Information processing device, information processing method, and program

Abstract

To provide a new technology for determining a remote driver who remotely drives a mobile object. [Solution] The information processing device disclosed herein includes an acquisition unit and a determination unit. The acquisition unit acquires mobile object information indicating at least one of the loading status and the boarding status of a mobile object that can be driven remotely and by an on-board driver. The determination unit determines a remote driver who will remotely drive the mobile object based on the mobile object information.

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] A technology related to this disclosure is disclosed in Patent Document 1. The invention disclosed in Patent Document 1 aims to provide a remote driving service system that allows users to easily use a remote driving service. The invention disclosed in Patent Document 1 automatically selects a remote driving agent based on the fee and skill of the remote driving agent and road conditions. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2022-152550 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] By determining a remote driver who will remotely drive a mobile object based on road conditions, as in the invention disclosed in Patent Document 1, it is possible to appropriately determine a remote driver who is suited to road conditions. However, the invention disclosed in Patent Document 1 cannot appropriately determine a remote driver who is suited to other conditions. One example of the purpose of this disclosure is to provide a new technology for determining a remote driver who will remotely drive a mobile object. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] According to one aspect of this disclosure, an acquisition means for acquiring mobile body information indicating at least one of a loading status and a boarding status of a mobile body that can be driven remotely and by an on-board driver; a determination means for determining a remote driver who will remotely drive the mobile object based on the mobile object information; An information processing device having the above configuration is provided.

[0006] According to one aspect of this disclosure, One or more computers Acquire mobile object information indicating at least one of a loading status and an onboard status of a mobile object that can be driven remotely and by an onboard driver; An information processing method is provided for determining a remote driver who will remotely drive the mobile object based on the mobile object information.

[0007] According to one aspect of this disclosure, Computer, an acquisition means for acquiring mobile body information indicating at least one of a loading status and a boarding status of a mobile body that can be driven remotely and by an on-board driver; a determination means for determining a remote driver who will remotely drive the mobile object based on the mobile object information; A program is provided to function as a [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to one example of the present disclosure, a new technology is realized for determining a remote driver who remotely drives a mobile object. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a functional block diagram of an information processing device. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of processing by the information processing device. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of an information processing device. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram schematically illustrating an example of information processed by the information processing device. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram schematically illustrating another example of information processed by the information processing device. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating another example of a functional block diagram of an information processing device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. In this disclosure, the drawings relate to one or more embodiments. In all drawings, similar components are designated by similar reference numerals, and descriptions thereof will be omitted as appropriate.

[0011] <<First embodiment>> Fig. 1 is a functional block diagram showing an overview of an information processing device 10. Fig. 2 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of processing executed by the information processing device 10.

[0012] 1, the information processing device 10 includes an acquisition unit 11 and a determination unit 12. These functional units execute the process shown in the flowchart of FIG.

[0013] In S10, the acquisition unit 11 acquires mobile object information indicating at least one of the loading status and the boarding status of a mobile object that can be remotely driven and driven by an on-board driver (hereinafter referred to as a "remote-driving compatible mobile object"). In S11, the determination unit 12 determines a remote driver who will remotely drive the remote-driving compatible mobile object based on the mobile object information acquired in S10.

[0014] In this way, the information processing device 10 determines a remote driver who will remotely drive the remote driving compatible mobile object based on characteristic information of "at least one of the loading status and the boarding status" of the remote driving compatible mobile object. The skills and experience required of the remote driver differ depending on the loading status and the boarding status. According to the information processing device 10, it is possible to appropriately determine a remote driver who will remotely drive the remote driving compatible mobile object depending on the loading status and the boarding status.

[0015] <<Second embodiment>> <Summary> The information processing device 10 of the second embodiment is a specific implementation of the configuration of the information processing device 10 of the first embodiment, which will be described in detail below.

[0016] <Hardware configuration> First, an example of the hardware configuration of the information processing device 10 will be described. Each functional unit of the information processing device 10 is realized by any combination of hardware and software. Those skilled in the art will understand that there are various variations in the realization method and device. The software includes programs that are pre-loaded when the device is shipped, and programs downloaded from recording media such as CDs (Compact Discs) or servers on the Internet.

[0017] FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the hardware configuration of an information processing device 10. As shown in FIG. 3, the information processing device 10 has a processor 1A, a memory 2A, an input / output interface 3A, a peripheral circuit 4A, and a bus 5A. The peripheral circuit 4A includes various modules. The information processing device 10 does not necessarily have to have the peripheral circuit 4A. Note that the information processing device 10 may be composed of multiple devices that are physically and / or logically separated. In this case, each of the multiple devices can have the above hardware configuration.

[0018] The bus 5A is a data transmission path for the processor 1A, memory 2A, peripheral circuit 4A, and input / output interface 3A to mutually transmit and receive data. The processor 1A is, for example, a central processing unit (CPU) or a graphics processing unit (GPU). The memory 2A is, for example, a random access memory (RAM) or a read-only memory (ROM). The input / output interface 3A includes interfaces for acquiring information from input devices, external devices, external servers, external sensors, cameras, etc., and interfaces for outputting information to output devices, external devices, external servers, etc. The input / output interface 3A also includes an interface for connecting to a communication network such as the Internet. Examples of input devices include a keyboard, mouse, microphone, physical buttons, and touch panel. Examples of output devices include a display, projector, speaker, printer, and mailer. The processor 1A can issue commands to each module and perform calculations based on the results of those calculations.

[0019] <Functional configuration> Next, a detailed description will be given of the functional configuration of the information processing device 10. Fig. 1 is an example of a functional block diagram of the information processing device 10. As shown in the figure, the information processing device 10 has an acquisition unit 11 and a determination unit 12. Each functional unit will be described in detail below.

[0020] The acquisition unit 11 acquires mobile object information indicating at least one of the loading status and the boarding status of the remote driving compatible mobile object.

[0021] A "remote driving capable vehicle" is a vehicle that can be driven both remotely by a remote driver and by an on-board driver. A remote driving capable vehicle can switch between remote driving by a remote driver and driving by an on-board driver. For example, the system of a remote driving capable vehicle can execute the switch in response to a switch input from an on-board driver who is on board and driving the remote driving capable vehicle. Note that the system of a remote driving capable vehicle may also execute the switch automatically in response to the satisfaction of a predetermined condition. A remote driving capable vehicle can be realized using widely known technology.

[0022] A remotely driven mobile object may be a mobile object that moves on land (truck, bus, automobile, heavy equipment, etc.), a mobile object that moves in the air (airplane, helicopter, etc.), a mobile object that moves on water (ship, boat, etc.), or a mobile object that moves underwater (submarine, etc.).

[0023] A "remote driver" is a driver who is not on board the remote-driving-enabled vehicle, but who drives the remote-driving-enabled vehicle remotely via a remote driving system installed outside the remote-driving-enabled vehicle. The remote driver may be a human or a computer such as an autonomous driving AI (Artificial Intelligence).

[0024] "Remote driving" refers to driving a remotely driven vehicle remotely via a remote driving system installed outside the remote driving vehicle.

[0025] A "remote driving system" is a system for remotely driving a remote driving-enabled vehicle. The configuration of the remote driving system is not limited and can be configured using widely known technologies. For example, the remote driving system has a communication unit that communicates with the system of the remote driving-enabled vehicle, an output unit that outputs information to the remote driver, and an input unit that accepts driving operations from the remote driver.

[0026] The communication unit can acquire image and audio data showing the situation around the remote-driving-enabled mobile body generated by a camera and a microphone installed in the remote-driving-enabled mobile body from the system of the remote-driving-enabled mobile body. The communication unit can also transmit information showing the content of driving operations performed by the remote driver using the input unit (information showing the status of various operation devices, input content to various operation devices, etc.) to the system of the remote-driving-enabled mobile body. The communication unit may also be able to acquire various information input by a crew member on board the remote-driving-enabled mobile body to the system of the remote-driving-enabled mobile body.

[0027] The output unit can, for example, display the image and audio data received by the communication unit from the system of the remote-driving-enabled mobile body via an output device such as a display or projection device, or output the audio via a speaker. A human remote driver can understand the situation around the remote-driving-enabled mobile body based on the displayed images and output audio. Additionally, the output unit may output the image and audio data received by the communication unit from the system of the remote-driving-enabled mobile body to an autonomous driving AI. The autonomous driving AI can understand the situation around the remote-driving-enabled mobile body by analyzing the image and audio data input from the output unit.

[0028] The input unit receives driving operations from the remote driver via an operation device. The operation device may be, for example, the same as the operation device mounted on the remote-driving-enabled vehicle. The operation device may include, for example, at least one of a steering wheel, a brake pedal, an accelerator pedal, a clutch pedal, a handbrake, a turn signal, an operation lever, a steering wheel, a throttle lever, a joystick, and a touch panel. Note that the operation device may also be other devices. The input unit may receive an operation from the remote driver to apply physical force to change the state of the operation device to a predetermined state. Alternatively, the input unit may receive an electrical signal from the remote driver to change the state of the operation device to a predetermined state. The electrical signal includes information specifying the predetermined state of the operation device (amount of steering wheel rotation, amount of pedal depression, handbrake state, turn signal state, etc.).

[0029] Information indicating the content of the driving operations performed by the remote driver using the input unit (information indicating the status of various operation devices, the input content to various operation devices, etc.) is transmitted to the system of the remote driving-enabled mobile body via the communication unit. The system of the remote driving-enabled mobile body controls the remote driving-enabled mobile body based on the received information. For example, the system of the remote driving-enabled mobile body can change the status of the various operation devices installed in the remote driving-enabled mobile body to the status of the various operation devices indicated by the information received from the remote driving system.

[0030] An "onboard driver" is a driver who boards a remote-driving-enabled vehicle and drives the remote-driving-enabled vehicle via an operating device installed on the remote-driving-enabled vehicle. The onboard driver may be a human or a computer such as an autonomous driving AI. For example, the onboard driver can operate the remote-driving-enabled vehicle by applying physical force to the operating device installed on the remote-driving-enabled vehicle and setting the operating device to a predetermined state. In addition, the onboard driver can operate the remote-driving-enabled vehicle by inputting an electrical signal into the system of the remote-driving-enabled vehicle that sets the operating device installed on the remote-driving-enabled vehicle to a predetermined state.

[0031] "Driving by an on-board driver" means driving a remote-driving-enabled vehicle via an operation device mounted on the remote-driving-enabled vehicle.

[0032] "Mobile object information" is information used when determining a remote driver who will remotely drive a remote driving-enabled mobile object. The mobile object information indicates at least one of the loading status and the boarding status of the remote driving-enabled mobile object. As will be described in the following embodiments, the mobile object information may also indicate other details of the remote driving-enabled mobile object.

[0033] The "loading status" indicates the status of the object (baggage) loaded on the remote driving-compatible mobile body. The loading status indicates at least one of the load amount, the type of loaded object, and the weight balance.

[0034] The "load capacity" indicates the total weight of objects loaded on the remote driving-enabled mobile body. Depending on the load capacity of the remote driving-enabled mobile body, the skills and experience required of the remote driver also change.

[0035] Here, a description will be given of an example of a means by which the acquisition unit 11 acquires information indicating the payload of the remote-driving compatible moving body. Note that the example described here is merely an example, and the present invention is not limited to this.

[0036] For example, a weight sensor for measuring a load weight may be installed in the remote-driving-capable mobile object. The acquisition unit 11 may receive information indicating the current load weight measured by the weight sensor from the system of the remote-driving-capable mobile object. The information processing device 10 and the system of the remote-driving-capable mobile object may be communicably connected.

[0037] Alternatively, a center system that manages multiple remote-driving-capable mobile objects may pre-register the estimated load weight of each remote-driving-capable mobile object for each day. The registration may be performed by an operator. For example, the operator may identify the load weight of each remote-driving-capable mobile object for that day based on the work content of each remote-driving-capable mobile object for that day and register it in the center system. The acquisition unit 11 may then acquire, from the center system, information indicating the load weight for that day of the remote-driving-capable mobile objects registered in the center system.

[0038] "Type of cargo" indicates the type of object loaded on the remote driving-enabled vehicle. There are various ways to classify the type of cargo. For example, the types of cargo include, but are not limited to, fragile items, precision machinery, food, and hazardous materials. Depending on the type of cargo, the skills and experience required of the remote driver also change.

[0039] Here, a description will be given of an example of a means by which the acquisition unit 11 acquires information indicating the type of cargo of the remote-driving compatible moving object. Note that the example described here is merely an example, and is not limited to this.

[0040] For example, in a center system that manages multiple remote-driving-capable mobile objects, the type of cargo carried by each remote-driving-capable mobile object on each day may be registered in advance. The registration may be performed by an operator. For example, the operator may identify the type of cargo carried by each remote-driving-capable mobile object on that day based on the business content of each remote-driving-capable mobile object on that day and register it in the center system. The acquisition unit 11 may then acquire, from the center system, information indicating the type of cargo carried by each remote-driving-capable mobile object on that day that is registered in the center system.

[0041] "Weight balance" refers to the balance of the load in the remote-driving-enabled mobile body. For example, the weight balance may refer to at least one of front load, rear load, right load, left load, and center load. Depending on the weight balance of the remote-driving-enabled mobile body, the skills and experience required of the remote driver also change.

[0042] Front load is a state in which a heavier load is applied to the front side of the remote driving-enabled mobile body than to the rear side. Rear load is a state in which a heavier load is applied to the rear side of the remote driving-enabled mobile body than to the front side. Right load is a state in which a heavier load is applied to the right side of the remote driving-enabled mobile body than to the left side. Left load is a state in which a heavier load is applied to the left side of the remote driving-enabled mobile body than to the right side. Middle load is a state in which the heaviest load is applied near the center of the remote driving-enabled mobile body.

[0043] Here, a description will be given of an example of a means by which the acquisition unit 11 acquires information indicating the weight balance of the remote-driving compatible moving object. Note that the example described here is merely an example, and the present invention is not limited to this.

[0044] For example, weight sensors for measuring the weight of the load may be installed at multiple locations on the remote-driving-enabled mobile body. In one example, weight sensors are installed at the front, rear, right side, left side, near the center, etc. of the remote-driving-enabled mobile body, and the weight of the load is measured at each location. The acquisition unit 11 may then receive information indicating the weight of the load at each location measured by such multiple weight sensors from the system of the remote-driving-enabled mobile body. The acquisition unit 11 can identify the above-mentioned weight balance by comparing the received weights at each location of the remote-driving-enabled mobile body.

[0045] In one example, the acquisition unit 11 can compare the weights of the load measured at the front, rear, and near the center. If the weight at the front is the heaviest, the acquisition unit 11 can determine that the load is a front load. If the weight at the rear is the heaviest, the acquisition unit 11 can determine that the load is a rear load. If the weight near the center is the heaviest, the acquisition unit 11 can determine that the load is a medium load.

[0046] In another example, the acquisition unit 11 can compare the weights of the load measured on the right side, the left side, and near the center. If the weight on the right side is the heaviest, the acquisition unit 11 can determine that the load is on the right side. If the weight on the left side is the heaviest, the acquisition unit 11 can determine that the load is on the left side. If the weight near the center is the heaviest, the acquisition unit 11 can determine that the load is medium.

[0047] Alternatively, the weight balance of each remote-driving-capable mobile object for each day may be registered in advance in a center system that manages multiple remote-driving-capable mobile objects. Registration may be performed by an operator. For example, the operator may identify the weight balance of each remote-driving-capable mobile object for that day based on the work content of each remote-driving-capable mobile object for that day and register it in the center system. The acquisition unit 11 may then acquire information indicating the weight balance of each remote-driving-capable mobile object for that day that is registered in the center system from the center system.

[0048] The "occupancy status" indicates the status of people riding in the remote driving-enabled vehicle. The occupancy status indicates at least one of the number of passengers, the attributes of the passengers, the total weight including passengers and luggage, and the weight balance.

[0049] "Number of passengers" refers to the number of people riding in the remote-driving-enabled vehicle. If the remote-driving-enabled vehicle is a means of transportation such as a bus, the weight of the remote-driving-enabled vehicle will vary greatly depending on the number of passengers. Furthermore, the skills and experience required of the remote driver will also vary depending on the number of passengers in the remote-driving-enabled vehicle.

[0050] Here, a description will be given of an example of a means by which the acquisition unit 11 acquires information indicating the number of passengers in the remote-driving compatible moving object. Note that the example described here is merely an example, and the present invention is not limited to this.

[0051] For example, a camera that captures images of the interior of the remote-driving-capable mobile body may be installed in the remote-driving-capable mobile body. The acquisition unit 11 may then receive images generated by the camera from the system of the remote-driving-capable mobile body. The acquisition unit 11 may detect people from the images. The acquisition unit 11 may then calculate the number of passengers in the remote-driving-capable mobile body by counting the number of detected people. For example, the camera may capture an image of the entire interior of the remote-driving-capable mobile body. The acquisition unit 11 may then calculate the total number of people detected from the images as the number of passengers. Alternatively, the camera may be installed at the entrance or exit of the remote-driving-capable mobile body. The acquisition unit 11 may then calculate the number of passengers in the remote-driving-capable mobile body by subtracting the number of people getting off the remote-driving-capable mobile body detected at the exit from the number of people getting on the remote-driving-capable mobile body detected at the entrance.

[0052] Note that instead of a camera, the acquisition unit 11 may use other sensors to calculate the number of passengers in the remote-driving compatible moving object using the same calculation method as above.

[0053] In addition, the acquisition unit 11 may cooperate with a payment system installed in the remote-driving-enabled vehicle to calculate at least one of the number of people getting on the remote-driving-enabled vehicle and the number of people getting off the remote-driving-enabled vehicle. In one example, a passenger in the remote-driving-enabled vehicle performs a payment process via the payment system when getting on the remote-driving-enabled vehicle. The acquisition unit 11 can calculate the number of people who have made a payment via the payment system as the number of people getting on the remote-driving-enabled vehicle. In another example, a passenger in the remote-driving-enabled vehicle performs a payment process via the payment system when getting off the remote-driving-enabled vehicle. The acquisition unit 11 can calculate the number of people who have made a payment via the payment system as the number of people getting off the remote-driving-enabled vehicle.

[0054] "Passenger attributes" refers to the attributes of the person riding in the remote-driving-enabled vehicle. Examples of passenger attributes include, but are not limited to, gender, age group, pregnancy, use of crutches, use of a wheelchair, use of a stroller, use of a walking aid, standing without holding onto a strap, etc. The skills and experience required of the remote driver also change depending on the attributes of the passenger in the remote-driving-enabled vehicle.

[0055] Here, a description will be given of an example of a means by which the acquisition unit 11 acquires information indicating the attributes of a passenger of a remote-driving compatible moving body. Note that the example described here is merely an example, and is not limited to this.

[0056] For example, a camera that captures the interior of the remote-driving-capable mobile object may be installed in the remote-driving-capable mobile object. The acquisition unit 11 may then receive an image generated by the camera from the system of the remote-driving-capable mobile object. The acquisition unit 11 may then detect a person from the image. The acquisition unit 11 may then further analyze the image and estimate attributes of the detected person. For example, the acquisition unit 11 may estimate attributes of a person appearing in the image by inputting the image into an estimation model (such as a classifier) ​​that has been generated in advance by machine learning.

[0057] "Total weight including passengers and luggage" refers to the total weight of the people riding in the remote driving-enabled vehicle and any luggage they bring with them. This total weight may also include the weight of any equipment (such as seats) that has been previously installed in the remote driving-enabled vehicle. The skills and experience required of the remote driver will vary depending on the total weight of the remote driving-enabled vehicle, including passengers and luggage.

[0058] Here, an example of a means for the acquisition unit 11 to acquire information indicating the total weight including passengers and luggage of the remote driving compatible moving body will be described. Note that the example described here is merely an example and is not limited to this.

[0059] For example, a weight sensor may be installed in the remote-driving-capable vehicle to measure the total weight including passengers and luggage. The acquisition unit 11 may then receive information indicating the current weight measured by the weight sensor from the system of the remote-driving-capable vehicle. Alternatively, the acquisition unit 11 may calculate a value obtained by multiplying the number of passengers in the remote-driving-capable vehicle calculated using the above-mentioned method by a correction coefficient as a guideline for the total weight including passengers and luggage. The correction coefficient is determined in advance taking into account the weight of each passenger, the weight of luggage, etc.

[0060] The "weight balance" is as explained in the description of the loading status. The acquisition unit 11 can calculate the weight balance of the boarding status in the same way as the weight balance of the loading status described above.

[0061] "Acquisition" includes at least one of the following: a device going to retrieve data or information stored in another device or storage medium (active acquisition), and a device inputting data or information output from another device (passive acquisition). Examples of active acquisition include making a request to another device and receiving a response, and accessing and reading information from another device or storage medium. An example of passive acquisition is receiving information that is distributed (or transmitted, push notification, etc.). Furthermore, acquisition may involve selecting and acquiring data or information from received data or information, or selecting and receiving distributed data or information.

[0062] The determination unit 12 determines a remote driver who will remotely drive the remote-driving compatible mobile object based on the mobile object information acquired by the acquisition unit 11.

[0063] Multiple remote drivers are registered in advance. The multiple remote drivers have different driving characteristics. For example, some are good at remote driving with a front load, while others are good at remote driving with a rear load. Also, some are good at remote driving in the rain, while others are not good at remote driving in the rain. Note that even in autonomous driving AI, driving characteristics arise depending on how it learns. Furthermore, if there are multiple autonomous driving AIs among the multiple remote drivers registered in advance, their driving characteristics may differ depending on how they each learn.

[0064] The determination unit 12 determines a remote driver who will remotely drive the remote driving compatible mobile object from among such multiple remote drivers. Specifically, the determination unit 12 determines a remote driver who is excellent at remote driving in the situation indicated by the mobile object information as the remote driver who will remotely drive the remote driving compatible mobile object. Hereinafter, the "remote driver who will remotely drive the remote driving compatible mobile object" determined by the determination unit 12 may be referred to as the "executing remote driver."

[0065] There are various means for determining the remote driver to be executed from among a plurality of remote drivers registered in advance, but one example will be described below.

[0066] In one example, as shown in FIG. 4, the remote driving characteristics of each of a plurality of remote drivers are registered in advance in the information processing device 10. The "remote driving characteristics" indicate the evaluation value of remote driving in various situations. As an example, FIG. 4 shows the evaluation value of remote driving in various loading situations defined by the load amount, type of load, and weight balance. In the example of FIG. 4, the evaluation value is shown as a number from 1 to 10. The larger the number, the higher the evaluation. For example, it is shown that the evaluation value of a remote driver with a remote driver ID (identifier) ​​of "L001" is "6" when the load is "fragile."

[0067] The evaluation value for each item of each remote driver can be determined by various means. For example, each remote driver may self-report. Alternatively, a predetermined examiner may review the remote driving of each remote driver and determine the evaluation value. Alternatively, a computer may determine the evaluation value using a predetermined calculation algorithm based on each remote driver's past remote driving experience (whether or not they have driven remotely under each situation and the number of times, whether or not they have had an accident while driving remotely under each situation, etc.). For example, the evaluation value for each item of each of the multiple remote drivers determined by such means is registered in advance in the information processing device 10.

[0068] The determination unit 12 can determine, as the executing remote driver, a remote driver whose evaluation value in the "status of the remote-driving compatible mobile object" indicated in the mobile object information acquired by the acquisition unit 11 satisfies the first determination condition.

[0069] The first determination condition may be, for example, "the evaluation value is the highest among the multiple remote drivers." Alternatively, the first determination condition may be, for example, "the evaluation value is equal to or greater than a reference value." If there are multiple remote drivers who satisfy the first determination condition, the determination unit 12 can determine one of them as the active remote driver based on a predetermined rule. The predetermined rule may be various, for example, random selection or other rules.

[0070] Here, a specific example of the determination process by the determination unit 12 will be described. In this example, the remote drivers registered in advance are three people, L001 to L003, shown in FIG. 4, and the "loading status of the remote driving compatible mobile object" indicated in the mobile object information acquired by the acquisition unit 11 is "type of loaded object: precision machinery." The first determination condition is "highest evaluation value among multiple remote drivers." In this case, the determination unit 12 determines the remote driver L001, who has the highest evaluation value of "10" for the loading status when precision machinery is loaded, as the executing remote driver.

[0071] In addition, when the mobile object information acquired by the acquisition unit 11 indicates multiple situations (e.g., load capacity and weight balance, number of passengers and weight balance, etc.), the determination unit 12 can calculate statistical values ​​of the evaluation value of the remote driving in each situation for each remote driver. The statistical values ​​include, but are not limited to, an average value, a weighted average value, a maximum value, a minimum value, a mode value, a median value, and a total value. Then, the determination unit 12 can use the statistical values ​​as the evaluation value of each remote driver and determine the executing remote driver using the above-mentioned method.

[0072] Here, a specific example of the determination process by the determination unit 12 will be described. In this example, the remote drivers registered in advance are three people L001 to L003 shown in Fig. 4, and the "loading status of the remote-driving compatible mobile object" indicated in the mobile object information acquired by the acquisition unit 11 is "type of load: precision machinery" and "weight balance: rear load". Then, the first determination condition is "highest evaluation value (statistical value) among multiple remote drivers", and the statistical value of the evaluation value is the "average value".

[0073] In this case, the determination unit 12 first calculates the statistical value of the evaluation value of each remote driver. The evaluation value of the remote driver L001 for "Type of load: precision machinery" is "10", and the evaluation value of "Weight balance: rear load" is "2". In this case, the determination unit 12 calculates "6 (= (10 + 2) / 2)" as the statistical value of the evaluation value of the remote driver L001. Similarly, the determination unit 12 calculates the statistical value of the evaluation value of the remote driver L002 as "4.5 (= (5 + 4) / 2)", and the statistical value of the evaluation value of the remote driver L003 as "9.5 (= (9 + 10) / 2)". Then, the determination unit 12 determines the remote driver L003 with the highest calculated statistical value of the evaluation value as the executing remote driver.

[0074] Next, an example of the flow of processing by the information processing device 10 will be described using the flowchart in Fig. 2. Note that the purpose here is to explain the flow of processing. Details of each process have been described above, so explanations here will be omitted as appropriate.

[0075] In S10, the information processing device 10 acquires mobile object information indicating at least one of the loading status and the boarding status of a remote-driving compatible mobile object that can be driven remotely and by a boarded driver. In S11, the information processing device 10 determines a remote driver who will remotely drive the remote-driving compatible mobile object based on the mobile object information acquired in S10.

[0076] <Action and effect> According to the information processing device 10 of the second embodiment, it is possible to achieve the same effects as those of the information processing device 10 of the first embodiment.

[0077] Furthermore, the information processing device 10 can determine an effective remote driver who will remotely drive the remote-driving-enabled mobile object based on mobile object information indicating at least one of the load capacity, type of load, and weight balance of the remote-driving-enabled mobile object. When the load capacity, type of load, weight balance, etc. differ, the skills and experience required of the remote driver also change. The information processing device 10 can determine an effective remote driver appropriate for the loading situation identified by the load capacity, type of load, weight balance, etc. of the remote-driving-enabled mobile object.

[0078] Furthermore, the information processing device 10 can determine an effective remote driver who will remotely drive the remote-driving-enabled vehicle based on vehicle information indicating at least one of the number of passengers, passenger attributes, total weight of passengers, etc., and weight balance of the remote-driving-enabled vehicle. When the number of passengers, passenger attributes, total weight of passengers, etc., weight balance, etc. differ, the skills and experience required of the remote driver also change. The information processing device 10 can determine an effective remote driver appropriate for the riding situation specified by the number of passengers, passenger attributes, total weight of passengers, etc., and weight balance of the remote-driving-enabled vehicle.

[0079] <<Third embodiment>> In the third embodiment, the information processing device 10 determines the execution remote driver based on at least one of the loading status and the boarding status, as well as at least one of the aisle status, the environmental status, and the communication status. This will be described in detail below.

[0080] The mobile object information acquired by the acquisition unit 11 indicates at least one of the loading status and boarding status of the remote driving compatible mobile object, as well as at least one of the passage status, environmental status, and communication status of the remote driving compatible mobile object.

[0081] "Route status" indicates the status (characteristics) of at least one of the current position on the route that the remote driving-enabled mobile body is traveling on and the position that it will pass through in the future. The route indicates at least one of roads, air routes, and sea routes. Depending on the route status of the remote driving-enabled mobile body, the skills and experience required of the remote driver also change.

[0082] The aisle status may indicate, for example, at least one of the following: ·Aisle width ·Slope of the aisle -Curvature radius of the passageway ·Paved or not Road conditions (frozen, snowy, puddles, etc.)

[0083] Here, a description will be given of an example of a means by which the acquisition unit 11 acquires information indicating the path conditions of the remote-driving compatible mobile object. Note that the example described here is merely an example, and the present invention is not limited to this.

[0084] For example, map information indicating the above characteristics at each point of each of a plurality of passages may be stored in advance in the information processing device 10. The acquisition unit 11 can acquire information indicating the current position of the remote-driving-capable mobile object from the remote-driving-capable mobile object system. Then, the acquisition unit 11 can refer to the map information to identify the above characteristics at the current position of the remote-driving-capable mobile object.

[0085] As another example, a center system that manages multiple remote-driving-capable mobile objects may pre-register the travel routes of the remote-driving-capable mobile objects for each day. Registration may be performed by an operator. For example, an operator may use a route search device or the like to determine the travel routes of each remote-driving-capable mobile object for that day based on the business content of each remote-driving-capable mobile object for that day, and register the determined travel routes in the center system. The acquisition unit 11 may then acquire information indicating the travel routes of the remote-driving-capable mobile objects registered in the center system for that day from the center system. The remote-driving-capable mobile object will travel along the predetermined travel routes for that day. The acquisition unit 11 may also acquire information indicating the current location of the remote-driving-capable mobile object from the remote-driving-capable mobile object system. The acquisition unit 11 may then refer to the travel routes of the remote-driving-capable mobile object for that day to identify points that the remote-driving-capable mobile object will pass in the future (after its current location). The acquisition unit 11 may then refer to the map information to identify the characteristics of the locations that the remote-driving-capable mobile object will pass in the future.

[0086] As another example, the acquisition unit 11 may acquire an image of at least one of the current position and the future position of the remote-driving-capable mobile object identified by the above method. The acquisition unit 11 may then analyze the image to identify the road surface condition of the passageway. This image analysis can be achieved using widely known techniques. The acquisition unit 11 may, for example, acquire an image generated by a surveillance camera installed at the current position of the remote-driving-capable mobile object or a future position where the remote-driving-capable mobile object will pass. The surveillance camera and the information processing device 10 may be communicatively connected. The surveillance camera is installed in a position and orientation that captures the passageway of the remote-driving-capable mobile object. The installation locations of each of the multiple surveillance cameras may be registered in the information processing device 10 in advance. In this case, the acquisition unit 11 can identify the surveillance camera installed at the current position of the remote-driving-capable mobile object or a future position where the remote-driving-capable mobile object will pass, based on the information registered in the information processing device 10. Additionally, the remote-driving-capable mobile object may be equipped with a camera that captures the surrounding passageway. The acquisition unit 11 may then acquire the image generated by the camera from the system of the remote-driving-capable mobile object.

[0087] The "environmental situation" indicates at least one of the current surrounding environment of the remote driving-enabled mobile body and the future surrounding environment. Depending on the environmental situation of the remote driving-enabled mobile body, the skills and experience required of the remote driver also change.

[0088] The environmental conditions may indicate, for example, at least one of the following: ·weather ·rainfall ·wind speed

[0089] Here, a description will be given of an example of a means by which the acquisition unit 11 acquires information indicating the environmental situation of the remote-driving compatible mobile object. Note that the example described here is merely an example, and the present invention is not limited to this.

[0090] For example, current or future environmental conditions such as weather, rainfall, and wind speed at each of a plurality of locations may be provided in advance by a predetermined server (weather information providing server). The acquisition unit 11 can acquire information indicating the current location of the remote-driving-capable mobile object from the remote-driving-capable mobile object system. The acquisition unit 11 can then acquire the information about the current location of the remote-driving-capable mobile object from the server.

[0091] As another example, a center system that manages multiple remote-driving-capable mobile objects may pre-register the travel routes of the remote-driving-capable mobile objects for each day. Registration may be performed by an operator. For example, an operator may use a route search device or the like to determine the travel routes of each remote-driving-capable mobile object for that day based on the business content of each remote-driving-capable mobile object for that day, and register the determined travel routes in the center system. The acquisition unit 11 may then acquire, from the center system, information indicating the travel routes of the remote-driving-capable mobile objects registered in the center system for that day. The remote-driving-capable mobile objects will travel along the predetermined travel routes for that day. The acquisition unit 11 may also acquire information indicating the current location of the remote-driving-capable mobile object from the remote-driving-capable mobile object system. The acquisition unit 11 may then refer to the travel routes of the remote-driving-capable mobile object for that day and identify points that the remote-driving-capable mobile object will pass in the future (after its current location). The acquisition unit 11 may then acquire, from the server, the information regarding the locations that the remote-driving-capable mobile object will pass in the future.

[0092] "Communication status" indicates the status of communication between the system of the remote driving-enabled mobile body and the remote driving system. Depending on the communication status, inconveniences such as image distortion may occur. Depending on the communication status of the remote driving-enabled mobile body, the skills and experience required of the remote driver also change. The communication status is indicated, for example, by the communication speed. The communication speed can be measured using widely known technology. The acquisition unit 11 can acquire the communication speed measured by a specified device.

[0093] The determination unit 12 determines the executing remote driver based on at least one of the loading status and boarding status of the remote driving compatible mobile body, as well as at least one of the passage status, environmental status, and communication status of the remote driving compatible mobile body.

[0094] The determination unit 12 determines a remote driver who is excellent at remote driving in the situation indicated by the mobile object information as the effective remote driver who will remotely drive the remote driving-compatible mobile object. There are various means for determining an effective remote driver from among a plurality of remote drivers registered in advance, and one example will be described below.

[0095] In one example, as shown in FIG. 5, the remote driving characteristics of each of a plurality of remote drivers are registered in advance in the information processing device 10. The remote driving characteristics indicate evaluation values ​​of remote driving in various situations. As an example, FIG. 5 shows evaluation values ​​of remote driving in various loading situations defined by load capacity, type of load, and weight balance. Also, as an example, FIG. 5 shows evaluation values ​​of remote driving in path and environmental situations such as "frozen road," "rain," "mountain road," "uphill," and "downhill." In the example of FIG. 5, evaluation values ​​are shown as numbers from 1 to 10. The higher the number, the higher the evaluation. For example, it is shown that the remote driver with remote driver ID "L001" has an evaluation value of "10" in the "frozen road" situation.

[0096] The evaluation value of each item for each remote driver can be determined by various means, as explained in the second embodiment.

[0097] The determination unit 12 can determine, as the executing remote driver, a remote driver whose evaluation value in the "status of the remote-driving-compatible mobile object" indicated in the mobile object information acquired by the acquisition unit 11 satisfies the first determination condition. This processing is as described in the second embodiment.

[0098] Other configurations of the information processing device 10 of the third embodiment can be similar to the configurations of the information processing device 10 of the first and second embodiments.

[0099] The information processing device 10 of the third embodiment can achieve the same effects as the information processing device 10 of the first and second embodiments. Furthermore, the information processing device 10 can determine an effective remote driver based on at least one of the loading status and the boarding status, as well as at least one of the aisle status, the environmental status, and the communication status. Such an information processing device 10 can determine an effective remote driver that is suitable for the status of the remote-driving-compatible moving object, which is identified based not only on the loading status and the boarding status, but also on at least one of the aisle status, the environmental status, and the communication status.

[0100] <<Fourth embodiment>> The information processing device 10 of the fourth embodiment has a function of estimating the timing when a remote-driving compatible moving object will need to be remotely driven, and determining an effective remote driver who will remotely drive the remote-driving compatible moving object before the estimated timing. This will be described in detail below.

[0101] The determination unit 12 estimates the timing at which remote driving will be necessary (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as "remote driving required timing") based on the driving characteristics of the driver on board the remote driving capable mobile object, the mobile object information of the remote driving capable mobile object, and the driving schedule of the remote driving capable mobile object. The determination unit 12 may further use location information (information indicating the current location) of the remote driving capable mobile object for the above estimation. Then, the determination unit 12 determines an effective remote driver who will remotely drive the remote driving capable mobile object at the remote driving required timing, prior to the estimated remote driving required timing.

[0102] "Driving characteristics of onboard drivers" indicates evaluation values ​​of "driving while onboard a remotely driven vehicle" in various situations. The driving characteristics of onboard drivers can be expressed using the same items and evaluation values ​​as the remote driving characteristics described above. Each onboard driver has different driving characteristics. For example, some are good at driving with a front load, while others are good at driving with a rear load. Also, some are good at driving in the rain, while others are not good at driving in the rain. Furthermore, autonomous driving AI also has driving characteristics that depend on how it learns. Furthermore, when there are multiple autonomous driving AIs, their driving characteristics may differ depending on how they each learn.

[0103] In one example, information indicating the driving characteristics of the driver is registered in advance in the information processing device 10. The determination unit 12 can acquire the information indicating the driving characteristics of the driver registered in the information processing device 10.

[0104] The "mobile body information of the remote-driving compatible mobile body" is as explained in the first to third embodiments.

[0105] The "location information of the remote-driving-capable mobile object" indicates the current location of the remote-driving-capable mobile object. The determination unit 12 can acquire information indicating the current location of the remote-driving-capable mobile object using the method described in the third embodiment.

[0106] The "travel schedule of the remote-driving-enabled mobile body" indicates the route that the remote-driving-enabled mobile body will take on that day. The travel schedule of the remote-driving-enabled mobile body may further indicate the estimated time that the remote-driving-enabled mobile body will pass through each of multiple points on the route.

[0107] In one example, a center system that manages multiple remote-driving-capable mobile objects may pre-register the driving schedules of each remote-driving-capable mobile object for each day. The registration may be performed by an operator. For example, the operator may use a route search device or the like to determine the driving schedule of each remote-driving-capable mobile object for that day based on the business content of each remote-driving-capable mobile object for that day, and register the schedule in the center system. The determination unit 12 may then acquire information indicating the driving schedule for that day of the remote-driving-capable mobile objects registered in the center system from the center system. Note that the remote-driving-capable mobile objects will travel according to the pre-determined driving schedule for that day.

[0108] Next, an example of a process for estimating the timing when remote driving becomes necessary (remote driving necessary timing) based on the above-mentioned information will be described.

[0109] First, the determination unit 12 determines whether the future conditions (mainly aisle conditions and environmental conditions) of the remote-driving-capable mobile object indicated by the mobile object information include a condition (hereinafter referred to as "first condition") in which the on-board driver's evaluation value is below a threshold. If so, the determination unit 12 estimates the timing when the remote-driving-capable mobile object will enter the first condition as the timing when remote driving is required. The timing when the first condition will occur may be indicated by time or by the elapsed time from the current time.

[0110] For example, the determination unit 12 may refer to the estimated times for passing through each of a plurality of points on the travel route indicated in the travel schedule, and identify the time at which the point at which the first situation will occur will be passed. Then, the determination unit 12 may estimate the identified time as the timing at which the first situation will occur. Alternatively, the determination unit 12 may estimate the "time required for the remote-driving-capable mobile object to travel along the travel route from the current position of the remote-driving-capable mobile object to the point at which the first situation will occur" using a predetermined technology. This estimation can be realized using a travel time calculation technology used in widely known route search technology. Then, the determination unit 12 may estimate the estimated time as the timing at which the first situation will occur (the elapsed time from the present time). Alternatively, the determination unit 12 may estimate the time at which the first situation will occur after the "estimated time" has elapsed from the "current time" as the timing at which the first situation will occur.

[0111] The "before the timing when remote driving is required" may be any timing before the timing when remote driving is required, and the specific timing is not limited. However, if it is a sufficient time before the timing when remote driving is required, it is preferable because it ensures time for preparation for remote driving by the determined execution remote driver.

[0112] Here, an example of the timing at which the determination unit 12 estimates the timing at which remote driving is required and determines the remote driver to be performed will be described.

[0113] The determination unit 12 can estimate the timing when remote driving is required and determine the remote driver to be performed as described above, once the driving characteristics of the on-board driver, the mobile body information, and the mobile body's travel schedule are all collected.

[0114] The driving characteristics of the driver do not change from day to day but are registered in advance. The vehicle information and the vehicle driving schedule are determined based on the work content of the remote-driving-enabled vehicle on that day, and may change from day to day.

[0115] Therefore, the determination unit 12 can estimate the timing when remote driving is required and determine the remote driver as described above after the mobile unit information and driving schedule of the remote-driving-capable mobile unit for the day have been determined and registered in the center system. The mobile unit information and driving schedule of the remote-driving-capable mobile unit for the day are determined the day before or early on the day and registered in the center system. The determination and registration may be performed by an operator or a computer.

[0116] In one example, in response to the registration of the mobile body information and driving schedule of the remote driving-enabled mobile body for the day, the center system may transmit the registered information to the information processing device 10. Then, in response to receiving the registered information from the center system, the determination unit 12 may execute the above-described estimation of the timing when remote driving is required and the determination of the executing remote driver.

[0117] Another example will be described below. The determination unit 12 may estimate the timing when remote driving is required and determine the remote driver to be performed as described above while the remote driving-enabled moving object is traveling on the day.

[0118] In one example, the determination unit 12 can estimate a point where the remote-driving-capable mobile object will pass in a predetermined time based on the travel schedule of the remote-driving-capable mobile object for that day and the current location of the remote-driving-capable mobile object.The determination unit 12 then determines whether remote driving is required at the estimated point.If it is determined that remote driving is required at the estimated point, the determination unit 12 determines an effective remote driver.

[0119] In this example, the determination unit 12 determines whether remote driving is necessary at a certain point a predetermined time before the remote driving-capable mobile object passes that point, and can determine an effective remote driver as necessary. The predetermined time is preferably a sufficient time that takes into consideration the preparation time for remote driving by the determined effective remote driver, etc.

[0120] Next, a modification of the fourth embodiment will be described.

[0121] The determination unit 12 may determine the effective remote driver before the timing when remote driving is required, and then execute a reservation process to reserve remote driving by the determined effective remote driver.

[0122] The reservation process includes at least one of registering in a reservation table and notifying a remote driver of the reservation.

[0123] The "reservation table" shows the reservation status of remote driving for each of multiple remote drivers. The executing remote driver performs remote driving at the reserved time. The executing remote driver can understand the timing of remote driving based on the reservation table. The executing remote driver can then take a seat in a designated position in the remote driving system before that time and begin checking the images and audio transmitted from the remote driving compatible mobile body system. As a result, the executing remote driver can understand the status of the remote driving compatible mobile body shortly before the time when remote driving is required, and can be in a state where he or she can accept switching to remote driving at any time.

[0124] The reservation table can indicate the reserved date and time. The reservation table can also indicate other reservation details (such as information identifying the remote driving capable vehicle that is scheduled to be remotely driven). The determination unit 12 registers the reservation date and time and other reservation details in the reservation table of the determined executing remote driver. For example, the determination unit 12 can register the time when remote driving is required as the reservation date and time.

[0125] Notification to the executing remote driver is realized using widely known technologies such as email or the push notification function of an application. The notification content may indicate the timing when remote driving is required or the status of the remote-driving-capable vehicle at the timing indicated in the vehicle information. The executing remote driver can determine the timing of remote driving based on the notification content. The executing remote driver can then take a seat in a predetermined position in the remote driving system prior to that timing and begin checking the images and audio transmitted from the remote-driving-capable vehicle system. As a result, the executing remote driver can determine the status of the remote-driving-capable vehicle shortly before the timing when remote driving is required and be ready to switch to remote driving at any time. Furthermore, the executing remote driver can determine the status of the remote-driving-capable vehicle at the timing when remote driving is required based on the notification content. The executing remote driver can then make various preparations based on the determined information.

[0126] Other configurations of the information processing device 10 of the fourth embodiment can be similar to the configurations of the information processing device 10 of the first to third embodiments.

[0127] The information processing device 10 of the fourth embodiment can achieve the same effects as the information processing devices 10 of the first to third embodiments. Furthermore, the information processing device 10 can estimate the timing when remote driving is required and determine an effective remote driver before the timing when remote driving is required. If an effective remote driver were determined when remote driving became necessary, the remote driver might not be ready in time, which could result in a problem of the switch to remote driving not proceeding smoothly. In this case, the remote driving-capable mobile object would stop on the spot and wait for the remote driver to become ready. As a result, problems such as delays in the travel schedule of the remote driving-capable mobile object or traffic congestion at that location could occur. The information processing device 10 can estimate the timing when remote driving is required and determine an effective remote driver before the timing when remote driving is required, thereby suppressing such inconveniences.

[0128] Furthermore, the information processing device 10 can estimate the timing when remote driving is required based on the driving characteristics of the driver on board, mobile object information, the travel schedule of the remote driving-enabled mobile object, the current position of the remote driving-enabled mobile object, etc. Such an information processing device 10 can accurately estimate the timing when remote driving is required.

[0129] Furthermore, the information processing device 10 can estimate the timing when remote driving is required and determine the effective remote driver at the characteristic timing described above. According to such an information processing device 10, the effective remote driver can be determined before the timing when remote driving is required.

[0130] Furthermore, the information processing device 10 can execute the reservation process described above. Such an information processing device 10 can manage the remote driving to be performed by each remote driver in the future. Each remote driver can then understand the details of the remote driving that he or she will be performing in the future and prepare for that remote driving in advance. As a result, it becomes possible to smoothly switch to remote driving when remote driving is required.

[0131] <<Fifth embodiment>> The information processing device 10 of the fifth embodiment has a function of determining an alternative remote driver to execute remote driving when the determined remote driver is unable to execute remote driving, as will be described in detail below.

[0132] The determination unit 12 detects that the determined executing remote driver is unable to execute remote driving of the remote driving compatible moving object. This detection can be realized by various means. An example will be described below.

[0133] First detection example In this example, the determination unit 12 estimates the timing when remote driving is required, and determines the effective remote driver who will perform remote driving at the estimated timing when remote driving is required. This process is as described in the fourth embodiment.

[0134] After determining the execution remote driver, the determination unit 12 refers to the reservation table described in the fourth embodiment and checks whether the determined execution remote driver has a reservation for another remote driving at the estimated remote driving required timing. If the reservation is made, the determination unit 12 detects that the determined execution remote driver cannot perform remote driving of the remote driving compatible mobile object. On the other hand, if the reservation is not made, the determination unit 12 does not detect that the determined execution remote driver cannot perform remote driving of the remote driving compatible mobile object.

[0135] Second detection example In this example, the determination unit 12 determines whether remote driving is required at a certain location a predetermined time before the remote driving-enabled moving object passes the location, and determines an executing remote driver as necessary. This process is the same as that described in the fourth embodiment. The predetermined time is, for example, 5 minutes, 10 minutes, etc., but is not limited to these.

[0136] After determining the execution remote driver, the determination unit 12 checks the current status of the determined execution remote driver. For example, the determination unit 12 may check whether the determined execution remote driver is present or absent. The determination unit 12 may perform this check using image analysis, may perform this check based on the registration details in an attendance management tool that registers each driver's presence / absence status, or may perform this check using other means. If the driver is absent, the determination unit 12 detects that the determined execution remote driver is unable to perform remote driving of the remote driving-enabled mobile object. On the other hand, if the driver is present, the determination unit 12 does not detect that the determined execution remote driver is unable to perform remote driving of the remote driving-enabled mobile object.

[0137] Additionally, the determination unit 12 may check whether the determined execution remote driver is currently remotely driving another remote-driving-enabled mobile object. The determination unit 12 may perform this check using image analysis, may perform this check based on the registered information in a work management tool that registers whether each person is currently remotely driving, or may perform this check by other means. If the determined execution remote driver is currently remotely driving another remote-driving-enabled mobile object, the determination unit 12 detects that the determined execution remote driver is unable to remotely drive the remote-driving-enabled mobile object. On the other hand, if the determined execution remote driver is not currently remotely driving another remote-driving-enabled mobile object, the determination unit 12 does not detect that the determined execution remote driver is unable to remotely drive the remote-driving-enabled mobile object.

[0138] ○Third detection example In this example, the remote driver can cancel the remote driving registered in the reservation table described in the fourth embodiment. Cancellation of a reservation by the remote driver can be realized using widely known technology. When the determination unit 12 detects that a remote driving reservation registered in the reservation table has been canceled, it accordingly detects that the executing remote driver who reserved the remote driving cannot perform the remote driving.

[0139] When the determination unit 12 detects that the determined executing remote driver cannot perform remote driving of the remote driving-compatible mobile object, the determination unit 12 determines an executing remote driver to perform the remote driving instead. There are various methods for determining an alternative executing remote driver, and one example will be described below.

[0140] First, the determination unit 12 extracts a remote driver who can perform the remote driving from among the remote drivers excluding the execution remote drivers who cannot perform the remote driving. An example of this extraction will be described below, but the present invention is not limited to this example.

[0141] In the case of the first detection example described above, the determination unit 12 may refer to the reservation table described in the fourth embodiment and extract a remote driver who has not been booked for remote driving at the estimated remote driving required timing.

[0142] In the case of the second detection example, the determination unit 12 may extract a remote driver who is present in the vehicle. Alternatively, the determination unit 12 may extract a remote driver who is not performing remote driving of another remote driving-enabled mobile object.

[0143] In the case of the above third detection example, the determination unit 12 may refer to the reservation table described in the fourth embodiment and extract a remote driver who does not have a reservation for remote driving at the time when the canceled remote driving is performed (the timing when remote driving is required).

[0144] The determination unit 12 determines an execution remote driver who will perform the remote driving instead from among the remote drivers extracted as described above. For example, the determination unit 12 refers to a database in which the remote driving characteristics of each of a plurality of remote drivers are registered, and determines a remote driver whose remote driving characteristics satisfy conditions as a replacement for the determined remote driver.

[0145] The determination unit 12 can determine a remote driver whose evaluation value in the "status of the remote driving compatible mobile body" indicated in the mobile body information acquired by the acquisition unit 11 satisfies the second determination condition as the alternative executing remote driver.

[0146] The second determination condition may be, for example, "the remote driver has the highest evaluation value among the remote drivers extracted in the above process." Alternatively, the second determination condition may be, for example, "the evaluation value is equal to or greater than a reference value." If there are multiple remote drivers who satisfy the second determination condition, the determination unit 12 can determine one of them as the alternative executing remote driver based on a predetermined rule. The predetermined rule may be various, for example, random selection or other rules.

[0147] Other configurations of the information processing device 10 of the fifth embodiment can be similar to the configurations of the information processing device 10 of the first to fourth embodiments.

[0148] The information processing device 10 of the fifth embodiment can achieve the same effects as the information processing device 10 of the first to fourth embodiments. Furthermore, the information processing device 10 can detect that the determined remote driver is unable to perform remote driving of the remote driving-enabled moving object. Then, the information processing device 10 can determine an alternative remote driver in response to the detection. According to such an information processing device 10, even if the determined remote driver is unable to perform remote driving of the remote driving-enabled moving object, an alternative remote driver can be quickly determined.

[0149] <<Sixth embodiment>> The information processing device 10 of the sixth embodiment has a function of notifying the driver of the remote-driving-enabled moving object of the estimated timing when remote driving is required, as will be described in detail below.

[0150] 6 is an example of a functional block diagram of the information processing device 10. As shown in the figure, the information processing device 10 includes an acquisition unit 11, a determination unit 12, and a notification unit 13.

[0151] The notification unit 13 notifies the driver of guidance information recommending switching to remote driving at the timing when remote driving is required estimated by the determination unit 12. The notification unit 13 makes the notification before the timing when remote driving is required estimated by the determination unit 12. The estimation of the timing when remote driving is required by the determination unit 12 is as described in the fourth embodiment.

[0152] The guidance information indicates the timing when remote driving is required estimated by the determination unit 12. The guidance information also indicates guidance recommending switching to remote driving at the timing when remote driving is required. The guidance information may be an image or sound including a message.

[0153] The notification unit 13 transmits and outputs guidance information to the system of the remote driving-enabled vehicle or the mobile device of the driver. Examples of the mobile device include, but are not limited to, a smartphone, a mobile phone, a tablet device, a smart watch, or other wearable device. Such notifications are realized using well-known technologies.

[0154] Other configurations of the information processing device 10 of the sixth embodiment can be similar to the configurations of the information processing device 10 of the first to fifth embodiments.

[0155] The information processing device 10 of the sixth embodiment can achieve the same effects as the information processing devices 10 of the first to fifth embodiments. Furthermore, the information processing device 10 can notify the driver of the remote driving-enabled vehicle of the estimated timing when remote driving is required. The information processing device 10 can then guide the driver to switch to remote driving at the timing when remote driving is required. With such an information processing device 10, the driver can switch to remote driving at the appropriate timing.

[0156] <<Modifications>> Here, a description will be given of modified examples that can be applied to the first to sixth embodiments. These modified examples also achieve the same effects as the first to sixth embodiments.

[0157] As explained in the second embodiment, the system of the remote-driving-capable mobile body can switch to remote driving in response to a switching input by a driver who is on board and driving the remote-driving-capable mobile body. In a modified example, the system of the remote-driving-capable mobile body switches to remote driving in response to the switching input made under predetermined permission conditions.

[0158] The predetermined permission condition is that "the location of the remote driving-enabled vehicle is within the remote driving permission area." In this variation, the area where remote driving is permitted (the remote driving permission area) is determined in advance. The system of the remote driving-enabled vehicle determines whether the location of the system (the location of the remote driving-enabled vehicle) is within the remote driving permission area. The system of the remote driving-enabled vehicle then switches to remote driving in response to a switch input by the onboard driver made when the location of the system (the location of the remote driving-enabled vehicle) is within the remote driving permission area. Even if the onboard driver makes a switch input when the location of the system (the location of the remote driving-enabled vehicle) is not within the remote driving permission area, the system of the remote driving-enabled vehicle does not switch to remote driving. In this case, the system of the remote driving-enabled vehicle may issue an error notification, such as "Switching to remote driving cannot be performed because the vehicle is outside the remote driving permission area," via an output device (display, projection device, speaker, etc.) equipped with the system.

[0159] Although this disclosure has been described above with reference to the embodiments, this disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiments. Various modifications that can be understood by those skilled in the art can be made to the configuration and details of this disclosure within the scope of this disclosure. Furthermore, each embodiment can be combined with other embodiments as appropriate.

[0160] In addition, in the flowcharts used in the above explanation, multiple steps (processes) are described in order. However, the order of the steps performed in each embodiment is not limited to the order described. In each embodiment, the order of the steps shown in the drawings can be changed as long as it does not cause any problems in terms of the content.

[0161] A part or all of the above-described embodiments can be described as, but not limited to, the following supplementary notes. 1. An acquisition means for acquiring mobile object information indicating at least one of a loading status and a boarding status of a mobile object that can be driven remotely and by an on-board driver; a determination means for determining a remote driver who will remotely drive the mobile object based on the mobile object information; An information processing device having the above. 2. The loading situation is as follows: 1. An information processing device according to claim 1, which indicates at least one of a load amount, a type of load, and a weight balance. 3. The boarding status is as follows: 3. The information processing device according to 1 or 2, which indicates at least one of the number of passengers, attributes of the passengers, total weight including passengers and luggage, and weight balance. 4. An information processing device according to any one of 1 to 3, wherein the mobile object information further indicates at least one of passage conditions, environmental conditions, and communication conditions. 5. The determining means 5. An information processing device according to any one of 1 to 4, which, when it is detected that the determined remote driver is unable to perform remote driving of the mobile object, refers to a database in which the remote driving characteristics of each of the multiple remote drivers are registered, and determines, as a replacement for the determined remote driver, a remote driver whose remote driving characteristics meet the conditions among the remote drivers who are able to perform remote driving of the mobile object. 6. The determining means estimating a timing when remote driving will be required based on the driving characteristics of the driver, the mobile body information, and a driving schedule of the mobile body; 6. The information processing device according to any one of 1 to 5, which determines the remote driver who will remotely drive the moving object at the timing before the timing. 7. The determining means 7. The information processing device according to 6, which executes a reservation process for registering the execution of remote driving by the determined remote driver in a reservation table. 8. An information processing device as described in 6 or 7, further comprising a notification means for notifying the driver of guidance information recommending switching to remote driving at the timing. 9. One or more computers: Acquire mobile object information indicating at least one of a loading status and an onboard status of a mobile object that can be driven remotely and by an onboard driver; An information processing method for determining a remote driver who will remotely drive the mobile object based on the mobile object information. 10. Computer an acquisition means for acquiring mobile body information indicating at least one of a loading status and a boarding status of a mobile body that can be driven remotely and by an on-board driver; a determination means for determining a remote driver who will remotely drive the mobile object based on the mobile object information; A program that functions as a

[0162] Some or all of Supplements 2 to 8 that are dependent on the information processing device of Supplement 1 described above may also be dependent on the information processing method of Supplement 9 and the program of Supplement 10 in the same dependent relationship as Supplement 1 and Supplements 2 to 8. Furthermore, within the scope of each of the above-mentioned embodiments, some or all of the configurations described as Supplements can be realized in various hardware, software, various recording means for recording software, or systems. [Explanation of symbols]

[0163] 10. Information processing equipment 11 Acquisition Department 12 Decision Section 13 Notification Department 1A processor 2A Memory 3A input / output I / F 4A peripheral circuit 5A Bus

Claims

1. an acquisition means for acquiring mobile body information indicating at least one of a loading status and a boarding status of a mobile body that can be driven remotely and by an on-board driver; a determination means for determining a remote driver who will remotely drive the mobile object based on the mobile object information; An information processing device having the above.

2. The loading situation is:

2. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein at least one of a load amount, a type of load, and a weight balance is displayed.

3. The boarding status is: The information processing device according to claim 1 , wherein at least one of the number of passengers, attributes of the passengers, total weight including passengers and luggage, and weight balance is displayed.

4. The information processing device according to claim 1 , wherein the mobile object information further indicates at least one of a passage condition, an environmental condition, and a communication condition.

5. The determining means 2. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein, when it is detected that the determined remote driver is unable to perform remote driving of the mobile body, a database in which the remote driving characteristics of each of the multiple remote drivers are registered is referenced, and a remote driver whose remote driving characteristics satisfy the conditions among the remote drivers who are able to perform remote driving of the mobile body is determined to be a replacement for the determined remote driver.

6. The determining means estimating a timing when remote driving will be required based on the driving characteristics of the driver, the mobile body information, and a driving schedule of the mobile body; The information processing device according to claim 1 , wherein the remote driver who remotely drives the mobile object at the timing is determined before the timing.

7. The determining means The information processing device according to claim 6, wherein a reservation process is executed to register the execution of remote driving by the determined remote driver in a reservation table.

8. The information processing device according to claim 6 or 7, further comprising a notification means for notifying the driver of guidance information recommending switching to remote driving at the timing.

9. One or more computers Acquire mobile object information indicating at least one of a loading status and an onboard status of a mobile object that can be driven remotely and by an onboard driver; An information processing method for determining a remote driver who will remotely drive the mobile object based on the mobile object information.

10. Computer, an acquisition means for acquiring mobile body information indicating at least one of a loading status and a boarding status of a mobile body that can be driven remotely and by an on-board driver; a determination means for determining a remote driver who will remotely drive the mobile object based on the mobile object information; A program that functions as a

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