JP2022033320A - Lending vehicle management system - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a novel technology for allowing lending of a vehicle to a user by using a portable terminal of the user to whom the vehicle is lent and a short-range radio communication unit mounted on the vehicle.

SOLUTION: A system 10 managing a plurality of vehicles 12 has short-range radio communication units 32 mounted on the vehicles and a management server 50. A user selects and reserves any one of the vehicles on a portable terminal 90. The portable terminal can perform short-range radio communication with the short-range radio communication unit and can perform long-range radio communication with the management server. When the user approaches any one of the vehicles and thus the portable terminal performs short-range communication with the short-range radio communication unit and when the any one of the vehicles is a reserved vehicle, the system transmits an unlocking signal to a lock device mounted on the reserved vehicle and remotely unlocks the lock device.

SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

COPYRIGHT: (C)2022,JPO&INPIT

Description

The present invention relates to a technique for managing a plurality of vehicles that can be rented to a user, and more particularly to a technique for managing those vehicles using a user's mobile terminal.

There is already a technology for managing a rental target, which is an example of a movable property existing in a station that is a real estate, by using a mobile terminal carried by the user of the rental target.

One example is a service that lends and returns a rental object that is a movable property to a user at any place or station (or port) that is real estate. Vehicles that move people and luggage exist as rental targets, and the types of vehicles include automobiles, bicycles, and motorcycles.

The vehicle rental service of renting and returning rental vehicles is a round trip method in which the vehicle must be returned at the same station where the rental vehicle was rented, and the vehicle is returned at a place other than the place where the rental vehicle was rented. It is classified as a one-way system that is permitted.

By the way, as a naming method for rental vehicles, for example, in the case of bicycles, there are cases where it is called "rent-a-bicycle" or "share cycle", but there is a substantial difference in meaning between the two. not exist. In this specification, for convenience, a bicycle as a rental vehicle is referred to as a "rent-a-bicycle" or a "rental bicycle".

Similarly, automobiles are sometimes referred to as "rent-a-cars" or "share cars," but there is no substantial difference in meaning between the two. In this specification, for convenience, a bicycle as a rental vehicle is referred to as a "rent-a-car".

In addition, the one-way vehicle rental service is permitted to rent and return at any station (or port), and to rent and return at any location. It is classified as a free floating type.

By the way, if the vehicle rental service is carried out by a method in which the rental vehicle is stored in any station (whether it is a round trip method or a one-way method), the rented vehicle is rented. Should be returned to one of the stations by the user after its use.

However, if the user for some reason forgets or fails to return the rented rental vehicle to any station, the rented rental vehicle will be left (discarded) in a place other than the station. there is a possibility.

Therefore, the rental company needs an additional work of searching for the abandoned rental vehicle and collecting it at any station.

On the other hand, when the vehicle rental service is implemented by the above-mentioned free-floating one-way method, the rented vehicle is returned by the user to one of the stations, that is, a fixed place. There is no.

Therefore, as a rental company that provides a vehicle rental service using a free-floating one-way method, the place where the user actually returned the rented rental vehicle (here, the act of "returning" is any of the rental vehicles. Since it does not correspond to the act of collecting at the station, it is necessary to search for the act of "leaving" from the viewpoint of the station type one-way system).

Thanks to the search, rental companies that provide vehicle rental services in a free-floating one-way system are different from the place where the return was actually made (apparent return station) and the rental vehicle where the return was made. This time, it is possible to guide the user to other potential users as a place (apparent rental station) where the rental is possible.

Against the background of the circumstances described above, some techniques for searching for abandoned rental vehicles have already been proposed.

For example, in the system described in Patent Document 1, an illegally parked bicycle is searched for as an illegally parked bicycle, and the position where the illegally parked bicycle is left is assigned to a virtual station different from the actual station. Route guidance is provided to another potential user to arrive at the virtual station and use the illegally parked bicycle as a rental cycle. The virtual station is erased on the computer when the illegally parked bicycle is rented to the user. The illegally parked bicycle is collected at one of the actual stations by a user other than the first user.

Further, in the system described in Patent Document 1, an in-vehicle device is mounted on a rental cycle. The in-vehicle device has a position acquisition unit (GPS (Global Positioning System)) for acquiring the position of the rental cycle. The user uses the terminal device. The terminal device also has a position acquisition unit like the rental cycle.

In the system described in Patent Document 2, an IC chip (an example of a transmitter) is mounted on a bicycle. Data is read from the IC chip by a terminal owned by the administrator (an example of a mobile terminal, but not a user's mobile terminal).

The terminal has GPS. The terminal acquires position information by the GPS of the terminal at the timing of reading data from the IC chip. The terminal communicates with a bicycle parking bicycle management device (an example of a management server) via a terminal installed in the manager's management room.

According to the system described in Patent Document 2, when the position information transmitted from the terminal to the bicycle parking bicycle management device indicates the same place for a long period of time, the manager tells the manager that the bicycle is an illegally parked bicycle. Can be confirmed as.

In the system described in Patent Document 3, a position acquisition unit (PHS or GPS) is mounted on the bicycle, and the bicycle position acquired by the position acquisition unit is directly transmitted to the server without going through the user's mobile terminal. To.

In the system described in Patent Document 4, in the field of car sharing in which a car is shared among a plurality of users instead of a bicycle, the station in which the car is rented and / or returned to the user is uniquely identified. A first transmitter that transmits a signal is installed, and a second transmitter that transmits a unique identification signal is installed in the automobile. In this system, the user is permitted to rent and / or return the vehicle based on the signal received from the first transmitter and the signal received from the second transmitter by the user's mobile terminal.

Further, in the system described in Patent Document 4, the user is in a state where the user's mobile terminal receives a signal from the second transmitter but does not receive the signal from the first transmitter. Is determined to be about to get off.

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2012-181773 Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2005-352867 Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2003-232152 Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2017-068449

According to the system described in Patent Document 1, the existence and location of the abandoned rental vehicle are detected, and the detected abandoned rental vehicle is rented to another user, thereby without bothering the rental company. Abandoned rental vehicles are collected.

However, in the system described in Patent Document 1, in order to detect the location of the neglected rental vehicle, it is necessary to mount GPS on the rental vehicle. In this system, GPS is also mounted on the user's terminal device, but in this system, it is not possible to detect the neglected position of the rental vehicle by using the GPS mounted on the terminal device.

Similarly, even in the system described in Patent Document 3, the position of the bicycle cannot be detected by using the GPS mounted on the user's mobile terminal.

On the other hand, according to the system described in Patent Document 2, a GPS mounted on a terminal owned by a manager is used to detect the location of an abandoned rental vehicle. As a result, it is not necessary to mount GPS on the rental vehicle.

However, in the system described in Patent Document 2, in order to detect the location of the neglected rental vehicle, neither the mobile terminal of the user of the rental vehicle can be used nor the GPS of the mobile terminal can be used. Therefore, in this system, even if an abandoned rental vehicle appears, the administrator cannot notice the existence of the abandoned rental vehicle until the administrator, not the user, approaches the abandoned rental vehicle.

Further, in the system described in Patent Document 4, the management server can detect the possibility that the vehicle gets off the vehicle, that is, is left unattended, based on the state of the signal received by the user's mobile terminal from the above-mentioned two transmitters. However, in this system, when the management server detects that the car may be left unattended, the management server remotely forcibly locks the door of the car and the user is free to do so. It makes it impossible to unlock the car, which prevents the user from leaving the car unattended.

Therefore, since this Patent Document 4 employs a technique for preventing the automobile from being left unattended, it does not even describe the necessity of detecting the unattended position of the automobile. That is, there is no reference or suggestion in this document to measure the neglected position of the vehicle using the GPS of the user's mobile terminal.

On the other hand, if the position of the rental vehicle can be detected using the user's mobile terminal, for example, in a free-floating one-way rental business, when the user rents the rental vehicle at an arbitrary place. The position and the position when the user returns the rental vehicle to an arbitrary place can be detected by using the user's mobile terminal.

Based on the above findings, the present invention is a novel technology that enables the user to rent the vehicle by using the mobile terminal of the user to which the vehicle is rented and the short-range wireless communication unit mounted on the vehicle . It was made with the task of providing.

In order to solve the problem , according to one aspect of the present invention, it is a system for managing a plurality of vehicles that can be rented to a user.
The short-range wireless communication unit mounted on each of the plurality of vehicles,
With a management server that remotely manages the multiple vehicles
Including
By operating the mobile terminal, the user selects a vehicle desired to be used from the plurality of vehicles on the mobile terminal.
The mobile terminal is capable of short-range wireless communication with the short-range wireless communication unit and is capable of long-range wireless communication with the management server.
When the management server receives a signal transmitted from the mobile terminal in response to a user's operation to select one of the vehicles, the management server reserves the above-mentioned vehicle as a reserved vehicle based on the received signal. , Save the reservation contents in the memory,
In the system, since the user approaches one of the vehicles, the mobile terminal reaches a short-range communication state in which the mobile terminal performs short-range communication with the short-range wireless communication unit mounted on the one of the vehicles. In addition, when any of the vehicles exists in the memory as the reserved vehicle, the lock device mounted on the reserved vehicle is in a locked state for prohibiting the user from using the reserved vehicle. A rental vehicle management system that transmits an unlock signal to the lock device and thereby unlocks the lock device in a remote manner is provided.

Further , according to an aspect of the present invention, it is a rental target management system that enables a user to rent a rental target that is a movable property or real estate.
A short-range wireless communication unit installed in each of multiple rental targets that transmits a signal representing a unique communication ID.
A management server that uses a memory for storing a predetermined relationship between a target ID, which is an ID of each of the plurality of rental targets, and a plurality of communication IDs, is included.
The user has a mobile terminal having a function of communicating with the management server and a function of communicating with the short-range wireless communication unit.
The mobile terminal and / or the management server
The mobile terminal includes an ID conversion unit that converts a communication ID represented by a signal effectively received from the short-range wireless communication unit mounted on any rental target into the corresponding target ID according to the above relationship.
The mobile terminal is
When the mobile terminal effectively receives the signal from the short-range wireless communication unit mounted on the rental target because the user approaches one of the rental targets, the ID conversion unit is used. From the communication ID represented by the signal received from the short-range wireless communication unit, the target ID of the rental target to be rented to the user is specified as the rental target ID, and the rental target ID is transmitted to the management server. Including ID transmitter
The management server responds to receiving the rental target ID from the mobile terminal, and a rental target management system including a rental permission unit that permits a user using the mobile terminal to rent any of the rental targets. Provided.

Further, according to another aspect of the present invention, it is a rental target management method that enables the rental target to be rented to the user.
The rental target is equipped with a transmitter that emits a unique signal.
The user has a mobile terminal having a function of communicating with the management server and a function of receiving a signal from the transmitter.
The method is
When the mobile terminal effectively receives the signal from the transmitter of the rental target because the user approaches one of the rental targets, the mobile terminal receives the signal from the transmitter to the user. A lending process in which an ID to be rented is specified as a lending target ID and the lending target ID is transmitted to the management server.
The user returns the rental target rented to himself and is separated from the rental target, so that the mobile terminal does not effectively receive the signal from the transmitter of the rental target. When the transition occurs, the mobile terminal identifies the rental target ID as the return target ID from the signal received from the transmitter before the mobile terminal cannot be effectively received, and transmits the return target ID to the management server. Return process and
A simultaneous transmission process in which the management server simultaneously transmits the positions of a plurality of rental stations for renting to the mobile terminals of a plurality of potential users.
When the transition occurs, the rental target management method including the transmission step in which the mobile terminal acquires its own current position as a new rental station position and transmits the new rental station position to the management server is provided. To.

Further, according to still another aspect of the present invention, it is a rental target management method that enables the rental target to be rented to the user.
The rental target is equipped with a transmitter that emits a unique signal.
The user has a mobile terminal having a function of communicating with the management server and a function of receiving a signal from the transmitter.
The method is
When the mobile terminal effectively receives the signal from the transmitter of the rental target because the user approaches one of the rental targets, the mobile terminal receives the signal from the transmitter to the user. The rental process of specifying the rental target ID to be rented as the rental target ID and transmitting the rental target ID to the management server is included, and more optionally, it is optional.
The user returns the rental target rented to himself and is separated from the rental target, so that the mobile terminal does not effectively receive the signal from the transmitter of the rental target. When the transition occurs, the mobile terminal identifies the rental target ID as the return target ID from the signal received from the transmitter before the mobile terminal cannot be effectively received, and transmits the return target ID to the management server. Including return process
The rental target is provided with a rental target management method including real estate.

Further, according to one aspect of the present invention, it is a rental target management method that makes it possible to rent a rental target to a user.
The rental target is equipped with a transmitter that emits a unique signal.
The user has a mobile terminal having a function of communicating with the management server and a function of receiving a signal from the transmitter.
The method is
When the mobile terminal effectively receives the signal from the transmitter of the rental target because the user approaches one of the rental targets, the mobile terminal receives the signal from the transmitter to the user. A lending process in which an ID to be rented is specified as a lending target ID and the lending target ID is transmitted to the management server.
The user returns the rental target rented to himself and is separated from the rental target, so that the mobile terminal does not effectively receive the signal from the transmitter of the rental target. When the transition occurs, the mobile terminal identifies the rental target ID as the return target ID from the signal received from the transmitter before the mobile terminal cannot be effectively received, and transmits the return target ID to the management server. A rental target management method including a return process is provided.

Further, according to one aspect of the present invention, it is a rental vehicle management method that enables a rental vehicle to be rented to a user.
The rental vehicle is equipped with a transmitter that emits a unique signal.
The user has a mobile terminal having a function of communicating with the management server and a function of receiving a signal from the transmitter.
The method is
When the mobile terminal effectively receives the signal from the transmitter of the rental vehicle because the user approaches one of the rental vehicles, the mobile terminal receives the signal from the transmitter to the user. A rental process of specifying the vehicle ID of the rental vehicle to be rented and transmitting the vehicle ID as the rental vehicle ID to the management server.
The user returns the rental vehicle rented to himself and is separated from the rental vehicle, so that the mobile terminal does not effectively receive the signal from the transmitter of the rental vehicle. When the transition occurs, the mobile terminal identifies the ID of the rental vehicle as the return vehicle ID from the signal received from the transmitter before the mobile terminal cannot be effectively received, and transmits the return vehicle ID to the management server. Rental vehicle management methods, including a return process, are provided.

Further, according to an aspect of the present invention, it is a rental vehicle management method that enables a user to rent a rental vehicle in a free-floating manner.
The rental vehicle is equipped with a transmitter that emits a unique signal.
The user has a mobile terminal having a function of communicating with the management server and a function of receiving a signal from the transmitter.
The method is
Since the user approaches one of the rental vehicles existing in any of the temporary rental stations for renting the rental vehicle, the mobile terminal effectively receives the signal from the transmitter of the rental vehicle. Then, the mobile terminal identifies the vehicle ID of the rental vehicle to be rented to the user from the signal received from the transmitter, stores the vehicle ID as the rental vehicle ID in the memory, and manages the rental vehicle ID. The lending process to send to the server and
Since the user returns the rental vehicle rented to himself / herself to an arbitrary place and separates from the rental vehicle, the mobile terminal is effectively received from the transmitter of the rental vehicle. When the transition to the non-reception state occurs, the mobile terminal identifies the ID of the rental vehicle as the return vehicle ID from the signal received from the transmitter before the mobile terminal cannot be effectively received, and the return vehicle ID is the memory. Provided is a free-floating rental vehicle management method including a return process of transmitting the return vehicle ID to the management server, provided that it matches the rental vehicle ID stored in the server.

Further, according to one aspect of the present invention, it is effective from the reception state in which the user's mobile terminal effectively receives the signal peculiar to the transmitter from the transmitter mounted on the borrowed rental vehicle by the short-range communication method. When the state transitions to the non-reception state in which the signal is not received, the current position measured by the mobile terminal is saved in the memory, and the rental vehicle is returned to the user at the regular position instead of being left at the current position. An icon and / or a message for urging is displayed on the screen of the mobile terminal, and when the duration of the non-reception state exceeds a predetermined time, the current position stored in the memory is set to the neglected position of the rental vehicle. A rental vehicle management method recognized as is provided.

Each of the following aspects is obtained by the present invention. Each aspect shall be divided into sections, each section shall be numbered, and the numbers of other sections shall be quoted as necessary. This is to facilitate understanding of some of the technical features that can be adopted by the present invention and their combinations, and the technical features that can be adopted by the present invention and their combinations are limited to the following aspects. Should not be interpreted as. That is, it should be interpreted that it is not hindered from appropriately extracting and adopting the technical features described in the present specification as the technical features of the present invention, which are not described in the following aspects.

Furthermore, describing each section in the form of quoting the numbers of the other sections does not necessarily prevent the technical features described in each section from being separated and independent from the technical features described in the other sections. It does not mean, and it should be interpreted that the technical features described in each section can be made independent as appropriate according to their properties.

(1) Transition from a reception state in which the user's mobile terminal effectively receives a signal unique to the transmitter from the transmitter mounted on the rented vehicle to a non-reception state in which the signal unique to the transmitter is not effectively received by the short-range communication method. Then, a rental vehicle management method that recognizes the current position measured by the mobile terminal at the start time of the non-reception state as the neglected position of the rental vehicle.

In one example, the mobile terminal recognizes the rental vehicle identified by the signal received from the transmitter before the transition as the abandoned vehicle, and recognizes the measured current position as the abandoned position of the abandoned vehicle.

The invention according to the above item (1) is particularly useful when the vehicle rental business is carried out by a station-type one-way system in which the concept of leaving a rental vehicle is remarkably easier to recognize than the free-floating type.

(2) A method of managing rental vehicles
The user who rented the rental vehicle carries his / her own mobile terminal while using the rental vehicle.
The rental vehicle is equipped with a transmitter that transmits a signal that can identify a unique vehicle identification code.
The mobile terminal can receive the transmitter by a short-range communication method, and has a positioning function for sequentially measuring its own current position.
The method is
A vehicle identification step in which a management server capable of communicating with the mobile terminal and / or the mobile terminal acquires a vehicle identification code specified by a signal received by the mobile terminal from the transmitter to identify the rental vehicle. When,
When the mobile terminal and / or the management server transitions from a reception state in which the mobile terminal effectively receives a signal from the transmitter to a non-reception state in which the signal is not effectively received, the mobile terminal is at the start time of the non-reception state. The current position of itself measured by is stored in the memory as a temporary neglected position of the identified rental vehicle, and when the duration of the non-reception state exceeds a predetermined time, the temporary neglect is stored in the memory. A rental vehicle management method comprising a neglected position recognition step of recognizing a position as the final neglected position of the identified rental vehicle.

(3) A method of managing rental vehicles that are rented and returned to users at the same station or at multiple different stations.
The user who rented the rental vehicle carries his / her own mobile terminal while using the rental vehicle.
The station is equipped with a first transmitter that emits a signal that can identify a unique station identification code.
The rental vehicle is equipped with a second transmitter that transmits a signal that can identify a unique vehicle identification code.
The mobile terminal can receive the first and second transmitters by a short-range communication method, and has a positioning function for sequentially measuring its own current position.
The method is
The mobile terminal and / or a management server capable of communicating with the mobile terminal receives a signal from the second transmitter, and the mobile terminal acquires a vehicle identification code specified by the received signal. Vehicle identification process to identify rental vehicle and
A reception state in which the mobile terminal and / or the management server effectively receives a signal from the second transmitter while the mobile terminal does not effectively receive a signal from the first transmitter. When the state transitions to the non-reception state in which the signal is not effectively received, the current position of itself measured by the mobile terminal at the start time of the non-reception state is stored in the memory as a temporary neglected position of the identified rental vehicle, and the above-mentioned Rental vehicle management including a neglected position recognition step of recognizing a temporary neglected position stored in the memory as the final abandoned position of the identified rental vehicle when the duration of the non-reception state exceeds a predetermined time. Method.

(4) Furthermore
The mobile terminal and / or the management server includes an abandoned vehicle recognition step of recognizing the identified rental vehicle as an abandoned vehicle when the reception state transitions to the non-reception state.
The abandoned vehicle recognition process is
When the elapsed time from the start time of the non-reception state exceeds a predetermined time, the step of recognizing the rental vehicle as an abandoned vehicle and the process of recognizing the rental vehicle as an abandoned vehicle.
A process of recognizing the rental vehicle as an abandoned vehicle when the rental vehicle is not returned to any station even after the permitted rental time of the rental vehicle permitted by the user has elapsed.
After the non-reception state is started, the mobile terminal urges the user to return the rental vehicle to any station by visually, audibly or tactilely stimulating the user. The rental vehicle management method according to item (3), which includes at least one step of recognizing the rental vehicle as an abandoned vehicle when the user does not respond to the reminder to the mobile terminal.

(5) Furthermore
The mobile terminal and / or the management server goes to the abandoned position with respect to the mobile terminals of a plurality of potential users, rents the abandoned vehicle, and returns the abandoned vehicle to any station. The rental vehicle management method according to item (3) or (4), which comprises a collection promotion step of transmitting requests to the effect all at once and thereby promoting collection of the abandoned vehicle.

(6) The user's mobile terminal transitions from the non-reception state in which the transmitter mounted on the rental vehicle before borrowing does not effectively receive the signal unique to the transmitter to the reception state in which the signal is effectively received by the short-range communication method. Then, a rental vehicle management method that recognizes the current position measured by the mobile terminal at the start time of the reception state as the rental position of the rental vehicle.

According to this method, a vehicle rental business that allows a user to rent a rental vehicle at any station and a vehicle rental business that allows a user to rent a rental vehicle at any location are realized. To.

In one example of this method, the reception range of the transmitter is set to the short range described later, whereby the transition from the non-reception state to the reception state occurs when the user holds the mobile terminal over the transmitter. Will be done.

In another example, the receiving range of the transmitter is the medium range described later (as long as the user is in the rental vehicle, the mobile terminal can receive the transmitter without having to hold the mobile terminal over the transmitter. The range is set to a degree), whereby the transition from the non-reception state to the reception state is performed by the user approaching the rental vehicle and the transmitter together with the mobile terminal.

(7) The user's mobile terminal effectively receives the signal unique to the transmitter from the transmitter mounted on the rented vehicle by the short-range communication method. The reception state is not effectively received from the reception state. A rental vehicle management method that recognizes the current position measured by the mobile terminal at the start time of the non-reception state as the return position of the rental vehicle.

According to this method, there is a vehicle rental business that allows the user to return the rental vehicle to any station, and a vehicle rental business that allows the user to return the rental vehicle to any location. It will be realized.

In one example of this method, the receiver range of the transmitter is set to the medium range, whereby the user is separated from or retracted from the rental vehicle and the transmitter together with the mobile terminal from the reception state. The transition to the non-reception state is performed.

(8) When the user's mobile terminal transitions from the non-reception state in which the transmitter mounted on the rented vehicle to the reception state in which the signal unique to the transmitter is not received by the short-range communication method, the transition is made. A rental vehicle management method that recognizes the current position measured by the mobile terminal within the reference time as the return position of the rental vehicle.

According to this method, there is a vehicle rental business that allows the user to return the rental vehicle to any station, and a vehicle rental business that allows the user to return the rental vehicle to any location. It will be realized.

In one example of this method, the receive range of the transmitter is set to the short range, whereby the user approaches the rental vehicle and the transmitter together with the mobile terminal, so that the non-reception state is changed to the above. The transition to the reception state is performed.

(9) The rental vehicle management method according to any one of (1) to (7), wherein the rental vehicle includes at least one of a bicycle, an automobile and a motorcycle.

(10) A program executed by the computer of the mobile terminal for carrying out the mobile terminal according to any one of (1) to (9).

The program according to this section and other sections may be interpreted to mean, for example, a combination of commands executed by a computer to perform its function, and may be processed according to each command as well as a combination of those commands. It can be interpreted to include, but is not limited to, files and data.

In addition, this program may achieve its intended purpose by being executed by a computer alone, or by being executed by a computer together with other programs. Yes, but not limited to them. In the latter case, the program according to this section may be based on data, but is not limited thereto.

(11) A program executed by the computer of the management server for implementing the management server according to any one of (2) to (5).

(12) A recording medium on which the program according to (10) or (11) is recorded so as to be readable by a computer.

Various formats can be adopted for this recording medium, for example, a magnetic recording medium such as a flexible disk, an optical recording medium such as a CD or a CD-ROM, an optical magnetic recording medium such as an MO, or an unremovable storage such as a ROM. Etc., but are not limited to them.

(13) A system that manages rental targets,
A transmitter installed in the rental target and transmitting a unique signal,
The user to be rented is a mobile terminal that he / she carries while using the rental target, can measure his / her current position, and receives the signal from the transmitter by a short-range communication method. Including what is possible
The management server capable of communicating with the mobile terminal and / or the mobile terminal is
The mobile terminal signals from the transmitter because the user is separated from the rental target from the reception state in which the mobile terminal effectively receives a signal from the transmitter because the user is close to the rental target being borrowed. A rental target management system including a neglected position recognition unit that recognizes the current position measured by the mobile terminal at the start time of the non-reception state as the neglected position of the rental target when the state is changed to the non-reception state.

In one example, the mobile terminal further includes a neglected object recognition unit that recognizes a rental object identified by a signal received from the transmitter before the transition as a neglected object.

(14) A system that manages rental targets,
A transmitter installed in the rental target and transmitting a unique signal,
The user to be rented is a mobile terminal that he / she carries while using the rental target, can measure his / her current position, and receives the signal from the transmitter by a short-range communication method. Including what is possible
The management server capable of communicating with the mobile terminal and / or the mobile terminal is
From the non-reception state in which the mobile terminal does not effectively receive a signal from the transmitter because the user is away from the waiting rental target, the mobile terminal approaches the rental target and the mobile terminal is the transmitter. When the mobile terminal transitions to the reception state of effectively receiving the signal from, the rental target recognition unit that recognizes the rental target identified by the signal received from the transmitter as the rental target to be rented to the user, and the rental target recognition unit.
A rental target management system including a rental position recognition unit that recognizes the current position measured by the mobile terminal at the start time of the reception state as the rental position of the rental target.

(15) Furthermore
A rental permission unit that permits the user to rent the rental target, provided that the predetermined conditions are met.
When the rental is permitted, an unlocking signal is transmitted to the locked lock device that prohibits the user from using the rental object, thereby permitting the lock device to use the rental device. The rental target management system according to paragraph (14), which includes an unlocking command unit that automatically switches to a permitted state.

(16) A system that manages rental targets,
A transmitter installed in the rental target and transmitting a unique signal,
The user to be rented is a mobile terminal that he / she carries while using the rental target, can measure his / her current position, and receives the signal from the transmitter by a short-range communication method. Including what is possible
The management server capable of communicating with the mobile terminal and / or the mobile terminal is
The mobile terminal is from the transmitter because the user is away from the rental target from the reception state in which the mobile terminal effectively receives a signal from the transmitter because the user is close to the rental target being borrowed. When the transition to the non-reception state in which the signal is not effectively received, the mobile terminal recognizes the rental target identified by the identification signal received from the transmitter in the transition candy as the rental target returned by the user. Department and
A rental target management system including a return position recognition unit that recognizes the current position measured by the mobile terminal at the start time of the non-reception state as the return position of the rental target.

(17) Furthermore
A return permission unit that allows the user to return the rental target, provided that the predetermined conditions are met.
The rental target management system according to paragraph (16), which includes a lock confirmation unit for confirming that the user has manually switched the lock device in the state of permitting the use of the rental target to the lock state of prohibiting the use of the lock device. ..

(18) The rental target management system according to any one of (13) to (17), wherein the rental target includes a movable property or real estate.

(19) The rental target management system according to item (18), wherein the movable property includes a mobile body.

(20) The rental target management system according to (19), wherein the moving body includes a bicycle, a car, a motorcycle, a go-kart for entertainment or competition, a shopping cart, a stroller, a wheelbarrow, a wheelchair or a golf cart.

(21) The movable property is a furniture, clothing, an electric product, an accessory (for example, a battery or a charger) detachably attached to the electric product, or a recording medium (for example, a CD) on which audiovisual contents are recorded. The rental target management system according to item (18), which includes those that can be played by the user.

(22) The real estate is a room of an accommodation facility (for example, a hotel) where a user can stay for a short period of time, a room of an accommodation facility (for example, an apartment) where a user can stay for a long period of time, or an individual settles. A room in an accommodation facility (for example, a detached house, a condominium, etc.) that is temporarily rented to another person (for example, a room for private lodging), a coin locker, a public or private parking lot, or a private residence. A parking lot that is temporarily rented to another person (a parking lot that can be rented for a privately owned parking lot or a parking lot that can be temporarily shared with another person) The rental target management system according to item (18).

(23) A first transmitter that emits a unique identification signal is installed at the station, and a second transmitter that emits a unique identification signal is rented and / or returned to the user at the station. Rental target management that is installed and allows the user to rent and / or return the rental target based on the signal received from the first transmitter and the signal received from the second transmitter by the user's mobile terminal. Method.

(24) The rental target is to the user on condition that the state in which the user's mobile terminal is receiving both the signal from the first transmitter and the signal from the second transmitter is detected. The rental target management method according to paragraph (23), which permits lending and / or returning.

(25) The rental target management method according to item (23) or (24), wherein the effective reception radius of the effective reception area of the second transmitter is variably controlled according to the behavior of the user.

(26) A transmitter installed in a rental target that is rented and / or returned to the user and that transmits a unique identification signal to the user based on the signal received by the user's mobile terminal. A rental target management method that permits the rental and / or return of the rental target and variably controls the reception range of the transmitter according to the behavior of the user.

(27) The rental target management method according to item (26), wherein the reception range is controlled to be longer when the user's lending process is completed.

(28) The rental target management method according to (26) or (27), wherein the reception range is controlled so as to be shortened when the user's return process is completed.

(29) Measured by the mobile terminal in a reception state in which the user's mobile terminal is effectively receiving a signal unique to the transmitter from a transmitter mounted on the rental vehicle being rented by a short-range communication method. When the absolute value of the speed and / or the acceleration is equal to or higher than the reference value, it is determined that the user is in the rental vehicle and is moving, and from the reception state, the mobile terminal sends a signal from the transmitter. When the user transitions to the non-reception state in which the reception is not effectively received, it is determined that the user has disembarked from the rental target, and in that state, when the absolute value of the speed and / or the acceleration measured by the mobile terminal is equal to or higher than the reference value. A rental vehicle management method for determining that the user is separated from the rental vehicle.

According to this method, it is easy to grasp whether the user is on the rental vehicle or away from the rental vehicle relatively easily and accurately, and manage the rental vehicle with different contents according to the result. Will be.

(30) A method of managing rental vehicles that are rented and returned to users at the same or different stations.
The user who rented the rental vehicle carries his / her own mobile terminal while using the rental vehicle.
The rental vehicle is equipped with a transmitter that transmits a signal that can identify a unique vehicle identification code.
The mobile terminal can receive the transmitter by a short-range communication method, and has a positioning function for sequentially measuring its own current position.
The method is
The rental vehicle is obtained by a management server capable of communicating with the mobile terminal and / or the mobile terminal by receiving a signal from the transmitter and acquiring a vehicle identification code specified by the received signal. Vehicle identification process to identify
From the reception state in which the mobile terminal effectively receives a signal from the transmitter when the mobile terminal and / or the management server does not exist in any station of the user, the mobile terminal, and the rental vehicle. A rental vehicle including a neglected position recognition step of recognizing the current position measured by the mobile terminal within the reference time from the transition to the non-reception state that is not effectively received as the neglected position of the identified rental vehicle. Management method.

FIG. 1 (a) is a perspective view showing equipment installed at a certain station in a bicycle rental system according to an exemplary first embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 1 (b) is a perspective view showing FIG. 1 (b). It is a side view which shows a part of the rental bicycle shown in a) in an enlarged manner.

FIG. 2 shows the bicycle rental system shown in FIG. 1 (a) in the same station as the first transmitter installed in a certain station and the second transmitter installed in a bicycle existing in the same station. It is a perspective view which shows an example of a mode that a mobile terminal of a user and a management server operated by a management center in a remote place communicate with each other.

FIG. 3 shows short-range one-way communication between the first and second transmitters shown in FIG. 2 and a mobile terminal, and long-distance bidirectional communication between the mobile terminal and the management server shown in the figure. It is a figure which conceptually represents each communication.

FIG. 4 is a functional block diagram conceptually representing the first and second transmitters shown in FIG.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart conceptually showing an example of a program executed by the computers of the first and second transmitters shown in FIG. 4 (hereinafter, also referred to as “application”, the same applies to other programs). ..

6 (a) is a plan view showing the first and second transmitters shown in FIG. 1 (a) in an enlarged manner together with the station where the first and second transmitters are installed. Further, an example of each of the first and second effective reception areas assigned to the first and second transmitters is conceptually shown, and FIG. 6 (b) shows the first effective reception. It is a plan view which conceptually shows the 1st modification of an area, and FIG. 6C is a plan view which conceptually shows the 2nd modification of a 1st effective reception area.

FIG. 7 is a functional block diagram conceptually representing the mobile terminal shown in FIG. 2.

FIG. 8 is a diagram conceptually representing the station data file stored in the station data memory in FIG. 7 in a tabular format.

FIG. 9 is a diagram conceptually representing the bicycle data file stored in the bicycle data memory in FIG. 7 in a tabular format.

FIG. 10 is a functional block diagram conceptually representing the management server shown in FIG.

11 (a) shows a list showing a plurality of modules of the bicycle rental program executed by the computer of the mobile terminal shown in FIG. 7, and FIG. 11 (b) shows the computer of the management server shown in FIG. Shows a list showing multiple modules of a bicycle rental program run by.

FIG. 12 (a) is a diagram schematically showing a reservation status table used in the reservation sequence for explaining the reservation sequence among the bicycle rental methods executed in the bicycle rental system. 12 (b) is a diagram schematically showing a user-specific reservation content file used in the reservation sequence.

FIG. 13 (a) is a plurality of time charts for illustrating the main sequence realized when there is a reservation among the bicycle rental methods, and FIG. 13 (b) is the bicycle rental method. Among them, it is a plurality of time charts for exemplifying the main sequence realized in the case of no reservation.

FIG. 14 is a reservation sequence flow achieved by the execution of the reservation module shown in FIG. 11A by the mobile terminal and the execution of the reservation module shown in FIG. 11B by the management server.

15 (a), (b) and (c) are reservation sequence diagrams for explaining the reservation sequence flow shown in FIG. 14 in chronological order.

FIG. 16 shows a reserved time loan achieved by the execution of the reserved time loan processing module shown in FIG. 11 (a) by the mobile terminal and the execution of the reserved time loan processing module shown in FIG. 10 (b) by the management server. It is a sequence flow.

FIG. 17 shows the non-reserved lending achieved by the execution of the non-reserved lending processing module shown in FIG. 11A by the mobile terminal and the execution of the non-reserved lending processing module shown in FIG. 11B by the management server. It is a processing sequence flow.

FIG. 18 is a return processing sequence flow achieved by the execution of the return processing module shown in FIG. 11A by the mobile terminal and the execution of the return processing module shown in FIG. 11B by the management server.

FIG. 19 is an illegally parked bicycle search sequence flow achieved by the execution of the illegally parked bicycle search module shown in FIG. 11A by the mobile terminal and the execution of the illegally parked bicycle search module shown in FIG. 11B by the management server. ..

FIG. 20 is an illegally parked bicycle collection sequence flow achieved by the execution of the illegally parked bicycle collection module shown in FIG. 11A by the mobile terminal and the execution of the illegally parked bicycle collection module shown in FIG. 11B by the management server. ..

FIG. 21 (a) shows an example of a user X riding a rental cycle in order to explain a process in which an illegally parked bicycle is searched for and collected in the bicycle rental system shown in FIG. 1 (a). (B) shows an example of the user X abandoning the rental cycle and leaving it, and the figure (c) shows an example of another user Y approaching to rent the illegally parked bicycle. The figure (d) shows an example of how the user Y rents the illegally parked bicycle and starts riding.

FIG. 22 is a plurality of time charts for exemplifying an illegally parked bicycle search / collection sequence in which an illegally parked bicycle is searched for and collected in the bicycle rental system shown in FIG. 1 (a).

FIG. 23 shows an example of an illegally parked bicycle list registered by execution by the management server of the illegally parked bicycle search module shown in FIG. 11 (b).

FIG. 24 is a plan view showing an example of how the position of an illegally parked bicycle is displayed on the screen of another user's mobile terminal by execution by the management server of the illegally parked bicycle collection module shown in FIG. 11 (b).

FIG. 25 is a perspective view conceptually showing an example of how a rental cycle is rented and returned in a bicycle rental system according to an exemplary second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 26 is a rental processing sequence flow achieved by execution of the rental processing module by the mobile terminal and execution by the management server of the rental processing module among the plurality of modules in the bicycle rental system shown in FIG. 25.

FIG. 27 is a return processing sequence flow achieved by execution of the return processing module by the mobile terminal and execution by the management server of the return processing module among the plurality of modules in the bicycle rental system shown in FIG. 25.

FIG. 28 is a plurality of time charts for explaining the relationship between the change in the signal reception level of the second transmitter and the change in the user behavior in the bicycle rental system shown in FIG. 25.

Hereinafter, some exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

<First Embodiment>

1 (a) and 2 show a bicycle rental system (hereinafter simply referred to as "system") 10 according to an exemplary first embodiment of the present invention. This system 10 is an example of a rental vehicle management system according to the present invention, and in this system 10, a rental cycle management method which is an example of a rental vehicle management method according to the present invention is implemented.

According to this system 10, a rental business in which a rental cycle (rental bicycle) 12, which is an example of a rental vehicle, is rented to the user for a fee is provided to the user.

The rental business employs a one-way system in which the user is allowed to return the bicycle 20 to a station 20 different from the station 20 where the bicycle 12 was rented.

Furthermore, the rental business will adopt a station-type one-way system. Therefore, according to this rental business, the user is prohibited from leaving the bicycle 12 rented at any of the stations 20 at any place.

However, according to this rental business, a bicycle 12 abandoned in an arbitrary place, that is, an illegally parked bicycle is automatically searched, and when the illegally parked bicycle 12 is found as a result of the search, the illegally parked bicycle 12 is left in the place. However, it is announced (delivered or broadcast) to a plurality of potential users all at once as a place where it is possible to rent the illegally parked bicycle 12 and start riding.

Thereby, it is promoted that the illegally parked bicycle 12 is returned to any station 20 and collected by any other user. As a result, the rental company is at least partially freed from the trouble of additional work of traveling to collect the illegally parked bicycle 12 and returning it to any station 20.

According to this rental business, if the management server 50 confirms that the user has left the rented bicycle 12, the bicycle 12 is considered to have been returned, although a penalty is imposed. Therefore, paying attention to this, it can be considered that this rental business partially adopts the free-floating type one-way method.

In short, it can be considered that this rental business employs a hybrid one-way system that combines a station type and a free floating type.

In the present embodiment, when the user who rented the bicycle 12 gets off the bicycle 12 at any place other than the station 20 and stops there, the act is expressed by the term "leaving". However, if the bicycle 12 is left unattended, the abandoned position may function as if it were a new station 20, and another user may borrow the abandoned bicycle as if it were a legitimately returned bicycle. be.

Then, in the present embodiment, the term "leaving" is synonymous with "returning", which is a legitimate act when another user rents an illegally parked bicycle and returns it to any station 20. On the other hand, when a rental company collects an illegally parked bicycle because such a user does not exist, it means "illegal" as a fraudulent act, which means that the meaning changes depending on the situation. Interpreted as being.

Therefore, in this embodiment, the term "leaving" may be interpreted as synonymous with "returning".

As shown in FIGS. 1A and 2, the system 10 has a plurality of stations 20 capable of storing a plurality of bicycles 12, respectively (in FIG. 1A, among those stations 20). (Only the representative station 20 of the above is shown) is a system for providing a service for renting and returning the bicycles 12 to the user. Each station 20 is assigned to the corresponding bicycle parking lot 22. The bicycle parking lot 22 is a site for storing rental bicycles, and in the illustrated example, it has a rectangular shape in a plan view.

As the management method of the stations 20, each station 20 is independently (individually or self-sufficiently) managed by using only the equipment installed in the station 20, and a plurality of stations 20. There is a centralized management method in which the stations 20 are centrally managed by communicating with a management server in a remote location. The system 10 according to the present embodiment adopts the latter centralized management method.

In order to realize the centralized management method, this system 10 has a plurality of first transmitters 30 installed in a plurality of stations 20 and a plurality of second transmitters (vehicle-mounted devices) mounted on a plurality of bicycles 12. ) 32 and a management server 50 installed in a management center 40 that centrally manages a plurality of stations 20. The management center 40 is operated by the owner of the land where the station 20 is installed, the above-mentioned rental company or bicycle parking lot management company acting on behalf of the owner.

Here, the first transmitter 30 is referred to as a station-side transmitter when focusing on the installation position, and is referred to as a fixed transmitter, a stationary transmitter, or a position-invariant transmitter when focusing on the kinetic characteristics. Similarly, the second transmitter 32 is referred to as a bicycle-side transmitter or an in-vehicle transmitter when focusing on the installation position, and is a movable transmitter, a mobile transmitter or a position-variable transmitter when focusing on the kinetic characteristics. Is called.

Each of the plurality of stations 20 is assigned a unique station ID in advance. Similarly, each of the plurality of bicycles 12 is pre-assigned with a unique bicycle ID. The first transmitter 30 installed in each station 20 and the management server 50 are not directly communicated with each other, but are communicated via the user's mobile terminal 90. Similarly, the second transmitter 32 installed on each bicycle 12 and the management server 50 are not directly communicated with each other, but are communicated via the user's mobile terminal 90.

In the present embodiment, each first transmitter 30 is configured to transmit a local identification signal capable of identifying a station ID unique to the corresponding station 20. Further, each second transmitter 32 is configured to transmit a local identification signal capable of identifying a bicycle ID unique to the corresponding bicycle 12. The same station ID is commonly used for a plurality of bicycles 12 stored in the same station 20.

The number and types of bicycles 12 to be stored in the same station 20 are predetermined and may not change from day to day, but in the present embodiment, they are not decided in advance and change from day to day. It is possible.

Therefore, in the former case, the same bicycle ID always corresponds to the same station ID, whereas in the present embodiment, the same bicycle ID corresponds to a plurality of station IDs different from each other.

Specifically, in the present embodiment, the same bicycle ID corresponds to the station ID of station A at the time of rental, but corresponds to the station ID of station B at the time of return. In this way, each user's action of renting and returning the bicycle 12 is defined by the combination of the station ID and the bicycle ID.

As shown in FIG. 1 (b), a corresponding second transmitter 32 is attached to a specific portion of each bicycle 12. An example of that particular portion is the front (eg, basket), rear (eg, carrier), and center (eg, saddle 62 of the bicycle 12, saddle 62 of the bicycle 12) of each bicycle 12. A triangular frame 64) that supports the bicycle from below.

Further, in each bicycle 12, the part where the second transmitter 32 is attached is a state in which the user is riding on the bicycle 12 (a state in which the user starts to sit on the saddle 62 of the bicycle 12 (also referred to as a “ride state”). And the state of sitting on the saddle 62 of the bicycle 12 and driving the bicycle 12 (also referred to as "riding", "riding", "riding and moving"). Including), the mobile terminal 90 carried by the user is a portion (for example, the car portion, the loading platform, etc.) in which the signal transmitted from the second transmitter 32 is likely to be received without obstacles. Is selected.

As shown in FIG. 1 (a), this system 10 stores the above-mentioned first transmitter 30 and a plurality of bicycles 12 as fixed objects installed in the corresponding bicycle parking lot 22 at each station 20. It is equipped with a bicycle rack (bicycle accommodating device) 70 for the purpose.

In the example shown in FIG. 1 (a), one first transmitter 30 is installed in one station 20, but for example, as illustrated in FIG. 6 (c), a plurality of first transmitters 30 are installed in one station 20. The first transmitter 30 of the stand may be installed.

As shown in FIG. 1A, the bicycle rack 70 includes a plurality of bicycle stalls (small compartments) 72 for accommodating one bicycle 12 at a time. In one example, the bicycle rack 70 is partitioned into a plurality of bicycle stalls 72 by a frame 74 installed in the bicycle parking lot 22. Prior to lending to the user, each bicycle 12 is housed (stored) in each bicycle stall 72.

In one example, not shown, each bicycle 12 is fitted with a lock capable of selectively locking its wheels (front and / or rear wheels) or handlebars to the bicycle frame. In another example, although not shown, each bicycle stall 72 is fitted with a lock capable of selectively locking the bicycle 12 to each bicycle stall 72.

In any of the examples, the lock includes, for example, a personal identification number type (dial lock, push button lock, etc.) in which the user inputs and unlocks the personal identification number, or from the user's mobile terminal 90 or management server 50. There is a remote type that unlocks with a signal, and there are mechanical locks that operate without using a power source (power) and electronic locks that operate using a power source (power).

As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, in this system 10, the user uses his / her own mobile terminal 90 to identify from the first transmitter 30 installed in the station 20 where the user is currently staying. The signal and the identification signal from the second transmitter 32 installed in the plurality of bicycles 12 stored in the station 20 at this time, which are reserved by the user or selected locally. At the same time, reception is performed in a contact state or a non-contact state with the first and second transmitters 30 and 32 (short-range one-way wireless communication is performed). The mobile terminal 90 further performs long-distance bidirectional wireless communication with the management server 50 of the management center 40.

The user's mobile terminal 90 is a device carried by the user and having a wireless communication function, for example, a mobile phone, a smartphone, a laptop computer, a tablet computer, a PDA, or the like.

<1st and 2nd transmitters>

The first transmitter 30 installed in each station 20 and the second transmitter 32 mounted in each bicycle 12 have a common hardware configuration (see FIG. 4) and a software configuration (see FIG. 5). Therefore, for convenience of explanation, the configurations of the first and second transmitters 30 and 32 will be described by treating them as the same transmitter.

The transmitters 30 and 32 actively, locally, and permanently transmit the unique identification signal without requiring an external trigger signal as long as the supply power is not insufficient.

The transmitters 30 and 32 are generally known as a beacon device for transmitting a beacon signal as an identification signal, a radio beacon, or the like. In one example, each of the transmitters 30 and 32 generates an identification signal representing the corresponding station ID by modulating the original signal, and the generated identification signal is used as an IR signal, a Bluetooth (registered trademark) signal, or the like. It is transmitted locally as an NFC (Near Field Communication) signal.

Next, to explain the hardware configuration with reference to FIG. 4, which is a functional block diagram, each of the transmitters 30 and 32 has a memory 102 for storing a processor 100 and a plurality of applications executed by the processor 100. It is mainly composed of a computer 104.

Each transmitter 30, 32 further has a replaceable disposable battery 106 as a power source. Instead of the battery 106, it is possible to adopt a rechargeable battery, a commercial power source as an external power source, an alternative to them, or in addition to them, a solar cell as a renewable energy. be.

Each of the transmitters 30 and 32 further has a transmitter 108 that generates and transmits an identification signal representing a regular transmitter ID (an example of a "transmitter code") unique to itself. Each first transmitter 30 transmits an identification signal representing a unique normal first transmitter ID, while each second transmitter 32 emits an identification signal representing a unique regular second transmitter ID. ..

The transmitting unit 108 is operated by the battery 106 and controlled by the controller 110. The controller 110 is controlled by the computer 100.

Next, in order to explain the software configuration of the transmitters 30 and 32 with reference to FIG. 5, the processor 100 of the transmitters 30 and 32 repeats the program conceptually represented by the flowchart in FIG. To execute.

At the time of executing each program, first, in step S1, from the memory 102, the regular transmitter ID corresponding to the transmitters 30 and 32 (that is, the regular first transmitter ID corresponding to the first transmitter 30 and the first transmitter ID). 2 Of the regular second transmitter IDs corresponding to the transmitter 32, those corresponding to the program described this time) are read. The regular first transmitter ID has a one-to-one correspondence with one station ID, and the regular second transmitter ID has a one-to-one correspondence with one bicycle ID.

Next, in step S2, the remaining amount of the battery 106 is estimated.

Subsequently, in step S3, a signal for modulating the original signal (for example, a carrier signal) is transmitted to the controller 110 so that the read normal transmitter ID and the estimated remaining battery level are reflected. Is output. The controller 110 controls the transmission unit 108, and as a result, the transmission unit 108 generates an identification signal to be transmitted this time.

Then, in step S4, the generated identification signal is transmitted from the transmission unit 108. Then, the process returns to step S1.

In addition, in each of the transmitters 30 and 32, an algorithm or an algorithm that generates an identification signal so that at least the corresponding ID among the station ID and the bicycle ID (corresponding ID) and the remaining battery level is reflected. The procedure may be different from the algorithm or procedure shown in FIG.

<Hardware configuration of user's mobile terminal>

Here, to explain one function of the user's mobile terminal 90 in association with the transmitters 30 and 32, the mobile terminal 90 is carrying the mobile terminal 90 in a state of receiving the identification signal from the transmitters 30 and 32. When a program pre-installed on the computer of the terminal 90, that is, a dedicated application for transmitter processing (hereinafter referred to as "transmitter application") is started (logged in), the received identification signal is demolished. Then, the station ID and the bicycle ID are decrypted.

Specifically, the mobile terminal 90 acquires the station ID from the identification signal received from the first transmitter 30, and acquires the bicycle ID from the identification signal received from the second transmitter 32.

The mobile terminal 90 further transmits the decrypted station ID and bicycle ID to the management server 50.

Further, when the mobile terminal 90 starts the transmitter application in a state where the identification signals are received from the transmitters 30 and 32, the mobile terminal 90 transmits the identification signal based on the received identification signal. The distance between the positions of the transmitters 30 and 32 and the position of the mobile terminal 90 when the identification signal is received is also measured. The measurement of the distance is performed, for example, based on the strength of the signal received by the mobile terminal 90 from the transmitters 30 and 32.

That is, the mobile terminal 90 uses a station ID unique to the station 20 in which the first transmitter 30 is actually installed and a bicycle 12 selected by the user based on the identification signals received from the transmitters 30 and 32. Therefore, both the bicycle ID unique to the one in which the second transmitter 32 is installed and the distances from the transmitters 30 and 32 at that time are acquired.

<Setting the reception range of each transmitter>

As conceptually shown in a plan view in FIG. 6A, two types of reception areas are assigned to the transmitters 30 and 32. They are a receivable area (not shown) and an effective reception area (hereinafter, also referred to as “reception range”).

Each of these areas is generally defined by a circle originating from each of the transmitters 30 and 32. The receivable area has a maximum reception radius (for example, about 50 m), whereas the effective reception area has an effective reception radius (for example, a range from a radius of 0 m to a radius of about 50 m or less). While the maximum reception radius is an invariant value, the effective reception radius is a variable value that can be changed at any time by the mobile terminal 90, as will be described later.

The receivable area is an area where the identification signal from the transmitters 30 and 32 can be reached when the power supply of the transmitters 30 and 32 is normal, that is, as long as it exists in the area, the mobile terminal 90. Means the area where the identification signal can be received.

On the other hand, the effective reception area has an effective reception radius smaller than the maximum reception radius of the receivable area. The maximum reception radius cannot be arbitrarily set, whereas the effective reception radius can be arbitrarily set by the mobile terminal 90.

That is, it can be said that the maximum reception radius means the reception limit determined by the hardware, while the effective reception radius means the reception limit determined by the software.

As described above, the mobile terminal 90 measures the distance to each of the transmitters 30 and 32 when the identification signal received by the mobile terminal 90 is transmitted. The distance measurement may or may not exceed the effective reception radius. When the distance measurement value does not exceed the reception effective radius, it means that the mobile terminal 90 exists in the effective reception area, whereas when the distance measurement value exceeds the reception effective radius, the mobile terminal 90 is present. Is present in the receivable area but not in the effective receivable area.

By activating the transmitter processing application, the mobile terminal 90 determines whether or not the distance measurement value is equal to or less than the set value of the effective reception radius, and if it is determined that the distance measurement value is equal to or less than the set value, the mobile terminal 90 determines. Since 90 is currently located in the effective reception area (reception range), the mobile terminal 90 "effectively receives the identification signal from each of the transmitters 30 and 32" (hereinafter, simply "receives the identification signal"). ) ”.

On the other hand, when the mobile terminal 90 determines that the distance measurement value is larger than the set value, the mobile terminal 90 is currently located outside the effective reception area of each of the transmitters 30 and 32. It is determined that "the identification signals from the transmitters 30 and 32 have not been effectively received (hereinafter, also referred to simply as" the identification signal has not been received ")".

That is, in the present embodiment, when the mobile terminal 90 is located outside the effective reception area, the mobile terminal 90 apparently receives the identification signal even though the mobile terminal 90 actually receives the identification signal. It will be treated on the software as not receiving the identification signal.

Here, the geometrical relationship of the effective reception area between the first transmitter 30 and the second transmitter 32 will be described.

In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 6A, one first transmitter 30 is installed in one station 20, and the first effective reception area (first effective reception area) of the first transmitter 30 is installed. The reception range) is arranged inside the second effective reception area (second reception range) of the second transmitter 32 as long as the corresponding bicycle 12 is within the premises of the station 20 (inside the boundary line). The first reception radius of the first effective reception area and the second reception radius of the second effective reception area are relatively set.

Specifically, the second reception radius is set to be shorter than the first reception radius, and as a result, the second effective reception area becomes the short range or the medium range, and the first effective reception area becomes the long range.

Here, specific examples of these three reception ranges will be described.

1) Short range

The reception range in which the mobile terminal 90 cannot effectively receive the transmitter unless the user touches the transmitter of the transmitter or holds it in a non-contact state (the set value is, for example, from about 0 cm). Within a range of about 30 cm)

2) Medium range

As long as the user is on the bicycle 12 or pushes and moves the bicycle 12, the user may bring the mobile terminal 90 into contact with the transmitter of the transmitter (make it non-contact / approach). The reception range in which the mobile terminal 90 can effectively receive the transmitter (the set value is, for example, within the range of about 0 m to about 2 m).

3) Long range

As long as the user is present at any position in the station 20, the mobile terminal 90 can effectively receive the transmitter without touching or holding the mobile terminal 90 to the transmitter of the transmitter. Range (the set value is, for example, within the range of about 0 m to about 10 m).

In the example shown in FIG. 6 (a), the first effective reception area is set to completely cover the entire area of the station 20 in a plan view and to have a region partially deviating from the boundary line of the station 20. Has been done. Alternatively, in another example, as shown in FIG. 6B, even if the first effective reception area is set so as not to have a region deviating from the boundary line of the station 20 in a plan view. good.

In the two examples shown in FIGS. 6 (a) and 6 (b), one first transmitter 30 is installed in one station 20, but instead, an example is shown in FIG. 6 (c). As such, it is also possible to carry out the present invention in a manner in which a plurality of first transmitters 30 are installed in one station 20.

By the way, in the present embodiment, the site of the station 20 has a rectangular shape. On the other hand, the first effective reception area is three-dimensionally spherical and two-dimensionally circular. Therefore, if one first effective reception area is assigned to the station 20, as shown in FIG. 6B, there is a gap between the boundary line of the site of the station 20 and the boundary line of the first effective reception area. (Reception leakage area) remains.

On the other hand, in yet another example, as shown in FIG. 6C, if a plurality of first effective reception areas are assigned to the station 20, the combined effective reception areas are apparently effective reception. It becomes an area, and the gap between the boundary line of this area and the boundary line of the station 20 is reduced.

As a result, the so-called reception omission that the mobile terminal 90 cannot effectively receive the signal from the first transmitter 30 even though the user carrying the mobile terminal 90 exists in the station 20 is prevented.

In the example shown in FIG. 6 (c), the plurality of second transmitters 30 are assigned different transmitter IDs, while the station IDs common to each other are assigned. Therefore, when the mobile terminal 90 receives the signal from at least one of the first transmitters 30, the transmitter ID represented by the received signal is associated with (converted to) the corresponding station ID. ), As a result, the mobile terminal 90 can identify the station 20 this time.

Here, the fact that the mobile terminal 90 identifies (recognizes) the station 20 this time means that the user carrying the mobile terminal 90 exists in the station 20 by the cooperation between the mobile terminal 90 and the transmitter 30. It is equivalent to being detected.

<Software configuration of user's mobile terminal>

Next, to explain the hardware configuration of the user's mobile terminal 90 with reference to FIG. 7, which is a functional block diagram, the mobile terminal 90 is a memory that stores a processor 130 and a plurality of applications executed by the processor 130. It is mainly composed of a computer 134 having 132.

The mobile terminal 90 further includes a display unit (eg, a liquid crystal display) 136 that displays information on, for example, a screen (having a window having a finite, variable or invariant area) indicated by reference numeral "135" in FIG. It has a receiving unit 138 that receives signals from the first transmitter 30, the second transmitter 32, and the management server 50, and a transmitting unit 140 that generates a signal and transmits the signal to the management server 50.

The mobile terminal 90 further has an input unit 150 for inputting data or commands from the user. The input unit 150 has, for example, an operation unit that can be operated by a user to input desired information (for example, a command, data, etc.) into the mobile terminal 90.

The operation unit includes a touch screen that displays an icon (for example, a virtual button) that can be operated by the user, a physical operation unit that can be operated by the user (for example, a keyboard, keypad, button, etc.), and voice. There are microphones that detect, but they are not limited to these.

The mobile terminal 90 further has a GPS (satellite positioning system) receiver 152. As is well known, the GPS receiver 152 receives a plurality of GPS signals from a plurality of GPS satellites, and based on these GPS signals, the position (latitude, longitude and altitude) of the GPS receiver 152 on the earth is determined. Measure by triangulation. That is, the mobile terminal 90 has a positioning function using a satellite.

As shown in FIG. 7, the memory 132 has a plurality of data memories including a map data memory 161, a station data memory 163, a bicycle data memory 165, and a reservation status table memory 167.

The map data memory 161 temporarily stores map data downloaded by the user's mobile terminal 90 from the management server 50 or another map database (not shown) according to the user's current position. Based on the map data, a map (an example of a "partial map") is displayed on the screen 135 (see FIG. 15) of the display unit 136. The map displayed on the screen 135 changes from moment to moment as the user moves.

As conceptually shown in FIG. 8, in the station data memory 163, the correspondence between the plurality of station IDs, the plurality of regular first transmitter IDs, and the plurality of station position data is downloaded from the management server 50. It is possible to be remembered. The plurality of station IDs correspond to the plurality of stations 20 centrally managed by the system 10. Further, each of the plurality of station position data represents the latitude and longitude (latitude x, longitude y) of the ground position of the corresponding station 20.

The station data memory 163 temporarily stores a plurality of station position data corresponding to the plurality of stations 20 together with a plurality of station IDs and a plurality of regular first transmitter IDs corresponding to the plurality of station position data.

In the mobile terminal 90, a map based on the map data is displayed on the screen 135, and a plurality of station positions stored in the station data memory 163 at each moment on the map. Based on the data, each position of a small number of candidate stations 20 located in the vicinity of the current position of the mobile terminal 90 among the downloaded plurality of stations 20 is overlaid (see FIG. 15).

Here, the "small number of candidate stations 20" is a plurality of stations 20 displayed on the screen 135 because of the geographical reason that they are close to the current position of the mobile terminal 90 among the plurality of downloaded stations 20. The station 20 that is off the screen 135 due to geographical reasons that it is far from the current position of the mobile terminal 90 is excluded.

As conceptually shown in FIG. 9, the bicycle data memory 165 of FIG. 7 has a plurality of station IDs and a plurality of bicycle IDs (for example, “2001”, which are printed in FIG. 1 (b). The correspondence between (displayed in immovable characters on the bicycle 12 by painting, sticker, etc.) and a plurality of regular second transmitter IDs can be downloaded from the management server 50 and stored. If any one of the plurality of bicycles 12 is selected by the user, one bicycle ID corresponding to the bicycle ID is determined, and by extension, one regular second transmitter ID corresponding to the bicycle ID is determined.

The reservation status table, which will be described later, is appropriately downloaded from the management server 50 and stored in the reservation status table memory 167.

As shown in FIG. 11A, the memory 132 of the mobile terminal 90 stores a bicycle rental program for the mobile terminal 90, and the bicycle rental program has the following plurality of modules. There is.

1) Reservation module

This is a module that assists the user in booking one of the bicycles 12 prior to arriving at station 20, as detailed later with reference to FIG. Here, "reserving" means that the user inputs the location information of the desired station 20, the identification information of the desired bicycle 12 (an example of the rental target identification information), and the time information such as the scheduled rental time and the scheduled return time. Equivalent to work.

2) Lending processing module when there is a reservation

This is a module that assists the user in receiving the reserved bicycle 12 at the reserved station 20 according to his / her reservation, as will be described in detail later with reference to FIG.

3) Lending processing module when there is no reservation

This allows the user to select any vacant bicycle 12 at any station 20 and rent the selected bicycle 12 at any station 20 without reservation, as will be detailed later with reference to FIG. It is a module that supports receiving.

4) Return processing module

This means that the user returns the rented bicycle 12 at the same or different station 20 as the station 20 where the bicycle 12 was rented, as will be described in detail later with reference to FIG. It is a module to support.

5) Illegally parked bicycle search module

This is because, as will be described in detail later with reference to FIG. 19, after lending the bicycle 12 to the user, the user leaves the bicycle 12 in an arbitrary place (leaving position) to which neither station 20 is assigned. It is a module that determines whether or not it has been done.

More specifically, in this illegally parked bicycle search module, the user's mobile terminal 90 transitions from a reception state in which the identification signal is effectively received from the second transmitter 32 by a short-range communication method to a non-reception state in which the identification signal is not effectively received. Then, before the transition, the mobile terminal 90 recognizes the bicycle 12 identified by the signal received from the second transmitter 32 as an illegally parked bicycle.

Further, a predetermined time (for example, 1 minute, 2 minutes, 5 minutes, etc.) elapses within the reference time from the transition (for example, substantially at the same time as the transition, immediately after the transition, or after the transition). By), the current position measured by the mobile terminal 90 is recognized as the abandoned position of the abandoned bicycle.

Here, in the "reception state in which the mobile terminal 90 effectively receives the identification signal from the second transmitter 32 by the short-range communication method", the effective reception area of the second transmitter 32 is set to be narrower than the receivable area. In this case, it means that the mobile terminal 90 is receiving the identification signal from the second transmitter 32 because the mobile terminal 90 is within the effective reception area of the second transmitter 32.

On the other hand, in the above-mentioned "reception state", when the effective reception area of the second transmitter 32 is set to be the same as the receivable area, the mobile terminal 90 is within the receivable area of the second transmitter 32. This means that the mobile terminal 90 is receiving an identification signal from the second transmitter 32.

Further, in the "non-reception state", when the effective reception area of the second transmitter 32 is set narrower than the receivable area, the mobile terminal 90 is within the receivable area of the second transmitter 32 and the effective reception area. The mobile terminal 90 is receiving an identification signal from the second transmitter 32 because it is outside, or the mobile terminal 90 is second because it is outside the receivable area of the second transmitter 32. It means a state in which the identification signal cannot be received from the transmitter 32.

On the other hand, in the above-mentioned "non-reception state", when the effective reception area of the second transmitter 32 is set to be the same as the receivable area, the mobile terminal 90 has the receivable area of the second transmitter 32. It means that the mobile terminal 90 cannot receive the identification signal from the second transmitter 32 because it is outside.

6) Illegally parked bicycle collection module

This is, as will be described in detail later with reference to FIG. 20, in the abandoned position of the bicycle 12 with respect to the mobile terminals 90 of a plurality of potential users when the abandoned bicycle 12 is found. It is a module that supports the user to collect the abandoned bicycle 12 by sending a request to rent the abandoned bicycle 12 and return it to any station 20 all at once. ..

<Management server>

Next, to explain the hardware configuration of the management server 50 with reference to FIG. 10, which is a functional block diagram, the management server 50 has a memory 162 that stores a processor 160 and a plurality of applications executed by the processor 160. It is mainly composed of a computer 164 having the same.

The management server 50 further includes a display unit (for example, a liquid crystal display) 166 that displays information, a reception unit 168 that receives a signal from the mobile terminal 90, and generates a signal and transmits the signal to the mobile terminal 90. It has a transmission unit 170 and a clock 172 for measuring the current time. The management server 50 does not directly receive from the transmitter 30, but substantially via the mobile terminal 90.

As shown in FIG. 11B, the memory 162 of the management server 50 stores a bicycle rental program for the management server 50, and the bicycle rental program has the following plurality of modules. There is.

1) Reservation module

This is a module having the same function as the reservation module of the mobile terminal 90, as will be described in detail later with reference to FIG.

2) Lending processing module when there is a reservation

This is a module having the same function as the reserved time loan processing module of the mobile terminal 90, as will be described in detail later with reference to FIG.

3) Lending processing module when there is no reservation

This is a module having the same function as the reservation-less lending processing module of the mobile terminal 90, as will be described in detail later with reference to FIG.

4) Return processing module

This is a module having the same function as the return processing module of the mobile terminal 90, as will be described in detail later with reference to FIG.

5) Illegally parked bicycle search module

This is a module having the same function as the illegally parked bicycle search module of the mobile terminal 90, as will be described in detail later with reference to FIG.

6) Illegally parked bicycle collection module

This is a module having the same function as the illegally parked bicycle recovery module of the mobile terminal 90, as will be described in detail later with reference to FIG.

<Overview of reservation sequence>

FIG. 12A shows an example of a reservation status table for managing the reservation status of a plurality of bicycles 12 by a plurality of users for each station 20 by executing the reservation module by the mobile terminal 90 and the management server 50. It is shown.

This reservation status table is created and updated on the management server 50, and the latest version thereof is shared with the mobile terminal 90. This reservation status table displays the presence / absence of a reservation and the scheduled rental time zone (including the date and time) for each station 20 and each bicycle 12.

The user visually checks this reservation status table on the screen 135 of his / her mobile terminal 90, refers to it, searches for the station 20 in which at least one bicycle 12 is waiting, and at least the station 20 is present. Search for one of the waiting bicycles 12 that has free time, and specify the desired date and time and time zone.

In FIG. 12A, a horizontal bar hatched with a diagonal line at the latest update time of the reservation status table in the time axis (from 0:00 to 23:59) for each bicycle 12 in the reservation status table. The time zone in which the bar exists indicates the time zone in which the reservation already exists, that is, the time zone with the prior appointment, while the time zone in which the bar does not exist is the time zone in which the reservation does not yet exist, that is, the time without the prior appointment. The band is displayed.

The user inputs the identification information of the selected station 20, the identification information of the selected bicycle 12, the rental date and time, and the return date and time into the mobile terminal 90 of the user, as illustrated in FIG. 15 (c). Thereby, both the corresponding station 20 and the bicycle 12 will be reserved.

FIG. 11B shows an example of a user-specific reservation content file for managing the reservation content of a plurality of users by executing the reservation module by the mobile terminal 90 and the management server 50.

This user-specific reservation content file is created and updated on the management server 50. This user-specific reservation content file is selected for each user, such as personal authentication information (user ID, password, etc.), location information for specifying the location of the selected station 20 (ID unique to the selected station 20). Location information for specifying the location of the selected bicycle 12 (ID unique to the selected bicycle 12), time information for defining the scheduled usage time zone for the selected bicycle 12 (scheduled start time, scheduled end time, scheduled usage time) (Length, etc.), the type of penalty imposed on the user for violating the rules that the user is required to comply with in order to receive this bicycle rental service, etc.

<Overview of the main sequence>

An outline of the main sequence by the system 10 that is carried out following the reservation sequence described above will be described with reference to FIG.

In FIG. 13, the time chart labeled “reception for station recognition” indicates whether or not the mobile terminal 90 receives the regular first transmitter ID from the first transmitter 30 at each moment. For convenience of explanation, it is represented by a pulse signal which is low level when the mobile terminal 90 is not receiving the regular first transmitter ID and is high level when it is being received.

Similarly, in the time chart labeled "reception for bicycle recognition" in the figure, the mobile terminal 90 receives the regular second transmitter ID from the second transmitter 32 at each moment. For convenience of explanation, whether or not the mobile terminal 90 has a low level when the mobile terminal 90 has not received the normal second transmitter ID and a high level when the mobile terminal 90 has received the ID is expressed as a pulse signal.

<Overview of the main sequence when there is a reservation>

In FIG. 13A, the user makes a reservation for the reserved bicycle 12 in the reserved station 20 with the scheduled rental start time (rental time) as 15:00 and the scheduled rental end time (return time) as 18:00. The outline of the main sequence is illustrated by multiple time charts.

1) Lending processing

First, it is assumed that the mobile terminal 90 has entered the first effective reception area because the user entered the reserved station (rental station) 20 at 15:30 one day in order to rent the reserved bicycle 12. Then, the mobile terminal 90 starts to effectively receive the first transmitter 30 (the "station recognition reception signal" in the figure rises).

Next, since the user approaches the reserved bicycle 12 existing in the station 20 this time and holds the mobile terminal 90 over the second transmitter 32 installed on the bicycle 12, the mobile terminal 90 is second. Assuming that the user has entered the effective reception area, the mobile terminal 90 starts to effectively receive the second transmitter 32 (the "bicycle recognition reception signal" in the figure rises).

As a result, at the time of 15:30, the mobile terminal 90 transitions to a state in which signals are simultaneously received from the first transmitter 30 and the second transmitter 32. That is, from the non-simultaneous reception state in which the mobile terminal 90 does not effectively receive the signal from any of the transmitters 30 and 32, or the signal is effectively received only from any of the transmitters 30 and 32, any of the transmitters 30 , 32 also transitions to the simultaneous reception state in which signals are effectively received.

Here, "a state in which the mobile terminal 90 is simultaneously receiving signals from the first transmitter 30 and the second transmitter 32" means that the mobile terminal 90 has a signal from the first transmitter 30 and a second transmitter 32. It means the reception state of both sides receiving both of the signal from the first transmitter 30, the timing when the mobile terminal 90 starts receiving the signal from the first transmitter 30, and the signal from the second transmitter 32 by the mobile terminal 90. It is not always required that the timing at which the reception of the is started coincides with each other.

At this time, the mobile terminal 90 (or the management server 50) determines that the user has actually started using the bicycle 12 (rental has been made).

Subsequently, the user inputs the lending request to the mobile terminal 90 within the first time limit of, for example, 5 minutes from the start time of use.

In response to the rental request, the management server 50 permits the user to rent the bicycle 12. That time is the start time of the actual rental time, but as a general rule, billing to the user starts from 15:00, which is the scheduled rental time. Specifically, from the scheduled rental time, the counting of all rental times referred to for calculating the final rental fee amount for the user is started.

After that, the user leaves the rental station 20 while riding the bicycle 12, and at that time, the mobile terminal 90 leaves the first effective reception area, so that the first transmitter 30 cannot be effectively received (transition to a state in which the first transmitter 30 cannot be effectively received (). The received signal for station recognition goes down).

On the other hand, as long as the user is on the bicycle 12, the mobile terminal 90 effectively receives the second transmitter 32, so that the bicycle recognition reception signal is maintained at a high level.

2) Return processing

The mobile terminal 90 because the user entered the same or different station (return station) 20 as the rental station 20 this time at 17:30 on the same day in order to return the bicycle 12 in use. Assuming that has entered the first effective reception area, the station recognition reception signal rises. Since the user has been riding the bicycle 12 before that, the mobile terminal 90 is in a state of continuously and effectively receiving the second transmitter 32.

As a result, at the time of 17:30, the mobile terminal 90 transitions to a state in which signals are simultaneously received from the first transmitter 30 and the second transmitter 32 (both reception states). That is, the mobile terminal 90 transitions from the non-simultaneous reception state in which the signal is effectively received only from the second transmitter 32 to the simultaneous reception state in which the signal is received from any of the transmitters 30 and 32.

At this time, the mobile terminal 90 (or the management server 50) determines that the user has actually finished using the bicycle 12.

Subsequently, the user inputs the return request to the mobile terminal 90 within the second time limit of, for example, 5 minutes from the end time of use.

In response to the return request, the management server 50 permits the user to return the bicycle 12. That time is the end time of the actual rental time, but in principle, the user will continue to be charged until 18:00, which is the scheduled return time. Specifically, the counting of all rental times ends at the scheduled return time.

After that, assuming that the mobile terminal 90 has left the second effective reception area because the user got off the bicycle 12, the mobile terminal 90 transitions to a state in which the second transmitter 32 cannot be effectively received, and the user recognizes the bicycle. The received signal goes down. This bicycle recognition reception signal is subsequently maintained at a low level because the user has not boarded the bicycle 12 this time.

Subsequently, assuming that the mobile terminal 90 has left the first effective reception area because the user has moved away from the bicycle 12 and left the return station 20 this time, the mobile terminal 90 has the second transmitter 32 valid. Transition to a state in which reception is not possible (the reception signal for station recognition falls).

When the management server 50 completes the calculation of the rental fee based on the length of the total rental time, the user electronically setstles the rental fee via the mobile terminal 90.

<Overview of the main sequence when there is no reservation>

FIG. 13 (b) outlines the main sequence, taking as an example a case where a user enters one of the stations 20 and selects one of the bicycles 12 in the station 20 to start a rental service. Illustrated in multiple time charts. Since these time charts are basically the same as those shown in FIG. 13A except for billing processing and the like, common elements will be briefly described.

1) Lending processing

First, the mobile terminal 90 entered the first effective reception area because the user entered one of the stations (rental stations) 20 at 15:30 one day in order to rent one of the bicycles 12. Assuming that, the mobile terminal 90 starts to effectively receive the first transmitter 30.

Next, the user approaches one of the bicycles 12 and holds the mobile terminal 90 over the second transmitter 32 installed on the bicycle 12, so that the mobile terminal 90 enters the second effective reception area. Assuming that, the mobile terminal 90 starts to effectively receive the second transmitter 32.

As a result, at the time of 15:30, the mobile terminal 90 transitions to a state in which signals are simultaneously received from the first transmitter 30 and the second transmitter 32 (both reception states).

At this time, the mobile terminal 90 (or the management server 50) determines that the user has actually started using the bicycle 12 (rental has been made).

Subsequently, the user inputs a lending request to the mobile terminal 90 within the first time limit from the start time of use.

In response to the rental request, the management server 50 permits the user to rent the bicycle 12. That time is the start time of the actual rental time, and in this case, the user is charged from the actual rental time of 15:30. Specifically, the counting of all rental times starts from the actual rental time.

After that, the user leaves the rental station 20 while riding the bicycle 12, and at that time, the mobile terminal 90 leaves the first effective reception area, so that the user cannot effectively receive the first transmitter 30.

On the other hand, as long as the user is on the bicycle 12, the mobile terminal 90 effectively receives the second transmitter 32, so that the bicycle recognition reception signal is maintained at a high level.

2) Return processing

The mobile terminal 90 because the user entered the same or different station (return station) 20 as the rental station 20 this time at 17:30 on the same day in order to return the bicycle 12 in use. Assuming that has entered the first effective reception area, the station recognition reception signal rises. Since the user has been riding the bicycle 12 before that, the mobile terminal 90 is in a state of continuously and effectively receiving the second transmitter 32.

As a result, at the time of 17:30, the mobile terminal 90 transitions to a state in which signals are simultaneously received from the first transmitter 30 and the second transmitter 32 (both reception states).

At this time, the mobile terminal 90 (or the management server 50) determines that the user has actually finished using the bicycle 12.

Subsequently, the user inputs a return request to the mobile terminal 90 within the second time limit from the end time of use.

In response to the return request, the management server 50 permits the user to return the bicycle 12. That time is the end time of the actual rental time, and the charge to the user is continued until 17:30, which is the actual return time. Specifically, the counting of all rental times ends at the actual return time.

After that, assuming that the mobile terminal 90 has left the second effective reception area because the user got off the bicycle 12, the mobile terminal 90 transitions to a state in which the second transmitter 32 cannot be effectively received, and the user recognizes the bicycle. The received signal goes down. This bicycle recognition reception signal is subsequently maintained at a low level because the user has not boarded the bicycle 12 this time.

Subsequently, assuming that the mobile terminal 90 has left the first effective reception area because the user has moved away from the bicycle 12 and left the return station 20 this time, the mobile terminal 90 has the second transmitter 32 valid. Transition to a state where it cannot be received.

When the management server 50 completes the calculation of the rental fee based on the length of the total rental time, the user electronically setstles the rental fee via the mobile terminal 90.

<Reservation sequence>

In FIG. 14, the user connects the mobile terminal 90 to the management server 90 at a place away from the station 20 to be reserved (for example, at home as shown in FIG. 1), and one of the bicycles in the station 20. An example of communication performed between the mobile terminal 90 and the management server 50 located at a remote location in order to reserve 12 is represented by a sequence flow in chronological order.

In the mobile terminal 90, when the user activates the bicycle rental program (already downloaded from the management server 50 and installed in the memory 132 of the mobile terminal 90), the user makes a plurality of modes and a plurality of requests. A plurality of buttons (display targets selectable by the user) operated for issuing are displayed on the screen of the mobile terminal 90.

Multiple modes and multiple requests include:

1) Reservation mode

Execution mode selected by the user to reserve station 20 and bicycle 12

2) Lending processing mode when there is a reservation

Execution mode selected by the user to activate the reserved rental processing module to rent the bicycle 12 at the station 20 in the reserved state.

3) Lending processing mode when there is no reservation

Execution mode selected by the user to activate the unreserved time lending processing module to rent a bicycle 12 at station 20 without reservation.

4) Return processing mode

Execution mode selected by the user to activate the return processing module to return the bicycle 12 to the station 20.

5) Lending request

A request made by the user to allow the user to rent the bicycle 12 after the start of the reservation-based rental processing module or the reservation-less rental processing module.

6) Return request

A request made by the user to allow the user to return the bicycle 12 after the return processing module is activated.

This time, when the button "reservation mode" is selected by the user, the reservation module of the bicycle rental program for the mobile terminal 90 is executed by the processor 130 of the mobile terminal 90, and the bicycle for the management server 50 is executed. Of the rental programs, the reservation module is executed by the processor 160 of the management server 50.

When the reservation module for the mobile terminal 90 is executed by the processor 130 of the mobile terminal 90, first, in step 101, the mobile terminal 90 determines the user's current position (1) based on the GPS signal received from the outside by the GPS receiver 152. It works so that the latitude and longitude) is measured.

Next, in step S102, the measured current position of the user is a reference position referred to by the processor 130 in order to display the map on the screen 135 of the display unit 136 (position of the display reference point (latitude and longitude)). It is said that. Further, the portion of the entire map having a size that can be displayed at one time in the window on the screen 135 and in which the reference position exists is the display range of the map (that is, the window of the entire map. It is determined in the area displayed at each moment).

As illustrated in FIG. 15 (a), when the user moves on the ground with time, the reference position 202 (indicated by a black triangle in the figure) also moves with time to follow it. As a result, as the user moves, the display range of the map also moves on the entire map with time, and eventually the image of the map displayed in the window also changes with time.

Subsequently, in step S103, a login request for logging in to the management server 50 (an example of the "service start signal") is transmitted to the management server 50 together with the user ID and password for identifying the user this time.

On the other hand, when the reservation module for the management server 50 is executed by the processor 160 of the management server 50, the management server 50 receives the login request together with the user ID and the password in step S201, and then the step. In S202, station data relating to the plurality of stations 20 (see FIG. 8 for a plurality of components of the station data) and bicycle data relating to a plurality of bicycles 12 belonging to the station 20 (a plurality of bicycle data thereof). For the components, the reservation status table (see FIG. 12A) is searched for in the memory 162 (or another memory) of the management server 50.

Then, in step S203, the searched station data, bicycle data, and reservation status table are transmitted to the mobile terminal 90.

On the other hand, the mobile terminal 90 receives the station data, the bicycle data, and the reservation status table in step S104. The received station data is stored in the station data memory 163 shown in FIG. 7, and as a result, the table shown in FIG. 8 is constructed. Further, the received bicycle data is stored in the bicycle data memory 165 shown in FIG. 7, and as a result, the table shown in FIG. 9 is constructed. The received reservation status table (see FIG. 12A) is stored in the reservation status table memory 167.

Subsequently, in step S105, among the plurality of stations 20 on the map displayed on the screen 135, a small number of candidate stations are located in the vicinity of the current position based on the stored station data. It is displayed as an overlay as 20.

In this step 105, all of the plurality of stations 20 (all stations 20 stored in the memory 162 of the management server 50) represented by the plurality of received station data are displayed on the screen 135. Do not mean. Only a plurality of stations 20 that are smaller than the plurality of stations 20 and are determined by the user's current position and the size of the screen 135 are displayed on the screen 135. That is, the plurality of stations 20 received from the management server 50 are further narrowed down to a small number of candidate stations 20 depending on the current position of the user and the size of the screen 135.

In one example, as shown in FIG. 15A, the user's current position is overlaid on the map displayed on the screen 135 using the black triangle 202, and a plurality of candidate stations 20 are displayed. It is displayed as an overlay using a plurality of station display icons 204. In this example, the three station display icons 204 are configured as a figure in which the alphabets "A", "B", and "C" are surrounded by a rectangular frame.

In the present embodiment, for convenience of explanation, the portion of the system 10 in which step S105 is executed constitutes an example of the "candidate station display unit" and an example of the "candidate station display process" in the above item (8). It is possible to think that there is.

In the same procedure as in step S105, in the return processing sequence flow described in detail later with reference to FIG. 18, the user uses prior information to use a plurality of stations 20 as the return destination of the bicycle 12. It is possible to select from the candidates in consideration of, for example, the distance from the user's current position and the distance from the user's nearest station.

Subsequently, in step S106, the user selects any station 20 as the current selection station 20 by touching the display position of any candidate station 20 on the screen 135 with a finger.

Specifically, when the user touches the display position of any of the candidate stations 20 on the screen 135 with a finger, the touch position is detected by the touch screen of the display unit 136, and the touch position is, for example, a map. Converted to map coordinate information (position information) which is the above latitude and longitude (defined by the global coordinate system which is the absolute coordinate system) or the corresponding xy coordinate information (defined by the device coordinate system which is the relative coordinate system). Will be done. One of the candidate stations 20 is specified based on the map coordinate information.

Then, in step S107, as illustrated in FIG. 15B, the reservation status table is displayed on the screen 135.

Subsequently, in step S108, as illustrated in FIG. 15C, the identification information (for example, the name) of the station (for example) 20 to be reserved and the identification information of the bicycle (rental bicycle) 12 to be reserved. Enter (for example, number), lending date and time (planned), and return date and time (planned). Here, inputting the identification information of the bicycle 12 to be reserved into the mobile terminal 90 by the user is equivalent to performing an operation for selecting one of the bicycles 12 on the mobile terminal 90 by the user.

After that, in step S109, the mobile terminal 90 transmits the input reservation content to the management server 50 in association with the user (for example, together with the user ID).

As a result, the identification information of the rental station 20 and the identification information of the rental bicycle 12 are paired (linked), the pair is associated with the identification information of the user this time, and the information is associated with the mobile terminal. It is transmitted from 90 to the management server 50.

On the other hand, in step S204, the management server 50 associates the reservation content with the user and receives it (for example, together with the user ID). Subsequently, in step S205, the management server 50 registers the received reservation content in the plurality of user-specific reservation content files (see FIG. 12B) associated with the current user. Further, the reservation status table stored in the memory 162 is updated so that the received reservation contents are reflected.

After that, the management server 50 transmits a message to the effect that the reservation is completed to the mobile terminal 90 in step S206.

On the other hand, the mobile terminal 90 displays the received message on the screen 135 or outputs it by voice. By this display, the user is informed that his / her reservation has been completed.

<Lending processing sequence when there is a reservation>

In FIG. 16, the user enters the reserved station 20 and then approaches the reserved bicycle 12 and is located at the station 20 in order to get permission to rent the bicycle 12. An example of communication performed between the first transmitter 30 and the second transmitter 32 installed on the bicycle 12, the user's mobile terminal 90, and the management server 50 is a sequence flow in chronological order. It is represented by.

Both the first and second transmitters 30 and 32 spontaneously and continuously transmit an identification signal peculiar to themselves. If the user enters the reserved station 20, the mobile terminal 90 will be in the first effective reception area of the first transmitter 30 (see FIG. 6), so that the mobile terminal 90 is the first. 1 Effectively receive the identification signal from the transmitter 30. Eventually, when the user holds the mobile terminal 90 over the second transmitter 32 of the bicycle 12 reserved, the mobile terminal 90 is present in the second effective reception area of the second transmitter 32 (. See FIG. 6).

In the present embodiment, the reception range of the first effective reception area of the first transmitter 30 is set to the long range regardless of the presence or absence of reservation, while the reception range of the second effective reception area of the second transmitter 32. Is the short range. This setting is valid regardless of whether it is a lending process or a return process.

This time, the user selects a button called "rental processing mode when there is a reservation" on the screen of the mobile terminal 90. In response to this, the reserved time-of-rent processing module for the mobile terminal 90 is executed by the mobile terminal 90. By the execution, first, in step 151, the login request for the mobile terminal 90 to log in to the management server 50 is transmitted to the management server 50 together with the user ID and password for identifying the user this time.

On the other hand, when the reserved loan processing module for the management server 50 is executed by the management server 50, the management server 50 receives the login request together with the user ID and password in step S251.

Subsequently, in step S252, among the plurality of user-specific reservation content files, those associated with the current user are searched in the memory 162. Further, in the searched user-specific reservation content file, information on the reserved station 20 (rental station) among the plurality of stations 20 and the reserved bicycle 12 among the plurality of bicycles 12 of the station 20 are reserved. Information about (rental bicycle) is searched as information related to this user reservation.

Then, in step S253, the searched user reservation-related information is transmitted to the mobile terminal 90.

On the other hand, the mobile terminal 90 receives the user reservation related information this time in step S152. Subsequently, in step S153, in the user reservation related information this time, the transmitter code assigned in advance to the regular first transmitter 30 that should be installed in the reserved station 20 is the regular first. In addition to being searched as a transmitter code, the transmitter code assigned in advance to the regular second transmitter 32 that should be installed on the reserved bicycle 12 is searched as the regular second transmitter code. .. The regular first and second transmitter codes for the user are acquired.

Subsequently, in step S154, the mobile terminal 90 receives a signal from at least one of at least one first transmitter 30 and at least one second transmitter 32 existing in the station 20 this time.

On the other hand, as described above, when the mobile terminal 90 is currently located outside the first receivable area of the first transmitter 30, the mobile terminal 90 cannot receive the identification signal from the first transmitter 30 at all. On the other hand, when the mobile terminal 90 is currently located in the first receivable area of the first transmitter 30, the mobile terminal 90 can receive the identification signal from the first transmitter 30.

Further, even if the mobile terminal 90 receives the identification signal from the first transmitter 30, there is a possibility that the mobile terminal 90 is currently located outside the first effective reception area of the first transmitter 30, or the effective reception area. It may exist within.

Such a situation also applies to the second transmitter 32.

The mobile terminal 90 can receive a plurality of signals from a plurality of transmitters simultaneously and distinguishably from each other. Each transmitter emits a unique signal, for example, the source address (corresponding to the transmitter ID) in the header of each packet of the signal is different from that of other transmitters. Focusing on this, the mobile terminal 90 can individually handle a plurality of signals received at the same time.

Therefore, following step S154, in step S155, the mobile terminal 90 makes the following three types of determinations.

1) The first effective reception determination of whether or not the mobile terminal 90 has effectively received the identification signal from the first transmitter 30, that is, the measured value of the distance between the mobile terminal 90 and the first transmitter 30 is the first valid. Judgment whether it is smaller than the effective reception radius (long range) of the reception area

2) The second effective reception determination of whether or not the mobile terminal 90 has effectively received the identification signal from the second transmitter 32, that is, the measured value of the distance between the mobile terminal 90 and the second transmitter 32 is the second valid. Judgment whether it is smaller than the effective reception radius (short range) of the reception area

3) Simultaneous reception determination of whether or not the mobile terminal 90 has received from the first transmitter 30 and the second transmitter 32 at the same time, that is, the timing at which the first effective reception determination of the first transmitter 30 is affirmed and the second. Determining whether or not the timing at which the first effective reception determination of the transmitter 32 was affirmed was substantially the same time.

The mobile terminal 90 can refer to the already stored station data (FIG. 8), determine which transmitter corresponds to the first transmitter 30 (station-side transmitter), and is already stored. It is possible to determine which transmitter corresponds to the second transmitter 32 (bicycle side transmitter) by referring to the bicycle data (FIG. 9). Therefore, the mobile terminal 90 applies the effective reception radius of the first effective reception area (for example, the long range) to the effective reception determination of which transmitter, and the effective reception area of the second effective reception area is applied to the effective reception determination of which transmitter. It can also be determined whether the reception radius (for example, the short range) is applied.

If any of the first effective reception determination, the second effective reception determination, and the simultaneous reception determination is negative at the time of executing this step 155, the determination in this step 155 becomes NO, and the process returns to step S154. On the other hand, if any of the first effective reception determination, the second effective reception determination, and the simultaneous reception determination is positive, the determination in step 155 becomes YES, and the process proceeds to step S156.

In this step S156, the mobile terminal 90 demodulates the received identification signal, and subsequently, in step S157, the mobile terminal 90 uses the transmitter ID represented by the demodulated identification signal as the actual transmitter ID. Decode as. Specifically, the mobile terminal 90 has an actual first transmitter ID represented by a signal received from the first transmitter 30 and an actual second transmitter ID represented by a signal received from the second transmitter 32. And get.

When the demodulated identification signal is a code represented by a multi-digit binary number, for example, the code is prepared in advance in a conversion table (for example, one downloaded in advance from the management server 50). Is converted into a transmitter ID. However, in terms of usage, the difference between "code" and "ID" is not important as long as the use is identification.

Subsequently, in step S158, the mobile terminal 90 has the actual first and second actual transmitter IDs thus decoded and the regular first and second transmitter IDs acquired by the execution of step S153. It is determined whether or not they match each other. That is, ID collation is performed.

Here, the "actual first transmitter ID" is the first transmitter (selected actual first transmitter) actually installed in the plurality of stations 20 actually selected and visited by the user. Machine) 30 means the first transmitter ID, while the "regular first transmitter ID" is virtually selected by the user operating the mobile terminal 90 among the plurality of stations 20. It means the first transmitter ID corresponding to the first transmitter (selected virtual first transmitter) 30 that should be installed in the object.

Similarly, the "actual second transmitter ID" is the second transmitter (selected actual second transmitter) 32 that is actually installed in the bicycle 12 that is actually selected by the user. On the other hand, the "regular second transmitter ID" is installed in a plurality of bicycles 12 that are virtually selected by the user by operating the mobile terminal 90. It means a transmitter ID corresponding to the second transmitter (selected virtual second transmitter) 32 that should have been set.

After that, in step S159, the mobile terminal 90 determines whether or not each actual transmitter ID and each regular transmitter ID match each other, that is, whether or not the ID verification is successful.

If the ID verification is not successful, the determination in step S159 becomes NO, and then in step S160, the mobile terminal 90 tells the user again the first transmitter 30 and the second transmission by the mobile terminal 90. Retrying to detect the machine 32 is urged, for example, by displaying an appropriate message on the screen 135 or outputting it by voice. After that, the process returns to step S154.

On the other hand, if the ID verification is successful, the determination in step S159 is YES, and then in step S161, the mobile terminal 90 has the bicycle 12 before renting at the station 20 this time at the current time. It is determined that the bicycle is used. This determination is equivalent to the determination that the user has started using (rented) the bicycle 12 this time at the station 20 this time.

In one example, the user arrives at the station 20 this time after activating the rental processing module, but the determination in step S155 is NO until the reserved bicycle 12 has not arrived yet. When the user eventually arrives at the bicycle 12, the determination in step S155 changes from NO to YES.

At this time, if the mobile terminal 90 has received the signal representing the regular second transmitter ID, the ID verification is successful, and the determination in step S159 is YES. Then, in step S161, it is determined that the first first transition has occurred at the current time.

Here, the timing at which the determination in step S159 is YES is the timing at which the mobile terminal 90 transitions from the state in which the normal second transmitter ID is not received to the state in which the mobile terminal 90 receives the normal second transmitter ID (“Bicycle recognition reception” in the example of FIG. 13 (a). Matches the temporal position of the "rising edge" of the "signal").

After that, in step S162, a lending request is input from the user to the mobile terminal 90 (for example, a virtual button (for example, a “lending button”) operated to command the “lending request” is operated by the user). Whether or not it is determined. If a loan request is input, the determination in step S162 is YES.

Subsequently, in step S163, a determination result that the user has issued a lending request and that the user has actually started using the reserved bicycle 12 at the currently reserved station 20. Is associated with the user (eg, along with the user ID) and transmitted to the management server 50.

On the other hand, in step S254, the management server 50 receives the information transmitted by the mobile terminal 90 by executing the step S163.

Then, in step S255, the current time is measured using the clock 172. Subsequently, in step S256, the current time is recognized as the actual lending time. Subsequently, in step S257, the user is permitted to rent the bicycle 12 this time.

Then, in step S258, the billing start time is determined for each user. As a general rule, billing starts from the scheduled rental time, and the amount corresponding to the length of the elapsed time (usage time, rental time, rental time) from the scheduled rental time is calculated as the rental amount.

As described above, the case where the lending request is normally issued by the user immediately after the mobile terminal 90 effectively receives the two regular transmitters 30 and 32 at the same time (both reception states are established) has been described. If not, the determination in step S162 becomes NO, and then, in step S164, it is determined whether or not the elapsed time from the execution time of step S161 is currently within the first time limit (for example, 5 minutes). Will be done.

If it is within the first time limit, the determination in step S164 becomes YES, and in step S165, inputting a lending request to the user can be performed by, for example, displaying an appropriate message on the screen 135 or by voice. It is urged by being output. Then, the process returns to step S162.

On the other hand, if the elapsed time from the execution time of step S161 currently exceeds the first time limit, the determination in step S164 becomes NO, and then, in step S166, the first violation acts occur in the user. It is determined that it has been done.

Subsequently, in step S167, this time, the fact that the first violation has occurred to the user is transmitted to the management server 50. The transmission content is received by the management server 50 in step S254, and this time, the rental of the bicycle 12 is prohibited.

<Lending processing sequence without reservation>

In FIG. 17, a user enters any station 20 without a reservation, then approaches one of the bicycles 12 and has the station 20 allowed to rent the bicycle 12. An example of communication performed between the first transmitter 30 located in, the second transmitter 32 installed on the bicycle 12, the user's mobile terminal 90, and the management server 50 is sequenced in chronological order.・ It is represented by a flow. Since this flow has many elements in common with the flow shown in FIG. 16, only different elements will be described in detail.

This time, the button "Lending processing mode without reservation" is selected by the user on the screen of the mobile terminal 90. In response to this, the non-reserved loan processing module for the mobile terminal 90 is executed by the mobile terminal 90.

By the execution, first, in step 201, a login request for logging in to the management server 50 is transmitted to the management server 50 together with the user ID and password for identifying the user this time, as in step S151 described above. To.

On the other hand, when the non-reserved lending processing module for the management server 50 is executed by the management server 50, the management server 50 makes the login request in step S271 in the same manner as in step S251 described above with the user ID and the login request. Receive with password.

Subsequently, in step S272, the reservation status table (FIG. 12A) is searched for in the memory 162. Then, in step S273, the searched reservation status table is transmitted to the mobile terminal 90.

On the other hand, the mobile terminal 90 receives the reservation status table in step S202. Subsequently, in step S203, the received reservation status table is displayed on the screen 135.

Subsequently, in step S204, similarly to step S154 described above, the mobile terminal 90 is at least one of at least one first transmitter 30 and at least one second transmitter 32 existing in the station 20 this time. Receive a signal from one.

After that, in step S205, the mobile terminal 90 performs the first effective reception determination, the second effective reception determination, and the simultaneous reception determination in the same manner as in step S155 described above.

If the determination in step 205 is NO, the process returns to step S204, but if the determination in step 205 is YES, the process proceeds to step S206.

In this step S206, the mobile terminal 90 demodulates the received identification signal in the same manner as in step S156 described above, and subsequently, in step S207, the mobile terminal 90 demodulates the received identification signal in the same manner as in step S157 described above. From the identified signal, the actual first transmitter ID of the first transmitter 30 and the actual second transmitter ID of the second transmitter 32 are acquired.

Subsequently, in step S208, the user has selected the current station (rental station) 20 and the current bicycle (rental bicycle) 12 as a result of reception from the first transmitter 30 and the second transmitter 32. , Is displayed on the screen 135 together with the reservation status table. Thereby, the user confirms the station 20 and the bicycle 12 selected by the user.

Further, in this step S208, the user inputs the scheduled return time for the bicycle 12 to the mobile terminal 90.

After that, in step S209, the mobile terminal 90 extracts the individual reservation status corresponding to the current station 20 and the current bicycle 12 from the reservation status table, and the reserved time zone in the individual reservation status is set. It is determined whether or not there is an overlap with the scheduled usage time zone from the actual lending time of this time to the scheduled return time, that is, whether or not there is a prior contract.

If there is a prior agreement, the determination in step S209 becomes NO, and then in step S210, the mobile terminal 90 tells the user again by the mobile terminal 90 that the first transmitter 30 and the same as in step S160. It is urged to retry to detect the second transmitter 32. Then, the process returns to step S204.

On the other hand, if there is no prior contract, the determination in step S209 is YES, and then in step S211, the mobile terminal 90 has the bicycle 12 before renting at the station 20 this time at the current time. It is determined that there is. This determination is equivalent to the determination that the user has started using (rented) the bicycle 12 this time at the station 20 this time.

After that, in step S212, it is determined whether or not the lending request has been input to the mobile terminal 90 by the user, as in step S162 described above. When the lending request is input, the determination in step S212 is YES.

Subsequently, in step S213, according to the above-mentioned step S163, the determination result that the user actually started using the bicycle 12 at the station 20 this time (rental was performed) is associated with the user. (For example, together with the user ID) and sent to the management server 50.

As a result, the identification information of the rental station 20 and the identification information of the rental bicycle 12 are paired (linked), the pair is associated with the identification information of the user this time, and the information is associated with the mobile terminal. It is transmitted from 90 to the management server 50.

On the other hand, in step S274, the management server 50 receives the information transmitted by the mobile terminal 90 by executing the step S213, as in the above-mentioned step S254.

Subsequently, in step S275, the current time is measured using the clock 172 in the same manner as in step S255 described above. Subsequently, in step S276, the current time is recognized as the actual lending time in the same manner as in step S256 described above. Subsequently, in step S277, the rental of the bicycle 12 to the user is permitted in the same manner as in step S257 described above.

After that, in step S278, the billing start time is determined for each user in the same manner as in step S258. Subsequently, in step S279, the contents of the current loan, that is, the identification information of the rental station 20, the identification information of the rental bicycle 12, the actual rental time, and the scheduled return time are reserved for each of the plurality of users. Among the content files (see FIG. 12B), those associated with the user this time are registered.

Further, in this step S278, the reservation status table stored in the memory 162 is updated so that the contents of the loan this time are reflected.

The case where the determination in step S212 is YES has been described above, but if the determination is NO, the elapsed time from the execution time of step S211 is currently limited in step S214, as in step S164 described above. Whether or not it is within the time is determined.

If it is within the first time limit, the determination in step S214 becomes YES, and in step S215, the user is urged to input the lending request as in step S165. Then, the process returns to step S212.

On the other hand, if the elapsed time from the execution time of step S211 exceeds the first time limit, the determination in step S214 is NO, and then in step S216, as in step S166 described above, It is determined that the first violation has occurred in the user.

Subsequently, in step S217, as in step S167 described above, this time, it is transmitted to the management server 50 that the first violation has occurred to the user. The transmission content is received by the management server 50 in step S274 and in step S254 described above, and this time, the rental of the bicycle 12 is prohibited.

<Return processing sequence>

In FIG. 18, the user is riding on the borrowed bicycle 12 and driving, or while pushing the borrowed bicycle 12, the same or different station as the rental station (return station). After entering 20, make a reservation with the first transmitter 30 located at the station 20 and the second transmitter 32 installed at the bicycle 12 in order to get permission to return the bicycle 12. An example of communication performed between the user's mobile terminal 90 and the management server 50 in order to allow the return processing of the existing bicycle 12 is represented by a sequence flow in chronological order.

This time, the user selects a button called "return processing mode" on the screen of the mobile terminal 90. In response to this, the return processing module for the mobile terminal 90 is executed by the mobile terminal 90.

By the execution, first, in step 300, a login request for logging in to the management server 50 is transmitted to the management server 50 together with the user ID and password for identifying the user this time, as in step S151 described above. To.

On the other hand, when the return processing module for the management server 50 is executed by the management server 50, the management server 50 receives the login request together with the user ID and the password in step S400 as in the above-mentioned step S251. do.

On the other hand, in step S302, the mobile terminal 90 performs the first effective reception determination, the second effective reception determination, and the simultaneous reception determination in the same manner as in step S155.

If the determination in step 302 is NO, the process returns to step S301, but if the determination in step 302 is YES, the process proceeds to step S303.

In this step S303, the mobile terminal 90 demodulates the received identification signal in the same manner as in step S156 described above, and subsequently, in step S304, the mobile terminal 90 demodulates the received identification signal in the same manner as in step S157 described above. From the identified signal, the actual first transmitter ID of the first transmitter 30 and the actual second transmitter ID of the second transmitter 32 are acquired.

Subsequently, in step S305, the user has selected the current station (return station) 20 and the current bicycle (return bicycle) 12 as a result of reception from the first transmitter 30 and the second transmitter 32. It is displayed on the screen 135. Thereby, the user confirms the station 20 and the bicycle 12 selected by the user.

Further, in this step S305, the mobile terminal 90 determines that the returned bicycle (the bicycle that the user is about to return) 12 exists at the station 20 this time at the current time. This determination is equivalent to the determination that the user has finished using the bicycle 12 this time (returned) at the station 20 this time.

After that, in step S306, a return request is input from the user to the mobile terminal 90 according to the above-mentioned step S162 (for example, a virtual button operated to command the "return request" (for example, "return button"). ) Has been operated) or not. If a return request is input, the determination in step S306 is YES.

Subsequently, in step S307, the return request was issued by the user according to the above-mentioned step S163, and the user actually ended the use of the bicycle 12 at the station 20 this time (return is performed). The determination result (identification information of the return station 20 this time and identification information of the return bicycle 12 this time) is associated with the user and transmitted to the management server 50 (for example, together with the user ID).

As a result, the identification information of the return station 20 and the identification information of the return bicycle 12 are paired (linked), the pair is associated with the identification information of the user this time, and the information is associated with the mobile terminal. It is transmitted from 90 to the management server 50.

On the other hand, in step S401, the management server 50 receives the information transmitted by the mobile terminal 90 by executing the step S307, similarly to the above-mentioned step S254.

Then, in step S402, the current time is measured using the clock 172. Subsequently, in step S403, the current time is recognized as the actual return time. Then, in step S404, the user is permitted to return the bicycle 12 this time.

After that, in step S405, for each user, from the billing start time individually determined for each user to the billing end time (scheduled return time if there is a reservation, actual return time if there is no reservation). The time is calculated as the total rental time.

Subsequently, in step S406, the current rental amount is calculated based on the calculated total rental time length and the charge rate (increase rate) according to a charge table (not shown).

After that, in step S407, the reservation status table is updated so that the rental information about the bicycle 12 this time is deleted from the reservation status table. Subsequently, in step S408, information such as the calculated rental amount is transmitted to the mobile terminal 90.

On the other hand, the mobile terminal 90 receives information such as the rental amount from the management server 50 in step S308, and subsequently displays the rental amount on the screen in step S309. After that, in step S310, the electronic payment by the user is performed.

Subsequently, in step S311 the mobile terminal 90 transmits a logout request requesting logout from the management server 50 to the management server 50.

On the other hand, the management server 50 receives the logout request in step S409. Subsequently, in step S410, an acknowledgment signal ACK indicating that the reception of the logout request is normally completed is transmitted to the mobile terminal 90.

On the other hand, the mobile terminal 90 receives the acknowledgment signal ACK from the management server 50 in step S312.

The case where the determination in step S306 is YES has been described above, but if the determination is NO, the elapsed time from the execution time of step S305 is currently the second time limit in step S313 according to the above-mentioned step S164. It is determined whether or not it is within.

If it is within the second time limit, the determination in step S313 becomes YES, and in step S314, the user is urged to input a return request according to step S165. Then, the process returns to step S306.

On the other hand, if the elapsed time from the execution time of step S305 exceeds the second time limit, the determination in step S313 is NO, and then in step S315, the user causes a second violation. It is determined that it has been done. Subsequently, in step S316, it is transmitted to the management server 50 that the second violation has occurred to the user.

<Illegally parked bicycle search sequence>

FIG. 19 shows, in order to determine whether or not the user, after riding on the borrowed bicycle 12 and driving, got off the bicycle 12 at a place other than the station 20 and left the bicycle for some reason. An example of communication performed between the second transmitter 32 installed on the bicycle 12, the user's mobile terminal 90, and the management server 50 is represented by a sequence flow in chronological order.

This illegally parked bicycle search sequence is started when the user rents one of the bicycles 12 and the rental process is completed.

First, the user's mobile terminal 90 attempts to receive from the first and / or second transmitters 30, 32 in step S1901. Next, in step S1902, the mobile terminal 90 is effectively received from any of the first transmitters 30 (for example, the mobile terminal 90 is in the first reception range (for example, the distance from any of the first transmitters 30 is about 10 m). It is determined whether or not it is located inside).

When the mobile terminal 90 is effectively receiving from any first transmitter 30, it means that the user is staying in any station 20 together with the bicycle 12, and in this case, this It is not necessary to execute the illegally parked bicycle search sequence.

When the mobile terminal 90 is effectively receiving from any of the first transmitters 30, the determination in step S1902 becomes YES and the process returns to step S1901, but as shown in FIG. 22A, the mobile terminal 90 If is not effectively received from any of the first transmitters 30, the determination in step S1902 is NO.

Here, the fact that the mobile terminal 90 is not effectively received from any of the first transmitters 30 is that the reception signal from the first transmitter 30 is shown in the time chart shown in FIG. 22 (a) for convenience of explanation. The level of is represented as low level L. This notation method is the same for other time charts for the second transmitter.

Subsequently, the mobile terminal 90 attempts to receive from the first and / or second transmitters 30, 32 in step S1903. Then, in step S1904, this time, the second transmitter 32 effectively received (for example, the mobile terminal 90 has a second reception range shorter than the first reception range (for example, any second transmitter). It is determined whether or not the distance from 32 is located within about 5 m).

When the mobile terminal 90 is effectively receiving from any of the second transmitters 32, it means that there is a high possibility that the user is riding the bicycle 12 as illustrated in FIG. 21 (a). However, even in this case, it is not necessary to execute this illegally parked bicycle search sequence.

If the mobile terminal 90 is not effectively received from any of the second transmitters 32, the determination in step S1904 becomes NO and the process returns to step S1903, but the mobile terminal 90 is from any of the second transmitters 32. If the reception is valid, the determination in step S1904 is YES.

The determination of YES in step S1904 is equivalent to the determination that the user of this time is riding the bicycle 12 of this time.

However, based on the time derivative value (speed equivalent value) of the GPS measurement position of the mobile terminal 90 and / or the detection value of the acceleration sensor (not shown) mounted on the mobile terminal 90 (for example, the absolute value is equal to or higher than the reference value). (By determining whether or not the user is moving), and on condition that it is determined that the user is moving, when the determination in step S1904 is YES, this time. It is possible to determine that the user is riding the bicycle 12 this time and is moving.

Subsequently, in step S1905, the mobile terminal 90 acquires the actual second transmitter ID represented by the identification signal effectively received from any of the second transmitters 32, and the acquired actual second transmitter. The machine ID is converted into a bicycle ID corresponding to the actual second transmitter ID according to the correspondence relationship shown in FIG. Thereby, the bicycle 12 detected by the mobile terminal 90, that is, the bicycle 12 borrowed by the user is identified.

After that, the mobile terminal 90 attempts to receive from the first and / or second transmitters 30 and 32 in step S1906. Subsequently, in step S1907, the mobile terminal 90 was effectively received from the same second transmitter 32 as the second transmitter 32 determined to be effectively received in step S1904 (for example, the mobile terminal 90 is the same transmitter 32 as the previous time). It is determined whether or not it is located within the second reception range).

That is, in this step S1907, the mobile terminal 90 transmits a signal representing the same bicycle ID as the bicycle ID represented by the signal effectively received by the mobile terminal 90 from the second transmitter 32 in the second transmitter (second transmitter). It is determined whether or not the mobile terminal 90 is effectively receiving from the same transmitter) 32 as the previous time.

As illustrated in FIG. 21B, when the user abandons the bicycle 12 this time and leaves it unattended, the user's mobile terminal 90 is separated from or retracted from the second transmitter 32 mounted on the bicycle 12. As a result, the mobile terminal 90 deviates from the second reception range. Then, the mobile terminal 90 will transition from the reception state in which it can be effectively received from the second transmitter 32, which is the same as the previous time, to the non-reception state in which it cannot be effectively received.

If the mobile terminal 90 is still effectively receiving from the same second transmitter 32 as the previous time, the determination in step S1907 becomes YES, and the process returns to step S1906. If the determination in step S1907 is YES, the user is riding the bicycle 12 this time (sitting on the saddle 62 of the bicycle 12, driving / moving on the bicycle 12). It is equivalent to the fact that it was determined to be).

On the other hand, if the mobile terminal 90 has not effectively received from the same second transmitter 32 as the previous time this time, the determination in step S1907 is NO.

As shown in FIGS. 22 (a) and 22 (b), this determination result is the same as the previous time when the mobile terminal 90 is not effectively receiving the signal from the first transmitter 30 (during the period). This is equivalent to the determination that the reception state in which the signal is effectively received from the transmitter 32 has changed to the non-reception state in which the signal is not effectively received.

This determination result further determines that the user has disembarked from the bicycle 12 from the state in which the user is on the bicycle 12 while the user, the mobile terminal 90, and the bicycle 12 are not present in any of the stations 20 (for example,). It is also equivalent to the determination that the bicycle has transitioned to (a state of being separated from the bicycle 12).

In the present embodiment, the first transmitter 30 installed in each station 20 is used to determine whether or not the user, the mobile terminal 90, and the bicycle 12 are present in any of the stations 20. Instead of this, the GPS of the mobile terminal 90 is used, and whether or not the current position of the user and the mobile terminal 90 measured by the GPS does not match the position on the map of any station 20. The present invention may be carried out in a mode of determining whether or not.

After that, the mobile terminal 90 measures the current position by GPS in step S1908. Subsequently, as shown in FIG. 22 (c), in step S1909, the measured current position (x, y) (x: longitude, y: latitude) is stored in the memory 132 as a temporary neglected position.

After that, in step S1910, the mobile terminal 90 does not leave the bicycle 12 for the user separated from the bicycle 12, but rather rides the bicycle 12 to move to any station 20 and return the bicycle 12 to the user. An icon and / or a message for notifying is displayed on the screen 135.

Subsequently, in step S1911, the mobile terminal 90 determines whether or not the mobile terminal 90 has started to effectively receive from the second transmitter 32 this time because the user got on the bicycle 12 again this time. .. When the effective reception from the second transmitter 32 this time is started, this determination becomes YES, and then the process returns to step S1901.

On the other hand, when the effective reception from the second transmitter 32 this time is not started, the determination in step S1911 becomes NO, and the mobile terminal 90 is set in step S1912 as shown in FIG. 22 (d). , It is determined whether or not a predetermined time limit (for example, 5 minutes, 10 minutes, 1 hour) has elapsed. That is, it is determined whether or not the time for which the same determination result continues from the time when the determination result in step S1911 first becomes NO reaches the threshold time.

If the determination in step S1912 is NO, the process returns to step S1910, but if the determination in step S1912 is YES, the mobile terminal 90 uses the bicycle in step S1913 as shown in FIG. 22 (e). It is determined that 12 is an illegally parked bicycle. As a result, an illegally parked bicycle will be discovered.

As described above, in the present embodiment, the mobile terminal 90 exceeds the time limit (“predetermined time” in the above item (4)) from the start time of the non-reception state of the second transmitter 32. The bicycle 12 this time is recognized as an illegally parked bicycle.

Here, the length of the "time limit" may be set at the convenience of the rental company, but the time when the user stops the bicycle 12 and starts to wait for the bicycle 12 (not from the reception state). The length of the waiting time from the time when the bicycle transitions to the reception state) to the time when the bicycle returns to the bicycle 12 and starts to resume use of the bicycle 12 (the time when the non-reception state transitions to the reception state). It may be set according to the convenience and schedule of.

In order to prevent another person from arbitrarily starting to use the bicycle 12 during the waiting time, the original user locks the electronic lock of the bicycle 12 before leaving the bicycle 12. When the use of the bicycle 12 is resumed, the mobile terminal 90 or the management server 50 may send an unlocking signal to the electronic lock to unlock the electronic lock.

In place of or in addition to such an illegally parked bicycle determination method, the mobile terminal 90 may use the mobile terminal 90 even after the permitted rental time of the rental vehicle permitted by the user has elapsed, that is, even if the scheduled return time has elapsed. If the bicycle 12 is not returned to any station 20, the bicycle 12 may be recognized as an illegally parked bicycle.

In place of or in addition to these neglected determination methods, the mobile terminal 90 allows the mobile terminal 90 to visually, audibly or tactilely to the user after the non-reception state of the second transmitter 32 is initiated. By stimulating to, the bicycle 12 is urged to be returned to any station, and if the user does not respond to the reminder to the mobile terminal 90, even if the bicycle 12 is recognized as an illegally parked bicycle. good.

Subsequently, in step S1914, the mobile terminal 90 finally uses the temporary neglected position (x, y) stored in the memory 132 as the neglected position (x, y) as shown in FIG. 22 (f). handle. After that, in step S1915, the user's personal authentication information, the current bicycle ID representing the illegally parked bicycle, and the final illegally parked position (x, y) are transmitted to the management server 50 as illegally parked bicycle information. do.

On the other hand, in step S1951, the management server 50 receives the illegally parked bicycle information transmitted by the mobile terminal 90 by executing the step S1915.

After that, in step S1952, the management server 50 did not actually return the bicycle 12 to any of the stations 20, but as a rental station 20 in which the abandoned position of the bicycle 12 appears temporarily. Since the same bicycle 12 will be rented out to another user after being handled, the determination that the illegally parked bicycle 12 exists is regarded as the return of the bicycle 12. That is, the act of neglect is treated as the act of deemed return.

Subsequently, the management server 50 measures the current time using the clock 172 in step S1953. Subsequently, in step S1954, the current time is recognized as the deemed return time. After that, in step S1955, the time from the billing start time individually determined for each user to the billing end time (in this case, the deemed return time) is calculated as the total rental time for each user.

Subsequently, in step S1956, the management server 50 calculates the current rental amount based on the calculated total rental time length and the charge rate (increase rate) according to a charge table (not shown).

Then, in step S1957, the management server 50 calculates a penalty as a penalty imposed on the user because the user did not return the bicycle 12 to any station 20.

Subsequently, in step S1958, the management server 50 determines the identification information of the user who left the bicycle 12 this time, the bicycle ID that identifies the bicycle 12, and the left position of the bicycle 12 (as illustrated in FIG. 23). x, y), the start time of the neglect (that is, for example, the deemed return time or the transition time from the reception state to the non-reception state of the second transmitter 32), and the work of collecting the bicycle 12 by another user. Information indicating whether or not the work has been started and information indicating whether or not the work has been completed are associated with each other and stored in the memory 162. As a result, the illegally parked bicycle list is registered in the memory 162.

Further, in step S1958, the management server 50 updates the reservation status table so that the rental information about the bicycle 12 this time is deleted from the reservation status table.

Subsequently, in step S1959, the management server 50 transmits information such as the total value of the calculated rental amount and the surcharge, that is, the total rental amount payable by the user, to the mobile terminal 90.

On the other hand, the mobile terminal 90 receives information such as the total rental amount from the management server 50 in step S1916, and subsequently displays the total rental amount on the screen 135 in step S1917. Then, in step S1918, electronic payment by the user is enabled.

<Illegally parked bicycle collection sequence>

In FIG. 20, when an illegally parked bicycle 12 is found, it is installed on the illegally parked bicycle 12 so that the illegally parked bicycle 12 can be rented to another user at the abandoned position and returned to any station 20 by the user. An example of communication performed between the second transmitter 32, the mobile terminal 90 of another user, and the management server 50 is represented by a sequence flow in chronological order.

This illegally parked bicycle recovery sequence is started when the illegally parked bicycle 12 is found by the above-mentioned illegally parked bicycle search sequence.

First, in step S2051, the management server 50 reads out the bicycle ID for each illegally parked bicycle 12 before collection and the illegally parked position of the illegally parked bicycle 12 from the above-mentioned illegally parked bicycle list exemplified in FIG. 23. Next, in step S2052, for each illegally parked bicycle 12, the illegally parked bicycle data in which the bicycle ID and the illegally parked position are associated with each other are simultaneously transmitted to the mobile terminals 90 of a plurality of potential users. The illegally parked bicycle data is stored in the memory 132 of the mobile terminal 90 of each other user.

On the other hand, the mobile terminal 90 of each other user receives the illegally parked bicycle data transmitted from the management server 50 in step S2001. Subsequently, in step S2002, the current position of the user is measured by GPS. Then, in step S2003, as illustrated in FIG. 24, a map in the vicinity of the current position (indicated by the black-painted triangle 202 in the figure) is displayed on the screen 135.

Subsequently, in step S2004, the mobile terminals 90 of the other users are placed in the abandoned position of each abandoned bicycle 12 represented by the abandoned bicycle data (in the figure, in a rectangular frame, as shown in the figure). (Indicated by a figure with "D") is displayed as an overlay on the map on the screen 135.

After that, the mobile terminal 90 of each of the other users attempts to effectively receive from the first and / or the second transmitters 30 and 32 in step S2005. Subsequently, in step S2006, it is determined whether or not the mobile terminal 90 has been effectively received from any of the second transmitters 32 (the mobile terminal 90 is within the second reception range).

If the mobile terminal 90 of each of the other users is not effectively received from any of the second transmitters 32, the determination in step S2006 becomes NO, and the process returns to step S2005.

On the other hand, as illustrated in FIG. 21 (c), one of the potential other users (hereinafter referred to as "another user") is the mobile terminal 90 of the other user. Relying on the above-mentioned guidance information displayed on the screen 135, it is assumed that one of the illegally parked bicycles 12 is approached to rent it.

Further, as shown in FIG. 21D, another user gets on the illegally parked bicycle 12, and as a result, the other user's mobile terminal 90 effectively receives from any second transmitter 32. Suppose you did. In this case, the determination in step S2006 is YES.

After that, in step S2007, the mobile terminal 90 of another user uses the identification signal effectively received from any of the second transmitters 32 of the abandoned bicycle 12 on which the second transmitter 32 is supposed to be mounted. Get a bicycle ID.

Subsequently, whether or not the acquired bicycle ID of the mobile terminal 90 of another user matches any of the bicycle IDs of at least one illegally parked bicycle 12 stored in the memory 132 in step S2008. To judge. If it does not match the bicycle ID of any of the illegally parked bicycles 12, the determination in step S2008 becomes NO and the process returns to step S2005, but if it matches the bicycle ID of any of the illegally parked bicycles 12, the determination in step S2008. Is YES.

After that, the mobile terminal 90 of another user sets the time in step S2009 when the user plans to rent and use the bicycle 12, that is, an illegally parked bicycle 12, and then return it to any station 20. Assist in typing.

Subsequently, in step S2010, the mobile terminal 90 of another user inputs a rental request for the bicycle 12 (for example, a virtual button operated to command a “rental request” (for example, a “rental button”). ") Is operated by the user). If a loan request is input, the determination in step S2010 is YES.

After that, the mobile terminal 90 of another user associates with the user that the lending request is issued from the user in step S2011 and that the user has started using the bicycle 12 this time (for example, the user). Send to management server 50 (along with ID).

On the other hand, in step S2053, the management server 50 receives the information transmitted by the mobile terminal 90 of each other user by executing the step S2011. Then, in step S2054, the illegally parked bicycle table is updated so that the information about the current bicycle 12 is deleted from the illegally parked bicycle table illustrated in FIG. 23.

Subsequently, the management server 50 measures the current time in step S2055 using the clock 172 in the same manner as in step S255 described above. Subsequently, in step S2056, the current time is recognized as the actual lending time in the same manner as in step S256 described above. Subsequently, in step S2057, the user is permitted to rent the bicycle 12 (this time, an illegally parked bicycle) to the user in the same manner as in step S257 described above.

After that, in step S2058, the management server 50 determines the billing start time for each user in the same manner as in step S258. Subsequently, the management server 50 transmits necessary information to another user's mobile terminal 90, whereby the user can know that the bicycle 12 has been rented out and billing has started at the neglected position.

As will be described later, the present invention can be implemented in a mode in which the first transmitter 30 is not installed in each station 20, but in the present embodiment, the first transmitter 30 is installed in each station 20. Since it is installed, the effect caused by it can be obtained.

That is, in the present embodiment, each bicycle 12 and the station 20 in which the bicycle 12 actually exists are associated with each other when the bicycle 12 is rented and returned at each station 20. Therefore, the management server 50, that is, the rental company can remotely monitor the number of bicycles 12 actually existing in each station 20 in real time.

Therefore, the rental company can remotely monitor the excess or deficiency of the number of stored bicycles 12 for each station 20 in real time, and the user can use the station 20 which seems to have a shortage of stored bicycles 12. On the other hand, it is possible to guide potential users to encourage users to use the station 20 where the number of stored bicycles 12 is excessive.

By doing so, since a plurality of users will perform the work of optimally distributing the stored bicycle 12 among the plurality of stations 20 on behalf of the rental company, the rental company will bother to go to each station 20. The need to go out and work to eliminate the excess or deficiency of the storage bicycle 12 at each station 20 is reduced.

In the present embodiment, the first transmitter 30 is installed in each station 20, so that the user is currently staying in any of the stations 20 or in a place other than the station 20 (that is,). , Which station 20 is not staying), and it is also possible to know which station 20 the user is currently staying at.

However, instead of the first transmitter 30, a display object (immovable display object or variable display object) that visualizes a code (for example, a bar code or a QR code (registered trademark)) that can identify each station 20 is displayed. ) May be installed in each station 20 to carry out the present invention.

<Second embodiment>

Next, a system 10 according to an exemplary second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 25-28. However, by quoting the parts common to the system 10 according to the first embodiment by using the same reference numerals and names, duplicate explanations will be omitted, and only different parts will be described in detail.

In the first embodiment described above, in order to carry out a one-way bicycle rental business that is a station type in principle, a plurality of bicycles 12 are temporarily assigned to a plurality of stations 20 that are permanently assigned to the land. The bicycle 12 is rented and returned at each station 20. Further, a first transmitter 30 is installed in each station 20.

On the other hand, in the present embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 25, the bicycle 12 is rented and returned at an arbitrary place in order to carry out the free-floating one-way bicycle rental business. Of course, the first transmitter 30 is not installed in such an arbitrary place.

In the example shown in FIG. 25, a user X selects a bicycle parking lot 300 on the road, which is one of a plurality of bicycle parking lots (bicycle parking lots dedicated to bicycle rental) assigned to both sides of a public road, and rents a bicycle 12 there. .. When the purpose is reached, the user X selects another bicycle parking lot 300 on the road and returns the bicycle 12 there.

Therefore, in the present embodiment, the concept of leaving the bicycle 12 does not exist, but in the first embodiment described above, the term "leaving" may be synonymous with the term "returning" as described above. There was sex.

Therefore, the term "return" in the present embodiment means "return (return to any station 20 by the person himself / herself, and a preparatory act for lending the bicycle 12 to another person at that station 20" in the first embodiment. ) ”And the latter of the terms“ abandoned (preparatory act for renting a bicycle 12 to another person at the abandoned place) ”.

<Lending sequence>

In FIG. 26, a lending processing module executed for executing lending processing by the user's mobile terminal 90 and a lending processing module executed for executing lending processing by the management server 50 are in a lending sequence. Represented as a flow.

Specifically, in step S2601, the mobile terminal 90 sends a request to log in to the website of the management server 50 to the management server 50.

In response to this, the management server 50 receives the login request in step S2651. Subsequently, in step S2652, the management server 50 searches the memory 162 for storage position data representing the positions of the plurality of storage locations 300 in which the bicycle 12 is currently stored.

The plurality of storage locations 300 substantially function as a plurality of temporary stations (arbitrary locations for renting and returning the bicycle 12) for the user. After that, in step S2653, the management server 50 transmits the storage position data representing the map positions (x, y) of the storage locations 300 to the mobile terminal 90 in association with each temporary station ID.

In response to this, the mobile terminal 90 receives the transmitted storage position data in step S2602 and stores it in the memory 132. Subsequently, in step S2603, the mobile terminal 90 measures its own current position, that is, the user's current position by GPS.

After that, in step S2604, the mobile terminal 90 displays a map in the vicinity of the current position on the screen 135, and further, is in the vicinity of the current position among the plurality of stored storage locations 300 (that is, the temporary station 300). Overlay things on the displayed map.

As a result, the user can know some temporary stations 300 existing in the vicinity of his / her current position. After that, the user selects one of the temporary stations 300 and moves toward the position, and eventually the user approaches the temporary station 300 and the bicycle 12 existing therein.

Subsequently, in step S2605, the mobile terminal 90 requests the user to touch or hold the mobile terminal 90 to the second transmitter 32 for reception from the second transmitter 32 mounted on any of the bicycles 12. The short range (or the mobile terminal 90 is required to be brought closer to the second transmitter 32, though not so much as to be held over the second transmitter 32 (or, if the user is on the bicycle 12, the mobile terminal). Even if the 90 is not held over the second transmitter 32, the mobile terminal 90 will effectively receive from the second transmitter 32). The trial may be performed under the medium range).

After that, in step S2606, the mobile terminal 90 determines whether or not the transition from the non-reception state in which the signal is not effectively received from any of the second transmitters 32 to the reception state in which the signal is effectively received is made. If there is no such transition, the determination in step S2606 becomes NO and the process returns to step S2605, but if there is such a transition and the determination in step S2606 becomes YES, the process proceeds to step S2607.

As illustrated in FIG. 28, the mobile terminal 90 cannot be effectively received from the second transmitter 32 before the user gets on the bicycle 12 and the user is away from the second transmitter 32. The received signal at that time is conceptually at the low level L. Eventually, when the user approaches the second transmitter 32 or rides on the bicycle 12, the mobile terminal 90 starts to effectively receive from the second transmitter 32. The received signal at that time is conceptually at the high level H.

In step S2607 described above, the mobile terminal 90 determines that "rental start". Subsequently, in step S2608, the current position of itself is measured by GPS. The position is the current position of the user, the position of one temporary station 300 where the user is currently (this time functions as a rental station), and one parked (parked) at the temporary station 300. It is also the location of the bicycle 12.

After that, in step S2609, the mobile terminal 90 acquires the bicycle ID corresponding to the current bicycle 12 from the effectively received signal. The bicycle ID is stored in the memory 132 as a rental bicycle ID. Subsequently, in step S2610, the rental bicycle ID is displayed on the screen 135, and further, the "rental button", which is an icon operated for the user to wish to rent the bicycle 12, is displayed on the screen 135. do.

After that, in step S2611, the mobile terminal 90 has a bicycle ID displayed on the bicycle 12 actually selected by the user (for example, “2001” in the example shown in FIG. 1 (b)) and the screen 135. It is determined whether or not the user has operated the "rental button" because the displayed bicycle IDs match each other.

If the user does not operate the "rental button", the determination in step S2611 becomes NO and the process returns to the same step S2611, but if the user operates the "rental button", the determination in step S2611 becomes YES and the step In S2612, the user requested to rent the bicycle 12 this time to the bicycle ID of this time, the position on the map of the temporary station 300 this time (this time, the position of the rental station), and the user ID. It is associated and transmitted to the management server 50.

In response to this, the management server 50 receives the lending request in step S2654, and subsequently measures the current time using the clock 172 in step S2655. Subsequently, in step S2656, the current time is recognized as the actual lending time. Subsequently, in step S2657, the user is permitted to rent the bicycle 12 this time.

After that, in step S2658, the management server 50 determines the billing start time for the user as the actual lending time. Subsequently, in step S2659, data indicating that the lending is permitted and the billing start time is transmitted to the mobile terminal 90.

In response to this, the mobile terminal 90 receives the transmitted data in step S2613.

In line with this, the mobile terminal 90 transmits an unlocking signal to the electronic lock (for example, wheel lock, steering wheel lock) mounted on the bicycle 12 this time by a short-range communication method, thereby releasing the electronic lock. It is possible to unlock. After unlocking, the user can use the bicycle 12 this time. Instead of this, the management server 50 may transmit the same unlock signal by a long-distance communication method.

After that, in step S2614, the mobile terminal 90 displays the data received in the preceding step S2613 on the screen 135.

As illustrated in FIG. 28, if the bicycle 12 is allowed to be rented to the user as described above and the necessary unlocking is completed, the user can get on the bicycle 12 and start running. In this case, strictly speaking, the rental time is calculated from the actual rental time, but it is actually calculated from the time when the user gets on the bicycle 12.

<Return sequence>

In FIG. 27, a return processing module executed to execute the return processing by the user's mobile terminal 90 and a return processing module executed to execute the return processing by the management server 50 are a return sequence. Represented as a flow.

This return sequence flow is executed after the above-mentioned lending sequence flow is completed. Further, in this return sequence flow, if the user is on the bicycle 12, the mobile terminal 90 effectively receives from the second transmitter 32 without holding the mobile terminal 90 over the second transmitter 32. The reception from the second transmitter 32 is tried under the medium range.

Specifically, in step S2701, the mobile terminal 90 tries to receive from the second transmitter 32 mounted on any of the bicycles 12 under the medium range.

After that, in step S2702, the mobile terminal 90 determines whether or not the reception state in which the signal is effectively received from any of the second transmitters 32 has changed to the non-reception state in which the signal is not effectively received. If there is no such transition, the determination in step S2702 becomes NO and the process returns to step S2701, but if there is such a transition and the determination in step S2702 becomes YES, the process proceeds to step S2703.

As illustrated in FIG. 28, when the user is on the bicycle 12 and is close to the second transmitter 32, the mobile terminal 90 effectively receives from the second transmitter 32. The received signal at that time is conceptually at the high level H. Eventually, when the user gets off the bicycle 12 and separates from the second transmitter 32, the mobile terminal 90 starts to be in a state where it is not effectively received from the second transmitter 32. The received signal at that time is conceptually at the low level L.

In step S2703 described above, the mobile terminal 90 determines that "return start". Subsequently, in step S2704, the current position of the user is measured by GPS. The position is also the position of the user's current position, the position of one temporary station 300 where the user is currently (this time functions as a return station), and one vehicle parked at the temporary station 300. It is also the location of the bicycle 12.

After that, in step S2705, the mobile terminal 90 acquires the bicycle ID corresponding to the current bicycle 12 from the signal effectively received at the time of executing the step S2701. Subsequently, in step S2706, it is determined whether or not the bicycle ID matches the rental bicycle ID stored in the memory 132. If they do not match, the determination in step S2706 becomes NO and the process returns to step S2701, but if they match, the determination in step S2706 becomes YES and the process proceeds to step S2707.

In step S2707, the mobile terminal 90 displays on the screen 135 an icon "return button" that is operated in order for the user to wish to return the bicycle 12. Further, it is determined whether or not the user has operated the "return button".

If the user does not operate the "return button", the determination becomes NO and the process returns to step S2707. However, if the user operates the "return button", the determination becomes YES, and in step S2708, the user informs the user. , The management server that the return request to return the bicycle 12 this time is associated with the bicycle ID this time, the position on the map of the temporary station 300 this time (this time, the position of the return station), and the user ID. Send to 50.

In response to this, the management server 50 receives the return request in step S2751 and subsequently, in step S2752, is a list of a plurality of storage locations where the available bicycles 12 are stored and is stored in memory 162. The stored one will be updated to reflect the fact that the bicycle 12 this time was returned to the map position of the temporary station 300 this time.

After that, the management server 50 measures the current time using the clock 172 in step S2753. Subsequently, in step S2754, the current time is recognized as the actual return time. Then, in step S2755, the user is permitted to return the bicycle 12 this time.

Subsequently, in step S2756, the management server 50 calculates the time from the billing start time determined as described above to the billing end time (actual return time) for the user as the total rental time. After that, in step S2757, the current rental amount is calculated based on the calculated total rental time length and the charge rate (increase rate) according to a charge table (not shown). Subsequently, in step S2758, information such as the calculated rental amount is transmitted to the mobile terminal 90.

On the other hand, the mobile terminal 90 receives information such as the rental amount from the management server 50 in step S2709, and subsequently displays the rental amount on the screen 135 in step S2710. After that, in step S2711, the electronic payment by the user is performed.

For example, the mobile terminal 90 may display a message on the screen 135 instructing the user to manually lock the electronic lock mounted on the bicycle 12 this time in step S2710. When the user actually locks the lock, which is confirmed by the electronic lock, and the mobile terminal 90 or the management server 50 receives the lock, it may be determined that the return stage is completed at that time.

As illustrated in FIG. 28, when the user stops the bicycle 12 at an arbitrary place as described above, gets off there, and then the user separates from the bicycle 12, the mobile terminal 90 receives a signal from the second transmitter 32. Can not be received effectively. At that time, the return of the bicycle 12 from the user is permitted, and the necessary lock lock is performed to complete the return stage. In this case, strictly speaking, the rental time is added up to the actual return time, but it is actually added up to the time when the user gets off the bicycle 12.

In the present embodiment, the reception range of the second transmitter 32 is set so that the mobile terminal 90 is within the reception range of the second transmitter 32 as long as the user is riding the bicycle 12. Then, when the user separates from the bicycle 12 and the mobile terminal 90 deviates from the reception range of the second transmitter 32, thereby shifting from the reception state of the second transmitter 32 to the non-reception state, the user It is estimated that the bicycle 12 may be returned.

Instead of this, in the present invention, the reception range of the second transmitter 32 is not sufficient for the user to be on the bicycle 12, and the mobile terminal 90 is intentionally held over the second transmitter 32 to approach the second transmitter 32. Unless the mobile terminal 90 is set so as not to enter the reception range of the second transmitter 32, the user brings the mobile terminal 90 close to the second transmitter 32 by holding it over the second transmitter 32. A mode in which it is estimated that the user may return the bicycle 12 when the terminal 90 enters the reception range of the second transmitter 32 and thereby transitions from the non-reception state of the second transmitter 32 to the reception state. It may be carried out at.

<Several other variants>

In some of the embodiments described above, the user ID is used as an example of the user's identification information, whereby the behavior of the user is monitored over time.

Alternatively or additionally, using a unique device address such as the phone number, email address, MAC address of the mobile terminal 90 as another example of the user's identification information (personal authentication information). May be good.

Further, some of the above-described embodiments are improved so that the management server 50 executes the same data processing as at least a part of the data processing by the mobile terminal 90, or conversely, the data processing by the management server 50 is performed. It is possible to improve the mobile terminal 90 to perform the same data processing as at least a part of them.

Further, some of the above-described embodiments are configured to carry out a rental business in which the bicycle 12 is rented to the user for a fee and by a postpaid method. It can be improved to carry out or to carry out a rental business that is rented out to users free of charge.

Further, some of the above-described embodiments are exemplary embodiments in which the present invention is applied to a rental cycle as a rental vehicle, that is, a rental bicycle, but other mobile bodies lent to the user for a fee or free of charge. However, the present invention may be applied to those that move with the user. Such moving objects include, for example, motorcycles, automobiles (such as rental cars), engine-powered boats or jet skis, recreational or competition go-karts, shopping carts, strollers, wheelbarrows, wheelchairs or golf carts.

The "bicycle" is usually in the form of having two wheels, but is not limited to this, and for example, even in the form of having three wheels, the number of wheels is four. It may be in the form.

Further, when the rental target is furniture, an electric product, an accessory detachably attached to the electric product, or a recording medium (for example, a rental CD) in which audiovisual content is recorded and is playable by the user. Also, the present invention can be applied.

Further, the present invention can be applied even when the rental target is a room in a hotel or apartment where the user can live, an individual storage space in a coin locker, or an individual parking space in a parking lot.

As described above, some embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail with reference to the drawings, but these are examples, and are based on the knowledge of those skilled in the art, including the embodiments described in the above [Summary of the invention] column. It is possible to carry out the present invention in other forms with various modifications and improvements.

Claims (10)

A system that manages multiple vehicles that can be rented to users.
The short-range wireless communication unit mounted on each of the plurality of vehicles,
Including the management server that remotely manages the plurality of vehicles.
By operating the mobile terminal, the user selects a vehicle desired to be used from the plurality of vehicles on the mobile terminal.
The mobile terminal is capable of short-range wireless communication with the short-range wireless communication unit and is capable of long-range wireless communication with the management server.
When the management server receives a signal transmitted from the mobile terminal in response to a user's operation to select one of the vehicles, the management server reserves the above-mentioned vehicle as a reserved vehicle based on the received signal. , Save the reservation contents in the memory,
In the system, since the user approaches one of the vehicles, the mobile terminal reaches a short-range communication state in which the mobile terminal performs short-range communication with the short-range wireless communication unit mounted on the one of the vehicles. In addition, when any of the vehicles exists in the memory as the reserved vehicle, the lock device mounted on the reserved vehicle is in a locked state for prohibiting the user from using the reserved vehicle. A rental vehicle management system that transmits an unlock signal to the lock device and thereby unlocks the lock device by a remote method. A plurality of vehicle IDs unique to each of the plurality of vehicles are assigned to the plurality of vehicles.
The first aspect of claim 1, wherein it is determined whether or not any of the vehicles is the reserved vehicle by collating the vehicle ID corresponding to the one of the vehicles with the reserved contents stored in the memory. Rental vehicle management system. The mobile terminal has a positioning function for positioning the user's current position.
The location on the map of the rental station where the reserved vehicle is scheduled to be rented is saved in advance.
The rental according to claim 1, wherein it is determined whether or not any of the vehicles is the reserved vehicle by collating the current position of the user positioned by the mobile terminal with the position on the map of the rental station. Vehicle management system. The short-range wireless communication unit can transmit a signal representing a unique communication ID, and can transmit the signal.
A plurality of vehicle IDs unique to each of the plurality of vehicles and a plurality of communication IDs unique to each of the plurality of short-range wireless communication units mounted on each of the plurality of vehicles are predetermined. According to the corresponding relationship, the communication ID represented by the signal transmitted from the short-range wireless communication unit is converted into a vehicle ID, whereby the plurality of vehicles are identified as the corresponding vehicle IDs. The rental vehicle management system according to 1. According to the correspondence, the vehicle ID corresponding to the reserved vehicle is converted into a regular communication ID, and the regular communication ID and the actual communication ID represented by the signal actually received by the mobile terminal from the short-range wireless communication unit are used. The rental vehicle management system according to claim 4, wherein it is determined that any of the vehicles is the reserved vehicle when the two are in agreement with each other. The rental vehicle management system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the management server assists a user in using the mobile terminal to settle the loan price by electronic payment. The rental vehicle management system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the plurality of vehicles include a plurality of rental cars or share cars or a plurality of rental cycles or share cycles. The program for functioning as the mobile terminal according to any one of claims 1 to 7. The program for functioning as the management server according to any one of claims 1 to 7. A recording medium in which the program according to claim 8 or 9 is recorded so as to be readable by a computer.

Images