Control device

Abstract

The present invention provides a control device capable of improving usability when using a mobile body. The control device is capable of communicating with a first vehicle (M1) and a second vehicle (M2) different from the first vehicle (M1). The control device comprises: a management unit (2) for managing permission data obtained by a user when using the first vehicle (M1) and for enabling functions of the first vehicle (M1) by associating them with identification information of the user; and a control unit (3) for controlling the enabling of functions of the second vehicle (M2) based on the permission data when the user uses the second vehicle (M2).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a control device. Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, there is known a license management system that, when a user obtains license data for enabling a function of a mobile object such as a vehicle, associates and manages the license data with the mobile object and enables the function in the mobile object.

[0003] Prior art literature

[0004] Patent Literature

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2007-170898 Summary of the Invention

[0006] Problems to be solved by the invention

[0007] However, even if a user obtains permission data for a certain mobile object, the user needs to obtain the permission data again when using another mobile object, resulting in a problem of low usability.

[0008] Patent Document 1 describes a structure in which, in a service provision system that provides services using a navigation system, various sensors, etc., scenarios and services are associated for each user utilizing a mobile object, and the service to be provided is read and provided based on the identified user and scenario.

[0009] However, Patent Document 1 does not clearly describe how permission data is handled when a user utilizes another mobile object. Therefore, there is room for improvement in usability when utilizing a mobile object.

[0010] An object of the present invention is to provide a control device capable of improving usability when utilizing a mobile object.

[0011] Solutions to Problems

[0012] The present invention is

[0013] A control device capable of communicating with a first moving object and a second moving object different from the first moving object, the control device comprising:

[0014] a management unit that manages permission data for enabling a function of the first mobile object, which is acquired by a user when using the first mobile object, by associating it with identification information of the user; and

[0015] The control unit performs control to enable a function of the second mobile object based on the permission data when the user uses the second mobile object.

[0016] Effects of the Invention

[0017] According to the control device of the present invention, it is possible to improve usability when utilizing a mobile object. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram showing an example of a control system including the control device according to the present embodiment.

[0019] Figure 2 This is a block diagram showing an example of hardware of the control device.

[0020] Figure 3 This is a diagram showing an example of a management table for managing user permission data.

[0021] Figure 4 This is a diagram showing an example of a vehicle system mounted on a vehicle.

[0022] Figure 5 This is a flowchart showing an example of operations when a user gets on a first vehicle and obtains permission.

[0023] Figure 6 This is a flowchart showing an example of an operation when a user obtains permission in a first vehicle and then gets on a second vehicle.

[0024] Description of reference numerals:

[0025] 1. Control device

[0026] 2. Management Department

[0027] 3. Control Department

[0028] M1, first vehicle (first moving body)

[0029] M2: Second vehicle (second moving object). DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0030] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the control device of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that in the following description of the embodiment, the mobile object in the present invention is an example of a vehicle M such as an automobile.

[0031] Will refer to Figure 1 The control system 300 including the control device of this embodiment will be described. Figure 1 As shown, the control system 300 includes a control device 1 and a plurality of vehicles M capable of communicating with the control device 1. In this example, a first vehicle M1 and a second vehicle M2 are shown as two vehicles M, but the number of vehicles M is not limited to two and may be a plurality.

[0032] The control device 1 includes a management unit 2 and a control unit 3. The control device 1 is, for example, a server installed in a facility such as a management center. The management unit 2 manages permission data related to vehicle permission obtained by a user when using the first vehicle M1 or the second vehicle M2, by associating the data with the user (user ID).

[0033] The control unit 3 controls the activation / deactivation (on / off) of functions of the first and second vehicles M1, M2 when a user utilizes the first and second vehicles M1, M2. Specifically, the control unit 3 transmits a function activation signal to activate a function and a function deactivation signal to deactivate a function to the first and second vehicles M1, M2, thereby controlling the activation / deactivation of functions in the first and second vehicles M1, M2.

[0034] The first vehicle M1 and the second vehicle M2 are vehicles capable of so-called autonomous or assisted driving. Furthermore, the first vehicle M1 and the second vehicle M2 are vehicles with limited users, such as those owned by individuals, or vehicles with unlimited users, such as those owned by a legal entity. Individuals who can use a vehicle include, for example, the vehicle owner, their family, relatives, and friends. Legal entity-owned vehicles include rental vehicles, shared cars, and other vehicles that can be used by multiple, unspecified users under a specific contract.

[0035] Next, we will refer to Figure 2 The hardware structure of the control device 1 is described. Figure 2 As shown, the control device 1 includes a processor 11, a memory 12, and a communication interface 13. The processor 11, the memory 12, and the communication interface 13 are connected via a bus 15, for example.

[0036] Processor 11 is a circuit that performs signal processing, and is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) responsible for overall control of control device 1. Processor 11 may also be implemented using other digital circuits, such as an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) or a DSP (Digital Signal Processor). Furthermore, processor 11 may be implemented by combining multiple digital circuits.

[0037] The memory 12 includes, for example, a main memory and an auxiliary memory. The main memory is, for example, a RAM (Random Access Memory). The main memory is used as a working area for the processor 11. The auxiliary memory is, for example, a non-volatile memory such as a magnetic disk or a flash memory. Various programs that enable the control device 1 to operate are stored in the auxiliary memory. The programs stored in the auxiliary memory are loaded into the main memory and executed by the processor 11. In addition, the auxiliary memory may also include a removable memory that can be removed from the control device 1. The removable memory is a memory card such as a USB (Universal Serial Bus) flash drive, an SD (Secure Digital) memory card, an external hard disk drive, and the like.

[0038] The communication interface 13 is a communication interface for communicating with the outside of the control device 1 (for example, the first vehicle M1 and the second vehicle M2). For example, the communication interface 13 communicates with the base station 5 near the first vehicle M1 (see Figure 4 ) communicates with the first vehicle M1, and communicates with the second vehicle M2 via a base station 5 near the second vehicle M2. The base station 5 relays communications between the control device 1 and the first vehicle M1 by wirelessly communicating with the first vehicle M1, and relays communications between the control device 1 and the second vehicle M2 by wirelessly communicating with the second vehicle M2. The communication interface 13 is controlled by the processor 11.

[0039] Figure 1 The management unit 2 shown can be realized by, for example, a processor 11 and a memory 12 . Figure 1 The control unit 3 shown can be implemented, for example, by the processor 11 controlling the communication interface 13 .

[0040] Next, we will refer to Figure 3 The permission data managed by the management unit 2 of the control device 1 will be described. Figure 3 As shown, the permission data is stored in the management table 21 provided in the management unit 2.

[0041] The permission data is data on functions that can be used by users who use the first vehicle M1 or the second vehicle M2 by arbitrarily selecting from the functions possessed by the first vehicle M1 or the second vehicle M2. When using the first vehicle M1 or the second vehicle M2, the user obtains permission to make the selected function effective (usable), for example, by paying a fee. When using a vehicle means when the vehicle is under the management of the user. Specifically, when the vehicle is personally owned, for example, when the user purchases the vehicle from the manufacturer, or when the user drives the vehicle for the first time. In addition, when the vehicle is owned by a legal person, for example, when the user signs a vehicle lease contract, or when the user shares the vehicle.

[0042] Permission data is stored in association with identification information assigned to the user (e.g., user ID) in management table 21. In this example, permission data indicating that vehicle functions A, B, and C are enabled by obtaining permission is stored in association with user ID "#1" in management table 21. Similarly, permission data indicating that function A is enabled is stored in association with user ID "#2" in management table 21. Similarly, permission data indicating that functions C and D are enabled is stored in association with user ID "#3" in management table 21.

[0043] The control unit 3 of the control device 1 controls the switching between enabling and disabling of functions of the first vehicle M1 and the second vehicle M2 based on the information stored in the management table 21. For example, when a user boards the first vehicle M1 and obtains permission to enable a predetermined function among the functions of the first vehicle M1, the control unit 3 controls the activation of the corresponding function in the second vehicle M2 based on the permission obtained in the first vehicle M1 when the user boards the second vehicle M2.

[0044] Next, refer to Figure 4 The vehicle system 30 mounted on the vehicles M (the first vehicle M1 and the second vehicle M2) will be described. Figure 4 As shown, vehicle system 30 includes a camera 31, a radar device 32, a detector 33, vehicle sensors 34, input / output devices 36, a communication device 38, a navigation device 40, a driving control element 50, an automatic driving control device 100, a driving force output device 200, a braking device 210, and a steering device 220. These devices are interconnected via a wired or wireless communication network so that they can communicate with each other. For example, the communication network connecting these devices is a CAN (Controller Area Network).

[0045] The camera 31 is a digital camera that captures images of the surroundings of the vehicle M (e.g., in front of the vehicle M) and outputs image data obtained by the capture to the automatic driving control device 100. The radar device 32 is, for example, a radar device that utilizes radio waves in the millimeter wave band and detects the positions of objects located around the vehicle M (e.g., in front of, behind, and to the sides of the vehicle M) and outputs the detection results to the automatic driving control device 100. The detector 33 is, for example, a LIDAR (Laser Imaging Detection and Ranging) that uses a predetermined laser to measure the distance to objects (targets) located around the vehicle M (e.g., in front of, behind, and to the sides of the vehicle M) and outputs the measurement results to the automatic driving control device 100.

[0046] The vehicle sensors 34 include, for example, a vehicle speed sensor for detecting the speed of the vehicle M, an acceleration sensor for detecting the acceleration of the vehicle M, an angular velocity sensor for detecting the angular velocity of the vehicle M about a vertical axis, and an azimuth sensor for detecting the orientation of the vehicle M. Furthermore, the vehicle sensors 34 include a radio wave intensity sensor for detecting the intensity of the radio waves used by the communication device 38 for communication (i.e., the communication environment). Furthermore, the vehicle sensors 34 include a facial recognition device for recognizing the driver's face, a fingerprint sensor for detecting the driver's fingerprint, and a voiceprint sensor for detecting the driver's voiceprint. The vehicle sensors 34 output the detection results of each sensor to the automatic driving control device 100.

[0047] The input / output device 36 includes an output device for outputting various information to a user of the vehicle M (hereinafter also referred to as a user) and an input device for receiving various input operations from the user. An output device of the input / output device 36 is, for example, a display that displays processing results from the automatic driving control device 100. Alternatively, the output device may be a speaker, a buzzer, an indicator light, or the like.

[0048] Furthermore, the input devices of the input / output device 36 are, for example, touch panels or operation buttons (keys, switches, etc.) that output operation signals corresponding to input operations received from the user to the automatic driving control device 100. Input to the input devices of the input / output device 36 includes, for example, identification information for identifying the user and functional information of the vehicle M that the user wishes to obtain. The identification information input from the input devices includes, for example, the user's name, address, credit card number, and telephone number. The functional information of the vehicle M input from the input devices includes functional information related to automatic driving and assisted driving. For example, functional information related to the safety of the vehicle M and functional information related to comfort, etc., may also be included.

[0049] The communication device 38 is connected to the base station 5 by wireless and can communicate with the control device 1 via the base station 5. The communication device 38 transmits the permission information of the vehicle M obtained by the user and the identification information that can identify the user to the control device 1 via the base station 5. This information is input from the input device of the input / output device 36. The communication device 38 can also be composed of, for example, a telematics control unit (TCU) capable of two-way communication. In addition, the communication device 38 can also utilize, for example, a cellular network, a Wi-Fi (registered trademark) network, Bluetooth (registered trademark), DSRC (Dedicated Short Range Communication), etc.

[0050] The navigation device 40 includes a GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) receiver 41 and an input / output device 42. Furthermore, the navigation device 40 includes a storage device (not shown) such as a hard disk drive (hereinafter also referred to as an HDD) or a flash memory, which stores first map information 43. For example, the first map information 43 represents the shape of a road using links and nodes connected by the links. Furthermore, the first map information 43 may also include information indicating the curvature of the road and POIs (Points of Interest).

[0051] The GNSS receiver 41 determines the latitude and longitude of the location of the vehicle M as the position of the vehicle M based on signals received from GNSS satellites. Alternatively, the navigation device 40 may determine or correct the position of the vehicle M using an INS (Inertial Navigation System) using outputs from the vehicle sensors 34 .

[0052] The input / output devices 42 include output devices that output various information to the user and input devices that receive various input operations from the user. Examples of the output devices of the input / output devices 42 include a display that displays information based on the processing results of the navigation device 40 (e.g., a route on a map, as described later). Furthermore, examples of the input devices of the input / output devices 42 include a touch panel or operation buttons (keys, switches, etc.) that output operation signals corresponding to input operations received from the user to the navigation device 40. The input / output devices 42 may also be shared with the input / output devices 36.

[0053] The navigation device 40 determines a route (hereinafter also referred to as a mapped route) from the position of the vehicle M determined by the GNSS receiver 41 to the destination input by the user, for example, by referring to the first map information 43. A detailed description of this is omitted. The navigation device 40 guides the user on the determined mapped route via the input / output device 42. Furthermore, the navigation device 40 is configured to output information indicating the determined position of the vehicle M and the determined mapped route to the automatic driving control device 100.

[0054] The driving operating elements 50 include various operating elements such as an accelerator pedal, a brake pedal, a shift lever, a steering wheel, a special-shaped steering wheel, and a joystick. Each of the driving operating elements 50 is provided with sensors that detect the amount of operation on the driving operating elements 50 or the presence or absence of operation. The detection results of the sensors of the driving operating elements 50 are output to some or all of the automatic driving control device 100, the driving force output device 200, the braking device 210, and the steering device 220.

[0055] The driving force output device 200 outputs driving force (torque) to the drive wheels for driving the vehicle M. The driving force output device 200 includes, for example, an electric motor and an electronic control unit (ECU) that controls the electric motor. The electric motor ECU controls the electric motor based on detection results from sensors of the driving operating element 50 (e.g., the accelerator pedal) and control information from the automatic driving control device 100. Furthermore, if the vehicle M includes an internal combustion engine and a transmission as a drive source, the driving force output device 200 may also include the internal combustion engine, the transmission, and the ECU that controls them.

[0056] Braking system 210 includes, for example, a brake caliper, a hydraulic cylinder that transmits hydraulic pressure to the caliper, an electric motor that generates hydraulic pressure in the hydraulic cylinder, and a brake ECU. The brake ECU controls the electric motor of braking system 210 based on detection results from sensors of driver control element 50 (e.g., a brake pedal) and control information from automatic driving control device 100, outputting braking torque to each wheel in response to the braking operation.

[0057] The steering system 220 includes, for example, a steering ECU and an electric motor. The electric motor of the steering system 220 applies force to, for example, a rack and pinion mechanism to change the direction of the steering wheel. The steering ECU drives the electric motor of the steering system 220 based on detection results from sensors of the driving operating element 50 (e.g., the steering wheel) and control information from the automatic driving control device 100 to change the direction of the steering wheel (i.e., the steering angle).

[0058] The automatic driving control device 100 includes an environment recognition unit 110, a high-precision position recognition unit 120, an action plan generation unit 130, and an action control unit 140. Furthermore, the automatic driving control device 100 includes a storage device (not shown) such as a flash memory that is accessible to the various functional units of the automatic driving control device 100 (e.g., the high-precision position recognition unit 120). The second map information 150 is stored in this storage device.

[0059] The environment recognition unit 110 performs sensor fusion processing on some or all of the information acquired by the camera 31, the radar device 32, and the detector 33 to identify objects around the vehicle M and their locations. For example, the environment recognition unit 110 identifies obstacles, road shapes, traffic lights, guardrails, utility poles, surrounding vehicles (including driving status such as speed and acceleration, and parked status), lane signs, pedestrians, and the like, and identifies their locations.

[0060] The high-precision position recognition unit 120 refers to the position of the vehicle M determined by the navigation device 40, the detection results of the vehicle sensor 34, the image captured by the camera 31, the second map information, and the like to recognize the detailed position and posture of the vehicle M. For example, the high-precision position recognition unit 120 recognizes the lane in which the vehicle M is traveling or the relative position and posture of the vehicle with respect to the lane.

[0061] The action plan generation unit 130 generates an action plan for vehicle M. Specifically, the action plan generation unit 130 generates a target trajectory for vehicle M to travel in the future as the action plan for vehicle M. The target trajectory is, for example, information representing locations (track points) that vehicle M should reach at predetermined travel distances (e.g., a few meters). The target trajectory may also include information on speed elements, such as the target speed and acceleration of vehicle M at predetermined time intervals or at each track point.

[0062] The behavior control unit 140 controls the vehicle M so that it behaves according to the behavior plan generated by the behavior plan generation unit 130. Specifically, the behavior control unit 140 controls the driving force output device 200, the braking device 210, and the steering device 220 so that the vehicle M passes through the target trajectory generated by the behavior plan generation unit 130 at a predetermined time. For example, the behavior control unit 140 controls the driving force output device 200 and the braking device 210 based on the speed factor associated with the target trajectory, or controls the steering device 220 based on the curvature of the target trajectory.

[0063] The second map information 150 is map information with higher accuracy than the first map information 43. For example, the second map information 150 includes information indicating the center of a lane and information indicating lane boundaries (e.g., road dividing lines). Furthermore, the second map information 150 may include road information, traffic control information, address information, facility information, telephone number information, and the like. The second map information 150 can be updated at any time. For example, the second map information 150 can be updated based on information acquired by some or all of the camera 31, radar device 32, and detector 33.

[0064] It should be noted that the various functional units of the automatic driving control device 100 are implemented, for example, by a CPU executing a prescribed program (software). In addition, some or all of the functional units of the automatic driving control device 100 may also be implemented by hardware such as LSI (Large Scale Integration), ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), FPGA, GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), etc. For example, the storage device storing the second map information 150 and the high-precision position recognition unit 120 may also be implemented by an MPU (Map Positioning Unit). Furthermore, some or all of the functional units of the automatic driving control device 100 may also be implemented by the collaboration of software and hardware.

[0065] The vehicles M (first vehicle M1 and second vehicle M2) equipped with the vehicle system 30 having the above-described structure are capable of autonomous driving through automated driving control. The levels of automated driving are categorized, for example, based on SEAJ3016, defined by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE International), from Level 0 to Level 5, depending on the degree of automation. A high degree of automation, for example, means a low degree of vehicle control based on driver (user) operations on the vehicle M, meaning that the driver is required to perform fewer tasks, such as monitoring the surroundings of the vehicle M.

[0066] Specifically, Level 0 is a driving level without automation. At Level 0, the driver performs all driving operations. Level 1 is a driving level (driving assistance) in which the vehicle M performs any one of acceleration, steering, and braking. At Level 1, under specific conditions, the vehicle M controls any one of the accelerator, brake, and steering wheel according to surrounding conditions, while the driver of the vehicle M performs all other driving operations.

[0067] Level 2 is a driving level in which the vehicle M simultaneously performs multiple operations including acceleration, steering, and braking (partial driving automation). At Level 2, the driver of the vehicle M is obligated to monitor the surroundings. Level 3 is a driving level in which the vehicle system 30 performs all of the operations including acceleration, steering, and braking, and the driver only responds when requested by the vehicle system 30 (conditional automated driving). At Level 3, the vehicle system 30 monitors the surroundings, and the driver of the vehicle M is not obligated to monitor the surroundings.

[0068] Level 4 is a driving level in which the vehicle system 30 performs all driving operations under specific circumstances, and the driver of the vehicle M does not need to take over even if the vehicle system 30 cannot continue driving (highly automated driving). Level 5 is a driving level in which the vehicle system 30 performs automated driving under all conditions (fully automated driving). Therefore, at Levels 4 and 5, the vehicle system 30 responds even in emergency situations.

[0069] It should be noted that the conditions for Levels 0 to 5 driving described above are merely examples. The order of Level 5, Level 4, Level 3, Level 2, Level 1, and Level 0 should be prioritized, with vehicles M with higher levels of automation (i.e., those with less driver workload) prioritizing them. These conditions can be arbitrarily set. For example, some or all of Levels 1 to 5 may be in autonomous driving mode, or some or all of Levels 1 to 5 may not be in autonomous driving mode but rather in a driving-assisted mode. Furthermore, the number of categorized driving levels is not limited to six.

[0070] The functions provided by the vehicle M are functions related to the autonomous driving and assisted driving of the vehicle M. The functions provided by the vehicle M may include all functions related to the autonomous driving and assisted driving of the vehicle M. For example, the driving levels 1 to 5 of the vehicle M described above may be associated with functions A to E provided by the vehicle M, respectively. Furthermore, for example, functions provided by the vehicle M may include an adaptive cruise control system, a lane keeping assist system, a speed control function, a lane change function, a takeover function, a diverging function, and a merging function.

[0071] Next, refer to Figure 5 and Figure 6 An example operation of the control system 300 will be described. This example operation describes the operation when user X first boards a first vehicle M1, which has restricted access, and then boards a second vehicle M2, which also has restricted access. It is assumed that both the first vehicle M1, which has restricted access, and the second vehicle M2, which has similarly restricted access, are owned by user X.

[0072] Figure 5 The operation of the control system 300 is shown when a user X having the user ID “#1” rides in the first vehicle M1 and obtains permission for a function that the user X wishes to use among the functions of the first vehicle M1.

[0073] First, the first vehicle M1 identifies the user ID "#1" of the user X who is riding in the vehicle (step S51). For example, the first vehicle M1 uses the vehicle sensor 34 to obtain user information such as a facial image, fingerprint, and voiceprint of the user X riding in the first vehicle M1 to identify the user ID "#1." Alternatively, the first vehicle M1 may receive input of the user ID "#1" and a password from the user X via a touch panel of the input / output device 36, etc., to identify the user ID "#1."

[0074] Next, the first vehicle M1 receives a user operation from the input / output device 36 for obtaining permission to activate a function of the first vehicle M1 (step S52). In this example operation, it is assumed that user X performs a user operation for obtaining permission to activate function A among the functions of the vehicle M1.

[0075] Next, the first vehicle M1 transmits the user ID “#1” of the user X and the function ID “A” indicating the function A to the control device 1 (step S53 ).

[0076] Upon receiving the user ID "#1" and the function ID "A" from the first vehicle M1, the control device 1 performs a billing process for the user X indicated by the user ID "#1" related to the function A indicated by the function ID "A" (step S54). For example, the control device 1 performs the billing process based on the registered credit card number (identification information) of the user X.

[0077] Next, the control device 1 records the received user ID “#1” and the function ID “A” in the management table 21 of the management unit 2 in association with each other (step S55 ).

[0078] Next, the control device 1 transmits a function on signal (A) for validating the function A of the first vehicle M1 to the first vehicle M1 based on the recorded function ID “A” (step S56 ).

[0079] The first vehicle M1 receives the function on signal (A) from the control device 1 and activates the function A of the first vehicle M1 (step S57 ). As a result, the user X can use the function A of the first vehicle M1 .

[0080] Figure 6 Indicates that if user X Figure 5 The above is the operation of the control system 300 when the user X gets on the second vehicle M2 after the first vehicle M1 obtains permission to enable the function A.

[0081] The second vehicle M2 determines the user ID "#1" of the user X who is riding in the vehicle (step S61). The method of determining the user ID "#1" in step S61 is the same as that in step S62. Figure 5 The determination method in step S51 is the same.

[0082] Next, the second vehicle M2 transmits the determined user ID “#1” to the control device 1 (step S62 ).

[0083] Upon receiving the user ID “#1” from the second vehicle M2, the control device 1 detects the user ID “#1” from the management table 21 of the management unit 2 and derives the function ID “A” corresponding to the detected user ID “#1” (step S63).

[0084] Next, the control device 1 transmits a function on signal (A) for validating the function A of the second vehicle M2 to the second vehicle M2 based on the derived function ID “A” (step S64 ).

[0085] The second vehicle M2 receives the function on signal (A) from the control device 1, thereby activating the function A of the second vehicle M2 (step S65). As a result, the user X can use the function A of the second vehicle M2.

[0086] Furthermore, the control device 1 transmits a function off signal (A) for disabling the function A of the first vehicle M1 to the first vehicle M1 based on the derived function ID “A” (step S66 ).

[0087] The first vehicle M1 receives the function OFF signal (A) from the control device 1 , thereby disabling the function A of the first vehicle M1 (step S67 ).

[0088] As described above, according to the control device 1, even when a user X uses multiple vehicles M (a first vehicle M1 and a second vehicle M2), the user X can enable function A of the second vehicle M2 when using the second vehicle M2, based on the permission for enabling function A of the first vehicle M1 obtained when using the first vehicle M1. Therefore, there is no need to obtain additional permission for enabling function A when using the second vehicle M2, thereby improving usability.

[0089] It should be noted that in the above Figure 5 and Figure 6 In the operation example of the control system 300 in FIG, the case where the user X first rides the first vehicle M1 with restricted users and then rides the second vehicle M2 with similar restricted users has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this and the following case may also be used.

[0090] For example, user X may first board a first vehicle M1 with unlimited access, and then board a second vehicle M2, also with unlimited access. Both the first vehicle M1 with unlimited access and the second vehicle M2 with unlimited access are owned by a legal entity. Alternatively, user X may first board a first vehicle M1 with limited access (individually owned), and then board a second vehicle M2 with unlimited access (legal entity owned). Even in such a case, based on the permission granted by user X to enable the functions of the first vehicle M1 when using the first vehicle M1, the functions of the second vehicle M2 can be enabled when using the second vehicle M2.

[0091] Conversely, for example, if user X first rides a first vehicle M1 with unlimited access (owned by a corporation) and then rides a second vehicle M2 with limited access (owned by an individual), user X's usage history of the first vehicle M1 can be added as an additional condition to enable the functions of the second vehicle M2 based on the permission obtained by user X in the first vehicle M1. For example, as an additional condition, user X's usage history of the first vehicle M1 must meet a specified threshold, including the duration, frequency, and payment amount of the first vehicle M1. The payment amount could include, for example, the cost of renting a child seat or the cost of a high-cost insurance contract.

[0092] In addition, in the above Figure 5 and Figure 6 In the illustrated example of control system 300 operation, when user X obtains permission to activate function A of first vehicle M1 while using first vehicle M1, the functions activated in second vehicle M2 when using second vehicle M2 are limited to the same functions as function A activated in first vehicle M1. However, the same functions may include functions of the same type with minor differences depending on the vehicle model. Therefore, when user X uses second vehicle M2 and, for example, wishes to activate function B, which is different from function A among the functions (e.g., functions A to J) possessed by second vehicle M2, he or she may obtain new permission to activate function B by performing a new permission registration (contract) while using second vehicle M2. Permission registration can be performed, for example, via input / output device 36. When permission to activate function B is obtained through the new permission registration of second vehicle M2, function ID "B" and user ID "#1" associated with the obtained permission are transmitted from second vehicle M2 to control device 1. Control device 1 records the received user ID "#1" in association with function ID "B" in management table 21. The control device 1 transmits a function ON signal (B) for validating the function B of the second vehicle M2 to the second vehicle M2 based on the recorded function ID “B”.

[0093] Furthermore, as described above, if permission to activate function B of the second vehicle M2 is obtained by registering a new permission in the second vehicle M2, the control device 1 may control the activation of function B of the first vehicle M1 based on the permission obtained through the new permission registration of the second vehicle M2 when user X uses the first vehicle M1 again. Furthermore, when user X obtains new permission for function B of the second vehicle M2, the control device 1 may set permission registration conditions for function B based on the extent of user X's use of the first vehicle M1. For example, the registration fee for the new permission for function B may be discounted based on user X's usage history of the first vehicle M1, such as the duration, frequency, and amount of payment.

[0094] In addition, in the above Figure 6 In the operational example, when function A of the second vehicle M2 is enabled based on permission obtained by user X to enable function A (see S64), control device 1 controls to disable function A of the first vehicle M1 (see S66). However, when, for example, function A of the first vehicle M1, which was disabled, is enabled based on the same permission, control device 1 controls to disable function A of the second vehicle M2. In other words, control device 1 controls to disable the function of the second vehicle M2 while the function of the first vehicle M1 is enabled based on the obtained permission, and to disable the function of the first vehicle M1 while the function of the second vehicle M2 is enabled.

[0095] The permission obtained by the user X when using the first vehicle M1 may be a permission that limits vehicle usage to the user X or a permission that allows usage by family members, relatives, and friends in addition to the user X.

[0096] In addition, when user X, for example, obtains permission to enable functions A to E when using the first vehicle M1, and then purchases a second vehicle M2 as a replacement for the first vehicle M1, and the second vehicle M2 is a vehicle that has functions A to C but does not have functions D and E, the control device 1 can also control the user X not to pay for functions D and E when using the second vehicle M2.

[0097] In addition, when user X, for example, obtains permission to enable functions A to E when using the first vehicle M1, then purchases a second vehicle M2 equipped with functions A to C, and further purchases a third vehicle M3 equipped with functions A to E, since functions D and E are included in the permission obtained when using the first vehicle M1, when permission to enable functions D and E is obtained again when using the third vehicle M3, the control device 1 can also control the discount on the re-purchase cost of functions D and E.

[0098] As mentioned above, although embodiment of this invention was described, this invention is not limited to the said embodiment, and it can make deformation|transformation, improvement, etc. as needed.

[0099] For example, in the above embodiment, the mobile body is described as a vehicle, but the present invention is not limited to vehicles and can also be applied to robots, ships, aircraft, etc. that have a driving source and can move by the power of the driving source.

[0100] In addition, at least the following matters are described in this specification: It should be noted that, although corresponding components and the like in the above-mentioned embodiment are shown in parentheses, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0101] (1) A control device (control device 1) capable of communicating with a first moving body (first vehicle M1) and a second moving body (second vehicle M2) different from the first moving body, wherein:

[0102] The control device comprises:

[0103] a management unit (management unit 2) that manages permission data for enabling a function of the first mobile object, which is acquired by a user when using the first mobile object, by associating it with identification information of the user; and

[0104] The control unit (control unit 3) performs control to enable a function of the second mobile object based on the permission data when the user uses the second mobile object.

[0105] According to (1), even when a user uses multiple mobile objects, the user can use the functions of other mobile objects based on the permission data obtained when using one of the mobile objects, so there is no need to obtain additional permission data. Therefore, usability can be improved.

[0106] (2) The control device according to (1), wherein

[0107] When both the first mobile object and the second mobile object are mobile objects with restricted users, or when both the first mobile object and the second mobile object are mobile objects with unlimited users, the control unit performs control to enable a function of the second mobile object based on the permission data.

[0108] According to (2), for example, when the first mobile object and the second mobile object are both owned by individuals, or when the first mobile object and the second mobile object are both owned by legal entities, usability can be improved.

[0109] (3) The control device according to (1) or (2), wherein:

[0110] When the first mobile object is a mobile object with restricted users and the second mobile object is a mobile object with unlimited users, the control unit performs control to validate a function of the second mobile object based on the permission data.

[0111] According to (3), for example, when the permission data is acquired for a first mobile object owned by an individual, there is no need to acquire the permission data separately even if the second mobile object is owned by a legal entity, thereby improving usability.

[0112] (4) The control device according to any one of (1) to (3), wherein

[0113] In a case where the first mobile body is a mobile body with no restrictions on users and the second mobile body is a mobile body with restricted users, the control unit controls the function of the second mobile body based on the permission data, on the condition that the user satisfies additional conditions different from the case of obtaining the permission data.

[0114] According to (4), when the permission data is acquired by the first mobile body that is not owned by an individual, a flexible permission form can be realized by not setting an additional condition for enabling the function of the second mobile body that is owned by an individual.

[0115] (5) The control device according to (4), wherein

[0116] The additional condition is a condition related to the user's usage history of the first mobile object.

[0117] According to (5), even if the first moving object is not owned by the individual, a flexible permission form can be realized, such as activating the function of the second moving object owned by the individual when the moving object is frequently used.

[0118] (6) The control device according to any one of (1) to (5), wherein

[0119] When the user uses the second mobile object, the control unit performs control to enable, based on the permission data, a function of the second mobile object that is the same as a function of the first mobile object.

[0120] According to (6), functions of the second mobile body that are different from the functions of the first mobile body that are enabled based on the permission data will not be enabled, thereby realizing a flexible permission form such as requiring separate permission data for functions unique to the second mobile body.

[0121] (7) The control device according to (6), wherein

[0122] When the user acquires new permission data for validating a function of the second mobile object that is different from the function of the first mobile object when using the second mobile object, the control unit performs control to validate the different function of the second mobile object.

[0123] According to (7), a function for which permission data has not been obtained in the first mobile body can be enabled by obtaining new permission data in the second mobile body, thereby realizing a flexible permission format.

[0124] (8) The control device according to (7), wherein

[0125] When the user uses the first mobile object, the control unit performs control to enable, based on the new permission data, a function of the first mobile object that is the same as the function of the second mobile object enabled by the new permission data.

[0126] According to (8), a function enabled by acquiring new permission data in the second mobile body can also be enabled when the first mobile body is used, thereby realizing a flexible permission format.

[0127] (9) The control device according to (7) or (8), wherein:

[0128] The control unit executes a process for causing the user to obtain the new permission data, and determines a condition for causing the user to obtain the new permission data based on a usage history of the user using the first mobile object.

[0129] According to (9), it is easy for the user to utilize functions in a plurality of mobile objects.

[0130] (10) The control device according to any one of (1) to (9), wherein

[0131] The control unit performs control based on the permission data to disable a function of the second moving object while a function of the first moving object is enabled, and to disable a function of the first moving object while a function of the second moving object is enabled.

[0132] According to (10), it is possible to prevent functions based on permission data corresponding to users from being simultaneously activated in a plurality of mobile bodies, thereby suppressing unauthorized use of the functions of the mobile bodies.

Claims

1. A control device capable of communicating with a first moving object and a second moving object different from the first moving object, wherein: The control device comprises: a management unit that manages permission data for enabling a function of the first mobile object, which is acquired by a user when using the first mobile object, by associating it with identification information of the user; and a control unit configured to perform control to enable a function of the second mobile object based on the permission data when the user uses the second mobile object, In a case where the first mobile body is a mobile body with no restrictions on users and the second mobile body is a mobile body with restricted users, the control unit controls the function of the second mobile body based on the permission data, on the condition that the user satisfies additional conditions different from the case of obtaining the permission data.

2. The control device according to claim 1, wherein: When both the first mobile object and the second mobile object are mobile objects with restricted users, or when both the first mobile object and the second mobile object are mobile objects with unlimited users, the control unit performs control to enable a function of the second mobile object based on the permission data.

3. The control device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: When the first mobile object is a mobile object with restricted users and the second mobile object is a mobile object with unlimited users, the control unit performs control to validate a function of the second mobile object based on the permission data.

4. The control device according to claim 1, wherein: The additional condition is a condition related to the user's usage history of the first mobile object.

5. The control device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: When the user uses the second mobile object, the control unit performs control to enable, based on the permission data, a function of the second mobile object that is the same as a function of the first mobile object.

6. The control device according to claim 5, wherein: When the user acquires new permission data for validating a function of the second mobile object that is different from the function of the first mobile object when using the second mobile object, the control unit performs control to validate the different function of the second mobile object.

7. The control device according to claim 6, wherein: When the user uses the first mobile object, the control unit performs control to enable, based on the new permission data, a function of the first mobile object that is the same as the function of the second mobile object enabled by the new permission data.

8. The control device according to claim 6 or 7, wherein: The control unit executes a process for causing the user to obtain the new permission data, and sets a condition for the user to obtain the new permission data based on the user's usage history of the first mobile object.

9. The control device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The control unit performs control based on the permission data to disable a function of the second moving object while a function of the first moving object is enabled, and to disable a function of the first moving object while a function of the second moving object is enabled.

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