Information processing apparatus and information processing method

Abstract

An information processing apparatus and an information processing method extract information related to a first vehicle component added afterwards to a first vehicle in response to a request from a user, and output the extracted information related to the first vehicle component together with a sales price of the first vehicle component. When the owner of the first vehicle is a rental operator, a first price is set as the sales price of the first vehicle component, and when the owner of the first vehicle is not the rental operator, a second price lower than the first price is set as the sales price of the first vehicle component.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an information processing device. Background Art

[0002] In recent years, the networking of automobiles has continued to advance, and services for upgrading onboard computers via the Internet have emerged. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a system for calculating the valuation of a used car by taking into account the value of upgraded vehicle components.

[0003] Prior art literature

[0004] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2010-146446

[0005] With the development of machine learning, the need to calculate the appropriate prices of vehicles and vehicle components will increase in the future. Summary of the Invention

[0006] An object of the present disclosure is to promote the purchase of a vehicle component that can be added by being installed on a vehicle later.

[0007] The first scheme of the present disclosure is an information processing device having a control unit, which performs the following processing: extracting information related to a first vehicle component subsequently added to a first vehicle based on a request from a user; and outputting the extracted information related to the first vehicle component together with the sales price of the first vehicle component. When the owner of the first vehicle is a rental operator, the control unit sets the first price as the sales price of the first vehicle component; when the owner of the first vehicle is not a rental operator, the control unit sets a second price lower than the first price as the sales price of the first vehicle component.

[0008] The second scheme of the present disclosure is an information processing device that determines the sales price of a first vehicle component that is subsequently added to a first vehicle. The information processing device has a control unit that performs the following processing: when the owner of the first vehicle is a rental operator, setting a first price as the sales price of the first vehicle component; and when the owner of the first vehicle is not a rental operator, setting a second price that is lower than the first price as the sales price of the first vehicle component.

[0009] The third scheme of the present disclosure is an information processing method for determining the sales price of a first vehicle component that is subsequently added to a first vehicle. The information processing method includes: when the owner of the first vehicle is a rental operator, setting a first price as the sales price of the first vehicle component; and when the owner of the first vehicle is not a rental operator, setting a second price that is lower than the first price as the sales price of the first vehicle component.

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

[0011] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to promote the purchase of vehicle components that can be added by being installed on a vehicle later. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating an overview of the sales system in the first embodiment.

[0013] Figure 2 This is a diagram illustrating the configuration of a sales server and a user terminal.

[0014] Figure 3 This is an example of vehicle data stored in the sales server.

[0015] Figure 4 This is an example of the evaluation amount data stored in the sales server.

[0016] Figure 5 is an example of component data stored in the sales server.

[0017] Figure 6 This is a diagram for explaining the assessed value of a vehicle.

[0018] Figure 7 This is a flowchart of the processing executed by the sales server.

[0019] Figure 8 This is an example of a user interface provided by a sales server.

[0020] Figure 9 This is an example of a user interface provided by a sales server.

[0021] Figure 10 This is an example of a user interface provided by a sales server.

[0022] Figure 11 This is an example of the evaluation amount data in the second embodiment.

[0023] Figure 12 This is an example of the sales price of the vehicle parts calculated by the sales server.

[0024] Figure 13 This is a diagram illustrating an overview of a sales system in a third embodiment.

[0025] Figure 14 This is an example of work data in the third embodiment.

[0026] Figure 15 This is a diagram illustrating the configuration of a sales server in the third embodiment.

[0027] Figure 16 This is a flowchart of the process of returning the difference. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0028] In recent years, the environment for easily upgrading automotive components (hereinafter referred to as vehicle components) has been developing. For example, simply replacing the onboard computer (onboard terminal, electronic control unit) allows for the easy addition of vehicle functionality. Furthermore, functionality can be added not only through hardware replacement but also through software updates.

[0029] In this way, the value of the vehicle can be increased by subsequently replacing or adding hardware components or software components of the vehicle.

[0030] The selling price (list price) of the vehicle components involved in the upgrade is generally determined by the vehicle manufacturer, parts manufacturer, etc. However, it is not appropriate to make the selling price of the vehicle components the same for different vehicle owners.

[0031] For example, consider a scenario where the target vehicle component cannot be separated from the vehicle, such as when performing an upgrade by rewriting the software of the vehicle's electronic control unit. In this case, if the target vehicle is owned and loaned out by a rental company, for example, the vehicle user must later return the vehicle, including the upgraded vehicle component, to the rental company.

[0032] Therefore, if the sales price of the target vehicle parts is a flat price, there may be a problem that the user of the vehicle will have to pay the same amount as in the case of a buyout even though the vehicle parts will no longer be used by the user.

[0033] An information processing apparatus according to the present disclosure solves the above-mentioned problems.

[0034] The information processing device involved in the first embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that it has a control unit that performs the following processing: extracting information related to a first vehicle component subsequently added to a first vehicle based on a request from a user; and outputting the extracted information related to the first vehicle component together with the sales price of the first vehicle component. When the owner of the first vehicle is a rental operator, the control unit sets the first price as the sales price of the first vehicle component; when the owner of the first vehicle is not a rental operator, the control unit sets a second price lower than the first price as the sales price of the first vehicle component.

[0035] The information processing device is a device that outputs information related to vehicle components that are subsequently added to a predetermined vehicle. The device may be a device for placing an order for the vehicle components, or a device that outputs product information of the vehicle components together with the sales price.

[0036] "Adding a vehicle component after the fact" means adding the vehicle component at a later time than the target vehicle is manufactured. "Adding" also includes removing an existing vehicle component and replacing it with a new one.

[0037] The first vehicle component is not necessarily a hardware component. For example, the first vehicle component may be software executed on an onboard computer. In this case, the first vehicle component may also be new software or a newer version than previously installed software. In other words, "post-installation of a first vehicle component" may refer to "installation of a released version or version upgrade of software after the vehicle is manufactured."

[0038] Alternatively, the first vehicle component may be a functional module within the software. In this case, "subsequent addition of the first vehicle component" may mean that functional limitations within the software have been lifted, enabling the use of new functionality. For example, there may be software that, through subsequent activation, allows the use of previously locked functions. In this case, activation can be considered to represent the addition of a new functional module.

[0039] If the first vehicle component is newly added to the first vehicle, the assessed value of the first vehicle increases.

[0040] If the owner of the first vehicle is a rental company, the vehicle will be returned to the rental company in the future. Therefore, the increase in the assessed value can be converted into profit for the rental company. Therefore, the control unit deducts this profit and, when the first vehicle component is sold to a rental company, reduces the sales price of the first vehicle component by an amount compared to a situation where this is not the case.

[0041] According to this configuration, it is possible to perform appropriate assignment of the value of the first vehicle component according to the owner of the vehicle.

[0042] Furthermore, the control unit may execute a process of acquiring an increase in the assessed amount of the first vehicle due to the addition of the first vehicle component.

[0043] For example, the control unit may use the difference between a first valuation amount, which is the expected valuation amount of the first vehicle with the first vehicle component added, and a second valuation amount, which is the expected valuation amount of the first vehicle without the first vehicle component added, as the increase in the valuation amount of the first vehicle.

[0044] The first and second valuation amounts may also be obtained from a database that records estimated valuation amounts. The database may also store the first and second valuation amounts at predetermined future time points. Alternatively, the control unit may search the database to obtain the first and second valuation amounts at the predetermined time points.

[0045] Alternatively, the control unit may treat the valuation of the first vehicle component alone as an increase in the valuation of the first vehicle. In other words, the valuation of the first vehicle component alone may be treated as an increase in the valuation of the entire vehicle resulting from the addition of the vehicle component.

[0046] The valuation of the first vehicle component alone may also be obtained from a database that records such valuations. The database may also store the valuation of the first vehicle component at a predetermined future time. Furthermore, the database may also store changes in the valuation of the first vehicle component over time. Furthermore, the control unit may search the database to obtain the valuation of the first vehicle component at a predetermined time.

[0047] Alternatively, the control unit may deduct the calculated increase in the first vehicle's assessed value from the second price to obtain the amount obtained as the first price. In other words, the increase in the first vehicle's assessed value may be used as the source of funds for the discount. In this case, the upper limit of the discount may be made equal to the increase in the assessed value.

[0048] Furthermore, the vehicle evaluation can be performed at the expiration of the lease contract for the target vehicle. In other words, the "predetermined time point" mentioned above can be the expiration of the lease contract. This is because the vehicle's value is evaluated at the expiration of the lease.

[0049] The following describes specific embodiments of the present disclosure based on the accompanying drawings. Unless otherwise specified, the hardware structure, module structure, functional structure, etc. described in each embodiment should not be understood as limiting the scope of the disclosed technology.

[0050] (First embodiment)

[0051] Reference Figure 1 An overview of the sales system according to the first embodiment will be described.

[0052] The sales system of the present embodiment includes: a device (sales server 100 ) for selling vehicle components that can be additionally equipped on a predetermined vehicle online; and a user terminal 200 for accessing the sales server 100 .

[0053] In the following description, "equipping a vehicle with a vehicle component" means that the vehicle component is additionally equipped after the vehicle is delivered.

[0054] Sales server 100 is a server device that contracts with users for the sale of vehicle components that can be installed in a specific vehicle (automobile). Vehicle components can be hardware such as seats and onboard devices, or they can be software executed by electronic control units or onboard devices. Furthermore, the vehicle components sold can be newly installed in the target vehicle or replaced with existing vehicle components.

[0055] When the target vehicle component is software, the sales server 100 can sell new software or an upgraded version of existing software. In addition, the sales server 100 can sell a functional module added to the existing software and a license for unlocking a locked function.

[0056] The sales server 100 interacts with the user terminal 200 to sign a sales contract for the vehicle components specified by the user.

[0057] When a sales contract for a vehicle component is established, sales server 100 transmits order instruction data to a vehicle location. A vehicle location is, for example, a vehicle repair shop or car dealership where vehicle component-related work (installation, replacement, or software updates, etc.) is performed. The user brings their vehicle to the vehicle location to receive work related to the purchased vehicle component.

[0058] User terminal 200 is a computer used by users purchasing vehicle parts. Users can access sales server 100 via user terminal 200 and apply to purchase vehicle parts. While this assumes a sales contract is signed online, the contract can also be signed in a store (e.g., at a car dealership). In this case, user terminal 200 can also be a computer installed in the store.

[0059] Figure 2 1 is a diagram showing in more detail the components of the sales server 100 and the user terminal 200 included in the sales system of this embodiment. Here, the user terminal 200 will be described first.

[0060] The user terminal 200 is a personal computer such as a personal computer, smartphone, mobile phone, tablet computer, personal information terminal, etc. The user terminal 200 includes a control unit 201 , a storage unit 202 , a communication unit 203 , and an input / output unit 204 .

[0061] The control unit 201 is a computing device that controls the user terminal 200. The control unit 201 can be implemented by a computing processing device such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit).

[0062] The control unit 201 executes a function of accessing and interacting with the sales server 100. This function can also be realized by a web browser or dedicated application software running on the user terminal 200.

[0063] The storage unit 202 is configured to include a main storage device and an auxiliary storage device. The main storage device is a memory device in which programs executed by the control unit 201 and data used by these control programs are stored. The auxiliary storage device is a device that stores programs executed by the control unit 201 and data used by these control programs. The auxiliary storage device may also store programs packaged as application programs executed by the control unit 201. Furthermore, it may store operating systems for executing these applications. Programs stored in the auxiliary storage device are loaded into the main storage device and executed by the control unit 201, thereby performing the processing described below.

[0064] The main storage device may also include RAM (Random Access Memory) and ROM (Read Only Memory). Furthermore, the auxiliary storage device may also include EPROM (Erasable Programmable ROM) and a hard disk drive (HDD). Furthermore, the auxiliary storage device may also include removable media, i.e., portable recording media.

[0065] The communication unit 203 is a wireless communication interface for connecting the user terminal 200 to the network. The communication unit 203 is configured to be able to communicate with the sales server 100 via, for example, a wireless LAN, a mobile communication service such as 3G, 4G, or 5G.

[0066] The input / output unit 204 is a unit that accepts input operations performed by the user and presents information to the user. In this embodiment, it is composed of a touch panel display. That is, it is composed of a liquid crystal display and its control unit, a touch panel and its control unit.

[0067] Next, the sales server 100 will be described.

[0068] The sales server 100 is an online sales system that provides vehicle components, and is a server device that concludes a sales contract for vehicle components based on the results of interaction with the user terminal 200 .

[0069] In this embodiment, sales server 100 may also be configured as a web server capable of interacting with user terminal 200. In this case, for example, user terminal 200 can access web services using a browser to perform sales contract-related procedures. Furthermore, sales server 100 may also provide services through means other than a web server. For example, sales server 100 may implement a service that communicates with dedicated application software installed on user terminal 200 using a specified protocol.

[0070] The sales server 100 can be configured as a computer having a processor such as a CPU or GPU, a main storage device such as RAM or ROM, and auxiliary storage devices such as an EPROM, a hard disk drive, and removable media. The auxiliary storage device stores an operating system (OS), various programs, and various tables. These programs are loaded into the working area of ​​the main storage device and executed. The execution of these programs controls various components, thereby achieving various functions that meet the intended purpose, as described below. However, some or all of these functions may also be implemented using hardware circuits such as ASICs or FPGAs.

[0071] The sales server 100 includes a control unit 101 , a storage unit 102 , and a communication unit 103 .

[0072] The control unit 101 is a computing device that controls the sales server 100. The control unit 101 can be implemented by a computing processing device such as a CPU.

[0073] The control unit 101 includes two functional modules: an order receiving unit 1011 and an order placing unit 1012. Each functional module may be realized by executing a stored program on the CPU.

[0074] The order receiving unit 1011 receives an order for vehicle parts from a user by interacting with the user terminal 200 .

[0075] Specifically, the order reception unit 1011 obtains, from the user terminal 200 , information on the vehicle component that the user wishes to purchase and information on the vehicle equipped with the vehicle component (hereinafter referred to as a target vehicle).

[0076] Furthermore, the order reception unit 1011 determines the sales price of the vehicle component to be purchased based on the following information.

[0077] (1) Is the owner of the subject vehicle a rental operator?

[0078] (2) If the subject vehicle is a leased vehicle, the lease contract period

[0079] (3) The increase in the assessed value of the subject vehicle due to the equipment of the subject vehicle components.

[0080] A specific method of determining the sales price of the vehicle component will be described later.

[0081] In the following description, the term "equipment" is used to encompass not only physical installation but also software installation, updating, and function addition (by removing functional restrictions).

[0082] The order receiving unit 1011 generates and outputs a sales page for vehicle parts including a sales price, and receives an order from a user.

[0083] The ordering unit 1012 generates data (order instruction data) indicating the order of vehicle components based on the order received by the order receiving unit 1011, and transmits it to the vehicle base. The order instruction data includes data related to the purchased vehicle components and data related to the target vehicle equipped with the vehicle components.

[0084] The storage unit 102 includes a main storage device and an auxiliary storage device. The main storage device is a memory in which programs executed by the control unit 101 and data used by the control programs are stored. The auxiliary storage device is a device that stores programs executed by the control unit 101 and data used by the control programs.

[0085] Furthermore, the storage unit 102 stores vehicle data 102A, assessed value data 102B, and component data 102C.

[0086] The vehicle data 102A includes information related to a plurality of vehicles managed by the system. In this embodiment, the sales server 100 stores data related to a plurality of vehicles that can be equipped with vehicle components later (in other words, can be later upgraded).

[0087] Figure 3 This is an example of vehicle data 102A. As shown, vehicle data 102A includes a user ID field, a vehicle ID field, a model ID field, an owner ID field, and a category field. The user ID field stores the identifier of the person who typically uses the vehicle. The owner ID field stores the identifier of the vehicle's owner. In cases such as rental vehicles, the user and owner of the vehicle may differ. For example, the user may be an individual, while the owner may be a rental company.

[0088] The vehicle ID field stores an identifier that uniquely identifies the vehicle (eg, vehicle identification number, VIN), and the model ID field stores an identifier for specifying the model and grade of the vehicle.

[0089] The vehicle data may be periodically updated by the sales server 100 based on data acquired from a server device that manages information related to the vehicle.

[0090] The valuation data 102B is data related to the valuation of the vehicle. In the following description, the valuation of the vehicle represents the valuation when the target vehicle is sold as a used car at a predetermined time point in the future (for example, after a predetermined period has passed since its manufacture and delivery).

[0091] The valuation when selling a vehicle as a used car can vary depending on the model and age. Furthermore, even for the same model and age, the valuation can vary depending on the vehicle components installed. For example, even for the same model and grade, if vehicle components are added later to enhance vehicle functionality, the valuation tends to be higher than for vehicles without these components. Valuation data 102B stores the projected valuation at a predetermined point in the future for each combination of vehicle and vehicle components.

[0092] The order reception unit 1011 can determine the sales price of the vehicle component by referring to the estimated amount data 102B.

[0093] Figure 4 An example of the valuation data 102B is shown. The valuation data 102B is data in which the estimated valuation of the vehicle at a predetermined point in time in the future is described for each vehicle component equipped.

[0094] As shown in the figure, the evaluation amount data includes a model ID field, a component ID field, an evaluation month field, and an evaluation amount field.

[0095] The model ID field stores an identifier of the corresponding vehicle model.

[0096] The identifier of the equipped vehicle component is stored in the component ID field.

[0097] The evaluation month field stores data indicating the year and month. For example, if the evaluation month is January 2025, the associated evaluation amount is the evaluation amount if the vehicle is sold in January 2025.

[0098] The estimated appraisal value for the vehicle during the evaluation month is stored in the Appraisal Amount field. The appraisal value may vary depending on the vehicle model, post-installation vehicle components, and the evaluation month. The appraisal value may also be a pre-guaranteed purchase price from the operator. Alternatively, the appraisal value may be an estimated price based on actual transaction results in the used car market.

[0099] In the example shown, if a vehicle with model number M001 is sold in January 2025, the valuation amount is 1.45 million yen. Alternatively, if a vehicle component with the same model number and an identifier such as C001 is added, the valuation amount is 1.5 million yen.

[0100] Furthermore, the assessment amount may be defined for a plurality of assessment months. In other words, the assessment amount data may also indicate changes in the assessment amount over the years of use.

[0101] The estimated amount data 102B is updated timely based on, for example, actual transaction results in the used car market.

[0102] The storage unit 202 also stores component data 102C. The component data 102C is data related to a plurality of vehicle components sold by the sales server 100. Figure 5 An example of component data 102C is shown. As shown in the figure, component data 102C includes a model ID field, a component ID field, and a sales amount field.

[0103] In the component ID field, an identifier of a vehicle component is stored.

[0104] In the model ID field, an identifier of a vehicle model capable of being equipped with the associated vehicle component is stored.

[0105] The sales price field stores the normal selling price (list price) of the target vehicle component.

[0106] The above-mentioned data can also be constructed by managing the data stored in the storage device through a database management system (DBMS) program executed by a processor. In this case, the data can be set as a relational database, for example.

[0107] The communication unit 103 is a communication interface for connecting the sales server 100 to a network. The communication unit 103 is configured to include, for example, a network interface board and a wireless communication interface for wireless communication.

[0108] also, Figure 2 The structure shown is an example, and all or part of the functions shown can be performed using specially designed circuits. In addition, the program can be stored or executed by a combination of a main storage device and an auxiliary storage device other than those shown.

[0109] Next, a method of setting a sales price when selling vehicle parts will be described.

[0110] Figure 6 This diagram shows the total vehicle valuation at a predetermined point in the future. As shown, the total vehicle valuation consists of the valuation of the vehicle itself and the additional valuation caused by the subsequent addition of vehicle components. For example, the additional valuation is the valuation of the vehicle components added later.

[0111] Here, if the subject vehicle is a leased vehicle, the vehicle including the vehicle component is returned after the contract expires, so the amount shown by symbol 601 is converted into profit for the leasing operator. In other words, the selling price of the vehicle component can be reduced by this amount.

[0112] For example, if the regular selling price of a vehicle component is 100,000 yen, and the addition of this component increases the future value of the vehicle (at a predetermined point in time) by 50,000 yen, the 50,000 yen can be used as capital to offer a discount of up to 50,000 yen when the vehicle component is sold. Furthermore, if the vehicle component is sold by a different vendor than the leasing operator, the leasing operator may also cover the discount. In this case, the leasing operator may also provide a subsidy to the vendor equivalent to the discount.

[0113] If the target vehicle is a leased vehicle, the predetermined time point may be the expiration of the lease contract, in order to evaluate the value of the vehicle at the expiration of the lease.

[0114] When the target vehicle is a rental vehicle, the order reception unit 1011 refers to the valuation data 102B and acquires the valuation of the vehicle at a predetermined point in time in the future.

[0115] Specifically, the "assessed amount of a vehicle having the vehicle component the user wishes to purchase" and the "assessed amount of a vehicle without the vehicle component" are obtained, and the difference is obtained to thereby obtain the increase in the assessed amount due to equipping the vehicle component.

[0116] The discounted selling price is then calculated by subtracting the resulting amount from the regular selling price of the vehicle component. The discount amount can be set within the incremental value of the assessed value. For example, if the vehicle's assessed value increases by 50,000 yen after adding a vehicle component, the discount amount for that vehicle component can be set within a range of 0 to 50,000 yen.

[0117] Return to the description of the sales server 100 .

[0118] Figure 7 is a flowchart showing the processing executed by the sales server 100 . Figure 7 The illustrated process starts, for example, when a user logs in to the sales server 100. It is assumed that the sales server 100 has completed user identification at the time the process is started.

[0119] The processing shown in the figure is executed by the order reception unit 1011.

[0120] First, in step S11, a vehicle (target vehicle) to be equipped with a vehicle component is determined. In this step, a vehicle identifier (eg, vehicle number, VIN) may be acquired from a user. Figure 8 This is an example of the user interface for entering a frame number.

[0121] Furthermore, for example, if data associating a user with a vehicle used by the user is available, the vehicle used by the user logged into the system can be determined based on the data. In addition, if there are multiple vehicles used by multiple users, a vehicle to be selected from the list can be selected.

[0122] In step S12, the owner of the target vehicle determined in step S11 is determined. The owner of the vehicle can be obtained, for example, by searching the vehicle data 102A stored in the storage unit 102 using the vehicle ID as a key. Alternatively, if the vehicle data 102A does not exist, an external device that manages vehicle information may be queried to obtain information about the owner of the target vehicle.

[0123] In the present embodiment, the owner determined in step S12 is either the "leasing company" or the "user himself / herself".

[0124] In step S13, the vehicle component that the user wants to purchase is determined.

[0125] The vehicle component the user wishes to purchase can be determined based on, for example, a product number input by the user, or based on a selection from a list. When using a list, a list of vehicle components that can be installed on the vehicle determined in step S11 can be generated, and the user can select the desired vehicle component from that list. The list of vehicle components that can be installed on a vehicle with a specific model ID can be generated based on component data 102C. Figure 9 This is an example of a display screen of the user terminal 200 showing a list of vehicle components suitable for the vehicle having the input identifier.

[0126] In step S14, it is determined whether the owner determined in step S12 is the rental company or the user himself. If the owner is the rental company, the process proceeds to step S16. If the owner is the user himself, the process proceeds to step S15.

[0127] In step S15, a page (product page) is generated for accepting orders for the target vehicle component. The product page includes a description of the target vehicle component, the selling price, and an ordering interface. If the vehicle owner is the user, the owner of the vehicle component is also the same person. In this case, the selling price is the list price.

[0128] When the owner of the vehicle is a rental company, predetermined processing for discounting the sales price of the target vehicle component is executed in steps S16 and S17.

[0129] First, in step S16, the target vehicle component is equipped on the target vehicle to calculate the increase in the vehicle's valuation. In this step, the following two valuations are obtained at the time of expiration of the lease contract based on the valuation data 102B.

[0130] (1) The assessed value of a vehicle that does not have the subject vehicle components

[0131] (2) The assessed value of the vehicle having the subject vehicle component

[0132] Then, (1) is subtracted from (2). The amount thus obtained becomes the increase in the valuation amount of the target vehicle that is increased by equipping the target vehicle component.

[0133] Next, in step S17 , the amount calculated in step S16 is subtracted from the list price of the target vehicle component, and a product page is generated that displays the obtained amount as the sales price.

[0134] Figure 10 This is an example of a product page generated in step S17. As shown, this product page includes the discounted sales price. The product page can also include the pre-discount sales price. In this case, the reason for the discounted sales price can also be clearly stated. For example, the product page can explain that the vehicle component being purchased will be returned to the rental company upon expiration of the lease contract, resulting in a price discount.

[0135] In step S18, the generated product page is output. The product page includes a sales price and an interface for ordering. The user can order the target vehicle component by operating the interface.

[0136] In step S19, settlement of the vehicle components to be purchased is performed. In this step, settlement is performed using the discounted sales price.

[0137] As described above, in the sales system of the first embodiment, the sales server that accepts an order for a vehicle component determines whether to sell the vehicle component at the list price or at a discounted price, depending on the owner of the target vehicle. The discounted selling price is determined based on the increase in the assessed value of the target vehicle resulting from the installation of the target vehicle component.

[0138] According to this configuration, even when the target vehicle is a rental vehicle, vehicle components can be provided at a reasonable price.

[0139] In the present embodiment, the owner of the target vehicle is determined in step S14 . However, when the vehicle component sales service is for rental vehicles, the processes of steps S15 to S16 may be executed without performing this determination.

[0140] In the present embodiment, the owner of the target vehicle is automatically determined in step S14 , but the owner of the target vehicle may be determined by other methods.

[0141] For example, the user may input information indicating whether the target vehicle is a rental vehicle, and the process of step S14 may be branched based on this information. Furthermore, if there are separate sales services for rental vehicles and sales services for other vehicles, the process of step S14 may be branched depending on which sales service the user is logged into.

[0142] In addition, in this embodiment, the user specifies the vehicle component to be purchased in step S13. However, a list of vehicle components that can be installed in the target vehicle may be generated, and the sales price calculation process may be performed for each vehicle component included in the list.

[0143] In this case, the list can also be sorted based on pricing, discounted sales price, popularity (e.g., sales volume), and so on. Furthermore, the list can be sorted from highest to lowest by incremental valuation. Alternatively, only vehicle components with incremental valuations exceeding a specified value can be listed. This structure makes it easier for users to select vehicle components with larger incremental valuations, which can encourage the purchase of vehicle components.

[0144] (Second embodiment)

[0145] In the first embodiment, as Figure 4 As shown, the assessment amount of a vehicle at any time point is defined by the combination of vehicle model and vehicle components.

[0146] On the other hand, the vehicle's valuation need not necessarily be defined by the combination of vehicle model and vehicle components. For example, the valuation of a single vehicle component can be treated as an increment to the overall vehicle valuation. For example, if a vehicle component with a valuation of 50,000 yen is equipped, the overall vehicle valuation can be considered to increase by 50,000 yen.

[0147] Figure 11 This is an example of the valuation data 102B in the second embodiment. In this embodiment, the valuation data 102B defines the valuation of the vehicle component alone.

[0148] In the second embodiment, the order receiving unit 1011 refers to the Figure 11 The valuation data 102B shown calculates the valuation of the vehicle component at a predetermined future time point. In step S17, the calculated valuation of the vehicle component is regarded as the increase in the valuation of the target vehicle due to the installation of the vehicle component.

[0149] This method can also determine a reasonable selling price for vehicle components.

[0150] In the first and second embodiments, the assessed amount of the target vehicle at a predetermined future time point is acquired using information stored in the database.

[0151] On the other hand, the assessed value of the vehicle may not necessarily be defined by the database.

[0152] For example, a machine learning model for estimating the valuation of used cars can be used to calculate the valuation of a specific vehicle model at a certain point in the future.

[0153] For example, a machine learning model can also be generated, which learns the relationship between input data including: (1) attributes of the target vehicle (model type, brand name, model name, size, performance, new car price, etc.) and (2) attributes of vehicle components equipped on the vehicle (brand name, model name, type, performance, price, etc.), (3) any one of the elapsed periods (for example, the period since the vehicle was manufactured), and output data including a value related to the future expected valuation amount of the target vehicle (for example, the expected valuation amount at a specified time point, the expected decline rate of the valuation amount relative to the new car price, etc.), and uses the machine learning model to calculate the valuation amount of a "specific vehicle equipped with a certain vehicle component" at a specific future time point.

[0154] In this case, explanatory variables include information about the target vehicle (model, brand name, model name, dimensions, performance, new car price, etc.), information about vehicle components equipped on the target vehicle, and the time period since vehicle manufacture. Furthermore, the target variable is the value associated with the expected future valuation of the target vehicle.

[0155] (Third embodiment)

[0156] In the first and second embodiments, when the target vehicle is a rental vehicle, the sales price of the vehicle component is discounted. On the other hand, if the sold vehicle component is not equipped on the target vehicle, the value of the target vehicle does not increase, potentially causing a disadvantage for the rental operator. In a corresponding embodiment, the sales server 100 verifies that the sold vehicle component is equipped on the target vehicle and, based on this, refunds the discounted amount to the user.

[0157] Figure 13 3 is a diagram showing an overview of a sales system according to a third embodiment. As shown in the figure, the sales system according to the third embodiment is further configured to include a base server 300 corresponding to a vehicle base.

[0158] The base server 300 is a server device associated with a vehicle base. As described above, a vehicle base is a base where work related to vehicle components (installation, replacement, or software update, etc.) is performed.

[0159] The base server 300 can be a computer similar to the user terminal 200. Specifically, the base server 300 can be a personal computer, smartphone, mobile phone, tablet computer, personal information terminal, or other similar computer. Like the user terminal 200, the base server 300 includes a control unit, a storage unit, a communication unit, and an input / output unit.

[0160] When performing a work of mounting a vehicle component on a predetermined vehicle, the base server 300 generates data indicating details of the work (hereinafter referred to as work data) and transmits the data to the sales server 100 . Figure 14 This is an example of job data.

[0161] As shown in the figure, the work data includes fields for vehicle ID, work day, vehicle location, construction type, and component ID.

[0162] The vehicle ID is an identifier that uniquely identifies the vehicle being worked on (e.g., the vehicle frame number, VIN (Vehicle Identification Number), etc.). The work date is the date the work was performed, and the vehicle location is an identifier that uniquely identifies the location where the work was performed. The construction category stores one of "Installation of vehicle components," "Replacement of vehicle components," and "Removal of vehicle components." The component ID stores the identifier of the vehicle component associated with the work. Furthermore, the work data may also include detailed information related to other work.

[0163] The operation data transmitted from the base server 300 is stored in the sales server 100 .

[0164] Figure 15 This is a diagram showing the components of a sales server 100 according to the third embodiment.

[0165] As shown in the figure, in the third embodiment, the control unit 101 included in the sales server 100 is configured to further include a confirmation unit 1013. In addition, the storage unit 102 is configured to be able to further store work data 102D.

[0166] The confirmation unit 1013 performs a process of receiving operation data from the base server 300 and a process of refunding the discounted amount of the target vehicle component to the user based on the operation data.

[0167] The operation data 102D is a collection of operation data received from a plurality of base servers 300 .

[0168] In the third embodiment, the sales server 100 outputs a product page indicating the discounted sales price in step S18 , but the product is settled at the list price, and the difference is refunded after the target vehicle component is installed on the target vehicle.

[0169] Figure 16 This is a flowchart of the process for refunding the difference. The illustrated process is executed by the confirmation unit 1013. Furthermore, the operation data is transmitted from the base server 300 each time an operation occurs and stored in the storage unit 102. Furthermore, it is assumed that the sales server 100 stores the sales history of vehicle parts.

[0170] Note that the illustrated processing is executed only for rental vehicles.

[0171] First, in step S21 , the job data stored in the storage unit 102 is acquired.

[0172] Next, in step S22 , the purchase history of the vehicle parts is compared with the operation data to determine whether the vehicle parts purchased in the past (the vehicle parts targeted for discount) are correctly equipped on the target vehicle.

[0173] If the target vehicle component is correctly installed on the target vehicle, the process proceeds to step S23, where a refund is issued for the difference between the list price and the discount amount. For example, if the user has made an electronic payment, the confirmation unit 1013 may instruct the server managing the payment to issue a refund. Furthermore, if the rental company and the vehicle component seller are different, the rental company may also pay the seller an amount equivalent to the discount amount in this step.

[0174] In step S22 , if it cannot be confirmed that the target vehicle component is equipped on the target vehicle, the process ends.

[0175] As described above, in the third embodiment, it is possible to confirm whether the purchased vehicle component is actually equipped on the target vehicle.

[0176] Furthermore, in the present embodiment, the fact that the target vehicle component is equipped on the target vehicle is determined by communicating with the base server 300 , but this determination may be performed based on other information.

[0177] For example, when the target vehicle component is connected to the in-vehicle network of the target vehicle, the sales server 100 may confirm that the target vehicle component is equipped on the target vehicle by communicating with the electronic control unit of the target vehicle.

[0178] In this embodiment, the discounted amount is subsequently refunded, but in step S19 , the payment may be settled at the discounted price, and if the purchased vehicle component cannot be confirmed to be equipped on the target vehicle within a predetermined period, the user may be asked to pay the difference.

[0179] (Example)

[0180] A specific example of calculating the price of a vehicle component is given.

[0181] Figure 12 This is a diagram showing an example of prices of two vehicle components.

[0182] Here, it is assumed that there are vehicle component A with a pricing of 30,000 yen and vehicle component B with a pricing of 50,000 yen.

[0183] When the target vehicle is not a rental vehicle, the user purchases each vehicle component at a price of 30,000 yen for vehicle component A and 50,000 yen for vehicle component B. That is, the sales price of vehicle component B is higher than that of vehicle component A.

[0184] Next, consider a case where the target vehicle is a rental vehicle.

[0185] In this example, the valuation at a predetermined future time is 5,000 yen for vehicle component A and 40,000 yen for vehicle component B. That is, the future valuation is the opposite of the list price, with vehicle component B being higher than vehicle component A.

[0186] In this example, a discount of up to 5,000 yen can be applied to vehicle component A from the list price, and a discount of up to 40,000 yen can be applied to vehicle component B from the list price.

[0187] As a result, the sales price of vehicle component A relative to the rental vehicle becomes 25,000 yen, and the sales price of vehicle component B relative to the rental vehicle becomes 10,000 yen.

[0188] Thus, between vehicle component A and vehicle component B, there exists the following relationship:

[0189] Pricing: Vehicle Component A < Vehicle Component B

[0190] Assessment amount at a specified time point: Vehicle component A > Vehicle component B

[0191] The reduction of the above assessment amount relative to the list price: Vehicle Component A > Vehicle Component B

[0192] Furthermore, when the owner of the target vehicle is a rental company, contrary to the pricing, the sales price of the vehicle component B may be lower than the sales price of the vehicle component A.

[0193] (Variation)

[0194] The above-described embodiment is merely an example, and the present disclosure can be implemented with appropriate modifications within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0195] For example, the processes and means described in the present disclosure can be freely combined and implemented as long as no technical contradiction occurs.

[0196] Furthermore, in the description of the embodiment, the device that calculates the sales price of vehicle components and outputs it along with product information is illustrated as sales server 100. However, sales server 100 may be divided into a first server device that calculates the sales price of vehicle components and a second server device that outputs the calculated sales price. Alternatively, the first server device may calculate sales prices for multiple vehicle components and store the results in a storage device, and the second server device that processes vehicle component orders may output a product page based on this stored information.

[0197] In the description of the embodiment, the price (list price) of a vehicle component to be sold is generally predefined as component data 102C. However, the list price of a vehicle component may be specified by a business operator, etc., who sells the vehicle component. In this case, for example, the dealer, etc., may access the sales server 100 to create a record of the component data 102C or set the list price before the sale of the vehicle component begins.

[0198] In addition, a process described as being performed by one device may be shared and executed by multiple devices. Alternatively, a process described as being performed by different devices may be performed by a single device. In a computer system, it is possible to flexibly change the hardware structure (server structure) used to implement each function.

[0199] The present disclosure can also be implemented by supplying a computer program having the functions described in the above-mentioned embodiments to a computer, and having one or more processors of the computer read out and execute the program. Such a computer program can be provided to the computer through a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium that can be connected to the system bus of the computer, or it can be provided to the computer through a network. Non-transitory computer-readable storage media include, for example, any type of disk such as a magnetic disk (floppy disk, hard disk drive (HDD), etc.), an optical disk (CD-ROM, DVD disk, Blu-ray disk, etc.), a read-only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), an EPROM, an EEPROM, a magnetic card, a flash memory, an optical card, or any type of medium suitable for storing electronic instructions.

[0200] [Explanation of Reference Numerals]

[0201] 100···Sales Server

[0202] 101, 201... Control Department

[0203] 102,202···Storage Department

[0204] 103, 203···Ministry of Communications

[0205] 200···User terminal

[0206] 204···Input and output unit

Claims

1. An information processing device, wherein: A control unit is provided, which performs the following processing: extracting information related to a first vehicle component subsequently added to the first vehicle in response to a request from a user; and outputting the extracted information related to the first vehicle component together with the sales price of the first vehicle component, When the owner of the first vehicle is a rental operator, the control unit sets a first price as the sales price of the first vehicle component. When the owner of the first vehicle is not a rental operator, the control unit sets a second price lower than the first price as the sales price of the first vehicle component.

2. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein The control unit obtains data indicating that the first vehicle component has been added to the first vehicle from a predetermined external device.

3. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein When the owner of the first vehicle is a leasing operator, the control unit obtains an increase in the assessed value of the first vehicle due to the addition of the first vehicle component, and determines the first price based on the increase in the assessed value.

4. The information processing device according to claim 3, wherein: The control unit determines a difference between a first valuation amount, which is an expected valuation amount of the first vehicle with the first vehicle component added, and a second valuation amount, which is an expected valuation amount of the first vehicle without the first vehicle component added, as an increase in the valuation amount of the first vehicle.

5. The information processing apparatus according to claim 4, wherein: The control unit obtains the first evaluation amount and the second evaluation amount at a predetermined future time point. The information processing apparatus according to claim 5 , wherein: The system further includes an assessment amount database that records data related to the first assessment amount and the second assessment amount at the specified time point.

7. The information processing apparatus according to claim 3, wherein: An assessment amount database is further provided, which records data related to the assessment amount of each of the plurality of first vehicle components at a predetermined future time point.

8. The information processing apparatus according to claim 7, wherein: The control unit sets the assessed amount of the first vehicle component at the predetermined time point to an increment of the assessed amount of the first vehicle.

9. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 5 to 7, wherein: The prescribed time point is the time point when the rental contract of the first vehicle expires.

10. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 3 to 7, wherein: The control unit sets an amount obtained by deducting an amount whose upper limit is an increase in the evaluation amount of the first vehicle from the second price as the first price.

11. The information processing apparatus according to claim 3, wherein: An increment in the valuation amount of the first vehicle at a specified time point in the future is obtained through a machine learning model that learns the relationship between first data including attributes of the first vehicle, attributes of the first vehicle component, at least any one of the elapsed period since the manufacture of the first vehicle, and second data related to the expected valuation amount of the first vehicle at the specified time point in the future.

12. An information processing device for determining a selling price of a first vehicle component subsequently added to a first vehicle, wherein: The information processing device includes a control unit that performs the following processing: setting a first price as a selling price of the first vehicle component in a case where the owner of the first vehicle is a rental operator; and In a case where the owner of the first vehicle is not a rental operator, a second price lower than the first price is set as a sales price of the first vehicle component.

13. The information processing apparatus according to claim 12, wherein: The control unit obtains data indicating that the first vehicle component has been added to the first vehicle from a predetermined external device.

14. The information processing apparatus according to claim 12, wherein: In the case where the owner of the first vehicle is a rental operator, The control unit obtains an increase in an estimated price of the first vehicle due to the addition of the first vehicle component, and determines the first price based on the increase in the estimated price.

15. The information processing apparatus according to claim 14, wherein: The control unit sets the difference between a first valuation amount, which is an expected valuation amount of the first vehicle with the first vehicle component added, and a second valuation amount, which is an expected valuation amount of the first vehicle without the first vehicle component added, as an increase in the valuation amount of the first vehicle.

16. The information processing apparatus according to claim 15, wherein: The control unit obtains the first evaluation amount and the second evaluation amount at a predetermined future time point.

17. The information processing apparatus according to claim 14, wherein: An assessment amount database is further provided, which records data related to the assessment amount of each of the plurality of first vehicle components at a predetermined future time point.

18. The information processing apparatus according to claim 17, wherein: The control unit sets the assessed amount of the first vehicle component at the predetermined time point to an increment of the assessed amount of the first vehicle.

19. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 16 to 18, wherein: The specified time point is the time point when the rental contract of the first vehicle expires.

20. An information processing method for determining a selling price of a first vehicle component subsequently added to a first vehicle, wherein: The information processing method includes: setting a first price as a selling price of the first vehicle component in a case where the owner of the first vehicle is a rental operator; and In a case where the owner of the first vehicle is not a rental operator, a second price lower than the first price is set as a sales price of the first vehicle component.

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