Rental managing system

Abstract

To provide a rental managing system that enables, by a simpler configuration, a user of a rental vehicle to return the same at a site where the rental vehicle becomes unnecessary.SOLUTION: A rental managing system 10 according to the present disclosure includes: a server 12; and a first user terminal 11 of a user who attempts to return a rental vehicle. The first user terminal 11 transmits, to the server 12, image information representing the parking state of the rental vehicle at a site where the rental vehicle is returned. The server 12 determines, based on the received image information from the first user terminal 11, whether or not the site where the user returns the rental vehicle is an appropriate parking spot, and stores, in accordance with the determination result, position information on the site where the rental vehicle is returned.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a rental management system. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, ride-sharing services for rental vehicles such as cars, bicycles, and electrically-driven micromobility have become popular. In such ride-sharing services, users of rental vehicles must return the vehicles to a designated location, which is time-consuming.

[0003] Patent Document 1 discloses a bicycle dispatch and recovery system that allows users to return bicycles to a location where they are no longer needed. In the bicycle dispatch and recovery system disclosed in Patent Document 1, users return bicycles to a location where they are no longer needed, and a vehicle capable of carrying bicycles travels to that location to collect the bicycles. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] JP 2020-140399 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] In the bicycle dispatch and recovery system disclosed in the above-mentioned Patent Document 1, when a user requests a bicycle, the bicycle dispatch and recovery device owned by the bicycle management company inquires of each vehicle whether it is possible to recover the bicycle. The driver of the vehicle must respond to the inquiry by asking whether the bicycle can be recovered, which results in a complex system configuration with a lot of mutual communication within the system.

[0006] The present disclosure has been made in consideration of the above circumstances, and aims to provide a rental management system with a simpler configuration that enables users of rental vehicles to return the rental vehicles to a location where they are no longer needed. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The rental management system according to the present disclosure includes: A rental management system including a server and a first user terminal of a user returning a rental vehicle, The first user terminal, Transmitting image information showing a parking state of the rental vehicle at a location where the rental vehicle is to be returned to the server; The server, Based on the image information received from the first user terminal, determine whether the location where the user is to return the rental vehicle is an appropriate parking spot; Based on the result of the determination, the location information of the place where the rental vehicle is to be returned is stored.

[0008] The rental management system according to the present disclosure stores the location where the user no longer needs the rental vehicle based on image information showing the parking state of the rental vehicle. In this way, with a simpler configuration, the user can return the rental vehicle to the location where the user no longer needs the rental vehicle.

[0009] The rental management system according to the present disclosure includes: A rental management system including a server and a first user terminal of a user returning a rental vehicle, The first user terminal, acquiring image information showing a parking state of the rental vehicle at a location where the rental vehicle is to be returned; determining whether the location where the user is to return the rental vehicle is an appropriate parking spot based on the image information; Transmitting the determination result to the server; The server, Based on the result of the determination, location information of the place where the rental vehicle is to be returned is stored.

[0010] The rental management system according to the present disclosure stores the location where the user no longer needs the rental vehicle based on image information showing the parking state of the rental vehicle. In this way, with a simpler configuration, the user can return the rental vehicle to the location where the user no longer needs the rental vehicle. Effect of the Invention

[0011] The present disclosure makes it possible to provide a rental management system with a simpler configuration that allows users of rental vehicles to return the rental vehicles to a location where they are no longer needed. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1] 1 is a block diagram illustrating a rental management system according to a first embodiment. [Diagram 2] 1 is a detailed block diagram of a rental management system according to a first embodiment. [Diagram 3] 4 is a flowchart showing an example of a process executed by the rental management method according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] An overall view showing three parking locations. [Diagram 5] FIG. 2 shows images of each parking spot acquired by a first user terminal. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 shows images of each parking spot acquired by a first user terminal. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 shows images of each parking spot acquired by a first user terminal. [Figure 8] FIG. 11 is a block diagram illustrating a rental management system according to a second embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 4 is a detailed block diagram of a second user terminal. [Figure 10] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of a process executed by a rental management method according to a second embodiment. [Figure 11] 13 is a diagram showing a situation in which a user returns a rental vehicle and a new user uses or collects the vehicle. [Figure 12]FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a display screen of a first user terminal. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a display screen of a second user terminal. [Figure 14] FIG. 11 is a detailed block diagram of a server of the rental management system according to the second embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0013] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. In each drawing, the same or corresponding elements are denoted by the same reference numerals, and for clarity of explanation, duplicate explanations are omitted as necessary. In addition, some reference numerals are omitted so as not to make the drawings complicated. Naturally, the right-handed xyz Cartesian coordinate system shown in the drawings is for the convenience of explaining the positional relationship of the components. Usually, the positive direction of the z axis is vertically upward, and the xy plane is a horizontal plane.

[0014] (Embodiment 1) <Rental Management System> First, a rental management system 10 according to the first embodiment will be described. FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating the rental management system according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the rental management system 10 includes a first user terminal 11 and a server 12. The rental management system 10 allows a user of a rental vehicle to return the rental vehicle to a location where the vehicle is no longer needed, with a simpler configuration. A location where the rental vehicle is no longer needed refers to a location where the user has finished using the rental vehicle, no longer needs the rental vehicle, and wishes to return the vehicle.

[0015] In the following, rental vehicles refer to vehicles such as automobiles, bicycles, and electrically-driven micromobility. The rental management system 10 is, for example, a system that manages the use and return of rental vehicles in a shared ride service. In a shared ride service, there are ports, which are designated parking locations. At the ports, rental vehicle operating companies manage the rental vehicles and perform maintenance such as charging the rental vehicles or refilling them with gasoline. Below, a case will be described in which a user rents a rental vehicle from a port and returns the rental vehicle to a location other than the port where it is no longer needed. Naturally, the user may return the rental vehicle to the port.

[0016] The first user terminal 11 is a terminal owned by a user who returns a rental vehicle. For example, the first user terminal 11 is a terminal such as a smartphone of the user on which a specific application software is installed. The first user terminal 11 transmits image information showing the parking state of the rental vehicle at the location where the rental vehicle is to be returned to the server 12.

[0017] The image information showing the parking status of the rental vehicle includes information showing the surrounding environment of the parking spot and information showing the status of the parked rental vehicle. That is, the image information includes information for determining whether the place where the rental vehicle is to be returned is an appropriate parking spot. The image information also includes information showing the location of the parking spot.

[0018] The surrounding environment of the parking spot includes surrounding buildings, surrounding vehicles, surrounding nature, temperature, weather, road surface condition, and whether the location is easy to visually check. The state of the parked rental vehicle, in the case of micromobility or bicycles, includes the state of the stand and the state of the lights. In the case of automobiles, the state of the parked rental vehicle includes the open / closed state of the doors and side mirrors, the state of the lights, etc.

[0019] The server 12 judges whether the location where the user returns the rental vehicle is an appropriate parking spot based on the image information received from the first user terminal. For example, if the image information includes a state where the rental vehicle is easy to find and parked in a place that does not obstruct traffic, the server 12 judges that the parking condition of the rental vehicle is good and therefore the location where the user returns the rental vehicle is an appropriate parking spot.

[0020] On the other hand, if the image information includes a state in which the rental vehicle is parked in the middle of the roadway, the server 12 determines that the parking condition is not good and that the location where the user returns the rental vehicle is not an appropriate parking spot. Also, if the image information includes information that the state of the parked rental vehicle is not appropriate, the server 12 determines that the parking condition is not good and that the location where the user returns the rental vehicle is not an appropriate parking spot. The server 12, for example, analyzes the image information using AI (Artificial Intelligence) to determine whether the location where the user returns the rental vehicle is an appropriate parking spot.

[0021] Furthermore, the server 12 may determine whether or not to accept the return of the rental vehicle based on the determination result. More specifically, the server 12 accepts the return of the rental vehicle when it determines that the location where the user returns the rental vehicle is an appropriate parking spot. On the other hand, the server 12 does not accept the return of the rental vehicle when it determines that the location where the user returns the rental vehicle is not an appropriate parking spot.

[0022] Furthermore, the server 12 stores the location information of the place where the rental vehicle is to be returned based on the determination result. More specifically, when the server 12 determines that the place where the user is to return the rental vehicle is an appropriate parking spot, the server 12 stores the location information of the place where the user is to return the rental vehicle. On the other hand, when the server 12 determines that the place where the user is to return the rental vehicle is not an appropriate parking spot, the server 12 notifies the first user terminal 11 to acquire an image again. Also, the server 12 may be configured to notify the first user terminal 11 to change the return location when the user determines that the place where the user is to return the rental vehicle is not an appropriate parking spot. The location information stored by the server 12 may be location information based on image information or location information of the rental vehicle.

[0023] So far, a case has been described in which the server 12 receives image information from the first user terminal 11, analyzes the image information, determines whether the location where the user returns the rental vehicle is an appropriate parking spot, and stores the location information of the location where the user returns the rental vehicle based on the determination result. However, this is not limited to this, and the server 12 may receive a determination result from the first user terminal 11 indicating whether the location where the user returns the rental vehicle is an appropriate parking spot, and store the location information of the location where the user returns the rental vehicle based on the determination result. A more specific description will be given below.

[0024] First, the first user terminal 11 acquires image information showing the parking state of the rental vehicle at the location where the user returns the rental vehicle. Next, the first user terminal 11 judges whether or not the location where the user returns the rental vehicle is an appropriate parking spot based on the acquired image information. The first user terminal 11, like the server 12, judges whether or not the location where the user returns the rental vehicle is an appropriate parking spot by, for example, analyzing the image information using AI (Artificial Intelligence). Furthermore, like the server 12, the first user terminal 11 may judge whether or not to accept the return of the rental vehicle based on the judgment result. The first user terminal 11 transmits the judgment result to the server 12.

[0025] The server 12 stores the location information of the place where the rental vehicle is to be returned based on the judgment result. More specifically, when the server 12 receives the judgment result of the first user terminal 11 that the place where the user is to return the rental vehicle is an appropriate parking spot, the server 12 stores the location information of the place where the user is to return the rental vehicle. On the other hand, when the server 12 receives the judgment result of the first user terminal 11 that the place where the user is to return the rental vehicle is not an appropriate parking spot, the server 12 notifies the first user terminal 11 to acquire an image again. In addition, when the server 12 receives the judgment result of the first user terminal 11 that the parking spot is not an appropriate parking spot, the server 12 may be configured to notify the first user terminal 11 to change the return location.

[0026] That is, the server 12 performs the following processes. The server 12 receives image information from the first user terminal 11, analyzes the image information using AI, and determines whether the location where the user returns the rental vehicle is an appropriate parking spot. If the server 12 determines that the location where the user returns the rental vehicle is an appropriate parking spot, it stores the location information of the location where the user returns the rental vehicle. Alternatively, when the server 12 receives from the first user terminal 11 a judgment result that the location where the user is to return the rental vehicle is an appropriate parking spot, the server 12 stores the location information of the location where the user is to return the rental vehicle.

[0027] In this way, whether the location where the user returns the rental vehicle is an appropriate parking spot can be determined by either the first user terminal 11 or the server 12. In other words, when the first user terminal 11 performs the process of acquiring image information, the server 12 determines whether the parking spot is appropriate based on the image information. On the other hand, when the first user terminal 11 performs the process of acquiring image information and the process of determining whether the location where the user returns the rental vehicle is an appropriate parking spot, the server 12 stores the location information of the location where the user returns the rental vehicle based on the determination result received from the first user terminal 11.

[0028] Next, the rental management system 10 according to the first embodiment will be described in more detail with reference to Fig. 2. Fig. 2 is a detailed block diagram of the rental management system according to the first embodiment. Fig. 2 is a block diagram showing a case where the first user terminal 11 executes a process of acquiring image information, and the server 12 executes a process of determining whether or not the place to return the rental vehicle is an appropriate parking spot based on the image information.

[0029] As shown in FIG. 2, the first user terminal 11 includes an image information acquisition unit 21 and a transmission unit 31. The image information acquisition unit 21 acquires image information showing the parking state of the rental vehicle at the location where the rental vehicle is to be returned. The image information acquisition unit 21 acquires, for example, an image of the parked state of the rental vehicle taken using a camera possessed by the first user terminal 11. However, this is not limited to this, and the image information acquisition unit 21 may acquire, for example, an image of the parked state of the rental vehicle taken using a camera capable of communicating with the first user terminal 11. The transmission unit 31 transmits the image information acquired by the image information acquisition unit 21 to the server 12.

[0030] More specifically, after parking the rental vehicle in a parking spot, the user takes a photo of the rental vehicle using the first user terminal 11. The user then touches "Request to end use" displayed on the terminal. This causes the transmission unit 31 to transmit an image of the rental vehicle in its parked state to the server 12. Needless to say, the configuration may also be such that the user touches "Request to end use" before taking a photo, and the transmission unit 31 transmits an image of the rental vehicle in its parked state to the server 12.

[0031] 2, the server 12 includes a receiving unit 22, a determining unit 32, and a storage unit 42. The receiving unit 22 acquires, from the first user terminal 11, image information indicating the parking state of the rental vehicle at the location where the rental vehicle is to be returned.

[0032] The determination unit 32 determines whether or not the location where the user returns the rental vehicle is an appropriate parking spot based on the image information received by the receiving unit 22. Then, the memory unit 42 stores the location information of the location where the rental vehicle is to be returned when the determination unit 32 determines that the location where the rental vehicle is to be returned is an appropriate parking spot. The memory unit 42 stores information in, for example, a random access memory (RAM) or a read only memory (ROM) within the server 12. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the memory unit 42 may store information in, for example, a RAM or a ROM outside the server 12.

[0033] In this way, the rental management system 10 determines whether the parking spot is appropriate or not based on image information showing the parking state of the rental vehicle, and stores the location where the user no longer needs the rental vehicle. Therefore, with a simpler configuration, the user can return the rental vehicle to the location where it is no longer needed.

[0034] In addition, in the rental management system 10 according to the first embodiment, the rental vehicle can be returned to a location other than the designated port after use. This increases convenience and expands the range of uses. Furthermore, since the user only needs to acquire images using the first user terminal, even overseas travelers to Japan can use the system.

[0035] Furthermore, in the rental management system 10 of embodiment 1, even if the port where the vehicle is desired to park is full, the vehicle can be parked near the port, so there is no need to worry about the parking situation at the port when using a rental vehicle.

[0036] Although not shown in Fig. 2, when the first user terminal 11 performs a process of determining whether the location where the rental vehicle is to be returned is an appropriate parking spot, the first user terminal 11 is provided with a determination unit that determines whether the location where the rental vehicle is to be returned is an appropriate parking spot. The transmission unit 31 transmits the determination result indicating whether the location where the rental vehicle is to be returned is an appropriate parking spot to the server 12. In this case, the determination unit 32 of the server 12 is not necessary. By adopting such a configuration, it is possible to reduce the processing load of the server.

[0037] <Location information storage> Here, the server 12 may acquire GPS information of the rental vehicle and determine whether the location information included in the image information matches the GPS information of the rental vehicle. The image information acquired by the first user terminal 11 includes information indicating the location of the parking spot. Therefore, the server can determine whether the location information included in the image information matches the GPS information of the rental vehicle.

[0038] If the location information included in the image information matches the GPS information of the rental vehicle, the server 12 stores the GPS information of the rental vehicle as the location information of the location where the rental vehicle is to be returned. On the other hand, if the location information included in the image information does not match the GPS information of the rental vehicle, the server 12 notifies the first user terminal 11 to acquire images again. This configuration makes it possible to prevent fraudulent acts such as acquiring and using images from the Internet when a user returns a rental vehicle.

[0039] The server 12 may also periodically acquire GPS information of the rental vehicle to update and store the location information of the location where the rental vehicle was returned after the "application for termination of use". This configuration can prevent the loss of the rental vehicle when, for example, the rental vehicle is moved without a new application for termination of use after the application for termination of use.

[0040] <Rental management method> Next, a rental management method according to the embodiment 1 will be described. Fig. 3 is a flowchart showing an example of processing executed by the rental management method according to the embodiment 1. Fig. 3 is a flowchart showing a case where the first user terminal 11 executes processing to acquire image information, and the server 12 executes processing to determine whether or not the parking spot is appropriate based on the image information.

[0041] First, the first user terminal 11 acquires image information showing the parking status of the rental vehicle at the location where the rental vehicle is to be returned (step ST1). More specifically, the first user terminal 11 acquires image information showing the parking status of the rental vehicle photographed by a camera provided in the first user terminal 11.

[0042] Next, the first user terminal 11 transmits the acquired image information to the server 12 (step ST2).

[0043] Next, the server 12 acquires image information showing the parking state of the rental vehicle at the location where the rental vehicle is to be returned from the first user terminal 11 (step ST3).

[0044] Next, the server 12 judges whether the place where the user returns the rental vehicle is an appropriate parking spot based on the received image information (step ST4). More specifically, the server 12 judges whether the place where the user returns the rental vehicle is an appropriate parking spot by analyzing the image included in the image information using AI.

[0045] When the server 12 determines that the location where the user returns the rental vehicle is an appropriate parking spot (step ST4 YES), the server 12 stores the location information of the location where the user returns the rental vehicle (step ST5). More specifically, the server 12 stores the location information in, for example, a RAM (Random Access Memory), a ROM (Read Only Memory), or the like, inside or outside the server 12.

[0046] When the server 12 determines that the location where the user returns the rental vehicle is not an appropriate parking spot (step ST4NO), it notifies the first user terminal 11 to acquire an image again. As a result, the user acquires again, by the first user terminal 11, image information showing the parking state of the rental vehicle at the location where the rental vehicle is returned.

[0047] Although not shown in Figure 3, if the server 12 determines that the location where the user is returning the rental vehicle is not an appropriate parking spot for a predetermined number of times or more, the server 12 may notify the first user terminal 11 to change the return location.

[0048] In the rental management system 10 according to the first embodiment, the operation of the first user terminal such as the above-mentioned "application for termination of use" is performed using, for example, application software.

[0049] <Determining whether the parking condition is good or bad> Next, an example of determining whether parking is acceptable or not in the rental management system according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 4 to Fig. 7. Fig. 4 is an overall view showing three parking locations. Figs. 5 to 7 are views showing images of each parking location acquired by the first user terminal. Figs. 4 to 7 show the case of micromobility as the rental vehicle.

[0050] As shown in FIG. 4, a case will be described in which a user U1 parks micromobility M at three parking spots, S1 to S3. As shown in FIG. 4, a car C1 is passing nearby parking spot S1. Parking spot S2 is between buildings B1 and B2. Parking spot S3 is a bicycle parking area. Here, parking spots S1 and S2 are locations that are not recognized as parking spots, and parking spot S3 is a location that is recognized as a parking spot. With reference to FIG. 5 to FIG. 7, details will be described of the rental management system determining whether or not the location where the user returns the rental vehicle is recognized as an appropriate parking spot based on an image of each parking spot.

[0051] First, parking spot S1 will be described with reference to Fig. 5. At parking spot S1, cars are passing near micromobility M. Therefore, as shown in Fig. 5, the image acquired by the first user terminal shows a state in which car C1 is passing behind the parked micromobility M. In this case, the rental management system determines that parking spot S1 is not recognized as an appropriate parking spot because the surrounding environment of the parking spot is not a safe place.

[0052] Next, parking spot S2 will be described with reference to FIG. 6. At parking spot S2, micromobility M is located between buildings B1 and B2. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 6, the image acquired by the first user terminal is an image showing the state in which micromobility M is parked between buildings B1 and B2. In this case, the rental management system determines that parking spot S2 is a location that is not recognized as an appropriate parking spot because it is difficult for a new user to find. A new user is a person who will next use a rental vehicle after the previous user returns the rental vehicle.

[0053] Next, parking spot S3 will be described with reference to Fig. 7. Parking spot S3 is a bicycle parking area. Therefore, as shown in Fig. 7, the image acquired by the first user terminal is an image of bicycle bc1 parked behind the parked micromobility M. In this case, the rental management system determines that parking spot S3 is a place that is recognized as an appropriate parking spot because the surrounding environment of the parking spot is safe and it is easy for new users to find.

[0054] 5 to 7, an example has been described in which it is determined whether the location where the user returns the rental vehicle is an appropriate parking spot based on the surrounding environment of the parking spot included in the image information. However, this is not limited to this, and it may be determined whether the location where the user returns the rental vehicle is an appropriate parking spot based on at least one of the surrounding environment of the parking spot included in the image information and the state of the parked rental vehicle.

[0055] (Embodiment 2) <Second user terminal> Next, a rental management system according to the second embodiment will be described. FIG. 8 is a block diagram illustrating a rental management system according to the second embodiment. FIG. 9 is a detailed block diagram of a second user terminal. As shown in FIG. 8, the rental management system 20 includes a first user terminal 11, a server 12, and a second user terminal 13. The rental management system 20 is wirelessly connected to a rental vehicle RV1 and is configured to be able to communicate with the rental vehicle RV1. The first user terminal 11 and the server 12 are similar to those of the rental management system 10 according to the first embodiment, and therefore their description will be omitted. Here, the second user terminal 13 will be described.

[0056] In the following, a user is a person who, after finishing using a rental vehicle, returns the rental vehicle to a location where it is no longer needed. A new user is a person who will use the rental vehicle next after the previous user returns it. More specifically, a new user is a person who uses or collects a rental vehicle returned by a user. Use refers to the act of a new user renting a rental vehicle returned by a previous user and returning the rental vehicle to a location where it is no longer needed. Collection refers to the act of a new user returning a rental vehicle to a port or returning a rental vehicle to a location where other users frequently rent vehicles.

[0057] In the rental management system 20, the server's memory stores location information of the rental vehicle and information indicating the characteristics of the rental vehicle. The characteristics of the rental vehicle include information about the rental vehicle, such as the license plate, remaining charge, driving distance, and the number used to manage the vehicle. The characteristics of the rental vehicle also include the surrounding environment of the parking spot. The server acquires and stores information indicating the characteristics of the rental vehicle by analyzing an image received from the first user terminal. The image analysis is performed, for example, using AI. The server also acquires and stores information indicating the characteristics of the rental vehicle by receiving it from the rental vehicle.

[0058] The second user terminal 13 is a terminal owned by a new user who uses or collects a rental vehicle that the previous user has finished using. For example, the second user terminal 13 is a terminal such as a user's smartphone on which a specific application software is installed, similar to the first user terminal. As shown in FIG. 9, the second user terminal 13 includes a display unit 33 and an identification unit 34. The display unit 33 displays the location information of the place where the rental vehicle is to be returned, which is stored by the server. This allows the new user to find a place to use or collect the rental vehicle that the previous user has finished using.

[0059] More specifically, the new user touches "Start using" on the second user terminal to access the server's memory and display the location information of the memory. Operations of the second user terminal, such as "Start using," are performed using application software, for example, in the same way as the first user terminal.

[0060] The identification unit 34 identifies the rental vehicle based on the information indicating the characteristics of the rental vehicle. At the location of the rental vehicle where the previous user has finished using it, the new user takes a picture of the rental vehicle using the second user terminal. The identification unit 34 calculates the information indicating the characteristics of the rental vehicle from the acquired image. The identification unit 34 accesses the memory unit of the server and identifies rental vehicles having the same characteristics as the calculated information indicating the characteristics of the rental vehicle.

[0061] When the identification unit 34 identifies a rental vehicle having the same characteristics as the calculated information indicating the rental vehicle characteristics, the identification unit 34 may display the license plate of the identified rental vehicle on the display unit 33. This allows the new user to identify the rental vehicle. Since the identification unit 34 identifies the rental vehicle based on the rental vehicle characteristics, when multiple rental vehicles are nearby, the new user can easily identify the rental vehicle.

[0062] <Rental management method> Next, a rental management method according to the second embodiment will be described. Fig. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing executed by the rental management method according to the second embodiment. In Fig. 10, the processing of the first user terminal and the server (steps ST1 to ST5) is similar to that of the rental management method according to the first embodiment shown in Fig. 3, and therefore the description will be omitted. Here, the processing after step ST5, i.e., steps ST6 and ST7 will be described.

[0063] When the server stores the location information of the place where the rental vehicle is to be returned (step ST5), the second user terminal accesses the server to display the location information of the place where the rental vehicle is to be returned stored by the server (step ST6). This allows a new user to search for a place to use or collect the rental vehicle that the previous user has finished using.

[0064] The second user terminal then identifies the rental vehicle based on the information indicating the characteristics of the rental vehicle, allowing the new user to identify the rental vehicle, and allowing the new user to use or retrieve the rental vehicle.

[0065] <Use or Recovery> Next, with reference to Figs. 11 to 13, a more specific description will be given of the process until a new user uses or retrieves a rental vehicle in the rental management system according to the second embodiment. Fig. 11 is a diagram showing a state in which a user returns a rental vehicle and a new user uses or retrieves the vehicle. Fig. 12 is a diagram showing a display screen of a first user terminal. Fig. 13 is a diagram showing a display screen of a second user terminal. Below, the display configurations of the first user terminal and the second user terminal will be described, and a description will be given of the process until a new user uses or retrieves the micromobility M.

[0066] First, the display configuration of the first user terminal 11 will be described. As shown in Fig. 12, the first user terminal 11 displays an image I1 of the micromobility M to be returned by the user, a touch panel T1 that can transmit the image I1 to a server, and a touch panel T2 that can be used to re-photograph the rental vehicle to be returned by the user. Fig. 12 also shows an enlarged view of a portion of the micromobility M, and the management number of the micromobility M is assumed to be 100.

[0067] In FIG. 12, touch panels T1 and T2 are displayed on the first user terminal 11, but this is not limited to this, and if the location is not recognized as a parking spot, the first user terminal 11 may display a message such as "Please move to another location and park."

[0068] Next, the display configuration of the second user terminal will be described. As shown in Fig. 13, the second user terminal displays an image I2 taken to identify a rental vehicle to be used or collected by a new user. Also, as shown in Fig. 13, the second user terminal displays a touch panel T3 that can start identifying a rental vehicle, and a touch panel T4 that unlocks the micromobility M. Furthermore, Fig. 13 also displays an image I1 taken by the user, location information L2 indicating the location where the user returned the micromobility M, and details D2 of the micromobility M.

[0069] In Figure 13, details D2 of the micromobility M display the management number and surrounding vehicles, but this is not limited to this, and it is also possible to display the license plate, remaining charge, the time used by the previous user, and the distance that can be traveled.

[0070] The image I1 taken by the user, location information of where the user returned the micromobility M, and details of the micromobility M may be displayed on the second user terminal after a predetermined time has elapsed. After the predetermined time has elapsed, detailed information of the user's micromobility M may be displayed on the second user terminal, allowing new users to use or collect the micromobility M on a first-come, first-served basis. This configuration can reduce problems with competing for the micromobility M when there are multiple new users.

[0071] Next, a process up to when a new user uses or collects the micromobility M will be described. As shown in FIG. 11, a case will be described in which a user U1 parks the micromobility M at a parking spot S3. The parking spot S3 is a bicycle parking area and is a location recognized as a parking spot. A bicycle bc2 is parked at the parking spot S3.

[0072] First, as shown in Fig. 11, user U1 parks micromobility M at parking spot S3. User U1 uses the first user terminal to photograph micromobility M and obtains image I1 shown in Fig. 12. User U1 transmits image I1 to the server by operating touch panel T1 displayed on the first user terminal 11 shown in Fig. 12.

[0073] The server judges whether the parking spot S3 is recognized as a parking spot. Details are the same as in Fig. 7, so the explanation will be omitted. Here, the explanation will be continued assuming that the parking spot S3 is a place recognized as a parking spot.

[0074] When user U1 has completed returning the micromobility M, image I1, location information where the user returned the micromobility M, and details of the micromobility M are displayed, as shown in Fig. 13. A new user U2 searches for the micromobility M that the user has finished using, based on the location information where the micromobility M was returned and the details of the micromobility M, and moves to the area around the micromobility M.

[0075] The new user U2 uses the second user terminal 13 to identify the micromobility M. More specifically, the new user U2 starts identifying the micromobility M by operating the touch panel T3 displayed on the second user terminal 13 shown in FIG.

[0076] A new user U2 acquires image I2 shown in FIG. 13 by photographing micromobility M using the camera of the second user terminal. Then, the identification unit of the second user terminal 13 determines whether the management number of micromobility M in image I2 is 100 or not. For the determination, for example, image analysis using AI is used. If the management number of micromobility M is 100, a touch panel T4 for unlocking micromobility M shown in FIG. 13 is displayed.

[0077] The new user U2 can unlock the micromobility M used by user U1 by operating the touch panel T4 displayed on the second user terminal 13 shown in Fig. 13. This allows the new user U2 to use or collect the micromobility M.

[0078] Also, the new user U2 may be configured not to be able to unlock and use the micromobility M unless the second user terminal identifies the micromobility M. This makes it possible to prevent the new user U2 from mistakenly using or collecting a micromobility M different from the micromobility M he or she wishes to rent when there are multiple micromobilities M in the vicinity.

[0079] When the new user U2 finishes using or collecting the micromobility M, he / she submits a "use termination application" or a "collection termination application" for the micromobility M. The detailed method of the "use termination application" or the "collection termination application" is similar to that of the first user terminal of the rental management system 10 according to the first embodiment, and therefore the explanation will be omitted.

[0080] Although not shown in Fig. 12 and Fig. 13, the first user terminal and the second user terminal may be configured to select and display the time to rent a rental vehicle. By configuring in this way, a rental vehicle can be reserved and used.

[0081] The second user terminal 13 may display guidance to a charging point when the micromobility M rented by the new user U2 cannot travel to the port. By configuring in this way, the user can use the rental vehicle without running out of charge.

[0082] In this way, in the rental management system of embodiment 2, the user returns the rental vehicle to a location where it is no longer needed, and the second user terminal can obtain the location information and detailed information of the rental vehicle. This allows the new user to travel to the location of the rental vehicle. In addition, the second user terminal identifies the rental vehicle based on the information indicating the characteristics of the rental vehicle. This allows the new user to use or collect the rental vehicle at the location where the previous user no longer needs it.

[0083] In other words, the rental management system 20 allows a user of a rental vehicle to return the rental vehicle to a location where it is no longer needed, with a simpler configuration. Also, the rental management system 20 allows a new user to use or collect a rental vehicle that has been used by a user and is no longer needed, with a simpler configuration.

[0084] Furthermore, in the rental management system according to the second embodiment, rental vehicles that are no longer needed by a user can be used by a new user or collected, thereby reducing operating costs.

[0085] <Incentive Decision> Here, in the rental management system according to the second embodiment, an incentive may be given to a new user. An incentive is a benefit that makes a user more likely to use the shared ride service. The incentive may be, for example, the next rental is free, driving a certain distance is free, or the acquired incentive can be exchanged for a product. The incentive does not have to be uniform and may be determined for each use or collection. Also, the incentive can be allocated to other people. Also, a configuration may be adopted in which an incentive is given when a new user collects a rental vehicle, and no incentive is given when the rental vehicle is used.

[0086] In addition, an incentive may be provided when a new user performs a predetermined use or recovery that promotes the ride-sharing service. The predetermined use or recovery that promotes the ride-sharing service is, for example, an act of returning a rental vehicle to a location where the user frequently uses the rental vehicle, an act of returning a rental vehicle with low charge or gasoline to a port, etc. Other examples of the predetermined use or recovery that promotes the ride-sharing service include an act of charging or refilling a rental vehicle with gasoline before returning it, performing a predetermined number of recoveries within a predetermined period of time, introducing the ride-sharing service to others, etc.

[0087] The configuration of the server when granting an incentive to a new user will be described. Fig. 14 is a detailed block diagram of the server of the rental management system according to the second embodiment. As shown in Fig. 14, the server includes a receiving unit 22, a determining unit 32, a memory unit 42, an incentive determining unit 52, and a transmitting unit 62. The receiving unit 22, the determining unit 32, and the memory unit 42 are the same as those of the server of the rental management system according to the first embodiment, and therefore their description will be omitted. Here, the incentive determining unit 52 and the transmitting unit 62 will be described.

[0088] The incentive determination unit 52 calculates statistical data on the place where the rental vehicle is to be returned from the location information of the place where the rental vehicle is to be returned. Then, the incentive determination unit 52 determines an incentive to be given to a new user who uses or collects the rental vehicle based on the statistical data.

[0089] The transmitting unit 62 transmits the location information of the place where the rental vehicle is to be returned and the information on the incentive determined by the incentive determining unit 52 to the second user terminal.

[0090] The statistical data includes locations where users frequently return rental vehicles, locations where users frequently or infrequently use rental vehicles, etc. The incentive determination unit 52 may also calculate the statistical data for each season or time period. By the incentive determination unit 52 calculating the statistical data, new ports can be efficiently installed.

[0091] For example, the incentive determination unit 52 calculates statistical data showing that the parking spot S3 shown in Fig. 11 is a place where users frequently return rental vehicles. In this case, when a new user collects a rental vehicle that has been returned to another location and returns it to the parking spot S3, the incentive determination unit 52 grants the new user a larger incentive than usual. In this way, the incentive can be increased for collections that promote the ride-sharing service.

[0092] Here, a penalty may be imposed if the user or new user does not return the rental vehicle to the appropriate location. The penalty may be, for example, not being able to use the vehicle for a certain period of time, an increase in rental fee, or deduction of incentives. The penalty does not have to be uniform, but may be determined for each use or collection. A penalty may also be imposed if the user does not rent the vehicle on time.

[0093] In addition, if the user or a new user leaves the rental vehicle in an appropriate location without returning it, the vehicle may be collected by a tow truck, car, or other vehicle that can carry the vehicle.

[0094] Furthermore, if a user or a new user leaves a rental vehicle at an appropriate location without returning it, a notification may be sent from the server to the terminal of the other user, so that the user who receives the notification may collect the abandoned rental vehicle and an incentive may be given to the user who collected the vehicle.

[0095] In addition, a user who uses or collects more than a predetermined number of times may be considered a good member, and an incentive such as a discount on the rental fee for the following month may be given to such a paid member.

[0096] If a user does not rent a vehicle on time, the server may notify the other users' terminals so that the user who receives the notification may use the rental vehicle, and an incentive may be given to the user who uses the rental vehicle.

[0097] In this way, the rental management system according to the second embodiment can determine an incentive for each use or collection based on statistical data.

[0098] In addition, a part or all of the processing in the rental management systems 10 and 20 described above can be realized as a computer program. Such a program can be stored and supplied to a computer using various types of non-transitory computer-readable media. The non-transitory computer-readable media includes various types of tangible recording media. Examples of the non-transitory computer-readable media include magnetic recording media (e.g., flexible disks, magnetic tapes, hard disk drives), magneto-optical recording media (e.g., magneto-optical disks), CD-ROMs (Read Only Memory), CD-Rs, CD-R / Ws, and semiconductor memories (e.g., mask ROMs, PROMs (Programmable ROMs), EPROMs (Erasable PROMs), flash ROMs, and RAMs (Random Access Memory)). The program may also be supplied to a computer by various types of temporary computer-readable media. Examples of the temporary computer-readable media include electrical signals, optical signals, and electromagnetic waves. The temporary computer-readable media can supply the program to a computer via wired communication paths such as electric wires and optical fibers, or wireless communication paths.

[0099] While the present disclosure has been described above in accordance with the above-described embodiment, the present disclosure is not limited to the configuration of the above-described embodiment, and naturally includes various modifications, alterations, and combinations that may be made by a person skilled in the art within the scope of the claims of the present application. [Explanation of symbols]

[0100] 10, 20 Rental management system 11 First user terminal 12 Server 13 Second User Terminal 21 Image information acquisition unit 22 Receiving section 31 Transmitter 32 Judgment section 33 Display section 34 Specific part 42 Storage section 52 Incentive Decision Department 62 Transmitter bc1, bc2 Bicycle C1 car D2 details I1, I2 images L2 location information M Micromobility RV1 Rental Vehicle S1, S2, S3 Parking spots T1, T2, T3, T4 Touch Panel U1 user U2 New Users

Claims

1. A rental management system including a server and a first user terminal of a user returning a rental vehicle, The first user terminal, Transmitting image information showing a parking state of the rental vehicle at a location where the rental vehicle is to be returned to the server; The server, Based on the image information received from the first user terminal, determine whether the location where the user is to return the rental vehicle is an appropriate parking location; storing location information of a place to return the rental vehicle based on the determination result; Rental management system.

2. The server, determining whether the location where the user is to return the rental vehicle is an appropriate parking location based on at least one of the surrounding environment of the parking location and the state of the parked rental vehicle contained in the image information; The rental management system according to claim 1 .

3. A second user terminal of a new user who uses or collects the rental vehicle that the user has finished using is further provided. The second user terminal, accessing the server to display location information of a place where the rental vehicle is to be returned; Identifying the rental vehicle based on information indicating a characteristic of the rental vehicle; The rental management system according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The server, Calculating statistical data regarding the location where the rental vehicle is to be returned from location information of the location where the rental vehicle is to be returned; determining an incentive to be given to the new user who uses or retrieves the rental vehicle based on the statistical data; The rental management system according to claim 3 .

5. A rental management system including a server and a first user terminal of a user returning a rental vehicle, The first user terminal, acquiring image information showing a parking state of the rental vehicle at a location where the rental vehicle is to be returned; determining whether the location where the user is to return the rental vehicle is an appropriate parking spot based on the image information; Transmitting the determination result to the server; The server, storing location information of a location where the rental vehicle is to be returned based on the result of the determination; Rental management system.

Images