JP2005148956A - Method for distributing information and program for information distribution process - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To quickly and efficiently distribute distribution information to be distributed to an unspecified number of communication devices within a communication system. <P>SOLUTION: The communication devices 1 disposed on vehicles 30 or facilities 31 are connected together by P2P communications to distribute distribution information such as messages and update programs. On receiving the distribution information, each communication device distributes the distribution information to still another communication device, thus allowing the distribution information to be spread among the plurality of communication devices. In particular, the communication device mounted on a moving body such as a vehicle searches for another communication device to which the distribution information is to be distributed as the vehicle moves, and distributes the distribution information to another communication device similarly mounted on a vehicle, thus quickly and efficiently distributing messages such as recall information, advertising information and regional traffic regulation information and programs for correcting systems or applications. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2005,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to an information distribution method and an information distribution processing program for distributing information via communication, and in particular, information via wireless communication using a communication device mounted on a moving body such as a vehicle. The present invention relates to an information distribution method and an information distribution processing program for distributing information.

  In recent years, in-vehicle devices mounted on mobile bodies such as vehicles, mobile phones that can be easily carried, and portable terminals such as PDAs and notebook PCs have become multifunctional and highly functional. Possible communication means are being provided. Such communication means enables mobile communication devices such as in-vehicle devices, mobile phones, and mobile terminals to always obtain new information through the external network.

  For example, the following Patent Document 1 discloses a service providing system and an in-vehicle computer system that can easily and quickly provide vehicle repair service information such as extraction of a recalled vehicle, contact with the owner, or version upgrade. A vehicle information distribution system and method thereof are disclosed. According to the technique disclosed in Patent Document 1, vehicle information such as vehicle recall information is mounted on a vehicle from an information center computer system installed in the information center through the Internet, a satellite line, or the like. When the vehicle is distributed to the in-vehicle computer system and the in-vehicle computer system determines that the own vehicle corresponds to the vehicle specified by the vehicle information, the service related to the specified vehicle is provided from the computer system for the service providing center. Will come to be.

Further, for example, in Patent Document 2 below, for example, a terminal device mounted on a vehicle receives a data group or a program group distributed from a software distribution station through a satellite line or the like, and the received data group or program group Disclosed is a software distribution system and a software receiving terminal device that enable updating after determining a necessary data group or program group after determining a necessary data group or program group. Yes.
Japanese Patent Laying-Open No. 2003-101552 (FIG. 1, paragraphs 0020 to 0035) JP 2001-67232 A (FIGS. 1 to 11, paragraphs 0010 to 0065)

  However, in the technique described in Patent Document 1, vehicle information to be distributed by a centrally managed information center computer system is accumulated, and pull-type distribution (of an in-vehicle computer system is performed in response to a request from the in-vehicle computer system). Vehicle information is distributed by a user actively acquiring information). Therefore, for example, in order to quickly distribute vehicle information to a large number of vehicles (in-vehicle computer system), the information center computer system is made to have high performance so that it can withstand the load of distribution of vehicle information to a large number of vehicles. Alternatively, it is necessary to install a plurality of information center computer systems, which increases costs and maintenance burdens. In addition, distribution of important vehicle information may be stopped due to a malfunction of the information center computer system.

  In the technique described in Patent Document 2, a data group or a program group is collectively distributed (broadcasted) from a centralized software distribution station to a terminal device. Therefore, not only the distribution processing load at the software distribution station is large, but also the communication traffic load is increased. Furthermore, in the case of a terminal device mounted on a vehicle, a target vehicle that is in a non-operating state cannot receive these data when distributing a data group or a program group from a software distribution station. As a result, the software distribution station needs to distribute the same data many times.

  As described above, when a centralized management server (information center computer system or software distribution station) is used, rapid information distribution is not possible, and the cost of the centralized management server and the burden of maintenance management, etc. There are various problems such as a large point, a communication cost for information distribution, and a large load of communication traffic.

  In view of the above problems, the present invention provides an information distribution method and an information distribution processing program capable of quickly and efficiently distributing distribution information to be distributed to an unspecified number of communication devices in a communication system. With the goal.

In order to achieve the above object, the information distribution method of the present invention receives distribution information from an arbitrary communication device and stores it in a predetermined distribution information storage means, and the distribution information stored in the distribution information storage means, An information distribution method in a communication device that distributes to a communication device that is different from the communication device that received the distribution information,
A distribution information receiving step of receiving the distribution information from the arbitrary communication device via a connection by P2P communication;
A distribution information storage step of storing the distribution information in the distribution information storage means;
A communication partner searching step for searching for the communication partner device capable of communication through a predetermined communication means;
A communication establishment step of establishing a connection by P2P communication through the predetermined communication means with the counterpart communication device discovered in the communication counterpart search step;
A condition inquiry step for inquiring whether or not a predetermined condition is satisfied for the counterpart communication device connected in the communication establishment step;
A distribution information transmission step of transmitting the distribution information to the counterpart communication device when the counterpart communication device satisfies the predetermined condition;
Have.
With the above configuration, distribution information to be distributed can be received from an arbitrary communication device via a connection by P2P communication, and the distribution information can be distributed to other communication devices. Distribution information to be distributed can be distributed quickly and efficiently to an unspecified number of communication devices.

Furthermore, in addition to the information distribution method described above, the information distribution method of the present invention, when the distribution information received in the distribution information reception step is a message, sends the content of the message to the user of the communication device. An informing step for informing;
If the distribution information received in the distribution information receiving step is a program, a program update step for updating the program to be updated by the program,
Have.
With the above configuration, distribution information such as messages and update programs or correction programs can be distributed quickly and efficiently to an unspecified number of communication devices in the communication system.

Furthermore, in the information distribution method of the present invention, in addition to the information distribution method, the predetermined communication means is a wireless communication means, and the communication device changes a relative positional relationship with a predetermined position on the ground. It is configured to communicate.
With the above configuration, it is possible to distribute distribution information using a communication device mounted on a mobile body such as a mobile phone, a mobile terminal, or a vehicle having wireless communication means.

Furthermore, in the information distribution method of the present invention, in addition to the information distribution method described above, the predetermined communication means is mounted on a vehicle.
With the above configuration, in particular, it is possible to distribute distribution information by using an in-vehicle communication device, a communication device linked with an in-vehicle navigation system, or a communication device integrated with an in-vehicle navigation system. .

In order to achieve the above object, the information distribution method of the present invention is an information distribution method in a communication apparatus having distribution information storage means for storing distribution information to be distributed to a counterpart communication apparatus that satisfies a predetermined condition. ,
A communication partner searching step for searching for the communication partner device capable of communication through a predetermined communication means;
A communication establishment step of establishing a connection by P2P communication through the predetermined communication means with the counterpart communication device discovered in the communication counterpart search step;
A condition inquiry step for inquiring whether or not the predetermined condition is satisfied with respect to the counterpart communication device connected in the communication establishment step;
A distribution information transmission step of transmitting the distribution information to the counterpart communication device when the counterpart communication device satisfies the predetermined condition;
The communication device is mounted on the vehicle selected in advance from a specific type of vehicle, and is configured to use short-range wireless communication means as the predetermined communication means.
With the above configuration, for example, a communication device installed in a specific type of vehicle such as a taxi, a truck, a bus, etc. that has a long operating time, moves around a wide range, and has a great opportunity to approach other vehicles is distributed. As the information distribution source, the distribution device distributes the distribution information through the short-range wireless communication device, so that the distribution information can be quickly distributed to an unspecified number of communication devices. Distribution information can be spread explosively to a large number of communication devices existing in the system.

Furthermore, in addition to the information distribution method described above, the information distribution method according to the present invention includes the distribution stored in the communication device when the distribution information is transmitted to the counterpart communication device in the distribution information transmission step. A transmission history management step of adding identification information of the counterpart communication device to a transmission history list in which a transmission history of information is described;
An identification information acquisition step of acquiring the identification information of the counterpart communication device from the counterpart communication device connected in the communication establishment step;
The identification inquiring step is configured to perform the condition inquiry step only for the counterpart communication device whose identification information acquired in the identification information acquiring step does not exist in the transmission history list.
With the above configuration, it is possible to prevent the distribution information from being sent to the other communication device that has distributed the same distribution information in the past, and the distribution information can be efficiently transmitted without increasing communication traffic unnecessarily. Distribution is possible.

Furthermore, in the information distribution method of the present invention, in addition to the information distribution method described above, in the condition inquiry step, the distribution information is not yet distributed to the counterpart communication device, and the distribution information is the counterpart communication. One or a combination of the information corresponding to the distribution information possessed by the device, the distribution information being suitable for the type or setting condition of the counterpart communication device, or the combination thereof. It is configured to inquire as a predetermined condition.
With the above configuration, a communication device whose distribution information has not yet been distributed, a communication device that has not yet acquired the latest distribution information, and a communication device having a type and setting conditions suitable for using the distribution information Distribution information can be distributed only to communication devices that satisfy the conditions such as the distribution information, and distribution information can be efficiently distributed without increasing communication traffic unnecessarily.

Furthermore, the information distribution method of the present invention includes, in addition to the above information distribution method, a distribution condition reference step for referring to a distribution condition related to the distribution information;
A distribution process control step for controlling not to perform the communication partner search step for searching for the partner communication device to be distributed of the distribution information when the distribution condition relating to the distribution information is not satisfied,
Have.
With the above configuration, a communication device having distribution information to be distributed can determine whether or not distribution information distribution processing is possible according to distribution conditions related to distribution information.

Further, in addition to the above information distribution method, the information distribution method of the present invention includes any one of the distribution information distribution possible number, transmission possible number, distribution time, and distribution place / region as the distribution condition. Or it is comprised so that those combinations may be utilized.
With the above configuration, a communication device having distribution information to be distributed can be distributed a maximum number of times (maximum number of communication devices to which distribution information can be directly distributed from one communication device). Frequency), possible transmission times (maximum number of times to specify how many times distribution information is allowed to be distributed), time related to distribution (e.g., due date for distribution and time zone where distribution is possible), location / region (target location) It is possible to determine whether or not to perform distribution processing of distribution information in accordance with (distribution to a communication device existing in the area).

Furthermore, the information distribution method of the present invention selects the predetermined communication means from the plurality of different communication means when the communication apparatus has a plurality of different communication means in addition to the information distribution method described above. A communication means selection step.
With the above configuration, a communication device having distribution information to be distributed can distribute distribution information by selecting a communication unit from a plurality of communication units according to an arbitrary or predetermined setting.

Furthermore, the information distribution method of the present invention includes, in addition to the above information distribution method, a communication means reference step for referring to a condition for specifying the communication means related to the distribution information;
In the communication means selection step, the communication means related to the condition referred to in the communication means reference step is selected as the predetermined communication means.
With the above configuration, a communication device having distribution information to be distributed can select different communication means according to the distribution information to be distributed when distributing the distribution information.

Furthermore, in the information distribution method of the present invention, in addition to the information distribution method described above, the predetermined communication means is set based on priorities preset in the plurality of different communication means in the communication means selection step. Configured to select.
With the above configuration, a communication device having distribution information to be distributed can select a communication unit to be used for distribution of distribution information according to the selection order of a plurality of communication units. Distribution information can be distributed with priority.

Furthermore, in the information distribution method of the present invention, in addition to the information distribution method described above, distribution conditions relating to distribution of the distribution information in each of the plurality of different communication means are set, and in the communication means selection step, When a distribution condition relating to distribution of the distribution information in one of the plurality of different communication units is not satisfied, the communication unit having the next lower priority is set as the predetermined communication unit. Is configured to select as.
With the above configuration, a communication apparatus having distribution information to be distributed can select a plurality of communication means in stages.

  Further, according to the present invention, there is provided an information distribution processing program for executing the above information distribution method by a computer.

  The present invention provides an information distribution method and an information distribution processing program having the above-described configuration, and can distribute distribution information to be distributed to an unspecified number of communication devices in a communication system quickly and efficiently. It has the effect of becoming

<Outline of the present invention>
Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. First, the outline of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram schematically showing the flow of distribution information by the information distribution method according to the embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 1, a plurality of vehicles (moving bodies) 30 that can freely move around, a facility 31 such as a gas station or a parking lot fixedly installed at a specific position, a vehicle 30 and a facility 31 are arranged. A communication device 1 is shown. In order to make the explanation of the operation described later easier to understand, the two vehicles 30 existing in the dotted area α in the center of FIG. 1 may be referred to as a host vehicle 30a and a partner vehicle 30b, respectively. The communication device 1 arranged in the counterpart vehicle 30b may be referred to as the own vehicle side communication device 1a and the counterpart side communication device 1b, respectively.

  The communication device 1 searches for another communicable device 1 and establishes connection by P2P (Peer to Peer) communication. The distribution condition of information (distribution information) and the reception condition in the communication device 1 on the receiving side are When predetermined conditions are satisfied, distribution information such as messages and programs can be distributed to the communication device 1 on the receiving side. Similarly, the communication device 1 that has received the distribution information can search for another communication device 1 and distribute the distribution information.

FIG. 1 also shows an example of the flow (transmission path) of distribution information distributed from the communication device 1 of the vehicle 30 described as the distribution source as described above. The distribution information is distributed from the communication device 1 of the distribution source vehicle 30 to each of the communication devices 1 of the three vehicles 30 via the transmission paths T ₁ , T ₄ , and T _6. The communication device 1 can store and use distribution information.

At this time, if predetermined conditions relating to distribution of distribution information are satisfied, for example, as shown in transmission paths T ₂ , T ₃ , transmission path T ₅ , transmission path T ₇ , and transmission path T _8. The communication device 1 that has received the distribution information can distribute the distribution information to another communication device 1.

  The distribution information is stored in the communication device 1 as a distribution source by any method. For example, a non-volatile memory or CD-ROM storing the distribution information can be read by the communication device 1 as a distribution source, An example is a method of distributing distribution information from an information distribution server (not shown) to a distribution-source communication device 1 through an arbitrary communication network. In addition, as the vehicle 30 equipped with the communication device 1 as a distribution source, it is desirable to use a specific type of vehicle 30 that has a long operation time and moves around a wide range, such as a taxi, a truck, and a bus. As a result, the distribution information can be quickly distributed to a large number of communication devices 1, and the distribution information spreads explosively to the large number of communication devices 1 existing in the information distribution system. In particular, the communication device 1 mounted on a taxi or bus moving to a specific location / area to be distributed, a long-distance truck moving toward the specific location / area to be distributed, etc. By selecting it as the device 1, it is possible to efficiently distribute distribution information according to various purposes. In FIG. 1, the distribution source communication device 1 is installed in the vehicle 30, but the distribution source communication device 1 can also be installed in a facility 31. In this case, the communication device 1 is installed. It is desirable to install the distribution source communication device 1 in a facility 31 such as a gas station or a parking lot where the collected vehicles 30 can easily gather. Also in this case, distribution information can be quickly and explosively distributed to a large number of communication devices 1 in the same manner as when a specific type of vehicle is used as the communication device 1 as a distribution source.

<Configuration of communication device 1>
Next, the internal configuration of the communication device 1 installed in the vehicle 30 or the facility 31 in FIG. 1 will be described. FIG. 2 is a block diagram schematically showing the internal configuration of the communication apparatus that implements the information distribution method according to the embodiment of the present invention. 2 includes a control unit 11, a display unit 12, a voice output unit 13, a communication unit 14, a communication means selection unit 15, a distribution condition inquiry unit 16, an information reference unit 17, a distribution information storage unit 18, and a distribution. Each component of the condition storage unit 19, the transmission history list storage unit 20, and the state list storage unit 21 has a configuration connected by an internal bus 25.

  The block diagram shown in FIG. 2 schematically represents each function of the communication device 1. For example, each of the control unit 11, the communication means selection unit 15, the distribution condition inquiry unit 16, the information reference unit 17, and the like. The function can also be realized by a program that can be executed by a CPU (Central Processing Unit). In this case, a program according to the present invention (for example, a program for performing each process of FIGS. 3 to 5 described later) is a ROM (ROM: Read Only Memory) and a RAM (RAM: Random Access Memory) in the communication device 1. ), Stored in a hard disk or the like, and read out and processed by the CPU as necessary.

  The control unit 11 is a unit that performs integrated control such as reading / writing of data between the components and manages the operation of the communication apparatus 1. The display unit 12 and the audio output unit 13 are notification means for visually or audibly informing the user of information, and can be realized by an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), a speaker, or the like. In addition, the communication unit 14 is a communication unit for performing connection with another communication apparatus 1 by P2P communication using a predetermined method. A plurality of different communication means (three first communication units 14a to 14c are illustrated in FIG. 2) may be arranged in one communication device 1. Moreover, the communication means selection part 15 is a means which can selectively switch the communication part 14 which communicates, when the communication part 14 exists in multiple numbers.

  The distribution condition inquiry unit 16 is a means for making an inquiry to another communication apparatus 1 connected by P2P communication as to whether or not a predetermined condition that can be a distribution information distribution destination is satisfied. . Moreover, the information reference part 17 is a means for reading desired information from each storage part 18-21, and reading the content of information.

  The distribution information storage unit 18 is means for storing distribution information to be distributed to other communication devices 1. The distribution condition storage unit 19 is means for storing distribution condition information in which various conditions relating to distribution of distribution information are set. The transmission history list storage unit 20 is a means for storing distribution history information (transmission history list) such as information for identifying a distribution information distribution destination. The status list storage unit 21 is a means for storing information (status list) that makes it possible to grasp the usage history of distribution information and the status relating to the current distribution information. The information stored in each of the storage units 18 to 21 is classified for convenience in order to clarify the explanation, and the classification method of information actually used can be arbitrarily set. In FIG. 2, the storage units 18 to 21 are separately illustrated, but each of the storage units 18 to 21 can be realized by, for example, one hard disk.

  Hereinafter, the distribution information, distribution condition information, transmission history list, and status list stored in the distribution information storage unit 18, the distribution condition storage unit 19, the transmission history list storage unit 20, and the status list storage unit 21 will be described in order. I do.

  First, distribution information stored in the distribution information storage unit 18 will be described. Distribution information can be broadly classified into two types: messages and programs. The message is information to be notified to the user, such as vehicle recall information, advertisement information, and regional traffic regulation information. Therefore, the message is useful when the content is notified to the user, and after the message is notified to the user, the message is classified as information that is highly likely to reduce the use value or the storage value. It is also possible.

  The program is, for example, an update program for a system or application stored in advance in the communication device 1, a database used by a predetermined system or application (for example, a map database that can be used in an in-vehicle navigation system), or the like. This program is used to modify systems and applications and update to the latest information. Therefore, the program can be classified as information that improves the usefulness of the system or application.

  Next, distribution condition information stored in the distribution condition storage unit 19 will be described. The distribution condition information is information for defining various conditions related to distribution of each distribution information. The conditions relating to distribution of distribution information include, for example, the number of times distribution information can be distributed, the maximum number of transmissions, the time related to distribution, the location / area of distribution, the communication unit 14 used for distribution, the distribution target, and the form of use. It is done.

The distribution possible number of times is the maximum number of times that the communication device 1 on the transmission side can directly distribute to the communication device 1 on the reception side, that is, distribution from one communication device 1 to how many communication devices 1 This is the maximum number of times that specifies whether information can be distributed directly. Further, the number of possible transmissions is the maximum number that specifies how many distributions (the number of communication apparatuses 1 ahead) are permitted. That is, the hierarchy when the flow of information distribution is considered in a tree shape It shows the depth of. Therefore, in a certain communication device 1, for example, when the distribution information can be distributed four times and the distribution information can be transmitted three times, the distribution information distributed from a certain communication device 1 is: It is distributed to Σ4 ⁱ (i = 1 to 3) = 84 communication devices 1 at the maximum. Note that a value from 0 to infinity is set as the number of distributions and the number of transmissions.

  In addition, the time related to the above distribution is a distribution deadline (for example, indefinitely, until 10 pm on October 8, 2003, within 10 hours after storing the distribution information), or a time slot for distribution (for example, , All day, time zone from 10 am to 6 pm, Saturday and Sunday, etc.). The distribution place / area is a distribution place (for example, Japan, Tokyo, Shibuya-ku, etc.) or a distribution area (for example, the vicinity of Tokyo Tower, the vicinity of Shibuya Station, etc.). The communication unit 14 used for the above distribution includes, for example, millimeter wave communication means, Bluetooth communication means, infrared communication means, DSRC (Dedicated Short Range Communications) communication means, wireless LAN (local area network) : Local Area Network) Information for designating the communication unit 14 used for distribution of distribution information from various communication units 14 such as communication means and mobile phone network connection means. The use of narrow-to-vehicle communication and wide-to-vehicle communication can also be defined by this information. It is also possible to define the priority order of the communication unit 14 to be used.

  In addition, the distribution information distribution count may be set by combining the distribution information distribution count, transmission count, distribution time, distribution location / area, and conditions of the communication unit 14 used for distribution. Is possible. For example, as a condition relating to the distribution of certain distribution information, the priority order related to the selection of the communication unit 14 is set in the order of the millimeter wave communication means and the DSRC communication means. Infinite number of transmissions possible, distribution time all day, distribution place / area in Tokyo, DSRC communication means 3 distributions, 3 transmissions, distribution from 1 am to 1 am Until 5 o'clock, it is possible to set the location / area to be distributed around Shibuya Station. In this case, in the communication device 1 having both the millimeter wave communication means and the DSRC communication means, when the distribution information distribution by the millimeter wave communication means reaches 10 times, the distribution by the millimeter wave communication means becomes impossible. The distribution information can be distributed three times by the DSRC communication means. Further, in the communication device 1 having only one of the millimeter wave communication means and the DSRC communication means, only the setting of the corresponding communication unit 14 is referred to, and neither the millimeter wave communication means nor the DSRC communication means is provided. In the communication device 1, it is desirable that distribution information cannot be distributed.

  The distribution information distribution count, transmission count, distribution time, distribution location / area, and conditions of the communication unit 14 used for distribution are mainly the communication on the transmission side when distributing the distribution information. This is a condition referenced by the device 1. When distributing the distribution information, the communication device 1 on the transmission side determines whether or not a distribution condition related to the distribution information is satisfied, and determines whether or not to perform the distribution operation. Since whether or not distribution information is distributed is determined based on each of the above-described conditions, each of these conditions serves as a propagation parameter for adjusting information propagation (information diffusion). Also have. That is, it is possible to adjust the propagation speed of information (the speed at which information is distributed) in the information distribution system according to the values set as the above-described conditions. In addition, in order to adjust the propagation speed of information more accurately, the number of distribution source communication devices 1 that are the origin of propagation of distribution information between the communication devices 1 and the vehicle on which the distribution source communication device 1 is mounted. It is desirable to consider the usage status of 30 (operating time and moving range of the vehicle 30).

  The distribution target among the conditions relating to distribution of distribution information is a condition for defining the type of distribution target to which distribution information is to be distributed, setting conditions, and the like. Depending on the conditions of the distribution target, for example, the communication device 1 mounted on the vehicle 30 having a specific vehicle type, year, and body number within a specific range, the communication device 1 manufactured in a specific period, and present in a specific area It is possible to set only a specific communication device 1 as a distribution target, such as the communication device 1 to be connected to or a communication device 1 mounted on a vehicle 30 heading for a specific destination.

  In the above description, an example of setting a distribution target that permits distribution is described. However, it is also possible to set a non-distribution target that does not permit distribution. In addition, it is desirable to set the communication device 1 that can use the distribution information as a distribution information distribution target, but the communication device 1 that cannot use the distribution information can also be set as a distribution target. In this case, the communication device 1 that cannot use the distribution information receives and stores the distribution information, and functions as a relay node that distributes the information to another communication device 1 without using the distribution information. Note that the conditions for distribution can also serve as a propagation parameter for distribution information.

  In addition, the usage mode among the conditions relating to the distribution of distribution information defines settings such as the type of distribution information and the processing method. For example, as a condition related to this usage mode, the distribution information is copied or moved at the time of distribution, and the notification method when the distribution information is distributed (notification that distribution information has been distributed is displayed. , Notification by voice, notification methods such as both notification and non-notification), distribution information type (message or program), distribution information deletion deadline (do not delete, delete 3 hours after receiving distribution information, on map) It is possible to set deletion methods such as deletion when leaving a specific area, deletion 30 minutes after distribution to another communication device 1, and deletion after the expiration date of distribution.

  The distribution condition information and the distribution information are stored in association with each other, and the other is stored so that the other can be referred to immediately by specifying either the distribution information or the distribution condition information. In FIG. 2, the distribution information and the distribution condition information are separately stored in the distribution information storage unit 18 and the distribution condition storage unit 19 in an associated state. As additional information, distribution information and distribution condition information can be combined into one piece of information. In this case, the distribution information storage unit 18 and the distribution condition storage unit 19 are the same.

  Next, the transmission history list stored in the transmission history list storage unit 20 will be described. In the transmission history list, when the communication device 1 distributes the distribution information, information for identifying the communication device 1 to which the distribution information is distributed is described. Information identifying the communication device 1 includes, for example, an IP (Internet Protocol) address, a MAC (Media Access Control) address of the communication device 1, a vehicle body number of the vehicle on which the communication device 1 is mounted, and the communication device 1 A unique ID number assigned to can be used.

  Next, the state list stored in the state list storage unit 21 will be described. The status list includes usage history information indicating the usage history of receiving and using distribution information, the number of times distribution information has been distributed to other communication devices 1, the number of times reception information has been received from other communication devices 1, and the like. It is described together with the identification information of the distribution information. The above-mentioned usage history information is the usage date / time, update date / time, version information, etc. of each distribution information. By referring to this usage history information, it is possible to grasp which distribution information was used and when. In addition, by adding the identification information of the communication device 1 that is the distribution source of the distribution information to the usage history described in this usage history information, the reception history information that can grasp the communication device 1 that is the distribution source is created. It is also possible to do.

<Operations related to information distribution>
Next, with reference to FIGS. 3 to 6, distribution information is distributed from the own vehicle side communication device 1a of the own vehicle 30a existing in the area α shown in FIG. 1 to the other party communication device 1b of the other vehicle 30b. when the operation in each of the (transmission paths T ₅₎ of the vehicle-side communication device 1a and the other communication device 1b, for data transmission between the vehicle-side communication device 1a and the other communication device 1b will be described. In the following description, the distribution information transmission side is the subject (self), and the distribution information reception side is the object (partner), so that the description of the operations of the distribution information transmission side and reception side can be clearly distinguished.

The storage in a previous stage, the vehicle-side communication device 1a has received the distribution information via a transmission path T ₄ showing the distribution source of the communication device 1 in FIG. 1, the pre-distribution information to the distribution information storing unit 18 Suppose you are. Also, distribution conditions are set in the distribution information, and the own vehicle side communication device 1a receives the distribution condition information related to the distribution information from the distribution source communication device 1 together with the distribution information, and distributes the distribution condition storage unit 19 Is stored.

  First, the operation of the vehicle-side communication device 1a when distributing distribution information will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing a flow of processing of the own vehicle side communication device in the embodiment of the present invention. The own vehicle side communication device 1a is activated when the ignition key of the vehicle 30a is turned on, and thereafter, the information reference unit 17 performs distribution condition information in the distribution condition storage unit 19 and states in the state list storage unit 21. Browse the list. At this time, when it is detected that certain distribution information (hereinafter referred to as information A) is in a state where it can be distributed to another communication device 1 (for example, the number of distributions has not reached the number of distributions possible) Distribution operation of information A is started.

  Subsequently, the own vehicle side communication device 1a uses the communication unit 14 set in the distribution condition information related to the information A to search for another communication device 1 existing within the communication range, and the partner side communication device 1b. Is found (step S101). If the partner communication device 1b is not found, the communication device 1 that can be the distribution partner of the information A is repeatedly searched.

  Next, the information reference unit 17 refers to the transmission history list stored in the transmission history list storage unit 20 (step S103), and has the information A been transmitted to the counterpart communication device 1b in the past? It is verified whether or not (step S105). In this step S105, when the identification information of the counterpart communication device 1b is found in the transmission history list (“Yes” in step S105), the own vehicle communication device 1a distributes the information A to the counterpart communication device 1b. The processing is stopped and the process proceeds to step S119.

  On the other hand, when it is confirmed that the identification information of the counterpart communication device 1b does not exist in the transmission history list ("No" in step S105), a predetermined connection process is performed with the counterpart communication device 1b, A connection for P2P communication is established (step S107). Then, the distribution condition inquiry unit 16 inquires of the counterpart communication device 1b whether or not the information A is necessary, and receives a response message to the inquiry from the counterpart communication device 1b (step S109). The details of the inquiry as to whether or not this information A is necessary will be described in the description of the processing (processing shown in FIG. 4) of the counterpart communication device 1b.

  After receiving the response message from the counterpart communication device 1b, the information reference unit 17 refers to this response message (step S111), and in the case of the response message notifying that the information A is not necessary (" No ”), the own-vehicle-side communication device 1a stops the distribution process of the information A to the counterpart-side communication device 1b, and proceeds to step S119.

  On the other hand, when the response message notifies that the information A is necessary ("Yes" in step S111), the vehicle side communication device 1a transmits the information A to the counterpart communication device 1b (step S111). S113). Then, as the partner to whom the information A is distributed, the partner communication device 1b (for example, identification information of the partner communication device 1b) is added to the transmission history list (step S115), and for example, the information A in the state list The number of distribution is incremented by 1, and the state list is updated (step S117). As a result, the vehicle side communication device 1a distributes the information A to the counterpart communication device 1b, leaves the counterpart communication device 1b that distributed the information A as a transmission history, and counts the number of times the information A is distributed. It becomes possible.

  After the distribution process of information A up to step S117 is completed, or after the distribution process of information A in step S105 or step S111 is stopped, the vehicle side communication device 1a determines the conditions related to the time related to the distribution, the condition of the number of distributions, etc. Then, it is confirmed whether or not the distribution condition related to the information A is satisfied (step S119). If the distribution condition is satisfied (“Yes” in step S119), the process returns to step S101 again to return to the information A The communication device 1 that is the distribution partner is searched. On the other hand, if the distribution condition is not satisfied (“NO” in step S119), all operations related to the distribution of information A are terminated.

  Next, referring to FIG. 4, upon receiving an inquiry (step S109 in FIG. 3) whether or not the information A is required from the own vehicle communication device 1a, the counterpart communication device when responding to this inquiry The operation 1b will be described. FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing a processing flow of the counterpart communication device when receiving an inquiry as to whether distribution information is necessary from the own vehicle communication device according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  In the previous stage, the counterpart communication device 1b has established a connection by P2P communication with the own vehicle communication device 1a (corresponding to S107 in FIG. 3), and information A is required by this P2P communication connection. Is received from the vehicle side communication device 1a (step S201). At this time, for example, an inquiry about whether the partner communication device 1b is a distribution target of the information A (step S203) and the information A have been used from the own vehicle communication device 1a to the partner communication device 1b. Inquiry (step S205) or the like is performed.

  In the inquiry as to whether or not the information A is to be distributed, for example, an inquiry is made as to whether or not the counterpart communication device 1b is a distribution target (distribution target in the distribution condition information) defined in the information A. Further, in the inquiry as to whether or not the information A has been used, for example, whether or not there is a usage history remaining after receiving and using the information A in the usage history information in the status list of the counterpart communication device 1b. Or when the information A is an update program, the version information of the program to be updated is compared.

  In response to these inquiries, if the partner communication device 1b is to be distributed and the information A has never been used ("Yes" in step S203 and "No" in step S205), the partner It is determined that the information A is necessary information for the side communication device 1b, and a response message notifying that the information A is necessary is set (step S207). On the other hand, if the counterpart communication device 1b is not a distribution target or if the information A has been used ("No" in step S203 or "Yes" in step S205), the counterpart communication device 1b Therefore, it is determined that information A is not necessary information, and a response message notifying that information is not necessary is set (step S209). And the other party communication apparatus 1b transmits the response message for notifying whether the information A is required to the own vehicle side communication apparatus 1a (step S211).

  When the own vehicle side communication device 1a receives a response message notifying that the information A is not necessary from the other side communication device 1b, the own vehicle side communication device 1a receives the information as described with reference to FIG. Cancel the distribution process of A. On the other hand, when the own vehicle side communication device 1a receives a response message notifying that the information A is necessary from the other side communication device 1b, the own vehicle side communication device 1a performs the process of step S113 in FIG. Information A is transmitted to the counterpart communication device 1b.

  Next, with reference to FIG. 5, the operation of the counterpart communication device 1b when the information A is received from the own vehicle communication device 1a will be described. FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing a processing flow of the counterpart communication device when distribution information is received from the own vehicle communication device in the embodiment of the present invention.

  The counterpart communication device 1b that has transmitted a response message notifying that the information A is necessary subsequently receives the information A from the own vehicle communication device 1a and stores the information A in the distribution information storage unit 18 ( Step S301). It is desirable that the distribution condition information related to the information A is distributed along with the distribution of the information A.

  As described above, the information A can be broadly classified into two types, that is, a message and a program, and the processing of the counterpart communication device 1b varies depending on which category the information A belongs to. For example, the information reference unit 17 of the counterpart communication device 1b refers to the information A itself, or refers to the description of the type of distribution information in the distribution condition information, so that the information A received in step S301 is a message. Whether it is a message or a program (step S303). Note that the classification method of information A is arbitrary, and there are cases where information A does not belong to either a message or a program, or cases where classification is difficult. It is desirable to appropriately perform processing suitable for the above.

  When it is determined that the information A is a message (“Yes” in step S303), the counterpart communication device 1b notifies the user of the message from the display unit 12 or the voice output unit 13 (step S305). . On the other hand, when it is determined that the information A is a program (“No” in step S303), the program to be updated is updated with the information A (step S307).

  The counterpart communication device 1b notifies that the information A has been notified when the information A (message) is notified, and the latest version information updated by the information A when the information A (program) is updated. Are added to the usage history information in the status list together with the reception date and time of the information A, the identification information of the transmission apparatus 1a (step S309). At this time, it is also necessary to decrement the possible number of transmissions in the distribution condition information related to information A, add the identification information of the transmission device's own vehicle side communication device 1a, and increment the number of receptions related to the distribution information in the status list. Is done according to.

  Further, after using the information A and storing the information A in the distribution information storage unit 18, the counterpart communication device 1 b can further search the communication device 1 to be newly distributed and distribute the information A. Is possible. By this operation, the information A propagates from one communication device 1 to another communication device 1, and the information A spreads in the communication system.

  FIG. 6 is a sequence chart showing data transmission between the own vehicle communication device and the counterpart communication device in the embodiment of the present invention. As can be seen from FIG. 6, between the own vehicle side communication device 1a and the other party communication device 1b, first, a connection by P2P communication is established, and then the own vehicle side communication device 1a communicates with the other party communication device 1b. An inquiry is made as to whether information A is necessary. The information A is distributed only when a response message to the inquiry is returned from the counterpart communication device 1b to the own vehicle communication device 1a and a predetermined distribution condition is satisfied. In addition, after distribution of the information A, the connection by the P2P communication between the own vehicle side communication device 1a and the counterpart side communication device 1b may be disconnected or may be maintained as it is. Also, using the connection established for the distribution of information A, the own vehicle side communication device 1a to the other party communication device 1b, or the other party communication device 1b to the own vehicle side communication device 1a, Another distribution information distribution operation may be performed continuously.

  In the above description, the distribution information has unique distribution condition information. For example, the distribution information can be distributed, the number of transmissions, the distribution time, the distribution location / area, and the communication used for distribution. Although the case where each condition such as the section 14 (including the setting related to the priority order of the communication section), the distribution target, and the usage form is set in the distribution information has been described, these distribution conditions are set in each communication device 1 It is also possible to do. That is, in this case, each communication device 1 defines conditions such as the number of times of distribution, the number of times of transmission, the time related to distribution, the location / area of distribution, the communication means used for distribution, the distribution target, and the form of use. Then, each communication device 1 performs the distribution information distribution operation while observing the conditions set for itself. Note that some distribution conditions may be defined in the distribution condition information, and other distribution conditions may be defined in each communication device 1.

  Further, when the distribution condition defined by the distribution condition information and the distribution condition defined in the communication device 1 conflict (for example, the distribution condition information indicates that the number of distributions is five, but the communication device 1 For example, when the number of distributions specified in 2 is 2), it is specified in advance which distribution condition is prioritized, or a flag is set in the distribution condition information. Accordingly, it is desirable to pre-determine which distribution conditions have priority. It is also possible to give the authority to ignore a part or all of the above distribution conditions to a specific communication device 1 (for example, the communication device 1 installed in a facility 31 such as a gas station). .

  In addition, the communication device 1 mounted on a mobile body such as the vehicle 30 can be linked with the in-vehicle navigation system to share and exchange data. Further, the communication device 1 and the in-vehicle navigation system can be integrated. In the case of an integrated configuration, for example, a program for performing each process of FIGS. 3 to 5 is installed in the in-vehicle navigation system, and the program is executed by the CPU in the in-vehicle navigation system. It is also possible to realize such a communication device 1.

  In the above description, either or both of the communication device 1 on the distribution information transmission side and the communication device 1 on the distribution information reception side are mounted on a moving body such as the vehicle 30 and exist on the ground. The case where wireless communication can be performed while changing the relative positional relationship with the reference point when a predetermined point is used as a reference is described. However, the communication device 1 on the transmission side of the distribution information and the reception side of the distribution information Both of the communication devices 1 can be fixed (the positional relationship with the reference point is hardly changed). For example, a PC (Personal Computer) connected to a communication network such as the Internet by wire can be said to be the fixed communication device 1 described above. That is, according to the present invention, for example, a correction program related to an OS (Operating System) installed on a PC or an application can be distributed by connection between user-level PCs using P2P communication.

  Further, it is possible to allow the user himself / herself to set distribution conditions for distribution information by using an operation means (not shown) of the communication apparatus 1. In order to avoid the setting of receiving distribution information but not performing distribution at all, for example, the balance between the number of distributions and the number of receptions described in the status list is (number of distributions−number of receptions). In the case of <0, the communication device 1 can be configured to be unable to receive distribution information. It is also possible to perform point conversion based on the number of times of distribution and the number of times of reception and to discount communication costs according to these points.

  Further, as described in the description of the communication device 1 shown in FIG. 2, the present invention can be realized by a program executable by a computer, and further, moves within a plurality of communication devices 1 connected by a communication network. Thus, it can be realized by a program called a mobile agent capable of autonomously acquiring information.

<Priority order related to selection of communication unit 14>
Next, the priority when the communication means selection unit 15 selects a plurality of communication units 14 and the connection form by using various communication units 14 will be described with reference to FIGS. As described above, for example, the host vehicle side communication device 1a selects a predetermined communication unit 14 in accordance with a predetermined priority order, and then searches for the partner side communication device 1b and performs connection by P2P communication.

  As described above, the communication unit 14 includes various types such as millimeter wave communication means, Bluetooth communication means, infrared communication means, DSRC communication means, wireless LAN communication means, and cellular phone network connection means. When setting the priority of these communication units 14, the priority of the communication unit 14 with a small number of connectable units by communication is set high, and the priority of the communication unit 14 with a wide range and a large number of connectable units is set low. It is desirable.

Among the various communication units 14 described above, the communication unit 14 that has a relatively small communication area is an example of the communication unit 14 that has a small number of units that can be connected by communication and can be given high priority. Specifically, short-range wireless communication means such as millimeter wave communication means, Bluetooth communication means, infrared communication means, and wireless LAN communication means (ad hoc mode). FIG. 7 is a diagram schematically showing a state in which communication devices in the embodiment of the present invention are connected by direct communication between vehicles. As illustrated in FIG. 7, when the communication unit 14 having a high priority is used, the communication devices 1 can be directly connected to each other by wireless communication between vehicles (between the communication devices 1). In this specification, this connection form is referred to as inter-vehicle direct communication. In this case, distribution information can be distributed (transmission path T ₁₁ ) in a state where the communication apparatuses 1 are connected one-to-one, and in addition, an ad hoc communication area (ad hoc) formed by a plurality of communication apparatuses 1 is used. (Network) 51, distribution information distribution (transmission path T ₁₂ ) by multi-hop communication using the communication device 1 as a relay device is also possible.

Further, as the communication unit 14 to be given a lower priority than the communication unit 14 capable of forming a direct connection or an ad hoc network by one-to-one, a communication unit 14 having a medium communication area can be cited. Specifically, DSRC communication means, wireless LAN communication means (infrastructure mode), and the like. FIG. 8 is a diagram schematically showing a state in which communication apparatuses in the embodiment of the present invention are connected by inter-vehicle narrow area communication. The communication device 1 having these communication units 14 performs wireless communication with a DSRC antenna 61 connected to a DSRC system (road-to-vehicle system) and a wireless LAN base station 62 connected to a wireless LAN network. System) and other communication devices 1 connected to the wireless LAN system can distribute the distribution information via P2P communication (transmission paths T _{21 to} T ₂₃ ), and further, an IP network or a dedicated line ( It is also possible to distribute distribution information (transmission path T ₂₄ ) to the communication apparatus 1 connected to the IP network / private line 63). In this specification, this connection form is referred to as inter-vehicle narrow area communication.

Moreover, as the communication unit 14 to which the lowest priority is to be given, there is a mobile phone network connection means having a relatively wide communication area. FIG. 9 is a diagram schematically showing a state in which communication apparatuses in the embodiment of the present invention are connected by inter-vehicle wide area communication. The communication device 1 having this mobile phone network communication means is connected to a mobile phone base station 71 having a wide communication area, and distributes (transmits) distribution information to other communication devices 1 via the IP network / dedicated line 72. It is possible to take the path T ₃₁ ). In this specification, this connection form is referred to as inter-vehicle wide area communication.

  As described above, the priority order of the communication unit 14 tends to correspond to the order of the connection modes of the inter-vehicle direct communication, the inter-vehicle narrow area communication, and the inter-vehicle wide area communication. That is, it is desirable that the priority order of the communication unit 14 is set so as to decrease in the order of inter-vehicle direct communication, inter-vehicle narrow area communication, and inter-vehicle wide area communication. In addition, the number of connectable communication devices 1 increases dramatically in the order of inter-vehicle direct communication, inter-vehicle narrow area communication, and inter-vehicle wide area communication. In particular, when inter-vehicle wide area communication is used, a communication apparatus that can be connected by P2P communication. The number of 1s is enormous. Therefore, it is desirable to provide a certain degree of restriction regarding the distribution conditions related to the mobile phone network communication means for wide-area communication between vehicles.

  For example, distribution information is distributed after the communication device 1 on the transmission side makes a direct call to the communication device 1 on the reception side using a mobile phone network communication means and forcibly connects one-to-one. It is also possible to perform. As described above, there is a method of using the communication unit 14 that exceeds the correspondence between each communication unit 14 and the connection form described above, and regarding the method of using the communication unit 14, a priority order is separately set as an exception. Is desirable.

  An information distribution method and an information distribution processing program according to the present invention enable distribution of distribution information to be distributed to an unspecified number of communication devices in a communication system quickly and efficiently. Applicable in the technical field for distribution, and in particular, applicable in the technical field for distributing information via wireless communication using a communication device mounted on a moving body such as a vehicle. .

It is a schematic diagram which shows typically the flow of the distribution information by the information distribution method of embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows typically the internal structure of the communication apparatus which implement | achieves the information distribution method of embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of a process of the own vehicle side communication apparatus in embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of a process of the other party communication apparatus at the time of receiving the inquiry whether distribution information is required from the own vehicle side communication apparatus in embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of a process of the other party communication apparatus at the time of receiving distribution information from the own vehicle side communication apparatus in embodiment of this invention. It is a sequence chart which shows the data transmission between the own vehicle side communication apparatus and the other party communication apparatus in embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows typically a mode that the communication apparatuses in embodiment of this invention are connected by vehicle-to-vehicle direct communication. It is a figure which shows typically a mode that the communication apparatuses in embodiment of this invention are connected by the narrow area communication between vehicles. It is a figure which shows typically a mode that the communication apparatuses in embodiment of this invention are connected by vehicle-to-vehicle wide area communication.

Explanation of symbols

1 communication device 1a own vehicle side communication device (communication device)
1b Counterpart communication device (communication device)
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 11 Control part 12 Display part 13 Audio | voice output part 14 Communication part 14a 1st communication part 14b 2nd communication part 14c 3rd communication part 15 Communication means selection part 16 Distribution condition inquiry part 17 Information reference part 18 Distribution information storage part 19 Distribution conditions Storage unit 20 Transmission history list storage unit 21 State list storage unit 25 Internal bus 30 Vehicle (moving body)
30a Own vehicle (vehicle)
30b Opponent vehicle (vehicle)
31 facilities 51 ad hoc communication area (ad hoc network)
61 DSRC antenna 62 wireless LAN base station 71 the mobile phone base station 63 and 72 IP network / private line _{T 1 ~T 8, T 11,} T 12, T 21 ~T 24, T 31 transmission paths

Claims (14)

Receiving distribution information from an arbitrary communication device and storing it in a predetermined distribution information storage unit, and the other side communication device different from the communication device receiving the distribution information, the distribution information stored in the distribution information storage unit An information distribution method in a communication device distributed to
A distribution information receiving step of receiving the distribution information from the arbitrary communication device via a connection by P2P communication;
A distribution information storage step of storing the distribution information in the distribution information storage means;
A communication partner searching step for searching for the communication partner device capable of communication through a predetermined communication means;
A communication establishment step of establishing a connection by P2P communication through the predetermined communication means with the counterpart communication device discovered in the communication counterpart search step;
A condition inquiry step for inquiring whether or not a predetermined condition is satisfied for the counterpart communication device connected in the communication establishment step;
A distribution information transmission step of transmitting the distribution information to the counterpart communication device when the counterpart communication device satisfies the predetermined condition;
Information distribution method. If the distribution information received in the distribution information receiving step is a message, a notification step of notifying the user of the communication device of the content of the message;
If the distribution information received in the distribution information receiving step is a program, a program update step for updating the program to be updated by the program,
The information distribution method according to claim 1.   The information distribution method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the predetermined communication unit is a wireless communication unit, and the communication device performs communication while changing a relative positional relationship with a predetermined position on the ground. .   The information distribution method according to claim 3, wherein the predetermined communication means is mounted on a vehicle. An information distribution method in a communication apparatus having distribution information storage means for storing distribution information to be distributed to a counterpart communication apparatus that satisfies a predetermined condition,
A communication partner searching step for searching for the communication partner device capable of communication through a predetermined communication means;
A communication establishment step of establishing a connection by P2P communication through the predetermined communication means with the counterpart communication device discovered in the communication counterpart search step;
A condition inquiry step for inquiring whether or not the predetermined condition is satisfied with respect to the counterpart communication device connected in the communication establishment step;
A distribution information transmission step of transmitting the distribution information to the counterpart communication device when the counterpart communication device satisfies the predetermined condition;
An information distribution method, wherein the communication device is mounted on the vehicle selected in advance from a specific type of vehicle, and is configured to use short-range wireless communication means as the predetermined communication means . When the distribution information is transmitted to the counterpart communication device in the distribution information transmission step, the counterpart communication device is identified in a transmission history list in which a transmission history of the distribution information stored in the communication device is described. Send history management step to add information,
An identification information acquisition step of acquiring the identification information of the counterpart communication device from the counterpart communication device connected in the communication establishment step;
6. The condition inquiry step according to claim 1, wherein the condition inquiry step is performed only for the counterpart communication device for which the identification information acquired in the identification information acquisition step does not exist in the transmission history list. Information distribution method.   In the condition inquiry step, the distribution information is not yet distributed to the counterpart communication device, and the distribution information is newer than the information corresponding to the distribution information held by the counterpart communication device. The information according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein any one of the distribution information suitable for a type or setting condition of the counterpart communication device or a combination thereof is inquired as the predetermined condition. Distribution method. A distribution condition reference step for referring to a distribution condition related to the distribution information;
A distribution process control step for controlling not to perform the communication partner search step for searching for the partner communication device to be distributed of the distribution information when the distribution condition relating to the distribution information is not satisfied,
The information distribution method according to any one of claims 1 to 7.   9. The information distribution method according to claim 8, wherein the distribution condition uses any one of a distribution possible number of times, a transmission possible number, a distribution time, a distribution place / region, or a combination thereof.   10. The communication device selecting step according to claim 1, further comprising: a communication device selection step of selecting the predetermined communication device from the plurality of different communication devices when the communication device includes a plurality of different communication devices. Information distribution method. A communication means reference step for referring to a condition for designating the communication means according to the distribution information;
The information distribution method according to claim 10, wherein, in the communication means selection step, the communication means related to the condition referred to in the communication means reference step is selected as the predetermined communication means.   The information distribution method according to claim 10 or 11, wherein, in the communication means selection step, the predetermined communication means is selected based on priorities set in advance for the plurality of different communication means.   A distribution condition relating to distribution of the distribution information in each of the plurality of different communication means is set, and in the communication means selection step, the distribution information is distributed in one of the plurality of different communication means. 13. The information distribution method according to claim 12, wherein when the distribution condition is not satisfied, the communication unit having the next lower priority set is selected as the predetermined communication unit. An information distribution processing program for executing the information distribution method according to any one of claims 1 to 13 by a computer.

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