Management method and transport management device

Abstract

To provide a suitable management method and transportation management device. [Solution] A management method performed by a transportation management device, comprising the steps of: obtaining a first time when a first vehicle, which travels by manned operation from a first departure point to a transfer point, arrives at the transfer point; obtaining a second time when a second vehicle, which travels by automated operation from a second departure point to the transfer point, arrives at the transfer point; and designating a driver to operate the first vehicle to the transfer point and a driver to operate the second vehicle from the transfer point, according to the first and second times.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a management method and a transport management device.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, an automatic driving device capable of executing unmanned automatic driving control for automatically driving a vehicle in a state where a driver is not in the vehicle along a driving plan has been proposed.

[0003] In such an automatic driving device, a technique for executing unmanned automatic driving control along a driving plan when there is no driver is disclosed (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] Currently, since many unmanned automatic driving technologies and infrastructure technologies supporting them have been proposed in toll sections such as highways, it is possible to realize unmanned automatic driving on toll roads such as highways. On the other hand, there are still many problems to be realized in terms of safety in the unmanned automatic driving of general roads compared to toll roads.

[0006] Therefore, an object of the present disclosure is to provide a suitable transportation method.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] This disclosure relates to a management method performed by a transportation management device, which includes the steps of: obtaining a first time when a first vehicle traveling by a human driver from a first departure point to a transfer point arrives at the transfer point; obtaining a second time when a second vehicle traveling by automated driving from a second departure point to the transfer point arrives at the transfer point; and designating a driver to operate the first vehicle to the transfer point and a driver to operate the second vehicle from the transfer point, according to the first and second times. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] This disclosure provides suitable management methods and transportation management devices. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] This is a diagram illustrating a transport configuration according to an embodiment of this disclosure. [Figure 2] This is a system configuration diagram of a transportation management system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] This diagram shows the transportation status from point A to point D, managed by a transportation management system. [Figure 4] This diagram shows the transportation status from point D to point A, as managed by the transportation management system. [Figure 5] This is a flowchart showing the transportation plan creation process by the Transportation Planning Department. [Figure 6] This is a flowchart of the transportation plan creation process 1 in the transportation plan creation process. [Figure 7] This is a flowchart of the transportation plan creation process 2 in the transportation plan creation process. [Figure 8] This is a flowchart showing the arrival prediction process. [Figure 9] This is a flowchart of the transportation plan creation process 3 in the transportation plan creation process. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] Embodiments of this disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. However, unnecessarily detailed explanations, such as detailed explanations of already well-known matters or redundant explanations of substantially identical configurations, may be omitted.

[0011] The drawings described and referenced below are provided to enable those skilled in the art to understand this disclosure and are not intended to limit the scope of the claims of this disclosure.

[0012] (Transportation system according to an embodiment of this disclosure) First, the transportation configuration according to the embodiment of this disclosure will be described with reference to Figure 1.

[0013] The transportation method 1 according to the embodiment of this disclosure is a system for transporting goods (or people) from a first departure / arrival point P1 to a second departure / arrival point P4. In the case of goods, the first departure / arrival point P1 and the first departure / arrival point P4 are, for example, a goods transport base (loading place, unloading place), and in the case of people, they are, for example, a boarding / alighting place. In the embodiment of this disclosure, the first departure / arrival point P1 is referred to as point A, and the second departure / arrival point P4 is referred to as point D.

[0014] Between the first departure / arrival point P1 and the second departure / arrival point P42, there are the first boarding / alighting point P2 and the second boarding / alighting point P3. The first boarding / alighting point P2 and the second boarding / alighting point P3 are, for example, parking lots for large vehicles at smart interchanges (hereinafter referred to as smart ICs) installed on expressways. In this embodiment of the disclosure, the first boarding / alighting point P2 is referred to as point B, and the second boarding / alighting point P3 is referred to as point C.

[0015] Vehicle X (X01-03) is a transport vehicle traveling from point A to point D, and vehicle Y (Y01-03) is a transport vehicle traveling from point D to point A. Vehicle X (X01-03) that arrives at point D will then become vehicle Y (Y01-03) traveling from point D to point A. Similarly, vehicle Y (Y01-03) that arrives at point A will then become vehicle X (X01-03) traveling from point A to point D.

[0016] The section from point A to point B is the first manned driving section where the vehicle X (X03) and the vehicle Y (Y01) are driven by the first driver DA (DA01). The first manned driving section is, for example, the general road driving section from point A to the smart IC of the highway closest to point A. The first driver DA (DA01) drives the vehicle X (X03) from point A to point B. Then, at point B, the driver transfers to the vehicle Y (Y01) and drives the vehicle Y (Y01) from point B back to point A. Therefore, the driving section of the first driver DA is only the first manned driving section.

[0017] The section from point C to point D is the second manned driving section where the vehicle X (X01) and the vehicle Y (Y03) are driven by the second driver DD (DD11). The second manned driving section is, for example, the general road driving section from point D to the smart IC of the highway closest to point D. The second driver DD (DD11) drives the vehicle Y (Y03) from point D to point C. Then, at point C, the driver transfers to the vehicle X (X01) and drives the vehicle X (X01) from point C back to point A. Therefore, the driving section of the second driver DD is only the second manned driving section.

[0018] The section from point B to point C is an unmanned automatic driving section where the vehicles X (X01 - 03) and the vehicles Y (Y01 - 03) drive automatically without a driver. For the vehicle X (X01 - 03) traveling from point B to point C, the unmanned automatic driving section is, for example, the highway driving section from the large vehicle parking lot of the smart IC at point B, along the uphill lane of the highway, to the large vehicle parking lot of the smart IC at point C. Also, for the vehicle Y (Y01 - 03) traveling from point C to point B, the unmanned automatic driving section is, for example, the highway driving section from the large vehicle parking lot of the smart IC at point C, along the downhill lane of the highway, to the large vehicle parking lot of the smart IC at point B.

[0019] Therefore, when transporting goods from point A to point D by vehicle X, first, driver DA drives vehicle X from point A to point B, and driver DA disembarks from vehicle X at point B. From point B, vehicle X travels autonomously without a driver to point C. From point C, driver DD drives vehicle X to transport goods to point D. Also, when transporting goods from point D to point A by vehicle Y, first, driver DD drives vehicle Y from point D to point C, and driver DD disembarks from vehicle Y at point C. From point C, vehicle Y travels autonomously without a driver to point B. From point B, driver DA drives vehicle Y to transport goods to point A.

[0020] As described above, the transportation mode 1 according to the embodiment of this disclosure transports goods (or people) from point A to point D, and from point D to point A. The transportation management system according to the embodiment of this disclosure is operated in such transportation mode 1.

[0021] (Overview of the transportation management system) Next, the transportation management system 10 according to the embodiment of this disclosure will be described with reference to Figure 2.

[0022] The transportation management system 10 according to the embodiment of this disclosure comprises a transportation management device 100, an in-vehicle system 200, and a driver terminal 300.

[0023] (transport management device) The transportation management device 100 is a server, etc., installed at a headquarters that comprehensively manages the transportation of goods from point A to point D, and from point D to point A. The transportation management device 100 also communicates with multiple external servers (not shown) via the network 400 to acquire various information such as road traffic information and weather information. The transportation management device 100 is communicated with the in-vehicle system 200 and the driver terminal 300 via the network 400. It is also communicated with the point A management device (not shown) installed at point A and the point D management device (not shown) installed at point D. Therefore, the information from the transportation management device 100 can be viewed at point A and point D as well. The transportation management device 100 may also be installed at point A and point D.

[0024] The transport management device 100 comprises a storage unit 101, a control unit 102, a communication control I / F (interface) unit 103, and an input / output I / F (interface) unit 104. An operation unit 105 and a display unit 106 are connected to the input / output I / F unit 104.

[0025] The memory unit 101 stores map information DB (database) 101a, traffic information DB 101b, and transportation plan DB 101c.

[0026] Map information DB101a stores map information. In addition to road map information, the map information includes various road information such as speed limit information, road type information, road width information, number of lanes information, tunnel information, and elevated structure (pedestrian bridges, overpasses, etc.) information. Speed ​​limit information indicates the speed limit for each section of each road. Road type information indicates the type of road, such as expressways, prefectural roads, municipal roads, and side roads, the presence or absence of right-turn-only lanes or left-turn-only lanes, the presence or absence of intersections and turning points (corners), the curvature of curves, and the road's inclination angle. Road width information indicates the width of each road. Number of lanes information indicates the number of lanes on a road. Tunnel information indicates the distance of tunnels and height restrictions inside tunnels. Elevated structure information indicates height restrictions for pedestrian bridges and overpasses.

[0027] The traffic information DB101b stores current road traffic information, future road traffic forecasts, and congestion forecasts. The road traffic information includes traffic information for both the northbound and southbound lanes of each general road between point A and point B, traffic information for both the northbound and southbound lanes of each general road between point C and point D, traffic information for the northbound lane of the expressway between point B and point C, and traffic information for the southbound lane of the expressway between point C and point B.

[0028] Future road traffic forecast information is information about future road conditions that are expected in the event of unforeseen traffic events (such as congestion exceeding the predicted range of congestion, accidents, broken-down vehicles, disasters, etc.). Road traffic information and future road traffic forecast information are acquired periodically (for example, every 5 minutes) from the Japan Road Traffic Information Center's server and updated as needed. Therefore, the traffic information DB101b stores current road traffic information and future road traffic forecast information between point A and point D.

[0029] Traffic congestion forecast information includes forecast information for each time period on the northbound lanes of the expressway between point B and point C (sections B-1a, B-2a, B-3a, B-4a, and C, described later), and forecast information for each time period on the southbound lanes of the expressway between point C and point B (sections B-4b, B-3b, B-2b, B-1b, and B, described later). Traffic congestion forecast information is acquired periodically (for example, every hour) from the Japan Road Traffic Information Center's server, and the traffic congestion forecast information is updated as needed. Therefore, the traffic information DB101b stores the current traffic congestion forecast information between point B and point C.

[0030] Transportation plan DB101c stores transportation plan information. This transportation plan information includes the driving plan information for vehicle X, changes to the driving plan information for vehicle X, driving route information showing the driving route for vehicle X from point B to point C, driving plan information for vehicle Y, changes to the driving plan information for vehicle Y, driving route information showing the driving route for vehicle Y from point C to point B, driving plan information for the first driver DA, changes to the driving plan information for the first driver DA, driving plan information for the second driver DD, and driving plan information for the second driver DD.

[0031] The vehicle X's driving plan information includes information such as the scheduled departure date and time from point A, parking location information at point B, scheduled arrival date and time at point B, scheduled departure date and time from point B, driving speed information between point B and point C, parking location information at point C, scheduled arrival date and time at point C, scheduled departure date and time from point C, and scheduled arrival date and time at point D. In addition, the vehicle X's transport plan information includes information such as the driver information of the first driver DA who drives vehicle X from point A to point B, the driver information of the second driver DD who drives vehicle X from point C to point D, the unlocking key information for unlocking vehicle X, and the locking key information for locking vehicle X.

[0032] The information regarding the change in the vehicle X's travel plan includes the revised scheduled departure date and time from point A, the revised parking location at point B, the revised scheduled arrival date and time at point B, the revised scheduled departure date and time from point B, the revised driving speed between point B and point C, the revised parking location at point C, the revised scheduled arrival date and time at point C, the revised scheduled departure date and time from point C, the revised scheduled arrival date and time at point D, the parking location at the nearest smart interchange, the revised scheduled arrival at the nearest smart interchange, the revised scheduled departure from the nearest smart interchange, the driving speed between the nearest smart interchange and point C, the revised driver information for the first driver DA who will drive vehicle X from point A to point B, the revised driver information for the second driver DD who will drive vehicle X from point C to point D, etc.

[0033] The vehicle Y's travel plan information includes the scheduled departure date and time from point D, parking location information at point C, scheduled arrival date and time at point C, scheduled departure date and time from point C, driving speed information between point C and point B, parking location information at point B, scheduled arrival date and time at point B, scheduled departure date and time from point B, and scheduled arrival date and time at point A. The vehicle Y's transport plan information includes driver information for the second driver DD who drives vehicle Y from point D to point C, driver information for the first driver DA who drives vehicle Y from point B to point A, unlocking key information for unlocking vehicle Y, locking key information for locking vehicle Y, and so on.

[0034] The information regarding the change in the vehicle Y's travel plan includes the revised scheduled departure date and time from point D, the revised parking location at point C, the revised scheduled arrival date and time at point C, the revised scheduled departure date and time from point C, the revised driving speed between point C and point B, the revised parking location at point B, the revised scheduled arrival date and time at point B, the revised scheduled departure date and time from point B, the revised scheduled arrival date and time at point A, the nearest smart interchange parking location, the nearest smart interchange arrival information, the nearest smart interchange departure information, the driving speed between the nearest smart interchange and point B, the revised driver information of the second driver DD who will drive vehicle Y from point C to point D, the revised driver information of the first driver DA who will drive vehicle Y from point B to point A, etc.

[0035] The driving plan information for the first driver DA includes information such as the key used to unlock vehicle X, the key used to lock vehicle X, the planned departure information for vehicle X from point A, the planned arrival date and time information for vehicle X at point B, the parking location information for vehicle X at point B, the key used to unlock vehicle Y, the key used to lock vehicle Y, the parking location information for vehicle Y at point B, the planned departure information for vehicle Y at point B, and the planned arrival date and time information for vehicle Y at point A.

[0036] The driving plan change information for the first driver DA includes information such as the key to unlock the modified vehicle X, the key to lock the modified vehicle X, the planned departure information for the modified vehicle X from point A, the planned arrival date and time information for the modified vehicle X at point B, the parking location information for the modified vehicle X at point B, the key to unlock the modified vehicle Y, the key to lock the modified vehicle Y, the parking location information for the modified vehicle Y at point B, the planned departure information for the modified vehicle Y at point B, and the planned arrival date and time information for the modified vehicle Y at point A.

[0037] The driving plan information for the second driver DD includes information such as the key used to unlock vehicle Y, the key used to lock vehicle Y, the scheduled departure information for vehicle Y from point D, the scheduled arrival date and time information for vehicle Y at point C, the parking location information for vehicle Y at point C, the key used to unlock vehicle X, the key used to lock vehicle X, the parking location information for vehicle X at point C, the scheduled departure information for vehicle X from point C, and the scheduled arrival date and time information for vehicle X at point D.

[0038] The driving plan change information for the second driver DD includes information such as the unlocking key information for unlocking the modified vehicle Y, the locking key information for locking the modified vehicle Y, the planned departure information for the modified vehicle Y from point D, the planned arrival date and time information for the modified vehicle Y at point C, the parking location information for the modified vehicle Y at point C, the unlocking key information for unlocking the modified vehicle X, the locking key information for locking the modified vehicle X, the parking location information for the modified vehicle X at point C, the planned departure information for the modified vehicle X at point C, and the planned arrival date and time information for the modified vehicle X at point D.

[0039] The control unit 102 includes a transport plan creation unit 102a, a transport plan modification unit 102b, a vehicle status management unit 102c, and a cargo compartment status management unit 102d.

[0040] The transportation plan creation unit 102a executes a transportation plan creation process to create the transportation plan information described above. Details of this transportation plan creation process will be described later using Figures 5 to 9.

[0041] The transportation plan modification unit 102b executes a transportation plan modification process to modify the transportation plan information created by the transportation plan creation unit 102a described above. Cases in which the transportation plan information is modified by the transportation plan modification unit 102b include when an event requiring modification occurs between point B and point C (point C and point B) before vehicle X (vehicle Y) departs from point A (point D), or when an event requiring modification occurs between point B and point C (point C and point B) while vehicle X (vehicle Y) is traveling from point A (point D) to point D (point A). If an event requiring modification occurs between point B and point C (point C and point B), the transportation plan modification unit 102b modifies the travel plan of vehicle X (vehicle Y). The modified travel plan is stored in the transportation plan DB 101c as travel plan modification information. Also, if an event requiring modification occurs between point B and point C (point C and point B), the transportation plan modification unit 102b modifies the travel plan of the first driver DA (second driver DD). The revised operating plan is stored in the transport plan DB101c as operating plan change information.

[0042] The vehicle status management unit 102c manages the current status of each vehicle X and Y based on vehicle status information transmitted from the in-vehicle system 200. The vehicle status management unit 102c also manages whether the vehicle's throttle control, brake control, steering control, etc., are in a good state based on the vehicle status information transmitted from the in-vehicle system 200. Furthermore, the vehicle status management unit 102c manages whether the drive control unit 208 is in a good state based on the vehicle status information transmitted from the in-vehicle system 200. Therefore, the items managed by the vehicle status management unit 102c include external conditions, throttle control, brake control, steering control, and drive control. The vehicle status information that forms the basis of this management is transmitted based on the recognition status by the vehicle status recognition unit 209b of the in-vehicle system 200. By receiving the vehicle status information, the vehicle status management unit 102c can determine whether the current control state of each vehicle is in a good state, a malfunctioning state, or an abnormal state.

[0043] The cargo compartment status management unit 102d manages the current status of the cargo compartments (loading status) of vehicles X and Y based on cargo compartment status information transmitted from the in-vehicle system 200. The cargo compartment status information that forms the basis of this management is transmitted based on the recognition status by the vehicle status recognition unit 209b of the in-vehicle system 200. By receiving the cargo compartment status information, the vehicle status management unit 102c can determine whether the cargo compartments of each vehicle are currently in a good state with no cargo collapse, or whether there is a possibility of cargo collapse (or whether cargo collapse has occurred). If there is no abnormality in the cargo compartment, the in-vehicle system 200 transmits information indicating that there is no abnormality in the cargo compartment, along with each captured image information and the acceleration value of each acceleration sensor, as cargo compartment status information. On the other hand, if an abnormality has occurred in the cargo compartment, or if an abnormality is suspected to have occurred, the system transmits information indicating that there is an abnormality in the cargo compartment, information indicating the location of the abnormality, along with each captured image information and the acceleration value of each acceleration sensor, as cargo compartment status information. The cargo compartment status management unit 102d receives this cargo compartment status information to understand the situation inside the cargo compartment of each vehicle.

[0044] The communication control I / F unit 103 conforms to various communication standards such as LAN (Local Area Network) standards and functions as an interface for communicating data with the in-vehicle system 200 and the driver terminal 300 via a communication line.

[0045] The input / output interface 104 functions as an interface for inputting information to the transport management device 100 and outputting information from the transport management device 100. The operation unit 105 and the display unit 106 are connected to the input / output interface 104.

[0046] The operation unit 105 is an information input device such as a keyboard or mouse, and the display unit 106 is an information output device such as a display.

[0047] (In-vehicle systems) The in-vehicle system 200 is mounted on vehicle X (vehicle Y). The in-vehicle system 200 includes a GPS (Global Positioning System) receiver 201, a navigation unit 202, a map information DB (database) 203, a driving plan storage unit 204, an external vehicle condition detection unit 205, a cargo compartment condition detection unit 206, a locking unit 207, a drive control unit 208, a driving control unit 209, a communication control I / F unit 210, an input / output I / F unit 211, an operation unit 212, an audio input / output unit 213, and a display unit 214. The in-vehicle system 200 also includes a driver terminal mounting unit (not shown) for mounting a driver terminal 300.

[0048] The GPS receiver 201 receives signals from multiple satellites, determines the distance from the satellites, and identifies the latitude and longitude of vehicle X (vehicle Y), thereby measuring the position of vehicle X (vehicle Y). It then transmits the measured position information to the driving control unit 209.

[0049] The navigation unit 202 sets a driving route from the current location of vehicle X (vehicle Y) to the destination, based on the position of vehicle X (vehicle Y) measured by the GPS receiver unit 201 and the map information in the map information DB 203. It then transmits the set driving route information to the driving control unit 209. The navigation unit 202 also sets a driving route for the unmanned automatic driving section of vehicle X (vehicle Y) based on the driving plan information and driving route information stored in the driving plan storage unit 204. It then transmits the set driving route information to the driving control unit 209.

[0050] The map information DB203 stores map information. In addition to road map information, the map information includes various road information such as speed limit information, road type information, road width information, number of lanes information, tunnel information, and elevated structure (pedestrian bridges, overpasses, etc.) information. Speed ​​limit information indicates the speed limit for each section of each road. Road type information indicates the type of road, such as expressways, prefectural roads, municipal roads, and side roads, the presence or absence of right-turn-only lanes or left-turn-only lanes, the presence or absence of intersections and turning points (corners), the curvature of curves, and the road's inclination angle. Road width information indicates the width of each road. Number of lanes information indicates the number of lanes on a road. Tunnel information indicates the distance of tunnels and height restrictions inside tunnels. Elevated structure information indicates height restrictions for pedestrian bridges and overpasses.

[0051] The driving plan storage unit 204 stores the driving plan information and driving route information created by the transport plan creation unit 102a described above. The driving plan information stored includes, in the case of vehicle X, driver information for the first driver DA who drives from point A to point B, driver information for the second driver DD who drives from point C to point D, unlocking key information for unlocking vehicle X, locking key information for locking vehicle X, scheduled departure date and time information for point A, scheduled parking location information for point B, scheduled arrival date and time information for point B, scheduled departure date and time information for point B, driving speed information between point B and point C, parking location information for point C, scheduled arrival date and time information for point C, scheduled departure date and time information for point C, scheduled arrival date and time information for point D, etc. Furthermore, the stored driving plan information includes, in the case of vehicle Y, driver information for the second driver DD who drives from point D to point C, driver information for the first driver DA who drives from point B to point A, unlocking key information for unlocking vehicle Y, locking key information for locking vehicle Y, scheduled departure date and time information for point D, scheduled parking location information for point C, scheduled arrival date and time information for point C, scheduled departure date and time information for point C, driving speed information between point C and point B, parking location information for point B, scheduled arrival date and time information for point B, scheduled departure date and time information for point B, scheduled arrival date and time information for point A, etc.

[0052] The external situation detection unit 205 includes an imaging device, sensors, etc., and transmits information indicating the external situation of vehicle X (vehicle Y) to the driving control unit 209. The imaging device consists of a front imaging device that images the area in front of vehicle X (vehicle Y), a rear imaging device that images the area behind vehicle X (vehicle Y), a right-side imaging device that images the right side of vehicle X (vehicle Y), and a left-side imaging device that images the left side of vehicle X (vehicle Y). Each imaging device transmits the captured image information to the driving control unit 209. The sensors consist of a LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) that irradiates laser light in front of vehicle X (vehicle Y) to detect objects and measure the distance and direction to objects, and a sonic sensor (ultrasonic sensor) etc. that detects obstacles at the corners of vehicle X (vehicle Y). Each sensor transmits the measured or detected information to the driving control unit 209.

[0053] The cargo compartment condition detection unit 206 includes an imaging device, sensors, etc., and transmits information indicating the condition inside the cargo compartment of vehicle X (vehicle Y) to the driving control unit 209. The imaging device consists of a front cargo compartment imaging device that images the inside of the cargo compartment from the front, and a rear cargo compartment imaging device that images the inside of the cargo compartment from the rear. Each imaging device transmits the captured image information to the driving control unit 209. The sensors consist of a longitudinal acceleration sensor that detects acceleration in the longitudinal direction of vehicle X (vehicle Y), and a lateral acceleration sensor that detects acceleration in the lateral direction of vehicle X (vehicle Y), etc. Each sensor transmits the detected acceleration information to the driving control unit 209.

[0054] The locking unit 207 is equipped with a locking mechanism and locks the doors and cargo area of ​​vehicle X (vehicle Y).

[0055] The drive control unit 208 performs drive control of vehicle X (vehicle Y). The drive control unit 208 includes a throttle control unit, a brake control unit, a steering control unit, a vehicle speed detection sensor, a yaw rate sensor, etc. The drive control unit 208 performs throttle control by the throttle control unit in response to a throttle control signal from the driving control unit 209. The drive control unit 208 also performs brake control by the brake control unit in response to a brake control signal from the driving control unit 209. Furthermore, the drive control unit 208 performs steering control by the steering control unit in response to a steering control signal from the driving control unit 209. The vehicle speed sensor detects the rotational speed of the wheels. The yaw rate sensor detects the rotational angle of vehicle X (vehicle Y) in the turning direction. The drive control unit 208 transmits the rotational speed information detected by the vehicle speed sensor and the yaw rate information detected by the yaw rate sensor to the ECU 10.

[0056] The driving control unit 209 includes a current position recognition unit 209a, a vehicle state recognition unit 209b, a driving state recognition unit 209c, a driving control unit 209d, and a locking control unit 209e.

[0057] The current location recognition unit 209a recognizes the current location of vehicle X (vehicle Y) at regular intervals (every second) based on the current location information from the GPS receiver unit 201 and the map information from the map information DB 203. It then transmits the recognized current location information to the transport management device 100. When the current location recognition unit 209a recognizes that vehicle X (vehicle Y) has departed from point A, it transmits the departure date and time information from point A to the transport management device 100. Furthermore, when the current location recognition unit 209a recognizes that vehicle X (vehicle Y) has arrived at point B, it transmits the parking location information from point B and the arrival date and time information from point B to the transport management device 100. When it recognizes that vehicle X (vehicle Y) has departed from point B, it transmits the departure date and time information from point B to the transport management device 100. Furthermore, when the current location recognition unit 209a recognizes the current location and recognizes that vehicle X (vehicle Y) has arrived at point C, it transmits parking location information and arrival date and time information for point C to the transport management device 100. When it recognizes that vehicle X (vehicle Y) has departed from point C, it transmits departure date and time information for point C to the transport management device 100. Also, when the current location recognition unit 209a recognizes the current location and recognizes that vehicle X (vehicle Y) has arrived at point D, it transmits arrival date and time information for point D to the transport management device 100. When it recognizes that vehicle X (vehicle Y) has departed from point D, it transmits departure date and time information for point D to the transport management device 100.

[0058] Furthermore, the current location recognition unit 209a, upon recognizing the current location, transmits the date and time information for passing point B1 to the transport management device 100 when it recognizes that vehicle X (vehicle Y) has passed point B1, and transmits the date and time information for passing point B1 to the transport management device 100 when it recognizes that vehicle X (vehicle Y) has departed from point B2. Also, the current location recognition unit 209a, upon recognizing the current location, transmits the date and time information for passing point B3 to the transport management device 100 when it recognizes that vehicle X (vehicle Y) has passed point B3, and transmits the date and time information for passing point B4 to the transport management device 100 when it recognizes that vehicle X (vehicle Y) has passed point B4.

[0059] The vehicle state recognition unit 209b recognizes the current external conditions based on information transmitted from the external conditions detection unit 205, and recognizes the current cargo compartment conditions based on information transmitted from the cargo compartment conditions detection unit 206. The vehicle state recognition unit 209b also transmits the recognized external conditions as vehicle state information to the transport management device 100, and transmits the recognized cargo compartment conditions as cargo compartment condition information to the transport management device 100. If the vehicle state recognition unit 209b recognizes that there are no abnormalities outside the vehicle, it transmits information indicating that there are no abnormalities outside the vehicle as vehicle state information to the transport management device 100. On the other hand, if the vehicle state recognition unit 209b recognizes that an abnormality has occurred outside the vehicle, it transmits information indicating that an abnormality has occurred outside the vehicle and information indicating the location of the abnormality as vehicle state information to the transport management device 100. Furthermore, if the vehicle state recognition unit 209b recognizes that there are no abnormalities inside the cargo compartment, it transmits information indicating that there are no abnormalities inside the cargo compartment, along with each captured image information and the acceleration values ​​of each acceleration sensor, as cargo compartment condition information to the transport management device 100. On the other hand, if the vehicle condition recognition unit 209b recognizes that an abnormality has occurred or is likely to occur in the cargo compartment, it transmits information indicating that there is an abnormality in the cargo compartment, information indicating the location of the abnormality, each captured image information, and the acceleration value of each acceleration sensor to the transport management device 100 as cargo compartment condition information.

[0060] Furthermore, the vehicle state recognition unit 209b recognizes whether the drive control of vehicle X (vehicle Y) by the drive control unit 208 is in a good state or a malfunction (or abnormal state). The vehicle state recognition unit 209b diagnoses whether the throttle control (acceleration / deceleration performance) in response to the throttle control signal from the driving control unit 209 is as set. The vehicle state recognition unit 209b also diagnoses whether the brake control (braking effectiveness) in response to the brake control signal from the driving control unit 209 is as set. Furthermore, the vehicle state recognition unit 209b diagnoses whether the steering control (rotation angle in response to the steering control signal) in response to the steering control signal from the driving control unit 209 is as set. Finally, the vehicle state recognition unit 209b diagnoses whether any abnormal noises are being generated from the drive control unit 208, etc. Based on these diagnostic results, if the vehicle state recognition unit 209b recognizes that the drive control state of vehicle X (vehicle Y) by the drive control unit 208 is in a good state, it transmits information indicating that it is in a good state and the control values ​​of each control as vehicle state information to the transport management device 100. On the other hand, if the vehicle state recognition unit 209b recognizes that the drive control state of vehicle X (vehicle Y) by the drive control unit 208 is in a malfunction (or abnormal) state, it transmits information indicating the location of the malfunction (or abnormal) state and the control values ​​of each control as vehicle state information to the transport management device 100.

[0061] The driving state recognition unit 209c recognizes the driving speed and direction of vehicle X (vehicle Y) based on the rotational speed information and yaw rate information received from the drive control unit 208.

[0062] The driving control unit 209d switches between manned driving control and unmanned automatic driving control based on the recognition of the current position of vehicle X (vehicle Y) by the current position recognition unit 209a. In manned driving control, it performs driving control by outputting driving control signals to the drive control unit 208 in accordance with the driving operations of the driver. In unmanned automatic driving control, it performs automatic driving control in the unmanned automatic driving section by outputting driving control signals to the drive control unit 208 in accordance with the driving plan information and driving route information stored in the driving plan storage unit 204.

[0063] The locking control unit 209e outputs a locking signal to the locking unit 207 to lock the locking mechanism, and an unlocking signal to unlock the locking mechanism. The locking control unit 209e compares the unlocking key information transmitted from the driver terminal 300 with the unlocking key information registered in the locking control unit 209e, and if the comparison matches, outputs an unlocking signal to the locking unit 207. On the other hand, the locking control unit 209e outputs a locking signal to the locking unit 207 when the driver terminal 300 is a predetermined distance (for example, 5m) away from vehicle X (vehicle Y), or when it receives a locking request signal from the driver terminal 300.

[0064] The communication control I / F unit 210 functions as an interface for communicating data with the transport management device 100 and the driver terminal 300 via a communication line.

[0065] The input / output interface unit 211 functions as an interface for inputting information to the operation control unit 209 and outputting information from the operation control unit 209. The operation unit 212, the audio input / output unit 213, and the display unit 214 are connected to the input / output interface unit 211.

[0066] The operation unit 212 is an information input device such as a keyboard or touchscreen including a touch panel; the audio input / output unit 213 is an information input / output device consisting of a speaker and a microphone; and the display unit 214 is an information output device such as a display.

[0067] (Driver's office) The driver terminal 300 is a terminal held by the first driver DA (second driver DD). When driving vehicle X (vehicle Y), it is attached to the driver terminal mounting section (not shown) provided in the in-vehicle system 200. In addition to the functions of a so-called mobile phone, the driver terminal 300 includes a GPS receiver 301, a key information storage unit 302, a driving plan storage unit 303, a terminal control unit 304, a communication control I / F unit 305, an input / output I / F unit 306, an operation unit 307, an audio input / output unit 308, and a display unit 309.

[0068] The GPS receiver 301 receives signals from multiple satellites, determines the distance from the satellites, and identifies the latitude and longitude of the driver terminal 300, thereby measuring the position of the driver terminal 300. It then transmits the measured position information to the terminal control unit 304.

[0069] The key information storage unit 302 stores unlocking key information for unlocking vehicle X, locking key information for locking vehicle X, unlocking key information for unlocking vehicle Y, and locking key information for locking vehicle Y, all transmitted from the transport management device 100. The key information stored in the key information storage unit 302 is deleted from the key information storage unit 302 by the terminal control unit 304 upon receiving an erase instruction from the transport management device 100.

[0070] The driving plan storage unit 303 stores the driving plan information created by the transport plan creation unit 102a described above. The stored driving plan information includes, in the case of the first driver DA, the vehicle number of vehicle X, the scheduled departure date and time of vehicle X from point A, the parking location of vehicle X at point B, the scheduled arrival date and time of vehicle X at point B, the vehicle number of vehicle Y, the parking location of vehicle Y at point B, the scheduled departure date and time of vehicle Y at point B, the scheduled arrival date and time of vehicle Y at point A, etc. In the case of the second driver DD, the stored driving plan information includes the vehicle number of vehicle Y, the scheduled departure date and time of vehicle Y at point D, the parking location of vehicle Y at point C, the scheduled arrival date and time of vehicle Y at point C, the vehicle number of vehicle X, the parking location of vehicle X at point C, the scheduled departure date and time of vehicle X at point C, the scheduled arrival date and time of vehicle X at point D, etc.

[0071] The terminal control unit 304 includes a locking / unlocking instruction unit 304a and an operation plan execution unit 304b.

[0072] The locking / unlocking instruction unit 304a transmits the unlocking key information and locking key information for vehicle X stored in the key information storage unit 302 to the vehicle X's onboard system 200 in response to the operation of the first driver DA (second driver DD), thereby instructing the onboard system 200's driving control unit 209 to unlock or lock vehicle X. Similarly, the locking / unlocking instruction unit 304a transmits the unlocking key information and locking key information for vehicle Y stored in the key information storage unit 302 to the vehicle Y's onboard system 200 in response to the operation of the first driver DA (second driver DD), thereby instructing the onboard system 200's driving control unit 209 to unlock or lock vehicle Y.

[0073] The driving plan execution unit 304b displays the actions that the first driver DA (second driver DD) should perform on the display unit 309, based on the driving plan information stored in the driving plan storage unit 303 and the location information of the driver terminal 300 from the GPS receiver unit 301.

[0074] The driver terminal 300 held by the first driver DA will display, for example, the following information: If the first driver DA is at point A, the vehicle number of vehicle X and the scheduled departure date and time of vehicle X from point A will be displayed on the display unit 309. If the first driver DA is driving vehicle X from point A to point B, the parking location information of vehicle X at point B and the scheduled arrival date and time of vehicle X at point B will be displayed on the display unit 309. If the first driver DA has arrived at point B and plans to drive vehicle Y next, the vehicle number of vehicle Y, the parking location information of vehicle Y at point B, the scheduled arrival date and time of vehicle Y at point B, and the scheduled departure date and time of vehicle Y from point B will be displayed on the display unit 309. On the other hand, if the first driver DA has arrived at point B and does not plan to drive vehicle Y next, the method of returning to point A will be displayed on the display unit 309. If the first driver DA is driving vehicle Y from point B to point A, the scheduled arrival date and time of vehicle Y at point A will be displayed on the display unit 309.

[0075] Furthermore, the driver terminal 300 held by the second driver DD will display, for example, the following: If the second driver DD is at point D, the vehicle number of vehicle Y and the scheduled departure date and time of vehicle Y from point D will be displayed on the display unit 309. If the second driver DD is driving vehicle Y from point D towards point C, the parking location information of vehicle Y at point C and the scheduled arrival date and time of vehicle Y at point C will be displayed on the display unit 309. If the second driver DD has arrived at point C and plans to drive vehicle X next, the vehicle number of vehicle X, the parking location information of vehicle X at point C, the scheduled arrival date and time of vehicle X at point C, and the scheduled departure date and time of vehicle X from point C will be displayed on the display unit 309. On the other hand, if the second driver DD has arrived at point C and does not plan to drive vehicle X next, the method of returning to point D will be displayed on the display unit 309. Furthermore, if the second driver DD is driving vehicle X from point C towards point D, the display unit 309 will display the estimated date and time of vehicle X's arrival at point D.

[0076] The communication control I / F unit 305 functions as an interface for communicating data with the transport management device 100 and the in-vehicle system 200 via a communication line.

[0077] The input / output interface unit 306 functions as an interface for inputting information to the terminal control unit 304 and outputting information from the terminal control unit 304. The operation unit 307, the audio input / output unit 308, and the display unit 309 are connected to the input / output interface unit 306.

[0078] The operation unit 307 is an information input device such as a keyboard or touchscreen including a touch panel; the audio input / output unit 308 is an information input / output device consisting of a speaker and a microphone; and the display unit 309 is an information output device such as a display.

[0079] (Transportation status of vehicle X) Next, the transportation status of each vehicle X managed by the transportation management device 100 will be explained using Figure 3.

[0080] Figure 3 shows the first transport status management screen 500 displayed on the display unit 106 of the transport management device 100. By referring to this first transport status management screen 500, the operator can check the travel history and current status of each vehicle X traveling from point A to point D.

[0081] Information for location A is displayed on the location A information display unit 501. Information for location B is displayed on the location B information display unit 502. Since location B is a smart interchange on a highway, the congestion status of that smart interchange is displayed. The congestion status is displayed as follows: "○" indicates no congestion, "△" indicates moderate congestion, and "×" indicates congestion.

[0082] The B-C traffic condition display unit 503 displays the current traffic conditions at each passing point between point B and point C. Here, passing points are, for example, interchanges, parking areas, service areas, etc. that exist between point B and point C. "B-1a" indicates the section between point B and point B1, "B-2a" indicates the section between point B1 and point B2, "B-3a" indicates the section between point B2 and point B3, "B-4a" indicates the section between point B3 and point B4, and "C" indicates the section between point B4 and point C. The traffic condition display is as follows: "○" indicates no congestion, "△" indicates congestion of less than 5km, "▲" indicates congestion of 5km or more, and "×" indicates an accident has occurred.

[0083] The C point information display unit 504 displays information about point C. Since point C is a smart interchange on a highway, the congestion status of that smart interchange is displayed. The congestion status is displayed as follows: "○" indicates no congestion, "△" indicates moderate congestion, and "×" indicates congestion. The D point information display unit 505 displays information about point D. The D point → A point switching display unit 506 is a button that is clicked by the operator using the mouse to switch the display to the second transport status management screen 600.

[0084] 510 is a transport status display unit for vehicle X01. The first driver information display unit 510a displays driver information for the first driver DA who is driving vehicle X01 from point A to point B.

[0085] The A-point departure information display unit 510b displays the scheduled departure date and time of vehicle X01 from point A, and the actual departure date and time of vehicle X01 from point A. The scheduled departure date and time of vehicle X01 from point A is displayed based on the vehicle X01's travel plan information stored in the travel plan storage unit 204. The actual departure date and time of vehicle X01 from point A is displayed when the transport management device 100 receives the A-point departure date and time information transmitted from the vehicle X01's onboard system 200.

[0086] The B-point arrival / departure information display unit 510c displays the planned parking location of vehicle X01 at B, the actual parking location of vehicle X01 at B, the planned arrival date and time of vehicle X01 at B, the planned arrival date and time of vehicle X01 at B, the planned departure date and time of vehicle X01 at B, and the planned departure date and time of vehicle X01 at B. The planned parking location of vehicle X01 at B, the planned arrival date and time of vehicle X01 at B, and the planned departure date and time of vehicle X01 at B are displayed based on the vehicle X01's travel plan information stored in the travel plan storage unit 204. In addition, the B-point parking location of vehicle X01, the B-point arrival date and time of vehicle X01, and the B-point departure date and time of vehicle X01 are displayed when the transport management device 100 receives the B-point parking location information, B-point arrival date and time information, and B-point departure date and time information transmitted from the vehicle X01's onboard system 200.

[0087] The unmanned automatic driving section passage status display unit 510d displays the date and time when vehicle X01 passed point B1, the date and time when vehicle X01 passed point B2, the date and time when vehicle X01 passed point B3, and the date and time when vehicle X01 passed point B4. These passage dates and times are displayed when the transportation management device 100 receives the passage date and time information for each point transmitted from the vehicle X01's onboard system 200.

[0088] The C-point arrival / departure information display unit 510e displays the planned parking location of vehicle X01 at C, the actual parking location of vehicle X01 at C, the planned arrival date and time of vehicle X01 at C, the planned arrival date and time of vehicle X01 at C, the planned departure date and time of vehicle X01 at C, and the planned departure date and time of vehicle X01 at C. The planned parking location of vehicle X01 at C, the planned arrival date and time of vehicle X01 at C, and the planned departure date and time of vehicle X01 at C are displayed based on the vehicle X01's travel plan information stored in the travel plan storage unit 204. In addition, the C-point parking location of vehicle X01, the C-point arrival date and time of vehicle X01, and the C-point departure date and time of vehicle X01 are displayed when the transport management device 100 receives the C-point parking location information, C-point arrival date and time information, and C-point departure date and time information transmitted from the vehicle X01's onboard system 200.

[0089] The second driver information display unit 510f displays the driver information of the second driver DD who drives vehicle X01 from point C to point D.

[0090] The departure information display unit 510g for point D displays the scheduled arrival date and time of vehicle X01 at point D, and the actual arrival date and time of vehicle X01 at point D. The scheduled arrival date and time of vehicle X01 at point D is displayed based on the vehicle X01's travel plan information stored in the travel plan storage unit 204. The actual arrival date and time of vehicle X01 at point D is displayed when the transport management device 100 receives the arrival date and time information for point D transmitted from the vehicle X01's onboard system 200.

[0091] The status display unit 510h displays the vehicle status of vehicle X01 and the cargo status of vehicle X01. The vehicle status display shows "○" as good, "△" as poor, and "×" as abnormal. The cargo status display shows "○" as no problems, "△" as possibly collapsed, and "×" as collapsed.

[0092] The transport status display unit 520 of vehicle X02 and the transport status display unit 530 of vehicle X03 are also displayed in the same manner as the transport status display unit 510 of vehicle X01 described above.

[0093] The areas highlighted in bold on the first transport status management screen 500 indicate the progress of each vehicle X at the current date and time. Therefore, it can be seen that vehicle X01 arrived at parking position C25 at point C at 12:55. It can also be seen that vehicle X02 passed point B4 at 13:05 and is currently traveling towards point C. Furthermore, it can be seen that vehicle X03 arrived at parking position B11 at point B at 13:02.

[0094] (Transportation status of vehicle Y) Next, the transportation status of each vehicle Y managed by the transportation management device 100 will be explained using Figure 4.

[0095] Figure 4 shows the second transport status management screen 600 displayed on the display unit 106 of the transport management device 100. By referring to this second transport status management screen 600, the operator can check the travel history and current status of each vehicle Y traveling from point D to point A.

[0096] The D-point information display unit 601 displays information about point D. The C-point information display unit 602 displays information about point C. Since point C is a smart interchange on a highway, the congestion status of that smart interchange is displayed. The congestion status is displayed as follows: "○" indicates no congestion, "△" indicates moderate congestion, and "×" indicates congestion.

[0097] The C-B traffic condition display unit 603 displays the current traffic conditions at each passing point between point C and point B. Here, passing points refer to interchanges, parking areas, service areas, etc., located between point C and point B. The "B-4b" section indicates the section from point C to point B4, the "B-3b" section indicates the section from point B4 to point B3, the "B-2b" section indicates the section from point B3 to point B2, the "B-1b" section indicates the section from point B2 to point B1, and the "B" section indicates the section from point B1 to point B. The traffic condition display is as follows: "○" indicates no congestion, "△" indicates congestion of less than 5km, "▲" indicates congestion of 5km or more, and "×" indicates an accident has occurred.

[0098] The B-point information display unit 604 displays information about point B. Since point B is a smart interchange on a highway, the congestion status of that smart interchange is displayed. The congestion status is displayed as follows: "○" indicates no congestion, "△" indicates moderate congestion, and "×" indicates congestion. The A-point information display unit 605 displays information about point A. The A-point → D-point switching display unit 606 is a button that is clicked by the operator using the mouse to switch the display to the first transport status management screen 500.

[0099] 610 is the transport status display unit for vehicle Y01. The second driver information display unit 610a displays the driver information of the second driver DD who is driving vehicle Y01 from point D to point C.

[0100] The D-point departure information display unit 610b displays the scheduled departure date and time of vehicle Y01 from point D, and the actual departure date and time of vehicle Y01 from point D. The scheduled departure date and time of vehicle Y01 from point D is displayed based on the vehicle Y01's travel plan information stored in the travel plan storage unit 204. The actual departure date and time of vehicle Y01 from point D is displayed when the transport management device 100 receives the D-point departure date and time information transmitted from the vehicle Y01's onboard system 200.

[0101] The C-point arrival / departure information display unit 610c displays the planned parking location of vehicle Y01 at C, the actual parking location of vehicle Y01 at C, the planned arrival date and time of vehicle Y01 at C, the planned arrival date and time of vehicle Y01 at C, the planned departure date and time of vehicle Y01 at C, and the planned departure date and time of vehicle Y01 at C. The planned parking location of vehicle Y01 at C, the planned arrival date and time of vehicle Y01 at C, and the planned departure date and time of vehicle Y01 at C are displayed based on the vehicle Y01's travel plan information stored in the travel plan storage unit 204. In addition, the C-point parking location of vehicle Y01, the C-point arrival date and time of vehicle Y01, and the C-point departure date and time of vehicle Y01 are displayed when the transport management device 100 receives the C-point parking location information, C-point arrival date and time information, and C-point departure date and time information transmitted from the vehicle Y01's onboard system 200.

[0102] The unmanned automatic driving section passage status display unit 610d displays the date and time of vehicle Y01's passage through point B4, point B3, point B2, and point B1. These passage dates and times are displayed when the transportation management device 100 receives the passage date and time information for each point transmitted from the vehicle Y01's onboard system 200.

[0103] The B-point arrival / departure information display unit 610e displays the planned parking location of vehicle Y01 at B, the actual parking location of vehicle Y01 at B, the planned arrival date and time of vehicle Y01 at B, the planned arrival date and time of vehicle Y01 at B, the planned departure date and time of vehicle Y01 at B, and the planned departure date and time of vehicle Y01 at B. The planned parking location of vehicle Y01 at B, the planned arrival date and time of vehicle Y01 at B, and the planned departure date and time of vehicle Y01 at B are displayed based on the vehicle Y01's travel plan information stored in the travel plan storage unit 204. In addition, the B-point parking location of vehicle Y01, the B-point arrival date and time of vehicle Y01, and the B-point departure date and time of vehicle Y01 are displayed when the transport management device 100 receives the B-point parking location information, B-point arrival date and time information, and B-point departure date and time information transmitted from the vehicle Y01's onboard system 200.

[0104] The first driver information display unit 610f displays the driver information of the first driver DA who drives vehicle Y01 from point B to point A.

[0105] The departure information display unit 610g for point A displays the scheduled date and time of vehicle Y01's arrival at point A, and the scheduled date and time of vehicle Y01's arrival at point A. The scheduled date and time of vehicle Y01's arrival at point A is displayed based on the vehicle Y01's travel plan information stored in the travel plan storage unit 204. The scheduled date and time of vehicle Y01's arrival at point A is displayed when the transport management device 100 receives the arrival date and time information for point A transmitted from the vehicle Y01's onboard system 200.

[0106] The status display unit 610h displays the vehicle status of vehicle Y01 and the cargo status of vehicle Y01. The vehicle status display shows "○" for good, "△" for malfunction, and "×" for abnormal. The cargo status display shows "○" for no problems, "△" for possible collapse, and "×" for collapsed.

[0107] The transport status display unit 620 of vehicle Y02 and the transport status display unit 630 of vehicle Y03 are also displayed in the same manner as the transport status display unit 610 of vehicle Y01 described above.

[0108] The areas highlighted in bold on the second transport status management screen 600 indicate the progress of each vehicle Y at the current date and time. Therefore, it can be seen that vehicle Y01 arrived at parking location B12 at point B at 13:10. It can also be seen that vehicle Y02 passed point B2 at 12:25 and is currently traveling towards point B1. Furthermore, it can be seen that vehicle Y03 departed point C at 13:00.

[0109] (Transportation plan creation process) Next, the transportation plan creation process performed by the transportation plan creation unit 102a will be explained using Figures 5 to 9.

[0110] Figure 5 is a flowchart of the transportation plan creation process performed by the transportation plan creation unit 102a. Figure 6 is a flowchart of transportation plan creation process 1 in the transportation plan creation process. Figure 7 is a flowchart of transportation plan creation process 2 in the transportation plan creation process. Figure 8 is a flowchart of the arrival prediction process in transportation plan creation process 1 and transportation plan creation process 2. Figure 9 is a flowchart of transportation plan creation process 3 in the transportation plan creation process.

[0111] First, in step S11, the transportation plan creation unit 102a determines whether or not to create a transportation plan based on the arrival of vehicle Y at point B. If it determines that a transportation plan should be created based on the arrival of vehicle Y at point B, the process proceeds to step S12. On the other hand, if it determines that a transportation plan should not be created based on the arrival of vehicle Y at point B, the process proceeds to step S13.

[0112] If it is determined that a transportation plan should be created based on the arrival of vehicle Y at point B, the transportation plan creation unit 102a executes the transportation plan process 1 in step S12.

[0113] If it is determined that a transportation plan will not be created based on the arrival of vehicle Y at point B, the transportation plan creation unit 102a determines in step S13 whether or not to create a transportation plan that is timed to coincide with the arrival of vehicle X at point C. If it is determined that a transportation plan will be created that is timed to coincide with the arrival of vehicle X at point C, the process proceeds to step S14. On the other hand, if it is determined that a transportation plan will not be created that is timed to coincide with the arrival of vehicle X at point C, the process proceeds to step S15.

[0114] If it is determined that a transport plan will not be created based on the arrival of vehicle X at point C, the transport plan creation unit 102a determines in step S15 whether or not to create a transport plan based on the driving plans of each driver DA and DD. If it is determined that a transport plan will be created based on the driving plans of each driver DA and DD, the process proceeds to step S16. On the other hand, if it is determined that a transport plan will not be created based on the driving plans of each driver DA and DD, the transport plan creation process ends.

[0115] (Transportation plan creation process 1) Next, we will explain the transportation plan creation process 1 using Figure 6.

[0116] First, in step S101, the transportation planning unit 102a selects the scheduled date and time of vehicle Y's arrival at point B.

[0117] Next, in step S102, the transportation plan creation unit 102a performs arrival prediction processing. Here, the arrival prediction processing will be explained using Figure 8.

[0118] In step S1001, the transport planning unit 102a determines whether the target of the arrival prediction is vehicle X. If the target of the arrival prediction is vehicle X, the process proceeds to step S1002. On the other hand, if the target of the arrival prediction is not vehicle X, the process proceeds to step S1006.

[0119] Next, in step S1002, the transport plan creation unit 102a determines whether or not to make a prediction based on the expected arrival date and time of vehicle X at point C. If it determines that it should make a prediction based on the expected arrival date and time of vehicle X at point C, it proceeds to step S1003. On the other hand, if it determines that it should not make a prediction based on the expected arrival date and time of vehicle X at point C, it determines that it should make a prediction based on the expected arrival date and time of vehicle X at point B, and proceeds to step S1004.

[0120] If it is determined that the estimated arrival time of vehicle X at point C can be used for prediction, in step S1003 the transport plan creation unit 102a confirms the estimated arrival time of vehicle X at point C. This process of "confirming the estimated arrival time of vehicle X at point C" is referred to as process (1).

[0121] On the other hand, if it is determined that the estimated arrival time of vehicle X at point B should be used for prediction, in step S1004 the transport plan creation unit 102a confirms the estimated arrival time of vehicle X at point B. This process of "confirming the estimated arrival time of vehicle X at point B" is referred to as process (2).

[0122] Next, in step S1005, if the transport planning unit 102a executes the process of step S1005 following the process of step S1003, it determines the time zones for each section (section B-1a, section B-2a, section B-3a, section B-4a, section C) between points B and C by vehicle X by calculating backward from the scheduled arrival date and time of vehicle X at point C. On the other hand, in step S1005, if the transport planning unit 102a executes the process of step S1005 following the process of step S1004, it determines the time zones for each section (section B-1a, section B-2a, section B-3a, section B-4a, section C) between points B and C by vehicle X based on the scheduled arrival date and time of vehicle X at point B.

[0123] In step S1001, if the vehicle to be predicted is not vehicle X, the transport planning unit 102a identifies the vehicle to be predicted as vehicle Y. Then, in step S1006, the transport planning unit 102a determines whether or not to make a prediction based on the expected arrival date and time of vehicle Y at point B. If it determines to make a prediction based on the expected arrival date and time of vehicle Y at point B, the process proceeds to step S1007. On the other hand, if it determines not to make a prediction based on the expected arrival date and time of vehicle Y at point B, it determines to make a prediction based on the expected arrival date and time of vehicle Y at point C, and the process proceeds to step S1008.

[0124] If it is determined that the estimated arrival time of vehicle Y at point B can be used for prediction, in step S1007 the transport plan creation unit 102a confirms the estimated arrival time of vehicle Y at point B. This process of "confirming the estimated arrival time of vehicle Y at point B" is referred to as process (3).

[0125] On the other hand, if it is determined that the estimated arrival time of vehicle Y at point C should be used for prediction, in step S1008 the transport plan creation unit 102a confirms the estimated arrival time of vehicle Y at point C. This process of "confirming the estimated arrival time of vehicle Y at point C" is referred to as process (4).

[0126] Next, in step S1009, if the transport planning unit 102a executes the process of step S1009 following the process of step S1007, it determines the time zones for each section (section B-4b, section B-3b, section B-2b, section B-1b, section B) between points C and B for vehicle Y by calculating backward from the scheduled arrival date and time of vehicle Y at point B. On the other hand, in step S1009, if the transport planning unit 102a executes the process of step S1009 following the process of step S1008, it determines the time zones for each section (section B-4b, section B-3b, section B-2b, section B-1b, section B) between points C and B for vehicle Y by calculating backward from the scheduled arrival date and time of vehicle Y.

[0127] Next, in step S1010, the transportation planning unit 102a refers to the congestion forecast information for the time of passage of each section stored in the traffic information DB 101b. In step S1010, if vehicle X is used (when the processes in (1) and (2) above are executed), the transportation planning unit 102a refers to the congestion forecast information for the time of passage of each section between point B and point C (section B-1a, section B-2a, section B-3a, section B-4a, section C). On the other hand, in step S1010, if vehicle Y is used (when the processes in (3) and (4) above are executed), the transportation planning unit 102a refers to the congestion forecast information for the time of passage of each section between point C and point B (section B-4b, section B-3b, section B-2b, section B-1b, section B).

[0128] Next, in step S1011, the transportation plan creation unit 102a determines whether or not there are any sections for which congestion is predicted in the referenced congestion forecast information. If it determines that there are sections for which congestion is predicted in the referenced congestion forecast information, the process proceeds to step S1012. On the other hand, if it determines that there are no sections for which congestion is predicted in the referenced congestion forecast information, the process proceeds to step S1016.

[0129] If it is determined that there is a section where traffic congestion is predicted, in step S1012 the transportation planning unit 102a checks the predicted distance of congestion and the predicted time of passage for the section where congestion is predicted.

[0130] Next, in step S1013, the transportation planning unit 102a sets the date and time of passing a point, taking into account the confirmed congestion forecast. Here, for example, the transportation planning unit 102a assumes that in section B-1a (between point B and point B1), where the section distance is 45 km and it can be passed through in 30 minutes by driving at an average speed of 75 km / h if there is no congestion, a 5 km congestion is expected, and it will take 20 minutes to pass through the congested area. In this case, the transportation planning unit 102a estimates the time to pass through the congested area as 20 minutes + 10 minutes of buffer time, totaling 30 minutes. Then, assuming that the remaining 40 km is driven at an average speed of 75 km / h, it estimates 32 minutes, and sets the time to pass point B1 as 62 minutes (average speed 43.5 km / h).

[0131] Next, in step S1014, the transportation planning unit 102a calculates the average travel speed for each section. Here, for vehicle X, the transportation planning unit 102a calculates the average speed for each section between point B and point C (section B-1a, section B-2a, section B-3a, section B-4a, section C). Also, for vehicle Y, the transportation planning unit 102a calculates the average speed for each section between point C and point B (section B-4b, section B-3b, section B-2b, section B-1b, section B).

[0132] Next, in step S1015, the transportation planning unit 102a subtracts 5 km from the average speed of each section calculated in step S1014 to correct for any discrepancies, such as when the actual congestion distance is longer than the predicted congestion distance.

[0133] If it is determined in step S1011 that there are no sections where congestion is predicted, then in step S1016, the transportation plan creation unit 102a sets the time and date for passing through points without congestion for the entire section.

[0134] Next, in step S1017, the transportation planning unit 102a calculates the average travel speed for each section. Here, for vehicle X, the transportation planning unit 102a calculates the average speed for each section between point B and point C (section B-1a, section B-2a, section B-3a, section B-4a, section C). Also, for vehicle Y, the transportation planning unit 102a calculates the average speed for each section between point C and point B (section B-4b, section B-3b, section B-2b, section B-1b, section B).

[0135] Next, in step S1018, the transportation planning unit 102a corrects for fluctuations in actual travel (in case of congestion, etc.) by subtracting 2 km from the average speed of each section calculated in step S1017.

[0136] Next, in step S1019, the transport planning unit 102a creates driving speed control data. Here, for example, in the case of vehicle X, the transport planning unit 102a calculates that the average speed between point B and point C is 75 km / h for section B-1a, 78 km / h for section B-2a, 78 km / h for section B-3a, 78 km / h for section B-4a, and 73 km / h for section C. Note that the processing from steps S1012 to S1015 and the processing from steps S1016 to S1018 may be omitted. In other words, at the stage of creating the driving plan, only the arrival date and time may be set, and the driving speed may not be set. In this way, it is conceivable that vehicle X (vehicle Y) will adjust its speed according to the arrival date and time based on its own judgment (such as whether there is congestion or road conditions).

[0137] Next, in step S1020, if the transport plan creation unit 102a has performed process (1) (processing in step S1003) or process (4) (processing in step S1008), it calculates the scheduled arrival date and time at point B and the scheduled departure date and time at point B.

[0138] In other words, based on the estimated arrival time of vehicle X at point C, speed control data is created for the section between point B and point C. The estimated arrival time of vehicle X at point B and the estimated departure time of vehicle X from point B are then calculated using this speed control data. For example, the estimated departure time of vehicle X from point B may be set to 30 minutes after the estimated arrival time of vehicle X at point B.

[0139] Furthermore, based on the estimated arrival time and date of vehicle Y at point C, speed control data is created for the section between point C and point B. The estimated arrival time and date and departure time of vehicle Y at point B are then calculated using this speed control data. For example, the estimated departure time and date of vehicle Y at point B may be set to 60 minutes after the estimated arrival time and date of vehicle Y at point B.

[0140] Furthermore, in step S1020, if the transport plan creation unit 102a performs process (2) (processing in step S1004) or process (3) (processing in step S1007), it calculates the scheduled arrival date and time at point C and the scheduled departure date and time at point C.

[0141] In other words, based on the estimated arrival time of vehicle X at point B, speed control data is created for the section between point B and point C. The estimated arrival time of vehicle X at point C and the estimated departure time of vehicle X from point C are then calculated using this speed control data. For example, the estimated departure time of vehicle X from point C may be set to 60 minutes after the estimated arrival time of vehicle X at point C.

[0142] Furthermore, based on the estimated arrival time of vehicle Y at point C, speed control data is created for the section between point C and point B. The estimated arrival time of vehicle Y at point C and the estimated departure time of vehicle Y from point C are then calculated using this speed control data. For example, the estimated departure time of vehicle Y from point C may be set to 30 minutes after the estimated arrival time of vehicle Y at point C.

[0143] Next, in step S1021, if the transport plan creation unit 102a has performed process (1) (processing in step S1003) or process (2) (processing in step S1004), it calculates the scheduled departure date and time of vehicle X from point A, the scheduled departure date and time of vehicle X from point C, and the scheduled arrival date and time of vehicle X at point D.

[0144] Therefore, if the process is based on (1) (the process in step S1003), the scheduled arrival date and time of vehicle X at point B is calculated from the scheduled arrival date and time of vehicle X at point C, the scheduled departure date and time of vehicle X at point A is calculated from the calculated scheduled arrival date and time of vehicle X at point B, the scheduled departure date and time of vehicle X at point C is calculated from the scheduled arrival date and time of vehicle X at point C, and the scheduled arrival date and time of vehicle X at point D is calculated from the calculated scheduled departure date and time of vehicle X at point C.

[0145] Furthermore, if the process is based on (2) (the process in step S1004), the scheduled arrival date and time of vehicle X at point C is calculated from the scheduled arrival date and time of vehicle X at point B, the scheduled departure date and time of vehicle X at point C is calculated from the calculated scheduled arrival date and time of vehicle X at point C, the scheduled departure date and time of vehicle X at point A is calculated from the scheduled arrival date and time of vehicle X at point B, and the scheduled arrival date and time of vehicle X at point D is calculated from the calculated scheduled departure date and time of vehicle X at point C.

[0146] Furthermore, in step S1021, if the transport plan creation unit 102a performs process (3) (processing in step S1007) or process (4) (processing in step S1008), it calculates the departure date and time of vehicle Y from point D, the departure date and time of vehicle Y from point B, and the estimated arrival date and time of vehicle Y at point A.

[0147] Therefore, if the process is based on (3) (the process in step S1007), the scheduled arrival date and time of vehicle Y at point C is calculated from the scheduled arrival date and time of vehicle Y at point B, the scheduled departure date and time of vehicle Y at point D is calculated from the calculated scheduled arrival date and time of vehicle Y at point C, the scheduled departure date and time of vehicle Y at point B is calculated from the scheduled arrival date and time of vehicle Y at point B, and the scheduled arrival date and time of vehicle X at point A is calculated from the calculated scheduled departure date and time of vehicle Y at point B.

[0148] Furthermore, if the process is based on (4) (the process in step S1008), the scheduled arrival date and time of vehicle Y at point B is calculated from the scheduled arrival date and time of vehicle Y at point C, the scheduled departure date and time of vehicle Y at point B is calculated from the calculated scheduled arrival date and time of vehicle Y at point B, the scheduled departure date and time of vehicle Y at point D is calculated from the scheduled arrival date and time of vehicle Y at point C, and the scheduled arrival date and time of vehicle Y at point A is calculated from the calculated scheduled departure date and time of vehicle Y at point B.

[0149] If the arrival prediction process is performed in step S102, the transportation plan creation unit 102a determines in step S103 whether the parking spaces at point B and point C for vehicle Y are available for reservation. The determination of whether each parking space is available for reservation is made by checking the reservation status on the parking reservation website of each smart IC operator. If it is determined that the parking spaces at point B and point C for vehicle Y are available for reservation, the process proceeds to step S104. On the other hand, if it is determined that the parking spaces at point B and point C for vehicle Y are not available for reservation, the process proceeds to step S118.

[0150] If it is determined that the parking spaces at point B and point C for vehicle Y are available for reservation, in step S104, the transportation planning unit 102a reserves the parking spaces at point B and point C for vehicle Y. Here, the transportation planning unit 102a makes the reservations for each parking space from the parking reservation website of each smart IC operator. When reserving the parking space at point B, the unit reserves a time that takes into account the scheduled arrival date and time of vehicle Y at point B, the scheduled departure date and time of vehicle Y at point B, and any delays due to traffic congestion, including a buffer time (for example, the scheduled departure date and time of point B + 2 hours). Similarly, when reserving the parking space at point C, the unit reserves a time that takes into account the scheduled arrival date and time of vehicle Y at point C and the scheduled departure date and time of vehicle Y at point C.

[0151] On the other hand, if it is determined that the parking spaces at point B and point C for vehicle Y are unavailable for reservation, in step S118 the transportation plan creation unit 102a clears the setting of the scheduled arrival date and time for vehicle Y at point C and terminates this transportation plan creation process 1.

[0152] Next, in step S105, the transport planning unit 102a determines whether or not there is a vehicle X scheduled to go from point A to point D. If it determines that there is a vehicle X scheduled to go from point A to point D, the process proceeds to step S106. On the other hand, if it determines that there is no vehicle X scheduled to go from point A to point D, the process proceeds to step S111.

[0153] Next, in step S106, the transportation planning unit 102a sets the scheduled arrival date and time of vehicle X at point B, which is scheduled to travel from point A to point D. Here, the transportation planning unit 102a sets the scheduled arrival date and time of vehicle X at point B in accordance with the scheduled arrival date and time of vehicle Y at point B.

[0154] Next, in step S107, the transportation plan creation unit 102a executes arrival prediction processing. The arrival prediction processing is as described above.

[0155] Next, in step S108, the transportation planning unit 102a determines whether the parking spaces at point B and point C for vehicle X are available for reservation. The determination of whether each parking space is available for reservation is made by checking the reservation status on the parking reservation website of each smart IC operating company. If it is determined that the parking spaces at point B and point C for vehicle X are available for reservation, the process proceeds to step S109. On the other hand, if it is determined that the parking spaces at point B and point C for vehicle X are not available for reservation, the process proceeds to step S110.

[0156] If it is determined that the parking spaces at point B and point C for vehicle X are available for reservation, in step S109, the transportation planning unit 102a reserves the parking spaces at point B and point C for vehicle X. Here, the transportation planning unit 102a makes the reservations for each parking space from the parking reservation website of each smart IC operator. When reserving the parking space at point B, it reserves a time that takes into account the scheduled arrival date and time of vehicle X at point B and the scheduled departure date and time of vehicle X at point B. When reserving the parking space at point C, it reserves a time that takes into account the scheduled arrival date and time of vehicle X at point C and the scheduled departure date and time of vehicle X at point C, as well as a buffer time (for example, the scheduled departure date and time of point C + 2 hours) that may be required due to traffic congestion.

[0157] On the other hand, if it is determined that the parking spaces at point B and point C for vehicle X are unavailable for reservation, in step S110, the transport planning unit 102a clears the setting of the scheduled arrival date and time for vehicle X at point B.

[0158] Next, in step S111, the transport plan creation unit 102a determines whether there is a vehicle X scheduled to arrive at point C within ±1 hour of the scheduled arrival date and time of vehicle Y. If it determines that there is a vehicle X scheduled to arrive at point C within ±1 hour of the scheduled arrival date and time of vehicle Y, the process proceeds to step S112. On the other hand, if it determines that there is no vehicle X scheduled to arrive at point C within ±1 hour of the scheduled arrival date and time of vehicle Y, the process proceeds to step S115. Note that the process in step S111 may be omitted, and the process from step S112 onwards may be proceeded to.

[0159] If it is determined that there is a vehicle X scheduled to arrive at point C within ±1 hour of the scheduled arrival date and time of vehicle Y, in step S112 the transport planning unit 102a confirms the vehicle number of the scheduled arriving vehicle X and its parking position at point C.

[0160] Next, in step S113, the transport planning unit 102a designates a second driver DD who will drive vehicle Y from point D to point C, and then drive vehicle X back from point C to point D.

[0161] Next, in step S114, the transport planning unit 102a designates a first driver DA who will drive vehicle X from point A to point B.

[0162] If it is determined that there is no vehicle X scheduled to arrive at point C within ±1 hour of the scheduled arrival date and time of vehicle Y, in step S115 the transport planning unit 102a designates a second driver DD to drive vehicle Y from point D to point C.

[0163] Next, in step S116, the transport plan creation unit 102a creates a travel plan and a driving plan, and registers the created travel plan and driving plan in the transport plan DB 101c.

[0164] Next, in step S117, the transport plan creation unit 102a transmits the travel plan registered in the transport plan DB 101c to the onboard systems 200 of vehicle X and vehicle Y, which are the targets of this travel plan. The transport plan creation unit 102a also transmits the driving plan registered in the transport plan DB 101c to the driver terminal 300 held by the first driver DA and the driver terminal 300 held by the second driver DD, which are the targets of this driving plan. After executing the process in step S117, the transport plan creation process 1 is terminated. The onboard systems 200 of vehicle X and vehicle Y, which have received the travel plan information, store the travel plan information in their respective travel plan storage units 204. The travel control unit 209d then drives vehicle X (vehicle Y) according to the travel plan information stored in the travel plan storage unit 204. The driver terminal 300, which has received the driving plan information, stores the received driving plan information in the driving plan storage unit 303. Then, according to the driving plan information stored in the driving plan memory unit 303, the first driver DA (second driver DD) drives vehicle X (vehicle Y).

[0165] (Transportation plan creation process 2) Next, we will explain the transportation plan creation process 2 using Figure 7.

[0166] First, in step S201, the transportation planning unit 102a selects the scheduled date and time of arrival of vehicle X at point C.

[0167] Next, in step S202, the transportation plan creation unit 102a executes arrival prediction processing. The arrival prediction processing is as described above.

[0168] If the arrival prediction process is performed in step S202, the transportation plan creation unit 102a determines in step S203 whether the parking space at point B and the parking space at point C for vehicle X are available for reservation. The determination of whether each parking space is available for reservation is made by checking the reservation status on the parking reservation website of each smart IC operator. If it is determined that the parking space at point B and the parking space at point C for vehicle X are available for reservation, the process proceeds to step S204. On the other hand, if it is determined that the parking space at point B and the parking space at point C for vehicle X are not available for reservation, the process proceeds to step S218.

[0169] If it is determined that the parking spaces at point B and point C for vehicle X are available for reservation, in step S204, the transportation planning unit 102a reserves the parking spaces at point B and point C for vehicle X. Here, the transportation planning unit 102a makes the reservations for each parking space from the parking reservation website of each smart IC operator. When reserving the parking space at point B, it reserves a time that takes into account the scheduled arrival date and time of vehicle X at point B and the scheduled departure date and time of vehicle X at point B. When reserving the parking space at point C, it reserves a time that takes into account the scheduled arrival date and time of vehicle X at point C and the scheduled departure date and time of vehicle X at point C, as well as a buffer time (for example, the scheduled departure date and time of point C + 2 hours) that may be required due to traffic congestion.

[0170] On the other hand, if it is determined that the parking spaces at point B and point C for vehicle X are unavailable for reservation, in step S218 the transportation plan creation unit 102a clears the setting of the scheduled arrival date and time for vehicle X at point C and terminates this transportation plan creation process 1.

[0171] Next, in step S205, the transport planning unit 102a determines whether or not there is a vehicle Y scheduled to go from point D to point A. If it determines that there is a vehicle Y scheduled to go from point D to point A, the process proceeds to step S206. On the other hand, if it determines that there is no vehicle Y scheduled to go from point D to point A, the process proceeds to step S211.

[0172] Next, in step S206, the transportation planning unit 102a sets the estimated arrival date and time of vehicle Y, which is scheduled to travel from point D to point A, at point C. Here, the transportation planning unit 102a sets the estimated arrival date and time of vehicle Y at point C in accordance with the estimated arrival date and time of vehicle X at point C.

[0173] Next, in step S207, the transportation plan creation unit 102a executes arrival prediction processing. The arrival prediction processing is as described above.

[0174] Next, in step S208, the transportation plan creation unit 102a determines whether the parking spaces at point B and point C for vehicle Y are available for reservation. The determination of whether each parking space is available for reservation is made by checking the reservation status on the parking reservation website of each smart IC operator. If it is determined that the parking spaces at point B and point C for vehicle Y are available for reservation, the process proceeds to step S209. On the other hand, if it is determined that the parking spaces at point B and point C for vehicle Y are not available for reservation, the process proceeds to step S210.

[0175] If it is determined that the parking spaces at point B and point C for vehicle Y are available for reservation, in step S209 the transportation planning unit 102a reserves the parking spaces at point B and point C for vehicle Y. Here, the transportation planning unit 102a makes the reservations for each parking space from the parking reservation website of each smart IC operator. When reserving the parking space at point B, the unit reserves a time that takes into account the scheduled arrival date and time of vehicle Y at point B, the scheduled departure date and time of vehicle Y at point B, and any delays due to traffic congestion, including a buffer time (for example, the scheduled departure date and time of point B + 2 hours). Similarly, when reserving the parking space at point C, the unit reserves a time that takes into account the scheduled arrival date and time of vehicle Y at point C and the scheduled departure date and time of vehicle Y at point C.

[0176] On the other hand, if it is determined that the parking spaces at point B and point C for vehicle Y are unavailable for reservation, in step S210 the transportation plan creation unit 102a clears the setting of the scheduled arrival date and time for vehicle Y at point C.

[0177] Next, in step S211, the transport plan creation unit 102a determines whether there is a vehicle Y scheduled to arrive at point B within ±1 hour of the scheduled arrival date and time of vehicle X. If it determines that there is a vehicle Y scheduled to arrive at point B within ±1 hour of the scheduled arrival date and time of vehicle X, the process proceeds to step S212. On the other hand, if it determines that there is no vehicle Y scheduled to arrive at point B within ±1 hour of the scheduled arrival date and time of vehicle X, the process proceeds to step S215. Note that the process in step S211 may be omitted, and the process from step S212 onwards may be proceeded to.

[0178] If it is determined that there is a vehicle Y scheduled to arrive at point B within ±1 hour of the scheduled arrival date and time of vehicle X, in step S212 the transport planning unit 102a confirms the vehicle number of the scheduled vehicle Y and its parking position at point B.

[0179] Next, in step S213, the transport planning unit 102a designates driver A DA to drive vehicle X from point A to point B, and then drive vehicle Y back from point B to point A.

[0180] Next, in step S214, the transport planning unit 102a designates a second driver DD to drive vehicle Y from point D to point C.

[0181] If it is determined that there is no vehicle Y scheduled to arrive at point B within ±1 hour of the scheduled arrival date and time of vehicle X, in step S215 the transport planning unit 102a designates a first driver DA to drive vehicle X from point A to point B.

[0182] Next, in step S216, the transport plan creation unit 102a creates travel plan information and driving plan information, and registers the created travel plan information and driving plan information in the transport plan DB 101c.

[0183] Next, in step S217, the transport plan creation unit 102a transmits the travel plan information registered in the transport plan DB 101c to the onboard systems 200 of vehicle X and vehicle Y, which are the targets of this travel plan. The transport plan creation unit 102a also transmits the driving plan information registered in the transport plan DB 101c to the driver terminal 300 held by the first driver DA and the driver terminal 300 held by the second driver DD, which are the targets of this driving plan. After executing the process in step S217, the transport plan creation process 2 is terminated. The onboard systems 200 of vehicle X and vehicle Y, which received the travel plan information, store the travel plan information in their respective travel plan storage units 204. The travel control unit 209d then drives vehicle X (vehicle Y) according to the travel plan information stored in the travel plan storage unit 204. The driver terminal 300, which received the driving plan information, stores the received driving plan information in the driving plan storage unit 303. Then, according to the driving plan information stored in the driving plan memory unit 303, the first driver DA (second driver DD) drives vehicle X (vehicle Y).

[0184] (Transportation plan creation process 3) Next, we will explain the transportation plan creation process 3 using Figure 9.

[0185] First, in step S701, the transport planning unit 102a confirms the scheduled arrival date and time of the first driver DA at point B. Here, the transport planning unit 102a confirms the driving plan information of the first driver DA registered in the transport plan DB 101c. Note that the scheduled arrival date and time of the first driver DA at point B is the same as the arrival date and time of vehicle X at point B.

[0186] Next, in step S702, the transport plan creation unit 102a confirms the scheduled arrival date and time of the second driver DD at point C. Here, the transport plan creation unit 102a confirms the driving plan information of the second driver DD registered in the transport plan DB 101c. The scheduled arrival date and time of the second driver DD at point C is the same as the arrival date and time of vehicle Y at point C.

[0187] Next, in step S703, the transport planning unit 102a determines whether vehicle X can arrive at point C at the scheduled time by driving within the legal speed limit. Here, the transport planning unit 102a calculates the difference in time between the confirmed arrival time of the first driver DA at point B and the arrival time of the second driver DD at point C. Then, the transport planning unit 102a determines whether vehicle X can travel from point B to point C at the legal speed limit within the calculated difference in time and arrive at point C at the scheduled time. If it is determined that vehicle X can arrive at point C at the scheduled time by driving within the legal speed limit, the process proceeds to step S704. On the other hand, if it is determined that vehicle X cannot arrive at point C at the scheduled time by driving within the legal speed limit (it will not arrive on time unless it drives at a speed exceeding the speed limit), the transport planning process 3 is terminated.

[0188] Next, in step S704, the transport planning unit 102a determines whether vehicle Y can arrive at point B at the scheduled time by driving within the legal speed limit. Here, the transport planning unit 102a calculates the difference in time between the confirmed arrival time of the second driver DD at point C and the arrival time of the first driver DA at point B. Then, the transport planning unit 102a determines whether vehicle Y can travel from point C to point B at the legal speed limit within the calculated difference in time and arrive at point B at the scheduled time. If it is determined that vehicle Y can arrive at point B at the scheduled time by driving within the legal speed limit, the process proceeds to step S705. On the other hand, if it is determined that vehicle Y cannot arrive at point B at the scheduled time by driving within the legal speed limit (it would be impossible to arrive on time unless it travels at a speed exceeding the speed limit), the transport planning process 3 is terminated.

[0189] Next, in step S705, the transportation plan creation unit 102a determines whether the parking spaces at point B and point C for vehicles X and Y are available for reservation. The determination of whether each parking space is available for reservation is made by checking the reservation status on the parking reservation website of each smart IC operator. If it is determined that the parking spaces at point B and point C for vehicles X and Y are available for reservation, the process proceeds to step S706. On the other hand, if it is determined that the parking spaces at point B and point C for both or either vehicles X and Y are unavailable for reservation, the transportation plan creation process is terminated.

[0190] If it is determined that parking spaces at point B and point C for vehicles X and Y are available for reservation, in step S706, the transportation planning unit 102a reserves the parking spaces at point B and point C for vehicles X and Y. Here, the transportation planning unit 102a makes the reservations for each parking space from the parking reservation site of each smart IC operator. When reserving the parking space at point B for vehicle X, it reserves a time that takes into account the scheduled arrival date and time of vehicle X at point B and the scheduled departure date and time of vehicle X at point B. When reserving the parking space at point B for vehicle Y, it reserves a time that takes into account the scheduled arrival date and time of vehicle Y at point B, the scheduled departure date and time of vehicle Y at point B, and any delays in vehicle Y's arrival at point B due to congestion, and includes a buffer time (for example, scheduled departure date and time at point B + 2 hours). If there is a waiting time at point B for vehicle Y (i.e., waiting for more than the buffer time relative to the second driver DD's arrival date and time at point C), it reserves a time that includes that waiting time.

[0191] Furthermore, when reserving a parking space for vehicle Y at point C, reserve a time that takes into account the estimated arrival and departure times of vehicle Y at point C. Similarly, when reserving a parking space for vehicle X at point C, reserve a time that includes a buffer (for example, the estimated departure time from point C + 2 hours) taking into account the estimated arrival and departure times of vehicle X at point C, as well as the possibility of delays due to traffic congestion. If vehicle X has to wait at point C (i.e., waiting for more than the buffer time relative to the arrival time of the first driver DA at point B), reserve a time that accounts for that waiting time.

[0192] Next, in step S707, the transportation planning unit 102a calculates the average running speed of vehicle X for each section. Here, the transportation planning unit 102a calculates the average speed for each section between point B and point C (section B-1a, section B-2a, section B-3a, section B-4a, section C).

[0193] Next, in step S708, the transport planning unit 102a sets the departure date and time of vehicle X from point B and the arrival date and time of vehicle X at point C, based on the average speed of each section between point B and point C.

[0194] Next, in step S709, the transport planning unit 102a calculates the average running speed of vehicle Y for each section. Here, the transport planning unit 102a calculates the average speed for each section between point C and point B (section B-4b, section B-3b, section B-2b, section B-1b, section B).

[0195] Next, in step S710, the transport planning unit 102a sets the departure date and time of vehicle Y from point C and the arrival date and time of vehicle Y at point B, based on the average speed of each section between point C and point B.

[0196] Next, in step S711, the transport plan creation unit 102a creates travel plan information and registers the created travel plan information in the transport plan DB 101c.

[0197] Next, in step S217, the transport plan creation unit 102a transmits the travel plan information registered in the transport plan DB 101c to the onboard systems 200 of vehicle X and vehicle Y, which are the targets of this travel plan. The transport plan creation unit 102a also transmits the driving plan information registered in the transport plan DB 101c to the driver terminal 300 held by the first driver DA and the driver terminal 300 held by the second driver DD, which are the targets of this driving plan. After executing the process in step S712, the transport plan creation process 2 is terminated. The onboard systems 200 of vehicle X and vehicle Y, which have received the travel plan information, store the travel plan information in their respective travel plan storage units 204. Then, the driving control unit 209d drives vehicle X (vehicle Y) according to the travel plan information stored in the travel plan storage unit 204.

[0198] (Additional notes) The embodiments disclosed herein include the following configurations.

[0199] (Note 1) A transport management device for managing a transport system that transports goods, etc. from point A to point D and from point D to point A by operating a vehicle between point A and point B as a first manned driving section, between point B and point C as an unmanned automatic driving section, and between point C and point D as a second manned driving section, wherein the device predicts the traffic conditions in the unmanned automatic driving section, creates a driving plan for a first vehicle going from point B to point C and a driving plan for a second vehicle going from point C to point B, creates a driving plan for a first driver operating in the first manned driving section based on the driving plans for the first and second vehicles, and creates a driving plan for a second driver operating in the second manned driving section based on the driving plans for the first and second vehicles.

[0200] (Note 2) The transportation management device described in Note 1, which, in creating a travel plan for the first vehicle, determines the scheduled arrival time of the first vehicle at point B based on the scheduled arrival time of the first vehicle at point C.

[0201] (Note 3) A transport management device as described in Note 1 or Note 2, which, in creating a travel plan for the second vehicle, determines the scheduled arrival time of the second vehicle at point C based on the scheduled arrival time of the second vehicle at point B.

[0202] (Note 4) A transport management device as described in any one of Notes 1 to 3, which, in creating a travel plan for the first vehicle, determines the scheduled arrival time of the first vehicle at point B based on the scheduled arrival time of the second vehicle at point B.

[0203] (Note 5) A transport management device as described in any one of Notes 1 to 4, which, in creating a travel plan for the second vehicle, determines the scheduled arrival time of the second vehicle at point C based on the scheduled arrival time of the first vehicle at point C.

[0204] (Note 6) A transport management device as described in any one of Notes 1 to 5, which takes into account the availability of parking spaces for the second vehicle at points B and C when creating a travel plan for the second vehicle.

[0205] (Note 7) A transport management device according to any one of Notes 1 to 6, which, in creating a travel plan for the second vehicle, determines the travel speed of the second vehicle in the unmanned automatic travel section based on the estimated arrival time of the second vehicle at point B.

[0206] (Appendix 8) A transportation management method for managing a transportation system that transports goods, etc. from point A to point D and from point D to point A by operating a vehicle between point A and point B as a first manned driving section, between point B and point C as an unmanned automatic driving section, and between point C and point D as a second manned driving section, comprising the steps of: predicting the traffic conditions of the unmanned automatic driving section and creating a driving plan for a first vehicle going from point B to point C and a driving plan for a second vehicle going from point C to point B; creating a driving plan for a first driver operating in the first manned driving section based on the driving plan for the first vehicle and the driving plan for the second vehicle; and creating a driving plan for a second driver operating in the second manned driving section based on the driving plan for the first vehicle and the driving plan for the second vehicle. [Industrial applicability]

[0207] The transportation management device, transportation management method, and transportation system of this disclosure provide a technology for creating a suitable transportation plan in a transportation system that transports goods from point A to point D by having a vehicle travel between point A and point B as a first manned travel section, between point B and point C as an unmanned automatic travel section, and between point C and point D as a second manned travel section. [Explanation of symbols]

[0208] 1 Mode of transportation 10 Transportation Management Systems 100 Transport management equipment 101 Storage section 101a Map Information Database 101b Traffic information DB 101c Transportation Planning Database 102 Control Unit 102a Transportation Planning Department 102b Transportation Plan Change Department 102c Vehicle Condition Management Department 102d Cargo Area Status Management Department 103 Communication Control I / F Section 104 Input / Output Interface Section 105 Operation section 106 Display section 200 In-vehicle systems 201 GPS receiver 202 Navigation Section 203 Map Information Database 204 Driving plan memory unit 205 External Condition Detection Unit 206 Cargo area condition detection unit 207 Locking mechanism 208 Drive Control Unit 209 Operation Control Unit 210 Communication Control I / F Section 211 Input / Output Interface Section 212 Operation section 213 Audio Input / Output Section 214 Display section 300 Driver terminals 301 GPS receiver 302 Key information storage unit 303 Driving plan memory unit 304 Terminal Control Unit 305 Communication Control I / F Section 306 Input / Output Interface Section 307 Operation section 308 Audio Input / Output Section 309 Display section 400 Networks

Claims

1. A step of obtaining a first time when a first vehicle, which is traveling by manned vehicle from a first departure point to a transfer point, arrives at the transfer point; A step of obtaining a second time when a second vehicle, which is traveling by autonomous driving from a second departure point to the transfer point, arrives at the transfer point; The steps include designating the driver who will operate the first vehicle to the transfer point and the driver who will operate the second vehicle from the transfer point, according to the first time and the second time, A management method performed by a transport management device, including the device itself.

2. Each of the above steps is performed by the transportation management device communicating with the in-vehicle systems of the first and second vehicles and the driver terminals via a network. The management method described in claim 1.

3. The aforementioned step includes transmitting driving plan information, including the result of the aforementioned designation, to the driver terminal. The management method according to feature 2.

4. The process includes a step of determining whether the difference between the first time and the second time is within a predetermined time range, The aforementioned step, if the difference is within the predetermined time range, designates the driver who drives the first vehicle to the transfer point as the driver who drives the second vehicle from the transfer point. The management method according to feature 1.

5. If the difference is outside the range of the predetermined time, the driver shall not be designated as the driver of the second vehicle. The management method according to feature 4.

6. The step of obtaining the first time and / or the second time includes obtaining the estimated arrival date and time calculated by performing an arrival prediction process based on traffic information. The management method according to feature 1.

7. The aforementioned arrival prediction process divides the route of the automated driving into multiple sections, identifies the time of passage for each section, and refers to traffic congestion forecast information corresponding to that time of passage. The management method described in feature 6.

8. The further step includes transmitting unlock key information and / or lock key information for the second vehicle to a driver terminal held by the designated driver, The management method according to feature 1.

9. The second vehicle is unlocked when the unlock key information transmitted from the driver's terminal matches the unlock key information registered on the vehicle side. The management method according to feature 8.

10. The second vehicle is locked when the driver terminal is a predetermined distance away from the second vehicle. The management method according to feature 9.

11. A step of obtaining a first time when a first vehicle, which is traveling by manned vehicle from a first departure point to a transfer point, arrives at the transfer point; A step of obtaining a second time when a second vehicle, which is traveling by autonomous driving from a second departure point to the transfer point, arrives at the transfer point; The steps include designating the driver who will operate the first vehicle to the transfer point and the driver who will operate the second vehicle from the transfer point, according to the first time and the second time, A transport management device that has the function to perform the following actions.

12. Each of the above steps is performed by the transportation management device communicating with the in-vehicle systems of the first and second vehicles and the driver terminals via a network. The transport management device according to claim 11.

13. The aforementioned step includes transmitting driving plan information, including the result of the aforementioned designation, to the driver terminal. The transport management device according to claim 12.

14. The process includes a step of determining whether the difference between the first time and the second time is within a predetermined time range, The aforementioned step, if the difference is within the predetermined time range, designates the driver who drives the first vehicle to the transfer point as the driver who drives the second vehicle from the transfer point. The transport management device according to claim 11.

15. If the difference is outside the range of the predetermined time, the driver shall not be designated as the driver of the second vehicle. The transport management device according to claim 14.

16. The step of obtaining the first time and / or the second time includes obtaining the estimated arrival date and time calculated by performing an arrival prediction process based on traffic information. The transport management device according to claim 11.

17. The aforementioned arrival prediction process divides the route of the automated driving into multiple sections, identifies the time of passage for each section, and refers to traffic congestion forecast information corresponding to that time of passage. The transport management device according to claim 16.

18. The further step includes transmitting unlock key information and / or lock key information for the second vehicle to a driver terminal held by the designated driver, The transport management device according to claim 11.

19. The second vehicle is unlocked when the unlock key information transmitted from the driver's terminal matches the unlock key information registered on the vehicle side. The transport management device according to claim 18.

20. The second vehicle is locked when the driver terminal is a predetermined distance away from the second vehicle. The transport management device according to claim 19.

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