JP2019139636A - Toll road user support device, toll road user support method, and program - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a toll road user support device that can reduce burdens on a user at a special reception in toll collection processing.SOLUTION: A monitoring board 20 includes: a face image acquisition unit that, through a camera installed in an automatic toll collection machine 10, acquires a face image of a user arrived at the automatic toll collection machine 10; a use history information acquisition unit that acquires use history information indicating a toll road utilization mode in the past of the user specified by the face image; and a support processing unit that, on the basis of the use history information, performs processing for supporting the user requiring a special reception different from a reception for common users.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

  The present invention relates to a toll road user support device, a toll road user support method, and a program.

  At a toll gate on a toll road such as an expressway, a user boarding a vehicle pays a fee through a toll collection facility installed at the toll gate. An example of a toll collection facility installed at a toll booth is an automatic toll collection that is installed on the lane side and automatically collects charges (payment of money, payment by card, etc.) with incoming users. There is a machine.

  Generally, an automatic toll collector can be remotely monitored and operated by a supervisor through a monitoring panel installed at a toll booth office. When a special response is required for a user who arrives at the toll booth, a monitor who stands by at the toll booth office remotely operates the automatic toll collector through this monitoring panel to perform the response.

  For example, if the user is a person with a physical disability (hereinafter also referred to as “person with a physical disability”), there may be a case where a toll discount can be applied. When applying for the disabled person discount (hereinafter also referred to as “disabled person discount”), the following procedure is generally performed. First, the user operates a dedicated call lever (handicapped lever) attached to the automatic toll receiver and calls the monitor. Subsequently, the user follows the guidance of the monitor through the speaker of the automatic toll collector, and puts a handicap certificate (hereinafter also referred to as “disability certificate”) on the camera provided in the automatic toll collector. Present. In the handicap certificate, information such as the vehicle number of the boarding vehicle, the expiration date, and the like are recorded along with the face photograph of the person. The monitor looks at the camera image and confirms whether the conditions for applying the discount for disabled persons are satisfied. When the confirmation is obtained, the monitoring person operates the monitoring panel to apply the disabled person discount.

Also, depending on the toll road, there may be a toll system that collects different charges depending on the type of vehicle on which the user is boarded (classification of ordinary vehicles, large vehicles, etc.). In such a toll road toll booth, first, a vehicle type identification device installed upstream of the automatic toll collector determines the type classification of the vehicle that has entered. The automatic toll collector receives the discrimination result of the vehicle type classification (ordinary vehicle, large vehicle, etc.) from the vehicle type discrimination device, and automatically applies the toll according to the discrimination result.
However, in general, the vehicle type identification device is composed of a plurality of sensor groups installed along the lane, and the vehicle type classification may not be uniquely specified depending on the vehicle mode (body shape, etc.). If the vehicle type classification cannot be uniquely specified, the toll fee to be collected is not determined, so the toll collector cannot start the toll collection process. In this case, for example, the user calls a monitor by pressing a predetermined call button provided on the automatic toll collection machine. The monitoring person visually confirms the user's vehicle imaged through a monitoring camera (ITV camera) or the like and identifies the vehicle type classification. Then, the monitoring person operates the monitoring panel and applies the toll according to the specified vehicle type classification.

  Patent Document 1 describes an automatic toll collection system that can reduce the burden on the handicapped by notifying staff members based on the result of matching with a vehicle number database in which vehicle numbers are registered. ing.

JP, 2014-154111, A

  In the fee collection process using an automatic toll collector, when a special response is required by a supervisor, the user performs a predetermined operation (pressing a call button, etc.) on the toll collector, etc. It is required to call a watchman. Moreover, since the technique described in the cited document 1 is premised on registration in advance by the user, it takes time for the registration procedure.

  An object of the present invention is to provide a toll road user support device, a toll road user support method, and a program capable of reducing the burden on the user at the time of special reception of toll collection processing.

According to the first aspect of the present invention, the toll road user support device (20) receives the facial image of the user who has arrived at the toll collection facility (10) through the camera (100) installed in the lane of the toll road. A face image acquisition unit (2000) that acquires the use history information indicating a past use mode of the toll road of the user specified by the face image, A support processing unit (2003) that performs processing for supporting a user who needs a special response different from a normal user response based on the use history information.
According to such a configuration, a user who needs special handling at the time of the fee collection process can receive appropriate support for the current fee collection process based on the past usage mode associated with the user himself / herself. it can. Further, since the determination is made based on the face image obtained through the camera, it is not necessary for the user to perform a special operation, and even when a plurality of people board a single vehicle, the determination can be made accurately. As a result, it is possible to reduce the burden on the user at the time of special reception during the fee collection process.

Further, according to the second aspect of the present invention, the support processing unit determines whether or not a person with a physical disability discount was applied in the past based on the usage history information, and the person with a physical disability discount has been discounted in the past. If it has been applied, the user is instructed to present the handicapped person notebook.
According to such a configuration, a user who has a physical disability automatically presents a handicapped person's notebook when he / she arrives at the toll gate without performing a predetermined operation for calling a monitor. You can receive guidance to the effect.

According to the third aspect of the present invention, the support processing unit determines whether the current date is before the expiration date of the physical disability certificate that the user has based on the usage history information. If the person with a physical disability discount has been applied in the past and the current date is before the expiration date, the guidance for requesting the handicapped person's handbook is not provided. Apply a discount for people with disabilities.
According to such a configuration, a user who has a physical disability automatically enters the toll gate without performing a predetermined operation for calling a supervisor and presenting a physical disability certificate. In addition, the person with a physical disability discount can be applied.

According to the fourth aspect of the present invention, the support processing unit determines whether or not the user is a hearing impaired person based on the usage history information, and the user is a hearing impaired person. If this happens, notify the observer.
According to such a configuration, the supervisor can immediately recognize that the arriving user is a hearing impaired person, and can provide smooth support for the hearing impaired person.

According to the fifth aspect of the present invention, the toll road user support device indicates a vehicle type classification of a vehicle that has arrived at the toll collection facility through a vehicle type identification device installed in the lane of the toll road. A vehicle type division information acquisition unit (2001) for acquiring vehicle type division information is further provided. And when the said support process part cannot identify the vehicle type classification of the said vehicle uniquely based on the said vehicle type classification information, the vehicle type classification of the vehicle which the user had boarded in the past based on the said usage history information And the vehicle image or vehicle number are extracted, and the vehicle type classification of the vehicle is uniquely specified based on the extracted relationship and the currently acquired vehicle image or vehicle number.
According to such a configuration, even if the vehicle type classification of the vehicle is not automatically specified by the vehicle type identification device, the user's past usage history information (the vehicle type classification and its Based on the vehicle image or the vehicle number), the vehicle type division can be uniquely specified with high accuracy. Therefore, the user can perform toll collection processing according to the vehicle type classification of the vehicle to be boarded without requiring a special response by the monitoring staff.

Further, according to the sixth aspect of the present invention, when the usage history information of the user specified by the face image is not acquired, the support processing unit gives the surrounding guidance information to the user. Present.
According to such a configuration, the peripheral guide information can be automatically provided to the user who first visits the toll gate.

  According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, there is provided a toll road user support method of acquiring a face image of a user arriving at a toll collection facility through a camera installed in a lane of a toll road, A step of obtaining usage history information indicating the past usage mode of the toll road of the user specified by the face image and a special response different from a normal user response are required based on the usage history information And a step of performing processing for supporting a new user.

  According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a program for acquiring a face image of a user who has arrived at a toll collection facility through a camera installed in a lane of a toll road, A usage history information acquisition unit that acquires usage history information indicating a past usage mode of the toll road of a user specified by a face image, a special different from a response to a normal user based on the usage history information It is made to function as a support processing unit that performs processing for supporting users who need to respond.

  According to each aspect of the above-described invention, it is possible to reduce the burden on the user at the time of special reception of toll collection processing.

It is a figure which shows the whole structure of the fee collection system which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is a figure which shows the function structure of the fee collection system which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is a figure which shows the content of the utilization log information table which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is a 1st figure which shows the processing flow of the monitoring panel which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is a 2nd figure which shows the processing flow of the monitoring panel which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is a figure which shows the processing flow of the monitoring panel which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. It is a figure for demonstrating the process of the monitoring panel which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. It is a figure which shows the processing flow of the monitoring panel which concerns on the modification of 1st, 2nd embodiment. It is a figure which shows the structure of the fee collection system which concerns on the modification of 1st, 2nd embodiment.

<First Embodiment>
The fee collection system according to the first embodiment will be described below with reference to FIGS.

(Overall configuration of toll collection system)
FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an overall configuration of a toll collection system according to the first embodiment.
The toll collection system 1 according to the present embodiment is installed at an exit toll gate of a toll road such as an expressway. The toll collection system 1 accepts a toll issued from an arriving user at an entrance toll gate, and collects a toll corresponding to the travel distance of the user. In other embodiments, the present invention is not limited to this mode, and the toll collection system 1 may be installed at the entrance toll gate depending on the toll road fee system.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the toll collection system 1 includes an automatic toll collector 10 installed on an island I on the lane L side, a vehicle type discriminating device 11, a leaving vehicle detector 12A, a start controller 12B, An ITV camera 13 and a monitoring panel 20 installed at a toll booth office R are provided.

  The automatic toll collection device 10 performs toll collection processing with a user boarding the vehicle A stopped on the lane L. Installed at a predetermined position on the island I on the downstream side (+ X direction side) from the entry side vehicle detector 11A described later and on the upstream side (−X direction side) from the exit side vehicle detector 12A. .

As shown in FIG. 1, the automatic toll collector 10 has a toll collection panel 10A on the surface facing the lane L side (+ Y direction). The fee collection panel 10A is an operation panel for accepting various operations related to fee collection processing from the user who has arrived.
The fee collection panel 10A is provided with a dedicated insertion slot for receiving a pass ticket, bills, coins, a credit card and the like necessary for the fee collection process from the user who has arrived.
The fee collection panel 10A is provided with a disabled lever. The handicapped lever is used when a user who is a handicapped person wants to receive a handicapped person discount. When the user operates the handicapped lever, a call with a monitor who stands by at the toll office R is started.
The fee collection panel 10A is provided with a camera (a camera 100 described later). The user who intends to receive the application of the handicapped person discount holds the handicapped person's notebook held in front of the camera in order to prove that the application is possible. The monitor can check the contents of the handicap record (the photograph of the person's face, the expiry date of the handicap record, and the vehicle number of the vehicle for which the handicap discount is applied) through the video of the camera.
The fee collection panel 10A is provided with a call button. The call button is used when a user makes a call with a monitor when a problem occurs in the fee collection process. For example, if the vehicle type classification is not uniquely specified by the vehicle type identification device 11 described later (when the vehicle type is unknown), the toll collection process is not started because the toll is not fixed. In this case, the user presses the call button and asks for a response by the monitor.

The vehicle type discriminating device 11 is provided on the upstream side (−X direction side) of the automatic toll collector 10 and detects the vehicle length, vehicle height, number of axles, license plate information, etc. of the vehicle A entering the lane L. Is a group. As shown in FIG. 1, the vehicle type identification device 11 includes an approach-side vehicle detector 11A and a license plate recognition device 11B. In addition, the vehicle type identification device 11 includes a sensor group such as a tread board, a vehicle height detector, a vehicle length detector, and the like. The vehicle type discriminating device 11 determines the vehicle A that has entered the lane L based on various information (vehicle length, vehicle height, number of axles, license plate information, etc.) obtained through these sensor groups including the license plate recognition device 11B. Identify the vehicle category. The vehicle type classification is, for example, five categories: “light car / two-wheeled vehicle”, “normal vehicle”, “medium-sized vehicle”, “large vehicle”, and “extra-large vehicle”. The vehicle type discriminating device 11 transmits the specified vehicle type classification to the automatic fee collector 10. As a result, the automatic fee collector 10 can collect a fee corresponding to the vehicle type classification of the vehicle A. Further, when the vehicle type discriminating device 11 cannot uniquely identify the vehicle type classification of the vehicle that has arrived, the vehicle type discriminating result (classification of “vehicle type unknown”) indicating that fact is transmitted to the automatic toll collector 10 and the monitoring panel 20. To do.
In addition, detailed description is abbreviate | omitted about the specific structure and operation | movement of the vehicle type discrimination | determination apparatus 11 which concern on this embodiment.

The approach side vehicle detector 11A is installed on the most upstream side (−X direction side) of the lane L, and detects the approach of the vehicle A into the lane L.
The exit-side vehicle detector 12A is installed on the most downstream side (+ X direction side) of the lane L, and detects the exit of the vehicle A from the lane L.
Although the approach side vehicle detector 11A and the exit side vehicle detector 12A according to the present embodiment are generally well-known transmission type vehicle detectors, other embodiments are not limited to this mode. That is, the approach side vehicle detector 11A according to another embodiment may be a reflective vehicle detector.

  When the entry of the vehicle A is detected by the exit-side vehicle detector 12A, the license plate recognition device 11B acquires a captured image including the license plate of the vehicle A. Then, the license plate recognition device 11B performs a predetermined image analysis process on the acquired photographed image, and the number plate information of the photographed license plate, that is, the vehicle number and the classification number stamped on the license plate, the number Get the size, color, etc. of the plate.

  The start controller 12B is provided on the downstream side (+ X direction side) of the lane L with respect to the automatic toll collector 10, and opens and closes the lane L based on the lifting and lowering operation of the bar. For example, when the departure side vehicle detector 12A detects the exit of the vehicle A, the start controller 12B is controlled to block the lane L in preparation for the next entering vehicle. The start controller 12B is controlled to open the lane L when the toll collection process through the toll collector 10 is completed.

  The ITV camera 13 is a surveillance camera installed on the road side of the lane L, and is installed so that the entire vehicle body of the vehicle A stopped in front of the automatic toll collector 10 can be photographed. The ITV camera 13 always transmits the acquired video (moving image) to the monitoring panel 20.

The monitoring panel 20 is a device for remotely monitoring the lane L. The monitoring panel 20 displays real-time video around the vehicle A that stops in each lane L and the automatic toll collector 10 through the ITV camera 13. A monitor in the toll office R can remotely monitor the lane L of the toll gate through the monitoring panel 20.
Moreover, in this embodiment, the monitoring board 20 functions as a toll road user support apparatus for reducing the burden of the user who uses a toll road.

The monitoring panel 20 has a monitor (display 201 described later) that displays the video and the like of the ITV camera 13. The supervisor can grasp the situation around the vehicle A that stops on the lane L and the automatic toll collector 10 by confirming the video displayed on the monitor.
In addition, the monitor of the monitoring panel 20 includes a touch sensor (touch sensor 202 described later), and can accept a touch operation by a monitor. For example, as a result of confirming the recorded contents of the handicap certificate, the monitor performs an operation to apply the discount for the disabled by touching the monitoring panel 20 when determining that the user can appropriately receive the disabled discount.
In addition, when the vehicle type discriminating apparatus 11 cannot uniquely identify the vehicle type classification, the monitor visually checks the vehicle body shape and the like of the vehicle that has arrived from the video of the ITV camera 13. And the monitoring person designates the vehicle type classification based on the visual confirmation by the touch operation on the monitoring panel 20.

(Functional configuration of toll collection system)
FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a functional configuration of the fee collection system according to the first embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 2, the automatic toll collector 10 includes a camera 100, a display 101, a speaker 102, and a microphone 103. In FIG. 2, illustrations of various insertion openings such as banknotes, handicapped levers, call buttons, and the like are omitted.

  As described above, the camera 100 is used for presenting a handicap certificate or the like. In the present embodiment, the camera 100 is installed so as to be able to acquire the face image of the user who performs the fee collection process.

  The display 101 displays, for the user who has arrived, guidance on the procedure (insertion of a pass ticket, banknote, card, etc.) necessary for the toll collection process.

  The speaker 102 and the microphone 103 are used during a call with a monitor who stands by at the toll booth office R.

  The monitoring board 20 includes a CPU 200, a display 201, a touch sensor 202, a speaker 203, a microphone 204, and a recording medium 205.

  The CPU 200 is a processor that controls the operation of the monitoring panel 20. Various functions of the CPU 200 will be described later.

  As described above, the display 201 is a monitor on which video from the ITV camera 13, a photographed image of the camera 100 of the automatic toll collector 10, and the like are displayed.

  As described above, the touch sensor 202 accepts various touch operations (application of discount for disabled persons, designation of vehicle type classification, etc.) by the monitoring staff.

  The speaker 203 and the microphone 204 are used during a call with a user who collects charges with the automatic charge receiver 10.

  The recording medium 205 records a usage history information table (described later) indicating past usage modes of a user who has performed toll collection processing at a toll gate on the toll road.

  The CPU 200 according to the present embodiment operates based on a predetermined program, whereby a face image acquisition unit 2000, a vehicle type classification information acquisition unit 2001, a usage history information acquisition unit 2002, a support processing unit 2003, and a usage history recording processing unit 2004. As a function.

  The face image acquisition unit 2000 acquires the face image of the user who has arrived at the automatic fee collection device 10 through the camera 100 installed on the fee collection panel 10 </ b> A of the automatic fee collection device 10.

  The vehicle type division information acquisition unit 2001 acquires vehicle type division information indicating the vehicle type division of the vehicle that has arrived at the automatic toll collector 10 through the vehicle type identification device 11.

  The usage history information acquisition unit 2002 acquires the usage history information of the user specified by the face image acquired by the face image acquisition unit 2000.

Based on the usage history information acquired by the usage history information acquisition unit 2002, the support processing unit 2003 performs processing for supporting a user who needs special response. Here, the “special response” is a response that is different from the response to a normal user or a normal user who can perform a smooth payment process, and is a special circumstance or request of the user who has arrived at the automatic bill collector 10. This means a predetermined confirmation work and input operation by a monitoring person to cope with the above. Typical examples of “special reception” include reception for applying a discount for disabled persons through confirmation of the handicapped person's notebook as described above, and reception for determining a toll when the vehicle type is unknown. There are also special responses to hearing-impaired people, such as talking to the person using the video phone from the supervisor, and going to the lane to support when they are able to drive but some of their bodies are inconvenient and difficult to pay. include.
Specific processing performed by the support processing unit 2003 will be described later.

  The usage history recording processing unit 2004 records and accumulates various information groups acquired during the fee collection processing by the user in association with each other, and creates a usage history information table. Specifically, the usage history recording processing unit 2004 is acquired (discriminated) through the face image of the user acquired through the camera 100, the vehicle number of the vehicle acquired through the license plate recognition device 11B, and the vehicle type determination device 11. The vehicle type classification and the vehicle image acquired through the ITV camera 13 are associated and recorded in the recording medium 205. Further, the usage history recording processing unit 2004 further records and accumulates the usage mode related to the fee collection processing of the user.

(Contents of usage history information table)
FIG. 3 is a diagram showing the contents of the usage history information table according to the first embodiment.
FIG. 3 is an information table recorded on the recording medium 205, and shows the contents of the usage history information table created by recording and accumulating the usage history recording processing unit 2004.
In the usage history information table, usage history information of the user is recorded for each user who uses the toll road. Here, the usage history information specifically refers to “use date / time”, “face image”, “vehicle number”, “vehicle type”, “vehicle image”, “applicable for disabled persons”, “expiration date for disabled persons” This is a group of information associated with various types of information such as “day” and “remarks”.

“Use date and time” is the date and time when the user used the toll road (the toll collection process was performed using the toll collection machine 10).
The “face image” is a face image of the user acquired through the camera 100 (FIG. 2) during the fee collection process using the automatic fee collection device 10. The usage history recording processing unit 2004 records the face image acquired by the face image acquiring unit 2000.
The “vehicle number” is information acquired through the license plate recognition device 11B, and is information indicating the vehicle number of the vehicle on which the user is boarded.
“Vehicle type classification” is information indicating the vehicle type classification of the vehicle on which the user is boarded, as a result of the vehicle type classification by the vehicle type identification device 11. The usage history recording processing unit 2004 records the vehicle type classification acquired by the vehicle type classification information acquisition unit 2001. If the vehicle type classification cannot be uniquely identified by the vehicle type identification device 11, the vehicle type classification designated by the special response by the monitoring person is recorded in the “vehicle type classification”.
The “vehicle image” is an image acquired through the ITV camera 13 and is an image of the entire vehicle body of the vehicle on which the user is boarded.
“Apply for disabled person discount” is information indicating whether or not a disabled person discount is applied to a user. The use history record processing unit 2004 records “applicable for disabled persons” as “Yes” when the monitor performs an operation for applying the disabled person's discount to the monitoring panel 20 in a special response to the user. . In addition, the use history recording processing unit 2004 records “Yes” in “Disabled person discount application” even when the person with a disability discount is applied without the special response by the monitoring person by the processing of the support processing part 2003 described later. .
The “handicap certificate expiration date” is information indicating the expiration date of the disabled certificate possessed by the user who is a disabled person. The usage history record processing unit 2004 accepts an input operation for the expiration date of the handicap notebook from a monitor who has confirmed the recorded contents of the handicap notebook. Then, the use history record processing unit 2004 records the information input from the monitoring person in the “handicap certificate expiration date”. In another embodiment, the present invention is not limited to this mode. For example, the usage history recording processing unit 2004 automatically extracts the expiration date of the handicap notebook from the photographed image of the handicap notebook acquired through the camera 100. The result may be recorded as the “handicap date for disabled person”.
“Remarks” is information indicating matters to be further noted regarding the usage mode of each user. In the usage history information table according to the present embodiment, for example, “Remarks” records that the user is a “person with hearing impairment”. The usage history recording processing unit 2004 receives an input operation of a matter to be noted about the user (that the user is a “person with hearing impairment”) from the monitor who has performed the special response. Then, the usage history record processing unit 2004 records the information input from the monitor in “Remarks”. In other embodiments, the present invention is not limited to this mode. For example, the usage history recording processing unit 2004 is based on the contents of the exchange between the user and the monitor (such as voice data acquired through the microphone 204). It is also possible to automatically determine that “the user is a“ person with hearing impairment ”and automatically record“ person with hearing impairment ”in“ remarks ”.

(Processing flow of monitoring panel)
4 and 5 are a first diagram and a second diagram, respectively, showing the processing flow of the monitoring panel according to the first embodiment.
Hereinafter, the processing flow of the monitoring panel 20 will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 4 and 5.

  The processing flow shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 is a processing flow for supporting the procedure for receiving the handicapped person discount for the arriving user and reducing the burden. The CPU 200 of the monitoring panel 20 starts the processing flow from the point in time when the approaching vehicle detector 11A detects the vehicle entering the lane L.

  When the entry of the vehicle into the lane L is detected, the face image acquisition unit 2000 of the CPU 200 acquires the face image of the user who is going to perform toll collection processing through the camera 100 of the toll collector 10 (step S01). ). The face image acquisition unit 2000 appropriately extracts and acquires the user's face image from the video acquired from the camera 100. A known face recognition technique or the like may be applied as means for appropriately extracting the user's face image from the camera video.

The usage history information acquisition unit 2002 of the CPU 200 stores in the usage history information table (FIG. 3) the usage history information including a face image (of the same person) that matches the user specified in the face image acquired in step S01. It is determined whether it is included (step S02). A known face image matching technique may be applied to means for extracting a face image that is the same (of the same person) as a newly acquired face image from a plurality of face images acquired in the past.
When there is no usage history information including the face image of the same person as the user specified by the face image acquired in step S01 (step S02: NO), the CPU 200 ends the process for supporting the user's fee collection process. Then, normal charge collection processing is performed.
On the other hand, when there is usage history information including a face image that matches the face image acquired in step S01 (step S02: YES), the usage history information acquisition unit 2002 acquires the usage history information including the face image.

Next, the support processing unit 2003 of the CPU 200 refers to “application for handicapped person discount” of the use history information acquired in step S02, and whether or not the user related to the use history information has been applied for handicapped person discount in the past. Is determined (step S03).
When the user related to the acquired usage history information has not been applied with the handicapped person discount in the past (step S03: NO), the CPU 200 ends the process of supporting the charge collection process of the user, and the normal charge Perform receipt processing.
On the other hand, when the user related to the acquired usage history information has been applied with the disabled discount in the past (step S03: YES), the support processing unit 2003 then displays the “disabled handbook valid” of the usage history information. With reference to “expiration date”, it is determined whether or not the current date is before the expiration date of the handicap certificate (step S04).

If the current date is not before the expiry date of the handicap certificate (step S04: NO), the support processing unit 2003 stores the handicap certificate held by the camera 100 through the display 101 and the speaker 102 of the automatic toll collector 10. Announcement is made that the presentation is held up (step S06). Thus, when the user stops in front of the automatic toll collector 10, the user is automatically notified that the handicap notebook should be held in front of the camera 100 without operating the handicapped lever. become.
At the same time as the processing in step S06, the support processing unit 2003 performs a process of notifying the monitoring staff through the speaker 203 of the monitoring panel 20 that the video of the handicapped certificate acquired through the camera 100 should be confirmed ( Step S07). As a result, the monitoring staff can immediately confirm the expiration date of the handicap certificate presented in front of the camera 100 through the display 201.

  Here, the processing content of the above-described step S07 will be described in more detail with reference to FIG.

As illustrated in FIG. 5, the support processing unit 2003 first notifies the monitoring staff that the content of the handicapped notebook presented by the user (video by the camera 100) should be confirmed (step S11). Next, the support processing unit 2003 refers to “remarks” in the usage history information and determines whether the user is a hearing impaired person (step S12).
When the user is not a hearing impaired person (step S12: NO), the support processing unit 2003 ends the process of step S07 in FIG.
On the other hand, if the user is a hearing impaired person (step S12: YES), then the support processing unit 2003 further provides a hearing impaired person to the monitoring person through the speaker 203 of the monitoring panel 20 or the like. (Step S13).
Simultaneously with the processing of step S13, the support processing unit 2003 uses the display 201, the speaker 203, and the microphone 204 of the monitoring panel 20, and the call function (video phone) using the display 101, the speaker 102, and the microphone 103 of the automatic toll collector 10. Start) (step S14). As a result, the supervisor can promptly communicate appropriately with the user who is a hearing impaired person through a handwriting or the like.

Returning to FIG. 4, next, the CPU 200 performs a process based on the operation of the supervisor (step S <b> 08). That is, if the expiry date of the disability certificate presented by the user through the camera 100 is earlier than the current date (the expiry date has been newly updated), the surveillance staff member applies the disability discount application operation. Do. In this case, the usage history recording processing unit 2004 accepts an input operation of a new expiration date from the monitor, and records and accumulates usage history information including the new expiration date.
If the handicap certificate is not presented, the monitor gives the user a notice that the normal toll is paid.

  If the current date is before the expiry date of the handicap certificate (step S04: YES), the usage history record processing unit 2004 automatically provides the user with no guidance requesting the presentation of the disability certificate. The handicapped person discount is applied to (step S05). As a result, when the user stops in front of the automatic toll collector 10, the user is automatically applied with the disabled discount without operating the disabled lever and presenting the disabled certificate.

(Function, effect)
As described above, the monitoring panel 20 (toll road user support apparatus) according to the first embodiment is configured to collect the toll collection facility (camera 100 of the toll automatic toll collector 10) installed in the lane L of the toll road. A face image acquisition unit 2000 is provided for acquiring a face image of a user who has arrived at the automatic charge receiver 10). The monitoring board 20 further includes a usage history information acquisition unit 2002 that acquires usage history information indicating past usage modes of the toll road of the user specified by the face image. In addition, the monitoring board 20 further includes a support processing unit 2003 that performs processing for supporting a user who needs special response based on the usage history information.
According to the configuration as described above, a user who needs special treatment at the time of toll collection processing can use the past usage mode associated with the user himself / herself (whether or not he / she has received special treatment related to the application of disability discount in the past). ), It is possible to receive appropriate support for the current toll collection process. Further, since the determination is made based on the face image obtained through the camera 100, it is not necessary for the user to perform a special operation, and even when a plurality of people board a single vehicle, the determination can be made accurately. As a result, it is possible to reduce the burden on the user at the time of special reception during the fee collection process.

Moreover, according to the monitoring board 20 which concerns on 1st Embodiment, the support process part 2003 is based on the usage log information acquired by the usage log information acquisition part 2002, and gives a disabled person discount to the user who arrived in the past. It is determined whether or not the application has been applied, and if the handicapped person discount has been applied in the past, guidance for requesting the user to present the handicap certificate is given (see steps S03 and S06 in FIG. 4).
According to such a configuration, the user who is a handicapped person automatically holds the handicap notebook in front of the camera 100 without operating the handicapped lever when the user stops in front of the automatic toll collector 10. Announcement of power should be received.

Further, according to the monitoring panel 20 according to the first embodiment, the support processing unit 2003 further determines whether or not the current date is before the expiration date of the handicap certificate that the user has based on the usage history information. Determine whether. Then, the support processing unit 2003, when the handicapped person discount has been applied in the past, and the current date is before the expiration date, the handicapped person does not provide guidance for requesting the handicap certificate. A discount is applied (see steps S04 and S05 in FIG. 4).
According to such a configuration, when the user stops in front of the automatic toll collector 10, the user is automatically applied with the disabled discount without operating the disabled lever and presenting the disabled certificate. Can do.

Moreover, according to the monitoring board 20 which concerns on 1st Embodiment, the assistance process part 2003 determines whether the user who arrived is a hearing impaired person based on utilization log information, and the said user is a hearing impaired person. If the person is a supervisor, the fact is notified to the observer.
According to such a configuration, the supervisor can immediately recognize that the arriving user is a hearing impaired person, and can provide smooth support for the hearing impaired person.

<Second Embodiment>
Next, a fee collection system according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. Since the fee collection system according to the second embodiment has the same configuration (FIGS. 1 and 2) as that of the first embodiment, the illustration is omitted.

(Processing flow of monitoring panel)
FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a processing flow of the monitoring panel according to the second embodiment.
FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining the process of the monitoring panel according to the second embodiment.
Hereinafter, the processing flow of the monitoring panel 20 according to the second embodiment will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 6 and 7.

  The processing flow shown in FIG. 6 is a processing flow for assisting toll collection processing and reducing the burden on a user whose vehicle type classification is not automatically determined. The CPU 200 of the monitoring panel 20 starts the processing flow from the point in time when the approaching vehicle detector 11A detects the vehicle entering the lane L.

When the approach of the vehicle to the lane L is detected, the vehicle type classification information acquisition unit 2001 of the CPU 200 acquires the vehicle type classification information indicating the vehicle type classification of the arrived vehicle through the vehicle type determination device 11 (step S21).
Subsequently, the face image acquisition unit 2000 of the CPU 200 acquires the face image of the user through the camera 100 of the automatic toll receiver 10 (step S22).

Whether the usage history information acquisition unit 2002 of the CPU 200 includes usage history information including a facial image of the same person as the user specified in the facial image acquired in step S22 in the usage history information table (FIG. 3). It is determined whether or not (step S23).
When there is no usage history information including the face image of the same person as the user specified by the face image acquired in step S22 (step S23: NO), the CPU 200 ends the process of supporting the user's fee collection process. Then, normal charge collection processing is performed.
On the other hand, when there is usage history information including the face image of the same person as the user specified by the face image acquired in step S01 (step S23: YES), the usage history information acquisition unit 2002 includes the face image. Get usage history information.

Subsequently, the support processing unit 2003 of the CPU 200 determines whether or not the vehicle type classification information acquired in step S21 indicates “vehicle type unknown” (state not uniquely specified) (step S24).
When the vehicle type classification information acquired in step S21 does not indicate “vehicle type unknown” (step S24: NO), the CPU 200 ends the process of supporting the user's charge collection process and performs the normal charge collection process. .
On the other hand, when the vehicle type classification information acquired in step S21 indicates “vehicle type unknown” (step S24: YES), the support processing unit 2003 then displays “vehicle type classification” in the usage history information acquired in step S23. ”And“ vehicle image ”are extracted (step S25).
The reason why the discrimination result by the vehicle type discriminating device 11 is “vehicle type unknown” is, for example, when the license plate recognition device 11B cannot correctly discriminate the classification number or the like because there are deposits such as mud on the license plate. Etc. are considered. In this case, the support processing unit 2003 and the usage history recording processing unit 2004 cannot obtain the vehicle number of the vehicle.

  Here, the processing content of step S25 mentioned above is demonstrated in detail, referring FIG.

It is assumed that the user specified by the face image acquired this time is the same person as the user specified by the face image F2 in the use history information table (FIG. 3). In this case, as shown in FIG. 7, the usage history information acquisition unit 2002 acquires all usage history information of the user specified by the face image F2.
Then, the support processing unit 2003 extracts the relationship between the “vehicle type classification” and the “vehicle image” recorded in the acquired usage history information. For example, in the case of the example illustrated in FIG. 7, the support processing unit 2003 extracts the relationship between the vehicle type classification “large vehicle” and the vehicle image G1 and the relationship between the vehicle type classification “normal vehicle” and the vehicle image G2. .

Returning to FIG. 6, the support processing unit 2003 identifies the vehicle type classification related to the vehicle image acquired this time based on the relationship extracted in step S25 (two types of relationship shown in FIG. 7) (step S26). For example, when the vehicle image acquired this time is similar to the vehicle image G1 (FIG. 7), the support processing unit 2003 specifies that the vehicle type classification of the vehicle that has arrived this time is “large vehicle”. , Confirm the toll. If the vehicle image acquired this time is similar to the vehicle image G2 (FIG. 7), the support processing unit 2003 specifies that the vehicle type classification of the vehicle that has arrived this time is “ordinary vehicle”, Confirm the toll.
If the vehicle image acquired this time does not match any of the relationships extracted in step S25, or if no relationship between “vehicle type classification” and “vehicle image” is extracted, the support processing unit 2003 may notify the monitoring person that the vehicle type classification of the vehicle that has arrived should be specified by visual confirmation.

(Function, effect)
As described above, according to the monitoring panel 20 according to the second embodiment, the support processing unit 2003 uniquely identifies the vehicle type classification of the vehicle that has arrived based on the vehicle type classification information acquired by the vehicle type classification information acquisition unit 2001. If not, the relationship between the vehicle type classification of the vehicle on which the user has been in the past and the vehicle image is extracted based on the usage history information. Then, the support processing unit 2003 uniquely identifies the vehicle type classification of the vehicle that has arrived based on the extracted relationship and the vehicle image acquired this time.
According to such a configuration, even if the vehicle type classification of the vehicle is not automatically specified uniquely by the vehicle type identification device 11, the vehicle type classification specified in the past for one user and its vehicle image The vehicle type classification can be uniquely specified with high accuracy based on Therefore, the user can perform toll collection processing according to the vehicle type classification of the vehicle to be boarded without requiring a special response by the monitoring staff.

  The support processing unit 2003 according to the second embodiment has been described as extracting the relationship between the “vehicle type classification” and the “vehicle image” recorded in the usage history information in step S25 of FIG. However, other embodiments are not limited to this aspect. For example, even if the vehicle type classification of the vehicle from which the vehicle type identification device 11 has arrived cannot be uniquely specified, it may be assumed that the vehicle number of the vehicle can be read by the license plate recognition device 11B. In this case, the support processing unit 2003 may extract the relationship between “vehicle type classification” and “vehicle number” recorded in the usage history information of a certain user in step S25 of FIG. Thereby, the support processing unit 2003 can specify the vehicle type classification related to the vehicle number acquired this time based on the relationship between the past “vehicle type classification” and “vehicle number” extracted in step S25. .

<Various modifications>
As described above, the fee collection system 1 and the monitoring panel 20 according to the first and second embodiments have been described in detail. However, specific modes of the fee collection system 1 and the monitoring panel 20 are limited to those described above. However, various design changes and the like can be made without departing from the scope of the invention.
For example, the monitoring board 20 according to the first and second embodiments, when usage history information including a face image that matches the face image of the incoming user (of the same person) is not recorded, The explanation was given assuming that the processing for supporting the fee collection processing is completed. However, the monitoring board 20 which concerns on other embodiment is not limited to this aspect.

(Processing flow of monitoring panel according to modification)
FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a processing flow of the monitoring panel according to a modification of the first and second embodiments.

As shown in FIG. 8, the face image acquisition unit 2000 (monitoring panel 20) of the CPU 200 according to the modification of the first and second embodiments transmits the user's face image through the camera 100 of the automatic toll collector 10. Obtain (step S31).
Next, the usage history information acquisition unit 2002 of the CPU 200 includes usage history information including a facial image of the same person as the user specified by the facial image acquired in step S31 in the usage history information table (FIG. 3). It is determined whether it has been (step S32).
When there is usage history information including a face image of the same person as the user specified by the face image acquired in step S31 (step S32: YES), the CPU 200 will be described in the first and second embodiments, for example. As described above, the processing for supporting the fee collection processing of the user is performed.
On the other hand, if there is no usage history information including a face image that matches the face image acquired in step S01 (step S32: NO), it is determined that the user is the first visitor to the toll gate, and support is provided. The processing unit 2003 presents the surrounding guidance information related to the position (current location) where the toll booth exists through the display 101, the speaker 102, and the like of the automatic toll collector 10 (step S33).
Here, the peripheral guidance information is information on facilities in the vicinity of the toll booth, such as tourist spots, commercial facilities, and parking lots frequently visited by other users (tourists) who have passed this toll booth. The location and its availability.

(Function, effect)
As described above, according to the monitoring panel 20 according to the modification, the support processing unit 2003 provides the peripheral guidance information to the user when the use history information of the user specified by the face image is not acquired. Present.
According to such a configuration, the peripheral guide information can be automatically provided to the user who first visits the toll gate.

(Processing flow of the toll collection system according to the modification)
FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a toll collection system according to a modification of the first and second embodiments.
The fee collection system 1 according to the first and second embodiments is installed independently at each toll gate, and monitors only the usage history information of users who pass through the one toll gate installed. 20 has been described as a mode of storage in 20 (recording medium 205). However, other embodiments are not limited to this aspect.

As shown in FIG. 9, the fee collection system 1 according to the modification of the first and second embodiments further includes a host server 3.
The host server 3 further aggregates the usage history information tables recorded and stored in the monitoring panel 20 (recording medium 205) installed in each tollgate office of each of the tollgates T1, T2, T3,. To do. In other words, the use history information of all users passing through the toll gates T1, T2, T3,.
By adopting such a mode, when a user who has passed one toll gate (for example, toll gate T1) tries to pass another toll gate (for example toll gate T2) for the first time. Based on the past usage mode (usage history information) recorded at the toll booth T1, it is possible to receive support at the time of special reception of toll collection processing.

  In each of the above-described embodiments, the various processes of the monitoring panel 20 described above are stored in a computer-readable recording medium in the form of a program, and the program is read and executed by the computer. Various processes are performed. The computer-readable recording medium is a magnetic disk, a magneto-optical disk, a CD-ROM, a DVD-ROM, a semiconductor memory, or the like. Alternatively, the computer program may be distributed to the computer via a communication line, and the computer that has received the distribution may execute the program.

  The program may be for realizing a part of the functions described above. Furthermore, what can implement | achieve the function mentioned above in combination with the program already recorded on the computer system, what is called a difference file (difference program) may be sufficient.

  In other embodiments, the functions (face image acquisition unit 2000, vehicle type classification information acquisition unit 2001, and usage) of the CPU 200 of the monitoring panel 20 described in the first and second embodiments (and modifications thereof) are used. A mode in which a part of the history information acquisition unit 2002, the support processing unit 2003, and the usage history recording processing unit 2004) is provided by another computer connected via a network may be employed. In particular, a mode in which a part of each process of the CPU 200 of the monitoring panel 20 described in the first and second embodiments (and modifications thereof) is executed by the CPU of the automatic toll collector 10 may be employed.

  As described above, several embodiments according to the present invention have been described. However, all these embodiments are presented as examples, and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, replacements, and changes can be made without departing from the scope of the invention. These embodiments and modifications thereof are included in the invention described in the claims and equivalents thereof as well as included in the scope and gist of the invention.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Charge collection system 10 Charge automatic collection machine 10A Charge collection panel 100 Camera 101 Display 102 Speaker 103 Microphone 11 Vehicle type discrimination device 11A Entrance vehicle detector 11B License plate recognition device 12A Exit vehicle detector 12B Start controller 20 Monitoring panel 200 CPU
2000 face image acquisition unit 2001 vehicle type classification information acquisition unit 2002 usage history information acquisition unit 2003 support processing unit 2004 usage history recording processing unit 201 display 202 touch sensor 203 speaker 204 microphone 205 recording medium 3 upper server L lane I island R toll office Station A Vehicle

Claims (8)

A face image acquisition unit that acquires a face image of a user who has arrived at the toll collection facility through a camera installed in the lane of the toll road;
A usage history information acquisition unit that acquires usage history information indicating a past usage mode of the toll road of the user specified by the face image;
A support processing unit that performs a process for supporting a user who needs a special response different from a normal user response based on the use history information;
A toll road user support device comprising: The support processing unit
Based on the use history information, it is determined whether or not a discount for disabled persons has been applied in the past, and if a discount for disabled persons has been applied in the past, the handicapped person's handbook is presented to the user The toll road user support device according to claim 1 which performs guidance which asks for. The support processing unit
Based on the usage history information, it is further determined whether or not the current date is before the expiration date of the physical disability certificate held by the user, and the physical disability discount has been applied in the past. The toll road user support device according to claim 2, wherein, when the current date is before the expiration date, the disabled person discount is applied without performing a guidance requesting the presentation of the disabled person notebook. . The support processing unit
The determination whether or not the user is a hearing impaired person is made based on the usage history information, and if the user is a hearing impaired person, the fact is notified to the monitoring person. 3. The toll road user support device according to 3. A vehicle type classification information acquisition unit that acquires vehicle type classification information indicating a vehicle type classification of a vehicle that has arrived at the toll collection facility through a vehicle type identification device installed in the lane of the toll road;
The support processing unit
When the vehicle type classification of the vehicle cannot be uniquely specified based on the vehicle type classification information, the vehicle type classification of the vehicle that the user has previously boarded based on the usage history information and the vehicle image or vehicle number The toll road according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein a vehicle type classification of the vehicle is uniquely specified based on the extracted relationship and the vehicle image or vehicle number acquired this time. User support device. The support processing unit
The toll road according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, when usage history information of a user specified by the face image is not acquired, surrounding guidance information is presented to the user. User support device. Acquiring a face image of a user who has arrived at the toll collection facility through a camera installed in the lane of the toll road;
Obtaining usage history information indicating a past usage mode of the toll road of the user specified by the face image;
Performing a process for supporting the user who needs a special response different from a normal user response based on the use history information;
A toll road user support method having Computer
A face image acquisition unit that acquires a face image of a user who has arrived at the toll collection facility through a camera installed in the lane of the toll road;
A usage history information acquisition unit that acquires usage history information indicating a past usage mode of the toll road of the user specified by the face image;
A support processing unit for performing a process for supporting a user who needs a special response different from a normal user response based on the use history information;
Program to function as.

Images