WO2022208696A1

WO2022208696A1 - Lending system and lending method

Info

Publication number: WO2022208696A1
Application number: PCT/JP2021/013717
Authority: WO
Inventors: 俊夫北原; 和哉小山; 智也高木
Original assignee: 株式会社デンソーテン
Priority date: 2021-03-30
Filing date: 2021-03-30
Publication date: 2022-10-06
Also published as: JPWO2022208696A1

Abstract

A lending system (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a control unit (103). With regard to a vehicle (V-2) (corresponding to an example of "one vehicle") among multiple lendable vehicles (V), when a user (U1) (corresponding to an example of "one user") is authenticated with authentication information provided to each user (U), the control unit (103) performs transfer processing in which the state of the vehicle (V-2) is changed to a lent-out state, in which the vehicle (V-2) is lent out to the user (U1), and, if a vehicle (V-1) (corresponding to an example of "another vehicle") other than the vehicle (V-2) is in a lent-out state, in which the vehicle (V-1) is lent out to the user (U1), the lent-out state of the vehicle (V-1) is canceled.

Description

Lending System and Lending Method

The disclosed embodiments relate to a lending system and lending method.

Conventionally, ultra-compact mobility and personal mobility (hereinafter simply referred to as "mobility"), which are vehicles that support the movement of users within predetermined areas such as large commercial facilities, medical and nursing facilities, and airport facilities, are known.

In addition, in order to reduce the burden on the user who moves such mobility, when the user inputs the destination to the mobility, a route to the destination is generated and the vehicle automatically moves the mobility to the destination according to the route. A control system has also been proposed (see Patent Document 1, for example).

It should be noted that these types of mobility devices are relatively expensive and are still rarely owned by users, and are often rented out by facility operators to users who use the facility.

JP 2018-010579 A

However, although the conventional technology can move mobility efficiently, the improvement of convenience, including the transfer of mobility, has not progressed. need to be enhanced.

One aspect of the embodiment has been made in view of the above, and aims to provide a rental system and a rental method that can further improve the user's convenience in renting a vehicle.

A lending system according to one aspect of the embodiment includes a control unit. With respect to one vehicle among a plurality of vehicles that can be rented, when one user is authenticated using authentication information given to each user, the control unit transfers the one vehicle to the one user. and if a vehicle other than the one vehicle is in the state of being rented to the one user, transfer processing is executed to cancel the state of being rented out of the other vehicle.

According to one aspect of the embodiment, it is possible to further improve user convenience in renting a vehicle.

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a vehicle according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a configuration example of a lending system according to the embodiment. FIG. 3 is a schematic explanatory diagram (Part 1) of the lending method according to the embodiment. FIG. 4 is a schematic explanatory diagram (Part 2) of the lending method according to the embodiment. FIG. 5 is a schematic explanatory diagram (Part 3) of the lending method according to the embodiment. FIG. 6 is a schematic explanatory diagram (part 4) of the lending method according to the embodiment. FIG. 7 is a schematic explanatory diagram (No. 5) of the lending method according to the embodiment. FIG. 8 is a schematic explanatory diagram (No. 6) of the lending method according to the embodiment. FIG. 9 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a server device according to the embodiment; FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram of a case where a cargo vehicle is caused to follow. FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram (part 1) of the case of changing the main vehicle. FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram (part 2) in the case of changing the main vehicle. FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram (part 1) of the case of changing sub-vehicles. FIG. 14 is an explanatory diagram (part 2) in the case of changing sub-vehicles. FIG. 15 is an explanatory diagram when the main vehicle is returned. FIG. 16 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of an in-vehicle device according to the embodiment; FIG. 17 is a flow chart showing a processing procedure executed by the lending system according to the embodiment;

Hereinafter, embodiments of the lending system and lending method disclosed in the present application will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In addition, this invention is not limited by embodiment shown below.

Further, hereinafter, the vehicle V according to the embodiment is assumed to be a micro-mobility or a personal mobility, which is a vehicle that supports the movement of the user within a predetermined area such as a large-scale commercial facility, a medical care facility, or an airport facility. .

Each of the above facilities may be a facility consisting of a single building such as a large department store, or may be a facility with multiple buildings within a site such as a shopping mall. Also, the building may be a multi-level building or a one-story building without any levels.

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a vehicle V according to an embodiment. Also, FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a configuration example of the lending system 1 according to the embodiment. 3 to 8 are schematic explanatory diagrams (1) to (6) of the lending method according to the embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 1, the vehicle V according to the embodiment is an electric vehicle for one to two people known as ultra-compact mobility or personal mobility. Although the vehicle V is described here as an electric vehicle using a motor as power, it may be a vehicle using other power such as an internal combustion engine as power. There are various types of vehicles V such as a cart type as shown in the figure, a wheelchair type and a standing type. The type of vehicle V will be described later with reference to FIG.

As shown in FIG. 1, the vehicle V includes an in-vehicle device 10 . The in-vehicle device 10 is a computer mounted in the vehicle V. FIG. The in-vehicle device 10 has a control section and a communication section. The control unit performs manual operation control based on the user's driving operation, instructions from an external device acquired through the communication unit, and automatic operation control based on external conditions acquired through an in-vehicle sensor unit (not shown). A vehicle V is controlled.

Note that the in-vehicle device 10 can automatically drive the vehicle V by automatic driving control in either a manned state where the user is on board or an unmanned state where the user is not on board, as shown in FIG. . Hereinafter, a manned vehicle V may be referred to as a "manned vehicle Vm", and an unmanned vehicle V may be referred to as an "unmanned vehicle Vu".

In recent years, such vehicles V have begun to be introduced as a means of transportation for users within facilities such as large-scale commercial facilities, medical care facilities, and airport facilities. There are still few such cases, and in many cases, they are rented out to users who use the facility from the management side of the facility.

However, at present, no progress has been made on improving convenience, including the transfer of vehicles V, and it is necessary to enhance this point in order to spread the use of mobility in the future.

Therefore, in the lending method according to the embodiment, when one user is authenticated using authentication information given to each user U for one vehicle among a plurality of vehicles that can be rented, the one vehicle to the state of being rented to the one user, and if a vehicle other than the one vehicle is in the state of being rented to the one user, the other vehicle is released from the state of being rented. I decided to process.

Specifically, a vehicle V rental system 1 to which the rental method according to the embodiment is applied will be described. As shown in FIG. 2, the rental system 1 according to the embodiment includes vehicles V including one or more manned vehicles Vm and unmanned vehicles Vu, facility equipment 30, a user terminal 50, a server and device 100 . The manned vehicle Vm and the unmanned vehicle Vu basically differ only in whether or not a person is on board.

The in-facility equipment 30 is various equipment provided in the facility. The in-facility equipment 30 includes, for example, a reception machine 31 (see FIG. 3 onward) and a camera 32 (see FIG. 9 onward). At least one receiver 31 and at least one camera 32 are provided. The reception machine 31 is provided so as to be able to read user U's authentication information.

The user terminal 50 is a terminal device used by the user U who rents the vehicle V. For example, a notebook PC (Personal Computer), a tablet terminal, a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant), a smart phone, an eyeglass-type or watch-type information processing terminal. such as wearable devices. In addition, below, you may read the user U as "user terminal 50" suitably.

The server device 100 is a computer that manages and controls various devices within the facility, including the vehicle V, and is implemented as a cloud server, for example, and provided outside the facility. Note that server device 100 may be provided, for example, in a facility.

The vehicle V, the in-facility equipment 30, the user terminal 50, and the server device 100 are provided so as to be able to communicate with each other via a network N such as the Internet, an intranet, a mobile phone network, or the like. Vehicles V can also communicate with each other, for example, by vehicle-to-vehicle communication using short-range wireless communication.

The lending system 1 configured in this way provides the user U with the lending service according to the embodiment as follows. In the following description, it is assumed that user U1 receives a vehicle V rental service.

First, as shown in FIG. 3, reservation processing is executed (step S1). In the reservation process, the user U1 requests the server device 100 to reserve the vehicle V from home or the like. When the requested reservation is accepted and the reservation is completed, server device 100 transmits a reservation confirmation mail to user U1. A QR code (registered trademark) C1 that serves as authentication information for user U1, for example, is attached to the reservation confirmation mail.

Then, when the user U1 presents the QR code C1 at the time of reservation completion to the reception machine 31 provided at the entrance of the facility, for example, when entering the facility or after entering the facility, the reception machine 31 The authentication information indicated by the QR code C<b>1 is transmitted to the server device 100 . That is, it requests authentication. Then, server device 100 compares the received authentication information with the information at the time of reservation, and authenticates user U1 as the authorized user of vehicle V based on the result of the comparison (step S2). It should be noted that it is also possible to allow the procedure for renting the vehicle V to be processed at the reception machine 31 or the like after entering the building without prior reservation from home or the like. In such a case, a configuration may be adopted in which a lending window for a person to deal with is provided somewhere in the facility.

The QR code is an example of authentication information for authenticating the user U1 who has reserved the vehicle V, and information other than the QR code may be used as long as the user U1 can be authenticated. For example, user U1 may be authenticated by registering the face image of user U1 at the time of reservation and comparing it with the face image taken by reception machine 31 or the like at the time of entering the building.

Authentication information such as a QR code consists of a code issued at the time of reservation (a code used for authentication when entering the building, etc.) and a code used when using vehicle V (authentication when boarding vehicle V or changing trains, etc.). code used for ) may be the same or different. The case where the document is different is, for example, the case where the official version is newly issued in the process of entering the building. As for the code used when boarding the vehicle V after entering the building or when changing trains, basically the same user U continues to use the same code. By adopting a configuration in which the chords are switched, even the same user U may have a configuration in which the chords are changed.

The authenticated user U1 is guided to the corresponding vehicle V through guide information presented to the user terminal 50 by the server device 100 after authentication, for example (step S3).

Note that, as shown in FIG. 4, the server device 100 selects a vehicle V to be lent to the user U1 from among the lentable vehicles V existing in the rental area and the return area, for example. As shown in the figure, there are various types of vehicles V. FIG. For example, vehicles V-1 and -3 shown in FIG. Also, the vehicle V-2 is a single-seat stand-up type. Vehicle V-4 is of wheelchair type. Vehicles V-5 and -6 are for cargo.

The server device 100 can select a recommended vehicle V from among these various types of vehicles V, for example, according to the attributes of the user U1. The “attribute” referred to here is information related to the attributes of the user U1. For example, in addition to the age, gender, and occupation of the user U1, physical characteristics such as height, weight, and foot size, healthy/disabled person, etc. Including distinction, presence or absence of a passenger, amount of luggage, etc. In addition, below, the information about such an attribute may be called "attribute information."

The server device 100 selects the cart-type vehicle V-1 or V-3, for example, when the user U1 has a relatively large physique or has a fellow passenger. Further, if there is only one user U1 and the weight is equal to or less than the specified value, server device 100 selects, for example, stand-up type vehicle V-2.

Also, if the user U1 is an elderly person, a physically handicapped person, or the like, the server device 100 selects, for example, a wheelchair-type vehicle V-4. Further, if the amount of luggage for user U1 is large, server device 100 selects to use luggage vehicle V-5 or vehicle V-6 together. When the cargo vehicles V-5 and -6 are used together, the cargo vehicles V-5 and V-6 can follow the vehicle V in which the user U1 rides by automatic operation control. This point will be described later in the description using FIG. 10 .

Also, the vehicles V that can be rented are not limited to those existing in the rental area and the return area. For example, if the vehicle V can be returned by dropping it off in the facility, the vehicle V can be located anywhere in the facility. Also, if a transfer from the previous user is possible, the current position of user U1, the current position of the previous user, or any position in between can be the use start position of user U1.

In the following explanation, it is assumed that the vehicle V-1 is selected as the vehicle V in which the user U1 rides. Further, the vehicle V that the user U1 actually rides and uses in this way may be referred to as a "main vehicle" below. On the other hand, the vehicle V that the user U1 does not actually ride in but that is used together with the main vehicle may be referred to as a "sub vehicle" below.

In addition, the server device 100 tracks the user U1 who is guided to the vehicle V while taking over the camera 32 inside the facility, for example, and always knows the position of the user U1 inside the facility.

Then, as shown in FIG. 5, when the user U1 approaches the vehicle V-1, which is to be the main vehicle, the server device 100 notifies the vehicle V-1 of its presence (step S4). The vehicle V-1 notifies its presence by, for example, turning on or blinking its lights, emitting audio information from a speaker, or displaying image information on its display unit.

Then, when the user U1 approaches the vehicle V-1 further, the vehicle V-1 authenticates the user terminal 50 via short-range wireless communication, and cancels the security if the authentication succeeds (step S5). NFC (Near Field Communication), Bluetooth (registered trademark), UWB (Ultra Wide Band), or the like can be used as the short-range wireless communication method. Note that the authentication processing in the vehicle V does not have to be authentication in communication with the user terminal 50 . For example, authentication may be performed by image recognition in which the user terminal 50 displaying a QR code or the like is held over a camera provided in the vehicle V. FIG.

Then, the user U1 gets into the vehicle V-1 whose security has been released and starts using it. Further, as shown in FIG. 6, the server device 100 manages the vehicle V-1, which the user U1 has started to use, as being in the "rented" state. The "rented" state is, in other words, the "used as the main vehicle" state.

In addition, as shown in the figure, the server device 100 manages the vehicle V-1 as being in a "rental disabled" state for users U2 different from the user U1. That is, the server device 100 cannot rent out the vehicle V-1 to other users U2.

In addition, the server device 100 manages other vehicles V-2, -3, . That is, the server device 100 can lend the other vehicles V-2, -3, . . . as sub-vehicles to the user U1. Note that "sub-usable" includes the meaning of "transfer possible".

Similarly, the server device 100 manages the other vehicles V-2, -3, . That is, the server device 100 can rent out the other vehicles V-2, -3, . . . as main vehicles to the user U2 . In this manner, the server device 100 manages the state of each vehicle V within the facility.

By the way, a situation may occur in which each user who is using the vehicle V wants to transfer to another vehicle V. For example, as shown in FIG. 7, it is assumed that the user U1 is using the vehicle V-1 and the remaining charge level is insufficient.

In such a case, in the lending method according to the embodiment, as shown in the figure, the user U1 causes the vehicle V-2 he wishes to change to or the nearest reception machine 31 to read the same QR code C1 as when entering the building, thereby performing transfer authentication. can be performed (step S6). If the transfer authentication succeeds, the user U1 can use the vehicle V-2 as the main vehicle instead of the vehicle V-1.

The server device 100 monitors the state of each vehicle V, and when transfer authentication is performed with the QR code C1 for the vehicle V-2, the user U1 corresponding to the QR code C1 is notified that the vehicle V-2 is “on loan”. 1, for example the state of charge. Then, if the remaining charge is equal to or less than the predetermined value, the server device 100 puts the vehicle V-2, which was "sub-usable" for the user U1, into the "rented" state as the main vehicle. That is, when the remaining charge is equal to or less than the predetermined value, execution of the transfer process is permitted. On the other hand, when the remaining charge of the vehicle V-2 to which the vehicle is to be transferred is less than or equal to the predetermined value, execution of the transfer process is not permitted.

Specifically, the server device 100 changes the management contents of each vehicle V shown in FIG. 6 to the management contents shown in FIG. That is, the server apparatus 100 cancels the "renting" state of the vehicle V-1, which was in the "renting" state for the user U1 in FIG. and

In addition, the server device 100 puts the vehicle V-2, which was in the "sub-usable" state for the user U1 in FIG. 6, into the "rented" state as the main vehicle, as shown in FIG. That is, the server device 100 manages each vehicle V so that the user U1 can use one main vehicle with the same QR code C1.

In addition, since the vehicle V-1 has insufficient remaining charge, the server device 100 maintains the vehicle V-1, which was in the state of "not available for rent" for the user U2 in FIG. 6, remains "not available for rent." . If the state of the vehicle V-1 continues to be usable, the server device 100 puts the vehicle V-1 in a "rentable" state for the users U2, as indicated by (○) in FIG. do.

Therefore, even if the user U1 simply wants to transfer to another vehicle V, not due to insufficient remaining charge, the other user U2, . . . In this state, the user U1 can arbitrarily transfer to another vehicle V.

As described above, in the lending method according to the embodiment, when one user is authenticated using the authentication information given to each user U for one vehicle among a plurality of vehicles that can be rented, the one user U is authenticated. vehicle is shifted to the state of being rented to the one user, and if a vehicle other than the one vehicle is in the state of being rented to the one user, the state of being rented of the other vehicle is canceled. It was decided to execute transfer processing to

Therefore, according to the lending method according to the embodiment, it is possible to further improve the convenience for the user U in lending the vehicle V. Hereinafter, a configuration example of the lending system 1 according to the embodiment will be described more specifically.

FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of the server device 100 according to the embodiment. It should be noted that FIG. 9 and FIG. 16 shown later show only the constituent elements necessary for explaining the features of this embodiment, and omit the description of general constituent elements.

In other words, each component illustrated in FIGS. 7 and 16 is functionally conceptual and does not necessarily need to be physically configured as illustrated. For example, the specific form of distribution/integration of each block is not limited to the one shown in the figure. It is possible to integrate and configure.

In addition, in the description using FIGS. 9 and 16, the description of the components that have already been described may be simplified or omitted.

As shown in FIG. 9, the server device 100 includes a communication unit 101, a storage unit 102, and a control unit 103. The communication unit 101 is realized by, for example, a NIC (Network Interface Card) or the like.

The communication unit 101 is connected to the network N described above by wire or wirelessly, and transmits and receives various types of information to and from the in-vehicle device 10, the in-facility device 30, and the user terminal 50 via the network N. Wi-Fi (registered trademark), Bluetooth, UWB, or the like can be used as a specific wireless communication method for wireless connection.

The in-facility equipment 30 is various equipment provided in the facility, and includes a reception machine 31 and a camera 32 . The camera 32 corresponds to an example of an in-facility sensor unit. The in-facility sensor unit is a group of sensors that are installed in the facility and output various sensing data indicating the conditions inside the facility. The in-facility sensor unit includes, in addition to the camera 32, for example, a human sensor, a temperature/humidity sensor, a G sensor, a vibration sensor, and the like. Note that the reception machine 31 may also be included in the in-facility sensor section.

The storage unit 102 is implemented by, for example, a storage device such as a RAM (Random Access Memory) or flash memory, or a disk device such as a hard disk device or an optical disk device. stores facility management information 102a, user information 102b, and vehicle management information 102c.

The facility management information 102a is various information related to facilities managed by the server device 100. The facility management information 102a includes, for example, all map information in the facility, information on all the in-facility devices 30, monitor monitoring information in the facility, and the like.

The user information 102b is information about each user U who uses the vehicle V, and includes the aforementioned attribute information. The user information 102b also includes information indicating the current situation of each user U within the facility, such as current position and whether or not the vehicle V is in use.

The vehicle management information 102c is information related to the management of the vehicle V, and includes the current state of the vehicle V and the like. The current state of the vehicle V includes the usage status of each vehicle V shown in FIGS. 6 and 8, the above-described remaining charge, the current position of the vehicle V, and the like.

The control unit 103 is a controller, and various programs (not shown) stored in the storage unit 102 are executed using the RAM as a work area, for example, by a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or MPU (Micro Processing Unit). It is realized by being Also, the control unit 103 can be realized by an integrated circuit such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array).

The control unit 103 has a reservation processing unit 103a, an authentication unit 103b, a vehicle management unit 103c, and an instruction unit 103d, and implements or executes the information processing functions and actions described below.

The reservation processing unit 103a executes the reservation processing corresponding to step S1 described above with the user terminal 50 via the communication unit 101.

The authentication unit 103b executes the authentication process corresponding to step S2 and the transfer authentication process corresponding to step S6 with the user terminal 50 via the communication unit 101. In addition to the entrance of the facility, the reception machines 31 are scattered at various places in the facility. Accordingly, the authentication unit 103b can perform authentication processing for each user U including transfer authentication processing at any time.

The vehicle management unit 103c executes the vehicle management processing described using FIGS. 6 and 8 based on the authentication processing of each user U, and updates the vehicle management information 102c as needed.

By the way, if the amount of luggage for each user U is large, the server device 100 selects to use the luggage vehicle V-5 or the vehicle V-6 together, and the server device 100 automatically selects the vehicle V on which each user U rides. It has already been described that the vehicle V-5 and the vehicle V-6 for cargo can be made to follow the vehicle as sub-vehicles by operation control. Such sub-vehicles can be added arbitrarily even after each user U starts using the vehicle V. FIG.

FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram when adding vehicles V-5 and V-6 for cargo. First, the user U1 was using the vehicle V-1 as the main vehicle, but while using the facility, for example, he went shopping, and as shown in FIG. It is assumed that the

In such a case, as shown in the figure, by performing additional authentication processing, the user U1 can cause the vehicle V-5 and the vehicle V-6 for luggage to follow the vehicle V-1 as sub-vehicles. In the additional authentication process, for example, as shown in the figure, user U1 first performs maintenance authentication by having vehicle V-1, which is the main vehicle, read the aforementioned QR code C1 (step S7). This is not a transfer to use the vehicle V-5 or the vehicle V-6 as the main vehicle, but to indicate the intention to maintain the vehicle V-1 as the main vehicle on loan.

Then, for example, within a predetermined period of time from step S7, when additional authentication is performed by having vehicle V-5 and vehicle V-6 that user U1 wants to use as sub-vehicles read the QR code C1 (step S8), server device 100 For management purposes, the vehicle V-5 and the vehicle V-6 are in a "sub-in-use" state in which they are in use as sub-vehicles. The "sub-in-use" state is, in other words, the state of "renting out as a sub-vehicle".

After that, the server device 100 causes the vehicle V-5 and the vehicle V-6 to follow the vehicle V-1 through automatic operation control. As a result, each user U can add a sub-vehicle with a simple operation and have it follow the main vehicle when he/she wants to use the additional sub-vehicle, such as when the number of luggage has increased. That is, the convenience for the user U in renting the vehicle V can be further improved.

Although FIG. 10 shows an example in which the vehicle V for cargo follows, the vehicle V which is not originally intended for cargo is used for cargo or for other purposes (for example, for a companion who comes late). You can follow it.

Return to the description of Fig. 9. When it is determined that each user U has approached the vehicle V to be rented based on the current position of each user U ascertained using the camera 32, for example, the instruction unit 103d instructs the vehicle V via the communication unit 101. to announce its presence to

In response to such notification of existence, each user U approaches the vehicle V further and causes the vehicle V to acquire authentication information via short-range wireless communication. Then, when the vehicle V authenticates each user U based on the authentication information and cancels the security, the server device 100 puts the vehicle V in a state of being rented to each user U, and thereafter the vehicle V is returned. It will be managed and controlled until it is completed.

Next, a specific example of vehicle management processing executed by the vehicle management unit 103c will be described with reference to FIGS. 11 to 15. FIG.

FIGS. 11 and 12 are explanatory diagrams (part 1) and (part 2) when changing the main vehicle. 13 and 14 are explanatory diagrams (part 1) and (part 2) when changing sub-vehicles. Moreover, FIG. 15 is an explanatory diagram when the main vehicle is returned.

As shown in FIG. 11, a user U1 is using a QR code C1, which is authentication information, as an authentication key, a vehicle V-1 as a main vehicle, and a vehicle V-5 and a vehicle V-6 as sub-vehicles. shall be assumed. In this situation, assume that user U1 changes the main vehicle from vehicle V-1 to vehicle V-2.

In this case, as shown in FIG. 12, the vehicle management unit 103c cancels the "rented" state of the vehicle V-1 for the user U1 and puts it in the "sub-usable" state in the vehicle management information 102c. At the same time, the vehicle V-2 is put in the "rented" state (see part M1 in the figure).

In addition, the vehicle management unit 103c cancels the "rental not allowed" state for the vehicle V-1 for the user U2 . . . state (see M2 section in the figure). As indicated by (x) in the figure, if the vehicle V-1 is unusable due to insufficient remaining charge, the vehicle may be in a "rentable" state for all users U.

Further, as shown in FIG. 13, the user U1 uses the QR code C1 as the authentication key, the vehicle V-1 as the main vehicle, and the vehicle V-5 and the vehicle V-6 as the sub-vehicles. assumed to be in use. Under such circumstances, it is assumed that the user U1 changes (more precisely, changes) the sub-vehicle from the vehicle V-6 to the vehicle V-7.

In such a case, as shown in FIG. 14, the vehicle management unit 103c cancels the "sub-in-use" state of the vehicle V-6 for the user U1 and changes it to the "sub-usable" state in the vehicle management information 102c. At the same time, the vehicle V-7 is placed in the "sub-in-use" state (see M3 section in the figure).

In addition, the vehicle management unit 103c cancels the "rental not allowed" state for the vehicle V-6 for the user U2 . . . state (see M4 section in the figure). As indicated by (x) in the figure, if the vehicle V-6 is unusable due to insufficient remaining charge, the vehicle may be in a "rentable" state for all users U.

Further, as shown in FIG. 15, when the user U1 returns the main vehicle, the vehicle management unit 103c determines that all the vehicles V used by the user U1, including the sub vehicles, are "rented possible” (see M5 and M6 in the figure).

Further, for example, in the case of an operation in which the authority of the authentication information expires when the main vehicle is returned, the vehicle management unit 103c puts all the vehicles V for the user U1 into a "rentable" state (see M7 in the figure). ). In the case where the authority of the authentication information does not expire when the main vehicle is returned, for example, it can be used again within the same day, as indicated by (○) in the figure, for user U1, All vehicles V that can be rented may be placed in the "rentable" state.

Next, a configuration example of the in-vehicle device 10 will be described. FIG. 16 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of the in-vehicle device 10 according to the embodiment. As shown in FIG. 16, the in-vehicle device 10 is connected to a vehicle mechanism 2, an in-vehicle sensor section 3, a notification section 4, and a security mechanism 5 via an in-vehicle network such as a CAN (Controller Area Network).

The vehicle mechanism 2 is various mechanisms that make up the running system, electric power system, etc. of the vehicle V. The in-vehicle sensor unit 3 is a group of sensors that are mounted on the vehicle V and that output various sensing data indicating the conditions inside and outside the vehicle V. FIG. The in-vehicle sensor unit 3 includes, for example, a camera, a G sensor, a gyro sensor, a radar, a GPS sensor, a seating sensor, and the like.

The notification unit 4 is various output devices that can notify information to the surroundings, and includes lights mounted on the vehicle V, such as headlights and taillights, speakers, display units, and the like. The security mechanism 5 is a mechanism that locks/unlocks, for example, the vehicle mechanism 2 and HMI (Human Machine Interface) components (not shown) in terms of hardware or software.

The in-vehicle device 10 includes a communication unit 11, a short-range wireless communication unit 12, a storage unit 13, and a control unit 14. The communication unit 11 is implemented by, for example, a NIC. The communication unit 11 is wirelessly connected to the network N described above, and transmits and receives various types of information to and from the server device 100 via the network N. FIG. In addition, the communication unit 11 can directly transmit and receive various types of information to and from various devices such as other vehicles V and in-facility devices 30 via V2X communication. Wi-Fi or the like can be used as a specific wireless communication method.

The short-range wireless communication unit 12 is implemented by, for example, a NIC. The short-range wireless communication unit 12 is connected to the user terminal 50 by a short-range wireless communication method, and transmits and receives various information to and from the user terminal 50 . NFC, Bluetooth, UWB, or the like can be used as a short-range wireless communication method.

The storage unit 13 is implemented by, for example, a storage device such as a RAM or a flash memory, or a disk device such as a hard disk device or an optical disk device. In the example of FIG. Information 13b is stored.

The vehicle control information 13a is information related to vehicle control of the vehicle V, and includes, for example, parameters indicating various characteristics of the vehicle mechanism 2, a control model for automatically driving the vehicle V, and the like. Such a control model is, for example, a DNN or the like that has been learned so as to automatically control the vehicle V according to the recognition content based on the sensing data of the vehicle-mounted sensor unit 3 . Such a control model may be stored on the server device 100 side.

The user information 13b is information about each user U who is a user of the vehicle V, and is acquired from the server device 100 via the communication unit 11 and set. Note that the user information 13b may be information obtained by extracting the minimum data necessary for authentication of each user U from the user information 102b of the server device 100 .

The control unit 14 is a controller, and is realized, for example, by executing various programs (not shown) stored in the storage unit 13 by the CPU, MPU, etc., using the RAM as a work area. Also, the control unit 14 can be implemented by an integrated circuit such as an ASIC or FPGA, for example.

The control unit 14 includes a vehicle control unit 14a, an acquisition unit 14b, a detection unit 14c, a notification control unit 14d, and a security control unit 14e, and realizes or executes information processing functions and actions described below. do.

The vehicle control unit 14a performs manual driving control or automatic driving control of the vehicle V based on the driving operation of each user U, instructions from the server device 100, sensing data from the vehicle-mounted sensor unit 3, vehicle control information 13a, and the like. conduct.

The acquisition unit 14b acquires various types of information from the in-facility equipment 30 and the server device 100 via the communication unit 11. Also, the acquisition unit 14 b acquires various types of information from the user terminal 50 via the short-range wireless communication unit 12 . Further, the acquisition unit 14b acquires various sensing data from the in-vehicle sensor unit 3. FIG.

The detection unit 14c detects the approach of each user U based on the notification instruction from the server device 100 acquired by the acquisition unit 14b and the sensing data from the in-vehicle sensor unit 3.

Based on the notification instruction from the server device 100, the notification control unit 14d causes the notification unit 4 to notify the surroundings of the presence of the vehicle V. As already described, the notification control unit 14d causes the notification unit 4 to notify the vehicle V by, for example, turning on or blinking the lights, emitting audio information from a speaker, or displaying image information on the display unit. announce its existence.

The security control unit 14e performs authentication processing for each user U via the short-range wireless communication unit 12. The security control unit 14e causes the security mechanism 5 to lock security until each user U is authenticated.

In addition, when the authentication information of each user U is acquired via the short-range wireless communication unit 12, the security control unit 14e collates it with the user information 13b, and authenticates each user U based on the collation result. . Further, the security control unit 14e causes the security mechanism 5 to unlock the security so that the user U can use the vehicle V when each user U is authenticated.

Further, when the authentication information of the user U is acquired via the short-range wireless communication unit 12 after each user starts using the vehicle V, the security control unit 14e performs each authentication in steps S6 to S8 described above. For processing, the authentication information is transmitted to the server device 100 via the communication unit 11 . Based on this, the server device 100 executes each authentication process and vehicle management process in steps S6 to S8.

Next, a processing procedure executed by the lending system 1 according to the embodiment will be described. FIG. 17 is a flow chart showing a processing procedure executed by the lending system 1 according to the embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 17, it is first determined whether or not there is a request to rent the main vehicle (step S101). If there is a rental request (step S101, Yes), the server device 100 authenticates the user U (step S102). Then, the server device 100 shifts the vehicle to the rented state (step S103).

Then, it is determined whether or not there is a sub-use request (step S104). Here, if there is a sub-use request (step S104, Yes), that is, if additional authentication is requested, the server device 100 authenticates the user U (step S102), and the corresponding vehicle (sub-vehicle) is in the rented state. (sub-busy state).

If there is no sub-use request (step S104, No), it is determined whether or not there is a transfer request (step S105). If there is a transfer request (step S105, Yes), that is, if transfer authentication is requested, the server device 100 authenticates the user U (step S106).

Then, the server device 100 cancels the state of renting the vehicle V before the transfer (step S107), and shifts the state of the vehicle V after the transfer to the state of renting (step S108).

If there is no transfer request (step S105, No), or after step S108 is executed, it is determined whether or not the main vehicle has been returned (step S109). If the main vehicle has not been returned (step S109, No), the process from step S104 is repeated.

When the main vehicle has been returned (step S109, Yes), all vehicles used by the corresponding user U are moved to a lendable state (step S110), and the process ends.

As described above, the lending system 1 according to the embodiment includes the control unit 103. The control unit 103 uses the authentication information given to each user U, for example, a vehicle V-2 (corresponding to an example of “one vehicle”) among a plurality of vehicles V that can be rented, to the user U1 (“one vehicle”). user") is authenticated, the vehicle V-2 is shifted to the state of being rented to the user U1, and the vehicle V-1 other than the vehicle V-2 (an example of "another vehicle" ) is in the state of being rented to the user U1, transfer processing for canceling the state of being rented to the vehicle V-1 is executed.

Therefore, according to the rental system 1 according to the embodiment, it is possible to further improve the convenience for the user U in renting the vehicle V.

In addition, the rental system 1 according to the embodiment provides a vehicle V rental service within the facility.

Therefore, according to the rental system 1 according to the embodiment, it is possible to further improve the convenience for the user U in the rental service of the vehicle V in the facility.

Further, when the transfer process is executed, the control unit 103 further controls the vehicle V-1 used by the user U1 before execution of the transfer process to the user U2 other than the user U1 ("another user"). (equivalent to an example) to move to a lendable state.

Therefore, according to the rental system 1 according to the embodiment, the vehicle V-1, which is no longer used as the main vehicle due to the transfer process, can be put into a rental ready state for the user U2.

Also, the control unit 103 prohibits the execution of the transfer process if the transfer permission condition is not satisfied before the transfer process is executed.

Therefore, according to the lending system 1 according to the embodiment, unnecessary transfers can be prevented.

Also, the transfer permission condition is that the remaining energy level of vehicle V-1 is less than or equal to a predetermined value.

Therefore, according to the rental system 1 according to the embodiment, it is possible to execute transfer processing at the timing when the vehicle V-1 is likely to become unusable due to the low remaining charge.

Also, the control unit 103 does not permit execution of transfer processing when the remaining charge of the vehicle V-2 is equal to or less than a predetermined value.

Therefore, according to the rental system 1 according to the embodiment, a vehicle V that is likely to become unusable due to a decrease in the remaining amount of charge can be excluded from the transfer process because it is considered unsuitable for the transfer process.

In addition, one vehicle includes a main vehicle in which the user U rides and a sub-vehicle that is used together with the main vehicle.

Therefore, according to the rental system 1 according to the embodiment, it is possible to rent the vehicle V for luggage as well as for boarding to one user U.

The sub-vehicle is a vehicle V for cargo, and the controller 103 determines that the vehicle V for cargo needs to be replaced because the remaining charge level of the vehicle V for cargo is less than a predetermined value. When there is no cargo vehicle V nearby, a vehicle V other than the cargo vehicle V, that is, another vehicle V not originally intended for cargo may be used as the sub-vehicle.

Therefore, according to the rental system 1 according to the embodiment, it is possible to improve, for example, the usage turnover rate of the vehicle V in the vehicle V rental service within the facility.

Also, in the above-described embodiment, the vehicle V has a capacity of about 1 to 2 people, but it may be a vehicle that can accommodate 3 or more people.

In addition, there may be other restrictions on transfers, such as conditions for permitting transfers, or there may be no restrictions. The condition for permitting the transfer may include a case where some abnormality occurs in the vehicle V, such as a failure in the traveling system of the vehicle V, in addition to a decrease in battery capacity.

Also, when moving between floors of a building, you may allow transfer. Also, in this case, the vehicle V without a passenger may be put on standby so that the user U can get on the vehicle immediately after moving between floors. The waiting place is, for example, the exit of stairs, the exit of an elevator or an escalator, and the like.

In addition, the following conditions (1) to (3) may be provided for adding a vehicle V as a sub-vehicle. (1) is that when the vehicle V is rented out, the contract is based on a plan with a sub-vehicle. (2) is that the weight or volume of the luggage carried by the user U is equal to or greater than a predetermined amount. (3) is that the user U has made purchases of a predetermined amount or more in the facility. That is, the addition of the sub-vehicle may be permitted when the OR conditions (1) to (3) are met or when the AND conditions are met. In the case of (3) above, the sub-vehicle may be made available without additional charge.

As for the sub-vehicles, not all vehicles V can be selected, but vehicles V that can be ridden by people and vehicles V that are not suitable for transporting cargo are excluded, and vehicles V for cargo transportation are excluded. The selectable vehicles V may be limited, for example, by limiting to .

Also, in the case of a group of multiple people, the sub-vehicle may not be a vehicle V for transporting luggage, but a vehicle V in which people can ride. In this case, instead of managing individuals in the group individually, they are managed on a group-by-group basis.

Also, the processing order of steps S107 and S108 shown in FIG. 17 may be reversed. Alternatively, steps S107 and S108 may be executed after temporarily securing the vehicle V to be used after changing trains so that no one can use it.

Also, in the above-described embodiment, the rental status of the vehicle V is managed for each user U, but it may be managed for each authentication device such as a mobile terminal or an authentication card.

Also, although not shown in FIGS. 14 and 15, for each vehicle V, depending on the type of each vehicle V, there are main dedicated (riding dedicated), sub dedicated (load carrying dedicated), main use priority, sub use priority. Such classification information may be added and managed.

Further effects and modifications can be easily derived by those skilled in the art. Therefore, the broader aspects of the invention are not limited to the specific details and representative embodiments so shown and described. Accordingly, various changes may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the general inventive concept defined by the appended claims and equivalents thereof.

1 rental system 10 in-vehicle device 14 control unit 14a vehicle control unit

14b acquisition unit

14c detection unit 14d notification control unit 14e security control unit 100 server device 103 control unit 103a reservation processing unit 103b authentication unit 103c vehicle management unit 103d instruction unit U user V vehicle

Claims

For one vehicle among a plurality of vehicles that can be rented, when one user is authenticated using authentication information given to each user, the one vehicle is put into a state of being rented to the one user. and a control unit that executes a transfer process to shift the vehicle and, if a vehicle other than the one vehicle is in a state of being rented to the one user, cancel the state of being rented out to the other vehicle. lending system.
2. The rental system according to claim 1, which provides a rental service for the vehicle within a facility.
The control unit
When the transfer processing is executed, the other vehicle used by the one user before execution of the transfer processing is further shifted to a lendable state to a user other than the one user. 3. The rental system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by:
The control unit
4. The lending system according to claim 1, 2, or 3, wherein the execution of the transfer process is prohibited if a transfer permission condition is not satisfied before the transfer process is executed.
5. The rental system according to claim 4, wherein said transfer permission condition is that the remaining energy level of said other vehicle is equal to or less than a predetermined value.
The first vehicle is
including a main vehicle on which the one user rides and a sub-vehicle used in combination with the main vehicle;
The control unit
6. The rental system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein when managing the rental status of the vehicle, the main vehicle and the sub-vehicle are separately managed.
7. The rental system according to claim 6, wherein the sub-vehicle is a vehicle that is rented for transporting luggage.
A rental method executed by a computer included in a vehicle rental system,
For one vehicle among a plurality of vehicles that can be rented, when one user is authenticated using authentication information given to each user, the one vehicle is put into a state of being rented to the one user. and a control step of executing a transfer process for transferring the vehicle and, if a vehicle other than the one vehicle is in a state of being rented to the one user, canceling the state of being rented out to the other vehicle. Lending method to be.