Information output device and information output method

Abstract

An information output device (1) comprises: an output device (12) that outputs at least one from among image data, text data, and sound data; and a control device (14) that, when a predetermined condition is satisfied, causes the output device (12) to output recharge suggestion information (38) for prompting recharge of a power source that moves a moving body (2). The information output device (1) outputs the recharge suggestion information (38) when a predetermined condition is satisfied, the predetermined condition including such a condition that a first destination and a second destination to which the moving body (2) moves after having reached the first destination are set and such a condition that the moving body (2) has reached a position having a first predetermined distance to the first destination.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an information output device that outputs information that prompts a vehicle to replenish a power source for moving, and an information output control method for causing the information output device to output this information. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a charging facility guidance device that calculates a route for charging based on vehicle notification information. The vehicle notification information includes identification information of the electric vehicle, position data of the electric vehicle, information indicating the charging state of the electric vehicle, and round-trip route information between a predetermined departure point and a predetermined destination on which the electric vehicle travels. According to Patent Document 1, the charging facility guidance device is capable of providing guidance to the electric vehicle about charging facilities located along or near a route along which the electric vehicle periodically travels, when the electric vehicle has an appropriate remaining charge. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2021-148472 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, with the charging facility guidance device disclosed in Patent Document 1, there is a possibility that charging will be required immediately when departing for the next destination, and there is a risk that the transition to the next activity cannot be made smoothly.

[0005] An object of the present invention is to provide an information output device and an information output control method that enable a smooth transition to the next activity. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] An information output device according to a first aspect of the present disclosure includes an output device and a control device. The output device outputs at least one of image data, text data, and audio data. The control device outputs replenishment suggestion information to the output device when a predetermined condition is satisfied. The replenishment suggestion information is information that encourages replenishment of a power source. The power source moves a moving body. The predetermined condition includes a first destination and a second destination being set as destinations of the moving body. The second destination is a destination to which the moving body aims after arriving at the first destination. The predetermined condition includes the moving body approaching the first destination to a predetermined distance.

[0007] The information output device of the first aspect can cause the output device to output replenishment suggestion information at an appropriate timing that allows the mobile body to depart smoothly from the first destination toward the second destination.

[0008] In the information output device according to the first aspect of the present disclosure, the predetermined condition further includes that the first destination is not a replenishment facility. The replenishment facility can replenish the power source of the mobile object. The control device acquires destination information. The destination information is information related to a set destination. The control device does not output replenishment suggestion information when the first destination is a replenishment facility.

[0009] The information output device of the first aspect can prevent replenishment suggestion information from being output when replenishment of the power source is not necessary.

[0010] In the information output device according to the first aspect of the present disclosure, the predetermined condition further includes that the cruising distance is shorter than the route distance, or the difference between the cruising distance and the route distance is equal to or less than a predetermined distance. The cruising distance is a distance that the mobile body is estimated to be able to continue traveling with the remaining power source. The route distance is a distance from the current location of the mobile body to the second destination. When the mobile body approaches the first destination within a predetermined distance, the control device acquires remaining amount data and calculates the cruising distance. The remaining amount data indicates the remaining amount of the power source. When the mobile body approaches the first destination within a predetermined distance, the control device acquires position data and calculates the route distance. The position data indicates the current location of the mobile body. When the cruising distance is longer than the route distance by more than a predetermined distance, the control device does not output replenishment suggestion information.

[0011] The information output device of the first aspect can reduce the possibility that replenishment suggestion information is output when replenishment of the power source is not necessary.

[0012] In the information output device according to the first aspect of the present disclosure, the predetermined condition further includes that the number of replenishment possible facilities is less than a predetermined number. The replenishment possible facilities are replenishment possible facilities located along the search route from the first destination to the second destination. The control device acquires replenishment facility information when the mobile body approaches the first destination within a predetermined distance. The replenishment facility information is information regarding replenishment possible facilities located along the search route from the first destination to the second destination. The control device does not output replenishment suggestion information when the number of replenishment possible facilities is more than a predetermined number.

[0013] The information output device of the first aspect can reduce the possibility that replenishment suggestion information is output when replenishment of the power source is not necessary.

[0014] In the information output device according to the first aspect of the present disclosure, the predetermined condition further includes a forecast of bad weather at the current location of the mobile object or along the searched route beyond the current location. The control device acquires weather information when the mobile object approaches the first destination within a predetermined distance. The control device does not output replenishment suggestion information if bad weather is not forecast at the current location of the mobile object or along the searched route beyond the current location within a predetermined period from the current time.

[0015] The information output device of the first aspect can prevent a situation in which the power source must be replenished in bad weather.

[0016] An information output method according to a first aspect of the present disclosure is a control method for causing an output device that outputs at least one of image data, text data, and audio data to output replenishment suggestion information encouraging the replenishment of a power source that moves a moving body, the method including a step of outputting the replenishment suggestion information when a first destination and a second destination to which the moving body aims upon arriving at the first destination are set as destinations of the moving body and the moving body approaches within a predetermined distance of the first destination. Effect of the Invention

[0017] According to the present invention, before moving to the next activity, a suggestion is made as to whether or not the power source needs to be replenished, so that the move to the next activity can be made smoothly. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0018] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic configuration diagram of an information output device according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Diagram 2] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of replenishment proposal information. [Diagram 3] This is an image of when two destinations have been set. [Figure 4] 13 is an example of a screen showing a route to a replenishment facility. [Diagram 5] 13 is a flowchart of a replenishment suggestion process. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0019] As shown in Fig. 1, an information output device 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes an input device 11, an output device 12, a storage device 13, and a control device 14. The control device 14 includes a first communication control unit 15, a second communication control unit 16, a navigation unit 17, a proposal unit 18, and an output control unit 19. The information output device 1 is mounted on a moving object 2. The information output device 1 is, for example, a car navigation device, a smartphone, a tablet terminal, or a personal computer. In this embodiment, the information output device 1 is a car navigation device.

[0020] The moving body 2 is, for example, a vehicle such as an automobile or a two-wheeled vehicle such as a motorcycle. In this embodiment, the moving body 2 is an electric vehicle. An electric vehicle moves using electricity as a power source. In this embodiment, the moving body 2 includes a position sensor 21, a power source unit 22, a communication device 23, and a refill unit 24. Note that "mounted" means that the information output device 1 moves together with the moving body 2. "Mounted" includes the information output device 1 being incorporated in the moving body 2 and the information output device 1 being brought into the moving body 2 by a user.

[0021] When the predetermined conditions are met, the output control unit 19 causes the output device 12 to output replenishment suggestion information 38 as shown in FIG. 2. The replenishment suggestion information 38 is information for encouraging the user to replenish the power source. There may be multiple predetermined conditions. For example, condition 1, which is one of the predetermined conditions, is that two destinations are set, as shown in the image of FIG. 3.

[0022] The goal icons 36 correspond to the two destinations, respectively. The goal icons 36 are, for example, flag shapes. As shown in Fig. 3, the current location mark 35 corresponds to the current location of the moving object 2. The route graphic 37 corresponds to the route between the current location of the moving object 2 and the two destinations.

[0023] Setting two destinations means that the navigation unit 17 is guiding the moving body 2 along routes to these destinations. That is, condition 1 is that a destination after the destination currently being guided is set and route guidance is being performed. The first destination is the first of the two destinations that the moving body 2 aims for from the starting point. The second destination is the next of the two destinations after the first destination. The second destination is the second destination that the moving body 2 aims for from the first destination. The first and second destinations may be set by the user via the input device 11, or the first and second destinations may be set as previously stored in the memory unit.

[0024] Condition 2 may be that the moving object 2 approaches the first destination within a predetermined distance. The predetermined distance is, for example, a range 42 of a predetermined radius centered on the first destination. The proposing unit 18 determines that condition 2 is satisfied when the moving object 2 approaches the first destination within a predetermined distance. Hereinafter, the predetermined distance related to condition 2 is also referred to as a "first predetermined distance."

[0025] When predetermined conditions including at least condition 1 and condition 2 are satisfied, the output control unit 19 outputs replenishment suggestion information 38 to the output device 12 as shown in FIG. 2. Therefore, when two destinations are set, the information output device 1 can propose replenishment of the power source at an appropriate timing when the moving object 2 can smoothly depart from the first destination toward the second destination. That is, the output control unit 19 can output the replenishment suggestion information 38 to the output device 12 at a timing when the moving object 2 approaches the first destination within a predetermined distance. In this way, the moving object 2 equipped with the information output device 1 of this embodiment can smoothly transition to the next activity after arriving at the first destination without replenishing the power source.

[0026] <Details of each component> The position sensor 21 shown in FIG. 1 acquires position data of the mobile object 2 at a predetermined time interval. The position data indicates the current location of the mobile object 2 at the time the data is acquired. The position sensor 21 is, for example, a GPS (Global Positioning System) sensor. The GPS sensor receives radio waves transmitted from a plurality of GPS satellites arranged in the sky, calculates the distance to each GPS satellite, and calculates position data indicating the current location. The position data includes, for example, latitude data and longitude data. The position sensor 21 can output the position data to the first communication control unit 15.

[0027] The power source unit 22 has a storage unit 22a and a power source sensor 22b. The storage unit 22a stores the power source. The power source is, for example, electricity, gasoline, or hydrogen. When the power source is electricity, the storage unit 22a is a battery for driving. When the power source is gasoline or hydrogen, the storage unit 22a is a container that can store the power source.

[0028] The power source sensor 22b includes at least one of a current sensor, a voltage sensor, and a temperature sensor. The power source sensor 22b acquires data for the control device 14 to calculate the remaining amount of the power source housed in the housing unit 22a. When the power source is electric, the power source sensor 22b detects, for example, the current value, voltage value, and temperature of a battery. The power source sensor 22b can output the acquired data to the proposal unit 18 via the first communication control unit 15.

[0029] The communication device 23 communicates with an external device provided outside the mobile object 2. The external device is, for example, a server. An example of the server is a weather server 4. The weather server 4 distributes weather information. The communication device 23 can acquire the weather information from the weather server 4. The communication device 23 is, for example, a TCU (Telematics Control Unit). The TCU performs bidirectional communication with the external device using a mobile network.

[0030] The replenishing unit 24 is used to replenishing the power source to the storage unit 22a. The replenishing unit 24 is provided facing the outside of the moving body 2. The replenishing unit 24 is connected to the storage unit 22a via a cable, a pipe, or the like. In this embodiment, the replenishing unit 24 is configured to be connectable to a charging stand via a charging cable.

[0031] The charging station can replenish electricity, which is a power source, to the storage section 22a. There are two or more types of charging stations. The type of charging station differs, for example, depending on whether it is quick charging or normal charging. The type of charging station differs, for example, depending on whether a charging cable is provided. The charging station is installed at a charging station. The charging station may be installed at a user's home. The charging station corresponds to a replenishment facility. The replenishment facility may also include, for example, a gas station or a hydrogen station.

[0032] The input device 11 may be, for example, a touch panel integrally configured with the output device 12, a voice input device capable of inputting text data by voice, or a physical key. In this embodiment, the input device 11 is a touch panel. The input device 11 is operated by a user.

[0033] The output device 12 may be, for example, a touch panel integrally configured with the input device 11, a speaker for audio output, or a HUD (Head-Up Display). In this embodiment, the output device 12 is a touch panel. Such an output device 12 can output at least one of image data, text data, and audio data.

[0034] The output device 12 outputs the refill suggestion information 38. The output device 12 outputs the refill suggestion information 38 as image data, text data, or audio data. In this embodiment, the output device 12 outputs the refill suggestion information 38 as text data.

[0035] The storage device 13 may include a volatile storage device in which information is erased when the power is turned off, and a non-volatile storage device in which information is not erased even when the power is turned off. For example, the volatile storage device can temporarily store information processed by the control device 14. The volatile storage device may be used as, for example, a RAM (Random Access Memory). The non-volatile storage device is a storage device capable of storing various information processing programs and various information.

[0036] The various information is, for example, map data for displaying a map 31 on the output device 12. The non-volatile storage device may be, for example, a ROM (Read Only Memory). The ROM may be, for example, a flash memory or a HDD (Hard Disk Drive). Drive).

[0037] The map data includes road information. Roads indicated by the road information are represented by a combination of nodes and links. Nodes correspond to intersections, ends of roads, etc. Links correspond to positions connecting adjacent nodes. The map data includes POI (Point of Interest) data. POI data is data related to POIs. POIs are specific points shown on the map 31. The POI data includes, for example, POI position data, POI name, POI type, and image data.

[0038] The image data is, for example, image data of an icon shown on the map 31. In this embodiment, the POI includes a replenishment facility. That is, the POI data indicates the location data of the replenishment facility, the name of the replenishment facility, the type of the replenishment facility, and the like. Hereinafter, the POI data related to the replenishment facility is also referred to as "replenishment facility information." The types of the replenishment facility include, for example, a pole-type normal charger with a cable, a pole-type normal charger without a cable, or a quick charger.

[0039] The control device 14 is electrically connected to the position sensor 21, the power source unit 22, the communication device 23, the input device 11, the output device 12, and the storage device 13. The control device 14 realizes various functional units, for example, by executing various programs stored in the storage device 13. The control device 14 is configured, for example, by a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or an MPU (Micro Processing Unit).

[0040] The first communication control unit 15 acquires position data indicating the current location of the mobile object 2 from the position sensor 21. The first communication control unit 15 acquires remaining amount data indicating the remaining amount of the power source from the power source unit 22. The first communication control unit 15 acquires the position data and remaining amount data by using, for example, CAN (CONTROLLER AREA NETWORK) communication.

[0041] In this embodiment, the second communication control unit 16 acquires weather information from the weather server 4 via the communication device 23. To acquire weather information, the second communication control unit 16 transmits, for example, location data indicating the current location of the mobile body 2 to the weather server 4. The second communication control unit 16 receives weather information for a predetermined area from the weather server 4 via the communication device 23. The predetermined area is an area that includes the current location of the mobile body 2. The predetermined area is an area that includes the set route. The predetermined area is an area that includes the first destination and the second destination.

[0042] The navigation unit 17 provides the user with information for guiding the mobile object 2 from the departure point of the mobile object 2 to the first destination. When the mobile object 2 arrives at the first destination, the navigation unit 17 subsequently provides the user with information for guiding the mobile object 2 from the first destination to the second destination.

[0043] The navigation unit 17 has a function of setting a route based on the current location, the first destination, and the second destination of the mobile object 2. To set the route, the navigation unit 17 acquires position data indicating the current location of the mobile object 2 from the position sensor 21. To set the route, the navigation unit 17 acquires destination information.

[0044] The destination information is information indicating a first destination and a second destination set by the user via the input device 11. The destination information is stored, for example, in the above-mentioned volatile storage medium. The navigation unit 17 guides the user along the set route by at least one of voice and display. The navigation unit 17 can also perform a reroute (re-search) if the moving object 2 deviates from the set route.

[0045] The navigation unit 17 performs a process of searching for a replenishment facility. When the replenishment suggestion information 38 is output and the user decides to replenish the power source, the navigation unit 17 performs a process of searching for a replenishment facility. The process of searching for a replenishment facility is, for example, a process of searching for a suitable replenishment facility based on the current location and first destination of the mobile body 2. The process of searching for a replenishment facility is, for example, a process of searching for a replenishment facility that is located around the mobile body 2 and is of a type that corresponds to the replenishment unit 24.

[0046] The navigation unit 17 searches for a replenishment facility to find a route from the current location of the mobile object 2 to the first destination via the replenishment facility. The navigation unit 17 can set a new route different from the route set at the time of departure of the mobile object 2 by searching for a replenishment facility. In this embodiment, when the search for a replenishment facility is performed, the output device 12 displays a route from the current location of the mobile object 2 to the first destination via the replenishment facility using a route graphic 37a, as shown in FIG. 4.

[0047] The suggestion unit 18 performs a replenishment suggestion process. The replenishment suggestion process is a process for outputting replenishment suggestion information 38. In this embodiment, the suggestion unit 18 may perform the replenishment suggestion process when the following condition 3 or condition 4 is satisfied in addition to the above two conditions.

[0048] Condition 1: A first destination and a second destination have been set, and route guidance is in progress. Condition 2: The moving object 2 approaches the first destination within a first predetermined distance. Condition 3: The first destination is not the user's home or the vicinity of the home, or a replenishment facility. Condition 4: The first destination is a location that is a specified distance or more away from the starting point.

[0049] The suggestion unit 18 acquires destination information to determine whether or not condition 1 is satisfied. The location data of the destination indicated by the destination information is, for example, latitude data and longitude data. For example, when the destination information includes location data of two or more different points, the suggestion unit 18 determines that the first destination and the second destination are set.

[0050] In order to determine whether or not condition 2 is satisfied, the proposal unit 18 acquires position data indicating the current location of the mobile object 2 at a predetermined time interval. The proposal unit 18 acquires position data from the position sensor 21 via the first communication control unit 15. Based on the position data indicating the current location of the mobile object 2 and the position data of the first destination included in the destination information, the proposal unit 18 determines whether or not the mobile object 2 moving along the route has approached the first destination within a first predetermined distance. Note that even if the mobile object 2 does not follow the guidance and deviates from the route, the navigation unit 17 can immediately return to a state where route guidance is being performed by performing a reroute.

[0051] The first predetermined distance is preferably set in balance with the overall route length from the current location of the mobile object 2 to the second destination via the first destination. The first predetermined distance may be a little longer than the distance at which the navigation unit 17 does not perform rerouting even if the mobile object 2 approaches the first destination. The first predetermined distance may be a variable value according to the overall route length. For example, the first predetermined distance is preferably 0.5 km or more and 5 km or less.

[0052] In order to determine whether condition 3 is satisfied, the suggestion unit 18 determines whether the first destination is the user's home or the vicinity of the home based on the destination information, map data, and position data of the user's home. The position data of the user's home is stored, for example, in the non-volatile storage device described above. In this embodiment, in order to determine whether condition 3 is satisfied, the suggestion unit 18 determines whether the first destination is a replenishment facility based on the first destination indicated by the destination information and the replenishment facility information. By basing the suggestion unit 18 on condition 3, it is possible to prevent the replenishment suggestion information 38 from being output to the output device 12 at unnecessary timing.

[0053] To determine whether or not condition 4 is satisfied, the proposal unit 18 calculates the distance from the departure point of the mobile object 2 to the first destination. The proposal unit 18 calculates this distance based on, for example, position data indicating the current location of the mobile object 2 at the time of departure, destination information, and map data. Note that this distance may be calculated by the navigation unit 17. If this distance exceeds a predetermined distance, the proposal unit 18 determines that condition 4 is satisfied.

[0054] Hereinafter, the predetermined distance related to condition 4 is also referred to as the "second predetermined distance." The second predetermined distance is preferably 50 km or more and 200 km or less. Here, the information output device 1 may be configured to output a message stating "There is a possibility that you will not be able to reach the destination" based on the distance from the current location of the moving object 2 to the first destination when the moving object 2 departs. In this case, the second predetermined distance may be a value larger than the distance at which the message is output. By using condition 4 as a basis, the suggestion unit 18 can prevent a suggestion to replenish the power source of the moving object 2 when consumption of the power source of the moving object 2 is low.

[0055] The suggestion unit 18 may be configured to perform the supplement suggestion process when the following condition 5 and condition 6 are satisfied in addition to the above four conditions.

[0056] Condition 5: The remaining power source of the moving object 2 is below a predetermined percentage. Condition 6: If the housing portion 22a is a battery, the battery is in a suitable state for charging.

[0057] In order to determine whether condition 5 is satisfied, the suggestion unit 18 acquires remaining amount data from the power source sensor 22b via the first communication control unit 15. The suggestion unit 18 determines whether the remaining amount of the power source is equal to or less than a predetermined ratio based on the remaining amount data. The predetermined ratio is the ratio of the remaining amount of the power source to the maximum amount that the storage unit 22a can store the power source. The predetermined ratio is, for example, 60%. It is more preferable that the predetermined ratio is 50%. Note that the suggestion unit 18 is not limited to a configuration that determines whether condition 5 is satisfied based on the ratio of the remaining amount of the power source. For example, the suggestion unit 18 may be configured to determine that condition 5 is satisfied when the remaining amount of the power source is equal to or less than a predetermined value.

[0058] The proposal unit 18 acquires temperature data from a temperature detection unit (not shown) to determine whether or not condition 6 is satisfied. The temperature data indicates the temperature outside the moving body 2. The proposal unit 18 determines whether or not the temperature outside the moving body 2 is within a predetermined temperature range based on the temperature data. If the temperature outside the moving body 2 is within the predetermined temperature range, the proposal unit 18 determines that condition 6 is satisfied. The proposal unit 18 can charge the battery efficiently based on condition 6. The temperature data may further indicate the temperature of the battery. In this case, the proposal unit 18 determines that condition 6 is satisfied if the temperature outside the moving body 2 and the temperature of the battery are each within a predetermined temperature range. This allows the battery to be charged at a temperature suitable for charging, and battery deterioration and an increase in charging time can be suppressed.

[0059] The suggestion unit 18 may be configured to perform a replenishment suggestion process when the following condition 7, condition 8, condition 9, or condition 10 is satisfied in addition to the above six conditions.

[0060] Condition 7: Insufficient range based on remaining power source. Condition 8: There are fewer than a specified number of replenishable facilities along the route from the first destination to the second destination. Condition 9: The weather is forecast to worsen in the vicinity of the current location of moving object 2. Condition 10: There is a replenishment facility of a type frequently used by the user in the vicinity of the current location of the mobile unit 2.

[0061] To determine whether or not Condition 7 is satisfied, the suggestion unit 18 determines, for example, whether or not the cruising distance is insufficient with respect to the distance from the current location of the moving object 2 to the second destination. Specifically, the suggestion unit 18 determines whether or not the cruising distance is shorter than the route distance, or whether or not the cruising distance is longer than the route distance and the difference between the cruising distance and the route distance is equal to or less than a predetermined distance. The cruising distance is a distance that the moving object 2 is estimated to be able to continue traveling without replenishing the power source.

[0062] The cruising distance is calculated based on the remaining power source. The route distance is the distance from the current location of the mobile object 2 to the second destination via the first destination. If the cruising distance is sufficient, i.e., if the cruising distance is longer than the route distance and the difference between the cruising distance and the route distance exceeds a predetermined distance, it means that the mobile object 2 can reach the second destination with a sufficient remaining power source. Hereinafter, the predetermined distance related to condition 7 is also referred to as the "third predetermined distance."

[0063] The suggestion unit 18 may determine that condition 7 is satisfied, for example, when the route distance is 75% or more of the available range. The suggestion unit 18 calculates the available range and the route distance based on the remaining power source data, position data indicating the current location of the mobile object 2, destination information, and map data. The available range and route distance may be calculated by the navigation unit 17. The suggestion unit 18 determines whether or not condition 7 is satisfied when the mobile object 2 approaches the first destination within a first predetermined distance. By basing the suggestion unit 18 on condition 7, it is possible to prevent replenishment suggestion information 38 from being output at unnecessary times.

[0064] The suggestion unit 18 acquires replenishment facility information from the map data to determine whether or not the condition 8 is satisfied. In this embodiment, the suggestion unit 18 acquires the replenishment facility information when the mobile object 2 approaches the first destination within a first predetermined distance. The suggestion unit 18 obtains the number of replenishment facilities along the route based on the replenishment facility information, position data indicating the current location of the mobile object 2, and the destination information.

[0065] For example, along the route means a range facing the set route. For example, along the route means a range of 50 m to 500 m in the width direction of the road centered on the set route. If the information output device 1 has a known search function that can search for facilities along the route, the suggestion unit 18 may obtain the number of replenishable facilities according to the operation of the search function.

[0066] Even if the information output device 1 has the above-mentioned publicly known search function, the suggestion unit 18 may obtain the number of replenishment-possible facilities along the route by expanding the search range beyond that of the search function. If the information output device 1 does not have the above-mentioned publicly known search function, the suggestion unit 18 may obtain the number of replenishment-possible facilities along the route within a range centered on the current location of the mobile object 2. This range is, for example, a range with a radius of 500 m centered on the current location of the mobile object 2. The predetermined number is, for example, 1 or more and 50 or less.

[0067] To determine whether or not condition 9 is satisfied, the proposing unit 18 determines whether or not stormy weather is forecasted around the current location of the moving object 2 or along the route beyond the current location within a predetermined time. The predetermined time is, for example, a time that is at least one hour and at most 24 hours after the current time. Stormy weather refers to bad weather conditions such as rainfall, heavy rain, snowfall, heavy snowfall, gusts of wind, typhoons, etc., rather than sunny or cloudy weather.

[0068] When the moving object 2 approaches the first destination within a first predetermined distance, the suggestion unit 18 acquires weather information from the weather server 4 via the second communication control unit 16. Based on the weather information, the suggestion unit 18 determines whether or not there is a forecast that the weather will worsen in the future around the current location of the moving object 2.

[0069] To determine whether or not the condition 10 is satisfied, the suggestion unit 18 acquires recharge facility information about one or more rechargeable facilities in the vicinity of the current location of the mobile object 2 from the map data. When the power source is electricity, the suggestion unit 18 determines whether or not there is a charging facility of a type frequently used by the user in the vicinity of the current location of the mobile object 2 based on the recharge facility information. Information indicating the types of charging facilities that have been used so far is stored, for example, in the non-volatile storage device described above. Based on such stored information, the suggestion unit 18 determines the frequency of use of the charging facility by the user for each type.

[0070] In addition, when the frequency of use varies, the suggestion unit 18 may target all types of charging facilities. The type of charging facility is determined, for example, based on the maximum output of the charger and the type of the installed facility. Examples of the installed facility include convenience stores, public facilities, dealers, service areas, and parking areas. In addition, when the user frequently uses the charging facility search function on a daily basis and sets a narrowing down condition for charging facilities, it is preferable to operate according to the condition. Information on this condition is stored, for example, in the non-volatile storage device described above. When the moving object 2 approaches the first destination within a first predetermined distance, the suggestion unit 18 determines whether the condition 10 is satisfied.

[0071] As described above, the suggestion unit 18 may perform the supplement suggestion process when each of the conditions is satisfied in the following combinations.

[0072] Condition 1 and Condition 2 and Condition 3 Condition 1 and Condition 2 and Condition 4 Condition 1 and Condition 2 and Condition 3 and Condition 5 and Condition 6 and Condition 7 Condition 1 and Condition 2 and Condition 4 and Condition 5 and Condition 6 and Condition 7 Condition 1 and Condition 2 and Condition 3 and Condition 5 and Condition 6 and Condition 8 Condition 1 and Condition 2 and Condition 4 and Condition 5 and Condition 6 and Condition 8 Condition 1 and Condition 2 and Condition 3 and Condition 5 and Condition 6 and Condition 9 Condition 1 and Condition 2 and Condition 4 and Condition 5 and Condition 6 and Condition 9 Condition 1 and Condition 2 and Condition 3 and Condition 5 and Condition 6 and Condition 10 Condition 1 and Condition 2 and Condition 4 and Condition 5 and Condition 6 and Condition 10

[0073] Note that the suggestion unit 18 may perform the replenishment suggestion process in cases other than those described above. For example, the suggestion unit 18 may perform the replenishment suggestion process only when all of conditions 1 to 10 are satisfied.

[0074] The output control unit 19 outputs the replenishment suggestion information 38 to the output device 12. When the suggestion unit 18 determines that a predetermined condition is satisfied, the output control unit 19 outputs the replenishment suggestion information 38 to the output device 12. In this embodiment, the screen 34 related to the replenishment suggestion information 38 includes a map area 32 and a suggestion information area 33, as shown in Fig. 2. The map area 32 displays a map 31.

[0075] The map 31 indicates the current location of the moving object 2 with a current location mark 35. The map 31 indicates the first destination and the second destination with goal icons 36. The map 31 indicates POIs with various icons. Specifically, the map 31 indicates the location of replenishment-possible facilities with replenishment-possible facility marks 39. The map 31 indicates the route set by the navigation unit 17 with a route figure 37. The route figure 37 is a long and thin figure arranged along the road shown on the map 31. The route figure 37 is a different color from the road shown on the map 31.

[0076] In this embodiment, the replenishment suggestion information 38 includes text data suggesting replenishment of the power source. The replenishment suggestion information 38 may include text data indicating reasons for recommending replenishment. The replenishment suggestion information 38 may include text data indicating a distance along a route from a current location of the mobile object 2 to the first destination.

[0077] The replenishment suggestion information 38 may include text data for confirming with the user whether or not recommended replenishment facilities should be displayed on the output device 12. When the replenishment suggestion information 38 includes such confirmation text data, the screen 34 includes buttons 40 for the user to respond to the replenishment suggestion information 38. The buttons 40 each show, for example, the characters "Yes" or "No."

[0078] In this embodiment, the supplement suggestion information 38 indicates, for example, the following contents:

[0079] "Your destination is approximately XX km away. ####, so we recommend you charge your vehicle before arriving to ensure a smooth next journey. Would you like to see recommended charging facilities?"

[0080] In the above example, "destination" refers to the first destination. "XX" indicates the distance along the route from the current location of the mobile object 2 to the first destination. "####" indicates the reason why charging is recommended before arriving at the first destination. The reasons may be, for example, because worsening weather is expected, because the distance to the next destination is long, or because there are few refueling facilities along the route to the next destination, etc.

[0081] The output control unit 19 may be configured to output not only text data but also voice data to confirm whether or not to search for recommended replenishment facilities. Alternatively, the output control unit 19 may be configured to output both text data and voice data to confirm.

[0082] When the user desires to search for a recommended replenishment facility, the output control unit 19 may, for example, display a replenishment facility list (not shown) on the output device 12. The replenishment facility list is a list of information on one or more replenishment facilities in the vicinity of the current location of the mobile object 2. This information may be information indicating, for example, the name, location, type of charger, business hours, etc. of the replenishment facility.

[0083] The replenishment-possible facilities shown in the replenishment-possible facility list are the replenishment-possible facilities that the suggestion unit 18 recognized when determining whether or not the condition 10 is satisfied. When a replenishment-possible facility is selected from the replenishment-possible facility list by the user, the output control unit 19 displays on the output device 12 a map 31 showing a route to reach the first destination via the replenishment-possible facility, as shown in FIG. 4. When the user does not wish to search for a replenishment-possible facility, the output control unit 19 continues guidance to the first destination without changing the set route. The output control unit 19 continues guidance to the first destination even when there is no operation on the input device 11 for a certain period of time.

[0084] The information output device 1 as described above is a computer. In this embodiment, the first communication control unit 15, the second communication control unit 16, the navigation unit 17, the suggestion unit 18, and the output control unit 19 are realized by, for example, a hardware processor such as a CPU executing a software program stored in the storage device 13.

[0085] In addition, some or all of the components of the information output device 1 may be implemented using LSI (Large Scale Integration) or ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit). Integrated Circuit), FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array), GPU (Graphics Processing) The above-mentioned configuration may be realized by hardware such as a hardware unit (CPU), or may be realized by a combination of software and hardware.

[0086] The software program may be stored in advance in a storage device 13 such as a HDD or a flash memory, or may be stored in a removable storage medium such as a DVD or a CD-ROM. The software program may be installed in the information output device 1 by mounting such a storage medium in the information output device 1.

[0087] <<Replenishment proposal processing>> The suggestion unit 18 performs a replenishment suggestion process through the operations shown in the flowchart of Fig. 5. The replenishment suggestion process is started when the first destination is set.

[0088] In step S1, the suggestion unit 18 determines whether the mobile object 2 has approached the first destination to within a first predetermined distance while the navigation unit 17 is guiding the mobile object 2 along a route. If the mobile object 2 has approached the first destination to within the first predetermined distance during route guidance (S1: Yes), the suggestion unit 18 advances the replenishment suggestion process to step S2. If route guidance is not being performed or the mobile object 2 has not approached the first destination to within the first predetermined distance (S1: No), the suggestion unit 18 advances to step S5.

[0089] In step S2, the suggestion unit 18 determines whether the first destination is a replenishment facility or home. If the first destination is a replenishment facility or home (S2: Yes), the suggestion unit 18 proceeds to step S5. If the first destination is not a replenishment facility or home (S2: No), the suggestion unit 18 proceeds to step S3.

[0090] In step S3, the suggestion unit 18 determines whether or not a second destination is set. If a second destination is set (S3: Yes), the suggestion unit 18 proceeds to step S5. If a second destination is not set (S3: No), the suggestion unit 18 proceeds to step S4.

[0091] In step S4, the suggestion unit 18 determines whether the distance from the departure point or home of the mobile object 2 to the first destination is equal to or greater than a second predetermined distance. If this distance is equal to or greater than the second predetermined distance (S4: Yes), the suggestion unit 18 proceeds to step S5. If this distance is less than the second predetermined distance (S4: No), the suggestion unit 18 ends the replenishment suggestion process without outputting replenishment suggestion information.

[0092] In step S5, the suggestion unit 18 determines whether the remaining amount of the power source is equal to or less than a predetermined ratio. If the remaining amount of the power source is equal to or less than the predetermined ratio (S5: Yes), the suggestion unit 18 proceeds to step S9. If the remaining amount of the power source is greater than the predetermined ratio (S5: No), the suggestion unit 18 proceeds to step S6.

[0093] In step S6, the suggestion unit 18 determines whether or not the cruising distance based on the remaining power source is insufficient with respect to the distance from the current location of the moving object 2 to the second destination. If the cruising distance is insufficient (S6: Yes), the suggestion unit 18 proceeds to step S9. If the cruising distance is sufficient (S6: No), the suggestion unit 18 proceeds to step S7.

[0094] In step S7, the suggestion unit 18 determines whether the number of replenishment facilities along the route to the second destination or the starting point is less than a predetermined number. If the number of replenishment facilities is less than the predetermined number (S7: Yes), the suggestion unit 18 proceeds to step S9. If the number of replenishment facilities is equal to or greater than the predetermined number (S7: No), the suggestion unit 18 proceeds to step S8.

[0095] In step S8, the suggestion unit 18 determines whether or not bad weather is forecasted for a predetermined time from the current time around the current location of the mobile object 2 and along the route from the current location to the second destination. If bad weather is forecasted (S8: Yes), the suggestion unit 18 proceeds to step S9. If bad weather is not forecasted (S8: No), the suggestion unit 18 ends the replenishment suggestion process without outputting replenishment suggestion information.

[0096] In step S9, the output control unit 19 outputs the replenishment suggestion information 38 to the output device 12, and the process proceeds to step S10.

[0097] In step S10, the suggestion unit 18 determines whether or not there is an instruction from the user to search for a replenishment facility. If there is an instruction (S10: Yes), the navigation unit 17 performs a search process for a replenishment facility in step S11 and ends the replenishment suggestion process. If there is no instruction to search for a replenishment facility (S10: No), the navigation unit 17 ends the replenishment suggestion process without outputting replenishment suggestion information. Note that the operations shown in the above flowchart are only an example. For example, the replenishment suggestion process may further include an operation based on at least one of the above-mentioned conditions 6 and 10.

[0098] As described above, the information output device 1 of the present embodiment includes the output device 12 and the control device 14. The output device 12 outputs at least one of image data, text data, and audio data. When a predetermined condition is satisfied, the control device 14 causes the output device 12 to output replenishment suggestion information 38. The replenishment suggestion information 38 is information that encourages replenishment of a power source.

[0099] The power source moves the moving body 2. The conditions include condition 1 and condition 2. Condition 1 is that a first destination and a second destination are set as destinations of the moving body 2. The second destination is a destination to which the moving body 2 aims after arriving at the first destination. Condition 2 is that the moving body 2 approaches the first destination within a first predetermined distance.

[0100] In this embodiment, the predetermined condition further includes condition 3. Condition 3 is that the first destination is not a replenishment facility. A replenishment facility is a facility where a power source can be replenished to the mobile body 2. The control device 14 acquires destination information. The destination information indicates a set destination. The control device 14 is configured not to output replenishment suggestion information 38 when the first destination is a replenishment facility.

[0101] In this embodiment, the predetermined condition further includes condition 7. Condition 7 is that the cruising distance is shorter than the route distance, or the difference between the cruising distance and the route distance is equal to or less than a predetermined distance. The cruising distance is the distance that the moving body 2 is estimated to be able to continue traveling with the remaining power source. The route distance is the distance from the current location of the moving body 2 to the second destination. When the moving body 2 approaches the first destination within a predetermined distance, the control device 14 acquires remaining power data and calculates the cruising distance.

[0102] Furthermore, when the mobile object 2 approaches the first destination within a predetermined distance, the control device 14 acquires the position data and calculates the route distance. The remaining amount data indicates the remaining amount of the power source. The position data indicates the current location of the mobile object 2. The control device 14 is configured not to output replenishment suggestion information 38 when the cruising distance is longer than the route distance by more than a predetermined distance.

[0103] In this embodiment, the predetermined condition further includes condition 8. Condition 8 is that the number of replenishment-possible facilities along the route from the first destination to the second destination is less than a predetermined number. The control device 14 acquires replenishment facility information when the mobile body 2 approaches the first destination to within a first predetermined distance. The replenishment facility information relates to replenishment-possible facilities along the route from the first destination to the second destination. The control device 14 does not perform replenishment suggestion processing when the number of such replenishment-possible facilities is equal to or greater than the predetermined number.

[0104] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the predetermined conditions further include condition 9. Condition 9 is that bad weather is forecast for the current location of the mobile object 2 or along the route beyond the current location. The control device 14 acquires weather information when the mobile object 2 approaches the first destination within a first predetermined distance. The control device 14 is configured not to output replenishment suggestion information 38 if bad weather is not forecast for the vicinity of the current location of the mobile object 2 or along the route beyond the current location within a predetermined time.

[0105] On the other hand, as a comparative example, there is a navigation system for EVs (Electric Vehicles) that is equipped with a function that suggests charging according to the driving range and automatically sets the time to stop at charging facilities when the destination is set. However, it does not solve the following problems, and it is not used.

[0106] You want to leave early for your next destination, but the battery is low and you have to charge it, which is annoying. -You are directed to a charging facility you don't want to go to. Even if you follow the directions on your navigation system, you may be worried about whether you will be able to reach a charging station. It's hot, so charging the battery in the middle of a trip takes a long time and is a hassle. It's cold in the mornings in winter, so you want to charge efficiently while the car is warm by driving.

[0107] As a comparative example, there is a navigation system that has a function of providing voice guidance to encourage charging when arriving at home "for the purpose of eco-driving next time," but this system has the following problems.

[0108] - It's inconvenient if you are only told about charging when you arrive home. The purpose is not eco-driving, but energy replenishment. In other words, the car cannot be driven without charging.

[0109] In contrast, the information output device 1 of this embodiment can suggest replenishment facilities in the vicinity of the first destination, which is an intermediate destination currently being guided, immediately before arriving at the first destination, which is a stopover. In other words, the information output device 1 can suggest places where the power source can be replenished in advance before starting guidance from the first destination to the second destination.

[0110] Furthermore, the information output device 1 determines whether or not to suggest replenishment facilities based not only on the remaining amount of the power source but also on at least one of the state including the temperature of the power source unit 22, the outside temperature, the weather, the current time, and the type of destination, and can provide guidance recommending replenishment of the power source and provide a list of replenishment facilities only when replenishment before arriving is recommended. In other words, the information output device 1 can only recommend when "it would be better to replenish the power source now" and can suppress the replenishment suggestion process when "it would be better not to replenish the power source now" or when "it would be better to do it on the way".

[0111] The information output device 1 can be used in a situation where, for example, a route is drawn in advance with a plan to head to a hot spring inn and then to a tourist spot the next day, and the remaining power source has enough power to reach the hot spring inn, but may not be enough to reach the tourist spot the next day. When approaching the hot spring inn, if any of the following situations occur and there are recommended facilities that can be replenished depending on the battery condition including the temperature and the weather, the information output device 1 outputs to the output device 12 a voice guidance urging replenishment and a list of facilities to urge replenishment, and urges replenishment of the power source.

[0112] -You can use the inn's replenishment facilities. -There is a facility nearby that can quickly replenish supplies

[0113] In the information output device 1 of this embodiment, for example, when the power source cannot be replenished at the first destination itself or when there is no facility nearby where it can be replenished, the information output device 1 of this embodiment can smoothly transition the mobile object 2 to the next activity without bothering to replenish the battery in the vicinity of the first destination. For example, this improves convenience when going on a trip and wanting to charge the battery in the vicinity of the lodging place during the day and go sightseeing early the next day.

[0114] The information output device 1 as described above can achieve the following objectives and solve the following problems.

[0115] The technology in the comparative example cannot fully meet the need to "depart smoothly for the next destination and arrive there quickly after arriving at the stopover point." - Smoothly transition to the "next activity." For example, if you want to go on a trip and charge your phone around your accommodation during the day, and then go sightseeing early the next day, this is effective not only for leisure but also for business trips. If there is a facility at the stopover point where you can replenish your supplies, you should use it if possible. Depending on the situation, a suggestion is made to efficiently replenish the power source. Depending on the state of the moving object 2, the weather, the temperature, etc., a suggestion to replenish the power source is not made. Therefore, the information output device 1 can efficiently charge even a relatively inexpensive electric vehicle that does not actively manage the battery temperature. - Based on the weather forecast for the next day, if it is forecast to rain, it will suggest charging the phone now so that you don't have to charge it in the rain.

[0116] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the device configuration, control method, and the like are not limited to the above-described embodiments.

[0117] For example, in this embodiment, the output device 12 outputs the replenishment suggestion information 38 as text data, but is not limited to this configuration. The information output device 1 may be configured to output the replenishment suggestion information 38 as voice.

[0118] The information output device 1 of this embodiment includes an input device 11, an output device 12, a storage device 13, and a control device 14, but is not limited to this configuration. For example, the information output device 1 may be configured to not include at least one of the input device 11 and the storage device 13. In this case, the information output device 1 is configured to, for example, obtain replenishment suggestion information 38 from a server (not shown) and output it to the output device 12. Furthermore, the control device 14 may be configured to not include at least one of the first communication control unit 15, the second communication control unit 16, the navigation unit 17, and the suggestion unit 18.

[0119] Other configurations can be modified in various ways without departing from the spirit of the present invention. For example, the present invention also includes a combination of part or all of the configurations of the above-mentioned embodiment and modified examples. For example, the present invention may be a program that causes a computer to function as an output device that outputs at least one of image data, text data, and audio data, and a control device that causes the output device to output proposal information that prompts the replenishment of a power source for moving a moving body when a predetermined condition is satisfied, the condition including that a first destination and a second destination to which the moving body that has arrived at the first destination is aimed are set as destinations of the moving body, and that the moving body has approached the first destination within a predetermined distance, or a recording medium on which the program is recorded. [Explanation of symbols]

[0120] 1. Information output device 2. Mobile 12 Output Devices 14 Control device 38 Replenishment proposal information

Claims

1. an output device that outputs at least one of image data, text data, and audio data; a control device that outputs, when a predetermined condition is satisfied, replenishment suggestion information to the output device that prompts the user to replenish a power source that moves the moving object; The conditions include: a first destination and a second destination to which the moving body is heading after arriving at the first destination are set as destinations of the moving body; the moving body has approached a position within a first predetermined distance from the first destination; the first destination is not a replenishment facility that can replenish the power source to the moving body; and a cruising distance that is estimated to allow the moving body to continue traveling with the remaining amount of the power source is shorter than a route distance from the current location of the moving body to the second destination, or the cruising distance is longer than the route distance and the difference between the cruising distance and the route distance is equal to or less than a third predetermined distance. The control device includes: When the moving body approaches a position within the first predetermined distance from the first destination, remaining power data indicating a remaining power of the power source is acquired to calculate the cruising distance, and position data indicating the current location of the moving body is acquired to calculate the route distance; When the cruising distance is longer than the route distance and the difference therebetween is equal to or greater than the third predetermined distance, the replenishment suggestion information is not output.

1. An information output device comprising:

2. The condition further includes that there are fewer than a predetermined number of replenishable facilities along a route from the first destination to the second destination; The control device includes: When the mobile object approaches a position within the first predetermined distance from the first destination, replenishment facility information is acquired regarding the replenishment-available facilities along the route from the first destination to the second destination; 2. The information output device according to claim 1, wherein when the number of said replenishment-possible facilities is greater than said predetermined number, said replenishment suggestion information is not output.

3. The condition further includes that severe weather is forecast for the current location of the moving object or along the route beyond the current location, The control device includes: When the moving object approaches the first destination to a position within the first predetermined distance, weather information is acquired; 3. The information output device according to claim 2, wherein the replenishment suggestion information is not output if bad weather is not forecast for the current location of the mobile object or along the route beyond the current location within a predetermined period from the current time.

4. An information output control method for a control device that outputs replenishment suggestion information encouraging replenishment of a power source that moves a moving body to an output device that outputs at least one of image data, text data, and voice data, comprising: A step of accepting settings of a first destination as a destination of the moving body and a second destination to which the moving body aims upon arriving at the first destination; acquiring location data indicating a current location of the mobile object; acquiring remaining amount data indicating a remaining amount of the power source when the moving body approaches a position that is a first predetermined distance away from the first destination; calculating a cruising distance that the moving body is estimated to be able to continue traveling with the remaining power of the power source; calculating a route distance from the current location to the second destination based on the acquired position data; When a predetermined condition is satisfied, the output device outputs replenishment suggestion information that prompts the user to replenish a power source that moves the moving object; The conditions include that the first destination and the second destination are set, that the moving body has approached the first destination to within a first predetermined distance, that the first destination is not a replenishment facility that can replenish the power source to the moving body, and that the cruising distance is shorter than a route distance from a current location of the moving body to the second destination, or that the cruising distance is longer than the route distance and a difference between the cruising distance and the route distance is equal to or less than a third predetermined distance. Information output control method.

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