Information processing apparatus and information processing method

Abstract

The invention provides an information processing apparatus and an information processing method. The information processing apparatus controls a vehicle executing a first mode in which an air conditioning device is actuated by electric power of a battery and a second mode in which the air conditioning device is actuated by electric power generated using power of an internal combustion engine. The information processing apparatus includes a processor. The processor determines whether a remaining amount of the battery is equal to or higher than a first threshold in response to receiving an actuation request of the air conditioning device caused by a remote operation. When a determination is made that the remaining amount of the battery is lower than the first threshold value, the processor determines whether a predetermined condition, which is an execution condition of the second mode, is satisfied. When a determination is made that the predetermined condition is satisfied, the processor controls the vehicle such that the second mode is executed.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an information processing apparatus and an information processing method. Background Art

[0002] In an electric air conditioner that is installed in a hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) or a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) and is actuated by a timer or a remote operation, the following technique is known: when the remaining amount of a battery is equal to or lower than a predetermined level, the air conditioner is actuated while charging the battery by actuating an internal combustion engine (for example, Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2012-188062 and Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2009-120022). Summary of the Invention

[0003] The present disclosure provides a technique for more suitably controlling an air conditioner according to a remote operation.

[0004] A solution of the present disclosure is an information processing apparatus that controls a vehicle that executes a first mode and a second mode, the first mode being a mode in which an air conditioner is actuated by electric power of a battery, and the second mode being a mode in which the air conditioner is actuated by electric power generated by power of an internal combustion engine.

[0005] The information processing apparatus includes a processor.

[0006] The processor is configured to:

[0007] receive an actuation request for the air conditioner caused by a remote operation;

[0008] in response to receiving the actuation request, determine whether the remaining amount of the battery is equal to or higher than a first threshold;

[0009] in response to determining that the remaining amount of the battery is lower than the first threshold, determine whether a predetermined condition that is an execution condition of the second mode is satisfied; and

[0010] in response to determining that the predetermined condition is satisfied, control the vehicle so that the second mode is executed.

[0011] Another solution of the present disclosure is an information processing method for controlling a vehicle that executes a first mode and a second mode, the first mode being a mode in which an air conditioner is actuated by electric power of a battery, and the second mode being a mode in which the air conditioner is actuated by electric power generated by power of an internal combustion engine.

[0012] The information processing method includes:

[0013] receiving an actuation request for the air conditioner caused by a remote operation;

[0014] In response to receiving the actuation request, determine whether the remaining amount of the battery is equal to or higher than a first threshold;

[0015] In response to determining that the remaining amount of the battery is lower than the first threshold, determine whether a predetermined condition that is an execution condition of the second mode is satisfied; and

[0016] In response to determining that the predetermined condition is satisfied, control the vehicle such that the second mode is executed.

[0017] In addition, another aspect of the present disclosure may be a program that causes a computer to execute the above information processing method, or a non-transitory storage medium that stores the program so as to be readable by a computer.

[0018] The present disclosure can provide the following technology: making it possible to more suitably execute control of an air conditioner device based on remote operation. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0019] Features, advantages, and technical and industrial significance of exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings, in which like reference numerals represent like elements, and in which:

[0020] Figure 1 A diagram showing a schematic configuration of a system in an embodiment;

[0021] Figure 2 A diagram schematically showing respective exemplary hardware configurations of a vehicle, a user terminal, and a server included in the system in an embodiment;

[0022] Figure 3 A diagram schematically showing exemplary vehicle information in an embodiment;

[0023] Figure 4 A diagram schematically showing an exemplary remote signal in an embodiment;

[0024] Figure 5 A diagram schematically showing exemplary vehicle data in an embodiment;

[0025] Figure 6 A block diagram schematically showing an exemplary software configuration of a server in an embodiment;

[0026] Figure 7 A diagram schematically showing exemplary first and second actuation commands in an embodiment;

[0027] Figure 8 A flowchart showing an exemplary processing routine executed by a server in an embodiment;

[0028] Figure 9 A diagram showing an exemplary selection screen in a variant example;

[0029] Figure 10 A flowchart showing an exemplary processing routine executed by a server in a variant example;

[0030] Figure 11 A diagram showing an exemplary second actuation command in a variant example; and

[0031] Figure 12 A diagram showing another exemplary second actuation command in a variant example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0032] In recent years, remote air conditioners that actuated the air conditioner of a parked vehicle by remote operation by a user through a terminal such as a smart phone have become popular. As an example, the following technology is known. In an HEV or PHEV equipped with an electric air conditioner, when a request for actuating the air conditioner by remote operation is generated, if the remaining amount of the battery is equal to or higher than a threshold value, the technology actuates the air conditioner by the power of the battery without actuating the internal combustion engine, and if the remaining amount of the battery is lower than the threshold value, the air conditioner is actuated by the power of the battery while charging the battery by actuating the internal combustion engine.

[0033] Depending on the state of the vehicle or the parking environment of the vehicle, there may be a situation where it is not desirable to perform remote air conditioning by actuating the internal combustion engine. For example, when the remaining amount of fuel in the internal combustion engine is small, when the vehicle is parked in a place where it is not suitable for the internal combustion engine to idle, or when performing remote air conditioning by actuating the internal combustion engine in other cases, there is a possibility of excessively shortening the drivable distance of the vehicle or affecting the environment around the vehicle (for example, noise, exhaust gas, etc.). Therefore, there is room for improvement in the control of the air conditioner according to remote operation.

[0034] An information processing device according to the present disclosure controls a vehicle configured to be capable of executing a first mode and a second mode. In the first mode, the air conditioner is actuated by the power of the battery, and in the second mode, the air conditioner is actuated by the power generated using the power of the internal combustion engine. For example, a vehicle that is a control target of the information processing device according to the present disclosure is an HEV or PHEV equipped with an electric air conditioner. In the information processing device according to the present disclosure, a control unit receives a request for actuating the air conditioner generated by remote operation. As an example, the actuation request may be sent from a terminal used by a user of the vehicle to the information processing device through a network.

[0035] In response to receiving an actuation request, the control unit determines whether the execution conditions for the first mode are satisfied. As an example, the execution conditions for the first mode in the present disclosure may include the condition that the remaining amount (state of charge (SOC)) of the battery is equal to or higher than a first threshold. The first threshold is the lower limit of the remaining battery power for which it is desired that the execution of the remote air conditioner in the first mode does not affect the driving of the vehicle, etc. As an example, the first threshold may be set to a larger value as the capacity of the battery is lower. In the case where it is determined that the execution conditions for the first mode are satisfied, the control unit controls the vehicle so that the first mode is executed. In this case, the air conditioner device can be actuated using the power of the battery without actuating the internal combustion engine.

[0036] In addition, in the case where it is determined that the execution conditions for the first mode are not satisfied, the control unit determines whether the execution conditions (predetermined conditions) for the second mode are satisfied. For example, the predetermined conditions in the present disclosure may include at least one of the condition that the remaining amount of fuel in the internal combustion engine is equal to or greater than a second threshold, and the condition that the parking position of the vehicle does not fall within a predetermined area (an area not suitable for executing the second mode). The second threshold is the lower limit of the remaining fuel for which it is desired that the execution of the remote air conditioner in the second mode does not affect the driving of the vehicle, etc. As an example, the second threshold may be set to a larger value as the fuel consumption rate (g / PS·h or g / kW·h) of the internal combustion engine is higher. As an example, the predetermined area may be an area where idling of the internal combustion engine is prohibited (idling prohibited area). As another example, the predetermined area may be an indoor area.

[0037] As an example, the determination of whether the parking position of the vehicle falls within the predetermined area may be performed by a method of comparing map information registering the position of the predetermined area with the position information about the vehicle. As another example, the determination of whether the parking position of the vehicle falls within the predetermined area may be performed based on the captured image of a camera equipped in the vehicle and / or the detection signal of a sensor equipped in the vehicle.

[0038] In the case where it is determined that the predetermined conditions are satisfied, the control unit controls the vehicle so that the second mode is executed. In this case, by actuating the internal combustion engine and using the power of the internal combustion engine to generate electricity, it is possible to charge the battery while actuating the air conditioner device using the power of the battery.

[0039] In addition, in the case where it is determined that the predetermined conditions are not satisfied, the control unit neither executes the control for executing the first mode nor executes the control for executing the second mode. Thereby, it is possible to restrict the execution of the remote air conditioner in a case where there is a possibility of excessively shortening the drivable distance of the vehicle or affecting the environment around the vehicle.

[0040] With the information processing device according to the present disclosure, it is possible to more appropriately execute the control of the air conditioner device based on a remote operation.

[0041] When it is determined that neither the execution condition of the first mode nor the execution condition of the second mode (predetermined condition) is satisfied, the control unit may inquire about the user's intention and then may control the vehicle so that the second mode is executed. As an example, the method of inquiring about the user's intention may be as follows: the control unit sends a command to the terminal used by the user of the vehicle to display a screen for selecting whether to execute the second mode. Subsequently, when a selection operation indicating that the second mode needs to be executed has been input to the terminal, a signal indicating that the selection indicating that the second mode needs to be executed has been performed may be sent from the terminal to the information processing device. In the information processing device that has received this signal, the control unit may control the vehicle so that the second mode is executed. In addition, information indicating that neither the execution condition of the first mode nor the execution condition of the second mode (predetermined condition) is satisfied may be displayed on the screen for selecting whether to execute the second mode. Thus, for example, when there is a reason to require remote air conditioning, remote air conditioning can be executed exceptionally.

[0042] When remotely controlling the air conditioner exceptionally as described above, the control unit may control the vehicle so that the second mode is executed under a state where a predetermined restriction is imposed. As an example, the predetermined restriction may include restricting the actuation time of the internal combustion engine to be equal to or shorter than a predetermined time. In addition, as another example, the predetermined restriction may include restricting the load of the internal combustion engine to be equal to or lower than a predetermined load. Thus, it is possible to execute remote air conditioning while minimizing the fuel consumption caused by the execution of the second mode.

[0043] Embodiments of the present disclosure will be described below based on the drawings. The configurations of the following embodiments are examples, and the embodiments described below are merely examples of the present disclosure in various aspects. Various improvements and modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For implementing the present disclosure, the specific configurations according to the embodiments can be adopted as appropriate. The data mentioned in the embodiments is described in natural language, but more specifically, it is specified in a virtual language, command, parameter, machine language, etc. that can be recognized by a computer.

[0044] Embodiment

[0045] Figure 1 FIG. is a diagram schematically showing an exemplary system to which the present disclosure is applied. The system according to the embodiment is configured to include a vehicle 10, a user terminal 20, and a server 30. In Figure 1 this, only one vehicle 10 and only one user terminal 20 are illustrated, but the system can include a plurality of vehicles 10 and a plurality of user terminals 20 managed by the server 30.

[0046] The vehicle 10 is an HEV or PHEV equipped with an air conditioning device 120, a battery 130, an electric motor 140, an internal combustion engine 150, a generator 160, etc., which will be described later. The vehicle 10 in the embodiment is configured to be able to perform remote air conditioning in a first mode and remote air conditioning in a second mode. Remote air conditioning means actuating the air conditioning device 120 of the vehicle 10 in a parked state (a state where the power switch or ignition switch has been turned off) through remote operation. The first mode adopts the following technology: without actuating the internal combustion engine 150, the power of the battery 130 is used to actuate the air conditioning device 120. The second mode adopts the following technology: while generating electricity (charging the battery 130) by actuating the internal combustion engine 150 and using the generator 160, the power of the battery 130 is used to actuate the air conditioning device 120. The user terminal 20 is a computer used by the user of the vehicle 10. The server 30 is composed of one or more computers that perform processing related to the remote operation of the vehicle 10.

[0047] In the system of the embodiment, before the user enters the vehicle 10 in a parked state (a state where the power switch or ignition switch has been turned off), the user inputs an operation for actuating the air conditioning device to the user terminal 20. The user terminal 20 that has input the operation sends a remote signal to the server 30. The remote signal is a signal including an actuation requirement for the air conditioning device, the target temperature inside the vehicle 10 (the cabin), etc.

[0048] The server 30 that has received the remote signal acquires information about the vehicle 10 (vehicle information). As an example, the server 30 can cause the vehicle 10 to provide vehicle information to the server 30 by sending a signal requesting vehicle information to the vehicle 10 (occasionally referred to as a "request signal" hereinafter). As an example, the vehicle information may include an identification code of the vehicle 10 (vehicle ID), the remaining battery charge (SOC) of the battery equipped in the vehicle 10, the amount of fuel stored in the fuel tank equipped in the vehicle 10 (remaining fuel amount), position information about the vehicle 10 (information indicating the current position of the vehicle 10), etc.

[0049] Based on the acquired vehicle information, the server 30 determines whether the execution conditions of the first mode (occasionally referred to as the "first condition" hereinafter) are satisfied. The details of the first condition will be described later. When it is determined that the first condition is satisfied, the server 30 sends a command to actuate the air conditioning device 120 in the first mode (the first actuation command) to the vehicle 10. The first actuation command is a signal including information specifying the first mode, the target temperature of the cabin, etc. In the vehicle 10 that has received the first actuation command, the air conditioning device 120 is actuated in the first mode.

[0050] In the case where it is determined that the first condition is not satisfied, the server 30 determines whether the execution condition of the second mode (hereinafter occasionally referred to as the "second condition") is satisfied. Details of the second condition will be described later. In the case where it is determined that the second condition is satisfied, the server 30 sends a command (second actuation command) to actuate the air conditioner 120 in the second mode to the vehicle 10. The second actuation command is a signal including information specifying the second mode, the target temperature of the passenger compartment, and the like. In the vehicle 10 that has received the second actuation command, the air conditioner 120 is actuated in the second mode.

[0051] In the case where it is determined that the second condition is not satisfied, the server 30 neither sends the first actuation command nor sends the second actuation command to the vehicle 10. In this case, in the vehicle 10, the air conditioner 120 is not actuated.

[0052] Hardware configuration of the system

[0053] Based on Figure 2 The corresponding hardware configurations of the vehicle 10, the user terminal 20, and the server 30 in the system in the embodiment will be described. Figure 2 FIG. is a diagram schematically showing the corresponding exemplary hardware configurations of the vehicle 10, the user terminal 20, and the server 30 in the system included in the embodiment.

[0054] Vehicle

[0055] First, the exemplary hardware configuration of the vehicle 10 will be described. As described above, the vehicle 10 in the embodiment is an HEV or a PHEV. As Figure 2 shown, the vehicle 10 in the embodiment is configured to include an in-vehicle terminal 100, an electronic control unit (ECU) 110, an air conditioner 120, a battery 130, an electric motor 140, an internal combustion engine 150, a generator 160, a position acquisition unit 170, and a remaining fuel amount sensor 180. Based on standards such as Controller Area Network (CAN), Local Interconnect Network (LIN), or FlexRay, the in-vehicle terminal 100, the ECU 110, the air conditioner 120, the battery 130, the electric motor 140, the internal combustion engine 150, the generator 160, the position acquisition unit 170, and the remaining fuel amount sensor 180 are connected to each other through the in-vehicle network.

[0056] In Figure 2 only the hardware components related to the remote air conditioner are extracted and illustrated, and Figure 2 hardware components other than the hardware components shown can be equipped in the vehicle 10.

[0057] The in-vehicle terminal 100 is a computer equipped in the vehicle 10 and communicating with the server 30 through the network N1. As Figure 2As shown, the in-vehicle terminal 100 includes a processor 101, a main storage device 102, an auxiliary storage device 103, and a communication I / F 104. The processor 101, the main storage device 102, the auxiliary storage device 103, and the communication I / F 104 are connected to each other via a bus.

[0058] The processor 101 is an arithmetic processing unit such as a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), or a digital signal processor (DSP). The processor 101 controls the in-vehicle terminal 100 by loading a program stored in the auxiliary storage device 103 onto the main storage device 102 and executing the program.

[0059] For example, the main storage device 102 is configured to include a semiconductor memory such as a random access memory (RAM) and a read-only memory (ROM). The main storage device 102 provides a storage area and a working area for loading a program stored in the auxiliary storage device 103. In addition, the main storage device 102 is used as a cache for arithmetic processing performed by the processor 101.

[0060] For example, the auxiliary storage device 103 is an erasable programmable ROM (EPROM) or a hard disk drive (HDD). The auxiliary storage device 103 can include a removable medium, that is, a portable recording medium. For example, the removable medium is an optical disc recording medium such as a universal serial bus (USB) memory, a compact disc (CD), or a digital versatile disc (DVD). The auxiliary storage device 103 stores various programs, as well as data used by the processor 101 to execute the programs, etc.

[0061] In addition to the operating system (OS), the programs stored in the auxiliary storage device 103 also include a dedicated program for causing the processor 101 to perform processing related to a remote air conditioner, the vehicle ID of the vehicle 10, etc. Some or all of the information stored in the auxiliary storage device 103 can be stored in the main storage device 102. In addition, some of the information stored in the main storage device 102 can be stored in the auxiliary storage device 103. In addition, the vehicle ID can be held by the ECU 110 described later.

[0062] The communication I / F 104 is configured to include a communication interface for connecting the in-vehicle terminal 100 to the in-vehicle network and a communication interface for connecting the in-vehicle terminal 100 to the network N1 outside the vehicle. In an embodiment, the communication I / F 104 communicates with the ECU 110 via the in-vehicle network. Further, in an embodiment, the communication I / F 104 communicates with the server 30 via the network N1 outside the vehicle. For example, the network N1 outside the vehicle is a wide area network (WAN) which is a global-scale public communication network exemplified by the Internet, or other communication networks. The communication I / F 104 connects the in-vehicle terminal 100 to the network N1 using a mobile communication system (e.g., fifth generation (5G), sixth generation (6G), etc.) or a wireless communication system such as Wi-Fi(R).

[0063] In the in-vehicle terminal 100 having the above configuration, when the communication I / F 104 receives a request signal sent from the server 300, the processor 101 generates vehicle information. As an example, the processor 101 is connected to the in-vehicle network via the communication I / F 104 and communicates with the ECU 110 via the in-vehicle network. Thereby, the processor 101 obtains the remaining battery level (SOC) of the battery 130, the remaining fuel quantity in the fuel tank, and the location information about the vehicle 10. Subsequently, the processor 101 generates vehicle information including the data obtained from the ECU 110. As an example, as Figure 3 shown, the vehicle information may include a vehicle ID, the remaining battery level (SOC) of the battery 130, the remaining fuel quantity in the fuel tank, the location information about the vehicle 10, etc. The vehicle ID included in the vehicle information is the same as the vehicle ID stored in the auxiliary storage device 103. When the vehicle information is generated as described above, the processor 101 of the in-vehicle terminal 100 is connected to the network N1 outside the vehicle via the communication I / F 104 and sends the vehicle information to the server 30 via the network N1.

[0064] Further, in the in-vehicle terminal 100, when the communication I / F 104 receives a first actuation command or a second actuation command sent from the server 30, the processor 101 sends the received first actuation command or second actuation command to the ECU 110 via the communication I / F 104 and the in-vehicle network.

[0065] Next, the air conditioner 120 is an electric air conditioner that uses the power of the battery 130 to perform air cooling or air heating in the passenger compartment of the vehicle 10. The battery 130 supplies power to the motor 140 and the air conditioner 120. The motor 140 is operated using the power supplied from the battery 130. The internal combustion engine 150 is operated using fuel stored in a fuel tank provided in the vehicle 10. As an example, the motor 140 and the internal combustion engine 150 can cooperate to drive the vehicle 10. As another example, the motor 140 can drive the vehicle 10, while the internal combustion engine 150 can drive a generator 160 described later to charge the battery 130. The generator 160 generates electricity by converting the kinetic energy generated by the internal combustion engine 150 into electrical energy. The generator 160 can perform so-called electric regeneration, in which the kinetic energy of the drive wheels is converted into electrical energy when the vehicle 10 decelerates. The position acquisition unit 170 acquires the current position of the vehicle 10 (geographical coordinates such as latitude and longitude). As an example, the position acquisition unit 170 can be configured to include a Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver. As another example, the position acquisition unit 170 can be a wireless communication circuit for a location information service using Wi-Fi(R). The remaining fuel quantity sensor 180 measures the amount of fuel stored in the fuel tank (remaining fuel quantity).

[0066] The ECU 110 is a computer that controls in-vehicle devices such as the air conditioner 120, the motor 140, the internal combustion engine 150, and the generator 160. In an embodiment, the ECU 110 is configured to provide the SOC of the battery 130, the remaining fuel quantity of the fuel tank, and location information about the vehicle 10 to the in-vehicle terminal 100 in response to a request from the in-vehicle terminal 100. In this case, the ECU 110 can calculate the SOC of the battery 130 using a known method such as the OCV method or the current integration method. In addition, the ECU 110 can acquire the remaining fuel quantity of the fuel tank through the remaining fuel quantity sensor 180. In addition, the ECU 110 can acquire location information about the vehicle 10 through the position acquisition unit 170.

[0067] In addition, the ECU 110 in the embodiment also has a function of controlling the air conditioner 120 in response to a first actuation command or a second actuation command sent from the in-vehicle terminal 100 to the ECU 110. Specifically, in response to receiving the first actuation command sent from the in-vehicle terminal 100, the ECU 110 actuates the air conditioner 120 at a target temperature included in the first actuation command. Thus, in the vehicle 10, the first mode of remote air conditioning is executed. In addition, in response to receiving the second actuation command sent from the in-vehicle terminal 100, the ECU 110 actuates the internal combustion engine 150 and the generator 160 to charge the battery 130, and actuates the air conditioner 120 at a target temperature included in the second actuation command. Thus, in the vehicle 10, the second mode of remote air conditioning is executed.

[0068] User terminal

[0069] Next, an exemplary hardware configuration of the user terminal 20 will be described. The user terminal 20 in the embodiment is a computer used by a user of the vehicle 10. For example, the user terminal 20 may be a smart phone, a tablet terminal, a wearable computer, a personal computer (PC), etc. As Figure 2 shown, the user terminal 20 in the embodiment is configured to include a processor 201, a main storage device 202, an auxiliary storage device 203, an input-output device 204, and a communication I / F 205. The processor 201, the main storage device 202, the auxiliary storage device 203, the input-output device 204, and the communication I / F 205 are connected to each other via a bus.

[0070] In Figure 2 , only the hardware components related to the remote air conditioner are extracted and illustrated, and Figure 2 hardware components other than the illustrated hardware components can be included in the user terminal 20.

[0071] The processor 201, the main storage device 202, and the auxiliary storage device 203 of the user terminal 20 are the same as the processor 101, the main storage device 102, and the auxiliary storage device 103 of the in-vehicle terminal 100, respectively, and thus their descriptions are omitted. The auxiliary storage device 203 of the user terminal 20 stores a dedicated program (application program) that causes the processor 201 to execute functions related to the remote air conditioner.

[0072] The input-output device 204 accepts input operations performed by the user and presents information to the user. For example, the input-output device 204 is configured to include a touch panel display and a control circuit for the touch panel display. In the embodiment, the input-output device 204 outputs an operation screen for the remote air conditioner (for example, a screen including an actuation request button for the air conditioner device 120, a selection bar for the target temperature of the passenger compartment, etc.), and accepts operations input on the operation screen. Information related to the operation accepted by the input-output device 204 is output from the input-output device 204 to the processor 201.

[0073] The communication I / F 205 is configured to include a communication interface for connecting the user terminal 20 to the network N1. The communication I / F 205 connects the user terminal 20 to the network N1 via a mobile communication system, a wireless communication system such as Wi-Fi(R), LAN, etc. In the embodiment, the communication I / F 205 communicates with the server 30 via the network N1.

[0074] In the user terminal 20 with the above configuration, when an operation of the remote air conditioner is input to the input-output device 204 while the operation screen of the remote air conditioner is displayed on the input-output device 204 (for example, the target temperature of the passenger compartment is selected and the actuation request button is pressed), the processor 201 sends a remote signal to the server 30 through the communication I / F 205. As an example, as Figure 4 shown, the remote signal includes the vehicle ID of the vehicle 10, the actuation request of the air conditioner device 120, and the target temperature of the passenger compartment.

[0075] Server

[0076] Next, an exemplary hardware configuration of the server 30 will be described. The server 30 in the embodiment is a computer operated by a provider of the remote air conditioner service. For example, the provider of the remote air conditioner service is a manufacturer of the vehicle 10, an operator commissioned by the manufacturer, etc. As Figure 2 shown, the server 30 is configured to include a processor 301, a main storage device 302, an auxiliary storage device 303, and a communication I / F 304.

[0077] In Figure 2 , only the hardware components related to the remote air conditioner are extracted and illustrated, and Figure 2 hardware components other than the illustrated hardware components can be included in the server 30.

[0078] The processor 301, the main storage device 302, and the auxiliary storage device 303 of the server 30 are the same as the processor 101, the main storage device 102, and the auxiliary storage device 103 of the in-vehicle terminal 100, respectively, and thus their descriptions are omitted. In addition to the OS and a dedicated program that causes the processor 101 to perform processing related to the remote air conditioner, the auxiliary storage device 303 of the server 30 also stores data such as vehicle data 331 and map data 332.

[0079] Based on Figure 5 , the vehicle data 331 stored in the auxiliary storage device 303 will be described. Figure 5 is a diagram schematically showing an example of the vehicle data 331. In Figure 5 the example shown, the vehicle data 331 includes a plurality of records, each of the plurality of records corresponding to one vehicle. Each of the plurality of records included in the vehicle data 331 includes a vehicle ID field, a first threshold field, and a second threshold field.

[0080] In the vehicle ID field, information for identifying each of the plurality of vehicles 10 under the management of the server 30 is registered. The information registered in the vehicle ID field may be the same as the vehicle ID held by the in-vehicle terminal 100 (auxiliary storage device 103) of the vehicle 10.

[0081] In the first threshold field, corresponding first thresholds for a plurality of vehicles 10 under the management of the server 30 are registered. The first threshold is the lower limit of the remaining battery power (SOC) for remotely operating the air conditioner in the first mode without desiring to affect the running of the vehicle or the like. As an example, the first threshold may be determined based on the capacity of each battery 130 in the plurality of vehicles 10 under the management of the server 30. In this case, the first threshold may be set to a value that becomes larger as the capacity of the battery 130 becomes lower.

[0082] In the second threshold field, corresponding second thresholds for a plurality of vehicles 10 under the management of the server 30 are registered. The second threshold is the lower limit of the remaining fuel amount for remotely operating the air conditioner in the second mode without desiring to affect the running of the vehicle or the like. As an example, the second threshold may be determined based on the fuel consumption rate (g / PS·h or g / kW·h) of each internal combustion engine in the plurality of vehicles 10 under the management of the server 30. In this case, the second threshold may be set to a value that becomes larger as the fuel consumption rate (g / PS·h or g / kW·h) of the internal combustion engine 150 becomes higher.

[0083] Returning to Figure 2 the description, the map data 332 stored in the auxiliary storage device 303 of the server 30 will be described. The map data 332 includes map data and information for identifying whether each location on the map data falls within a predetermined area. The predetermined area includes an idling prohibited area (for example, a parking lot of a store in a residential area, a parking lot in an environmental protection area, etc.) and an indoor area (for example, a parking lot surrounded by a roof and walls, etc.). The map data 332 may be provided from an external device connected to the server 30 via the network N1.

[0084] The communication I / F 304 of the server 30 is a communication interface for connecting the server 30 to the network N1. As an example, the communication I / F 304 may be configured to include a network interface board, a wireless communication interface for wireless communication, etc. In an embodiment, the communication I / F 304 communicates with the user terminal 20 and the in-vehicle terminal 100 via the network N1.

[0085] In the hardware configuration of the server 30, exclusion, replacement, and addition of components can be performed as appropriate according to the embodiment. For example, the server 30 may include a plurality of processors. In addition, the server 30 may be configured to include a plurality of computers. In addition, the server 30 may be configured to include an external storage device connected via the network N1.

[0086] Software configuration of the server

[0087] Next, based on Figure 6 the description, the software configuration of the server 30 will be described. Figure 6A block diagram schematically showing an exemplary software configuration of the server 30. The processor 301 executes a program stored in the auxiliary storage device 303, and thereby, the server 30 acts as a computer including a receiving unit F31, an acquiring unit F32, a determining unit F33, and a command unit F34 as software modules.

[0088] At least a part of the receiving unit F31, the acquiring unit F32, the determining unit F33, and the command unit F34 can be implemented by a hardware circuit such as an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) or a field programmable gate array (FPGA).

[0089] The receiving unit F31 receives a remote signal sent from the user terminal 20 to the server 30 through the communication I / F 304. When the receiving unit F31 receives the remote signal, the processor 301 of the server 30 acts as the acquiring unit F32.

[0090] The acquiring unit F32 acquires vehicle information from the vehicle 10 (hereinafter, occasionally referred to as the “target vehicle 10”) that is the target of the remote signal. Specifically, first, the acquiring unit F32 specifies the in-vehicle terminal 100 of the target vehicle 10 based on the vehicle ID included in the remote signal (see Figure 4 ). Subsequently, the acquiring unit F32 sends a request signal to the specified in-vehicle terminal 100 through the communication I / F 304. As described above, the request signal is a signal for requesting vehicle information about the target vehicle 10.

[0091] When a vehicle signal is sent from the in-vehicle terminal 100 of the target vehicle 10 to the server 30 in response to the request signal, the acquiring unit F32 acquires the vehicle information through the communication I / F 304. When the acquiring unit F32 acquires the vehicle information, the processor 301 of the server 30 acts as the determining unit F33.

[0092] Based on the vehicle information about the target vehicle 10, the determining unit F33 determines whether the execution conditions for the remote air conditioner are satisfied. Specifically, first, the determining unit F33 determines whether the execution conditions for the first mode (first condition) are satisfied. The first condition in the embodiment includes the condition that the remaining battery level (SOC) of the target vehicle 10 is equal to or higher than the first threshold. Using the vehicle information included (see Figure 3) determines whether the first condition is satisfied based on the remaining battery power (SOC) in [[]] and the vehicle data 331 stored in the auxiliary storage device 303. Specifically, the determination unit F33 uses the vehicle ID included in the vehicle information as an independent variable to access the vehicle data 331, and designates a record in which information consistent with the vehicle ID included in the vehicle information is registered in the vehicle ID field. The determination unit F33 compares the first threshold registered in the first threshold field of the designated record with the remaining battery power (SOC) included in the vehicle information. When the remaining battery power (SOC) is equal to or higher than the first threshold, the determination unit F33 determines that the first condition is satisfied. On the other hand, when the remaining battery power (SOC) is lower than the first threshold, the determination unit F33 determines that the first condition is not satisfied.

[0093] When it is determined that the first condition is not satisfied, the determination unit F33 determines whether the execution condition (second condition) of the second mode is satisfied. The second condition in the embodiment includes the condition that the remaining fuel amount of the target vehicle 10 is equal to or greater than the second threshold and the condition that the current position of the target vehicle 10 is outside a predetermined area (corresponding to the "predetermined condition" in the present disclosure). Whether the second condition is satisfied is determined using the remaining fuel amount included in the vehicle information, the position information included in the vehicle information, the vehicle data 331 stored in the auxiliary storage device 303, and the map data 332 stored in the auxiliary storage device 303. Specifically, the determination unit F33 uses the vehicle ID included in the vehicle information as an independent variable to access the vehicle data 331, and designates a record in which information consistent with the vehicle ID included in the vehicle information is registered in the vehicle ID field. The determination unit F33 compares the second threshold registered in the second threshold field of the designated record with the remaining fuel amount included in the vehicle information. In addition, the determination unit F33 checks the position information included in the vehicle information and the map data 332 stored in the auxiliary storage device 303. When the remaining fuel amount is equal to or higher than the second threshold and the current position of the target vehicle 10 is outside the predetermined area, the determination unit F33 determines that the second condition is satisfied. In addition, when the remaining fuel amount is less than the second threshold and / or the current position of the target vehicle 10 is within the predetermined area, the determination unit F33 determines that the second condition is not satisfied.

[0094] When the target vehicle 10 is equipped with a camera, a sensor for detecting objects around the target vehicle 10 (such as a sign indicating idling prohibition, a roof, a wall, etc.), etc., based on the detection results of the camera, the sensor, etc., the determination unit F33 can determine whether the current position of the target vehicle 10 is outside the predetermined area. When this method is adopted, vehicle information including the detection results of the camera, the sensor, etc. of the target vehicle 10 can be provided from the in-vehicle terminal 100 to the server 30.

[0095] When the determination process performed by the determination unit F33 ends, the processor 301 of the server 30 acts as the command unit F34.

[0096] The command unit F34 sends a command to one of the in-vehicle terminal 100 of the target vehicle 10 and the user terminal 20 based on the determination result of the determination unit F33. When the determination unit F33 determines that the first condition is satisfied, the command unit F34 sends a first actuation command to the in-vehicle terminal 100 of the target vehicle 10 through the communication I / F 304. As Figure 7 shown, the first actuation command includes information specifying the mode of the remote air conditioner (in this case, information specifying the first mode), the target temperature of the passenger compartment, and the like. The target temperature of the passenger compartment can be the same as the target temperature included in the remote signal received from the user terminal 20.

[0097] When the in-vehicle terminal 100 of the target vehicle 10 receives the first actuation command sent from the command unit F34, the first actuation command is sent from the in-vehicle terminal 100 to the ECU 110 through the in-vehicle network. The ECU 110 that has received the first actuation command actuates the air conditioner 120 in the first mode. That is, in a state where the internal combustion engine 150 and the generator 160 are not actuated, the ECU 110 uses the power of the battery 130 to actuate the air conditioner 120. In this case, the ECU 110 controls the air conditioner 120 so that the temperature of the passenger compartment becomes the target temperature included in the first actuation command.

[0098] In addition, when the determination unit F33 determines that the first condition is not satisfied and the second condition is satisfied, the command unit F34 sends a second actuation command to the in-vehicle terminal 100 of the target vehicle 10 through the communication I / F 304. Similar to the first actuation command, the second actuation command includes information specifying the mode of the remote air conditioner (in this case, information specifying the second mode), the target temperature of the passenger compartment, and the like (see Figure 7 ).

[0099] When the in-vehicle terminal 100 of the target vehicle 10 receives the second actuation command sent from the command unit F34, the second actuation command is sent from the in-vehicle terminal 100 to the ECU 110 through the in-vehicle network. The ECU 110 that has received the second actuation command actuates the air conditioner 120 in the second mode. That is, the ECU 110 charges the battery 130 by actuating the internal combustion engine 150 and the generator 160, and uses the power of the battery 130 to actuate the air conditioner 120. In this case, the ECU 110 controls the air conditioner 120 so that the temperature of the passenger compartment becomes the target temperature included in the second actuation command.

[0100] In addition, in a case where the determination unit F33 determines that neither the first condition nor the second condition is satisfied, the command unit F34 sends a display command to the user terminal 20 via the communication I / F 304. The display command in the embodiment is a command for displaying information indicating that the remote air conditioning has not been executed. The display command may include a command for displaying information related to the reason why the remote air conditioning has not been executed (for example, information indicating that the remaining battery level (SOC) is lower than a first threshold, the remaining fuel amount is less than a second threshold, or the vehicle 10 is within a predetermined area).

[0101] When the user terminal 20 receives the display command sent from the command unit F34, the processor 201 of the user terminal 20 causes the input-output device 204 to display information indicating that the remote air conditioning has not been executed, and information related to the reason why the remote air conditioning has not been executed. Thereby, the user of the target vehicle 10 can know that the remote air conditioning has not been executed and the reason why the remote air conditioning has not been executed.

[0102] In a case where the remote air conditioning has been executed in the first mode or the second mode, the command unit F34 may send a command for displaying information indicating that the remote air conditioning has been executed in the first mode or the second mode to the user terminal 20. In this case, the user of the target vehicle 10 can know whether the remote air conditioning has been executed in the first mode or the second mode.

[0103] The software configuration of the server 30 is not limited to Figure 6 the example shown, and can perform exclusion, replacement, and addition of software component elements as appropriate according to the embodiment.

[0104] Flow of processing

[0105] Next, based on Figure 8 the flow of processing executed by the server 30 in the embodiment will be described. Figure 8 FIG. is a flowchart showing an exemplary processing routine executed by the server 30 when receiving a remote signal sent from the user terminal 20. Figure 8 The execution subject of the processing routine in is the processor 301 of the server 30. However, the description will be made while regarding the software module of the server 30 as the execution subject.

[0106] When the communication I / F 304 of the server 30 receives a remote signal sent from the user terminal 20, by executing a program in the auxiliary storage device 303, the processor 301 of the server 30 acts as a receiving unit F31. The receiving unit F31 receives a remote signal sent from the user via the communication I / F 304. When the receiving unit F31 finishes executing the processing in step S101, the processor 301 of the server 30 acts as an acquisition unit F32 and executes the processing in step S102.

[0107] In step S102, acquisition unit F32 acquires vehicle information of vehicle 10 (target vehicle 10) that is the target of the remote signal. Specifically, first, acquisition unit F32 designates in-vehicle terminal 100 of target vehicle 10 based on the vehicle ID included in the remote signal (see Figure 4 ). Subsequently, acquisition unit F32 sends a request signal to the designated in-vehicle terminal 100 through communication I / F 304. Then, when vehicle information is sent from in-vehicle terminal 100 of target vehicle 10 to server 30 in response to the request signal, acquisition unit F32 acquires the vehicle information through communication I / F 304. When acquisition unit F32 finishes the processing in step S102, processor 301 of server 30 acts as determination unit F33 and executes the processing in step S103.

[0108] In step S103, determination unit F33 determines whether the first condition is satisfied based on the vehicle information acquired from target vehicle 10. Specifically, first, determination unit F33 accesses vehicle data 331 using the vehicle ID included in the vehicle information as an independent variable and designates a record in which information consistent with the vehicle ID included in the vehicle information is registered in the vehicle ID field. Determination unit F33 compares the first threshold value registered in the first threshold field of the designated record with the remaining battery level (SOC) included in the vehicle information. When the remaining battery level (SOC) is equal to or higher than the first threshold value, determination unit F33 determines that the first condition is satisfied (positive determination in step S103). On the other hand, when the remaining battery level (SOC) is lower than the first threshold value, determination unit F33 determines that the first condition is not satisfied (negative determination in step S103).

[0109] In the case of making a positive determination in step S103 (when it is determined that the first condition is satisfied), processor 301 of server 30 acts as command unit F34 and executes the processing in step S104. In step S104, command unit F34 sends a first actuation command to in-vehicle terminal 100 of target vehicle 10 through communication I / F 304. As described above, the first actuation command includes information designating the first mode and the target temperature of the vehicle compartment.

[0110] When in-vehicle terminal 100 of target vehicle 10 receives the first actuation command sent from command unit F34, the first actuation command is sent from in-vehicle terminal 100 to ECU 110 through the in-vehicle network. ECU 110 that has received the first actuation command actuates air conditioner 120 in the first mode.

[0111] When command unit F34 finishes the processing in step S104, processor 301 of server 30 ends Figure 8 the execution of the processing routine shown.

[0112] In addition, in the case where a negative determination is made in step S103 (when it is determined that the first condition is not satisfied), the processor 301 of the server 30 acts as the determination unit F33 and executes the process in step S105. In step S105, the determination unit F33 determines whether the second condition is satisfied based on the vehicle information regarding the target vehicle 10. Specifically, the determination unit F33 compares the second threshold value in the second threshold field registered in the record specified in step S103 (the record among the multiple records included in the vehicle data 331, and in which the information consistent with the vehicle ID included in the vehicle information is registered in the vehicle ID field) with the remaining fuel amount included in the vehicle information. In addition, the determination unit F33 verifies the position information included in the vehicle information and the map data 332 stored in the auxiliary storage device 303. Subsequently, in the case where the remaining fuel amount is equal to or greater than the second threshold value and the current position of the target vehicle 10 is outside the predetermined area, the determination unit F33 determines that the second condition is satisfied (positive determination in step S105). On the other hand, in the case where the remaining fuel amount is less than the second threshold value and / or in the case where the current position of the target vehicle 10 is within the predetermined area, the determination unit F33 determines that the second condition is not satisfied (negative determination in step S105).

[0113] In the case where a positive determination is made in step S105 (when it is determined that the second condition is satisfied), the processor 301 of the server 30 acts as the command unit F34 and executes the process in step S106. In step S106, the command unit F34 sends a second actuation command to the in-vehicle terminal 100 of the target vehicle 10 through the communication I / F 304. As described above, the second actuation command includes information specifying the second mode and the target temperature of the vehicle compartment.

[0114] When the in-vehicle terminal 100 of the target vehicle 10 receives the second actuation command sent from the command unit F34, the second actuation command is sent from the in-vehicle terminal 100 to the ECU 110 through the in-vehicle network. The ECU 110 that has received the second actuation command actuates the air conditioner 120 in the second mode.

[0115] When the command unit F34 finishes executing the process in step S106, the processor 301 of the server 30 ends Figure 8 the execution of the processing routine shown.

[0116] In addition, in the case where a negative determination is made in step S105 (when it is determined that the second condition is not satisfied), the processor 301 of the server 30 acts as the command unit F34 and executes the process in step S107. In step S107, the command unit F34 sends a display command to the user terminal 20 used by the user of the target vehicle 10 through the communication I / F 304. The display command includes a command to display information indicating that the remote air conditioning has not been executed and information related to the reason why the remote air conditioning has not been executed.

[0117] When the user terminal 20 receives the display command sent from the server 30, the processor 201 of the user terminal 20 causes the input-output device 204 to display information indicating that the remote air conditioning has not been executed and information related to the reason why the remote air conditioning has not been executed.

[0118] When the command unit F34 finishes executing the process in step S107, the processor 301 of the server 30 ends Figure 8 the execution of the illustrated processing routine.

[0119] Function and effect of the embodiment

[0120] In the above embodiment, when the first condition (remaining battery power is equal to or higher than the first threshold) is not satisfied and the second condition (remaining fuel amount is equal to or greater than the second threshold and the current position of the target vehicle 10 is outside the predetermined area) is satisfied, the remote air conditioning is executed in the second mode. In addition, when the first condition is not satisfied and the second condition is not satisfied, the remote air conditioning in the second mode is not executed.

[0121] Therefore, in the embodiment, when the first condition is not satisfied, the remote air conditioning in the second mode can be executed under the condition that the remaining fuel amount is equal to or greater than the second threshold and the current position of the target vehicle 10 is outside the predetermined area. Thus, in the case where there is a possibility of excessively shortening the drivable distance of the target vehicle 10 or affecting the environment around the target vehicle 10, the execution of the remote air conditioning in the second mode can be restricted. Therefore, the control of the air conditioning device 120 based on remote operation can be performed more appropriately.

[0122] Modification

[0123] In the example described in the above embodiment, when neither the first condition nor the second condition is satisfied, neither the remote air conditioning in the first mode nor the remote air conditioning in the second mode is executed. However, when neither the first condition nor the second condition is satisfied, the user can select whether to execute the remote air conditioning in the second mode.

[0124] In a modified example, when the determination unit F33 of the server 30 determines that neither the first condition nor the second condition is satisfied, the command unit F34 sends a selection command to the user terminal 20 instead of a display command. The selection command is a command for the user to select whether remote air conditioning in the second mode needs to be executed. As an example, the selection command may be a command for the input / output device 204 of the user terminal 20 to display Figure 9 the selection screen shown. In Figure 9 the example shown, the selection screen includes a display bar ( Figure 9 D1 in) that describes the text information that neither the first condition nor the second condition is satisfied, a display bar ( Figure 9 D2 in) that prompts the user to select whether remote air conditioning in the second mode needs to be executed, and GUI components ( Figure 9 the actuation button G31 and the cancel button G32 in) for selecting whether remote air conditioning in the second mode needs to be executed.

[0125] When the user clicks the actuation button G31 in the state where the selection screen shown by the input / output device 204 of the user terminal 20 is displayed, the processor 201 of the user terminal 20 sends an actuation request signal to the server 30 through the communication I / F 205. The actuation request signal is a signal indicating that the user has performed a selection meaning that remote air conditioning needs to be executed. In addition, when the user clicks the cancel button G32 in the state where the selection screen shown by the input / output device 204 of the user terminal 20 is displayed, the processor 201 of the user terminal 20 sends a cancellation request signal to the server 30 through the communication I / F 205. The cancellation request signal is a signal indicating that the user has performed a selection meaning that remote air conditioning does not need to be executed. Figure 9 shown Figure 9 shown

[0126] When the server 30 receives the actuation request signal sent from the user terminal 20 through the communication I / F 304, the command unit F34 of the server 30 sends a second actuation command to the in-vehicle terminal 100 of the target vehicle 10. Thereby, even when neither the first condition nor the second condition is satisfied, it is possible to exceptionally execute remote air conditioning in the second mode after asking the user's intention. In addition, when the server 30 receives the cancellation request signal sent from the user terminal 20 through the communication I / F 304, the command unit F34 of the server 30 does not send a second actuation command to the in-vehicle terminal 100 of the target vehicle 10. Thereby, when neither the first condition nor the second condition is satisfied, it is possible to cancel the execution of remote air conditioning after asking the user's intention.

[0127] In the case of exceptionally executing the remote air conditioner in the second mode as described above, the remote air conditioner can be executed under a predetermined restriction imposed. As an example, the predetermined restriction may be to limit the actuation time of the internal combustion engine 150 (the execution time of the remote air conditioner in the second mode) to be equal to or shorter than a predetermined time. In this case, the second actuation command sent from the server 30 to the in-vehicle terminal 100 includes a command to limit the actuation time of the remote air conditioner in the second mode to be equal to or shorter than a predetermined time. Further, as another example, the predetermined restriction may be to limit the load on the internal combustion engine 150 to be equal to or lower than a predetermined load. In this case, the second actuation command sent from the server 30 to the in-vehicle terminal 100 may include a command to limit the load on the internal combustion engine 150 during the execution of the remote air conditioner in the second mode to be equal to or lower than a predetermined load.

[0128] Flow of processing

[0129] Based on Figure 10 Describe the flow of processing executed by the server 30 in the variant example. Figure 10 FIG. is a flowchart showing an exemplary processing routine executed by the server 30 when receiving a remote signal sent from the user terminal 20. In Figure 10 , the same processing as Figure 8 is denoted by the same reference numerals as Figure 8 and its description is omitted.

[0130] In Figure 10 , in the case of making a negative determination in step S105, instead of Figure 8 step S107 in, the command unit F34 of the server 30 executes the processing in steps S201 to S203.

[0131] In step S201, the command unit F34 sends a selection command to the user terminal 20 used by the user of the target vehicle 10 through the communication I / F 304. As described above, the selection command is a command for the user to select whether to exceptionally execute the remote air conditioner in the second mode (a command to display the above selection screen exemplified in Figure 9 ).

[0132] When the user terminal 20 receives the selection command sent from the server 30, the processor 201 of the user terminal 20 causes the input-output device 204 to display the above selection screen exemplified in Figure 9 . When the user is displayed by the input-output device 204 of the user terminal 20 Figure 9When the actuation button G31 or the cancel button G32 is clicked in the state of the selection screen shown, the processor 201 of the user terminal 20 sends a signal (actuation request signal or cancellation request signal) indicating the user's selection result to the server 30 through the communication I / F 205.

[0133] In step S202, the command unit F34 determines whether the communication I / F 304 has received a signal indicating the user's selection result. When the communication I / F 304 has not received a signal indicating the user's selection result (negative determination in step S202), the command unit F34 waits until the communication I / F 304 receives a signal. When the communication I / F 304 has received a signal indicating the user's selection result (positive determination in step S202), the command unit F34 executes the process in step S203.

[0134] In step S203, the communication unit F34 determines whether the signal indicating the user's selection result is an actuation request signal. When the signal indicating the user's selection result is not an actuation request signal but a cancellation request signal (negative determination in step S203), the command unit F34 ends Figure 10 the execution of the processing routine in. On the other hand, when the signal indicating the user's selection result is an actuation request signal (positive result in step S203), the command unit F34 executes the process in step S106. That is, the command unit F34 sends a second actuation command to the in-vehicle terminal 100 of the target vehicle 10 through the communication I / F 304. The second actuation command may include a command related to a predetermined limit in this case. As an example, as Figure 11 shown, the second actuation command may include information specifying a second mode, a target temperature of the passenger compartment, information for limiting the execution time of the remote air conditioner in the second mode to be equal to or shorter than a predetermined time, etc. As another example, as Figure 12 shown, the second actuation command may include information specifying a second mode, a target temperature of the passenger compartment, information for limiting the load on the internal combustion engine 150 during the execution of the remote air conditioner in the second mode to be equal to or lower than a predetermined load, etc.

[0135] Function and effect of the variant example

[0136] In a modified example, in a case where the first condition (remaining battery power is equal to or higher than a first threshold) is not satisfied and the second condition (remaining fuel amount is equal to or greater than a second threshold and the current position of the target vehicle 10 is outside a predetermined area) is not satisfied, a command (selection command) for causing a user to select whether to execute remote air conditioning in a second mode is transmitted from the server 30 to the user terminal 20. Subsequently, in a case where the user has performed a selection indicating that remote air conditioning in the second mode needs to be executed, remote air conditioning in the second mode is exceptionally executed.

[0137] Therefore, in the modified example, even in a case where neither the first condition nor the second condition is satisfied, remote air conditioning in the second mode can be exceptionally executed after inquiring about the user's intention. Thus, for example, in a case where there is a reason to require remote air conditioning, even when neither the first condition nor the second condition is satisfied, remote air conditioning can be exceptionally executed. In addition, when remote air conditioning in the second mode is executed under a state where a predetermined restriction is imposed, while minimizing fuel consumption of the internal combustion engine 150 due to the execution of remote air conditioning in the second mode, remote air conditioning can be executed. As a result, convenience for a user using the remote air conditioning service can be enhanced.

[0138] Other

[0139] The above embodiments and the above modified examples are merely examples, and without departing from the gist of the present disclosure, the present disclosure can be implemented while being changed as appropriate. For example, if possible, the above embodiments and the above modified examples can be implemented in combination.

[0140] As long as there is no technical contradiction, the processes and means described in the present disclosure can be implemented in free combination. In addition, a process described as being executed by a single device can be executed by a plurality of devices in cooperation. In addition, a process described as being executed by different devices can be executed by a single device. For example, at least a part of the processes performed by the acquisition unit F32, the determination unit F33, and the command unit F34 of the server 30 can be performed by the in-vehicle terminal 100.

[0141] In addition, the present disclosure can also be implemented by providing a computer program that implements the functions described in the above embodiments to the server 30 and reading and executing the computer program by one or more processors included in the server 30. The computer program can be provided to a computer through a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium that can be connected to the system bus of the computer, and can also be provided to the computer through a network. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium is a recording medium that can accumulate information such as data and programs through electrical, magnetic, optical, mechanical, or chemical actions, and can read information from a computer or the like. For example, the recording medium can be any type of disk such as a magnetic disk (e.g., a floppy disk (R), a hard disk drive (HDD), etc.) or an optical disk (e.g., a CD-ROM, a DVD disc, a Blu-ray disc, etc.). The recording medium can also be a medium such as a read-only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), an EPROM, an EEPROM, a magnetic card, a flash memory, an optical card, or a solid-state drive (SSD).

Claims

1. An information processing device that controls a vehicle to execute a first mode and a second mode, the first mode being a mode in which an air conditioning device is actuated by electric power of a battery, and the second mode being a mode in which the air conditioning device is actuated by electric power generated by using power of an internal combustion engine, the information processing device being characterized by comprising a processor, wherein The processor is configured to: receiving an actuation request of the air conditioning device caused by remote operation, In response to receiving the actuation request, determining whether the remaining amount of the battery is equal to or higher than a first threshold, in response to making a determination that the remaining amount of the battery is lower than the first threshold, determining whether a predetermined condition as an execution condition of the second mode is satisfied, and In response to a determination being made that the predetermined condition is satisfied, the vehicle is controlled so that the second mode is executed.

2. The information processing device according to claim 1, characterized in that The processor is configured to, if a determination is made that the predetermined condition is not satisfied, send a command to a terminal used by a user of the vehicle, the command being a command to display a screen for selecting whether the second mode needs to be executed.

3. The information processing device according to claim 2, characterized in that: The processor is configured to control the vehicle so that the second mode is executed when a signal is received from the terminal, the signal indicating that the second mode needs to be executed.

4. The information processing device according to claim 2, characterized in that The processor is configured to, upon receiving a signal from the terminal, control the vehicle so that the second mode is executed in a state where a predetermined restriction is imposed, the signal indicating that selection requires execution of the second mode.

5. The information processing device according to claim 4, characterized in that The predetermined restriction includes limiting the actuation time of the internal combustion engine to be equal to or shorter than a predetermined time.

6. The information processing device according to claim 4, characterized in that The predetermined restriction includes limiting the load on the internal combustion engine to be equal to or below a predetermined load.

7. The information processing device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The predetermined condition includes a condition that the remaining fuel amount of the internal combustion engine is equal to or greater than a second threshold value.

8. The information processing device according to claim 1, characterized in that The predetermined condition includes a condition that the parking position of the vehicle does not fall within a predetermined area, the predetermined area being an area that is not suitable for executing the second mode.

9. The information processing device according to claim 8, characterized in that: The predetermined area includes at least one of an idling prohibited area and an indoor area.

10. An information processing method for controlling a vehicle to execute a first mode and a second mode, the first mode being a mode in which an air conditioning device is actuated by electric power from a battery, and the second mode being a mode in which the air conditioning device is actuated by electric power generated by using power from an internal combustion engine, the information processing method being characterized by comprising: receiving an actuation request for the air conditioning device caused by remote operation; In response to receiving the actuation request, determining whether the remaining amount of the battery is equal to or higher than a first threshold; in response to making a determination that the remaining amount of the battery is lower than the first threshold, determining whether a predetermined condition as an execution condition of the second mode is satisfied; as well as In response to a determination being made that the predetermined condition is satisfied, the vehicle is controlled so that the second mode is executed.

11. The information processing method according to claim 10, characterized in that: The method further includes sending a command to a terminal used by a user of the vehicle, the command being a command to display a screen for selecting whether to execute the second mode, if a determination is made that the predetermined condition is not satisfied.

12. The information processing method according to claim 11, characterized in that: It also includes controlling the vehicle to execute the second mode when a signal is received from the terminal, the signal indicating that the second mode needs to be executed.

13. The information processing method according to claim 11, characterized in that: The method further includes controlling the vehicle so that the second mode is executed with a predetermined restriction imposed upon receiving a signal from the terminal, the signal indicating that the second mode needs to be executed.

14. The information processing method according to claim 13, characterized in that: The predetermined restriction includes limiting the actuation time of the internal combustion engine to be equal to or shorter than a predetermined time.

15. The information processing method according to claim 13, characterized in that: The predetermined restriction includes limiting the load on the internal combustion engine to be equal to or below a predetermined load.

16. The information processing method according to claim 10, characterized in that: The predetermined condition includes a condition that the remaining fuel amount of the internal combustion engine is equal to or greater than a second threshold value.

17. The information processing method according to claim 10, characterized in that: The predetermined condition includes a condition that the parking position of the vehicle does not fall within a predetermined area, the predetermined area being an area that is not suitable for executing the second mode.

18. The information processing method according to claim 17, characterized in that: The predetermined area includes at least one of an idling prohibited area and an indoor area.

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