Server equipment

Abstract

This server device is provided with one or a plurality of processors and a storage medium that stores a program to be executed by the one or plurality of processors, said program including one or a plurality of instructions. The one or plurality of instructions cause the one or plurality of processors to perform: registration processing for registering information about providers who provide chargers at home, and information about users who wish to use chargers at other people's homes; reservation setting processing for, in response to a use request transmitted from a certain user terminal, extracting a provider who matches the use request from the registered information, causing the user terminal to present information about the extracted provider, and setting a reservation according to reservation decision information from the user terminal; and settlement processing regarding a user's use of the provider's charger to charge a vehicle on the basis of the set reservation.

Description

Technical Field

[0005] , ,

[0006] , ,

[0001] The present invention relates to a server device and a technology for providing a charging spot to users of electric vehicles and the like.

Background Art

[0002] The following Patent Documents 1 and 2 disclose technologies for charging electric vehicles and aiming to use a household charging stand.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Summary of the Invention

[0007] According to this invention, ordinary homes can be used as charging spots, thus solving the shortage of charging spots for electric vehicles. Furthermore, the server device matches the usage area and time of day for providers and users, eliminating the risk of inconvenience for providers. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] This is an explanatory diagram of the system configuration of an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] This is a block diagram of an information processing device, such as a server device, according to the embodiment. [Figure 3] This is a block diagram of the vehicle configuration according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] This is an explanatory diagram of the procedure for the charger rental service according to the embodiment. [Figure 5]It is an explanatory diagram of the functional configuration of the server device according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] It is an explanatory diagram of the functional configuration of the user terminal according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] It is an explanatory diagram of the functional configuration of the provider terminal according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] It is a flowchart of the registration process according to the embodiment. [Figure 9] It is a flowchart of the reservation process according to the embodiment. [Figure 10] It is an explanatory diagram of an example display at the time of reservation according to the embodiment. [Figure 11] It is an explanatory diagram of an example display at the time of reservation according to the embodiment. [Figure 12] It is a flowchart of the process after charging execution according to the embodiment.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0009] <System Configuration> FIG. 1 shows a system configuration for a charger rental service in one embodiment. This system is a system capable of coordinating between a charger provider and a user who wants to rent a charger. In this system, a system management server device 1 (hereinafter referred to as "server device 1"), a user terminal 21, and a provider terminal 51 are configured to be communicable via a network 100.

[0010] A user is a person registered as a user in the charger rental service provided by the server device 1. A person who wants to use the charger rental service can register as a user and thus use another person's charger 53, for example, for a fee. A provider is a person who considers that the charger 53 installed in the parking lot 52 he / she is using may be lent to others and is registered as a provider in the charger rental service provided by the server device 1. By becoming a registered provider, it is possible to receive a reward as the consideration for allowing others to use the charger 53.

[0011] The user terminal 21 is an information processing device used by the user, and is a terminal device capable of communicating with at least the server device 1 via the network 100. For example, the information processing device in the vehicle 2 may be used as the user terminal 21, or an information processing device such as a smartphone, a personal computer, or a tablet device carried by the user may be used as the user terminal 21.

[0012] Using the user terminal 21, the user can enjoy the services provided by this system, for example, by browsing the website provided by the server device 1 or launching an application program using the user terminal 21.

[0013] The provider terminal 51 is an information processing device used by the provider, and is a terminal device capable of communicating with at least the server device 1 via the network 100. For example, it may be a personal computer or the like in the provider's residence 3, or an information processing device built into the charger 53. Further, a smartphone, a tablet device, or the like carried by the provider may be used as the provider terminal 51. Also, the information processing device in a vehicle (not shown) used by the provider may be used as the provider terminal 51. The information processing device built into the residence 3 or the charger 53 and the smartphone, tablet device, or the like carried by the provider may be used together as the provider terminal 51 in synchronization. Also, a smartphone, a tablet device, or the like carried by the provider may be used as a user interface device for the provider terminal 51 built into the residence 3 or the charger 53.

[0014] The provider terminal 51 performs processes such as transmitting provided information to the server device 1 according to the convenience of the provider, and transmitting information related to the rental operation of the charger 53 to the server device 1. Therefore, the provider terminal 51 only needs to be an information processing device capable of performing those processes, and the specific form is not limited. Also, for example, the smartphone and the information processing device in the charger 53 may cooperate to function as the provider terminal 51.

[0015] Server device 1 is a server device of a company operating a charger rental service, and consists of one or more information processing devices. Server device 1 is also able to access storage device 5. Storage device 5 contains a provider registration database 6 for registering providers and a user registration database 7 for registering users.

[0016] Server device 1 communicates with user terminal 21 and provider terminal 51, coordinating between users and providers to provide a matching service that ensures charging takes place at the location and time desired by the user. This allows users to charge their vehicles 2 even in areas where charging stations are not readily available. In addition, providers are compensated for lending out their chargers. Thus, this also provides providers with a simple business opportunity.

[0017] A charger 53 is installed in the parking lot 52 at the provider's residence 3. Normally, the provider's own vehicle is parked in the parking lot 52 and charged using the charger 53. In this embodiment of the charger rental service, when the provider is out in their vehicle and the parking lot 52 and charger 53 are not in use, users are able to charge their vehicles.

[0018] The charger 53 is equipped with a panel 55 that serves as a display and control panel, allowing for, for example, user operation during charging and guidance on usage. The user connects the gun 54 to the connector 67 (see Figure 3), which is the charging port of the vehicle 2, to perform charging. The charger 53 is equipped with an internal measurement circuit that measures the amount of charge, and measures the amount of charge during charging. The charge amount measurement information from this measurement circuit can be obtained by the provider terminal 51.

[0019] This example also shows a scenario where a camera 59 is installed in the parking lot 52. The camera 59 can capture images of, for example, the license plate, body, and charging status of the user's vehicle 2. The provider terminal 51 can obtain information about vehicle 2, such as the vehicle number and vehicle type, from the video captured by the camera 59. Alternatively, the provider terminal 51 may transmit the video data itself to the server device 1 so that the server device 1 can detect the vehicle number, vehicle type, etc.

[0020] In the diagram, the charger 53 is shown as being installed in the parking lot 52 of residence 3, but residence 3 can be any type of residence, such as a detached house or an apartment building. Also, the parking lot 52 is a separate location from residence 3 and may be a parking lot where the provider normally parks their vehicles. In this embodiment, the chargers 53 that are subject to the charger rental service are chargers installed in a parking lot 52 used by the provider, for example, a parking lot on the premises of the residence 3 which serves as the provider's home, or in a parking lot that is separate from the home but owned or rented by the provider. Furthermore, charger 53 is a charger that is owned or rented by the provider, and is usually used by the provider or their family members. However, the above is just one example where the provider is an individual. It is also conceivable that a company, organization, etc., may be the provider in this embodiment, and the parking lot and charger of the company, etc., may be the parking lot 52 and charger 53 in Figure 1.

[0021] <Configuration of the information processing device> Figure 2 shows an example configuration of an information processing device 30 that can be used as a server device 1, a user terminal 21, or a provider terminal 51.

[0022] The information processing device 30 is comprised of a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 31, ROM (Read Only Memory) 32, RAM (Random Access Memory) 33, bus 34, input / output interface 35, input unit 36, output unit 37, storage unit 38, communication unit 39, media drive 40, and the like.

[0023] The CPU 31 executes various processes according to the program stored in the ROM 32 or the program loaded from the memory unit 38 into the RAM 33. The RAM 33 also stores data that is necessary for the CPU 31 to execute various processes.

[0024] The CPU 31, ROM 32, and RAM 33 are interconnected via a bus 34. An input / output interface 35 is also connected to the bus 34.

[0025] The input / output interface 35 is connected to an input unit 36, an output unit 37, a storage unit 38, a communication unit 39, and a media drive 40. The input unit 36 ​​consists of a keyboard, mouse, touch panel, microphone, and the like. The output unit 37 consists of a display made of an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), an organic EL (Electro Luminescence) panel, and a speaker, among other components.

[0026] The storage unit 38 is composed of an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or a flash memory device. When this information processing device 30 is used as a server device 1, the storage unit 38 may also be used to configure a database that stores registered information, etc.

[0027] The communications unit 39 performs communication processing and inter-device communication via the communication network. A removable media 41, such as a semiconductor memory card, is inserted into the media drive 40, and information is written to and read from the removable media 41.

[0028] In the information processing device 30, data and programs are uploaded and downloaded via communication by the communication unit 39. Data and programs can also be transferred via removable media 41. The CPU 31 performs processing operations based on various programs, thereby executing the necessary information processing and communication for the server device 1, user terminal 21, or provider terminal 51.

[0029] <Vehicle configuration> Incidentally, the in-vehicle system may be used as a user terminal 21 or a provider terminal 51. Therefore, Figure 3 shows the charging-related configuration of vehicle 2, along with example configurations for functioning as a user terminal 21 or a provider terminal 51.

[0030] Vehicle 2 is equipped with a control device 61, an on-board battery 62, a PCU (Power Control Unit) 63, a motor 64, an operating unit 65, a display unit 66, a connector unit 67, and a communication unit 68.

[0031] Note that Figure 3 shows only some of the components of Vehicle 2; Vehicle 2 is also equipped with a map locator, various sensors for driving, communication equipment, etc., which are not shown.

[0032] The control device 61 is configured with a CPU, memory, etc., and performs overall control of the vehicle 2. The control device 61 may be provided as a single unit, or it may be composed of multiple ECUs (Electronic Control Units). Multiple ECUs may include, for example, a battery control ECU that controls the charging of the onboard battery 62, a display control ECU that controls the display of display devices (including meters, etc.) provided by the vehicle 2, an airbag control ECU, an air conditioning control ECU, and various other types.

[0033] In this embodiment, it is also assumed that vehicle 2 is an autonomous vehicle, and therefore it is equipped with information processing devices necessary for autonomous driving. For example, the control device 61 may include an autonomous driving ECU that determines the driving path and performs control according to the external environment, a driving control ECU that controls driving and stopping by motor in accordance with instructions from the autonomous driving ECU, and a steering control ECU that performs steering control in accordance with instructions from the autonomous driving ECU. Although not shown in the diagram, Vehicle 2 is equipped with devices for sensing the surroundings, such as cameras and sensors, as well as map information, road information, current location information, etc., for the purpose of autonomous driving control. To obtain It will also be equipped with detection devices.

[0034] The control device 61 performs various functions by executing various programs stored in memory or the like. Therefore, the control device 61 can adopt a configuration equivalent to that shown in Figure 2.

[0035] The on-board battery 62 is a high-voltage battery used to power the vehicle 2. The on-board battery 62 is Vehicle 2 The system supplies power used to drive the wheels, power used to operate the air conditioning equipment of vehicle 2, and power used to operate other equipment. Figure 3 shows the power supply from the onboard battery 62 for driving the wheels and power supply to the display unit 66, but the illustration of the power supply used for the operation of other parts is omitted.

[0036] The onboard battery 62 is charged by the current supplied from the PCU 63. The onboard battery 62 supplies the power supply voltage to the PCU 63 for driving the motor 64.

[0037] The PCU63 is configured to include an inverter, a DC / DC converter, and other components for driving the motor 64. The PCU63 generates an alternating current to drive the motor 64 based on the supplied power supply voltage and supplies it to the motor 64. The PCU63 controls the torque of the motor 64 by controlling the alternating current. The PCU63 may also have a regenerative braking function to optimize energy efficiency by utilizing regenerative energy.

[0038] Motor 64 is configured as a motor generator with a power generation function, and drives the wheels based on the supplied alternating current.

[0039] The control unit 65 includes, for example, various buttons, levers, and other controls located in front of the driver's seat of the vehicle 2. The control unit 65 may also include a touch panel MFD (Multi Function Display) or a navigation system display unit.

[0040] The display unit 66 comprehensively represents, for example, an MFD (Multi-Function Display) installed in front of the driver, and other display devices for presenting information to the driver. The display unit 66 displays information based on detection signals detected by various sensors installed in the vehicle 2. Various information such as the vehicle's total mileage, outside temperature, and instantaneous fuel consumption is displayed on the display unit 66 as appropriate. In addition, the display unit 66 can display map information and extracted route information. The display unit 66 can also be configured to display the screen for the charger rental service of this embodiment.

[0041] The connector section 67 has a structure that allows a charging plug (gun 54) from a charging device such as a charger 53 to be inserted. The connector section 67 outputs an AC voltage supplied via the inserted charging plug to the PCU 63. The PCU 63 charges the vehicle battery 62 by supplying a DC voltage converted by an AC / DC converter to the vehicle battery 62.

[0042] The communication unit 68 consists of wireless communication devices and is configured to communicate with, for example, a server device 1 via the network 100.

[0043] <Overview of Charger Rental Service> This section explains the general flow of the charger rental service provided by Server Device 1. The service, including the actions of users and providers, is implemented according to the steps (ST1) through (ST11) shown in Figure 4.

[0044] (ST1) A user who wishes to become a provider registers a rentable charger 53 with the server device 1 using the provider terminal 51. Specifically, the user registers personal information of the provider, payment information, location information of the parking lot 52, the model and specifications of the charger 53, etc. (ST2) Users who wish to become users register their user information (vehicle information, personal information, etc.) with the server device 1 using the user terminal 21.

[0045] (ST3) The provider may rent the charger 53 at any time via the provider terminal 51. Show date and time The provided information, including date and time information, is sent to the server device 1. The provided information is information that the provider tells the server device 1 that the parking lot 52 is available to others from a certain date and time to a certain date and time.

[0046] (ST4) At any time, the user can send a request to the server device via the user terminal 21 to use the charger 53. 1 The request is sent to the server. The request includes information such as the desired region and date / time. In response to the user's request, server device 1 selects a provider from among those whose information has been received that matches the region and date / time, and provides the user with a list of available chargers 53. The user then sends the desired charger 53 to server device 1. From among the 53 chargers available for rent Select and confirm your reservation. Server device 1 will configure the reservation settings according to the confirmation operation.

[0047] (ST5) The user's vehicle 2 moves to the parking lot 52 where the charger 53 is installed at the reserved date and time. (ST6) When using the charger 53, user authentication is performed by the user terminal 21, the provider terminal 51, or both. The authentication result is also shared with the server device 1. (ST7) Charging is performed. At this time, the amount of charge is also measured by the provider terminal 51. (ST8) After charging is complete, payment processing is performed between the user terminal 21 and the server device 1. (ST9) The user transmits the provider's evaluation information via the user terminal 21 (or a smartphone or other device that functions as the user interface device for the user terminal 21). (ST10) The provider sends the user's evaluation to the server device 1 via the provider terminal 51. (ST11) Server device 1 grants a reward to the provider.

[0048] Note that the order of (ST8), (ST9), (ST10), and (ST11) may differ from the above. Also, (ST1), (ST2), (ST3), and (ST4) are performed sequentially between an unspecified number of users and server device 1.

[0049] The functional configuration of the server device 1 for performing the charger rental service described above will now be explained. For example, the server device 1, which has the configuration of the information processing device 30 shown in Figure 2, realizes various functions by having the CPU 31 execute programs. Figure 5 shows an example of the functions that the CPU 31 provides for the charger rental service in this embodiment.

[0050] The registration processing unit 1a is a function that processes information related to the registration of users and providers. The server device 1 provides the charger rental service to users who have registered as users. The server device 1 also provides users with information on chargers 53 of users who meet certain criteria from among the users who have registered as providers.

[0051] The reservation setting processing unit 1b is a function that processes the reservation setting for charger rental between the user and the provider. For this purpose, the reservation setting processing unit 1b processes the information provided by the provider. The information provided is that the provider can provide the charger 53 and parking lot 52 to others. Show date and time It includes date and time information. For example, the date and time information includes the start date and time of the loan availability and the end date and time of the loan availability. The reservation setting processing unit 1b also receives reservation requests from users and introduces providers that meet the conditions.

[0052] The charging and payment management unit 1c is responsible for managing the use of the chargers 53 by users, processing payments from users, and providing compensation to providers.

[0053] Server device 1 performs the processes shown in Figures 8, 9, and 12, which will be described later, through the functions of the registration processing unit 1a, the reservation setting processing unit 1b, and the charging / payment management unit 1c.

[0054] Next, the functional configuration of the user terminal 21 will be described. For example, a user terminal 21 that has the configuration of the information processing device 30 in Figure 2, or a user terminal 21 that is realized as the control device 61 in Figure 3, will realize various functions by having the CPU 31 execute a program. Figure 6 shows an example of the functions that the CPU 31 of the user terminal 21 has with respect to the charger rental service of this embodiment.

[0055] The registration processing unit 21a is responsible for functions such as providing a user interface for users to register and transmitting registration information to the server device 1.

[0056] The reservation request processing unit 21b is a function that provides a user interface for users to submit usage requests and communicates with the server device 1.

[0057] The charging execution processing unit 21c is responsible for performing necessary processing when a user uses the charger 53 to perform charging, such as authentication processing and communication with the server device 1.

[0058] The user terminal 21 performs the processes shown in Figures 8, 9, and 12, which will be described later, through the functions of the registration processing unit 21a, the reservation request processing unit 21b, and the charging execution processing unit 21c.

[0059] Next, the functional configuration of the provider terminal 51 will be described. For example, a provider terminal 51 that has the configuration of the information processing device 30 in Figure 2, or a provider terminal 51 that is realized as the control device 61 in Figure 3, will realize various functions by having the CPU 31 execute a program. Figure 7 shows an example of the functions that the CPU 31 of the provider terminal 51 has with respect to the charger rental service of this embodiment.

[0060] The registration processing unit 51a has functions such as providing an interface for providers to register as providers and transmitting registration information to the server device 1.

[0061] The information provision processing unit 51b is a function that provides a user interface and communication for sending information to the server device 1 indicating the date and time when the provider is available for rental.

[0062] The charging management unit 51c has functions to perform necessary processing in response to a user using the charger 53 to charge the device, such as authentication processing, measurement of charging amount and power consumption, settlement processing, and communication with the server device 1 associated with these functions.

[0063] The provider terminal 51 performs the processing shown in Figures 8, 9, and 12, which will be described later, using the functions of the registration processing unit 51a, the provided information processing unit 51b, and the charging support management unit 51c.

[0064] The following describes an example of processing performed by the server device 1, user terminal 21, and provider terminal 51, all equipped with the above functions.

[0065] Figure 8 shows an example of the registration process that is performed in advance as (ST1) and (ST2) described above. This process is carried out by the functions of the registration processing unit 1a of the server device 1, the registration processing unit 21a of the user terminal 21, and the registration processing unit 51a of the provider terminal 51.

[0066] In step S101, the provider terminal 51 transmits registration information P11 to the server device 1. For example, a user who wants to become a provider operates the provider terminal 51, enters the necessary registration information, and performs a transmission operation. In response, the provider terminal 51 transmits the registration information P11.

[0067] The provider's registration information P11 includes, for example, personal information such as name, address, email address, and bank account for receiving payments, as well as information about the parking lot 52 and information about the charger 53.

[0068] Information regarding parking lot 52 includes its size and access to parking lot 52. route Images of parking lot 52, types of parking lot 52, pavement This could include factors such as whether or not there is a roof. Information regarding charger 53 is expected to include its type, product name, model number, charging capacity, various specifications, the type and length of gun 54, and an image of charger 53.

[0069] When server device 1 receives registration information P11 which includes some or all of these contents, it performs registration processing on the provider registration database 6 in storage device 5 in step S201. As a result, the user who performed the registration operation is registered as a provider of the charger rental service. Note that the provider does not need to enter all of the registration information on page 11. For example, for information regarding chargers, the provider only needs to enter the product name and model number of the charger, and the server device 1 will determine its specifications and register them in addition to the registration information on page 11.

[0070] In step S301, the user terminal 21 transmits registration information Q11 to the server device 1. For example, a user who wishes to become a user operates the user terminal 21, enters the necessary registration information, and performs a transmission operation. In response, the user terminal 21 transmits the registration information Q11.

[0071] User registration information (Q11) includes, for example, personal information such as name, address, email address, and credit card number for payment, as well as information about the vehicle.

[0072] Information about the vehicle is expected to include the make, model year, license plate number, and color. Furthermore, the type, product name, and model number of connectable chargers may be included in the registration information Q11. Alternatively, the server device 1 may determine which chargers can be connected based on the vehicle information.

[0073] When server device 1 receives registration information Q11 which includes some or all of these contents, it performs registration processing on the user registration database 7 in storage device 5 in step S202. As a result, the user who performed the registration operation is registered as a user.

[0074] As described above, the provider registration database 6 and the user registration database 7 are updated sequentially. Furthermore, providers in the provider registration database 6 and each user in the user registration database 7 input evaluation information about each other when renting. This input evaluation information is also added and updated sequentially by the server device 1 in the provider registration database 6 and the user registration database 7.

[0075] Next, Figure 9 will illustrate the processing related to (ST3) and (ST4) described above, that is, the processing up to the reservation of use. This processing is carried out by the functions of the reservation setting processing unit 1b of the server device 1, the reservation request processing unit 21b of the user terminal 21, and the provision information processing unit 51b of the provider terminal 51.

[0076] In step S120, the provider terminal 51 transmits the provided information P21 to the server device 1. For example, the provider can input the provided information into the provider terminal 51 and perform a transmission operation at any time, such as when they have decided on an outing or when they are about to go out, thereby transmitting the provided information P21 to the server device 1. Information P21 indicates that the provider can offer the charger 53 and parking space 52 to others. Show date and time This information includes date and time information and provider identification information. Date and time information, in particular, includes information that clearly indicates at least the start date and time of the loan availability and the end date and time of the loan availability.

[0077] When server device 1 receives the provided information P21, which includes date and time information and provider identification information, in step S220, it identifies the provider of the information P21 The system registers the provider as a valid provider for the period indicated by the date and time information included in the code. Furthermore, an unspecified number of providers each send provision information P21, including arbitrary date and time information, to the server device 1 at their own discretion. Each time, the server device 1 responds with the processing in step S220.

[0078] In step S320, the user terminal 21 sends a usage request Q21 to the server device 1. Users who wish to rent the charger 53 operate the user terminal 21 and input the required data for the usage request. For example, this data includes the region where the charger 53 is to be rented, the rental start date and time, the charging time (the time during which charging will be performed), the target charge rate or charging power, and the current charge rate (SOC: State of Charge).

[0079] Furthermore, when the control device 61 of vehicle 2 functions as a user terminal 21, the control device 61 only needs to detect the current charge level of the onboard battery 62. When a smartphone or the like is the user terminal 21, the smartphone or the like can also communicate with vehicle 2 to obtain the current charge level. Alternatively, the current charge level is User It would also be acceptable for the user to look at the display on the vehicle 2's display unit 66, etc., and input a rough percentage such as "50%" or "30%". Furthermore, the target charge rate is User You can specify a value roughly like "80%" or "100%". Alternatively, you can specify the charging power (W). User You may enter this information as you wish.

[0080] When a usage request Q21 containing some or all of the above information, such as the desired region, rental start date and time, charging time, target charge rate or charging power, and current charge rate, along with user identification information, is sent from the user terminal 21, the server device 1 performs candidate extraction for the usage request Q21 in step S221.

[0081] For example, server device 1 first accesses the user registration database 7 using the user's identification information and obtains vehicle information such as the make and model year of the user's vehicle 2. It also obtains information on compatible chargers if available. Furthermore, it obtains evaluation information about the user.

[0082] Server device 1 first processes the information of the providers whose information is entered, and then processes the region specified in the usage request Q21. conditions The system extracts providers that match the criteria. Furthermore, among providers whose location matches, it references date and time information to extract providers whose available time slots include the rental start date and time and charging time specified in usage request Q21. The charging time can be calculated, for example, by the server device 1 using the target charge rate in the usage request Q21, the current charge rate, and the charging capacity of each charger 53 that is entered as available for reservation. The system can then extract providers who have chargers available for rental for the calculated charging time.

[0083] Furthermore, if any of the providers listed as available for reservation include a charger 53 that is not compatible with the vehicle type specified in usage request Q21, or a parking lot 52 that is inaccessible to the vehicle type specified in usage request Q21 due to its width, height, etc., then the server device 1 will exclude that provider from the extraction process. Furthermore, the access route to parking lot 52 is narrow, etc., which is why the vehicle type mentioned in usage request Q21 is not suitable. Vehicles If the provider is unable to pass through the process, that provider will be excluded from the extraction.

[0084] Through these processes, server device 1 can extract the providers (parking lot 52 and charger 53) that are available for rental in response to usage request Q21. Provider This is because the charger 53 and parking lot 52 can be used at the desired date and time (time slot), and the charger 53, parking lot 52, and access route can be compatible with the user's vehicle 2. provider It refers to.

[0085] Once the server device 1 has extracted one or more rental providers, it sets the display area in step S222. For example, if the area where the rental provider's parking lot 52 is located is to be displayed in an area frame 72 on the map as shown in Figure 10, the range of that area frame 72 is set.

[0086] In the example shown in Figure 10, for example, within the map image 70, the location of the provider's parking lot 52 is only roughly indicated by an area frame 72, and specific locations are not shown with pins or other indicators. This is to deliberately prevent the identification of the provider's residence 3 and parking lot 52, which are available for reservation. In other words, since the reservation dates and times are when the provider is not at home, the location of the provider's residence 3 and parking lot 52 is not to be unnecessarily disclosed from a security standpoint.

[0087] To this end, the server device 1 sets the position and size of the area frame 72 based on the addresses of one or more providers extracted. For example, if multiple providers are selected, all of those providers Address Set the position and size of area frame 72 within the range that includes the information provided. However, it is preferable to set an expanded area frame 72 that covers a wider range than the minimum range that actually includes the addresses of each provider. Furthermore, if only one provider is extracted, the position and size of the area frame 72 should be set so that it is not centered on that provider's address (i.e., the address cannot be inferred from the area frame 72).

[0088] Area frame 72 is not limited to a circle; it can be square or irregular in shape. Alternatively, it can be a frame that follows the administrative boundaries of a city, town, or village. Ultimately, it is up to the user. Includes the address of each provider The system allows users to verify the location while ensuring that the exact addresses of each provider are not revealed to the user.

[0089] Then, in step S223, the server device 1 transmits area information, including the setting of the area frame 72, and information on candidate providers to the user terminal 21, so that the display shown in Figure 10 is shown on the user terminal 21. In the example shown in Figure 10, an area for provider information 71 is provided for each provider that offers the charger 53 for rent, so that the necessary information is displayed. The server device 1 also sends information about potential providers to the user terminal 21 in order to display the provider information 71.

[0090] Each provider information 71 displays information about the respective provider. Each By performing an operation on, handle The provider's details screen may open to display more detailed information. The following is a possible example of what might be displayed in these cases: • Provider evaluation information • The provider's charger model names, charging capacity, and estimated charging time for the 53 chargers. • 52 types of parking spaces provided by the provider (paved, gravel, covered, etc.) • Image of charger 53 • Image of parking lot 52 • Access to Parking Lot 52 route Road conditions (road width, pavement status, etc.)

[0091] For example, by presenting this information, it is possible to provide users with the information they need to make a choice while keeping the personal information of each provider's candidates confidential. Image 52 of the parking lot is particularly useful for showing the condition of the parking lot at the charging station. The image of charger 53 is also useful for clarifying the type of charger. Images of the gun 54's shape and connector may be provided to indicate the type of charger 53. If a conversion cable is available, an image of the cable may also be provided.

[0092] When presenting images, it is desirable to use methods such as blurring to obscure anything other than the intended object, so that users can use them as a reference when choosing a charging spot while ensuring the provider's security.

[0093] Here, it is advisable to reflect the evaluation information of the user who sent the usage request Q21 when setting the display area in step S222 by the server device 1. For example, while the display is normally as shown in Figure 10, for highly-rated users, the area frame 72 is made smaller, as shown in Figure 11. For instance, the position and size of the area frame 72 are set to include the minimum range necessary to encompass the addresses of multiple potential providers. This allows highly-rated users to select providers within a clearer range.

[0094] Furthermore, the information displayed in provider information 71 may be made more detailed depending on the user's rating. For example, images of chargers 53 and parking lots 52 are not normally displayed, but they could be displayed for users with high ratings.

[0095] In step S321, the user terminal 21 displays a screen like that shown in Figure 10 or Figure 11 to the user and performs processing in response to the user's actions. For example, the user terminal 21 may perform processing to display detailed information about the provider or to accept a decision operation to select a provider in response to the user's actions.

[0096] Although not shown in the diagram, the user may perform the request operation again in a different region or at a different time, in which case the process returns to step S320. The user may also perform the operation to cancel the request, in which case the user terminal 21 sends a cancellation notification to the server device 1.

[0097] When a user performs an operation to determine a provider, in step S322, the provider terminal 51 sends the determination operation information Q22 to the server device 1. In response, server device 1 performs reservation setting processing in step S224. That is, for the current user, it determines the provider according to the decision operation information Q22 and generates reservation setting information specifying the date and time.

[0098] Then, in step S225, the server device 1 sends reservation confirmation notices R22 and R23 to the provider terminal 51 and the user terminal 21. The reservation confirmation notice R22 contains information about the reservation date and time and the user. Based on this, the provider terminal 51 will: Step S121 The terminal 51 presents the information of the confirmed reservation. For example, the provider terminal 51 presents the user's name, date and time information including the start and end dates and times of charging, and vehicle information to the provider. The provider terminal 51 also stores this reservation information.

[0099] The reservation confirmation notice R23 also includes the reservation date and time, the location information of the provider's parking lot 52, and access information. route This includes information about the charger 53. Based on this, the user terminal 21 will Step S323 The information of the confirmed reservation is displayed. For example, the user terminal 21 displays the location information and access information of the parking lot 52, date and time information including the charging start date and time and the charging end date and time, and the parking lot 52 Information such as the location of the provider's parking lot 52 will be presented to the user. The user terminal 21 may also be configured to automatically set the location information of the provider's parking lot 52 as the destination for the navigation system or the autonomous driving control system.

[0100] Next, Figure 12 will explain the processing related to (ST5) through (ST11) described above, that is, the processing after the user's vehicle 2 arrives at the reserved parking lot 52. This processing is carried out by the functions of the charging and payment management unit 1c of the server device 1, the charging execution processing unit 21c of the user terminal 21, and the charging support management unit 51c of the provider terminal 51.

[0101] In the process shown in Figure 9 above, the vehicle 2 of the user who made the reservation enters the provider's parking lot 52 at the reserved date and time. At this time, authentication processing is performed. The authentication processing may be performed by the provider terminal 51 as step S130, by the user terminal 21 as step S330, or by both the provider terminal 51 and the user terminal 21.

[0102] For example, when the provider terminal 51 is performing this task, it may use the camera 59 to photograph a vehicle 2 entering the parking lot 52, and from the captured image... Vehicle 2 The system analyzes the vehicle number, make, model, and body color. If these match the vehicle number, make, model, and body color provided in the reservation confirmation notice R22, the authentication can be considered successful. The authentication result is transmitted from the provider terminal 51 to the server device 1 in step S131.

[0103] Alternatively, for example, the reservation confirmation notices R22 and R23 mentioned above may include information such as a reservation code, and the provider terminal 51 may determine that authentication is successful when the user operates the panel 55 of the charger 53 and accurately enters the reservation code.

[0104] As in the example above, when authentication processing is performed on the provider terminal 51, the authentication result is sent from the provider terminal 51 to the server device 1 in step S131.

[0105] One possible method in which the user terminal 21 performs the authentication process is for the user terminal 21 to read a two-dimensional code displayed on the charger 53 and send it to the server device 1. In this case, the server device 1 will determine whether the authentication is successful, and if it is successful, the server device 1 will send a message to the user terminal 21 and the provider terminal 51 indicating that the authentication is successful. In this case, for example, the user terminal 21 performs the two-dimensional code reading process in step S330 and communicates with the server device 1 in step S331 to receive the result of whether the authentication was successful or not.

[0106] Another method involves the provider terminal 51 and the user terminal 21 communicating with each other via wireless communication such as NFC (Near Field Communication) to perform authentication. For example, the reservation confirmation notices R22 and R23 could include each other's authentication codes. Then, the provider terminal 51 and the user terminal 21 would verify the authentication codes with each other via wireless communication to perform authentication.

[0107] In response to the successful authentication process, the server device 1 starts charging management in step S230. That is, it confirms that the user has arrived at the provider's parking lot 52 and that charging is possible.

[0108] Users can start charging by attaching the gun 54 of the charger 53 to the connector 67 of the vehicle 2 in the parking lot 52. If authentication fails, the provider terminal 51 will be connected to the computer 54. Connector part 67 It is also conceivable to control the charger 53 so that it does not supply charging current even when connected. Alternatively, a lockable lid could be attached to the storage compartment of the gun 54 so that it cannot be opened unless authentication is successful.

[0109] During charging, the provider terminal 51 performs charging processing in step S132. For example, it measures the amount of charge. For example, it monitors and stores the value of the wattmeter attached to the charger 53. Furthermore, the user terminal 21 performs charging processing in step S332. For example, it counts the charging time while waiting for the user to complete the charging process. The user terminal 21 may also communicate with the server device 1 sequentially to send status messages indicating that charging is in progress.

[0110] When charging is complete, the user performs a charging termination operation on the user terminal 21. For example, the user terminal 21's screen may have a button or similar function to indicate when charging is complete. When the user inputs "Charging complete" to the user terminal 21, the user terminal 21 sends a completion notification Q32 to the server device 1 in step S333. The provider terminal 51 also determines that charging is complete by confirming that the gun 54 of the charger 53 is disconnected or retracted. In that case, the provider terminal 51 sends a completion notification P32 to the server device 1 in step S133. This completion notification P32 also includes information on the amount of charge.

[0111] When server device 1 receives termination notifications P32 and Q32, in step S231 it confirms that charging using the rented charger 53 has been completed, and the charger 53 It manages rental history information, etc. For example, server device 1 manages user identification information, provider identification information, start and end date and time information for charging, charge amount, etc., as history information.

[0112] Subsequently, the server device 1 performs settlement processing in step S240, and the user terminal 21 performs settlement processing in step S340. For example, the server device 1 determines the charge amount according to the current charge amount and generates settlement data according to the payment method registered for the user. Then it sends a settlement notification R33 based on this to the user terminal 21. The user terminal 21 performs display processing based on the settlement notification R33 and presents the user with the charges for this charge.

[0113] Furthermore, the server device 1 performs settlement processing in step S250, and the provider terminal 51 performs settlement processing in step S140. For example, the server device 1 determines the amount to be refunded to the provider according to the amount of charge used and generates settlement data for deposit into, for example, the provider's bank account. It then sends a settlement notification R34 based on this to the provider terminal 51. The provider terminal 51 performs display processing based on the settlement notification R34, and shows the provider the amount to be transferred for this charge, the date and time of the transfer, etc.

[0114] Afterward, users and providers can submit evaluation information at any time. For example, in step S350, the user terminal 21 transmits the provider's evaluation information Q33 to the server device 1 in response to the user's operation. The evaluation information provided to the provider includes, for example, the condition of parking lot 52, the surrounding environment, and access. route The status of the charger 53, etc., are expected. Furthermore, users may, for example, send provider evaluation information to the server device 1 while charging.

[0115] In step S260, the server device 1 processes the registration or update of evaluation information Q33 transmitted from the user terminal 21. Specifically, in the provider registration database 6, it performs new registration of evaluation information, addition or update of existing evaluation information, etc., for the provider to whom the received evaluation information Q33 pertains.

[0116] In addition, in step S150, the provider terminal 51 transmits user evaluation information R35 to the server device 1 in response to the provider's operation. The evaluation information provided to users is expected to include evaluations of the condition of the parking lot 52 and the handling of the charger 53, as it is provided by the provider after they have returned following the user's departure.

[0117] In step S261, the server device 1 processes the registration or update of evaluation information R35 transmitted from the provider terminal 51. Specifically, in the user registration database 7, it performs new registration of evaluation information, addition or update of existing evaluation information, etc., for the users to whom the received evaluation information R35 pertains.

[0118] Such provider and user evaluation information may then be presented to users when they select a provider, or the way the information is displayed when selecting a provider may differ depending on their usage and evaluation.

[0119] <Effects of the Embodiment> According to the above embodiments, the following effects can be obtained. The server device 1 of this embodiment provides a charger 53 installed in a parking lot 52 for personal use. One or more people Information about the provider, and requests to use the charger 53 installed in parking lot 52 which is used by others. One or more people The registration process involves registering information about the user (see Figure 8). Furthermore, in response to a usage request Q21 sent from a certain user terminal 21, the server device 1 will find a provider that matches the content of that usage request Q21. Regarding the one or more registered providersThe system extracts information from the data, displays the extracted provider information on the user terminal 21, and performs a reservation setting process to set up the reservation according to the reservation decision information from the user terminal 21 (see Figure 9). Furthermore, the server device 1 processes the payment for the user charging the vehicle 2 using the provider's charger 53 based on the set reservation (see Figure 12). When server device 1 performs the above-described processes, the charger rental service is executed, enabling ordinary homes to be used as charging spots and alleviating the shortage of charging spots for electric vehicles. In addition, providers can easily implement a business of allowing others to use charger 53. Thus, the system aligns the interests of users and providers. In particular, server device 1 receives information provided by the provider, for example, Charger 53 Availability dates and times, and the user Charger 53 By matching users with desired locations and times, the risk of inconvenience for service providers can be eliminated.

[0120] Furthermore, when the server device 1 prompts the user terminal 21 to display information about providers matching the usage request Q21, it does so in a manner that does not identify the provider's home address (see Figures 9, 10, and 11). By preventing users from identifying the provider's home address when selecting a provider, information about residences where the provider is absent during the relevant time period can be avoided. This ensures the provider's security.

[0121] Furthermore, the server device 1, upon receiving evaluation information about the user from the provider terminal 51, will provide information about the user. Registered The system performs the following steps: updating the evaluation information (step S261 in Figure 12) and, when displaying information about providers matching the usage request Q21 on the user terminal 21, the display method is adjusted according to the user's evaluation information (steps S222 and S223 in Figure 9). For example, while the display is normally as shown in Figure 10, the display is changed according to the rating, such as showing a display like Figure 11 for users with high ratings. This allows users to view more detailed information and select providers as their rating increases. For example, narrowing down the area frame 72 makes it easier to select a desired location. Furthermore, changing the content displayed based on the rating can also encourage improved user etiquette. Furthermore, depending on the evaluation information, for example, in addition to the size of the area frame 72, differences may also be made in the presence or absence of images, and the level of detail of the information on the charger 53.

[0122] Furthermore, server device 1 receives from provider terminal 51 The provider provided charger 53 Upon receiving provision information P21, which includes the date and time of availability, the system executes a process (step S220 in Figure 9) to search for the provider of the received provision information P21 in response to the usage request. When a provider is able to lend out a charger 53, they send provision information P21, which includes date and time information indicating the time period during which it can be lent out (from the start date and time of availability to the end date and time of availability), from the provider terminal 51 to the server device 1. This makes the charger available for search when a user makes a usage request. In other words, the provider only needs to specify the date and time they want to provide the charger, which requires little effort from them. This is expected to encourage more providers to offer charging spots.

[0123] Furthermore, in response to receiving evaluation information about the provider from the user terminal 21, the server device 1 will provide the provider information. Registered The process of updating the evaluation information (step S260 in Figure 12) and the presentation of information about the provider matching the usage request Q21 on the user terminal 21, the provider's evaluation information This information will also be presented along with the information of the aforementioned provider. The process to achieve this (step S223 in Figure 9) is executed. For example, by displaying the provider information 71, evaluation information for each provider can be displayed to help users choose a provider. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0124] 1. System management server device (server device) 1a Registration Processing Unit 1b Reservation setting processing unit 1c Charging / Payment Management Department 2 vehicles 3. Residence 21 User terminals 30 Information Processing Devices 51 Provider terminal 52 Parking 53 Charger 54 Gun 55 panels 61 Control device 68 Communications Department 70 Map Images 71 Provider information 72 Area Slots

Claims

1. One or more processors, A storage medium storing a program executed by one or more processors, The program includes one or more instructions, The one or more instructions are provided to the one or more processors: A registration process that registers information about one or more providers who provide chargers installed in their own parking spaces, and information about one or more users who request to use chargers installed in parking spaces used by others. A reservation setting process is performed in which, in response to a usage request sent from a user terminal, a provider matching the usage request is extracted from the registration information, information about the extracted provider is displayed on the user terminal along with an area display on a map image in a state where the provider's home cannot be identified, and a reservation is set based on the information from the user terminal. The settlement process for when a user charges their vehicle using the provider's charger based on a set reservation, The process of updating the registered evaluation information for the user in response to receiving evaluation information about the user from the provider's terminal, Make it run, When the reservation setting process displays information about providers matching the usage request on the user terminal, the process is executed such that, according to the user's evaluation information, the range displayed in the area display becomes narrower the higher the evaluation is. Server device.

2. The one or more instructions are: When the reservation setting process causes the user terminal to display information about a provider matching the usage request, one or more processors are instructed to perform a process so that the display of an image of the provider's parking lot or charger differs depending on the user's evaluation information. The server device according to claim 1.

3. The aforementioned one or more instructions By receiving provision information, including the date and time of availability, from the provider terminal, the one or more processors are instructed to perform a process that identifies the provider associated with the received provision information as a search target for the aforementioned usage request. The server device according to claim 1 or claim 2.

4. The aforementioned one or more instructions The process of updating the registered evaluation information for the provider in response to receiving evaluation information for the provider from the user terminal, When displaying information about a provider that matches the aforementioned usage request on the user terminal, the process of including the provider's evaluation information in the displayed content is as follows: To be executed by the aforementioned one or more processors The server device according to claim 1 or claim 2.

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