Parking lot management apparatus, parking lot management method, and program product

Abstract

A parking lot management device, a parking lot management method, and a program product capable of improving the convenience of a user who wishes to use a parking lot having a plurality of parking frames capable of parking a vehicle. The parking lot management device (100) includes: a destination information acquisition unit (1003) that acquires destination information (M1) indicating a destination of a user; a guide parking frame determination unit (1004) that refers to a storage unit that stores parking frame information indicating an evaluation value for each destination for each parking frame, determines a guide parking frame from among a plurality of parking frames based on the destination information (M1) acquired by the destination information acquisition unit (1003), the guide parking frame being a parking frame in which the evaluation value corresponding to the destination of the user satisfies a prescribed condition; and a communication unit (1001) that transmits guide parking frame information (M2) indicating the guide parking frame determined by the guide parking frame determination unit (1004) to a user terminal (TU) used by the user.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to parking management devices, parking management methods, and program products. Background Technology

[0002] In recent years, there has been a demand to improve transportation safety in order to make cities and human settlements more inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable. From the perspective of improving transportation safety, the development of technologies such as driver assistance systems and autonomous driving technologies is being promoted.

[0003] As an example of driving assistance technology, Patent Document 1 discloses a driving assistance device that identifies landmarks contained in an image received from a vehicle and distributes driving assistance information corresponding to the vehicle's position determined based on a predetermined location where the landmarks are set.

[0004] In addition, Patent Document 2 discloses the following technology: when the user instructs the display of an underground building, the map screen currently displayed is reduced in the height direction of the screen and displayed at the top of the screen, while a three-dimensional image of the instructing underground building is displayed in the lower part of the screen.

[0005] Existing technical documents

[0006] Patent documents

[0007] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2016-197314

[0008] Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2003-166836 Summary of the Invention

[0009] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0010] However, there is room for improvement in the existing technology from the perspective of enhancing the convenience for users who wish to utilize parking lots with multiple parking frames capable of accommodating vehicles.

[0011] This invention provides a parking management device, parking management method, and program product that can improve the convenience for users who wish to utilize parking lots with multiple parking frames for parking vehicles.

[0012] Solution for solving the problem

[0013] One aspect of the present invention provides a parking lot management device that guides users who wish to utilize a parking lot having multiple parking bays capable of parking vehicles to a parking bay determined from the multiple parking bays, wherein,

[0014] The parking management device includes:

[0015] The acquisition unit acquires destination information representing the user's destination;

[0016] A guided parking frame determination unit, which refers to a storage unit storing parking frame information representing the evaluation value of each parking frame for each destination, determines a guided parking frame from the plurality of parking frames based on the destination information obtained by the acquisition unit. This guided parking frame is a parking frame whose evaluation value corresponding to the user's destination meets predetermined conditions.

[0017] The communication unit sends guidance parking frame information, representing the guidance parking frame determined by the guidance parking frame determination unit, to the user terminal used by the user.

[0018] Another aspect of the present invention provides a parking lot management method, which is processed by a computer, wherein the computer guides users who wish to utilize a parking lot having multiple parking bays capable of accommodating vehicles to a parking bay determined from the multiple parking bays, wherein...

[0019] The parking lot management method causes the computer to perform the following processing:

[0020] Obtain destination information representing the user's destination;

[0021] Referring to a storage unit that stores parking frame information representing the rating values ​​of each parking frame for each destination, a guided parking frame is determined from the plurality of parking frames based on the obtained destination information. This guided parking frame is a parking frame whose rating value corresponding to the user's destination meets predetermined conditions.

[0022] The guide parking frame information, indicating the confirmed guide parking frame, is sent to the user terminal used by the user.

[0023] Another aspect of the present invention provides a program product comprising a program that is processed by a computer, the computer guiding a user who wishes to utilize a parking lot having multiple parking bays capable of parking vehicles to a parking bay determined from the multiple parking bays, wherein...

[0024] The program causes the computer to perform the following processing:

[0025] Obtain destination information representing the user's destination;

[0026] Referring to a storage unit that stores parking frame information representing the rating values ​​of each parking frame for each destination, a guided parking frame is determined from the plurality of parking frames based on the obtained destination information. This guided parking frame is a parking frame whose rating value corresponding to the user's destination meets predetermined conditions.

[0027] The guide parking frame information, indicating the confirmed guide parking frame, is sent to the user terminal used by the user.

[0028] Invention Effects

[0029] This invention provides a parking management device, method, and program that improves convenience for users who wish to utilize parking lots with multiple parking bays for parking vehicles. This, in turn, contributes to the development of sustainable transportation systems. Attached Figure Description

[0030] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating an example of a parking assistance system 1 including the parking management device 100 of this embodiment.

[0031] Figure 2 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the hardware structure of the parking management device 100.

[0032] Figure 3 This is a diagram representing an example of parking frame information 102a.

[0033] Figure 4 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the hardware structure of a user terminal (TU).

[0034] Figure 5 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the functional structure of the parking management device 100 and the user terminal TU.

[0035] Figure 6 This is a diagram showing the state of parking lot PA immediately after vehicle V enters the parking lot PA.

[0036] Figure 7 This is a diagram showing the parking situation of vehicle V parked in parking space PA with parking frame Fp.

[0037] Figure 8 This is a diagram showing an example of a questionnaire screen Ga displayed on a user terminal TU.

[0038] Figure 9 This is a diagram showing an example of updating parking frame information 102a.

[0039] Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the processing performed by the parking management device 100.

[0040] Figure 11 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the functional structure of the parking management device 100 and the vehicle V in the first modified example.

[0041] Figure 12 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the functional structure of the parking management device 100, vehicle V, and smartphone TUb in the second variation.

[0042] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0043] 1. Parking Assist System

[0044] 100 Parking Management Device

[0045] 102 Memory (Storage Section)

[0046] 102a Parking Frame Information

[0047] 1001 Ministry of Communications

[0048] 1002 Entry and Exit Inspection Department

[0049] 1003 Destination Information Acquisition Department (Acquisition Department)

[0050] 1004 Guiding Parking Frame Determination Section

[0051] Questionnaire Generation Department 1006

[0052] 1007 Parking Frame Information Update Department

[0053] De Destination

[0054] FA facilities

[0055] Fp parking frame

[0056] Gp Guided Parking Frame

[0057] PA parking lot

[0058] M1 Destination Information

[0059] M2 Guided Parking Frame Information

[0060] M3 Questionnaire Information

[0061] M4 Response Results Information

[0062] RV rating

[0063] TU User Terminal

[0064] TUa Navigation device (equipment)

[0065] TUb Smartphone (Portable Terminal)

[0066] U User

[0067] V. Vehicle. Detailed Implementation

[0068] Hereinafter, embodiments of the parking management device, parking management method, and program product of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The drawings are viewed from the orientation indicated by the reference numerals. Furthermore, the following embodiments do not limit the present invention, and all elements described in the following embodiments are not limited to those essential to the present invention. Additionally, hereafter, the same or similar reference numerals are sometimes used to refer to the same or similar elements, and their descriptions are omitted or simplified.

[0069] [1. Parking Assist System]

[0070] Figure 1 The parking assistance system 1 shown is configured, for example, as a user terminal TU used by a user U (vehicle V) and a parking management device 100. It assists the vehicle V in parking in a parking lot PA of a facility FA. The parking management device 100 is implemented by a server (i.e., a computer) installed in a facility FA with multiple shops, such as a shopping mall, or a data center. Here, the parking lot PA is, for example, a relatively large parking lot with multiple parking frames (in other words, parking spaces) Fp capable of accommodating vehicles V as four-wheeled cars.

[0071] Specifically, in the parking assistance system 1, the parking management device 100 and the user terminal TU are configured to communicate with each other via a communication network NET. The communication network NET is, for example, a mobile communication network such as so-called "4G" or "5G", Wi-Fi (registered trademark), Bluetooth (registered trademark), BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) or LPWA (Low Power Wide Area) wireless communication network.

[0072] The user terminal TU is, for example, a navigation device TUa installed in vehicle V or a smartphone TUb used by user U. Here, the navigation device TUa is an example of a device installed in vehicle V used by user U. The smartphone TUb is an example of a portable terminal of user U capable of communicating with vehicle V.

[0073] The information exchanged between the parking management device 100 and the user terminal TU includes, for example, destination information M1, parking guidance frame information M2, questionnaire information M3, and response result information M4. These information M1 to M4 will be explained in detail later.

[0074] The parking management device 100 communicates with the user terminal TU of a user U who wishes to use the parking lot PA, guiding the user U to a parking frame Fp corresponding to a destination set by the user U (e.g., a shop within facility FA). This allows the vehicle V to be parked in an appropriate parking frame Fp that takes the user U's destination into account, thus improving the user U's convenience. In other words, the parking management device 100 can also be described as a parking assistance device that assists in parking in an appropriate parking frame Fp, taking the user U's destination into account.

[0075] The parking management device 100 is configured, for example, to communicate with a camera CA installed in the parking lot PA, in addition to the user terminal TU. Furthermore, the parking management device 100 is configured to monitor the current status of the parking lot PA, such as when a vehicle V enters the parking lot PA, when the vehicle V is parked in a parking frame Fp, and which parking frame Fp is vacant, through images from the camera CA.

[0076] [2. Parking management device]

[0077] like Figure 2 As shown, the parking management device 100 includes, for example, a processor 101, a memory 102, and a communication I / F (Interface) 103. These structural components of the parking management device 100 are interconnected via a bus 104.

[0078] The processor 101 is responsible for the overall control of the parking management device 100. The processor 101 is implemented, for example, by a CPU (Central Processing Unit), MCU (Micro Controller Unit), or MPU (Micro Processor Unit). In addition, the processor 101 may also have multiple cores.

[0079] Memory 102 is, for example, a storage unit having a non-transitory storage medium such as ROM (Read Only Memory), RAM (Random Access Memory), and flash ROM. For example, flash ROM and ROM store various programs, while RAM is used as the working area of ​​processor 101. By loading the program stored in memory 102 into processor 101, processor 101 performs coded processing. The program stored in memory 102 may include the program of the present invention. Additionally, memory 102 can store, for example, references. Figure 3 The parking frame information 102a is described later.

[0080] The communication I / F (Interface) 103 is connected to the communication network NET, and is connected to external devices (such as user terminals TU) via the communication network NET. Moreover, the communication I / F 103 serves as the interface between the communication network NET and the parking management device 100, controlling the input and output of data from external devices.

[0081] [3. Parking frame information]

[0082] Figure 3 The parking frame information 102a shown represents the location of each parking frame Fp in the parking lot PA and the rating value RV of each parking frame Fp for each destination De. Here, the destination De is, for example, a shop located within the facility FA. That is, the parking frame information 102a can also be described as representing the rating value RV of each parking frame Fp for each shop located within the facility FA.

[0083] For example, Figure 3 The parking frame information 102a shown indicates that parking frames A in parking lot PA are located at positions Xa and Ya. The evaluation value RV of parking frame A for store α is 100, the evaluation value RV for store β is 50, and the evaluation value RV for store γ is 20. Additionally, Figure 3 The parking frame information 102a shown indicates that the parking frame B of parking lot PA is located at Xb and Yb. The evaluation value RV of parking frame B for store α is 65, the evaluation value RV for store β is 10, and the evaluation value RV for store γ is 10.

[0084] Furthermore, the rating value RV in the parking frame information 102a is set, for example, by statistically processing user ratings obtained through a questionnaire described later. In other words, the rating value RV represents the level of evaluation from users who utilized the parking lot PA. The setting or updating of the rating value RV can be performed manually by the administrator managing the parking lot management device 100, but from the viewpoint of reducing the effort expended by the administrator, it is preferable that the parking lot management device 100 performs it automatically.

[0085] [4. User Terminal]

[0086] like Figure 4 As shown, a user terminal TU may include, for example, a processor 201, a memory 202, a communication I / O device 203, an input device 204, a display 205, and a speaker 206. These components of the user terminal TU are connected via a bus 207.

[0087] Processor 201 is responsible for the overall control of the user terminal (TU). Processor 201 is implemented, for example, by a CPU, MCU, or MPU. Furthermore, processor 201 may also have multiple cores.

[0088] The memory 202 is, for example, a storage unit having non-transitory storage media such as ROM, RAM, and flash ROM. For example, flash ROM and ROM store various programs, and RAM is used as the working area of ​​the processor 201. By loading the program stored in the memory 202 into the processor 201, the processor 201 performs coded processing.

[0089] The communication I / F203 is connected to the communication network NET, and is connected to external devices (such as the parking management device 100) via the communication network NET. Moreover, the communication I / F203 serves as the interface between the communication network NET and the user terminal TU, controlling the input and output of data from external devices.

[0090] Input device 204 has keys for inputting text, numbers, various indicators, etc., for data input. Input device 204 can be a touch panel type input pad, numeric keys, or a keyboard, mouse, etc. In addition, input device 204 may also include a sound input device such as a microphone that receives sound and converts it into electrical signals.

[0091] The display 205 is a display device capable of displaying documents, images, etc., including cursors, icons, toolboxes, and link buttons. The display 205 is implemented, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) or an organic EL (electroluminescence) display. The speaker 206 converts electrical signals into sound and outputs sound.

[0092] [5. Example of the functional structure of parking management devices and user terminals]

[0093] (Parking lot management device)

[0094] like Figure 5 As shown, the parking management device 100 includes a communication unit 1001, an entry / exit detection unit 1002, a destination information acquisition unit 1003, a guided parking frame determination unit 1004, a parking frame usage determination unit 1005, a questionnaire generation unit 1006, and a parking frame information update unit 1007. The communication unit 1001 is implemented, for example, via a communication I / F 103. The entry / exit detection unit 1002, the destination information acquisition unit 1003, the guided parking frame determination unit 1004, the parking frame usage determination unit 1005, the questionnaire generation unit 1006, and the parking frame information update unit 1007 are implemented either by a processor 101 executing a program stored in a memory 102, or via a communication I / F 103.

[0095] The communication unit 1001 communicates with the user terminal TU via the communication network NET. For example, the communication unit 1001 receives destination information M1, response result information M4, etc., which will be described later, from the user terminal TU. In addition, the communication unit 1001 sends parking guidance frame information M2, questionnaire information M3, etc., which will be described later, to the user terminal TU.

[0096] The entry / exit detection unit 1002 detects when user U's vehicle V enters the parking lot PA based on images from cameras CA installed in the parking lot PA. Furthermore, the entry / exit detection unit 1002 can also detect when user U's vehicle V leaves the parking lot PA.

[0097] The destination information acquisition unit 1003 acquires destination information M1, representing the destination De of user U (in other words, user U who wishes to use parking lot PA), from the user terminal TU of the vehicle V entering parking lot PA. The destination information acquisition unit 1003 acquires the destination information M1 via the communication unit 1001.

[0098] The parking frame determination unit 1004 refers to the parking frame information 102a stored in the memory 102, etc., and based on the destination information M1 obtained by the destination information acquisition unit 1003, determines from the parking frames Fp of the parking lot PA that the evaluation value RV corresponding to the user U's destination De meets the prescribed conditions (e.g., 50 or more), that is, the guided parking frame Gp. Here, the prescribed conditions can be determined by the manager of the parking lot management device 100, for example.

[0099] More specifically, when the entry / exit detection unit 1002 detects that user U's vehicle V has entered the parking lot PA, the parking frame determination unit 1004 determines the parking frame Fp where the evaluation value RV meets the specified conditions and no other vehicle different from user U's vehicle V is parked there, as the parking frame Gp. The parking frame information M2 indicating the parking frame Gp determined by the parking frame determination unit 1004 is sent to the user terminal TU via the communication unit 1001.

[0100] The parking frame determination unit 1005 determines the parking frame Fp where user U's vehicle V is actually parked based on images from a camera CA installed in the parking lot PA.

[0101] The questionnaire generation unit 1006 generates a questionnaire for user U to evaluate a parking guidance frame Gp that guides user U to their destination De. The questionnaire generation unit 1006 can generate the questionnaire either when user U's vehicle V is parked at any parking frame Fp, including the parking guidance frame Gp, or before parking at the parking frame Fp. Furthermore, the questionnaire generation unit 1006 can generate the questionnaire based on a request from user U, or before receiving a request from user U. That is, there is no particular limitation on when the questionnaire generation unit 1006 generates the questionnaire.

[0102] Alternatively, the questionnaire generation unit 1006 can also generate a questionnaire based on the actions of the vehicle V. In this case, the questionnaire generation unit 1006 can also generate different questionnaires based on the actions of the vehicle V before parking at any parking frame Fp, including the guide parking frame Gp. For example, if the guide parking frame Gp is ​​not suitable for the size of the vehicle V, or if there are some inconveniences with the guide parking frame Gp, the vehicle V may sometimes change its actions while parking at the guide parking frame Gp (e.g., stop parking at the guide parking frame Gp and drive to another parking frame Fp). In such a case, the questionnaire generation unit 1006 can also generate a questionnaire asking about the inconveniences of the guide parking frame Gp, which is used to park the vehicle V at the parking frame Fp.

[0103] Additionally, for example, although the guide parking frame Gp is ​​a parking frame Fp that is relatively close to the entrance of facility FA, ​​if the parking frame Fp (i.e., the guide parking frame Gp) is separated from the entrance of facility FA by a fence or the like, the user U would have to take a significant detour to reach the entrance of facility FA if parking at the parking frame Fp. In this case, vehicle V might drive to another parking frame Fp before parking at the guide parking frame Fp. In such a situation, the questionnaire generation unit 1006 could also generate a questionnaire asking about the inconveniences of parking at the guide parking frame Gp.

[0104] Furthermore, for example, if vehicle V is parked directly in the parking guide frame GP, it can be assumed that the parking guide frame GP does not present any particular problem. In such a case, the questionnaire generation unit 1006 can also generate a questionnaire from user U to obtain feedback on the ease of use of the parking guide frame GP.

[0105] The questionnaire information M3, generated by the questionnaire generation unit 1006, is sent to the user terminal TU via the communication unit 1001. Furthermore, for an example of a questionnaire generated by the questionnaire generation unit 1006, please refer to... Figure 8 This will be described later.

[0106] The parking frame information update unit 1007 updates the parking frame information 102a stored in the memory 102 based on the response result information M4 received by the communication unit 1001. Here, the response result information M4 represents the information indicating the response result of user U to the questionnaire generated by the questionnaire generation unit 1006.

[0107] (User terminal)

[0108] like Figure 5 As shown, the user terminal TU includes a communication unit 2001, an input unit 2002, and a display unit 2003. The communication unit 2001 is implemented, for example, via a communication I / F 203. The input unit 2002 is implemented, for example, via an input device 204. The display unit 2003 is implemented, for example, via a display 205.

[0109] The communication unit 2001 communicates with the parking management device 100 via the communication network NET. For example, the communication unit 2001 receives parking guidance frame information M2, questionnaire information M3, etc. from the parking management device 100. In addition, the communication unit 2001 sends destination information M1, response result information M4, etc. to the parking management device 100.

[0110] The input unit 2002 accepts various input operations from the user U. These operations include, for example, specifying the destination De, and inputting the response to the questionnaire information M3 received by the user terminal TU. The destination information M1 indicating the destination De and the response information M4 indicating the response to the questionnaire received by the input unit 2002 are transmitted to the parking management device 100 via the communication unit 2001.

[0111] The display unit 2003 displays various screens. Among the screens displayed by the display unit 2003 are, for example, a screen that prompts (i.e. guides) the user U with the guidance parking frame information M2, and a questionnaire screen Ga (described later) based on the questionnaire information M3.

[0112] Furthermore, by providing a touch panel display TD in the user terminal TU that functions as both an input device 204 and a display 205, the functions of the input unit 2002 and the display unit 2003 can be realized through this touch panel display TD. In the following description, it is assumed that the user terminal TU has a touch panel display TD, on which a questionnaire screen Ga, etc., is displayed.

[0113] [6. Examples of operation of parking management devices and user terminals]

[0114] Next, refer to Figures 6 to 9 An example of an operation of the parking management device 100 and the user terminal TU will be explained.

[0115] (Guide to determine the parking frame)

[0116] Figure 6 This shows the status of parking lot PA immediately after user U's vehicle V enters parking lot PA. Figure 6 In the example shown, the destination De of vehicle V is set as shop α within facility FA. Furthermore, within facility FA, ​​a first entrance X and a second entrance Y, serving as entry points into facility FA, ​​are respectively connected to parking lot PA. When user U travels from parking lot PA to shop α, which is the destination De, it is more convenient to enter facility FA through the first entrance X, which is closer to shop α than the second entrance Y.

[0117] In this situation, the parking management device 100, based on the destination information M1 received from the user terminal TU of the user U of vehicle V, refers to... Figure 3 The parking frame information 102a shown identifies parking frame A (Fp) as the guiding parking frame Gp, where the evaluation value RV for store α meets the specified conditions and no other vehicles are parked there. Then, the parking management device 100 guides user U to parking frame A, which is identified as the guiding parking frame Gp. Thus, user U is guided to parking frame A, which is considered the most convenient parking frame for user U to travel to store α among the currently available parking frames Fp in parking lot PA.

[0118] Thus, according to this embodiment, in a setting with multiple stores (in) Figure 6 In the example shown, among the multiple parking frames Fp in the parking lot PA corresponding to the facility FA of stores α, β, and γ, user U is guided to the parking frame Fp (in this case, parking frame A) that has the highest rating RV corresponding to user U's destination De and is not occupied by other vehicles. Therefore, by assisting user U in parking at the appropriate guidance parking frame Gp that takes into account the current status of the store (in this case, store α) as user U's destination De and each parking frame Fp, the convenience of user U can be improved.

[0119] (Generation and sending of questionnaire information)

[0120] Figure 7 The image shows the status of user U's vehicle V parked in parking frame A. After determining the actual parking frame Fp where user U's vehicle V is parked, the parking management device 100 generates a questionnaire for user U to evaluate the guided parking frame Gp. Then, the parking management device 100 sends the questionnaire information M3, representing the generated questionnaire, to the user terminal TU. This prompts user U to evaluate the guided parking frame Gp, which guides user U to their destination De, and allows updating of the parking frame information 102a based on this evaluation.

[0121] For example, the parking management device 100 sends questionnaire information M3 to the user terminal TU before user U gets off vehicle V in parking lot PA, when user U gets off vehicle V in parking lot PA and then gets off vehicle V again, or after arriving at user U's destination De (e.g., shop α). Thus, the questionnaire information M3 can be sent to the user terminal TU at a time when it is presumed that user U's evaluation of the guided parking frame Gp has been determined. Therefore, the questionnaire response results can be obtained from user U whose evaluation of the guided parking frame Gp has been determined.

[0122] However, if user U's vehicle V is parked in a parking frame Fp that is different from the guide parking frame Gp, the guide parking frame Gp may not be a suitable parking frame Fp for user U's destination De. Therefore, the parking management device 100 can also generate a questionnaire (i.e., questionnaire information M3) when user U's vehicle V is parked in a parking frame Fp that is different from the guide parking frame Gp. In this way, if the guide parking frame Gp may not be a suitable parking frame Fp for user U, the parking frame information 102a can be updated based on user U's evaluation.

[0123] On the other hand, when user U's vehicle V is parked in the guide parking frame Gp, it is highly likely that the guide parking frame Gp is ​​a suitable parking frame Fp for user U's destination De. Therefore, the parking management device 100 can also generate a questionnaire based on a request from user U when user U's vehicle V is parked in the guide parking frame Gp. As an example, in this case, the parking management device 100 can also generate a questionnaire only when it receives a questionnaire generation request based on user U's operation from user terminal TU. In this way, the questionnaire information M3 can be avoided by not sending it to user terminal TU of user U who does not want to answer the questionnaire, thereby reducing the annoyance of user U who does not want to answer the questionnaire.

[0124] (Questionnaire screen)

[0125] Figure 8 An example of a questionnaire screen Ga displayed on the touch panel display TD of the user terminal TU is shown. For example, after receiving questionnaire information M3 from the parking management device 100, the user terminal TU, based on the received questionnaire information M3, will... Figure 8 The example questionnaire screen Ga is displayed on the touch panel display TD.

[0126] exist Figure 8The questionnaire screen Ga shown has the following features: a first checkbox CB1 for selecting "Good" as the evaluation of the parking guide frame Gp guided by the parking management device 100; a second checkbox CB2 for selecting "Bad" as the evaluation; a text box TB for entering the evaluation reason; a message MS that prompts the user U to answer the questionnaire; and a send button SB for receiving the questionnaire answer results.

[0127] In this situation, user U selects either the first checkbox CB1 or the second checkbox CB2 on the questionnaire screen Ga, and enters appropriate evaluation reasons into the text box TB, thereby inputting the questionnaire response results into the user terminal TU. Then, user U can send the response result information M4, representing the questionnaire response results, from the user terminal TU to the parking management device 100 by operating (e.g., tapping) the send button SB.

[0128] (Parking frame information update)

[0129] Figure 9 This illustrates an example of updating parking frame information 102a. The parking management device 100 updates the parking frame information 102a based on the response result information M4 received from the user terminal TU. Furthermore, here, with... Figure 6 Similarly, in the example shown, the destination De of vehicle V is set as store α, and parking frame A serves as a guiding parking frame Gp to guide user U.

[0130] In this situation, the parking management device 100 updates the evaluation value RV corresponding to the parking frame A, which is designated as a guide parking frame Gp, based on the response result information M4 received from the user terminal TU. For example, if the evaluation of parking frame A, which is designated as a guide parking frame Gp, is "good," the parking management device 100 increases the evaluation value RV of parking frame A for store α by a predetermined amount (e.g., +1). On the other hand, if the evaluation of parking frame A, which is designated as a guide parking frame Gp, is "bad," the parking management device 100 decreases the evaluation value RV of parking frame A for store α by a predetermined amount (e.g., -1). For each evaluation, the manager of the parking management device 100 can appropriately decide how much to change the evaluation value RV. In addition, the amount by which the evaluation value RV changes for each evaluation can also vary depending on the reason for the evaluation.

[0131] Thus, according to this embodiment, the parking frame information 102a can be automatically updated based on the evaluation from user U regarding the parking frame Gp that guides user U. This reduces the effort required for the manager of the parking management device 100 to update the parking frame information 102a. Furthermore, by updating only the evaluation value RV corresponding to the parking frame Gp that guides user U, the update area can be minimized, thereby reducing the processing burden when automatically updating the parking frame information 102a.

[0132] [7. Processing performed by parking lot management equipment]

[0133] Next, according to Figure 10 The flowchart shown illustrates an example of the processing performed by the parking management device 100.

[0134] like Figure 10 As shown, the parking management device 100 first determines whether a vehicle V has been detected entering the parking lot PA (step S1). If it is determined that no vehicle V has been detected entering the parking lot PA (step S1: No), the parking management device 100 repeats the process of step S1 until a vehicle V is detected entering the parking lot PA. If it is determined that a vehicle V has been detected entering the parking lot PA (step S1: Yes), the parking management device 100 obtains the destination information M1 from the user terminal TU of the entering vehicle V (step S2).

[0135] Next, based on the obtained destination information M1, the parking management device 100 determines a parking frame Fp, i.e. a guided parking frame Gp, that meets the prescribed conditions for the evaluation value RV corresponding to the user U's destination De (step S3). Then, the parking management device 100 sends the guided parking frame information M2, representing the determined guided parking frame Gp, to the user terminal TU (step S4).

[0136] Next, the parking management device 100 determines whether vehicle V is parked in any parking frame Fp in the parking lot PA (step S5). If it is determined that vehicle V is not parked (step S5: no), the parking management device 100 repeats the process of step S5 until vehicle V is parked.

[0137] If it is determined that vehicle V is parked in any parking frame Fp (step S5: Yes), then the parking management device 100 generates a questionnaire for user U to evaluate the guided parking frame Gp (step S6). Then, the parking management device 100 sends the questionnaire information M3 representing the generated questionnaire to the user terminal TU (step S7).

[0138] Next, the parking management device 100 determines whether it has received the response result information M4 from the user terminal TU (step S8). If it is determined that the response result information M4 has not been received (step S8: no), the parking management device 100 repeats the process of step S8 until the response result information M4 is received.

[0139] If it is determined that the answer result information M4 has been received (step S8: yes), the parking management device 100 updates the parking frame information 102a based on the answer result represented by the received answer result information M4 (step S9) and ends a series of processes.

[0140] As explained above, the parking management device 100 of this embodiment determines a guide parking frame Gp whose evaluation value RV corresponding to the user U's destination De meets predetermined conditions based on the destination information M1 obtained from the user terminal TU of the vehicle V entering the parking lot PA, and sends the guide parking frame information M2 representing the guide parking frame Gp to the user terminal TU of the vehicle V. Thus, the user U can be guided to the guide parking frame Gp whose evaluation value RV corresponding to the user U's destination De meets predetermined conditions.

[0141] When a vehicle V is parked in any parking frame Fp in the parking lot PA, the parking management device 100 sends questionnaire information M3 to the user terminal TU, which is a questionnaire for a guidance parking frame Gp that guides the user U to the destination De. This encourages the user U to evaluate the guidance parking frame Gp.

[0142] Then, the parking management device 100 receives the response result information M4 from the user terminal TU, which represents the response results to the questionnaire, and updates the parking frame information 102a based on the response result, thereby enabling automatic updates of the parking frame information 102a based on the user U's evaluation.

[0143] [8. Variations]

[0144] Next, refer to Figure 11 and Figure 12 The following describes variations of the aforementioned embodiments. Furthermore, the same reference numerals will be used to denote common components as in the aforementioned embodiments, and their descriptions will be omitted or simplified as appropriate.

[0145] (First variation)

[0146] like Figure 11As shown, the vehicle V in the first modified example includes a navigation device TUa serving as a user terminal TU. Furthermore, the vehicle V in the first modified example includes a parking frame determination unit 2004. The parking frame determination unit 2004 determines the actual parking frame Fp of the vehicle V based, for example, on information obtained from a camera or GNSS receiver (Global Navigation Satellite System) installed in the vehicle V. The parking frame determination unit 2004 is implemented, for example, by executing a pre-stored program through a processor (e.g., an ECU (Electronic Control Unit)) not shown in the vehicle V.

[0147] In this case, the parking management device 100 may not need to have a parking frame determination unit 1005. That is, the parking frame determination unit 2004 can determine the parking frame Fp where the actual vehicle V is parked, and send information indicating the determined parking frame Fp to the parking management device 100 through the communication unit 2001.

[0148] Then, the parking management device 100 receives information from the vehicle V indicating the parking frame Fp where the vehicle V is actually parked. For example, if the vehicle V is parked in a parking frame Fp that is different from the guide parking frame Gp, the device can send questionnaire information M3 to the vehicle V (e.g., the navigation device TUa). In this way, in the first variation, similar to the aforementioned implementation, the user U can be prompted to evaluate the guide parking frame Gp, and the parking frame information 102a can be updated based on the user U's evaluation.

[0149] (Second variation)

[0150] Figure 12 The second variation shown differs from the one in that user U's smartphone TUb communicates with parking management device 100 via vehicle V. Figure 11 The first variation shown differs. In this case, the smartphone TUb, for example, includes a communication unit 3001 capable of communicating with the communication unit 2001 of the vehicle V, an input unit 3002 having the same functions as the input unit 2002 of the vehicle V, and a display unit 3003 having the same functions as the display unit 2003 of the vehicle V. Furthermore, in the second variation, the input unit 2002 and the display unit 2003 of the vehicle V can be omitted.

[0151] In this case, the smartphone TUb sends destination information M1 and response result information M4 to the vehicle V, for example, based on the operation of user U received by the input unit 3002. Then, the vehicle V sends the destination information M1 and response result information M4 received from the smartphone TUb to the parking management device 100. Additionally, in this case, the vehicle V receives parking guidance frame information M2 and questionnaire information M3 from the parking management device 100 and sends this information to the smartphone TUb. This achieves the same effects as the aforementioned embodiment or the first variation.

[0152] Furthermore, in the second variation, specifically by sending the questionnaire information M3 to the smartphone TUb, the user U can be prompted to evaluate the parking guidance frame Gp regardless of their location. For example, the smartphone TUb can send location information indicating its location to the parking management device 100 via the vehicle V, and the parking management device 100 can send the questionnaire information M3 to the smartphone TUb via the vehicle V when it is presumed that the user U has arrived at their destination De (e.g., shop α). Thus, after the user U arrives at their destination De, the questionnaire information M3 can be sent to the smartphone TUb. The user U can then answer the questionnaire using the smartphone TUb.

[0153] Thus, according to the second variation, regardless of where user U is, the questionnaire response can be obtained from user U who has determined the evaluation of the guided parking frame Gp.

[0154] As explained above, according to this embodiment and its variations, it is possible to improve the convenience for users U who wish to utilize a parking lot PA having multiple parking frames Fp capable of accommodating vehicles V. This, in turn, contributes to the development of sustainable transportation systems.

[0155] Various embodiments have been described above with reference to the accompanying drawings, but the present invention is not limited to these examples. Those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications or alterations can be conceived within the scope of the technical solutions described, and these modifications or alterations also fall within the technical scope of the present invention. Furthermore, the constituent elements of the above embodiments can be combined arbitrarily without departing from the spirit of the invention.

[0156] Furthermore, the parking management method (in other words, parking assistance method) described in the foregoing embodiments can be implemented by a computer executing a pre-prepared program. This program is stored, for example, in a computer-readable storage medium and executed by reading it from the storage medium. Alternatively, this program can be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium such as flash memory, or via a network such as the Internet.

[0157] This specification and other materials describe at least the following: The components corresponding to the foregoing embodiments are shown in parentheses as examples, but are not limited thereto.

[0158] (1) A parking management device (parking management device 100) that guides a user (user U) who wishes to use a parking lot (parking lot PA) having multiple parking frames (parking frames Fp) capable of parking a vehicle (vehicle V) to a parking frame determined from the multiple parking frames, wherein,

[0159] The parking management device includes:

[0160] The acquisition unit (destination information acquisition unit 1003) acquires destination information (destination information M1) representing the user's destination (destination De).

[0161] A guided parking frame determination unit (guided parking frame determination unit 1004) refers to a storage unit (memory 102) that stores parking frame information (parking frame information 102a) representing the evaluation value of each parking frame for each destination. Based on the destination information obtained by the acquisition unit, it determines a guided parking frame (guided parking frame Gp) from the plurality of parking frames. This guided parking frame is a parking frame whose evaluation value (evaluation value RV) corresponding to the user's destination meets a predetermined condition.

[0162] The communication unit (communication unit 1001) sends the guidance parking frame information (guidance parking frame information M2) indicating the guidance parking frame determined by the guidance parking frame determination unit to the user terminal (user terminal TU) used by the user.

[0163] According to (1), a parking frame that guides the user to a parking space whose rating corresponds to the user's destination and meets the specified conditions is called a guided parking frame. Thus, assisting the user in parking at an appropriate guided parking frame that takes into account the user's destination can improve user convenience.

[0164] (2) The parking management device according to (1), wherein,

[0165] The parking management device also includes a questionnaire generation unit (questionnaire generation unit 1006) for generating questionnaires, which are used by the user to evaluate the guided parking frame that provides guidance based on the user's destination.

[0166] The communication unit sends questionnaire information (questionnaire information M3) representing the questionnaire generated by the questionnaire generation unit to the user terminal.

[0167] According to (2), it is possible to prompt users to evaluate the parking frame that guides them based on their destination, and to update the parking frame information based on the evaluation.

[0168] (3) The parking management device according to (2), wherein,

[0169] When the user's vehicle is parked in a parking frame different from the guide parking frame, the questionnaire generation unit generates the questionnaire.

[0170] If a user's vehicle is parked in a parking frame that is different from the guide parking frame, the guide parking frame may not be the appropriate parking frame for the user's destination. According to (3), in such a case, by prompting the user to evaluate the guide parking frame, the parking frame information can be updated based on that evaluation.

[0171] (4) The parking management device according to (2), wherein,

[0172] The questionnaire generation department generates the questionnaire based on the request from the user.

[0173] According to (4), by generating questionnaires based on user requests, it is possible to reduce the annoyance of users who do not wish to answer the questionnaire.

[0174] (5) The parking management device according to any one of (2) to (4), wherein,

[0175] The parking management device also includes a parking frame information updating unit (parking frame information updating unit 1007), which updates the parking frame information stored in the storage unit.

[0176] The communication unit receives from the user terminal response result information (response result information M4) indicating the user's answers to the questionnaire.

[0177] The parking frame information updating unit updates the parking frame information based on the response result information received by the communication unit.

[0178] According to (5), the parking frame information can be automatically updated based on the user's evaluation of the parking frame that guides the user, thus reducing the effort that the manager of the parking management device needs to spend updating the parking frame information.

[0179] (6) The parking management device according to (5), wherein,

[0180] The parking frame information updating unit updates the evaluation value corresponding to the guided parking frame in the parking frame information based on the response result information received by the communication unit.

[0181] According to (6), it is possible to minimize the update location and reduce the processing burden when automatically updating the parking frame information, and to appropriately update the parking frame information based on the user's evaluation of the guided parking frame.

[0182] (7) The parking management device according to any one of (2) to (4), wherein,

[0183] The communication unit sends the questionnaire information to the user terminal before the user gets off the vehicle in the parking lot, when the user gets off the vehicle in the parking lot and then gets on the vehicle, or after the user arrives at the destination.

[0184] According to (7), questionnaire information can be sent to the user terminal at a time when it is presumed that the user's evaluation of the guided parking frame has been determined. Thus, questionnaire responses can be obtained from users who have determined their evaluation of the guided parking frame.

[0185] (8) The parking management device according to any one of (2) to (4), wherein,

[0186] The parking management device also includes an entry detection unit (entry / exit detection unit 1002), which detects when the user's vehicle enters the parking lot.

[0187] When the entry detection unit detects that the user's vehicle has entered the parking lot, the guiding parking frame determination unit determines the parking frame that meets the specified conditions and is not occupied by any other vehicle different from the user's vehicle as the guiding parking frame.

[0188] According to (8), it can assist users in parking in the appropriate parking frames that take into account the current vacancy status of each parking frame and the user's destination, thus improving the user's convenience.

[0189] (9) The parking management device according to any one of (2) to (4), wherein,

[0190] The user terminal is a device (navigation device TUa) installed in the vehicle, or a portable terminal (smartphone TUb) of the user that can communicate with the vehicle.

[0191] According to (9), the device or portable terminal set up in the vehicle used by the user can prompt and guide the user to the parking frame and questionnaire, thus improving the user's convenience.

[0192] (10) The parking management device according to any one of (2) to (4), wherein,

[0193] The parking lot is a parking lot set up for facilities with multiple shops (shop α, shop β, shop γ).

[0194] The parking frame information represents the rating value of each parking frame for each store.

[0195] The guiding parking frame determining unit determines from the plurality of parking frames the guiding parking frame whose evaluation value corresponds to the store set as the destination among the plurality of stores and meets the prescribed conditions.

[0196] According to (10), users can be assisted to park in appropriate guided parking frames that take into account the store as the user's destination from multiple parking frames set up in parking lots corresponding to facilities with multiple stores, thus improving user convenience.

[0197] (11) A parking lot management method, wherein the computer processes data to guide users who wish to use a parking lot having multiple parking frames capable of parking vehicles to a parking frame determined from the multiple parking frames, wherein,

[0198] The parking lot management method causes the computer to perform the following processing:

[0199] Obtain destination information representing the user's destination;

[0200] Referring to a storage unit that stores parking frame information representing the rating values ​​of each parking frame for each destination, a guided parking frame is determined from the plurality of parking frames based on the obtained destination information. This guided parking frame is a parking frame whose rating value corresponding to the user's destination meets predetermined conditions.

[0201] The guide parking frame information, indicating the confirmed guide parking frame, is sent to the user terminal used by the user.

[0202] According to (11), a parking frame that guides the user to a parking space whose evaluation value corresponds to the user's destination and meets the specified conditions is called a guided parking frame. Thus, by assisting the user in parking at an appropriate guided parking frame that takes into account the user's destination, the user's convenience can be improved.

[0203] (12) A program product comprising a program that is processed by a computer, the program guiding a user who wishes to utilize a parking lot having multiple parking bays capable of parking a vehicle to a parking bay determined from the multiple parking bays, wherein,

[0204] The program causes the computer to perform the following processing:

[0205] Obtain destination information representing the user's destination;

[0206] Referring to a storage unit that stores parking frame information representing the rating values ​​of each parking frame for each destination, a guided parking frame is determined from the plurality of parking frames based on the obtained destination information. This guided parking frame is a parking frame whose rating value corresponding to the user's destination meets predetermined conditions.

[0207] The guide parking frame information, indicating the confirmed guide parking frame, is sent to the user terminal used by the user.

[0208] According to (12), a parking frame that guides the user to a parking space whose rating value corresponds to the user's destination and meets the specified conditions is called a guided parking frame. Thus, assisting the user in parking at an appropriate guided parking frame that takes the user's destination into account can improve the user's convenience.

Claims

1. A parking management device that guides users who wish to utilize a parking lot having multiple parking bays capable of parking vehicles to a parking bay determined from the multiple parking bays, wherein, The parking management device includes: The acquisition unit acquires destination information representing the user's destination; The guided parking frame determination unit refers to a storage unit that stores parking frame information representing the evaluation value of each parking frame for each destination. Based on the destination information obtained by the acquisition unit, the unit determines a guided parking frame from the plurality of parking frames. The guided parking frame is a parking frame whose evaluation value corresponding to the user's destination meets a predetermined condition. as well as The communication unit sends guidance parking frame information, representing the guidance parking frame determined by the guidance parking frame determination unit, to the user terminal used by the user.

2. The parking management device according to claim 1, wherein, The parking management device also includes a questionnaire generation unit for generating questionnaires, which are used by the user to evaluate the guided parking frame that provides guidance based on the user's destination. The communication unit sends questionnaire information to the user terminal, indicating that the questionnaire was generated by the questionnaire generation unit.

3. The parking management device according to claim 2, wherein, When the user's vehicle is parked in a parking frame different from the guide parking frame, the questionnaire generation unit generates the questionnaire.

4. The parking management device according to claim 2, wherein, The questionnaire generation department generates the questionnaire based on the request from the user.

5. The parking management device according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein, The parking management device also includes a parking frame information updating unit that updates the parking frame information stored in the storage unit. The communication unit receives response result information from the user terminal, indicating the user's answers to the questionnaire. The parking frame information updating unit updates the parking frame information based on the response result information received by the communication unit.

6. The parking management device according to claim 5, wherein, The parking frame information updating unit updates the evaluation value corresponding to the guided parking frame in the parking frame information based on the response result information received by the communication unit.

7. The parking management device according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein, The communication unit sends the questionnaire information to the user terminal before the user gets off the vehicle in the parking lot, when the user gets off the vehicle in the parking lot and then gets on the vehicle, or after the user arrives at the destination.

8. The parking management device according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein, The parking management device also includes an entry detection unit, which detects when the user's vehicle enters the parking lot. When the entry detection unit detects that the user's vehicle has entered the parking lot, the guiding parking frame determination unit determines the parking frame that meets the specified conditions and is not occupied by any other vehicle different from the user's vehicle as the guiding parking frame.

9. The parking management device according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein, The user terminal is a device installed in the vehicle or a portable terminal of the user that can communicate with the vehicle.

10. The parking management device according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein, The parking lot mentioned is a parking lot set up for facilities with multiple shops. The parking frame information represents the rating value of each parking frame for each store. The guiding parking frame determining unit determines from the plurality of parking frames the guiding parking frame whose evaluation value corresponds to the store set as the destination among the plurality of stores and meets the prescribed conditions.

11. A parking lot management method, wherein the computer processes data to guide users who wish to utilize a parking lot having multiple parking bays capable of holding vehicles to a parking bay determined from the multiple parking bays, wherein... The parking lot management method causes the computer to perform the following processing: Obtain destination information representing the user's destination; Referring to the storage unit storing parking frame information representing the evaluation value of each parking frame for each destination, a guide parking frame is determined from the plurality of parking frames based on the obtained destination information. The guide parking frame is a parking frame whose evaluation value corresponding to the user's destination meets the specified conditions. as well as The guide parking frame information, indicating the confirmed guide parking frame, is sent to the user terminal used by the user.

12. A program product comprising a program that is processed by a computer, the computer guiding a user wishing to utilize a parking lot having multiple parking bays capable of parking vehicles to a parking bay determined from the multiple parking bays, wherein, The program causes the computer to perform the following processing: Obtain destination information representing the user's destination; Referring to the storage unit storing parking frame information representing the evaluation value of each parking frame for each destination, a guide parking frame is determined from the plurality of parking frames based on the obtained destination information. The guide parking frame is a parking frame whose evaluation value corresponding to the user's destination meets the specified conditions. as well as The guide parking frame information, indicating the confirmed guide parking frame, is sent to the user terminal used by the user.

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