JP7187526B2 - Information processing device, information processing method and information processing program - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to an information processing device, an information processing method, and an information processing program.

Conventionally, considering the possibility that there will be no vacant seats in the period between the provision of information on stores with vacant seats and the time the user (user) visits the store, Techniques are known for providing search results based on relationships with.

Japanese Patent No. 6419263

However, the conventional technology has room for further improvement for providing information to users in a more appropriate manner.

The present application has been made in view of the above, and aims to provide information to users in a more appropriate manner.

The information processing apparatus according to the present application includes an acquisition unit that acquires setting information including a congestion tolerance level indicating a user-acceptable congestion situation and a desired reservation date and time, and a store specified based on the user's search. an estimating unit for estimating the most recent congestion situation including the reservation date and time, the congestion estimation result estimated by the estimating unit, and the congestion condition of the store based on matching with the setting information acquired by the acquiring unit. has a specifying unit that specifies a reservation date and time that satisfies the allowable range of the congestion tolerance, and a providing unit that provides information related to the reservation date and time specified by the specifying unit.

According to one aspect of the embodiment, there is an effect that information can be provided to the user in a more appropriate aspect.

FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of information processing according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of an information processing system according to the embodiment; FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of a terminal device according to the embodiment; FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of an information processing apparatus according to the embodiment; FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of a congestion estimation information storage unit according to the embodiment; 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a setting information storage unit according to the embodiment; FIG. FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating an example of information processing according to the embodiment. FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram for explaining information processing of the information processing system 1 according to Modification 1. As shown in FIG. FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram for explaining information processing of the information processing system 1 according to Modification 2. As shown in FIG. FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram for explaining information processing of the information processing system 1 according to Modification 2. As shown in FIG. FIG. 11 is a hardware configuration diagram showing an example of a computer that implements the functions of the information processing apparatus.

Embodiments for implementing an information processing apparatus, an information processing method, and an information processing program according to the present application (hereinafter referred to as "embodiments") will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. The information processing apparatus, information processing method, and information processing program according to the present application are not limited to this embodiment. Also, in each of the following embodiments, the same parts are denoted by the same reference numerals, and overlapping descriptions are omitted.

(embodiment)
[1. Example of information processing]
Conventionally, when a user searches for a store (for example, a restaurant-related store, a beauty-related store, a medical-related store, etc.), if the store is crowded, the user's options may be limited. It is conceivable that the store side may want to secure a method of promoting store visits according to the congestion situation (congestion level) in the store in the new lifestyle. For example, it is conceivable that the store side does not promote store visits when it is crowded, but wants to actively promote store visits when it is not crowded.

In the following embodiments, the case where the user searches for shops will be described, but the search is not limited to shops, and any target (for example, facilities) may be searched. In addition, in the following embodiments, when a user wants to make a reservation for a store, the user inputs the congestion state (hereafter referred to as “congestion tolerance” as appropriate) and the distance to the UI. , make a reservation for the store you want to go to first (hereinafter referred to as "destination" as appropriate), but if the congestion level is high, alternative candidates (hereinafter referred to as , shall be referred to as “alternative spots”). Note that the congestion tolerance is the user's tolerance for the congestion situation of the store. Also, an alternative spot is an alternative store of a destination that can be reserved. As a result, the store side can avoid damage to the image due to congestion and damage to User Express.

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of information processing of an information processing system 1 according to an embodiment. In FIG. 1, it is assumed that the user U11 sets search parameters on the screen UI11 displayed on the terminal device 10 . Here, the screen UI11 includes a congestion tolerance setting UT11 and a search target area (geofence) setting UT12.

The setting UT 11 includes “low”, “medium”, and “high” as indicators of congestion tolerance. "Low" is an index set when congestion tolerance is low and congestion is desired as little as possible. For example, it is an index set when the user U11 wants to go to a store that does not require waiting even if it deviates somewhat from the contents of the search. On the other hand, "high" is an index that is set when congestion tolerance is high and congestion is not a concern. For example, it is an index set when the user U11 wants to go to a store close to the contents of the search even if it waits for a while. FIG. 1 shows a case where the user U11 sets the congestion tolerance to "medium" by operating the scroll ST11. The information processing apparatus 100 identifies alternative spots within the allowable range of the congestion tolerance determined by setting the setting UT 11 as an upper limit.

The setting UT12 includes the distance from a predetermined reference as an index of the size of the search target area. "1", "200", and "400" of the setting UT12 are marks that quantify the size of the distance, and indicate that the size of the target area is, for example, 1 m, 200 m, and 400 m. FIG. 1 shows a case where the user U11 operates the scroll ST12 to set the size of the target area to less than 200. FIG. The information processing apparatus 100 identifies an alternative spot within the area of the target area determined by setting the setting UT12.

In FIG. 1, the predetermined criterion for the region of interest is the destination. The user U11 changes the distance from the destination for determining the size of the target area by adjusting the scroll ST12 of the setting UT12. Therefore, the target area has a circular shape centered on the destination.

The terminal device 10 transmits setting information set for the screen UI11 to the information processing device 100 together with input information input for searching for a store based on the operation of the user U11 (step S101).

Upon receiving the information from the terminal device 10, the information processing device 100 identifies the destination based on the information input by the user U11 (step S102). For example, the information processing apparatus 100 allows the user U11 to select from a preset list (for example, a list of recommendations to the user, a list set as a favorite, a list based on past search logs). The destination is identified by comparing the information obtained from the search with the information included in the search results. Further, for example, the information processing apparatus 100 may specify a destination by having the user U11 select from map information displayed on the screen as a search result. As a result, the user U11 can make a reservation for a pinpoint store in line with the search intention. It should be noted that the method of specifying the destination is not limited to these methods, and other existing techniques may be appropriately used to specify the destination.

The information processing apparatus 100 estimates the congestion status of the destination (step S103). For example, the information processing apparatus 100 can provide information provided by interlocking with a reservation system for reserving a searched shop, information provided by a self-report on the shop side, information provided by crowdsourcing, and information searched in real time. Based on information based on trends from search history, or information based on insights from people flow analysis (e.g., BLE (Bluetooth (registered trademark) Low Energy), UWB (Ultra Wide Band), WiFi sniffing, ToF sensor) to estimate the congestion status of the destination. It should be noted that the estimation of congestion status is not limited to these methods, and other existing techniques may be appropriately used to estimate the congestion status.

The information processing apparatus 100 identifies an alternative spot for the destination when the congestion state of the destination exceeds a predetermined threshold preset by the user U11 as the congestion tolerance (“medium” congestion tolerance in the example of FIG. 1). (step S104). For example, the information processing apparatus 100 compares the congestion state estimated in step S103 with the congestion tolerance included in the setting information acquired in step S101 to determine whether or not the congestion state exceeds a predetermined threshold. If it is determined, an alternative spot for the destination is specified. Note that in FIG. 1, the information processing apparatus 100 determines that the predetermined threshold is exceeded. That is, the information processing apparatus 100 determines that the congestion level is high. Further, the information processing apparatus 100 compares the congestion state and the congestion tolerance by converting them into comparable scores, for example.

The information processing apparatus 100 identifies, as an alternative spot, the shop that best satisfies the setting UT11 and the setting UT12 among the shops that satisfy the setting UT11 and the setting UT12. For example, the information processing apparatus 100 calculates a score for each store by scoring the degree to which the setting UT11 is satisfied and the degree to which the setting UT12 is satisfied, and identifies the alternative spot. Further, for example, the information processing apparatus 100 may calculate the score for each store by weighting the setting UT11 and the setting UT12, and identify the substitute spot with the highest score.

The information processing device 100 transmits to the terminal device 10 control information for displaying information about the specified alternative spot on the search result (step S105). Then, the terminal device 10 displays information regarding the alternative spots. For example, the terminal device 10 displays a screen UI12.

Here, the screen UI12 displays store information of the destination TP11, store information of the alternative spots SP (11 to 13), and area information of the target area TR11. Although the screen UI 12 shows a case where three stores are displayed as alternative spots, the number of alternative spots is not particularly limited. As a result, the alternative spot SPs (11 to 13) can improve new reservation acquisition.

The location information of the store is displayed as the store information of the destination TP11. Further, reservation information for reserving the destination TP11 is displayed as the shop information of the destination TP11. The congestion status of the destination TP11 may be indicated by displaying the store information of the destination TP11 in a predetermined manner. For example, the congestion status of destination TP11 may be indicated by adding color information such as "green", "yellow", and "red" to the store information of destination TP11. For example, when the destination TP11 is vacant, the store information of the destination TP11 may be displayed with the color information of "green" added. Further, for example, when the destination TP11 is crowded, the store information of the destination TP11 may be displayed with the color information of "red" added. As a result, the destination TP11 can avoid missing a reservation by presenting the congestion status.

Similarly, the location information of each store is displayed as the store information of the alternative spots SP (11 to 13). Reservation information for reserving the alternative spots SP (11 to 13) is also displayed as shop information of the alternative spots SP (11 to 13). The shop information of the alternative spots SP (11 to 13) are displayed on the search results as options for the user U11. The user U11 makes a reservation by selecting store information from the alternative spots SP (11 to 13). This allows the user U11 to select the alternative spots SP (11 to 13) as an option, thereby avoiding the risk of going to a crowded store.

In the above-described embodiment, the information processing apparatus 100 may specify an alternative spot in consideration of not only the distance but also the congestion level on the route (route, moving route) to the alternative spot. For example, even if the distance is within the allowable range, the route to the alternative spot may be highly congested. The information processing device 100 weights the distance to the alternative spot and the congestion level on the route to the alternative spot, thereby calculating the overall congestion level including the travel cost to reach the alternative spot. good too. In this case, the setting UT11 set on the screen UI11 is the congestion tolerance for the overall congestion level. The information processing apparatus 100 determines by comparing the congestion tolerance set by the setting UT 11 and the overall congestion level.

In the above embodiment, the information processing apparatus 100 may specify alternative spots and present candidates in real time. For example, it is conceivable that the destination becomes crowded while moving toward the destination. The information processing device 100 may estimate in real time the congestion status of stores near the route and present alternative spots.

In the above embodiment, the information processing apparatus 100 may not present alternative spots when the congestion level of the destination is within the allowable range.

In the above embodiment, the user U11 inputs the congestion tolerance and distance to the UI when he/she wants to reserve a store. Specifically, the case where the user U11 sets the congestion tolerance in the setting UT11 and sets the distance in the setting UT12 is shown. Not limited to this example, congestion tolerance and distance may be set automatically. The congestion tolerance may be automatically set, for example, by calculating a threshold based on the congestion level of stores that the user U11 frequently visits. For example, the congestion tolerance may be set based on the average value of the congestion level of stores visited by the user U11 during a predetermined period. Also, the distance may be automatically set by calculating a threshold based on the distance of the store frequented by the user U11, for example. For example, the distance may be set to an average value of distances of stores visited by the user U11 during a predetermined period. In this way, the congestion tolerance and distance may be automatically set from the history of behavior information of user U11. A reservation date and time (setting UT23), which will be described later, may also be set automatically.

[2. Configuration of information processing system]
The information processing system 1 shown in FIG. 2 will be described. As shown in FIG. 2 , the information processing system 1 includes a terminal device 10 and an information processing device 100 . The terminal device 10 and the information processing device 100 are communicably connected by wire or wirelessly via a predetermined communication network (network N). FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a configuration example of the information processing system 1 according to the embodiment. Note that the information processing system 1 shown in FIG. 2 may include a plurality of terminal devices 10 and a plurality of information processing apparatuses 100 .

The terminal device 10 is an information processing device used by a user. The terminal device 10 may be any device as long as it can implement the processing in the embodiments. Also, the terminal device 10 may be a device such as a smart phone, a tablet terminal, a notebook PC, a desktop PC, a mobile phone, or a PDA. The example shown in FIG. 1 shows a case where the terminal device 10 is a smart phone.

The information processing device 100 is used to identify alternative spots based on the congestion status of the user's destination. The information processing apparatus 100 is, for example, an information processing apparatus such as a PC or a WS (Work Station), and performs processing based on information transmitted via the network N from the terminal device 10 or the like.

Although FIG. 2 illustrates a case where the terminal device 10 and the information processing device 100 are separate devices, the terminal device 10 and the information processing device 100 may be integrated.

[3. Configuration of terminal device]
Next, the configuration of the terminal device 10 according to the embodiment will be described using FIG. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a configuration example of the terminal device 10 according to the embodiment. As shown in FIG. 3 , the terminal device 10 has a communication section 11 , an input section 12 , an output section 13 and a control section 14 .

(Communication unit 11)
The communication unit 11 is realized by, for example, a NIC (Network Interface Card) or the like. The communication unit 11 is connected to a predetermined network N by wire or wirelessly, and transmits and receives information to and from the information processing apparatus 100 and the like via the predetermined network N.

(Input unit 12)
The input unit 12 receives various operations from the user. In the example shown in FIG. 1, various operations from the user U11 are accepted. For example, the input unit 12 may receive various operations from the user through the display surface using a touch panel function. The input unit 12 may also receive various operations from buttons provided on the terminal device 10 or from a keyboard or mouse connected to the terminal device 10 .

(Output unit 13)
The output unit 13 is a display screen of a tablet terminal realized by, for example, a liquid crystal display or an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display, and is a display device for displaying various information. For example, the output unit 13 displays advertisements acquired from the information processing device 100 .

(control unit 14)
The control unit 14 is, for example, a controller, and a CPU (Central Processing Unit), an MPU (Micro Processing Unit), or the like stores various programs stored in a storage device inside the terminal device 10 into a RAM (Random Access Memory). ) as a work area. For example, the various programs include application programs installed in the terminal device 10 . For example, the various programs include an application program that displays information about alternative spots on search results. Also, the control unit 14 is implemented by an integrated circuit such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array).

As shown in FIG. 3, the control unit 14 has a receiving unit 141 and a transmitting unit 142, and implements or executes the information processing operation described below.

(Receiver 141)
The receiving unit 141 receives various information. The receiving unit 141 receives various information from an external information processing device. The receiving unit 141 receives various information from other information processing devices such as the information processing device 100 . For example, the receiving unit 141 receives control information for displaying alternative spots.

(Sending unit 142)
The transmission unit 142 transmits various types of information to an external information processing device. The transmission unit 142 transmits various types of information to other information processing devices such as the information processing device 100 . For example, the transmission unit 142 transmits input information input by the user to search for a store.

[4. Configuration of Information Processing Device]
Next, the configuration of the information processing apparatus 100 according to the embodiment will be described using FIG. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of the information processing apparatus 100 according to the embodiment. As shown in FIG. 4, the information processing apparatus 100 has a communication section 110, a storage section 120, and a control section . The information processing apparatus 100 has an input unit (for example, a keyboard, a mouse, etc.) that receives various operations from the administrator of the information processing apparatus 100, and a display unit (for example, a liquid crystal display, etc.) for displaying various information. You may

(Communication unit 110)
The communication unit 110 is implemented by, for example, a NIC. The communication unit 110 is connected to the network N by wire or wirelessly, and transmits and receives information to and from the terminal device 10 and the like via the network N.

(storage unit 120)
The storage unit 120 is realized by, for example, a semiconductor memory device such as a RAM or flash memory, or a storage device such as a hard disk or an optical disk. As shown in FIG. 4 , the storage unit 120 has a congestion estimation information storage unit 121 and a setting information storage unit 122 .

The congestion estimation information storage unit 121 stores information that serves as a basis for estimating the congestion status of the store. Here, FIG. 5 shows an example of the congestion estimation information storage unit 121 according to the embodiment. As shown in FIG. 5, the estimated congestion information storage unit 121 has items such as "estimated congestion ID", "store ID", "store information", "date and time", and "estimated congestion information".

"Congestion estimation ID" indicates identification information for identifying congestion estimation information. "Store ID" indicates identification information for identifying a store. "Store information" indicates store information. In the example shown in FIG. 5, conceptual information such as "store information #11" and "store information #12" is stored in "store information", but in reality, the coordinates indicating the location of the store are stored. Information etc. are stored. "Date and time" indicates the date and time. "Congestion estimation information" indicates information that serves as a basis for estimating congestion conditions. In the example shown in FIG. 5, conceptual information such as "congestion estimation information #11" and "congestion estimation information #12" is stored in "congestion estimation information". and information provided by the store's self-report, etc. are stored.

That is, in FIG. 5, the store ID identified by the estimated congestion ID "KS11" is "TP11", the store information is "store information #11", the date and time is "November 14, 2020", An example in which the estimated congestion information is "estimated congestion information #11" is shown.

The setting information storage unit 122 stores user setting information. Here, FIG. 6 shows an example of the setting information storage unit 122 according to the embodiment. As shown in FIG. 6, the setting information storage unit 122 has items such as "setting ID", "user ID", "congestion tolerance", and "distance".

“Setting ID” indicates identification information for identifying setting information. "User ID" indicates identification information for identifying a user. "Congestion Tolerance" indicates the congestion tolerance. "Distance" indicates the distance of the search target area from a predetermined reference.

That is, FIG. 6 shows an example in which the user ID identified by the setting ID "US11" is "U11", the congestion tolerance is "medium", and the distance is "180 m".

(control unit 130)
The control unit 130 is a controller, and is realized by, for example, executing various programs stored in a storage device inside the information processing apparatus 100 using a RAM as a work area by a CPU, MPU, or the like. Also, the control unit 130 is a controller, and is implemented by an integrated circuit such as an ASIC or FPGA, for example.

As shown in FIG. 4, the control unit 130 includes an acquisition unit 131, an estimation unit 132, a determination unit 133, a specification unit 134, and a provision unit 135, and implements the information processing operation described below. or run. Note that the internal configuration of the control unit 130 is not limited to the configuration shown in FIG. 4, and may be another configuration as long as it performs information processing to be described later.

(Acquisition unit 131)
Acquisition unit 131 acquires various types of information. Acquisition unit 131 acquires various types of information from an external information processing device. The acquisition unit 131 acquires various types of information from other information processing devices such as the terminal device 10 .

Acquisition unit 131 acquires various types of information from storage unit 120 . The acquisition unit 131 acquires various types of information from the congestion estimation information storage unit 121 . The acquisition unit 131 also stores the acquired various information in the storage unit 120 . The acquisition unit 131 stores various information in the congestion estimation information storage unit 121 .

Acquisition unit 131 acquires input information input to search for a store. In addition, the acquisition unit 131 acquires setting information regarding congestion tolerance, a search target area, and the like.

(Estimation unit 132)
The estimation unit 132 estimates the congestion status of the store. For example, the estimation unit 132 uses information provided by interlocking with a reservation system, information provided by self-report on the store side, information provided by crowdsourcing, and information based on trends from search history searched in real time. , or by calculating the congestion level based on information based on insights from people flow analysis, to estimate the congestion status of the store.

The estimation unit 132 may calculate a congestion level as the congestion status of the store. Also, the estimation unit 132 may calculate a comprehensive congestion level based on the distance to the alternative spot and the congestion level on the route to the alternative spot. For example, the estimation unit 132 may weight the distance to the alternative spot and the congestion level on the route to the alternative spot, and multiply them to calculate the overall congestion level.

(Determination unit 133)
The determination unit 133 determines the congestion state estimated by the estimation unit 132 . For example, the determination unit 133 determines whether the congestion state estimated by the estimation unit 132 exceeds a predetermined threshold set as the congestion tolerance. Specifically, the determining unit 133 determines by comparing the congestion level calculated by the estimating unit 132 by converting the congestion tolerance into a predetermined score.

(Specifying unit 134)
The identifying unit 134 identifies the destination store. For example, the identifying unit 134 identifies the destination store by comparing a preset list with the user's search input information.

The specifying unit 134 specifies an alternative spot to be proposed as an alternative destination. For example, the identification unit 134 identifies an alternative spot whose congestion status satisfies a predetermined threshold set as congestion tolerance. For example, the identifying unit 134 identifies an alternative spot that satisfies a predetermined threshold preset by the user as congestion tolerance. Also, for example, the identifying unit 134 identifies alternative spots that satisfy a predetermined threshold automatically set based on user behavior information as congestion tolerance.

The identifying unit 134 identifies alternative spots within the same area as the destination. For example, the identifying unit 134 identifies an alternative spot within the search results whose destination is displayed. Further, the identifying unit 134 identifies alternative spots belonging to the same category as the destination. For example, the identifying unit 134 identifies alternative spots that belong to the same category as the destination so that categories such as eating and drinking, beauty, and medical care match.

The identifying unit 134 identifies alternative spots by changing the search target area so that the number of alternative spots that satisfy the congestion tolerance satisfies a predetermined condition. For example, when the number of alternative spots that satisfy the congestion tolerance is small, the specifying unit 134 expands the target area so that the number of alternative spots becomes a constant number. Further, for example, when the number of alternative spots satisfying the congestion tolerance is large, the specifying unit 134 reduces the target area so that the number of alternative spots becomes a constant number. The predetermined condition may be set in advance by the user, or may be set based on the relationship between the changed distance of the target area and the number of alternative spots.

(Providing unit 135)
The providing unit 135 provides information regarding the alternative spots specified by the specifying unit 134 . For example, the providing unit 135 provides control information for displaying reservation information of alternative spots. Also, for example, the providing unit 135 provides control information for displaying the congestion status of alternative spots in a predetermined manner.

[5. Information processing flow]
Next, the procedure of information processing by the information processing system 1 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 7 is a flow chart showing the procedure of information processing by the information processing system 1 according to the embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 7, the information processing apparatus 100 acquires search input information (step S201). The information processing apparatus 100 also identifies the destination (step S202). Then, the information processing apparatus 100 estimates the congestion status of the destination (step S203).

The information processing apparatus 100 determines whether the congestion status of the destination satisfies the congestion tolerance (step S204). When the information processing apparatus 100 determines that the congestion state of the destination satisfies the congestion tolerance (step S204; YES), the information processing ends. Further, when the information processing apparatus 100 determines that the congestion state of the destination does not satisfy the congestion tolerance (step S204; NO), the information processing apparatus 100 specifies an alternative spot (step S205).

[6. Modification]
The information processing system 1 according to the above-described embodiments may be implemented in various different forms other than the above-described embodiments. Therefore, other embodiments of the information processing system 1 will be described below.

(Modification 1: presentation of detour spots for route search)
In the above embodiment, the case where the information processing apparatus 100 specifies a substitute spot within a target area centered on the destination with the destination as a predetermined reference has been described. This is the case, for example, when the user searches for a destination from home, but it is also conceivable that the user has already arrived at a predetermined spot near the destination. Also, when searching for a route, if the user wants to know information about nearby stores (for example, the degree of congestion) while heading to the destination, it may be necessary to leave the original route search screen. To return to the search screen, it is necessary to search again, which may cause inconvenience.

Hereinafter, when the information processing apparatus 100 specifies a substitute spot within the area of the target area centered on each point on the route displayed at the time of route search, using each point on the route to the destination as a predetermined reference. processing will be described. More specifically, the information processing apparatus 100 will describe a process for specifying alternative spots that can be detoured (hereinafter referred to as “detour spots” as appropriate) on the route from the current location to the destination. In addition, description similar to the above-described embodiment will be omitted as appropriate.

FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram for explaining information processing of the information processing system 1 according to Modification 1. As shown in FIG. In step S105 of FIG. 1, the information processing apparatus 100 transmits to the terminal apparatus 10 control information for displaying information on the side trip spots SP (21 to 24) on the search results. Then, the terminal device 10 displays information about the side trip spots SP (21 to 24). For example, the terminal device 10 displays the screen UI22.

Here, on the screen UI22, store information of the destination TP21, which is the destination, store information of the detour spots SP (21 to 24), area information of the target area TR21, and position information of the current location PS11, which is the start point. is displayed. Note that the screen UI 22 shows a case where four shops are displayed as detour spots, but the number of detour spots is not particularly limited. Also, the start point is not limited to the user's current location, and may be set in any way.

In FIG. 8, the predetermined reference for the target region TR21 is each point on the route to the destination TP21. The user U11 changes the distance from each point on the route for determining the size of the target region TR21 by adjusting the scroll ST12 of the setting UT12. Therefore, the target region TR21 is centered at each point on the route.

In this way, the information processing apparatus 100 identifies a detour spot on the route search result. The information processing apparatus 100 also identifies a stopover spot based on the distance from the route to the destination and the congestion status. For example, the information processing apparatus 100, when there is enough time to enter without waiting at the destination, such as when the congestion situation of the destination specified as the destination exceeds the congestion tolerance, A detour spot that can be detoured is specified based on the distance and the congestion situation. The information processing apparatus 100 estimates that congestion will be reduced by shifting the time, and can present a spot on the route that is of interest to the user U11 as a detour spot.

In this way, the information processing apparatus 100 identifies a detour spot based not only on the congestion level of the destination, but also on the congestion level including the travel cost to reach the destination. This allows the user U11 to arrive at the destination while avoiding congested routes and congested areas. Also, this allows the user U11 to avoid the risk of going to a crowded store and the risk of traveling a long distance.

(Modification 2: Presentation of reservation date and time considering congestion)
In the above embodiment, the information processing apparatus 100 presents an alternative spot with the same date and time as the searched reservation date and time, but the present invention is not limited to this example. Here, the information processing apparatus 100 may present the reservation date and time for each alternative spot in consideration of the congestion situation, instead of the alternative spot with the same date and time as the reservation date and time. Hereinafter, the processing when the information processing apparatus 100 presents a pinpoint reservation date and time in consideration of the congestion situation of the store will be described.

Conventionally, when the congestion situation at the reservation date and time was unknown, it took time and effort to inquire at the store. In addition, when searching by changing the reservation date and time, it may take time and effort to search and confirm the route again.

The information processing apparatus 100 may specify alternative spots by considering not only the congestion tolerance and distance but also the reservation date and time. In addition, the information processing apparatus 100 may present the reservation date and time in consideration of the store congestion status according to the reservation date and time and the travel cost to the store according to the reservation date and time. When presenting the reservation date and time, the reservation date and time that satisfies the user's tolerance for congestion shall be presented.

FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram for explaining information processing of the information processing system 1 according to Modification 2. As shown in FIG. Note that descriptions similar to those in FIG. 1 will be omitted as appropriate. In FIG. 9 , it is assumed that the user U11 sets search parameters on the screen UI12 displayed on the terminal device 10 . Here, the screen UI12 includes a setting UT21 for congestion tolerance, a setting UT22 for a search target area, and a setting UT23 for reservation date and time.

Since the setting UT 21 includes the same information as the setting UT 11, description thereof is omitted. Note that FIG. 9 shows a case where the user U11 sets the congestion tolerance to "medium" by operating the scroll ST21.

Since the setting UT 22 includes the same information as the setting UT 12, the description thereof is omitted. Note that FIG. 9 shows a case where the user U11 sets the size of the target area to 100 by operating the scroll ST22.

The setting UT 23 includes setting of reservation date and time. FIG. 9 shows a case where the user U11 sets the reservation date and time to "August 29" by operating the scroll ST23. The information processing apparatus 100 identifies an alternative spot by using the reservation date and time determined by setting the setting UT 23 as a search target. For example, the information processing apparatus 100 identifies, as an alternative spot, a store whose congestion status and distance at the reservation date and time of August 29 satisfy the setting UT21 and the setting UT22. Note that the reservation date and time shown in the scroll ST23 may be selected from a predetermined list (for example, selected using a slider) or may be directly input.

Thus, the information processing apparatus 100 acquires the setting information of the user U11 for the screen UI12. In FIG. 9, the information processing apparatus 100 acquires setting information including congestion tolerance, distance, and desired reservation date and time.

FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram for explaining information processing of the information processing system 1 according to Modification 2. As shown in FIG. 1 and 8 will be omitted as appropriate.

On the left side of FIG. 10, the terminal device 10 displays a screen UI23. Here, the screen UI23 displays store information of the destination TP31, store information of the alternative spots SP (31 and 32), and area information of the target area TR31.

The location information of the store is displayed as the store information of the destination TP31. Further, reservation information for reserving the destination TP31 is displayed as the shop information of the destination TP31. Specifically, as reservation information for reserving the destination TP31, available reservation dates and times are displayed. On the left side of FIG. 10, since there is no reservation date and time that can be reserved most recently, information to that effect is displayed. As in this case, when there is no available reservation date and time, the store information of the destination TP31 may be displayed with the color information of "red" indicating that the congestion level is high.

Similarly, the location information of each store is displayed as the store information of the alternative spots SP (31 and 32). Also, reservation information for reserving the alternative spots SP (31 and 32) is displayed as store information of the alternative spots SP (31 and 32). Specifically, as reservation information for reserving the alternative spots SP (31 and 32), available reservation dates and times are displayed.

On the left side of FIG. 10, information indicating that reservations can be made for August 29th is displayed for the alternative spot SP31. Further, information indicating that reservations can be made on August 30 is displayed for the alternative spot SP32. In the setting UT23 of FIG. 9, if the reservation date and time is set to "August 29", the reservation information of the alternative spot SP32 for August 29 is not displayed. Indicates that SP32 is not reservable. Also, if there is a reservation date and time that can be reserved immediately, store information of the alternative spots SP (31 and 32) may be displayed together with the reservation date and time by adding color information according to the state of congestion.

On the right side of FIG. 10, the terminal device 10 displays a screen UI24. Here, the screen UI 24 displays store information of the destination TP41, store information of the detour spots SP (41 and 42), area information of the target area TR41, and position information of the current location PS21, which is the start point. is displayed. Note that descriptions similar to those on the left side of FIG. 10 will be omitted as appropriate.

On the right side of FIG. 10, information indicating that reservations can be made for August 30th is displayed for the detour spot SP41. Further, information indicating that reservations can be made on August 29 is displayed for the detour spot SP42. In the setting UT23 of FIG. 9, if the reservation date and time is set to “August 29th”, the reservation information for the stopover spot SP41 on August 29th will not be displayed. It indicates that road spot SP41 is not reservable. In addition, when there is a reservation date and time that can be reserved immediately, store information of the stopover spots SP (41 and 42) may be displayed together with the reservation date and time by adding color information according to the state of congestion.

In this way, the information processing apparatus 100 estimates the most recent congestion status including the reservation date and time desired by the user U11 at the store (e.g., destination, alternative spot, side trip spot) specified based on the search by the user U11. Then, based on matching between the congestion estimation result and the setting information acquired in FIG. 9, the reservation date and time when the congestion situation of the specified store satisfies the allowable range of the congestion tolerance of the user U11 is specified. Then, the information processing device 100 provides information about the specified reservation date and time, and the terminal device 10 displays the provided information about the reservation date and time.

For example, when the user U11 inputs the congestion tolerance and the reservation date and time, the information processing device 100 compares the setting information of the congestion tolerance and the reservation date and time with the congestion estimation result of the congestion state of the store. You may display the reservation information of the date and time. In addition, the information processing apparatus 100 inputs the store that the user U11 wants to reserve and the congestion tolerance level, so that the information processing apparatus 100 can obtain the setting information of the store that the user U11 wants to reserve and the congestion tolerance level, and the congestion estimation result of the congestion status of the store and the route. , the reservation information of the store on the corresponding date and time and options for the route to the store may be displayed.

In this manner, the information processing apparatus 100 may display reservation information for reserving a store at the specified reservation date and time, and display the congestion status at the reservation date and time in a predetermined manner. Specifically, the information processing apparatus 100 displays the reservation information for the desired reservation date and time when the congestion situation of the store satisfies the allowable range of the congestion tolerance of the user U11 at the reservation date and time desired by the user U11. , at the reservation date and time desired by the user U11, if the congestion situation of the store does not satisfy the allowable range of the congestion tolerance of the user U11, based on the latest congestion situation, the reservation date and time that satisfies the allowable range of the congestion tolerance Reservation information may be displayed. For example, the reservation information of the latest reservation date and time that satisfies the permissible range of congestion tolerance may be displayed.

The information processing apparatus 100 may display the reservation information using different color information when the congestion status differs according to the reservation date and time. Further, when there is no most recent available reservation date and time, the information processing apparatus 100 displays the reservation information using information indicating that fact and color information when there is no most recent available reservation date and time. may

In addition, based on the congestion status of the route to the store at the specified reservation date and time, the information processing apparatus 100 determines the overall congestion status including the congestion status of the route and the congestion status of the store based on the congestion tolerance of the user U11. Route options that satisfy the degree tolerance may be displayed. Further, the information processing apparatus 100 may display the congestion status of routes included in the options in a predetermined manner.

In this way, the information processing apparatus 100 estimates the congestion situation around the destination, determines the alternative date and time for visiting the store based on the store availability based on the congestion estimation result, and presents the reservation date and time. may be performed. At this time, the information processing apparatus 100 may determine an alternative date and time for visiting the store by comparing the availability of the store with the user's own schedule. In this case, the information processing apparatus 100 determines an alternative date and time for visiting the store to be a reservation date and time that satisfies the congestion tolerance.

In addition, the information processing apparatus 100 may specify alternative spots and detour spots within a certain area, within a predetermined range from the route, within a designated area, or the like, according to the reservation date and time.

As a result, the user can grasp the vacancy status, congestion status, travel costs, and the like with a single search without having to check the congestion status and the like again when making a reservation for the store. In addition, as a result, the burden of responding to inquiries and the like is reduced on the store side, and congestion is leveled out, so that customers' expectations can be controlled. In addition, as a result, the congestion of public transportation systems near the store is leveled out, so that the service can be further improved.

Note that the information processing apparatus 100 selects not only a schedule such as August 29, but also a reservation date and time including a time such as "August 29 from 18:00" in the setting UT23 of FIG. Store information corresponding to the relevant reservation date and time may be displayed. Then, the information processing apparatus 100 may display not only the schedule such as August 29, but also the reservation date and time including the time such as "OK from 18:00 on August 29".

Further, when there is a reservation date and time when the store congestion state satisfies the allowable range of the congestion tolerance for the user U11, the information processing apparatus 100 selects the time zone in which the store congestion state satisfies the allowable range of the congestion tolerance. In addition to displaying the reservation information of the reservation date and time including , the congestion status of the reservation date and time corresponding to the time slot may be displayed in a predetermined manner.

[7. effect〕
As described above, the information processing apparatus 100 according to the embodiment has the acquisition unit 131 , the estimation unit 132 , the identification unit 134 and the provision unit 135 . The acquisition unit 131 acquires setting information including a congestion tolerance level indicating a user-acceptable congestion situation and a desired reservation date and time. In addition, the estimation unit 132 estimates the most recent congestion status including the reservation date and time of the store specified based on the user's search. Further, the identifying unit 134 compares the congestion estimation result estimated by the estimating unit 132 with the setting information acquired by the acquiring unit 131, and the reservation date and time when the congestion situation of the store satisfies the allowable range of the congestion tolerance. identify. The providing unit 135 also provides information related to the reservation date and time specified by the specifying unit 134 .

As a result, the information processing apparatus 100 according to the embodiment can present the user with the most recent congestion status including the reservation date and time, so that the user can avoid the risk of going to the store during congestion. Thereby, the information processing apparatus 100 according to the embodiment can provide information to the user in a more appropriate manner when making a reservation for a store.

In addition, the providing unit 135 displays reservation information for reserving a store at the reservation date and time specified by the specifying unit 134 on the search results, and control information for displaying the congestion status at the reservation date and time in a predetermined manner. I will provide a.

As a result, the information processing apparatus 100 according to the embodiment can display the most recent congestion status of the store and reservation information with a single search, thereby further improving usability.

In addition, when the congestion situation of the store satisfies the allowable range of congestion tolerance at the reservation date and time desired by the user, the providing unit 135 displays the reservation information for the desired reservation date and time, and displays the reservation information at the reservation date and time desired by the user. , If the congestion situation of the store does not satisfy the allowable range of congestion tolerance, based on the latest congestion situation, provide control information for displaying the reservation information of the reservation date and time that satisfies the allowable range of congestion tolerance. .

As a result, the information processing apparatus 100 according to the embodiment can promote the leveling of store congestion and reduce the burden of responding to inquiries and the like of the store, thereby promoting further improvement of the service of the store. can.

In addition, when there is a reservation date and time when the store congestion condition satisfies the allowable range of congestion tolerance depending on the time zone, the providing unit 135 makes a reservation including the time zone where the store congestion condition satisfies the allowable range of congestion tolerance. To provide control information for displaying reservation information for a date and time and for displaying, in a predetermined manner, a congestion situation for a reservation date and time corresponding to a time slot.

Accordingly, the information processing apparatus 100 according to the embodiment can present the reservation date and time including the time slot, thereby avoiding the risk of going to the store during busy hours.

Further, the providing unit 135 determines whether the overall congestion state including the congestion state of the route and the congestion state of the store is determined based on the congestion state of the route to the store at the reservation date and time specified by the specifying unit 134. To provide control information for displaying route options that satisfy the permissible range of traffic congestion and for displaying congestion conditions of routes included in the options in a predetermined manner.

As a result, the information processing apparatus 100 according to the embodiment can display options including not only the most recent store congestion status and reservation information, but also route congestion information, in a single search. Usability can be improved.

Further, the identifying unit 134 identifies shops within a predetermined area, within a predetermined range from the route, or within a designated area.

As a result, the information processing apparatus 100 according to the embodiment can refer customers to stores that meet the user's search intent. Moreover, thereby, the information processing apparatus 100 according to the embodiment can avoid not only the risk of going to a crowded store but also the risk of the user traveling a long distance.

[8. Hardware configuration]
Also, the terminal device 10 and the information processing device 100 according to the above-described embodiments are implemented by, for example, a computer 1000 configured as shown in FIG. FIG. 11 is a hardware configuration diagram showing an example of a computer that realizes the functions of the terminal device 10 and the information processing device 100. As shown in FIG. Computer 1000 has CPU 1100 , RAM 1200 , ROM 1300 , HDD 1400 , communication interface (I/F) 1500 , input/output interface (I/F) 1600 and media interface (I/F) 1700 .

The CPU 1100 operates based on programs stored in the ROM 1300 or HDD 1400 and controls each section. The ROM 1300 stores a boot program executed by the CPU 1100 when the computer 1000 is started up, a program depending on the hardware of the computer 1000, and the like.

The HDD 1400 stores programs executed by the CPU 1100, data used by the programs, and the like. Communication interface 1500 receives data from another device via a predetermined communication network, sends the data to CPU 1100, and transmits data generated by CPU 1100 to another device via a predetermined communication network.

The CPU 1100 controls output devices such as displays and printers, and input devices such as keyboards and mice, through an input/output interface 1600 . CPU 1100 acquires data from an input device via input/output interface 1600 . CPU 1100 also outputs the generated data to an output device via input/output interface 1600 .

Media interface 1700 reads programs or data stored in recording medium 1800 and provides them to CPU 1100 via RAM 1200 . CPU 1100 loads such a program from recording medium 1800 onto RAM 1200 via media interface 1700, and executes the loaded program. The recording medium 1800 is, for example, an optical recording medium such as a DVD (Digital Versatile Disc) or a PD (Phase change rewritable disc), a magneto-optical recording medium such as an MO (Magneto-Optical disk), a tape medium, a magnetic recording medium, or a semiconductor memory. etc.

For example, when the computer 1000 functions as the terminal device 10 and the information processing device 100 according to the embodiment, the CPU 1100 of the computer 1000 implements the functions of the control units 14 and 130 by executing programs loaded on the RAM 1200. do. CPU 1100 of computer 1000 reads these programs from recording medium 1800 and executes them, but as another example, these programs may be obtained from another device via a predetermined communication network.

[9. others〕
Further, among the processes described in the above embodiments, all or part of the processes described as being automatically performed can be manually performed, or the processes described as being performed manually can be performed manually. All or part of this can also be done automatically by known methods. In addition, information including processing procedures, specific names, various data and parameters shown in the above documents and drawings can be arbitrarily changed unless otherwise specified. For example, the various information shown in each drawing is not limited to the illustrated information.

Also, each component of each device illustrated is functionally conceptual, and does not necessarily need to be physically configured as illustrated. In other words, the specific form of distribution and integration of each device is not limited to the one shown in the figure, and all or part of them can be functionally or physically distributed and integrated in arbitrary units according to various loads and usage conditions. Can be integrated and configured.

Further, the embodiments described above can be appropriately combined within a range that does not contradict the processing contents.

As described above, some of the embodiments of the present application have been described in detail based on the drawings. It is possible to carry out the invention in other forms with modifications.

Also, the above-mentioned "section, module, unit" can be read as "means" or "circuit". For example, the acquisition unit can be read as acquisition means or an acquisition circuit.

1 information processing system 10 terminal device 100 information processing device 110 communication unit 120 storage unit 121 congestion estimation information storage unit 122 setting information storage unit 130 control unit 131 acquisition unit 132 estimation unit 133 determination unit 134 identification unit 135 provision unit N network

Claims (8)

an acquisition unit that acquires setting information including a congestion tolerance indicating a user-acceptable congestion situation and a desired reservation date and time;
an estimating unit for estimating the congestion status of the store specified based on the user's search within a predetermined period including the reservation date and time;
A specifying unit that specifies a reservation date and time when the congestion situation of the store satisfies the allowable range of the congestion tolerance based on matching between the congestion estimation result estimated by the estimation unit and the setting information acquired by the acquisition unit. When,
a providing unit that provides information related to the reservation date and time specified by the specifying unit;
An information processing device comprising: The providing unit
Display reservation information for reserving the store at the reservation date and time specified by the specifying unit on a screen displaying the store specified based on the search by the user , and specify a congestion situation at the reservation date and time. 2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein control information for displaying in the form of is provided. The providing unit
When the congestion situation of the store satisfies the allowable range of the congestion tolerance at the reservation date and time desired by the user, the reservation information for the desired reservation date and time is displayed, and the store is opened at the reservation date and time desired by the user. does not satisfy the permissible range of the congestion tolerance, provide control information for displaying reservation information for a reservation date and time that satisfies the permissible range of the congestion tolerance based on the latest congestion status. The information processing apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that: The providing unit
If there is a reservation date and time for which the congestion situation of the store satisfies the allowable range of the congestion tolerance level depending on the time period, reservation of the reservation date and time including the time zone where the congestion status of the store satisfies the allowable range of the congestion tolerance level 4. The information processing apparatus according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the information is displayed and control information is provided for displaying the congestion status of the reserved date and time corresponding to the time slot in a predetermined manner. The providing unit
Based on the congestion status of the route to the store at the reservation date and time specified by the specifying unit, the overall congestion status including the congestion status of the route and the congestion status of the store is determined by the congestion tolerance. 5. The method according to any one of claims 2 to 4, characterized by providing control information for displaying options of routes that satisfy the range and displaying congestion conditions of routes included in the options in a predetermined manner. The information processing device described. The specifying unit is
The store is specified based on the search by the user from within a predetermined area, within a predetermined range from a route, or within a designated area , and the congestion situation of the store is within the allowable range of the congestion tolerance. Identify a reservation date and time that satisfies
6. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized by: A computer-executed information processing method comprising:
an acquisition step of acquiring setting information including a congestion tolerance indicating a congestion situation that a user can tolerate and a desired reservation date and time;
an estimating step of estimating the congestion status of the store specified based on the user's search within a predetermined period including the reservation date and time;
A specifying step of specifying a reservation date and time when the congestion state of the store satisfies the allowable range of the congestion tolerance based on matching between the congestion estimation result estimated by the estimation step and the setting information acquired by the acquisition step. When,
a provision step of providing information related to the reservation date and time specified in the specifying step;
An information processing method comprising: an acquisition procedure for acquiring setting information including a congestion tolerance indicating a congestion situation that a user can tolerate and a desired reservation date and time;
an estimating procedure for estimating the congestion status of the store specified based on the user's search within a predetermined period including the reservation date and time;
A specifying procedure for specifying a reservation date and time when the congestion state of the store satisfies the allowable range of the congestion tolerance based on matching between the congestion estimation result estimated by the estimation procedure and the setting information acquired by the acquisition procedure. When,
a providing step for providing information related to the reservation date and time specified by the specifying step;
An information processing program characterized by causing a computer to execute

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