Information processing device and information processing method

Abstract

To provide an information processing device and information processing method, which allow for improving convenience of an article storage service using a vehicle.SOLUTION: In a mobile locker system consisting of a server device, user terminals, and a vehicle connected to each other via a network, the server device 100, an information processing device, for managing operation of the vehicle 300 comprises a communication unit configured to receive service-related feedback data from a first user using the package storage service by the vehicle mounted with a storage device and grant an incentive to the first user who transmitted the feedback data, and a control unit configured to make the communication unit transmit a request for requesting transmission of feedback data to a terminal associated with the first user when the first user deposits a package to the vehicle or takes out a package from the vehicle.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a vehicle-based luggage storage service. [Background technology]

[0002] Attempts are being made to provide services by dispatching self-driving cars designed for various purposes. For example, Patent Literature 1 discloses an invention relating to a system that allows users to deposit and retrieve luggage at various locations by operating self-driving cars equipped with coin lockers. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2019-096201 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The present disclosure aims to improve the convenience of vehicle-based item storage services. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] A first aspect of the present disclosure is an information processing device having a control unit that receives feedback data regarding a luggage storage service provided by a vehicle equipped with a storage device from a first user who uses the service, and grants an incentive to the first user who sent the feedback data.

[0006] Moreover, a second aspect of the present disclosure is an information processing method including the steps of receiving feedback data regarding a luggage storage service provided by a vehicle equipped with a storage device from a first user who uses the service, and granting an incentive to the first user who sent the feedback data.

[0007] Another aspect of the present invention is a program for causing a computer to execute the above-described information processing method, or a computer-readable storage medium that non-temporarily stores the program. Effect of the Invention

[0008] According to the present invention, the convenience of vehicle-based item storage services can be improved. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is an overall configuration diagram of a movable locker system according to a first embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the appearance of a storage device according to a first embodiment. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a system configuration of a server device. [Figure 4] 4 shows an example of data stored in a storage unit. [Diagram 5] 4 shows an example of map data stored in a storage unit. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the system configuration of a user terminal. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a system configuration of a vehicle and a storage device. [Figure 8] A sequence diagram of the processes performed by the components included in the system. [Figure 9A] 1 is an example of a screen provided by a user terminal generating a ride request. [Figure 9B] An example of a ride request sent from a user device. [Figure 10] 11 is a flowchart of the process performed in step S13. [Figure 11] 11 is a flowchart of a process performed by a vehicle that receives an operation plan. [Figure 12] FIG. 1 is a sequence diagram of the process performed by a vehicle when loading and unloading luggage. [Figure 13] An example of a screen for evaluating dispatch locations. [Figure 14]13 is an example of feedback data generated by a user terminal. [Figure 15] 11 is a flowchart of the process performed in step S37. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0010] An information processing device according to one embodiment is a device that manages a vehicle that runs while equipped with a storage device that stores items. The vehicle is, for example, a moving body equipped with multiple wheels and power. The storage device is a locker-type device that has multiple compartments and can store items in each compartment. Each of the multiple compartments may be capable of being locked independently. The storage device mounted on the vehicle is also called a mobile locker. By operating a vehicle equipped with the storage device, the locker can be moved to a location desired by the user, and items can be put in and taken out.

[0011] In a service that dispatches a vehicle to a user's location and uses the vehicle to store luggage, ensuring safety and convenience is an issue. For example, even if parking or stopping for loading and unloading luggage is legally possible at a location, if the sidewalk and the roadway are separated, it may be difficult for the user to access the vehicle from the sidewalk. In addition, there are locations with heavy traffic where it is not desirable for the user to come out onto the roadway. However, there are cases where it is difficult to determine whether a location is suitable for loading and unloading luggage using only road map data. The information processing device according to the present disclosure solves this problem by using feedback data acquired from users of the service.

[0012] An information processing device in one embodiment has a control unit that receives feedback data regarding a luggage storage service provided by a vehicle equipped with a storage device from a first user who uses the service, and grants an incentive to the first user who sent the feedback data.

[0013] The feedback data is data for evaluating the baggage storage service. The feedback data may include, for example, data evaluating the location where the baggage was loaded and unloaded. This allows, for example, the information processing device to grasp the suitability of the location where the baggage was loaded and unloaded (for example, how smoothly the baggage was loaded and unloaded), thereby improving the quality of the service. For example, it becomes possible to dispatch vehicles with priority given to locations evaluated as suitable for loading and unloading baggage.

[0014] Furthermore, when the information processing device acquires the feedback data, it provides an incentive to the corresponding user. The incentive may be, for example, a discount on a luggage storage service. For this reason, the information processing device may transmit a request for generating feedback data to a terminal associated with the user who used the service. This makes it possible to encourage the user who used the service to provide an evaluation.

[0015] Specific embodiments of the present disclosure will be described below with reference to the drawings. Unless otherwise specified, the hardware configuration, module configuration, functional configuration, and the like described in each embodiment are not intended to limit the technical scope of the disclosure to only those.

[0016] First Embodiment An overview of the mobile locker system according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 1. The mobile locker system according to this embodiment includes one or more vehicles 300 that perform autonomous driving, a server device 100 that controls the vehicles 300, one or more user terminals 200, The present invention is configured to include the following.

[0017] The vehicle 300 is an autonomous vehicle equipped with a storage device 400 . The storage device 400 is a locker-type device having multiple compartments, each capable of storing luggage. FIG. 2 shows the exterior of the storage device 400. As shown in the figure, the storage device 400 is configured to allow access to each compartment through multiple doors. A user of the system can unlock a specified compartment via an interface provided on the storage device 400. The storage device 400 is mounted inside the cabin of the vehicle 300.

[0018] The vehicle 300 provides a baggage storage service (hereinafter, a baggage storage service) to a specific user using the mounted storage device 400. The user can deposit and retrieve baggage at any location by calling the vehicle 300 via the server device 100. The vehicle 300 does not necessarily have to be an unmanned vehicle. For example, a security officer or the like may be on board. The vehicle 300 does not necessarily have to be a vehicle capable of completely autonomous driving. For example, the vehicle 300 may be a vehicle in which a person drives or assists in driving depending on the situation.

[0019] The server device 100 is a device that manages the operation of the vehicle 300 . As described above, the vehicle 300 can move autonomously by mounting the storage device 400. When the server device 100 receives a vehicle dispatch request from the user terminal 200 carried by a user who deposits baggage, the server device 100 determines the vehicle 300 to be dispatched to the user and instructs the vehicle to operate.

[0020] The server device 100, the user terminal 200, and the vehicle 300 are connected to each other via a network. For example, the network may be a Wide Area Network (WAN), which is a global public communication network such as the Internet, or other communication networks. The network may also include a telephone communication network such as a mobile phone, or a wireless communication network such as Wi-Fi (registered trademark).

[0021] Next, the server device 100 will be described in detail. 3 is a diagram showing a system configuration of the server device 100. The server device 100 includes a control unit 101, a storage unit 102, and a communication unit 103.

[0022] The server device 100 is configured by a general computer. That is, the server device 100 is a computer having a processor such as a CPU or a GPU, a main storage device such as a RAM or a ROM, and an auxiliary storage device such as an EPROM, a hard disk drive, or a removable medium. The auxiliary storage device stores an operating system (OS), various programs, various tables, etc., and the programs stored therein are loaded into a working area of ​​the main storage device and executed. Each component is controlled through the execution of the programs, thereby realizing each function that matches a predetermined purpose, as described below. However, some or all of the functions may be realized by a hardware circuit such as an ASIC or an FPGA. The server device 100 may be configured by a single computer, or may be configured by multiple computers that cooperate with each other.

[0023] The control unit 101 is a calculation device that manages the control performed by the server device 100. The control unit 101 can be realized by a calculation processing device such as a CPU. The control unit 101 is configured to have four functional modules: a vehicle management unit 1011, a reservation management unit 1012, a command unit 1013, and an evaluation unit 1014. Each functional module may be realized by causing a CPU to execute a program stored in an auxiliary storage unit.

[0024] The vehicle management unit 1011 collects information about the vehicles 300 and updates the database constructed in the storage unit 102. Specifically, the vehicle management unit 1011 periodically communicates with a plurality of vehicles 300 and collects information about the vehicles 300 and information about the storage devices 400 mounted on the vehicles 300. The collected information is reflected in the database described below.

[0025] The reservation management unit 1012 receives a request for depositing and picking up baggage (i.e., a request for dispatching a vehicle; hereinafter, a vehicle dispatch request) from the user terminal 200. Furthermore, when the reservation management unit 1012 receives a vehicle dispatch request, it determines the location where the baggage is to be deposited and picked up (i.e., the location where the vehicle 300 is to be dispatched; hereinafter, a dispatch location) and the date and time (hereinafter, a dispatch date and time), and generates an operation plan for the vehicle 300. The reservation management unit 1012 determines the dispatch point based on the map data 102D, which will be described later.

[0026] An operation plan is data that instructs the vehicle 300 on the tasks to be executed. Examples of tasks include a task of accepting luggage from a user, a task of handing over luggage to a user, etc. Each task is associated with a dispatch location and a dispatch date and time. The reservation management unit 1012 generates an operation plan that combines multiple tasks, and the vehicle 300 completes the tasks in order according to the operation plan, thereby providing a luggage storage service using mobile lockers. The reservation management unit 1012 generates an operation plan for the vehicle 300 corresponding to either an operation for receiving luggage from a user or an operation for delivering luggage to a user.

[0027] The command unit 1013 transmits the generated operation plan to the target vehicle 300, thereby commanding the vehicle 300 to operate. The vehicle 300 performs autonomous driving according to the operation plan transmitted from the server device 100, and provides services to the user.

[0028] The evaluation unit 1014 receives feedback data from a user who has used the baggage storage service, and calculates an evaluation value for the dispatch point based on the feedback data. The feedback data includes an evaluation of the dispatch point, i.e., the point where the user has deposited or retrieved the baggage. The evaluation may be expressed as a numerical value, or may be selected from a number of predetermined items. Examples of the predetermined items include "the service was available without any problems," "there was a lot of traffic in the surrounding area, which made me feel uneasy," and "the location was difficult to access the vehicle." The evaluation unit 1014 calculates an evaluation value for the dispatch point based on such evaluation. The evaluation value is a value that indicates how suitable the dispatch point is as a location for depositing or retrieving baggage.

[0029] Furthermore, the evaluation unit 1014 generates or updates a map showing the suitability of the dispatch point based on the calculated evaluation value. This makes it possible to determine a more suitable dispatch point when a new service use reservation is made. A specific method will be described later.

[0030] Furthermore, the evaluation unit 1014 issues an electronic coupon that can be used in the deposit service to the user who transmitted the feedback data. The electronic coupon may be for a discount on the usage fee, or may be for an exemption from the usage fee. The electronic coupon may be transmitted to the user terminal 200, or may be stored in the storage unit 102 in association with the user's identifier.

[0031] The storage unit 102 includes a main storage device and an auxiliary storage device. The main storage device stores the programs executed by the control unit 101 and the data used by the control programs. The auxiliary storage device is a device that stores the programs executed by the control unit 101 and data used by the control programs.

[0032] Furthermore, the memory unit 102 stores vehicle data 102A, operation plan data 102B, storage device data 102C, and map data 102D.

[0033] The vehicle data 102A is data that records the status of the vehicle 300 under the management of the server device 100. 4(A) is an example of vehicle data 102A. Vehicle data 102A includes a vehicle identifier, update date and time, and status information. The status information is a field in which data indicating the current state of vehicle 300 is stored. Specifically, location information of vehicle 300, information on tasks currently completed by vehicle 300, information on tasks to be performed by vehicle 300, remaining battery charge and possible driving distance of vehicle 300, information on the planned route of vehicle 300, and the like are stored. Vehicle data 102A is periodically updated by data transmitted from vehicle 300 (hereinafter, status data).

[0034] The operation plan data 102B is data that records the operation plan generated by the reservation management unit 1012. 4(B) is an example of operation plan data 102B. The operation plan data 102B is defined for each vehicle 300, and records a serial number, a task type ("deposit" or "take out"), a dispatch point, a dispatch date and time, an identifier of a user using the service, and the like. The serial number is a number that uniquely identifies the use of a service. The serial number is assigned by the system each time an operation plan for the vehicle 300 is generated. The vehicle 300 sequentially executes the tasks included in the operation plan transmitted from the server device 100, thereby providing services to the user. By referring to the operation plan data 102B, the past operation history of the vehicle 300 can be obtained.

[0035] In the illustrated example, a vehicle with an identifier V001 (1) At exactly 12 o'clock, we receive luggage from user "U001" at point A. (2) At exactly 13:00, we received luggage from user "U002" at point B. (3) Hand over the package to user “U001” at point C at exactly 3 p.m. (4) It indicates that the package will be handed over to user “U002” at location D at exactly 18:00.

[0036] The storage device data 102C is data in which the state of the storage device 400 mounted on the target vehicle 300 is recorded. 4C is an example of the storage device data 102C. The storage device data 102C is defined for each vehicle 300, and information on a plurality of compartments in the storage device 400 (such as the size of the compartment, the occupancy status (whether or not it is being used), and the user identifier) ​​is recorded. The stored data 102C is updated based on the status data transmitted from the vehicle 300.

[0037] The map data 102D is a database that stores data related to the road network on which the vehicle 300 travels. Fig. 5(A) is a diagram illustrating the structure of the map data 102D. The map data 102D includes two types of maps: road map data and evaluation map data. The road map data includes road map data. The road map data includes, for example, data on road links, data on nodes, data on intersections, data on facilities, data for searching points, and the like. This allows, for example, The road map data may store definitions of road segments, position information and connection relationships of each road segment, etc. A road segment is a road on which the vehicle 300 can travel divided into predetermined unit sections. The road map data may also store information on speed limits and the like, and information on road attributes (e.g., whether parking or stopping for loading and unloading luggage is legally possible). The road map data may also include data on areas on private property where parking is permitted.

[0038] The evaluation map data is data related to the evaluation of points where luggage is loaded and unloaded. For example, if there is a structure separating the roadway and the sidewalk at a certain point, it can be said that it is difficult to access the vehicle from the sidewalk at that point. Such a point is not appropriate as a point where luggage is loaded and unloaded. In addition, even if parking or stopping is legally possible, a point with a large amount of traffic that hinders other traffic is also not appropriate as a point where luggage is loaded and unloaded. The evaluation unit 1014 calculates an evaluation value corresponding to a dispatch point (i.e., a point where luggage is loaded and unloaded) based on feedback data transmitted from the user, and reflects the evaluation value in the evaluation map data. This makes it possible to determine a more appropriate dispatch point. The evaluation map data can be, for example, a map in which an evaluation value is assigned to each of a plurality of points that the vehicle 300 can reach. In addition, when multiple evaluations are performed on the same point, the evaluation value assigned to the point may be determined by a weighted average or the like.

[0039] The road map data and the evaluation map data are used when determining a dispatch point for the vehicle 300. Based on the road map data and the evaluation map data, it is possible to determine points that are appropriate as dispatch points and points that are not appropriate as dispatch points.

[0040] The database that stores these data is constructed by a database management system (DBMS) program executed by a processor that manages the data stored in the storage device. The database used in this embodiment is, for example, a relational database.

[0041] The communication unit 103 is a communication interface for connecting the server device 100 to a network. The communication unit 103 includes, for example, a network interface board and a wireless communication circuit for wireless communication.

[0042] Next, the user terminal 200 will be described. The user terminal 200 is a computer owned by a user who uses the luggage storage service. The user can access the server device 100 via the user terminal 200 and request the dispatch of a vehicle 300 for depositing and retrieving luggage. The user terminal 200 is, for example, a personal computer, a smartphone, a mobile phone, a tablet computer, a personal information terminal, or the like.

[0043] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing the system configuration of the user terminal 200. As shown in FIG. The user terminal 200 includes a control unit 201 , a storage unit 202 , a communication unit 203 , and an input / output unit 204 .

[0044] The control unit 201 is a calculation device that controls the user terminal 200. The control unit 201 can be realized by a calculation processing device such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit). do. The control unit 201 executes a function of accessing the server device 100 and performing an interaction. This function may be realized by a web browser running on the user terminal 200 or dedicated application software.

[0045] The storage unit 202 includes a main storage device and an auxiliary storage device. The main storage device is a memory in which the programs executed by the control unit 201 and data used by the control programs are expanded. The auxiliary storage device is a device in which the programs executed by the control unit 201 and data used by the control programs are stored. The auxiliary storage device may store the programs executed by the control unit 201 packaged as applications. It may also store an operating system for executing these applications. The programs stored in the auxiliary storage device are loaded into the main storage device and executed by the control unit 201, thereby performing the processes described below.

[0046] The primary storage device may include a random access memory (RAM) or a read only memory (ROM). The secondary storage device may include an erasable programmable read only memory (EPROM) or a hard disk drive (HDD). It may also include a disk drive (HDD, Hard Disk Drive). may include removable media, i.e., portable recording media. The storage unit 202 stores authentication information for authenticating a user when depositing / removing baggage.

[0047] The communication unit 203 is a wireless communication interface for connecting the user terminal 200 to a network. The communication unit 203 is configured to be able to communicate with the server device 100 via, for example, a wireless LAN or a mobile communication service such as 3G, LTE, or 5G.

[0048] The input / output unit 204 is a unit that accepts input operations performed by the user and presents information to the user. In this embodiment, it is made up of a single touch panel display. That is, it is made up of a liquid crystal display and its control means, and a touch panel and its control means. The input / output unit 204 may further include a means for exchanging authentication information with the storage device 400. For example, the input / output unit 204 may include a camera for reading a two-dimensional barcode, a short-range communication means for wireless transmission, or the like.

[0049] Next, the vehicle 300 and the storage device 400 mounted on the vehicle 300 will be described. The vehicle 300 is a vehicle platform that travels autonomously under the control of the server device 100. Specifically, the vehicle determines a travel route based on an operation plan transmitted from the server device 100, and travels on roads in an appropriate manner while sensing the surroundings of the vehicle. In addition, at the destination, the vehicle performs a predetermined task related to the luggage storage service (receiving and delivering luggage).

[0050] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a system configuration of the vehicle 300 and the storage device 400. As shown in FIG. The vehicle 300 includes a control device 301, a sensor 302, a communication unit 303, a drive unit 304, a position information acquisition unit 305, and a storage device 400. The vehicle 300 and the storage device 400 operate with power supplied from a battery.

[0051] The control device 301 is a computer that controls the vehicle 300 based on information acquired from a sensor 302, which will be described later. The control device 301 is configured, for example, by a computer having a CPU and a storage device.

[0052] The control device 301 has, as functional modules, a route generation unit 3011, a driving control unit 3012, and a task control unit 3013. Each functional module executes a program stored in a storage unit such as a ROM (Read Only Memory) by a CPU (Central Processing Unit). This may be achieved by executing the above.

[0053] The route generation unit 3011 determines the route of the vehicle based on the operation plan transmitted from the server device 100. The route generating unit 3011 generates a driving route so that the dispatch points specified in the operation plan can be visited according to a specified schedule. The route may be generated by referring to pre-stored map data or by using an external service.

[0054] The driving control unit 3012 senses the surroundings of the vehicle and controls the driving of the vehicle based on the obtained data. The driving control unit 3012 detects the environment around the vehicle based on the data acquired by the sensor 302, and generates environmental data. The detection targets include, for example, the number and positions of lanes, the number and positions of vehicles around the vehicle, the number and positions of obstacles (e.g., pedestrians, bicycles, structures, buildings, etc.) around the vehicle, road structure, road signs, etc., but are not limited to these. Any detection target may be detected as long as it is necessary for autonomous driving. The driving control unit controls the autonomous driving of the vehicle using the generated environmental data and the position information of the host vehicle acquired by the position information acquisition unit 305 described later. For example, the vehicle is caused to travel along a predetermined route and to travel so that no obstacles enter a predetermined safety area centered on the host vehicle. A publicly known method can be adopted as a method for autonomously driving the vehicle.

[0055] The task control unit 3013 controls tasks executed by the vehicle 300. The tasks are tasks for providing a storage service to a user using the storage device 400, and are typically a "task of receiving luggage from a user" and a "task of delivering luggage to a user." The task control unit 3013 may also execute tasks associated with these. For example, the task control unit 3013 may execute a task of calling a user, a task of authenticating a user, and the like.

[0056] Furthermore, the task control unit 3013 periodically transmits data indicating its own status (hereinafter, status data) to the server device 100. The status data includes, for example, the following information: Identifier of the vehicle 300 - Location information of vehicle 300 Information about tasks completed to date Information about remaining tasks Current battery charge (SOC) or driving range Route information (if in operation) Information about the packages stored in the storage device 400 The server device 100 (vehicle management unit 1011) updates the vehicle data 102A and the storage device data 102C based on the received status data.

[0057] The sensor 302 is a means for sensing the surroundings of the vehicle, and typically includes a camera, a laser scanner, a LIDAR, a radar, etc. Information acquired by the sensor 302 is transmitted to the control device 301. The sensor 302 includes a sensor for autonomous driving. The sensor 302 may include a camera provided on the vehicle 300. For example, the sensor 302 may capture images using an image sensor such as a Charged-Coupled Device (CCD), a Metal-oxide-semiconductor (MOS), or a Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor (CMOS). The device may include a

[0058] The communication unit 303 is a communication means for connecting the vehicle 300 to a network. In this embodiment, the vehicle 300 can communicate with other devices (e.g., the server device 100) via the network by using a mobile communication service such as 3G, LTE, or 5G. The communication unit 303 may further include a communication means for performing inter-vehicle communication with other vehicles.

[0059] The driving unit 304 is a means for driving the vehicle 300 based on commands generated by the driving control unit 3012. The driving unit 304 is configured to include, for example, a motor and an inverter for driving the wheels, a brake, a steering mechanism, a secondary battery, and the like.

[0060] The position information acquisition unit 305 is a means for acquiring position information of the vehicle 300, and typically includes a GPS antenna, a GPS module, etc. The information acquired by the position information acquisition unit 305 is transmitted to the control device 301.

[0061] The storage device 400 is a locker-type device having multiple compartments, each capable of storing luggage. As described with reference to Fig. 2, the storage device 400 is configured such that each independent compartment can be accessed by multiple doors. The storage device 400 is connected to the control device 301, and its operations (such as user authentication and locking / unlocking) are controlled by the control device 301 (task control unit 3013). The storage device 400 has an input / output unit, and can interact with a user using the input / output unit. The input / output unit typically includes a touch panel, a liquid crystal display, a keyboard, and the like.

[0062] Next, a method in which the mobile locker system according to this embodiment provides a storage service will be described. FIG. 8 is a sequence diagram of the processes executed by each of the components included in the system.

[0063] During operation, the vehicle 300 periodically generates status data and transmits it to the server device 100. The status data includes, in addition to the state of the vehicle 300, information on tasks that have been completed up to now, information on luggage stored in the storage device 400, and the like. The server device 100 (vehicle management unit 1011) that has received the status data updates the vehicle data 102A and the storage device data 102C based on the received status data (step S10).

[0064] When a user who wishes to deposit / pick up baggage generates a vehicle dispatch request via the user terminal 200 (step S11), the vehicle dispatch request is transmitted to the server device 100. The vehicle dispatch request includes the type of request ("deposit" or "pick up"), the area to which the vehicle 300 is desired to be dispatched, the time period to which the vehicle 300 is desired to be dispatched, information on the size of the baggage, and the like. FIG. 9A is an example of a screen output by the user terminal 200 when a vehicle dispatch request is generated, and FIG. 9B is an example of a generated vehicle dispatch request. The area to which a vehicle is desired to be dispatched can be specified, for example, by a circle centered on a specific point. Note that instead of the area to which a vehicle is desired to be dispatched, the point to which a vehicle is desired to be dispatched may be input.

[0065] In step S12, the reservation management unit 1012 determines the vehicle 300 to be dispatched to the user based on the dispatch request. If the request type is "pickup", the vehicle 300 that is holding the user's luggage is determined as the vehicle to be dispatched. In other cases, the vehicle 300 to be dispatched to the user is determined by referring to the contents of the dispatch request, the vehicle data 102A, and the storage device data 102C. Specifically, the vehicle 300 that can be dispatched to the specified area (or specified location) during the specified time period and that is equipped with a storage device 400 that can store luggage is determined as the vehicle to be dispatched. Additionally, previously received vehicle dispatch requests may be stored in the storage unit 202 until a predetermined period of time has elapsed.

[0066] In step S13, the reservation management unit 1012 assigns a reservation to the vehicle 300 determined in step S12. The associated operation plan data is referenced to determine the dispatch location and dispatch date and time of the vehicle 300. FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing in detail the process executed by the reservation management unit 1012 in step S13.

[0067] First, in step S131, road map data is referenced to extract road segments where parking or stopping for loading and unloading luggage is legally permitted within an area (or in the vicinity of a specified point) designated by the user. A road segment may be a unit section of a road. Next, in step S132, the evaluation map data is referenced, and points whose evaluation values ​​satisfy a criterion (for example, have an evaluation value equal to or greater than a predetermined value) within the area (or the vicinity of the specified point) designated by the user are extracted. A plurality of points may be extracted.

[0068] In step S133, points included in the road segment extracted in step S131 and extracted in step S132 are identified and set as candidate points. If there is one or more candidate points, the process proceeds to step S134. If there is no candidate point, the process ends. In step S134, a dispatch point is determined from one or more candidate points. In this step, the dispatch point may be determined based on an evaluation value associated with one or more candidate points. For example, the point with the highest evaluation value (in other words, the point with the highest evaluation by other users) among the extracted multiple points may be determined as the dispatch point. This makes it possible to determine a more appropriate point for dropping off or picking up luggage as the dispatch point.

[0069] In step S135, the dispatch date and time is determined. The dispatch date and time can be selected from a time period designated by the user, for example.

[0070] Returning to FIG. 8, the explanation will be continued. The determined dispatch location and dispatch date and time are notified to the user terminal 200 and presented to the user. If the dispatch location and dispatch date and time do not satisfy the user's request, at least one of the dispatch location and dispatch date and time may be modified by interaction between the server device 100 and the user terminal 200.

[0071] Next, in step S14, the reservation management unit 1012 generates or updates an operation plan corresponding to the vehicle 300. Here, if the target vehicle 300 is on standby, the reservation management unit 1012 generates a new operation plan corresponding to the vehicle 300. If the target vehicle 300 is in operation, that is, if an operation plan for the vehicle 300 has already been generated, the new task determined in step S13 is added to the operation plan. The operation plan corresponding to the vehicle 300 is transmitted to the vehicle 300. The generated operation plan is reflected in operation plan data 102B.

[0072] In step S15, the vehicle 300 (control device 301) receives the operation plan. The control device 301 executes movements and tasks in accordance with the received operation plan.

[0073] 11 is a flowchart of a process performed by the vehicle 300 that has received an operation plan. This process is started when the vehicle 300 receives the operation plan from the server device 100. First, in step S21, the vehicle 300 (route generating unit 3011) generates a driving route for executing an unprocessed task based on the received operation plan.

[0074] In step S22, the traveling control unit 3012 starts traveling to the destination point (that is, the dispatch point specified by the server device 100) according to the generated route.

[0075] When the vehicle 300 approaches the destination point (step S23), the driving control unit 3012 stops the vehicle and executes a task (step S24). The task is either a task of receiving luggage from a user or a task of handing over luggage to the user.

[0076] When the task is completed, the driving control unit 3012 determines whether there is a next destination point according to the operation plan (step S25), and if there is a next destination point, the driving continues. If there is no next destination point (if all tasks included in the operation plan have been completed), the driving returns to the base.

[0077] Next, the process executed by the vehicle 300 in step S24 will be described in detail. 12 is a sequence diagram of a process executed by the vehicle 300 when a user deposits and retrieves baggage. The illustrated process is started by the task control unit 3013 when the vehicle 300 stops to allow a user who is to deposit / retrieve baggage to board the vehicle.

[0078] First, in step S31, user authentication is performed. When the user arrives at the vehicle 300 parked at a specified location, the storage device 400 acquires the first authentication information via the input / output unit and compares it with the second authentication information stored in advance. The first authentication information may be acquired as character data via a keyboard or touch panel, or as image data via a camera or scanner. It may also be acquired from the user terminal 200 via wireless communication. If the comparison is successful, the process proceeds to step S32. If the comparison is unsuccessful, the process ends. Here, it has been confirmed that the user who boarded vehicle 300 is a pre-registered user, but in a system in which user registration is not required, such as when the usage fee can be paid on the spot using electronic money or the like, user authentication is not required.

[0079] Once the user authentication is complete, storage or retrieval of the luggage is carried out in step S32. When storing new luggage, the section in which to store the luggage may be determined in this step. The section in which to store the luggage may be determined based on the size of the luggage. For example, if the size of the luggage is known in advance, a section of an appropriate size may be assigned. The section in which to store the luggage may also be specified by the user. Note that if the section in which to store the luggage is assigned in advance, the process of determining the section may be omitted. Once the luggage has been stored, the compartment in which the luggage has been checked in will be locked.

[0080] Furthermore, when baggage is to be removed, in this step the compartment in which the baggage has been deposited is unlocked based on the authentication result, allowing the baggage to be removed.

[0081] In step S33, status data is generated and transmitted to the server device 100. The status data includes information about the luggage stored in the storage device 400, such as the occupancy status of multiple compartments, the weight of the luggage, the identifier of the user currently using the luggage, etc. Having received the status data, the server device 100 reflects the data in the storage device data 102C (step S34).

[0082] When the luggage is picked up in step S33, the server device 100 settles the usage fee in step S35. The usage fee can be determined based on the size of the luggage, the period of deposit, etc. The fee is billed to the user authenticated in step S31. In this step, the usage fee may be billed by communicating with an external device that settles the fee. When the usage fee settlement is completed, a completion notice is sent to the user terminal 200. Note that, if an electronic coupon has been granted to the user in advance, the usage fee may be reduced or waived based on the contents of the electronic coupon.

[0083] In this embodiment, the completion notification includes data requesting the transmission of feedback data. In response to this, the user terminal 200 outputs a screen as shown in FIG. 13, and requests the user to input an evaluation. The evaluation may be performed using a numerical value (e.g., the number of stars). In addition, the reason for the evaluation may be selected from a number of items set in advance. 14 is an example of feedback data generated based on inputs made by a user. In the illustrated example, the feedback data includes a user identifier, a sequence number, an "evaluation of the dispatch point (and the reason)," and an "evaluation of the vehicle's arrival time (and the reason)." In this embodiment, the evaluation unit 1014 processes the "evaluation of the dispatch point." However, as shown in the figure, the feedback data may also include evaluations of points other than the dispatch point (e.g., whether or not the vehicle arrived on schedule). The user terminal 200 generates feedback data based on the input evaluation (step S36) and transmits the feedback data to the server device 100.

[0084] In step S37, the evaluation unit 1014 processes the feedback data. Figure 15 is a flowchart illustrating the details of the process executed in step S37. First, in step S371, a dispatch point to be evaluated is acquired. The dispatch point to be evaluated can be specified by searching the operation plan data using, for example, a serial number included in the feedback data as a key. Next, in step S372, an evaluation value corresponding to the dispatch point is calculated. In this step, for example, the "evaluation of the dispatch point" included in the feedback data is quantified. For example, if the evaluation is expressed as a number of stars, this may be replaced with a numerical value. Also, if the evaluation items are divided into multiple categories or if weighting is applied according to the evaluation reason, the evaluation content may be quantified based on these.

[0085] Next, in step S373, the evaluation map data is updated based on the calculated evaluation value. Specifically, the calculated evaluation value is used to correct the value recorded in the map for the target dispatch point. The value recorded in the evaluation map data may be a weighted average of evaluations submitted by multiple users. The weight when taking the weighted average may be determined based on the activity level of the user. For example, the more evaluations a user has made, the greater the weight may be given. The weight may also be determined based on the date of service use. For example, the fewer the number of days since the last evaluation, the greater the weight may be given. Conversely, the older the evaluation, the smaller the weight may be.

[0086] Finally, the evaluation unit 1014 gives an incentive to the user who transmitted the feedback data. The incentive may be an electronic coupon. The electronic coupon may be for discounting the usage fee or for exempting the usage fee. The electronic coupon may be transmitted to the user terminal 200, or may be stored in the storage unit 102 in association with the user's identifier.

[0087] As described above, according to the first embodiment, the dispatch point can be evaluated based on the evaluation made by the user who actually dropped off the baggage. Also, the evaluation map data is updated based on the evaluation result. This allows the server device 100 to grasp a more suitable point for loading and unloading the baggage, and enables the vehicle 300 to be dispatched to the more suitable point.

[0088] Second Embodiment In the first embodiment, the dispatch point is evaluated regardless of the attributes of the package. However, the suitability of the dispatch point may differ depending on the attributes of the package. For example, if the guardrail separating the sidewalk from the roadway is waist-high, small packages may be able to be dropped off from the side of the vehicle. On the other hand, it may be difficult to drop off large or heavy packages through the guardrail. In other words, the evaluation of the dispatch point may change depending on the attributes of the package. To address this, a second embodiment performs dispatch point evaluation based additionally on attributes of the checked baggage.

[0089] In this embodiment, multiple sizes of luggage are defined, and evaluation map data is generated for each luggage size. Fig. 5(B) is an example of map data 102D in the second embodiment. The luggage sizes may be classified, for example, into small, medium, and large sizes, or may be further subdivided. For example, the size classification may be determined by the total length of three sides.

[0090] In the second embodiment, the server device 100 is configured to be able to acquire data on the size of the luggage. The data on the size of the luggage can be included in the dispatch request, for example. In this case, an interface for specifying the size of the luggage may be added to the screen shown in FIG. 9A. In this embodiment, in step S132 of FIG. 10, the evaluation map data corresponding to the size of the luggage is referenced to extract the points.

[0091] In this embodiment, the dispatch point is acquired and information on the size of the package is also acquired in step S371 of Fig. 15. The size of the package can be identified by searching the data stored in the storage unit 202 using the serial number included in the feedback data as a key. In this embodiment, in step S373, the evaluation map data corresponding to the size of the package is subject to update.

[0092] In this way, according to the second embodiment, it is possible to evaluate the dispatch point for each size of the package, which makes it possible to determine an appropriate dispatch point for each attribute of the package, thereby improving user convenience.

[0093] Third embodiment In the second embodiment, the dispatch point is evaluated based on the attributes of the baggage to be deposited. In contrast, in the third embodiment, the dispatch point is evaluated based on the attributes of the user who deposits the baggage (hereinafter, user attributes).

[0094] For example, just as it is difficult for a user with a walking disability to deposit luggage over a guardrail, depending on the user attributes, the user may not be able to deposit and retrieve luggage in the same way as other people. Therefore, in the third embodiment, information on the user attributes is further included in the dispatch request, and the server device 100 evaluates the dispatch point of the vehicle based on the user attributes. The information on the user attributes may be, for example, the user's age, sex, height, and the presence or absence of a disability (e.g., walking disability, standing disability), etc.

[0095] In the third embodiment, as the evaluation map data, an evaluation map corresponding to a user having a predetermined attribute is used, such as a "map showing an evaluation value when a user with a walking disability checks in luggage. " The evaluation map data in the third embodiment may include a plurality of evaluation maps corresponding to a plurality of user attributes. In the third embodiment, in step S132, evaluation map data that matches the user attributes associated with the user who uses the service is selected, and then the dispatch point is determined using the selected evaluation map data. The user attributes associated with the user who uses the service may be held in advance by the server device 100, or may be transmitted from the user terminal 200. .

[0096] In this embodiment, in step S371, the dispatch point is acquired and information on the user's attributes is acquired. The user attributes can be identified based on the user ID included in the feedback data. In step S373, the evaluation map data corresponding to the user attributes is updated. In this way, according to the third embodiment, it is possible to evaluate the dispatch point for each attribute of the user who uses the service. This makes it possible to determine a more appropriate dispatch point by taking the user attributes into consideration.

[0097] (Modification) The above-described embodiment is merely an example, and the present disclosure can be modified and implemented as appropriate without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. For example, the processes and means described in this disclosure can be freely combined and implemented as long as no technical contradiction occurs.

[0098] Furthermore, a process described as being performed by one device may be shared and executed by multiple devices. Alternatively, a process described as being performed by different devices may be executed by one device. In a computer system, the hardware configuration (server configuration) by which each function is realized can be flexibly changed.

[0099] The present disclosure can also be realized by supplying a computer program implementing the functions described in the above embodiments to a computer, and having one or more processors of the computer read and execute the program. Such a computer program may be provided to the computer by a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium connectable to the system bus of the computer, or may be provided to the computer via a network. Non-transitory computer-readable storage media include, for example, any type of disk, such as a magnetic disk (floppy disk, hard disk drive (HDD), etc.), an optical disk (CD-ROM, DVD disk, Blu-ray disk, etc.), a read-only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), an EPROM, an EEPROM, a magnetic card, a flash memory, an optical card, and any type of medium suitable for storing electronic instructions. [Explanation of symbols]

[0100] 100 Server device 101,201...Control unit 102,202...Storage section 103, 203, 303... Communications Department 204...Input / output section 200 User terminal 300...Vehicle 301...Control device 302 Sensor 304 Drive unit 305...Location information acquisition unit 400... Storage device

Claims

1. receiving feedback data regarding a baggage storage service using a vehicle equipped with a storage device from a first user who has used the service; and providing an incentive to the first user who transmitted the feedback data. The control unit determines a first location where the baggage will be deposited in the vehicle or removed from the vehicle in response to a request from the first user, and dispatches the vehicle to the first location; The feedback data includes an evaluation of the first location determined by the control unit. Information processing device.

2. the control unit transmits a request to a terminal associated with the first user to request transmission of the feedback data when the first user deposits the baggage in the vehicle or removes the baggage from the vehicle. The information processing device according to claim 1 .

3. The control unit identifies the first location to be evaluated based on a past operation history of the vehicle.

3. The information processing device according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The control unit calculates an evaluation value for the first location as a location for depositing or retrieving the baggage based on the feedback data. The information processing device according to claim 1 .

5. The control unit determines the first location when providing the service to the second user based on the calculated evaluation value. The information processing device according to claim 4.

6. The feedback data includes data regarding attributes of the package.

6. The information processing device according to claim 4 or 5.

7. The control unit calculates the evaluation value for the first location for each attribute of the package. The information processing device according to claim 6.

8. The feedback data includes data regarding user attributes of the first user. The information processing device according to claim 4 .

9. The control unit calculates the evaluation value for the first location for each of the user attributes. The information processing device according to claim 8.

10. Receiving feedback data regarding a baggage storage service using a vehicle equipped with a storage device from a first user who has used the service; and providing an incentive to the first user who transmitted the feedback data. The control unit determines a first location where the baggage will be deposited in the vehicle or removed from the vehicle in response to a request from the first user, and dispatches the vehicle to the first location; The control unit calculates an evaluation value for the first location as a location for depositing or retrieving the baggage based on the feedback data. Information processing device.

11. receiving feedback data regarding a baggage storage service using a vehicle equipped with a storage device from a first user who has used the service; providing an incentive to the first user who transmitted the feedback data; Including, The method further includes a step of determining a first location for depositing the luggage in the vehicle or removing the luggage from the vehicle in response to a request from the first user, and dispatching the vehicle to the first location; An information processing method, wherein the feedback data includes an evaluation of the determined first location.

12. The method further includes a step of transmitting a request to a terminal associated with the first user to request transmission of the feedback data when the first user deposits the baggage in the vehicle or removes the baggage from the vehicle. The information processing method according to claim 11.

13. The method further includes a step of identifying the first location to be evaluated based on a past driving history of the vehicle.

13. The information processing method according to claim 11 or 12.

14. The method further includes calculating an evaluation value for the first location as a location for dropping off or picking up the baggage based on the feedback data. The information processing method according to any one of claims 11 to 13.

15. determining the first location when providing the service to the second user based on the calculated evaluation value; The information processing method according to claim 14.

16. the feedback data includes data regarding attributes of the package; Calculating the evaluation value for the first location for each attribute of the package; 16. The information processing method according to claim 14 or 15.

17. the feedback data includes data regarding user attributes of the first user; Calculating the evaluation value for the first location for each of the user attributes.

17. The information processing method according to claim 14.

18. A method for providing a method for storing luggage using a vehicle equipped with a storage device, comprising: receiving feedback data regarding the service from a first user who has used the service; providing an incentive to the first user who transmitted the feedback data; Including, The method further includes a step of determining a first location for depositing the luggage in the vehicle or removing the luggage from the vehicle in response to a request from the first user, and dispatching the vehicle to the first location; The information processing method further includes a step of calculating an evaluation value for the first location as a location for depositing or retrieving the baggage based on the feedback data.

Images