JP7408201B2 - Rental vehicle management system and program - Google Patents

Description

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

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

One example is a service in which movable property to be rented is rented and returned to a user at any real estate location or station (or port). Vehicles that can be rented include vehicles for moving people and cargo, and the types of vehicles include cars, bicycles, and motorcycles.

The vehicle rental service of renting and returning a rental vehicle is divided into a round-trip method, in which the vehicle must be returned at the same station where the vehicle was rented, and a round-trip method, in which the vehicle must be returned at a different location from the location where the vehicle was rented. It is classified as one-way method, which is allowed.

By the way, as for the nomenclature of rental vehicles, for example, bicycles are sometimes called "rental bicycles" or "shared bicycles," but there is no real difference in meaning between the two. not exist. In this specification, for convenience, a bicycle as a rental vehicle will be referred to as a "rental bicycle" or "rental bicycle."

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

Furthermore, one-way vehicle rental services are station-based, where rental and return must be done at a station (or port), and station-type, where rental and return are permitted at any location. It is classified as free floating type.

By the way, if the vehicle rental service is carried out in a manner in which the rental vehicle is stored at one of the stations (regardless of whether it is a round-trip method or a one-way method), the rented rental vehicle Normally, the user should return it to one of the stations after use.

However, if the user forgets or neglects to return the rented vehicle to one of the stations for some reason, the rented vehicle will be left (abandoned) somewhere other than the station. there is a possibility.

Therefore, as a rental company, the additional work of searching for the abandoned rental vehicle and collecting it at one of the stations is required.

On the other hand, when the vehicle rental service is implemented using the free floating one-way method described above, the rented vehicle is returned by the user to one of the stations, that is, to a predetermined location. There isn't.

Therefore, as a rental company that provides a free-floating, one-way vehicle rental service, the rental vehicle must be returned to the location where the user actually returned the rented vehicle (herein, the act of "return" refers to the location where the rental vehicle is Since this does not correspond to the act of collecting at a station, it is necessary to explore the act of ``abandoning'' (which can also be expressed as ``abandonment'' from the perspective of a station-type one-way system).

Thanks to that exploration, rental companies operating vehicle rental services in a free-floating, one-way manner can distinguish between the location where the return actually took place (the apparent return station) and the rental vehicle where the return took place. This user can then be guided to a plurality of other potential users as a place where the item can be rented out (an apparent rental station).

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

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

Furthermore, in the system described in Patent Document 1, an on-vehicle device is mounted on a rental bicycle. The in-vehicle device has a position acquisition unit (GPS (Global Positioning System)) that acquires the position of the rental bicycle. A user uses a terminal device. The terminal device also has a position acquisition unit, similar to a rental bicycle.

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

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

According to the system described in Patent Document 2, if the location information transmitted from the terminal to the parked bicycle management device indicates the same location for a long period of time, the manager can determine whether the bicycle is an abandoned bicycle or not. It can be confirmed that

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

In the system described in Patent Document 4, in the field of car sharing in which cars rather than bicycles are shared between multiple users, a unique identification is provided at a station where a car is lent and/or returned to a user. A first transmitter is installed for transmitting a signal, and a second transmitter for transmitting a unique identification signal is installed on the vehicle. In this system, the user is permitted to rent and/or return the automobile based on a signal received by the user's mobile terminal from the first transmitter and a signal received from the second transmitter.

Furthermore, in the system described in Patent Document 4, when the user's mobile terminal is receiving a signal from the second transmitter but not from the first transmitter, the user It is determined that the person is about to get off the train.

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

According to the system described in Patent Document 1, the presence and location of an abandoned rental vehicle is detected, and the detected abandoned rental vehicle is rented out to another user, thereby eliminating the need for the rental company to handle the vehicle. Abandoned rental vehicles are recovered.

However, in the system described in Patent Document 1, in order to detect the location of an abandoned rental vehicle, it is necessary to install a GPS on the rental vehicle. In this system, the user's terminal device is also equipped with a GPS, but in this system, the location of the rental vehicle cannot be detected using the GPS installed in the terminal device.

Similarly, the system described in Patent Document 3 cannot detect the position of a bicycle using the GPS installed in the user's mobile terminal.

In contrast, according to the system described in Patent Document 2, a GPS installed in a terminal owned by a manager is used to detect the location of an abandoned rental vehicle. As a result, it is not necessary to install a GPS in the rental vehicle.

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

Furthermore, in the system described in Patent Document 4, the management server can detect the possibility that the vehicle will get off the vehicle midway, that is, be abandoned, based on the state of the signals that the user's mobile terminal receives from the two transmitters described above. However, in this system, when the management server detects that there is a possibility that the car will be left unattended, the management server remotely forcibly locks the car's doors and allows the user to do so without permission. This prevents the user from leaving the vehicle unattended.

Therefore, since Patent Document 4 employs a technique to prevent cars from being left unattended, it does not even describe the necessity of detecting the abandoned position of a car. That is, in this document, there is no mention or suggestion of measuring the abandoned position of a car using the GPS of a user's mobile terminal.

On the other hand, if the location of a rental vehicle can be detected using a user's mobile terminal, for example, in a free floating one-way rental business, when a user rents a rental vehicle at any location, It becomes possible to detect the location and the location when the user returns the rental vehicle to an arbitrary location using the user's mobile terminal.

With the above findings as a background, the present invention provides a method for renting a vehicle to a user by using a mobile terminal of the user to whom the vehicle is lent and a short-range wireless communication unit mounted on the vehicle, or by using the user's mobile terminal. The goal was to provide a new technology that would make it possible to rent out cars.

In order to solve the problem, according to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a system for managing a plurality of vehicles that can be lent to users and are stored at a plurality of stations, the system comprising:
Includes a management server that can communicate with users' mobile terminals,
The management server is
When any one of the plurality of stations is selected by the user as the currently selected station, the mobile terminal enables the user to reserve one of the plurality of vehicles as a reserved vehicle. a reservation department,
The user approaches one of the vehicles at the currently selected station, and the mobile terminal performs the short-range wireless communication by short-range communication with a short-range wireless communication unit mounted on one of the vehicles. for the user to start borrowing or using the reserved vehicle if the matching between any of the vehicles identified based on the signal received from the reserved vehicle and the reserved vehicle is successful; an input unit that enables the mobile terminal to accept input of a start request;
including;
If the verification is not successful, the mobile terminal visually or visually prompts the user to try again to receive a signal from the near field communication unit by the mobile terminal. A rental vehicle management system is provided that includes a prompting unit that prompts by audible stimulation.
According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a system for managing a plurality of vehicles that can be lent to users and are stored at a plurality of stations, the system comprising:
Includes a management server that can communicate with users' mobile terminals,
The management server is
When any one of the plurality of stations is selected by the user as the currently selected station, the mobile terminal enables the user to reserve one of the plurality of vehicles as a reserved vehicle. a reservation department,
When the user approaches the reserved vehicle and the user performs an operation to input into the mobile terminal a start request for the user to start borrowing or using the reserved vehicle. and an input section that enables the mobile terminal to accept the input.
including;
The mobile terminal visually detects the user after the user approaches the reserved vehicle and the mobile terminal starts short-range communication with a short-range wireless communication unit mounted on the reserved vehicle. There is provided a rental vehicle management system including a prompting unit that prompts the user to enter the start request into the mobile terminal by providing auditory or tactile stimulation.
According to a third aspect of the present invention, the process is executed on a user's mobile terminal in order for the user to use any of a plurality of vehicles that can be rented to the user and are stored at a plurality of stations. A program that
The mobile terminal is
a reservation unit that allows the user to reserve one of the plurality of vehicles as a reserved vehicle when any one of the plurality of stations is selected by the user as the currently selected station;
The user approaches one of the vehicles at the currently selected station, and the mobile terminal performs the short-range wireless communication by short-range communication with a short-range wireless communication unit mounted on one of the vehicles. for the user to start borrowing or using the reserved vehicle if the matching between any of the vehicles identified based on the signal received from the reserved vehicle and the reserved vehicle is successful; an input section that accepts input of a start request;
visually or aurally stimulating the user to try again to receive a signal from the near field communication unit by the mobile terminal if the verification is not successful; By doing so, the reminding department and
including;
The program is provided to cause the computer to function as a reservation section, an input section, and a reminder section.
According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, the process is executed on a user's mobile terminal in order for the user to use any of a plurality of vehicles that can be rented to the user and are stored at a plurality of stations. A program that
The mobile terminal is
a reservation unit that allows the user to reserve one of the plurality of vehicles as a reserved vehicle when any one of the plurality of stations is selected by the user as the currently selected station;
When the user approaches the reserved vehicle and the user performs an operation to input into the mobile terminal a start request for the user to start borrowing or using the reserved vehicle. an input unit that receives input of the start request;
After the user approaches the reserved vehicle and the mobile terminal starts short-range communication with a short-range wireless communication unit mounted on the reserved vehicle, the user is visually, audibly, or a prompting unit that prompts the user to enter the start request into the mobile terminal by tactile stimulation;
including;
The program is provided to cause the computer to function as a reservation section, an input section, and a reminder section.
Further, according to the first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a system for managing a plurality of vehicles that can be lent to users and are stored at a plurality of stations, the system comprising:
a display unit that allows a user's mobile terminal to display on a screen, among the plurality of stations, stations located near the user's current location as determined by the mobile terminal as a plurality of candidate stations;
a selection unit of the mobile terminal that allows the user to select any of the candidate stations as the currently selected station when the user touches the display position of any of the candidate stations on the screen;
a reservation unit that allows the mobile terminal to reserve one of the plurality of vehicles as a reservation vehicle when the current selection station is selected;
When the user enters into the mobile terminal an initiation request for the user to start borrowing or using the reserved vehicle while the user approaches the reserved vehicle, the mobile terminal: A rental vehicle management system is provided, which includes: an input unit capable of receiving the input;

Further, according to the second aspect of the present invention, in order for the user to use any of a plurality of vehicles that can be rented to the user and are stored at a plurality of stations, A program that
The mobile terminal is
a display unit that displays on a screen, among the plurality of stations, those located near the user's current location as determined by the mobile terminal as a plurality of candidate stations;
a selection unit that selects one of the candidate stations as the currently selected station when the user touches a display position of one of the candidate stations on the screen;
a reservation unit that allows the user to reserve one of the plurality of vehicles as a reserved vehicle when the currently selected station is selected;
An input that accepts an input when the user inputs a start request for starting borrowing or using the reserved vehicle into the mobile terminal while the user approaches the reserved vehicle. Department and
including;
The program is provided to cause the computer to function as the display section, selection section, reservation section, and input section.

Further, according to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided a system for managing a plurality of vehicles that can be lent to users, the system comprising:
a contact or non-contact short-range wireless communication unit mounted on each of the plurality of vehicles;
a management server that remotely manages the plurality of vehicles;
The system enables a user to use a mobile terminal that is capable of short-range wireless communication with the short-range wireless communication unit and long-range wireless communication with the management server,
In this system, a short-range communication state is started in which the mobile terminal performs short-range communication with a short-range wireless communication unit mounted on one of the vehicles because the user approaches one of the vehicles, and, when the user inputs into the mobile terminal an initiation request for the user to start borrowing or using any of the vehicles, a locking device installed in any of the vehicles; Provided is a rental vehicle management system that transmits an unlock signal to one of the vehicles that is in a locked state that prohibits the user from using the vehicle, and thereby remotely unlocks the lock device. .

Further, according to the first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a system for managing a plurality of vehicles that can be lent to users,
a contact or non-contact short-range wireless communication unit mounted on each of the plurality of vehicles;
a management server that remotely manages the plurality of vehicles;
The system enables a user to use a mobile terminal that is capable of short-range wireless communication with the short-range wireless communication unit and long-range wireless communication with the management server,
In this system, a short-range communication state is started in which the mobile terminal performs short-range communication with a short-range wireless communication unit mounted on one of the vehicles because the user approaches one of the vehicles, and, when the user inputs into the mobile terminal an initiation request for the user to start borrowing or using any of the vehicles, a locking device installed in any of the vehicles; transmitting an unlock signal to one of the vehicles in a locked state that prohibits the user from using the vehicle, thereby making it possible to remotely unlock the lock device;
The system may cause the mobile terminal to enter the initiation request into the mobile terminal by visually, audibly or haptically stimulating the user after the near field communication state is initiated. A rental vehicle management system is provided that allows for reminders.

Further, according to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a system for managing a plurality of vehicles that can be lent to users, comprising:
a contact or non-contact short-range wireless communication unit mounted on each of the plurality of vehicles;
a management server that remotely manages the plurality of vehicles;
The system enables a user to use a mobile terminal that is capable of short-range wireless communication with the short-range wireless communication unit and long-range wireless communication with the management server,
In this system, a short-range communication state is started in which the mobile terminal performs short-range communication with a short-range wireless communication unit mounted on one of the vehicles because the user approaches one of the vehicles, and, when the user inputs into the mobile terminal an initiation request for the user to start borrowing or using any of the vehicles, a locking device installed in any of the vehicles; transmitting an unlock signal to one of the vehicles in a locked state that prohibits the user from using the vehicle, thereby making it possible to remotely unlock the lock device;
The system is a rental system that enables the mobile terminal to measure its own current position as the current position of any of the vehicles in the short-range communication state using a positioning function that measures the current position of the user. A vehicle management system is provided.

Further, according to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a system for managing a plurality of vehicles that can be lent to users, comprising:
a contact or non-contact short-range wireless communication unit mounted on each of the plurality of vehicles;
a management server that remotely manages the plurality of vehicles;
The system enables a user to use a mobile terminal that is capable of short-range wireless communication with the short-range wireless communication unit and long-range wireless communication with the management server,
In this system, a short-range communication state is started in which the mobile terminal performs short-range communication with a short-range wireless communication unit mounted on one of the vehicles because the user approaches one of the vehicles, and, when the user inputs into the mobile terminal an initiation request for the user to start borrowing or using any of the vehicles, a locking device installed in any of the vehicles; transmitting an unlock signal to one of the vehicles in a locked state that prohibits the user from using the vehicle, thereby making it possible to remotely unlock the lock device;
The short-range wireless communication unit is capable of transmitting a signal representing a unique communication ID,
The system includes a plurality of vehicle IDs that are unique to each of the plurality of vehicles, and a plurality of communication IDs that are unique to each of the plurality of short-range wireless communication units installed in each of the plurality of vehicles. The communication ID represented by the signal transmitted from the short-range wireless communication unit is converted into a vehicle ID according to a predetermined correspondence relationship between the two, and the plurality of vehicles are thereby assigned respective corresponding vehicle IDs. A rental vehicle management system is provided that allows for identification.

Further, according to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a system for managing a plurality of vehicles that can be lent to users, comprising:
a contact or non-contact short-range wireless communication unit mounted on each of the plurality of vehicles;
a management server that remotely manages the plurality of vehicles;
The system enables a user to use a mobile terminal that is capable of short-range wireless communication with the short-range wireless communication unit and long-range wireless communication with the management server,
In this system, a short-range communication state is started in which the mobile terminal performs short-range communication with a short-range wireless communication unit mounted on one of the vehicles because the user approaches one of the vehicles, and, when the user inputs into the mobile terminal an initiation request for the user to start borrowing or using any of the vehicles, a locking device installed in any of the vehicles; transmitting an unlock signal to one of the vehicles in a locked state that prohibits the user from using the vehicle, thereby making it possible to remotely unlock the lock device;
The system allows the mobile terminal to return any of the vehicles to any of the stations by visually, audibly, or haptically stimulating the user after the short-range communication state is initiated. to encourage people to do things,
In this system, a rental vehicle management system is provided that makes it possible to recognize that the user has abandoned one of the vehicles if the user does not respond to the prompt on the mobile terminal.

Further, according to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a system for managing a plurality of vehicles that can be lent to users, the system comprising:
a short-range wireless communication unit mounted on each of the plurality of vehicles;
a management server that remotely manages the plurality of vehicles;
The system enables a user to select a desired vehicle from among the plurality of vehicles on the mobile terminal by operating the mobile terminal,
The mobile terminal is capable of short-range wireless communication with the short-range wireless communication unit and long-range wireless communication with the management server,
When the management server receives a signal transmitted from the mobile terminal in response to a user's operation to select one of the vehicles, the management server reserves one of the vehicles as a reserved vehicle based on the received signal. , save the reservation details in memory,
In this system, a short-range communication state is started in which the mobile terminal performs short-range communication with a short-range wireless communication unit mounted on one of the vehicles because the user approaches one of the vehicles, and, if any of the vehicles exists as the reserved vehicle in the memory and the user inputs a lending request to lend the reserved vehicle to the user on the mobile terminal, the vehicle is installed in the reserved vehicle. A rental vehicle management system is provided that transmits an unlock signal to a lock device that is in a locked state that prohibits a user from using the reserved vehicle, and thereby remotely unlocks the lock device. Ru.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a system for managing a plurality of vehicles that can be lent to users, the system comprising:
a short-range wireless communication unit mounted on each of the plurality of vehicles;
a management server that remotely manages the plurality of vehicles;
The management server reserves the vehicle selected by the user as a reserved vehicle, stores the reservation details in memory,
The system enables a user to use a mobile terminal that is capable of short-range wireless communication with the short-range wireless communication unit and long-range wireless communication with the management server,
In this system, when a user approaches one of the vehicles, a short-range communication state is started in which the user's mobile terminal performs short-range communication with a short-range wireless communication unit installed in one of the vehicles. and if any of the vehicles exists as the reserved vehicle in the memory, a locking device installed on the reserved vehicle that is in a locked state that prohibits the user from using the reserved vehicle. transmitting an unlocking signal to, thereby remotely unlocking the locking device;
The mobile terminal has a positioning function for positioning the user's current location,
The map location of the rental station where the reserved vehicle is scheduled to be rented is stored in advance;
A rental vehicle management system is provided that determines whether any of the vehicles is the reserved vehicle by comparing the current location of the user as determined by the mobile terminal and the location on the map of the rental station. Ru.

According to yet another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a system for managing a plurality of vehicles that can be lent to users, the system comprising:
a short-range wireless communication unit installed in each of the plurality of vehicles and capable of transmitting a signal representing a unique communication ID;
a management server that remotely manages the plurality of vehicles;
The system enables a user to use a mobile terminal that is capable of short-range wireless communication with the short-range wireless communication unit and long-range wireless communication with the management server,
In this system, when a user approaches one of the vehicles, a short-range communication state is started in which the user's mobile terminal performs short-range communication with a short-range wireless communication unit installed in one of the vehicles. When the vehicle is unlocked, an unlocking signal is transmitted to a locking device installed in any of the vehicles that is in a locked state that prohibits the user from using any of the vehicles, and thereby, remotely unlocking the locking device;
predetermined between a plurality of vehicle IDs that are unique to each of the plurality of vehicles and a plurality of communication IDs that are unique to each of the plurality of short-range wireless communication units installed in each of the plurality of vehicles. A rental vehicle that converts a communication ID represented by a signal transmitted from the short-range wireless communication unit into a vehicle ID according to a correspondence relationship that is specified, and thereby identifies the plurality of vehicles as respective corresponding vehicle IDs. A management system is provided.

Further, according to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided a rental object management system that allows rental objects that are movable or real estate to be rented to a user, comprising:
A short-range wireless communication unit installed in each of the plurality of rental targets, which transmits a signal representing a unique communication ID;
a management server that uses a memory that stores a predetermined relationship between an object ID that is an ID of each of the plurality of rental objects and a plurality of communication IDs;
The user has a mobile terminal having a function of communicating with the management server and a function of communicating with the short-range wireless communication unit,
The mobile terminal and/or the management server:
an ID conversion unit that converts a communication ID represented by a signal effectively received by the mobile terminal from the short-range wireless communication unit installed in one of the rental targets into a corresponding target ID according to the relationship;
The mobile terminal is
When the user approaches one of the rental targets and the mobile terminal effectively receives a signal from the short-range wireless communication unit installed in one of the rental targets, the ID conversion unit is used. , the rental target ID of the rental target to be lent to the user is specified as the rental target ID from the communication ID represented by the signal received from the short-range wireless communication unit, and the rental target ID is transmitted to the management server. including an ID transmitter,
The management server includes a rental object management system that includes a rental permission section that responds to receiving the rental object ID from the mobile terminal and permits a user using the mobile terminal to rent one of the rental objects. provided.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a rental object management method that makes it possible to rent a rental object to a user, the method comprising:
The rental target is equipped with a transmitter that emits a unique signal,
The user has a mobile terminal having a function of communicating with a management server and a function of receiving a signal from the transmitter,
The method is
When the mobile terminal effectively receives a signal from the transmitter of the rental target because the user approaches one of the rental targets, the mobile terminal transmits the signal to the user from the signal received from the transmitter. a lending step of identifying an ID of a rental object to be lent as a lending object ID, and transmitting the lending object ID to the management server;
Because the user returns the rental object that was lent to him or herself and moves away from the rental object, the mobile terminal changes from a state where it can effectively receive signals from the transmitter of the rental object to a state where it does not effectively receive the signal. When the transition occurs, the mobile terminal identifies the rental target ID as the return target ID based on the signal received from the transmitter before it can no longer be effectively received, and transmits the return target ID to the management server. return process,
a simultaneous transmission step in which the management server simultaneously transmits the locations of a plurality of rental stations that rent out rental objects to the mobile terminals of a plurality of potential users;
When the transition occurs, the mobile terminal acquires its current location as a new rental station location, and transmits the new rental station location to the management server. Ru.

According to yet another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a rental object management method that allows rental objects to be rented out to users, the method comprising:
The rental target is equipped with a transmitter that emits a unique signal,
The user has a mobile terminal having a function of communicating with a management server and a function of receiving a signal from the transmitter,
The method is
When the mobile terminal effectively receives a signal from the transmitter of the rental target because the user approaches one of the rental targets, the mobile terminal transmits the signal to the user from the signal received from the transmitter. The method includes a lending step of identifying an ID of a rental object to be lent as a lending object ID, and transmitting the lending object ID to the management server, and further optionally,
Because the user returns the rental object that was lent to him or herself and moves away from the rental object, the mobile terminal changes from a state where it can effectively receive signals from the transmitter of the rental object to a state where it does not effectively receive the signal. When the transition occurs, the mobile terminal identifies the rental target ID as the return target ID based on the signal received from the transmitter before it can no longer be effectively received, and transmits the return target ID to the management server. Including the return process,
A rental object management method is provided for the rental object including real estate.

Further, according to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a rental object management method that makes it possible to rent a rental object to a user,
The rental target is equipped with a transmitter that emits a unique signal,
The user has a mobile terminal having a function of communicating with a management server and a function of receiving a signal from the transmitter,
The method is
When the mobile terminal effectively receives a signal from the transmitter of the rental target because the user approaches one of the rental targets, the mobile terminal transmits the signal to the user from the signal received from the transmitter. a lending step of identifying an ID of a rental object to be lent as a lending object ID, and transmitting the lending object ID to the management server;
Because the user returns the rental object that was lent to him or herself and moves away from the rental object, the mobile terminal changes from a state where it can effectively receive signals from the transmitter of the rental object to a state where it does not effectively receive the signal. When the transition occurs, the mobile terminal identifies the rental target ID as the return target ID based on the signal received from the transmitter before it can no longer be effectively received, and transmits the return target ID to the management server. A rental object management method is provided, including a return process.

Further, according to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a rental vehicle management method that allows renting a rental vehicle to a user, comprising:
The rental vehicle is equipped with a transmitter that sends out a unique signal.
The user has a mobile terminal having a function of communicating with a management server and a function of receiving a signal from the transmitter,
The method is
When the user approaches any rental vehicle and the mobile terminal effectively receives a signal from the transmitter of that rental vehicle, the mobile terminal transmits a message to the user from the signal received from the transmitter. a lending step of identifying a vehicle ID of a rental vehicle to be rented and transmitting the vehicle ID as a rental vehicle ID to the management server;
Because the user returns the rental vehicle lent to him or herself and moves away from the rental vehicle, the mobile terminal changes from a state where it effectively receives signals from the transmitter of the rental vehicle to a state where it does not effectively receive the signal. When the transition occurs, the mobile terminal identifies the ID of the rental vehicle as a return vehicle ID from the signal received from the transmitter before it can no longer be effectively received, and transmits the return vehicle ID to the management server. A rental vehicle management method is provided that includes a return process.

Further, according to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided a rental vehicle management method that allows rental vehicles to be rented out to users in a free floating manner, comprising:
The rental vehicle is equipped with a transmitter that sends out a unique signal.
The user has a mobile terminal having a function of communicating with a management server and a function of receiving a signal from the transmitter,
The method is
The mobile terminal effectively receives a signal from the transmitter of the rental vehicle because the user approaches one of the rental vehicles present at one of a plurality of temporary rental stations that rent out rental vehicles. Then, the mobile terminal identifies the vehicle ID of the rental vehicle rented to the user from the signal received from the transmitter, stores the vehicle ID in the memory as the rental vehicle ID, and stores the rental vehicle ID in the management. A lending process to send to the server,
Because the user returns the rental vehicle lent to him/herself to an arbitrary location and moves away from the rental vehicle, the mobile terminal changes from a state in which it is effectively receiving signals from the transmitter of the rental vehicle. When the mobile terminal changes to a non-receiving state, the mobile terminal identifies the ID of the rental vehicle as the returned vehicle ID from the signal received from the transmitter before it can no longer receive the signal effectively, and stores the returned vehicle ID in the memory. A free floating rental vehicle management method is provided, comprising: a return step of transmitting the return vehicle ID to the management server on the condition that the ID matches a rental vehicle ID stored in the management server.

Further, according to one aspect of the present invention, the mobile terminal of the user effectively receives a signal specific to the transmitter from the transmitter installed in the rental vehicle being borrowed using a short-range communication method. When transitioning to a non-receiving state in which no reception is received, the current position measured by the mobile terminal is stored in memory, and the user is instructed not to leave the rental vehicle at the current position but to return it to the normal position. An icon and/or message for reminding is displayed on the screen of the mobile terminal, and when the duration of the non-receiving state exceeds a predetermined time, the current position stored in the memory is changed to the abandoned position of the rental vehicle. A rental vehicle management method is provided that recognizes the following.

The following aspects can be obtained by the present invention. Each aspect is divided into sections, each section is numbered, and the numbers of other sections are cited as necessary. This is to facilitate understanding of some of the technical features that can be adopted by the present invention and their combinations, and the technical features that can be adopted by the present invention and their combinations are limited to the following aspects. It should not be interpreted as such. That is, it should be interpreted that technical features not described in the following embodiments but described in this specification may be appropriately extracted and adopted as technical features of the present invention.

Furthermore, it should be noted that the description of each section in the form of quoting the numbers of other sections does not necessarily prevent the technical features described in each section from being separated and independent from the technical features described in other sections. It should be interpreted that the technical features described in each section can be made independent as appropriate depending on the nature of the technical features described in each section.

(1) Transition from a receiving state in which the user's mobile terminal effectively receives a signal unique to the transmitter from the transmitter installed in the rental vehicle using the short-range communication method to a non-receiving state in which it does not receive the signal effectively. Then, the rental vehicle management method recognizes the current position measured by the mobile terminal at the start time of the non-receiving state as the abandoned position of the rental vehicle.

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

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

(2) A method of managing rental vehicles, comprising:
The user who rented the rental vehicle carries his/her own mobile terminal while using the rental vehicle,
The rental vehicle is equipped with a transmitter that emits a signal that can identify a unique vehicle identification code,
The mobile terminal is capable of receiving the transmitter using a short-range communication method, and has a positioning function that sequentially measures its own current position,
The method is
A vehicle identification step in which the mobile terminal and/or a management server capable of communicating with the mobile terminal identifies the rental vehicle by acquiring a vehicle identification code identified by the signal that the mobile terminal receives from the transmitter. and,
When the mobile terminal and/or the management server transitions from a receiving state in which the mobile terminal effectively receives signals from the transmitter to a non-receiving state in which the mobile terminal does not effectively receive signals, the mobile terminal The current position measured by the rental vehicle is stored in memory as a temporary abandoned position of the identified rental vehicle, and when the duration of the non-receiving state exceeds a predetermined time, the temporary abandoned position stored in the memory is saved. A rental vehicle management method comprising: recognizing a location as a final abandoned location of the identified rental vehicle.

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

(4) Furthermore,
comprising an abandoned vehicle recognition step in which the mobile terminal and/or the management server, when transitioning from the receiving state to the non-receiving state, recognizes the identified rental vehicle as an abandoned vehicle;
The abandoned vehicle recognition process is
a step of recognizing the rental vehicle as an abandoned vehicle when the elapsed time from the start time of the non-receiving state exceeds a predetermined time;
a step of recognizing the rental vehicle as an abandoned vehicle when the rental vehicle is not returned to any station even after the permitted rental time of the rental vehicle authorized by the user has elapsed;
After the non-receiving state is initiated, the mobile terminal may visually, audibly or haptically stimulate the user to prompt the user to return the rental vehicle to any station; The rental vehicle management method according to item (3), including at least one of the steps of: recognizing the rental vehicle as an abandoned vehicle if the user does not respond to the reminder on the mobile terminal.

(5) Furthermore,
The mobile terminal and/or the management server may request the mobile terminals of other potential users to go to the abandoned location, borrow the abandoned vehicle, and return the abandoned vehicle to any station. The rental vehicle management method according to item (3) or (4), including a collection promotion step of transmitting requests all at once to promote collection of the abandoned vehicles.

(6) Transition from a non-receiving state in which the user's mobile terminal does not effectively receive a signal unique to the transmitter from the transmitter installed in the rental vehicle before borrowing using the short-range communication method to a receiving state in which it effectively receives the signal. Then, the rental vehicle management method recognizes the current location measured by the mobile terminal at the start time of the reception state as the rental location of the rental vehicle.

According to this method, a vehicle rental business that allows a user to rent a rental vehicle at any station or a vehicle rental business that allows a user to rent a rental vehicle at any location is realized. Ru.

In one example of this method, the reception range of the transmitter is set to a short range, which will be described later, so that when the user holds the mobile terminal over the transmitter, the transition from the non-receiving state to the receiving state is possible. It will be done.

In another example, the reception range of the transmitter is the medium range described below (as long as the user is in the rental vehicle, the mobile terminal can receive the transmitter without having to hold the mobile terminal over the transmitter). As a result, when the user approaches the rental vehicle and the transmitter together with the mobile terminal, the transition from the non-receiving state to the receiving state is performed.

(7) A non-receiving state in which the user's mobile terminal effectively receives a signal unique to the transmitter from a transmitter installed in the rental vehicle using the short-range communication method, and a non-receiving state in which the user's mobile terminal does not receive the signal effectively. , the rental vehicle management method recognizes the current position measured by the mobile terminal at the start time of the non-receiving state as the return position of the rental vehicle.

According to this method, a vehicle rental business that allows a user to return a rental vehicle to any station, or a vehicle rental business that allows a user to return a rental vehicle to any location. Realized.

In one example of this method, the reception range of the transmitter is set to the medium range, and the user can exit the reception state by moving away from or retreating from the rental vehicle and the transmitter together with the mobile terminal. A transition to the non-receiving state is performed.

(8) When the user's mobile terminal transitions from a non-receiving state in which it does not receive a signal specific to that transmitter from a transmitter installed in the rental vehicle being borrowed by short-range communication method to a receiving state in which it receives it, the transition occurs. A rental vehicle management method that recognizes the current position measured by the mobile terminal within a reference time as the return position of the rental vehicle.

According to this method, a vehicle rental business that allows a user to return a rental vehicle to any station, or a vehicle rental business that allows a user to return a rental vehicle to any location. Realized.

In one example of this method, the reception range of the transmitter is set to the short range, so that when the user approaches the rental vehicle and the transmitter together with a mobile terminal, the user can change the reception range from the non-receiving state to the short range. A transition to the receiving state is made.

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

(10) A program executed by a computer of a mobile terminal to implement the mobile terminal according to any one of (1) to (9).

A program according to this and other sections shall be construed to mean, for example, a combination of instructions executed by a computer to perform its functions, and not only a combination of such instructions, but also a program processed in accordance with each instruction. It can be interpreted to include, but is not limited to, files and data.

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

(11) A program executed by a computer of a management server to implement the management server according to any one of paragraphs (2) to (5).

(12) A recording medium on which the program described in (10) or (11) is recorded in a computer-readable manner.

This recording medium can be in various formats, including magnetic recording media such as flexible disks, optical recording media such as CDs and CD-ROMs, magneto-optical recording media such as MO, and unremovable storage media such as ROM. Any of the following may be adopted, but the invention is not limited to these.

(13) A system for managing rental objects,
a transmitter installed in the rental object and transmitting a unique signal;
A mobile terminal carried by the user of the rental object while using the rental object, which is capable of measuring the user's current position and receives the signal from the transmitter using a short-range communication method. including that it is possible to
The mobile terminal and/or a management server capable of communicating with the mobile terminal,
From a receiving state in which the mobile terminal effectively receives a signal from the transmitter because the user is close to the rental object being borrowed, to a reception state in which the mobile terminal effectively receives a signal from the transmitter because the user has moved away from the rental object. The rental object management system includes an abandoned position recognition unit that recognizes the current position measured by the mobile terminal at the start time of the non-receiving state as the abandoned position of the rental object when the mobile terminal transitions to a non-receiving state in which the non-receiving state is not effectively received.

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

(14) A system for managing rental objects,
a transmitter installed in the rental object and transmitting a unique signal;
A mobile terminal carried by the user of the rental object while using the rental object, which is capable of measuring the user's current position and receives the signal from the transmitter using a short-range communication method. including that it is possible to
The mobile terminal and/or a management server capable of communicating with the mobile terminal,
From a non-receiving state in which the mobile terminal does not effectively receive a signal from the transmitter because the user is away from the waiting rental target, the mobile terminal changes to the transmitter because the user approaches the rental target. a rental object recognition unit that recognizes a rental object identified by the signal received from the transmitter as a rental object to be rented to a user when the mobile terminal transitions to a reception state in which it effectively receives a signal from the transmitter;
A rental object management system comprising: a rental position recognition unit that recognizes a current position measured by the mobile terminal at a start time of the reception state as a rental position of the rental object.

(15) Furthermore,
a rental permission unit that allows the rental object to be rented to a user on the condition that predetermined conditions are met;
When the rental is permitted, an unlocking signal is sent to the lock device in the locked state that prohibits the user from using the rental object, thereby allowing the lock device to use the rental device. The rental object management system according to paragraph (14), comprising: an unlocking command unit that automatically switches to a permission state;

(16) A system for managing rental objects,
a transmitter installed in the rental object and transmitting a unique signal;
A mobile terminal carried by the user of the rental object while using the rental object, which is capable of measuring the user's current position and receives the signal from the transmitter using a short-range communication method. including that it is possible to
The mobile terminal and/or a management server capable of communicating with the mobile terminal,
From a receiving state in which the mobile terminal effectively receives a signal from the transmitter because the user is close to the rental object being borrowed, to a state where the mobile terminal effectively receives the signal from the transmitter because the user has moved away from the rental object. When transitioning to a non-receiving state in which a signal is not effectively received, the mobile terminal includes return object recognition in which the rental object identified by the identification signal received from the transmitter is recognized as a rental object to be returned by the user. Department and
A rental object management system comprising: a return position recognition unit that recognizes a current position measured by the mobile terminal at a start time of the non-receiving state as a return position of the rental object.

(17) Furthermore,
a return permission unit that allows the user to return the rental object on the condition that predetermined conditions are met;
The rental object management system according to item (16), comprising: a lock confirmation unit that confirms that the user has manually switched a lock device that is in a state that allows use of the rental object to a lock state that prohibits the use of the rental object. .

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

(19) The rental object management system according to item (18), wherein the movable property includes a moving object.

(20) The rental object management system according to item (19), wherein the mobile object includes a bicycle, a car, a motorcycle, a recreational or competitive go-cart, a shopping cart, a stroller, a handcart, a wheelchair, or a golf cart.

(21) The movables include furniture, clothing, electrical products, accessories that are removably attached to electrical products (e.g., batteries or chargers), or recording media on which audiovisual content is recorded (e.g., CDs). The rental object management system according to item (18), which includes a system that can be played by a user.

(22) The real estate includes a room in an accommodation facility (e.g., a hotel) where a user can stay for a short period of time, a room in an accommodation facility (e.g., an apartment) where a user can stay for a long time, and a room where an individual can stay permanently. A room in an accommodation facility (e.g., single-family house, apartment complex, etc.) that is temporarily rented to another person (e.g., a room for private lodging), a coin locker, a public or private parking lot, or a room in a private residence. A parking lot that is temporarily lent to another person (a parking lot that is rented out for a period of time in a privately owned parking lot, or a parking lot that allows parking lot sharing in which a privately owned parking lot is temporarily shared with another person). The rental object management system described in item (18), including:

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

(24) Provided that the user's mobile terminal detects a state in which the user's mobile terminal is receiving both the signal from the first transmitter and the signal from the second transmitter, the user is informed of the rental target. The rental object management method described in section (23) that allows rental and/or return.

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

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

(27) The rental object management method according to item (26), wherein the reception range is controlled to become longer when the user completes the rental process.

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

(29) In a receiving state in which the user's mobile terminal is effectively receiving a signal specific to the transmitter from a transmitter installed in the rental vehicle being borrowed by the short-range communication method, the mobile terminal If the absolute value of the speed and/or acceleration obtained by When transitioning to a non-reception state in which reception is not performed effectively, it is determined that the user has gotten off the rental object, and in that state, if the absolute value of the speed and/or acceleration measured by the mobile terminal is equal to or greater than a reference value, A rental vehicle management method for determining that a user is away from the rental vehicle.

According to this method, it is possible to relatively easily and accurately determine whether the user is in the rental vehicle or away from the rental vehicle, and to manage the rental vehicle with different contents depending on the results. becomes.

(30) A method for managing rental vehicles that are rented and returned to users at the same or different stations, the method comprising:
The user who rented the rental vehicle carries his/her own mobile terminal while using the rental vehicle,
The rental vehicle is equipped with a transmitter that emits a signal that can identify a unique vehicle identification code,
The mobile terminal is capable of receiving the transmitter using a short-range communication method, and has a positioning function that sequentially measures its own current position,
The method is
The mobile terminal and/or a management server capable of communicating with the mobile terminal receives a signal from the transmitter and acquires a vehicle identification code identified by the received signal, so that the mobile terminal receives the signal from the transmitter and acquires the vehicle identification code identified by the received signal. a vehicle identification process for identifying the
The mobile terminal and/or the management server is in a receiving state in which the mobile terminal effectively receives a signal from the transmitter in a state where the user, the mobile terminal, and the rental vehicle are not present at any station. A rental vehicle comprising: upon transition to a non-receiving state in which reception is not effectively received, an abandoned position recognition step of recognizing the current position measured by the mobile terminal within a reference time from the transition as the abandoned position of the identified rental vehicle. Management method.

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

Figure 2 shows a first transmitter installed at a certain station, a second transmitter installed on a bicycle located at the same station, and a second transmitter installed at the same station in the bicycle rental system shown in Figure 1(a). FIG. 2 is a perspective view illustrating an example of how a mobile terminal of a user located in the mobile terminal and a management server operated by a management center located in a remote location communicate with each other.

FIG. 3 shows short-range one-way communication between the first and second transmitters and a mobile terminal, both shown in FIG. 2, and long-distance two-way communication between the mobile terminal and the management server shown in the same figure. FIG. 3 is a diagram conceptually representing communication.

FIG. 4 is a functional block diagram conceptually representing the first and second transmitters shown in FIG. 2.

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

FIG. 6(a) is an enlarged plan view showing the first and second transmitters shown in FIG. 1(a) together with the stations where the first and second transmitters are installed; further conceptually represents an example of the first and second effective reception areas respectively allocated to the first and second transmitters, and FIG. FIG. 6C is a plan view conceptually representing a first modified example of the area, and FIG. 6(c) is a plan view conceptually representing a second modified example of the first effective reception area.

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

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

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

FIG. 10 is a functional block diagram conceptually representing the management server shown in FIG. 2.

FIG. 11(a) shows a list showing a plurality of modules of the bicycle rental program executed by the computer of the mobile terminal shown in FIG. 7, and FIG. 11(b) shows the computer of the management server shown in FIG. Figure 3 shows a list showing multiple modules of a bicycle rental program run by.

FIG. 12(a) is a diagram illustrating a reservation status table used in the reservation sequence in order to explain the reservation sequence of the bicycle rental method executed in the bicycle rental system. 12(b) is a diagram illustrating a user-specific reservation content file used in the reservation sequence.

FIG. 13(a) is a plurality of time charts for illustratively explaining the main sequences realized when there is a reservation in the bicycle rental method, and FIG. 13(b) is a plurality of time charts for illustrating main sequences realized in the bicycle rental method 3A and 3B are a plurality of time charts for illustratively explaining main sequences that are realized when there is no reservation.

FIG. 14 is a reservation sequence flow that is achieved by executing the reservation module shown in FIG. 11(a) by the mobile terminal and by executing the reservation module shown in FIG. 11(b) by the management server.

FIGS. 15A, 15B, and 15C are reservation sequence diagrams for chronologically explaining the reservation sequence flow shown in FIG. 14.

FIG. 16 shows the reservation-only lending process that is achieved by the execution of the reservation-based lending processing module shown in FIG. 11(a) by the mobile terminal and the execution of the reservation-based lending processing module shown in FIG. 10(b) by the management server. This is a sequence flow.

FIG. 17 shows the no-reservation lending process achieved by the execution of the no-reservation lending processing module shown in FIG. 11(a) by the mobile terminal and the execution of the no-reservation lending processing module shown in FIG. 11(b) by the management server. This is a processing sequence flow.

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

FIG. 19 shows an abandoned bicycle search sequence flow achieved by executing the abandoned bicycle search module shown in FIG. 11(a) by the mobile terminal and by executing the abandoned bicycle search module shown in FIG. 11(b) by the management server. .

FIG. 20 is a sequence flow of an abandoned bicycle collection achieved by the execution of the abandoned bicycle collection module shown in FIG. 11(a) by the mobile terminal and the execution of the abandoned bicycle collection module shown in FIG. 11(b) by the management server. .

FIG. 21(a) shows an example of a user X riding a rental bicycle in order to explain the process of searching for and recovering an abandoned bicycle in the bicycle rental system shown in FIG. , (b) of the same figure shows an example of how the user , and FIG. 3D shows an example of how the user Y borrows the abandoned bicycle and starts riding.

FIG. 22 is a plurality of time charts for illustrating an abandoned bicycle search/recovery sequence in which an abandoned bicycle is searched for and recovered in the bicycle rental system shown in FIG. 1(a).

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hereinafter, some exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail based on the drawings.

<First embodiment>

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

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

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

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

However, according to this rental business, a bicycle 12 abandoned at an arbitrary location, that is, an abandoned bicycle, is automatically searched for, and as a result of the search, when an abandoned bicycle 12 is found, the abandoned bicycle 12 is located at a location where the abandoned bicycle 12 is left. is simultaneously guided (distributed or broadcast) to a plurality of potential users as a place where they can borrow the parked bicycle 12 and start riding it.

This facilitates the return of the parked bicycle 12 to any station 20 and recovery by any other user. As a result, the rental company is at least partially freed from the additional work of traveling to collect the abandoned bicycle 12 and returning it to one of the stations 20.

According to this rental business, when the management server 50 confirms that the user leaves the borrowed bicycle 12 unattended, the bicycle 12 is considered to have been returned, although a penalty is imposed. Therefore, if we focus on this, it can be considered that this rental business partially adopts a free floating one-way system.

In short, this rental business can be thought of as adopting a hybrid one-way system that combines a station type and a free floating type.

In this embodiment, if the user who rented the bicycle 12 gets off the bicycle 12 at any location other than the station 20 and parks it there, this action is expressed by the term "abandonment." However, if the bicycle 12 is left unattended, the abandoned position will function as if it were a new station 20, and another user may borrow the abandoned bicycle as if it had been legally returned. be.

Therefore, in this embodiment, the term "abandonment" is synonymous with "return", which is a legitimate act, when another user borrows an abandoned bicycle and returns it to any station 20. On the other hand, if a rental company collects an abandoned bicycle because there is no such user, it is a term whose meaning changes depending on the situation, such as ``abandoning'' as a fraudulent act. It is interpreted that there is.

Therefore, in this embodiment, the term "leave" may be interpreted as being synonymous with "return".

As shown in FIGS. 1A and 2, this system 10 includes a plurality of stations 20 each capable of storing a plurality of bicycles 12 (FIG. This system provides a service for renting and returning bicycles 12 to users at stations 20 (only representative stations 20 are shown). Each station 20 is assigned to a corresponding bicycle parking lot 22. The bicycle parking lot 22 is a site for storing rental bicycles, and in the illustrated example, it has a rectangular shape in plan view.

As a management method for the stations 20, there is an independent management method in which each station 20 is managed autonomously (individually or self-contained) using only the equipment installed at that station 20, and a multiple station 20 management method. There is a centralized management method in which stations 20 are centrally managed by communicating with a management server located at a remote location. The system 10 according to this embodiment employs the latter centralized management method.

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

Here, the first transmitter 30 is referred to as a station-side transmitter when paying attention to its installation position, and is referred to as a fixed transmitter, a stationary transmitter, or a position-invariable transmitter when paying attention to its movement characteristics. Similarly, the second transmitter 32 is called a bicycle-side transmitter or a vehicle-mounted transmitter when focusing on its installation position, and it is also called a movable transmitter, a mobile transmitter, or a position-variable transmitter when focusing on its motion characteristics. It is called.

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

In this embodiment, each first transmitter 30 is configured to emit a local identification signal that can identify a station ID unique to the corresponding station 20. Each second transmitter 32 is also configured to emit a local identification signal that can identify a bicycle ID unique to the corresponding bicycle 12. The same station ID is commonly used for multiple bicycles 12 stored at the same station 20.

The number and type of bicycles 12 scheduled to be stored at the same station 20 may be determined in advance and do not change from day to day, but in this embodiment, they are not determined in advance and may change from day to day. Is possible.

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

Specifically, in this embodiment, the same bicycle ID corresponds to the station ID of station A when the bicycle is rented, but corresponds to the station ID of station B when the bicycle is returned. In this way, each user action of lending and returning the bicycle 12 is defined by a combination of the station ID and the bicycle ID.

As shown in FIG. 1(b), a corresponding second transmitter 32 is attached to a specific part of each bicycle 12. Examples of the specific parts include the front part (for example, the basket part), the rear part (for example, the cargo bed), and the center part (for example, the saddle 62 of the bicycle 12; A triangular frame 64) that supports the frame from below.

In addition, the part of each bicycle 12 to which the second transmitter 32 is attached is in a state where the user is riding the bicycle 12 (a state in which the user begins to sit on the saddle 62 of the bicycle 12 (also referred to as a "riding state")) and the state of sitting on the saddle 62 of the bicycle 12 and driving the bicycle 12 (also referred to as "riding state", "riding", "riding and moving state"). ), and the mobile terminal 90 carried by the user is likely to be able to receive the signal transmitted from the second transmitter 32 without any obstructions (for example, the basket portion, the loading platform, etc.). selected as follows.

As shown in FIG. 1(a), this system 10 stores the above-mentioned first transmitter 30 as a fixed object installed in the corresponding bicycle parking lot 22 and a plurality of bicycles 12 at each station 20. A bicycle rack (bicycle storage device) 70 is provided.

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

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

In one example, although not shown, each bicycle 12 is equipped with a lock that can selectively lock its wheels (front and/or rear wheels) or handlebars to the bicycle frame. In another example, not shown, each bicycle stall 72 is equipped with a lock that allows bicycle 12 to be selectively locked to each bicycle stall 72.

In either example, the lock may be of a PIN type (dial lock, push button lock, etc.) that the user enters a PIN to unlock, or a lock that is unlocked by the user's mobile terminal 90 or the management server 50. There are remote types that unlock with a signal, mechanical locks that operate without using power (electricity), and electronic locks that operate using power (electricity).

As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, in this system 10, the user uses his or her mobile terminal 90 to receive identification from the first transmitter 30 installed at the station 20 where the user is currently staying. signal and an identification signal from the second transmitter 32 installed on the bicycle reserved by the user or selected locally among the plurality of bicycles 12 stored at the current station 20 at that time. Reception is performed simultaneously and in contact or non-contact with the first and second transmitters 30 and 32 (short-range one-way wireless communication is performed). The mobile terminal 90 further performs long-distance two-way wireless communication with the management server 50 of the management center 40.

The user's mobile terminal 90 is a device that is carried by the user and has a wireless communication function, such as a mobile phone, a smart phone, a laptop computer, a tablet computer, or a PDA.

<First and second transmitters>

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

Each transmitter 30, 32 emits a unique identification signal actively, locally, and permanently, without the need for an external trigger signal, unless the power supply is insufficient.

Each of the transmitters 30 and 32 is generally a device also known as a beacon device, a radio beacon, or the like that transmits a beacon signal as an identification signal. In one example, each transmitter 30, 32 generates an identification signal representing the corresponding station ID by modulating the original signal, and transmits the generated identification signal to an IR signal, a Bluetooth (registered trademark) signal, It is transmitted locally as an NFC (near field communication) signal.

Next, the hardware configuration will be described with reference to FIG. 4, which is a functional block diagram. Each transmitter 30, 32 has a processor 100 and a memory 102 that stores a plurality of applications executed by the processor 100. It is mainly configured with a computer 104.

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

Each of the transmitters 30 and 32 further includes a transmitter 108 that generates and transmits an identification signal representing its own proper transmitter ID (an example of a "transmitter code"). Each first transmitter 30 transmits an identification signal representing a unique authorized first transmitter ID, whereas each second transmitter 32 transmits an identification signal representing a unique authorized second transmitter ID. .

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

Next, the software configuration of each transmitter 30, 32 will be described with reference to FIG. Execute according to purpose.

When the program is executed each time, first, in step S1, the regular transmitter ID corresponding to each transmitter 30, 32 (that is, the regular first transmitter ID corresponding to the first transmitter 30, and the regular transmitter ID corresponding to the first transmitter 30, Among the regular second transmitter IDs corresponding to the second transmitter 32, the one corresponding to the program being explained this time) is read. The regular first transmitter ID corresponds one-to-one to one station ID, and the regular second transmitter ID corresponds one-to-one to one bicycle ID.

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

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

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

In addition, in each of the transmitters 30 and 32, an algorithm or an algorithm is used to generate an identification signal so that at least the corresponding one of the station ID, bicycle ID (corresponding ID), and the remaining battery level is reflected. The procedure may be different from the algorithm or procedure shown in FIG. 5.

<Hardware configuration of user's mobile terminal>

Here, to explain one function of the user's mobile terminal 90 in relation to each transmitter 30, 32, the mobile terminal 90 receives an identification signal from each transmitter 30, 32. When a certain program preinstalled on the computer of the terminal 90, that is, a dedicated application for transmitter processing (hereinafter referred to as "transmitter application") is started (login), the received identification signal is demodulated. and thereby decrypt the station ID and bicycle ID.

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

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

Further, when the mobile terminal 90 starts the transmitter application while receiving identification signals from each of the transmitters 30 and 32, the mobile terminal 90 determines, based on the received identification signals, when the identification signal is transmitted. The distance between the position of each transmitter 30, 32 and the position of the mobile terminal 90 when receiving the identification signal is also measured. The distance is measured, for example, based on the strength of the signal received by the mobile terminal 90 from each transmitter 30, 32.

That is, based on the identification signals received from the respective transmitters 30 and 32, the mobile terminal 90 determines the station ID unique to the station 20 where the first transmitter 30 is actually installed and the bicycle 12 selected by the user. Both the unique bicycle ID of the bicycle on which the second transmitter 32 is installed and the distance from each transmitter 30, 32 at that time are acquired.

<Setting the reception range of each transmitter>

As conceptually shown in a plan view in FIG. 6(a), two types of reception areas are assigned to each transmitter 30, 32. These are a receivable area (not shown) and an effective reception area (hereinafter also referred to as "reception range").

Both areas are generally defined by circles originating from each transmitter 30,32. The coverage area has a maximum reception radius (eg, approximately 50 m), whereas the effective reception area has an effective reception radius (eg, a range from a radius of 0 m to a radius of approximately 50 m or less). While the maximum reception radius is a constant value, the effective reception radius is a variable value that can be changed at any time by the mobile terminal 90, as described later.

The receivable area is an area where the identification signal from each transmitter 30, 32 can be reached when the power supply to each transmitter 30, 32 is normal, that is, as long as it exists within that area, the mobile terminal 90 means the area where the identification signal can be received.

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

That is, it is possible that the maximum reception radius means a reception limit determined by hardware, whereas the effective reception radius means a reception limit determined by software.

As described above, the mobile terminal 90 measures the distance to each transmitter 30, 32 at the time it transmitted the identification signal it received. The distance measurement may or may not exceed the effective reception radius. When the measured distance value does not exceed the effective reception radius, it means that the mobile terminal 90 is within the effective reception area, whereas when the measured distance value exceeds the effective reception radius, the mobile terminal 90 exists within the receivable area but not within the effective reception area.

By activating the transmitter processing application, the mobile terminal 90 determines whether the distance measurement value is less than or equal to the set value of the effective reception radius, and if it is determined that the distance measurement value is less than or equal to the set value, the mobile terminal 90 is currently located within the effective reception area (reception range), the mobile terminal 90 "has effectively received the identification signal from each transmitter 30, 32" (hereinafter also referred to simply as "received the identification signal"). )” is determined.

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

That is, in this embodiment, when the mobile terminal 90 is located outside the effective reception area, the mobile terminal 90 appears to be The software will treat this as not having received the identification signal.

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

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

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

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

1) Short range

If the mobile terminal 90 does not touch or hold the mobile terminal 90 over the transmitter of the transmitter in a non-contact state, the mobile terminal 90 cannot effectively receive the transmitter (for example, if the setting value is within a reception range of about 0 cm (within a range of approximately 30cm)

2) Medium range

As long as the user is riding the bicycle 12 or pushing the bicycle 12, the user can touch or hold the mobile terminal 90 over the transmitting section of the transmitter (putting it in a non-contact/approaching state). (The setting value is within the range of about 0 m to about 2 m, for example).

3) Long range

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

In the example shown in FIG. 6(a), the first effective reception area is set so as to completely cover the entire area of the station 20 in plan view, and partially have an area that deviates from the boundary line of the station 20. has been done. Alternatively, in another example, as shown in FIG. 6(b), the first effective reception area may be set so as not to include an area that deviates from the boundary line of the station 20 in plan view. good.

In the two examples shown in FIGS. 6(a) and (b), one first transmitter 30 is installed in one station 20, but instead of this, the example shown in FIG. 6(c) It is also possible to implement the present invention in such a manner that a plurality of first transmitters 30 are installed in one station 20.

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

On the other hand, in yet another example, as shown in FIG. 6(c), if a plurality of first effective reception areas are assigned to the station 20, the combined effective reception areas will be the apparent effective reception area. area, and the gap between the border of this area and the border of station 20 is reduced.

As a result, so-called reception failure, in which the mobile terminal 90 is unable to effectively receive the signal from the first transmitter 30 even though a user carrying the mobile terminal 90 is present in the station 20, is prevented.

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

Here, the mobile terminal 90 identifies (recognizes) the current station 20 because the presence of the user carrying the mobile terminal 90 in the station 20 is detected through cooperation between the mobile terminal 90 and the transmitter 30. This is equivalent to being detected.

<Software configuration of user's mobile terminal>

Next, the hardware configuration of the user's mobile terminal 90 will be described with reference to FIG. 7 which is a functional block diagram. The mobile terminal 90 includes a processor 130 and a memory that stores a plurality of applications executed by the processor 130. The computer 134 has a computer 132 as a main component.

This mobile terminal 90 further includes a display unit (for example, a liquid crystal display) 136 that displays information on a screen (having a window whose area is finite and variable or unchangeable), which is indicated by the symbol “135” in FIG. 15, for example. , a receiving section 138 that receives signals from the first transmitter 30, the second transmitter 32, and the management server 50, and a transmitting section 140 that generates a signal and transmits the signal to the management server 50.

This mobile terminal 90 further includes an input section 150 for inputting data and commands from the user. The input unit 150 includes, for example, an operation unit that can be operated by the user to input desired information (eg, commands, data, etc.) into the mobile terminal 90.

The operating parts include a touch screen that displays icons (e.g., virtual buttons) that can be operated by the user, physical operating parts that can be operated by the user (e.g., a keyboard, keypad, buttons, etc.), and a touch screen that displays user-operable icons (e.g., virtual buttons). Examples include, but are not limited to, a sensing microphone.

This mobile terminal 90 further includes a GPS (satellite positioning system) receiver 152. As is well known, the GPS receiver 152 receives multiple GPS signals from multiple GPS satellites, and determines the position (latitude, longitude, and altitude) of the GPS receiver 152 on the earth based on the GPS signals. Measure by triangulation. That is, this mobile terminal 90 has a positioning function that uses satellites.

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

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

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

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

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

Here, the "small number of candidate stations 20" refers to the plurality of stations 20 that are displayed on the screen 135 for geographical reasons that they are close to the current location of the mobile terminal 90, among the plurality of downloaded stations 20. This means that stations 20 that are outside the screen 135 due to geographical reasons of being far from the current location of the mobile terminal 90 are excluded.

As conceptually shown in FIG. 9, the bicycle data memory 165 in FIG. , displayed in immovable characters on the bicycle 12 by painting, stickers, etc.) and a plurality of authorized second transmitter IDs can be downloaded from the management server 50 and stored. When any one of the plurality of bicycles 12 is selected by the user, one bicycle ID corresponding to it is determined, and in turn, one regular second transmitter ID corresponding to it is determined.

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

As shown in FIG. 11(a), a bicycle rental program for the mobile terminal 90 is stored in the memory 132 of the mobile terminal 90, and the bicycle rental program includes the following plural modules. There is.

1) Reservation module

This is a module that assists the user in reserving one of the bicycles 12 before arriving at the station 20, as will be explained in more detail with reference to FIG. 14 below. Here, "making a reservation" means that the user inputs location information of the desired station 20, identification information of the desired bicycle 12 (an example of rental target identification information), and time information such as the scheduled rental time and scheduled return time. It is equivalent to work.

2) Rental processing module when there is a reservation

This is a module that supports the user in renting out the reserved bicycle 12 at the reserved station 20 according to the user's reservation, as will be described in detail later with reference to FIG.

3) Rental processing module without reservation

As will be described later in detail with reference to FIG. 17, this means that a user can select any available bicycle 12 at any station 20 without making a reservation, and rent out the selected bicycle 12. It is a module that supports receiving.

4) Return processing module

This allows the user to return the rented bicycle 12 at the same or different station 20 from which the bicycle 12 was rented, as will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 18 later. This is a supporting module.

5) Abandoned bicycle search module

As will be described later in detail with reference to FIG. 19, after the bicycle 12 is lent to a user, the user leaves the bicycle 12 at an arbitrary location (an abandoned position) that is not assigned any station 20. This is a module that determines whether or not the

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

Furthermore, within a reference time from the transition (for example, substantially simultaneously with the transition, immediately after the transition, or a predetermined time (for example, 1 minute, 2 minutes, 5 minutes, etc.) has passed since the transition) ) The current position measured by the mobile terminal 90 is recognized as the abandoned position of the abandoned bicycle.

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

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

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

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

6) Abandoned bicycle collection module

As will be described later in detail with reference to FIG. 20, when the abandoned bicycle 12 is discovered, the mobile terminals 90 of a plurality of potential users are notified of the location where the bicycle 12 was left. This is a module that supports users in collecting abandoned bicycles 12 by sending a request all at once to a station 20 to borrow the abandoned bicycles 12 and return them to one of the stations 20. .

<Management server>

Next, the hardware configuration of the management server 50 will be described with reference to FIG. 10, which is a functional block diagram. The main body is a computer 164 having a computer 164.

This management server 50 further includes a display section (for example, a liquid crystal display) 166 that displays information, a receiving section 168 that receives signals from the mobile terminal 90, and a receiver section 168 that generates a signal and transmits the signal to the mobile terminal 90. and a clock 172 that measures the current time. This management server 50 does not directly receive information from the transmitter 30, but actually receives it via the mobile terminal 90.

As shown in FIG. 11(b), the memory 162 of the management server 50 stores a bicycle rental program for the management server 50, and the bicycle rental program includes the following plural modules. There is.

1) Reservation module

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

2) Rental processing module when there is a reservation

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

3) Rental processing module without reservation

This is a module having the same function as the no-reservation rental processing module of the mobile terminal 90, as will be described in detail later with reference to FIG.

4) Return processing module

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

5) Abandoned bicycle search module

This is a module that has the same function as the abandoned bicycle search module of the mobile terminal 90, as will be explained in detail later with reference to FIG.

6) Abandoned bicycle collection module

This is a module that has the same function as the abandoned bicycle collection module of the mobile terminal 90, as will be described in detail later with reference to FIG.

<Overview of reservation sequence>

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

This reservation status table is created and updated in the management server 50, and the latest version is shared with the mobile terminal 90. This reservation status table displays, for each station 20 and each bicycle 12, whether there is a reservation or not and the scheduled rental time period (including date and time).

The user visually views this reservation status table on the screen 135 of his or her mobile terminal 90, searches for a station 20 where at least one bicycle 12 is waiting by referring to it, and selects at least one of the stations 20. Among the one waiting bicycles 12, one with free time is searched and the desired date and time and time zone are specified.

In FIG. 12(a), among the time axes (from 0:00 to 23:59) for each bicycle 12 in the reservation status table, the horizontal bar hatched with diagonal lines is displayed at the latest update time of the reservation status table. The time period in which the bar exists indicates a time period in which a reservation already exists, that is, the time period with a prior reservation, while the time period in which the bar does not exist indicates a time period in which there is no reservation, in other words, the time period without a prior reservation. The obi is displayed.

The user inputs the identification information of the selected station 20, the identification information of the selected bicycle 12, the rental date and time, and the return date and time into his/her mobile terminal 90, as illustrated in FIG. 15(c), As a result, both the corresponding station 20 and bicycle 12 are reserved.

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

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

<Overview of main sequences>

An overview of the main sequences performed by the system 10 subsequent to the above-described reservation sequence will be explained with reference to FIG. 13.

In FIG. 13, the time chart labeled "reception for station recognition" indicates whether or not the mobile terminal 90 is receiving the regular first transmitter ID from the first transmitter 30 at each moment. For convenience of explanation, the pulse signal is expressed as a pulse signal that is low level when the mobile terminal 90 is not receiving the regular first transmitter ID, and is high level when the mobile terminal 90 is receiving the regular first transmitter ID.

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

<Overview of main sequences when there is a reservation>

In FIG. 13(a), the user makes a reservation for the reserved bicycle 12 in the reserved station 20 with a scheduled rental start time (rental time) of 15:00 and a scheduled rental end time (return time) of 18:00. Taking the case as an example, the outline of the main sequence is illustrated using a plurality of time charts.

1) Loan processing

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

Next, the user approaches the reserved bicycle 12 existing in the current station 20 and holds the mobile terminal 90 over the second transmitter 32 installed on the bicycle 12, so that the mobile terminal 90 becomes the second transmitter. Assuming that the mobile terminal 90 enters the effective reception area, the mobile terminal 90 starts to effectively receive the second transmitter 32 (the "bicycle recognition reception signal" in the figure starts).

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

Here, "a state in which the mobile terminal 90 is simultaneously receiving signals from the first transmitter 30 and the second transmitter 32" means that the mobile terminal 90 is receiving the signal from the first transmitter 30 and the second transmitter 32 simultaneously. This means a two-way reception state in which the mobile terminal 90 starts receiving the signal from the first transmitter 30 and the timing when the mobile terminal 90 starts receiving the signal from the second transmitter 32. It is not necessarily required that the timings at which the reception of the signals starts coincide with each other.

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

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

In response to the rental request, the management server 50 allows the user to rent out the bicycle 12. This time is the start time of the actual rental time, but in principle, billing to the user starts from 15:00, which is the scheduled rental time. Specifically, from the scheduled rental time, counting of the total rental time is started, which is referred to in order to calculate the final rental fee amount for the user.

Thereafter, the user exits the rental station 20 while riding the bicycle 12, and at that time, the mobile terminal 90 exits the first effective reception area, so it transitions to a state where it cannot effectively receive the first transmitter 30 ( (The station recognition reception signal falls).

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

2) Return processing

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

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

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

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

In response to the return request, the management server 50 allows the user to return the bicycle 12. Although that time is the end time of the actual rental time, in principle, the billing to the user continues until 18:00, which is the scheduled return time. Specifically, counting of the total rental time ends at the scheduled return time.

After that, assuming that the mobile terminal 90 leaves the second effective reception area because the user gets off the bicycle 12, the mobile terminal 90 transitions to a state where it cannot effectively receive the second transmitter 32, and the bicycle recognition The received signal falls. Thereafter, this bicycle recognition reception signal is maintained at a low level because the user is not riding the bicycle 12 at this time.

Next, assuming that the mobile terminal 90 has left the first effective reception area because the user has moved away from the bicycle 12 and exited the current return station 20, the mobile terminal 90 activates the second transmitter 32. (The station recognition reception signal falls).

When the calculation of the rental fee based on the length of the total rental time is completed in the management server 50, the user electronically settles the rental fee via the mobile terminal 90.

<Summary of main sequence when there is no reservation>

FIG. 13(b) shows an overview of the main sequence, taking as an example a case where the user enters any station 20, selects any bicycle 12 in that station 20, and starts the rental service. Illustrated with multiple time charts. These time charts are basically the same as those shown in FIG. 13(a) except for billing processing, so common elements will be briefly explained.

1) Loan processing

First, the user enters any station (rental station) 20 at 15:30 on a certain day in order to rent any bicycle 12, and the mobile terminal 90 enters the first effective reception area. Assuming that, the mobile terminal 90 starts effectively receiving the first transmitter 30.

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

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

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

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

In response to the rental request, the management server 50 allows the user to rent out the bicycle 12. This time is the start time of the actual rental time, and in this case, billing to the user starts from 15:30, which is the actual rental time. Specifically, counting of the total rental time is started from the actual rental time.

Thereafter, the user exits the rental station 20 while riding the bicycle 12, and at that time, the mobile terminal 90 exits the first effective reception area, and thus transitions to a state in which the first transmitter 30 cannot be effectively received.

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

2) Return processing

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

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

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

Subsequently, the user inputs a return request into the mobile terminal 90 within the second time limit from the usage end time.

In response to the return request, the management server 50 allows the user to return the bicycle 12. This time is the end time of the actual rental time, and billing to the user continues until 17:30, which is the actual return time. Specifically, counting of the total rental time ends at the actual return time.

After that, assuming that the mobile terminal 90 leaves the second effective reception area because the user gets off the bicycle 12, the mobile terminal 90 transitions to a state where it cannot effectively receive the second transmitter 32, and the bicycle recognition The received signal falls. Thereafter, this bicycle recognition reception signal is maintained at a low level because the user is not riding the bicycle 12 at this time.

Next, assuming that the mobile terminal 90 has left the first effective reception area because the user has moved away from the bicycle 12 and exited the current return station 20, the mobile terminal 90 activates the second transmitter 32. The state changes to a state in which reception is not possible.

When the calculation of the rental fee based on the length of the total rental time is completed in the management server 50, the user electronically settles the rental fee via the mobile terminal 90.

<Reservation sequence>

In FIG. 14, a user connects a mobile terminal 90 to the management server 90 at a location away from the station 20 he or she wishes to reserve (for example, at home as shown in FIG. 1), and selects one of the bicycles within the station 20. An example of communication performed between the mobile terminal 90 and the management server 50 located at a remote location in order to make a reservation for 12 is chronologically expressed as a sequence flow.

When the bicycle rental program (already downloaded from the management server 50 and installed in the memory 132 of the mobile terminal 90) is started by the user on the mobile terminal 90, the user can make multiple modes and multiple requests. A plurality of buttons (display targets selectable by the user) that are operated to emit a message are displayed on the screen of the mobile terminal 90.

Multiple modes and multiple requests include:

1) Reservation mode

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

2) Rental processing mode when there is a reservation

an execution mode selected by a user for activating the rental-on-reservation processing module for renting a bicycle 12 at the station 20 in an on-reservation state;

3) Rental processing mode without reservation

an execution mode selected by the user to activate the no-reservation rental processing module for renting a bicycle 12 at the station 20 without a reservation;

4) Return processing mode

an execution mode selected by the user to activate the return processing module to return the bicycle 12 to the station 20;

5) Loan request

A request issued by the user for permission to lend the bicycle 12 to the user after the activation of the rental processing module with reservation or the rental processing module without reservation.

6) Return request

A request issued by the user for permission to return the bicycle 12 after the return processing module is activated.

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

When the reservation module for the mobile terminal 90 is executed by the processor 130 of the mobile terminal 90, first, in step 101, the mobile terminal 90 determines the user's current location ( It operates so that the latitude and longitude) are measured.

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

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

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

On the other hand, when the reservation module for the management server 50 is executed by the processor 160 of the management server 50, the management server 50 receives the login request together with the user ID and password in step S201, and subsequently receives the login request in step S201. In S202, the station data regarding the plurality of stations 20 (see FIG. 8 for the plurality of components of the station data) and the bicycle data regarding the plurality of bicycles 12 belonging to these stations 20 (the plurality of bicycle data) For the components, see FIG. 9) and the reservation status table (see FIG. 12(a)) in the memory 162 (or another memory) of the management server 50.

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

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

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

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

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

In this embodiment, for convenience of explanation, the part of the system 10 that executes step S105 constitutes an example of the "candidate station display section" and the "candidate station display step" in the above section (8). It is possible to think that there is.

Note that step S105 is the same as that in the return process sequence flow, which will be described in detail later with reference to FIG. For example, it is possible to select from among the candidates by considering the distance to the user's current location, the distance to the user's nearest station, etc.

Subsequently, in step S106, the user selects one of the candidate stations 20 as the currently selected station 20 by touching the display position of one of the candidate stations 20 with a finger on the screen 135.

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

Thereafter, in step S107, the reservation status table is displayed on the screen 135, as illustrated in FIG. 15(b).

Subsequently, in step S108, as illustrated in FIG. 15(c), the user enters identification information (for example, name) of the station (rental station) 20 that the user wishes to reserve, and identification information of the bicycle (rental bicycle) 12 that the user wishes to reserve. (For example, number), rental date and time (scheduled), and return date and time (scheduled). Here, inputting the identification information of the bicycle 12 that the user wants to reserve into the mobile terminal 90 is equivalent to the user performing an operation on the mobile terminal 90 to select one of the bicycles 12.

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

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

In response, the management server 50 receives the reservation details in association with the user (for example, together with the user ID) in step S204. Subsequently, in step S205, the management server 50 registers the received reservation content in the one associated with the current user among the plurality of user-specific reservation content files (see FIG. 12(b)). Furthermore, the reservation status table stored in the memory 162 is updated to reflect the received reservation details.

Thereafter, in step S206, the management server 50 transmits a message to the mobile terminal 90 indicating that the reservation has been completed.

In response, the mobile terminal 90 displays the received message on the screen 135 or outputs it as a sound. By this display, the user is informed that his or her reservation has been established.

<Rental processing sequence when there is a reservation>

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

The first and second transmitters 30 and 32 both spontaneously and continuously transmit their own unique identification signals. When the user enters the reserved station 20, the mobile terminal 90 will be present within the first effective reception area of the first transmitter 30 (see FIG. 6). 1. The identification signal from the transmitter 30 is effectively received. Eventually, when the user holds the mobile terminal 90 over the second transmitter 32 of the reserved bicycle 12, the mobile terminal 90 will be present within the second effective reception area of the second transmitter 32 ( (See Figure 6).

In this embodiment, the reception range of the first effective reception area of the first transmitter 30 is set to the long range, and the reception range of the second effective reception area of the second transmitter 32 is set as the long range, regardless of whether or not there is a reservation. is considered to be the short range. This setting is valid regardless of whether it is a lending process or a return process.

This time, the user selects a button labeled "Rental with reservation mode" on the screen of the mobile terminal 90. In response, a reservation-only lending processing module for the mobile terminal 90 is executed by the mobile terminal 90. As a result of the execution, first, in step 151, the mobile terminal 90 transmits a login request for logging into the management server 50 to the management server 50 together with a user ID and password for identifying the current user.

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

Subsequently, in step S252, the memory 162 is searched for one associated with the current user among the plurality of user-specific reservation content files. Furthermore, in the searched user-specific reservation content file, information regarding the reserved station 20 (rental station) among the plurality of stations 20 and the reserved bicycle 12 among the plurality of bicycles 12 at the station 20 are included. (Rental Bicycle) is searched as information related to the current user reservation.

Thereafter, in step S253, the retrieved current user reservation related information is transmitted to the mobile terminal 90.

In response, the mobile terminal 90 receives the current user reservation related information in step S152. Subsequently, in step S153, in the current user reservation related information, the transmitter code pre-assigned to the regular first transmitter 30 that should be installed at the reserved station 20 is the regular first transmitter code. At the same time, the transmitter code assigned in advance to the authorized second transmitter 32 that should be installed on the reserved bicycle 12 is searched as the authorized second transmitter code. . The authorized first and second transmitter codes for the user are obtained.

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

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

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

Such circumstances apply to the second transmitter 32 as well.

The mobile terminal 90 is capable of receiving a plurality of signals from a plurality of transmitters simultaneously and distinguishably from each other. Each transmitter emits a unique signal, for example, the source address (corresponding to the transmitter ID) in the header of each packet of that signal is different from that of other transmitters. Taking this into consideration, the mobile terminal 90 can individually handle a plurality of signals received simultaneously.

Therefore, following step S154, in step S155, the mobile terminal 90 performs the following three types of determination.

1) A first valid reception determination as to whether the mobile terminal 90 has effectively received the identification signal from the first transmitter 30, that is, the measured value of the distance between the mobile terminal 90 and the first transmitter 30 is the first valid reception determination. Determining whether the reception area is smaller than the effective reception radius (long range)

2) A second valid reception determination as to whether the mobile terminal 90 has effectively received the identification signal from the second transmitter 32, that is, the measured value of the distance between the mobile terminal 90 and the second transmitter 32 is the second valid reception determination. Determining whether the reception area is smaller than the effective reception radius (short range)

3) Simultaneous reception determination as to whether or not the mobile terminal 90 receives signals from the first transmitter 30 and the second transmitter 32 at the same time, that is, the timing when the first valid reception determination of the first transmitter 30 is affirmed and the second Determining whether or not the timing at which the first valid reception determination of the transmitter 32 was affirmed was made at substantially the same time.

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

When executing step 155, if any of the first valid reception determination, second valid reception determination, and simultaneous reception determination is negative, the determination in step 155 becomes NO and the process returns to step S154. On the other hand, if any of the first valid reception determination, second valid reception determination, and simultaneous reception determination are positive, the determination in step 155 becomes YES, and the process moves to step S156.

In step S156, the mobile terminal 90 demodulates the received identification signal, and then in step S157, the mobile terminal 90 converts the transmitter ID represented by the demodulated identification signal into the actual transmitter ID. decipher as . Specifically, the mobile terminal 90 uses the real first transmitter ID represented by the signal received from the first transmitter 30 and the real second transmitter ID represented by the signal received from the second transmitter 32. and get.

If the demodulated identification signal is a code expressed in a multi-digit binary number, for example, the code is a conversion table prepared in advance (for example, one downloaded in advance from the management server 50). is used to convert it into a transmitter ID. However, in terms of usage, the difference between "code" and "ID" is not important as long as the purpose is for identification.

Subsequently, in step S158, the mobile terminal 90 determines whether the real first and second real transmitter IDs thus decoded and the regular first and second real transmitter IDs obtained by executing step S153 are the same. It is determined whether or not they match each other. That is, ID verification is performed.

Here, the "actual first transmitter ID" is the first transmitter actually installed at the station actually selected and visited by the user among the plurality of stations 20 (selected real first transmitter ID). 30; on the other hand, the "regular first transmitter ID" is the first transmitter ID corresponding to the station 20 that is virtually selected by the user by operating the mobile terminal 90 from among the plurality of stations 20. It means the first transmitter ID corresponding to the first transmitter (selected virtual first transmitter) 30 that is supposed to be installed in the object.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Here, the timing at which the determination in step S159 becomes YES is the timing at which the mobile terminal 90 transitions from a state in which it does not receive the authorized second transmitter ID to a state in which it receives it (in the example of FIG. coincides with the temporal position of the ``rising edge'' of the ``signal'').

Thereafter, in step S162, the user inputs a lending request into the mobile terminal 90 (for example, the user operates a virtual button (e.g., "Rent button") that is operated to issue the "Rent request"). It is determined whether or not. If a lending request has been input, the determination in step S162 is YES.

Subsequently, in step S163, it is determined that the user has issued a rental request and that the user has actually started using the reserved bicycle 12 at the currently reserved station 20. is associated with the user (for example, together with the user ID) and is transmitted to the management server 50.

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

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

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

Above, we have explained the case where the user successfully issues a lending request immediately after the mobile terminal 90 effectively receives two legitimate transmitters 30 and 32 at the same time (both reception status is established). If not, the determination in step S162 becomes NO, and then, in step S164, it is determined whether the elapsed time from the execution time of step S161 is currently within the first time limit (for example, 5 minutes). be done.

If it is within the first time limit, the determination in step S164 becomes YES, and in step S165, the user is prompted to input a lending request by displaying an appropriate message on the screen 135 or by voice. It is prompted by something such as being output. Then, the process returns to step S162.

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

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

<Rental processing sequence without reservation>

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

This time, the user selects a button labeled "No reservation lending processing mode" on the screen of the mobile terminal 90. In response, a no-reservation rental processing module for the mobile terminal 90 is executed by the mobile terminal 90.

By executing this, first, in step 201, a login request for logging into the management server 50 is sent to the management server 50 along with a user ID and password for identifying the current user, as in step S151 described above. Ru.

On the other hand, when the management server 50 executes the no-reservation lending processing module for the management server 50, the management server 50, in step S271, sends the login request with the user ID and Receive it with your password.

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

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

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

Thereafter, in step S205, the mobile terminal 90 performs the first effective reception determination, the second effective reception determination, and the simultaneous reception determination, similarly to the above-described step S155.

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

In this step S206, the mobile terminal 90 demodulates the received identification signal, similar to the aforementioned step S156, and then, in step S207, the mobile terminal 90 demodulates the received identification signal, similar to the aforementioned step S157. The real first transmitter ID of the first transmitter 30 and the real second transmitter ID of the second transmitter 32 are obtained from the identified identification signal.

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

Furthermore, in step S208, the user inputs the current scheduled return time for the bicycle 12 into the mobile terminal 90.

After that, in step S209, the mobile terminal 90 extracts the individual reservation status corresponding to the current station 20 and the current bicycle 12 from the reservation status table, and the reserved time slot of the individual reservation status is It is determined whether there is no overlap with the scheduled usage time period from the current actual lending time to the scheduled return time, that is, whether there is no prior agreement.

If there is a prior agreement, the determination in step S209 becomes NO, and then in step S210, similarly to step S160, the mobile terminal 90 once again asks the user to send the first transmitter 30 and It prompts to try again to detect the second transmitter 32. After that, the process returns to step S204.

On the other hand, if there is no prior agreement, the determination in step S209 becomes YES, and then, in step S211, the mobile terminal 90 determines that the bicycle 12 to be rented out is present at the current station 20 at the current time. It is determined that there is. This determination is equivalent to the determination that the user has started using the current bicycle 12 at the current station 20 (the bicycle 12 has been lent).

Thereafter, in step S212, similarly to step S162 described above, it is determined whether a lending request has been input by the user to the mobile terminal 90. If a lending request has been input, the determination in step S212 is YES.

Subsequently, in step S213, in accordance with step S163 described above, the determination result that the user has actually started using the current bicycle 12 at the current station 20 (the bicycle 12 has been lent) is associated with the user. and transmitted to the management server 50 (for example, together with the user ID).

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

On the other hand, in step S274, the management server 50 receives the information transmitted by the mobile terminal 90 by executing step S213, similarly to step S254 described above.

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

Thereafter, in step S278, the billing start time is determined for each user, similar to step S258 described above. Subsequently, in step S279, the contents of the current rental, that is, the information including the identification information of the rental station 20, the identification information of the rental bicycle 12, the actual rental time, and the scheduled return time, are combined with the plurality of user-specific reservations. Among the content files (see FIG. 12(b)), it is registered in the one associated with the current user.

Further, in step S278, the reservation status table stored in the memory 162 is updated to reflect the current rental details.

The case where the determination in step S212 is YES has been described above, but if the determination is NO, in step S214, as in step S164 described above, the time elapsed from the execution time of step S211 is currently limited to the first limit. It is determined whether the time is within.

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

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

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

<Return processing sequence>

In FIG. 18, a user rides and drives a borrowed bicycle 12, or while pushing the borrowed bicycle 12, the user goes to the same or different station (return station) from the rental station. 20, and then, in order to receive permission to return the bicycle 12, a first transmitter 30 located at that station 20 and a second transmitter 32 installed on that bicycle 12 are used to make a reservation. An example of communication performed between the user's mobile terminal 90 and the management server 50 in order to obtain permission to return the bicycle 12 that was left behind is shown in a chronological sequence flow.

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

By executing this, first, in step 300, a login request for logging into the management server 50 is sent to the management server 50 along with a user ID and password for identifying the current user, as in step S151 described above. Ru.

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

On the other hand, in step S302, the mobile terminal 90 performs the first valid reception determination, the second valid reception determination, and the simultaneous reception determination, similarly to the above-described step S155.

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

In this step S303, the mobile terminal 90 demodulates the received identification signal as in the aforementioned step S156, and then in step S304 as in the aforementioned step S157, the mobile terminal 90 demodulates the received identification signal. The real first transmitter ID of the first transmitter 30 and the real second transmitter ID of the second transmitter 32 are obtained from the identified identification signal.

Subsequently, in step S305, the user determines that the current station (return station) 20 and current bicycle (return bicycle) 12 have been selected as a result of reception from the first transmitter 30 and the second transmitter 32. displayed on screen 135. Thereby, the user confirms the station 20 and bicycle 12 that he or she has selected.

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

Thereafter, in step S306, the user inputs a return request into the mobile terminal 90 in accordance with step S162 described above (e.g., a virtual button (e.g., "return button") operated to issue the "return request"). ) has been operated. If a return request has been input, the determination in step S306 is YES.

Subsequently, in step S307, it is confirmed that the user has issued a return request in accordance with step S163 described above, and that the user has actually finished using the current bicycle 12 at the current station 20 (the return is not carried out). The determination result (the identification information of the current return station 20 and the identification information of the current return bicycle 12) is associated with the user (for example, together with the user ID) and is transmitted to the management server 50.

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

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

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

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

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

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

In response, the mobile terminal 90 receives information such as the rental amount from the management server 50 in step S308, and then displays the rental amount on the screen in step S309. Thereafter, in step S310, the user makes an electronic payment.

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

In response, the management server 50 receives the logout request in step S409. Subsequently, in step S410, an acknowledgment signal ACK indicating that reception of the logout request has been successfully completed is transmitted to the mobile terminal 90.

In response, the mobile terminal 90 receives the acknowledgment signal ACK from the management server 50 in step S312.

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

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

On the other hand, if the elapsed time from the execution time of step S305 currently exceeds the second time limit, the determination in step S313 becomes NO, and then, in step S315, the second violation occurs by the user. It is determined that Subsequently, in step S316, information that the second violation has occurred by the user is transmitted to the management server 50.

<Abandoned bicycle search sequence>

FIG. 19 shows a method for determining whether or not the user got on the borrowed bicycle 12 and drove it, and then got off the bicycle 12 at a place other than the station 20 for some reason and abandoned it. An example of communication performed between the second transmitter 32 installed on the bicycle 12, the user's mobile terminal 90, and the management server 50 is represented in a chronological sequence flow.

This abandoned bicycle search sequence is started when the user borrows any bicycle 12 and the rental process is completed.

First, the user's mobile terminal 90 attempts reception from the first and/or second transmitters 30 and 32 in step S1901. Next, in step S1902, the mobile terminal 90 receives valid reception from any of the first transmitters 30 (for example, the mobile terminal 90 is in the first reception range (for example, the distance from any of the first transmitters 30 is approximately 10 m)). ).

If the mobile terminal 90 is effectively receiving signals from any of the first transmitters 30, it means that the user is staying in any of the stations 20 with the bicycle 12, and in this case, this It is not necessary to execute an abandoned bicycle search sequence.

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

Here, for convenience of explanation, in the time chart shown in FIG. This level is expressed as low level L. This notation method is the same for other time charts regarding the second transmitter.

Subsequently, the mobile terminal 90 attempts reception from the first and/or second transmitters 30 and 32 in step S1903. Thereafter, in step S1904, this time, the mobile terminal 90 receives valid reception from any of the second transmitters 32 (for example, when the mobile terminal 90 is in a second reception range shorter than the first reception range (for example, from any of the second transmitters). 32 is located within about 5 meters).

If the mobile terminal 90 is effectively receiving signals from any of the second transmitters 32, this means that there is a high possibility that the user is riding the bicycle 12, as illustrated in FIG. 21(a). However, in this case as well, it is unnecessary to execute this abandoned bicycle search sequence.

If the mobile terminal 90 is not effectively receiving signals from any of the second transmitters 32, the determination in step S1904 is NO, and the process returns to step S1903; If the information has been received effectively, the determination in step S1904 is YES.

A YES determination in step S1904 is equivalent to determining that the current user is riding the current bicycle 12.

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

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

Thereafter, the mobile terminal 90 attempts reception from the first and/or second transmitters 30 and 32 in step S1906. Subsequently, in step S1907, valid reception is received from the same second transmitter 32 as the second transmitter 32 determined to be valid reception in step S1904 (for example, the mobile terminal 90 within the second reception range).

That is, in step S1907, the mobile terminal 90 sends a signal representing the same bicycle ID as the bicycle ID represented by the signal that the mobile terminal 90 effectively received from the second transmitter 32 in step S1904 to the second transmitter ( It is determined whether the mobile terminal 90 is effectively receiving the signal from the same transmitter) 32 as the previous time.

As illustrated in FIG. 21(b), when the user abandons the current bicycle 12 and leaves it unattended, the user's mobile terminal 90 is separated from or evacuated from the second transmitter 32 mounted on the bicycle 12. , As a result, the mobile terminal 90 deviates from the second reception range. Then, the mobile terminal 90 transitions from the receiving state where it was able to effectively receive from the second transmitter 32, which is the same as the previous time, to the non-receiving state where it cannot receive effectively.

If the mobile terminal 90 is still effectively receiving from the same second transmitter 32 as last time, the determination in step S1907 is YES, and the process returns to step S1906. If the determination in step S1907 is YES, it means that the current user is riding the current bicycle 12 (sitting on the saddle 62 of the bicycle 12, or riding/moving on the bicycle 12). This is equivalent to determining that

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

As shown in FIGS. 22(a) and 22(b), this determination result indicates that when the mobile terminal 90 is not effectively receiving a signal from the first transmitter 30 (during the period), the second This is equivalent to determining that there has been a transition from a receiving state in which signals are effectively received from the transmitter 32 to a non-receiving state in which signals are not effectively received.

This determination result further determines that during a period in which the user, mobile terminal 90, and bicycle 12 are not present at any station 20, the user changes from riding the bicycle 12 to dismounting the bicycle 12 (for example, , a state in which the vehicle is separated from the bicycle 12).

Note that in this embodiment, it is determined whether or not the user, the mobile terminal 90, and the bicycle 12 are present at any of the stations 20 using the first transmitter 30 installed at each station 20. However, instead of this, the GPS of the mobile terminal 90 is used to determine whether the current positions of the user and the mobile terminal 90 measured by the GPS do not match the map positions of any of the stations 20. The present invention may be implemented in such a manner that it is determined whether

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

Thereafter, in step S1910, the mobile terminal 90 asks the user who has separated from the bicycle 12 to ride the bicycle 12 to any station 20 and return it there, instead of leaving the bicycle 12 alone. An icon and/or message is displayed on the screen 135 to remind the user.

Subsequently, in step S1911, the mobile terminal 90 determines whether the mobile terminal 90 has started to effectively receive information from the current second transmitter 32 because the user has ridden the current bicycle 12 again. . If effective reception from the second transmitter 32 has started this time, this determination becomes YES, and then the process returns to step S1901.

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

If the determination in step S1912 is NO, the process returns to step S1910, but if the determination in step S1912 is YES, in step S1913, the mobile terminal 90 determines whether the current bicycle 12 is determined to be an abandoned bicycle. As a result, the abandoned bicycle will be discovered.

As described above, in the present embodiment, the mobile terminal 90 determines that the elapsed time from the start time of the non-receiving state of the second transmitter 32 exceeds the time limit (the "predetermined time" in the above-mentioned section (4)). Then, bicycle 12 is recognized as an abandoned bicycle.

Here, the length of the "time limit" may be set according to the convenience of the rental company, but it may be determined by the time when the user stops the bicycle 12, gets off the bicycle, and starts waiting for the bicycle 12 (from the receiving state to the non-receiving state). The length of the waiting time from the time when the bicycle 12 transitions to the receiving state) to the time when the user eventually returns to the bicycle 12 and starts using the bicycle 12 again (the time when the non-receiving state changes to the receiving state). You can set it according to your convenience and schedule.

In order to prevent another person from starting to use the bicycle 12 without permission during the waiting period, the original user must lock the electronic lock of the bicycle 12 before leaving the bicycle 12. When the use of the bicycle 12 is resumed, the mobile terminal 90 or the management server 50 may send an unlock signal to the electronic lock to unlock the electronic lock.

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

Instead of or in addition to these abandonment determination methods, the mobile terminal 90 may visually, audibly, or haptically notify the user after the second transmitter 32 starts to be in a non-receiving state. If the user does not respond to the prompting to the mobile terminal 90 by stimulating the user to return the current bicycle 12 to one of the stations, the current bicycle 12 is recognized as an abandoned bicycle. good.

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

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

Thereafter, in step S1952, the management server 50 determines that although the current bicycle 12 has not actually been returned to any station 20, the abandoned position of the bicycle 12 is effectively set as a temporary rental station 20. Since the same bicycle 12 will be handled and lent to another user, the determination that an abandoned bicycle 12 exists is assumed to mean that the bicycle 12 has been returned. In other words, the act of abandonment is treated as an act of deemed return.

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

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

Thereafter, in step S1957, the management server 50 calculates a surcharge as a penalty to be imposed on the user because the user has not returned the bicycle 12 to any station 20.

Subsequently, in step S1958, as illustrated in FIG. 23, the management server 50 stores the identification information of the user who left the bicycle 12 this time, the bicycle ID that identifies the bicycle 12, and the abandoned position ( x, y), the start time of its abandonment (i.e., for example, the deemed return time or the time of transition from the receiving state to the non-receiving state of the second transmitter 32), and the task of collecting the bicycle 12 by another user. Information indicating whether the task has been started and information indicating whether the task has been completed are stored in the memory 162 in association with each other. As a result, the abandoned bicycle list is registered in the memory 162.

Furthermore, in step S1958, the management server 50 updates the reservation status table so that the rental information regarding the current bicycle 12 is deleted from the reservation status table.

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

In response, the mobile terminal 90 receives information such as the total rental amount from the management server 50 in step S1916, and then displays the total rental amount on the screen 135 in step S1917. Thereafter, in step S1918, electronic payment by the user is enabled.

<Abandoned bicycle collection sequence>

In FIG. 20, when an abandoned bicycle 12 is discovered, a device is installed on the bicycle 12 in order to lend the abandoned bicycle 12 to another user at the abandoned position and have the user return it to any station 20. An example of communication performed between the second transmitter 32, another user's mobile terminal 90, and the management server 50 is represented in a chronological sequence flow.

This abandoned bicycle recovery sequence is started when the abandoned bicycle 12 is discovered by the aforementioned abandoned bicycle search sequence.

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

In contrast, each of the other users' mobile terminals 90 receives the abandoned bicycle data transmitted from the management server 50 in step S2001. Subsequently, in step S2002, the device measures its current position using GPS. Thereafter, in step S2003, a map in the vicinity of the current position (indicated by a black triangle 202 in the figure) is displayed on the screen 135, as illustrated in FIG.

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

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

If the mobile terminals 90 of the other users do not receive signals effectively from any of the second transmitters 32, the determination in step S2006 is NO, and the process returns to step S2005.

On the other hand, as illustrated in FIG. 21(c), one of the plurality of potential users (hereinafter referred to as "other user") uses the other user's mobile terminal 90. Assume that the user approaches one of the parked bicycles 12 in order to borrow it, relying on the above-mentioned guidance information displayed on the screen 135.

Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 21(d), another user rides the parked bicycle 12, and as a result, the mobile terminal 90 of the other user effectively receives signals from one of the second transmitters 32. Assume that In this case, the determination in step S2006 is YES.

Thereafter, in step S2007, the other user's mobile terminal 90 identifies the abandoned bicycle 12 on which the second transmitter 32 is supposed to be mounted, based on the identification signal that has been effectively received from one of the second transmitters 32. Obtain a bicycle ID.

Next, in step S2008, the other user's mobile terminal 90 determines whether the acquired bicycle ID matches any of the bicycle IDs of at least one abandoned bicycle 12 stored in the memory 132. Determine. If it does not match the bicycle ID of any of the parked bicycles 12, the determination in step S2008 becomes NO and the process returns to step S2005, but if it matches the bicycle ID of any parked bicycle 12, the determination in step S2008 becomes YES.

Thereafter, in step S2009, the other user's mobile terminal 90 determines the time at which the user plans to return the current bicycle 12, that is, a certain abandoned bicycle 12, to one of the stations 20 after borrowing and using it. Help you type.

Subsequently, in step S2010, the mobile terminal 90 of another user inputs a rental request for the bicycle 12 (e.g., a virtual button operated to instruct a "rental request" (for example, a "rental button"). ”) was operated by the user. If a lending request has been input, the determination in step S2010 is YES.

Thereafter, in step S2011, the other user's mobile terminal 90 associates the fact that the user has issued a lending request and the fact that the user has started using the current bicycle 12 with the user (for example, the user ID) to the management server 50.

In contrast, in step S2053, the management server 50 receives the information transmitted by the mobile terminals 90 of the other users by executing step S2011. Thereafter, in step S2054, the abandoned bicycle table illustrated in FIG. 23 is updated so that information about the current bicycle 12 is deleted from the abandoned bicycle table.

Subsequently, in step S2055, the management server 50 measures the current time using the clock 172, similarly to step S255 described above. Subsequently, in step S2056, the current time is recognized as the actual lending time, similar to step S256 described above. Subsequently, in step S2057, similar to step S257 described above, the current bicycle 12 (this time, an abandoned bicycle) is permitted to be lent to the user.

Thereafter, in step S2058, the management server 50 determines the billing start time for the user, similarly to step S258 described above. Subsequently, the management server 50 transmits the necessary information to the other user's mobile terminal 90, thereby allowing the user to know that the bicycle 12 has been rented at the abandoned position and that billing has started.

As will be described later, the present invention can be implemented in a manner in which the first transmitter 30 is not installed in each station 20, but in this embodiment, the first transmitter 30 is installed in each station 20. Since it is installed, the effects resulting from it can be obtained.

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

Therefore, the rental company can remotely monitor in real time whether the number of stored bicycles 12 is excessive or insufficient for each station 20, and can prevent a user from using a station 20 where the number of stored bicycles 12 is insufficient. It is possible to guide potential users in such a way as to encourage users to use stations 20 where the number of bicycles 12 stored is somewhat excessive.

In this way, multiple users will work on behalf of the rental company to optimally distribute the stored bicycles 12 among the multiple stations 20, so the rental company will not have to go to the trouble of visiting each station 20. The need to go to each station 20 and perform work to eliminate excess or shortage of stored bicycles 12 is reduced.

Note that in this embodiment, the first transmitter 30 is installed at each station 20, and therefore it is difficult to determine whether the user is currently staying at one of the stations 20 or at a place other than the station 20 (i.e., In addition to being able to determine whether the user is currently staying at any station 20, it is also possible to determine which station 20 the user is currently staying at.

However, instead of the first transmitter 30, a display object (an immovable display object or a variable display object) that displays a graphic that visualizes a code (for example, a bar code or a QR code (registered trademark)) that can identify each station 20 is used. ) may be implemented at each station 20.

<Second embodiment>

A system 10 according to a second exemplary embodiment of the invention will now be described with reference to FIGS. 25-28. However, parts common to the system 10 according to the first embodiment will be referred to using the same reference numerals and names to omit redundant explanation, and only different parts will be described in detail.

In the first embodiment described above, in order to carry out a one-way bicycle rental business which is basically station-type, a plurality of bicycles 12 are temporarily installed at a plurality of stations 20 whose positions are fixedly allocated on land. Bicycles 12 are parked at stations 20, and bicycles 12 are rented and returned at each station 20. Furthermore, a first transmitter 30 is installed at each station 20.

In contrast, in this embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 25, the bicycle 12 is rented and returned at any location in order to carry out a free floating one-way bicycle rental business. Of course, the first transmitter 30 is not installed at such an arbitrary location.

In the example shown in FIG. 25, a certain user . When user X eventually reaches his goal, he selects another on-street bicycle parking lot 300 and returns the bicycle 12 there.

Therefore, in this embodiment, there is no concept of abandoning the bicycle 12, but in the first embodiment described above, the term "abandonment" may be synonymous with the term "return". There was sex.

Therefore, the term "return" in this embodiment refers to "return (return by the person to any station 20, an act of preparation for lending the bicycle 12 to another person at that station 20)" in the first embodiment. )" and "leaving the bicycle 12 at the place where it is left (an act of preparing to lend it to another person)."

<Lending sequence>

In FIG. 26, a lending process module executed by the user's mobile terminal 90 to execute the lending process and a lending process module executed by the management server 50 to execute the lending process are shown in the lending sequence. Represented as a flow.

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

In response, the management server 50 receives the login request in step S2651. Subsequently, in step S2652, the management server 50 searches the memory 162 for storage location data representing the locations of the plurality of storage locations 300 where the bicycles 12 are currently stored.

The plurality of storage locations 300 effectively function as a plurality of temporary stations for the user (arbitrary locations where bicycles 12 can be temporarily rented and returned). Thereafter, in step S2653, the management server 50 transmits storage location data representing the map positions (x, y) of these storage locations 300 to the mobile terminal 90 in association with each temporary station ID.

In response, the mobile terminal 90 receives the transmitted storage location data and stores it in the memory 132 in step S2602. Subsequently, in step S2603, the mobile terminal 90 measures its own current position, that is, the current position of the user, using GPS.

Thereafter, in step S2604, the mobile terminal 90 displays a map near the current location on the screen 135, and further displays a map near the current location among the plurality of saved storage locations 300 (i.e., temporary stations 300). Display things as an overlay on the displayed map.

This allows the user to know several temporary stations 300 that exist near his or her current location. Thereafter, the user selects one of the temporary stations 300 and moves toward that location, and eventually the user approaches that temporary station 300 and the bicycle 12 located there.

Subsequently, in step S2605, the mobile terminal 90 requests the user to touch or hold the mobile terminal 90 over the second transmitter 32 to receive the signal from the second transmitter 32 mounted on one of the bicycles 12. (or request that the mobile terminal 90 be brought close to the second transmitter 32, but not so far as to hold it over the second transmitter 32 (or, if the user is riding the bicycle 12, the mobile terminal The mobile terminal 90 can effectively receive signals from the second transmitter 32 without holding the transmitter 90 over the second transmitter 32 (the medium range may also be used).

Thereafter, in step S2606, the mobile terminal 90 determines whether or not the mobile terminal 90 has transitioned from a non-receiving state in which it does not effectively receive a signal from any second transmitter 32 to a receiving state in which it effectively receives a signal. If there is no such transition, the determination in step S2606 is NO and the process returns to step S2605, but if there is such a transition and the determination in step S2606 is YES, the process moves to step S2607.

As illustrated in FIG. 28, before the user rides the bicycle 12 and in a state where the user is far from the second transmitter 32, the mobile terminal 90 cannot effectively receive signals from the second transmitter 32. Conceptually, the received signal at that time is at low level L. Eventually, as the user approaches the second transmitter 32 or rides the bicycle 12, the mobile terminal 90 begins to receive effective signals from the second transmitter 32. Conceptually, the received signal at that time is at a high level H.

In step S2607 described above, the mobile terminal 90 determines that "lending has started". Subsequently, in step S2608, the device measures its current position using GPS. The position is the user's current position, the position of one temporary station 300 (this time functioning as a rental station) where the user is currently located, and one of the cars parked at that temporary station 300. This is also the location of the bicycle 12.

Thereafter, in step S2609, the mobile terminal 90 acquires the bicycle ID corresponding to the current bicycle 12 from the validly received signal. The bicycle ID is stored in the memory 132 as a rental bicycle ID. Next, in step S2610, the rental bicycle ID is displayed on the screen 135, and furthermore, a "rent button" which is an icon operated by the user to request to rent the bicycle 12 is displayed on the screen 135. do.

Thereafter, in step S2611, the mobile terminal 90 displays the bicycle ID displayed on the bicycle 12 actually selected by the user (for example, "2001" in the example shown in FIG. 1(b)) and the bicycle ID displayed on the screen 135. Since the displayed bicycle IDs match each other, it is determined whether the user has operated the "rent button".

If the user does not operate the "Rent button", the determination in step S2611 becomes NO and the process returns to the same step S2611, but if the user operates the "Rent button", the determination in step S2611 becomes YES and the process returns to step S2611. In S2612, the fact that the user has issued a rental request for the current bicycle 12 is recorded using the current bicycle ID, the current temporary station 300 location on the map (this time, the rental station location), and the user ID. It is associated and transmitted to the management server 50.

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

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

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

In line with this, the mobile terminal 90 transmits an unlock signal to the electronic lock (for example, wheel lock, handle lock) installed on the bicycle 12 using a short-range communication method, thereby unlocking the electronic lock. It is possible to unlock it. After unlocking, the user can use the current bicycle 12. Alternatively, the management server 50 may transmit the same unlock signal using a long distance communication method.

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

As illustrated in FIG. 28, once the bicycle 12 is allowed to be lent to the user as described above and the necessary unlocking is completed, the user can get on the bicycle 12 and start riding. In this case, although strictly speaking, the rental time is calculated from the actual rental time, it is actually calculated from the time when the user rides the bicycle 12.

<Return sequence>

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

This return sequence flow is executed after the above-described lending sequence flow ends. Furthermore, in this return sequence flow, if the user is riding the bicycle 12, the mobile terminal 90 can effectively receive signals from the second transmitter 32 without holding the mobile terminal 90 over the second transmitter 32. Reception from the second transmitter 32 is attempted under the medium range.

Specifically, in step S2701, the mobile terminal 90 attempts reception from the second transmitter 32 mounted on one of the bicycles 12 in the medium range.

Thereafter, in step S2702, the mobile terminal 90 determines whether the reception state in which the signal is effectively received from any second transmitter 32 has transitioned to the non-reception state in which the signal is not effectively received. If there is no such transition, the determination in step S2702 is NO and the process returns to step S2701, but if there is such a transition and the determination in step S2702 is YES, the process moves to step S2703.

As illustrated in FIG. 28, when the user is riding the bicycle 12 and is approaching the second transmitter 32, the mobile terminal 90 effectively receives signals from the second transmitter 32. Conceptually, the received signal at that time is at a high level H. Eventually, when the user gets off the bicycle 12 and moves away from the second transmitter 32, a state in which the mobile terminal 90 does not effectively receive signals from the second transmitter 32 begins. Conceptually, the received signal at that time is at low level L.

The mobile terminal 90 determines to "start returning" in step S2703 described above. Subsequently, in step S2704, the device measures its current position using GPS. The position is the current position of the user, the position of one temporary station 300 (which functions as a return station this time) where the user is currently located, and one of the cars parked at that temporary station 300. This is also the location of the bicycle 12.

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

In step S2707, the mobile terminal 90 displays a "return button" on the screen 135, which is an icon that is operated by the user to request to return the bicycle 12. Furthermore, it is determined whether the user has operated the "return button".

If the user does not operate the "return button", the determination becomes NO and the process returns to step S2707; however, if the user operates the "return button", the determination becomes YES, and in step S2708 the user , the management server associates the fact that a return request has been made to return the current bicycle 12 with the current bicycle ID, the current map location of the current temporary station 300 (this time, the return station location), and the user ID. Send to 50.

In response, the management server 50 receives the return request in step S2751, and then stores in the memory 162 a list of a plurality of storage locations where available bicycles 12 are stored in step S2752. The stored information is updated to reflect the fact that the current bicycle 12 has been returned to the current temporary station 300 on the map.

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

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

In response, the mobile terminal 90 receives information such as the rental amount from the management server 50 in step S2709, and then displays the rental amount on the screen 135 in step S2710. Thereafter, in step S2711, the user makes an electronic payment.

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

As illustrated in FIG. 28, when the user stops the bicycle 12 at an arbitrary location as described above, gets off the bicycle there, and eventually moves away from the bicycle 12, the mobile terminal 90 receives the signal from the second transmitter 32. cannot be received effectively. At that time, if the user is allowed to return the bicycle 12 and the necessary locks are performed, the return stage is completed. In this case, although strictly speaking, the rental time is added up to the actual return time, it is actually added up to the time when the user gets off the bicycle 12.

In this embodiment, the reception range of the second transmitter 32 is set so that the mobile terminal 90 is within the reception range of the second transmitter 32 as long as the user rides the bicycle 12. Then, when the user moves away from the bicycle 12 and the mobile terminal 90 deviates from the reception range of the second transmitter 32, thereby transitioning from the receiving state of the second transmitter 32 to the non-receiving state, the user It is estimated that there is a possibility that bicycle 12 may be returned.

Instead of this, the present invention provides that the reception range of the second transmitter 32 is not sufficient when the user is riding the bicycle 12, and approaches the user by intentionally holding the mobile terminal 90 over the second transmitter 32. The mobile terminal 90 is set not to enter the reception range of the second transmitter 32 unless the user does so, and then the user approaches the second transmitter 32 by holding the mobile terminal 90 over it. A mode in which it is estimated that the user may return the bicycle 12 when the terminal 90 enters the reception range of the second transmitter 32 and thereby transitions from the non-reception state to the reception state of the second transmitter 32. It may also be carried out.

<Some other variations>

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

Alternatively or in addition to this, another example of the user's identification information (identity authentication information) may be a unique device address such as the phone number, e-mail address, or MAC address of the mobile terminal 90. Good too.

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

Further, some of the embodiments described above are configured to carry out a rental business in which bicycles 12 are rented out to users for a fee and in a deferred payment manner. It can be modified to run a rental business where it is rented out to users free of charge.

Furthermore, although the above-described embodiments are exemplary embodiments in which the present invention is applied to rental bicycles as rental vehicles, other mobile objects lent to users for a fee or free of charge may also be used. The present invention may be applied to devices that move with the user. Such vehicles include, for example, motorcycles, automobiles (such as rental cars), motorized boats or jet skis, recreational or competitive go-carts, shopping carts, strollers, handcarts, wheelchairs, or golf carts.

Note that a "bicycle" usually has two wheels, but it is not limited to this; for example, even if it has three wheels, it may have four wheels. It may be a format.

Furthermore, if the rental object is furniture, electrical appliances, accessories that are removably attached to electrical appliances, or recording media on which audiovisual content is recorded (e.g., rental CDs) that can be played by the user. The present invention can also be applied to.

Furthermore, the present invention can be applied to cases where the rental object is a room in a hotel or apartment where a user can live, an individual storage space in a coin locker, or an individual parking space in a parking lot.

Several embodiments of the present invention have been described above in detail based on the drawings, but these are merely illustrative, and based on the knowledge of those skilled in the art, including the aspects described in the above [Summary of the Invention] column. It is possible to implement the present invention in other forms with various modifications and improvements.

Claims (13)

A system for managing a plurality of vehicles that can be rented to users and are stored at a plurality of stations, the system comprising:
Includes a management server that can communicate with users' mobile terminals,
The management server is
When any one of the plurality of stations is selected by the user as the currently selected station, the mobile terminal enables the user to reserve one of the plurality of vehicles as a reserved vehicle. a reservation department,
The user approaches one of the vehicles at the currently selected station, and the mobile terminal performs the short-range wireless communication by short-range communication with a short-range wireless communication unit mounted on one of the vehicles. for the user to start borrowing or using the reserved vehicle if the matching between any of the vehicles identified based on the signal received from the reserved vehicle and the reserved vehicle is successful; an input unit that enables the mobile terminal to receive an input of a start request ;
If the verification is not successful, the mobile terminal visually or visually prompts the user to try again to receive a signal from the near field communication unit by the mobile terminal. A rental vehicle management system including a reminder section that reminds people by audibly stimulating them . The management server further includes an unlocking unit that allows the mobile terminal to remotely unlock a lock device installed in the reserved vehicle after the mobile terminal receives the input of the start request. The rental vehicle management system described in Item 1. After receiving the input of the start request, the mobile terminal further transmits an unlocking signal for unlocking the locking device installed in the reserved vehicle using a near field communication method. The rental vehicle management system according to claim 1 , further comprising a lock . The short -range wireless communication unit is configured to allow the mobile terminal to effectively receive a signal from the short-range wireless communication unit if the user approaches the mobile terminal without touching or holding the mobile terminal over the short-range wireless communication unit. 2. The rental vehicle management system according to claim 1 , having a reception range that allows reception of the vehicle. The rental vehicle management system according to claim 1 , wherein the short-range wireless communication unit has a function of transmitting or transmitting a beacon signal, an IR signal, a Bluetooth (registered trademark) signal, or an NFC signal. A system for managing a plurality of vehicles that can be rented to users and are stored at a plurality of stations, the system comprising:
Includes a management server that can communicate with users' mobile terminals,
The management server is
When any one of the plurality of stations is selected by the user as the currently selected station, the mobile terminal enables the user to reserve one of the plurality of vehicles as a reserved vehicle. a reservation department,
When the user approaches the reserved vehicle and the user performs an operation to input into the mobile terminal a start request for the user to start borrowing or using the reserved vehicle. and an input section that enables the mobile terminal to accept the input.
including;
The mobile terminal visually detects the user after the mobile terminal starts short-range communication with a short-range wireless communication unit mounted on the reserved vehicle because the user approaches the reserved vehicle. A rental vehicle management system including a prompting unit that prompts the user to enter the start request into the mobile terminal by providing an auditory or tactile stimulation. The management server further includes:
a display unit that enables the mobile terminal to display on a screen, among the plurality of stations, those located near the current location of the user as determined by the mobile terminal as a plurality of candidate stations;
The mobile terminal includes a selection unit that allows a user to select one of the candidate stations as the currently selected station when the user touches a display position of one of the candidate stations on the screen.
The rental vehicle management system according to claim 1 or 6, comprising: The rental vehicle management system according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of vehicles include a plurality of rental cars or shared cars, or a plurality of rental bicycles or shared cycles. A program executed on a user's mobile terminal in order for the user to use any of a plurality of vehicles that can be rented to the user and stored at a plurality of stations, the program comprising:
The mobile terminal is
a reservation unit that allows the user to reserve one of the plurality of vehicles as a reserved vehicle when any one of the plurality of stations is selected by the user as the currently selected station; ,
The user approaches one of the vehicles at the currently selected station, and the mobile terminal performs the short-range wireless communication by short-range communication with a short-range wireless communication unit mounted on one of the vehicles. for the user to start borrowing or using the reserved vehicle if the matching between any of the vehicles identified based on the signal received from the reserved vehicle and the reserved vehicle is successful; an input section that accepts input of a start request ;
visually or aurally stimulating the user to try again to receive a signal from the near field communication unit by the mobile terminal if the verification is not successful; By doing so, the reminding department and
including;
The program is a program for making a computer function as a reservation section, an input section , and a reminder section . A program executed on a user's mobile terminal in order for the user to use any of a plurality of vehicles that can be rented to the user and stored at a plurality of stations, the program comprising:
The mobile terminal is
a reservation unit that allows the user to reserve one of the plurality of vehicles as a reserved vehicle when any one of the plurality of stations is selected by the user as the currently selected station;
When the user approaches the reserved vehicle and the user performs an operation to input into the mobile terminal a start request for the user to start borrowing or using the reserved vehicle. an input unit that receives input of the start request ;
After the user approaches the reserved vehicle and the mobile terminal starts short-range communication with a short-range wireless communication unit mounted on the reserved vehicle, the user is visually, audibly, or a prompting unit that prompts the user to enter the start request into the mobile terminal by tactile stimulation;
including;
The program is a program for making a computer function as a reservation section, an input section, and a reminder section . A program for causing a computer to function as a management server according to claim 1 or 6 . A recording medium on which the program according to claim 9 or 10 is recorded in a computer-readable manner. A recording medium on which the program according to claim 11 is recorded in a computer-readable manner.

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