Information processing apparatus, information processing method, and non-transitory readable medium

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to an information processing device, an information processing method, and a non-transitory readable medium. A control section of the information processing device calculates a sale amount of a second component based on information indicating a value of the second component, and subtracts the sale amount of the second component from a cost involved in installation of a first component, the second component being a component other than a component targeted for replacement of the first component among components decided to be detached from a vehicle in a case where the first component is installed to the vehicle, or being a component decided to be detached from the vehicle when the first component is installed to the vehicle in a case where the component targeted for replacement of the first component is not installed to the vehicle, and being a component selected for sale by a user of the vehicle.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to information processing apparatus, information processing methods, and non-transitory readable media. Background Technology

[0002] Previously, there were known technologies for upgrading (updating) the software of electronic control units (ECUs) installed in vehicles (e.g., Patent Document 1).

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent Document 1: International Publication No. 2019 / 009020 Summary of the Invention

[0005] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0006] The purpose of this disclosure is to provide an information processing device, an information processing method, and a non-transitory readable medium that can facilitate the installation of equipment in vehicles.

[0007] Technical solutions for solving the problem

[0008] One technical solution disclosed herein is an information processing device, including a control unit that calculates the selling price (sale price) of the second component based on information representing the value of the second component, and subtracts the selling price of the second component from the cost involved in installing the first component. The second component is a component that is determined to be removed from the vehicle when the first component is installed in the vehicle, other than the component that is a replacement for the first component, or a component that is determined to be removed from the vehicle when the first component is installed in the vehicle without a replacement for the first component being installed there, and is a component that the vehicle user chooses to sell.

[0009] Additionally, one technical solution disclosed herein is an information processing method, comprising: an information processing device calculating the sale price of the second component based on information representing the value of the second component, and subtracting the sale price of the second component from the cost involved in installing the first component, wherein the second component is a component other than the component that is to be removed from the vehicle when the first component is installed on the vehicle, or a component that is to be removed from the vehicle when the first component is installed on the vehicle without the component that is to be replaced by the first component, and is a component that the user of the vehicle chooses to sell.

[0010] Additionally, one technical solution disclosed herein is a program that causes a computer to perform: calculating the sale price of the second component based on information representing the value of the second component, and subtracting the sale price of the second component from the cost involved in installing the first component, wherein the second component is a component other than the component that is to be removed from the vehicle when the first component is installed on the vehicle, or a component that is to be removed from the vehicle when the first component is installed on the vehicle without the component that is to be replaced by the first component, and is a component that the user of the vehicle chooses to sell.

[0011] In addition to the information processing apparatus, information processing method and program described above, the technical solutions disclosed herein may also include at least one of an information processing system having the aforementioned information processing apparatus and a non-transitory readable medium recording the aforementioned program.

[0012] Invention Effects

[0013] According to this disclosure, it is possible to facilitate the installation of equipment on vehicles. Attached Figure Description

[0014] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the information processing system involved in the implementation method.

[0015] Figure 2 This diagram illustrates a configuration example of a terminal device that can be used as both server 3 and terminal 2.

[0016] Figure 3 This is a flowchart representing a processing example of terminal 2.

[0017] Figure 4 This is an example of a work sequence table (work order table) showing the installation of component X on a vehicle.

[0018] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the calculation process for the sales amount of the first item sold.

[0019] Figure 6 (A) is a diagram representing an example of the data structure of the component database stored in terminal 2. Figure 6 (B) is a diagram representing an example of a component management table managed by server 3.

[0020] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the calculation process for the sales amount of the second item for sale.

[0021] Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the calculation process for the sales amount of the third item.

[0022] Figure 9 This indicates a revised version of the process schedule. Detailed Implementation

[0023] The information processing apparatus involved in the implementation includes a control unit that calculates the selling price of the second component based on information indicating the value of the second component, and subtracts the selling price of the second component from the cost involved in installing the first component. The second component is a component that is determined to be removed from the vehicle when the first component is installed on the vehicle, other than a component that is a replacement for the first component, or a component that is determined to be removed from the vehicle when the first component is installed on the vehicle if no replacement for the first component is installed on the vehicle, and is a component that the vehicle user chooses to sell.

[0024] According to the information processing device, when the first component is installed in a vehicle, the second component can be sold, and the sales amount of the second component can be deducted from the cost involved in installing the first component. Therefore, the cost required to install the first component can be controlled, thus facilitating the installation of equipment (the first component) into vehicles.

[0025] Here, the type of the first component is not specified. Examples of the first component include advanced safety systems (collision damage mitigation braking, mislaunch restraint control, vehicle distance control, lane departure mitigation, rear-end collision avoidance system, or automatic headlight switching system, etc.). Additionally, the first component may include, for example, vehicle-mounted audio-visual equipment, car navigation systems, or communication equipment. Furthermore, the first component includes optional accessories that can be replaced with components that are determined to be installed as standard items during vehicle assembly. Optional accessories may include, for example, an engine hood, sunroof, seats, fenders, suspension, or muffler.

[0026] For example, when replacing a communication device with a next-generation device, the vehicle's dashboard is removed, and components surrounding the communication device are also removed before finally removing the target communication device. In this case, components such as displays, wireless chargers, GPS transmitters, or audio amplifiers located in the dashboard can sometimes obstruct the removal of the communication device, creating situations where the target communication device cannot be removed without first removing these components. Typically, after removing the target communication device from the vehicle and installing the new communication device, the removed components are reinstalled in the reverse order of removal. If, depending on the removed components (e.g., the wireless charger), they do not need to be reinstalled due to lack of use, or can even be sold, and the profits from their sale can cover the costs associated with installing the communication device (labor, etc.), then the barrier for vehicle users to decide to replace (equip) their communication devices is lowered. The information processing device involved in the implementation method assists in the sale of such components.

[0027] In this application, "second component" refers to a component other than the component that is a replacement for the first component, and is a component that the vehicle user chooses to sell. The component that is a replacement is, for example, a component that has the same function as the first component, such as the communication device described above. However, due to upgrades, this also includes cases where the function (communication function) is the same but the communication method is different (e.g., LTE and 5G). In the replacement of the aforementioned communication device, components such as displays, wireless chargers, GPS distributors, or audio amplifiers removed from the vehicle when disassembling the communication device to be replaced fall under the category of "components other than the replacement component," and the component that the user selects (decides) to sell from among these qualifies as a second component. A component that is not a replacement component may or may not be sold.

[0028] Furthermore, the second component can also be a component that is decided to be removed from the vehicle when the first component is installed in a vehicle, provided that no replacement component for the first component is already installed there, and it is a component that the vehicle's user chooses to purchase. That is, the first component is not only a component predicated on replacing the component installed in the vehicle, but it can also be a component that adds new functions to the vehicle. For example, if the vehicle does not have a communication device, and a new communication device, which is the first component, is installed, then in this case, although the vehicle does not have a replacement component, the component removed from the vehicle to install the new component, i.e., the communication device, qualifies as a "second component." In this case, the profit from selling the second component would also encourage the installation of the first component in the vehicle.

[0029] In the information processing apparatus according to the embodiments, the second component may also include a first sold item, which is a component removed from the vehicle during the process of installing the first component on the vehicle. For example, there are cases where the first component is a communication device, and the communication device to be replaced during the process of replacing the communication device is, for example, to be removed after the audio amplifier and wireless charger are removed. In this case, the first sold item is the audio amplifier and wireless charger, which the user selects as the seller.

[0030] Furthermore, in the information processing apparatus according to the embodiments, the second component may also include a second product for sale, which is a vehicle component that does not need to be disassembled during the process of installing the first component on the vehicle but can be disassembled due to the disassembly of components in the process of installing the first component. For example, in the above-described process of replacing a communication device, although it is not necessary to disassemble the audio amplifier and wireless charger when disassembling the communication device to be replaced, they become easily disassembled (with minimal labor time) after removing the dashboard. In this case, at least one of the audio amplifier and the wireless charger may be disassembled as a second component.

[0031] Furthermore, in the information processing apparatus according to the embodiments, the second component may also include a third saleable item, which is a vehicle component that can be disassembled through a process different from the process of installing the first component on the vehicle. For example, during the replacement or installation of the aforementioned communication equipment, there may be situations where users wish to remove unwanted components from the vehicle for sale to reduce the cost of installing the first component. For example, it is possible to remove mudguards, wheel covers, lights, or antennas from the vehicle for sale. Their disassembly is performed in a process different from (unrelated to) the installation process of the communication equipment. Such components may also be included in the second component.

[0032] Alternatively, the information processing apparatus involved in the implementation may also be configured as follows: That is, the control unit may, upon determining that a replacement part for the first product to be installed in the vehicle, offset the cost of installing the replacement part against the sales price of the first product. For example, when selling the second part, there may be a situation where a user desires to install a part (the replacement part) with the same function as the second part. For example, there may be a situation where the user wishes to avoid the vehicle losing its function due to the sale of the second part, or where the vehicle is required to have the part. In this case, the cost of the replacement part and the installation fee (labor cost) offset the profit from the sale of the second part. The replacement part may be, for example, a part with a lower grade than the second part. However, a lower grade is not a necessary condition.

[0033] Furthermore, the information processing apparatus involved in the implementation may also be configured as follows: The control unit may determine whether a transaction with a pre-registered person is established based on information indicating a desire to purchase the second component, or based on the response when inquiring about the purchase intention of the second component from a pre-registered person who has pre-registered information indicating a desire to purchase. In this case, if it is determined that a transaction for the second component with a pre-registered person is not established, information may be output to solicit potential buyers of the second component. The determination of the establishment of a transaction can be made using the pre-registered information indicating a desire to purchase, or by providing the pre-registered person with information inquiring about their purchase intention of the second component and obtaining a response. For the successful sale of the second component, it is preferable to pre-register potential buyers of the second component. Moreover, for example, information including the selling price, preferred delivery method (delivery at the dismantling location or delivery by a distribution company, etc.), and the date and time of visiting the dismantling location may be provided to the pre-registered person. In the absence of pre-registered persons, it is preferable to solicit potential buyers so that users can obtain a profit from the sale.

[0034] Furthermore, the information processing apparatus involved in the implementation can also be configured as follows: That is, the control unit can calculate a higher sales amount for the second component than if the second component were delivered to the buyer, if it is determined that the buyer of the second component will come to the dismantling location on the date the second component is removed from the vehicle to pick it up. If the buyer visits the dismantling location on the day the second component is removed, the effort (time and labor) required for storing and delivering the second component can be saved. Therefore, it is preferable to make the sales amount higher than in the case of delivery.

[0035] Alternatively, the information processing apparatus involved in the implementation may also be configured as follows: When the control unit determines that no buyer has been decided for the second component by the date the second component is removed from the vehicle, it calculates the selling price of the second component based on information indicating the demand for the second component. The demand can be calculated, for example, based on market prices (e.g., average prices) for components of the same type as the second component and the number of days required from the publication of the sales information to the purchase. For example, a higher demand indicates that even with a high selling price, the transaction will be completed in a short time. That is, when the selling price is set to a fixed value, the demand becomes information indicating the length of the period until the transaction is completed. The longer the period, the greater the costs of storing and publishing sales information. Therefore, a configuration where the lower the demand, the lower the selling price calculated by the control unit can also be adopted.

[0036] Alternatively, the information processing apparatus described in the embodiment can also be configured such that the control unit updates the process list indicating the steps for installing the first component based on the sale of the second component. This allows for efficient sequential operation of the installation of the first component.

[0037] Hereinafter, the information processing apparatus, information processing method, and program related to the embodiments will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. The configuration of the embodiments is shown as an example, and this disclosure is not limited to the configuration of the embodiments.

[0038] <The Composition of Information Processing Systems>

[0039] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the information processing system involved in the implementation method. Figure 1 In this system, the information processing system includes a network 1, a terminal 2 located in a car repair shop 5, a server 3 connected to the network 1, and one or more terminals 4. Terminal 2 is an example of an "information processing device".

[0040] Network 1, such as the Internet or other public communication networks, provides communication lines to terminals 2, 3, and 4. Wireless communication networks can also be connected to network 1. These wireless communication networks conform to or comply with wireless communication standards that terminal 2 can utilize. Examples of wireless communication standards include 4G (LTE (Long Term Evolution)), 5G, wireless LAN (Local Area Network, including Wi-Fi), and BLE, but other standards are also possible.

[0041] Terminal 2 is, for example, a terminal installed on the terminal of repair shop 5, and operated by staff 12 of repair shop 5. Terminal 2 is used to create a work schedule for installing component X (an example of component X) on vehicle 10 and to estimate the cost of installing component X. Terminal 2 can be either a fixed terminal or a portable terminal.

[0042] Vehicle 10 is an automobile (car, truck, or bus, etc.). Components A, B, C, D, and Z are installed on vehicle 10. Component D is a replacement for component X, which is the object to which it is installed. Components A, B, and C are components that are removed from vehicle 10 to remove component D. Component Y is a replacement for component C and is installed in vehicle 10 in place of component C. Component Z is installed in vehicle 10 and is removed from vehicle 10 through a (different) process unrelated to the process involved in the installation of component X.

[0043] For example, components X and D are communication devices, component A is a dashboard, component B is an audio amplifier, components C and Y are wireless chargers, and component Z is a tire cover. However, these components are only examples.

[0044] Server 3 manages information related to transactions of various components. Server 3 is also used to publicly display information on the sale of components dismantled from vehicle 10. Terminal 4 is used by the user of terminal 4. The user 13 of terminal 4 is a person who has pre-registered with server 3 expressing a desire to purchase components (pre-registerer) or a person who views the information on the sale of components published by server 3.

[0045] <Terminal Composition>

[0046] Figure 2 This diagram illustrates an example configuration of a terminal device 20 capable of functioning as terminal 2, server 3, and terminal 4. The terminal device 20 can be configured using, for example, a general-purpose information processing device (computer) such as a personal computer (PC) or workstation, or a dedicated information processing device such as a server machine. The terminal device 20 has communication capabilities and can connect to network 1 via wired or wireless means.

[0047] exist Figure 2In this context, the terminal device 20 includes a processor 21, a storage device 22, a communication interface 23 (communication IF 23), an input device 24, and an output device 25, which are interconnected via a bus 26 and serve as a processing unit or control unit (controller). The server 3 can be a single terminal device 20 or a collection of two or more terminal devices 20 (cloud).

[0048] Storage device 22 includes a main storage device and an auxiliary storage device. The main storage device is used as a storage area for programs and data, a program expansion area, a program working area, and a buffer area for communication data. The main storage device is constructed from RAM (Random Access Memory) or a combination of RAM and ROM (Read Only Memory). The auxiliary storage device is used as a storage area for data and programs. As an auxiliary storage device, non-volatile storage media such as hard disks, solid-state drives (SSDs), flash memory, and EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory) can be used.

[0049] The communication IF23 is a circuit that performs communication processing, functioning as both a transmitter and receiver (communication unit). For example, the communication IF23 is a network interface card (NIC). Alternatively, the communication IF23 can also be a wireless communication circuit that performs wireless communication (LTE, 5G, wireless LAN (Wi-Fi), BLE, etc.). Furthermore, the communication IF23 can also include both wired communication processing circuitry and wireless communication circuitry.

[0050] Input device 24 includes keys, buttons, pointing devices, and touch panels, and is used for information input. Input device 24 may also include a microphone (voice input device). Output device 25 is, for example, a liquid crystal display or an organic EL display, for displaying information and data. Output device 25 may also include a speaker (voice output device).

[0051] The processor 21 is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit). The processor 21 performs various processes by executing various programs stored in the storage device 22.

[0052] For example, the processor 21 of the terminal device 20, which operates as terminal 2, performs tasks such as creating a work schedule for installing component X into vehicle 10 and calculating the sales price of the component. The processor 21 of the terminal device 20, which operates as server 3, performs tasks such as collecting and managing information representing the value of the component and processing related to the public disclosure of component sales information. The processor 21 of the terminal device 20, which operates as terminal 4, obtains sales information from server 3 and responds to server 3 with information related to the purchase of the component.

[0053] Furthermore, the processor 21 described above can utilize multiple CPUs or a multi-core CPU. At least a portion of the processing performed by the CPU can also be performed by a processor other than the CPU, such as a DSP (Digital Signal Processor) or a GPU (Graphical Processing Unit). Additionally, at least a portion of the processing performed by the CPU can also be executed by application-specific integrated circuits (hardware) such as ASICs (Application Specific Integrated Circuits) and FPGAs (Field Programmable Gate Arrays), or a combination of a processor and an integrated circuit. Such combinations are, for example, referred to as microcontrollers (MCUs), system-on-a-chip (SoCs), system LSIs, or chipsets.

[0054] <Work Example>

[0055] Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating a processing example of the processor 21 of the terminal device 20 operating as terminal 2. Figure 3 The processing shown is performed by executing a program by the processor 21 of terminal 2.

[0056] Terminal 2, for example, is used by staff 12 of repair shop 5 to negotiate (negotiate) with user 11 of vehicle 10 regarding the date of warehousing for the installation of part X and the parts removed from vehicle 10 and sold upon warehousing.

[0057] In step S001, the processor 21 outputs a process table (initial state) for the case where component X is installed on the vehicle 10. Figure 4 This is an example of a data structure representing the process table stored in the storage device 22 of terminal 2.

[0058] The process schedule is a list of processes related to the installation of component X. It stores the arrival date of vehicle 10 (installation date of component X) for the installation of component X, the sequence of processes, the content of each process, the component name and identification information (component ID), and information indicating the labor cost for each component. Furthermore, the process schedule also stores information indicating replacement components for the disassembled component and their labor costs, components that can be disassembled due to the disassembly of a certain component (called removable components) and their labor costs, as well as remarks. As remarks, it stores information such as the price of the new installation object, replacement component, and removable component, and the component's attributes (replacement object or new installation object).

[0059] The process schedule is displayed on the output device 25 (display) of terminal 2 to prompt the user 11 of vehicle 10 with the process schedule, explaining the process and cost related to the installation of component X.

[0060] In step S002, the processor 21 of terminal 2 receives information input via input device 24. That is, the worker 12 of repair shop 5 explains each step while showing the process schedule to the user 11. At this time, the processor 21 displays on the screen that parts A, B, C, and D need to be disassembled for the installation of part X. Additionally, the processor 21 displays on the screen that parts A and B cannot be sold, but parts C and D can be sold (parts C and D can be considered for sale), and prompts the user to input whether to sell each of parts C and D. The worker 12 uses input device 24 to input the response from the user 11 into terminal 2. In this embodiment, it is assumed that the user 11 decides to sell parts C and D. Here, part C is an example of "second part" and "first item for sale," and part D is an example of "parts to be replaced."

[0061] Additionally, processor 21 outputs information to the display asking whether to install the replacement component Y for component C, and whether to disassemble and sell component E, which can be disassembled due to the disassembly of component D. Component E is an example of "second component" and "second item for sale".

[0062] Furthermore, the processor 21 outputs information to the display asking whether to proceed with the disassembly of a component unrelated to the installation process of component X. Regarding this information, in this embodiment, it is assumed that, according to the user 11's wishes, the terminal 2 has been inputted regarding the installation of component Y, the disassembly and sale of component E, and the disassembly of component Z, which is performed in a process different from the installation process of component X. Component Z is an example of "second component" and "third item for sale." The information input in step S002 is stored by the storage device 22. The process table stores information indicating the components to be sold. For example, in... Figure 4In the example shown, the component IDs of components C and E are indicated by italics and emphasis characters, while the component ID of component D is indicated by italics. In reality, a symbol indicating that a component is for sale is set for each component of the item being sold.

[0063] In step S003, the processor 21 of terminal 2 determines whether the component of the sale object includes the first sale item. If it is determined that the first sale item is included, the process proceeds to step S004; otherwise, the process proceeds to step S005.

[0064] In step S004, the processor 21 of terminal 2 executes a subroutine to calculate the sales amount of the first item for sale. Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the process for calculating the sales amount of the first item sold.

[0065] exist Figure 5 In step S101, the processor 21 of terminal 2 refers to the process table ( Figure 4 In step S102, the price information of the first item for sale determined in step S101 is obtained from server 3.

[0066] Here, the storage device 22 of terminal 2 stores Figure 6 The component database (Component DB) shown in (A) consists of records (entries) for each component ID. The records include the component name, whether it is for sale, labor cost, trade-in price, transaction price, demand level, and information of the person who registered in advance.

[0067] Component name refers to the name of the component, etc. "Whether it can be sold" indicates whether the disassembled component can be sold. In this embodiment, components A and B are prohibited from being sold, while components C and D are allowed to be sold. A judgment on whether it can be sold can be made appropriately; for example, components that are not intended to be reinstalled or that have deteriorated due to deformation or other reasons caused by disassembly are considered obsolete and therefore prohibited from sale. "Labor cost" indicates the labor cost involved in the disassembly and installation of the target component.

[0068] The trade-in price represents the price at which the part is purchased by repair shop 5. The transaction price represents the average price of the part sold on auction websites or online secondhand shopping websites. Demand level is information that roughly measures how quickly a transaction is completed, with a value of 0 ≤ demand level ≤ 1. Pre-registered information refers to the information of one or more people who wish to purchase the desired part, pre-registered on server 3, including the part ID and the pre-registered person's personal information (name and contact information).

[0069] The trade-in price, transaction price, demand, and information of pre-registered users are managed by a component management table stored in the storage device 22 of the terminal device 20, which functions as server 3 (see reference). Figure 6 (B) Terminal 2 accesses server 3 via network 1 and sends a request (data request) for providing information (information representing value) about the component ID (information representing value) logged in the component database of terminal 2. Server 3 reads the information corresponding to the data request from the component management table and sends it to terminal 2. The processor 21 of terminal 2 stores the information received from server 3 in the component database.

[0070] In step S102, the processor 21 of terminal 2 reads the component ID of component C, which is the first product to be sold, from the process table, and generates a data request containing the component ID of component C and sends it to server 3. Then, terminal 2 receives a record from server 3 in the component management table for component C as a response to the data request. The processor 21 of terminal 2 stores the record from server 3 in the component C record of the component DB.

[0071] In step S103, the processor 21 of terminal 2 refers to the record of component C in component DB to determine whether there is information about a pre-registered user. If it is determined that there is information about a pre-registered user, the process proceeds to step S104; otherwise, the process proceeds to step S107.

[0072] In step S104, a purchase decision is made for a person selected from the pre-registered applicants according to predetermined rules. There may be a case where the information of the pre-registered applicant selected in step S104 includes the allowed purchase amount range, the desired delivery method (receiving by visiting the repair shop 5 or by delivery), and the date and time of the possible visit. In this case, processor 21 determines whether these match the disassembly date and transaction price of component C in the work order (step S105). If the purchase amount range and the possible visit date match the disassembly date and transaction price, and if the delivery method is the desired delivery and the transaction price is determined to be consistent, it is decided to sell component C to the pre-registered applicant. In this case, the process proceeds to step S110. If the sale of component C is not decided in step S105, i.e., the transaction is determined to be invalid, the process proceeds to step S106.

[0073] In contrast, in step S104, if a purchase decision cannot be made based on the information of the pre-registered user, the processor 21 sends a message to the pre-registered user's terminal 4 inquiring about their intention to purchase component C. The message includes information on the transaction price, the address and date of visit of the repair shop 5 in the case of pickup, the transaction price in the case of delivery, and a response deadline. The user 13 of terminal 4 can refer to the message to generate a response message containing information on whether to purchase and the delivery method (pickup or delivery), and send it to terminal 2.

[0074] If a response message is received by terminal 2 within the response period, the processor 21 of terminal 2 determines in step S105 whether the response indicates a desire to purchase. If the response indicates a desire to purchase, the transaction is established, and the process proceeds to step S110. If the response does not indicate a desire to purchase, or if it is determined that no response has been received by the response period, the process proceeds to step S106.

[0075] In step S106, the processor 21 determines whether there are any other pre-registered users. If it is determined that there are other pre-registered users, the process returns to step S104; otherwise, the process proceeds to step S107.

[0076] In step S107, the processor 21 of terminal 2 sends a message to server 3, requesting it to publicly disclose (promote) information related to the purchase of component C. Server 3 manages a website displaying the transaction price and / or collection method of the component for sale, and posts information related to component C on the website. Alternatively, information related to component C can also be sent to one or more terminals 4 via SMS, email, or other message formats.

[0077] In step S108, the processor 21 of terminal 2 waits for a response period from user 13 of terminal 4. In step S109, it is determined whether there is a subscriber whose transaction price and delivery method match the information related to component C. In step S110, if a subscriber is determined to be available, the processor 21 of terminal 2 selects a person from the subscribers to sell component C according to a predetermined rule, and determines that the transaction is complete, thus proceeding to step S109; otherwise, the process proceeds to step S111.

[0078] In step S110, the processor of terminal 2 calculates the selling price of component C by multiplying the transaction price by a coefficient corresponding to the delivery method. If the buyer picks up component C from repair shop 5 on a specified date and time, the coefficient is set to, for example, 1. Conversely, if component C is to be delivered, the coefficient is set to a value smaller than the value (=1) for the pick-up scenario. Therefore, the selling price is higher for the pick-up scenario than for the delivery scenario.

[0079] In step S111, the processor 21 of terminal 2 calculates the selling price by multiplying the transaction price by a coefficient corresponding to the demand level. The coefficient corresponding to the highest demand level is set to 1, and the lower the demand level, the smaller the value of the coefficient. At this time, either the demand level itself can be used as the coefficient, or a coefficient corresponding to the demand level can be prepared. When the demand level is lower than a certain value, the selling amount becomes the trade-in price (minimum selling amount).

[0080] In step S112, the processor 21 determines whether the calculation of the sales amount for all first-sale items has ended. Furthermore, even if the component being replaced (component D in this embodiment) does not qualify as a first-sale item, its sales amount can still be calculated using the subroutine of step S004. However, steps S006 or S008, described later, can also be used.

[0081] When step S112 ends, the process returns to step S005. Figure 3 The processor 21 determines whether a second item is available for sale. If a second item is available for sale, in step S006, the processor 21 calculates the sales amount of the second item. In this embodiment, since component E is the second item for sale, step S006 is executed.

[0082] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the process for calculating the sales amount of the second item for sale. The processes in steps S201 to S212 are the same as those in steps S101 to S112, except that the first item for sale becomes the second item. Therefore, a detailed explanation of the processes in steps S201 to S212 is omitted.

[0083] When the processing in step S212 ends, the process returns to step S007. Figure 3 The processor 21 determines whether a third item is available for sale. If a third item is available for sale, in step S008, the processor 21 calculates the sales amount of the third item. In this embodiment, since component Z is the third item for sale, the processing in step S008 is performed.

[0084] Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the process for calculating the sales amount of the third item for sale. The processes in steps S301 to S312 are the same as those in steps S101 to S112, except that the first item for sale is the third item. Therefore, a detailed explanation of the processes in steps S301 to S312 is omitted.

[0085] When the processing in step S312 ends, the process returns to step S009. Figure 3 The processor 21 then modifies the process table. Figure 9 This is a diagram showing an example of a revised process schedule.

[0086] like Figure 9As shown, through the correction performed by processor 21, information indicating the method of sale of component C as the first item for sale (delivery method: visit, name, and date and time of visit) is added to the remarks column of component C disassembly. Additionally, information indicating the method of sale of component D (delivery method: delivery, name, and address) is added to the remarks column of component D disassembly. Furthermore, a process for disassembling component E as the second item for sale is added to the process table. Information indicating the method of sale of component E (delivery method: delivery, name, and address) is added to the remarks column of this process. Moreover, a process for disassembling component Z as the third item for sale is added to the process table. Information indicating the method of sale of component Z (delivery method: visit, name, and date and time) is added to the remarks column of this process.

[0087] Thus, in the case of a second and a third product for sale, a process for disassembling them is added to the process table, and information indicating the sales method of each product is added to the remarks column. On the other hand, columns indicating replacement parts and detachable parts are deleted. In addition, processor 21 calculates the total cost of each process (processes 1 to 10) in the process table and records it in the process table. In addition, processor 21 calculates the component prices of newly installed components X and Y in vehicle 10 and their total value, as well as the sales amount and their total value of components C, E, and Z, which are the first to third products for sale, and component D, which is the replacement object, and records them in the process table. The sum of the total cost and the total component price represents the cost involved in the installation of component X, and processor 21 subtracts the total sales amount from this cost (step S010). At this time, if the result of subtracting the total sales amount from the total cost is negative, it is possible to subtract the negative value from the total component price, or vice versa. In other words, the cost of labor and the price of the component can be reduced by the sales amount. At this time, the cost of installing the replacement component is offset against the sales amount of the second component. The processor 21 outputs (displays) the cost of installing component X to the output device 25 (display), etc. (step S011).

[0088] <Effects of the Implementation Method>

[0089] The control unit (processor 21) of the information processing apparatus (terminal 2) according to the embodiment calculates the selling price of the second component based on information representing the value of the second component (information stored in the records of each component in the component DB). The second component is component C, other than component D, which is the replacement object for the first component X, among components C and D that are determined to be removed from the vehicle 10 when the first component X is installed. Alternatively, the second component may be component C that is determined to be removed from the vehicle 10 when the first component X is installed in the vehicle 10 without component D, the replacement object for the first component X, being installed on the vehicle 10. In addition, the processor 21 of the terminal 2 subtracts the selling price of the second component from the cost involved in the installation of the first component (at least one of labor cost and component price). As a result, the cost involved in the installation of the first component X can be controlled, promoting the provision of the first component X.

[0090] In this embodiment, the second component includes a first saleable item (component C), which is a component removed from the vehicle 10 during the process of installing the first component X. Additionally, the second component includes a second saleable item (component E), which is a component of the vehicle 10 that does not require removal during the process of installing the first component X but can be removed due to the removal of component D during the process of installing the first component X. Furthermore, the second component includes a third saleable item (component Z), which is a component of the vehicle 10 that can be removed through a process different from the process of installing the first component X. By selling not only the first saleable item but also the second and third saleable items, the costs involved in installing the first component X can be further controlled.

[0091] Furthermore, if the processor 21 of terminal 2 is installed in vehicle 10 as a replacement part Y of the first sold product, the cost (labor and part price) of installing the replacement part Y will offset the sales amount of the first sold product. Figure 3 (S010). Thus, it is possible to cheaply install the alternative component using the sales profit of the second component (at least one of the first to third sold products).

[0092] Furthermore, the processor 21 of terminal 2 determines whether a sales transaction is established with a pre-registered person who has previously registered their intention to purchase the second component, based on information indicating a desire to do so. The processor 21 can also determine whether a sales transaction is established with a pre-registered person based on their response when inquiring about their intention to purchase the second component. If the processor 21 determines that a sales transaction for the second component with a pre-registered person is not established, it outputs information recruiting potential buyers for the second component (sent to terminal 4). This facilitates the sale of the second component.

[0093] Furthermore, when the buyer of the second component comes to the place where the second component is disassembled (repair shop 5) to pick up the second component, the processor 21 of terminal 2 calculates a higher sales amount for the second component than if the second component were delivered to the buyer. Thus, by visiting the part pickup location, the sales amount can be higher than in the case of delivery.

[0094] Furthermore, if the purchaser of the second component has not been determined by the date the second component is removed from the vehicle 10, the processor 21 of terminal 2 calculates the selling price of the second component based on information indicating the demand for the second component. Thus, the selling price can be calculated in such a way that the higher the demand for the second component (the shorter the time required until the transaction is completed), the higher the selling price.

[0095] Additionally, the processor 21 of terminal 2 updates the process table representing the installation of the first component based on the calculation of the sales amount of the second component (see reference). Figure 9 Therefore, it is possible to record the costs involved in installing the first component X and the sales amount of each second component, so that the cost minus the sales amount can be calculated.

[0096] <Other>

[0097] The above-described implementation is merely an example, and this disclosure can be implemented with appropriate modifications without departing from its spirit. Furthermore, processes described as being performed by a single device can also be performed by multiple devices. Alternatively, processes described as being performed by different devices can be performed by a single device. The hardware architecture (server architecture) used to implement each function in the computer system can be flexibly changed.

[0098] This disclosure can also be implemented by providing a computer with a computer program having the functions described in the above embodiments, and having one or more processors of the computer read and execute the program. Such a computer program can be provided to the computer either via a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium connectable to the computer's system bus or via a network. Non-transitory computer-readable storage media include, for example, any type of disk such as a magnetic disk (floppy disk, hard disk drive (HDD), etc.) or an optical disk (CD-ROM, DVD, Blu-ray disc, etc.). Furthermore, non-transitory computer-readable media include read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), EPROM, EEPROM, magnetic cards, flash memory, optical cards, and any type of medium suitable for storing electronic commands.

Claims

1. An information processing device, comprising a control unit, The control unit, Based on information representing the value of the second component, the selling price of the second component is calculated. The second component is a component that is to be removed from the vehicle when the first component is installed on the vehicle, other than the component that is the replacement object of the first component, or a component that is to be removed from the vehicle in order to newly install the first component in the vehicle when no component that is the replacement object of the first component is installed on the vehicle, and is a component that the user of the vehicle chooses to sell. Subtract the sale price of the second component from the cost of installing the first component. The second component includes a second saleable item, which is a component of the vehicle that does not need to be disassembled during the process of installing the first component on the vehicle, but can be easily disassembled due to the disassembly of the component during the process of installing the first component.

2. The information processing device according to claim 1, The second component includes a first saleable component, which is a component removed from the vehicle during the process of installing the first component on the vehicle.

3. The information processing device according to claim 1, The second component includes a third product for sale, which is a component of the vehicle that can be disassembled through a process different from that of installing the first component onto the vehicle.

4. The information processing device according to claim 2, If a replacement part of the first product is to be installed in the vehicle, the control unit shall offset the cost of installing the replacement part against the sales amount of the first product.

5. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, The control unit determines whether a sales transaction with the pre-registered person is established based on information indicating a desire to purchase the second component, or on the response when inquiring about the purchase intention of the second component from a pre-registered person who has previously registered information indicating a desire to purchase the second component.

6. The information processing apparatus according to claim 5, If the control unit determines that the sale and purchase transaction of the second component with the pre-registered party is not established, it outputs information to solicit potential buyers of the second component.

7. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, When the buyer of the second component comes to the place where the second component was removed to pick up the second component, the control unit calculates a higher sales amount for the second component than the sales amount for the second component if it is delivered to the buyer of the second component.

8. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, If the control unit has not yet determined the buyer of the second component by the date of removal from the vehicle, it calculates the selling price of the second component based on information indicating the demand for the second component.

9. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, The control unit updates the process table representing the process of installing the first component based on the calculation of the sales amount of the second component.

10. An information processing method, comprising: Information processing device Based on information representing the value of the second component, the selling price of the second component is calculated. The second component is a component that is to be removed from the vehicle when the first component is installed on the vehicle, other than the component that is the replacement object of the first component, or a component that is to be removed from the vehicle in order to newly install the first component in the vehicle when no component that is the replacement object of the first component is installed on the vehicle, and is a component that the user of the vehicle chooses to sell. Subtract the sale price of the second component from the cost of installing the first component. The second component includes a second saleable item, which is a component of the vehicle that does not need to be disassembled during the process of installing the first component on the vehicle, but can be easily disassembled due to the disassembly of the component during the process of installing the first component.

11. The information processing method according to claim 10, The second component includes a first saleable component, which is a component removed from the vehicle during the process of installing the first component on the vehicle.

12. The information processing method according to claim 10, The second component includes a third product for sale, which is a component of the vehicle that can be disassembled through a process different from that of installing the first component onto the vehicle.

13. The information processing method according to claim 11, The information processing device, in the event that a replacement part of the first product will be installed in the vehicle, offsets the cost of installing the replacement part against the sales amount of the first product.

14. A non-transitory readable medium storing a program that causes a computer to execute: Based on information representing the value of the second component, the selling price of the second component is calculated. The second component is a component that is to be removed from the vehicle when the first component is installed on the vehicle, other than the component that is the replacement object of the first component, or a component that is to be removed from the vehicle in order to newly install the first component in the vehicle when no component that is the replacement object of the first component is installed on the vehicle, and is a component that the user of the vehicle chooses to sell. Subtract the sale price of the second component from the cost of installing the first component. The second component includes a second saleable item, which is a component of the vehicle that does not need to be disassembled during the process of installing the first component on the vehicle, but can be easily disassembled due to the disassembly of the component during the process of installing the first component.

15. The non-transient readable medium according to claim 14, The second component includes a first saleable component, which is a component removed from the vehicle during the process of installing the first component on the vehicle.

16. The non-transient readable medium according to claim 14, The second component includes a third product for sale, which is a component of the vehicle that can be disassembled through a process different from that of installing the first component onto the vehicle.

17. The non-transient readable medium according to claim 15, The program causes the computer to perform the following: if a replacement part for the first product will be installed in the vehicle, the cost of installing the replacement part is offset against the sales amount of the first product.

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