Processing apparatus and program

Abstract

To provide a processing apparatus which satisfies individual users' desired areas and times (or use frequencies).SOLUTION: A processing apparatus 1 is used for arranging a vehicle 15 in response to a request from a user 14 and comprises: an area setting unit 2 which, to a terminal 11 of each user, sets area information 16 about an area A where the user can freely get on / off the vehicle 15, on the basis of a preliminarily registered setting condition 17; a storage unit 31 in which the area information 16 is stored; and a transmission unit 3 which transmits the area information 16 to a terminal 12 of the vehicle located in a prescribed range 18.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a processing device and a program, and more particularly to a processing device and a program that can be used for shared rides. [Background technology]

[0002] Ride-hailing services, in which ride-hailing app operators manage and operate private drivers, are spreading worldwide. One such service, for example, offers unlimited rides for a fixed price.

[0003] Below, we will list two technologies related to a fixed-price unlimited ride dispatch service: a technology for setting a travel area (Patent Document 1) and a technology for calculating fares (Patent Document 2).

[0004] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a travel plan proposal device that acquires travel schedule information including information on the locations of at least three tourist spots, information on the duration of stay at each of these tourist spots, and information on the travel time period for visiting these tourist spots, and sets a travel area that includes these tourist spots based on the information on each location.

[0005] For example, Patent Document 2 discloses a transportation fare calculation system. The transportation fare calculation system includes a condition determination unit that determines whether the usage status and supply and demand status by users during a predetermined period of time satisfy the conditions for the transportation user to receive usage benefits, including fare reductions and exemptions. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2024-741 [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 7181514 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0007] Generally, in flat-rate unlimited ride dispatch services, the area and time of use are fixed in advance (fixed area). Usually, the fixed area and the area and time (or number of times) that each user actually wants to use the service do not match.

[0008] Therefore, in one aspect, it is an object to provide a processing device etc. that satisfies the area and time (or number of times) that each user desires to use. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] (1) The processing device is a processing device used to arrange a mobile body in response to a user's request, and is characterized by having an area setting unit that sets area information regarding areas where the mobile body can be boarded and disembarked for each user's terminal based on setting conditions including departure information and destination information obtained from the user's terminal, a memory unit that stores the area information, and a transmission unit that transmits the area information to the terminal of the mobile body located within a predetermined range.

[0010] "Departure information / destination information" refers to information expressed as the location information of the departure point and destination. It may also refer to nearby landmarks / signs, such as buildings, trees, rocks, and other terrestrial objects, whether natural or artificial, that are linked to location information. The departure location information may also be information indicating the current location of the user's device.

[0011] "Area information" is, for example, information indicating the range of a specified area. The range may be expressed using multiple pieces of location information, or may be expressed with a specified radius centered on one location. An area may also be defined by identifying three or more locations and connecting those points. Here, location information is information expressed, for example, as latitude and longitude. Location information may also be information expressed by adding altitude. Location information may also be information expressed as other index values ​​that can be converted to latitude, longitude, and / or altitude.

[0012] (2) It is preferable that such a processing device further comprises a plan setting unit for setting either a usage plan for getting on and off from a departure point to a destination, or a usage plan for being able to get on and off freely within the area.

[0013] (3) Preferably, the setting conditions include area type selection information including an area type selected by the user to use the area.

[0014] "Area type selection information" is, for example, information about the area type selected by the user. Area types are conceptual expressions of shape / size, such as standard, distance priority, entertainment facility priority, and sightseeing priority. Area shapes corresponding to each area type are preset. The preset shapes are stored in the memory unit.

[0015] (4) It is also preferable to have a fare calculation unit that calculates the fare for boarding and alighting based on the departure point information, destination information or area information.

[0016] (5) The processing device program is a processing device program used to arrange for a mobile object to a user, and is characterized in that it causes a computer to set area information regarding areas where the user can board and disembark the mobile object for each terminal of the user based on pre-registered setting conditions, store the area information, and transmit the area information to the terminal of the mobile object located within a specified range. [Effects of the Invention]

[0017] User convenience is improved. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0018] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating one embodiment of a system including a processing device. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a functional block diagram illustrating one embodiment of a system including a processing device. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of a processing device. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of a terminal. [Figure 5] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an embodiment of a processing flow of a processing device. [Figure 6] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an embodiment of the overall processing flow of the system. [Figure 7] FIG. 7a is a schematic diagram showing an example of the data structure of a user information database, and FIG. 7b is a schematic diagram showing an example of the data structure of a mobile object information database. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a data structure of a fee condition database. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a display screen of a display unit of a user terminal showing a rate plan. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram summarizing features of fee selection information. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of a display screen of a display unit of a user terminal showing area types. [Figure 12] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing standard area types. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing distance-priority area types. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing area types with priority given to entertainment facilities. [Figure 15] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing tourist-priority area types. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0019] [1. Brief description] (Introduction) A system including a processing device according to this embodiment allows a user (a user) to call a taxi or ride-sharing vehicle (a vehicle) whenever they wish to use it through an app on their smartphone (user terminal). Specifically, in addition to travel between two points, a boarding location (a departure point) and a destination, the user sets an area (unlimited ride area) within which they can travel (get on and off) between the departure point and the destination, and first pays the fare. The unlimited ride area is set for each user terminal and shared with the driver via the vehicle's terminal. Therefore, even though the unlimited ride area is set for each user, it is possible to avoid the procedures and multiple payments required with the driver each time the user gets on and off.

[0020] [2.Each configuration] (System 10) First, the system according to this embodiment will be described using Fig. 1. Fig. 1 shows a system 10. The system 10 includes a processing device 1, a user terminal (hereinafter referred to as a user terminal) 11, and a mobile terminal (hereinafter referred to as a mobile terminal) 12. The processing device 1, the user terminal 11, and the mobile terminal 12 are connected via a communication network 13 so as to be able to communicate with each other.

[0021] (Processing device 1) A detailed description will now be given with reference to Figure 2. Figure 2 shows one embodiment of a functional block diagram of the system 10. The processing device 1 is used for processing to arrange a mobile object 15 in response to a request from a user 14. The processing device 1 mainly comprises an area setting unit 2, a storage unit 31, and a transmission unit 3. The processing device 1 also further comprises a plan setting unit 4, a fee calculation unit 5, a settlement unit 6, and a communication unit 7.

[0022] (Area setting section 2) The area setting unit 2 sets area information 16 relating to an area A (see FIG. 1) where one or more moving bodies 15 can be freely boarded and disembarked for each user terminal 11 based on pre-registered setting conditions 17. The setting conditions 17 will be described later.

[0023] (Area information 16) The area information 16 is stored in the storage unit 31. The area information 16 may include the range of the area A plus time information.

[0024] The time information is information indicating the time associated with the range. The time information may be a time in Japan, a time overseas, or the time elapsed relative to a reference time. Furthermore, the time information may be information expressed as, for example, a time or another index value that can be converted into the time elapsed relative to a reference time.

[0025] (Transmitter 3) The transmitter 3 transmits area information 16 to mobile terminals 12 located within a predetermined range 18 (see FIG. 1).

[0026] (Predetermined range 18) The predetermined range 18 is, for example, a range within which a search is made for a vehicle 15 that should pick up the user 14. Here, the predetermined range 18 may be inside or outside area A. The predetermined range 18 may be, for example, the same range as area A. Furthermore, for example, one or more predetermined ranges may be set separately within area A in order to arrange for a vehicle 15 to be delivered to an area with narrow alleys, a high population density, or a popular tourist destination. Furthermore, for example, a predetermined range may be set outside area A so that a search can be made for a vehicle 15 that does not exist within area A or that is closer to the user 14 than a vehicle 15 within area A.

[0027] (Plan Setting Section 4) The plan setting unit 4 determines whether to set an unlimited ride plan. In this embodiment, the plan setting unit 4 sets, for example, either a conventional use plan for simply traveling between two points from a departure point to a destination, or an unlimited ride use plan that allows passengers to get on and off as they like within area A. The plan setting unit 4 acquires use plan selection information 20 indicating the use plan from the user terminal 11. The use plan selection information 20 is sent to the processing device 1 in response to a selection operation on the user terminal 11 by the user 14.

[0028] (Fee calculation section 5) The fare calculation unit 5 calculates the fare for the user 14 to get on and off based on the area information 16 and / or the departure point information and destination information 19. In this embodiment, the fare is set further based on the fare selection information 22. In this embodiment, for example, the calculated fee is presented to the user 14 as one or more fee grades (fee ranges) (see FIG. 9). A fee range is information that expresses fees in multiple ranges. For example, it may be 1,000 yen, 3,000 yen, 5,000 yen, or an amount input by the user (freely settable).

[0029] The fee selection information 22 is information indicating the fee range selected by the user 14. It may be electronic information such as text, images, videos, and audio indicating the content of the fee range, or may be information that combines multiple pieces of text, images, videos, and audio. The processing device 1 acquires the fee selection information 22 via the user terminal 11 in response to a selection operation by the user 14.

[0030] (Contact Department 7) The communication unit 7 mediates contact information 23, 23 between the user 14 and a driver (not shown) who has the mobile terminal 12.

[0031] The contact information 23 is information related to the message. It may be electronic information such as text, images, videos, or audio indicating the content of the message, or it may be information that combines multiple pieces of text, images, videos, and audio. For example, the message may be used by the user 14 to send the driver information about the situation around the departure point as text, photos, or videos to ensure a smooth meeting, or to send the user information such as a message that the driver will be delayed due to road conditions and the waiting location as text, photos, or videos. The contact information 23 may be stored in the storage unit 31.

[0032] (Payment Department 6) The settlement unit 6 settles the fee. The fee is settled based on the settlement information 24 acquired from the user terminal 11. The settlement information 24 may be sent to a separate settlement server for settlement.

[0033] (Payment Information 24) The payment information 24 is information related to payment. It may be information that digitizes text, images, videos, audio, etc. that indicates the details of the payment, or may be information that combines multiple pieces of text, images, videos, audio, etc. Payment rewards may be cash, electronic money, virtual currency, tokens (cryptocurrency), or points that can be used to purchase services / products. It may also be the service itself, as long as it is a form of compensation. The reward may be expressed, for example, as cash, electronic money, virtual currency, tokens, points, or another index that can be converted into a service.

[0034] (Position detection unit) The user terminal 11 and the mobile terminal 12 each include a position detection unit (not shown). The position detection unit acquires position information using, for example, a GPS (Global Positioning System) sensor. Note that positioning methods other than the GPS sensor, such as Wi-Fi positioning and beacon positioning, may also be used.

[0035] (Display section 25) The user terminal 11 and the mobile terminal 12 each include a display unit 25. As the display unit 25, for example, a device that displays a screen such as a liquid crystal display (LCD), a plasma display panel (PDP), or an organic electroluminescence (EL) display may be used. Specifically, the display unit 25 may be a communication device with a display function, such as an in-vehicle device or a smartphone.

[0036] (User terminal 11, user 14) The user terminal 11 includes a position detection unit (not shown) and a display unit 25. The user terminal 11 is a terminal device used by the user 14, and is, for example, a portable terminal such as a laptop computer, tablet terminal, smartphone, or mobile phone. The user terminal 11 may be owned by the user 14, or may be loaned to the user 14. The user 14 uses a taxi or a ride-sharing car (mobile object).

[0037] (Mobile terminal 12) The mobile terminal 12 has almost the same configuration as the user terminal 11 described above, so the same components are given the same reference numerals and detailed description will be omitted.

[0038] The mobile terminal 12 includes a position detection unit and a display unit 25. In this embodiment, the mobile terminal 12 is, for example, a smartphone. However, it may also be a mobile phone, a tablet terminal, a personal computer, or the like. It may also be a drive recorder or a navigation device. Furthermore, the mobile terminal 12 may operate in cooperation with a drive recorder or a navigation device. It may also be integrated with the mobile object 15.

[0039] (Vehicle 15, Driver) A mobile terminal 12 is mounted on a mobile object 15. The mobile object 15 may be any vehicle that can travel on public roads, such as a car, motorcycle, bicycle, or electric kick scooter. A driver drives the mobile object 12. In the case of autonomous driving, a driver is not required.

[0040] (Communication Network 13) The communication network 13 is, for example, the Internet communication network, and is also constructed by a mobile phone network, a wireless communication path, Ethernet (registered trademark), and the like.

[0041] [3. Hardware configuration] Next, the hardware configurations of the processing device 1 and the terminals 11 and 12 (user terminal 11, mobile terminal 12) will be described with reference to Figures 3 and 4. In this embodiment, the hardware configurations of the terminals 11 and 12 are almost the same as that of the processing device 1, so they are denoted by the same reference numerals and detailed description will be omitted.

[0042] (Hardware configuration of processing device 1) As shown in FIG. 3, the processing device 1 of this embodiment uses, for example, a computer. The processing device 1 includes a CPU (or GPU) 30. The CPU 30 is connected via a bus line 35 to, for example, a memory (hereinafter referred to as a storage unit) 31, a connection port 33 for connecting / reading a storage device 32, etc., and a communication circuit 34 for communicating with the outside via a network. The storage unit 31 stores a program 36 for processing the system 10. It may also store a browser program 37 and an OS 38 (operating system). The program 36 is installed in the processing device 1 by the storage device 32.

[0043] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the storage unit 31 stores the setting conditions 17, area types, a user information DB 44, a mobile unit information DB 45, and a fee conditions DB 46.

[0044] (Hardware configuration of terminals 11 and 12) In this embodiment, the terminals 11 and 12 are, for example, computers. As shown in Fig. 4, a user terminal program 39 (mobile terminal program 39a) for processing the system 10 is stored in the storage unit 31 of the terminals 11 and 12. A browser program 37 and an OS 38 (operating system) may also be stored. The programs 39 and 39a are installed in the terminals 11 and 12 by the storage device 32.

[0045] In this embodiment, the program 36 and the terminal programs 39 and 39a may operate in cooperation with each other by utilizing the functions of the OS 38 and the browser program 37. Note that the program 36 and the terminal programs 39 and 39a may also operate independently without utilizing the browser program 37 and the OS 38, respectively.

[0046] In the hardware configuration of the above-mentioned program 36 and terminal programs 39, 39a, the functions shown in the function book diagram of Figure 2 are realized, for example, using CPU 30, program 36, and terminal programs 39, 39a, but some or all of them may be sequence-controlled using a logic circuit such as a microcomputer or a PLC (programmable logic controller).

[0047] [4. Program] (Flowchart showing the processing of the processing device 1 and the system 10) The processing flow of the processing device 1 and the system 10 will be described below with reference to Figures 5 and 6. Figure 5 is a flowchart showing one embodiment of the processing of the program 36 used in the processing device 1. Figure 6 is a flowchart showing one embodiment of the processing of the programs 36, 39, and 39a used respectively in the processing device 1, the user terminal 11, and the mobile terminal 12 in the system 10. Note that the flowchart in Figure 5 shows a dispatch method 28.

[0048] (S0: User registration) In this embodiment, when using the system 10, user registration is performed for the user terminal 11 and the mobile terminal 12. Note that the system 10 can be used without user registration. The following describes user registration for the user terminal 11. User registration for the mobile terminal 12 is almost the same as user registration for the user terminal 11, so a detailed description will be omitted.

[0049] (T1) An unregistered user who wishes to use the system 10 performs user registration via the processing device 1 or an external pre-registered login server (hereinafter referred to as the processing device, etc.). The user requests the processing device, etc. to send a registration form for user registration via the user terminal 11 or another terminal owned by the user (hereinafter referred to as the communication terminal, etc.). For example, in this embodiment, the function of a web browser is used.

[0050] (T2) The processing device or the like transmits a registration form. In the registration form, a user name, a password, a handle name to be used in the system 10, etc., to be used for logging in to the system 10 are entered (not shown). Furthermore, information to be stored in a user information database (user information DB) 44, which will be described later, is entered.

[0051] (T3) An unregistered user inputs information for registration. The communication terminal or the like transmits the input information to the processing device or the like.

[0052] (T4) The processing device or the like sets the ID 44a for identifying the user terminal 11 and registers the necessary information in the mobile unit information DB 44.

[0053] (User information DB44) 7a is a schematic diagram showing an example of the data structure of the user information DB 44. The user information DB 44 shown in the figure mainly includes the ID 44a of the mobile object 12, location information 44b, and area information 16. Note that the user information DB 44 may also store other information such as usage history (date and time of use, departure and destination information), whether the system is currently in use, the mobile object ID used (described later), and even addresses, telephone numbers, and the number of people in a group.

[0054] (Mobile Information Database 45) 7b is a schematic diagram showing an example of the data structure of the mobile object information database (mobile object information DB) 45. The mobile object information DB 45 shown in the figure includes, for example, an ID 45a, location information 45b, and a vehicle number 45c. Note that the mobile object information DB 45 may also store other information such as the vehicle type, color, number of occupants, a photograph of the driver's face, and even an address and telephone number.

[0055] (S1: Setting the departure point and destination) 5 and 6, the CPU 30 (see FIG. 3) of the processing device 1 sets the departure point and destination. The departure point and destination are based on departure point information and destination information 19 transmitted from the user terminal 11 by operation of the user 14.

[0056] (S1a: Number detection) The processing device 1 investigates the presence of mobile objects 15 near the departure point and / or destination. The mobile terminal 15 acquires location information 45b and transmits it to the processing device 1 at predetermined time intervals. The processing device 1 stores the location information 45b in the mobile object DB 45. The processing device 1 sends a notification to mobile objects 15 located within a predetermined range of the departure point and / or destination to check the communication status, etc. The processing device 1 receives a response (active) from the mobile terminal 15 indicating that the communication status is good, etc., and detects the number of active mobile objects 15.

[0057] The processing device 1 transmits a notification to the user terminal 11 indicating whether the mobile object 15 can be arranged or not. When the processing device 1 detects a predetermined number of active mobile objects 15, it notifies the user terminal 11 that the mobile object 15 can be arranged and proceeds to the next step. For example, the processing device 1 may notify the user terminal 11 that the mobile object 15 can be arranged if at least one mobile object 15 can be detected.

[0058] On the other hand, if the predetermined number of active moving objects 15 cannot be detected, a message to that effect is transmitted to the user terminal 11, and the arrangement is terminated. If detection is not possible, the number detection may be continued until detection is possible, until a predetermined number of attempts is reached, or until an instruction to terminate is received from the user 14.

[0059] (S2: Usage plan settings) The processing device 1 sets a usage plan based on usage plan selection information 20 (see FIG. 2) transmitted from the user terminal 11 in response to an operation by the user 14. If the usage plan selection information 20 selected by the user 14 is an unlimited ride plan, the process proceeds to the next step. On the other hand, if the usage plan is a simple point-to-point trip from the departure point to the destination, the process proceeds to step S6, where arrangements for the mobile unit 15 are started (see the two-dot chain line). Alternatively, the plan may be limited to the unlimited ride plan, in which case step S2 of setting the usage plan is not necessary.

[0060] (S3: Fee calculation) The processing device 1 calculates the fee. In this embodiment, the fee is calculated based on pre-registered fee conditions 21. In this embodiment, first, three fee plans with different fee ranges are calculated, and the user 14 is allowed to select which fee plan to use, and then the size of area A is set according to the fee plan.

[0061] (Fee Conditions Database 46) FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the data structure of a database (fee condition DB) that compiles the fee conditions 21. The fee conditions 21 are set for each region, including cities, towns, and villages. The fee condition DB 46 includes a region name 46a, a price 46b, and an area 46c of area A. In the figure, for prices of 1,500 yen, 3,000 yen, and 5,000 yen, the area of ​​area A is 5 km2. 2 , 8km 2 , 12km 2 is set as:

[0062] The amount increases or decreases based on the distance from the departure point to the destination. For example, map data is used to set a route from the departure point of the mobile unit 15 to the destination, and the amount increases or decreases based on the distance of the route. Note that a known soft meter technology may be used to calculate the fare.

[0063] Fig. 9 is a schematic diagram of the display screen of the display unit 25 of the user terminal 11 displaying the price plan selection information 22. The display screen shown in Fig. 9 shows four price ranges consisting of price plans ad that the user 14 can select.

[0064] In the figure, there are three pricing plans: price plan a of 1,000 yen, price plan b of 3,000 yen, and price plan c of 5,000 yen. The price of price plan d can be set by the user 14. In this embodiment, there are three price ranges, but there may be four or more price ranges or just two price ranges. It is also possible to have only one price range. In this case, the user 14 does not need to select a price range.

[0065] Next, Figure 10 shows a schematic diagram summarizing the features of the rate plans. The figure shows rate plans 22a, prices 22b, price types 22c, and the impact of area setting 22d. Rate plans a, b, and c increase in price in that order, and the range of area A expands. The rate plan affects the size of area A.

[0066] The processing device 1 acquires one of the price plans ad (price plan selection information 22) in response to a selection operation by the user.

[0067] (Determining the area of ​​Area A) The area of ​​area A varies depending on the density of mobile objects 15 within area A and the population density, and also expands / shrinks depending on the fee set by user 14. In this embodiment, for example, area A is set to expand when the density of mobile objects 15 is high in the arranged area, and to shrink as the population (user) density increases. The size of area A may be changed depending on the usage time of user 14.

[0068] Below is an example of a formula that shows the relationship between the area of ​​area A and the amount. (Formula) Area A range = X x Y x Z X: Population base density / Population density near the starting point Y: Vehicle density near boarding point / vehicle-based density Z: Amount Here, vehicle density is the number of moving vehicles near the departure point divided by the area near the departure point. The population-based density is the average density of the population across Japan, which is 0.338 (people / m 2 ) Furthermore, the vehicle density is 0.163 (vehicles / m) which is the average density of passenger cars in Japan. 2 )

[0069] (S4: Area type setting) 5 and 6, the processing device 1 sets the area type. The area type relates to the shape of the area A. 11 is a schematic diagram of the display screen of the display unit 25 of the user terminal 11. The display screen shown in the figure displays four area types, consisting of types A and D, that the user 14 can select. The area type selected by the user 14 from these four area types corresponds to area type selection information 27. The processing device 1 acquires one area type (area type selection information 27) from the area types A and D through the user's selection operation.

[0070] In this embodiment, there are four area types: standard indicated by A, distance-priority indicated by B, entertainment facility-priority indicated by C, and sightseeing-priority indicated by D. The shape of the area is expanded or contracted based on the rate plan selected by the user (rate plan selection information 22). In this embodiment, the 3000 yen rate plan (see FIG. 9) is selected.

[0071] (A: Standard area type) FIG. 12 shows a schematic representation of a standard area type. The shape of the area of ​​standard area type 29a is shown on map 9 in the figure. Standard area type 29a is a rectangle. The rectangle has a predetermined width d, which is the length of the straight line connecting departure point 40 and destination 41. The width becomes wider or narrower depending on the selected fare plan. The raindrop-shaped area indicated by reference numeral 42 is a tourist spot.

[0072] (B: Area type that prioritizes distance) Fig. 13 shows a schematic representation of the distance-priority area type. The shape of an area of ​​distance-priority area type 29b is shown on map 9 in the figure. Distance-priority area type 29b is set to extend as far as possible from the departure point 40 and destination 41. In this embodiment, the area is a circle drawn from approximately the midpoint of the line connecting the departure point 40 and destination 41 with a radius approximately half the length of said line.

[0073] (C: Area type prioritizing entertainment facilities) FIG. 14 shows a schematic representation of an area type that prioritizes entertainment facilities. The shape of an area of ​​the entertainment facility priority area type 29c is shown on the map 9 in the figure. The entertainment facility priority area type 29c is set to enlarge the area range near tourist spots (entertainment facilities) 42 located between or near the departure point 40 and destination 41. For example, a circle / rectangle of a predetermined radius may be formed with the entertainment facility 42 at the center. In the figure, a circle (see dashed two-dot line) 9a of a predetermined radius is drawn around two entertainment facilities indicated by the reference numeral 42. The tourist spots 42 are stopover points designated by the user 14. In addition, two circles 9a of the same radius are drawn around the departure point 40 and the destination point 41. In this embodiment, these four circles 9a are connected by tangent lines to form an entertainment facility-prioritized area type 29c.

[0074] In this embodiment, the user 14 specifies an entertainment facility, but the processing device 1 may select one or more entertainment facilities based on predetermined selection criteria. The selection criteria may be places, facilities, or destinations that are frequently specified by other users, or places or facilities that are currently popular. The size of the circle / rectangle may also vary. For example, the circle / rectangle may be larger in order of popularity. Note that there must be one or more entertainment facilities 42. If there are no or few entertainment facilities 42, the range may be larger for the departure point 40 and destination 41.

[0075] (D: Area type prioritized for tourism) FIG. 15 shows a schematic representation of the tourist-priority area type. The shape of an area of ​​the tourist-priority area type 29d is shown on the map 9 in the figure. The tourist-priority area type 29d has an area range set to include as many tourist areas 43 as possible between or near the departure point 40 and destination 41. In this embodiment, the tourist area 43 is located near the destination 41.

[0076] (S5: Area setting) 5 and 6, the processing device 1 determines the area of ​​area A based on the fee selection information 22, and determines the shape based on the area type selection information 27. The processing device 1 notifies the user terminal 11 of the set area information 16.

[0077] (S6a: Provisional Arrangement) Next, the processing device 1 provisionally arranges for the moving object 15. The provisional arrangement process will be described below. (1) When the processing device 1 receives consent for the set area A from the user terminal 11, the processing device 1 stores the area information 16 in the user information DB 44. (2) The processing device 1 notifies the mobile object 15 near the departure point 40 of the provisional order. The notification includes the user's ID 44a and the corresponding area information 16. (3) Of the mobile terminals 12 that have received the notification, those that have difficulty accepting the request notify the processing device 1 to that effect. (4) The processing device 1 selects an available mobile terminal 12 based on predetermined selection conditions and notifies the mobile terminal 12 of the provisional order. In this embodiment, the selection conditions are set to select the mobile terminal 15 closest to the user terminal 11. (5) Upon receiving the notification of the provisional order, the mobile terminal 12 automatically or by the driver's operation notifies the processing device 1 of acceptance of the provisional order. (6) The processing device 1 notifies the user terminal 11 that the tentative order reservation has been completed. (7) The user terminal 11 automatically or by user operation notifies the processing device 1 of the execution of the arrangement. (Other) The mobile unit 15 that has received the provisional order notification may respond with acceptance to the processing device 1 by an operation of the driver without waiting for the selection by the processing device 1. The processing device 1 may select the mobile unit 15 that responds with acceptance first and send a provisional order notification to that mobile unit 15.

[0078] (settlement) The processing device 1 performs payment. The fee is paid based on payment information 24 acquired from the user terminal 11. Alternatively, the payment information 24 may be sent to a separate payment server for payment. The processing device 1 / payment server notifies the user terminal 11 that payment has been completed.

[0079] (S6: Arrangements begin) The processing device 1 formally arranges for the provisionally arranged mobile object 15. The processing device 1 transmits the location information 44b / departure point 40 of the user terminal 11 to the formally arranged mobile object 15. Furthermore, the processing device 1 transmits the location information 45b of the formally arranged mobile object 15 to the user terminal.

[0080] (Guidance begins) The moving body 15 carries the user 14 and starts guiding the user.

[0081] (Get off at destination / stop point) The mobile unit 15 drops off the user 14 at the destination 41 / stop point.

[0082] (Get on vehicle 15 again in Area A) (1) Returning to S1, the processing device 1 sets the departure point and destination again. The departure point and destination are based on the departure point information and destination information 19 transmitted from the user terminal 11 by the operation of the user 14. (2) Since the unlimited ride plan has already been set and the fare has already been paid, the processing device 1 skips steps S2-S5 and proceeds to provisional arrangement. (3) The payment process is omitted, and the processing device 1 starts arranging for the moving object 15 in S6.

[0083] 6. Modifications and Other Embodiments Next, we will explain modifications and other embodiments of the system 10. The modifications and other embodiments explained below are almost the same as the system 10 described above, so the same parts are given the same reference numerals and their explanations will be omitted.

[0084] (Variation) The user 14 can notify the processing device 1 of the mobile object 15 for which they wish to arrange transportation via the user terminal 11. The user 14 notifies the processing device 1 of their preferences, such as the type of vehicle and the number of occupants. The user 14 notifies the processing device 1 of their preferences before making a provisional arrangement. When making a provisional arrangement, the processing device 1 notifies the processing device 1 of a provisional arrangement to a mobile object 15 near the departure point 40 that matches the user 14's preferences.

[0085] (Second embodiment) Next, a second embodiment of the system 10 will be described. Returning to Fig. 5, in the system 10a according to the second embodiment, after setting the usage plan in S2, the system proceeds to setting the area type in S4, and then via area setting in S5, the fee in S3 is calculated (see the dashed line). Unlike the system 10 described above, the range of area A is set first, and the fee according to that range is calculated. In the system 10a, no fee plan is selected in the fee calculation in S3. On the other hand, the selected area type may be expanded or reduced in the area type setting in S4.

[0086] [7. Other] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and may be a system in which the embodiments, modifications, and configurations listed below are appropriately combined. (1) The information stored in the storage unit 31 (see FIG. 3) may be provided in an external server connected via a network. (2) Some of the functions of the processing device 1 may be distributed to other external servers.

[0087] [8. Summary] (1) The processing device 1 is used to arrange a mobile object 15 in response to a request from a user 14, and is characterized by having an area setting unit 2 that sets area information 16 regarding an area A where the mobile object 15 can be boarded and disembarked for each user terminal 11 based on setting conditions 17 including departure point information and destination information 19 obtained from the user terminal 11, a memory unit 31 that stores the area information 16, and a transmission unit 3 that transmits the area information 16 to the terminal 12 of the mobile object located within a predetermined range 18. Area A where passengers can get on and off can be set from a departure point 40 and a destination 41, and area A where passengers can ride as much as they like can be easily set. An unlimited ride area A is set for each user terminal 11 and shared with the driver via the mobile terminal 12. This eliminates the need for individual users 14 to go through procedures with the driver each time they get on or off the bus, improving user convenience. This makes it easy to make frequent short-distance trips, and increases the degree of freedom for users.

[0088] (2) It is also highly convenient for the user because it is further provided with a plan setting unit 4 that allows the user 14 to select either a usage plan that gets on and off from the departure point to the destination or a usage plan that allows unlimited boarding and disembarking within area A based on departure point information and destination information 19. The unlimited boarding area can be set in the same way as for point-to-point travel, making it easy to operate when using the system.

[0089] (3) The setting conditions 17 include type information 27 including the type of use of area A selected by the user 14, so that the range of area A that matches the purpose of the user 14 can be selected.

[0090] (4) The system is provided with a fare calculation unit 5 that calculates the fare for boarding and disembarking based on the area information 16 or the departure point information and destination information 19 in addition to the predetermined fare conditions 21, so that the fare is set before arriving at the destination, making the fare clear.

[0091] (5) A method 28 for arranging a mobile body 15 for a user 14, characterized in that area information 16 regarding an area A where the mobile body 15 can be boarded and disembarked is set for each user terminal 11 based on pre-registered setting conditions 17, and the area information 16 is transmitted to the mobile body terminal 12 located within a predetermined range 18. An unlimited ride area A is set for each user terminal 11 and shared with the driver via the mobile terminal 12. This eliminates the need for individual users 14 to go through procedures with the driver each time they get on or off the bus, improving user convenience. This makes it easy to make frequent short-distance trips, and increases the degree of freedom for users. [Explanation of symbols]

[0092] 1 Processing equipment 2 Area setting section 3. Transmitter 4. Plan Setting Department 5. Fee Calculation Department 6. Payment Department 7. Liaison Department 9. Map 10 Systems 11 User terminal 12 Mobile terminals 13. Communication Network 14 users 15 Mobile 16 Area Information 17 Setting conditions 18 Prescribed Range 19 Departure and destination information 20. Usage plan selection information 21 Pricing Terms 22 Price Selection Information 23 Contact Information 25 Display section 27 Area type selection information 28 How to arrange 29a Standard Area Type 29b Distance-priority area type 29c Area type prioritizing entertainment facilities 29d Tourism-oriented area type 30 CPU 31 Memory (storage section) 32 Recording Devices 33 connection ports 34 Communication Circuit 35 Bus Line 36 Programs 37 Browser Program 38 OS 39 Programs 39a Program 40 Departure Point 41 Destination 42 Entertainment facilities 43 Tourist Area 44 User Information Database 45 Mobile Information Database 46 Fee Conditions Database

Claims

1. A processing device used to arrange a moving object in response to a user request, an area setting unit that sets area information relating to an area where the user can get on and off the mobile unit for each user terminal based on setting conditions including departure point information and destination information acquired from the user terminal; a storage unit that stores the area information; a transmitting unit that transmits the area information to a terminal of the mobile body located within a predetermined range.

2. 2. The processing device according to claim 1, further comprising a plan setting unit that sets either one of a usage plan for getting on and off from a departure point to a destination and a usage plan for being able to get on and off freely within the area.

3. 2. The processing device according to claim 1, wherein the setting conditions include area type selection information including an area type selected by the user to use the area.

4. The processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising a fare calculation unit that calculates a fare for boarding and alighting based on the departure point information, destination information or the area information.

5. A program for a processing device used to arrange a moving object in response to a user request, On the computer, based on setting conditions including departure point information and destination information acquired from the user's terminal, area information relating to an area in which the user can get on and off the mobile body is set for each user's terminal; storing the area information; A processing device program that causes a terminal of the mobile body located within a predetermined range to transmit the area information.

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