TASK MANAGEMENT DEVICE, VEHICLE, AND TASK MANAGEMENT METHOD

Abstract

To enable flexible modification of vehicle usage time for each purpose.SOLUTION: A task management device 20 is provided, comprising a control unit configured to respond to detection of the fact that particular condition is met during a period when a vehicle 30 operated in a mode according to a purpose is being operated in a first mode, by providing operation start control for starting to operate the vehicle 30 in a second mode different from the first mode before a scheduled end time of the period.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a task management device, a vehicle, and a task management method. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a system for managing vehicles that can be used for multiple purposes. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2020-170456 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] When a change in vehicle use is planned, such as changing from a bus to a mobile store vehicle or delivery vehicle, if the plan cannot be changed even if there are circumstances such as more goods to be sold or more items to be delivered than expected, the system will not be of sufficient utility.

[0005] An object of the present disclosure is to enable the vehicle usage time for each purpose to be flexibly changed. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A task management device according to the present disclosure includes: The vehicle is provided with a control unit that performs operation start control to start operating the vehicle in a second mode different from the first mode before the scheduled end time of the period when it detects that a specific condition is satisfied during the period in which the vehicle is operated in a mode according to its purpose.

[0007] The task management method according to the present disclosure includes: When the control unit detects that a specific condition is satisfied during a period in which a vehicle operated in a mode according to an application is operated in a first mode, the control unit performs operation start control to begin operating the vehicle in a second mode different from the first mode before the scheduled end time of the period. Effect of the Invention

[0008] According to the present disclosure, the vehicle usage time for each purpose can be flexibly changed. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 2] 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a task management device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 3] 4 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of a task management device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0010] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0011] In each drawing, the same or corresponding parts are denoted by the same reference numerals. In the description of this embodiment, the description of the same or corresponding parts will be omitted or simplified as appropriate.

[0012] The configuration of a system 10 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0013] The system 10 according to this embodiment includes at least one task management device 20, at least one vehicle 30, at least one first terminal device 40, and at least one second terminal device 50. The task management device 20 is capable of communicating with the vehicle 30, the first terminal device 40, and the second terminal device 50 via a network 60.

[0014] The task management device 20 is installed in a facility such as a data center, and is operated by a business operator that manages the vehicle 30. The task management device 20 is a computer such as a server that belongs to a cloud computing system or other computing system.

[0015] The vehicle 30 is operated in a mode according to the purpose, such as delivery of goods, transportation of passengers, sale of goods, provision of lodging, or provision of services requiring reservations. The mode of the vehicle 30 can be changed by changing the interior, exterior, or both. The vehicle 30 is a mounted vehicle in which the rear seat can be freely removed or moved or a table can be freely installed without using tools, for example, by using a dedicated floor structure utilizing multiple rails. The vehicle 30 is equipped with a display such as an LCD or an organic EL as a part of the exterior, and the exterior can be freely changed by switching the content displayed on the display. "LCD" is an abbreviation for liquid crystal display. "EL" is an abbreviation for electro luminescent. The vehicle 30 may be used as an on-demand bus, or may be equipped with a power source, lighting, a table, a monitor, or any combination of these, and may be used as a business negotiation space or an office at the destination, or may be used for other purposes such as selling goods, delivering goods, or providing government services. By changing the interior, exterior, or both of the vehicle 30, the vehicle 30 can be used differently depending on the day of the week or the time of day.

[0016] The vehicle 30 is any type of automobile, such as a gasoline vehicle, a diesel vehicle, a hydrogen vehicle, an HEV, a PHEV, a BEV, or an FCEV. "HEV" is an abbreviation for hybrid electric vehicle. "PHEV" is an abbreviation for plug-in hybrid electric vehicle. "BEV" is an abbreviation for battery electric vehicle. "FCEV" is an abbreviation for fuel cell electric vehicle. The vehicle 30 is an AV in this embodiment, but may be driven by a driver or may be automated at any level. "AV" is an abbreviation for autonomous vehicle. The level of automation is, for example, any of levels 1 to 5 in the SAE level classification. "SAE" is an abbreviation for Society of Automotive Engineers. The vehicle 30 may be a MaaS-only vehicle. "MaaS" is an abbreviation for Mobility as a Service.

[0017] The first terminal device 40 is held by the first user 11 or installed at any location such as the home or office of the first user 11, and used by the first user 11. The first terminal device 40 is, for example, a mobile device such as a mobile phone, a smartphone, or a tablet, or a PC. "PC" is an abbreviation for personal computer.

[0018] The second terminal device 50 is held by a second user 12 different from the first user 11, or is installed at any location such as the home or office of the second user 12, and used by the second user 12. The second terminal device 50 is, for example, a mobile device such as a mobile phone, a smartphone, or a tablet, or a PC.

[0019] Network 60 includes the Internet, at least one WAN, at least one MAN, or any combination thereof. "WAN" is an abbreviation for wide area network. "MAN" is an abbreviation for metropolitan area network. Network 60 may include at least one wireless network, at least one optical network, or any combination thereof. A wireless network may be, for example, an ad-hoc network, a cellular network, a wireless LAN, a satellite communication network, or a terrestrial microwave network. "LAN" is an abbreviation for local area network.

[0020] The present embodiment will be outlined with reference to FIG.

[0021] When the task management device 20 detects that a specific condition Ci is satisfied during a period P1 in which the vehicle 30 is operated in a first mode M1, the task management device 20 performs operation start control before the scheduled end time of the period P1. The operation start control is control for starting to operate the vehicle 30 in a second mode M2 ​​different from the first mode M1.

[0022] In this embodiment, when a change in the use of the vehicle 30 is planned, such as changing from a bus to a mobile store vehicle or a delivery vehicle, if there are more products to be sold or more items to be delivered than expected, the vehicle 30 can be started to be used as a mobile store vehicle or a delivery vehicle earlier than planned. In other words, the vehicle use time for each use can be flexibly changed. As a result, the usefulness of the system 10 is improved.

[0023] In this embodiment, the vehicle 30 is used by a first user 11 when operated in the first mode M1. The vehicle 30 is used by a second user 12 when operated in the second mode M2.

[0024] If the purpose corresponding to the first mode M1 is delivery of goods such as luggage, the first user 11 is a business person such as a delivery company, or a delivery staff. The delivery staff gets into the vehicle 30 and performs work such as loading and unloading goods, or transporting goods from the vehicle 30 to a delivery destination. The second user 12 in the case where the purpose corresponding to the second mode M2 ​​is delivery of goods is similar to the first user 11 in the case where the purpose corresponding to the first mode M1 is delivery of goods.

[0025] If the use corresponding to the first mode M1 is passenger transportation, the first user 11 is a business operator such as a bus operator or a ride sharing operator, or a passenger. The passenger is transported by boarding a vehicle 30. The second user 12 in the case where the use corresponding to the second mode M2 ​​is passenger transportation is similar to the first user 11 in the case where the use corresponding to the first mode M1 is passenger transportation.

[0026] If the purpose corresponding to the first mode M1 is the sale of goods such as bread, the first user 11 is a business operator such as a mobile salesperson, or a sales staff member. The sales staff sells goods by riding in a vehicle 30. The second user 12 in the case where the purpose corresponding to the second mode M2 ​​is the sale of goods is similar to the first user 11 in the case where the purpose corresponding to the first mode M1 is the sale of goods.

[0027] If the purpose corresponding to the first mode M1 is the provision of a place to stay, the first user 11 is a business operator such as a hotel operator, or a guest. The guest gets into the vehicle 30 and uses the vehicle 30 as a place to stay. The second user 12 in the case where the purpose corresponding to the second mode M2 ​​is the provision of a place to stay is similar to the first user 11 in the case where the purpose corresponding to the first mode M1 is the provision of a place to stay.

[0028] If the use corresponding to the first mode M1 is the provision of a medical service, a beauty service, or other service that requires a reservation, the first user 11 is a service provider such as a medical institution or a beauty salon, or a service user such as a patient or a customer. The service user uses the service by getting into the vehicle 30. The second user 12 in the case where the use corresponding to the second mode M2 ​​is the provision of a service that requires a reservation is similar to the first user 11 in the case where the use corresponding to the first mode M1 is the provision of a service that requires a reservation.

[0029] The configuration of a task management device 20 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0030] The task management device 20 includes a control unit 21, a storage unit 22, and a communication unit 23.

[0031] The control unit 21 includes at least one processor, at least one programmable circuit, at least one dedicated circuit, or any combination thereof. The processor is a general-purpose processor such as a CPU or GPU, or a dedicated processor specialized for a specific process. "CPU" is an abbreviation for central processing unit. "GPU" is an abbreviation for graphics processing unit. The programmable circuit is, for example, an FPGA. "FPGA" is an abbreviation for field-programmable gate array. The dedicated circuit is, for example, an ASIC. "ASIC" is an abbreviation for application specific integrated circuit. The control unit 21 executes processes related to the operation of the task management device 20 while controlling each part of the task management device 20.

[0032] The storage unit 22 includes at least one semiconductor memory, at least one magnetic memory, at least one optical memory, or any combination thereof. The semiconductor memory is, for example, a RAM, a ROM, or a flash memory. "RAM" is an abbreviation for random access memory. "ROM" is an abbreviation for read only memory. The RAM is, for example, an SRAM or a DRAM. "SRAM" is an abbreviation for static random access memory. "DRAM" is an abbreviation for dynamic random access memory. The ROM is, for example, an EEPROM. "EEPROM" is an abbreviation for electrically erasable programmable read only memory. The flash memory is, for example, an SSD. "SSD" is an abbreviation for solid-state drive. The magnetic memory is, for example, an HDD. "HDD" is an abbreviation for hard disk drive. The storage unit 22 functions, for example, as a main storage device, an auxiliary storage device, or a cache memory. The storage unit 22 stores data used in the operation of the task management device 20 and data obtained by the operation of the task management device 20.

[0033] The communication unit 23 includes at least one communication interface. The communication interface is, for example, an interface compatible with a wired LAN communication standard such as Ethernet (registered trademark), or an interface compatible with a wireless LAN communication standard such as IEEE802.11. "IEEE" is an abbreviation for Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers. The communication unit 23 communicates with the vehicle 30, the first terminal device 40, and the second terminal device 50. The communication unit 23 receives data used in the operation of the task management device 20, and transmits data obtained by the operation of the task management device 20.

[0034] The functions of task management device 20 are realized by executing a program according to this embodiment on a processor serving as control unit 21. That is, the functions of task management device 20 are realized by software. The program causes a computer to execute the operations of task management device 20, thereby causing the computer to function as task management device 20. That is, the computer functions as task management device 20 by executing the operations of task management device 20 in accordance with the program.

[0035] The program may be stored in a non-transitory computer-readable medium. Examples of the non-transitory computer-readable medium include a flash memory, a magnetic recording device, an optical disk, a magneto-optical recording medium, or a ROM. The program may be distributed, for example, by selling, transferring, or lending a portable medium such as an SD card, DVD, or CD-ROM on which the program is stored. "SD" is an abbreviation for Secure Digital. "DVD" is an abbreviation for digital versatile disc. "CD-ROM" is an abbreviation for compact disc read only memory. The program may be distributed by storing the program in the storage of a server and transferring the program from the server to another computer. The program may be provided as a program product.

[0036] A computer temporarily stores in a main storage device, for example, a program stored in a portable medium or a program transferred from a server. Then, the computer reads the program stored in the main storage device with a processor, and executes processing according to the read program with the processor. The computer may read the program directly from a portable medium and execute processing according to the program. The computer may execute processing according to the received program each time a program is transferred from the server to the computer. Processing may be executed by a so-called ASP-type service that realizes functions only by execution instructions and result acquisition without transferring a program from the server to the computer. "ASP" is an abbreviation for application service provider. A program is information used for processing by a computer, and includes those equivalent to a program. For example, data that is not a direct command to a computer but has the property of defining computer processing falls under "those equivalent to a program."

[0037] A part or all of the functions of the task management device 20 may be realized by a programmable circuit or a dedicated circuit as the control unit 21. In other words, a part or all of the functions of the task management device 20 may be realized by hardware.

[0038] The operation of the task management device 20 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 3. This operation corresponds to the task management method according to this embodiment.

[0039] In step S1, the control unit 21 of the task management device 20 determines whether or not a specific condition Ci is satisfied during a period P1 in which the vehicle 30 is operated in the first mode M1. If it is determined that the specific condition Ci is not satisfied, the process of step S2 is executed. If it is determined that the specific condition Ci is satisfied, that is, when it is detected that the specific condition Ci is satisfied, the process of step S4 is executed. Specifically, the fact that the specific condition Ci is satisfied is detected by any of the following procedures.

[0040] In the first procedure, the specific condition Ci includes a condition C1 that the second user 12 pays an additional fee for the use of the vehicle 30 before the scheduled end time of the period P1. The second user 12 can perform an operation to pay the additional fee using the second terminal device 50. When such an operation is performed, the second terminal device 50 transmits first notification data Dn1, which notifies the task management device 20 that the second user 12 has paid the additional fee, to the task management device 20 via a communication interface implemented in the second terminal device 50 and compatible with a mobile communication standard such as LTE, 4G standard, or 5G standard, a wireless LAN communication standard such as IEEE802.11, or a wired LAN communication standard such as Ethernet (registered trademark). "LTE" is an abbreviation for Long Term Evolution. "4G" is an abbreviation for 4th generation. "5G" is an abbreviation for 5th generation. For example, the second user 12 may be able to pay the additional fee by accessing a site on the Internet operated by the operator who manages the vehicle 30. The first notification data Dn1 may be transmitted to the task management device 20 through this site.

[0041] The control unit 21 of the task management device 20 receives the first notification data Dn1 from the second terminal device 50 via the communication unit 23. The control unit 21 refers to the received first notification data Dn1 and detects that the condition C1 is satisfied.

[0042] In the second procedure, the specific condition Ci includes a condition C2 that the use corresponding to the first mode M1 is the sale of a product and that the second user 12 purchases the remaining product. When the use corresponding to the first mode M1 is the sale of a product such as bread, the second user 12 can use the second terminal device 50 to purchase the remaining product such as unsold bread. When such an operation is performed, the second terminal device 50 transmits second notification data Dn2, which notifies the task management device 20 that the second user 12 has purchased the remaining product, to the task management device 20 via a communication interface implemented in the second terminal device 50. For example, the second user 12 may be able to purchase the remaining product by accessing a site on the Internet operated by the first user 11 such as a mobile salesman. The second notification data Dn2 may be transmitted to the task management device 20 via this site.

[0043] The control unit 21 of the task management device 20 receives the second notification data Dn2 from the second terminal device 50 via the communication unit 23. The control unit 21 refers to the received second notification data Dn2 and detects that the condition C2 is satisfied.

[0044] In the third procedure, the specific condition Ci includes a condition C3 that the use corresponding to the first mode M1 is the provision of a place to stay and the first user 11 checks out. When the use corresponding to the first mode M1 is the provision of a place to stay and the first user 11 is a guest, the first user 11 can perform an operation to check out using the first terminal device 40. When such an operation is performed, the first terminal device 40 transmits third notification data Dn3, which notifies the task management device 20 that the first user 11 has checked out, to the task management device 20 via a communication interface implemented in the first terminal device 40 and compatible with a mobile communication standard such as LTE, 4G standard, or 5G standard, a wireless LAN communication standard such as IEEE802.11, or a wired LAN communication standard such as Ethernet (registered trademark). For example, the first user 11 may be able to access a site on the Internet operated by a business operator such as a hotel operator and check out. The third notification data Dn3 may be transmitted to the task management device 20 through this site.

[0045] The control unit 21 of the task management device 20 receives the third notification data Dn3 from the first terminal device 40 via the communication unit 23. The control unit 21 refers to the received third notification data Dn3 and detects that the condition C3 is satisfied.

[0046] In the fourth procedure, the specific condition Ci includes a condition C4 that the use corresponding to the first mode M1 is the provision of a service requiring a reservation, and the first user 11 cancels the reservation. When the use corresponding to the first mode M1 is the provision of a medical service, beauty service, or other service requiring a reservation, and the first user 11 is a service user such as a patient or a customer, the first user 11 can perform an operation to cancel the reservation using the first terminal device 40. When such an operation is performed, the first terminal device 40 transmits to the task management device 20, via a communication interface implemented in the first terminal device 40, fourth notification data Dn4 notifying the task management device 20 that the first user 11 has canceled the reservation. For example, the first user 11 may be able to cancel the reservation by accessing a site on the Internet operated by a service provider such as a medical institution or a beauty salon. The fourth notification data Dn4 may be transmitted to the task management device 20 via this site.

[0047] The control unit 21 of the task management device 20 receives the fourth notification data Dn4 from the first terminal device 40 via the communication unit 23. The control unit 21 refers to the received fourth notification data Dn4 and detects that the condition C4 is satisfied.

[0048] In the fifth procedure, the specific condition Ci includes a condition C5 that the use corresponding to the first mode M1 is the delivery of goods and the space of the vehicle 30 that contained the delivered goods becomes available. When the use corresponding to the first mode M1 is the delivery of goods such as luggage, the vehicle 30 takes an image of the inside of the vehicle 30 using a camera mounted on the vehicle 30. The vehicle 30 transmits the taken image to the task management device 20 via a communication interface implemented in the vehicle 30 and corresponding to a mobile communication standard such as LTE, 4G standard, or 5G standard, a V2X communication standard such as DSRC or cellular V2X, or a wireless LAN communication standard such as IEEE802.11. "DSRC" is an abbreviation for dedicated short range communications. "V2X" is an abbreviation for vehicle-to-everything.

[0049] The control unit 21 of the task management device 20 receives an image of the interior of the vehicle 30 from the vehicle 30 via the communication unit 23. The control unit 21 analyzes the received image to determine whether or not a space has become available in the vehicle 30. A known method can be used as a method for image analysis. Machine learning such as deep learning may also be used. Determining that a space has become available in the vehicle 30 corresponds to detecting that the condition C5 is satisfied.

[0050] In the sixth step, the specific condition Ci includes a condition C6 that the use corresponding to the first mode M1 is the transportation of passengers and that the space of the vehicle 30 that accommodated the transported passengers becomes available. When the use corresponding to the first mode M1 is the transportation of passengers, the vehicle 30 takes an image of the interior of the vehicle 30 using a camera mounted on the vehicle 30. The vehicle 30 transmits the taken image to the task management device 20 via a communication interface implemented in the vehicle 30.

[0051] The control unit 21 of the task management device 20 receives an image of the interior of the vehicle 30 from the vehicle 30 via the communication unit 23. The control unit 21 analyzes the received image to determine whether or not a space has become available in the vehicle 30. A known method can be used as a method for image analysis. Machine learning such as deep learning may also be used. Determining that a space has become available in the vehicle 30 corresponds to detecting that the condition C6 is satisfied.

[0052] In the seventh step, the specific condition Ci includes a condition C7 that the use corresponding to the first mode M1 is the sale of a commodity, and the space of the vehicle 30 that contained the sold commodity becomes available. When the use corresponding to the first mode M1 is the sale of a commodity such as bread, the vehicle 30 takes an image of the interior of the vehicle 30 using a camera mounted on the vehicle 30. The vehicle 30 transmits the taken image to the task management device 20 via a communication interface mounted on the vehicle 30.

[0053] The control unit 21 of the task management device 20 receives an image of the interior of the vehicle 30 from the vehicle 30 via the communication unit 23. The control unit 21 analyzes the received image to determine whether or not a space has become available in the vehicle 30. A known method can be used as a method for image analysis. Machine learning such as deep learning may also be used. Determining that a space has become available in the vehicle 30 corresponds to detecting that the condition C7 is satisfied.

[0054] In step S2, the control unit 21 of the task management device 20 determines whether the scheduled end time of the period P1 has arrived. If it is determined that the scheduled end time of the period P1 has not arrived, the process of step S1 is executed again. If it is determined that the scheduled end time of the period P1 has arrived, that is, when the scheduled end time of the period P1 arrives, the process of step S3 is executed.

[0055] In step S3, the control unit 21 of the task management device 20 performs mode switching control. The mode switching control is control for switching the vehicle 30 to a second mode M2 ​​different from the first mode M1.

[0056] Specifically, the control unit 21 of the task management device 20 performs mode switching control by transmitting the first instruction data Di1, which instructs the worker to change the interior or exterior of the vehicle 30 to the interior or exterior corresponding to the second mode M2, to the worker's terminal device such as a mobile phone, smartphone, or tablet via the communication unit 23. When the worker's terminal device receives the first instruction data Di1, it displays the received first instruction data Di1 on a display or outputs it by voice from a speaker. The worker changes the interior or exterior of the vehicle 30 according to the first instruction data Di1 displayed or output by voice. For example, if the use corresponding to the second mode M2 ​​is passenger transportation, the worker installs a rear seat for passengers to sit on or moves the rear seat to a specific position. Alternatively, the worker may display operation information such as a destination on a display equipped as part of the exterior of the vehicle 30.

[0057] In the case where the vehicle 30 has a function of automatically changing the interior or exterior of the vehicle 30, the control unit 21 of the task management device 20 may perform mode switching control by transmitting, instead of or in addition to transmitting the first instruction data Di1 to the terminal device of the worker, the second instruction data Di2 for instructing the vehicle 30 to change the interior or exterior of the vehicle 30 to the interior or exterior corresponding to the second mode M2 ​​to the vehicle 30 via the communication unit 23. In such a modified example, the vehicle 30 receives the second instruction data Di2 from the task management device 20 via a communication interface implemented in the vehicle 30. The vehicle 30 changes the interior or exterior of the vehicle 30 according to the received second instruction data Di2. For example, if the use corresponding to the second mode M2 ​​is passenger transportation, the vehicle 30 moves the rear seat for the passengers to a specific position. Alternatively, the vehicle 30 may display operation information such as a destination on a display equipped as part of the exterior of the vehicle 30.

[0058] In step S4, the control unit 21 of the task management device 20 performs operation start control before the scheduled end time of the period P1. The operation start control is control to start operating the vehicle 30 in the second mode M2. Specifically, the operation start control is either mode switching control or control to start operating the vehicle 30 in both the first mode M1 and the second mode M2. The former control is the same as the mode switching control performed in step S3. When the latter control is performed, the interior or exterior of the vehicle 30 is partially changed to the interior or exterior corresponding to the second mode M2, as necessary, in a manner similar to the mode switching control.

[0059] When it is detected in step S1 that the condition C1 is satisfied, the control unit 21 of the task management device 20 performs mode switching control as operation start control. That is, when the control unit 21 detects that the second user 12 has paid an additional fee during the period P1, the control unit 21 performs control to forcibly switch the vehicle 30 to the second mode M2 ​​before the scheduled end time of the period P1. Alternatively, the control unit 21 may perform control to start operating the vehicle 30 in both the first mode M1 and the second mode M2 ​​as operation start control. That is, when the control unit 21 detects that the second user 12 has paid an additional fee during the period P1, the control unit 21 may perform control to start operating the vehicle 30 in both the first mode M1 and the second mode M2 ​​before the scheduled end time of the period P1. For example, if the use corresponding to the second mode M2 ​​is the sale of goods such as bread or the delivery of items such as parcels, the second user 12 can start using the vehicle 30 earlier by paying an additional fee when there are more goods to be sold or delivered than expected.

[0060] When it is detected in step S1 that the condition C2 is satisfied, the control unit 21 of the task management device 20 performs mode switching control as operation start control. That is, when the use corresponding to the first mode M1 is the sale of a commodity such as bread, if the control unit 21 detects that the second user 12 has purchased the remaining commodity during the period P1, it performs control to forcibly switch the vehicle 30 to the second mode M2 ​​before the scheduled end time of the period P1. Therefore, the second user 12 can start using the vehicle 30 early by purchasing the remaining commodity such as unsold bread.

[0061] When it is detected in step S1 that the condition C3 is satisfied, the control unit 21 of the task management device 20 performs mode switching control as operation start control. That is, when the use corresponding to the first mode M1 is providing a place to stay and the first user 11 is a guest, the control unit 21 performs control to forcibly switch the vehicle 30 to the second mode M2 ​​before the scheduled end time of the period P1 when it detects that the first user 11 has checked out during the period P1. Therefore, the second user 12 can start using the vehicle 30 early if the first user 11 checks out early.

[0062] When it is detected in step S1 that the condition C4 is satisfied, the control unit 21 of the task management device 20 performs mode switching control as operation start control. That is, when the use corresponding to the first mode M1 is the provision of a medical service, beauty service, or other service requiring a reservation, and the first user 11 is a service user such as a patient or a customer, when the control unit 21 detects that the first user 11 cancels the reservation during the period P1, it performs control to forcibly switch the vehicle 30 to the second mode M2 ​​before the scheduled end time of the period P1. Therefore, the second user 12 can start using the vehicle 30 earlier if the first user 11 cancels the reservation.

[0063] When it is detected in step S1 that the condition C5 is satisfied, the control unit 21 of the task management device 20 performs control to start operating the vehicle 30 in both the first mode M1 and the second mode M2 ​​as operation start control. That is, when the use corresponding to the first mode M1 is the delivery of items such as luggage, the control unit 21 performs control to start operating the vehicle 30 in both the first mode M1 and the second mode M2 ​​before the scheduled end time of the period P1 when it detects that the delivery of one or more items is completed during the period P1 and the space in the vehicle 30 that contained the one or more items is vacant. For example, if the use corresponding to the second mode M2 ​​is the transportation of passengers, the passengers can be transported by effectively utilizing the remaining space inside the vehicle 30.

[0064] When it is detected in step S1 that the condition C6 is satisfied, the control unit 21 of the task management device 20 performs control to start operating the vehicle 30 in both the first mode M1 and the second mode M2 ​​as operation start control. That is, when the use corresponding to the first mode M1 is passenger transportation, when the control unit 21 detects that the transportation of one or more passengers is completed during the period P1 and the space of the vehicle 30 that accommodated the one or more passengers becomes available, the control unit 21 performs control to start operating the vehicle 30 in both the first mode M1 and the second mode M2 ​​before the scheduled end time of the period P1. For example, if the use corresponding to the second mode M2 ​​is the delivery of goods such as luggage, the remaining space inside the vehicle 30 can be effectively utilized to deliver the goods.

[0065] When it is detected in step S1 that the condition C7 is satisfied, the control unit 21 of the task management device 20 performs control to start operating the vehicle 30 in both the first mode M1 and the second mode M2 ​​as operation start control. That is, when the use corresponding to the first mode M1 is the sale of products such as bread, the control unit 21 performs control to start operating the vehicle 30 in both the first mode M1 and the second mode M2 ​​before the scheduled end time of the period P1 when it detects that the sale of one or more products is completed during the period P1 and the space in the vehicle 30 that contained the one or more products is vacant. For example, if the use corresponding to the second mode M2 ​​is the transportation of passengers, the passengers can be transported by effectively utilizing the remaining space inside the vehicle 30.

[0066] When the control unit 21 of the task management device 20 performs control to start operating the vehicle 30 in both the first mode M1 and the second mode M2 ​​in step S4, the control unit 21 performs mode switching control when the scheduled end time of the period P1 arrives.

[0067] As a modification of this embodiment, the task management device 20 may be provided in a vehicle 30.

[0068] Some of the embodiments of the present disclosure will be described below as examples. However, it should be noted that the embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited to these examples. [Appendix 1] A task management device including a control unit that performs operation start control to start operating a vehicle in a second mode different from the first mode before the scheduled end time of the period when it detects that a specific condition is satisfied during a period in which a vehicle operated in a mode according to an application is operated in the first mode. [Appendix 2] A task management device as described in Appendix 1, wherein the vehicle is used by a first user when operated in the first mode, and is used by a second user different from the first user when operated in the second mode. [Appendix 3] The control unit is configured to perform mode switching control for switching the vehicle to the second mode as the operation start control. [Appendix 4] The control unit performs control to start operating the vehicle in both the first mode and the second mode as the operation start control. [Appendix 5] 5. The task management device according to claim 2, wherein the specific condition includes a condition that the second user pays an additional fee for use of the vehicle before the scheduled end time of the period. [Appendix 6] The task management device according to claim 3, wherein the specific condition includes a condition that the use corresponding to the first mode is the sale of a product and that the second user purchases the remaining product. [Appendix 7] 4. The task management device according to claim 3, wherein the specific condition includes a condition that a use corresponding to the first mode is providing a place to stay and that the first user checks out. [Appendix 8] 4. A task management device as described in Appendix 3, wherein the specific condition includes a condition that the use corresponding to the first mode is the provision of a service that requires a reservation and that the first user cancels the reservation. [Appendix 9] The task management device according to claim 4, wherein the specific conditions include a condition that the use corresponding to the first mode is the delivery of goods and that space in the vehicle that contained the delivered goods becomes available. [Appendix 10] The task management device of claim 4, wherein the specific condition includes a condition that the use corresponding to the first mode is the transportation of passengers and that space in the vehicle that housed the transported passengers becomes available. [Appendix 11] The task management device according to claim 4, wherein the specific condition includes a condition that the use corresponding to the first mode is the sale of goods and that space in the vehicle that contained the sold goods becomes available. [Appendix 12] A vehicle equipped with the task management device according to any one of Supplementary Note 1 to Supplementary Note 11. [Appendix 13] A task management method including, when a control unit detects that a specific condition is satisfied during a period in which a vehicle operated in a mode according to an application is operated in a first mode, performing operation start control to begin operating the vehicle in a second mode different from the first mode before the scheduled end time of the period. [Appendix 14] A task management method as described in Appendix 13, wherein the vehicle is used by a first user when operated in the first mode, and is used by a second user different from the first user when operated in the second mode. [Appendix 15] The task management method according to claim 14, wherein the operation start control is mode switching control for switching the vehicle to the second mode. [Appendix 16] The task management method according to claim 14, wherein the operation start control is control for starting to operate the vehicle in both the first mode and the second mode. [Appendix 17] 17. The task management method according to any one of claims 14 to 16, wherein the specific condition includes a condition that the second user pays an additional fee for use of the vehicle before the scheduled end time of the period. [Appendix 18] The task management method according to claim 15, wherein the specific condition includes a condition that the use corresponding to the first mode is the sale of a product and that the second user purchases the remaining product. [Appendix 19] The task management method described in Appendix 15, wherein the specific condition includes a condition that the purpose corresponding to the first mode is providing a place to stay and the first user checks out, or a condition that the purpose corresponding to the first mode is providing a service that requires a reservation and the first user cancels the reservation. [Appendix 20] The task management method described in Appendix 16, wherein the specific condition includes a condition that the purpose corresponding to the first mode is the delivery of goods and the space in the vehicle that contained the delivered goods becomes available, a condition that the purpose corresponding to the first mode is the transportation of passengers and the space in the vehicle that contained the transported passengers becomes available, or a condition that the purpose corresponding to the first mode is the sale of goods and the space in the vehicle that contained the sold goods becomes available.

[0069] The present disclosure is not limited to the above-mentioned embodiment. For example, two or more blocks shown in the block diagram may be integrated, or one block may be divided. Instead of executing two or more steps shown in the flowchart in chronological order as described, they may be executed in parallel or in a different order depending on the processing capacity of the device executing each step, or as necessary. Other modifications are possible without departing from the spirit of the present disclosure. [Explanation of symbols]

[0070] 10. System 11 First User 12 Second User 20 Task Management Device 21 Control section 22 Memory section 23 Communications Department 30 Vehicles 40 First terminal device 50 Second terminal device 60 Network

Claims

1. a control unit that performs operation start control to start operating the vehicle in a second mode different from the first mode before a scheduled end time of the period when it detects that a specific condition is satisfied during a period in which the vehicle is operated in a mode according to an application, and The vehicle is used by a first user when operated in the first mode, and is used by a second user different from the first user when operated in the second mode; the specific condition includes a condition that the second user pays an additional fee for use of the vehicle before the scheduled end time of the period; The control unit of the task management device, when it receives notification data notifying that the second user has paid the additional fee, the notification data being sent from the terminal device when the second user performs an operation to pay the additional fee using the terminal device, or being sent through a site when the second user accesses a site on the Internet and pays the additional fee, refers to the notification data and detects that the specific condition has been satisfied.

2. The task management device according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit performs mode switching control to switch the vehicle to the second mode as the operation start control.

3. The task management device according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit performs the operation start control to start operating the vehicle in both the first mode and the second mode.

4. a control unit that performs mode switching control to switch the vehicle to the second mode before a scheduled end time of the period when it detects that a specific condition is satisfied during a period in which the vehicle is operated in a mode according to an application and is operated in a first mode, as an operation start control to start operating the vehicle in a second mode different from the first mode; The vehicle is used by a first user when operated in the first mode, and is used by a second user different from the first user when operated in the second mode; the specific condition includes a condition that the use corresponding to the first mode is the sale of a product and that the second user purchases the remaining product; The control unit of the task management device receives notification data notifying that the second user has purchased the remaining portion of the product, the notification data being sent from the terminal device when the second user uses the terminal device to perform an operation to purchase the remaining portion of the product, or being sent via a site on the Internet when the second user accesses the site and purchases the remaining portion of the product, and upon receiving the notification data, refers to the notification data and detects that the specific condition has been satisfied.

5. A vehicle comprising the task management device according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. when detecting, by the control unit, that a specific condition is satisfied during a period in which the vehicle, which is operated in a mode according to an application, is operated in a first mode, performing operation start control to start operating the vehicle in a second mode different from the first mode before a scheduled end time of the period; The vehicle is used by a first user when operated in the first mode, and is used by a second user different from the first user when operated in the second mode; the specific condition includes a condition that the second user pays an additional fee for use of the vehicle before the scheduled end time of the period; A task management method in which, when the control unit receives notification data notifying that the second user has paid the additional fee, the notification data being sent from the terminal device when the second user uses a terminal device to perform an operation to pay the additional fee, or being sent through a site when the second user accesses a site on the Internet and pays the additional fee, the control unit refers to the notification data and detects that the specific condition has been satisfied.

7. The task management method according to claim 6 , wherein the operation start control is a mode switching control for switching the vehicle to the second mode.

8. The task management method according to claim 6 , wherein the operation start control is control for starting to operate the vehicle in both the first mode and the second mode.

9. when the control unit detects that a specific condition is satisfied during a period in which the vehicle, which is operated in a mode according to an application, is operated in a first mode, performing mode switching control to switch the vehicle to the second mode before a scheduled end time of the period as operation start control to start operating the vehicle in a second mode different from the first mode; The vehicle is used by a first user when operated in the first mode, and is used by a second user different from the first user when operated in the second mode; the specific condition includes a condition that the use corresponding to the first mode is the sale of a product and that the second user purchases the remaining product; A task management method in which, when the control unit receives notification data notifying that the second user has purchased the remaining portion of the product, the notification data being sent from the terminal device when the second user uses the terminal device to perform an operation to purchase the remaining portion of the product, or being sent via a site on the Internet when the second user accesses the site and purchases the remaining portion of the product, the control unit refers to the notification data to detect that the specific condition has been satisfied.

Images