Service assistance method, service assistance device, service assistance system, and storage medium storing service assistance program

Abstract

According to the service assisting method, the service assisting apparatus, the service assisting system, and the storage medium storing the service assisting program, in a case where the vehicle has been parked and there is a visitor to the vehicle, environmental information related to the surroundings of the vehicle is transmitted to a terminal possessed by a manager who manages the vehicle, response information of the manager is received from the terminal, and the response information is output to the visitor via an output section.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a service assistance method, service assistance device, service assistance system, and storage medium storing service assistance programs. Background Technology

[0002] A technology related to a service assistance device is proposed, which improves security during the transfer of goods via the cargo hold of a vehicle (see Patent Document 1). According to this service assistance device, visitors to the vehicle, other than the vehicle manager, can deposit or retrieve goods from the vehicle's cargo hold.

[0003] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-077338 Summary of the Invention

[0004] According to the technology described in Patent Document 1, there is a problem that the vehicle manager cannot communicate with the visitor and cannot supervise the storage or retrieval of goods.

[0005] The present invention was made in view of the above-mentioned problems. Its object is to provide a service assistance method, service assistance device, and storage medium storing service assistance programs that enable communication between vehicle managers and visitors to the vehicle.

[0006] To address the aforementioned issues, according to one aspect of the present invention, a service assistance method, service assistance device, service assistance system, and storage medium storing service assistance programs, when the vehicle is parked and a visitor to the vehicle is present, sends environmental information related to the vehicle's surroundings to a terminal owned by a manager who manages the vehicle, receives response information from the manager from the terminal, and outputs response information to the visitor via an output unit.

[0007] The effects of the invention

[0008] According to the present invention, communication can be established between the vehicle manager and the visitor to the vehicle. Attached Figure Description

[0009] Figure 1 This is a block diagram illustrating the structure of a service support system according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0010] Figure 2 This is a sequence diagram (starting) illustrating the processing of a service support system according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0011] Figure 3 This is a sequence diagram (end) illustrating the processing of a service support system according to one embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0012] Next, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the description, the same reference numerals are used to denote the same structures, and repeated descriptions are omitted.

[0013] [Structure of Service Support System]

[0014] Reference Figure 1 The structure of the service support system will be explained using an example. Figure 1 This is a block diagram illustrating the structure of a service support system according to one embodiment of the present invention. For example... Figure 1 As shown, the service support system has terminals 100 and service support devices 200 that are interconnected via a wireless or wired network 400.

[0015] Network 400, for example, is the Internet. Network 400 can also be a network that utilizes mobile communication functions such as 4G / LTE or 5G.

[0016] Terminal 100 outputs various information to its user, the administrator PA. Additionally, terminal 100 receives response information from the administrator PA (including information about at least one of an image or sound related to the administrator PA) and sends this response information via network 400 to the service assistance device 200 (described later). Furthermore, terminal 100 can also accept operations from the administrator PA and send information related to the received operations to the service assistance device 200 (described later) via network 400.

[0017] As an example of terminal 100, a portable terminal (smartphone, tablet, etc.) commonly used by users in daily life can be cited. Details of terminal 100 will be described later.

[0018] Service assistance device 200 is installed in a vehicle managed by administrator PA. Service assistance device 200 outputs various information to visitor PB accessing the vehicle. Additionally, service assistance device 200 acquires environmental information related to the vehicle's surroundings (including information on at least one of images or sounds related to the vehicle's surroundings) and transmits the acquired information to terminal 100 via network 400. Details of service assistance device 200 will be described later.

[0019] [Terminal Structure]

[0020] Next, terminal 100 will be described. For example... Figure 1 As shown, the terminal 100 has an output unit 160, a sensor 170, a controller 140, and a communication unit 110.

[0021] Output unit 160 outputs environmental information to the administrator PA. Output unit 160 can also display buttons related to various instructions for the service support system. Output unit 160 outputs various information to the administrator PA.

[0022] The output unit 160 is not limited to outputting information via visual information for various types of information. The output unit 160 can also output information to the user (manager PA) via auditory information, and can also generate vibration to output information to the user via the stimulation caused by the vibration.

[0023] More specifically, the output unit 160 can be a display that outputs visual information or a speaker that outputs auditory information. Additionally, the output unit 160 can also be a vibration device that generates vibrations. The output unit 160 is not limited to the examples given here.

[0024] Sensor 170 acquires response information (including information on at least one of an image or sound related to the manager PA) provided by the manager PA. For example, sensor 170 may be a photographic device that captures an image of the manager PA, or a microphone that captures the sound emitted by the manager PA.

[0025] Additionally, sensor 170 can also accept operations from the manager PA corresponding to various instructions from the manager PA for the service assistance system. For example, sensor 170 can be an input interface with multiple buttons or a touch panel with a touch interface.

[0026] More specifically, the output unit 160 can also display icons represented by graphics or symbols in a manner operable by the administrator PA, allowing the administrator PA to touch, drag, or otherwise interact with the displayed icons, thereby enabling the sensor 170 to receive operations from the administrator PA. The sensor 170 is not limited to the examples given here.

[0027] Communication unit 110 sends and receives information with network 400. Specifically, communication unit 110 is communicatively connected to service support device 200 via network 400. Communication unit 110 may also store information obtained from network 400 in a memory (not shown). Specifically, communication unit 110 obtains environmental information sent from service support device 200. Furthermore, communication unit 110 sends response information to service support device 200.

[0028] For example, the communications unit 110 can be a device with mobile communication capabilities such as 4G / LTE or 5G, or it can be a device with Wi-Fi communication capabilities. The communications unit 110 is not limited to the examples given here.

[0029] The controller 140 is connected to the output unit 160, the sensor 170 and the communication unit 110. Information from the sensor 170 and the communication unit 110 is input to the controller 140, and information for the output unit 160 and the communication unit 110 is output from the controller 140.

[0030] Furthermore, the controller 140 is a general-purpose computer with a CPU (central processing unit), memory, and input / output units. A computer program (service support program) is installed in the controller 140 to function as part of a service support system. By executing the computer program, the controller 140 controls the output unit 160, the sensor 170, and the communication unit 110.

[0031] In addition, service support programs can also be stored on computer-readable storage media. Furthermore, service support programs can also be provided via electrical communication lines.

[0032] The various information processing capabilities of the controller 140 can be implemented by software or by dedicated hardware.

[0033] When the controller 140 receives door closing information related to the vehicle's doors or trunk via the communication unit 110, it can also prompt the lock indicator button related to the lock indicator of the door or trunk involved in the door closing information via the output unit 160. Furthermore, when the controller 140 receives an operation from the administrator PA via the sensor 170 and the lock indicator button is activated, it can also send a lock indicator to the service assistance device 200 via the communication unit 110.

[0034] "Door closing information" is a message indicating that the vehicle's doors or trunk are closed, sent via the service assistance device 200. The "door closing information" may also include confirmation that the doors or trunk are closed.

[0035] "Lock Instruction" is information that instructs the locking of the vehicle's doors or trunk. The "Lock Instruction" may also include information confirming which door or trunk to be locked. Alternatively, based on the "Lock Instruction," the service assistance device 200 may determine whether the vehicle's doors or trunk can be locked.

[0036] Additionally, when the controller 140 receives proximity information via the communication unit 110, it can also prompt the response indication button related to permission to send response information via the output unit 160. Furthermore, when the controller 140 receives an operation from the manager PA via the sensor 170 and operates the response indication button, it can also send response information to the service assistance device 200 via the communication unit 110. Here, "proximity information" refers to information indicating that the visitor PB is present around the vehicle, and it is sent via the service assistance device 200.

[0037] Furthermore, when the controller 140 receives proximity information via the communication unit 110, it can also prompt the unlocking instruction button related to the unlocking instruction of the vehicle door or trunk via the output unit 160. Additionally, when the controller 140 receives an operation from the administrator PA via the sensor 170 and the unlocking instruction button is pressed, it can also send an unlocking instruction to the service assistance device 200 via the communication unit 110.

[0038] "Unlock instruction" is information that instructs the unlocking of the vehicle's doors or trunk. The "unlock instruction" may also include information confirming which door or trunk to unlock. Based on the "unlock instruction," the service assistance device 200 may determine whether the vehicle's doors or trunk can be unlocked.

[0039] Additionally, the controller 140 can also prompt the request instruction button related to the request instruction for environmental information via the output unit 160. Furthermore, when the controller 140 receives an operation from the manager PA via the sensor 170 and operates the request instruction button, it can also send a request instruction to the service assistance device 200 via the communication unit 110.

[0040] A "request instruction" is information that instructs the user to send environmental information. Based on the "request instruction," the service assistance device 200 can also determine whether the environmental information can be sent.

[0041] Furthermore, if the controller 140 receives an "not in" message via the communication unit 110, it can also prompt the end indication button via the output unit 160. Additionally, if the controller 140 receives an operation from the manager PA via the sensor 170 and the end indication button is pressed, it can also send an end indication to the service assistance device 200 via the communication unit 110.

[0042] Here, "absence information" indicates that the visitor PB is not present in the vicinity of the vehicle, and is sent via the service assistance device 200. Additionally, "end instruction" indicates the end of the acquisition of environmental information. Based on the "end instruction," the service assistance device 200 can also determine whether environmental information can be acquired.

[0043] [Structure of service support devices]

[0044] Next, the service assistance device 200 will be described. For example... Figure 1 As shown, the service assistance device 200 includes an output unit 260, a sensor 270, a controller 240, and a communication unit 210.

[0045] The output unit 260 outputs response information to the visitor PB who accesses the vehicle. The output unit 260 can also display buttons related to various commands for the service assistance system. The output unit 260 outputs various information to the visitor PB.

[0046] The output unit 260 is not limited to outputting information via visual information for various types of information. The output unit 260 can output information to the user (visitor PB) via auditory information, or it can generate vibration to output information to the user via the stimulation caused by the vibration.

[0047] More specifically, the output unit 260 can be a display that outputs visual information or a speaker that outputs auditory information. Alternatively, the output unit 260 can also be a vibration device that generates vibrations. The output unit 260 is not limited to the examples given here.

[0048] Furthermore, the output unit 260 can be installed in each door of the vehicle and in each trunk of the vehicle. The correspondence between the output unit 260 and the vehicle door or trunk can be managed by the controller 240 described later. Alternatively, the controller 240 can extract one of the multiple output units 260 that is associated with the door or trunk whose state has changed when the state of the vehicle door or trunk changes, and use the extracted output unit 260. Here, as an example of a change in the state of the vehicle door or trunk, examples include the opening and closing of the vehicle door or trunk, or the unlocking and locking of the vehicle door or trunk.

[0049] Sensor 270 acquires environmental information related to the vehicle's surroundings (including information on at least one of images or sounds related to the vehicle's surroundings). For example, sensor 270 may be a photographic device that captures images of the visitor PB, or a microphone that captures sounds emitted by the visitor PB.

[0050] Additionally, sensor 270 can acquire status information related to the state of the vehicle's doors or trunk. For example, changes in the state of the vehicle's doors or trunk can be detected as status information. Sensor 270 can be installed in each door of the vehicle and in each trunk of the vehicle.

[0051] Furthermore, sensor 270 can also acquire object information related to objects around the vehicle. For example, sensor 270 may include a laser rangefinder that uses light waves to measure distance, a camera that acquires still and moving images, or a sonar that uses ultrasound to measure distance. One or more sensors 270 for acquiring object information may be installed in the vehicle.

[0052] In addition, sensor 270 can also acquire driving information related to the vehicle's movement. For example, sensor 270 may include a vehicle speed sensor, and can also acquire the vehicle's speed as driving information. Sensor 270 can also be connected to the vehicle's ECU (Electronic Control Unit) to acquire information indicating whether the vehicle has stopped as driving information.

[0053] Additionally, sensor 270 can also accept operations from the visitor PB corresponding to various instructions from the visitor PB for the service assistance system. For example, sensor 270 can be an input interface with multiple buttons or a touch panel with a touch interface.

[0054] More specifically, the output unit 260 can display icons represented by graphics or symbols in a manner operable by the visitor PB, allowing the visitor PB to touch, drag, or otherwise interact with the displayed icons, thereby enabling the sensor 270 to receive the visitor PB's actions. The sensor 270 is not limited to the examples given here.

[0055] Communication unit 210 sends and receives information with network 400. Specifically, communication unit 210 is communicatively connected to terminal 100 via network 400. Communication unit 210 may also store information obtained from network 400 in a memory (not shown). Specifically, communication unit 210 obtains response information sent from terminal 100. In addition, communication unit 210 sends environmental information to terminal 100.

[0056] For example, the communication unit 210 can be a device with mobile communication functions such as 4G / LTE or 5G, or it can be a device with Wi-Fi communication functions. The communication unit 210 is not limited to the examples given here.

[0057] The controller 240 is connected to the output unit 260, the sensor 270, and the communication unit 210. Information from the sensor 270 and the communication unit 210 is input to the controller 240, and information for the output unit 260 and the communication unit 210 is output from the controller 240. In addition, the controller 240 can also be connected to a locking / unlocking device (not shown) for locking and unlocking the vehicle doors or trunk.

[0058] Furthermore, the controller 240 is a general-purpose computer with a CPU (central processing unit), memory, and input / output units. A computer program (service support program) for functioning as part of a service support system is installed on the controller 240. By executing the computer program, the computer functions as multiple information processing circuits within the service support device 200.

[0059] Furthermore, service support programs can be stored on computer-readable storage media. Alternatively, service support programs can also be provided via electrical communication lines.

[0060] Here, an example is shown of multiple information processing circuits implemented by the software-aided service device 200. However, it is also possible to prepare dedicated hardware for performing the various information processing operations described below to construct the information processing circuits. Alternatively, multiple information processing circuits can be constructed from separate hardware.

[0061] Alternatively, the controller 240 can also be an ECU (Electronic Control Unit) found in the vehicle.

[0062] As an example of multiple information processing circuits (information processing functions), the controller 240 has a determination unit 241, a determination unit 243, an information management unit 245, and a lock / unlock management unit 247.

[0063] The determination unit 241 determines whether the vehicle has stopped. For example, the determination unit 241 determines whether the vehicle has stopped based on driving information from the sensor 270. Additionally, the determination unit 241 determines whether a visitor PB is present in the vehicle. The determination unit 241 determines whether a visitor PB is present based on object information from the sensor 270.

[0064] More specifically, the determination unit 241 determines whether an object at a distance less than or equal to a predetermined distance from the sensor 270 is a person based on object information. If the object is determined to be a person, a visitor PB is identified. For example, the determination unit 241 may also determine whether the distance to the object, as contained in the object information, is less than or equal to the predetermined distance. Furthermore, the determination unit 241 may also determine whether an object is a person based on the object's movement speed, size, shape, etc., as contained in the object information.

[0065] Furthermore, the determination unit 241 can determine whether the vehicle doors or trunk are open based on status information. Similarly, the determination unit 241 can determine whether the vehicle doors or trunk are closed based on status information. Additionally, the determination unit 241 can also determine whether the vehicle doors or trunk are unlocked based on status information. The determination unit 241 can also determine whether the vehicle doors or trunk are locked based on status information.

[0066] The determination unit 241 can also determine the presence of a visitor PB if it detects that the vehicle door or trunk has been opened.

[0067] In addition, the determination unit 241 may also determine that there is no visitor PB of the vehicle if the objects around the vehicle during the determined period are not people.

[0068] The determining unit 243 determines the output unit 260 closest to the visitor PB among multiple output units 260 based on object information. For example, the determining unit 243 determines the relative position of the visitor PB with respect to the vehicle based on object information. Based on the determined position of the visitor PB, the determining unit 243 determines the output unit 260 closest to the visitor PB. The output units 260 may be provided in each door of the vehicle, or in each trunk of the vehicle, or the determining unit 243 may determine the output unit 260 closest to the visitor PB based on the correspondence between the output units 260 and the vehicle doors or trunk.

[0069] Furthermore, if the vehicle is not equipped with multiple output units 260, but only with one output unit 260, the process of determining the output unit 260 by the determining unit 243 can be omitted.

[0070] When the vehicle is parked and a visitor PB is present, the information management unit 245 performs a series of processes. Specifically, the information management unit 245 sends environmental information to the terminal 100 via the communication unit 210. Furthermore, the information management unit 245 receives response information from the administrator PA from the terminal 100 via the communication unit 210, and outputs response information to the visitor PB via the output unit 260.

[0071] Furthermore, the information management unit 245 can also output response information via the output unit 260 closest to the visitor's PB. Here, the output unit 260 closest to the visitor's PB is determined by the determination unit 243.

[0072] Additionally, the information management unit 245 can also output response information via an output unit 260 configured in association with the opened vehicle door or trunk when it detects that the vehicle door or trunk is open. Furthermore, the information management unit 245 can also output response information via an output unit 260 configured in association with the unlocked vehicle door or trunk when it detects that the vehicle door or trunk is unlocked.

[0073] Furthermore, the information management unit 245 can also send door closing information related to the closed vehicle door or trunk to the terminal 100 when it detects that the vehicle door or trunk is closed. In addition, the information management unit 245 can also generate proximity information and send it to the terminal 100 via the communication unit 210 when it determines that a visitor PB is present.

[0074] Furthermore, the information management unit 245 can also terminate the transmission of environmental information to the terminal 100 via the communication unit 210 if it determines that the visitor PB does not exist. The information management unit 245 can also terminate the output of response information to the visitor PB via the output unit 260 if it determines that the visitor PB does not exist.

[0075] The information management unit 245 can also generate an absence message if it determines that there is no visitor PB, and send the absence message to the terminal 100 via the communication unit 210.

[0076] Furthermore, the information management unit 245 can also decide whether or not to send information based on various instructions sent from the terminal 100. For example, the information management unit 245 can send environmental information upon receiving a request instruction from the terminal 100. The information management unit 245 can also terminate the acquisition of environmental information upon receiving a termination instruction from the terminal 100.

[0077] The lock / unlock management unit 247 receives an unlock instruction from the terminal 100 via the communication unit 210. Furthermore, when an unlock instruction is present, the lock / unlock management unit 247 unlocks the vehicle door or trunk corresponding to the unlock instruction via the lock / unlock device. That is, the lock / unlock management unit 247 determines the door or trunk to be unlocked based on the unlock instruction and unlocks the determined door or trunk.

[0078] Furthermore, the lock / unlock management unit 247 receives a lock instruction from the terminal 100 via the communication unit 210. When a lock instruction is present, the lock / unlock management unit 247 unlocks the vehicle door or trunk corresponding to the lock instruction via the lock / unlock device. That is, based on the lock instruction, the lock / unlock management unit 247 determines the door or trunk to be locked and locks the determined door or trunk.

[0079] In addition, the lock / unlock management unit 247 can also lock the doors or trunk via the lock / unlock device if it is determined that there is no visitor PB.

[0080] [Service Support System Processing Flow (Start-up)]

[0081] Next, the processing flow (at the beginning) of the service support system will be explained. Figure 2 This is a sequence diagram (at the beginning) representing the processing of the service support system involved in this embodiment.

[0082] In step S101, sensor 270 acquires object information related to objects around the vehicle.

[0083] In step S103, sensor 270 acquires status information related to the status of the vehicle's doors or trunk.

[0084] In step S105, the determination unit 241 determines whether a visitor PB has a vehicle. Additionally, the determination unit 241 determines whether the vehicle has stopped.

[0085] If it is determined that there is no visitor PB (in the case of NO in step S105), the process returns to step S101. On the other hand, if it is determined that there is a visitor PB (in the case of YES in step S105), in step S107, sensor 270 begins to acquire environmental information related to the vehicle's surroundings.

[0086] In step S109, the information management unit 245 sends environmental information to the terminal 100.

[0087] In step S111, the information management unit 245 generates proximity information.

[0088] In step S113, the information management unit 245 sends proximity information to the terminal 100.

[0089] In step S115, terminal 100 begins prompting for environmental information received from service assistance device 200. Additionally, terminal 100 begins prompting for unlocking indication buttons related to unlocking vehicle doors or trunk. Furthermore, terminal 100 prompts for response indication buttons related to permission to send response information.

[0090] In step S117, the terminal 100 determines whether it has accepted the operation of the administrator PA and whether there is an unlock indication (whether the unlock indication button has been operated).

[0091] If an unlock instruction is present (in the case of YES in step S117), in step S119, terminal 100 sends an unlock instruction to service assistance device 200. In step S121, after receiving the unlock instruction, lock / unlock management unit 247 unlocks the vehicle door or trunk corresponding to the unlock instruction via lock / unlock device.

[0092] On the other hand, if there is no unlocking instruction (in the case of NO in step S117), proceed to step S123.

[0093] In step S123, the terminal 100 determines whether it has accepted the operation of the manager PA and whether there is a response indication (whether the response indication button has been operated).

[0094] If a response indication is present (YES in step S123), in step S125, sensor 170 acquires the response information provided by the administrator PA. In step S127, terminal 100 sends the response information to service assistance device 200. In step S129, information management unit 245 receives the response information from administrator PA and outputs response information to visitor PB.

[0095] [Service Support System Processing Flow (At the End)]

[0096] Next, the processing flow (at the end) of the service support system will be explained. Figure 3 This is a sequence diagram (end) representing the processing of the service support system involved in this embodiment.

[0097] In step S201, sensor 270 acquires object information related to objects around the vehicle.

[0098] In step S203, sensor 270 acquires status information related to the status of the vehicle's doors or trunk.

[0099] In step S205, the determination unit 241 determines whether a visitor PB exists. Additionally, the determination unit 241 determines whether the vehicle has stopped.

[0100] If a visitor PB is determined to exist (if YES in step S205), the process returns to step S201. On the other hand, if a visitor PB is determined not to exist (if NO in step S205), in step S207, the lock / unlock management unit 247 locks the door or trunk via the lock / unlock device.

[0101] In step S209, the information management unit 245 generates an "absent" message. Then, in step S211, the information management unit 245 sends the "absent" message to the terminal 100.

[0102] In step S213, terminal 100 displays a notification indicating that the message is not present. Additionally, terminal 100 displays a notification for the end indicator button.

[0103] In step S215, terminal 100 determines whether an end instruction (whether the end instruction button was pressed) has been received due to the operation of the administrator PA.

[0104] If an end instruction is present (in the case of YES in step S215), in step S217, terminal 100 sends an end instruction to service assistance device 200.

[0105] In step S219, terminal 100 ends the environmental information prompt. Additionally, in step S221, sensor 170 ends the acquisition of environmental information. Information management unit 245 can also end the acquisition of environmental information upon receiving an end instruction from terminal 100.

[0106] [Effects of the Implementation Method]

[0107] As explained in detail above, according to the service assistance method, service assistance device, service assistance system and service assistance program involved in this embodiment, when the vehicle is parked and there are visitors to the vehicle, environmental information related to the vehicle's surroundings is sent to a terminal owned by the manager who manages the vehicle, response information from the manager is received from the terminal, and response information is output to the visitors via the output unit.

[0108] This enables communication between vehicle managers and visitors. In particular, it facilitates communication between managers and visitors when providing services via vehicles. Consequently, it aids in the provision of services. Managers can monitor the provision of services to visitors by the vehicles they manage.

[0109] Furthermore, the service assistance method, service assistance device, service assistance system, and service assistance program involved in this embodiment can also obtain object information related to surrounding objects via sensors, and determine whether a visitor exists based on the object information. Thus, the presence or absence of visitors can be detected using the sensors present in the vehicle, enabling communication between the manager and the visitor.

[0110] Furthermore, the service assistance method, service assistance device, service assistance system, and service assistance program involved in this embodiment can also determine whether an object at a distance less than or equal to a predetermined distance from the sensor is a person based on object information. If the object is determined to be a person, a visitor is identified. This allows for highly accurate detection of visitors intended to communicate with the administrator. Furthermore, it prevents unnecessary notifications to the administrator when the object is not a person, or when the object is a person but not within the predetermined distance. As a result, user convenience is improved.

[0111] Furthermore, the service assistance method, service assistance device, service assistance system, and service assistance program involved in this embodiment can also determine the output unit closest to the visitor among multiple output units based on object information, and output response information through the determined output unit. Therefore, when providing services via a vehicle, communication with the administrator can be conducted using the output unit closest to the visitor. Moreover, when the visitor uses the service while communicating with the administrator, the visitor does not need to circle around the vehicle. As a result, user convenience is improved.

[0112] Furthermore, the service assistance method, service assistance device, service assistance system, and service assistance program involved in this embodiment can also acquire status information related to the status of the vehicle's doors or trunk via sensors. Therefore, based on changes in the status of the vehicle's doors or trunk, it is possible to assist in determining whether a service using the vehicle is available or in providing the service.

[0113] Furthermore, the service assistance method, service assistance device, service assistance system, and service assistance program described in this embodiment can also determine the presence of a visitor when the vehicle door or trunk is detected to be open based on status information. This allows for highly accurate determination of the visitor's presence. Moreover, it enables communication between the administrator and the visitor in relation to the service used by the visitor.

[0114] Furthermore, the service assistance method, service assistance device, service assistance system, and service assistance program involved in this embodiment can also output response information via an output unit configured in association with the opened vehicle door or trunk when it is detected that the vehicle door or trunk is open based on status information. Therefore, when a visitor uses the service while communicating with the administrator, the visitor does not need to walk around the vehicle. As a result, user convenience is improved.

[0115] Furthermore, the service assistance method, service assistance device, service assistance system, and service assistance program described in this embodiment can also output response information via an output unit configured in association with the unlocked vehicle door or trunk when it is detected that the vehicle door or trunk is unlocked based on status information. Therefore, when a visitor uses the service while communicating with the administrator, the visitor does not need to walk around the vehicle. As a result, user convenience is improved.

[0116] Furthermore, the service assistance method, service assistance device, service assistance system, and service assistance program involved in this embodiment can also send door closing information related to the closed vehicle door or trunk when it is detected that the vehicle door or trunk is closed based on status information. Moreover, the terminal involved in the service assistance system can also, upon receiving door closing information, prompt a lock indication button related to the lock indication of the closed vehicle door or trunk, and send a lock indication to the service assistance device when the lock indication button is operated. Thus, the administrator can confirm the locking of the vehicle door or trunk related to service provision.

[0117] Furthermore, the service assistance method, service assistance device, service assistance system, and service assistance program described in this embodiment can also send proximity information to the terminal via the communication unit when a visitor is detected. Thus, the administrator can confirm the approach of a visitor with a vehicle using their own terminal.

[0118] Furthermore, in the service assistance method, service assistance device, service assistance system, and service assistance program involved in this embodiment, the terminal involved in the service assistance system can also prompt a response indication button related to the permission to send response information when receiving proximity information, and send the response information to the service assistance device when the response indication button is operated. This gives the administrator an opportunity to determine whether to initiate communication with the visitor accessing the vehicle. Additionally, after confirming the visitor, the administrator can initiate communication with the visitor, thus improving the quality of service provision. Furthermore, it suppresses the misuse of services by malicious visitors, improving security.

[0119] Furthermore, in the service assistance method, service assistance device, service assistance system, and service assistance program involved in this embodiment, the terminal involved in the service assistance system can also prompt the unlocking instruction button related to the unlocking instruction of the vehicle's doors or trunk upon receiving proximity information, and send the unlocking instruction to the service assistance device when the unlocking instruction button is operated. This provides the administrator with the opportunity to determine whether to unlock the vehicle's doors or trunk for a visitor accessing the vehicle. Additionally, after confirming the visitor, the administrator can determine whether to unlock the vehicle. As a result, unauthorized use of services by malicious visitors is suppressed, and security is improved.

[0120] Furthermore, in the service assistance method, service assistance device, service assistance system, and service assistance program involved in this embodiment, the terminal involved in the service assistance system can also prompt a request instruction button related to the request instruction for environmental information, and send the request instruction to the service assistance device when the request instruction button is operated. Moreover, the service assistance method, service assistance device, service assistance system, and service assistance program involved in this embodiment can also send environmental information upon receiving a request instruction. Therefore, managers can check the environmental information around the vehicle at any given time. As a result, user convenience is improved.

[0121] Furthermore, in the service assistance method, service assistance device, service assistance system, and service assistance program described in this embodiment, the service assistance device involved in the service assistance system can also be connected to a locking / unlocking device for locking and unlocking vehicle doors or the trunk. This enables assistance with services provided using the vehicle compartment or cargo hold. Moreover, it facilitates communication between managers and visitors, and assists in the provision of services.

[0122] Furthermore, the service assistance method, service assistance device, service assistance system, and service assistance program involved in this embodiment can also receive an unlocking instruction from a terminal via a communication unit. When an unlocking instruction is present, the vehicle door or trunk corresponding to the unlocking instruction can be unlocked via a lock / unlock device. Therefore, in order to provide service, the vehicle manager can reliably unlock the vehicle door or trunk.

[0123] Furthermore, the service assistance method, service assistance device, service assistance system, and service assistance program involved in this embodiment can also receive a locking instruction from a terminal via a communication unit. When a locking instruction is present, the vehicle door or trunk corresponding to the locking instruction can be locked via a locking / unlocking device. Therefore, the vehicle manager can reliably lock the vehicle door or trunk after the service has been provided.

[0124] Furthermore, the service assistance method, service assistance device, service assistance system, and service assistance program described in this embodiment can also lock the vehicle doors or trunk via a lock / unlock device when no visitors are present. This allows the vehicle doors or trunk to be locked even when no service is needed, ensuring that goods and other items stored inside the vehicle are reliably stored. Additionally, it prevents unauthorized use of services by malicious visitors, thus improving security.

[0125] Furthermore, the service assistance method, service assistance device, service assistance system, and service assistance program described in this embodiment can also terminate the transmission of environmental information and the output of response information when there are no visitors on the vehicle side. Thus, when service is not required, the transmission and reception of environmental information are stopped, reducing the processing load. Moreover, by terminating the output of response information on the vehicle side, unnecessary energy consumption can be suppressed.

[0126] Furthermore, in the service assistance method, service assistance device, service assistance system, and service assistance program involved in this embodiment, the environmental information may also include at least one of images or sounds related to the vehicle's surroundings. Thus, the vehicle manager can identify information about the vehicle's surroundings through sight or hearing.

[0127] Furthermore, in the service assistance method, service assistance device, service assistance system, and service assistance program involved in this embodiment, the response information may also include at least one of an image or sound related to the administrator. Thus, visitors accessing the vehicle can identify the response content from the administrator through visual or auditory means.

[0128] The functions shown in the above embodiments can be implemented by one or more processing circuits. The processing circuit includes a programmed processor or electrical circuit, and also includes a device such as an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) or circuit structure elements configured to perform the described functions.

[0129] The present invention has been described above based on the embodiments. However, those skilled in the art will readily recognize that the present invention is not limited to these descriptions and various modifications and improvements are possible. The discussions and drawings that form part of this disclosure should not be construed as limiting the present invention. Based on this disclosure, those skilled in the art will be able to conceive of various alternative embodiments, examples, and techniques.

[0130] This invention naturally includes various embodiments not described herein. Therefore, the technical scope of this invention is determined only by the specific inventive matters addressed by the claims that are appropriate for the foregoing description.

[0131] Explanation of the label

[0132] 100 terminals

[0133] 110 Ministry of Communications

[0134] 140 Controller

[0135] 160 Output Section

[0136] 170 sensor

[0137] 200 Service Auxiliary Devices

[0138] 210 Ministry of Communications

[0139] 240 Controller

[0140] 241 Judgment Department

[0141] 243 Determination Department

[0142] 245 Information Management Department

[0143] 247 Lockout Management Department

[0144] 260 Output Section

[0145] 270 Sensors

[0146] 400 network

[0147] PA Manager

[0148] PB Visitors

Claims

1. A service assistance method relating to a service assistance device comprising a communication unit, a sensor, an output unit, and a controller. The characteristic of this service assistance method is that, The communication unit is communicatively connected to the terminal owned by the manager who manages the vehicle. The sensor acquires environmental information related to the vehicle's surroundings. When the vehicle is parked and there are visitors to the vehicle, the controller sends the environmental information to the terminal via the communication unit. The communication unit receives the manager's response information from the terminal. The response information is output to the visitor via the output unit.

2. The service assistance method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The sensor acquires object information related to the surrounding objects. The controller determines whether the visitor exists based on the object information.

3. The service assistance method according to claim 2, characterized in that, Based on the object information, the controller determines whether an object located at a distance less than or equal to a predetermined distance from the sensor is a person. If the object is determined to be a person, then the visitor is determined to exist.

4. The service assistance method according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that, Based on the object information, the controller determines the output unit closest to the visitor among the plurality of output units. The response information is output via the determined output unit.

5. The service assistance method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The sensor acquires status information related to the status of the vehicle's doors or trunk.

6. The service assistance method according to claim 5, characterized in that, If the controller detects that the vehicle door or trunk is open based on the status information, it determines that the visitor is present.

7. The service assistance method according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that, When the controller detects that a door or trunk of the vehicle has been opened based on the status information, it outputs the response information via an output unit configured in association with the opened door or trunk of the vehicle.

8. The service assistance method according to any one of claims 5 to 7, characterized in that, When the controller detects that the vehicle door or trunk has been unlocked based on the status information, it outputs the response information via an output unit configured in association with the unlocked vehicle door or trunk.

9. The service assistance method according to any one of claims 5 to 8, characterized in that, When the controller detects that the vehicle door or trunk is closed based on the status information, it sends closing information related to the closed vehicle door or trunk. Upon receiving the door closing information, the terminal prompts the locking indicator button associated with the locked door or trunk of the closed vehicle. When the lock indicator button is activated, the lock indicator is sent to the controller.

10. The service assistance method according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that, When the controller determines that the visitor is present, it sends proximity information to the terminal via the communication unit.

11. The service assistance method according to claim 10, characterized in that, Upon receiving the proximity information, the terminal prompts a response indicator button related to the permission to send the response information. When the response indicator button is activated, the response information is sent to the controller.

12. The service assistance method according to claim 10 or 11, characterized in that, Upon receiving the proximity information, the terminal prompts the unlocking indicator button associated with the unlocking indication of the vehicle's door or trunk. When the unlock instruction button is pressed, the unlock instruction is sent to the controller.

13. The service assistance method according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that, The terminal prompts the user with a request indication button related to the request for environmental information. If the request instruction button is pressed, the request instruction is sent to the controller. Upon receiving the request instruction, the controller sends the environmental information.

14. The service assistance method according to any one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that, The controller is connected to a locking / unlocking device for locking and unlocking the vehicle's doors or trunk.

15. The service assistance method according to claim 14, characterized in that, The controller receives an unlock instruction from the terminal via the communication unit. When the unlocking instruction is present, the door or trunk of the vehicle corresponding to the unlocking instruction is unlocked via the locking and unlocking device.

16. The service assistance method according to claim 14 or 15, characterized in that, The controller receives a lock instruction from the terminal via the communication unit. When the lock instruction is present, the door or trunk of the vehicle corresponding to the lock instruction is locked via the lock / unlock device.

17. The service assistance method according to any one of claims 14 to 16, characterized in that, In the absence of the visitor, the controller locks the car door or the trunk via the locking / unlocking device.

18. The service assistance method according to any one of claims 1 to 17, characterized in that, If no visitors are present in the vehicle, the controller stops sending the environmental information and stops outputting the response information.

19. The service assistance method according to any one of claims 1 to 18, characterized in that, The environmental information includes at least one of an image or sound related to the surroundings.

20. The service assistance method according to any one of claims 1 to 19, characterized in that, The response information includes at least one of an image or sound associated with the administrator.

21. A service assistance device comprising a communication unit, a sensor, an output unit, and a controller. The feature of this service assistance device is that The communication unit is communicatively connected to the terminal owned by the manager who manages the vehicle. The sensor acquires environmental information related to the vehicle's surroundings. When the vehicle is parked and there are visitors to the vehicle, the controller sends the environmental information to the terminal via the communication unit. The communication unit receives the manager's response information from the terminal. The response information is output to the visitor via the output unit.

22. A service support system, comprising: The terminal possessed by the manager who manages the vehicles; and Service auxiliary device, which includes a communication unit, sensors, an output unit, and a controller. The feature of this service assistance system is that, The communication unit is communicatively connected to the terminal. The sensor acquires environmental information related to the vehicle's surroundings. When the vehicle is parked and there are visitors to the vehicle, the controller sends the environmental information to the terminal via the communication unit. The communication unit receives the manager's response information from the terminal. The response information is output to the visitor via the output unit.

23. A storage medium storing a service assistance program for execution in a controller connected to a communication unit, a sensor, and an output unit, the communication unit being communicatively connected to a terminal owned by an administrator managing a vehicle, the sensor acquiring environmental information related to the vehicle's surroundings. The storage medium containing the service support program is characterized in that, The service assistance program, when the vehicle is parked and there are visitors to the vehicle, includes the following steps: The environmental information is sent to the terminal via the communication unit; The communication unit receives the manager's response information from the terminal; and The response information is output to the visitor via the output unit.

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