Air conditioning remote start system and central server

Abstract

Air conditioning remote control start system (1) comprising a user's terminal (200), a central server (100) configured to communicate with the terminal (200), and a vehicle (2) comprising an air conditioning system (10) and configured to communicate with the central server (100), the air conditioning remote control start system (1) comprising: a first transmission unit (2201) provided in the terminal (200) and configured to transmit a start request of the air conditioner (10) to the central server (100); a first receiving unit (1201) provided in the central server (100) and configured to receive the start request from the terminal (200); a second transmission unit (1201) provided in the central server (100) and configured to transmit the start request received by the first reception unit (1201) to the vehicle (2); a second receiving unit (90) provided in the vehicle (2) and configured to receive the start request from the central server (100); a start control device (802) provided in the vehicle (2) and configured to start the air conditioner (10) when the second receiving unit (90) receives the start request; a determination unit (602, 1203) provided in one of the terminal (200), the central server (100) and the vehicle (2) and configured to determine the need for defrosting a window of the vehicle (2); a notification unit (2204) provided in the terminal (200) and configured to inform the user that defrosting of the window is necessary when the determination unit (602, 1203) determines that defrosting of the window is necessary; and a GPS module (50) configured to receive position information of the vehicle (2); wherein the determination unit (602, 1203) is configured to determine a possibility that ice is being generated and determine whether de-icing is necessary based on information relating to a current ice generation situation in each area or history information of past ice generation distributed from the central server (100) and the position information of the vehicle (2) received by the GPS module (50).

Description

Background of the invention 1. Field of the invention

[0001] The present invention relates to an air conditioner remote control start system and a central server. 2. Description of the related prior art

[0002] In a system in which a user performs remote start of an engine and an air conditioner from a remote location of a vehicle using a remote controller, a technology is known in which an in-vehicle device performs drive control of a defroster based on information such as an ambient temperature (see, for example, JP H11-62793 A or the like).

[0003] Furthermore, DE 10 2017 109 509 A1 discloses that in a method for heating or cooling a vehicle, an application stored on an electronic memory of a mobile communication device is triggered. The electronic memory is connected to a microprocessor. The microprocessor is operatively connected to a mobile communication platform. Preset climate control modes are displayed on a display. A user input identifying a preset climate control mode is received at a user interface. In response to receiving the user input, the selected preset climate control mode is transmitted to a vehicle communication platform. In response to receiving the selected preset climate control mode, a climate control command is transmitted by the vehicle communication platform to a climate control system.In response to receiving the climate control command at the climate control system control module, the selected preset climate control mode is caused to be implemented in the vehicle.

[0004] CN 1 05 480 048 A discloses a system for pre-cleaning a vehicle windshield. A control unit of the system is provided with an independent auxiliary power source. The auxiliary power source is charged by a vehicle generator. A laser detector installed on a console in a passenger compartment transmits a detected windshield reflection signal to the control unit. A temperature sensor for detecting the vehicle's exterior temperature outputs a vehicle's exterior temperature signal to the control unit. The control unit communicates with a user's mobile phone via a communication unit. The control unit outputs control signals to a start button unit and an air conditioning unit of a vehicle.

[0005] CN 2 02 686 304 U discloses a motor vehicle defrosting system comprising a defrosting device and a remote control device, wherein the defrosting system comprises a central processing unit, a heating module, a blower, a servomotor, and a first wireless communication module; and the remote control device comprises an electronic control unit, a start button, a conveying module, and a second wireless communication module. The central processing unit is connected to each of the heating module, the blower, the servomotor, and the first wireless communication module; the servomotor is connected to a mixed air flap of an automobile; and the electronic control unit is connected to each of the start button, the conveying module, and the second wireless communication module.The disclosed defrosting device is started by the remote control device, and the frost on a windshield can be removed by a driver by starting the defrosting device before the driver gets into the vehicle.

[0006] WO 2015 / 129 164 A1 discloses a vehicle operation suggestion device that can be used in a vehicle, the device comprising: a primary prediction unit that predicts the future status of status features that are necessary to judge whether preset types of operations orOperations are to be suggested; a primary suggestion determination unit that determines a primary operation to be suggested to the driver based on the future status of the status characteristics; a secondary prediction unit that predicts a post-primary operation status for the status of the status characteristics after the primary operation determined by the primary suggestion determination unit is performed; a secondary suggestion determination unit that determines a secondary operation to be suggested to the driver based on the post-primary operation status predicted by the secondary prediction unit; and a suggestion output processing unit that outputs, from a prescribed output unit, the primary operation determined by the primary suggestion determination unit and the secondary operation determined by the secondary suggestion determination unit.

[0007] US 2014 / 0 100 716 A1 discloses a remote control system for a vehicle air conditioner that transmits a remote control instruction from a mobile terminal carried by a vehicle user to an onboard communication device of a vehicle identified by the mobile terminal via a server provided in an information center that handles vehicle information, thereby starting an air conditioner of the vehicle before the user gets into the vehicle to perform pre-conditioning of the vehicle interior. The remote control system includes a temperature condition estimation section that estimates a temperature condition of the cabin; and a display control section that displays the temperature condition estimated by the temperature condition estimation section on a screen of the mobile terminal in a display state associated with its estimation accuracy.

[0008] WO 2013 / 124990 A1 discloses that, once pre-conditioning begins, a DCM transmits information about the vehicle's state and a screen display command to a portable terminal, the DCM being an in-vehicle terminal. The portable terminal receives the screen display command and displays a message indicating the vehicle's state on a screen, as well as a selection button for selecting the option to continue or end the pre-conditioning process.

[0009] JP 2013 - 039 841 A discloses a vehicle defroster, wherein, when a frost detection unit detects frost during a stop of an internal combustion engine, at least one sub-battery is used to actuate some of a plurality of types of de-icing agents or all of a plurality of types of de-icing agents.

[0010] In addition, US 2016 / 0 200 166 A1 discloses a motor vehicle comprising an HVAC system with a climate control circuit coupled to on-board sensors, a human-machine interface, and climate actuators. The actuators respond to corresponding command parameters generated by the control circuit in response to the sensors and the human-machine interface. A wireless communication system transmits vehicle HVAC data to and receives data from a remote server. The control circuit initiates a request for crowd data to the remote server via the communication system, the request including peer parameters for identifying a vehicle environment. The control circuit receives a response from the remote server via the communication system. The response includes crowd data and at least one weight indicating a confidence level associated with the crowd data.The control circuit generates at least one command parameter using a set of fuzzy rules in response to the crowd data and the weight from the response. Summary of the invention

[0011] However, since the defroster in JP H11-62793A is automatically operated based on the ambient temperature and the like, it is not possible to consider a user's intention, and there is a possibility that the defroster may be operated contrary to a user's intention. For example, in a case where the user gets into a vehicle and operates before engine start or the like while warming up the interior of a passenger compartment of the vehicle, it is not possible to respond to a request that operation of the defroster is unnecessary, and there is a possibility that unnecessary fuel consumption or power consumption may occur.

[0012] The above problems and the resulting object are solved by the subject matter of the independent claims. Advantageous developments of the invention are the subject matter of the dependent claims.

[0013] The invention provides an air conditioning remote start system and a central server that can take into account a user's intention when performing defrosting or defrosting of a vehicle window.

[0014] A first aspect of the invention relates to an air conditioning remote control start system comprising a user's terminal device, a central server configured to communicate with the terminal device, and a vehicle including an air conditioning system and configured to communicate with the central server. The air conditioning remote control start system comprises a first transmission unit, a first reception unit, a second transmission unit, a second reception unit, a start control device, a determination unit, and a notification unit. The first transmission unit is provided in the terminal device and configured to transmit a start request of the air conditioning system to the central server. The reception unit is provided in the central server and configured to receive the start request from the terminal device.The second transmission unit is provided in the central server and is configured to transmit the start request received by the first reception unit to the vehicle. The second reception unit is provided in the vehicle and is configured to receive the start request from the central server. The start control device is provided in the vehicle and is configured to start the air conditioner when the second reception unit receives the start request. The determination unit is provided in one of the terminal device, the central server, and the vehicle and is configured to determine a need for defrosting or defrosting or a defrosting requirement of a window of the vehicle. The notification unit is provided in the terminal device and is configured to inform the user thereof.notified that defrosting of the window is necessary when the determining unit determines that defrosting of the window is necessary.

[0015] According to the first aspect of the invention, the terminal device (first transmission unit) transmits the start request of the air conditioner to the central server, the central server (first receiving unit and second receiving unit) transmits the received start request to the vehicle, and in a case where the start request is received, the vehicle (second receiving unit and start control device) starts the air conditioner. Then, the determination unit provided in one of the terminal device, the central server, and the vehicle determines the need for defrosting the vehicle window. In a case where a determination is made that defrosting is necessary, the terminal device (notification unit) notifies the user that defrosting is necessary.Accordingly, for example, a user who plans to start driving immediately after getting into the vehicle can remotely operate a defroster from the terminal device in accordance with the notification that defrosting is necessary, or the user can remotely operate to extend the operating time of the air conditioner. For example, a user who does not plan to start driving immediately because they want to do work or the like before starting driving after getting into the vehicle can avoid a special additional operation even though the notification that defrosting is necessary is provided. That is, it is possible to consider a user's intention when performing defrosting of the vehicle window.

[0016] In the air conditioner remote control start system according to the first aspect of the invention, the notification unit may be configured to display on a display of the terminal device that defrosting of the window is necessary and to display on the display of the terminal device a selection operation screen that allows the user to select a predetermined mode provided for defrosting the air conditioner.

[0017] According to the first aspect of the invention, the display of the terminal device performs the display of the selection operation screen for selecting the predetermined mode for defrosting along with the indication that defrosting of the vehicle window is necessary. Accordingly, the user who desires defrosting can immediately select a mode for defrosting without performing any additional operation. Therefore, it is possible to improve the user's usability.

[0018] The air conditioner remote start system according to the first aspect of the invention may further include a stop control device provided in one of the terminal device, the central server, and the vehicle, and configured to stop the air conditioner when a set time has elapsed after the start control device starts the air conditioner. The first transmission unit may be configured to transmit the start request, including the set time for operating the air conditioner, to the central server. The notification unit may be configured to indicate, on the display of the terminal device, that window defrosting is necessary and to display a change operation screen that allows the user to change the set time.

[0019] According to the first aspect of the invention, the terminal device (first transmission unit) transmits the start request including the set time for operating the air conditioner to the vehicle via the central server, and the stop control device provided in one of the terminal device, the central server, and the vehicle stops the air conditioner in a case where the set time has elapsed from a predetermined start point (for example, the start itself may be set as a start point, or a time when another condition is satisfied after the start may be set as a start point) after the air conditioner is started based on the start request.Then, the terminal device (notification unit) displays the change operation screen for changing the set air conditioning operation time, along with the notification that defrosting the vehicle window is necessary. Accordingly, the user who desires defrosting can immediately perform a change operation, such as an operation to extend the set air conditioning operation time, without performing any additional operations. Therefore, it is possible to further improve user convenience.

[0020] In the air conditioner remote control start system according to the first aspect of the invention, the predetermined mode may include a defrosting mode in which defrosting is performed by the air conditioner, a setting time changing mode in which a set time of the air conditioner is changed, and a mode in which no countermeasure is taken upon notification that defrosting is necessary.

[0021] An air conditioning remote start system according to an illustrative aspect of the present disclosure may further include a room temperature sensor provided in the vehicle and a humidity sensor provided in the vehicle. The determination unit may be configured to determine whether defrosting is necessary by determining a possibility of frost generation based on an interior temperature and an interior humidity of the vehicle detected by the room temperature sensor and the humidity sensor.

[0022] The air conditioning remote start system according to another illustrative aspect of the present disclosure may further include a passenger compartment camera provided in the vehicle. The determination unit may be configured to determine a possibility of frost formation and determine whether defrosting is necessary by analyzing a situation of a window included in a captured image of the passenger compartment camera through image processing.

[0023] The air conditioning remote start system according to the first aspect of the invention further includes a GPS module configured to receive vehicle position information. The determination unit is configured to determine a possibility of frost formation and determine whether defrosting is necessary based on information related to a current frost formation situation in each area or historical information of past frost formation distributed from the central server and the vehicle position information received by the GPS module.

[0024] A second aspect of the invention relates to a central server connected to be configured to communicate with a user's terminal device and a vehicle with an air conditioning system. The central server is configured to receive a start request transmitted from the terminal device and transmit the start request to the vehicle to start the air conditioning system. The central server comprises a determination unit and a transmission unit. The determination unit is configured to determine the need for defrosting a vehicle window. The transmission unit is configured to transmit a notification that defrosting of the window is necessary to the terminal device when the determination unit determines that defrosting of the window is necessary.The determination unit is configured to determine a possibility that ice is being generated and determine whether deicing is necessary based on information related to a current ice generation situation in each area or history information of past ice generation distributed from the central server and position information of the vehicle received by a GPS module of the vehicle.

[0025] In the central server according to the second aspect of the invention, the determination unit may be configured to determine whether de-icing is necessary based on sensor information transmitted from the vehicle.

[0026] According to the first and second aspects of the invention, it is possible to provide an air conditioner remote start system and a central server capable of taking into account a user's intention in the case of performing defrosting of a vehicle window. Short description of the illustrations

[0027] Features, advantages and technical and industrial significance of exemplary embodiments of the invention are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals designate like elements, and wherein: Fig. 1 is a configuration diagram showing an example of the configuration of an air conditioner remote control start system; Fig. 2 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of a vehicle (air conditioner ECU and engine ECU) according to a first embodiment; Fig. 3 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of a central server (processing device) according to the first embodiment; Fig. 4 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of a terminal (processing device) according to the first embodiment; Fig. 5 is a flowchart showing an example of operation of an air conditioner remote start system according to the first embodiment; Fig. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a notification screen displayed on a touch panel display of the terminal; Fig. 7 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of a vehicle (air conditioner ECU and engine ECU) according to a second embodiment; Fig. 8 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of a central server (processing device) according to the second embodiment; and Fig. 9 is a flowchart schematically showing an example of operation of an air conditioner remote start system according to the second embodiment. Detailed description of embodiments

[0028] A mode for carrying out the invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. First embodiment

[0029] First, the configuration of an air conditioner remote control start system 1 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. Fig. 1 to 4.

[0030] Fig. 1 is a configuration diagram showing an example of the configuration of the air conditioner remote control start system 1 according to the embodiment. Fig. 2 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of a vehicle 2 (air conditioning ECU 60 and engine ECU 80). Fig. 3 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of a central server 100 (processing device 120). Fig. 4 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of a terminal 200 (processing device 220).

[0031] The air conditioner remote start system 1 includes the vehicle 2, the central server 100, and the terminal 200 carried by a user, and starts an air conditioner 10 described below of the vehicle 2 according to a start request to be transmitted from the terminal 200 to the vehicle 2 via the central server 100.

[0032] The vehicle 2 includes the air conditioning system 10, a rear defroster 20, a room temperature sensor 30, an ambient temperature sensor 40, a humidity sensor 45, a global positioning system (GPS) module 50, a passenger compartment camera 55, an air conditioning electronic control unit (ECU) 60, an engine 70, an engine ECU 80, and a DCM 90.

[0033] The air conditioner 10 adjusts an interior temperature or the like of the vehicle 2. The air conditioner 10 includes, for example, a refrigeration cycle including an evaporator (not shown), a compressor (not shown) driven by the engine 70, and the like, and a heater (not shown) using a coolant of the engine 70 as a heat source. The air conditioner 10 adjusts the temperature of air discharged from a blowout port by appropriately mixing air (cold air) that is cooled while passing through the evaporator and air (hot air) that is heated using the coolant of the engine 70 as a heat source under the control of the air conditioner ECU 60 (air conditioner control device 601, described below) so that the ratio is variable. The air conditioner 10 has a defroster mode (defrosting mode), and this removes frost.Ice generated outside or frost generated inside a passenger compartment of a windshield of the vehicle 2 by blowing out air having a relatively low humidity and a relatively high temperature along the windshield of the vehicle 2 from a blowout port according to the defroster mode.

[0034] The rear defroster 20 removes frost generated outside or frost generated inside the vehicle cabin from a rear window of the vehicle 2 under the control of the air conditioning ECU 60. The rear defroster 20 includes, for example, an electrically heated wire embedded in the rear window.

[0035] The room temperature sensor 30 is provided inside the passenger compartment of the vehicle 2, for example, within an instrument panel (not shown), and detects the temperature (inside temperature) inside the cabin or passenger compartment. The room temperature sensor 30 is connected to be configured to communicate with the air conditioning ECU 60 via a one-to-one communication line or a vehicle network such as a CAN (computer interface), and a detection signal corresponding to the detected inside temperature is transmitted to the air conditioning ECU 60.

[0036] The ambient temperature sensor 40 is provided outside the passenger compartment of the vehicle 2, for example, at a front end portion (a portion where outside air is introduced) of an engine compartment provided at a front portion of the vehicle 2, that is, on a back side of a front grille of the vehicle 2, and detects the temperature (ambient temperature) outside the passenger compartment of the vehicle 2. The ambient temperature sensor 40 is connected to be configured to communicate with the air conditioning ECU 60 via a one-to-one communication line or the like, and a detection signal according to the detected ambient temperature is transmitted to the air conditioning ECU 60.

[0037] The humidity sensor 45 is provided inside the passenger compartment of the vehicle 2, for example, inside the dashboard, and detects the humidity (interior humidity) inside the passenger compartment. The humidity sensor 45 is connected to be configured to communicate with the air conditioning ECU 60 via a one-to-one communication line or the like, and a detection signal according to the detected interior humidity is transmitted to the air conditioning ECU 60.

[0038] The GPS module 50 receives GPS signals transmitted from three or more (preferably four or more) satellites above the vehicle 2, and measures the position of the vehicle 2 on which the GPS module 50 is mounted. The GPS module 50 is connected to be configured to communicate with the air conditioning ECU 60 via a one-to-one communication line or a vehicle network such as a CAN, and measured position information of the vehicle 2 is transmitted to the air conditioning ECU 60.

[0039] The passenger compartment camera 55 corresponds to an imaging device that images a situation inside the passenger compartment of the vehicle 2. The passenger compartment camera 55 is connected to be configured to communicate with the air conditioning ECU 60 via a one-to-one communication line or a vehicle network such as a CAN, and a captured image is transmitted to the air conditioning ECU 60.

[0040] The air conditioning ECU 60 corresponds to an electronic control unit that performs various controls with respect to the air conditioning system 10 and the rear defroster 20. The air conditioning ECU 60 may be configured such that the functions of the air conditioning ECU 60 are realized by any hardware, any software, or a combination of any hardware and any software, or may be primarily composed of, for example, a microcomputer including a CPU, a RAM, a ROM, an I / O, and the like. The air conditioning ECU 60 includes, for example, an air conditioning control device 601 and a defrosting requirement determination unit 602 as a functional unit, which is realized by executing one or more programs stored in the ROM on the CPU.

[0041] The air conditioning control device 601 performs operation control of the air conditioning system 10 according to a set state, such as a set temperature and a mode (a plurality of outlet modes according to combinations of outlets or a defroster mode). Specifically, the air conditioning control device 601 performs operation control of the air conditioning system 10 based on detection values ​​of the room temperature sensor 30, the ambient temperature sensor 40, or the like, for example, so that the interior temperature becomes the set temperature. The air conditioning control device 601 performs operation control (on / off control) of the rear defroster 20 according to the set state (on / off).The air conditioning control device 601 starts the air conditioner 10 according to an air conditioning start request from a remote control assistance control device 802, which will be described below, and performs operation control of the air conditioner 10 according to the set contents included in the air conditioning start request. Details of the control contents according to the air conditioning start request from the remote control assistance control device 802 will be described in detail.

[0042] The defrosting requirement determination unit 602 (an example of a determination unit) determines whether defrosting of a window including a windshield or a rear window of the vehicle 2 is necessary. For example, the defrosting requirement determination unit 602 can determine the need for defrosting of a window by determining a possibility of frost generation based on an interior temperature and interior humidity of the vehicle 2 detected by the room temperature sensor 30 and the humidity sensor 45. A possibility of frost generation can be determined, for example, by analyzing a situation of a window included in the captured image of the passenger compartment camera 55 via image processing or the like, and the defrosting requirement of the window can be determined.The need for defrosting the window may be determined, for example, by determining a possibility of frost formation based on real-time frost information related to a current ice formation situation in each area, which is distributed from the central server 100, and the position information of the vehicle 2 received from the GPS module 50. The need for defrosting the window may be determined, for example, by determining a possibility of frost formation based on historical information of past ice formation in each area, which is distributed from the central server 100, and the position information of the vehicle 2 received from the GPS module 50.

[0043] The function of the defrosting requirement determination unit 602 may be provided in the engine ECU 80, or it may be provided in another ECU configured to communicate with the air conditioning ECU 60 and the engine ECU 80. In the above-described case, sensor information (various information, such as detection signals from the room temperature sensor 30, the ambient temperature sensor 40, and the humidity sensor 45, the position information of the vehicle 2 from the GPS module 50, and the captured image from the passenger compartment camera 55) may be transmitted from the air conditioning ECU 60 to the engine ECU 80 or another ECU via a vehicle network such as a CAN.

[0044] The engine 70 corresponds to a drive power source of the vehicle 2. The engine 70 is operated by burning gasoline, diesel, or the like, which is supplied from a fuel tank (not shown) via a fuel pump, in a cylinder under the control of the engine ECU 80. The engine 70, specifically, various actuators (a fuel injection device that injects fuel, an ignition device that ignites the gasoline injected into the cylinder, an electric motor provided to change an opening and closing timing of an intake or exhaust valve, and the like) incorporated in the engine 70 are connected to be configured to communicate with the engine ECU 80 via a one-to-one communication line or the like and operate according to a control command transmitted from the engine ECU 80.

[0045] The engine ECU 80 corresponds to an electronic control unit that performs various control processing of the engine 70 including a starter (not shown). The engine ECU 80 may be configured such that the functions of the engine ECU 80 are realized by any hardware, any software, or a combination of any hardware and any software, or may be mainly constructed by a microcomputer including a CPU, a RAM, a ROM, an I / O, and the like, for example. The engine ECU 80 includes, for example, an engine control device 801 and a remote assistance control device 802 as functional units, which are realized by executing one or more programs stored in the ROM.

[0046] The engine control device 801 performs operation control of the engine 70 according to an operation state (for example, an accelerator pedal operation amount, a selected gear stage of a transmission (not shown), and the like) by a driver of the vehicle 2, an environmental condition (for example, the ambient temperature), or the like around the vehicle 2. For example, the engine control device 801 starts the engine 70 in a case where an ignition switch (IG switch) is on (IG-On) or the start request is input from the outside. Specifically, the engine control device 801 drives the starter by switching a relay (not shown) that puts the starter into an electrically conducting state to a connecting state, and the engine 70 is started by appropriately controlling the fuel injection device and the ignition device in accordance with the cranking by the starter.

[0047] The remote support control device 802 (an example of a start control device) starts the engine 70 and the air conditioner 10 by transmitting an engine start request and an air conditioner start request to the engine control device 801 and the air conditioner control device 601, respectively, according to the start request received from the terminal device 200 through the central server 100. After the engine 70 and the air conditioner 10 start, the remote support control device 802 (an example of a stop control device) stops the air conditioner 10 and the engine 70 in a case where the set operation time (or, as described below, a set operation time changed according to an operation time change request) included in the start request has elapsed after the start.For example, in a case where the set operation time has elapsed after the engine 70 and the air conditioner 10 are started, the remote support control device 802 may stop the air conditioner 10 and the engine 70, or it may stop the air conditioner 10 and the engine 70 when another condition is satisfied after the engine 70 and the air conditioner 10 are started (for example, when a determination is made that the interior temperature increases to a predetermined reference). Details of the processing in the remote support control device 802 will be described below.

[0048] The function of the remote support control device 802 may be provided in the air conditioning ECU 60, or it may be provided in another ECU configured to communicate with the air conditioning ECU 60 and the engine ECU 80. A functional unit (another example of a stop control device) that makes a determination to stop the engine 70 and the air conditioner 10 may be provided in the central server 100 or the terminal 200 instead of the vehicle 2 (remote support control device 802). For example, in a case where the start notification described below is received from the vehicle 2, the central server 100 may output a stop signal to stop the air conditioner 10 and transmit the stop signal to the vehicle 2 when the set operation time has elapsed after the reception.For example, in a case where the start notification is received from the vehicle 2 via the central server 100, the terminal device 200 may output the stop signal to stop the air conditioner 10 and transmit the stop signal to the vehicle 2 via the central server 100 when the set operation time has elapsed after receiving it. In the above-described case, in a case where the DCM 90 receives the stop signal, the vehicle 2 (remote support control device 802) sends a stop request to the air conditioning control device 601 and stops the air conditioner 10.

[0049] The DCM 90 corresponds to a communication device that performs two-way communication with the central server 100 and the terminal 200 via a predetermined communication network N1 (for example, a mobile phone network having multiple base stations as terminals, the Internet, or the like). The air conditioning ECU 60, the engine ECU 80, and the DCM 90 are connected to be configured to communicate with each other via a vehicle network such as a CAN.

[0050] The central server 100 includes communication equipment 110 and a processing device 120.

[0051] The communication equipment 110 corresponds to a device that performs two-way communication with the vehicle 2 (DCM 90) and the terminal 200 via communication networks N1, N2 under the control of the processing device 120 (communication processing unit 1201).

[0052] The processing device 120 performs various control processing in the central server 100. The processing device 120 is primarily configured, for example, by one or a plurality of server computers including a CPU, a RAM, a ROM, an I / O, and the like, and includes a communication processing unit 1201 and a relay control device 1202 as functional units, which are realized by executing one or more programs stored in the ROM on the CPU.

[0053] The communication processing unit 1201 controls the communication equipment 110 and performs transmission and reception of various signals (control signals, information signals, and the like) with the vehicle 2 and the terminal 200.

[0054] The relay control device 1202 relays various signals between the vehicle 2 and the terminal 200. Details will be described below.

[0055] The terminal 200 is, for example, a portable terminal, such as a smartphone or a tablet terminal, carried by the user of the vehicle 2. The terminal 200 may, for example, be a stationary computer owned by the user of the vehicle 2. The following description assumes that the terminal 200 corresponds to a portable terminal. The terminal 200 includes communication equipment 210, a processing device 220, and a touch panel display (hereinafter simply referred to as a display) 240.

[0056] The communication equipment 210 corresponds to a device that performs two-way communication with the central server 100 via a predetermined communication network N2 (for example, a mobile phone network having a plurality of base stations as terminals, the Internet, or the like) under the control of the processing device 220 (communication processing unit 2201), and this corresponds to, for example, a Long Term Evolution (LTE) module.

[0057] The processing device 220 performs various control processing in the terminal device 200. The processing device 220 is primarily configured, for example, by a computer including a CPU, a RAM, a ROM, an I / O, and the like, and includes a communication processing unit 2201, a display control device 2202, a startup request unit 2203, and a defrost request unit 2204 as functional units, which are realized by executing one or more programs stored in the ROM on the CPU.

[0058] The communication processing unit 2201 controls the communication equipment 210 and performs transmission and reception of various signals with the central server 100.

[0059] The display control device 2202 displays various images on the display 240 according to a predetermined user operation. For example, the display control device 2202 displays various graphical user interfaces (GUIs) as an operation screen on the display 240.

[0060] The start request unit 2203 transmits the start request for requesting the start of the engine 70 and the air conditioner 10 to the central server 100 via the communication processing unit 2201 according to a predetermined user operation on a predetermined GUI displayed by the display control device 2202 on the display 240. Thus, the start request transmitted to the central server 100 is transmitted to the vehicle 2 via the central server 100 (forwarding control device 1202), and the engine 70 and the air conditioner 10 are started. The user can make various settings on the predetermined GUI when operating the air conditioner 10, and the start request unit 2203 transmits the start request including various settings to the central server 100.Thus, in the vehicle 2, control of the air conditioner 10 is performed based on set contents (the set temperature as a user's request value for the interior temperature, the set operation time as a user's request value for the operation time of the air conditioner 10, and the like). Details of the processing in the start request unit 2203 will be described below.

[0061] The defrost request unit 2204 transmits a defrost operation request for requesting operation of the air conditioner 10 in the defrost mode (defrost mode) or an operation time change request for requesting a change (extension) of the time for operating the air conditioner 10, that is, the set operation time, to the central server 100 via the communication processing unit 2201 according to a predetermined user operation on a predetermined GUI displayed by the display control device 2202 on the display 240.Thus, the defroster operation request or the operation time change request transmitted to the central server 100 is relayed via the central server 100 (relay control device 1202) and transmitted to the vehicle 2, and operation of the air conditioner 10 in the defroster mode or change of the set operation time of the air conditioner 10 is realized. Details of the processing in the defrost request unit 2204 will be described below.

[0062] Hereinafter, a specific operation of the air conditioner remote control start system 1 will be described with reference to Fig. 5 described.

[0063] Fig. 5 is a sequence diagram schematically showing an example of the operation of the air conditioner remote control start system 1 according to the embodiment.

[0064] At step S502, the startup request unit 2203 of the terminal device 200 transmits the startup request including various setting contents (set temperature, set operation time, and the like) to the central server 100 via the communication processing unit 2201 (an example of a first transmission unit) according to a predetermined user operation on a predetermined GUI.

[0065] At step S504, in a case where the communication processing unit 1201 (an example of a first receiving unit) receives the start request from the terminal device 200, the relay control device 1202 of the central server 100 transmits the start request to the vehicle 2 via the communication processing unit 1201 (an example of a second transmitting unit).

[0066] At step S506, in a case where the DCM 90 (an example of a second receiving unit) receives the start request from the central server 100, the remote assist control device 802 of the vehicle 2 transmits the engine start request to the engine control device 801 and starts the engine 70.

[0067] Furthermore, at step S508, in a case where the DCM 90 receives the start request from the central server 100, the remote control assistance control device 802 of the vehicle 2 transmits the air conditioner start request including the setting contents included in the start request from the central server 100 to the air conditioning control device 601 and starts the air conditioner 10. Thus, the air conditioning control device 601 performs operation control of the air conditioner 10 according to the setting contents included in the air conditioning start request. For example, the air conditioning control device 601 performs operation control of the air conditioner 10 based on the set temperature included in the air conditioning start request, so that the interior temperature of the vehicle 2 becomes the set temperature.

[0068] At step S510, in a case where the start of the engine 70 and the air conditioner 10 is completed, the remote operation support control device 802 transmits the start notification that the start of the engine 70 and the air conditioner 10 is completed to the central server 100 via the DCM 90.

[0069] At step S512, in a case where the communication processing unit 1201 receives the start notification from the vehicle 2, the relay control device 1202 of the central server 100 transmits the start notification to the terminal device 200 via the communication processing unit 1201. Thus, for example, the display control device 2202 of the terminal device 200 displays on the display 240 that the start of the engine 70 and the air conditioner 10 is normally completed when the start notification is received by the communication processing unit 2201, or the like, and can inform the user that the start of the engine 70 and the air conditioner 10 is normally completed.

[0070] After the remote assistance control device 802 transmits the start notification to the central server 100, the defrosting requirement determination unit 602 of the vehicle 2 acquires the sensor information (various information such as the detection signals of the room temperature sensor 30, the ambient temperature sensor 40, and the humidity sensor 45, the position information of the vehicle 2 from the GPS module 50, and the captured image of the passenger compartment camera 55) from a buffer in the RAM of the air conditioning ECU 60 at step S514.

[0071] At step S516, the defrosting requirement determining unit 602 determines the necessity of defrosting or a defrosting requirement of a window of the vehicle 2 based on the acquired sensor information, as described above.

[0072] In a case where the defrosting requirement determination unit 602 determines that defrosting of the window of the vehicle 2 is necessary, the remote assist control device 802 of the vehicle 2 transmits the notification (defrosting requirement notification) that defrosting of the window of the vehicle 2 is necessary to the central server 100 via the DCM 90 at step S518.

[0073] In a case where the communication processing unit 1201 receives the defrosting requirement notification from the vehicle 2, the relay control device 1202 of the central server 100 transmits the defrosting requirement notification to the terminal 200 via the communication processing unit 1201 at step S520.

[0074] In a case where the communication processing unit 2201 receives the defrosting requirement notification, the defrosting request unit 2204 (an example of a notification unit) of the terminal device 200 displays an ice countermeasure operation screen on the display 240 via the display control device 2202 at step S522. On the ice countermeasure operation screen, a notification (indication) that defrosting is necessary is provided to the user, and an operation menu for performing defrosting is displayed.

[0075] Fig. For example, FIG. 6 corresponds to a diagram showing an example of the ice countermeasure operation screen. In an upper area of ​​the display 240 of the terminal device 200, a notification 2401 that defrosting is necessary, specifically, the notification 2401 that "there is a possibility of ice being generated" is displayed. In an area below the notification 2401 of the display 240, icons 2402 to 2404 that can be selectively operated by the user are arranged and displayed in an up-down direction. Of the icons 2402 to 2404, the icon 2402 arranged on the uppermost side corresponds to a virtual operation unit provided for selecting operation of the air conditioner 10 and the rear defroster 20 in the defrosting mode (defroster mode), and the "defrosting mode" is described in the icon 2402.Among icons 2402 to 2404, icon 2403 located on the middle side corresponds to a virtual operation unit provided for selecting a transition to an operation screen for changing (extending) the set operating time of the air conditioner 10, and a "change time" is described within icon 2403. The user can input a value of a specifically set operating time to be changed after the transition on the operation screen. Hereinafter, a selection operation of icon 2403 on the ice countermeasure operation screen and an operation to input the value of the specifically set operating time on the operation screen after the transition are collectively referred to as an operating time change operation.Among the icons 2402 to 2404, the icon 2404 located on the bottom side corresponds to a virtual actuation unit, which is provided for selection so that no countermeasure is taken in response to the defrosting requirement notification, and “no countermeasure” is described in the icon 2404.

[0076] With further reference to Fig. 5, the defrost request unit 2204 of the terminal 200 receives at step S524 the selection operation (defrost mode selection operation) of the icon 2402 on the Fig. 6, or the selection operation of icon 2403 and the input operation (operation time change operation) of the value of the set operation time after the transition on the operation screen.

[0077] At step S526, the defrost request unit 2204 of the terminal device 200 transmits the defroster operation request or the operation time change request to the central server 100 via the communication processing unit 2201 according to the defrost mode selection operation or the operation time change operation.

[0078] In a case where the communication processing unit 1201 receives the defroster operation request or the operation time change request from the terminal device 200, the relay control device 1202 of the central server 100 transmits the defroster operation request or the operation time change request to the vehicle 2 via the communication processing unit 1201 at step S528.

[0079] In a case where the DCM 90 receives the defroster operation request from the central server 100, the remote assistance control device 802 of the vehicle 2 transmits a defroster start request to the air conditioning control device 601 at step S530. Thus, the air conditioning control device 601 starts the defroster mode of the air conditioner 10 and starts (on) the rear defroster 20 upon receiving the defroster start request. In a case where the DCM 90 receives the operation time change request from the central server 100, the remote assistance control device 802 transmits the operation time change request to the air conditioning control device 601. Thus, the air conditioning control device 601 changes the set operation time to the post-change value included in the operation time change request.

[0080] For example, in a case where the set operation time has elapsed after the engine 70 and the air conditioner 10 are started, the remote assist control device 802 of the vehicle 2 transmits an air conditioner stop request to the air conditioner control device 601 at step S532. Thus, the air conditioner control device 601 stops the air conditioner 10 and the rear defroster 20 from operating or the air conditioner 10 from operating.

[0081] Furthermore, in a case where, for example, the set operation time has elapsed after the engine 70 and the air conditioner 10 are started, the remote assistance control device 802 of the vehicle 2 sends an engine stop request to the engine control device 801 at step S534. Thus, the engine control device 801 stops the engine 70.

[0082] In a case where the stop of the air conditioner 10 and the engine 70 is completed, the remote assist control device 802 of the vehicle 2 transmits a stop notification that the stop of the air conditioner 10 and the engine 70 is completed to the central server 100 via the DCM 90 at step S536.

[0083] In a case where the stop notification from the vehicle 2 is received by the communication processing unit 1201, the relay control device 1202 of the central server 100 transmits the stop notification to the terminal device 200 via the communication processing unit 1201 at step S538. Thus, the display control device 2202 of the terminal device 200 displays on the display 240, for example, that the stop of the air conditioner 10 and the engine 70 is normally completed when the stop notification is received by the communication processing unit 2201, or the like, and can inform the user that the stop of the air conditioner 10 and the engine 70 is normally completed.

[0084] As described above, in the embodiment, the communication processing unit 2201 of the terminal device 200 transmits the start request of the air conditioner 10 according to the request from the start request unit 2203 to the central server, the communication processing unit 1201 of the central server 100 transmits the received start request according to the request from the relay control device 1202 to the vehicle 2, and in a case where the DCM 90 receives the start request from the central server 100, the remote support control device 802 of the vehicle 2 starts the air conditioner 10.Then, the defrosting requirement determination unit 602 of the vehicle 2 determines the defrosting requirement of the window of the vehicle 2. In a case where the defrosting requirement determination unit 602 determines that defrosting of the window of the vehicle 2 is necessary (specifically, in a case where the communication processing unit 2201 receives the defrosting requirement notification based on the determination from the central server 100), the defrosting request unit 2204 (notification unit) of the terminal device 200 notifies the user that defrosting of the window is necessary.Accordingly, the user who plans to start driving immediately after getting into the vehicle 2 can perform a remote operation (defrost mode selection operation) to operate the defroster (the defrost mode of the air conditioner 10 and the rear defroster 20) from the terminal device 200, or can perform a remote operation (operation time change operation) to extend the operation time of the air conditioner 10 according to the notification that defrosting is necessary. For example, the user who does not plan to start driving immediately to do work or the like before starting the drive after getting into the vehicle 2 can be enabled to avoid a special additional operation by selecting the icon 2404 on the ice countermeasure operation screen as described above, even though the notification that defrosting is necessary is provided.That is, it is possible to take into account a user's intention in the case of performing defrosting of the window of the vehicle 2. The user's intention is taken into account, whereby it is possible to further suppress, for example, wasteful operation of the defroster, extension of the operation time of the air conditioner 10, and the like as described above, despite a situation in which defrosting of the window of the vehicle 2 is not necessary as a user's intention. Thus, it is possible to further suppress energy consumption of the vehicle 2 and further improve fuel economy or the like.

[0085] In the embodiment, in a case where the defrosting requirement determination unit 602 determines that defrosting of the window of the vehicle 2 is necessary (specifically, in a case where the communication processing unit 2201 receives the defrosting requirement notification based on the determination from the central server 100), the defrosting request unit 2204 (notification unit) of the terminal device 200 displays on the display 240 of the terminal device 200 that defrosting of the window is necessary, and displays on the display 240 the selection operation screen (the icon 2402 on the ice countermeasure operation screen) for enabling the user to select a predetermined mode (defroster mode) provided for defrosting the air conditioner 10.Thus, on the display 240 of the terminal 200, the selection operation screen for selecting the predetermined defrosting mode is displayed along with the indication that defrosting of the window of the vehicle 2 is necessary. Accordingly, the user who desires defrosting can immediately select a defrosting mode without performing any additional operation. For this reason, it is possible to further improve the user's usability.

[0086] In the embodiment, the communication processing unit 2201 of the terminal device 200 transmits the start request including the set operation time for operating the air conditioner 10 according to the request from the start request unit 2203 to the central server 100, and in a case where the DCM 90 receives the start request from the terminal device 200 via the central server 100, the remote assist control device 802 of the vehicle 2 starts the air conditioner 10, and in a case where the set operation time has elapsed from a predetermined start point after the start, the remote assist control device 802 stops the air conditioner 10.Then, in a case where the defrosting requirement determination unit 602 determines that defrosting of the window of the vehicle 2 is necessary (specifically, in a case where the communication processing unit 2201 receives the defrosting requirement notification based on the determination from the central server 100), the defrosting request unit 2204 indicates on the display 240 of the terminal device 200 that defrosting of the window is necessary, and displays the change operation screen (the icon 2403 on the anti-icing operation screen) to allow the user to change the set operation time. Thus, on the display 240 of the terminal device 200, the display of the change operation screen for changing the set operation time of the air conditioner 10 is performed along with the indication that defrosting of the window of the vehicle 2 is necessary.Accordingly, the user who desires defrosting can immediately perform the change operation, such as an operation to extend the set operating time of the air conditioner 10, without performing any additional operation. Therefore, it is possible to further improve the user's usability.

[0087] Although in the embodiment, the set operation time is set and the operation time of the air conditioner 10, which is started according to the start request transmitted from the terminal device 200 to the vehicle 2 via the central server 100, is limited, a form may be provided in which the set operation time is not set (that is, a form in which the operation of the air conditioner 10 continues until the user arrives at the vehicle 2). In the above-described case, the processing related to changing the set operation time based on the user's operation time change operation and operation time change request is omitted. Second embodiment

[0088] A second embodiment is described.

[0089] An air conditioner remote start system 1 according to the embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the defrosting requirement determination unit 602 is removed from the vehicle 2, and the function of the defrosting requirement determination unit 602 is provided in the central server 100 (defrosting requirement determination unit 1203). Hereinafter, the same or similar configurations as those in the first embodiment are represented by the same reference numerals, and a description will be provided focusing on the portions different from the first embodiment.

[0090] First, the configuration of the air conditioner remote control start system 1 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. Fig. 7 and Fig. 8 described.

[0091] The overall configuration of the air conditioner remote control start system 1 and the functional configuration of the terminal device 200 (processing device 220) according to the embodiment are shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 as in the first embodiment. Fig. 1 and Fig. 4 shown.

[0092] Fig. 7 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of a vehicle 2 (air conditioner ECU 60 and engine ECU 80) according to the embodiment. Fig. 8 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of a central server 100 (processing device 120) according to the embodiment.

[0093] As in Fig. 7, the air conditioning ECU 60 includes an air conditioning control device 601 and a sensor information transmission unit 603.

[0094] The sensor information transmission unit 603 performs processing for acquiring sensor information (various information such as the detection signals of the room temperature sensor 30, the ambient temperature sensor 40, and the humidity sensor 45, the position information of the vehicle 2 from the GPS module 50, and the captured image from the passenger compartment camera 55) from a buffer in the RAM and transmitting the sensor information to the central server 100 via the DCM 90.

[0095] As in Fig. 8, the processing device 120 includes a communication processing unit 1201, a relay control device 1202, and a defrosting requirement determination unit 1203.

[0096] The defrosting requirement determination unit 1203 (another example of a determination unit) determines whether defrosting of a window, including a windshield and a rear window, of the vehicle 2 is necessary based on the sensor information received from the vehicle 2 by the communication processing unit 1201. The defrosting requirement determination unit 1203 can determine whether defrosting of the window of the vehicle 2 is necessary by the same method as the defrosting requirement determination unit 602 of the first embodiment described above.

[0097] With reference to Fig. 9, a specific operation of the air conditioner remote control start system 1 according to the embodiment will be described.

[0098] Fig. 9 is a sequence chart schematically showing an example of operation of the air conditioner remote control start system 1 according to the embodiment.

[0099] Steps S902 to S914 are the same as steps S502 to S514 of Fig. 5 and therefore the description of it will not be repeated.

[0100] At S916, the sensor information transmission unit 603 of the vehicle 2 transmits the sensor information to the central server 100 via the DCM 90.

[0101] In a case where the communication processing unit 1201 receives the sensor information, the defrosting requirement determining unit 1203 of the central server 100 determines the necessity of defrosting the window of the vehicle 2 as described above based on the received sensor information at step S918.

[0102] In a case where the defrosting requirement determination unit 1203 of the central server 100 determines that defrosting of the window of the vehicle 2 is necessary, the relay control device 1202 of the central server 100 transmits a notification (defrosting requirement notification) that defrosting of the window of the vehicle 2 is necessary to the terminal device 200 via the communication processing unit 1201 (an example of a transmission unit) at step S920.

[0103] Steps S922 to S938 are the same as steps S522 to S538 of Fig. 5 and therefore the description of it will not be repeated.

[0104] As described above, in the embodiment, the sensor information transmission unit 603 of the vehicle 2 transmits the sensor information to the central server 100 via the DCM 90, and the defrosting requirement determination unit 1203 of the central server 100 determines the necessity of defrosting the window of the vehicle 2. Then, in a case where the defrosting requirement determination unit 1203 determines that defrosting of the window of the vehicle 2 is necessary (specifically, in a case where the communication processing unit 2201 receives the defrosting requirement notification based on the determination from the central server 100), the defrosting request unit 2204 (notification unit) of the terminal device 200 notifies the user that defrosting of the window is necessary.Thus, with respect to the air conditioner remote start system 1 according to the second embodiment in which the function of the defrosting requirement determining unit 602 in the first embodiment is configured as the defrosting requirement determining unit 1203 of the central server 100, the same functional effects as in the first embodiment are obtained.

[0105] Although the mode for carrying out the invention has been described in detail above, the invention is not limited to such specific embodiments, and various modifications and changes may be made without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0106] Although in the above-described embodiment, a functional unit that determines whether defrosting of a window of the vehicle 2 is necessary is provided in the vehicle 2 (defrosting requirement determination unit 602) or the central server 100 (defrosting requirement determination unit 1203), a form may be provided in the terminal device 200. In the above-described case, the terminal device 200 can determine whether defrosting of a window of the vehicle 2 is necessary by receiving the sensor information (various information such as the detection signals of the room temperature sensor 30, the ambient temperature sensor 40, and the humidity sensor 45, the position information of the vehicle 2 from the GPS module 50, and the captured image of the passenger compartment camera 55) from the vehicle 2 via the central server 100 or the like.

[0107] Although in the above-described embodiment, the vehicle 2 includes the engine 70 as a power source, the vehicle 2 may include, for example, an electric motor as another power source instead of or in addition to the engine 70.

[0108] Although the air conditioner 10 (particularly, the compressor of the air conditioner 10) in the above-described embodiment is operated at least with the engine 70 as a power source, (the compressor of) the air conditioner 10 may be operated only with electric power supplied from a battery or a fuel cell (for example, a high-voltage battery or a fuel cell that supplies electric power to an electric motor as another power source mounted in the vehicle 2) mounted in the vehicle 2, without requiring the power of the engine 70. As described above, the remote assistance control device 802 starts the air conditioner 10 only according to the start request transmitted from the terminal 200 via the central server 100.In a case where a state of charge (SOC) of the battery or a remaining fuel amount of the fuel cell is less than or equal to a predetermined threshold (for example, a value set in advance as the minimum state of charge or the minimum remaining fuel amount necessary for driving the electric motor as the power source of the vehicle 2), the remote assist control device 802 may prohibit the start of the air conditioner 10 even though the DCM 90 receives the start request from the terminal 200 via the central server 100.

Claims

[1] Air conditioning remote control start system (1) comprising a user terminal (200), a central server (100) configured to communicate with the terminal (200), and a vehicle (2) comprising an air conditioning system (10) and configured to communicate with the central server (100), the air conditioning remote control start system (1) comprising: a first transmission unit (2201) provided in the terminal (200) and configured to transmit a start request of the air conditioner (10) to the central server (100); a first receiving unit (1201) provided in the central server (100) and configured to receive the start request from the terminal (200); a second transmission unit (1201) provided in the central server (100) and configured to transmit the start request received by the first reception unit (1201) to the vehicle (2); a second receiving unit (90) provided in the vehicle (2) and configured to receive the start request from the central server (100); a start control device (802) provided in the vehicle (2) and configured to start the air conditioner (10) when the second receiving unit (90) receives the start request; a determination unit (602, 1203) provided in one of the terminal (200), the central server (100) and the vehicle (2) and configured to determine the need for defrosting a window of the vehicle (2); a notification unit (2204) provided in the terminal (200) and configured to inform the user that defrosting of the window is necessary when the determination unit (602, 1203) determines that defrosting of the window is necessary; and a GPS module (50) configured to receive position information of the vehicle (2); wherein the determination unit (602, 1203) is configured to determine a possibility that ice is being generated and determine whether de-icing is necessary based on information relating to a current ice generation situation in each area or history information of past ice generation distributed from the central server (100) and the position information of the vehicle (2) received by the GPS module (50). [2] The air conditioner remote control start system (1) according to claim 1, wherein the notification unit (2204) is configured to indicate on a display (240) of the terminal device (200) that defrosting of the window is necessary and to display on the display (240) of the terminal device a selection operation screen to enable the user to select a predetermined mode provided for defrosting the air conditioner (10). [3] The air conditioning remote control start system (1) according to claim 1, further comprising a stop control device (802) provided in one of the terminal device (200), the central server (100), and the vehicle (2) and configured to stop the air conditioner (10) when a set time has elapsed after the start control device (802) starts the air conditioner (10), wherein: the first transmission unit (2201) is configured to transmit the start request including the set time for operating the air conditioner (10) to the central server (100); and the notification unit (2204) is configured to indicate on a display (240) of the terminal (200) that defrosting of the window is necessary and to display a change operation screen to enable the user to change the set time. [4] The air conditioner remote control start system (1) according to claim 2, wherein the predetermined mode includes a defrosting mode in which defrosting is performed by the air conditioner (10), a setting time changing mode in which a set time of the air conditioner (10) is changed, and a mode in which no countermeasure is taken upon notification that defrosting is necessary. [5] A central server (100) connected to be configured to communicate with a terminal (200) of a user and a vehicle (2) having an air conditioning system (10), the central server (100) being configured to receive a start request transmitted from the terminal (200) and transmit the start request to the vehicle (2) to start the air conditioning system (10), the central server (100) comprising: a determination unit (1203) configured to determine the need to defrost a window of the vehicle (2); and a transmission unit (1201) configured to transmit a notification that defrosting of the window is necessary to the terminal (200) when the determination unit (1203) determines that defrosting of the window is necessary, wherein the determination unit (1203) is configured to determine a possibility that ice is being generated and determine whether de-icing is necessary based on information relating to a current ice generation situation in each area or history information of past ice generation distributed from the central server (100) and position information of the vehicle (2) received by a GPS module (50) of the vehicle (2). [6] The central server (100) according to claim 5, wherein the determination unit (1203) is configured to determine whether de-icing is necessary based on sensor information transmitted from the vehicle (2).

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