Information processing system, storage medium having stored therein information processing program, information processing apparatus, and information

Abstract

To provide a user with a route which includes a non-driving movement section and in which a driving movement section satisfies a desired condition.SOLUTION: The information processing system 1 according to the present embodiment includes an acquisition unit, a search unit, and an information output unit. The acquisition means acquires a departure place S and a destination G. The search means searches for a route R from a departure place S to a destination G. The route R includes driving movement sections D1 and D2 in which drivers move by driving the vehicles T and a non-driving movement section ND1 in which drivers move without driving the vehicles T, and is a suitable route in which the drivers arrive at the destination G by the vehicles T and the driving movement sections D1 and D2 satisfy a predetermined condition. The information output means outputs route information related to the adapted route.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4A

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an information processing system, an information processing program, an information processing device, and an information processing method. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, software or apps that provide vehicle route guidance using information processing terminals such as personal computers and smartphones have been known to have a function for searching routes that include sections traveled by car ferry or sections where automated driving is performed.

[0003] For example, Patent Document 1 describes a vehicle route guidance device that acquires a route from a current location to a destination based on ferry timetables, fares, etc. Patent Document 2 describes a route guidance system that determines a recommended route to be guided based on an automatically controlled continuous driving possible section. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2000-180195 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-59860 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] When providing guidance on a route that includes a driven section where the driver drives the vehicle and a non-driven section where the driver does not drive the vehicle, conventional route guidance takes into account conditions related to car ferry timetables and sections where autonomous driving is possible, i.e., conditions related to the non-driven section. However, for example, in the so-called 2024 problem in logistics, conditions will be imposed on the driving hours of drivers engaged in long-distance logistics transport, and there is an increasing need to also take into account conditions related to the driven section.

[0006] An object of the present invention is to provide an information processing system, an information processing program, an information processing device, and an information processing method that can provide a user with a route that includes a non-driving movement section and in which the driving movement section satisfies desired conditions. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The information processing system according to the present invention comprises: an acquisition means for acquiring a departure point and a destination point; a search means for searching for a route from the departure point to the destination, the route including a driving movement segment where a driver moves by driving a vehicle and a non-driving movement segment where the driver moves without driving the vehicle, the search means being a suitable route where the driver arrives at the destination by the vehicle and the driving movement segment satisfies a predetermined condition; an information output means for outputting route information relating to the suitable route; The present invention is characterized by comprising: [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a user with a route that includes a non-driving travel segment and in which the driving travel segment satisfies a desired condition. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a schematic configuration of an entire information processing system according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a functional block diagram of a user terminal according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a functional block diagram of a server according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4A] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a route candidate according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4B] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing another example of route candidates according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining working conditions of a driver. [Figure 6A] FIG. 3 is a sequence diagram showing an example of a processing operation between a user terminal and a server in the information processing system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6B] 6B is a sequence diagram following FIG. 6A showing an example of a processing operation between a user terminal and a server in the information processing system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of an input screen in the first embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of an output screen in the first embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing another example of the output screen in the first embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a functional block diagram of a server according to a second embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a driver database according to the second embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram showing an example of a processing operation between a user terminal and a server in an information processing system according to a second embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a driver extraction request screen in the second embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of an output screen in the second embodiment. [Figure 15] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating an example of an outward path and a return path according to a third embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of an input screen according to the third embodiment. [Figure 17A] FIG. 13 is a sequence diagram showing an example of a processing operation between a user terminal and a server in an information processing system according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 17B] FIG. 17B is a sequence diagram following FIG. 17A showing an example of a processing operation between a user terminal and a server in the information processing system according to the fourth embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, components having equivalent functions are designated by the same reference numerals, and detailed description of the components having the same reference numerals will not be repeated.

[0011] (First embodiment) An information processing system 1 according to a first embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 1 to Fig. 3. Fig. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a schematic configuration of the entire information processing system 1 according to the embodiment. Fig. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a functional block diagram of a user terminal 2 according to the embodiment. Fig. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a functional block diagram of a server 3 according to the embodiment.

[0012] 1, an information processing system 1 according to this embodiment includes a user terminal 2, a server 3, and a communication network NW. The user terminal 2 and the server 3 are connected to each other so as to be able to communicate with each other via a communication network NW such as the Internet. The communication network NW may be either a wired line or a wireless line, and the type and form of the line do not matter.

[0013] The user terminal 2 is a terminal device of a user who uses the information processing system 1. The user terminal 2 is a desktop personal computer, a notebook computer, a tablet terminal, a smartphone, etc. The server 3 is a server device located in, for example, a data center.

[0014] The configuration of the user terminal 2 will be described in detail with reference to FIG.

[0015] As shown in FIG. 2, the user terminal 2 includes a control unit 21, a communication unit 22, a storage unit 23, an operation input unit 24, and a display unit 25.

[0016] The control unit 21 controls the operation of the user terminal 2. The control unit 21 includes an information acquisition unit 211, an information output unit 212, and a display control unit 213. Details of each unit will be explained later. In this embodiment, each unit of the control unit 21 is realized by a processor in the user terminal 2 executing a predetermined program. Note that at least a portion of each unit of the control unit 21 may be realized by hardware.

[0017] The communication unit 22 is an interface for transmitting and receiving information between the user terminal 2 and the server 3 via the communication network NW.

[0018] The storage unit 23 stores data transmitted and received via the communication unit 22. In addition, the storage unit 23 may store programs executed by the control unit 21 and data required for processing by the programs. The storage unit 23 is configured by a storage device such as a semiconductor memory (such as an SSD) or a hard disk.

[0019] The operation input unit 24 is an interface for inputting information to the user terminal 2, and is, for example, a keyboard, a touchpad, or dial buttons in a stationary electronic device, or a touch panel or microphone in a mobile electronic device.

[0020] The display unit 25 is an interface that presents various types of information to the user from the user terminal 2, and is, for example, a liquid crystal display that displays images. The display unit 25 displays a GUI (Graphical User Interface) and the like for receiving operations from the user.

[0021] If the display unit 25 is a touch panel, the display unit 25 may also serve as the operation input unit 24. Furthermore, the display unit 25 does not have to directly present information to the user, but may be configured to output information. For example, the display unit 25 may output a video signal to a video display means connected externally to the user terminal 2, or may output data to an externally connected printing device, or may output data to a storage device within or external to the user terminal 2 for storage. Furthermore, the user terminal 2 may have audio output means such as a speaker instead of or in addition to the display unit 25.

[0022] The user terminal 2 may include a positioning unit (not shown) that measures the current location of the user terminal 2 using a means such as a global positioning system (GPS) or Wi-Fi positioning.

[0023] Next, each part of the control unit 21 will be described in detail.

[0024] The information acquisition unit 211 accepts information input by the user via the operation input unit 24. The accepted information is, for example, information about the departure point, destination, and time (departure date and time or arrival date and time), and information about specifying conditions that the driving movement section included in the route must satisfy (driving movement section conditions). The driving movement section conditions are an example of a predetermined condition in the claims. The user inputs place names, facility names (such as logistics base names), addresses, telephone numbers, latitude and longitude, etc. as information about the departure point and destination. The information acquisition unit 211 is an example of an acquisition means in the claims.

[0025] The information acquisition unit 211 may acquire at least a part of this information from sources other than user input. For example, the information acquisition unit 211 may acquire the current location of the user terminal 2 from the positioning unit as the departure point, or the current date and time as the departure date and time. Furthermore, in cases where the information processing system 1 is configured to take into consideration at least one driving movement section condition (for example, working conditions or conditions related to fees, which will be described later) regardless of user input, the information acquisition unit 211 may not need to acquire information related to the designation of the corresponding driving movement section condition from the user. Furthermore, the information acquisition unit 211 may acquire information related to the designation of conditions that should be satisfied by non-driving movement sections included in the route (hereinafter referred to as "non-driving movement section conditions").

[0026] Furthermore, the information acquisition unit 211 receives map information, route information, and the like from the server 3 via the communication unit 22. Note that the map information may be downloaded in advance and stored in the storage unit .

[0027] The information output unit 212 transmits various information such as the departure point and destination to the server 3 via the communication unit 22.

[0028] The display control unit 213 converts information into a video signal and outputs it to the display unit 25. For example, the display control unit 213 controls the display unit 25 to display an interface such as a map and buttons for operating the map. The display control unit 213 also controls the display unit 25 to display a route on a map based on the map information and route information. The display control unit 213 is an example of a display control means.

[0029] Next, the configuration of the server 3 will be described in detail with reference to FIG.

[0030] As shown in FIG. 3, the server 3 includes a control unit 31, a communication unit 32, and a storage unit 33.

[0031] The control unit 31 controls the operation of the server 3. The control unit 31 includes an information acquisition unit 311, a route search unit 312, a route extraction unit 313, and an information output unit 314. Details of each unit will be explained later. In this embodiment, each unit of the control unit 31 is realized by a processor in the server 3 executing a predetermined program. Note that at least a part of each unit of the control unit 31 may be realized by hardware.

[0032] The communication unit 32 is an interface for transmitting and receiving information between the server 3 and the user terminal 2 via the communication network NW.

[0033] The storage unit 33 stores data transmitted and received via the communication unit 32. In addition, the storage unit 33 may store programs executed by the control unit 31 and data required for processing by the programs. The storage unit 33 is configured by a storage device such as a semiconductor memory (such as an SSD) or a hard disk.

[0034] As shown in FIG. 3, the storage unit 33 also includes a route network database 331, a vehicle transportation section database 332, an automatic driving section database 333, and a working conditions database 334.

[0035] The route network database 331 is a database used for route searches, and includes road network information as route network information. The road network information is expressed by a combination of data on nodes on the road network representation, such as intersections and ports, and data on links, which are road sections between the nodes.

[0036] The vehicle transport section database 332 includes vehicle transport section information related to vehicle transport sections. Here, a vehicle transport section is a section along which vehicles are transported by a transport means such as a car ferry, a RORO ship, a container ship, or a car train. The vehicle transport section information includes various information related to the transport means. For example, if the transport means is a car ferry, the vehicle transport section information includes information related to the car ferry's route, timetable, reservation status, fare, etc. The route information includes, for example, information on the departure port, arrival port, and stopover ports. The timetable information includes, for example, information on the date and time of departure from the departure port, the date and time of arrival at the arrival port, the date and time of arrival at the stopover port, and the date and time of departure from the stopover port. The reservation status information includes, for example, information on whether the car ferry can be reserved and information on the congestion level. The fare information includes, for example, information on the car ferry vehicle fare (vehicle shipping fare) and passenger fare. The vehicle transport section database 332 may be part of the route network database 331. In this case, the vehicle transport section information is included in the route network database 331.

[0037] The autonomous driving section database 333 includes autonomous driving section information related to autonomous driving sections. Here, an autonomous driving section is a section where the vehicle is driven autonomously, such as a highway or a specified section on a highway. The autonomous driving section information is, for example, information indicating whether autonomous driving is possible for each link included in the route network information. Alternatively, the autonomous driving section information is, for example, information regarding areas where autonomous driving is possible. The autonomous driving section may differ depending on the vehicle or vehicle type.

[0038] The working conditions database 334 is a database related to the working conditions of drivers who drive delivery vehicles. Working conditions include, for example, laws, regulations, notices, work rules, contract details, and working conditions related to drivers. Laws and regulations and notices related to drivers include the Labor Standards Act, the Industrial Safety and Health Act, standards for improving working hours for automobile drivers (Improvement Standards Notice), and special provisions for ferries. Working conditions related to drivers include, for example, the number of hours worked so far this month, how many hours remaining they can work, and the number of hours planned for the future. The working conditions database 334 may include multiple databases created for each law, regulation, notice, etc.

[0039] The ferry special provisions are stipulated in, for example, "Special Provisions on Working Hours and Rest Periods for Drivers Engaged in Businesses Other Than General Passenger Car Transportation Businesses (Law No. 92 of March 1, 1989)." According to the ferry special provisions, for example, aboard a ship for eight or more consecutive hours can be treated as a rest period during which the driver is not bound by work. The working conditions database 334 contains conditional expressions, etc. for determining whether or not these laws and regulations are met.

[0040] The route network database 331, the vehicle transportation section database 332, the automated driving section database 333, and the working conditions database 334 may be updated at predetermined times. The storage unit 33 does not necessarily have to be provided in the server 3, and may be provided in a separate device connected via the communication network NW.

[0041] Although not shown, the storage unit 33 may also include a map information database and a POI (Point Of Interest) information database. The map information database is mainly used for map display or point search (e.g., latitude and longitude search). The POI information database is mainly used for point search (e.g., free keyword search or category search). The POI information includes location information, name information, etc. of points. This POI information may be used for point search, point setting of route search conditions, etc.

[0042] Next, each part of the control unit 31 will be described in detail.

[0043] The information acquisition unit 311 acquires various information such as the departure point and destination from the user terminal 2 via the communication unit 32. The information acquisition unit 311 is an example of an acquisition means in the claims.

[0044] The route search unit 312 searches for route candidates based on the information acquired by the information acquisition unit 311. The route candidate is, for example, a route from a departure point to a destination, which includes a driving movement section where the driver drives the vehicle and a non-driving movement section where the driver does not drive the vehicle, and is a route by which the driver arrives at the destination by vehicle. When searching, the route search unit 312 appropriately references the route network database 331, the vehicle transportation section database 332, and the automatic driving section database 333. The route search unit 312 may search for route candidates based on time information (departure date and time or arrival date and time) included in the search conditions and the timetable of the transportation means.

[0045] After searching for route candidates, the route search unit 312 generates route information, which is information about the searched route candidates. The generated route information includes, for example, information about links connecting the departure point to the destination, the means of transportation, the travel distance, the time and cost required for the travel, the departure date and time, and the arrival date and time.

[0046] Here, route candidates searched by the route search unit 312 in this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 4A and Fig. 4B. Fig. 4A is a diagram showing an example of a route candidate according to this embodiment. Fig. 4B is a diagram showing another example of a route candidate according to this embodiment.

[0047] 4A, the route search unit 312 searches for, for example, route R as a route candidate. Route R is a route from a departure point S to a destination G, in which a driver departs from the departure point S in a vehicle T and arrives at the destination G in the vehicle T. In this embodiment, vehicle T is a delivery vehicle (truck) on which luggage is loaded. The departure point S is a collection point P1 for this luggage, and the destination G is a delivery point P2 for this luggage.

[0048] As shown in FIG. 4A, route R includes two driving movement sections D1 and D2 and one non-driving movement section ND1. Driving movement sections D1 and D2 are sections where the driver drives vehicle T and moves. Non-driving movement section ND1 is a section where the driver moves without driving vehicle T. In the example of FIG. 4A, non-driving movement section ND1 is a vehicle transport section (car ferry section) where vehicle T is transported by car ferry F. Route R is an example of a route (first route) in which the non-driving movement section is a vehicle transport section.

[0049] 4B, the route search unit 312 in this embodiment searches for another route candidate, for example, route R'. Route R' is a route from a departure point S to a destination G, and is a route different from route R among routes in which the driver departs from the departure point S in vehicle T and arrives at destination G in vehicle T.

[0050] As shown in FIG. 4B, route R' includes two driving movement sections D3 and D4 and one non-driving movement section ND2. Driving movement sections D3 and D4 are sections different from driving movement sections D1 and D2. Non-driving movement section ND2 is a section different from non-driving movement section ND1. In the example of FIG. 4B, non-driving movement section ND2 is an automated driving section in which automated driving of vehicle T is performed. Route R' is an example of a route (second route) in which the non-driving movement section is an automated driving section.

[0051] In this way, the route search unit 312 searches for at least one route candidate in which the driver departs from the departure point S in the vehicle T, includes a driven movement section and a non-driven movement section, and arrives at the destination G in the vehicle T. In this embodiment, the route search unit 312 searches for a route in which the non-driven movement section is a vehicle transport section and a route in which the non-driven movement section is an autonomous driving section as the route candidate. Note that the number of driven movement sections and non-driven movement sections included in the route candidate searched by the route search unit 312 is not limited to the examples in FIGS. 4A and 4B . That is, the route search unit 312 may search for any route that includes one or more driven movement sections and one or more non-driven movement sections as the route candidate. In this case, each of the one or more non-driven movement sections may be a vehicle transport section or an autonomous driving section.

[0052] Furthermore, although not shown, in this embodiment, the route search unit 312 further searches, as route candidates, for a route (driving route) along which the driver drives the vehicle T over all sections from the departure point S to the destination G. A driving route is a route from the departure point S to the destination G that includes only a driving movement section and does not include a non-driving movement section. Note that in this embodiment, route candidates that are driving routes are extracted by the route extraction unit 313 even if the driving movement section does not satisfy the driving movement section conditions.

[0053] The user may be able to specify route candidates to be searched by the route search unit 312. For example, the user may be able to specify whether or not to execute a search by the route search unit 312 for each of the above-described route R including the car ferry section, route R' including the autonomous driving section, and the driving route.

[0054] The route search unit 312 may also search for route candidates that pass through one or more intermediate points. In this case, for example, the information acquisition unit 211 of the user terminal 2 receives information about the intermediate points in addition to the departure point S and the destination G. Then, the route search unit 312 searches for route candidates in which the driver departs from the departure point S in vehicle T, passes through the intermediate points, and arrives at the destination G in vehicle T.

[0055] Returning to the description of each part of the control unit 31.

[0056] After the route search unit 312 searches for route candidates, the route extraction unit 313 extracts, from the route candidates, a route whose driving movement section satisfies the driving movement section conditions (hereinafter referred to as a "suitable route"). During extraction, the route extraction unit 313 appropriately refers to the working condition database 334. In this embodiment, the route extraction unit 313 extracts, as the suitable routes, a suitable route (first suitable route) whose driving movement section satisfies the driving movement section conditions among routes whose non-driving movement section is a vehicle transport section, and a suitable route (second suitable route) whose driving movement section satisfies the driving movement section conditions among routes whose non-driving movement section is a vehicle transport section. In other words, the route extraction unit 313 extracts, as the suitable routes, a first suitable route whose non-driving movement section is a vehicle transport section and a second suitable route whose non-driving movement section is an autonomous driving section.

[0057] In this embodiment, the route search unit 312 and the route extraction unit 313 constitute an example of a searching means in the claims. That is, the route search unit 312 and the route extraction unit 313 search for a suitable route that is a route from a departure point to a destination, includes a driving movement segment and a non-driving movement segment, allows the driver to arrive at the destination by vehicle, and the driving movement segment satisfies a driving movement segment condition. The route search unit 312 and the route extraction unit 313 also search for a driving route. The route search unit 312 and the route extraction unit 313 also search for a first suitable route and a second suitable route as suitable routes.

[0058] The information output unit 314 transmits route information related to the adapted route extracted by the route extraction unit 313 to the user terminal 2 via the communication unit 22. The information output unit 314 is an example of information output means in the claims. In this embodiment, the information output unit 314 outputs route information related to a first adapted route whose non-driving movement section is a vehicle transportation section, route information related to a second adapted route whose non-driving movement section is an automated driving section, and route information related to a driving route.

[0059] Here, the driving movement section conditions in this embodiment will be described in detail. In this embodiment, the driving movement section conditions include "total driving distance≦total non-driving distance," "total driving time≦total non-driving time," "total driving distance," "total driving time," "total cost," and "considering working conditions."

[0060] "Total driving distance ≦ total non-driving distance" is a condition that the sum of the distances of the driving sections included in the route (total driving distance) is less than or equal to the sum of the distances of the non-driving sections (total non-driving distance). In other words, in a route that satisfies "total driving distance ≦ total non-driving distance", the sum of the distances of the driving sections is less than or equal to the sum of the distances of the non-driving sections.

[0061] "Total driving time ≦ total non-driving time" is a condition that the sum of the required times of the driving sections included in the route (total driving time) is less than or equal to the sum of the required times of the non-driving sections (total non-driving time). In other words, in a route that satisfies "total driving time ≦ total non-driving time," the sum of the required times of the driving sections is less than or equal to the sum of the required times of the non-driving sections.

[0062] The "total driving distance" is a condition that the total driving distance of the route is equal to or less than a threshold. That is, in a route that satisfies the "total driving distance", the sum of the distances of the driving sections is equal to or less than a threshold.

[0063] The "total driving time" is a condition that the total driving time for the route is equal to or less than a threshold. In other words, for a route that satisfies the "total driving time", the sum of the required times for the driving sections is equal to or less than a threshold.

[0064] "Total cost" is a condition that the total cost for the driving section of the route is below a threshold. In other words, for a route that satisfies "total cost," the total cost for the driving section is below a threshold. The total cost for the driving section includes, for example, vehicle operating costs such as gasoline and electricity (in the case of an electric vehicle), highway tolls, wages for the driver's work during the driving section, and accommodation costs for the driver when staying at a hotel or drive-in. Note that the total cost for the driving section being below a threshold is an example of satisfying the condition regarding costs for the driving section in the claims. As another example, the condition regarding costs for the driving section may be a condition that at least one of the various costs described above is below a threshold or above a threshold.

[0065] "Consideration of working conditions" is a condition that the driving section of the route complies with the working conditions of the driver. For example, on a route that satisfies "consideration of working conditions," the total driving time is below a threshold and complies with the driver's working situation on that day, so the driver can drive that driving section. As another example, the allocation of driving sections on a route that satisfies "consideration of working conditions" (the ratio determined by a timetable, schedule, etc.) complies with the ferry exception.

[0066] Here, with reference to Figure 5, we will explain in detail a route that complies with the ferry exception, which is an example of a route where the driving travel section complies with the working conditions. Figure 5 is a diagram showing a timetable to explain the working conditions of drivers. In Figure 5, the colored cells represent the time periods when the driver is on duty, the dotted hatched cells represent the time periods when the driver is on board the car ferry, and the diagonally hatched cells represent the time periods when the driver is resting (rest time). Note that rest time differs from the rest time mentioned above and is treated as part of the time when the driver is on duty.

[0067] As shown in Figure 5, Driver AA works according to the following timetable: 12:00 to 14:00: Committed, 14:00 to 19:00: Boarding the car ferry, 19:00 to 1:00: Committed the next day, 1:00 to 4:00: Break, 4:00 to 5:00: Committed. On the other hand, Driver BB works according to the following timetable: 12:00 to 13:00: Committed, 13:00 to 21:00: Boarding the car ferry, 21:00 to 5:00: Committed the next day.

[0068] In other words, Driver AA is detained for two hours from 12:00 to 14:00, and then aboard the car ferry for five hours from 14:00 to 19:00. Because the car ferry ride time is less than eight hours, according to the Ferry Exception, Driver AA's detention time after disembarking must be combined with the two hours before boarding to be less than eight hours. In other words, Driver AA's detention time after disembarking is a maximum of six hours. Furthermore, after the detention time after disembarking, he is required to take a break of half that time. Driver AA takes a three-hour break from 1:00 to 4:00. Therefore, Driver AA's timetable complies with the Ferry Exception.

[0069] On the other hand, Driver BB is detained for one hour from 12:00 to 13:00, and then spends eight hours on the car ferry from 13:00 to 21:00. Because the car ferry ride time is more than eight hours, Driver BB may start work after disembarking, according to the Ferry Exception. In other words, Driver BB's detained time after disembarking may be the maximum working hours for that day. Driver BB starts work from 21:00. Therefore, Driver BB's timetable complies with the Ferry Exception.

[0070] In this way, various conditions must be considered to determine whether the searched route complies with the working conditions. In this embodiment, the route extraction unit 313 refers to the working conditions database 334 to extract routes that comply with the working conditions of the driver from among the routes searched by the route search unit 312.

[0071] When the user specifies the above-mentioned driving movement section conditions, the route extraction unit 313 extracts a route that satisfies the specified driving movement section conditions from at least one route that has been searched for. Note that the user may specify multiple extraction conditions. In this case, the route extraction unit 313 extracts a route that satisfies all of the specified driving movement section conditions from at least one route that has been searched for.

[0072] Furthermore, the above-described conditions are driving movement section conditions related to the driving movement section, but are not limited to this, and there may be non-driving movement section conditions and conditions related to the entire route.

[0073] The non-driving travel section condition may be, for example, a condition that the total non-driving distance or total non-driving time of the route is equal to or greater than a threshold, or a condition that the required time or distance of at least one non-driving travel section of the route is equal to or greater than a threshold. For example, by extracting routes that satisfy the condition that the required time of at least one non-driving travel section is 8 hours or more, routes that utilize the ferry exemption can be presented to the user.

[0074] Other examples of non-driving travel section conditions include a condition that the non-driving travel section of the route satisfies a working condition (for example, the required time for the automated driving section is equal to or greater than a threshold), or a condition that the total cost for the non-driving travel section of the route is equal to or less than a threshold. Here, the total cost for the non-driving travel section includes, for example, vehicle travel costs, ferry fares, highway tolls, wages for driver work in the non-driving travel section, and accommodation costs. The ferry fare is the cost required to board the ferry (boarding fee).

[0075] In addition, conditions regarding the entire route may include, for example, a condition that both the driven and non-driven travel sections of the route satisfy the working conditions (for example, the total driving travel time is below a threshold and the required time for the automated driving section is above a threshold), a condition that the total distance or total required time for the route is below a threshold, and a condition that the total cost for the entire route is below a threshold.

[0076] <Operation of information processing system 1> Next, an example of the operation of the information processing system 1 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to the sequence diagrams of Figures 6A and 6B. Note that the following description assumes that the user has operated the user terminal 2 in advance, and that an input screen for route search is displayed on the display unit 25 of the user terminal 2.

[0077] First, the information acquisition unit 211 of the user terminal 2 accepts input of the departure point, etc. (Step S1). Specifically, the user operates the operation input unit 24 to input information about the departure point and destination on the input screen W1 shown in Fig. 7. In the example of Fig. 7, "Tokyo" is input as information about the departure point, and "Osaka" is input as information about the destination.

[0078] 7, the user inputs the arrival date and time of the vehicle's arrival at the destination. As a result, when searching for a route that includes a car ferry section, for example, the route search unit 312 can search for a route that is suitable for the input arrival date and time, taking into account the car ferry timetable. Note that the user may be able to input the "departure date and time," "first car ferry," "last car ferry," etc., by tapping or clicking on "arrival date and time."

[0079] Next, the information acquisition unit 211 of the user terminal 2 accepts the specification of driving movement section conditions (step S2). Specifically, the user operates the operation input unit 24 to specify driving movement section conditions in the "driving movement section conditions" field on the input screen W1 shown in FIG. 7. The user operates the check box on the left end of each item in the driving movement section conditions field. Checking a check box enables the item, and the item is taken into consideration when the route extraction unit 313 of the server 3 extracts a route (later step S7). On the other hand, leaving the check box blank disables the driving movement section condition for the item, and the item is not taken into consideration when extracting a route.

[0080] As shown in Fig. 7, the user may be able to set threshold values ​​for "total driving distance," "total driving time," and "total cost" by inputting values ​​in these fields. Initial values ​​may also be input in these fields.

[0081] Next, the information acquisition unit 211 of the user terminal 2 determines whether or not the search button B in FIG. 7 has been pressed (step S3). If it is determined that the search button B has been pressed (step S3: Yes), the information output unit 212 of the user terminal 2 transmits information related to the input departure point, destination, and arrival date and time, as well as information related to the specification of the driving movement section conditions (input information) to the server 3 (step S4). If it is not determined that the search button B has been pressed (step S3: No), the process waits. Thus, in this embodiment, when the information acquisition unit 211 receives a search instruction from the user (an instruction to search for a route including a non-driving movement section), the route search unit 312 searches for a route.

[0082] Next, the information acquisition unit 311 of the server 3 receives the input information transmitted from the user terminal 2 (step S5).

[0083] Next, the route search unit 312 of the server 3 searches for route candidates based on the input information received in step S5 (step S6). The route search unit 312 generates route information related to the searched route candidates. In this embodiment, the route search unit 312 of the server 3 searches for driving routes, routes including car ferry sections, and routes including autonomous driving sections.

[0084] In step S6, the route search unit 312 does not have to search for driving routes as route candidates. Alternatively, the route search unit 312 may search for only one of a route including a car ferry section and a route including an autonomous driving section as route candidates. Alternatively, the route search unit 312 may search for a route whose non-driving section is only a car ferry section or a route whose non-driving section is only an autonomous driving section as route candidates.

[0085] Alternatively, the user may be able to specify whether the route search unit 312 should search for a driving route, a route including a car ferry section, or a route including an autonomous driving section as a route candidate. In this case, for example, an item that allows the user to specify whether to search for a route or not may be displayed on the input screen in FIG. 7.

[0086] Next, the route extraction unit 313 of the server 3 extracts routes (suitable routes) whose driving movement sections satisfy the specified driving movement section conditions from the route candidates searched for in step S6 (step S7). In the example of Fig. 7, since "total driving time ≤ total non-driving time", "total driving time", and "consider working conditions" were valid as driving movement section conditions, the route extraction unit 313 extracts routes whose total driving time is shorter than the total non-driving time, whose total driving time is 8 hours or less, and whose driving movement sections comply with the working conditions.

[0087] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the driving movement section conditions are applied to routes including car ferry sections and routes including automated driving sections, but are not applied to driving routes. That is, even if a driving route does not satisfy the specified driving movement section conditions, it is extracted by the route extraction unit 313. However, without being limited to this, at least a part of the driving movement section, for example, "total driving time" or "total cost", may be applied to the driving route.

[0088] Next, the information output unit 314 of the server 3 transmits route information of the route extracted in step S7 to the user terminal 2 (step S8). In this embodiment, the information output unit 314 outputs route information related to a driving route, route information related to a suitable route (first suitable route) including a car ferry section that is a vehicle transportation section, and route information related to a suitable route (second suitable route) including an automated driving section.

[0089] Next, the information acquisition unit 211 of the user terminal 2 receives route information relating to these routes from the server 3 (step S9).

[0090] Next, the display control unit 213 of the user terminal 2 controls the display unit 25 to display the route information acquired in step S9 (step S10). Specifically, the route is superimposed on a map using the route information and map information stored in the storage unit 23. Fig. 8 is a diagram showing an example of an output screen W2 in this embodiment.

[0091] In the output screen W2 of Figure 8, routes R1, R2, and R3 are superimposed on a map that spans roughly the Kansai region to the Kanto region. Route R1 is a driving route, route R2 is a suitable route that includes a vehicle transport section by car ferry, and route R3 is a suitable route that includes an automated driving section (here, an expressway section). In this way, in this embodiment, route R1, which is a driving route, route R2, which is a suitable route that includes a vehicle transport section, and route R3, which is a suitable route that includes an automated driving section, are displayed so that they can be compared.

[0092] Also, tabs B1 to B3 are shown at the top of the output screen W2 in FIG. 8. Tab B1 is a tab corresponding to route R1, which is a driving route. Tab B1 displays the label "All driving," the required time, total cost, and total distance traveled (the sum of the distances of the driving section and the automated driving section). Tab B2 is a tab corresponding to route R2, which includes a vehicle transport section, and tab B3 is a tab corresponding to route R3, which includes an automated driving section. As with tab B1, tabs B2 and B3 also display their respective labels, required time, etc.

[0093] By selecting one of the tabs B1 to B3 by tapping, clicking, or the like, the tabs B1 to B3 and the corresponding routes R1 to R3 are highlighted. In the example of FIG. 8, the tab B2 is selected, and the tab B2 and route R2 are highlighted. This allows the user to easily grasp the shape of the route on the map and its outline.

[0094] Additionally, tab B4 is displayed below tabs B1 to B3. By selecting tab B4, output screen W3 showing detailed information about the selected route is displayed, as shown in Fig. 9. Output screen W3 includes area E1 and area E2.

[0095] Area E1 displays the total travel time and total distance traveled for each of routes R1 to R3. The total travel time is the sum of the total driving time and total non-driving time for each route. The total travel time includes the driving time during which the driver drives the vehicle (i.e., the total driving time) as well as the rest and rest time during which the driver is not driving the vehicle. Here, rest time includes, for example, time spent at a drive-in or service area, time on a car ferry of less than eight hours, time spent napping, time during automatic driving, etc. On the other hand, rest time includes, for example, time spent staying at a hotel or the like, or time on a car ferry of eight hours or more.

[0096] Area E2 displays the total costs for routes R1 to R3. In the example of Figure 8, the total costs are the sum of vehicle travel costs, highway tolls, ferry fares, and wages and accommodation fees. In the example of Figure 9, the ferry fares include the fares for both the vehicle and the driver, and the driver's ferry fares are excluded from the accommodation costs.

[0097] As described above, the information processing system 1 according to the first embodiment includes an acquisition means, a search means, and an information output means. The acquisition means acquires a departure point and a destination. The search means searches for routes from the departure point to the destination, including a driving movement segment where the driver drives the vehicle and a non-driving movement segment where the driver does not drive the vehicle, and routes by which the driver arrives at the destination by vehicle as route candidates, and then extracts, from the route candidates, a route whose driving movement segment satisfies a predetermined condition as a suitable route. The information output means outputs route information related to the suitable route.

[0098] According to this embodiment, it is possible to present to the user a route that includes both a driving section and a non-driving section, and in which the driving section satisfies desired conditions. This allows the user to easily understand a route that takes into account conditions for the driving section, such as the 2024 logistics problem.

[0099] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the information output unit 314 of the server 3 outputs route information related to a suitable route that includes a non-driving section and route information related to a driving route that does not include a non-driving section. Based on this route information, the display control unit 213 of the user terminal 2 controls the display unit 25 to display routes R2 and R3 that include a non-driving section and a driving route R1 that does not include a non-driving section in a comparable manner. This allows the user to easily compare, for example, a route that uses a car ferry with the driving route.

[0100] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the information output unit 314 of the server 3 outputs route information related to a first suitable route whose non-driving travel section is a vehicle transportation section, and route information related to a second suitable route whose non-driving travel section is an automated driving section. Based on this route information, the display control unit 213 of the user terminal 2 controls the display unit 25 to display route R2 including a vehicle transportation section and route R3 including an automated driving section in a comparable manner. This allows the user to easily compare, for example, a route using a car ferry with a route using automated driving.

[0101] Furthermore, in this embodiment, by enabling "Consider working conditions," the user can easily grasp routes that satisfy various conditions related to working conditions.

[0102] Furthermore, in this embodiment, by enabling "total cost," the user can easily find, for example, a route that reduces costs.

[0103] In this embodiment, the vehicle is a delivery vehicle on which cargo is loaded. In this case, the route search unit 312 may search for a route as a delivery route based on a timetable of a transportation means (for example, a car ferry).

[0104] The route search unit 312 may also search for a route that includes both a vehicle transport section and an autonomous driving section. In this case, it may be possible to specify whether to prioritize the search of the vehicle transport section or the autonomous driving section.

[0105] 7 may be applied to the driving route R1. In this case, the route extraction unit 313 modifies the searched route to allow for appropriate breaks or rest periods, and extracts the modified route. This allows for the extraction of a more realistic driving route.

[0106] (Second embodiment) An information processing system according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 10. Fig. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a functional block diagram of a server 3A according to the second embodiment. The server 3A according to this embodiment further includes a driver extraction unit 315 and a driver database 335 in addition to the configuration of the server 3 according to the first embodiment described above. In this embodiment, drivers who meet the working conditions are extracted and presented to a user (such as a manager of a transportation company).

[0107] 10, the control unit 31A of the server 3A further includes a driver extraction unit 315 in addition to the configuration of the control unit 31 of the server 3. The storage unit 33A of the server 3A further includes a driver database 335 in addition to the configuration of the storage unit 33 of the server 3.

[0108] The driver database 335 includes information on the working conditions of the drivers, etc. Fig. 11 is a diagram showing an example of the driver database 335 according to this embodiment.

[0109] 11, the driver database 335 includes, for example, identification information (ID), driver name, on-duty time, working time, and rest time. In addition, the driver database 335 may include driver status information (such as the most recent continuous working hours and continuous rest time) and information related to skills (such as held qualifications).

[0110] The driver extraction unit 315 extracts driver candidates from the driver database 335 based on information about the driving movement section included in the route searched by the route search unit 312 (for example, total driving time). In this embodiment, the driver extraction unit 315 extracts drivers whose working conditions are compatible with the route. For example, the driver extraction unit 315 extracts drivers who can engage in transportation work along the route within the range of working conditions. The driver extraction unit 315 is an example of a driver extraction means in the claims.

[0111] In this embodiment, the information output unit 314 transmits driver information related to the driver candidates extracted by the driver extraction unit 315 to the user terminal 2. The display control unit 213 controls the display unit 25 to display the extracted driver candidates based on the driver information received by the information acquisition unit 211.

[0112] Next, an example of the operation of the information processing system according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to the sequence diagram of Fig. 12. Note that step S11 in Fig. 12 is performed after step S10 in Fig. 6B. That is, the following description assumes that the user has operated the user terminal 2 in advance, and that the driver extraction request screen W4 in Fig. 13 is displayed on the display unit 25 of the user terminal 2.

[0113] The information acquisition unit 211 of the user terminal 2 determines whether a driver extraction has been requested (step S11). Specifically, it determines whether button B5 shown in FIG. 13 has been pressed. If it is determined that button B5 has been pressed (step S11: Yes), the user terminal 2 transmits a driver extraction request to the server 3A (step S12). In the example of FIG. 13, route R2 including a car ferry section has been selected, so by pressing button B5, a request for a driver who can handle route R2 is transmitted to the server 3A. On the other hand, if it is not determined that button B5 has been pressed, the process waits (step S11: No).

[0114] Next, the information acquisition unit 311 of the server 3A receives the driver extraction request (step S13).

[0115] Next, the driver extraction unit 315 of the server 3A refers to the driver database 335 and extracts drivers who can drive the selected route included in the driver extraction request (step S14). In this embodiment, the determination is made based on whether route R2 conforms to the working conditions of each driver included in the driver database 335. Specifically, the determination is made based on whether the driver's working hours for the current month would exceed a threshold if route R2 were driven, whether the driver is in a state where he or she can immediately drive route R2, whether the route conforms to the ferry exception, etc.

[0116] Next, the information output unit 314 of the server 3A transmits driver information related to the extracted driver candidates to the user terminal 2 (step S15). In this embodiment, the driver information transmitted includes information about the extracted drivers (i.e., drivers who are capable of traveling the route) as well as information about drivers who are not extracted (i.e., drivers who are unable to travel the route). Note that only information about the extracted drivers may be transmitted.

[0117] Next, the information acquisition unit 211 of the user terminal 2 receives the driver information from the server 3A (step S16).

[0118] Next, the display control unit 213 of the user terminal 2 controls the display unit 25 to display the driver information received in step S16 (step S17).

[0119] FIG. 14 is an example of an output screen of driver information displayed on the display unit 25. As shown in FIG. 14, the output screen W5 displays, for each driver belonging to the transportation company, the route driving capability, on-duty time, working hours, rest time, etc. Driver AA's route driving capability is "not possible," and it is understood that he is unable to drive the route in question (route R2). In other words, driver AA is a driver who was not extracted in step S14. Drivers BB and CC's route driving capability is "possible," and it is understood that they are able to drive the route in question. In other words, drivers BB and CC are drivers extracted in step S14.

[0120] As described above, according to this embodiment, the user can easily find out which driver is suitable for the selected route.

[0121] In this embodiment, after a route is selected, the driver extraction unit 315 extracts a driver suitable for the selected route. However, this is not limiting; a driver may be selected first, and a route suitable for the selected driver may be extracted. In this case, for example, the information acquisition unit 211 receives a driver selection from the user before step S3, and the route extraction unit 313 extracts a route suitable for the selected driver's working conditions. Specifically, when the information acquisition unit 211 acquires information related to the driver selection, the driver extraction unit 315 refers to the driver database 335 to calculate the selected driver's actual working hours for this month and the remaining available working hours. For example, the driver extraction unit 315 calculates information such as the selected driver's ability to work 10 hours before boarding the ferry. Based on the calculated information, the route search unit 312 and the route extraction unit 313 search for and extract a route suitable for the conditions. The information output unit 314 transmits route information related to the selected route to the user terminal 2, and the route is displayed on the display unit 25. The user selects a route based on the displayed information.

[0122] (Third embodiment) An information processing system according to the third embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 15. Fig. 15 is a diagram showing an example of a route searched in the third embodiment. In this embodiment, a return route is further searched in addition to the first embodiment described above.

[0123] As shown in FIG. 15 , the route search unit 312 according to this embodiment searches for a route including an outbound route OR and a return route RR. The outbound route OR is a route from a departure point S to a destination G and corresponds to route R or route R′ in the first embodiment. The outbound route OR includes two driving sections D5 and D6 and one non-driving section ND3. The return route RR is a route from the destination G to the departure point S. The return route RR includes two driving sections D7 and D8 and one non-driving section ND4. The driving sections D7 and D8 are an example of a second driving section in the claims. The non-driving section ND4 is an example of a second non-driving section in the claims. The route search unit 312 is an example of a second search means in the claims. The return route RR may include one or more driving sections and one or more non-driving sections.

[0124] The return trip RR may be the same route as the outbound trip OR. More specifically, the driving trip section D7 may be the same section on the map as the driving trip section D6 but in the opposite direction of travel, the driving trip section D8 may be the same section on the map as the driving trip section D5 but in the opposite direction of travel, and the non-driving trip section ND4 may be the same section on the map as the non-driving trip section ND3 but in the opposite direction of travel.

[0125] On the other hand, the return journey RR may be a different route from the outbound journey OR. More specifically, the driving movement section D7 may be a different section on the map from the driving movement section D6, the driving movement section D8 may be a different section on the map from the driving movement section D5, and the non-driving movement section ND4 may be a different section on the map from the non-driving movement section ND3. In this way, at least one section of one or more non-driving movement sections of the outbound journey OR may be different from any of one or more non-driving movement sections of the return journey.

[0126] The return route RR may also be a driving route in which the driver drives the vehicle T over all sections from the destination G to the departure point S. For example, the route R2 shown in FIG. 8 may be the outbound route OR, and the route R1 may be the return route RR.

[0127] In this embodiment, in addition to extracting the outbound route, the route extraction unit 313 extracts a route from the return route searched by the route search unit 312, in which the second driving section satisfies a second driving section condition. The second driving section condition is an example of a second predetermined condition or a predetermined condition in the claims. Note that the route extraction unit 313 may extract all routes from the return route searched by the route search unit 312 without considering the second driving section condition.

[0128] The information output unit 314 transmits route information relating to a round trip route including an outbound route (suitable route) and a return route to the user terminal 2. In this embodiment, the information output unit 314 transmits route information relating to a round trip route in which the driving travel section satisfies the driving travel section condition and the second driving travel section satisfies the second driving travel section condition to the user terminal 2. The display control unit 213 controls the display unit 215 to display the return route RR together with the outbound route OR based on the route information.

[0129] Next, an example of the operation of the information processing system according to the third embodiment will be described. The operation of the information processing system according to this embodiment is similar to the operation of the information processing system 1 according to the first embodiment shown in the sequence diagrams of FIGS. 6A and 6B. The following mainly describes the differences from the first embodiment. In this embodiment, the input screen W6 of FIG. 16 is displayed instead of the input screen W1 of FIG. 7.

[0130] On the input screen W6 shown in FIG. 16, an item for "Round Trip Route" is displayed below the input field for "Arrival Date and Time." In this embodiment, in step S1, the user operates the check box on the left side of "Round Trip Route." When the check box is tapped or clicked to check it, "Round Trip Route" is enabled as a search condition. As a result, when the route search unit 312 of the server 3 searches for a route, a return route is searched in addition to the outbound route.

[0131] In this embodiment, in step S6, the route search unit 312 of the server 3 searches for a return route from the destination G to the departure point S in addition to the outbound route.

[0132] Next, the route extraction unit 313 extracts a route in which the second driving movement section satisfies the second driving movement section condition from among the searched return routes (step S7).

[0133] After steps S8 and S9, the display control unit 213 of the user terminal 2 controls the display unit 25 to display the outbound route and the return route on the map (step S10). The display content corresponds to, for example, the case where route R2 is the outbound route and route R3 is the return route on the output screen W2 of FIG. 8. In this case, unlike FIG. 8, both routes R2 and R3 may be highlighted. Furthermore, the outbound route and the return route may be displayed in different colors, patterns, or the like.

[0134] As described above, according to this embodiment, in addition to the outbound route OR from the departure point S to the destination G, a return route RR from the destination G to the departure point S is searched for. The return route RR may be the same route as the outbound route OR, or a different route. This allows for a variety of route guidance to be realized. It is also possible to present a route that satisfies the working conditions of a pre-designated driver's delivery work from the time he leaves the departure point until he returns to the departure point.

[0135] 15, the non-driving movement section ND3 may be a car ferry section, and the non-driving movement section ND4 may be a car ferry section different from the non-driving movement section ND3. This allows route guidance that makes efficient use of car ferries.

[0136] Furthermore, the second driving section condition satisfied by the second driving section included in the return journey may be the same as the driving section condition of the outbound journey, or may be different from the driving section condition of the outbound journey. Alternatively, a route may be extracted in which the round-trip route including the outbound journey and the return journey satisfies a predetermined condition. The predetermined condition is, for example, that the total required time for the round-trip journey is within six days. Furthermore, the route search unit 312 may search for a return route that passes through one or more waypoints. This makes it possible to efficiently present a delivery route that utilizes the return journey (i.e., a return trip) when, for example, there is luggage from the destination to a waypoint on the return journey.

[0137] Furthermore, the route search unit 312 of the server 3 searches for a route in which at least one of one or more non-driving sections included in the outbound route is different from any of one or more non-driving sections included in the return route. This makes it possible to present a route that flexibly corresponds to the driver's work information (working hours).

[0138] Furthermore, the return route may be searched for by a search means other than the route search unit 312 of the server 3.

[0139] <Fourth embodiment> In the first to third embodiments described above, the route search unit 312 searches for route candidates, and the route extraction unit 313 extracts suitable routes from the searched route candidates, whose driving sections satisfy predetermined conditions (driving section conditions). In contrast, in the fourth embodiment, the route search unit 312 searches for a route (suitable route) from the departure point to the destination, whose driving sections satisfy the driving section conditions.

[0140] In this embodiment, the route searched by the route search unit 312 is a route from the departure point to the destination, includes a driving movement section and a non-driving movement section, and is a route (suitable route) along which the driver arrives at the destination by vehicle and the driving movement section satisfies the driving movement section conditions. Also, in this embodiment, the route search unit 312 searches, as suitable routes, a first suitable route in which the non-driving movement section is a vehicle transportation section and a second suitable route in which the non-driving movement section is an autonomous driving section. That is, in this embodiment, it can be said that a route that satisfies the conditions is extracted as a result of the search by the route search unit 312. Therefore, in this embodiment, the route extraction unit 313 is not provided. The route search unit 312 in this embodiment is an example of a search means in the claims.

[0141] When searching, the route search unit 312 refers to the route network database 331, the vehicle transport section database 332, and the automated driving section database 333, as well as the working conditions database 334 as appropriate. The route search unit 312 may perform a search by changing the route network cost (e.g., the weighting of each node and link) in the route network database 331 according to the driving movement section conditions (e.g., "consider working conditions") specified by the user. For example, if it is necessary to reduce the time required for the driving movement section to satisfy the working conditions, the cost of the car ferry section is reduced and the search is performed. This makes it more likely that routes including car ferry sections will appear in the search results.

[0142] In this embodiment, the information output unit 314 outputs route information relating to the suitable route searched for by the route search unit 312 .

[0143] Next, an example of the operation of the information processing system 1 according to the fourth embodiment will be described with reference to the sequence diagrams of Figures 17A and 17B. In the following description, it is assumed that the user has operated the user terminal 2 in advance, and an input screen for route search is displayed on the display unit 25 of the user terminal 2.

[0144] Steps S21 to S25 are the same as steps S1 to S5 in the first embodiment described above, respectively.

[0145] Next, the route search unit 312 of the server 3 searches for a route from the departure point to the destination, where the driving section satisfies the specified driving section condition (suitable route), based on the received input information (step S26). The route search unit 312 generates route information for the suitable route obtained by the route search.

[0146] After step S6A, the information output unit 314 of the server 3 transmits the route information of the matching route found in step S6A to the user terminal 2 (step S27).

[0147] Steps S28 and S29 are similar to steps S9 and S10, respectively, of the first embodiment described above.

[0148] According to this embodiment, as in the first embodiment, it is possible to present to the user a route that includes a driving section and a non-driving section, and in which the driving section satisfies a desired condition. In addition, in this embodiment, for example, by specifying consideration of working conditions as a driving section condition, it is possible to take the working conditions of the driver into consideration when creating a delivery plan.

[0149] 3 and 10 are merely examples, and at least some of the components of the server 3 may be located within the user terminal 2. For example, the memory unit 33 and control unit 31 of the server 3 may be provided within the user terminal 2, and an information processing device or information display device may be configured that can provide the user with a route that includes a non-driving movement section and whose driving movement section satisfies desired conditions, using only the user terminal 2 without communication. In this case, the information output unit 212 may be omitted.

[0150] At least a part of the information processing system described in the above-described embodiment may be configured with hardware or software. In the case of a software configuration, a program that realizes at least a part of the functions of the information processing system may be stored on a recording medium such as a flexible disk or CD-ROM, and may be read and executed by a computer. The recording medium is not limited to removable media such as magnetic disks and optical disks, but may also be fixed recording media such as hard disk drives and memories.

[0151] In addition, a program that realizes at least part of the functions of the information processing system may be distributed via a communication line (including wireless communication) such as the Internet. Furthermore, the program may be encrypted, modulated, or compressed and distributed via a wired or wireless line such as the Internet, or stored on a recording medium.

[0152] Furthermore, the information processing system may be operated by one or more information processing devices. When using multiple information processing devices, one of the information processing devices may be a computer, and the computer may execute a predetermined program to realize the function as at least one means of the information processing system.

[0153] Based on the above description, a person skilled in the art may conceive additional effects and various modifications of the present invention, but the aspects of the present invention are not limited to the individual embodiments described above. Various additions, modifications, and partial deletions are possible within the scope of the conceptual idea and spirit of the present invention, which is derived from the content defined in the claims and their equivalents. [Explanation of symbols]

[0154] 1. Information Processing Systems 2. User terminal 21 Control section 211 Information Acquisition Department 212 Information output section 213 Display control unit 22 Communications Department 23 Memory section 24 Operation input section 25 Display section 3,3A Server 31, 31A Control unit 311 Information Acquisition Department 312 Route Search Unit 313 Path Extraction Unit 314 Information Output Unit 315 Driver Extraction Unit 32 Communications Department 33,33A storage section 331 Route Network Database 332 Vehicle Transport Section Database 333 Automated Driving Section Database 334 Working Conditions Database 335 Driver Database D1~D8 Operational movement section ND1~ND4 Non-operating travel section NW communication network OR Outbound R, R', R1~R3 ​​route RR Return

Claims

1. an acquisition means for acquiring a departure point and a destination point; a search means for searching for a route from the departure point to the destination, the route including a driving movement segment where a driver moves by driving a vehicle and a non-driving movement segment where the driver moves without driving the vehicle, the search means being a suitable route where the driver arrives at the destination by the vehicle and the driving movement segment satisfies a predetermined condition; an information output means for outputting route information relating to the suitable route; An information processing system comprising:

2. The search means further searches for a driving route along which the driver will drive the vehicle from the departure point to the destination, The information processing system according to claim 1 , wherein the information output means further outputs route information relating to the driving route.

3. The information processing system according to claim 1 , wherein the non-driving movement section of the suitable route is a vehicle transport section in which the vehicle is transported by a transport means, or an automatic driving section in which the vehicle is automatically driven.

4. the search means searches for, as the suitable route, a first suitable route in which the non-driving movement section is the vehicle transport section, and a second suitable route in which the non-driving movement section is the automatic driving section; 4. The information processing system according to claim 3, wherein the information output means outputs route information relating to the first suitable route and route information relating to the second suitable route.

5. The vehicle is a delivery vehicle on which cargo is loaded, 4. The information processing system according to claim 3, wherein the search means searches for the route as a delivery route based on a timetable of the transportation means.

6. The predetermined condition is: The sum of the distances of the driving travel segments is less than or equal to the sum of the distances of the non-driving travel segments, or The information processing system according to claim 1 , wherein a total required time for the driving movement segments is equal to or less than a total required time for the non-driving movement segments.

7. The information processing system according to claim 1 , wherein the predetermined condition is that a total required time or a total distance of the driving movement section is equal to or less than a threshold value.

8. The information processing system according to claim 1 , wherein the predetermined condition is a condition related to costs associated with the driving travel section.

9. The information processing system according to claim 1 , wherein the predetermined condition is that the driving travel section complies with working conditions for the driver.

10. The information processing system according to claim 1 , wherein the search means searches for the route when the acquisition means receives a search instruction from the user.

11. The system further includes a driver extraction means for extracting the driver candidates based on the information on the driving movement section, The information processing system according to claim 1 , wherein the information output means further outputs driver information relating to the driver candidates extracted by the driver extraction means.

12. further comprising a second search means for searching for a return route from the destination to the departure point; The information processing system according to claim 1 , wherein the information output means outputs route information relating to a round-trip route including the suitable route and the return route.

13. The information processing system of claim 12, wherein the return route includes a second driving travel segment in which the driver travels by driving the vehicle, and a second non-driving travel segment in which the driver travels without driving the vehicle.

14. The information processing system according to claim 13 , wherein the second driving movement section included in the return route satisfies a second predetermined condition.

15. Computer, a search means for searching for a route from a departure point to a destination, the route including a driving movement segment where a driver moves by driving a vehicle and a non-driving movement segment where the driver moves without driving the vehicle, the search means being a suitable route where the driver arrives at the destination by the vehicle and the driving movement segment satisfies a predetermined condition; an information output means for outputting route information relating to the suitable route; An information processing program that functions as a

16. An information processing system configured by a plurality of computers connected to each other in a communicable manner, an acquisition means for acquiring a departure point and a destination point; a search means for searching for a route from the departure point to the destination, the route including a driving movement segment where a driver moves by driving a vehicle and a non-driving movement segment where the driver moves without driving the vehicle, the search means being a suitable route where the driver arrives at the destination by the vehicle and the driving movement segment satisfies a predetermined condition; an information output means for outputting route information relating to the suitable route; In order to make the information processing system with An information processing program for causing at least one of the computers to function as at least one of the means.

17. By a plurality of information processing devices connected to each other so as to be able to communicate, an acquisition means for acquiring a departure point and a destination point; a search means for searching for a route from the departure point to the destination, the route including a driving movement segment where a driver moves by driving a vehicle and a non-driving movement segment where the driver moves without driving the vehicle, the search means being a suitable route where the driver arrives at the destination by the vehicle and the driving movement segment satisfies a predetermined condition; an information output means for outputting route information relating to the suitable route; In order to configure an information processing system having An information processing device comprising at least one of the above means.

18. Computer, A means of obtaining the origin and destination; a search means for searching for a route from the departure point to the destination, the route including a driving movement segment in which a driver moves by driving a vehicle and a non-driving movement segment in which the driver moves without driving the vehicle, the search means being a suitable route by which the driver arrives at the destination by the vehicle and the driving movement segment satisfies a predetermined condition; and an information output means for outputting route information relating to the suitable route; An information processing program that functions as a

19. An acquisition step of acquiring a departure point and a destination point; a step in which a search means searches for a route from the departure point to the destination, the route including a driving movement segment in which a driver moves by driving a vehicle and a non-driving movement segment in which the driver moves without driving the vehicle, the driver arriving at the destination by the vehicle, and the driving movement segment being a suitable route that satisfies a predetermined condition; an information output means for outputting route information relating to the suitable route; An information processing method comprising:

20. In order to make the information processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 14 function using a plurality of computers connected in a communicable manner, An information processing program for causing one of the computers to function as at least one of the means in the information processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 14.

21. An information processing program for causing a computer to function as at least one of the means in the information processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 14.

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