Information processing device, information processing method and storage medium

Abstract

An information processing apparatus, an information processing method, and a storage medium are provided. The information processing apparatus includes a control unit that performs: charging time required to obtain a first charge level of a battery for operating a predetermined device using multiple charging methods; and notifying the predetermined device of the respective charging times obtained by the multiple charging methods.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to information processing apparatus, information processing method, and storage medium. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, various devices that utilize batteries to operate in mobile vehicles such as electric vehicles or portable information devices are widely used. For example, Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2011-215059 describes a control device that searches for high-speed charging facilities with relatively high charging speeds and low-speed charging facilities with relatively low charging speeds within a driving range where the remaining battery power can be used for driving. It estimates the remaining battery power when driving to a high-speed charging facility, and the smaller the estimated remaining battery power, the greater the range at which low-speed charging facilities around the high-speed charging facility are not displayed. Summary of the Invention

[0003] One aspect of this disclosure is that it enables users of battery-equipped devices to confirm the differences in charging time caused by using different charging methods, thus allowing for flexible selection of charging methods.

[0004] The first technical solution of the disclosed embodiment is exemplified by an information processing apparatus. This information processing apparatus includes a control unit that performs: charging time required to charge a battery to a first charge level for operating a predetermined device using multiple charging methods; and notifying the predetermined device of each of the charging times obtained by the multiple charging methods.

[0005] Other technical solutions of the disclosed embodiments are illustrated by the information processing method. In this information processing method, a computer performs: charging time required to obtain a first charge level of a battery for operating a predetermined device using multiple charging methods; and notifies the predetermined device of the respective charging times obtained by the multiple charging methods.

[0006] Another technical solution of the disclosed embodiments is illustrated by a storage medium. This storage medium stores a program that causes a computer to execute: the charging time required to obtain a first charge level of a battery for operating a predetermined device using multiple charging methods; and notifying the predetermined device of the respective charging times obtained by the multiple charging methods.

[0007] According to this information processing device, users of devices equipped with batteries can confirm the differences in charging time caused by using different charging methods, and can flexibly choose the charging method. Attached Figure Description

[0008] 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, wherein like reference numerals denote like elements, and wherein:

[0009] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the information system according to the first embodiment.

[0010] Figure 2 This is a diagram illustrating the charging characteristics of a battery that enables a portable electronic device to operate.

[0011] Figure 3 This is a graph illustrating the power consumption characteristics of a portable electronic device.

[0012] Figure 4 This is an example of a user's schedule management information.

[0013] Figure 5 This is an example of a charging location management table.

[0014] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating the calculation process of battery charging time performed by a computer.

[0015] Figure 7 This is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the information system according to the second embodiment.

[0016] Figure 8 This is an example of the user's schedule management information in the second implementation method.

[0017] Figure 9 This is an example of the operation schedule information for a mobile entity. Detailed Implementation

[0018] Hereinafter, the information processing apparatus, information processing method, and information system according to embodiments will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. This information processing apparatus includes a control unit that performs the following processing: determining the charging time required to obtain a first charge level of a battery for operating a predetermined device using multiple charging methods; and notifying the predetermined device of the respective charging times obtained by the multiple charging methods.

[0019] Here, the term "predetermined device" is not limited to any device or equipment that operates using a battery. The battery is a rechargeable secondary battery or a rechargeable battery. A battery is also called a storage battery. The first charge required for the battery refers to the charge required to ensure the remaining battery capacity, which is the amount of battery capacity needed to provide functionality to the user by the end of the first time period. For example, it is desirable to charge the device with the first charge within the first time period to a level that does not affect the planned use of the device or the user's planned actions, thus providing the necessary electrical power to provide functionality. Furthermore, the first time period is, for example, the elapsed time from the present until a date or time (a charging opportunity) when the next charging can be carried out.

[0020] Furthermore, multiple charging methods refer to charging methods implemented using various charging devices or apparatuses applicable to a predetermined device. As charging methods, examples can be categorized as normal charging or fast charging, depending on the difference in charging speed. However, depending on the difference in charging voltage or charging current, multiple charging methods or standards may exist in both normal charging and fast charging.

[0021] <First Embodiment> (System Configuration)

[0022] Figure 1 This diagram illustrates the configuration of the information system 101 according to this embodiment. The information system 101 includes a computer 10 and a portable electronic device 2A. The computer 10 is also referred to as a server. The portable electronic device 2A is exemplified by a terminal capable of wireless communication. The computer 10 includes a CPU 11, a main storage unit 12, and external devices connected via an interface (I / F), and performs information processing through computer programs. The CPU 11 is also referred to as a processor. The CPU 11 is not limited to a single processor and may be a multi-processor architecture. Furthermore, the CPU 11 may include a graphics processing unit (GPU), a digital signal processor (DSP), etc. Additionally, the CPU 11 may cooperate with hardware circuitry such as a field-programmable gate array (FPGA). External devices may include an external storage unit 13, a display unit 14, an operation unit 15, and a communication unit 16.

[0023] CPU 11 executes computer programs deployed to main storage unit 12 in an executable manner, providing the functions of computer 10. Main storage unit 12 stores the computer programs executed by CPU 11, data processed by CPU 11, etc. Main storage unit 12 may be Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM), Static Random Access Memory (SRAM), Read-Only Memory (ROM), etc. Furthermore, external storage unit 13 may be used as a supplementary storage area to main storage unit 12, storing computer programs executed by CPU 11, data processed by CPU 11, etc. External storage unit 13 may be a hard disk drive, Solid State Drive (SSD), etc. Furthermore, computer 10 may also be equipped with a drive for removable storage media. Removable storage media may include, for example, Blu-ray discs, Digital Versatile Discs (DVDs), Compact Discs (CDs), flash memory cards, etc.

[0024] In addition, the computer 10 includes a display unit 14, an operation unit 15, and a communication unit 16. The display unit 14 is, for example, a liquid crystal display or an electroluminescent panel. The operation unit 15 is, for example, a keyboard or a pointing device. In this embodiment, a mouse can be used as a pointing device. The communication unit 16 exchanges data with other devices on the network. For example, the communication unit 16 communicates with the portable electronic device 2A via network N2. Network N2 includes wired networks and wireless networks. Wired networks are also known as core networks or backbone networks, and are broadband networks exemplified by fiber optic networks. Wireless networks include mobile phone networks exemplified by Long Term Evolution (LTE), 5G, and 6G.

[0025] The portable electronic device 2A has the same configuration as the computer 10. However, the portable electronic device 2A has a touch panel with a touch sensor superimposed on the display as an operating unit. The portable electronic device 2A has a built-in battery and operates using the energy (electricity, charge) stored in the battery. Various devices can be used as chargers for charging the battery. In this embodiment, chargers for normal charging and chargers for fast charging can be exemplified. However, the charger is not limited to these two types. The user of the portable electronic device 2A accesses the computer 10 from the portable electronic device 2A, thereby receiving various services from the computer 10. Hereinafter, in all embodiments following this embodiment, the actions of the portable electronic device 2A corresponding to the user's operation will only be described as actions of the portable electronic device 2A. For example, the portable electronic device 2A requests information from the computer 10 about charging locations where the battery can be charged near the current location.

[0026] The portable electronic device 2A can also display the current location and current battery level when requesting charging location information from the computer 10. Alternatively, it can display the target charge amount desired before the next charging opportunity, along with the battery level. However, instead of the target charge amount, the portable electronic device 2A can display the schedule of processes to be performed up to the time when the next charging opportunity can be carried out. However, the computer 10 can also obtain the schedule of processes to be performed up to the next charging opportunity from a user's schedule management database managed on the computer 10.

[0027] Computer 10 assists with the charging of the battery of portable electronic device 2A and the user's use of portable electronic device 2A. For example, computer 10 receives requests for charging location information from portable electronic device 2A. Computer 10 may also receive the current location of portable electronic device 2A, the current remaining battery level, and the target charging amount along with the request for charging location information. In addition, computer 10 may also access a schedule management database provided to the user through portable electronic device 2A to obtain the user's scheduled actions.

[0028] The schedule management database can also be stored in the main storage unit 12 and the external storage unit 13 of the computer 10. The portable electronic device 2A accesses the computer 10 via the network N2 to provide the user with the function of accessing the schedule management database. However, the schedule management database can also be stored on the portable electronic device 2A. When stored on the portable electronic device 2A, the computer 10 can collect information from the schedule management database from the portable electronic device 2A with the user's consent. Alternatively, the schedule management database can also be stored on other computers accessible to the computer 10.

[0029] Furthermore, the schedule management database can pre-set time periods during which the user will not use the portable electronic device 2A or during which the user will use it. These time periods can also be set by the user. Alternatively, the portable electronic device 2A or computer 10 can statistically process the user's past operation history and select weeks and time periods when the portable electronic device 2A is highly likely to be inactive. The portable electronic device 2A or computer 10 can also display the selected week and time period on the portable electronic device 2A's screen, requiring prior confirmation. Furthermore, the computer 10 can also use the weeks and time periods when the portable electronic device 2A is highly likely to be inactive as the date and time for recharging (the next charging opportunity).

[0030] Furthermore, the computer 10 calculates the charging time for both normal charging and fast charging based on the current remaining battery level and target charging amount of the portable electronic device 2A. Additionally, the computer 10 retrieves charging locations near the current location of the portable electronic device 2A and the charging methods available at those locations from a database. The computer 10 then informs the portable electronic device 2A of the charging time for both normal and fast charging, the location of the charging location, and the available charging methods.

[0031] (Data Example)

[0032] Hereinafter, various types of data used by computer 10 during calculations are illustrated. This data, for example, is stored in a database. The database in this embodiment may also be stored in the main storage unit 12 and the external storage unit 13 of computer 10. Alternatively, the database may be stored on another computer accessible to computer 10.

[0033] Figure 2This is a diagram illustrating the charging characteristics of the battery used by the computer 10 during computation. In this embodiment, the battery charging characteristics are defined, for example, according to the type of portable electronic device 2A. The computer 10 records the battery charging characteristics in a database according to the type of portable electronic device 2A. Figure 2 This example illustrates the charging characteristics of the battery in smartphone type 1. Figure 2 In the examples, normal charging and fast charging are shown as charging methods. Additionally, in... Figure 2 In the example, charging speeds are defined by dividing charging into constant current and constant voltage regions, respectively, for both normal charging and fast charging. Computer 10 references examples from a database. Figure 2 The charging characteristics are calculated based on the model, showing the charging time to the target charge level.

[0034] For example, under normal charging conditions, the range of 0% to 70% in the State of Charge (SOC) is a constant current region. In the constant current region, charging is performed with a constant current, and the charging rate is, for example, 60% / hour. Therefore, it is possible to charge from 0% to 60% in one hour. Additionally, under normal charging conditions, the range of 70% to 100% in the SOC is a constant voltage region. Furthermore, in the constant voltage region, charging is performed with a constant voltage. In the constant voltage region, the charging rate gradually decreases; therefore, an approximate charging rate is given as an example. An approximate charging rate is, for example, approximately 50% / hour.

[0035] Furthermore, during high-speed charging, the range of 0% to 60% of the State of Charge (SOC) is a constant current region. Within this constant current region of high-speed charging, the charging rate is, for example, 180% / hour. Therefore, it is possible, for example, to charge from 0% to 60% in 20 minutes. Additionally, in this example, the range of 60% to 100% is a constant voltage region. In this example, even during high-speed charging, within the constant voltage region, the charging rate is approximately 50% / hour.

[0036] Figure 3 This is a diagram illustrating the power consumption characteristics of a portable electronic device 2A. The computer 10 records the power consumption characteristics in a database according to the model of the portable electronic device 2A. Figure 3 The power consumption characteristics of smartphone type 1 are shown as an example. However, the computer 10 may also record power consumption characteristics by manufacturer of portable electronic device 2A or by product series of a manufacturer, instead of by device type. For example, LTE-compatible products, 5G-compatible products, or 6G-compatible products could be cited as product series of a manufacturer. However, the computer 10 may also obtain and maintain the average power consumption of portable electronic device 2A from various manufacturers.

[0037] exist Figure 3In this process, computer 10 maintains power consumption characteristics based on the change in SOC every hour, according to processing such as wireless communication, wireless standby, screen display, dynamic image display, and screen saver. However, computer 10 can also obtain and maintain the average power consumption during the average operation of portable electronic device 2A, independent of processing. Figure 3 The average power consumption). Average operation can be obtained, for example, by statistically processing the usage results of the portable electronic device 2A by one or more users. Alternatively, the computer 10 can record the general average power consumption of the portable electronic device 2A regardless of the manufacturer and model, and use it in the calculations of this embodiment.

[0038] Figure 4 This is an example of a user's schedule management information. Figure 4 The example illustrates schedule management information for each time slot within a specific hour on a particular date. Schedule management information includes the user's planned actions. These planned actions include, for example, web meetings, business trips, and outings. Additionally, schedule management information may also include the user's location (…). Figure 4 (The location). The user's location, such as their own seat, or Company A, the destination of a business trip.

[0039] Figure 5 This is an example of a charging location management table. Computer 10 maintains the charging location management table in a database. Each row in the charging location management table is a record. Each record in the charging location management table includes elements such as charging category, charging location name, latitude, longitude, address, and telephone number.

[0040] The charging category refers to the charging method that can be used at that charging location. Figure 5 Examples of normal charging and fast charging are shown. The charging category may also include detailed information. For example, the charging category may also include the charging category corresponding to the chargers of various manufacturers and products of the portable electronic device 2A.

[0041] A charging location name is the name of the charging location, a name that the user can recognize. Latitude and longitude are used to determine the location on the map. An address is the physical address of the location that the user can recognize. However, an address can also be information associated with latitude and longitude in a map database, capable of being converted between latitude and longitude.

[0042] (Processing Example)

[0043] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating the battery charging time calculation process performed by computer 10. The CPU 11 of computer 10 executes the program, which is expanded to the main memory 12 in an executable manner. Figure 6The process involves the computer 10 receiving a request for information about the charging location from the portable electronic device 2A (S1). The computer 10 obtains the current state of charge (SOC) of the battery along with the request for information. The current state of charge (SOC) of the battery can also be referred to as the remaining battery charge or charge level. At this time, the computer 10 may also obtain the required charge level. The required charge level is the electrical power needed for the portable electronic device 2A to operate during the period until the next charging opportunity. The required charge level can be specified, for example, by the state of charge (SOC) of the battery after charging. In addition, the required charge level can also be referred to as the target charge level. Furthermore, in the process of S1, it is envisioned that when the portable electronic device 2A sends a request for information about the charging location to the computer 10, the user is in a charging opportunity where the battery of the portable electronic device 2A can be charged.

[0044] Furthermore, the computer 10 determines whether the request from the portable electronic device 2A specifies a required charging amount (S2). If the request from the portable electronic device 2A specifies a required charging amount (S2: Yes), the computer 10 accepts the specified required charging amount (S3). On the other hand, if no required charging amount is specified (S2: No), the computer 10 calculates the required power consumption based on the user's schedule management information in the user's schedule management database. The computer 10 may also determine, based on the user's schedule management information, that charging is not possible during scheduled times that include leaving one's seat. Additionally, the computer 10 may determine, based on the user's schedule management information, that charging is not possible during business trips and during travel accompanying business trips. On the other hand, the computer 10 may determine, based on the user's schedule management information, that charging is possible during periods when the user's location is their seat or home. Additionally, the computer 10 may determine, based on the user's schedule management information, that charging is possible during rest periods or free time. Furthermore, the computer 10 calculates the time from the predetermined time of leaving its seat, the predetermined time of starting a business trip and moving with the business trip, to the time of returning to its seat or home, the start time of free time, and the start time of rest time (hereinafter referred to as the device operating time). Here, the time of returning to its seat or home, the start time of free time, and the start time of rest time become the next charging opportunity.

[0045] Then, the computer 10 calculates the predicted power consumption based on the device's operating time (S4). The computer 10 can calculate the predicted power consumption based on the average power consumption, regardless of the model of the portable electronic device 2A. However, if the computer 10 can obtain the model of the portable electronic device 2A from a request from the portable electronic device 2A, it can also use the average power consumption of that model to calculate the predicted power consumption. Additionally, if the computer 10 can obtain the information processing category of the portable electronic device 2A from the user's schedule management information, it can also calculate the predicted power consumption based on... Figure 3 The power consumption characteristics of the illustrated portable electronic device 2A are used to calculate the predicted power consumption. For example, in the case of implementing 5 hours of wireless standby (5% / hour), 1 hour of screen display (15% / hour), and 4 hours of screen saver processing (3% / hour) during a 5-hour business trip and travel, the calculation is performed as follows.

[0046] Predicted power consumption = 5% × 5 + 15% × 1 + 3% × 4 = 52%;

[0047] Computer 10 uses the calculated predicted power consumption up to the next charging opportunity as the required charging amount to perform the following processing. Furthermore, for each scheduled activity (business trip, travel, etc.) in the user's schedule management information, the category of information processing performed by the portable electronic device 2A can be obtained, for example, by statistical processing of empirical values. For instance, computer 10 can compare the records in the log file recording the processing of the portable electronic device 2A with the user's schedule management information. Through this comparison, computer 10 can estimate what kind of processing was performed in what proportion in the past for each scheduled activity (business trip, travel, etc.) in the user's schedule management information. The required charging amount obtained through the above processing can be referred to as the battery power that the portable electronic device 2A is scheduled to consume during its operation over the scheduled time.

[0048] Next, the computer 10 calculates the normal charging time and fast charging time (S5) based on the current state of charge of the battery and the amount of charge required. That is, when both the state of charge of the battery and the amount of charge required are in the constant current region, the charging speed in the constant current region is used to perform the following calculations.

[0049] Normal charging time TA = (Amount required for charging - Current state of charge of the battery) / Charging speed in the constant current region of normal charging;

[0050] Fast charging time TB = (Amount required - Current state of charge of the battery) / Charging speed in the constant current region of fast charging;

[0051] On the other hand, when the current state of battery charging is in the constant current region and the required charge is in the constant voltage region, the computer 10 calculates the charging time in both the constant current and constant voltage regions. First, the charging time in the constant current region is as follows.

[0052] Normal charging time TA1 = (SOC value distinguishing between constant current region and constant voltage region - current battery charging state) / charging speed of constant current region in normal charging;

[0053] Fast charging time TB1 = (SOC value distinguishing between constant current and constant voltage regions - current battery state of charge) / charging speed of the constant current region during fast charging;

[0054] Next, the charging time in the constant voltage region is as follows.

[0055] Normal charging time TA2 = (Required charging amount - SOC value distinguishing constant current region and constant voltage region) / charging speed of constant voltage region in normal charging;

[0056] Fast charging time TB2 = (Required charging amount - SOC value distinguishing constant current region and constant voltage region) / charging speed of constant voltage region in fast charging;

[0057] Normal charging time = TA1 + TA2;

[0058] Fast charging time = TB1 + TB2;

[0059] Furthermore, when both the battery's state of charge and the required amount of charge are in a constant voltage region, the computer 10 uses the charging speed of the constant voltage region to perform the following calculations.

[0060] Normal charging time TA = (Amount required for charging - Current state of charge of the battery) / Charging speed in the constant voltage region of normal charging;

[0061] Fast charging time TB = (Amount required - Current state of charge of the battery) / Charging speed in the constant voltage region of fast charging;

[0062] Furthermore, in the above calculation, the required charge amount—the current state of charge of the battery—is referred to as the first charge amount. The first charge amount is the difference between the battery power to be consumed during a predetermined working time and the current state of charge of the battery (remaining battery charge). Therefore, the process of S1 can be considered an example of specifying the battery power to be consumed or the first charge amount in the portable electronic device 2A. Additionally, the computer 10 can obtain the first charge amount in the process of S5 based on the current remaining battery charge and the battery power to be consumed by the portable electronic device 2A during a predetermined working time. Furthermore, the process of S5 can be considered an example of the charging time required to obtain the first charge amount of the battery that enables the portable electronic device 2A to operate using multiple charging methods.

[0063] Next, computer 10 retrieves the charging location management table (refer to...) Figure 5 (S6) The computer 10 retrieves charging locations near the current location of the portable electronic device 2A. Furthermore, the computer 10 sends information to the portable electronic device 2A regarding the required charge amount, the charging time for each charging method, and the charging locations where each charging method can be used, and displays this information on the display (S7). Through the processing in S7, the computer 10 displays information about charging locations that can be used for multiple charging methods on the portable electronic device 2A. In other words, the processing in S7 can be described as an example of outputting information about a first location that can be charged using the first charging method and a second location that can be charged using the second charging method, existing in the vicinity of the portable electronic device 2A. Additionally, the processing in S7 can be described as an example of notifying the portable electronic device 2A, which is a predetermined device, of the various charging times obtained for multiple charging methods.

[0064] (Effects of the first embodiment)

[0065] As described above, the computer 10 of this embodiment obtains the amount of charge required to operate the portable electronic device 2A during the period until the next charging opportunity. Furthermore, the computer 10 calculates the charging time required to charge the portable electronic device 2A from its current charge level, under both normal charging and fast charging conditions. The computer 10 then displays information about the required charge level, the charging time for each charging method, and the charging location where each charging method can be performed on the display of the portable electronic device 2A. Therefore, the user of the portable electronic device 2A can identify the time required to charge the portable electronic device 2A to the required charge level and the charging location where such charging can be performed, based on multiple charging methods. Thus, the user of the portable electronic device 2A can obtain information for determining the appropriate charging method anytime and anywhere. In other words, the user of the portable electronic device 2A can confirm the charging time for each charging method and can flexibly select a charging method.

[0066] Computer 10 executes the aforementioned processing upon request from portable electronic device 2A. Therefore, the user of portable electronic device 2A can obtain information for determining the appropriate charging method at a desired time. Furthermore, computer 10 can accurately determine the charging time for multiple charging methods based on the current battery state of charge and the required charging amount. Computer 10 calculates the electrical power (power consumption required) of portable electronic device 2A when it reaches its next charging opportunity as the required charging amount. Therefore, the user of portable electronic device 2A can obtain an appropriate charging opportunity before the battery becomes low on power. Further, computer 10 provides portable electronic device 2A with information on charging locations corresponding to each of the multiple charging methods, so the user can obtain information on the charging location corresponding to the calculated charging time at an appropriate timing.

[0067] (Modified Example)

[0068] In this embodiment, the computer 10, upon receiving a request from the portable electronic device 2A, notifies the portable electronic device 2A of the required charge amount, the charging time for each charging method, and the charging location where charging can be performed under each charging method, and displays this information on the display of the portable electronic device 2A. However, the portable electronic device 2A may also perform this calculation and display process. Alternatively, the portable electronic device 2A may maintain the battery's charging characteristics (…). Figure 2 ), power consumption characteristics Figure 3 Schedule management information Figure 4 Furthermore, the portable electronic device 2A responds to requests from the user and performs actions related to... Figure 6 The same procedure can be followed.

[0069] <Second Implementation>

[0070] In the first embodiment, the charging time for both normal charging and fast charging was calculated for the battery that enables the portable electronic device 2A to operate. The processing described in the first embodiment can also be applied to the battery mounted on the mobile device. Figure 7 This is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the information system 102 according to the second embodiment. The information system 102 includes a computer 10 and a mobile body 2B. The configuration of the computer 10 is the same as that in the first embodiment, therefore, its description is omitted.

[0071] The mobile body 2B is, for example, a vehicle. A vehicle can have four wheels, three wheels, or two wheels. A vehicle can be driven by an engine or a motor. A vehicle can also be equipped with an autonomous driving system capable of autonomous or automatic driving.

[0072] like Figure 1 As shown, the mobile unit 2B has a data communication module (DCM) 21 and an electronic control unit (ECU) 22. The DCM 21 accesses the network N2 and communicates with other mobile units, the computer 10, etc. The DCM 21 is capable of wireless communication via the mobile communication network. The network N2 is the same as in the first embodiment, therefore its description is omitted.

[0073] ECU 22 manages the various devices within the mobile unit 2B. ECU 22 includes... Figure 1 The CPU 11 and main storage unit 12 of the illustrated computer 10 have the same configuration. The ECU 22, for example, has a processor and a memory. The processor executes a computer program in the memory, performing processing as the ECU 22. The ECU 22 accesses the computer 10 via the DCM 21, providing various functions to the user of the mobile body 2B. For example, the ECU 22 requests charging location information near the current location of the mobile body 2B from the computer 10. Similar to the portable electronic device 2A of the first embodiment, when requesting charging location information from the computer 10, the ECU 22 may also display the current location and the current remaining battery level. Alternatively, along with the remaining battery level, it may display the target charging amount desired before the next charging opportunity. However, instead of the target charging amount, the ECU 22 may display the schedule of processing to be performed up to the next charging opportunity. However, the computer 10 may also obtain the schedule of processing to be performed up to the next charging opportunity from a user schedule database managed on the computer 10. The ECU 22 is an example of a computer mounted in a vehicle.

[0074] Figure 8 This is an example of the user's schedule management information in the second implementation method. Figure 8 The example is also similar to the first embodiment. Figure 4 Similarly, the schedule management information for a specific date and time period is illustrated, divided into hourly segments. The schedule management information includes pre-planned actions scheduled by the user. Pre-planned actions include, for example, "office work," "field work," "rest," and "off work." If the schedule management information indicates "field work," the computer 10 can determine that there is no opportunity to recharge until the next "office work," "rest," or "off work" time period.

[0075] Figure 9 This is an example of the operational schedule information for mobile unit 2B. For computer 10, besides the mobile unit ID field in the operational schedule information for mobile unit 2B, it also has... Figure 8Yes, it is the same. The schedule was created based on mobile unit 2B. Therefore, Figure 9 The operational schedule includes a mobile entity ID used to identify mobile entity 2B. Additionally, in Figure 9 In the example, the schedule is created on a daily basis, therefore including the year, month, and day. Furthermore, in Figure 9 In the example, the operation schedule specifies the scheduled operation and maintenance of mobile body 2B for each time period.

[0076] For example, on the date DDMMMYYYY, maintenance is performed on mobile unit 2B between 0:00 and 9:00. Maintenance includes charging the battery and updating the computer program for mobile unit ID: E-PALETTEEV1. Mobile unit ID: E-PALETTEEV1 operates from 9:00 to 11:00. Mobile unit ID: E-PALETTEEV1 stops operating between 11:00 and 13:00, entering maintenance mode, and the battery is charged. Mobile unit ID: E-PALETTEEV1 operates from 13:00 to 23:00, and stops operating after 23:00, entering maintenance mode. Furthermore, in Figure 9 The example omits details of the scheduled maintenance and operation between 13:00 and 22:00. The computer 10 can determine that there is no opportunity to charge before the next "maintenance" period if the mobile unit 2B's operation schedule is, for example, "operation".

[0077] In the second embodiment, the computer 10 can also, in response to requests for charging location information from the ECU 22 of the mobile body 2B, provide information on the charging time up to the target charging amount (i.e., the required charging amount) and charging locations where the charging method can be used, for different charging methods. The processing of providing charging location information and... Figure 6 The situation is the same. Here, refer to... Figure 6 This describes the processing of information regarding the charging location for mobile body 2B.

[0078] (Processing Example)

[0079] In this process, computer 10 receives a request for information about the charging location from ECU 22 of mobile body 2B (S1). Computer 10 obtains the current state of charge (SOC) of the battery along with the information request.

[0080] At this time, computer 10 can also obtain the required charging amount. The required charging amount is the electrical power needed for the operation of mobile body 2B during the period from now until the next charging opportunity. The required charging amount can be specified, for example, by the state of charge (SOC) of the battery after charging. That is, computer 10 determines whether the request from mobile body 2B has a specified required charging amount (S2).

[0081] If the request from mobile device 2B specifies a required charging amount (S2: Yes), computer 10 accepts the specified charging amount (S3). On the other hand, if no charging amount is specified (S2: No), computer 10 calculates the required power consumption based on the user's schedule management information or the mobile device 2B's operating schedule. Computer 10 may also determine that charging is not possible during "fieldwork" time based on the user's schedule management information. Alternatively, computer 10 can determine that charging is not possible if the mobile device 2B's operating schedule is "running." Furthermore, computer 10 calculates the user's "fieldwork" time or the mobile device 2B's "running" time, i.e., the device's operating time.

[0082] Then, the computer 10 calculates the required power consumption based on the device's operating time (S4). The computer 10 can calculate the required power consumption based on the average power consumption, which is independent of the type of mobile unit 2B. However, if the computer 10 can obtain the type of mobile unit 2B from the request from the mobile unit 2B, it can also use the average power consumption of that type to calculate the required power consumption.

[0083] Next, the computer 10 calculates the normal charging time and fast charging time (S5) based on the current state of charge of the battery and the amount of charge required. The calculation method for the normal charging time and fast charging time is the same as in the first embodiment, so its details are omitted.

[0084] Next, computer 10 retrieves charging locations near the current location of mobile body 2B from the charging location management table (S6). Here, the structure of the charging location management table differs between the charging of mobile body 2B and portable electronic device 2A, but is similar to... Figure 5 Similarly, the computer 10 sends the required amount of charge, the charging time for each charging method, and the charging location where each charging method can be performed to the mobile body 2B, and displays this information on the display of the vehicle-mounted device (S7).

[0085] (Effects of the second implementation method)

[0086] As described above, the computer 10 of this embodiment obtains the required charge amount to maintain the operation of the mobile unit 2B until the next charging opportunity. Furthermore, the computer 10 calculates the charging time for charging the mobile unit 2B to the required charge amount from its current charge level in both normal and fast charging scenarios. The computer 10 then notifies the vehicle-mounted device equipped with the mobile unit 2B of the required charge amount, the charging time for each charging method, and the charging location where each charging method can be performed, and displays this information on the vehicle-mounted device's display. Therefore, the user of the mobile unit 2B can identify the time required to charge the mobile unit 2B to the required charge amount and the charging location where such charging can be performed, regardless of the charging method. Thus, the user of the mobile unit 2B in the second embodiment, like the user of the portable electronic device 2A in the first embodiment, can obtain information for determining the appropriate charging method anytime and anywhere. That is, the user of the mobile unit 2B can confirm the charging time for each charging method and can flexibly select a charging method.

[0087] (Modified Example)

[0088] In this embodiment, the computer 10 calculates the required charging amount and the charging time for each charging method based on a request from the ECU 22 of the mobile body 2B. Furthermore, the computer 10 displays the calculation results and the charging locations where each charging method can be performed on the display of the vehicle-mounted device of the mobile body 2B. However, this processing may also be performed by the ECU 22 of the mobile body 2B. Alternatively, the ECU 22 of the mobile body 2B may maintain the battery's charging characteristics (…). Figure 2 This includes power consumption characteristics (i.e., power consumption per hour of operation) and schedule management information. Furthermore, the ECU22 of the mobile unit 2B responds to requests from the user to perform tasks related to… Figure 6 The same procedure can be followed.

[0089] <Other Implementation Methods>

[0090] The above-described implementation is merely an example, and this disclosure can be adapted and implemented in a suitable manner without departing from its spirit. Furthermore, the processes and units described in this disclosure can be freely combined and implemented as long as they do not create technical contradictions.

[0091] Furthermore, a process described as a single device can be performed by multiple devices. Alternatively, a process described as different devices can be performed by a single device. In a computer system, the hardware architecture (server architecture) used to implement each function can be flexibly changed.

[0092] This disclosure can also be implemented by providing a computer with a computer program that has the functions described in the above embodiments installed, and having one or more processors in 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 that can be connected 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 floppy disk (floppy disk, hard disk drive (HDD), etc.), an optical disk (CD-ROM, DVD, Blu-ray disc, etc.), a read-only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), an EPROM, an EEPROM, a magnetic card, a flash memory, or an optical card—any type of medium suitable for storing electronic commands.

Claims

1. An information processing apparatus comprising a control unit, wherein the control unit performs: Accepts the designation of the current remaining amount of the battery that enables the predetermined device to operate; The predetermined power of the battery is determined by the predetermined device based on the user's specification for the predetermined device to consume a predetermined amount of power during operation over a predetermined period of time. The first charge is calculated based on the difference between the battery's power consumption during the specified predetermined working time and the current remaining amount of the specified battery. The charging time required to charge the first amount of charge is calculated using multiple charging methods; and The predetermined device is notified of the respective charging times obtained by the plurality of charging methods.

2. The information processing device according to claim 1, The control unit also performs the following: notifying the predetermined device of information about a first location that can be charged by the first charging method and a second location that can be charged by the second charging method, which exist in the vicinity of the predetermined device.

3. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, The predetermined device is a portable terminal. The information processing device is a server that communicates with the terminal. The control unit sends the obtained charging time to the terminal.

4. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, The predetermined device and the information processing device are the same portable terminal.

5. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, The predetermined device is a vehicle capable of autonomous driving. The information processing device is a server that communicates with the vehicle. The control unit sends the obtained charging time to the vehicle.

6. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, The predetermined device is a vehicle capable of autonomous driving. The information processing device is a computer mounted on the vehicle.

7. An information processing method, which is a computer performing the following processing, said processing including: Accepts the designation of the current remaining amount of the battery that enables the predetermined device to operate; The predetermined power of the battery is determined by the predetermined device based on the user's specification for the predetermined device to consume a predetermined amount of power during operation over a predetermined period of time. The first charge is calculated based on the difference between the battery's power consumption during the specified predetermined working time and the current remaining amount of the specified battery. The charging time required to charge the first amount of charge is calculated using multiple charging methods; and The predetermined device is notified of the respective charging times obtained by the plurality of charging methods.

8. The information processing method according to claim 7, The computer also performs the following: notifying the predetermined device of information about a first location that can be charged by the first charging method and a second location that can be charged by the second charging method, which exist in the vicinity of the predetermined device.

9. A storage medium for storing a program, said program being executed by a computer: Accepts the designation of the current remaining amount of the battery that enables the predetermined device to operate; The predetermined power of the battery is determined by the predetermined device based on the user's specification for the predetermined device to consume a predetermined amount of power during operation over a predetermined period of time. The first charge is calculated based on the difference between the battery's power consumption during the specified predetermined working time and the current remaining amount of the specified battery. The charging time required to charge the first amount of charge is calculated using multiple charging methods; and The predetermined device is notified of the respective charging times obtained by the plurality of charging methods.

10. The storage medium according to claim 9, The computer also performs the following: notifies the predetermined device of information about a first location in the vicinity of the predetermined device that can be charged by the first charging method and a second location that can be charged by the second charging method.

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