Information processing apparatus, information processing method, and non-transitory storage medium storing program

Abstract

The present application relates to an information processing apparatus, an information processing method, and a non-transitory storage medium storing a program. When an abnormality occurs in a storage device, the abnormality is eliminated more quickly. The information processing apparatus has a control unit that controls a vehicle on which a storage device capable of storing goods by a user is mounted, and the control unit executes: generating a route of the vehicle in such a manner that the route passes through a storage place of the goods or a withdrawal place of the goods and a predetermined area including a predetermined place capable of eliminating a predetermined event associated with storage of the goods when the predetermined event occurs in the storage device, before the predetermined event occurs.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to information processing apparatus, information processing method, and non-volatile storage medium storing programs. Background Technology

[0002] One known technology involves installing an odor sensor in a storage locker and using the output from the odor sensor to check the likelihood that the goods are rotten or hazardous (see, for example, Patent Document 1). Another known technology involves installing an odor-detecting gas sensor in a storage warehouse; if the sensor's detection value exceeds a predetermined threshold, it is determined to be abnormal (see, for example, Patent Document 2).

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2021-033732

[0006] Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2016-045665 Summary of the Invention

[0007] If odors or dirt remain in the locker, it becomes unusable, or the next user will experience discomfort. The purpose of this disclosure is to expedite the elimination of abnormalities when they occur in the storage device.

[0008] One of the technical solutions disclosed herein is an information processing device comprising a control unit for controlling a vehicle equipped with a storage device for storing goods by a user, wherein...

[0009] The control unit performs the following actions:

[0010] A path for the vehicle is generated prior to the occurrence of a predetermined event associated with the storage of the goods, via the storage location or the retrieval location of the goods and a predetermined area, the predetermined area including a predetermined location where the predetermined event can be eliminated if it occurs in the storage device.

[0011] One of the technical solutions disclosed herein is an information processing method for controlling a vehicle equipped with a storage device for storing goods by a user, wherein...

[0012] The computer performs the following actions:

[0013] A path for the vehicle is generated prior to the occurrence of a predetermined event associated with the storage of the goods, via the storage location or the retrieval location of the goods and a predetermined area, the predetermined area including a predetermined location where the predetermined event can be eliminated if it occurs in the storage device.

[0014] One of the technical solutions disclosed herein is a non-volatile storage medium storing a program that controls a vehicle equipped with a storage device for storing goods by a user.

[0015] This program enables the computer to:

[0016] A path for the vehicle is generated prior to the occurrence of a predetermined event associated with the storage of the goods, via the storage location or the retrieval location of the goods and a predetermined area, the predetermined area including a predetermined location where the predetermined event can be eliminated if it occurs in the storage device.

[0017] In addition, other technical solutions disclosed herein are the procedures described above.

[0018] The effects of the invention

[0019] According to this disclosure, when an anomaly occurs in the storage device, the anomaly can be eliminated more quickly. Attached Figure Description

[0020] Figure 1 It is a diagram showing the general structure of the system in the implementation method.

[0021] Figure 2 This is a diagram showing the appearance of the locker.

[0022] Figure 3 This is a block diagram that schematically represents an example of the structure of the vehicle, user terminal, server, and cleaning station terminal that constitute the system of the implementation method.

[0023] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating the functional structure of a server.

[0024] Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating the table structure of the vehicle information database.

[0025] Figure 6 This is a diagram illustrating the table structure of the goods information database (DB).

[0026] Figure 7 This is a diagram illustrating the table structure of the cleaning site information database.

[0027] Figure 8 It is a diagram showing the functional structure of a vehicle.

[0028] Figure 9 It is a diagram representing the functional structure of a user terminal.

[0029] Figure 10 This is a diagram illustrating the path of the vehicle according to the first embodiment.

[0030] Figure 11 This is a flowchart of the storage and retrieval process of goods in the server according to the first embodiment.

[0031] Figure 12 This is a flowchart of the storage process in the first embodiment.

[0032] Figure 13 This is a flowchart of the extraction process in the first embodiment.

[0033] Figure 14 This is a sequence diagram of the overall system handling when soiling occurs in a locker.

[0034] Figure 15 This is a flowchart of the instruction generation process in the first embodiment.

[0035] Figure 16 This is a flowchart of the instruction generation process in the case where the personal user has cleaned the device, as described in the second embodiment.

[0036] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0037] 1. System; 10. Vehicle; 18. Locker; 20. User terminal; 30. Server; 31. Processor; 32. Main storage unit; 33. Auxiliary storage unit; 34. Communication unit; 40. Cleaning station terminal; 180. Box; 181. Dirt sensor; 182. Input / output unit; 183. Communication unit. Detailed Implementation

[0038] The information processing apparatus, as one of the technical solutions disclosed herein, includes a control unit. The control unit controls a vehicle equipped with a storage device for storing goods. Since the storage device is mounted on the vehicle, it moves with the vehicle. Therefore, when storing or retrieving goods, the user can summon the storage device to the vehicle. Thus, the user does not need to travel long distances when storing or retrieving goods.

[0039] Furthermore, the control unit generates a vehicle path before a predetermined event occurs, traversing either the storage location or retrieval location of the goods, and a predetermined area. This predetermined area includes a designated location where the predetermined event can be eliminated if it occurs in the storage device and is related to the storage of the goods. The predetermined event, for example, refers to an event that affects the stored goods or the user who stored the goods. Examples include goods having an odor, goods being soiled, goods being wet, or the user experiencing discomfort due to an odor or dirt. For instance, consider a scenario where liquid or odor leaks from goods stored by a user, and these liquids or odors remain in the storage device. If liquid or odor remains in the storage device, it may transfer to goods subsequently stored in the storage device. This predetermined event can be eliminated at the designated location. The designated location may also be, for example, a location where the storage device can be cleaned.

[0040] Here, when a predetermined event occurs in the storage device, creating a need to move to a predetermined location, if the distance to the predetermined location is long, time is required before the predetermined event is resolved. This may affect the storage and retrieval of goods. Furthermore, if the use of the storage device is restricted before the predetermined event is resolved, its utilization is limited, thus reducing revenue.

[0041] In contrast, if the vehicle's path is pre-generated by traversing a predetermined area including a predetermined location where the predetermined event can be eliminated, then the vehicle can immediately move to the predetermined location when the predetermined event occurs. The predetermined area can also be determined within an acceptable range, provided that the time required to move to the location where the predetermined event can be eliminated when it occurs is within acceptable limits. On the other hand, if the vehicle takes a longer route to pass through the predetermined area, it will result in increased power consumption or increased fuel consumption. Therefore, the predetermined area can also be determined within an acceptable range, provided that the operating cost is within acceptable limits.

[0042] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described based on the accompanying drawings. The structures of the following embodiments are illustrative, and the present disclosure is not limited to the structures of the embodiments. In addition, the following embodiments can be combined as much as possible.

[0043] <First Implementation>

[0044] Figure 1This is a diagram illustrating the schematic structure of System 1 as described in the implementation. System 1 is a system that allows users to store goods in a vehicle 10 equipped with lockers 18. Users can store and retrieve goods at any location by calling the vehicle 10 via the server 30. The vehicle 10 may be an autonomous vehicle, but it can also be a vehicle that can be manually driven by a driver, or a vehicle used by a manager who monitors the vehicle 10 or the lockers 18.

[0045] Locker 18 is a device with multiple compartments, each capable of storing goods. Figure 2 The appearance of the locker 18 is shown. As shown, the locker 18 is configured to allow access to individual compartments 180 via multiple doors. Users of System 1 can unlock specific compartments 180 using the user terminal 20 or via an interface located in the locker 18. The locker 18 is mounted inside the passenger compartment of vehicle 10. It should be noted that the locker 18 is an example of a storage device.

[0046] User terminal 20 is a terminal held by the user. By executing a pre-defined application installed on user terminal 20, the user can access vehicle 10 and lock / unlock lockers 18.

[0047] Server 30 is a device for managing the operation of vehicle 10. Upon receiving a dispatch request for vehicle 10 from user terminal 20, server 30 determines which vehicle 10 to dispatch to the user and instructs vehicle 10 to operate. Server 30 generates a path for vehicle 10 that travels via the location where the user stores goods and the location where the user retrieves goods. This path is generated by passing through a predetermined area. The predetermined area includes a cleaning area (a predetermined location) that serves as a place for cleaning the lockers 18. The path is such that it does not pass through the cleaning area until the lockers 18 become soiled or damaged, but instead passes through the predetermined area that is relatively close to the cleaning area. By having vehicle 10 travel along such a path, when soiling or damage occurs in the lockers 18 of vehicle 10, vehicle 10 can be quickly moved to the cleaning area.

[0048] Furthermore, if the locker 18 becomes soiled, the server 30 moves the vehicle 10 to a cleaning area for cleaning personnel to clean. The cleaning area can be a car dealership, auto repair shop, gas station, or a registered user's home. In the cleaning area, cleaning personnel can unlock the locker 180 to be cleaned using the cleaning area terminal 40 or via an interface located on the locker 18. The cleaning area terminal 40 is the terminal used by cleaning personnel in the cleaning area. Cleaning personnel can lock and unlock the lockers by executing a pre-installed application on the cleaning area terminal 40. Cleaning personnel can be employees of car dealerships, auto repair shops, gas stations, or registered users.

[0049] Vehicle 10, user terminal 20, server 30, and cleaning station terminal 40 are interconnected via network N1. Network N1 may be a global public communication network such as the Internet, or it may be a WAN (Wide Area Network) or other communication network. Alternatively, network N1 may include telephone communication networks such as mobile phones, or wireless communication networks such as Wi-Fi. Furthermore, locker 18 is connected to user terminal 20 and cleaning station terminal 40 via network N2, which includes near-field communication (NFC). Network N2 may utilize technologies such as Bluetooth Low Energy, NFC, UWB (Ultra Wideband), or Wi-Fi for data communication.

[0050] based on Figure 3 The hardware and functional structures of vehicle 10, user terminal 20, server 30 and cleaning site terminal 40 are described. Figure 3 This is a block diagram that schematically illustrates an example of the structure of each of the vehicle 10, user terminal 20, server 30, and cleaning station terminal 40 constituting the system 1 of this embodiment.

[0051] Server 30 has a computer structure. Server 30 has a processor 31, a main storage unit 32, a secondary storage unit 33, and a communication unit 34. They are interconnected via a bus. Processor 31 is an example of a control unit. Main storage unit 32 and secondary storage unit 33 are examples of storage units.

[0052] Processor 31 is a CPU (Central Processing Unit), DSP (Digital Signal Processor), etc. Processor 31 controls server 30, performing various information processing operations. Main storage unit 32 is RAM (Random Access Memory), ROM (Read Only Memory), etc. Auxiliary storage unit 33 is EPROM (Erasable Programmable ROM), Hard Disk Drive (HDD), removable media, etc. Operating system (OS), various programs, various tables, etc., are stored in auxiliary storage unit 33. Processor 31 loads the programs stored in auxiliary storage unit 33 into the working area of ​​main storage unit 32 and executes them, controlling various structural units by executing the programs. Thus, server 30 performs functions consistent with its intended purpose. Main storage unit 32 and auxiliary storage unit 33 are recording media that can be read by a computer. It should be noted that server 30 can be a single computer or a server composed of multiple computers working together. Additionally, information stored in the auxiliary storage unit 33 can also be stored in the main storage unit 32. Furthermore, information stored in the main storage unit 32 can also be stored in the auxiliary storage unit 33.

[0053] The communication unit 34 is a component that communicates with the vehicle 10, the user terminal 20, and the cleaning station terminal 40 via the network N1. The communication unit 34 may be, for example, a LAN (Local Area Network) interface board or a wireless communication circuit for wireless communication. The LAN interface board and the wireless communication circuit are connected to the network N1.

[0054] Next, vehicle 10 is, for example, a mobile body capable of autonomous movement and equipped with a computer. Vehicle 10 has a processor 11, main storage unit 12, auxiliary storage unit 13, communication unit 14, position information sensor 15, environmental information sensor 16, drive unit 17, and storage compartment 18. They are interconnected via a bus. The processor 11, main storage unit 12, and auxiliary storage unit 13 are the same as the processor 31, main storage unit 32, and auxiliary storage unit 33 of server 30, so their description is omitted.

[0055] The communication unit 14 is a communication component used to connect the vehicle 10 to the network N1. The communication unit 14 is, for example, a circuit used to communicate with other devices (such as server 30, etc.) via the network N1 using wireless communication services such as mobile communication services (e.g., 5G (5th Generation), 4G (4th Generation), 3G (3rd Generation), LTE (Long Term Evolution), etc.), Wi-Fi (registered trademark), or Bluetooth (registered trademark).

[0056] The location information sensor 15 acquires the location information (e.g., latitude and longitude) of the vehicle 10 at predetermined intervals. The location information sensor 15 may be, for example, a GPS (Global Positioning System) receiver or a wireless communication unit. The information acquired by the location information sensor 15 is recorded, for example, in an auxiliary storage unit 13, and then sent to the server 30.

[0057] The environmental information sensor 16 is a component that senses the state of the vehicle 10 or the surroundings of the vehicle 10. Examples of sensors used to sense the state of the vehicle 10 include gyroscope sensors, accelerometers, or azimuth sensors. Examples of sensors used to sense the surroundings of the vehicle 10 include stereo cameras, laser scanners, LiDAR, or radar.

[0058] The drive unit 17 is a device for driving the vehicle 10 based on control commands generated by the processor 11. The drive unit 17 is configured, for example, to include multiple motors for driving the rotor of the vehicle 10, and by driving the multiple motors according to the control commands, the autonomous driving of the vehicle 10 is achieved.

[0059] Locker 18 is a device for storing a user's goods. Locker 18 has multiple compartments 180 for storing the user's goods, and each compartment 180 is equipped with a dirt sensor 181 for detecting odors or dirt inside. Additionally, locker 18 has an input / output unit 182 and a communication unit 183. The dirt sensor 181, input / output unit 182, and communication unit 183 are connected to the processor 11 of the vehicle 10 via a bus.

[0060] The contamination sensor 181 includes one or more sensors, such as a sensor capable of detecting odor components, a sensor capable of detecting dirt, or a sensor capable of detecting liquids. The sensor capable of detecting odor components may be, for example, an odor sensor capable of detecting the intensity of the odor. The sensor capable of detecting dirt may be, for example, a sensor equipped with a camera (image sensor), or a sensor that detects the degree of dirt based on captured image data. The sensor capable of detecting liquids may be, for example, a liquid leakage sensor that detects liquid leakage by detecting changes in light transmittance or reflectance, or a liquid leakage sensor that detects liquid leakage by detecting changes in resistance. Multiple of these sensors can be combined and used. It should be noted that, as another method, the contamination sensor 181 may also be a sensor that detects a state where liquid may spill. For example, the contamination sensor 181 may employ a gyroscope sensor, and if the gyroscope sensor's detection value is a value indicating that liquid may spill, then liquid is considered detected.

[0061] The input / output unit 182 is a unit that accepts input operations performed by the user and provides information to the user. In this embodiment, it consists of a touchpad display. Alternatively, the input / output unit 182 may also include other components for exchanging authentication information with the user terminal 20. For example, it may include a camera for reading two-dimensional barcodes.

[0062] The communication unit 183 is a communication component used to connect the locker 18 to the network N2. The communication unit 183 is, for example, a circuit used to communicate with other devices (such as user terminal 20 or cleaning terminal 40) via the network N2 using wireless communication networks such as Bluetooth (registered trademark), Low Energy, NFC (Near Field Communication), UWB (Ultra Wideband), and Wi-Fi (registered trademark).

[0063] Next, user terminal 20 will be described. User terminal 20 is, for example, a small computer such as a smartphone, mobile phone, tablet computer, personal information terminal, wearable computer (smartwatch, etc.), or personal computer (PC). User terminal 20 has a processor 21, main storage unit 22, secondary storage unit 23, input unit 24, display 25, and communication unit 26. They are interconnected via a bus. Regarding processor 21, main storage unit 22, and secondary storage unit 23, since they are the same as processor 31, main storage unit 32, and secondary storage unit 33 of server 30, their description is omitted.

[0064] Input unit 24 is a component that accepts input operations performed by the user, such as a touchpad, mouse, keyboard, or button. Display 25 is a component that displays information to the user, such as an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) or EL (Electroluminescence) panel. Input unit 24 and display 25 can also be configured as a single touchpad display.

[0065] Communication unit 26 is a communication component used to connect user terminal 20 to network N1 or network N2. Communication unit 26 is, for example, a circuit used to communicate with other devices (such as vehicle 10, locker 18, or server 30, etc.) via network N1 or network N2 using mobile communication services (e.g., 5G (5th Generation), 4G (4th Generation), 3G (3rd Generation), LTE (Long Term Evolution) telephone communication networks), Wi-Fi (registered trademark), Bluetooth (registered trademark), Low Energy, NFC (Near Field Communication), UWB (Ultra Wideband), and other wireless communication networks.

[0066] Next, the cleaning terminal 40 will be described. The cleaning terminal 40 is, for example, a small computer such as a smartphone, mobile phone, tablet computer, personal information terminal, wearable computer (smartwatch, etc.), or personal computer (PC). The cleaning terminal 40 has a processor 41, a main storage unit 42, an auxiliary storage unit 43, an input unit 44, a display 45, and a communication unit 46. These are interconnected via a bus. It should be noted that these structures are the same as those of the user terminal 20, including the processor 21, main storage unit 22, auxiliary storage unit 23, input unit 24, display 25, and communication unit 26, therefore, their description is omitted.

[0067] Next, the functions of server 30 will be explained. Figure 4This is a diagram illustrating the functional structure of server 30. As functional components, server 30 includes a control unit 300, user information DB 311, vehicle information DB 312, cargo information DB 313, cleaning site information DB 314, and map information DB 315. The processor 31 of server 30 executes the processing of control unit 300 using a computer program stored in main storage unit 32. Any element of each functional component, or a portion thereof, can also be executed by hardware circuitry. Control unit 300 includes vehicle management unit 301, cargo management unit 302, and instruction unit 303.

[0068] User information DB311, vehicle information DB312, cargo information DB313, cleaning site information DB314, and map information DB315 are constructed by managing the data stored in the auxiliary storage unit 33 through a program of a database management system (DBMS) executed by the processor 31. User information DB311, vehicle information DB312, cargo information DB313, cleaning site information DB314, and map information DB315 are, for example, relational databases.

[0069] It should be noted that any element of the functional components of server 30, or a part of its processing, can also be executed by other computers connected to network N1.

[0070] The vehicle management department 301 collects information related to vehicle 10 and updates the vehicle information DB312 (described later). Specifically, the vehicle management department 301 periodically communicates with multiple vehicles 10 to collect information related to vehicle 10 (hereinafter also referred to as vehicle information). The collected information is reflected in the vehicle information DB312 (described later).

[0071] The cargo management unit 302 receives storage requests from users who wish to store cargo. A storage request refers to information used to dispatch the vehicle 10, from which the cargo is to be stored, to the user's desired location. The storage request is sent from the user terminal 20 to the server 30. The storage request includes information related to the user ID, storage location, storage date and time, and the size of the cargo. The user ID is a unique identifier for the user. User information corresponding to the user ID (e.g., name, address, phone number, email address, etc.) can be pre-registered by the user using the user terminal 20, or it can be sent from the user terminal 20 along with the storage request. This user information is stored in the user information DB311. The user information DB311 is formed by storing user information in the auxiliary storage unit 33, and user information is associated with user information within the user information DB311. The storage location is the location where the user wishes to store the cargo in the locker 18 of the vehicle 10, and can be represented, for example, by coordinates (latitude and longitude), address, or building name. The storage date and time is the date and time the user wishes to store the cargo in the locker of the vehicle 10. It should be noted that the storage date and time can also be specified as a time period with a certain width.

[0072] Additionally, the cargo management department 302 receives retrieval requests from users who wish to retrieve their goods. A retrieval request refers to information used to dispatch the vehicle 10 carrying the goods to the user's desired location for the purpose of retrieving the goods. A retrieval request is sent from the user terminal 20 to the server 30. The retrieval request includes information related to the user ID, retrieval location, and retrieval date and time. The retrieval location is the location where the user wishes to retrieve the goods from the locker 18 of the vehicle 10, and can be represented, for example, by coordinates (latitude and longitude), address, or building name. The retrieval date and time is the date and time the user wishes to retrieve the goods from the locker 18 of the vehicle 10. It should be noted that the retrieval date and time can also be specified as a time period with a certain width. Furthermore, the retrieval request can be sent from the user terminal 20 either simultaneously with the storage request or after the storage request.

[0073] The cargo management department 302 stores the information contained in the storage request and the information contained in the retrieval request in the cargo information DB313 described later.

[0074] Upon receiving a storage request or a retrieval request, the instruction unit 303 determines the location for storing or retrieving the goods (i.e., the location for dispatching vehicle 10, hereinafter referred to as the dispatch location) and its date and time (hereinafter referred to as the dispatch date and time), and generates an instruction, i.e., a running instruction, to make vehicle 10 run. The running instruction includes, for example, the path of vehicle 10.

[0075] Additionally, the command unit 303 generates a path for the vehicle 10 via a predetermined area including the cleaning area. The predetermined area is, for example, an area within a predetermined distance from the cleaning area. The command unit 303 generates a temporary path based on storage and retrieval requests, and if the temporary path does not pass through the predetermined area, it regenerates a new path by passing through the predetermined area. In this case, the command unit 303 may also retrieve the cleaning area with the shortest distance from the temporary path to the predetermined area, and generate a new path by passing through that predetermined area and minimizing the travel distance. It should be noted that the path can be generated either with the predetermined area located between dispatch locations, or with the predetermined area located at each of multiple dispatch locations.

[0076] Furthermore, if there is no cleaning area near the temporary path, a path through the predetermined area can be generated without being forced. For example, if the difference in travel distance between the new path and the temporary path exceeds a predetermined distance, or if the difference in travel time between the new path and the temporary path exceeds a predetermined time, the new path through the predetermined area may not be adopted. The predetermined distance and predetermined time mentioned here can also be determined based on cost or allowable time. It should be noted that the ratio of distance or time can also be used instead of the difference in distance or time.

[0077] The instruction unit 303 generates a path based on map information stored in map information DB315. For example, the instruction unit 303 generates a running instruction to cause vehicle 10 to depart from its current location, travel through various dispatch locations on the dispatch date and time, and pass through predetermined areas along the way. Furthermore, the running instruction includes instructions to deposit goods with the user at each dispatch location or to hand over goods to the user.

[0078] For example, when receiving a storage request from a user, the instruction unit 303 selects a dispatchable vehicle 10 based on information such as the storage location, storage date and time, and size of the goods included in the storage request. A dispatchable vehicle 10 is one with available space in a container 180 capable of storing goods of the corresponding size and capable of moving to the storage location on the storage date and time. For example, a vehicle that has accepted a reservation to store or retrieve goods at another location on the same date and time is not equivalent to a vehicle 10 capable of moving to the storage location on the storage date and time. Therefore, a vehicle 10 is selected based on the dispatch location and dispatch date and time corresponding to other goods. It should be noted that if no dispatchable vehicle 10 exists on the user's desired storage date and time, the user terminal 20 may be notified that the goods cannot be stored. In this case, the user terminal 20 may also be notified of the date and time on which the goods can be stored at the storage location.

[0079] It should be noted that, in the above description, the storage request includes, but is not limited to, the storage date and time, and the server 30 may also prompt the user with the storage date and time. For example, if the server 30 has obtained the storage location, it may also obtain the date and time when goods can be stored based on the reservation status of the container 180, and notify the user terminal 20 of the available storage date and time. If there are multiple available storage dates and times, the user may be prompted with multiple available storage dates and times. This allows the user to choose from multiple available storage dates and times. Similarly, the storage request may not include a storage location, but the server 30 may still prompt the user with the storage location. Furthermore, as another method, the server 30 may also prompt the user with both the storage location and the storage date and time.

[0080] Additionally, when the instruction unit 303 receives a retrieval request from a user, it selects the vehicle 10 to be dispatched based on information such as the user ID, retrieval location, and retrieval date and time included in the retrieval request. In this case, the dispatched vehicle 10 is one where the user has already deposited goods. Therefore, the vehicle 10 for which the user has already deposited goods is determined based on the user ID. Then, the instruction unit 303 determines whether the vehicle 10 can be dispatched to the retrieval location on the specified retrieval date and time based on the retrieval location and retrieval date and time included in the retrieval request. It should be noted that, alternatively, if the vehicle 10 cannot be dispatched on the user's desired retrieval date and time, the instruction unit 303 may notify the user terminal 20 that the goods cannot be transferred at the retrieval location on that date and time. In this case, the instruction unit 303 may also notify the user terminal 20 of the date and time on which the goods can be transferred at the retrieval location.

[0081] It should be noted that while the above description includes the pickup date and time in the pickup request, it is not limited to this. The server 30 can also prompt the user with the pickup date and time. For example, if the server 30 has obtained the pickup location, it can also obtain the available pickup date and time based on the reservation status of box 180 and notify the user terminal 20 of this available pickup date and time. If multiple available pickup dates and times exist, the user can be prompted with all of them. This allows the user to choose from multiple available pickup dates and times. Similarly, the pickup request may not include the pickup location, but the server 30 can still prompt the user with the pickup location. Furthermore, as another method, the server 30 can also prompt the user with both the pickup location and the pickup date and time.

[0082] Additionally, the cargo management unit 302 obtains the detection value of the dirt sensor 181 from the vehicle 10. The detection value of the dirt sensor 181 is, for example, included in vehicle information periodically sent from the vehicle 10. Then, if the detection value of the dirt sensor 181 indicates that cleaning is required, an instruction is sent to the vehicle 10 to proceed to a cleaning area within a predetermined zone it will subsequently pass through. The cargo management unit 302, for example, categorizes the detection value of the dirt sensor 181 into three dirt levels and performs processing corresponding to each level. For example, the three levels could be a first level where cleaning is not required, a second level where cleaning is required but the degree of dirt is low, and a third level where the degree of dirt is high. It should be noted that the level division is not limited to three; it could be two or more levels.

[0083] Alternatively, the second level can be set to a level where simple cleaning is sufficient. Simple cleaning could be, for example, cleaning that can be completed in less than a predetermined time or cleaning using household-grade cleaning tools. On the other hand, if cleaning requires more than a predetermined time, it can be set to the third level. The third level can also be set to a level requiring special cleaning. Special cleaning refers to cleaning using tools or chemical reagents not available in a typical household. Furthermore, for example, the first level could be set if the detection value of the dirt sensor 181 is below a first threshold, the second level if it is above the first threshold but below a second threshold, and the third level if it is above the second threshold. That is, the dirt level can also be set such that the higher the detection value of the dirt sensor 181, the longer the cleaning takes.

[0084] Additionally, when liquid is detected by the contamination sensor 181, a first threshold and a second threshold can be set in a manner at least equivalent to a second or third level. Alternatively, the first threshold can be set to a value indicating the degree to which liquid does not flow from the corresponding tank 180, and the second threshold can be set to a value indicating the possibility of liquid flowing from the corresponding tank 180.

[0085] Furthermore, if dirt is detected by the dirt sensor 181, and the dirt cannot be removed immediately, the dirt level can be determined to be Level 3. The type or degree of dirt can also be determined, for example, through image processing.

[0086] The Cargo Management Department 302 stores information about the level of soiling corresponding to box 180 in the Cargo Information DB313, which will be described later.

[0087] Next, based on Figure 5 This describes the structure of the vehicle information stored in vehicle information DB312. Figure 5This is a diagram illustrating the table structure of vehicle information DB312. The vehicle information table has fields for vehicle ID, current location, status, and route. The vehicle ID field contains information that identifies the vehicle (vehicle ID). The vehicle ID is assigned to each vehicle, for example, by the vehicle management department 301. The current location field contains information related to the current location of vehicle 10 (location information). The current location of vehicle 10 is detected by the vehicle 10's location information sensor 15 and sent to the server 30.

[0088] The Status field stores data indicating the current status of vehicle 10. Specifically, it stores information related to the remaining battery level or driving range of vehicle 10. The Route field stores information related to the route taken by vehicle 10. The route stored in the Route field is the route through a predetermined area. It should be noted that temporary routes that do not pass through the predetermined area can also be stored in the vehicle information DB312.

[0089] Next, based on Figure 6 This describes the structure of the cargo information stored in cargo information DB313. Figure 6 This is a diagram illustrating the table structure of Cargo Information DB313. The Cargo Information table has fields for Vehicle ID, Container Number, User ID, Size, Storage Location, Storage Date and Time, Retrieval Location, Retrieval Date and Time, and Category. The Vehicle ID field contains information identifying the vehicle (Vehicle ID). The Container Number field contains information identifying the container (Container Number). The User ID field contains information identifying the user (User ID). The Size field contains information related to the size of the cargo. For example, the size can be represented by the dimensions (length, width, and depth), or by predefined categories such as large, medium, and small.

[0090] The storage location field contains information related to the location where the user stores the goods. This includes, for example, coordinates, an address, or the name of a building—information relevant to the destination of vehicle 10 when the user stores the goods in the locker 18 of vehicle 10. The storage date and time field contains information related to the date and time the user stores the goods.

[0091] The "Retrieval Location" field contains information related to the location where the user will retrieve the goods. This field may contain information such as coordinates, address, or building name—locations that can serve as the destination for vehicle 10 when the user retrieves the goods from locker 18. The "Retrieval Date and Time" field contains information related to the date and time the user will retrieve the goods.

[0092] The "Level" field contains information related to the level of soiling. For example, enter 1 for Level 1, 2 for Level 2, and 3 for Level 3.

[0093] Next, based on Figure 7 This describes the structure of the cleaning site information stored in cleaning site information DB314. Figure 7 This is a diagram illustrating the table structure of the cleaning site information DB314. The cleaning site information table has fields for cleaning site ID, location, available time, and available level. The cleaning site ID field contains information identifying the cleaning site (cleaning site ID). The cleaning site ID is, for example, assigned to each cleaning site by the cargo management department 302. The location field contains information related to the location of the cleaning site. The location of the cleaning site is represented, for example, by coordinates or an address. The available time field contains the day of the week and time when cleaning vehicle 10 can be handled. The available level field contains information related to the available level. For example, if level 2 can be handled, 2 is entered; if level 3 can be handled, 3 is entered. It should be noted that it can also be set so that a cleaning site capable of handling level 3 can also handle level 2. The information entered into the cleaning site information DB314 is pre-sent by cleaning personnel from the cleaning site terminal 40.

[0094] Map information DB315 stores, for example, link data related to roads (links), node data related to nodes, intersection data related to intersections, search data for searching routes, facility data related to facilities, and search data for searching locations. Additionally, it may also store information related to speed limits corresponding to each road or information related to the attributes of each road.

[0095] Next, the functions of vehicle 10 will be explained. Figure 8 This is a diagram illustrating the functional structure of vehicle 10. Vehicle 10, as a functional component, includes a driving unit 101 and a storage compartment management unit 102. The processor 11 of vehicle 10 executes the processing of the driving unit 101 and the storage compartment management unit 102 using a computer program on the main storage unit 12. However, any element of each functional component, or a portion of its processing, can also be executed by hardware circuitry. It should be noted that any element of each functional component of vehicle 10, or a portion of its processing, can also be executed by another computer connected to network N1.

[0096] The driving unit 101 controls the driving of the vehicle 10 when the vehicle 10 is driving autonomously. The driving unit 101 uses data detected by the environmental information sensor 16 to generate control commands for controlling the drive unit 17. For example, the driving unit 101 controls the speed and steering angle of the vehicle 10 by controlling multiple motors to create a difference in the rotational speed of multiple rotors.

[0097] The driving unit 101 generates a driving trajectory for the vehicle 10 based on data detected by the environmental information sensor 16, and controls the drive unit 17 to drive along that trajectory. It should be noted that known methods can be used to enable the vehicle 10 to drive autonomously. The driving unit 101 can also implement feedback control based on the detection values ​​of the environmental information sensor 16 during autonomous driving. The driving unit 101 drives autonomously around a predetermined path. This path is contained in the operating instructions sent from the server 30.

[0098] For example, the driving unit 101 drives the vehicle 10 based on the driving route and destination included in the operating instructions received from the server 30. In the event of a storage or retrieval request, the dispatch location becomes the destination. Then, at the dispatch location, the vehicle 10 stops so that the user can store or retrieve the goods.

[0099] In addition, the driving unit 101 periodically sends information related to the vehicle 10 to the server 30. The driving unit 101 sends information related to the current location obtained by the location information sensor 15 and the remaining battery capacity, etc., to the server 30 as information related to the vehicle 10.

[0100] In addition, the locker management unit 102 performs authentication of user terminals 20 for users storing or retrieving goods, authentication of cleaning staff terminals 40 for cleaning, and locking / unlocking of lockers 180. The locker management unit 102 obtains authentication information from the user terminal 20 or cleaning staff terminal 40 via network N1 from the server 30. Furthermore, the locker management unit 102 establishes communication with the user terminal 20 or cleaning staff terminal 40 via network N2 to authenticate the user terminal 20 or cleaning staff terminal 40. For example, if the authentication information obtained from the server 30 matches the authentication information obtained from the user terminal 20 or cleaning staff terminal 40, the authentication of the user terminal 20 or cleaning staff terminal 40 is successful.

[0101] If authentication is successful on user terminal 20, locker management unit 102 will unlock locker 180 corresponding to the size of the goods entered by the user and open its door. Afterwards, if the user closes the door of locker 180, locker 180 will be locked, and the user will be notified to server 30 that the goods have been deposited. It should be noted that, as another method, user authentication can also be performed based on information entered into input / output unit 182. For example, authentication is successful if the password entered into input / output unit 182 by the user matches the password obtained from server 30. This password can also be determined by server 30. Alternatively, the password entered into user terminal 20 can be sent from user terminal 20 to server 30.

[0102] Similarly, when retrieving goods, the locker management unit 102 obtains the authentication information of the user terminal 20 from the server 30 via network N1. Additionally, the locker management unit 102 establishes communication with the user terminal 20 via network N2 to authenticate the user. For example, if the authentication information obtained from the server 30 matches the authentication information obtained from the user terminal 20, the user's authentication is successful. If the user's authentication is successful, the locker 180 where the user stored goods is unlocked and opened. Alternatively, the locker number where the user stored goods can be obtained from the server 30. Alternatively, when the user stores goods, the locker number can be stored in the auxiliary storage unit 13 of the vehicle 10.

[0103] Additionally, if authentication at the cleaning terminal 40 is successful, the locker management unit 102 will unlock and open the locker 180 that needs cleaning. The locker 180 requiring cleaning is designated by the server 30. Afterwards, if the cleaning staff closes the locker 180 door, the locker 180 will be locked, and the server 30 will be notified that cleaning is complete. It should be noted that, alternatively, the cleaning staff can be authenticated based on the information entered into the input / output unit 182. For example, authentication is successful if the password entered into the input / output unit 182 by the cleaning staff matches the password obtained from the server 30. This password can also be determined by the server 30. Alternatively, the password entered into the cleaning terminal 40 by the cleaning staff can be sent from the cleaning terminal 40 to the server 30.

[0104] In addition, the locker management department 102 periodically sends the detection values ​​of the dirt sensor 181 to the server 30 via network N1.

[0105] Next, the functions of user terminal 20 will be explained. Figure 9This diagram illustrates the functional structure of the user terminal 20. As a functional component, the user terminal 20 includes a locker utilization unit 201. The processor 21 of the user terminal 20 executes the processing of the locker utilization unit 201 using a computer program on the main storage unit 22. A portion of the processing of the locker utilization unit 201 can also be executed by hardware circuitry. It should be noted that a portion of the processing of the locker utilization unit 201 can also be executed by another computer connected to the network N1.

[0106] The locker utilization unit 201 generates a storage request and a retrieval request based on the input to the input unit 24 of the user terminal 20. The locker utilization unit 201 causes the display 25 to show a screen for using the locker 18. Here, for example, buttons are displayed along with the statements "Store" and "Retrieve".

[0107] If the user clicks the "Store" button, the locker access unit 201 requests user information input. It should be noted that, alternatively, if user information is entered once, that information is stored in the auxiliary storage unit 23, and subsequently, for example, the locker 18 can be accessed simply by entering a password. The user enters the storage location, storage date and time, address, name, phone number, and email address via the input unit 24. Once the user's input is complete, the locker access unit 201 generates a storage request and sends it to the server 30 via network N1.

[0108] On the other hand, if the user clicks the "Retrieve" button, the locker utilization unit 201 prompts the user to enter the retrieval location, date, and time. If the user completes this input via the input unit 24, the locker utilization unit 201 generates a retrieval request and sends it to the server 30 via the network N1.

[0109] The server 30 may also send information related to the storage or retrieval of goods when sending storage and retrieval requests. For example, the server 30 may send information indicating that the goods can be stored or retrieved according to the conditions sent by the user terminal 20, or information indicating that the goods cannot be stored or retrieved according to the conditions sent by the user terminal 20. The locker utilization unit 201 causes the display 25 to show a screen corresponding to this information.

[0110] Furthermore, when a user stores goods in locker 18, or when a user retrieves goods from locker 18, locker access unit 201 establishes communication with locker 18 communication unit 26 to send user-related information to locker 18. Therefore, user terminal 20 is used as a key to unlock locker 180.

[0111] Here, Figure 10 This is a diagram illustrating the path of the vehicle 10 in the first embodiment. Figure 10This example illustrates the movement of vehicle 10 from a first dispatch location to a second dispatch location. The first and second dispatch locations are respectively a storage location and a retrieval location. The first path is the path with the shortest travel distance. The second path is the path with the shortest travel distance among the paths via a predetermined area. The third path is the path via a cleaning area. In this embodiment, the second path is sent to vehicle 10. That is, the first path with the shortest distance is not selected, but the second path via the predetermined area is selected. Furthermore, the third path via the cleaning area does not need to be selected until contamination is detected by the contamination sensor, but it can also be selected. The larger the predetermined area, the shorter the detour for vehicle 10, but because the distance to the cleaning area is longer, the time until the contamination is removed in the storage locker 18 becomes longer if contamination occurs. The longer the time until the contamination is removed, the longer the time before goods can be stored in the storage locker 18 becomes. Therefore, an allowable value for the time required until the contamination is removed can be preset, and the predetermined area can be determined in such a way that the time required until the contamination is removed is below the allowable value. Alternatively, the designated area can be determined within the acceptable range of driving costs.

[0112] It should be noted that, in Figure 10 The diagram shows a movement path from the first dispatch point to the second dispatch point. However, instead of this, a path through a predetermined area is generated even when a circuit path without a destination is generated or a path with predetermined dispatch points is generated. For example, if a storage request or a retrieval request is received while traveling on a circuit path without a destination, the instruction unit 303 generates a running instruction to cause the vehicle 10 to leave the circuit path and move to the storage or retrieval location. After generating the path, the instruction unit 303 sends it to the vehicle 10, and the vehicle 10 travels along the received path.

[0113] Furthermore, if a second- or third-level contamination is detected at the first dispatch location, the command unit 303 generates an operation command to move the vehicle 10 to the cleaning site. At this time, a cleaning site corresponding to the contamination level is selected.

[0114] Next, we will explain the storage and processing of goods in server 30. Figure 11 This is a flowchart of the storage and retrieval process of goods in server 30 according to the first embodiment. Figure 11 The processing shown is executed on server 30 at predetermined intervals. It should be noted that this description assumes user information is pre-stored in user information DB311.

[0115] In step S101, the goods management unit 302 determines whether a storage request has been received from the user terminal 20. If a positive determination is made in step S101, the process proceeds to step S102; otherwise, it proceeds to step S103. In step S102, storage processing is performed. The storage processing will be described later.

[0116] In step S103, the goods management unit 302 determines whether a retrieval request has been received from the user terminal 20. If a positive determination is made in step S103, the process proceeds to step S104; otherwise, it proceeds to step S105. In step S104, the retrieval process is executed. The retrieval process will be described later.

[0117] In step S105, the cargo management unit 302 determines whether the retrieval of the cargo is complete. For example, if the retrieval of the cargo is complete, information including the vehicle ID, container number, and user ID is sent from vehicle 10 to server 30. Upon receiving this information, it is determined that the retrieval of the cargo is complete. If a positive determination is made in step S105, the process proceeds to step S106; if a negative determination is made, the procedure ends. In step S106, the cargo management unit 302 updates the cargo information DB313. That is, it resets the information related to the user ID corresponding to the vehicle ID and container number, the size of the cargo, the storage location, the storage date and time, the retrieval location, and the retrieval date and time.

[0118] Next, the explanation is in Figure 11 The storage process is performed in step S102. Figure 12 This is a flowchart of the storage process in the first embodiment. In step S201, the instruction unit 303 selects a vehicle 10 to store the user's goods. Based on the information included in the storage request and the information stored in the goods information DB313, the instruction unit 303 selects a vehicle 10 that can be moved to the storage location on the storage date and time and has available space in a box 180 corresponding to the size of the user's goods. At this time, the box 180 for storing the goods is also selected.

[0119] In step S202, the command unit 303 generates a temporary path, such as the vehicle 10 starting from its current position and traveling through the storage location on the storage date and time. The command unit 303 generates the temporary path, for example, in a manner that causes the vehicle 10 to move the shortest distance or the shortest time.

[0120] In step S203, the instruction unit 303 selects a predetermined area. For example, a predetermined area located within a predetermined distance from the temporary path is selected. It should be noted that predetermined areas corresponding to cleaning areas of the second level and cleaning areas corresponding to the third level can also be selected separately. Additionally, a predetermined area corresponding to a cleaning area that can be cleaned during the period from the current time to the storage date is selected. This is determined based on the availability time field of the cleaning area information DB314. Furthermore, if no predetermined area exists within the predetermined distance, a predetermined area may not be selected. The predetermined distance mentioned here is determined, for example, by considering the increased cost due to the vehicle 10 taking a longer route or the reduced revenue due to the inability to use the storage locker 18. Furthermore, the predetermined distance or the size of the predetermined area can vary depending on the level of soiling or the location of the cleaning area.

[0121] In step S204, the instruction unit 303 generates an instruction path for vehicle 10 to travel from its current location through a predetermined area and to the parking location at the specified date and time. The instruction unit 303 generates the instruction path, for example, to cause vehicle 10 to move the shortest distance or the shortest time, but is not limited to this. Any path that allows the vehicle to reach the next dispatch location at the specified dispatch date and time is acceptable.

[0122] In step S205, the instruction unit 303 generates an operation instruction. This operation instruction includes the indication path generated in step S204. Furthermore, the instruction unit 303 generates the operation instruction by authenticating the user terminal 20 at the storage location and by receiving goods deposited by the user. Then, in step S206, the instruction unit 303 sends the operation instruction to the vehicle 10. Next, in step S207, the instruction unit 303 updates the vehicle information DB312. That is, the indication path generated in step S204 is entered into the path field.

[0123] In step S208, the cargo management department 302 updates the cargo information DB313. That is, by inputting information related to the user ID, cargo size, storage location, and storage date and time into the cargo information DB313, the cargo information DB313 is updated.

[0124] Next, the explanation is in Figure 11 The retrieval process is performed in step S104. Figure 13 This is a flowchart of the retrieval process according to the first embodiment. In step S301, the instruction unit 303 determines the vehicle 10 where the user's goods are stored. Based on the information contained in the retrieval request and the information stored in the goods information DB313, the instruction unit 303 determines the vehicle 10 where the user ID is stored.

[0125] In step S302, the command unit 303 generates a temporary path for the vehicle 10 to travel from its current location and through the pick-up location on the pick-up date and time. The command unit 303 generates the temporary path, for example, in a manner that causes the vehicle 10 to move the shortest distance or the shortest time.

[0126] In step S303, the instruction unit 303 selects a predetermined area. For example, a predetermined area existing within a predetermined distance from the temporary path is selected. It should be noted that predetermined areas corresponding to the second-level cleaning area and the third-level cleaning area can also be selected separately. Alternatively, if no predetermined area exists within the predetermined distance, no predetermined area may be selected. Furthermore, a predetermined area corresponding to a cleaning area that can be cleaned during the period from the current time to the storage date is selected. This is determined based on the responsive time field of the cleaning area information DB314. The predetermined distance mentioned here may be the same as or different from the predetermined distance described in step S203.

[0127] In step S304, the instruction unit 303 generates an instruction path for the vehicle 10 to travel from its current location through a predetermined area and to the pick-up location at the pick-up date and time. The instruction unit 303 generates the instruction path, for example, in a manner that causes the vehicle 10 to move the shortest distance or the shortest time.

[0128] In step S305, the instruction unit 303 generates a running instruction. This running instruction includes the indicated path generated in step S304. Furthermore, the instruction unit 303 generates the running instruction in a manner that involves authenticating the user terminal 20 at the pickup location and handing over the goods to the user. Then, in step S306, the instruction unit 303 sends the running instruction to the vehicle 10. Next, in step S307, the instruction unit 303 updates the vehicle information DB312. That is, the indicated path generated in step S304 is entered into the path field.

[0129] In step S308, the cargo management department 302 updates the cargo information DB313. That is, by inputting information related to the user ID, pickup location, and pickup date and time into the cargo information DB313, the cargo information DB313 is updated.

[0130] Next, the overall handling of System 1 when soiling occurs in locker 18 will be explained. Figure 14This is a sequence diagram of the overall processing of System 1 when soiling occurs in locker 18. Vehicle 10 periodically acquires the detection value of soiling sensor 181 (S11) and sends it to server 30 (S12). Server 30 determines whether soiling has occurred based on the detection value of soiling sensor 181 (S13). For example, if the detection value of soiling sensor 181 is above a first threshold or above a second threshold, server 30 determines that soiling has occurred. If server 30 determines that soiling has occurred, it generates an operating instruction containing the path for vehicle 10 to move to the cleaning area (S14). The operating instruction is sent from server 30 to vehicle 10 (S15).

[0131] Upon receiving the operating command, vehicle 10 generates control commands for controlling drive unit 17 based on the operating command (S16). Then, vehicle 10 performs driving control according to the control commands (S17).

[0132] Next, the instruction generation process in server 30 in the event that dirt is detected in locker 18 will be explained. Figure 15 This is a flowchart of the instruction generation process in the first embodiment. Figure 15 The instruction generation process shown is executed at predetermined intervals on server 30. This routine is executed for each vehicle 10.

[0133] In step S401, the cargo management unit 302 determines whether it has received detection values ​​from the vehicle 10 for each soiling sensor 181 corresponding to each box 180. If an affirmative determination is made in step S401, the process proceeds to step S402; otherwise, the process ends.

[0134] In step S402, the cargo management department 302 determines whether there are any boxes 180 whose detection value of the soiling sensor 181 is higher than or equal to the second threshold. In this step S402, the detection values ​​of all soiling sensors 181 are compared with the second threshold, and boxes 180 whose detection values ​​of the soiling sensor 181 are higher than or equal to the second threshold are selected. In addition, if there are boxes 180 whose detection values ​​of the soiling sensor 181 are higher than or equal to the second threshold, the grade field of the cargo information DB313 is entered with "3" indicating the third grade. Then, if a positive determination is made in step S402, the process proceeds to step S403; if a negative determination is made, the process proceeds to step S406.

[0135] In step S403, the cargo management unit 302 selects a cleaning area corresponding to the third level. The cargo management unit 302 selects the cleaning area based on the path input to the vehicle information DB312. For example, the cargo management unit 302 selects the cleaning area that is closest to the current location among the cleaning areas corresponding to the third level, which is included in the predetermined area that the vehicle 10 is scheduled to pass through.

[0136] In step S404, the cargo management unit 302 sends an inquiry regarding reception to the cleaning station terminal 40 of the cleaning station selected in step S403. The cargo management unit 302 generates an inquiry regarding whether vehicle 10 can be received and sends the inquiry to the cleaning station terminal 40 of the selected cleaning station. In step S405, the cargo management unit 302 determines whether a response indicating reception is received has been received. It should be noted that if no response is received from the cleaning station terminal 40 after a predetermined time, it can also be considered as receiving a response indicating non-reception and processed accordingly. If a positive determination is made in step S405, the process proceeds to step S410; if a negative determination is made, the process returns to step S403, and another cleaning station is selected. The other cleaning station can also be set as the second closest cleaning station to vehicle 10. This process is repeated until a response indicating reception is received from the cleaning station terminal 40. It should be noted that the inquiry is not necessarily necessary.

[0137] In step S406, the cargo management department 302 determines whether there are any boxes 180 whose detection value of the dirt sensor 181 is above the first threshold. In this step S406, the detection values ​​of all dirt sensors 181 are compared with the first threshold, and boxes 180 whose detection values ​​of dirt sensors 181 are above the first threshold are selected. Furthermore, if there are boxes 180 whose detection values ​​of dirt sensors 181 are above the first threshold, the grade field of the cargo information DB313 is entered with "2" indicating the second grade. Then, if a positive determination is made in step S406, the process proceeds to step S407. On the other hand, if a negative determination is made in step S406, the procedure ends because cleaning is not required.

[0138] In step S407, the cargo management unit 302 selects a cleaning area corresponding to the second level. The cargo management unit 302 selects the cleaning area based on the path input to the vehicle information DB312. For example, the cargo management unit 302 selects the cleaning area closest to its current location among the cleaning areas corresponding to the second level within the predetermined area that the vehicle 10 is scheduled to pass through.

[0139] In step S408, the cargo management unit 302 sends an inquiry regarding reception to the cleaning station terminal 40 of the cleaning station selected in step S407. The cargo management unit 302 generates an inquiry regarding whether vehicle 10 can be received and sends the inquiry to the cleaning station terminal 40 of the selected cleaning station. In step S409, the cargo management unit 302 determines whether a response indicating reception is received has been received. It should be noted that if no response is received from the cleaning station terminal 40 after a predetermined time, it can also be considered as receiving a response indicating non-reception and processed accordingly. If a positive determination is made in step S409, the process proceeds to step S410; if a negative determination is made, the process returns to step S407, and another cleaning station is selected. This process is repeated until a response indicating reception is received from the cleaning station terminal 40. It should be noted that the inquiry is not necessarily required.

[0140] In step S410, the instruction unit 303 generates a running instruction. This running instruction is for traveling along the path selected in step S403 or step S407 via the cleaning area. The running instruction includes the path selected in step S403 or step S407. The instruction unit 303 generates this path and includes it in the running instruction. In step S411, the instruction unit 303 sends the running instruction to the vehicle 10. Furthermore, in step S412, the instruction unit 303 updates the path field of the vehicle information DB312.

[0141] In step S413, the instruction unit 303 determines whether a cleaning completion notification has been received from the cleaning station terminal 40. The cleaning completion notification is a notification that cleaning of the locker 18 has been completed; it is sent to the server 30 by the cleaning staff through predetermined input to the cleaning station terminal 40 when cleaning is complete. If an affirmative determination is made in step S413, the process proceeds to step S414; if a negative determination is made, the process of step S413 is executed again.

[0142] In step S414, the cargo management department 302 updates the cargo information DB313. The cargo management department 302 enters 1 in the grade field corresponding to the record of the cleaned box 180.

[0143] As explained above, according to the first embodiment, since a path is pre-generated so that the vehicle 10 passes through a predetermined area including a cleaning area, it can be quickly moved to the cleaning area when soiling occurs. Therefore, soiling can be quickly removed, making the locker usable.

[0144] <Second Implementation Method>

[0145] In the second embodiment, a reward is given when an individual user cleans the locker 18 in the cleaning area. Figure 16 This is a flowchart of the instruction generation process in the case of a personal user performing cleaning, as described in the second embodiment. The process is executed at predetermined intervals on server 30. Figure 16 The instruction generation process is shown. This routine is executed for each vehicle 10. It should be noted that before step S414 is... Figure 15 The flowchart shown is therefore labeled with the same reference numerals as the attached figures, and the description is omitted.

[0146] exist Figure 16 In the illustrated routine, if step S414 is completed, the process proceeds to step S501. In step S501, the instruction unit 303 determines whether the person who performed the cleaning was an individual user. Information that determines whether someone is an individual user can be pre-stored in the cleaning area information DB314. For example, a field indicating whether someone is an individual user can be set in the cleaning area information DB314. Alternatively, as another method, the cleaning area ID can be changed by the individual user or other users. If a positive determination is made in step S501, the process proceeds to step S502; if a negative determination is made, the routine ends.

[0147] In step S502, the instruction unit 303 generates data representing a reward. The reward may be, for example, a discount coupon for the use of locker 18 or electronic currency. In step S503, the instruction unit 303 sends the reward data to the cleaning station terminal 40. This cleaning station terminal 40 may be, for example, a personal smartphone or personal computer.

[0148] As explained above, according to the second embodiment, a reward is given when an individual user cleans the locker 18, thus encouraging individual users to clean the locker 18.

[0149] <Other Implementation Methods>

[0150] The above-described implementation is merely one example, and this disclosure can be implemented with appropriate modifications without departing from its spirit.

[0151] The processes and components described in this disclosure can be freely combined and implemented as long as they do not create technical contradictions.

[0152] Furthermore, processes described as being performed by one device can also be performed by multiple devices. Alternatively, processes described as being performed by different devices can also be performed by one device. In a computer system, the hardware architecture (server architecture) used to implement each function can be flexibly changed. For example, server 30 may have some of the functions of vehicle 10. Additionally, vehicle 10 may have some or all of the functions of server 30.

[0153] This disclosure can also be implemented by providing a computer program, which has the functions described in the above embodiments, to a computer, and having the program read and executed by one or more processors of the computer. Such a computer program can be provided to the computer either via a non-volatile computer-readable storage medium connectable to the computer's system bus or via a network. Non-volatile computer-readable storage media include, for example, any type of disk such as a hard disk (floppy disk, hard disk drive (HDD)), 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, an optical card, or any type of medium suitable for storing electronic instructions.

Claims

1. An information processing apparatus comprising a control unit for controlling a vehicle equipped with a storage device for storing goods by a user, wherein detection values ​​are acquired from a sensor provided in the storage device for detecting contamination of the storage device, wherein, The control unit performs: A path for the vehicle is generated prior to the occurrence of a predetermined event associated with the storage of the goods, via the storage location or retrieval location of the goods and a predetermined area. This predetermined area includes designated locations where the predetermined event can be eliminated if it occurs in the storage device. The predetermined area is determined such that the time required to eliminate the predetermined event is below an acceptable value. If the sensor detects a value above a predetermined value, the control unit determines that the predetermined event has occurred.

2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The control unit selects the predetermined location based on the time when the predetermined event can be eliminated at the predetermined location.

3. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The information processing device also includes a storage unit for storing information related to the predetermined location.

4. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, In the event of the predetermined event, the control unit generates instructions to the vehicle via the predetermined location.

5. The information processing apparatus according to claim 4, wherein, In the presence of multiple predetermined locations, the control unit selects the predetermined location to be traversed based on the predetermined event.

6. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The designated location is any of the following: a car dealership, a car repair shop, a gas station, or the home of a registered user.

7. The information processing apparatus according to claim 6, wherein, If the registered user eliminates the predetermined event, the control unit will reward the registered user.

8. An information processing method for controlling a vehicle equipped with a storage device for storing goods by a user, wherein, Computer execution: A path for the vehicle is generated prior to the occurrence of a predetermined event associated with the storage of the goods, via the storage location or retrieval location of the goods and a predetermined area. This predetermined area includes designated locations where the predetermined event can be eliminated if it occurs in the storage device. The predetermined area is determined such that the time required to eliminate the predetermined event is below an acceptable value. If the detection value obtained from the sensor installed in the storage device for detecting contamination of the storage device is above a predetermined value, it is determined that the predetermined event has occurred.

9. The information processing method according to claim 8, wherein, The computer selects the predetermined location based on the time when the predetermined event can be eliminated at the predetermined location.

10. The information processing method according to claim 8 or 9, wherein, The computer retrieves information related to the predetermined location from a storage unit that stores information related to the predetermined location.

11. The information processing method according to claim 8 or 9, wherein, In the event of the predetermined event, the computer generates instructions for the vehicle in a manner that is via the predetermined location.

12. The information processing method according to claim 11, wherein, In the presence of multiple predetermined locations, the computer selects the predetermined location to be traversed based on the predetermined event.

13. The information processing method according to claim 8 or 9, wherein, The designated location is any of the following: a car dealership, a car repair shop, a gas station, or the home of a registered user.

14. The information processing method according to claim 13, wherein, If the registered user eliminates the predetermined event, the computer rewards the registered user.

15. A non-volatile storage medium storing a program that controls a vehicle equipped with a storage device for storing goods by a user, wherein, This program enables the computer to: A path for the vehicle is generated prior to the occurrence of a predetermined event associated with the storage of the goods, via the storage location or retrieval location of the goods and a predetermined area. This predetermined area includes designated locations where the predetermined event can be eliminated if it occurs in the storage device. The predetermined area is determined such that the time required to eliminate the predetermined event is below an acceptable value. If the detection value obtained from the sensor installed in the storage device for detecting contamination of the storage device is above a predetermined value, it is determined that the predetermined event has occurred.

16. The non-volatile storage medium storing a program according to claim 15, wherein, The program enables the computer to: The predetermined location is selected based on the time when the predetermined event can be eliminated from the predetermined location.

17. The non-volatile storage medium storing a program according to claim 15 or 16, wherein, The program enables the computer to: Information related to the predetermined location is obtained from the storage unit that stores information related to the predetermined location.

18. The non-volatile storage medium storing a program according to claim 15 or 16, wherein, The program enables the computer to: In the event of the predetermined event, instructions to the vehicle are generated via the predetermined location.

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