Vehicle, information processing system, program, and information processing device

Abstract

To make it possible to accurately place a package at a location desired by a user.SOLUTION: A vehicle 20 that autonomously delivers a package includes a control unit 26 that acquires designation information generated in accordance with designation by a user on a placement location for delivery of a package, and drives, when the placement location designated by the user is identified by matching the placement location based on the acquired designation information, the vehicle 20 to place the package at the placement location for delivery of the package.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a vehicle, an information processing system, a program, and an information processing device. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, a technology for automatically delivering parcels using an autonomous vehicle is known. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses an autonomous delivery system that more appropriately presents a parcel delivery point to a user. Such an autonomous delivery system determines a first delivery candidate point or a second delivery candidate point as a delivery point, and presents the determined delivery point to a user before an autonomous vehicle starts delivering the parcel toward the determined delivery point. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2020-181287 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, the conventional technology does not fully consider the delivery to a location where a user is not at home to receive the package, for example. It is desirable to deliver the package to a location where the user desires.

[0005] The present disclosure provides technology that allows users to place packages exactly where they want them. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A vehicle according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is a vehicle that autonomously delivers parcels, and is equipped with a control unit that acquires designation information generated in response to a user's designation of a delivery location for the delivery of the parcel, and, upon identifying the delivery location designated by the user by matching the delivery location based on the acquired designation information, drives the vehicle to place the parcel at the delivery location.

[0007] A program according to one embodiment of the present disclosure causes a vehicle that autonomously delivers parcels to perform operations including acquiring designation information generated in response to a user's designation of a delivery location for the delivery of the parcel, matching the delivery location based on the acquired designation information, identifying the delivery location designated by the user by matching the delivery location, and, upon identifying the delivery location, driving the vehicle to place the parcel at the delivery location.

[0008] An information processing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is an information processing device that is communicatively connected to a vehicle that autonomously delivers luggage, and is equipped with a control unit that acquires designation information generated in response to a user's designation of a delivery location for the delivery of the luggage, and when the delivery location designated by the user is identified by matching the delivery location based on the acquired designation information, drives the vehicle to place the luggage at the delivery location. Effect of the Invention

[0009] According to an embodiment of the vehicle, information processing system, program, and information processing device of the present disclosure, it is possible to accurately place and distribute luggage in a location desired by a user. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] 1 is a configuration diagram showing a configuration of an information processing system including a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 2] 2 is a functional block diagram showing schematic configurations of an information processing device, a vehicle, and a terminal device in FIG. 1. [Diagram 3] 1. FIG. 4 is a sequence diagram for explaining a first embodiment of an information processing method executed by the information processing system of FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a first schematic diagram for explaining the process content of step S106 in FIG. 3. [Diagram 5] 4 is a flowchart for explaining a first example of an information processing method executed by the vehicle of FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. 4 is a second schematic diagram for explaining the process content of step S106 in FIG. 3. [Figure 7] 5 is a flowchart for explaining a second example of an information processing method executed by the vehicle of FIG. [Figure 8] 1. FIG. 4 is a sequence diagram for explaining a second embodiment of an information processing method executed by the information processing system of FIG. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram for explaining the series of processing steps in FIG. 8. [Figure 10] 13 is a flowchart for explaining a third example of an information processing method executed by the vehicle of FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0011] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0012] Fig. 1 is a configuration diagram showing a configuration of an information processing system 1 including a vehicle 20 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. An overview of the information processing system 1 including the vehicle 20 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will be mainly described with reference to Fig. 1. The information processing system 1 has an information processing device 10 and a terminal device 30 in addition to the vehicle 20.

[0013] For ease of explanation, only one vehicle 20 is illustrated in Fig. 1, but the number of vehicles 20 included in the information processing system 1 may be two or more. For ease of explanation, one information processing device 10 and one terminal device 30 are illustrated in Fig. 1, but the number of information processing devices 10 and terminal devices 30 included in the information processing system 1 may be two or more. Each of the information processing device 10, the vehicle 20, and the terminal device 30 is communicably connected to a network 40 including a mobile communication network and the Internet.

[0014] The information processing device 10 is one or more server devices that can communicate with each other. The information processing device 10 is not limited to these, and may be any general-purpose electronic device such as a PC (Personal Computer) or a smartphone, or may be another electronic device dedicated to the information processing system 1.

[0015] The vehicle 20 includes any electric vehicle that moves between points by autonomous driving. The vehicle 20 includes, for example, a small delivery vehicle that delivers packages autonomously without a driver. The vehicle 20 is not limited to this, and may include any electric vehicle that runs autonomously with a driver.

[0016] The vehicle 20 autonomously delivers a package to at least one delivery destination. When the vehicle 20 arrives at the delivery destination, the vehicle 20 hands over the package addressed to the user as the recipient of the delivery destination to the user. When the vehicle 20 is unable to directly hand over the package to the user due to reasons such as the user being absent at the delivery destination, the vehicle 20 leaves the package at a location designated by the user, or takes the package back as necessary without leaving it there.

[0017] The terminal device 30 is a general-purpose electronic device such as a smartphone or a PC. The terminal device 30 is, for example, an electronic device used by a user who receives a package delivered by the vehicle 20. The terminal device 30 is not limited to these, and may be one or multiple server devices capable of communicating with each other used by a user who receives a package delivered by the vehicle 20, or may be an electronic device dedicated to the information processing system 1.

[0018] As an overview of one embodiment, the vehicle 20 autonomously delivers parcels. The vehicle 20 acquires designation information generated in response to a user's designation of a location for delivery of the parcel. In this specification, "delivery to location" means that, for example, when a user at the delivery destination is unable to receive the parcel directly due to absence or other reasons, the vehicle 20 leaves the parcel at a location designated by the user, thereby completing the delivery. The "designated information" includes, for example, any information that enables the vehicle 20 to identify a location designated by the user when delivering the parcel. When the vehicle 20 identifies the location designated by the user by checking the location based on the acquired designation information, the vehicle 20 places the parcel at the location.

[0019] Fig. 2 is a functional block diagram showing a schematic configuration of each of the information processing device 10, the vehicle 20, and the terminal device 30 in Fig. 1. With reference to Fig. 2, an example of the configuration of each of the information processing device 10, the vehicle 20, and the terminal device 30 included in the information processing system 1 will be mainly described.

[0020] As shown in FIG. 2, the information processing device 10 includes a communication unit 11, a storage unit 12, and a control unit 13.

[0021] The communication unit 11 includes a communication module that connects to the network 40. For example, the communication unit 11 includes a communication module that supports mobile communication standards or Internet standards such as 4G (4th Generation) and 5G (5th Generation). In one embodiment, the information processing device 10 is connected to the network 40 via the communication unit 11. The communication unit 11 transmits and receives various information via the network 40.

[0022] The storage unit 12 is, for example, but not limited to, a semiconductor memory, a magnetic memory, or an optical memory. The storage unit 12 functions as a main storage device, an auxiliary storage device, or a cache memory. The storage unit 12 stores any information used in the operation of the information processing device 10. The storage unit 12 stores system programs, application programs, and various information received or transmitted by the communication unit 11. The information stored in the storage unit 12 can be updated with information received from the network 40 via the communication unit 11.

[0023] The control unit 13 includes one or more processors. In one embodiment, the "processor" is a general-purpose processor or a dedicated processor specialized for a specific process, but is not limited thereto. The control unit 13 is communicably connected to each component of the information processing device 10, and controls the operation of the information processing device 10 as a whole.

[0024] The following mainly describes the configuration of vehicle 20 included in information processing system 1. As shown in Fig. 2, vehicle 20 has communication unit 21, storage unit 22, acquisition unit 23, imaging unit 24, drive unit 25, and control unit 26. Communication unit 21, storage unit 22, acquisition unit 23, imaging unit 24, drive unit 25, and control unit 26 are connected to each other so as to be able to communicate with each other via, for example, a dedicated line.

[0025] The communication unit 21 includes a communication module that connects to the network 40. For example, the communication unit 21 includes a communication module that supports mobile communication standards such as 4G and 5G. In one embodiment, the vehicle 20 is connected to the network 40 via the communication unit 21. The communication unit 21 transmits and receives various information via the network 40.

[0026] The storage unit 22 is, for example, but not limited to, a semiconductor memory, a magnetic memory, or an optical memory. The storage unit 22 functions as a main storage device, an auxiliary storage device, or a cache memory. The storage unit 22 stores any information used in the operation of the vehicle 20. The storage unit 22 stores system programs, application programs, and various information received or transmitted by the communication unit 21. The information stored in the storage unit 22 can be updated with information received from the network 40 via the communication unit 21.

[0027] The acquisition unit 23 includes one or more receivers compatible with any satellite positioning system. For example, the acquisition unit 23 includes a GPS (Global Positioning System) receiver. The acquisition unit 23 acquires measurement values ​​of the position of the vehicle 20 as position information. The position information includes an address, latitude, longitude, and altitude. The acquisition unit 23 is capable of acquiring the position information of the vehicle 20. The acquisition unit 23 may acquire the position information of the vehicle 20 constantly, or may acquire the position information periodically or non-periodically.

[0028] The imaging unit 24 includes any imaging module capable of capturing an image of the surroundings of the vehicle 20. For example, the imaging unit 24 includes one or more cameras. Each camera included in the imaging unit 24 is disposed at an appropriate position of the vehicle 20 so as to be able to capture an image of the surroundings of the vehicle 20. For example, the imaging unit 24 includes at least one of a front camera capable of capturing an image of a subject in front of the vehicle 20 and a rear camera capable of capturing an image of a subject behind the vehicle 20. Without being limited thereto, the imaging unit 24 may include an omnidirectional camera capable of capturing an image of the entire surroundings of the vehicle 20.

[0029] The drive unit 25 includes any drive mechanism that enables loading of luggage onto the vehicle 20, delivery of the luggage loaded onto the vehicle 20 to a user, and unloading of the luggage loaded onto the vehicle 20 to a storage location. For example, the drive unit 25 includes at least one of an arm mechanism driven by a motor and a slide mechanism that can linearly slide luggage and can be inserted into and removed from the main body of the vehicle 20.

[0030] The control unit 26 includes one or more processors. In one embodiment, the "processor" may be, but is not limited to, a general-purpose processor or a dedicated processor specialized for a specific process. The control unit 26 is communicatively connected to each component of the vehicle 20 and controls the operation of the entire vehicle 20.

[0031] The following mainly describes the configuration of the terminal device 30 included in the information processing system 1. As shown in Fig. 2, the terminal device 30 has a communication unit 31, a storage unit 32, an input unit 33, an output unit , an imaging unit 35, and a control unit .

[0032] The communication unit 31 includes a communication module that connects to the network 40. For example, the communication unit 31 includes a communication module that supports mobile communication standards or Internet standards such as 4G and 5G. In one embodiment, the terminal device 30 is connected to the network 40 via the communication unit 31. The communication unit 31 transmits and receives various information via the network 40.

[0033] The storage unit 32 is, for example, but not limited to, a semiconductor memory, a magnetic memory, or an optical memory. The storage unit 32 functions as a main storage device, an auxiliary storage device, or a cache memory. The storage unit 32 stores any information used in the operation of the terminal device 30. The storage unit 32 stores system programs, application programs, and various information received or transmitted by the communication unit 31. The information stored in the storage unit 32 can be updated with information received from the network 40 via the communication unit 31.

[0034] The input unit 33 includes one or more input interfaces that detect a user input and acquire input information based on a user operation. For example, the input unit 33 includes physical keys, capacitive keys, a touch screen that is integrated with the display of the output unit 34, and a microphone that accepts voice input.

[0035] The output unit 34 includes one or more output interfaces that output information to notify the user. For example, the output unit 34 includes a display that outputs information as a video and a speaker that outputs information as a sound.

[0036] The imaging unit 35 includes any imaging module capable of capturing an image of the periphery of the terminal device 30. For example, the imaging unit 35 includes one or more cameras. Each camera included in the imaging unit 35 is disposed at an appropriate position of the terminal device 30 so as to be able to capture an image of the periphery of the terminal device 30. For example, the imaging unit 35 includes at least one of an out-camera capable of capturing an image of a subject on the opposite side to the user holding the terminal device 30, and an in-camera capable of capturing an image of a subject on the side of the user holding the terminal device 30. Without being limited thereto, the imaging unit 35 may include an omnidirectional camera capable of capturing an image of the entire periphery of the terminal device 30.

[0037] The control unit 36 ​​includes one or more processors. In one embodiment, the "processor" is a general-purpose processor or a dedicated processor specialized for a specific process, but is not limited thereto. The control unit 36 ​​is communicably connected to each component of the terminal device 30 and controls the operation of the entire terminal device 30.

[0038] (First embodiment) Fig. 3 is a sequence diagram for explaining a first embodiment of an information processing method executed by the information processing system 1 of Fig. 1. The first embodiment of the information processing method executed by the information processing system 1 of Fig. 1 will be mainly explained with reference to Fig. 3. The sequence diagram shown in Fig. 3 shows a basic process flow of the information processing method executed by the information processing system 1.

[0039] In step S100, the control unit 36 ​​of the terminal device 30 generates delivery information regarding delivery of a package to the user by the vehicle 20. In this specification, "delivery information" includes, for example, the address of the delivery destination, the name of the user as the package recipient, the telephone number and e-mail address of the user, and the name of the package to be delivered. The control unit 36 ​​generates the delivery information by displaying on the output unit 34 a screen for the user to input the delivery information, and accepting an input operation by the user who inputs the delivery information using the input unit 33 while viewing the screen.

[0040] In step S101, the control unit 36 ​​of the terminal device 30 generates designated information in response to a user's designation of a location for delivery of a package. The control unit 36 ​​generates the designated information by displaying a screen required for generating the designated information on the output unit 34 and accepting an input operation by the user who determines the designated information using the input unit 33 while viewing the screen.

[0041] In step S102, the control unit 36 ​​of the terminal device 30 transmits the delivery information generated in step S100 and the designation information generated in step S101 to the information processing device 10 via the communication unit 31 and the network 40. As a result, the control unit 13 of the information processing device 10 acquires the delivery information and the designation information from the terminal device 30.

[0042] In step S103, the control unit 13 of the information processing device 10 stores in the storage unit 12 the delivery information and the specification information acquired in step S102.

[0043] In step S104, the control unit 13 of the information processing device 10 transmits the delivery information and the designation information acquired in step S102 to the vehicle 20 via the communication unit 11 and the network 40. As a result, the control unit 26 of the vehicle 20 acquires the delivery information and the designation information from the information processing device 10.

[0044] In step S105, the control unit 26 of the vehicle 20 moves the vehicle 20 to the delivery destination according to the address of the delivery destination included in the delivery information acquired in step S104.

[0045] In step S106, the control unit 26 of the vehicle 20 checks the drop-off location at the delivery destination to which the vehicle 20 moved in step S105, based on the specification information acquired in step S104.

[0046] In step S107, the control unit 26 of the vehicle 20 identifies the delivery location designated by the user by checking the delivery location in step S106.

[0047] In step S108, when the control unit 26 of the vehicle 20 identifies the delivery location in step S107, the control unit 26 drives the drive unit 25 of the vehicle 20 to place the package addressed to the delivery destination user at the delivery location.

[0048] Fig. 4 is a first schematic diagram for explaining the processing content of step S106 in Fig. 3. A first example of the processing content of step S106 in Fig. 3 will be mainly explained with reference to Fig. 4. Fig. 4 shows an image displayed on the output unit 34 of the user's terminal device 30, and is a schematic diagram showing an image of the front door of the user's home, including the delivery location that the user is going to specify, as a subject.

[0049] In a first example of the processing content of step S106 in Fig. 3, the specified information includes information of a specific position specified by a user's input operation in an image displayed on the output unit 34 of the user's terminal device 30. In this specification, "information of a specific position" includes, for example, information on the image itself displayed on the output unit 34 of the terminal device 30, as well as information that enables the vehicle 20 to identify the specific position on the image that is specified by the user's input operation. "Information that enables the vehicle 20 to identify" includes, for example, a marker such as a pointer that is attached to the specific position on the image that is specified by the user's input operation.

[0050] The images displayed on the output unit 34 of the user's terminal device 30 include images on applications installed in the user's terminal device 30 and images captured by the imaging unit 35 of the user's terminal device 30. The applications installed in the user's terminal device 30 include, for example, a map application.

[0051] When the user specifies a location for delivery of a package, the control unit 36 ​​of the terminal device 30 displays an image as shown in Fig. 4 to the user via the output unit 34. The control unit 36 ​​accepts an input operation by the user specifying a specific position on the image displayed on the output unit 34 via the input unit 33. For example, the control unit 36 ​​accepts an input operation by the user tapping on a specific position in front of the entrance to the user's home on the image as shown in Fig. 4 displayed on the output unit 34 via the input unit 33. The control unit 36 ​​generates information on the specific position on the image specified by the user's input operation as specified information.

[0052] The control unit 26 of the vehicle 20 acquires in advance the designation information generated in the above-described flow in the terminal device 30. When the vehicle 20 moves and arrives at the delivery destination, the control unit 26 captures an image of the surroundings of the vehicle 20 using the imaging unit 24 of the vehicle 20. The control unit 26 compares the image captured using the imaging unit 24 with information on a specific position on the image designated by the user using the terminal device 30, thereby executing matching of the delivery location.

[0053] More specifically, the control unit 26 compares the image captured using the imaging unit 24 with an image in which a marker such as a pointer is added to a specific position designated by a user's input operation and which has been displayed on the output unit 34 of the terminal device 30. The control unit 26 identifies a position in the image captured using the imaging unit 24 that corresponds to the specific position on the image designated by the user using the terminal device 30. In this way, the control unit 26 identifies the placement location designated by the user not only on the image but also in real space.

[0054] Fig. 5 is a flowchart for explaining a first example of an information processing method executed by vehicle 20 in Fig. 1. With reference to Fig. 5, the first example of the information processing method executed by vehicle 20 in Fig. 1 will be explained. The flowchart shown in Fig. 5 is based on the first example of the processing content of step S106 in Fig. 3 described above with reference to Fig. 4.

[0055] In step S200, the control unit 26 of the vehicle 20 acquires delivery information from the information processing device 10. The control unit 26 receives the delivery information from the information processing device 10 via the network 40 and the communication unit 21.

[0056] In step S201, the control unit 26 acquires, as designated information, information on a specific position designated by a user's input operation in an image displayed on the output unit 34 of the user's terminal device 30 from the information processing device 10. The control unit 26 receives such information on the specific position from the information processing device 10 via the network 40 and the communication unit 21.

[0057] In step S202, the control unit 26 moves the vehicle 20 to the delivery destination according to the address of the delivery destination included in the delivery information acquired in step S200.

[0058] In step S203, when the vehicle 20 moves in step S202 and arrives at the delivery destination, the control unit 26 captures an image of the surroundings of the vehicle 20 using the imaging unit 24.

[0059] In step S204, the control unit 26 compares the image captured by the imaging unit 24 in step S203 with information on a specific position on the image designated by the user using the terminal device 30. As a result, the control unit 26 checks the drop-off location at the delivery destination to which the vehicle 20 was moved in step S202 based on the designated information acquired in step S201.

[0060] In step S205, the control unit 26 identifies the delivery location designated by the user by checking the delivery location in step S204.

[0061] In step S206, when the control unit 26 identifies the delivery location in step S205, the control unit 26 drives the drive unit 25 to place the package addressed to the delivery destination user at the delivery location.

[0062] Fig. 6 is a second schematic diagram for explaining the processing content of step S106 in Fig. 3. A second example of the processing content of step S106 in Fig. 3 will be mainly explained with reference to Fig. 6. Fig. 6 shows a map application screen displayed on the output unit 34 of the user's terminal device 30, which is a map application screen including a predetermined area centered on a drop-off location that the user is going to specify.

[0063] 3, the specified information includes coordinate information specified by a user's input operation on an application installed on the user's terminal device 30. In this specification, "coordinate information" includes, for example, information such as latitude and longitude acquired on an application installed on the terminal device 30. The application installed on the user's terminal device 30 includes, for example, a map application.

[0064] When the user specifies a location for delivery of a package, the control unit 36 ​​of the terminal device 30 displays a map application screen as shown in Fig. 6 to the user via the output unit 34. The control unit 36 ​​accepts an input operation by the user specifying specific coordinates (xxxx, yyyy) on the map application screen displayed on the output unit 34 via the input unit 33. For example, the control unit 36 ​​accepts an input operation by the user tapping a specific position in front of the entrance to the user's home on the map application screen as shown in Fig. 6 displayed on the output unit 34 via the input unit 33. The control unit 36 ​​generates the coordinate information specified by the user's input operation as specified information.

[0065] The control unit 26 of the vehicle 20 acquires in advance the designation information generated in the above-described flow in the terminal device 30. When the vehicle 20 moves and arrives at the delivery destination, the control unit 26 acquires the location information of the vehicle 20 using the acquisition unit 23 of the vehicle 20. The control unit 26 compares the location information of the vehicle 20 acquired using the acquisition unit 23 with the coordinate information designated by the user using the terminal device 30, thereby executing matching of the delivery location.

[0066] More specifically, the control unit 26 identifies a location where the position information of the vehicle 20 acquired using the acquisition unit 23 matches the coordinate information specified by the user using the terminal device 30. In this way, the control unit 26 identifies the delivery location specified by the user.

[0067] Fig. 7 is a flowchart for explaining a second example of the information processing method executed by the vehicle 20 in Fig. 1. The second example of the information processing method executed by the vehicle 20 in Fig. 1 will be explained with reference to Fig. 7. The flowchart shown in Fig. 7 is based on the second example of the processing content of step S106 in Fig. 3 described above with reference to Fig. 6.

[0068] In step S300, the control unit 26 of the vehicle 20 acquires delivery information from the information processing device 10. The control unit 26 receives the delivery information from the information processing device 10 via the network 40 and the communication unit 21.

[0069] In step S301, the control unit 26 acquires, as designated information, coordinate information designated by a user's input operation on a map application screen displayed on the output unit 34 of the user's terminal device 30 from the information processing device 10. The control unit 26 receives such coordinate information from the information processing device 10 via the network 40 and the communication unit 21.

[0070] In step S302, the control unit 26 moves the vehicle 20 to the delivery destination according to the address of the delivery destination included in the delivery information acquired in step S300.

[0071] In step S303, when the vehicle 20 moves in step S302 and arrives at the delivery destination, the control unit 26 acquires the position information of the vehicle 20 using the acquisition unit 23.

[0072] In step S304, the control unit 26 compares the location information of the vehicle 20 acquired by the acquisition unit 23 in step S303 with the coordinate information designated by the user using the terminal device 30. As a result, the control unit 26 checks the drop-off location at the delivery destination to which the vehicle 20 moved in step S302 based on the designated information acquired in step S301.

[0073] In step S305, the control unit 26 identifies the delivery location designated by the user by checking the delivery location in step S304.

[0074] In step S306, when the control unit 26 identifies the delivery location in step S305, the control unit 26 drives the drive unit 25 to place the package addressed to the delivery destination user at the delivery location.

[0075] Second embodiment Fig. 8 is a sequence diagram for explaining a second embodiment of an information processing method executed by the information processing system 1 of Fig. 1. The second embodiment of the information processing method executed by the information processing system 1 of Fig. 1 will be mainly explained with reference to Fig. 8. The sequence diagram shown in Fig. 8 shows a basic process flow of the information processing method executed by the information processing system 1.

[0076] In the second embodiment, the content of the designation information differs from that in the first embodiment. In the second embodiment, the designation information includes URL (Uniform Resource Locator) information readable from a two-dimensional code placed by the user at the placement location and placement information indicating the specific placement location of the two-dimensional code, and the like. In this specification, the "two-dimensional code" includes, for example, a QR code (registered trademark) and a barcode. The "placement information" includes, for example, text information, image information, and audio information indicating the specific placement location of the two-dimensional code.

[0077] In step S400, the control unit 36 ​​of the terminal device 30 generates delivery information regarding the delivery of a package to a user by the vehicle 20. The control unit 36 ​​generates the delivery information by displaying a screen on the output unit 34 for the user to input the delivery information, and accepting an input operation by the user who inputs the delivery information using the input unit 33 while viewing the screen.

[0078] In step S401, the control unit 36 ​​of the terminal device 30 generates designated information in response to a user's designation of a location for delivery of a package. The control unit 36 ​​displays a screen required for generating the designated information on the output unit 34, and receives an input operation by the user who determines the designated information using the input unit 33 while viewing the screen, thereby generating the designated information.

[0079] For example, the control unit 36 ​​displays a screen required for generating URL information associated with a two-dimensional code that the user places at the delivery location on the output unit 34. The control unit 36 ​​generates URL information as designated information by accepting an input operation by the user who determines the URL information using the input unit 33 while viewing the screen.

[0080] For example, the control unit 36 ​​displays a screen required for generating placement information associated with a two-dimensional code that the user places at the drop-off location on the output unit 34. The control unit 36 ​​generates the placement information as designated information by accepting an input operation by the user who determines the placement information using the input unit 33 while viewing the screen.

[0081] In step S402, the control unit 36 ​​of the terminal device 30 transmits the delivery information generated in step S400 and the designation information including the URL information, placement information, etc. generated in step S401 to the information processing device 10 via the communication unit 31 and the network 40. As a result, the control unit 13 of the information processing device 10 acquires the designation information including the delivery information, the URL information, placement information, etc. from the terminal device 30.

[0082] In step S403, the control unit 13 of the information processing device 10 stores the delivery information acquired in step S402 and the designation information including the URL information and placement information in the storage unit 12. As a result, the control unit 13 stores the URL information included in the designation information acquired in step S402 in the storage unit 12 as registered URL information registered in advance by the user when designating the drop-off location.

[0083] In step S404, the control unit 13 of the information processing device 10 generates a two-dimensional code associated with the designation information including the URL information and the location information acquired in step S402.

[0084] In step S405, the control unit 13 of the information processing device 10 transmits the two-dimensional code generated in step S404 to the terminal device 30 via the communication unit 11 and the network 40. As a result, the control unit 36 ​​of the terminal device 30 acquires the two-dimensional code from the information processing device 10.

[0085] Thereafter, the user prints out the two-dimensional code displayed on the output unit 34 based on the output control by the control unit 36 ​​of the terminal device 30 onto a paper medium or the like, and places it adjacent to the delivery location designated by the user.

[0086] In step S406, the control unit 13 of the information processing device 10 transmits the delivery information acquired in step S402 to the vehicle 20 via the communication unit 11 and the network 40. As a result, the control unit 26 of the vehicle 20 acquires the delivery information from the information processing device 10.

[0087] In step S407, the control unit 26 of the vehicle 20 moves the vehicle 20 to the delivery destination according to the address of the delivery destination included in the delivery information acquired in step S406.

[0088] In step S408, the control unit 26 of the vehicle 20 reads the two-dimensional code arranged by the user after step S405 with the imaging unit 35. As a result, the control unit 26 obtains the designation information including the URL information and the arrangement information generated in step S401 from the two-dimensional code.

[0089] In step S409, control unit 26 of vehicle 20 reads out the registered URL information stored in memory unit 12 of information processing device 10 in step S403, and receives it from information processing device 10 via network 40 and communication unit 21. For example, in a case where a plurality of pieces of registered URL information are stored in memory unit 12 of information processing device 10, control unit 26 reads out the registered URL information that corresponds to the delivery information generated in step S400 and that corresponds to the URL information generated in step S401.

[0090] In step S410, control unit 26 of vehicle 20 compares the URL information acquired in step S408 with the registered URL information acquired in step S409. It is assumed that the two-dimensional code read by control unit 26 with imaging unit 35 in step S408 is one placed by the user after step S405 for the delivery corresponding to the delivery information generated in step S400. In this case, control unit 26 determines that the URL information acquired in step S408 and the registered URL information associated with the two-dimensional code read in step S409 match each other.

[0091] In step S411, the control unit 26 of the vehicle 20 determines that the position of the two-dimensional code read in step S408 matches the arrangement information acquired in the same step. That is, the control unit 26 determines that the two-dimensional code read in step S408 is correctly arranged in the specific arrangement location of the two-dimensional code designated in advance by the user as the arrangement information.

[0092] The control unit 26 executes matching of the drop-off location based on the comparison process in step S410 and the determination process in step S411 as described above.

[0093] In step S412, the control unit 26 of the vehicle 20 identifies the delivery location designated by the user by checking the delivery locations in steps S410 and S411.

[0094] In step S413, when the control unit 26 of the vehicle 20 identifies the delivery location in step S412, the control unit 26 drives the drive unit 25 of the vehicle 20 to place the package addressed to the delivery destination user at the delivery location.

[0095] Fig. 9 is a schematic diagram for explaining the series of processing contents in Fig. 8. The series of processing contents in Fig. 8 will be mainly explained with reference to Fig. 9. Fig. 9 shows a schematic diagram of a state in which a two-dimensional code is placed at a location Q adjacent to a delivery location that the user is going to specify at the front door of the house.

[0096] The control unit 36 ​​of the terminal device 30 displays the two-dimensional code acquired by the series of steps S401 to S405 in Fig. 8 to the user via the output unit 34. The user prints the two-dimensional code displayed on the output unit 34 of the terminal device 30 on a paper medium or the like, and places it at a location Q adjacent to the delivery location designated by the user. For example, the user attaches the paper medium or the like on which the two-dimensional code is printed to the exterior wall of the user's home. In this case, the user inputs in advance to the terminal device 30 in step S401 in Fig. 8 as placement information that the two-dimensional code will be placed at a specific location Q on the exterior wall of the user's home.

[0097] When vehicle 20 arrives at the delivery destination in step S407 of Fig. 8, control unit 26 of vehicle 20 searches the surroundings using imaging unit 24 and identifies the two-dimensional code placed at location Q. In step S408 of Fig. 8, control unit 26 reads the two-dimensional code placed at location Q using imaging unit 24.

[0098] Control unit 26 determines whether or not the URL information acquired from the two-dimensional code placed at place Q matches the registered URL information read from information processing device 10. For example, assume that the two-dimensional code placed at place Q is the same as the one received by terminal device 30 from information processing device 10 in step S405 for the delivery corresponding to the delivery information generated in step S400 of Fig. 8. In such a case, control unit 26 determines that the URL information acquired from the two-dimensional code placed at place Q matches the registered URL information read from information processing device 10.

[0099] On the other hand, suppose that the two-dimensional code placed at place Q is not the same as the one received by terminal device 30 from information processing device 10 in step S405 of Fig. 8 for some reason. In such a case, control unit 26 determines that the URL information acquired from the two-dimensional code placed at place Q and the registered URL information read from information processing device 10 do not match each other.

[0100] The control unit 26 determines whether or not the position of the two-dimensional code read by the imaging unit 24 matches the arrangement information previously generated in step S401 of Fig. 8. For example, if the two-dimensional code read by the imaging unit 24 is arranged at a location Q, the control unit 26 determines that the position of the two-dimensional code matches the arrangement information. For example, if the two-dimensional code read by the imaging unit 24 is not arranged at a location Q, the control unit 26 determines that the position of the two-dimensional code does not match the arrangement information.

[0101] When control unit 26 determines that the URL information and the registered URL information do not match each other, control unit 26 drives vehicle 20 to take the luggage home without leaving it. Similarly, when control unit 26 determines that the position of the two-dimensional code does not match the placement information, control unit 26 drives vehicle 20 to take the luggage home without leaving it. When control unit 26 determines that the URL information and the registered URL information match each other and that the position of the two-dimensional code matches the placement information, control unit 26 drives drive unit 25 to place the luggage at a specified placement location.

[0102] Fig. 10 is a flowchart for explaining a third example of an information processing method executed by vehicle 20 in Fig. 1. With reference to Fig. 10, the third example of the information processing method executed by vehicle 20 in Fig. 1 will be explained. The flowchart shown in Fig. 10 is based on the series of processing contents in Fig. 8 described above with reference to Fig. 9.

[0103] In step S500, the control unit 26 of the vehicle 20 acquires delivery information from the information processing device 10. The control unit 26 receives the delivery information from the information processing device 10 via the network 40 and the communication unit 21.

[0104] In step S501, the control unit 26 moves the vehicle 20 to the delivery destination according to the address of the delivery destination included in the delivery information acquired in step S500.

[0105] In step S502, when the vehicle 20 moves in step S501 and arrives at the delivery destination, the control unit 26 searches the surroundings using the imaging unit 24, and identifies and reads the two-dimensional code.

[0106] In step S503, the control unit 26 reads out the registered URL information stored in the storage unit 12 of the information processing device 10, and receives it from the information processing device 10 via the network 40 and the communication unit 21.

[0107] In step S504, control unit 26 determines whether the URL information acquired in step S502 and the registered URL information acquired in step S503 match each other. If control unit 26 determines that the URL information and the registered URL information match each other, it executes the process of step S505. If control unit 26 determines that the URL information and the registered URL information do not match each other, it executes the process of step S506.

[0108] In step S505, the control unit 26 determines whether the position of the two-dimensional code identified and read in step S502 matches the arrangement information acquired in the same step. If the control unit 26 determines that the position of the two-dimensional code matches the arrangement information, it executes the process of step S507. If the control unit 26 determines that the position of the two-dimensional code does not match the arrangement information, it executes the process of step S506.

[0109] In step S506, if control unit 26 determines in step S504 that the URL information and the registered URL information do not match each other, or determines in step S505 that the position of the two-dimensional code does not match the placement information, control unit 26 drives vehicle 20 to take the package home without leaving it.

[0110] In step S507, the control unit 26 identifies the delivery location designated by the user by checking the delivery locations in steps S504 and S505.

[0111] In step S508, when the control unit 26 identifies the delivery location in step S507, the control unit 26 drives the drive unit 25 to place the package addressed to the delivery destination user at the delivery location.

[0112] (effect) According to the embodiment described above, it is possible to accurately place and distribute luggage at a location desired by the user. For example, the vehicle 20 can accurately place and distribute luggage at a location designated in advance by the user for the delivery of the luggage by identifying the location designated by the user based on the designation information. For example, if the luggage is placed at a location other than the location designated by the user, the luggage may be damaged due to contact with passersby and passing vehicles. In addition, the luggage itself may be stolen. According to the embodiment, these possibilities are reduced, and the luggage is delivered more safely in a manner desired by the user. Therefore, the reliability of the luggage delivery service from the user and the convenience of the user are improved.

[0113] Since the designation information includes information on a specific location designated by a user's input operation on an image on an application installed on the terminal device 30, the user can easily designate a location for leaving and delivering the parcel while operating the application on his / her terminal device 30. Since the vehicle 20 can more specifically identify the location for leaving and delivering the parcel designated by the user on the image, the vehicle 20 can accurately identify the location in real space in addition to on the image. This improves the processing accuracy of the vehicle 20 when leaving and delivering the parcel at a location desired by the user. In other words, the vehicle 20 can more accurately leave and deliver the parcel at a location desired by the user. As a result, the user's trust in the parcel delivery service and the user's convenience are further improved.

[0114] Since the designation information includes information on a specific position designated by a user's input operation in an image captured by the terminal device 30, the user can easily designate a location for leaving and delivering the package while operating the image captured using the user's terminal device 30. The vehicle 20 can more specifically identify the location for leaving and delivering the package designated by the user on the image, and therefore can accurately identify the location in real space in addition to on the image. This improves the processing accuracy of the vehicle 20 when leaving and delivering the package at a location desired by the user. In other words, the vehicle 20 can more accurately leave and deliver the package at a location desired by the user. As a result, the user's trust in the package delivery service and the user's convenience are further improved.

[0115] The vehicle 20 executes matching of the drop-off location by comparing the image captured by the imaging unit 24 with information on the specific location specified on the image by the terminal device 30. This allows the vehicle 20 to accurately compare the image captured by the imaging unit 24 with an image in which a marker such as a pointer is attached to the specific location by using image recognition technology or the like. The vehicle 20 can accurately identify the drop-off location specified by the user using the terminal device 30 not only on the image but also in real space while comparing the two images. Therefore, the processing accuracy of the vehicle 20 when dropping off and dropping off luggage at a location desired by the user is improved. That is, the vehicle 20 can more accurately drop off and drop off luggage at a location desired by the user. As a result, the reliability of the luggage delivery service from the user and the convenience of the user are further improved.

[0116] The vehicle 20 executes matching of the drop-off and delivery location by comparing the URL information readable from the two-dimensional code with the registered URL information. This allows the vehicle 20 to more accurately identify the drop-off and delivery location designated by the user using the two-dimensional code arranged in real space as a marker. For example, if a third party other than the user places a two-dimensional code other than the two-dimensional code registered by the user in an arbitrary location, the vehicle 20 can take the parcel home without dropping it off due to a mismatch between the URL information and the registered URL information. Therefore, the possibility that the parcel will be dropped off at a location other than the drop-off and delivery location designated by the user and that the parcel will be damaged or stolen is reduced, and the parcel is delivered more safely in a manner desired by the user. As a result, the reliability of the parcel delivery service from the user and the convenience of the user are further improved.

[0117] When the vehicle 20 determines that the position of the two-dimensional code does not match the placement information, the vehicle 20 takes the parcel home without leaving it at a wrong location. This allows the vehicle 20 to safely take the parcel home without leaving it at a wrong location, even if, for example, the paper medium on which the two-dimensional code is printed is moved from the designated location by wind or a third party other than the user intentionally moves the paper medium. This reduces the possibility that the parcel will be left at a location other than the location designated by the user, causing damage or theft, and the parcel is delivered more safely in a manner desired by the user. As a result, the user's trust in the parcel delivery service and the user's convenience are further improved.

[0118] Since the designation information includes coordinate information designated by a user's input operation on an application installed in the terminal device 30, the user can easily designate a delivery location while operating the application screen of his / her terminal device 30. The vehicle 20 can more specifically identify the delivery location designated by the user as coordinate information. The vehicle 20 can accurately identify the designated delivery location by the acquisition unit 23 including a GPS. As a result, the processing accuracy of the vehicle 20 when delivering a package to a location desired by the user is improved. In other words, the vehicle 20 can more accurately deliver a package to a location desired by the user. As a result, the user's trust in the package delivery service and the user's convenience are further improved.

[0119] The vehicle 20 executes matching of the drop-off and delivery location by comparing the location information acquired using the acquisition unit 23 with the specified coordinate information. This allows the vehicle 20 to objectively and accurately compare the location information acquired using the acquisition unit 23 with the specified coordinate information as numerical values. The vehicle 20 can accurately identify the drop-off and delivery location specified by the user using the terminal device 30 while comparing the two pieces of information. This improves the processing accuracy of the vehicle 20 when dropping off and delivering luggage at a location desired by the user. In other words, the vehicle 20 can more accurately drop off and deliver luggage at a location desired by the user. As a result, the reliability of the luggage delivery service from the user and the convenience of the user are further improved.

[0120] (Modification) Although the present disclosure has been described based on the drawings and examples, it should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various modifications and alterations based on the present disclosure. Therefore, it should be noted that these modifications and alterations are included in the scope of the present disclosure. For example, the functions included in each configuration or each step can be rearranged so as not to be logically inconsistent, and multiple configurations or steps can be combined or divided into one.

[0121] For example, at least a part of the processing operations executed in the vehicle 20 in the above-described embodiment may be executed in the information processing device 10 or the terminal device 30. For example, instead of the vehicle 20, the information processing device 10 itself may execute the above-described series of processing operations related to the vehicle 20. In this case, the information processing device 10 executes each step in the above-described sequence diagrams and flowcharts while transmitting and receiving information required for processing between the vehicle 20 and the information processing device 10. At least a part of the processing operations executed in the information processing device 10 or the terminal device 30 may be executed in the vehicle 20.

[0122] For example, a general-purpose electronic device such as a smartphone or a computer can be configured to function as the vehicle 20 according to the above-described embodiment. Specifically, a program describing the processing content for realizing each function of the vehicle 20 according to the embodiment is stored in a memory of the electronic device, and the program is read and executed by a processor of the electronic device. Thus, the disclosure according to one embodiment can also be realized as a program executable by a processor.

[0123] Alternatively, the disclosure according to one embodiment may be realized as a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing a program executable by one or more processors to cause the vehicle 20 according to the embodiment to execute each function. It should be understood that these are also included within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0124] For example, the information processing device 10 described in the above embodiment may be mounted on the vehicle 20. In this case, the information processing device 10 may directly communicate information with the vehicle 20 without going through the network 40.

[0125] In the above embodiment, the vehicle 20 has been described as indirectly acquiring the necessary information from the terminal device 30 via the information processing device 10, but this is not limited thereto. The vehicle 20 may directly acquire the necessary information from the terminal device 30 without via the information processing device 10. In other words, the information processing system 1 may be configured by the vehicle 20 and the terminal device 30, and may not include the information processing device 10.

[0126] In the above second embodiment, the code that transmits the designated information includes a two-dimensional code that the user places at the delivery location, but is not limited to this. The code may include, for example, a one-dimensional code.

[0127] In the above second embodiment, the information associated with the two-dimensional code is described as including the URL information and the location information, but is not limited thereto. The information associated with the two-dimensional code may include only one of the pieces of information. In other words, the designation information may include only one of the pieces of information. On the other hand, the information associated with the two-dimensional code may include, in addition to the URL information and the location information, encrypted personal information of the user related to delivery that can only be acquired by the vehicle 20, such as the above-mentioned delivery information.

[0128] The information processing system 1 according to one embodiment may execute only one of the information processing methods according to the first embodiment and the second embodiment, or may execute both in parallel.

[0129] In one embodiment, when the vehicle 20 completes delivery of the package to the drop-off location specified by the user, it may notify the user of the completion of delivery to the contact information included in the delivery information obtained from the terminal device 30 via the information processing device 10. [Explanation of symbols]

[0130] 1. Information Processing Systems 10. Information processing device 11 Communications Department 12 Storage section 13 Control section 20 Vehicles 21 Communications Department 22 Memory section 23 Acquisition Department 24 Imaging unit 25 Drive unit 26 Control Unit 30 Terminal Equipment 31 Communications Department 32 Storage section 33 Input section 34 Output section 35 Imaging section 36 Control Unit 40 Network Q Location

Claims

1. A vehicle that autonomously delivers packages, a control unit that acquires designation information generated in association with a user's designation of a delivery location for the delivery of the package, and, upon identifying the delivery location designated by the user by matching the delivery location based on the acquired designation information, drives the vehicle to place the package at the delivery location; Equipped with The designation information includes URL information that can be read from a two-dimensional code that the user places at the delivery location, The control unit executes matching of the delivery location by comparing the URL information with registered URL information that is registered in advance when the delivery location is specified and is associated with the two-dimensional code. vehicle.

2. 2. A vehicle as claimed in claim 1, the designation information includes information on a specific position designated by an input operation of the user in an image on an application installed in the user's terminal device; vehicle.

3. 3. A vehicle according to claim 1 or 2, The designation information includes information of a specific position designated by an input operation of the user in an image captured by the terminal device of the user. vehicle.

4. A vehicle according to claim 2 or 3, An imaging unit capable of imaging the surroundings of the vehicle, The control unit executes the matching of the placement location by comparing the image captured by the imaging unit with the information of the specified specific location. vehicle.

5. A vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 4, the designation information is placement information indicating a specific placement location of the two-dimensional code, the placement information being readable from the two-dimensional code; When the control unit determines that the position of the two-dimensional code does not match the location information, the control unit drives the vehicle to take the luggage home without leaving it. vehicle.

6. A vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 5, An acquisition unit capable of acquiring position information of the vehicle, the designation information includes coordinate information designated by an input operation of the user on an application installed in the user's terminal device; The control unit executes matching of the placement location by comparing the location information acquired using the acquisition unit with the specified coordinate information. vehicle.

7. A vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 6; a terminal device used by the user who receives the package delivered by the vehicle, the terminal device generating the designation information; Equipped with Information processing system.

8. Vehicles that deliver packages autonomously Acquiring designation information generated in response to a user's designation of a location for delivery of the package; Matching the delivery location based on the acquired designation information; Identifying the delivery location designated by the user by matching the delivery location; When the delivery location is identified, driving the vehicle to deliver the package to the delivery location; Executing an operation including The designation information includes URL information that can be read from a two-dimensional code that the user places at the delivery location, The step of checking the delivery location includes comparing the URL information with registered URL information that is registered in advance when the delivery location is specified and is associated with the two-dimensional code. program.

9. The program according to claim 8, the designation information includes information on a specific position designated by an input operation of the user in an image on an application installed in the user's terminal device; program.

10. The program according to claim 8 or 9, The designation information includes information of a specific position designated by an input operation of the user in an image captured by the terminal device of the user. program.

11. The program according to claim 9 or 10, The step of checking the location of the vehicle includes comparing an image captured by an imaging unit of the vehicle capable of capturing an image of the surroundings of the vehicle with information of the specified specific location. program.

12. The program according to any one of claims 8 to 11, the designation information includes coordinate information designated by an input operation of the user on an application installed in the user's terminal device; The step of checking the location of the vehicle includes comparing the location information acquired using an acquisition unit of the vehicle capable of acquiring location information of the vehicle with the specified coordinate information. program.

13. An information processing device that is communicatively connected to a vehicle that autonomously delivers luggage, a control unit that acquires designation information generated in association with a user's designation of a delivery location for the delivery of the package, and, upon identifying the delivery location designated by the user by matching the delivery location based on the acquired designation information, drives the vehicle to place the package at the delivery location; A storage unit; Equipped with The designation information includes URL information that can be read from a two-dimensional code that the user places at the delivery location, The control unit executes matching of the delivery location by comparing the URL information with registered URL information that is stored in advance in the storage unit when the delivery location is specified and is associated with the two-dimensional code. Information processing device.

14. The information processing device according to claim 13, the designation information includes information on a specific position designated by an input operation of the user in an image on an application installed in the user's terminal device; Information processing device.

15. 15. The information processing device according to claim 13, The designation information includes information of a specific position designated by an input operation of the user in an image captured by the terminal device of the user. Information processing device.

16. 16. The information processing device according to claim 14, The control unit executes the matching of the placement location by comparing an image captured by an imaging unit of the vehicle capable of capturing an image of the surroundings of the vehicle with information of the specified specific location. Information processing device.

17. 17. An information processing device according to claim 13, the designation information includes coordinate information designated by an input operation of the user on an application installed in the user's terminal device; The control unit executes the matching of the location by comparing the location information acquired using an acquisition unit of the vehicle capable of acquiring the location information of the vehicle with the specified coordinate information. Information processing device.

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