Information processing apparatus

Abstract

The invention relates to an information processing apparatus. Provided is a technology effective in achieving smooth communication between a service provider and an occupant in a service for distributing content to the occupant of a vehicle. A control unit of a vehicle information processing device causes a plurality of terminals to display a first user interface screen on which a seating map including identification information of passengers seated in each of a plurality of seats of a vehicle is drawn. A control unit of an information processing apparatus receives an input of writing on a first user interface screen from one of a plurality of terminals. A control unit of the information processing apparatus generates a second user interface screen by drawing an input write at a position where the write is input in the first user interface screen. The control unit of the information processing apparatus displays the generated second user interface screen on the plurality of terminals.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to information processing devices. Background Technology

[0002] Technology for distributing content to passengers in a vehicle is known (e.g., see Patent Document 1).

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2005-354489 Summary of the Invention

[0006] The purpose of this disclosure is to provide an effective technique for enabling smooth communication between service providers and passengers in a service that distributes content to passengers in a vehicle.

[0007] One of the solutions disclosed herein is an information processing apparatus that manages the distribution of content to passengers in a vehicle. In this case, the information processing apparatus may, for example, include a control unit that performs the following actions: causing multiple terminals to display a first user interface screen, wherein the first user interface screen displays a seating chart containing identification information of passengers respectively seated in multiple seats provided in the vehicle; receiving a write input from one of the multiple terminals on the first user interface screen; drawing the input at the location on the first user interface screen where the write is input, thereby generating a second user interface screen; and causing the multiple terminals to display the second user interface screen.

[0008] This disclosure may also provide information processing methods for performing information processing on a computer, programs for causing a computer to perform the information processing methods, or non-temporary storage media for storing the programs.

[0009] Invention Effects

[0010] According to this disclosure, a technology can be provided that is effective in enabling smooth communication between the distributor and the passenger in a service that distributes content to passengers in a vehicle. Attached Figure Description

[0011] Figure 1 This is a diagram showing an overview of the system in the implementation method.

[0012] Figure 2 This diagram schematically illustrates an example of the hardware configuration of the system included in the implementation embodiment, comprising an in-vehicle terminal, an audio-visual terminal, a distribution terminal, an operation management terminal, and an operation management server.

[0013] Figure 3This is a diagram illustrating the first example of a management webpage in the implementation method.

[0014] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating a second example of a management webpage in the implementation method.

[0015] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of a processing routine executed by the runtime management server in an implementation scheme.

[0016] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0017] 10: Vehicle; 100: Vehicle terminal; 110: Audiovisual terminal; 20: Distribution terminal; 30: Operation management terminal; 40: Operation management server; 401: Control unit; 402: Storage unit; 403: Communication I / F. Detailed Implementation

[0018] This study investigates a service that distributes content related to an event held at a venue to visitors (passengers) in a vehicle that transports visitors between public transportation stops and the venue. As an example, a service that distributes content as real-time communication occurs between the distributor and the passenger is also explored. In such a service, smooth communication between the service provider and the passenger is crucial for improving passenger satisfaction.

[0019] Therefore, this information processing apparatus is configured to provide a user interface that enables the sharing of passenger information among service providers. This information processing apparatus is a computer that manages the distribution of content to passengers in a vehicle. In one example, such an information processing apparatus may be a server that communicates with multiple terminals via a network. The content in this disclosure may include content that progresses as communication occurs between service providers and passengers. In one example, such content may be content involving real-time question-and-answer exchanges between the distributor (e.g., a host (MC) and / or contestant, etc.) and passengers.

[0020] In the information processing apparatus of this disclosure, the control unit causes multiple terminals to display a first user interface screen, wherein the first user interface screen displays a seating chart containing identification information of passengers respectively seated in multiple seats provided in the vehicle. As an example, the control unit of the information processing apparatus can interact with the multiple terminals by executing a web server, thereby causing the multiple terminals to display the first user interface screen. That is, in response to the multiple terminals accessing a specified URL (Uniform Resource Locator), the control unit of the information processing apparatus causes the multiple terminals to display the first user interface screen. It should be noted that, in one example, the multiple terminals may include terminals used by content distributors, terminals used by vehicle operation managers, and terminals used by vehicle attendants, etc.

[0021] The control unit of the information processing device accepts write input from one of the multiple terminals on the first user interface screen. In one example, one of the multiple terminals acquires data (digital ink) including the write location and trajectory via a touch panel display and sends this acquired digital ink data (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "write data") to the information processing device. In response, the control unit of the information processing device accepts write input from the first user interface screen by receiving the write data sent from that terminal.

[0022] In response to an input request for writing to the first user interface screen received from one of multiple terminals, the control unit of the information processing device generates a second user interface screen. The second user interface screen is a screen created by drawing the aforementioned writing on the first user interface screen. At this time, the control unit of the information processing device can draw the writing based on the digital ink contained in the written data.

[0023] In response to the generation of a second user interface screen, the control unit of the information processing device causes multiple terminals to display the second user interface screen. The method for causing multiple terminals to display the second user interface screen can be the same as the method for causing multiple terminals to display the first user interface screen.

[0024] According to the information processing apparatus of this disclosure, when writing is performed on a first user interface screen on one of a plurality of terminals, the other terminals among the plurality of terminals can also display the written content. Therefore, the written content can be shared among multiple users using multiple terminals. As a result, service providers can communicate smoothly with passengers.

[0025] <Implementation Method>

[0026] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described based on the accompanying drawings. The configurations of the following embodiments are examples, and various modifications or variations can be made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Furthermore, specific configurations corresponding to the embodiments may be appropriately adopted when implementing the present disclosure. It should be noted that in this embodiment, the data is described using natural language, but more specifically, the data is specified by computer-recognizable analog language, commands, parameters, machine language, etc.

[0027] (System Overview)

[0028] In this embodiment, an example of applying the information processing apparatus of this disclosure to a system that provides content distribution services to passengers of a vehicle, wherein the vehicle is a vehicle that transports visitors to an event venue. The event venue may be, for example, a facility for hosting sports competitions, a facility for hosting music concerts, or a facility for hosting exhibitions. In this embodiment, a stadium for hosting sports competitions (equivalent to the events specified in this disclosure) is taken as an example of an event venue.

[0029] Figure 1 This is a diagram schematically illustrating an example of the configuration of the system in this embodiment. Figure 1 In the example shown, the system is configured to include a vehicle 10, an in-vehicle terminal 100, an audio-visual terminal 110, a distribution terminal 20, an operation management terminal 30, and an operation management server 40. Figure 1 In the example shown, only one of each of the vehicle 10, vehicle terminal 100, audio-visual terminal 110 and distribution terminal 20 is shown, but there can be multiple vehicles 10, vehicle terminal 100, audio-visual terminal 110 and distribution terminal 20.

[0030] Vehicle 10 is a vehicle used to transport visitors between designated pick-up and drop-off points and the stadium. As an example, the designated pick-up and drop-off points can be public transportation stops. The on-board terminal 100 is a computer used by the attendant of vehicle 10. In this embodiment, the on-board terminal 100 has the following function: it accesses a dedicated URL for a content distribution service by executing an application such as a web browser, thereby displaying a management webpage (equivalent to the first and second user interface screens of this disclosure). The management webpage is a webpage used to display a user interface screen on the on-board terminal 100, such as a web browser, where the user interface screen displays identification information of the passengers seated in each of the multiple seats equipped in vehicle 10. The passenger identification information can be the passenger's name or nickname, etc. It should be noted that, in addition to displaying the passenger identification information, the seating chart may also display the passenger's preference information. In one example, the preference information may be information indicating the passenger's favorite athletes and / or teams, etc. Furthermore, the vehicle-mounted terminal 100 in this embodiment also has the following functions: in response to a passenger using a finger, pen, or other writing tool to write on the display screen of a management webpage based on handwriting input, it detects the position (position in the management webpage) and shape of the strokes (handwriting) entered by the writing tool, and sends write data containing the detected digital ink to the operation management server 40. The write data includes digital ink and identification information (terminal ID) of the vehicle-mounted terminal 100, etc.

[0031] The audiovisual terminal 110 is a computer installed in the passenger cabin of the vehicle 10. In this embodiment, the audiovisual terminal 110 has the function of outputting content distributed from the distribution terminal 20. The content in this embodiment is related to a sporting event held in a stadium, including content involving real-time communication between the distributor (MC and athletes, etc.) and the passengers of the vehicle 10 (e.g., questions and answers between athletes and passengers participating in a sporting event held in a stadium). In one example, such content distribution can be achieved by connecting the distribution terminal 20 and the audiovisual terminal 110 via a web conferencing system. In this case, the audiovisual terminal 110 can also be configured to send images captured from the passenger cabin of the vehicle 10 and audio collected from the passenger cabin to the distribution terminal 20.

[0032] Distribution terminal 20 is the computer used by the content distributor. Distribution terminal 20 distributes content to audiovisual terminal 110 via network N1 (described later). In this embodiment, distribution terminal 20 is connected to audiovisual terminal 110 via a web conferencing system, thereby sending images and voices of the distributor (MC, contestants, etc.) to audiovisual terminal 110 in real time, and outputting images and voices of the passenger cabin of vehicle 10 in real time. Furthermore, distribution terminal 20 in this embodiment also has the same functions as the vehicle-mounted terminal 100 described above: displaying a management webpage containing a seating chart of vehicle 10; and sending write data corresponding to handwritten input by the distributor on the display screen of the management webpage to the operation management server 40. The write data at this time includes the written digital ink and the terminal ID of distribution terminal 20.

[0033] The operation management terminal 30 is a computer used by the operation manager of vehicle 10. In this embodiment, the operation management terminal 30 has the following functions: performing information processing related to the operation management of vehicle 10. As an example, the operation management terminal 30 has the following functions: receiving operation data of vehicle 10 from vehicle 10 and / or operation management server 40, and presenting the received operation data to the operation manager. The operation data of vehicle 10 may include, for example, the origin of vehicle 10, the destination of vehicle 10, the planned route of vehicle 10, and the current location of vehicle 10. Upon receiving such operation data, the operation management terminal 30 can output a map display reflecting the operation data. Furthermore, the operation management terminal 30 in this embodiment also has the following functions similar to the vehicle-mounted terminal 100 described above: displaying a management webpage containing a seating chart of vehicle 10; and sending write data to the operation management server 40 corresponding to the handwritten input by the operation manager on the display screen of the management webpage. The write data at this time includes the written digital ink and the terminal ID of the operation management terminal 30.

[0034] The operation management server 40 is a computer that processes information related to the operation of the vehicle 10. In this embodiment, the operation management server 40 has the following function: determining the predetermined route of the vehicle 10, which is the destination of the content distribution, based on content distribution information. In one example, the content distribution information includes identification information (vehicle ID) of the vehicle 10, the departure point of the vehicle 10 (a public transportation stop or a stadium), the destination of the vehicle 10 (a stadium or a public transportation stop), the predetermined start time of content distribution, and the predetermined end time of content distribution. Such distribution information can be sent from the distribution terminal 20 or the operation management terminal 30 to the operation management server 40. Furthermore, the operation management server 40 in this embodiment also has the following function: sending route information containing the determined predetermined route to the vehicle 10 (e.g., a vehicle navigation system equipped on the vehicle 10) and the operation management terminal 30.

[0035] Furthermore, the operation management server 40 of this embodiment is configured as a network server capable of interacting with the in-vehicle terminal 100, the distribution terminal 20, and the operation management terminal 30. Specifically, the operation management server 40 of this embodiment has the following function: by executing a network server, it interacts with the in-vehicle terminal 100, the distribution terminal 20, and the operation management terminal 30, thereby causing the in-vehicle terminal 100, the distribution terminal 20, and the operation management terminal 30 to display the aforementioned management webpage. Moreover, the operation management server 40 of this embodiment also has the following function: it reflects handwritten input to the management webpage based on input from any one of the flight attendants, distributors, and operation managers. Thus, the input performed by any one of the flight attendants, distributors, and operation managers can be shared among all the flight attendants, distributors, and operation managers. For example, when a passenger conveys information not included in the preference information to the flight attendant, the flight attendant writes this information to the passenger's seat location via handwriting input, thereby allowing the distributor and operation manager to access this information. As a result, distributors can also provide passengers with topics related to the information. Consequently, distributors can communicate more smoothly with passengers, increasing passenger satisfaction.

[0036] (System Composition)

[0037] Here, based on Figure 2 Hereinafter, we will describe the hardware configuration examples of the vehicle terminal 100, audio-visual terminal 110, distribution terminal 20, operation management terminal 30 and operation management server 40 included in the system of this embodiment. Figure 2This diagram schematically illustrates an example of the hardware configuration of the vehicle-mounted terminal 100, audio-visual terminal 110, distribution terminal 20, operation management terminal 30, and operation management server 40. (See diagram for example.) Figure 2 As shown, the vehicle terminal 100, audio-visual terminal 110, distribution terminal 20, operation management server 40, and operation management terminal 30 are interconnected via network N1. In one example, network N1 may include wireless communication networks such as the Internet (WAN) and / or Wi-Fi (registered trademark), which are global public communication networks.

[0038] (Vehicle-mounted terminal)

[0039] In this embodiment, the vehicle terminal 100 is a computer used by the crew of the vehicle 10, and includes a control unit 101, a storage unit 102, an input / output device 103, and a communication I / F 104. In one example, such a vehicle terminal 100 may be a computer equipped in the vehicle 10, or it may be a portable computer (e.g., a smartphone or tablet terminal) used by the crew.

[0040] The vehicle-mounted terminal 100 can be configured as a computer with a processor (CPU (Central Processing Unit) or DSP (Digital Signal Processor), etc.), main storage devices (RAM (Random Access Memory) and ROM (Read Only Memory), etc.), auxiliary storage devices (EPROM (Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory), hard disk drives, and removable media, etc.). Various programs, such as the operating system (OS) and application programs, are stored in the auxiliary storage devices. By executing these programs, various functions (software modules) can be implemented according to the specified purpose. However, some or all of the functions of the vehicle-mounted terminal 100 can also be implemented using hardware circuits such as ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array).

[0041] The control unit 101 is a computing unit that implements the various functions of the vehicle terminal 100 by executing a first program stored in the storage unit 102. The control unit 101 can be implemented, for example, by a hardware processor such as a CPU. In addition, the control unit 101 may also be configured to include RAM, ROM, cache memory, etc.

[0042] Storage unit 102 stores various information. Storage unit 102 is composed of storage media such as RAM, disk, and / or flash memory. Storage unit 102 stores a first program executed by control unit 101 and data used by the first program.

[0043] Input / output device 103 is a device that accepts input operations performed by flight attendants and presents information to them. In this embodiment, input / output device 103 has a sensor for sensing the digital ink (position and shape of strokes, etc.) written by handwriting input using a writing instrument. In one example, such input / output device 103 may be configured to include a touch panel display, which may include an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) or EL (Electroluminescence) panel, etc. The writing instrument may be an electronic pen, a non-electronic pen, a stylus, the flight attendant's finger, a mouse, or other pointing devices. It should be noted that input / output device 103 may also be configured to include, in addition to a touch panel display, a microphone for inputting (collecting) voice, a speaker for outputting voice, a camera for capturing images, etc.

[0044] Communication I / F 104 is a communication interface used to connect the vehicle terminal 100 to the network N1. In one example, Communication I / F 104 may be configured to include a wireless communication interface for wireless communication, etc. In this embodiment, the vehicle terminal 100 communicates with the operation management server 40 via Communication I / F 104.

[0045] In the vehicle-mounted terminal 100 configured as described above, the control unit 101 executes the first program of the storage unit 102, achieving the following functions: When the vehicle 10 is traveling from its origin to its destination (or when content is being distributed), the control unit 101 accesses a dedicated URL for the content distribution service by executing an application such as a web browser, causing the input / output device 103 to display a management webpage. Furthermore, in response to a passenger making a handwriting input on the management webpage display screen via the input / output device 103, the control unit 101 of the vehicle-mounted terminal 100 detects the input / output digital ink. It should be noted that the method for detecting digital ink is not limited to a specific method; a method appropriate to the implementation can be selected from various known methods. The control unit 101 of the vehicle-mounted terminal 100 sends write data containing the detected digital ink and the terminal ID of the vehicle-mounted terminal 100 to the operation management server 40 via the communication I / F 104.

[0046] Regarding the specific hardware configuration of the vehicle terminal 100, the constituent elements can be appropriately omitted, replaced, or added according to the implementation method.

[0047] (Audiovisual terminal)

[0048] The audiovisual terminal 110 in this embodiment is a computer installed in the passenger cabin of the vehicle 10, and has a control unit 111, a storage unit 112, an input / output device 113, and a communication I / F 114.

[0049] The audiovisual terminal 110 can be configured as a computer with a processor (CPU or DSP, etc.), main storage (RAM and ROM, etc.), auxiliary storage (EPROM, hard disk drive, removable media, etc.), and image and voice input / output devices. Various programs, such as the OS and application programs, are stored in the auxiliary storage. By executing these programs, various functions (software modules) can be achieved for the specified purpose. However, some or all of the functions of the audiovisual terminal 110 can also be implemented using hardware circuits such as ASICs or FPGAs.

[0050] The control unit 111 is a computing unit that implements the various functions of the audiovisual terminal 110 by executing a second program stored in the storage unit 112. The control unit 111 can be configured in the same way as the control unit 101 of the vehicle terminal 100.

[0051] Storage unit 112 stores various information. Storage unit 112 can be configured similarly to storage unit 102 of vehicle terminal 100. Storage unit 112 stores a second program executed by control unit 111 and data used by the second program.

[0052] The input / output device 113 is a device that accepts input of images and voice within the cabin and presents content distributed from the distribution terminal 20 to passengers in the cabin. In one example, the input / output device 113 may include a camera for capturing images within the cabin, a microphone for inputting voice within the cabin, a display for outputting images contained in the content, and a speaker for outputting voice contained in the content, etc.

[0053] Communication I / F 114 is a communication interface used to connect the audiovisual terminal 110 to the network N1. In one example, communication I / F 114 can be configured similarly to communication I / F 104 of the vehicle terminal 100. In this embodiment, the audiovisual terminal 110 communicates with the distribution terminal 20 via communication I / F 114.

[0054] In the audiovisual terminal 110 configured as described above, the control unit 111 executes the second program of the storage unit 112, achieving the following functions: In the audiovisual terminal 110, in response to receiving content distributed from the distribution terminal 20 via the communication I / F 114, the control unit 111 causes the input / output device 113 to output the images and audio contained in the content. Furthermore, in the audiovisual terminal 110, the cabin images and audio input to the input / output device 113 are transmitted to the distribution terminal 20 via the communication I / F 114.

[0055] Regarding the specific hardware configuration of the audiovisual terminal 110, the constituent elements can be appropriately omitted, replaced, or added according to the implementation method.

[0056] (Distribution terminal)

[0057] In this embodiment, the distribution terminal 20 is a computer used by the content distributor, and includes a control unit 201, a storage unit 202, an input / output device 203, and a communication I / F 204. Such a distribution terminal 20 can be implemented using a PC (Personal Computer). It should be noted that the distribution terminal 20 can also be configured to include multiple computers, such as the computer used by the MC and the computers used by the players.

[0058] Similar to the audiovisual terminal 110, the distribution terminal 20 can be configured as a computer with a processor (CPU or DSP, etc.), main storage (RAM and ROM, etc.), auxiliary storage (EPROM, hard disk drive, removable media, etc.), and image and voice input / output devices. Various programs, such as the OS and application programs, are stored in the auxiliary storage. By executing these programs, various functions (software modules) that meet the specified purpose can be achieved. However, some or all of the functions of the distribution terminal 20 can also be implemented using hardware circuits such as ASICs or FPGAs.

[0059] The control unit 201 is a computing unit that implements the various functions of the distribution terminal 20 by executing a third program stored in the storage unit 202. The control unit 201 can be configured in the same way as the control unit 101 of the vehicle terminal 100.

[0060] Storage unit 202 stores various information. Storage unit 202 can be configured similarly to storage unit 102 of vehicle terminal 100. Storage unit 202 of distribution terminal 20 stores third programs executed by control unit 201 and data used by the third programs.

[0061] The input / output device 203 is a device that accepts image and voice input from the distributor and outputs images and voice from the cabin distributed from the audiovisual terminal 110 to the distributor. In one example, the input / output device 203 may include a camera for capturing images of the distributor, a microphone for inputting the distributor's voice, a display for outputting images distributed from the audiovisual terminal 110, and a speaker for outputting voice distributed from the audiovisual terminal 110. It should be noted that, similar to the input / output device 103 of the vehicle terminal 100, the display included in the input / output device 203 may be a touch panel display with sensors for sensing digital ink written by handwriting input using a writing instrument.

[0062] Communication I / F 204 is a communication interface used to connect the distribution terminal 20 to the network N1. In one example, communication I / F 204 may be configured to include a network interface board and / or a wireless communication interface for wireless communication, etc. In this embodiment, the distribution terminal 20 communicates data with the audiovisual terminal 110 and the operation management server 40 through communication I / F 204.

[0063] In the distribution terminal 20 configured as described above, the control unit 201 executes the third program of the storage unit 202, achieving the following functions: In the distribution terminal 20, in response to the arrival of the predetermined start time for content distribution, the control unit 201 begins distributing the content to the audiovisual terminal 110 via the communication I / F 204. When the predetermined end time for content distribution arrives as described above, the control unit 201 of the distribution terminal 20 ends the distribution of the content to the audiovisual terminal 110. Furthermore, in the distribution terminal 20, while the vehicle 10 is traveling from its origin to its destination (or while content is being distributed), the control unit 201 accesses a dedicated URL for the content distribution service by executing an application such as a web browser, causing the input / output device 203 to display a management webpage. At this time, the URL accessed by the distribution terminal 20 is the same as the URL accessed by the vehicle terminal 100. That is, the management webpage displayed by the input / output device 203 of the distribution terminal 20 is the same as the management webpage displayed by the input / output device 103 of the vehicle terminal 100. Furthermore, in response to the distributor making a handwriting input on the display screen of the management webpage via the input / output device 203, the control unit 201 of the distribution terminal 20 detects the input digital ink. The control unit 201 of the distribution terminal 20 then sends write data containing the detected digital ink and the terminal ID of the distribution terminal 20 to the operation management server 40 via the communication I / F 204.

[0064] Regarding the specific hardware configuration of the distribution terminal 20, the constituent elements can be appropriately omitted, replaced, or added according to the implementation method.

[0065] (Operation Management Terminal)

[0066] In this embodiment, the operation management terminal 30 is a computer used by the operation manager of the vehicle 10. The operation management terminal 30 in this embodiment includes a control unit 301, a storage unit 302, an input / output device 303, and a communication I / F 304. Such an operation management terminal 30 can be implemented using a PC (Personal Computer), a smartphone, or a tablet terminal.

[0067] Similar to the vehicle-mounted terminal 100, the operation management terminal 30 can be configured as a computer with a processor (CPU or DSP, etc.), main storage devices (RAM and ROM, etc.), and auxiliary storage devices (EPROM, hard disk drive, and removable media, etc.). Various programs, such as the OS and application programs, are stored in the auxiliary storage devices. By executing these programs, various functions (software modules) that meet the specified purposes can be achieved. However, some or all of the functions of the operation management terminal 30 can also be implemented using hardware circuits such as ASICs or FPGAs.

[0068] The control unit 301 is a computing unit that executes the fourth program stored in the storage unit 302 to realize the various functions of the operation management terminal 30. The control unit 301 can be configured in the same way as the control unit 101 of the vehicle terminal 100.

[0069] Storage unit 302 stores various information. Storage unit 302 can be configured similarly to storage unit 102 of vehicle terminal 100. Storage unit 302 stores a fourth program executed by control unit 301 and data used by the fourth program.

[0070] The input / output device 303 is a device that accepts input operations performed by the operation manager and presents information to the operation manager. Similar to the input / output device 103 of the vehicle terminal 100, the input / output device 303 in this embodiment may be a touch panel display with a sensor for sensing digital ink input via a writing instrument. It should be noted that the input / output device 303 may also be configured to include, in addition to a touch panel display, a microphone for inputting voice, a speaker for outputting voice, and a camera for capturing images.

[0071] Communication I / F 304 is a communication interface used to connect the operation management terminal 30 to the network N1. In one example, communication I / F 304 can be configured similarly to communication I / F 204 of the distribution terminal 20. In this embodiment, the operation management terminal 30 communicates with the vehicle 10 and the operation management server 40 via communication I / F 304.

[0072] In the operation management terminal 30 configured as described above, the control unit 301 executes the fourth program in the storage unit 302, achieving the following functions: In response to receiving operation data sent from the vehicle 10 and / or the operation management server 40, the control unit 301 outputs a map display reflecting the received operation data via the input / output device 303. Furthermore, in the operation management terminal 30, when the vehicle 10 is traveling from its origin to its destination (or when content is being distributed), the control unit 301 accesses a dedicated URL for the content distribution service by executing an application such as a web browser, causing the input / output device 303 to display a management webpage. At this time, the URL accessed by the operation management terminal 30 is the same as the URL accessed by the vehicle terminal 100 and the distribution terminal 20. That is, the management webpage displayed by the input / output device 303 of the operation management terminal 30 is the same as the management webpage displayed by the input / output device 103 of the vehicle terminal 100 and the input / output device 203 of the distribution terminal 20. Furthermore, in response to the operation manager making a handwriting input on the display screen of the management webpage via the input / output device 303, the control unit 301 of the operation management terminal 30 detects the input digital ink. The control unit 301 of the operation management terminal 30 then sends write data containing the detected digital ink and the terminal ID of the operation management terminal 30 to the operation management server 40 via the communication I / F 304.

[0073] Regarding the specific hardware configuration of the operation management terminal 30, the constituent elements can be appropriately omitted, replaced, or added according to the implementation method.

[0074] (Running Management Server)

[0075] In this embodiment, the operation management server 40 is a computer that performs information processing related to the operation of the vehicle 10, and is configured to include a control unit 401, a storage unit 402, and a communication I / F 403. Such an operation management server 40 can be implemented by a single computer or by a combination of multiple computers.

[0076] The operation management server 40 can be configured as a computer with a processor (CPU or DSP, etc.), main storage devices (RAM and ROM, etc.), and auxiliary storage devices (EPROM, hard disk drives, and removable media, etc.). Various programs, such as the OS and application programs, are stored in the auxiliary storage devices. By executing these programs, various functions (software modules) can be achieved for the specified purpose. However, some or all of the functions of the operation management server 40 can also be implemented using hardware circuits such as ASICs or FPGAs.

[0077] The control unit 401 is a computing unit that executes the fifth program stored in the storage unit 402 to perform the various functions of the operation management server 40. The control unit 401 may also be configured in the same way as the control unit 101 of the vehicle terminal 100.

[0078] Storage unit 402 stores various types of information. Storage unit 402 can be configured similarly to storage unit 102 of vehicle terminal 100. Storage unit 402 stores a fifth program executed by control unit 401 and data used by the fifth program, etc.

[0079] Communication I / F 403 is a communication interface used to connect the operation management server 40 to the network N1. In one example, communication I / F 403 can be configured similarly to communication I / F 204 of the distribution terminal 20. In this embodiment, the operation management server 40 communicates with the vehicle terminal 100, the distribution terminal 20, and the operation management terminal 30 via communication I / F 403.

[0080] In the operation management server 40 configured as described above, the control unit 401 executes the fifth program of the storage unit 402, achieving the following function: In the operation management server 40, in response to receiving distribution information sent from the distribution terminal 20 or the operation management terminal 30 via the communication I / F 403, the control unit 401 determines a predetermined driving route. In one example, the control unit 401 can determine a predetermined driving route from one of more than one routes that does not pass through areas with communication quality less than a predetermined quality, from which the vehicle 10, which is predicted to depart from the origin at the predetermined start time of content distribution, will arrive at the destination within a predetermined period including the predetermined end time of distribution (e.g., within ten minutes before or after the predetermined end time of distribution). The predetermined quality can be set, for example, to be at least one of the following: Reference Signal Received Power (RSRP), Reference Signal Received Quality (RSRQ), and Signal-to-Interference Plus Noise Ratio (SINR) being greater than or equal to the value required for content distribution. Alternatively, the specified quality can be set such that the duration of a state where the data transmission speed of at least one of the uplink and downlink is less than a specified speed is less than a threshold. In response to the predetermined travel route being determined, the control unit 401 of the operation management server 40 sends route information to the vehicle 10 and the operation management terminal 30. As described above, the route information includes the origin of the vehicle 10, the destination of the vehicle 10, the predetermined start time of content distribution, the predetermined end time of content distribution, and the predetermined travel route.

[0081] Furthermore, the control unit 401 of the operation management server 40 interacts with the vehicle terminal 100, the distribution terminal 20, and the operation management terminal 30 by executing a web server. Specifically, in response to the vehicle terminal 100, the distribution terminal 20, and the operation management terminal 30 accessing the content distribution service dedicated URL, the control unit 401 generates a seating chart of the vehicle 10 as the target, and causes the web browsers of the vehicle terminal 100, the distribution terminal 20, and the operation management terminal 30 to display a management webpage containing the generated seating chart.

[0082] Figure 3 This is a diagram representing an example of a webpage used for administration. Figure 3 The management webpage shown is in its default state, before any writes were made by the crew, distributors, or operations managers. The default management webpage includes a GUI (Graphical User Interface) component G31 representing the seating arrangement of vehicle 10. The seating arrangement GUI component G31 includes multiple GUI components G32 representing the individual configurations of the various passenger seats equipped in vehicle 10. The individual passenger GUI components G32 display identification information for each passenger seat. Figure 3 The text includes A through E, identification information of passengers seated in each seat (name or nickname, etc.), and preference information of passengers seated in each seat (supported players or teams, etc.).

[0083] Each passenger's identification information, preference information, and seat information can be stored in the storage unit 402 of the operation management server 40 when each passenger makes a reservation for vehicle 10. In this case, the control unit 401 of the operation management server 40 can generate a seating chart for the management webpage displayed in the default state based on the information stored in the storage unit 402. It should be noted that in the embodiment where each passenger's seat is determined when boarding vehicle 10, the attendant can send information to the operation management server 40 via the onboard terminal 100 to establish a connection between the passenger's identification information and the seat identification information. In this case, the control unit 401 of the operation management server 40 can generate a seating chart for the management webpage displayed in the default state based on the information received from the onboard terminal 100 and the information stored in the storage unit 402.

[0084] When the display has the following Figure 3When handwriting input based on the display screen of the management webpage is performed on any of the following terminals—vehicle terminal 100, distribution terminal 20, and operation management terminal 30—writing data is sent from that terminal to the operation management server 40. As described above, the writing data includes the written digital ink and the terminal ID of the terminal that performed the writing (the terminal that sent the writing data). When such writing data is received via the communication I / F 403 of the operation management server 40, the control unit 401 determines the position and shape of the stroke entered by the writing tool based on the digital ink contained in the writing data, and draws the determined stroke at the determined position on the mounting diagram, thereby reflecting the writing on the mounting diagram. Then, the control unit 401 causes the web browsers of the vehicle terminal 100, distribution terminal 20, and operation management terminal 30 to display the management webpage containing the mounting diagram reflecting the writing.

[0085] Figure 4 This diagram illustrates an example of an administrative webpage that reflects writes made by one of the users: a flight attendant, a distributor, or an operations manager. Figure 4 In the example shown, the GUI component G32 of passenger seat A is shown as being written to among the GUI components G32 of the multiple passenger seats included in the GUI component 31 of the seating chart. When such a management webpage is displayed on the in-vehicle terminal 100, the distribution terminal 20, and the operation management terminal 30, users who have not written to the GUI component can view the writing related to the passenger seated in passenger seat A. As an example, if the writing is done by a flight attendant, the distributor can provide the topic corresponding to the writing to the passenger in passenger seat A, or have a conversation with the passenger in passenger seat A related to the topic corresponding to the writing. Thus, the distributor can communicate smoothly with the passenger in passenger seat A.

[0086] Regarding the specific hardware configuration of the operation management server 40, the constituent elements can be appropriately omitted, replaced, or added according to the implementation method.

[0087] (Processing flow)

[0088] Here, based on Figure 5 The process flow executed by the operation management server 40 in this embodiment will be described. Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating a processing routine executed by the operation management server 40 when at least one of the in-vehicle terminal 100, the distribution terminal 20, and the operation management terminal 30 accesses a content distribution service-specific URL via a web browser.

[0089] When at least one of the attendants, distributors, and operations managers accesses the content delivery service dedicated URL through a web browser of at least one of the terminals (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "terminals"), the control unit 401 of the operations management server 40 generates a seating chart of the vehicle 10, which is the object of the content delivery service dedicated URL (step S101). In one example, the control unit 401 draws the passenger identification information and preference information into a diagram based on the information stored in the storage unit 402 (passenger identification information, preference information, and seat number of the object vehicle 10). Figure 3 In the example shown, the GUI component G32 for the passenger seats generates the seating chart of the vehicle 10 as the object. When the processing of step S101 is completed, the control unit 401 executes the processing of step S102.

[0090] In step S102, the control unit 401 causes the web browsers of all terminals accessing the content delivery service's dedicated URL to display a management webpage containing the mapping diagram generated in step S101 (for example, referring to...). Figure 3 When step S102 is completed, the control unit 401 executes step S103.

[0091] In step S103, the control unit 401 determines whether write data has been received from any of the terminals that are accessing the content distribution service's dedicated URL. If the communication I / F 403 of the operation management server 40 receives write data sent from the terminal (a positive determination in step S103), the control unit 401 executes the processing in step S104.

[0092] In step S104, the control unit 401 plots the write data corresponding to the write data received by the communication I / F 403 onto the mounting diagram generated in step S101. Specifically, the control unit 401 first determines the position (position of the stroke in the mounting diagram) and shape of the stroke input by the writing tool in the terminal of the write data sending source, based on the digital ink contained in the write data. The control unit 401 plots the determined stroke shape onto the determined position in the mounting diagram generated in step S101 (for example, referring to...). Figure 4 When step S104 is completed, the control unit 401 executes step S105.

[0093] In step S105, the control unit 401 updates (changes) the management webpage displayed on the web browsers of all terminals accessing the content delivery service's dedicated URL to a management webpage containing the mapping diagram generated in step S104. After completing the processing in step S105, the control unit 401 executes the processing after step S103 again.

[0094] It should be noted that if a negative determination is made in step S103 (when the communication I / F 403 of the operation management server 40 does not receive write data from more than one terminal accessing the dedicated URL of the content distribution service), the control unit 401 executes the processing of step S106. In step S106, the control unit 401 determines whether the distribution of content to the target vehicle 10 has ended. At this time, if the scheduled end time of content distribution has arrived, the control unit 401 can determine that the content distribution has ended. Alternatively, if the vehicle 10 has reached its destination, the control unit 401 can also determine that the content distribution has ended. If it is determined that the content distribution has not ended (a negative determination in step S106), the control unit 401 executes the processing after step S103 again. On the other hand, if it is determined that the content distribution has ended (a positive determination in step S106), the control unit 401 ends the process. Figure 5 The execution of the processing routine.

[0095] (The role and effects of the implementation method)

[0096] In the system described above, while vehicle 10 is traveling from its origin to its destination (while content is being distributed to vehicle 10), the attendant, distributor, and operations manager can access a dedicated URL for the content distribution service via their respective terminals to view a management webpage containing the seating chart of vehicle 10. This allows the attendant, distributor, and operations manager to access identification and preference information of passengers seated in the various seats equipped in vehicle 10.

[0097] Furthermore, in the system described above, when one of the users—a flight attendant, distributor, or operations manager—makes a handwritten input on the management webpage display, the management webpage reflecting that input is also displayed on the terminal of the user who did not make the input. Thus, the user who did not make the input can also view it. As a result, the user who did not make the input can also refer to the input to communicate more smoothly with passengers.

[0098] <Other>

[0099] The above-described embodiments are merely examples, and this disclosure can be implemented with appropriate modifications without departing from its spirit. For example, in the above embodiments, an example has been described whereby the operation management server 40 interacts with the vehicle terminal 100, the distribution terminal 20, and the operation management terminal 30 by executing a network server, thereby displaying, accepting, and responding to writes of management web pages. However, the operation management server 40 may also achieve the above-described functions using methods other than a network server. For example, the operation management server 40 may also display, accept, and respond to writes of management web pages by executing a service that communicates with dedicated application software installed on the vehicle terminal 100, the distribution terminal 20, and the operation management terminal 30 respectively through a defined protocol.

[0100] This disclosure can also be implemented by supplying a computer program (information processing program) that implements the functions described in the above embodiments to a computer, which then reads and executes the program using one or more processors. Such a computer program can be provided to the computer via a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium connectable to the computer's system bus, or it can be provided to the computer via a network.

Claims

1. An information processing device for managing the distribution of content to passengers in a vehicle, wherein, The information processing device includes a control unit, which performs the following actions: Multiple terminals display a first user interface screen, wherein the first user interface screen displays a seating chart containing identification information of the passengers respectively seated in the multiple seats equipped in the vehicle. The input written on the first user interface screen is accepted from one of the plurality of terminals; The input is drawn at the location where the input is made in the first user interface screen, thereby generating a second user interface screen; and The second user interface screen is displayed on multiple terminals.

2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The passenger identification information includes the passenger's name.

3. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The content described is related to the prescribed activities. In addition to passenger identification information, the information displayed in the seating chart also includes passenger preference information associated with the specified activities.

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