Information processing device, information processing method, and information processing program

Abstract

This disclosure aims to improve work efficiency when employees use multiple business applications and to reduce the risk of operational errors. [Solution] The information processing device comprises a plurality of business applications used by an employee driving a vehicle for business purposes, and an integrated application that controls the operating state of the plurality of business applications, wherein the information processing device comprises a processor, and the processor switches the operating state of each of the plurality of business applications based on the business status of the vehicle acquired by the integrated application.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an information processing apparatus, an information processing method, and an information processing program. [Background Art]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a taxi dispatch application system that can quickly implement taxi dispatch orders and reservations only through a simple operation on a customer communication terminal. [Prior Art Literature] [Patent Literature]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2014-29580 [Summary of the Invention] [Problem to be Solved by the Invention]

[0004] Incidentally, in taxis as disclosed in Patent Document 1, devices such as tablet terminals operated by drivers to perform their work have been introduced. Currently, a plurality of taxi dispatch application systems exist, and taxi companies desire to introduce a plurality of dispatch application systems in order to acquire more dispatch orders. However, since a tablet terminal is required for each taxi dispatch application system, it becomes necessary to arrange a plurality of tablet terminals inside the vehicle.

[0005] Therefore, in commercial vehicles such as taxis, it is necessary to operate a plurality of tablet terminals, which complicates the work of drivers, and there is a problem that when notifications are simultaneously issued from a plurality of applications, the risk of operation errors by drivers increases.

[0006] Therefore, an object of the present disclosure is to improve work efficiency when a worker uses a plurality of business applications, and to reduce the risk of operation errors. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The information processing device disclosed herein comprises a plurality of business applications used by an employee driving a vehicle for business purposes, and an integrated application that controls the operating state of the plurality of business applications, wherein the information processing device comprises a processor, and the processor switches the operating state of each of the plurality of business applications based on the business state of the vehicle acquired by the integrated application. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to this disclosure, it is possible to improve work efficiency when employees use multiple business applications and reduce the risk of operational errors. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] This figure shows an example of the schematic configuration of an information processing system. [Figure 2] This block diagram shows the hardware configuration of crew terminals, passenger terminals, and servers. [Figure 3] This is a block diagram showing the storage configuration of the crew terminal. [Figure 4] This diagram illustrates the applications stored on the crew member's terminal. [Figure 5] The first figure shows the UI screen of the crew member's terminal. [Figure 6] The second figure shows the UI screen of the crew member's terminal. [Figure 7] This is the first diagram showing the processing sequence in an information processing system. [Figure 8] This is the third diagram, showing the UI screen of the crew member's terminal. [Figure 9] This is the fourth figure, showing the UI screen of the crew member's terminal. [Figure 10] Figure 5 shows the UI screen of the crew terminal. [Figure 11]FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a UI screen of a crew terminal. [Figure 12] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a UI screen of a crew terminal. [Figure 13] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a processing sequence in an information processing system. [Figure 14] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a processing sequence in an information processing system. [Figure 15] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a UI screen of a crew terminal. [Figure 16] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a UI screen of a crew terminal. [Figure 17] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a processing sequence in an information processing system. [Figure 18] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a processing sequence in an information processing system. [Figure 19] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a processing sequence in an information processing system. [Figure 20] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a UI screen of a crew terminal. [Figure 21] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a processing sequence in an information processing system. [Figure 22] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a processing sequence in an information processing system. [Figure 23] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a UI screen of a crew terminal. [Figure 24] FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a UI screen of a crew terminal. [Figure 25] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a processing sequence in an information processing system. [Figure 26] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a processing sequence in an information processing system. [Figure 27] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a processing sequence in an information processing system. DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0010] Hereinafter, the information processing system 10 according to the present embodiment will be described. Figure 1 shows an example of the schematic configuration of the information processing system 10.

[0011] As shown in Figure 1, the information processing system 10 includes a taxi meter 15, a driver terminal 20, a passenger terminal 40, and a server 60.

[0012] The taxi meter 15 and the driver's terminal 20 are connected to each other so that they can communicate with one another using communication standards such as Wi-Fi (registered trademark) and Bluetooth (registered trademark).

[0013] The crew terminal 20 and the passenger terminal 40 are connected to each other via network N1, enabling communication between them. The crew terminal 20 and the server 60 are connected to each other via network N2, enabling communication between them. Networks N1 and N2 are separate networks. Here, networks N1 and N2 can be, for example, the Internet, a LAN (Local Area Network), or a WAN (Wide Area Network).

[0014] The taxi meter 15 is a device installed in a taxi that automatically calculates the fare based on the distance traveled, time, etc. The taxi meter 15 has a function that allows the driver to switch between the taxi's operational status, such as vacant, on-call, occupied, and payment status, by operating various buttons installed on it. The taxi meter 15 also supports the work of the taxi driver by notifying the driver terminal 20 of information corresponding to each operational status. Detailed explanations of the known functions of the taxi meter 15 are omitted. The taxi is an example of a "vehicle" in this disclosure, the taxi driver is an example of an "operator" in this disclosure, and the taxi meter 15 is an example of an "output device" in this disclosure.

[0015] The driver terminal 20 is a tablet device used by drivers who operate taxis for business purposes. The driver terminal 20 is an example of the "information processing device" and "computer" in this disclosure.

[0016] The passenger terminal 40 is a device used by taxi passengers. The passenger terminal 40 can be a mobile device such as a smartphone or tablet.

[0017] Server 60 is a device that performs processing related to taxi operations, such as dispatch management, taxi location information management, and reservation acceptance, and communicates with the driver terminal 20 to acquire various data. Detailed explanations of the known functions of Server 60 are omitted. Furthermore, the configuration of Server 60 is not limited to a single device; the above-mentioned processing may be performed by a single device or distributed processing may be performed by multiple devices.

[0018] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the crew terminal 20, passenger terminal 40, and server 60. Since the crew terminal 20, passenger terminal 40, and server 60 are basically typical computer configurations, the crew terminal 20 will be used as a representative example for this explanation.

[0019] As shown in Figure 2, the crew terminal 20 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 21, ROM (Read Only Memory) 22, RAM (Random Access Memory) 23, storage 24, input unit 25, display unit 26, and communication unit 27. Each component is connected to the others via a bus 28 so that they can communicate with each other.

[0020] The CPU 21 is a central processing unit that executes various programs and controls various components. Specifically, the CPU 21 reads a program from the ROM 22 or storage 24 and executes the program using the RAM 23 as a working area. The CPU 21 controls each of the above components and performs various calculations according to the program stored in the ROM 22 or storage 24. The CPU 21 is an example of a "processor" in this disclosure.

[0021] ROM22 stores various programs and data. RAM23 temporarily stores programs or data as a working area.

[0022] Storage 24 consists of storage devices such as HDDs (Hard Disk Drives), SSDs (Solid State Drives), or flash memory, and stores various programs and data.

[0023] The input unit 25 includes, for example, various buttons, a microphone, and a camera, and is used for various types of input.

[0024] The display unit 26 is, for example, a liquid crystal display and displays various information. The display unit 26 employs a touch panel system and also functions as an input unit 25. The display unit 26 is an example of the "display unit" in this disclosure.

[0025] The communication unit 27 is an interface for communicating with other devices. For this communication, wireless communication standards such as 4G, 5G, or Wi-Fi (registered trademark) may be used.

[0026] Furthermore, the functions of the CPU 41, ROM 42, RAM 43, storage 44, input unit 45, display unit 46, communication unit 47, and bus 48 of the passenger terminal 40, and the functions of the CPU 61, ROM 62, RAM 63, storage 64, input unit 65, display unit 66, communication unit 67, and bus 68 of the server 60 are the same as the functions of the CPU 21, ROM 22, RAM 23, storage 24, input unit 25, display unit 26, communication unit 27, and bus 28 of the crew terminal 20 described above.

[0027] Figure 3 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the storage 24 of the crew terminal 20. As shown in Figure 3, the storage 24 stores an information processing program 24A that causes the CPU 21 to perform various processes described later. When executing the information processing program 24A, the crew terminal 20 uses the hardware resources shown in Figure 2 to perform processing based on the information processing program 24A. The information processing program 24A is an example of an "information processing program" in this disclosure.

[0028] Figure 4 illustrates the applications stored in the driver terminal 20 installed in taxi T.

[0029] As shown in Figure 4, taxi T is equipped with a taxi meter 15 and a driver terminal 20.

[0030] The taxi meter 15 is equipped with a driver information acquisition unit 15A and a work status processing unit 15B. The driver information acquisition unit 15A is a functional unit that reads card information from the driver card (described later) and outputs it to the driver terminal 20, and can reliably acquire important information such as driver identification information and work history. Based on this information, authentication information for efficient management of operations is generated. The work status processing unit 15B is a functional unit that receives operations (e.g., operation of various buttons) or inputs related to the work status, determines the work status, and outputs or notifies (displays, etc.) the appropriate work status (vacant, picking up, occupied, payment, etc.) to the driver terminal 20, and supports the smooth execution of operations by notifying the driver of changes in the work status intuitively and immediately.

[0031] The driver terminal 20 stores several business applications, including a navigation application (hereinafter referred to as "navigation app") AP2, a payment application (hereinafter referred to as "payment app") AP3, and dispatch applications (hereinafter referred to as "dispatch apps") AP4 to AP6. Note that the number of dispatch apps stored in the driver terminal 20 is not limited to three; it may be fewer or more.

[0032] The AP2 navigation app provides route guidance based on the current location of the taxi T, displaying the route to the pick-up point and destination.

[0033] The AP3 payment app is an application that handles passenger fare payment processing, including selecting payment methods, managing advance payments, and displaying payment results.

[0034] The ride-hailing apps AP4-AP6 are applications that process ride-hailing requests, notify customers of order information, and manage order acceptance.

[0035] Furthermore, the driver terminal 20 stores an integrated application (hereinafter referred to as "integrated application") AP1 that controls the operating status of the navigation application AP2, the payment application AP3, and the ride-hailing applications AP4 to AP6. Here, "operating status" includes two states: foreground and background.

[0036] The CPU 21 controls the integrated application AP1 and switches the operating states of the navigation application AP2, payment application AP3, and ride-hailing applications AP4-AP6 based on the operational status of taxi T obtained from the taxi meter 15. Specifically, when the CPU 21 switches the operating state to the foreground, it increases the amount of resources allocated to that application. On the other hand, when the CPU 21 switches to the background, it decreases the amount of resources allocated to that application. Here, resources refer to system resources such as CPU processing power, memory usage, network bandwidth, and display area.

[0037] For example, when taxi T is vacant, CPU 21 runs the navigation app AP2 in the foreground, increasing CPU processing power and display area allocation. On the other hand, in the same state, CPU 21 runs the payment app AP3 and the ride-hailing apps AP4 through AP6 in the background, minimizing memory usage.

[0038] Furthermore, CPU21 controls the integrated application AP1, ensuring that the navigation application AP2, payment application AP3, and ride-hailing applications AP4-AP6 operate via a common API (Application Programming Interface). This allows each application to utilize the common interface provided by integrated application AP1, facilitating information exchange based on business status and easy coordination between applications. Integrated application AP1 functions as a framework, enabling each application to efficiently perform business status notifications and data exchange by being aware of the integrated application AP1's mechanism.

[0039] Furthermore, the driver terminal 20 contains an authentication application (hereinafter referred to as the "authentication application") AP7 that manages the authentication of the navigation application AP2, the payment application AP3, and the ride-hailing applications AP4 to AP6. Here, managing authentication includes collectively executing logins to and logouts from each of the above applications.

[0040] Furthermore, notifications from the taxi meter 15 to the driver's terminal 20 are provided to the integrated app AP1 or the authentication app AP7, and are not directly sent to the navigation app AP2, the payment app AP3, or the ride-hailing apps AP4-AP6.

[0041] Figure 5 is the first diagram showing the user interface (UI) screen of the crew terminal 20. The display unit 26 of the crew terminal 20 is divided into two areas, a main display area 26A and a sub-display area 26B, in order to display information necessary for performing duties with good visibility. The main display area 26A is an example of the "first display area" of this disclosure, and the sub-display area 26B is an example of the "second display area" of this disclosure.

[0042] The main display area 26A displays information about the application running in the foreground, allowing the crew to check the most necessary information according to their work situation. On the other hand, the sub-display area 26B displays the crew-oriented operation interface provided by the integrated application AP1, allowing for intuitive switching between applications. A specific example of the operation interface will be described later.

[0043] The sub-display area 26B is smaller than the main display area 26A, reducing the operational burden on the crew while supporting the smooth execution of duties. The division of the main display area 26A and the sub-display area 26B, as well as the display control of each area, are performed by the CPU 21 controlling the integrated application AP1.

[0044] Figure 6 is the second diagram showing the UI screen of the driver terminal 20. Specifically, Figure 6 shows the driver registration screen before the driver starts work in taxi T.

[0045] The main display area 26A shown in Figure 6 displays a message 30 for the crew and GUI buttons 31 for maintenance personnel to configure the system. Specifically, message 30 displays "Vehicle number: 1234 Please register the crew," prompting the crew to complete the registration procedure.

[0046] The sub-display area 26B shown in Figure 6 displays a status display unit 32 indicating the operational status of taxi T, and vehicle information 33 showing information related to taxi T. In Figure 6, the status display unit 32 is blank, indicating that taxi T is in a state before commencing operations. In addition, the vehicle information 33 only shows the vehicle number "1234" because driver registration is incomplete, and the name of the driver operating taxi T is not displayed.

[0047] Furthermore, a GUI button 34 for manual driver registration is displayed in the sub-display area 26B, and the driver registration process is started when the driver operates the GUI button 34. The driver registration process can also be started by inserting a driver card issued at the office into the taxi meter 15 and operating a designated button to perform a departure operation. In the case of manual registration, the driver operates the GUI button 34 and enters a designated ID and a designated password. The designated ID is, for example, the driver number. Subsequently, in the driver registration process, the driver's authentication information is obtained based on the driver information identified based on the input information. Details of the driver registration process will be described later.

[0048] In addition, GUI buttons 50 to 54 are displayed in the sub-display area 26B as an operation interface for the driver. Each button is used to run a specific application in the foreground. Specifically, GUI button 50 corresponds to the ride-hailing application AP4, GUI button 51 to the ride-hailing application AP5, GUI button 52 to the ride-hailing application AP6, GUI button 53 to the navigation application AP2, and GUI button 54 to the payment application AP3. Note that the number of GUI buttons 50 to 52 is the same as the number of ride-hailing applications stored, which is three in this embodiment.

[0049] Figure 7 is the first diagram showing the processing sequence in the information processing system 10. Specifically, Figure 7 shows the processing sequence for driver registration processing in the driver terminal 20. Driver registration processing is a series of procedures for drivers to log in to multiple business applications when they start working in taxi T. The subsequent processing sequence is executed by the CPU 21 controlling the integrated application AP1, navigation application AP2, payment application AP3, dispatch applications AP4-AP6, and authentication application AP7. Figure 7 also describes the processing sequence for driver registration processing using a driver card.

[0050] First, in processing sequence (1), the driver inserts their driver card into the taxi meter 15 and operates a designated button to perform a departure operation. A departure operation is an operation in which the driver operates the taxi meter 15 to instruct the taxi T to begin operations. As a result of this operation, in processing sequence (2), the taxi meter 15 transmits operation information indicating a departure operation to the authentication application AP7. Next, in processing sequence (3), the authentication application AP7 obtains driver information from the taxi meter 15. This driver information includes basic information such as driver ID and name, as well as work-related information such as affiliated business office, license number, and work history, and key information for obtaining authentication information necessary to log in to each business application. Note that work-related information includes the driver's attributes. Driver attributes include, for example, driving experience, evaluation score, languages ​​spoken, familiarity with the driving area, operational record, safe driving record, and status of special training completion. The vehicle departure operation is an example of the "vehicle operation commencement operation" in this disclosure, and the crew information is an example of the "worker information" in this disclosure.

[0051] Next, in processing sequence (4), the authentication app AP7 uses the acquired key information to obtain the driver authentication information necessary for authentication with the navigation app AP2, the payment app AP3, and the ride-hailing apps AP4-AP6. The authentication information includes, for example, the user ID and password for logging into each business app, but is not limited to this. The authentication information may be obtained by the authentication app AP7 directly from its own system or through another system. In processing sequence (5), the authentication app AP7 uses the acquired authentication information to automatically send login authentication requests to each app.

[0052] Then, in processing sequence (6), the navigation app AP2, payment app AP3, and ride-hailing apps AP4-AP6 each return a success result to the authentication app AP7. Based on this result, the driver terminal 20 completes the login to each app, and the driver becomes able to use each app for work.

[0053] Here, we will explain an example of when a different employee (such as a maintenance worker) uses the crew terminal 20 instead of a crew member. Figure 8 is a third diagram showing the UI screen of the crew terminal 20. Specifically, Figure 8 shows the case when a maintenance worker operates the GUI button 31 on the UI screen shown in Figure 6. When a maintenance worker operates the GUI button 31, a pop-up display 35 is displayed in the main display area 26A.

[0054] The pop-up display 35 provides an authentication interface for maintenance personnel to perform system configuration work. The pop-up display 35 includes a password input field 35A, a login button 35B to transition to the system configuration screen, and a cancel button 35C to close the pop-up display 35. By entering a password in input field 35A and operating the login button 35B, the maintenance personnel can transition to the system configuration screen. Alternatively, by operating the cancel button 35C, the maintenance personnel can close the pop-up display 35 and return to the original screen.

[0055] Figure 9 is the fourth diagram showing the UI screen of the crew terminal 20. Specifically, Figure 9 shows the case when transitioning from the UI screen shown in Figure 8 to the system settings screen. In Figure 9, the screen shown is displayed when a maintenance worker performs system settings for the payment application AP3.

[0056] When a maintenance worker operates the login button 35B in Figure 8, the integrated application AP1 displays the system settings screen of the payment application AP3 in the main display area 26A. The main display area 26A displays a group of GUI buttons 70 for the maintenance worker to configure the payment application AP3. The maintenance worker can perform various settings of the payment application AP3 by operating these GUI buttons 70.

[0057] Furthermore, a setting completion button 55 is displayed in the sub-display area 26B, and by operating this setting completion button 55, the maintenance worker can finish the system setting work and return to the original screen. The control of the main display area 26A and the sub-display area 26B is performed by the CPU 21 controlling the integrated application AP1.

[0058] Figure 10 is the fifth diagram showing the UI screen of the driver terminal 20. Specifically, Figure 10 shows the state after a driver who has completed driver registration has operated the vacant button on the taxi meter 15, as shown in the UI screen of Figure 6. When a driver operates the vacant button, the taxi meter 15 sends operation information indicating a vacant operation to the integrated application AP1. Upon receiving this operation information, the integrated application AP1 notifies the dispatch applications AP4 to AP6 that the taxi's operational status is vacant, and also runs the navigation application AP2 in the foreground, displaying the navigation screen in the main display area 26A. On the navigation screen, a marker V representing the taxi T is displayed at a position corresponding to the taxi T's current location.

[0059] Furthermore, since the integrated application AP1 has acquired operation information indicating a vacant taxi, the status display unit 32 in the sub-display area 26B displays "Vacant," indicating that taxi T is vacant. In addition, since the driver registration is complete, the vehicle information 33 displays the driver's name in addition to the vehicle number.

[0060] The integrated application AP1 displays an order acceptance button 36 in the sub-display area 26B. The order acceptance button 36 shown in Figure 10 indicates that taxi T is in a state where dispatch orders are not being taken. Furthermore, the integrated application AP1 displays only GUI buttons 50-53 in the sub-display area 26B for switching the operating status of business applications according to the vehicle availability status, and hides the GUI button 54 corresponding to the payment application AP3. GUI buttons 50-53 are examples of the "switching buttons" described herein.

[0061] Figure 11 is the sixth diagram showing the UI screen of the driver terminal 20. Specifically, Figure 11 shows the state after the driver has operated the order acceptance button 36 on the UI screen shown in Figure 10. When the driver operates the order acceptance button 36, the integrated application AP1 sends a notification to the dispatch applications AP4 to AP6 that order acceptance has begun. Upon receiving this notification, the dispatch applications AP4 to AP6 operate in the background and enter a state of waiting for dispatch order acceptance.

[0062] Figure 11 shows that the display content of the order acceptance button 36 in the sub-display area 26B changes, indicating that taxi T is ready to accept dispatch orders. This allows drivers to easily understand their current work status. Drivers can cancel the dispatch order acceptance waiting state by operating the order acceptance button 36 again, for example, when cruising for fares or waiting at a station, or when they want to temporarily stop accepting dispatch orders. In this case, the integrated application AP1 notifies the dispatch applications AP4 to AP6 that the dispatch order acceptance has been canceled and updates the operating status of each dispatch application AP4 to AP6.

[0063] Figure 12 is the seventh diagram showing the UI screen of the driver terminal 20. Specifically, Figure 12 shows the state after an order has been placed from the dispatch app AP4 in the UI screen shown in Figure 11. When the dispatch app AP4 notifies the integrated app AP1 of the order information, the integrated app AP1 displays a pop-up 37 in the main display area 26A. The pop-up 37 includes a message 37A showing the order information and an acceptance button 37B for accepting the order. Specifically, the message 37A displays "Order Information An order has been placed Pick-up location 578m".

[0064] The integrated app AP1 displays notifications in a common format as a pop-up 37 in the main display area 26A, not only for orders from the ride-hailing app AP4, but also for orders from other ride-hailing apps such as the ride-hailing app AP5. This "common format" means that a unified display design is adopted, regardless of the ride-hailing app. For example, the message 37A displays information about the pickup location, and the acceptance button 37B is always placed in the same position.

[0065] The driver can accept the order by confirming the order information shown in message 37A and operating the accept button 37B. If the accept button 37B is not operated within the acceptance timeout period, the integrated application AP1 automatically cancels the order and moves to the next order waiting state. For example, the acceptance timeout period may be displayed on the pop-up 37 with a countdown of remaining seconds. This countdown display allows the driver to visually confirm the remaining time and increases their awareness of the time remaining. This is expected to encourage drivers to respond quickly, which is a measure taken by taxi companies and dispatch systems that want orders to be taken as quickly as possible. When the accept button 37B is operated, the integrated application AP1 notifies the dispatch application AP4 of the order acceptance information and confirms the dispatch request.

[0066] Figure 13 is a second diagram showing the processing sequence in the information processing system 10. Specifically, Figure 13 shows the processing sequence in the empty vehicle state.

[0067] First, in processing sequence (10), the driver operates the vacant button on the taxi meter 15 to make the taxi vacant. As a result of this operation, in processing sequence (11), the taxi meter 15 sends operation information indicating the taxi vacant operation to the integrated application AP1. Next, in processing sequence (12), the integrated application AP1 instructs the navigation application AP2 to start the main processing, causing the navigation application AP2 to run in the foreground and increasing the amount of resources used. In processing sequence (13), the navigation application AP2 displays the navigation screen in the main display area 26A.

[0068] Subsequently, in processing sequence (14), when the driver operates the order acceptance button 36, the integrated app AP1 recognizes that order acceptance has begun. In processing sequence (15), the integrated app AP1 sends a notification to the dispatch apps AP4 to AP6 that order acceptance has begun, and each dispatch app operates in the background, waiting for dispatch orders to be accepted.

[0069] Furthermore, in processing sequence (16), the ride-hailing app AP4 acquires order information, and in processing sequence (17), the ride-hailing app AP4 notifies the integrated app AP1 of the order information. The order information includes, for example, at least the location information of the pick-up point and the passenger's name. It may also include the location information of the destination. In processing sequence (18), the integrated app AP1 changes the main display and displays a popup 37 in the main display area 26A.

[0070] In processing sequence (19), when the driver operates the acceptance button 37B, the integrated application AP1 recognizes that the order has been received, and in processing sequence (20), it notifies the dispatch application AP4 that the order has been received. Furthermore, in processing sequence (21), the integrated application AP1 updates the navigation screen to display the pick-up location and navigation route, etc.

[0071] Finally, in processing sequence (22), the integrated application AP1 notifies the ride-hailing applications AP5 to AP6 that it will stop accepting ride-hailing orders, and in processing sequence (23), the ride-hailing applications AP5 to AP6 execute the process to stop accepting orders.

[0072] Figure 14 is a third diagram showing the processing sequence in the information processing system 10. Specifically, Figure 14 shows the processing that occurs when, in the processing sequence shown in Figure 13, the ride-hailing app AP5 acquires new order information immediately after receiving an order from the ride-hailing app AP4.

[0073] First, in processing sequence (30), the ride-hailing app AP5 acquires new order information. Next, in processing sequence (31), the ride-hailing app AP5 notifies the integrated app AP1 of the acquired order information. This notification indicates the occurrence of a new ride-hailing request.

[0074] Next, in processing sequence (32), the integrated application AP1, knowing that it has already accepted an order from the ride-hailing application AP4, notifies the ride-hailing application AP5 of an event indicating that the ride-hailing order is to be rejected. As a result, in processing sequence (33), the ride-hailing application AP5 rejects the ride-hailing order.

[0075] Figure 15 is the eighth diagram showing the UI screen of the driver terminal 20. Specifically, Figure 15 shows the state after the driver has operated the reception button 37B in the UI screen shown in Figure 12, and is heading to the pick-up location of the passenger who placed the order. When the driver operates the pick-up button on the taxi meter 15, the taxi meter 15 sends operation information indicating the pick-up operation to the integrated application AP1. Upon receiving this operation information, the integrated application AP1 notifies the dispatch applications AP4 to AP6 that the taxi's operational status is in the pick-up state, and requests route guidance to the pick-up location from the navigation application AP2. Based on the request, the navigation application AP2 displays the route R1 to the pick-up location and a marker C indicating the pick-up location in the main display area 26A, and starts route guidance.

[0076] Furthermore, when the integrated application AP1 acquires operation information indicating a pickup operation, the status display unit 32 in the sub-display area 26B displays "Pickup" indicating that taxi T is in a pickup state. In addition, pickup information 39 indicating the passenger's name and pickup location is displayed in the sub-display area 26B, as well as the arrival button 38 that should be operated when arriving at the pickup location. In Figure 15, the arrival button 38 is not yet operated.

[0077] In addition, the integrated application AP1 displays only GUI buttons 50 and 53 in the sub-display area 26B for switching the operating state of the business application according to the vehicle pickup status, while hiding the other GUI buttons. GUI buttons 50 and 53 are examples of the "switching buttons" in this disclosure.

[0078] Figure 16 is the ninth diagram showing the UI screen of the driver terminal 20. Specifically, Figure 16 shows the state after the taxi T has arrived at the pick-up location and the driver has pressed the arrival button 38. Figure 16 shows the case where the driver interacts with the passenger using the functions of the ride-hailing app AP4.

[0079] When a driver operates the arrival button 38, the integrated application AP1 displays the dispatch application AP4 screen in the main display area 26A. In this case, the integrated application AP1 brings the dispatch application AP4, which was running in the background, into the foreground, increasing the amount of resources used. As a result, the pop-up 80 is displayed in the main display area 26A as the screen of the dispatch application AP4. The pop-up 80 is displayed to verify the identity of the passenger. The pop-up 80 includes a message button 80A for the driver, a phone button 80B for verifying identity by phone, a message button 80C for verifying identity through message exchange using the functions of the dispatch application AP4, and a report button 80D for reporting to the driver's workplace.

[0080] Furthermore, the navigation app AP2 indicates that taxi T has arrived at the pickup location by moving marker V to marker C in the main display area 26A. In addition, the navigation app AP2 erases route R1 upon arrival at the pickup location.

[0081] Figure 17 is the fourth diagram showing the processing sequence in the information processing system 10. Specifically, Figure 17 shows the processing sequence in the vehicle pickup state.

[0082] First, in processing sequence (40), the driver operates the dispatch button on the taxi meter 15 to dispatch a taxi. As a result of this operation, in processing sequence (41), the taxi meter 15 transmits operation information indicating the dispatch operation to the integrated application AP1.

[0083] Next, in processing sequence (42), the integrated application AP1 instructs the navigation application AP2 to start route guidance to the pick-up location. In processing sequence (43), the navigation application AP2 starts route guidance to the pick-up location, which was obtained from the ride-hailing application AP4 that processed the passenger's ride-hailing request, on the navigation screen displayed in the main display area 26A.

[0084] Subsequently, in processing sequence (44), when the driver operates the arrival button 38, the integrated application AP1 recognizes that taxi T has arrived at the pick-up location.

[0085] In processing sequence (45), the integrated application AP1 notifies the ride-hailing application AP4 of the arrival event at the pick-up location. Upon receiving this notification, the ride-hailing application AP4 displays a pop-up 80 in the main display area 26A in processing sequence (46), providing a screen for verifying the passenger's identity.

[0086] Figure 18 is the fifth diagram showing the processing sequence in the information processing system 10. Specifically, Figure 18 shows the processing that is performed when a delay is expected due to road conditions, etc., in the vehicle pickup state.

[0087] First, in processing sequence (50), the driver operates the GUI button 50 in the sub-display area 26B. As a result of this operation, in processing sequence (51), the integrated application AP1 notifies the dispatch application AP4 of an event indicating that a UI screen switching operation has been performed. Then, the integrated application AP1 moves the dispatch application AP4, which was running in the background, to the foreground, increasing the amount of resources used.

[0088] Next, in processing sequence (52), the ride-hailing app AP4 displays a pop-up 80 in the main display area 26A, providing a screen that enables interaction with passengers. The screen enabling interaction with passengers may be a dedicated screen for the ride-hailing app AP4. In this case, the ride-hailing app can offer unique features that appeal to taxi companies in order to differentiate itself from competitors, and implement an optimal interface tailored to the needs of taxi companies.

[0089] Subsequently, in processing sequence (53), the crew member enters a message by operating the message button 80C in the pop-up 80. In processing sequence (54), the entered message is sent to the passenger's terminal via the ride-hailing app AP4.

[0090] In processing sequence (55), the passenger enters their response to the message via the ride-hailing app AP4, and in processing sequence (56), the passenger's response message is displayed in the popup 80.

[0091] In processing sequence (57), the crew member operates the GUI button 54 in the sub-display area 26B. As a result, in processing sequence (58), the integrated application AP1 removes the popup 80 from the main display area 26A, and displays only the navigation screen from the navigation application AP2 in the main display area 26A.

[0092] Figure 19 is the sixth diagram showing the processing sequence in the information processing system 10. Specifically, Figure 19 shows the processing performed when there are no passengers at the boarding location in the pick-up state.

[0093] First, in processing sequence (60), the crew member operates the message button 80C in the pop-up 80 to enter a message to contact the passenger. Next, in processing sequence (61), the entered message is sent to the passenger's terminal using the functions of the ride-hailing app AP4.

[0094] Subsequently, in processing sequence (62), the passenger enters their response to the message via the ride-hailing app AP4. In processing sequence (63), the passenger's response is displayed in the pop-up 80, allowing the driver to determine the passenger's current location and travel to that location.

[0095] Figure 20 is the tenth diagram showing the UI screen of the driver terminal 20. Specifically, Figure 20 shows the state of the vehicle in operation, with a passenger in the vehicle and heading towards the destination. When the driver operates the "in operation" button on the taxi meter 15, the taxi meter 15 transmits operation information indicating the operation to the integrated application AP1. Based on the received operation information, the integrated application AP1 requests route guidance from the navigation application AP2 based on the destination information included in the order information. Based on the request, the navigation application AP2 displays the route R2 to the destination and the marker P indicating the destination in the main display area 26A and starts route guidance.

[0096] Furthermore, when the integrated application AP1 acquires operation information indicating actual vehicle operation, the status display section 32 in the sub-display area 26B displays "Vehicle" indicating that taxi T is in a vehicle-occupied state. In addition, the sub-display area 26B displays vehicle information 82 showing the passenger's name and destination, and a cancel button 81 for canceling the vehicle-occupied state. If a cancellation occurs due to the passenger's circumstances, or if the driver accidentally picks up another passenger, they can cancel the vehicle-occupied state by operating the cancel button 81.

[0097] In addition, the integrated application AP1 displays only GUI buttons 50, 53, and 54 for switching the operating state of the business application according to the actual vehicle status in the sub-display area 26B, while hiding the other GUI buttons. GUI buttons 50, 53, and 54 are examples of the "switching buttons" in this disclosure.

[0098] Figure 21 is the seventh diagram showing the processing sequence in the information processing system 10. Specifically, Figure 21 shows the processing sequence in the actual vehicle state.

[0099] First, in processing sequence (70), the driver operates the "in use" button on the taxi meter 15 to perform the "in use" operation. As a result of this operation, in processing sequence (71), the taxi meter 15 transmits operation information indicating the "in use" operation to the integrated application AP1.

[0100] Next, in processing sequence (72), the integrated application AP1 notifies the ride-hailing application AP4 of an event indicating that a passenger who requested a ride using the ride-hailing application AP4 has boarded taxi T. Upon receiving this notification, the ride-hailing application AP4 performs the process of updating the passenger status.

[0101] Next, in processing sequence (73), the integrated application AP1 instructs the navigation application AP2 to start route guidance to the destination. In processing sequence (74), the navigation application AP2 starts route guidance to the destination on the navigation screen displayed in the main display area 26A.

[0102] Figure 22 is the eighth diagram showing the processing sequence in the information processing system 10. Specifically, Figure 22 shows the processing in the actual vehicle state when a destination is not specified in advance, that is, when the passenger does not specify a destination when requesting a ride, or when the driver confirms and sets the destination verbally from the passenger according to the taxi company's policy. Thus, Figure 22 shows how to handle cases where the order information does not include the location information of the destination.

[0103] First, in processing sequence (80), the crew confirms the destination with the passenger. Next, in processing sequence (81), the passenger replies with the destination. Then, in processing sequence (82), the crew manually enters the destination into the navigation app AP2 and instructs it to start route guidance.

[0104] In processing sequence (83), the navigation application AP2 starts providing route guidance to the destination on the navigation screen displayed in the main display area 26A.

[0105] Figure 23 is the eleventh diagram showing the UI screen of the driver terminal 20. Specifically, Figure 23 shows the payment status when a passenger has arrived at their destination and is paying the fare. When the driver operates the payment button on the taxi meter 15, the taxi meter 15 sends operation information indicating the payment operation to the integrated application AP1. Upon receiving this operation information, the integrated application AP1 runs the payment application AP3 in the foreground, and the payment application AP3 displays the payment screen in the main display area 26A. The integrated application AP1 also notifies the dispatch application AP4 that the taxi T has entered the payment status.

[0106] The payment screen in the main display area 26A displays payment amount information 83, advance payment information 84, payment button 85, payment method change button 86, message 87, and GUI button group 88. The payment amount information 83 shows the fare that the passenger must pay (e.g., "1000 yen"), and the advance payment information 84 shows the amount advanced by the crew (e.g., "0 yen"). The payment button 85 is for confirming payment via online payment selected at the time of dispatch. The payment method change button 86 is for changing from online payment to in-vehicle payment. Message 87 displays notes for the crew. The GUI button group 88 consists of buttons for canceling the payment process, entering advance payments, and changing the payment amount.

[0107] Furthermore, upon acquiring operation information indicating a payment operation, the status display unit 32 in the sub-display area 26B displays "Payment," indicating that a payment is in progress. As a result of the payment, the cancel button 81 in the sub-display area 26B becomes inoperable. The integrated application AP1 displays only GUI buttons 50 and 54 in the sub-display area 26B for switching the operating state of the business application according to the payment status, while hiding the other GUI buttons. GUI buttons 50 and 54 are examples of the "switching buttons" described herein.

[0108] Figure 24 is the twelfth diagram showing the UI screen of the crew terminal 20. Specifically, Figure 24 shows the state after the crew member operates the payment method change button 86 in the UI screen shown in Figure 23, based on a request from a passenger. When the crew member operates the payment method change button 86, the integrated application AP1 displays a group of payment method selection buttons 89 in the main display area 26A. The group of payment method selection buttons 89 has multiple buttons that allow the selection of multiple payment methods, such as cash, credit card, and electronic money, and the crew member can select the payment method desired by the passenger.

[0109] When a crew member operates one of the 89 payment method selection buttons, the integrated app AP1 notifies the payment app AP3 of the selected payment method. This confirms the passenger's preferred payment method and prepares the system for payment processing. After selecting the payment method, the crew member can continue with the payment processing, and the appropriate processing will be carried out according to the selected payment method. Note that other payment-related operations may be restricted until the payment method selection is complete.

[0110] Figure 25 is the ninth diagram showing the processing sequence in the information processing system 10. Specifically, Figure 25 shows the processing sequence when making an online payment in the payment state.

[0111] First, in processing sequence (90), the driver operates the payment button on the taxi meter 15 to perform the payment operation. As a result of this operation, in processing sequence (91), the taxi meter 15 sends operation information indicating the payment operation to the integrated application AP1.

[0112] Next, in processing sequence (92), the integrated application AP1 notifies the payment application AP3 of an event indicating that online payment has been selected, and also runs the payment application AP3 in the foreground, increasing the amount of resources used. In processing sequence (93), the payment application AP3 displays the payment screen in the main display area 26A.

[0113] Subsequently, in processing sequence (94), the crew member operates the payment button 85, instructing the payment application AP3 to start online payment. In processing sequence (95), the payment application AP3 notifies the integrated application AP1 that the payment button 85 has been operated.

[0114] In processing sequence (96), the integrated application AP1 notifies the ride-hailing application AP4 of the instruction to perform online payment and fare information, etc. In processing sequence (97), the ride-hailing application AP4 processes the payment via the passenger's credit card or electronic payment service based on a known payment processing method.

[0115] In processing sequence (98), the ride-hailing app AP4 notifies the integrated app AP1 of the payment result, and in processing sequence (99), the integrated app AP1 notifies the payment app AP3 of the payment result and payment amount. In processing sequence (100), the payment app AP3 displays the payment result in the main display area 26A and disables the operation of the payment button 85 to confirm the payment.

[0116] In processing sequence (101), the integrated application AP1 notifies the taxi meter 15 of the settlement result and payment amount. Finally, in processing sequence (102), the taxi meter 15 updates the daily report data. This daily report data includes the fare, payment method, settlement time, ride distance, and user information, in accordance with taxi industry practices.

[0117] Figure 26 is the tenth diagram showing the processing sequence in the information processing system 10. Specifically, Figure 26 shows the processing sequence when making an in-vehicle payment in a payment state. Note that in Figure 26, it is assumed that the processing up to (93) in the processing sequence of Figure 25 has been completed.

[0118] First, in processing sequence (110), the crew confirms the payment method with the passenger, and in processing sequence (111), the passenger responds with their preferred payment method, such as credit card or electronic money. Next, in processing sequence (112), the crew operates one of the payment method selection buttons 89 according to the passenger's response.

[0119] In processing sequence (113), the integrated application AP1 notifies the payment application AP3 of the in-vehicle payment and the selected payment method. In processing sequence (114), the payment application AP3 activates the payment terminal X installed inside the taxi T and notifies the payment method and payment amount.

[0120] In processing sequence (115), payment terminal X provides payment instructions to the passenger using text and voice, and in processing sequence (116), the passenger pays the fare using the payment method selected by the passenger. Subsequently, in processing sequence (117), payment terminal X performs the payment processing, and in processing sequence (118), it notifies payment application AP3 of the payment method, payment amount, and processing result (successful completion, etc.).

[0121] In processing sequence (119), payment app AP3 notifies integrated app AP1 of the payment result. In processing sequence (120), payment app AP3 displays the payment result in the main display area 26A. In processing sequence (121), integrated app AP1 notifies taxi meter 15 of the payment result. In processing sequence (122), taxi meter 15 prints a receipt, and the driver hands the receipt to the passenger.

[0122] In processing sequence (123), the taxi meter 15 notifies the integrated application AP1 of the print result. In processing sequence (124), the integrated application AP1 notifies the payment application AP3 of the print result. Finally, in processing sequence (125), the taxi meter 15 updates the daily report data.

[0123] Figure 27 is the eleventh diagram showing the processing sequence in the information processing system 10. Specifically, Figure 27 shows the processing sequence when a crew member enters an advance payment in the payment status.

[0124] First, in processing sequence (130), the crew member operates the advance payment input button from the GUI button group 88 and enters the advance payment amount. This notifies the payment application AP3 of the advance payment information. Next, in processing sequence (131), the payment application AP3 notifies the integrated application AP1 of an event indicating that the advance payment has been entered and the entered advance payment amount.

[0125] In processing sequence (132), the integrated application AP1 notifies the taxi meter 15 that the amount will be replaced by the input of the advance payment and the amount of the advance payment. In processing sequence (133), the taxi meter 15 notifies the integrated application AP1 of the meter information, including the updated payment amount after the input of the advance payment.

[0126] In processing sequence (134), the integrated application AP1 notifies the payment application AP3 of the updated payment amount. Finally, in processing sequence (135), the payment application AP3 updates the payment screen in the main display area 26A. Specifically, the payment application AP3 updates the contents of the payment amount information 83 and the advance payment information 84, providing accurate payment information to passengers and crew members.

[0127] As explained above, in the driver terminal 20, the CPU 21 switches the operating states of the navigation app AP2, payment app AP3, and dispatch apps AP4-AP6 based on the operational status of the taxi T acquired by the integrated app AP1. As a result, in the driver terminal 20, the operating states of the navigation app AP2, payment app AP3, and dispatch apps AP4-AP6 are switched based on the operational status of the taxi T, allowing the driver to execute the necessary business apps according to the operational status and avoid executing unnecessary business apps. Furthermore, in the driver terminal 20, the navigation app AP2, payment app AP3, dispatch apps AP4-AP6, and integrated app AP1 are consolidated into a single tablet terminal, eliminating the need for the driver to switch terminals and simplifying operation. Therefore, the driver terminal 20 can improve the operational efficiency of drivers when using multiple business apps and reduce the risk of operational errors.

[0128] Furthermore, in the driver terminal 20, the CPU 21 runs at least one of the navigation app AP2, payment app AP3, and ride-hailing apps AP4-AP6 in the background until the conditions for running at least one of them in the foreground are met by the integrated app AP1. Here, the conditions for running in the foreground include the taxi T entering a specific work state and one of the GUI buttons 50-54 being operated. As a result, according to the driver terminal 20, the driver can concentrate on the necessary work apps, suppress accidental operation of unnecessary work apps, and enable appropriate allocation of the device's resources.

[0129] Furthermore, in the driver terminal 20, when taxi T becomes vacant, the CPU 21 uses the integrated application AP1 to run the navigation application AP2 in the foreground and the dispatch applications AP4-AP6 in the background. As a result, according to the driver terminal 20, the driver can concentrate on the information necessary for vacant taxi operations, suppress unnecessary operations related to dispatch operations, and continuously receive dispatch requests.

[0130] Furthermore, in the driver terminal 20, when taxi T is in a dispatch state, the CPU 21 uses the integrated application AP1 to run the navigation application AP2 in the foreground. The navigation application AP2 then starts guiding the passenger to the pickup location, which is obtained from the dispatch application AP4 that processed the passenger's dispatch request. As a result, according to the driver terminal 20, the driver can grasp the information necessary for dispatch operations in a highly visible format, enabling smooth dispatch operations.

[0131] Furthermore, in the driver terminal 20, when taxi T becomes occupied, the CPU 21 uses the integrated application AP1 to notify dispatch application AP4, which processed the passenger's dispatch request among the dispatch applications AP4 to AP6, that the passenger has boarded. At the same time, it starts the navigation application AP2 in the foreground and initiates route guidance to the passenger's destination using the navigation application AP2. As a result, according to the driver terminal 20, manual operation by the driver is reduced when the integrated application AP1 notifies dispatch application AP4, and route guidance to the passenger's destination is immediately started when the navigation application AP2 runs in the foreground, enabling the driver to transport the passenger accurately and smoothly to their destination.

[0132] Furthermore, in the driver terminal 20, when taxi T becomes occupied, the CPU 21 uses the integrated application AP1 to run the navigation application AP2 in the foreground and stops accepting dispatch requests from the dispatch application running in the background. As a result, according to the driver terminal 20, for example, when the taxi becomes occupied while cruising or waiting at a station, the navigation application AP2 immediately starts running in the foreground, thus improving operational efficiency. At the same time, by automatically stopping the acceptance of dispatch requests from the dispatch application running in the background, the effort of responding to unnecessary dispatch requests is saved, further promoting operational efficiency.

[0133] Furthermore, in the driver terminal 20, the CPU 21, using the integrated application AP1, runs one of several dispatch applications (e.g., dispatch application AP4) in the foreground, while running the remaining dispatch applications (e.g., dispatch applications AP5 to AP6) in the background. As a result, according to the driver terminal 20, the driver can concentrate on necessary dispatch requests and avoid dealing with unnecessary dispatch applications, thereby improving work efficiency.

[0134] Furthermore, in the driver terminal 20, when taxi T enters payment mode, the CPU 21 uses the integrated application AP1 to run the payment application AP3 in the foreground. As a result, according to the driver terminal 20, the driver can immediately execute the passenger fare payment procedure, enabling rapid settlement processing, while also suppressing errors in other business applications and ensuring accurate and smooth work execution.

[0135] Furthermore, in the crew terminal 20, the CPU 21 uses the integrated application AP1 to display information of the business application running in the foreground from among multiple business applications in the main display area 26A of the display unit 26. The CPU 21 then uses the integrated application AP1 to display the crew-oriented operation interface provided by the integrated application AP1 in the sub-display area 26B of the display unit 26. As a result, with the crew terminal 20, crew members can efficiently operate while grasping the necessary information with high visibility, enabling them to perform their duties quickly and accurately while suppressing errors.

[0136] Furthermore, in the crew terminal 20, the CPU 21 uses the integrated application AP1 to display at least one of the GUI buttons 50-54, corresponding to the work status, from among multiple business applications running in the background, in the sub-display area 26B. The CPU 21 then uses the integrated application AP1 to run the business application corresponding to one of the GUI buttons 50-54 operated by the crew member in the foreground and displays the information of that business application in the main display area 26A. As a result, according to the crew terminal 20, the crew member can intuitively select the necessary business application and run it in the foreground, and can quickly check the necessary information in the main display area 26A, thereby improving work efficiency and reducing errors.

[0137] Furthermore, in the driver terminal 20, when at least one of the dispatch apps AP4 to AP6 issues a notification, the CPU 21 uses the integrated app AP1 to display the notification content of the dispatch app that issued the notification as a pop-up in the main display area 26A in a format common to all dispatch apps AP4 to AP6. As a result, according to the driver terminal 20, the burden on the driver to check notification content across different dispatch apps is reduced, enabling a quick and accurate response to dispatch requests.

[0138] Furthermore, in the driver terminal 20, the CPU 21 adds detailed information about the passenger's boarding location to the notification content displayed as a pop-up by the integrated application AP1, based on the acquired driver information. For example, if the CPU 21 determines that the driver's attributes included in the acquired driver information meet predetermined requirements and that the driver is a good driver, it adds detailed information to the notification content and displays it. The detailed information includes, for example, the exact address of the boarding location, nearby landmarks, a detailed map link to the boarding location, the passenger's preferred boarding method, guidance based on traffic conditions, passenger requests, and consideration of weather information. As a result, the driver terminal 20 provides notification content optimized for each driver, enabling responses tailored to the individual driver's attributes, reducing the burden of decision-making, and contributing to improved service quality.

[0139] Furthermore, in the driver terminal 20, if at least two of the ride-hailing apps AP4 to AP6 issue notifications, the CPU 21 uses the integrated app AP1 to prioritize the notification content of the ride-hailing app with the highest pre-set priority, displaying it as a pop-up in the main display area 26A. Specific examples of priority include low fees, high fares, distance to the pick-up location, likelihood of repeat customers, ride-hailing app contract terms, short estimated arrival time, low cancellation rate, and passenger trustworthiness. Priority can be set based on any one of the above factors, or by combining multiple factors. As a result, according to the driver terminal 20, drivers can respond quickly and accurately to the most important information without being distracted by multiple notifications, contributing to increased efficiency in ride-hailing operations and improved service quality.

[0140] Furthermore, in the driver terminal 20, the CPU 21 obtains the necessary driver authentication information for the navigation app AP2, payment app AP3, and dispatch apps AP4-AP6 based on the driver information, using the authentication app AP7. Then, the CPU 21 uses the acquired authentication information via the authentication app AP7 to perform authentication for the navigation app AP2, payment app AP3, and dispatch apps AP4-AP6. As a result, in the driver terminal 20, the authentication app AP7 comprehensively performs authentication for the navigation app AP2, payment app AP3, and dispatch apps AP4-AP6, eliminating the need for the driver to perform individual authentication for each app. Therefore, the driver terminal 20 can reduce the workload associated with authentication when drivers use multiple business applications.

[0141] Furthermore, in the driver terminal 20, the CPU 21 executes the authentication application AP7 when it receives a dispatch operation, and performs authentication for the navigation application AP2, the payment application AP3, and the dispatch applications AP4-AP6. A dispatch operation is an operation in which the driver operates a designated button on the taxi meter 15 to instruct the taxi T to begin operations. As a result, according to the driver terminal 20, the driver does not need to perform individual authentication for each business application at the start of operations, enabling a quick start to operations.

[0142] Furthermore, in the driver terminal 20, the CPU 21 executes the authentication application AP7 when it receives a return-to-depot operation, and logs out from the navigation application AP2, payment application AP3, and dispatch applications AP4-AP6. A return-to-depot operation is an operation in which the driver signals the end of work for taxi T by operating a designated button on the taxi meter 15. As a result, according to the driver terminal 20, the driver does not need to individually log out from the navigation application AP2, payment application AP3, and dispatch applications AP4-AP6, simplifying the procedures at the end of work, ensuring security, and enabling a quick end to work.

[0143] Furthermore, taxi T may be a commercial vehicle used by multiple drivers, including the same driver and other drivers, on a rotating basis. In this case, when CPU 21 receives a departure or return operation, it executes the authentication application AP7 and logs out the navigation application AP2, payment application AP3, and dispatch applications AP4-AP6, respectively. As a result, according to the driver terminal 20, when a driver changes, the previous driver's authentication is logged out, eliminating the need for individual logout operations and ensuring security and enabling a rapid change of drivers.

[0144] Furthermore, in the driver terminal 20, the CPU 21 controls the execution of the authentication application AP7 based on the operation information of the taxi T's departure and return operations obtained from the taxi meter 15. As a result, according to the driver terminal 20, drivers do not need to perform individual authentication procedures at the start and end of their shifts, reducing the risk of misauthentication due to manual operation, and improving operational efficiency and security.

[0145] Furthermore, in the driver terminal 20, the CPU 21 obtains driver information from the taxi meter 15. According to the driver terminal 20, the authentication application AP7 automatically obtains authentication information based on the driver information obtained from the taxi meter 15 and performs authentication quickly, eliminating the need for manual input and improving operational efficiency while reducing the risk of authentication errors.

[0146] As described above, the information processing system 10 includes a driver terminal 20 and a taxi meter 15 that can communicate with the driver terminal 20. The taxi meter 15 accepts an operation to switch the taxi's operational status and outputs operational status information corresponding to the operational status based on the accepted operation, along with driver information, to the driver terminal 20. The driver terminal 20 acquires the operational status information and driver information using the authentication application AP7 and performs authentication for the driver identified by the driver information for the navigation application AP2, payment application AP3, and dispatch applications AP4-AP6, according to the operational status indicated in the operational status information. As a result, according to the information processing system 10, the authentication application AP7 efficiently performs authentication for the navigation application AP2, payment application AP3, and dispatch applications AP4-AP6 according to the operational status based on the operational status information and driver information acquired from the taxi meter 15, thereby reducing the burden of authentication work on the driver and lowering the risk of authentication errors.

[0147] (others) While embodiments of the present disclosure have been described in detail above with reference to the attached drawings, the technical scope of the present disclosure is not limited to these examples. It is clear that a person with ordinary skill in the art of the present disclosure may conceive of various modifications or alterations within the scope of the technical idea set forth in the claims, and these modifications or alterations are also understood to fall within the technical scope of the present disclosure.

[0148] Furthermore, the effects described in the above embodiments are descriptive or illustrative, and are not limited to those described in the above embodiments. In other words, the technology relating to this disclosure may produce other effects that would be obvious to a person with ordinary skill in the art of this disclosure from the descriptions in the above embodiments, in addition to or in lieu of the effects described in the above embodiments. For example, the configuration of the above embodiments may produce the following effects:

[0149] In the above embodiment, the CPU 21 controls the integrated application AP1 to switch the operating states of the navigation application AP2, payment application AP3, and ride-hailing applications AP4-AP6 between foreground and background depending on the business status. By optimizing hardware resources in this way, the burden on the driver terminal 20, such as CPU processing power and memory usage, is reduced, and the operating costs of the driver terminal 20 can be reduced. In addition, since each application operates through the mechanism of the integrated application AP1, the burden of individual development for each application is reduced, and development costs and maintenance costs can be reduced.

[0150] In the above embodiment, the crew can manage navigation, payment, and dispatch operations uniformly on a single tablet terminal, which is the crew terminal 20. This integrated work environment eliminates the need to switch between multiple terminals and systems, thereby improving operational efficiency.

[0151] In the above embodiment, the main display area 26A and sub-display area 26B of the crew terminal 20 are provided with a unified UI by the integrated application AP1. Furthermore, the integrated application AP1 appropriately switches the operating state of each application and runs the application necessary for the job in the foreground, thereby supporting intuitive operation by the crew. This suppresses errors in application operation and improves the reliability of work.

[0152] In the above embodiment, the integrated application AP1 efficiently manages the operation of each application on the crew terminal 20, thereby speeding up operations. Furthermore, the navigation application AP2 provides optimal route guidance and the payment application AP3 provides smooth payment processing, enabling crew members to respond quickly and accurately. As a result, passenger waiting times are reduced, service quality is improved, and customer satisfaction increases.

[0153] In the above embodiment, the integrated application AP1 provides a common UI for the navigation application AP2, the payment application AP3, and the ride-hailing applications AP4 to AP6. This unified UI allows drivers to learn how to operate different applications through a unified interface, thereby reducing training time and learning costs.

[0154] In the above embodiment, the CPU 21 controls the authentication application AP7 to perform authentication for the navigation application AP2, the payment application AP3, and the ride-hailing applications AP4 to AP6 in a unified manner. This configuration ensures that authentication for each application is performed uniformly and reliably, allowing drivers to reliably use the necessary services at the start of their shift. This prevents delays in operations due to authentication errors and manual input errors during authentication, enabling the smooth execution of operations.

[0155] In the above embodiment, the automatic login process is performed via the authentication application AP7. This configuration eliminates the need for crew members to repeat different authentication procedures for each application, thus preventing them from spending long periods of time on unfamiliar operations. This reduces the burden on crew members, enables smoother work execution, reduces the occurrence of operational errors, and improves operational efficiency.

[0156] The processing described in the above embodiment can also be implemented using dedicated hardware circuits. In this case, it may be executed on one piece of hardware or on multiple pieces of hardware.

[0157] In the above embodiment, a driver engaged in taxi services was described as a specific example of an employee who drives a vehicle for business purposes. However, the scope of application of this disclosure is not limited to this. For example, the configuration of the above embodiment can also be applied to delivery drivers in the delivery industry, truck drivers in the transportation industry, and drivers engaged in ride-sharing services.

[0158] Furthermore, even in expanded business areas, the configuration of this disclosure can be applied by having the CPU 21 control the integrated application AP1 and switch the operating state of multiple business applications (e.g., navigation application, delivery management application, customer management application, etc.) based on the acquired business status of the business vehicle. For example, in the delivery industry, it is possible to run the delivery management application in the foreground and other applications in the background depending on the business status of the delivery vehicle.

[0159] Furthermore, even in expanded business areas, the configuration of this disclosure can be applied by having the CPU21 control the authentication application AP7, acquire the necessary authentication information for each of the multiple business applications based on the employee information of the business vehicles, and then use the acquired authentication information to perform authentication for each of the multiple business applications. This makes it possible to provide an environment in which employees in delivery and transportation businesses can use business applications quickly and securely.

[0160] In the above embodiment, the CPU 21 may control the application based on the driver's fatigue level. Specifically, the integrated application AP1 collects biometric information obtained from vital sensors (e.g., pulse meter, sweat sensor, posture sensor, etc.) and wearable devices such as smartwatches connected to the driver terminal 20, and calculates the fatigue level. If the calculated fatigue level exceeds a predetermined threshold, the CPU 21 controls the integrated application AP1 to have the navigation application AP2 present recommended rest areas or adjust the dispatch notification frequency of the dispatch applications AP4 to AP6. In this way, the configuration may be such that the workload is adjusted according to the driver's fatigue level.

[0161] In the above embodiment, the CPU 21 may control the dispatch priority according to weather conditions. Specifically, the integrated application AP1 cooperates with a weather data provision service to obtain weather forecast information (e.g., rain, snow, strong winds, etc.) and changes the priority of the dispatch applications AP4 to AP6 in real time. For example, in an area where rain is predicted, the CPU 21 causes the integrated application AP1 to prioritize notification of covered pick-up locations, and in the event of snowfall, causes the navigation application AP2 to provide a route that avoids slippery routes. In this way, the system may be configured to provide appropriate dispatch and driving support according to weather conditions.

[0162] In the above embodiment, the CPU 21 may perform customized control of notification priorities according to the driver's work style and preferences. In this case, the CPU 21 controls the integrated application AP1 to learn the driver's work history and adjust the notification priorities of the dispatch applications AP4 to AP6 in specific areas and time periods. Thus, a configuration that allows for flexible notification settings to improve the driver's work efficiency may be used.

[0163] In the above embodiment, the CPU 21 may control the application according to the passenger's degree of urgency. In this case, the CPU 21 links the integrated application AP1 with the passenger's smartphone application and determines the degree of urgency from calendar information and travel speed data, etc. If the degree of urgency is high, the CPU 21 may control the integrated application AP1 to have the navigation application AP2 guide the passenger along the shortest route, or to have the route optimization continue even after the vehicle has been driven.

[0164] In the above embodiment, the CPU 21 may perform notification control based on the driver's work history. In this case, the CPU 21 causes the integrated application AP1 to analyze the work history data stored in the driver terminal 20 and optimizes the notification content of the dispatch applications AP4 to AP6 based on past work patterns (e.g., high-profit areas, passenger refusal rate, etc.). For example, the CPU 21 may send a notification prioritizing short distances to drivers who accept many short-distance rides, and a notification prioritizing profits to drivers who prioritize accepting rides in high-profit areas. Thus, the configuration may support the improvement of the driver's work efficiency and the maximization of profits.

[0165] In the above embodiment, the CPU 21 may be configured to support the prevention of parking violations. In this case, the CPU 21 links the integrated application AP1 with the navigation application AP2 to obtain map data of no-parking zones and evaluates the appropriateness of the pick-up and drop-off points. If the passenger's pick-up point falls within a no-parking zone, the CPU 21 suggests alternative pick-up and drop-off points on the main display area 26A of the driver terminal 20. Furthermore, the CPU 21 links the integrated application AP1 with the dispatch applications AP4 to AP6 to notify the passenger of an appropriate pick-up and drop-off location. Thus, the configuration may support the avoidance of parking violations.

[0166] In the above embodiment, the taxi meter 15 is not limited to operating in a separate hardware enclosure in conjunction with the driver terminal 20. It can also operate on the same enclosure as the driver terminal 20, or it can be a software meter operating on the driver terminal 20. In this case, the integrated application AP1 manages the memory area within the driver terminal 20 as the operating environment for the taxi meter 15 and controls the functions of the taxi meter 15 as a software meter, thereby enabling integrated business processing within the driver terminal 20. This allows for flexible system operation, reduces hardware costs, and enables efficient business execution by optimizing the resources of the driver terminal 20.

[0167] In the above embodiment, notifications from various applications were displayed as pop-ups in the main display area 26A, but the notification method is not limited to this. For example, voice guidance (notifications) can also be used. In this case, the crew member can respond hands-free, enabling operation with safety in mind. While operation may also be possible based on eye gaze detection, using voice notifications that do not rely on vision is also an effective safety measure to avoid eye gaze detection. Furthermore, to accommodate environments where sound cannot be heard, integration with wearable devices such as smartwatches can be considered. This allows notifications to be conveyed through vibration, making it possible to accommodate crew members with visual or hearing limitations. In this case, a dedicated application for integration with the smartwatch should be installed on the crew member terminal 20. Through the dedicated application, the crew member can receive and respond to message notifications and receive phone calls, simplifying operation and improving work efficiency.

[0168] In the above embodiment, in the processing sequence (19) of Figure 13, after the driver operates the reception button 37B to receive the order, the CPU 21 may switch the taxi's operational status to the pick-up state. This eliminates the need for the driver to perform a separate pick-up operation on the taxi meter 15, reducing an extra step.

[0169] In the above embodiment, the information processing program 24A was stored in the storage 24. However, the invention is not limited to this, and the information processing program 24A may also be stored in the ROM 22.

[0170] Furthermore, although the above embodiment describes an embodiment in which the information processing program 24A is pre-stored (installed) in the storage 24, the invention is not limited thereto. The information processing program 24A may be provided in the form of a recording medium such as a CD-ROM (Compact Disk Read Only Memory), DVD-ROM (Digital Versatile Disk Read Only Memory), and USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory. Alternatively, the information processing program 24A may be provided in the form of a download from an external device via a network. The technology disclosed herein can also be applied to programs and program products.

[0171] In each of the above embodiments, the term "processor" refers to a processor in a broad sense, and includes general-purpose processors (e.g., CPU: Central Processing Unit, etc.) and dedicated processors (e.g., GPU: Graphics Processing Unit, ASIC: Application Specific Integrated Circuit, FPGA: Field Programmable Gate Array, programmable logic device, etc.).

[0172] Furthermore, the processor operations in each of the above embodiments may not be performed by a single processor, but may also be performed by multiple processors located in physically separate locations working together. Alternatively, some or all of the operations performed by specific multiple processors in each of the above embodiments may be integrated and performed by a single processor. In addition, the order of the processor operations is not limited to the order described in each of the above embodiments, and may be changed as appropriate.

[0173] All documents, patent applications, and technical standards described herein are incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual document, patent application, and technical standard were specifically and individually noted to be incorporated by reference.

[0174] (Note 1) An information processing device comprising multiple business applications used by employees who drive vehicles for business purposes, and an integrated application that controls the operating status of the multiple business applications, The aforementioned information processing device includes a processor, The processor switches the operating state of each of the multiple business applications based on the operational status of the vehicle acquired by the integrated application. Information processing device.

[0175] (Note 2) The processor causes at least one of the multiple business applications to run in the background until the integrated application satisfies the conditions for at least one of the multiple business applications to run in the foreground. The information processing device described in Appendix 1.

[0176] (Note 3) The aforementioned employee is a taxi driver, When the vehicle becomes vacant, the processor, through the integrated application, causes the navigation application that provides route guidance to run in the foreground and the dispatch application that processes dispatch requests to run in the background. The information processing device described in Appendix 2.

[0177] (Note 4) When the vehicle is in a ready-to-ride state, the processor causes the integrated application to run the navigation application in the foreground and initiates route guidance from the navigation application to the passenger's pick-up location, based on the pick-up location obtained from a specific pick-up application that processed the passenger's pick-up request. The information processing device described in Appendix 3.

[0178] (Note 5) When the vehicle enters a real-time vehicle state, the processor, via the integrated application, notifies the specific ride-hailing application of the passenger's arrival, and also runs the navigation application in the foreground, initiating route guidance to the passenger's destination via the navigation application. The information processing device described in Appendix 4.

[0179] (Note 6) When the vehicle enters a payment state, the processor, via the integrated application, causes the payment application, which processes passenger fare payments, to run in the foreground among the multiple business applications. The information processing device described in Appendix 5.

[0180] (Note 7) When the vehicle enters a real-time vehicle state, the processor, via the integrated application, causes the navigation application to run in the foreground and stops accepting dispatch requests from the dispatch application running in the background. The information processing device described in Appendix 3.

[0181] (Note 8) The aforementioned employee is a taxi driver, The processor, when one of the multiple ride-hailing applications that process ride-hailing requests is running in the foreground, runs the remaining ride-hailing applications in the background. An information processing device as described in any one of the appendices 2 through 7.

[0182] (Note 9) Equipped with a display unit, The aforementioned processor, through the integrated application, The first display area of ​​the display unit displays information about the business application running in the foreground among the multiple business applications. The operation interface for the operator provided by the integrated application is displayed in a second display area smaller than the first display area. An information processing device as described in any one of the appendices 1 through 8.

[0183] (Note 10) The aforementioned processor, through the integrated application, Among the multiple business applications running in the background, a toggle button for switching the operating state of a business application according to the business status is displayed in the second display area as the operation interface. The business application corresponding to the toggle button operated by the aforementioned employee is run in the foreground, and the information of the business application is displayed in the first display area. The information processing device described in Appendix 9.

[0184] (Note 11) The aforementioned employee is a taxi driver, The aforementioned multiple business applications include multiple dispatch applications that process dispatch requests, When at least one of the multiple ride-hailing applications issues a notification, the processor causes the integrated application to display the notification content of the ride-hailing application that issued the notification in the first display area in a format common to all of the multiple ride-hailing applications. The information processing device described in Appendix 9 or 10.

[0185] (Note 12) Based on the crew information, including the attributes of the crew member, the processor causes the integrated application to display the notification content with detailed information about the passenger's boarding location added. The information processing device described in Appendix 11.

[0186] (Note 13) When at least two of the multiple ride-hailing applications issue a notification, the processor causes the integrated application to display the notification content of the ride-hailing application with the highest pre-configured priority in the first display area. The information processing device described in Appendix 11 or 12.

[0187] (Note 14) A computer comprising multiple business applications used by employees who drive vehicles for business purposes, and an integrated application that controls the operating status of the multiple business applications, The integrated application switches the operating state of each of the multiple business applications based on the acquired operational status of the vehicle. An information processing method that performs a process.

[0188] (Note 15) A computer comprising multiple business applications used by employees who drive vehicles for business purposes, and an integrated application that controls the operating status of the multiple business applications, The integrated application switches the operating state of each of the multiple business applications based on the acquired operational status of the vehicle. An information processing program used to execute a process.

[0189] (Note 16) An information processing device comprising multiple business applications used by employees who drive vehicles for business purposes, and an authentication application that manages the authentication of the multiple business applications, The aforementioned information processing device includes a processor, The aforementioned processor, by the authentication application, Based on the employee information relating to the aforementioned employee, the authentication information of the employee necessary for the authentication of each of the multiple business applications is obtained. Using the acquired authentication information, authentication is performed for each of the multiple business applications. Information processing device.

[0190] (Note 17) When the processor receives a request to start operations for the vehicle, it executes the authentication application and performs authentication for each of the multiple business applications. The information processing device described in Appendix 16.

[0191] (Note 18) When the processor receives a request to terminate operations for the vehicle, it executes the authentication application and performs logout from each of the multiple business applications. The information processing device described in Appendix 16 or Appendix 17.

[0192] (Note 19) The aforementioned vehicle is a work vehicle used by multiple people, including the aforementioned employee and other employees, on a rotating basis. When the processor receives a command to start or end operations for the vehicle, it executes the authentication application and performs logout from each of the multiple business applications. The information processing device described in Appendix 18.

[0193] (Note 20) The aforementioned vehicle is a taxi, and the aforementioned employee is the driver of the said taxi. The processor controls the execution of the authentication application based on the operation information of the vehicle's start and end operations obtained from the taxi meter. An information processing device as described in any one of the appendices 17 to 19.

[0194] (Note 21) The processor obtains the employee information from the taxi meter. The information processing device described in Appendix 20.

[0195] (Note 22) A computer comprising multiple business applications used by employees who drive vehicles for business purposes, and an authentication application that manages the authentication of the said multiple business applications, The aforementioned authentication application, Based on the employee information relating to the aforementioned employee, the authentication information of the employee necessary for the authentication of each of the multiple business applications is obtained. Using the acquired authentication information, authentication is performed for each of the multiple business applications. An information processing method that performs a process.

[0196] (Note 23) A computer equipped with multiple business applications used by employees who drive vehicles for business purposes, and an authentication application that manages the authentication of the multiple business applications, The aforementioned authentication application, Based on the employee information relating to the aforementioned employee, the authentication information of the employee necessary for the authentication of each of the multiple business applications is obtained. Using the acquired authentication information, authentication is performed for each of the multiple business applications. An information processing program used to execute a process.

[0197] (Note 24) An information processing device described in any one of the appendices 16 to 21, An information processing system including an output device capable of communicating with the aforementioned information processing device, The output device is The system accepts an operation to switch the operational status of the aforementioned vehicle. The information processing device outputs work status information corresponding to the work status based on the received operation content, and worker information regarding the said worker. The information processing device, through the authentication application, The aforementioned work status information and the aforementioned employee information are acquired, Authentication of each of the multiple business applications for the employee identified in the aforementioned employee information is performed according to the business status indicated in the aforementioned business status information. Information processing system. [Explanation of symbols]

[0198] T Taxi (vehicle) 15 Taxi meter 20. Crew terminals (information processing devices and computers) 21 CPU (Processor) AP1 Integrated App (Integrated Application) AP2 Navigation App (Navigation Application) AP3 Payment App (Payment Application) AP4~AP6 Ride-hailing app (ride-hailing application) AP7 Authentication App (Authentication Application) 26 Display section 26A Main display area (first display area) 26B Sub-display area (second display area) 50-54 GUI buttons (toggle buttons)

Claims

1. An information processing device comprising multiple business applications used by employees who drive vehicles for business purposes, and an integrated application that controls the operating status of the multiple business applications, The aforementioned information processing device includes a processor, The processor switches the operating state of each of the multiple business applications based on the operational status of the vehicle acquired by the integrated application. Information processing device.

2. The processor causes at least one of the multiple business applications to run in the background until the integrated application satisfies the conditions for at least one of the multiple business applications to run in the foreground. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

3. The aforementioned employee is a taxi driver, When the vehicle becomes vacant, the processor, through the integrated application, causes the navigation application that provides route guidance to run in the foreground and the dispatch application that processes dispatch requests to run in the background. The information processing apparatus according to claim 2.

4. When the vehicle is in a pick-up state, the processor causes the integrated application to run the navigation application in the foreground and initiate route guidance by the navigation application toward the pick-up location obtained from a specific ride-hailing application that processed the passenger's ride-hailing request. The information processing apparatus according to claim 3.

5. When the vehicle enters a real-time vehicle state, the processor, via the integrated application, notifies the specific ride-hailing application of the passenger's arrival, and also runs the navigation application in the foreground, initiating route guidance to the passenger's destination via the navigation application. The information processing apparatus according to claim 4.

6. When the vehicle enters a payment state, the processor, via the integrated application, causes the payment application, which processes passenger fare payments, to run in the foreground among the multiple business applications. The information processing apparatus according to claim 5.

7. When the vehicle enters a real-time vehicle state, the processor, via the integrated application, causes the navigation application to run in the foreground and stops accepting dispatch requests from the dispatch application running in the background. The information processing apparatus according to claim 3.

8. The aforementioned employee is a taxi driver, The processor, when one of the multiple ride-hailing applications that process ride-hailing requests is running in the foreground, runs the remaining ride-hailing applications in the background. The information processing apparatus according to claim 2.

9. Equipped with a display unit, The aforementioned processor, through the integrated application, The first display area of ​​the display unit displays information about the business application running in the foreground among the multiple business applications. The operation interface for the operator provided by the integrated application is displayed in a second display area smaller than the first display area. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

10. The aforementioned processor, through the integrated application, Among the multiple business applications running in the background, a toggle button for switching the operating state of a business application according to the business status is displayed in the second display area as the operation interface. The business application corresponding to the toggle button operated by the aforementioned employee is run in the foreground, and the information of the business application is displayed in the first display area. The information processing apparatus according to claim 9.

11. The aforementioned employee is a taxi driver, The aforementioned multiple business applications include multiple dispatch applications that process dispatch requests, When at least one of the multiple ride-hailing applications issues a notification, the processor causes the integrated application to display the notification content of the ride-hailing application that issued the notification in the first display area in a format common to all of the multiple ride-hailing applications. The information processing apparatus according to claim 9.

12. Based on the crew information, including the attributes of the crew member, the processor causes the integrated application to display the notification content with detailed information about the passenger's boarding location added. The information processing apparatus according to claim 11.

13. When at least two of the multiple ride-hailing applications issue a notification, the processor causes the integrated application to display the notification content of the ride-hailing application with the highest pre-configured priority in the first display area. The information processing apparatus according to claim 11.

14. A computer comprising multiple business applications used by employees who drive vehicles for business purposes, and an integrated application that controls the operating status of the multiple business applications, The integrated application switches the operating state of each of the multiple business applications based on the acquired operational status of the vehicle. An information processing method that performs a process.

15. A computer comprising multiple business applications used by employees who drive vehicles for business purposes, and an integrated application that controls the operating status of the multiple business applications, The integrated application switches the operating state of each of the multiple business applications based on the acquired operational status of the vehicle. An information processing program used to execute a process.

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