Information processing device, information processing system, and information processing method
By utilizing wireless access point identifiers, the system addresses the challenge of inaccurate GPS-based location determination, providing enhanced convenience through precise service delivery to vehicle occupants.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- JP2021153629
- Authority / Receiving Office
- JP · JP
- Patent Type
- Patents
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2021-09-21
- Publication Date
- 2025-08-15
- Estimated Expiration
- 2041-09-21
AI Technical Summary
Existing systems struggle to provide accurate vehicle services due to the difficulty in determining the vehicle's location when using GPS signals, especially in environments like parking lots or underground structures.
The system uses wireless access point identifiers, such as SSIDs, to provide services by detecting and identifying specific access points, allowing for more precise service delivery based on the vehicle's location within the access point's service area.
This approach enhances user convenience by enabling timely and accurate provision of services, such as information about commercial facilities or control of home devices, simply by entering the access point's service area.
Smart Images

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Abstract
Description
[Technical Field]
[0001] The present invention relates to wireless communications. [Background technology]
[0002] There are systems that provide information to satisfy user needs. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a system that acquires a list of services and goods desired by a user and guides the user on actions necessary to satisfy the user's needs. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]
[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2004-272361 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]
[0004] The present disclosure aims to improve convenience for vehicle users. [Means for solving the problem]
[0005] One aspect of an embodiment of the present disclosure is an information processing device having a control unit that provides a service corresponding to an identifier of a specified wireless access point to an occupant of the vehicle when the vehicle is within the service area of the wireless access point.
[0006] One aspect of an embodiment of the present disclosure is an information processing system including a first device mounted on a vehicle and communicating with a specified wireless access point, and a second device that provides a service corresponding to an identifier of the wireless access point to an occupant of the vehicle when the first device is within the service area of the specified wireless access point.
[0007] One aspect of an embodiment of the present disclosure is an information processing method including a first step of receiving a wireless access point detection result from a vehicle, and a second step of providing a service corresponding to an identifier of the wireless access point detected by the vehicle to an occupant of the vehicle.
[0008] Another aspect of the present disclosure is a program for causing a computer to execute the above-described information processing method, or a computer-readable storage medium that non-temporarily stores the program. [Effects of the Invention]
[0009] According to the present disclosure, convenience for vehicle users can be improved. [Brief explanation of the drawings]
[0010] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram of a vehicle system according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating components of the vehicle according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating functional modules included in a control unit 101. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a system overview diagram of the server device. [Figure 5] 10 shows an example of service data stored in a server device. [Figure 6] FIG. 4 is a flowchart of a service providing process according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] An example of a service request sent from the DCM. [Figure 8] 10 is a flowchart of the process executed in step S14. [Figure 9A] 10 is an example of a screen provided on an in-vehicle device. [Figure 9B] 10 is an example of a screen provided on an in-vehicle device. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a flowchart of a service providing process according to a modified example. [Figure 11] 10 shows an example of service data according to the second embodiment. [Figure 12]FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an area where a service is provided. [Figure 13] 10 is a flowchart of a process executed in step S13 in the second embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0011] In recent years, automobiles with network connectivity have become widespread. By providing network connectivity, in-vehicle devices can provide services such as driver support in emergencies and security services. Such devices are also called data communication modules (DCMs).
[0012] Also, attempts are being made to provide appropriate services depending on the vehicle's location. For example, a DCM transmits vehicle location information to a server device, which can then provide services according to the location. For example, when a vehicle arrives at a commercial facility, it will be possible to notify the driver of parking congestion information, or when a vehicle arrives at a restaurant, it will be possible to provide a menu book.Also, when a vehicle arrives at a home, it will be possible to turn on the indoor lights and air conditioning, or disable the security system.
[0013] However, when providing services using only location information, there is a problem that accurate determination cannot be made depending on the environment. For example, if the parking lot is indoors or underground, it becomes difficult to accurately determine the vehicle's location. The information processing device according to the present disclosure solves such a problem.
[0014] An information processing device according to one aspect of the present disclosure is characterized in that it has a control unit that provides a service corresponding to an identifier of a specified wireless access point to an occupant of the vehicle when the vehicle is within the service area of the wireless access point.
[0015] A vehicle according to the present disclosure performs wireless communication via a predetermined wireless access point using a wireless communication standard such as IEEE802.11. The information processing device is configured to be able to provide a service corresponding to the identifier of the wireless access point detected by the vehicle. The service may provide information to the vehicle occupant or control certain devices related to the vehicle occupant. For example, if the identifier corresponds to a certain commercial facility, information related to the commercial facility's parking lot, stores, etc. may be provided. If the identifier corresponds to a certain restaurant, access to the restaurant's menu and ordering page may be provided. If the identifier corresponds to a home, devices connected to the home network may be controlled.
[0016] The information processing device may be an on-board device mounted on a vehicle, or a server device capable of communicating with the vehicle. In the latter case, the information processing device may receive a detected identifier from the device mounted on the vehicle and execute a corresponding service. Alternatively, the information processing device may receive a detected identifier from the device mounted on the vehicle and instruct the device to execute a corresponding service. "Providing a service" includes instructing an external device to execute a service.
[0017] An information processing device according to another aspect of the present disclosure includes a first device mounted on a vehicle and configured to communicate with a predetermined wireless access point, and when the first device is within the service area of the predetermined wireless access point, the first device transmits a service signal corresponding to an identifier of the wireless access point. and a second device for providing the vehicle occupant with the information.
[0018] The first device may be, for example, a wireless communication device mounted on a vehicle. The second device may be an in-vehicle terminal mounted on the vehicle or a server device capable of communicating with the first device. The second device provides a predetermined service to an occupant of the vehicle based on the result of communication with the first device.
[0019] Specific embodiments of the present disclosure will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Unless otherwise specified, the hardware configuration, module configuration, functional configuration, etc. described in each embodiment are not intended to limit the technical scope of the disclosure to those configurations alone.
[0020] (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.
[0021] 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 and an in-vehicle device 200. will be done.
[0022] The DCM 100 is a device that performs wireless communication with an external network. The DCM 100 functions as a gateway for connecting components (hereinafter referred to as vehicle components) of the vehicle 10 to the external network. For example, the DCM 100 provides access to the external network to the in-vehicle device 200 of the vehicle 10. This allows the in-vehicle device 200 to communicate with a server device connected to the network via the DCM 100.
[0023] The DCM 100 is configured to be able to communicate via a cellular communication network and a local network. The cellular communication network is a communication network that uses a cellular network. The DCM 100 stores information about a cellular communication contract, and when it detects an available cellular communication network, it attaches to the cellular communication network. A local network is a network in which a connection is provided at a predetermined wireless access point, such as a home network or a public wireless LAN network. For example, when a home network established at home is used as the local network, the vehicle 10 can communicate within a predetermined range centered on the home. The DCM 100 stores information about multiple wireless access points, and when it detects an available access point, it connects to that access point.
[0024] The in-vehicle device 200 is a device that provides information to 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 vehicle occupants. The in-vehicle device 200 may download traffic information, road map data, music, moving images, and the like via the DCM 100.
[0025] The server device 20 is a device that provides predetermined services to the occupants of the vehicle 10 based on the results of communication with the DCM 100. The predetermined services may be services that provide information or services that control predetermined devices. For example, when the server device 20 determines that the vehicle 10 has arrived at a predetermined commercial facility based on the result of communication with the DCM 100, the server device 20 provides information about the commercial facility to the occupant of the vehicle 10. In addition, when the server device 20 determines that the vehicle 10 has arrived at the owner's home, the server device 20 provides information about the commercial facility to the occupant of the vehicle 10. When it is determined that the device has reached the destination, it sends a command to the home network to disable security, thereby providing convenience to the user.
[0026] Previously, such services could be provided based on the location information of the vehicle 10. However, in systems that use signals from GPS satellites, it can be difficult to obtain accurate location information. Therefore, in the vehicle system according to this embodiment, the DCM 100 transmits information about currently detected access points to the server device 20, and the server device 20 determines the services to be provided to the vehicle 10 based on the information. For example, if the vehicle 10 detects an access point for a public wireless LAN provided in a specific commercial facility, the server device 20 can respond by providing information about the commercial facility to the occupant of the vehicle 10.
[0027] 2 is a diagram illustrating components of the vehicle 10 according to this embodiment. The vehicle 10 according to this embodiment includes a DCM 100 and an in-vehicle device 200.
[0028] The DCM 100 includes 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.
[0029] The first communication module 110 is a communication module that communicates with the outside world via 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.).
[0030] 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 adopt include Wi-Fi (registered trademark), DSRC (Dedicated Short Range Communications), and millimeter wave communication. Like the first communication module, the second communication module 120 is configured to include an antenna element that inputs and outputs wireless signals. Note that the antenna may be configured to include multiple physical antennas. For example, when communication is performed using radio waves in a high frequency band such as microwaves or millimeter waves, multiple antennas may be distributed to stabilize communication. In this embodiment, the second communication module 120 performs communication using Wi-Fi.
[0031] 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 .
[0032] 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.
[0033] The control unit 101 performs the function of connecting the DCM 100 to an external network via either a cellular network or a local network. The control unit 101 also performs 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 performs a function of relaying data transmitted from the vehicle component to the external network. The control unit 101 also receives data transmitted from the external network and relays the data to an appropriate vehicle component. The function to transfer the data to the component is performed.
[0034] 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 security system monitoring function and a call function, and can make security calls, emergency calls, etc. based on a trigger that occurs inside the vehicle.
[0035] 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, various functions that meet predetermined purposes, as will be described later, can be realized.
[0036] 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 are connected to each other via a bus of the in-vehicle network. An example of a standard for the in-vehicle network is CAN (Controller Area Network). If the network uses multiple standards, the communication unit 103 may have multiple interface devices that are compatible with the standards of the communication destination. An example of a communication standard other than CAN is Ethernet (registered trademark).
[0037] The DCM 100 may be configured to operate independently of other components of the vehicle 10. For example, the DCM 100 may have a built-in auxiliary battery, allowing it to operate independently without relying on an external power source. With this configuration, even if other components of the vehicle 10 malfunction (for example, due to a power supply failure) caused by a traffic accident or the like, it will be possible to make an emergency call or the like.
[0038] Next, we will explain the functions executed by the control unit 101. Fig. 3 is a schematic diagram explaining the functional modules possessed by the control unit 101. The functional modules possessed by the control unit 101 can be realized by the control unit 101 executing a program stored in a storage means such as a ROM.
[0039] The control unit 101 is configured to have the following functional modules: a wireless connection control unit 1011 , a data relay unit 1012 , an emergency notification unit 1013 , a security management unit 1014 , an update unit 1015 , and a service request unit 1016 .
[0040] The wireless connection control unit 1011 controls wireless connections using the first communication module 110 and the second communication module 120. The wireless connection control unit 1011 manages information necessary for wireless connections, and connects to a cellular communication network and a local network via the first communication module 110 and the second communication module 120 when the networks are available. When both the cellular communication network and the local network are available, the wireless connection control unit 1011 gives priority to communication over the local network.
[0041] The data relay unit 1012 relays data transmitted and received between vehicle components. For example, it receives a message sent by a first device connected to the in-vehicle network and, if necessary, transfers the message to a second device connected to the in-vehicle network. The first and second devices may be in-vehicle electronic control units (ECUs) or other vehicle components. Furthermore, when a message addressed to an external network is received from a vehicle component, the data relay unit 1012 relays the message to the external network. Furthermore, the data relay unit 1012 receives data transmitted from the external network and relays the data to an appropriate vehicle component. Transfer the call to the account.
[0042] When an abnormality occurs in the vehicle 10, the emergency notification unit 1013 makes an emergency notification to an operator outside the vehicle. Examples of the abnormality include a traffic accident or a vehicle breakdown. When a predetermined trigger occurs, such as pressing a call button provided in the vehicle or deploying an airbag, the emergency notification unit 1013 starts a connection with an operator and enables a call between the vehicle occupant and the operator. When making an emergency notification, the emergency notification unit 1013 may transmit vehicle location information to the operator. In this case, the emergency notification unit 1013 may acquire the location information from the GPS module 140.
[0043] The security management unit 1014 performs security monitoring processing. For example, based on data received from an ECU that manages the vehicle's electronic lock, the security management unit 1014 detects that the vehicle has been unlocked without following the correct procedure and sends a security notification to a predetermined device. The security notification may include vehicle location information. In this case, the security management unit 1014 may acquire the location information from the GPS module 140. When the security management unit 1014 determines that a problem has occurred with the security of the vehicle, it may acquire the location information and periodically transmit the acquired location information to a pre-designated server device.
[0044] The update unit 1015 updates software used by its own device (DCM 100) or an electronic control unit (ECU) of the vehicle 10. For example, the update unit 1015 manages the versions of firmware stored in a plurality of ECUs, and when new firmware is provided by a server device, it downloads it via a network and executes a process of applying it to the target device.
[0045] The service request unit 1016 transmits a request for a service (hereinafter, referred to as a service request) to the server device 20, causing the server device 20 to provide the service. In this embodiment, the service request includes an identifier of an access point currently detected by the device itself, specifically, an SSID (Service Set Identifier) of a wireless LAN. The server device 20 stores the association between the SSID and the service, and provides the service in response to the received service request. The specific method will be described later.
[0046] Although the specific functions provided by the DCM 100 have been described above as an emergency call function, a security function, a software update function, and a service request function, the DCM 100 may have other functions as well. For example, the DCM 100 may have a driving diagnosis function, a driver status monitoring function, an energy management function, and the like.
[0047] Next, the in-vehicle device 200 will be described. The in-vehicle device 200 is a device that provides information to the occupants 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 occupants 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 links with a smartphone or the like.
[0048] 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 (for example, an emergency call), the in-vehicle device 200 inputs and outputs information related to the process (for example, displaying the call status of an operator).
[0049] The in-vehicle device 200 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. The auxiliary storage device stores an operating system (OS), various programs, various tables, etc., and by executing the programs stored therein, various functions that match predetermined purposes, as described below, can be realized. However, some or all of the functions may be realized by hardware circuits such as an ASIC or an FPGA.
[0050] The in-vehicle device 200 includes a control unit 201 , a storage unit 202 , a communication unit 203 , and an input / output unit 204 .
[0051] The control unit 201 is a means for controlling the in-vehicle device 200. The control unit 201 includes, for example, an information processing unit such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit). It is composed of a number of management units.
[0052] 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 the information via the input / output unit 204.
[0053] The storage unit 202 is a means for storing information, and is configured with storage media such as 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.
[0054] The communication unit 203 is a communication interface that connects the in-vehicle device 200 to a bus of an in-vehicle network.
[0055] 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 combined into one touch panel display. The input / output unit 204 may also have a speaker or the like for outputting audio.
[0056] The network bus 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.
[0057] 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. The server device 20 is a device that provides a predetermined service in response to a service request transmitted from the DCM 100. The predetermined service may be an information providing service or a service for controlling predetermined devices. If the target service is an information provision service, the server device 20 transmits the generated or acquired information to the in-vehicle device 200 via the DCM 100. This makes it possible to convey information about stores, traffic, etc. to the user. Also, if the target service is a device control service, the server device 20 generates commands for devices and transmits them via the network.
[0058] The server device 20 is a computer having a processor such as a CPU or GPU, a main memory such as a RAM or ROM, and an auxiliary memory such as an EPROM, a disk drive, or a removable medium. It can be configured as a computer.
[0059] 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 a service execution unit 211 as a functional module. The functional module may be realized by executing a stored program by a CPU.
[0060] The service execution unit 211 executes a predetermined process for providing a service in response to a service request received from the DCM 100. The server device 20 stores data (service data) that associates the SSID of a wireless LAN with details of the service, and the service execution unit 211 executes the predetermined process by referring to the service data.
[0061] In this embodiment, the service execution unit 211 is configured to be able to provide the following three types of services. (Type 1) Device control service This is a service that issues control commands to pre-registered devices, such as lighting equipment and air conditioning equipment, connected to a home network. (Type 2) Web-based information service This is a service that issues a command to a predetermined device (such as the in-vehicle device 200) to display a corresponding web page, and provides information via a browser. (Type 3) Application-based information provision service This is a service that issues a command to a predetermined device (such as the in-vehicle device 200) to execute corresponding application software, and provides information via the application software.
[0062] 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 the 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 the data used by the control programs are stored. Furthermore, the storage unit 22 stores service data 22A.
[0063] 5 shows an example of service data in this embodiment. The service data includes fields for the SSID of the access point, the name of the access point, the service type, the conditions for providing the service, and the service ID. The SSID is a character string that identifies an access point. The SSID may be stored in its entirety in this field, or only a part of the SSID character string may be stored.
[0064] The service type is a field in which the type of service is stored. In this embodiment, the three types of service are defined as described above. The provision conditions are fields in which conditions for providing a service are stored. For example, a condition such as "provide a service only when the ignition of the vehicle 10 is off (IG-OFF)" can be stored in this field.
[0065] The service ID is a field in which data for identifying a service is stored. When the service type is "information provision," data for identifying the information to be provided is stored in the service ID. Examples of such data include the URL of a web page and information. The service ID may be an identifier for the application software that provides the information. If the service type is "device control," the service ID stores data for specifying the control content. Examples of such data include data specifying the target device, operation content, operation sequence, etc.
[0066] For example, if information is provided via a web page, the URL of the web page can be written in the service ID. Also, if information is provided via application software, the identifier of the application software to be launched can be written in the service ID. In the example shown, if the SSID "XXX_Airport_Public_Wifi" is detected, It is defined that the airport homepage will be displayed. Also, when the SSID "XXX_Station_Public_Wifi" is detected, the application software provided by the railway company will be displayed. It is defined that the software will be started and operation information will be displayed. It is defined that when an SSID called "XXX_Home" is detected, a routine called "Service1" is executed for the device group defined by "XXX_Home."
[0067] 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.
[0068] Next, a description will be given of a process in which the server device 20 provides a service based on the SSID detected by the vehicle 10. Fig. 6 is a flow chart showing an outline of this process.
[0069] First, in step S11A, the DCM 100 receives the SSID broadcast by the access point, and then the DCM 100 (service request unit 1016) generates a service request including the received SSID (step S11B). A service request is generated when the DCM 100 is within the service area of an access point. In other words, even if the DCM 100 detects an access point, if the signal is too weak for sufficient communication, a service request is not generated. Whether the DCM 100 is within the service area of an access point may be determined based on the field strength.
[0070] 7 shows an example of a service request. In this embodiment, the service request includes an identifier of the vehicle 10, the detected SSID, location information of the vehicle 10 (e.g., latitude and longitude), and data related to the status of the vehicle 10 (vehicle information). The vehicle information may be data indicating, for example, the state of the driving system, whether the ignition is on, the operating state of the engine, whether the vehicle is running, etc. The generated service request is transmitted to the server device 20 (step S11C). If the DCM 100 detects multiple SSIDs, it may transmit the SSID corresponding to the access point with the strongest field strength, or it may transmit multiple SSIDs. When transmitting multiple SSIDs, each SSID may be associated with a field strength.
[0071] In step S12, server device 20 (service execution unit 211) refers to service data 22A and determines whether there is a service corresponding to the SSID included in the service request. If there is a corresponding service, the process proceeds to step S13. If there is no corresponding service, the process ends.
[0072] The comparison of SSIDs may be performed based on a perfect match or a partial match. When the comparison is performed based on a partial match, only a part of the SSID character string may be stored in the service data. For example, if the string "XXX_Railway" is defined in the service data, it will be hit by multiple SSIDs such as "XXX_Railway_A_Station" and "XXX_Railway_B_Station". It can also be done.
[0073] In step S13, the server device 20 (service execution unit 211) determines whether the conditions for providing the service are met. If the service data includes the conditions for providing the service, the service execution unit 211 determines whether to provide the service, for example, by referring to the vehicle status included in the service request. For example, consider a case where the provision condition field of the service data defines that "the service is provided only when the vehicle ignition is off." In this case, if the ignition status of the vehicle 10 is "off," the service execution unit 211 determines to provide the service. If the conditions for providing the service are met, the process proceeds to step S14, whereas if the conditions for providing the service are not met, the process ends.
[0074] In step S14, the server device 20 (service execution unit 211) generates a service execution instruction. The process executed in step S14 will now be described in detail with reference to FIG.
[0075] In step S141, it is determined whether the service type is "information provision." If the service type is "information provision," the service execution unit 211 determines the type of information provision in step S142. If the type of information provision is "information provision via the web," a service execution instruction including the address of the web page that is the information source is generated (step S144). In this case, the service execution instruction is sent to a device that executes a browser (typically, the in-vehicle device 200). The in-vehicle device 200 provides the information by opening the specified web page (step S15).
[0076] If the type of information provision is "information provision by application software," a service execution instruction including an identifier that identifies the application software for providing the information is generated (step S145). In this case, the service execution instruction is transmitted to a device that executes the application software (typically, the in-vehicle device 200). The in-vehicle device 200 provides the information by executing the specified application software (step S15).
[0077] If the service type is "device control," the process proceeds from step S141 to S143, and the service execution unit 211 generates a service execution instruction including a command for controlling the target device. In this case, the service execution instruction is processed by the device itself, and the command is sent to an external device for controlling the device (step S15).
[0078] Before providing the service in step S15, the in-vehicle device 200 may ask the user for confirmation. FIG. 9A is an example of a screen for confirming whether or not a service is available. If multiple services are associated with the same SSID, the user may be prompted to select which service to provide. FIG. 9B is an example of a screen for prompting the user to select one of multiple services. In this example, two services, "Show menu" and "Show store information," are presented as options.
[0079] Furthermore, if the DCM 100 detects multiple SSIDs and multiple SSIDs are included in the service request, the processes in steps S12 to S15 may be performed individually for each SSID. In this case, priorities are assigned to the SSIDs, and the service is provided according to the priorities. The priority may be determined based on the signal strength. For example, the processing may be performed for the top three access points with the strongest signals. Alternatively, the user may be allowed to select which service to provide.
[0080] Furthermore, when step S15 is executed by the in-vehicle device 200, the condition for providing the service may be that the DCM 100 is currently connected to the target access point, because, for example, information about a commercial facility (such as information about congestion in a parking lot) may be provided only on the local network provided by the commercial facility.
[0081] As described above, according to the first embodiment, a predetermined service can be provided to the occupant of the vehicle 10 in accordance with the identifier of the access point detected by the vehicle 10. This allows the occupant of the vehicle 10 to receive the service (or be offered the service) simply by entering the service area, thereby improving convenience. For example, when a user arrives at a fast food restaurant, they can quickly access application software or a web page for mobile ordering. Also, when a user arrives at home, they can disable home security and turn on the lights and air conditioning. Also, when a user arrives at work, they can clock in and out.
[0082] (Modification of the first embodiment) In the first embodiment, the server device 20 identifies a service based on the SSID received from the vehicle 10 (DCM 100), but this process may be performed by the DCM 100. For this reason, the service data may be stored in the DCM 100.
[0083] 10 is a flow diagram of this modified example. Steps S12A, 13A, and 14A correspond to steps S12, 13, and 14 in the first embodiment, respectively. In this modified example, DCM 100 determines whether a service can be executed and generates a service execution instruction. If the service type is "information provision," the service execution instruction is transmitted to in-vehicle device 200. If the service type is "device control," the service execution instruction is transmitted to server device 20. Other operations are the same as those in the first embodiment.
[0084] In this modification, the service data is stored in the storage unit 102 of the DCM 100. Note that the server device 20 may distribute the service data to a plurality of vehicles, and the DCM 100 may receive and store (or update) this data.
[0085] (Second embodiment) In the first embodiment, the content of the service is determined based only on the SSID. However, there are cases where accurate services cannot be provided to users based only on the SSID. For example, if a common SSID is used by multiple group stores, it may not be possible to provide services appropriate to the location. In order to address this, the second embodiment provides services by also using location information.
[0086] FIG. 11 shows the service data 22A stored in the server device 20 in the second embodiment. The service data in the second embodiment differs from that in the first embodiment in that it further includes a field for storing area information. The area information is used to define the area in which the service is provided.
[0087] FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating the area where the service is provided. The area defined by the service data is the area where the service is provided (hereinafter referred to as the service area). As shown in the figure, the service area and the Wi-Fi service area partially overlap. In the second embodiment, the service is provided when the DCM 100 is located within the overlapping area. The area information included in the service data may be in any format as long as it can define the service area. For example, it may be location information of an access point, or information that directly defines the service area. When location information of an access point is stored, a predetermined range based on the location of the access point becomes the service area.
[0088] 13 is a flowchart of the process executed in step S13 in the second embodiment. The process shown in the figure is executed by the server device 20 (service execution unit 211). First, in step S131, it is determined whether the conditions for providing the service are met. The method of determination is the same as that described in step S13 of the first embodiment. If the conditions for providing the service are not met, the process ends. If the conditions for providing the service are met, the process proceeds to step S132.
[0089] In step S132, it is determined whether or not position matching is necessary. Here, if area information is defined for each service in the service data, it is determined that location matching is necessary. In the example of FIG. 11, if the detected SSID is "XXX_Airport_Public_Wifi", area A1 and area A2 are defined, so location matching is necessary. If the detected SSID is "XXX_HOME_Wifi", Since area information is not defined, it is determined that location matching is not necessary. If location matching is necessary, the process proceeds to step S133. If location matching is not necessary, it is determined that the service conditions are met, and the process ends.
[0090] In step S133, the location information of the vehicle 10 is acquired. The location information is included in the service request transmitted from the vehicle 10. In step S134, it is determined whether the vehicle is located within an area defined by the service data. For example, if the service data defines "area A1" and "area A2," it is determined whether the location of the vehicle 10 is included in either area A1 or area A2. If the vehicle is located within the range defined by the service data, it is determined that the service conditions are met. Otherwise, it is determined that the service conditions are not met.
[0091] The processing from step S14 onwards is the same as in the first embodiment. If multiple areas are defined for the same SSID, the service associated with the corresponding area is executed in steps S14 and S15. For example, in the example of Fig. 11, if the vehicle 10 is in area A1, the service "Open the homepage of airport terminal 1" is executed, and if the vehicle 10 is in area A2, the service "Open the homepage of airport terminal 2" is executed.
[0092] As described above, in the second embodiment, whether or not to provide a service is determined by also using location information, which makes it possible to more accurately determine the service to be provided.
[0093] (Variation) The above-described embodiment is merely an example, and the present disclosure can be implemented by appropriately modifying it within the scope that does not deviate from the gist thereof. For example, the processes and means described in this disclosure can be freely combined and implemented as long as no technical contradiction occurs.
[0094] In the description of the embodiment, an example in which information is provided by the in-vehicle device 200 has been given, but information may also be provided using another information terminal in the vehicle. For example, the DCM 100 or the server device 20 may communicate with a mobile terminal (such as a smartphone) carried by an occupant and provide information via the mobile terminal. In this case, the DCM 100 or the server device 20 may issue a service execution instruction to the mobile terminal.
[0095] 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 a single device. In a computer system, the hardware configuration (server configuration) by which each function is realized can be flexibly changed.
[0096] The present disclosure can also be realized by providing a computer program implementing the functions described in the above embodiments to a computer, and having one or more processors in the computer read and execute the program. Such a computer program may be provided to the computer via a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium connectable to the computer's system bus or via a network. Non-transitory computer-readable storage media include, for example, any type of disk, such as a magnetic disk (e.g., a floppy disk, a hard disk drive (HDD), etc.), an optical disk (e.g., a CD-ROM, a DVD disk, a Blu-ray disk), a read-only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), an EPROM, an EEPROM, a magnetic card, a flash memory, an optical card, or any type of medium suitable for storing electronic instructions. [Explanation of symbols]
[0097] 10. Vehicle 20. Server device 100 DCM 200...In-vehicle equipment 101, 201, 21... Control unit 102,202,22...Storage section 103,203,23···Communications Department 204...Input / output section 110 First communication module 120 Second communication module 130 GPS antenna 140···GPS module
Claims
1. An information processing device having a storage unit and a control unit connected to the storage unit, the storage unit stores service data that associates an identifier of a predetermined wireless access point, a service content including a content for controlling a predetermined device, and a condition for providing the service, which condition includes providing the service when the ignition of the vehicle is off; The control unit When the vehicle is within the service area of the predetermined wireless access point, the identifier is acquired; In response to acquiring the identifier, referencing the stored service data and the ignition state of the vehicle; providing the service corresponding to the acquired identifier to an occupant of the vehicle based on the vehicle ignition being off; the predetermined device is connected to a home network provided in the occupant's home and includes a first device including at least one of a lighting device and an air conditioning device; providing the service to the occupant of the vehicle includes transmitting, by the control unit, a control command for controlling the first device to an external device that controls the first device; Information processing device.
2. The service further includes an information providing service; The service data is a combination of the identifier and data for identifying the information to be provided. The information processing device according to claim 1 .
3. The control unit further acquires position information of the vehicle, providing the service corresponding to the identifier when the location information indicates a predetermined range corresponding to the identifier; 3. The information processing device according to claim 1.
4. The storage unit further stores a relationship between the identifier and the predetermined range. The information processing device according to claim 3 .
5. the storage unit stores the identifier in association with location information of the wireless access point having the identifier; the predetermined range is set based on the position of the wireless access point having the identifier. The information processing device according to claim 3 .
6. The control unit acquires, from the vehicle, an identifier of a wireless access point detected by the vehicle. The information processing device according to claim 1 .
7. The identifier is an SSID (Service Set Identifier), The information processing device according to claim 1 .
8. a first device mounted on a vehicle and configured to communicate with a predetermined wireless access point; a second device having a storage unit and a control unit connected to the storage unit; An information processing system comprising: the storage unit stores service data associating an identifier of the predetermined wireless access point, a service content including a content for controlling a predetermined device, and a condition for providing the service, which condition includes providing the service when the ignition of the vehicle is off; The control unit When the first device is within the service area of the predetermined wireless access point, the first device acquires the identifier; In response to acquiring the identifier, referencing the stored service data and the ignition state of the vehicle; providing the service corresponding to the acquired identifier to an occupant of the vehicle based on the vehicle ignition being off; the predetermined device is connected to a home network provided in the occupant's home and includes a first device including at least one of a lighting device and an air conditioning device; providing the service to the occupant of the vehicle includes transmitting, by the control unit, a control command for controlling the first device to an external device that controls the first device; Information processing system.
9. The service further includes an information providing service; The service data is a combination of the identifier and data for identifying the information to be provided. The information processing system according to claim 8 .
10. The first device transmits the vehicle position information to the second device; the second device provides the service corresponding to the identifier when the location information indicates a predetermined range corresponding to the identifier; 10. The information processing system according to claim 8 or 9.
11. The storage unit further stores a relationship between the identifier and the predetermined range. The information processing system according to claim 10.
12. the storage unit stores the identifier in association with location information of the wireless access point having the identifier; The predetermined range is set based on the position of the wireless access point having the identifier. will be The information processing system according to claim 10.
13. The identifier is an SSID (Service Set Identifier), 13. The information processing system according to claim 8.
14. a first step of storing service data associating an identifier of a wireless access point, a service content including a content for controlling a predetermined device, and a condition for providing the service, including providing the service when the ignition of the vehicle is off; a second step of receiving a detection result of the wireless access point from the vehicle; a third step of referring to the stored service data and an ignition state of the vehicle in response to the identifier detected by the vehicle; a fourth step of identifying the service corresponding to the detected identifier based on the vehicle ignition being off, and providing the identified service to an occupant of the vehicle; the predetermined device is connected to a home network provided in the occupant's home and includes a first device including at least one of a lighting device and an air conditioning device; providing the identified service to the occupant of the vehicle in the fourth step includes transmitting a control command for controlling the first device to an external device controlling the first device; Information processing methods.
15. a fifth step of acquiring location information of the vehicle; providing the service corresponding to the identifier when the location information indicates a predetermined range corresponding to the identifier; The information processing method according to claim 14.
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