Toll collection system, toll collection system monitoring method and program

Abstract

To provide a toll collection system, a method of monitoring the toll collection system, and a program that enable simple preparation of a report.SOLUTION: A toll collection system includes a lane control device and a monitoring device. The lane control device controls a controlled unit having an entry detection unit for detecting the entry of a vehicle into a predetermined lane, an exit detection unit for detecting the exit of the vehicle from the lane, a vehicle identification unit for identifying the vehicle, a toll collection unit for collecting tolls, and a communication unit for conducting communication between the vehicle side and the monitoring device side, acquires predetermined information from the controlled unit, and transmits lane information including at least vehicle identification information based on the predetermined information toward the monitoring device. The monitoring device includes: a receiving unit for receiving the lane information from the lane control unit; a determination unit for determining whether or not a predetermined report needs to be prepared based on at least the lane information; and a notification unit for issuing a notification to prompt a user to prepare the report when it is determined that the report needs to be prepared.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a toll collection system, a method and a program for monitoring a toll collection system. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses the following image layout device, which aims to create a content-rich compilation by reflecting not only images but also audio and text accompanying the video in the layout. That is, the image layout device described in Patent Document 1 includes a video acquisition unit that acquires video, a voice recognition unit that performs voice recognition based on audio information accompanying the video acquired by the video acquisition unit and outputs text information that is the recognition result, an image selection unit that selects an image from a plurality of still images that make up the video acquired by the video acquisition unit, and an image layout unit that lays out the text information from the voice recognition unit and the selected image selected by the image selection unit. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2004-120127 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] Patent Document 1 cites an album as an example of a compilation combining images and text information. However, when considering a report as another example of a compilation combining images and text information, consideration of the selection and layout of images and text information is important, and there are times when it is important to determine whether or not a report should be created. For example, when creating a report about an event that occurred while monitoring a certain system, it may be necessary to determine whether or not the event requires the creation of a report. In this case, creating a report requires appropriately laying out images and text information according to the report content corresponding to the event and appropriately determining whether or not the report should be created, which can lead to a problem of making the report complicated.

[0005] The present disclosure has been made to solve the above-mentioned problem, and aims to provide a toll collection system, a method for monitoring a toll collection system, and a program that can easily create reports. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In order to solve the above problems, the toll collection system of the present disclosure comprises a lane control device and a monitoring device, wherein the lane control device controls a controlled device having an entry detection unit that detects a vehicle entering a specified lane, a departure detection unit that detects the vehicle exiting the lane, a vehicle identification unit that identifies the vehicle, a toll collection unit that collects tolls, and a call unit for conducting calls between the vehicle side and the monitoring device side, and acquires specified information from the controlled device and transmits lane information including at least the identification information of the vehicle based on the specified information to the monitoring device, and the monitoring device comprises a receiving unit that receives the lane information from the lane control device, a judgment unit that judges whether or not it is necessary to create a specified report based on at least the lane information, and a notification unit that issues a notification urging the user to create the report if it is determined that it is necessary to create the report.

[0007] The monitoring method for a toll collection system according to the present disclosure is a monitoring method for a toll collection system that includes a lane control device and a monitoring device, and includes the steps of detecting, under the control of the lane control device, the entry of a vehicle into a specified lane, detecting the exit of the vehicle from the lane, identifying the vehicle, collecting a toll, conducting a call between the vehicle and the monitoring device, acquiring specified information, transmitting lane information based on the specified information including at least identification information of the vehicle to the monitoring device, receiving the lane information from the lane control device in the monitoring device, determining whether or not it is necessary to create a specified report based on at least the lane information, and issuing a notification urging the creation of the report if it is determined that it is necessary to create the report.

[0008] The program of the present disclosure causes a computer to execute the following steps in a toll collection system equipped with a lane control device and a monitoring device: under the control of the lane control device, detecting the entry of a vehicle into a specified lane; detecting the exit of the vehicle from the lane; identifying the vehicle; collecting a toll; conducting a call between the vehicle and the monitoring device; acquiring specified information; transmitting lane information based on the specified information and including at least identification information of the vehicle to the monitoring device; receiving the lane information from the lane control device in the monitoring device; determining whether or not it is necessary to create a specified report based on at least the lane information; and, if it is determined that it is necessary to create the report, issuing a notification urging the creation of the report. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to the toll collection system, toll collection system monitoring method, and program of the present disclosure, reports can be easily created. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram illustrating the overall configuration of a toll collection system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] 1 is a diagram illustrating a functional configuration of a toll collection system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a typical flow from vehicle entry to exit in a toll collection system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation of a monitoring device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a display example of a monitoring device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a display example of a monitoring device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a display example of a monitoring device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a display example of a monitoring device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a display example of a monitoring device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a use case (with call) in a toll collection system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a use case (without calling) in a toll collection system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 12] FIG. 1 is a schematic block diagram illustrating a configuration of a computer according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] Hereinafter, a toll collection system, a toll collection system monitoring method, and a program according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating the overall configuration of a toll collection system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating the functional configuration of a toll collection system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a typical flow from vehicle entry to exit in a toll collection system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation of a monitoring device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIGS. 5 to 9 are diagrams illustrating example displays in a monitoring device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a use case (with call) in a toll collection system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of a use case (without call) in a toll collection system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 12 is a schematic block diagram illustrating the configuration of a computer according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Note that the same or corresponding components in each drawing are designated by the same reference numerals, and descriptions thereof will be omitted as appropriate.

[0012] (Configuration of Toll Collection System 1) As shown in FIG. 1, a toll collection system 1 according to this embodiment is installed, for example, at a toll booth (entrance or exit toll booth) of a toll road, and collects tolls from both ETC vehicles and non-ETC vehicles traveling on a lane L connecting the toll road and an ordinary road. Here, ETC (registered trademark) (Electronic Toll Collection System) is an electronic toll collection system. An ETC vehicle is a vehicle equipped with an on-board unit for ETC, and a non-ETC vehicle is a vehicle not equipped with an on-board unit. Note that FIG. 1 illustrates a vehicle A equipped with an on-board unit α (however, vehicle A includes ETC vehicles and non-ETC vehicles).

[0013] In this embodiment, an example will be described in which the toll collection system 1 is installed at an exit toll gate. Hereinafter, the direction in which the lane L extends (±X direction) will be referred to as the "lane direction." The toll road side of the lane direction (-X side) will also be referred to as the "upstream side," and the general road side (+X side) will also be referred to as the "downstream side." Furthermore, the width direction of the lane L (±Y direction) will be referred to as the "lane width direction."

[0014] 1 shows an example in which only one lane L is provided at the toll gate, but this is not limiting. In other embodiments, multiple lanes L may be provided at the toll gate.

[0015] As shown in Figure 1, the toll collection system 1 includes an ETC facility 2, an automatic toll collection machine 3, a lane control device 10, and a monitoring device 11. The toll collection system 1 also includes vehicle detectors S1-1, S1-2, S2, S4-1, and S4-2, a vehicle type discrimination device 4, a departure controller 25, a lane barrier 26, a lane monitoring control panel 27, an entrance light 51, a lane indicator panel 52, a loudspeaker 53, a lane monitoring camera 6, and a toll gate data server 12. The monitoring device 11 is installed in a management office 71 located away from the toll collection system 1. The toll gate data server 12 is installed in a toll gate office 72.

[0016] The ETC equipment 2 is a group of devices that executes a toll collection process to automatically collect tolls from ETC vehicle A equipped with an on-board unit α via wireless communication. Specifically, the ETC equipment 2 includes, for example, a roadside wireless device (also referred to as a roadside antenna) 21, an intercom slave 22, etc., and executes toll collection process under the control of a lane control device 10 in cooperation with vehicle detectors S1-1, S1-2, S2, S4-1, and S4-2, a vehicle type discrimination device 4, etc. The ETC equipment 2 can also be considered as a configuration including the lane control device 10, vehicle detectors S1-1, S1-2, S2, S4-1, and S4-2, the vehicle type discrimination device 4, etc. The intercom slave 22 is installed on island I near and upstream of the start control device 25, and performs voice communication between, for example, vehicle A that has not been able to properly collect tolls and the monitoring device 11. For example, the driver of vehicle A or the like presses the call button on the intercom handset 22, and an operator such as a collector on the monitoring device 11 side answers the call, thereby starting a call.

[0017] Vehicle detectors S1-1 and S1-2 are installed on islands I provided on both sides of lane L at vehicle detection positions next to lane barrier 26 on the most upstream side (-X side) in the lane direction, and detect vehicles entering lane L. Vehicle detectors S1-1 and S1-2 are, for example, transmission-type vehicle detectors as shown in FIG. 1, and have a pair of a light emitter and a light receiver installed opposite each other across lane L. Vehicle detectors S1-1 and S1-2 output detection signals that can distinguish the presence or absence of a vehicle at the entry detection position based on whether the light receiver receives light emitted from the light emitter. Vehicle detectors S1-1 and S1-2 output detection signals indicating that no vehicle is present at the entry detection position while the light receiver receives light. On the other hand, vehicle detectors S1-1 and S1-2 output detection signals indicating that a vehicle is present at the entry detection position while the light receiver does not receive light. The vehicle detectors S1-1 and S1-2 are arranged in a double row to detect forward and backward movement of the vehicle.

[0018] The roadside device 21 is installed above the road surface downstream (+X side) of the vehicle detectors S1-1 and S1-2 in the lane direction. When the vehicle detectors S1-1 and S1-2 detect that a vehicle has entered the lane L, the roadside device 21 emits radio waves for wireless communication toward a predetermined communication area R1 on the lane L. For example, as shown in FIG. 1, the communication area R1 is set to the range from the vehicle detectors S1-1 and S1-2 to the vehicle detector S2. The roadside device 21 transmits and receives various commands and information for executing toll collection processing to and from the on-board device α of the ETC vehicle A present within the communication area R1 via wireless communication.

[0019] The vehicle type discrimination device 4 includes a front photographing unit 41, an image processing unit 42, and an axle number detector 43. The front photographing unit 41 is a photographing device that photographs in the -X direction and photographs a front image of vehicle A. The image processing unit 42 recognizes the license plate information of vehicle A based on the front image of vehicle A photographed by the front photographing unit 41. The axle detection unit 43 detects the number of axles of vehicle A. The vehicle type discrimination device 4 discriminates the vehicle type of vehicle A based on the information recognized by the image processing unit 42 and the information detected by the axle detection unit 43, and transmits the photographed image and information indicating the discriminated vehicle type to the lane control device 10.

[0020] The vehicle detector S2 is installed on the island I at a communication end position downstream (+X side) of the roadside device 21 in the lane direction, and detects the passage of a vehicle. The vehicle detector S2 has the same device configuration as the vehicle detectors S1-1 and S1-2. When the vehicle detector S2 detects that a vehicle has passed, the roadside device 21 stops emitting radio waves.

[0021] The lane control device 10 executes a toll collection process to collect a toll from ETC vehicle A. For example, the lane control device 10 acquires information including the model of ETC vehicle A, the position (entrance toll gate) and date and time when ETC vehicle A entered the toll road, and the method of payment for the toll (credit card number, etc.) from the on-board device α via the roadside wireless device 21, and performs processes such as calculation and settlement of the toll according to the model and mileage of ETC vehicle A based on this information. The lane control device 10 may be installed on island I as shown in FIG. 1 or in the toll gate office 72.

[0022] In addition, in this embodiment, the lane control device 10 acquires sensor information, image information, discrimination information, identification information, call data, fraud information (described later), etc. acquired or generated by vehicle detectors S1-1, S1-2, S2, S4-1 and S4-2, vehicle type discrimination device 4, lane monitoring camera 6, automatic toll collection machine 3, etc., and transmits them to the monitoring device 11 and the toll booth data server 12.

[0023] The departure controller 25 is installed on island I downstream (+X side) of the automatic toll collector 3 in the lane direction. The departure controller 25 opens (allows vehicles to pass) or closes (restricts vehicle passage) lane L by raising and lowering the opening and closing bar in accordance with opening and closing commands from the lane control device 10 and the automatic toll collector 3. When the lane control device 10 completes the toll collection process, it outputs an opening command to the departure controller 25 to allow the vehicle to pass. Furthermore, when the lane control device 10 detects a vehicle leaving lane L using vehicle detectors S4-1 and S4-2 (described later), it outputs a closing command to the departure controller 25 to restrict the passage of following vehicles. Similarly, when the automatic toll collector 3 collects toll from a non-ETC vehicle during the toll collection process, it outputs an opening command to the departure controller 25 to allow the vehicle to pass. Furthermore, when the automatic toll collection machine 3 receives an instruction to end the toll collection process, it outputs a close command to the departure control device 25 to restrict the passage of following vehicles.

[0024] Vehicle detectors S4-1 and S4-2 are installed on island I at the exit detection position on the most downstream side (+X side) in the lane direction, and detect the passage of vehicles (exiting from lane L). Vehicle detectors S4-1 and S4-2 have the same equipment configuration as vehicle detectors S1-1 and S1-2.

[0025] 1 shows an example in which the vehicle detectors S1-1, S1-2, S2, S4-1, and S4-2 are transmission-type vehicle detectors, but the present invention is not limited to this. In other embodiments, the vehicle detectors may be reflection-type vehicle detectors.

[0026] The automatic toll collector 3 executes a toll collection process to collect tolls from non-eligible vehicles that cannot receive tolls through the toll collection process by the ETC equipment 2. Non-eligible vehicles are non-ETC vehicles that are not equipped with an on-board unit α. Among ETC vehicles A, there are normal ETC vehicles A that can correctly collect tolls through the toll collection process, and abnormal ETC vehicles A that cannot collect tolls through the toll collection process. Therefore, the non-eligible vehicles include abnormal ETC vehicles A. Cases in which the toll collection process for ETC vehicle A does not end normally include a malfunction of the ETC equipment 2 or on-board unit α, a communication error, the expiration of the credit card inserted in the on-board unit α, a missing card, a mismatch between the vehicle type registered in the on-board unit α and the vehicle type identified by the vehicle type identification device 4, and the like. If the toll collection process for ETC vehicle A does not end normally, fraud information indicating the failure to end normally is transmitted from the lane control device 10 to the monitoring device 11.

[0027] As shown in Fig. 1, the automatic toll collection machine 3 is installed on an island I downstream (+X side) of the vehicle detector S2 in the lane direction and upstream (-X side) of the departure control device 25. For example, the automatic toll collection machine 3 is positioned so as to coincide with the position of the driver's seat of a vehicle stopped in front of the departure control device 25 (-X side) when the opening and closing bar of the departure control device 25 is closed.

[0028] The automatic toll collection machine 3 includes an operation reception unit, an intercom handset 31, a confirmation camera 32, a certificate camera 33, and a left-hand drive intercom handset 34, all of which are not shown. The operation reception unit receives operations by passengers of non-ETC vehicles, toll payments, etc. For example, the operation reception unit has a toll ticket insertion slot for inserting a toll ticket, a cash slot for accepting cash payments, a change return slot for dispensing change, a card insertion slot for inserting an IC card (such as a credit card), etc.

[0029] The intercom handset 31 and the left-hand drive intercom handset 34 perform voice calls between the vehicle side and the monitoring device 11 side. For example, a call is started when the driver of the vehicle or the like presses a call button on the intercom handset 31 or the left-hand drive intercom handset 34 and an operator on the monitoring device 11 side answers the call. The confirmation camera 32 captures video of the driver or other operator at the operation reception unit and transmits the captured image (video) information to the lane control device 10. The certificate camera 33 is installed at the pass ticket insertion slot and captures, for example, a transfer certificate when a road is closed.

[0030] The lane barrier 26 opens (allows vehicles to pass) or closes (restricts vehicle passage) the lane L by raising or lowering the barrier in accordance with opening or closing commands from the lane control device 10. The entrance lights 51 allow or restrict passage through the lane L by switching the display of the entrance lights in accordance with control commands from the lane control device 10. The lane display panel 52 displays the operating status of the lane L (closed, ETC-only, etc.) under the control of the lane control device 10. The loudspeaker 53 outputs, for example, a predetermined sound under the control of the lane control device 10. The lane monitoring camera 6 captures images of the lane L and transmits the captured image (video) information to the lane control device 10. The lane monitoring control panel 27 controls the lane display panel 52, lane barrier 26, etc. when remote control by the monitoring device 11, etc. is lost. The toll booth data server 12 is configured using a computer such as a personal computer equipped with an input unit and a display unit, and receives monitoring data, history information, information representing the forward image of vehicle A, etc. from the lane control device 10, displays it on the display unit, and transmits specified information such as the history information and information representing the forward image of vehicle A to the monitoring device 11.

[0031] (Functional configuration of toll collection system 1) FIG. 2 shows the functional configuration of the toll collection system 1. However, some components of the toll collection system 1 are not shown in FIG. 2. As shown in FIG. 2, the lane control device 10 is communicatively connected to, for example, vehicle detectors S1-1, S1-2, S4-1, and S4-2, a vehicle discrimination device 4, a lane monitoring camera 6, an automatic toll collector 3, and an electronic toll collection system 2 via a communication line N1. The lane control device 10 is also communicatively connected to a monitoring device 11 via a communication line N2. The communication line N1 is, for example, a communication line in a wired communication network, and the communication line N2 includes, for example, a communication line in a wired or wireless public network, the Internet, or the like. In the example shown in FIG. 2, in the toll collection system 1, the vehicle detectors S1-1 and S1-2 constitute an entry detection unit 81 as a functional component. The vehicle detectors S4-1 and S4-2 constitute a departure detection unit 82 as a functional component. Furthermore, the vehicle discrimination device 4 constitutes a vehicle identification unit 83 as a functional configuration. Furthermore, the automatic toll collection machine 3 and the electronic toll collection system 2 constitute a toll collection unit 84 as a functional configuration. Furthermore, the intercom handset 31, the left-hand drive intercom handset 34, and the intercom handset 22 constitute a call unit 85 as a functional configuration. Furthermore, the front photographing unit 41 and the lane monitoring camera 6 constitute a photographing unit 86 as a functional configuration. In this embodiment, the lane control device 10 controls the controlled unit 80, which is a functional configuration that includes each of the units 81 to 85. In this case, the controlled unit 80 has each of the units 81 to 85. Note that the controlled unit 80 may or may not have the photographing unit 86. The photographing unit 86 outputs to the lane control device 10 image information representing one or more images of vehicle A photographed by at least one of a photographing device (e.g., the forward photographing unit 41) included in the controlled unit 80 having each unit 81 to 85 or a photographing device (e.g., the lane monitoring camera 6) separate from the controlled unit 80.

[0032] In this embodiment, the entry detection unit 81 detects vehicle A entering a predetermined lane L. The departure detection unit 82 detects vehicle A exiting lane L. The vehicle identification unit 83 identifies vehicle A's identification information, such as the vehicle model and license plate information of vehicle A. The license plate information includes, for example, information representing each character printed on the license plate, information representing the color of the character and background, and information representing the size of the license plate. The toll collection unit 84 collects tolls. The communication unit 85 executes communication between vehicle A and the monitoring device 11. The lane control device 10 controls the controlled unit 80 having these units 81 to 85, acquires predetermined information from the controlled unit 80, and transmits lane information including at least vehicle A's identification information based on the predetermined information to the monitoring device 11. The lane control device 10 also transmits image information representing one or more images of vehicle A captured by the imaging unit 86 to the monitoring device 11.

[0033] In this embodiment, lane information refers to information transmitted from the lane control device 10 to the monitoring device 11, and includes information acquired by the lane control device 10 from each of the units 81 to 86, information generated based on the information acquired from each of the units 81 to 86, and preset information. The lane information includes, for example, entry date and time, exit date and time, vehicle type, number of axles, fraud information, license plate information (read license plate information), vehicle identifier, information indicating the type of toll collection process (ETC type), information indicating whether or not the vehicle is a public service vehicle, information indicating whether or not a discounted date is set, call data, and image data. The lane information may also include information indicating the route name, route number, toll gate name, toll gate number, lane number, and the like. An official vehicle is a vehicle that travels free of charge while on official business. Whether or not a vehicle is an official service vehicle can be determined automatically or manually based on the vehicle's appearance, or based on an image captured using the automatic toll collection machine 3 or the content of a call. Furthermore, the fraud information is, for example, information indicating the occurrence of an event such as a normal ETC (a vehicle that passes all validity checks in the electronic toll collection system), a non-ETC (no on-board unit installed), no IC card inserted, an invalid IC card, a communication reading error, a mismatch with license plate information, a suspected vehicle model mismatch (a mismatch between the vehicle model of the on-board unit and the vehicle model identification device), a false entry (a vehicle that has entered and then backs up), or an exit before normal toll collection (a fleeing vehicle, a forced breakthrough, etc.). The vehicle identifier is, for example, the ID (identification information) of the on-board unit α, the ID of the IC card, etc. The license plate information and vehicle identifier information are examples of vehicle identification information related to the present disclosure.

[0034] The monitoring device 11 is configured using a computer such as a personal computer or tablet terminal equipped with an input unit, a display unit, etc., or a server connected to peripheral devices such as a display unit, an input device, and a printer, and is equipped with the following units as a functional configuration formed by a combination of software and hardware: That is, the monitoring device 11 is equipped with a receiving unit 111, a determining unit 112, a notifying unit 113, a determining unit 114, a creating unit 115, a calling unit 116, a display unit 117, an input unit 118, and a memory unit 119 as a functional configuration.

[0035] The receiving unit 111 receives lane information from the lane control device 10. The determining unit 112 determines whether or not it is necessary to create a predetermined report based on at least the lane information. The determining unit 112 may determine whether or not it is necessary to create a predetermined report based on, for example, the lane information and an input operation by an operator. When it is determined that it is necessary to create a report, the notifying unit 113 notifies the operator via, for example, the display unit 117, urging them to create the report.

[0036] The determination unit 114 determines a report creation format containing predetermined input information based on at least the lane information. Note that for the first to fourth formats described below, the conditions for determining whether to create a report differ for each creation format. In this case, if it is determined that creation is necessary, the creation format is automatically determined based on the established conditions. In this case, the determination by the determination unit 112 and the determination by the determination unit 114 are made simultaneously. However, for example, if the conditions for determining whether to create a report do not correspond one-to-one to the creation format, after the determination unit 112 determines that creation is necessary, the determination unit 114 determines the creation format based on other conditions. For example, when a report is created when some kind of fraudulent information has occurred and a different creation format is selected based on the content of the fraudulent information, the necessity of creation is determined based on the presence or absence of fraudulent information, and then the creation format is determined based on the type and content of the fraudulent information.

[0037] In this embodiment, the creation format refers to the format of the report, and is information that indicates the report title, the types and number of items (images and text information) to be described, the arrangement of the images and text information, and the like. The determination unit 114 determines the creation format to be used by, for example, selecting a creation format from multiple creation formats prepared in advance according to the report title (report content) based on lane information and operator instructions. The input information is information manually input by the operator (manually input information). In this embodiment, information automatically input into the report by the monitoring device 11 is referred to as automatically input information. The input information may include only manually input information, or may include both manually input information and automatically input information. The input information items may include, for example, items defined in advance in the creation format and items arbitrarily determined by the operator. The creation unit 115 creates report data (e.g., a report file) including the input information and at least a portion of the lane information according to the determined creation format. The creation format may further include image information as its content in addition to the input information.

[0038] The results of the judgment by the judgment unit 112 and the results of the decision by the decision unit 114 are stored in the storage unit 119, for example, linked to the vehicle identification information, etc. This allows a report to be created later using the judgment results and decision results that have already been processed, even if the creation by the creation unit 114 is temporarily suspended.

[0039] The call unit 116 transmits and receives call data to and from the call unit 85 using a microphone, speaker, headset, etc. The display unit 117 displays images and text based on information acquired from the lane control device 10, displays an input screen for inputting input information, and displays reports created by the creation unit 115. The input unit 118 accepts input operations from an operator using a mouse, keyboard, touch panel, etc., and inputs input information to be written in reports, inputs instructions to remotely operate the lane control device 10, and accepts input operations to select display content. The memory unit 119 stores software such as programs and data that constitute each functional configuration, information representing multiple types of creation formats, information received from the lane control device 10, report data representing created reports, and other information.

[0040] The determination unit 112 determines that a report needs to be created, for example, when a predetermined time or more has passed since the call in response to the call from the call unit 85 until the vehicle exits. The determination unit 112 also determines that a report needs to be created, for example, when the lane information includes information that the vehicle's exit was detected before the toll was successfully collected. The determination unit 112 also determines that a report needs to be created, for example, when the lane information includes information that the vehicle is a business vehicle. The determination unit 112 also determines that a report needs to be created, for example, when the call unit 113 responds to a call from the call unit 85. The determination of whether or not a report needs to be created can be performed by combining multiple methods in any combination.

[0041] (Example of operation of toll collection system 1) Next, an example of the operation of the toll collection system 1 will be described with reference to Figures 3 to 10. Figure 3 shows an example of a typical flow from vehicle entry to exit in the toll collection system 1. The example shown in Figure 3 corresponds to a case where toll collection by the electronic toll collection system 2 cannot be performed normally, a call is made by the call unit 85, and after the call is made, a stagnation occurs for more than a predetermined time (a state in which the vehicle that entered does not exit), and then toll collection is performed and the vehicle exits.

[0042] In the example shown in FIG. 3, first, ETC vehicle A enters (step S10), then the vehicle's model, identification information, etc. are identified (step S11), and some kind of fraudulent information is generated (step S12). Next, collection processing is started (step S13), but is not completed normally, and a call is generated from the communication unit 85 (step S14). Next, an operator in the monitoring device 11 answers the call, and a voice call is made (step S15). After this, a dwell time of more than a predetermined time occurs (step S16), and collection is completed using, for example, the automatic toll collection machine 3 (step S17), and the vehicle exits (step S18). In some cases, fraudulent information may be confirmed after the vehicle exits (step S19).

[0043] In this embodiment, the following four types of report creation formats (referred to as first to fourth formats) are prepared in advance.

[0044] (1) Form 1 is a report creation format for informing users of vehicles requiring caution. For example, this is a report creation format for reporting information to be disseminated to toll collectors (operators) to prevent the same fraud, complaint, etc. from occurring if the same vehicle enters another toll gate in the future. Form 1 includes, for example, automatically input information (character strings, symbols, etc.) such as a title indicating that the report is about information intended for dissemination, and manually input information (manual input information input fields) about detailed circumstances and points to note regarding fraud, complaints, etc. As described above, automatically input information is information automatically input into the report by the monitoring device 11. Input information is information input by an operator, etc. A report based on Form 1 is determined to need to be created, for example, when a call is made from a lane and a vehicle is stuck for a certain period of time or longer after the voice call is made. In other words, when a call is made from a lane and a vehicle is stuck for a certain period of time or longer after the voice call is made, creation of a report based on Form 1 is triggered.

[0045] (2) The second form is a report creation format for reporting on fleeing vehicles. The purpose of creating a report on fleeing vehicles is, for example, to record information for reporting or statistics, or to compile information for re-collection. The second form includes, for example, automatically input information (character strings, symbols, etc.) such as a title indicating that it is a report on a fleeing vehicle, automatically input information such as an image of the vehicle's appearance, license plate number, and unpaid amount information (including discount information), and manually input information such as the details of the fraud and the reason for the escape. A report based on the second form is determined to need to be created, for example, when the fraud information received from the lane control device 10 corresponds to a fleeing vehicle.

[0046] (3) The third form is a report creation format for reporting information on official vehicles, etc. The purpose of creating a report on official vehicles, etc. is, for example, to record information for reporting or statistics. The third form includes, for example, automatically input information (character strings, symbols, etc.) such as a title indicating that it is a report on official vehicles, etc., an image of the vehicle's appearance, automatically input information such as the license plate number, and manually input information such as the type of official vehicle. A report based on the third form is determined to need to be created, for example, when lane information indicating that the vehicle is an official vehicle is received from the lane control device 10.

[0047] (4) The fourth form is a report creation format for reporting information about call responses. The purpose of creating a report about call responses is, for example, to record statistics. The fourth form includes, for example, automatically input information (character strings, symbols, etc.) such as a title indicating that it is a report about a call response, an image of the vehicle's appearance, automatically input information such as the license plate number, manually input information such as the reason for the response, the response time, and the time required for further response if a response is required after the call. A report based on the fourth form is determined to need to be created, for example, when information indicating that a call has been made from the communication unit 85 is received from the lane control device 10.

[0048] The type and content of the creation format, the criteria for judgment, etc. are not limited to the above examples.

[0049] Next, an example of the operation of the monitoring device 11 will be described with reference to FIG. 4 and other figures. The flow shown in FIG. 4 shows an example of a process for creating a report for one vehicle. Furthermore, any of the above-mentioned first to fourth formats is selectively used as the creation format. In the process shown in FIG. 4, first, the monitoring device 11 (receiving unit 111) determines whether or not the lane control device 10 has transmitted predetermined information (step S20). If the information has been transmitted (step S20: YES), the monitoring device 11 (receiving unit 111) receives lane information and image information from the lane control device 10 (step S21). On the other hand, if the lane control device 10 has not transmitted the predetermined information (step S20: NO), the monitoring device 11 (receiving unit 111) again determines whether or not the lane control device 10 has transmitted the predetermined information (step S20).

[0050] After step S21, the monitoring device 11 (determination unit 112) determines whether a report needs to be created (step S22). If it is determined that a report is needed (step S23: YES), the monitoring device 11 (determination unit 114) determines the format for creating the report, and the monitoring device 11 (notification unit 113) outputs a notification urging the user to create the report (step S24). On the other hand, if it is not determined that a report is needed (step S23: NO), the process returns to step S20.

[0051] FIG. 5 shows an example of a display on the display unit 117 of the monitoring device 11. The display screen 1171 shown in FIG. 5 includes a display area 1171A for an image captured by the lane monitoring camera 6, a display area 1171B showing the operating status of each device, a display area 117C for information about the toll of an entering vehicle, and a display area 1171D for information for remotely operating the automatic toll collection machine 3 (Multiple and Integrated Toll Collecting Machine (MIC)). Note that in FIGS. 5 to 9, the symbol "○○" represents an arbitrary character string, symbol, or icon. FIG. 6 shows an example of a display on the display unit 117 of the monitoring device 11 when a notification is given that a report needs to be prepared. The display screen 1172 shown in FIG. 6 includes a display area 1172A for information that a report needs to be prepared. The display area 1172A is superimposed on the display screen 1171 shown in FIG. 5. Display area 1172A includes information 1172B indicating that a caution vehicle report (the first format report described above) needs to be created and that the information to be entered is "detailed situation" and "points to note," a "Confirm" button 1172C for proceeding with the process of entering the input information, and a "Cancel" button 1172D for not performing the input process.

[0052] For example, when the "Confirm" button 1172C shown in FIG. 6 is pressed (clicked) (step S25: YES), the monitoring device 11 (notification unit 113) displays information about the vehicle for which the report is to be submitted and prompts the user to input an instruction to create the report (step S26). The display screen 1173 shown in FIG. 7 is an example of a screen displayed when the "Confirm" button 1172C is pressed on the display screen 1172 shown in FIG. 6. The display screen 1173 shown in FIG. 7 includes a display area 1173A for a list of information indicating the entry time, ETC type, vehicle type, license plate information, fraud information, and whether or not a report should be submitted for each vehicle for which a report should be submitted; a display 1173B for highlighting the vehicle for which a report should be submitted as selected; and a "Create Report" button 1173C for instructing the user to submit a report. Here, the ETC type is information indicating whether the vehicle is an ETC vehicle or a non-ETC vehicle, or whether some kind of fraud has occurred in an ETC vehicle.

[0053] When the "Create Report" button 1173C shown in FIG. 7 is pressed (clicked) (step S27: YES), the monitoring device 11 (creation unit 115) requests input of input information (step S28). A display screen 1174 shown in FIG. 8 is an example of a screen displayed when the "Create Report" button 1173C is pressed on the display screen 1173 shown in FIG. 7. The display screen 1174 shown in FIG. 8 includes information 1174A indicating that this is a screen for inputting caution vehicle report items, an input box 1174B for detailed conditions, an input box 1174C for points to note, an input box 1174C for adding an input box for any item (click the + sign to add), an input box 1174E for the title of the automatically attached attached image 1 (1174F) (in this example, "License Plate Image" has been entered as the initial value), a "Save" button 1174G, a "Print Preview" button 1174H, and a "Cancel" button 1174I. The "Save" button 1174G is a button for saving the input contents (input information). The "Print Preview" button 1174H is a button for creating report data and displaying a print image of the report. The "Cancel" button 1174I is a button for interrupting processing and transitioning to the previous screen.

[0054] Next, the monitoring device 11 (creation unit 115) creates report data including the input information, lane information, and image information in accordance with the determined format (step S29), saves or prints the created data (step S30), and terminates the processing shown in FIG. 4. Display screen 1175 shown in FIG. 9 is an example of a screen displayed when "Print Preview" button 1174H is pressed on display screen 1174 shown in FIG. 8. Display screen 1175 shown in FIG. 9 includes a display area 1175A for a print image of the report. Display area 1175A includes, as automatically input information 1175B, the following information: "Reporter (Report ID)," "Report Printing Date and Time," "Report No.," "Route Name," "Lane Name," "Entry Time," "ETC Type," "Vehicle Identifier," "License Plate Information," and "Fraud Information." Display area 1175A also includes a license plate image as image information 1175C. Furthermore, display area 1175A includes, as input information 1175D, information representing "Detailed Status," "Notes," and an arbitrarily set item "△△." Display screen 1175 also includes a "Save" button 1175E, a "Print" button 1175F, and a "Cancel" button 1175G. "Save" button 1175E is a button for saving report data created by creation unit 15 in memory unit 119, etc. "Print" button 1175F is a button for printing the report created by creation unit 15. "Cancel" button 1175G is a button for interrupting processing and transitioning to the previous screen.

[0055] In this way, the monitoring device 11 automatically determines whether or not a report needs to be created. If the monitoring device 11 determines that a report needs to be created, it notifies the user. The monitoring device 11 also automatically determines the report creation format. When an instruction to create a report is issued, the monitoring device 11 displays an input screen for input information according to the determined creation format, and automatically creates report data whose contents include the input information entered on the input screen and the automatically input information. Therefore, according to this embodiment, the burden on the operator can be reduced and report creation can be simplified.

[0056] 7 to 9, the display screens 1173 to 1175 always display a display area 1171A for images captured by the lane monitoring camera 6, a display area 1171B showing the operating status of each device, and a display area 117C for information such as the toll for vehicles entering the lane. That is, the display unit 117 displays information for monitoring along with information for creating a report. Therefore, even during the report creation process, the operator can continue monitoring the lane L based on the information displayed in these display areas.

[0057] Furthermore, if the report creation process cannot be performed immediately at the time of notification, for example, because other vehicles are being monitored, the display screen 1173 can be displayed when the creation process becomes possible, and the report creation process can be resumed by selecting the vehicle for which the report is to be created from the list information display area 1173A.

[0058] Furthermore, the report item input screen 1174 is designed to hide as many "items that are automatically input" as possible, allowing the operator to select and input "items that are not automatically input" (input information). By hiding as many "items that are automatically input" (automatically input information) as possible, the input screen can be simplified. Note that input for each item is performed, for example, by selecting from a pull-down menu or manually inputting using a text box and soft keyboard.

[0059] Items that are automatically entered include, for example, the title, reporter (user name, user ID), report print date and time, report ID (No.), location of incident (route name, route number, tollgate name, tollgate number, lane number), license plate image, vehicle information (entry date and time, ETC type, vehicle type, fraud information, license plate read information), etc. Items that are not automatically entered include, for example, vehicle information (vehicle color, etc.), user information (user name, contact information, license number), content of response, type of official vehicle (police, fire, marine, tax, emergency no ticket), fleeing vehicle (pushing away, following, backing up and slipping through), reason for pushing away (major shift, emergency response dispatched, emergency response patrol / inspection, construction, other lane obstruction), whether or not there was contact with the bar, etc.

[0060] The flow of fraudulent information generation, for example, is as follows: The vehicle detectors (S1-1, S1-2) detect the entry of a vehicle, and the lane control device 10 turns on the roadside wireless device 21. The vehicle is managed (vehicle identifier) ​​based on the time the detectors were turned on (and their serial numbers), and the lane control device 10 notifies the vehicle's entry to the vehicle type discrimination device 4. The vehicle type discrimination device 4 sends vehicle information to the entering vehicle, and the lane control device 10 generates (determines) fraudulent information. If the lane control device 10 cannot accurately identify a fraudulent vehicle, it classifies it as a candidate or suspect. The fraudulent information to which the lane control device 10 assigns a vehicle identifier is sent to the vehicle type discrimination device 4 and linked to the license plate image. The license plate image is stored, for example, in the toll booth data server 12, so the linked information is necessary. If an image is needed for report creation, etc., a search can be performed using the vehicle identifier.

[0061] Next, use cases in which the creation format is the first to fourth formats described above will be described with reference to Fig. 10 and Fig. 11. Fig. 10 shows an example of a use case in which a call is made, and Fig. 11 shows an example of a use case in which a call is not made.

[0062] As shown in Figure 10, if a call is made (S101), and then a collection and exit (S102) occurs, manual input begins in Form 4 (S103). If a call (S101) is followed by an uncollected vehicle and an exit (S104), manual input begins in Form 2 (S105). If a public service vehicle appears (S106) after a call (S101), and then a collection and exit (S107) occurs, manual input begins in Form 3 (S108), and if a delay and exit (S109) occurs, manual input begins in Form 1 (S110). Furthermore, if a holdup occurs following a call (S101) (S111), then collection and exit (S112) will occur, and manual input will begin in the first form (S113), if non-collection and exit (S114) will occur, and manual input will begin in the second form (S115), and if an official vehicle (S116) occurs, manual input will begin in the third form (S117).

[0063] 11, if there is no call (S201), then if a pickup and exit (S202) occurs, it is determined that no report needs to be created (S203). If there is no call (S201) followed by a non-pickup and exit (S204), manual input begins in Form 2 (S205). If there is no call (S201) followed by an official vehicle (S206), then if there is pickup and exit (S207), manual input begins in Form 3 (S208), and if there is a delay and exit (S209), manual input begins in Form 3 (S210). Furthermore, if a delay occurs after no call (S201) (S211), then if a collection and exit (S212) occurs, manual entry will start in the first form (S213), if a non-collection and exit (S214) occurs, manual entry will start in the second form (S215), and if an official vehicle (S216) occurs, manual entry will start in the third form (S217).

[0064] (Action and effect) In the toll collection system 1, and the monitoring method and program for the toll collection system 1 configured as described above, the lane control device 10 acquires predetermined information from the controlled device 80 having the respective units 81 to 85, and transmits lane information including at least the identification information of vehicle A based on the predetermined information to the monitoring device 11, and the monitoring device 11 receives the lane information from the lane control device 10, determines whether or not it is necessary to create a predetermined report based on at least the lane information, and if it determines that it is necessary to create a report, issues a notification urging the creation of the report. Therefore, according to the toll collection system, the monitoring method and program for the toll collection system of the embodiment, the determination of whether or not a report needs to be created can be automated, allowing the creator to create the report easily.

[0065] Furthermore, the monitoring device 11 determines a report creation format that includes predetermined input information as its content based on at least the lane information, and creates report data that includes the input information and at least a part of the lane information according to the determined creation format. With this configuration, the report creation format can be automatically determined and the report can be created.

[0066] Furthermore, the monitoring device 11 determines that a report needs to be created if, for example, a predetermined time or more has passed between the time of the call in response to the call from the call unit 85 and the time of the vehicle exiting. With this configuration, it is possible to automatically determine that a report needs to be created when a relatively long time has passed between the time of the call and the time of the vehicle exiting.

[0067] Furthermore, the monitoring device 11 determines that a report needs to be created if, for example, the lane information includes information indicating that a vehicle has been detected leaving before the toll has been collected normally. With this configuration, it can automatically determine that a report needs to be created when a so-called escape or forced breakthrough occurs.

[0068] Furthermore, the monitoring device 11 determines that a report needs to be created when, for example, the lane information includes information indicating that the vehicle is an official vehicle. With this configuration, it is possible to automatically determine that a report needs to be created when an official vehicle is used.

[0069] Furthermore, the monitoring device 11 determines that it is necessary to create a report when, for example, it responds to a call from the call unit 85. According to this configuration, it is possible to automatically determine that it is necessary to create a report when a call occurs.

[0070] Furthermore, the lane control device 10 can also transmit to the monitoring device 11 image information representing one or more images of the vehicle captured by at least one of an image capturing device included in the controlled device 80 having the respective units 81 to 85 or an image capturing device separate from the controlled device 80, and the creation format can further include the image information as its content. In this case, the control device 11 can create a report including the image information.

[0071] (Other embodiments) Although the embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above in detail with reference to the drawings, the specific configuration is not limited to this embodiment and includes design modifications within the scope of the present disclosure. For example, the creation format does not need to include image information. Furthermore, for example, the creation format determined by the determination unit 114 may be changed in response to an input operation on the input unit 118. Furthermore, the configuration of the toll collection system 1 is not limited to the configuration described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2. For example, the forward and backward movement of a vehicle detected by the vehicle detectors S1-1 and S1-2 may be detected by the axle number detector 43. Furthermore, the number of imaging devices may be further increased.

[0072] (Computer Configuration) FIG. 12 is a schematic block diagram illustrating the configuration of a computer according to at least one embodiment. The computer 90 includes a processor 91 , a main memory 92 , a storage 93 , and an interface 94 . The above-described lane control device 10 and monitoring device 11 are implemented in a computer 90. The operations of the above-described processing units are stored in the form of a program in a storage 93. A processor 91 reads the program from the storage 93, loads it into a main memory 92, and executes the above-described processing in accordance with the program. The processor 91 also allocates storage areas in the main memory 92 corresponding to the above-described storage units in accordance with the program.

[0073] The program may be for realizing some of the functions to be performed by the computer 90. For example, the program may be combined with other programs already stored in storage or other programs implemented in other devices to perform the functions. In other embodiments, the computer may include a custom LSI (Large Scale Integrated Circuit) such as a PLD (Programmable Logic Device) in addition to or instead of the above configuration. Examples of PLDs include PAL (Programmable Array Logic), GAL (Generic Array Logic), CPLD (Complex Programmable Logic Device), and FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array). In this case, some or all of the functions realized by the processor may be realized by the integrated circuit.

[0074] Examples of storage 93 include a hard disk drive (HDD), a solid state drive (SSD), a magnetic disk, a magneto-optical disk, a compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), a digital versatile disc read-only memory (DVD-ROM), and a semiconductor memory. Storage 93 may be an internal medium directly connected to the bus of computer 90, or an external medium connected to computer 90 via interface 94 or a communication line. Furthermore, when this program is distributed to computer 90 via a communication line, computer 90 that receives the program may load the program into main memory 92 and execute the above-described processing. In at least one embodiment, storage 93 is a non-transitory tangible storage medium.

[0075] <Additional Notes> The toll collection system 1 described in each embodiment can be understood, for example, as follows.

[0076] (1) A toll collection system 1 according to a first aspect includes a lane control device 10 and a monitoring device 11. The lane control device 10 controls a controlled device 80 having an entry detection unit 81 that detects the entry of vehicle A into a predetermined lane L, a departure detection unit 82 that detects the exit of vehicle A from lane L, a vehicle identification unit 83 that identifies vehicle A, a toll collection unit 84 that collects tolls, and a call unit 85 for communicating between the vehicle side and the monitoring device side, and acquires predetermined information from the controlled device 80 and transmits lane information including at least the identification information of vehicle A based on the predetermined information to the monitoring device 11. The monitoring device 11 includes a receiving unit 111 that receives the lane information from the lane control device 10, a judgment unit 112 that judges whether or not it is necessary to create a predetermined report based on at least the lane information, and a notification unit 113 that issues a notification urging the user to create the report if it is determined that it is necessary to create the report. According to this aspect and the following aspects, reports can be easily created.

[0077] (2) The toll collection system 1 according to a second aspect is the toll collection system 1 according to (1), wherein the monitoring device 11 includes a determination unit 114 that determines a report creation format including predetermined input information as content based on at least the lane information, and a creation unit 115 that creates report data including the input information and at least a part of the lane information according to the determined creation format. According to this aspect, the report creation format can be automatically determined and the report can be created according to the creation format.

[0078] (3) The toll collection system 1 according to the third aspect is the toll collection system 1 of (1) or (2), in which the judgment unit 112 judges that the report needs to be prepared if a predetermined time or more has passed between the call in response to the call from the call unit and the vehicle exiting.

[0079] (4) The toll collection system 1 according to the fourth aspect is a toll collection system 1 according to any one of (1) to (3), in which the judgment unit 112 judges that the report needs to be created when the lane information includes information indicating that the vehicle has been detected leaving before the toll has been collected successfully.

[0080] (5) The toll collection system 1 according to the fifth aspect is the toll collection system 1 of (1) to (4), in which the judgment unit 112 judges that the report needs to be created when the lane information includes information indicating that the vehicle is an official vehicle.

[0081] (6) The fee collection system 1 according to the sixth aspect is a fee collection system 1 according to any one of (1) to (5), in which the judgment unit 112 judges that the report needs to be created when a call from the call unit is answered.

[0082] (7) The toll collection system 1 according to a seventh aspect is the toll collection system 1 of (1) to (6), wherein the lane control device 10 further transmits to the monitoring device 11 image information representing one or more images of the vehicle A taken by at least one of an image capture device (forward image capture unit 41) included in the controlled unit 80 or an image capture device (lane monitoring camera 6) separate from the controlled unit 80, and the creation format further includes the image information as its content. According to this aspect, the image information can be included in the report. [Explanation of symbols]

[0083] 1. Toll collection system 2...Electronic toll collection system 3...Automatic toll collection machine 4...Vehicle discrimination device 6...Lane monitoring camera 10...Lane control device 11...Monitoring device 22...Intercom handset 31...Intercom handset 34...Intercom handset for left-hand drive vehicles 41...Front shooting section 80…Controlled part 81...Entry detection unit 82...Start detection unit 83...Vehicle Identification Unit 84...Toll collection department 85…Telephone section 86...Photography Department 111...Receiver 112...judgment department 113…Notification department 114...Decision Section 115...Creation Department 116...Telephone section 117...Display section 118...Input section 119...Storage section S1-1, S1-2, S2, S4-1, S4-2...Vehicle detectors

Claims

1. A lane control device and a monitoring device are provided, The lane control device an entry detection unit that detects a vehicle entering a predetermined lane; a departure detection unit that detects the vehicle leaving the lane; a vehicle identification unit for identifying the vehicle; a fee collection unit that collects fees; a call unit for communicating between the vehicle side and the monitoring device side; and acquiring predetermined information from the controlled unit; transmitting lane information including at least identification information of the vehicle based on the predetermined information to the monitoring device; The monitoring device a receiving unit that receives the lane information from the lane control device; a determination unit that determines whether or not a predetermined report needs to be created based on at least the lane information; a notification unit that issues a notification urging the user to create the report when it is determined that the report needs to be created; Equipped with Toll collection system.

2. The monitoring device a determination unit that determines a report creation format including predetermined input information as content based on at least the lane information; a creation unit that creates report data including the input information and at least a part of the lane information according to the determined creation format; Equipped with The toll collection system according to claim 1.

3. The determination unit determines that the report needs to be created when the call from the call unit is answered. The toll collection system according to claim 2.

4. The determination unit determines that the report needs to be created when a predetermined time or more has passed since the call from the call unit was answered until the vehicle exited. The toll collection system according to claim 3.

5. The determination unit further determines that the report needs to be created if the lane information includes information indicating that the exit of the vehicle was detected before the toll was normally collected. The toll collection system according to claim 4.

6. The determination unit further determines that the report needs to be created when the lane information includes information indicating that the vehicle is an official vehicle. The toll collection system according to claim 5.

7. The lane control device further transmits, to the monitoring device, image information representing one or more images of the vehicle captured by at least one of an image capture device included in the controlled unit or an image capture device separate from the controlled unit, The creation format further includes the image information as content. The toll collection system according to claim 6.

8. A monitoring method for a toll collection system including a lane control device and a monitoring device, Under the control of the lane control device, Detecting a vehicle entering a predetermined lane; detecting an exit of the vehicle from the lane; identifying the vehicle; collecting a fee; conducting a call between the vehicle side and the monitoring device side; acquiring predetermined information; transmitting lane information including at least identification information of the vehicle based on the predetermined information to the monitoring device; In the monitoring device, receiving the lane information from the lane control device; determining whether a predetermined report needs to be generated based on at least the lane information; a step of issuing a notification prompting the user to create the report when it is determined that the report needs to be created; A method for monitoring a toll collection system, including:

9. In a toll collection system equipped with a lane control device and a monitoring device, Under the control of the lane control device, Detecting a vehicle entering a predetermined lane; detecting an exit of the vehicle from the lane; identifying the vehicle; collecting a fee; conducting a call between the vehicle side and the monitoring device side; acquiring predetermined information; transmitting lane information including at least identification information of the vehicle based on the predetermined information to the monitoring device; In the monitoring device, receiving the lane information from the lane control device; determining whether a predetermined report needs to be generated based on at least the lane information; a step of issuing a notification prompting the user to create the report when it is determined that the report needs to be created; A program that causes a computer to execute the following.

Images