Parking management system

Abstract

To implement parking control that is less likely to cause a problem.SOLUTION: A parking management system comprises: an information display device 600 which is provided in the vicinity of a passenger compartment and displays predetermined code information; a portable terminal 101; and a settlement device 700. The portable terminal 101 comprises: a code information reading unit 140 that reads code information displayed by the information display device 600; and a communication unit 130 that transmits user identification information for identifying a user of the portable terminal 101, and the code information read by the code information reading unit 140, to the settlement device 700. The settlement device 700 performs payment processing based on the user identification information and code information transmitted from the communication unit 130.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 17

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a parking management system. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, services that allow users to reserve (reserve) parking spaces in advance have become popular in parking lots such as pay parking lots. Only the vehicle of the user who made the reservation can park in the reserved parking space. For example, a system has been devised that, when a reservation for a parking space is accepted, activates a locking plate installed in the parking space to prevent vehicles other than the reserved vehicle from parking in the parking space (see, for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2006-172114 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The locking plate described above is reset to a locked state while the vehicle is parked to prevent it from being exited without paying the parking fee. Generally, a locking plate changes to an upright position when a sensor detects the entry of a vehicle. In this way, the edge of the locking plate abuts the underside of the vehicle, preventing it from exiting. This raises the risk of the locking plate damaging a parked vehicle. For example, forcing the vehicle to leave the parking lot while the locking plate is upright, or even simply moving the vehicle back and forth, can damage the vehicle. Furthermore, the damage can cause rust in areas where the paint has peeled off. Furthermore, depending on how the vehicle is parked (e.g., entering the parking lot forcefully or at an angle), the vehicle may come into contact with the locking plate or its surroundings, damaging the vehicle. Furthermore, if a power outage or locking plate malfunctions after parking, the vehicle may be unable to leave the parking lot. Furthermore, installing a locking plate requires not only initial investment costs but also significant costs for repairs, maintenance, and dealing with the aforementioned problems. As described above, parking control systems using lock plates have the problem of being prone to problems.

[0005] An object of the present invention is to provide a parking management system that can perform parking control that is less likely to cause trouble and can increase the profits of parking lot businesses. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The parking management system of the present invention comprises: A mobile terminal, a management server, and a control device are included, The mobile terminal a communication unit that transmits a reservation request signal to the management server to request a reservation of a vehicle compartment based on an operation received from an external device, transmits a vehicle compartment identification signal to the management server to identify the vehicle compartment, and transmits a warehousing request signal to the management server to request entry into the vehicle compartment; The management server a search unit that, upon receiving the reservation request signal transmitted from the communication unit, searches for an available vehicle compartment based on the vehicle compartment usage information stored in a database; an information transmission unit that transmits vehicle compartment information of the vacant vehicle compartment searched by the search unit to the mobile terminal; a control signal transmitting unit that transmits a first signal to the control device installed in the vehicle compartment identified based on the vehicle compartment identification signal transmitted from the communication unit, and that transmits a second signal to the control device that is the destination of the first signal when the entry request signal is transmitted from the communication unit of the mobile terminal that transmitted the reservation request signal; The control device a prevention member that prevents entry into the vehicle compartment; The device has a member control unit that, upon receiving the first signal from the control signal transmission unit, changes the prevention member to a first form that prevents entry into the vehicle compartment, and, upon receiving the second signal from the control signal transmission unit, changes the prevention member to a second form that allows entry into the vehicle compartment.

[0007] The system further includes an information display device that is provided near the vehicle interior and displays predetermined code information, a mobile terminal, and a payment device, The mobile terminal a code information reading unit that reads the code information displayed by the information display device; a communication unit that transmits user identification information that identifies a user of the mobile terminal and the code information read by the code information reading unit to the payment device, The settlement device settles the fee based on the user identification information and the code information transmitted from the communication unit. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] In the present invention, parking control can be performed in a manner that is less likely to cause problems. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram showing a first embodiment of a parking management system of the present invention. [Figure 2] 2 is a diagram showing an example of components included in the mobile terminal shown in FIG. 1. FIG. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of components included in the management server illustrated in FIG. 1. [Figure 4] 4 is a diagram showing an example of information indicating the usage status of parking spaces stored in the database shown in FIG. 3. FIG. [Figure 5] 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of components included in the control device illustrated in FIG. 1. FIG. [Figure 6] 6A and 6B are diagrams showing examples of external appearances of possible states of the prevention member shown in FIG. 5. [Figure 7] 1. FIG. 4 is a sequence diagram for explaining an example of processing for reserving a parking space in the parking management system shown in FIG. [Figure 8] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of an input screen displayed by the display unit shown in FIG. 2 in step S3. [Figure 9] 3 is a diagram showing an example of vehicle interior information displayed by the display unit shown in FIG. 2. FIG. [Figure 10] 1. FIG. 4 is a sequence diagram for explaining an example of processing when entering a parking space in the parking management system shown in FIG. [Figure 11] 10 is a diagram showing an example of a storage screen displayed by the display unit shown in FIG. 2 in step S23. FIG. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a reservation fee information screen displayed on the display unit shown in FIG. 2 in step S28. [Figure 13] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a second embodiment of the parking management system of the present invention. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a third embodiment of the parking management system of the present invention. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating an example of components included in the mobile terminal illustrated in FIG. 14. [Figure 16] FIG. 15 is a sequence diagram for explaining an example of processing for payment of fees in the parking management system shown in FIG. [Figure 17] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a fourth embodiment of the parking management system of the present invention. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a sequence diagram for explaining an example of a determination method in the parking management system shown in FIG. [Figure 19] FIG. 13 is a sequence diagram for explaining an example of processing when entering a parking space in the fifth embodiment of the parking management system of the present invention. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is a sequence diagram illustrating an example of processing when a vehicle leaves a parking space in the sixth embodiment of the parking management system of the present invention. [Figure 21] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a delivery screen displayed on the display unit in step S63. [Figure 22] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a screen of parking fee information displayed on the display unit in step S68. [Figure 23] FIG. 13 is a sequence diagram for explaining another example of the processing when leaving the parking space in the sixth embodiment of the parking management system of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. (First embodiment)

[0011] Fig. 1 is a diagram showing a first embodiment of a parking management system of the present invention. As shown in Fig. 1, this embodiment includes a mobile terminal 100, a management server 200, and a control device 300. These are connected to each other via a communication network 400 so that they can communicate with each other.

[0012] The mobile terminal 100 is a mobile communication device such as a smartphone carried by a user of the parking management system. The mobile terminal 100 receives operations from the user and inputs information based on the received operations.

[0013] Fig. 2 is a diagram showing an example of components included in the mobile terminal 100 shown in Fig. 1. As shown in Fig. 2, the mobile terminal 100 shown in Fig. 1 has a display unit 110, an input unit 120, and a communication unit 130. Note that Fig. 2 shows only the main components related to this embodiment among the components included in the mobile terminal 100 shown in Fig. 1.

[0014] The display unit 110 displays information processed by the mobile terminal 100. The display unit 110 displays information as characters (text) or images. For example, if the mobile terminal 100 is a smartphone, the display unit 110 is a display mounted on the smartphone. The display unit 110 displays an input screen for a user of the mobile terminal 100 to input reservation request information requesting the reservation of a parking space (a parking space for one vehicle in a parking lot). The display unit 110 displays vehicle space information of vacant spaces transmitted from the management server 200. The display unit 110 displays a parking entry screen for a user who has reserved a vehicle space to input parking entry request information when parking a vehicle. Furthermore, if the mobile terminal 100 is equipped with a camera, the display unit 110 functions as a viewfinder and displays images captured by the camera.

[0015] The input unit 120 receives an operation from an external device and inputs information to the mobile terminal 100 based on the received operation. The input unit 120 is, for example, a keyboard, a mouse, a touchpad, a touch panel, etc. The display unit 110 and the input unit 120 may implement a touch panel function. The information input by the input unit 120 is, for example, the above-mentioned reservation request information, entry request information, and exit request information. Furthermore, the information input by the input unit 120 is, for example, the above-mentioned vehicle compartment identification information based on an operation performed on the vehicle compartment information.

[0016] The communication unit 130 has a function of communicating with the management server 200 and the control device 300 via the communication network 400. The communication unit 130 transmits a reservation request signal based on the reservation request information input by the input unit 120 to the management server 200 via the communication network 400. The communication unit 130 also transmits a warehousing request signal based on the warehousing request information input by the input unit 120 to the management server 200 via the communication network 400. The communication unit 130 also transmits a vehicle compartment identification signal based on the vehicle compartment identification information input by the input unit 120 to the management server 200 via the communication network 400. When transmitting these signals, the communication unit 130 also transmits user identification information assigned to identify the mobile terminal 100 or the user who owns (operates) the mobile terminal 100 to the management server 200. Note that the communication method used for communication by the communication unit 130 is not particularly limited.

[0017] Management server 200 manages parking reservations and fees. Management server 200 may be provided by a company that manages parking, a company that provides parking spaces, or a company that manages fees. Management server 200 may also be divided into multiple roles and provided to each of these companies.

[0018] Fig. 3 is a diagram showing an example of components included in the management server 200 shown in Fig. 1. As shown in Fig. 3, the management server 200 shown in Fig. 1 has a database 210, a search unit 220, an information transmission unit 230, a control signal transmission unit 240, and a settlement unit 250. Note that Fig. 3 shows only the main components related to this embodiment among the components included in the management server 200 shown in Fig. 1.

[0019] The database 210 stores information indicating the usage status of each parking space compartment. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of information indicating the usage status of a parking space stored in the database 210 shown in FIG. 3. As shown in FIG. 4, the database 210 shown in FIG. 3 associates compartment identification information, user identification information, and reservation date and time information. The compartment identification information is identification information previously assigned to each compartment of a parking space managed by the management server 200. The user identification information is identification information uniquely assigned to a user to identify the user using the compartment. The user identification information may be identification information previously assigned to the mobile terminal 100 owned (operated) by the user. The user identification information may also be the license plate number (e.g., a four-digit number) of the vehicle using the compartment. By using the license plate number as the user identification information, in the event of a problem, the target vehicle can be reliably identified from the easily visible license plate number. By using the license plate number as the user identification information, more detailed usage history data such as usage frequency and usage patterns can be obtained. The reservation date and time information is information indicating the date and time when the vehicle will park in the parking space (use the parking space), and is information that is registered at the time of reservation. The database 210 may be provided outside the management server 200.

[0020] When the search unit 220 receives a reservation request signal transmitted from the communication unit 130, it searches for an empty vehicle compartment based on the vehicle compartment usage information stored in the database 210. Specifically, when the search unit 220 receives a reservation request signal transmitted from the communication unit 130, it searches for empty vehicle compartment identification information that is not associated with user identification information and reservation date and time information from the vehicle compartment identification information stored in the database 210. Furthermore, when the database 210 stores the usage status (in use or unused) in association with the vehicle compartment identification information, the search unit 220 searches the database 210 for vehicle compartment identification information whose usage status is unused.

[0021] The information transmitting unit 230 transmits the vehicle compartment information of the vacant vehicle compartment searched by the searching unit 220 to the mobile terminal 100. At this time, the information transmitting unit 230 transmits to the mobile terminal 100 vehicle compartment information that enables the location of the vacant vehicle compartment to be determined.

[0022] The control signal transmitting unit 240 transmits a first signal to the control device 300 installed in the vehicle compartment identified based on the vehicle compartment identification signal transmitted from the communication unit 130. When a parking request signal is transmitted from the communication unit 130 of the mobile terminal 100 that transmitted the reservation request signal, the control signal transmitting unit 240 transmits a second signal to the control device 300 that is the destination of the first signal. The first signal and the second signal may be any signal that can be distinguished between the control device 300 and the vehicle compartment.

[0023] The settlement unit 250 settles the reservation fee for the user identification information transmitted from the mobile terminal 100 together with the reservation request signal, based on the reservation time from when the control signal transmission unit 240 transmits the first signal to when it transmits the second signal. Furthermore, when the exit request signal is transmitted from the mobile terminal 100, the settlement unit 250 settles the parking fee for the user identification information transmitted from the mobile terminal 100 together with the exit request signal, based on the parking time from when the control signal transmission unit 240 transmits the second signal to when the exit request signal is transmitted from the mobile terminal 100.

[0024] The control device 300 is a device installed in each vehicle compartment of a parking space used by a user. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of components included in the control device 300 shown in FIG. 1. As shown in FIG. 5, the control device 300 shown in FIG. 1 has a prevention member 310, a member control unit 320, and a manual switching unit 330. Note that FIG. 5 shows only the main components related to this embodiment among the components included in the control device 300 shown in FIG. 1.

[0025] In response to an instruction from the member control unit 320, the preventing member 310 changes between a state that prevents (makes impossible) entry into the vehicle compartment where the control device 300 is fixed and a state that allows entry. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of the appearance of the preventing member 310 shown in FIG. 5. As shown in FIG. 6, the preventing member 310 shown in FIG. 5 can take two states: an upright state and a lying state. The upright state is a state in which the preventing member 310 is upright so as to prevent entry into the vehicle compartment where the control device 300 is fixed. The lying state is a state in which the preventing member 310 is lying on the ground so as to allow entry into the vehicle compartment where the control device 300 is fixed. In the example shown in FIG. 6, the preventing member 310 rotates around one end of the preventing member 310 as an axis, and the member control unit 320 controls the rotation using a motor or the like. The form of the preventing member 310 is not limited to this, and any form may be used as long as it can realize a state that prevents entry into the vehicle compartment and a state that allows entry.

[0026] When the member control unit 320 receives the first signal transmitted from the control signal transmission unit 240, it changes the preventing member 310 to a first configuration (the upright state shown in FIG. 6) that makes it impossible to enter the vehicle compartment. When the member control unit 320 receives the second signal transmitted from the control signal transmission unit 240, it changes the preventing member 310 to a second configuration (the laid-down state shown in FIG. 6) that makes it possible to enter the vehicle compartment.

[0027] The manual switching unit 330 manually changes the prevention member 310 from the first form to the second form. For example, the manual switching unit 330 may be a push button. When this button is pressed externally, the control of the prevention member 310 by the member control unit 320 is disabled, and the prevention member 310 changes from the first form to the second form. By using the manual switching unit 330, when the member control unit 320 does not operate due to a power outage or the like, the prevention member 310 can be changed to the second form, allowing the vehicle compartment to be used. To prevent unauthorized use of the vehicle compartment, it is preferable that only limited personnel be able to operate the manual switching unit 330. For example, when a user reserves a vehicle compartment, the system may send code information, such as a one-time password, to the user's mobile terminal 100, and the manual switching unit 330 may be enabled only when the code information is entered. In addition, personal information such as the vehicle number and the user's date of birth and name may be registered at the time of reservation, and the manual switching unit 330 may be enabled to operate only when this information is entered into the mobile terminal 100.

[0028] To enhance visibility, the exteriors of the entire preventing member 310 and the control device 300 are preferably colored a bright color such as yellow. Alternatively, the exterior of the preventing member 310 may be colored a bright color such as yellow, and the exteriors of the other components of the control device 300 may be colored a darker color than the preventing member 310. Furthermore, nighttime visibility can be improved by providing the preventing member 310 and the control device 300 with light-emitting elements such as LED (Light Emitting Diode) lamps or by coating or attaching reflective material to the surfaces of the preventing member 310. Furthermore, flashing the light-emitting elements provided on the preventing member 310 and the control device 300 can further enhance visibility. When the preventing member 310 is in a collapsed state, the light-emitting elements may be turned off, or a shape such as an arrow or predetermined characters may be illuminated to guide entry. This eliminates the risk of the control device 300 mistaking the vehicle for a parking-prohibited compartment, thereby promoting entry and increasing utilization. The prevention member 310 may emit light only when it is in the upright position, or may have a structure in which the external color changes, such as being bright when it is in the upright position and dark when it is in the lying position. Furthermore, when the prevention member 310 operates, a predetermined alarm sound may be sounded to alert people nearby.

[0029] The control device 300 is installed approximately in the center of each vehicle compartment (for example, in a position where the control device 300 is hidden under the vehicle when parked) and in a position where the vehicle's wheels do not come into contact with (pass through) the locking plate when entering or leaving the parking lot. In parking lots equipped with locking plates, there is a risk of driving incorrectly when the vehicle's wheels pass over the locking plate during entry or exit, resulting in an accident, such as colliding with another vehicle or a signboard installed in the vicinity. Drivers who are inexperienced in driving are particularly prone to sudden braking or sudden acceleration, increasing the likelihood of accidents. Furthermore, because the control unit of the locking plate (the convex portions on both sides) is installed at the foot of the entrance / exit door of the parked vehicle, there is a risk of users tripping and getting injured when getting in or out of the parking lot. On the other hand, by using the control device 300 in this embodiment instead of a locking plate, the vehicle's wheels will not pass over the locking plate when entering or exiting the parking lot, eliminating the risk of driving errors. Furthermore, the control device does not interfere with users getting in and out of the parking lot. Furthermore, when reserving a parking space by raising the locking plate as described in Patent Document 1, it is difficult to recognize that the parking space is reserved, and there is a risk that other vehicles will climb over the locking plate and park. Furthermore, since the locking plate must be used to prevent parked vehicles from leaving the parking space when raised, there is a height limit, making it difficult to recognize that the parking space is reserved (its function as a sign is poor). On the other hand, by using the control device 300 of this embodiment instead of a locking plate and providing the prevention member 310 with a structure that increases visibility as described above, it becomes easier to recognize that the parking space is reserved.

[0030] The following describes the process of reserving a vehicle space in the parking management system shown in Fig. 1. Fig. 7 is a sequence diagram for explaining an example of the process of reserving a vehicle space in the parking management system shown in Fig. 1.

[0031] First, the input unit 120 of the mobile terminal 100 receives an operation for reserving a parking space from an external user, and when the communication unit 130 connects to a site operated by the parking management system (management server 200) based on the received operation (step S1), the information transmission unit 230 of the management server 200 transmits input screen information for inputting reservation information to the mobile terminal 100 (step S2). The display unit 110 displays an input screen using the input screen information transmitted from the information transmission unit 230 (step S3).

[0032] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of an input screen displayed by the display unit 110 shown in FIG. 2 in step S3. As shown in FIG. 8, the display unit 110 displays a message prompting the user to input the desired date and time of parking. When the input unit 120 receives an operation from the user to input reservation information indicating the desired date and time of use (including at least the date and time of end of use) (step S4), the communication unit 130 transmits a reservation request signal including the desired date and time of use to the management server 200 (step S5). At this time, the input unit 120 may input area information indicating the area where the user wishes to park based on the operation from the user. In this case, the communication unit 130 also transmits the area information input by the input unit 120 to the management server 200.

[0033] The search unit 220 of the management server 200 then uses the vehicle compartment usage information stored in the database 210 to search for available vehicle compartments between the current date and time and the end date and time of use included in the reservation request signal transmitted from the communication unit 130 (step S6). If area information is transmitted from the communication unit 130, the search unit 220 searches for vehicle compartments that satisfy the transmitted area information. Next, the information transmission unit 230 transmits vehicle compartment information indicating the available vehicle compartments found by the search unit 220 to the mobile terminal 100 (step S7). This vehicle compartment information may include information indicating the location of the vehicle compartment, as well as fee information indicating the reservation fee and parking fee if the vehicle compartment is reserved. The display unit 110 of the mobile terminal 100 displays the vehicle compartment information transmitted from the information transmission unit 230.

[0034] Fig. 9 is a diagram showing an example of vehicle compartment information displayed by the display unit 110 shown in Fig. 2. As shown in Fig. 9, the vehicle compartment information is displayed so that the location of the vehicle compartment searched by the search unit 220 can be recognized. In the example shown in Fig. 9, the display on the display unit 110 shows the location of the vehicle compartment on a map, but the display may also show a list of vehicle compartment addresses.

[0035] When the input unit 120 receives an operation from the user to select a desired compartment (step S8), the communication unit 130 transmits a compartment identification signal indicating that the compartment has been identified to the management server 200 (step S9). This compartment selection operation by the user is an operation to select the display of the desired compartment from among the multiple compartments displayed on the display unit 110. For example, if the display unit 110 and the input unit 120 have a touch panel function, the user selects the desired compartment by touching the display of the desired compartment.

[0036] The management server 200 then identifies the vehicle compartment indicated by the vehicle compartment identification signal transmitted from the communication unit 130 as the vehicle compartment to be reserved (step S10). Next, the control signal transmission unit 240 transmits a first signal to the control device 300 installed in the identified vehicle compartment (step S11). The settlement unit 250 registers the reservation of the vehicle compartment in the database 210 and starts charging the reservation fee (step S12). When the first signal is transmitted to the control device 300, the member control unit 320 changes the prevention member 310 to a first form that makes it impossible to enter the vehicle compartment (step S13).

[0037] The following describes the processing performed when entering a vehicle space in the parking management system shown in Fig. 1. Fig. 10 is a sequence diagram for explaining an example of the processing performed when entering a vehicle space in the parking management system shown in Fig. 1.

[0038] First, the input unit 120 of the mobile terminal 100 receives an external operation for the user to enter the parking lot. Based on the received operation, the communication unit 130 connects to a site operated by the parking management system (management server 200) (step S21). The information transmission unit 230 of the management server 200 then transmits to the mobile terminal 100 entry screen information for inputting entry request information (step S22). At this time, the input unit 120 inputs the user identification information used when making the reservation or the vehicle compartment identification information of the reserved vehicle compartment based on the external operation, and the communication unit 130 transmits the input information and connects to the site. This allows the management server 200 to identify the reserved vehicle compartment. The display unit 110 displays the entry screen using the entry screen information transmitted from the information transmission unit 230 (step S23).

[0039] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of the entry screen displayed by the display unit 110 shown in FIG. 2 in step S23. As shown in FIG. 11, a display prompting the user to register entry is displayed by the display unit 110. In the example shown in FIG. 11, the entry information is accepted when the user touches the area where "enter" is displayed (step S24). Then, the communication unit 130 transmits an entry request signal including entry information requesting entry to the management server 200 (step S25). The display unit 110 may also display a display prompting the user to input the number of the vehicle compartment to be entered.

[0040] When the warehousing request signal is transmitted from the mobile terminal 100, the settlement unit 250 of the management server 200 completes charging the reservation fee (step S26). The settlement unit 250 registers the reservation fee in the database 210. The information transmission unit 230 transmits reservation fee information indicating the reservation fee registered in the database 210 to the mobile terminal 100 (step S27). The display unit 110 of the mobile terminal 100 displays the reservation fee information transmitted from the information transmission unit 230 (step S28).

[0041] Fig. 12 is a diagram showing an example of the reservation fee information screen displayed by the display unit 110 shown in Fig. 2 in step S28. As shown in Fig. 12, the display unit 110 displays a display prompting the user to register the reservation fee and their agreement to pay the reservation fee. In the example shown in Fig. 11, the payment information is accepted when the user touches the area that reads "Pay Fee" (step S29). Then, the communication unit 130 transmits the displayed payment information indicating their agreement to pay the reservation fee to the management server 200 (step S30).

[0042] When payment information is transmitted from the communication unit 130, the settlement unit 250 performs a settlement process for the reservation fee registered in the database 210 (step S31). Next, the control signal transmission unit 240 transmits a second signal to the control device 300 installed in the reserved vehicle compartment (step S32). The settlement unit 250 starts charging the parking fee for the vehicle compartment (step S33). When the second signal is transmitted to the control device 300, the member control unit 320 changes the prevention member 310 to a second form that allows entry into the vehicle compartment (step S34).

[0043] After that, when the vehicle leaves the parking space and the sensor installed in the control device 300 no longer detects the vehicle, the prevention member 310 may be controlled from the collapsed state to the upright state. This sensor detects the presence or absence of a vehicle based on whether or not it receives reflected waves of radio waves transmitted from the control device 300 at predetermined time intervals (e.g., 30 seconds, 5 minutes, etc.). Here, if radio waves are transmitted at 5-minute intervals, it may be calculated that the vehicle has been parked for 5 minutes longer than the actual parking time. Therefore, taking this into account, the amount equivalent to 5 minutes may be deducted from the calculation of the parking fee. Furthermore, the reservation fee and parking fee in this embodiment may be paid using a commonly used payment machine.

[0044] In this embodiment, when a user reserves a parking space using a mobile device, multiple available parking spaces are displayed for selection. This allows the user to select the desired parking space. Furthermore, the barrier preventing entry into the parking space is maintained in a mode that prevents entry into the parking space from the time the reservation request is transmitted until the time the request to enter the reserved parking space is transmitted. This prevents other vehicles from entering the reserved parking space, further reducing the risk of parking problems. Furthermore, a reservation fee is charged based on the time from the time the reservation request is transmitted until the time the request to enter the reserved parking space is transmitted. This allows the reservation fee to be paid before parking actually occurs. Furthermore, the reservation fee can be collected separately from the parking fee, allowing for effective use of available parking spaces. Furthermore, convenience is enhanced because users can be sure to park during their planned time slot. (Second embodiment)

[0045] Fig. 13 is a diagram showing a second embodiment of the parking management system of the present invention. As shown in Fig. 13, this embodiment includes a mobile terminal 100, a management server 200, and a control device 300. These are connected to each other so that they can communicate with each other via a communication network 400. This embodiment also includes an imaging device 500. The mobile terminal 100, the management server 200, and the control device 300 are each the same as those in the first embodiment.

[0046] The imaging device 500 is a camera that captures images of the vehicle interior. An imaging device 500 may be provided for each vehicle interior, or may be capable of capturing images of multiple vehicle interiors. The imaging device 500 may be a camera that captures still images of the vehicle interior at predetermined times, or a video camera that captures video of the vehicle interior. The imaging device 500 may store the captured images in a memory provided within the imaging device 500, or may transmit the captured images to the management server 200, which then stores the images. The imaging device 500 may also capture images of the vehicle interior at all times, or may capture images of the vehicle interior while the prevention member 310 is in the collapsed state. The imaging device 500 may also be a camera that can read (capture) the license plate attached to the vehicle using the vehicle interior. This enhances the deterrent effect of fraudulent use, such as non-payment of parking fees. Furthermore, in parking lots without locking plates or barriers (gates), this system charges the reservation fee and the parking fee separately. This raises concerns that users may mistakenly believe that the parking fee has already been paid, or may forget to pay the parking fee because they do not realize that payment is required when exiting the parking lot. However, by recording license plate information using the imaging device 500, it is possible to collect any unpaid parking fees at the next time the user uses the parking lot. Furthermore, since user information data can be collected, the accumulated data can be utilized. Furthermore, users may pay the parking fee by entering at least a portion of their vehicle license plate number on the input screen of the payment machine. This eliminates the need for users to go to the parking space to check the parking space number, even if the payment machine is located far from the parking space. Furthermore, the imaging device 500 may be built into the control device 300 or surrounding components such as the parking space's parking barrier block. This reduces the number of devices comprising the system. Furthermore, a human presence sensor may be installed near the vehicle compartment, such as on the payment machine or the control device 300, and a speaker may be provided to announce the need to pay the parking fee or sound a warning sound when the human presence sensor detects the vehicle leaving the parking lot. Furthermore, if the imaging device 500 cannot read the vehicle number because the user has tampered with the number so that it cannot be read from the outside, the speaker may sound a warning sound.

[0047] In this embodiment, the imaging device 500 captures an image of the vehicle interior, making it possible to easily deal with cases where the parking fee has not been paid. (Third embodiment)

[0048] Figure 14 is a diagram showing a third embodiment of the parking management system of the present invention. As shown in Figure 14, this embodiment includes a mobile terminal 101, an information display device 600, and a payment device 700. The mobile terminal 100 and the payment device 700 are connected to each other via a communication network 400 so that they can communicate with each other.

[0049] Fig. 15 is a diagram showing an example of components included in the mobile terminal 101 shown in Fig. 14. As shown in Fig. 15, the mobile terminal 101 shown in Fig. 14 has a display unit 110, an input unit 120, a communication unit 130, and a code information reading unit 140. Note that Fig. 15 shows only the main components related to this embodiment among the components included in the mobile terminal 101 shown in Fig. 14. The display unit 110, the input unit 120, and the communication unit 130 are the same as the display unit 110, the input unit 120, and the communication unit 130 shown in Fig. 2, respectively.

[0050] The code information reading unit 140 reads code information from an external device. The code information reading unit 140 reads code information displayed on an information display device 600 installed for each vehicle compartment or for a parking space with multiple vehicle compartments. This code information is, for example, a two-dimensional code. The code information includes information for connecting to a website for using the vehicle compartment. For example, if the mobile terminal 101 is a smartphone, the code information reading unit 140 is a two-dimensional code reading mechanism linked to a camera provided in the mobile terminal 101, and the user uses the camera to capture an image of the code information displayed on the information display device 600 to read the code information. This mechanism may be the same as that generally used to capture and read a two-dimensional code with a smartphone camera.

[0051] The information display device 600 is installed near the vehicle compartment and displays predetermined code information. The information display device 600 may be a structure on which information is posted, such as a signboard erected near the parking space of the vehicle compartment, or may be a device equipped with a display that displays information electronically. The code information displayed by the information display device 600 is information identified by, for example, a QR code (registered trademark). The code information displayed by the information display device 600 is read by the code information reading unit 140 of the mobile terminal 100 and transmitted by the communication unit 130 to the payment device 700, which is the connection destination indicated by the read code information.

[0052] The payment device 700 performs payment based on the user identification information and code information transmitted from the communication unit 130 of the mobile terminal 100. The payment method specified using the QR code may be the same as the so-called QR code payment.

[0053] The following describes the process of paying the fee in the parking management system shown in Fig. 14. Fig. 16 is a sequence diagram for explaining an example of the process of paying the fee in the parking management system shown in Fig. 14.

[0054] First, when the code information reading unit 140 of the mobile terminal 100 reads the QR code displayed by the information display device 600 (step S91), the communication unit 130 connects to the payment device 700, which is the connection destination indicated by the QR code, and transmits user identification information and code information to the payment device 700 (step S92). The payment device 700 then performs a payment process for the fee based on the user identification information and code information (step S93). The fee to be paid here may be the reservation fee or parking fee in the first embodiment. Note that, instead of the QR code displayed by the information display device 600, the fee may be paid using a QR code notified by the payment device 700 after use or a payment method using a payment application installed on the mobile terminal 101.

[0055] In this way, in this embodiment, code information such as a two-dimensional code is used for payment of fees. In this embodiment, payment is completed simply by reading the displayed code information, so compared to when the user inputs the information required for payment into the mobile terminal 100, incorrect input of information and the effort required can be reduced, and parking control that is less prone to problems can be performed. In addition, there is no need to install an adjustment machine for paying fees, which reduces capital investment and makes it easy to create an environment for settling parking fees. (Fourth embodiment)

[0056] Figure 17 is a diagram showing a fourth embodiment of the parking management system of the present invention. As shown in Figure 17, this embodiment includes a mobile terminal 100, a payment device 700, a sensor 800, and a determination unit 900. These are connected to each other so that they can communicate with each other via a communication network 400. This embodiment also includes an information display device 600. The mobile terminal 100, the information display device 600, and the payment device 700 are each the same as those in the third embodiment.

[0057] The sensor 800 detects whether or not a vehicle is parked in the vehicle compartment. The sensor 800 may be any sensor that can detect the presence or absence of an object, such as a loop coil embedded in the vehicle compartment, an infrared sensor, or an ultrasonic sensor. The sensor 800 transmits a detection signal indicating the detection result to the determination unit 900. The sensor 800 may also be a camera that captures an image of the vehicle compartment.

[0058] The determination unit 900 determines whether or not it is necessary to install a member that prevents the vehicle from entering the vehicle compartment, based on the result of detection by the sensor 800 and the code information read by the code information reading unit 140. This member may be, for example, the control device 300 described in the first embodiment. The determination unit 900 outputs the result of the determination. This output method may be a display, an audio output, a printout, or transmission to another device.

[0059] The following describes a determination method in the parking management system shown in Fig. 17. Fig. 18 is a sequence diagram for explaining an example of a determination method in the parking management system shown in Fig. 17.

[0060] When the sensor 800 detects that no vehicle is parked in a vehicle compartment (step S101), the sensor 800 transmits a detection signal indicating the detection result to the determination unit 900 (step S102). When the determination unit 900 receives the detection signal indicating that no vehicle is parked in a vehicle compartment, the determination unit 900 identifies the vehicle compartment captured by the sensor 800 that transmitted the detection signal. The determination unit 900 determines whether payment of the parking fee for the identified vehicle compartment has been completed based on the code information that has been read by the code information reading unit 140 and for which the parking entry process has been completed (step S103). Based on the determination result, the determination unit 900 determines whether installation of a prevention member is necessary (step S104). For example, if the percentage of vehicles that were parked but exited without paying the parking fee exceeds a preset threshold, the determination unit 900 may determine that installation of a prevention member is necessary in the vehicle compartment or all vehicle compartments located in the parking space.

[0061] In this way, in this embodiment, the sensor 800 is used to detect unpaid parking fees, and based on the detection result, it is determined whether or not a prevention member needs to be installed. This makes it easy to determine parking control according to the parking space situation. (Fifth embodiment)

[0062] In the process described using the sequence diagram shown in FIG. 10 in the first embodiment, an example was given in which a user connects to the management server 200 using the mobile terminal 100 to input parking entry information when entering the parking space. However, the parking entry process may also be performed by having the code information reading unit 140 of the mobile terminal 100 read a two-dimensional code displayed around the parking space. FIG. 19 is a sequence diagram for explaining an example of the process when entering the parking space in the fifth embodiment of the parking management system of the present invention. In the following explanation, an example will be given in which the two-dimensional code is a QR code. The configuration in this explanation is the same as the configuration in the first embodiment.

[0063] First, when the code information reader included in the mobile terminal 100 reads a QR code displayed around the vehicle interior at the time of parking (step S41), the communication unit 130 connects to the management server 200, which is the connection destination indicated by the QR code, and transmits a parking request signal to the management server 200 (step S42). At this time, the communication unit 130 may connect to the management server 200, which is the connection destination indicated by the QR code, and information necessary for parking may be exchanged between the communication unit 130 and the management server 200. For example, after the communication unit 130 connects to the management server 200, the management server 200 may request the communication unit 130 to send a parking request signal including user identification information, and the communication unit 130 may send the parking request signal to the management server 200. When the parking request signal is transmitted from the mobile terminal 100, the settlement unit 250 of the management server 200 completes charging the reservation fee (step S43). The settlement unit 250 registers the reservation fee in the database 210. The information transmitting unit 230 transmits reservation fee information indicating the reservation fee registered in the database 210 to the mobile terminal 100 (step S44). The display unit 110 of the mobile terminal 100 displays the reservation fee information transmitted from the information transmitting unit 230 (step S45). The display format of the reservation fee information may be the same as the display format shown in Fig. 11. When the input unit 120 receives and inputs the payment information (step S46), the communication unit 130 transmits payment information indicating agreement to pay the displayed reservation fee to the management server 200 (step S47).

[0064] When the payment information is transmitted from the communication unit 130, the settlement unit 250 performs a settlement process for the reservation fee registered in the database 210 (step S48). Next, the control signal transmission unit 240 transmits a second signal to the control device 300 installed in the reserved vehicle compartment (step S49). The settlement unit 250 starts charging the parking fee for the vehicle compartment (step S50). When the second signal is transmitted to the control device 300, the member control unit 320 changes the prevention member 310 to a second form that allows entry into the vehicle compartment (step S51).

[0065] In this manner, in this embodiment, the warehousing process is performed by reading the two-dimensional code displayed around the vehicle compartment with the code information reading unit 140 of the mobile terminal 100. This makes it easy to input the information required for warehousing, and enables the warehousing process to be performed quickly and reliably. (Sixth embodiment)

[0066] An embodiment of the parking management system when a vehicle leaves a parking space will be described below. Fig. 20 is a sequence diagram for explaining an example of processing when a vehicle leaves a parking space in the sixth embodiment of the parking management system of the present invention. The configuration in this description is the same as the configuration in the first embodiment.

[0067] First, the input unit 120 of the mobile terminal 100 receives an external operation for the user to exit the parking lot. Based on the received operation, the communication unit 130 connects to a site operated by the parking management system (management server 200) (step S61). The information transmission unit 230 of the management server 200 then transmits to the mobile terminal 100 exit screen information for inputting exit request information (step S62). At this time, the input unit 120 inputs the user identification information used when making the reservation or entering the parking lot or the vehicle compartment identification information of the vehicle compartment entered based on the external operation, and the communication unit 130 transmits the input information and connects to the site. This allows the management server 200 to identify the vehicle compartment into which the vehicle has entered. The display unit 110 displays the exit screen using the exit screen information transmitted from the information transmission unit 230 (step S63).

[0068] Fig. 21 is a diagram showing an example of the delivery screen displayed by the display unit 110 in step S63. As shown in Fig. 21, a display prompting the user to register for delivery is displayed by the display unit 110. In the example shown in Fig. 21, the delivery information is accepted when the user touches the area displaying "Delivery" (step S64). Then, the communication unit 130 transmits a delivery signal including delivery information for delivery to the management server 200 (step S65).

[0069] When the exit signal is transmitted from the mobile terminal 100, the settlement unit 250 of the management server 200 finishes charging the parking fee (step S66). The settlement unit 250 registers the parking fee in the database 210. The information transmission unit 230 transmits parking fee information indicating the parking fee registered in the database 210 to the mobile terminal 100 (step S67). The display unit 110 of the mobile terminal 100 displays the parking fee information transmitted from the information transmission unit 230 (step S68).

[0070] FIG. 22 is a diagram showing an example of the parking fee information screen displayed by display unit 110 in step S68. As shown in FIG. 22, display unit 110 displays the parking fee and prompts the user to register their agreement to pay the parking fee. In the example shown in FIG. 22, the payment information is accepted when the user touches the area that reads "Pay the fee" (step S69). Then, communication unit 130 transmits the displayed payment information indicating that the user has agreed to pay the parking fee to management server 200 (step S70).

[0071] When payment information is transmitted from the communication unit 130, the settlement unit 250 performs a payment process for the parking fee registered in the database 210 (step S71).

[0072] In the process described using the sequence diagram shown in Fig. 20, an example was given in which the user connects to management server 200 using mobile terminal 100 when leaving the parking lot and inputs leaving information, but the leaving process may also be performed by reading a two-dimensional code displayed around the parking lot using a code information reading unit provided in mobile terminal 100. Fig. 23 is a sequence diagram for explaining another example of the process when leaving the parking lot in the sixth embodiment of the parking management system of the present invention. In the following explanation, an example will be given in which the two-dimensional code is a QR code.

[0073] First, when the code information reader 140 of the mobile terminal 100 reads a QR code displayed around the vehicle compartment when the vehicle is leaving the parking lot (step S81), the communication unit 130 connects to the management server 200, which is the connection destination indicated by the QR code, and transmits a leaving signal to the management server 200 (step S82). At this time, the communication unit 130 may connect to the management server 200, which is the connection destination indicated by the QR code, and information necessary for leaving the parking lot may be exchanged between the communication unit 130 and the management server 200. For example, after the communication unit 130 connects to the management server 200, the management server 200 may request a leaving signal including user identification information from the communication unit 130, and the communication unit 130 may transmit the leaving signal to the management server 200. When the leaving signal is transmitted from the mobile terminal 100, the settlement unit 250 of the management server 200 completes charging the parking fee (step S83). The settlement unit 250 registers the parking fee in the database 210. The information transmitting unit 230 transmits parking fee information indicating the parking fee registered in the database 210 to the mobile terminal 100 (step S84). The display unit 110 of the mobile terminal 100 displays the parking fee information transmitted from the information transmitting unit 230 (step S85). The display format of the parking fee information may be the same as the display format shown in Fig. 22. When the input unit 120 receives and inputs the payment information (step S86), the communication unit 130 transmits payment information indicating agreement to pay the displayed parking fee to the management server 200 (step S87).

[0074] When the payment information is transmitted from the communication unit 130, the settlement unit 250 performs the payment process for the parking fee registered in the database 210 (step S88).

[0075] In this manner, in this embodiment, the parking fee payment process is performed when the vehicle leaves the parking lot, separately from the reservation fee payment process performed when the vehicle enters the parking lot. This makes it easier to manage the parking lot usage status. (Other embodiments)

[0076] Parking fee payments may be processed using commonly used payment machines or other equipment. Parking lots with gates collect parking fees using parking tickets and payment machines. In this case, the control device 300 may be installed in all parking spaces, or only in parking spaces near entrances and exits or spaces reserved for EVs (electric vehicles) that can be charged. In parking lots without gates, the locking plate can be removed and replaced with the control device 300, allowing reservation fees to be paid using a dedicated application and parking fees to be paid using an existing payment machine. The prevention member 310 is set to an upright position upon reservation and to a downright position upon parking, eliminating the need for forced exit control as with conventional locking plates. This eliminates the risk of damaging the vehicle. In existing coin parking lots, for example, in large parking lots, the management system of the present invention can be individually installed in specific parking spaces, such as those near frequently used entrances or spaces for EV charging. By using a dedicated application to make cashless payments for reservation fees only, existing payment machines can continue to be used to pay parking fees.

[0077] Furthermore, when the user makes a reservation, code information such as a one-time password provided by the system, personal information such as the vehicle license plate number, date of birth, and name of the user may be registered and used to carry out the warehousing process. In this way, the warehousing process can be carried out by entering the above information into a communication device other than the mobile terminal 100 used to make the reservation.

[0078] Furthermore, if an excessive external force is applied to the prevention member 310 for a predetermined period of time or longer, an alarm may be sounded or a notification may be sent to the management system. This makes it possible to prevent unauthorized use of the vehicle interior by forcibly tilting the prevention member 310 and damage to the prevention member 310.

[0079] In addition, the imaging device 500 may be equipped with a motion sensor or an infrared sensor, and if these sensors detect that a vehicle has moved without paying the parking fee (for example, due to fraudulent use or forgetting to pay the fee), the image and license plate number of the vehicle captured by the imaging device 500 may be recorded.

[0080] Although the above description has been given by allocating each function (process) to each component, this allocation is not limited to the above. Furthermore, the configuration of the components is also not limited to the above-described form, which is merely an example. [Explanation of symbols]

[0081] 100,101 Mobile devices 110 Display section 120 Input section 130 Communications Department 140 Code information reading unit 200 Management Server 210 databases 220 Search Department 230 Information Transmission Department 240 Control signal transmitter 250 Payment Department 300 control device 310 Prevention member 320 Component Control Unit 330 Manual Switching Unit 400 Communication Network 500 Imaging device 600 Information display device 700 Payment Device 800 sensors 900 Judgment section

Claims

1. The system includes an information display device that is provided near the vehicle interior and displays predetermined code information, a mobile terminal, and a payment device, The mobile terminal a code information reading unit that reads the code information displayed by the information display device; a communication unit that transmits user identification information that identifies a user of the mobile terminal and the code information read by the code information reading unit to the payment device, The payment device is a parking management system that performs payment of fees based on the user identification information and the code information transmitted from the communication unit.

2. The parking management system according to claim 1, a sensor that detects whether a vehicle is parked in the vehicle compartment; A parking management system having a judgment unit that determines whether or not it is necessary to install a preventive element that prevents entry into the vehicle compartment based on the results detected by the sensor and the code information read by the code information reading unit.

3. The parking management system according to claim 1 or 2, a prevention member that prevents entry into the vehicle compartment; A parking management system further having a control device including a manual switching unit that can manually change the prevention member from a first state that prevents entry into the vehicle compartment to a second state that allows entry into the vehicle compartment.

4. The parking management system according to claim 3, A parking management system in which the control device is installed approximately in the center of each of the vehicle compartments, in a position where the wheels of the vehicle entering the vehicle compartment do not come into contact with the control device when the vehicle enters or leaves the compartment.

Images