Vehicle information processing device, vehicle information processing system, and vehicle information processing method

Abstract

To provide a vehicle information processing device, a vehicle information processing system, and a vehicle information processing method that can alleviate a user's reluctance to introduce settings to a vehicle.SOLUTION: A vehicle information processing device 40 includes: a reception unit 408 that receives a selection of a user of an introduction mode of a setting related to driving assistance of a vehicle; and a setting change unit 414 that applies the setting to the vehicle under a predetermined condition in accordance with the selection by the user, the selection being a selection that has been received by the reception unit 408, when the user selects an introduction mode for trial usage in which the setting is applied to the vehicle under the predetermined condition.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a vehicle information processing device, a vehicle information processing system, and a vehicle information processing method. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 below discloses an in-vehicle data update device that can autonomously resume an update of in-vehicle software or the like even if the update is left incomplete. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-097764 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, when introducing a setting to a vehicle, a user may hesitate to do so because they are unsure whether the setting is suitable for them. Also, there may be cases where a user does not want to use a function all the time, but wants to use it under certain conditions.

[0005] In consideration of the above, the present invention aims to provide a vehicle information processing device, a vehicle information processing system, and a vehicle information processing method that can reduce the user's resistance when introducing settings into a vehicle. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] First Aspect The vehicle information processing device according to the present invention includes: a reception unit that receives a user's selection of an implementation form of a setting related to driving assistance for the vehicle; and a setting change unit that, when the user selects an implementation form of trial use in which the setting is applied to the vehicle under predetermined conditions, applies the setting to the vehicle under the predetermined conditions in accordance with the user's selection received by the reception unit. The vehicle control system has a first acquisition unit that acquires information regarding either elapsed time or driving time, and a first judgment unit that judges whether a predetermined termination condition set in advance is satisfied based on the information acquired by the first acquisition unit, wherein the termination condition is either when a predetermined time has passed since the setting was introduced or when the vehicle has been driven for a predetermined time since the setting was introduced, and the setting change unit cancels application of the setting to the vehicle when the first judgment unit judges that the termination condition is satisfied.

[0007] According to the first aspect, when a user selects an introduction mode of settings related to driving assistance for a vehicle, the selection is accepted by the accepting unit. Here, if the user selects an introduction mode of trial use in which settings are applied to the vehicle under predetermined conditions, the setting change unit applies the settings to the vehicle under predetermined conditions according to the user's selection. In other words, the user can try out settings that interest them under predetermined conditions. Therefore, even a user who is hesitant to apply settings to the vehicle in the introduction of normal use without conditions can easily apply the settings to the vehicle. do.

[0008] According to the first aspect, when a predetermined termination condition is satisfied, the setting change unit cancels application of the setting to the vehicle, thereby automatically canceling application of the setting to the vehicle without the user having to perform any complicated operations. Furthermore, according to the first aspect, the first acquisition unit acquires information regarding either elapsed time or traveling time. Furthermore, based on the acquired information, the first determination unit determines whether a predetermined termination condition according to the user's selection is satisfied. Then, when the first determination unit determines that the termination condition is satisfied, that is, when a predetermined time has elapsed since the setting was introduced or when the vehicle has been traveling for a predetermined time since the setting was introduced, the setting change unit cancels application of the setting to the vehicle. Thus, the user can try out the setting of interest for only the predetermined time.

[0009] A vehicle information processing device according to a second aspect includes a reception unit that receives a user's selection regarding the mode of introduction of settings related to vehicle driving assistance; a setting change unit that, when the user selects a trial use introduction mode in which the settings are applied to the vehicle under predetermined conditions, applies the settings to the vehicle under the predetermined conditions in accordance with the user's selection received by the reception unit; a second acquisition unit that acquires information regarding either the vehicle's driving time period or the driver; and a second determination unit that determines whether predetermined usage conditions set in advance are satisfied based on the information acquired by the second acquisition unit, wherein the usage conditions are either when the vehicle is driving during a predetermined time period or when a predetermined driver is driving the vehicle, and the setting change unit does not apply the settings to the vehicle when the second determination unit determines that the usage conditions are not satisfied, and applies the settings to the vehicle when the second determination unit determines that the usage conditions are satisfied.

[0010] According to the second aspect, when a user selects an introduction mode of settings related to driving assistance for a vehicle, the selection is accepted by the accepting unit. Here, if the user selects an introduction mode for trial use in which the settings are applied to the vehicle under predetermined conditions, the setting change unit applies the settings to the vehicle under the predetermined conditions according to the user's selection. In other words, the user can try out settings that interest them under the predetermined conditions. Therefore, even a user who is hesitant to apply settings to the vehicle in a normal use introduction without conditions can easily apply the settings to the vehicle.

[0011] Furthermore, according to the second aspect, if the vehicle is not being used under the predetermined usage conditions that have been set in advance, the setting change unit does not apply the setting to the vehicle. On the other hand, if the vehicle is being used under the predetermined usage conditions, the setting change unit applies the setting to the vehicle. Thus, the user can experience and use the setting of interest only when using the vehicle under the predetermined usage conditions that the user has determined to be necessary and selected. Furthermore, according to a second aspect, the second acquisition unit acquires information on either the driving time period or the driver. Furthermore, based on the acquired information, the second determination unit determines whether or not a predetermined usage condition according to the user's selection is satisfied. Then, when the second determination unit determines that the usage condition is satisfied, that is, when the vehicle is driving during a predetermined time period or when a predetermined driver is driving the vehicle, the setting change unit applies the setting to the vehicle. Therefore, when the vehicle is driven during a predetermined time period or by a predetermined driver, the user can experience and use the setting of interest.

[0012] The third aspect is the first or second aspect, further comprising a third acquisition unit that acquires information regarding the amount of usage of at least one of the time the setting was used and the distance the vehicle traveled using the setting, and a fee billing unit that bills the user a fee according to the amount of usage based on the information regarding the amount of usage acquired by the third acquisition unit.

[0013] According to a third aspect, the third acquisition unit acquires information regarding at least one of the usage amounts of the time the setting was used and the distance the vehicle traveled using the setting. Furthermore, the fee billing unit bills the user according to the usage amount based on the acquired information regarding the usage amount. Thus, the user can try out the setting of interest by paying only the fee for the amount used.

[0014] In the fourth aspect, in the third aspect, when the fee according to the amount of usage exceeds the normal usage fee, the billing unit inquires the user as to whether or not he wishes to continue using the service, or bills the user for the normal usage fee.

[0015] According to the fourth aspect, when the fee according to the amount of use exceeds the normal usage fee, the user is asked whether he / she wishes to continue using the service or the normal usage fee is charged to the user, so that it is possible to prevent the fee according to the amount of use from exceeding the normal usage fee without the user realizing it, and it is possible to further reduce the user's resistance to introducing the setting into the vehicle.

[0016] A fifth aspect is the first or second aspect, further comprising an inquiry unit that inquires of the user as to whether or not the user wishes to continue using the setting, and the setting change unit cancels application of the setting to the vehicle if the user does not wish to continue using the setting in response to the inquiry by the inquiry unit, and maintains the setting in an available state if the user wishes to continue using the setting in response to the inquiry by the inquiry unit.

[0017] According to a fifth aspect, the query unit queries the user as to whether or not the user wishes to continue using the setting. If the user does not wish to continue using the setting in response to the query by the query unit, the setting change unit cancels application of the setting to the vehicle. On the other hand, if the user wishes to continue using the setting in response to the query by the query unit, the setting change unit maintains the setting in a usable state.

[0018] A vehicle information processing system according to a sixth aspect includes the vehicle information processing device according to any one of claims 6 of the first to fifth aspects, and an on-board device that controls the vehicle in accordance with the setting.

[0019] According to a sixth aspect, when a user selects an implementation form of settings related to driving assistance for a vehicle, the selection is accepted by a receiving unit of the vehicle information processing device. Here, if the user selects an implementation form of trial use in which the settings are applied to the vehicle under predetermined conditions, the setting change unit of the vehicle information processing device applies the settings to the vehicle under the predetermined conditions according to the user's selection. Then, the vehicle is controlled by the in-vehicle device according to the applied settings. In other words, the user can try out settings of interest under the predetermined conditions. Therefore, even a user who is hesitant to apply settings to the vehicle in a normal use implementation without conditions can easily apply the settings to the vehicle.

[0020] A seventh aspect of the vehicle information processing method accepts a user's selection of an implementation form for settings related to vehicle driving assistance, and if the user selects a trial use implementation form in which the settings are applied to the vehicle under specified conditions, applies the settings to the vehicle under the specified conditions in accordance with the user's selection, and also obtains information regarding either elapsed time or driving time, and determines whether a predetermined termination condition has been met based on the obtained information, where the termination condition is either when a predetermined time has passed since the settings were introduced or when the vehicle has been driven for a predetermined time since the settings were introduced, and if it is determined that the termination condition has been met, the computer executes a process to cancel the application of the settings to the vehicle.

[0021] According to the seventh aspect, when a user selects an implementation form of settings related to driving assistance for a vehicle, the selection is accepted. Here, if the user selects an implementation form for trial use in which the settings are applied to the vehicle under predetermined conditions, the settings are applied to the vehicle under predetermined conditions according to the user's selection. In other words, the user can try out settings that interest the user under predetermined conditions. Therefore, even a user who is hesitant to apply settings to the vehicle in a normal use implementation without conditions can easily apply the settings to the vehicle.

[0022] According to a seventh aspect, when a predetermined termination condition is satisfied, the application of the setting to the vehicle is cancelled, thereby automatically cancelling the application of the setting to the vehicle without the user having to perform any complicated operations. Furthermore, according to a seventh aspect, information on either elapsed time or driving time is acquired, and based on the acquired information, it is determined whether a predetermined termination condition according to the user's selection is satisfied. Then, if it is determined that the termination condition is satisfied, that is, if a predetermined time has passed since the setting was introduced or if the vehicle has been driven for a predetermined time since the setting was introduced, the application of the setting to the vehicle is canceled. Thus, the user can try out the setting of interest for only the predetermined time.

[0023] An information processing method for a vehicle according to an eighth aspect accepts a user's selection of an implementation form for settings related to vehicle driving assistance, and if the user selects an implementation form for trial use in which the settings are applied to the vehicle under specified conditions, applies the settings to the vehicle under the specified conditions in accordance with the user's selection, and also acquires information regarding either the vehicle's driving time period or the driver, and determines whether pre-set specified usage conditions are met based on the acquired information, where the usage conditions are either when the vehicle is driving during a specified time period or when a specified driver is driving the vehicle, and if it is determined that the usage conditions are not met, the computer does not apply the settings to the vehicle, and if it is determined that the usage conditions are met, the computer applies the settings to the vehicle.

[0024] According to an eighth aspect, when a user selects an implementation form of settings related to driving assistance for a vehicle, the selection is accepted. Here, if the user selects an implementation form for trial use in which the settings are applied to the vehicle under predetermined conditions, the settings are applied to the vehicle under predetermined conditions according to the user's selection. In other words, the user can try out settings that interest the user under predetermined conditions. Therefore, even a user who is hesitant to apply settings to the vehicle in a normal use implementation without conditions can easily apply the settings to the vehicle.

[0025] Furthermore, according to an eighth aspect, if the vehicle is not being used under the predetermined usage conditions, the settings are not applied to the vehicle. On the other hand, if the vehicle is being used under the predetermined usage conditions, the settings are applied to the vehicle. Thus, the user can experience and use the settings of interest only when using the vehicle under the predetermined usage conditions that the user has determined to be necessary and selected. Furthermore, according to an eighth aspect, information on either a driving time period or a driver is acquired. Furthermore, based on the acquired information, it is determined whether or not a predetermined usage condition according to the user's selection is satisfied. Then, if it is determined that the usage condition is satisfied, that is, if the vehicle is traveling during a predetermined time period or if a predetermined driver is driving the vehicle, the setting is applied to the vehicle. Thus, the user can experience and use the setting of interest during a predetermined time period or when a predetermined driver is driving the vehicle. [Effects of the Invention]

[0026] As explained above, First Aspect This can reduce user resistance when introducing settings into vehicles. At the same time, users can experience and use settings that interest them for a specific period of time. This has the excellent effect.

[0027] The second aspect can reduce the user's resistance to introducing settings into the vehicle, and also allows the user to experience and use settings of interest during a specific time period or when a specific driver is driving the vehicle. This has the excellent effect.

[0028] The third aspect is that users can try out settings that interest them by paying only for what they use. This has the excellent effect.

[0029] The fourth aspect can further reduce the user's resistance when introducing settings into the vehicle. This has the excellent effect.

[0030] The fifth aspect can further reduce the user's resistance when introducing settings into the vehicle. This has the excellent effect.

[0031] The sixth aspect can reduce the user's resistance when introducing settings into a vehicle. This has the excellent effect.

[0032] Seventh aspect teeth, This reduces the user's resistance to introducing settings into the vehicle, and allows the user to experience and use settings that interest them for a specific period of time. This has the excellent effect.

[0033] The eighth aspect can reduce the user's resistance to introducing settings into the vehicle, and also allows the user to experience and use settings of interest when driving the vehicle during a predetermined time period or when a predetermined driver is driving the vehicle. This has the excellent effect. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0035] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic configuration diagram of a vehicle information processing system according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 2] 2 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the user's vehicle shown in FIG. 1. FIG. [Figure 3] 2 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the vehicle-mounted device shown in FIG. 1. FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration of the server shown in FIG. [Figure 5] 2 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the server shown in FIG. 1. FIG. [Figure 6] 2 is a flowchart showing a processing flow in the vehicle information processing system shown in FIG. [Figure 7] 7 is a flowchart showing the flow of the conditional application process shown in FIG. 6. [Figure 8] 8 is a flowchart showing the flow of processing following A in FIG. 7. [Figure 9] 8 is a flowchart showing the flow of processing following B in FIG. 7. [Figure 10] 8 is a flowchart showing the flow of processing following C in FIG. 7. [Figure 11] 11 is a flowchart showing the flow of processing following D in FIGS. 8 to 10. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0036] Hereinafter, a vehicle information processing system 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0037] (Overall composition) As shown in FIG. 1, the vehicle information processing system 10 of this embodiment includes a user's vehicle 12, a user's terminal 30, and a server 40 as a vehicle information processing device owned by a predetermined business operator. The vehicle 12 is equipped with an in-vehicle device 20. Examples of the terminal 30 include a smartphone or personal computer owned by the user. The in-vehicle device 20, the terminal 30, and the server 40 are connected via a network N and are capable of communicating with each other. Note that although multiple vehicles 12 are connected to the network N, only one vehicle 12 is shown in FIG. 1 for ease of explanation.

[0038] (Hardware configuration of vehicle 12) 2, the vehicle 12 is configured to include an in-vehicle device 20, a plurality of ECUs (Electronic Control Units) 22, and a plurality of in-vehicle devices 24. The in-vehicle device 20 controls the vehicle 12 in accordance with a driving assistance program 110 changed by a server 40. Examples of driving assistance include, but are not limited to, a collision mitigation brake, lane departure warning, inter-vehicle distance control, skid prevention, sway warning, parking assistance, acceleration suppression when pedal is accidentally applied, and automatic headlight switching.

[0039] The vehicle-mounted device 20 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 20A, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 20B, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 20C, an in-vehicle communication I / F (Interface) 20D, and a wireless communication I / F 20E. The CPU 20A, the ROM 20B, the RAM 20C, the in-vehicle communication I / F 20D, and the wireless communication I / F 20E are interconnected via an internal bus 20F so as to be able to communicate with each other.

[0040] The CPU 20A is a central processing unit that executes various programs and controls each part. That is, the CPU 20A reads the programs from the ROM 20B and executes the programs using the RAM 20C as a work area. The CPU 20A controls each of the above components and performs various arithmetic processing in accordance with the programs recorded in the ROM 20B.

[0041] The ROM 20B stores various programs and data. The ROM 20B stores vehicle information 100 such as the vehicle model, model number, and model year, a driving assistance program 110 that controls the vehicle 12 to assist the occupant in driving, and a control program 120 that controls the in-vehicle device 20. In addition to the above-mentioned information such as the vehicle model that remains unchanged from the time of purchase, the vehicle information 100 includes, for example, information such as the driving time, driving distance, driving route, driving area, driver, and usage amount of settings of the vehicle 12 acquired from the ECU 22.

[0042] The RAM 20C temporarily stores programs or data as a working area.

[0043] The in-vehicle communication I / F 20D is an interface for connecting to each ECU 22. The in-vehicle communication I / F 20D uses a communication standard based on the CAN protocol. The in-vehicle communication I / F 20D is connected to the external bus 20G.

[0044] The wireless communication I / F 20E is a wireless communication module for communicating with the server 40. The wireless communication I / F 20E uses communication standards such as 5G, LTE, and Wi-Fi (registered trademark). The wireless communication I / F 20E is connected to a network N.

[0045] The ECU 22 includes, for example, an ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance System)-ECU 22A, a steering ECU 22B, and an information system ECU 22C.

[0046] The ADAS-ECU 22A performs overall control of the advanced driver assistance system. The ADAS-ECU 22A is connected to an in-vehicle device 24A. The in-vehicle device 24A includes a vehicle speed sensor, an acceleration sensor, and a yaw rate sensor. The in-vehicle device 24A also includes a group of external sensors used to detect the surrounding environment of the vehicle 12. The group of external sensors includes, for example, a camera that captures images of the surroundings of the vehicle 12, a millimeter-wave radar that transmits detection waves and receives reflected waves, and a lidar (laser imaging detection and ranging) that scans the area ahead of the vehicle 12.

[0047] Furthermore, the in-vehicle device 24A is configured to include an in-vehicle camera, such as a drive recorder, installed in the vehicle cabin. The in-vehicle device 20 is configured to be able to identify the driver from the image of the driver captured by the in-vehicle camera.

[0048] The steering ECU 22B is connected to an in-vehicle device 24B, which is a power steering device including a steering angle sensor.

[0049] The information ECU 22C controls the car navigation system, the display, the audio, etc. A GPS device constituting the in-vehicle device 24C is connected to the information ECU 22C. The GPS device is a device that measures the current position of the vehicle 12. The GPS device includes an antenna (not shown) that receives signals from GPS satellites. In addition, the display constituting the in-vehicle device 24C, for example, has both a function as a display device that displays various information as images, including information received from the server 40, and a function as an input device that can be operated by an occupant to input information. In addition, the audio constituting the in-vehicle device 24C has a function of notifying the occupant of information from the server 40 by sound. The GPS device, the display, and the audio may be directly connected to the in-vehicle device 20.

[0050] (Functional configuration of the vehicle-mounted device 20) As shown in FIG. 3, the in-vehicle device 20 functions as an acquisition unit 200, a transmission unit 202, a display unit 204, an output unit 206, a control unit 208, and an update unit 210 by the CPU 20A executing the control program 120.

[0051] The acquisition unit 200 has a function of acquiring signals from various sensors including a display, a GPS device, and an in-vehicle camera as the in-vehicle device 24.

[0052] The transmitting unit 202 has a function of transmitting the vehicle information 100 stored in the ROM 20B to the server 40. The transmitting unit 202 also has a function of transmitting a signal input on the display and acquired by the acquiring unit 200 to the server 40. An example of a case where a signal is input on the display is when the user selects a setting introduction form on the display of the vehicle 12.

[0053] The display unit 204 has a function of displaying on the display an image transmitted from the server 40. As an example, the display unit 204 displays on the display a selection screen for the setting introduction mode transmitted from the server 40.

[0054] The output unit 206 has a function of outputting various sound data including the audio data transmitted from the server 40 to an audio speaker.

[0055] The control unit 208 has a function of controlling the vehicle 12 based on the driving assistance program 110. The control unit 208 also controls various actuators serving as the in-vehicle equipment 24 based on signals obtained from various sensors serving as the in-vehicle equipment 24.

[0056] The update unit 210 has a function of rewriting the driving assistance program 110 stored in the ROM 20B in accordance with the information related to the settings transmitted from the server 40.

[0057] (Hardware configuration of server 40) 4, the server 40 includes a CPU 40A, a ROM 40B, a RAM 40C, a storage 40D, and a communication I / F 40E. The CPU 40A, the ROM 40B, the RAM 40C, the storage 40D, and the communication I / F 40E are connected to each other via an internal bus 40F so as to be able to communicate with each other. The functions of the CPU 40A, the ROM 40B, the RAM 40C, and the communication I / F 40E are the same as those of the CPU 20A, the ROM 20B, the RAM 20C, and the wireless communication I / F 20E of the vehicle-mounted device 20 described above.

[0058] The storage 40D as a memory is configured by a hard disk drive (HDD) or a solid state drive (SSD).

[0059] The storage 40D stores a processing program 130 for controlling the server 40. When the processing program 130 is executed, the server 40 executes various processes, including an application process for applying settings related to driving assistance to the vehicle 12 in accordance with the implementation form selected by the user.

[0060] Here, the setting introduction form includes, for example, introduction for normal use and introduction for trial use. When the setting is introduced to the vehicle 12 for trial use, the setting is applied to the vehicle 12 under predetermined conditions selected by the user. For example, the introduction for trial use includes introduction with a termination condition, in which a predetermined termination condition is set and the setting can be used until the termination condition is met. Furthermore, for example, the introduction for trial use includes introduction with a usage condition, in which the setting can be used under predetermined usage conditions. Furthermore, for example, the introduction for trial use includes introduction of a pay-as-you-go system, in which the setting can be used by paying only for the amount used. The processing in each introduction form will be described later using Figures 6 to 11.

[0061] The storage 40D also stores an application condition DB 140. The application condition DB 140 is a database relating to various conditions according to each implementation form when the settings are implemented in the vehicle 12 for trial use.

[0062] Furthermore, the storage 40D stores an applicable vehicle reference table 150. The applicable vehicle reference table 150 stores a list of setting items related to driving assistance, and information about vehicles such as the vehicle model, model number, and model year to which each setting item can be applied in each implementation form.

[0063] Furthermore, the storage 40D stores a usage amount reference table 160 that stores coefficients for calculating usage amounts for each type of implementation of each setting.

[0064] In addition, in this embodiment, the storage 40D is described as storing the processing program 130, the application condition DB 140, the applicable vehicle reference table 150, and the usage amount reference table 160, but the ROM 20B may also store the processing program 130, the application condition DB 140, the applicable vehicle reference table 150, and the usage amount reference table 160.

[0065] (Functional configuration of server 40) As shown in FIG. 5, the server 40 functions as an acquisition unit 400, an extraction unit 402, a presentation unit 404, a determination unit 406, a reception unit 408, a calculation unit 410, a billing unit 412, a setting change unit 414, a notification unit 416, and an inquiry unit 418 by the CPU 40A executing the processing program 130.

[0066] The acquisition unit 400 has a function of acquiring the above-mentioned various vehicle information 100 from the in-vehicle device 20 of the user's vehicle 12. The acquisition unit 400 also has a function of acquiring information relating to the elapsed time since the setting was introduced into the vehicle 12. Furthermore, the acquisition unit 400 has a function of acquiring information relating to the driving time zone in which the vehicle 12 is driving.

[0067] The extraction unit 402 has the function of extracting the setting introduction form that can be used in the vehicle 12 by referring to the applicable vehicle reference table 150 based on the vehicle information 100 such as the vehicle model, model number, and year acquired by the acquisition unit 400.

[0068] The presentation unit 404 has a function of presenting options of setting introduction modes available in the vehicle 12 extracted by the extraction unit 402 to at least one of the vehicle 12 and the terminal 30 of the user.

[0069] The determination unit 406 has a function of determining whether a setting introduction mode has been selected by the user in the user's vehicle 12 or terminal 30. Furthermore, the determination unit 406 has a function of determining whether the introduction mode selected by the user is introduction for normal use or introduction for trial use. Furthermore, the determination unit 406 has a function of determining whether the introduction mode selected by the user is paid or free.

[0070] The determination unit 406 also has a function of determining whether or not a predetermined condition related to the introduction form of the trial use selected by the user has an end condition by referring to the application condition DB 140. The determination unit 406 also has a function of determining whether or not the end condition is satisfied based on information such as the vehicle information 100 acquired by the acquisition unit 400 by referring to the application condition DB 140.

[0071] As an example, the determination unit 406 determines whether a predetermined time has elapsed since the setting was introduced into the vehicle 12, based on the information regarding the elapsed time acquired by the acquisition unit 400. The introduction of the setting refers to, for example, installing software into the vehicle 12, but the timing for starting to measure the time is not limited to this.

[0072] As another example, the determination unit 406 determines whether the vehicle 12 has been driven for a predetermined time since the setting was introduced to the vehicle 12, based on the vehicle information 100 related to driving time. Note that the determination unit 406 may determine whether the vehicle 12 has been driven for a predetermined time from a predetermined date and time each month, for example, so that the user can use the setting for only a predetermined time each month.

[0073] As yet another example, the determination unit 406 determines whether the vehicle 12 has traveled a predetermined distance since the setting was introduced to the vehicle 12, based on the vehicle information 100 related to the travel distance. Note that the determination unit 406 may determine whether the vehicle 12 has traveled a predetermined distance by measuring from a predetermined date and time each month, for example, so that the user can use the setting up to a predetermined distance each month.

[0074] Furthermore, the determination unit 406 has a function of determining whether or not a predetermined condition related to the introduction form of the trial use selected by the user has a usage condition by referring to the application condition DB 140. The determination unit 406 also has a function of determining whether or not the usage condition is satisfied based on information such as the vehicle information 100 acquired by the acquisition unit 400 by referring to the application condition DB 140.

[0075] As an example, the determination unit 406 determines whether the vehicle 12 is traveling in a predetermined time period based on the information about the traveling time period acquired by the acquisition unit 400.

[0076] As another example, the determination unit 406 determines whether the vehicle 12 is traveling along a predetermined route based on the vehicle information 100 relating to the route.

[0077] As yet another example, the determination unit 406 determines whether the vehicle 12 is traveling in a predetermined traveling area based on the vehicle information 100 related to the traveling area.

[0078] As yet another example, the determination unit 406 determines whether a specific driver is driving the vehicle 12 based on the vehicle information 100 related to the driver.

[0079] Furthermore, when the predetermined condition related to the introduction mode of the trial use selected by the user has a use condition, the determining unit 406 determines whether or not a predetermined period has elapsed since the introduction of the setting.

[0080] Furthermore, when the user selects the pay-as-you-go implementation form, the determination unit 406 has a function of referring to the application condition DB 140 and determining whether the setting has been used since the last billing or, if it is the first billing, since activation, based on information regarding the amount of usage of the setting acquired by the acquisition unit 400. Here, examples of the information regarding the amount of usage include the cumulative time the setting has been used since the last billing or, if it is the first billing, since activation, and the cumulative distance traveled by the vehicle 12 using the setting. Furthermore, when the user selects the pay-as-you-go implementation form, the determination unit 406 determines whether a predetermined period of time has passed since the setting was introduced.

[0081] Furthermore, the determining unit 406 has a function of determining whether or not the user wishes to continue using the service in response to an inquiry from an inquiry unit 418, which will be described later.

[0082] The receiving unit 408 has a function of receiving the introduction mode of the settings related to driving assistance of the vehicle 12 that is presented by the presentation unit 404 and selected by the user on the user's vehicle 12 or terminal 30.

[0083] The calculation unit 410 has a function of calculating the usage fee for the selected implementation form by referring to the usage fee reference table 160. Here, when the user selects the pay-as-you-go implementation form, the calculation unit 410 calculates the fee according to the usage amount based on the information on the usage amount acquired by the acquisition unit 400.

[0084] The billing unit 412 has a function of billing the user for the cost of using the settings calculated by the calculation unit 410.

[0085] The setting change unit 414 applies the settings to the user's vehicle 12 and changes the settings of the vehicle 12. Specifically, the setting change unit 414 has a function of installing software in the vehicle 12 or activating software already installed in the vehicle 12 so that the update unit 210 of the in-vehicle device 20 can rewrite the driving assistance program 110. The setting change unit 414 also has a function of uninstalling software from the vehicle 12 or deactivating the software.

[0086] Here, when the user selects a trial use introduction form in which settings are applied to the vehicle 12 under specified conditions, the setting change unit 414 has the function of applying the settings to the vehicle 12 under specified conditions in accordance with the user's selection accepted by the acceptance unit 408.

[0087] The notification unit 416 has a function of sending a notification to at least one of the vehicle 12 and the terminal 30. Notification methods include displaying on the display of the vehicle 12, outputting audio from the audio speaker of the vehicle 12, sending an email to the terminal 30, notifying an application downloaded to the terminal 30, etc. Examples of notification content include displaying an installation type selection screen, notifying software installation, notifying activation, notifying deactivation, notifying fee billing, etc.

[0088] The inquiry unit 418 has a function of inquiring of the user as to whether or not he or she wishes to continue using the settings.

[0089] (Example of processing flow) Next, the flow of processing executed by the vehicle information processing system 10 will be described with reference to the flowcharts shown in FIGS.

[0090] In step S10 of FIG. 6, the CPU 40A of the server 40 acquires the vehicle information 100 from the vehicle-mounted device 20U of the vehicle 12 of the user.

[0091] In step S12, the CPU 40A extracts the implementation form of the settings related to driving assistance available in the vehicle 12 based on the vehicle information 100.

[0092] In step S14, the CPU 40A presents options for setting implementation modes available in the vehicle 12 to at least one of the vehicle 12 and the terminal 30 of the user.

[0093] In step S16, the CPU 40A determines whether or not the user has selected a setting introduction mode in the vehicle 12 or the terminal 30.

[0094] If it is determined in step S16 that no introduction form has been selected, CPU 40A ends the process.

[0095] If it is determined in step S16 that an introduction form has been selected, CPU 40A accepts the selection of the introduction form in step S18.

[0096] In step S20, CPU 40A determines whether the introduction mode selected by the user is introduction for normal use or introduction for trial use.

[0097] If it is determined in step S20 that the introduction mode selected by the user is introduction for normal use, then in step S22, CPU 40A calculates the usage fee for the set normal use.

[0098] In step S24, CPU 40A determines whether the usage fee calculated in step S22 is free or charged.

[0099] If it is determined in step S24 that the usage fee is chargeable, CPU 40A charges the user for the normal usage of the setting in step S26.

[0100] If it is determined in step S24 that the usage fee is free, CPU 40A executes the process of step S28 without charging the user any fee.

[0101] In step S28, the CPU 40A notifies the vehicle 12 or the terminal 30 that the software will be installed in the vehicle 12.

[0102] In step S30, the CPU 40A installs the software in the vehicle 12 and ends the process.

[0103] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S20 that the introduction mode selected by the user is introduction for trial use, then in step S40, CPU 40A executes a conditional application process.

[0104] The conditional application process will be described in detail below with reference to FIG.

[0105] In step S100, CPU 40A determines whether or not the predetermined condition related to the introduction mode of the trial use selected by the user has an end condition.

[0106] If it is determined in step S100 that the predetermined conditions related to the introduction mode selected by the user include a termination condition, the CPU 40A calculates the usage fee for the set trial use in step S102. The usage fee for the trial use calculated here is set lower than the usage fee for the normal use described above.

[0107] In step S104, CPU 40A determines whether the usage fee calculated in step S102 is free or charged.

[0108] If it is determined in step S104 that the usage fee is chargeable, CPU 40A charges the user for the trial use of the settings in step S106.

[0109] If it is determined in step S104 that the usage fee is free, CPU 40A executes the process of step S108 without charging the user any fee.

[0110] In step S108, the CPU 40A notifies the vehicle 12 or the terminal 30 that the software will be installed in the vehicle 12.

[0111] In step S110, CPU 40A installs the software in vehicle 12 and executes the process of introduction pattern A with an end condition.

[0112] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S100 that the specified conditions related to the introduction form of trial use selected by the user do not have termination conditions, the CPU 40A determines in step S200 whether the specified conditions related to the introduction form of trial use selected by the user have usage conditions.

[0113] If it is determined in step S200 that the predetermined conditions related to the trial use introduction form selected by the user include usage conditions, the CPU 40A calculates the usage fee for the set trial use in step S202. The usage fee for the trial use calculated here is set lower than the usage fee for the normal use described above.

[0114] Steps S204 to S208 have the same flow as steps S104 to S108, and therefore the explanation will be omitted.

[0115] In step S210, CPU 40A installs the software in vehicle 12 and executes the process of introduction pattern B, which is an introduction pattern with usage conditions.

[0116] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S200 that the specified conditions related to the trial use introduction form selected by the user do not have usage conditions, then in step S300, the CPU 40A notifies the vehicle 12 or the terminal 30 that the software will be installed in the vehicle 12.

[0117] In step S302, CPU 40A installs the software in vehicle 12 and executes processing C, which is an introduction pattern of the pay-as-you-go system.

[0118] (Introduction process A with termination condition) The introduction process A with a termination condition will be described in detail below with reference to FIG.

[0119] In step S112, the CPU 40A activates the software installed in the vehicle 12.

[0120] In step S114, CPU 40A acquires information relating to elapsed time, vehicle information 100 relating to travel time, or vehicle information 100 relating to travel distance, depending on the introduction mode selected by the user.

[0121] In step S116, the CPU 40A determines whether a termination condition corresponding to the installation mode selected by the user is satisfied based on the acquired information. For example, the CPU 40A determines whether a predetermined time has elapsed since the software was installed in the vehicle 12 based on information regarding the elapsed time.

[0122] If it is determined in step S116 that the termination condition is not satisfied, CPU 40A executes the process of step S114 again.

[0123] If it is determined in step S116 that the termination condition is satisfied, CPU 40A notifies the user in step S118 that activation will be cancelled, and then cancels activation in step S120 and executes inquiry processing D.

[0124] (Installation process B with terms of use) Next, the introduction process B with usage conditions will be described in detail with reference to FIG.

[0125] In step S212, CPU 40A acquires information relating to the travel time zone, vehicle information 100 relating to the travel route, vehicle information 100 relating to the travel area, or vehicle information 100 relating to the driver, depending on the introduction mode selected by the user.

[0126] In step S214, the CPU 40A determines whether the usage conditions according to the introduction mode selected by the user are satisfied based on the acquired information. For example, the CPU 40A determines whether the vehicle 12 is traveling in a predetermined time period based on information about the traveling time period.

[0127] If it is determined in step S214 that the usage conditions are satisfied, the CPU 40A issues a notification in step S216 to the effect that the software installed in the vehicle 12 will be activated, and activates the software in step S218.

[0128] In step S220, CPU 40A determines whether a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the setting was introduced, for example, whether a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the software was installed in vehicle 12 in step S210.

[0129] If it is determined in step S220 that the predetermined period has not elapsed, CPU 40A executes the process of step S212 again.

[0130] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S220 that the predetermined period has elapsed, CPU 40A executes inquiry processing D.

[0131] Furthermore, if it is determined in step S214 that the usage conditions are not satisfied, CPU 40A notifies vehicle 12 in step S222 that the software activation will be deactivated, and deactivates the software in step S224.

[0132] In step S226, CPU 40A determines whether or not a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the setting was introduced, similarly to step S220. The subsequent flow is similar to step S220, and therefore description thereof will be omitted.

[0133] (Pay-as-you-go system implementation process C) Next, the pay-as-you-go system introduction process C will be described in detail with reference to FIG.

[0134] In step S304, the CPU 40A activates the software installed in the vehicle 12.

[0135] In step S306, CPU 40A acquires information on the set usage amount from vehicle 12 in accordance with the installation form selected by the user.

[0136] In step S308, CPU 40A determines whether the setting has been used since the previous billing or, if this is the first billing, since activation in step S304, based on information related to the amount of use.

[0137] If it is determined in step S308 that the setting has not been used, CPU 40A executes the process of step S306 again.

[0138] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S308 that the setting has been used, the CPU 40A calculates the fee for the usage as a trial usage fee in step S310. For example, the CPU 40A calculates the trial usage fee based on the cumulative time that the setting has been used since the previous fee billing, or since activation if this is the first billing.

[0139] In step S312, CPU 40A bills the user for the fee for the usage calculated in step S310.

[0140] In step S314, CPU 40A determines whether a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the settings were installed, for example, whether a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the software was activated in step S304.

[0141] If it is determined in step S314 that the predetermined period has not elapsed, CPU 40A executes the process of step S306 again.

[0142] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S314 that the predetermined period has elapsed, CPU 40A executes inquiry processing D.

[0143] (Query processing D) In step S400, CPU 40A inquires of the user whether or not he or she wishes to continue using the settings. In step S402, CPU 40A determines whether or not the user wishes to continue use.

[0144] If it is determined in step S402 that the user does not wish to continue using the software, then in step S404, if the software is activated, CPU 40A deactivates the software and ends the process. Note that CPU 40A may also uninstall the software in step S404.

[0145] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S402 that the user wishes to continue use, the CPU 40A again presents the options for the introduction form to at least one of the user's vehicle 12 and terminal 30 in step S406. Note that if the user wishes to continue use, the processing may be executed using the same introduction form without re-presenting the options for the introduction form to the user. In this case, the processing returns from step S402 to the processing in A of FIG. 8, B of FIG. 9, or C of FIG. 10, depending on the introduction form used by the user, and is executed. When the server 40 performs this control, the user loses the opportunity to select the introduction form again, but the user's effort in continuing use can be further reduced.

[0146] In step S408, the CPU 40A determines whether or not the user has selected a setting introduction mode in the vehicle 12 or the terminal 30.

[0147] If it is determined in step S408 that no introduction form has been selected, CPU 40A executes the process of step S404.

[0148] If it is determined in step S408 that an introduction form has been selected, CPU 40A accepts the selection of the introduction form in step S410.

[0149] In step S412, CPU 40A determines whether the introduction mode selected by the user is introduction for normal use or introduction for trial use.

[0150] If it is determined in step S412 that the introduction mode selected by the user is introduction for normal use, CPU 40A calculates the usage fee for the set normal use in step S414.

[0151] In step S416, CPU 40A determines whether the usage fee calculated in step S414 is free or charged.

[0152] If it is determined in step S416 that the usage fee is chargeable, CPU 40A charges the user for the normal usage of the setting in step S418, and ends the process.

[0153] If it is determined in step S416 that the usage fee is free, CPU 40A ends the process without charging the user any fee.

[0154] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S412 that the introduction mode selected by the user is introduction for trial use, step S100 in FIG. 7 is executed again.

[0155] (Action of this embodiment) According to the vehicle information processing system 10 having the server 40 of this embodiment, when a user selects an implementation form for settings related to driving assistance for the vehicle 12, the selection is accepted by the accepting unit 408 of the server 40. Here, if the user selects an implementation form for trial use in which the settings are applied to the vehicle 12 under predetermined conditions, the setting change unit 414 of the server 40 applies the settings to the vehicle 12 under predetermined conditions according to the user's selection. In other words, the user can try out settings that interest them under predetermined conditions. Therefore, even a user who is hesitant to apply settings to the vehicle 12 in a normal use implementation without conditions can easily apply the settings to the vehicle 12.

[0156] Furthermore, if the user selects an introduction mode with a termination condition, the acquisition unit 400 acquires information regarding any one of the elapsed time, the travel time, and the travel distance. Furthermore, based on the acquired information, the determination unit 406 determines whether or not a predetermined termination condition according to the user's selection has been satisfied.

[0157] Then, when the determination unit 406 determines that the termination condition is satisfied, that is, when a predetermined time has passed since the setting was introduced, when the vehicle 12 has traveled a predetermined time since the setting was introduced, or when the vehicle 12 has traveled a predetermined distance since the setting was introduced, the setting change unit 414 cancels the application of the setting to the vehicle 12. This allows the user to try out and use the setting of interest for only a predetermined time or a predetermined distance. Therefore, the application of the setting to the vehicle 12 is automatically canceled without the user having to perform any complicated operations.

[0158] Furthermore, if the user selects an introduction form with usage conditions, the acquisition unit 400 acquires information on any of the driving time period, driving route, driving area, and driver. Furthermore, based on the acquired information, the determination unit 406 determines whether or not the predetermined usage conditions according to the user's selection are satisfied.

[0159] Here, if the vehicle 12 is not being used under the predetermined usage conditions that have been set in advance, the settings are not applied to the vehicle 12. On the other hand, if the determination unit 406 determines that the usage conditions are met, that is, if the vehicle 12 is traveling during a predetermined time period, traveling along a predetermined route, traveling in a predetermined area, or if a predetermined driver is driving the vehicle 12, the settings are applied to the vehicle 12 by the setting change unit 414. Thus, the user can experience and use settings of interest only when using the vehicle 12 under the predetermined usage conditions that the user has determined to be necessary and selected. For example, the user can use settings related to driving assistance only during commuting hours.

[0160] Furthermore, if the user selects the pay-as-you-go implementation format, the acquisition unit 400 acquires information regarding at least one of the usage amounts, i.e., the time during which the setting was used and the distance traveled by the vehicle 12 using the setting. Furthermore, based on the acquired information regarding the usage amount, the fee billing unit 412 bills the user a fee according to the usage amount. Thus, the user can try out a setting that interests them by paying a fee only for the amount used.

[0161] Furthermore, the query unit 418 queries the user as to whether or not the user wishes to continue using the settings. If the user does not wish to continue using the settings in response to the query by the query unit, the setting change unit 414 cancels application of the settings to the vehicle 12. On the other hand, if the user wishes to continue using the settings in response to the query by the query unit, the setting change unit 414 maintains the settings in a usable state.

[0162] In particular, according to the server 40 of this embodiment, if the user wishes to continue using the settings, the user is again presented with a choice of installation modes. This allows the user to continue with the same installation mode, try out the settings again in a different installation mode, or install the settings for normal use. For example, if the user likes the settings used in the trial use, they can install those settings for normal use.

[0163] Furthermore, the server 40 according to this embodiment allows users to try out not only paid introduction forms but also free introduction forms.

[0164] <Supplementary explanation of the above embodiment> In the above embodiment, the introduction forms presented by the server 40 are described as including the introduction form for normal use, but this is not limiting, and the server 40 may present only the introduction form for trial use to the user.

[0165] In the above embodiment, the server 40 is described as presenting all of the installation modes, including the installation mode with termination conditions, the installation mode with usage conditions, and the pay-as-you-go installation mode, but this is not limited to this. For example, the server 40 may present only the installation mode with termination conditions to the user.

[0166] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the query unit 418 is described as querying the user as to whether or not the user wishes to continue using the settings, but this is not limited to this. For example, when the trial use ends, the server 40 may end the process without querying the user as to whether or not the user wishes to continue using the settings. Also, for example, when the trial use ends, the server 40 may perform a process of transitioning to normal use without querying the user as to whether or not the user wishes to continue using the settings.

[0167] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, it was described that the notification unit 416 displays an installation type selection screen, notifies the user of software installation, notifies the user of activation, notifies the user of deactivation, notifies the user of fee billing, etc., but this is not limited to this, and the server 40 does not need to be equipped with the notification unit 416.

[0168] In the above embodiment, the CPU 40A determines whether a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the setting was installed in step S314, and if the predetermined period of time has elapsed, inquires the user in step S400 whether he or she wishes to continue using the service. However, this is not limited to this. For example, the determination unit 406 may determine whether the cumulative billing amount based on the amount of usage since the setting was installed exceeds the regular usage fee. In this case, the user can be asked whether he or she wishes to continue using the service when the trial usage fee exceeds the regular usage fee. This prevents the trial usage fee from exceeding the regular usage fee without the user's knowledge. Also, for example, the CPU 40A may automatically bill the user for the regular usage fee when the cumulative billing amount based on the amount of usage since the setting was installed exceeds the regular usage fee. This prevents the user from paying a usage fee that exceeds the regular usage fee. In either case, the user's resistance to installing the setting in the vehicle 12 can be further alleviated. [Explanation of symbols]

[0169] 10 Vehicle information processing system 12 vehicles 20 Onboard equipment 40 Server (vehicle information processing device) 400 Acquisition Department 406 Judgment section 408 Reception Department 412 Billing Department 414 Setting change section 418 Inquiry Department

Claims

1. a reception unit that receives a user's selection regarding an implementation form of settings related to driving assistance for a vehicle; a setting change unit that applies the setting to the vehicle under the predetermined conditions in accordance with the user's selection accepted by the accepting unit, when the user selects an introduction mode for trial use in which the setting is applied to the vehicle under the predetermined conditions; a first acquisition unit that acquires information regarding either an elapsed time or a traveling time; a first determination unit that determines whether a predetermined termination condition is satisfied based on the information acquired by the first acquisition unit; and the termination condition is either a case where a predetermined time has elapsed since the setting was introduced or a case where the vehicle has been running for a predetermined time since the setting was introduced, the setting change unit cancels application of the setting to the vehicle when the first determination unit determines that the termination condition is satisfied. Vehicle information processing device.

2. a reception unit that receives a user's selection regarding an implementation form of settings related to driving assistance for a vehicle; a setting change unit that applies the setting to the vehicle under the predetermined conditions in accordance with the user's selection accepted by the accepting unit, when the user selects an introduction mode for trial use in which the setting is applied to the vehicle under the predetermined conditions; a second acquisition unit that acquires information regarding either a driving time zone or a driver of the vehicle; a second determination unit that determines whether or not a predetermined usage condition set in advance is satisfied based on the information acquired by the second acquisition unit; and The usage conditions are either when the vehicle is traveling during a predetermined time period or when a predetermined driver is driving the vehicle, the setting change unit does not apply the setting to the vehicle when the second determination unit determines that the usage conditions are not satisfied, and applies the setting to the vehicle when the second determination unit determines that the usage conditions are satisfied. Vehicle information processing device.

3. a third acquisition unit that acquires information regarding at least one of a time when the setting is used and a distance traveled by the vehicle using the setting; a fee billing unit that bills the user a fee according to the amount of use based on the information about the amount of use acquired by the third acquisition unit; 3. The vehicle information processing device according to claim 1, further comprising:

4. 4. The vehicle information processing device according to claim 3, wherein the fee billing unit, when the fee according to the amount of usage exceeds the normal usage fee, asks the user whether he / she wishes to continue using the service or bills the user for the normal usage fee.

5. further comprising an inquiry unit that inquires of the user whether or not the user wishes to continue using the setting; the setting change unit cancels application of the setting to the vehicle when the user does not wish to continue using the setting in response to the inquiry by the inquiry unit, and maintains the setting in an available state when the user wishes to continue using the setting in response to the inquiry by the inquiry unit.

3. The vehicle information processing device according to claim 1.

6. 3. The vehicle information processing device according to claim 1, an on-board device that controls the vehicle in accordance with the setting; A vehicle information processing system having the same.

7. Accepting a user's selection regarding the implementation form of settings related to driving assistance for the vehicle; If the user selects a trial use introduction mode in which the setting is applied to the vehicle under predetermined conditions, the setting is applied to the vehicle under the predetermined conditions in accordance with the user's selection, and acquiring information regarding either an elapsed time or a running time, and determining whether a predetermined termination condition set in advance is satisfied based on the acquired information; the termination condition is either a case where a predetermined time has elapsed since the setting was introduced or a case where the vehicle has been running for a predetermined time since the setting was introduced, canceling application of the setting to the vehicle when it is determined that the termination condition is satisfied; An information processing method for a vehicle in which processing is performed by a computer.

8. Accepting a user's selection regarding the implementation form of settings related to driving assistance for the vehicle; If the user selects a trial use introduction mode in which the setting is applied to the vehicle under predetermined conditions, the setting is applied to the vehicle under the predetermined conditions in accordance with the user's selection, and acquiring information relating to either a time period during which the vehicle is traveling or a driver, and determining whether or not a predetermined usage condition set in advance is satisfied based on the acquired information; The usage conditions are either when the vehicle is traveling during a predetermined time period or when a predetermined driver is driving the vehicle, not applying the setting to the vehicle when it is determined that the usage conditions are not satisfied, and applying the setting to the vehicle when it is determined that the usage conditions are satisfied. An information processing method for a vehicle in which processing is performed by a computer.

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