Signal control system, signal control method and program

Abstract

[Problem] To achieve a reduction in accidents involving pedestrians and vehicles and make road traffic flow smoothly. [Solution] This signal control system comprises: a data acquisition means for acquiring determination data for determining whether or not to switch a control mode of a traffic light at an intersection to pedestrian / vehicle separation-type signal control; and a signal control means for switching the control mode of the traffic light at the intersection to the pedestrian / vehicle separation-type signal control for a predetermined period, when it is determined whether or not the current situation satisfies a predetermined switching condition on the basis of the determination data.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a signal control system, a signal control method, and a recording medium. [Background technology]

[0002] As a measure to reduce pedestrian-vehicle accidents, pedestrian-vehicle separated signal control (including scramble signals that allow pedestrians to cross intersections diagonally), which can separate the flow of pedestrians and vehicles over time, is attracting attention. However, pedestrian-vehicle separated signal control has the side effect of worsening traffic congestion, as it impedes the movement of vehicles for a certain period during the signal control cycle.

[0003] On the other hand, there are cases where pedestrian-vehicle separated signal control can make traffic flow more smoothly at some intersections. For example, at intersections where there is a lot of pedestrian traffic at the crosswalk and vehicles turning right or left are forced to stop when the green light is on because of pedestrians crossing, pedestrian-vehicle separated signal control is considered to be more advantageous.

[0004] Patent Document 1 discloses a moving person monitoring device that can more efficiently control traffic signals for vehicles and pedestrians by checking the status and number of pedestrians at road intersections. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 11-275562 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] The moving person monitoring device in Patent Document 1 controls pedestrian and vehicle traffic lights based on the number of pedestrians waiting to cross near a pedestrian traffic light (hereinafter referred to as "pedestrians waiting at a traffic light") and the waiting time. Therefore, when there are many pedestrians waiting at a traffic light, they may obstruct vehicles' right and left turns, causing congestion.

[0007] On the other hand, while pedestrian-vehicle separated signal control has the potential to reduce accidents between vehicles and pedestrians, the time that vehicles can pass is reduced by the time it takes pedestrians to cross, so there is a demand to reduce the time that pedestrian-vehicle separated signal control is in operation.

[0008] An object of the present invention is to provide a signal control system, a signal control method, and a recording medium that can contribute to both reducing pedestrian-vehicle accidents and facilitating smooth road traffic. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] According to a first aspect, there is provided a signal control system comprising: a data acquisition means for acquiring judgment data for determining whether or not to switch the control mode of a traffic signal at an intersection to pedestrian-vehicle separated signal control; and a signal control means for switching the control mode of the traffic signal at the intersection to pedestrian-vehicle separated signal control for a predetermined period of time when it is determined whether or not the judgment data satisfies a predetermined switching condition.

[0010] According to a second aspect, there is provided a signal control system comprising: an operation schedule acquisition means for acquiring the operation schedule of passenger vehicles at stations or stops near an intersection; a creation means for creating a signal control schedule based on the operation schedule to switch the control mode of traffic signals at the intersection to pedestrian-vehicle separated signal control for a predetermined period of time; and a signal control means for switching the control mode of traffic signals at the intersection based on the signal control schedule.

[0011] According to a third aspect, there is provided a signal control method which acquires judgment data for determining whether or not to switch the control mode of a traffic signal at an intersection to pedestrian-vehicle separated signal control, judges whether or not the judgment data satisfies predetermined switching conditions, and if it is determined that the judgment data satisfies the predetermined switching conditions, switches the control mode of the traffic signal at the intersection to pedestrian-vehicle separated signal control for a predetermined period of time.

[0012] According to a fourth aspect, there is provided a signal control method that acquires the operation schedule of passenger vehicles at stations or stops near an intersection, creates a signal control schedule based on the operation schedule for switching the control mode of traffic signals at the intersection to pedestrian-vehicle separated signal control for a predetermined period of time, and switches the control mode of traffic signals at the intersection based on the signal control schedule.

[0013] According to a fifth aspect, there is provided a computer-readable recording medium that stores a program that causes a computer to execute the following processes: a process of acquiring judgment data for determining whether or not to switch the control mode of a traffic signal at an intersection to pedestrian-vehicle separated signal control; a process of determining whether or not the judgment data satisfies predetermined switching conditions; and a process of switching the control mode of the traffic signal at the intersection to pedestrian-vehicle separated signal control for a predetermined period of time if it is determined that the judgment data satisfies the predetermined switching conditions.

[0014] According to a sixth aspect, there is provided a computer-readable recording medium that stores a program that causes a computer to execute the following processes: a process of acquiring the operation schedule of passenger vehicles at stations or stops near an intersection; a process of creating a signal control schedule that switches the control mode of traffic signals at the intersection to pedestrian-vehicle separated signal control for a predetermined period based on the operation schedule; and a process of switching the control mode of traffic signals at the intersection based on the signal control schedule. [Effects of the Invention]

[0015] According to the present invention, a signal control system, a signal control method, and a recording medium are provided that can contribute to both reducing pedestrian-vehicle accidents and facilitating smooth road traffic. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0016] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram showing a configuration of an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining the operation of one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] FIG. 10 is another diagram for explaining the operation of one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining basic data for calculating a first evaluation value used in one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] 3 is a flow diagram illustrating the operation of one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] 1 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a first exemplary embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] 3 is a diagram showing an example of switching condition information stored in a switching condition storage unit of the signal control system according to one embodiment of the present invention; FIG. [Figure 8] 5A to 5C are diagrams illustrating an example of changes in the display content of a display board in the signal control system according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] 3 is a flowchart showing the operation of the signal control system according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] 1 is an example of a traffic light cycle diagram switched by the traffic light control system according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a second exemplary embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12] 10 is an example of a signal control schedule created by the signal control system according to the second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13] 5 is a flowchart showing the operation of the signal control system according to the second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a third exemplary embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 15]FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a display format on an on-board terminal of a vehicle in a signal control system according to the third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing another example of a display format on an on-board terminal of a vehicle in the signal control system according to the third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 17] 10 is an example of a traffic light cycle diagram switched by a traffic light control system according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 18] FIG. 10 is a signal cycle diagram for explaining a fourth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 19] 10 is an example of a traffic light cycle diagram switched by a traffic light control system according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 20] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the configuration of a computer that constitutes the signal control system of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0017] First, an overview of one embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the reference numerals in this overview are used for convenience to identify each element as an example to facilitate understanding, and are not intended to limit the present invention to the illustrated form. Furthermore, connecting lines between blocks in the drawings and the like referred to in the following description include both bidirectional and unidirectional lines. Unidirectional arrows are used to schematically indicate the flow of main signals (data) and do not exclude bidirectionality. A program is executed via a computer device, which includes, for example, a processor, a storage device, an input device, a communication interface, and, if necessary, a display device. Furthermore, this computer device is configured to be able to communicate with internal or external devices (including computers) via the communication interface, whether wired or wireless. Furthermore, ports or interfaces are present at the input / output connection points of each block in the drawings, but are not shown.

[0018] In one embodiment, the present invention can be realized in a signal control system 10 including a data acquisition means 11 and a signal control means 12, as shown in FIG.

[0019] More specifically, the data acquisition means 11 acquires determination data for determining whether to switch the control mode of the traffic signal at the intersection to pedestrian-vehicle separated signal control. This determination data can be position information of an autonomous vehicle or passenger vehicle (train, bus, tram, etc.) approaching the intersection. This determination data can also be position notification from the autonomous vehicle or passenger vehicle, or data sent from a sensor that detects the entry of the autonomous vehicle or passenger vehicle. This determination data can also be an image captured by a camera capable of capturing images of vehicles approaching the intersection.

[0020] Then, based on the determination data, the signal control means 12 determines whether the current situation satisfies a predetermined switching condition. If it is determined that the predetermined switching condition is met as a result of the determination, the signal control means 12 switches the control mode of the traffic signal 20 at the intersection to pedestrian-vehicle separated signal control for a predetermined period. The switching condition can be that the autonomous vehicle or passenger vehicle is approaching the intersection.

[0021] For example, as shown in Figure 2, when an autonomous vehicle V1 (or a passenger vehicle) is approaching an intersection, signal control system 10 switches the control mode of traffic signals 20 at the intersection to pedestrian-vehicle separated signal control for a predetermined period of time. By doing so, the flow lines of pedestrians and vehicles are separated in time when autonomous vehicle V1 (or a passenger vehicle) passes through the intersection, making it possible to reduce pedestrian-vehicle accidents.

[0022] As a mechanism for the signal control system 10 to detect the approach of an autonomous vehicle V1 (or a passenger vehicle) to an intersection, as shown in FIG. 3, a method can be adopted in which an autonomous vehicle V1 (or a passenger vehicle) is identified (detected) by a sensor S1 installed near the road and notified to the signal control system 10. The autonomous vehicle V1 (or a passenger vehicle) may transmit its location information to the vehicle location management center 30 shown in FIG. 3. In this case, the signal control system 10 can acquire the location information of the autonomous vehicle V1 (or a passenger vehicle) from the vehicle location management center 30. Furthermore, if an image captured by a camera is used as the determination data, the vehicle can be recognized as an object from the image and the approach of the autonomous vehicle V1 (or a passenger vehicle) to the intersection can be detected. In addition, to make it easier to identify the autonomous vehicle V1, it is also preferable to attach a special mark to the autonomous vehicle indicating that it is an autonomous vehicle.

[0023] The signal control system 10 described above operates as shown in Fig. 4. First, the signal control system 10 acquires determination data for determining whether or not to switch the control mode of the traffic signal at the intersection to pedestrian-vehicle separated signal control (step S001). Next, the signal control system 10 determines whether or not the current situation satisfies a predetermined switching condition based on the determination data (step S002). If it determines that the predetermined switching condition is met (Yes in step S002), the signal control system 10 switches the control mode of the traffic signal at the intersection to pedestrian-vehicle separated signal control for a predetermined period of time (step S003). Note that if it determines in step S002 that the determination data does not satisfy the predetermined switching condition, the signal control system 10 maintains the previous signal control mode (No in step S002).

[0024] This makes it possible to temporally separate the flow of pedestrians and vehicles when an autonomous vehicle V1 (or passenger vehicle) passes through an intersection, thereby reducing pedestrian-vehicle accidents. This is because the system employs a configuration that switches the traffic signal control mode to pedestrian-vehicle separated signal control when an autonomous vehicle V1 (or passenger vehicle) approaches. Furthermore, when an autonomous vehicle V1 (or passenger vehicle) is not nearby, signal control system 10 controls the traffic signal in a control mode other than pedestrian-vehicle separated signal control, thereby achieving smoother road traffic.

[0025] Note that embodiments of the present invention are not limited to the above examples, and various types of information can be used as determination data. For example, a configuration can be adopted in which time information is used as determination data and the approach of an autonomously driven vehicle V1 (or a passenger vehicle) is determined by referring to the operation schedule of the autonomously driven vehicle V1 (or a passenger vehicle).

[0026] In another embodiment, as shown in Fig. 5, the signal control system 10a may include a second data acquisition means 13 that acquires operation schedules from an external device. This external device may be a timetable server for various transportation services or a timetable server that provides timetables for various companies in response to a user request.

[0027] Even with a configuration using such a timetable, the flow lines of pedestrians and vehicles can be separated in time when an autonomous vehicle V1 (or passenger vehicle) passes through an intersection, reducing pedestrian-vehicle accidents. This is because the system employs a configuration that switches the control mode of the traffic signal to pedestrian-vehicle separated signal control when an autonomous vehicle V1 (or passenger vehicle) approaches. Furthermore, when an autonomous vehicle V1 (or passenger vehicle) is not nearby, the signal control system 10a controls the traffic signal in a control mode other than pedestrian-vehicle separated signal control, thereby achieving smoother road traffic.

[0028] [First embodiment] Next, a first embodiment in which a signal control system controls a sign attached to a traffic signal at an intersection will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Fig. 6 is a diagram showing the configuration of the first embodiment of the present invention. Referring to Fig. 6, the configuration includes an intersection where a vehicular traffic signal S1, a pedestrian traffic signal S2, and a sign D are installed, a signal control system 100 that controls them, and a camera 140 that photographs the intersection.

[0029] One or more cameras 140 are installed at suitable positions to capture images of vehicles approaching the intersection shown in FIG.

[0030] The signal control system 100 includes data acquisition means 101, determination means 102, switching condition storage means 103, signal control means 104, and display board control means 105. The signal control system 100 may be a device that functions as a signal control device or MEC (Multi-access Edge Computing) server located at one or more intersections. The signal control system 100 may also be a device located in a traffic control system that controls traffic lights and signal control devices at multiple intersections.

[0031] The data acquisition means 101 detects a specific vehicle approaching the intersection from the image of the camera 140 and sends the detected vehicle to the determination means 102. The mechanism by which the data acquisition means 101 detects a specific vehicle can be an object recognition technology using AI (Artificial Intelligence) or the like.

[0032] The determination means 102 determines whether or not to switch the control mode of the vehicle traffic light S1 and the pedestrian traffic light S2 at the intersection to pedestrian-vehicle separated signal control, by referring to the switching conditions stored in the switching condition storage means 103. If it is determined that the control mode should be switched to pedestrian-vehicle separated signal control, the determination means 102 instructs the signal control means 104 to switch to pedestrian-vehicle separated signal control.

[0033] FIG. 7 shows an example of switching conditions stored in the switching condition storage means 103. The pedestrian-vehicle separation switching condition field contains conditions for initiating pedestrian-vehicle separation signal control, such as the approach of an autonomous vehicle or an approach of a bus. The implementation details field defines implementation details for each pedestrian-vehicle separation switching condition, such as "continue pedestrian-vehicle separation signal control for three cycles" or "continue pedestrian-vehicle separation signal control for two cycles." For example, if the data acquisition means 101 detects the approach of an autonomous vehicle, "continue pedestrian-vehicle separation signal control for three cycles" is selected. Note that the description format of the switching conditions is not limited to the format shown in FIG. 7. For example, if a system is adopted in which an autonomous vehicle is identified by license plate information, the license plate information of the autonomous vehicle is set as the switching condition. Furthermore, instead of the condition of an autonomous vehicle approaching, a description using the position, such as the autonomous vehicle reaching position A, can also be used. Furthermore, if the implementation period for pedestrian-vehicle separation signal control is predetermined, the implementation details field can be omitted. For example, if it is decided that pedestrian-vehicle separated signal control will be performed for one cycle, only the switching condition needs to be defined in the switching condition storage means 103 .

[0034] The signal control means 104 controls the vehicle traffic light S1 and the pedestrian traffic light S2 at the intersection in accordance with instructions from the determination means 102. Furthermore, before changing the control modes of the vehicle traffic light S1 and the pedestrian traffic light S2, the signal control means 104 instructs the display board control means 105 on the content to be displayed on the display board D. In this embodiment, the determination means 102 and the signal control means 104 are independent, but they may also be integrated to function as a single signal control means.

[0035] The display board control means 105 switches the display content of the display board D in accordance with the content of the instruction from the signal control means 104.

[0036] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of changes in the display content of the display board D by the display board control means 105. For example, the display board control means 105 may display on the display board D the signal control method currently being used by the traffic lights at the intersection. When all traffic lights at the intersection are operating in a pedestrian-vehicle separation mode, the display board control means 105 displays "pedestrian-vehicle separation" D1 on the display board D. On the other hand, when all traffic lights at the intersection are operating in a mode other than the pedestrian-vehicle separation mode, the display board control means 105 displays a driver's attention message, such as "Watch out for pedestrians jumping out" D2, on the display board D. Note that the display board D may be an electronic display board using an LED (light emitting diode) or a roll-type (mechanical) display board. Furthermore, when all traffic lights at the intersection are operating in a mode other than the pedestrian-vehicle separation mode, the display board may display the intersection name, be silent, or be turned off, in addition to displaying "Watch out for pedestrians jumping out." Of course, the corresponding signal control method, such as "time-dependent signal" or "sensitive signal," may also be displayed.

[0037] In addition to displaying the currently implemented traffic light control system, the display board control means 105 may also display the remaining time until the traffic light changes under the currently implemented traffic light control system using a counter or graphics on the display board. This remaining time display can take the form of, for example, a countdown counter display showing the remaining time until the traffic light changes, or a counter display showing the elapsed time along with the split value, showing the remaining time until the traffic light changes. Instead of displaying the remaining time numerically, a gauge display showing the time until the next traffic light change can also be used. This allows the driver of vehicle V to recognize that the traffic light at the intersection they are about to pass is a pedestrian-vehicle separation traffic light and the time until the next traffic light change.

[0038] As described above, by displaying the control mode applied to the traffic lights at an intersection, vehicle drivers and pedestrians can predict the behavior of the traffic lights at that intersection, making it possible to prevent unnecessary accidents such as people running out into the street.

[0039] Next, the operation of this embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Fig. 9 is a flow chart showing the operation of the signal control system of the first embodiment of the present invention. Referring to Fig. 9, first, the signal control system 100 acquires an image from the camera 140 as determination data (step S101).

[0040] Next, the signal control system 100 analyzes the determination data to determine whether or not a change to pedestrian-vehicle separated signal control is necessary (step S102). If it is determined that a change to pedestrian-vehicle separated signal control is not necessary (No in step S102), the signal control system 100 maintains the current control mode.

[0041] On the other hand, when it is determined that the signal control should be changed to the pedestrian-vehicle separated signal control (Yes in step S102), the signal control system 100 first changes the display content of the display board D (step S103).

[0042] Thereafter, the signal control system 100 performs signal control based on pedestrian-vehicle separated signal control for a predetermined period of time (step S104).

[0043] As a result, the signal cycle of the traffic light at the intersection changes from the content shown in the upper part of Figure 10 (two-aspect system) to the content shown in the lower part of Figure 10. Note that the aspect of pedestrian signal S2 is omitted in Figure 10. As a result, at the intersection, there is a period during one cycle when all of the display information of pedestrian signal S2 is green. In the example of Figure 10, the signal cycle changes to one that inserts a 25-second period with the green light on and a 5-second period with the green light flashing. As mentioned above, by setting the approach of autonomous vehicles or buses as a switching condition, it is possible to reduce pedestrian-vehicle accidents that occur when these vehicles pass through the intersection. Furthermore, when these vehicles are not passing, the traffic light is controlled in a control mode other than pedestrian-vehicle separated signal control, thereby achieving smoother road traffic.

[0044] In the above-described embodiment, the approach of an autonomous vehicle and a bus is exemplified as a switching condition, but the switching condition is not limited to this. For example, the signal control system 100 may acquire an image of the vicinity of the intersection from the camera 140 as determination data, and implement pedestrian-vehicle separated signal control for a predetermined period based on the number of pedestrians and attributes of the pedestrians shown in the image. Specifically, a switching condition may be employed in which pedestrian-vehicle separated signal control is implemented for a predetermined period when a vulnerable road user, such as a child or elderly person, approaches the intersection. Another switching condition may be set such that pedestrian-vehicle separated signal control is implemented only when a predetermined number of pedestrians who may cross the intersection are approaching, and pedestrian-vehicle separated signal control is implemented only when necessary.

[0045] [Second embodiment] Next, a second embodiment in which a signal control system creates a signal control schedule based on a vehicle operation schedule will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing the configuration of the second embodiment of the present invention. The difference from the configuration of the first embodiment shown in FIG. 6 is that the signal control system 100a creates a signal control schedule based on operation status data instead of detecting approaching vehicles. This configuration makes it possible to implement the present invention even at intersections where no cameras are installed.

[0046] Specifically, the signal control system 100 a includes an operation schedule acquisition means 201 , a creation means 106 , a signal control means 204 , a display board control means 105 , and a signal control schedule storage means 107 .

[0047] The operation schedule database (operation schedule DB) 400 is a database that can provide train and bus operation schedules. Such a database can be a database that can provide operation schedule information using a predetermined API (Application Programming Interface). Furthermore, a timetable server or the like that is publicly available on the Internet or a cloud platform can also be used as the operation schedule DB 400. In Japan, "operation schedule" is also called "railway diagram" or "railway diagram."

[0048] The operation schedule acquisition means 201 acquires the operation schedule of passenger cars for stations or stops near the operation schedule intersection from the operation schedule DB 400 and sends it to the creation means 106.

[0049] The creation means 106 creates a signal control schedule that switches the control mode of the traffic signal at the intersection to pedestrian-vehicle separated signal control for a predetermined period based on the operation schedule. Figure 12 is an example of a signal control schedule created by the creation means 106. 8:35 and 9:10 in the morning in Figure 12 indicate the times when passenger vehicles on the operation schedule arrive at stations or bus stops near the intersection. In this case, the creation means 106 creates a signal control schedule that implements pedestrian-vehicle separated signal control for a predetermined period after the passenger vehicles arrive, as shown in the lower part of Figure 12. The creation means 106 stores the created operation schedule in the signal control schedule storage means 107.

[0050] The signal control means 204 controls the vehicle traffic light S1 and the pedestrian traffic light S2 at the intersection in accordance with the signal control schedule stored in the signal control schedule storage means 107. Furthermore, before changing the signal control method, the signal control means 204 instructs the display board control means 105 on the content to be displayed on the display board D.

[0051] Next, the operation of this embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Fig. 13 is a flow chart showing the operation of the signal control system 100a of the second embodiment of the present invention. First, the signal control system 100a acquires the operation schedule of passenger cars at stations or stops near an intersection (step S201). Next, the signal control system 10 creates a signal control schedule for implementing pedestrian-vehicle separated signal control at the intersection based on the operation schedule (step S202).

[0052] Next, the signal control system 100a applies the created signal control schedule and starts controlling the vehicular traffic signal S1, the pedestrian traffic signal S2, and the sign board D (step S203).

[0053] According to the second embodiment, which operates as described above, it is possible to implement pedestrian-vehicle separated signal control at appropriate times even at intersections where cameras are not installed or where installing cameras is structurally difficult. This embodiment can also be implemented at intersections where cameras are installed. In this case, the signal control system 100a can perform modifications such as creating a signal control schedule based on the traffic schedule, detecting delays of passenger cars based on images from the camera 140, and correcting the signal control schedule.

[0054] [Third embodiment] Next, a third embodiment in which a notification function for vehicles approaching an intersection is added to a signal control system will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Fig. 14 is a diagram showing the configuration of the third embodiment of the present invention. The difference from the configuration of the first embodiment shown in Fig. 6 is that a signal control mode notification means 108 is added to a signal control system 100b, and a signal control means 304 controls the signal control mode notification means 108. Since the other configurations are the same as those of the first embodiment, the following description will focus on the differences.

[0055] The signal control means 304 controls the vehicle traffic light S1 and the pedestrian traffic light S2 at the intersection in accordance with instructions from the determination means 102. The signal control means 304 also instructs the signal control mode notification means 108 to notify vehicles approaching the intersection of the signal control mode, etc., currently being implemented by the traffic lights at the intersection.

[0056] The signal control mode notification means 108 notifies vehicles approaching the intersection of the signal control mode currently in effect at the traffic lights at the intersection in accordance with instructions from the signal control means 304. The signal control mode notification means 108 can notify vehicles approaching the intersection of the signal control mode, etc., by broadcasting via a roadside device or a mobile communication network. In a more preferred embodiment, the signal control mode notification means 108 can include in the notification information about the target intersection (traffic light), the location range of the receiving vehicle, and vehicle identification information (ID) read by a roadside sensor. This allows the receiving vehicle to refer to its own location or identification information to determine whether the information notified from the signal control system 100b is intended for its own vehicle.

[0057] FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of a display format on an on-board terminal of a vehicle by the signal control system 100b of this embodiment. In the example of FIG. 15, the traffic light on the display screen D3 of the on-board terminal of vehicle V is displayed with the message "pedestrian-vehicle separation signal." In other words, the waiting time until the next phase according to the current signal control method is displayed. This allows the driver of vehicle V to recognize that the traffic light at the intersection through which vehicle V is about to pass is a traffic light that operates under the pedestrian-vehicle separation method. This makes it possible to prevent vehicle V from prematurely setting off after the red light has turned off.

[0058] Fig. 16 is a diagram showing another example of a display format on the vehicle-mounted terminal of a vehicle by the signal control system 100b of this embodiment. In the example of Fig. 16, the traffic light on the display screen D3 of the vehicle-mounted terminal of vehicle V displays a message that the traffic light is operating in the "pedestrian-vehicle separation" mode and the remaining time until the light changes. This allows the driver of vehicle V to recognize that the traffic light at the intersection they are passing is a pedestrian-vehicle separation mode and the time until the light changes color next. This makes it possible to prevent vehicle V from prematurely setting off after the red light has turned off.

[0059] The display format of the in-vehicle terminal can be modified in various ways, and can be a display device installed in the vehicle or a head-up display projected onto the windshield. In addition to displaying on various display devices, notification of whether the road is in a "pedestrian-vehicle separated" mode, the time until the traffic light changes, etc. can also be given by voice.

[0060] As described above, according to this embodiment, in addition to the display on the display board D, information regarding the signal control mode can also be displayed on the vehicle's onboard terminal to alert the driver. The examples shown in Figures 15 and 16 are merely illustrative of this embodiment. For example, instead of the text display "The light will turn green in 20 seconds" as shown in Figure 16, the time until the signal changes can be displayed using a counter or graphic. For example, a countdown counter display can be used to display the remaining time until the signal changes under the current signal control system, or a counter display showing the elapsed time along with the split value can be used to display the remaining time until the signal changes under the current signal control system. Furthermore, instead of displaying the remaining time or the like numerically, a gauge can be used to indicate the time until the next signal change.

[0061] In addition, in this embodiment, the signal control system 100b is described as notifying the vehicle-mounted terminal of the vehicle of information related to the signal control mode, but the signal control system 100b may also provide similar information to pedestrians, which can prevent pedestrians from mistakenly starting to cross the crosswalk.

[0062] [Fourth embodiment] Next, a fourth embodiment in which the so-called full red time during the signal cycle before and after switching is extended will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. The fourth embodiment can be realized in the same configuration as the first to third embodiments, so the following description will focus on the differences in operation.

[0063] FIG. 17 is an example of a signal cycle diagram switched by the signal control system of this embodiment, showing the signal cycle diagrams before and after the change from the two-aspect system to the pedestrian-vehicle separated system. The difference from the signal cycle diagram of the first embodiment shown in FIG. 10 is that the initial full red time immediately after the change from the two-aspect system to the pedestrian-vehicle separated system is extended by a second. Normally, in the case of two-aspect control, when the traffic light on Road A changes from green to yellow to red, the traffic light on Road B also turns green (see the upper part of FIG. 17). However, when the system is changed to the pedestrian-vehicle separated system, after the traffic light on Road A changes from green to yellow to red, all pedestrian traffic lights S2 turn green (see the lower part of FIG. 17). At that time, if a driver of a vehicle on Road B mistakes the change for a two-aspect system and fails to stop or starts moving, an accident with a pedestrian may occur.

[0064] Therefore, in this embodiment, as described above, the initial full red time immediately after switching from the two-aspect system to the pedestrian-vehicle separated system is extended by a second. This makes it possible to prompt the driver of the vehicle on road B to stop, and reduces the possibility of collisions with pedestrians.

[0065] The same thing can happen when switching from a pedestrian-vehicle separated system to a two-phase system. Figure 18 is an example of a signal cycle diagram when switching from a pedestrian-vehicle separated system to a two-phase system. In this case, too, after the traffic light on Road A changes from green to yellow to red, the time when pedestrian traffic light S2 is all green is skipped, and the traffic light on Road B changes to green. If a pedestrian at that time mistakes the crosswalk for a pedestrian-vehicle separated system and starts crossing the crosswalk, they will end up crossing with vehicles.

[0066] Therefore, in this embodiment, the initial all-red period immediately after switching from the pedestrian-vehicle separated system to the two-aspect system is extended by a predetermined time, a seconds, as shown in Fig. 19. This makes it possible to encourage pedestrians to wait on the sidewalk, thereby reducing the possibility of pedestrians and vehicles crossing paths.

[0067] In the above example, the first full red time immediately after switching from the two-aspect system to the pedestrian-vehicle split system and the first full red time immediately after switching from the pedestrian-vehicle split system to the two-aspect system are extended, but the extension of the full red time does not have to be limited to one time. If necessary, the signal control system 100 may repeat the above-mentioned extension of the full red time for multiple cycles.

[0068] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and further modifications, substitutions, and adjustments can be made without departing from the basic technical concept of the present invention. For example, the network configurations, element configurations, and data representation formats shown in the drawings are examples intended to aid in understanding the present invention, and the present invention is not limited to the configurations shown in these drawings.

[0069] For example, in the first to fourth embodiments described above, the signal control systems 100 to 100b are described as controlling traffic signals, but the signal control systems 100 to 100b may also be configured to only create a signal control schedule. In this case, the signal control systems 100 to 100b may provide the signal control schedule to other signal control devices, and the other signal control devices may control traffic signals.

[0070] Furthermore, in the above-described first to fourth embodiments, the signal control systems 100 to 100b are described as switching the signal control mode of one intersection, but a configuration in which the signal control systems 100 to 100b switch the signal control modes of multiple intersections can also be adopted.

[0071] In addition, in the first to fourth embodiments described above, the present invention is described as being based on the assumption that vehicles are driven on the left side of the road, but it can also be applied to countries where the traffic laws require vehicles to be driven on the right side of the road. In this case, the left and right in the above-described embodiments are reversed.

[0072] (About hardware configuration) In each embodiment of the present disclosure, each component of each device represents a functional block. Some or all of the components of each device are realized by any combination of an information processing device 900 and a program, for example, as shown in Fig. 20. Fig. 20 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the information processing device 900 that realizes each component of each device. The information processing device 900 includes, as an example, the following configuration. ·CPU(Central Processing Unit)901 ROM (Read Only Memory) 902 ·RAM(Random Access Memory)903 Program 904 loaded into RAM 903 A storage device 905 for storing a program 904 A drive device 907 for reading and writing data from and to the recording medium 906 A communication interface 908 for connecting to a communication network 909 Input / output interface 910 for inputting and outputting data Bus 911 connecting each component

[0073] Each component of each device in each embodiment is realized by the CPU 901 acquiring and executing a program 904 that realizes the function. That is, the CPU 901 in FIG. 20 executes a data acquisition program and a signal schedule creation program, and performs an update process for each calculation parameter stored in the RAM 903, the storage device 905, etc. The program 904 that realizes the function of each component of each device is stored in the storage device 905 or the ROM 902 in advance, for example, and is read out by the CPU 901 as needed. The program 904 may be supplied to the CPU 901 via the communication network 909, or may be stored in advance on the recording medium 906, and the drive device 907 may read out the program and supply it to the CPU 901.

[0074] Furthermore, this program 904 can display the processing results, including intermediate states, at each stage as necessary on a display device, or can communicate with the outside via a communication interface. Furthermore, this program 904 can be recorded on a computer-readable (non-transitive) recording medium.

[0075] There are various variations in the method of realizing each device. For example, each device may be realized by any combination of a separate information processing device 900 and a program for each component. Furthermore, multiple components included in each device may be realized by any combination of a single information processing device 900 and a program. That is, each unit (processing means, function) of the signal control system shown in the first to fourth embodiments can be realized by a computer program that causes a processor installed in the device to execute each of the above-mentioned processes using its hardware.

[0076] In addition, some or all of the components of each device may be realized by other general-purpose or dedicated circuits, processors, etc., or a combination of these. These may be configured by a single chip, or by multiple chips connected via a bus.

[0077] Some or all of the components of each device may be realized by a combination of the above-mentioned circuits and programs.

[0078] When some or all of the components of each device are realized by multiple information processing devices, circuits, etc., the multiple information processing devices, circuits, etc. may be centrally or decentralized. For example, the information processing devices, circuits, etc. may be realized as a client-server system, a cloud computing system, or the like, in a form in which each device is connected via a communication network.

[0079] It should be noted that the above-described embodiments are preferred embodiments of the present disclosure, and the scope of the present disclosure is not limited to only the above-described embodiments. In other words, those skilled in the art can modify or substitute the above-described embodiments to construct various modified forms without departing from the gist of the present disclosure.

[0080] A part or all of the above-described embodiments can be described as, but not limited to, the following supplementary notes.

[0081] [Appendix 1] a data acquisition means for acquiring determination data for determining whether or not to switch the control mode of a traffic signal at an intersection to pedestrian-vehicle separated signal control; a signal control means for switching the control mode of the traffic signal at the intersection to pedestrian-vehicle separated signal control for a predetermined period when it is determined that the current situation satisfies a predetermined switching condition based on the determination data; A signal control system comprising: [Appendix 2] The determination data acquired by the signal control system is data indicating the position of an autonomously driven vehicle or a passenger vehicle, The signal control means may be configured to switch the control mode of the traffic signal at the intersection to pedestrian-vehicle separated signal control for a predetermined period of time when the autonomous vehicle or passenger vehicle approaches the intersection. [Appendix 3] The judgment data acquired by the above-mentioned signal control system can be configured as either a position notification from the self-driving vehicle or the passenger vehicle or data sent from a sensor that detects the entry of the self-driving vehicle or the passenger vehicle. [Appendix 4] The determination data acquired by the signal control system is an image of the vicinity of the intersection, The signal control means may be configured to switch the control mode of the traffic signal at the intersection to pedestrian-vehicle separated signal control for a predetermined period of time based on the number or attributes of pedestrians shown in the image. [Appendix 5] In the above-mentioned signal control system, Further, a second data acquisition means is provided for acquiring a passenger train operation schedule for a station or stop near the intersection, The signal control means may be configured to switch the control mode of the traffic signal at the intersection to pedestrian-vehicle separated signal control for a predetermined period of time based on the time information acquired as the judgment data and the passenger vehicle operation schedule information. [Appendix 6] an operation schedule acquisition means for acquiring an operation schedule of passenger cars at a station or stop near the intersection; a signal control schedule generation means for generating a signal control schedule for switching the control mode of a traffic signal at an intersection to pedestrian-vehicle separated signal control for a predetermined period based on the operation schedule; a signal control means for switching a control mode of a traffic signal at the intersection based on the signal control schedule; A signal control system comprising: [Appendix 7] The above-mentioned signal control system Furthermore, a configuration can be adopted in which there is provided a means for changing the content of the display on a display board that displays the signal control mode currently being implemented at the traffic light at the intersection in accordance with the change in signal control. [Appendix 8] The signal control system described above can be configured to display on the display panel a counter or a graphic indicating the waiting time until the next signal indication according to the currently implemented signal control mode. [Appendix 9] The above-mentioned signal control system Furthermore, the present invention may be configured to include a means for notifying vehicles near the intersection of the signal control mode currently being implemented by the traffic lights at the intersection. [Appendix 10] The above-mentioned signal control system A counter or a graphic indicating the waiting time until the next signal phase according to the currently implemented signal control mode may be displayed on the vehicle. [Appendix 11] The above-mentioned signal control system A configuration can be adopted in which, after switching from a signal control other than the pedestrian-vehicle separated signal control to the pedestrian-vehicle separated signal control, a signal control is implemented in which the all-red time in one cycle is extended for a predetermined time. [Appendix 12] acquires determination data for determining whether to switch the control mode of a traffic signal at an intersection to pedestrian-vehicle separated signal control; determining whether the determination data satisfies a predetermined switching condition; If it is determined that the determination data satisfies a predetermined switching condition, the control mode of the traffic signal at the intersection is switched to pedestrian-vehicle separated signal control for a predetermined period of time. Signal control method. [Appendix 13] Obtaining the passenger train schedule for the station or stop near the intersection, creating a signal control schedule for switching the control mode of the traffic signal at the intersection to pedestrian-vehicle separated signal control for a predetermined period based on the operation schedule; switching a control mode of a traffic signal at the intersection based on the signal control schedule; Signal control method. [Appendix 14] A process of acquiring determination data for determining whether or not to switch the control mode of a traffic signal at an intersection to pedestrian-vehicle separated signal control; a process of determining whether the determination data satisfies a predetermined switching condition; a process of switching the control mode of the traffic signal at the intersection to pedestrian-vehicle separated signal control for a predetermined period when it is determined that the determination data satisfies a predetermined switching condition; A computer-readable recording medium that stores a program that causes a computer to execute the above. [Appendix 15] A process of obtaining a passenger train schedule for a station or stop near the intersection; A process of creating a signal control schedule for switching the control mode of the traffic signal at the intersection to pedestrian-vehicle separated signal control for a predetermined period based on the operation schedule; A process of switching a control mode of a traffic signal at an intersection based on the signal control schedule; A computer-readable recording medium that stores a program that causes a computer to execute the above. Note that, like Supplementary Note 1, the embodiments of Supplementary Note 12 to Supplementary Note 15 can be developed into the embodiments of Supplementary Note 2 to Supplementary Note 11.

[0082] The disclosures of the above-cited patent documents are incorporated herein by reference and may be used as the basis or part of the present invention, as necessary. Modifications and adjustments of the embodiments and examples are possible within the scope of the entire disclosure of the present invention (including the claims), and further based on its basic technical concept. Furthermore, various combinations and selections (including partial deletions) of the various disclosed elements (including each element of each claim, each element of each embodiment or example, each element of each drawing, etc.) are possible within the scope of the disclosure of the present invention. In other words, the present invention naturally embraces various modifications and alterations that would be possible by a person skilled in the art in accordance with the entire disclosure and technical concept, including the claims. In particular, with regard to the numerical ranges set forth herein, any numerical value or subrange within that range should be construed as specifically set forth, even if not otherwise specified. Furthermore, the disclosures of the above-cited documents, when used in part or in whole in combination with the disclosures herein as part of the disclosure of the present invention, in accordance with the spirit of the present invention, are also deemed to be included in the disclosures of this application. [Explanation of symbols]

[0083] 10, 10a, 100, 100a, 100b Signal Control System 11, 101 Data acquisition method 12 Signal control means 13 Second data acquisition means 20 Traffic lights 201 Operation schedule acquisition method 102 Judgment means 103 Switching condition storage means 104, 204, 304 Signal control means 105 Display board control means 106 Creation Method 107 Signal control schedule storage means 108 Signal control mode notification means 140 Camera 400 Train Schedule Database (Train Schedule DB) 900 Information Processing Equipment 901 CPU(Central Processing Unit) 902 ROM (Read Only Memory) 903 RAM (Random Access Memory) 904 Program 905 Storage device 906 Recording Media 907 Drive unit 908 Communication Interface 909 Communication Network 910 Input / Output Interface 911 Bus S1 Vehicle Signal S2 Pedestrian traffic light D, D1, D2 display board

Claims

1. a data acquisition means for acquiring determination data for determining whether or not to switch the control mode of a traffic signal at an intersection to pedestrian-vehicle separated signal control; a signal control means for switching the control mode of the traffic signal at the intersection to pedestrian-vehicle separated signal control for a predetermined period when it is determined that the current situation satisfies a predetermined switching condition based on the determination data; A signal control system comprising:

2. the determination data is data indicating the position of an autonomously driven vehicle or a passenger vehicle, 2. The signal control system of claim 1, wherein the signal control means switches the control mode of the traffic signal at the intersection to pedestrian-vehicle separated signal control for a predetermined period of time when the autonomous vehicle or passenger vehicle approaches the intersection.

3. 3. The signal control system according to claim 2, wherein the determination data is either a position notification from the self-driving vehicle or the passenger vehicle or data sent from a sensor that detects the entry of the self-driving vehicle or the passenger vehicle.

4. the determination data is an image of the vicinity of the intersection, 4. The signal control system of claim 1, wherein the signal control means switches the control mode of the traffic signal at the intersection to pedestrian-vehicle separated signal control for a predetermined period of time based on the number or attributes of pedestrians captured in the image.

5. Further, a second data acquisition means is provided for acquiring a passenger train operation schedule for a station or stop near the intersection, 5. A signal control system according to claim 1, wherein the signal control means switches the control mode of the traffic signal at the intersection to pedestrian-vehicle separated signal control for a predetermined period of time based on the time information acquired as the judgment data and the passenger vehicle operation schedule information.

6. an operation schedule acquisition means for acquiring an operation schedule of passenger cars at a station or stop near the intersection; a signal control schedule generation means for generating a signal control schedule for switching the control mode of a traffic signal at an intersection to pedestrian-vehicle separated signal control for a predetermined period based on the operation schedule; a signal control means for switching a control mode of a traffic signal at the intersection based on the signal control schedule; A signal control system comprising:

7. A computer comprising: acquires determination data for determining whether to switch the control mode of a traffic signal at an intersection to pedestrian-vehicle separated signal control; determining whether or not the current situation satisfies a predetermined switching condition based on the determination data; If it is determined that the determination data satisfies a predetermined switching condition, the control mode of the traffic signal at the intersection is switched to pedestrian-vehicle separated signal control for a predetermined period of time. Signal control method.

8. A computer comprising: Obtaining the passenger train schedule for the station or stop near the intersection, creating a signal control schedule for switching the control mode of the traffic signal at the intersection to pedestrian-vehicle separated signal control for a predetermined period based on the operation schedule; switching a control mode of a traffic signal at the intersection based on the signal control schedule; Signal control method.

9. A process of acquiring determination data for determining whether or not to switch the control mode of a traffic signal at an intersection to pedestrian-vehicle separated signal control; a process of determining whether or not a current situation satisfies a predetermined switching condition based on the determination data; a process of switching the control mode of the traffic signal at the intersection to pedestrian-vehicle separated signal control for a predetermined period when it is determined that the determination data satisfies a predetermined switching condition; A program that causes a computer to execute the following.

10. A process of obtaining a passenger train schedule for a station or stop near the intersection; A process of creating a signal control schedule for switching the control mode of a traffic signal at an intersection to pedestrian-vehicle separated signal control for a predetermined period based on the operation schedule; A process of switching a control mode of a traffic signal at the intersection based on the signal control schedule; A program that causes a computer to execute the following.

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