Information processing device, information processing method, and program

Abstract

This system provides a mechanism to make the transportation of objects using mobile vehicles more efficient. [Solution] An information processing device for generating movement instructions for a mobile body that carries and transports objects, comprising: a first acquisition unit that acquires information about the objects to be transported for each space; a second acquisition unit that acquires information indicating whether the mobile body is likely to move in accordance with the movement instructions; and a generation unit that generates the movement instructions for the mobile body based on the information about the objects to be transported and the information indicating the tendencies.

Description

Technical Field

[0007] ,

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

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, many technologies related to moving objects such as drones and autonomous driving technologies have been developed. One of them is a technology for efficiently transporting a transport target using a moving object.

[0003] For example, Patent Document 1 below discloses a technology of a vehicle dispatching system that predicts the demand for taxis for each area and preferentially instructs taxis close to the area where the occurrence of demand is predicted to dispatch to that area.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] However, in the technology disclosed in Patent Document 1 above, it is assumed that a driver (i.e., a crew member) follows the instructions of the vehicle dispatching system, and the existence of a driver who does not follow the instructions is not assumed. Therefore, a driver who does not follow the instructions of the vehicle dispatching system may make an unexpected movement for the vehicle dispatching system, resulting in competition for demand with drivers who follow the instructions of the vehicle dispatching system, and the overall vehicle dispatching plan may become inefficient.

[0006] Therefore, the present disclosure provides a mechanism for making the transportation of a transport target using a moving object more efficient.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] According to this disclosure, an information processing device is provided for generating movement instructions for a mobile body that carries and transports objects, comprising: a first acquisition unit that acquires information about the objects to be transported for each space; a second acquisition unit that acquires information indicating whether the mobile body is likely to move in accordance with the movement instructions; and a generation unit that generates the movement instructions for the mobile body based on the information about the objects to be transported and the information indicating the tendencies.

[0008] Furthermore, the present disclosure provides an information processing method for generating movement instructions for a mobile body that carries and transports objects, the method being performed by a processor, which includes: acquiring information about the objects to be transported for each space; acquiring information indicating whether the mobile body is likely to move in accordance with the movement instructions; and generating the movement instructions for the mobile body based on the information about the objects to be transported and the information indicating the tendencies.

[0009] Furthermore, according to this disclosure, a program is provided to cause a computer that controls an information processing device that generates movement instructions for a mobile body carrying transported objects to be transported to function as a first acquisition unit that acquires information about the transported objects for each space, a second acquisition unit that acquires information indicating whether or not the mobile body is likely to move in accordance with the movement instructions, and a generation unit that generates the movement instructions for the mobile body based on the information about the transported objects and the information indicating the tendencies. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] As described above, this disclosure provides a mechanism for more efficient transportation of objects using a mobile body. It should be noted that the above effects are not necessarily limited, and any of the effects described herein, or other effects that can be gleaned from this specification, may be achieved in conjunction with or in lieu of the above effects. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0011] [Figure 1]This figure shows an example of the overall configuration of a vehicle dispatch system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] This is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the vehicle dispatch control device according to this embodiment. [Figure 3] This figure shows an example of the dispatch mode selection screen according to this embodiment. [Figure 4] This figure shows an example of the dispatch information input screen for the fully automatic dispatch mode according to this embodiment. [Figure 5] This figure shows an example of the dispatch information input screen for the semi-automatic dispatch mode according to this embodiment. [Figure 6] This figure shows an example of the dispatch information input screen for the manual dispatch mode according to this embodiment. [Figure 7] This figure illustrates an example of demand forecasting according to this embodiment. [Figure 8] This figure illustrates an example of a method for calculating the degree of dependence on the dispatch system according to this embodiment. [Figure 9] This figure shows an example of a navigation screen according to this embodiment. [Figure 10] This figure shows an example of the calculation logic for the dispatch success index according to this embodiment. [Figure 11] This diagram illustrates the relationship between the dispatch success index and the supply and demand balance according to this embodiment. [Figure 12] This flowchart shows an example of the dispatch process flow executed in the dispatch control device according to this embodiment. [Figure 13] This flowchart shows an example of the flow of information update processing performed in the vehicle dispatch control device according to this embodiment. [Figure 14] This is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the information processing device according to this embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0012] While referring to the attached drawings below, the preferred embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail. In this specification and the drawings, components having substantially the same functional configuration are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions are omitted.

[0013] Note that the description will be made in the following order. 1. First 1.1. Overall configuration 1.2. Technical problems 2. Outline of the proposed technology 3. Example of functional configuration 4. Flow of processing 5. Example of hardware configuration 6. Summary

[0014] <<1. First>> <1.1. Overall configuration> FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the overall configuration of a vehicle dispatching system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 1, a vehicle dispatching system 1 involves a vehicle dispatching control device 100, a transport target 2, and a mobile body 3.

[0015] · Mobile body 3 The mobile body 3 moves arbitrarily in a real space such as on land, in the air, on water, underwater, or in outer space. For example, the mobile body 3 can be realized as a vehicle such as a truck, a bus, or a taxi, an aircraft such as an airplane or a drone, a ship, a submarine, or an artificial satellite. The mobile body 3 can load and transport any transport target. Examples of the transport target include humans, animals, or goods. In this specification, the mobile body 3 is a taxi, and the transport target 2 is a customer (human), and the use case of vehicle dispatching will be described.

[0016] As shown in FIG. 1, a vehicle log generation device 300 and a driver terminal 310 are associated with the taxi 3. Typically, the vehicle log generation device 300 and the driver terminal 310 are mounted on the taxi 3. As shown in FIG. 1, it is assumed that there are a plurality of taxis 3. That is, the vehicle dispatching system 1 includes a plurality of vehicle log generation devices 300 and a plurality of driver terminals 310.

[0017] The vehicle log generation device 300 generates a vehicle log for the taxi 3 on which the vehicle log generation device 300 is installed and transmits it to the dispatch control device 100.

[0018] The driver terminal 310 is typically operated by the driver. The driver terminal 310 outputs information received from the dispatch control device 100. The driver terminal 310 also transmits information input by the driver to the dispatch control device 100.

[0019] ·Customer 2 Customer 2 is an example of an item to be transported. As shown in Figure 1, Customer 2 is associated with a customer terminal 200. As shown in Figure 1, it is assumed that there are multiple Customer 2s. That is, the dispatch system 1 includes multiple customer terminals 200.

[0020] The customer terminal 200 is typically operated by customer 2. The customer terminal 200 outputs information received from the dispatch control device 100. The customer terminal 200 also transmits information entered by customer 2 to the dispatch control device 100.

[0021] • Dispatch control device 100 The dispatch control device 100 is an information processing device that performs dispatching. Dispatching refers to assigning a destination space to taxi 3 so that taxi 3 moves to a certain space at a certain time. Specifically, the dispatch control device 100 generates a movement instruction for taxi 3 (or the driver of taxi 3). Here, the movement instruction is information that instructs taxi 3 to move and pick up customer 2. The movement instruction includes at least information that indicates the location where customer 2 will be picked up and the destination space for taxi 3 (hereinafter also referred to as the dispatch location). Such a movement instruction will also be referred to as a dispatch instruction below.

[0022] <1.2.Technical issues> (1) First challenge The dispatch control device 100 typically predicts the demand for taxis 3 and dispatches taxis based on that demand. However, even if the dispatch instructions generated based on the prediction are followed, the probability of successful dispatch (i.e., the probability of successfully picking up a customer at the dispatch location) is not necessarily high. In other words, even if the driver moves to the dispatch location indicated in the dispatch instructions, there is no guarantee that they will be able to pick up customer 2. Considering that the wage system for taxi drivers 3 is basically a commission system, it is difficult for taxi drivers 3 to follow dispatch instructions that do not guarantee successful dispatch. This tendency is especially strong among experienced veteran drivers. Therefore, it is desirable to provide a mechanism that reduces the psychological barrier of being reluctant to follow the instructions of the dispatch system 1.

[0023] (2) Second challenge As explained in the first issue above, there are psychological obstacles to following the instructions of dispatch system 1. Therefore, some drivers may not follow the instructions of dispatch system 1. When drivers who do not follow the instructions of dispatch system 1 behave in ways that are unpredictable to dispatch system 1, they cannibalize demand with drivers who do follow the instructions of dispatch system 1, which may reduce the success rate of dispatch instructions and make the overall dispatch plan inefficient. Therefore, it is desirable to provide a mechanism that maintains a high success rate for dispatch instructions.

[0024] <<2. Overview of the proposed technology>> (1) First characteristic The first feature of the proposed technology is that it assigns dispatch instructions with a high success rate (dispatch success index, described later) to taxis 3 that have a high rate of following instructions from dispatch system 1 (dispatch system dependency, described later). As a result, taxis 3 that have a high rate of following instructions from dispatch system 1 can efficiently increase their sales. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the psychological barrier to following dispatch instructions and encourage drivers to follow instructions from dispatch system 1. This solves the first problem.

[0025] Furthermore, by encouraging drivers to follow the instructions of dispatch system 1, the percentage of drivers who follow the instructions of dispatch system 1 can be increased. This reduces the competition for demand between drivers who do not follow the instructions of dispatch system 1 and drivers who do, and as a result, it becomes possible to maintain a high success rate for dispatch instructions. In this way, the second problem is also solved.

[0026] (2) Second characteristic The second feature of the proposed technology concerns maintaining a high success rate for dispatch instructions.

[0027] The dispatch system 1 predicts the behavior of taxis 3 that do not follow the dispatch system 1's instructions and dispatches them based on the prediction results. For example, the dispatch system 1 displays a screen on the driver terminal 310 for inputting the travel schedule (dispatch information input screen, described later) to prompt the driver to input the travel schedule (dispatch information, described later). Furthermore, for taxis 3 from which travel schedule input has not been obtained, the dispatch system 1 predicts the travel schedule based on various information. In this way, the dispatch system 1 can dispatch taxis while taking into account the behavior of taxis 3 that do not follow the dispatch system 1's instructions. This makes it possible to prevent cannibalization of demand, and as a result, it is possible to maintain a high success rate for dispatch instructions. In this way, the second problem is solved.

[0028] The dispatch system 1 re-dispatches a vehicle and regenerates the dispatch instruction if the probability of success of the dispatch instruction decreases. For example, if the probability of success of the dispatch instruction decreases due to factors such as conflicting demand, the dispatch system 1 re-dispatches the vehicle. As a result, it becomes possible to maintain a high probability of success for the dispatch instruction. In this way, the second problem is solved.

[0029] <<3. Example of Functional Configuration>> Figure 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the dispatch control device 100 according to this embodiment. As shown in Figure 2, the dispatch control device 100 includes an open data storage unit 101, a dispatch request acquisition unit 102, a dispatch request storage unit 103, and a traffic information storage unit 104. The dispatch control device 100 also includes a vehicle log acquisition unit 111, a vehicle log storage unit 112, a dispatch history extraction unit 113, and a dispatch history storage unit 114. The dispatch control device 100 also includes a dispatch mode selection information acquisition unit 121, a dispatch information acquisition unit 122, and a dispatch information storage unit 123. The dispatch control device 100 also includes a demand forecasting unit 131, a demand forecasting result storage unit 132, a dispatch forecasting unit 133, a dispatch forecasting result storage unit 134, a dispatch system dependency calculation unit 135, and a dispatch system dependency storage unit 136. Furthermore, the dispatch control device 100 includes a dispatch success index calculation unit 141, a dispatch success index storage unit 142, and a dispatch unit 143.

[0030] (1) Overview of Functional Configuration The following explains the relationship between the functions of the dispatch control device 100 and the functional configuration shown in Figure 2.

[0031] • First acquisition section The dispatch control device 100 includes a first acquisition unit that acquires information about each candidate dispatch location for each customer 2. The information about each candidate dispatch location for each customer 2 includes information indicating the probability of successful loading of each customer 2. The probability of successful loading is the degree to which a taxi 3 can actually pick up a customer 2 when it moves to a candidate dispatch location. The probability of successful loading will also be referred to as the dispatch success index below. The dispatch success index is acquired by calculation by the dispatch success index calculation unit 141, which will be described later. That is, the dispatch success index calculation unit 141 corresponds to the first acquisition unit.

[0032] A candidate vehicle dispatch location is a space that can be set as a vehicle dispatch location. A candidate vehicle dispatch location may be defined by geographical location information (i.e., horizontal location information (e.g., latitude and longitude information)). A candidate vehicle dispatch location may also be each of the divided rectangles (hereinafter also referred to as cells) when the real space is divided into a grid in the horizontal direction. In addition to geographical location information, a candidate vehicle dispatch location may also be defined by vertical location information.

[0033] • Second acquisition section The dispatch control device 100 includes a second acquisition unit that acquires information indicating the tendency of taxi 3 (more specifically, the driver of taxi 3) to move according to dispatch instructions. This information indicating such tendencies is also called the dispatch system dependency. The higher the dispatch system dependency of taxi 3, the more likely it is to move according to the instructions of the dispatch system 1, and the lower the dispatch system dependency of taxi 3, the less likely it is to move according to the instructions of the dispatch system 1. The dispatch system dependency can also be considered as information associated with the driver of taxi 3. The dispatch system dependency is acquired by calculation by the dispatch system dependency calculation unit 135, which will be described later. That is, the dispatch system dependency calculation unit 135 corresponds to the second acquisition unit.

[0034] • Third acquisition section The dispatch control device 100 further includes a third acquisition unit that acquires information indicating the planned movement of taxi 3 from taxi 3 (more precisely, from the driver terminal 310 installed in taxi 3). The planned movement of taxi 3 is the dispatch schedule. The information indicating the dispatch schedule will also be referred to as dispatch information below. The dispatch information is information indicating where taxi 3 is scheduled to operate as a dispatch location (destination space), and is input by the driver of taxi 3. The dispatch information can also be seen as a supply forecast with a relatively high degree of accuracy. The dispatch information is acquired by the dispatch information acquisition unit 122, which will be described later. That is, the dispatch information acquisition unit 122 corresponds to the third acquisition unit.

[0035] The third acquisition unit, if it fails to acquire information indicating the planned movement of taxi 3 from taxi 3 (more precisely, from the driver terminal 310 installed in taxi 3), predicts the planned movement of taxi 3 and acquires the predicted movement schedule result. Predicting the planned movement schedule will be referred to as dispatch prediction below, and the predicted movement schedule result will be referred to as dispatch prediction result below. Dispatch prediction is a prediction of how the driver of taxi 3, who has not entered dispatch information, will act to dispatch taxis. The dispatch prediction result can also be seen as a supply prediction with a relatively low degree of accuracy. Dispatch prediction is performed by the dispatch prediction unit 133, which will be described later. That is, the dispatch prediction unit 133 corresponds to the third acquisition unit.

[0036] ·Generation part The dispatch control device 100 includes a generation unit that generates dispatch instructions based on information acquired by the first acquisition unit, the second acquisition unit, and / or the third acquisition unit. The dispatch instructions are generated by the dispatch unit 143, which will be described later. In other words, the dispatch unit 143 corresponds to the generation unit.

[0037] (2) Details of each component The details of each component shown in Figure 2 are described below.

[0038] • Open data storage unit 101 The open data storage unit 101 has the function of storing open data. Examples of open data include data used for demand forecasting or supply forecasting (dispatch forecasting in this specification), such as weather and train delays. The open data storage unit 101 can search for and output data in response to a search request. The open data storage unit 101 outputs the stored open data to the demand forecasting unit 131 and the dispatch forecasting unit 133.

[0039] • Dispatch request acquisition unit 102 The dispatch request acquisition unit 102 has the function of acquiring dispatch requests from the customer terminal 200. The dispatch request acquisition unit 102 outputs the acquired dispatch requests to the dispatch request storage unit 103. A dispatch request is information requesting taxi 3 to come and pick up the customer. An example of the dispatch request format is shown in Table 1 below.

[0040] [Table 1]

[0041] • Dispatch request memory unit 103 The dispatch request storage unit 103 has the function of storing past dispatch requests. The dispatch request storage unit 103 can search for and output data in response to a search request. The dispatch request storage unit 103 outputs the stored dispatch requests to the demand forecasting unit 131.

[0042] ·Traffic information storage unit 104 The traffic information storage unit 104 has the function of storing traffic information. The traffic information storage unit 104 can retrieve and output data in response to a search request. The traffic information storage unit 104 outputs the stored traffic information to the dispatch success index calculation unit 141. Traffic information refers to information regarding the occurrence of unusual traffic conditions (for example, traffic accidents or congestion). An example of the traffic information format is shown in Table 2 below.

[0043] [Table 2]

[0044] The target section is the section (e.g., a road) that is subject to traffic information. The target section identification information is the identification information of the road that constitutes the target section, or the identification information of the intersections at the start and end points of the road that constitutes the target section. The traffic information is used to predict the arrival time of taxi 3 at the dispatch location. The format of the traffic information may vary depending on the route search algorithm and data model.

[0045] • Vehicle log acquisition unit 111 The vehicle log acquisition unit 111 has the function of acquiring vehicle logs from the vehicle log generation device 300. The vehicle log acquisition unit 111 outputs the acquired vehicle logs to the vehicle log storage unit 112. The vehicle log is information indicating the operating status of taxi 3. An example of the vehicle log format is shown in Table 3 below.

[0046] [Table 3]

[0047] • Vehicle log storage unit 112 The vehicle log storage unit 112 has the function of storing vehicle logs. The vehicle log storage unit 112 can search for and output data in response to a search request. The vehicle log storage unit 112 outputs the stored vehicle logs to the dispatch history extraction unit 113, the dispatch prediction unit 133, the dispatch system dependency calculation unit 135, the dispatch success index calculation unit 141, and the dispatch unit 143.

[0048] • Dispatch history extraction unit 113 The dispatch history extraction unit 113 has the function of extracting dispatch history from the vehicle log. Dispatch history is the history of taxi 3 carrying customer 2. For example, the dispatch history extraction unit 113 extracts dispatch history by recognizing the movement of taxi 3 in the occupied state from the vehicle log, from the vehicle state from empty to occupied and back to empty. The dispatch history extraction unit 113 outputs the extracted dispatch history to the dispatch history storage unit 114. An example of the dispatch history format is shown in Table 4 below.

[0049] [Table 4]

[0050] • Dispatch history storage unit 114 The dispatch history storage unit 114 has the function of storing the dispatch history. The dispatch history storage unit 114 can search for and output data in response to a search request. The dispatch history storage unit 114 outputs the stored dispatch history to the demand forecasting unit 131 and the dispatch system dependency calculation unit 135.

[0051] • Dispatch mode selection information acquisition unit 121 The dispatch mode selection information acquisition unit 121 has the function of acquiring dispatch mode selection information from the driver terminal 310. The dispatch mode selection information acquisition unit 121 outputs the acquired dispatch mode selection information to the dispatch system dependency calculation unit 135. Dispatch mode selection information is information related to the driver's selection of the dispatch mode. The dispatch mode is the operating mode of the taxi 3. Depending on the dispatch mode, the information provided from the dispatch control device 100 to the driver terminal 310 differs.

[0052] The dispatch mode can be selected from, for example, a fully automatic dispatch mode (corresponding to the first mode), a semi-automatic dispatch mode (corresponding to the second mode), and a manual dispatch mode (corresponding to the third mode). In the fully automatic dispatch mode, dispatch instructions are provided from the dispatch control device 100, and the driver drives according to the dispatch instructions. In the semi-automatic dispatch mode, demand forecast results and dispatch instructions are provided from the dispatch control device 100, and the driver selects the dispatch location based on this provided information. The semi-automatic dispatch mode differs from the fully automatic dispatch mode in that the driver can choose whether or not to follow the dispatch instructions. In this respect, it can also be seen that in the fully automatic dispatch mode, dispatch instructions that must be followed are provided, while in the semi-automatic dispatch mode, dispatch instructions that are recommended to be followed are provided. The manual dispatch mode is a dispatch mode in which the driver independently performs dispatching. The dispatch mode can be selected by the driver on the dispatch mode selection screen displayed on the driver terminal 310. An example of the dispatch mode selection screen will be explained with reference to Figure 3.

[0053] Figure 3 shows an example of a dispatch mode selection screen according to this embodiment. The dispatch mode selection screen 10 shown in Figure 3 is displayed on the driver terminal 310. As shown in Figure 3, the dispatch mode selection screen 10 includes a fully automatic dispatch mode selection button 11, a semi-automatic dispatch mode selection button 12, and a manual dispatch mode selection button 13. When the fully automatic dispatch mode selection button 11 is pressed by the driver, the driver terminal 310 accepts the selection of the fully automatic dispatch mode. When the semi-automatic dispatch mode selection button 12 is pressed by the driver, the driver terminal 310 accepts the selection of the semi-automatic dispatch mode. When the manual dispatch mode selection button 13 is pressed by the driver, the driver terminal 310 accepts the selection of the manual dispatch mode. The driver terminal 310 accepts the dispatch mode selection operation by the driver, generates dispatch mode selection information based on the selection result, and transmits it to the dispatch control device 100.

[0054] An example of the format for dispatch mode selection information is shown in Table 5 below.

[0055] [Table 5]

[0056] • Dispatch information acquisition unit 122 The dispatch information acquisition unit 122 has the function of acquiring dispatch information from the driver terminal 310. The dispatch information acquisition unit 122 outputs the acquired dispatch information to the dispatch information storage unit 123 and the dispatch system dependency calculation unit 135. The driver terminal 310 displays a dispatch information input screen and accepts dispatch information input from the driver. An example of the dispatch information input screen for each dispatch mode will be explained with reference to Figures 4 to 6.

[0057] Figure 4 shows an example of a dispatch information input screen for the fully automatic dispatch mode according to this embodiment. The dispatch information input screen 20 shown in Figure 4 is displayed on the driver terminal 310 of taxi 3, which is set to fully automatic dispatch mode. The dispatch information input screen 20 includes map information 21 and dispatch details 25. Map information 21 maps information (icon) 22 indicating the current location of taxi 3, information (icon) 23 indicating the dispatch location instructed in the dispatch instruction from the dispatch control device 100, and information 24 indicating the travel route to the dispatch location. Dispatch details 25 includes information 25A indicating details of the dispatch location, information 25B indicating the predicted demand, information 25C indicating the dispatch success index, supplementary information 25D regarding the dispatch location, and a dispatch information input button 25E. In this case, the dispatch details 25 in fully automatic dispatch mode displays information regarding the dispatch location instructed by the dispatch control device 100. The dispatch information acquisition unit 122 acquires information indicating whether taxi 3 will move according to the dispatch instruction, based on the selection result of "YES" or "NO" on the dispatch information input button 25E. Specifically, if the driver selects "YES" on the dispatch information input button 25E, it is confirmed that taxi 3 will move according to the dispatch instruction. In that case, the driver terminal 310 transmits dispatch information to the dispatch control device 100, indicating that the location shown on icon 23 is the dispatch location. If the driver selects "NO" on the dispatch information input button 25E, it is confirmed that taxi 3 will not follow the dispatch instruction. In that case, the driver terminal 310 transmits information to the dispatch control device 100 indicating that the location shown on icon 23 is not the dispatch location.

[0058] Figure 5 shows an example of a dispatch information input screen for the semi-automatic dispatch mode according to this embodiment. The dispatch information input screen 20 shown in Figure 5 is displayed on the driver terminal 310 of a taxi 3 in which the semi-automatic dispatch mode is set. The dispatch information input screen 20 includes map information 21 and dispatch details 25. Map information 21 has information 26 indicating the dispatch success index and predicted demand for each candidate dispatch location mapped to it. Map information 21 also has information indicating the dispatch location specified in the dispatch instruction from the dispatch control device 100 mapped to it. Specifically, cell 26A corresponding to the dispatch location specified in the dispatch instruction from the dispatch control device 100 is highlighted in map information 21. The driver can refer to this information and select which cell to use as the dispatch location. Cell 26B selected by the driver is also highlighted. The dispatch details information 25 includes information 25A showing details of the dispatch location, information 25B showing the predicted demand, information 25C showing the dispatch success index, supplementary information 25D regarding the dispatch location, and a dispatch information input button 25E. In the semi-automatic dispatch mode, the dispatch details information 25 displays information regarding the dispatch location selected by the driver. The dispatch information acquisition unit 122 acquires information indicating the dispatch location entered on the dispatch information input screen 20 based on the selection result of "YES" or "NO" on the dispatch information input button 25E. Specifically, if the driver selects "YES" on the dispatch information input button 25E, it is confirmed that taxi 3 will move according to the dispatch instruction. In that case, the driver terminal 310 transmits dispatch information to the dispatch control device 100 with cell 26B selected by the driver as the dispatch location. If the driver selects "NO" on the dispatch information input button 25E, it is confirmed that taxi 3 will not follow the dispatch instruction. In that case, the driver terminal 310 accepts the driver's request to select a new vehicle dispatch location.

[0059] Figure 6 shows an example of a dispatch information input screen for manual dispatch mode according to this embodiment. The dispatch information input screen 20 shown in Figure 6 is displayed on the driver terminal 310 of taxi 3 when manual dispatch mode is set. The dispatch information input screen 20 includes map information 21 and dispatch details 25. The driver can specify a dispatch location by selecting any location on the map displayed in map information 21. When the driver selects a dispatch location, information (icon) 27 indicating the dispatch location selected by customer 2 is displayed superimposed on the map in map information 21. The dispatch details 25 includes information 25A showing details of the dispatch location, information 25B showing the predicted demand, information 25C showing the dispatch success index, supplementary information 25D regarding the dispatch location, and a dispatch information input button 25E. In manual dispatch mode, the dispatch details 25 displays information regarding the dispatch location selected by the driver. The dispatch information acquisition unit 122 acquires information indicating the dispatch location entered on the dispatch information input screen 20 based on the selection result of "YES" or "NO" on the dispatch information input button 25E. If the driver selects "YES" on the dispatch information input button 25E, the driver terminal 310 transmits dispatch information to the dispatch control device 100, with the location of the icon 27A selected by the driver as the dispatch location. If the driver selects "NO" on the dispatch information input button 25E, the driver terminal 310 accepts the driver's operation to select the dispatch location again.

[0060] Regardless of the dispatch mode, the dispatch information acquisition unit 122 can acquire dispatch information. In other words, the dispatch information acquisition unit 122 can also acquire dispatch information for drivers who do not follow the dispatch system 1. This prevents drivers from making unpredictable moves for the dispatch system 1, so the dispatch unit 143, which will be described later, can achieve more appropriate dispatching.

[0061] An example of the dispatch information format is shown in Table 6 below.

[0062] [Table 6]

[0063] • Dispatch information storage unit 123 The dispatch information storage unit 123 has the function of storing dispatch information. The dispatch information storage unit 123 can retrieve and output data in response to a search request. The dispatch information storage unit 123 outputs the stored dispatch information to the dispatch system dependency calculation unit 135, the dispatch success index calculation unit 141, and the dispatch unit 143.

[0064] • Demand forecasting unit 131 The demand forecasting unit 131 has the function of forecasting the demand for taxis 3. The demand forecasting unit 131 forecasts the demand for taxis 3 based on open data, dispatch requests, and dispatch history. For example, the demand forecasting unit 131 may train a forecasting model in advance based on past data and forecast future demand by inputting this information into the trained forecasting model. The demand forecasting unit 131 may forecast demand for each candidate dispatch location. The demand is typically forecast as the number of taxis 3. Alternatively, the demand may be forecast as the number of customers.

[0065] Figure 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of demand forecasting according to this embodiment. In the example shown in Figure 7, the demand forecasting unit 131 forecasts the demand for taxis 3 at each future time for each cell. Graph 30 is a graph showing the time-series change of the forecasted demand in a single cell. In Graph 30, the vertical axis is demand and the horizontal axis is time. The origin of Graph 30 is the current time.

[0066] The demand forecasting unit 131 outputs the demand forecasting results to the demand forecasting result storage unit 132. An example of the demand forecasting result format is shown in Table 7 below.

[0067] [Table 7]

[0068] • Demand forecast result storage unit 132 The demand forecast result storage unit 132 has the function of storing demand forecast results. The demand forecast result storage unit 132 can search for and output data in response to a search request. The demand forecast result storage unit 132 outputs the stored demand forecast results to the dispatch success index calculation unit 141.

[0069] • Dispatch prediction unit 133 The dispatch prediction unit 133 has the function of predicting dispatch information for each taxi 3. The dispatch prediction unit 133 predicts dispatch information based on open data and vehicle logs. Specifically, the dispatch prediction unit 133 models the driver's driving behavior based on past open data and vehicle logs, and predicts the driver's future driving behavior based on current vehicle logs and open data. In particular, the dispatch prediction unit 133 predicts dispatch information for taxis 3 for which the dispatch information acquisition unit 122 failed to acquire dispatch information. The dispatch unit 143, described later, can make dispatches based on predictions of the behavior of drivers who do not follow the dispatch system 1 and who do not even input dispatch information. This makes it possible to achieve more appropriate dispatches.

[0070] An example of the dispatch prediction result format is shown in Table 8 below.

[0071] [Table 8]

[0072] • Vehicle dispatch prediction result storage unit 134 The dispatch prediction result storage unit 134 has the function of storing dispatch prediction results. The dispatch prediction result storage unit 134 can search for and output data in response to a search request. The dispatch prediction result storage unit 134 outputs the stored dispatch prediction results to the dispatch success index calculation unit 141.

[0073] • Dispatch system dependency calculation unit 135 The dispatch system dependency calculation unit 135 has the function of calculating the dispatch system dependency of each driver. The dispatch system dependency calculation unit 135 calculates the dispatch system dependency based on dispatch history, vehicle log, dispatch mode selection information, dispatch information, and past dispatch information. The dispatch system dependency calculation unit 135 generates dispatch system dependency information and outputs it to the dispatch system dependency storage unit 136. The dispatch system dependency information includes the dispatch system dependency and the information used in its calculation. An example of the format of the dispatch system dependency information is shown in Table 9 below.

[0074] [Table 9]

[0075] Below, with reference to Figure 8, we will explain in detail an example of how to calculate the degree of dependence on the dispatch system.

[0076] Figure 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of a method for calculating the dispatch system dependency according to this embodiment. As shown in Figure 8, the dispatch system dependency calculation unit 135 includes a base point calculation unit 135A based on the dispatch mode, a driver information storage unit 135B, an additional point calculation unit 135C for continued use of the fully automatic dispatch mode, an additional point calculation unit 135D for operation according to the instructions of the dispatch system, a deduction point calculation unit 135E for changes in confirmed dispatch information, an additional point calculation unit 135F for dispatch information input, and a total point calculation unit 135G. An example of the structure of internal data input and output between these components is shown in Table 10 below.

[0077] [Table 10]

[0078] The dispatch system dependency is set according to the dispatch mode. Specifically, the base score calculation unit 135A based on the dispatch mode calculates the base score of the dispatch system dependency based on the dispatch mode selection information output from the dispatch mode selection information acquisition unit 121. The base score calculation unit 135A based on the vehicle mode calculates a higher base score for dispatch modes that follow the instructions of the dispatch system 1 to a higher degree. For example, the base score calculation unit 135A based on the dispatch mode calculates the highest base score when the dispatch mode is the fully automatic dispatch mode. The base score calculation unit 135A based on the dispatch mode calculates the second highest base score when the dispatch mode is the semi-automatic dispatch mode, and calculates the lowest base score when the dispatch mode is the manual dispatch mode. The base score calculation unit 135A based on the dispatch mode outputs the calculated base score to the total score calculation unit 135G. The data structure at the time of output is as shown in Table 10.

[0079] The driver information storage unit 135B stores driver information. The driver information stores at least information regarding the driver's selection of the dispatch mode. An example of the driver information format is shown in Table 11 below.

[0080] [Table 11]

[0081] The degree of dependence on the dispatch system is set according to the continuous usage time of the fully automatic dispatch mode. Specifically, the additional points calculation unit 135C for continuous use of the fully automatic dispatch mode calculates additional points (additional points) according to the continuous usage time of the fully automatic dispatch mode based on driver information. The additional points calculation unit 135C for continuous use of the fully automatic dispatch mode periodically reads driver information from the driver information storage unit 135B and calculates higher additional points the longer the continuous usage time of the fully automatic dispatch mode. The additional points calculation unit 135C for continuous use of the fully automatic dispatch mode outputs the calculated additional points to the total points calculation unit 135G. The data structure at the time of output is as shown in Table 10.

[0082] The degree of dependence on the dispatch system is set according to whether or not the driver moved according to the dispatch instructions. Specifically, the additional points calculation unit 135D for operation according to the dispatch system instructions calculates additional points (additional points) when the driver operates taxi 3 according to the instructions of the dispatch system 1. For example, the additional points calculation unit 135D for operation according to the dispatch system instructions calculates additional points when taxi 3 in full auto dispatch mode or semi auto dispatch mode moves according to the dispatch instructions and picks up customer 2. In addition, the additional points calculation unit 135D for operation according to the dispatch system instructions compares the dispatch information stored in the dispatch information storage unit 123 with the actual operating status of taxi 3, and calculates higher additional points the higher the degree of agreement. The actual operating status of taxi 3 is recognized by the dispatch history stored in the dispatch history storage unit 114. The additional points calculation unit 135D for operation according to the dispatch system's instructions calculates additional points if taxi 3 picks up customer 2 on the route to the dispatch location and does not deviate from the route, assuming that the operation was carried out according to the dispatch instructions. To this end, the additional points calculation unit 135D for operation according to the dispatch system's instructions determines whether or not the route was deviated, for example, based on the vehicle log stored in the vehicle log storage unit 112. The additional points calculation unit 135D for operation according to the dispatch system's instructions outputs the calculated additional points to the total points calculation unit 135G. The data structure at the time of output is as shown in Table 10.

[0083] The dispatch system dependency level is set according to whether or not the dispatch location was changed after it was confirmed that taxi 3 would follow the dispatch instructions. Specifically, the deduction point calculation unit 135E for changes in confirmed dispatch information calculates additional points (deduction points) when the driver changes confirmed dispatch information, based on the time-series changes in the dispatch information stored in the dispatch information storage unit 123. The deduction point calculation unit 135E for changes in confirmed dispatch information calculates deduction points when the driver of taxi 3 confirms dispatch information once on the dispatch information input screen and then confirms different dispatch information. When dispatch information is changed, the dispatch success index described later will be recalculated, and other dispatches may be affected, so points are deducted. The deduction point calculation unit 135E for changes in confirmed dispatch information outputs the calculated deduction points to the total point calculation unit 135G. The data structure at the time of output is as shown in Table 10.

[0084] The degree of dependence on the dispatch system is set depending on whether or not the dispatch location of taxi 3 has been presented to the dispatch control device 100. Specifically, the additional points calculation unit 135F based on dispatch information input calculates additional points (additional points) for drivers who have entered dispatch information on the dispatch information input screen. For example, the additional points calculation unit 135F based on dispatch information input calculates additional points when a driver of taxi 3, which is in semi-automatic dispatch mode or manual dispatch mode, enters dispatch information on the dispatch information input screen. This is because when dispatch information is entered, the driver is less likely to make unexpected movements for the dispatch system 1, improving the accuracy of dispatch instructions. In addition, the additional points calculation unit 135F based on dispatch information input calculates additional points when a driver of taxi 3, which is in semi-automatic dispatch mode, enters dispatch information on the dispatch information input screen that follows the recommended dispatch instructions from the dispatch control device 100. This is because following the recommended dispatch instructions allows for a closer approach to overall optimization. The additional points calculation unit 135F, which receives dispatch information input, outputs the calculated additional points to the total points calculation unit 135G. The data structure for output is as shown in Table 10.

[0085] The total score calculation unit 135G calculates the total score of the dispatch system dependency. The total score calculation unit 135G calculates the total score of the dispatch system dependency by summing the base score calculated by the base score calculation unit 135A based on the dispatch mode, the additional score calculated by the additional score calculation unit 135C for continued use of the fully automatic dispatch mode, the additional score calculated by the additional score calculation unit 135D for operation according to the instructions of the dispatch system, the deduction score calculated by the deduction score calculation unit 135E for changes in confirmed dispatch information, and the additional score calculated by the additional score calculation unit 135F for input of dispatch information.

[0086] Furthermore, the dispatch control device 100 (for example, the dispatch information acquisition unit 122) may display information on the driver terminal 310 indicating actions that trigger a change in the degree of dependence on the dispatch system. For example, the driver terminal 310 displays information indicating that a higher base score will be awarded if the dispatch mode of taxi 3 is changed to the fully automatic dispatch mode. Also, for example, if the dispatch mode of taxi 3 is in the fully automatic dispatch mode, the driver terminal 310 displays information indicating the remaining time until additional points corresponding to the continuous usage time are awarded. These measures make it possible to encourage drivers to improve their dependence on the dispatch system. An example of a screen displayed on the driver terminal 310 is shown in Figure 9.

[0087] Figure 9 shows an example of a navigation screen according to this embodiment. The navigation screen 40 shown in Figure 9 is displayed on the driver terminal 310 of taxi 3 while it is moving to the dispatch location. The navigation screen 40 includes map information 41 that maps information (icon) 42 indicating the current location of taxi 3, information (icon) 43 indicating the dispatch location, and information 44 indicating the travel route to the dispatch location. Furthermore, the navigation screen 40 includes information 46 indicating that the continuous use time of the fully automatic dispatch mode has reached 20 minutes, and that 1 point (a point added for calculating the degree of dependence on the dispatch system) will be added after 10 minutes. This information 46 motivates the driver to continue using the fully automatic dispatch mode. This makes it possible to encourage the driver to increase their dependence on the dispatch system.

[0088] • Dispatch system dependency storage unit 136 The dispatch system dependency storage unit 136 has the function of storing the dispatch system dependency. The dispatch system dependency storage unit 136 can retrieve and output data in response to a search request. The dispatch system dependency storage unit 136 outputs the stored dispatch system dependency to the dispatch unit 143.

[0089] • Dispatch success index calculation unit 141 The dispatch success index calculation unit 141 has the function of calculating a dispatch success index for each candidate dispatch location for each taxi 3. The dispatch success index calculation unit 141 calculates the dispatch success index based on traffic information, vehicle logs, demand forecast results, dispatch information, and dispatch forecast results. The calculation logic for the dispatch success index is shown in Figure 10.

[0090] Figure 10 shows an example of the calculation logic for the dispatch success index according to this embodiment. As shown in Figure 10, traffic information, dispatch location candidates, and the current vehicle log are input, and the estimated arrival time of the dispatch location candidate is calculated. In addition, the demand forecast for the dispatch location candidate (corresponding to the demand forecast result) and the supply forecast to the dispatch location candidate (corresponding to the dispatch information and dispatch forecast result) are input, and the dispatch success index is calculated based on this information and the estimated arrival time of the dispatch location candidate. Specifically, the dispatch success index calculation unit 141 calculates the dispatch success index based on the predicted demand for taxis 3 (corresponding to the demand forecast result) and the predicted supply of taxis 3 (corresponding to the dispatch information and dispatch forecast result) at the estimated arrival time of the dispatch location candidate. The dispatch success index calculation unit 141 calculates a high dispatch success index if there is excess demand, and a low dispatch success index if there is excess supply. The dispatch success index and supply and demand balance will be explained with reference to Figure 11.

[0091] Figure 11 is a diagram illustrating the relationship between the dispatch success index and the supply and demand balance according to this embodiment. Graph 50 shown in Figure 11 is a graph showing the time-series changes in the predicted demand and predicted supply at a certain dispatch location candidate. In graph 50, the vertical axis represents demand or supply, and the horizontal axis represents time. The origin of graph 50 is the current time. The area of ​​region 53 obtained by subtracting the predicted supply 52 from the predicted demand 51 after the scheduled arrival time at the dispatch location candidate (i.e., the value obtained by integrating the value obtained by subtracting the predicted supply from the predicted demand in the time direction) corresponds to the dispatch success index. The larger the area of ​​region 53, the higher the dispatch success index, and the smaller the area of ​​region 53, the lower the dispatch success index.

[0092] The dispatch success index calculation unit 141 calculates the dispatch success index whenever there is a change in the vehicle status (vehicle log and dispatch information, etc.) or the demand forecast or supply forecast (corresponding to dispatch information and dispatch forecast results). This ensures that the dispatch success index remains up-to-date.

[0093] The dispatch success index calculation unit 141 calculates a dispatch success index for each taxi 3 and for each candidate dispatch location, and generates dispatch success index information. That is, dispatch success index information is generated for each taxi 3 and for each candidate dispatch location. The dispatch success index calculation unit 141 then outputs the dispatch success index information to the dispatch success index storage unit 142. An example of the format of the dispatch success index information is shown in Table 12 below.

[0094] [Table 12]

[0095] • Dispatch success index memory unit 142 The dispatch success index storage unit 142 has the function of storing dispatch success index information. The dispatch success index storage unit 142 can retrieve and output data in response to a search request. The dispatch success index storage unit 142 outputs the stored dispatch success index information to the dispatch unit 143.

[0096] Furthermore, the dispatch success index storage unit 142 can output the stored dispatch success index information to the driver terminal 310 corresponding to the vehicle ID and driver ID of the dispatch success index information. For example, when the dispatch mode is semi-manual mode, the driver terminal 310 displays map information 21 superimposed with the dispatch success index for each cell on the dispatch information input screen 20, as shown in Figure 5, based on the acquired dispatch success index information.

[0097] • Dispatch Department 143 The dispatch unit 143 has the function of dispatching vehicles. That is, the dispatch unit 143 generates dispatch instructions for each taxi 3 under its control. The dispatch unit 143 dispatches vehicles based on the dispatch system dependency, dispatch requests, vehicle logs, dispatch information, and dispatch success index.

[0098] Dispatching taxis using the dispatch success index means dispatching taxis based on the predicted demand (corresponding to the demand forecast result) and predicted supply (corresponding to dispatch information and dispatch forecast result) of taxi 3. The predicted supply here includes dispatch information entered by drivers following the dispatch system 1, dispatch information entered by drivers not following the dispatch system 1, and predicted behavior of drivers who do not follow the dispatch system 1 and do not even enter dispatch information. In other words, the dispatch unit 143 dispatches taxis based on predicted behavior of drivers following the dispatch system 1, drivers who do not follow the dispatch system 1 but enter dispatch information, and drivers who do not follow the dispatch system 1 and do not even enter dispatch information. In this way, dispatching can be performed taking into account the behavior of drivers who do not follow the dispatch system 1, making it possible to improve the accuracy of dispatch instructions.

[0099] The dispatch unit 143 generates dispatch instructions that direct taxis 3, which are more dependent on the dispatch system, to dispatch location candidates with a higher dispatch success index. For example, the dispatch unit 143 assigns dispatch instructions to drivers with a higher dispatch success index, starting with those who are more dependent on the dispatch system. This makes it possible to assign dispatch instructions with a higher dispatch success index to drivers who are more dependent on the dispatch system 1. Note that assigning dispatch instructions changes the supply forecast, which in turn changes the dispatch success index. Therefore, it is desirable that the dispatch success index calculation unit 141 recalculates the dispatch success index each time a dispatch instruction is assigned, and that the dispatch unit 143 dispatches based on the recalculation result.

[0100] The dispatch unit 143 dispatches all taxis 3 under its control to a specific time in the future. This avoids situations where, depending on the timing, a dispatch instruction with a high dispatch success index is assigned to a taxi 3 that is less dependent on the dispatch system. In other words, by planning future dispatches in advance, the dispatch unit 143 can reliably assign dispatch instructions with a high dispatch success index to drivers who are highly dependent on the dispatch system.

[0101] The dispatch unit 143 decides whether or not to regenerate a dispatch instruction based on the change in the dispatch success index. For example, if there is a candidate dispatch location whose dispatch success index has fallen by more than a first threshold, and there are other candidate dispatch locations around that location whose dispatch success index is above a second threshold, the dispatch unit 143 will attempt to dispatch a taxi again and regenerate a dispatch instruction. This makes it possible to reassign a dispatch instruction with a higher dispatch success index to taxi 3, which is highly dependent on the dispatch system.

[0102] The dispatch unit 143 generates dispatch instructions based on the dispatch results and transmits them to the driver terminal 310. The dispatch unit 143 generates dispatch instructions for taxis 3 in either fully automatic dispatch mode or semi-automatic dispatch mode. An example of the dispatch instruction format is shown in Table 13 below. Note that the dispatch instruction format may be the same for taxis 3 in fully automatic dispatch mode and taxis 3 in semi-automatic dispatch mode.

[0103] [Table 13]

[0104] The dispatch unit 143 generates a dispatch response based on the dispatch result and sends it to the customer terminal 200. An example of the dispatch response format is shown in Table 14 below.

[0105] [Table 14]

[0106] <<4. Processing Flow>> The following describes an example of the processing flow performed in the vehicle dispatch control device 100, with reference to Figures 12 and 13.

[0107] Figure 12 is a flowchart showing an example of the dispatch process flow executed in the dispatch control device 100 according to this embodiment. As shown in Figure 12, first, the processes related to steps S102 to S112 are executed in parallel.

[0108] In step S102, the open data storage unit 101 acquires open data and updates the stored information. The open data storage unit 101 outputs the open data to the subsequent components (i.e., the demand forecasting unit 131 and the vehicle dispatch forecasting unit 133).

[0109] In step S104, the dispatch request acquisition unit 102 and the dispatch request storage unit 103 acquire a dispatch request and update the stored information. The dispatch request acquisition unit 102 and the dispatch request storage unit 103 output the dispatch request to the subsequent components (i.e., the demand forecasting unit 131 and the dispatch unit 143).

[0110] In step S106, the traffic information storage unit 104 acquires traffic information and updates the stored information. The traffic information storage unit 104 outputs the traffic information to the next component (i.e., the dispatch success index calculation unit 141).

[0111] In step S108, the vehicle log acquisition unit 111 and the vehicle log storage unit 112 acquire vehicle logs and update the stored information. The vehicle log acquisition unit 111 and the vehicle log storage unit 112 output the vehicle logs to the subsequent components (i.e., the dispatch history extraction unit 113, the dispatch prediction unit 133, the dispatch system dependency calculation unit 135, the dispatch success index calculation unit 141, and the dispatch unit 143).

[0112] In step S110, the dispatch mode selection information acquisition unit 121 acquires the dispatch mode selection information. The dispatch mode selection information acquisition unit 121 outputs the dispatch mode selection information to a subsequent component (i.e., the dispatch system dependency calculation unit 135).

[0113] In step S112, the dispatch information acquisition unit 122 and the dispatch information storage unit 123 acquire dispatch information and update the stored information. The dispatch information acquisition unit 122 and the dispatch information storage unit 123 output the updated dispatch information to the subsequent components (i.e., the dispatch system dependency calculation unit 135, the dispatch success index calculation unit 141, and the dispatch unit 143).

[0114] Next, in steps S114 to S124, the component that received information input from the preceding component updates the information.

[0115] In step S114, the dispatch history extraction unit 113 extracts the dispatch history again when a vehicle log is input, and the dispatch history storage unit 114 updates the dispatch history. The dispatch history storage unit 114 outputs the updated dispatch history to the subsequent components (i.e., the demand forecasting unit 131 and the dispatch system dependency calculation unit 135).

[0116] In step S116, the demand forecasting unit 131 performs demand forecasting again when at least one of open data or new dispatch history is input, and the demand forecasting result storage unit 132 updates the demand forecasting result. The demand forecasting result storage unit 132 outputs the updated demand forecasting result to the next component (i.e., the dispatch success index calculation unit 141).

[0117] In step S118, the dispatch prediction unit 133 performs dispatch prediction again if at least one of open data or vehicle logs is input, and the dispatch prediction result storage unit 134 updates the dispatch prediction result. The dispatch prediction result storage unit 134 outputs the updated dispatch prediction result to the next component (i.e., the dispatch success index calculation unit 141).

[0118] In step S120, the dispatch success index calculation unit 141 recalculates the dispatch success index when at least one of the demand forecast result, dispatch forecast result, dispatch information, traffic information, or dispatch history is input, and the dispatch success index storage unit 142 updates the dispatch success index. The dispatch success index storage unit 142 outputs the updated dispatch success index to the subsequent components (i.e., the dispatch unit 143 and the driver terminal 310).

[0119] In step S122, the dispatch system dependency calculation unit 135 recalculates the dispatch system dependency when at least one of the dispatch history, vehicle log, dispatch information, or dispatch mode selection information is input, and the dispatch system dependency storage unit 136 updates the dispatch system dependency. The dispatch system dependency storage unit 136 outputs the updated dispatch system dependency to the next component (i.e., the dispatch unit 143).

[0120] In step S124, the dispatch unit 143 generates a dispatch instruction again and overwrites (i.e., updates) the previously generated dispatch instruction if at least one of the following is entered: dispatch system dependency, dispatch request, vehicle log, or dispatch information.

[0121] The above describes one example of the vehicle dispatch process. Next, referring to Figure 13, we will explain the details of the processes related to steps S114 to S124 shown in Figure 12.

[0122] Figure 13 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of information update processing performed in the dispatch control device 100 according to this embodiment. As shown in Figure 13, when information is input from a preceding component, the target component determines whether or not there is an update to the input information (step S202). If it is determined that there is no update (step S202 / NO), the process ends. On the other hand, if it is determined that there is an update (step S202 / YES), the target component re-executes the process (step S204). For example, in step S114, the target component is the dispatch history extraction unit 113, and the dispatch history extraction unit 113 extracts the dispatch history again. The target component then outputs the processing result to the subsequent component (step S206), and the process ends.

[0123] <<5. Hardware Configuration Example>> Finally, with reference to Figure 14, the hardware configuration of the information processing device according to this embodiment will be described. Figure 14 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the information processing device according to this embodiment. The information processing device 900 shown in Figure 14 can, for example, realize the dispatch control device 100, customer terminal 200, vehicle log generation device 300, or driver terminal 310 shown in Figure 2. Information processing by the dispatch control device 100, customer terminal 200, vehicle log generation device 300, or driver terminal 310 according to this embodiment is realized through the cooperation of software and the hardware described below.

[0124] As shown in Figure 14, the information processing device 900 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 901, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 902, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 903, and a host bus 904a. The information processing device 900 also includes a bridge 904, an external bus 904b, an interface 905, an input device 906, an output device 907, a storage device 908, a drive 909, a connection port 911, and a communication device 913. The information processing device 900 may have processing circuits such as electrical circuits, a DSP, or an ASIC in place of, or together with, the CPU 901.

[0125] The CPU 901 functions as an arithmetic processing unit and control unit, and controls the overall operation within the information processing unit 900 according to various programs. The CPU 901 may also be a microprocessor. The ROM 902 stores programs and calculation parameters used by the CPU 901. The RAM 903 temporarily stores programs used in the execution of the CPU 901 and parameters that change as appropriate during its execution. The CPU 901 can form, for example, the dispatch request acquisition unit 102, vehicle log acquisition unit 111, dispatch history extraction unit 113, dispatch mode selection information acquisition unit 121, dispatch information acquisition unit 122, demand forecasting unit 131, dispatch forecasting unit 133, dispatch success index calculation unit 141, and dispatch unit 143 shown in Figure 2.

[0126] The CPU 901, ROM 902, and RAM 903 are interconnected by a host bus 904a, which includes the CPU bus. The host bus 904a is connected to an external bus 904b, such as a PCI (Peripheral Component Interconnect / Interface) bus, via a bridge 904. It is not necessary to configure the host bus 904a, bridge 904, and external bus 904b separately; these functions may be implemented on a single bus.

[0127] The input device 906 is implemented by a device that receives information from the user, such as a mouse, keyboard, touch panel, button, microphone, switch, and lever. The input device 906 may also be a remote control device using infrared or other radio waves, or an external device such as a mobile phone or PDA that is compatible with the operation of the information processing device 900. Furthermore, the input device 906 may include, for example, an input control circuit that generates an input signal based on information input by the user using the above-mentioned input means and outputs it to the CPU 901. The user of the information processing device 900 can input various data or instruct processing operations to the information processing device 900 by operating this input device 906. The input device 906 is included, for example, in the customer terminal 200 shown in Figure 2 and receives input from customer 2. The input device 906 is included, for example, in the driver terminal 310 shown in Figure 2 and receives input from the driver of taxi 3.

[0128] The output device 907 is formed of a device capable of notifying the user of acquired information visually or audibly. Such devices include display devices such as CRT displays, liquid crystal displays, plasma displays, EL displays, laser projectors, LED projectors, and lamps, as well as audio output devices such as speakers and headphones, and printers. The output device 907 outputs, for example, the results obtained from various processes performed by the information processing device 900. Specifically, the display device visually displays the results obtained from various processes performed by the information processing device 900 in various formats such as text, images, tables, and graphs. On the other hand, the audio output device converts the audio signal, consisting of played-back audio data or sound data, into an analog signal and outputs it audibly. The output device 907 is, for example, included in the customer terminal 200 shown in Figure 2 and outputs information to customer 2. The output device 907 is, for example, included in the driver terminal 310 shown in Figure 2 and outputs information to the driver of taxi 3.

[0129] The storage device 908 is a data storage device formed as an example of a storage unit of the information processing device 900. The storage device 908 can be implemented by, for example, a magnetic storage device such as an HDD, a semiconductor storage device, an optical storage device, or a magneto-optical storage device. The storage device 908 may also include a storage medium, a recording device for recording data on the storage medium, a reading device for reading data from the storage medium, and a deletion device for deleting data recorded on the storage medium. This storage device 908 stores programs executed by the CPU 901, various data, and various data acquired from external sources. The storage device 908 can, for example, form the open data storage unit 101, dispatch request storage unit 103, traffic information storage unit 104, vehicle log storage unit 112, dispatch history storage unit 114, demand forecast result storage unit 132, dispatch forecast result storage unit 134, and dispatch success index storage unit 142 shown in Figure 2.

[0130] Drive 909 is a reader / writer for storage media, and is either built into or external to the information processing unit 900. Drive 909 reads information recorded on removable storage media such as magnetic disks, optical disks, magneto-optical disks, or semiconductor memory, and outputs it to RAM 903. Drive 909 can also write information to removable storage media.

[0131] Connection port 911 is an interface for connecting to external devices, and is a connection port for external devices that can transmit data via, for example, USB (Universal Serial Bus).

[0132] The communication device 913 is, for example, a communication interface formed by a communication device for connecting to the network 920. The communication device 913 is, for example, a communication card for wired or wireless LAN (Local Area Network), LTE (Long Term Evolution), Bluetooth (registered trademark), or WUSB (Wireless USB). Alternatively, the communication device 913 may be a router for optical communication, a router for ADSL (Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line), or a modem for various types of communication. This communication device 913 can, for example, send and receive signals to and from the Internet or other communication devices in accordance with a predetermined protocol such as TCP / IP. In this embodiment, the communication device 913 is included in each of the dispatch control device 100, the customer terminal 200, the vehicle log generation device 300, and the driver terminal 310, and performs information transmission and reception between each device.

[0133] Network 920 is a wired or wireless transmission path for information transmitted from devices connected to Network 920. For example, Network 920 may include public networks such as the Internet, telephone networks, and satellite communication networks, as well as various LANs (Local Area Networks) and WANs (Wide Area Networks), including Ethernet®. Network 920 may also include dedicated network lines such as IP-VPN (Internet Protocol-Virtual Private Network).

[0134] The above describes an example of a hardware configuration capable of realizing the functions of the information processing device 900 according to this embodiment. Each of the above components may be realized using general-purpose materials, or it may be realized using hardware specialized for the functions of each component. Therefore, it is possible to change the hardware configuration used as appropriate depending on the level of technology at the time of implementing this embodiment.

[0135] Furthermore, it is possible to create a computer program to realize each of the functions of the information processing device 900 according to this embodiment as described above, and implement it on a PC or the like. A computer-readable recording medium containing such a computer program can also be provided. Examples of recording media include magnetic disks, optical disks, magneto-optical disks, and flash memory. Alternatively, the computer program may be distributed without using a recording medium, for example, via a network.

[0136] <<6. Summary>> An embodiment of the present disclosure has been described in detail above with reference to Figures 1 to 14. As described above, the dispatch control device 100 according to this embodiment acquires information on the transport object for each space and acquires information indicating whether or not a mobile body moves in accordance with a movement instruction. Based on this acquired information, the dispatch control device 100 generates a movement instruction for the mobile body that loads and transports the transport object. By referring to the information indicating whether or not a mobile body moves in accordance with a movement instruction, the dispatch control device 100 can generate a movement instruction that takes into account the impact of mobile bodies that do not follow the movement instruction on mobile bodies that do follow the instruction. This makes it possible to reduce the cannibalization of demand between mobile bodies that follow the instruction and mobile bodies that do not follow the instruction, and as a result, it becomes possible to transport the transport object using mobile bodies more efficiently.

[0137] This technology is expected to be applied during the transition to the era of autonomous driving. During this transition, it is anticipated that there will be taxis 3 that follow the dispatch system 1 (including autonomously driven taxis 3) and taxis 3 that do not. In such cases, applying this technology will make it possible to increase the proportion of taxis 3 that follow the dispatch system 1, thereby making the overall dispatch plan more efficient.

[0138] While preferred embodiments of the present disclosure have been described in detail above with reference to the attached drawings, the technical scope of the present disclosure is not limited to such examples. It is clear to any person with ordinary skill in the art of the present disclosure that various modifications or alterations may be conceived within the scope of the technical idea set forth in the claims, and these will naturally also fall within the technical scope of the present disclosure.

[0139] The series of processes performed by each device described herein may be implemented using software, hardware, or a combination of software and hardware. The programs constituting the software are pre-stored on a recording medium (non-transitory media) provided inside or outside each device. Each program is then loaded into RAM when executed by a computer and executed by a processor such as a CPU. The recording medium may be, for example, a magnetic disk, an optical disk, a magneto-optical disk, or flash memory. The computer programs may also be distributed without using a recording medium, for example, via a network.

[0140] Furthermore, the processes described using flowcharts in this specification do not necessarily have to be executed in the order shown. Some processing steps may be executed in parallel. Additional processing steps may be adopted, and some processing steps may be omitted.

[0141] Furthermore, the effects described herein are merely descriptive or illustrative and not limiting. In other words, the technology relating to this disclosure may produce other effects that are obvious to those skilled in the art from the description herein, in addition to or in lieu of the effects described herein.

[0142] Furthermore, the following configurations also fall within the technical scope of this disclosure. (1) An information processing device that generates movement instructions for a mobile body that carries and transports objects, A first acquisition unit that acquires information regarding the transported objects for each space, A second acquisition unit acquires information indicating whether the moving body tends to move in accordance with the movement instruction, A generation unit that generates the movement instruction for the moving body based on the information relating to the transported object and the information indicating the trend, An information processing device equipped with the following features. (2) The information processing device according to (1), wherein the information relating to the transported object includes information indicating the probability of successful loading of the transported object for each space. (3) The information processing apparatus according to (2), wherein the generating unit generates movement instructions that instruct the moving body, which is more likely to move in accordance with the movement instructions, to move to a space where the probability of successfully loading the transported object is higher. (4) The information processing device according to (2) or (3) above, wherein information indicating the probability of successful loading of the transported object is calculated based on the predicted demand for the transported object and the predicted supply of the transported object for each space. (5) The information processing apparatus according to any one of (1) to (4) above, wherein the generation unit determines whether or not to regenerate the movement instruction based on the change in the loading success probability. (6) The information processing device further comprises a third acquisition unit that acquires information from the moving object indicating the planned movement of the moving object, The information processing apparatus according to any one of (1) to (5), wherein the generation unit generates the movement instruction for the moving body based on information indicating the planned movement of the moving body. (7) If the third acquisition unit fails to acquire information from the moving body indicating the planned movement of the moving body, it predicts the planned movement of the moving body. The information processing apparatus according to (6), wherein the generation unit generates the movement instruction for the moving body based on the predicted movement schedule of the moving body. (8) When the operating mode of the moving body is the first mode, The terminal device associated with the mobile body displays a screen containing map information on which information indicating the destination space specified in the movement instruction is mapped, The third acquisition unit is an information processing device according to (6) or (7) above, which acquires information indicating whether or not to move in accordance with the movement instruction. (9) If the operating mode of the moving body is the second mode, The terminal device associated with the mobile body displays a screen that includes map information on which information indicating the probability of successful loading of the transported object for each space and information indicating the space to which movement is instructed in the movement instruction is mapped. The third acquisition unit acquires information indicating the destination space entered on the screen, as described in any one of (6) to (8). (10) If the operating mode of the moving body is the third mode, The terminal device associated with the aforementioned mobile body displays a screen containing map information, The third acquisition unit acquires information indicating the destination space entered on the screen, as described in any one of (6) to (9) above. (11) The information processing device described in any one of the above items (8) to (10) is set according to the operating mode, and the information showing the aforementioned trend is set according to the above operating mode. (12) The information processing apparatus described in item (8) or any one of items (9) to (11) that references item (8) is set according to the continuous usage time of the first mode. (13) The information processing device according to any one of (1) to (12) above, wherein the information indicating the trend is set according to whether or not the device moved in accordance with the movement instruction. (14) The information processing device according to any one of (1) to (13) above, wherein the information indicating the trend is set according to whether or not the destination space has been changed after it has been decided that the moving body will follow the movement instruction. (15) The information processing device according to any one of (1) to (14) above, wherein the information indicating the trend is set according to whether or not the space to which the moving object is moving has been presented to the information processing device. (16) The information processing apparatus according to any one of (1) to (15), wherein the second acquisition unit causes a terminal device associated with the mobile body to display information indicating an action that triggers a change in the information indicating the trend. (17) An information processing method for generating movement instructions for a mobile body that carries and transports objects, To obtain information regarding the transported objects for each space, To acquire information indicating whether the moving object tends to move in accordance with the movement instruction, Based on the information relating to the transported object and the information indicating the trend, the movement instruction for the moving body is generated. An information processing method performed by a processor, including [the specified element]. (18) A computer that controls an information processing device that generates movement instructions for a mobile body carrying and transporting objects, A first acquisition unit that acquires information regarding the transported objects for each space, A second acquisition unit acquires information indicating whether the moving body tends to move in accordance with the movement instruction, A generation unit that generates the movement instruction for the moving body based on the information relating to the transported object and the information indicating the trend, A program designed to function as such. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0143] 1. Dispatch System 2. Items to be transported, customers 3. Transportation vehicles, taxis 100 Dispatch control device 101 Open Data Storage Unit 102 Dispatch Request Acquisition Department 103 Dispatch Request Memory Unit 104 Traffic information storage section 111 Vehicle log acquisition unit 112 Vehicle log storage unit 113 Dispatch History Extraction Unit 114 Dispatch history storage unit 121 Dispatch mode selection information acquisition unit 122 Dispatch Information Acquisition Department 123 Dispatch Information Storage Unit 131 Demand Forecasting Department 132 Demand forecast result storage unit 133 Dispatch Forecasting Department 134 Vehicle dispatch prediction result storage unit 135 Dispatch System Dependency Calculation Unit 135A Base point calculation unit based on dispatch mode 135B Driver Information Storage Unit 135C Additional points calculation unit for continued use of fully automatic dispatch mode 135D Additional points calculation unit based on operation according to the dispatch system's instructions 135E Calculation unit for deduction points due to changes in confirmed dispatch information 135F Additional points calculation unit based on vehicle dispatch information input 135G Total score calculation unit 136 Dispatch system dependency memory unit 141 Dispatch Success Index Calculation Department 142 Successful dispatch index memory unit 143 Dispatch Department 200 customer terminals 300 Vehicle Log Generation Device 310 Driver terminal

Claims

1. An information processing method performed by an information processing device for predicting taxi demand, Obtaining a dispatch request from the customer's terminal, including the desired taxi pickup location, This involves inputting open data, including weather data, and vehicle logs containing taxi location information obtained from multiple taxis into a demand forecasting model that outputs taxi demand for each candidate dispatch location, in order to predict taxi demand. Based on demand forecasts, calculate the dispatch success index for each candidate dispatch location, including, Information processing methods.

2. A supply prediction model obtained in advance based on the location information of taxis is input to predict the supply of taxis for each candidate dispatch location, The information processing method according to claim 1.

3. Based on the demand forecast for taxis at the candidate dispatch location and the supply forecast for taxis at the candidate dispatch location, the taxi dispatch success index for each candidate dispatch location is calculated. The information processing method according to claim 2.

4. Outputting a dispatch request and a dispatch success index to the dispatch unit, The information processing method according to claim 3.

5. In the dispatch unit, a dispatch instruction is generated. The information processing method according to claim 4.

6. The information processing method according to claim 1, wherein the demand forecast is predicted as at least one of the number of taxis and the number of customers.

7. The demand forecast is a forecast of taxi demand for each cell at each future time, The information processing method according to claim 1.

8. The cell includes information that identifies the location where demand is expected to occur. The information processing method according to claim 7.

9. The dispatch success index is calculated based on traffic information and dispatch information, The information processing method according to claim 3.

10. The map information displays information indicating demand forecasts for each candidate vehicle dispatch location. The information processing method according to claim 1.

11. The map information displays information indicating the dispatch success index for each candidate dispatch location. The information processing method according to claim 3.

12. Display a graph showing the time-series change in demand forecast for each candidate dispatch location. The information processing method according to claim 1.

13. The information processing device consists of a combination of multiple hardware components. The information processing method according to claim 1.

14. The dispatch instruction includes information indicating the destination space for the taxi, The information processing method according to claim 5.

15. The open data further includes data relating to train delays. The information processing method according to claim 1.

16. An acquisition unit that acquires a dispatch request including the desired location for dispatching a taxi from a customer terminal, A demand forecasting unit that inputs open data and taxi location information into a demand forecasting model generated to output taxi demand for each candidate dispatch location based on open data including weather data and vehicle logs including taxi location information obtained from multiple taxis, predicts taxi demand. A calculation unit that calculates a dispatch success index for each candidate dispatch location based on demand forecasts, Equipped with, system.

17. A supply prediction unit that inputs the location information of taxis into a supply prediction model obtained in advance based on the location information of taxis and predicts the supply of taxis for each candidate dispatch location, Furthermore, The system according to claim 16.

18. The calculation unit calculates a taxi dispatch success index for each dispatch location candidate based on the taxi demand forecast for the dispatch location candidate and the taxi supply forecast for the dispatch location candidate. The system according to claim 17.

19. An output unit that outputs a dispatch request and a dispatch success index to the dispatch unit. Furthermore, The system according to claim 18.

20. A dispatch unit that generates dispatch instructions, Furthermore, The system according to claim 19.

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