JP2020046939A - Server device, guidance device and program - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a server device and a program that guide degree of congestion of a vehicle.SOLUTION: A guidance system 1 includes an image processing server 10 and a distribution server 20. The image processing server 10 generates congestion data indicating a congestion state in a vehicle by analyzing an image of an inside of a vehicle. The distribution server 20 transmits the congestion data to an information terminal device 30.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

  An embodiment of the present invention relates to a server device, a guidance device, and a program.

  2. Description of the Related Art There is known a service capable of searching for a route of a transportation system such as a railway. In such a service, a search can be performed based on speed, fare, number of transfers, and the like.

JP 2001-328534 A

In such a service, if the degree of congestion of vehicles in transportation can be provided, user convenience is improved.
A problem to be solved by the embodiments of the present invention is to provide a server device, a guide device, and a program for guiding the degree of congestion of a vehicle.

  The server device according to the embodiment includes an image processing unit and a communication unit. The image processing unit generates congestion data indicating a congestion state in the vehicle by analyzing an image of the inside of the vehicle. The communication unit transmits the congestion data.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of a main configuration of a guidance system according to an embodiment and components included in the guidance system. FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of a main configuration of a guidance system according to an embodiment and components included in the guidance system. 4 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing by a processor of the image processing server in FIG. 1. 3 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing by a processor of a distribution server in FIG. 1. 3 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing by a processor of a distribution server in FIG. 1. 3 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing by a processor of the information terminal device in FIG. 2. 3 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing by a processor of the information terminal device in FIG. 2. 3 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing by a processor of the digital signage in FIG. 2. The figure which shows an example of the image showing the image processing result. The figure for demonstrating how to obtain | require the congestion situation. The figure which shows an example of the list screen displayed on the touch panel of the information terminal device in FIG. The figure which shows an example of the vehicle screen displayed on the touch panel of the information terminal device in FIG.

Hereinafter, a guidance system according to an embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. In the drawings used for describing the following embodiments, the scale of each part may be appropriately changed. In addition, each drawing used in the description of the following embodiment may omit the configuration for the sake of description.
FIGS. 1 and 2 are block diagrams each showing an example of a main part configuration of a guide system 1 and components included in the guide system 1 according to the embodiment, which are divided into two diagrams. The guidance system 1 provides a guidance service and the like. The guidance service guides a search result of a route such as a railway based on conditions such as a departure station and a destination station. In addition, the guidance service provides guidance on the congestion status and congestion prediction of trains and the like on the route. In the present specification, the “congestion status” indicates the current or the latest congestion status. In this specification, “congestion prediction” indicates a prediction of a future congestion state. The guidance system 1 includes, for example, an image processing server 10, a distribution server 20, an information terminal device 30, a digital signage 40, a camera 50, and a transmission device 60.

  The image processing server 10, the distribution server 20, the information terminal device 30, the digital signage 40, and the camera 50 are connected to a network NW. The network NW is, for example, a communication network including the Internet. The network NW is, for example, a communication network including a WAN (wide area network). The network NW may be a communication network including a private network such as an intranet. The network NW may be a communication network including a LAN (local area network).

  The image processing server 10 performs image processing and the like on image data captured by the camera 50. The image processing server 10 includes, for example, a processor 11, a read-only memory (ROM) 12, a random-access memory (RAM) 13, an auxiliary storage device 14, and a communication interface 15. These components are connected by a bus 16 or the like.

  The processor 11 corresponds to a central part of a computer that performs processing such as computation and control necessary for the operation of the image processing server 10. The processor 11 controls each unit to realize various functions of the image processing server 10 based on a program such as system software, application software, or firmware stored in the ROM 12 or the auxiliary storage device 14 or the like. Note that part or all of the program may be incorporated in a circuit of the processor 11. The processor 11 includes, for example, a central processing unit (CPU), a micro processing unit (MPU), a system on a chip (SoC), a digital signal processor (DSP), a graphics processing unit (GPU), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), Examples include a PLD (programmable logic device) or an FPGA (field-programmable gate array). Alternatively, the processor 11 is a combination of a plurality of these.

  The ROM 12 corresponds to a main storage device of a computer having the processor 11 as a center. The ROM 12 is a nonvolatile memory used exclusively for reading data. The ROM 12 stores the above program. Further, the ROM 12 stores data or various set values used when the processor 11 performs various processes.

  The RAM 13 corresponds to a main storage device of a computer having the processor 11 as a center. The RAM 13 is a memory used for reading and writing data. The RAM 13 is used as a so-called work area for temporarily storing data used when the processor 11 performs various processes.

  The auxiliary storage device 14 corresponds to an auxiliary storage device of a computer having the processor 11 as a center. The auxiliary storage device 14 is, for example, an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), a hard disk drive (HDD), a solid state drive (SSD), or an embedded MultiMediaCard (eMMC). The auxiliary storage device 14 may store the above program. Further, the auxiliary storage device 14 stores data used when the processor 11 performs various processing, data generated by the processing in the processor 11, various setting values, and the like.

  The program stored in the ROM 12 or the auxiliary storage device 14 includes a program for executing processing described later. As an example, the image processing server 10 is transferred to a manager of the image processing server 10 in a state where the program is stored in the ROM 12 or the auxiliary storage device 14. However, the image processing server 10 may be transferred to the administrator or the like without the program being stored in the ROM 12 or the auxiliary storage device 14. Further, the image processing server 10 may be transferred to the administrator or the like in a state where a program different from the program is stored in the ROM 12 or the auxiliary storage device 14. Then, a program for executing a process to be described later may be separately transferred to the administrator or the like, and may be written to the ROM 12 or the auxiliary storage device 14 under the operation of the administrator or a service person. At this time, the transfer of the program can be realized by recording the program on a removable storage medium such as a magnetic disk, a magneto-optical disk, an optical disk, or a semiconductor memory, or by downloading the program via a network NW.

  The communication interface 15 is an interface for the image processing server 10 to communicate via a network NW or the like.

  The bus 16 includes a control bus, an address bus, a data bus, and the like, and transmits signals transmitted and received by each unit of the image processing server 10.

  The distribution server 20 distributes various types of information to the information terminal device 30 and the like. The distribution server 20 includes, for example, a processor 21, a ROM 22, a RAM 23, an auxiliary storage device 24, and a communication interface 25. These components are connected by a bus 26 or the like. The image processing server 10 and the distribution server 20 work together as a server device.

  The processor 21 corresponds to a central part of a computer that performs processing such as arithmetic and control necessary for the operation of the distribution server 20. The processor 21 controls each unit to realize various functions of the distribution server 20 based on a program such as system software, application software, or firmware stored in the ROM 22 or the auxiliary storage device 24 or the like. A part or all of the program may be incorporated in a circuit of the processor 21. The processor 21 is, for example, a CPU, MPU, SoC, DSP, GPU, ASIC, PLD, or FPGA. Alternatively, the processor 21 is a combination of a plurality of these.

  The ROM 22 corresponds to a main storage device of a computer having the processor 21 as a center. The ROM 22 is a nonvolatile memory used exclusively for reading data. The ROM 22 stores the above program. The ROM 22 stores data used by the processor 21 to perform various processes, various set values, and the like.

  The RAM 23 corresponds to a main storage device of a computer having the processor 21 as a center. The RAM 23 is a memory used for reading and writing data. The RAM 23 is used as a so-called work area for temporarily storing data used when the processor 21 performs various processes.

The auxiliary storage device 24 corresponds to an auxiliary storage device of a computer having the processor 21 as a center. The auxiliary storage device 24 is, for example, an EEPROM, an HDD, an SSD, or an eMMC. The auxiliary storage device 24 may store the above program. The auxiliary storage device 24 stores data used by the processor 21 to perform various processing, data generated by the processing in the processor 21, various setting values, and the like.
The auxiliary storage device 24 stores map data of each station. Further, the auxiliary storage device 24 also stores data on the congestion status of stations and vehicles.

  The program stored in the ROM 22 or the auxiliary storage device 24 includes a program for executing processing described later. As an example, the distribution server 20 is transferred to an administrator of the distribution server 20 in a state where the program is stored in the ROM 22 or the auxiliary storage device 24. However, the distribution server 20 may be transferred to the administrator or the like in a state where the program is not stored in the ROM 22 or the auxiliary storage device 24. Further, the distribution server 20 may be transferred to the administrator or the like in a state where a program different from the program is stored in the ROM 22 or the auxiliary storage device 24. Then, a program for executing a process to be described later may be separately transferred to the manager or the like, and may be written to the ROM 22 or the auxiliary storage device 24 under the operation of the manager or a service person. At this time, the transfer of the program can be realized by recording the program on a removable storage medium such as a magnetic disk, a magneto-optical disk, an optical disk, or a semiconductor memory, or by downloading the program via a network NW.

  The communication interface 25 is an interface for the distribution server 20 to communicate via a network NW or the like.

  The bus 26 includes a control bus, an address bus, a data bus, and the like, and transmits signals transmitted and received by each unit of the distribution server 20.

  The information terminal device 30 is, for example, a smartphone, a feature phone, a tablet PC, a notebook PC, or the like. The information terminal device 30 includes, for example, a processor 31, a ROM 32, a RAM 33, an auxiliary storage device 34, a communication interface 35, an antenna 36, and a touch panel 37. These components are connected by a bus 38 or the like. The information terminal device 30 is an example of a guidance device.

  The processor 31 corresponds to a central part of a computer that performs processing such as arithmetic and control necessary for the operation of the information terminal device 30. The processor 31 controls each unit to realize various functions of the information terminal device 30 based on a program such as system software, application software, or firmware stored in the ROM 32, the auxiliary storage device 34, or the like. Note that part or all of the program may be incorporated in the circuit of the processor 31. The processor 31 is, for example, a CPU, MPU, SoC, DSP, GPU, ASIC, PLD, or FPGA. Alternatively, the processor 31 is a combination of a plurality of these.

  The ROM 32 corresponds to a main storage device of a computer having the processor 31 as a center. The ROM 32 is a nonvolatile memory used exclusively for reading data. The ROM 32 stores the above program. The ROM 32 stores data used by the processor 31 to perform various processes, various set values, and the like.

  The RAM 33 corresponds to a main storage device of a computer having the processor 31 as a center. The RAM 33 is a memory used for reading and writing data. The RAM 33 is used as a so-called work area for temporarily storing data used when the processor 31 performs various processes.

  The auxiliary storage device 34 corresponds to an auxiliary storage device of a computer around the processor 31. The auxiliary storage device 34 is, for example, an EEPROM, an HDD, an SSD, or an eMMC. The auxiliary storage device 34 may store the above program. The auxiliary storage device 34 stores data used when the processor 31 performs various processing, data generated by the processing in the processor 31, various setting values, and the like.

  The program stored in the ROM 32 or the auxiliary storage device 34 includes a program for executing processing described later. As an example, the information terminal device 30 is transferred to a user or an administrator of the information terminal device 30 without the program being stored in the ROM 32 or the auxiliary storage device 34. Then, the program separately transferred to the user or the administrator is written in the auxiliary storage device 34 under the operation of the user or the administrator. However, the information terminal device 30 may be transferred to the user or the administrator in a state where the program is stored in the ROM 32 or the auxiliary storage device 34. The above-mentioned transfer of the program can be realized, for example, by recording the program on a removable storage medium such as a magnetic disk, a magneto-optical disk, an optical disk, or a semiconductor memory, or by downloading the program via a network NW.

The communication interface 35 is an interface for the information terminal device 30 to communicate via a network NW or the like. The communication interface 35 is an example of a communication device. The processor 31 that controls the communication interface 35 is an example of a communication control unit that controls the communication unit. The processor 31 functions as an example of an acquisition unit in cooperation with the communication interface 35.
The antenna 36 receives a radio wave transmitted from the transmitting device 60 and the like.

  The touch panel 37 is formed by stacking a display such as a liquid crystal display or an organic EL display and a pointing device by touch input. The display included in the touch panel 37 functions as a display device that displays a screen for notifying the operator of the information terminal device 30 of various types of information. Further, the touch panel 37 functions as an input device that receives a touch operation by the operator. The display of the touch panel 37 is an example of a display device. The processor 31 that controls the touch panel 37 is an example of a display control unit that controls the display device. The processor 31 functions as an example of a display unit in cooperation with the touch panel 37.

  The bus 38 includes a control bus, an address bus, a data bus, and the like, and transmits signals transmitted and received by each unit of the information terminal device 30.

  The digital signage 40 is installed in a station yard, a station concourse, a station platform, a platform door, a train, and the like. Further, the digital signage 40 may be built in a home door. The digital signage 40 includes, for example, a processor 41, a ROM 42, a RAM 43, an auxiliary storage device 44, a communication interface 45, and a display 46. These components are connected by a bus 47 or the like. The digital signage 40 is an example of a guide device.

  The processor 41 corresponds to a central part of a computer that performs processing such as arithmetic and control necessary for the operation of the digital signage 40. The processor 41 controls each unit to realize various functions of the digital signage 40 based on a program such as system software, application software, or firmware stored in the ROM 42 or the auxiliary storage device 44 or the like. Note that part or all of the program may be incorporated in a circuit of the processor 41. The processor 41 is, for example, a CPU, MPU, SoC, DSP, GPU, ASIC, PLD, or FPGA. Alternatively, the processor 41 is a combination of a plurality of these.

  The ROM 42 corresponds to a main storage device of a computer having the processor 41 as a center. The ROM 42 is a nonvolatile memory used exclusively for reading data. The ROM 42 stores the above program. In addition, the ROM 42 stores data used by the processor 41 to perform various processes, various set values, and the like.

  The RAM 43 corresponds to a main storage device of a computer having the processor 41 as a center. The RAM 43 is a memory used for reading and writing data. The RAM 43 is used as a so-called work area for temporarily storing data used when the processor 41 performs various processes.

The auxiliary storage device 44 corresponds to an auxiliary storage device of a computer having the processor 41 as a center. The auxiliary storage device 44 is, for example, an EEPROM, an HDD, an SSD, or an eMMC. The auxiliary storage device 44 may store the above program. The auxiliary storage device 44 stores data used by the processor 41 to perform various processes, data generated by the process of the processor 41, various set values, and the like.
The auxiliary storage device 44 stores a station ID of a station where the digital signage 40 is installed. Alternatively, the auxiliary storage device 44 stores the train ID of the train on which the digital signage 40 is installed.

  The program stored in the ROM 42 or the auxiliary storage device 44 includes a program for executing processing described later. As an example, the digital signage 40 is transferred to a manager of the digital signage 40 in a state where the program is stored in the ROM 42 or the auxiliary storage device 44. However, the digital signage 40 may be transferred to the administrator or the like without the program being stored in the ROM 42 or the auxiliary storage device 44. Further, the digital signage 40 may be transferred to the administrator or the like in a state where a program different from the program is stored in the ROM 42 or the auxiliary storage device 44. Then, a program for executing a process to be described later may be separately transferred to the administrator or the like, and may be written to the ROM 42 or the auxiliary storage device 44 under the operation of the administrator or a service person. At this time, the transfer of the program can be realized by recording the program on a removable storage medium such as a magnetic disk, a magneto-optical disk, an optical disk, or a semiconductor memory, or by downloading the program via a network NW.

  The communication interface 45 is an interface for the digital signage 40 to communicate via a network NW or the like. The communication interface 45 is an example of a communication device. The processor 41 that controls the communication interface 45 is an example of a communication control unit that controls the communication unit. The processor 41 functions as an example of an acquisition unit in cooperation with the communication interface 45.

  The display 46 displays a screen for notifying the operator of the digital signage 40 of various information. The display 46 is, for example, a display such as a liquid crystal display or an organic EL (electro-luminescence) display. The display 46 is an example of a display device. The processor 41 that controls the display 46 is an example of a display control unit that controls the display device. Further, the processor 41 functions as an example of a display unit in cooperation with the display 46.

  The bus 47 includes a control bus, an address bus, a data bus, and the like, and transmits signals transmitted and received by each unit of the digital signage 40.

  The camera 50 captures an image. The image captured by the camera 50 may be a still image or a moving image. The camera 50 is installed, for example, in each railway vehicle and at a ticket gate and a platform of each station. Further, the camera 50 transmits the captured image data to the image processing server 10. Note that the image data includes the date and time when the image was taken and the camera ID. The camera ID (identifier) is identification information uniquely assigned to each camera 50.

  The transmitting device 60 transmits a radio wave or the like from which the information terminal device 30 can acquire position information. The transmitting device 60 is, for example, a beacon using BLE (Bluetooth (registered trademark) low energy). Alternatively, the transmitting device 60 transmits a radio wave of a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) such as an indoor messaging system (IMES) or a global positioning system (GPS). Alternatively, transmitting device 60 is an access point that transmits Wi-fi radio waves. Alternatively, transmitting device 60 is a mobile base station.

  Hereinafter, the operation of the guidance system 1 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. Note that the contents of the processing in the following description of the operation are merely examples, and various processing capable of obtaining the same result can be appropriately used. FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process performed by the processor 11 of the image processing server 10. The processor 11 executes this processing based on, for example, a program stored in the ROM 12, the auxiliary storage device 14, or the like. FIGS. 4 and 5 are flowcharts illustrating an example of processing by the processor 21 of the distribution server 20. The processor 21 executes this processing based on a program stored in the ROM 22 or the auxiliary storage device 24, for example. FIGS. 6 and 7 are flowcharts illustrating an example of processing by the processor 31 of the information terminal device 30. The processor 31 executes this processing based on a program stored in the ROM 32 or the auxiliary storage device 34, for example. FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing by the processor 41 of the digital signage 40. The processor 41 executes this processing based on a program stored in the ROM 42 or the auxiliary storage device 44, for example. When the processor 11, the processor 21, the processor 31, or the processor 41 proceeds to the step S (N + 1) after the processing of the step SN (N is a natural number), a description for explaining this may be omitted.

First, a process of obtaining a congestion state and a congestion prediction for each train will be described.
In step S11 in FIG. 3, the processor 11 of the image processing server 10 starts receiving image data transmitted from each camera 50. The processor 11 stores the received data in the auxiliary storage device 14 or the like. The processor 11 identifies where the camera is located by the camera ID. The processor 11 performs the identification based on a database that associates the camera ID with the installation location. The database is stored in the auxiliary storage device 14, for example.

  In step S12, the processor 11 determines whether to obtain the congestion state of the station or the vehicle. If it is determined that the congestion state of the station or the vehicle is not to be obtained, the processor 11 determines No in step S12 and repeats step S12.

The processor 11 determines that the congestion status of each vehicle included in the train is to be obtained, for example, in response to the train departing from the station. Alternatively, for example, the processor 11 determines that the congestion state is to be obtained at regular intervals for each train. Alternatively, the processor 11 determines to obtain the congestion status for each train according to an instruction from the distribution server 20 or the like.
If the processor 11 determines to obtain the congestion status, the processor 11 determines Yes in step S12 and proceeds to step S13.

In step S13, the processor 11 performs image processing on the image data received from the camera 50, thereby obtaining the congestion state of the train (hereinafter, referred to as “target train”) determined to obtain the congestion state in step S12.
First, a method of obtaining the congestion status of each vehicle of the target train will be described. The processor 11 analyzes where the passenger is in the vehicle as shown in FIG. 9 by performing image processing on image data received from the camera 50 installed in the vehicle. FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of an image IM1 representing a result of the image processing. Image IM1 shows vacant seat OB1, seat OB2, and passenger OB3. The vacant seat OB1 indicates a seat where no passenger is sitting. The seat OB2 indicates a seat where a passenger is sitting. The passenger OB3 indicates a standing passenger (a passenger not sitting on a seat).

FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining how to obtain the congestion status. The processor 11 divides the vehicle into a grid as shown in FIG. Then, the processor 11 obtains the passenger filling rate for each row for the grid. Note that the filling rate indicates a ratio of passengers occupying the space in the vehicle. Therefore, the higher the filling rate, the higher the congestion rate. The processor 11 displays the obtained filling rate on the indicator OB4. The indicator OB4 indicates the filling rate of each row by a straight line. The longer the straight line, the higher the filling rate, and the shorter the straight line, the lower the filling rate. Note that there are 24 rows shown in FIG. 10 in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle. Therefore, in FIG. 10, the indicator OB4 has 24 straight lines corresponding to each column. It should be noted that the number of vehicle divisions and the number of straight lines are not limited. In addition, the indicator OB4 may indicate the filling rate other than the length of the straight line. For example, the indicator OB4 indicates the filling rate by color or color density.
Further, the processor 11 obtains the vacant seat number P1. The vacant seat number P1 is the number of vacant seats OB1. In FIG. 10, the number of empty seats P1 is 30. It should be noted that the vacant seat ratio may be used instead of the vacant seat number P1. The vacant seat number P1 or the vacant seat ratio is data indicating the vacant seat status.

In step S14, the processor 11 instructs the communication interface 15 to transmit the congestion state data of the target train to the distribution server 20. The congestion status data includes the train ID of the target train. The train ID is identification information uniquely assigned to each train. The train ID is an example of the vehicle identification information. In addition, the congestion state data includes an image IM1, an indicator OB4, the number of vacant seats P1, and vehicle identification information for each vehicle of the target train. The vehicle specifying information is information for specifying an individual vehicle. The vehicle identification information is, for example, a vehicle ID. Alternatively, the vehicle identification information is a vehicle number. The vehicle ID is identification information uniquely assigned to each vehicle. The communication interface 15 transmits the congestion status data to the distribution server 20. The transmitted congestion state data is received by the communication interface 25 of the distribution server 20.
The congestion status data is an example of congestion data indicating the status of congestion in a train. Therefore, the processor 11 functions as an example of an image processing unit that creates congestion data by performing the processing in step S13.

In step S15, the processor 11 sets the value of the variable i to 1.
In step S16, the processor 11 determines whether or not there is a target station for which congestion prediction is required. The target station is, for example, a station where the target train stops i-th from now. For example, when the value of i is 1, it is the station where the target train stops next. If the end point of the target train is the station where the target train stops at the i-th position, the processor 11 determines that the target station does not exist. Also, the processor 11 determines that the target station does not exist even when the value of i is equal to or more than the predetermined value k1. The value k1 may be a constant or a variable determined by a train type, a time zone, or the like. By providing the value k1, the number of target stations for which congestion prediction is to be obtained can be limited. In addition, the processor 11 may also exclude a station where the target train is scheduled to stop at a time after a certain time has elapsed from the current time from the target station. The reason for providing the value k1 or excluding a station scheduled to stop at a time after a certain time has elapsed is that the accuracy of the congestion prediction decreases as the farther station is, and the more the farther station, the more the congestion prediction is performed. This is because the demand for knowing decreases. If the processor 11 determines that there is no target station for which the congestion prediction is required, the processor 11 determines No in step S16 and returns to step S12.

  In step S17, the processor 11 determines the station where the target train stops i-th from now as the target station for which the congestion prediction is required.

In step S18, the processor 11 obtains a congestion prediction of the target train at the target station for each car of the target train. The congestion prediction indicates, for example, the congestion status immediately after the target train departs from the target station. The processor 11, for example, calculates the congestion status obtained in step S13 and the image data received from the camera 50 installed in the stations from the station where the target train stops first to the station where it stops i-th. To obtain a congestion prediction. The processor 11 obtains the congestion degree at each station and the congestion degree in front of each door at the position where each vehicle of the target train stops by, for example, performing image processing on the image data. The processor 11 obtains a congestion prediction using these congestion degrees. Further, the processor 11 may calculate the congestion prediction in consideration of the past congestion situation. Data on the past congestion status is stored in, for example, the auxiliary storage device 14. The processor 11 indicates, for example, the result of the congestion prediction by generating an indicator similar to the indicator OB4.
In step S19, the processor 11 increases the value of the variable i by one.

In step S20, the processor 11 instructs the communication interface 15 to transmit the congestion prediction data at the target station of the target train to the distribution server 20. The congestion prediction data includes the train ID of the target train and the station ID of the target station. The communication interface 15 transmits the congestion prediction data to the distribution server 20. The transmitted congestion prediction data is received by the communication interface 25 of the distribution server 20. After the process in step S20, the processor 11 returns to step S16.
The congestion prediction data is an example of congestion data indicating a congestion state in the train. Therefore, the processor 11 functions as an example of an image processing unit that creates congestion data by performing the processing in step S18.

  On the other hand, the processor 21 of the distribution server 20 waits for the communication interface 25 to receive the congestion state data or the congestion prediction data in step S21 in FIG. If the congestion status data or the congestion prediction data is received, the processor 21 determines Yes in step S21 and proceeds to step S22.

  In step S22, the processor 21 stores the congestion status data or the congestion prediction data received in step S21 in the auxiliary storage device 24 or the like. The processor 21 stores the congestion status data in association with the train ID included in the congestion status data. Further, the processor 21 stores the congestion prediction data in association with the train ID and the station ID included in the congestion prediction data. If the received congestion status data and the congestion status data having the same train ID are already stored in the auxiliary storage device 24, the processor 21 overwrites the old congestion status data with the received congestion status data, for example. I do. Further, when the congestion prediction data having the same train ID and station ID as the received congestion prediction data is already stored in the auxiliary storage device 24, the processor 21 may, for example, use the received congestion prediction data with the old congestion prediction data. Overwrite data. Alternatively, the processor 21 may store the data as history data instead of overwriting old data. After the process in step S22, the processor 21 returns to step S21.

Hereinafter, a case where the guidance service is used using the information terminal device 30 will be described.
In step S51 of FIG. 6, the processor 31 of the information terminal device 30 generates an image corresponding to the top screen. Then, the processor 31 instructs the touch panel 37 to display the generated image. Upon receiving this instruction, the touch panel 37 displays the top screen.

  The top screen includes, for example, a departure station input field, a destination station input field, a search button, and the like. The departure station input field is a field in which the operator of the information terminal device 30 inputs the station name of the station that the user wants to board. The destination station input field is a field in which the operator inputs a destination station name. The search button is a button for the operator to operate when starting a route search.

  In step S52, the processor 31 waits for an operation for instructing the start of the route search to be performed. The operator of the information terminal device 30 inputs a station name in the departure station input field and the destination station input field. Then, the operator operates the search button. If the search button is operated in a state where the station name is input in the departure station input field and the destination station input field, the processor 31 determines that the operation for instructing the start of the route search has been performed. If the processor 31 determines that the operation for instructing the start of the route search has been performed, the determination is Yes in step S52, and the process proceeds to step S53.

  In step S53, the processor 31 generates a search request. The search request is for instructing a search for a route from the departure station to the destination station and transmitting the result. The search request includes the content entered in the departure station entry field and the content entered in the destination station entry field. The content input in the departure station input field and the content input in the destination station input field are examples of destination information indicating a departure place and a destination. After generating the search request, the processor 31 instructs the communication interface 35 to transmit the search request to the distribution server 20. In response to this instruction, the communication interface 35 transmits the search request to the distribution server 20. The transmitted search request is received by the communication interface 25 of the distribution server 20.

  On the other hand, in step S31 of FIG. 5, the processor 21 of the distribution server 20 determines whether the search request has been received by the communication interface 25. If the search request has not been received, the processor 21 determines No in step S31 and proceeds to step S32.

  In step S32, the processor 21 determines whether or not the list request has been received by the communication interface 25. If the list request is not received, the processor 21 determines No in step S32 and proceeds to step S33.

  In step S33, the processor 21 determines whether a vehicle request has been received by the communication interface 25. If the vehicle request has not been received, the processor 21 determines No in step S33 and proceeds to step S34.

  In step S34, the processor 21 determines whether a train request has been received by the communication interface 25. If a train request has not been received, the processor 21 determines No in step S34 and returns to step S31. Thus, the processor 21 repeats steps S31 to S34 until a search request, a list request, a vehicle request, or a train request is received. The vehicle request and the train request will be described later.

If the search request is received in the standby state of steps S31 to S34, the processor 21 determines that the result of step S31 is Yes, and proceeds to step S35.
In step S35, the processor 21 searches for a transfer route from the departure station to the destination station included in the received search request. Note that the processor 21 obtains one or a plurality of routes as search results (search results). As described above, the processor 21 functions as an example of the search unit that searches for a route by performing the process of step S35.

  In step S36, the processor 21 instructs the communication interface 25 to transmit the search result obtained in step S35 to the information terminal device 30. In response to this instruction, the communication interface 25 transmits the search result to the information terminal device 30. The transmitted search result is received by the communication interface 35 of the information terminal device 30. After the process of step S36, the processor 21 returns to step S31.

  On the other hand, in step S54 of FIG. 6, the processor 31 of the information terminal device 30 waits for the search result to be received by the communication interface 35. If the search result is received, the processor 31 determines Yes in step S54 and proceeds to step S55.

  In step S55, the processor 31 generates an image corresponding to the selection screen. Then, the processor 31 instructs the touch panel 37 to display the generated image. In response to this instruction, the touch panel 37 displays a selection screen.

  The selection screen includes one or a plurality of routes. The route is based on the search result received in step S54. The selection screen is a screen for the operator of the information terminal device 30 to select a desired route from one or a plurality of routes.

  In step S56, the processor 31 waits for a route to be selected. The operator of the information terminal device 30 performs an operation of selecting one route from the routes displayed on the selection screen. In response to the operation, the processor 31 determines Yes in step S56, and proceeds to step S57.

  In step S57, the processor 31 acquires its own positional information by receiving the radio wave transmitted from the transmitting device 60 by the antenna 36. Note that the processor 31 may acquire the position information by another method.

  In step S58, the processor 31 generates a list request. The list request requests the distribution server 20 to transmit information necessary for displaying a list screen described later. The list request includes the route selected in step S56 and the position information acquired in step S57. It is assumed that the route selected in step S56 is a route in which the train T1 is boarded from the station A to the station B, the train T2 is transferred at the station B, and the train T2 is boarded from the station B to the station C. After generating the list request, the processor 31 instructs the communication interface 35 to transmit the list request to the distribution server 20. In response to this instruction, the communication interface 35 transmits the list request to the distribution server 20. The transmitted list request is received by the communication interface 25 of the distribution server 20.

On the other hand, if the list request is received when the processor 21 of the distribution server 20 is in the standby state in steps S31 to S34 in FIG. 5, the determination is Yes in step S32, and the process proceeds to step S37.
In step S37, the processor 21 acquires map data of the boarding station, the getting off station, and the transfer station from the auxiliary storage device 24. Here, the boarding station is station A. The getting off station is C station. The transfer station is B station. Further, the processor 21 acquires, from the auxiliary storage device 24, congestion status data and congestion prediction data of the train to be boarded. Here, the processor 21 acquires the congestion state data of the train T1 or the congestion prediction data of the train T1 at the station A and the congestion prediction data of the train T2 at the station B. The processor 21 determines which of the congestion status data of the train T1 and the congestion prediction data at the station A of the train T1 is to be acquired, according to the position of the train T1. The processor 21 acquires the congestion status, for example, when the train T1 has departed from the station in front of the station A. Then, the processor 21 acquires a congestion prediction before the train T1 departs from the station in front of the station A. Alternatively, the processor 21 acquires the congestion prediction when the vehicle is more than a certain number of stations away from the station A. Then, the processor 21 acquires the congestion status when the vehicle A is not separated from the station by more than a certain number of stations.

  In step S38, the processor 21 performs a process of adding an object such as a mark to the position indicated by the position information included in the list request received in step S32 to the map data of the boarding station obtained in step S37. In addition, an object such as an arrow indicating what route should be used to transfer when the vehicle closest to the position indicated by the position information is boarded is added to the map data of the transfer station acquired in step S37. Perform processing to add. Note that the processor 21 does not perform these processes when the position information indicates a position outside the map.

  In step S39, the processor 21 generates list information. The list information causes the information terminal device 30 to display a list screen described later. The list information includes information necessary for generating a list screen described later. The list information includes the map data obtained in step S37 obtained by adding the processing in step S38, and the congestion status data and the congestion prediction data obtained in step S37. After generating the list information, the processor 21 instructs the communication interface 25 to transmit the list information to the information terminal device 30. In response to this instruction, the communication interface 25 transmits the list information to the information terminal device 30. The transmitted list information is received by the communication interface 35 of the information terminal device 30. After the process in step S39, the processor 21 returns to step S31.

  On the other hand, in step S59 of FIG. 6, the processor 31 of the information terminal device 30 waits for the list information to be received by the communication interface 35. When the list information is received, the processor 31 determines Yes in step S59 and proceeds to step S60 in FIG.

  In step S60, the processor 31 generates an image corresponding to the list screen SC1 as shown in FIG. Then, the processor 31 instructs the touch panel 37 to display the generated image. In response to this instruction, the touch panel 37 displays the list screen SC1. Further, the processor 31 resets and starts a timer for measuring time together with the display of the list screen.

  FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of the list screen SC1 displayed on the touch panel 37. The list screen SC1 shows the congestion status of each train from the departure station to the destination station as a list. The list screen SC1 includes, for example, map images IM11 to IM14, a mark OB11, an arrow OB12, a plurality of indicators OB13, a character string ST11, a character string ST12, a plurality of vehicle selection buttons B11, and an end button B12.

The map image IM11 is an image showing a map of the platform of Station A where the train T1 arrives and departs.
The map image IM12 is an image showing a map of the platform of Station B where the train T1 arrives and departs.
The map image IM13 is an image showing a map of the platform of Station B where the train T2 arrives and departs.
The map image IM14 is an image showing a map of the platform of the station C where the train T2 arrives and departs.

The mark OB11 indicates a position where the information terminal device 30 is located. That is, the mark OB11 indicates the position where the operator of the information terminal device 30 is located.
Arrow OB12 indicates what route the operator should transfer at the transfer station.
Each of the plurality of indicators OB13 indicates a congestion prediction of each vehicle of the train T2 at the station B.

The character string ST11 indicates the number of vacant seats of each vehicle of the train T1.
The character string ST12 indicates the number of vacant seats of each vehicle of the train T2.

Each of the plurality of vehicle selection buttons B11 is a button corresponding to each vehicle of the train T1. The vehicle selection button B11 is a button operated by the operator of the information terminal device 30 when checking the details of the congestion status of each vehicle of the train T1. The appearance of the vehicle selection button B11 is the same as the indicator OB4 for each vehicle. Thereby, the congestion degree of each vehicle of the train T1 can be known.
The end button B12 is a button for the operator of the information terminal device 30 to operate when ending the display of the list screen SC1.

  In step S61, the processor 31 determines whether or not an operation to end the display of the list screen SC1 has been performed. That is, the processor 31 determines whether a predetermined operation such as operating the end button B12 has been performed. If the operation of ending the display of the list screen is not performed, the processor 31 determines No in step S61 and proceeds to step S62.

  In step S62, the processor 31 determines whether an operation of selecting a vehicle has been performed. That is, the processor 31 determines whether a predetermined operation such as operating the vehicle selection button B11 has been performed. If the operation of selecting the vehicle has not been performed, the processor 31 determines No in step S62 and proceeds to step S63.

  In step S63, the processor 31 determines whether or not the elapsed time indicated by the timer has exceeded a certain value. If the elapsed time indicated by the timer is not equal to or longer than the predetermined value, the processor 31 determines No in step S63 and returns to step S61. Thus, the processor 31 repeats the steps S61 to S63 until an operation for ending the display of the list screen, an operation for selecting the vehicle, or the elapsed time indicated by the timer becomes equal to or longer than a certain value.

  If an operation to end the display of the list screen is performed in the standby state in steps S61 to S63, the processor 31 determines Yes in step S61 and returns to step S51 in FIG.

  If the elapsed time indicated by the timer is equal to or longer than a certain value when the processor 31 is in the standby state in steps S61 to S63, the determination is Yes in step S63, and the process returns to step S57 in FIG. Thus, the processor 31 performs the processing from step S57 to step S60 in FIG. 7 at regular intervals. Thus, each time the processing from step S57 in FIG. 6 to step S60 in FIG. 7 is performed, the position of the mark OB11 on the map image IM11 is updated to the one based on the latest position information.

If an operation to select a vehicle is performed in the standby state of steps S61 to S63, the processor 31 determines Yes in step S62 and proceeds to step S64.
At step S64, the processor 31 generates a vehicle request. The vehicle request requests the distribution server 20 to transmit the congestion status of the selected vehicle. The vehicle request includes vehicle identification information for identifying the selected vehicle and a station ID. After generating the vehicle request, the processor 31 instructs the communication interface 35 to transmit the vehicle request to the distribution server 20. In response to this instruction, the communication interface 35 transmits the vehicle request to the distribution server 20. The transmitted vehicle request is received by the communication interface 25 of the distribution server 20.

On the other hand, if the vehicle request is received during the standby state of steps S31 to S34 in FIG. 5, the processor 21 of the distribution server 20 determines Yes in step S33 and proceeds to step S40.
In step S40, the processor 21 acquires from the auxiliary storage device 24 the congestion state of the vehicle specified in the vehicle request received in step S33. The congestion state of the vehicle specified in the vehicle request is a congestion state of the vehicle specified by the vehicle specifying information included in the vehicle request.

  In step S41, the processor 21 generates vehicle information. The vehicle information includes the congestion status or the congestion prediction obtained in step S40. After generating the vehicle information, the processor 21 instructs the communication interface 35 to transmit the vehicle information to the distribution server 20. In response to this instruction, the communication interface 35 transmits the vehicle information to the distribution server 20. The transmitted vehicle information is received by the communication interface 25 of the distribution server 20. After the process in step S41, the processor 21 returns to step S31.

  On the other hand, the processor 31 of the information terminal device 30 waits for the vehicle information to be received by the communication interface 25 in step S65 of FIG. If the vehicle information is received, the processor 31 determines Yes in step S65 and proceeds to step S66.

  In step S66, the processor 31 generates an image corresponding to the vehicle screen SC2 in FIG. The vehicle screen SC2 displays the congestion state data included in the vehicle information. The processor 31 instructs the touch panel 37 to display the generated image. In response to this instruction, the touch panel 37 displays the vehicle screen SC2.

FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating an example of the vehicle screen SC2 displayed on the touch panel 37. Vehicle screen SC2 includes image IM1, character string ST21, indicator OB4, and return button B21. The vehicle screen SC2 shown in FIG. 12 is a vehicle selection screen SC2 displayed when the vehicle selection button B11 corresponding to the fifth train of the train T1 is operated on the list screen SC1 of FIG.
The character string ST21 indicates the number of empty seats P1.

  In step S67, the processor 31 waits for the operation of the return button B21. If the return button is operated, the processor 31 determines Yes in step S67 and returns to step S57 in FIG.

Hereinafter, a case where the guidance service is used using the digital signage 40 will be described.
In step S71, the processor 41 generates a train request. The train request requests the distribution server 20 to transmit the congestion status and the congestion prediction for the specified train. The train request includes the station ID stored in the auxiliary storage device 44. Alternatively, when the digital signage 40 is installed in the train, the information includes the station ID of the next stop station. Further, the train request includes, for example, the train IDs of the first to k2 trains in order from the next train among the trains stopping at a specific platform. The value k2 is a predetermined value. However, the processor 41 may not include the train ID of the train whose arrival time at the platform is a predetermined time or more later in the train request. Further, when the digital signage 40 is installed at a home door or the like, the processor 41 may include vehicle identification information indicating the number of eyes of the train where the home door is installed. After generating the train request, the processor 41 instructs the communication interface 45 to transmit the train request to the distribution server 20. In response to the instruction, the communication interface 45 transmits the train request to the distribution server 20. The transmitted train request is received by the communication interface 25 of the distribution server 20.

On the other hand, if the processor 21 of the distribution server 20 receives the train request while in the standby state of steps S31 to S34 of FIG. 5, it determines Yes in step S34 and proceeds to step S42.
In step S42, the processor 21 acquires from the auxiliary storage device 24 the congestion status data or the congestion prediction data of each train specified in the train request received in step S34. The congestion status of the vehicle specified in the train request is specified by the train ID and the station ID included in the train request.

In step S43, the processor 21 generates train information. The train information includes the congestion status data and the congestion prediction data obtained in step S42. After generating the train information, the processor 21 instructs the communication interface 25 to transmit the train information to the digital signage 40. In response to this instruction, the communication interface 25 transmits the train information to the digital signage 40. The transmitted train information is received by the communication interface 45 of the digital signage 40. After the process in step S43, the processor 21 returns to step S31.
As described above, the communication interface 35 transmits the congestion data in steps S36, S39, S41, and S43. Therefore, the communication interface 35 is an example of a communication unit that transmits congestion data.

  On the other hand, the processor 41 of the digital signage 40 waits for the train information to be received by the communication interface 45 in step S72 of FIG. If train information is received, the processor 41 determines Yes in step S72 and proceeds to step S73.

  In step S73, the processor 41 generates an image corresponding to the train screen. Then, the processor 41 instructs the display 46 to display the generated image. In response to this instruction, the display 46 displays a train screen.

  The train screen displays the congestion status and the congestion prediction based on the congestion status data and the congestion prediction data included in the train information received in step S42. Therefore, on the train screen, as an example, the congestion status of the train that stops next at a specific platform and the congestion prediction of the train that stops from the second to k2th trains are displayed. When the digital signage 40 is installed at a home door or the like, the congestion state data displayed on the train screen may include the image IM1 of the vehicle that stops at the location where the digital signage 40 is installed. .

  In step S74, the processor 41 determines whether to update the train screen. If the processor 41 determines not to update the train screen, it determines No in step S74 and repeats step S74. The processor 41 determines to update the train screen, for example, when a certain time has elapsed after performing the processing in step S73. Alternatively, the processor 41 determines to update the train screen in response to the arrival of the train at the platform. Alternatively, the processor 41 determines to update the train screen according to the departure of the train from the platform. When determining to update the train screen, the processor 41 determines Yes in step S74 and returns to step S71. Thereby, the display content of the train screen is updated to the latest one.

  According to the guidance system 1 of the embodiment, the image processing server 10 obtains a congestion state in the vehicle based on an image of the inside of the vehicle. Then, distribution server 20 transmits the congestion status to information terminal device 30 or digital signage 40. Thereby, the user of the information terminal device 30 or the digital signage 40 can know the congestion status of the vehicle.

  According to the guidance system 1 of the embodiment, the image processing server 10 calculates the congestion prediction in the vehicle based on the image of the inside of the vehicle and the image of the inside of the station. Then, distribution server 20 transmits the congestion prediction to information terminal device 30 or digital signage 40. Thereby, the user of the information terminal device 30 or the digital signage 40 can know the congestion prediction of the vehicle.

  Further, according to the guidance system 1 of the embodiment, the image processing server 10 transmits the number of vacant seats of the vehicle to the information terminal device 30 or the digital signage 40. Thereby, the user of the information terminal device 30 or the digital signage 40 can know the number of vacant seats of the vehicle.

  Further, according to the guidance system 1 of the embodiment, the image processing server 10 indicates the congestion status and the congestion prediction by the filling rate or the like. Thereby, the user of the information terminal device 30 or the digital signage 40 can easily understand the congestion state of the vehicle.

  According to the guidance system 1 of the embodiment, the distribution server 20 searches for a route to a departure station and a destination station. Then, distribution server 20 transmits data indicating the state of congestion of the trains on the route to information terminal device 30 or digital signage 40. Thereby, the user of the information terminal device 30 or the digital signage 40 can know at a time the transfer information from the departure station to the destination station and the status of the congestion of the train from the departure station to the destination station.

  Further, according to the guidance system 1 of the embodiment, the information terminal device 30 or the digital signage 40 acquires and displays data indicating the state of congestion of the train from the distribution server 20. Thereby, the user of the information terminal device 30 or the digital signage 40 can know the congestion status of the vehicle.

  Further, according to the guidance system 1 of the embodiment, the digital signage 40 is installed in a station. Thus, the user of the station can see the digital signage 40 to see the congestion of the train arriving at the station. Then, the user of the station can see the congestion situation and delay the train to take. This leads to a reduction in the congestion of the train.

  Further, according to the guidance system 1 of the embodiment, the digital signage 40 is installed on a home door. Thus, the train user can see the digital signage 40 to know the congestion status of each train and each door of the train. Then, the user of the station can change the vehicle to be taken or the door to be taken while watching the congestion situation. For this reason, it is possible to prevent the congestion degree of the train from being biased.

  Further, according to the guidance system 1 of the embodiment, the digital signage 40 is installed in the train. Thereby, the passengers of the train can see the digital signage 40 to know the congestion status of each train that can be changed at the station where the train stops. Then, the passengers of the train can select the train to be changed while watching the congestion situation. For this reason, the degree of congestion of the train is reduced.

The above embodiment can be modified as follows.
In the guidance system 1 of the above embodiment, the information terminal device 30 acquires the congestion status of the train on the route from the distribution server 20 and displays it. However, the information terminal device 30 may be able to acquire and display the congestion status of an arbitrary train from the distribution server 20.

  The guidance system of the embodiment can be used for transportation other than railways, such as a bus. A guidance system used for transportation other than railways provides guidance on the congestion status of vehicles used in the transportation instead of the train. Further, the guidance system of the embodiment can also be used in a case where a plurality of types of transportation are mixed such as a railway and a bus.

  The processor 11, the processor 21, the processor 31, and the processor 41 may realize a part or all of the processing realized by the program in the above embodiment by a hardware configuration of a circuit.

  In the above embodiment, the guidance system 1 includes two types of servers, the image processing server 10 and the distribution server 20. However, the guidance system of the embodiment may include one type of server that also functions as the two types of servers, instead of the two types of servers, the image processing server 10 and the distribution server 20.

  Although several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are provided by way of example and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These new embodiments can be implemented in other various forms, and various omissions, replacements, and changes can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included in the scope and gist of the invention, and are also included in the invention described in the claims and their equivalents.

  1 ... Guidance system, 10 ... Image processing server, 11,21,31,41 ... Processor, 12,22,32,42 ... ROM, 13,23,33,43 ... RAM, 14,24, 34, 44 ... auxiliary storage device, 15, 25, 35, 45 ... communication interface, 16, 26, 38, 47 ... bus, 20 ... distribution server, 30 ... information terminal device, 36 ... antenna, 37 ... Touch panel, 40 ... Digital signage, 46 ... Display, 50 ... Camera, 60 ... Transmission device

Claims (7)

An image processing unit that creates congestion data indicating a congestion situation in the vehicle by analyzing an image of the inside of the vehicle,
A communication unit that transmits the congestion data corresponding to the vehicle identification information of the vehicle.   The image processing unit analyzes an image photographed inside the vehicle and an image photographed inside a station where the vehicle is scheduled to start, so that the congestion in the vehicle after the vehicle starts departing from the station is analyzed. The server device according to claim 1, wherein the congestion data indicating a prediction of a situation is created.   The server device according to claim 1, wherein the congestion data includes data indicating a vacant seat status in the vehicle.   The server device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the congestion data indicates a congestion state in the vehicle by a ratio of a passenger occupying a space in the vehicle. The communication unit receives destination information indicating a departure place and a destination,
A search unit that searches for a route indicating a transfer of the vehicle from the departure point to the destination based on the destination information,
The server device according to claim 1, wherein the communication unit transmits the congestion data on the vehicle on the route. By transmitting the vehicle identification information of the vehicle to the server device, from the server device, an acquisition unit that acquires congestion data indicating a congestion state in the vehicle corresponding to the vehicle identification information,
A display unit for displaying a congestion status indicated by the congestion data. A computer provided in a guide device including a communication device and a display device,
Controlling the communication device to transmit the vehicle identification information of the vehicle to the server device; and receiving congestion data transmitted from the server device and indicating congestion status in the vehicle corresponding to the vehicle identification information. Controlling the communication device, a communication control unit,
A program functioning as a display control unit that controls a display device to display a congestion state indicated by the congestion data.