JP2022057962A - Bicycle usage system, information processing device, program, power assisted bicycle, and bicycle usage method - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a bicycle usage system, an information processing device, a program, a power assisted bicycle, and a bicycle usage method, by which cost for power charging stations and cost for power charging work are reduced.SOLUTION: A bicycle usage system 10 comprises a power assisted bicycle 30, and an information processing device 22 which bills a user who has used the power assisted bicycle for a fee or a point equivalent to the fee as a usage fee. The information processing device includes an information reception section for, prior to using the power assisted bicycle, receiving, from the user, a usage mode indicating at least one of: a generation amount of assist driving force when being assisted; and a generation amount of regenerative braking force when being regenerative. The power assisted bicycle includes a drive control section for controlling the assist driving force and the regenerative braking force correspondingly to the usage mode while being used by the user. The information processing device includes a usage fee determination section 58 for determining the usage fee in accordance with at least one of: a power remained amount of a battery before the usage; and the usage mode.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

The present invention relates to a bicycle utilization system, an information processing device, a program, an electrically assisted bicycle, and a bicycle utilization method.

Conventionally, a share cycle system using an electrically power assisted bicycle is known. The share cycle system allows the user to select and start using the electrically power assisted bicycle located in one of the plurality of cycle ports, and return the electrically power assisted bicycle to one of the plurality of cycle ports for use. To finish. As a result, the user can return the electrically power assisted bicycle to a cycle port different from the cycle port that has started to be used. The share cycle system is also called a community cycle system or an urban rental cycle system.

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2019-148928 Japanese Patent No. 6408885 Japanese Patent No. 5668036

By the way, such a share cycle system must charge an electrically assisted bicycle. For this reason, the administrator of the share cycle system must install a charging system at the cycle port. However, if a charging system is installed in all cycle ports, the cost of the charging equipment will increase. There is also a way for the operator to charge the power-assisted bicycle placed in the cycle port. However, if the worker charges all the electrically power assisted bicycles, the cost of the charging work becomes high.

The present invention has been made in view of the above, and provides a bicycle utilization system, an information processing apparatus, a program, an electrically assisted bicycle, and a bicycle utilization method that can reduce the cost of charging equipment and the cost of charging work. ..

Furthermore, the present invention is a bicycle utilization system, an information processing device, and a program that can save energy in the entire system by efficiently using the power generated by human power and reduce the use of power generated by power generation that emits CO ₂ . , Provides electrically assisted bicycles and bicycle usage methods.

In order to solve the above-mentioned problems and achieve the object, the bicycle utilization system according to the present invention has two or more wheels, and travels by adding a human-powered driving force and an assisted driving force by a motor at the time of assist. For the electrically assisted bicycle that generates regenerative power by being braked by the regenerative braking force generated by the motor at the time of regeneration, and the user who uses the electrically assisted bicycle, the fee or the point corresponding to the fee is used as the usage fee. The information processing device includes the information processing device to be billed, and the information processing device generates the assist driving force at the time of assist and the regenerative braking force at the time of regeneration prior to the use of the electrically assisted bicycle by the user. The electrically assisted bicycle has an information receiving unit that receives an information receiving unit indicating at least one of the amounts from the user, and controls the assist driving force and the regenerative braking force according to the usage mode when the electrically assisted bicycle is used by the user. The information processing apparatus further includes a usage fee determination unit that determines the usage fee according to the remaining power of the battery before use and at least one of the usage modes.

According to the present invention, the cost of the charging equipment and the cost of the charging work can be reduced.

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a bicycle utilization system according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a functional configuration for information processing of a bicycle utilization system. FIG. 3 is a sequence diagram showing a processing flow of the bicycle utilization system. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a user terminal device on which a selection image of a usage mode is displayed. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a determination flow of the assist driving force. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a flow for determining the regenerative braking force. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a flow for determining a usage fee. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of usage history. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a hardware configuration of the information processing device.

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a bicycle utilization system 10 according to an embodiment. The bicycle utilization system 10 is a system for renting an electrically assisted bicycle 30 to a user, which is called a share cycle system. The bicycle utilization system 10 manages a plurality of electrically assisted bicycles 30. Each of the plurality of electrically power assisted bicycles 30 is located in any of the plurality of cycle ports when not used by the user. The user selects and starts using the electrically power assisted bicycle 30 located at any of the cycle ports (start port, start place) among the plurality of cycle ports. Then, the user returns the bicycle to the electrically assisted bicycle 30 at any of the cycle ports (end port, end place) of the plurality of cycle ports to end the use.

The bicycle utilization system 10 includes an information processing device 22, a user terminal device 24, and an electrically assisted bicycle 30.

The information processing device 22 is a computer or the like. The information processing device 22 may be a server on a communication network, or may be a cloud or the like in which a plurality of servers on the communication network operate in cooperation with each other. The communication network is, for example, the Internet. The information processing device 22 manages one or a plurality of electrically assisted bicycles 30 placed in each of the plurality of cycle ports. Further, the information processing device 22 manages the electrically assisted bicycle 30 used by the user. When the user uses the electrically power assisted bicycle 30, the information processing apparatus 22 determines as a usage fee a fee or a point corresponding to the fee associated with the use of the electrically power assisted bicycle 30. Then, the information processing device 22 charges the user the determined usage fee to the user who uses the electrically assisted bicycle 30.

The user terminal device 24 is a computer owned by the user. The user terminal device 24 may be a smartphone or a tablet terminal. Further, the user terminal device 24 may be a wearable device or a mobile phone. The user installs, for example, an application program provided by the administrator of the bicycle use system 10 on the user terminal device 24 owned by the user. The user can use the electrically power assisted bicycle 30 by operating the user terminal device 24 that has started this application program.

The user terminal device 24 can access the information processing device 22 via the communication network. The user terminal device 24 has, for example, an LTE (Long Term Evolution) communication circuit or another wireless communication circuit, and is connected to a communication network by wireless communication. The user terminal device 24 accesses the information processing device 22 according to the user's operation to register the user for using the bicycle use system 10, the procedure for starting the use of the electrically power assisted bicycle 30, and the use of the electrically power assisted bicycle 30. Perform the termination procedure. The user terminal device 24 performs payment processing for the request for the usage fee from the information processing device 22 according to the user's operation.

Further, the user terminal device 24 wirelessly connects to the bicycle terminal device 32 provided in the electrically power assisted bicycle 30 by short-range wireless communication. As a result, the user terminal device 24 can exchange information with the bicycle terminal device 32 by wireless communication. The short-range wireless communication is, for example, BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy®) communication. The short-range wireless communication may be a method other than the BLE communication.

The electrically power assisted bicycle 30 has two or more wheels. The electrically assisted bicycle 30 may be a two-wheeled vehicle or a three-wheeled vehicle. The electrically assisted bicycle 30 includes a bicycle terminal device 32 which is a computer. The bicycle terminal device 32 wirelessly connects to the user terminal device 24 by short-range wireless communication. As a result, the bicycle terminal device 32 can exchange information with the user terminal device 24 by wireless communication. Further, when the bicycle terminal device 32 is connected to the user terminal device 24 by short-range wireless communication, the bicycle terminal device 32 can also exchange information with the information processing device 22 via the user terminal device 24. The bicycle terminal device 32 may have a wireless communication circuit such as an LTE communication circuit for connecting to a communication network. As a result, the bicycle terminal device 32 can exchange information with the information processing device 22 via the communication network.

The electrically assisted bicycle 30 has an assist function. That is, the electrically assisted bicycle 30 travels by adding the human-powered driving force from the pedal and the assisted driving force by the motor operated by the electric power of the battery to the wheels at the time of assist. Further, the electrically assisted bicycle 30 has a power regeneration function. That is, the electrically assisted bicycle 30 is braked by the regenerative braking force generated by the motor at the time of regeneration. Further, the electrically assisted bicycle 30 generates regenerative power by the motor at the time of regeneration, and charges the generated regenerative power to the battery.

Here, the electrically assisted bicycle 30 is set with a usage mode indicating at least one of the generated amount of the assist driving force and the generated amount of the regenerative braking force prior to the use by the user. The bicycle terminal device 32 controls the assist driving force and the regenerative braking force according to the set usage mode when the user uses the electrically assisted bicycle 30.

The bicycle terminal device 32 controls, for example, the strength of the assist driving force as the amount of the assist driving force generated. More specifically, the bicycle terminal device 32 controls the driving power supplied to the motor that generates the assist driving force. In this case, for example, when the bicycle terminal device 32 is set to a mode in which the amount of assist driving force generated is large, the bicycle terminal device 32 exerts a stronger assist driving force on the wheels than when the mode is set to a mode in which the amount of assist driving force generated is small. Add.

Further, the bicycle terminal device 32 may control a scene in which the assist driving force is generated as the amount of the assist driving force generated in addition to the strength of the assist driving force or instead of the strength of the assist driving force. For example, when the bicycle terminal device 32 is set to a mode in which the amount of assist driving force generated is large, the bicycle terminal device 32 controls to apply the assist driving force on an uphill road and to apply the assist driving force even on a flat road. On the other hand, when the bicycle terminal device 32 is set to a mode in which the amount of assist driving force generated is small, the bicycle terminal device 32 controls so that the assist driving force is applied on an uphill but not on a flat road. .. Further, when the bicycle terminal device 32 is set to a mode in which the amount of assist driving force generated is small, the assist driving force is not applied on an uphill with a predetermined gradient or less and a flat road, and the assist driving force is not applied on an uphill steeper than the predetermined gradient. It may be controlled to apply an assist driving force.

By controlling the assist driving force according to the usage mode in this way, when the electrically assisted bicycle 30 is set to the mode in which the amount of assist driving force is generated is large, the electric assist bicycle 30 is set to the mode in which the amount of assist driving force is generated is small. It is possible to drive with a smaller human-powered driving force than in the case of the case. That is, by controlling the assist driving force according to the usage mode in this way, when the electrically assisted bicycle 30 is set to the mode in which the generated amount of the assist driving force is small, the mode in which the generated amount of the assist driving force is large is set. It is possible to reduce the power consumption from the battery as compared with the case where it is set.

Further, the bicycle terminal device 32 controls, for example, the strength of the regenerative driving force as the amount of generation of the regenerative braking force. More specifically, the bicycle terminal device 32 controls the magnitude of the regenerative power generated by the motor. For example, the bicycle terminal device 32 determines the strength of the regenerative driving force when the mode is set to generate a large amount of regenerative braking force than when the mode is set to generate a small amount of regenerative braking force. The power to be regenerated from the electrically power assisted bicycle 30 traveling on the same slope downhill is increased.

Further, the bicycle terminal device 32 may control a scene in which the regenerative braking force is generated as the amount of the regenerative braking force generated in addition to the strength of the regenerative braking force or instead of the strength of the regenerative braking force. For example, when the bicycle terminal device 32 is set to a mode in which the amount of regenerative braking force generated is small, the bicycle terminal device 32 controls so that the regenerative braking force is applied on a downhill and the regenerative braking force is not applied on a flat road. On the other hand, when the bicycle terminal device 32 is set to a mode in which the amount of regenerative braking force generated is large, the regenerative braking force is applied on a downhill slope and the regenerative braking force is not applied to the pedal even on a flat road. Control to apply power.

By controlling the regenerative braking force according to the usage mode in this way, when the electrically assisted bicycle 30 is set to the mode in which the amount of regenerative braking force generated is large, the electric assisted bicycle 30 is set to the mode in which the amount of regenerative braking force generated is small. The amount of charge to the battery can be increased as compared with the case where the battery is charged.

FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a functional configuration for information processing of the bicycle utilization system 10. The information processing device 22 has an information receiving unit 52, a usage management unit 54, a usage fee determination unit 58, and a billing processing unit 60.

The information receiving unit 52 receives from the user a request for starting the use of the electrically power assisted bicycle 30 and a request for ending the use of the electrically power assisted bicycle 30. Further, the information receiving unit 52 receives from the user a usage mode indicating at least one of the generated amount of the assist driving force and the generated amount of the regenerative braking force. Further, the information receiving unit 52 receives from the electrically assisted bicycle 30 the remaining power of the battery of the electrically assisted bicycle 30 before use and the remaining power of the battery of the electrically assisted bicycle 30 after use.

When the user uses the electrically power assisted bicycle 30, the usage management unit 54 manages and stores information related to the usage. For example, the usage management unit 54 has a usage start time, a usage end time, a remaining power of the battery of the electrically power assisted bicycle 30 at the start of use, a remaining power of the battery of the electrically power assisted bicycle 30 at the end of use, and a usage mode. Remember.

The usage fee determination unit 58 determines the usage fee according to the remaining power of the battery before use and at least one of the usage modes. In the present embodiment, the usage fee determination unit 58 determines the difference or ratio between the remaining power of the battery before use and the remaining power of the battery after use after the user uses the electrically power assisted bicycle 30. The usage fee is determined according to the usage mode. For example, the usage fee determination unit 58 determines the difference or ratio between the remaining power of the battery before use and the remaining power of the battery after use, and the usage mode after the user uses the electrically power assisted bicycle 30. Depending on the situation, the usage fee may be determined by adjusting a predetermined value up or down. The usage fee may be, for example, a fee expressed in currency. Further, the usage fee may be a point corresponding to the fee instead of the currency. Points are managed by the point issuer. The user can receive services according to points and acquire products according to points. The points may be virtual currency.

The billing processing unit 60 processes the user who uses the electrically power assisted bicycle 30 to charge the determined usage fee. For example, the billing processing unit 60 transmits information for billing the usage fee to the user terminal device 24.

The user terminal device 24 has a terminal communication control unit 62 and an input / output control unit 64. The user terminal device 24 functions as a terminal communication control unit 62 and an input / output control unit 64 by executing a predetermined application program.

The terminal communication control unit 62 accesses the information processing device 22 via the communication network and controls the exchange of information with the information processing device 22. Further, the terminal communication control unit 62 controls the exchange of information with the bicycle terminal device 32 by short-range communication. Further, the terminal communication control unit 62 mediates the exchange of information between the information processing device 22 and the bicycle terminal device 32.

The input / output control unit 64 receives the information input by the user. Further, the input / output control unit 64 outputs information to the user. For example, the input / output control unit 64 displays information to the user.

The bicycle terminal device 32 includes a utilization control unit 72, a drive control unit 74, a mode setting unit 76, and a charge management unit 78.

The usage control unit 72 controls the user regarding the use of the electrically power assisted bicycle 30. For example, when an authorized user uses the electrically power assisted bicycle 30, the usage control unit 72 unlocks the electrically power assisted bicycle 30 and enables the assist function, the regeneration function, and the like.

The drive control unit 74 includes an assist control unit 82 and a regeneration control unit 84. The assist control unit 82 controls an assist function that applies a human-powered driving force from the pedal and an assist driving force by a motor operated by a battery power to the wheels at the time of assist. The regeneration control unit 84 controls the regeneration function of charging the battery with the regeneration power at the time of regeneration.

The mode setting unit 76 receives from the information processing device 22 the usage mode received by the information receiving unit 52 of the information processing device 22 prior to the use of the electrically power assisted bicycle 30. Then, the mode setting unit 76 sets the received usage mode in the drive control unit 74 when the electrically assisted bicycle 30 is used.

The charge management unit 78 detects the remaining power of the battery before the user uses the electrically power assisted bicycle 30. Further, the charge management unit 78 detects the remaining power of the battery after the user uses the electrically power assisted bicycle 30. The charge management unit 78 detects, for example, SOC (State Of Charge) as the remaining power of the battery. The charge management unit 78 may detect, for example, the voltage value of the battery as the remaining power of the battery, or may detect another parameter representing the remaining amount of the battery.

Here, the information receiving unit 52 receives the usage mode from the user prior to the user's use of the electrically power assisted bicycle 30. The drive control unit 74 controls the generation amount of the cyst driving force and the generation amount of the regenerative braking force according to the usage mode accepted by the information receiving unit 52 when the user uses the electrically assisted bicycle 30. Then, after the user uses the electrically power assisted bicycle 30, the usage fee determination unit 58 determines the remaining amount difference or ratio between the remaining power of the battery before use and the remaining power of the battery after use, and the usage mode. The usage fee will be decided accordingly. As a result, the bicycle utilization system 10 gives the user a merit of the usage fee by setting the usage mode so as to reduce the power consumption of the battery or increase the remaining power of the battery, and the cost of the charging facility and the cost of the charging facility and The cost of charging work can be reduced.

For example, the information receiving unit 52 accepts the setting of the first mode or the second mode as the usage mode prior to the user's use of the electrically power assisted bicycle 30. When the user uses the electrically power assisted bicycle 30, the drive control unit 74 controls the amount of regenerative braking force to be generated to be the first regenerative amount when the first mode is set, and is set to the second mode. If this is the case, the amount of regenerative braking force generated is controlled to be a second regeneration amount larger than the first regeneration amount. Then, after the user has used the electrically power assisted bicycle 30, the usage fee determination unit 58 determines the usage fee to the first value when the first mode is set, and sets the usage fee to the second mode. If the remaining amount difference is less than or equal to a predetermined value, the second value is determined to be lower than the first value. As a result, the electrically assisted bicycle 30 can charge the battery more regenerative power when it is set to the second mode than when it is set to the first mode. Therefore, the bicycle utilization system 10 can give the user a merit of the usage fee and reduce the power consumption of the battery by setting the usage mode to increase the generation force of the regenerative braking force.

Further, for example, when the usage fee determination unit 58 is set to the second mode and the remaining power of the battery after use is larger than the remaining power of the battery before use, the second value is minus. It may be determined to the value of. Here, a negative value usage fee means that the user is refunded the fee or points, rather than having the user pay the fee or points. As a result, when the bicycle utilization system 10 is set to the utilization mode in which the force for generating the regenerative braking force is increased, the user can be given a great advantage of the usage fee and the remaining power of the battery can be increased.

Further, for example, the drive control unit 74 controls so that the generated amount of the assist driving force is set to the first assist amount when the first mode is set, and the assist driving force is set to the second mode. The generated amount may be controlled to be a second assist amount smaller than the first assist amount. As a result, the electric assist bicycle 30 can consume less battery power when it is set to the second mode than when it is set to the first mode. Therefore, when the bicycle utilization system 10 is set to the utilization mode in which the generated force of the assist driving force is reduced, the user can be given the merit of the usage fee and the consumption of the battery power can be reduced.

Further, for example, when the usage fee determination unit 58 is set to the second mode, the second value may be determined to be smaller as the remaining amount difference is smaller. As a result, the bicycle utilization system 10 gradually sets the magnitude of the merit of the usage fee by increasing the amount of regenerative braking force generated, and selects the usage mode in which the amount of regenerative braking force generated is large for the user. It can be made easier.

Further, for example, the information receiving unit 52 may accept the setting of the high assist first mode or the low assist first mode as the first mode. The drive control unit 74 controls the generated amount of the assist driving force to be the high assist amount when the high assist first mode is set, and the assist driving force is generated when the low assist first mode is set. The amount is controlled so as to be a low assist amount smaller than a high assist amount. Then, the usage fee determination unit 58 determines the usage fee to the first value when it is set to the high assist first mode, and to the third value lower than the first value when it is set to the low assist first mode. decide. As a result, the bicycle utilization system 10 gradually sets the magnitude of the merit of the usage fee by reducing the amount of assist driving force generated, and makes it easy to select the usage mode in which the amount of assist driving force generated is small. Can be done.

FIG. 3 is a sequence diagram showing a processing flow of the bicycle utilization system 10. When the user uses the electrically assisted bicycle 30, the bicycle utilization system 10 executes the process according to the flow shown in FIG. 3, for example.

When the user starts using the electrically power assisted bicycle 30, first, in S11, the user terminal device 24 requests a connection to any of the electrically power assisted bicycles 30 placed in the cycle port according to the user's operation. To send. Subsequently, in S12, the electrically power assisted bicycle 30 returns a vehicle ID or the like that identifies the electrically power assisted bicycle 30 to the user terminal device 24.

Subsequently, in S13, the user terminal device 24 transmits a start request including the vehicle ID and the user ID that identifies the user to the information processing device 22. Subsequently, in S14, when the user ID is valid and the electrically assisted bicycle 30 identified by the vehicle ID is available, the information processing device 22 transmits the permission information to the user terminal device 24.

Subsequently, in S15, the user terminal device 24 transmits selection information indicating the usage mode selected by the user to the information processing device 22. Subsequently, in S16, the information processing apparatus 22 stores the received usage mode and usage start time. Then, the information processing device 22 transmits the usage mode to the user terminal device 24 in order to set the usage mode to the electrically assisted bicycle 30.

Subsequently, in S17, the user terminal device 24 transmits the permission information and the usage mode to the electrically assisted bicycle 30. The electrically assisted bicycle 30 is unlocked or the like in response to the receipt of the permission information so that the user can use the electrically assisted bicycle 30. Further, in S18, the electrically assisted bicycle 30 sets the received usage mode. Thereby, the electrically assisted bicycle 30 can control the assist driving force and the regenerative braking force according to the usage mode. Subsequently, in S19, the electrically power assisted bicycle 30 detects the remaining power of the battery before use. For example, the electrically power assisted bicycle 30 detects the ratio from the fully charged state as the remaining electric power of the battery. After that, the user can use the electrically assisted bicycle 30.

When the user ends the use of the electrically power assisted bicycle 30, in S20, the user terminal device 24 transmits an end request including the user ID to the information processing device 22 in response to the user's operation. Subsequently, in S21, the information processing device 22 transmits a confirmation request to the user terminal device 24 in order to acquire the usage result of the electrically power assisted bicycle 30.

Subsequently, in S22, the user terminal device 24 transmits a confirmation request to the electrically power assisted bicycle 30. Subsequently, in S23, the electrically power assisted bicycle 30 detects the remaining power of the battery at the end of use. Subsequently, in S24, the electrically power assisted bicycle 30 transmits the usage result including the remaining power of the battery at the start of use and the remaining power of the battery at the end of use to the user terminal device 24. The electrically power assisted bicycle 30 detects, for example, whether or not it is normally placed in the cycle port, and whether or not it has been used normally without any trouble, and the detection results thereof. May be included in the usage result.

Subsequently, in S25, the user terminal device 24 transmits the usage result received from the electrically power assisted bicycle 30 to the information processing device 22. Subsequently, in S26, when the information processing apparatus 22 verifies the usage result and determines that the use of the electrically power assisted bicycle 30 is normally completed, the remaining power of the battery before use and the battery after use are determined. The usage fee is determined according to the difference between the remaining amount of power and the remaining amount of power and the usage mode.

Subsequently, in S27, the information processing apparatus 22 executes a billing process for the usage fee to the user. For example, the information processing device 22 instructs the user terminal device 24 to process the billing of the usage fee, and causes the user to execute the payment process of the usage fee by the user terminal device 24. The usage fee may be a negative value. If the usage fee is a negative value, the user will be refunded or receive points. Then, when the payment process is completed, in S28, the user terminal device 24 gives a disconnection instruction to the electrically power assisted bicycle 30. When the electrically assisted bicycle 30 receives the disconnection instruction, it locks or the like so that it cannot be used by the user thereafter.

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a user terminal device 24 on which a selection image of a usage mode is displayed. For example, the user terminal device 24 displays an image as shown in FIG. 4 and allows the user to select a usage mode.

In the example of FIG. 4, the user terminal device 24 causes the user terminal device 24 to select any of the normal high assist mode, the normal low assist mode, and the refund mode as the usage mode.

The normal high assist mode and the normal low assist mode are examples of the first mode. More specifically, the normal high assist mode is an example of the high assist first mode. Further, the normal low assist mode is an example of the low assist first mode. The refund mode is an example of the second mode.

When set to the normal high assist mode, the electrically assisted bicycle 30 has a normal assist driving force generation amount (first assist amount) and a normal regenerative braking force generation amount (first regenerative amount). Controls assist driving force and regenerative braking force. Further, when the normal high assist mode is set, the usage fee is the normal fee (first value). The normal charge may be, for example, a predetermined fixed charge, may differ depending on the type of the electrically power assisted bicycle 30, may differ depending on the usage time of the user, and the use may be started. It may be different depending on the cycle port and the cycle port to be terminated. In addition, the normal charge may vary depending on the day and time of use, the number of users of the electrically power assisted bicycle 30, the weather, and the like.

When the normally low assist mode is set, the electrically assisted bicycle 30 is set to generate an assist driving force (low assist amount) smaller than the normal assist driving force generation amount (high assist amount or first assist amount). In addition, the assist driving force is controlled. Further, when the normal low assist mode is set, the usage fee is a fee (second value) lower than the normal fee (first value). For example, when the normal low assist mode is set, the usage fee is ½ of the normal fee. The usage fee when the normal low assist mode is set is not limited to 1/2 if it is cheaper than the normal fee.

When the refund mode is set, the electrically assisted bicycle 30 has an assist driving force so as to generate an assist driving force (second assist amount) smaller than the normal assist driving force generation amount (first assist amount). To control. For example, when the refund mode is set, the electrically assisted bicycle 30 may substantially stop the generation of the assist driving force.

When set to the refund mode, the electrically power assisted bicycle 30 has a regenerative system so as to generate a stronger regenerative braking force (second regenerative amount) than the normal regenerative braking force generated (first regenerative amount). Control the power. For example, when the refund mode is set, the electrically assisted bicycle 30 may control the regenerative braking force so as to forcibly regenerate the electric power when the pedal is not pedaled.

If the refund mode is set and the difference between the remaining battery power before use and the remaining battery power after use is less than or equal to a predetermined value, the usage fee will be the normal charge. It is a lower charge (second value) than (first value). However, if the refund mode is set and the remaining amount difference is larger than the predetermined value, that is, if the battery uses more power than the predetermined value, the usage fee will be charged. It is a normal charge (first value).

In addition, when the refund mode is set and the remaining power of the battery after use is larger than the remaining power of the battery before use, the usage fee (second value) is a negative value. May be good. That is, when the refund mode is set and the remaining power of the battery after use is larger than the remaining power of the battery before use, the information processing apparatus 22 refunds or adds points to the user. You may. Further, when the refund mode is set and the remaining amount difference is equal to or less than a predetermined value, the usage fee (second value) may be smaller as the remaining amount difference is smaller. ..

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a determination flow of the assist driving force. When any of the normal high assist mode, the normal low assist mode, and the refund mode is selected as the usage mode, the electrically assisted bicycle 30 has a flow as shown in FIG. 5, for example, at the timing of generating the assist driving force. Determine the assist driving force.

First, in S41, the drive control unit 74 calculates the normal assist driving force. The drive control unit 74 calculates, for example, the normal assist drive force normally applied to the wheels based on the torque applied to the pedals.

Subsequently, in S42, the drive control unit 74 determines whether or not the utilization mode is the normal high assist mode. When the utilization mode is the normal high assist mode (Yes in S42), in S43, the drive control unit 74 sets the assist drive force to the normal assist drive force and starts the assist control.

When the utilization mode is not the normal high assist mode (No in S42), in S44, the drive control unit 74 determines whether or not the utilization mode is the normal low assist mode. When the utilization mode is the normal low assist mode (Yes in S44), in S45, the drive control unit 74 sets the assist drive force to ½ of the normal assist drive force and starts the assist control.

When the usage mode is not normally the low assist mode (No in S44), that is, when the usage mode is the refund mode, in S46, the drive control unit 74 sets the assist driving force to 0 and starts the assist control. do.

By performing the above processing, when the normal high assist mode is set, the electrically assisted bicycle 30 has an assist driving force so as to generate a normal assist driving force (first assist amount and high assist amount). Can be controlled. Further, when the normal low assist mode is set, the electrically assisted bicycle 30 has an assist driving force generation amount (low assist amount) smaller than the normal assist driving force generation amount (high assist amount or first assist amount). As such, the assist driving force can be controlled. Further, when the refund mode is set, the electrically assisted bicycle 30 assists so as to generate an assist driving force (second assist amount) smaller than the normal assist driving force generation amount (first assist amount). The driving force can be controlled. For example, when the refund mode is set, the electrically assisted bicycle 30 can almost stop the generation of the assist driving force.

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a flow for determining the regenerative braking force. When any of the normal high assist mode, the normal low assist mode, and the refund mode is selected as the usage mode, the electrically assisted bicycle 30 has a flow as shown in FIG. 6, for example, at the timing of generating the regenerative braking force. Determine the regenerative braking force.

First, in S51, the drive control unit 74 calculates the normal regenerative braking force. The drive control unit 74 calculates the normal regenerative braking force normally applied to the wheels based on, for example, the torque applied to the pedals and the rotational speed of the wheels.

Subsequently, in S52, the drive control unit 74 determines whether or not the utilization mode is the normal high assist mode. When the utilization mode is the normal high assist mode (Yes in S52), in S53, the drive control unit 74 sets the regenerative braking force to the normal regenerative braking force and starts the regenerative control.

When the utilization mode is not the normal high assist mode (No in S52), in S54, the drive control unit 74 determines whether or not the utilization mode is the normal low assist mode. When the utilization mode is the normal low assist mode (Yes in S54), in S55, the drive control unit 74 sets the regenerative braking force to the normal regenerative braking force and starts the regenerative control.

When the usage mode is not the normal low assist mode (No in S54), that is, when the usage mode is the refund mode, in S56, the drive control unit 74 sets the regenerative braking force to N times the normal regenerative braking force. Then, the regeneration control is started. Note that N is a value larger than 1.

By performing the above processing, when the normal high assist mode and the normal low assist mode are set, the electrically assisted bicycle 30 has a regenerative system so as to generate a normal regenerative braking force (first regenerative amount). Control the power. Further, when the refund mode is set, the electrically assisted bicycle 30 has a strong regenerative braking force generation amount (second regenerative amount) larger than the normal regenerative braking force generation amount (first regenerative amount). Controls regenerative braking force. For example, when the refund mode is set, the electrically assisted bicycle 30 can control the regenerative braking force so as to forcibly regenerate the electric power when the pedal is not pedaled.

FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a flow for determining a usage fee. When the user has finished using the electrically power assisted bicycle 30, the information processing device 22 determines the usage fee according to the flow shown in FIG. 8, for example.

First, in S61, the usage fee determination unit 58 calculates a normal fee. The normal charge may be, for example, a fixed charge, or may vary depending on the type of the electrically power assisted bicycle 30, the usage time, and the like.

Subsequently, in S62, the usage fee determination unit 58 determines whether or not the usage mode is usually the high assist mode. When the usage mode is the normal high assist mode (Yes in S62), in S63, the usage fee determination unit 58 determines the usage fee as the normal fee.

When the usage mode is not the normal high assist mode (No in S62), in S64, the usage fee determination unit 58 determines whether or not the usage mode is the normal low assist mode. When the usage mode is the normal low assist mode (Yes in S64), in S65, the usage fee determination unit 58 determines the usage fee to be 1/2 of the normal fee. The usage fee when the normal low assist mode is set is not limited to 1/2 if it is cheaper than the normal fee.

When the usage mode is not normally the low assist mode (No in S64), that is, when the usage mode is the refund mode, in S66, the usage fee determination unit 58 determines the remaining power of the battery before use and the battery after use. Calculate the difference between the remaining power and the remaining power.

Subsequently, in S67, the usage fee determination unit 58 determines whether or not the remaining amount difference is -5% or less, that is, whether or not the power from the battery is consumed by 5% or more. In addition, instead of -5%, the usage fee determination unit 58 may determine whether or not it is equal to or less than another predetermined value if it is a negative value. When the remaining amount difference is −5% or less (Yes in S67), in S68, the usage fee determination unit 58 determines the usage fee as a normal fee.

When the remaining amount difference is larger than -5% (No in S67), in S69, the usage fee determination unit 58 determines whether or not the remaining amount difference is 0% or less, that is, whether or not the battery power is consumed. To judge. When the remaining amount difference is 0% or less (Yes in S69), in S70, the usage fee determination unit 58 determines the usage fee to be 1/2 of the normal fee.

When the remaining amount difference is larger than 0% (No in S69), in S71, the usage fee determination unit 58 determines whether or not the remaining amount difference is greater than 0% and + 5% or less, that is, the remaining power of the battery is It is determined whether or not the increase is greater than 0% and increases in the range of 5% or less. When the remaining amount difference is larger than 0% and + 5% or less (Yes in S71), in S72, the usage fee determination unit 58 determines the usage fee as a value obtained by multiplying 1/2 of the normal fee by a minus. That is, the usage fee determination unit 58 determines the usage fee to a value at which 1/2 of the normal fee is refunded to the user.

When the remaining amount difference is larger than + 5% (No in S71), in S73, the usage fee determination unit 58 determines the usage fee as a value obtained by multiplying the normal fee by a minus. That is, the usage fee determination unit 58 determines the usage fee to a value at which the normal fee is refunded to the user.

By performing the above processing, the information processing apparatus 22 determines the usage fee as the normal fee (first value) when the normal high assist mode is set, and the usage fee when the normal low assist mode is set. Can be determined to be a lower charge (third value) than the normal charge (first value). Further, when the information processing device 22 is set to the refund mode and the remaining amount difference is not more than a predetermined value (for example, -5%), the usage fee is charged from the normal charge (first value). It is possible to determine a low charge (second value). Further, when the information processing device 22 is set to the refund mode and the remaining power of the battery after use is larger than the remaining power of the battery before use, the usage fee (second value) is charged. It can be determined to be a negative value. Further, when the information processing apparatus 22 is set to the refund mode, the smaller the remaining amount difference, the smaller the usage fee (second value) can be determined.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of usage history. The information processing device 22 manages the usage history each time the user uses the electrically power assisted bicycle 30. For example, each time the user uses the electrically power assisted bicycle 30, the information processing device 22 has a date and time when the user starts using the bicycle, a remaining amount of battery power at the start of use, a mode of use set by the user, a date and time when the user ends the use, and when the user ends the use. Acquires and stores the remaining power of the battery in. Then, each time the user uses the electrically power assisted bicycle 30, the information processing device 22 determines the usage fee, processes the billing of the determined usage fee, and stores the usage fee.

For example, in the case of ID1 in FIG. 8, the usage mode is usually a high assist mode. Therefore, the usage fee is a normal fee (200 yen).

Further, in the case of the example of ID 2 of FIG. 8, the usage mode is usually a low assist mode. Therefore, the usage fee is half the normal fee (100 yen).

For example, in the case of ID3 in FIG. 8, the usage mode is the refund mode, and the remaining power amount is increased by 4%. Therefore, the usage fee is halved of the normal fee multiplied by a minus (-100 yen). Therefore, in this case, the information processing apparatus 22 refunds -100 yen to the user.

FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a hardware configuration of the information processing apparatus 22. The user terminal device 24 and the bicycle terminal device 32 also have the same configuration.

As an example, the information processing apparatus 22 is realized by a hardware configuration similar to that of a general computer. The information processing device 22 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 202, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 204, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 206, a storage device 208, and a network interface device 210. Each part is connected by a bus.

The CPU 202 executes various processes in cooperation with various programs stored in advance in the ROM 204 or the storage device 208 with a predetermined area of the RAM 206 as a work area, and comprehensively controls the operation of each part constituting the information processing device 22. .. Further, the CPU 202 operates the wireless communication device 212, the network interface device 210, and the like in cooperation with the program stored in the ROM 204 or the storage device 208 in advance.

The ROM 204 stores the program used for controlling the information processing apparatus 22 and various setting information in a non-rewritable manner. RAM 206 is a volatile storage medium such as SDRAM (Synchronous Dynamic Random Access Memory). The RAM 206 functions as a work area of the CPU 202.

The storage device 208 is a rewritable recording device such as a semiconductor storage medium such as a flash memory or a magnetically or optically recordable storage medium. The storage device 208 stores a program used for controlling the information processing device 22.

The network interface device 210 transmits / receives information to / from another device via a communication network such as the Internet. In addition to such a configuration, the user terminal device 24 further includes a wireless communication device that connects to a communication network by LTE or the like, and a short-range wireless communication device that performs short-range wireless communication such as BLE communication. Further, in addition to such a configuration, the bicycle terminal device 32 further includes a short-range wireless communication device for short-range wireless communication such as BLE communication.

The program executed by the information processing apparatus 22 is stored on a computer connected to a network such as the Internet, and is provided by downloading the program via the network. Further, the program executed by the information processing apparatus 22 may be provided by incorporating it into a portable storage medium or the like in advance.

The program executed by the information processing apparatus 22 has a module configuration including an information reception module, a usage management module, a usage fee determination module, and a billing processing module. The CPU 202 reads such a program from a storage medium or the like, and loads each of the above modules into the RAM 206. Then, by executing such a program, the CPU 202 functions as an information receiving unit 52, a usage management unit 54, a usage fee determination unit 58, and a billing processing unit 60. The information receiving unit 52, the usage management unit 54, the usage fee determination unit 58, and a part or all of the billing processing unit 60 may be configured by hardware.

Further, the program executed by the bicycle terminal device 32 has a module configuration including a utilization control module, a drive control module, a mode setting module, and a charge management module. The CPU 202 reads such a program from a storage medium or the like, and loads each of the above modules into the RAM 206. Then, by executing such a program, the CPU 202 functions as a utilization control unit 72, a drive control unit 74, a mode setting unit 76, and a charge management unit 78. A part or all of the utilization control unit 72, the drive control unit 74, the mode setting unit 76, and the charge management unit 78 may be configured by hardware.

The bicycle utilization system 10 as described above selects a usage mode that reduces the power consumption of the battery of the electrically power assisted bicycle 30 or increases the remaining battery level, and the assist driving force is selected according to the selected usage mode. Controls the amount of power generated and the amount of regenerated power generated. Then, the bicycle utilization system 10 selects a usage mode in which the battery power consumption is low, the battery power consumption is low, or the remaining battery level is increased for the user of the electrically assisted bicycle 30. If you do, the usage fee will be cheaper than usual, or you will get a refund. As a result, the bicycle utilization system 10 can reduce the consumption of the battery of the electrically power assisted bicycle 30 and reduce the cost of the charging equipment and the cost of the charging work.

Further, the bicycle utilization system 10 can save energy in the entire system by efficiently utilizing the electric power generated by human power, and can reduce the use of the electric power generated by the power generation that emits CO ₂ .

Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. The embodiments can be modified in various ways.

10 Bicycle utilization system 22 Information processing device 24 User terminal device 30 Electric assist bicycle 32 Bicycle terminal device 52 Information reception unit 54 Usage management unit 58 Usage fee determination unit 60 Billing processing unit 62 Terminal communication control unit 64 Input / output control unit 72 Usage control Unit 74 Drive control unit 76 Mode setting unit 78 Charge management unit 82 Assist control unit 84 Regeneration control unit

Claims (13)

An electric motor that has two or more wheels, travels by adding human-powered driving force and assisted driving force by a motor during assist, and is braked by the regenerative braking force generated by the motor during regeneration to generate regenerative power. Assisted bicycle and
An information processing device that charges a fee or points corresponding to the fee as a usage fee to the user who uses the electrically power assisted bicycle.
Equipped with
Prior to the use of the electrically assisted bicycle by the user, the information processing apparatus has a use mode indicating at least one of the amount of the assist driving force generated at the time of the assist and the amount of the regenerative braking force generated at the time of regeneration. It has an information reception unit that accepts information from the user.
The electrically assisted bicycle has a drive control unit that controls the assist driving force and the regenerative braking force according to the usage mode when used by the user.
The information processing device is a bicycle utilization system further including a usage fee determination unit that determines the usage fee according to the remaining power of the battery before use and at least one of the usage modes. At the time of the assist, the motor is operated by the electric power of the battery, and the motor is operated by the electric power of the battery.
The bicycle utilization system according to claim 1, wherein the battery is charged with the regenerative power at the time of regeneration. After the user uses the electrically power assisted bicycle, the usage fee determination unit determines the remaining amount difference or ratio between the remaining power of the battery before use and the remaining power of the battery after use, and the usage mode. The bicycle use system according to claim 1 or 2, which determines the usage fee according to the above. After the user uses the electrically power assisted bicycle, the usage fee determination unit determines the remaining amount difference or ratio between the remaining power of the battery before use and the remaining power of the battery after use, and the usage mode. The bicycle usage system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein a preset value is adjusted up and down to determine the usage fee. The information receiving unit receives the setting of the first mode or the second mode as the usage mode, and receives the setting.
The drive control unit controls the generated amount of the regenerative braking force to be the first regenerative amount when the first mode is set, and the regenerative braking force of the regenerative braking force when the second mode is set. Control the generated amount to be the second regeneration amount,
When the usage fee determination unit is set to the first mode, the usage fee is determined to be the first value, and when the second mode is set, the remaining amount difference or the ratio is predetermined. The bicycle utilization system according to claim 3 or 4, wherein when the value is equal to or less than the specified value, the second value is determined to be lower than the first value. When the usage fee determination unit is set to the second mode and the remaining power of the battery after use is larger than the remaining power of the battery before use, the second value is minus. The bicycle use system according to claim 5, which is determined to be the value of. When the drive control unit is set to the first mode, the drive control unit controls the generated amount of the assist drive force to be the first assist amount, and when the second mode is set, the assist drive force of the assist drive force is generated. The bicycle utilization system according to claim 5, wherein the generated amount is controlled to be the second assist amount. The bicycle use according to any one of claims 5 to 7, wherein the usage fee determination unit determines the second value to a smaller value as the remaining amount difference is smaller when the second mode is set. system. The information receiving unit accepts the setting of the high assist first mode or the low assist first mode as the first mode.
The drive control unit controls the generated amount of the assist driving force to be a high assist amount when the high assist first mode is set, and the assist when the low assist first mode is set. The amount of driving force generated is controlled to be a low assist amount,
When the high assist first mode is set, the usage fee determination unit determines the usage fee to the first value, and when the low assist first mode is set, the usage fee determination unit is lower than the first value. The bicycle use system according to any one of claims 5 to 8, which is determined to be a ternary value. An information processing device provided in the bicycle utilization system according to any one of claims 1 to 9. The program for making a computer function as the information processing apparatus according to claim 10. An electrically assisted bicycle provided in the bicycle utilization system according to any one of claims 1 to 9. It is a bicycle usage method executed in the bicycle usage system.
The bicycle utilization system is
An electric motor that has two or more wheels, travels by adding human-powered driving force and assisted driving force by a motor during assist, and is braked by the regenerative braking force generated by the motor during regeneration to generate regenerative power. Assisted bicycle and
An information processing device that charges a fee or points corresponding to the fee as a usage fee to the user who uses the electrically power assisted bicycle.
Equipped with
Prior to the use of the electrically assisted bicycle by the user, the information processing apparatus sets a usage mode indicating at least one of the amount of the assist driving force generated at the time of the assist and the amount of the regenerative braking force generated at the time of regeneration. , Accepted from the user,
The electrically assisted bicycle has a drive control unit that controls the assist driving force and the regenerative braking force according to the usage mode when used by the user.
A method of using a bicycle in which the information processing device determines the usage fee according to the remaining power of the battery before use and at least one of the usage modes.

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