Parking fee image generation system

Abstract

To provide a parking fee image generation system capable of easily and quickly generating an easily comprehensible image showing a parking fee (parking fee image).SOLUTION: A parking fee image generation system 100 is provided, comprising a layout setting unit LS configured to set a display layout based on a signboard generation format GF according to content of change in parking fee, and an image generation unit MC configured to generate a parking fee image ME (image data DG) according to the display layout that has been set.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a parking fee image generation system for generating images that display parking fees. [Background technology]

[0002] For example, a technology is known for displaying various advertisements on an information terminal at a predetermined position as an information processing device (see, for example, Patent Document 1, etc.). Also, a device is known for displaying changeable fees, etc. in a parking lot (see, for example, Patent Documents 2 and 3, etc.).

[0003] In recent years, as parking fees have become more complicated, there is a demand for the fee system to be easy to read. On the other hand, there is also a demand for the simple and quick change of parking fees, for example. However, due to the complexity of the fee system, the work of changing the fee takes time, and there is also a concern that a mistake in setting the fee when changing the fee may cause a difference between the displayed content and the fee system at the time of settlement, which may lead to trouble. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] JP 2015-99017 A [Patent Document 2] Utility Model Registration No. 3151090 [Patent Document 3] JP 2020-177414 A Summary of the Invention

[0005] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above-mentioned points, and aims to provide a parking fee image generation system that can easily and quickly generate an easy-to-view image (parking fee image) that displays parking fees.

[0006] To achieve the above objective, the parking fee image generation system includes a layout setting unit that sets a display layout based on a signboard creation format in accordance with changes to the parking fee, and an image creation unit that creates a parking fee image in accordance with the set display layout.

[0007] In the above parking fee image creation system, a parking fee image is created according to a display layout set based on a parking fee creation format, making it possible to display parking fees with an easy-to-read fee system, and also to create parking fee images easily, quickly, and accurately.

[0008] In a specific aspect of the present invention, the layout setting unit selects one setting pattern from a plurality of setting patterns according to a parameter of the changed parking fee. In this case, an appropriate layout setting is performed according to the change in the parking fee.

[0009] In another aspect of the present invention, a change history recording unit is provided that records the history of changes to parking fees together with the time of the changes. In this case, for example, based on the data recorded in the change history recording unit, it is possible to confirm after the fact what settings were in place at what time.

[0010] In yet another aspect of the present invention, a parking lot management server is provided that distributes the parking fee image to a communication terminal held by a user of the parking lot. In this case, when the parking lot management server distributes the parking fee image to a communication terminal held by each user, i.e., a smartphone or a car navigation system, it becomes possible to display an easy-to-read parking fee that reflects the changes in the parking fee.

[0011] In yet another aspect of the present invention, the image creation unit is provided in a payment machine installed at the site, and the payment machine outputs a parking fee image to the outside, and after it is confirmed that the parking fee image is visible, the changed parking fee setting is confirmed. In this case, the parking fee image can be created in the payment machine. Also, in this case, after it is confirmed that the created parking fee image is visible to the user, the payment machine can perform a payment process in a fee system corresponding to the image.

[0012] In yet another aspect of the present invention, an electronic signboard is provided that is installed at the site and receives and displays the parking fee image from the image creation unit. In this case, the parking fee image can be displayed (output) on the electronic signboard installed at the site.

[0013] In yet another aspect of the present invention, a confirmation unit is provided for confirming the display state of the electronic signboard. In this case, when a display switch is performed in response to a change in the price of the electronic signboard, the confirmation unit can confirm whether the display state of the electronic signboard is appropriate. Therefore, even if the display switch is performed by a remote operation away from the site, the confirmation unit (e.g., a camera or the like) can confirm whether the display on the electronic signboard is correct as a result of the operation, independently of the operation. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0014] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram for explaining an overview of a parking fee image generating system according to a first embodiment. [Diagram 2] 1 is a conceptual diagram for explaining an overview of a parking management system incorporating a parking fee image generation system. [Diagram 3] 13(A) to 13(C) are image diagrams showing an example of a parking fee image (fee display image) based on a display layout set on the basis of a signboard creation format. [Figure 4] 1 is a block diagram for explaining a configuration example of a parking fee image generation system and a parking management system incorporating the same. [Diagram 5] 13A is a data table showing an example of various data that may be selected when changing parking fees, and FIG. 13B is a data table showing an example of data recorded in the change history recording section. [Figure 6] FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram for explaining an overview of a modified parking fee image generation system and a parking management system incorporating the same. [Figure 7] FIG. 11 is a conceptual diagram for explaining an overview of a parking fee image generation system according to a second embodiment and a parking management system incorporating the same. [Figure 8] FIG. 11 is a conceptual diagram for explaining an overview of a parking fee image generation system according to a third embodiment and a parking management system incorporating the same. [Figure 9] 13(A) and 13(B) are conceptual diagrams for explaining the operation at the time of initial setup, as an overview of a parking fee image generation system according to a fourth embodiment and a parking management system incorporating the same. [Figure 10] 13(A) and 13(B) are conceptual diagrams for explaining the operation when changing settings, etc., as an overview of a parking fee image generation system according to a fourth embodiment and a parking management system incorporating the same. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0015] [First embodiment] An example of the parking fee image generation system according to the first embodiment will be described below with reference to FIG. 1 and the like. As shown in FIG. 1 and the like, the parking fee image generation system 100 according to this embodiment includes a layout setting unit LS and an image creation unit MC, and creates a parking fee image ME from parking fee data DD. Here, the parking fee data DD means, for example, data that enables the calculation of the parking fee, that is, data that indicates the parking fee fee system, etc. In particular, in this example, the parking fee data DD is in a state in which the items to be written on a signboard that displays the fee system for parking lot users are readably digitized. The parking fee data DD is configured, for example, in a CSV format, etc., so that it can be applied when performing settlement processing.

[0016] Of the parking fee image generation system 100, the layout setting unit LS includes a parking fee data analysis unit AN and a signboard creation format GF, and performs analysis processing on the parking fee data DD based on the parking fee data analysis unit AN, and sets the display layout of the parking fee image to be generated from the parking fee data DD based on the signboard creation format GF.

[0017] The parking fee data analysis unit AN analyzes (decodes) necessary data such as numerical values ​​related to the parking fee system based on predetermined rules for character arrangement in the parking fee data DD.

[0018] The signboard creation format GF is a data storage unit that includes various data. The signboard creation format GF includes, for example, various data related to the principles for creating parking fee signs. In other words, it includes various data related to general rules and principles for the placement, size, and relative positional relationship of parking fee signs for the day of the week, time period, maximum fee, fee per unit time, and character strings that identify the location of the parking lot, or guidelines in the parking lot rental industry. In other words, the signboard creation format GF stores data that serves as an index for setting an image display layout that can be used as an appropriate signboard, etc., according to the parking fee data included in the parking fee data DD.

[0019] As described above, the layout setting unit LS analyzes various data related to parking fees, such as the parking fee system, contained in the parking fee data DD in the parking fee data analysis unit AN, and sets the optimal display layout according to the analysis results of the parking fee data DD by referring to various data stored in the signboard creation format GF. This makes it possible to display the fee system in an easy-to-read layout that corresponds to the complicated fee system of a rental parking lot, for example.

[0020] In the parking fee image generation system 100, the image creation unit MC creates image data DG based on the parking fee data DD analyzed by the layout setting unit LS and the display layout information LI set for the parking fee data. In other words, the parking fee data DD is converted into image data DG based on the display layout information LI. In particular, in this embodiment, the image data DG is formed in a layout optimized for a signboard (e.g., an electronic signboard) displaying the parking fee based on the signboard creation format GF during the above conversion. Note that the image data DG is in a format that can be output as an image on various display devices, such as a JPEG format. In the illustrated example, an image obtained by outputting the image data DG is shown as a parking fee image ME. In the following description, the image data DG, etc. and the parking fee image ME, etc., as the display mode corresponding to them, may be treated as being equivalent.

[0021] Generally, there is a demand for easy and quick changes to parking fees at rental parking lots. In order to meet this demand, in this embodiment, the layout setting unit LS and image creation unit MC described above enable quick response in response to changes in the parking fee data DD.

[0022] As a specific example, the procedure indicated by solid arrows A0 to A4 will be described below for the case where the first data DDα, which is the parking fee data DD showing the details of the parking fee, is changed to the second data DDβ in the above embodiment. That is, in this case, the parking fee image MEα (image data DGα) corresponding to the first data DDα is changed to the parking fee image MEβ (image data DGβ) corresponding to the second data DDβ.

[0023] First, as shown by arrow A0, when the parking fee data DD is changed from the first data DDα to the second data DDβ, as shown by arrow A1, the parking fee data analysis unit AN of the layout setting unit LS analyzes the second data DDβ, and extracts display layout information LIβ set for the second data DDβ in the signboard creation format GF (for example, one setting is selected from a plurality of layout settings prepared in advance). Next, as shown by arrow A2, a conversion process is performed in the image creation unit MC based on the second data DDβ and the display layout information LIβ set for it, and image data DGβ is created. The image data DGβ is output as a parking fee image MEβ on various display devices (output devices). That is, on the display device, the content of the output display is switched from the parking fee image MEα before the change to the parking fee image MEβ.

[0024] The parking fee image MEα before the change is displayed in the same manner as the operation up to the output of the parking fee image MEβ indicated by the arrows A1 to A4 above. That is, as indicated by the dashed arrows B1 to B4, the layout setting unit LS extracts the display layout information LIα set for the first data DDα, and based on this, the image creation unit MC creates image data DGα, which is then output as the parking fee image MEα.

[0025] As described above, in this embodiment, in the parking fee image generation system 100, the layout setting unit LS sets the display layout based on the signboard creation format stored in the signboard creation format GF in response to changes in the parking fee data DD. The image creation unit MC creates image data DG in accordance with the display layout set in the layout setting unit LS, that is, creates a parking fee image ME corresponding to the image data DG.

[0026] Hereinafter, with reference to the conceptual diagram shown in FIG. 2, a configuration example of a parking management system 500 incorporating the parking fee image generating system 100 will be described.

[0027] As shown in the figure, as an example, the layout setting unit LS and image creation unit MC that constitute the parking fee image generation system 100 are assumed to be provided in an information processing device MM, such as a PC having a CPU, a storage device, etc.

[0028] The parking management system 500 is a system for managing parking at the parking lot PA. Here, the parking fee image generating system 100 is incorporated as part of the parking management, thereby enabling various processes related to parking fees, including the display of a fee system. As shown in the figure, the parking management system 500 includes, in addition to the above-mentioned information processing device MM, a parking management server 50 for managing various information about the parking lot PA, an on-site terminal 70 installed at the parking lot PA, which is the site, and an electronic signboard SGd for displaying a parking fee image ME. Here, as an example, the on-site terminal 70 is assumed to be a payment machine AM, and the on-site terminal 70 is assumed to be connected to the electronic signboard SGd, and in addition to the payment process, it also controls the display mode of the electronic signboard SGd. In addition to the above-mentioned electronic signboard SGd, the parking management system 500 can also display the parking fee image ME on, for example, a user terminal TI carried by a user of the parking lot PA. The user terminal TI may also be regarded as one element constituting the parking management system 500.

[0029] As described above, the information processing device MM of the parking management system 500 is composed of a PC or the like, and stores the parking fee data DD, as well as various programs and data for operating as the layout setting unit LS and the image creation unit MC, and performs various processing operations based on these. The information processing device MM also accepts operation inputs by the parking lot manager or the like and information on the external environment related to the parking lot PA, and accepts changes to the contents of the parking fee data DD in response to these. That is, the information processing device MM accepts changes to the parking fee data DD, and creates a new parking fee image in response to the accepted changes as the parking fee image generation system 100. The information processing device MM also transmits (sends) the parking fee data DD and image data DG as the result of processing to the parking lot management server 50.

[0030] Of the parking management system 500, the parking lot management server 50 can take various forms, such as a physical server or a cloud-type server, and handles various information related to the parking lot, such as information from the information processing device MM. Here, in particular, it transmits the parking fee data DD and image data DG sent from the information processing device MM to, for example, an on-site terminal 70 (payment adjustment machine AM) installed in the parking lot PA, and is responsible for managing various matters in the parking lot PA, such as the payment process in the payment adjustment machine AM as the on-site terminal 70. In other words, the parking lot management server 50 manages information related to parking fees.

[0031] As described above, the on-site terminal 70 of the parking management system 500 is composed of, for example, an adjustment machine AM installed in the parking lot, which is the site, and is responsible for various processes for on-site parking management, such as settling parking fees. In this example, the on-site terminal 70 is capable of communicating with the parking lot management server 50, as described above, and sets the parking fee system based on the parking fee data DD transmitted from the parking lot management server 50. For this reason, the on-site terminal 70 is provided with a parking fee setting unit FS. Here, the on-site terminal 70 is also connected to an electronic signboard SGd, and outputs image data DG transmitted from the parking lot management server 50 to the electronic signboard SGd.

[0032] In the parking management system 500, the electronic signboard SGd is an electronic signboard (display panel) composed of, for example, a number of LED light sources or organic EL light sources arranged in a matrix, and displays a parking fee image ME as an image corresponding to image data DG transmitted from the parking lot management server 50 via the on-site terminal 70. The electronic signboard SGd is installed in an easily visible position within the parking lot PA or in the immediate vicinity of the parking lot PA. Note that, in the above example, the image data DG is received via the on-site terminal 70, but this is not limiting, and for example, it is also possible to have a receiver or the like and receive the image data DG directly from the parking lot management server 50.

[0033] The user terminal TI is assumed to be, for example, a smartphone or a car navigation system owned by a user of the parking lot PA. That is, the user terminal TI is a communication terminal held by a user of the parking lot PA. In the illustrated example, the user terminal TI is a smartphone owned by the user. For example, the user terminal TI is pre-registered when using the parking lot PA, and the pre-registration contents are managed by the parking lot management server 50. As a result, when the user appropriately operates the user terminal TI, for example, by accessing the parking lot management server 50, the parking lot management server 50 transmits image data DG to the user terminal TI, and a parking fee image ME is displayed as image data DG on the display unit DSt of the user terminal TI. In this case, the user of the parking lot PA, who is the owner of the user terminal TI, can visually recognize an image shown as a signboard, that is, an image that is intuitively easy to see as a display of the parking fee, by the distribution from the parking lot management server 50. In addition, even if the contents of the image data DG are changed, the parking fee reflecting the latest changes can be presented when accessing the parking lot management server 50.

[0034] As described above, in the above embodiment, the electronic signboard SGd installed at the site receives and displays the parking fee image ME as image data DG from the information processing device MM including the image creation unit MC via the parking lot management server 50. In addition, the parking lot management server 50 distributes the parking fee image ME as image data DG to the user terminal TI as a communication terminal held by the user of the parking lot PA.

[0035] Hereinafter, with reference to an image diagram exemplified as FIG. 3, an example of a parking fee image (fee display image) ME that can be changed into various display modes (display layouts) will be described.

[0036] Among Fig. 3(A) to Fig. 3(C), Fig. 3(A) is an image diagram showing an example of a parking fee image MEα corresponding to the first data DDα (see Fig. 1) as the parking fee data DD, Fig. 3(B) is an image diagram showing an example of a parking fee image MEβ corresponding to the second data DDβ (see Fig. 1) as the parking fee data DD, and Fig. 3(C) is an image diagram showing an example of a parking fee image MEγ corresponding to yet another data as the parking fee data DD (which may be considered as equivalent to the second data DDβ in Fig. 1). That is, in this embodiment, the display mode of what was displayed as the parking fee image MEα in Fig. 3(A) before the change is changed to the parking fee images MEβ and MEγ shown in Fig. 3(B) and Fig. 3(C) depending on, for example, the date and time, external conditions, etc.

[0037] Here, in the illustration, Fig. 3(A) and Fig. 3(B) show an example of a case where a day-of-week fee is applied and the maximum fee is repeatedly applied. However, the fee value has been changed between Fig. 3(A) and Fig. 3(B). Meanwhile, Fig. 3(C) shows an example of a case where a day-of-week fee is applied but the maximum fee is not repeatedly applied. Regarding the display layout set based on the sign creation format GF (see Fig. 1), various forms may occur, such as a change from Fig. 3(A) to Fig. 3(B) in which the arrangement of each item is not changed or is almost the same and only the numerical values ​​are changed, and a change from Fig. 3(A) to Fig. 3(C) in which the arrangement and size of each character are changed. In other words, the parking fee image ME based on the display layout is also changed in various ways. For such various changes, for example, by creating the form in accordance with the guidelines in the parking lot rental industry, it is possible to always make it intuitively easy to read and to eliminate the difficulty of understanding even in a complicated fee system. Specifically, for example, the maximum charge amount display is displayed large in the center. It can also be displayed in a conspicuous manner, such as in bold red. For the days of the week, for example, weekdays (Monday to Friday) and Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays are displayed on the left and right, and in each of the days, a color different from the maximum charge is used in the upper left position of the maximum charge amount display, and the font size is also considered to be smaller than that of the maximum charge amount display. In addition, for example, regarding the repeated application of the maximum charge, in the example of FIG. 3(A) and the like, a statement indicating that the maximum charge applies is displayed near the maximum charge amount display. On the other hand, in the example of FIG. 3(C), a statement indicating that the maximum charge does not apply is displayed near the maximum charge amount display.

[0038] Hereinafter, a configuration example of a parking management system 500 including the parking fee image generation system 100 will be described with reference to a block diagram shown as FIG.

[0039] In the illustrated example, first, the information processing device MM includes an information receiving unit IR, a parking fee changing unit TC, a communication unit TE, and a change history recording unit CR in addition to the layout setting unit LS and image creating unit MC described above.

[0040] The information reception unit IR is an interface unit that receives various information from the outside that should be the basis for determining the changes to the parking fee data DD. The information reception unit IR receives, for example, operational input by the parking lot manager or the like and information on the external environment related to the parking lot PA, and can also be connected to a clock unit (not shown) that measures time so that time information is one of the received information. The information reception unit IR may also receive information from the parking lot management server 50, i.e., information on the current parking situation in the parking lot PA.

[0041] The parking fee change unit TC changes the fee system for the parking lot PA based on the information received by the information reception unit IR. That is, it changes (determines) the specific contents of the parking fee data DD. Therefore, the layout setting unit LS and the image creation unit MC generate image data DG, i.e., a parking fee image ME, based on the parking fee data DD changed (determined) by the parking fee change unit TC.

[0042] Here, the layout setting unit LS has a setting pattern storage unit PR and a setting pattern selection unit PS as equivalents to the signboard creation format GF. The setting pattern storage unit PR stores a number of display layout patterns that can be selected in accordance with the parking fee data DD that can be changed in the parking fee change unit TC. The setting pattern selection unit PS selects an optimal pattern from among the display layout patterns stored in the setting pattern storage unit PR according to the parking fee data DD changed (determined) in the parking fee change unit TC. That is, the display layout information LI (see FIG. 1) set for the parking fee data DD is determined. As described above, the setting pattern storage unit PR and the setting pattern selection unit PS work together to function as the signboard creation format GF.

[0043] As described above, the image creation unit MC creates image data DG, i.e., a parking fee image ME, based on the parking fee data DD and the display layout information LI set for it, i.e., one pattern selected in the set pattern selection unit PS.

[0044] The communication unit TE transmits (sends) the parking fee data DD and image data DG generated as described above to the parking lot management server 50. The communication unit TE may also function as a receiver for the information received by the information receiving unit IR. For this reason, for example, the communication unit TE may acquire various information from the parking lot management server 50.

[0045] The change history recording unit CR sequentially records the changes to the parking fee, as represented by the parking fee data DD described above. In particular, here, the change history recording unit CR records the history of the changes to the parking fee together with the time of the change. This makes it possible to check what settings were in place at what point in time, for example, based on the data recorded in the change history recording unit CR. The contents recorded in the change history recording unit CR are transmitted to the parking lot management server 50 via the communication unit TE. Furthermore, among the information from the parking lot management server 50, items related to the history of changes to the parking fee may also be recorded in the change history recording unit CR.

[0046] Next, the parking lot management server 50 includes a control unit 51 and a communication unit 52. The control unit 51 includes a parking management database 51d and a change history management unit 51m to perform various operations related to parking lot management. The parking management database 51d stores various data related to parking management and parking fee display, such as parking fee data DD and image data DG. The change history management unit 51m stores data on the history of changes to the parking fee recorded in the change history recording unit CR and the time of the changes.

[0047] The control unit 51 transmits data via the communication unit 52 to a field terminal 70 installed in the parking lot.

[0048] In addition, in the control unit 51, the change history management unit 51m is assumed to keep a history of changes to the parking fee, for example, in the communication record between the parking lot management server 50 and the on-site terminal 70 (payment machine AM) by the communication unit 52, and further, the communication record history may be transmitted to the information processing device MM and also recorded in the change history recording unit CR. In other words, the change history management unit 51m and the change history recording unit CR may be synchronized.

[0049] As described above, the on-site terminal 70 is configured by, for example, an adjustment machine AM installed in a parking lot (on-site), and includes a control unit 71 and a communication unit 72 to function as the adjustment machine AM.

[0050] The control unit 71 is composed of, for example, an electronic circuit, or a CPU, a storage device, etc., and functions as a parking fee setting unit FS and a settlement processing unit PT. That is, the control unit 71 functions as a parking fee setting unit FS by setting a parking fee based on the parking fee data DD among various information such as the parking fee data DD and image data DG received from the parking lot management server 50 via the communication unit 72. Also, the control unit 71 functions as a settlement processing unit PT by performing settlement processing at the time of leaving the parking lot according to the parking fee system set as the parking fee setting unit FS. That is, the on-site terminal 70 functions as an adjustment machine AM. Also, for example, the on-site terminal 70 (adjustment machine AM) may transmit the result of the settlement processing to the parking lot management server 50 each time, so that the parking lot management server 50 manages the fee.

[0051] In addition, the control unit 71 is connected to the electronic signage SGd, and transmits (outputs) the image data DG, i.e., the parking fee image ME, among various information such as the parking fee data DD and image data DG received from the parking lot management server 50, to the electronic signage SGd.

[0052] As already mentioned, the electronic signboard SGd is installed in an easily visible location within the parking lot PA or immediately adjacent to the parking lot PA, and forms the main body of the electronic signboard (display panel).It comprises a display unit DSg that displays (outputs) the parking fee image ME, and a display content memory unit DSr that stores the content to be displayed on the display unit DSg, i.e., the image data DG (parking fee image ME) information transmitted from the parking lot management server 50 via the on-site terminal 70.

[0053] The control unit 71 transmits information on the latest, i.e., changed, image data DG (parking fee image ME) to the electronic signboard SGd, and also transmits a command signal to switch the content to be output on the display unit DSg from the display content before the change to a display based on the latest image data DG. Furthermore, the control unit 71 receives the command signal, and upon receiving a completion notification that the switching operation has been performed, switches the processing to apply the latest payment processing to parking after the completion notification, thereby preventing discrepancies from occurring between the display content on the electronic signboard SGd and the content of the payment processing.

[0054] The user terminal TI includes a control unit TIc and a communication unit TIt in addition to the display unit DSt described above. The user terminal TI displays the image data DG, i.e., the parking fee image ME, received from the parking lot management server 50 via the communication unit TIt under the control of the control unit TIc on the display unit DSt. The parking lot management server 50 may distribute the parking fee image ME to the user terminal TI after receiving the completion of the switching operation for the parking fee image ME from the on-site terminal 70.

[0055] With the above-mentioned configuration, the parking fee image ME is generated by the parking fee image generation system 100 and the generated parking fee image ME is displayed in the parking management system 500. In addition, the parking fee image ME is also displayed on the user terminal TI.

[0056] An example of data handled in the parking fee image generation system 100 and the parking management system 500 will be described below with reference to Fig. 5. Fig. 5(A) is a data table showing an example of various data to be selected when changing the parking fee data DD, and Fig. 5(B) is a data table showing an example of data recorded in the change history recording unit CR or an equivalent change history management unit 51m.

[0057] The setting pattern data PD1 shown as a data table in FIG. 5(A) is based on the ranking of the price determination in the setting change of the parking fee, and corresponds to a part of the data stored in the setting pattern storage unit PR in FIG. 4. Here, the setting pattern data PD1 is set to a fee system ranked according to whether the parking lot PA is used in a busy season or a quiet season. For example, when comparing FIG. 3(A) with FIG. 3(B), the parking fee is set higher in FIG. 3(B), and is applied when FIG. 3(B) is relatively busier than FIG. 3(A). In the example shown in FIG. 5(A), the parking fee is ranked in six stages from a special busy season to a quiet season, and the parking fee change unit TC in FIG. 4 decides at which rank the parking fee price is set, for example, on a daily or weekly basis, and further depending on the parking situation of the parking lot PA. In this case, the fee system data FD1 and the display image generation program GP1 are determined for each set price rank RK1 in FIG. 5(A). In this case, the fee system data FD1 corresponds to the parking fee data DD, and the display image generating program GP1 corresponds to the image data DG, that is, the display image generating program GP1 is a program that creates image data DG (parking fee image ME) according to the fee system data FD1. The setting pattern selection unit PS of FIG. 4 selects one pattern from six ranks (setting patterns) as equivalent to the display layout information LI (see FIG. 1) according to the decision of the parking fee changing unit TC, thereby quickly and accurately setting the display layout. Also, based on the selected display image generating program GP1, the image creating unit MC quickly and accurately creates image data DG (parking fee image ME). That is, the display layout can be quickly changed according to the parking fee parameters corresponding to the rank. Also, in the above case, it can be said that the layout setting unit LS (see FIG. 4, etc.) selects one setting pattern from a plurality of setting patterns according to the changed parking fee parameters.

[0058] As shown in the history data HD1 illustrated in FIG. 5(B), when and which rank (setting pattern) was selected, that is, when the pattern was changed, is recorded as a change history in the change history recording unit CR or an equivalent change history management unit 51m. In this case, the result of the change process completion acceptance is also recorded as confirmation that the change process for the setting pattern has been completed in the parking management system 500. In the above example, in order to simplify the explanation, the setting pattern is set according to the six-level ranking by the setting pattern data PD1, but various setting patterns are possible. In other words, the setting pattern data PD1 is only one example. For example, a new pattern may be set by combining multiple setting patterns.

[0059] A modified example of the parking fee image generation system 100 and the parking management system 500 incorporating the same will be outlined below with reference to Fig. 6. Fig. 6 corresponds to Fig. 2, and differs from the example shown in Fig. 2 in that the on-site terminal 70 (payment adjustment machine AM) has a camera CAα disposed in a position capable of capturing an image of an electronic signboard SGd installed in the parking lot PA. In other words, this modified example is provided with a camera CAα as a confirmation unit that confirms the display state of the electronic signboard SGd.

[0060] The on-site terminal 70 analyzes the electronic signboard SGd captured by the camera CAα to check whether there is any abnormality in the display state of the electronic signboard SGd. In other words, it checks whether, for example, missing pixels occur when the image is displayed by emitting light from the electronic signboard SGd. In this case, the on-site terminal 70 may further analyze the image data captured by the electronic signboard SGd to check whether the data content is consistent with the data DD for parking fees.

[0061] In the above embodiment, for example, the on-site terminal 70 checks whether there is a problem with the state of the electronic signboard SGd captured by the camera CAα, and if there is no problem, notifies the parking lot management server 50 of the completion of change confirmation to that effect, and starts parking management corresponding to the changed contents when it receives permission to start from the parking lot management server 50 as a response to the completion of change confirmation. In this case, the parking lot management server 50 may transmit (send) image data DG to display a parking fee image ME to the user terminal TI after receiving the notification of the completion of change confirmation from the on-site terminal 70, as shown by the dashed arrow.

[0062] As described above, the parking fee image generation system 100 in this embodiment includes a layout setting unit LS that sets a display layout based on the signboard creation format GF according to the changes to the parking fee, and an image creation unit MC that creates a parking fee image ME (image data DG) according to the set display layout. In this case, the parking fee image generation system 100 creates a parking fee image ME according to the display layout set based on the parking fee creation format GF, making it possible to display the parking fee in an easy-to-read fee structure, and also enabling the creation of the parking fee image ME to be performed simply, quickly, and accurately.

[0063] In the above description, for ease of understanding, the information processing device MM constituting the parking fee image generation system 100 is described as being separate and independent from the parking lot management server 50 that manages the parking lots PA, but the information processing device MM and the parking lot management server 50 may be configured as a single server without being separated. For example, the parking lot management server 50 may include the functions of the information processing device MM, that is, the parking lot management server 50 may include even a layout setting unit LS and an image creation unit MC for functioning as the parking fee image generation system 100.

[0064] Furthermore, the layout setting unit LS and the image creation unit MC are not limited to the above-mentioned forms and can be implemented in various forms. For example, it is possible to configure the equivalent of the image creation unit MC to be provided on the parking lot PA side, i.e., on-site terminal 70 or electronic signage SGd.

[0065] In the above, the parking fee image generation system 100 is configured by the layout setting unit LS and the image creation unit MC, but in addition to these, for example, even the members that display the created parking fee image ME can be regarded as components. That is, the parking fee image generation system 100 may include the electronic signboard SGd and the user terminal TI. Furthermore, the parking fee image generation system 100 may also include each unit that configures the parking management system 500.

[0066] Second Embodiment Hereinafter, an example of the parking fee image generation system 100 according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 7. In this embodiment, compared with the parking fee image generation system 100 described as an example of the first embodiment, the parking fee data DD is transmitted (sent) from the parking management server 50 to the user terminal TI of the parking lot in addition to the parking fee image ME (image data DG), and the user terminal TI functions as a payment machine including the parking fee setting unit FS. In this case, for example, the parking lot PA may not be provided with an on-site terminal 70 (payment machine AM), and the parking fee image ME (image data DG) may be transmitted from the parking management server 50 to the electronic signboard SGd. Note that the overall configuration of the parking fee image generation system 100 other than the above viewpoint is the same as that of the first embodiment, so detailed description of each component indicated by the same reference numeral in the overall configuration will be omitted.

[0067] Fig. 7 is a conceptual diagram for explaining an overview of the parking fee image generation system 100 according to this embodiment, and corresponds to Fig. 1 etc. In this embodiment, as shown in the figure and as described above, parking fee data DD and image data DG are sent (transmitted) from the parking lot management server 50 to the user terminal TI.

[0068] Here, the user terminal TI is pre-registered for, for example, payment, and the contents of the pre-registration are managed by the parking lot management server 50. Users of the parking lot PA can pay parking fees on their own user terminals TI.

[0069] In the above embodiment, the on-site terminal 70 described with reference to FIG. 1 and the like may be installed in parallel with the user terminal TI, and settlement via the on-site terminal 70 may also be available.

[0070] As described above, in this embodiment, the parking fee image ME is created according to the display layout set based on the parking fee creation format, so that the parking fee can be displayed in an easy-to-read manner, and the parking fee image ME can be created simply, quickly, and accurately. In addition, in this embodiment, the parking fee settlement process (payment) can be performed by the user terminal TI.

[0071] Third Embodiment An example of the parking fee image generation system 100 according to the third embodiment will be described below with reference to Fig. 8. This embodiment differs from the other embodiments in that the parking fee image generation system 100 is incorporated in an on-site terminal 70, as compared with the parking fee image generation system 100 described as an example of the first embodiment, etc. Note that the overall configuration of the parking fee image generation system 100 other than the above viewpoint is the same as that of the first embodiment, and therefore detailed description of each component denoted by the same reference numeral in the overall configuration will be omitted.

[0072] FIG. 8 is a conceptual diagram for explaining an overview of the parking fee image generation system 100 according to this embodiment, and corresponds to FIG. 6 and the like. In this embodiment, as shown in the figure and as described above, the layout setting unit LS and the image creation unit MC constituting the parking fee image generation system 100 are incorporated inside the on-site terminal 70 of the parking management system 500. Furthermore, in the example shown in the figure, the on-site terminal 70 is provided with a camera CAα capable of capturing an image of an electronic signboard SGd. In this case, when the on-site terminal 70 prepares the parking fee data DD and image data DG as the parking fee image generation system 100, it outputs (displays) a parking fee image ME based on the image data DG on the display unit DSg of the electronic signboard SGd, and prepares for a settlement process based on the parking fee data DD to function as a settlement machine AM. Additionally, the on-site terminal 70 checks the display state of the parking fee image ME on the electronic signboard SGd by photographing it with the camera CAα, and if there is no problem, it transmits (transmits) the parking fee data DD and image data DG to the parking lot management server 50, and when it receives a start permission as a response, it starts parking management according to the set parking fee data DD and image data DG. Note that, after sending and receiving the start permission, the parking lot management server 50 or the on-site terminal 70 may transmit (transmit) the image data DG to the user terminal TI to display the parking fee image ME, as shown by the dashed arrow.

[0073] In the above configuration, the image creation unit MC is provided in the settlement machine AM (on-site terminal 70) installed at the site. The settlement machine AM (on-site terminal 70) outputs the parking fee image ME (image data DG) to devices that are external to the site, such as the parking lot management server 50 and the user terminal TI. Furthermore, the settlement machine AM (on-site terminal 70) is configured to confirm the fee setting based on the changed parking fee data DD after it is confirmed by the camera CAα that the parking fee image ME is visible on the electronic signboard SGd. In this case, the parking fee image ME can be created in the settlement machine AM. In addition, in this case, after it is confirmed that the created parking fee image ME is visible to the user on the electronic signboard SGd, the settlement machine AM can perform settlement processing in a fee system corresponding to this.

[0074] As described above, in this embodiment, the parking fee image ME is created according to the display layout set based on the parking fee creation format, so that the parking fee can be displayed in an easy-to-read format, and the parking fee image ME can be created simply, quickly, and accurately. Also, in this embodiment, the parking fee image creation system 100 can be incorporated into an on-site terminal 70 such as a payment machine AM installed in the parking lot.

[0075] In addition, in the above embodiment, the parking lot management server 50 may not exist, and parking lot management may be performed in a stand-alone manner by the on-site terminal 70.

[0076] [Fourth embodiment] Hereinafter, an example of the parking fee image generation system 100 according to the fourth embodiment will be described with reference to Figs. 9(A) and 9(B) and the like. In this embodiment, compared with the parking fee image generation system 100 described as an example of the first embodiment and the like, the parking fee image generation system 100 is different from the other embodiments in that, based on the parking fee image ME (image data DG) created by the parking fee image generation system 100, characters and the like are drawn on a plate-like member as illustrated in Fig. 9(B) to produce and install a real signboard SGb. That is, the image data DG corresponds to a copy image for producing the signboard SGb. Note that the overall configuration of the parking fee image generation system 100 is the same as that of the first embodiment except for the above-mentioned viewpoints, and therefore detailed description of each component indicated by the same reference numeral in the overall configuration will be omitted.

[0077] Figures 9(A) and 9(B) are conceptual diagrams for explaining the outline of the parking fee image generation system 100 according to this embodiment, and correspond to Figures 1 and the like. Figures 9(A) and 9(B) are conceptual diagrams for explaining the operation of the parking fee image generation system 100 according to this embodiment, particularly during initial setup.

[0078] 9(A) shows the state before the signboard is installed, and the on-site terminal 70 (payment machine AM) has a camera CAα at a position where it can capture the signboard's assumed position SGp. The on-site terminal 70 acquires parking fee data DD and image data DG from the information processing device MM constituting the parking fee image generation system 100 via the parking lot management server 50, as in the first embodiment described with reference to FIG. 2.

[0079] Next, as shown in Fig. 9(B), when an actual signboard SGb depicting a parking fee image ME based on image data DG stored in the information processing device MM is installed at the signboard assumed position SGp in the parking lot PA, the on-site terminal 70 captures an image of the signboard SGb with a camera CAα and compares it with the parking fee data DD and image data DG previously acquired. For example, it is confirmed whether the contents of the signboard SGb match the image data DG stored in the on-site terminal 70. In this case, the image data of the captured signboard SGb may be subjected to an analysis process such as OCR processing to compare it with the parking fee data DD.

[0080] If the result of the above comparison shows that there are no problems, the on-site terminal 70 notifies the parking lot management server 50 of the completion of installation confirmation, and when it receives permission to start from the parking lot management server 50 in response to the completion of installation confirmation, it begins parking management according to the contents of the stored parking fee data DD.

[0081] 10(A) and 10(B), when the contents of the parking fee data DD and image data DG are changed, that is, when the settings are changed, first, as shown in FIG. 10(A), the information processing device MM constituting the parking fee image generating system 100 transmits the changed contents of the parking fee data DD and image data DG to the on-site terminal 70 via the parking management server 50. In parallel with this, as shown in FIG. 10(B), the signboard SGb as the actual object on which the parking fee image ME based on the changed image data DG is drawn is changed (changing from the parking fee image MEα to the parking fee image MEβ), that is, the signboard SGb is replaced or corrected. When the changed signboard SGb is installed, the on-site terminal 70 captures the signboard SGb with the camera CAα, and performs various operations such as checking as in the case described with reference to FIG. 9. If there is no problem, the on-site terminal 70 notifies the parking management server 50 of the completion of the change confirmation to that effect, and when it receives a start permission from the parking management server 50 as a response to the completion of the change confirmation, it starts parking management corresponding to the contents of the changed parking fee data DD stored therein.

[0082] As described above, in this embodiment, the parking fee image ME is created according to the display layout set based on the parking fee creation format, so that the parking fee can be displayed in an easy-to-read format, and the parking fee image ME can be created simply, quickly, and accurately. Also, in this embodiment, parking management can be performed based on the changed content according to the installation timing of the actual signboard SGb.

[0083] 〔others〕 The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and can be embodied in various forms without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

[0084] First, the matters described in each of the above embodiments are merely examples, and various modifications are possible without being limited to these. For example, it is also possible to adopt an appropriate combination of the aspects described in each of the above embodiments.

[0085] In the above, for example, a QR code (registered trademark) may be displayed on the parking lot PA, and the parking fee image ME may be displayed by reading the QR code (registered trademark) with the user terminal TI. In this case, for example, the parking fee may differ for each vehicle space in the parking lot PA, and the content displayed on the parking fee image ME may differ accordingly.

[0086] In the above, the parking lot manager and other users' operation inputs and information on the external environment related to the parking lot PA are accepted, and changes to the parking fee data DD are accepted in response to these inputs. However, various types of information on the external environment are possible. For example, information on the parking situation in nearby parking lots may be acquired as information on the external environment, and based on this, future changes in the surrounding conditions of the parking lot PA may be predicted, and dynamic pricing may be performed to maximize profits from the use of the parking lot. In other words, the parking fee change unit TC may determine the change price of the parking fee based on the relationship between the information acquired by the information acceptance unit IR and the number of vacant cars in the parking lot PA. [Explanation of symbols]

[0087] 50... parking lot management server, 51... control unit, 51d... parking management database, 51m... change history management unit, 52... communication unit, 70... on-site terminal, 71... control unit, 72... communication unit, 100... parking fee image generation system, 500... parking management system, A0... arrow, A0 to A4... arrow, A2... arrow, AM... payment machine, AN... data analysis unit, B1 to B4... arrow, CAα... camera (confirmation unit), CR... change history recording unit, DD... parking fee data, DDα... first data, DDβ... second data, DG, DGα, DGβ... image data, DSg... display unit, DSr... display content memory unit, DSt... display unit, FD1... fee system data, FS... parking fee setting setting unit, GF...signboard creation format, GP1...display image generation program, HD1...history data, IR...information reception unit, LI, LIα, LIβ...information, LS...layout setting unit, MC...image creation unit, ME, MEα, MEβ, MEγ...parking fee image (fee display image), MM...information processing device, PA...parking lot, PD1...setting pattern data, PR...setting pattern storage unit, PS...setting pattern selection unit, PT...payment processing unit, RK1...setting price rank, SGb...signboard, SGd...electronic signboard, SGp...signboard assumed position, TC...parking fee change unit, TE...communication unit, TI...user terminal (communication terminal), TIc...control unit, TIt...communication unit

Claims

1. a layout setting unit that refers to data on rules for the arrangement and size of character strings stored as a signboard creation format in accordance with the change in parking fees, and sets a display layout based on the results of the reference; an image creation unit that creates an image of the parking fee according to the set display layout; A parking fee image generating system comprising:

2. 2. The parking fee image generating system according to claim 1, wherein the layout setting unit selects one setting pattern from a plurality of setting patterns in accordance with a changed parameter of the parking fee.

3. 3. The parking fee image generating system according to claim 1, further comprising a change history recording unit that records a history of changes to the parking fee together with the time of the change.

4. 4. The parking fee image generating system according to claim 1, further comprising a parking lot management server that distributes the parking fee image to a communication terminal held by a user of the parking lot.

5. The image creation unit is provided in a payment machine installed at the site, The parking fee image generating system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the payment machine outputs the parking fee image to the outside, and after it is confirmed by imaging the parking fee image that the parking fee image is in a visible state, it confirms the changed parking fee setting.

6. 6. The parking fee image generating system according to claim 1, further comprising an electronic signboard that is installed at the site and receives and displays the parking fee image from the image generating unit.

7. A parking fee image generation system as described in claim 6, comprising a camera as a confirmation unit that is arranged in a position where the electronic signboard can be imaged and that confirms the display status of the electronic signboard by imaging.

Images