Traffic volume measurement system, electric vehicle measurement device, and electric vehicle measurement method

Abstract

The objective is to provide a traffic volume measurement system that can output the number of electric vehicles. [Solution] The traffic volume measurement system of the embodiment includes an acquisition unit that acquires the number of vehicles traveling on the road and vehicle type information including the type of power source; a determination unit that determines whether or not a vehicle is an electric vehicle using the acquired number of vehicles and vehicle type information; a calculation unit that calculates the number of electric vehicles determined for each predetermined section of the road; and an output control unit that controls the output to output the number of electric vehicles for each predetermined section of the road.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a traffic volume measurement system, an electric vehicle measurement device, and an electric vehicle measurement method.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, a system capable of displaying the traffic volume of automobiles and traffic jam information in a predetermined section such as a highway has been known.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, in the conventional system, although the traffic volume of the entire vehicles passing through by the traffic control system is monitored and measured, the traffic volume measurement for each type of power (power train) of the running automobiles is not performed (hereinafter, a vehicle running on fossil fuels such as gasoline and light oil is referred to as a "gasoline vehicle", and on the contrary, electric vehicles, plug-in hybrid cars, hybrid cars, fuel cell vehicles, etc., automobiles using electricity for driving force are collectively referred to as "electric vehicles").

[0005] However, considering the response in the case of a fire due to an accident or the like, the equipment required for extinguishing a fire of a gasoline vehicle or the like is different from the equipment for dealing with a fire of an electric vehicle. Here, since the traffic volume of the entire vehicles and the traffic volume of electric vehicles do not necessarily proportion, in order for the system to introduce equipment for fire protection measures in a tunnel or the like, it is necessary to grasp the number of running gasoline vehicles and electric vehicles and to have equipment corresponding to the running ratio / number.

[0006] The problem that this invention aims to solve is to provide a traffic volume measurement system, an electric vehicle measurement device, and an electric vehicle measurement method that can determine whether a vehicle is an electric vehicle and output the number of electric vehicles. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The traffic volume measurement system of this embodiment includes an acquisition unit that acquires the number of vehicles traveling on the road and vehicle type information including the type of power source; a determination unit that determines whether or not a vehicle is an electric vehicle using the acquired number of vehicles and vehicle type information; a calculation unit that calculates the number of electric vehicles determined for each predetermined section of the road; and an output control unit that controls the output to display the number of electric vehicles for each predetermined section of the road. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] Figure 1 shows the overall configuration of the road control system according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 2] Figure 2 shows the overall configuration of the traffic volume measurement system according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a flowchart showing the operation of the electric vehicle measuring device of Embodiment 1. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a diagram showing an example of section information and measurement equipment information in Embodiment 1. [Figure 5] Figure 5 shows an example 1 of the display of the number of electric vehicles by the electric vehicle measuring device of Embodiment 1. [Figure 6] Figure 6 shows an example 2 of the display of the number of electric vehicles by the electric vehicle measuring device of Embodiment 1. [Figure 7] Figure 7 shows an example 3 of the display of the number of electric vehicles by the electric vehicle measurement device of Embodiment 1. [Figure 8] Figure 8 shows the section information for example 4 of the display of the number of electric vehicles by the electric vehicle measurement device of Embodiment 1. [Figure 9] Figure 9 shows an example 4 of the display of the number of electric vehicles by the electric vehicle measuring device of Embodiment 1. [Figure 10]Figure 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of the installation of charging equipment in the facility control system of Embodiment 1. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of the installation of fire extinguishing equipment in the facility control system of Embodiment 1. [Figure 12] Figure 12 shows the overall configuration of the traffic volume measurement system of Embodiment 2. [Figure 13] Figure 13 shows an example of an emblem determined by the traffic volume measurement device of Embodiment 2. [Figure 14] Figure 14 shows an example of an electric vehicle emblem determined by the traffic volume measurement device of Embodiment 2. [Figure 15] Figure 15 shows an example of a hybrid vehicle emblem determined by the traffic volume measurement device of Embodiment 2. [Figure 16] Figure 16 is a flowchart showing the operation of the traffic volume measurement device of Embodiment 2. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] The following describes the traffic volume measurement system 10, the electric vehicle measurement device 12, and the electric vehicle measurement method of the embodiment using the attached drawings. In this embodiment, the case of a highway will be used as an example of the road.

[0010] <Embodiment 1> The following describes each embodiment of the traffic volume measurement system 10. Embodiment 1 is an embodiment that measures the number of electric vehicles by acquiring vehicle type information 111 related to the type of vehicle from moving vehicles.

[0011] Figure 1 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of the road control system 1 of Embodiment 1. As shown in Figure 1, the road control system 1 comprises a traffic control system 2, a facility control system 3, and an output unit 4.

[0012] The traffic control system 2 is a system for managing and controlling vehicle traffic on roads. For example, the traffic control system 2 is realized by a computer device such as an information exchange server or a central processing unit.

[0013] The traffic control system 2 includes a traffic volume measurement system 10, weather information 20, a traffic jam prediction model 21, and an accident prediction model 22. Furthermore, a traffic counter 14 provided near the road lanes and a vehicle-road communication device 15 for obtaining vehicle type information 111 from passing vehicles by means of a vehicle-road communication method (DSRC) used in ETC 2.0 or the like are provided.

[0014] The traffic volume measurement system 10 is a system that measures the speed, number, occupancy, etc. of traveling vehicles as the traffic volume for each predetermined section using a traffic counter 14 provided near the driving lane. For example, the traffic volume measurement system 10 is realized by a computer device such as an information exchange server or a central processing unit. Details will be described later.

[0015] In the present embodiment, the traffic volume measurement system 10 also distinguishes and detects whether the traveling vehicle is a vehicle that runs only on fossil fuels such as gasoline or light oil or an electric vehicle that uses electricity as power as information on the type of power of the traveling vehicle. Here, an electric vehicle is, for example, a vehicle that uses at least a part of a battery or the like mounted on the vehicle for running. Electric vehicles include, for example, electric vehicles, hybrid cars, plug-in hybrid cars, and fuel cell vehicles.

[0016] The weather information 20 is information regarding the weather (weather, temperature, road surface temperature, wind direction, wind speed, rainfall, etc.). The weather information 20 is information received from a predetermined observation site or a weather information center.

[0017] The traffic jam prediction model 21 is a model for predicting future traffic jams on roads by machine learning using information such as past traffic information on roads (traffic volume [vehicles / h], average speed [km / h], vehicle density [vehicles / km], occupancy [%], etc.) and information including accident information (traffic situation data).

[0018] Accident prediction model 22 is a model for predicting future road accidents using machine learning based on traffic condition data and past accident history data.

[0019] Facility control system 3 is a system that monitors and controls road facilities. Facility control system 3 is implemented by computer devices such as an information exchange server and a central processing unit.

[0020] Furthermore, the facilities monitored and controlled by Facility Control System 3 include a wide range of equipment, such as power supply equipment, lighting facilities, surveillance cameras (CCTV), tunnel lighting facilities, ventilation systems, fire detection devices, rest facilities (SA / PA, etc.), servers and roadside equipment for the Electronic Toll Collection System (ETC), and more.

[0021] Furthermore, the facility control system 3 stores information related to the equipment, such as the inspection history and inspection results, and this information can be used to consider equipment upgrades or equipment introductions.

[0022] Output unit 4 is a device that displays information. Output unit 4 is, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD), an electro-luminescence (OLED) display, etc. Output unit 4 displays information sent from the traffic control system 2 and the facility control system 3. Output unit 4 is independent for the traffic control system 2 and the facility control system 3. Alternatively, output unit 4 may be common to both the traffic control system 2 and the facility control system 3.

[0023] Figure 2 shows the overall configuration of the traffic volume measurement system 10 of Embodiment 1. As shown in Figure 2, the traffic volume measurement system 10 comprises a traffic volume measurement device 11 and an electric vehicle measurement device 12. The electric vehicle measurement device 12 acquires section information 13 from an external source.

[0024] The traffic volume measurement device 11 comprises a traffic counter 14, a vehicle-to-infrastructure communication device 15, a storage unit 1100, and a determination unit 115. The traffic volume measurement device 11 is, for example, a measurement device for measuring the number of electric vehicles.

[0025] Traffic volume measuring devices 11 are installed, for example, at predetermined sections of highways, etc. Traffic volume measuring devices 11 may also be installed, for example, at the entrance and exit of tunnels to measure the number of electric vehicles inside the tunnel. Multiple traffic volume measuring devices 11 are installed.

[0026] The traffic counter 14 is installed, for example, near the road lanes. The traffic counter 14 acquires vehicle count information 110 regarding the number of vehicles traveling on the road.

[0027] The vehicle count information 110 is, for example, the number of vehicles measured at a specific point or section by multiple measuring devices. The vehicle count information 110 may also be the traffic volume of vehicles, calculated by adding up the number of vehicles measured within a specific time period.

[0028] The vehicle-to-infrastructure communication device 15 is a device that acquires vehicle type information 111 by communicating with a moving vehicle, for example, through vehicle-to-infrastructure communication. The vehicle-to-infrastructure communication device 15 is, for example, a vehicle-to-infrastructure communication (DSRC) used in ETC.

[0029] Vehicle type information 111 is, for example, information about vehicle types measured at a specific point or section by multiple measuring devices. Vehicle type information 111 may also be, for example, vehicle type information (at least whether it is an electric vehicle or not) and driving location information sent from the vehicle. Vehicle type information 111 may be, for example, information about vehicle types sent from ETC. Vehicle type information 111 includes vehicle types related to tolls, such as extra-large vehicles, large vehicles, and regular vehicles, as well as information on classifications by power source, such as gasoline vehicles and electric vehicles.

[0030] The storage unit 1100 includes measurement equipment information 112. The storage unit 1100 acquires the number of units information 110 and the vehicle type information 111. The storage unit 1100 may also be an acquisition unit.

[0031] Measurement equipment information 112 is information about measurement equipment installed in each section for the purpose of acquiring vehicle information.

[0032] The determination unit 115 uses the number of vehicles information 110 and the vehicle type information 111 to determine whether or not it is an electric vehicle. The determination unit 115 sends information about the electric vehicle to the electric vehicle measuring device 12.

[0033] Information regarding electric vehicles may include, as an example, information determined to be electric vehicles using the number of vehicles information 110 and vehicle type information 111. It may also include measurement equipment information 112.

[0034] Section information 13 is information about roads such as general roads and expressways. Section information 13 is information about a pre-defined section between the start and end points of a road. Section information 13 also includes information that distinguishes between the uphill and downhill sections. An interchange may be considered as one section. Alternatively, each expressway route may be considered as one section.

[0035] The electric vehicle measuring device 12 comprises a calculation unit 122 and an output control unit 124.

[0036] The calculation unit 122 obtains information from the traffic volume measuring device 11, which determines whether or not a vehicle is an electric vehicle, using the number of vehicles information 110 and the vehicle type information 111. The calculation unit 122 calculates the number of electric vehicles determined for each predetermined section of the road.

[0037] Furthermore, the calculation unit 122 sets the section for which the number of electric vehicles will be calculated, for example, using the acquired measurement equipment information 112 and section information 13. The calculation unit 122 divides the expressway into multiple sections, for example. The calculation unit 122 may set a section by treating one expressway route as one section. Alternatively, the calculation unit 122 may set sections by distinguishing between one direction of travel and the opposite direction of travel for each section.

[0038] Furthermore, the calculation unit 122 sets the measuring equipment to be used for measurement for each section. For example, the calculation unit 122 sets the measuring equipment to be used when there are multiple measuring devices in one section. Alternatively, the calculation unit 122 may have sections pre-set in the section information 13 and may select the measuring equipment to be used for measurement for each set section without having to set the sections.

[0039] The calculation unit 122 calculates the number of electric vehicles in each predetermined section of the road, for example, using the information obtained to determine whether or not a vehicle is an electric vehicle. Specifically, the calculation unit 122 calculates the number of electric vehicles in each section based on the sections set using at least the section information 13 and the measurement equipment set for each section from the measurement equipment information 112. Then, the calculation unit 122 calculates the number of electric vehicles by adding the number of electric vehicles for a predetermined time.

[0040] The output control unit 124 controls the output unit 4 to output, for example, the number of electric vehicles for each predetermined section of the road. The output control unit 124 can set the display format to be output. For example, the display format can be set by the user.

[0041] Figure 3 is a flowchart showing the operation of the electric vehicle measurement device 12 of Embodiment 1. As shown in Figure 3, the calculation unit 122 of the electric vehicle measurement device 12 acquires information about electric vehicles that have been determined to be electric vehicles at predetermined intervals (step S1). For example, the calculation unit 122 acquires vehicle count information 110, vehicle type information 111, and measurement equipment information 112 from the traffic volume measurement device 11. The calculation unit 122 also acquires section information 13. The predetermined intervals are, for example, 5-second intervals, 1-minute intervals, etc.

[0042] The calculation unit 122 of the electric vehicle measuring device 12 uses the acquired measuring equipment information 112 to select the measuring equipment (measuring instrument) to be used to display the number of electric vehicles (step S2). Alternatively, the calculation unit 122 may determine which measuring equipment to use.

[0043] The calculation unit 122 of the electric vehicle measurement device 12 uses the acquired section information 13 to set the section for which the number of electric vehicles will be displayed (step S3). The calculation unit 122 may also set the section for which the display will be performed. The calculation unit 122 may also divide the road into predetermined sections.

[0044] The calculation unit 122 of the electric vehicle measurement device 12 sets the time for measuring the number of electric vehicles in each section using the measurement equipment selected for each section and the set number of sections (step S4). Here, the measurement time can be set to, for example, 5-minute intervals or 10-minute intervals.

[0045] The calculation unit 122 of the electric vehicle measurement device 12 calculates the number of electric vehicles for each set time interval (step S5).

[0046] The output unit 4 outputs the number of electric vehicles for each section in a predetermined display format (step S6). The output control unit 124 of the electric vehicle measuring device 12 controls the output unit 4 to display the number of electric vehicles for each section in a predetermined display format. Specifically, the output control unit 124 can change the display to, for example, a numerical display of the number of vehicles, a display with different colors for each number of vehicles, or a representation on a route map.

[0047] [Example of display in Traffic Control System 2] First, we will explain an example of how the calculated number of electric vehicles is displayed in a predetermined format in the traffic control system 2.

[0048] Figure 4 is a diagram showing an example of section information 13 and measurement equipment information 112 in Embodiment 1. Figure 4(a) shows a road divided into multiple sections and measuring equipment installed in each section. Specifically, the sections are defined by dividing the road from position A to position B into section a, from position B to position C into section b, and so on, with the road from position A to position G divided into sections a to f. Thus, the section information 13 is information that the road is divided into sections such as section a to section f.

[0049] Furthermore, the measuring equipment is installed in each section, for example, measuring equipment 1 in section a and measuring equipment 2 in section b. Note that multiple measuring equipment may be installed in each section. For example, measuring equipment 3 and measuring equipment 4 are installed in section c. Thus, the measuring equipment information 112 is, for example, information about the measuring equipment installed in each section.

[0050] Figure 4(b) shows the multiple sections shown in Figure 4(a), the start point of each section, the end point of each section, and the measurement equipment used to measure each section. The calculation unit 122 of the electric vehicle measurement device 12 uses, for example, the section information 13 and the measurement equipment information 112 to set the sections, which determine the start and end points for each section, and to set the measurement equipment for each section.

[0051] Specifically, the calculation unit 122 sets section a as starting point at position A, ending point at position B, and measurement equipment 1. The calculation unit 122 also sets section b as starting point at position B, ending point at position C, and measurement equipment 2. Furthermore, the calculation unit 122 sets section c as starting point at position C, ending point at position D, and measurement equipment 3. In sections like c, where both measurement equipment 3 and measurement equipment 4 exist, the calculation unit 122 selects the appropriate measurement equipment. The calculation unit 122 similarly sets the measurement equipment for sections d and beyond.

[0052] Figure 5 shows an example of displaying the number of electric vehicles by the electric vehicle measurement device 12 of Embodiment 1. In Figure 5, the items of the measurement equipment shown in Figure 4(b) represent the number of electric vehicles measured by the measurement equipment in a table format. Here, the section, start point, end point, and measurement equipment shown in Figure 4 are the same as those shown in Figure 4(b). Note that the display example is, for example, the display information output to the output unit 4 by the output control unit 124 of the electric vehicle measurement device 12.

[0053] The calculation unit 122 of the electric vehicle measurement device 12 calculates the number of electric vehicles in each section using, for example, the section set by the section information 13 and the measurement equipment information 112, the measurement equipment for each section, and the information determined to be whether or not it is an electric vehicle. Alternatively, it may be the traffic volume of electric vehicles.

[0054] As shown in Figure 5, the output control unit 124 of the electric vehicle measurement device 12 controls the system to display the number of electric vehicles for each section from section a to section f, for example, 20 electric vehicles in section a and 53 electric vehicles in section b.

[0055] Figure 6 shows an example 2 of the display of the number of electric vehicles by the electric vehicle measurement device 12 of Embodiment 1. The section, starting point, ending point, and measurement equipment shown in Figure 6 are the same as those shown in Figure 4(a). In Figure 6, the number of electric vehicles measured by the measurement equipment within the section shown in Figure 3(a) is represented numerically on the route map.

[0056] As shown in Figure 6, the output control unit 124 of the electric vehicle measurement device 12 displays the number of electric vehicles for each section from section a to section f, for example, 20 electric vehicles in section a and 53 electric vehicles in section b. The number of electric vehicles for each section is calculated by the calculation unit 122.

[0057] Figure 7 shows an example 3 of the display of the number of electric vehicles by the electric vehicle measuring device 12 of Embodiment 1. Figure 6 shows the number of electric vehicles numerically on a route map. Figure 7 shows the number of electric vehicles on a route map using color coding. One example of color coding is changing the pattern based on a predetermined number of vehicles.

[0058] As shown in Figure 7, the output control unit 124 of the electric vehicle measurement device 12 uses a color-coding system as an example: white for 20 units or less, a diagonal line to the lower right for 21 to 50 units, a diagonal line to the upper right for 51 to 100 units, and black for 101 units or more. Note that the divisions and color coding patterns are just examples. Instead of a pattern, the colors could be changed for each unit.

[0059] Figure 8 shows the section information 13 of Example 4 of the display of the number of electric vehicles by the electric vehicle measuring device 12 of Embodiment 1. Figure 7 displays the information separately for one direction of travel on the road and the opposite direction of travel.

[0060] Figure 8(a) shows two points defining a section, and the sections (uphill) and (downhill). For example, the section between point A and point B is called section a. One direction of travel in section a is called a-up. The opposite direction of travel in section a is called a-down. Sections are set from a-up, a-down to p-up, p-down.

[0061] Figure 8(b) is a diagram showing the table in Figure 8(a) on a route map. It shows two points that define a section, as well as multiple sections (upbound) and sections (downbound).

[0062] Figure 9 shows an example 4 of the display of the number of electric vehicles by the electric vehicle measuring device 12 of Embodiment 1. Figure 9 shows, for example, the number of vehicles or electric vehicles for each section of the route map in Figure 8(b).

[0063] Figure 9(a) shows the number of vehicles for each section on the route map. Figure 9(b) shows the number of electric vehicles for each section on the route map. Note that vehicles include electric vehicles and gasoline vehicles.

[0064] The output control unit 124 of the electric vehicle measurement device 12 controls the output to display the number of vehicles or electric vehicles for each section on the route map, for example, when the user selects the number of vehicles or electric vehicles.

[0065] Specifically, the output control unit 124 controls the output unit 4 to change the display from the number of vehicles shown in Figure 9(a) to the number of electric vehicles shown in Figure 9(b) if, for example, the user selects to display the number of electric vehicles. The output control unit 124 determines, for example, that the user has selected the "EV" item to display the number of electric vehicles.

[0066] Furthermore, the output control unit 124 controls the output unit 4 to change the display from the number of electric vehicles shown in Figure 9(b) to the number of vehicles shown in Figure 9(a) if, for example, the user selects to display the number of vehicles. The output control unit 124 determines, for example, that the user has selected to display the number of vehicles if the "All" item is selected.

[0067] Thus, in the traffic control system 2, displaying not only the total number of vehicles but also the number of electric vehicles only for each section of the route offers advantages in responding to broken-down vehicles stopped on the road. One of the causes of vehicle breakdowns is running out of fuel, and the equipment required to deal with gasoline vehicles differs from that required for electric vehicles. By knowing the number of electric vehicles for each section, it becomes possible to appropriately equip patrol vehicles dispatched to the scene and respond accordingly.

[0068] [Example of display in Facility Control System 3] Next, we will explain an example of how the calculated number of electric vehicles is displayed in the facility control system 3.

[0069] Figure 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of the installation of charging equipment in the facility control system 3 of Embodiment 1. Figure 10(a) shows the number of vehicles per section on the route map shown in Figure 9(a). Figure 10(b) shows the number of electric vehicles per section on the route map shown in Figure 9(b). The definitions of points and sections on the route map shown in Figure 10 are the same as the definitions of points and sections on the route map shown in Figure 9(b).

[0070] As shown in Figure 10(b), for example, the section with the highest number of electric vehicles among multiple sections is section b between point B and point D. There are 210 electric vehicles in section b. Therefore, it can be seen that the highest number of electric vehicles pass through section b. Thus, the electric vehicle measurement device 12 can be used in the facility control system 3 to consider the introduction of equipment such as charging spots, power supply lanes, and fire extinguishing equipment for electric vehicles by showing the number of electric vehicles for each section on the route map.

[0071] As shown in Figure 10(a), the section with the largest number of vehicles among the multiple sections is section m between point L and point M. There are 420 vehicles in section m. On the other hand, there are 80 electric vehicles in section m.

[0072] Conventionally, when considering the introduction of facilities such as electric vehicle charging stations, power supply lanes, and electric vehicle fire extinguishing equipment based on the number of vehicles, there is a possibility of installing them in locations with a small number of electric vehicles. However, by displaying the number of electric vehicles for each section on the route map, the electric vehicle measurement device 12 allows users to consider the introduction of facilities such as charging stations, power supply lanes, and electric vehicle fire extinguishing equipment more accurately than by using the number of vehicles in the facility control system 3.

[0073] Specifically, the electric vehicle measurement device 12 outputs the number of electric vehicles in each section, which can be used by the facility control system 3 to identify sections where the development and expansion of charging spots and automatic power supply lanes would be most effective. The facility control system 3 can then use the number of electric vehicles in each section output by the electric vehicle measurement device 12 for its analysis.

[0074] Figure 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of the installation of fire extinguishing equipment in the facility control system 3 of Embodiment 1. Figure 11(a) shows the number of vehicles per section on the route map shown in Figure 9(a). Figure 11(b) shows the number of electric vehicles per section on the route map shown in Figure 9(b). The definitions of points and sections on the route map shown in Figure 11 are the same as the definitions of points and sections on the route map shown in Figure 8(b).

[0075] As shown in Figure 11(b), for example, we consider a scenario where a disaster such as a fire occurs at multiple locations, such as in section g between point G and point H, and in section p between point O and point P. Furthermore, we assume there are 120 electric vehicles in section g and 30 electric vehicles in section p.

[0076] This allows users to dispatch personnel according to the number of electric vehicles in each disaster-stricken area, based on the number of electric vehicles displayed in the facility control system 3 during a disaster. It also enables the arrangement and installation of fire extinguishing equipment for electric vehicles.

[0077] Here, as shown in Figure 11(a), comparing section g and section p where the disaster occurred, there are 220 vehicles in section g and 330 vehicles in section p.

[0078] Traditionally, when arranging or installing personnel dispatch or fire extinguishing equipment for electric vehicles based on the number of vehicles, it is difficult to accurately arrange or install these items because the number of electric vehicles is unknown. However, the electric vehicle measurement device 12 displays the number of electric vehicles for each section on the route map, allowing the facility control system 3 to more optimally arrange or install personnel dispatch or fire extinguishing equipment for electric vehicles than would be possible using the number of vehicles alone.

[0079] Specifically, the electric vehicle measurement device 12 can display the number of electric vehicles in real time by constantly acquiring information on whether or not a vehicle is an electric vehicle, using vehicle count information 110 and vehicle type information 111. This allows the facility control system 3 to respond quickly in the event of a disaster or other emergency. Real-time also includes updating the display at predetermined intervals, such as every 30 seconds or every minute. Furthermore, since the electric vehicle measurement device 12 displays the number of electric vehicles for each section, users can allocate appropriate electric vehicle equipment to each section.

[0080] <Embodiment 2> Next, Embodiment 2 will be described. Embodiment 2 is an embodiment that more accurately measures the number of electric vehicles using, for example, photographic information 113 in which the vehicle's emblem is photographed by an imaging means.

[0081] Figure 12 shows the overall configuration of the traffic volume measurement system 10 according to Embodiment 2.

[0082] As shown in Figure 12, the traffic volume measurement system 10 comprises a traffic volume measurement device 11 and an electric vehicle measurement device 12. The electric vehicle measurement device 12 also acquires section information 13 from an external source. Note that the electric vehicle measurement device 12 and the section information 13 are the same as in Embodiment 1, so their description is omitted.

[0083] The traffic volume measuring device 11 includes a traffic counter 14, a camera 16, a storage unit 1100, and a determination unit 115. The traffic counter 14 is the same as in Embodiment 1, so its description is omitted.

[0084] Camera 16 is an example of measurement equipment. Camera 16 photographs the road, including vehicles. Camera 16 acquires photographic information 113. For example, camera 16 may photograph the rear of a vehicle to capture an emblem.

[0085] The photographic information 113 is, for example, an image of a road including the photographed vehicle. In this embodiment, the photographic information 113 is included in the vehicle type information 111.

[0086] The memory unit 1100 includes measurement equipment information 112 and emblem information 114. The measurement equipment information 112 is the same as in Embodiment 1, so its description is omitted.

[0087] Emblem information 114 includes, as an example, manufacturer emblems for electric vehicles, emblems for electric vehicles, and emblems for hybrid vehicles and plug-in hybrid vehicles. Emblem information 114 also includes the vehicle shape of electric vehicles.

[0088] The determination unit 115 determines from the photographic information 113 whether or not the vehicle is an electric vehicle. The determination unit 115 may, for example, determine whether or not the vehicle is an electric vehicle from the emblem provided on the vehicle. Furthermore, the determination unit 115 may identify the vehicle type from the vehicle shape and determine whether or not it is an electric vehicle.

[0089] The determination unit 115 determines, for example, whether or not it is an electric vehicle using the stored emblem information 114 and the emblem from the photographed information 113.

[0090] Alternatively, the determination unit 115 may, for example, link a vehicle identified as an electric vehicle by the first measurement device with the license plate number of that vehicle, and then determine if a vehicle is an electric vehicle based on the license plate number in subsequent measurement devices. Note that it is not limited to the license plate number; the ETC number may also be used.

[0091] As a result, the determination unit 115 can reduce the processing required to determine whether a vehicle is an electric vehicle from the vehicle type information 111, which includes the photographic information 113, for the first and subsequent measurement devices. The determination unit 115 sends the information on whether or not the vehicle is an electric vehicle to the electric vehicle measurement device 12.

[0092] Figure 13 shows an example of an emblem determined by the traffic volume measuring device 11 of Embodiment 2. The manufacturer emblem shown in Figure 13 is an example of the emblem information 114 in the storage unit 1100. The emblem information 114 stores multiple manufacturer emblems, from manufacturer emblem A to manufacturer emblem Z, for example, of an electric vehicle manufacturer.

[0093] The determination unit 115 determines, for example, whether the vehicle emblem included in the photographic information 113 is the manufacturer emblem of an electric vehicle manufacturer based on whether or not it is included in the emblem information 114. For example, if the photographic information 113 contains the manufacturer emblem of an electric vehicle, the determination unit 115 can determine that it is an electric vehicle.

[0094] Figure 14 shows an example of an electric vehicle emblem determined by the traffic volume measuring device 11 of Embodiment 2. The electric vehicle emblem shown in Figure 14 is an example of the emblem information 114 in the storage unit 1100. The emblem information 114 stores, for example, multiple emblems representing electric vehicles, from electric vehicle emblem A to electric vehicle emblem Z.

[0095] The determination unit 115 determines, for example, whether the vehicle emblem included in the photographic information 113 is an electric vehicle emblem based on whether or not it is included in the emblem information 114. For example, if the electric vehicle emblem is included in the emblem information 114 from the photographic information 113, the determination unit 115 can determine that it is an electric vehicle.

[0096] Figure 15 shows an example of a hybrid vehicle emblem determined by the traffic volume measuring device 11 of Embodiment 2. The hybrid vehicle emblem shown in Figure 15 is an example of the emblem information 114 in the storage unit 1100. The emblem information 114 stores, for example, multiple emblems representing hybrid vehicles, from hybrid emblem A to hybrid emblem Z.

[0097] The determination unit 115 determines, for example, whether the vehicle emblem included in the photographic information 113 is a hybrid emblem based on whether or not it is included in the emblem information 114. If, for example, the photographic information 113 contains a hybrid emblem in the emblem information 114, the determination unit 115 can determine that it is an electric vehicle.

[0098] Figure 16 is a flowchart showing the operation of the traffic volume measuring device 11 of Embodiment 2.

[0099] In Figure 16, the determination unit 115 of the traffic volume measurement device 11 acquires photographic information 113 from the camera 16. The determination unit 115 also acquires time information for determining a vehicle from the photographic information 113, based on input information set by the user (step S21).

[0100] Here, the time information refers to, for example, the time interval used to determine the number of electric vehicles from the photographic information 113. The time interval is set by the user, such as every 5 seconds or every 1 minute.

[0101] The determination unit 115 determines whether or not it is within the set time period set by the time information (step S22).

[0102] If the determination unit 115 determines that it is outside the set time (step S22; No), it outputs the number of electric vehicles (number of units) calculated within the set time to the number information 110 of the storage unit 1100 (step S23).

[0103] The determination unit 115 resets the electric vehicle count and updates the set time. Then it returns to step S22 (step S24).

[0104] If the determination unit 115 determines that the time is within the set time (step S22; Yes), it detects the vehicle from the captured information 113 (step S25).

[0105] The determination unit 115 detects the vehicle's emblem from the photographic information 113 that detected the vehicle (step S26).

[0106] The determination unit 115 determines whether the detected emblem is an emblem of an electric vehicle (electric vehicle, plug-in hybrid vehicle, hybrid vehicle, etc.). For example, it determines whether it is an electric vehicle using the emblem information 114 and the detected emblem (step S27).

[0107] If the determination unit 115 determines that it is not an electric vehicle emblem (step S27; No), it returns to step S22.

[0108] If the determination unit 115 determines that it is an electric vehicle emblem (step S27; Yes), it detects the vehicle shape (step S28).

[0109] The determination unit 115 determines whether or not the vehicle is an electric vehicle based on the detected vehicle shape. For example, it determines whether or not the vehicle is an electric vehicle using the vehicle shape from the emblem information 114 and the detected vehicle shape (step S29).

[0110] If the determination unit 115 determines from the vehicle shape that it is not an electric vehicle (step S29; No), it returns to step S22.

[0111] If the determination unit 115 determines from the vehicle shape that it is an electric vehicle (step S29; Yes), it counts the number of electric vehicles within the set time. Then, it returns to step S22 and makes the determination again (step S30).

[0112] The above process is just one example, and for instance, the vehicle shape detection in steps S28 and S29 may be omitted. In that case, the determination unit 115 will determine if the vehicle is an electric vehicle based on the vehicle's emblem. Alternatively, the determination unit 115 may omit the emblem detection in steps S26 and S27. In that case, the determination unit 115 will determine if the vehicle is an electric vehicle based on the vehicle shape detection.

[0113] Furthermore, the processing method by the electric vehicle measuring device 12 described in each of the above embodiments can also be implemented by a program executable by a computer. That is, it is possible to store a program that implements the processing method described in each of the above embodiments in memory, read the program from memory using a computer processing circuit, and construct the processing method described in each of the above embodiments through the cooperation of software and hardware resources.

[0114] The traffic volume measurement system of this embodiment includes an acquisition unit that acquires the number of vehicles traveling on the road and vehicle type information including the type of power source; a determination unit that determines whether or not a vehicle is an electric vehicle using the acquired number of vehicles and vehicle type information; a calculation unit that calculates the number of electric vehicles determined for each predetermined section of the road; and an output control unit that controls the output to display the number of electric vehicles for each predetermined section of the road.

[0115] This allows the traffic volume measurement system to output the number of electric vehicles (EVs) for each designated section. By outputting the number of EVs for each section, it can provide users with information to accurately consider the locations for installing EV facilities such as charging stations and automatic charging lanes. Furthermore, by outputting the number of EVs in real time, it can provide users with information to accurately consider the allocation of personnel to be deployed based on the number of EVs during a disaster.

[0116] Furthermore, the traffic volume measurement system of this embodiment includes, for example, a traffic volume measurement device comprising an acquisition unit and a determination unit, and an electric vehicle measurement device comprising a calculation unit and an output control unit.

[0117] This allows the traffic volume measurement device to determine whether a vehicle is an electric vehicle based on its vehicle type information. Furthermore, the electric vehicle measurement device can calculate the number of electric vehicles determined for each predetermined section of the road.

[0118] Furthermore, in the traffic volume measurement system of this embodiment, for example, the acquisition unit acquires vehicle type information from a vehicle-to-infrastructure communication device that communicates with vehicles traveling on the road.

[0119] This allows the vehicle type information to be obtained via the vehicle-to-infrastructure communication device, and it can be determined whether or not it is an electric vehicle.

[0120] Furthermore, in the traffic volume measurement system of this embodiment, for example, the acquisition unit acquires vehicle type information including photographic information from a camera that photographs vehicles traveling on the road, and the determination unit determines whether or not a vehicle is an electric vehicle from the emblem provided on the vehicle in the photographic information.

[0121] This allows a camera to be used to determine whether or not a vehicle is electric based on its emblem.

[0122] Furthermore, in the traffic volume measurement system of this embodiment, for example, the acquisition unit acquires vehicle type information including photographic information from a camera that photographs vehicles traveling on the road, and the determination unit determines whether or not it is an electric vehicle based on the shape of the vehicle in the photographic information.

[0123] This allows us to determine whether or not a vehicle is an electric vehicle based on its shape using a camera.

[0124] Furthermore, the electric vehicle measurement device of this embodiment includes, for example, a calculation unit that obtains information from a traffic volume measurement device that determines whether or not a vehicle is an electric vehicle using vehicle type information including the number of vehicles traveling on the road and the type of power source, and calculates the number of electric vehicles determined for each predetermined section of the road, and an output control unit that controls the device to output the number of electric vehicles for each predetermined section of the road.

[0125] This allows the system to output the number of electric vehicles in each designated section. By outputting the number of electric vehicles in each section, the system can provide users with information to accurately consider the locations for installing electric vehicle facilities such as charging stations and automatic charging lanes.

[0126] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the electric vehicle measurement device acquires vehicle type information, for example, from a vehicle-to-infrastructure communication device that communicates with vehicles traveling on the road. This allows the vehicle type information to be acquired by the vehicle-to-infrastructure communication device, and enables determination of whether or not it is an electric vehicle.

[0127] Furthermore, in this embodiment of the electric vehicle measuring device, for example, vehicle type information is acquired from a camera that photographs vehicles traveling on the road, and the calculation unit acquires information determining whether or not a vehicle is an electric vehicle based on the emblem provided on the vehicle in the photographic information included in the vehicle type information. In this way, it is possible to determine whether or not a vehicle is an electric vehicle from the emblem using a camera.

[0128] Furthermore, in this embodiment of the electric vehicle measurement device, for example, vehicle type information is acquired from a camera that photographs vehicles traveling on the road, and the calculation unit acquires information determining whether or not a vehicle is an electric vehicle based on the vehicle shape of the photographed information included in the vehicle type information. In this way, it is possible to determine whether or not a vehicle is an electric vehicle from its shape by using a camera.

[0129] Furthermore, the electric vehicle measurement device of this embodiment, for example, has a calculation unit that acquires section information, which divides the road into predetermined sections, and measurement equipment information, which includes the locations where multiple measurement devices are installed. Using this section information and measurement equipment information, the device can output the number of electric vehicles for each section.

[0130] Furthermore, in the electric vehicle measurement device of this embodiment, for example, the output control unit controls the device to display the number of electric vehicles for each predetermined section of the road on a route map. By doing so, the electric vehicle measurement device can provide the user with information that makes it easy to compare the number of electric vehicles at multiple locations by displaying the number of electric vehicles for each section on a route map.

[0131] Furthermore, in the electric vehicle measurement device of this embodiment, for example, the output control unit controls the display of the number of electric vehicles in each predetermined section of the road, color-coded according to the predetermined number of vehicles. As a result, the electric vehicle measurement device can provide users with information that makes it easy to compare which sections have a large number of electric vehicles by displaying the number of electric vehicles in each section, color-coded according to the predetermined number of vehicles.

[0132] Furthermore, the electric vehicle measurement method of this embodiment determines whether a vehicle is an electric vehicle using, for example, the number of vehicles traveling on the road and vehicle type information including the type of power source, calculates the number of determined electric vehicles for each predetermined section of the road, and controls the system to output the number of electric vehicles for each predetermined section of the road.

[0133] While embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications are possible without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments are included within the scope and spirit of the invention, as well as within the scope of the claims and their equivalents. [Explanation of symbols]

[0134] 1...Road control system, 2...Traffic control system, 3...Facility control system, 4...Output unit, 10...Traffic volume measurement system, 11...Traffic volume measurement device, 12...Electric vehicle measurement device, 13...Section information, 20...Weather information, 21...Traffic congestion prediction model, 22...Accident prediction model, 110...Number of vehicles information, 111...Vehicle type information, 112...Measurement equipment information, 115...Decision unit, 122...Calculation unit, 124...Output control unit, 1100...Storage unit (acquisition unit).

Claims

1. An acquisition unit that acquires the number of vehicles traveling on the road and vehicle type information including the type of powertrain, A determination unit that determines whether or not a vehicle is an electric vehicle using the number of vehicles acquired and the vehicle type information, A calculation unit that calculates the number of electric vehicles determined for each predetermined section of the road, An output control unit that controls the output to display the number of electric vehicles for each predetermined section of the road, A traffic volume measurement system equipped with the following features.

2. A traffic volume measuring device comprising the acquisition unit and the determination unit, An electric vehicle measuring device comprising the calculation unit and the output control unit, The traffic volume measurement system according to claim 1, comprising:

3. The acquisition unit acquires the vehicle type information from a vehicle-to-infrastructure communication device that communicates with vehicles traveling on the road. The traffic volume measurement system according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The acquisition unit acquires the vehicle type information, including the image information, from a camera that photographs vehicles traveling on a road. The determination unit determines from the photographic information whether or not the vehicle is an electric vehicle based on the emblem provided on the vehicle. The traffic volume measurement system according to claim 2.

5. The acquisition unit acquires the vehicle type information, including the image information, from a camera that photographs vehicles traveling on a road. The determination unit identifies the vehicle type from the vehicle shape of the photographed information and determines whether or not it is an electric vehicle. The traffic volume measurement system according to claim 2 or 4.

6. A calculation unit obtains information from a traffic volume measuring device that determines whether or not a vehicle is an electric vehicle using the number of vehicles traveling on the road and vehicle type information including the type of power source, and calculates the number of electric vehicles determined for each predetermined section of the road. An output control unit that controls the output to display the number of electric vehicles for each predetermined section of the road, An electric vehicle measuring device equipped with the following features.

7. The aforementioned vehicle information is obtained from a vehicle-to-infrastructure communication device that communicates with vehicles traveling on the road. The electric vehicle measuring device according to claim 6.

8. The aforementioned vehicle information is obtained from cameras that photograph vehicles traveling on the road. The calculation unit obtains information from the photographic information included in the vehicle type information, determining whether or not the vehicle is an electric vehicle based on the emblem provided on the vehicle. The electric vehicle measuring device according to claim 6.

9. The aforementioned vehicle information is obtained from cameras that photograph vehicles traveling on the road. The calculation unit identifies the vehicle name from the vehicle shape of the photographic information included in the vehicle information and obtains information determining whether or not it is an electric vehicle. The electric vehicle measuring device according to claim 6.

10. The calculation unit acquires section information, which divides the road into predetermined sections, and measurement equipment information, which includes the locations where multiple measurement devices are installed. The electric vehicle measuring device according to any one of claims 6 to 9.

11. The output control unit, The system controls the number of electric vehicles in each predetermined section of the aforementioned road to be displayed on the route map. The electric vehicle measuring device according to any one of claims 6 to 9.

12. The output control unit, The system controls the number of electric vehicles in each predetermined section of the road to be displayed in different colors according to the predetermined number of vehicles. The electric vehicle measuring device according to any one of claims 6 to 9.

13. The number of vehicles on the road and vehicle type information, including the type of power source, are used to determine whether or not a vehicle is an electric vehicle. The number of electric vehicles determined for each predetermined section of the road is calculated, Control to output the number of electric vehicles for each predetermined section of the road. Electric vehicle measurement method.

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