Refueling system, refueling method, and refueling program

Abstract

To provide an oil supply system, oil supply method and oil supply program which can notify a user who performs the oil supply work in a self-service station of information about the state of a vehicle.SOLUTION: An oil supply system for supplying oil to a vehicle on the basis of an oil supply operation of a user input to an operation terminal arranged at an oil supply position comprises: a detection processing unit which detects the vehicle; an imaging processing unit which causes an imaging unit to image a prescribed area including the vehicle when the detection processing unit detects the vehicle; and a notification processing unit which causes the operation terminal to notify of vehicle information based on the photographed image captured by the imaging unit.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a refueling system, a refueling method, and a refueling program. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, self-service gas stations have become common, where users themselves fill up their vehicles with fuel by selecting a payment method (settlement method), type of fuel, amount of fuel (quantity), etc., on an operation terminal installed in the fueling lane. Conventionally, as a technology related to the fueling system, a system has been proposed that automates the opening of the fuel valve, allowing staff to engage in tasks other than refueling (see, for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2020-83422 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, at the self-service gas station, since the customer fills up the gas themselves, there are fewer opportunities for staff to check the vehicle or ask the customer about the condition of the vehicle, making it difficult for the customer to discover any abnormalities in the vehicle.

[0005] An object of the present invention is to provide a refueling system, a refueling method, and a refueling program that can notify a user performing refueling at a self-service gas station of information regarding the state of a vehicle. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A refueling system according to an embodiment of the present invention is a refueling system that refuels a vehicle based on a user's refueling operation input into an operation terminal located at a refueling location, and includes a detection processing unit that detects the vehicle, an imaging processing unit that causes an imaging unit to capture an image of a predetermined area including the vehicle when the vehicle is detected by the detection processing unit, and a notification processing unit that causes the operation terminal to notify the operation terminal of vehicle information based on the image captured by the imaging unit.

[0007] A refueling method according to an embodiment of the present invention is a refueling method for refueling a vehicle based on a user's refueling operation input into an operation terminal located at a refueling location, and includes the following steps: a detection step in which one or more processors detect the vehicle; an imaging step in which, when the vehicle is detected in the detection step, an imaging unit captures an image of a predetermined area including the vehicle; and a notification step in which the operation terminal is notified of vehicle information based on the image captured by the imaging unit.

[0008] A refueling program according to an embodiment of the present invention is a refueling program that refuels a vehicle based on a user's refueling operation input into an operation terminal located at a refueling location, and is a program that causes one or more processors to execute the following steps: a detection step for detecting the vehicle; an imaging step for, when the vehicle is detected in the detection step, causing an imaging unit to capture an image of a predetermined area including the vehicle; and a notification step for causing the operation terminal to notify the operation terminal of vehicle information based on the image captured by the imaging unit. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a refueling system, a refueling method, and a refueling program that can notify a user performing refueling operations at a self-service gas station of information regarding the state of a vehicle. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a gas station to which a fuel supply system according to an embodiment of the present invention is applied. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram showing a schematic configuration of a fuel supply system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3A] FIG. 3A is a diagram showing an example of stored price information used in a fuel supply system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3B] FIG. 3B is a diagram showing an example of vehicle detection information used in the fuel supply system according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of screen transitions of the refueling operation terminal according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5A] FIG. 5A is a diagram showing an example of a display screen of the refueling operation terminal according to the first configuration example of the present invention. [Figure 5B] FIG. 5B is a diagram showing an example of a display screen of the refueling operation terminal according to the first configuration example of the present invention. [Figure 5C] FIG. 5C is a diagram showing an example of a display screen of the refueling operation terminal according to the first configuration example of the present invention. [Figure 6A] FIG. 6A is a diagram showing an example of a display screen of the refueling operation terminal according to the first configuration example of the present invention. [Figure 6B] FIG. 6B is a diagram showing an example of a display screen of the refueling operation terminal according to the first configuration example of the present invention. [Figure 6C] FIG. 6C is a diagram showing an example of a display screen of the refueling operation terminal according to the first configuration example of the present invention. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a flowchart for explaining an example of the procedure of the refueling process executed in the refueling system according to the first configuration example of the present invention. [Figure 8A] FIG. 8A is a diagram showing an example of a display screen of the refueling operation terminal according to the first configuration example of the present invention. [Figure 8B] FIG. 8B is a diagram showing an example of a display screen of the refueling operation terminal according to the first configuration example of the present invention. [Figure 8C] FIG. 8C is a diagram showing an example of a display screen of the refueling operation terminal according to the first configuration example of the present invention. [Figure 9A] FIG. 9A is a diagram showing an example of a display screen of a refueling operation terminal according to the second configuration example of the present invention. [Figure 9B] FIG. 9B is a diagram showing an example of a display screen of the refueling operation terminal according to the second configuration example of the present invention. [Figure 9C] FIG. 9C is a diagram showing an example of a display screen of the refueling operation terminal according to the second configuration example of the present invention. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of screen transitions of the refueling operation terminal according to the second configuration example of the present invention. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a flowchart for explaining an example of the procedure of the refueling process executed in the refueling system according to the second configuration example of the present invention. [Figure 12A] FIG. 12A is a diagram showing an example of a display screen of a refueling operation terminal according to a third configuration example of the present invention. [Figure 12B] FIG. 12B is a diagram showing an example of a display screen of the refueling operation terminal according to the third configuration example of the present invention. [Figure 12C] FIG. 12C is a diagram showing an example of a display screen of the refueling operation terminal according to the third configuration example of the present invention. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a display screen of a refueling operation terminal according to the third configuration example of the present invention. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of screen transitions of the refueling operation terminal according to the third configuration example of the present invention. [Figure 15A] FIG. 15A is a diagram showing an example of a display screen of a refueling operation terminal according to the third configuration example of the present invention. [Figure 15B] FIG. 15B is a diagram showing an example of a display screen of the refueling operation terminal according to the third configuration example of the present invention. [Figure 16A] FIG. 16A is a diagram showing an example of a display screen of a refueling operation terminal according to the third configuration example of the present invention. [Figure 16B] FIG. 16B is a diagram showing an example of a display screen of the refueling operation terminal according to the third configuration example of the present invention. [Figure 16C] FIG. 16C is a diagram showing an example of a display screen of the refueling operation terminal according to the third configuration example of the present invention. [Figure 17]FIG. 17 is a flowchart for explaining an example of the procedure of the refueling process executed in the refueling system according to the third configuration example of the present invention. [Figure 18A] FIG. 18A is a diagram showing an example of a display screen of a refueling operation terminal according to the fourth configuration example of the present invention. [Figure 18B] FIG. 18B is a diagram showing an example of a display screen of the refueling operation terminal according to the fourth configuration example of the present invention. [Figure 18C] FIG. 18C is a diagram showing an example of a display screen of the refueling operation terminal according to the fourth configuration example of the present invention. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a diagram showing an example of a display screen of a refueling operation terminal according to the fifth configuration example of the present invention. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is a flowchart for explaining an example of the procedure of the refueling process executed in the refueling system according to the fifth configuration example of the present invention. [Figure 21A] FIG. 21A is a diagram showing an example of a display screen of a refueling operation terminal according to the sixth configuration example of the present invention. [Figure 21B] FIG. 21B is a diagram showing an example of a display screen of the refueling operation terminal according to the sixth configuration example of the present invention. [Figure 21C] FIG. 21C is a diagram showing an example of a display screen of the refueling operation terminal according to the sixth configuration example of the present invention. [Figure 22] FIG. 22 is a diagram showing an example of screen transitions of the refueling operation terminal according to the sixth configuration example of the present invention. [Figure 23] FIG. 23 is a flowchart for explaining an example of the procedure of the refueling process executed in the refueling system according to the sixth configuration example of the present invention. [Figure 24A] FIG. 24A is a diagram showing an example of a display screen of a refueling operation terminal according to the seventh configuration example of the present invention. [Figure 24B] FIG. 24B is a diagram showing an example of a display screen of the refueling operation terminal according to the seventh configuration example of the present invention. [Figure 24C] FIG. 24C is a diagram showing an example of a display screen of the refueling operation terminal according to the seventh configuration example of the present invention. [Figure 25]FIG. 25 is a flowchart for explaining an example of the procedure of the refueling process executed in the refueling system according to the seventh configuration example of the present invention. [Figure 26] FIG. 26 is a flowchart for explaining an example of the procedure of the refueling process executed in the refueling system according to the seventh configuration example of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that the following embodiment is an example of the present invention, and does not limit the technical scope of the present invention.

[0012] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a fuel supply system 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The fuel supply system 10 is a system that supplies fuel to a vehicle based on a user's fuel supply operation input into a fuel supply operation terminal 1 disposed at a fuel supply location (fuel supply lane). The fuel supply system 10 includes a fuel supply operation terminal 1 (fuel supply operation terminal 1A, 1B, 1C, etc.), a fuel dispenser 2 (fuel dispenser 2A, 2B, 2C, etc.), and a self-service console (hereinafter referred to as an in-store SSC 3) disposed within a store. The fuel supply system 10 is applied to a self-service gas station (hereinafter referred to as a "gas station") that supplies fuel to a vehicle based on a user's fuel supply operation. FIG. 1 schematically shows the configuration of a specific gas station GS1. The gas station GS1 has six fuel supply lanes R1 to R6 installed as fuel supply spaces for vehicles, and each fuel supply lane is equipped with a fuel supply operation terminal 1 and a fuel dispenser 2 for supplying fuel to a vehicle parked in the fuel lane. For example, a fuel supply operation terminal 1A and a fuel dispenser 2A are installed in a fuel supply lane R1 to supply fuel to a vehicle stopped in the fuel supply lane R1. The fuel supply operation terminal 1 is an example of an operation terminal of the present invention. The fuel supply lane is an example of a fuel supply location of the present invention.

[0013] Gas station GS1 also has a store (office) where various procedures can be carried out, and inside the store are installed an in-store SSC 3, a POS terminal (not shown), etc. The in-store SSC 3 and the POS terminal may be an integrated device (information processing device, server). Staff are stationed inside the store to perform various clerical tasks and procedures. Outside the store are staff who guide customers' vehicles and perform specific tasks such as repairs (maintenance) and car washes in the maintenance area MA. Gas station GS1 also has a camera Ca installed, which detects vehicles, customers, etc. There may be one camera Ca or multiple cameras Ca. The camera Ca is an example of the imaging unit of the present invention.

[0014] As shown in Figure 2, the fuel supply operation terminals 1 and fuel supply machines 2 at each fuel supply lane are connected to one another via a network N1. Each fuel supply operation terminal 1 and each fuel supply machine 2 is also connected to an in-store SSC 3 via a network N2. The in-store SSC 3 and camera Ca are also connected to one another via a network N3. The networks N1, N2, and N3 are, for example, SS-LAN, wired LAN, or wireless LAN.

[0015] [Fuel Tanker 2] As shown in FIG. 2, the fuel dispenser 2 includes a control unit 21, a storage unit 22, a fuel dispenser nozzle 23, a nozzle sensor 24, a fuel dispenser pump 25, a communication unit 26, and the like.

[0016] The communication unit 26 is a communication interface that connects the fuel dispenser 2 to the network N1 via a wired or wireless connection and performs data communication between the fuel dispenser operation terminal 1 and the in-store SSC 3 via the network N1 in accordance with a predetermined communication protocol.

[0017] The storage unit 22 is a non-volatile storage unit such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), an SSD (Solid State Drive), or a flash memory that stores various types of information. The storage unit 22 stores a control program for causing the control unit 21 to execute various processes. For example, the control program is non-temporarily recorded on a computer-readable recording medium such as a CD or a DVD, and is read by a reading device (not shown) such as a CD drive or a DVD drive provided in the fuel tanker 2 and stored in the storage unit 22. The control program may be distributed from a cloud server and stored in the storage unit 22. Alternatively, a master storage medium on which the control program is stored using the above method may be copied using a duplicator or the like and stored in the storage unit 22.

[0018] The fuel nozzle 23 is inserted into the fuel filler opening of the vehicle to fill the vehicle with fuel. For example, when the fuel pump 25 is operating and a user presses the lever on the fuel nozzle 23, gasoline is filled into the vehicle from the fuel nozzle 23. The nozzle sensor 24 is a sensor that detects when the fuel nozzle 23 is removed from the storage section of the fuel dispenser 2 that stores the fuel nozzle 23.

[0019] The control unit 21 has control devices such as a CPU, a ROM, and a RAM. The CPU is a processor that executes various types of arithmetic processing. The ROM is a non-volatile storage unit that pre-stores control programs such as a BIOS and an OS that cause the CPU to execute various types of processing. The RAM is a volatile or non-volatile storage unit that stores various types of information and is used as a temporary storage memory (work area) for the various types of processing executed by the CPU. The control unit 21 controls the fuel tanker 2 by having the CPU execute various control programs pre-stored in the ROM or the storage unit 22.

[0020] Specifically, the control unit 21 includes various processing units such as a reception processing unit 211 and a request processing unit 212. The control unit 21 functions as the various processing units by executing various processes in accordance with the control program using the CPU. Some or all of the processing units included in the control unit 21 may be configured with electronic circuits. The control program may be a program for causing multiple processors to function as the various processing units.

[0021] The reception processing unit 211 accepts a refueling operation by the user. Specifically, the reception processing unit 211 accepts an operation by the user to remove the fuel filler nozzle 23 from the storage unit. For example, the reception processing unit 211 accepts the refueling operation by acquiring a detection signal from the nozzle sensor 24. For example, the reception processing unit 211 receives an ON signal from the nozzle sensor 24 when the fuel filler nozzle 23 is stored in the storage unit, and receives an OFF signal from the nozzle sensor 24 when the fuel filler nozzle 23 is removed from the storage unit. When the reception processing unit 211 receives the OFF signal, it accepts the user's operation to remove the fuel filler nozzle 23.

[0022] The request processing unit 212 outputs the request for refueling permission. Specifically, the request processing unit 212 outputs the request for refueling permission when the reception processing unit 211 receives the removal operation by the user. For example, when the reception processing unit 211 receives the removal operation of the refueling nozzle 23 by the user, the request processing unit 212 outputs the request for refueling permission to the in-store SSC 3. Note that the request processing unit 212 may also output the request for refueling permission to the refueling operation terminal 1.

[0023] Furthermore, when a staff member grants permission to refuel in response to the request for permission to refuel (when permission to refuel is obtained from the in-store SSC 3), the control unit 21 operates the refueling pump 25 to permit the user to perform the refueling operation. When the control unit 21 detects the on signal from the nozzle sensor 24 as a result of the user completing the refueling operation and storing the refueling nozzle 23 in the storage unit, it terminates the refueling process. The refueling machine 2 may have a known configuration.

[0024] The staff member is qualified to confirm the safety of the refueling operation of the user and to grant the refueling permission. The staff member who has the qualification may be limited.

[0025] [Fueling operation terminal 1] 2, the refueling operation terminal 1 includes a control unit 11, a storage unit 12, an operation display unit 13, a reading unit 14, and a communication unit 15. The refueling operation terminal 1 may be an information processing device such as a personal computer.

[0026] The communication unit 15 is a communication interface for connecting the refueling operation terminal 1 to the network N1 by wire or wirelessly and for executing data communication in accordance with a predetermined communication protocol with the refueling machine 2 and the in-store SSC 3 via the network N1. The communication unit 15 may also be capable of executing data communication in accordance with a predetermined communication protocol with a payment server (not shown) via the network N2.

[0027] The operation display unit 13 is a user interface that includes a display unit such as a liquid crystal display or an organic EL display that displays various information, and an operation unit such as a touch panel, a mouse, or a keyboard that accepts operations.

[0028] The reading unit 14 is a reading device for reading credit cards. Specifically, a payment card such as a credit card or a prepaid card loaded with cash is inserted into the reading unit 14, and the reading unit 14 reads the card information of the payment card. For example, when a user inserts a credit card into the reading unit 14, the reading unit 14 performs a process of reading the card information of the credit card (reading process). If the credit card is authenticated by the payment server based on the read card information, the reading unit 14 ejects (returns) the credit card based on an instruction from the control unit 11. The reading unit 14 may also read payment information from an information processing device (e.g., a smartphone) that can use electronic money.

[0029] The reading unit 14 may have a function to read a medium containing information about special offers for the usage fee (fuel amount). For example, the reading unit 14 may have a function to read special offer information about discounts from a coupon code (two-dimensional code), a coupon number, a point card, or the like.

[0030] The storage unit 12 is a non-volatile storage unit such as an HDD, SSD, or flash memory that stores various types of information. The storage unit 12 stores a control program, such as a refueling program, for causing the control unit 11 to execute the refueling process (see FIG. 7, etc.), which will be described later. For example, the refueling program is non-temporarily recorded on a computer-readable recording medium such as a CD or DVD, and is read by a reading device (not shown), such as a CD drive or DVD drive, provided in the refueling operation terminal 1 and stored in the storage unit 12. The refueling program may be distributed from a cloud server and stored in the storage unit 12. Alternatively, a master storage medium on which the control program is stored using the above method may be copied using a duplicator or the like and stored in the storage unit 12.

[0031] The storage unit 12 also stores data such as price information D1 according to payment method (payment type) and oil type. Fig. 3A is a diagram showing an example of price information D1. The price information D1 stores the price (unit price per liter) of each oil type: regular, high-octane, and diesel for each payment type. Here, "cash," "credit card," and "prepaid card" are registered as the payment types.

[0032] In another embodiment, some or all of the information such as the price information D1 may be stored in a server accessible from the fueling operation terminal 1. In this case, the control unit 11 of the fueling operation terminal 1 may acquire the information from the server and execute various processes such as the fueling process described below. The price information D1 may also be stored in the memory unit 32 of the in-store SSC 3.

[0033] The control unit 11 has control devices such as a CPU, a ROM, and a RAM. The CPU is a processor that executes various arithmetic operations. The ROM is a non-volatile storage unit that pre-stores control programs such as a BIOS and an OS that cause the CPU to execute various operations. The RAM is a volatile or non-volatile storage unit that stores various information and is used as a temporary storage memory (work area) for the various operations executed by the CPU. The control unit 11 controls the refueling operation terminal 1 by having the CPU execute various control programs pre-stored in the ROM or the storage unit 12.

[0034] The control unit 11 accepts the user's refueling operation and transmits the various types of information received to the in-store SSC 3 (or POS terminal). The in-store SSC 3 transmits a refueling permit to the refueling machine 2 based on the various types of information acquired from the refueling operation terminal 1. Upon acquiring the refueling permit from the in-store SSC 3, the refueling machine 2 operates the refueling pump 25 and permits the user to perform the refueling operation.

[0035] Here, an example of the flow of a refueling operation performed by a user is shown. FIG. 4 shows a specific example of screen transitions on the display screen displayed on the operation display unit 13 of the refueling operation terminal 1. First, when the user selects credit card as the payment method for the refueling fee on the reception screen (see FIG. 4(a)), the control unit 11 displays a guide screen (see FIG. 4(b)) prompting the user to insert the credit card. When the user inserts the credit card into the reading unit 14 (see FIG. 2), the control unit 11 acquires the card information (credit card type, credit card number, personal information, etc.) read by the reading unit 14 and transmits the card information to the payment server. Upon receiving the card information, the payment server executes authentication processing. While the authentication processing is being executed, the control unit 11 displays a standby screen (see FIG. 4(c)). When the credit card authentication is successful, the control unit 11 ejects the credit card from the reading unit 14 and displays a guide screen (see FIG. 4(d)) prompting the user to pick up the credit card. When the user receives the credit card, the control unit 11 displays an operation screen (see FIG. 4(e)) for selecting the type of fuel. Next, the control unit 11 displays an operation screen (see FIG. 4(f)) for selecting the quantity. Then, the control unit 11 displays a confirmation screen for the refueling operation (see FIG. 4(g)). After that, the user confirms the refueling method, etc., removes the refueling nozzle 23 from the refueling machine 2, inserts it into the vehicle's fuel inlet, and performs the refueling operation (by pressing the nozzle lever). When it is detected that the user has removed the refueling nozzle 23 from the refueling machine 2, a request for refueling permission is sent to the staff member. Upon receiving the request, the staff member confirms the safety of the user's refueling operation and grants refueling permission. This causes the refueling machine 2 to execute the refueling process, allowing the user to perform the refueling operation. When the refueling operation is completed and the refueling fee is determined, the control unit 11 requests the payment server to perform the payment process, and the payment server executes the payment process for the determined refueling fee. The user can perform the refueling operation following the above-mentioned flow.

[0036] The control unit 11 includes various processing units such as a display processing unit 111 and a reception processing unit 112. The control unit 11 functions as the various processing units by executing various processes in accordance with the refueling program using the CPU. Some or all of the processing units included in the control unit 11 may be configured with electronic circuits. The refueling program may be a program that causes multiple processors to function as the various processing units.

[0037] The display processing unit 111 displays various types of information related to the refueling process on the operation display unit 13. For example, as shown in Fig. 4, the display processing unit 111 displays a reception screen, an operation screen, a guidance screen, a standby screen, and the like related to the refueling operation on the operation display unit 13. The display processing unit 111 also displays vehicle information (such as abnormality information and repair information) described below that is output from the in-store SSC 3 on the operation display unit 13.

[0038] The reception processing unit 112 accepts various refueling operations from the user. For example, the reception processing unit 112 accepts a refueling operation in which the user selects a payment method, a type of fuel, and an amount (quantity) of fuel to be refueled. The reception processing unit 112 also accepts operations such as inputting a coupon number and inputting points to be used. The reception processing unit 112 also accepts confirmation operations, cancellation operations, and the like from the user on various operation screens displayed on the operation display unit 13.

[0039] In addition to the above-described processes, the control unit 11 can also execute a payment process. For example, the control unit 11 acquires, from the reading unit 14, card information of a credit card used to pay the user's usage fee (fuel fee). The control unit 11 then transmits the acquired card information to a payment server that executes authentication processing for the credit card, requesting payment. Upon receiving the payment request, the payment server executes the authentication processing. If the authentication of the credit card is successful in the authentication processing, the payment server completes the provisional payment and transmits an authentication result (authentication success) to the refueling operation terminal 1. Furthermore, if the authentication of the credit card is unsuccessful in the authentication processing, the payment server transmits an authentication result (authentication error) to the refueling operation terminal 1. Upon receiving the authentication result, the control unit 11 ejects the credit card from the reading unit 14. For example, if the authentication of the credit card is successful in the authentication processing, the control unit 11 ejects the credit card from the reading unit 14.

[0040] [In-store SSC3] 2, the in-store SSC 3 includes a control unit 31, a storage unit 32, an operation display unit 33, and a communication unit 34. The in-store SSC 3 may be, for example, an information processing device such as a personal computer or a server.

[0041] The communication unit 34 is a communication interface that connects the in-store SSC 3 to the network N2 by wire or wirelessly and executes data communication in accordance with a predetermined communication protocol with the refueling operation terminal 1 and the refueling machine 2 via the network N2. The communication unit 34 is also capable of executing data communication in accordance with a predetermined communication protocol with the camera Ca via the network N3.

[0042] The operation display unit 33 is a user interface that includes a display unit such as a liquid crystal display or an organic EL display that displays various information, and an operation unit such as a touch panel, a mouse, or a keyboard that accepts operations.

[0043] The storage unit 32 is a non-volatile storage unit such as an HDD, SSD, or flash memory that stores various types of information. The storage unit 32 stores a control program, such as a refueling program, for causing the control unit 31 to execute the refueling process (see FIG. 7, etc.), which will be described later. For example, the refueling program is non-temporarily recorded on a computer-readable recording medium such as a CD or DVD, and is read by a reading device (not shown), such as a CD drive or DVD drive, provided in the in-store SSC 3 and stored in the storage unit 32. The refueling program may be distributed from a cloud server and stored in the storage unit 32. Alternatively, a master storage medium on which the control program is stored using the above method may be copied using a duplicator or the like and stored in the storage unit 32.

[0044] The storage unit 32 also stores data such as vehicle detection information D2 related to vehicles for each refueling lane. FIG. 3B is a diagram showing an example of the vehicle detection information D2. The vehicle detection information D2 stores information such as a vehicle detection flag and an abnormality detection flag for each refueling lane. The vehicle detection flag is information indicating whether or not a vehicle has been detected in the refueling lane. When a vehicle enters the refueling lane and is detected, "1" is registered in the vehicle detection flag. When no vehicle is detected in the refueling lane, "0" is registered in the vehicle detection flag. The abnormality detection flag is information indicating whether or not an abnormality has been detected in a vehicle that has entered the refueling lane. When a vehicle abnormality is detected, "1" is registered in the abnormality detection flag. When no vehicle abnormality is detected, "0" is registered in the abnormality detection flag.

[0045] The control unit 31 detects a vehicle based on an image captured by the camera Ca, analyzes the image, and determines whether or not there is an abnormality in the detected vehicle. The control unit 31 registers the vehicle detection result and the abnormality determination result in vehicle detection information D2.

[0046] In another embodiment, some or all of the information such as the vehicle detection information D2 may be stored in a server accessible from the in-store SSC 3. In this case, the control unit 31 of the in-store SSC 3 may acquire the information from the server and execute various processes such as the refueling process (see FIG. 7, etc.) described below. The vehicle detection information D2 may also be stored in the memory unit 12 of the refueling operation terminal 1.

[0047] The control unit 31 has control devices such as a CPU, a ROM, and a RAM. The CPU is a processor that executes various arithmetic operations. The ROM is a non-volatile storage unit that pre-stores control programs such as a BIOS and an OS that cause the CPU to execute various processes. The RAM is a volatile or non-volatile storage unit that stores various information and is used as a temporary storage memory (work area) for the various processes executed by the CPU. The control unit 31 controls the in-store SSC 3 by having the CPU execute various control programs pre-stored in the ROM or the storage unit 32.

[0048] The control unit 31 acquires various information according to the user's operation from the refueling operation terminal 1. Furthermore, the control unit 31 requests permission for refueling from the staff based on the various information acquired from the refueling operation terminal 1, and transmits the permission for refueling to the refueling machine 2 upon receiving permission from the staff.

[0049] Specifically, the control unit 31 includes various processing units such as a refueling processing unit 311, a detection processing unit 312, an image capturing processing unit 313, a notification processing unit 314, and a determination processing unit 315. The control unit 31 functions as the various processing units by executing various processes in accordance with the refueling program using the CPU. Some or all of the processing units included in the control unit 31 may be configured with electronic circuits. The refueling program may be a program for causing multiple processors to function as the various processing units.

[0050] The refueling processing unit 311 executes refueling processing for a vehicle. Specifically, the refueling processing unit 311 acquires the request for refueling permission output from the refueling machine 2. For example, the refueling processing unit 311 can acquire the request for refueling permission from each of six refueling machines 2 installed at gas station GS1. In this embodiment, for example, when a user removes the refueling nozzle 23 from the refueling machine 2A in the refueling lane R1 (see FIG. 1), the refueling processing unit 311 acquires the request for refueling permission from the refueling machine 2A in the refueling lane R1.

[0051] When the refueling processing unit 311 receives the request for refueling permission, it requests the staff for refueling permission. The request for refueling permission includes information on the type of fuel (such as "high-octane gasoline") and information on the refueling lane R1.

[0052] When the refueling processing unit 311 receives the refueling permission from the staff member, it confirms the safety of the user's refueling operation and permits the refueling of the vehicle. When the staff member gives the refueling permission at the in-store SSC 3, the refueling processing unit 311 acquires the refueling permission from the staff member and transmits the refueling permission to the refueling machine 2 (here, refueling machine 2A) that requested the refueling permission. When the refueling machine 2A acquires the refueling permission from the in-store SSC 3, it operates the refueling pump 25 and permits the user to perform the refueling operation.

[0053] In the above-described refueling process, the control unit 11 further executes a notification process for notifying the refueling operation terminal 1 of vehicle information based on a captured image of the vehicle. Specific examples (first to seventh configuration examples) of the notification process will be described below. Note that the description of the configuration common to each configuration example will be omitted as appropriate.

[0054] [First configuration example] A first configuration example of the notification process will be described.

[0055] The detection processing unit 312 detects a vehicle entering a fuel lane. Specifically, the detection processing unit 312 detects a vehicle based on an image captured by the camera Ca. For example, when a vehicle enters the fuel lane R1, the detection processing unit 312 detects the vehicle based on an image captured by the camera Ca capturing an image of a predetermined area including the fuel lane R1. When the detection processing unit 312 detects a vehicle, it registers a vehicle detection flag "1" in association with the fuel lane R1 in the vehicle detection information D2 (see FIG. 3B). The detection processing unit 312 is an example of a detection processing unit of the present invention.

[0056] When a vehicle is detected by the detection processing unit 312, the imaging processing unit 313 causes the camera Ca to capture an image of a predetermined area including the vehicle. For example, when the detection processing unit 312 detects a vehicle entering the fueling lane R1, the imaging processing unit 313 causes the camera Ca installed corresponding to the fueling lane R1 to start capturing an image of the fueling lane R1. As a result, the camera Ca starts capturing video of the fueling lane R1.

[0057] Furthermore, when the vehicle enters the fuel lane R1 and stops, the image capturing processing unit 313 causes the camera Ca to stop capturing imagery of the fuel lane R1. This causes the camera Ca to stop capturing video of the fuel lane R1. In this way, the image capturing processing unit 313 causes the camera Ca to continuously capture video of the vehicle from the time the vehicle starts to enter the fuel lane R1 until the time the vehicle stops in the fuel lane R1. The image capturing processing unit 313 acquires video data captured by the camera Ca from the camera Ca. The image capturing processing unit 313 is an example of an image capturing processing unit of the present invention.

[0058] The notification processing unit 314 notifies the refueling operation terminal 1 of vehicle information based on the captured images taken by the camera Ca. Specifically, the notification processing unit 314 displays (plays) on the operation display unit 13 of the refueling operation terminal 1 images (videos) of the refueling lane R1 continuously captured by the camera Ca from the time the vehicle starts to enter the refueling lane R1 until the vehicle stops in the refueling lane R1.

[0059] Furthermore, the notification processing unit 314 causes the refueling operation terminal 1 to notify the vehicle information from the time the vehicle stops in the refueling lane R1 until refueling of the vehicle is completed. As a result, for example, as shown in FIGS. 5A to 5C, the state of the vehicle is played back on the display screen displayed on the operation display unit 13 of the refueling operation terminal 1. FIGS. 5A to 5C show a display screen while the user is refueling the vehicle, and a video shot from the time the vehicle starts to enter the refueling lane R1 until the time the vehicle stops is played back on the display screen. Note that the video shot from the time the vehicle starts to enter the refueling lane R1 until the time the vehicle stops is an example of vehicle information of the present invention.

[0060] 5A to 5C, the user can see that the rear lamps (e.g., brake lamps) of the vehicle are working properly. In contrast, in the example shown in Figures 6A to 6C, the left rear lamp of the vehicle is not working, so the user can see that the left rear lamp is malfunctioning.

[0061] In this way, the notification processing unit 314 can notify the user performing the refueling operation of the captured video, thereby notifying the user of information regarding the state of the vehicle. The notification processing unit 314 is an example of the notification processing unit of the present invention.

[0062] [Fueling process in the first configuration example] Hereinafter, an example of the procedure of the refueling process of the first configuration example executed in the refueling system 10 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0063] The refueling system 10 can execute the refueling process in parallel in response to access from each refueling operation terminal 1 and each refueling machine 2. The present invention can be understood as a refueling method that executes one or more steps included in the refueling process. One or more steps included in the refueling process described herein may be omitted as appropriate. The steps in the refueling process may be executed in a different order as long as the same operational effect is achieved. While the present description uses an example in which the control unit 31 of the in-store SSC 3 executes each step in the refueling process, other embodiments may also include a refueling method in which one or more processors execute each step in the refueling process in a distributed manner. The following description uses an example in which a user parks a vehicle in a refueling lane R1 and operates the refueling operation terminal 1A of the refueling lane R1 to perform the refueling operation. The matters described in this paragraph also apply to the second to seventh configuration examples described below.

[0064] 7, the control unit 31 of the in-store SSC 3 determines whether a vehicle has been detected in the fueling lane R1. If the control unit 31 detects a vehicle (S11: Yes), the control unit 31 shifts the process to step S12. The control unit 31 waits until a vehicle is detected (S11: No).

[0065] In step S12, the control unit 31 causes the camera Ca, which has an imaging range including the fuel filling lane R1, to start imaging, so that the camera Ca starts imaging when the vehicle begins to enter the fuel filling lane R1.

[0066] Next, in step S13, the control unit 31 determines whether the vehicle entering the fuel lane R1 has stopped. If the vehicle has stopped (S13: Yes), the control unit 31 shifts the process to step S14. The control unit 31 waits until the vehicle has stopped (S13: No).

[0067] In step S14, the control unit 31 causes the camera Ca to stop capturing images. As a result, the camera Ca stops capturing images when the vehicle stops in the fueling lane R1. The control unit 31 acquires video data captured during the period from when the vehicle starts to enter the fueling lane R1 until when the vehicle stops in the fueling lane R1.

[0068] Next, in step S15, the control unit 31 determines whether or not refueling permission has been obtained. Specifically, the control unit 31 obtains a request for refueling permission from the refueling machine 2A in the refueling lane R1 in response to the user's refueling operation (input operations such as payment method, type of fuel, and quantity). The control unit 31 transmits the request for refueling permission to a staff member and obtains refueling permission from the staff member. When the control unit 31 obtains the refueling permission, it permits refueling of the vehicle (S15: Yes) and transitions the process to step S16. The control unit 31 waits until the refueling permission is obtained (S15: No).

[0069] In step S16, the control unit 31 determines whether refueling has started. The control unit 31 determines that refueling has started when it detects that the refueling nozzle 23 has been removed from the storage unit in the refueling machine 2. When refueling has started (S16: Yes), the control unit 31 shifts the processing to step S17. The control unit 31 waits until refueling has started (S16: No).

[0070] In step S17, the control unit 31 starts playing back the captured video. Specifically, the control unit 31 displays (plays back) on the operation display unit 13 of the refueling operation terminal 1 the captured images (video) of the refueling lane R1 continuously captured by the camera Ca from the time the vehicle starts to enter the refueling lane R1 until the vehicle stops in the refueling lane R1 (see FIGS. 5A to 5C and 6A to 6C).

[0071] In step S18, the control unit 31 determines whether or not refueling has ended. The control unit 31 determines that refueling has ended when it detects that the refueling nozzle 23 has been stored in the storage unit in the refueling machine 2. When refueling has ended (S18: Yes), the control unit 31 shifts the processing to step S19. The control unit 31 waits until refueling has ended (S18: No).

[0072] In step S19, the control unit 31 ends the playback of the video. Then, in step S20, the control unit 31 ends the refueling process. In this way, the control unit 31 plays back, on the refueling operation terminal 1, vehicle information (photographed video) showing the state of the vehicle from the start to the end of refueling of the vehicle.

[0073] In another embodiment, the control unit 31 may display information on the playback screen of the video that prompts the user to inspect the vehicle and take caution. For example, on the display screen of Fig. 8A, the control unit 31 displays a message indicating that the video shows the vehicle entering the fuel lane R1, and on the display screens of Fig. 8B and 8C, the control unit 31 displays a message prompting the user to check whether there is anything abnormal with the brake lights.

[0074] [Second configuration example] A second example of the configuration of the notification process will be described below. Here, differences from the first example of the configuration will be mainly described, and explanations of points that overlap with the first example of the configuration will be omitted.

[0075] In the second configuration example, the determination processing unit 315 determines whether or not there is an abnormality in the vehicle based on the captured image. Specifically, the determination processing unit 315 performs image analysis on the captured image captured by the camera Ca to determine whether or not there is an abnormality in the vehicle (such as a lamp failure). The determination processing unit 315 is an example of the determination processing unit of the present invention.

[0076] When an abnormality occurs in the vehicle, the notification processing unit 314 displays abnormality information on the refueling operation terminal 1. Specifically, the notification processing unit 314 displays the details of the abnormality (such as "brake light out"), an identification image that can identify the abnormal part, and the like on the refueling operation terminal 1.

[0077] For example, if a vehicle with a broken left rear lamp enters the refueling lane R1, the determination processing unit 315 determines that there is an abnormality in the vehicle, and the notification processing unit 314 displays, on the display screen of the refueling operation terminal 1 during refueling, a message indicating that the left rear lamp (brake lamp) is broken, an identification image indicating the broken location, etc. (see FIG. 9B). The notification processing unit 314 also displays, on the display screen, a message urging the user to replace the rear lamp (see FIG. 9C).

[0078] Fig. 10 shows a specific example of screen transitions of the display screen displayed on the operation display unit 13 of the refueling operation terminal 1 in the second configuration example. As shown in Fig. 10(d), the control unit 31 may display a message indicating the abnormality when an abnormality in the vehicle is detected. The control unit 31 plays the videos shown in Figs. 9A to 9C on the display screen of Fig. 10(d).

[0079] [Fueling process in the second configuration example] An example of the procedure for the refueling process of the second configuration example executed in the refueling system 10 will be described below with reference to Fig. 11. Here, differences from the refueling process of the first configuration example described above (see Fig. 7) will be mainly described, and explanations of points that overlap with the refueling process of the first configuration example will be omitted.

[0080] When the control unit 31 detects a vehicle and starts capturing images (S11, S12), it determines in step S21 whether there is an abnormality in the vehicle, in this case, whether the rear lamp is malfunctioning. If the control unit 31 detects a malfunction in the rear lamp (S21: Yes), it registers an abnormality detection flag "1" in association with the fueling lane R1 in the vehicle detection information D2 in step S22 (see FIG. 3B). Thereafter, the control unit 31 shifts the process to step S13. If the control unit 31 does not detect a malfunction in the rear lamp (S21: No), it shifts the process to step S13.

[0081] Next, the control unit 31 executes the processes of steps S13 to S17 (the same processes as steps S13 to S17 in FIG. 7), and determines whether or not there is an abnormality detection flag in step S23. If the abnormality detection flag "1" is registered in the vehicle detection information D2 (S23: Yes), the control unit 31 shifts the process to step S24. On the other hand, if the abnormality detection flag "0" is registered in the vehicle detection information D2 (S23: No), the control unit 31 shifts the process to step S18.

[0082] In step S24, the control unit 31 displays a message (abnormality information) indicating that the rear lamp is malfunctioning (see FIG. 9B). Thereafter, the control unit 31 shifts the process to step S18. The control unit 31 executes the processes of steps S18 to S20 (see FIG. 7) and ends the refueling process.

[0083] According to the second configuration example, the control unit 31 can notify the user of abnormality information when an abnormality in the vehicle is detected, so that the user can easily recognize the abnormality in the vehicle.

[0084] [Third configuration example] A third configuration example of the notification process will be described.

[0085] In the third configuration example, the determination processing unit 315 determines whether or not there is an abnormality in the vehicle based on the captured image, similarly to the second configuration example.

[0086] Furthermore, when there is an abnormality in the vehicle, the notification processing unit 314 causes the refueling operation terminal 1 to display abnormality information and also displays promotional information. Specifically, the notification processing unit 314 causes the refueling operation terminal 1 to display repair information related to repairing the abnormality, etc.

[0087] For example, if a vehicle with a broken left rear lamp enters the refueling lane R1, the determination processing unit 315 determines that there is an abnormality in the vehicle, and the notification processing unit 314 displays, on the display screen of the refueling operation terminal 1 during refueling, a message indicating that the left rear lamp (brake lamp) is broken, an identification image indicating the broken location, a message regarding lamp replacement (work time, replacement cost, etc.) (see FIG. 12B).The notification processing unit 314 also displays, on the display screen, a message urging the user to replace the rear lamp, a button for requesting replacement (a button to call staff), a button for selecting no replacement, etc. (see FIG. 12C).

[0088] In another embodiment, the notification processing unit 314 may display a message indicating that there is a notification regarding a vehicle abnormality, as shown in Fig. 13. When the user selects the "View Notification" button, the notification processing unit 314 may display the display screens of Fig. 12B and Fig. 12C.

[0089] 14 shows a specific example of screen transitions of the display screen displayed on the operation display unit 13 of the fueling operation terminal 1 in the third configuration example. As shown in FIG. 14(d), the control unit 31 may display a message indicating an abnormality when an abnormality in the vehicle is detected. Also, as shown in FIG. 14(e), the control unit 31 may display the message shown in FIG. 13 on the settlement screen.

[0090] In another embodiment, the control unit 31 may notify a staff member when a vehicle abnormality is detected. When the staff member receives the vehicle abnormality notification, the staff member checks the time required for the replacement work based on the work status, congestion status, reservation status, etc. of the maintenance area MA (see FIG. 1), and inputs the current work status, etc. For example, the staff member selects "Now," "10 minutes later," "30 minutes later," "Reservation," etc. for the lamp replacement work at the in-store SSC 3. For example, if the staff member selects "Now," the control unit 31 causes the fueling operation terminal 1 to display a message indicating that the brake lamp replacement work can be performed immediately (see FIG. 15A). Also, for example, if the staff member selects "Reservation," the control unit 31 causes the fueling operation terminal 1 to display a message indicating that a reservation for the brake lamp replacement work is available (see FIG. 15B).

[0091] In another embodiment, the control unit 31 may cause the fueling operation terminal 1 to display a message indicating that an inspection has been performed even if no abnormality is detected in the vehicle (see FIGS. 16B and 16C). The control unit 31 may cause the message to be displayed during fueling (see FIG. 16B), or may cause the message to be displayed when the payment is made after fueling is completed (see FIG. 16C). This allows the gas station GS1 to appeal to customers who come to refuel that it offers a vehicle inspection service.

[0092] [Fueling process in the third configuration example] An example of the procedure for the refueling process of the third configuration example executed in the refueling system 10 will be described below with reference to Fig. 17. Here, differences from the refueling process of the second configuration example described above (see Fig. 11) will be mainly described, and explanations of points that overlap with the refueling process of the second configuration example will be omitted.

[0093] If the control unit 31 detects a rear lamp failure in step S21 (S21: Yes), the control unit 31 proceeds to step S22 and registers an abnormality detection flag "1" in association with the fueling lane R1 in the vehicle detection information D2 (see FIG. 3B). Thereafter, the control unit 31 acquires the work status for repairing the failure in step S31. Specifically, the control unit 31 acquires response information from the staff regarding the lamp replacement work, such as "immediately," "in 10 minutes," "in 30 minutes," or "reservation." Thereafter, the control unit 31 proceeds to step S13.

[0094] Next, the control unit 31 executes the processes of steps S13 to S17 (the same processes as steps S13 to S17 in FIG. 7), and determines whether or not there is an abnormality detection flag in step S23. If the abnormality detection flag "1" is registered in the vehicle detection information D2 (S23: Yes), the control unit 31 shifts the process to step S24. On the other hand, if the abnormality detection flag "0" is registered in the vehicle detection information D2 (S23: No), the control unit 31 shifts the process to step S18.

[0095] In step S24, the control unit 31 displays a message (abnormality information) indicating that the rear lamp is malfunctioning (see FIG. 9B). Then, in step S32, the control unit 31 displays promotional information on the refueling operation terminal 1. Specifically, the control unit 31 displays repair information related to repairing the abnormality (here, the malfunction of the rear lamp) on the refueling operation terminal 1 (see FIGS. 15A and 15B).

[0096] Furthermore, after the fuel filling process (S20) is completed, the control unit 31 may cause the promotional information to be displayed on the fuel filling operation terminal 1 in step S33 (see FIG. 16C).

[0097] According to the third configuration example, when the control unit 31 detects an abnormality in the vehicle, it can notify the user of the abnormality information and promotional information, so that the user can easily recognize the abnormality in the vehicle and decide whether to request repairs.

[0098] [Fourth configuration example] A fourth configuration example of the notification process will be described.

[0099] In the fourth configuration example, the determination processing unit 315 determines whether or not there is an abnormality in the vehicle based on the captured image, similar to the second configuration example. Also, in the fourth configuration example, the determination processing unit 315 determines whether or not there is an abnormality in the vehicle's front lamps. For example, the determination processing unit 315 determines whether or not the front lamps (headlights, etc.) on the left and right sides of the vehicle are lit normally. Furthermore, the determination processing unit 315 may determine whether or not there is an abnormality only during a time period when the front lights are lit (for example, at night). In this way, the determination processing unit 315 of the present invention determines whether or not there is an abnormality in at least one of the vehicle's front lamps and rear lamps.

[0100] For example, if a vehicle with a malfunctioning right front lamp enters the refueling lane R1, the determination processing unit 315 determines that there is an abnormality in the vehicle, and the notification processing unit 314 displays, on the display screen of the refueling operation terminal 1 during refueling, a message indicating that the right front lamp (headlight) is malfunctioning, an identification image indicating the malfunctioning location, a message regarding lamp replacement (work time, replacement cost, etc.) (see FIG. 18B).The notification processing unit 314 also displays, on the display screen, a message urging the user to replace the rear lamp, a button for requesting replacement work (a button to call staff), a button for selecting whether replacement is not required, etc. (see FIG. 18C).

[0101] [5th ​​configuration example] A fifth configuration example of the notification process will be described.

[0102] In the fifth configuration example, the determination processing unit 315 determines whether or not there is an abnormality in the vehicle based on the captured image, as in the second configuration example. Also, in the fifth configuration example, the determination processing unit 315 determines whether or not there is an abnormality after the vehicle has finished refueling and started moving. For example, the determination processing unit 315 determines whether the fuel filler cap of the vehicle is closed, whether clothes or other objects are caught in the door, whether or not there is any item left behind (lost) in the fuel lane, etc.

[0103] When the determination processing unit 315 detects an abnormality, the notification processing unit 314 notifies the staff of the abnormality. For example, as shown in Fig. 19, the notification processing unit 314 displays on the display screen of the in-store SSC 3 that the fuel filler cap is open and that there is an item dropped in the fuel lane. When the staff recognizes the abnormality, they stop the vehicle or contact the user.

[0104] [Fueling process in the fifth configuration example] Hereinafter, an example of the procedure for the refueling process of the fifth configuration example executed in the refueling system 10 will be described with reference to Fig. 20. Here, differences from the refueling process of the first configuration example described above (see Fig. 7) will be mainly described, and explanations of points that overlap with the refueling process of the first configuration example will be omitted.

[0105] When the refueling process is completed (S20), the control unit 31 proceeds to step S41 and determines whether the vehicle has started moving. When the vehicle has started moving (S41: Yes), the control unit 31 proceeds to step S42.

[0106] In step S42, the control unit 31 determines whether or not there is an abnormality in the fueling lane and the vehicle. If the control unit 31 detects an abnormality (S42: Yes), the control unit 31 shifts the process to step S43.

[0107] In step S43, the control unit 31 notifies the staff of the abnormality. Specifically, the control unit 31 causes the in-store SSC 3 to display a display screen indicating the abnormality (see FIG. 19).

[0108] According to the fifth configuration example, the control unit 31 can detect an abnormality and notify the user even after the fueling of the vehicle is completed.

[0109] [6th configuration example] A sixth configuration example of the notification process will be described.

[0110] In the sixth configuration example, as shown in Fig. 21A, the notification processing unit 314 displays an image of the surroundings of the vehicle captured by the user while the user is performing a refueling operation on the refueling operation terminal 1. Fig. 21B is a partial enlarged view of Fig. 21A.

[0111] Furthermore, for example, as shown in FIG. 21C, when the determination processing unit 315 detects a person around the vehicle, the notification processing unit 314 may cause the refueling operation terminal 1 to display warning information indicating the presence of a person.

[0112] Fig. 22 shows a specific example of screen transitions of the display screens displayed on the operation display unit 13 of the refueling operation terminal 1 in the sixth configuration example. As shown in Fig. 22(b) to (e), the control unit 31 displays images of the surroundings of the vehicle on each operation screen.

[0113] [Fueling process in the sixth configuration example] Hereinafter, an example of the procedure for the refueling process of the sixth configuration example executed in the refueling system 10 will be described with reference to Fig. 23. Here, differences from the refueling process of the first configuration example described above (see Fig. 7) will be mainly described, and explanations of points that overlap with the refueling process of the first configuration example will be omitted.

[0114] When the control unit 31 detects a vehicle in step S11 (see FIG. 7) (S11: Yes), in step S111, the control unit 31 causes the camera Ca, which can capture images of the fuel lane R1 from above (above), to start capturing images. Note that the control unit 31 may subsequently execute the processes of steps S12 to S20 (see FIG. 7) in the first configuration example in parallel. That is, in the sixth configuration example, when the control unit 31 detects a vehicle, the control unit 31 may execute the process of capturing an image of the rear or front of the vehicle (S12 to S20 in FIG. 7) and the process of capturing an image of the top of the vehicle (S111 to S116) in parallel.

[0115] Next, in step S112, the control unit 31 starts displaying the image captured by the camera Ca on the refueling operation terminal 1 (see FIG. 22(b)).

[0116] Next, in step S113, the control unit 31 determines whether or not a person has been detected around the vehicle in the fueling lane R1. If the control unit 31 detects the person (S113: Yes), the control unit 31 proceeds to step S114. On the other hand, if the control unit 31 does not detect the person (S113: No), the control unit 31 proceeds to step S115.

[0117] In step S114, the control unit 31 causes the refueling operation terminal 1 to display warning information indicating the presence of a person (see FIG. 21C).

[0118] In step S115, the control unit 31 determines whether the refueling process has been completed. If the refueling process has been completed (S115: Yes), the control unit 31 ends the process of capturing and displaying the image of the area around the vehicle in step S116.

[0119] According to the sixth configuration example, the control unit 31 determines whether or not there is a person around the vehicle during refueling, and if a person is detected, it can notify the user of warning information. This makes it possible to alert the user and ensure the safety of the refueling operation.

[0120] [7th configuration example] A seventh configuration example of the notification process will be described.

[0121] In the seventh configuration example, as shown in FIG. 24A, when the determination processing unit 315 detects that the vehicle is dirty, the notification processing unit 314 may cause the refueling operation terminal 1 to display information indicating that the vehicle is dirty.

[0122] Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 24B, when the determination processing unit 315 detects that a plurality of people are performing refueling work, the notification processing unit 314 may cause the refueling operation terminal 1 to display warning information.

[0123] Also, as shown in FIG. 24C, when the determination processing unit 315 detects that a window of the vehicle is open, the notification processing unit 314 may cause the refueling operation terminal 1 to display a message indicating that a window of the vehicle is open.

[0124] [Fueling process of the seventh configuration example] Hereinafter, an example of the procedure for the refueling process of the seventh configuration example executed in the refueling system 10 will be described with reference to Fig. 25. Here, differences from the refueling process of the sixth configuration example (see Fig. 23) described above will be mainly described, and explanations of points that overlap with the refueling process of the seventh configuration example will be omitted.

[0125] In step S113, the control unit 31 determines whether or not a person has been detected around the vehicle in the fueling lane R1. If the control unit 31 detects the person (S113: Yes), the control unit 31 shifts the process to step S114. On the other hand, if the control unit 31 does not detect the person (S113: No), the control unit 31 shifts the process to step S117.

[0126] In step S117, the control unit 31 determines whether or not the vehicle is dirty. If the control unit 31 detects that the vehicle is dirty (S117: Yes), in step S114, the control unit 31 causes the refueling operation terminal 1 to display warning information indicating that the vehicle is dirty (see FIG. 24A). On the other hand, if the control unit 31 does not detect that the vehicle is dirty (S117: No), the control unit 31 shifts the processing to step S115.

[0127] According to the seventh configuration example, the control unit 31 can determine whether or not there is a person around the vehicle and whether or not the vehicle is dirty during a refueling operation.

[0128] As shown in the fifth to seventh configuration examples, the judgment processing unit 315 judges whether there is an abnormality at the refueling location (refueling lane) or whether there is an abnormality around the vehicle, and the notification processing unit 314 displays abnormality information on the refueling operation terminal 1 if there is an abnormality at the refueling location or around the vehicle.

[0129] In another embodiment, as shown in FIG. 26, if the control unit 31 does not detect dirt on the vehicle in step S117 (S117: No), it determines in step S118 whether or not a prohibited action has been detected. For example, if multiple people are performing refueling work, the control unit 31 determines that a prohibited action has been detected. If the control unit 31 detects a prohibited action (S118: Yes), it causes the refueling operation terminal 1 to display warning information informing the user that the prohibited action corresponds to the prohibited action in step S114 (see FIG. 24B). This allows the control unit 31 to make the user aware of the prohibited action. On the other hand, if the control unit 31 does not detect a prohibited action (S118: No), it causes the process to proceed to step S115.

[0130] In each of the above configuration examples, when the control unit 31 detects a vehicle, the control unit 31 may cause vehicle information indicating the vehicle's condition to be displayed on the in-store SSC 3. Furthermore, when the control unit 31 detects an abnormality in the vehicle, the control unit 31 may cause abnormality information to be displayed on the in-store SSC 3.

[0131] In other embodiments of the present invention, the camera Ca may be installed before and after each fuel lane, before and after each of a plurality of fuel lane lanes, or in front or behind a fuel lane. Also, one camera Ca may be installed at the gas station GS1.

[0132] The fueling operation terminal 1, the fueling machine 2, and the in-store SSC 3 correspond to the fueling system of the present invention, but the fueling system of the present invention may include one or more of the components of the fueling operation terminal 1, the fueling machine 2, and the in-store SSC 3. For example, the fueling system of the present invention may be configured by the in-store SSC 3 alone. Furthermore, the fueling operation terminal 1 and the in-store SSC 3 may be configured as an integrated device (a management server or a POS terminal). [Explanation of symbols]

[0133] 1: Fueling operation terminal 2: Fuel pump 3: In-store SSC 10: Fueling system 111: Display processing unit 112: Reception processing unit 211: Reception processing unit 212: Request processing unit 311: Fuel supply processing unit 312: Detection processing unit 313: Image processing unit 314: Notification processing unit 315: Judgment processing unit Ca: Camera

Claims

1. A fueling system that refuels a vehicle based on a user's fueling operation input into an operation terminal disposed at a fueling location, a detection processing unit that detects the vehicle; an imaging processing unit that, when the vehicle is detected by the detection processing unit, causes an imaging unit to capture an image of a predetermined area including the vehicle; a notification processing unit that notifies the operation terminal of vehicle information based on the captured image captured by the imaging unit; Equipped with The notification processing unit displays the vehicle information on a first display screen, which indicates that refueling is in progress, among multiple display screens displayed on the operating terminal in response to the refueling operation, from the time refueling of the vehicle begins to the time refueling of the vehicle is completed.

2. the imaging processing unit plays, on the first display screen, a video image captured during a period from when the vehicle starts to enter the refueling position until when the vehicle stops at the refueling position; The fueling system of claim 1 .

3. a determination processing unit that determines whether or not there is an abnormality in the vehicle based on the captured image, The notification processing unit displays abnormality information on the first display screen when an abnormality occurs in the vehicle.

3. The fuel supply system according to claim 1 or 2.

4. the determination processing unit determines whether or not there is an abnormality in at least one of a front lamp and a rear lamp of the vehicle.

4. The fuel supply system of claim 3.

5. When an abnormality is detected in the vehicle, the notification processing unit further displays repair information related to repair of the abnormality on the first display screen.

5. The fuel supply system according to claim 3 or claim 4.

6. the notification processing unit displays, on the first display screen, the captured image including a vehicle image of the vehicle and an identification image that can identify an abnormal part of the vehicle in the vehicle image. A fuel supply system according to any one of claims 3 to 5.

7. The determination processing unit further determines whether or not there is an abnormality at the refueling position or whether or not there is an abnormality around the vehicle, The notification processing unit displays the abnormality information on the first display screen when an abnormality occurs at the refueling position or when an abnormality occurs around the vehicle. A fuel supply system according to any one of claims 3 to 6.

8. A refueling method for refueling a vehicle based on a refueling operation by a user inputted into an operation terminal disposed at a refueling station, comprising: One or more processors a detection step of detecting the vehicle; an imaging step of causing an imaging unit to capture an image of a predetermined area including the vehicle when the vehicle is detected in the detection step; a notification step of causing the operation terminal to notify the vehicle information based on the captured image captured by the imaging unit; Run In the notification step, from the start of refueling of the vehicle to the end of refueling of the vehicle, the vehicle information is displayed on a first display screen, which indicates that refueling is in progress, among multiple display screens displayed on the operating terminal in response to the refueling operation.

9. A fueling program for fueling a vehicle based on a fueling operation of a user inputted into an operation terminal disposed at a fueling location, a detection step of detecting the vehicle; an imaging step of causing an imaging unit to capture an image of a predetermined area including the vehicle when the vehicle is detected in the detection step; a notification step of causing the operation terminal to notify the vehicle information based on the captured image captured by the imaging unit; on one or more processors, A refueling program that, in the notification step, displays the vehicle information on a first display screen indicating that refueling is in progress among multiple display screens displayed on the operating terminal in response to the refueling operation from the time refueling of the vehicle begins to the time refueling of the vehicle is completed.

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