JP2022110238A - Toll processing system and system modification method - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a toll processing system that is expected to be effective in reducing costs and workload involved in modifying billing models.SOLUTION: A toll processing system according to an embodiment includes a plurality of lane servers and a first toll booth server. The plurality of lane servers receive identification information from an in-vehicle device installed in a vehicle. The first toll booth server includes a first communication interface that connects to the plurality of lane servers, and generates charge information based on the identification information from a given lane server connected via the first communication interface. Furthermore, the first toll booth server generates first charge information regarding a sectional uniform toll based on a sectional uniform charge setting, and also generates second charge information regarding a toll per distance based on a charge per distance setting.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD Embodiments of the present invention relate to fee processing systems and system modification methods.

In the ETC (Electronic Toll Collection, a registered trademark) system that is widely used on toll roads, the entrance lane server communicates with the in-vehicle device of the vehicle passing through the entrance lane via an antenna provided corresponding to the entrance lane. In addition, the exit lane server wirelessly communicates with on-vehicle units of vehicles passing through the exit lane via the entrance lane through an antenna provided corresponding to the exit lane. In this way, wireless communication at each toll gate realizes non-stop toll collection without stopping vehicles at entrances and exits.

For example, as a toll road charging system, there are known a section flat charging system and a distance charging system. A uniform section charge is a method of charging a flat toll for vehicles that have traveled a specified section regardless of the distance traveled. It is a method to

For example, when uniform section charging is applied, the entrance lane server receives contract information including card identification information (hereinafter referred to as card ID) of the ETC card from the vehicle-mounted device of the passing vehicle via the antenna, and Based on the contract information from the entrance lane server, the server transmits detailed information on the section flat rate to the host server, and completes the billing process. The entrance lane server also transmits entrance identification information (hereinafter referred to as an entrance ID) to the vehicle-mounted device via an antenna, and the vehicle-mounted device receives the entrance ID and writes it to the ETC card. The exit lane server receives contract information, an entrance ID, and the like from the vehicle-mounted device of the passing vehicle via an antenna, and permits passage based on reception of an appropriate entrance ID.

When distance-based charging is applied, the entrance lane server receives the contract information from the vehicle-mounted device of the passing vehicle via the antenna, and also provides the vehicle-mounted device with the entrance ID (toll gate number, processing time, and vehicle type may be used together), and the vehicle-mounted device receives the entrance ID and writes it to the ETC card. In addition, the exit lane server receives the contract information, the entrance ID, etc. from the vehicle-mounted device of the passing vehicle via the antenna, and receives the received entrance ID and the exit identification information stored in the exit lane server (hereinafter referred to as the exit ID). ) (a tollgate number may be used together) to determine the toll distance, calculate the toll based on the toll table stored in the exit lane server and the determined toll distance, and detail information of the calculated toll is sent to the upper server to complete the billing process.

JP 2018-142233 A

As described above, the flat rate charging system and the distance charging system are known as charging systems for toll roads. For example, there is a change from flat rate pricing to distance based pricing. Such a change in billing system entails a certain amount of cost and work load.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is an object of the present invention to provide a charge processing system and a system change method that are expected to reduce the cost and work load associated with changing the billing method.

A toll processing system according to an embodiment includes a plurality of lane servers and a first toll booth server. The plurality of lane servers receive identification information from onboard equipment of the vehicle. The first tollgate server includes a first communication interface connected to the plurality of lane servers, and receives billing information based on identification information from a predetermined lane server connected via the first communication interface. Generate. Further, the first toll gate server generates first charging information related to the uniform section charge based on the setting of the uniform section charge, and generates second charge information related to the distance charge based on the setting of the distance charge. Generate.

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a schematic configuration of an ETC system according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of schematic configurations of a host server and a tollgate server according to the embodiment. FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a schematic configuration of a lane server and a lane device according to the embodiment; FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing an example of a schematic configuration of the vehicle-mounted device according to the embodiment. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a road network and each toll gate to which the toll processing system according to the embodiment is applied. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a first example of system change applied to the charge processing system according to the embodiment. FIG. 7A is a diagram showing the first half of the second example of system change applied to the fee processing system according to the embodiment. FIG. 7B is a diagram showing the second half of the second example of system change applied to the fee processing system according to the embodiment. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a third example of system change applied to the charge processing system according to the embodiment. FIG. 9A is a diagram showing the first half of the fourth example of system change applied to the fee processing system according to the embodiment. FIG. 9B is a diagram showing the second half of the fourth example of system change applied to the fee processing system according to the embodiment.

Hereinafter, embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings.
<Configuration of fee processing system>
FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a schematic configuration of an ETC system according to an embodiment.
An ETC system is an example of a toll processing system. The ETC system includes a host server 1 , multiple tollgate servers 2 , multiple lane servers 3 , and multiple lane devices 4 . For example, the ETC system includes tollgate servers 21 , 22 and 23 as the plurality of tollgate servers 2 , and an entrance lane server 31 and an exit lane server 32 as the plurality of lane servers 3 . The ETC system also includes an entrance lane device 41 and an exit lane device 42 as the plurality of lane devices 4 . For example, the hardware of the toll gate server 2 is constructed from a set of servers, and functions for handling details and table data are implemented for multiple units (toll gate servers 21, 22, and 23) for each toll gate.

A plurality of tollgate servers 2 including tollgate servers 21 , 22 and 23 are connected to the host server 1 . The toll booth server 2 has a communication interface that connects with a plurality of lane servers 3, and connects with one or a plurality of lane servers via the communication interface.

The entrance lane server 31 is connected to the entrance lane device 41 . The entrance lane device 41 installed corresponding to the entrance lane 61 of the toll road communicates with the vehicle-mounted device 51 of the vehicle 5 passing through the entrance lane 61 of the toll road via the antenna of the vehicle communication unit 415 by radio communication. to run.

The exit lane server 32 is also connected to the exit lane device 42 . The exit lane device 42 installed corresponding to the exit lane 62 of the toll road communicates with the vehicle-mounted device 51 of the vehicle 5 passing through the exit lane 62 of the toll road by radio communication via the antenna of the vehicle communication unit 425. to run.

In this way, wireless communication in the entrance lane 61 and the exit lane 62 realizes non-stop toll collection without stopping the vehicle 5 at the entrance and exit.

Also, in the ETC system, a route device may be installed corresponding to the main line 60 . The basic configuration of the routing device is similar to that of the entrance lane device 41 or the exit lane device 42, and the routing device performs route communication with the vehicle-mounted device 51 of the vehicle 5 traveling on the main line 60 of the toll road by wireless communication.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of schematic configurations of a host server and a tollgate server according to the embodiment.
The host server 1 is composed of one or a plurality of computers, and includes a control section 11 , a storage section 12 and a communication section 13 .
The control unit 11 corresponds to the core of the computer and controls data processing. The control unit 11 has a processor such as a CPU, a memory, an interface, and the like. A CPU is a processor that implements various processing functions by executing programs. The CPU is connected to each part of the host server 1 via an interface or the like. The memory includes a nonvolatile memory that stores programs executed by the CPU, a volatile memory that temporarily stores data, and the like.

The storage unit 12 includes a storage medium such as a main memory from which data can be read and written at high speed, and also includes a large-capacity storage device such as an HDD or an SSD. The storage unit 12 stores programs executed by the CPU of the control unit 11 .

The communication unit 13 is a communication interface that communicates with the outside via a network. The communication unit 13 receives billing information and the like transmitted from the toll gate server 2 .

The tollbooth server 21 is composed of one or more computers, and includes a control unit 211 , a storage unit 212 and a communication unit 213 .

The control unit 211 corresponds to the core of the computer and controls data processing. The control unit 211 has a processor such as a CPU, a memory, an interface, and the like. A CPU is a processor that implements various processing functions by executing programs. The CPU is connected to each part of the toll booth server 21 via an interface or the like. The memory includes a nonvolatile memory that stores programs executed by the CPU, a volatile memory that temporarily stores data, and the like.

The storage unit 212 includes a storage medium capable of high-speed reading and writing, such as a main memory, and also includes a large-capacity storage device. The storage unit 212 stores programs executed by the CPU of the control unit 211 .

The communication unit 213 is a communication interface that communicates with the outside via a network. The communication unit 213 receives identification information and the like from the lane server 3 and transmits the identification information and the like to the upper server 1 .

The configuration of the toll gate server 22 is the same as that of the toll gate server 21, and the description of the configuration of the toll gate server 22 is omitted.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a schematic configuration of a lane server and a lane device according to the embodiment;
The entrance lane server 31 is composed of one or more computers, and includes a control unit 311 , a storage unit 312 and a communication unit 313 .

The control unit 311 corresponds to the core of the computer and controls data processing. The control unit 311 has a processor such as a CPU, a memory, an interface, and the like. A CPU is a processor that implements various processing functions by executing programs. The CPU is connected to each part constituting the entrance lane server 31 via an interface or the like. The memory includes a nonvolatile memory that stores programs executed by the CPU, a volatile memory that temporarily stores data, and the like.

The storage unit 312 includes a storage medium capable of high-speed reading and writing, such as a main memory, and also includes a large-capacity storage device. The storage unit 312 stores programs executed by the CPU of the control unit 311 . The storage unit 312 stores an entrance ID that specifies an entrance lane corresponding to the entrance lane device 41 . The storage unit 312 also stores vehicle information and the like acquired through wireless communication with the vehicle-mounted device 51 , and also stores the entry communication date and time corresponding to the entrance communication with the vehicle-mounted device 51 .

A communication unit 313 is a communication interface that communicates with the outside via a network. The communication unit 313 receives identification information and the like from the entrance lane device 41 and transmits the identification information and the like to the toll gate server 2 .

The configuration of the exit lane server 32 is the same as the configuration of the entrance lane server 31, and the description of the configuration of the exit lane server 32 will be simplified. For example, the storage unit 322 of the exit lane server 32 stores an exit ID that specifies an exit lane corresponding to the exit lane device 42 . The storage unit 322 also stores vehicle information and the like acquired through wireless communication with the vehicle-mounted device 51 , and also stores the exit communication date and time corresponding to the exit communication with the vehicle-mounted device 51 .

Also, when calculating a toll for a distance in the host server 1, the storage unit 12 stores a basic toll table corresponding to the vehicle type specified from the traffic section determined by the entrance ID and the exit ID and the vehicle information. When the toll gate server 2 calculates the toll for the distance, the storage unit 212 stores a basic toll table corresponding to the vehicle type specified from the traffic section determined by the entrance ID and the exit ID and the vehicle information.

Next, the entrance lane device 41 will be described. The entrance lane device 41 is a connection device between the entrance lane server 31 and lane devices, and includes a communication unit 411, a control unit 412, a start controller 413, a roadside display 414, a vehicle communication unit 415, and a vehicle detection unit 416. . For example, the entrance lane device 41 mediates between the lane equipment and the entrance lane server 31, and performs entrance processing by wireless communication with the vehicle-mounted device 51 of the vehicle 5 traveling in the entrance lane. In the case of the entrance lane device 41 corresponding to the free flow that does not decelerate the vehicle, the start controller 413 and the roadside indicator 414 may be excluded from the configuration of the entrance lane device 41 .

The communication unit 411 is a communication interface that communicates with the entrance lane server 31 . The communication unit 411 transmits to the entrance lane server 31 the vehicle information acquired by wireless communication with the vehicle-mounted device 51 and the entrance communication date and time corresponding to the entrance communication with the vehicle-mounted device 51 .

The control unit 412 is a control unit that controls the entire entrance lane device 41 and performs data processing. The control unit 412 has a CPU, a memory, an interface, and the like. A CPU is a processor that implements various processing functions by executing programs. The CPU is connected to each part constituting the entrance lane device 41 via an interface or the like. The memory includes various types of memory such as a non-volatile memory that stores programs executed by the CPU and a volatile memory that temporarily holds data.

The start controller 413 controls entry of the vehicle to the toll road. The start controller 413 controls the opening and closing of the start control bar provided in the lane of the entrance tollgate based on detection of the entry of the vehicle 5 or the like. For example, the start controller 413 closes the start control bar to block the passage of the vehicle when temporarily stopping the vehicle or prohibiting passage (entrance) of the vehicle. Further, when permitting passage (entrance) of the vehicle, the start controller 413 opens the start control bar to permit the passage of the vehicle. It should be noted that the start bar may not be provided in the start controller 413 by prioritizing alleviation of congestion at the tollgate.

The roadside display 414 displays guidance and the like for users who get on vehicles passing through the entrance lane. The roadside indicator 414 is installed facing vehicles traveling in the entrance lane.

The vehicle communication unit 415 is a communication interface that supports wireless communication with the vehicle-mounted device 51 of the vehicle 5 . The vehicle communication unit 415 wirelessly communicates with the vehicle-mounted device 51 of the vehicle 5 passing through the entrance lane. The vehicle communication unit 415 receives vehicle information from the vehicle-mounted device 51 and outputs the vehicle information and the entry communication date and time.

In addition, the entrance lane device 41 includes a ticket issuing processing unit, and in response to the detection of the vehicle 5, the departure controller 413 closes the traffic lane with the departure control bar to temporarily stop the vehicle, and the ticket issuing processing unit A ticket or clearing ticket may be issued. For example, the entry record is written in the pass.

Next, the exit lane device 42 will be described. In the explanation of the exit lane device 42, the differences from the entrance lane device 41 will be mainly explained, and the explanation of substantially the same parts will be omitted as appropriate. The exit lane device 42 includes a communication section 421 , a control section 422 , a start controller 423 , a roadside indicator 424 , a vehicle communication section 425 and a storage section 426 . For example, the exit lane device 42 executes exit processing by wireless communication with the vehicle-mounted device 51 of the vehicle 5 passing through the exit lane.

The upper communication unit 421 is a communication interface that communicates with the exit lane server 32 . The communication unit 421 transmits to the exit lane server 32 vehicle information and the like obtained by wireless communication with the vehicle-mounted device 51 and the entry communication date and time corresponding to the exit communication with the vehicle-mounted device 51 .

The control unit 422 is a control unit that controls the entire exit lane device 42 and performs data processing. The control unit 422 has a CPU, a memory, an interface, and the like. A CPU is a processor that implements various processing functions by executing programs. The CPU is connected to each part constituting the exit lane device 42 via an interface or the like. The memory includes various types of memory such as a non-volatile memory that stores programs executed by the CPU and a volatile memory that temporarily holds data.

The vehicle communication unit 425 is a communication interface that supports wireless communication with the vehicle-mounted device 51 of the vehicle 5 . The vehicle communication unit 425 wirelessly communicates with the vehicle-mounted device 51 of the vehicle 5 passing through the exit lane. The vehicle communication unit 425 receives vehicle information and the like from the vehicle-mounted device 51 and outputs the vehicle information and the entry communication date and time.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing an example of a schematic configuration of the vehicle-mounted device according to the embodiment.
The vehicle-mounted device 51 includes a device communication section 511 , a control section 512 , a storage section 513 and a card processing section 514 . In addition, the vehicle-mounted device 51 includes a display and a speaker for outputting various information.

The device communication unit 511 is a communication interface that wirelessly communicates with the entrance lane device 41 provided corresponding to each entrance lane and the exit lane device 42 provided corresponding to each exit lane. The device communication unit 511 transmits vehicle information including vehicle-mounted device identification information (hereinafter referred to as vehicle-mounted device ID) and card ID to the entrance lane device 41 or the exit lane device 42, and receives an entry record from the entrance lane device 41. do. In addition, the device communication unit 511 transmits vehicle information to the exit lane device 42 and receives entry records and tolls from the exit lane device 42 .

The control unit 512 controls communication and processes an ETC card, which is a type of IC (integrated circuit) card for settling tolls. The control unit 512 has a processor such as a CPU, a memory, an interface, and the like. A CPU is a processor that implements various processing functions by executing programs. The CPU is connected to each part constituting the vehicle-mounted device 51 via an interface or the like. The memory includes a nonvolatile memory that stores programs executed by the CPU, a volatile memory that temporarily stores data, and the like. That is, the control unit 512 executes data processing by causing the CPU to execute a program stored in the memory.

The storage unit 513 stores the vehicle-mounted device ID. The storage unit 513 also stores programs executed by the CPU of the control unit 52 .
The card processing unit 514 accepts the ETC card, reads the card ID to be transmitted to the entrance lane device 41 from the ETC card, and writes the entry record transmitted from the entrance lane device 41 to the ETC card. The entrance record includes an entrance ID specifying the entrance lane device 41 or the entrance (tollgate) and the entrance communication date and time. In addition, the card processing unit 514 reads the card ID and entry record to be transmitted to the exit lane device 42 from the ETC card, and writes the exit record transmitted from the exit lane device 42 to the ETC card. The entry record includes an exit ID specifying an exit lane device 42 or an exit (toll gate) and entry communication date and time.
<Changes to the fee processing system>
Next, changes to the fee processing system will be described. In this embodiment, the change of the charge processing system is explained, but it may be read as migration or update of the charge processing system.

A method of changing the system from uniform charging, in which a fixed amount is collected each time a toll gate passes, to distance-based charging, in which a charge is collected according to the distance traveled, will be described. The image of the change is as follows.

(1) Uniform section charging For example, the tollgate server 21 connects with the entrance lane server 31 and the exit lane server 32 via the communication unit 213 that functions as a first communication interface that connects with a plurality of lane servers.

When the vehicle 5 passes through the entrance lane 61 and enters the toll road, the vehicle communication unit 415 of the entrance lane device 41 communicates with the vehicle-mounted device 51 of the vehicle 5 passing through the entrance lane 61, and receives the identification information from the vehicle-mounted device 51. receive. For example, the identification information includes an onboard equipment ID and a card ID. The communication unit 411 of the entrance lane device 41 transmits the received identification information to the entrance lane server 31 .

The communication unit 313 of the entrance lane server 31 receives identification information from the vehicle-mounted device 51 of the vehicle 5 passing through the entrance lane 61 via the entrance lane device 41, and the control unit 311, based on the received identification information, An entry record corresponding to traffic on the entrance lane 61 is generated, and the communication unit 313 transmits the identification information and the entry record to the tollgate server 21 . The communication unit 213 of the toll gate server 21 receives the identification information and the entry record, and transmits the identification information and the entry record to the host server 1 . Also, the communication unit 313 of the entrance lane server 31 transmits the entry record to the entrance lane device 41 .

The communication unit 411 of the entrance lane device 41 receives the entrance record from the entrance lane server 31 , and the vehicle communication unit 415 transmits the entrance record to the vehicle-mounted device 51 . The vehicle-mounted device 51 receives the entry record and writes the entry record into the ETC card.

In addition, the control unit 211 of the toll gate server 21 generates the first entrance detailed information ( first billing information), and the communication unit 213 transmits the first entrance detailed information to the host server 1 . For example, the first fee table includes a uniform section fee (for example, 400 yen) by vehicle type. The first entry detail information generated here includes identification information, entry records, and flat fees. The communication unit 13 of the host server 1 receives the first entrance detailed information, and the control unit 11 executes charging processing for charging a flat fee for the card ID included in the first entrance detailed information. Alternatively, in order to formally collect tolls at the exit, the control unit 211 generates the first entrance detailed information regarding the uniform section toll based on the identification information and the entrance record from the entrance lane server 31, and the communication unit 213 The first entry detail information is sent to the host server 1 . For example, the first entry detail information includes identification information, an entry record, and a provisional fee of 0 yen. The communication unit 13 of the host server 1 receives the first entrance detailed information, and the control unit 11 executes charging processing for charging a flat fee for the card ID included in the first entrance detailed information.

(2) Sectional uniform billing (exit processing)
Further, when the vehicle 5 passes through the exit lane 62 and leaves the toll road, the vehicle communication unit 425 of the exit lane device 42 communicates with the on-vehicle device 51 of the vehicle 5 passing through the exit lane 62, Receive identification and entry records. The communication unit 421 of the exit lane device 42 transmits the received identification information and entrance record to the exit lane server 32 .

The communication unit 323 of the exit lane server 32 receives the identification information and entry record from the vehicle-mounted device 51 of the vehicle 5 passing through the exit lane 62 via the exit lane device 42, and the control unit 321 receives the received identification information. And based on the entry record, it determines whether the vehicle can pass or not, and executes the exit process. The control unit 211 of the toll gate server 21 refers to the first toll table from the received identification information and entry record to determine the charged amount, generates the first exit detail information, and transmits it to the host server 1 . When the first entrance detail information generated based on the identification information from the entrance lane server 31 includes a section flat fee (for example, 0 yen), the first exit generated based on the identification information from the exit lane server 32 The detailed information includes a section flat rate (for example, 400 yen). If the received identification information is in the correct identification information format and the received entry record is within a predetermined period, the control unit 211 permits passage. In addition, the control unit 321 generates an entry record corresponding to passage of the exit lane 62 , and the communication unit 323 transmits the generated entry record to the tollgate server 21 . Also, the communication unit 323 transmits the entry record to the exit lane device 42 .

The communication unit 421 of the exit lane device 42 receives the entry record from the exit lane server 32 , and the vehicle communication unit 425 transmits the entry record to the vehicle-mounted device 51 . The vehicle-mounted device 51 receives the entry record and writes the entry record into the ETC card.

Also, the communication unit 213 of the tollgate server 21 transmits the first exit detail information to the host server 1 . The first exit detail information includes identification information, entry record, exit record, and flat fee. The communication unit 13 of the host server 1 receives the first exit detailed information, and the control unit 11 uses the already received first entrance detailed information and the newly received first exit detailed information to perform section uniform Check that billing was performed properly.

When a route device is installed corresponding to the main line 60, the route device communicates with the vehicle-mounted device 51 of the vehicle 5 passing through the main line 60, receives the identification information and the entry record, and sends the identification information to the tollgate server 21. Information and entry records may be sent.

(3) When performing distance-based charging that is changed from uniform section charging , to the exit lane server 32 separated from the tollgate server 21 .

When the vehicle 5 passes through the entrance lane 61 and enters the toll road, the vehicle communication unit 415 of the entrance lane device 41 communicates with the vehicle-mounted device 51 of the vehicle 5 passing through the entrance lane 61, and receives the identification information from the vehicle-mounted device 51. receive. For example, the identification information includes an onboard equipment ID and a card ID. The communication unit 411 of the entrance lane device 41 transmits the received identification information to the entrance lane server 31 .

The communication unit 313 of the entrance lane server 31 receives identification information from the vehicle-mounted device 51 of the vehicle 5 passing through the entrance lane 61 via the entrance lane device 41, and the control unit 311, based on the received identification information, An entry record corresponding to traffic on the entrance lane 61 is generated, and the communication unit 313 transmits the generated entry record to the tollgate server 21 . The communication unit 213 of the toll booth server 21 receives the entry record and transmits the entry record to the host server 1 . Also, the communication unit 313 of the entrance lane server 31 transmits the entry record to the entrance lane device 41 .

The communication unit 411 of the entrance lane device 41 receives the entrance record from the entrance lane server 31 , and the vehicle communication unit 415 transmits the entrance record to the vehicle-mounted device 51 . The vehicle-mounted device 51 receives the entry record and writes the entry record into the ETC card.

In addition, the control unit 211 of the toll gate server 21 generates second entrance detailed information ( second billing information), and the communication unit 213 transmits the second entrance detailed information to the host server 1 . The second fee table includes a provisional fee of 0 yen. The second entry detail information includes identification information, an entry record, and a provisional fee (0 yen). The communication unit 223 of the upper server 1 receives the second entrance detailed information.

Further, when the vehicle 5 passes through the exit lane 62 and leaves the toll road, the vehicle communication unit 425 of the exit lane device 42 communicates with the on-vehicle device 51 of the vehicle 5 passing through the exit lane 62, Receive identification and entry records. The communication unit 421 of the exit lane device 42 transmits the received identification information and entrance record to the exit lane server 32 .

The communication unit 323 of the exit lane server 32 receives the identification information and the entry record from the vehicle-mounted device 51 of the vehicle 5 passing through the exit lane 62 via the exit lane device 42, and the control unit 321 controls the exit lane 62. An entry record corresponding to the passage is generated, and the communication unit 323 transmits the identification information, the entry record, and the entry record to the tollgate server 22 . The communication unit 223 of the toll gate server 22 receives the identification information, the entry record, and the exit record from the exit lane server 32, and calculates the distance-to-charge based on the identification information, the entry record, the exit record, and the third toll table. generate third billing information (second exit detail information) relating to The second exit detail information includes identification information, entry record, exit record, and distance fee. The distance-based toll is a toll corresponding to the passage section (distance) determined from the entrance ID and the exit ID. Also, the communication unit 323 of the exit lane server 32 transmits the entry record to the exit lane device 42 .

The communication unit 421 of the exit lane device 42 receives the entry record from the exit lane server 32 , and the vehicle communication unit 425 transmits the entry record to the vehicle-mounted device 51 . The vehicle-mounted device 51 receives the entry record and writes the entry record into the ETC card.

Also, the communication unit 223 of the toll gate server 22 transmits the generated second exit detail information to the host server 1 . The communication unit 13 of the host server 1 receives the second exit detailed information and executes charging processing based on the second exit detailed information.

When a route device is installed corresponding to the main line 60, the route device communicates with the vehicle-mounted device 51 of the vehicle 5 passing through the main line 60, receives the identification information and the entry record, and passes to the tollgate server 21. You may make it transmit detailed information. The pass detail information includes identification information, entry records, and provisional fees (0 yen).

As described above, the following effects are obtained.
(1) For toll gates that require inflow processing of flat tolls and outflow processing of distance tolls, by separating the lanes of flat tolls and distance tolls and controlling the toll table, the flat tolls will be replaced by distance tolls. enable the transition to (2) At a tollgate with two functions, uniform toll outflow processing and distance toll inflow and outflow processing, the flat toll outflow processing is shifted to distance toll outflow processing, and the empty toll gate function is ( 1) Rebuild the separation. (3) For tollgates whose functions change significantly, after creating a new tollgate and confirming the functions, a method will be adopted in which lane equipment is returned to the old tollgate, and the lane equipment is reconnected to the new tollgate when it is put into service. (4) Delete lanes or tollgates themselves that are no longer necessary as a result of separating, integrating, or migrating tollgates. By combining the above methods, it is possible to reduce the change load of the tollgate system.
<Application example>
Hereinafter, an outline of an application example of the change in the road network and each toll gate to which the toll processing system according to the embodiment is applied will be described.
FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a road network and each toll gate to which the toll processing system according to the embodiment is applied.
As shown in FIG. 5, for example, the road network includes flat toll zones E1, E2, E3 and a distance toll zone E4. In the uniform toll zone E1, an entrance toll gate A is provided along the inbound entrance lane, an entrance toll gate A is provided along the outbound entrance lane, a toll gate B is provided along the inbound exit lane, and a toll gate B is provided along the outbound exit lane. A tollbooth B is provided along the road. In addition, a main line toll gate C is provided along the inbound main line from the uniform toll zone E2 to E1. Further, a main line tollgate C is provided along the down main line from the uniform toll zone E2 to E3.

In the uniform toll zone E2, an entrance/exit toll gate D is provided along the inbound entrance lane and the inbound exit lane, and an entrance/exit toll gate E is provided along the inbound entrance lane and the inbound exit lane. Further, in the uniform toll zone E3, entrance/exit toll gates D are provided along the outbound entrance lane and the inbound exit lane. In the uniform toll zone E3, entrance/exit toll gates E are provided along the inbound entrance lane and the outbound exit lane. In addition, a main line toll gate F is provided along the inbound main line from the uniform toll zone E3 to E2.

A main line toll gate G is provided along the inbound main line of the distance toll zone E4. Further, in the distance toll zone E4, entrance/exit toll gates H are provided along the inbound entrance lane, the inbound exit lane, and the outbound exit lane. A main line toll gate I is provided along the down main line of the distance toll zone E4. Also, in the distance toll zone E4, entrance/exit toll gates J are provided along the inbound entrance lane and the outbound exit lane.

For example, the above-described modified example of the toll processing system can be applied to the entrance/exit tollgate E.

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a first example of system change applied to the charge processing system according to the embodiment. In this system change, a case will be described in which processing by one toll gate server 2 is separated between two toll gate servers. For example, this system change is applicable to the change of tollgate E shown in FIG.

A toll gate server 2a shown in FIG. 6 corresponds to the toll gate server 21, and a toll gate server 2b corresponds to the toll gate server 22, and is a server for distance-based tolls (flat rate OFF). Lane servers L1, L2, L3, and L4 correspond to a plurality of lane servers 3. For example, lane server L1 corresponds to entrance lane server 31, and lane server L4 corresponds to exit lane server 32. Also, the old charge table corresponds to the first charge table, and the new charge table corresponds to the second charge table.

Currently (ST11), the lane servers L1, L2, L3, and L4 are connected to the tollgate server 2a, and the tollgate server 2a processes the toll according to the old toll table (for example, flat rate of 400 yen).

In the toll gate registration to the toll gate server (ST12), the toll gate is newly registered in the current server as the toll gate server 2b. The tollgate server 2b processes the toll using the new toll table.

In the lane server relocation 1 (ST13), the lane server L4 is disconnected from the toll gate server 2a, and the lane server L4 is connected to the toll gate server 2b. The tollgate server 2b to which the lane server L4 is connected executes exit collection of the distance toll. However, the fee is set at 400 yen, which is the same as the current fee regardless of which entrance ID you enter (see the old fee table).

In lane server relocation 2 (ST14), lane server L3 is disconnected from toll gate server 2a and lane server L3 is connected to toll gate server 2b. On the day (x-day) when the billing method is changed, the old toll table is switched to the new toll table (the new toll table contains distance tolls for each tollgate ID that has been switched from uniform collection to entrance ticketing). are).

In deleting the old settings (ST15), the settings of the lane servers L3 and L4 are deleted from the tollgate server 2a.

7A and 7B are diagrams showing a second example of system change applied to the fee processing system according to the embodiment. In this system change, a case where the type of tollgate is changed will be explained. For example, this system change can be applied to changes in toll gates G and F shown in FIG.

A tollgate server 2 a shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B corresponds to the tollgate server 21 , and a tollgate server 2b corresponds to the tollgate server 22 . Lane servers L3, L4, L5, L6, and L7 correspond to a plurality of lane servers 3. FIG. Also, the old charge table corresponds to the first charge table, and the new charge table corresponds to the second charge table.

At present (ST21), it is a distance-to-exit tollgate. This will be converted into a flat toll gate (main line). Therefore, the flat toll gate (main line) will be registered as a separate toll gate and transferred.

In the toll gate registration to the toll gate server, a uniform main line toll gate is newly registered in the toll gate server 2b.

In the lane server modification confirmation (ST23), the lane server L7 connected to the toll gate server 2a is disconnected, and the lane server L7 is connected to the toll gate server 2b to form a uniform main toll gate. The same applies to other lane servers L3, L4, L5, and L6. After that, the status quo is restored (ST24), the lane server is relocated (ST25), the tollgate server 2a is switched to the tollgate server 2b on the change date (x-day) of the billing method, and the old settings are deleted (ST26). ).

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a third example of system change applied to the charge processing system according to the embodiment. In this system change, a case where the type of tollgate is changed will be explained. For example, this system change is applicable to the change of tollgate H shown in FIG. Downstream H1 corresponds to uniform receipt and by transition corresponds to the same distance-to-distance receipt as upstream H2. Upstream inflow H3 corresponds to entrance ticketing.

A toll gate server 2 a shown in FIG. 8 corresponds to the toll gate server 21 , and a toll gate server 2 b corresponds to the toll gate server 22 . Lane servers L1, L2, L3, L4, L5, L6, and L7 correspond to a plurality of lane servers 3. FIG. Also, the old charge table corresponds to the first charge table, and the new charge table corresponds to the second charge table.

Currently (ST31), lane servers L4 and L5 are flat toll gates. This is converted into a distance-to-distance exit. Therefore, it will be relocated to the adjacent distance toll booth.

In the additional registration of lanes in the toll gate server (ST32), the lane servers L4 and L5 serving as distance exits are connected to the toll gate server 2b.

In lane server relocation 1 (ST33), lane server L4 is disconnected from tollgate server 2b and connected to tollgate server 2a. The tollgate server 2a carries out distance-to-exit collection based on the information from the lane server L4.

In lane server relocation 2 (ST34), lane server L5 is disconnected from tollgate server 2b and connected to tollgate server 2a. The tollgate server 2a carries out distance-to-exit collection based on the information from the lane server L5. Until x-day, the fare tables of the lane servers L4 and L5 are changed to a uniform fare (400 yen) regardless of the entrance ID, and on x-day, the fare is switched to a fare corresponding to the entrance ID.

In lane server relocation 3 (ST35), the tollgate server 2b is abolished.

9A and 9B are diagrams showing a fourth example of system change applied to the fee processing system according to the embodiment. In this system change, a case where the type of tollgate is changed will be explained. For example, this system change is applicable to the change of tollgate I shown in FIG.

A toll gate server 2 a shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B corresponds to the toll gate server 21 . Lane servers L4, L5, L6, L7, L8, and L9 correspond to a plurality of lane servers 3 and are connected to entrance lane devices capable of issuing tickets. Also, the old charge table corresponds to the first charge table, and the new charge table corresponds to the second charge table.

Currently (ST41), lane servers L4, L5, and L6 are connected to the tollgate server 2a.

In the toll gate registration to the toll gate server (ST42), lane servers L7, L8, and L9 are added to the toll gate server 2a. Lane servers L7, L8, and L9 are seamless compatible toll booths based on uniform toll booths connected to receipt totaling devices.

In the lane server relocation 1 (ST43), the lane server L4 is changed in setting and connected as the lane server L7.

In the restoration to the current state (ST44), the system is operated in the restored state.

In lane server relocation 2 (ST45), lane servers L4, L5, and L6 are modified again on x-day and connected as lane servers L7, L8, and L9 for common use.

In deleting old settings (ST46), lane servers L4, L5, and L6 are deleted.

As described above, according to this embodiment, the effect of reducing the cost and work load associated with changing the billing method can be expected.

While several embodiments of the invention have been described, these embodiments have been presented by way of example and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, replacements, and modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the invention. These embodiments and modifications thereof are included in the scope and gist of the invention, and are included in the scope of the invention described in the claims and equivalents thereof.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1... Upper-level server 2, 21, 22, 2a, 2b... Toll gate server 3... Lane server 4... Lane device 5... Vehicle 11... Control part 12... Storage part 13... Communication part 31... Entrance lane server 32... Exit lane server 41... Entrance lane device 42... Exit lane apparatus 51... Vehicle-mounted device 52... Control section 60... Main line 61... Entrance lane 62... Exit lane 211... Control section 212... Storage section 213... Communication section 221... Control section 223... Communication section 311 Control unit 312 Storage unit 313 Communication unit 323 Communication unit 411 Communication unit 412 Control unit 413 Starting controller 414 Roadside indicator 415 Vehicle communication unit 416 Vehicle detection unit 421 Communication unit 422 Control Part 423... Start controller 424... Roadside indicator 425... Vehicle communication part 426... Storage part 511... Equipment communication part 512... Control part 513... Storage parts L1 to L9... Lane server

Claims (9)

A system change method for changing from uniform section billing to distance-based billing,
When performing section flat billing,
the first toll gate server connects with the first and second lane servers via a first communication interface that connects with the plurality of lane servers;
The first lane server receives identification information from the vehicle-mounted device of the vehicle passing through the entrance lane, generates an entry record corresponding to passage of the entrance lane based on the identification information, and transmits the identification information and the entry record to the above. Send to the first tollgate server, send the entry record to the onboard device of the vehicle,
The first toll gate server generates first billing information including a flat fee based on the identification information and the entry record from the first lane server and transmits the first billing information to the host server;
The second lane server receives identification information and entry records from the vehicle-mounted device of vehicles passing through the exit lane, and executes exit processing based on the identification information and entry records,
When performing distance-based charging that is changed from segment flat charging,
the first toll gate server disconnects the second lane server;
a second tollgate server connected to the second lane server disconnected from the first tollgate server;
The first lane server receives identification information from the vehicle-mounted device of the vehicle passing through the entrance lane, generates an entry record corresponding to passage of the entrance lane based on the identification information, and transmits the identification information and the entry record to the above. Send to the first toll gate server, send the entry record to the on-vehicle device,
The first toll gate server generates second billing information including a provisional toll based on the identification information and the entry record from the first lane server and transmits the second billing information to the host server;
The second lane server receives identification information and entry records from on-vehicle equipment of vehicles passing through the exit lane,
The second toll gate server generates third billing information related to the distance toll based on the identification information and the entry record from the second lane server.
How to change system. The first toll gate server generates the first charging information including the flat rate based on the first rate table, and generates the second charging information including the provisional rate of 0 yen based on the second rate table. generate billing information,
2. The system modification method of claim 1. a plurality of lane servers that receive identification information from vehicle onboard equipment;
a first toll booth server that includes a first communication interface that connects to the plurality of lane servers and that generates billing information based on identification information from a predetermined lane server connected via the first communication interface; ,
with
The first toll gate server generates first billing information regarding the flat rate for a section based on the setting of the flat rate for section, and generates second billing information regarding the charge for the distance based on the setting for the charge for the distance. ,
fee processing system. The plurality of lane servers includes a first lane server that receives identification information from onboard equipment of vehicles passing through the entrance lane,
The first tollgate server transmits the first billing information including a flat toll to a host server based on the setting of the uniform section billing and the identification information from the first lane server. transmitting the second billing information including a provisional toll to the host server based on billing settings and identification information from the first lane server;
The fee processing system according to claim 3. The first lane server generates an entry record corresponding to traffic in the entrance lane based on the identification information, transmits the identification information and the entry record to the first tollgate server, and sends the entry record to the vehicle-mounted device. Send,
The fee processing system according to claim 4. The first toll gate server generates the first billing information including the flat toll based on the section flat billing setting and the first toll table, and generates the distance toll billing setting and the second toll table. generating the second billing information including the provisional charge of 0 yen based on
The fee processing system according to claim 5. The plurality of lane servers includes a second lane server that receives identification information and entry records from vehicle-mounted devices of vehicles passing through the exit lane,
The second lane server executes exit processing based on identification information and entry records.
The fee processing system according to claim 5 or 6. A second toll booth server that includes a second communication interface that connects to a plurality of lane servers and generates billing information based on identification information from a predetermined lane server that is connected via the second communication interface. ,
The second tollgate server is connected to the second lane server separated from the first tollgate server, and is connected to the second lane server, and based on the identification information and the entry record from the connected second lane server, the distance is calculated. generating third billing information for charges;
The fee processing system of claim 7. the second toll gate server generates an entry record corresponding to passage in the exit lane based on the identification information from the second lane server, and a third toll table including tolls according to travel distance; and calculating the distance-based toll based on the specific travel distance specified from the entrance record and the exit record, generating the third billing information including the distance-based toll, and transmitting it to the upper server;
The fee processing system of claim 8.

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