Remote driving server, remote driving method and storage medium

Abstract

The present invention provides a remote driving server, a remote driving method, and a storage medium. The server receives a request from a user's terminal or rental vehicle to return a rental vehicle, including information about the user's desired location after the rental vehicle's use. Based on the location information and the user's destination for the rental vehicle after using the rental vehicle service, the server retrieves a remote driving route for the rental vehicle. The server compares the remote driving route with a communication area on a map. If all paths in the remote driving route are within the communication area, the server sends a message to the user's terminal or rental vehicle indicating permission for the user to disembark.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a server, method and storage medium for remote driving of a rental vehicle. Background Art

[0002] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2013-30194 discloses an information processing device that accepts the return of rental vehicles from one service station to another. This conventional device obtains information about the destination of the user who rented the rental vehicle and searches for a service station close to the destination. Furthermore, the conventional device searches for a route from the destination to the service station and provides route guidance to the user. This route guidance allows the user to return (or exit) the rental vehicle at a service station close to the destination. Summary of the Invention

[0003] Consider the case where remote driving technology is applied to the drop-off and return of a rental vehicle. In this case, remote driving is performed along the route from the user's destination to any service station located near the destination. This allows the user to drop off and return the rental vehicle at the destination without having to do so at a service station close to the destination. Therefore, when utilizing remote driving technology, it can be expected that the degree of freedom in the location of drop-off and return will increase. However, in order to achieve such drop-off and return, there are issues that need to be studied, particularly from the perspectives of the communication environment and the cruising range.

[0004] One object of the present invention is to provide a useful technology that enables the removal and return of a rental vehicle to which remote driving technology is applied.

[0005] The first invention is a server that provides a rental car service utilizing remote driving, and has the following features.

[0006] The server includes an information processing device and a communication device. The information processing device includes a memory for storing various information and a processor for performing information processing using the various information. The communication device communicates with a terminal of a user who rents a rental vehicle or the rental vehicle.

[0007] The various information includes information on a communication area on a map, a location where the user has completed use of the rental car service, and a destination of the rental car after the user has completed use of the rental car service.

[0008] The processor, upon receiving a request to return the rental vehicle including information on the use completion location from the user terminal or the rental vehicle, performs a determination process to determine whether getting off the rental vehicle at the use completion location is permitted.

[0009] In the determination process, the processor

[0010] searching, based on the information of the used location and the information of the destination, a remote driving route of the rental vehicle after the user has completed using the rental vehicle service;

[0011] Based on the information of the remote driving route and the communication area, the remote driving route is compared with the communication area,

[0012] When all the routes of the remote driving route exist inside the communication area, information indicating permission for getting off is transmitted to the user's terminal or the rental vehicle via the communication device.

[0013] The second invention has the following features in addition to the first invention.

[0014] During the determination process, the processor further performs:

[0015] In a case where a portion of the remote driving route exists outside the communication area, information of an alternative location is sent to the user's terminal or the rental vehicle, wherein the information of the alternative location shows a location on the remote driving route that does not cross the route outside the communication area.

[0016] The third invention has the following features in addition to the first invention or the second invention.

[0017] The various information also includes information on the cruising range of the rental vehicle.

[0018] During the determination process, the processor further performs:

[0019] Comparing the cruising distance with the path length of the remote driving path,

[0020] When all routes of the remote driving route exist within the communication area and the route length is shorter than the cruising distance, information indicating permission to get off and leave is transmitted to the user terminal or the rental vehicle via the communication device.

[0021] The fourth invention has the following features in addition to the third invention.

[0022] During the determination process, the processor further performs:

[0023] In a case where a portion of the remote driving route exists outside the communication area, information of an alternative location is sent to the user's terminal or the rental vehicle, wherein the information of the alternative location shows a location on the remote driving route that does not cross the route outside the communication area.

[0024] The fifth invention has the following features in addition to the third invention or the fourth invention.

[0025] The various information also includes information on the locations of gas stations or charging stations.

[0026] During the determination process, the processor further performs:

[0027] When the route length is longer than the cruising distance, based on the location information of the gas station or charging station, the location information of the gas station or charging station located around the used location is transmitted to the user's terminal or the rental vehicle.

[0028] The sixth invention is a method for providing a rental vehicle service utilizing remote driving using a server, and has the following features.

[0029] The method comprises the following steps:

[0030] a step of receiving a request to return the rental vehicle including information on a location desired by the user at which the rental vehicle service has been used, from a terminal of the user who rented the rental vehicle or the rental vehicle;

[0031] a step of retrieving a remote driving route of the rental vehicle after the user has completed use of the rental vehicle service based on the information of the use completion location and the information of the destination of the rental vehicle after the user has completed use of the rental vehicle service;

[0032] the step of comparing the remote driving path with a communication area on a map; and

[0033] The step of transmitting information indicating permission for getting off to the user's terminal or the rental vehicle when all routes of the remote driving route exist inside the communication area.

[0034] The seventh invention is a storage medium storing a program for causing a server to execute a program for providing a rental vehicle service utilizing remote driving, and has the following features.

[0035] The program causes the server to execute the following processing:

[0036] receiving a request to return the rental vehicle, including information on a location desired by the user at which the rental vehicle service has been used, from a terminal of the user who rented the rental vehicle or the rental vehicle;

[0037] retrieving a remote driving route of the rental vehicle after the user has completed using the rental vehicle service, based on the information of the use completion location and the information of the destination of the rental vehicle after the user has completed using the rental vehicle service;

[0038] comparing the remote driving path to a communication area on a map; and

[0039] When all the routes of the remote driving route exist inside the communication area, information indicating permission to get off is transmitted to the user's terminal or the rental vehicle.

[0040] According to the first, sixth or seventh invention, when the server receives a request to return the rental vehicle, it determines whether it is permitted to get off the rental vehicle at the location where the use is completed. In this determination, the path (remote driving path) for remote driving of the rental vehicle in accordance with the return request is calculated. The remote driving path is then compared with the communication area. Then, when all paths of the remote driving path exist inside the communication area, information indicating that getting off is permitted is sent to the user's terminal or rental vehicle. The fact that all paths of the remote driving path exist inside the communication area means that the rental vehicle can be recovered by remote driving along the remote driving path. Therefore, in the above case, information indicating that getting off is permitted is sent, and the rental vehicle can be returned by getting off at the location where the use of the rental vehicle service desired by the user.

[0041] According to the second or fourth invention, if a portion of the remote driving route lies outside the communication area, information is sent to the user's terminal or rental vehicle regarding an alternative location that does not cross the route outside the communication area. Therefore, even if information indicating permission to exit the vehicle has not been sent, the user is given the option to exit the rental vehicle. Thus, by allowing the user to accept the action in accordance with the option, the rental vehicle can be returned by exiting the vehicle at a location different from the originally scheduled completion location.

[0042] According to the third invention, in addition to comparing the remote driving route with the communication area, the rental vehicle's cruising range is also compared with the length of the remote driving route. If all paths along the remote driving route are within the communication area and the path length is shorter than the cruising range, information indicating permission to disembark and leave is transmitted to the user's terminal or the rental vehicle. A path length shorter than the cruising range indicates that the rental vehicle can be recovered during remote driving along the remote driving route without requiring battery charging or refueling. Therefore, by transmitting information indicating permission to disembark and leave in this situation, the same effects as those achieved by the first invention can be achieved.

[0043] According to the fifth invention, when the route length is longer than the cruising distance, information on the locations of gas stations or charging stations located near the used location is transmitted to the user's terminal or rental vehicle. This achieves the same effects as those achieved by the second or fourth invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0044] Features, advantages, and technical and industrial significance of exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals represent like elements, and in which:

[0045] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating an overview of a rental car service utilizing remote driving.

[0046] Figure 2 This is a diagram illustrating an overview of the recycling service.

[0047] Figure 3 3 and 4 are diagrams for explaining the first and second examples of the getting-off and leaving determination.

[0048] Figure 4 These are diagrams for explaining the third and fourth examples of the determination of getting off and leaving the vehicle.

[0049] Figure 5 It is a diagram illustrating an example of alternative information.

[0050] Figure 6 Yes Figure 1 A block diagram of an example of the configuration of a rental vehicle is shown.

[0051] Figure 7 Yes Figure 1 A block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a management server.

[0052] Figure 8 This is a flowchart showing the flow of a first processing example performed by the management server in relation to the recycling service.

[0053] Figure 9This is a flowchart showing the flow of a second processing example performed by the management server in relation to the recycling service. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0054] Hereinafter, a remote driving server, a remote driving method, and a storage medium according to embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that identical or corresponding parts are denoted by the same reference numerals in the various drawings, and their descriptions may be simplified or omitted.

[0055] 1. Rental vehicle services using remote driving

[0056] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating an overview of a rental car service utilizing remote driving. Figure 1 , a management server 1 and a rental vehicle 2 are depicted. The management server 1 corresponds to the remote driving server according to the embodiment. The management server 1 performs remote driving of the rental vehicle 2. When performing remote driving of the rental vehicle 2, the management server 1 communicates with the rental vehicle 2 via a base station 3 on the network.

[0057] When remote driving is performed, vehicle information VHC is transmitted from the rental vehicle 2 to the management server 1. The vehicle information VHC includes, for example, information on the current position of the rental vehicle 2, information on an image of the surroundings of the rental vehicle 2, and information on the driving state of the rental vehicle 2 (e.g., vehicle speed, acceleration, steering angle, etc.).

[0058] Meanwhile, driving instruction information INS is transmitted from the management server 1 to the rental vehicle 2. This driving instruction information INS is generated by a computer that performs remote driving of the rental vehicle 2. This computer is equipped with a display, various input devices, and the like. The display displays an image of the surroundings of the rental vehicle 2. The various input devices are operated by a remote operator OP. The driving instruction information INS is generated based on the operation information of the remote operator OP on the input devices and transmitted to the management server 1.

[0059] Rental vehicle services utilizing remote driving include, for example, vehicle allocation services, driving services, and return services. In the allocation service, a rental vehicle 2 is remotely driven from a waiting location for the rental vehicle 2 (e.g., a rental vehicle operator's service station) to the user's desired rental vehicle service start location (e.g., the user's home, work, or destination). In the driving service, a rental vehicle 2 is remotely driven in response to a driving request from a user in a rental vehicle 2. In the return service, a rental vehicle 2 is remotely driven from a user's desired rental vehicle service completion location (e.g., the user's home, work, or other location) to the next waiting location for the rental vehicle 2 (e.g., a rental vehicle operator's service station).

[0060] 2. Recycling service

[0061] 2-1. Overview

[0062] In the embodiment, a return service in the rental vehicle service is studied. Through the return service, the user can get off the rental vehicle 2 at the location where the rental vehicle service is completed and return the rental vehicle 2 to the rental vehicle operator.

[0063] Figure 2 This diagram outlines the recycling service. The recycling service is implemented when the management server 1 receives a return request RET. The return request RET can be sent from the rental vehicle 2 or from the user US's terminal to the management server 1. The return request RET includes, for example, information about the user US's desired location and time of completion. Upon receiving the return request RET, the management server 1 performs a "disembarkation determination" to determine whether disembarkation from the rental vehicle 2 at the location of completion is permitted. The management server 1 then sends a response message ANS to the rental vehicle 2 or the user US's terminal. The response message ANS includes information based on the results of the disembarkation determination. The disembarkation determination will be described later.

[0064] If disembarkation at the completed location is permitted, a recovery service is provided. When performing the recovery service, the management server 1 identifies a remote operator OP responsible for remotely driving the rental vehicle 2. The remote operator OP remotely drives the rental vehicle 2 from the completed location to its destination (i.e., the next service waiting location mentioned above). The destination is, for example, a service station located near the completed location. Another example of a destination is a desired rental vehicle service start location (e.g., another user's home, office, or outing destination). Another example of a destination is a service station located near the start location.

[0065] 2-2. Determination of getting off the vehicle

[0066] In the get-off determination, for example, whether getting off the rental vehicle 2 at the used location is permitted is determined based on a comparison between a remote driving route of the rental vehicle 2 in the recovery service (hereinafter also referred to as a "remote driving route") and the communication area. Figure 3 1 and 2 are diagrams for explaining the first and second examples of getting off and leaving determination. Figure 3 , a grid-like map is schematically depicted. Multiple communication areas CA are depicted on the map. Each communication area CA is a circular area centered on the location of the base station 3. When two adjacent communication areas CA overlap, information can be exchanged between them.

[0067] Figure 3 Positions P1 and P2 are also depicted. Position P1 corresponds to the used-up position in the first example. Position P2 corresponds to the used-up position in the second example. The destination GP in both the first and second examples is the same service point of the rental vehicle operator. In the first example, a remote driving route RR1 is generated from position P1 to the destination GP, ​​while in the second example, a remote driving route RR2 is generated from position P2 to the destination GP. Remote driving routes RR1 and RR2 can be generated using known route search techniques.

[0068] In both the first and second examples, the remote driving route is compared with the communication area. In the first example, all routes of the remote driving route RR1 are within the communication area CA. If all routes are within the communication area CA, information can be exchanged between the management server 1 and the rental vehicle. Therefore, in the first example, a response message ANS indicating "Disembarkation Permitted" is sent to the rental vehicle 2 or the user US's terminal.

[0069] On the other hand, in the second example, remote driving route RR2 passes through an area UA not covered by the communication area CA (hereinafter also referred to as a "no-communication area"). In the no-communication area UA, communication between the management server 1 and the rental vehicle 2 is interrupted. Therefore, in the second example, a response message ANS indicating "disembarkation not permitted" is transmitted to the rental vehicle 2 or the user US's terminal.

[0070] In the get-off determination, in addition to comparing the remote driving route with the communication area, a comparison based on the distance to empty (Distance to Empty) may also be performed. The distance to empty is the distance that the rental vehicle 2 can travel and is calculated based on at least one of the rental vehicle 2's battery and fuel level. The distance to empty can be calculated by either the rental vehicle 2 or the management server 1. Figure 4 3 and 4 are diagrams for explaining the third and fourth examples of the determination of getting off the vehicle. Figure 4 In, with Figure 3 A plurality of communication areas CA are depicted similarly. Figure 4 It also depicts the Figure 3 The first example illustrates the remote driving route RR1.

[0071] In the third and fourth examples, the remote driving path and the communication area are compared in the same manner as in the first and second examples. In the third and fourth examples, the cruising distance DTE is also compared with the path length DTG of the remote driving path RR1. In the third example, the former is longer than the latter (DTE>DTG), and in the fourth example, the latter is longer than the former (DTE<DTG). When the latter is longer than the former, it is necessary to charge the driving battery (or replenish the fuel) during the remote driving. Therefore, in the fourth example, a response message ANS indicating "getting off the vehicle is not allowed" is sent. On the other hand, in the third example where the former is longer than the latter, a response message ANS indicating "getting off the vehicle is allowed" is sent.

[0072] 2-3. Example of advice when leaving the vehicle is not permitted

[0073] When the answer information ANS indicating that "getting off the vehicle is not permitted" is transmitted, alternative information may be suggested to the user US in addition to the information. Figure 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of alternative information. Figure 5 In the Figure 3 As described above, in the second example, the remote driving route RR2 for the recycling service passes through the no-communication area UA, and getting off at location P2 is not permitted. Therefore, information about a location P3, different from location P2, is suggested as an alternative. Location P3 is located on the remote driving route RR2 and does not cross the no-communication area UA. This alternative location information gives the user US the option of getting off the rental vehicle 2 at an alternative location.

[0074] exist Figure 5 It also depicts Figure 4 As described above, in the fourth example, position P1 is used. As already explained, in the fourth example, the path length DTG is longer than the cruising distance DTE, so exiting at position P1 is not permitted. Therefore, information about the location of a charging station CS (or gas station) near position P1 is suggested as an alternative. This alternative location information gives the user US the option of exiting the rental vehicle 2 after charging the driving battery (or refueling) at the alternative location.

[0075] Thus, according to this embodiment, upon receiving a return request RET, a disembarkation determination is performed. Based on the disembarkation determination result, a response message ANS indicating "disembarkation permitted" or "disembarkation not permitted" is transmitted to the user US's terminal or the rental vehicle 2. Consequently, when the response message ANS indicating "disembarkation permitted" is transmitted, the user US can disembark from the rental vehicle 2 at the desired location after use and return the vehicle.

[0076] Furthermore, even when the response message ANS indicating "disembarkation not permitted" is transmitted, additionally transmitting an alternative message can provide the user US with an option to disembark from the rental vehicle 2. Therefore, by allowing the user US to accept the action in accordance with the option, the user can disembark from the rental vehicle 2 and return it.

[0077] 3. Example of composition

[0078] 3-1. Example of the structure of the recycling service

[0079] Hereinafter, a configuration example for realizing a recycling service utilizing remote driving will be described. Figure 6 Yes Figure 1 A block diagram of a configuration example of a rental vehicle 2 is shown. Figure 6 The illustrated configuration example includes a camera 21, a GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) receiver 22, a sensor group 23, a map database (DB) 24, a communication device 25, a driving device 26, and an information processing device 27. The camera 21 and other components are connected to the information processing device 27 via, for example, an in-vehicle network (e.g., a CAN (Controller Area Network)).

[0080] Multiple cameras 21 are installed inside and outside the rental vehicle 2. The cameras 21 capture images of the surroundings of the rental vehicle 2. Examples of surrounding images include a front center image, a right front image, a left front image, a right side image, a left side image, and a rear image. The surrounding images are typically dynamic images. However, they may also be static images. The cameras 21 transmit information about the surrounding images IMG to the information processing device 27.

[0081] The GNSS receiver 22 is a device that receives signals from three or more artificial satellites. The GNSS receiver 22 acquires information about the current location (LOC) of the rental vehicle 2. The GNSS receiver 22 can also calculate the attitude (orientation) of the rental vehicle 2 based on the acquired current location (LOC). The GNSS receiver 22 transmits the current location (LOC) information and information about the attitude of the rental vehicle 2 to the information processing device 27.

[0082] The sensor group 23 includes status sensors that detect the driving state of the rental vehicle 2. Examples of status sensors include a speed sensor, an acceleration sensor, a yaw rate sensor, and a steering angle sensor. The sensor group 23 also includes recognition sensors in addition to the camera 21. Recognition sensors use radio waves or light to identify (detect) entities around the rental vehicle 2. Examples of recognition sensors include millimeter-wave radar and LIDAR (Laser Imaging Detection and Ranging). The sensor group 23 also includes a sensor that detects the remaining battery charge (BAT) (or the remaining fuel level) for driving. The sensor group 23 transmits information on the driving state of the rental vehicle 2, information on recognized entities, and information on the remaining battery charge (BAT) to the information processing device 27.

[0083] The map database 24 stores map information MAP. Examples of the map information MAP include road location information, road shape information (e.g., curves and straights), and information on the locations of intersections and buildings. The map information MAP also includes information on the locations of charging stations and gas stations. The map database 24 is stored in an onboard storage device (e.g., a non-volatile storage medium such as a hard disk or flash memory). Alternatively, the map database 24 can be stored in a computer capable of communicating with the rental vehicle 2 (e.g., an external server such as the management server 1).

[0084] The communication device 25 communicates wirelessly with the base station 3. Examples of the communication standard for this wireless communication include mobile communication standards such as 4G, LTE, and 5G. The communication device 25 is connected to at least the management server 1. During communication with the management server 1, the communication device 25 transmits information received from the information processing device 27, including the surrounding image IMG, the current location LOC, and the remaining battery life BAT (or the remaining battery life DTE calculated based on the remaining battery life BAT), to at least the management server 1. Upon receiving a return request RET from the information processing device 27, the communication device 25 transmits it to the management server 1.

[0085] The driving device 26 includes devices for accelerating, decelerating, and steering the rental vehicle 2. The driving device 26 includes, for example, a drive unit, a steering unit, and a braking unit. The drive unit drives the wheels of the rental vehicle 2. The steering unit steers the wheels of the rental vehicle 2. The braking unit applies braking force to the rental vehicle 2. The rental vehicle 2 is accelerated by controlling the drive unit. The rental vehicle 2 is decelerated by controlling the braking unit. If the drive unit is an electric motor, regenerative braking generated by controlling the electric motor can also be used to brake the rental vehicle 2. The rental vehicle 2 is steered by controlling the steering unit.

[0086] The driving device 26 also includes devices that assist the driving of the rental vehicle 2. Examples of the assist devices include turn indicators, lights (for example, headlights and fog lights), brake lights, and wipers.

[0087] The information processing device 27 is a computer used to process various information acquired from the rental vehicle 2. The information processing device 27 includes at least one processor 27a and at least one memory 27b. The processor 27a includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit). The memory 27b is a volatile memory such as a DDR memory, used to load various programs used by the processor 27a and temporarily store various information. Various information acquired from the rental vehicle 2 is stored in the memory 27b. The programs are stored on a storage medium.

[0088] The processor 27a performs various control functions related to the operation of the rental vehicle 2 by executing programs stored in the memory 27b. The processor 27a also determines whether remote driving is necessary by executing programs stored in the memory 27b. If remote driving is determined to be necessary, the processor 27a generates vehicle information VHC based on various information stored in the memory 27b. Vehicle information VHC includes, for example, information about the surrounding image IMG, the current location LOC, and the remaining battery capacity BAT.

[0089] 3-2. Example of a recycling service provider

[0090] Figure 7 Yes Figure 1 FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example configuration of the management server 1. Figure 7 The illustrated configuration example includes a map DB 11 , a management DB 12 , a communication device 13 , and an information processing device 14 .

[0091] The map database 11 stores map information MAP and communication area information CMN. Examples of map information MAP are described in the description of the map database 24. Communication area information CMN indicates communication areas on a map. Communication area information CMN may also indicate non-communication areas on a map. The map database 11 is stored in a predetermined storage device (e.g., a non-volatile storage medium such as a hard disk or flash memory).

[0092] The management DB 12 stores identification information CAR and identification information USR. Identification information CAR identifies the rental vehicle 2. It also includes information about the current location of the rental vehicle 2. Identification information USR identifies the user US. When the user US uses the rental vehicle service, the identification information USR includes a rental request from the user US (e.g., information about the start location and time of use). When the management server 1 receives a return request RET, information about the return request RET (e.g., information about the end location and time of use) is added to the identification information USR.

[0093] The management DB 12 also stores information on the status (STA) of rental vehicle services for rental vehicles 2 (e.g., service in progress, service waiting, etc.). The status (STA) can also indicate detailed statuses such as being assigned, being driven, or being collected. The various information stored in the management DB 12 is used to assign rental vehicles 2 in response to loan requests and to set the destination of rental vehicles 2 in response to return requests (RET). Furthermore, information on the status (STA) of rental vehicles 2 is added or updated when a loan request is assigned or a destination is set.

[0094] The communication device 13 communicates wirelessly with the base station 3. Examples of the communication standard for this wireless communication include mobile communication standards such as 4G, LTE, and 5G. The communication device 13 communicates with at least the rental vehicle 2. During communication with the rental vehicle 2, the communication device 13 transmits driving instruction information INS to the rental vehicle 2. Upon receiving a return request RET from the rental vehicle 2, the communication device 13 transmits a response message ANS to the rental vehicle 2.

[0095] When user US utilizes the rental vehicle service, the communication device 13's communication destination includes the user US's terminal. Upon receiving a return request RET from the user US's terminal, the communication device 13 transmits a response message ANS to the user US's terminal. The response message ANS can also be transmitted to both the user US's terminal and the rental vehicle 2.

[0096] The information processing device 14 is a computer used to process various information related to remote driving of the rental vehicle 2. The information processing device 14 includes at least one processor 14a and at least one memory 14b. The basic configuration of the information processing device 14 is the same as that of the information processing device 27. The memory 14b stores various programs and information used by the processor 14a. These programs include the remote driving program according to the embodiment. When remote driving the rental vehicle 2, the various information includes vehicle information VHC received from the rental vehicle 2 (e.g., information on the surrounding image IMG, the current position LOC, and the remaining battery capacity BAT) and driving instruction information INS received from the computer performing the remote driving.

[0097] 4. Processing example in the management server

[0098] 4-1. First processing example

[0099] Figure 8 This is a flowchart showing the flow of a first processing example performed by the management server 1 in relation to the recycling service. Figure 8 The shown routine is repeatedly executed in a predetermined cycle.

[0100] exist Figure 8 In the illustrated routine, a determination is first made as to whether a return request RET has been received (step S11). The return request RET is information transmitted from the rental vehicle 2, or from the terminal of the user US, who wishes to return the rental vehicle 2, to the management server 1. As already explained, the return request RET includes, for example, information on the user US's desired completion location and the completion time. The completion location is either the current location of the rental vehicle 2 or a location specified by the user US. The completion time is either the current time or a time specified by the user US. If the determination in step S11 is negative, the routine processing ends.

[0101] If the result of step S11 is affirmative, the used-out location is determined (step S12). The used-out location information is included in the return request RET received in step S11. If a used-out location is specified by the user US, that location is determined as the used-out location. On the other hand, if no used-out location is specified by the user US, the current location of the rental vehicle 2 is determined as the used-out location.

[0102] Continuing with the process of step S11, the destination GP is set (step S13). The destination GP is set in consideration of, for example, the waiting position of rental vehicles 2 waiting for service other than the rental vehicle 2 to be returned, and loan requests from other users.

[0103] Specifically, when a loan request is received, the distances from the use start location included in the loan request to each of the rental vehicles 2 are calculated. If the distance from the rental vehicle 2 being returned to the use start location is the shortest, and the use start time included in the loan request is within a specified time from the current time, the use start location is set as the destination GP. If the distance from the rental vehicle 2 waiting for service to the use start location is the shortest, or if the use start time is more than the specified time from the current time, the service station closest to the use completion location determined in step S12 is set as the destination GP.

[0104] Continuously with the processing of step S13, it is determined whether the condition for getting off the vehicle and leaving is met (step S14). In the processing of step S14, a remote driving path is first set. As a remote driving path, a path that connects the utilized position determined by the processing of step S12 and the destination GP set by the processing of step S13 is retrieved. For the remote driving path, it is preferred to retrieve multiple candidates. Then, the remote driving path is compared with the communication area CA. The information of the communication area CA uses the information read from the map DB 11. When there are multiple candidates, each candidate is compared with the communication area CA separately. When all the paths in a remote driving path exist inside the communication area CA, it is determined that the condition for getting off the vehicle and leaving is met.

[0105] If the result of the determination in step S14 is affirmative, a response message ANS indicating "Getting off the vehicle is permitted" is transmitted (step S15). The response message ANS indicating "Getting off the vehicle is permitted" includes notification information such as "Please turn off the ignition switch of the vehicle and get off the vehicle." This notification information is displayed or reproduced on, for example, the HMI device of the rental vehicle 2 or the terminal of the user US.

[0106] If the result of the determination in step S14 is negative, an answer message ANS indicating "getting off the vehicle is not allowed" is sent (step S16). The answer message ANS indicating "getting off the vehicle is not allowed" includes notification information such as "You cannot get off here, please consider changing the location of the vehicle." In addition, alternative information is added to the answer message ANS. The alternative information is information about a location on the remote driving route retrieved in the process of step S14 that does not pass through the path on the no-communication area UA. As an alternative location, for example, multiple locations are suggested at the same time. In the case where multiple candidates for the remote driving route are retrieved in the process of step S14, alternative locations among all the candidates are suggested.

[0107] Continuing with the processing in step S16, it is determined whether a confirmation has been received from the user US (step S17). For example, if a cancellation return request RET is received, it is determined that a confirmation has been received from the user US. If there is no used location specified by the user US, a determination can be made as follows. Specifically, if the current location LOC of the rental vehicle 2 changes after the response message ANS indicating "Disembarkation not permitted" is transmitted, it is determined that a confirmation has been received from the user US.

[0108] 4-2. Second processing example

[0109] Figure 9 This is a flowchart showing the flow of a second processing example performed by the management server 1 in relation to the recycling service. Figure 9 The routine shown is the same as Figure 8 The routine shown is similarly executed repeatedly at a predetermined cycle.

[0110] exist Figure 9 In the routine shown, first, it is determined whether a return request RET is received (step S21). In addition, if the determination result of step S21 is affirmative, the use-completed position is determined (step S22). The processing of steps S21 and S22 is the same as Figure 8 The contents of the processing in steps S11 and S12 shown are the same.

[0111] Continuing with the processing in step S22, information on the remaining battery charge BAT is obtained (step S23). The remaining battery charge BAT information is included in the vehicle information VHC transmitted from the rental vehicle 2 to the management server 1. If the rental vehicle 2 has already calculated the cruising distance DTE based on the remaining battery charge BAT, the cruising distance DTE information may be obtained instead of the remaining battery charge BAT information.

[0112] Continuing with the process of step S23, the destination GP is set (step S24). The content of the process of step S24 is the same as Figure 8 The content of the processing of step S13 shown is the same.

[0113] Continuing with the processing of step S24, it is determined whether the get-off condition is satisfied (step S25). In the processing of step S25, the remote driving route is first set. For example, the setting of the driving route is as follows: Figure 8 This is described in the processing of step S14. In the processing of step S25, the cruising distance DTE is calculated based on the remaining battery BAT information acquired in step S23. Then, in the processing of step S25, it is determined whether the following conditions (i) and (ii) are met.

[0114] (i) All paths in the remote driving path exist inside the communication area CA

[0115] (ii) The cruising distance DTE is longer than the path length DTG of the long-range driving path

[0116] When conditions (i) and (ii) are satisfied at the same time, it is determined that the get-off condition is satisfied.

[0117] If the result of the determination in step S25 is positive, a response message ANS indicating "getting off the vehicle is permitted" is sent (step S26). The content of the processing in step S26 is the same as that in step S26. Figure 8 The contents of the processing of step S15 are the same.

[0118] If the result of the determination in step S25 is negative, a response message ANS indicating that "getting off the vehicle is not permitted" is sent (step S27). For example, the response message ANS indicating that "getting off the vehicle is not permitted" is as follows: Figure 8 In step S26, the alternative information is added to the answer information ANS. The alternative information is set in accordance with the determination result of step S25. Specifically, when condition (i) is not satisfied, the alternative position is set as the alternative information. In addition, the method for suggesting the alternative position is also as follows. Figure 8 If the condition (ii) is not satisfied, the location of the charging station CS near the used location is searched for. Then, the location information of the charging station CS is set as the replacement information.

[0119] Continuing with the processing of step S27, it is determined whether or not the acceptance from the user US is received (step S28). The content of the processing of step S28 is the same as Figure 8 The content of the processing of step S17 shown is the same.

[0120] 5. Effect

[0121] According to the embodiment described above, when the management server 1 receives a return request RET, it performs a disembarkation determination. Based on the disembarkation determination result, it transmits a response message ANS indicating "disembarkation permitted" or "disembarkation not permitted" to the user US's terminal or rental vehicle 2. Consequently, if the response message ANS indicating "disembarkation permitted" is transmitted, the user US can disembark and return the vehicle at the desired location after use.

[0122] Furthermore, according to the embodiment, even when the response message ANS indicating "disembarkation not permitted" is sent, an alternative message is additionally sent. This provides the user US with the option to disembark from the rental vehicle 2. Thus, by allowing the user US to accept the action in accordance with the option, the user US can disembark and return the rental vehicle at a different location than the intended one.

Claims

1. A remote driving server that provides a rental vehicle service using remote driving, characterized in that: An information processing device including a memory for storing various information and a processor for performing information processing using the various information; as well as a communication device for communicating with a terminal of a user who rents a rental vehicle or the rental vehicle, The various information includes a communication area on a map, a location where the user has completed use of the rental vehicle service, a destination of the rental vehicle after the user has completed use of the rental vehicle service, and information on a cruising range of the rental vehicle. The processor, upon receiving a request to return the rental vehicle including information about the use-completed location from the user's terminal or the rental vehicle, performs a determination process to determine whether the user is permitted to get off the rental vehicle at the use-completed location. In the determination process, the processor searching, based on the information of the used location and the information of the destination, a remote driving route of the rental vehicle after the user has completed using the rental vehicle service; Based on the information of the remote driving route and the communication area, the remote driving route is compared with the communication area, and the cruising distance is compared with the path length of the remote driving route. If all paths of the remote driving route are inside the communication area and the path length is shorter than the cruising distance, information indicating permission to get off and leave is sent to the user's terminal or the rental vehicle via the communication device. In a case where a portion of the remote driving route exists outside the communication area, information of an alternative location is sent to the user's terminal or the rental vehicle, wherein the information of the alternative location shows a location on the remote driving route that does not cross the route outside the communication area.

2. The remote driving server according to claim 1, characterized in that The various information also includes information on the location of gas stations or charging stations; During the determination process, the processor further performs: When the route length is longer than the cruising distance, based on the location information of the gas station or charging station, the location information of the gas station or charging station located around the used location is transmitted to the user's terminal or the rental vehicle.

3. A remote driving method, which is a method for providing a rental vehicle service using remote driving using a server, characterized in that: The steps include: a step of receiving a request to return the rental vehicle including information on a location desired by the user at which the rental vehicle service has been used, from a terminal of the user who rented the rental vehicle or the rental vehicle; a step of retrieving a remote driving route of the rental vehicle after the user has completed use of the rental vehicle service based on the information of the use completion location and the information of the destination of the rental vehicle after the user has completed use of the rental vehicle service; the step of comparing the remote driving path with a communication area on a map; Based on the information of the cruising range of the rental vehicle, the step of comparing the cruising range with the length of the remote driving route; The step of transmitting information indicating permission to get off to the user terminal or the rental vehicle when all routes of the remote driving route are within the communication area and the route length is shorter than the cruising distance; as well as A step of transmitting information of an alternative location to the user's terminal or the rental vehicle when a portion of the remote driving route exists outside the communication area, wherein the information of the alternative location indicates a location on the remote driving route that does not cross a route located outside the communication area.

4. A storage medium storing a remote driving program that causes a server to execute a program for providing a rental vehicle service utilizing remote driving, characterized in that: The program causes the server to execute the following processing: receiving a request to return the rental vehicle, including information on a location at which the user has completed use of the rental vehicle service, from a terminal of a user who has rented the rental vehicle or the rental vehicle; retrieving a remote driving route of the rental vehicle after the user has completed using the rental vehicle service, based on the information of the use completion location and the information of the destination of the rental vehicle after the user has completed using the rental vehicle service; comparing the remote driving path to a communication area on a map; Based on the information about the cruising range of the rental vehicle, comparing the cruising range with the length of the remote driving route; When all the routes of the remote driving route are located inside the communication area and the route length is shorter than the cruising distance, transmitting information indicating permission to get off to the user terminal or the rental vehicle; as well as In a case where a portion of the remote driving route exists outside the communication area, information of an alternative location is sent to the user's terminal or the rental vehicle, wherein the information of the alternative location shows a location on the remote driving route that does not cross the route outside the communication area.

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