Information processing device and information processing method

Abstract

To increase convenience for a vehicle user.SOLUTION: When a predetermined access point is detected, an information processing device that establishes a wireless connection between a vehicle and a predetermined access point suppresses wireless connections to a given access point for a first time period from when the vehicle stops until a predetermined timing arrives.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] Automobiles capable of wireless network connection are becoming more common. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses an invention relating to a vehicle that, when it detects a predetermined access point, connects to a network via the access point. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2020-522783 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 that controls wireless communication performed by a vehicle, and has a control unit that establishes a wireless connection with a specified access point when the control unit detects the specified access point, and the control unit suppresses the wireless connection to the specified access point at least during a first period from when the vehicle stops until a specified timing arrives.

[0006] One aspect of an embodiment of the present disclosure is an information processing device that controls wireless communication performed by a vehicle, and has a control unit that, when detecting one of a plurality of access points, establishes a wireless connection with the access point, and the control unit suppresses the wireless connection to a first access point included in the plurality of access points during a first period from a first timing at which the first access point is detected until a predetermined second timing arrives.

[0007] One aspect of an embodiment of the present disclosure is an information processing method executed by an information processing device that controls wireless communication performed by a vehicle, the information processing method including: when a predetermined access point is detected, establishing a wireless connection with the predetermined access point; and suppressing the wireless connection to the predetermined access point during at least a first period from when the vehicle stops until a predetermined timing arrives.

[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 non-temporarily storing 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. 10 is a diagram illustrating switching of connection destinations. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating components of the vehicle according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating functional modules included in a control unit 101. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating functional modules included in a control unit 201. [Figure 6]FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating components of a user terminal. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a data flow diagram during execution of remote parking. [Figure 8] An example of a screen provided on a user terminal. [Figure 9] 4 is a flowchart of a remote parking process according to the first embodiment. [Figure 10] 10 is a flowchart of a remote parking process according to a second embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] In recent years, automobiles with wireless 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] In addition to cellular communications, there are also DCMs that can connect to local networks using communication standards such as Wi-Fi (registered trademark). Using such DCMs makes it possible to download large amounts of data, such as map data and software used by in-vehicle terminals.

[0013] There are DCMs that can directly connect to user terminals using Wi-Fi or other means and provide various functions. One such function is the remote parking function, which automatically parks a vehicle in a designated parking space via the user terminal. For example, a vehicle user gets out of the vehicle, checks the surrounding area for safety, and issues a movement instruction via a user terminal. The vehicle determines a trajectory for entering a designated parking space and moves forward or backward at a slow speed while controlling the steering based on the movement instruction received from the user terminal. This makes it easy to enter the vehicle.

[0014] Such DCMs are configured to be able to switch between two modes: a mode for connecting to an access point and a mode for accepting connections from user terminals. However, if the mode is not selected appropriately, usability may be impaired.

[0015] For example, consider a case where a vehicle owner has a wireless home network set up at their home and the vehicle returns home. When the DCM detects the home network, it starts connecting to an access point and initiates communication as needed. Meanwhile, the vehicle owner may try to connect a user terminal to the DCM after arriving to perform remote parking.

[0016] In such cases, the DCM must interrupt the connection to the home network and reconnect to the user terminal. However, if the connection cannot be interrupted immediately, for example, because a data download has already begun, the connection to the user terminal cannot be established immediately, resulting in a waiting time. Furthermore, the DCM may have to redo the sequence process or retry the connection, which may increase power consumption and reduce service response. The information processing device according to the present disclosure solves such a problem.

[0017] An information processing device according to one aspect of the present disclosure is an information processing device that controls wireless communication performed by a vehicle, and has a control unit that establishes a wireless connection with a specified access point when the control unit detects the specified access point, and is characterized in that the control unit suppresses the wireless connection to the specified access point at least during a first period from when the vehicle stops until a specified timing arrives.

[0018] A vehicle according to the present disclosure performs wireless communication using a wireless communication standard such as IEEE802.11. The predetermined access point is typically an access point available in a location where a wireless connection request may be received from another terminal (such as a user terminal). When the vehicle is stopped in such a location, the information processing device suppresses connection to the access point until a predetermined timing arrives. This allows the information processing device to smoothly accept wireless connection requests from other terminals.

[0019] The first period is a period during which automatic connection to the access point is inhibited. The first period may start when the vehicle stops or may start before the vehicle stops. The first period may also expire when remote parking control of the vehicle ends or when acceptance of a wireless connection from a user terminal times out. Remote parking control is a control that automatically controls the steering of a vehicle to allow the vehicle to enter a parking space.

[0020] In addition, an information processing device according to another aspect of the present disclosure is an information processing device that controls wireless communication performed by a vehicle, and has a control unit that, when detecting one of a plurality of access points, establishes a wireless connection with the access point, and is characterized in that the control unit suppresses the wireless connection to the first access point during a first period from a first timing at which a first access point included in the plurality of access points is detected until a predetermined second timing arrives.

[0021] The first access point is typically an access point available in a location where a wireless connection request may be generated from another terminal (such as a user terminal). When the information processing device detects such an access point, the information processing device may suppress connection to the access point until a predetermined timing arrives.

[0022] 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.

[0023] (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 user terminal 20.

[0024] The vehicle 10 is a connected car that has a communication function with an external network. The vehicle 10 includes a DCM (Data Communication Module) 100 and an electronic control unit 200 (also referred to as an ECU). Although FIG. 1 illustrates a single ECU 200, the vehicle 10 may include multiple ECUs 200.

[0025] The DCM 100 is a device that performs wireless communication with an external network. The DCM 100 functions as a gateway for connecting components of the vehicle 10 (hereinafter referred to as vehicle components) to the external network. For example, the DCM 100 provides the ECU 200 of the vehicle 10 with access to the external network. This allows the ECU 200 to communicate with external devices connected to the network via the DCM 100.

[0026] 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 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 access points, and when it detects an available access point, it connects to that access point.

[0027] The user terminal 20 is a computer carried by a vehicle occupant. The user terminal 20 is a small computing device such as a smartphone, a tablet computer, or a wearable computer. In the vehicle system according to this embodiment, the user terminal 20 can provide a remote parking function by wirelessly connecting to the DCM 100.

[0028] Next, the features of the DCM 100 in this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0029] Here, it is assumed that a home network is established at the home of the owner of the vehicle 10. For example, when the vehicle 10 is in a parking lot at the owner's home, the DCM 100 can connect to an external network via the home network. This allows each component of the vehicle 10 to download data used while traveling (e.g., music, video, e-mail, traffic information, road map data, etc.), update software, etc. (FIG. 2(A)).

[0030] On the other hand, immediately after the vehicle 10 arrives at home, the user terminal 20 may issue a connection request to the DCM 100 to execute the remote parking function. However, if the DCM 100 installed in the vehicle 10 connects to the home network first, it will not be able to immediately respond to a connection request from a user terminal. This is because, for example, the following steps are required: (1) the DCM 100 disconnects from the local network in response to a connection request sent from the user terminal 20, and (2) the DCM 100 accepts a connection from the user terminal 20 (FIG. 2(B)). Furthermore, if the DCM 100 is transmitting or receiving data via the home network, additional time may be required to suspend the transmission or reception.

[0031] Therefore, the DCM 100 according to this embodiment switches in advance to a mode in which automatic connection to an access point is suppressed and the DCM 100 waits for a connection from the user terminal 20 before the vehicle 10 arrives at home (FIG. 2(C)). This mode is released when entry by remote parking is completed or when the wait for connection times out. This allows the vehicle 10 to smoothly perform remote parking after arriving at the home. A specific method will be described later.

[0032] 3 is a diagram illustrating components of a vehicle 10 according to this embodiment. The vehicle 10 according to this embodiment includes a DCM 100, a plurality of ECUs 200A, 200B, . . . (hereinafter collectively referred to as ECUs 200), and a sensor group 300. The ECU 200 may include multiple ECUs that control different vehicle components, such as a body ECU, an engine ECU, a hybrid ECU, and a powertrain ECU. In this embodiment, the ECU 200 that provides the remote parking function is a parking ECU 200A is shown as an example.

[0033] The sensor group 300 includes a plurality of sensors (distance sensors, image sensors, etc.) used in the remote parking function. The plurality of sensors may be installed at a plurality of locations on the vehicle body.

[0034] 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.

[0035] 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.).

[0036] 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, DSRC (Dedicated Short Range Communications), and millimeter wave communication. Like the first communication module, the second communication module 120 includes an antenna element that inputs and outputs wireless signals. Note that the antenna may 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 the communication. In this embodiment, the second communication module 120 performs communication using Wi-Fi.

[0037] The second communication module 120 is configured to be operable in either a mode in which it connects to an access point as a client or a mode in which it accepts connections from other devices as a server. The former is called the client mode, and the latter is called the server mode. When operating in the client mode, it is possible to access an external network via an access point. Furthermore, when operating in the server mode, it is possible to establish a direct connection with the user terminal 20 to execute the remote parking function.

[0038] 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 .

[0039] 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.

[0040] The control unit 101 performs the function of connecting to an external network via either a cellular communication 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 performs a function of receiving data transmitted from the external network and transferring the data to an appropriate vehicle component.

[0041] 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.

[0042] 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.

[0043] 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 ECU 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 the Controller Area Network (CAN). If the network uses multiple standards, the communication unit 103 may have multiple interface devices that match the standards of the communication destination. An example of a communication standard other than CAN is Ethernet (registered trademark).

[0044] 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.

[0045] Next, we will explain the functions executed by the control unit 101. Fig. 4 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.

[0046] 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.

[0047] Furthermore, the wireless connection control unit 1011 selects an operation mode from the server mode and the client mode when performing communication using the second communication module 120. A specific method for doing so will be described later.

[0048] The data relay unit 1012 relays data transmitted and received between vehicle components. For example, the data relay unit 1012 receives a message sent by a first device connected to the in-vehicle network, and, if necessary, forwards the message to a second device connected to the in-vehicle network. The first and second devices may be the ECU 200 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 transfers the data to an appropriate vehicle component.

[0049] The emergency notification unit 1013 makes an emergency notification to an operator outside the vehicle when an abnormal situation occurs in the vehicle 10. Examples of abnormal situations include a traffic accident and a vehicle breakdown. The emergency notification unit 1013 starts a connection with an operator when a predetermined trigger occurs, such as pressing a call button provided in the vehicle or deploying an airbag, and enables a call between the vehicle occupant and the operator. When making an emergency call, the emergency notification unit 1013 may transmit vehicle location information to the operator. In this case, the emergency notification unit 1013 may obtain the location information from the GPS module 140.

[0050] The security management unit 1014 performs security monitoring processing. For example, based on data received from the ECU 200 that manages the vehicle's electronic lock, the security management unit 1014 detects that the vehicle has been unlocked without following a proper 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, the security management unit 1014 may acquire the location information and periodically transmit the acquired location information to a pre-specified external device.

[0051] The update unit 1015 updates software used by its own device (DCM 100) or an electronic control unit (ECU 200) of the vehicle 10. For example, the update unit 1015 manages the versions of firmware stored in a plurality of ECUs 200, and when new firmware is provided by an external device, it downloads it via a network and executes a process of applying it to the target device.

[0052] Although the emergency call function, security function, and software update function have been listed here as unique functions provided by the DCM 100, 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.

[0053] Next, the parking ECU 200A will be described. The parking ECU 200A is an electronic control unit that executes a remote parking function based on a request transmitted from the user terminal 20. Similar to the DCM 100, the ECU 200 can be configured as a computer having a processor such as a CPU or GPU, a main storage device such as a RAM or ROM, and an auxiliary storage device such as an EPROM, a disk drive, or removable media.

[0054] The parking ECU 200A includes a control unit 201, a storage unit 202, and a communication unit 203. The control unit 201 is an arithmetic unit (processor) that executes predetermined programs to realize various functions of the parking ECU 200 A. The storage unit 202 is a memory device that includes a main storage device and an auxiliary storage device. The communication unit 203 is a communication interface that connects the parking ECU 200A to an in-vehicle network. The communication unit 203 executes a process of transmitting a message in a predetermined format generated by the control unit 201 to the network bus, and a process of transmitting a message received from the network bus to the control unit 201.

[0055] 5 is a schematic diagram illustrating the functional modules of the control unit 201. The functional modules of the control unit 201 can be realized by the control unit 201 executing a program stored in a storage unit such as a ROM.

[0056] The parking control unit 2011 generates commands (for example, forward / reverse commands, steering commands) for parking the vehicle in a predetermined area based on sensor data acquired from a plurality of sensors included in the sensor group 300, and controls components (for example, other EC U200).

[0057] 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.

[0058] Next, a description will be given of the user terminal 20. Fig. 6 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the user terminal 20 in this embodiment. The user terminal 20 is a computer associated with a user. The user terminal 20 is typically a terminal carried by a vehicle occupant. The vehicle occupant can communicate with the parking ECU 200A via the user terminal 20 and cause the vehicle 10 to execute the remote parking function.

[0059] The user terminal 20 is, for example, a computer such as a personal computer, a smartphone, a mobile phone, a tablet computer, a personal digital assistant, etc. The user terminal 20 includes a control unit 21, a storage unit 22, a communication unit 23, and an input / output unit 24.

[0060] The control unit 21 is a means for controlling the user terminal 20. The control unit 21 executes, for example, a process of transmitting a request to the parking ECU 200A, a process of interacting with the parking ECU 200A, etc. The control unit 21 may generate a GUI to be presented to the user based on information transmitted from the parking ECU 200A. The control unit 21 is configured by, for example, a microcomputer. The control unit 21 may realize these functions by executing a program stored in a storage means (such as a ROM) using a CPU.

[0061] The storage unit 22 is configured to include a main storage device and an auxiliary storage device. The main storage device is a memory in which programs executed by the control unit 21 and data used by the control programs are expanded. The auxiliary storage device is a device in which programs executed by the control unit 21 and data used by the control programs are stored. The auxiliary storage device may store programs executed by the control unit 21 packaged as applications. It may also store an operating system for executing these applications. The programs stored in the auxiliary storage device are loaded into the main storage device and executed by the control unit 21, thereby performing the processing described below.

[0062] The main memory may include RAM (Random Access Memory) and ROM (Read Only Memory). The auxiliary memory may include EPROM (Erasable Programmable ROM) and hard disk. It may also include a disk drive (HDD, Hard Disk Drive). may include removable media, i.e., portable recording media.

[0063] The communication unit 23 is a module that performs wireless communication with the DCM 100. In this embodiment, the communication unit 23 can communicate with the DCM 100 using the Wi-Fi standard. The communication unit 23 may also serve as a communication interface for communicating with a wide area network such as the Internet, etc. For example, the communication unit 23 may include a communication module for performing cellular communication.

[0064] The input / output unit 24 is a unit that accepts input operations performed by the user and presents information to the user. The input / output unit 24 is, for example, composed of a touch panel display. The input / output unit 24 may be composed of a liquid crystal display and its control means, and a touch panel and its control means.

[0065] Next, a process of executing remote parking by the user terminal 20 interacting with the parking ECU 200A will be described. Fig. 7 is a flow diagram showing an outline of the process. The illustrated flow starts when an operation to request remote parking is performed by the user terminal 20.

[0066] First, in step S11, the user terminal 20 transmits a request to the DCM 100 to start remote parking. If the DCM 100 is operating in client mode, it cannot directly accept requests from the user terminal 20. Therefore, in this step, communication between the user terminal 20 and the DCM 100 is performed via a wide area network such as the Internet. If the DCM 100 is operating in server mode, the processes of steps S11 to S12 may be omitted.

[0067] Upon receiving the request, the DCM 100 switches its operation mode to server mode and starts waiting for a connection from the user terminal in step S12, at which point the existing connection to the local network is disconnected.

[0068] Next, in step S13A, the user terminal 20 issues a connection request to the DCM 100, and in step S13B, a direct connection via Wi-Fi is initiated. Also, a communication path is established between the user terminal 20 and the parking ECU 200A via the DCM 100, and a start request is transmitted to the parking ECU 200A (step S14).

[0069] In step S15, the parking ECU 200A recognizes a place where the vehicle 10 is to be parked and generates a necessary trajectory. For example, the parking ECU 200A (parking control unit 2011) recognizes a space where the vehicle should park based on sensor data acquired from a distance sensor and an image sensor included in the sensor group 300. The space into which the vehicle should be parked may be recognized based on an instruction transmitted from the user terminal 20. For example, the parking ECU 200A may transmit an image of the periphery of the vehicle, acquired by an image sensor, to the user terminal 20, and the user may specify the space into which the vehicle 10 should be parked on the image. Next, the parking ECU 200A generates a trajectory for entering the space. The trajectory may include a turn. When the process is completed, the parking control unit 2011 transmits a preparation completion notification to the user terminal 20.

[0070] In step S16, the parking control unit 2011 moves the vehicle 10 based on an instruction from the user terminal 20. In this step, the user terminal 20 periodically transmits a movement instruction to the parking ECU 200A. The parking ECU 200A moves the vehicle on the condition that the movement instruction is periodically received. As a result, the vehicle 10 moves along the determined trajectory.

[0071] FIG. 8 is an example of a GUI provided on the user terminal 20. In this example, when the user continues to press a button (reference numeral 801), a movement instruction is periodically (for example, every 100 milliseconds) transmitted to the parking ECU 200A. The parking control unit 2011 moves the vehicle 10 while the movement instruction is periodically received, and stops the vehicle 10 when the reception of the movement instruction is interrupted. This allows the user to confirm safety. Note that, although the example illustrates a mode in which the button is continuously pressed, the operation mode is not limited to this as long as the user's intention can be confirmed. For example, a movement instruction may be transmitted when the user continues to swipe a predetermined area on the screen.

[0072] The parking ECU 200A transmits sensor data relating to the situation of the vehicle 10 to the user terminal 20. The sensor data may include, for example, images captured by an on-board camera and distance information captured by a distance sensor. This makes it possible to output, for example, images of the area around the vehicle 10 and distance information on the user terminal 20.

[0073] When the parking ECU 200A detects that the vehicle 10 has entered a predetermined position, a parking completion notification is transmitted to the user terminal 20 (step S17). When the user performs an operation to end the remote parking, an end request is transmitted from the user terminal 20 to the DCM 100 (step S18). In addition, the DCM 100 ends the wireless connection with the user terminal 20 and returns the mode to the client mode.

[0074] On the other hand, as described above, there are cases where remote parking is initiated after the vehicle 10 arrives at a predetermined location (for example, a home parking lot). In such a case, if the DCM 100 connects to an access point, the DCM 100 must disconnect from the home network and reconnect to the user terminal 20. In other words, a problem occurs in that the connection to the user terminal 20 cannot be made immediately, resulting in a waiting time.

[0075] Therefore, the DCM 100 according to this embodiment switches to server mode in advance so as not to automatically connect to an access point. Furthermore, after the vehicle 10 has stopped, the DCM 100 switches to the client mode on the condition that the use of the remote parking function has ended or the connection standby from the user terminal 20 has timed out.

[0076] 9 is a flowchart of the process executed by the DCM 100 and the parking ECU 200A. The process shown in the figure is started by the DCM 100 when the vehicle 10 starts to travel. However, the timing to start the process is not limited to this as long as the travel system of the vehicle 10 is activated.

[0077] First, in step S21, the wireless connection control unit 1011 starts waiting for a connection from the user terminal 20. Specifically, the wireless connection control unit 1011 switches from the client mode to the server mode and starts waiting for a connection. Next, in step S22, the wireless connection control unit 1011 determines whether or not the vehicle 10 has stopped. If the determination here is affirmative, the process proceeds to step S23. If the determination here is negative, the process waits until the vehicle 10 has stopped.

[0078] In step S23, the wireless connection control unit 1011 determines whether or not there has been a connection request from the user terminal 20. If the determination here is negative, the process proceeds to step S28. If the determination here is positive, the process proceeds to step S24.

[0079] In step S24, the wireless connection control unit 1011 accepts the connection from the user terminal 20 and establishes a connection with the user terminal 20. This step corresponds to steps S13A to S14 in FIG.

[0080] In step S25, the parking ECU 200A executes the remote parking process. In this step, the processes described in steps S15 and S16 in FIG. In step S26, it is determined whether parking has been completed. If parking has been completed, the process proceeds to step S27. If parking has not been completed, the process proceeds to step S25 and continues.

[0081] In step S27, the wireless connection control unit 1011 starts a connection to the local network. Specifically, the wireless connection control unit 1011 switches from server mode to client mode and Start searching for and connecting to the endpoint.

[0082] If the determination in step S23 is negative, the process proceeds to step S28, where it is determined whether the connection request from the user terminal 20 has timed out. If a timeout has not occurred, the process returns to step S23. If a timeout has occurred, the process proceeds to step S27. That is, if a predetermined time has passed without remote parking being started, the wireless connection control unit 1011 starts a connection to the local network.

[0083] As described above, in the vehicle system according to the first embodiment, the DCM 100 suppresses connection to a predetermined access point at least until a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the vehicle stopped. This makes it possible to immediately accept a connection request from the user terminal 20, and to quickly provide the remote parking function.

[0084] (Modification of the first embodiment) In the first embodiment, the DCM 100 switches to the server mode in advance and waits for a connection from the user terminal 20. However, the DCM 100 may switch to the server mode when it detects a sign that the vehicle 10 is about to be parked. For example, when it is detected that the vehicle 10 has entered an area corresponding to a predetermined parking lot, the mode may be switched to the server mode. The area corresponding to the predetermined parking lot is, for example, an area where remote parking is expected to be used. The area may be set by the user or may be automatically determined based on the past use history of remote parking.

[0085] According to this configuration, while the vehicle 10 is traveling, communication can be performed via a local network (for example, a road-to-vehicle communication network provided in the vicinity of an intersection). The switching to the server mode may be performed at any other timing as long as it is performed at least before the vehicle 10 comes to a stop.

[0086] (Second embodiment) In the first embodiment, the DCM 100 switches to the server mode before the vehicle 10 stops. In contrast, in the second embodiment, the DCM 100 switches to the server mode depending on whether a pre-registered access point is detected.

[0087] The pre-registered access points are access points with which there is a possibility of wireless connection conflicts, such as access points that can be connected from a parking lot where a user uses the remote parking function. Such access points may be automatically registered based on the parking history of the vehicle 10 (or the usage history of the remote parking function) and the connection history to the access points.

[0088] 10 is a flowchart of the process executed by the DCM 100 and the parking ECU 200A in the second embodiment. The process shown in the figure is started when the DCM 100 detects an available access point.

[0089] In step S20A, wireless connection control unit 1011 acquires the identifier of the access point. For example, if the access point uses the wireless LAN standard, DCM 100 can acquire the SSID (Service Set Identifier). Next, in step S20B, the wireless connection control unit 1011 determines whether the acquired SSID is a pre-registered SSID. If the SSID is the same as that registered in the first embodiment, the process proceeds to step S21, and the same process as that in the first embodiment is started. If the acquired SSID is not the same as that registered in the first embodiment, the process proceeds to step S27, and the connection to the access point is started.

[0090] As described above, the switching to the server mode may be performed when an access point for which automatic connection should be suppressed is detected. In other words, the suppression of automatic connection may be started when an access point for which automatic connection should be suppressed is detected.

[0091] (Variation) The above-described embodiment is merely an example, and the present disclosure can be modified and implemented as appropriate within the scope that does not deviate from the gist of the disclosure. For example, the processes and means described in this disclosure can be freely combined and implemented as long as no technical contradiction occurs.

[0092] 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.

[0093] 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. Examples of non-transitory computer-readable storage media include 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]

[0094] 10. Vehicle 20. User terminal 100 DCM 200A Parking ECU 101, 201, 21... Control unit 102,202,22...Storage section 103,203,23···Communications Department 24...Input / output section 110 First communication module 120 Second communication module 130 GPS antenna 140···GPS module

Claims

1. An information processing device that controls wireless communication performed by a vehicle, a control unit that, when a predetermined access point is detected, establishes a wireless connection with the predetermined access point; the control unit suppresses wireless connection to the predetermined access point at least during a first period from when the vehicle stops until a predetermined timing arrives; the control unit is configured to be capable of wirelessly connecting with a user terminal, and to accept a wireless connection from the user terminal during the first period; When the control unit is connected to the user terminal, the control unit performs remote parking control of the vehicle based on a command transmitted from the user terminal. Information processing device.

2. The first period expires when the remote parking control of the vehicle ends. The information processing device according to claim 1 .

3. The first period expires when the remote parking control of the vehicle ends or when acceptance of the wireless connection from the user terminal times out. The information processing device according to claim 1 .

4. The control unit is operable in either a client mode for making a wireless connection to another device or a server mode for accepting a wireless connection from another device. The information processing device according to claim 1 .

5. the control unit operates in the server mode during the first period; The information processing device according to claim 4 .

6. the control unit transitions to the client mode after the first period has expired. The information processing device according to claim 5 .

7. the control unit accepts a wireless connection from a user terminal while operating in the server mode; The information processing device according to claim 4 .

8. the control unit stores an identifier of the predetermined access point; when an access point other than the predetermined access point is detected, a connection to the access point is made without waiting for the first period to expire. The information processing device according to claim 1 .

9. The identifier is an SSID (Service Set Identifier), The information processing device according to claim 8 .

10. An information processing device that controls wireless communication performed by a vehicle, a control unit that, when a predetermined access point is detected, establishes a wireless connection with the predetermined access point; the control unit suppresses wireless connection to the predetermined access point at least during a first period from when the vehicle stops until a predetermined timing arrives; the control unit stores an identifier of the predetermined access point; when an access point other than the predetermined access point is detected, a connection to the access point is made without waiting for the first period to expire. Information processing device.

11. An information processing device that controls wireless communication performed by a vehicle, a control unit that, when detecting any one of a plurality of access points, establishes a wireless connection with the detected access point; the control unit suppresses wireless connection to a first access point included in the plurality of access points during a first period from a first timing at which the first access point is detected to a predetermined second timing. Information processing device.

12. the control unit is configured to be capable of wirelessly connecting with a user terminal, and to accept a wireless connection from the user terminal during the first period; The information processing device according to claim 11.

13. When the control unit is connected to the user terminal, the control unit performs remote parking control of the vehicle based on a command transmitted from the user terminal. The information processing device according to claim 12.

14. The first period expires when the remote parking control of the vehicle ends. The information processing device according to claim 13.

15. the control unit stores an identifier of the first access point; when an access point other than the first access point is detected, connecting to the access point without waiting for the first period to expire; The information processing device according to any one of claims 11 to 14.

16. The identifier is an SSID (Service Set Identifier), The information processing device according to claim 15.

17. An information processing method executed by an information processing device that controls wireless communication performed by a vehicle, When a predetermined access point is detected, establishing a wireless connection with the predetermined access point; suppressing wireless connection to the predetermined access point at least during a first period from when the vehicle stops until a predetermined timing arrives; Including, the information processing device is configured to be capable of wirelessly connecting with a user terminal, and accepts a wireless connection from the user terminal during the first period; When the information processing device is connected to the user terminal, the information processing device performs remote parking control of the vehicle based on a command transmitted from the user terminal. Information processing methods.

18. An information processing method executed by an information processing device that controls wireless communication performed by a vehicle, When a predetermined access point is detected, establishing a wireless connection with the predetermined access point; suppressing wireless connection to the predetermined access point at least during a first period from when the vehicle stops until a predetermined timing arrives; Including, the information processing device stores an identifier of the predetermined access point; when an access point other than the predetermined access point is detected, a connection to the access point is made without waiting for the first period to expire. Information processing methods.

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