JP5676353B2 - Support method for purchasing cars or parts - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a support method for purchasing a car or a part.

  For those who are interested in cars, driving performance and appearance are important. Among these persons, there are persons who consider improving the running performance by replacing parts. Some people consider changing the appearance by replacing parts.

  Due to the development of information technology (hereinafter IT), events in the real world may be reproduced in the virtual world. The use of IT is being studied from the viewpoint of improving business efficiency. Examples of this study are disclosed in Japanese Patent Laid-Open Nos. 2002-230043 and 2002-230877.

Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2002-230043 Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2002-230587

  The effects of parts replacement may not be obtained as expected. In this case, the cost required for parts replacement is wasted. For this reason, even if they are interested in a car, there are many people who consider the car as a simple means of transportation. There is a current situation that a large number of potential consumers are not sufficiently motivated to purchase cars or parts.

  An object of the present invention is to provide a support method for purchasing a vehicle or a part that can motivate a large number of potential consumers for purchase.

The support method for purchasing a car or a part according to the present invention is implemented based on a system including a host-side server S and a user-side terminal T that are connected so as to be able to communicate with each other. The support method includes (1) a step in which the terminal T transmits information on a part scheduled to be used in place of a genuine part of the base car to the server S;
(2) The server S identifies a usable part in place of the genuine part based on the information on the part,
(3) the terminal T recombines the genuine part with the specified part to produce a modified car from the base car;
(4) The terminal T transmits information related to a field scheduled to be used for evaluation of the modified vehicle,
(5) The server S specifies a field that can be used for the evaluation of the modified vehicle based on the information on the field, and (6) the terminal T evaluates the modified vehicle in the specified field. The process of performing is included.

The support method for purchasing other vehicles or parts according to the present invention is implemented based on a system including a host-side server S and a user-side terminal T that are connected so as to be able to communicate with each other. This support method is
(1) a step in which the terminal T transmits information related to a part that is scheduled to be used instead of a genuine part of a base vehicle to the server S;
(2) The server S identifies a usable part in place of the genuine part based on the information on the part,
(3) The server S replaces the genuine part with the specified part and creates a modified car from the base car,
(4) The terminal T transmits information related to a field scheduled to be used for evaluation of the modified vehicle,
(5) The server S specifies a field that can be used for evaluation of the modified vehicle based on information on the field,
And (6) the server S includes a step of evaluating the modified vehicle in the specified field.

  The support method for purchasing a vehicle or parts according to the present invention can sufficiently provide motivation for purchase to a large number of potential consumers. This support method can contribute to the development of consumer groups.

FIG. 1 is a schematic configuration diagram illustrating a support system for purchasing a car or a part according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a flowchart of the support system for purchasing the car or parts of FIG. FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing a work procedure for the registration (STEP 1) shown in FIG. FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing a work procedure for the modification (STEP 2) shown in FIG. FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing a work procedure for the evaluation (STEP 3) shown in FIG. FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing a work procedure for the lending (STEP 4) shown in FIG. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a work procedure for the purchase (STEP 5) shown in FIG. FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing a work procedure for modification (STEP 2) included in a system for purchasing a car or a part according to another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing a work procedure for evaluation (STEP 3), which is further included in the system for purchasing a car or parts of FIG. FIG. 10 is a flowchart of work performed in the support method for purchasing a car or a part according to another embodiment of the present invention.

  Hereinafter, the present invention will be described in detail based on preferred embodiments with appropriate reference to the drawings.

  The support method for purchasing a car or a part of the present invention is implemented based on the system 2 shown in FIG. In this system 2, in the virtual society built in the network, the host allows the user to experience a change in the characteristics of the car due to the modification, as in the real society.

  The system 2 includes a server S on the host side and a terminal T on the user side. Examples of the host include a car manufacturer and its dealer, and a manufacturer of parts used in this car and its dealer. The user is a consumer who receives information from the host and uses it.

  In this system 2, the server S and the terminal T are connected so as to be able to communicate with each other via the Internet 4 as a network. In the system 2, two or more terminals T may be connected to the server S via the Internet 4. The system 2 can include a server S and a plurality of terminals T.

  The server S includes a transmission / reception unit SI, a recording unit SH, a display unit SD, a calculation unit SC, and an input unit SK. Although not shown, the transmission / reception unit SI has transmission / reception means capable of communicating via the Internet 4. An example of this transmission / reception unit SI is an interface. Although not shown, the recording unit SH can be used for evaluation of a base car, parts that can be used in place of genuine parts incorporated in the base car, and modified cars made from the base car. It has a recording medium that can store a lot of data relating to the field. An example of the recording unit SH is a hard disk. Although not shown, the display unit SD includes a display unit that can display an image. An example of the display unit SD is a display. Although not shown, the calculation unit SC includes a specifying unit that specifies data based on information transmitted from the terminal T on the user side and a determination unit that can determine whether or not the user information is applicable. As this calculating part SC, a central processing unit (CPU) is illustrated. Although not shown, the input unit SK has input means for inputting information. An example of the input unit SK is a keyboard. The server S may include a printer used for outputting data as an output unit.

  The terminal T includes a transmission / reception unit TI, a display unit TD, a calculation unit TC, a recording unit TH, and an input unit TK. Although not shown, the transmission / reception unit TI has transmission / reception means capable of communicating via the Internet 4. An example of the transmission / reception unit TI is an interface. In the system 2, the transmission / reception unit TI is connected to the transmission / reception unit SI of the server S. Although not shown, the display unit TD has display means that can display an image. A display is exemplified as the display unit TD. Although not shown, the calculation unit TC includes a processing unit that processes data and an evaluation unit that can evaluate the processed data. As this calculating part TC, a central processing unit (CPU) is illustrated. Although not shown, the recording unit TH has recording means capable of recording a large number of data. An example of the recording unit TH is a hard disk. Although not shown, the input unit TK has input means for inputting information. An example of the input unit TK is a keyboard. This terminal T may include a printer used for outputting data as an output unit.

  FIG. 2 shows a flowchart of work performed in the support method of the present invention. In this support method, user information is registered in the server S (STEP 1). Thereby, the base car data is provided to the user. The base car is remodeled using the data of the parts stored in the server S (STEP 2). Evaluation of the modified car is executed (STEP 3). A base car or a modified car (hereinafter referred to as a car) is rented from the host to the user (STEP 4). A car is ordered (STEP 5). This support method includes a step of registering user information (STEP 1), a step of remodeling a base vehicle (STEP 2), a step of evaluating a remodeled vehicle (STEP 3), a step of lending a vehicle (STEP 4), and a step of ordering a vehicle ( STEP5) is included.

  FIG. 3 shows an operation procedure for user information registration (STEP 1). In this registration step (STEP 1), user information is input by the input unit TK of the terminal T. This user information includes information on a base vehicle that the user desires to experience a virtual experience. The transmission / reception unit TI transmits user information to the server S (S1a). The server S receives this user information at the transceiver unit SI (S1b). The recording unit SH stores the received user information. Thereby, the user information is registered in the recording unit SH (S1c). The transmission / reception unit SI transmits the data regarding the base vehicle stored in the recording unit SH to the terminal T together with the registration completion notification (S1d). The terminal T receives the registration completion notification and the base vehicle data at the transmitting / receiving unit TI (S1e). The received base vehicle data is stored in the recording unit TH of the terminal T. In this registration step (STEP 1), the user can obtain the base vehicle data by providing his / her information to the host.

  FIG. 4 shows a work procedure for remodeling the base vehicle (STEP 2). In this remodeling step (STEP 2), information related to a part that the user plans to use in place of a genuine part (hereinafter, part specifying information) is input by the input unit TK of the terminal T. An example of this component is a tire. The transmission / reception unit TI transmits this component specifying information toward the server S (S2a). The server S receives this component specifying information in the transmission / reception unit SI (S2b). Thereby, the server S obtains component identification information. The calculation unit SC of the server S specifies a component that matches this information from the data stored in the recording unit SH (S2c). In other words, the calculation unit SC specifies a component that can be used in place of a genuine component based on the information transmitted from the terminal T. The transmission / reception unit SI transmits the specified component information toward the terminal T (S2d). The terminal T receives this component information at the transmission / reception unit TI (S2e). The user looks at the component information displayed on the display unit TD of the terminal T and considers the acceptance of the component information. When the user accepts the part information, the data regarding the part is stored in the recording unit TH of the terminal T. When the user decides to examine another part, the information for specifying the part desired to be replaced is input again by the input unit TK of the terminal T. This information is transmitted toward the server S by the transmission / reception unit TI (S2a).

  In the remodeling step (STEP 2), when the user receives the part information, the user replaces the part while viewing the image displayed on the display unit TD of the terminal T based on the part information. In this replacement, the computing unit TC of the terminal T uses the processing means to recombine the genuine parts of the base car with the specified parts. As this processing means, a three-dimensional CAD system is exemplified. This recombination creates a modified car from the base car. In this support method, the base vehicle is modified by the calculation unit TC (S2f). The transmission / reception unit TI transmits the modified vehicle information toward the server S (S2g). The transmission / reception unit SI of the server S receives the modified vehicle information (S2h). The calculation unit SC determines whether the modification is appropriate (S2i). In this determination (S2i), whether or not production is possible, whether or not laws and regulations are applied, and the like are examined, and whether or not remodeling is appropriate is determined. The determination result is transmitted toward the terminal T by the transmission / reception unit SI (S2j). The transmission / reception unit TI of the terminal T receives this determination result (S2k). When a determination result indicating that the modification is not possible is obtained, the user again uses the input unit TK of the terminal T to input information for specifying a part desired to be replaced. The component specifying information is transmitted to the server S by the transmission / reception unit TI (S2a). When a determination result indicating that the modification is possible is obtained, information on the modified vehicle is stored in the recording unit TH.

  This remodeling process (STEP 2) can provide a user with a simulated experience of obtaining parts and remodeling a car in a shop installed in a virtual society. According to this support method, the user can experience the remodeling of the vehicle executed in the real world in the virtual world.

  FIG. 5 shows a work procedure for evaluation of a modified vehicle (STEP 3). In this evaluation step (STEP 3), the user selects a field for evaluation. Examples of this field include those relating to speed, those relating to fuel consumption, and those relating to safety. The user inputs information about a field scheduled to be used for evaluation (hereinafter, field specifying information) using the input unit TK. The transmission / reception unit TI transmits field specifying information toward the server S (S3a). The server S receives this field specifying information in the transmission / reception unit SI (S3b). Thereby, the server S obtains the field specifying information. The calculation unit SC identifies a field that matches this information from the data stored in the recording unit SH (S3c). In this support method, the computing unit SC identifies a field that can be used for evaluation based on information transmitted from the terminal T. The transmission / reception unit SI transmits the information of the specified field toward the terminal T (S3d). The terminal T receives this field information at the transmission / reception unit TI (S3e). The user looks at the field information displayed on the display unit TD of the terminal T and considers acceptance of the field information. When the user decides to examine another field, information for specifying the field desired to be evaluated is input again by the input unit TK of the terminal T. This information is transmitted toward the server S by the transmission / reception unit TI (S3a).

  In this evaluation step (STEP 3), when the user accepts the field information, the terminal T starts evaluating the modified car. In this support method, the calculation unit TC of the terminal T can evaluate the modified vehicle in the specified field (S3f). In this evaluation, the calculation unit TC reproduces the traveling of the vehicle using the evaluation means. As this evaluation means, a program for reproducing the running of the car is exemplified. In the reproduction, the component data stored in the recording unit TH is used. If the replaced part is a tire, this data includes the longitudinal spring, lateral spring, cornering power, cornering force, rolling resistance and mass of the tire. In this evaluation step (STEP 3), the traveling of the vehicle is reproduced based on these data.

  This evaluation process (STEP 3) can provide a user with a simulated experience of running a modified car on a circuit course provided in a virtual society. Thereby, the user can confirm the effect of the parts used for remodeling in a virtual society. According to this support method, the user can experience the evaluation of the vehicle executed in the real society in the virtual society.

  With this support method, evaluation can be repeated. This calculation unit TC performs evaluation until the user obtains a satisfactory result.

  If the user is satisfied with the evaluation result, the transmission / reception unit TI transmits the evaluation result toward the server S (S3g). The server S receives this evaluation result at the transceiver unit SI (S3h). The calculation unit SC of the server S determines the evaluation result based on the data related to the evaluation criteria stored in the recording unit SH (S3i). The determination result is transmitted toward the terminal T by the transmission / reception unit SI (S3j). The transmission / reception unit TI of the terminal T receives this determination result (S3k). This support method may be configured to give points to the user according to the determination result. In this case, this point grant notification is transmitted toward the terminal T together with the determination result. This point can be used for purchasing parts and cars.

  FIG. 6 shows a work procedure for car rental (STEP 4). In this lending process (STEP 4), the user inputs lending information using the input unit TK in order to actually use the car. The transmission / reception unit TI transmits the loan information to the server S (S4a). The server S receives the loan information at the transmission / reception unit SI (S4b). The computing unit SC determines whether or not the loan is appropriate based on the loan information (S4c). The transmission / reception unit SI transmits this determination result toward the terminal T (S4d). The terminal T receives this determination result at the transmission / reception unit TI (S4e). The user looks at the determination result displayed on the display unit TD of the terminal T, and considers acceptance of the determination result. When the user wishes to request reconsideration from the host, the loan information is input again by the input unit TK of the terminal T. This information is transmitted toward the server S by the transmission / reception unit TI (S4a).

  When the user accepts the determination result, the transmission / reception unit TI transmits the dispatch information to the server S (S4f). The server S receives this dispatch information at the transceiver unit SI (S4g). The calculation unit SC of the server S arranges for vehicle dispatch (S4h). When the arrangement is completed, the transmission / reception unit SI transmits completion information toward the terminal T (S4i). The transmission / reception unit TI of the terminal T receives the completion information (S4j). In this way, the user obtains a car. According to this support method, the user can actually obtain a vehicle experienced in the virtual society and experience the performance of the vehicle in the real society.

  FIG. 7 shows a work procedure for ordering a vehicle (STEP 5). In this ordering step (STEP 5), the user inputs information for purchasing a car using the input unit TK. The transmission / reception unit TI transmits purchase information to the server S (S5a). The server S receives this purchase information at the transmission / reception unit SI (S5b). The calculation unit SC calculates the price of the car based on the purchase information (S5c). In this calculation, the user's points are also taken into account. The transceiver unit SI transmits the calculated price information toward the terminal T (S5d). The terminal T receives this price information at the transmission / reception unit TI (S5e). The user looks at the price information displayed on the display unit TD of the terminal T and considers the acceptance of the price information. When the user wants to request reconsideration from the host, purchase information is input again by the input unit TK of the terminal T. This information is transmitted toward the server S by the transmission / reception unit TI (S5a).

  When the user accepts the price information, the transmission / reception unit TI transmits information for settlement to the server S (S5f). The server S receives the payment information at the transmission / reception unit SI (S5g). The computing unit SC of the server S arranges an order for a car (S5h). When the arrangement is completed, the transmission / reception unit SI transmits the ordering information toward the terminal T (S5i). The transmission / reception unit TI of the terminal T receives the order information (S5j). According to this support method, the user can actually purchase a car experienced in a virtual society.

  In this ordering step (STEP 5), parts used for manufacturing the modified car may be ordered. In this case, the user inputs information for purchasing a part using the input unit TK. The transmission / reception unit TI transmits purchase information to the server S (S5a). The server S receives this purchase information at the transmission / reception unit SI (S5b). The computing unit SC calculates the price of the part based on the purchase information (S5c). In this calculation, the user's points are also taken into account. The transceiver unit SI transmits the calculated price information toward the terminal T (S5d). The terminal T receives this price information at the transmission / reception unit TI (S5e). The user looks at the price information displayed on the display unit TD of the terminal T and considers the acceptance of the price information.

  When the user accepts the price information, the transmission / reception unit TI transmits information for settlement to the server S (S5f). The server S receives the payment information at the transmission / reception unit SI (S5g). The calculation unit SC of the server S arranges an order for parts (S5h). When the arrangement is completed, the transmission / reception unit SI transmits the ordering information toward the terminal T (S5i). The transmission / reception unit TI of the terminal T receives the order information (S5j). According to this support method, the user can actually purchase the parts used in the car experienced in the virtual society.

  As described above, in this support method, the remodeling process (STEP 2) provides the user with a simulated experience of obtaining parts and remodeling a car in a shop installed in a virtual society. The evaluation process (STEP 3) provides the user with a simulated experience of running the modified vehicle on a circuit course provided in a virtual society. According to this support method, the user can actually purchase a part or a car after trying a number of parts in a virtual society.

  This support method is implemented based on the system 2 in which the server S and the terminal T are connected via the Internet 4. Many people can participate in this support method. According to this support method, it is easy to capture potential consumers. Moreover, according to this support method, in the virtual society, the effect of changing the parts can be experienced in the same way as in the real world. The simulated experience can increase users' willingness to purchase. This support method can sufficiently motivate a large number of potential consumers for purchase. This support method can contribute to the development of consumer groups.

  Each of FIGS. 8 and 9 shows a flowchart showing work procedures of some processes included in a support method for purchasing a car or a part according to another embodiment of the present invention. This support method is implemented based on a system including a server S on a host side and a terminal T on a user side that are connected to be able to communicate with each other. The server S and the terminal T are connected via the Internet.

  The server S has the same configuration as the server S shown in FIG. The server S includes a transmission / reception unit SI, a recording unit SH, a display unit SD, a calculation unit SC, and an input unit SK. In this support method, the calculation unit SC includes a specifying unit that specifies data based on information transmitted from the terminal T on the user side, a processing unit that processes the specified data, and an evaluation unit that evaluates the processed data. And determining means for determining the evaluation result.

  The terminal T has the same configuration as the terminal shown in FIG. The terminal T includes a transmission / reception unit TI, a display unit TD, a calculation unit TC, a recording unit TH, and an input unit TK.

  Although not shown in the figure, this support method is similar to the support method described above, in which the user information is registered (STEP 1), the base car is remodeled (STEP 2), the remodeled car is evaluated (STEP 3), It includes a lending process (STEP 4) and a car ordering process (STEP 5). Except for the step of remodeling the base vehicle (STEP 2) and the step of evaluating the remodeled vehicle (STEP 3), the operation procedure is substantially the same as the above-described support method.

  FIG. 8 shows a work procedure for the step (STEP 2) of remodeling the base car provided by the registration of user information (STEP 1). In the remodeling step (STEP 2), the part specifying information is input by the input unit TK of the terminal T. The transmission / reception unit TI transmits this component specifying information toward the server S (S2a). The server S receives this component specifying information in the transmission / reception unit SI (S2b). The calculation unit SC of the server S specifies a component that matches this information from the data stored in the recording unit SH (S2c). In other words, the calculation unit SC specifies a component that can be used in place of a genuine component based on the information transmitted from the terminal T. The transmission / reception unit SI transmits the specified component information toward the terminal T (S2d). The terminal T receives this component information at the transmission / reception unit TI (S2e). The user looks at the component information displayed on the display unit TD of the terminal T and considers the acceptance of the component information. When the user accepts the part information, the data regarding the part is stored in the recording unit SH of the server S. When the user decides to examine another part, the information for specifying the part desired to be replaced is input again by the input unit TK of the terminal T. This information is transmitted toward the server S by the transmission / reception unit TI (S2a).

  In this remodeling step (STEP 2), when the user accepts the part information, the transmission / reception unit TI transmits remodeling start information to the server S (S2f). The server S receives the remodeling start information at the transmission / reception unit SI (S2g). As a result, the calculation unit SC of the server S uses the processing means to recombine the genuine parts of the base vehicle with the specified parts described above. As this processing means, a three-dimensional CAD system is exemplified. This recombination creates a modified car from the base car. In this support method, the base vehicle is modified by the calculation unit SC (S2h). Further, the calculation unit SC determines whether the modification is appropriate (S2i). In this determination (S2i), whether or not production is possible, whether or not laws and regulations are applied, and the like are examined, and whether or not remodeling is appropriate is determined. The determination result is transmitted toward the terminal T by the transmission / reception unit SI (S2j). The transmission / reception unit TI of the terminal T receives this determination result (S2k). When a determination result indicating that the modification is impossible is obtained, the user again inputs information for specifying a part to be replaced by the input unit TK of the terminal T. The transmission / reception unit TI transmits this component specifying information toward the server S (S2a). When a determination result indicating that the modification is possible is obtained, information on the modified vehicle is stored in the recording unit TH.

  This remodeling process (STEP 2) can provide a user with a simulated experience of obtaining parts and remodeling a car in a shop installed in a virtual society. According to this support method, the user can experience the remodeling of the vehicle executed in the real world in the virtual world.

  FIG. 9 shows a work procedure for evaluation of a modified vehicle (STEP 3) in this support method. In this evaluation step (STEP 3), the user inputs field specifying information using the input unit TK. The transmission / reception unit TI transmits field specifying information toward the server S (S3a). The server S receives this field specifying information in the transmission / reception unit SI (S3b). Thereby, the server S obtains the field specifying information. The calculation unit SC identifies a field that matches this information from the data stored in the recording unit SH (S3c). In this support method, the computing unit SC can specify a field that can be used for evaluation based on information transmitted from the terminal T. The transmission / reception unit SI transmits the information of the specified field toward the terminal T (S3d). The terminal T receives this field information at the transmission / reception unit TI (S3e). The user looks at the field information displayed on the display unit TD of the terminal T and considers acceptance of the field information. When the user decides to examine another field, information for specifying the field desired to be evaluated is input again by the input unit TK of the terminal T. This information is transmitted toward the server S by the transmission / reception unit TI (S3a).

  In this evaluation step (STEP 3), when the user receives the field information, the user inputs information for starting the evaluation using the input unit TK. The transmission / reception unit TI transmits the evaluation start information toward the server S (S3f). The server S receives this evaluation start information in the transmission / reception unit SI (S3g). The calculation unit SC evaluates the modified vehicle in the specified field (S3h). In this support method, the modified vehicle is evaluated in the server S. In this evaluation, the calculation unit SC reproduces the traveling of the vehicle using the evaluation means. As this evaluation means, a program for reproducing the running of the car is exemplified. In this reproduction, the component data stored in the recording unit SH is used. If the replaced part is a tire, this data includes the longitudinal spring, lateral spring, cornering power, cornering force, rolling resistance and mass of the tire. In this evaluation step (STEP 3), the traveling of the vehicle is reproduced based on these data.

  This evaluation process (STEP 3) can provide a user with a simulated experience of running a modified car on a circuit course provided in a virtual society. Thereby, the user can confirm the effect of the parts used for remodeling in a virtual society. According to this support method, the user can experience the evaluation of the vehicle executed in the real society in the virtual society.

  In this evaluation step (STEP 3), the transmission / reception unit SI transmits the evaluation result toward the terminal T (S3i). The terminal T receives the evaluation result at the transmission / reception unit TI (S3j). If the user is dissatisfied with the evaluation result, the information for starting the evaluation is input again by the input unit TK of the terminal T. This information is transmitted toward the server S by the transmission / reception unit TI (S3f). With this support method, evaluation can be repeated. The calculation unit SC performs evaluation until the user obtains a satisfactory evaluation result.

  If the user is satisfied with the evaluation result, the transmitting / receiving unit TI transmits information for starting the determination of the evaluation result toward the server S (S3k). The server S receives this evaluation result at the transceiver unit SI (S3l). The calculation unit SC of the server S determines the evaluation result based on the data related to the evaluation criteria of the evaluation result stored in the recording unit SH (S3m). The determination result is transmitted toward the terminal T by the transmission / reception unit SI (S3n). The transmission / reception unit TI of the terminal T receives this determination result (S3o).

  In this support method, the user can actually obtain a vehicle experienced in the virtual society by receiving a car rental (STEP 4) from the host and experience the performance of the vehicle in the real society. Furthermore, in this support method, the user can actually purchase the car experienced in the virtual society or the parts used in the car by placing an order for the car experienced or the parts used in the car (STEP 5). You can also.

  As described above, in this support method, the remodeling process (STEP 2) provides the user with a simulated experience of obtaining parts and remodeling a car in a shop installed in a virtual society. The evaluation process (STEP 3) provides the user with a simulated experience of running the modified vehicle on a circuit course provided in a virtual society. According to this support method, the user can actually purchase a part or a car after trying a number of parts in a virtual society.

  This support method is implemented based on a system in which the server S and the terminal T are connected via the Internet. Many people can participate in this support method. According to this support method, it is easy to capture potential consumers. Moreover, according to this support method, in the virtual society, the effect of changing the parts can be experienced in the same way as in the real world. The simulated experience can increase users' willingness to purchase. This support method can sufficiently motivate a large number of potential consumers for purchase. This support method can contribute to the development of consumer groups.

  FIG. 10 shows a flowchart of operations performed in the support method for purchasing a car or a part according to another embodiment of the present invention. This support method includes a step of registering user information (STEP 1), a step of remodeling a base vehicle (STEP 2), a step of evaluating a remodeled vehicle (STEP 3), and a step of ordering a car or a part (STEP 5).

  This support method is implemented based on a system including a server S on a host side and a terminal T on a user side that are connected to be able to communicate with each other. The server S and the terminal T are connected via the Internet.

  The server S has the same configuration as the server S shown in FIG. The server S includes a transmission / reception unit SI, a recording unit SH, a display unit SD, a calculation unit SC, and an input unit SK.

  The terminal T has the same configuration as the terminal shown in FIG. The terminal T includes a transmission / reception unit TI, a display unit TD, a calculation unit TC, a recording unit TH, and an input unit TK.

  In this support method, in the registration step (STEP 1), work equivalent to the work shown in FIG. 3 is performed. In this registration step (STEP 1), information on the user who uses this support method is registered. As a result, the user obtains the access right for this support method. In this registration step (STEP 1), the user obtains the base vehicle data by providing his / her own information to the host.

  In this support method, in the remodeling step (STEP 2), work equivalent to the work shown in FIG. 8 is performed. Although not shown, in this remodeling step (STEP 2), the part specifying information is input by the input unit TK of the terminal T. The transmission / reception unit TI transmits the component specifying information toward the server S. The server S receives this component specifying information in the transmission / reception unit SI. Based on the data stored in the recording unit SH, the calculation unit SC of the server S specifies a component that can be used in place of the genuine component based on the information transmitted from the terminal T. The transmission / reception unit SI transmits the specified component information toward the terminal T. The terminal T receives this component information at the transmission / reception unit TI. The user looks at the component information displayed on the display unit TD of the terminal T and considers the acceptance of the component information. When the user accepts the part information, the data regarding the part is stored in the recording unit SH of the server S. When the user decides to examine another part, the information for specifying the part desired to be replaced is input again by the input unit TK of the terminal T. This information is transmitted toward the server S by the transmission / reception unit TI.

  In the remodeling step (STEP 2), when the user accepts the part information, the transmission / reception unit TI transmits the remodeling start information toward the server S. The server S receives the remodeling start information at the transmission / reception unit SI. As a result, the calculation unit SC of the server S uses the processing means to recombine the genuine parts of the base vehicle with the specified parts described above. As this processing means, a three-dimensional CAD system is exemplified. This recombination creates a modified car from the base car. In this support method, the base vehicle is modified by the calculation unit SC. Further, the calculation unit SC determines whether the modification is appropriate. In this determination, whether or not production is possible and whether or not laws and regulations are applied are examined, and whether or not remodeling is appropriate is determined. This determination result is transmitted toward the terminal T by the transmission / reception unit SI. The transmission / reception unit TI of the terminal T receives this determination result. When a determination result indicating that the modification is impossible is obtained, the user again inputs information for specifying a part to be replaced by the input unit TK of the terminal T. The transmission / reception unit TI transmits the component specifying information toward the server S. When a determination result indicating that the modification is possible is obtained, information on the modified vehicle is stored in the recording unit TH.

  This remodeling process (STEP 2) can provide a user with a simulated experience of obtaining parts and remodeling a car in a shop installed in a virtual society. According to this support method, the user can experience the remodeling of the vehicle executed in the real world in the virtual world.

  In this support method, in the evaluation step (STEP 3), an operation equivalent to the operation shown in FIG. 9 is performed. Although not shown, in this evaluation step (STEP 3), the user inputs field specifying information using the input unit TK. The transmission / reception unit TI transmits the field specifying information toward the server S. The server S receives this field specifying information in the transmission / reception unit SI. Thereby, the server S obtains the field specifying information. The calculation unit SC identifies a field that matches this information from the data stored in the recording unit SH. In this support method, the computing unit SC can specify a field that can be used for evaluation based on information transmitted from the terminal T. The transmission / reception unit SI transmits information on the specified field toward the terminal T. The terminal T receives this field information at the transmission / reception unit TI. The user looks at the field information displayed on the display unit TD of the terminal T and considers acceptance of the field information. When the user decides to examine another field, information for specifying the field desired to be evaluated is input again by the input unit TK of the terminal T. This information is transmitted toward the server S by the transmission / reception unit TI.

  In this evaluation step (STEP 3), when the user receives the field information, the user inputs information for starting the evaluation using the input unit TK. The transmission / reception unit TI transmits the evaluation start information toward the server S. The server S receives this evaluation start information in the transmission / reception unit SI. The calculation unit SC evaluates the modified car in the specified field. In this support method, the modified vehicle is evaluated in the server S. In this evaluation, the calculation unit SC reproduces the traveling of the vehicle using the evaluation means. As this evaluation means, a program for reproducing the running of the car is exemplified. In this reproduction, the component data stored in the recording unit SH is used. If the replaced part is a tire, this data includes the longitudinal spring, lateral spring, cornering power, cornering force, rolling resistance and mass of the tire. In this evaluation step (STEP 3), the traveling of the vehicle is reproduced based on these data.

  This evaluation process (STEP 3) can provide a user with a simulated experience of running a modified car on a circuit course provided in a virtual society. Thereby, the user can confirm the effect of the parts used for remodeling in a virtual society. According to this support method, the user can experience the evaluation of the vehicle executed in the real society in the virtual society.

  In this evaluation step (STEP 3), the transmission / reception unit SI transmits the evaluation result toward the terminal T. The terminal T receives the evaluation result at the transmission / reception unit TI. If the user is dissatisfied with the evaluation result, the information for starting the evaluation is input again by the input unit TK of the terminal T. This information is transmitted toward the server S by the transmission / reception unit TI. With this support method, evaluation can be repeated. The calculation unit SC performs evaluation until the user obtains a satisfactory evaluation result.

  If the user is satisfied with the evaluation result, the transmission / reception unit TI transmits information for starting determination of the evaluation result toward the server S. The server S receives the evaluation result at the transmission / reception unit SI. The calculation unit SC of the server S determines the evaluation result based on the data related to the evaluation criteria of the evaluation result stored in the recording unit SH. The determination result is transmitted toward the terminal T by the transmission / reception unit SI. The transmission / reception unit TI of the terminal T receives this determination result. This support method may be configured to give points to the user according to the determination result. In this case, this point grant notification is transmitted toward the terminal T together with the determination result. This point is used for purchasing parts and cars.

  In this support method, a user who is dissatisfied with the determination result can restart the remodeling step (STEP 2) by inputting another part specifying information through the input unit TK of the terminal T. In this support method, the base car is repeatedly modified until the user obtains a satisfactory evaluation result. In addition, this support method may be configured such that a user who is dissatisfied with the above-described evaluation result can restart the remodeling step (STEP 2) by inputting another part specifying information through the input unit TK of the terminal T. .

  In this support method, the ordering process (STEP 4) is performed in the same way as the work shown in FIG. According to this support method, the user can place an order for a car or a part (STEP 4) without going through the car lending process.

  Although not shown, in the ordering process (STEP 4), the user inputs information for purchasing a car or a part using the input unit TK. The transmission / reception unit TI transmits purchase information toward the server S. The server S receives this purchase information at the transceiver unit SI. The calculation unit SC calculates the price of the car or part based on the purchase information. In this calculation, the user's points are also taken into account. The transmission / reception unit SI transmits the calculated price information toward the terminal T. The terminal T receives this price information at the transmission / reception unit TI. The user looks at the price information displayed on the display unit TD of the terminal T and considers the acceptance of the price information. When the user wants to request reconsideration from the host, purchase information is input again by the input unit TK of the terminal T. This information is transmitted toward the server S by the transmission / reception unit TI.

  When the user accepts the price information, the transmission / reception unit TI transmits information for settlement to the server S. The server S receives this settlement information at the transmission / reception unit SI. The calculation unit SC of the server S arranges orders for cars or parts. When the arrangement is completed, the transmission / reception unit SI transmits the ordering information toward the terminal T. The transmission / reception unit TI of the terminal T receives the ordering information. According to this support method, the user can actually purchase a car experienced in a virtual society or a part used in the car.

  In this support method, the remodeling step (STEP 2) and the evaluation step (STEP 3) may be performed at the terminal T on the user side. In this case, the server S is provided with a system including the remodeling step (STEP 2) and the evaluation step (STEP 3) to the user who has obtained the right to access the support method in the registration step (STEP 1).

  As described above, in this support method, the remodeling process (STEP 2) provides the user with a simulated experience of obtaining parts and remodeling a car in a shop installed in a virtual society. The evaluation process (STEP 3) provides the user with a simulated experience of running the modified vehicle on a circuit course provided in a virtual society. According to this support method, the user can actually purchase a part or a car after trying a number of parts in a virtual society.

  This support method is implemented based on a system in which the server S and the terminal T are connected via the Internet. Many people can participate in this support method. According to this support method, it is easy to capture potential consumers. Moreover, according to this support method, in the virtual society, the effect of changing the parts can be experienced in the same way as in the real world. The simulated experience can increase users' willingness to purchase. This support method can sufficiently motivate a large number of potential consumers for purchase. This support method can contribute to the development of consumer groups.

  The support method described above can also be applied to purchase of various vehicles.

2 ... System 4 ... Internet

Claims (2)

In a system including a host-side server S and a user-side terminal T that are connected so as to be able to communicate with each other,
A step in which the terminal T transmits to the server S information relating to a part that is scheduled to be used instead of a genuine part of the base car;
The server S specifies a part that can be used in place of the genuine part according to information on the part, and
The terminal T recombines the genuine part with the specified part to produce a modified car from the base car;
The terminal T transmitting information of the modified car to the server S;
The server S determines the suitability of the modification based on the information of the modified vehicle;
The terminal T transmitting information about fields scheduled to be used for the evaluation of the modified vehicle;
The server S identifying a field that can be used for the evaluation of the modified vehicle according to information on the field;
A step the terminal T, in this particular fields, which have line evaluation of the modified vehicle and sends the results of this evaluation to the server S,
The server S determines the result of the evaluation, and gives the result of the determination, and a notification of point grant that is given according to the determination result and can be used for purchase of the part or purchase of the modified vehicle. Sending to T;
The terminal T transmitting the loan information of the modified car to the server S;
The server S determines whether or not to lend the modified car based on the lending information, and transmits the result of the determination to the terminal T;
The terminal T transmitting vehicle allocation information to the server S based on the determination result;
A support method for purchasing a vehicle or a part , wherein the server S includes a step of arranging a dispatch of the modified vehicle based on the dispatch information . In a system including a host-side server S and a user-side terminal T that are connected so as to be able to communicate with each other,
A step in which the terminal T transmits to the server S information relating to a part that is scheduled to be used instead of a genuine part of the base car;
The server S specifies a part that can be used in place of the genuine part according to information on the part, and
The server S comprises a step of replacing the original parts in the parts identified, to produce a modified vehicle from the base model, to determine the appropriateness of this modification,
The terminal T transmitting information about fields scheduled to be used for the evaluation of the modified vehicle;
The server S identifying a field that can be used for the evaluation of the modified vehicle according to information on the field;
The server S is, have line evaluation of the above Symbol funny car Te this specified field smell, to determine the result of this evaluation, the result of this determination, the result of this determination is granted in accordance with the, of the component purchase or A step of transmitting to the terminal T a notice of giving points that can be used for purchasing the modified vehicle ;
The terminal T transmitting the loan information of the modified car to the server S;
The server S determines whether or not to lend the modified car based on the lending information, and transmits the result of the determination to the terminal T;
The terminal T transmitting vehicle allocation information to the server S based on the determination result;
A support method for purchasing a vehicle or a part , wherein the server S includes a step of arranging a dispatch of the modified vehicle based on the dispatch information .

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