vehicle

Abstract

The vehicle is mobile and includes: an access point function unit having an antenna that wirelessly communicates with terminal devices present in the vicinity of the vehicle, thereby functioning as an access point; and a reporting unit that reports to the surrounding area that the vehicle is functioning as an access point.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to vehicles. Background Technology

[0002] For example, in environments using portable terminal devices, access points are sometimes provided to mediate the transmission of radio waves between the terminal device and a base station. In recent years, research has been conducted on using vehicles as access points. There are technologies that, when using a vehicle as an access point, display advertisements to terminals connected to the access point (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

[0003] Prior art literature

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Publication No. 2019-521536 Summary of the Invention

[0006] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0007] When users of terminal devices use vehicles as access points, it is difficult to identify whether surrounding vehicles are functioning as access points.

[0008] This invention was made with the consideration of such circumstances in mind, and one of its objectives is to provide a system that can easily identify vehicles with access point functionality.

[0009] Solution for solving the problem

[0010] The vehicle of the present invention adopts the following structure.

[0011] (1): One aspect of the present invention relates to a vehicle capable of movement, wherein the vehicle comprises: an access point function unit having an antenna for wirelessly communicating with terminal devices present in the vicinity of the vehicle, thereby functioning as an access point; and a reporting unit for reporting to the surrounding area that the vehicle is functioning as an access point.

[0012] (2): Based on the above (1) scheme, the reporting unit includes a lamp body, which is turned on when the vehicle functions as an access point.

[0013] (3): Based on the above (2) scheme, the lamp body includes at least one of the following: turn indicator light, position light, headlight, taillight and interior light.

[0014] (4): Based on the above (3) scheme, the reporting unit includes a turn indicator light, which is kept lit when the vehicle is functioning as an access point.

[0015] (5): Based on the above (3) scheme, the reporting unit includes an interior light, which flashes when the vehicle is functioning as an access point.

[0016] (6): Based on the above (2) scheme, it also includes an illuminance measuring unit for measuring the illuminance around the vehicle body. When the illuminance measured by the illuminance measuring unit is less than the specified illuminance, the reporting unit reduces the amount of light emitted by the lamp body compared to the case where the illuminance measured by the illuminance measuring unit is greater than or equal to the specified illuminance.

[0017] (7): Based on the above (2) scheme, the antenna is directional, the lamp body is disposed in multiple parts of the vehicle body, and the reporting unit makes the light emitted by the lamp body installed on the first side pointed to by the antenna in the vehicle body greater than the light emitted by the lamp body installed on a part other than the first side.

[0018] (8): Based on the above (3) scheme, it also has a storage battery.

[0019] When the battery's charge level is above a specified charge level, the reporting unit increases the amount of light emitted by the lamp body compared to when the battery's charge level is below a specified charge level.

[0020] (9): Based on the above (2) scheme, it also has a storage battery that can be externally charged. When the storage battery is being externally charged, the reporting unit increases the amount of light emitted by the lamp body compared to when the storage battery is not being externally charged.

[0021] (10): Based on the above (2) scheme, it also has an acquisition unit that acquires information about the communication quality between the wireless base station and the access point function unit. When the communication quality acquired by the acquisition unit is above a specified quality, the reporting unit makes the light intensity of the light emitted by the lamp body different from that when the communication quality acquired by the acquisition unit is below the specified quality.

[0022] (11): Based on the above (1) scheme, the reporting unit reports to the surrounding area of ​​the vehicle that the wireless connection has been established when the wireless connection between the access point function unit and the terminal device has been established.

[0023] Invention Effects

[0024] Based on (1) to (11), it is easy to identify those with access point functionality.

[0025] According to (2) to (10), the situation can be easily identified by appealing to vision regarding the presence of access point functionality.

[0026] According to (3) to (5), the vehicle's existing equipment can be effectively utilized.

[0027] According to (4) and (5), it is not easy to cause confusion with the normal use of existing equipment, and it can also identify the situation of having access point function.

[0028] According to (6), it is possible to identify cases with access point functionality in a way that is appropriate for the surrounding environment.

[0029] According to (7), the direction of the antenna can be easily conveyed to the user.

[0030] According to (8) and (9), access point functionality can be provided with minimal impact on the vehicle's inherent performance.

[0031] According to (10), the communication quality of the access point can be identified.

[0032] According to (11), vehicles that have wireless connections can be easily identified. Attached Figure Description

[0033] Figure 1 This diagram illustrates an example of an intermediary for communication between a wireless base station 100 and a portable terminal 200 via a vehicle as described in the embodiment.

[0034] Figure 2 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the structure of vehicle 10.

[0035] Figure 3 This is an example of a vehicle viewed from the front side.

[0036] Figure 4 This is an example of viewing a vehicle from the rear side.

[0037] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process performed by vehicle 10.

[0038] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process performed by vehicle 10.

[0039] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process performed by vehicle 10.

[0040] Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process performed by vehicle 10.

[0041] Figure 9 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process performed by vehicle 10.

[0042] Figure 10 This is an example diagram showing how the lamp body 24 is lit or flashing.

[0043] Figure 11 This is an example diagram showing how the lamp body 24 is lit or flashing.

[0044] Figure 12 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the actions of user U, vehicle 10, and owner that occur over time during mediation based on vehicle 10.

[0045] Figure 13 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the actions of user U, vehicle 10, and owner that occur over time during mediation based on vehicle 10.

[0046] Figure 14 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the changing positional relationship between user U and vehicle 10. Detailed Implementation

[0047] Hereinafter, embodiments of the vehicle of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. The following embodiments do not limit the invention's technical solutions, and the combination of features described in the embodiments is not necessarily necessary for the solution of the invention. Vehicle 10 is provided as an electric motor vehicle, but vehicle 10 is preferably a vehicle equipped with a secondary battery that supplies electricity for vehicle 10's operation; it may also be a hybrid motor vehicle or a fuel cell vehicle. Vehicle 10 may also be a gasoline vehicle or a diesel vehicle that does not have a secondary battery that supplies electricity for operation.

[0048] The following describes the vehicle according to the implementation method.

[0049] [Overall Structure]

[0050] Figure 1 This diagram illustrates an example of an intermediary for communication between a wireless base station 100 and a portable terminal 200, carried out by a vehicle according to the embodiment. (See diagram for example.) Figure 1 As shown, vehicle 10 is mobile and can communicate with wireless base station 100 via network NW. Network NW is, for example, a cellular network.

[0051] The portable terminal 200 owned by user U is a terminal device capable of wirelessly communicating with vehicle 10 via a wireless LAN, such as Wi-Fi (registered trademark). The portable terminal 200 enables wireless communication with wireless base station 100 through vehicle 10 as an access point. The portable terminal 200 can also communicate wirelessly with wireless base station 100 via network NW without intermediary service from vehicle 10. It should be noted that the terminal device can also be a terminal device other than a portable terminal.

[0052] Figure 2 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the structure of vehicle 10. (For example...) Figure 2 As shown, the vehicle 10 includes, for example, a communication unit 12, an acquisition unit 14, an access point function unit 16, a control unit 18, a reporting unit 20, an illuminance measurement unit 30, a battery 40, and a battery sensor 42.

[0053] The communication unit 12 includes a wireless module for connecting to wireless communication networks such as wireless LANs and cellular networks. The acquisition unit 14 acquires the communication quality between the wireless base station 100 and the access point function unit 16. The communication quality includes, for example, the presence or absence of communication restrictions, the status of transmission and reception, and the success or failure of reception. The acquisition unit 14 outputs the acquired communication quality information to the report control unit 26.

[0054] Access point function unit 16 has an antenna 80. Access point function unit 16 accepts connection requests from external devices such as portable terminal 200. When access point function unit 16 receives a connection request from portable terminal 200 during the access point provision period, it mediates communication between portable terminal 200 and wireless base station 100 via network NW. Access point function unit 16 communicates wirelessly with portable terminals 200 present in the vicinity of vehicle 10, thereby functioning as an access point. Because access point function unit 16 functions as an access point, vehicle 10 functions as an access point.

[0055] The control unit 18 determines whether the access point is being provided. The access point is being provided during a specific time period. Access point provision conditions include, for example, either the vehicle 10 is parked, the battery 40 has a charge level of at least a reference charge level, or the battery 40 is being externally charged (charging). The reference charge level is the charge level used to determine whether the access point is being provided when the battery 40 is not charging.

[0056] The baseline charge level is set, for example, to the state of charge (SOC) of the battery 40 at a level that does not impede the driving of the vehicle 10. The baseline charge level is any preset value, such as 60%. The baseline charge level can also vary depending on the predicted actions of the owner of the vehicle 10. For example, the baseline charge level could be increased if the vehicle 10's destination is set far away, compared to if the destination is set nearby.

[0057] The access point function unit 16 can be used during the access point provision time. The control unit 18 outputs access point information such as whether the access point function can be used and the start of access point function use to the reporting unit 20.

[0058] The control unit 18 has an operating mode. The operating mode includes an on mode and an off mode. The on mode is the operating mode when the vehicle 10 functions as an access point. The off mode is the operating mode when the vehicle 10 does not function as an access point. The control unit 18 has the function of maintaining the operating mode in the off mode based on the operation of the owner of the vehicle 10.

[0059] There are two operating modes: a normal mode and a power-saving mode. The normal mode is the operating mode when the device is in power-on mode but not in power-saving mode. The power-saving mode is the operating mode used to reduce energy consumption compared to the normal mode when reporting based on the reporting unit 20.

[0060] The reporting unit 20 includes, for example, a wiper assembly 22, a light body 24, and a reporting control unit 26. The wiper assembly 22 includes... Figure 3 The wiper W is shown, along with the drive control unit that drives the wiper W. The wiper unit 22 is driven by the report control unit 26. The lamp body 24 includes, for example, turn signals 51, position lights 52, headlights 53, taillights 54, and interior lights 55.

[0061] The reporting unit 20 reports to the surrounding area that the vehicle 10 is functioning as an access point. For example, when the vehicle 10 is functioning as an access point, the reporting unit 20 drives the wipers W or illuminates or flashes various elements of the headlight 24. The reporting unit 20 adjusts the reporting method according to the operating mode set by the control unit 18. For example, the reporting unit 20 reduces the amount of light emitted by the headlight 53 when the control unit 18 has set the operating mode to normal mode, thereby reducing energy consumption. In power-saving mode, for example, the output of the headlight 24 is reduced or the operating speed of movable parts such as the wipers W is slowed down compared to normal mode.

[0062] The various elements of the lamp body 24 are disposed in multiple parts of the vehicle body 10. Under the control of the reporting control unit 26, the lamp body 24 illuminates or flashes the various elements of the turn indicator 51, position lights 52, headlights 53, taillights 54, and interior lights 55. Based on information such as the communication quality transmitted by the acquisition unit 14, the illuminance transmitted by the illuminance measurement unit 30, and the SOC of the battery 40 transmitted by the battery sensor 42, the reporting control unit 26 outputs instructions and controls the various elements of the lamp body 24 to the drive control unit of the wiper device 22.

[0063] Figure 3 This is an example of a vehicle viewed from the front side. Figure 4 This is an example diagram showing the vehicle viewed from the rear side. (See diagram for example.) Figure 2 and Figure 3As shown, the wiper W is, for example, mounted on the windshield of the vehicle 10. The turn indicator lights 51 are, for example, mounted on the left and right sides when viewed from the front of the vehicle 10 and on the left and right sides of the rear of the vehicle 10.

[0064] Position lights 52 are, for example, located on the left and right sides of the front of the vehicle 10. Headlights 53 are, for example, located slightly towards the center of the front of the vehicle 10, beyond the position lights. Taillights 54 are, for example, located on the rear side of the vehicle 10, surrounding the turn signals 51. Interior lights 55 are, for example, located inside the vehicle 10.

[0065] The wiper W operates based on controls corresponding to its intended use. For example, the wiper W operates intermittently in light rain, normally in moderate rain, and at high speed in heavy rain. The various elements of the lamp body 24 are illuminated or flashed based on controls corresponding to their respective intended uses. For example, the turn indicator 51 flashes based on the operation of a turn indicator switch (not shown). In addition to being controlled to illuminate or flash based on operations corresponding to their intended use, the various elements of the lamp body 24 are also controlled to illuminate or flash by the reporting control unit 26. The reporting control unit 26 can control the illumination or flashing of the various elements of the lamp body 24 either uniformly or individually.

[0066] An illuminance measuring unit 30 is installed, for example, on the exterior of the vehicle 10. The illuminance measuring unit 30 measures the illuminance around the vehicle 10. The measurement results of the illuminance measuring unit 30 are, for example, low illuminance at night and high illuminance during the day. The illuminance measuring unit 30 outputs the measured illuminance information to the report control unit 26.

[0067] Battery 40 is, for example, a secondary battery (rechargeable battery) capable of external charging, such as a lithium-ion battery. Battery 40 stores electricity drawn from an external charger connected to the vehicle 10, and discharges it for the purpose of driving the vehicle 10. The charger is located, for example, at the owner's home or a charging station in the city. Therefore, charging of battery 40 occurs, for example, at the owner's home or a charging station in the city.

[0068] The battery sensor 42 includes, for example, a current sensor, a voltage sensor, and a temperature sensor. The battery sensor 42 detects, for example, the current value, voltage value, and temperature of the battery 40. Based on the detected current value, voltage value, and temperature of the battery 40, the battery sensor 42 calculates the State of Charge (SOC) of the battery 40. The battery sensor 42 outputs the calculated SOC information of the battery 40 to the control unit 18 and the reporting control unit 26.

[0069] Antenna 80 is, for example, disposed on the exterior of vehicle 10. Antenna 80 is directional. Antenna 80 includes, for example, multiple (two or more) antenna elements. An antenna control unit (not shown) is disposed inside vehicle 10. The antenna control unit performs beamforming by adjusting the positional relationship of the multiple antenna elements in antenna 80, and can adjust the directional direction of antenna 80. Antenna 80, by adjusting the positional relationship of the multiple antenna elements through antenna control unit, transmits radio waves directionally when transmitting radio waves. It should be noted that, in this embodiment, the directional direction of antenna 80 can be adjusted, but the antenna 80 disposed in vehicle 10 may also be an antenna whose directional direction is fixed and cannot be adjusted.

[0070] The portable terminal 200 can connect wirelessly to the vehicle 10 via a wireless LAN, but it can also connect wirelessly to the vehicle 10 via a network NW, or in addition to a wireless LAN connection. The portable terminal 200 can connect wirelessly to the wireless base station 100 via the network NW, but it can also connect wirelessly to the wireless base station 100 without the network NW connection.

[0071] Next, refer to Figures 5-9 To explain the actions of vehicle 10. Figures 5-9 These are flowcharts illustrating an example of the processing performed by vehicle 10. Control unit 18 determines whether it is within the access point provision time (step S101). The access point provision time is, for example, the time when vehicle 10 is parked and the owner of vehicle 10 has not kept the operation mode of control unit 18 in the off mode.

[0072] If the control unit 18 determines that the access point is not providing service within the specified time, it sets the operation mode to the off mode (step S103). Afterwards, vehicle 10 terminates... Figure 5 The process is as shown. If the control unit 18 determines that the access point is within the access point provision time, the acquisition unit 14 acquires the communication quality between the wireless base station 100 and the access point function unit 16 (step S105). Next, the control unit 18 determines whether the battery 40 is charging (step S107).

[0073] If the control unit 18 determines that the battery 40 is charging, it sets the operating mode to normal mode (on mode) (step S109). Afterwards, the vehicle 10 stops. Figure 5 The process is as shown. If the control unit 18 determines that the battery 40 is not being charged, it obtains the state of charge (SOC) of the battery 40. The control unit 18 then determines whether the obtained SOC of the battery 40 is above the reference storage capacity (step S111).

[0074] If the control unit 18 determines that the obtained SOC of the battery 40 is above the baseline storage capacity, it sets the operating mode to power saving mode (on mode) (step S113). Afterwards, the vehicle 10 ends... Figure 5 The process is as shown. If the control unit 18 determines that the obtained SOC of the battery 40 is not above the reference charge level (below the reference charge level), it sets the operation mode to the off mode (step S103). Afterwards, the vehicle 10 ends... Figure 5 The processing is shown.

[0075] Next, refer to Figure 6 The following describes the process when vehicle 10 begins functioning as an access point. Control unit 18 determines whether the operating mode is an on mode (normal mode or power-saving mode) (step S201). If control unit 18 determines that the operating mode is not an on mode (but a off mode), vehicle 10 terminates. Figure 6 The processing is shown.

[0076] If the control unit 18 determines that the operation mode is enabled, it determines whether a wireless connection has been established with the portable terminals 200 around the vehicle 10 (step S203). If the control unit 18 determines that a wireless connection has not been established, the vehicle 10 stops. Figure 6 The processing is shown.

[0077] If the control unit 18 determines that a wireless connection has been established, the reporting control unit 26 causes the light 24 to flash (step S205). The reporting unit 20 reports to the user of the portable terminal 200 that a wireless connection has been established by causing the light 24 to flash. Thus, the vehicle 10 ends. Figure 6 The processing is shown.

[0078] When the lamp body 24 is flashed in the vehicle 10, the method can be any. For example, all the components of the lamp body 24 may flash a predetermined number of times, such as 3 times. A portion of the lamp body 24, such as the headlight 53 and taillight 54, may flash a predetermined number of times. When multiple components of the lamp body 24 are flashed, the number of flashes may vary for each component. The flashing components and the number of flashes of the lamp body 24 may also vary depending on the surrounding environment of the vehicle 10. The surrounding environment of the vehicle 10 may be, for example, either day or night. The surrounding environment of the vehicle 10 may also be, for example, the communication quality between the wireless base station 100 and the access point function unit 16. The surrounding environment of the vehicle 10 may also be, for example, the distance between the vehicle 10 and the portable terminal 200. The lamp body 24 may also be either flashing or, in addition to this, constantly illuminated (always illuminated). The reporting unit 20 may also, in addition to illuminating or flashing the lamp body 24, drive the wiper device 22 to drive the wiper W.

[0079] Next, refer to Figure 7To explain the continuation Figure 5 Subsequent processing. The control unit 18 determines whether the operating mode is the on mode (step S301). If the control unit 18 determines that the operating mode is not the on mode (but the off mode), the vehicle 10 stops. Figure 7 The processing is shown.

[0080] If the control unit 18 determines that the operating mode is the on mode, the reporting control unit 26 determines whether the illuminance around the vehicle measured by the illuminance measuring unit 30 is less than the specified illuminance (step S303). The specified illuminance can be any illuminance, such as the illuminance at the time of day or non-nighttime.

[0081] If the illuminance around the vehicle is determined to be less than the specified illuminance, the report control unit 26 shall respond. Figure 9 The interior light 55 is caused to flash as shown (step S305). The reporting control unit 26 then reduces the light intensity of the interior light 55 compared to normal, causing the interior light 55 to flash. Afterwards, the vehicle 10 stops. Figure 7 The processing is shown.

[0082] If it is determined that the illuminance around the vehicle is not less than the specified illuminance (but is greater than the specified illuminance), the reporting control unit 26 causes the interior light 55, which is the lamp body 24 inside the vehicle, to flash (step S307). At this time, the reporting control unit 26 causes the interior light 55 to flash by setting the light intensity of the interior light 55 to the normal light intensity.

[0083] Next, the control unit 18 determines whether the operating mode is the normal mode (step S309). If the control unit 18 determines that the operating mode is the normal mode, the reporting control unit 26 outputs an instruction to the drive control unit of the wiper assembly 22 to drive the wiper W. The wiper W can be driven in normal operation at a normal speed and in intermittent operation at a slower speed when wiping raindrops off the windshield. When the wiper assembly 22 drives the wiper W based on the instruction output by the reporting control unit 26, it drives the wiper W in extremely intermittent operation at a slower speed than the intermittent operation.

[0084] Next, the report control unit 26 determines the illumination mode of the exterior lights 24 in normal mode (step S313). The exterior lights 24 include turn signals 51, position lights 52, headlights 53, and taillights 54 disposed on the outside of the vehicle 10. The process of determining the illumination mode of the exterior lights 24 in normal mode will be explained later. It should be noted that when the exterior lights 24 are illuminated, the interior lights 55, which serve as interior lights 24, can also be illuminated. Afterward, the report control unit 26 illuminates the exterior lights 24 (step S315), and the vehicle 10 stops. Figure 7 The processing is shown.

[0085] If, in step S309, the control unit 18 determines that the operating mode is normal mode, it reports to the control unit 26 to determine the illumination method of the exterior lights 24 in power-saving mode (step S317). The process of determining the illumination method of the exterior lights 24 in power-saving mode will be explained later. Afterwards, the control unit 26 is reported to illuminate the exterior lights 24 (step S315), and the vehicle 10 ends. Figure 7 The processing is shown.

[0086] Next, refer to Figure 8 The process for determining the illumination mode of the exterior lights 24 in normal mode will be explained. The report control unit 26 temporarily sets the light intensity of the exterior lights 24 to the normal light intensity (step S401). At this time, the report control unit 26 temporarily sets all of the exterior lights 24 that are to be illuminated to be the turn signals 51, position lights 52, headlights 53, and taillights 54. The report control unit 26 temporarily sets the illumination mode to always illuminate. Always illuminated means that each element of the light body 24 is illuminated at the light intensity required for its original intended use.

[0087] Next, the report control unit 26 determines whether the communication quality output by the acquisition unit 14 is at or above the specified quality (step S403). The specified quality is set for each type of quality. For example, the specified quality for the case where the communication quality is "whether or not there is a communication restriction" is set to "with communication restriction". The specified quality can also be set arbitrarily.

[0088] If the communication quality is determined to be at or above the specified quality, the reporting control unit 26 changes the settings to increase the light intensity of the illuminated lamp 24 (step S405). If the communication quality is determined to be below the specified quality, the reporting control unit 26 proceeds directly to step S407. Thus, when the communication quality obtained by the acquisition unit 14 is at or above the specified quality, the reporting control unit 26 adjusts the light intensity emitted by the lamp 24 to differ from the case where the communication quality obtained by the acquisition unit 14 is below the specified quality.

[0089] In this embodiment, when the communication quality obtained by the acquisition unit 14 is at or above a specified quality, the report control unit 26 increases the light intensity emitted by the lamp body 24 compared to when the communication quality obtained by the acquisition unit 14 is below the specified quality. It should be noted that, alternatively, when the communication quality obtained by the acquisition unit 14 is at or above the specified quality, the report control unit 26 may decrease the light intensity emitted by the lamp body 24 compared to when the communication quality obtained by the acquisition unit 14 is below the specified quality. For example, when the communication quality is at or above the specified quality, the turn indicator 51, position lights 52, and headlights 53 may be illuminated; when the communication quality is below the specified quality, only the turn indicator 51 may be illuminated.

[0090] Next, the report control unit 26 determines whether the pointing direction of the antenna 80 is set (step S407). If it is determined that the pointing direction of the antenna 80 is set, the report control unit 26 changes the setting to increase the light intensity of the lamp 24 located in the pointing direction of the antenna 80 (step S409). For the lamps 24 outside the vehicle body other than those located in the pointing direction of the antenna 80, the light intensity setting is maintained. Alternatively, the light intensity setting of the lamps 24 outside the vehicle body other than those located in the pointing direction of the antenna 80 may be changed to decrease or set to 0. In this way, the report control unit 26 makes the light intensity emitted by the lamps 24 mounted on the first side pointed to by the antenna 80 in the vehicle body of the vehicle 10 greater than the light intensity emitted by the lamps 24 mounted on other parts.

[0091] Next, the report control unit 26 determines the temporarily set light intensity as the light intensity of the lamp body 24 outside the vehicle, or, if a change has been made to the temporarily set light intensity, determines the changed light intensity as the light intensity of the lamp body 24 outside the vehicle (step S411). The report control unit 26 also determines the temporarily set elements of the lamp body 24 outside the vehicle as the elements of the illuminated lamp body 24, or, if a change has been made to the temporarily set elements of the lamp body 24 outside the vehicle, determines the changed elements of the lamp body 24 outside the vehicle as the elements of the illuminated lamp body 24. Afterwards, the vehicle 10 ends. Figure 8 The processing is shown.

[0092] Next, refer to Figure 9 The process for determining the illumination mode of the exterior lights 24 in power-saving mode is explained below. The report control unit 26 temporarily sets the exterior lights 24 to a light intensity reduced from the light intensity when they are always on (step S501). At this time, the report control unit 26 temporarily sets all of the illuminated exterior lights to be the turn signals 51, position lights 52, headlights 53, and taillights 54.

[0093] Next, the report control unit 26 determines whether the SOC of the battery 40 is above the specified capacity (step S503). If the SOC of the battery 40 is above the specified capacity, the report control unit 26 changes the settings to increase the light intensity of the illuminated lamp body 24 (step S505). If the SOC of the battery 40 is below the specified capacity, the report control unit 26 proceeds directly to step S507. In this way, when the SOC of the battery 40 is above the specified capacity, the report control unit 26 increases the light intensity emitted by the lamp body 24 compared to when the SOC of the battery 40 is below the specified capacity.

[0094] Next, the report control unit 26 determines the temporarily set light intensity as the light intensity of the lamp body 24 outside the vehicle, or, if a change is applied from the temporarily set light intensity, determines the changed light intensity as the light intensity of the lamp body 24 outside the vehicle (step S507). The report control unit 26 also determines the temporarily set elements of the lamp body 24 outside the vehicle as the elements of the illuminated lamp body 24, or, if a change is applied from the temporarily set elements of the lamp body 24 outside the vehicle, determines the changed elements of the lamp body 24 outside the vehicle as the elements of the illuminated lamp body 24. Afterwards, the vehicle 10 ends. Figure 9 The processing is shown.

[0095] In vehicle 10, for example, there may be a situation where, when reporting to the surroundings that vehicle 10 is functioning as an access point, it flashes in a manner different from the original lighting or flashing pattern corresponding to the intended use of each element of lamp body 24. For example, the interior light 55 would always be on for its original purpose, but when reporting to the surroundings that vehicle 10 is functioning as an access point, it flashes in a manner different from the original lighting or flashing pattern corresponding to the intended use of each element of lamp body 24. Figure 10 As shown, the interior lights 55 flash. Additionally, the turn signal 51 flashes for its normal purpose, but also when the vehicle 10 is functioning as an access point to report to the surroundings, such as... Figure 10 As shown, the turn signal indicator 51 is always illuminated.

[0096] In vehicle 10, when the pointing direction of antenna 80 is set, the light intensity of lamp 24 located in the pointing direction increases. For example, Figure 11 As shown, when the antenna 80 is pointed to the right side of the vehicle 10, the lights 24 located on the right side of the vehicle 10, specifically the right turn indicator 51R, right position light 52R, right headlight 53R, and right taillight 54R, are illuminated. The light intensity of the lights 24 located on the left side of the vehicle 10, specifically the left turn indicator 51L, left position light 52L, left headlight 53L, and left taillight 54L, is less than that of the lights 24 located on the right side of the vehicle 10 when they are off or on.

[0097] Alternatively, for example, when the antenna 80 is pointing forward, the turn signal 51 and headlight 53 located on the front side of the vehicle 10 can be illuminated. Alternatively, when the antenna 80 is pointing rearward, the turn signal 51 and taillight 54 located on the rear side can be illuminated.

[0098] Next, an example of a method of utilization in which a user uses a vehicle 10 (hereinafter referred to as "AP vehicle 10") that functions as an access point will be described.

[0099] (The first mode of use for vehicle 10)

[0100] First, let's explain the primary method of utilization. For example, such as... Figure 12 As shown, when the owner of vehicle 10 stops the vehicle and begins charging battery 40 or when the battery 40's SOC is above the required charge level, the access point provision condition is met (step S601).

[0101] When the access point provision conditions are met, vehicle 10 sets itself as an access point to function as an access point and becomes AP vehicle 10, allowing users to utilize the access point function of AP vehicle 10 (step S603). When the battery 40 of AP vehicle 10 is charging, control unit 18 sets the operating mode to normal mode. When the battery 40 of AP vehicle 10 is not charging but the SOC of battery 40 is above the baseline charge level, control unit 18 sets the operating mode to power saving mode.

[0102] Next, the AP vehicle 10 reports to the surrounding area that it is functioning as an access point by activating the wipers W or by illuminating or flashing the lights 24 (step S605). The manner in which the lights 24 are illuminated or flashed varies depending on factors such as the ambient light around the AP vehicle 10, the SOC of the battery 40, the communication quality between the wireless base station 100 and the AP vehicle 10, and the directionality of the antenna 80.

[0103] Upon seeing the report indicating that the AP vehicle 10 is functioning as an access point, the user U recognizes that the vehicle is functioning as an access point (step S607). Next, the user U moves to a location where a wireless connection can be established between their portable terminal 200 and the AP vehicle 10 (step S609), and a wireless connection is established between the portable terminal 200 and the AP vehicle 10. When the wireless connection is established, the reporting unit 20 of the AP vehicle 10 reports this to the user of the portable terminal 200 by flashing the light 24 (step S611).

[0104] Subsequently, when the user starts driving the AP vehicle 10, or when the battery 40 finishes charging, the access point provision conditions are not met (step S613). When the access point provision conditions are not met, the control unit 18 of the AP vehicle 10 sets the operation mode to the off mode, causing the access point function to end and become unusable (step S615).

[0105] Since the access point function becomes unusable, the wireless connection between the user U's portable terminal 200 and the AP vehicle 10 is cut off (step S617). Afterwards, the reporting unit 20 of the AP vehicle 10 turns off the lit or flashing elements of the lamp body 24 to report that the access point function has ended and cannot be used (step S619).

[0106] In the first usage method, for example, consider the following situation: The owner parks vehicle 10 in the store's parking lot, charges vehicle 10, and uses vehicle 10 as an access point. In this case, for example, while the owner is parking vehicle 10 in the parking lot and shopping in the store, vehicle 10 functions as an access point. At this time, vehicle 10 reports to the surrounding area via reporting unit 20 that it is functioning as an access point. Users U of portable terminals 200 passing by the parking lot receive the report from reporting unit 20 and utilize vehicle 10 as an access point. Afterwards, when the owner finishes shopping in the store and moves vehicle 10 from the parking lot, the access point function ends.

[0107] (Second utilization method of vehicle 10)

[0108] Next, a second method of utilizing vehicle 10 will be described. In this second method, vehicle 10 transmits the operating mode from control unit 18 to wireless base station 100, and wireless base station 100 stores the operating mode of vehicle 10. User U can then query the location of AP vehicle 10.

[0109] The wireless base station 100 sends the location information of the nearby AP vehicle 10 to the portable terminal 200 based on the query from the portable terminal 200. Upon receiving the location information of the AP vehicle 10, the user U of the portable terminal 200 identifies the location of the AP vehicle 10 and moves to the vicinity of the AP vehicle 10 to utilize the access point function of the AP vehicle 10.

[0110] For example, such as Figure 13As shown, when the owner of vehicle 10 stops the vehicle and begins charging battery 40 or when the battery 40's SOC is above the required charge level, the access point provision condition is met (step S701). When the access point provision condition is met, vehicle 10 sets itself as an access point and functions as an access point to become an AP vehicle, allowing users to utilize the access point function of AP vehicle 10 (step S703).

[0111] Next, the AP vehicle 10 reports to its surroundings that it is functioning as an access point by activating the wipers W or by illuminating or flashing the lights 24 (step S705). This usage method is consistent with the first usage method. In the second usage method, the AP vehicle 10 reports based on the lights 24 and sends function execution information as an access point to the wireless base station 100 (step S705).

[0112] Upon receiving the function execution information, the wireless base station 100 sets up and registers the information of the AP vehicle 10 (step S707). Next, when the user U is searching for the AP vehicle 10, it queries the wireless base station 100 for the location of the AP vehicle 10. Thus, the user U retrieves and views the location of the AP vehicle 10 (step S709).

[0113] User U, having retrieved and viewed the location of AP vehicle 10, identifies the location of AP vehicle 10 (step S711). Next, user U moves to a location where a wireless connection can be established between user U's portable terminal 200 and AP vehicle 10 (step S713). For example, such as... Figure 14 As shown, there may be a situation where, from the user U's perspective, there is an AP vehicle 10 behind a building BL that acts as an obstacle. In this case, even if the AP vehicle 10 illuminates its light 24 to report that it is functioning as an access point, the user U cannot visually identify the light 24 and therefore cannot recognize the AP vehicle 10. Thus, the user U uses a portable terminal to search for and view the location of the AP vehicle 10 to identify its position and moves to that location, thereby establishing a wireless connection between the portable terminal 200 and the AP vehicle 10. When the wireless connection is established, the AP vehicle 10's reporting unit 20 reports this to the user of the portable terminal 200 by flashing its light 24.

[0114] Subsequently, when the user starts driving the AP vehicle 10 or the battery 40 finishes charging, the access point provision condition is not met (step S715). When the access point provision condition is not met, the control unit 18 of the vehicle 10 sets the operation mode to the off mode, thus ending the access point function and setting it to be unusable (step S717). The vehicle 10 ends the access point function and sets it to be unusable, and sends a function termination information to the wireless base station 100, indicating the termination of the access point function (step S717).

[0115] Upon receiving the function termination information, the wireless base station 100 deregisters the information of the AP vehicle 10 (step S719). Thereafter, the access point function of the vehicle 10 becomes unusable, and the wireless connection between the user U's portable terminal 200 and the vehicle 10 is severed (step S721). Subsequently, the vehicle 10's reporting unit 20 extinguishes the illuminated or flashing elements of the lamp body 24 and reports that the access point function has terminated and cannot be used (step S723).

[0116] According to the implementation described above, the reporting unit 20 reports that the vehicle 10 is functioning as an access point. Therefore, the user of the portable terminal 200 can easily recognize that the vehicle 10 itself has access point functionality.

[0117] Furthermore, the reporting unit 20 reports that the vehicle 10 is functioning as an access point by illuminating or flashing the lamp body 24. Therefore, the user can visually perceive that the vehicle 10 is functioning as an access point. Additionally, the lamp body 24 is existing equipment in the vehicle 10, such as the turn signal 51, position lights 52, headlights 53, taillights 54, and interior lights 55. Therefore, existing equipment can be effectively utilized. This contributes to cost reduction during the manufacture of the vehicle 10.

[0118] Furthermore, the reporting unit 20 reports that the vehicle 10 is functioning as an access point by either keeping the turn indicator 51 constantly illuminated or flashing the interior lights 55. Therefore, the reporting unit 20 reports in a manner different from the original intended use of the turn indicator 51 and the interior lights 55. This avoids confusion with existing equipment during normal use and allows for identification that the vehicle 10 has access point functionality. For example, the turn indicator 51 flashes when functioning as a hazard warning light and remains constantly illuminated when reporting access point functionality, making the two easily distinguishable. Additionally, by illuminating the interior lights 55, which do not flash during normal use, the system avoids misinterpretation as the owner forgetting to turn off the lights. Furthermore, by flashing the headlights 53, position lights 52, and taillights 54, the lamp body 24 can be illuminated in a manner different from normal use.

[0119] Furthermore, when the illuminance measured by the illuminance measuring unit 30 is less than the specified illuminance, the reporting unit 20 reduces the amount of light emitted by the lamp body 24 compared to when the illuminance measured by the illuminance measuring unit 30 is above the specified illuminance. Therefore, by reducing the amount of light emitted by the lamp body 24 at night compared to daytime, the user U of the portable terminal 200 can recognize that the device has access point functionality by adapting to the surrounding environment. Additionally, by reducing the amount of light emitted by the lamp body 24 at night compared to daytime, it is possible to prevent the lamp body 24 from being too bright at night and causing disturbance to the surroundings.

[0120] Furthermore, the reporting unit 20 ensures that the light emitted by the lamp 24 mounted on the first side pointed to by the antenna 80 in the vehicle body is greater than the light emitted by the lamp 24 mounted on a location other than the first side. Therefore, the pointing direction of the antenna 80 can be communicated to the user of the portable terminal 200 in an easily understandable manner.

[0121] Furthermore, when the battery 40's charge level is above a specified level, the reporting unit 20 increases the light intensity emitted by the lamp body 24 compared to when the battery 40's charge level is below the specified level. Moreover, since the battery 40 can be charged externally, the control unit 18 operates in normal mode during battery 40 charging and in power-saving mode when not charging. Thus, when the battery 40 is charging, the vehicle 10 increases the light intensity emitted by the lamp body 24 compared to when it is not charging. Therefore, the access point function can be provided with minimal impact on the vehicle's inherent performance, and insufficient battery charge can be suppressed.

[0122] Furthermore, when the communication quality obtained by the acquisition unit 14 is at or above the specified quality, the reporting unit 20 causes the light emitted by the lamp body 24 to differ from the case where the communication quality obtained by the acquisition unit 14 is below the specified quality. Therefore, the user can be informed of the communication quality, thus providing a criterion for determining whether to establish a wireless connection.

[0123] Furthermore, once a wireless connection has been established between the access point function unit 16 and the portable terminal 200, the reporting unit 20 reports this established wireless connection to the vicinity of the vehicle 10. Therefore, it allows users to easily identify which vehicle 10 has established a wireless connection.

[0124] It should be noted that in the above embodiment, the reporting unit 20 reports that the vehicle 10 is functioning as an access point by driving the wiper W or the various elements of the light body 24 to light up or flash via the wiper device 22. However, it can also report in other ways. For example, it can also report that the vehicle 10 is functioning as an access point by sound output from an output unit that outputs sound (e.g., music) from a speaker, vehicle horn, or other external device facing the vehicle.

[0125] Alternatively, the vehicle 10 can display a well-known message such as "Wireless Internet access point provided" on its setup screen, indicating that it is functioning as an access point. Furthermore, when the vehicle 10 is functioning as an access point, the message "Wireless Internet access point provided" can be displayed on the monitor or instrument panel of the navigation device inside the vehicle 10.

[0126] Furthermore, the elements of the lamp body 24 may include elements other than the turn signal 51, position lights 52, headlights 53, taillights 54, and interior lights 55. For example, the elements of the lamp body 24 may also include a high-mounted brake light, rear fog light, license plate light, room lamp, pilot lamp, etc. Additionally, the way the lamp body 24 is illuminated or flashed can be in any manner; it can be part of or the entire lamp body 24. Alternatively, among the lamp bodies 24 arranged along one direction, the lamp body 24 may be illuminated or flashed in a way that makes it appear as if light is flowing along that direction.

[0127] Alternatively, the system can activate movable parts such as power windows and power mirrors to report that vehicle 10 is functioning as an access point. Furthermore, if vehicle 10 is equipped with features such as turn signals (e.g., in special vehicles), the system can illuminate or flash the turn signals to report that vehicle 10 is functioning as an access point. Additionally, the system can simultaneously report that vehicle 10 is functioning as an access point using light, sound, or any combination of movable parts.

[0128] Furthermore, when reducing the light intensity compared to a prescribed method, this can be done by reducing the intensity by a predetermined amount, by reducing the intensity in stages, or by reducing the intensity continuously. Additionally, when reducing the light intensity compared to a prescribed method, the intensity of light emitted by each element of the lamp body can be reduced individually, or the number (types) of each element of the luminous lamp body can be reduced. For example, the reporting unit 20 can also illuminate the headlight 53 when the control unit 18 sets the operating mode to normal mode, and illuminate the position light 52 when the control unit 18 sets the power-saving mode to normal mode.

[0129] The present invention has been described above using embodiments, but the technical scope of the present invention is not limited to the scope described in the above embodiments. Those skilled in the art will readily recognize that various modifications or improvements can be made to the above embodiments. As is evident from the description of the technical solutions, forms with such modifications or improvements can also be included within the technical scope of the present invention.

[0130] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0131] 10… vehicles

[0132] 12…Ministry of Communications

[0133] 14… Acquisition Department

[0134] 16…Access Point Functional Department

[0135] 18…Control Department

[0136] 20…Reporting Department

[0137] 22…wiper assembly

[0138] 24…lamp body

[0139] 26…Report Control Department

[0140] 30…Illuminance Measurement Section

[0141] 40… batteries

[0142] 42…Battery sensor

[0143] 51…Directional indicator lights

[0144] 52…position lights

[0145] 53…Headlight

[0146] 54… Taillights

[0147] 55… Interior lights

[0148] 80… antenna

[0149] 100… wireless base station

[0150] 200… Portable terminal

[0151] BL…buildings

[0152] NW…Network

[0153] U…user

[0154] W... windshield wipers.

Claims

1. A vehicle capable of movement, wherein, The vehicle has the following features: An access point functional unit, having an antenna, wirelessly communicates with terminal devices located around the vehicle, thereby functioning as an access point; and The reporting department then notifies those in the vicinity that the vehicle is functioning as an access point. The reporting unit includes a lamp body that illuminates when the vehicle functions as an access point.

2. The vehicle according to claim 1, wherein, The lamp body includes at least one of the following: turn indicator lights, position lights, headlights, taillights, and interior lights.

3. The vehicle according to claim 2, wherein, The reporting unit includes a turn indicator light, which is kept illuminated while the vehicle functions as an access point.

4. The vehicle according to claim 2, wherein, The reporting unit includes interior lights that flash when the vehicle is functioning as an access point.

5. The vehicle according to claim 1, wherein, It also includes an illuminance measuring unit for measuring the illuminance around the vehicle body. When the illuminance measured by the illuminance measuring unit is less than the specified illuminance, the reporting unit reduces the amount of light emitted by the lamp body compared to when the illuminance measured by the illuminance measuring unit is greater than or equal to the specified illuminance.

6. The vehicle according to claim 1, wherein, The antenna is directional. The lamp body is disposed in multiple parts of the vehicle body. The reporting unit causes the light emitted by a lamp mounted on a first side pointed to by the antenna in the vehicle body to be greater than the light emitted by a lamp mounted on a location other than the first side.

7. The vehicle according to claim 1, wherein, It also has a rechargeable battery. When the battery's charge level is above a specified charge level, the reporting unit increases the amount of light emitted by the lamp body compared to when the battery's charge level is below a specified charge level.

8. The vehicle according to claim 1, wherein, It also has a rechargeable battery that can be charged externally. When the battery is being externally charged, the reporting unit increases the amount of light emitted by the lamp body compared to when the battery is not being externally charged.

9. The vehicle according to claim 1, wherein, It also includes a unit for acquiring information about the communication quality between the wireless base station and the access point functional unit. When the communication quality obtained by the acquisition unit is above a specified quality, the reporting unit causes the light emitted by the lamp body to differ from the light emitted when the communication quality obtained by the acquisition unit is below the specified quality.

10. A vehicle capable of movement, wherein, The vehicle has the following features: An access point functional unit, having an antenna, wirelessly communicates with terminal devices located around the vehicle, thereby functioning as an access point; and The reporting department then notifies those in the vicinity that the vehicle is functioning as an access point. When a wireless connection has been established between the access point function unit and the terminal device, the reporting unit reports this intention to the surrounding area of ​​the vehicle.

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