Road control device, road control method, and program

Abstract

In order to provide information to vehicles traveling on a managed road according to the road conditions of the managed road, this road control device is provided with: a collection unit that collects road information according to the traveling conditions of vehicles traveling on the managed road; a determination unit that determines the road conditions of the managed road using the collected road information; and an output unit that outputs the determination result of the road conditions of the managed road to the vehicles traveling on the managed road.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a road control device or the like that performs road control in accordance with road conditions. [Background technology]

[0002] To ensure smooth movement of people and goods, technologies to prevent traffic congestion are needed. However, despite various existing technologies to prevent and resolve traffic congestion, many traffic congestions still occur. For example, at sag sections where a downhill section turns into an uphill section, vehicles often slow down without realizing they have entered an uphill section, causing following vehicles to brake one after another, resulting in traffic congestion.

[0003] Patent Document 1 discloses a traffic congestion prevention system for preventing congestion at road sags and the like. The system in Patent Document 1 includes a first speed sensor, a second speed sensor, a first display device, a second display device, and a control device. The first speed sensor is installed near an ascent point. The second speed sensor is installed along the road at a point downstream of the ascent point in the direction of vehicle travel. The first display device is installed along the road at a point rearward of the ascent point in the direction of vehicle travel. The second display device is installed along the road at a point rearward of the downstream point in the direction of vehicle travel. The control device switches the signs displayed on the first and second display devices depending on the measurement results of the first and second speed sensors.

[0004] Patent Document 2 discloses a traffic control system that collects driving information from multiple vehicles. The system in Patent Document 2 includes a vehicle control system and a control system. The vehicle control system transmits, as probe information, driving information for a specific section where the vehicle has deviated by a predetermined amount from the target route or target speed of the vehicle, based on the recognition result of the vehicle's driving environment. The control system collects probe information from multiple vehicles and extracts highly reliable information. The control system calculates recommended driving information for passing through the specific section based on the extracted probe information. The control system transmits the calculated recommended driving information. The vehicle control system performs driving control for passing through the specific section based on the recommended driving information for the specific section received from the control system and the recognition information of the driving environment for the specific section. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2005-259046 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2020-154623 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] The method of Patent Document 1 determines the occurrence of traffic congestion according to the average speed of multiple vehicles measured by a first speed sensor and a second speed sensor. Therefore, although the method of Patent Document 1 can notify of traffic congestion that has already occurred, it cannot resolve the traffic congestion because it does not identify the vehicle that is causing the traffic congestion.

[0007] The method of Patent Document 2 determines a section where the vehicle has traveled a predetermined distance away from a target route or target speed as a specific section based on the recognition results of the vehicle's driving environment. The method of Patent Document 2 executes driving control for passing through the specific section using recommended driving information calculated based on highly reliable probe information extracted from multiple vehicles. Therefore, the method of Patent Document 2 cannot execute driving control for a vehicle passing through a specific section where traffic congestion occurs when highly reliable probe information is not available from multiple vehicles.

[0008] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a road control device and the like that can provide information according to the road conditions of a road to be managed to vehicles traveling on the road. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] A road control device according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a collection unit that collects road information according to the driving conditions of vehicles traveling on managed roads, a determination unit that uses the collected road information to determine the road conditions of the managed roads, and an output unit that outputs the determination results regarding the road conditions of the managed roads to vehicles traveling on the managed roads.

[0010] In one aspect of the road control method of the present disclosure, road information corresponding to the driving conditions of vehicles traveling on a managed road is collected, the collected road information is used to determine the road conditions of the managed road, and the determination result regarding the road conditions of the managed road is output to vehicles traveling on the managed road.

[0011] A program of one embodiment of the present disclosure causes a computer to perform the following processes: collecting road information according to the driving conditions of vehicles traveling on managed roads; determining the road conditions of the managed roads using the collected road information; and outputting the determination results regarding the road conditions of the managed roads to vehicles traveling on the managed roads. [Effects of the Invention]

[0012] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to provide a road control device or the like that can provide information according to the road conditions of a road to be managed to vehicles traveling on the road to be managed. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0013] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram for explaining roads that are subject to management by a road control device according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a road control device according to a first embodiment. [Figure 3] 4 is a conceptual diagram for explaining an example of displaying information according to a determination result output from the road control device according to the first embodiment. FIG. [Figure 4] 4 is a conceptual diagram for explaining an example of displaying information according to a determination result output from the road control device according to the first embodiment. FIG. [Figure 5] 4 is a conceptual diagram for explaining an example of displaying information according to a determination result output from the road control device according to the first embodiment. FIG. [Figure 6] 4 is a display example of information according to a determination result output from the road control device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] 3 is a conceptual diagram for explaining an example of learning of an estimation model used to estimate a determination result (event prediction information) by the road control device according to the first embodiment. FIG. [Figure 8] 2 is a conceptual diagram for explaining an example in which the road control device according to the first embodiment estimates a determination result (event prediction information) using an estimation model. FIG. [Figure 9] 4 is a flowchart for explaining an example of the operation of the road control device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 10] 6 is a flowchart for explaining another example of the operation of the road control device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a road control device according to a second embodiment. [Figure 12]FIG. 10 is a conceptual diagram for explaining an example of generation of driving instructions by a road control device according to a second embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a conceptual diagram for explaining an example of generation of driving instructions by a road control device according to a second embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a conceptual diagram for explaining an example of generation of driving instructions by a road control device according to a second embodiment. [Figure 15] 10 is a flowchart for explaining an example of the operation of the road control device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a road control device according to a third embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 10 is a conceptual diagram for explaining an example of display of guidance information by a road control device according to a third embodiment. [Figure 18] FIG. 11 is a conceptual diagram for explaining an example of an incentive given to a user who follows guidance information from a road control device according to a third embodiment. [Figure 19] FIG. 11 is a conceptual diagram for explaining another example of an incentive given to a user who follows guidance information from a road control device according to the third embodiment. [Figure 20] FIG. 10 is a conceptual diagram for explaining an example of guidance information (travel plan) by a road control device according to a third embodiment. [Figure 21] FIG. 10 is a conceptual diagram for explaining an example of display of guidance information (travel plan) by a road control device according to a third embodiment. [Figure 22] 10 is a flowchart for explaining an example of the operation of the road control device according to the third embodiment. [Figure 23] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a road control device according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 24] FIG. 10 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of the configuration of a control target vehicle that can be run-controlled by a road traffic control device according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 25]FIG. 10 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of a situation in which driving control is not performed by a road control device according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 26] FIG. 10 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of a scene in which driving control is executed by a road control device according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 27] FIG. 10 is a conceptual diagram showing another example of a scene in which driving control is executed by the road control device according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 28] 10 is a flowchart for explaining an example of the operation of the road control device according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 29] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a road control device according to a fifth embodiment. [Figure 30] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration for executing control and processing according to each embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0014] Hereinafter, embodiments for carrying out the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. However, the embodiments described below are limited in a manner that is technically preferable for carrying out the present invention, but the scope of the invention is not limited to the following. In all drawings used to describe the following embodiments, the same reference numerals are used for similar parts unless otherwise specified. Furthermore, in the following embodiments, repeated explanations of similar configurations and operations may be omitted.

[0015] (First embodiment) First, the configuration of a road control device according to a first embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. The road control device of this embodiment collects road information according to the driving conditions of vehicles driving on the managed roads, using information collected by sensors installed on the managed roads and information transmitted from vehicles driving on the managed roads. The road control device of this embodiment uses the collected road information to determine the conditions (also called road conditions) of the managed roads. The road condition determination results obtained by the road control device of this embodiment are output to the occupants or owners of vehicles driving on the managed roads.

[0016] (composition) FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram for explaining a road control device 10 of this embodiment. A plurality of sensors are installed on a road R that is a management target of the road control device 10. The plurality of sensors are communicatively connected to the road control device 10 via a network 140. The plurality of sensors detect physical quantities corresponding to the respective sensors. The plurality of sensors transmit sensor data to the road control device 10 via the network 140. The plurality of sensors installed on the management target road R may transmit the sensor data via wireless communication or wired communication. For example, the plurality of sensors transmit the sensor data via a base station or wireless station installed near the management target road R.

[0017] For example, a surveillance camera 151 is installed on a managed road R. The surveillance camera 151 captures images of the road surface of the managed road R. The images (including videos) captured by the surveillance camera 151 include vehicles traveling on the managed road R. The surveillance camera 151 transmits image data relating to the captured images to the road control device 10. The image data transmitted from the surveillance camera 151 is one form of sensor data. The surveillance camera 151 may transmit the captured images as image data as they are, or may transmit data obtained by subjecting the captured images to image processing as image data. Reducing the volume of image data transmitted from the surveillance camera 151 reduces the communication volume and improves the communication speed.

[0018] For example, an optical fiber sensor 152 is installed on the managed road R. The optical fiber sensor 152 is buried in the managed road R. The optical fiber sensor 152 may be disposed on the road surface of the managed road R. In the example of FIG. 1 , the optical fiber sensor 152 is extended in a direction perpendicular to the traveling direction of the managed road R. The optical fiber sensor 152 may be extended in a direction along the traveling direction of the managed road R. The optical fiber sensor 152 measures continuous distribution information such as temperature, vibration, and strain along the optical fiber. For example, the optical fiber sensor 152 measures continuous distribution information such as temperature, vibration, and strain along the optical fiber. The optical fiber sensor 152 transmits sensor data corresponding to the measured distribution information to the road control device 10. The sensor data transmitted from the optical fiber sensor 152 is used to measure acceleration, speed, weight, and the like. The sensor data such as acceleration, speed, and weight measured by the optical fiber sensor 152 may be configured to be transmitted to the road control device 10.

[0019] For example, a vibration sensor 153 is installed on the management target road R. The vibration sensor 153 detects vibrations occurring on the management target road R. The vibration sensor 153 transmits sensor data corresponding to the detected vibrations to the road control device 10. For example, the vibration sensor 153 is installed on the road surface or bridge of the management target road R. The sensor data transmitted from the vibration sensor 153 can be used to measure speed and the like. The road control device 10 may be configured so that the sensor data such as speed measured by the vibration sensor 153 is transmitted to the road control device 10.

[0020] The images transmitted from the surveillance camera 151 and the sensor data transmitted from the optical fiber sensor 152 and the vibration sensor are road information related to the managed road R. The road information is used by the road control device 10 to determine the road conditions of the managed road R. The sensors installed on the managed road R are not limited to the surveillance camera 151, the optical fiber sensor 152, and the vibration sensor 153. For example, the managed road R may be installed with a sensor that detects sound, such as a microphone or an ultrasonic sensor. For example, the managed road R may be installed with a camera that is sensitive to light other than visible light, such as an infrared camera or an ultraviolet camera.

[0021] The road control device 10 receives road information transmitted from a plurality of sensors installed on the managed road R. The road control device 10 also receives road information transmitted from vehicles traveling on the managed road R. The road control device 10 also receives meteorological information and earthquake information for the area including the managed road R. The meteorological information and earthquake information are included in the environmental information. The road control device 10 may also acquire posted information posted via a social network.

[0022] The road control device 10 uses the collected road information to determine the road conditions of the managed road R. The road control device 10 may also determine the road conditions of the managed road R by adding environmental information. For example, the road control device 10 determines the occurrence and prediction of traffic congestion as the road conditions of the managed road R. Details of the road condition determination by the road control device 10 will be described later.

[0023] The road control device 10 outputs the determination result regarding the road conditions of the managed road R. For example, the road control device 10 displays the determination result on an electronic signboard 170 installed on the managed road R. The electronic signboard 170 (also called a road information board) is installed above or to the side of the managed road R, at interchanges, and in parking areas. The occupants (drivers and passengers) of a vehicle traveling on the managed road R can check the determination result displayed on the electronic signboard 170. For example, the road control device 10 transmits the determination result to a navigation system installed in a vehicle traveling on the managed road R. For example, the determination result may be displayed on the screen of the navigation system or output as audio from a speaker of the navigation system. For example, the road control device 10 transmits the determination result to a mobile device carried by a occupant of a vehicle traveling on the managed road R. For example, the determination result may be displayed on the screen of the mobile device or output as audio from a speaker of the mobile device. As described above, the destination of the determination result regarding the road conditions of the managed road R by the road control device 10 is a vehicle that uses the managed road R. In other words, the determination result regarding the road conditions of the managed road R is output to the vehicle that is the destination of the determination result, using the various notification means described above.

[0024] [Road control device] Next, a detailed configuration of the road control device 10 will be described with reference to the drawings. Fig. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the detailed configuration of the road control device 10. The road control device 10 has a collection unit 11, a determination unit 12, and an output unit 15.

[0025] The collection unit 11 collects road information according to the driving conditions of vehicles traveling on the managed road R. For example, the collection unit 11 receives road information transmitted from a plurality of sensors installed on the managed road R. For example, the collection unit 11 receives image data transmitted from a monitoring camera 151 as road information. For example, the collection unit 11 receives sensor data transmitted from an optical fiber sensor 152 as road information. For example, the collection unit 11 receives sensor data transmitted from a vibration sensor 153 as road information. If sensors other than the monitoring camera 151, the optical fiber sensor 152, and the vibration sensor 153 are installed on the managed road R, the collection unit 11 receives sensor data transmitted from the other sensors as road information.

[0026] The collection unit 11 also receives weather information and earthquake information for the area including the managed road R. The weather information and earthquake information are included in the environmental information. The collection unit 11 also receives information about events being held in the area including the managed road R. The weather information, earthquake information, and event information are included in the environmental information. The collection unit 11 may also acquire posted information and news information about the area including the managed road R that is posted via a social network. For example, the collection unit 11 acquires posted information and news information about disasters, fires, incidents, etc. that have occurred in the vicinity of the managed road R. There are no particular limitations on the method by which the collection unit 11 collects road information, environmental information, posted information, and news information.

[0027] The collection unit 11 may also receive road information transmitted from vehicles traveling on the managed road R. For example, the collection unit 11 collects information about vehicles using an ETC (Electronic Toll Collection system). For example, the collection unit 11 receives probe information transmitted from a vehicle equipped with an ETC2.0 onboard unit or an ETC2.0 compatible navigation system. The probe information includes information about the vehicle, a history of the vehicle's traveling position, and a history of sudden vehicle movements. The collection unit 11 receives probe information transmitted from multiple vehicles traveling on the managed road R as road information.

[0028] The determination unit 12 determines the road conditions of the managed road R using the collected road information. For example, the determination unit 12 determines the occurrence of traffic congestion in a section of the managed road R according to the vehicle density in that section. The higher the vehicle density, the smaller the inter-vehicle distance. For example, the determination unit 12 determines that traffic congestion has occurred in a section where the vehicle density exceeds a threshold. For example, the determination unit 12 determines that traffic congestion has occurred when the vehicle density per unit time exceeds a threshold. For example, when an abnormality is detected in the amplitude or period of vibration at a specific point on the managed road R, the determination unit 12 determines that some kind of sudden event has occurred at that specific point. By combining sensor data detected at that specific point, it may be possible to identify what kind of event has occurred.

[0029] The determination unit 12 may determine the road conditions of the managed road R using environmental information. For example, if there is localized heavy rainfall in an area including the managed road R, the determination unit 12 lowers the threshold value that is the determination criterion for vehicle density. If the vehicle density threshold value is lowered, it is determined that a traffic jam has occurred even if the vehicle density is lower than normal. For example, if the road surface condition of the managed road R can be determined by combining road information and environmental information, the determination unit 12 generates a determination result that includes the determined road surface condition. For example, the determination unit 12 generates a determination result such as there are puddles on the road surface, the road surface is frozen, or the road is subsided.

[0030] The determination unit 12 may determine the road conditions of the managed road R using road information transmitted from vehicles traveling on the managed road R. For example, the determination unit 12 determines the road conditions of the managed road R using probe information transmitted from multiple vehicles traveling on the managed road R. For example, the determination unit 12 determines whether or not congestion is occurring at a specific point on the managed road R, depending on the number of vehicles within an area including the specific point. For example, the determination unit 12 determines that some kind of unexpected event is occurring at a point where sudden vehicle movements are occurring frequently. By combining sensor data detected at such points, it may be possible to identify what kind of event has occurred.

[0031] The determination unit 12 may use posted information posted via a social network to determine the road conditions of the managed road R. For example, when posted information about an area in which a vehicle is traveling is posted, the determination unit 12 uses the road information included in the posted information to determine the road conditions of the managed road R. For example, the determination unit 12 uses an image included in the posted information to determine the road conditions of the managed road R. When a traffic congestion location is shown in the image included in the posted information, the determination unit 12 identifies the traffic congestion location and outputs a determination result that traffic congestion is occurring at the identified location.

[0032] The determination unit 12 may determine the road conditions of the managed road R according to keywords included in the posted information or news report information. For example, when posted information is posted indicating that there is a fallen object at a certain point on the managed road R, the determination unit 12 extracts the keyword "falling object." In response to the extracted keyword "falling object," the determination unit 12 identifies the point where the fallen object is located, and outputs a determination result that there is a fallen object at the identified point.

[0033] The output unit 15 outputs the determination result regarding the road conditions of the managed road R. For example, the output unit 15 outputs the determination result to an electronic bulletin board 170 installed on the managed road R. The determination result output to the electronic bulletin board 170 is displayed on the display unit of the electronic bulletin board 170. The determination result displayed on the electronic bulletin board 170 can be confirmed by an occupant of a vehicle approaching the electronic bulletin board 170. The occupant of the vehicle can confirm the determination result displayed on the electronic bulletin board 170. The driver who has confirmed the determination result can drive appropriately by referring to the determination result.

[0034] For example, the output unit 15 transmits the determination result to a navigation system installed in a vehicle traveling on the managed road R. For example, the determination result is displayed on the screen of the navigation system or output as audio from a speaker of the navigation system. The vehicle occupants can check the determination result via the navigation system. The driver who has checked the determination result can refer to the determination result and drive appropriately. The determination result notified via the navigation system can be checked by the occupants of any vehicle as long as the vehicle is equipped with a navigation system.

[0035] For example, the output unit 15 transmits the determination result to a mobile device carried by an occupant of a vehicle traveling on the managed road R. For example, the determination result is displayed on the screen of the mobile device or output as audio from the speaker of the mobile device. The occupant of the vehicle can check the determination result via the mobile device. The driver who has checked the determination result can refer to the determination result and drive appropriately. The determination result notified via the mobile device can be checked by any occupant of the vehicle as long as they are carrying the mobile device.

[0036] 3 to 6 are conceptual diagrams showing an example in which information according to the determination result output from the road control device 10 is displayed on a screen 100 of a navigation system mounted on a vehicle. In the examples of FIGS. 3 to 6, a map including the road on which the vehicle is traveling is displayed on the screen 100. The position of the vehicle is displayed by a triangular icon. FIGS. 3 to 6 show an example in which information according to the determination result is displayed on the screen 100. The information according to the determination result may be output as voice from the navigation system.

[0037] In the example of FIG. 3, three pieces of information corresponding to the determination results output from the road control device 10 are displayed on the screen 100. The first piece of information is information that "traffic jam occurring at the sag section, be careful to reduce your speed." This information includes the determination result that "traffic jam occurring at the sag section" and information corresponding to the determination result that "be careful to reduce your speed." The second piece of information is information that "gentle downhill slope, be careful not to exceed the speed limit." This information includes the determination result that "traffic jam occurring at the sag section" and information corresponding to the determination result that "be careful not to exceed the speed limit." The third piece of information is information that "falling object present, drive with caution." This information includes the determination result that "falling object present" and information corresponding to the determination result that "drive with caution." A driver who checks the screen 100 can recognize the road conditions of the road they are traveling on according to the displayed information. Furthermore, a driver who recognizes the road conditions of the road they are traveling on can drive according to the recognized road conditions.

[0038] In the example of FIG. 4, one piece of information according to the determination result, which is determined including environmental information (weather information), is displayed on the screen 100. The information displayed on the screen 100 is, "A sudden downpour is occurring near a gentle uphill slope; be careful not to exceed the speed limit / slip." This information includes the determination result, "A sudden downpour is occurring near a gentle uphill slope," which is determined including environmental information (weather information), and the information, "Be careful not to exceed the speed limit / slip," which is corresponding to the determination result. A driver who checks the screen 100 can recognize the road conditions of the road they are traveling on, including the environmental information (weather information), according to the displayed information. Furthermore, a driver who recognizes the road conditions of the road they are traveling on can drive according to the recognized road conditions.

[0039] In the example of FIG. 5, one piece of information according to the determination result, which is determined including environmental information (event information), is displayed on the screen 100. On the screen 100, information is displayed regarding "Interchange I" that "an event is being held nearby, and traffic congestion is occurring starting from the IC (Interchange) exit." This information includes the determination result that "traffic congestion is occurring starting from the IC exit," which is determined including environmental information (event information). A driver who checks the screen 100 can recognize the road conditions of the road on which they are traveling, including the environmental information (event information), according to the displayed information. Furthermore, a driver who recognizes the road conditions of the road on which they are traveling can drive according to the recognized road conditions.

[0040] In the example of FIG. 6, video of a past accident is displayed on the screen 100. In the example of FIG. 6, video of a past accident under similar environmental conditions is displayed on the screen 100 according to environmental information (weather information). For example, the video of the past accident is transmitted to a navigation system installed in a vehicle passing the location where the accident occurred, during the same time period as the accident, according to the same environmental conditions (e.g., heavy rain) as when the accident occurred. In addition, information saying "Watch out for rear-end collisions" is displayed on the screen 100. This information is preferably information that helps to avoid accidents that have occurred in the past (e.g., multiple rear-end collisions). A driver who checks the video on the screen 100 can recognize the road conditions of the road they are traveling on, including the environmental conditions, according to the displayed video. Furthermore, a driver who recognizes the road conditions of the road they are traveling on can drive according to the recognized road conditions.

[0041] The road control device 10 may determine road conditions using a prediction model trained using a machine learning technique. FIG. 7 is a conceptual diagram for explaining an example of learning using a dataset in which environmental information, road information, and an event occurrence point (location information) are used as explanatory variables and an occurring event is used as a target variable, as training data. The learning device 18 learns, with respect to past occurring events, a dataset in which environmental information, road information, and an event occurrence point (location information) are used as explanatory variables and the occurring event is used as a target variable, as training data. For example, the learning device 18 learns, with respect to past occurring events, a dataset in which feature quantities extracted from the environmental information, road information, and the event occurrence point (location information) are used as explanatory variables and the occurring event is used as a target variable, as training data. The learning device 18 generates an estimation model 180 that estimates an occurring event in response to input of environmental information, road information, and the event occurrence point.

[0042] For example, an occurring event is the occurrence of congestion at a sag section. For example, an occurring event is the occurrence of speeding on a gentle downhill slope. For example, an occurring event is the occurrence of a fallen object. For example, an occurring event is a sudden change in the environmental conditions (weather) on the managed road R in response to environmental information (weather information). For example, an occurring event is a sudden change in congestion on the managed road R in response to environmental information (event information). For example, an occurring event is the occurrence of an accident at a specific location.

[0043] The explanatory variables used to estimate an occurrence of an event may include information other than environmental information, road information, and the location of the event occurrence (location information). For example, the explanatory variables may include time information. For example, the explanatory variables may include information about the vehicle (also referred to as vehicle information), such as the vehicle model, manufacturer, engine displacement, weight, mileage, and manufacturing date. Furthermore, the explanatory variables used to estimate an occurrence of an event may include only road information and the location of the event occurrence (location information), without including environmental information.

[0044] For example, the learning device 18 performs learning using a linear regression algorithm. For example, the learning device 18 performs learning using a support vector machine (SVM) algorithm. For example, the learning device 18 performs learning using a Gaussian process regression (GPR) algorithm. For example, the learning device 18 performs learning using a random forest (RF) algorithm. For example, the learning device 18 may perform unsupervised learning that performs classification according to feature data. There are no particular limitations on the learning algorithm performed by the learning device 18.

[0045] FIG. 8 is a conceptual diagram illustrating an example in which environmental information, road information, and a target point (location information) are input to an estimation model 180 constructed in advance to estimate the occurrence of an event, and information about a possible event (event prediction information) is output. For example, the estimation model 180 outputs the event prediction information in response to input of feature quantities related to the environmental information, road information, and target point (location information). There are no particular limitations on the event prediction information output from the estimation model 180, as long as the event is a possible event at a specific point on the managed road R. The road control device 10 outputs a determination result in response to the estimation result of the estimation model 180. For example, the road control device 10 determines whether a traffic jam will occur at the sag section using the event prediction information (whether a traffic jam will occur) output from the estimation model 180 in response to input of road information at the current sag section (specific point). The road control device 10 outputs a determination result in response to the estimated event prediction information (whether a traffic jam will occur).

[0046] The determination result by the road control device 10 may be transmitted to a traffic information center that provides traffic information regarding the managed road R. For example, the traffic information center transmits traffic information regarding the managed road R in accordance with the received determination result. The determination result by the road control device 10 may be transmitted to a road operator that manages the managed road R. For example, the road operator can use the received determination result in managing the managed road R, planning the construction of new facilities, designing new roads, and the like.

[0047] (operation) Next, an example of the operation of the road control device 10 will be described with reference to the drawings. Figures 9 and 10 are flowcharts for explaining an example of the operation of the road control device 10. In the explanation following the flowcharts of Figures 9 and 10, the road control device 10 will be described as the subject of the operation.

[0048] 9, first, the road control device 10 collects road information (step S111). For example, the road control device 10 collects road information about the managed road R from a plurality of sensors installed on the managed road R. For example, the road control device 10 collects road information about the managed road R from sensors mounted on vehicles traveling on the managed road R or from mobile terminals carried by vehicle occupants. For example, the road control device 10 may collect environmental information such as weather forecasts and event information for the area where the managed road R is located. For example, the road control device 10 may collect posted information and news report information on social networks about the area where the managed road R is located.

[0049] Next, the road control device 10 judges the road conditions using the collected road information (step S112). For example, the road control device 10 judges the road conditions such as the occurrence of congestion on the road R to be managed.

[0050] Next, the road control device 10 outputs the determination result regarding the road conditions (step S113). For example, the determination result output from the road control device 10 is displayed on an electronic bulletin board that can be seen from the vehicle to which the determination result is output. For example, the determination result output from the road control device 10 is notified to the navigation system of the vehicle traveling on the managed road R, a mobile terminal carried by the vehicle occupant, or the like.

[0051] FIG. 10 relates to an example of the operation of the road control device 10 when the estimation model 180 is used. In FIG. 10, first, the road control device 10 collects road information / environmental information (step S121). For example, the road control device 10 collects road information about the managed road R from a plurality of sensors installed on the managed road R. For example, the road control device 10 collects road information about the managed road R from sensors mounted on vehicles traveling on the managed road R or from mobile terminals carried by vehicle occupants. For example, the road control device 10 collects environmental information such as weather forecasts and event information for the area where the managed road R is located. For example, the road control device 10 may collect posted information and news reports on social networks about the area where the managed road R is located.

[0052] Next, the road control device 10 inputs the collected road information / environment information into the estimation model 180 (step S122).

[0053] Next, the road control device 10 generates event prediction information in accordance with the output from the estimation model 180 (step S123). For example, the road control device 10 generates road conditions such as the occurrence of congestion at a specific point (such as a sag section) of the managed road R as the event prediction information.

[0054] Next, the road control device 10 outputs the generated event prediction information (step S124). For example, the event prediction information output from the road control device 10 is displayed on an electronic bulletin board that is the output destination of the determination result and can be seen from the vehicle. For example, the event prediction information output from the road control device 10 is notified to the navigation system of the vehicle traveling on the managed road R, a mobile terminal carried by the vehicle occupant, etc.

[0055] As described above, the road control device of this embodiment includes a collection unit, a determination unit, and an output unit. The collection unit collects road information according to the driving conditions of vehicles traveling on roads to be managed. The determination unit uses the collected road information to determine the road conditions of the roads to be managed. The output unit outputs the determination result regarding the road conditions of the roads to vehicles traveling on the roads to be managed.

[0056] The road control device of this embodiment outputs the determination result regarding the road conditions of the managed road to vehicles traveling on the managed road. That is, the road control device of this embodiment can provide information corresponding to the road conditions of the managed road to vehicles traveling on the managed road. By checking the determination result regarding the road conditions of the managed road on which the vehicle is traveling, the driver of the vehicle can respond to the driving according to the determination result.

[0057] In one aspect of this embodiment, the collection unit collects sensor data measured by multiple sensors installed at specific points on the road to be managed as road information. The determination unit combines the sensor data collected at the specific points to determine the road conditions at the specific points. The output unit outputs the determination result by the determination unit to a vehicle traveling through the specific points. In this aspect, the road conditions at the specific points are notified to the vehicle traveling through the specific points. A driver of a vehicle traveling through the specific points can check information regarding the road conditions at the specific points and respond to the driving accordingly.

[0058] In one aspect of this embodiment, the collection unit collects sensor data measured by sensors installed around the sag section as road information. The determination unit uses the sensor data collected around the sag section to determine road conditions related to traffic congestion in the sag section. The output unit outputs the determination result by the determination unit to a vehicle that is causing the traffic congestion among the vehicles traveling through the sag section. According to this aspect, the determination result can be notified to the vehicle that is causing the traffic congestion among the vehicles traveling through the sag section. If the driver of the vehicle causing the traffic congestion increases the vehicle's speed, the traffic congestion in the sag section will be alleviated.

[0059] In one aspect of this embodiment, the collection unit collects sensor data measured by sensors installed around a gentle downhill slope as road information. The determination unit uses the sensor data collected around the gentle downhill slope to determine road conditions related to an increasing trend in the traveling speed of vehicles traveling on the gentle downhill slope. The output unit outputs the determination result by the determination unit to vehicles traveling on the gentle downhill slope whose traveling speed is increasing. According to this aspect, the determination result can be notified to vehicles traveling on the gentle downhill slope whose traveling speed is increasing. If drivers of vehicles whose traveling speed is increasing reduce their vehicle speed, traffic accidents on gentle downhill slopes may be reduced.

[0060] The road control device may use sensor data measured by sensors installed around the gentle uphill slope to determine road conditions related to a decreasing trend in the traveling speed of vehicles traveling on the gentle uphill slope. In this case, the road control device outputs the determination result by the determination unit to vehicles traveling on the gentle uphill slope whose traveling speed is decreasing. According to this aspect, the determination result can be notified to vehicles traveling on the gentle uphill slope whose traveling speed is decreasing. If the driver of a vehicle whose traveling speed is decreasing increases the vehicle's speed, traffic congestion on the gentle uphill slope may be alleviated.

[0061] In one aspect of this embodiment, the collection unit collects environmental information of an area including a managed road. The determination unit determines the road conditions of the managed road using the road information and environmental information. According to this aspect, information corresponding to the determination result of the road conditions, including the environmental information of the area including the managed road, can be provided to vehicles traveling on the managed road.

[0062] In one aspect of this embodiment, the collection unit collects weather information for an area including a managed road as environmental information. The determination unit determines the road conditions of the managed road using the weather information included in the environmental information. According to this aspect, information corresponding to the determination result of the road conditions, including the weather information for the area including the managed road, can be provided to vehicles traveling on the managed road.

[0063] In one aspect of this embodiment, the collection unit collects, as environmental information, event information related to events held in an area including the managed road. The determination unit determines the road conditions of the managed road using the event information included in the environmental information. According to this aspect, information corresponding to the determination result of the road conditions, including the event information of the area including the managed road, can be provided to vehicles traveling on the managed road.

[0064] In one aspect of this embodiment, the determination unit determines the road conditions of the managed road using an estimation model generated by learning using a dataset related to past events that have occurred on the managed road as training data. The dataset uses environmental information, road information, and event occurrence locations as explanatory variables, and the occurring event as a target variable. According to this aspect, the estimation model generated based on past events that have occurred on the managed road can be used to estimate the occurring event on the managed road according to the environmental information, road information, and event occurrence locations.

[0065] In one aspect of the present embodiment, the output unit outputs information according to the determination result by the determination unit to an electronic bulletin board installed on the managed road. According to this aspect, the electronic bulletin board can be used to present the determination result regarding the road conditions of the managed road to vehicles traveling on the managed road.

[0066] In one aspect of the present embodiment, the output unit outputs information according to the determination result by the determination unit to a navigation system mounted on a vehicle traveling on the managed road. According to this aspect, the navigation system can be used to present the determination result regarding the road conditions of the managed road to the vehicle traveling on the managed road.

[0067] In one aspect of the present embodiment, the output unit outputs information according to the determination result by the determination unit to a mobile terminal carried by an occupant of a vehicle traveling on the managed road. According to this aspect, the mobile terminal can be used to present the determination result regarding the road conditions of the managed road to the vehicle traveling on the managed road.

[0068] (Second embodiment) Next, a road control device according to a second embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. The road control device of this embodiment outputs driving instructions according to the road conditions of the roads that are managed by the road control device. In the following, descriptions of the roads that are managed by the road control device and the sensors installed on the managed roads will be omitted.

[0069] (composition) 11 is a block diagram showing an example of a detailed configuration of the road control device 20. The road control device 20 has a collection unit 21, a determination unit 22, a driving instruction generation unit 23, and an output unit 25.

[0070] The collection unit 21 has the same configuration as the collection unit 11 of the first embodiment. The collection unit 21 receives road information transmitted from a plurality of sensors installed on roads to be managed. The collection unit 21 also receives road information transmitted from vehicles traveling on roads to be managed. The collection unit 21 also receives weather information and earthquake information for an area including roads to be managed. Weather information and earthquake information are included in environmental information. The collection unit 21 may also acquire posted information and news information about an area including roads to be managed that are posted via social networks. There are no particular limitations on the method by which the collection unit 21 collects road information, environmental information, posted information, and news information.

[0071] The determination unit 22 has the same configuration as the determination unit 12 of the first embodiment. The determination unit 22 determines the road conditions of the managed roads using collected road information. The determination unit 22 may determine the road conditions of the managed roads using environmental information. The determination unit 22 may determine the road conditions of the managed roads using posted information posted via a social network. The determination unit 22 may determine the road conditions of the managed roads according to keywords included in the posted information and news reports.

[0072] The determination unit 22 may determine the road conditions by comparing an image taken in the past (also referred to as a past image) with a subsequent image (also referred to as a current image) for a specific point included in a road to be managed. For example, when an object not included in the past image is detected in the subsequent current image, the determination unit 22 determines that an object has fallen on the road.

[0073] The driving instruction generation unit 23 generates driving instructions according to the determination result of the road conditions by the determination unit 22. For example, in accordance with the determination result that congestion will occur at a sag section, the driving instruction generation unit 23 generates driving instructions to instruct a vehicle approaching an uphill road from a sag section to increase its speed. For example, in accordance with the determination result that speeding will occur on a gentle downhill slope, the driving instruction generation unit 23 generates driving instructions to instruct a vehicle approaching a gentle downhill slope to decrease its speed. For example, in accordance with the determination result that congestion will occur due to an obstacle on the road ahead, the driving instruction generation unit 23 generates driving instructions to instruct a vehicle approaching a point where the obstacle is located to decrease its speed.

[0074] The output unit 25 outputs driving instructions according to the determination result regarding the road conditions of the road to be managed. For example, the output unit 25 outputs driving instructions according to the determination result to an electronic bulletin board installed on the road to be managed. For example, the output unit 25 transmits driving instructions to a navigation system installed in a vehicle traveling on the road to be managed. For example, the output unit 25 transmits the determination result to a mobile terminal carried by an occupant of a vehicle traveling on the road to be managed. The occupant of the vehicle can check the driving instructions via the electronic bulletin board, the navigation system, or the mobile terminal. After checking the driving instructions, the driver can drive appropriately according to the road conditions in accordance with the driving instructions.

[0075] [Driving instructions] 12 to 14 are conceptual diagrams for explaining driving instructions according to the determination result of road conditions, which are generated based on the comparison result between a past image (also referred to as a first image) and a current image (also referred to as a second image). The determination of road conditions based on the comparison result between a past image (also referred to as a first image) and a current image (also referred to as a second image) may be performed in the first embodiment. The first image and the second image may be taken at different times, and there is no limitation on the order in which they are taken.

[0076] The upper left side of Figures 12 to 14 shows a past image taken five minutes before the present time. The upper right side of Figures 12 to 14 shows a current image taken at the present time. Note that the present time refers to the time when the current image was taken, and is not necessarily the most recent image. There are no particular restrictions on the timing at which the past and current images were taken, as long as the current image was taken after the past image was taken. The lower parts of Figures 12 to 14 show an example in which the determination result and driving instructions are displayed on a screen 200 of a navigation system installed in a vehicle. Information related to the determination result and driving instructions may be displayed on the screen of a mobile terminal carried by a vehicle occupant. Information related to the determination result and driving instructions may also be output as audio.

[0077] In FIG. 12, there are more vehicles in the current image (upper right) than in the past image (upper left). In such a case, the road control device 20 determines that there is a traffic congestion tendency in accordance with the increasing trend in the number of vehicles. For example, the road control device 20 determines that there is a traffic congestion tendency when the increase in the number of vehicles detected from the image exceeds a predetermined amount of change. For example, the road control device 20 determines that there is a traffic congestion tendency in accordance with the increase in the number of vehicles detected from the image. In accordance with the determination result that there is a traffic congestion tendency, the road control device 20 generates driving instructions for vehicles traveling at points included in the image. In the example of FIG. 12, information related to the determination result, such as "This is a gentle uphill slope. Your vehicle is slowing down, causing traffic congestion behind you," is displayed on the screen 200. In addition, in the example of FIG. 12, a driving instruction related to the determination result, such as "Please speed up," is displayed on the screen 200.

[0078] In FIG. 13 , the past image (top left) shows multiple vehicles traveling with a gap between them. In contrast, the current image (top right) shows one vehicle traveling while leaving multiple vehicles behind. In such a case, the road control device 20 determines that the vehicle traveling while leaving multiple vehicles behind has a tendency to increase in speed. For example, the road control device 20 may detect a vehicle that has a tendency to increase in speed based on images of the same group of vehicles captured at different locations. In response to the determination result that there is a tendency for the speed to increase, the road control device 20 generates driving instructions for the vehicle that is included in the image and has a tendency to increase in speed. In the example of FIG. 13 , information related to the determination result, such as "Gentle downhill slope. Speed ​​is increasing," is displayed on the screen 200. In addition, in the example of FIG. 13 , a driving instruction according to the determination result, such as "Please reduce your speed," is displayed on the screen 200.

[0079] In FIG. 14 , the past image (upper left) shows multiple vehicles traveling with a gap between them. In contrast, the current image (upper right) shows an obstacle on the road subject to management, causing a traffic jam as vehicles try to avoid the obstacle. In such a case, the road control device 20 determines that an obstacle exists on the road subject to management. The road control device 20 also determines that a traffic jam has occurred. When detecting an obstacle, it is preferable for the road control device 20 to detect the presence or absence of an obstacle based on images taken at different times at the same location. In response to the determination result that an obstacle exists on the road and a traffic jam has occurred, the road control device 20 generates driving instructions for vehicles heading toward the location included in the image. In the example of FIG. 14 , information about the determination result, such as "There is a traffic jam due to an obstacle ahead," is displayed on the screen 200. In addition, in the example of FIG. 14 , a driving instruction according to the determination result, such as "Please reduce your speed," is displayed on the screen 200.

[0080] A driver who checks the screen 200 can recognize the road conditions and driving instructions of the road they are traveling on according to the displayed information. Also, a driver who recognizes the driving instructions of the road they are traveling on from the screen 200 can drive according to the recognized driving instructions.

[0081] (operation) Next, an example of the operation of the road control device 20 will be described with reference to the drawings. Fig. 15 is a flowchart for explaining an example of the operation of the road control device 20. In the explanation following the flowchart of Fig. 15, the road control device 20 will be described as the subject of the operation.

[0082] In FIG. 15, first, the road control device 20 collects road information (step S211). For example, the road control device 20 collects road information about the roads to be managed from a plurality of sensors installed on the roads to be managed. For example, the road control device 20 collects road information about the roads to be managed from sensors mounted on vehicles traveling on the roads to be managed or from mobile terminals carried by vehicle occupants. For example, the road control device 20 may collect environmental information such as weather forecasts and event information for the area where the roads to be managed are located. For example, the road control device 20 may collect information posted on social networks and news reports about the area where the roads to be managed are located.

[0083] Next, the road control device 20 determines road conditions using the collected road information (step S212). For example, the road control device 20 determines road conditions such as the occurrence of congestion on roads that are subject to management.

[0084] Next, the road control device 20 generates driving instructions according to the determination result of the road conditions (step S213). For example, when a traffic jam occurs due to a speed decrease in a sag section, the road control device 20 generates a driving instruction to instruct the vehicle causing the traffic jam to increase its speed.

[0085] Next, the road control device 20 outputs driving instructions according to the determination result regarding the road conditions (step S214). For example, the driving instructions output from the road control device 20 are displayed on an electronic bulletin board that can be seen from the vehicle to which the driving instructions are output. For example, the driving instructions output from the road control device 20 are notified to the navigation system of the vehicle traveling on the road subject to management, a mobile terminal carried by the vehicle occupant, etc.

[0086] As described above, the road control device of this embodiment includes a collection unit, a determination unit, a driving instruction generation unit, and an output unit. The collection unit collects road information according to the driving conditions of vehicles traveling on roads to be managed. The determination unit determines the road conditions of the roads to be managed using the collected road information. The driving instruction generation unit generates driving instructions for vehicles traveling on the roads to be managed according to the determination result by the determination unit. The output unit outputs the driving instructions generated by the driving instruction generation unit to the vehicle to which the driving instructions are to be output.

[0087] The road control device of this embodiment outputs driving instructions according to the determination result regarding the road conditions of the managed road to vehicles traveling on the managed road. That is, the road control device of this embodiment can provide driving instructions according to the road conditions of the managed road to vehicles traveling on the managed road. The driver of the vehicle can confirm the driving instructions and drive in accordance with the driving instructions.

[0088] In one aspect of this embodiment, the collection unit collects road information including a first image of a managed road taken at a past time and a second image of the managed road taken at a time different from that of the first image. The determination unit determines the road conditions of the managed road based on the difference between the first image and the second image. According to this aspect, the road conditions of the managed road can be determined based on changes in the vehicle driving conditions at different points and changes in the vehicle driving conditions at different points.

[0089] (Third embodiment) Next, a road control device according to a third embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. The road control device of this embodiment outputs guidance information according to the road conditions of the roads that are subject to management. In the following, descriptions of the roads that are subject to management by the road control device and the sensors installed on the roads that are subject to management will be omitted.

[0090] (composition) 16 is a block diagram showing an example of a detailed configuration of the road control device 30. The road control device 30 has a collection unit 31, a determination unit 32, a guidance information generation unit 33, and an output unit 35. The driving instruction generation unit 23 of the second embodiment may be added to the road control device 30.

[0091] The collection unit 31 has the same configuration as the collection unit 11 of the first embodiment. The collection unit 31 receives road information transmitted from a plurality of sensors installed on roads to be managed. The collection unit 31 also receives road information transmitted from vehicles traveling on roads to be managed. The collection unit 31 also receives weather information and earthquake information for an area including roads to be managed. Weather information and earthquake information are included in environmental information. The collection unit 31 may also acquire posted information and news information about an area including roads to be managed that is posted via a social network. There are no particular limitations on the method by which the collection unit 31 collects road information, environmental information, posted information, and news information.

[0092] The determination unit 32 has the same configuration as the determination unit 12 of the first embodiment. The determination unit 32 determines the road conditions of the managed roads using collected road information. The determination unit 32 may determine the road conditions of the managed roads using environmental information. The determination unit 32 may determine the road conditions of the managed roads using posted information posted via a social network. The determination unit 32 may determine the road conditions of the managed roads according to keywords included in the posted information and news reports.

[0093] The guidance information generation unit 33 generates guidance information according to the road condition determination result by the determination unit 32. For example, the guidance information generation unit 33 generates guidance information to guide the vehicle to an empty parking area according to the congestion level of parking areas available to the vehicle. For example, the guidance information generation unit 33 may generate a travel plan using roads managed by the road control device 30. For example, the guidance information generation unit 33 generates the travel plan according to the predicted road conditions of the roads managed by the road control device 30. The travel plan is a type of guidance information that includes recommendations regarding the use of roads managed by the road control device 30. For example, the guidance information generation unit 33 updates the travel plan according to the current road conditions of the roads managed by the road control device 30.

[0094] For example, the guidance information generation unit 33 may generate incentive information regarding incentives to be given to occupants such as drivers and passengers of a vehicle that travels according to the guidance information, or to the owner of the vehicle. For example, the incentive is a right to preferentially use facilities related to roads managed by the road control device 30. For example, the incentive is a right to use roads managed by the road control device 30 at a discounted rate. The incentive according to the guidance information may be given after the fact to the occupants or owner of the vehicle that follows the guidance information.

[0095] For example, the guidance information generation unit 33 may generate guidance information for businesses that set up food trucks or stalls in parking areas on roads subject to management. If popular businesses can be guided to parking areas that are usually empty, it may be possible to disperse vehicles using the parking areas and prevent vehicles from concentrating in popular parking areas. For example, businesses that respond to the guidance information may be given incentives such as discounts on the stall fee for the parking area or preferential rights to set up stalls in popular parking areas.

[0096] The output unit 35 outputs guidance information according to the determination result regarding the road conditions of the managed road. For example, the output unit 35 outputs the guidance information according to the determination result to an electronic bulletin board installed on the managed road. For example, the output unit 35 transmits the guidance information to a navigation system installed in a vehicle traveling on the managed road. For example, the output unit 35 transmits the guidance information to a mobile terminal carried by an occupant of a vehicle traveling on the managed road. The occupant of the vehicle can check the guidance information via the electronic bulletin board, the navigation system, or the mobile terminal. The driver who has checked the driving instructions can drive appropriately according to the road conditions in accordance with the guidance information.

[0097] [Guidance information] 17 to 21 are conceptual diagrams for explaining guidance information according to the determination result of road conditions. FIGS. 17 to 21 show an example in which information relating to the determination result and guidance instructions is displayed on a screen 300 of a navigation system mounted on a vehicle. The information relating to the determination result and guidance instructions may be displayed on a screen of a mobile terminal carried by a vehicle occupant. The information relating to the determination result and guidance instructions may be output as audio.

[0098] In the example of Fig. 17, guidance information according to the determination result output from road control device 30 is displayed on screen 300. Screen 300 displays a map of the area including roads managed by road control device 30, and information about parking areas adjacent to those managed roads. Screen 300 also displays guidance information that guides the user to parking B, which is less crowded than parking A. Screen 300 also displays icons that indicate the degree of congestion of parking A and parking B.

[0099] In the example of FIG. 17, for parking lot A, information about the determination result that "congested, traffic jam occurring" and guidance information that "we do not recommend using this lot" according to the determination result are displayed. For parking lot B, information about the determination result that "is available" and guidance information that "we recommend using this lot" according to the determination result are displayed. A driver who checks screen 300 can recognize the congestion status of the parking area according to the displayed information. Furthermore, a driver who recognizes the congestion status of the parking area can use parking lot B, which is available, according to the guidance information.

[0100] FIG. 18 illustrates an example of incentive information including an incentive given to a vehicle occupant or owner in response to guidance information. Screen 300 displays guidance information such as "Do not use parking lot A, use parking lot B" and a behavioral record such as "Do not use parking lot A, use parking lot B." The behavioral record can be determined based on sensor data detected by sensors installed on roads managed by road control device 30, product purchase history at parking areas, and the like. Screen 300 also displays incentive information including an incentive such as "Thank you for adopting the guidance information. You will be granted the right to use facility S at event venue E with priority." For example, facility S at event venue E is managed by the administrator of road control device 30. If incentives are given as shown in FIG. 18, the attractiveness of the incentive motivates vehicle occupants to follow the guidance information.

[0101] FIG. 19 illustrates an example of incentive information including an incentive given to a vendor who sets up a store in accordance with the guidance information. Screen 300 displays guidance information such as, "Parking A is expected to be congested, so please set up a store in Parking B." It also displays a behavioral record indicating, "Set up a store in Parking B." The behavioral record can be determined based on sensor data detected by sensors installed on roads managed by road control device 30, product sales history in the parking area, and the like. Screen 300 also displays incentive information including an incentive such as, "We will offer a discount on the next store opening fee in Parking B. We will also grant you the right to set up a store in Parking A first next month." For example, Parking A is a parking area that is expected to attract many customers because it is equipped with popular stores and facilities. In contrast, Parking B is a parking area that is expected to attract fewer customers than Parking A. Providing incentives as shown in FIG. 19 motivates vendors to follow the guidance information in accordance with their store opening plans.

[0102] Fig. 20 shows an example of a travel plan that uses roads managed by the road control device 30. The upper part of the screen 300 is a user interface that allows the user to input information to create a travel plan. In the example of Fig. 20, a travel plan that uses roads managed by the road control device 30 is created based on the selection of the departure point, destination, desired departure time, desired arrival time, desired activities, desired food, and type of vehicle.

[0103] In FIG. 20, the bottom part of the screen 300 shows an example of a travel plan based on user input. The travel plan includes guidance information based on scheduled times. 8:00 is associated with the guidance information "Leave the departure point (home)" and environmental information about the departure point, "Weather: sunny, temperature: 15 degrees Celsius." 9:00 is associated with the guidance information "Take highway P from interchange K." 9:30 is associated with the guidance information "Take a break at parking lot A, a taco food truck will be coming." This guidance information is based on the user's input of what they want to eat (tacos). 10:30 is associated with the guidance information "Charge at parking lot B." This guidance information is based on the user's input of the type of car (electric car). 11:30 is associated with the guidance information "Get off at interchange M and take route X. Please prepare chains." At 12:30, the information "Arrived at destination (event venue E)" is associated with the environmental information of destination Z, "Weather: Snow, temperature 2 degrees." Also, at 12:30, the guidance information "It's cold at the event venue, so please bring a thick coat." is associated.

[0104] Fig. 21 is an example of information about the travel plan of Fig. 20 being displayed on a screen 300. Screen 300 displays a map of the area including roads managed by road control device 30, and information about parking areas and interchanges located adjacent to those managed roads. Screen 300 also displays road information about the roads to the destination and environmental information (weather information) about the destination. Screen 300 also displays icons to clearly indicate facilities located adjacent to the managed roads, the route to the destination, and information about the destination.

[0105] In FIG. 21 , for parking lot A, guidance information is displayed saying, "A taco food truck is coming. We recommend taking a break." In response to the registration of the vehicle occupant's desired food, the road control device 30 generates a travel plan including guidance information guiding the occupant to a parking area selling that food. For parking lot B, guidance information is displayed saying, "We recommend charging at a charging station." If the vehicle is registered as an electric vehicle, the road control device 30 generates guidance information guiding the occupant to a location with a charging station where the electric vehicle can be charged. For interchange M, guidance information is displayed saying, "We recommend exiting the expressway onto an ordinary road." For route X from interchange M to destination Z, the road condition assessment result saying, "There is a section where it is snowing," and guidance information (recommended information) according to the assessment result saying, "Please prepare chains." Furthermore, for destination Z, environmental information (weather information) indicating that the weather is snowy is displayed. The driver of the vehicle can drive safely by attaching chains to the vehicle on route X. Furthermore, for interchange N, information including the road condition judgment result of "traffic jam at the exit" is displayed. Without guidance information, interchange N closer to destination Z is likely to be selected. Therefore, when the user arrives at interchange N, the user may notice traffic congestion, which may hinder smooth arrival at destination Z. In the example of FIG. 21, the user is guided to exit onto a public road from interchange M, so that the user can smoothly arrive at destination Z via route X. Some kind of incentive may be given to a user who adopts the travel plan. For example, the user may be given incentives such as preferential use of facilities included in the travel plan or discounts on the use area of ​​those facilities.

[0106] (operation) Next, an example of the operation of the road control device 30 will be described with reference to the drawings. Fig. 22 is a flowchart for explaining an example of the operation of the road control device 30. In the explanation following the flowchart of Fig. 22, the road control device 30 will be described as the subject of the operation.

[0107] In FIG. 22, first, the road control device 30 collects road information (step S311). For example, the road control device 30 collects road information about the roads to be managed from a plurality of sensors installed on the roads to be managed. For example, the road control device 30 collects road information about the roads to be managed from sensors mounted on vehicles traveling on the roads to be managed or from mobile terminals carried by vehicle occupants. For example, the road control device 30 may collect environmental information such as weather forecasts and event information for the area where the roads to be managed are located. For example, the road control device 30 may collect information posted on social networks and news reports about the area where the roads to be managed are located.

[0108] Next, the road control device 30 determines road conditions using the collected road information (step S312). For example, the road control device 30 determines road conditions such as the occurrence of congestion on roads that are subject to management.

[0109] Next, the road control device 30 generates guidance information according to the determination result of the road conditions (step S313). For example, if a certain parking area is congested, the road control device 30 generates guidance information for guiding the vehicle to another parking area.

[0110] Next, the road control device 30 outputs guidance information according to the determination result regarding the road conditions (step S314). For example, the guidance information output from the road control device 30 is displayed on an electronic bulletin board that can be seen from the vehicle to which the guidance information is output. For example, the guidance information output from the road control device 30 is notified to the navigation system of the vehicle traveling on the road to be managed, or to a mobile terminal carried by the vehicle occupant.

[0111] As described above, the road control device of this embodiment includes a collection unit, a determination unit, a guidance information generation unit, and an output unit. The collection unit collects road information according to the driving conditions of vehicles traveling on roads to be managed. The determination unit determines the road conditions of the roads to be managed using the collected road information. The guidance information generation unit generates guidance information for vehicles traveling on the roads to be managed according to the determination result by the determination unit. The output unit outputs the guidance information generated by the guidance information generation unit to vehicles to which the guidance information is to be output.

[0112] The road control device of this embodiment outputs guidance information according to the determination result regarding the road conditions of the managed road to vehicles traveling on the managed road. That is, the road control device of this embodiment can provide guidance information according to the road conditions of the managed road to vehicles traveling on the managed road. By checking the guidance information, the driver of the vehicle can respond to driving in accordance with the guidance information.

[0113] In one aspect of this embodiment, the guidance information generation unit generates a travel plan including guidance information for using managed roads. The output unit outputs the travel plan generated by the guidance information generation unit to a vehicle to which the travel plan is presented. According to this aspect, a travel plan based on the road conditions of the managed roads can be provided to a user using the vehicle to which the travel plan is presented.

[0114] In one aspect of this embodiment, the guidance information generation unit generates incentive information including an incentive for the vehicle according to the guidance information. The output unit outputs the incentive information generated by the guidance information generation unit to the vehicle to which the incentive is to be granted. According to this aspect, by granting an incentive according to the guidance information of the managed road, the likelihood that the guidance information will be followed by a user seeking an incentive is increased.

[0115] (Fourth embodiment) Next, a road control device according to a fourth embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. The road control device of this embodiment outputs control signals to vehicles traveling on managed roads in accordance with the road conditions of the managed roads. In this embodiment, it is assumed that vehicles whose travel can be controlled by the road control device are traveling on managed roads. In the following, descriptions of the managed roads of the road control device and sensors installed on the managed roads will be omitted.

[0116] (composition) 23 is a block diagram showing an example of a detailed configuration of the road control device 40. The road control device 40 has a collection unit 41, a determination unit 42, a control signal generation unit 43, and an output unit 45. The driving instruction generation unit 23 of the second embodiment or the guidance information generation unit 33 of the third embodiment may be added to the road control device 40.

[0117] The collection unit 41 has the same configuration as the collection unit 11 of the first embodiment. The collection unit 41 receives road information transmitted from a plurality of sensors installed on roads to be managed. The collection unit 41 also receives road information transmitted from vehicles traveling on roads to be managed. The collection unit 41 also receives weather information and earthquake information for an area including roads to be managed. Weather information and earthquake information are included in environmental information. The collection unit 41 may also acquire posted information and news information about an area including roads to be managed that is posted via a social network. There are no particular limitations on the method by which the collection unit 41 collects road information, environmental information, posted information, and news information.

[0118] The determination unit 42 has the same configuration as the determination unit 12 of the first embodiment. The determination unit 42 determines the road conditions of the managed roads using the collected road information. The determination unit 42 may determine the road conditions of the managed roads using environmental information. The determination unit 42 may determine the road conditions of the managed roads using posted information posted via a social network. The determination unit 42 may determine the road conditions of the managed roads according to keywords included in the posted information and news reports.

[0119] The control signal generation unit 43 generates a control signal for controlling vehicles traveling on the roads under management in accordance with the road condition determination result by the determination unit 42. For example, in accordance with the determination result that congestion will occur in the sag section, the control signal generation unit 43 generates a control signal for causing a vehicle approaching an uphill slope from the sag section to travel at a constant speed through the sag section. For example, in accordance with the determination result that excessive speed will occur on a gentle downhill slope, the control signal generation unit 43 generates a control signal for causing a vehicle approaching a gentle downhill slope to travel at a constant speed down the gentle downhill slope. For example, in accordance with the determination result that congestion will occur due to an obstacle on the road ahead, the control signal generation unit 43 generates a control signal for causing a vehicle approaching a point where the obstacle is located to change lanes to avoid the obstacle.

[0120] The output unit 45 outputs a control signal according to the determination result regarding the road conditions of the road to be managed to the vehicle to be controlled. The vehicle to be controlled is controlled to travel appropriately according to the road conditions by being controlled according to the control signal.

[0121] [Vehicle to be controlled] Fig. 24 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of the configuration of a vehicle (controlled vehicle 410) whose running is controlled by road control device 40. Controlled vehicle 410 in Fig. 24 is just an example and does not limit the configuration of vehicles whose running is controlled by road control device 40. Furthermore, controlled vehicle 410 in Fig. 24 conceptually shows the configuration of a vehicle whose running is controlled by road control device 40, and does not include all the configurations required for actual running.

[0122] The controlled vehicle 410 has a communication unit 411, a sensor 412, a driving control unit 413, a motor 414, a rechargeable battery 415, and a charge management unit 416. The controlled vehicle 410 has a steering wheel SW that accepts operation of the traveling direction. The controlled vehicle 410 also has an accelerator pedal (not shown) that accepts an acceleration operation and a brake pedal (not shown) that accepts a deceleration operation. The controlled vehicle 410 is provided with a pair of front tires FT and a pair of rear tires RT. Components such as an inverter, transmission, cooler, and heater are omitted from FIG. 24.

[0123] The communication unit 411 is a communication interface that communicates with the road control device 40. The communication unit 411 is wirelessly connected to the road control device 40. The communication unit 411 receives a control signal transmitted from the road control device 40. The communication unit 411 outputs the received control signal to the driving control unit 413. The communication unit 411 also transmits sensor data detected by the sensor 412 to the road control device 40. The road control device 40 and the controlled vehicle 410 communicate interactively with each other, thereby realizing driving control of the controlled vehicle 410 by the road control device 40.

[0124] For example, the communication unit 411 is connected to the road control device 40 via a wireless station (not shown) such as a base station. For example, the communication unit 411 is connected to the road control device 40 via wireless communication such as WiFi (registered trademark) or Bluetooth (registered trademark). For example, the communication unit 411 is connected to the road control device 40 via a high-speed communication line such as LTE (Long Term Evolution), fourth-generation mobile communication, or fifth-generation mobile communication. There are no particular limitations on the connection between the communication unit 411 and the road control device 40.

[0125] The sensor 412 is mounted on the controlled vehicle 410. The sensor 412 detects various physical quantities related to the traveling of the controlled vehicle 410. For example, the sensor 412 detects the positions of an accelerator pedal or a brake pedal in response to pedal operation by the driver. For example, the sensor 412 detects the rotational speed of a tire. For example, the sensor 412 detects an impact for activating an airbag (not shown) mounted on the controlled vehicle 410. For example, the sensor 412 detects / measures the current of the motor 414. The physical quantities detected by the sensor 412 are not limited to those listed here. For example, the sensor 412 may have functions such as identifying a key, detecting whether the driver is seated or looking at the vehicle, and measuring the temperature inside the vehicle. For example, the sensor 412 may have an acceleration sensor, an angular velocity sensor, or a vibration sensor. For example, the sensor 412 may have a function for capturing images of the outside / inside of the vehicle. For example, the sensor 412 may have a function for detecting light in the ultraviolet, visible, or infrared ranges. The function of the sensor 412 is not particularly limited.

[0126] The driving control unit 413 acquires a control signal transmitted from the road control device 40. The driving control unit 413 controls the rotation speed of the motor 414 in accordance with the control signal. The controlled vehicle 410 accelerates as the rotation speed of the motor 414 increases in accordance with the control signal. Conversely, the controlled vehicle 410 decelerates as the rotation speed of the motor 414 decreases in accordance with the control signal. The driving control unit 413 also controls the rotation direction of the steering wheel SW in accordance with the control signal. The controlled vehicle 410 turns right as the steering wheel SW rotates clockwise in accordance with the control signal. The controlled vehicle 410 turns left as the steering wheel SW rotates counterclockwise in accordance with the control signal.

[0127] When driving in response to the driver's operation, the driving control unit 413 drives in response to the pedal operation or steering operation by the driver. For example, the driving control unit 413 controls the rotation of the motor 414 in response to the position of the accelerator pedal or brake pedal detected by the sensor 412. The driving control based on the control signal transmitted from the road control device 40 may take priority over the driver's operation. For example, in response to receiving the control signal transmitted from the road control device 40, the driving control unit 413 may be configured to perform control to stop the driver's operation.

[0128] If an automatic driving function is installed, the driving control unit 413 controls the driving of the controlled vehicle 410 in accordance with a driving program. The driving control unit 413 controls the controlled vehicle 410 in accordance with physical quantities and objects detected by the sensor 412. The driving control unit 413 controls the driving of the controlled vehicle 410 in accordance with the lane of the road detected by the sensor 412. The driving control unit 413 controls the driving of the controlled vehicle 410 in accordance with the positional relationship with surrounding vehicles detected by the sensor 412. For example, when a person is detected ahead by the sensor 412, the driving control unit 413 controls the controlled vehicle 410 to stop. There are no particular limitations on the automatic driving function.

[0129] Furthermore, the driving control unit 413 acquires the state of the rechargeable battery 415, such as the charge amount, temperature, charging, discharging, etc., from the charge management unit 416. The driving control unit 413 controls the driving of the controlled vehicle 410 according to the state of the rechargeable battery 415. For example, if the charge amount of the rechargeable battery 415 becomes low, the driving control unit 413 lowers the upper limit of the rotation speed of the motor 414 to control the consumption rate of the power stored in the rechargeable battery 415. For example, if the temperature of the rechargeable battery 415 rises suddenly, the driving control unit 413 lowers the rotation speed of the motor 414 to slow down the speed of the controlled vehicle 410 or stop the controlled vehicle 410.

[0130] The motor 414 is connected to the rotational axis of the rear tire RT via a transmission and a rotating shaft (not shown). The rear tire RT rotates in accordance with the rotation of the motor 414. The rotational speed of the rear tire RT changes in accordance with the rotational speed of the motor 414. When the rotational speed of the motor 414 increases, the rotational speed of the rear tire RT increases, and the speed of the controlled vehicle 410 increases. Conversely, when the rotational speed of the motor 414 decreases, the rotational speed of the rear tire RT decreases, and the speed of the controlled vehicle 410 decreases. Figure 24 shows an example of rear-wheel drive. In the case of front-wheel drive, the motor 414 is connected to the rotational axis of the front tire FT via a transmission and a rotating shaft (not shown).

[0131] The rechargeable battery 415 is a power source for the controlled vehicle 410. The rechargeable battery 415 is a high-output, large-capacity lithium-ion battery. The power stored in the rechargeable battery 415 is used to power the controlled vehicle 410. The power stored in the rechargeable battery 415 is also used to power various devices mounted on the controlled vehicle 410. Note that the controlled vehicle 410 may be equipped with a battery in addition to the rechargeable battery 415. The rechargeable battery 415 is charged with power supplied via a charging plug (not shown).

[0132] The charge management unit 416 manages the power charged in the rechargeable battery 415. The charge management unit 416 safely controls the rechargeable battery 415 by preventing overcharging, overheating, and excessive discharging of the rechargeable battery 415. The status of the rechargeable battery 415 managed by the charge management unit 416 is displayed on a display unit that can be checked by the driver of the controlled vehicle 410. The charge management unit 416 also outputs the charge amount, temperature, charge state, and discharge state of the rechargeable battery 415 to the driving control unit 413.

[0133] [Drive control] Next, the travel control of the controlled vehicle 410 by the road traffic control device 40 will be described with reference to the drawings. Figs. 25 to 27 are conceptual diagrams showing an example of travel control of the controlled vehicle 410 by the road traffic control device 40. Figs. 25 to 27 show changes in the positional relationship between two controlled vehicles 410 (vehicle V1, vehicle V2) over time at time t1 (left), time t2 (center), and time t3 (right). Figs. 25 to 27 show changes in the positional relationship between vehicle V1 and vehicle V2 before and after a sag section. In Figs. 25 to 27, it is assumed that vehicle V1 and vehicle V2 were traveling at the same speed until they approached the sag section. In Figs. 25 to 27, the speeds of vehicle V1 and vehicle V2 are indicated by the length of the arrows. The longer the arrow, the faster the speed, and the shorter the arrow, the slower the speed.

[0134] FIG. 25 shows an example in which the road traffic control device 40 does not perform driving control of the control target vehicle 410. At time t1, vehicle V1 traveling ahead approaches a sag section. The driver of vehicle V1 does not notice the sag section and does not change the amount of accelerator operation. At time t2, as vehicle V1 passes through the sag section, the speed of vehicle V1 decreases. As a result, the gap between vehicle V1 and vehicle V2 decreases. At time t3, the driver of vehicle V2 traveling behind vehicle V1 takes his foot off the accelerator pedal and depresses the brake pedal to increase the gap between vehicle V1 and vehicle V2. In this way, the speed of vehicle V2 decreases. Similar to vehicle V2, the speeds of the vehicles following vehicle V2 also decrease one after another. As a result, traffic congestion occurs before and after the sag section.

[0135] FIG. 26 shows an example of driving control of a controlled vehicle 410 by the road control device 40. At time t1, a vehicle V1 traveling ahead approaches a sag section. The road control device 40 controls the driving of the vehicle V1 and the vehicle V2 before and after the sag section. At time t3, the road control device 40 transmits a control signal to the vehicle V1 to maintain the rotation speed of the motor 414 of the vehicle V1 so that the speed of the vehicle V1 does not decrease after passing through the sag section. As a result, the vehicle V1 continues to drive at the same speed as before passing through the sag section (time t1). At time t3, the road control device 40 transmits a control signal to the vehicle V2 to maintain the rotation speed of the motor 414 of the vehicle V2 so that the speed of the vehicle V2 does not decrease after passing through the sag section. As a result, the vehicle V2 continues to drive at the same speed as before passing through the sag section (time t2). In this way, the speeds of the vehicles V1 and V2 are maintained before and after the sag section. As with vehicle V2, the speed of the vehicles following vehicle V2 is maintained, so that no traffic congestion occurs before or after the sag section.

[0136] FIG. 27 shows another example of driving control of a controlled vehicle 410 by the road control device 40. In the example of FIG. 27, the road control device 40 controls driving in accordance with the distance between vehicle V1 and vehicle V2. At time t1, vehicle V1 traveling ahead approaches a sag section. At this stage, the road control device 40 does not control driving of vehicle V1. Assume that the driver of vehicle V1 does not notice the sag section and does not change the amount of accelerator operation. At time t2, as vehicle V1 passes through the sag section, the speed of vehicle V1 decreases. As a result, the distance between vehicle V1 and vehicle V2 becomes smaller. At this point, the road control device 40 controls driving of vehicle V1 and vehicle V2. At time t3, the road control device 40 transmits a control signal to vehicle V1 to temporarily increase the rotation speed of motor 414 of vehicle V1. Meanwhile, the road control device 40 transmits a control signal to the vehicle V2 to temporarily reduce the rotation speed of the motor 414 of the vehicle V2. As a result, the speed of the vehicle V1 that has passed the sag section temporarily increases, and the speed of the vehicle V2 that is approaching the sag section temporarily decreases. At time t3, the distance between the vehicles V1 and V2 increases due to the cruise control at time t3. After time t3, the cruise control is performed so that the speeds of the vehicles V1 and V2 are the same. In this way, the distance between the vehicles V1 and V2 is maintained after the sag section. As with the vehicle V2, the vehicle following the vehicle V2 also maintains a distance from the following vehicle after the sag section. As a result, no traffic congestion occurs before or after the sag section. The example in FIG. 27 is efficient because the temporary cruise control can avoid traffic congestion at the sag section.

[0137] (operation) Next, an example of the operation of the road control device 40 will be described with reference to the drawings. Fig. 28 is a flowchart for explaining an example of the operation of the road control device 40. In the explanation following the flowchart of Fig. 28, the road control device 40 will be described as the subject of the operation.

[0138] In FIG. 28, first, the road control device 40 collects road information (step S411). For example, the road control device 40 collects road information about the roads to be managed from a plurality of sensors installed on the roads to be managed. For example, the road control device 40 collects road information about the roads to be managed from sensors mounted on vehicles traveling on the roads to be managed or from mobile terminals carried by vehicle occupants. For example, the road control device 40 may collect environmental information such as weather forecasts and event information for the area where the roads to be managed are located. For example, the road control device 40 may collect information posted on social networks and news reports about the area where the roads to be managed are located.

[0139] Next, the road control device 40 determines road conditions using the collected road information (step S412). For example, the road control device 40 determines road conditions such as the occurrence of congestion on roads that are subject to management.

[0140] Next, the road control device 40 generates a control signal according to the result of the road condition determination (step S413). For example, when a traffic jam occurs due to a speed decrease in a sag section, the road control device 40 generates a control signal to increase the speed of the control target vehicle 410 that is causing the traffic jam.

[0141] Next, the road control device 40 outputs a control signal according to the determination result regarding the road conditions to the control-target vehicle 410 (step S414). The control signal output from the road control device 40 is received by the control-target vehicle 410. The driving of the control-target vehicle 410 is controlled in accordance with the control signal.

[0142] As described above, the road control device of this embodiment includes a collection unit, a determination unit, a control signal generation unit, and an output unit. The collection unit collects road information according to the driving conditions of vehicles traveling on roads to be managed. The determination unit determines the road conditions of the roads to be managed using the collected road information. The control signal generation unit generates a control signal for a target vehicle traveling on the road to be managed, according to the determination result by the determination unit. The output unit outputs the control signal generated by the control signal generation unit to the target vehicle.

[0143] The road control device of this embodiment outputs a control signal according to the determination result regarding the road conditions of the managed road to a controlled vehicle traveling on the managed road. The road control device of this embodiment can control the traveling of a controlled vehicle traveling on the managed road in accordance with the road conditions of the managed road.

[0144] In one aspect of the present embodiment, the control signal generation unit generates a control signal for a target vehicle traveling within a specific range of the managed road. The output unit outputs the control signal generated by the control signal generation unit to the target vehicle traveling within the specific range of the managed road. According to this aspect, the target vehicle traveling within the specific range of the managed road can be controlled to travel in accordance with the road conditions of the managed road.

[0145] (Fifth embodiment) Next, a road control device according to a fifth embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. The road control device of this embodiment has a simplified configuration of the road control devices according to the first to fourth embodiments.

[0146] 29 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a road control device 50 according to this embodiment. The road control device 50 includes a collection unit 51, a determination unit 52, and an output unit 55.

[0147] The collection unit 51 collects road information according to the driving conditions of vehicles traveling on roads to be managed. The determination unit 52 determines the road conditions of the roads to be managed using the collected road information. The output unit 55 outputs the determination result regarding the road conditions of the roads to vehicles traveling on the roads to be managed.

[0148] The road control device of this embodiment outputs the determination result regarding the road conditions of the managed road to vehicles traveling on the managed road. That is, the road control device of this embodiment can provide information corresponding to the road conditions of the managed road to vehicles traveling on the managed road. By checking the determination result regarding the road conditions of the managed road on which the vehicle is traveling, the driver of the vehicle can respond to the driving according to the determination result.

[0149] (Hardware) Here, a hardware configuration for executing control and processing according to each embodiment of the present disclosure will be described using an information processing device 90 in Fig. 30 as an example. Note that the information processing device 90 in Fig. 30 is an example configuration for executing control and processing according to each embodiment, and does not limit the scope of the present disclosure.

[0150] As shown in Fig. 30, an information processing device 90 includes a processor 91, a main storage device 92, an auxiliary storage device 93, an input / output interface 95, and a communication interface 96. In Fig. 30, interface is abbreviated as I / F (Interface). The processor 91, the main storage device 92, the auxiliary storage device 93, the input / output interface 95, and the communication interface 96 are connected to each other via a bus 98 so as to be able to communicate data with each other. The processor 91, the main storage device 92, the auxiliary storage device 93, and the input / output interface 95 are also connected to a network such as the Internet or an intranet via the communication interface 96.

[0151] The processor 91 loads a program stored in an auxiliary storage device 93 or the like into a main storage device 92. The processor 91 executes the program loaded into the main storage device 92. In this embodiment, a software program installed in the information processing device 90 may be used. The processor 91 executes control and processing according to each embodiment.

[0152] The main memory device 92 has an area in which programs are loaded. Programs stored in the auxiliary memory device 93 or the like are loaded into the main memory device 92 by the processor 91. The main memory device 92 is realized by a volatile memory such as a DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory). Furthermore, a non-volatile memory such as an MRAM (Magnetoresistive Random Access Memory) may be configured / added to the main memory device 92.

[0153] The auxiliary storage device 93 stores various data such as programs. The auxiliary storage device 93 is realized by a local disk such as a hard disk or flash memory. Note that it is also possible to configure the main storage device 92 to store various data, thereby omitting the auxiliary storage device 93.

[0154] The input / output interface 95 is an interface for connecting the information processing device 90 to peripheral devices based on standards and specifications. The communication interface 96 is an interface for connecting to external systems and devices via a network such as the Internet or an intranet based on standards and specifications. The input / output interface 95 and the communication interface 96 may be a common interface for connecting to external devices.

[0155] Input devices such as a keyboard, mouse, and touch panel may be connected to the information processing device 90 as needed. These input devices are used to input information and settings. When a touch panel is used as the input device, the display screen of the display device may also serve as the interface for the input device. Data communication between the processor 91 and the input devices may be mediated by an input / output interface 95.

[0156] The information processing device 90 may also be equipped with a display device for displaying information. When a display device is equipped, the information processing device 90 preferably includes a display control device (not shown) for controlling the display of the display device. The display device may be connected to the information processing device 90 via the input / output interface 95.

[0157] The information processing device 90 may also be equipped with a drive device. The drive device acts as an intermediary between the processor 91 and a recording medium (program recording medium) for reading data and programs from the recording medium, writing the processing results of the information processing device 90 to the recording medium, etc. The drive device may be connected to the information processing device 90 via an input / output interface 95.

[0158] The above is an example of a hardware configuration for enabling control and processing according to each embodiment of the present invention. Note that the hardware configuration in FIG. 30 is an example of a hardware configuration for executing control and processing according to each embodiment, and does not limit the scope of the present invention. Furthermore, a program that causes a computer to execute control and processing according to each embodiment is also within the scope of the present invention. Furthermore, a program recording medium on which a program according to each embodiment is recorded is also within the scope of the present invention. The recording medium can be realized, for example, as an optical recording medium such as a CD (Compact Disc) or a DVD (Digital Versatile Disc). The recording medium may also be realized as a semiconductor recording medium such as a USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory or an SD (Secure Digital) card. The recording medium may also be realized as a magnetic recording medium such as a flexible disk or other recording medium. When a program executed by a processor is recorded on a recording medium, the recording medium corresponds to a program recording medium.

[0159] The components of each embodiment may be combined in any manner, and may be realized by software or by a circuit.

[0160] Although the present invention has been described above with reference to the embodiments, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments. Various modifications that can be understood by those skilled in the art can be made to the configuration and details of the present invention within the scope of the present invention.

[0161] Some or all of the above-described embodiments can be described as, but are not limited to, the following supplementary notes. (Appendix 1) a collection unit that collects road information according to the driving conditions of vehicles that drive on roads under management; a determination unit that determines the road conditions of the roads to be managed by using the collected road information; an output unit that outputs a determination result regarding the road conditions of the managed road to the vehicle traveling on the managed road. (Appendix 2) The collecting unit collecting, as the road information, sensor data measured by a plurality of sensors installed at specific points on the road to be managed; The determination unit combining the sensor data collected at the specific location to determine road conditions at the specific location; The output unit 2. The road control device according to claim 1, wherein the determination result by the determination unit is output to a vehicle traveling through the specific point. (Appendix 3) The collecting unit collecting sensor data measured by sensors installed around the sag section as the road information; The determination unit determining road conditions related to traffic congestion at the sag section using the sensor data collected around the sag section; The output unit 2. A road control device as described in claim 1, wherein the determination result by the determination unit is output to the vehicle that is causing the traffic congestion among the vehicles traveling through the sag section. (Appendix 4) The collecting unit collecting, as the road information, sensor data measured by sensors installed around a gentle downhill slope; The determination unit using the sensor data collected around the gentle downhill slope to determine road conditions related to an increasing trend in the traveling speed of the vehicle traveling on the gentle downhill slope; The output unit 2. The road control device according to claim 1, wherein the determination result by the determination unit is output to a vehicle traveling on the gentle downhill slope whose traveling speed is tending to increase. (Appendix 5) The collecting unit Collect environmental information for the area including the roads under management; The determination unit 5. A road control device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, which uses the road information and the environmental information to determine the road conditions of the roads to be managed. (Appendix 6) The collecting unit collecting weather information for an area including the roads under management as the environmental information; The determination unit 6. A road control device according to claim 5, which determines the road conditions of the managed roads using the weather information included in the environmental information. (Appendix 7) The collecting unit collecting, as the environmental information, event information relating to events held in an area including the road under management; The determination unit 7. A road control device according to claim 5 or 6, which determines the road conditions of the roads to be managed by using the event information included in the environmental information. (Appendix 8) The determination unit 8. A road control device according to any one of appendices 5 to 7, which determines the road conditions of the managed road using an estimation model generated by learning using a dataset in which the environmental information, the road information, and the event occurrence location are explanatory variables and the occurrence event is a target variable, for past events that have occurred on the managed road. (Appendix 9) The collecting unit collecting the road information including a first image of the managed road taken at a time in the past and a second image of the managed road taken at a time different from the first image; The determination unit 9. The road control device according to claim 1, wherein the road condition of the managed road is determined based on the difference between the first image and the second image. (Appendix 10) a driving instruction generation unit that generates driving instructions for vehicles traveling on the managed road in accordance with the determination result by the determination unit, The output unit 10. The road control device according to claim 1, wherein the driving instruction generated by the driving instruction generating unit is output to the vehicle to which the driving instruction is to be output. (Appendix 11) a guidance information generating unit that generates guidance information for vehicles traveling on the managed road in accordance with the determination result by the determining unit, The output unit 10. The road control device according to claim 1, wherein the guidance information generated by the guidance information generating unit is output to the vehicle that is the output destination of the guidance information. (Appendix 12) The guidance information generation unit generating a travel plan including the guidance information using the managed roads; The output unit 12. The road control device according to claim 11, wherein the travel plan generated by the guidance information generation unit is output to the vehicle to which the travel plan is to be presented. (Appendix 13) The guidance information generation unit generating incentive information including an incentive for the vehicle according to the guidance information; The output unit 13. The road control device according to claim 11, wherein the incentive information generated by the guidance information generation unit is output to the vehicle to which the incentive is to be granted. (Appendix 14) a control signal generation unit that generates a control signal for a control target vehicle traveling on the managed road in accordance with the determination result by the determination unit, The output unit 14. The road control device according to claim 1, wherein the control signal generated by the control signal generating unit is output to the control target vehicle. (Appendix 15) The control signal generation unit generating the control signal for the control target vehicle traveling within a specific range of the management target road; The output unit 15. The road control device according to claim 14, wherein the control signal generated by the control signal generating unit is output to the control target vehicle traveling in the specific range of the management target road. (Appendix 16) The output unit 16. The road control device according to any one of appendices 1 to 15, wherein information according to the determination result by the determination unit is output to an electronic bulletin board installed on the road to be managed. (Appendix 17) The output unit 17. The road control device according to any one of appendices 1 to 16, wherein information according to the determination result by the determination unit is output to a navigation system mounted on the vehicle traveling on the managed road. (Appendix 18) The output unit 18. The road control device according to any one of appendices 1 to 17, wherein information according to the determination result by the determination unit is output to a mobile terminal carried by an occupant of the vehicle traveling on the managed road. (Appendix 19) The computer Collect road information according to the driving conditions of vehicles traveling on managed roads, Using the collected road information, determine the road conditions of the managed roads; A road control method for outputting a determination result regarding the road conditions of the road to be managed to the vehicle traveling on the road to be managed. (Appendix 20) A process of collecting road information according to the driving conditions of vehicles traveling on the roads to be managed; a process of determining road conditions of the roads to be managed using the collected road information; and outputting the determination result regarding the road conditions of the managed road to the vehicle traveling on the managed road. [Explanation of symbols]

[0162] 10, 20, 30, 40, 50 Road control equipment 11, 21, 31, 41, 51 Collection Department 12, 22, 32, 42, 52 Judgment section 15, 25, 35, 45, 55 Output section 23 Driving instruction generation unit 33 Guidance information generation section 43 Control signal generation unit 410 Controlled Vehicles 411 Communications Department 412 Sensors 413 Driving control unit 414 Motor 415 Rechargeable Battery 416 Charging Management Department

Claims

1. a collection means for collecting road information according to the driving conditions of vehicles traveling on the roads to be managed; a determining means for determining the road conditions of the roads to be managed by using the collected road information; a guidance information generating means for generating guidance information according to a scheduled time for a vehicle traveling on the road to be managed in accordance with the determination result; an output means for outputting a determination result relating to the road conditions of the managed road and the guidance information generated in accordance with the determination result to a vehicle traveling on the managed road, The collecting means Collecting sensor data measured by a plurality of sensors installed on the roads to be managed; The guide information generating means generating incentive information regarding an incentive to be given to a passenger or an owner of a vehicle that travels in accordance with the guidance information, in accordance with the behavioral performance identified using the collected sensor data; The output means A road control device that outputs the generated incentive information to a vehicle that is a destination of the guidance information.

2. The collecting means collecting, as the road information, sensor data measured by a plurality of sensors installed at specific points on the road to be managed; The determination means combining the sensor data collected at the specific location to determine road conditions at the specific location; The output means 2. The road control device according to claim 1, wherein the result of the determination by the determining means is output to a vehicle traveling through the specific point.

3. The collecting means collecting sensor data measured by sensors installed around the sag section as the road information; The determination means determining road conditions related to traffic congestion at the sag section using the sensor data collected around the sag section; The output means 2. The road control device according to claim 1, wherein the result of the determination by the determining means is output to a vehicle that is causing the traffic congestion among the vehicles traveling through the sag section.

4. The collecting means collecting, as the road information, sensor data measured by sensors installed around a gentle downhill slope; The determination means using the sensor data collected around the gentle downhill slope to determine road conditions related to an increasing trend in the traveling speed of a vehicle traveling on the gentle downhill slope; The output means 2. The road control device according to claim 1, wherein the result of the determination by the determining means is output to a vehicle traveling on the gentle downhill slope whose traveling speed is increasing.

5. The collecting means Collect environmental information for the area including the roads under management; The determination means The road control device according to claim 1 , wherein the road information and the environmental information are used to determine the road conditions of the road to be managed.

6. The collecting means collecting the road information including a first image of the managed road taken at a time in the past and a second image of the managed road taken at a time different from the first image; The determination means The road control device according to claim 1 , wherein the road condition of the managed road is determined based on a difference between the first image and the second image.

7. a control signal generating means for generating a control signal for a control target vehicle traveling on the managed road in accordance with the determination result by the determining means, The output means 7. The road control device according to claim 1, wherein the control signal generated by the control signal generating means is output to the vehicle to be controlled.

8. The computer Collect road information according to the driving conditions of vehicles traveling on managed roads, Using the collected road information, determine the road conditions of the managed roads; generating guidance information according to a scheduled time for a vehicle traveling on the road to be managed in accordance with the determination result; outputting a determination result regarding the road conditions of the managed road and the guidance information generated in accordance with the determination result to a vehicle traveling on the managed road; Collecting sensor data measured by a plurality of sensors installed on the roads to be managed; generating incentive information regarding an incentive to be given to a passenger or an owner of a vehicle that travels in accordance with the guidance information, in accordance with the behavioral performance identified using the collected sensor data; A road control method for outputting the generated incentive information to a vehicle to which the guidance information is to be output.

9. A process of collecting road information according to the driving conditions of vehicles traveling on the roads to be managed; a process of determining road conditions of the roads to be managed using the collected road information; A process of generating guidance information according to a scheduled time for a vehicle traveling on the managed road according to the determination result; a process of outputting a determination result regarding the road conditions of the managed road and the guidance information generated in accordance with the determination result to a vehicle traveling on the managed road; A process of collecting sensor data measured by a plurality of sensors installed on the roads to be managed; generating incentive information regarding an incentive to be given to a passenger or an owner of a vehicle that travels according to the guidance information, in accordance with the behavioral record identified using the collected sensor data; and outputting the generated incentive information to a vehicle to which the guidance information is to be output.

Images