MOVING PLAN PROPOSAL METHOD, MOVING PLAN PROPOSAL DEVICE, AND MOVING SYSTEM

Abstract

To provide a technique for proposing a movement plan which is useful for a user who is scheduled to move from a departure point to a destination point and participate in a web meeting before and after the movement and which is easily accepted by the user.SOLUTION: A method for proposing to a user a movement plan using a mobile vehicle with equipment for web meeting is provided. The method comprises the steps of: acquiring user schedule information including a movement from a first point to a second point and a participation in a web meeting before and after the movement; acquiring communication level information in an area including a road from the first point to the second point; generating a candidate of the movement plan, the candidate including a candidate that prohibits the mobile vehicle from being located in a communication district having a communication level lower than a threshold in a time zone scheduled to participate in the web meeting; and transmitting the candidate to a terminal of the user.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a method and apparatus for proposing to a user a travel plan using a mobile object having a web conferencing facility, and a system for controlling the mobile object according to the travel plan. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses an apparatus for generating a route from a departure point to a destination. This conventional apparatus generates multiple route candidates that a user can select from based on information on the user's departure point and destination. The multiple route candidates include candidates that allow the optimal communication line to be used during the movement from the departure point to the destination. Patent Document 1 also states that the generation of the multiple route candidates may be performed in a car navigation system. In other words, Patent Document 1 states that the means of transportation from the departure point to the destination may be a vehicle equipped with this car navigation system. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2008-236381 A [Patent Document 2] JP 2020-140733 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] According to the device of Patent Document 1, when a user travels by vehicle along a route from a starting point to a destination, the user can select a route that allows the user to use an optimal communication line. Therefore, for example, when the user plans to use a communication line for data communication or the like, it is expected that the user will select this candidate.

[0005] However, it is expected that the route that can use the optimal communication circuit will partially include roads with low communication quality. In this case, it is disadvantageous for the user if the time period when the road has low communication quality overlaps with the scheduled time period of data communication. In particular, when the data communication is a web conference, the deterioration of communication quality leads to stress for the conference participants. Therefore, it is desirable to notify the user in advance if there is any such disadvantageous information.

[0006] Consider a case where disadvantageous information is notified to a user in the case where data communication is a web conference. In this case, the user is implicitly expected to change the scheduled time of the web conference to avoid the time period in which the disadvantage occurs. However, changing the scheduled time period requires not only the user's schedule but also that of other conference participants. In this case, notifying the user of the disadvantageous information leads to the user not ultimately selecting a route that can utilize the optimal communication line, which would result in the generation of a route being wasted.

[0007] One objective of the present disclosure is to provide a technology that proposes a travel plan that is beneficial to a user who plans to travel from a departure point to a destination and participate in a web conference before and after the travel, and that is also acceptable to the user. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] A first aspect of the present disclosure is a method for proposing to a user a travel plan using a mobile object having a web conferencing facility, the method having the following features. The method comprises: acquiring information about the user's schedule, including travel from a first location to a second location and participation in a web conference before and after the travel from the first location to the second location; acquiring information on a communication level in an area including a road connecting the first point to the second point; generating candidate travel plans for the mobile object to travel from the first location to the second location based on the schedule information and the communication level information, the candidate travel plans including a candidate in which the mobile object is prohibited from being located in a communication area having a communication level lower than a threshold during a time period in which the mobile object is scheduled to participate in the web conference; transmitting the candidate movement plan to a terminal of the user; Includes.

[0009] The second aspect of the present disclosure has the same features as the first aspect, as described below. The mobile body further includes a deskwork facility. The schedule further includes performing desk work before and after traveling from the first location to the second location. The candidates for the movement plan include candidates in which the mobile unit is permitted to be located in a communication area having a communication level lower than the threshold during the time period when the desk work is scheduled to be performed.

[0010] A third aspect of the present disclosure has the same features as the first aspect, as described below. The mobile body further includes a deskwork facility. The schedule further includes performing desk work before and after traveling from the first location to the second location. The candidates for the movement plan include candidates in which the mobile unit is prohibited from being located in a communication area having a communication level higher than the threshold during the time period in which the desk work is scheduled to be performed.

[0011] A fourth aspect of the present disclosure is any one of the first to third aspects, further comprising the following features. The step of generating candidate movement plans includes: determining whether a candidate in which the mobile unit is located in a communication area having a communication level higher than the threshold during an original time period in which the mobile unit is scheduled to participate in the web conference has been extracted; changing the original time period when it is determined that the candidate was not extracted in the original time period, and determining whether or not a candidate in which the mobile unit is located within a communication area having a communication level higher than the threshold is extracted in the changed time period; generating a candidate in which the mobile object is prohibited from being located in a communication area having a communication level lower than the threshold value during the changed time period when it is determined that the candidate has been extracted during the changed time period; Includes. In the step of transmitting the candidate travel plan to the user's terminal, a change to the original time zone is suggested to the user.

[0012] A fifth aspect of the present disclosure is an apparatus for proposing to a user a travel plan using a mobile object having a web conference facility, the apparatus having the following features. The device includes a memory in which various information is stored, and a processor that processes the various information. The various information includes information about the user's schedule, including travel from a first location to a second location and participation in web conferences before and after travel from the first location to the second location, and information about communication levels in an area including a road connecting the first location to the second location. The processor generates candidate travel plans for the mobile object to travel from the first location to the second location based on the schedule information and the communication level information, the candidate travel plans including a candidate that prohibits the mobile object from being located in a communication area having a communication level lower than a threshold during a time period when the mobile object is scheduled to participate in the web conference. The processor also transmits the candidate movement plans to the user terminal.

[0013] A sixth aspect of the present disclosure is a mobile system having the following features. The mobile system includes a mobile object and a management server. The mobile object includes a web conference facility, a traveling device, and a traveling control device. The management server includes a memory that stores various information and a processor that processes the various information. The management server proposes a travel plan using the mobile object to a user. The various information includes information about the user's schedule, including travel from a first location to a second location and participation in web conferences before and after travel from the first location to the second location, and information about communication levels in an area including a road connecting the first location to the second location. The processor generates candidate travel plans for the mobile object to travel from the first location to the second location based on the schedule information and the communication level information, the candidate travel plans including a candidate that prohibits the mobile object from being located in a communication area having a communication level lower than a threshold during a time period when the mobile object is scheduled to participate in the web conference. The processor also transmits the candidate movement plans to the user terminal. The processor also transmits movement plan information generated based on the candidate movement plan to the mobile unit if the candidate movement plan is accepted by the user. The travel control device controls the travel device based on the movement plan information. Effect of the Invention

[0014] According to the first or fifth aspect, when a user plans to move from a first location to a second location and plans to participate in a web conference before or after the move, it is possible to propose to the user a candidate for a movement plan that realizes participation in the web conference while the user is moving by the moving object. The candidate includes a candidate in which the moving object is prohibited from being located in a communication area having a communication level lower than a threshold during the time period when the user plans to participate in the web conference. Therefore, consideration is given to avoid a situation in which the data communication environment is degraded during the time period when the user plans to participate in the web conference. Therefore, according to the first or fifth aspect, it is possible to propose a movement plan that is beneficial to the user who plans to move from a first location to a second location and to participate in a web conference before or after the move, and is also easy for the user to accept.

[0015] According to the second or third aspect, when desk work is scheduled to be performed before or after moving from a first location to a second location, it is possible to suggest to the user US candidate movement plans for achieving this desk work within the room of the moving body.

[0016] According to the fourth aspect, when no candidate travel plan that realizes participation in a web conference can be extracted during the original time period in which participation in the web conference is scheduled, it is possible to suggest to the user a candidate travel plan with a changed time period.

[0017] According to the sixth aspect, if a candidate travel plan is accepted by a user, it becomes possible to realize stress-free participation in a web conference while traveling by a mobile object. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0018] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining an overview of a first embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a candidate migration plan generated in the management server in a schedule format. [Diagram 3]11 is a diagram illustrating an example of a candidate movement plan in which communication level information V is taken into consideration. FIG. [Figure 4] 13 is a diagram illustrating another example of a candidate movement plan in which communication level information V is taken into consideration. FIG. [Diagram 5] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a management server. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a moving body. [Figure 7] 13 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing performed by an information processing device (processor) of the management server. [Figure 8] FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining an overview of a second embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of a candidate moving plan generated in the second embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating another example of a candidate moving plan generated in the second embodiment. [Figure 11] 13 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing performed by an information processing device (processor) of the management server. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0019] Hereinafter, a movement plan proposal method, a movement plan proposal device, and a movement system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. The proposal method according to the embodiment is realized by computer processing performed by a management server as a proposal device according to the embodiment. In addition, in each drawing, the same or corresponding parts are given the same reference numerals, and the description thereof is simplified or omitted.

[0020] 1. First embodiment A first embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0021] 1-1. Overview FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining an overview of the first embodiment. FIG. 1 shows an example of a schedule SC1 of a user US. The schedule SC1 is, for example, the schedule for one day (e.g., Friday) of the user US. However, the schedule SC1 may also be a schedule that spans multiple dates (e.g., two days, Friday and Saturday). It is assumed that the information on the schedule SC1 (hereinafter also referred to as "schedule information SCH") is grasped by the management server MS on the day before (e.g., Thursday) or earlier.

[0022] In the example shown in Fig. 1, a web conference WM1 is scheduled for a time period from time T1 to T2. Also, a web conference WM2 is scheduled for a time period from time T3 to T4. In the web conferences WM1 and WM2, communication with remote parties is performed via an application or web browser using a communication terminal such as a personal computer, a smartphone, or a tablet terminal. Examples of the web conferences WM1 and WM2 include meetings, seminars, and workshops with remote parties.

[0023] The web conferences WM1 and WM2 are scheduled to be held at a location (first location) P1. The location P1 is typically the workplace or home of the user US. However, even if the location is a base other than the workplace or home (for example, a base away from home), it can be a candidate for the location P1 as long as it is a base equipped with web conference equipment such as an information processing device and a camera. In addition, if the user US carries a communication terminal and plans to participate in the web conferences WM1 and WM2 using this communication terminal, it can be a candidate for the location P1 as long as it is a base equipped with communication equipment as web conference equipment.

[0024] The information that the location of participation in the web conferences WM1 and WM2 is the location P1 does not have to be known by the management server MS. Moreover, this information does not have to be included in the schedule SC1. In other words, it is sufficient for the management server MS to know at least the time periods when participation in the web conferences WM1 and WM2 is scheduled, and the information of the location when participating in these web conferences is optional information.

[0025] In the example shown in FIG. 1, travel TR from point P1 to point (second point) P2 is scheduled for the time period from time T5 to T6. Point P2 is not particularly limited as long as it is a point away from point P1. For example, if point P1 is the home of user US, point P2 is a remote location other than the home, and if point P1 is the workplace of user US, point P2 is a remote location other than the workplace. In the example shown in FIG. 1, a vacation VC is scheduled after time T4 (or time T5), and point P2 is a base for the travel destination (for example, a hotel where the user is staying).

[0026] The point P1 corresponds to the starting point of the travel TR, and the point P2 corresponds to the destination point of the travel TR. Information that the travel TR will be made from the point P1 to the point P2 during the time period from time T5 to T6, and the position information of the points P1 and P2 are grasped by the management server MS.

[0027] 1-2. Travel plan As described above, the schedule SC1 includes participation in the web conferences WM1 and WM2, and travel TR from point P1 to point P2. Also, as described in the explanation of point P1, participation in a web conference is possible if there is a web conference facility. Therefore, in the first embodiment, a mobile body MB having a web conference facility is considered. Then, a candidate travel plan for realizing participation in the web conferences WM1 and WM2 during the travel TR from point P1 to point P2 using the mobile body MB is generated in the management server MS.

[0028] FIG. 2 shows an example of a schedule SC1_M generated in the management server MS. The schedule SC1_M is one of the candidates for a movement plan generated in the management server MS. Showed In the example shown in FIG. 2, the user US gets on the moving body MB at time T7, which is before time T1. The pick-up position of the user US is point P1. The user US gets off the moving body MB at time T8, which is after time T4. The drop-off position of the user US is point P2. In other words, between time T7 and time T8, the user US travels TR from point P1 to point P2 using the moving body MB.

[0029] In the example shown in Fig. 2, participation in the web conferences WM1 and WM2 is performed by using the web conference equipment of the mobile unit MB. Therefore, according to the example shown in Fig. 2, it is possible to advance the arrival time (e.g., time T8) at the point P2 compared to the case where the mobile unit MB departs from the point P1 after the end time (time T4) of the web conference WM2 (i.e., the example shown in Fig. 1). Here, time leeway gives the user US a psychological sense of leeway. Therefore, the schedule SC1_M is beneficial to the user US, and is considered to be easily accepted by the user US.

[0030] In particular, if a vacation VC is scheduled after time T4 (or time T5), an earlier arrival time at point P2 leads to an extended stay at the travel destination. Therefore, if a vacation VC is scheduled after travel TR to point P2, schedule SC1_M is considered to be beneficial for a user US who wants to enjoy the trip to the fullest.

[0031] Also, the schedule SC1_M described in FIG. 2 is for the outward journey, but this schedule SC1_M can be applied to the return journey as well. For example, in the description of FIG. 1, the point P1 is the base of the travel destination (for example, the hotel where the user is staying), and the point P2 is the workplace or home of the user US. Also, assume that the same web conferences WM1 and WM2 as the example shown in FIG. 1 are scheduled. Then, when the schedule SC1_M is applied to the return journey, it becomes possible to participate in the web conferences WM1 and WM2 before arriving at the point P2 while adhering to the time when the user must arrive at the point P2. This makes it possible to delay the departure time from the point P1 from the initial schedule, leading to a further extension of the stay time at the travel destination. Therefore, it is considered that applying the schedule SC1_M to the outward and return journeys is particularly beneficial for the user US who wants to enjoy the trip.

[0032] However, the bottleneck in such a schedule SC1_M is the data communication environment during the trip. This is because the user US will be disadvantaged if he or she travels through an area with insufficient infrastructure for data communication during the time period when participation in the web conferences WM1 and WM2 is scheduled. Therefore, in the first embodiment, when generating candidates for a travel plan, information on the communication level CL in the area AR including the road from point P1 to point P2 (hereinafter also referred to as "communication level information CLV") is taken into consideration.

[0033] FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining an example of a candidate travel plan in which communication level information CLV is taken into consideration. In the example shown in FIG. 3, an example of an area AR including a road from point P1 to point P2 is shown. The road from point P1 to point P2 is a road on which a moving body MB can travel, and is exemplified by a road for vehicles registered in a database of a general car navigation system. In the first embodiment, a candidate route from point P1 to point P2 is generated using a known method. At least one candidate route from point P1 to point P2 is generated.

[0034] In the first embodiment, the area AR is further divided into a plurality of communication zones CD. In the example shown in FIG. 3, the area AR is divided into a mesh shape, and a communication level CL is set for each communication zone CD. The communication level CL can be set based on, for example, a combination of a history of data related to communication quality (e.g., radio wave reception strength, latency, throughput, etc.) while a dedicated mobile object for measuring communication quality is traveling and a history of location data of the mobile object. The history of data related to communication quality may be pre-processed using time elements such as the day of the week (weekday, holiday, etc.) and the time period (morning, afternoon, night). It is desirable that the specifications of the communication equipment of the dedicated mobile object for measurement are equivalent to those of the mobile object MB.

[0035] In the first embodiment, the communication level CL is set in at least two stages. When two stages of the communication level CL are set, the communication level CL is composed of, for example, a communication level (high communication level) at which participation in a web conference can be performed without problems, and a communication level (low communication level) at which this is not the case. When three stages of the communication level CL are set, the latter communication level (low communication level) is subdivided into a communication level (medium communication level) at which simple data communication can be performed without problems, and a communication level (low communication level) at which this is not the case.

[0036] In the first embodiment, a threshold Th of the communication level CL is further set. The management server MS applies this threshold Th to candidates of the route from point P1 to point P2, and sets candidates of the movement plan. The communication zones CD(2,2), CD(3,2), CD(4,3), and CD(4,4) shown in FIG. 3 are examples of communication zones CD having a communication level CL higher than the threshold Th. On the other hand, the communication zones CD(3,1), CD(4,1), and CD(4,2) are examples of communication zones CD having a communication level CL equal to or lower than the threshold Th.

[0037] A candidate MC1 for a movement plan is depicted in Fig. 3. This candidate MC1 is a candidate MC that passes through communication zones CD(2,2), CD(3,2), CD(4,2), CD(4,3), and CD(4,4). The transition of the communication level CL when the mobile unit MB moves according to the candidate MC1 is shown in the lower part of Fig. 3. As can be seen from the lower part, the communication level CL falls below the threshold Th during the time period when the mobile unit passes through the communication zone CD(4,2). The communication level CL exceeds the threshold Th during the time period when the mobile unit passes through other communication zones CD (such as communication zone (2,2)).

[0038] That is, candidate MC1 is a candidate generated by prohibiting mobile unit MB from being located in a communication zone CD having a communication level CL below the threshold Th during the time periods during which participation in web conferences WM1 and WM2 is scheduled (i.e., from time T1 to time T2, from time T3 to time T4). Candidate MC1 is also a candidate generated by allowing mobile unit MB to be located in a communication zone CD having a communication level CL below the threshold Th during the time periods excluding these time periods. By generating such candidate MC1, it is possible to realize the schedule SC1_M described in FIG. 2.

[0039] FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining another example of a candidate movement plan in which communication level information CLV is taken into consideration. In the example shown in FIG. 3, when generating candidates for a route from point P1 to point P2, communication points existing on the route are not taken into consideration. In contrast, in the example shown in FIG. 4, position information of a communication point (service area SA) existing in a communication zone CD(4,3) is taken into consideration. The candidate movement plan MC2 depicted in FIG. 4 is a candidate for stopping at the service area SA on the way to move TR from point P1 to point P2. It is assumed that the communication level CL in this service area SA exceeds a threshold value Th.

[0040] Candidate MC2 arrives at the service area SA before the time period during which participation in the web conference WM2 is scheduled (i.e., time T3 to time T4). Then, leaves the service area SA after this time period has passed. In other words, candidate MC2 stays in the service area SA during the time period during which participation in the web conference WM2 is scheduled. By staying in the service area SA, the arrival time (time T8) at point P2 may be later than that shown in FIG. 3. However, by continuing to stay in the service area SA throughout the time period during which participation in the web conference WM2 is scheduled, it is expected that data communication will be stable. Therefore, with such candidate MC2, like candidate MC1, it is possible to realize the schedule SC1_M described in FIG. 2.

[0041] 1-3. System configuration example Next, a configuration example of the movement plan proposal system and the movement system according to the first embodiment will be described.

[0042] 1-3-1. Management Server MS Configuration Example 5 is a diagram for explaining a configuration example of the management server MS. The configuration example shown in FIG. 5 includes a map DB (database) 11, a management DB 12, a communication device 13, and an information processing device .

[0043] Map information MAP and communication level information CLV are stored in map DB11. Examples of map information MAP include information on road positions, road shape information (e.g., types of curves and straight lines), and information on the positions of intersections and structures. Map information MAP may also include position information of public communication facilities (e.g., service areas SA). Map information MAP may also include information on the road surface shape (e.g., information on the presence or absence of bumps). Communication level information CLV is as described in FIG. 3. Map DB11 is formed in a predetermined storage device (e.g., a non-volatile recording medium such as a hard disk or a flash memory).

[0044] The management DB 12, like the map DB 11, is formed in a specified storage device. The management DB 12 stores schedule information SCH. The schedule information SCH includes information on the schedule of the user US for a certain period (for example, from the next day to one month ahead). The schedule information SCH is periodically acquired from a user interface UI (for example, a communication terminal carried by the user US). When there are multiple users US, the schedule information SCH is stored for each user US.

[0045] The management DB12 also stores mobile body information MBL. The mobile body information MBL is information for identifying a mobile body MB. The mobile body MB may be owned by a user US, or may be a shared body such as a rental car. The mobile body information MBL includes various information related to the mobile body MB, such as location information of the mobile body MB, specification information of communication equipment owned by the mobile body MB, and movement plan information. The movement plan information is generated when a candidate MC for a movement plan is accepted by the user US.

[0046] The communication device 13 connects to an external device via a communication network. The communication network is not particularly limited, and wired and wireless networks can be used. Examples of the communication network include an Internet line, a World Wide Web (WWW), a telephone line, a Local Area Network (LAN), a Storage Area Network (SAN), and a Delay Tolerant Network (DTN). Examples of wireless communication include Wireless Fidelity (WiFi) and Bluetooth (registered trademark). The wireless communication may be a form in which the management server MS directly communicates (Ad Hoc communication), or may be indirect communication via an access point. The communication destinations of the communication device 13 include a mobile body MB and a user interface UI. In communication with the mobile body MB, the communication device 13 transmits, for example, travel schedule information to the mobile body MB. In communication with the user interface UI, the communication device 13 transmits, for example, information on candidate MCs for a moving plan to the user interface UI.

[0047] The information processing device 14 is a computer for processing various information related to the generation of candidate MCs for a movement plan, the proposal of the candidate MCs to a user US, and the management of a moving body MB (management of operation according to the movement plan). The information processing device 14 includes at least one processor 14a and at least one memory 14b. The processor 14a includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit). The memory 14b is a volatile memory such as a DDR memory, and expands various programs used by the processor 14a and temporarily stores various information.

[0048] The processor 14a executes a program stored in the memory 14b to perform processing related to generating candidates MC for a movement plan and proposing them to the user US. The processor 14a also executes a program stored in the memory 27b to perform processing related to managing a moving body MB according to the movement plan (management of operation according to the movement plan). An example of the processing performed by the processor 14a will be described later.

[0049] 1-3-2. Example of mobile MB configuration 6 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a mobile object MB. The configuration example shown in FIG. 6 includes mobile equipment 2, web conference equipment 3, and deskwork equipment 4.

[0050] The mobile facility 2 is a facility for making the mobile body MB travel autonomously or travel based on remote assistance. In the example shown in Fig. 6, the mobile facility 2 includes a sensor group 21, a GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) receiver 22, a map DB 23, a communication device 24, a travel device 25, and a travel control device 26. The components such as the sensor group 21 and the travel control device 26 are connected, for example, by a predetermined network (for example, a CAN (Controller Area Network)).

[0051] Examples of the sensor group 21 include a surrounding situation sensor and a vehicle body status sensor. The surrounding situation sensor detects the surrounding situation of the moving body MB. The surrounding situation sensor includes a camera. The camera captures images of the surroundings of the moving body MB. The surrounding situation sensor may also include LiDAR (Laser Imaging Detection and Ranging) or radar. The vehicle body status sensor detects the state of the moving body MB. The state of the moving body MB includes the speed, acceleration, steering angle, yaw rate, etc. of the moving body MB. The sensor group 21 further includes a sensor that detects the remaining capacity of the moving body MB. The sensor group 23 transmits various information of the moving body MB to the cruise control device 26.

[0052] The GNSS receiver 22 is a device that receives signals from three or more artificial satellites. The GNSS receiver 22 acquires position information of the moving body MB. The GNSS receiver 22 may calculate the attitude (direction) of the moving body MB based on the acquired position information. The GNSS receiver 22 transmits the position information and attitude information to the cruise control device 26.

[0053] Map information is stored in the map DB 23. An example of the map information stored in the map DB 23 is the same as the map information MAP stored in the map DB 11. The map DB 23 does not need to be provided in the moving body MB. In this case, the moving body MB may obtain map information of the surroundings of the current position of the moving body MB from an external server (for example, a management server MS).

[0054] The communication device 24 performs wireless communication with a base station of a wireless network. Examples of communication standards for this wireless communication include mobile communication standards such as 4G, LTE, and 5G. The connection destinations of the communication device 24 include at least the management server MS. In communication with the management server MS, the communication device 24 transmits at least the position information of the moving object MB received from the driving control device 26 to the management server MS.

[0055] The destination of connection of the communication device 24 may include a user interface UI. In communication with the user interface UI, the communication device 24 may transmit location information of the mobile body MB to the user interface UI. When the mobile body MB is used for sharing, the communication device 24 may transmit ID information of the mobile body MB to the user interface UI.

[0056] When the moving body MB receives remote support, the connection destination of the communication device 24 may include a remote support device (not shown). In communication with the remote support device, the communication device 24 may transmit at least surrounding image information of the moving body MB to the remote support device, in addition to the position information of the moving body MB received from the travel control device 26. The communication device 24 may also receive remote support information from the remote support device. The remote support information is information for providing remote support to the moving body MB.

[0057] The traveling device 25 includes devices for accelerating, decelerating, and steering the moving body MB. The traveling device 25 includes, for example, a drive device, a steering device, and a brake device. The drive device drives the tires of the moving body MB. The steering device steers the tires of the moving body MB. The brake device applies a braking force to the moving body MB. The acceleration of the moving body MB is performed by controlling the drive device. The deceleration of the moving body MB is performed by controlling the brake device. If the drive device is a motor, the braking of the moving body MB may be performed by utilizing regenerative braking controlled by the motor. The steering of the moving body MB is performed by controlling the steering device.

[0058] The driving control device 26 is a computer for processing various information acquired by the moving body MB. The driving control device 26 includes at least one processor 26a and at least one memory 26b. The processor 26a includes a CPU. The memory 26b expands various programs used by the processor 26a and temporarily stores various information. The various information acquired by the driving control device 26 is stored in the memory 26b.

[0059] The processor 26a executes a program stored in the memory 26b to perform various controls related to the autonomous traveling of the mobile body MB. When the processor 26a receives travel plan information, the processor 26a controls the traveling device 25 to autonomously travel along a route included in the travel plan information. The processor 26a also executes a program stored in the memory 26b to determine whether remote assistance is necessary. When it is determined that remote assistance is necessary, the processor 26a generates a remote assistance request and transmits it to the remote assistance device via the communication device 24.

[0060] The web conference equipment 3 includes a communication equipment and a computer including a camera, a microphone, a speaker, a display, and a processing device. Typically, the computer constituting the web conference equipment 3 is a personal computer, a smartphone, or a tablet terminal on which a web conference program is installed. When the user US carries such a communication terminal, the web conference equipment 3 corresponds to an in-vehicle communication equipment that communicates with the communication terminal by wire or wirelessly.

[0061] The desk work facility 4 includes elements (furniture) necessary for performing desk work, such as a desk, chair, and lighting. The desk work facility 4 is installed in a corner of the interior of the mobile body MB. The functions and layout of the elements constituting the desk work facility 4 are not particularly limited. The desk work facility 4 is used, for example, for web conference facility 3. The desk work facility 4 may be used for local work involving data communication other than web conferences. The desk work facility 4 may be used for local work not involving data communication.

[0062] 1-4. Processing example by management server MS 7 is a flowchart for explaining an example of processing performed by the information processing device 14 (processor 14a) of the management server MS. The routine shown in FIG. 7 is executed repeatedly at a predetermined control period, for example.

[0063] In the routine shown in Fig. 7, first, schedule information SCH is acquired (step S11). As already explained, the schedule information SCH is information stored in the management DB 12, and includes information on the schedule of the user US for a certain period (for example, from the next day to the day one month ahead). If there are multiple users US, step S11 and the subsequent processes are performed for each user US.

[0064] Following the process of step S11, it is determined whether the SCH condition is satisfied (step S12). The SCH condition is a condition for determining whether to generate a candidate MC for a movement plan. Whether the SCH condition is satisfied is determined based on the schedule information SCH acquired in step S11. For example, when a movement TR from point P1 to point P2 is scheduled and participation in a web conference is scheduled before and after this movement TR, it is determined that the SCH condition is satisfied.

[0065] "Before or after the travel TR" is determined based on the scheduled start or end time of the travel TR. An example of "before the travel TR" is several hours to several tens of hours before the scheduled start time of the travel TR. An example of "after the travel TR" is several hours to several tens of hours after the scheduled end time of the travel TR. Note that an interval of several hours to several tens of hours is just an example, and "before or after the travel TR" may be determined at an interval of several tens of minutes to an hour. If the determination result of step S12 is negative, it is determined that there is no need to generate candidate MCs for the travel plan, and the current process ends.

[0066] If the determination result in step S12 is positive, the communication level information CLV is acquired (step S13). The communication level information CLV is acquired based on the position information of points P1 and P2 included in the schedule information acquired in step S11. For example, an area AR including a road from point P1 to point P2 is identified. The area AR is identified, for example, by generating at least one candidate route from point P1 to point P2 and extracting an area on a map including at least one candidate route. Once the area AR is identified, the map DB11 is referenced using the position information of the area AR. As a result, information on each communication level CL of the communication zone CD included in the area AR (i.e., the communication level information CLV) is acquired.

[0067] In addition, when generating route candidates, it is desirable to generate route candidates that pass through smooth roads with few bumps based on information on road surface shapes included in the map information MAP. Generating route candidates that pass through smooth roads ensures indoor quietness during the web conference. If the roads to be taken during the time when participation in the web conference is scheduled are at least smooth roads, it is expected that indoor quietness during the web conference will be ensured.

[0068] Following the process of step S13, candidate MCs for the movement plan are generated (step S14). The candidate MCs are generated, for example, by predicting the time period during which the mobile unit MB passes through each communication zone CD, assuming that the mobile unit MB continues to move at a legal speed (or at a constant speed faster than the legal speed) along at least one of the above-mentioned candidate routes. Since the information on each communication level CL of the communication zone CD is acquired by the process of step S13, when the time period during which the mobile unit MB passes through each communication zone CD is predicted, each communication level CL in the predicted time period is identified.

[0069] Next, each communication level CL in the predicted time period is compared with the time period in which participation in the web conference is scheduled, and route candidates in which the mobile unit MB is located in a communication area CD having a high communication level in the time period in which participation in the web conference is scheduled are extracted. When such route candidates (hereinafter also referred to as "desired route candidates") can be extracted, a candidate MC for the movement plan is generated by combining the extracted desired route candidates with the predicted time period in which each communication area CD is passed.

[0070] When the desired route candidate can be extracted, the predicted passage time period of the communication zone CD may be corrected so that the mobile unit MB is located in a single communication zone CD during the time period when the mobile unit MB is scheduled to participate in the web conference. If the route candidate after the predicted passage time period is corrected still corresponds to the desired route candidate, the route candidate may be combined with the predicted passage time period of each communication zone CD to generate a candidate MC for the movement plan.

[0071] If a desired route candidate cannot be extracted, the predicted passage time zone may be modified so as to extend the stay time in the communication zone CD having a high communication level. If the stay time in the communication zone CD having a high communication level is extended, the predicted passage time zone of the communication zone CD that is passed after passing through this communication zone CD is shifted to a later time zone by the extended stay time. If a desired route candidate can be extracted by performing such modification, a candidate MC for a movement plan is generated by combining this route candidate with the predicted passage time zone of each communication zone CD. The stay time in the communication zone CD having a high communication level is extended, for example, by modifying the route so that the mobile unit MB stops at a communication base (for example, the service area SA described in FIG. 2) existing in this communication zone CD.

[0072] The predicted passage time period is repeatedly corrected until the arrival time at the second location passes the original arrival time included in the schedule information SCH, or the predicted passage time period is repeatedly corrected until the number of corrections to the route candidates that are the subject of correction reaches a predetermined number.

[0073] The process of step S14 is performed once for at least one route candidate generated when identifying the area AR. When the predicted passage time period is corrected, the process of step S14 may be repeated until a predetermined time has elapsed or the number of corrections to the at least one route candidate reaches a predetermined number.

[0074] Following the process of step S14, it is determined whether or not a candidate MC has been extracted (step S15). For example, if a predetermined time has elapsed without a desired route candidate being extracted in the process of step S14, a positive determination result is output in the process of step S15. In this case, the process of step S16 is performed.

[0075] In the process of step S16, a part of the schedule information SCH is changed. The schedule information SCH is changed by shifting the original time period in which participation in the web conference is scheduled to a later or earlier time period. When the process of step S16 is performed, the process of step S14 is performed. Note that repeating the processes of steps S14 to S16 many times leads to an increase in the processing load. Therefore, it is desirable to set an upper limit (for example, two times) on the number of times the process of step S16 is repeated for the candidate route that is the subject of the change.

[0076] If a negative judgment result is output in the processing of step S15, the candidate MC generated in the processing of step S14 is transmitted to the user US (e.g., a user interface UI) (step S17). If multiple candidate MCs are generated in the processing of step S14, all of these candidate MCs are transmitted to the user US. From among these candidate MCs, the one with the shortest ride time to the mobile body MB or the one with the earliest arrival time at the second location may be selected and transmitted to the user US. If the original time zone has been changed by the processing of step S16, it is desirable to transmit a proposal for schedule change in addition to the candidate MC to the user US.

[0077] Following the processing of step S17, it is determined whether the user US has accepted the candidate MC (step S18). For example, if an acceptance signal is received from the user interface UI, it is determined that the user US has accepted the candidate MC. If the result of the determination in step S18 is negative, it is determined that the candidate MC has not been adopted, and the current processing ends.

[0078] If the result of the determination in step S18 is positive, it is determined that the candidate MC has been adopted as a formal moving plan. Therefore, in this case, moving plan information is generated from the candidate MC and transmitted to the user US (e.g., the user interface UI) and the moving body MB (step S19). In the process of step S19, the moving plan information is also stored in the management DB12.

[0079] Effects According to the first embodiment described above, when a movement TR from a point P1 to a point P2 is planned, and participation in a web conference is planned before and after the movement TR, a candidate MC of a movement plan that realizes participation in the web conference during the movement TR by the mobile body MB can be proposed to the user US. This candidate MC takes into account information on the communication level CL in the area AR including the road from the point P1 to the point P2, and is designed to avoid a situation in which the data communication environment is degraded during the time period when participation in the web conference is planned. Therefore, it is beneficial for the user US that the candidate MC is proposed. In addition, by accepting the candidate MC by the user US, it becomes possible to realize stress-free participation in a web conference during the movement by the mobile body MB, and it is also possible to advance the arrival time at the point P2.

[0080] 2. Second embodiment The second embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to Figures 8 to 10. Note that descriptions of contents that overlap with the contents of the first embodiment will be omitted as appropriate.

[0081] 2-1. Overview Fig. 8 is a diagram for explaining an overview of the second embodiment. Fig. 8 shows an example of another schedule SC2 of a user US. A part of the schedule SC2 is common to the schedule SC1 described in Fig. 1. The difference from the schedule SC1 is that desk work DW is scheduled for the time slot from time T9 to T10, and a web conference WM3 is scheduled for the time slot from time T11 to T12.

[0082] General desk work includes local work involving data communication other than web conferences, and local work not involving data communication. An example of the former is work involving access to a local server (e.g., a mail server). An example of the latter is work using an application on a personal computer. In the second embodiment, these local works are defined as desk work DW. The definition of web conference WM3 is the same as that of web conferences WM1 and WM2.

[0083] 2-2. Travel Plan In the second embodiment, a case is considered in which a user US performing desk work DW wishes to concentrate on the desk work DW. In this case, the user US may intentionally cut off data communication before starting the desk work DW and restore it after the desk work DW ends. That is, in this case, the user US is considered not to actively communicate data during the desk work DW. Therefore, in the second embodiment, a candidate MC for a movement plan passing through a communication area CD having a communication level CL below a threshold Th during a time period in which the desk work DW is scheduled is generated.

[0084] Fig. 9 is a diagram for explaining an example of candidates MC for a travel plan generated in the second embodiment. The area AR and multiple communication areas CD shown in Fig. 9 are the same as those in the example shown in Fig. 3 or 4. As in the example shown in Fig. 3 or 4, in the example shown in Fig. 9, at least one candidate route from point P1 to point P2 is generated.

[0085] A candidate MC3 for the movement plan is depicted in Fig. 9. This candidate MC3 is a candidate MC that passes through communication zones CD(2,2), CD(2,3), CD(3,3), CD(4,3), and CD(4,4). The transition of the communication level CL when the moving body MB moves according to the candidate MC3 is shown in the lower part of Fig. 9. As can be seen from the lower part, the communication level CL falls below the threshold Th during the time period when the moving body MB passes through the communication zones CD(2,3) and CD(3,3). The communication level CL exceeds the threshold Th during the time period when the moving body MB passes through the other communication zones CD (communication zone (2,2), etc.).

[0086] That is, candidate MC3 is a candidate generated by prohibiting mobile unit MB from being located in a communication area CD having a communication level CL below threshold Th during the time period when participation in web conference WM3 is scheduled (i.e., from time T11 to time T12). Candidate MC3 is also a candidate generated by allowing mobile unit MB to be located in a communication area CD having a communication level CL below threshold Th during the time period when desk work DW is scheduled (i.e., from time T9 to time T10).

[0087] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining another example of a candidate MC for a movement plan generated in the second embodiment. The route from point P1 to point P2 of candidate MC4 shown in FIG. 10 is the same as that of candidate MC3 shown in FIG. 9. The difference from candidate M3 is the transition of the communication level CL. As can be seen from the lower part of FIG. 10, in candidate MC4, the communication level CL falls below the threshold Th during the time period when desk work DW is scheduled (i.e., from time T9 to time T10). In other words, candidate MC4 is a candidate generated by prohibiting a moving object MB from being located in a communication area CD having a communication level CL exceeding the threshold Th during the time period when desk work DW is scheduled.

[0088] By generating the candidate MC3 or MC4, the same effect as that of the first embodiment can be obtained. In addition, by generating the candidate MC3 or MC4, it becomes possible to perform desk work DW inside the room of the moving body MB. It is expected that the user US will perform the desk work DW using the desk work facility 4 shown in FIG. 6.

[0089] In the second embodiment, consider a case where candidate MC3 or MC4 is adopted as a formal travel plan by user US. In this case, user US may perform desk work DW as scheduled, and may also cut off data communication during desk work DW. Therefore, in the second embodiment, a proposal for data communication is made to user US before the time period when desk work DW is scheduled and after this time period has passed.

[0090] The suggestion of data communication is made, for example, by sending a predetermined message from the management server MS to the user interface UI. Examples of the predetermined message include "Desk work time will start soon. We recommend that you use data communication" and "Desk work time has ended. We recommend that you use data communication."

[0091] 2-3. Example of processing by management server MS Fig. 11 is a flowchart for explaining an example of processing performed by the information processing device 14 (processor 14a) of the management server MS. The routine shown in Fig. 11 is repeatedly executed at a predetermined control period, for example, during the execution of a movement plan adopted by the user US.

[0092] In the routine shown in Fig. 11, first, schedule information SCH and moving body information MBL are acquired (step S21). These pieces of information are acquired from the management DB 12. The schedule information SCH to be acquired includes the current time. The moving body information MBL to be acquired is information on a moving plan that is being executed at the current time.

[0093] Following the process of step S21, it is determined whether or not desk work DW is scheduled (step S22). Whether or not desk work DW is scheduled is determined based on the schedule information SCH acquired in step S21. If the determination result of step S21 is negative, it is determined that there is no need to propose data communication, and the current process is terminated.

[0094] If the determination result in step S22 is positive, it is determined whether the time slot during which the desk work DW is scheduled is approaching (step S23). For example, if the time is a predetermined time (several tens of minutes to an hour) before the time slot during which the desk work DW is scheduled, it is determined that the time slot during which the desk work DW is scheduled is approaching. The process of step S23 is repeatedly executed until a positive determination result is output.

[0095] In the process of step S23, it may be determined whether or not the communication level CL of the communication area CD in which the mobile unit MB is currently located exceeds the threshold value Th, based on the location information and movement plan information included in the mobile unit information MBL. If it is confirmed that the communication level CL exceeds the threshold value Th, the user US can perform data communication without stress in accordance with the process of the next step S24.

[0096] If the result of the determination in step S23 is positive, a proposal for data communication is sent to the user US (for example, the user interface UI) (step S24). Examples of proposals for data communication have already been described.

[0097] Following the process of step S24, it is determined whether the time period during which the desk work DW is scheduled has ended (step S25). For example, if the time period during which the desk work DW is scheduled has elapsed, it is determined that the time period during which the desk work DW is scheduled has ended. The process of step S25 is repeatedly executed until a positive determination result is output.

[0098] As with the processing of step S23, when processing step S25, it may be determined whether or not the communication level CL of the communication area CD in which the mobile unit MB is currently located exceeds the threshold value Th based on the location information and movement plan information contained in the mobile unit information MBL.

[0099] If the result of the determination in step S25 is positive, a proposal for data communication is sent to the user US (for example, the user interface UI) (step S26). Examples of proposals for data communication have already been described.

[0100] 2-4.Effects According to the second embodiment described above, it is possible to propose to the user US a candidate MC for a movement plan for performing desk work DW inside the room of the mobile body MB. This candidate MC takes into consideration information on the communication level CL in the area AR including the road from point P1 to point P2, and allows passing through a communication area CD having a communication level CL below the threshold Th during the time period when the desk work DW is scheduled. Therefore, in this case, it is expected that the degree of freedom in generating the candidate MC for the movement plan will be increased. On the other hand, if passing through a communication area CD having a communication level CL above the threshold Th is prohibited during the time period when the desk work DW is scheduled, it is possible to propose a candidate MC that is useful to the user US who wishes to concentrate on the desk work DW. In addition, by accepting the candidate MC by the user US, it is possible to perform the desk work DW without stress while moving by the mobile body MB. [Explanation of symbols]

[0101] 3. Web conferencing equipment 4. Desk work facilities 14 Information processing equipment 14a Processor 14b Memory AR Region CD Communication Area CL Communication Level DW Desk work MB Mobile MC, MC1, MC2, MC3, MC4 Candidates for Movement Plans MS Management Server P1, P2 points SC1, SC2 Schedule Th Threshold TR move UI User Interface US User WM1, WM2 Web Conference CLV Communication Level Information MAP Map information MBL Mobile Information SCH Schedule Information

Claims

1. 1. A method for suggesting a travel plan to a user using a mobile device having a web conferencing facility, comprising: obtaining information about the user's schedule, including travel from a first location to a second location and participation in a web conference before and after the travel from the first location to the second location; acquiring information on a communication level in an area including a road connecting the first point to the second point; generating candidate travel plans for the mobile object to travel from the first location to the second location based on the schedule information and the communication level information, the candidate travel plans including a candidate that realizes participation in the web conference using the web conference equipment during the travel from the first location to the second location, and a candidate that prohibits the mobile object from being located in a communication area having a communication level lower than a threshold during a time period when participation in the web conference is scheduled; transmitting the candidate movement plan to a terminal of the user; A movement plan suggestion method comprising:

2. 2. The method of claim 1 , The moving body further includes a deskwork facility, The schedule further includes performing desk work before and after the movement from the first location to the second location; The candidates for the movement plan include a candidate in which the mobile object is allowed to be located in a communication area having a communication level lower than the threshold during a time period in which the desk work is scheduled to be performed. A movement plan proposing method comprising:

3. 2. The method of claim 1 , The moving body further includes a deskwork facility, The schedule further includes performing desk work before and after the movement from the first location to the second location; The candidates for the movement plan include a candidate in which the mobile object is prohibited from being located in a communication area having a communication level higher than the threshold during a time period in which the desk work is scheduled to be performed. A movement plan proposing method comprising:

4. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, The step of generating candidate movement plans includes: determining whether a candidate in which the mobile unit is located in a communication area having a communication level higher than the threshold during an original time period in which the mobile unit is scheduled to participate in the web conference has been extracted; a step of changing the original time period when it is determined that the candidate was not extracted in the original time period, and determining whether or not a candidate in which the mobile unit is located within a communication area having a communication level higher than the threshold is extracted in the changed time period; generating a candidate in which the mobile object is prohibited from being located in a communication area having a communication level lower than the threshold value during the changed time period when it is determined that the candidate has been extracted during the changed time period; Including, In the step of transmitting the candidate travel plan to the user's terminal, a change to the original time zone is proposed to the user. A movement plan proposing method comprising:

5. An apparatus for proposing a travel plan to a user using a mobile object having a web conference facility, comprising: A memory in which various information is stored; A processor for processing the various information; Equipped with The various information includes information on the user's schedule, including movement from a first location to a second location and participation in a web conference before and after the movement from the first location to the second location, and information on a communication level in an area including a road leading from the first location to the second location; The processor, generating a candidate movement plan for when the moving object moves from the first location to the second location based on the schedule information and the communication level information; the candidate travel plans include a candidate that realizes participation in the web conference using the web conference equipment during the travel from the first location to the second location, and a candidate that prohibits the mobile body from being located in a communication area having a communication level lower than a threshold during a time period when participation in the web conference is scheduled, Transmitting the candidate travel plan to the user's terminal. A movement plan proposal device characterized by:

6. A mobile body including a web conference facility, a traveling device, and a traveling control device; A management server including a memory in which various information is stored and a processor for processing the various information, the management server proposing a movement plan using the moving object to a user; A system comprising: The various information includes information on the user's schedule, including movement from a first location to a second location and participation in a web conference before and after the movement from the first location to the second location, and information on a communication level in an area including a road leading from the first location to the second location; The processor, generating a candidate movement plan for when the moving object moves from the first location to the second location based on the schedule information and the communication level information; the candidate travel plans include a candidate that realizes participation in the web conference using the web conference equipment during the travel from the first location to the second location, and a candidate that prohibits the mobile body from being located in a communication area having a communication level lower than a threshold during a time period when participation in the web conference is scheduled, Transmitting the candidate movement plan to a terminal of the user; If the candidate movement plan is accepted by the user, transmitting movement plan information generated based on the candidate movement plan to the mobile unit; The travel control device controls the travel device based on the movement plan information. A mobile system comprising:

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