Information processing apparatus, information processing system, program, and vehicle

Abstract

The present invention relates to an information processing apparatus, an information processing system, a program, and a vehicle. An information processing apparatus includes a control section. The control section predicts required amounts of electric power for charging of vehicles used by a plurality of users respectively, and determines a time band in which the required amounts of electric power exceed a threshold value, and when the control section determines that one of the plurality of users will avoid using a relevant vehicle on the next day, causes charging of the vehicle of the one user to wait in the time band, and provides an incentive to the one user.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to information processing devices, information processing systems, programs, and vehicles. Background Technology

[0002] Conventionally, technologies related to charging vehicles, including, for example, battery electric vehicles (BEVs), are known. For example, WO2013 / 031036 discloses a charging control system in which the vehicle is charged using electricity from a fixed energy storage device if the charging conditions of the vehicle are met, and the vehicle is charged using electricity from a power distribution network if the charging conditions of the vehicle are not met. Summary of the Invention

[0003] However, conventional technologies do not adequately consider the charging of vehicles when the power required across the entire community to which multiple users belong increases.

[0004] This disclosure provides a technique that can suppress excessive increases in the amount of electricity required throughout a community.

[0005] The information processing apparatus according to an embodiment of this disclosure includes a control unit. The control unit predicts the required electrical power for charging vehicles used by multiple users, determines a time period during which the required electrical power exceeds a threshold, and when the control unit determines that one of the multiple users will avoid using the relevant vehicle the following day, it causes the charging of that user's vehicle to wait during that time period and provides an incentive to that user.

[0006] The procedure according to embodiments of this disclosure causes the information processing device to perform operations including: predicting the required power for charging vehicles used by multiple users respectively; determining a time period in which the required power exceeds a threshold; determining whether one of the multiple users will avoid using the relevant vehicle the following day; and when it is determined that one of the multiple users will avoid using the relevant vehicle the following day, causing the charging of one user's vehicle to wait in that time period, and providing an incentive to that user.

[0007] The vehicle according to an embodiment of this disclosure includes a control unit. The control unit predicts the required power for charging a vehicle used by multiple users respectively, and determines a time period during which the required power exceeds a threshold. When the control unit determines that one of the multiple users will avoid using the relevant vehicle the following day, it causes the charging of that user's vehicle to wait during that time period and provides an incentive to that user.

[0008] The information processing apparatus, information processing system, program, and vehicle according to embodiments of this disclosure enable the suppression of excessive increases in the amount of electricity required throughout the community. Attached Figure Description

[0009] The features, advantages, and technical and industrial significance of exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which like symbols denote like elements, and wherein

[0010] Figure 1 This is a configuration diagram showing the configuration of an information processing system including an information processing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0011] Figure 2 It is shown Figure 1 Functional block diagram illustrating the corresponding schematic configuration of information processing devices, vehicles, and terminal equipment;

[0012] Figure 3 It is used to describe by Figure 1 A sequence diagram illustrating examples of information processing methods executed by the information processing system in the diagram;

[0013] Figure 4 It is used to describe by Figure 1 A flowchart of a first example of an information processing method executed by an information processing device in a [the context of the document].

[0014] Figure 5 It is used to describe by Figure 1 A flowchart of a second example of an information processing method executed by an information processing device in a [the context of the process].

[0015] Figure 6 It is used to describe by Figure 1 A flowchart of a third example of an information processing method executed by an information processing device in the above; and

[0016] Figure 7 It is used to illustratively describe the... Figure 1 A diagram showing the processing performed by the information processing device in the diagram. Detailed Implementation

[0017] Embodiments of this disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0018] Figure 1 This is a configuration diagram showing the configuration of an information processing system 1 including an information processing apparatus 10 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. (Refer to...) Figure 1 The main description includes an overview of the information processing system 1 of the information processing apparatus 10 according to embodiments of the present disclosure. In addition to the information processing apparatus 10, the information processing system 1 also includes a vehicle 20 and a terminal device 30.

[0019] exist Figure 1 For simplicity, only one information processing device 10 is shown in this illustration; however, the information processing system 1 may include two or more information processing devices 10. Figure 1For simplicity, only one vehicle 20 and one terminal device 30 are shown in the illustration; however, the information processing system 1 includes two or more vehicles 20 and two or more terminal devices 30. The information processing device 10, the vehicles 20, and the terminal devices 30 are each communicatively connected to a network 40, which includes, for example, mobile communication networks and the Internet.

[0020] Information processing device 10 is a server device or any of a plurality of server devices that can communicate with each other. Information processing device 10 is not limited to these examples and can be any general-purpose electronic device, such as a personal computer (PC) or smartphone or another electronic device specifically designed for information processing system 1.

[0021] Each vehicle 20 is, for example, a battery-electric vehicle. Each vehicle 20 is, for example, an autonomously operated vehicle. Autonomous operation includes, for example, levels 1 to 5 as defined in the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE), but is not limited to these levels and can be arbitrarily defined. Each vehicle 20 is not limited to an autonomously operated vehicle, but can be any vehicle operated by a driver.

[0022] Each terminal device 30 is, for example, a general-purpose electronic device, such as a smartphone or PC. Each terminal device 30 is, for example, an electronic device used by a user of the associated vehicle 20. Each terminal device 30 is not limited to these examples and may be a server device used by a user of the associated vehicle 20, or any of a plurality of server devices that can communicate with each other, or may be an electronic device dedicated to the information processing system 1.

[0023] As an overview of the embodiment, the information processing device 10 predicts the electrical power required for charging vehicles 20 used by multiple users. The information processing device 10 determines a time slot during which the predicted electrical power requirement exceeds a threshold. In this specification, examples of a "threshold" include a power value obtained by multiplying an upper limit of the power supply that can be used to charge vehicles 20 by a specific ratio. Such a threshold is appropriately determined by, for example, a local government managing the communities to which the multiple users belong, and is stored as information in the information processing device 10.

[0024] If one of the multiple users determines that they will avoid using the relevant vehicle 20 the following day, the information processing device 10 allows the charging of the user's vehicle 20 to wait during that time period. The information processing device 10 then provides an incentive to the user. In this specification, examples of "incentives" include, for example, cash, coupons, credit card points, points usable on e-commerce (EC) websites, shopping apps, etc., points usable in games, points usable on public transportation, and paper tickets such as taxi tickets.

[0025] Figure 2 It is shown Figure 1 A functional block diagram illustrating the corresponding schematic configuration of the information processing device 10, vehicle 20, and terminal equipment 30. This will be primarily referenced. Figure 2 To describe the corresponding exemplary configurations of the information processing device 10, vehicle 20, and terminal device 30 included in the information processing system 1.

[0026] like Figure 2 As shown, the information processing device 10 includes a communication section 11, a storage section 12, and a control section 13.

[0027] The communication section 11 includes a communication module connected to the network 40. For example, the communication section 11 includes a communication module conforming to mobile communication standards such as fourth-generation (4G) or fifth-generation (5G) or Internet standards. In an embodiment, the information processing device 10 is connected to the network 40 via the communication section 11. The communication section 11 transmits and receives various information fragments via the network 40.

[0028] Examples of storage section 12 include, but are not limited to, semiconductor memory, magnetic memory, and optical memory. Storage section 12 may serve as, for example, a main memory unit, an auxiliary memory unit, or a cache memory. Storage section 12 stores any information used for the operation of information processing device 10. For example, storage section 12 stores, for example, system programs, application programs, and various information fragments received or transmitted by communication section 11. Information stored in storage section 12 can be updated using, for example, information received from network 40 via communication section 11.

[0029] The control section 13 includes one or more processors. In embodiments, a "processor" is a general-purpose processor or a processor dedicated to a specific process, but is not limited to these examples. The control section 13 is communicatively connected to a corresponding component portion included in the information processing apparatus 10 and controls the overall operation of the information processing apparatus 10.

[0030] This section will primarily describe the configuration of the vehicle 20 included in the information processing system 1. For example... Figure 2 As shown, vehicle 20 includes a communication section 21, a storage section 22, an acquisition section 23, an input section 24, an output section 25, and a control section 26. The communication section 21, storage section 22, acquisition section 23, input section 24, output section 25, and control section 26 are communicatively connected to each other via, for example, an in-vehicle network such as a controller area network (CAN) or a dedicated line.

[0031] The communication section 21 includes a communication module connected to the network 40. For example, the communication section 21 includes a communication module conforming to mobile communication standards such as 4G or 5G. In this embodiment, the vehicle 20 is connected to the network 40 via the communication section 21. The communication section 21 transmits and receives various information fragments via the network 40.

[0032] Examples of storage section 22 include, but are not limited to, semiconductor memory, magnetic memory, and optical memory. Storage section 22 may serve as, for example, a main memory unit, an auxiliary memory unit, or a cache memory. Storage section 22 stores any information used for the operation of vehicle 20. For example, storage section 22 stores system programs, application programs, and various information fragments received or transmitted by communication section 21. Information stored in storage section 22 can be updated using, for example, information received from network 40 via communication section 21.

[0033] Acquisition section 23 includes one or more receivers compatible with any satellite positioning system. For example, acquisition section 23 includes a Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver. Acquisition section 23 acquires measurements of the location of vehicle 20 as location information. Location information includes, for example, address, latitude, longitude, and altitude. Acquisition section 23 may acquire the location information of vehicle 20 continuously, periodically, or irregularly.

[0034] Input section 24 includes one or more input interfaces, which, for example, receive user input operations from inside the cabin of vehicle 20 and acquire input information based on the user input operations. For example, input section 24 includes input interfaces included in a car navigation device. For example, input section 24 includes a touchscreen integrated with an LCD monitor included in the car navigation device. Input section 24 receives user input operations, for example, based on user touch operations.

[0035] The input section 24 is not limited to these examples and may include any input interface capable of detecting user input and acquiring input information based on user input. The input section 24 may include, for example, physical keys, capacitive keys, and a microphone for receiving voice input.

[0036] The output section 25 includes one or more output interfaces, which output information, for example, to a user inside the cabin of the vehicle 20. For example, the output section 25 includes an output interface included in a car navigation device. For example, the output section 25 includes an LCD monitor included in a car navigation device. For example, the output section 25 outputs information in at least one form, either images or voice.

[0037] Output section 25 is not limited to these examples and may include any output interface that affects at least one of the visual and auditory perceptions of the user of vehicle 20. Output section 25 may include any audio output interface, for example, different from the audio output interface of a car navigation device, which primarily affects the auditory perception of the user of vehicle 20. Output section 25 may include any image output interface, for example, different from the image output interface of a car navigation device, which primarily affects the visual perception of the user of vehicle 20.

[0038] The control section 26 includes one or more processors. In embodiments, a "processor" is a general-purpose processor or a processor dedicated to a specific process, but is not limited to these examples. For example, the control section 26 includes an electronic control unit (ECU). The control section 26 is communicatively connected to a corresponding component included in the vehicle 20 and controls the overall operation of the vehicle 20.

[0039] The main description will focus on the configuration of the terminal device 30 included in the information processing system 1. For example... Figure 2 As shown, the terminal device 30 includes a communication section 31, a storage section 32, an input section 33, an output section 34, and a control section 35.

[0040] The communication section 31 includes a communication module connected to the network 40. For example, the communication section 31 includes a communication module conforming to mobile communication standards such as 4G or 5G or Internet standards. In this embodiment, the terminal device 30 is connected to the network 40 via the communication section 31. The communication section 31 transmits and receives various information fragments via the network 40.

[0041] Examples of storage section 32 include, but are not limited to, semiconductor memory, magnetic memory, and optical memory. Storage section 32 may serve as, for example, a main memory unit, an auxiliary memory unit, or a cache memory. Storage section 32 stores any information used for the operation of terminal device 30. For example, storage section 32 stores, for example, system programs, application programs, and various information fragments received or transmitted by communication section 31. Information stored in storage section 32 can be updated using, for example, information received from network 40 via communication section 31.

[0042] The input section 33 includes one or more input interfaces, which, for example, detect user input and acquire input information based on user actions. For example, the input section 33 includes, for example, physical keys, capacitive keys, a touchscreen integrated with the display of the output section 34, and a microphone for receiving voice input.

[0043] The output section 34 includes one or more output interfaces that output information to provide information to the user. Examples of the output section 34 include, but are not limited to, a display that outputs information in the form of images and a speaker that outputs information in the form of voice.

[0044] The control section 35 includes one or more processors. In embodiments, a "processor" is a general-purpose processor or a processor dedicated to a specific process, but is not limited to these examples. The control section 35 is communicatively connected to a corresponding component section included in the terminal device 30 and controls the overall operation of the terminal device 30.

[0045] Figure 3 It is used to describe by Figure 1 A sequence diagram illustrating an example of an information processing method executed by information processing system 1. (Refer to...) Figure 3 To describe by Figure 1 An example of an information processing method executed by information processing system 1 in the example. Figure 3 The sequence diagram in the diagram indicates the flow of basic processing in the information processing method executed by the information processing system 1.

[0046] In step S100, the control section 13 of the information processing device 10 continuously acquires data on the required electrical power for charging the vehicles 20 used by multiple users, and stores the data in the storage section 12.

[0047] In step S101, the control part 35 of each terminal device 30 obtains the relevant user schedule input by the user using the input part 33.

[0048] In step S102, the control unit 35 of each terminal device 30 transmits the content of the user schedule obtained in step S101 as information to the information processing device 10 via the communication unit 31 and the network 40. Therefore, the control unit 13 of the information processing device 10 obtains multiple schedules of multiple users from multiple terminal devices 30 respectively.

[0049] In step S103, the control unit 13 of the information processing device 10 predicts the required power for charging the vehicles 20 used by multiple users respectively. For example, the control unit 13 predicts the required power for charging the vehicles 20 used by multiple users based on at least one of the past data on required power stored in the storage unit 12 in step S100 and the schedules of multiple users obtained in step S102.

[0050] In step S104, the control section 13 of the information processing device 10 determines the time band during which the required electrical force predicted in step S103 exceeds the threshold.

[0051] In step S105, the control unit 13 of the information processing device 10 determines that one of the multiple users will avoid using vehicle 20 the following day. For example, the control unit 13 determines whether the user will avoid using the relevant vehicle 20 the following day based on the schedule of a user obtained in step S102 for the following day.

[0052] In step S106, if the control unit 13 of the information processing device 10 determines that the user will avoid using the vehicle 20 the following day, the control unit 13 generates information to allow the user's vehicle 20 to wait for charging during the time period determined in step S104. For example, the control unit 13 generates information to control the vehicle 20 so as to prevent the vehicle 20 from receiving power from the grid during that time period, even if the vehicle 20 is connected to the grid. For example, the control unit 13 generates notification information to urge the user of the vehicle 20 not to connect the vehicle 20 to the grid during that time period.

[0053] In step S107, the control unit 13 of the information processing device 10 transmits the control information generated in step S106 to the vehicle 20 via the communication unit 11 and the network 40. Therefore, the control unit 26 of the vehicle 20 obtains the control information from the information processing device 10. Based on the obtained control information, the control unit 26 controls the vehicle 20 to prevent the vehicle 20 from receiving power from the grid during that time period, even if the vehicle 20 is connected to the grid. For example, the control unit 26 can electrically control the vehicle 20 to prevent the vehicle 20 from receiving power from the grid while the vehicle 20 remains connected to the grid. For example, the control unit 26 can control the vehicle 20 to physically disconnect the vehicle 20 from the grid.

[0054] In step S108, the control unit 13 of the information processing device 10 transmits the notification information generated in step S106 to the terminal device 30 via the communication unit 11 and the network 40. Therefore, the control unit 35 of the terminal device 30 obtains the notification information from the information processing device 10. Based on the obtained notification information, the control unit 35 performs notification processing for the user via the output unit 34, urging the user of vehicle 20 not to connect vehicle 20 to the power grid during that time period.

[0055] In step S109, the control section 13 of the information processing device 10 sets the incentive to be provided to the user, for whom information for charging the vehicle 20 to wait has been generated in step S106.

[0056] In step S110, the control unit 13 of the information processing device 10 transmits the stimulus content set in step S109 as information to the vehicle 20 via the communication unit 11 and the network 40. Therefore, the control unit 26 of the vehicle 20 obtains the stimulus information from the information processing device 10. Based on the obtained stimulus information, the control unit 26 outputs the stimulus content set in step S109 to the user via the output unit 25.

[0057] In step S111, the control unit 13 of the information processing device 10 transmits the stimulus content set in step S109 as information to the terminal device 30 via the communication unit 11 and the network 40. Therefore, the control unit 35 of the terminal device 30 obtains the stimulus information from the information processing device 10. Based on the obtained stimulus information, the control unit 35 outputs the stimulus content set in step S109 to the user via the output unit 34.

[0058] Following the above processing sequence, the control section 13 of the information processing device 10 causes the user's vehicle 20 to wait in the time slot determined in step S104 and provides an incentive to the user.

[0059] More specifically, in step S112, the control section 13 of the information processing device 10 determines that there is no actual charging of the user's vehicle 20 during the time period determined in step S104.

[0060] In step S113, the control section 13 of the information processing device 10 provides the user with the stimulus set in step S109.

[0061] Figure 4 It is used to describe by Figure 1 A flowchart of a first example of an information processing method performed by the information processing device 10 in [the document]. (Refer to...) Figure 4 To describe by Figure 1 The first example of an information processing method executed by the information processing device 10. Figure 4 The flowchart shown illustrates the flow of basic processing in the information processing method performed by the information processing device 10.

[0062] In step S200, the control unit 13 continuously acquires data on the electrical power required for charging the vehicles 20 used by multiple users, and stores the data in the storage unit 12.

[0063] In step S201, the control unit 13 obtains the schedules of multiple users from multiple terminal devices 30.

[0064] In step S202, the control unit 13 predicts the required power for charging the vehicles 20 used by multiple users respectively. For example, the control unit 13 predicts the required power for charging the vehicles 20 used by multiple users based on past data of required power stored in the storage unit 12 in step S200 and at least one of the schedules of multiple users obtained in step S201.

[0065] In step S203, the control unit 13 determines the time band during which the required electrical force predicted in step S202 exceeds the threshold.

[0066] In step S204, control unit 13 determines whether one of the multiple users will avoid using vehicle 20 the following day. For example, control unit 13 determines whether a user will avoid using vehicle 20 the following day based on the user's schedule obtained in step S201. If control unit 13 determines that the user will avoid using vehicle 20 the following day, control unit 13 executes the processing in step S205. If control unit 13 determines that the user will not avoid using vehicle 20 the following day, control unit 13 terminates the processing.

[0067] In step S205, if the control unit 13 determines in step S204 that the user will avoid using vehicle 20 the following day, the control unit 13 generates information to allow the user's vehicle 20 to wait for charging during the time slot determined in step S203. For example, the control unit 13 generates information to control vehicle 20 so as to prevent vehicle 20 from receiving power from the grid during that time slot, even if vehicle 20 is connected to the grid. For example, the control unit 13 generates notification information to urge the user of vehicle 20 not to connect vehicle 20 to the grid during that time slot.

[0068] The control unit 13 transmits the control information generated in step S205 to the vehicle 20 via the communication unit 11 and the network 40. The control unit 13 transmits the notification information generated in step S205 to the terminal device 30 via the communication unit 11 and the network 40.

[0069] In step S206, the control unit 13 sets the incentive to be provided to the user, for whom information for charging the vehicle 20 has been generated in step S205.

[0070] The control unit 13 transmits the stimulus content set in step S206 as information to the vehicle 20 via the communication unit 11 and the network 40. The control unit 13 also transmits the stimulus content set in step S206 as information to the terminal device 30 via the communication unit 11 and the network 40.

[0071] Following the above processing sequence, the control unit 13 causes the user's vehicle 20 to wait for charging within the time slot determined in step S203, and provides an incentive to the user.

[0072] More specifically, in step S207, the control unit 13 determines whether charging of the user's vehicle 20 has actually not yet been performed within the time band determined in step S203. If the control unit 13 determines that charging has not actually been performed, the control unit 13 performs the processing in step S209. If the control unit 13 determines that charging has actually been performed, the control unit 13 performs the processing in step S208.

[0073] In step S208, if the control unit 13 determines in step S207 that charging has actually been performed, then the control unit 13 does not provide the user with the stimulus set in step S206.

[0074] In step S209, if the control unit 13 determines in step S207 that charging has not actually been performed, the control unit 13 provides the user with the stimulus set in step S206.

[0075] Figure 5 It is used to describe by Figure 1 A flowchart of a second example of an information processing method performed by the information processing device 10 in [the document]. (Refer to...) Figure 5 To describe by Figure 1 A second example of an information processing method executed by the information processing device 10. Figure 5 The flowchart shown more specifically indicates the main indications used in Figure 4 The excitation processing is set in step S206.

[0076] In step S300, the control unit 13 obtains the schedules of multiple users from multiple terminal devices 30.

[0077] In step S301, control section 13 predicts the user's mode of transportation for the following day, which was obtained in step S300, based on the user's schedule for the next day. In this specification, examples of "mode of transportation" include, for example, walking, cycling, and public transportation such as trains, buses, and taxis.

[0078] In step S302, the control unit 13 changes the incentive content based on the user's mode of transportation predicted in step S301 for the following day. For example, the control unit 13 sets incentives available in the game related to the mode of transportation predicted in step S301.

[0079] In step S303, in addition to the above-described stimulus setting process, control unit 13 sets game events related to the vehicles predicted in step S301. For example, if control unit 13 in Figure 4 If, in step S204, it is determined that the user will avoid using vehicle 20 the following day, then control unit 13 executes such game event setting processing. Control unit 13 transmits the game event content set in step S303 as information to vehicle 20 via communication unit 11 and network 40. Control unit 13 also transmits the game event content set in step S303 as information to terminal device 30 via communication unit 11 and network 40.

[0080] For example, if the mode of transportation is walking, the game events set by control section 13 include game events that will defeat users who walk through a predetermined area within a predetermined time period. For example, if the mode of transportation is cycling, the game events set by control section 13 include game events that will defeat users who cycle through a predetermined area within a predetermined time period. For example, if the mode of transportation is public transportation such as a train or bus, the game events set by control section 13 include specific game events generated only by users who move to a specific location such as a train station or bus station. For example, if the mode of transportation is a taxi, the game events set by control section 13 include specific game events generated only by users who move to a specific location such as a taxi stand.

[0081] Figure 6 It is used to describe by Figure 1 A flowchart of a third example of an information processing method performed by the information processing device 10. (Refer to...) Figure 6 To describe by Figure 1 A third example of an information processing method executed by the information processing device 10. Figure 6 The flowchart shown more specifically indicates the main indications used in Figure 4 The excitation setting process in step S206.

[0082] In step S400, the control unit 13 obtains, for example, the weather information for the next day from an external server of a network 40 connected to the outside of the information processing system 1.

[0083] In step S401, control unit 13 determines, based on the weather information obtained in step S400, whether multiple users have a strong tendency to use the corresponding vehicle 20 the following day. If control unit 13 determines that multiple users have a strong tendency to use the corresponding vehicle 20 the following day, control unit 13 performs the processing in step S402. If control unit 13 determines that multiple users only have a weak tendency to use the corresponding vehicle 20 the following day, control unit 13 terminates the processing.

[0084] For example, if control unit 13 obtains information that it will rain the next day as weather information in step S400, then control unit 13 determines that multiple users have a strong tendency to use the corresponding vehicle 20 the next day. For example, if control unit 13 obtains information that the weather will be sunny the next day as weather information in step S400, then control unit 13 determines that multiple users only have a weak tendency to use the corresponding vehicle 20 the next day.

[0085] In step S402, if the control unit 13 determines in step S401 that there is a strong tendency to use vehicle 20 the next day, the control unit 13 increases the incentive to be provided to a user for whom information has been generated to make vehicle 20 charge waiting.

[0086] Figure 7 It is used to illustratively describe the... Figure 1 The diagram shows the processing performed by the information processing device 10. Figure 7 More specifically, the main instructions are in Figure 5 The excitation setting process in step S302. Figure 7 In this process, control unit 13 defines, for example, the time period from 22:00 to 23:00 as the time period during which the required electrical power for charging vehicle 20 exceeds a threshold. To provide a user with an incentive to wait for charging of vehicle 20 during this time period, control unit 13 modifies the incentive based on the user's mode of transportation the following day. Figure 7 An example is provided indicating four vehicles V1, V2, V3, and V4 to be used by four users A, B, C, and D respectively; however, the number of vehicles 20 included in the information processing system 1 is not limited to four.

[0087] For user A, control unit 13 obtains the schedule for the next day of the vacation. Based on the obtained schedule for user A the next day, control unit 13 predicts that user A's mode of transportation the next day will not be user A's vehicle V1, but only walking. In this case, control unit 13 sets the number of steps in the walking game as an incentive to be provided to user A if user A waits to charge vehicle V1 during the time period from 22:00 to 23:00.

[0088] For user B, control unit 13 obtains the next day's schedule for a commute that is much longer than the scenario of using vehicle V2. Based on the obtained next day's schedule for user B, control unit 13 predicts that user B's mode of transportation the next day will not be user B's vehicle V2, but only a bicycle. In this case, control unit 13 sets points that can be used in the cycling game as an incentive to be given to user B when user B makes vehicle V2 charge while waiting in the time slot from 22:00 to 23:00.

[0089] As described above, the control section 13 is set with incentives available in the game related to the predicted vehicles.

[0090] For user C, control unit 13 obtains the next day's schedule with a slightly longer commute time than if vehicle V3 were used. Based on user C's next day schedule, control unit 13 predicts that user C's mode of transportation the next day will not be user C's vehicle V3, but only public transportation such as trains and buses. In this case, control unit 13 sets the points available on public transportation as an incentive to be provided to user C if user C waits to charge vehicle V3 during the time slot from 22:00 to 23:00.

[0091] For user D, control unit 13 obtains the next day's schedule for a trip to a customer located relatively close to the user's office, rather than to the user's office. Based on the obtained next day's schedule for user D, control unit 13 predicts that user D's mode of transportation the next day will not be user D's vehicle V4, but only a taxi. In this case, control unit 13 sets a taxi ticket as an incentive to be provided to user D if user D waits for vehicle V4 to charge during the time slot from 22:00 to 23:00. Control unit 13 provides the incentive to user D by, for example, performing notification processing for the taxi company to provide a notification to user D to send a taxi ticket.

[0092] The above embodiments can suppress excessive increases in the amount of electricity required throughout the community. For example, the information processing device 10 can suppress power supply and demand imbalances during a predetermined time period by delaying the charging of a user's vehicle 20 during that time period. Therefore, the information processing device 10 enables the suppression of power shortages throughout the community during that time period. If a user has not actually charged their vehicle 20 during that time period, the information processing device 10 provides an incentive to the user, thereby enhancing the user's motivation to avoid charging their vehicle 20 during that time period. Thus, the user actively seeks to use the information processing system 1. As a result, the effect of suppressing power supply and demand imbalances during that time period is more reliable, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of the information processing system 1.

[0093] The information processing device 10 determines whether a user will avoid using the relevant vehicle 20 the following day based on the user's schedule, thereby improving the accuracy of determinations related to such determinations.

[0094] The information processing device 10 modifies the incentive content based on a user's mode of transportation the following day, enabling the setting of incentives suitable for the user's actual mode of transportation. Therefore, the information processing device 10 allows for the setting of refined incentives, thereby enhancing the user's interest in the incentives. As a result, the user's motivation to avoid charging the relevant vehicle 20 at a predetermined time can be further strengthened.

[0095] The information processing device 10 can set incentives suitable for a user's actual use of a vehicle by setting incentives available in games related to vehicles. Therefore, the information processing device 10 enables the setting of more refined incentives, thereby enhancing the user's interest in the incentives. As a result, the user's motivation to avoid charging the relevant vehicle 20 at predetermined times can be further strengthened.

[0096] The information processing device 10 can set up game events suitable for a user's actual use of a vehicle by configuring game events related to the vehicle. Therefore, the information processing device 10 enables the configuration of detailed game events, thereby enhancing the user's interest in the game events. As a result, it can further strengthen the user's motivation to avoid charging the relevant vehicle 20 at predetermined times.

[0097] If the information processing device 10 determines that multiple users have a strong tendency to use the corresponding vehicle 20 the following day, the information processing device 10 increases the incentive. Therefore, even if such a tendency is strong, the information processing device 10 can urge users to avoid using the relevant vehicle 20 the following day. Users receive greater incentives, which strengthens their motivation to avoid charging the relevant vehicle 20 within a predetermined time frame and to avoid using the vehicle 20 the following day. Therefore, users actively attempt to use the information processing system 1. As a result, the effect of suppressing the imbalance between power supply and demand during the time frame is more reliable, and the effectiveness of the information processing system 1 is enhanced.

[0098] Although this disclosure has been described with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments, it should be noted that various modifications and alterations can be made based on this disclosure by those skilled in the art. Therefore, it should be understood that such modifications and alterations are included within the scope of this disclosure. For example, functions included in components or steps may be rearranged in a manner that does not cause logical inconsistencies, and multiple components or steps may be combined into one or may be separated.

[0099] For example, at least a portion of the processing operations performed in the information processing device 10 in the above embodiments can be performed in the vehicle 20 or the terminal device 30. For example, instead of the information processing device 10, the vehicle 20 itself can perform the processing operations associated with the information processing device 10. At least a portion of the processing operations performed in the vehicle 20 or the terminal device 30 can be performed in the information processing device 10.

[0100] For example, a general-purpose electronic device such as a smartphone or computer can be used as the information processing apparatus 10 according to the above embodiments. More specifically, a program describing processing content for implementing corresponding functions of the information processing apparatus 10, etc., according to the embodiments is stored in the memory of the electronic device, and the program is read and executed by the processor of the electronic device. Therefore, the present disclosure according to the embodiments can be implemented in the form of a program executable by a processor.

[0101] Alternatively, this disclosure according to embodiments may be implemented in the form of a non-transitory computer-readable medium on which a program is stored, which can be executed by one or more processors to cause, for example, the information processing apparatus 10 according to embodiments to perform corresponding functions. It should be understood that such programs and media are also included within the scope of this disclosure.

[0102] For example, the information processing device 10 described in the above embodiments can be installed in the vehicle 20. In this case, the information processing device 10 can directly perform information communication with the vehicle 20 without going through the network 40.

[0103] Although the above embodiments have been described based on the scenario where the information processing device 10 predicts the required power based at least on past data of required power stored in the storage section 12 and the schedules of multiple users, this disclosure is not limited to this scenario. The information processing device 10 may obtain, for example, weather information from an external server connected to a network 40 outside the information processing system 1, and also predict the required power based on the obtained weather information.

[0104] Although the above embodiments have been described based on the scenario where the information processing device 10 determines whether a user will avoid using the relevant vehicle 20 the following day based on the user's schedule for the next day, this disclosure is not limited to this scenario. Instead of or in addition to the determination process, the information processing device 10 may determine whether a user will avoid using the vehicle 20 the following day based on input information related to the user's mode of transportation for the next day. Therefore, the information processing device 10 can perform such determination processing based on information that directly reflects the user's intention. Thus, the information processing device 10 enables further improvement in the accuracy of the determination process.

[0105] For example, replacing Figure 4 The processing in step S201 or other than Figure 4 In addition to the processing in step S201, the information processing device 10 can receive input information obtained from the input section 24 of a user's vehicle 20 via the network 40 and the communication section 11. For example, instead of Figure 4 The processing in step S201 or other than Figure 4In addition to the processing in step S201, the information processing device 10 can receive input information obtained from the input section 33 of a user's terminal device 30 via the network 40 and the communication section 11.

[0106] Although the above embodiments have been described with reference to information for waiting for a user's vehicle 20 to charge within a predetermined time period and to the information processing device 10 generating control information and notification information for the vehicle 20, this disclosure is not limited to this scenario. The information processing device 10 may generate only one of the control information and notification information for the vehicle 20. In addition to or in lieu of these information segments, the information processing device 10 may generate control information for controlling the power grid, thereby preventing the power grid from feeding power to the vehicle 20 within the predetermined time period even if the vehicle 20 is connected to the power grid.

[0107] Although the above embodiments have been described with respect to the case where the information processing device 10 transmits the stimulus content as information to the vehicle 20 and the terminal device 30, this disclosure is not limited to this case. The information processing device 10 may transmit the stimulus content as information to either the vehicle 20 or the terminal device 30.

[0108] Although the above embodiments have been described with respect to the case where the information processing device 10 obtains the user's schedule from the user's terminal device 30, this disclosure is not limited to this case. The information processing device 10 may obtain the user's schedule from an external server included in a cloud system to which the user's terminal device 30 is connected.

[0109] Although the above embodiments have been described with reference to the case where the information processing device 10 changes the incentive content based on a user's mode of transportation the following day, this disclosure is not limited to this case. The information processing device 10 can set the same incentive content regardless of a user's mode of transportation the following day.

[0110] Although the above embodiments have been described with respect to the case where the information processing device 10 is configured with incentives available in a game related to transportation, this disclosure is not limited to this case. The information processing device 10 may be configured with incentives available in a game unrelated to transportation, or incentives that may be used for purposes other than gaming.

[0111] Although the above embodiments have been described with reference to the case where game events related to vehicles are set up by the information processing device 10, this disclosure is not limited to this case. The information processing device 10 may set up game events unrelated to vehicles, or such setting up processing may be omitted.

[0112] Although the above embodiments have been described based on the situation where the information processing device 10 determines that multiple users have a strong tendency to use the corresponding vehicle 20 the following day, and the information processing device 10 increases the incentive, this disclosure is not limited to this situation. The information processing device 10 can maintain a constant incentive regardless of the degree of the tendency.

[0113] Even with the same mode of transportation, the information processing device 10 can individually modify the incentive content. For example, when the mode of transportation is a bus, the information processing device 10 can add more incentives as the user uses an environmentally friendly bus that emits less CO2.

Claims

1. An information processing apparatus comprising a control section, wherein the control section predicts required amounts of electric power for charging of vehicles used by a plurality of users respectively, and determines time bands in which the required amounts of electric power exceed a threshold value, and when the control section determines that one of the plurality of users will avoid using a relevant vehicle on the next day, causes charging of the one user's vehicle to wait in the time bands, and provides an incentive to the one user, wherein the control section changes content of the incentive in accordance with a means of transportation of the one user on the next day.

2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control section determines whether the one of the plurality of users will avoid using the relevant vehicle on the next day, based on a schedule of the one user on the next day.

3. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the control section determines whether the one of the plurality of users will avoid using the relevant vehicle on the next day, based on input information related to a means of transportation of the one user on the next day.

4. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control section sets the incentive available in a game related to the means of transportation.

5. The information processing apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the control section sets a game event related to the means of transportation.

6. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control section increases the incentive when the control section determines that the plurality of users have a strong tendency to use respective vehicles on the next day. 7.An information processing system comprising: the information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6; vehicles used by a plurality of users respectively; and terminal devices used by the plurality of users respectively. 8.A program for causing an information processing apparatus to perform operations comprising: predicting required amounts of electric power for charging of vehicles used by a plurality of users respectively; determining time bands in which the required amounts of electric power exceed a threshold value; determining whether one of the plurality of users will avoid using a relevant vehicle on the next day; and when it is determined that the one of the plurality of users will avoid using the relevant vehicle on the next day, causing charging of the one user's vehicle to wait in the time bands, and providing an incentive to the one user, wherein the operations include changing content of the incentive in accordance with a means of transportation of the one user on the next day. the operations include determining whether the one of the plurality of users will avoid using the relevant vehicle on the next day, based on a schedule of the one user on the next day. the operations include determining whether the one of the plurality of users will avoid using the relevant vehicle on the next day, based on input information related to a means of transportation of the one user on the next day.

9. The program according to claim 8, wherein, the operations include setting the incentive available in a game related to the means of transportation.

10. The program according to claim 8 or 9, wherein, the operations include setting a game event related to the means of transportation.

11. The program according to claim 8, wherein, the control section predicts required amounts of electric power for charging of vehicles used by a plurality of users respectively, and determines time bands in which the required amounts of electric power exceed a threshold value, and when the control section determines that one of the plurality of users will avoid using a relevant vehicle on the next day, causes charging of the one user's vehicle to wait in the time bands, and provides an incentive to the one user, 12. The program according to claim 10, wherein, wherein the control section changes content of the incentive in accordance with a means of transportation of the one user on the next day.

13. A vehicle comprising a control portion, wherein, the control section determines whether the one of the plurality of users will avoid using the relevant vehicle on the next day, based on a schedule of the one user on the next day. ​ 14. The vehicle of claim 13, wherein, ​ 15. The vehicle of claim 13 or 14, wherein, The control section determines whether the one user will avoid using the relevant vehicle on the next day based on input information related to the vehicle of the one user on the next day.

16. The vehicle of claim 13, wherein, The control section sets an incentive available in a game related to the vehicle.

17. The vehicle of claim 15, wherein, The control section sets a game event related to the vehicle.

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