Information processing device and communication system

Abstract

To provide a system capable of quickly transmitting information.SOLUTION: An information processing device including a first communication module using a cellular communication network, and a second communication module using a radio communication network other than the cellular communication network performs prescribed processing about communication performed by the first communication module in the case of receiving first data through the second communication module.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to mobile communications. [Background technology]

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art Systems that use on-board computers to collect information are becoming widespread (see, for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2020-167557 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The present disclosure aims to provide a system that can quickly transmit information. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] One aspect of an embodiment of the present disclosure is an information processing device having a first communication module that uses a cellular communication network, a second communication module that uses a wireless communication network other than the cellular communication network, and a control unit that performs predetermined processing related to communication performed by the first communication module when first data is received via the second communication module.

[0006] One aspect of an embodiment of the present disclosure is an information processing device capable of communicating with a mobile terminal having a first communication module and a second communication module, and having a control unit that, when a predetermined trigger occurs, transmits first data to the mobile terminal communicating using the second communication module to make the first communication module available.

[0007] One aspect of an embodiment of the present disclosure is a communication system including a first device having a first communication module that uses a cellular communication network and a second communication module that uses a wireless communication network other than the cellular communication network, and a second device, wherein when a predetermined trigger occurs, the second device transmits first data to the first device, which is communicating using the second communication module, to make the first communication module available, and when the first device receives the first data, it attaches to the cellular communication network.

[0008] Another aspect of the present disclosure is a program for causing a computer to execute the method executed by the information processing device described above, or a computer-readable storage medium non-transiently storing the program. Effect of the Invention

[0009] According to the present disclosure, a system capable of quickly transmitting information can be provided. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram of a vehicle system according to a first embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating components of a vehicle according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3A] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating functional modules included in a control unit. [Figure 3B] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating data stored in a storage unit. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating functional modules included in the server device. [Diagram 5] FIG. 1 is a flow diagram showing the flow of processing performed by components of the system. [Figure 6] 11 is a flowchart of a process executed in step S10. [Figure 7] 1 is a flow diagram of a process for attaching a DCM to a cellular network. [Figure 8] 11 is a flowchart of a process executed in step S30. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0011] In recent years, automobiles that can connect to networks have become widespread. By providing network connections, devices installed in the vehicles can provide support services in emergencies and security-related services. Such devices are also called data communication modules (DCMs). DCMs can communicate using communication standards such as cellular communication and wireless LAN.

[0012] Depending on the communication standard used by DCM, there is a problem that communication opportunities are not provided equally. For example, a vehicle that has a communication contract for cellular communication can communicate at any time while driving, whereas a vehicle that does not have such a contract cannot communicate unless it is within the service area of ​​a public wireless LAN, for example. The information processing device according to the present disclosure solves such a problem.

[0013] An information processing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is characterized in having a first communication module that uses a cellular communication network, a second communication module that uses a wireless communication network other than the cellular communication network, and a control unit that performs predetermined processing related to communication performed by the first communication module when first data is received via the second communication module.

[0014] The information processing device according to the present disclosure is typically a communication device mounted on a vehicle. The information processing device has a first communication module and a second communication module. The first communication module is a communication module that uses a cellular communication network (mobile communication network), and the second communication module is a communication module that uses other wireless communication networks. The second communication module performs communication using a public wireless LAN network, a road-to-vehicle communication network, an inter-vehicle communication network, etc., according to a communication standard such as IEEE802.11, DSRC, or millimeter wave communication.

[0015] By using a cellular communication network, stable communication can be performed even while moving. However, in order to use a cellular communication network, it is necessary to conclude a communication contract and pay a usage fee, so that a vehicle user may use a device without concluding a communication contract. On the other hand, networks such as public wireless LANs can be used free of charge, but communication is not possible in places where there are no access points. Furthermore, if such networks use wireless communication standards that do not allow handover, communication may be interrupted as the vehicle moves.

[0016] When the control unit receives the first data via the second communication module, the control unit performs a predetermined process related to the communication performed by the first communication module. For example, the predetermined process may be a process of temporarily opening a cellular line to allow important communication to be performed.

[0017] The first data is typically data notifying the occurrence of an event that requires switching the module used for communication from the second communication module to the first communication module, such as data notifying the occurrence of an earthquake, a disaster, or an important vehicle recall. In addition, if a contract for using the first communication module has not been concluded by the user, the first communication module is temporarily connected to the cellular communication network using temporary contract information. You may touch it.

[0018] With this configuration, in the event of a disaster or other emergency, it becomes possible for the vehicle to temporarily use the cellular communication network, making it possible to provide a stable communication environment.

[0019] An information processing device according to another aspect of the present disclosure is a device that transmits the above-mentioned first data. Specifically, the device has a control unit that, when a specified trigger occurs, transmits first data to a mobile terminal that is communicating using a second communication module, to enable use of the first communication module.

[0020] As described above, the first data may be data instructing to switch the communication module, or may be data (such as contract information) for validating the first communication module. The predetermined trigger may be, for example, a trigger that occurs when it is determined that the mobile terminal (vehicle) needs to perform important communication.

[0021] 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.

[0022] First Embodiment An overview of a vehicle system according to a first embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 1. The vehicle system according to this embodiment includes a vehicle 10 and a server device 20.

[0023] The vehicle 10 is a connected car having a communication function with an external network. The vehicle 10 includes a DCM (Data Communication Module) 100, an in-vehicle device 200, and an electronic control The system includes a unit 300 (also called an Electronic Control Unit, ECU). Although a single ECU 300 is illustrated in FIG. 1, the vehicle 10 may include a plurality of ECUs 300.

[0024] The DCM 100 is a device that performs wireless communication with an external network. The DCM 100 functions as a gateway for connecting components of the vehicle 10 (hereinafter, vehicle components) to the external network. For example, the DCM 100 provides access to the external network for the in-vehicle device 200 and the ECU 300 of the vehicle 10. This allows the in-vehicle device 200 and the ECU 300 to communicate with external devices connected to the network via the DCM 100.

[0025] The DCM 100 is configured to be capable of communication using two communication paths: a mobile communication network and a local network. The mobile communication network is a communication network that uses a cellular network (hereinafter, cellular communication network), and a communication contract is required to use it. When the cellular communication network is used, access to an external network is possible even when the vehicle 10 is moving.

[0026] The local network is a network provided at a predetermined access point, such as a wireless LAN network, etc. The vehicle 10 can access an external network only within a range where wireless communication with the access point is possible.

[0027] The DCM 100 is configured to be able to store contract information for using a cellular communication network, and when there is valid contract information relating to a communication contract concluded by a user, the DCM 100 communicates via the cellular communication network. When there is no contract information, the DCM 100 communicates only via a local network. Access to external networks is provided via this port.

[0028] The in-vehicle device 200 is a device that provides information to the vehicle occupants. The in-vehicle device 200 is also called a car navigation device, an infotainment device, or a head unit. The in-vehicle device 200 can provide navigation and entertainment to the vehicle occupants. The in-vehicle device 200 may download traffic information, road map data, music, moving images, and the like via the DCM 100.

[0029] The server device 20 is a device that provides information to the vehicle 10. In this embodiment, the server device 20 provides highly urgent information such as disaster-related information and vehicle safety-related information. Examples of disaster-related information include information on the occurrence status of a disaster, information on evacuation, and information on lifelines. Furthermore, vehicle safety-related information includes recall information. When the DCM 100 mounted on the vehicle 10 receives such information, it provides the information via the in-vehicle device 200. Furthermore, the server device 20 may be capable of distributing data related to the safety of the vehicle, such as software for updating the ECU.

[0030] 2 is a diagram illustrating components of a vehicle 10 according to this embodiment. The vehicle 10 according to this embodiment includes a DCM 100, an in-vehicle device 200, and a plurality of ECUs 300A, 300B, . . . (hereinafter collectively referred to as ECUs 300). The ECU 300 may include a plurality of ECUs each responsible for a different vehicle component, such as a body ECU, an engine ECU, a hybrid ECU, and a powertrain ECU.

[0031] The DCM 100 is configured to include a first communication module 110, a second communication module 120, a GPS antenna 130, a GPS module 140, a control unit 101, a storage unit 102, and a communication unit 103.

[0032] The first communication module 110 is a communication module that communicates with the outside world by cellular communication. The first communication module 110 includes an antenna element that inputs and outputs wireless signals. In this embodiment, the antenna element is compatible with mobile communications (e.g., 3G, LTE, 5G, etc.).

[0033] The second communication module 120 is a communication module that communicates with the outside world using a communication standard other than cellular communication. Examples of communication standards that the second communication module 120 can employ include Wi-Fi (registered trademark), DSRC (Dedicated Short Range Communications), and millimeter wave communication. The second communication module 120, like the first communication module, is configured to include an antenna element that inputs and outputs wireless signals. The antenna may be configured to include multiple physical antennas. For example, when performing mobile communication using radio waves in a high frequency band such as microwaves or millimeter waves, multiple antennas may be distributed and arranged to stabilize the communication.

[0034] The GPS antenna 130 is an antenna that receives positioning signals transmitted from positioning satellites (also called GNSS satellites). The GPS module 140 is a module that calculates position information based on the signal received by the GPS antenna 130 .

[0035] The control unit 101 is a calculation unit that executes a predetermined program to realize various functions of the DCM 100. The control unit 101 may be realized by, for example, a CPU or the like. .

[0036] The control unit 101 executes a function of mediating communication between an external network and components (vehicle components) of the vehicle 10. For example, when a vehicle component needs to communicate with an external network, the control unit 101 executes a function of relaying data transmitted from the vehicle component to the external network. It also executes a function of receiving data transmitted from the external network and transferring the data to an appropriate vehicle component.

[0037] Furthermore, the control unit 101 can execute functions unique to the device itself. For example, the control unit 101 is configured to be able to execute a monitoring function of a security system and a calling function, and can make a security report, an emergency report, or the like, based on a trigger that occurs inside the vehicle.

[0038] The storage unit 102 is a memory device including a main storage device and an auxiliary storage device. The auxiliary storage device stores an operating system (OS), various programs, various tables, etc., and by loading the programs stored therein into the main storage device and executing them, it is possible to realize various functions that meet a predetermined purpose, as described below.

[0039] The communication unit 103 is an interface unit for connecting the DCM 100 to an in-vehicle network. In this embodiment, a plurality of vehicle components including the in-vehicle device 200 and the ECU 300 are connected to each other via a bus 400 of the in-vehicle network. For example, a controller area network (CAN) can be used as a standard for the in-vehicle network. In addition, when the in-vehicle network uses multiple standards, the communication unit 103 may have multiple interface devices that match the standards of the communication destination. As a communication standard other than CAN, for example, Ethernet (registered trademark) can be exemplified.

[0040] The DCM 100 may be configured to operate independently of other components of the vehicle 10. For example, the DCM 100 may be equipped with an auxiliary battery so that the DCM 100 can operate independently without relying on an external power source. With this configuration, even if other components of the vehicle 10 malfunction (e.g., power supply failure) due to a traffic accident or the like, it becomes possible to make an emergency call or the like.

[0041] Next, the functions executed by the control unit 101 will be described. A1 is a schematic diagram illustrating functional modules included in the control unit 101. The functional modules included in the control unit 101 can be realized by the control unit 101 executing a program stored in a storage unit such as a ROM.

[0042] The data relay unit 1011 relays data transmitted and received between vehicle components. For example, the data relay unit 1011 receives a message sent by a first device connected to the in-vehicle network, and executes a process of transferring the message to a second device connected to the in-vehicle network as necessary. The first and second devices may be the ECU 300 or other vehicle components. Furthermore, when a message addressed to an external network is received from a vehicle component, the data relay unit 1011 relays the message to the external network. Also, the data relay unit 1011 receives data transmitted from the external network and transfers the data to an appropriate vehicle component.

[0043] The emergency call unit 1012 makes an emergency call to an operator outside the vehicle when an abnormality occurs in the vehicle 10. Examples of the abnormality include a traffic accident and a vehicle breakdown. The emergency call unit 1012 makes an emergency call to an operator outside the vehicle when an abnormality occurs in the vehicle 10 when, for example, a call button provided in the vehicle is pressed or an airbag is deployed. When a predetermined trigger occurs, such as a call being opened, the emergency call unit 1012 starts a connection with an operator, enabling a call between the vehicle occupant and the operator. When making an emergency call, the emergency call unit 1012 may transmit the vehicle's location information to the operator. In this case, the emergency call unit 1012 may obtain the location information from the GPS module 140.

[0044] The security management unit 1013 performs security monitoring processing. For example, based on data received from the ECU 300 that manages the electronic lock of the vehicle, the security management unit 1013 detects that the vehicle has been unlocked without following a normal procedure, and transmits a security notification to a predetermined device. The security notification may include vehicle location information. In this case, the security management unit 1013 may obtain the location information from the GPS module 140. When the security management unit 1013 determines that a problem has occurred with the security of the vehicle, the security management unit 1013 may obtain the location information and periodically transmit the obtained location information to a pre-specified external device.

[0045] The remote control unit 1014 controls the operation of components of the vehicle 10 based on a request transmitted from outside the vehicle 10. Components that are the target of remote control are typically air conditioning devices such as a car air conditioner, but may be other components. For example, seat heaters, steering heaters, defrosters, etc. may be the targets of remote control. The remote control unit 1014 receives, for example, from an external network, a command to operate the air conditioning of the vehicle 10, and operates one of a plurality of air conditioning devices based on the command.

[0046] The information providing unit 1015 receives information transmitted by the server device 20 and provides the same to the occupant. The information provided by the server device 20 is typically highly urgent information as described above, but the information providing unit 1015 may receive and output other information. When highly urgent information is received, the information providing unit 1015 outputs a message, image, sound, etc. via the in-vehicle device 200. At this time, an interruption to existing processing may be made. For example, when highly urgent information is received while navigation guidance is being provided, navigation may be interrupted and the received information may be output.

[0047] The update unit 1016 updates software used by its own device (DCM 100) or an electronic control unit (ECU 300) of the vehicle 10. For example, the update unit 1016 manages the versions of firmware stored in a plurality of ECUs 300, and when new firmware is provided by an external device, downloads it via a network and executes a process of applying it to the target device.

[0048] Although the functions provided by the DCM 100 are listed here as an emergency call function, a security function, a remote control function, an information provision function, and a software update function, the DCM 100 may have other functions. For example, the DCM 100 may have a driving diagnosis function, a driver status monitoring function, an energy management function, and the like.

[0049] The line management unit 1017 manages the communication lines used by the DCM 100 . Here, we will explain the communication lines that can be used by the DCM 100. As shown in Fig. 1, the DCM 100 can communicate with an external network via either a communication path that uses a cellular communication network or a communication path that uses a local network.

[0050] If there is valid contract information for cellular communication, the line management unit 1017 attaches the device to the cellular communication network. If there is no valid contract information, the line management unit 1017 connects only to the local network. When both the cellular communication network and the local network are available, the line management unit 1017 gives priority to the local network for communication.

[0051] As described above, if a communication contract for using a cellular communication network is not concluded, the DCM 100 communicates using only the local network. However, if only the local network is used, there is a risk of delay in information transmission in the event of a disaster or when it is necessary to transmit an emergency message. Furthermore, there is a risk of secondary damage occurring if the vehicle occupants are unable to talk to an operator in an emergency.

[0052] Therefore, in this embodiment, when a message notifying the occurrence of an emergency (hereinafter, an emergency message) is transmitted from the server device 20, the line management unit 1017 temporarily opens the cellular line using contract information that can be used only under limited conditions. This enables the DCM 100 to perform important communications. A specific method will be described later.

[0053] FIG. 3B is a diagram illustrating data stored in storage unit 102. As shown in FIG. The storage unit 102 is configured to be able to store user contract information 102A and limited contract information 102B. Each of these pieces of contract information includes an identifier unique to a cellular communication subscriber and a telephone number. The user contract information 102A is information about a communication contract concluded by the user. When valid user contract information 102A is stored, the line management unit 1017 uses the user contract information to attach to the cellular communication network. The limited contract information 102B is information about a communication contract that is used in a limited manner when an emergency has been notified. The communication contract is, for example, concluded with a communication company by a vehicle manufacturer. Even if the valid user contract information 102A is not stored, the DCM 100 can perform cellular communication in a limited manner in the above-mentioned circumstances.

[0054] Returning to FIG. 2, the in-vehicle device 200 will be described. The in-vehicle device 200 is a device that provides information to the passengers of the vehicle 10, and is also called a car navigation system, an infotainment system, or a head unit. The in-vehicle device 200 can provide navigation and entertainment to the passengers of the vehicle. The in-vehicle device 200 may also have a function of downloading traffic information, road map data, music, videos, and the like by communicating with an external network of the vehicle 10. The in-vehicle device 200 may also be a device that cooperates with a smartphone or the like.

[0055] The in-vehicle device 200 also functions as a front end of the DCM 100. For example, when the DCM 100 executes a predetermined process (e.g., an emergency call), the in-vehicle device 200 inputs and outputs information related to the process (e.g., displaying the call status of an operator). When the information providing unit 1015 receives information, the in-vehicle device 200 outputs the information.

[0056] The in-vehicle device 200 can be configured as a computer having a processor such as a CPU or a GPU, a main memory such as a RAM or a ROM, and an auxiliary memory such as an EPROM, a hard disk drive, or a removable medium. The auxiliary memory stores an operating system (OS), various programs, various tables, and the like, and by executing the programs stored therein, various functions that match a predetermined purpose, as described below, can be realized. However, some or all of the functions may be realized by a hardware circuit such as an ASIC or an FPGA.

[0057] The in-vehicle device 200 includes a control unit 201, a storage unit 202, a communication unit 203, and an input / output unit 20 It is composed of 4.

[0058] The control unit 201 is a unit that controls the in-vehicle device 200. The control unit 201 is, for example, an information processing unit such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit). It is composed of logical units.

[0059] The control unit 201 provides information to the vehicle occupants. The provided information includes, for example, traffic information, navigation information, music and video, radio broadcasts, digital television broadcasts, etc. The control unit 201 outputs information via the input / output unit 204.

[0060] The storage unit 202 is a means for storing information, and is configured with a storage medium such as a RAM, a magnetic disk, a flash memory, etc. The storage unit 202 stores various programs executed by the control unit 201, data used by the programs, etc.

[0061] The communication unit 203 is a communication interface that connects the in-vehicle device 200 to a bus 400 of an in-vehicle network.

[0062] The input / output unit 204 is a means for accepting input operations performed by the user and presenting information to the user. Specifically, it is composed of a touch panel and its control means, and a liquid crystal display and its control means. In this embodiment, the touch panel and the liquid crystal display are composed of one touch panel display. The input / output unit 204 may also have a speaker for outputting sound.

[0063] The ECU 300 is an electronic control unit that controls components of the vehicle 10. The vehicle 10 may include a plurality of ECUs 300. The plurality of ECUs 300 each control components of a different system, such as an engine system, an electrical system, and a powertrain system. The ECU 300 has a function of generating a prescribed message and periodically transmitting and receiving the message via an in-vehicle network.

[0064] Furthermore, the ECU 300 can provide a predetermined service by communicating with an external network via the DCM 100. Examples of the predetermined service include a remote service (e.g., a remote air conditioning service), a security monitoring service, a service linked to a smart home, and an automatic parking service (a service for automatically driving between a parking space and a building entrance).

[0065] Like the DCM 100, the ECU 300 can be configured as a computer having a processor such as a CPU or GPU, a main storage device such as a RAM or ROM, and an auxiliary storage device such as an EPROM, a disk drive, or removable media.

[0066] The network bus 400 is a communication bus that constitutes an in-vehicle network. Although one bus is illustrated in this example, the vehicle 10 may have two or more communication buses. The multiple communication buses may be connected to each other by the DCM 100 or a gateway that manages the multiple communication buses.

[0067] Next, a description will be given of the server device 20. Fig. 4 is a schematic diagram of the server device 20 in the first embodiment.

[0068] The server device 20 can be configured as 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.

[0069] The server device 20 includes a control unit 21, a storage unit 22, and a communication unit . The control unit 21 is a calculation device that manages the control performed by the server device 20. The control unit 21 can be realized by a calculation processing device such as a CPU. The control unit 21 is configured to have, as functional modules, a data providing unit 211 and a message transmitting unit 212. Each functional module may be realized by executing a stored program by a CPU.

[0070] The data providing unit 211 provides information to the vehicle 10 (DCM100). The provided information may include, for example, information on a disaster, or other information of high urgency. Note that, in the present embodiment, an example is given in which the server device 20 provides information of high urgency, but the server device 20 may also function as a device that provides other information (for example, traffic information, navigation-related information, etc.) to the DCM100 or the in-vehicle device 200.

[0071] The message transmission unit 212 transmits to the DCM 100 a message (emergency message) notifying the occurrence of an emergency and a message (relief message) notifying the lifting of the emergency. An emergency message may be sent, for example, when an emergency such as an earthquake or flood occurs, or when an emergency is expected to occur, or it may be sent prior to the time when important information, such as vehicle recall information, should be distributed. The emergency message can be regarded as an instruction to the DCM 100 to connect to the cellular communication network using the limited contract information 102B. By transmitting the emergency message, the DCM 100 can temporarily perform cellular communication regardless of whether or not there is a communication contract.

[0072] The cancellation message is transmitted at a timing when the vehicle 10 no longer needs to perform important communications. For example, if the emergency message is transmitted in conjunction with the issuance of a weather warning, the cancellation message may be transmitted when the warning is cancelled.

[0073] The storage unit 22 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 21 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 21 and data used by the control programs are stored.

[0074] The communication unit 23 is a communication interface for connecting the server device 20 to a network. The communication unit 23 includes, for example, a network interface board and a wireless communication interface for wireless communication.

[0075] Next, an overview of the process in which the server device 20 connects the DCM 100 to the cellular communication network will be described. Fig. 5 is a flow diagram showing an overview of the process. The illustrated flow is started when the server device 20 determines that it is necessary for the vehicle 10 to perform important communication.

[0076] When it is determined that important communication needs to be performed by the vehicle 10, the server device 20 transmits an emergency message to the multiple vehicles 10 under its management. The emergency message is transmitted to the DCM 100 via, for example, a local network.

[0077] In response to the emergency message, the vehicle 10 (DCM 100) prepares for cellular communication (step S10). In this step, the DCM 100 checks whether the valid user contract information 102A is valid. If it is determined that the user does not have valid user contract information, the device prepares for cellular communication using limited contract information 102B. This makes it possible to open a cellular communication line even if the user has not made an individual communication contract.

[0078] When the cellular communication line is opened, each functional module of the DCM 100 can communicate via the cellular communication network (step S20). This allows, for example, the emergency call unit 1012 to constantly provide a function for calling an operator. Also, the information providing unit 1015 can wait for important information. Also, the update unit 1016 can receive data for performing important updates to the firmware. The other party with which DCM 100 communicates via the cellular communication network may be server device 20, or may be another device on an external network (eg, a device that accepts emergency calls).

[0079] When the server device 20 determines that it is no longer necessary for the vehicle 10 to perform important communications, a release message is transmitted from the server device 20 to the DCM 100. When the DCM 100 receives the release message, it terminates the use of the limited contract information 102B (step S30). This causes the DCM 100 to be detached from the cellular communication network.

[0080] 6 is a flowchart showing the process in step S10 in more detail. The process shown in the figure is executed by the line management unit 1017 included in the DCM 100. First, in step S101, an emergency message transmitted by the server device 20 is received. The emergency message is received via either a cellular communication network or a local network.

[0081] In step S102, it is determined whether the emergency message was received via a cellular line. If the determination is positive, this means that cellular communication is already possible, and the process ends. If the determination is negative, the process proceeds to step S103.

[0082] In step S103, it is determined whether or not there is a communication contract related to cellular communication. For example, if the user contract information 102A is stored in the storage unit 102, this step is determined as positive. Here, if there is a communication contract related to cellular communication, the process proceeds to step S104, and it is determined to attach to the cellular communication network using the user contract information 102A. Note that if attachment to the cellular communication network has already been performed, this step may be skipped. If there is no communication contract for cellular communication, the process proceeds to step S105, where it is determined to attach to the cellular communication network using limited contract information 102B.

[0083] Next, the process of attaching to a cellular communication network will be described. FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining a process in which the first communication module 110 of the DCM 100 attaches the DCM 100 to a cellular communication network. First, in step S201, contract information is acquired and an attach request including the contract information is generated. The generated attach request is transmitted to an MME (Mobility Management Entity) which is a control node included in the cellular communication network. In step S202, the MME transmits the contract information included in the attach request to a Home Subscriber Server (HSS), which is a node that manages subscriber information, and requests authentication. If the authentication is successful, the location registration of the terminal is executed. In step S203, the MME selects a server based on APN (Access Point Name) information. The DCM 100 identifies a cellular gateway (SGW) and requests the SGW to set up a bearer. Based on the response from the SGW, the DCM 100 sends a radio bearer setup request to the DCM 100. When the DCM 100 responds to this, communication via the cellular communication network is started.

[0084] On the other hand, when the server device 20 transmits a release message to the DCM 100, the DCM 100 stops attaching to the cellular communication network using the limited contract information. The release message is sent, for example, when the following conditions are met: (1) If it is determined that there is no specified emergency situation. For example, this may be the case when a predetermined time has passed since the occurrence of an earthquake, or when a weather warning or the like has been lifted. (2) When it is determined that important communication has been completed For example, this may be the case when recall information transmission or ECU firmware transmission is completed.

[0085] FIG. 8 is a detailed flow chart showing the process executed in step S30 by the DCM 100 upon receiving the release message.

[0086] First, in step S301, the release message transmitted by the server device 20 is received. The release message is received via the cellular line. In step S302, the device determines whether or not it is attached to the cellular communication network using the limited contract information. If the determination is negative, the process ends. If the determination is positive, the process proceeds to step S303, where the device detaches from the cellular communication network. This ends the cellular communication using the limited contract information.

[0087] As described above, the DCM 100 according to this embodiment stores contract information (limited contract information) that is used in a limited manner under a specific situation, and when an emergency message is received, attaches to a cellular communication network using the limited contract information. According to this embodiment, it becomes possible to connect the vehicle 10 to the cellular communication network and transmit and receive data during a period when highly urgent communication is required. For example, if the DCM 100 uses only a local network, communication will be interrupted as soon as the vehicle starts to move. However, by connecting the DCM 100 to a cellular communication network, data transmission and reception can be continued.

[0088] (Modification of the first embodiment) In the first embodiment, cellular communication is exemplified as one of the communication standards used by the DCM 100, but other communication standards may be used by the DCM 100. For example, the DCM 100 may perform communication using a first communication channel and a second communication channel having a narrower communication range than the first communication channel.

[0089] In the first embodiment, the server device 20 transmits an emergency message to all the vehicles 10, but if the server device 20 knows whether a plurality of vehicles have a communication contract, the server device 20 may transmit an emergency message only to the vehicles that do not have a communication contract. Also, the server device 20 may transmit a release message only to the vehicle that transmitted the emergency message.

[0090] Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the server device 20 transmits an emergency message, and the DCM 100 responds to this and starts using the limited contract information, but the limited contract information may be included in the emergency message.

[0091] In the first embodiment, the DCM 100 detaches from the cellular communication network in response to the release message, but the detachment process may be executed based on other triggers. For example, when a predetermined period of time has passed since the reception of an emergency message, or when necessary data is not received, When the DCM 100 determines that the transmission has been completed, the DCM 100 may execute the detachment. Note that the DCM 100 may receive detailed information on the necessary data from the server device 20 in advance.

[0092] (Other variations) 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.

[0093] 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.

[0094] 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]

[0095] 10. Vehicle 20. Server equipment 100··DCM 200...In-vehicle equipment 300···ECU 101, 201, 21... Control unit 102,202,22...Storage section 103,203,23...Communications Department 104,204...Input / output section 110: First communication module 120...Second communication module 130 GPS antenna 140 GPS module

Claims

1. a first communication module that utilizes a cellular communication network; a second communication module that uses a wireless communication network other than the cellular communication network; a control unit that is used by the first communication module and is configured to be capable of acquiring first contract information, which is information regarding a communication contract concluded by a user, and second contract information, which is information regarding a communication contract that is valid under a limited situation; the control unit, when receiving first data via the second communication module, performs a predetermined process related to communication performed by the first communication module on condition that valid first contract information cannot be acquired; the predetermined process is a process of attaching to the cellular communication network using the second contract information; Information processing device.

2. The control unit detaches from the cellular communication network when a predetermined trigger occurs. The information processing device according to claim 1 .

3. The trigger occurs when the control unit receives second data via the second communication module. The information processing device according to claim 2 .

4. the first data includes information notifying an occurrence of an emergency; The second data includes information notifying the end of the emergency situation. The information processing device according to claim 3 .

5. A first communication module that utilizes a cellular communication network; a second communication module that uses a wireless communication network other than the cellular communication network; First data including information for notifying an occurrence of an emergency via the second communication module. a control unit that performs a predetermined process related to communication performed by the first communication module when the first communication module receives the having the predetermined process is a process of attaching to the cellular communication network, the control unit detaches from the cellular communication network when receiving second data including information notifying the cancellation of the emergency state via the second communication module. Information processing device.

6. The trigger occurs when the control unit completes receiving predetermined data via the first communication module. The information processing device according to claim 2 .

7. An information processing device capable of communicating with a mobile terminal having a first communication module that uses a cellular communication network and a second communication module that uses a wireless communication network in which handover cannot be performed, a control unit that transmits, when a predetermined trigger occurs, to the mobile terminal that is communicating using the second communication module, first data for enabling the first communication module to be used; The first data includes contract information that is valid under limited circumstances, The control unit causes the mobile terminal to attach to the cellular communication network using the contract information. Information processing device.

8. A first device having a first communication module that uses a cellular communication network and a second communication module that uses a wireless communication network other than the cellular communication network; A second device; A communication system comprising: The second device comprises: When a predetermined trigger occurs, transmitting first data to the first device communicating using the second communication module to enable the first communication module; The first device comprises: receiving the first data and, if no communication contract exists for a user of the first device, attaching to the cellular communication network using contract information that is valid under limited circumstances; Communication systems.

9. the second device transmits second data to the first device when a second trigger occurs; the first device detaches from the cellular communication network when the first device receives the second data; 9. The communication system according to claim 8.

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