Information processing device, information processing system, information processing method and program

Abstract

To provide an information processing system for properly allocating parking spaces to vehicles coming to a parking lot with a plurality of parking spaces.SOLUTION: A control unit 120 detects entry of a vehicle PL1 into a parking lot C1, and grants a use right to use the parking space to a user C1 in the vehicle U1 whose entry has been detected. The control unit 120 determines whether there is an available parking space in the parking lot SP1, on the basis of management content of a parking lot management DB 200 for managing availability of a plurality of parking spaces SP1 to SP21. When there is an available parking space, the controller 120 causes an electronic device MC1 to output first guidance information for guiding the user to the parking space. Meanwhile, when there is no available parking space, the control unit 120 causes the electronic device MC1 to output second guidance information for guiding the user to wait because no available parking space exists.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an information processing apparatus, an information processing system, an information processing method, and a program capable of allocating a parking space.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, there are parking lots provided with a plurality of parking spaces for vehicles to park. For example, when parking a vehicle in a parking lot, a user boarding the vehicle can visually find an empty parking space and park the vehicle in the empty parking space. However, in a time zone when there are many people who want to park in a large parking lot, it becomes difficult to appropriately allocate a parking space to each vehicle. Therefore, there is a technology in which the license plate number of a vehicle photographed by a camera installed at the entrance of a parking lot is recognized, and the vehicle whose license plate number is recognized is allocated to any of the empty parking rows, and is guided to an empty parking row by controlling the lighting of a parking location display board and a guiding indicator light (for example, Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In the above-described conventional technology, it is necessary to install a camera, a parking location display board, a guiding indicator light, etc. in a parking lot. For this reason, the installation cost and management cost related to the management of the parking lot increase. Here, in recent years, there are many users who own portable electronic devices such as smartphones. Therefore, it would be convenient if these electronic devices could be used to appropriately allocate a parking space to a plurality of users.

[0005] The present invention aims to appropriately allocate parking spaces to vehicles that have come to a parking lot provided with a plurality of parking spaces.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] One aspect of the present invention is an information processing system capable of allocating a plurality of parking spaces to a vehicle, using a communication device provided in a parking lot where a plurality of parking spaces are secured, an electronic device mounted on the vehicle, and an information processing device that manages the use status of the plurality of parking spaces. The information processing device uses wireless communication between the communication device and the electronic device to detect that the vehicle has come to the parking lot and entered the parking lot, and grants the vehicle the right to use the parking space at the timing when it is detected that the vehicle has entered the parking lot. Based on the management contents of a management unit that manages the use status of the plurality of parking spaces, the number of vehicles that can be parked in the parking lot, and the number of other vehicles that have entered the parking lot (the number of entered vehicles), it determines whether there are available parking spaces in the parking lot. If it is determined that there are available parking spaces, it causes the electronic device to output first guidance information for guiding the user of the vehicle to whom the right to use has been granted to the parking space. On the other hand, if it is determined that there are no available parking spaces, it guides the user of the vehicle to whom the right to use has been granted to wait until an available parking space is detected because there are no available parking spaces in the parking lot, and causes the electronic device to output second guidance information including the waiting time after the vehicle entered the parking lot, which is specified based on the number of vehicles that can be parked and the number of entered vehicles in the management unit. Identification information for transmitting use start information using the electronic device is installed near the parking space or in its vicinity when starting to use the parking space. When use start information based on the identification information is transmitted from the electronic device that has transmitted the first guidance information, the information processing device changes the management contents of the management unit regarding the parking space related to the identification information during use.

Effects of the Invention

[0007] According to the present invention, it is possible to appropriately allocate a parking space to a vehicle that has come to a parking lot provided with a plurality of parking spaces.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0008]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Figure 11

Figure 12

Figure 13

Figure 14

Figure 15

Figure 16

Figure 17

Figure 18

Figure 19

Figure 20

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0009] Next, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0010] [Usage Example of Information Processing System] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a usage example of the information processing system 1 (see FIG. 3). FIG. 1 shows an example of use in a parking lot PL1 where parking spaces PS1 to PS21 are provided. The parking spaces PS1 to PS21 are planar spaces where one vehicle can be parked. Also, it is assumed that vehicles can enter and exit the parking lot PL1 through the entrances and exits EE1 and EE2. In addition, in the parking lot PL1, devices TM1 and TM2 are installed that can exchange various information with electronic devices MC1 and MC2 using wireless communication. The information processing system 1 is a parking lot management system for managing parking spaces. In this embodiment, an example of managing the right to use a parking space (usage right) in units of parking spaces is shown. Also, only electronic devices installed with an application (parking lot management application) for using the parking lot management service provided by the information processing system 1 may be used as the target, or the parking lot management system may be made available regardless of the presence or absence of the parking lot management application.

[0011] Here, a parking lot means a place where one or more parking spaces are provided and a vehicle can be parked in an available parking space. Also, in FIG. 1, a parking lot provided on a plane is shown as an example, but it can be applied to various parking lots such as a parking lot provided within a certain facility or a parking lot provided three-dimensionally within a certain facility (multi-story parking lot). Further, in the present embodiment, an example that can be implemented regardless of whether it is paid or free is shown, but it can also be applied to either a paid or free parking lot.

[0012] For example, when the vehicle C1 in which the user U1 rides comes to the parking lot PL1, it is possible to park using an available parking space among the parking spaces PS1 to PS21. However, during a time period when the usage frequency of the parking lot PL1 is high, since there are a large number of people who desire to park, it is also assumed that there may be no available parking space. Also, even when an empty parking space appears, it is also assumed that it may be difficult for the person who came to the parking lot PL1 earlier to secure that empty parking space. That is, there is a possibility that it may be difficult to appropriately allocate a parking space to the user who came to the parking lot PL1. Therefore, in the present embodiment, based on the order in which the users come to the parking lot PL1, the parking space is appropriately allocated.

[0013] For example, when the vehicle C1 in which the user U1 rides comes to the parking lot PL1, the user U1 uses the electronic device MC1 owned by the user U1 to perform predetermined communication with the device TM1. Thereby, the user U1 can obtain the right (usage right) to use the parking space in the parking lot PL1. Note that when there are other passengers in the vehicle C1, the electronic device owned by that passenger may be used.

[0014] Similarly, for example, when the vehicle C2 in which the user U2 rides arrives at the parking lot PL1, a predetermined communication is performed between the electronic device MC2 owned by the user U2 (or other passengers) and the device TM2. As a result, the user U2 can obtain the right (use right) to use the parking space in the parking lot PL1. Then, the parking spaces are appropriately allocated to each user according to the order in which the right (use right) to use the parking space in the parking lot PL1 is granted.

[0015] In this embodiment, when it is said that the user U1 riding in the vehicle C1 enters the parking lot PL1, it also means that the vehicle C1 enters the parking lot PL1. Also, vice versa. Further, the use of the parking space means parking a vehicle in that parking space. Also, the end of the use of the parking space means taking out the vehicle parked in that parking space.

[0016] [Example of the external configuration of the parking space] FIG. 2 is a perspective view schematically showing an example of the external configuration of the parking space PS1. The left-right direction in FIG. 2 shall correspond to the front-rear direction of the vehicle parked in the parking space PS1. Since the external configurations of the other parking spaces PS2 to PS21 are the same, the illustration and description here are omitted.

[0017] Inside or near the parking space PS1, a use start image GS1 for detecting the start of parking is provided. In this embodiment, when referring to the vicinity of a planar space, it shall include the meaning of the range (periphery) surrounding that planar space with that planar space as a reference, the space near that planar space (relatively close space) (peripheral) with that planar space as a reference, and the like.

[0018] FIG. 2 shows an example in which a start - of - use image GS1 is provided outside (near the parking space PS1) of the parking space PS1. The start - of - use image GS1 is composed of an image from which an electronic device can acquire at least parking space identification information for identifying the parking space PS1. As the start - of - use image GS1, for example, a one - dimensional code (e.g., barcode), a two - dimensional code (e.g., QR code (registered trademark)), a three - dimensional code, various images, various character information, etc. can be used. For example, a sticker printed with an image (e.g., one - dimensional code, two - dimensional code) from which an electronic device can acquire parking space identification information related to the parking space PS1 can be pasted inside or near the parking space PS1 as the start - of - use image GS1. Also, the start - of - use image GS1 may be directly described on the upper surface inside or near the parking space PS1. Further, in or near the parking space PS1, some member (e.g., a plate - like member) on which the start - of - use image GS1 is described may be provided.

[0019] Also, inside or near the parking space PS1, a parking space name display TN1 is provided so that the user can easily visually identify the parking space PS1. For example, let the parking space PS1 be called the No. 1 parking space, and the parking spaces PS2 to PS21 be called the No. 2 to No. 21 parking spaces, respectively. In this case, as the parking space name display TN1, the character "No. 1" is attached to the upper surface of the parking space PS1. For example, a sticker printed with the character "No. 1" may be pasted on the upper surface of the parking space PS1, or the character "No. 1" may be directly described on the upper surface of the parking space PS1, or formed by unevenness on the upper surface of the parking space PS1. FIG. 2 shows an example in which the parking space name display TN1 is provided inside the parking space PS1 and before and after the outside of the parking space PS1. Thereby, even when a vehicle is parked in the parking space PS1, the user can see the parking space name display TN1 provided before and after the outside of the parking space PS1. Note that the character "No. 1" is an example, and various numerical values such as "No.1", "First", and various characters can be used. Also, the start - of - use image GS1 and the parking space name display TN1 may be shared as the same information.

[0020] [Configuration Example of Information Processing System] FIG. 3 is a diagram schematically showing an example of the system configuration of the information processing system 1.

[0021] The information processing system 1 is composed of a plurality of devices that can be connected via the network NW1. FIG. 3 shows an example in which the information processing system 1 is composed of a server 100, electronic devices MC1 and MC2, and devices TM1 and TM2. Each of the server 100, the electronic devices MC1 and MC2, and the devices TM1 and TM2 is connected to the network NW1 by a communication method using wired communication or wireless communication. The network NW1 is a network such as a public switched telephone network or the Internet. Note that the electronic devices MC1 and MC2 and the devices TM1 and TM2 may be directly connected by using wired communication or wireless communication without going through the network NW1.

[0022] [Configuration Example of Server] The server 100 is a server that executes a parking lot management process for managing the parking spaces installed in the parking lot PL1.

[0023] The server 100 includes a communication unit 110, a control unit 120, and a storage unit 130.

[0024] The communication unit 110 exchanges various information with other devices by using wired communication or wireless communication based on the control of the control unit 120.

[0025] The control unit 120 controls each unit based on various programs stored in the storage unit 130. The control unit 120 is realized by a processing device such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), for example. Note that the CPU is an example of a central processing unit (electronic device) including a control device (control circuit) and an arithmetic device (arithmetic circuit). The parking lot management process executed by the control unit 120 will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 6 to 20 and the like.

[0026] The storage unit 130 is a storage medium that stores various types of information. For example, the storage unit 130 stores various types of information (such as a control program, a parking lot management DB (database) 200 (see FIG. 4), an electronic device management DB 210 (see FIG. 5), and map information) that are necessary for the control unit 120 to perform various processes. Also, the storage unit 130 stores various types of information acquired via the communication unit 110. As the storage unit 130, for example, a ROM (Read Only Memory), a RAM (Random Access Memory), an SRAM (Static Random Access Memory), an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), an SSD (Solid State Drive), or a combination thereof can be used.

[0027] [Configuration Example of Electronic Device] The electronic device MC1 includes a communication unit 171, a control unit 172, a storage unit 173, an image acquisition unit 174, a position information acquisition unit 175, and a UI (User Interface) unit 180. Note that since the configuration of the electronic device MC2 is the same as that of the electronic device MC1, the description of the electronic device MC2 is omitted.

[0028] The communication unit 171 exchanges various types of information with other devices using wired communication or wireless communication based on the control of the control unit 172.

[0029] The control unit 172 controls each unit based on various programs stored in the storage unit 173. The control unit 172 is realized by a processing device such as a CPU, for example. Details of each process executed by the control unit 172 will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 6 to 20 and the like.

[0030] The storage unit 173 is a storage medium that stores various types of information. For example, the storage unit 173 stores various types of information (such as control programs, parking lot management applications, device identification information) necessary for the control unit 172 to perform various processes. Also, the storage unit 173 stores various types of information acquired via the communication unit 171. As the storage unit 173, for example, a ROM, RAM, SRAM, HDD, SSD, or a combination thereof can be used. Note that the storage unit 173 may be a removable storage unit, or may be a storage unit built into the electronic device MC1. Also, the electronic device MC1 may be provided with both a removable storage unit and a built-in storage unit.

[0031] The image acquisition unit 174 generates an image (image data) by imaging a subject based on the control of the control unit 172, and outputs the generated image to the control unit 172. The image acquisition unit 174 is composed of, for example, an image sensor (image sensor, image sensor) that receives light from the subject condensed by a lens (not shown), and an image processing unit that performs predetermined image processing on the image data generated by the image sensor. As the image sensor, for example, a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) type or CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) type image sensor can be used.

[0032] The location information acquisition unit 175 acquires location information regarding the location where the electronic device MC1 exists, and outputs the acquired location information to the control unit 172. The location information acquisition unit 175 can be realized, for example, by a GPS receiver that receives a GPS (Global Positioning System) signal (or a GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) signal) and calculates location information based on the GPS signal. Further, the calculated location information includes various data regarding the location such as latitude, longitude, and altitude at the time of receiving the GPS signal. Also, a location information acquisition device that acquires location information by other location information acquisition methods may be used. For example, a location information acquisition device that derives location information using access point information by a surrounding wireless LAN and acquires this location information may be used. Also, for example, a location information acquisition device that derives location information using the location information of a base station used for calls or communication and acquires this location information may be used. Also, for example, a location information acquisition device that derives location information using a location estimation technique by a navigation function and acquires this location information may be used. For example, the position of the own device can be estimated based on sensor information from various sensors (for example, an acceleration sensor, a gyro sensor) and map information.

[0033] The UI unit 180 includes a reception unit 181 and an output unit 182.

[0034] The reception unit 181 receives various operations from the user U1 and outputs the received operation content to the control unit 172. Note that the reception unit 181 and the output unit 182 may be configured as a touch panel that enables the user to perform operation inputs by touching or bringing their finger close to the display surface, or may be configured as a separate user interface. When configured as a separate user interface, various operation members such as switches, buttons, and keyboards can be used as the reception unit 181. Also, it may be a user interface that projects an image corresponding to the operation unit onto a wall or the like and uses that image (for example, the user points) to perform operations. Further, a voice input unit or the like that receives various operations based on the voice uttered by the user may be used as the reception unit 181. The voice input unit acquires the sounds around the electronic device MC1 and outputs sound information regarding the acquired sounds to the control unit 172. As the voice input unit, for example, one or more microphones or sound acquisition sensors can be used.

[0035] The output unit 182 outputs various information based on the control of the control unit 172. For example, the output unit 182 can be configured by a display unit and a sound output unit. This display unit displays various images based on instructions from the control unit 172. As the display unit, for example, display panels such as an organic EL (Electro Luminescence) panel or an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) panel can be used. The sound output unit outputs various voices based on instructions from the control unit 172. As the sound output unit, for example, one or more speakers can be used. Note that the display unit, the sound output unit, the voice input unit, and the reception unit 181 are an example of a user interface, and some of these may be omitted, or other user interfaces may be used.

[0036] [Configuration Example of Device] Device TM1 includes a communication unit 140, a control unit 150, and a storage unit 160. Note that since the configuration of device TM2 is the same as that of device TM1, the description of device TM2 is omitted.

[0037] Based on the control of the control unit 150, the communication unit 140 exchanges various information with other devices using wired communication or wireless communication.

[0038] The control unit 150 controls each unit based on various programs stored in the storage unit 160. The control unit 150 is realized by a processing device such as a CPU, for example. Details of each process executed by the control unit 150 will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 6 to 20 and the like.

[0039] The storage unit 160 is a storage medium that stores various information. For example, the storage unit 160 stores various information (for example, a control program, installation location identification information for identifying the parking lot PL1) required for the control unit 150 to perform various processes. In addition, the storage unit 160 stores various information acquired via the communication unit 140. As the storage unit 160, for example, a ROM, a RAM, an SRAM, an HDD, an SSD, or a combination thereof can be used. Note that the storage unit 160 may be a removable storage unit, or may be a storage unit built into the device TM1. Further, the device TM1 may be provided with both a removable storage unit and a built-in storage unit.

[0040] [Communication Examples Used Among Devices] As shown in FIG. 3, each of the server 100, the electronic devices MC1 and MC2, and the devices TM1 and TM2 exchanges each information using a predetermined communication. Therefore, communication examples used among the devices will be described here.

[0041] The server 100 is connected to the network NW1 by a communication method using wired communication or wireless communication.

[0042] In addition, each of the electronic devices MC1, MC2, and devices TM1, TM2 is connected to the network NW1 by a communication method using wired communication or wireless communication. For example, each of the electronic devices MC1, MC2, and devices TM1, TM2 can perform at least one of various wireless communication standards such as wireless LAN (Local Area Network) (e.g., Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity)), Bluetooth (registered trademark) (IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers) 802.15.1), ZigBee (registered trademark) (IEEE802.15.4), WiMax, and infrared communication as wireless communication. Also, each of the electronic devices MC1, MC2, and devices TM1, TM2 may use, for example, a public network (e.g., a mobile communication system such as 3G (3rd Generation), 4G (4th Generation), 5G (5th Generation), 6G (6th Generation), LTE (Long Term Evolution)) as wireless communication. Note that these are examples of wireless communication, and the embodiments may be applied to wireless communication of other wireless communication standards.

[0043] In addition, for the communication between the electronic device MC1 (or MC2) and the device TM1 (or TM2), it is possible to use the wireless communication of each of the above-described wireless communication standards. Here, in the present embodiment, when communication is performed between the electronic device MC1 and the device TM1, it is detected that the user U1 (vehicle C1) who owns the electronic device MC1 has come to the parking lot PL1. Therefore, for the communication between the electronic device MC1 (or MC2) and the device TM1 (or TM2), in order to appropriately determine that the two devices are present at a relatively close position, it is preferable to use short-range wireless communication (e.g., wireless LAN, Bluetooth (registered trademark), contactless communication).

[0044] [Detection Example of Detecting a Vehicle That Has Come to the Parking Lot] Next, a detection method for the server 100 to detect a vehicle that has come to the parking lot PL1 will be described. In this embodiment, when it is said to detect the user U1 who has come to the parking lot PL1, it also includes detecting the vehicle C1 (in which the user U1 is riding) that has come to the parking lot PL1. Similarly, when it is said to detect the vehicle C1 that has come to the parking lot PL1, it also includes detecting the user U1 (riding in the vehicle C1) who has come to the parking lot PL1. Further, in this embodiment, when it is said that the user U1 riding in the vehicle C1 owns the electronic device MC1, it includes that the user U1 holds the electronic device MC1 by hand, the user U1 places the electronic device MC1 at some place in the vehicle C1 after leaving it from the hand, and the like.

[0045] Also, here, mainly, a detection method for detecting a vehicle that has come to the parking lot PL1 using the electronic device MC1 and the device TM1 will be described, but the same applies to the case of using the electronic device MC2 and the device TM2. Further, in FIGS. 6 to 17 and the like, mainly, a predetermined interaction is performed between the electronic device MC1 and the device TM1 using wireless communication (particularly, short-range wireless communication), and on the condition that it is detected that the electronic device MC1 and the device TM1 are in proximity, an example of a detection method for detecting that the user U1 (vehicle C1) who owns the electronic device MC1 has come to the parking lot PL1 is shown. In this way, when the proximity between the electronic device MC1 and the device TM1 is detected and it is detected that the vehicle C1 in which the user U1 is riding has come to the parking lot PL1, the right (use right) to use the parking space in the parking lot PL1 is granted to the user U1 (and co-riders).

[0046] [Example of Entrance Detection Using Short-Range Wireless Communication] First, a detection method for detecting a vehicle C1 that has come to a parking lot PL1 using short-range wireless communication (for example, contactless communication, NFC (Near field communication)) will be described. For example, assume that both the electronic device MC1 and the device TM1 are devices corresponding to short-range wireless communication. In this case, when the user U1 (vehicle C1) who owns the electronic device MC1 comes to the parking lot PL1, the user U1 holds the electronic device MC1 and brings the electronic device MC1 close to the device TM1, so that short-range wireless communication is performed between the electronic device MC1 and the device TM1. Through this communication, the electronic device MC1 can acquire the installation location identification information (identification information for specifying the parking lot PL1) stored in the storage unit 160 of the device TM1, and the device TM1 can acquire the device identification information (identification information for specifying the electronic device MC1) stored in the storage unit 173 of the electronic device MC1. Thereby, both the electronic device MC1 and the device TM1 can acquire the installation location identification information and the device identification information as predetermined information (for example, entry information, exit information). Then, at least one of the electronic device MC1 and the device TM1 transmits the acquired predetermined information to the server 100, so that the control unit 120 of the server 100 can detect that the user U1 (vehicle C1) has come to the parking lot PL1 or that the user U1 (vehicle C1) has left the parking lot PL1.

[0047] For example, when the device TM1 and the electronic device MC1 are in proximity, a predetermined interaction is performed between the device TM1 and the electronic device MC1 using wireless communication, and the control unit 150 of the device TM1 can acquire the device identification information of the electronic device MC1. In this case, the control unit 150 of the device TM1 can transmit entry information including the acquired device identification information of the electronic device MC1 and the installation location identification information (identification information of the parking lot PL1) stored in the storage unit 160 to the server 100.

[0048] Also, for example, when the device TM1 and the electronic device MC1 are in proximity, a predetermined communication is performed between the device TM1 and the electronic device MC1 using wireless communication, and the control unit 172 of the electronic device MC1 can acquire the installation location identification information (identification information of the parking lot PL1) stored in the storage unit 160 of the device TM1. In this case, the control unit 172 of the electronic device MC1 can transmit the entry information including the acquired installation location identification information (identification information of the parking lot PL1) and the device identification information of the electronic device MC1 to the server 100.

[0049] Here, the entry information is information for notifying the server 100 that a vehicle (i.e., a user (e.g., user U1)) that is granted the right to use a parking space has come to a location where parking lot management is executed (e.g., parking lot PL1). For example, the entry information includes information for identifying a location where parking lot management is executed (e.g., parking lot PL1) and an electronic device (e.g., electronic device MC1) owned by a user (e.g., user U1) who is granted the right to use a parking space.

[0050] Note that one of the device TM1 and the electronic device MC1 may transmit the entry information to the server 100, or both the device TM1 and the electronic device MC1 may transmit the entry information to the server 100. When both the device TM1 and the electronic device MC1 transmit the entry information to the server 100, since each element (device identification information, installation location identification information) included in the entry information received from both sides matches, the control unit 120 of the server 100 can execute the registration process regarding the electronic device MC1 more appropriately.

[0051] [Example of entry detection using wireless communication] Next, a detection method for detecting user U1 who has come to parking lot PL1 using wireless communication other than short-range wireless communication (for example, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth) will be described. For example, assume that both electronic device MC1 and device TM1 are devices corresponding to wireless communication. In this case, when user U1 who owns electronic device MC1 approaches parking lot PL1, wireless communication is performed between electronic device MC1 and device TM1. Through this communication, electronic device MC1 can acquire the installation location identification information stored in the storage unit 160 of device TM1, and device TM1 can acquire the device identification information stored in the storage unit 173 of electronic device MC1. As a result, both electronic device MC1 and device TM1 can acquire predetermined information (for example, entry information). Then, by transmitting the acquired entry information to server 100, control unit 120 of server 100 can detect that user U1 has come to parking lot PL1. In this case, as described above, one of device TM1 and electronic device MC1 may transmit the entry information to server 100, or both device TM1 and electronic device MC1 may transmit the entry information to server 100. Note that it may be detected that user U1 has come to parking lot PL1 on the condition that electronic device MC1 has approached device TM1 to a predetermined distance (for example, several meters to several tens of meters). For example, based on the reception intensity of the radio wave exchanged between electronic device MC1 and device TM1, it is possible to determine that electronic device MC1 has approached within a predetermined range with device TM1 as the reference. Therefore, it may be detected that electronic device MC1 has approached device TM1 using the determination method based on the reception intensity of the radio wave.

[0052] [Example of entry detection using location information] Next, a detection method for detecting user U1 who has come to parking lot PL1 using the location information of electronic device MC1 will be described. For example, the location information acquired by the location information acquisition unit 175 of electronic device MC1 is transmitted to server 100 at a predetermined timing. In this case, based on the location of parking lot PL1 in the map information stored in storage unit 130 and the location information of electronic device MC1, control unit 120 of server 100 can detect that user U1 has come to parking lot PL1.

[0053] [Example of Entrance Detection Using Image Reading] Next, a detection method for detecting user U1 who has come to parking lot PL1 using image acquisition unit 174 of electronic device MC1 will be described. For example, predetermined image information (e.g., one-dimensional code, two-dimensional code) is provided within parking lot PL1 or in its vicinity (e.g., devices TM1, TM2). This image information shall be information capable of reading identification information that can identify parking lot PL1. For example, a sticker with a QR code is attached to the outside of device TM1. When user U1 who owns electronic device MC1 comes to parking lot PL1, user U1 brings the electronic device MC1 in their hand closer to device TM1 and uses image acquisition unit 174 to read the QR code described on the outside of device TM1. By this reading, control unit 172 of electronic device MC1 can acquire identification information that can identify parking lot PL1. Therefore, by control unit 172 of electronic device MC1 sending entrance information including the acquired identification information of parking lot PL1 and the device identification information of electronic device MC1 to server 100, control unit 120 of server 100 can detect that user U1 has come to parking lot PL1.

[0054] [Example of Entrance Detection Using User's Manual Operation] Next, a detection method for detecting user U1 who has come to parking lot PL1 using the manual operation of user U1 who owns electronic device MC1 will be described. For example, when user U1 who owns electronic device MC1 comes to parking lot PL1, user U1 performs a predetermined operation using UI unit 180 of electronic device MC1. For example, a character input operation, a selection operation, etc. indicating that they have come to parking lot PL1 are performed. By this predetermined operation, control unit 172 of electronic device MC1 can acquire identification information that can identify parking lot PL1. Therefore, by control unit 172 of electronic device MC1 sending entrance information including the acquired identification information of parking lot PL1 and the device identification information of electronic device MC1 to server 100, control unit 120 of server 100 can detect that user U1 has come to parking lot PL1.

[0055] [Example of Detecting Vehicles Exiting the Parking Lot] Next, a detection method for the server 100 to detect the exit of a vehicle that has entered the parking lot PL1 from the parking lot PL1 will be described. Since the server 100 can detect a vehicle entering the parking lot PL1 by any of the above-described detection methods, the server 100 can detect a vehicle exiting the parking lot PL1 by the same method as the detection method at the time of entry.

[0056] Here, when a vehicle entering the parking lot PL1 is detected by the server 100, information about the vehicle (or user, electronic device) and the parking lot PL1 is stored in the parking lot management DB200 (device identification information 208) and the electronic device management DB210 (parking lot identification information 213). Therefore, based on the contents of the parking lot management DB200 (device identification information 208) and the electronic device management DB210 (parking lot identification information 213), it is possible to determine a vehicle that is in the parking lot PL1. For example, the control unit 120 of the server 100 detects a vehicle approaching the entrance / exit EE1 or EE2 in the same manner as the detection method at the time of entry, and if the detected vehicle is a vehicle that is in the process of entering, it is possible to detect the exit of the detected vehicle.

[0057] Also, similar to the example of entry detection using image reading and the example of entry detection using the manual operation of the user, etc., the exit may be detected using image reading, or the exit may be detected using the manual operation of the user.

[0058] [Example of the Configuration of the Parking Lot Management DB] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the parking lot management DB200 stored in the storage unit 130.

[0059] In the parking lot management DB200, the number of available parking spaces 202, the number of entering vehicles 203, the usage fee 204, the parking space identification information 205, the parking space usage information 206, the entry time 207, and the device identification information 208 are stored in association with the parking lot identification information 201. Further, in the parking lot management DB200, image information for displaying the layout of the parking spaces (see FIG. 6) is stored in association with the parking lot identification information 201 and the parking space identification information 205.

[0060] The parking lot identification information 201 is identification information for identifying the parking lot in which the parking spaces to be managed are installed. In FIG. 4, for ease of explanation, an example is shown in which the symbol "PL1" of the parking lot PL1 shown in FIG. 1 is stored in the parking lot identification information 201 as the identification information of the parking lot PL1.

[0061] The number of available parking spaces 202 is information indicating the number of vehicles that can be parked in the parking lot to be managed. That is, the number of parking spaces provided in the parking lot to be managed is stored in the number of available parking spaces 202.

[0062] The number of entering vehicles 203 is information indicating the number of vehicles that have entered the parking lot to be managed. Specifically, for the available parking lot, the number obtained by subtracting the number of vehicles detected by the detection method for detecting the exit of the vehicle described above from the number of vehicles detected by the detection method for detecting the entry of the vehicle described above is stored in the number of entering vehicles 203. For example, assume that the parking lot PL1 is available from 5:00 am to 23:00 pm, and no vehicle is parked during the unavailable time period. In this case, the control unit 120 of the server 100 calculates the total value of the vehicles that have entered after 5:00 am (total entry value) and the total value of the vehicles that have exited after 5:00 am (total exit value), and the number obtained by subtracting the total exit value from the calculated total entry value is stored in the number of entering vehicles 203 corresponding to the parking lot PL1. Note that the number stored in the number of entering vehicles 203 is the number of vehicles existing in the parking lot to be managed, and does not mean the number of vehicles parked in the parking spaces provided in the parking lot to be managed.

[0063] The usage fee 204 is information indicating the usage fee of the parking lot to be managed. For example, when a vehicle parked in the parking lot PL1 exits, the control unit 120 of the server 100 calculates the elapsed time from the time stored in the entry time 207 until its exit, and based on this elapsed time and the information stored in the usage fee 204, it is possible to calculate the usage fee to be billed to the user of the vehicle. For example, if a vehicle that entered and parked in the parking lot PL1 at 7:30 am exits at 1:00 pm, the time from entering the parking lot PL1 until exiting is 5 hours and 30 minutes. In this case, the control unit 120 of the server 100 calculates 1100 yen as the usage fee to be billed to the user of the vehicle.

[0064] The parking space identification information 205 is identification information for identifying each parking space installed in the parking lot to be managed. In FIG. 4, for ease of explanation, an example is shown in which each symbol of the parking spaces PS1 to PS21 shown in FIG. 1 is stored in the parking space identification information 205 as the identification information of each parking space.

[0065] The parking space usage information 206 is management information for managing the presence or absence of use of each parking space installed in the parking lot to be managed. In FIG. 4, for ease of explanation, an example is shown in which "in use" is stored in the used parking spaces and "available" is stored in the available parking spaces.

[0066] The entry time 207 is time information indicating the time when a user (boarding a vehicle) enters the parking lot to be managed. For example, when the electronic device MC1 is brought close to the device TM1 installed in the parking lot PL1, predetermined communication is performed between the device TM1 and the electronic device MC1, and the entry information is transmitted to the server 100. As a result, the server 100 can detect that the user U1 has come to the parking lot PL1. This detection time is stored in the entry time 212 (see FIG. 5). Then, at the timing when the vehicle C1 in which the user U1 is riding parks in the parking space, the value (time) of the entry time 212 is stored in the entry time 207.

[0067] The device identification information 208 is device identification information for identifying devices owned by users who use each parking space installed in the parking lot to be managed. This device identification information is, for example, information that can uniquely identify each device (for example, terminal identification information, serial information). As the device identification information, for example, IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) can be used. In FIG. 4, for ease of explanation, an example is shown in which each reference numeral of the electronic devices MC1 and MC2 shown in FIG. 1 is stored in the device identification information 208 as the identification information of each electronic device.

[0068] [Configuration example of electronic device management DB] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a configuration example of the electronic device management DB 210 stored in the storage unit 130. The electronic device management DB 210 manages electronic devices used by each user in one or more parking lots. For example, it is possible to store and register in the electronic device management DB 210 an electronic device that has undergone a predetermined procedure for using the parking lot management system according to the present embodiment. For example, it is possible to register as a management target an electronic device in which an application (parking lot management application) for using the parking lot management system is installed.

[0069] In the electronic device management DB 210, the entry time 212, the parking lot identification information 213, the parking space identification information 214, and the waiting information 215 are stored in association with the device identification information 211. Since the device identification information 211, the entry time 212, the parking lot identification information 213, and the parking space identification information 214 correspond to the respective information of the same name shown in FIG. 3, the description here is omitted.

[0070] The waiting information 215 is information indicating whether waiting information has been transmitted when a user enters a parking lot to be managed. In FIG. 5, for ease of explanation, an example is shown where "transmitted" is stored in the electronic device to which the waiting information has been transmitted, and "-" is stored in the electronic device to which the waiting information has not been transmitted. For example, when user U1 enters parking lot PL1, if there is no available parking space in parking lot PL1, the waiting information is transmitted to the electronic device MC1 owned by user U1. Based on this waiting information, guidance information indicating a full lot is displayed on the UI unit 180 of the electronic device MC1. For example, the display screen 400 shown in FIG. 10 is displayed.

[0071] Note that each piece of information in each DB shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 is an example of information used for parking lot management. If necessary, some information may be omitted, or other information may be used. Also, in FIGS. 4 and 5, an example of using 2 DBs is shown, but for the information required for parking lot management, it may be managed using 1 or 3 or more DBs. Further, for the information required for parking lot management, it may be managed by 1 device, or by a plurality of devices.

[0072] [Example of display when there is an available parking space] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of the display screen 300 displayed on the UI unit 180 when the electronic device MC1 is brought close to the device TM1. FIGS. 6 to 8 show examples where at least a part of the parking spaces PS1 to PS21 installed in the parking lot PL1 is vacant. Here, an example is shown when the electronic device MC1 is brought close to the device TM1, but the same applies when the electronic device MC1 is brought close to the device TM2.

[0073] Note that regarding the user operation of the electronic device MC1 shown in this embodiment, when it is performed by the driver driving the vehicle C1, it is assumed that the vehicle C1 is stopped. Also, when it is performed by a passenger other than the driver, it may be performed while the vehicle C1 is in motion.

[0074] The display screen 300 is a display screen indicating that the user U1 who owns the electronic device MC1 has come to the parking lot PL1. On the display screen 300, a message display area 301, a parking space guidance image display area 302, a current location marker 303, an OK button 304, and a cancel button 305 are displayed.

[0075] In the message display area 301, it is displayed that the vehicle C1 in which the user U1 who owns the electronic device MC1 rides has entered the parking lot PL1, and that there is an available parking space.

[0076] In the parking space guidance image display area 302, a parking space image showing the parking spaces PS1 to PS21 installed in the parking lot PL1 is displayed according to the arrangement of the parking spaces PS1 to PS21. Also, the usage status of the parking space is displayed in each parking space image. That is, "In use" is displayed for the used parking space, and "Empty" is displayed for the available parking space. Also, as another display mode capable of distinguishing between the used parking space and the available parking space, it may be used. For example, the colors of the used parking space and the available parking space are changed (for example, the used parking space is displayed in red and the available parking space is displayed in green), or the sizes of the used parking space and the available parking space are changed (for example, the used parking space is displayed smaller and the available parking space is displayed larger). It is also possible to display them using various display modes such as blinking display and changing the line thickness to distinguish between the used parking space and the available parking space. In FIG. 6, an example of displaying the used parking space and the available parking space distinguishable by surrounding the available parking space with a thick line frame together with the character displays of "In use" and "Empty" is shown. In FIG. 6, the available parking spaces (with the character display of "In use" inside the rectangle) are indicated by reference numerals 306 to 309. Thereby, the user U1 can easily visually confirm the available parking spaces. Note that each of these pieces of information is displayed based on the parking lot management DB200.

[0077] The current location identifier 303 displays the current location of the user U1 (electronic device MC1) in the parking lot PL1 (the current location of the vehicle C1). For example, the server 100 obtains the location information acquired by the location information acquisition unit (e.g., GPS device) provided in the electronic device MC1 through wireless communication, and thus the control unit 120 of the server 100 can acquire the location of the user U1 who owns the electronic device MC1. Therefore, the control unit 120 can display the current location identifier 303 based on the location information of the parking lot PL1 in the map information stored in the storage unit 130 and the location information of the user U1. However, it is also assumed that GPS signals cannot be received indoors. In this case, the location of the user U1 who owns the electronic device MC1 can be acquired by using a location measurement technique that utilizes the radio wave intensity related to the communication performed between the wireless devices (e.g., Wi-Fi devices, devices TM1, TM2, etc.) installed inside or around the parking lot PL1 and the electronic device MC1. Also, when it is detected that the user U1 who owns the electronic device MC1 has come to the parking lot PL1 by using short-range wireless communication between the electronic device MC1 and the device TM1, the location of the user U1 at the time of detection is considered to be close to the installation location of the device TM1. Therefore, at the time of detection, the location of the user U1 can be estimated based on the installation location of the device TM1. Through these, the user U1 can easily confirm his / her own location and the location of the available parking spaces.

[0078] The OK button 304 is a button that is selected when it is desired to use the available parking space displayed in the parking space guidance image display area 302. An example of the display when the selection operation of the OK button 304 is performed is shown in FIG. 7.

[0079] The cancel button 305 is a button that is selected when canceling the use of an available parking space displayed in the parking space guidance image display area 302. For example, the cancel button 305 is selected when the user U1 determines that it is not possible to secure a desired parking space in the parking lot PL1. In this case, on the condition that the vehicle C1 has left the parking lot PL1, the right to use the parking space in the parking lot PL1 granted to the user U1 is revoked. In the present embodiment, when each piece of information is stored in the entry time 212 and the parking lot identification information 213 of the electronic device management DB210, it is said that the right to use the parking space in the parking lot PL1 is granted. Also, when each piece of information is deleted from the entry time 207 and the device identification information 208 of the parking lot management DB200 and the information is deleted from the parking space identification information 214 of the electronic device management DB210, it is said that the right to use the parking space in the parking lot PL1 is revoked. Note that the granting and revocation of the right to use shown here are examples, and the granting and revocation of the right to use may be determined based on other conditions. For example, the right to use may be granted at the timing when the entry of the vehicle C1 into the parking lot PL1 is detected, or the right to use may be revoked at the timing when the departure of the vehicle C1 from the parking lot PL1 is detected.

[0080] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of the display screen 310 displayed on the UI unit 180 after the selection operation of the OK button 304 on the display screen 300.

[0081] The display screen 310 is a display screen indicating that the user U1 transmits the identification information of the parking space after moving to the desired parking space. On the display screen 310, a message display area 311, an image reading area 312, a reading button 313, and a return button 314 are displayed.

[0082] In the message display area 311, it is displayed that after the vehicle C1 parks in the parking space desired by the user U1, the use start image GS1 (see FIG. 2) attached to the parking space is read.

[0083] The image reading area 312 is an area where the captured image acquired using the image acquisition unit 174 of the electronic device MC1 is displayed. Specifically, in order to acquire the usage start image GS1 attached to the parking space desired by the user U1, the usage start image GS1 is displayed within the image reading area 312. For example, after the user U1 parks the vehicle C1 in the desired parking space, by directing the optical axis of the lens of the electronic device MC1 towards the usage start image GS1 (see FIG. 2) attached inside or near the parking space, it is possible to display the usage start image GS1 within the image reading area 312. Thereby, the user U1 can confirm the usage start image GS1 displayed within the image reading area 312.

[0084] The reading button 313 is a button selected when determining the reading operation when the usage start image GS1 is displayed in the image reading area 312. An example of the display when the selection operation of the reading button 313 is performed is shown in FIG. 8.

[0085] The back button 314 is a button selected when the user wants to return to the previous display screen. For example, the back button 314 is selected when the user wants to confirm again the position of the available parking space displayed in the parking space guidance image display area 302 (see FIG. 6).

[0086] In this example, based on the manual operation of the user U1, the electronic device MC1 acquires parking space information regarding the parking space used by the user U1, and based on the parking space information, the electronic device MC1 transmits parking information indicating that the vehicle C1 in which the user U1 rides has parked to the server 100. However, when the user U1 approaches the parking space, the electronic device MC1 may automatically acquire the parking space information regarding the parking space, and based on the parking space information, the electronic device MC1 may automatically transmit the parking information to the server 100. Regarding the distance between the electronic device MC1 and the parking space, it is possible to use the determination method based on the above-described position information, the determination method based on wireless communication, etc.

[0087] For example, in a state where a display screen corresponding to the display screen 310 is being displayed, when user U1 approaches an available parking space and it is detected that user U1 has been present in that parking space or its vicinity for a predetermined time (e.g., several minutes) or more, the control unit 172 of the electronic device MC1 can acquire the identification information of that parking space and transmit parking information including that identification information to the server 100. For example, a communication device capable of outputting a predetermined radio wave (a radio wave including information capable of identifying each parking space (e.g., a beacon)) is installed in each parking space, and based on the reception intensity of the radio wave output from this communication device, the control unit 172 can determine the distance between each parking space and the electronic device MC1. Then, when the control unit 172 detects a radio wave whose reception intensity is equal to or greater than a predetermined value, it transmits parking information including the identification information of the parking space where the communication device that output that radio wave is installed to the server 100.

[0088] Also, for example, a communication device capable of short-range wireless communication is installed in each parking space, and based on a predetermined interaction having occurred between this communication device and the electronic device MC1, the electronic device MC1 can acquire parking space information regarding the parking space where this communication device is installed, and based on that parking space information, the electronic device MC1 can transmit parking information to the server 100.

[0089] Also, for example, the server 100 may acquire parking information based on the position information acquired by the electronic device MC1. For example, the position information acquired by the electronic device MC1 is transmitted to the server 100, and the control unit 120 of the server 100 compares that position information with the positions of the parking spaces in the map information stored in the storage unit 130, and based on the degree of coincidence, can determine the parking space that user U1 has approached. Therefore, when user U1 approaches an available parking space and it is detected that user U1 has been present in that parking space or its vicinity for a predetermined time (e.g., several minutes) or more, the control unit 120 can acquire the identification information of that parking space and acquire parking information based on that identification information.

[0090] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a display screen 320 displayed on the UI unit 180 after a selection operation of the read button 313 is performed on the display screen 310.

[0091] The display screen 320 is a display screen that is displayed after the registration of the parking space used by the user U1 is completed. The display screen 320 displays a message display area 321, an exit button 322, and a cancel button 323.

[0092] In the message display area 321, it is displayed that the registration of the parking space used by the user U1 is completed and that the exit button should be selected when the use of the parking space is completed.

[0093] The exit button 322 is a button that is selected when the use of the registered parking space is completed. An example of the display when the selection operation of the exit button 322 is performed is shown in FIG. 9.

[0094] The cancel button 323 is a button that is selected when canceling the use registration of the parking space. For example, the cancel button 323 is selected when, after securing a parking space that was planned to be used, the use of that parking space becomes unnecessary. In addition, when the cancel button 323 is selected after the user U1 has been able to secure a parking space, the use right of the parking space granted to the user U1 may be erased.

[0095] After the display screen 320 is displayed, various information (such as shopping information, menu information, link information) regarding the facility (such as commercial facilities like restaurants and shopping centers) where the parking lot PL1 is installed may be displayed on the UI unit 180 of the electronic device MC1. For example, a restaurant button may be displayed on the display screen 320, and after a selection operation of this restaurant button, various information regarding the restaurant may be displayed. Note that these various pieces of information are stored in the storage unit 130 in association with the parking lot PL1, and it is possible to display each display screen on the UI unit 180 of the electronic device MC1 using the stored various pieces of information. Or, these various pieces of information may be received from the server 100, and it is possible to display each display screen on the UI unit 180 of the electronic device MC1 using the received various pieces of information. Thereby, the user U1 can promptly execute a desired action after securing a parking space. Note that these various pieces of information can also be provided to the user U1 in advance even when the lot is full. For example, a restaurant button, a shopping button, etc. may be displayed on the display screen 400 shown in FIG. 10, and after a selection operation of these buttons, various information regarding the selected button may be displayed. In this case, the user U1 can view information regarding desired food, products, etc. while waiting for a parking space to become available.

[0096] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of the display screen 330 displayed on the UI unit 180 after a selection operation of the checkout button 322 on the display screen 320.

[0097] The display screen 330 is a display screen displayed after the user U1 performs an operation to end the use of the parking space. On the display screen 330, a message display area 331 and a confirmation button 332 are displayed.

[0098] In the message display area 331, it is displayed that the registration of the end of the use of the parking space used by the user U1 is completed and that the user is leaving that parking space.

[0099] The confirmation button 332 is a button that is selected after checking the content of the message display area 331. For example, when the parking lot management application is launched and each process shown in FIGS. 6 to 9 is executed, the parking lot management application ends after the selection operation of the confirmation button 332 is performed.

[0100] [Example of display when there is no available parking space] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a display screen 400 displayed on the UI unit 180 when the electronic device MC1 is brought close to the device TM1. FIGS. 10 to 12 show an example in which all of the parking spaces PS1 to PS21 installed in the parking lot PL1 are in use. Since the display screen 400 is a modified part of the display screen 300 shown in FIG. 6, the same reference numerals are given to the common parts with the display screen 300 and some of the descriptions thereof are omitted. Also, among the examples shown in FIGS. 10 to 12, the parts common to the examples shown in FIGS. 6 to 9 are appropriately omitted in the illustration and description.

[0101] The display screen 400 is a display screen indicating that the user U1 who owns the electronic device MC1 has come to the parking lot PL1. The display screen 400 displays a message display area 401, a parking space guidance image display area 302, a current location marker 303, an OK button 304, and a cancel button 305.

[0102] In the message display area 401, it is displayed that the entry of the user U1 who owns the electronic device MC1 into the parking lot PL1 has been accepted and that there is no available parking space. For example, in the message display area 401, it is possible to display the number of vehicles waiting for an available parking space. Regarding this number, as described above, it can be displayed based on the number of available parking spaces 202 and the number of entry vehicles 203 in the parking lot management DB200 (see FIG. 4).

[0103] The OK button 304 is a button that is selected when, after waiting under the conditions displayed in the message display area 401, one desires guidance on available parking spaces. FIG. 11 shows an example of the display when an available parking space is detected after the selection operation of the OK button 304.

[0104] The cancel button 305 is a button that is selected when canceling the waiting under the conditions displayed in the message display area 401. For example, the cancel button 305 is selected when it is determined that a parking space cannot be secured within the desired time at the parking lot PL1. In this case, the right to use the parking space at the parking lot PL1 granted to the user U1 may be revoked.

[0105] [Example of display when an available parking space is detected] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of the display screen 410 displayed on the UI unit 180 when an available parking space is detected after the selection operation of the OK button 304 on the display screen 400. Note that since the display screen 410 is a modified version of a part of the display screen 300 shown in FIG. 6, the common parts with the display screen 300 are given common reference numerals and some of their descriptions are omitted.

[0106] The display screen 410 is a display screen for guiding the user U1 to the available parking space. The display screen 410 displays a message display area 411, a parking space guidance image display area 302, a current location marker 303, an available parking space display area 412, a use button 413, and a cancel button 305.

[0107] The message display area 411 displays a message for guiding the detected available parking space and a message for confirming the availability of using the available parking space. Note that the position of the available parking space can be displayed in a display mode distinguishable from other parking spaces. In FIG. 11, the position of the available parking space is surrounded by a thick line and shown as the available parking space display area 412.

[0108] The use button 413 is a button selected when it is desired to use the available parking space displayed in the message display area 411. An example of the display when the selection operation of the use button 413 is performed is shown in FIG. 12.

[0109] The cancel button 305 is a button selected when canceling the use of the available parking space displayed in the message display area 411. For example, the cancel button 305 is selected when it is determined that the available parking space displayed in the message display area 411 is not the desired parking space. In this case, the right to use the parking space in the parking lot PL1 granted to the user U1 may be canceled. Also, it is assumed that no operation is performed by the user U1 until a predetermined time (for example, several minutes to several tens of minutes) elapses based on the timing when the display screen 410 is displayed. For example, it is also assumed that other schedules occur or the parking time runs out after the right to use the parking space in the parking lot PL1 is granted. Considering such cases, when a predetermined time (for example, several minutes to several tens of minutes) elapses based on the timing when the display screen 410 is displayed, the right to use the parking space in the parking lot PL1 may be canceled in the same manner as when the selection operation of the cancel button 305 is performed. In the present embodiment, an example is shown in which the right to use the parking space in the parking lot PL1 is canceled when 5 minutes elapse based on the timing when the display screen 410 is displayed. An example of the display in this case is shown in FIG. 13.

[0110] FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of the display screen 420 displayed on the UI unit 180 after the selection operation of the use button 413 on the display screen 410. Since the display screen 420 is a modified part of the display screen 310 shown in FIG. 7, the same reference numerals are given to the common parts with the display screen 310 and some of the descriptions thereof are omitted.

[0111] The display screen 420 is a display screen indicating that after moving to the available parking space displayed in the message display area 411 (see FIG. 11), the identification information of the parking space is transmitted. On the display screen 420, a message display area 421, an image reading area 312, a reading button 313, and a return button 314 are displayed.

[0112] In the message display area 421, it is displayed that after moving to the available parking space displayed in the message display area 411 (see FIG. 11), the start - of - use image GS1 (see FIG. 2) pasted on the parking space is to be read.

[0113] The return button 314 is a button to be selected when wanting to return to the previous display screen. For example, when wanting to confirm again the position of the available parking space displayed in the parking space guidance image display area 302 (see FIG. 11), the return button 314 is selected.

[0114] The display example after the selection operation of the reading button 313 is the same as that in FIGS. 8 and 9.

[0115] [Display example when a predetermined time has elapsed without user operation] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of the display screen 430 displayed on the UI unit 180 after a predetermined time has elapsed without user operation on the display screen 410 (see FIG. 11).

[0116] The display screen 430 is a display screen displayed after a predetermined time (for example, several minutes to several tens of minutes) has elapsed based on the timing when the display screen 410 was displayed. On the display screen 430, a message display area 431 and a confirmation button 432 are displayed.

[0117] In the message display area 431, it is displayed that no user operation has been performed until a predetermined time has elapsed since guiding the user U1 to the available parking space, and that the use of the guided available parking space is to be canceled.

[0118] The confirmation button 432 is a button that is selected after the content of the message display area 431 is confirmed. For example, when the parking lot management application is launched and each of the above-described processes is executed, the parking lot management application ends after the selection operation of the confirmation button 432 is performed.

[0119] In addition, in the situation where the display screen 430 is displayed, it is also assumed that the user U1 does not look at the UI unit 180 of the electronic device MC1. Therefore, it is also assumed that no operation is performed by the user U1 until a predetermined time (for example, several minutes to several tens of minutes) elapses based on the timing when the display screen 430 is displayed. Considering such a case, when a predetermined time (for example, several minutes to several tens of minutes) elapses based on the timing when the display screen 430 is displayed, an end process may be executed in the same manner as when the selection operation of the confirmation button 432 is performed.

[0120] [Examples of Providing Various Information Regarding a Parking Lot] As described above, there are also paid parking lots. In this case, when a vehicle exits the parking lot, a payment process for the usage fee may be required. Also, for a user who parks a vehicle in the parking lot, the usage fee may be a concern. Also, it is conceivable that a user who parks a vehicle in the parking lot may forget the position where the vehicle is parked. In this case, it is important that the user can easily grasp the position of the parking space for the vehicle in the parking lot. Therefore, below, examples of providing various information (for example, usage fees, positions of parking spaces) regarding the parking lot to the user will be described.

[0121] [Examples of Providing Various Information Regarding a Parking Lot] FIG. 14 and FIG. 15 are diagrams showing an example of a display screen 600 displayed on the UI unit 180 of the electronic device MC1 after the vehicle C1 is parked in the parking lot PL1. Here, it is also assumed that the parking lot PL1 is installed in a commercial facility or the like. In this case, it is also assumed that the user U1 who parks the vehicle C1 in the parking lot PL1 can go shopping, use various services, eat and drink, etc. at a commercial facility or the like that can be reached on foot from the parking lot PL1. In this case, it is also assumed that the user U1 makes a payment using the electronic device MC1. When discounting the usage fee of the parking lot PL1 according to this payment, the server 100 can obtain the usage fee of the parking lot PL1 based on the payment amount. Therefore, FIGS. 14 and 15 show an example in which when shopping is done at a related facility of the parking lot PL1, the usage fee of the parking lot PL1 is subtracted according to the amount of the shopping.

[0122] FIG. 14 shows a display example of a display screen 600 that displays the usage fee related to the parking of the vehicle C1 parked in the parking lot PL1. The display screen 600 is a display screen that shows the user U1 who owns the electronic device MC1 the usage fee related to the parking in the parking lot PL1. On the display screen 600, a message display area 601, a surrounding guidance image display area 602, a confirmation button 603, a parking position identifier 605, and a current location identifier 606 are displayed. Note that the display screen 600 may be displayed at a predetermined timing (for example, at a predetermined interval, at a predetermined time), or may be displayed according to a user operation.

[0123] In the message display area 601, each information related to the usage fee and the like related to the parking of the vehicle C1 parked in the parking lot PL1 is displayed. Regarding the parking time of 76 minutes, it can be displayed based on the elapsed time from the entry time 207 (see FIG. 4) and the entry time 212 (see FIG. 5). Also, regarding the parking fee of 200 yen, it can be calculated based on the parking time of 76 minutes and the usage fee 204 (see FIG. 4). Also, as shown in FIG. 14, for example, if there is any discount or the like, that fact is displayed in the message display area 601. Note that the fee information regarding the discount or the like of the usage fee is associated with the parking lot identification information 201 of the parking lot management DB200, and the display can be made based on the fee information.

[0124] In the surrounding guidance image display area 602, an upper surface image of the surroundings including the parking lot PL1 is displayed according to the position of the electronic device MC1. In the surrounding guidance image display area 602, a parking position sign 605 indicating the position of the vehicle C1 parked in the parking lot PL1 and a current location sign 606 indicating the position of the user U1 (electronic device MC1) are also displayed. The parking position sign 605 can be displayed based on each piece of information in the parking lot management DB200 (for example, parking space identification information 205, device identification information 208). Also, for the current location sign 606, similar to the current location sign 303 described above, it can be displayed based on the position information acquired by a position information acquisition unit (for example, a GPS device) provided in the electronic device MC1. Thereby, the user U1 can easily grasp the position of the vehicle C1.

[0125] The confirmation button 603 is a button that is selected after confirming the content displayed on the display screen 600. After the selection operation of the confirmation button 603, another display screen is displayed.

[0126] FIG. 15 shows an example display of a display screen 610 that is displayed when the usage fee for parking the vehicle C1 parked in the parking lot PL1 is changed. The display screen 610 is a display screen indicating that the usage fee for parking in the parking lot PL1 has been changed. A message display area 611 and a confirmation button 612 are displayed on the display screen 610. Note that the display screen 610 may be displayed at a predetermined timing (for example, at a predetermined interval, at a predetermined time, or at the timing when the usage fee is changed), or may be displayed according to a user operation.

[0127] In the message display area 611, each piece of information regarding the change in the usage fee for parking the vehicle C1 and the like is displayed. The parking time of 95 minutes can be displayed in the same manner as the example shown in FIG. 14. Also, the parking fee of 0 yen can be calculated based on the parking time of 95 minutes, the usage fee 204 (see FIG. 4), and the purchase information of the user U1 (purchase information).

[0128] Here, an example of the server 100 acquiring the purchase information of user U1 will be described. For example, assume a case where user U1 makes a purchase at store A using electronic device MC1. For example, assume that store devices for executing purchase processing using electronic device MC1 are installed in each of store A, store B, and store C. In this case, when user U1 purchases a 3,000 yen item at store A using electronic device MC1, the store device at store A exchanges predetermined information with electronic device MC1 and executes a settlement process. In this exchange, the store device at store A can acquire the device identification information of electronic device MC1 and transmit settlement information including the device identification information and the settlement amount (3,000 yen) to server 100. As a result, server 100 can grasp that electronic device MC1 has made a 3,000 yen purchase at store A. Note that store A (for example, an operating company) and server 100 may cooperate so that server 100 can acquire the purchase information of user U1. For example, when user U1 has registered as a member of store A, the purchase history of user U1 can be acquired based on the member information. Also, server 100 may cooperate with a credit card company or an online settlement service company so that server 100 can acquire the purchase information of user U1.

[0129] [Operation Example of Server] FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing an example of a parking lot management process by server 100. This parking lot management process is executed by control unit 120 (see FIG. 3) based on a program stored in storage unit 130 (see FIG. 3). Also, this parking lot management process is constantly executed for each control cycle. Also, in this parking lot management process, FIGS. 1 to 15 will be appropriately referred to for the description.

[0130] First, the control unit 120 determines whether it has received entry information via the network NW1 (step S501). For example, on the condition that a predetermined interaction has occurred between the electronic device MC1 and the device TM1 using wireless communication, the control unit 172 of the electronic device MC1 detects that it is in the vicinity of the device TM1 and transmits the entry information to the server 100. In this way, when the control unit 172 transmits the entry information to the server 100, it causes the storage unit 173 to hold the entry information until the user U1 (vehicle C1) exits the parking lot PL1. That is, when a predetermined interaction occurs between the electronic device MC1 and the device TM1 using wireless communication while the entry information is held in the storage unit 173 and it is detected that the device TM1 is in the vicinity of the electronic device MC1, the control unit 172 of the electronic device MC1 determines that the vehicle C1 has exited the parking lot PL1. In this case, the control unit 172 of the electronic device MC1 transmits to the server 100 the exit information indicating that the vehicle C1 has exited the parking lot PL1. This exit information is shown in step S514.

[0131] Note that in FIG. 1, an example of the parking lot PL1 having the common entrance / exit EE1 and EE2 for both the entrance and the exit is shown, but there are also parking lots where the entrance and the exit are different. Thus, for a parking lot where the entrance and the exit are different, devices (corresponding to the devices TM1 and TM2) are installed near each of the entrance and the exit. That is, near the entrance, an entrance device (corresponding to the devices TM1 and TM2) for detecting the entry of the vehicle C1 is installed, and near the exit, an exit device (corresponding to the devices TM1 and TM2) for detecting the exit of the vehicle C1 is installed. Then, when it is detected that the electronic device MC1 is in the vicinity of the entrance device, it is possible to determine that the user U1 (vehicle C1) has entered. Also, when it is detected that the electronic device MC1 is in the vicinity of the exit device, it is possible to determine that the user U1 (vehicle C1) has exited.

[0132] Next, based on the received entry information, the control unit 120 updates the parking lot management DB 200 (see FIG. 4) and the electronic device management DB 210 (see FIG. 5) (step S502). For example, the control unit 120 updates each piece of information stored in the electronic device management DB 210 in association with the device identification information 211 "MC1" related to the electronic device MC1 included in the received entry information. Specifically, the control unit 120 stores the parking lot identification information "PL1" related to the parking lot PL1 included in the received entry information in the parking lot identification information 213 of the electronic device management DB 210, and stores the time when the server 100 received the entry information as the entry time 212. In this way, by storing each piece of information in the entry time 212 and the parking lot identification information 213 of the electronic device management DB 210, the user U1 who owns the electronic device MC1 included in the received entry information is granted the right (usage right) to use the parking space in the parking lot PL1. That is, step S502 is an example of an assignment process for granting the usage right to use the parking space to the user U1 who has been detected as having come to the parking lot PL1.

[0133] In addition, the control unit 120 adds "1" to the value of the number of entry vehicles 203 (see FIG. 4) corresponding to the parking lot identification information "PL1" related to the parking lot PL1 included in the received entry information. Thereby, the control unit 120 can grasp the number of vehicles entering the parking lot PL1.

[0134] Next, based on the parking lot management DB 200 (see FIG. 4), the control unit 120 determines whether there is a parking space for parking the vehicle of the user who transmitted the entry information in the parking lot related to the entry information received in step S501 (step S503). For example, when the parking lot related to the entry information received in step S501 is parking lot PL1, the number of available parking spaces 202 in parking lot PL1 is 21. Therefore, the control unit 120 compares the value of the number of available parking spaces 202 (21) with the value of the number of entered vehicles 203, and when the value of the number of entered vehicles 203 is less than or equal to the value of the number of available parking spaces 202 (21), it determines that there is a parking space for parking a new vehicle in parking lot PL1. On the other hand, when the value of the number of entered vehicles 203 is greater than the value of the number of available parking spaces 202 (21), the control unit 120 determines that there is no parking space for parking a new vehicle in parking lot PL1. If there is a parking space for parking the vehicle of the user who transmitted the entry information, the process proceeds to step S505. On the other hand, if there is no parking space for parking the vehicle of the user who transmitted the entry information (that is, parking is impossible), the process proceeds to step S504.

[0135] Next, the control unit 120 transmits waiting information to the user determined to be unable to park in step S503 (step S504). Specifically, based on the device identification information 211 of the electronic device management DB 210 (see FIG. 5), the control unit 120 transmits waiting information for guiding that there is no available parking space to the electronic device owned by the user determined that there is no parking space in step S503. For example, information for displaying the display screen 400 shown in FIG. 10 is transmitted as the waiting information. In this case, based on the difference value between the value of the number of available parking spaces 202 and the value of the number of entered vehicles 203, it is possible to display "There are currently 5 waiting vehicles" on the display screen 400 shown in FIG. 10. In addition, the control unit 120 stores "transmitted" in the waiting information 215 of the electronic device management DB 210 in association with the electronic device that transmitted the waiting information.

[0136] Next, the control unit 120 determines whether there is a parking lot where a vehicle in a waiting state exists based on the electronic device management DB 210 (see FIG. 5) (step S505). For example, when there is information in which the parking space identification information is not stored in the parking space identification information 214 among the pieces of information in which the device identification information 211, the entry time 212, and the parking lot identification information 213 are stored in the electronic device management DB 210, the control unit 120 determines that there is a vehicle in a waiting state. In this case, the control unit 120 can detect the parking lot where the vehicle in the waiting state exists based on the parking lot identification information 213. On the other hand, when the parking space identification information is stored in all of the parking space identification information 214 among the pieces of information in which the device identification information 211, the entry time 212, and the parking lot identification information 213 are stored in the electronic device management DB 210, the control unit 120 determines that there is no vehicle in a waiting state. If there is a parking lot where a vehicle in a waiting state exists, the process proceeds to step S506. On the other hand, if there is no parking lot where a vehicle in a waiting state exists, the process proceeds to step S508.

[0137] Next, the control unit 120 determines whether there is an available parking space in the parking lot where it is determined in step S505 that there is a vehicle in a waiting state based on the parking lot management DB 200 (step S506). If there is an available parking space, the process proceeds to step S507. On the other hand, if there is no available parking space, the process proceeds to step S504.

[0138] Here, assume that the parking lot where it is determined in step S505 that there is a vehicle in a waiting state is parking lot PL1. In this case, the control unit 120 determines whether there is information in which "usable" is stored in the parking space usage information 206 among the pieces of information associated with "PL1" in the parking lot identification information 201 of the parking lot management DB 200 (see FIG. 4). Then, when there is information in which "usable" is stored in the parking space usage information 206 among the pieces of information associated with "PL1" in the parking lot identification information 201, the control unit 120 determines that there is a usable parking space in the parking lot PL1. On the other hand, when there is no information in which "usable" is stored in the parking space usage information 206 among the pieces of information associated with "PL1" in the parking lot identification information 201, the control unit 120 determines that there is no usable parking space in the parking lot PL1.

[0139] Note that it is also assumed that in step S505, it is determined that there are vehicles in a waiting state in a plurality of parking lots. In such a case, after sequentially executing each process of steps S506 to S509 for one parking lot, each process of steps S506 to S509 may be sequentially executed for other parking lots, or each process of steps S506 to S509 may be sequentially executed in parallel for a plurality of parking lots.

[0140] Also, when it is determined in step S506 that there is no usable parking space, the control unit 120 transmits waiting information as described above based on the device identification information 211 of the electronic device management DB 210 (see FIG. 5). In this case, based on the information in the parking lot management DB 200, waiting information including the latest information is transmitted. When "transmitted" is stored in the waiting information 215 of the electronic device management DB 210 in association with the electronic device that has transmitted the waiting information, the storage state "transmitted" of the waiting information 215 is maintained.

[0141] The control unit 120 transmits parking space guidance information to the user determined to be in the waiting state in step S505 (step S507). Specifically, the control unit 120 transmits, to the electronic device owned by the user determined to be in the waiting state in step S505, parking space guidance information for guiding the available parking space detected in step S506, based on the device identification information 211 of the electronic device management DB 210 (see FIG. 5). In this case, since waiting information has not been transmitted to the electronic devices in which "-" is stored in the waiting information 215 of the electronic device management DB 210, the parking space guidance information will be transmitted before the transmission of the waiting information. For this reason, display information for causing a display screen (for example, display screen 300 (see FIG. 6), display screen 310 (see FIG. 7)) that guides that there is an available parking space is transmitted as the parking space guidance information to the electronic devices in which "-" is stored in the waiting information 215 of the electronic device management DB 210.

[0142] On the other hand, for the electronic device in which "transmission" is stored in the waiting information 215 of the electronic device management DB 210, waiting information for guiding that the vehicle is full has already been transmitted, and a display screen for guiding that the vehicle is full (for example, display screen 400 (see FIG. 10)) is being displayed. Therefore, for the electronic device in which "transmission" is stored in the waiting information 215 of the electronic device management DB 210, display information for causing a display screen for guiding that an empty parking space has been detected (for example, display screen 410 (see FIG. 11), display screen 420 (see FIG. 12)) is transmitted as parking space guidance information. In this case, the same information may be transmitted to other users who are in the same vehicle as the user who owns the electronic device to be transmitted, for parking space guidance. For example, the device identification information of one or more other electronic devices is stored in association with the device identification information 211 of the electronic device management DB 210, and the users of each electronic device corresponding to these device identification information are also granted the right to use, and the parking space guidance information may be transmitted. For example, together with the electronic device MC1 owned by the user U1, one or more electronic devices owned by each of one or more users who are in the same vehicle C1 as the user U1 are stored in association with the device identification information 211 of the electronic device management DB 210. In this case, based on a single entry operation of the user U1, the right to use the parking space in the parking lot PL1 is also granted to other users who are in the same vehicle as the vehicle C1. In this case, even if the schedule of the user U1 is changed and the user U1 leaves the parking lot PL1, by executing each process shown in the present embodiment using any electronic device owned by another user, it is possible to use the parking space in the parking lot PL1. However, these rights to use are the right to use one parking space, and when it is necessary to use a plurality of parking spaces, each user needs to execute a new entry operation for the number of parking spaces to be used.

[0143] In addition, it is assumed that there may be multiple vehicles in a waiting state in the parking lot PL1. In this case, based on the times stored in the entry time 212 of the electronic device management DB210 (see FIG. 5), available parking spaces are allocated in ascending order of the entry time. For example, assume that there are three vehicles in a waiting state, and among the pieces of information associated with "PL1" in the parking lot identification information 201 of the parking lot management DB200 (see FIG. 4), there are two pieces of information in which "usable" is stored in the parking space usage information 206. In this case, parking space guidance information is transmitted to the two vehicles with the earliest times stored in the entry time 212 of the electronic device management DB210, and waiting information is transmitted to the one with the latest time.

[0144] Next, the control unit 120 determines whether parking information has been received from the electronic device that transmitted the parking space guidance information in step S507 (step S508). If parking information has been received, the process proceeds to step S509. On the other hand, if parking information has not been received, the process proceeds to step S510. As shown in FIG. 13, it is also assumed that a predetermined time has elapsed without a user operation on the electronic device that transmitted the parking space guidance information. Therefore, if parking information is not received even after the predetermined time has elapsed in step S508, notification information for displaying a display screen (for example, the display screen 430 (see FIG. 13)) for canceling the guidance of the available parking space may be transmitted to the electronic device to execute the canceling process.

[0145] For example, when a selection operation of the OK button 304 is performed on the display screen 300 shown in FIG. 6 and then a selection operation of the read button 313 is performed on the display screen 310 shown in FIG. 7, the parking information regarding the parking space guidance information received from the server 100 is transmitted from the electronic device MC1 to the server 100.

[0146] Also, for example, when a selection operation of the use button 413 is performed on the display screen 410 shown in FIG. 11 and then a selection operation of the read button 313 is performed on the display screen 420 shown in FIG. 12, parking information regarding the parking space guidance information received from the server 100 is transmitted from the electronic device MC1 to the server 100. These parking information includes parking lot identification information and parking space identification information obtained based on the image obtained by the image acquisition unit 174 of the electronic device MC1, and device identification information regarding the electronic device MC1. Also, regarding each of these pieces of information, since it is used when transmitting the shipping information, it is held in the storage unit 173 of the electronic device MC1.

[0147] Next, the control unit 120 updates the parking lot management DB 200 (see FIG. 4) and the electronic device management DB 210 (see FIG. 5) based on the received parking information (step S509). For example, the control unit 120 stores the device identification information included in the parking information in the device identification information 208 in association with the parking lot identification information 201 and the parking space identification information 205 included in the received parking information, and stores the time stored in the entry time 212 of the electronic device management DB 210 corresponding to the device identification information in the entry time 207, and changes the parking space use information 206 from "usable" to "in use". Also, the control unit 120 stores the parking space identification information included in the received parking information in the parking space identification information 214 in association with the device identification information 211 and the parking lot identification information 213 included in the received parking information. In this case, if "transmission" is stored in the waiting information 215 associated with the device identification information 211 and the parking lot identification information 213 included in the received parking information, the waiting information 215 is changed to "-".

[0148] Also, after receiving the parking information, the control unit 120 transmits registration completion information for displaying a display screen 320 (see FIG. 8) indicating that the use registration of the parking space has been completed to the electronic device MC1 (step S509).

[0149] Next, the control unit 120 provides various types of information regarding the parking lot to be managed in the parking lot management DB 200 to each electronic device (step S510). For example, based on the content of the parking lot management DB 200, the control unit 120 transmits information regarding the usage fee for the parking lot to be managed to the electronic device (device identification information 211) in which information is stored in the entry time 212 and the parking lot identification information 213 of the electronic device management DB 210. The various types of information regarding the parking lot are, for example, information for displaying the display screen 600 (see FIG. 14) and the display screen 610 (see FIG. 15). Note that the various types of information regarding the parking lot may be provided at a predetermined timing (for example, at a predetermined interval or at a predetermined time), or may be provided in response to a request from the user (a predetermined user operation).

[0150] Next, the control unit 120 determines whether or not it has received the departure information (step S511). If it has received the departure information, the process proceeds to step S512. On the other hand, if it has not received the departure information, the process proceeds to step S514. For example, when a selection operation of the departure button 322 is performed on the display screen 320 shown in FIG. 8, the departure information is transmitted from the electronic device MC1 to the server 100. This departure information includes each piece of information (parking lot identification information, parking space identification information, device identification information regarding the electronic device MC1) included in the parking information. As described above, each of these pieces of information is held in the storage unit 173 of the electronic device MC1 at the timing of the transmission process of the parking information.

[0151] Next, the control unit 120 updates the parking lot management DB 200 (see FIG. 4) and the electronic device management DB 210 (see FIG. 5) based on the received shipping information (step S512). For example, the control unit 120 deletes the device identification information (the device identification information included in the shipping information) associated with the parking lot identification information 201 and the parking space identification information 205 included in the received shipping information from the device identification information 208 of the parking lot management DB 200, and deletes the associated time from the entry time 207. Further, the control unit 120 changes the parking space usage information 206 associated with the parking lot identification information 201 and the parking space identification information 205 included in the received shipping information from "in use" to "available". In addition, the control unit 120 deletes the parking space identification information 214 associated with the device identification information 211 included in the received shipping information. Note that it is assumed that the user may forget the operation at the time of shipping. In this case, the update process of step S512 may be executed on the condition that the exit information is received in step S514.

[0152] Next, the control unit 120 transmits parking space guidance end information indicating that the parking space guidance process has ended to the electronic device that transmitted the shipping information (step S513). This parking space guidance end information is display information for causing a display screen (for example, the display screen 330 (see FIG. 9)) that indicates the end of the parking space guidance process for guiding available parking spaces to be displayed.

[0153] Next, the control unit 120 determines whether or not it has received exit information via the network NW1 (step S514). If it has received the exit information, the process proceeds to step S515. On the other hand, if it has not received the exit information, the operation of the parking lot management process ends. This exit information includes each piece of information (parking lot identification information, parking space identification information, device identification information regarding the electronic device MC1) included in the parking information. As described above, each of these pieces of information is held in the storage unit 173 of the electronic device MC1 at the timing of the transmission process of the parking information.

[0154] Next, the control unit 120 updates the parking lot management DB 200 (see FIG. 4) and the electronic device management DB 210 (see FIG. 5) based on the received departure information (step S515). For example, the control unit 120 subtracts "1" from the value of the number of entry vehicles 203 (see FIG. 4) corresponding to the parking lot identification information "PL1" related to the parking lot PL1 included in the received departure information. Thereby, the control unit 120 can grasp the number of vehicles entering the parking lot PL1. Further, the control unit 120 deletes each piece of information (entry time 212, parking lot identification information 213) associated with the device identification information 211 included in the received departure information. Further, the control unit 120 can calculate the parking fee for the electronic device (vehicle) that transmitted the inventory information based on the usage fee 204 (see FIG. 4) and the entry time 212 (see FIG. 5) as needed, and present it to the user, management company, etc., or execute a settlement process. Further, when the parking lot identification information 201 of the parking lot management DB 200 is associated with fee information regarding discounts on usage fees, etc., the control unit 120 can calculate the parking fee by reflecting the discount process as needed.

[0155] [Operation Example of Electronic Device] FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing an example of a parking space reservation process by the electronic device MC1. The parking space reservation process is executed by the control unit 172 (see FIG. 3) based on a program stored in the storage unit 173 (see FIG. 3). Further, this parking space reservation process is always executed every control cycle. Further, in this parking space reservation process, FIGS. 1 to 16 will be referred to as appropriate for explanation. Note that in FIG. 17, for ease of explanation, an example is shown when the user U1 comes to the parking lot PL1 (see FIG. 1). Further, in FIG. 17, an example is shown in which the user U1 who has come to the parking lot PL1 is detected using wireless communication (for example, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth).

[0156] First, the control unit 172 determines whether it is close to the device TM1 or TM2 (see FIG. 3) in the parking lot PL1 (step S521). Similar to the example shown in FIG. 16, on the condition that a predetermined interaction has been performed between the electronic device MC1 and the device TM1 or TM2 using wireless communication, the control unit 172 can detect that it is close to the device TM1 or TM2. If it is close to the device TM1 or TM2 in the parking lot PL1, the process proceeds to step S522. On the other hand, if it is not close to any of the devices TM1 and TM2 in the parking lot PL1, the operation of the parking space reservation process ends.

[0157] Next, the control unit 172 transmits the entry information of the parking lot PL1 to the server 100 (step S522). This entry information is the same as the entry information shown in FIG. 16. Also, similar to the example shown in FIG. 16, when the control unit 172 transmits the entry information to the server 100, it causes the storage unit 173 to hold the entry information.

[0158] Next, the control unit 172 determines whether it has received waiting information from the server 100 (step S523). If it has received the waiting information, the process proceeds to step S524. On the other hand, if it has not received the waiting information, the process proceeds to step S525.

[0159] Next, the control unit 172 executes an output process of outputting the waiting information received from the server 100 in step S523 (step S524). For example, the control unit 172 causes the display screen 400 (see FIG. 10) to be displayed on the UI unit 180. Note that before causing the display screen 400 to be displayed, the control unit 172 may notify the user U1 of the display of the display screen 400 by a predetermined voice output, vibration of the electronic device MC1, etc. Also, the control unit 172 may output, from the sound output unit of the output unit 182, a voice corresponding to the display content of the display screen 400 together with the display of the display screen 400 or independently. Or, the waiting information may be transferred and output to a predetermined device (for example, a wearable device, an electronic device owned by another user) previously registered by the user U1.

[0160] Next, the control unit 172 determines whether it has received the parking space guidance information from the server 100 (step S525). If it has received the parking space guidance information, it proceeds to step S526. On the other hand, if it has not received the parking space guidance information, it returns to step S523.

[0161] Next, the control unit 172 executes an output process of outputting the parking space guidance information received from the server 100 in step S525 (step S526). Here, if the parking space guidance information is received in step S525 without receiving the waiting information in step S523, the parking space guidance information is output immediately after it is detected that the user U1 has come to the parking lot PL1. For example, the control unit 172 causes the display screen 300 (see FIG. 6) to be displayed on the UI unit 180. On the other hand, if the parking space guidance information is received in step S525 after receiving the waiting information in step S523, the parking space guidance information is output after a vacant parking space is detected after it is detected that the user U1 has come to the parking lot PL1. For example, the control unit 172 causes the display screen 410 (see FIG. 11) to be displayed on the UI unit 180.

[0162] It is also assumed that the display screen 410 is displayed on the UI unit 180 after a relatively long time has elapsed since the user U1 came to the parking lot PL1. Therefore, the control unit 172 may notify the user U1 of the display of the display screen 410 by a predetermined voice output, vibration of the electronic device MC1, etc. before displaying the display screen 410. Further, the control unit 172 may output, from the sound output unit of the output unit 182, a voice corresponding to the display content of the display screen 410 together with the display of the display screen 410 or independently. Alternatively, the parking space guidance information may be transferred and output to a predetermined device (for example, a wearable device, an electronic device owned by another user) registered in advance by the user U1.

[0163] Next, the control unit 172 determines whether parking space information has been acquired based on the operation of the user U1 or automatically (step S527). If the parking space information has been acquired, the process proceeds to step S528. On the other hand, if the parking space information has not been acquired, the acquisition determination process for the parking space information is continuously performed.

[0164] For example, when the selection operation of the read button 313 is performed with the two-dimensional code attached to the parking space guided by the parking space guidance information displayed in the image reading area 312 using the display screen 310 displayed after the selection operation of the OK button 304 on the display screen 300, the control unit 172 can determine that the parking space information has been acquired. Similarly, when the selection operation of the read button 313 is performed with the two-dimensional code attached to the parking space guided by the parking space guidance information displayed in the image reading area 312 using the display screen 420 displayed after the selection operation of the use button 413 on the display screen 410, the control unit 172 can determine that the parking space information has been acquired. The parking space information includes the parking lot identification information of the parking lot PL1 and the parking space identification information for identifying the parking space.

[0165] Next, the control unit 172 executes a transmission process of transmitting the parking information to the server 100 based on the parking space information acquired in step S527 (step S528). This parking information is the same as the parking information shown in FIG. 16. Further, after transmitting the parking information to the server 100, the control unit 172 displays on the UI unit 180 a display screen (for example, the display screen 320 (see FIG. 8)) indicating that the use registration of the parking space has been completed based on the registration completion information transmitted from the server 100.

[0166] Next, the control unit 172 determines whether or not it has acquired information regarding the parking lot based on the operation of the user U1 or automatically (step S529). If it has acquired information regarding the parking lot, the process proceeds to step S530. On the other hand, if it has not acquired information regarding the parking lot, the process proceeds to step S531. The information regarding the parking lot is, for example, the position of the parking space where the vehicle C1 is parked, the usage fee of the parking lot where the vehicle C1 is parked, and the like.

[0167] Next, the control unit 172 outputs the information regarding the parking lot from the UI unit 180 based on the information regarding the parking lot acquired in step S529. For example, the control unit 172 causes the display screens 600 (see FIG. 14) and 610 (see FIG. 15) to be displayed on the UI unit 180, or outputs the corresponding content from the UI unit 180 as voice.

[0168] Next, the control unit 172 determines whether or not it has acquired the departure information based on the operation of the user U1 or automatically (step S531). If it has acquired the departure information, the process proceeds to step S532. On the other hand, if it has not acquired the departure information, the process returns to step S529.

[0169] For example, when the selection operation of the departure button 322 on the display screen 320 (see FIG. 8) is performed, the control unit 172 can determine that it has acquired the departure information.

[0170] Next, the control unit 172 executes a transmission process of transmitting the departure information to the server 100 (step S532). This departure information is the same as the departure information shown in FIG. 16.

[0171] Next, the control unit 172 determines whether it has come close to the device TM1 or TM2 (see FIG. 3) in the parking lot PL1 again (step S533). That is, it is determined whether the vehicle C1 that has entered the parking lot PL1 has left the parking lot PL1. Similar to the example shown in FIG. 16, on the condition that a predetermined interaction has been performed between the electronic device MC1 and the device TM1 using wireless communication while the entry information is held in the storage unit 173, the control unit 172 can detect that it has come close to the device TM1 or TM2 again. If it has come close to the device TM1 or TM2 in the parking lot PL1 again, the process proceeds to step S534. On the other hand, if it is not close to any of the devices TM1 and TM2 in the parking lot PL1, the proximity determination process is repeated.

[0172] Next, the control unit 172 transmits the departure information of the parking lot PL1 to the server 100 (step S534). This departure information is the same as the departure information shown in FIG. 16. Also, when the control unit 172 transmits the departure information to the server 100, it deletes the entry information corresponding to the departure information from the storage unit 173.

[0173] [Example of providing various information related to a parking lot related to a location set as a destination] The above shows an example of providing various information related to a parking lot to a user (vehicle) who has come to the parking lot. Here, when moving by vehicle to a location that is the destination (for example, a parking lot of a commercial facility), it is conceivable to set the route to the destination using a navigation device. In this case, if the parking lot of the set destination is full and the number of waiting spaces is large, the waiting time at that parking lot may become long. Therefore, in order to shorten or eliminate the waiting time at the parking lot, it is convenient if various information (for example, full - car information, number of waiting spaces information) related to the parking lot that is the destination can be provided to the user.

[0174] [Example of setting a destination] FIG. 18 is a diagram showing an example of setting a destination using the electronic device MC1. Specifically, an example of setting a destination when moving by the vehicle C1 is shown using the display screen 700 displayed on the UI unit 180 of the electronic device MC1.

[0175] The display screen 700 is a display screen for setting a destination that the user U1 wants to move to. On the display screen 700, a destination item display area 701, a map display area 702, and a setting button 703 are displayed. Note that the display screen 700 can be displayed using known navigation technologies.

[0176] The destination item display area 701 is an area for displaying destination candidates. For example, candidates for destinations based on the current location, candidates for destinations based on the past movement history of the user, etc. are displayed in the destination item display area 701, and one or more destinations can be specified from the plurality of candidates displayed in the destination item display area 701. Note that for the method of specifying a destination, known specifying technologies such as contact operations and proximity operations can be used.

[0177] The map display area 702 is an area used when setting a destination using a map. For example, a map of the surroundings including the destination is displayed in the map display area 702, and the destination can be specified on the map displayed in the map display area 702. Note that for the method of specifying a destination on the map, known specifying technologies such as contact operations and proximity operations can be used. Also, the method of setting a destination is not limited to these, and other setting methods may be used. For example, a setting method of inputting the name of the destination and searching can be used.

[0178] The setting button 703 is a button selected when setting the destination specified in the destination item display area 701 or the map display area 702. An example of the display after the selection operation of the setting button 703 is shown in FIG. 19. Note that in FIGS. 18 and 19, an example of setting the shopping center ABC as the destination is shown.

[0179] [Example of Providing Various Information Regarding Parking Lots] FIG. 19 is a diagram showing an example of providing various information regarding a parking lot at or around a destination set using the electronic device MC1. Specifically, an example of providing various information regarding a parking lot at or around a destination is shown using a display screen 710 displayed on the UI unit 180 of the electronic device MC1.

[0180] The display screen 710 is a display screen that displays a travel route to the destination set using the display screen 700. On the display screen 710, a message display area 711, a travel route display area 712, a change button 713, and a confirmation button 714 are displayed. Note that the travel route can be set using a known navigation technique.

[0181] In the message display area 711, information regarding the travel route to the destination and various information regarding the parking lot at or around the destination are displayed. As various information regarding the parking lot at or around the destination, for example, when a parking lot is installed at the destination or an adjacent location, various information regarding the parking lot is displayed. This information can be displayed based on, for example, the number of available parking spaces 202 and the number of entered vehicles 203 in the parking lot management DB 200 (see FIG. 4). The calculation method of this display content is the same as the example shown in FIG. 10. Note that the parking rate of the parking lot may be obtained and displayed based on the number of available parking spaces 202 and the number of entered vehicles 203. The parking rate is a value indicating the congestion level of the parking lot, and for example, can be a value indicating the ratio of the number of entered vehicles to the number of available parking spaces in the parking lot. For example, the parking rate can be obtained by dividing the value of the number of entered vehicles 203 by the value of the number of available parking spaces 202.

[0182] The movement route display area 712 is an area that displays map information regarding the destination. As this map information, for example, it is possible to display a movement route 717 from the current location to the destination on a map including the current location and the destination. In FIG. 19, the current location is shown as the current location marker 715, and the destination is shown as the destination marker 716. Also, the parking lot existing at the destination is also shown as the destination marker 716, and other parking lots existing around the destination are shown by parking lot markers 718 and 719. Further, information regarding the parking lot is displayed on the destination marker 716 and the parking lot markers 718 and 719. For example, it is possible to display the presence or absence of a parking lot, the presence or absence of a full lot, the number of waiting spaces, etc. Note that regarding the method of displaying the movement route on the map, it is possible to use a known display technique. Also, regarding the position of each parking lot, position information (for example, latitude and longitude) is associated with the parking lot identification information 201 in the parking lot management DB 200, and display is possible based on that position information.

[0183] The change button 713 is a button selected when changing the destination set using the display screen 700. For example, a user who has seen the information regarding the parking lot displayed in the message display area 711 or the movement route display area 712 can check the congestion level of the parking lot at the destination. And when the congestion level of the parking lot at the destination is high, it is also conceivable to use a parking lot around the destination. Thus, when using a parking lot around the destination, it is necessary to change the parking lot around it as the destination. In this case, a selection operation of the change button 713 is performed, the display screen 700 is displayed, and it is possible to set a new destination again.

[0184] The confirmation button 714 is a button selected when confirming the destination set using the display screen 700. When a selection operation of the confirmation button 714 is performed, the navigation function is started, and a guidance operation (for example, guidance display, guidance voice output) to the destination is started.

[0185] [Operation example of the server] FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing an example of the parking lot information providing process by the server 100. This parking lot information providing process is executed by the control unit 120 (see FIG. 3) based on a program stored in the storage unit 130 (see FIG. 3). Further, this parking lot information providing process is always executed every control cycle. Also, in this parking lot information providing process, FIGS. 1 to 19 will be referred to as appropriate for explanation.

[0186] First, the control unit 120 determines whether or not destination setting information has been received via the network NW1 (step S801). For example, when a destination is specified using the display screen 700 (see FIG. 18) and the selection operation of the setting button 703 is performed, the control unit 172 of the electronic device MC1 transmits destination setting information in which information about the specified destination (for example, latitude and longitude, name, location identification information) is associated with the device identification information of the electronic device MC1 to the server 100. If the destination setting information is received, the process proceeds to step S802. On the other hand, if the destination setting information has not been received, the operation of the parking lot information providing process is terminated.

[0187] Next, the control unit 120 sets a moving route to the destination included in the destination setting information based on the destination setting information received in step S801 (step S802). As for the method of setting this moving route, it is possible to use a known setting technique.

[0188] Next, the control unit 120 acquires the destination included in the destination setting information received in step S801 and the parking lot information around the destination (step S803). Specifically, the control unit 120 extracts, from the parking lot identification information 201 of the parking lot management DB 200, the parking lot corresponding to the destination and the parking lots around the destination based on the information regarding the destination (for example, latitude and longitude, name, location identification information). For the parking lots around the destination, for example, parking lots within a predetermined range (for example, within a circle having a radius of a predetermined value) with the destination as a reference may be extracted, or a predetermined number of parking lots with a short distance from the destination as a reference may be extracted. Then, the control unit 120 extracts the number of available parking spaces 202 and the number of entered vehicles 203 of the extracted one or more parking lots, and determines, for each parking lot, the presence or absence of full occupancy, the number of waiting spaces, the parking rate, etc. of the extracted one or more parking lots.

[0189] Next, the control unit 120 transmits the provision information including the route information regarding the movement route set in step S802 and the destination and the parking lot information around the destination acquired in step S803 to the electronic device that is the transmission source of the destination setting information received in step S801 (step S804). For example, the electronic device MC1 that has received the provision information can cause the UI unit 180 to display the display screen 710 (see FIG. 19) based on the provision information.

[0190] Next, the control unit 120 determines whether it has received destination change information via the network NW1 (step S805). For example, when a selection operation of the change button 713 is performed on the display screen 710 (see FIG. 19), the control unit 172 of the electronic device MC1 displays a display screen for changing the destination and accepts setting of a new destination. Then, when a new destination is specified using the display screen and a selection operation of a setting button (corresponding to the setting button 703) is performed, the control unit 172 of the electronic device MC1 transmits destination change information in which information regarding the specified destination (for example, latitude and longitude, name, location identification information) is associated with the device identification information of the electronic device MC1 to the server 100. If the destination change information is received, the process proceeds to step S802. On the other hand, if the destination change information has not been received, the process proceeds to step S806.

[0191] Next, the control unit 120 determines the route information regarding the movement route set in step S802 (step S806). Then, based on the route information, the control unit 120 starts an operation based on the navigation function.

[0192] [Effect Example of the Present Embodiment] As described above, according to the present embodiment, the right (use right) to use the parking space in the parking lot PL1 is granted in the order in which one arrives at the parking lot PL1, and the available parking spaces can be appropriately allocated to each user according to the order in which the use right is granted. For example, in the case of a parking lot adjacent to a restaurant that provides food and drink, during lunchtime, etc., since there are many people who desire to have a meal, it is also assumed that there are no available parking spaces. When an empty parking space appears in such a situation, a person who arrives at the parking lot PL1 early can appropriately secure the empty parking space.

[0193] In addition, in this embodiment, it can be realized by installing devices TM1 and TM2 in parking lot PL1 and providing start-use images GS1, parking space name displays TN1, etc. for each parking space SP1 to SP21. Therefore, there is no need to install cameras, parking location display boards, guiding indicator lights, etc. in parking lot PL1, and it is possible to suppress the installation costs and management costs related to the management of parking lot PL1. Also, in recent years, since there are many users who own portable electronic devices such as smartphones, it is possible to appropriately allocate parking spaces to a plurality of users by using these electronic devices.

[0194] [Example of using in-vehicle device] In the above, an example was shown in which each piece of information regarding the entry, exit, parking in a parking space, and departure from a parking space of vehicle C1 is transmitted to server 100 using the electronic device MC1 (or an electronic device held by a fellow passenger) held by user U1 riding in vehicle C1, and the electronic device MC1 receives each piece of information from server 100 and executes each process. However, each of those pieces of information may be transmitted to server 100 using another electronic device mounted on vehicle C1. For example, it is possible to use an in-vehicle device of vehicle C1. For example, it is possible to use a wireless communication device capable of wireless communication with devices TM1 and TM2, a display device capable of displaying various images, and an imaging device (e.g., a camera) capable of imaging a subject outside vehicle C1. In this case, the entry, exit, parking in a parking space, and departure from a parking space of vehicle C1 are detected using the wireless communication device of the in-vehicle device, and each piece of information regarding them is transmitted to server 100. The start-of-use image GS1 (see FIG. 2) of the parking space is acquired using the imaging device of the in-vehicle device, and each piece of information transmitted from server 100 can be displayed on the display device. For example, assume a case where the start-of-use image GS1 is provided behind the parking space. In this case, it is possible to acquire the start-of-use image GS1 using a camera capable of imaging a subject behind vehicle C1 as an imaging device outside vehicle C1. Note that the wireless communication device, the display device, the imaging device, etc. may be one device or a plurality of devices. For example, it is possible to use a navigation device, an IVI system (next-generation in-vehicle information and communication system: In-Vehicle Infotainment system), etc.

[0195] [Application Examples at Locations Other than Parking Lots] In the above, an example of allocating a parking space in a parking lot for parking a vehicle has been shown, but the present embodiment is also applicable to places other than parking lots. For example, it is applicable to a place where a large number of restaurants are provided and chairs and tables for dining are installed. This place is, for example, a food court. A food court means a place where a large number of restaurants are provided inside or around the food court and chairs and tables for dining are installed. Also, in a food court, since meals are often served in a self-service format, it is possible to purchase desired food at one of the restaurants and sit at an empty seat to have a meal. When applying to a food court, it is possible to grant the right to use a table or a seat instead of the right to use a parking space. Also, install devices TM1, TM2, etc. at the entrance and exit of the food court, and provide each table (or each seat) with a usage start image GS1, a table name display (or a seat name display) (corresponding to the parking space name display TN1), etc. As described above, it is convenient if a plurality of users can be appropriately allocated spaces (or spatial regions (for example, tables, seats)) using a portable electronic device such as a widely popular smartphone (including in-vehicle devices, etc.). In the present embodiment, in a predetermined place (for example, a parking lot, a food court) having a plurality of spaces (or a predetermined region in space), it is possible to appropriately allocate a space (or a region in space) to a user who has come to the predetermined place. In other words, the present embodiment is an example of an information processing apparatus, an information processing system, an information processing method, and a program capable of allocating a space (or a region in space).

[0196] [Example of Executing Each Process in Other Devices and Other Systems] Note that in the above, an example has been shown in which the server 100 (or the information processing system 1) executes the entry / exit detection process, the usage right granting process, the available parking space determination process, the information output process (information transmission process), etc. However, all or part of these processes may be executed by other devices. In this case, the information processing system is configured by each device that executes part of these processes. For example, at least part of each process can be executed using various information processing devices such as a server that can be connected via a predetermined network such as the Internet, various electronic devices, devices installed in the parking lot PL1, its surrounding facilities, or its related facilities, and devices that can be used by users (for example, devices TM1, TM2, electronic devices MC1, MC2, other smartphones, tablet terminals, personal computers).

[0197] Also, part (or all) of the information processing system capable of executing the functions of the server 100 (or the information processing system 1) may be provided by an application that can be provided via a predetermined network such as the Internet. This application is, for example, SaaS (Software as a Service).

[0198] [Configuration Example and Effects of the Present Embodiment] The information processing system 1 according to this embodiment is an information processing system capable of allocating a plurality of parking spaces SP1 to SP21 to a vehicle C1, using devices TM1, TM2 (an example of communication devices) provided in a parking lot PL1 where a plurality of parking spaces SP1 to SP21 are secured, an electronic device MC1 (or in-vehicle device) mounted on the vehicle C1, and a server 100 (an example of an information processing device) that manages the availability of the plurality of parking spaces SP1 to SP21. The server 100 (control unit 120) detects that the vehicle C1 has entered the parking lot PL1 using wireless communication between the devices TM1, TM2 and the electronic device MC1, grants the user U1 boarding the vehicle C1 detected as entering the parking lot PL1 the right to use a parking space, determines whether there is an available parking space in the parking lot PL1 based on the management content of a parking lot management DB200 (an example of a management unit) that manages the availability of the plurality of parking spaces SP1 to SP21, and if it is determined that there is an available parking space, causes the electronic device MC1 to output first guidance information for guiding the user U1 to whom the right to use has been granted to the parking space. On the other hand, if it is determined that there is no available parking space, the electronic device MC1 outputs second guidance information for guiding the user U1 to whom the right to use has been granted to wait until an available parking space is detected because there is no available parking space in the parking lot PL1. In addition, identification information for transmitting start-of-use information using the electronic device MC1 is installed in or around the parking space when starting to use the parking space. Further, when start-of-use information based on the identification information is transmitted from the electronic device MC1 that has transmitted the first guidance information, the server 100 changes the management content of the parking lot management DB200 regarding the parking space related to the identification information during use. Here, during use is an example of information indicating that a vehicle is parked in the parking space, and is an example of information indicating that the parking space is unavailable. The information processing method according to this embodiment is a processing method for executing each of these processes. The program according to this embodiment is a program for causing a computer to execute each of these processes.In other words, the program according to the present embodiment is a program that causes a computer to realize each function executable by the server 100.

[0199] According to this configuration, the right to use the parking space can be granted in the order in which the vehicles arrive at the parking lot PL1, and the available parking spaces can be appropriately allocated to each vehicle according to the order in which the right to use is granted. In addition, the user U1 who uses the parking space can transmit the use start information using the identification information (for example, the use start image GS1, the parking space name display TN1) installed in or around the parking space, so the transmission operation of the use start information is easy. Further, by changing the parking space use information 206 regarding the parking space from "usable" to "in use", the use state of the parking space can be quickly changed. Also, it is not necessary to install cameras, parking location display boards, guiding indicator lights, etc. in the parking lot PL1, and it is possible to suppress the installation costs and management costs related to the management of the parking lot PL1.

[0200] The server 100 (an example of an information processing apparatus) uses the electronic device MC1 mounted on the vehicle C1 entering the parking lot PL1 provided with a plurality of parking spaces SP1 to SP21 to grant the vehicle C1 the right to use the parking space, and based on the management content of the parking lot management DB200 (an example of a management unit) that manages the availability of the plurality of parking spaces SP1 to SP21, it executes control to output from the electronic device MC1 the first guidance information (for example, the display screen 300 (see FIG. 6), the display screen 410 (see FIG. 11)) for guiding the user U1 of the vehicle C1 to whom the right to use is granted to the available parking space. Note that instead of the server 100, an information processing system configured by a plurality of devices capable of executing each process realized by the server 100 may be used.

[0201] According to this configuration, the right to use the parking space can be granted in the order in which vehicles arrive at the parking lot PL1, and the available parking spaces can be appropriately allocated to each vehicle according to the order in which the right to use is granted. In addition, there is no need to install cameras, parking location display boards, guiding indicator lights, etc. in the parking lot PL1, and it is possible to suppress the installation costs and management costs related to the management of the parking lot PL1.

[0202] The control unit 120 detects that the vehicle C1 enters the parking lot PL1 by using wireless communication performed between the device TM1 or TM2 installed in the parking lot PL1 or its vicinity and the electronic device MC1.

[0203] According to this configuration, since it is possible to detect the entry of the vehicle C1 at the timing when the vehicle C1 of the user U1 comes to the parking lot PL1 or near it, it is possible to grant the right to use at an appropriate timing to the user U1.

[0204] The control unit 120 detects that the vehicle C1 enters the parking lot PL1 based on receiving the acquired information (for example, information acquired by reading a QR code) transmitted from the electronic device MC1 that has acquired the identification information (for example, identification information capable of identifying the parking lot PL1, identification information acquirable by reading a QR code) provided in the parking lot PL1 or its vicinity.

[0205] According to this configuration, since it is possible to detect the entry of the vehicle C1 at the timing when the vehicle C1 of the user U1 comes to the parking lot PL1 or near it, it is possible to grant the right to use at an appropriate timing to the user U1.

[0206] When the control unit 120 detects that the vehicle C1 has entered the parking lot PL1, if there is an available parking space in the parking lot PL1, it causes the electronic device MC1 to output first guidance information (for example, the display screen 300 (see FIG. 6)) for guiding the parking space. Further, when the control unit 120 detects that the vehicle C1 has entered the parking lot PL1, if there is no available parking space in the parking lot PL1, it causes the electronic device MC1 to output second guidance information (for example, the display screen 400 (see FIG. 10)) for guiding the user U1 of the vehicle C1 to which the right of use has been granted to that effect. After the output of the second guidance information, when a new available parking space is detected in the parking lot PL1, it executes control to cause the electronic device MC1 to output first guidance information (display screen 410 (see FIG. 11)) for guiding the newly detected parking space.

[0207] According to this configuration, it is possible to appropriately allocate available parking spaces to each vehicle in accordance with the order in which the right of use to use the parking space is granted.

[0208] In the present embodiment, identification information (for example, use start image GS1, parking space name display TN1) for transmitting use start information using the electronic device MC1 when starting to use the parking space is installed in or near the parking space. When the control unit 120 receives use start information based on the identification information from the electronic device MC1 that has transmitted the first guidance information, it changes the parking space use information 206 (an example of management content) in the parking lot management DB200 (an example of a management unit) regarding the parking space related to the identification information from "available" to "in use".

[0209] According to this configuration, a user U1 using a parking space can transmit start - of - use information by using the identification information (for example, start - of - use image GS1, parking space name display TN1) installed in or near the parking space. Therefore, the operation of transmitting the start - of - use information is easy. Also, by changing the parking space use information 206 regarding the parking space from "usable" to "in use", it becomes possible to quickly change the use state of the parking space.

[0210] When the control unit 120 receives the departure information indicating the end of the use of the parking space related to the start - of - use information from the electronic device MC1 that has transmitted the start - of - use information, the control unit 120 changes the parking space use information 206 (an example of management content) in the parking lot management DB200 (an example of a management unit) regarding the parking space from "in use" to "usable".

[0211] According to this configuration, when the departure information is transmitted from the electronic device MC1 of the user U1 who has finished using the parking space, by changing the parking space use information 206 regarding the parking space from "in use" to "usable", it becomes possible to quickly guide the next user who uses the parking space to that parking space.

[0212] After the vehicle C1 parks in the parking lot PL1, the control unit 120 causes the UI unit 180 (an example of a display unit) of the electronic device MC1 to display the image information indicating the position of the parking space where the vehicle C1 has parked (for example, the image information within the surrounding guidance image display area 602 (see FIG. 14)).

[0213] According to this configuration, after the vehicle C1 parks, it becomes possible for the user U1 to visually and easily grasp the position of the parking space where the vehicle C1 has parked. Thereby, when the user U1 returns from outside the parking lot PL1, it becomes possible to quickly move to the parking space where the vehicle C1 is parked.

[0214] After the vehicle C1 parks in the parking lot PL1, the control unit 120 causes the UI unit 180 (an example of a display unit) of the electronic device MC1 to display cost information regarding the cost generated by the parking of the vehicle C1 in the parking lot PL1.

[0215] According to this configuration, after the vehicle C1 parks, it becomes possible for the user U1 to visually and easily grasp the cost generated by the parking of the vehicle C1 in the parking lot PL1. As a result, the user U1 can feel at ease regarding the cost even when outside the parking lot PL1.

[0216] The control unit 120 obtains the congestion level of the parking lot PL1 based on the number of vehicles entering the parking lot PL1, and executes control to cause the output device to output congestion level information regarding the congestion level of the parking lot PL1. For example, in the movement route display area 712 of the display screen 710, it is possible to display information regarding the parking lot (for example, the presence or absence of the parking lot, the presence or absence of a full lot, the number of waiting spaces, the parking rate, etc.) on the destination sign 716 corresponding to the destination parking lot. Also, it is possible to display information regarding the parking lot for the parking lot near the destination.

[0217] According to this configuration, when searching for the parking lot PL1 as the destination, it becomes possible for the user U1 to visually and easily grasp the congestion level of the parking lot PL1. As a result, the user U1 can easily grasp information regarding whether parking is possible when heading to the parking lot PL1 in the future.

[0218] The information processing method according to this embodiment uses wireless communication between devices TM1 and TM2 (an example of a communication device) provided in a parking lot PL1 where a plurality of parking spaces SP1 to SP21 are secured and an electronic device MC1 mounted on a vehicle C1 to detect that the vehicle C1 enters the parking lot PL1, grants the user U1 boarding the vehicle C1 that has been detected as entering the parking lot PL1 the right to use a parking space, determines whether there is an available parking space in the parking lot PL1 based on the management content of a parking lot management DB200 (an example of a management unit) that manages the use status of the plurality of parking spaces SP1 to SP21, and when it is determined that there is an available parking space, outputs first guidance information (for example, a display screen 300 (see FIG. 6), a display screen 410 (see FIG. 11)) for guiding the vehicle C1 with the granted right to use to the parking space from the electronic device MC1. On the other hand, when it is determined that there is no available parking space, second guidance information (for example, a display screen 400 (see FIG. 10)) for guiding the user U1 with the granted right to use to wait until an available parking space is detected because there is no available parking space in the parking lot PL1 is output from the electronic device MC1. Also, the program according to this embodiment is a program that causes a computer to execute each of these processes. In other words, the program according to this embodiment is a program that causes a computer to realize each function that the server 100 can execute.

[0219] According to this configuration, it is possible to grant the right to use a parking space in the order in which vehicles arrive at the parking lot PL1 and appropriately allocate available parking spaces to each vehicle according to the order in which the right to use is granted. Also, it is not necessary to install cameras, parking location display boards, guiding indicator lights, etc. in the parking lot PL1, and it is possible to suppress the installation costs and management costs related to the management of the parking lot PL1.

[0220] Note that each processing procedure shown in this embodiment is an example for realizing this embodiment. Within the range where this embodiment can be realized, the order of some of the processing procedures may be swapped, and some of the processing procedures may be omitted or other processing procedures may be added.

[0221] Note that each process of this embodiment is executed based on a program for causing a computer to execute various processing procedures. This embodiment can also be understood as an embodiment of a program that realizes the function of executing those processes and a recording medium that stores the program. For example, through an update process for adding new functions to an information processing device, an electronic device, etc., the program can be stored in each storage device of each device. Thereby, it becomes possible to cause each of the updated devices to execute each process shown in this embodiment.

[0222] As described above, embodiments of the present invention have been described. However, the above embodiments merely show some application examples of the present invention, and are not intended to limit the technical scope of the present invention to the specific configurations of the above embodiments.

[0223] For example, the following configurations (Configuration Examples 1 to 13) can be adopted. For example, it can be configured as an information processing system, an information processing device, an information processing method, and a program. [Configuration Example 1] An information processing system capable of allocating a plurality of parking spaces to a vehicle, using a communication device provided in a parking lot where a plurality of parking spaces are secured, an electronic device mounted on the vehicle, and an information processing device that manages the use status of the plurality of parking spaces, wherein the information processing device detects that the vehicle has come to the parking lot and entered the parking lot by using wireless communication between the communication device and the electronic device, grants the vehicle the right to use the parking space at the timing when it is detected that the vehicle has entered the parking lot, Based on the management content of the management unit that manages the presence or absence of use of the plurality of parking spaces, the number of parking spaces available in the parking lot, and the number of other vehicles entering the parking lot (the number of entering vehicles), determine whether there is a usable parking space in the parking lot. When it is determined that there is a usable parking space, output first guidance information from the electronic device to guide the user of the vehicle to which the use right is granted to the parking space. On the other hand, when it is determined that there is no usable parking space, it is information for guiding the user of the vehicle to which the use right is granted to wait until a usable parking space is detected because there is no usable parking space in the parking lot. Output second guidance information including the waiting time since the vehicle entered the parking lot specified based on the number of available parking spaces and the number of entering vehicles of the management unit from the electronic device. An information processing system. [Configuration Example 2] In the parking space or in the vicinity thereof, identification information for transmitting use start information using the electronic device when starting to use the parking space is installed. When use start information based on the identification information is transmitted from the electronic device that transmitted the first guidance information, the information processing device changes the management content of the management unit regarding the parking space related to the identification information during use. The information processing system according to Configuration Example 1. [Configuration Example 3] Using an electronic device mounted on a vehicle entering a parking lot provided with a plurality of parking spaces, grant the vehicle the right to use the parking space at the timing when it is detected that the vehicle has entered the parking lot. Based on the management content of the management unit that manages the presence or absence of use of the plurality of parking spaces, the number of parking spaces available in the parking lot, and the number of other vehicles entering the parking lot (the number of entries), it is determined whether there is a usable parking space in the parking lot. If it is determined that there is a usable parking space, the electronic device is caused to output first guidance information for guiding the user of the vehicle to which the use right is granted to the parking space. On the other hand, if it is determined that there is no usable parking space, information for guiding the user of the vehicle to which the use right is granted to wait until a usable parking space is detected because there is no usable parking space in the parking lot is provided, and second guidance information including the waiting time after the vehicle enters the parking lot, which is specified based on the number of available parking spaces and the number of entries of the management unit, is output from the electronic device. It includes a control unit that executes control. Information processing device. [Configuration Example 4] The control unit is the information processing device according to Configuration Example 3, which detects that the vehicle has come to the parking lot and entered the parking lot by using wireless communication performed between the device installed in the parking lot or its vicinity and the electronic device. [Configuration Example 5] The control unit is the information processing device according to Configuration Example 3, which detects that the vehicle has come to the parking lot and entered the parking lot based on receiving the acquired information transmitted from the electronic device that has acquired the identification information provided in the parking lot or its vicinity. [Configuration Example 6] The control unit is the information processing device according to any one of Configuration Examples 3 to 5, which, after the output of the second guidance information, when a new usable parking space is detected in the parking lot, executes control to cause the electronic device to output the first guidance information for guiding the newly detected parking space. [Configuration Example 7] In the parking space or its vicinity, identification information for transmitting use start information using the electronic device when starting the use of the parking space is installed. When use start information based on the identification information is transmitted from the electronic device that transmitted the first guidance information, the control unit changes the management content of the management unit regarding the parking space related to the identification information during use. The information processing apparatus according to Configuration Example 3. [Configuration Example 8] When delivery information indicating the end of use of the parking space related to the use start information is transmitted from the electronic device that transmitted the use start information, the control unit changes the management content of the management unit regarding the parking space to be available for use. The information processing apparatus according to Configuration Example 7. [Configuration Example 9] After the vehicle parks in the parking lot, the control unit causes an image information indicating the position of the parking space where the vehicle has parked to be displayed on the display unit of the electronic device. The information processing apparatus according to any one of Configuration Examples 3 to 5, 7, and 8. [Configuration Example 10] After the vehicle parks in the parking lot, the control unit causes cost information regarding the cost generated by the parking of the vehicle in the parking lot and information indicating that the cost is discounted according to a purchase action using the electronic device at a predetermined facility to be displayed on the display unit of the electronic device. The information processing apparatus according to any one of Configuration Examples 3 to 5, 7, and 8. [Configuration Example 11] Based on the number of vehicles entering the parking lot, the control unit obtains the congestion level of the parking lot and executes control to output congestion level information regarding the congestion level of the parking lot from an output device. The information processing apparatus according to any one of Configuration Examples 3 to 5, 7, and 8. [Configuration Example 12] Detecting that the vehicle has entered the parking lot by using wireless communication between a communication device provided in a parking lot where a plurality of parking spaces are secured and an electronic device mounted on the vehicle, Granting the vehicle the right to use the parking space at the timing when it is detected that the vehicle has entered the parking lot, Based on the management content of a management unit that manages the presence or absence of use of the plurality of parking spaces, the number of vehicles that can be parked in the parking lot, and the number of other vehicles entering the parking lot (the number of entering vehicles), determining whether there is a usable parking space in the parking lot; When it is determined that there is a usable parking space, causing the electronic device to output first guidance information for guiding the user of the vehicle to which the use right has been granted to the parking space. On the other hand, when it is determined that there is no usable parking space, information for guiding the user of the vehicle to which the use right has been granted to wait until a usable parking space is detected because there is no usable parking space in the parking lot, and causing the electronic device to output second guidance information including the waiting number of vehicles after the vehicle enters the parking lot, which is specified based on the number of vehicles that can be parked and the number of entering vehicles of the management unit; An information processing method including the above. [Configuration Example 13] Detecting that the vehicle has come to the parking lot and entered the parking lot by using wireless communication between a communication device provided in a parking lot where a plurality of parking spaces are secured and an electronic device mounted on the vehicle; Granting the vehicle the right to use the parking space at the timing when it is detected that the vehicle has entered the parking lot; Based on the management content of a management unit that manages the presence or absence of use of the plurality of parking spaces, the number of vehicles that can be parked in the parking lot, and the number of other vehicles entering the parking lot (the number of entering vehicles), determining whether there is a usable parking space in the parking lot; When it is determined that there is an available parking space, the electronic device outputs first guidance information for guiding the user of the vehicle to which the use right has been granted to the parking space. On the other hand, when it is determined that there is no available parking space, it is information for guiding the user of the vehicle to which the use right has been granted to wait until an available parking space is detected because there is no available parking space in the parking lot, and the second guidance information including the number of waiting spaces after the vehicle enters the parking lot specified based on the number of available parking spaces and the number of entering vehicles in the management unit is output from the electronic device. A program for causing a computer to execute.

Explanation of Signs

[0224] 1 Information processing system 100 Server 110, 140, 171 Communication unit 120, 150, 172 Control unit 130, 160, 173 Storage unit 174 Image acquisition unit 175 Position information acquisition unit 180 UI unit 181 Reception unit 182 Output unit MC1, MC2 Electronic device TM1, TM2 Device NW1 Network

Claims

1. An information processing system capable of allocating a plurality of parking spaces to a vehicle using a communication device provided in a parking lot where the plurality of parking spaces are secured, an electronic device provided in a vehicle, and an information processing device that manages whether the plurality of parking spaces are in use or not, the information processing system comprising: The information processing device includes: Detecting that the vehicle has arrived at the parking lot and entered the parking lot by using wireless communication between the communication device and the electronic device; granting the vehicle a right to use the parking space when it is detected that the vehicle has entered the parking lot; Determining whether there is a parking space available in the parking lot based on the management contents of a management unit that manages whether the plurality of parking spaces are in use; When it is determined that an available parking space exists, the electronic device outputs a first guidance message to guide the user of the vehicle to which the right of use has been granted to the parking space to the parking space; on the other hand, when it is determined that an available parking space does not exist, the electronic device outputs a second guidance message to inform the user of the vehicle to which the right of use has been granted that there is no available parking space in the parking lot and that the user should wait until an available parking space is detected. Information processing system.

2. An identification information for transmitting use start information using the electronic device when starting to use the parking space is installed in or near the parking space, When use start information based on the identification information is transmitted from the electronic device that transmitted the first guide notification, the information processing device changes the management content of the management unit for the parking space related to the identification information while it is in use. The information processing system according to claim 1 .

3. By utilizing an electronic device mounted on a vehicle entering a parking lot having a plurality of parking spaces, a right to use the parking space is granted to the vehicle at a timing when the vehicle's entry into the parking lot is detected, a control unit that executes control to determine whether an available parking space exists in the parking lot based on management contents of a management unit that manages whether the multiple parking spaces are in use, and, when it is determined that an available parking space exists, causes the electronic device to output a first guidance message to guide the user of the vehicle to which the right of use has been granted to the parking space to the available parking space, and, when it is determined that an available parking space does not exist, causes the electronic device to output a second guidance message to guide the user of the vehicle to which the right of use has been granted that the parking space exists and therefore to wait until an available parking space is detected. Information processing device.

4. The information processing device according to claim 3 , wherein the control unit detects that the vehicle has arrived at the parking lot and entered the parking lot by utilizing wireless communication between the electronic device and an apparatus installed in or near the parking lot.

5. The information processing device according to claim 3, wherein the control unit detects that the vehicle has arrived at and entered the parking lot based on receiving acquired information transmitted from the electronic device that has acquired identification information provided in or near the parking lot.

6. 6. The information processing device according to claim 3, wherein when a new available parking space is detected in the parking lot after the output of the second guidance information, the control unit executes control to cause the electronic device to output the first guidance information for providing guidance to the newly detected parking space.

7. An identification information for transmitting use start information using the electronic device when starting to use the parking space is installed in or near the parking space, 4. The information processing device according to claim 3, wherein, when use start information based on the identification information is transmitted from the electronic device that transmitted the first guide notification, the control unit changes the management content of the management unit for the parking space related to the identification information to "in use."

8. The information processing device according to claim 7, wherein the control unit changes the management content of the management unit regarding the parking space to one that can be used when the electronic device that transmitted the start-of-use information transmits exit information indicating the end of use of the parking space related to the start-of-use information.

9. The information processing device according to any one of claims 3 to 5, 7, and 8, wherein the control unit causes the display unit of the electronic device to display image information indicating the position of the parking space in which the vehicle is parked after the vehicle is parked in the parking lot.

10. An information processing device as described in any one of claims 3 to 5, 7, and 8, wherein the control unit causes a display unit of the electronic device to display, after the vehicle is parked in the parking lot, cost information regarding the costs incurred by parking the vehicle in the parking lot and information that the costs will be discounted depending on purchasing behavior using the electronic device at a specified facility.

11. An information processing device as described in any one of claims 3 to 5, 7, and 8, wherein the control unit determines the congestion level of the parking lot based on the number of vehicles entered in the parking lot, and executes control to output congestion level information regarding the congestion level of the parking lot from an output device.

12. Detecting that a vehicle has entered a parking lot by using wireless communication between a communication device installed in the parking lot and an electronic device installed in the vehicle; granting the vehicle a right to use the parking space when it is detected that the vehicle has entered the parking lot; Determining whether there is a parking space available in the parking lot based on the management contents of a management unit that manages whether the plurality of parking spaces are in use; When it is determined that an available parking space exists, the electronic device outputs a first guidance message to guide the user of the vehicle to which the right of use has been granted to the parking space to the parking space; on the other hand, when it is determined that an available parking space does not exist, the electronic device outputs a second guidance message to inform the user of the vehicle to which the right of use has been granted that there is no available parking space in the parking lot and that the user should wait until an available parking space is detected. An information processing method comprising:

13. Detecting that a vehicle has entered a parking lot by using wireless communication between a communication device installed in the parking lot and an electronic device installed in the vehicle; granting the vehicle a right to use the parking space when it is detected that the vehicle has entered the parking lot; Determining whether there is a parking space available in the parking lot based on the management contents of a management unit that manages whether the plurality of parking spaces are in use; When it is determined that an available parking space exists, the electronic device outputs a first guidance message to guide the user of the vehicle to which the right of use has been granted to the parking space to the parking space; on the other hand, when it is determined that an available parking space does not exist, the electronic device outputs a second guidance message to inform the user of the vehicle to which the right of use has been granted that there is no available parking space in the parking lot and that the user should wait until an available parking space is detected. A program for causing a computer to execute the following.

Images