System, server device, information processing device, and vehicle

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a system, a server apparatus, an information processing apparatus, and a vehicle. The system includes a server apparatus and an information processing apparatus installed in a vehicle. The server apparatus is configured to select, from among a plurality of service terms texts, a first service terms text corresponding to a region associated with the vehicle, and preferentially select, as the first service terms text, a service terms text corresponding to a language set in the information processing apparatus for text display. The plurality of service terms texts each correspond to a different combination of a region and a language, and include a usage terms for a respective region written in a respective language. The server apparatus is configured to transmit the selected first service terms text to the information processing apparatus via a network.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to systems, server devices, information processing devices, and vehicles. Background Technology

[0002] Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2020-135813 (JP 2020-135813 A) discloses a device that displays a screen allowing a user riding in a vehicle to choose whether to consent to the provision of information, and sends the information to the outside of the vehicle when the user consents. The device displays terms and conditions regarding the provision of personal information on the screen. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In some regions, regulations require the full text of the Terms of Service to be displayed on the in-vehicle device's screen. In such regions, it is conceivable that the in-vehicle device would use a web browser to connect to a website displaying the Terms of Service, and then display the text of the Terms of Service on that website.

[0004] However, the text of the Terms of Service applicable to users may differ depending on the combination of countries, brands, and languages ​​to be supported. While it's conceivable to allow users to manually select the combination of country, brand, and language on the website, this could be cumbersome for them. Although this would still comply with regulations, it's not necessarily expected to take the time to display the appropriate Terms of Service text, leaving users confused about how to choose the text, or displaying the Terms of Service text in a language that is not suitable for them.

[0005] This disclosure provides a technique for automatically displaying the text of the terms of service applicable to users.

[0006] One aspect of this disclosure provides a server apparatus comprising: a communication unit configured to communicate with an information processing device installed in a vehicle; and a processor configured to select a first service terms text corresponding to a region associated with the vehicle from a plurality of service terms texts, and to send the selected first service terms text to the information processing device via the communication unit. Each of the plurality of service terms texts corresponds to a different combination of region and language, and includes usage terms written in the respective language for the corresponding region. The processor is configured to preferentially select a service terms text corresponding to a language set in the information processing device for text display as the first service terms text.

[0007] One aspect of this disclosure provides an information processing apparatus installed in a vehicle. The apparatus includes: a communication unit configured to communicate with a server device; and a processor configured to, upon receiving from the server device a first term of service text corresponding to a region associated with the vehicle and selected from a plurality of term of service texts, display the received term of service text on a display installed in the vehicle, and upon receiving user input indicating user agreement to the terms of use included in the displayed term of service text via an input device installed in the vehicle, transmit information collected in the vehicle to the server device via the communication unit. The term of service text corresponding to a language set in the information processing apparatus for text display is preferentially selected as the first term of service text. Each of the plurality of term of service texts corresponds to a different combination of region and language, and includes terms of use written in the corresponding language for the corresponding region.

[0008] According to this disclosure, the text of the terms of service applicable to users can be displayed automatically. Attached Figure Description

[0009] The features, advantages, and technical and industrial significance of exemplary embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein like symbols denote like elements, and wherein:

[0010] Figure 1 This is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of a system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 2 The figure illustrates an example of a vehicle including an information processing device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 3 This is a block diagram illustrating the connection between an information processing apparatus and a vehicle-mounted device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 4 This is a timing diagram illustrating an example of a communication process between an information processing apparatus and a server apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating the operation of a server apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating the operation of an information processing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; and Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating a variation of the operation of a server apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0011] Embodiments of this disclosure will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0012] In the various figures, the same or corresponding parts are indicated by the same reference numerals. In the description of this embodiment, the description of the same or corresponding parts will be omitted or simplified as appropriate.

[0013] Reference Figure 1 The configuration of system 10 according to this embodiment is described.

[0014] The system 10 according to this embodiment includes an information processing device 20 and a server device 30. The information processing device 20 is capable of communicating with the server device 30 via a network 40.

[0015] Information processing device 20 is a computer such as a microcomputer or ECU, or a device obtained by combining such a computer with other devices such as communication devices. The term "ECU" is an abbreviation for "electronic control unit." Figure 2 As shown, the information processing device 20 is installed in the vehicle 50.

[0016] Vehicle 50 is any type of automobile, such as a gasoline vehicle, diesel vehicle, hydrogen fuel cell vehicle, HEV, PHEV, BEV, or FCEV. The term "HEV" is an abbreviation for "hybrid electric vehicle." The term "PHEV" is an abbreviation for "plug-in hybrid electric vehicle." The term "BEV" is an abbreviation for "battery electric vehicle." The term "FCEV" is an abbreviation for "fuel cell electric vehicle." In this embodiment, vehicle 50 is driven by user 11. However, driving can be automated at any level. For example, the level of automated driving is one of levels 1 to 5 as defined by SAE. The term "SAE" is an abbreviation for "Society of Automotive Engineers." Vehicle 50 can be a MaaS-specific vehicle. The term "MaaS" is an abbreviation for "Mobility as a Service."

[0017] Server device 30 is a server computer, such as a cloud server. Server device 30 is installed in a facility such as a data center. Server device 30 is connected to database 34 directly via a wired or wireless connection or via network 40. As a variation, server device 30 may include database 34 itself.

[0018] Network 40 includes the Internet, at least one WAN, at least one MAN, or any combination thereof. The term "WAN" is an abbreviation for "wide area network." The term "MAN" is an abbreviation for "metropolitan area network." Network 40 may include at least one wireless network, at least one optical network, or any combination thereof. Wireless networks may be, for example, ad hoc networks, cellular networks, wireless LANs, satellite communication networks, or terrestrial microwave networks. The term "LAN" is an abbreviation for "local area network."

[0019] like Figure 3 As shown, in this embodiment, the information processing device 20 is connected to various devices installed on the vehicle 50, such as output devices 51, input devices 52, cameras 53, microphones 54, positioning devices 55, and various sensors 57. Interfaces conforming to standards such as USB, HDMI (registered trademark), or Bluetooth (registered trademark) can be used as interfaces for connecting to the various devices. The term "USB" is an abbreviation for "Universal Serial Bus." The term "HDMI (registered trademark)" is an abbreviation for "High-Definition Multimedia Interface." The information processing device 20 can be connected to the various devices via an in-vehicle network such as CAN. The term "CAN" is an abbreviation for "Controller Area Network." As a variation, the information processing device 20 itself may include more than one of the various devices installed on the vehicle 50.

[0020] Output device 51 is, for example, a display or a speaker. The display is, for example, an LCD or organic EL display. The term "LCD" is an abbreviation for "liquid crystal display." The term "EL" is an abbreviation for "electroluminescent." The display may display audio. Output device 51 outputs information obtained through the operation of information processing device 20.

[0021] Input device 52 may be, for example, a physical key, a capacitive key, a pointing device, or a touchscreen integrated with the display. Camera 53, microphone 54, or both may also be used as input device 52. Input device 52 receives input information for operation of information processing device 20.

[0022] Camera 53 is, for example, a visible light camera or a depth camera. Camera 53 captures images of the interior, exterior, or both of the vehicle 50. The output of camera 53 includes image information of the captured images.

[0023] Microphone 54 collects sound from inside, outside, or both of the vehicle 50. The output of microphone 54 includes audio information of the collected sound.

[0024] Positioning device 55 is, for example, a GNSS receiver. The term "GNSS" is an abbreviation for "Global Navigation Satellite System." GNSS includes, for example, GPS, QZSS, BDS, GLONASS, or Galileo. The term "GPS" is an abbreviation for "Global Positioning System." The term "QZSS" is an abbreviation for "Quasi-Zenith Satellite System." QZSS satellites are called Quasi-Zenith Satellites. The term "BDS" is an abbreviation for "BeiDou Navigation Satellite System." The term "GLONASS" is an abbreviation for "Global Navigation Satellite System." Positioning device 55 measures the coordinates of vehicle 50, i.e., the vehicle's position. Positioning device 55 outputs position information including the measured vehicle position.

[0025] Various sensors 57 include, for example, vehicle speed sensors, acceleration sensors, gyroscopes, human presence sensors, or door open / close sensors. These sensors 57 observe various events occurring in different parts of the vehicle 50. The sensors 57 output vehicle information including the observations.

[0026] Reference Figures 1 to 3 This embodiment is described in summary.

[0027] Server device 30 selects a service terms text corresponding to the region associated with vehicle 50 from multiple service terms texts, prioritizing those corresponding to the language used for text display as set in information processing device 20. The service terms texts correspond to different combinations of regions and languages. Each service terms text includes usage terms written in the corresponding language for the corresponding region. The language used for text display is the language used to display various texts such as menus, guides, or notices when user 11 uses various systems such as multimedia systems or various functions such as connectivity services in vehicle 50.

[0028] Server device 30 sends the selected terms of service text to information processing device 20 via network 40. When information processing device 20 receives the sent terms of service text from server device 30 via network 40, it displays the received terms of service text on a display installed on vehicle 50.

[0029] When the information processing device 20 receives user input indicating user agreement to the terms of use included in the displayed terms of service via the input device 52 installed on the vehicle 50, the information processing device 20 transmits one or more of four types of information (i.e., location information, sound information, image information, and vehicle information) to the server device 30 in real time via the network 40. Location information is obtained via the positioning device 55 installed on the vehicle 50. Sound information is obtained via the microphone 54 installed on the vehicle 50. Image information is obtained via the camera 53 installed on the vehicle 50. Vehicle information is obtained via various sensors 57 installed on the vehicle 50.

[0030] Therefore, according to this embodiment, the terms of service text applicable to user 11 can be automatically displayed. As a result, the convenience for user 11 is improved.

[0031] For example, in regions where regulations require the full text of the connected service's terms of use to be displayed on the in-vehicle device screen, it is conceivable that the information processing device 20 could use a web browser to connect to a website displaying the terms of service and automatically display the text on the website. In such an example, the server device 30 automatically determines the display language of the terms of service text based on information stored in the server device 30 regarding the contracting country associated with the vehicle 50, and information sent from the information processing device 20 regarding the language currently used by the user 11 for text display. The information processing device 20 displays the terms of service text in the display language automatically determined by the server device 30. Therefore, not only can regulations be met, but the time spent displaying the appropriate terms of service text can also be reduced. The user 11 does not need to manually select the combination of country and language on the website, and therefore will not be confused about how to select the terms of service text.

[0032] When only one language exists corresponding to the information about the contracting country, server device 30 does not need to use the information about that language. In this case, to improve processing efficiency, server device 30 may not have information processing device 20 send the information about that language. As an example, suppose the information about the contracting country indicates the United Kingdom. Suppose that the terms of service text for the United Kingdom is only available in English. In this case, server device 30 will determine the display language of the terms of service text as English, without referring to the information about the language.

[0033] Even if there are two or more languages ​​corresponding to the information about the signatory country, and such languages ​​do not include the language currently used by user 11 for text display, server device 30 can determine the display language of the terms of service text based on information other than the information about that language. For example, server device 30 determines the display language of the terms of service text according to a pre-set priority order on the website. As an example, suppose the information about the signatory country indicates Belgium, and the information about the language indicates German. Suppose there are only two versions of the terms of service text for Belgium: Dutch and French. Suppose the Dutch version is given higher priority than the French version. In this case, server device 30 determines the display language of the terms of service text to be Dutch. Alternatively, server device 30 can determine the display language of the terms of service text by referring to information about the current location of vehicle 50 sent from information processing device 20. However, since user 11 has not yet agreed to use the terms, it is expected that the information about the current location is about a rough geographical range, rather than information as precise as location information. It is expected that user 11 can choose not to provide information about the current location. As an example, suppose the information about the signatory country indicates Belgium, the information about the language indicates German, and the information about the current location indicates southern Belgium. Assume that only two versions of the Terms of Service exist for Belgium: Dutch and French. Assume that northern Belgium is defined as the Dutch-speaking region and southern Belgium as the French-speaking region. In this case, server device 30 will determine the display language of the Terms of Service text to be Dutch. Information about user 11's current address can be used instead of information about their current location. However, it is expected that user 11 can also choose not to provide information about their current address.

[0034] An example of the communication process between the information processing device 20 and the server device 30 is as follows: Figure 4 As shown.

[0035] In this example, server device 30 is implemented as a distributed system including relay server 35, contract management server 36, and network server 37. Relay server 35, contract management server 36, and network server 37 can communicate with each other via network 40.

[0036] In step S1, when the button displaying the terms of service text on the display installed on vehicle 50 is pressed, in step S2, information processing device 20 sends the VIN and language settings of vehicle 50 to relay server 35 via network 40. The term "VIN" is an abbreviation for "Vehicle Identification Number." The language settings correspond to information about the language currently used by user 11 for text display. Relay server 35 receives the VIN and language settings from information processing device 20.

[0037] In S3, relay server 35 sends the VIN received in S2 to contract management server 36 via network 40. Contract management server 36 receives the VIN from relay server 35.

[0038] In S4, the contract management server 36 searches the database 34 to identify the contracting country name and brand name corresponding to the VIN received in S3. The contracting country name corresponds to information about the contracting country associated with vehicle 50. The contract management server 36 sends the identified contracting country name and brand name to the relay server 35 via network 40. The relay server 35 receives the contracting country name and brand name from the contract management server 36.

[0039] In S5, relay server 35 sends the signatory country name and brand name received in S4, as well as the language setting received in S2, to network server 37 via network 40. Network server 37 receives the signatory country name, brand name, and language setting from relay server 35.

[0040] In S6, the web server 37 determines the language of the terms of service text to be displayed on the website corresponding to the signatory country name and brand name received in S5, based on the language settings received in S5. When the website does not have any terms of service text corresponding to the combination of the signatory country name, brand name, and language settings—that is, when the website does not support the language currently used by user 11 for text display—the web server 37 determines to display the terms of service text in the default language of the signatory country. For example, when the signatory country is France and the language currently used by user 11 for text display is Estonian, the web server 37 may determine to display the French terms of service text in French. When the website supports only one language, regardless of the language settings, the web server 37 determines to display the terms of service text in the supported language. When the website supports more than one language (including the language currently used by user 11 for text display), the web server 37 determines to display the terms of service text corresponding to the language settings. The web server 37 then sends the determined terms of service text as the content of the terms of service display website to the information processing device 20 via the network 40. When the information processing device 20 receives the terms of service text from the network server 37 via the network 40, the information processing device 20 automatically displays the received terms of service text on the display using the web browser function.

[0041] The website displaying the terms of service that the information processing device 20 needs to connect to may vary depending on the brand name. Each website displaying the terms of service can store the text of the terms of service in all countries and all languages. That is, in S5, the relay server 35 can send the name of the contracting country received in S4 and the language setting received in S2 to the web server 37 corresponding to the brand name received in S4 via the network 40.

[0042] Instead of network server 37, relay server 35 can determine the language of the terms of service text to be displayed on the service terms display website corresponding to the signatory country name and brand name received in S4, based on the language settings received in S2. Relay server 35 can then instruct network server 37 to send the determined terms of service text as content of the terms of service display website to information processing device 20.

[0043] As described above, in this embodiment, the server device 30 identifies the service terms text to be displayed by referring to information about the contracting country and brand obtained from contract information acquired using the VIN and information about the language obtained from the user settings of the in-vehicle device. Therefore, appropriate service terms text can be presented without requiring manual selection by the user 11.

[0044] Reference Figure 1 The configuration of the information processing apparatus 20 according to this embodiment is described.

[0045] The information processing device 20 includes a control unit 21, a storage unit 22, and a communication unit 23.

[0046] The control unit 21 includes at least one processor, at least one programmable circuit, at least one special-purpose circuit, or any combination thereof. The processor is a general-purpose processor such as a CPU or GPU, or a special-purpose processor dedicated to specific processing. The term "CPU" is an abbreviation for "Central Processing Unit." The term "GPU" is an abbreviation for "Graphics Processing Unit." The programmable circuit is, for example, an FPGA. The term "FPGA" is an abbreviation for "Field-Programmable Gate Array." The special-purpose circuit is, for example, an ASIC. The term "ASIC" is an abbreviation for "Application-Specific Integrated Circuit." The control unit 21 performs processing related to the operation of the information processing device 20, and simultaneously controls various units of the information processing device 20.

[0047] Storage cell 22 includes at least one semiconductor memory, at least one magnetic memory, at least one optical memory, or any combination thereof. The semiconductor memory is, for example, RAM, ROM, or flash memory. The term "RAM" is an abbreviation for "random access memory." The term "ROM" is an abbreviation for "read-only memory." RAM is, for example, SRAM or DRAM. The term "SRAM" is an abbreviation for "static random access memory." The term "DRAM" is an abbreviation for "dynamic random access memory." ROM is, for example, EEPROM. The term "EEPROM" is an abbreviation for "electrically erasable programmable read-only memory." Flash memory is, for example, SSD. The term "SSD" is an abbreviation for "solid-state drive." Magnetic memory is, for example, HDD. The term "HDD" is an abbreviation for "hard disk drive." Storage cell 22 serves as, for example, a primary storage device, an auxiliary storage device, or a cache memory. Storage unit 22 stores information to be used for the operation of information processing device 20 and information obtained through the operation of information processing device 20.

[0048] Communication unit 23 includes at least one communication module. The communication module is, for example, a module that supports mobile communication standards such as LTE, 4G, or 5G, or wireless LAN communication standards such as IEEE 802.11. The term "LTE" is an abbreviation for "Long Term Evolution." The term "4G" is an abbreviation for "fourth generation." The term "5G" is an abbreviation for "fifth generation." The term "IEEE" is an abbreviation for "Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers." Communication unit 23 communicates with server device 30. Communication unit 23 receives information to be used for the operation of information processing device 20 and sends information obtained through the operation of information processing device 20.

[0049] The functions of the information processing device 20 are implemented by executing the information processing program according to this embodiment using a processor that serves as a control unit 21. That is, the functions of the information processing device 20 are implemented by software. The information processing program enables the computer to function as the information processing device 20 by causing the computer to perform operations on the information processing device 20. In other words, the computer functions as the information processing device 20 by executing operations on the information processing device 20 according to the information processing program.

[0050] Some or all of the functions of the information processing device 20 can be implemented by a programmable circuit or a dedicated circuit used as the control unit 21. That is, some or all of the functions of the information processing device 20 can be implemented by hardware.

[0051] Reference Figure 1 The configuration of the server device 30 according to this embodiment is described.

[0052] Server device 30 includes control unit 31, storage unit 32 and communication unit 33.

[0053] The control unit 31 includes at least one processor, at least one programmable circuit, at least one special-purpose circuit, or any combination thereof. The processor is a general-purpose processor such as a CPU or GPU, or a special-purpose processor dedicated to specific processing. The programmable circuit is, for example, an FPGA. The special-purpose circuit is, for example, an ASIC. The control unit 31 performs processing related to the operation of the server device 30, while simultaneously controlling various units of the server device 30.

[0054] Storage unit 32 includes at least one semiconductor memory, at least one magnetic memory, at least one optical memory, or any combination thereof. The semiconductor memory is, for example, RAM, ROM, or flash memory. RAM is, for example, SRAM or DRAM. ROM is, for example, EEPROM. Flash memory is, for example, SSD. Magnetic memory is, for example, HDD. Storage unit 32 serves as, for example, a primary storage device, an auxiliary storage device, or a cache memory. Storage unit 32 stores information to be used for the operation of server device 30 and information obtained through the operation of server device 30.

[0055] Communication unit 33 includes at least one communication module. The communication module is, for example, a module that supports wired LAN communication standards such as Ethernet (registered trademark) or wireless LAN communication standards such as IEEE 802.11. Communication unit 33 communicates with information processing device 20. Communication unit 33 receives information to be used for the operation of server device 30 and transmits information obtained through the operation of server device 30.

[0056] The functions of server device 30 are implemented by executing a server program according to this embodiment using a processor that serves as control unit 31. That is, the functions of server device 30 are implemented by software. The server program enables a computer to function as server device 30 by causing the computer to perform operations on server device 30. In other words, the computer functions as server device 30 by performing operations on server device 30 according to the server program.

[0057] Some or all of the functions of the server device 30 can be implemented by a programmable circuit or a dedicated circuit used as the control unit 31. That is, some or all of the functions of the server device 30 can be implemented by hardware.

[0058] Programs, such as information processing programs or server programs, can be stored on non-transitory computer-readable media. Examples of non-transitory computer-readable media include flash memory, magnetic recording devices, optical discs, magneto-optical recording media, or ROM. The program is distributed, for example, by sale, transfer, or lease of portable media such as SD cards, DVDs, or CD-ROMs containing the program. The term "SD" is an abbreviation for "Secure Digital." The term "DVD" is an abbreviation for "digital versatile disc." The term "CD-ROM" is an abbreviation for "compact disc read-only memory." Programs can be distributed by storing them in the memory of a server and transferring them from the server to other computers. The program can be offered as a program product.

[0059] For example, a computer may temporarily store a program stored on a portable medium or a program transferred from a server in main storage. The computer then instructs its processor to read the program stored in main storage and execute processing based on the read program. The computer can directly read a program from a portable medium and execute processing based on that program. Whenever a program is transferred from a server to the computer, the computer can execute processing based on the received program. This processing can be performed by a so-called ASP service, where functionality is achieved solely through executing instructions and retrieving results, without transferring the program from the server to the computer. The term "ASP" is an abbreviation for "Application Service Provider." A program includes information to be provided for processing by an electronic computer and is equivalent to a program. For example, data that is not a direct command to the computer but has attributes defining the computer's processing corresponds to "information equivalent to a program."

[0060] Reference Figure 5 The operation of the server apparatus 30 according to this embodiment will be described. (Refer to...) Figure 6The operation of the information processing apparatus 20 according to this embodiment is described below. The operation described below corresponds to the text selection method according to this embodiment. That is, the text selection method according to this embodiment includes... Figure 5 Steps S101 to S108 shown are Figure 6 Steps S201 to S206 are shown.

[0061] exist Figure 6 In S201, the control unit 21 of the information processing device 20 sends the vehicle 50 identifier to the server device 30 via the communication unit 23. Figure 4 In the example shown, the control unit 21 sends the VIN of the vehicle 50 to the server device 30 via the communication unit 23.

[0062] exist Figure 5 In S101, the control unit 31 of the server device 30 receives data from the information processing device 20 via the communication unit 33. Figure 6 The identifier sent in S201. Figure 4 In the example shown, the control unit 31 receives information from the information processing device 20 via the communication unit 33. Figure 6 The VIN sent in S201.

[0063] exist Figure 6 In S202, the control unit 21 of the information processing device 20 sends the language settings for text display set in the information processing device 20 to the server device 30 via the communication unit 23. Figure 4 In the example shown, the control unit 21 sends the language settings of the vehicle 50 to the server device 30 via the communication unit 23.

[0064] exist Figure 5 In S102, the control unit 31 of the server device 30 receives data from the information processing device 20 via the communication unit 33. Figure 6 The settings sent in S202. Figure 4 In the example shown, the control unit 31 receives information from the information processing device 20 via the communication unit 33. Figure 6 The language settings are sent in S202.

[0065] In this embodiment, when the control unit 21 of the information processing device 20 receives user input via the input device 52 for setting the language used for text display, the control unit 21 displays various texts on the display in the set language, excluding the received terms of service text. Figure 4In the example shown, control unit 21 displays a screen on the monitor that includes a user interface for selecting the language to be used for text display. When control unit 21 receives touch input via the touchscreen indicating that German is selected on the screen displayed on the monitor, control unit 21 sets the language to be used for text display to German. From then on, when user 11 uses various systems such as the multimedia system or various functions such as connectivity services in vehicle 50, control unit 21 displays various texts such as menus, guides, or notices in German on the monitor.

[0066] exist Figure 5 In S103, the control unit 31 of the server device 30 retrieves contract information from the database 34 corresponding to the identifier received in S101. Figure 4 In the example shown, control unit 31 searches database 34.

[0067] exist Figure 5 In S104, the control unit 31 of the server device 30 identifies the region associated with the vehicle 50 based on the contract information obtained in S103. In this embodiment, the region associated with the vehicle 50 is the contracting country of the vehicle 50. Figure 4 In the example shown, control unit 31 identifies the contracting country name and brand name corresponding to the VIN received in S101.

[0068] exist Figure 5 In S105, the control unit 31 of the server device 30 refers to the settings received in S102 and determines whether the service terms text corresponding to the region identified in S104 includes service terms text corresponding to the language set in the information processing device 20 for text display. Figure 4 In the example shown, the control unit 31 refers to the language setting received in S102 and determines whether the terms of service display website corresponding to the contracting country name and brand name identified in S104 supports the language currently used by user 11 for text display.

[0069] When in Figure 5 If step S105 determines that the terms of service text includes a language corresponding to the language set in the information processing device 20 for text display, step S106 is executed. Conversely, if it determines that the terms of service text does not include a language corresponding to the language set in the information processing device 20 for text display, step S107 is executed. Figure 4 In the example shown, if the terms of service corresponding to the contracting country name and brand name identified in S104 indicate that the website supports the language currently used by user 11 for text display, step S106 is executed. Otherwise, step S107 is executed.

[0070] exist Figure 5 In S106, the control unit 31 of the server device 30 selects a service terms text corresponding to the language set in the information processing device 20 for text display as the first service terms text. Figure 4 In the example shown, control unit 31 determines to display the terms of service text on the terms of service display website corresponding to the contracting country name and brand name identified in S104, in the language currently used by user 11 for text display. After S106, step S108 is executed.

[0071] exist Figure 5 In S107, the control unit 31 of the server device 30 selects one of the service terms texts corresponding to the region identified in S104 as the second service terms text, according to a pre-set priority order. Figure 4 In the example shown, control unit 31 determines to display the terms of service text in the default language of the contracting country on the terms of service display website corresponding to the contracting country name and brand name identified in S104. After S107, step S108 is executed.

[0072] exist Figure 5 In S108, the control unit 31 of the server device 30 sends the first terms of service text to the information processing device 20 via the communication unit 33 when the first terms of service text is selected in S106, or sends the second terms of service text to the information processing device 20 when the second terms of service text is selected in S107. Figure 4 In the example shown, the control unit 31 sends the service terms text determined in S106 or S107 as the content of the service terms display website to the information processing device 20.

[0073] exist Figure 6 In S203, the control unit 21 of the information processing device 20 receives data from the server device 30 via the communication unit 23. Figure 5 The terms of service text sent in S108.

[0074] exist Figure 6 In S204, the control unit 21 of the information processing device 20 displays the service terms text received in S203 on a display screen. For example, the control unit 21 displays a screen including the service terms text received in S203 and a user interface for selecting "agree" or "disagree" on the display screen.

[0075] exist Figure 6In S205, the control unit 21 of the information processing device 20 receives user input indicating whether the user agrees to the terms of use included in the terms of service text displayed in S204 via the input device 52. For example, the control unit 21 receives touch input via a touch screen that selects "agree" or "disagree" on a screen displayed on the monitor.

[0076] When in Figure 6 If user input indicating agreement to the terms of use is received in S205, step S206 is executed. If user input indicating disagreement with the terms of use is received in S205, step S206 is not executed. For example, if "agree" is selected in S205, step S206 is executed. If "disagree" is selected in S205, step S206 is not executed.

[0077] exist Figure 6 In S206, the control unit 21 of the information processing device 20 sends the information collected by the vehicle 50 to the server device 30 via the communication unit 23. The information collected by the vehicle 50 includes one or more of four types of information (i.e., location information, sound information, image information, and vehicle information obtained via the positioning device 55, microphone 54, camera 53, and various sensors 57, respectively).

[0078] The control unit 21 of the information processing device 20 can associate the information collected by the vehicle 50 with various additional information and send the information to the server device 30 via the communication unit 23. The additional information may include, for example, the identifier of the user 11, the identifier of the vehicle 50, or both, the time the information was acquired, the driving condition of the vehicle 50 at the time of acquisition, or the type of information acquired. The information sent to the server device 30, along with the additional information, can be used by the business operator operating the server device 30. Alternatively, the information sent to the server device 30 may be provided to a third party by the business operator operating the server device 30, along with the additional information or with some additional information concealed, and may be used by the third party.

[0079] As described above, in this embodiment, the control unit 31 of the server device 30 selects a service terms text corresponding to the region associated with the vehicle 50 from a plurality of service terms texts, prioritizing those corresponding to the language set in the information processing device 20 for text display. The control unit 31 sends the selected service terms text to the information processing device 20 via the communication unit 33. The control unit 21 of the information processing device 20 receives the sent service terms text from the server device 30 via the communication unit 23. The control unit 21 displays the received service terms text on a display.

[0080] Therefore, according to this embodiment, the terms of service text applicable to user 11 can be automatically displayed. As a result, the convenience for user 11 is improved.

[0081] Reference Figure 7 A variation of the operation of the server device 30 according to this embodiment is described.

[0082] Step S111 and Figure 5 Step S101 is the same, therefore its description will be omitted. Steps S112 and S113 are respectively the same as... Figure 5 Steps S103 and S104 are the same, therefore, their descriptions will be omitted.

[0083] In S114, the control unit 31 of the server device 30 determines how much of the service terms text corresponds to the region identified in S113. Figure 4 In the example shown, control unit 31 determines how many languages ​​the terms of service display website supports, corresponding to the contracting country name and brand name identified in S113.

[0084] If two or more are determined in S114, proceed to step S115. If only one is determined, proceed to step S119. Figure 4 In the example shown, if the terms of service corresponding to the contracting country name and brand name identified in S113 indicate that the website supports more than two languages, step S115 is executed. Otherwise, step S119 is executed.

[0085] In step S115, the control unit 31 of the server device 30 requests the information processing device 20 to send the language settings for text display configured in the information processing device 20 via the communication unit 33. In response to this request, execution is performed. Figure 6 Step S202. That is, in response to a request from server device 30, control unit 21 of information processing device 20 sends the language setting for text display, which is set in information processing device 20, to server device 30 via communication unit 23. Control unit 31 of server device 30 receives the language setting for text display from information processing device 20. Figure 6 The settings sent in S202. Figure 4 In the example shown, the control unit 31 receives information from the information processing device 20 via the communication unit 33. Figure 6 The language setting is sent in S202. After S115, step S116 is executed.

[0086] Steps S116 to S118 are respectively with Figure 5 Steps S105 to S107 are the same, therefore their description will be omitted. After S117, step S120 is executed. Similarly, after S118, step S120 is executed.

[0087] In S119, the control unit 31 of the server device 30 does not request the information processing device 20 to send the language settings for text display set in the information processing device 20. Therefore, it skips... Figure 6 Step S202. The control unit 31 of the server device 30 selects the only service terms text included in the service terms text and corresponding to the region identified in S113 as the third service terms text. Figure 4 In the example shown, control unit 31 determines to display the terms of service text in the only language supported by the website on the terms of service display website corresponding to the contracting country name and brand name identified in S104. After S119, step S120 is executed.

[0088] In S120, the control unit 31 of the server device 30 sends the first terms of service text to the information processing device 20 via the communication unit 33 when the first terms of service text is selected in S117, or when the second terms of service text is selected in S118, or when the third terms of service text is selected in S119. Figure 4 In the example shown, the control unit 31 sends the service terms text determined in S117, S118 or S119 as the content of the service terms display website to the information processing device 20.

[0089] This disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described above. For example, two or more blocks shown in the block diagram may be integrated, or a single block may be divided. Depending on the processing capability of the apparatus performing the steps, or as needed, the steps may be performed in parallel or in a different order, rather than performing two or more steps shown in the flowchart in chronological order as described. Other changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure.

[0090] Some embodiments of this disclosure will be given below. However, it should be noted that the embodiments of this disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0091] Appendix 1 A system includes a server device configured to select a first term of service text corresponding to a region associated with a vehicle from a plurality of term of service texts, each of the plurality of term of service texts corresponding to different combinations of region and language and including terms of use written in the corresponding language for the corresponding region, and to send the selected first term of service text to an information processing device via a network; and the information processing device, installed in the vehicle, configured to display the received first term of service text on a display installed in the vehicle when the first term of service text is received from the server device via the network, and to send one or more of four types of information to the server device in real time via the network when user input indicating user agreement to the terms of use included in the displayed first term of service text is received via an input device installed in the vehicle, the four types of information including location information, sound information, image information, and vehicle information respectively acquired via a positioning device, microphone, camera, and various sensors installed in the vehicle, wherein the server device is configured to preferentially select a term of service text corresponding to a language set in the information processing device for text display as the first term of service text.

[0092] Appendix 2 A server apparatus includes: a communication unit configured to communicate with an information processing device installed in a vehicle; and a processor configured to select from a plurality of service terms texts a first service terms text corresponding to a region associated with the vehicle, each of the plurality of service terms texts corresponding to different combinations of region and language and including terms of use written in the respective language for the respective region, and to send the selected first service terms text to the information processing device via the communication unit, wherein the processor is configured to preferentially select a service terms text corresponding to a language set in the information processing device for text display as the first service terms text.

[0093] Appendix 3 According to the server apparatus described in Appendix 2, the processor is configured to receive an identifier of the vehicle from the information processing device via the communication unit, retrieve contract information corresponding to the received identifier from a database, and identify the region associated with the vehicle based on the retrieved contract information.

[0094] Appendix 4 According to the server apparatus described in Appendix 3, the region associated with the vehicle is the contracting country of the vehicle.

[0095] Appendix 5 According to any one of Appendices 2 to 4, the server apparatus wherein the processor is configured to request the information processing apparatus to send, via the communication unit, the language setting for text display set in the information processing apparatus when there are two or more service terms texts corresponding to the region associated with the vehicle and included in the plurality of service terms texts, and not to request the information processing apparatus to send the language setting for text display set in the information processing apparatus when there is only one service terms text corresponding to the region associated with the vehicle.

[0096] Appendix 6 According to the server apparatus described in Appendix 5, the processor is configured to receive, via the communication unit, the setting of the language for text display set in the information processing device, from the information processing device; when the service terms text corresponding to the language for text display set in the information processing device is included among the plurality of service terms texts corresponding to the region associated with the vehicle, the service terms text corresponding to the language for text display set in the information processing device is selected as the first service terms text; and when the service terms text corresponding to the language for text display set in the information processing device is not included, the first service terms text is selected from the plurality of service terms texts corresponding to the region associated with the vehicle according to a preset priority order.

[0097] Appendix 7 A system comprising a server device and an information processing device according to any one of Appendices 2 to 6.

[0098] Appendix 8 According to the system described in Appendix 7, the information processing device is configured to display the received terms of service text sent by the processor on a display installed in the vehicle when it receives the terms of service text sent from the server device, and to send information collected in the vehicle to the server device when it receives user input indicating user consent to the terms of use included in the displayed terms of service text via an input device installed in the vehicle.

[0099] Appendix 9 According to the system described in Appendix 8, the information collected in the vehicle includes one or more of four types of information, namely, location information, sound information, image information, and vehicle information acquired respectively via a positioning device, microphone, camera, and various sensors installed on the vehicle.

[0100] Appendix 10 An information processing apparatus installed in a vehicle includes: a communication unit configured to communicate with a server device; and a processor configured to, upon receiving via the communication unit from the server device a first term of service text corresponding to a region associated with the vehicle and selected from a plurality of term of service texts, display the received term of service text on a display installed in the vehicle, the plurality of term of service texts each corresponding to different combinations of regions and languages ​​and including terms of use written in the respective language for the respective region; and upon receiving via the communication unit information collected in the vehicle via an input device installed in the vehicle indicating user agreement to the terms of use included in the displayed term of service text, wherein a term of service text corresponding to a language set in the information processing apparatus for text display is preferentially selected as the first term of service text.

[0101] Appendix 11 According to the information processing apparatus described in Appendix 10, the processor is configured to send the vehicle identifier to the server device via the communication unit, and receive from the server device a service terms text corresponding to a region identified based on contract information corresponding to the sent identifier.

[0102] Appendix 12 According to the information processing apparatus described in Appendix 11, the region associated with the vehicle is the contracting country of the vehicle.

[0103] Appendix 13 According to any one of Appendices 10 to 12, the information processing apparatus wherein the processor is configured to, in response to a request from the server apparatus, send via the communication unit to the server apparatus the setting of the language for text display set in the information processing apparatus.

[0104] Appendix 14 According to any one of Appendices 10 to 13, the information processing apparatus wherein the processor is configured to display various texts on the display in the set language other than the received terms of service text when it receives user input via the input device for setting the language for text display.

[0105] Appendix 15 The information processing apparatus according to any one of Appendices 10 to 14, wherein the information collected in the vehicle includes location information obtained via a positioning device installed on the vehicle.

[0106] Appendix 16 The information processing apparatus according to any one of Appendices 10 to 15, wherein the information collected in the vehicle includes sound information acquired via a microphone mounted on the vehicle.

[0107] Appendix 17 The information processing apparatus according to any one of Appendices 10 to 16, wherein the information collected in the vehicle includes image information acquired via a camera mounted on the vehicle.

[0108] Appendix 18 The information processing apparatus according to any one of Appendices 10 to 17, wherein the information collected in the vehicle includes vehicle information acquired via various sensors installed on the vehicle.

[0109] Appendix 19 A system comprising an information processing apparatus and a server apparatus according to any one of Appendices 10 to 18.

[0110] Appendix 20 A vehicle comprising an information processing device according to any one of Appendices 10 to 18.

Claims

1. A system, characterized in that... include: The server device is configured as follows A first term of service text corresponding to the region associated with the vehicle is selected from multiple term of service texts, each term of service text corresponding to a different combination of region and language and including usage terms written in the corresponding language for the corresponding region. The selected first terms of service text is sent to the information processing device via the network; as well as The information processing device, which is installed in the vehicle, is configured to... When the first terms of service text is received from the server device via the network, the received first terms of service text is displayed on a display installed in the vehicle. When a user input indicating agreement to the terms of use included in the displayed first terms of service text is received via an input device installed in the vehicle, one or more of four types of information are sent in real time to the server device via the network. These four types of information include location information, sound information, image information, and vehicle information acquired respectively via a positioning device, microphone, camera, and various sensors installed in the vehicle. The server device is configured to preferentially select a service terms text that corresponds to the language used for text display set in the information processing device as the first service terms text.

2. A server device, characterized in that... include: A communication unit configured to communicate with an information processing device installed in the vehicle; as well as The processor, which is configured as A first term of service text corresponding to the region associated with the vehicle is selected from multiple term of service texts. Each of the multiple term of service texts corresponds to a different combination of region and language and includes usage terms written in the respective language for the corresponding region. The selected first terms of service text is sent to the information processing device via the communication unit, wherein The processor is configured to preferentially select a service terms text that corresponds to the language set in the information processing device for text display as the first service terms text.

3. The server device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The processor is configured to The vehicle identifier is received from the information processing device via the communication unit. Retrieve contract information corresponding to the received identifier from the database, and The region associated with the vehicle is identified based on the acquired contract information.

4. The server device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The region associated with the vehicle is the contracting country of the vehicle.

5. The server device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The processor is configured to When there are two or more terms of service texts corresponding to the region associated with the vehicle and included in the plurality of terms of service texts, the information processing device is requested to send, via the communication unit, the language setting for text display set in the information processing device, and When a terms of service text corresponding to the region associated with the vehicle exists, the information processing device is not requested to send the language setting for text display set in the information processing device.

6. The server apparatus according to claim 5, characterized in that, The processor is configured to The language setting for text display, configured in the information processing device, is received from the information processing device via the communication unit. When the terms of service text corresponding to the language set in the information processing device for text display is included among the plurality of terms of service texts corresponding to the region associated with the vehicle, the terms of service text corresponding to the language set in the information processing device for text display is selected as the first terms of service text, and When the terms of service text corresponding to the language set in the information processing device for text display is not included, the first terms of service text is selected from the plurality of terms of service texts corresponding to the region associated with the vehicle according to a preset priority order.

7. A system, characterized in that... It includes the server device according to any one of claims 2 to 6 and the information processing device.

8. The system according to claim 7, characterized in that, The information processing device is configured to When the service terms text sent by the processor is received from the server device, the received service terms text is displayed on a display installed on the vehicle, and When user input indicating user consent to the terms of use included in the displayed terms of service text is received via an input device installed in the vehicle, the information collected in the vehicle is sent to the server device.

9. The system according to claim 8, characterized in that, The information collected in the vehicle includes one or more of four types of information, namely, location information, sound information, image information, and vehicle information acquired respectively via positioning devices, microphones, cameras, and various sensors installed on the vehicle.

10. An information processing device installed in a vehicle, characterized in that... include: A communication unit configured to communicate with a server device; as well as The processor, which is configured as When a first term of service text, selected from a plurality of term of service texts, corresponding to the region associated with the vehicle, is received from the server device via the communication unit, the received term of service text is displayed on a display installed on the vehicle. The various terms of service texts each correspond to different combinations of regions and languages ​​and include terms of use written in the respective languages ​​for the corresponding regions. When user input indicating agreement to the terms of use included in the displayed terms of service text is received via an input device installed in the vehicle, information collected in the vehicle is sent to the server device via the communication unit, wherein... The service terms text corresponding to the language set in the information processing device for text display is preferentially selected as the first service terms text.

11. The information processing apparatus according to claim 10, characterized in that, The processor is configured to send the vehicle identifier to the server device via the communication unit, and to receive from the server device a service terms text corresponding to a region identified based on contract information corresponding to the sent identifier.

12. The information processing apparatus according to claim 11, characterized in that, The region associated with the vehicle is the contracting country of the vehicle.

13. The information processing apparatus according to claim 10, characterized in that, The processor is configured to, in response to a request from the server device, send via the communication unit to the server device the language setting for text display configured in the information processing device.

14. The information processing apparatus according to claim 10, characterized in that, The processor is configured to display various texts on the display in the set language, other than the received terms of service text, in the set language when it receives user input via the input device for setting the language for text display.

15. The information processing apparatus according to claim 10, characterized in that, The information collected in the vehicle includes location information obtained via a positioning device installed on the vehicle.

16. The information processing apparatus according to claim 10, characterized in that, The information collected in the vehicle includes sound information acquired via a microphone installed on the vehicle.

17. The information processing apparatus according to claim 10, characterized in that, The information collected in the vehicle includes image information acquired via a camera mounted on the vehicle.

18. The information processing apparatus according to claim 10, characterized in that, The information collected in the vehicle includes vehicle information acquired via various sensors installed on the vehicle.

19. A system, characterized in that... It includes the information processing apparatus and the server apparatus according to any one of claims 10 to 18.

20. A vehicle, characterized in that... Includes the information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 10 to 18.

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