Information processing device and information processing method

Abstract

The present invention discloses an information processing device and an information processing method. The device improves vehicle user convenience. Upon detecting a predetermined access point, the device establishes a wireless connection between the vehicle and the predetermined access point, suppressing wireless connection to the predetermined access point during at least a first period, from when the vehicle stops until a predetermined timer arrives.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to wireless communications. Background Art

[0002] Cars capable of wireless network connection are becoming increasingly common. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses an invention related to a vehicle that, upon detecting a predetermined access point, connects to a network via the access point.

[0003] Prior art literature

[0004] Patent Literature

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2020-522783 Summary of the Invention

[0006] An object of the present disclosure is to improve the convenience of a vehicle user.

[0007] One embodiment of the present disclosure is an information processing device that controls wireless communications performed by a vehicle. The information processing device includes a control unit that establishes a wireless connection with a predetermined access point upon detection of the predetermined access point, wherein the control unit suppresses wireless connection to the predetermined access point during at least a first period from when the vehicle stops until a predetermined timing arrives.

[0008] One aspect of an embodiment of the present disclosure is an information processing device for controlling wireless communications performed by a vehicle, the information processing device including a control unit for establishing a wireless connection with any one of a plurality of access points upon detection of the access point, the control unit suppressing wireless connection to a first access point included in the plurality of access points during a first period from a first timing at which a first access point included in the plurality of access points is detected to a predetermined second timing at which the first access point is detected.

[0009] One embodiment of the present disclosure is an information processing method performed by an information processing device that controls wireless communications performed by a vehicle, the method comprising: upon detecting a predetermined access point, establishing a wireless connection with the predetermined access point; and suppressing the wireless connection to the predetermined access point during at least a first period from when the vehicle stops until a predetermined timing arrives.

[0010] Furthermore, another aspect of the present disclosure is a program for causing a computer to execute the above-described information processing method, or a computer-readable storage medium storing the program non-temporarily.

[0011] According to the present disclosure, the convenience of the vehicle user can be improved. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] Figure 1This is a schematic diagram of a vehicle system according to the first embodiment.

[0013] Figure 2 This is a diagram explaining switching of a connection destination.

[0014] Figure 3 It is a diagram for explaining components of the vehicle according to the first embodiment.

[0015] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram illustrating functional blocks included in the control unit 101 .

[0016] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram illustrating functional blocks included in the control unit 201 .

[0017] Figure 6 This is a diagram illustrating components included in a user terminal.

[0018] Figure 7 This is a data flow diagram when executing remote parking.

[0019] Figure 8 This is an example of a screen provided in a user terminal.

[0020] Figure 9 This is a flowchart of the remote parking process in the first embodiment.

[0021] Figure 10 This is a flowchart of the remote parking process in the second embodiment.

[0022] (Explanation of Symbols)

[0023] 10: Vehicle; 20: User terminal; 100: DCM; 200A: Parking ECU; 101, 201, 21: Control unit; 102, 202, 22: Storage unit; 103, 203, 23: Communication unit; 24: Input / output unit; 110: First communication module; 120: Second communication module; 130: GPS antenna; 140: GPS module. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0024] In recent years, cars capable of wireless internet connectivity have become increasingly common. Providing internet connectivity through in-vehicle devices can provide emergency driver support and safety-related services. Such devices are also known as data communication modules (DCMs).

[0025] Furthermore, there are known DCMs that can connect to a local network using not only cellular communication but also Wi-Fi (registered trademark) and other communication standards. By using such DCMs, a large amount of data such as map data and software used by vehicle-mounted terminals can be downloaded.

[0026] However, some DCMs can provide various functions by directly connecting to user terminals using Wi-Fi or other means. One such function is remote parking, which allows a vehicle to automatically park in a designated parking space via a user terminal.

[0027] For example, a vehicle user exits the vehicle, checks the surrounding area for safety, and then issues movement instructions via the user terminal. The vehicle determines a trajectory for parking into a designated parking space and, based on the movement instructions received from the user terminal, moves forward and backward at a slow speed while controlling the steering wheel. This makes parking easier.

[0028] Such a DCM is configured to switch between two modes: a mode for connecting to an access point and a mode for accepting connections from user terminals. However, if the mode is not selected appropriately, usability may be impaired.

[0029] For example, consider a scenario where a car owner has wirelessly established a home network at home and then returns to their vehicle. Upon detecting this home network, the DCM initiates a connection to the access point and begins communication as needed. Alternatively, upon arrival, the car owner may wish to connect their user terminal to the DCM to perform remote parking.

[0030] In such cases, the DCM must disconnect from the home network and reconnect to the user terminal. However, if the connection cannot be immediately terminated, such as when data download begins, then not immediately reconnecting to the user terminal will result in a waiting time. Furthermore, this may require retrying sequence processing and retrying connections, potentially increasing power consumption and reducing service responsiveness.

[0031] The information processing device according to the present disclosure solves the above-mentioned problems.

[0032] An information processing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is an information processing device for controlling wireless communications performed by a vehicle, and is characterized in that it includes a control unit for establishing a wireless connection with a predetermined access point when the predetermined access point is detected, and the control unit suppresses wireless connection to the predetermined access point during at least a first period from when the vehicle stops until a predetermined timing arrives.

[0033] The vehicle involved in the present disclosure performs wireless communication using wireless communication standards such as IEEE802.11, for example.

[0034] A predetermined access point is typically an access point available in a location where wireless connection requests from other terminals (such as user terminals) are likely to occur. When a vehicle is parked in such a location, the information processing device refrains from connecting to the access point until a predetermined time arrives. This allows wireless connection requests from other terminals to be accepted smoothly.

[0035] The first period is a period during which automatic connection to the access point is suppressed. The first period may start when the vehicle stops or before the vehicle stops. Furthermore, the first period may expire when the vehicle's remote parking control ends or when the wireless connection from the user terminal times out.

[0036] Remote parking control refers to a control that automatically controls the steering wheel of a vehicle to move the vehicle into a parking space.

[0037] In addition, an information processing device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is an information processing device that controls wireless communications performed by a vehicle, and is characterized by including a control unit that establishes a wireless connection with any one of a plurality of access points when the access point is detected, wherein the control unit suppresses wireless connection to the first access point during a first period from a first timing at which a first access point included in the plurality of access points is detected to the arrival of a predetermined second timing.

[0038] The first access point is typically an access point available in a location where there is a possibility of a wireless connection request from another terminal (user terminal, etc.) Upon detecting such an access point, the information processing device may suppress connection to the access point until a predetermined timing arrives.

[0039] The following describes specific embodiments of the present disclosure with reference to the accompanying drawings. Unless otherwise specified, the hardware configuration, module configuration, functional configuration, etc. described in each embodiment do not limit the technical scope of the disclosure to these gist.

[0040] (First embodiment)

[0041] Reference Figure 1 The vehicle system according to the first embodiment will be described in detail. The vehicle system according to the present embodiment includes a vehicle 10 and a user terminal 20 .

[0042] The vehicle 10 is a networked car that has a communication function with an external network. The vehicle 10 is configured to include a DCM (Data Communication Module) 100 and an Electronic Control Unit 200 (also called an ECU). Figure 1Although a single ECU 200 is illustrated in FIG. 1 , the vehicle 10 may include a plurality of ECUs 200 .

[0043] DCM 100 is a device that wirelessly communicates with an external network. DCM 100 functions as a gateway for connecting components in vehicle 10 (hereinafter referred to as "vehicle components") to the external network. For example, DCM 100 provides ECU 200 in vehicle 10 with access to the external network. This allows ECU 200 to communicate with external devices connected to the network via DCM 100.

[0044] The DCM 100 is configured to be able to communicate via a cellular communication network and a local network.

[0045] The cellular communication network is a communication network that utilizes a cellular network. The DCM 100 stores information related to cellular communication contracts, and upon detecting an available cellular communication network, it joins the cellular communication network.

[0046] A local network is a network that provides connectivity at a predetermined access point, such as a home network or a public wireless LAN network. For example, if a home network is used as the local network, the vehicle 10 can communicate within a predetermined range centered on the home. The DCM 100 stores information on multiple access points and connects to an available access point upon detecting it.

[0047] The user terminal 20 is a computer carried by a vehicle occupant. The user terminal 20 is a small computing device such as a smartphone, tablet computer, or wearable computer. In the vehicle system according to this embodiment, the user terminal 20 is wirelessly connected to the DCM 100 to provide a remote parking function.

[0048] Next, refer to Figure 2 Features of the DCM 100 in this embodiment will be described.

[0049] Here, it is assumed that a home network is built in the home of the owner of the vehicle 10. For example, when the vehicle 10 is in the owner's parking lot, the DCM 100 can connect to the external network via the home network. In this way, each component of the vehicle 10 can download data (such as music, video, email, traffic information, road map data, etc.) used while driving, update software, etc. ( Figure 2 (A)).

[0050] On the other hand, immediately after the vehicle 10 arrives at home, the remote parking function is executed, and therefore a connection request may be issued from the user terminal 20 to the DCM 100 .

[0051] However, if the DCM 100 mounted on the vehicle 10 is connected to the home network first, it cannot immediately respond to the connection request from the user terminal. For example, this is because it requires a process of (1) DCM 100 disconnecting from the home network in response to the connection request sent from the user terminal 20, and (2) DCM 100 accepting the connection from the user terminal 20. Figure 2 (B)) Furthermore, when the DCM 100 transmits and receives data via the home network, it may take a longer time to suspend the transmission and reception.

[0052] Therefore, the DCM 100 according to this embodiment shifts to a mode in which the automatic connection to the access point is suppressed and the connection from the user terminal 20 is awaited before the vehicle 10 arrives at the home. Figure 2 (C)) This mode is canceled when parking by remote parking is completed or when the connection wait time has timed out.

[0053] This allows the vehicle 10 to smoothly perform remote parking after arriving at home. A specific method will be described later.

[0054] Figure 3 1 and 2 are diagrams illustrating components of a vehicle 10 according to the present embodiment. The vehicle 10 according to the present embodiment includes a DCM 100 , a plurality of ECUs 200A, 200B, ... (hereinafter collectively referred to as ECUs 200 ), and a sensor group 300 .

[0055] The ECU 200 may include a plurality of ECUs that manage different vehicle components. Examples of the plurality of ECUs include a body ECU, an engine ECU, a hybrid ECU, and a powertrain ECU.

[0056] In the present embodiment, parking ECU 200A is exemplified as ECU 200 that provides the remote parking function.

[0057] The sensor group 300 includes a plurality of sensors (distance sensors, image sensors, etc.) used in the remote parking function. The plurality of sensors may be installed at a plurality of locations on the vehicle body.

[0058] The DCM 100 includes a first communication module 110 , a second communication module 120 , a GPS antenna 130 , a GPS module 140 , a control unit 101 , a storage unit 102 , and a communication unit 103 .

[0059] The first communication module 110 is a communication module that communicates with the outside world via cellular communication. The first communication module 110 is configured to include an antenna element that inputs and outputs wireless signals. In this embodiment, the antenna element is an element suitable for mobile communication (such as 3G, LTE, 5G, etc.).

[0060] The second communication module 120 is a communication module that communicates with the outside through a communication standard other than cellular communication. As examples of the communication standards that can be adopted by the second communication module 120, Wi-Fi, DSRC (Dedicated Short Range Communications), millimeter wave communications, etc. can be given. The second communication module 120 is similar to the first communication module and is configured to include an antenna element for inputting and outputting wireless signals. In addition, the antenna can also be configured to include multiple physical antennas. For example, in the case of communication using high-frequency radio waves such as microwaves or millimeter waves, in order to stabilize the communication, multiple antennas can also be dispersed.

[0061] In this embodiment, the second communication module 120 communicates using Wi-Fi.

[0062] The second communication module 120 is configured to operate in either a client mode, connecting to an access point, or a server mode, accepting connections from other devices. The former is referred to as client mode, and the latter is referred to as server mode. When operating in client mode, external networks can be accessed via the access point. Furthermore, when operating in server mode, a direct connection with the user terminal 20 is possible to execute the remote parking function.

[0063] The GPS antenna 130 is an antenna for receiving positioning signals transmitted from positioning satellites (also referred to as GNSS satellites).

[0064] The GPS module 140 is a module that calculates location information based on a signal received by the GPS antenna 130 .

[0065] The control unit 101 is a computing unit that realizes various functions of the DCM 100 by executing a predetermined program. The control unit 101 may be realized by, for example, a CPU or the like.

[0066] The control unit 101 performs a function of connecting to an external network via either a cellular communication network or a local network.

[0067] The control unit 101 also mediates communications between an external network and components within the vehicle 10 (vehicle components). For example, if a vehicle component needs to communicate with an external network, the control unit 101 relays data sent from that vehicle component to the external network. Furthermore, the control unit 101 receives data sent from the external network and forwards it to the appropriate vehicle component.

[0068] Furthermore, the control unit 101 can execute functions unique to the device. For example, the control unit 101 is configured to execute a monitoring function and a communication function of the security system, and can issue safety notifications and emergency notifications based on triggers occurring in the vehicle.

[0069] The storage unit 102 is a memory device that includes a main storage device and an auxiliary storage device. The auxiliary storage device stores an operating system (OS), various programs, various tables, etc. By loading the stored programs into the main storage device and executing them, various functions that meet the intended purpose, as described below, can be achieved.

[0070] The communication unit 103 is an interface component for connecting the DCM 100 to the in-vehicle network. In this embodiment, multiple vehicle components, including the ECU 200, are interconnected via the in-vehicle network bus. An example of an in-vehicle network standard is CAN (Controller Area Network). Furthermore, if the in-vehicle network utilizes multiple standards, the communication unit 103 may include multiple interface devices that match the standards of the communication destination. Examples of communication standards other than CAN include Ethernet (registered trademark).

[0071] Furthermore, the DCM 100 can be configured to operate independently of other components of the vehicle 10. For example, an auxiliary battery can be built into the DCM 100, allowing it to operate independently without relying on an external power source. With this configuration, even if other components of the vehicle 10 malfunction (e.g., power failure) due to a traffic accident or the like, emergency notifications can still be made.

[0072] Next, the functions executed by the control unit 101 will be described. Figure 4 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating the functional blocks included in the control unit 101. The functional blocks included in the control unit 101 can be realized by the control unit 101 executing a program stored in a storage unit such as a ROM.

[0073] The wireless connection control unit 1011 controls wireless connections using the first communication module 110 and the second communication module 120. The wireless connection control unit 1011 manages information required for wireless connections and connects to the cellular communication network and the local network via the first communication module 110 and the second communication module 120 when the network is available.

[0074] Furthermore, the wireless connection control unit 1011 selects an operation mode from the server mode and the client mode when performing communication using the second communication module 120. The specific method will be described later.

[0075] Data relay unit 1012 relays data sent and received between vehicle components. For example, it receives a message from a first device connected to the vehicle network and, if necessary, forwards the message to a second device connected to the vehicle network. The first and second devices can be ECU 200 or other vehicle components.

[0076] Furthermore, when receiving a message from a vehicle component destined for an external network, the data relay unit 1012 relays the message to the external network. Furthermore, the data relay unit 1012 receives data sent from the external network and transfers the data to the appropriate vehicle component.

[0077] The emergency notification unit 1013 makes an emergency notification to an operator outside the vehicle when an abnormal situation occurs in the vehicle 10. An example of an abnormal situation is a traffic accident or a vehicle breakdown. When a predetermined trigger occurs, such as the pressing of a call button provided in the vehicle or the deployment of an airbag, the emergency notification unit 1013 initiates a connection with the operator, enabling a conversation between the vehicle occupants and the operator. In addition, during the emergency notification, the emergency notification unit 1013 may also transmit the vehicle's location information to the operator. In this case, the emergency notification unit 1013 may also obtain the location information from the GPS module 140.

[0078] The security management unit 1014 performs security monitoring. For example, based on data received from the ECU 200, which manages the vehicle's electronic locks, the security management unit 1014 detects when the vehicle has been unlocked without following proper procedures and transmits a security notification to a predetermined device. Furthermore, the security notification may include the vehicle's location information. In this case, the security management unit 1014 may also obtain location information from the GPS module 140. The security management unit 1014 may also obtain location information when it determines that a safety issue has occurred with the vehicle and periodically transmit the obtained location information to a pre-designated external device.

[0079] The update unit 1015 updates the software used by the device (DCM 100) or the electronic control unit (ECU 200) of the vehicle 10. For example, the update unit 1015 manages the versions of the firmware stored in multiple ECUs 200 and, when new firmware is provided by an external device, downloads it via the network and applies it to the target device.

[0080] While examples of the inherent functions provided by the DCM 100 include an emergency notification function, a safety function, and a software update function, the DCM 100 may also have other functions. For example, the DCM 100 may also have a driving diagnosis function, a driver status monitoring function, an energy management function, and the like.

[0081] Next, the parking ECU 200A will be described.

[0082] The parking ECU 200A is an electronic control unit that executes a remote parking function in accordance with a request transmitted from the user terminal 20 .

[0083] Like DCM 100 , ECU 200 can be configured as a computer including a processor such as a CPU or GPU, a main storage device such as a RAM or ROM, and an auxiliary storage device such as an EPROM, a disk drive, or a removable medium.

[0084] The parking ECU 200A includes a control unit 201 , a storage unit 202 , and a communication unit 203 .

[0085] The control unit 201 is a calculation unit (processor) that realizes various functions of the parking ECU 200A by executing a predetermined program. The storage unit 202 is a memory device including a main storage device and an auxiliary storage device.

[0086] The communication unit 203 is a communication interface that connects the parking ECU 200A to the vehicle network. The communication unit 203 transmits a message in a predetermined format generated by the control unit 201 to the network bus and transmits a message received from the network bus to the control unit 201.

[0087] Figure 5 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating the functional blocks included in the control unit 201. The functional blocks included in the control unit 201 can be realized by the control unit 201 executing a program stored in a storage unit such as a ROM.

[0088] The parking control unit 2011 generates instructions (such as forward and reverse instructions, steering instructions) for parking the vehicle in a predetermined area based on sensor data obtained from multiple sensors included in the sensor group 300, and sends them to the component that manages the drive of the vehicle 10 (such as other ECU200).

[0089] The network bus is a communication bus that constitutes the vehicle network. In this example, a single bus is shown, but the vehicle 10 may have two or more communication buses. Multiple communication buses may be interconnected via the DCM 100 or a gateway that aggregates the multiple communication buses.

[0090] Next, the user terminal 20 will be described. Figure 6 1 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the user terminal 20 in this embodiment.

[0091] The user terminal 20 is a computer associated with a user. The user terminal 20 is typically a terminal held by a vehicle occupant. The vehicle occupant communicates with the parking ECU 200A via the user terminal 20 to enable the vehicle 10 to execute a remote parking function.

[0092] The user terminal 20 is a computer such as a personal computer, a smartphone, a mobile phone, a tablet computer, or a personal information terminal, and includes a control unit 21 , a storage unit 22 , a communication unit 23 , and an input / output unit 24 .

[0093] The control unit 21 is a unit that manages the control of the user terminal 20. For example, the control unit 21 executes processing to send requests to the parking ECU 200A and to interact with the parking ECU 200A. The control unit 21 may also generate a GUI to present to the user based on information sent from the parking ECU 200A.

[0094] The control unit 21 is constituted by, for example, a microcomputer. The control unit 21 may realize these functions by having the CPU execute a program stored in a storage unit (ROM, etc.).

[0095] The storage unit 22 is configured to include a main storage device and an auxiliary storage device. The main storage device is a memory that stores the programs executed by the control unit 21 and the data used by these control programs. The auxiliary storage device is a device that stores the programs executed by the control unit 21 and the data used by these control programs. The auxiliary storage device may also store programs packaged as applications for the programs executed by the control unit 21. Furthermore, the operating system for executing these applications may be stored. The programs stored in the auxiliary storage device are loaded into the main storage device and executed by the control unit 21, thereby performing the processing described below.

[0096] Primary storage devices may include RAM (Random Access Memory) and ROM (Read Only Memory). Furthermore, auxiliary storage devices may include EPROM (Erasable Programmable ROM) and hard disk drives (HDDs). Furthermore, auxiliary storage devices may include removable media, i.e., portable recording media.

[0097] The communication unit 23 is a module that performs wireless communication with the DCM 100. In this embodiment, the communication unit 23 can communicate with the DCM 100 using the Wi-Fi standard.

[0098] In addition, the communication unit 23 may also serve as a communication interface for communicating with a wide area network such as the Internet. For example, the communication unit 23 may include a communication module for performing cellular communication.

[0099] The input / output unit 24 is a component that receives input operations from the user and presents information to the user. The input / output unit 24 is composed of, for example, a touch panel display. The input / output unit 24 can also be composed of a liquid crystal display and its control unit, or a touch panel and its control unit.

[0100] Next, a description will be given of a process for executing remote parking by interaction between the user terminal 20 and the parking ECU 200A. Figure 7 2 is a flowchart showing an outline of the process. The illustrated process starts when a remote parking request is made from the user terminal 20 .

[0101] First, in step S11, the user terminal 20 transmits a request to the DCM 100 to initiate remote parking. If the DCM 100 is operating in client mode, it cannot directly accept requests from the user terminal 20. Therefore, in this step, communication between the user terminal 20 and the DCM 100 occurs via a wide area network such as the Internet. Furthermore, if the DCM 100 is operating in server mode, steps S11 and S12 may be omitted.

[0102] Upon receiving the request, the DCM 100 switches its operation mode to the server mode in step S12 and starts waiting for a connection from the user terminal. At this timing, the existing connection to the local network is disconnected.

[0103] Next, in step S13A, the user terminal 20 issues a connection request to the DCM 100 , and in step S13B, starts a Wi-Fi direct connection. Furthermore, a communication path is established between the user terminal 20 and the parking ECU 200A via the DCM 100 , and a start request is sent to the parking ECU 200A (step S14 ).

[0104] In step S15 , the parking ECU 200A identifies the parking location of the vehicle 10 and generates a required trajectory. For example, the parking ECU 200A (parking control unit 2011 ) identifies the parking space of the vehicle 10 based on sensor data obtained from the distance sensor and image sensor included in the sensor group 300 .

[0105] Alternatively, the parking space to be parked may be identified based on an instruction sent from the user terminal 20. For example, the parking ECU 200A may send an image of the vehicle's surroundings acquired by an image sensor to the user terminal 20, and the user may designate a parking space to be parked in the image.

[0106] Next, the parking ECU 200A generates a trajectory for parking in the space. The trajectory may also include a turnaround. When the process is complete, the parking control unit 2011 sends a preparation completion notification to the user terminal 20.

[0107] In step S16, parking control unit 2011 moves vehicle 10 based on instructions from user terminal 20. In this step, user terminal 20 periodically transmits movement instructions to parking ECU 200A. Parking ECU 200A moves the vehicle based on the periodic receipt of movement instructions. As a result, vehicle 10 moves along the determined trajectory.

[0108] Figure 8 This is an example of a GUI provided in the user terminal 20. In this example, when the user continues to press the button (symbol 801), a movement instruction is periodically (for example, every 100 milliseconds) sent to the parking ECU 200A. The parking control unit 2011 moves the vehicle 10 while periodically receiving the movement instruction, and stops the vehicle 10 when the reception of the movement instruction is interrupted. In this way, the user can confirm safety. In addition, in this example, the method of continuously pressing the button is illustrated, but the operation method is not limited to this as long as the intention display can be confirmed by the user. For example, a movement instruction can also be sent when the user continues to slide a predetermined area on the screen.

[0109] The parking ECU 200A periodically transmits sensor data related to the status of the vehicle 10 to the user terminal 20. This sensor data may include, for example, images captured by an onboard camera or distance information acquired by a distance sensor. This allows, for example, the user terminal 20 to output images of the surrounding area of the vehicle 10 and distance information.

[0110] When the parking ECU 200A detects that the vehicle 10 has been parked at the predetermined position, it transmits a parking completion notification to the user terminal 20 (step S17 ).

[0111] When the user performs an operation to terminate remote parking, a termination request is transmitted from the user terminal 20 to the DCM 100 (step S18 ). In addition, the DCM 100 terminates the wireless connection with the user terminal 20 and returns the mode to the client mode.

[0112] On the other hand, as described above, remote parking may be initiated after the vehicle 10 arrives at a predetermined location (e.g., a home parking lot). In such a case, when the DCM 100 is connected to the access point, the DCM 100 must disconnect from the home network and reconnect to the user terminal 20. This means that the connection to the user terminal 20 cannot be established immediately, resulting in a waiting time.

[0113] Therefore, the DCM 100 according to the present embodiment switches to the server mode in advance and does not automatically connect to the access point.

[0114] Furthermore, after the vehicle 10 is parked, the DCM 100 switches to the client mode when the use of the remote parking function ends or the connection wait from the user terminal 20 times out.

[0115] Figure 9 This is a flowchart of the process executed by DCM 100 and parking ECU 200A. DCM 100 starts the illustrated process when vehicle 10 starts traveling. The timing for starting the process is not limited to this, as long as the traveling system of vehicle 10 is activated.

[0116] First, in step S21, the wireless connection control unit 1011 starts waiting for a connection from the user terminal 20. Specifically, the wireless connection control unit 1011 switches from the client mode to the server mode and starts waiting for a connection.

[0117] Next, in step S22, the wireless connection control unit 1011 determines whether the vehicle 10 is parked. If this is a positive determination, the process transitions to step S23. If it is a negative determination, the process waits until the vehicle 10 is parked.

[0118] In step S23, the wireless connection control unit 1011 determines whether there is a connection request from the user terminal 20. If the determination is negative, the process proceeds to step S28. If the determination is positive, the process proceeds to step S24.

[0119] In step S24, the wireless connection control unit 1011 accepts the connection from the user terminal 20 and establishes a connection with the user terminal 20. Figure 7 Corresponding to steps S13A to S14 in .

[0120] In step S25, the parking ECU 200A executes the remote parking process. Figure 7 The processing described in steps S15 to S16.

[0121] In step S26, it is determined whether parking is completed. Here, if parking is completed, the process transitions to step S27. If parking is not completed, the process transitions to step S25 and continues the process.

[0122] In step S27, the wireless connection control unit 1011 starts connecting to the local network. Specifically, it switches from the server mode to the client mode and starts searching for and connecting to an access point.

[0123] If a negative determination is made in step S23, the process proceeds to step S28, where it is determined whether the connection request from the user terminal 20 has timed out. If a timeout has not occurred, the process returns to step S23. If a timeout has occurred, the process proceeds to step S27. Specifically, if a predetermined time has elapsed without remote parking starting, the wireless connection control unit 1011 initiates connection to the local network.

[0124] As described above, in the vehicle system according to the first embodiment, the DCM 100 suppresses connection to a predetermined access point at least from the time the vehicle is parked until a predetermined period has elapsed. This allows connection requests from the user terminal 20 to be promptly accepted, enabling the remote parking function to be provided quickly.

[0125] (Modification of the first embodiment)

[0126] In the first embodiment, the DCM 100 switches to the server mode in advance and waits for a connection from the user terminal 20. Alternatively, the DCM 100 may switch to the server mode when a sign that the vehicle 10 is parked is detected.

[0127] For example, when it is detected that the vehicle 10 has entered a zone corresponding to a predetermined parking space, switching to the server mode may be performed.

[0128] The area corresponding to the scheduled parking lot is, for example, an area where remote parking is presumed to be used. This area may be set by the user or automatically determined based on past remote parking usage history.

[0129] According to the above configuration, communication can be performed via a local network (for example, a road-to-vehicle communication network provided around an intersection) while the vehicle 10 is traveling.

[0130] Furthermore, the switching to the server mode may be performed at any other timing as long as it is performed at least before the vehicle 10 stops.

[0131] (Second embodiment)

[0132] In the first embodiment, the DCM 100 switches to the server mode before the vehicle 10 stops. In contrast, the second embodiment switches to the server mode based on whether a pre-registered access point is detected.

[0133] Pre-registered access points are, for example, access points that users can connect to from parking lots using the remote parking function, and are likely to have wireless connection contention. Such access points may also be automatically registered based on the vehicle 10's parking history (or remote parking function usage history) and connection history to the access point.

[0134] Figure 10 This is a flowchart of the process executed by the DCM 100 and the parking ECU 200A in the second embodiment. When the DCM 100 detects a usable access point, the illustrated process is started.

[0135] In step S20A, the wireless connection control unit 1011 obtains an identifier of the access point. For example, if the access point is an access point that uses the wireless LAN standard, the DCM 100 can obtain an SSID (Service Set Identifier).

[0136] Next, in step S20B, the wireless connection control unit 1011 determines whether the acquired SSID is a pre-registered SSID. If the acquired SSID is a pre-registered SSID, the process proceeds to step S21, where the same process as in the first embodiment begins. If the acquired SSID is not a pre-registered SSID, the process proceeds to step S27, where a connection to the access point is initiated.

[0137] As described above, switching to the server mode may be performed when an access point for which automatic connection should be suppressed is detected. In other words, suppression of automatic connection may be started when an access point for which automatic connection should be suppressed is detected.

[0138] (Variation)

[0139] The above-described embodiment is merely an example, and the present disclosure can be implemented with appropriate changes without departing from the gist of the disclosure.

[0140] For example, the processes and units described in the present disclosure can be freely combined and implemented as long as no technical contradiction occurs.

[0141] Furthermore, a process described as being performed by a single device may be shared and executed by multiple devices. Alternatively, a process described as being performed by different devices may be performed by a single device. In a computer system, the hardware structure (server structure) used to implement each function can be flexibly changed.

[0142] The present disclosure can be implemented by providing a computer program equipped with the functions described in the above embodiments to a computer, and one or more processors of the computer read out and execute the program. Such a computer program can be provided to the computer via a non-temporary computer-readable storage medium that can be connected to the system bus of the computer, or can be provided to the computer via a network. Non-temporary computer-readable storage media include, for example, any type of disk such as a magnetic disk (floppy disk (registered trademark), hard disk drive (HDD)), optical disk (CD-ROM, DVD disk, Blu-ray disk, etc.), read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), EPROM, EEPROM, magnetic card, flash memory, optical card, and any type of medium suitable for storing electronic commands.

Claims

1. An information processing device for controlling wireless communication performed by a vehicle, wherein: The information processing device includes a control unit that establishes a wireless connection with a predetermined access point when the predetermined access point is detected, wherein the control unit is configured to enable wireless connection with a user terminal. When the vehicle arrives at a predetermined location where the predetermined access point can be used, the control unit waits for a wireless connection from the user terminal and suppresses a wireless connection to the predetermined access point during at least a first period from when the vehicle stops to when a predetermined timing arrives. During the first period, the control unit receives a connection request for a remote parking function from the user terminal, accepts a wireless connection from the user terminal, and performs remote parking control of the vehicle according to a command sent from the user terminal. The first period expires when the remote parking control of the vehicle ends or when the waiting time for wireless connection from the user terminal times out. After the first period expires, the control unit starts a wireless connection with the predetermined access point.

2. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein The control unit can operate in either a client mode for establishing a wireless connection with another device or a server mode for accepting a wireless connection from another device.

3. The information processing device according to claim 2, wherein: The control unit operates in the server mode during the first period.

4. The information processing device according to claim 3, wherein: The control unit shifts to the client mode after the first period expires.

5. The information processing device according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein: The control unit accepts a wireless connection from a user terminal while operating in the server mode.

6. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein: The control unit stores the identifier of the predetermined access point, When an access point other than the predetermined access point is detected, connection to the access point is performed without waiting for expiration of the first period.

7. The information processing apparatus according to claim 6, wherein: The identifier is a service set identifier SSID.

8. An information processing device for controlling wireless communication performed by a vehicle, wherein: The information processing device includes a control unit that establishes a wireless connection with any one of a plurality of access points when the access point is detected, the control unit being configured to enable wireless connection with a user terminal. When the vehicle arrives at a predetermined location where a first access point among a plurality of access points can be used, the control unit waits for a wireless connection from the user terminal and suppresses wireless connection to the first access point during a first period from a first timing at which the first access point is detected to an arrival of a predetermined second timing. During the first period, the control unit receives a connection request for a remote parking function from the user terminal, accepts a wireless connection from the user terminal, and performs remote parking control of the vehicle according to a command sent from the user terminal. The first period expires when the remote parking control of the vehicle ends or when the waiting time for wireless connection from the user terminal times out. After the first period expires, the control unit starts a wireless connection with the first access point.

9. The information processing apparatus according to claim 8, wherein: The control unit stores the identifier of the first access point, When an access point other than the first access point is detected, connection to the access point is established without waiting for expiration of the first period.

10. The information processing apparatus according to claim 9, wherein: The identifier is a service set identifier SSID.

11. An information processing method, performed by an information processing device for controlling wireless communication performed by a vehicle, wherein: The information processing method includes: When a predetermined access point is detected, establishing a wireless connection with the predetermined access point; When the vehicle arrives at a predetermined location where the predetermined access point can be used, the step of waiting for a wireless connection from a user terminal and suppressing wireless connection to the predetermined access point during at least a first period from when the vehicle stops to when a predetermined timing arrives; In response to receiving a connection request for a remote parking function from the user terminal during the first period, accepting a wireless connection from the user terminal and performing remote parking control of the vehicle according to a command sent from the user terminal; and After the first period expires, the step of starting a wireless connection with the predetermined access point, wherein the first period expires when the remote parking control of the vehicle ends or when the waiting time for the wireless connection from the user terminal times out.

Images