Information processing apparatus, information processing method, and information processing program

Abstract

To enable a driver who is driving and a person who wants to make a call to make a call in a time zone in which the driver who is driving can easily make a call.SOLUTION: An acquisition unit configured to acquire route information indicating a movement route of a vehicle to a destination, map information corresponding to the movement route, and current position information indicating a current position of the vehicle; An estimation unit configured to estimate a phone call recommendation time zone in which a phone call is recommended to a driver of the vehicle, the phone call recommendation time zone being a period of time equal to or longer than a predetermined time in a time zone in which an output of voice guidance to be output according to a current position of the vehicle is unnecessary in a travel period in which the vehicle travels along a travel route until the vehicle arrives at a destination; SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] Conventionally, information processing devices have been proposed that use map information to search for a route from a starting point to a destination set by a driver and provide guidance on a route based on the search results. Such information processing devices output voice guidance such as route guidance (right / left turn guidance, etc.), traffic information (surrounding congestion, traffic regulations, accident-prone areas, etc.), and recommendation information (recommendations for nearby facilities, etc.) based on the current location of the vehicle.

[0003] Among the information processing devices described above, there is known an information processing device that outputs advertising information at a predetermined timing and allows the navigation function to be used free of charge by applying the advertising fee. For example, there is known an information processing device that includes an output control means that causes an output means to output an audio advertisement at a predetermined timing that does not conflict with the output timing of audio guidance that is output when moving to a destination. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2017-58301 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, in the above-mentioned conventional technology, audio advertisements are output at predetermined timings that do not conflict with the timing of outputting audio guidance that is output when moving to a destination, i.e., at timings when audio guidance is not being output, but timings when audio guidance is not being output are not only suitable timings for outputting audio advertisements but also timings that are convenient for the driver who is driving to make a call, in other words, timings that are convenient for a call requester who wants to talk to the driver who is driving to make a call with the driver who is driving. However, in the above-mentioned conventional technology, no consideration is given at all to enabling the driver who is driving and the call requester to make a call at a time that is convenient for the driver who is driving.

[0006] The present disclosure provides an information processing device, an information processing method, and an information processing program that enable a driver who is driving and a person who wishes to make a call to communicate with each other at a time that is convenient for the driver who is driving. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The information processing device described in claim 1 is characterized by having an acquisition unit that acquires route information indicating the vehicle's travel route to a destination, map information corresponding to the travel route, and current location information indicating the current location of the vehicle; an estimation unit that, based on the route information, the map information, and the current location information, estimates a block of time of a predetermined length or more during the travel period of the vehicle traveling along the travel route during which voice guidance output according to the vehicle's current location is not necessary as a recommended call time period during which a call is recommended to the driver of the vehicle; and an identification unit that, based on the route information and the map information, identifies a section of the travel route during which voice guidance output is not necessary. The information processing device described in claim 2 is characterized by having an acquisition unit that acquires route information indicating the vehicle's travel route to the destination, map information corresponding to the travel route, and current location information indicating the current location of the vehicle; an estimation unit that, based on the route information, the map information, and the current location information, estimates a block of time of a predetermined length or more during the travel period during which the vehicle travels along the travel route until it arrives at the destination, excluding high driving load time periods when the driving load on the driver of the vehicle is high, as a recommended call time period during which a call is recommended to the driver of the vehicle; and an identification unit that, based on the route information and the map information, identifies a section on the travel route during which voice guidance output according to the current location of the vehicle is not necessary.

[0008] The information processing method described in claim 15 is characterized by including an acquisition process for acquiring route information indicating the vehicle's travel route to the destination, map information corresponding to the travel route, and current location information indicating the current location of the vehicle; an estimation process for estimating, based on the route information, the map information, and the current location information, a block of time of a predetermined duration or more within a time period during which the vehicle travels along the travel route during which voice guidance output according to the vehicle's current location is not required, as a recommended call time period during which a call is recommended to the driver of the vehicle; and an identification process for identifying, based on the route information and the map information, a section of the travel route during which voice guidance output is not required. The information processing method described in claim 16 is characterized by including an acquisition step of acquiring route information indicating a route of travel of the vehicle to the destination, map information corresponding to the route of travel, and current location information indicating a current location of the vehicle; an estimation step of estimating, based on the route information, the map information, and the current location information, a block of time of a predetermined length or more during the travel period of the vehicle traveling along the route of travel until the vehicle arrives at the destination, excluding a high driving load time period in which the driving load on the driver of the vehicle is high, as a recommended call time period in which a call is recommended to the driver of the vehicle; and an identification step of identifying, based on the route information and the map information, a section of the route of travel in which voice guidance output according to the current location of the vehicle is not required.

[0009] The information processing program described in claim 17 causes an information processing device to execute the following steps: an acquisition step of acquiring route information indicating the vehicle's travel route to the destination, map information corresponding to the travel route, and current location information indicating the current location of the vehicle; an estimation step of estimating, based on the route information, the map information, and the current location information, a block of time of a predetermined duration or more during which voice guidance output according to the vehicle's current location is not necessary during the travel period during which the vehicle travels along the travel route, as a recommended call time period during which a call is recommended to the driver of the vehicle; and an identification step of identifying, based on the route information and the map information, a section of the travel route during which voice guidance output is not necessary. The information processing program described in claim 18 causes an information processing device to execute the following steps: an acquisition step of acquiring route information indicating the vehicle's travel route to the destination, map information corresponding to the travel route, and current location information indicating the current location of the vehicle; an estimation step of estimating, based on the route information, the map information, and the current location information, a block of time of a predetermined length or more during the travel period during which the vehicle travels along the travel route until it arrives at the destination, excluding a high driving load time period in which the driving load on the driver of the vehicle is high, as a recommended call time period in which a call is recommended to the driver of the vehicle; and an identification step of identifying, based on the route information and the map information, a section of the travel route in which voice guidance output according to the current location of the vehicle is not necessary. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of an information processing system according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a schedule server according to the embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of an in-vehicle terminal device according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a terminal device according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of integrated schedule information according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining the call reservation acceptance process according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of integrated schedule information that reflects call reservations according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an information processing procedure by the schedule server according to the embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a hardware configuration diagram illustrating an example of a computer that realizes the functions of the information processing device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] Hereinafter, a mode for carrying out the present invention (hereinafter referred to as an embodiment) will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the present invention is not limited to the embodiment described below. Furthermore, in the description of the drawings, the same parts are given the same reference numerals.

[0012] (Embodiment) [1. Information Processing System Configuration] Generally, when talking to a driver while driving, there is a need to avoid calling the driver when the driver is under high driving stress, for example, when the vehicle is traveling on a section with many curves that requires careful driving. This is because there is a concern that calling the driver when the driver is under high driving stress may distract the driver and lead to an accident while driving. Furthermore, even if a call can be made with the driver at such a time, the voice guidance output to alert the driver may interrupt the conversation, which may often interrupt the conversation.

[0013] In response to this, the information processing system 1 estimates a recommended call time period during which the vehicle is traveling along a set travel route, during which the driver is recommended to make a call. The recommended call time period is a time period during which the driver can make a call relatively easily (a call-enabled time period). The information processing system 1 then provides a system that provides schedule information indicating the recommended call time period to a call requester and enables the call requester to make a call reservation with the driver during the recommended call time period. In general, a time period during which the output of voice guidance is unnecessary is considered to be a time period during which the driver is comfortable making a call, for example, because even if the driver is talking to someone while driving, the conversation is not interrupted by the output of voice guidance. Therefore, the information processing system 1 estimates, as the recommended call time period, a time period during which the output of voice guidance is unnecessary according to the current location of the vehicle. In this way, the information processing system 1 can enable the driver and the call requester to make a call during a time period during which the driver is comfortable making a call.

[0014] First, the configuration of an information processing system 1 according to an embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 1. Fig. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the information processing system 1 according to an embodiment. As shown in Fig. 1, the information processing system 1 includes a schedule server 100, an in-vehicle terminal device 200, and a terminal device 300. The schedule server 100, the in-vehicle terminal device 200, and the terminal device 300 are connected to each other via a predetermined network N so as to be able to communicate with each other via wired or wireless communication. Note that the information processing system 1 shown in Fig. 1 may include a plurality of schedule servers 100, a plurality of in-vehicle terminal devices 200, and a plurality of terminal devices 300.

[0015] The schedule server 100 is an information processing device that provides the driver's schedule information to a third party other than the driver (for example, a person wishing to make a call). Specifically, the schedule server 100 acquires information indicating recommended call time periods (hereinafter also referred to as recommended call time periods) in which calls are recommended for the vehicle driver from the in-vehicle terminal device 200. Next, the schedule server 100 generates schedule information indicating the recommended call time periods. Furthermore, when the schedule server 100 receives a request to send schedule information from the third-party terminal device 300, it transmits the generated schedule information to the terminal device 300. Furthermore, when the schedule server 100 receives a call reservation with the driver from the terminal device 300, it transmits the schedule information to the in-vehicle terminal device 200 together with information requesting approval of the call reservation. Furthermore, when the schedule server 100 receives information indicating approval of the call reservation from the in-vehicle terminal device 200, it generates schedule information that reflects the call reservation. Next, the schedule server 100 transmits the schedule information that reflects the call reservation to the terminal device 300 and the in-vehicle terminal device 200.

[0016] The in-vehicle terminal device 200 is an information processing device mounted on a vehicle. Specifically, the in-vehicle terminal device 200 is an information processing device equipped with a navigation function. For example, the in-vehicle terminal device 200 is a stationary navigation device installed in a vehicle. Note that the in-vehicle terminal device 200 is not limited to a navigation device, and may be a portable terminal device such as a smartphone used by a vehicle driver (hereinafter referred to as a driver). For example, the in-vehicle terminal device 200 may be a driver's terminal device on which an application that realizes a navigation function is installed. The in-vehicle terminal device 200 outputs voice guidance according to the current position of the vehicle. For example, the in-vehicle terminal device 200 outputs voice guidance such as route guidance (right / left turn guidance, etc.), traffic information (neighboring congestion, traffic restrictions, accident-prone areas, etc.), or recommendation information (recommendations for nearby facilities, etc.) according to the current position of the vehicle. In addition, the in-vehicle terminal device 200 estimates a time period when voice guidance output according to the current location of the vehicle is not required, and transmits the estimated time period when voice guidance output is not required to the schedule server 100 as a recommended time period for calling.

[0017] The terminal device 300 is an information processing device used by a third party other than the driver. The terminal device 300 is realized by, for example, a smartphone, a tablet terminal, a notebook PC (Personal Computer), a mobile phone, or a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant). The terminal device 300 may also be an information processing device mounted on a vehicle. The following describes a case where the third party is a user (hereinafter referred to as a call requester) who wishes to make a call with the driver. The terminal device 300 acquires the driver's schedule information from the schedule server 100 and displays the driver's schedule information on the screen. The terminal device 300 also accepts an input operation related to reserving a call with the driver during a recommended call time slot from the schedule information displayed on the screen, in accordance with an operation by the call requester. When the terminal device 300 accepts an input operation related to reserving a call with the driver, the terminal device 300 transmits information requesting a call reservation with the driver to the schedule server 100.

[0018] [2. Schedule Server Configuration] Next, the configuration of the schedule server 100 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 2. Fig. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the schedule server 100 according to the embodiment. As shown in Fig. 2, the schedule server 100 includes a communication unit 110, a storage unit 120, and a control unit 130.

[0019] The communication unit 110 is realized by, for example, a network interface card (NIC) etc. The communication unit 110 is connected to the in-vehicle terminal device 200 and the terminal device 300 via the network N in a wired or wireless manner, and is a communication interface that controls communication of information between the in-vehicle terminal device 200 and the terminal device 300.

[0020] The storage unit 120 is realized by, for example, a semiconductor memory element such as a RAM (Random Access Memory) or a flash memory, or a storage device such as a hard disk or an optical disk. Specifically, the storage unit 120 stores information (information processing programs and data) used for processing by the control unit 130.

[0021] 2, the storage unit 120 includes a schedule information storage unit 121. The schedule information storage unit 121 stores, for each in-vehicle terminal device 200, various types of information relating to the driver's schedule.

[0022] The control unit 130 is a controller, and is realized by, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), an MPU (Micro Processing Unit), an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), or the like, executing various programs (corresponding to an example of an information processing program) stored in a storage device inside the schedule server 100 using a storage area such as a RAM as a working area. In the example shown in FIG. 2, the control unit 130 has an acquisition unit 131, a reception unit 132, a generation unit 133, and a provision unit 134.

[0023] The acquisition unit 131 acquires information indicating a driving period during which the vehicle will travel the travel route, information indicating a recommended time zone for making a phone call during the driving period, and other schedule information of the driver from the in-vehicle terminal device 200 via the communication unit 110. When the acquisition unit 131 acquires the information indicating the driving period, the information indicating the recommended time zone for making a phone call, and other schedule information of the driver, the acquisition unit 131 stores the information indicating the driving period, the information indicating the recommended time zone for making a phone call, and other schedule information of the driver in association with driver identification information that can identify the driver in the schedule information storage unit 121.

[0024] Furthermore, the acquisition unit 131 acquires schedule information of the call requester from the terminal device 300 via the communication unit 110. When the acquisition unit 131 acquires the schedule information of the call requester, the acquisition unit 131 stores the schedule information of the call requester in the schedule information storage unit 121 in association with third-party identification information that can identify the call requester.

[0025] The reception unit 132 receives a transmission request for the driver's schedule information from the terminal device 300 via the communication unit 110. Specifically, the reception unit 132 receives the driver identification information as well as the transmission request for the schedule information of the driver identified by the driver identification information.

[0026] When the reception unit 132 receives a transmission request related to the driver's schedule information, the generation unit 133 refers to the schedule information storage unit 121 and acquires the schedule information of the driver identified by the driver identification information received by the reception unit 132 together with the transmission request. Specifically, the generation unit 133 acquires, as the driver's schedule information, information indicating a driving period, information indicating a recommended call time zone, and other schedule information of the driver. Next, based on the acquired driver's schedule information, the generation unit 133 generates first integrated schedule information that integrates the driving period during which the vehicle travels along the travel route, the recommended call time zone during the driving period, and other schedule information of the driver.

[0027] Furthermore, when the reception unit 132 receives a transmission request related to the driver's schedule information, the generation unit 133 refers to the schedule information storage unit 121 and acquires schedule information of the call requesting party who uses the terminal device 300 that is the sender of the transmission request received by the reception unit 132. Next, based on the acquired schedule information of the call requesting party, the generation unit 133 generates second integrated schedule information in which the first integrated schedule information and the schedule information of the call requesting party are displayed side by side.

[0028] Fig. 5 is a diagram showing an example of integrated schedule information according to the embodiment. In the example shown in Fig. 5, the generation unit 133 generates second integrated schedule information SC1 in which first integrated schedule information of Yamada Taro, who is a driver, and schedule information of Suzuki Hanako, who wishes to make a call, are displayed side by side. In the first integrated schedule information of Yamada Taro shown in Fig. 5, the time period "14:30 to 16:30" indicated by the "Driving" band indicates the driving period during which the vehicle is traveling along the travel route. In addition, the time period "15:00 to 16:00" indicated by the "Available for calls" band L1 indicates the recommended time period for making a call during the driving period.

[0029] The providing unit 134 provides the schedule information indicating the recommended call time slots generated by the generating unit 133 to an external device other than the schedule server 100. Specifically, the providing unit 134 transmits the second integrated schedule information generated by the generating unit 133 to the terminal device 300.

[0030] Furthermore, the reception unit 132 receives request information regarding a call reservation with the driver from the terminal device 300 via the communication unit 110. When the reception unit 132 receives the request information regarding a call reservation with the driver, the provision unit 134 transmits schedule information indicating a recommended call time period together with information requesting approval of the call reservation to the in-vehicle terminal device 200. Specifically, the provision unit 134 transmits the second integrated schedule information together with the information requesting approval of the call reservation to the in-vehicle terminal device 200.

[0031] Furthermore, the reception unit 132 receives information indicating approval of the call reservation by the driver from the in-vehicle terminal device 200 via the communication unit 110. When the reception unit 132 receives information indicating approval of the call reservation by the driver, the generation unit 133 generates second integrated schedule information that reflects the call reservation. The provision unit 134 transmits the second integrated schedule information that reflects the call reservation generated by the generation unit 133 to each of the terminal device 300 and the in-vehicle terminal device 200.

[0032] 3. Configuration of the in-vehicle terminal device Next, the configuration of the in-vehicle terminal device 200 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 3. Fig. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the in-vehicle terminal device 200 according to the embodiment. As shown in Fig. 3, the in-vehicle terminal device 200 has a communication unit 210, a storage unit 220, a control unit 230, a sensor unit 240, an input unit 250, an audio output unit 260, and a display unit 270.

[0033] The communication unit 210 is realized by, for example, a NIC etc. The communication unit 210 is connected to the schedule server 100 and the terminal device 300 via the network N by wire or wirelessly, and is a communication interface that controls communication of information between the schedule server 100 and the terminal device 300.

[0034] The storage unit 220 is realized by, for example, a semiconductor memory element such as a RAM or a flash memory, or a storage device such as a hard disk or an optical disk. For example, the storage unit 220 stores information (information processing programs and data) used for processing by the control unit 230.

[0035] 3, the storage unit 220 includes a map information storage unit 221 and a driving information storage unit 222. The map information storage unit 221 stores various types of information related to maps. The driving information storage unit 222 stores various types of information related to vehicle driving. Specifically, the driving information storage unit 222 stores route information indicating the vehicle's travel route to the destination. For example, when a route is set in the navigation function of the in-vehicle terminal device 200, the driving information storage unit 222 stores route information indicating a travel route selected by the driver from among travel routes proposed to the driver by the route guidance unit 231. The driving information storage unit 222 also stores driving history information indicating the vehicle's driving history.

[0036] The control unit 230 is a controller, and is realized by, for example, a CPU, an MPU, an ASIC, an FPGA, or the like, executing various programs (corresponding to an example of an information processing program) stored in a storage device inside the in-vehicle terminal device 200 using a storage area such as a RAM as a work area. In the example shown in FIG. 3 , the control unit 230 has a route guidance unit 231, an acquisition unit 232, an identification unit 233, an estimation unit 234, a transmission unit 235, a reception unit 236, an output control unit 237, and a reception unit 238.

[0037] The route guidance unit 231 executes the navigation function of the in-vehicle terminal device 200. Specifically, when the route guidance unit 231 receives a route setting from the driver, it searches for a route to the destination set by the driver. For example, the route guidance unit 231 searches for a route from the departure point set by the driver to the destination set by the driver. For example, the route guidance unit 231 acquires information about the departure point and destination corresponding to an input operation received by the input unit 250. Next, when the route guidance unit 231 receives the information about the departure point and the destination, it refers to the map information storage unit 221 to acquire map information. Next, the route guidance unit 231 searches for a route from the departure point to the destination using the map information. Note that when the route guidance unit 231 receives only a destination setting from the driver, it may search for a travel route for the vehicle using the current position of the vehicle at the time of starting the search as the departure point. Furthermore, when the route guidance unit 231 searches for a route, it may associate information about the departure point, the destination, and the travel route corresponding to the search result and store them in the travel information storage unit 222.

[0038] Furthermore, when the route guidance unit 231 searches for a travel route, it proposes the search result to the driver. Furthermore, when the driver selects the proposed travel route, the route guidance unit 231 controls the audio output unit 260 to output audio guidance regarding route guidance according to the travel route selected by the driver.

[0039] The acquisition unit 232 acquires route information indicating a route of travel of the vehicle to the destination. Specifically, the acquisition unit 232 refers to the travel information storage unit 222 and acquires route information indicating a route that has been selected by the driver and is currently set from among the routes searched by the route guidance unit 231.

[0040] Furthermore, the acquisition unit 232 acquires map information corresponding to the travel route. Specifically, the acquisition unit 232 refers to the map information storage unit 221 and acquires map information corresponding to the travel route selected by the driver from among the travel routes searched by the route guidance unit 231. For example, the acquisition unit 232 acquires map information including the travel route selected by the driver.

[0041] Furthermore, the acquisition unit 232 acquires current position information indicating the current position of the vehicle. Specifically, the acquisition unit 232 acquires positioning data generated by the GNSS sensor of the sensor unit 240 from the GNSS sensor of the sensor unit 240. Next, the acquisition unit 232 acquires latitude information and longitude information indicating the current position of the vehicle from the acquired positioning data as current position information of the vehicle.

[0042] The identification unit 233 identifies a section of the travel route where voice guidance output is not required, based on the route information, map information, and current location information. Specifically, the identification unit 233 identifies a section between two adjacent voice guidance output points on the travel route as a section where voice guidance output is not required. For example, the identification unit 233 identifies each voice guidance output point on the travel route, based on the route information and map information. For example, the identification unit 233 identifies an output point of voice guidance related to route guidance, such as right / left turn guidance, based on the route information and map information. Furthermore, the identification unit 233 identifies an output point of voice guidance related to traffic information, such as traffic regulations and accident-prone areas, based on the route information and map information. Furthermore, the identification unit 233 identifies an output point of voice guidance related to recommendation information, such as recommendations for nearby facilities, based on the route information and map information. Subsequently, the identification unit 233 identifies each voice guidance output point on the travel route along which the vehicle will travel, based on the current location information.

[0043] Next, when the identification unit 233 has identified each output point of voice guidance on the travel route along which the vehicle will travel, it identifies a section between two adjacent output points of voice guidance on the travel route along which the vehicle will travel. For example, when the identification unit 233 has identified the first output point of voice guidance (first output point) and the second output point of voice guidance (second output point) on the travel route along which the vehicle will travel, it identifies the section between the first output point and the second output point as the section between the two adjacent output points of voice guidance. Furthermore, when the identification unit 233 has identified the second output point of voice guidance (second output point) and the third output point of voice guidance (third output point) on the travel route along which the vehicle will travel, it identifies the section between the second output point and the third output point as the section between the two adjacent output points of voice guidance.

[0044] The estimation unit 234 estimates a recommended call time period during which a call is recommended to the vehicle driver, during the travel period during which the vehicle travels along the travel route, based on the route information, map information, and current location information. Specifically, the estimation unit 234 estimates, as the recommended call time period, a time period during which the vehicle travels along the travel route during which the output of voice guidance is not required, based on the route information, map information, and current location information. More specifically, the estimation unit 234 estimates an estimated arrival time at which the vehicle will arrive at the section identified by the identification unit 233 for which the output of voice guidance is not required. Next, the estimation unit 234 estimates an estimated passage time at which the vehicle will pass through the section identified by the identification unit 233 for which the output of voice guidance is not required. Next, the estimation unit 234 estimates the time period from the estimated estimated arrival time to the estimated passing time to be a time period during which the output of voice guidance is not required.

[0045] The estimation unit 234 estimates an estimated arrival time at which the vehicle will arrive at a section between two adjacent voice guidance output points identified by the identification unit 233. For example, the estimation unit 234 estimates an estimated arrival time at which the vehicle will arrive at a start point of a section between two adjacent voice guidance output points identified by the identification unit 233. For example, the estimation unit 234 estimates a travel distance from the current position of the vehicle to the start point of the section identified by the identification unit 233 based on route information, map information, and current position information. Next, the estimation unit 234 estimates a travel time from the current position to the start point of the section (hereinafter also referred to as a first travel time) by dividing the estimated travel distance by the vehicle's travel speed (e.g., average speed, etc.). Furthermore, when the estimation unit 234 estimates the first travel time, it estimates an estimated arrival time at which the vehicle will arrive at the start point of the section by adding the first travel time to the current time.

[0046] Next, the estimation unit 234 estimates an estimated time at which the vehicle will pass through the section identified by the identification unit 233 where voice guidance output is not required. More specifically, the estimation unit 234 estimates an estimated time at which the vehicle will pass through the section between two adjacent voice guidance output points identified by the identification unit 233. For example, the estimation unit 234 estimates an estimated time at which the vehicle will pass through an end point of the section between two adjacent voice guidance output points identified by the identification unit 233. For example, the estimation unit 234 estimates a travel distance from the current position of the vehicle to the end point of the section identified by the identification unit 233 based on the route information, map information, and current position information. Next, the estimation unit 234 estimates a travel time from the current position to the end point of the section (hereinafter also referred to as a second travel time) by dividing the estimated travel distance by the vehicle's travel speed (e.g., average speed, etc.). Furthermore, when the estimation unit 234 estimates the second travel time, it adds the second travel time to the current time to estimate the predicted passing time at which the vehicle will pass through the end point of the section.

[0047] The transmission unit 235 transmits information indicating the recommended call time zone estimated by the estimation unit 234 to the schedule server 100 via the communication unit 210. Specifically, the transmission unit 235 transmits information indicating the time zone during which voice guidance output is unnecessary, estimated by the estimation unit 234, as the information indicating the recommended call time zone. For example, the transmission unit 235 transmits information indicating the driving period during which the vehicle will travel the travel route, information indicating the recommended call time zone during the driving period, and other schedule information of the driver to the schedule server 100.

[0048] The receiving unit 236 receives schedule information indicating a recommended call time period together with information requesting approval of the call reservation from the schedule server 100 via the communication unit 210. Specifically, the receiving unit 236 receives second integrated schedule information from the schedule server 100 together with information requesting approval of the call reservation.

[0049] The output control unit 237 controls the display unit 270 to display the schedule information indicating the recommended call time slot received by the receiving unit 236. Specifically, the output control unit 237 controls the display unit 270 to display the second integrated schedule information received by the receiving unit 236. The output control unit 237 also controls the display unit 270 to display information requesting approval of the call reservation.

[0050] The reception unit 238 receives an input operation regarding approval of the call reservation from the driver via the input unit 250. When the reception unit 238 receives an input operation regarding approval of the call reservation from the driver, the reception unit 238 transmits information indicating the driver's approval of the call reservation to the schedule server 100.

[0051] Furthermore, the receiving unit 236 receives second integrated schedule information that reflects the call reservations from the schedule server 100 via the communication unit 210. The output control unit 237 controls the display unit 270 to display the second integrated schedule information that reflects the call reservations received by the receiving unit 236.

[0052] The sensor unit 240 includes various sensors. For example, the sensor unit 240 includes a GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System). The GNSS sensor receives radio waves including positioning data transmitted from navigation satellites using the GNSS. The positioning data is used to detect the absolute position of the vehicle from latitude and longitude information, etc. The GNSS used may be, for example, a GPS (Global Positioning System), or another system. The sensor unit 240 outputs the positioning data generated by the GNSS sensor to the control unit 230.

[0053] The input unit 250 receives various operations input from the driver. For example, the input unit 250 may receive various operations from the driver via a display surface (for example, the display unit 270) using a touch panel function. For example, the input unit 250 receives input operations of information relating to a departure point and a destination from the driver. The input unit 250 may also receive various operations from buttons provided on the in-vehicle terminal device 200 or a keyboard or mouse connected to the in-vehicle terminal device 200.

[0054] The input unit 250 also includes a voice recognition function (for example, a microphone) and recognizes the driver's voice. The input unit 250 may accept various operations from the driver using the driver's voice.

[0055] The audio output unit 260 includes a speaker, converts a digital audio signal input from the control unit 230 into an analog audio signal by D / A (Digital / Analog) conversion, and outputs audio corresponding to the analog audio signal from the speaker. Specifically, the audio output unit 260 outputs audio guidance according to the current position of the vehicle. For example, under the control of the control unit 230, the audio output unit 260 outputs audio guidance such as route guidance (right / left turn guidance, etc.), traffic information (surrounding congestion, traffic regulations, accident-prone areas, etc.), or recommendation information (recommendations for nearby facilities, etc.) according to the current position of the vehicle.

[0056] The display unit 270 is a display screen realized by, for example, a liquid crystal display or an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display, and is a display device for displaying various types of information. The display unit 270 displays various types of information under the control of the control unit 230. For example, the display unit 270 displays a travel route and map information proposed by the route guidance unit 231. The display unit 270 also displays schedule information received by the receiving unit 236 under the control of the output control unit 135. Note that if a touch panel is employed in the in-vehicle terminal device 200, the input unit 250 and the display unit 270 are integrated. Note that in the following description, the display unit 270 may also be referred to as a screen.

[0057] [4. Terminal Device Configuration] Next, the configuration of a terminal device according to an embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 4. Fig. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a terminal device according to an embodiment. As shown in Fig. 4, the terminal device 300 includes a communication unit 310, a storage unit 320, a control unit 330, an input unit 340, and an output unit 350.

[0058] The communication unit 310 is realized by, for example, an NIC etc. The communication unit 310 is connected to the schedule server 100 and the in-vehicle terminal device 200 via the network N by wire or wirelessly, and is a communication interface that controls communication of information between the schedule server 100 and the in-vehicle terminal device 200.

[0059] The storage unit 320 is realized by, for example, a semiconductor memory element such as a RAM or a flash memory, or a storage device such as a hard disk or an optical disk. For example, the storage unit 320 stores information (information processing programs and data) used for processing by the control unit 330.

[0060] The control unit 330 is a controller, and is realized by, for example, a CPU, an MPU, an ASIC, an FPGA, or the like, executing various programs (corresponding to an example of an information processing program) stored in a storage device inside the terminal device 300 using a storage area such as a RAM as a work area. In the example shown in FIG. 4, the control unit 330 has a reception unit 331, a transmission unit 332, a reception unit 333, and an output control unit 334.

[0061] The reception unit 331 receives, via the input unit 340, an input operation from the person wishing to make a call regarding a request to display the driver's schedule information.

[0062] When the receiving unit 331 receives an input operation related to a display request for the driver's schedule information, the transmitting unit 332 transmits a transmission request for the driver's schedule information to the schedule server 100. Specifically, the transmitting unit 332 transmits, together with the driver identification information, a transmission request for the schedule information of the driver identified by the driver identification information to the schedule server 100.

[0063] The receiving unit 333 receives schedule information indicating recommended call time periods from the schedule server 100 via the communication unit 310. Specifically, the receiving unit 333 receives second integrated schedule information from the schedule server 100.

[0064] The output control unit 334 controls the output unit 350 to display the schedule information indicating the recommended call time slots received by the receiving unit 333. Specifically, the output control unit 334 controls the output unit 350 to display the second integrated schedule information received by the receiving unit 333. In FIG. 5, the output unit 350 displays the second integrated schedule information SC1 under the control of the output control unit 334.

[0065] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a call reservation acceptance process according to the embodiment. In the example shown in FIG. 6, the output unit 350, under the control of the output control unit 334, displays a frame F1, which allows the call requester to select a desired time period for a call reservation with the driver, superimposed on the second integrated schedule information SC1. The width of the frame F1 is variable, and the call requester can select a predetermined time period, such as 30 minutes or 1 hour, by changing the width of the frame F1. The position of the frame F1 is also variable, and the call requester can freely move the position of the frame F1 along the time axis of the second integrated schedule information SC1. The reception unit 331 accepts an input operation from the call requester via the input unit 340 to move the position of the frame F1 along the time axis of the second integrated schedule information SC1. The reception unit 331 may also accept an input operation from the call requester via the input unit 340 to change the width of the frame F1. In this manner, the reception unit 331 accepts an input operation from the call requester regarding a time period for a call reservation with the driver. The reception unit 331 also receives an input operation from the call requester to confirm a time period during which the call requester desires to make a call reservation with the driver. For example, the reception unit 331 may receive an input operation from the call requester to tap or click on a part of the box F1 as an input operation to confirm a time period during which the call requester desires to make a call reservation with the driver. When the reception unit 331 receives an input operation from the call requester to confirm a time period during which the call requester desires to make a call reservation with the driver, the reception unit 331 transmits request information regarding the call reservation with the driver to the schedule server 100.

[0066] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of integrated schedule information reflecting a call reservation according to the embodiment. The receiving unit 333 receives second integrated schedule information reflecting the call reservation from the schedule server 100 via the communication unit 310. The output control unit 334 controls the output unit 350 to display the second integrated schedule information reflecting the call reservation received by the receiving unit 333. The output unit 350 displays the second integrated schedule information SC2 reflecting the call reservation under the control of the output control unit 334. In FIG. 7, the output unit 350 displays a band A1 indicating a time period corresponding to the call reservation superimposed on the second integrated schedule information SC2 under the control of the output control unit 334. The band A1 is displayed superimposed on both the first integrated schedule information of Taro Yamada, the driver, and the schedule information of Hanako Suzuki, the call requester.

[0067] The input unit 340 accepts various operations from the person wishing to make a call. For example, the input unit 340 may accept various operations from the person wishing to make a call via a display screen (e.g., the output unit 350) using a touch panel function. The input unit 340 may also accept various operations from buttons provided on the terminal device 300 or a keyboard or mouse connected to the terminal device 300.

[0068] The output unit 350 is a display screen realized by, for example, a liquid crystal display, an organic EL display, or the like, and is a display device for displaying various types of information. The output unit 350 displays various types of information under the control of the control unit 330. For example, the output unit 350 displays schedule information received by the receiving unit 333 under the control of the output control unit 334. Note that if a touch panel is employed in the terminal device 300, the input unit 340 and the output unit 350 are integrated. In the following description, the output unit 350 may also be referred to as a screen.

[0069] [5. Information Processing Flow] Next, the procedure of information processing by the schedule server 100 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 8. Fig. 8 is a flowchart showing the procedure of information processing by the schedule server 100 according to the embodiment.

[0070] In the example shown in FIG. 8, the reception unit 132 of the schedule server 100 determines whether a transmission request for schedule information has been received from the terminal device 300 (step S1). If the reception unit 132 determines that a transmission request for schedule information has not been received from the terminal device 300 (step S1; No), the process ends. On the other hand, if the reception unit 132 determines that a transmission request for schedule information has been received from the terminal device 300 (step S1; Yes), the generation unit 133 of the schedule server 100 acquires information regarding the driving period during which the vehicle travels along the travel route, the recommended call time zone during the driving period, and other schedules of the driver (step S2). Based on the acquired information, the generation unit 133 generates integrated schedule information that integrates the driving period during which the vehicle travels along the travel route, the recommended call time zone during the driving period, and other schedules of the driver (step S3). The provision unit 134 of the schedule server 100 transmits the schedule information generated by the generation unit 133 to the terminal device 300 (step S4).

[0071] The reception unit 132 also determines whether request information regarding a call reservation with the driver has been received from the terminal device 300 (step S5). If the reception unit 132 determines that request information regarding a call reservation with the driver has not been received from the terminal device 300 (step S5; No), the process ends. On the other hand, if the reception unit 132 determines that request information regarding a call reservation with the driver has been received from the terminal device 300 (step S5; Yes), the provision unit 134 transmits the integrated schedule information together with information requesting approval of the call reservation to the in-vehicle terminal device 200 (step S6).

[0072] The reception unit 132 also determines whether or not information indicating approval of the call reservation has been received from the in-vehicle terminal device 200 (step S7). If the reception unit 132 determines that information indicating approval of the call reservation has been received from the in-vehicle terminal device 200 (step S7; Yes), the generation unit 133 generates integrated schedule information that reflects the call reservation (step S8). The provision unit 134 transmits the integrated schedule information that reflects the call reservation generated by the generation unit 133 to each of the terminal device 300 and the in-vehicle terminal device 200 (step S9).

[0073] On the other hand, if the reception unit 132 determines that it has not received information indicating approval of the call reservation from the in-vehicle terminal device 200 (step S7; No), it sends a notification to the terminal device 300 indicating that the call reservation has not been approved (step S10).

[0074] [6. Modifications] The processing according to the above-described embodiment may be implemented in various different forms other than the above embodiment.

[0075] [6-1. Estimation of time periods when vehicles will not move] In the above-described embodiment, the case has been described in which the identification unit 233 identifies a section between two adjacent voice guidance output points on the travel route as a section in which voice guidance output is not required, but the section that the identification unit 233 identifies as a section in which voice guidance output is not required is not limited to this. Specifically, the identification unit 233 identifies a section in the travel route in which the vehicle does not proceed as a section in which voice guidance output is not required. Generally, while the vehicle is traveling in a section in which the vehicle does not proceed, there is little change in the position of the vehicle, and therefore it can be estimated that this is a time period in which voice guidance is not output (i.e., voice guidance output is not required).

[0076] [6-1-1. Estimating the time of day when you will be stuck in traffic] Generally, a congested section is considered to be a section where the vehicle cannot proceed. The identification unit 233 identifies a congested section on the travel route as a section where the output of voice guidance is not required. Specifically, the acquisition unit 232 acquires congestion information around the current position of the vehicle from, for example, a server that manages traffic information via the communication unit 210. The identification unit 233 identifies a congested section on the travel route to be traveled based on the route information, map information, current position information, and congestion information acquired by the acquisition unit 232.

[0077] The estimation unit 234 estimates an estimated arrival time at which the vehicle will arrive at the congestion section identified by the identification unit 233. For example, the estimation unit 234 estimates an estimated arrival time at which the vehicle will arrive at the start point of the congestion section identified by the identification unit 233. For example, the estimation unit 234 estimates a travel distance from the current position of the vehicle to the start point of the congestion section identified by the identification unit 233 based on route information, map information, and current position information. Next, the estimation unit 234 estimates a travel time from the current position to the start point of the congestion section (hereinafter also referred to as a third travel time) by dividing the estimated travel distance by the vehicle's travel speed (e.g., average speed, etc.). Furthermore, when the estimation unit 234 estimates the third travel time, it estimates an estimated arrival time at which the vehicle will arrive at the start point of the congestion section by adding the third travel time to the current time.

[0078] Next, the estimation unit 234 estimates the predicted time at which the vehicle will pass through the congestion section identified by the identification unit 233. For example, the estimation unit 234 estimates the predicted time at which the vehicle will pass through the end point of the congestion section identified by the identification unit 233. For example, the estimation unit 234 estimates a travel time (hereinafter also referred to as a fourth travel time) required for the vehicle to travel through the congestion section based on the congestion information. Next, when the estimation unit 234 estimates the fourth travel time, the estimation unit 234 estimates the predicted time at which the vehicle will pass through the end point of the congestion section by adding the fourth travel time to the predicted arrival time at which the vehicle will arrive at the end point of the congestion section. Next, the estimation unit 234 estimates that the time period from the estimated predicted arrival time to the predicted passing time is a time period during which voice guidance output is not required.

[0079] [6-1-2. Estimating the time of day when vehicles will pass through congested intersections] In general, a section passing through a congested intersection is considered to be a section where the vehicle does not proceed. The identification unit 233 identifies a specific intersection on the travel route as a section where the output of voice guidance is not required. Specifically, the acquisition unit 232 acquires statistical information (hereinafter also referred to as statistical information) regarding the required passing time for each intersection with traffic lights from, for example, a server that manages traffic information, via the communication unit 210. For example, the acquisition unit 232 may acquire statistical information for each traveling direction of the vehicle as the statistical information regarding the required passing time for each intersection. Based on the route information, map information, current position information, and statistical information acquired by the acquisition unit 232, the identification unit 233 identifies, as the specific intersection, an intersection on the travel route from which the required time to pass the intersection exceeds a predetermined time.

[0080] The estimation unit 234 estimates an estimated arrival time at which the vehicle will arrive at the specific intersection identified by the identification unit 233. For example, the estimation unit 234 estimates an estimated arrival time at which the vehicle will arrive at the specific intersection identified by the identification unit 233. For example, the estimation unit 234 estimates a travel distance from the current position of the vehicle to the specific intersection identified by the identification unit 233 based on route information, map information, and current position information. Next, the estimation unit 234 estimates a travel time from the current position to the specific intersection (hereinafter also referred to as a fifth travel time) by dividing the estimated travel distance by the vehicle's travel speed (e.g., average speed, etc.). Furthermore, when the estimation unit 234 estimates the fifth travel time, it estimates an estimated arrival time at which the vehicle will arrive at the specific intersection by adding the fifth travel time to the current time.

[0081] Next, the estimation unit 234 estimates the predicted passing time at which the vehicle will pass through the specific intersection identified by the identification unit 233. For example, the estimation unit 234 estimates the required passing time for the vehicle to pass through the specific intersection identified by the identification unit 233 based on statistical information. For example, the estimation unit 234 acquires a statistical value of the required passing time at the specific intersection as the required passing time for the vehicle to pass through the specific intersection identified by the identification unit 233. Furthermore, when the estimation unit 234 estimates the required passing time, the estimation unit 234 estimates the predicted passing time at which the vehicle will pass through the specific intersection identified by the identification unit 233 by adding the required passing time to the predicted arrival time at the specific intersection. Next, the estimation unit 234 estimates that the time period from the estimated predicted arrival time to the predicted passing time is a time period during which voice guidance output is not required.

[0082] [6-2. Estimation of time periods when vehicles will travel in automated driving sections] In the above-described embodiment, the case has been described in which the identification unit 233 identifies a section between two adjacent voice guidance output points on a travel route as a section where voice guidance output is not required, but the section that the identification unit 233 identifies as a section where voice guidance output is not required is not limited to this. Specifically, the identification unit 233 identifies an autonomous driving section on a travel route as a section where voice guidance output is not required. Generally, while a vehicle is traveling in an autonomous driving section, the driver is not driving, and therefore it can be estimated that this is a time period where voice guidance output such as route guidance and traffic information is not required.

[0083] The identification unit 233 identifies an autonomous driving section on the travel route as a section where voice guidance output is not required. Specifically, the acquisition unit 232 acquires map information indicating the autonomous driving section by referring to the map information storage unit 221. The identification unit 233 identifies the autonomous driving section on the travel route to be traveled, based on the route information, map information, and current position information acquired by the acquisition unit 232.

[0084] The estimation unit 234 estimates the predicted arrival time at which the vehicle will arrive at the autonomous driving section identified by the identification unit 233. For example, the estimation unit 234 estimates the predicted arrival time at which the vehicle will arrive at the start point of the autonomous driving section identified by the identification unit 233. For example, the estimation unit 234 estimates the travel distance from the current position of the vehicle to the start point of the autonomous driving section identified by the identification unit 233 based on route information, map information, and current position information. Next, the estimation unit 234 estimates the travel time from the current position to the start point of the autonomous driving section (hereinafter also referred to as the sixth travel time) by dividing the estimated travel distance by the vehicle's travel speed (e.g., average speed, etc.). Furthermore, if the estimation unit 234 estimates the sixth travel time, it estimates the predicted arrival time at which the vehicle will arrive at the start point of the autonomous driving section by adding the sixth travel time to the current time.

[0085] The estimation unit 234 estimates the predicted time at which the vehicle will pass through the autonomous driving section identified by the identification unit 233. For example, the estimation unit 234 estimates the predicted time at which the vehicle will pass through the end point of the autonomous driving section identified by the identification unit 233. For example, the estimation unit 234 estimates the travel distance from the current position of the vehicle to the end point of the autonomous driving section identified by the identification unit 233 based on route information, map information, and current position information. Next, the estimation unit 234 estimates the travel time from the current position to the end point of the autonomous driving section (hereinafter also referred to as the seventh travel time) by dividing the estimated travel distance by the vehicle's travel speed (e.g., average speed, etc.). Furthermore, if the estimation unit 234 estimates the seventh travel time, it estimates the predicted time at which the vehicle will pass through the end point of the autonomous driving section by adding the seventh travel time to the current time. Next, the estimation unit 234 estimates the time period from the estimated predicted arrival time to the predicted passage time as a time period during which voice guidance output is not required.

[0086] [6-3. Estimating the time of day when driving on familiar roads] Alternatively, the identification unit 233 may identify a road that the driver of the vehicle is familiar with as a known road section for which voice guidance output is not required. Specifically, the identification unit 233 identifies a familiar road on the travel route on which the vehicle has traveled a predetermined number of times or more in the past as a known road section for which voice guidance output is not required. Generally, when the vehicle is traveling on a familiar road, the driver is familiar with the road, and therefore it can be estimated that this is a time period for which voice guidance output is not required.

[0087] The identification unit 233 identifies a known road section on the travel route as a section for which voice guidance output is not required. Specifically, the route guidance unit 231 of the in-vehicle terminal device 200 refers to the travel history information stored in the travel information storage unit 222, and controls the voice output unit 260 so as not to output voice guidance while the vehicle is traveling on a familiar road on which the vehicle has traveled a predetermined number of times or more in the past. When the travel route to be traveled includes a familiar road on which the vehicle has traveled a predetermined number of times or more in the past, the identification unit 233 identifies a known road section corresponding to the familiar road.

[0088] The estimation unit 234 estimates an estimated arrival time at which the vehicle will arrive at the known road section identified by the identification unit 233. For example, the estimation unit 234 estimates an estimated arrival time at which the vehicle will arrive at the start point of the known road section identified by the identification unit 233. For example, the estimation unit 234 estimates a travel distance from the current position of the vehicle to the start point of the known road section identified by the identification unit 233 based on route information, map information, and current position information. Next, the estimation unit 234 estimates a travel time from the current position to the start point of the known road section (hereinafter also referred to as a seventh travel time) by dividing the estimated travel distance by the vehicle's travel speed (e.g., average speed, etc.). Furthermore, when the estimation unit 234 estimates the seventh travel time, it estimates an estimated arrival time at which the vehicle will arrive at the start point of the known road section by adding the seventh travel time to the current time.

[0089] The estimation unit 234 estimates the predicted time at which the vehicle will pass through the known road section identified by the identification unit 233. For example, the estimation unit 234 estimates the predicted time at which the vehicle will pass through the end point of the known road section identified by the identification unit 233. For example, the estimation unit 234 estimates the travel distance from the current position of the vehicle to the end point of the known road section identified by the identification unit 233 based on the route information, map information, and current position information. Next, the estimation unit 234 estimates the travel time from the current position to the end point of the known road section (hereinafter also referred to as the eighth travel time) by dividing the estimated travel distance by the vehicle's travel speed (e.g., average speed, etc.). Furthermore, if the estimation unit 234 estimates the eighth travel time, it adds the seventh travel time to the current time to estimate the predicted time at which the vehicle will pass the end point of the known road section. Next, the estimation unit 234 estimates the time period from the estimated predicted arrival time to the predicted passing time as a time period during which voice guidance output is not required.

[0090] [6-4. Other] In any of the above-described embodiments and modifications, the estimation unit 234 may exclude core times (mealtimes) during which recommendation information is output from the time periods during which voice guidance output is not required.

[0091] 6-5. Estimation of time periods when the driver's workload is low In the above-described embodiment, the estimation unit 234 has been described as estimating, as the recommended call time period, a time period during which the vehicle is traveling along the travel route during which voice guidance output is not required, but the time period estimated by the estimation unit 234 as the recommended call time period is not limited to this.

[0092] Generally, a time period during which a vehicle is traveling through a high driving load section where the driving load on the vehicle driver is high is considered to be a time period during which calling the driver is not recommended because the driver needs to concentrate on driving. On the other hand, a time period during which the vehicle is traveling along a travel route, excluding the high driving load time period, is a time period during which the driving load on the vehicle driver is low, and is therefore considered to be a recommended call time period during which calling the driver is recommended. Therefore, the estimation unit 234 estimates a time period during which the vehicle is traveling along a travel route where the driving load on the vehicle driver is low as the recommended call time period.

[0093] The identification unit 233 identifies a high driving load section on the travel route where the driving load on the vehicle driver is high, based on the route information and map information. More specifically, the identification unit 233 identifies a section on the travel route where there are successive right and left turns, a high-accident section, a school zone, or a section with many curves as the high driving load section. For example, the identification unit 233 identifies a section on the travel route where there are successive right and left turns or a section with many curves, based on the route information and map information. The identification unit 233 also acquires, via the communication unit 210, accident-prone spot map information from an external database that manages accident-prone spot map information that displays the locations of accident-prone spots on a map. When the identification unit 233 acquires the accident-prone spot map information, it identifies the accident-prone spot section on the travel route based on the accident-prone spot map information, route information, and map information. The identification unit 233 also acquires, via the communication unit 210, road sign information from an external database that manages road sign information regarding the installation locations of various road signs, including road signs indicating school zones. When the identification unit 233 acquires the road sign information, it identifies a school zone on the travel route based on the road sign information, route information, and map information.

[0094] The estimation unit 234 estimates an expected arrival time at which the vehicle will arrive at the high driving load section identified by the identification unit 233. For example, the estimation unit 234 estimates an expected arrival time at which the vehicle will arrive at the start point of the high driving load section identified by the identification unit 233. For example, the estimation unit 234 estimates a travel distance from the current position of the vehicle to the start point of the high driving load section identified by the identification unit 233 based on route information, map information, and current position information. Next, the estimation unit 234 estimates a travel time from the current position to the start point of the high driving load section (hereinafter also referred to as an eighth travel time) by dividing the estimated travel distance by the vehicle's travel speed (e.g., average speed, etc.). Furthermore, when the estimation unit 234 estimates the eighth travel time, it estimates an expected arrival time at which the vehicle will arrive at the start point of the high driving load section by adding the eighth travel time to the current time.

[0095] The estimation unit 234 estimates an expected time at which the vehicle will pass through the high driving load section identified by the identification unit 233. For example, the estimation unit 234 estimates an expected time at which the vehicle will pass through an end point of the high driving load section identified by the identification unit 233. For example, the estimation unit 234 estimates a travel distance from the current position of the vehicle to the end point of the high driving load section identified by the identification unit 233 based on route information, map information, and current position information. Next, the estimation unit 234 estimates a travel time from the current position to the end point of the high driving load section (hereinafter also referred to as a ninth travel time) by dividing the estimated travel distance by the vehicle's travel speed (e.g., average speed, etc.). Furthermore, when the estimation unit 234 estimates the ninth travel time, it estimates an expected time at which the vehicle will pass through the end point of the high driving load section by adding the ninth travel time to the current time.

[0096] Next, the estimation unit 234 estimates the time period from the estimated expected arrival time to the estimated passing time as a high driving load time period in which the driving load on the vehicle driver is high. Next, the estimation unit 234 estimates, as a recommended call time period, a block of time of a predetermined length or more from among time periods excluding the high driving load time period estimated from the traveling period during which the vehicle travels the travel route.

[0097] In any of the above-described embodiments and variations, the estimation unit 234 may periodically recalculate the time it takes for the vehicle to arrive at and pass through a section corresponding to a recommended call time slot. In this case, when the start time or end time of the recalculated recommended call time slot changes by a predetermined time or more from the previously estimated recommended call time slot, the transmission unit 235 may transmit the newly estimated recommended call time slot to the schedule server 100, and the schedule server 100 may transmit the newly estimated recommended call time slot to the terminal device 300 along with information indicating that the recommended call time slot has changed, prompting the terminal device 300 to reschedule a call reservation. In this way, even if an unforeseen event occurs and the schedule for the vehicle's travel route changes, the information processing device can notify the call requester of the schedule change.

[0098] [7. Effects] As described above, the information processing device according to the embodiment (an example of the schedule server 100 or the in-vehicle terminal device 200) includes an acquisition unit (the acquisition unit 232 in the above-described embodiment), an estimation unit (the estimation unit 234 in the above-described embodiment), and a provision unit (the provision unit 134 in the above-described embodiment). The acquisition unit acquires route information indicating the vehicle's travel route to the destination, map information corresponding to the travel route, and current location information indicating the current location of the vehicle. The estimation unit estimates a recommended call time period during which the vehicle driver is recommended to make a call, based on the route information, map information, and current location information, during the travel period during which the vehicle travels along the travel route. The provision unit provides schedule information indicating the recommended call time period to an external device (an example of the terminal device 300).

[0099] As a result, the information processing device can estimate, as a recommended call time period, a time period during which the vehicle is traveling along a travel route that is convenient for the driver to make a call, and provide the call requester with schedule information indicating the time period that is convenient for the driver to make a call. As a result, the information processing device can enable the call requester to make a call reservation during a time period that is convenient for the driver to make a call. Therefore, the information processing device can enable the driver who is driving and the call requester to make a call during a time period that is convenient for the driver to make a call.

[0100] The estimation unit also estimates, as the recommended call time period, a time period in which voice guidance output according to the current position of the vehicle is not required.

[0101] As a result, the information processing device can estimate, as a recommended call time period, a time period during which the vehicle travels along a travel route during which voice guidance output is not required, and provide the call requester with schedule information indicating the time period during which voice guidance output is not required. As a result, the information processing device can enable the call requester to make a call reservation with the driver during a time period during which voice guidance output is not required. Therefore, the information processing device can enable the driver who is driving and the call requester to make a call during a time period during which voice guidance output is not required.

[0102] The information processing device further includes an identification unit (the identification unit 233 in the above-described embodiment). The identification unit identifies sections of the travel route where voice guidance output is not required, based on route information and map information. The estimation unit estimates an estimated arrival time at which the vehicle will arrive at the section where voice guidance output is not required, and an estimated passage time at which the vehicle will pass through the section where voice guidance output is not required, and estimates that the time period from the estimated estimated arrival time to the estimated passage time is a time period where voice guidance output is not required.

[0103] By specifying a section of the travel route where voice guidance output is unnecessary, the information processing device can appropriately estimate a time period in which the vehicle travels through a section where voice guidance output is unnecessary as a time period where voice guidance output is unnecessary. This allows the information processing device to appropriately estimate a time period where voice guidance output is unnecessary as a recommended call time period.

[0104] The specifying unit specifies a section between two adjacent voice guidance output points on the travel route as a section where voice guidance output is unnecessary. The estimating unit estimates an estimated arrival time for the vehicle to arrive at the section between the two adjacent voice guidance output points and an estimated passage time for the vehicle to pass through the section between the two adjacent voice guidance output points, and estimates the time period from the estimated estimated arrival time to the estimated passage time as a time period where voice guidance output is unnecessary.

[0105] As a result, the information processing device can identify the section between two adjacent voice guidance output points on the travel route as a section where voice guidance output is not required on the travel route, and thereby appropriately estimate the time period during which the vehicle travels through the section between two adjacent voice guidance output points as a time period during which voice guidance output is not required.

[0106] The identification unit identifies a congested section on the travel route as a section for which voice guidance output is unnecessary. The estimation unit estimates an expected arrival time for the vehicle to arrive at the congested section and an expected passing time for the vehicle to pass through the congested section, and estimates a time period from the estimated expected arrival time to the estimated passing time as a time period for which voice guidance output is unnecessary.

[0107] This allows the information processing device to identify congested sections of the travel route as sections where voice guidance output is not required, and thereby appropriately estimate the time periods during which the vehicle will be traveling through the congested sections as times when voice guidance output is not required.

[0108] The identification unit identifies a specific intersection on the travel route as a section where output of voice guidance is unnecessary. The estimation unit estimates an estimated arrival time at which the vehicle will arrive at the specific intersection, estimates an estimated passage time at which the vehicle will pass the specific intersection based on the estimated estimated arrival time and a statistical value of the time required to pass the specific intersection, and estimates a time period from the estimated estimated arrival time to the estimated passage time as a time period where output of voice guidance is unnecessary.

[0109] This allows the information processing device to identify specific intersections on the travel route as sections where voice guidance output is not required, and thereby appropriately estimate the time period during which the vehicle will pass through the specific intersection as a time period during which voice guidance output is not required.

[0110] The identification unit identifies an autonomous driving section on the travel route as a section for which voice guidance output is unnecessary. The estimation unit estimates an estimated arrival time for the vehicle to arrive at the autonomous driving section and an estimated passage time for the vehicle to pass through the autonomous driving section, and estimates the time period from the estimated estimated arrival time to the estimated passage time as a time period for which voice guidance output is unnecessary.

[0111] As a result, the information processing device can identify an autonomous driving section on the travel route as a section where voice guidance output is not required, and thereby appropriately estimate the time period during which the vehicle will be traveling through the autonomous driving section as a time period during which voice guidance output is not required.

[0112] The identification unit identifies known road sections on the travel route that have been traveled a predetermined number of times in the past as sections for which voice guidance output is unnecessary. The estimation unit estimates an estimated arrival time for the vehicle to arrive at the known road section and an estimated passage time for the vehicle to pass through the known road section, and estimates the time period from the estimated arrival time to the estimated passage time as a time period for which voice guidance output is unnecessary.

[0113] As a result, the information processing device can identify known road sections on the travel route as sections on the travel route where voice guidance output is not required, and thereby appropriately estimate the time periods during which the vehicle will be traveling on known road sections as time periods during which voice guidance output is not required.

[0114] In addition, the estimation unit estimates high driving load time periods during the driving period when the vehicle is traveling along the travel route, when the driving load on the vehicle driver is high, and estimates a block of time of more than a predetermined length from the time periods excluding the high driving load time periods estimated from the driving period when the vehicle is traveling along the travel route as a recommended call time period.

[0115] As a result, the information processing device can estimate, as a recommended call time period, a time period during which the vehicle is traveling along a travel route when the driving load on the vehicle driver is low, and provide the call requester with schedule information indicating the time period when the driving load on the vehicle driver is low. As a result, the information processing device can enable the call requester to reserve a call with the driver during a time period when the driving load on the vehicle driver is low. Therefore, the information processing device can enable the driver who is driving and the call requester to make a call during a time period when the driving load on the vehicle driver is low.

[0116] The information processing device further includes an identification unit (the identification unit 233 in the above-described embodiment). The identification unit identifies a high driving load section on the travel route where the driving load on the driver of the vehicle is high, based on the route information and the map information. The estimation unit estimates an estimated arrival time at which the vehicle will arrive at the high driving load section and an estimated passage time at which the vehicle will pass through the high driving load section, and estimates the time period from the estimated estimated arrival time to the estimated passage time to be a high driving load time period.

[0117] As a result, the information processing device can identify high driving load sections on the travel route where the driving load on the vehicle driver is high, and thereby appropriately estimate the time period during which the vehicle travels through the high driving load sections as the high driving load time period.As a result, the information processing device can appropriately estimate a period of time, excluding the high driving load time period, during the travel period during which the vehicle travels on the travel route, that is a block of time equal to or longer than a predetermined length, as a time period during which the driving load on the vehicle driver is low.As a result, the information processing device can appropriately estimate the time period during which the driving load on the vehicle driver is low as the recommended call time period.

[0118] The identifying unit also identifies, as a high driving load section, a section on the travel route with successive right and left turns, a section with a high accident rate, a school zone, or a section with many curves.

[0119] As a result, the information processing device can identify sections of the travel route with successive right and left turns, sections with frequent accidents, school zones, or sections with many curves as high driving load sections, and can appropriately estimate the time periods during which the vehicle travels through sections of the travel route with successive right and left turns, sections with frequent accidents, school zones, or sections with many curves as high driving load time periods.

[0120] The information processing device further includes a generation unit (the generation unit 133 in the above-described embodiment). The generation unit generates integrated schedule information that integrates a travel period during which the vehicle travels along the travel route, a recommended call time zone during the travel period, and other schedules of the driver.

[0121] This allows the information processing device to provide the call requester with information about the driver's daily schedule, including time periods when it is convenient for the driver to make a call while driving. This allows the call requester to grasp the driver's entire daily schedule and then make a call reservation during a time period when it is convenient for the driver to make a call while driving.

[0122] The providing unit also transmits the integrated schedule information to a third-party external device, accepts a call reservation with the driver from the external device, and, if the driver approves the accepted call reservation, provides the integrated schedule information reflecting the call reservation to the external device.

[0123] This allows the information processing device to notify the call requester that the driver has approved the notification reservation. The information processing device can also provide the call requester with integrated schedule information that reflects the call reservation. Therefore, the information processing device can improve usability when the call requester makes a call reservation at a time that is convenient for the driver while driving.

[0124] [8. Hardware Configuration] Furthermore, information processing devices such as the schedule server 100, the in-vehicle terminal device 200, and the terminal device 300 according to the above-described embodiments and modifications are realized by a computer 1000 having a configuration as shown in Fig. 9, for example. Fig. 9 is a hardware configuration diagram showing an example of a computer that realizes the functions of the schedule server 100, the in-vehicle terminal device 200, the terminal device 300, etc. The following description will be given taking the schedule server 100 according to the embodiment as an example. The computer 1000 includes a CPU 1100, a RAM 1200, a ROM 1300, an HDD 1400, a communication interface (I / F) 1500, an input / output interface (I / F) 1600, and a media interface (I / F) 1700.

[0125] The CPU 1100 operates and controls each unit based on programs stored in the ROM 1300 or the HDD 1400. The ROM 1300 stores a boot program executed by the CPU 1100 when the computer 1000 starts up, programs that depend on the hardware of the computer 1000, and the like.

[0126] The HDD 1400 stores programs executed by the CPU 1100, data used by these programs, etc. The communication interface 1500 receives data from other devices via a predetermined communication network and sends it to the CPU 1100, and transmits data generated by the CPU 1100 to other devices via the predetermined communication network.

[0127] The CPU 1100 controls an output device such as a display and an input device such as a keyboard via an input / output interface 1600. The CPU 1100 acquires data from the input device via the input / output interface 1600. The CPU 1100 also outputs generated data to the output device via the input / output interface 1600. Note that instead of the CPU 1100, an MPU (Micro Processing Unit) or, since a GPU requires a large amount of computing power, a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) may also be used.

[0128] Media interface 1700 reads a program or data stored in recording medium 1800 and provides it to CPU 1100 via RAM 1200. CPU 1100 loads the program or data from recording medium 1800 onto RAM 1200 via media interface 1700 and executes the loaded program. Recording medium 1800 is, for example, an optical recording medium such as a DVD (Digital Versatile Disc) or a PD (Phase Change Rewritable Disc), a magneto-optical recording medium such as an MO (Magneto-Optical disk), a tape medium, a magnetic recording medium, or a semiconductor memory.

[0129] For example, when the computer 1000 functions as the schedule server 100, the CPU 1100 of the computer 1000 executes programs loaded onto the RAM 1200 to realize the functions of the control unit 130. The CPU 1100 of the computer 1000 reads and executes these programs from the recording medium 1800, but as another example, the CPU 1100 may obtain these programs from another device via a predetermined communication network.

[0130] Although some of the embodiments of the present application have been described in detail above with reference to the drawings, these are merely examples, and the present invention can be implemented in other forms that include the embodiments described in the Disclosure of the Invention section and that have undergone various modifications and improvements based on the knowledge of those skilled in the art.

[0131] [9. Other] Furthermore, among the processes described in the above embodiments and modifications, all or part of the processes described as being performed automatically can be performed manually, or all or part of the processes described as being performed manually can be performed automatically using known methods. In addition, the information including the processing procedures, specific names, various data, and parameters shown in the above documents and drawings can be changed as desired unless otherwise specified. For example, the various information shown in each drawing is not limited to the information shown in the drawings.

[0132] Furthermore, the components of each device shown in the figure are conceptual functional components and do not necessarily have to be physically configured as shown in the figure. In other words, the specific form of distribution and integration of each device is not limited to that shown in the figure, and all or part of them can be functionally or physically distributed and integrated in any unit depending on various loads, usage conditions, etc.

[0133] Furthermore, the above-described embodiments and modifications can be combined as appropriate within the scope of not causing any contradiction in the processing content. [Explanation of symbols]

[0134] 1. Information Processing Systems 100 Schedule Server 110 Communications Department 120 Storage section 121 Schedule information storage unit 130 Control Unit 131 Acquisition Department 132 Reception Department 133 Generation part 134 Provision Department 200 In-vehicle terminal device 210 Communications Department 220 Storage section 221 Map information storage unit 222 Traveling information storage unit 230 Control Unit 231 Route Guidance Department 232 Acquisition Department 233 Specific part 234 Estimation Department 235 Transmitter 236 Receiving unit 237 Output control section 238 Reception Department 240 Sensor unit 250 Input section 260 Audio Output Unit 270 Display section 300 Terminal Equipment 310 Communications Department 320 Storage section 330 Control Unit 331 Reception Department 332 Transmitter 333 Receiving Unit 334 Output control section 340 Input section 350 Output Section

Claims

1. an acquisition unit that acquires route information indicating a route of travel of the vehicle to a destination, map information corresponding to the route of travel, and current location information indicating a current location of the vehicle; an estimation unit that estimates, based on the route information, the map information, and the current position information, a block of time equal to or longer than a predetermined length of time within a time period during which voice guidance output according to the current position of the vehicle is unnecessary during a travel period during which the vehicle travels along the travel route until arriving at the destination, as a recommended call time period during which a call is recommended to the driver of the vehicle; a specifying unit that specifies a section of the travel route where the voice guidance output is not required based on the route information and the map information; An information processing device comprising:

2. an acquisition unit that acquires route information indicating a route of travel of the vehicle to a destination, map information corresponding to the route of travel, and current location information indicating a current location of the vehicle; an estimation unit that estimates, based on the route information, the map information, and the current location information, a block of time equal to or longer than a predetermined length of time within a travel period during which the vehicle travels along the travel route until arriving at the destination, excluding a high driving load time period during which the driving load on the driver of the vehicle is high, as a recommended call time period during which a call is recommended to the driver of the vehicle; a specifying unit that specifies a section of the travel route for which voice guidance output in accordance with a current position of the vehicle is not required, based on the route information and the map information; An information processing device comprising:

3. a providing unit that provides schedule information indicating the recommended call time period to an external device; 3. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising:

4. The estimation unit an estimated arrival time when the vehicle will arrive at a section where the output of the voice guidance is not required, and an estimated passage time when the vehicle will pass through the section where the output of the voice guidance is not required, and estimating that the time period from the estimated estimated arrival time to the estimated passage time is the time period where the output of the voice guidance is not required; 3. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the information processing apparatus is a computer.

5. The identification unit identifying a section between two adjacent output points of the voice guidance on the travel route as a section where the output of the voice guidance is not required; The estimation unit an estimated arrival time when the vehicle will arrive at the section between the two adjacent output points of the voice guidance and an estimated passage time when the vehicle will pass through the section between the two adjacent output points of the voice guidance, and estimates a time period from the estimated estimated arrival time to the estimated passage time as a time period when output of the voice guidance is unnecessary; 5. The information processing apparatus according to claim 4,

6. The identification unit Identifying a congested section on the travel route as a section for which the voice guidance output is not required; The estimation unit an estimated arrival time when the vehicle will arrive at the congested section and an estimated passage time when the vehicle will pass through the congested section, and estimates a time period from the estimated estimated arrival time to the estimated passage time as a time period during which output of the voice guidance is unnecessary; 5. The information processing apparatus according to claim 4,

7. The identification unit Identifying a specific intersection on the travel route as a section where the output of the voice guidance is not required; The estimation unit an estimated arrival time at which the vehicle will arrive at the specific intersection; an estimated passage time at which the vehicle will pass through the specific intersection based on the estimated estimated arrival time and a statistical value of the time required to pass through the specific intersection; and an estimate of a time period from the estimated estimated arrival time to the estimated passage time as a time period during which output of the voice guidance is not required.

5. The information processing apparatus according to claim 4,

8. The identification unit Identifying an automatic driving section on the travel route as a section where the voice guidance output is not required; The estimation unit an estimated arrival time when the vehicle will arrive at the automated driving section and an estimated passage time when the vehicle will pass through the automated driving section, and estimates a time period from the estimated estimated arrival time to the estimated passage time as a time period during which output of the voice guidance is unnecessary; 5. The information processing apparatus according to claim 4,

9. The identification unit identifying a known road section on the travel route that has been traveled a predetermined number of times or more in the past as a section for which the voice guidance output is not required; The estimation unit an estimated arrival time when the vehicle will arrive at the known road section and an estimated passage time when the vehicle will pass through the known road section, and estimates a time period from the estimated estimated arrival time to the estimated passage time as a time period during which output of the voice guidance is unnecessary; 5. The information processing apparatus according to claim 4,

10. The estimation unit a high driving load time period during which the vehicle travels along the travel route, during which the driving load on the driver of the vehicle is high, and a block of time of at least a predetermined length from the time period excluding the high driving load time period estimated from the travel period during which the vehicle travels along the travel route, is estimated as the recommended call time period; 3. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the information processing apparatus is a computer.

11. an identification unit that identifies a high driving load section on the travel route where a driving load on a driver of the vehicle is high based on the route information, the map information, and the current position information; The estimation unit an estimated arrival time at which the vehicle will arrive at the high driving load section and an estimated passage time at which the vehicle will pass through the high driving load section, and estimates a time period from the estimated estimated arrival time to the estimated passage time as the high driving load time period; 11. The information processing apparatus according to claim 10,

12. The identification unit Identifying a section on the travel route with successive right and left turns, a section with many accidents, a school zone, or a section with many curves as the high driving load section.

12. The information processing apparatus according to claim 11,

13. a generating unit that generates integrated schedule information that integrates a travel period during which the vehicle travels along the travel route, the recommended call time period during the travel period, and other schedules of the driver; 3. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the information processing apparatus is a computer.

14. The providing unit transmit integrated schedule information that integrates a travel period during which the vehicle travels along the travel route, the recommended call time period during the travel period, and other schedules of the driver to the external device of a third party, accept a call reservation with the driver from the external device, and when the driver approves the accepted call reservation, provide the external device with the integrated schedule information that reflects the call reservation; 4. The information processing apparatus according to claim 3,

15. An information processing method executed by an information processing device, an acquisition step of acquiring route information indicating a route of travel of the vehicle to a destination, map information corresponding to the route of travel, and current location information indicating a current location of the vehicle; an estimation step of estimating, based on the route information, the map information, and the current position information, a block of time equal to or longer than a predetermined length of time within a time period during which voice guidance output according to the current position of the vehicle is unnecessary during a travel period during which the vehicle travels along the travel route until arriving at the destination, as a recommended call time period during which a call is recommended to the driver of the vehicle; a specifying step of specifying a section of the travel route where the voice guidance output is not required based on the route information and the map information; An information processing method comprising:

16. An information processing method executed by an information processing device, an acquisition step of acquiring route information indicating a route of travel of the vehicle to a destination, map information corresponding to the route of travel, and current location information indicating a current location of the vehicle; an estimation step of estimating, based on the route information, the map information, and the current location information, a block of time of at least a predetermined length, within a period of time during which the vehicle travels along the travel route until arriving at the destination, excluding a high driving load period during which the driving load on the driver of the vehicle is high, as a recommended call period during which a call is recommended to the driver of the vehicle; a specifying step of specifying a section of the travel route where voice guidance output according to the current position of the vehicle is not required, based on the route information and the map information; An information processing method comprising:

17. an acquisition step of acquiring route information indicating a route of travel of the vehicle to a destination, map information corresponding to the route of travel, and current location information indicating a current location of the vehicle; an estimation step of estimating, based on the route information, the map information, and the current position information, a block of time equal to or longer than a predetermined length of time within a time period during which voice guidance output according to the current position of the vehicle is unnecessary during a travel period during which the vehicle travels along the travel route until arriving at the destination, as a recommended call time period during which a call is recommended to the driver of the vehicle; a step of identifying a section of the travel route where the voice guidance output is not required, based on the route information and the map information; An information processing program for causing an information processing device to execute the above.

18. an acquisition step of acquiring route information indicating a route of travel of the vehicle to a destination, map information corresponding to the route of travel, and current location information indicating a current location of the vehicle; an estimation step of estimating, based on the route information, the map information, and the current location information, a block of time equal to or longer than a predetermined length of time, excluding a high driving load time period in which the driver of the vehicle is under a high driving load, as a recommended call time period in which a call is recommended to the driver of the vehicle; a step of identifying a section of the travel route on which voice guidance output according to the current position of the vehicle is not required, based on the route information and the map information; An information processing program for causing an information processing device to execute the above.

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