Entrance / exit management system and entrance / exit management program

Abstract

To provide an entry / exit management system for simple and reliable cashless payment of parking fees at parking facilities.SOLUTION: An entry / exit control system 30 includes a detection unit 311, a vehicle entry / exit control unit 312, an acquisition unit 313, a generation unit 314, and a registration unit 315. The detection unit 311 detects that a vehicle enters a predetermined controlled area or that a vehicle is exiting a controlled area. The vehicle entry / exit control unit 312 is configured to be able to control the entry and exit of the vehicle. The acquisition unit 313 acquires identification information including at least one of the following: unique information of an in-vehicle device installed in the vehicle, unique information of an ETC card inserted into the in-vehicle device, and a vehicle number. The generation unit 314 generates unique entry information associated with a parking ticket issued for the vehicle entering the controlled area. The registration unit 315 registers the vehicle identification information in association with the entry information generated by the generation unit.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an entrance / exit management system and an entrance / exit management program. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, various methods for cashless payment of parking fees have been proposed. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a technology in which parking fees are calculated based on data on the vehicle's entry time and departure time, transmitted to a website server, and payment of the parking fee is accepted on the website. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2003-256995 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, in the technology described in Patent Document 1, when settling parking fees, the user confirms the parking booth used and inputs it into a website to execute the payment process. This is inconvenient for users, as it requires the user to check the booth number and input it into the website every time they settle the parking fee. In addition, if the user is unable to check the booth number due to nighttime or bad weather, the vehicle cannot be properly removed, which is a problem. Furthermore, if the user makes a mistake in checking or inputting the booth number, not only will the vehicle be unable to be removed, but further problems such as erroneous billing may occur.

[0005] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above-mentioned problems. Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide an entrance / exit management system and an entrance / exit management program for easily and reliably executing cashless payment of parking fees in a parking lot. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The above object can be achieved by the following means.

[0007] The entry / exit management system includes a detection unit, a vehicle entry / exit restriction unit, an acquisition unit, a generation unit, and a registration unit. The detection unit detects that a vehicle is entering a specified controlled area or that a vehicle is attempting to exit the controlled area. The vehicle entry / exit restriction unit is configured to be able to restrict the entry of a vehicle into the controlled area and the exit of a vehicle from the controlled area. The acquisition unit acquires identification information including at least one of unique information of an on-board device installed in a vehicle that is entering or exiting the controlled area, unique information of an ETC card inserted in the on-board device, and a vehicle number. The generation unit generates unique entry information in association with a parking ticket issued for a vehicle that is attempting to enter the controlled area. The registration unit registers the identification information of the vehicle and the entry information generated by the generation unit in association with each other.

[0008] The entry / exit management program is configured to cause a computer to execute a process including a detection step, a vehicle entry / exit restriction step, an acquisition step, a generation step, and a registration step. The detection step detects that a vehicle is entering a specified controlled area or that a vehicle is attempting to exit the controlled area. The vehicle entry / exit restriction step restricts the entry of vehicles into the controlled area and the exit of vehicles from the controlled area. The acquisition step acquires identification information including at least one of unique information of an on-board device installed in a vehicle entering the controlled area, unique information of an ETC card inserted in the on-board device, and a vehicle number. The generation step generates unique entry information in association with a parking ticket issued for a vehicle attempting to enter the controlled area. The registration step registers the vehicle identification information and the entry information generated by the generation step in association with each other. Effect of the Invention

[0009] According to the entry / exit management system of the present invention, identification information including at least one of the unique information of the on-board device installed in the vehicle that is entering or leaving the controlled area, the unique information of the ETC card inserted in the on-board device, and the vehicle number is acquired, unique entry information is generated in association with a parking ticket issued for the vehicle that is entering the controlled area, and the identification information of the vehicle and the entry information generated by the generation unit are associated and registered. As a result, at least one of the unique information of the on-board device installed in the vehicle that has entered the parking area, the unique information of the ETC card, and the vehicle number can be associated and registered with the unique entry information generated in association with the parking ticket issued for the vehicle that is entering the controlled area. Therefore, based on the entry information generated in association with the parking ticket, which is information that is easy for the user to recognize, the unique information of the on-board device, the unique information of the ETC card, and the vehicle number can be easily referenced and used, so that cashless settlement of parking fees in a parking lot can be easily and reliably performed. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a system according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 2A] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of an acquisition device. [Figure 2B] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of a detection device. [Figure 2C] 1 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of an entrance / exit control device. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of an information terminal. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of a server. [Diagram 5] 2 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of a control unit of the server. [Figure 6] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of information stored in a server. [Figure 7] 1 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of an ETC vehicle-mounted device. [Figure 8]FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of a payment system. [Figure 9] 13 is a flowchart showing the procedure of an entrance / exit management process executed by the server. [Figure 10] 13 is a flowchart showing the procedure of an entrance / exit management process executed by the server. [Figure 11] 11 is a subroutine flowchart showing the procedure of the process of registering customer information and identification information in association with each other using inventory information shown in step S110 of FIG. 10 as an association key. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0011] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the attached drawings. In the description of the drawings, the same elements are given the same reference numerals, and duplicated description will be omitted. In addition, the dimensional ratios of the drawings may be exaggerated for the convenience of explanation and may differ from the actual ratios.

[0012] (Overall system configuration) FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0013] As shown in Fig. 1, the system 1 is composed of an in-venue system 10, an information terminal 20, a server 30, an ETC vehicle-mounted device 40, and a payment system 50. The in-venue system 10, the information terminal 20, the server 30, and the payment system 50 are connected via a network, and each component can communicate with each other using various wired or wireless communication methods. The ETC vehicle-mounted device 40 can wirelessly communicate with an acquisition device 110 of the in-venue system 10 using a predetermined communication standard such as DSRC (Dedicated Short Range Communication).

[0014] The in-venue system 10 is installed in a controlled area such as a paid parking lot. The in-venue system 10 includes an acquisition device 110, a detection device 120, and an entrance / exit control device 140.

[0015] The acquisition device 110 is equipped with an ETC antenna and performs wireless communication with an ETC vehicle-mounted unit 40 mounted on a vehicle that is about to enter or exit the controlled area using a communication standard such as DSRC. The acquisition device 110 also has a camera and takes images of vehicles entering or exiting the controlled area.

[0016] The detection device 120 includes various sensors and detects when a vehicle enters or leaves a parking area.

[0017] The entrance / exit control device 140 is, for example, an entrance / exit gate provided at the entrance / exit of a controlled area, and has an entrance / exit control unit that can control the entry of vehicles into the controlled area and the exit of vehicles from the controlled area. The entrance / exit control device 140 also includes a ticket issuing device for issuing parking tickets and a payment device for settling parking fees in cash or the like.

[0018] The information terminal 20 is a terminal for a user to register payment information, etc. The information terminal 20 is, for example, a terminal such as a smartphone used by a driver of a vehicle. The information terminal 20 communicates with a server 30, etc. via a network.

[0019] The server 30 transmits and receives various information between each component of the in-venue system 10, the information terminal 20, the payment system 50, and the like.

[0020] The ETC vehicle-mounted device 40 is attached to a vehicle and communicates wirelessly with the acquisition device 110 located within a predetermined distance. The ETC vehicle-mounted device 40 acquires various information from an inserted ETC card and transmits it to the acquisition device 110.

[0021] The settlement system 50 is a system installed in a settlement organization (financial institution) such as a bank or a credit card company, or in a settlement agent that performs various operations for making settlements at such settlement organizations.

[0022] In this embodiment, an example will be described in which the server 30 constitutes the entrance / exit management system. Note that the processing executed by the server 30 may be executed by other components such as the acquisition device 110 and the detection device 120. In this case, the components constitute the entrance / exit management system. Also, the server 30 and the other components may operate in cooperation with each other, and the server 30 and the other components may constitute the entrance / exit management system.

[0023] Each component will be described in detail below.

[0024] (Acquisition device 110) FIG. 2A is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the acquisition device.

[0025] 2A, the acquisition device 110 includes a control unit 111, a storage unit 112, a communication unit 113, an ETC antenna 114, and a camera 115. The components are connected to each other via a bus so as to be able to communicate with each other. Also, the components may be connected to the server 30 directly via a network without using a bus.

[0026] The control unit 111 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and controls the above-mentioned components as well as the components of the in-venue system 10 and executes various types of calculation processing in accordance with a program.

[0027] The storage unit 112 includes a ROM (Read Only Memory) that stores various programs and data in advance, a RAM (Random Access Memory) that temporarily stores programs and data as a working area, and a hard disk that stores various programs and data.

[0028] The communication unit 113 includes an interface for communicating with other terminals or devices via a network. The communication unit 113 transmits and receives various data to and from the server 30, for example.

[0029] The ETC antenna 114 is configured to perform wireless communication with the ETC vehicle-mounted unit 40 according to a predetermined communication standard. The acquisition device 110 acquires an in-vehicle unit ID, represented by a Wireless Call Number (WCN), which is unique information for identifying the ETC vehicle-mounted unit 40, from the ETC vehicle-mounted unit 40 via the ETC antenna 114. The acquisition device 110 also acquires an ETC card number, which is unique information for identifying an ETC card inserted into the ETC vehicle-mounted unit 40, from the ETC vehicle-mounted unit 40 via the ETC antenna 114. The ETC card number is acquired in an encrypted state, and may be decrypted before being transmitted to the upper server 30, for example.

[0030] Camera 115 captures images of vehicles entering and exiting the controlled area. By analyzing the images captured by camera 115, information indicating, for example, the vehicle number (vehicle number plate) of the vehicle is obtained.

[0031] (Detection device 120) FIG. 2B is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the detection device.

[0032] 2B, the detection device 120 includes a control unit 121, a storage unit 122, a communication unit 123, and a detection unit 124. The components are connected to each other via a bus so as to be able to communicate with each other. In addition, when the detection device 120 is a device that does not include the control unit 121, the storage unit 122, etc., the detection unit 124 may be configured to be connected to the control unit 111 of the acquisition device 110.

[0033] The control unit 121, the storage unit 122, and the communication unit 123 of the detection device 120 are similar to the corresponding components of the acquisition device 110, and therefore a duplicated description will be omitted.

[0034] The detection unit 124 is configured to detect whether a vehicle is entering a controlled area or exiting a controlled area, and may be configured with various sensors such as a loop coil, a laser lidar (LiDAR: Light Detection and Ranging), a camera, etc. Each of the above-mentioned various sensors may be used alone, or multiple sensors may be used in combination. The detection unit 124 may also be configured to be capable of detecting whether a vehicle has entered a controlled area or exited from a controlled area.

[0035] For example, when a loop coil that electromagnetically detects the approach of a vehicle is used as the detection unit 124, the loop coil is placed, for example, under the roadway through which a vehicle passes when entering or exiting a controlled area. For example, by placing a plurality of loop coils along the roadway and checking the timing and order in which each loop coil detects the passage of a vehicle, it is possible to determine whether a vehicle is entering or exiting a controlled area. For example, when one loop coil is placed at a first position located inside the controlled area and one at a second position located outside the controlled area, it is possible to determine that a vehicle is entering if the loop coil at the second position detects first, and to determine that a vehicle is exiting if the loop coil at the first position detects first, based on the timing at which the two loop coils detect the passage of a vehicle.

[0036] Furthermore, when a laser lidar is used as the detection unit 124, the laser lidar is installed at a position that includes in its detection range vehicles entering or exiting the controlled area. By analyzing the image information acquired by the laser lidar, it is possible to detect that a vehicle is about to enter or exit the controlled area.

[0037] Furthermore, when a camera is used as the detection unit 124, the camera is installed in a position that includes in its shooting range vehicles entering or exiting the controlled area. By analyzing images (video) continuously shot by the camera, it is possible to detect that a vehicle is about to enter or exit the controlled area. Image (video) recognition can be performed using known techniques, such as background subtraction or a method using machine learning.

[0038] The sensors that can be used as the detection unit 124 are not limited to the above examples, and may be, for example, a contact sensor that comes into contact with a vehicle entering or exiting a controlled area to detect the passage and direction of the vehicle, or a weight sensor that detects the passage and direction of the vehicle based on the weight of the passing vehicle, etc. Alternatively, an infrared sensor, sonic sensor, geomagnetic sensor, etc. provided at a position capable of detecting vehicles entering or exiting a controlled area may be used.

[0039] (Entry / Exit Control Device 140) FIG. 2C is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the entrance / exit control device.

[0040] 2C, the entrance / exit control device 140 includes a control unit 141, a communication unit 142, an entrance / exit control unit 143, a ticket issuing unit 144, and a settlement unit 145. The components are connected to each other via a bus so as to be able to communicate with each other. In addition, when the entrance / exit control device 140 does not include the control unit 141 or the communication unit 142, the entrance / exit control unit 143 may be configured to be connected to a control device of the acquisition device 110.

[0041] The control unit 141 and communication unit 142 of the entrance / exit control device 140 are similar to the corresponding configurations of the acquisition device 110, so duplicated explanations will be omitted.

[0042] The entry / exit restriction unit 143 is a component for restricting the entry and exit of vehicles into a controlled area. The entry / exit restriction unit 143 is configured, for example, by a gate or bar that is placed at the entrance and exit of the controlled area and operates to block or permit the passage of the vehicle. For example, when the entry and exit of a vehicle into the controlled area is permitted, the entry / exit restriction unit 143 permits the vehicle to enter and exit the controlled area, and restricts the entry and exit of the vehicle again after the vehicle has entered and exited. Note that the method of realizing the entry / exit restriction unit 143 is not limited to the above example, and may be realized by any configuration as long as it is a configuration that can restrict the entry and exit of a vehicle.

[0043] The ticket issuing unit 144 is a device for issuing parking tickets for vehicles permitted to enter the controlled area. The ticket issuing unit 144 outputs, by printing or the like, the entry information generated in association with the parking ticket to be issued or a one-dimensional barcode or a two-dimensional barcode associated with the entry information on the parking ticket, and then issues the parking ticket.

[0044] The settlement unit 145 is a settlement machine for carrying out settlement processing (payment processing) of the fee charged to the vehicle user in cash or the like. The settlement unit 145 is composed of, for example, a reader (camera or the like) for acquiring parking entry information by reading a two-dimensional barcode or the like printed on the parking ticket, a display for displaying the amount of the fee, a deposit unit for accepting the insertion of cash, a withdrawal unit for returning change or the like, and the like. The settlement unit 145 may also carry out settlement processing by accepting input of prepaid cards, credit cards, point cards, various types of electronic money, codes for various code payments, and the like as payment means instead of cash.

[0045] (Information terminal 20) FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the information terminal.

[0046] 3, the information terminal 20 includes a control unit 21, a storage unit 22, a communication unit 23, a display unit 24, and an operation reception unit 25. The components are connected to each other via a bus so as to be able to communicate with each other. The control unit 21, the storage unit 22, and the communication unit 23 of the information terminal 20 are similar to the corresponding configurations of the acquisition device 110, and therefore, redundant explanations will be omitted.

[0047] Display unit 24 includes an LCD (liquid crystal display), an organic EL display, etc., and displays various information. Operation reception unit 25 includes a touch sensor, a pointing device such as a mouse, a keyboard, etc., and receives various operations from the user. Display unit 24 and operation reception unit 25 may form a touch panel by superimposing a touch sensor as operation reception unit 25 on the display surface as display unit 24.

[0048] (Server 30) Fig. 4 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the server, Fig. 5 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of a control unit of the server, and Fig. 6 is a diagram showing an example of information stored in the server.

[0049] 4, the server 30 includes a control unit 31, a storage unit 32, and a communication unit 33. The components are connected to each other via a bus so as to be able to communicate with each other. The control unit 31, the storage unit 32, and the communication unit 33 of the server 30 are similar to the corresponding configurations of the acquisition device 110, and therefore redundant explanations will be omitted.

[0050] 5, the control unit 31 of the server 30 loads a program and executes processing to function as a detection unit 311, a vehicle entry / exit regulation unit 312, an acquisition unit 313, a generation unit 314, a registration unit 315, a reception unit 316, an issuance control unit 317, and a guidance unit 318. The control unit 31 may also be configured to distribute some of its functions to control units in each component of the in-venue system 10.

[0051] The detection unit 311 detects, based on the detection result of the detection device 120, that a vehicle is entering a predetermined controlled area or that a vehicle is attempting to leave a controlled area.

[0052] The vehicle entry / exit restriction unit 312 transmits control instructions to control the entry / exit restriction device 140, thereby restricting the entry of vehicles into and exit from the controlled area, or lifting the restriction to permit the entry of vehicles into and exit from the controlled area.

[0053] The acquisition unit 313 acquires from the acquisition device 110 identification information including at least one of the unique information (vehicle ID) of the ETC vehicle unit 40 installed in a vehicle entering the controlled area, the unique information (ETC card number) of the ETC card inserted into the ETC vehicle unit 40, and the vehicle number of the vehicle.

[0054] The generating unit 314 generates unique parking entry information in association with a parking ticket issued for a vehicle attempting to enter a controlled area. The parking entry information is, for example, composed of a numeric string or a character string, and is generated so as to be unique in the controlled area.

[0055] The registration unit 315 registers the vehicle identification information and the inventory information generated by the generation unit 314 in association with each other.

[0056] The reception unit 316 receives input of warehousing information from the vehicle user, and also receives input of customer information including information (payment information) regarding the payment method selected by the person who bears the fee to be charged to the vehicle or the vehicle user.

[0057] The issuance control unit 317 controls the issuance of parking tickets issued to vehicles entering the controlled area. When the detection unit 311 detects that a vehicle is about to exit the controlled area, the issuance control unit 317 controls so as not to issue a parking ticket if customer information is registered in association with the vehicle identification information acquired by the acquisition unit 313 and payment processing can be performed using payment information included in the customer information.

[0058] When the detection unit 311 detects that a vehicle is about to exit a controlled area, and customer information is not registered in association with the identification information of the vehicle acquired by the acquisition unit 313, the guidance unit 318 guides the user to register customer information.

[0059] Server 30, as reception unit 316, provides a dedicated web page that the user can access using information terminal 20 in order to associate and register the above information based on instructions from the user. The dedicated web page is provided, for example, using a different URL for each parking lot. For example, when the user's information terminal 20 connects to a wireless LAN network provided in the parking lot, the web page of that URL is set to be displayed on information terminal 20. This allows users who use the parking lot to easily access the web page and register the necessary information.

[0060] Next, the information stored in the storage unit 32 of the server 30 will be described.

[0061] As shown in Fig. 6, identification information, payment information, and user information are stored in association with each other in the memory unit 32 of the server 30. The identification information is information for identifying the vehicle, the vehicle user, etc. The payment information and user information are information related to the vehicle user and the payment method. The payment information and user information constitute customer information.

[0062] The identification information includes the vehicle-mounted device ID, the ETC card number, and the vehicle number.

[0063] The payment information includes credit card information, bank account information, and various information for using other payment schemes. The payment information is used as information regarding the payment method selected by the person who bears the fee charged to the vehicle or the user of the vehicle. The payment information also includes information indicating that the fee is to be automatically paid by a predetermined method when the vehicle leaves the venue (an instruction to permit automatic payment).

[0064] The user information includes user identification information for identifying the user, contact information, authentication information, etc. The user identification information includes, for example, the name, address, date of birth, gender, nickname, driver's license number, etc. The contact information includes, for example, a telephone number, an email address, and an ID for SNS or various messaging services, etc. The authentication information stores an ID, a password, etc. for accessing a member-only website, etc.

[0065] Furthermore, the storage unit 32 of the server 30 stores the entry information generated by the generation unit 314 in association with the parking ticket in association with the identification information of the vehicle corresponding to the parking ticket. The entry information may be stored in association with information on the date and time when the parking ticket was issued, information on the date and time when the vehicle entered the controlled area, and the like.

[0066] The above information described as being stored in the memory unit 32 may be stored in external storage that can be connected to the server 30 via a network, and may be configured to be accessed and retrieved from the server 30 as needed.

[0067] (ETC on-board device 40) FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of an ETC vehicle-mounted unit.

[0068] As shown in Fig. 7, the ETC vehicle-mounted device 40 includes a control unit 41, a storage unit 42, a communication unit 43, a card acceptance unit 44, and an output unit 45. The components are connected to each other via a bus so that they can communicate with each other. The control unit 41, the storage unit 42, and the communication unit 43 of the ETC vehicle-mounted device 40 are similar to the corresponding configurations of the acquisition device 110, so duplicated explanations will be omitted.

[0069] The card acceptance unit 44 accepts the insertion of an ETC card. The card acceptance unit 44 acquires various information, including the ETC card number, from the inserted ETC card. The control unit 41 transmits the information acquired by the card acceptance unit 44 to the acquisition device 110 via the communication unit 43.

[0070] The output unit 45 is configured to output light and sound, and is configured, for example, with an indicator lamp that shows the reading status of the ETC card, a speaker that outputs voice guidance, etc.

[0071] The storage unit 42 stores an on-board device ID, represented by a wireless call number (WCN), which is unique information for identifying the ETC on-board device 40 as a wireless base station. Therefore, the acquisition device 110 can acquire the on-board device ID of the ETC on-board device 40 when performing wireless communication with the ETC on-board device 40 via the ETC antenna 114.

[0072] (Payment System 50) FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the payment system.

[0073] As shown in Fig. 8, the payment system 50 includes a control unit 51, a storage unit 52, and a communication unit 53. The components are connected to each other via a bus so as to be able to communicate with each other. The control unit 51, the storage unit 52, and the communication unit 53 of the payment system 50 are similar to the corresponding configurations of the acquisition device 110, and therefore redundant explanations will be omitted.

[0074] The payment system 50 is a system installed in, for example, a payment institution (financial institution) such as a bank or credit card company, a payment institution that provides various code payment services, or a payment agent that performs various operations for making payments at such payment institutions. The server 30 can execute payment of parking fees by credit card payment, bank account transfer, etc. by transmitting and receiving information to and from the payment system 50.

[0075] Furthermore, the payment system 50 may hold information regarding the credit card associated with the user's ETC card, and information indicating whether the user's ETC card has been rejected (set as invalid) by the issuer of the ETC card. The above information is stored in the storage unit 52 of the payment system 50. Note that the payment system 50 does not need to hold rejection information associated with the ETC card number. In this case, for example, the ETC card number may be converted into credit card information, and whether the credit card has been rejected may be confirmed with the credit card company each time.

[0076] The system 1 may include configurations other than those described above. Each of the above configurations may include components other than those described above, or may not include some of the above-mentioned components. Each of the above configurations may be configured by a plurality of devices, or may be configured integrally. A function described as being performed by a certain configuration may be performed by another configuration instead.

[0077] An overview of the processing in the system will be explained.

[0078] (Processing Overview) Figures 9 and 10 are flowcharts showing the procedure of the entry / exit management process executed by the server. Figure 11 is a subroutine flowchart showing the procedure of the process of registering customer information and identification information in association with each other using the warehousing information shown in step S110 of Figure 10 as an association key. The processes shown in the flowcharts of Figures 9 to 11 are stored as programs in the storage unit 32 of the server 30, and are executed by the control unit 31 controlling each unit.

[0079] 9 and 10, the server 30 detects that a vehicle is about to enter a controlled area (operation of entering a controlled area) (step S101). Specifically, the server 30 detects that the vehicle is about to enter the controlled area based on information related to the detection result transmitted from the detection device 120.

[0080] The server 30 acquires identification information from the acquisition device 110 for the vehicle detected in the process of step S101 (step S102). Specifically, the server 30 acquires identification information including at least one of the vehicle-mounted device ID, the ETC card number, and the vehicle number of the vehicle acquired from the ETC vehicle-mounted device 40 of the vehicle via the acquisition device 110. The server 30 determines whether customer information is associated with and registered in the identification information acquired in the process of step S102 (step S103). Specifically, the server 30 refers to the database of the storage unit 32 and determines whether customer information including payment information such as credit card information and bank account information is associated with and stored in the identification information acquired in the process of step S102.

[0081] At this time, the server 30 may also check whether or not the payment process can be executed based on the payment information. For example, the server 30 checks whether or not the payment process can be executed by checking whether an instruction to permit automatic payment has been registered or by checking in advance whether credit card information or the like can be used. If it is confirmed based on the payment information that the payment process cannot be executed, the server 30 will guide the user to change the payment information, for example, by registering an instruction to permit automatic payment or by registering a usable payment method, and will encourage the user to make the payment process possible.

[0082] If customer information is not registered (step S103: NO), the server 30 generates entry information corresponding to the parking ticket to be issued for the vehicle attempting to enter the controlled area, and stores (registers) the information in the memory unit 32 in association with the identification information obtained in the processing of step S102 (step S104).

[0083] The server 30 transmits a control signal to the entrance / exit restriction device 140 to control the entrance / exit restriction device 140 to issue a parking ticket on which the entrance information and the like are described (step S105). The ticket issuing unit 144 of the entrance / exit restriction device 140 issues a parking ticket on which the entrance information and the like are described based on the instruction transmitted from the server 30. In this embodiment, the server 30 generates a two-dimensional barcode that encodes the entrance information and access information to a dedicated page for users to register customer information, and transmits the two-dimensional barcode to the entrance / exit restriction device 140. The ticket issuing unit 144 of the entrance / exit restriction device 140 issues a parking ticket on which the above-mentioned two-dimensional barcode is printed. When a parking ticket is obtained, the entrance / exit restriction device 140 notifies the server 30 of the fact.

[0084] The server 30 determines whether or not a parking ticket has been obtained based on the notification sent from the entrance / exit control device 140 (step S106).

[0085] If a parking ticket has not been acquired (step S106: NO), the server 30 waits until a parking ticket is acquired.

[0086] If a parking ticket is obtained (step S106: YES), the server 30 transmits a control signal to the entry / exit control device 140 to control the entry / exit control device 140 so as not to restrict the entry of the vehicle into the controlled area (step S107). The entry / exit control unit 143 of the entry / exit control device 140 moves the gate or bar for restricting the entry of the vehicle to allow the vehicle to enter the controlled area. This allows the user to allow the vehicle to enter the controlled area and park the vehicle in the parking area. After the vehicle has entered the controlled area, the server 30 controls the entry / exit control device 140 to restrict the entry and exit of the vehicle.

[0087] Thereafter, when the user finishes parking and leaves the controlled area, the server 30 executes the following processing of steps S108 to S116. Note that the processing of steps S108 to S110 may be executed when the user leaves the controlled area, or may be executed in advance at an earlier timing. Below, an example will be described in which the processing of steps S108 to S110 is executed shortly before the user leaves the controlled area (for example, when the user returns to the vehicle parked in the parking space and is about to head toward the exit of the controlled area).

[0088] The server 30 guides the user to register customer information (step S108). For example, the server 30 displays on a display or the like provided in the managed area a guide to read the two-dimensional barcode printed on the parking ticket using the user's smartphone or the like, access a dedicated page, and register customer information. The two-dimensional barcode contains entry information as well as access information to the dedicated page provided by the server 30. Therefore, when the user reads the two-dimensional barcode using a smartphone or the like to access the dedicated page, the entry information can also be transmitted to the server 30. The above-mentioned guide for the user may be posted on the parking lot's webpage or as a notice within the parking lot, or may be written on the parking ticket.

[0089] The server 30 determines whether or not the user has accessed the dedicated web page (step S109).

[0090] If there is no access (step S109: NO), the server 30 waits until there is an access from a user.

[0091] If there is an access (step S109: YES), the server 30 executes a process of registering the customer information and the identification information in association with each other using the entry information as an association key based on the input from the user (step S110). The process of registering the customer information and the identification information in association with each other using the parking area information as an association key in step S110 will be described in detail with reference to FIG.

[0092] As shown in FIG. 11, the server 30 accepts the input of the parking entry information generated in the process of step S104 from the user (step S201). For example, in the process of step S108, when the user reads the two-dimensional barcode printed on the parking ticket using a smartphone or the like to access a dedicated page, the server 30 can receive the transmitted parking entry information, thereby accepting the input of the parking entry information. Alternatively, the server 30 may transmit information indicating a screen for the user to input the parking entry information written on the parking ticket to the information terminal 20, and cause the display unit 24 of the information terminal 20 to display the screen. In this case, the user operates the operation reception unit 25 while viewing the screen to input the parking entry information, and transmits it to the server 30. This allows the server 30 to accept the input of the parking entry information.

[0093] Based on the entry information input in the process of step S201, the server 30 calculates the parking fee for the parking corresponding to the entry information, transmits it to the information terminal 20 of the user to display it, and accepts the input of customer information including payment information from the user (step S202). For example, the server 30 transmits information showing a screen for the user to input customer information including payment information to the information terminal 20, and causes the display unit 24 of the information terminal 20 to display the screen. The user operates the operation reception unit 25 while watching the screen to input customer information and transmits it to the server 30. In this way, the server 30 accepts the input of customer information. The parking fee calculated in the process of step S202 above is calculated before the vehicle leaves the controlled area, so it is presented to the user as the parking fee at that time, and when the vehicle leaves the controlled area, the confirmed parking fee may be presented to the user again. Also, if the processes of steps S108 to S110 are executed when the vehicle leaves the controlled area, the confirmed parking fee may be presented to the user in the process of step S202.

[0094] When the entry information received in the process of step S201 matches the entry information stored in the storage unit 32 in the process of step S104 in FIG. 9, the server 30 stores in the storage unit 32 the identification information associated with the matching entry information and registered in the storage unit 32 and the customer information received in the process of step S202 in association with each other (step S203). Furthermore, the server 30 receives from the user an instruction to pay the parking fee using the registered payment information (payment instruction) or an instruction to permit subsequent automatic payment by pressing a payment button or an automatic payment permission button displayed on the web page. The server 30 stores the content of the payment instruction or the instruction to permit automatic payment received from the user as payment information in the storage unit 32. The server 30 ends the process of step S110.

[0095] The server 30 determines whether or not it has detected that the vehicle is about to exit the controlled area (vehicle's exiting action) based on information about the detection result transmitted from the detection device 120 (step S111).

[0096] If the exiting motion of the vehicle is not detected (step S111: NO), the server 30 waits until the exiting motion of the vehicle is detected.

[0097] If the vehicle's exit operation is detected (step S111: YES), the server 30 acquires the identification information of the vehicle via the acquisition device 110, and determines whether customer information including payment information is registered in association with the acquired identification information in the memory unit 32 (step S112).

[0098] If customer information is registered in association with the identification information (step S112: YES), the server 30 uses the payment information included in the customer information to execute payment processing of the parking fee calculated based on a predetermined fee table, etc. (step S113). The parking fee is calculated, for example, by obtaining the date and time when the vehicle entered the controlled area based on the entry information stored in association with the identification information, calculating the parking time from the difference with the exit date and time, and multiplying the calculated parking time by the hourly rate. Various discounts, surcharges, coupons, points, etc. may be applied to the parking fee based on preset conditions. The server 30 may notify, for example, the user's information terminal 20 of information indicating the name of the parking lot, the entry date and time, the exit date and time, the parking fee, the payment method used, etc., as usage certification information.

[0099] After the processing of step S113 is completed, the server 30 transmits a control signal to the entry / exit control device 140 to control the entry / exit control device 140 so as not to restrict the vehicle's exit from the controlled area (step S114). This results in a state in which the vehicle's exit from the controlled area is not restricted, and the user can allow the vehicle to exit the controlled area. After the vehicle has exited the controlled area, the server 30 controls the entry / exit control device 140 to restrict the vehicle's exit from the controlled area, and ends the processing.

[0100] If customer information is not registered in association with the identification information (step S112: NO), the server 30 accepts an instruction as to whether the user wishes to settle the bill using a settlement machine included in the entrance / exit control device 140 (step S115). The server 30 accepts the instruction by, for example, displaying a screen for accepting the instruction on the display of the entrance / exit control device 140 and accepting an input from the user.

[0101] When an instruction to the effect that the user does not wish to settle the payment using the settlement machine is received from the user (step S115: NO), the server 30 returns to the process of step S108 and guides the user to register customer information.

[0102] When an instruction that a payment is desired to be made using the payment machine is received from the user (step S115: YES), the server 30 controls the entrance / exit restriction device 140 to execute the payment process using the payment machine (step S116). After completing the process of step S116, the server 30 proceeds to the process of step S114.

[0103] In the process of step S103 in FIG. 9, if customer information is registered in association with the acquired identification information (step S103: YES), the server 30 controls the entrance / exit restriction device 140 not to issue a parking ticket (step S120), and further controls the entrance / exit restriction device 140 not to restrict the entry of the vehicle into the controlled area (step S121). In this embodiment, the customer information including the payment information and the instruction to allow automatic payment are registered by the user, and a state in which the parking fee can be charged to the user at any time is established, so there is no need to issue a parking ticket for settling the parking fee or restrict the exit of the vehicle. At this time, the server 30 may notify, for example, the user's information terminal 20, that there is no need to execute the payment process because automatic payment will be performed at the time of exit, or may notify information on the payment means to be used for automatic payment. In addition, the notification may be used to confirm whether automatic payment will be performed using the payment means registered at the time of exit. After the vehicle enters the controlled area, the server 30 controls the entrance / exit restriction device 140 to restrict the entry and exit of the vehicle.

[0104] Thereafter, when the user finishes parking and causes the vehicle to exit the controlled area, the server 30 executes the following processes of steps S122 to S124.

[0105] The server 30 determines whether or not it has detected that the vehicle is about to exit the controlled area (vehicle's exiting action) based on the information on the detection result transmitted from the detection device 120 (step S122).

[0106] If the exiting motion of the vehicle is not detected (step S122: NO), the server 30 waits until the exiting motion of the vehicle is detected.

[0107] If the vehicle's exiting action is detected (step S122: YES), the server 30 executes the payment process for the parking fee and the like using the payment information included in the customer information (step S123). The server 30 may, for example, notify the user's information terminal 20 of information indicating the name of the parking lot, the entry date and time, the exit date and time, the parking fee, the payment method used, and the like, as usage proof information. If the payment process cannot be executed, the server 30 may, for example, guide the user to change the payment information, urging the user to make the payment process possible. If the payment process still cannot be executed, the server 30 may, for example, proceed to step S116 in FIG. 10, and execute the payment process using a payment machine.

[0108] After the processing of step S123 is completed, the server 30 transmits a control signal to the entry / exit control device 140 to control the entry / exit control device 140 so as not to restrict the vehicle's exit from the controlled area (step S124). This results in a state in which the vehicle's exit from the controlled area is not restricted, and the user can allow the vehicle to exit the controlled area. After the vehicle has exited the controlled area, the server 30 controls the entry / exit control device 140 to restrict the vehicle's exit from the controlled area, and ends the processing.

[0109] According to the above embodiment, the following effects are achieved. The server 30 has a detection unit that detects when a vehicle enters a specified controlled area or when a vehicle is attempting to exit the controlled area; a vehicle entry / exit restriction unit that can restrict the entry of vehicles into the controlled area and the exit of vehicles from the controlled area; an acquisition unit that acquires identification information including at least one of the unique information of the onboard unit installed in the vehicle that is entering or exiting the controlled area, the unique information of the ETC card inserted in the onboard unit, and the vehicle number; a generation unit that generates unique entry information in correspondence with a parking ticket issued for the vehicle that is attempting to enter the controlled area; and a registration unit that associates and registers the vehicle identification information and the entry information generated by the generation unit.

[0110] As a result, the server 30 can register at least one of the unique information of the ETC on-board device 40 installed in the vehicle attempting to enter the controlled area, the unique information of the ETC card, and the vehicle number in association with the unique entry information generated in association with the parking ticket issued for the vehicle attempting to enter the controlled area. The entry information is unique information generated in association with the parking ticket, and for example, by displaying the entry information or information associated with the entry information on the parking ticket, the user can easily recognize the entry information and transmit it to the server 30. Therefore, by registering the entry information in association with the identification information, the user can easily refer to and use the identification information such as the unique information of the ETC on-board device 40, the unique information of the ETC card, and the vehicle number based on the entry information, which is information that the user can easily recognize and transmit to the server 30, and therefore, the cashless settlement of parking fees in the parking lot can be easily and reliably performed.

[0111] The server 30 further has a reception unit that receives input of warehousing information from the vehicle user and also receives input of customer information including payment information related to the payment means selected by the person who bears the fee to be charged to the vehicle or the vehicle user, searches for warehousing information registered in the registration unit from the warehousing information received by the reception unit, and if there is identification information registered in association with the warehousing information, further associates and registers the customer information received by the reception unit. This makes it possible to search and extract identification information, which is information that is difficult for the user to recognize or send to the server 30, from the storage unit of the server 30 using the warehousing information, which is information that the user can easily recognize and can easily send to the server 30, as a key, and makes it easy to associate and register the customer information of the user with the identification information. By easily associating and registering customer information including the payment information of the user with the identification information for identifying the vehicle or the vehicle user, it becomes possible to easily execute a process of automatically charging parking fees, etc. to the vehicle or the vehicle user, and a process of transmitting and receiving various information to and from the vehicle or the vehicle user, etc.

[0112] The server 30 further includes an issuance control unit that controls the issuance of parking tickets issued to vehicles entering the controlled area, and when the detection unit detects that a vehicle is about to exit the controlled area, the issuance control unit controls not to issue a parking ticket if customer information is registered in association with the identification information of the vehicle acquired by the acquisition unit and payment processing for the fee can be executed using the payment information included in the customer information. As in this embodiment, if it is confirmed that customer information is registered in association with the identification information of the vehicle and payment processing for the fee can be executed using the payment information included in the customer information, a state in which the parking fee can be charged to the user at any time can be established, so there is no need to issue a parking ticket to settle the parking fee. By not issuing a parking ticket, the user can be saved from the trouble of receiving and storing a parking ticket, and taking it out and presenting it when exiting, and the trouble involved in using the parking lot can be significantly reduced. In addition, not issuing a parking ticket can also contribute to saving resources and reducing waste.

[0113] In addition, when the detection unit detects that a vehicle is about to exit the controlled area, if customer information is registered in association with the identification information of the vehicle acquired by the acquisition unit and payment processing of the fee can be executed using the payment information included in the customer information, the server 30 does not restrict the vehicle from exiting the controlled area. As in the present embodiment, if it is confirmed that customer information is registered in association with the identification information of the vehicle and payment processing of the fee can be executed using the payment information included in the customer information, a state in which the parking fee can be charged to the user at any time can be established, so there is no need to restrict the vehicle from exiting the controlled area. This allows the user to smoothly exit the vehicle from the controlled area without waiting for the completion of the restriction release operation of the entry / exit restriction device 140. Therefore, it is possible to eliminate the need to make a user who is in a hurry wait or to make the user perform complicated operations when exiting the controlled area, and the convenience of the parking lot can be dramatically improved.

[0114] Furthermore, when the detection unit detects that a vehicle is about to exit the controlled area, and customer information is not registered in association with the identification information of the vehicle acquired by the acquisition unit, the server 30 further receives an instruction from the user regarding whether or not to settle the fare using the settlement machine. This allows even a user who has not registered customer information in association with the identification information to exit the vehicle from the controlled area by settling the fare using the settlement machine, making it possible to flexibly accept payment of the fare according to the user's intention.

[0115] Furthermore, when the detection unit detects that a vehicle is about to exit a controlled area, and customer information has not been registered in association with the identification information of the vehicle acquired by the acquisition unit, the server 30 guides the user to register customer information. This makes it possible to encourage the user to register customer information in association with the identification information, and promotes easier and more efficient use of the parking lot.

[0116] In addition, the server 30 generates the parking entry information by associating it with a one-dimensional or two-dimensional barcode that can be output on the parking ticket. This allows the parking entry information to be easily obtained by a smartphone or the like that can read one-dimensional or two-dimensional barcodes, and makes it easier to execute processes such as associating identification information with customer information using the parking entry information as a key.

[0117] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various modifications and improvements are possible within the scope of the claims.

[0118] For example, in the above embodiment, the information terminal 20 has been described as a terminal that is possessed by the user. However, the information terminal 20 may be a shared terminal installed in a parking lot or the like. In this case, even if the user does not possess the information terminal, the user can perform operations such as registering necessary information.

[0119] Furthermore, the processing of the system according to the above-described embodiment may include steps other than those in the above-described flowchart, or may not include some of the above-described steps. The order of the steps is not limited to the above-described embodiment. Furthermore, each step may be combined with other steps and executed as one step, may be included in other steps and executed, or may be divided into multiple steps and executed. For example, in the flowchart of FIG. 9, an example in which the detection process in step S101 is performed and then the identification information acquisition process in step S102 is performed has been described, but this is not limited thereto, and the process in step S102 may be performed first.

[0120] In addition, the means and methods for performing various processes in each device of the system according to the above-mentioned embodiment can be realized by either a dedicated hardware circuit or a programmed computer. The above-mentioned program may be provided by a computer-readable recording medium such as a CD-ROM (Compact Disc Read Only Memory), or may be provided online via a network such as the Internet. In this case, the program recorded in the computer-readable recording medium is usually transferred to and stored in a storage unit such as a hard disk. In addition, the above-mentioned program may be provided as a standalone application software, or may be incorporated into the software of each device of the system as one function of the device. [Explanation of symbols]

[0121] 1 system, 10. On-site systems, 110 Acquisition device; 111 control section, 112 Memory section, 113 Communications Department, 114 ETC antenna, 115 cameras, 120 Detection devices, 121 control section, 122 Memory section, 123 Communications Department, 124 detection unit, 140 Entry and exit control devices, 141 control section, 142 Communications Department, 143 Entry and Exit Control Department, 144 Ticketing Department, 145 Settlement Department, 20 Information terminal, 21 Control section, 22 Memory section, 23 Communications Department, 24 Display section, 25 Operation reception unit, 30 servers, 31 Control section, 311 Detection unit, 312 Vehicle Entry and Exit Control Section; 313 Acquisition Department; 314 generation section, 315 Registration Department, 316 Reception Department, 317 Issuance control section, 318 Information Department, 32 storage section, 33 Communications Department, 40 ETC on-board device, 41 control section, 42 Memory section, 43 Communications Department, 44 Card acceptance section, 45 output section, 50 Payment systems, 51 control section, 52 Memory section, 53 Communications Department.

Claims

1. A detection unit that detects a vehicle entering a predetermined controlled area or the vehicle attempting to exit the controlled area; a vehicle entry / exit control unit capable of controlling entry of the vehicle into the controlled area and exit of the vehicle from the controlled area; an acquisition unit that acquires identification information including at least one of unique information of an on-board device installed in the vehicle that is about to enter or exit the controlled area, unique information of an ETC card inserted in the on-board device, and a vehicle number; a generating unit that generates unique entry information in association with a parking ticket issued for a vehicle that is to enter the controlled area; a registration unit that associates and registers the identification information of the vehicle and the warehousing information generated by the generation unit; a reception unit that receives input of the warehousing information from a user of the vehicle and also receives input of customer information including payment information related to a payment method selected by a person who bears the cost to be charged to the vehicle or the user of the vehicle, The registration unit searches for the warehousing information registered in the registration unit from the warehousing information accepted by the reception unit, and if the identification information registered in association with the warehousing information exists, further associates and registers the customer information accepted by the reception unit; and a control unit that, when an exit operation of the vehicle is detected, acquires via the acquisition unit the identification information of the vehicle whose exit has been detected, and, when customer information including the payment information associated with the acquired identification information is registered, executes a payment process for the parking fee using the payment information included in the customer information, and controls the vehicle entry / exit restriction unit so as not to restrict the vehicle from exiting the controlled area. The payment information includes credit card information, bank account information, or information for using either prepaid card payment, point card payment, electronic money payment, or code payment, and information for allowing the parking fee to be paid automatically in a predetermined manner when the vehicle exits, and is used as information regarding the payment method selected by the person who will bear the fee to be charged to the vehicle or the user of the vehicle.

2. An issuance control unit controls issuance of parking tickets issued to vehicles entering the controlled area, The entry / exit management system of claim 1, wherein the issuance control unit controls so as not to issue the parking ticket when the detection unit detects that the vehicle is attempting to enter the controlled area, the customer information is registered in association with the identification information of the vehicle acquired by the acquisition unit, and the payment process for the fee can be executed using the payment information included in the customer information.

3. An entry / exit management system as described in claim 1 or 2, further comprising a guidance unit that guides the user to register the customer information when the detection unit detects that the vehicle is attempting to exit the controlled area and the customer information is not registered in association with the identification information of the vehicle acquired by the acquisition unit.

4. The entrance / exit management system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the generation unit generates the entrance information in association with a one-dimensional barcode or a two-dimensional barcode that can be output on the parking ticket.

5. A detection step of detecting a vehicle entering a predetermined controlled area or an attempt by the vehicle to exit the controlled area; a vehicle entry / exit control step of controlling the entry of the vehicle into the controlled area and the exit of the vehicle from the controlled area; an acquisition step of acquiring identification information including at least one of unique information of an on-board device installed in the vehicle entering the controlled area, unique information of an ETC card inserted in the on-board device, and a vehicle number; a generating step of generating unique entry information in association with a parking ticket issued for a vehicle attempting to enter the controlled area; a registration step of registering the identification information of the vehicle and the inventory information generated by the generation step in association with each other; a receiving step of receiving the entry information from a user of the vehicle and receiving an entry of customer information including payment information related to a payment method selected by a person who bears the charge to be imposed on the vehicle or the user of the vehicle, The registration step searches for the warehousing information registered in the registration step from the warehousing information accepted in the reception step, and if the identification information registered in association with the warehousing information exists, the customer information accepted in the reception step is further associated with the customer information and registered; and a control step of acquiring, when an exit operation of the vehicle is detected, the identification information of the vehicle whose exit has been detected through the acquiring step, and, when customer information including the payment information associated with the acquired identification information is registered, executing a payment process for a parking fee using the payment information included in the customer information, and controlling the vehicle entry / exit restriction step so as not to restrict the exit of the vehicle from a controlled area, An entry / exit management program for causing a computer to execute processing including the step of: the payment information includes credit card information, bank account information, or information for using either prepaid card payment, point card payment, electronic money payment, or code payment, and information for allowing the parking fee to be paid automatically in a predetermined manner when the vehicle exits, and is used as information regarding the payment method selected by the person who will bear the fee to be charged to the vehicle or the user of the vehicle.

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