In-vehicle device, program, and information processing method

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to an in-vehicle device, a program, and an information processing method. Efficiency of determination processing of a geofence is achieved. The program of one aspect of the present disclosure is a program for causing an in-vehicle device to execute an information processing method. The information processing method includes: acquiring vehicle information indicating a current state of a vehicle; selecting whether or not to execute determination of a geofence, based on the acquired vehicle information; in a case where determination of the geofence is selected to be executed, acquiring a current position measured by a positioning module, executing determination of the geofence based on the acquired current position, and outputting information related to a result of the determination; and in a case where determination of the geofence is selected not to be executed, omitting execution of determination of the geofence.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a program, an in-vehicle device, and an information processing method. Background Technology

[0002] In recent years, the development of geofencing technology has been progressing. A geofencing area is defined by a virtual boundary line. Essentially, geofencing technology determines whether a user (or device) is inside or outside the geofence based on their current location. This inside / outside determination can include whether the user (or device) has entered or exited the geofence. Then, based on the result of this determination, any action can be taken.

[0003] For example, Patent Document 1 proposes a system that obtains the location of a user device, determines whether it has entered a geofence based on the obtained location, and provides a warning if it has entered a geofence. Patent Document 2 proposes a system in which a server device distributes geofence definition data existing within a predetermined range (a threshold distance range) from the current location of a client device to each client device, and each client device performs geofence determination processing according to the distributed definition data.

[0004] Existing technical documents

[0005] Patent documents

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Publication No. 2016-528564

[0007] Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Publication No. 2018-507568 Summary of the Invention

[0008] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0009] One of the purposes of this disclosure is to provide a technique for making geofencing determination more efficient.

[0010] Technical solutions for solving the problem

[0011] The first aspect of this disclosure provides a procedure for causing an on-board device to perform an information processing method. The information processing method includes: obtaining vehicle information representing the current state of the vehicle; selecting whether to perform a geofencing determination based on the obtained vehicle information; if the geofencing determination is selected, obtaining the current location determined by a positioning module, performing the geofencing determination based on the obtained current location, and outputting information related to the determination result; and if the geofencing determination is not selected, omitting the execution of the geofencing determination.

[0012] The second embodiment of this disclosure includes a vehicle-mounted device with a control unit. The control unit is configured to perform the following steps: acquiring vehicle information indicating the current state of the vehicle; selecting whether to perform a geofencing determination based on the acquired vehicle information; if the geofencing determination is selected, acquiring the current location determined by the positioning module, performing the geofencing determination based on the acquired current location, and outputting information related to the determination result; and if the geofencing determination is not selected, omitting the execution of the geofencing determination.

[0013] The information processing method of the third embodiment of this disclosure is executed by a computer. The information processing method includes: obtaining vehicle information representing the current state of the vehicle; selecting whether to perform a geofencing determination based on the obtained vehicle information; if the geofencing determination is selected, obtaining the current position determined by the positioning module, performing the geofencing determination based on the obtained current position, and outputting information related to the determination result; and if the geofencing determination is not selected, omitting the execution of the geofencing determination.

[0014] Invention Effects

[0015] According to this disclosure, the efficiency of geofencing determination and processing can be expected to be improved. Attached Figure Description

[0016] Figure 1 An example of a scenario in which this disclosure is applied is illustrated schematically.

[0017] Figure 2 An example of a method for defining the geometry (area) of a geofence disclosed herein is illustrated schematically.

[0018] Figure 3 An example of a method for defining the geometry (area) of a geofence disclosed herein is illustrated schematically.

[0019] Figure 4 An example of a method for defining the geometry (area) of a geofence disclosed herein is illustrated schematically.

[0020] Figure 5 An example of a method for merging the geometry of this disclosure is illustrated schematically.

[0021] Figure 6 An example of a method for merging the geometry of this disclosure is illustrated schematically.

[0022] Figure 7 An example of a method for merging the geometry of this disclosure is illustrated schematically.

[0023] Figure 8An example of the conditions for the execution of this disclosure is illustrated schematically.

[0024] Figure 9 An example of the conditions for the execution of this disclosure is illustrated schematically.

[0025] Figure 10 An example of the conditions for the execution of this disclosure is illustrated schematically.

[0026] Figure 11 This illustration schematically shows an example of the structure (data construction) of the geofencing definition data of this disclosure.

[0027] Figure 12 An example of the hardware structure of the vehicle-mounted device disclosed herein is illustrated schematically.

[0028] Figure 13 An example of the software architecture of the vehicle-mounted device disclosed herein is illustrated schematically.

[0029] Figure 14 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the processing sequence related to the determination of geofencing in this disclosure.

[0030] (Symbol Explanation)

[0031] 1: Vehicle-mounted device; 11: Control unit; 12: Storage unit; 13: External interface; 16: Positioning module; 20: Vehicle information; 201: Driving speed; 203: Driving mode; 205: Shooting mode; 25: Current location; 30: Geofencing definition data; 81: Program; 91: Storage medium; MV: Vehicle; S: Vehicle-mounted sensor; S1: Vehicle speed sensor; DR: Driving recorder. Detailed Implementation

[0032] In scenarios where geofencing is applied to vehicles, performing geofencing decision-making processes periodically can lead to wasted processing. For example, consider a scenario where a geofence is set up to warn vehicles traveling at speeds above a predetermined speed. In this scenario, if the vehicle travels at a speed below the predetermined speed and therefore does not issue a warning, performing geofencing decision-making processes despite this could become wasteful.

[0033] In this regard, the first solution of this disclosure is a program for causing an on-board device to perform an information processing method. The information processing method includes: obtaining vehicle information indicating the current state of the vehicle; selecting whether to perform a geofencing determination based on the obtained vehicle information; if the geofencing determination is selected, obtaining the current location determined by the positioning module, performing the geofencing determination based on the obtained current location, and outputting information related to the determination result; and if the geofencing determination is not selected, omitting the execution of the geofencing determination.

[0034] According to the first solution of this disclosure, the decision-making process for geofencing can be controlled based on the current state of the vehicle (vehicle information). Therefore, for example, in the scenario described above, if the execution of geofencing decision-making is omitted because the vehicle is traveling at a low speed, or if the vehicle's state indicates that geofencing is unnecessary, the execution of geofencing decision-making can be omitted. Thus, wasteful decision-making processes can be suppressed, and the efficiency of geofencing decision-making can be expected to be improved.

[0035] Furthermore, the present disclosure may not be limited to the procedures described above. As other aspects of the procedures described above, one aspect of this disclosure may be an information processing apparatus (vehicle-mounted device) that implements all or part of the above structural elements, an information processing method, or a machine-readable storage medium such as a computer storing a program. Here, the machine-readable storage medium may be a non-transitory medium that stores information such as programs through electrical, magnetic, optical, mechanical, or chemical action. Non-transitory storage media may include storage media (CDs, DVDs, semiconductor memories, etc.), auxiliary storage devices for computers, external storage devices connected to computers, etc.

[0036] For example, the vehicle-mounted device of the second embodiment of this disclosure may include a control unit. The control unit may be configured to perform the following steps: acquiring vehicle information indicating the current state of the vehicle; selecting whether to perform a geofencing determination based on the acquired vehicle information; if the geofencing determination is selected to be performed, acquiring the current position determined by the positioning module, performing the geofencing determination based on the acquired current position, and outputting information related to the determination result; and if the geofencing determination is not selected to be performed, omitting the execution of the geofencing determination.

[0037] Alternatively, for example, the information processing method of the third embodiment of this disclosure can be executed by a computer. The information processing method may include: obtaining vehicle information representing the current state of the vehicle; selecting whether to perform a geofencing determination based on the obtained vehicle information; if the geofencing determination is selected, obtaining the current location determined by the positioning module, performing the geofencing determination based on the obtained current location, and outputting information related to the determination result; and if the geofencing determination is not selected, omitting the execution of the geofencing determination.

[0038] The following describes one aspect of the present disclosure based on the accompanying drawings. However, the embodiments described below are merely examples of the present disclosure in all respects. Various modifications or variations can be made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. When implementing the present disclosure, specific structures corresponding to the embodiments may also be appropriately adopted. Furthermore, the data appearing in this embodiment is described using natural language, but more specifically, it is specified using pseudo-language, instructions, parameters, machine language, electrical signals, etc., that can be recognized by machines such as computers.

[0039] [1 Application Example]

[0040] Figure 1 An example of a scenario in which this disclosure is applied is illustrated schematically. The vehicle-mounted device 1 of this embodiment is configured as one or more computers that store geofence definition data 30 in memory resources and execute geofence determination processing defined by the stored geofence definition data 30 at arbitrary time intervals.

[0041] In this embodiment, the vehicle-mounted device 1 acquires vehicle information 20 representing the current state of the vehicle MV. Based on the acquired vehicle information 20, the vehicle-mounted device 1 selects whether to perform a geofencing determination. If geofencing determination is selected, the vehicle-mounted device 1 acquires the current location 25 determined by the positioning module 16. The vehicle-mounted device 1 performs geofencing determination based on the acquired current location 25. Then, the vehicle-mounted device 1 outputs information (result information) 40 related to the determination result. On the other hand, if geofencing determination is not selected, the vehicle-mounted device 1 omits the execution of geofencing determination.

[0042] Furthermore, the geofence determination can be configured by determining whether the current location 25 is inside or outside the geofence defined by the maintained geofence definition data 30. This geofence determination can also be continuously performed. When geofence determination is continuously performed, the vehicle-mounted device 1 can further determine the migration state of the vehicle MV relative to the geofence based on the previous and current determination results. The categories of migration states can be appropriately defined according to the implementation method. In one example, the categories of migration states can include at least one of: remaining outside the geofence, entering from outside the geofence, remaining inside the geofence, and exiting from inside the geofence. Furthermore, in the following description, the determination of whether the current location 25 is inside or outside the geofence (i.e., the geofence determination) is also referred to as "geofence inside / outside determination".

[0043] As described above, in this embodiment, the decision-making process for geofencing can be controlled based on the current state of the vehicle MV (vehicle information 20). Therefore, in scenarios where it can be determined from the state of the vehicle MV that geofencing is unnecessary, the geofencing decision can be omitted. Thus, according to this embodiment, wasteful decision-making processes can be suppressed, and the efficiency of geofencing decision-making can be expected to be improved.

[0044] [Vehicle-mounted device]

[0045] The vehicle-mounted device 1 can be any computer that is at least temporarily equipped in the vehicle MV. For example, the vehicle-mounted device 1 can be an in-vehicle device mounted on the vehicle MV, or a terminal device (user terminal, etc.) temporarily equipped in the vehicle MV when a user uses the vehicle MV. In one example, the vehicle-mounted device 1 can also be a computer that constitutes at least part of the vehicle MV. In another example, the vehicle MV can have a computer independent of the vehicle-mounted device 1, and the vehicle-mounted device 1 can also be connected to that computer for use.

[0046] In this embodiment, the vehicle-mounted device 1 is configured to obtain the current position (current position 25) determined by the positioning module 16. The positioning module 16 can be disposed in any location where the position of the vehicle MV can be determined. In one example, the vehicle-mounted device 1 may also have the positioning module 16 internally (i.e., it may be built-in). In another example, the positioning module 16 may be disposed externally to the vehicle-mounted device 1 (e.g., the vehicle MV, etc.). The vehicle-mounted device 1 may be directly or indirectly connected to the externally mounted positioning module 16. Indirect connection can be configured by connecting via a network (Controller Area Network, etc.), other computers, etc.

[0047] Furthermore, the current position 25 can be the original position determined by the positioning module 16, the position obtained by correcting the measurement result of the positioning module 16 using any method, or the position predicted based on the measurement result of the positioning module 16. In one example, the positioning module 16 can indirectly determine the current position of the vehicle MV by being mounted on an onboard device 1 equipped in the vehicle MV. In another example, the positioning module 16 can also directly determine the current position of the vehicle MV by being mounted on the vehicle MV.

[0048] [vehicle]

[0049] The type of vehicle (MV) is not particularly limited and can be appropriately selected according to the implementation method. Vehicle MVs can include manually driven vehicles and autonomous vehicles. For example, vehicle MVs can be selected from two-wheeled, three-wheeled, and four-wheeled vehicles. The power source of the vehicle MV can be selected from electricity, fuel, etc. In one example, the vehicle MV can be a hybrid vehicle. Furthermore, the size of the vehicle MV can be arbitrarily selected. For example, when the vehicle MV is a car, the size can be selected from large, medium, semi-medium, ordinary, large-special, small-special, etc. When the vehicle MV is a two-wheeled vehicle, the size can be selected from large, ordinary, etc.

[0050] [Vehicle Information]

[0051] Vehicle information 20 may include all information related to the state of the vehicle (MV). For example, vehicle information 20 may include information such as driving speed, driving mode, and dashcam recording mode. Vehicle information 20 serves as the indicator for determining whether to execute geofencing. The types of vehicle information 20 used as this indicator (in other words, the vehicle information 20 referred to during the determination) may be appropriately selected based on implementation methods such as the conditions for determining whether to execute geofencing. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the conditions for determining whether to execute geofencing are also referred to as "determination execution conditions".

[0052] The vehicle-mounted device 1 can appropriately obtain vehicle information 20 from the vehicle MV. In one example, where it constitutes at least a part of the vehicle MV, the vehicle-mounted device 1 can obtain vehicle information 20 from information stored in its own memory resources. Obtaining information from the memory resources of the device may also include obtaining information from the vehicle MV. In another example, when used in connection with a computer connected to the vehicle MV, the vehicle-mounted device 1 can also obtain vehicle information 20 from structural elements of the vehicle MV, such as an ECU (Electronic Control Unit).

[0053] Furthermore, at least a portion of the vehicle information 20 (driving speed, etc.) can be obtained through the onboard sensor S. The type of onboard sensor S used is not particularly limited and can be appropriately selected depending on the implementation method. The onboard sensor S may include, for example, a vehicle speed sensor, a positioning module, etc. The onboard device 1 can be directly or indirectly connected to the onboard sensor S and can obtain at least a portion of the vehicle information 20 from the connected onboard sensor S. The onboard sensor S may include, for example, a camera or other sensor used to observe the state of the occupants of the vehicle MV. The state of the vehicle MV may also include the state of the occupants observed by the sensor.

[0054] In another example, the current state represented by vehicle information 20 can be the time point at which the decision to perform geofencing is made, or the state of vehicles (MVs) within its vicinity. Vehicle information 20 representing the current state can be obtained at any time prior to the decision to perform geofencing. For example, the vehicle-mounted device 1 can also obtain vehicle information 20 just before the process for making the decision to perform geofencing. However, the timing of obtaining vehicle information 20 is not limited to this example and can be appropriately changed depending on the implementation. The timing of obtaining vehicle information 20 may also not be just before the process for making the decision to perform geofencing. Furthermore, the current state can be the original state obtained from the vehicle MV, the state obtained by correcting the information obtained from the vehicle MV using any method, or the state predicted based on the information obtained from the vehicle MV.

[0055] [Geofencing]

[0056] A geofence is a region enclosed by virtual boundaries set on a map. Based on detection of events such as entering the region, arbitrary actions can be performed. Therefore, in one example, a geofence can be defined by delineating the geometry of the region (geographical extent) and the actions associated with that region.

[0057] (Geometric structure)

[0058] The method for defining the geometric structure is not particularly limited and can be appropriately selected based on the implementation method. Well-known methods can also be used to define the geometric structure. The information of the geometric structure can include arbitrary information used to delineate the area (geographical extent).

[0059] Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 This illustration schematically shows an example of a method for defining the geometry GM (region) of a geofence according to this embodiment. In one example, such as Figure 2As shown, the geometric structure GM can be defined by its center coordinates CC and radius r. In this case, the geofence region can be defined as a circular area with radius r starting from the center coordinates CC. The circumference of the circle with radius r centered at CC is the boundary line of the geofence region. When the channel RP is given, the intersection point BD of the geofence boundary line and the channel RP is the boundary of the geofence on the channel RP. Furthermore, the channel RP can be given in any way. For example, the channel RP can be a road, airway, flight path, etc. The channel RP can be given realistically in real space or virtually. The channel RP can also be omitted.

[0060] In one example, such as Figure 3 As shown, the geometry GM can be defined by the coordinates of feature points FC. In this case, the geofence area can be demarcated as the extent of a closed polygon formed by connecting adjacent feature points FC to each other. The lines connecting the feature points FC are the boundary lines of the geofence area. The channel RP and the boundary (intersection BD) are... Figure 2 The examples are the same. Furthermore, in Figure 3 In one example, six feature points FC are specified. However, the number of feature points FC is not limited to this example and can be appropriately selected according to the implementation method. The number of feature points FC can be any number of more than three.

[0061] In one example, such as Figure 4 As shown, the geometric structure GM can be defined by the road segment LC and its distance d. In this case, the geofence area can be defined as a capsule-shaped region at a distance d from the road segment LC. The outer perimeter of the capsule shape at a distance d from the road segment LC is the boundary line of the geofence area. The passage RP and the boundary (intersection BD) are... Figure 2The example is the same. Furthermore, the road segment LC can be appropriately defined. The road segment LC can be given as a channel RP such as a road segment, or it can be given independently of the channel RP. The information of the road segment LC can be appropriately constructed. For example, the information of the road segment LC can include identification information such as the road segment ID. The range information representing the range of the road segment LC can be stored in any storage area in association with the identification information. Thus, the information of the road segment LC can be constructed to indirectly represent the range of the road segment LC. Alternatively, for example, the information of the road segment LC can also be constructed to directly represent the range of the road segment LC by including the aforementioned range information. For example, the range of the road segment LC can be defined by endpoints (LC1, LC2). The endpoints (LC1, LC2) can also be referred to as the start point or the end point, respectively. According to an example of this geometric structure GM, by increasing the width of the road segment LC by a distance d, it is easier to perform geofencing determination processing (detection of events in a region) compared to the case where geofencing is constructed solely by road segments LC.

[0062] (Merging of geometric structures)

[0063] A geofencing area can be defined using either a single geometric structure or multiple geometric structures. When defining an area using multiple geometric structures, these structures can be appropriately combined. The method of combining geometric structures is not particularly restricted and can be chosen appropriately based on the implementation method. In one example, the combination of geometric structures can be defined using logical operators such as logical OR, logical AND, and logical XOR.

[0064] Figure 5 An example of a logical OR method for merging the geometries (GM1, GM2) of this embodiment is illustrated schematically. Figure 5 In this scenario, a logical OR operation is used as the logical operator for merging two geometries (GM1, GM2). In this case, the geofence area is defined as a region that includes at least one of geometries GM1 or GM2. If the region belongs to at least one of geometries GM1 and GM2, the current location (current location 25) is determined to be inside the geofence. If the region does not belong to either geometries GM1 or GM2, the current location is determined to be outside the geofence. Figure 5 Given the channel RP, the two intersection points BD of the outer perimeter (boundary line) of the combined geometry (GM1, GM2) and the channel RP constitute the boundary of the geofence on the channel RP.

[0065] Figure 6 An example of a logical AND method for merging the geometries (GM1, GM2) of this embodiment is schematically shown. Figure 6 In this scenario, a logical AND operation is used as the logical operator to merge two geometries (GM1, GM2). In this case, the geofence is defined as the overlapping area of ​​geometries GM1 and GM2. If the current location belongs to both geometries GM1 and GM2, it is determined that the current location is inside the geofence. If the current location belongs to only one of geometries GM1 and GM2, or not to either, it is determined that the current location is outside the geofence. In such cases... Figure 6 Given the channel RP, the outer perimeter of the overlapping area of ​​the two geometries (GM1, GM2) and the two intersection points BD of the channel RP form the boundary of the geofence on the channel RP.

[0066] Figure 7 An example of a merging method (logical XOR) for the geometry (GM1, GM2) of this embodiment is illustrated schematically. Figure 7 In this scenario, we envision a logical XOR operation used to merge two geometries (GM1, GM2). In this case, the geofence is defined as the area of ​​only one of geometries GM1 and GM2. If the current location belongs to only one of geometries GM1 or GM2, it is determined that the current location is inside the geofence. If the current location belongs to an overlapping area of ​​geometries GM1 and GM2, or to an area that does not belong to either, it is determined that the current location is outside the geofence. In such cases... Figure 7 Given the channel RP, the boundary lines of each geometry (GM1, GM2) intersect the channel RP at two points BD, and the outer perimeter of the overlapping area of ​​the two geometry (GM1, GM2) intersects the channel RP at two points BD, which together form the boundaries of the geofence on the channel RP.

[0067] (action)

[0068] There are no particular restrictions on the method for defining an action; it can be appropriately selected based on the implementation method. Well-known methods can be used to define an action. In one example, an action can be defined by its execution content (action content) and execution conditions (action execution conditions). That is, an action can be defined by specifying "when" (execution conditions) to execute "what" (execution content) on a given geographical area (geometric structure).

[0069] (A) Action Content

[0070] The content of the actions can be appropriately determined based on the scenario, purpose, and other implementation methods of utilizing geofencing. For example, the actions may include any actions such as executing the control device (vehicle MV, vehicle-mounted device 1, vehicle-mounted sensor S, etc.), generating information, and outputting information. The actions of the control device may include, for example, causing the device to operate in a specific mode among multiple modes, causing the device to perform a predetermined action, permitting the execution of a predetermined action, or prohibiting the execution of a predetermined action. Generating information may include, for example, generating notifications to external computers. Outputting information may include, for example, prompting information to the user or sending information to an external computer.

[0071] In one example, a geofence can be associated with the speed of a vehicle's vehicle (MV). Action content can specify any action to be performed when the speed meets predetermined conditions. For example, action content could include notifying the user (driver, etc.) of a warning to slow down when the speed exceeds a predetermined value. As a specific example, the geofence could be set as a school zone. Action content could include notifying the user to slow down when the speed exceeds 30 km / h within a school zone. Action content could also include controlling the vehicle's MV to suppress the speed below a predetermined value. Additionally, for example, action content could include allowing the output of information when the speed is below a predetermined value. As a specific example, action content could include allowing (executing) the output of advertising information when the speed is below a predetermined value (including stopping), and prohibiting (omitting) the output of advertising information when the speed exceeds a predetermined value. The case where the speed is equal to the predetermined value can be included in either the case of a speed below the predetermined value or the case of a speed exceeding the predetermined value.

[0072] Additionally, in one example, a geofence can be associated with the driving mode of a vehicle (MV). The action content can specify any action to be performed when the driving mode meets predetermined conditions. For example, the vehicle (MV) can be a hybrid electric vehicle (HEV). The driving modes of a HEV can include electric vehicle mode (EV mode) and hybrid (electric) vehicle mode (HV / HEV mode). The geofence can be associated with a low emission zone. The action content can include controlling the vehicle's (MV's) driving mode and outputting information related to the low emission zone, at least one of these. As a specific example, the geofence can be set in a low emission zone. The action content can include, when the vehicle (MV) enters the geofence and its driving mode is hybrid electric vehicle mode, switching the vehicle's (MV's) driving mode from hybrid electric vehicle mode to electric vehicle mode or outputting a notification instructing a switch to electric vehicle mode.

[0073] In another example, the vehicle video (MV) may include a dashcam. The geofence may be associated with the dashcam's recording mode. The action content may specify any action related to the dashcam's recording mode. For example, the geofence may be associated with prohibiting recording. The action content may include at least one of controlling the dashcam's recording mode to off or outputting information related to prohibiting recording. As a specific example, the geofence may be set as a prohibited recording area. The action content may include, when the vehicle video enters the geofence and the dashcam's recording mode is on, switching the dashcam's recording mode from on to off or outputting a notification indicating that the recording mode has been switched off.

[0074] Furthermore, the actions may not be limited to the examples described above and can be appropriately specified according to the implementation method. For example, the actions may include notifying an external computer (server, etc.) of the movement status of the vehicle MV. The movement status of the vehicle MV may include, for example, approaching the destination, arriving at the destination, remaining at the destination, or departing from the destination. In one example, the vehicle MV may be a truck delivering goods, and the destination may be the delivery destination of the goods (store, etc.). Additionally, the actions may include, for example, activating the onboard sensor S when the current state of the vehicle MV meets predetermined conditions, and notifying an external computer of the sensing data obtained by the onboard sensor S.

[0075] Furthermore, the number of times an action is specified in the action content can be executed can be either once or multiple times. When multiple actions are defined in the action content, each action can be called a sub-action. Action content can be defined by a combination of multiple sub-actions. When action content is defined by a combination of multiple sub-actions, an execution priority order can be set for each sub-action. Additionally, execution dependencies can exist between at least some sub-actions, such as controlling whether a second sub-action can be executed or determining the execution content of a second sub-action based on the execution result of the first sub-action.

[0076] Furthermore, the content of the action can be determined statically in advance or dynamically based on predetermined conditions. Dynamic determination of the action content can be based on various conditions such as time period, date, weather, presence or absence of an event, user status, and device status (in-vehicle device 1, vehicle MV, etc.). As an example, the action content can also be defined to output advertisements based on time periods (outputting an advertisement for a coffee shop in the morning, and an advertisement for a restaurant in the evening, etc.).

[0077] (B) Conditions for execution of the action

[0078] Action execution conditions are the conditions used to determine whether to execute an action. Action execution conditions can be appropriately defined to include conditions related to events concerning a geofence as the object. Events concerning a geofence can be appropriately detected based on the results of a geofence-inside / outside determination. In a simple example, conditions related to an event concerning a geofence can include at least one of being inside the geofence and being outside the geofence. Additionally, the transit of positional relationships relative to the geofence can be monitored by continuously executing geofence-inside / outside determinations. Correspondingly, in one example, conditions related to an event concerning a geofence can also be detected based on the results of monitoring the transit of positional relationships relative to the geofence. For example, events concerning a geofence can include at least one of being outside the geofence, entering from outside the geofence, being inside the geofence, and exiting from inside the geofence. Being inside (outside) the geofence can also include at least one of being inside (outside) the geofence for more than a predetermined time and performing a predetermined movement inside (outside) the geofence.

[0079] Action execution conditions may also include any conditions other than those related to events targeting the geofence. In one example, action execution conditions may also include conditions related to the execution environment of the action. The execution environment may include all elements related to the status of the action. For example, the execution environment may include dynamic elements such as time period, date, weather, and the presence or absence of any events. Additionally, in one example, action execution conditions may also include conditions related to the status of the device (vehicle MV, vehicle-mounted device 1, etc.).

[0080] When determining whether a condition is met, the vehicle-mounted device 1 can appropriately obtain information for the determination from any information source. For example, the vehicle-mounted device 1 can determine whether action execution conditions other than those related to the geofence event are met, based on at least one of information stored within the device and information obtained from other devices connected to the device. If the action execution conditions include conditions related to the state of the vehicle MV, the vehicle-mounted device 1 can appropriately obtain vehicle information from the vehicle MV. The vehicle-mounted device 1 can determine whether the conditions related to the state of the vehicle MV are met based on the vehicle information obtained from the vehicle MV. The vehicle information used in determining the satisfaction of the action execution conditions may be at least partially the same as, or different from, the vehicle information 20 used in determining the satisfaction of the aforementioned action execution conditions.

[0081] In one example, regarding the geofence related to the vehicle's (MV) speed, the action execution conditions related to the vehicle's (MV) state may include conditions related to speed (e.g., thresholds, numerical ranges, etc.). For example, action execution conditions related to the vehicle's (MV) state may include either a speed exceeding a threshold or a speed below a threshold. If the action execution conditions include the former, the vehicle-mounted device 1 can determine that the action execution conditions are not met based on a speed below the threshold, and omit the execution of an action (such as a warning notification). Conversely, if the action execution conditions include the latter, the vehicle-mounted device 1 can determine that the action execution conditions are not met based on a speed exceeding the threshold, and omit the execution of an action (such as the output of advertising information).

[0082] Additionally, in one example, regarding the geofence associated with the low-emission zone, the action execution condition related to the state of the vehicle MV may include the vehicle MV being in a mode other than electric vehicle mode (e.g., hybrid vehicle mode). Correspondingly, if the vehicle MV is in electric vehicle mode before entering the geofence, the on-board device 1 may also determine that the action execution condition is not met, and omit the execution of the action to switch the vehicle MV's operating mode to electric vehicle mode.

[0083] Additionally, in one example, regarding the geofence related to the dashcam's recording mode, the action execution condition related to the vehicle's MV state may include the dashcam's recording mode being enabled (i.e., the dashcam is in operation). Correspondingly, if the dashcam's recording mode is disabled (dashcam stops) before entering the geofence, the vehicle device 1 can also determine that the action execution condition is not met, and omit the action of setting the dashcam's recording mode to disabled (prohibiting recording).

[0084] Additionally, in one example, the action execution conditions related to the state of the vehicle MV may include the absence of sound emitted by an application other than the application performing the action in the vehicle device 1. Accordingly, the vehicle device 1 may determine that the action execution conditions are not met during the period when the sound emitted by the other application is being emitted, and omit the execution of the action. Upon the termination of the sound emitted by the other application, the vehicle device 1 may determine that the action execution conditions have been met and execute the action defined by the action content.

[0085] Furthermore, once the action execution conditions are met, the action defined by the action content can be executed at any time. In one example, the action can be executed immediately at the time when the action execution conditions are met, or it can be executed after a predetermined delay time. Additionally, there is no particular limit to the number of times the action corresponding to the fulfillment of the action execution conditions can be appropriately determined according to the implementation method. In one example, the action can be executed only once, or it can be executed repeatedly under predetermined conditions.

[0086] In an action execution condition, one or more conditions can be defined. An action execution condition can also be a combination of multiple conditions. When it consists of a combination of multiple conditions, the action execution condition is deemed satisfied if any of the included conditions are met. In one example, regarding an action execution condition, it can be determined that it is satisfied if one condition is met or if at least two or more conditions are met. A priority order can also be set for each condition. The priority order can be set statically or dynamically based on the execution environment, etc. In this case, the judgment and processing of each condition can be performed according to the priority order. An action execution condition can also be called a triggering event.

[0087] (map)

[0088] Maps (map data) may be provided as appropriate. Map data may be appropriately structured to represent a map. The structure of the map data may employ a known structure. In one example, map data may be structured to include latitude and longitude coordinates, road network information, facility information, etc. Road network information may also include the IDs (road segment IDs) of each road (road segment). Map data may be stored in any storage area. Map data may be stored in at least one of the onboard device 1's memory resources and an external storage device. The external storage device may include storage devices of an external computer such as NAS (Network Attached Storage).

[0089] In the vehicle-mounted device 1, map data can be used for any purpose, such as displaying a designated area or location, or providing route guidance. If map data is used for any purpose without prior storage, the vehicle-mounted device 1 can appropriately obtain data for at least the area to be used from an external storage device. Known methods can be used to obtain the map data. In the vehicle-mounted device 1, the geofence determination process can be performed either in conjunction with the map data usage process or independently of it.

[0090] [Determine the execution conditions]

[0091] The decision execution conditions are the conditions used to determine whether to execute the geofencing. The above-mentioned action execution conditions are based on the determination of whether to execute the action according to the result of the determination of whether to execute the geofencing. In contrast, the decision execution conditions themselves determine whether to execute the determination of whether to execute the geofencing.

[0092] In this embodiment, the decision execution conditions may include conditions related to the state of the vehicle MV. The decision execution conditions may include conditions other than those related to the state of the vehicle MV, or they may exclude such other conditions and consist only of conditions related to the state of the vehicle MV. The decision execution conditions may be appropriately specified for each geofence. In one example of this embodiment, the decision execution conditions may include at least one of the following three conditions.

[0093] (1) Driving speed

[0094] Figure 8 An example of the determination execution condition (driving speed) in this embodiment is illustrated schematically. In one example, the geofence may be related to the driving speed of the vehicle MV. As an example of vehicle information 20, the vehicle-mounted device 1 can obtain the current driving speed 201 of the vehicle MV. That is, the current state of the vehicle MV represented by vehicle information 20 may include the driving speed 201 of the vehicle MV. The determination execution condition may be that the driving speed of the vehicle MV meets a predetermined numerical condition. Accordingly, the vehicle-mounted device 1 can select whether to perform the geofence determination based on whether the obtained driving speed 201 meets the predetermined numerical condition. If the driving speed 201 meets the predetermined numerical condition, the vehicle-mounted device 1 may choose to perform the geofence determination. On the other hand, if the driving speed 201 does not meet the predetermined numerical condition, the vehicle-mounted device 1 may choose not to perform the geofence determination.

[0095] The method for measuring the driving speed 201 is not particularly limited and can be appropriately selected according to the implementation method. In one example, the vehicle sensor S may include a vehicle speed sensor S1. The vehicle device 1 can obtain the driving speed 201 directly or indirectly from the vehicle speed sensor S1. In another example, the position of the vehicle MV can be continuously measured by the positioning module 16. The driving speed 201 can also be measured as a change in the position of the vehicle MV based on the result of this continuous measurement. According to an example of this embodiment, regarding the geofencing for monitoring the driving speed of the vehicle MV, the efficiency of geofencing determination processing can be expected to be improved.

[0096] Furthermore, the predetermined numerical conditions can be appropriately determined according to the implementation method. In one example, the predetermined numerical conditions can be constituted by the vehicle MV's travel speed 201 exceeding a threshold. That is, the determination of whether to execute a geofencing can include selecting to execute a geofencing when the vehicle MV's travel speed 201 exceeds the threshold, and selecting not to execute a geofencing when the vehicle MV's travel speed 201 is below the threshold. The threshold can be arbitrarily defined. The case where the travel speed 201 is equal to the threshold can also be included in either the case where the travel speed 201 exceeds the threshold or the case where the travel speed 201 is below the threshold. In one example, this numerical condition can be used in scenarios such as setting up geofencing within a school area to remind and suppress travel speeds exceeding 30 km / h. The output information such as the notified warning can be appropriately stored in memory resources (e.g., within the program). The output information can also be given from an external storage device. According to an example of this embodiment, regarding geofencing for monitoring travel at speeds exceeding the threshold, the efficiency of geofencing determination processing can be expected to be improved.

[0097] In another example, the predetermined numerical condition can be constituted by the vehicle MV's travel speed 201 being lower than a threshold. That is, the decision to perform geofencing can include selecting to perform geofencing when the vehicle MV's travel speed 201 is lower than the threshold, and selecting not to perform geofencing when the vehicle MV's travel speed 201 exceeds the threshold. Similarly, the threshold can be arbitrarily defined. The case where the travel speed 201 is equal to the threshold can also be included in either the case where the travel speed 201 is lower than the threshold or the case where the travel speed 201 exceeds the threshold. The travel speed 201 being lower than the threshold can include the vehicle MV stopping. In one example, this numerical condition can be used in scenarios where the output of advertising information is permitted when the travel speed is lower than the predetermined value, and the output of advertising information is prohibited when the travel speed exceeds the predetermined value, such as controlling whether to permit or prohibit the output of information based on the aforementioned travel speed. The output information, such as advertising information, can be appropriately stored in memory resources. The output information can also be provided from an external storage device. According to an example of this embodiment, regarding geofencing for monitoring travel at speeds below the threshold, the efficiency of geofencing decision processing can be expected to be improved.

[0098] (2) Driving mode

[0099] Figure 9An example of a determination execution condition (driving mode) in this embodiment is illustrated schematically. In one example, the geofence may be associated with the driving mode of the vehicle MV. As an example of vehicle information 20, the vehicle-mounted device 1 may obtain information representing the current driving mode 203 of the vehicle MV. That is, the current state of the vehicle MV represented by vehicle information 20 may include the current driving mode 203 of the vehicle MV. The determination execution condition may be that the driving mode of the vehicle MV meets a predetermined condition. Accordingly, the vehicle-mounted device 1 may choose whether to perform a geofence determination based on whether the obtained driving mode 203 meets the predetermined condition. If the driving mode 203 meets the predetermined condition, the vehicle-mounted device 1 may choose to perform a geofence determination. On the other hand, if the driving mode 203 does not meet the predetermined condition, the vehicle-mounted device 1 may choose not to perform a geofence determination.

[0100] Information indicating driving mode 203 can be obtained by any method. In one example, if it constitutes at least a part of the vehicle MV, the on-board device 1 can obtain information indicating driving mode 203 from its own memory resources. In another example, if it is connected to a computer of the vehicle MV, the on-board device 1 can obtain information indicating driving mode 203 from the computer (ECU, etc.) of the vehicle MV. According to an example of this embodiment, regarding geofencing for monitoring the driving mode of the vehicle MV, the efficiency of geofencing determination processing can be expected to be improved.

[0101] Furthermore, the driving mode (driving mode 203) can appropriately specify, for example, the driving mode of the vehicle (vehicle MV) such as driving using battery power or driving using fuel. The type of driving mode is not particularly limited and can be appropriately determined according to the implementation method, such as the type of vehicle. Correspondingly, the predetermined conditions can also be appropriately determined according to the implementation method. In one example, as described above, the vehicle MV can be a hybrid electric vehicle. The driving modes of a hybrid electric vehicle can include an electric vehicle mode and a hybrid electric vehicle mode. An electric vehicle mode can be a mode in which the vehicle is powered by the battery and driven solely by the electric motor. A hybrid electric vehicle mode can be a mode in which the vehicle is powered by both fuel and the battery and driven by both the engine and the electric motor. The geofencing can be associated with low-emission zones. The predetermined conditions for the driving mode can be determined by whether the current driving mode 203 of the vehicle MV is a mode other than the electric vehicle mode (hybrid electric vehicle mode, etc.). That is, the determination of whether to perform geofencing can include a determination to perform geofencing when the current driving mode 203 of the vehicle MV is a mode other than the electric vehicle mode, and a determination not to perform geofencing when the current driving mode 203 of the vehicle MV is the electric vehicle mode. Other modes besides electric vehicle mode can be, for example, hybrid vehicle mode (HV / HEV mode). In one example, this predetermined condition can be used in scenarios where a geofence is set in a low-emission zone to switch the vehicle's (MV) operating mode to electric vehicle mode or to output a notification indicating a switch to electric vehicle mode, thus urging the vehicle to operate in electric vehicle mode within the aforementioned low-emission zone. According to an example of this embodiment, regarding the geofence for monitoring the driving mode of a vehicle's (MV) in a low-emission zone, the efficiency of geofence determination processing can be expected to be improved.

[0102] (3) Recording modes of the dashcam

[0103] Figure 10An example of the determination execution condition (the recording mode of the dashcam) in this embodiment is illustrated schematically. In one example, the vehicle MV may be equipped with a dashcam (DR). The type of dashcam (DR) is not particularly limited as long as it can record the driving status of the vehicle MV (especially the external conditions of the vehicle MV), and can be appropriately selected according to the embodiment. For example, the dashcam (DR) may be an image recording device such as a video camera. The vehicle-mounted device 1 may be directly connected to the dashcam (DR), or indirectly connected via a network (Controller Area Network, etc.), the vehicle MV's computer, etc. A geofence may be associated with the recording mode of the dashcam (DR). As an example of vehicle information 20, the vehicle-mounted device 1 may obtain information indicating the current recording mode 205 of the dashcam (DR). That is, the current state of the vehicle MV indicated by vehicle information 20 may include the current recording mode 205 of the dashcam (DR). The determination execution condition may be that the recording mode of the dashcam (DR) meets a predetermined condition. Correspondingly, the vehicle-mounted device 1 can choose whether to perform a geofencing determination based on whether the acquired shooting mode 205 meets predetermined conditions. If the shooting mode 205 meets the predetermined conditions, the vehicle-mounted device 1 can choose to perform a geofencing determination. On the other hand, if the shooting mode 205 does not meet the predetermined conditions, the vehicle-mounted device 1 can choose not to perform a geofencing determination.

[0104] Information indicating the shooting mode 205 can be obtained by any method. In one example, if it constitutes at least a part of the vehicle MV or is directly connected to the dashcam DR, the vehicle-mounted device 1 can obtain information indicating the shooting mode 205 from its own memory resources. In another example, if it is connected to a computer of the vehicle MV or indirectly connected to the dashcam DR, the vehicle-mounted device 1 can obtain information indicating the shooting mode 205 from the structural elements of the vehicle MV (ECU, etc.). According to an example of this embodiment, regarding the geofencing for monitoring the shooting mode of the dashcam DR, the efficiency of geofencing determination processing can be expected to be improved.

[0105] Furthermore, the shooting mode (shooting mode 205) can appropriately define, for example, the operation mode of the dashcam (DR), such as continuous recording or stopping recording. The type of shooting mode can be appropriately determined according to the implementation method. Correspondingly, the predetermined conditions can also be appropriately determined according to the implementation method. In one example, the shooting mode of the dashcam DR may include a first mode of continuous recording (shooting mode on) and a second mode of stopping recording (shooting mode off). Geofencing can be related to prohibiting shooting by the dashcam DR. The predetermined conditions for the shooting mode can be constituted by the dashcam DR's current shooting mode 205 being on (first mode). That is, the determination of whether to execute geofencing may include a determination to execute geofencing when the dashcam DR's current shooting mode 205 is on and a determination not to execute geofencing when the dashcam DR's current shooting mode 205 is off (second mode). In one example, this predetermined condition can be used in a scenario where the dashcam DR's operation is controlled (shooting is prohibited) in the aforementioned prohibited shooting area. According to an example of this embodiment, regarding the geofencing for monitoring the shooting mode of a dashcam (DR) in a prohibited shooting area, the efficiency of geofencing determination and processing can be expected to be improved.

[0106] (Relationship with the conditions for execution of the action)

[0107] The decision execution conditions and action execution conditions can overlap. In one example, the decision items of the decision execution conditions and action execution conditions can also overlap at least partially. Since the conditions for overlapping decision items are the same, the decision execution conditions and action execution conditions can also overlap at least partially. Therefore, the same condition can be used repeatedly as both the decision execution condition and the action execution condition.

[0108] Furthermore, where conditions can be set that at least partially overlap between the decision execution condition and the action execution condition, the overlapping condition can be omitted from either the decision execution condition or the action execution condition. For example, the overlapping condition can be set as a decision execution condition, or it can be omitted from the action execution condition (i.e., it can be omitted from the action execution condition). As a specific example, the condition related to the aforementioned low emission zone (the vehicle MV's driving mode 203 is a mode other than electric vehicle mode) can be set as a decision execution condition, or it can be omitted from the action execution condition. Similarly, the condition related to the aforementioned recording mode (the dashcam DR's recording mode 205 is enabled) can be set as a decision execution condition, or it can be omitted from the action execution condition.

[0109] Furthermore, when overlapping decision items are set in the decision execution conditions and action execution conditions, the conditions (threshold conditions, etc.) for the decision items can be appropriately set according to the implementation method. The conditions for overlapping decision items can also be different between the decision execution conditions and action execution conditions. In this case, in one example, the decision execution conditions can be set to be easier to satisfy (easier to select for execution) than the action execution conditions for the overlapping decision items.

[0110] As a specific example, in the scenario described above where the action is performed when the driving speed exceeds a predetermined value, the threshold for determining the execution condition (first threshold) can be set to a value lower than the threshold for the action execution condition (second threshold). For example, in the school zone scenario described above, the threshold for the action execution condition can be set to a speed of 30 km / h, and the threshold for determining the execution condition can be set to a speed slower than 30 km / h (e.g., 20 km / h). Furthermore, as a specific example, in the scenario described above where the action is performed when the driving speed is lower than a predetermined value, the threshold for determining the execution condition (first threshold) can be set to a value greater than the threshold for the action execution condition (second threshold). For example, in the scenario described above where advertising information output is controlled, the threshold for determining the execution condition can be set to a speed faster than the threshold for the action execution condition.

[0111] The timing of determining the execution conditions can differ from the timing of determining the action execution conditions. The determination process for the execution conditions can be performed before the action execution conditions. When there is a significant discrepancy between the timing of determining the execution conditions and the timing of determining the action execution conditions, the state of the vehicle MV may change between the time of determining the execution conditions and the time of determining the action execution conditions. Due to this change in the vehicle MV's state, the following situation may occur: at the time of determining the execution conditions, the vehicle MV's state does not meet the action execution conditions, but at the time of determining the action execution conditions, the vehicle MV's state meets the action execution conditions. In such cases, although the vehicle MV's state meets the action execution conditions, the determination process for the action execution conditions is omitted, potentially leading to the omission of action execution. According to an example of this embodiment, by setting the execution conditions to be easier to satisfy than the action execution conditions, the situation where the determination process for the action execution conditions is omitted (thus omitting action execution) even though the vehicle MV's state meets the action execution conditions can be suppressed.

[0112] (other)

[0113] Furthermore, the decision execution conditions are not limited to the examples described above and can be appropriately set according to the implementation method. Decision execution conditions can be set for static information or for dynamic information such as the execution environment. Static information may include, for example, the vehicle MV category (model type) and user attributes. User attributes may include, for example, the user's age and gender. In another example, the decision execution conditions may include a hysteresis condition: specifying that after performing an internal / external decision, a predetermined insensitivity zone (hysteresis) is set, and the internal / external decision processing is not performed again until that distance is moved. Because the decision execution conditions include this hysteresis condition, it is possible to suppress frequent execution of decision processing near the boundaries of the geofence.

[0114] [Geofencing definition data]

[0115] As long as the geofence definition data 30 is structured in a way that defines a geofence (geometry and actions), its structure is not particularly limited and can be appropriately determined according to the implementation method. In one example, the geofence definition data 30 may be structured to include information on both the geometry and actions.

[0116] Figure 11 An example of the structure of the geofence definition data 30 of this embodiment is illustrated schematically. In one example, the geofence definition data 30 may include action data 303 defining actions within a geofence and body data 301 including identification information (action ID) of the action data 303. Since the body data 301 includes the identification information of the action data 303, the action data 303 is associated with the body data 301. If the number of geofences increases, the data volume of the geofence definition data 30 may increase. In this regard, in one example of this embodiment, the geofence definition data 30 is divided into body data 301 and action data 303. In other words, the action data 303 is separated from the body data 301. Thus, the action data 303 is configured in a reusable manner. That is, by associating the action data 303 with other body data, the same action defined by the action data 303 can also be set to other geofences. Therefore, according to an example of this embodiment, the overlap of data defining the same action can be suppressed, and thus, the data volume of the geofence definition data 30 can be reduced. Improving reuse rates can help reduce the amount of data.

[0117] In another example, the geofence definition data 30 may also include geometric structure data 305, which defines the geometry of the area where the geofence is defined. The main data 301 may also include identification information (geometric structure ID) of the geometric structure data 305. Since the main data 301 includes the identification information of the geometric structure data 305, the geometric structure data 305 is associated with the main data 301. In one example of this embodiment, similar to the action data 303, the geometric structure data 305 is also separated from the main data 301. Therefore, the geometric structure data 305 is also configured in a reusable manner. That is, by associating the geometric structure data 305 with other main data, the same area definition (geometric structure) based on the geometric structure data 305 can be applied to other geofences. Therefore, according to one example of this embodiment, when multiple geofences are set in the same area, the overlap of data for the same area definition can be suppressed. Therefore, regarding the geofence definition data 30, a reduction in data volume can be achieved.

[0118] (Main Data)

[0119] The subject data 301 can be appropriately structured to represent a geofence. In one example, the subject data 301 can be structured to represent the definition of a geofence together with the associated action data 303 and geometric structure data 305, by including identification information (action ID, geometric structure ID) of action data 303 and geometric structure data 305. Figure 11 As shown, in one example of this embodiment, the main data 301 may have fields storing various information such as main data ID, action ID, geometric structure ID, description information, judgment execution conditions, validity period, and management information. The order of the fields is not particularly restricted and can be appropriately changed according to the implementation method. In one example, one piece of main data 301 may correspond to one geofence.

[0120] The subject ID can be used to identify geofences. The subject ID is an example of the identification information in subject data 301. The data format of the identification information (subject ID) is not particularly limited and can be appropriately determined according to the implementation method. The value of the subject ID can be given based on the time when the geofence was registered by creating subject data 301. The time can include year, month, and day. The object unit of the time can be arbitrarily chosen. Thus, the subject ID can be configured to determine the registration order based on its value.

[0121] Action IDs are used to identify actions applied to a geofence (action data 303). An action ID is an example of the identification information in action data 303. The data format of the action identification information (action ID) is not particularly limited and can be appropriately determined depending on the implementation method. Figure 11 As shown, in one example of this embodiment, since the main data 301 includes an action ID, the action data 303 identified by the action ID can be associated with the main data 301.

[0122] The geometric structure ID is used to identify the geometry applied to a geofence (geometric structure data 305). The geometric structure ID is an example of the identification information in geometric structure data 305. The data format of the geometric structure identification information (geometric structure ID) is not particularly limited and can be appropriately determined according to the implementation method. For example... Figure 11 As shown, in one example of this embodiment, since the main data 301 includes a geometric structure ID, the geometric structure data 305 identified by the geometric structure ID can be associated with the main data 301.

[0123] Here, as mentioned above, in one example, the area of ​​a geofence can be defined by either one geometry or multiple geometries. Figures 5-7 Correspondingly, the identification information including geometric structure data 305 can be composed of identification information including the geometric structure data 305 of one or more geometric structures. In the case of including the identification information of the geometric structure data 305 of multiple geometric structures, the main data 301 may also include logical operators for merging multiple geometric structures.

[0124] exist Figure 11 In one example, more than one geometry ID can be stored in the geometry ID field of the main data 301. This allows more than one geometry data 305 to be associated with the main data 301. Since the main data 301 includes multiple geometry IDs, multiple geometries can be associated with the main data 301 for delineating the defined geofence area. Additionally, the main data 301 may also have a field for storing logical operators. When the main data 301 includes multiple geometry IDs, this field can store the logical operators used when merging geometries corresponding to each geometry ID. Therefore, the main data 301 can include logical operators for merging associated geometries.

[0125] According to one example of this embodiment, multiple geometric structure data 305 (multiple geometric structures) can be used to delineate geofencing areas. This further improves the reusability of the geometric structure data 305, thus allowing for a further reduction in data volume. Furthermore, not only can simple region definitions based on a single geometric structure be generated, but complex region definitions can also be easily generated through combinations of multiple geometric structures.

[0126] Furthermore, in one example, such as Figure 11 As shown, when merging multiple geometries is allowed, the main data 301 may also include a field storing a merged graphic formed by merging multiple geometries using logical operators. Therefore, when including the geometry IDs of the geometry data 305 for each of the multiple geometries, the main data 301 may also include a merged graphic formed by merging the multiple geometries. The merged graphic can be used for any purpose, such as distance calculation. According to an example of this embodiment, since the main data 301 includes the merged graphic, the operation of merging geometries is no longer performed every time a geofence is used. Therefore, improved processing efficiency can be expected.

[0127] The depiction information is used to depict geofences on a map. In one example of this embodiment, since the main data 301 has a field for storing this depiction information, it may also include depiction information for depicting geofences on a map in the vehicle-mounted device 1. As described above, in the vehicle-mounted device 1, the map can be used for any purpose, such as displaying a specified area or location, or providing route guidance. Map data can be used for map depiction. The depiction information may include any information for depicting geofences on a map. For example, the depiction information may include information such as representative location (coordinates, etc.), name, and depiction attributes. The depiction attributes may include the geofence's display being turned on / off, coloring, border color, transparency, icon attributes, etc. The icon attributes may include the icon's display being turned on / off, content information (the destination where the icon image is stored, etc.), etc. The representative location may be used as the location where the icon is displayed. According to an example of this embodiment, the geometric structure data 305, which defines the geometric structure, is separated from the main data 301, while the depiction information is retained in the main data 301. Therefore, in the vehicle-mounted device 1, even without referring to the geometric structure data 305, a geofence can be drawn by referring to the depiction information of the main data 301. As a result, the efficiency of geofence drawing processing can be expected to be improved.

[0128] The decision execution conditions, as described above, are used to determine whether to perform geofencing. In one example of this embodiment, since the main data 301 includes a field for storing these decision execution conditions, it may also include decision execution conditions for determining whether to perform geofencing. According to an example of this embodiment, even without referring to the action data 303 (and the geometry data 305), it is possible to determine whether to perform geofencing by referring to the decision execution conditions of the main data 301. Therefore, the efficiency of geofencing decision processing can be expected to be improved.

[0129] The validity period indicates the duration for which the geofence defined by the geofence definition data 30 is valid. In one example of this embodiment, since the body data 301 includes a field for storing this validity period, it may also include the geofence's validity period. According to an example of this embodiment, the period for which the geofence is applied can be specified by including the validity period in the body data 301. Furthermore, even without referring to the action data 303 and the geometry data 305, it is possible to determine whether the geofence is valid by referring to the validity period of the body data 301. Thus, the efficiency of the process for verifying the validity of the geofence can be expected to be improved.

[0130] Management information may include any information used to utilize the subject data 301. In one example, management information may include creation time, update time, etc. The time may also include year, month, and day. The object unit of the time can be arbitrarily selected. The creation time may represent the time when the subject data 301 was created. The update time may represent the time when the geofence definition data 30 was updated. In one example, the update time may be configured to represent the time when at least one of the subject data 301, the associated action data 303, and the associated geometry data 305 was updated. Thus, in one example of this embodiment, the subject data 301 may also include an overall update time representing the time when at least one of the subject data 301, action data 303, and geometry data 305 was updated. According to an example of this embodiment, by aggregating the update times into the subject data 301, it is possible to determine whether at least one of the subject data 301, action data 303, and geometry data 305 has been updated, even without referring to the action data 303 and geometry data 305, simply by referring to the subject data 301. Therefore, the process of determining whether the geofence definition data 30 has been updated can be expected to be more efficient. However, the update time included in the main data 301 is not limited to this example and can be appropriately changed according to the implementation. In another example, the update time may also be configured to indicate the time when the action data 303 and the geometry data 305 were updated, but rather the time when the main data 301 was updated. In yet another example, the main data 301 may also independently include the overall update time and the individual update time of the main data 301.

[0131] Furthermore, regarding the specific structure of the main data 301, according to the implementation method, structural elements can be appropriately omitted, replaced, and added. For example, at least one of logical operators, merged graphics, depiction information, decision execution conditions, validity period, and management information can be omitted. The depiction information, decision execution conditions, and validity period can also be retained in at least one of the action data 303 and geometric structure data 305. At least one of the creation time and update time can also be retained independently of the management information. In the management information, at least one of the creation time and update time can also be omitted. The management information may also include other information besides the creation time and update time (e.g., creator, updater, deletion time, deleter, etc.). The main data 301 may also include other information such as the action classification, whether it is public, and the category of the vehicle device 1 that provides geofence definition data.

[0132] (Action data)

[0133] Action data 303, because it includes definition information of the action, can be appropriately structured in a manner that represents the defined action. For example... Figure 11 As shown, in one example of this embodiment, action data 303 may have fields for storing various information such as action ID, action execution conditions, action content, and management information. The order of the fields is not particularly restricted and can be appropriately changed according to the implementation method. In one example, one piece of action data 303 may correspond to the definition of one action.

[0134] The Action ID is used to identify Action Data 303. The Action Execution Conditions specify the conditions under which the action is executed. The Action Content specifies the content of the action being performed. The Action Execution Conditions and Action Content can be defined separately as described above. The Action Execution Conditions and Action Content are examples of action definition information. Management information can include any information used to utilize Action Data 303. The management information for Action Data 303 can be structured similarly to the management information for Subject Data 301, except that the object is replaced by Action Data 303 from Subject Data 301. In one example, management information may include creation time, update time, etc. Creation time can indicate the time when Action Data 303 was created. Update time can indicate the time when Action Data 303 was updated.

[0135] Furthermore, regarding the specific structure of action data 303, depending on the implementation method, structural elements can be appropriately omitted, replaced, or added. For example, management information can also be omitted. At least one of the creation time and update time can also be maintained independently of the management information. In the management information, at least one of the creation time and update time can also be omitted. The management information may also include other information besides the creation time and update time (e.g., creator, updater, deletion time, deleter, etc.). Action data 303 may also include other information such as the action's category and name.

[0136] (Geometric structure data)

[0137] Geometric structure data 305, because it includes definition information about the geometric structure (information about the defined region), can be appropriately constructed in a way that represents the defined geometric structure. For example... Figure 11 As shown, in one example of this embodiment, the geometric structure data 305 may have fields for storing various information such as geometric structure ID, geometric structure (definition information), and management information. The order of the fields is not particularly restricted and can be appropriately changed according to the implementation method. In one example, one geometric structure data 305 may correspond to one geometric structure definition.

[0138] The geometry ID is used to identify geometry data 305. The geometry (definition information) delineates the area of ​​a geofence. In one example, the geometry can be defined by a circle (…). Figure 2 ), polygons ( Figure 3 ), road section ( Figure 4 The management information can be defined using the methods described above. Management information may include any information used to apply geometric structure data 305. Except for the object replacement aspect, the management information for geometric structure data 305 can be structured similarly to the management information for main data 301. In one example, management information may include creation time, update time, etc. Creation time may indicate the time when geometric structure data 305 was created. Update time may indicate the time when geometric structure data 305 was updated.

[0139] Furthermore, regarding the specific structure of the geometric structure data 305, depending on the implementation method, structural elements can be appropriately omitted, replaced, or added. For example, management information can also be omitted. At least one of the creation time and update time can also be maintained independently of the management information. In the management information, at least one of the creation time and update time can also be omitted. The management information may also include other information besides the creation time and update time (e.g., creator, updater, deletion time, deleter, etc.). The geometric structure data 305 may also include other information such as the action category and name.

[0140] (An example of the reference order when determining internal and external factors)

[0141] In the vehicle-mounted device 1, when performing the geofence determination process, the fields of the geofence definition data 30 (main data 301, action data 303, and geometric structure data 305) can be appropriately referenced.

[0142] As an example, in the first step, the vehicle-mounted device 1 can determine whether the determination execution conditions of the main data 301 are met. In one example of this embodiment, the determination execution condition field of the main data 301 can specify conditions related to the state of the vehicle MV. Thus, the vehicle-mounted device 1 can determine whether the determination execution conditions are met (i.e., whether to perform geofencing determination processing) based on the obtained vehicle information 20 (the current state of the vehicle MV).

[0143] In the second step, regarding the geofence determined to meet the determination execution conditions, the vehicle-mounted device 1 can access the geometric structure data 305 associated with the main data 301 by referring to the geometric structure ID (identification information) of the main data 301. The vehicle-mounted device 1 can refer to the geometry of the geometric structure data 305 to determine whether the current location 25 is inside or outside the area defined by the geometry. In one example of this embodiment, this determination process corresponds to the determination of the geofence (inside / outside determination). When the geofence determination process is continuously executed, the geofence determination may also include determining the migration state of the vehicle MV relative to the geofence.

[0144] In one example, when multiple geometric structure data 305 are associated with main data 301, the vehicle-mounted device 1 can also determine the geofence area by merging the individual geometric structures of the multiple geometric structure data 305 using logical operators of the main data 301. Alternatively, in another example, if the information of the area demarcated after merging multiple geometric structures is stored as a merged graph in the main data 301, the vehicle-mounted device 1 can omit accessing the geometric structure data 305. That is, the vehicle-mounted device 1 can also determine the merged area by referring to the merged graph of the main data 301. Then, the vehicle-mounted device 1 can determine whether the current position 25 is inside or outside the determined area.

[0145] In the third step, the vehicle-mounted device 1 can access the action data 303 associated with the main data 301 by referring to the action ID (identification information) of the main data 301. Then, the vehicle-mounted device 1 can determine whether the action execution conditions of the action data 303 are met. In the fourth step, regarding the geofence that has been determined to meet the action execution conditions, the vehicle-mounted device 1 can execute the action specified by the action content of the action data 303.

[0146] (Geofencing defines the path to obtain data)

[0147] The vehicle-mounted device 1 can appropriately obtain geofence definition data 30 for each geofence. In one example, the geofence definition data 30 can also be pre-loaded into the memory resources of the vehicle-mounted device 1. In another example, the vehicle-mounted device 1 can appropriately obtain the geofence definition data 30 from an external storage device such as a server. For example, the vehicle-mounted device 1 can obtain the stored geofence definition data 30 from an external storage device. Alternatively, for example, the geofence definition data can also be stored in a database. The server can be configured to access the database. The database can be stored either in the server's memory resources or on an external storage device accessible to the server. The vehicle-mounted device 1 can notify the server of its current location and request geofence definition data 30. The server can extract geofences existing within a predetermined distance from the current location. The predetermined distance can be arbitrarily defined. The server can provide the extracted geofence definition data 30 to the vehicle-mounted device 1. Thus, the vehicle-mounted device can also obtain the geofence definition data 30.

[0148] (other)

[0149] Furthermore, the data format of the geofence definition data 30 is not particularly limited and can be appropriately selected according to the implementation method. In addition, the data structure of the geofence definition data 30 (main data 301, action data 303, and geometric structure data 305) can be appropriately modified according to the implementation method.

[0150] For example, in Figure 11 In one example, action data 303 and geometry data 305 are separated from the main data 301. However, the structure of geofencing definition data 30 is not limited to this example. In another example, only one of action data 303 and geometry data 305 may be separated from the main data 301, while the other is included (or incorporated into) the main data 301. For example, only action data 303 may be separated from the main data 301, while geometry data 305 is included in the main data 301. Alternatively, only geometry data 305 may be separated from the main data 301, while action data 303 is included in the main data 301. In yet another example, without ensuring the reusability of action and geometry, action data 303 and geometry data 305 may also be included together in the main data 301.

[0151] Furthermore, the vehicle-mounted device 1 can be configured to perform the determination process for each geofence by maintaining geofence definition data 30 for each of the multiple geofences. In one example of this embodiment, if one or more geofences are included to determine the satisfaction of the determination execution condition (i.e., whether to perform the determination) based on vehicle information 20, the multiple geofences may also include at least one of geofences that determine the satisfaction of the determination execution condition based on information other than vehicle information 20 and geofences that omit the determination of the determination execution condition. The geofence definition data 30 maintained in the vehicle-mounted device 1 may include geofence definition data for such geofences. In addition, in the geofences that determine the satisfaction of the determination execution condition based on vehicle information 20, actions related to the state of the vehicle MV (described above) can be set. Figures 8-10 Examples, etc.). The decision execution conditions corresponding to vehicle information 20 can be specified in accordance with the actions set on the geofence.

[0152] [2 Structural Examples]

[0153] [Hardware Structure Example]

[0154] Figure 12 An example of the hardware structure of the vehicle-mounted device 1 according to this embodiment is shown schematically. In one example, the vehicle-mounted device 1 according to this embodiment can be configured as a computer electrically connected to a control unit 11, a storage unit 12, an external interface 13, an input device 14, an output device 15, and a positioning module 16.

[0155] The control unit 11 may include a CPU (Random Access Memory), ROM (Read Only Memory), etc., which are configured as hardware processors to perform information processing based on programs and various data. The control unit 11 (CPU) is an example of processor resources.

[0156] Storage unit 12 may include, for example, a hard disk drive, a solid-state drive, a semiconductor memory, etc., configured to hold arbitrary data. Storage unit 12, RAM, and ROM are examples of the memory resources of the vehicle device 1. In one example, storage unit 12 may store various information such as program 81 and geofence definition data 30.

[0157] Program 81 is used to enable the vehicle-mounted device 1 to perform information processing related to geofencing determination (described later). Figure 14 The program 81 includes a series of instructions for information processing. Program 81 is an example of a program disclosed herein.

[0158] In one example, at least one of program 81 and geofence definition data 30 may be stored in storage medium 91 instead of storage unit 12, or stored in storage medium 91 while simultaneously stored in storage unit 12. Storage medium 91 is configured to store information (such as stored programs) through electrical, magnetic, optical, mechanical, or chemical means in a manner that allows a machine such as a computer to read various types of information. Storage unit 12 and storage medium 91 are examples of non-transitory storage media. Vehicle device 1 can obtain at least one of program 81 and geofence definition data 30 from storage medium 91. Storage medium 91 can be a disk-type storage medium (CD, DVD, etc.) or a storage medium other than a disk-type storage medium, such as semiconductor memory (flash memory, etc.). Any drive device can be used to read information stored in storage medium 91. The type of drive device can be selected based on storage medium 91. The drive device can be connected to vehicle device 1 by any method (e.g., via external interface 13). Storage medium 91 may include an external storage device.

[0159] External interface 13 is configured to connect to external devices via wired or wireless means. External interface 13 may be, for example, a USB (Universal Serial Bus) port, a communication port (communication module), a dedicated port, etc. The type and number of external interfaces 13 can be appropriately determined according to the implementation method. The communication standard of the communication port (communication module) can be arbitrarily selected. For example, the communication standard can be appropriately selected from the Internet, wireless communication network, mobile communication network, telephone network, dedicated network, etc. The dedicated network may include a Controller Area Network (CAN). In one example, vehicle device 1 can be connected to vehicle MV via external interface 13.

[0160] Input device 14 is configured to receive information input. Input device 14 may be configured as a touch panel, operating device, etc. Output device 15 is configured to output information. Output device 15 may be configured as a display, speaker, etc. The user can operate vehicle device 1 by using input device 14 and output device 15. Input device 14 and output device 15 may not be directly connected to vehicle device 1, or they may be indirectly connected via external interface 13. Input device 14 and output device 15 may also be integrated at least in part via touch panel display, etc.

[0161] The positioning module 16 is configured to determine location. The type of positioning module 16 is not particularly limited as long as it can determine location, and can be appropriately selected depending on the implementation. For example, the positioning module 16 can be composed of a GPS (Global Positioning System) sensor, a GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) sensor, etc. Alternatively, for example, the positioning module 16 can be configured to estimate the distance to each base station (wireless access point) based on the signal strength received from each base station. The positioning module 16 can be configured to determine location using any method (three-point measurement, etc.) based on the estimated distance to each base station. In this case, the positioning module 16 can also be at least partially shared with the external interface 13 (communication module). In one example, the positioning module 16 can be composed of a control unit 11 (CPU) and a communication module. The type of base station can be appropriately selected depending on the implementation. Furthermore, the positioning module 16 may not be built into the vehicle-mounted device 1, or it may be connected to the vehicle-mounted device 1 via the external interface 13.

[0162] Furthermore, regarding the specific hardware structure of the vehicle-mounted device 1, depending on the implementation, structural elements can be appropriately omitted, replaced, or added. For example, the control unit 11 may include multiple hardware processors. The hardware processors may be composed of microprocessors, FPGAs (field-programmable gate arrays), DSPs (digital signal processors), ECUs, GPUs (graphics processing units), ASICs (application-specific integrated circuits), etc. At least one of the input device 14 and the output device 15 may also be omitted. At least one of the program 81 and the geofence definition data 30 may also be stored in an external storage device such as a NAS. An external storage device is also an example of a non-transitory storage medium. The vehicle-mounted device 1 may be composed of multiple computers. In this case, the hardware structures of each computer may be identical or different. Besides being a computer designed specifically for providing services, the vehicle-mounted device 1 may also be a terminal device, etc. The terminal device may include user terminals such as smartphones and tablets.

[0163] [Software Structure]

[0164] Figure 13An example of the software structure of the vehicle-mounted device 1 according to this embodiment is schematically shown. The control unit 11 of the vehicle-mounted device 1 executes instructions included in the program 81 stored in the storage unit 12 via the CPU. Thus, the vehicle-mounted device 1 operates as a computer having a first acquisition unit 111, a selection unit 112, a second acquisition unit 113, a determination unit 114, and an output processing unit 115 as software modules. That is, in this embodiment, each software module of the vehicle-mounted device 1 is implemented by the control unit 11 (CPU).

[0165] The first acquisition unit 111 is configured to acquire vehicle information 20 representing the current state of the vehicle MV. The selection unit 112 is configured to select whether to perform a geofencing determination based on the acquired vehicle information 20. The second acquisition unit 113 is configured to acquire the current position 25 determined by the positioning module 16 if the selection unit 112 selects to perform a geofencing determination. The determination unit 114 is configured to perform a geofencing determination based on the acquired current position 25 if the selection unit 112 selects to perform a geofencing determination. The output processing unit 115 is configured to output information 40 related to the determination result if the selection unit 112 selects to perform a geofencing determination. If the selection unit 112 selects not to perform a geofencing determination, the execution of the geofencing determination is omitted.

[0166] Furthermore, in this embodiment, an example is described where each software module of the vehicle-mounted device 1 is implemented using a general-purpose CPU. However, some or all of the aforementioned software modules may also be implemented using one or more dedicated processors or chipsets. The aforementioned modules may also be implemented as hardware modules. Regarding the software structure of the vehicle-mounted device 1, depending on the embodiment, modules may be omitted, replaced, or added as appropriate.

[0167] [3 Examples of Actions]

[0168] Figure 14 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the processing sequence related to the determination of geofencing in this embodiment. The following processing sequence is an example of an information processing method executed by a computer (vehicle-mounted device 1). However, the following processing sequence is merely an example, and each step can be modified as much as possible. Furthermore, regarding the following processing sequence, depending on the embodiment, steps can be omitted, substituted, or added as appropriate.

[0169] (Step S101)

[0170] In step S101, the control unit 11 operates as the first acquisition unit 111 to acquire vehicle information 20 indicating the current state of the vehicle MV.

[0171] The type of vehicle information 20 obtained can be appropriately selected based on implementation methods such as the conditions for determining whether to perform geofencing. In one example, when a geofencing related to the vehicle MV's driving speed is provided, the control unit 11 can obtain the driving speed 201. In another example, when a geofencing related to the vehicle MV's driving mode is provided, the control unit 11 can obtain information indicating the current driving mode 203. In yet another example, when a geofencing related to the dashcam DR's recording mode is provided, the control unit 11 can obtain information indicating the dashcam DR's current recording mode 205. After obtaining the vehicle information 20, the control unit 11 proceeds the processing to the next step S102.

[0172] (Step S102)

[0173] In step S102, the control unit 11 acts as the selection unit 112, and selects whether to perform a geofencing determination based on the obtained vehicle information 20.

[0174] The control unit 11 can appropriately select whether to perform the geofencing determination based on the given determination execution conditions. In one example, the determination execution condition may be that the vehicle MV's travel speed 201 exceeds a threshold. In this case, the control unit 11 can choose to perform the geofencing determination based on the vehicle MV's travel speed 201 exceeding the threshold. Alternatively, the control unit 11 can choose not to perform the geofencing determination based on the vehicle MV's travel speed 201 being below the threshold.

[0175] Alternatively, in one example, a condition could be specified that the vehicle MV's speed 201 is below a threshold. In this case, the control unit 11 can choose to execute the geofencing determination based on the vehicle MV's speed 201 being below the threshold. The control unit 11 can also choose not to execute the geofencing determination based on the vehicle MV's speed 201 exceeding the threshold.

[0176] In another example, the vehicle MV can be a hybrid vehicle, or the determination execution condition can be given that the current driving mode 203 of the vehicle MV is a mode other than electric vehicle mode. In this case, the control unit 11 can choose to perform the geofencing determination based on whether the current driving mode 203 of the vehicle MV is a mode other than electric vehicle mode (hybrid vehicle mode, etc.). The control unit 11 can choose not to perform the geofencing determination based on whether the current driving mode 203 of the vehicle MV is electric vehicle mode.

[0177] Alternatively, in one example, the conditions for determining whether the current recording mode 205 of the dashcam DR is enabled can be specified. In this case, the control unit 11 can choose to perform the geofencing determination based on whether the current recording mode 205 of the dashcam DR is enabled. The control unit 11 can choose not to perform the geofencing determination based on whether the current recording mode 205 of the dashcam DR is disabled.

[0178] In one example, when the geofencing definition data 30 consists of subject data 301, action data 303, and geometric structure data 305, the processing in step S102 can be performed by the first step of the reference sequence during the aforementioned internal / external determination. After selecting whether to perform the geofencing determination, the control unit 11 advances the processing to the next step, S103.

[0179] (Step S103)

[0180] In step S103, the control unit 11 operates as a selection unit 112, determining the branch destination for processing based on the selection result of step S102. Regarding geofences selected for execution of the decision, the control unit 11 advances the processing to the next step S104. Conversely, regarding geofences selected for non-execution of the decision, the control unit 11 omits steps S104 to S106 and advances the processing to step S107. That is, if none of the geofences meet the decision execution conditions, the control unit 11 omits steps S104 to S106 and advances the processing to step S107. If at least some geofences meet the decision execution conditions, the control unit 11 advances the processing to the next step S104, and for the geofences that meet the decision execution conditions, the processing after step S104 is executed. Thus, in the case where a geofence is selected not to be executed, the control unit 11 omits the execution of the decision for that geofence (step S105). Furthermore, in one example, geofences for which no decision execution conditions are set may also be provided. Regarding the geofence, the control unit 11 may also omit the processing steps S101 to S103 and proceed to step S104.

[0181] (Step S104)

[0182] In step S104, the control unit 11 operates as the second acquisition unit 113 to acquire the current position 25 determined by the positioning module 16. After acquiring the current position 25, the control unit 11 advances the process to the next step S105.

[0183] Furthermore, the timing of executing step S104 is not limited to this example and can be appropriately changed depending on the implementation. In another example, the control unit 11 may execute step S104 regardless of whether a geofencing determination is performed. The control unit 11 may also periodically execute step S104, which obtains the current location 25, regardless of the processing of steps S101 to S103. The processing of step S104 can be executed at any time before the next step S105. The processing of step S104 may also be executed before step S102 or step S101.

[0184] (Step S105)

[0185] In step S105, the control unit 11 operates as a determination unit 114, performing a geofence determination based on the acquired current position 25. That is, the control unit 11 determines whether the acquired current position 25 is inside or outside the geofence defined by the maintained geofence definition data 30.

[0186] In one example, during this determination process, the control unit 11 can generate a determination result configured to indicate whether the location is inside or outside the defined geofence. Additionally, in another example, for at least a portion of the geofence, due to continuous execution of inside / outside determinations, a previous determination result may exist. If a previous determination result exists, the control unit 11 can also generate a determination result configured to indicate whether the location is outside the geofence, has entered from outside the geofence, remains inside the geofence, or has exited from inside the geofence.

[0187] In one example, if the geofence definition data 30 consists of subject data 301, action data 303, and geometric structure data 305, the processing in step S105 can be performed by the second step of the above-mentioned internal / external determination process, following the reference order. Regarding the geofence whose determination process is complete, the control unit 11 advances the processing to the next step, S106.

[0188] (Step S106)

[0189] In step S106, the control unit 11 operates as the output processing unit 115 and outputs information 40 related to the result of the geofence determination.

[0190] The output destination and the content of the output information 40 can be appropriately selected according to the implementation method. In one example, the control unit 11 can output the above determination result as is. The output destination can be, for example, RAM, storage unit 12, output device 15, other computer (including external storage device), etc. For example, the control unit 11 can save the determination result of this time to the memory resource for use in the next internal and external determination.

[0191] In another example, the control unit 11 can determine whether the action execution conditions of the geofence are met based on the geofence determination result. Regarding a geofence determined to meet the action execution conditions, the control unit 11 can execute the action specified by the action content. The information 40 outputting the geofence determination result can include determining whether the action execution conditions are met and executing the action set on the geofence that meets the action execution conditions. The executed action can include controlling the vehicle MV's actions, such as issuing warnings, controlling the output permission of advertising information, controlling driving modes, controlling shooting modes, etc. When the executed action includes the output of information such as warnings or advertising information, the information 40 related to the determination result can include the information output through that action. In one example, when the geofence definition data 30 consists of main data 301, action data 303, and geometric structure data 305, the processing related to the execution of the action can consist of the third and fourth steps of the reference order during the internal and external determination. When an output device other than the output device 15 is installed on the vehicle MV, the output destination of the information 40 can also include other output devices. Once the output of information 40 is complete, the control unit 11 advances the processing to the next step S107.

[0192] (Step S107)

[0193] In step S107, the control unit 11 determines whether to terminate the process. The determination criteria can be set arbitrarily. In one example, the control unit 11 may determine that the process should not be terminated until an end instruction is given. On the other hand, when an end instruction is given, the control unit 11 may determine that the process should be terminated. The end instruction can be given by any method, such as application termination / interruption, device shutdown, etc.

[0194] If the process is determined not to terminate, the control unit 11 returns the process to step S101 and resumes processing from step S101. Thus, the control unit 11 can continuously perform inside / outside determination regarding the geofence defined by the maintained geofence definition data 30. On the other hand, if the process is determined to terminate, the control unit 11 terminates the processing sequence related to the geofence inside / outside determination in this action example. Furthermore, the timing of terminating the process is not limited to this example. The control unit 11 can terminate the processing sequence related to the geofence inside / outside determination at any timing. Additionally, in one example, the control unit 11 can execute a series of processes from steps S101 to S107 in real time.

[0195] [feature]

[0196] In this embodiment, the vehicle-mounted device 1 controls whether to perform geofencing determination processing based on the current state of the vehicle MV (vehicle information 20) through steps S102 and S103. Therefore, in scenarios where it can be determined from the state of the vehicle MV that geofencing determination is unnecessary, the execution of geofencing determination based on step S105 can be omitted. Thus, according to this embodiment, wasteful determination processing can be suppressed, and the efficiency of geofencing determination processing can be expected to be improved.

[0197] [4. Variations]

[0198] The embodiments of this disclosure have been described in detail above, but the descriptions up to the foregoing are merely examples of this disclosure in all respects. The processes and units described in this disclosure can be freely combined and implemented as long as they do not create technical contradictions. Furthermore, various improvements or modifications can be appropriately made to the above embodiments.

[0199] [5 Supplementary]

[0200] The processes and units described in this disclosure can be freely combined and implemented as long as they do not create technical contradictions.

[0201] Furthermore, a process described as being performed by one device can also be executed by multiple devices. Alternatively, a process described as being performed by different devices can also be executed by one device. In a computer system, it is possible to flexibly change the hardware architecture used to implement various functions.

[0202] This disclosure can also be implemented by supplying a computer program with the functions described in the above embodiments to a computer, which has one or more processors to read and execute the program. Such a computer program can be provided to the computer either through a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium that can be connected to the computer's system bus, or via a network. Non-transitory computer-readable storage media may include, for example, any type of disk, read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), EPROM, EEPROM, magnetic card, flash memory, optical card, semiconductor driver, or any type of medium suitable for storing electronic instructions. Disks may include, for example, magnetic disks, optical disks, etc. Magnetic disks may include, for example, hard disk drives (HDDs). Optical disks may include, for example, CD-ROMs, DVDs, Blu-ray discs, etc. Semiconductor drivers may include, for example, solid-state drives.

Claims

1. A program for causing an on-board device to perform an information processing method, wherein, The information processing method includes: Obtain vehicle information indicating the current state of the vehicle; The determination of whether to implement geofencing is made based on the obtained vehicle information; If the geofencing determination is selected, the current location determined by the positioning module is obtained, the geofencing determination is performed based on the obtained current location, and information related to the determination result is output; and If the decision not to perform the geofencing determination is selected, the execution of the geofencing determination is omitted.

2. The procedure according to claim 1, wherein, The current state of the vehicle, as indicated by the vehicle information, includes the vehicle's speed. The decision on whether to implement the geofencing includes: If the vehicle's speed exceeds a threshold, the geofencing determination is performed; and If the vehicle's speed is below a threshold, the decision not to perform the geofencing is made.

3. The procedure according to claim 1, wherein, The current state of the vehicle, as indicated by the vehicle information, includes the vehicle's speed. The decision on whether to implement the geofencing includes: If the vehicle's speed is below a threshold, the geofencing determination is performed; and If the vehicle's speed exceeds a threshold, the decision not to perform the geofencing is selected.

4. The procedure according to claim 1, wherein, The current state of the vehicle, as indicated by the vehicle information, includes the vehicle's current driving mode.

5. The procedure according to claim 4, wherein, The vehicle in question is a hybrid electric vehicle. The driving modes of the hybrid vehicle include electric vehicle mode and hybrid vehicle mode. The geofence is associated with low-emission zones. The decision on whether to implement the geofencing includes: If the vehicle's current driving mode is hybrid vehicle mode, then the geofencing determination is performed; and If the vehicle's current driving mode is electric vehicle mode, the decision not to perform the geofencing is selected.

6. The procedure according to claim 1, wherein, The vehicle is equipped with a dashcam. The current state of the vehicle, as indicated by the vehicle information, includes the current recording mode of the dashcam. The geofence is associated with prohibiting photography. The decision on whether to implement the geofencing includes: If the dashcam's current recording mode is enabled, select to perform the geofence determination; and If the current recording mode of the dashcam is off, the decision not to perform the geofencing is selected.

7. A vehicle-mounted device comprising a control unit, the control unit being configured to perform the following steps: Obtain vehicle information indicating the current state of the vehicle; The determination of whether to implement geofencing is made based on the obtained vehicle information; If the decision to perform the geofencing is selected, the current position determined by the positioning module is obtained, the geofencing decision is performed based on the obtained current position, and information related to the result of the decision is output. as well as If the decision not to perform the geofencing determination is selected, the execution of the geofencing determination is omitted.

8. The vehicle-mounted device according to claim 7, wherein, The current state of the vehicle, as indicated by the vehicle information, includes the vehicle's speed. The decision on whether to implement the geofencing includes: If the vehicle's speed exceeds a threshold, the geofencing determination is performed; and If the vehicle's speed is below a threshold, the decision not to perform the geofencing is made.

9. The vehicle-mounted device according to claim 7, wherein, The current state of the vehicle, as indicated by the vehicle information, includes the vehicle's speed. The decision on whether to implement the geofencing includes: If the vehicle's speed is below a threshold, the geofencing determination is performed; and If the vehicle's speed exceeds a threshold, the decision not to perform the geofencing is selected.

10. The vehicle-mounted device according to claim 7, wherein, The current state of the vehicle, as indicated by the vehicle information, includes the vehicle's current driving mode.

11. The vehicle-mounted device according to claim 10, wherein, The vehicle in question is a hybrid electric vehicle. The driving modes of the hybrid vehicle include electric vehicle mode and hybrid vehicle mode. The geofence is associated with low-emission zones. The decision on whether to implement the geofencing includes: If the vehicle's current driving mode is hybrid vehicle mode, then the geofencing determination is performed; and If the vehicle's current driving mode is electric vehicle mode, the decision not to perform the geofencing is selected.

12. The vehicle-mounted device according to claim 7, wherein, The vehicle is equipped with a dashcam. The current state of the vehicle, as indicated by the vehicle information, includes the current recording mode of the dashcam. The geofence is associated with prohibiting photography. The decision on whether to implement the geofencing includes: If the dashcam's current recording mode is enabled, select to perform the geofence determination; and If the current recording mode of the dashcam is off, the decision not to perform the geofencing is selected.

13. An information processing method, executed by a computer, the information processing method comprising: Obtain vehicle information indicating the current state of the vehicle; The determination of whether to implement geofencing is made based on the obtained vehicle information; If the decision to perform the geofencing is selected, the current position determined by the positioning module is obtained, the geofencing decision is performed based on the obtained current position, and information related to the result of the decision is output. as well as If the decision not to perform the geofencing determination is selected, the execution of the geofencing determination is omitted.

14. The information processing method according to claim 13, wherein, The current state of the vehicle, as indicated by the vehicle information, includes the vehicle's speed. The decision on whether to implement the geofencing includes: If the vehicle's speed exceeds a threshold, the geofencing determination is performed; and If the vehicle's speed is below a threshold, the decision not to perform the geofencing is made.

15. The information processing method according to claim 13, wherein, The current state of the vehicle, as indicated by the vehicle information, includes the vehicle's speed. The decision on whether to implement the geofencing includes: If the vehicle's speed is below a threshold, the geofencing determination is performed; and If the vehicle's speed exceeds a threshold, the decision not to perform the geofencing is selected.

16. The information processing method according to claim 13, wherein, The current state of the vehicle, as indicated by the vehicle information, includes the vehicle's current driving mode.

17. The information processing method according to claim 16, wherein, The vehicle in question is a hybrid electric vehicle. The driving modes of the hybrid vehicle include electric vehicle mode and hybrid vehicle mode. The geofence is associated with low-emission zones. The decision on whether to implement the geofencing includes: If the vehicle's current driving mode is hybrid vehicle mode, then the geofencing determination is performed; and If the vehicle's current driving mode is electric vehicle mode, the decision not to perform the geofencing is selected.

18. The information processing method according to claim 13, wherein, The vehicle is equipped with a dashcam. The current state of the vehicle, as indicated by the vehicle information, includes the current recording mode of the dashcam. The geofence is associated with prohibiting photography. The decision on whether to implement the geofencing includes: If the dashcam's current recording mode is enabled, select to perform the geofence determination; and If the current recording mode of the dashcam is off, the decision not to perform the geofencing is selected.

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