Vehicle identification method and vehicle identification system

Abstract

To propose a technique capable of properly securing reliability and safety concerning a technique for identifying a vehicle based on an action of the vehicle.SOLUTION: A vehicle identification method includes: generating information indicating a second action from information indicating a first action with the use of a first key in a management system; transmitting the information indicating the second action to an object vehicle from the management system; restoring the information indicating the first action from the information indicating the second action with the use of a second key associated with the first key in the object vehicle; allowing the object vehicle to execute the first action; detecting the action to be executed by the vehicle with the use of a sensor in the management system; and identifying the vehicle for executing the first action as the object vehicle and not identifying the vehicle for executing the second action as the object vehicle in the management system.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a technique for identifying a target vehicle. [Background technology]

[0002] Identifying the target vehicle is important for vehicle management and control functions. For example, in Auto Valet Parking (AVP) in parking lots, it is required to identify the target vehicle of AVP from the viewpoint of functional reliability and safety.

[0003] Patent Document 1 discloses a vehicle authentication method in a parking lot as a technology for identifying a target vehicle. The vehicle authentication method disclosed in Patent Document 1 transmits information instructing the target vehicle to perform a predetermined action, checks whether the vehicle in the parking lot has performed the predetermined action, and authenticates the vehicle that has performed the predetermined action as the target vehicle and performs localization.

[0004] Other documents that demonstrate the technical level of this technical field include the following Patent Documents 2 to 4. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] U.S. Pat. No. 10,532,771 [Patent Document 2] JP 2003-101530 A [Patent Document 3] JP 2015-005970 A [Patent Document 4] JP 2018-142823 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] According to the technology disclosed in Patent Document 1, a vehicle that has performed a predetermined action according to the transmitted information is identified as a target vehicle. However, there is a possibility that a malicious third party may intercept the information transmitted to the target vehicle and cause an unrelated vehicle that is not the target vehicle to perform a predetermined action. In this case, there is a risk that an unrelated vehicle may be identified as a target vehicle. This is undesirable from the viewpoint of functional reliability and safety. Thus, conventional technology for identifying vehicles based on the actions of the vehicles has had problems in terms of reliability and safety.

[0007] One object of the present disclosure is to provide a technology that can more appropriately ensure reliability and safety in a technology for identifying a vehicle based on the vehicle's actions in consideration of the above-mentioned problems. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] The first to fourth disclosures each relate to a vehicle identification method.

[0009] A vehicle identification method according to a first disclosure includes: generating information indicating a second action from information indicating the first action using the first key in the management system; transmitting information indicating a second action from the management system to the target vehicle; Restoring, in the target vehicle, information indicating the first action from information indicating the second action using a second key associated with the first key; having the target vehicle execute a first action; Detecting, in the management system, an action performed by a vehicle using a sensor; In the management system, a vehicle that executes a first action is identified as a target vehicle, and a vehicle that executes a second action is not identified as a target vehicle; Includes.

[0010] A vehicle identification method according to a second disclosure includes: transmitting information indicating both the first action and the second action from the management system to the target vehicle; causing the target vehicle to execute only the first action without causing the target vehicle to execute the second action; and Detecting, in the management system, an action performed by a vehicle using a sensor; In the management system, a vehicle that performs a first action without performing a second action is identified as a target vehicle, and a vehicle that performs both the first action and the second action is not identified as a target vehicle; Includes.

[0011] A vehicle identification method according to a third disclosure includes: Transmitting information on a plurality of elements constituting the target action from the management system to the target vehicle via each of a plurality of different communication paths separately; causing a target vehicle to execute a target action including all of the plurality of elements; Detecting, in the management system, an action performed by a vehicle using a sensor; In the management system, a vehicle that executes a target action including all of the multiple elements is identified as a target vehicle, and a vehicle that executes an action that does not include at least one of the multiple elements is not identified as a target vehicle. Includes.

[0012] A vehicle identification method according to a fourth disclosure includes: transmitting information of a target action including a plurality of actions successive in time from the management system to the target vehicle; causing a target vehicle to execute a target action; Detecting, in the management system, an action performed by a vehicle using a sensor; In the management system, comparing the detected action with a plurality of actions, and identifying the vehicle as a target vehicle when a predetermined number or more of the plurality of actions are detected. Includes.

[0013] The fifth to eighth disclosures relate to a vehicle identification system. The vehicle identification system according to the fifth to eighth disclosures includes a management system capable of communicating with a target vehicle.

[0014] In the vehicle identification system according to the fifth disclosure, the management system generates information indicating the second action from the information indicating the first action using the first key; The management system transmits information indicating the second action to the target vehicle; the target vehicle restores the information indicating the first action from the information indicating the second action using a second key associated with the first key, and executes the first action; The management system detects actions taken by the vehicle using sensors, The management system identifies a vehicle that performs the first action as a target vehicle and does not identify a vehicle that performs the second action as a target vehicle.

[0015] In the vehicle identification system according to the sixth disclosure, The management system transmits information indicating both the first action and the second action to the target vehicle; The target vehicle will perform only the first action without performing the second action, The management system detects actions taken by the vehicle using sensors, The management system identifies as target vehicles those vehicles that perform the first action without performing the second action, and does not identify as target vehicles those vehicles that perform both the first action and the second action.

[0016] In the vehicle identification system according to the seventh disclosure, The management system transmits information on a plurality of elements constituting the target action to the target vehicle separately via each of a plurality of different communication paths; The target vehicle executes a target action that includes all of the multiple elements; The management system detects actions taken by the vehicle using sensors, The management system identifies a vehicle that performs a target action that includes all of the multiple elements as a target vehicle, and does not identify a vehicle that performs an action that does not include at least one of the multiple elements as a target vehicle.

[0017] In the vehicle identification system according to the eighth disclosure, The management system sweeps up information of a target action including multiple actions that are consecutive in time; The target vehicle executes the target action, The management system detects actions taken by the vehicle using sensors, The management system compares the detected action with a plurality of actions, and identifies the vehicle as a target vehicle if a predetermined number or more of the plurality of actions are detected. Effect of the Invention

[0018] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to more appropriately ensure reliability and safety with respect to technology for identifying vehicles based on the actions of the vehicles. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0019] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram for explaining Auto Valet Parking (AVP) in a parking lot. [Diagram 2] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of a configuration of a management system. [Diagram 3] FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram for explaining an overview of a conventionally proposed action-based identification method. [Figure 4] 1 is a conceptual diagram for explaining an overview of a vehicle identification method according to a first embodiment. FIG. [Diagram 5] 3A to 3C are diagrams illustrating an example of a first action and a second action in the vehicle identification method according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of a vehicle identification system according to an embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a processing flow of the vehicle identification method according to the first embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a configuration of a vehicle identification system according to a modified example of the first embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a process flow of a vehicle identification method according to a modified example of the first embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 11 is a conceptual diagram for explaining an overview of a vehicle identification method according to a second embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a process flow of a vehicle identification method according to a second embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 11 is a conceptual diagram for explaining an overview of a vehicle identification method according to a third embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a process flow of a vehicle identification method according to the third embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 13 is a conceptual diagram for explaining an overview of a vehicle identification method according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 13 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of a vehicle identification method according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a process flow of a vehicle identification method according to a fourth embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0020] Functions that provide control and services for target vehicles in a specified area where vehicles enter and exit are being considered. One such function is Auto Valet Parking (AVP) in parking lots. AVP automatically drives target vehicles in and out of parking lots. Other examples include a function that uses a transport device to carry target vehicles in and out of garages.

[0021] FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram for explaining AVP. The management system 100 manages the AVP in the area 2 (parking lot). The management system 100 includes a sensor 150 installed in the area 2. The sensor 150 detects the position and state of each vehicle 1 in the area 2. The management system 100 manages information of each vehicle 1 based on detection information acquired using the sensor 150. The management system 100 then communicates with a target vehicle in the area 2 and implements AVP for the target vehicle. More specifically, the management system 100 transmits command information regarding the AVP to the target vehicle based on management data regarding each vehicle 1 and the area 2. The AVP is implemented by controlling the target vehicle according to the command information received by the control system of the target vehicle. Similarly, a function for providing control and services to other target vehicles (hereinafter referred to as "functions such as AVP") is also implemented by cooperation between the management system 100 and the control system of the vehicle 1.

[0022] It is assumed that functions such as AVP are generally provided across multiple areas 2. Therefore, the management system 100 may be configured as follows. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the management system 100. The management system 100 is configured to include multiple local management devices 110a provided in multiple areas 2, and a center management device 110b that manages the multiple local management devices 110a. Each local management device 110a manages functions in the corresponding area 2. Each local management device 110a is communicably connected to a sensor 150 in the corresponding area 2. In addition, each local management device 110a is configured to be communicable with a vehicle 1 in the corresponding area 2 via a wireless LAN or the like. The center management device 110b manages information across multiple areas 2. For example, the center management device 110b manages user information, optimizes the entire multiple areas 2, and the like. The center management device 110b is communicably connected to the multiple local management devices 110a via a communication network 3 (for example, the Internet). The center management device 110 b may be configured to be capable of communicating with the vehicle 1 via the communication network 3 .

[0023] In the above-mentioned functions such as AVP, it is required to identify the target vehicle from the viewpoint of reliability and safety (identification can also be called authentication). For example, consider the case where a user is going to use AVP to store vehicle 1, taking FIG. 1 as an example. The user stops vehicle 1 (target vehicle) to be stored at storage position 2a and requests AVP. Here, the target vehicle is identified to confirm whether vehicle 1 at storage position 2a is really vehicle 1 (target vehicle) of a legitimate user. If vehicle identification is successful, vehicle 1 at storage position 2a is determined to be a legitimate vehicle (target vehicle). After it is determined to be a legitimate vehicle, AVP is started and the target vehicle is stored. Therefore, by performing identification of the target vehicle normally, only legitimate vehicles can be allowed to store. Conversely, if the target vehicle is not identified, there is a risk that an unrelated vehicle that is not a target vehicle will be stored. This is problematic from the viewpoint of reliability and safety. In this way, for functions such as AVP, identifying the target vehicle is important to ensure reliability and safety.

[0024] The vehicle identification method according to the embodiment can be used to identify a target vehicle in a function such as AVP. In particular, the vehicle identification method according to the embodiment is one of the methods (hereinafter, referred to as an "action-based identification method") in which a target vehicle is made to execute an action, and identification is performed based on whether or not the action matches an expected action (expected action).

[0025] Here, an action is defined by a combination of a device (means) that executes the action and the operation pattern of the device. Devices that execute an action include lighting devices (headlights, brake lights, fog lights, etc.), interior lighting devices, horns, turn signals, windshield wipers, doors, door windows, engines, electric motors, etc.

[0026] For example, one of the actions of vehicle 1 is to switch the headlights on and off in a specified pattern. For example, one of the actions of vehicle 1 is to flash the left and right turn lights of the direction indicator in a specified pattern. For example, one of the actions of vehicle 1 is to operate the windshield wipers in a specified pattern. For example, one of the actions of vehicle 1 is to open and close the doors and door windows in a specified pattern. For example, one of the actions of vehicle 1 is to sound the horn in a specified pattern. For example, one of the actions of vehicle 1 is to start the engine (rev the engine) in a specified pattern.

[0027] The operation pattern may be represented, for example, by a signal indicating an operation state of the device in a time series. Alternatively, the operation pattern may be represented by a signal indicating a sequence of the operation states of the device. An action may include a request for repetition of the operation pattern. Also, one action may include operation patterns of multiple devices.

[0028] In the action-based identification method, the management system 100 needs to detect the action of the vehicle 1 using the sensor 150. For this reason, the sensor 150 is configured to be able to detect at least the action that is expected to be performed by the vehicle. For example, when a visually detectable visible action (an action related to the lighting of the lighting device, an action related to the operation of the wipers, etc.) is expected, the sensor 150 is configured to include a sensor capable of detecting visual information such as a camera, a LiDAR (Light Detection And Ranging), an illuminance sensor, etc. Also, for example, when an audible action (an action related to the sounding of a horn, an action related to the driving of an engine or an electric motor, etc.) is expected, the sensor 150 is configured to include a sensor capable of detecting auditory information such as a microphone.

[0029] The action-based identification method has advantages such as a degree of freedom in the actions used for identification and a high degree of variability in the identification method. However, the action-based identification method basically requires transmitting information about the action to the target vehicle. Therefore, the transmitted information may be read by wiretapping. For this reason, the action-based identification method proposed in the past (for example, the method disclosed in Patent Document 1) anticipates a situation in which an unrelated vehicle that is not the target vehicle is identified as the target vehicle. Below, a brief description of the action-based identification method proposed in the past will be given as a comparative example.

[0030] Fig. 3 is a diagram showing an overview of the conventional method. In the conventional method, first, information indicating a predetermined action is transmitted from the management system 100 to the target vehicle. Next, the target vehicle is caused to perform the predetermined action. Next, the management system 100 detects the action performed by the vehicle 1 using the sensor 150. Then, the management system 100 identifies the vehicle 1 performing the predetermined action as the target vehicle.

[0031] When the conventional method is applied, a third party can read the predetermined action by intercepting the communication. Therefore, there is a risk that the third party will make an unrelated vehicle execute the read predetermined action. Moreover, in the conventional method, the action of transmitting information and the action for identifying the vehicle as a target vehicle are the same predetermined action. Therefore, in this case, even though the target vehicle is identified, the unrelated vehicle will be identified as a target vehicle. This may cause a situation in which an unrelated vehicle enters the warehouse in the AVP, for example. Thus, the conventional method still has problems in terms of reliability and safety.

[0032] In the action-based identification method, the action performed by the vehicle 1 is detected using the sensor 150. Then, the identification is performed based on whether or not the detected action matches the expected action. However, in the action-based identification method, the sensor 150 may experience a temporary slowdown in processing or a recognition error. If a temporary slowdown in processing or a recognition error occurs, some of the detected actions may not accurately reflect the actions that were actually performed. For this reason, there is a risk that a vehicle 1 that is actually performing an expected action may not be identified as a target vehicle. This also poses a problem in terms of reliability.

[0033] The present disclosure proposes a method for solving the above problems. In the following, several embodiments of a vehicle identification method will be described in detail.

[0034] 1. First embodiment 1.1 Overview FIG. 4 is a conceptual diagram for explaining an overview of the vehicle identification method according to the first embodiment (hereinafter simply referred to as the "first vehicle identification method").

[0035] In the first vehicle identification method, the management system 100 manages a first action. The first action may be selected from a plurality of managed candidate actions. Alternatively, the first action may be selected according to the target vehicle from a plurality of actions managed for each vehicle 1. Furthermore, the first action may be selected according to the user related to the target vehicle from a plurality of actions managed for each user.

[0036] First, in the first vehicle identification method, in the management system 100, information indicating a second action is generated from information indicating a first action by using a first key.

[0037] The first key is typically an encryption key for performing encryption according to a predetermined encryption method. That is, in this case, the information indicating the second action is generated by encrypting the information indicating the first action. For example, the information indicating the second action is information obtained by modifying the information indicating the first action by encrypting the information related to the motion pattern. The encryption of the information related to the motion pattern is performed, for example, by inverting the bit information, shifting the bit information, changing the pulse width, or a combination of these.

[0038] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of the first action and the second action in the first vehicle identification method. In FIG. 5, the blinking patterns (operation patterns) of the left and right turn lights of the direction indicator are shown for each of the first action and the second action. In FIG. 5, the blinking pattern related to the second action is modified by encryption with respect to the blinking pattern related to the first action. Furthermore, the information indicating the second action does not have to be generated directly by encryption. For example, the information related to the operation pattern of the first action may be encoded, and the encoded information may be encrypted by the first key. Then, the information indicating the second action may be generated by decoding the code of the ciphertext.

[0039] The information indicating the second action may be generated by transforming the information related to the device that performs the action by encryption. For example, the information related to the device that performs the action may be transformed to indicate a turn right from a left turn right. Alternatively, the information indicating the second action may be generated by transforming both the information related to the device that performs the action and the information related to the motion pattern by encryption. However, it is preferable that the encryption is performed so that the combination of the device that performs the action and the motion pattern in the second action is not contradictory.

[0040] Referring again to FIG. 4, next, in the first vehicle identification method, information indicating the generated second action is transmitted from the management system 100 to the target vehicle. The transmission of the information indicating the second action may be performed by the local management device 110a or the center management device 110b. For example, in the AVP, the local management device 110a transmits information indicating the second action to the target vehicle after establishing communication with the target vehicle approaching the corresponding parking lot. Also, for example, in the AVP, the center management device 110b transmits information indicating the second action to the target vehicle in advance when the user makes a reservation for the AVP.

[0041] Next, in the first vehicle identification method, in the target vehicle, information indicating the first action is restored from information indicating the second action using a second key associated with the first key.

[0042] The second key is typically a composite key capable of decrypting a ciphertext encrypted by the first key. The first key and the second key may adopt a common key cryptosystem. That is, in this case, the first key and the second key are common keys. The first key and the second key, which are common keys, may be managed in advance in the management system 100 and the target vehicle, respectively. Furthermore, the pair of the first key and the second key, which are common keys, may be different for each vehicle 1. For example, the management system 100 may be configured to manage the first key for each vehicle 1 and select the first key according to the target vehicle. Alternatively, the common key may be a temporary key that is used only once in one process. For example, the center management device 110b of the management system 100 may generate a temporary key, which is a common key, and transmit it to each of the local management device 110a and the target vehicle.

[0043] The first key and the second key may also employ public key cryptography. In this case, the second key is a private key, and the first key is a public key generated from the private key. The second key, which is a private key, is managed in advance in the target vehicle. Then, information on the first key (public key) generated from the second key (private key) is transmitted from the target vehicle to the management system 100. The management system 100 manages the received first key (public key).

[0044] It is also possible to adopt a combination of the common key cryptosystem and the public key cryptosystem. In this case, the first key includes a first common key, which is a common key, and a first public key, which is a public key. The second key includes a second common key, which is a common key corresponding to the first common key, and a second secret key, which is a secret key corresponding to the first public key. The management system 100 generates information indicating the second action from information indicating the first action in two stages using the first common key and the first public key. The target vehicle restores information indicating the first action from information indicating the second action using the first common key and the second secret key.

[0045] The process of restoring the information indicating the first action may be executed by a control system of the target vehicle. For example, the control system of the target vehicle restores the information indicating the first action from the information indicating the second action by decrypting the received information related to the operation pattern of the second action using the second key.

[0046] Next, in the first vehicle identification method, the target vehicle is made to execute the restored first action. For example, the control system of the target vehicle controls a device of the target vehicle according to the content of the restored first action. The control system of the target vehicle may be configured to start control upon receiving command information instructing execution of an action from the local management device 110a. The local management device 110a may transmit the command information instructing execution of an action together with the transmission of information indicating the second action.

[0047] Next, in the first vehicle identification method, the management system 100 detects an action performed by the vehicle 1 using the sensor 150. The sensor 150 is configured to be able to detect at least an action assumed as a first action. As described above, the first action is managed in the management system 100. For this reason, the action assumed as the first action can be suitably designed in advance according to the environment in which the first vehicle identification method is applied.

[0048] In the first vehicle identification method, the vehicle 1 that executes the first action is identified as a target vehicle in the management system 100. The vehicle 1 that executes an action other than the first action is not identified as a target vehicle. In particular, the vehicle 1 that executes the second action, to which information is transmitted, is not identified as a target vehicle.

[0049] As described above, according to the first vehicle identification method, in the management system 100, information indicating the second action is generated from information indicating the first action using the first key. Furthermore, information indicating the second action is transmitted from the management system 100 to the target vehicle. Then, in the management system 100, the vehicle 1 performing the first action is identified as the target vehicle. In this way, according to the first vehicle identification method, the vehicle 1 performing the first action, in which no information is transmitted, is identified as the target vehicle, not the second action, in which information is transmitted. This prevents an unrelated vehicle from being identified as the target vehicle, even if information transmitted from the management system 100 to the target vehicle is intercepted. In the end, the reliability and safety can be more appropriately ensured in the vehicle identification method based on the action.

[0050] In the first vehicle identification method, the vehicle 1 performing the second action may be considered to be a vehicle 1 performing an action obtained by a malicious third party through communication interception. This is more noticeable the more complex the content of the second action is. Therefore, the management system 100 may be configured to exclude a vehicle 1 performing the second action from the targets of identification when the management system 100 detects the vehicle 1 performing the second action. Furthermore, the management system 100 may be configured to issue a warning to the system operator.

[0051] 1.2 Configuration 6 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a vehicle identification system 10 that realizes the first vehicle identification method. The vehicle identification system 10 is configured between a management system 100 and a vehicle 1 that communicates with the management system 100.

[0052] The management system 100 includes a server 110 and a sensor 150 .

[0053] The server 110 is a computer that performs information processing related to various functions in the management system 100. The server 110 is configured to be able to communicate with vehicles 1 located within the area 2 via a wireless LAN or the like. The server 110 can also be considered as a local management device 110a provided in the area 2.

[0054] The server 110 is communicatively connected to the sensor 150. For example, the server 110 is connected to the sensor 150 via a cable for electrical communication or optical communication. As described above, the sensor 150 is configured to be able to detect at least an action assumed as a first action.

[0055] The server 110 includes one or more processors 120 (hereinafter simply referred to as the “processor 120”), a storage device 130, and a communication interface 140.

[0056] The processor 120 executes various processes. The processor 120 is configured with, for example, a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), etc.

[0057] The storage device 130 is connected to the processor 120 and stores various information necessary for processing executed by the processor 120. The storage device 130 is configured with a recording medium such as, for example, a Read Only Memory (ROM), a Random Access Memory (RAM), a Hard Disk Drive (HDD), or a Solid State Drive (SSD).

[0058] The storage device 130 stores a computer program 131 and management data 132.

[0059] The computer program 131 describes the processing to be executed by the processor 120. Information processing by the server 110 may be realized by cooperation between the processor 120, which executes the processing related to the computer program 131, and the storage device 130. The computer program 131 may be recorded in a computer-readable recording medium.

[0060] The management data 132 records various management information. For example, the management data 132 records various vehicle information (vehicle ID, vehicle specifications, status of the in-vehicle device 230) and function information (contents of a request, entry time, parking position, scheduled departure time, etc.) for each vehicle 1. Particularly in the first embodiment, the management data 132 manages information indicating a first key and a first action.

[0061] The communication interface 140 is an interface for communicating with devices external to the management system 100 to transmit and receive information. For example, the communication interface 140 is configured with a device for connecting to a mobile communication network, a device for connecting to the Internet, etc. The server 110 transmits and receives information to and from the vehicle 1 via the communication interface 140.

[0062] The vehicle 1 includes a control system 200. The control system 200 controls the vehicle 1 based on various types of information.

[0063] The control system 200 includes a processing unit 210 , an on-board sensor 220 , an on-board device 230 , and a communication interface 240 .

[0064] The processing unit 210 is communicatively connected to the in-vehicle sensor 220, the in-vehicle device 230, and the communication interface 240. The processing unit 210 is a computer that performs information processing related to the control of the vehicle 1 based on various information. For example, the processing unit 210 is composed of one or more ECUs (Electronic Control Units). Alternatively, the processing unit 210 may be a kit (for example, an AVP kit) for a function provided by the management system 100. The processing unit 210 generates and outputs a control signal for controlling the vehicle 1 by information processing. The control signal output by the processing unit 210 is transmitted to the in-vehicle device 230.

[0065] The processing unit 210 includes one or more processors 211 (hereinafter simply referred to as "processor 211") and a storage device 212. The processor 211 executes various processes. The storage device 212 is connected to the processor 211, and stores various information necessary for the processes executed by the processor 211. The storage device 212 may store a computer program that describes the processes to be executed by the processor 211. Information processing by the processing unit 210 may be realized by cooperation between the processor 211, which executes the processes related to the computer program, and the storage device 212.

[0066] The on-board sensor 220 detects information on the surrounding environment and driving conditions of the vehicle 1. Examples of the on-board sensor 220 include a camera, a radar, a LiDAR, a wheel speed sensor, an IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit), a GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) sensor, etc. The information detected by the on-board sensor 220 is transmitted to the processing unit 210.

[0067] The in-vehicle device 230 includes lighting devices, interior lighting devices, horns, direction indicators, wipers, doors, door windows, drive devices (engine, electric motor, etc.), braking devices, steering devices, etc. The in-vehicle device 230 operates according to control signals obtained from the processing unit 210. Each device of the in-vehicle device 230 may include an actuator that can be controlled by the processing unit 210. The in-vehicle device 230 operates according to the control signals, thereby realizing control of the vehicle 1 by the control system 200.

[0068] The communication interface 240 is an interface for communicating with devices external to the vehicle 1 to transmit and receive information. The control system 200 of the vehicle 1 transmits and receives information to and from the management system 100 via the communication interface 240. The information received via the communication interface 240 is transmitted to the processing unit 210.

[0069] 1.3 Processing flow 7 is a diagram showing an example of a processing flow of the first vehicle identification method realized by the vehicle identification system 10. In the following description, the processing by the management system 100 is executed by the server 110 (more specifically, the processor 120). Moreover, the processing by the control system 200 is executed by the processing unit 210 (more specifically, the processor 211).

[0070] In step S100, the control system 200 of the target vehicle transmits a function request and various necessary vehicle information (vehicle ID, vehicle specifications, status of the in-vehicle device 230, etc.) to the management system 100. Here, when a public key cryptosystem is adopted in the first vehicle identification method, the target vehicle further generates a first key (public key) from a second key (private key) and transmits the generated first key to the management system 100.

[0071] When the management system 100 receives the request and the vehicle information, it refers to the management data 132 to obtain the first action. The management system 100 may select the first action from among a plurality of candidate actions stored in the management data 132. Alternatively, the management system 100 may determine the first action depending on the target vehicle. Alternatively, the management system 100 may determine the first action depending on the user of the target vehicle.

[0072] Next, in step S110, the management system 100 generates information indicating a second action from the information indicating the first action by using the first key.

[0073] Next, in step S120, the management system 100 transmits information indicating the generated second action to the target vehicle.

[0074] Next, in step S130, the control system 200 of the target vehicle restores the information indicating the first action from the information indicating the second action using the second key.

[0075] Next, in step S140, the control system 200 causes the target vehicle to execute the first action in accordance with the restored information indicating the first action.

[0076] After transmitting the information indicating the second action, the management system 100 starts a process of detecting an action performed by the vehicle 1 in the area 2 using the sensor 150 (step S150). When an action is detected in the detection process, the management system 100 verifies whether or not the action is the first action (step S151). The verification is performed, for example, by comparing the operation pattern of the detected action (detected action) with the operation pattern of the first action, based on the presence or absence of a significant difference between the two.

[0077] When it is determined by the verification that the first action has been executed, the management system 100 identifies the vehicle 1 executing the first action as a target vehicle (step S160). Then, the management system 100 transmits the identification result to the target vehicle (step S161). After step S161, the management system 100 may start providing the function according to the request.

[0078] If the verification determines that the first action has not been performed, the management system 100 may resume the detection process. In step S151, the management system 100 may further verify whether the detected action is the second action. If the verification determines that the second action has been performed, the management system 100 may exclude the vehicle 1 that performs the second action from the identification target.

[0079] 1.4 Variations As described above, in the first vehicle identification method, it is necessary to manage the first key and the information indicating the first action in the management system 100. Here, consider a case where the first vehicle identification method is applied to each of the multiple areas 2 when a function such as AVP is provided across multiple areas 2. In this case, the first key and the information indicating the first action are managed in each of the multiple local management devices 110a.

[0080] However, it is expected that the first keys and the information indicating the first actions managed by each local management device 110a will contain many common parts. For example, when managing a first key for each vehicle 1, it is expected that the first keys for the same vehicle 1 will be common. This becomes an issue from the viewpoint of management costs. In order to address this issue, the vehicle identification system 10 may adopt the following modified aspect.

[0081] 8 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a vehicle identification system 10 according to a modified example. In the vehicle identification system 10 according to the modified example, the management system 100 includes a plurality of local management devices 110a provided in a plurality of areas 2, and a center management device 110b that controls the plurality of local management devices 110a.

[0082] The configuration of each of the multiple local management devices 110a may be the same as the configuration of the server 110 shown in Fig. 4. However, the management data 132 of each local management device 110a does not manage information about the first key and information indicating the first action.

[0083] The configuration of the center management device 110b may be the same as the configuration of the server 110 shown in Fig. 4. The center management device 110b is connected to the communication network 3 via the communication interface 140 and communicates with each local management device 110a. However, the center management data 132b of the center management device 110b records first key management information 133 for managing the first key and first action management information 134 for managing information indicating the first action. That is, in the vehicle identification system 10 according to the modified example, the first key and the information indicating the first action are managed in the center management device 110b.

[0084] Fig. 9 is a diagram showing a process flow of a first vehicle identification method realized by a vehicle identification system 10 according to a modified example. In Fig. 9, a target local management device 110a is a local management device 110a provided in a target area, of a plurality of areas 2, through which a target vehicle enters and exits.

[0085] In step S200, the control system 200 of the target vehicle sends a function request and various required vehicle information to the target local management device 110a.

[0086] Next, in step S201, the target local management device 110a notifies the center management device 110b of the received various vehicle information.

[0087] When the center management device 110b receives the vehicle information, it refers to the first action management information 134 and acquires the first action.

[0088] Next, in step S210, the center management device 110b acquires the first key by referring to the first key management information 133. Then, the center management device 110b generates information indicating the second action from the information indicating the first action by using the first key.

[0089] Next, in step S220, the center management device 110b notifies the target local management device 110a of information indicating the generated second action.

[0090] Next, in step S221, the target local management device 110a transmits information indicating the notified second action to the target vehicle.

[0091] Next, in step S230, the control system 200 of the target vehicle restores the information indicating the first action from the information indicating the second action using the second key.

[0092] Next, in step S240, the control system 200 causes the target vehicle to execute the first action in accordance with the restored information indicating the first action.

[0093] After transmitting the information indicating the second action, the local management device 110a starts a process of detecting an action performed by the vehicle 1 in the target area using the sensor 150 (step S250). When an action is detected in the detection process, the local management device 110a transmits information indicating the detected action to the center management device 110b (step S251).

[0094] When the center management device 110b receives the information indicating the detected action, it verifies whether the action is the first action (step S252).

[0095] When it is determined that the first action has been executed, the center management device 110b identifies the vehicle 1 that executes the first action as a target vehicle (step S260) and notifies the target local management device 110a of the identification result (step S261). Upon receiving the notification of the identification result, the target local management device 110a transmits the identification result to the target vehicle (step S262).

[0096] As described above, the first vehicle identification method according to the modified example can achieve the same actions and effects as those of the first embodiment described above. In particular, the first vehicle identification method according to the modified example can manage the first key and information indicating the first action in the center management device 110b. This can reduce management costs.

[0097] 2. Second embodiment Hereinafter, a vehicle identification method according to the second embodiment will be described. In the following description, differences from the first embodiment will be mainly described, and content common to the first embodiment will be omitted as appropriate.

[0098] 2.1 Overview FIG. 10 is a conceptual diagram for explaining an overview of a vehicle identification method according to a second embodiment (hereinafter simply referred to as a "second vehicle identification method").

[0099] In the second vehicle identification method, the management system 100 manages the first action and the second action. First, in the second vehicle identification method, information indicating both the first action and the second action is transmitted from the management system 100 to the target vehicle.

[0100] Next, in the second vehicle identification method, the target vehicle is made to execute only the first action without executing the second action. This can be done, for example, as follows.

[0101] One method of causing the target vehicle to execute only the first action is to set the second action as an action that the target vehicle does not have the ability to execute (hereinafter, referred to as an "unexecutable action"). According to this method, since the target vehicle cannot execute the second action, information indicating the second action is not taken into consideration in the control system 200 of the target vehicle. In conclusion, it is possible to cause the target vehicle to execute only the first action. In particular, according to this method, it is sufficient that the control system 200 of the target vehicle is configured to control the target vehicle according to information received from the management system 100. In other words, there is no need to execute special processing in the control system 200. Therefore, it can be implemented without increasing the processing load or development costs in the control system 200.

[0102] The unexecutable action can be given in terms of the type, equipment, specifications, etc. of the target vehicle. For example, if the type of the target vehicle is an electric vehicle, an unexecutable action can be an action of revving the engine in a specified pattern. For example, if the equipment of the target vehicle does not include a door opening / closing control device, an unexecutable action can be an action of opening and closing the door in a specified pattern. For example, if the target vehicle is designed not to accept horn activation by an external system, an unexecutable action can be an action of sounding the horn in a specified pattern. The management system 100 can determine the second action to be the unexecutable action based on the vehicle information acquired from the target vehicle.

[0103] Another method of executing only the first action is to transmit information indicating the second action from the management system 100 to the target vehicle in advance. For example, in the AVP, the center management device 110b of the management system 100 transmits information indicating the second action to the target vehicle in advance when a user makes a reservation for the AVP. According to this method, the control system 200 of the target vehicle can grasp which of the actions received from the management system 100 is the second action. Therefore, the control system 200 of the target vehicle can control the target vehicle without considering the information indicating the second action. By extension, it is possible to cause the target vehicle to execute only the first action. In particular, according to this method, the management system 100 can determine the first action and the second action without distinguishing between them. Therefore, it can be implemented without increasing the management cost and processing load in the management system 100.

[0104] Next, in the second vehicle identification method, the management system 100 detects an action performed by the vehicle 1 using the sensor 150.

[0105] In the second vehicle identification method, a vehicle 1 that performs the first action without performing the second action is identified as a target vehicle in the management system 100. A vehicle 1 that performs an action other than the first action is not identified as a target vehicle. In particular, a vehicle 1 that performs both the first action and the second action is not identified as a target vehicle.

[0106] As described above, according to the second vehicle identification method, information indicating both the first action and the second action is transmitted from the management system 100 to the target vehicle. Furthermore, the target vehicle is caused to perform only the first action without performing the second action. Then, in the management system 100, the vehicle 1 performing the first action without performing the second action is identified as the target vehicle. Thus, according to the second vehicle identification method, the vehicle 1 performing both the first action and the second action for which information is transmitted is not identified as the target vehicle. This prevents an unrelated vehicle from being identified as the target vehicle even if information transmitted from the management system 100 to the target vehicle is intercepted. In the end, reliability and safety can be more appropriately ensured in the vehicle identification method based on the action.

[0107] In the second vehicle identification method, a vehicle 1 that executes both the first action and the second action may be considered to be a vehicle 1 that is executing an action acquired by a malicious third party through communication interception. Therefore, the management system 100 may be configured to exclude a vehicle 1 that executes both the first action and the second action from targets for identification when the management system 100 detects the vehicle 1 that executes both the first action and the second action. Furthermore, the management system 100 may be configured to issue a warning to a system operator.

[0108] Also, in the above, the second vehicle identification method has been described with two actions, the first action to be performed by the target vehicle and the second action not to be performed by the target vehicle. As can be understood from the above description, the second vehicle identification method can be easily expanded to three or more actions. For example, four actions, the first action, the second action, the third action, and the fourth action, are transmitted from the management system 100 to the target vehicle. Here, the third action and the fourth action are not performed by the target vehicle. The management system 100 identifies the vehicle 1 that performs the first action and the second action as the target vehicle without performing the third action and the fourth action. By increasing the number of actions to be transmitted, it is expected that reliability and safety can be ensured to a higher degree.

[0109] 2.2 Processing flow The second vehicle identification method can be realized by a configuration similar to that of the vehicle identification system 10 according to the first embodiment shown in Fig. 6. Fig. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a processing flow of the second vehicle identification method realized by the vehicle identification system 10.

[0110] In step S300, the control system 200 of the target vehicle transmits a function request and various required vehicle information to the management system 100.

[0111] When the management system 100 receives the request and the vehicle information, the management system 100 refers to the management data 132 to obtain the first action and the second action. Here, the second action may be an unexecutable action. Alternatively, the second action may be an action that has been transmitted to the target vehicle in advance.

[0112] Next, in step S310, the management system 100 transmits information indicating both the first action and the second action to the target vehicle.

[0113] Next, in step S320, the control system 200 of the target vehicle causes the target vehicle to execute only the first action of the first and second actions.

[0114] After transmitting information indicating both the first action and the second action, the management system 100 starts a process of detecting an action performed by the vehicle 1 in the area 2 using the sensor 150 (step S330). When an action is detected in the detection process, the management system 100 verifies the action (step S331).

[0115] When it is determined by the verification that only the first action has been performed without performing the second action, the management system 100 identifies the vehicle 1 performing the first action as a target vehicle (step S340).Then, the management system 100 transmits the identification result to the target vehicle (step S341).

[0116] If the verification determines that an action other than the first action has been executed, the management system 100 may resume the detection process. In particular, in step S331, the management system 100 may further verify whether the detection action includes both the first action and the second action. Then, if the verification determines that both the first action and the second action have been executed, the management system 100 may exclude the vehicle 1 that executes both the first action and the second action from the target of identification.

[0117] 3. Third embodiment Hereinafter, a vehicle identification method according to the third embodiment will be described. In the following description, differences from the first embodiment will be mainly described, and contents common to the first embodiment will be omitted as appropriate.

[0118] 3.1 Overview FIG. 12 is a conceptual diagram for explaining an overview of a vehicle identification method according to a third embodiment (hereinafter simply referred to as a "third vehicle identification method").

[0119] In the third vehicle identification method, the management system 100 manages a plurality of elements that constitute a target action. In Fig. 12, a first element and a second element are shown as the plurality of elements. Here, the following aspects can be adopted for the method of providing the plurality of elements.

[0120] One way of providing the multiple elements is to treat each of a device that performs the target action and a motion pattern of the device as one element. Thus, in this case, the multiple elements include a device that performs the target action and a motion pattern of the device. For example, in FIG. 10, the first element and the second element respectively indicate a headlight and a pattern of switching the light on and off. The multiple elements may further include separate elements for configuring the target action. For example, the multiple elements may further include an element indicating the number of times the motion pattern is repeated.

[0121] Another way of providing multiple elements is to consider the target action as a combination of multiple actions that are different from each other, and each action in the combination is treated as one element. In this case, the multiple elements include at least a first action and a second action that is different from the first action. For example, in FIG. 10, the first element indicates that the left turn light of the turn indicator should be flashed in a specified pattern. The second element indicates that the right turn light should be flashed in a specified pattern.

[0122] First, in the third vehicle identification method, information on a plurality of elements is separately transmitted from the management system 100 to the target vehicle via a plurality of different communication paths 4. In FIG. 12, a first communication path 4a and a second communication path 4b are shown as the plurality of different communication paths 4. For example, the first communication path 4a is a path through which the local management device 110a and the target vehicle communicate with each other via a wireless LAN or the like. Also, for example, the second communication path 4b is a path through which the center management device 110b and the target vehicle communicate with each other via the communication network 3. In FIG. 12, the first element is transmitted from the management system 100 to the target vehicle via the first communication path 4a. Also, the second element is transmitted from the management system 100 to the target vehicle via the second communication path 4b.

[0123] Next, in the third vehicle identification method, the target vehicle is made to execute a target action including all of the multiple elements.

[0124] Next, in the third vehicle identification method, the management system 100 detects an action performed by the vehicle 1 using the sensor 150.

[0125] In the third vehicle identification method, a vehicle 1 that executes a target action that includes all of the multiple elements is identified as a target vehicle in the management system 100. A vehicle 1 that executes an action that does not include at least one of the multiple elements is not identified as a target vehicle.

[0126] As described above, according to the third vehicle identification method, information on a plurality of elements constituting a target action is transmitted separately from the management system 100 to the target vehicle via each of a plurality of different communication paths 4. Furthermore, the target vehicle is caused to execute a target action including all of the plurality of elements. Then, in the management system 100, the vehicle 1 executing the target action including all of the plurality of elements is identified as the target vehicle. Thus, according to the third vehicle identification method, a vehicle is not identified as a target vehicle simply by executing an action including an element whose information is transmitted via one communication path 4. This prevents an unrelated vehicle from being identified as a target vehicle even if information transmitted from the management system 100 to the target vehicle is intercepted. In the end, reliability and safety can be more appropriately ensured in the vehicle identification method based on the action.

[0127] In the third vehicle identification method, a vehicle 1 that executes an action that does not include at least one of the multiple elements may be considered to be a vehicle 1 that is executing an action obtained by a malicious third party through communication interception. Therefore, the management system 100 may be configured to exclude a vehicle 1 that executes an action that does not include at least one of the multiple elements from being identified when the management system 100 detects the vehicle 1 that executes the action that does not include at least one of the multiple elements. Furthermore, the management system 100 may be configured to issue a warning to a system operator.

[0128] 3.2 Processing flow The third vehicle identification method can be realized by a configuration similar to that of the vehicle identification system 10 according to the first embodiment shown in Fig. 6. Fig. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a processing flow of the third vehicle identification method realized by the vehicle identification system 10.

[0129] In step S400, the control system 200 of the target vehicle transmits a function request and various required vehicle information to the management system 100.

[0130] When the management system 100 receives the request and the vehicle information, it refers to the management data 132 to obtain a plurality of elements that constitute the target action.

[0131] Next, in step S410, the management system 100 transmits the information of the multiple elements to the target vehicle via each of the multiple different communication paths 4 separately.

[0132] Next, in step S420, the control system 200 of the target vehicle causes the target vehicle to execute a target action that includes all of the multiple elements.

[0133] After transmitting the information indicating the multiple elements, the management system 100 starts a process of detecting an action performed by the vehicle 1 in the area 2 using the sensor 150 (step S430). When an action is detected in the detection process, the management system 100 verifies the action (step S431).

[0134] When it is determined by the verification that a target action including all of the multiple elements has been executed, the management system 100 identifies the vehicle 1 that executes the target action as a target vehicle (step S440). Then, the management system 100 transmits the identification result to the target vehicle (step S441).

[0135] If the verification determines that the target action including all of the multiple elements has not been performed, the management system 100 may resume the detection process. In particular, in step S431, the management system 100 may further verify whether the detection action is an action that does not include at least one of the multiple elements. Then, if the verification determines that an action that does not include any of the elements has been performed, the management system 100 may exclude the vehicle 1 that performs the action from the target of identification.

[0136] 4. Fourth embodiment A vehicle identification method according to the fourth embodiment will be described below. In the following description, differences from the first embodiment will be mainly described, and content common to the first embodiment will be omitted as appropriate.

[0137] 4.1 Overview FIG. 14 is a conceptual diagram for explaining an overview of a vehicle identification method according to a fourth embodiment (hereinafter simply referred to as a "fourth vehicle identification method").

[0138] In the fourth vehicle identification method, the management system 100 manages target actions including multiple actions that are consecutive in time. In Fig. 10, the target actions include N actions #1 to #N that are consecutive in time. In this case, execution of the target actions means performing the actions #1 to #N in this order consecutively in time. Multiple actions that are consecutive in time are given by, for example, setting the duration of each action or an interval until the next action.

[0139] Next, in the fourth vehicle identification method, information on the target action is transmitted from the management system 100 to the target vehicle.

[0140] Next, in the fourth vehicle identification method, the target vehicle is made to perform a target action.

[0141] Next, in the fourth vehicle identification method, the management system 100 detects an action performed by the vehicle 1 using the sensor 150.

[0142] In the fourth vehicle identification method, the management system 100 compares the detection action with a plurality of actions, and if a predetermined number or more of the plurality of actions are detected, the management system 100 identifies the vehicle 1 that executes the detection action as a target vehicle. For example, it is assumed that the target actions include seven chronologically consecutive actions, actions #1 to #7, and the predetermined number is set to 5. In this case, the management system 100 compares the detection actions in the order of actions #1 to #7. Then, if five or more of the actions #1 to #7 match, the management system 100 identifies the vehicle 1 that executes the detection action as a target vehicle. Note that, since the actions #1 to #7 are chronologically consecutive actions, the comparison is performed taking into consideration the detection time of the detection action. For example, the management system 100 records a timestamp of the detection action, and performs the comparison based on the timestamp.

[0143] Fig. 15 is a conceptual diagram showing an embodiment. Fig. 15 shows a target action including seven actions that are consecutive in time. The detection action includes some inaccurate information due to a processing delay or recognition error of the sensor 150. On the other hand, the detection action includes five actions out of the seven actions of the target action. Therefore, in this embodiment, if the set predetermined number is five or more, the management system 100 identifies the vehicle 1 that executes the detection action as a target vehicle.

[0144] As described above, according to the fourth vehicle identification method, information indicating a target action including a plurality of actions successive in time is transmitted from the management system 100 to the target vehicle. The target vehicle is caused to perform the target action. Then, in the management system 100, when a predetermined number or more of the plurality of actions are detected, the vehicle 1 performing the detection action is identified as the target vehicle. Thus, according to the fourth vehicle identification method, even if all of the detection actions do not match the target action, if a predetermined number or more match, the vehicle 1 performing the detection action is identified as the target vehicle. This makes it possible to take into account cases where temporary processing slowdown or recognition error occurs in the sensor 150, and improves the probability of successful identification. In addition, it is possible to more appropriately ensure reliability in the vehicle identification method based on the action.

[0145] The fourth vehicle identification method can be realized by a configuration similar to that of the vehicle identification system 10 according to the first embodiment shown in Fig. 6. Fig. 16 is a diagram showing an example of a processing flow of the fourth vehicle identification method realized by the vehicle identification system 10.

[0146] In step S500, the control system 200 of the target vehicle transmits a function request and various required vehicle information to the management system 100.

[0147] When the management system 100 receives the request and the vehicle information, it refers to the management data 132 to obtain target actions that include multiple actions that are consecutive in time.

[0148] Next, in step S510, the management system 100 transmits information indicating the target action to the target vehicle.

[0149] Next, in step S520, the control system 200 of the target vehicle causes the target vehicle to execute the target action.

[0150] After transmitting the information indicating the target action, the management system 100 starts a process of detecting an action performed by the vehicle 1 in the area 2 using the sensor 150 (step S530). When an action is detected in the detection process, the management system 100 compares and verifies the detected action with multiple actions included in the target action (step S531).

[0151] When it is determined that a predetermined number or more of the actions have been detected by the verification, the management system 100 identifies the vehicle 1 that executes the detection action as a target vehicle (step S541). Then, the management system 100 transmits the identification result to the target vehicle (step S542). [Explanation of symbols]

[0152] 1. Vehicle, 2. Area, 3. Communication network, 4. Communication path, 10 vehicle identification system, 100 management system, 110 server, 110a local management device, 110b center management device, 120 processor, 130 storage device, 131 computer program, 132 Management Data, 150 Sensors, 200 Control Systems

Claims

1. A vehicle identification method for identifying a target vehicle, comprising: generating information indicating a second action from information indicating a first action using a first key in the management system; transmitting the information indicating the second action from the management system to the target vehicle; restoring, in the target vehicle, the information indicating the first action from the information indicating the second action using a second key associated with the first key; causing the target vehicle to execute the first action; Detecting an action performed by a vehicle using a sensor in the management system; In the management system, the vehicle that executes the first action is identified as the target vehicle, and the vehicle that executes the second action is not identified as the target vehicle. Includes Vehicle identification methods.

2. 2. The vehicle identification method according to claim 1, The first key and the second key are a common key. Vehicle identification methods.

3. 2. The vehicle identification method according to claim 1, generating, in the target vehicle, the first key, a public key, from the second key, a private key; transmitting information of the public key, which is the first key, from the target vehicle to the management system; Further includes Vehicle identification methods.

4. 2. The vehicle identification method according to claim 1, The management system includes: A plurality of local management devices provided in a plurality of areas through which vehicles enter and exit; a central management device that controls the plurality of local management devices; Including, the plurality of local management devices include a target local management device provided in a target area through which the target vehicle enters and exits; The vehicle identification method includes: managing the information indicating the first key and the first action in the center management device; generating, in the center management device, the information indicating the second action from the information indicating the first action using the first key; transmitting the information indicating the second action from the center management device to the target local management device; transmitting the information indicative of the second action from the target local management device to the target vehicle; detecting, in the object local management device, an action performed by a vehicle using the sensor; transmitting information of the action performed by the vehicle from the target local management device to the central management device; In the center management device, the vehicle that executes the first action is identified as the target vehicle, and the vehicle that executes the second action is not identified as the target vehicle. Further includes Vehicle identification methods.

5. A vehicle identification method for identifying a target vehicle, comprising: transmitting information indicating both the first action and the second action from the management system to the target vehicle; causing the target vehicle to execute only the first action without causing the target vehicle to execute the second action; Detecting an action performed by a vehicle using a sensor in the management system; In the management system, the vehicle that executes the first action without executing the second action is identified as the target vehicle, and the vehicle that executes both the first action and the second action is not identified as the target vehicle. Includes Vehicle identification methods.

6. 6. A vehicle identification method according to claim 5, The second action is an action that the target vehicle does not have the capability to perform. Vehicle identification methods.

7. 6. A vehicle identification method according to claim 5, The method further includes transmitting information indicating the second action from the management system to the target vehicle in advance. Vehicle identification methods.

8. A vehicle identification method for identifying a target vehicle, comprising: transmitting information on a plurality of elements constituting a target action from a management system to the target vehicle via each of a plurality of different communication paths; causing the target vehicle to execute the target action including all of the plurality of elements; Detecting an action performed by a vehicle using a sensor in the management system; In the management system, the vehicle that executes the target action including all of the plurality of elements is identified as the target vehicle, and the vehicle that executes the action that does not include at least one of the plurality of elements is not identified as the target vehicle. Includes Vehicle identification methods.

9. 9. A vehicle identification method according to claim 8, comprising: The plurality of elements are A device for executing the target action; The operation pattern of the device; Includes Vehicle identification methods.

10. 9. A vehicle identification method according to claim 8, comprising: The plurality of elements are The first action, a second action different from the first action; Includes Vehicle identification methods.

11. A vehicle identification method for identifying a target vehicle, comprising: transmitting information of a target action including a plurality of actions that are consecutive in time from the management system to the target vehicle; causing the target vehicle to execute the target action; Detecting an action performed by a vehicle using a sensor in the management system; In the management system, comparing the detected action with the plurality of actions, and identifying the vehicle as the target vehicle when a predetermined number or more of the plurality of actions are detected; Includes Vehicle identification methods.

12. A vehicle identification system for identifying a target vehicle, comprising: A management system capable of communicating with the target vehicle, the management system generates information indicating a second action from information indicating a first action using a first key; The management system transmits the information indicating the second action to the target vehicle; the target vehicle restores the information indicating the first action from the information indicating the second action using a second key associated with the first key, and executes the first action; The management system detects actions performed by a vehicle using a sensor; The management system identifies the vehicle that performs the first action as the target vehicle, and does not identify the vehicle that performs the second action as the target vehicle. Vehicle Identification System.

13. A vehicle identification system for identifying a target vehicle, comprising: A management system capable of communicating with the target vehicle, the management system transmits information indicating both the first action and the second action to the target vehicle; the target vehicle executes only the first action without executing the second action; The management system detects actions performed by a vehicle using a sensor; The management system identifies the vehicle that performs the first action without performing the second action as the target vehicle, and does not identify the vehicle that performs both the first action and the second action as the target vehicle. Vehicle Identification System.

14. A vehicle identification system for identifying a target vehicle, comprising: A management system capable of communicating with the target vehicle, The management system transmits information on a plurality of elements constituting a target action to the target vehicle separately via each of a plurality of different communication paths; The target vehicle executes the target action that includes all of the plurality of elements; The management system detects actions performed by a vehicle using a sensor; The management system identifies the vehicle that executes the target action that includes all of the plurality of elements as the target vehicle, and does not identify the vehicle that executes the action that does not include at least one of the plurality of elements as the target vehicle. Vehicle Identification System.

15. A vehicle identification system for identifying a target vehicle, comprising: A management system capable of communicating with the target vehicle, The management system transmits information on a target action including a plurality of actions that are successive in time; The target vehicle executes the target action; The management system detects actions performed by a vehicle using a sensor; The management system compares the detected action with the plurality of actions, and identifies the vehicle as the target vehicle when a predetermined number or more of the plurality of actions are detected. Vehicle Identification System.

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