Information processing device, information processing method, and program

Abstract

To provide high-quality communications to users. [Solution] The information processing device includes a location acquisition unit that acquires location information of a mobile body, a network identification unit that identifies available networks, which are slice networks that can be provided in the vicinity of the mobile body's current location, based on the service areas of multiple slice networks that are virtually divided into a wireless communication network, and an output unit that outputs information regarding the identified available networks.

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] Network slicing, a technology for virtually dividing a network, has been known in the past. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a system that acquires bandwidth information and communication quality information indicating the degree of congestion for each of multiple slice networks, which are networks obtained by virtually dividing a wireless communication network, and allocates high-priority users to slice networks where quality is guaranteed. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-041241 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] Because wireless communication networks have limited communication capacity, when a slice network is provided within a certain range, the number of user terminals that can guarantee the communication quality corresponding to the slice network is limited. Therefore, depending on the usage status of the slice network, the slice network may not be applicable to communication between user terminals. Furthermore, when a user terminal moves, similar problems occur in multiple areas. For example, users of user terminals may move in search of a high-quality communication environment.

[0005] Whether or not a high-quality communication environment can be obtained can be determined, for example, by the presence or absence of a base station. However, it has not been easy to determine whether the area around the base station is accessible to users without stress and whether the environment allows users to stay there for long periods of time. For example, if a base station is located at a roadside station on a highway, it is not suitable for access by foot. Furthermore, the allocation status of the slice network is unknown, and even if a user moves in search of a high-quality communication environment, they may not be able to access the network.

[0006] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above circumstances, and an object of the present invention is to provide an information processing device, an information processing method, and a program that are capable of providing high-quality communications to users. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] (1) One aspect of the present invention is an information processing device comprising a location acquisition unit that acquires location information of a mobile body, a network identification unit that identifies an available network, which is a slice network that can be provided in the vicinity of the location of the mobile body, based on the service areas of multiple slice networks that are virtually divided into a wireless communication network, and an output unit that outputs information regarding the identified available network, wherein the network identification unit identifies the time required to travel from the location of the mobile body to a point where the available network is available, and the output unit outputs the time required identified by the network identification unit. (2) Furthermore, one aspect of the present invention is that, in the information processing device of (1) described above, the information processing device further includes a request acquisition unit that acquires information regarding a request for planned use of a slice network, which information includes at least a scheduled start time of use, which is the scheduled time when use of the slice network is to begin, and the network identification unit identifies the scheduled arrival time when the mobile body moves from its location to a point where the available network is available, and identifies the service area of ​​the slice network where the identified scheduled arrival time is earlier than the scheduled start time of use as the available network. (3) Furthermore, one aspect of the present invention is that in the information processing device described above in (1) or (2), each slice network is pre-assigned the type of location where the slice network is located, and the network identification unit identifies the available network based on the type of the mobile body and the type of the slice network. (4) Furthermore, one aspect of the present invention is that, in any of the information processing devices described above in (1) to (3), the location acquisition unit acquires information about a route including at least information about the location of the mobile body and information about a destination, and the network identification unit identifies the available network in the vicinity of the route. (5) Furthermore, one aspect of the present invention is that in any of the information processing devices described above in (1) to (4), the network identification unit identifies the required time from the route if the route passes through a point where the available network is available, and the output unit outputs the required time identified by the network identification unit. (6) Furthermore, one aspect of the present invention is that in the information processing device of (4) described above, the location acquisition unit is provided with a request acquisition unit that acquires request information, which is information regarding the departure point and destination of the mobile body, as well as the communication quality required by the mobile body, and a route identification unit that, based on the request information, identifies one or more routes that connect the acquired departure point and destination of the mobile body, passing through at least one or more service areas of the slice network, thereby acquiring information regarding the route, which includes at least information regarding the location of the mobile body and information regarding the destination. (7) Also, one aspect of the present invention is that in the information processing device described above in (6), the network identification unit identifies a slice network that satisfies a communication quality equal to or higher than the communication quality included in the request information as the available network. (8) Also, one aspect of the present invention is that in the information processing device of (6) above, the request information includes information regarding the type of service requested by the mobile body, information regarding the quality level, and information regarding the service level, and the network identification unit determines communication requirements based on a combination of the type of service and the quality level included in the request information, and identifies the available network by determining the tolerance in the event that the communication requirements cannot be met based on the service level included in the request information. (9) Furthermore, one aspect of the present invention is that, in any of the information processing devices described above in (1) to (8), the network identification unit identifies the available network based on the number of users of the slice network or the amount of wireless resources used. (10) Also, one aspect of the present invention is that in the information processing device described above in (9), the network identification unit predicts the number of users of the slice network or the amount of wireless resources being used at the estimated arrival time when the mobile body moves to the available network, based on the estimated arrival time, and identifies the available network based on the predicted number of users of the slice network or the amount of wireless resources being used. (11) Furthermore, one aspect of the present invention is an information processing device in any of the above-mentioned (1) to (10), further comprising a reservation unit that reserves the slice network based on the available network and the location and time to which the mobile body is estimated to move in the future based on the location information of the mobile body acquired by the location acquisition unit. (12) Also, one aspect of the present invention is an information processing method performed using a computer, comprising: a location acquisition step of acquiring information on the location of a mobile body; a network identification step of identifying an available network, which is a slice network that can be provided in the vicinity of the location of the mobile body, based on the coverage areas of multiple slice networks that are virtually divided into a wireless communication network; and an output step of outputting information on the identified available network. The network specifying step specifies a required time for moving from the location of the mobile unit to a point where the available network is available, and the output step outputs the required time specified by the network specifying step. It is an information processing method. (13) Also, one aspect of the present invention is a method for causing a computer to execute a location acquisition step of acquiring information on the location of a mobile body, a network identification step of identifying an available network that is a slice network that can be provided in the vicinity of the location of the mobile body based on the coverage areas of multiple slice networks that are virtually divided into a wireless communication network, and an output step of outputting information on the identified available network. The network specifying step specifies a required time for moving from the location of the mobile unit to a point where the available network is available, and the output step outputs the required time specified by the network specifying step. It is a program. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide users with high-quality communications. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram illustrating an overview of an information processing system according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a series of steps of an information processing method according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a travel route targeted by the information processing device according to the present embodiment. [Figure 4] A diagram for explaining an example of a service area of ​​a slice network located near a travel route targeted by an information processing device in this embodiment. [Figure 5] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating an example of an allocation status at an estimated arrival time for each slice providing area determined by the information processing device according to the present embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a case where slice provisionable areas obtained for all slices to be searched are aggregated by the information processing device according to this embodiment to generate a provisionable network area. [Figure 7] A figure for explaining routes to the service area of ​​each slice network calculated by an information processing device related to this embodiment. [Figure 8]FIG. 2 is a functional configuration diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the information processing device according to the present embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a functional configuration diagram showing a modified example of the functional configuration of the information processing device according to the present embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 2 is a functional configuration diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of a position acquisition unit included in the information processing device according to the present embodiment. [Figure 11] 1 is a flowchart showing an example of a series of steps in an information processing method according to the present embodiment. [Figure 12] 1 is a block diagram showing an example of an internal configuration of an information processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention; DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] [Embodiment] An information processing device, an information processing method, and a program according to preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that the present invention is not limited to these embodiments and includes various modifications and improvements. In other words, the components described below include those that would be easily conceivable to a person skilled in the art or that are substantially identical, and the components described below can be combined as appropriate. Furthermore, various omissions, substitutions, or modifications of the components can be made without departing from the spirit of the present invention. Furthermore, in the drawings, the scale and number of components may differ from the scale and number of the actual components to make each configuration easier to understand.

[0011] [Embodiment] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an overview of an information processing system according to an embodiment. First, an overview of the information processing system 1 will be described with reference to the diagram. The information processing system 1 includes a plurality of user terminals 20 and an information processing device 10. The diagram illustrates user terminal 20-1 and user terminal 20-2 as examples of the plurality of user terminals 20. In the following description, when one of the plurality of user terminals 20 is not specified, it may be simply referred to as user terminal 20.

[0012] The user terminal 20 is connected to the information processing device 10 via an information communication network NW. The user terminal 20 is a mobile terminal such as a smartphone or a tablet computer (tablet PC). The user terminal 20 requests a communication spot from the information processing device 10 via a predetermined information communication network NW. The user terminal 20 presents available networks obtained as a result of the request to, for example, the user of the user terminal 20.

[0013] The information and communication network NW may be a communication network provided by one operator, or may be multiple communication networks provided by multiple operators. The information and communication network NW may be, for example, a mobile phone network using a system (5GSA system) in which wireless communication is performed between communication equipment dedicated to fifth-generation communication (5G) and a 5G base station.

[0014] The information processing device 10 is connected to each of a plurality of user terminals 20 via an information communication network NW. Information communication between the information processing device 10 and each of the user terminals 20 is independent. The information processing device 10 receives a request for a communication spot from each of the user terminals 20. In response to the received request, the information processing device 10 identifies an available network and presents the identified information to the user terminal 20 that sent the request.

[0015] The information processing device 10 may acquire the travel route of the user terminal 20 from the user terminal 20, or may generate it by itself. For example, the information processing device 10 may generate the travel route by itself using information on the departure point and destination acquired from the user terminal 20 and map information prepared in advance. In the following description, as an example, a case where the travel route is specified by the information processing device 10 will be described.

[0016] 2 is a diagram showing a series of steps in the information processing method according to this embodiment. Next, with reference to the same diagram, a series of steps in the information processing method performed by the above-described information processing system 1 will be described.

[0017] (Step S1) First, the user terminal 20 transmits a communication spot request to the information processing device 10. The communication spot request is a request to identify a communication spot that provides a communication environment of the quality desired by the user. The communication spot request may include, for example, location information of the user terminal 20 (e.g., current location or departure location), destination and surrounding area conditions, communication requirements, and travel method as information elements. The location information is location coordinates that identify a location, and may be, for example, coordinate information of the location where the user terminal 20 is currently located, obtained by the user terminal 20 using a GPS (Global Positioning System) or the like, or coordinate information of a location from which the user terminal 20 will depart in the future. The destination is location coordinates that identify a location to which the user terminal 20 wishes to travel. The destination is not limited to an example of information indicating a location, but may also be information indicating a range. When the destination is information indicating a range, it may be a circle, rectangle, polygon, or the like, centered on a location and a distance such as a radius. The departure location and destination included in the communication spot request may be the name of a place that can be identified by the information processing device 10.

[0018] In the following description, an example of searching for communication spots based on a route connecting a departure point and a destination will be described, but the present embodiment is not limited to this example. For example, it is also possible to specify only the current location and search for communication spots around the current location.

[0019] The communication requirements included in the communication spot request include a service type, a quality level (including a desired quality and a minimum quality), a scheduled time of use (which may be a scheduled duration of use), etc. The service type is the type of service that the user terminal 20 desires to execute, and examples thereof include a video service, an AR / VR service, and a metaverse. The quality level may be high quality, medium quality, low quality, etc. The quality level may be set in detail for each of the desired quality and the minimum quality, and may be expressed in units of the number of data that can be transferred per second (bps: bits per second), for example, desired quality: 30 [Mbps], minimum quality: 10 [Mbps]. The scheduled time of use may specify a scheduled start time and a scheduled end time, such as 14:00-15:00. If a scheduled duration of use is used instead of a scheduled time of use, only the scheduled period of use, such as 60 minutes, may be specified.

[0020] The transportation method is a method of transportation from a starting point to a communication spot. Specific examples of the transportation method include walking, cycling, driving a car, an autonomous vehicle, and using a robot.

[0021] (Step S2) Next, the information processing device 10 identifies a route connecting the departure point and the destination based on the communication spot request received from the user terminal 20. The route identified by the information processing device 10 is the route along which the user terminal 20 travels, and may therefore also be referred to as a travel route. The travel route identified by the information processing device 10 includes the departure point and the destination, and may preferably include an estimated time of arrival at the destination. The travel route may also include information about one or more relay points. Information about relay points includes the coordinates of the relay points and the estimated time of arrival at the relay points. The location coordinates, name, etc. of the relay points may be included in the communication spot request transmitted from the user terminal 20 to the information processing device 10 in step S1.

[0022] When only the current location is specified and communication spots around the current location are searched for, it is possible to omit the process of step S2 described above.

[0023] 3 is a diagram for explaining an example of a travel route targeted by the information processing device according to this embodiment. Here, with reference to the same figure, an example of a travel route identified by the information processing device 10 in step S2 will be described.

[0024] In the figure, a departure point S is the departure point of the travel route. The departure point S may be the current location of the user terminal 20. The figure also shows a vehicle 30. A user carrying the user terminal 20 is on board the vehicle 30. The user terminal 20 may be incorporated into the vehicle 30. As can be seen from the figure, the vehicle 30 is located at the departure point S, and therefore, in this case, the departure point S and the current location of the user terminal 20 are the same. However, this embodiment is not limited to this example, and the departure point S and the current location of the user terminal 20 may be different from each other. A destination G is the destination of the travel route. In the figure, the destination G is shown as a point, but this embodiment is not limited to this example, and the destination G may be specified as a range. A route R is a travel route connecting the departure point S and the destination G. The vehicle 30 travels from the departure point S to the destination G along the route R.

[0025] In the illustrated example, no relay points are set, but one or more relay points may be set between the departure point S and the destination G. The route R connects the departure point S and the destination G, preferably passing through all of the one or more relay points. Returning to FIG. 2, the explanation of the sequence of the information processing method performed by the information processing system 1 will continue.

[0026] (Step S3) Next, the information processing device 10 identifies an available network, which is a slice network that can be provided for the travel route identified in step S2 or the current location specified in step S1. Furthermore, if there is an available slice network at each point on the travel route or the starting point, depending on whether the communication requirements are met, the information processing device 10 may identify the range in which the slice network can be provided as an available slice network area and include it in the information on the available network.

[0027] More specifically, first, the information processing device 10 determines a slice network to be searched. Specifically, the slice network to be searched is determined based on the service type, quality level, etc. of the communication requirements acquired from the user terminal 20. For example, if the service type is a video service, the desired quality is 30 [Mbps], and the minimum quality is 10 [Mbps], slice 1 (throughput 30 [Mbps]), slice 2 (throughput 20 [Mbps]), and slice 3 (throughput 10 [Mbps]) are identified as available slice network areas. Slices 1 to 3 all have communication speeds that satisfy the minimum quality.

[0028] Next, for each slice network to be searched, the search range is set to the travel route or current location, and the surrounding area within the range specified by the surrounding area condition included in the communication spot request in step S1, and the slice provision area is obtained.

[0029] FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining an example of a slice network coverage area near a travel route targeted by an information processing device according to this embodiment. An example of a specific slice network area that can be provided will be described with reference to the same figure. The example shown in the same figure corresponds to the travel route shown in FIG. 3. FIG. 4 shows the coverage area of ​​a slice network provided in the vicinity of each point on route R. Specifically, base stations with cell IDs 1, 2, and 3 exist in the vicinity of route R. The base station with cell ID 1 is located in the vicinity of XX Station, the base station with cell ID 2 is located in the parking lot of YYSA (YY service area), and the base station with cell ID 3 is located in the parking lot of ZZ Roadside Station. Each base station provides at least one slice network from slice 1, slice 2, or slice 3.

[0030] First, the information processing device 10 extracts all base station cells within a search range that can provide slice 1. The search range is a range based on route R, and is a range that includes all points within a predetermined distance (e.g., 5 km) from each point on route R. Note that if route R is not required and the search range is based only on the current location, the range may be a range with a predetermined radius (e.g., 5 km) centered on the current location. In the example shown in the same figure, it can be seen that base station cells with cell IDs 1 to 3 have been extracted. Next, the information processing device 10 narrows down the service area of ​​slice 1 within the radio wave areas of the extracted base station cells. The service area of ​​slice 1 is narrowed down based on statistical data such as communication performance and area field strength.

[0031] Next, the information processing device 10 identifies the estimated time of arrival for the slice 1 serving area. In the illustrated example, the base stations serving slice 1 are the base stations of cell ID 1 and cell ID 2. Here, if a base station exists in a peripheral area off route R, such as the base station of cell ID 1, in addition to identifying the estimated time of arrival, the information processing device 10 may calculate the route from the relay point to that area and calculate the time required to travel that route. In the following description, the time required to travel that route may be referred to as off-route travel time.

[0032] After identifying the estimated arrival time, the information processing device 10 determines whether the service area of ​​each slice network is a serviceable area. Specifically, if the estimated arrival time is before the scheduled use time (before the scheduled start time of use) and slice allocation to the user terminal 20 is possible, the information processing device 10 determines that the slice network is a serviceable area. Note that whether slice allocation is possible or not is determined by checking the slice allocation status of other terminals at the scheduled use time.

[0033] If the input of the communication requirement notified in step S1 is the scheduled use time instead of the scheduled use time, the slice allocation status of other terminals may be checked assuming that the scheduled use time is equal to the scheduled arrival time.

[0034] 5 is a diagram showing an example of the allocation status at the estimated arrival time for each slice provision area determined by the information processing device according to this embodiment. With reference to the figure, an example of the allocation status in each slice provision area and a method for determining a slice provisionable area will be described. The reference numerals in the figure correspond to those in FIG. 4.

[0035] FIG. 5(A) shows an example of a service area for slice 1. Base station cell ID1 can be provided in area 1-1 shown in FIG. 4, with an estimated arrival time of 13:30, an off-route time of 10 minutes, a scheduled use time of 14:00 (starting), an allocation status of 1 / 2, and one available slot. In this case, the estimated arrival time is before the scheduled use time and there is available slot at the scheduled use time, so the area is identified as a slice 1 serviceable area. Furthermore, base station cell ID2 can be provided in area 2-1 shown in FIG. 4, with an estimated arrival time of 13:50, an off-route time of 3 minutes, a scheduled use time of 14:00 (starting), an allocation status of 3 / 3, and no available slots. In this case, the estimated arrival time is before the scheduled use time, but there is no available slot at the scheduled use time, so the area is not identified as a slice 1 serviceable area.

[0036] FIG. 5(B) shows an example of a service area for slice 2. Base station cell ID1 can be provided in area 1-2 shown in FIG. 4, with an estimated arrival time of 13:30, an off-route time required of 9 minutes, a scheduled use time of 14:00 (starting), an allocation status of 2 / 4, and two available slots. In this case, the estimated arrival time is before the scheduled use time and there is available slots at the scheduled use time, so the area is identified as a slice 2 serviceable area. Base station cell ID2 can be provided in area 2-2 shown in FIG. 4, with an estimated arrival time of 13:50, an off-route time required of 2 minutes, a scheduled use time of 14:00 (starting), an allocation status of 3 / 5, and two available slots. In this case, the estimated arrival time is before the scheduled use time and there is available slots at the scheduled use time, so the area is identified as a slice 2 serviceable area. 4, the base station cell ID3 can be provided in area 3-2, the estimated arrival time is 14:10, the off-route time is 5 minutes, the estimated use time is 14:00 (starting), the allocation status is 4 / 4, and there are no vacancies. In this case, the estimated arrival time is later than the estimated use time, and there are no vacancies at the estimated use time, so the area is not identified as a slice 2 available area.

[0037] FIG. 5(C) shows an example of a service area for slice 3. Base station cell ID1 can be provided in area 1-3 shown in FIG. 4, with an estimated arrival time of 13:30, an off-route time of 8 minutes, a scheduled use time of 14:00 (starting), an allocation status of 3 / 6, and three available spaces. In this case, the estimated arrival time is before the scheduled use time and there is available space at the scheduled use time, so the area is identified as a slice 3 serviceable area. Base station cell ID2 can be provided in area 2-3 shown in FIG. 4, with an estimated arrival time of 13:50, an off-route time of 1 minute, a scheduled use time of 14:00 (starting), an allocation status of 5 / 8, and three available spaces. In this case, the estimated arrival time is before the scheduled use time and there is available space at the scheduled use time, so the area is identified as a slice 3 serviceable area. 4, the estimated arrival time is 14:10, the off-route time is 4 minutes, the estimated use time is 14:00 (starting), the allocation status is 6 / 7, and there is 1 vacancy. In this case, since the estimated arrival time is later than the estimated use time, even if there is a vacancy at the estimated use time, the area is not identified as an area where slice 3 can be provided.

[0038] In this way, the information processing device 10 obtains slice provision areas for all slice networks that are search targets. Next, the information processing device 10 aggregates the slice provision areas obtained for all slice networks that are search targets.

[0039] Figure 6 is a diagram showing an example of a case where slice provisionable areas obtained for all slice networks searched by an information processing device according to this embodiment are aggregated to generate a provisionable network area.

[0040] The figure shows that slice 1 can be provided in base station cell ID1, and slice 2 can be provided in base station cell ID2. The planned arrival time in slice 1's coverage area (area 1-1 shown in FIG. 4) in base station cell ID1 is 13:30, the off-route time required is 10 minutes, and the allocation status at the planned usage time of 14:00 is 1 / 2. The planned arrival time in slice 2's coverage area (area 2-2 shown in FIG. 4) in base station cell ID2 is 13:50, the off-route time required is 2 minutes, and the allocation status at the planned usage time of 14:00 is 3 / 5.

[0041] In this way, the information processing device 10 obtains the available network area by overlapping the slice provision areas obtained for all slice networks searched and aggregating the overlapping areas by prioritizing the area with the higher quality level. The information processing device 10 presents the obtained available network area to the user terminal 20.

[0042] Here, in step S1, the user's travel method may be specified. When the travel method is specified, the information processing device 10 may filter whether the area is an available network area that can be reached using the specified travel method. For example, if the travel method is walking or cycling, base station cells installed around stations, shopping malls, etc. can be accessed, but locations that can only be accessed by car, such as parking lots, service areas, and parking areas, cannot be accessed. Furthermore, if the travel method is by car, parking lots, service areas, and parking areas including facilities such as stations, shopping malls, etc. can be accessed, but pedestrian-only areas cannot be accessed.

[0043] If the user's transportation method is an autonomous vehicle, it is basically the same as an automobile, but it is considered that the range of the autonomous driving is limited within the operational design domain (ODD). Similarly, if the transportation method is a robot, it is considered that the range of the autonomous driving is limited within a predetermined operational design domain.

[0044] Figure 7 is a diagram for explaining the route to the service area of ​​each slice network calculated by the information processing device according to this embodiment. The figure shows an example of a route to the service area of ​​each slice network when the travel route has not been determined. The example shown in Figure 7 differs from the example shown in Figure 4 etc. in that the travel route is not specified and only the current location is specified.

[0045] In the example shown in the figure, base station cell ID1, base station cell ID2, and base station cell ID3 are identified as available networks. These base stations are located within a circle with a radius of X [km] (X is any natural number) as the surrounding area condition. Route R1 is the travel route to base station cell ID1, route R2 is the travel route to base station cell ID2, and route R3 is the travel route to base station cell ID3.

[0046] Base station cell ID1 is located in the parking lot of service area SA-1, with an estimated arrival time of 13:40 and an off-route travel time of 20 minutes. Base station cell ID2 is located near XX station, with an estimated arrival time of 13:50 and an off-route travel time of 30 minutes. Base station cell ID3 is located in the parking lot of roadside station RS-2, with an estimated arrival time of 13:50 and an off-route travel time of 30 minutes.

[0047] Based on such information, even if a travel route has not been identified, the information processing device 10 can identify available networks in the vicinity based on the current location information, and present to the user terminal 20 the required time and route to the identified available network.

[0048] A specific example of a case where the destination is not decided and processing is based on the current location is when a user or robot (including an autonomous vehicle) searches for a communication spot that is close to the current location and meets the desired quality for the purpose of downloading large amounts of data, and then selects one communication spot from multiple candidate locations obtained as a result of the search and moves to it.

[0049] Returning to FIG. 2, the explanation will continue on the flow of the information processing method performed by the information processing system 1 after specifying the available network.

[0050] (Step S4) The information processing device 10 presents the generated one or more available networks to the user terminal 20. Elements constituting the information provided by the information processing device 10 include at least the slice provision area on the route and the estimated arrival time. Elements constituting the available networks may also include elements for GUI (Graphical User Interface) display. Examples of GUI display elements include the name of the communication spot and the time required for travel outside the route.

[0051] (Step S5) When one or more available networks are presented, the user terminal 20 selects one of the presented available networks. The selection of an available network may be performed, for example, by a user operation. The user selects a preferred communication spot, taking into consideration, for example, communication quality and travel distance. The user terminal 20 transmits the selected available network to the information processing device 10. Note that the present invention is not limited to the example in which an available network is selected by a user, and a configuration in which an available network is automatically selected by a program may also be adopted.

[0052] (Step S6) Next, the information processing device 10 reserves resources based on the selected available network. Specifically, the resource reservation is made for each slice with the corresponding base station. The information processing device 10 reserves resources for the user in the slice allocation status at the estimated arrival time of the user terminal 20. Note that the estimated arrival time may have a margin of about five minutes before or after the arrival time.

[0053] (Step S7) After reserving the resource, the information processing device 10 notifies the user terminal 20 of the result of the resource reservation, whether or not the resource has been secured. If it takes time for the user terminal 20 to make a selection, another person may make a reservation first, and in such a case, the resource may not be secured. If the resource cannot be secured, the process may return to step S3, and another route may be searched for again.

[0054] (Step S8) If the resource reservation is successful, the user terminal 20 starts moving toward the determined available network. When the user terminal 20 reaches the area of ​​the target available network as it moves, it transmits a slice switching request to the information processing device 10. Here, the slice switching point may be one that has been derived in advance in the above-mentioned step S3 or the like. Note that even if the slice switching point has not been derived in step S3, it is possible for the user terminal 20 to derive the slice switching point.

[0055] (Step S9) When a slice switching request is received, the information processing device 10 performs slice switching according to the position of the user terminal 20. Specifically, the information processing device 10 may perform actual slice switching after checking the validity of the switching destination slice and the current position, based on the switching request from the user terminal 20 in step S8.

[0056] As another embodiment, it is also possible that the information processing device 10 takes the initiative in switching slices without a switching request being sent from the user terminal 20 to the information processing device 10. In this case, for example, the information processing device 10 can acquire position information of the user terminal 20 at a predetermined period, and determine the timing of slice switching according to the position information of the user terminal 20 and the coordinates of a switching point that have been derived in advance.

[0057] 8 is a functional configuration diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of an information processing device according to this embodiment. With reference to the same figure, an example of the functional configuration of the information processing device 10 will be described. As shown in the figure, the information processing device 10 includes a location acquisition unit 11, a network identification unit 12, an output unit 13, a switching control unit 14, and a reservation unit 15.

[0058] Each of these functional units is realized, for example, using electronic circuits. Each functional unit may also include internal storage means such as semiconductor memory or a magnetic hard disk drive, as necessary. Each function may also be realized by a computer having a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and software. All or part of each functional unit may also be realized by hardware (e.g., circuitry) such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), a PLD (Programmable Logic Device), or an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array). All or part of each functional unit may also be realized by a combination of software and hardware.

[0059] The information processing device 10 may function as a device having the above-described functions by, for example, executing an application installed on the device itself. A specific example of such an application is an application provided to the information processing device 10. Another specific example of such an application is a web browser application. Such an application may be installed in the information processing device 10 in advance, or may be downloaded each time the information processing device 10 is run.

[0060] The position acquisition unit 11 acquires the current location of the mobile body or the travel route from the departure point to the destination of the mobile body. Here, the mobile body may be, for example, the above-mentioned user terminal 20 or the vehicle 30. The mobile body is preferably a device capable of information communication, but the present embodiment is not limited to this example, and it is sufficient that the mobile body is equipped with a device that performs information communication, and the mobile body itself does not need to perform information communication.

[0061] The network identification unit 12 identifies an available network based on the coverage areas of multiple slice networks obtained by virtually dividing a wireless communication network. The available network is a slice network that can be provided around the current location of the mobile object or at each point on the moving route acquired by the location acquisition unit 11.

[0062] The output unit 13 outputs information about the available networks identified by the network identifying unit 12. The output unit 13 may output the location information acquired by the location acquisition unit 11 and the information about the available networks identified by the network identifying unit 12 in association with each other. The output unit 13 may output, to the user terminal 20, information capable of configuring a display screen such as that shown in Fig. 4 or 7, for example.

[0063] Note that the network identification unit 12 may identify multiple available networks as shown in Figures 4 and 7. In this case, the output unit 13 may present information about the multiple available networks identified by the network identification unit 12 to the user operating the mobile object by outputting it to the mobile object. The user operating the mobile object selects one of the multiple available networks presented. The switching control unit 14 switches the slice network provided to the mobile object to the slice network indicated by the available network selected by the user's operation.

[0064] The network identification unit 12 may identify an available network based on a communication quality requirement. That is, the network identification unit 12 may identify a slice network that satisfies a communication quality equal to or higher than the communication quality included in the request information acquired from the user terminal 20 as an available network.

[0065] Furthermore, when identifying an available network based on a communication quality requirement, it is possible that no slice network exists that satisfies the requirement. In this case, a slice network that satisfies a communication quality equal to or higher than the minimum quality can be selected. That is, the network identification unit 12 identifies a slice network that satisfies a communication quality equal to or higher than the communication quality included in the request information acquired from the user terminal 20 as an available network, and if no slice network satisfies a communication quality equal to or higher than the communication quality included in the request information exists, it identifies a slice network that satisfies a communication quality equal to or higher than the minimum quality as an available network.

[0066] Here, the request information acquired by the information processing device 10 from the user terminal 20 preferably includes information on the type of service requested by the mobile unit, information on the quality level, and information on the service level. The network identifying unit 12 can identify an available network based on this request information. Specifically, the network identifying unit 12 may determine communication requirements based on a combination of the service type and quality level included in the request information. Furthermore, the network identifying unit 12 may identify an available network by determining an allowance for when the communication requirements cannot be met based on the service level included in the request information.

[0067] Furthermore, the network identification unit 12 may identify a slice network with available space and identify an available network based on the number of users of the slice network. Specifically, the network identification unit 12 may identify an available network based on the number of users of the slice network or the amount of wireless resources used.

[0068] The number of slice network users or the amount of used wireless resources may be the current situation, but it is preferable to use the situation at the time the mobile object moves. In this case, the network identification unit 12 first predicts the number of slice network users or the amount of used wireless resources at that time based on the time when the mobile object moves to a point on its movement route. The network identification unit 12 can identify an available network based on the predicted number of slice network users or the amount of used wireless resources.

[0069] The network identification unit 12 may further identify the time required for the mobile unit to travel from its current location to a location where the available network is available. In this case, the wireless receiving unit 13 may output the time required identified by the network identification unit 12.

[0070] The network identification unit 12 may also identify an available network that is close to the current location. Furthermore, the network identification unit 12 may calculate the time required to travel from the current location of the mobile body to a point where each available network is available, and identify a slice network with the shortest calculated time required. Note that these processes may be performed only when there are multiple available networks.

[0071] When the location acquisition unit 11 acquires information about a travel route, the network identification unit 12 may identify, from the travel route, the required time if the travel route passes through a point where a provideable network is available. In this case, the output unit 13 may output the required time identified by the network identification unit 12.

[0072] Furthermore, the network identification unit 12 may identify the time required to travel from the travel route to a point where each available network is available, and identify a slice network with a short time required. In this case, the output unit 13 may output information about the slice network with a short time required.

[0073] Based on the location of the mobile body, the switching control unit 14 switches the slice network provided to the mobile body to the slice network indicated by the available network identified by the network identification unit 12. For example, the available network includes information about a slice switching point, and slice switching may be performed based on the slice switching point and the location of the mobile body. That is, the switching control unit 14 may switch the slice network provided to the mobile body to the slice network indicated by the available network based on a switching request sent from the mobile body, depending on the slice switching point set by the network identification unit 12 and the current location of the mobile body.

[0074] The reservation unit 15 reserves a slice network based on the available networks identified by the network identification unit 12 and the location information of the mobile body acquired by the location acquisition unit 11, as well as the location and time to which the mobile body is estimated to move in the future.The above-mentioned switching control unit 14 may switch the slice network provided to the user terminal 20 depending on the result of the reservation.

[0075] 9 is a functional configuration diagram showing a modified example of the functional configuration of the information processing device according to this embodiment. The functional configuration of the information processing device 10A will be described with reference to the same figure. The information processing device 10A is a modified example of the information processing device 10. The information processing device 10A differs from the information processing device 10 in that it further includes a request acquisition unit 16. In the description of the information processing device 10A, components similar to those of the information processing device 10 are denoted by the same reference numerals as those of the information processing device 10, and descriptions thereof may be omitted.

[0076] The request acquisition unit 16 acquires information about network usage from a user. Specifically, the request acquisition unit 16 acquires information about requests regarding planned slice network usage. The information includes at least a scheduled start time of usage, which is the scheduled time to start using the slice network.

[0077] The network identification unit 12 identifies the estimated arrival time when the mobile body moves from its current location to a point where a network that can be provided is available, and identifies the service area of ​​the slice network where the estimated arrival time is earlier than the estimated start time of use as the available network.

[0078] It is preferable that each slice network be assigned in advance the type of location where the slice network is located. Specific examples of the type of location where the slice network is located include a highway, a general road, a station, a shopping mall, a parking lot, and a service area. Furthermore, the request information acquired by the request acquisition unit 16 may include information regarding the type of moving body. Examples of the type of moving body include walking (when a user moves while carrying the user terminal 20), a vehicle, a robot, and an autonomous vehicle. The network identification unit 12 may identify the available network based on the type of moving body and the type of location where the slice network is located.

[0079] FIG. 10 is a functional configuration diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of a position acquisition unit included in the information processing device according to this embodiment. The functional configuration shown in the same figure is an example of the functional configuration of the position acquisition unit 11 described above. In the example shown in the same figure, the position acquisition unit 11 acquires a movement route of the user terminal 20 by searching for a route based on a request acquired from the user terminal 20. Note that this embodiment is not limited to this example, and the user terminal 20 may identify a route by itself and provide the identified route to the information processing device 10. In the example shown in the same figure, the position acquisition unit 11 includes a request acquisition unit 111 and a route identification unit 112.

[0080] The request acquisition unit 111 acquires request information from the user terminal 20. The request information is information including the above-mentioned application information. The request information includes at least the location information and destination of the mobile object, and information regarding the communication quality required by the mobile object.

[0081] The route identification unit 112 identifies one or more travel routes from the departure point to the destination of the acquired mobile object based on the request information acquired by the request acquisition unit 111. Note that the position acquisition unit 11 may also identify the travel route based on map information or the like acquired separately from a server or the like (not shown).

[0082] 11 is a flowchart showing an example of a series of steps in the information processing method according to this embodiment. With reference to the drawing, an example of a series of steps in the information processing method performed by the information processing device 10 when specifying only the current location and searching for communication spots around the current location will be described.

[0083] (Step S101) First, the information processing device 10 acquires location information relating to the current location of the user terminal 20.

[0084] (Step S102) Next, the information processing device 10 identifies an available network, which is a slice network that can be provided in the vicinity of the current location.

[0085] (Step S103) Furthermore, the information processing device 10 outputs the identified available networks to the user terminal 20.

[0086] (Step S104) The information processing device 10 switches the connection destination of the user terminal 20 depending on the current location of the user terminal 20. Specifically, the information processing device 10 may switch the connection destination of the user terminal 20 when the user terminal 20 enters the service area of ​​the identified slice network.

[0087] [Internal configuration] FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing an example of the internal configuration of an information processing device according to this embodiment. The computer shown in FIG. 12 shows an example of a specific hardware configuration for realizing the information processing device 10. The computer includes a central processing unit (processor) 901, a RAM 902, an input / output port 903, input / output devices 904 and 905, and a bus 906. The computer itself can be realized using existing technology. The central processing unit 901 executes instructions contained in a program read from the RAM 902 or the like. In accordance with each instruction, the central processing unit 901 writes data to the RAM 902, reads data from the RAM 902, and performs arithmetic and logical operations. The RAM 902 stores data and programs. Each element included in the RAM 902 has an address and can be accessed using the address. RAM is an abbreviation for "random access memory." The input / output port 903 is a port through which the central processing unit 901 exchanges data with external input / output devices. The input / output devices 904 and 905 are input / output devices. Input / output devices 904 and 905 exchange data with the central processing unit 901 via an input / output port 903. A bus 906 is a common communication path used within the computer. For example, the central processing unit 901 reads and writes data from and to the RAM 902 via the bus 906. Also, for example, the central processing unit 901 accesses the input / output port via the bus 906. All or part of the information processing device 10 may be realized using hardware such as an ASIC, a PLD, or an FPGA. All or part of each functional unit may be realized by a combination of software and hardware.

[0088] [Summary of the embodiment] According to the embodiment described above, the information processing device 10 includes a location acquisition unit 11 to acquire information on the current location of the mobile unit, a network identification unit 12 to identify available networks that are slice networks that can be provided in the vicinity of the current location of the mobile unit based on the service areas of multiple slice networks that virtually divide a wireless communication network, and an output unit 13 to output information on the identified available networks. By adopting such a configuration, it is possible to provide the user with information on locations that provide high-quality communication that the user desires, as well as the distance and travel time to those locations.

[0089] The above-described embodiment makes it possible to "provide high-quality communications to users." Therefore, this embodiment can contribute to Goal 9 of the United Nations-led Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which is to "build resilient infrastructure, promote sustainable industrialization, and foster innovation."

[0090] Although an embodiment of the present invention has been described in detail above with reference to the drawings, the specific configuration is not limited to this embodiment, and design changes and the like are also included within the scope that does not deviate from the gist of the present invention.

[0091] Furthermore, a computer program for implementing the functions of each of the above-described devices may be recorded on a computer-readable recording medium, and the program recorded on the recording medium may be read and executed by a computer system. Note that the term "computer system" may also include hardware such as an OS and peripheral devices. Furthermore, the term "computer-readable recording medium" refers to a storage device such as a flexible disk, a magneto-optical disk, a ROM, a writable nonvolatile memory such as a flash memory, a portable medium such as a DVD (Digital Versatile Disc), or a hard disk built into a computer system.

[0092] Furthermore, the term "computer-readable recording medium" also includes a storage medium that stores a program for a certain period of time, such as a volatile memory (e.g., DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory)) within a computer system that serves as a server or client when the program is transmitted via a network such as the Internet or a communication line such as a telephone line. The program may also be transmitted from a computer system that stores the program in a storage device or the like to another computer system via a transmission medium or by transmission waves within the transmission medium. Here, the "transmission medium" that transmits the program refers to a medium that has the function of transmitting information, such as a network (communication network) such as the Internet or a communication line (communication line) such as a telephone line. The program may also be a program that realizes part of the aforementioned functions. Furthermore, the program may be a so-called differential file (differential program) that can realize the aforementioned functions in combination with a program already stored in the computer system. [Explanation of symbols]

[0093] 1...information processing system, 10...information processing device, 20...user terminal, 30...vehicle, 11...position acquisition unit, 12...network identification unit, 13...output unit, 14...switching control unit, 15...reservation unit, 16...request acquisition unit, 111...request acquisition unit, 112...route identification unit, NW...information communication network, S...departure point, G...destination, R...route

Claims

1. a location acquisition unit that acquires location information of a moving object; A network identification unit that identifies an available network, which is a slice network that can be provided in the vicinity of the location of the mobile station, based on the coverage areas of multiple slice networks that are virtually divided from a wireless communication network; an output unit that outputs information about the identified available network; Equipped with the network identification unit identifies a required time for moving from the location of the mobile body to a point where the available network is available; the output unit outputs the required time identified by the network identification unit. Information processing device.

2. Further provided is a request acquisition unit that acquires information regarding a request for planned slice network use, the information including at least a planned start time of use, which is a time when the use of the slice network is scheduled to start; The network identification unit identifies an estimated time of arrival when the mobile body moves from its location to a point where the available network is available, and identifies, as the available network, a slice network service area where the identified estimated time of arrival is earlier than the estimated start time of use. The information processing device according to claim 1 .

3. Each slice network is assigned in advance the type of location where the slice network exists, The network identification unit identifies the available network based on the type of the moving object and the type of location where the slice network is located. The information processing device according to claim 1 .

4. the location acquisition unit acquires information about a route including at least location information of the mobile object and information about a destination; the network identification unit identifies the available network in the vicinity of the route; The information processing device according to claim 1 .

5. the network identification unit identifies, from the route, a required time when passing through a point where the available network is available; the output unit outputs the required time identified by the network identification unit. The information processing device according to claim 4 .

6. The position acquisition unit a request acquisition unit that acquires request information, which is information about the location information and destination of the mobile unit, and communication quality required by the mobile unit; a route specifying unit that specifies one or more routes that connect the acquired location of the moving object and a destination, passing through at least one slice network service area based on the request information; By providing the above, information regarding a route including at least location information of the mobile body and information regarding a destination is acquired. The information processing device according to claim 4 .

7. The network identification unit identifies a slice network that satisfies a communication quality equal to or higher than the communication quality included in the request information as the available network. The information processing device according to claim 6 .

8. the request information includes information on the type of service requested by the mobile unit, information on a quality level, and information on a service level; the network specifying unit determines communication requirements based on a combination of the type of service and the quality level included in the request information, and specifies the available network by determining an allowance for when the communication requirements cannot be satisfied based on the service level included in the request information. The information processing device according to claim 6 .

9. The network identification unit identifies the available network based on the number of users of the slice network or the amount of wireless resources used. The information processing device according to claim 1 .

10. The network identification unit predicts the number of users of the slice network or the amount of wireless resources being used at the estimated arrival time based on the estimated arrival time when the mobile body moves to the available network, and identifies the available network based on the predicted number of users of the slice network or the amount of wireless resources being used. The information processing device according to claim 9 .

11. The mobile station further includes a reservation unit that reserves the slice network based on the available network and a location and time to which the mobile unit is estimated to move in the future based on the location information of the mobile unit acquired by the location acquisition unit. The information processing device according to claim 1 .

12. An information processing method performed using a computer, a location acquisition step of acquiring information on the current location of the mobile object; A network identification process for identifying an available network, which is a slice network that can be provided in the vicinity of the current location of the mobile object, based on the coverage areas of a plurality of slice networks obtained by virtually dividing a wireless communication network; an output step of outputting information about the identified available network; and the network identification step identifies a required time for moving from a location of the mobile body to a point where the available network is available; the output step outputs the required time identified by the network identification step. Information processing methods.

13. On the computer, a location acquisition step of acquiring information on the current location of the mobile object; a network identification step of identifying an available network, which is a slice network that can be provided in the vicinity of the current location of the mobile object, based on the coverage areas of a plurality of slice networks obtained by virtually dividing a wireless communication network; an output step of outputting information about the identified available network; Execute the network identification step identifies a time required for moving from a location of the mobile unit to a point where the available network is available; the output step outputs the required time identified in the network identification step. program.

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