Roll call system and roll call method

Abstract

This solution addresses the inherent problems in automated roll call systems and contributes to improving operations in the transportation industry. [Solution] The roll call system comprises an information processing device and a business operator system including a driver terminal, and a roll call device having measuring equipment for alcohol concentration, etc. The information processing device comprises a generation means for generating roll call information and a first transmission means for transmitting roll call information to the driver terminal. The driver terminal comprises a first receiving means for receiving the roll call information and a first output means for outputting the roll call information to the roll call device. The roll call device comprises a first acquisition means for acquiring roll call information and a roll call processing means for performing roll call processing, including measurement by measuring equipment, based on the roll call information acquired by the first acquisition means.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a calling system and a calling method used for calling points of carriers and the like.

Background Art

[0002] In the transportation industry, calling drivers is mandatory for safety management purposes. The types of calls include pre-operation calls carried out before work, post-operation calls carried out after work, and intermediate calls carried out during operations involving accommodation (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

[0003] In recent years, instead of the operation manager making the call, automatic calls that are automatically made by the system are also being introduced. Currently, automatic calls are made using terminals prepared for each transportation company. Therefore, for example, when using an automatic call during an overnight operation, it is necessary to prepare measuring devices such as alcohol detectors, thermometers, and blood pressure monitors in the vehicle or at the accommodation, etc., and it is difficult to introduce.

[0004] Also, in an automatic call, communication between the calling device and the server is required, but there may be cases where the call cannot be made due to a communication failure or server downtime. For example, if such a situation occurs during a pre-operation call or an intermediate call, the driver cannot perform the scheduled work, which will cause significant problems. The above is only an example, and there are various other areas for improvement regarding automatic calls.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] One of the objectives of this invention is to solve the problems inherent in automated roll call systems and to contribute to improving operations in the transportation industry. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The roll call system according to the present invention comprises a business operator system of a transportation business operator and a roll call device having at least one measuring device for alcohol concentration, body temperature, and blood pressure. The business operator system includes an information processing device that can access a database storing information about drivers belonging to the transportation business operator and a driver terminal that can communicate with the information processing device.

[0008] According to one embodiment, The driver terminal has a display and an input device for detecting operations on the display, and is held by a driver belonging to the transportation company. The aforementioned information processing device is In response to a request from the driver's terminal, The system comprises a generation means for generating roll call information used for driver roll call based on information stored in the database, and a first transmission means for transmitting the roll call information to the driver terminal. The driver terminal also comprises A request means that, in response to the detection of a predetermined operation by the driver by the input device, requests the roll call information from the information processing device, The system includes a first receiving means for receiving the roll call information transmitted by the first transmitting means, and a first output means for outputting the roll call information received by the first receiving means to the roll call device. Furthermore, the roll call device includes a first acquiring means for acquiring the roll call information output by the first output means, and a roll call processing means for performing roll call processing, including measurement by the measuring device, based on the roll call information acquired by the first acquiring means.

[0009] In another embodiment, the information processing device includes a generation means for generating roll call information used for driver roll call based on information stored in the database, and a first transmission means for transmitting the roll call information to the roll call device in response to a request from the roll call device. The driver terminal also includes an output means for outputting access information to the information processing device to the roll call device. Furthermore, the roll call device includes an acquisition means for acquiring the access information output by the output means, a request means for requesting roll call information from the information processing device based on the access information acquired by the acquisition means, a first receiving means for receiving the roll call information transmitted by the first transmission means in response to a request from the request means, and a roll call processing means for performing roll call processing, including measurement by the measuring device, based on the roll call information received by the second receiving means.

[0010] A roll call method according to one embodiment uses the operator system including the information processing device and the driver terminal, and a roll call system including the roll call equipment, The driver terminal, upon detection of a predetermined operation by the driver by the input device, requests the information processing device to provide information for driver roll call; and in response to the request from the driver terminal, Based on the information stored in the database, the information processing device The aforementioned The process includes the steps of: generating roll call information; the information processing device transmitting the roll call information to the driver terminal; the driver terminal receiving the roll call information; the driver terminal outputting the roll call information to the roll call device; the roll call device acquiring the roll call information; and the roll call device performing a roll call process, including measurement by the measuring device, based on the acquired roll call information.

[0011] According to another embodiment, the roll call method includes the steps of: the driver terminal outputting access information to the information processing device to the roll call device; the roll call device acquiring the access information; the roll call device requesting roll call information to be used for driver roll call from the information processing device based on the access information; the information processing device generating the roll call information based on information stored in the database; the information processing device transmitting the roll call information to the roll call device in response to a request from the roll call device; the roll call device receiving the roll call information; and the roll call device performing roll call processing, including measurement by the measuring device, based on the roll call information. [Effects of the Invention]

[0012] According to the present invention, the problems inherent in automated roll call systems can be solved, and the operation of the transportation industry can be improved. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0013] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the roll call system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing an example of a configuration applicable to a roll call terminal. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a block diagram showing an example of a configuration applicable to a driver's terminal. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a block diagram showing an example of a configuration applicable to an administrator terminal. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a flowchart showing the flow of the automated roll call process according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] Figure 6 shows an example of the screen displayed on the driver's terminal during the automated roll call process. [Figure 7] Figure 7 shows an example of the screen displayed on the roll call terminal's display during the automated roll call process. [Figure 8] Figure 8 shows an example of the information included in roll call information. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of information included in the call result information. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on the display of the driver terminal when the search function of the call terminal is executed. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the flow of the automatic call processing according to the second embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing the flow of the automatic call processing according to the third embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing the flow of the automatic call processing according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing the flow of the automatic call processing according to the fifth embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on the display of the call terminal in the sixth embodiment. MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0014] Some embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings. In each of the embodiments described below, a call system for making calls to drivers belonging to a transportation company and a call method using the system are disclosed. As the transportation company, for example, a trucking company is assumed. However, the call system and call method disclosed in this embodiment can also be used for drivers belonging to a passenger car transportation company.

[0015] [First Embodiment] FIG. 1 is a schematic configuration diagram of a call system CS according to the first embodiment. The call system CS includes a plurality of call terminals 1, a call server 2, and a plurality of carrier systems TS. The plurality of carrier systems TS may be provided for each transportation company, or at least a part of them may be owned by the same transportation company.

[0016] The roll call terminal 1 performs at least part of the automated roll call processing for drivers belonging to each transportation company. The automated roll call processing includes pre-work roll calls, post-work roll calls, and equivalent intermediate roll calls. For example, each of the multiple roll call terminals 1 may be installed at multiple (unspecified) locations. The installation location of each roll call terminal 1 is expected to be a location different from the transportation company's business premises. Specific examples of installation locations for roll call terminals 1 in this case include, but are not limited to, service areas, parking areas, truck stations, convenience stores, ferries, gas stations, and roadside rest areas.

[0017] Each roll call terminal 1 and the roll call server 2 are connected to each other via a communication network such as the Internet. The roll call server 2 may be a cloud server. In this case, part of the automated roll call processing using the roll call terminal 1 may be performed by the roll call server 2 using cloud computing in the form of SaaS (Software as a Service). In this embodiment, each roll call terminal 1 and the roll call server 2 are examples of "roll call equipment".

[0018] Each operator system TS includes multiple driver terminals 3, at least one administrator terminal 4, and an operator server 5. In one example, each operator system TS is independent of the others.

[0019] Each driver terminal 3 is held by the driver. The driver terminal 3 can be, for example, a smartphone, tablet, or smartwatch.

[0020] The administrator terminal 4 is, for example, located at the business office and operated by the operations manager. The administrator terminal 4 can be, for example, a personal computer, a smartphone, or a tablet. In addition to the administrator terminal 4, each business office may also have attendance terminals and roll call terminals for processing driver attendance and roll call procedures at the office.

[0021] The operator server 5 has a database DB that stores information about drivers belonging to the transportation company and the results of roll calls. In this embodiment, at least a portion of the information described as being stored in the database DB may be stored in the administrator terminal 4 or the roll call server 2.

[0022] As shown by the solid arrows in Figure 1, each driver terminal 3 and the operator server 5, and the administrator terminal 4 and the operator server 5 are connected to each other via a communication network such as the Internet. This allows each driver terminal 3 and the administrator terminal 4 to access the database DB.

[0023] As shown by the dashed arrows in Figure 1, each driver terminal 3 and the administrator terminal 4 may be connected to each other via a communication network such as the Internet. In this case, information can be exchanged between each driver terminal 3 and the administrator terminal 4 without going through the operator server 5.

[0024] The operator server 5 may be a cloud server. In this case, some of the processing using the driver terminal 3 and the administrator terminal 4 may be performed by the operator server 5 using cloud computing in the form of SaaS or the like. In this embodiment, the administrator terminal 4 and the operator server 5 are examples of "information processing devices" that can access a database DB.

[0025] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing an example of a configuration applicable to the roll call terminal 1. The roll call terminal 1 includes a controller 10 including a processor and memory, a storage device 11, a display 12, an input device 13, a speaker 14, a long-range communication device 15, a short-range communication device 16, a camera 17, an alcohol detector 18, a thermometer 19, and a blood pressure monitor 20.

[0026] The storage device 11 stores computer programs executed by the controller 10 during automatic roll call processing, as well as various data necessary for automatic roll call processing. The display 12 displays various screens necessary for automatic roll call processing, etc. The input device 13 includes, for example, a keyboard, mouse, and touch panel used for operating the GUI displayed on the display 12 and inputting various information. The speaker 14 emits various sounds.

[0027] The long-range communication device 15 includes a communication unit that communicates via a mobile communication network such as 4G or 5G, and a communication unit that communicates via a wireless LAN such as Wi-Fi (registered trademark). The short-range communication device 16 includes a communication unit that communicates via Bluetooth (registered trademark) and a communication unit that communicates via NFC (Near Field Communication). The camera 17 is positioned to photograph, for example, a driver who is performing automatic roll call processing using the roll call terminal 1.

[0028] The alcohol detector 18, thermometer 19, and blood pressure monitor 20 constitute the "measuring device" in this embodiment. The alcohol detector 18 measures the alcohol concentration in the driver's breath. The thermometer 19 measures the driver's body temperature. For example, an infrared thermometer capable of measuring the driver's body temperature non-contact may be used as the thermometer 19. The blood pressure monitor 20 measures the driver's blood pressure. For example, an automatic blood pressure monitor that allows the driver to measure their blood pressure themselves may be used as the blood pressure monitor 20.

[0029] As an example, the roll call terminal 1 can be configured primarily around a personal computer. In this case, the alcohol detector 18, thermometer 19, and blood pressure monitor 20 can be connected via an interface provided on the personal computer's casing.

[0030] Figure 3 is a block diagram showing an example of a configuration applicable to the driver terminal 3. The driver terminal 3 includes a controller 30 containing a processor and memory, a storage device 31, a display 32, an input device 33, a speaker 34, a long-range communication device 35, a short-range communication device 36, a camera 37, and a GPS (Global Positioning System) receiver 38.

[0031] The storage device 31 stores computer programs (applications) executed by the controller 30 during automatic roll call processing, as well as various data necessary for automatic roll call processing. The display 32 displays various screens necessary for automatic roll call processing, etc. The input device 33 includes, for example, a touch panel that detects operations on the display 32. The speaker 34 emits various sounds.

[0032] The long-range communication device 35 includes a communication unit that communicates via a mobile communication network such as 4G or 5G, and a communication unit that communicates via a wireless LAN such as Wi-Fi (registered trademark). The short-range communication device 36 includes a communication unit that communicates via Bluetooth (registered trademark) and a communication unit that communicates via NFC. The camera 37 is capable of capturing still images or videos of the surroundings. The GPS receiver 38 receives GPS signals indicating the current location of the driver terminal 3.

[0033] Figure 4 is a block diagram showing an example of a configuration applicable to the administrator terminal 4. The administrator terminal 4 includes a controller 40 containing a processor and memory, a storage device 41, a display 42, an input device 43, and a telecommunications device 44.

[0034] The storage device 41 stores computer programs executed by the controller 40 during various operations related to operation management, as well as various data necessary for these operations. The display 42 displays various screens necessary for operations management and other operations. The input device 43 includes a keyboard, mouse, and touch panel used for operating the GUI displayed on the display 42 and for inputting various information. The long-range communication device 35 includes a communication unit that communicates via a mobile communication network such as 4G or 5G, and a communication unit that communicates via a wireless LAN such as WiFi (registered trademark).

[0035] Note that the roll call terminal 1, driver terminal 3, and administrator terminal 4 do not necessarily need to have all the elements exemplified in Figures 2 to 4. Furthermore, the roll call terminal 1, driver terminal 3, and administrator terminal 4 may also have elements other than those exemplified in Figures 2 to 4.

[0036] Drivers of each transportation company must conduct a pre-work check at the start of their shift or the start of their route. If a driver reports to the company premises, the pre-work check will be conducted either in person with the operations manager at the premises or via a check terminal installed at the premises.

[0037] On the other hand, for example, during overnight trips that span multiple working days, it may not be possible to conduct roll calls at the business office. Therefore, drivers can conduct automatic roll calls using roll call terminals 1 installed in various locations.

[0038] Figure 5 is a flowchart showing the flow of the automated roll call process according to this embodiment. Figure 6 is a diagram showing an example of the screen displayed on the display 32 of the driver terminal 3 during the automated roll call process. Figure 7 is a diagram showing an example of the screen displayed on the display 12 of the roll call terminal 1 during the automated roll call process.

[0039] In the flowchart of Figure 5, the processes shown in the left column are performed by the roll call terminal 1, the processes shown in the middle column are performed by the driver terminal 3, and the processes shown in the right column are performed by the operator server 5. However, at least a portion of the processes in the left column may be performed by the roll call server 2, or by the cooperation of roll call terminal 1 and roll call server 2. Also, at least a portion of the processes in the right column may be performed by the administrator terminal 4, or by the cooperation of administrator terminal 4 and operator server 5. Furthermore, at least a portion of the processes in the right column may be performed by roll call server 2, or by the cooperation of roll call server 2, administrator terminal 4, and operator server 5.

[0040] Before starting the automated roll call process, the driver launches the application for automated roll call processing installed on the driver terminal 3. At this time, the driver selection screen shown in Figure 6(a) is displayed on the display 32 of the driver terminal 3. This screen has selection buttons 61 that display the names of multiple drivers belonging to the driver's transportation company.

[0041] When the driver's name is selected by operating the selection button 61, the driver terminal 3 requests roll call information from the operator server 5, as shown in Figure 5 (step S101). This request is made, for example, by sending the identification information of the driver selected by the selection button 61 and a roll call information request command to the operator server 5 via the long-distance communication device 35.

[0042] Furthermore, the names of drivers to be called may be pre-configured in the application on the driver terminal 3. In this case, for example, a button to request roll call information may be displayed instead of a selection screen, and roll call information may be requested from the operator server 5 when the driver operates this button. As yet another example, the application may automatically request roll call information from the operator server 5 at a predetermined time without requiring any operation from the driver.

[0043] When the operator server 5 receives a request from the driver terminal 3 (step S102), it generates roll call information containing various information necessary for the driver's roll call (step S103). Furthermore, the operator server 5 transmits the generated roll call information to the driver terminal 3 (step S104).

[0044] Figure 8 shows an example of the information included in the roll call information. For example, the roll call information includes business operator information, vehicle ID, driver name, scheduled roll call date and time, scheduled roll call location, roll call flag, available departure time, scheduled departure time, remaining rest time, work assignment, contact information, driver's facial image data, and vital data.

[0045] Business operator information is information used to identify the transportation company to which the driver belongs, and may include the name and address of the transportation company. Business operator information may also include at least one of the following (contract-related information): whether or not there is a usage contract for the roll call terminal 1, the expiration date of the contract, and information on when continued use is not possible. For example, information on when continued use is not possible is set when a transportation company has entered into a usage contract for the roll call system CS, but is unable to use it due to non-payment of usage fees, etc. The vehicle ID is the identification information of the vehicle driven by the driver. The driver name is the name of the driver, i.e., the name selected by the selection button 61. The scheduled roll call date and time is the deadline by which the driver should conduct the roll call. The scheduled roll call location is information indicating the location where the driver should conduct the roll call. In one example, the scheduled roll call location may be the identification information of one or more roll call terminals 1 (such as a unique ID for the roll call terminal 1, the name of the facility where it is installed, or the address of the facility) that the operations manager has set in advance using the administrator terminal 4.

[0046] The roll call flag indicates whether the next roll call a driver should perform is a pre-shift roll call or a post-shift roll call. For example, if a driver's status recorded in the database DB is "on rest," the next roll call that driver should perform is a pre-shift roll call. If the status is "on duty," the next roll call that driver should perform is a post-shift roll call.

[0047] The departure time is the earliest time a driver can leave (commute to work) while complying with the rules regarding rest periods. The scheduled departure time is the time set in advance by the driver, for example, when leaving work last time. The remaining rest time represents the remaining time for any additional rest periods that the driver needs to take if they have already taken part of a rest period. The remaining rest time may also represent the remaining time for a normal rest period (e.g., 9 hours).

[0048] The work assignment indicates the tasks that the driver must perform, and in some cases includes information about the loading and unloading locations and information about the cargo. The communication section contains messages from the operations manager to the driver, such as important notices. The facial image data represents the driver's face for identification purposes. The vital data contains information about the driver's normal body temperature and blood pressure.

[0049] When the driver terminal 3 receives roll call information, it stores the roll call information in the storage device 31 (step S105). If other roll call information is already stored in the storage device 31 before receiving the roll call information, the other roll call information is updated with the roll call information received in step S105. This ensures that the latest roll call schedule, contact information, and vital signs are reflected. The roll call information stored in the storage device 31 may be updated at regular intervals without requiring any operation from the driver while the driver terminal 3 is running.

[0050] Next, the driver terminal 3 performs an identity verification process to confirm, using biometric authentication, whether the operator of the driver terminal 3 is the driver selected by the selection button 61 (step S106).

[0051] In the identity verification process, for example, the identity verification screen shown in Figure 6(b) is displayed on the display 32. The identity verification screen displays the driver's name (the driver's name included in the roll call information) selected by the selection button 61. Furthermore, the identity verification screen has an image area 62 on which an image captured by the camera 37 (in-camera) is displayed. The driver terminal 3 performs facial image authentication using the image displayed in the image area 62 and the facial image data included in the roll call information.

[0052] Furthermore, the method of identity verification is not limited to facial image recognition. Other biometric authentication technologies, such as fingerprint recognition or vein recognition, may also be used for identity verification. In this case, the driver terminal 3 should be equipped with a biometric information reader capable of acquiring the operator's biometric information, such as fingerprint or vein information, and the driver's biometric information, such as fingerprint or vein information, should be included in the roll call information.

[0053] If the identity verification process determines that the operator of driver terminal 3 is not the driver selected by the selection button 61, driver terminal 3 will notify the error by displaying a message on the display 32 and outputting an audio message from the speaker 34. After that, the automatic roll call process will end.

[0054] On the other hand, if it is confirmed that the operator of driver terminal 3 is the driver selected by the selection button 61, the automatic roll call process continues. Subsequent processing differs depending on whether the roll call flag included in the roll call information indicates a pre-work roll call or a post-work roll call. Therefore, we will first explain the series of processes performed when the roll call flag indicates a pre-work roll call.

[0055] During pre-work roll call (including intermediate roll call conducted before work), the driver terminal 3 displays the connection screen shown in Figure 6(c) on the display 32. This connection screen includes display fields for the scheduled roll call time, departure time, scheduled departure time, and remaining rest time, which are included in the roll call information, as well as a connection button 63 for starting the connection with the roll call terminal 1.

[0056] Furthermore, if the current time has passed the scheduled roll call time, or if the current time has not reached the departure time or scheduled departure time, some kind of warning may be issued. This warning can be implemented, for example, by changing the color of the display fields for the scheduled roll call time, departure time, or scheduled departure time, by displaying a message on the connection screen, or by outputting an audio message from speaker 34. In addition, along with the warning, the operation of the connection button 63 may be disabled.

[0057] If there are no problems with the relationship between the current time, the scheduled roll call time, the available departure time, and the scheduled departure time, and the driver operates the connection button 63, the driver terminal 3 outputs the roll call information (step S107). Furthermore, the roll call terminal 1 acquires the roll call information output by the driver terminal 3 (step S108).

[0058] The roll call information output from the driver terminal 3 here does not necessarily have to be exactly the same as the roll call information received by the driver terminal 3 in step S105. For example, the roll call information output in step S107 does not have to include facial image data.

[0059] The output in step S107 and the acquisition in step S108 can be achieved in various ways. In one example, the driver terminal 3 displays a two-dimensional code representing the roll call information on the display 32. When the driver holds this two-dimensional code over the camera 17 of the roll call terminal 1, the roll call terminal 1 decodes the two-dimensional code and acquires the roll call information.

[0060] As another example, driver terminal 3 may transmit roll call information via short-range communication device 36, and roll call terminal 1 may receive this roll call information via short-range communication device 16. As yet another example, driver terminal 3 may transmit roll call information via long-range communication device 35, and roll call terminal 1 may receive this roll call information via long-range communication device 15.

[0061] In addition to what is described here, the processes in steps S107 and S108 can be implemented in various ways, such as by transferring roll call information via a communication cable or by using online storage.

[0062] When the output of the roll call information is complete, the driver terminal 3 displays the standby screen shown in Figure 6(d) on the display 32. For example, this standby screen displays a message indicating that a roll call should be conducted on the roll call terminal 1, and also has an end button 64 for the driver to operate when the automatic roll call process by the roll call terminal 1 is complete.

[0063] When the roll call terminal 1 acquires roll call information, it determines whether the driver is eligible to use the roll call terminal 1 (step S109). This determination uses the business information included in the roll call information. For example, the storage device 11 of the roll call terminal 1 stores a list of transportation businesses that have registered to use the roll call terminal 1. If the transportation business indicated by the business information is not registered in the list, the roll call terminal 1 determines that the driver is not eligible to use the roll call terminal 1. As another example, if the business information includes contract-related information such as the existence of the above-mentioned usage contract, the expiration date, and information on whether continued use is not possible, the eligibility may be determined using this contract-related information. That is, if there is no usage contract, the expiration date has passed, or information on whether continued use is not possible is set, the driver is determined to be unable to use the roll call terminal 1. If it is determined that the driver is unable to use the terminal, the roll call terminal 1 notifies the driver that the roll call terminal 1 is unavailable, for example, by displaying an error message on the display 12.

[0064] On the other hand, the roll call terminal 1 determines that a driver can use the roll call terminal 1 if the transportation company indicated in the business information is registered in the list, or if the contract-related information does not meet the usage conditions. At this time, the roll call terminal 1 displays the start screen shown in Figure 7(a) on the display 12. This start screen includes the driver's name and vehicle ID included in the roll call information, as well as a roll call start button 71.

[0065] In step S109, a further determination may be made as to whether the roll call terminal 1 can be used with the roll call location included in the roll call information. That is, if the roll call terminal 1 is not the roll call terminal 1 corresponding to the roll call location, it will be determined that it cannot be used by the driver. In this case, the roll call terminal 1 will not display the start screen shown in Figure 7(a) on the display 12, but will notify the driver that the roll call terminal 1 cannot be used, for example, by displaying an error message on the display 12. As another example, even if the roll call terminal 1 is not the roll call terminal 1 corresponding to the roll call location, the driver may still be able to perform subsequent roll call processing. In this case, the roll call terminal 1 may notify the administrator terminal 4 directly or via the driver terminal 3 that the driver has conducted a roll call using a roll call terminal 1 that is not the roll call location. This notification may be included in the roll call result information described later.

[0066] On the other hand, if the roll call terminal 1 is the roll call terminal 1 corresponding to the scheduled roll call location, it determines that it is available for use by the driver. In this case, the roll call terminal 1 displays the start screen shown in Figure 7(a) on the display 12.

[0067] The scheduled roll call location may be displayed, for example, on the connection screen shown in Figure 6(c). This allows the driver to check the scheduled roll call location for the roll call to be conducted before moving to any of the roll call terminal 1 locations. The decision on whether or not to use the roll call terminal 1 using the scheduled roll call location may be made by the driver terminal 3. For example, the driver terminal 3 may determine that it is available if the location corresponding to the GPS signal received by the GPS receiver 38 matches the scheduled roll call location (facility name or address) at an appropriate timing, such as when the connection button 63 is operated. As another example, the driver terminal 3 may obtain the identification ID of the roll call terminal 1 by communication with the roll call terminal 1 or by reading a two-dimensional code, and determine that it is available if this identification ID corresponds to the scheduled roll call location.

[0068] After step S109, the start screen is displayed on the display 12 of the roll call terminal 1. When the driver operates the start button 71, the roll call terminal 1 performs the measurement process (step S110). In the measurement process for pre-work roll call, the roll call terminal 1 displays the measurement screen shown in Figure 7(b). This measurement screen includes a message display and guidance image indicating that alcohol concentration measurement, body temperature measurement, and blood pressure measurement should be performed, as well as a display field 72a for the alcohol concentration measurement result, a display field 72b for the body temperature measurement result, and a display field 72c for the blood pressure measurement result.

[0069] With this measurement screen displayed, the driver measures the alcohol concentration in their breath using the alcohol detector 18, measures their body temperature using the thermometer 19, and measures their blood pressure (systolic / diastolic) using the blood pressure monitor 20. These measurement results are displayed in the display sections 72a, 72b, and 72c, respectively.

[0070] The roll call terminal 1 may issue a warning to the driver by displaying a message on the display 12 or outputting an audio message through the speaker 14 if it detects an abnormality in any of the following: alcohol concentration, body temperature, or blood pressure. In addition to warning the driver, the roll call terminal 1 may also issue a warning to the operations manager. For example, a warning to the operations manager can be issued by sending warning information, including the driver's name, from the roll call terminal 1 to the manager terminal 4 of the transportation company to which the driver belongs, via a network such as the Internet. Furthermore, if the roll call terminal 1 and the driver terminal 3 can communicate via short-range communication devices 16, 36 or long-range communication devices 15, 35, warning information may be sent from the roll call terminal 1 to the manager terminal 4 via the driver terminal 3. In one example, if there is an abnormality in at least the alcohol concentration, the automatic roll call process is stopped.

[0071] Regarding alcohol concentration, for example, if the alcohol concentration measured by the alcohol detector 18 exceeds a predetermined standard value, it is judged as abnormal. Regarding body temperature, for example, if the body temperature measured by the thermometer 19 deviates by more than a predetermined threshold compared to the driver's normal body temperature included in the vital data of the roll call information, it is judged as abnormal. Regarding blood pressure (systolic blood pressure / diastolic blood pressure), for example, if the blood pressure measured by the blood pressure monitor 20 deviates by more than a predetermined threshold compared to the driver's normal blood pressure included in the vital data of the roll call information, it is judged as abnormal.

[0072] The determination of at least one abnormality in alcohol concentration, body temperature, and blood pressure may be performed by the driver terminal 3 after it has acquired the measurement input information described later.

[0073] Furthermore, when measuring with the alcohol detector 18, it is preferable to capture a still image or video of the driver using the alcohol detector 18 with the camera 17 of the roll call terminal 1. Alternatively, this capture may be performed with the camera 37 of the driver terminal 3.

[0074] After the measurement process, the roll call terminal 1 performs the input reception process from the driver (step S111). In the input reception process for pre-work roll call, the roll call terminal 1 displays, for example, the input screen shown in Figure 7(c) on the display 12. The input screen has a selection button 73a for inputting whether or not there is an illness, a selection button 73b for inputting whether or not there is fatigue, a selection button 73c for inputting whether or not there is sleep deprivation, an input field 73d for inputting sleep time, a selection button 73e for inputting whether or not there is an abnormality in the daily inspection of the vehicle, and a complete button 74.

[0075] After the driver has made their selection using the selection buttons 73a, 73b, 73c, and 73e and entered their sleep time into the input field 73d, they operate the complete button 74. If "abnormality present" is selected using any of the selection buttons 73a, 73b, 73c, or 73e, or if the sleep time entered in the input field 73d is shorter than the prescribed time, the roll call terminal 1 may issue a warning to the operations manager. For example, a warning to the operations manager can be issued by sending warning information, including the driver's name, from the roll call terminal 1 to the administrator terminal 4 of the transportation company to which the driver belongs, via a network such as the Internet. Alternatively, if the roll call terminal 1 and the driver terminal 3 can communicate using short-range communication devices 16, 36 or long-range communication devices 15, 35, warning information may be sent from the roll call terminal 1 to the administrator terminal 4 via the driver terminal 3. In one example, if "abnormality present" for daily inspection is selected using the selection button 73e, the automatic roll call process is canceled.

[0076] After the input acceptance processing, the roll call terminal 1 notifies the driver of any matters to be communicated by the operations manager (step S112). This notification is performed, for example, by displaying the communication screen shown in Figure 7(d) on the display 12. The communication screen has a display field 75 for displaying matters to be communicated that are included in the roll call information, and a roll call end button 76. In addition to being displayed in the display field 75, the matters to be communicated may also be output as audio through the speaker 14.

[0077] After the driver confirms the information displayed in the display area 75, they operate the end-of-roll-call button 76. At this time, the roll-call terminal 1 outputs measurement input information including the measurement results in step S110 and the input results in step S111 (step S113). Furthermore, the driver terminal 3 acquires the measurement input information output by the roll-call terminal 1 (step S115).

[0078] The measurement input information includes the alcohol concentration, body temperature, and blood pressure measured in the measurement process in step S110, as well as information indicating the presence or absence of disease, fatigue, sleep deprivation, sleep duration, and abnormalities in the daily checkup, which were entered (selected) in step S111. If step S110 determines whether the alcohol concentration, body temperature, and blood pressure are normal or abnormal, the measurement input information may further include information indicating the result of that determination.

[0079] As described above, if still images or videos of the driver are captured by the camera 17 of the roll call terminal 1 during measurement by the alcohol detector 18, the roll call result information may further include these still images or videos.

[0080] The output in step S113 and the acquisition in step S114 can be achieved in various ways. In one example, the roll call terminal 1 displays a two-dimensional code representing the measurement input information on the display 12. When the driver holds this two-dimensional code over the camera 37 of the driver terminal 3, the driver terminal 3 decodes the two-dimensional code and acquires the measurement input information.

[0081] As another example, the roll call terminal 1 may transmit measurement input information via a short-range communication device 16, and the driver terminal 3 may receive this measurement input information via a short-range communication device 36. As yet another example, the roll call terminal 1 may transmit measurement input information via a long-range communication device 15, and the driver terminal 3 may receive this measurement input information via a long-range communication device 35.

[0082] In addition to what is described here, the processes in steps S113 and S114 can be implemented in various ways, such as by transferring measurement input information via a communication cable or by using online storage.

[0083] When the driver terminal 3 acquires measurement input information in step S114, it generates roll call result information including the measurement input information (step S115). Furthermore, the driver terminal 3 transmits the roll call result information to the operator server 5 (step S116).

[0084] Figure 9 shows an example of the information included in the roll call results information. For example, the roll call results information includes the date and time of the roll call, the method of roll call, the location of the roll call, the vehicle ID, the driver's name, the alcohol concentration measurement result, the body temperature measurement result, the blood pressure measurement result, self-reported information, and the results of daily inspections.

[0085] The roll call date and time is, for example, the date and time when the roll call completion button 76 was operated on the contact screen in Figure 7(d). However, the roll call date and time may be a date and time at another point in the automatic roll call process. The roll call method is information indicating whether the roll call was conducted in person, by telephone, or automatically, but here information indicating automatic roll call is used.

[0086] The roll call location is information indicating the location where the driver conducted the roll call. For example, the roll call location may be the identification information of the roll call terminal 1 used for the roll call (such as the unique ID of the roll call terminal 1, the name of the facility where it is installed, or the address of the facility). In one example, such roll call location information is stored in the storage device 11 of the roll call terminal 1, output along with the measurement input information in step S113, and acquired by the driver terminal 3 in step S114. In another example, the roll call location may be location information identified by the GPS signal received by the GPS receiver 38 of the driver terminal 3 at an appropriate timing, such as when step S115 is executed.

[0087] The vehicle ID and driver name in the roll call result information are those included in the roll call information. The alcohol concentration measurement results, body temperature measurement results, and blood pressure measurement results are the alcohol concentration, body temperature, and blood pressure included in the measurement input information obtained from the roll call terminal 1 in step S114. The alcohol concentration measurement results, body temperature measurement results, and blood pressure measurement results may further include information indicating whether the alcohol concentration, body temperature, and blood pressure are normal or abnormal, respectively.

[0088] Self-reported information is information indicating the presence or absence of illness, fatigue, sleep deprivation, and sleep duration, which is included in the measurement input information obtained from roll call terminal 1 in step S114. Daily inspection results are information indicating the presence or absence of abnormalities in the daily inspection included in the said standard input information.

[0089] If still images or videos of the driver are captured by the camera 17 of the roll call terminal 1 or the camera 37 of the driver terminal 3 during measurement by the alcohol detector 18, the roll call result information may include these still images or videos.

[0090] When the operator server 5 receives the roll call result information from the driver terminal 3 (step S117), it saves the roll call result information to the database DB (step S118). This completes the series of automatic roll call processes. Alternatively, the roll call result information may be transmitted from the driver terminal 3 or the roll call terminal 1 to the roll call server 2, and the roll call result information may be saved to the database of the roll call server 2.

[0091] The driver terminal 3 may also transmit the roll call result information to the administrator terminal 4. In this case, the administrator terminal 4 may save the roll call result information to the storage device 41 and also access the database DB to save the roll call result information.

[0092] In one example, the driver terminal 3 executes the process in step S116 immediately after generating the roll call result information in step S115. However, the driver terminal 3 does not necessarily have to execute the process in step S116 immediately after generating the roll call result information in step S115. For example, the driver terminal 3 may execute the process in step S116 when it connects to WiFi®. Also, if communication between the driver terminal 3 and the operator server 5 or administrator terminal 4 is unstable, the driver terminal 3 may execute the process in step S116 after communication has been restored to a stable state.

[0093] Post-work roll call (including intermediate roll call conducted after work) basically proceeds according to the flowchart in Figure 5. However, if the roll call flag indicates a post-work roll call after the identity verification process in step S106, the driver terminal 3 displays the standby screen shown in Figure 6(e) on the display 32. This standby screen has a message indicating that a roll call should be conducted on the roll call terminal 1, as well as a connection button 65.

[0094] When the driver operates the connection button 65, the driver terminal 3 outputs roll call information (step S107), and the roll call terminal 1 acquires the roll call information (step S108). Furthermore, the roll call terminal 1 determines whether the driver is allowed to use the roll call terminal 1 (step S109). These processes are the same as those for pre-work roll call.

[0095] In the post-work roll call measurement process (step S110), the roll call terminal 1 displays the measurement screen shown in Figure 7(e) on the display 12. This measurement screen includes a message and guidance image indicating that alcohol concentration measurement should be performed, as well as a display field 77 for the alcohol concentration measurement result. When this measurement screen is displayed, and the driver measures the alcohol concentration of their breath using the alcohol detector 18, the measurement result is displayed in the display field 77.

[0096] In the subsequent input acceptance process (step S111), the roll call terminal 1 displays, for example, the input screen shown in Figure 7(f) on the display 12. This input screen has an input field 78 for reporting items to the operations manager and a completion button 79. The driver can input the reporting items into the input field 78 by operating the input device 13.

[0097] After the driver has finished entering information into input field 78, they operate the complete button 79. At this time, the roll call terminal 1 displays the communication screen shown in Figure 7(d) on the display 12, similar to the pre-work roll call, and notifies the driver of any matters to be communicated by the operations manager (step S112). When the roll call end button 76 is operated, the roll call terminal 1 outputs the measurement input information (step S113). In the post-work roll call, the measurement input information output from the roll call terminal 1 does not include body temperature measurement results, blood pressure measurement results, self-reported information, or daily inspection results. On the other hand, this measurement input information includes the report items entered in input field 78 on the input screen shown in Figure 7(f). In addition, body temperature and blood pressure may also be measured during the post-work roll call, and self-reported information and daily inspection results may be entered using a screen similar to that shown in Figure 7(c). In this case, the measurement input information output from the roll call terminal 1 during the post-work roll call may include body temperature measurement results, blood pressure measurement results, self-reported information, and daily inspection results.

[0098] In a post-shift roll call, the driver terminal 3, upon receiving measurement input information from the roll call terminal 1, displays, for example, the completion screen shown in Figure 6(f) on the display 32. This completion screen includes fields for displaying the scheduled roll call time, the time the driver can depart on the next workday, and the remaining rest period to be taken before departure (reporting to work) on the next workday, as well as an input field 66 for the scheduled departure time on the next workday and a completion button 67.

[0099] The driver can enter the planned departure time in the input field 66. If the planned departure time entered by the driver is earlier than the available departure time, a warning may be issued by changing the display color of the input field 66, displaying a message, or by outputting an audio message from the speaker 34.

[0100] When an appropriate scheduled departure time is entered in the input field 66 and the end button 67 is pressed, the driver terminal 3 generates roll call result information including the measurement input information obtained from the roll call terminal 1 and the scheduled departure time entered in the input field 66 (step S115), and sends it to the operator server 5 (step S116). When the operator server 5 receives the roll call result information (step S117), it saves the roll call result information in the database DB (step S118).

[0101] The operations manager can access the database DB via the administrator terminal 4 at appropriate times to view the roll call results. Furthermore, the operations manager can set each driver's work schedule in the database DB via the administrator terminal 4. This work schedule may include the scheduled date and time of the roll call, work assignments, and contact information to be added to the roll call information for the next roll call.

[0102] The driver terminal 3 may be equipped with a function to search for the location of the roll call terminal 1 that can be used for pre-work roll calls and post-work roll calls. Figure 10 shows an example of the screen displayed on the display 32 of the driver terminal 3 when the search function is executed.

[0103] When the search function is executed, the search method selection screen shown in Figure 10(a) is displayed on the display 32. For example, the search method selection screen includes a search button 68a for searching for the location of the roll call terminal 1 based on an arbitrary destination, and a search button 68b for searching for the location of the roll call terminal 1 based on the current location.

[0104] When the search button 68a is pressed, the destination setting screen is displayed on the display 32. The driver can set any destination through this setting screen. This setting may be done by entering a specific facility name or address, or by selecting a specific destination from the map.

[0105] Once the destination setting is complete, a search results screen, such as the one shown in Figure 10(b), is displayed on the display 32. The illustrated search results screen includes a map 69 showing the locations of the driver-available roll call terminals 1. The map 69 includes a mark M1 indicating the destination and one or more marks M2 indicating the locations of the driver-available roll call terminals 1.

[0106] The driver's available roll call terminal 1 is, for example, one or more roll call terminals 1 corresponding to the scheduled roll call locations included in the roll call information. In addition to the roll call terminal 1 corresponding to the scheduled roll call locations, the locations of other roll call terminals 1, such as the one closest to the destination or within a predetermined radius area centered on the destination, may be indicated by the mark M2. In this case, the color of the mark M2 of the roll call terminal 1 corresponding to the scheduled roll call location may be different from the color of the mark M2 of the other roll call terminals 1.

[0107] When the search button 68b is pressed on the search method selection screen in Figure 10(a), the same search results screen as in Figure 10(b) is displayed on the display 32. In this case, the mark M1 shown on the map 69 indicates the current location of the driver terminal 3, which is identified by the GPS signal received by the GPS receiver 38. Mark M2 indicates, for example, one or more roll call terminals 1 corresponding to the scheduled roll call location included in the roll call information. In addition, there may be further marks M2 indicating the location of the roll call terminal 1 located closest to the current location or the location of a roll call terminal 1 located within a predetermined radius area centered on the current location.

[0108] When any mark M2 is selected on the search results screen, the facility name and address of the location of the roll call terminal 1 corresponding to that mark M2 may be displayed. Alternatively, the route from the destination or the current location of the driver's terminal 3 to the location of the roll call terminal 1 may be displayed, or route guidance (navigation) using that route may be initiated. Note that a search function similar to that described here may also be available on the administrator terminal 4. This would allow, for example, a dispatch manager to easily identify and set a roll call location suitable for the driver's current location or destination when setting a roll call location on the administrator terminal 4.

[0109] According to this embodiment, when a driver is unable to conduct a roll call at their own company's premises, a roll call can be conducted using a roll call terminal 1 installed at service areas, parking areas, truck stations, convenience stores, ferries, etc. The roll call terminal 1 is not limited to the use of drivers of a specific transportation company, but can be used by drivers of multiple transportation companies. In other words, the roll call terminal 1 functions as a common platform for realizing automated roll calls among multiple transportation companies. As a result, each transportation company can create an environment where automated roll calls can be conducted without having to independently prepare a series of devices for automated roll calls, and can enjoy the benefits of automated roll calls.

[0110] Furthermore, in this embodiment, automatic roll call processing can be performed through local information exchange between the roll call terminal 1 and the driver terminal 3. If a roll call system were constructed in which driver information from each transportation company is aggregated on the roll call server 2, and no input of roll call information from the driver terminal 3 is required, there is a possibility that access from each roll call terminal 1 to the roll call server 2 will be concentrated, potentially causing a server crash. There is also a possibility that communication failures may occur between each roll call terminal 1 and the roll call server 2. In either case, it will be difficult to complete the automatic roll call processing, which will have a significant impact on the drivers' work and attendance management. With the configuration of this embodiment, these situations can be suppressed, and the stability of the automatic roll call processing can be improved. In addition, if multiple manufacturers produce the roll call terminal 1, it is possible to achieve manufacturer-independent roll call implementation by standardizing the interface for information exchange with the driver terminal 3.

[0111] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the information necessary for roll calls and the roll call results are stored in the database DB of each transportation company. In other words, there is no need to aggregate the driver information and roll call results of each transportation company in the roll call server 2, which suppresses database bloat and reduces management costs. In addition to the above, various other desirable effects can be obtained from this embodiment.

[0112] [Second Embodiment] A second embodiment will now be described. This embodiment discloses other configurations applicable to the automated roll call process. Configurations not specifically mentioned in this embodiment can be the same as those in the first embodiment.

[0113] Figure 11 is a flowchart showing the flow of the automated roll call process according to this embodiment. In this flowchart, the processing in steps S201 to S210 is the same as the processing in steps S101 to S110 in the first embodiment.

[0114] In this embodiment, the driver terminal 3 performs the input reception processing of the driver's self-reported information and daily inspection results. That is, after the measurement process (step S210), the roll call terminal 1 outputs measurement information including the measurement results in step S210 (step S211). Furthermore, the driver terminal 3 acquires the measurement information output by the roll call terminal 1 (step S212). For the output in step S211 and the acquisition in step S212, for example, the various methods described above for steps S113 and S114 in the first embodiment can be applied.

[0115] The measurement information during the pre-work roll call includes the alcohol concentration, body temperature, and blood pressure measured in the measurement process of step S210. Similarly, the measurement information during the post-work roll call includes the alcohol concentration measured in the measurement process of step S210. If step S210 determines whether the alcohol concentration, body temperature, and blood pressure are normal or abnormal, the measurement information may further include information indicating the determination result.

[0116] After acquiring the measurement information, the driver terminal 3 performs the input acceptance process in the same manner as in step S111 (step S213). In the input acceptance process for pre-work roll call, the roll call terminal 1 displays an input screen on the display 32 that has selection buttons for inputting (selecting) the presence or absence of illness, fatigue, sleep deprivation, and inspection abnormalities, as well as an input field for inputting sleep time, as shown in Figure 7(c), for example. On the other hand, in the input acceptance process for post-work roll call, the roll call terminal 1 displays an input screen on the display 32 that has an input field for reporting items to the operations manager, as shown in Figure 7(f), for example.

[0117] After step S213, the driver terminal 3 notifies the dispatch manager of any matters to be communicated, similar to step S112 (step S214). Specifically, in both the pre-shift and post-shift roll call, the roll call terminal 1 displays a communication screen on the display 32 that has a display field for displaying matters to be communicated included in the roll call information, similar to the one shown in Figure 7(d).

[0118] After step S214, the driver terminal 3 generates roll call result information in the same manner as in step S115 (step S215) and sends it to the operator server 5 in the same manner as in step S216 (step S216). Furthermore, when the operator server 5 receives the roll call result information from the driver terminal 3 (step S217), it saves the roll call result information to the database DB (step S218). This completes the series of automated roll call processes.

[0119] In this embodiment, when the driver terminal 3 processes notifications of information from the operations manager, it is not necessary to include the information from the operations manager in the roll call information output by the driver terminal 3 to the roll call terminal 1 in step S207. Also, when the driver terminal 3 processes input of self-reported information and daily inspection results, it is not necessary to include the self-reported results and daily inspection results in the information output by the roll call terminal 1 to the driver terminal 3 in step S211. This reduces the amount of data exchanged between the roll call terminal 1 and the driver terminal 3.

[0120] [Third Embodiment] A third embodiment will now be described. This embodiment discloses yet another configuration applicable to the automated roll call process. Configurations not specifically mentioned in this embodiment can be the same as those in the embodiments described above.

[0121] Figure 12 is a flowchart showing the flow of the automated roll call process according to this embodiment. In this flowchart, the processes in steps S301 to S305 are the same as the processes in steps S101 to S105 in the first embodiment.

[0122] In this embodiment, the roll call terminal 1 performs the identity verification process. That is, when the roll call information is received from the operator server 5, the driver terminal 3 outputs the roll call information in the same way as in step S306 without going through the identity verification process (step S306), and the roll call terminal 1 acquires the roll call information in the same way as in step S108 (step S307). In this embodiment, the roll call information includes the driver's facial image data.

[0123] After step S307, the roll call terminal 1 performs an identity verification process (step S308). For example, in this identity verification process, an identity verification screen having an image area where an image captured by the camera 17 is displayed is shown on the display 12, similar to Figure 6(b). The roll call terminal 1 performs facial image authentication using the image displayed in the image area and the facial image data included in the roll call information.

[0124] Furthermore, the method of identity verification is not limited to facial image recognition. Other biometric authentication technologies, such as fingerprint recognition or vein recognition, may also be used for identity verification. In this case, the roll call terminal 1 should be equipped with a biometric information reader capable of acquiring biometric information such as the operator's fingerprint or vein information, and the roll call information should include the driver's fingerprint or vein information.

[0125] If the identity verification process determines that the operator of the roll call terminal 1 is not the driver, the roll call terminal 1 will notify the error by displaying a message on the display 12 and outputting an audio message from the speaker 14. After that, the automatic roll call process will end.

[0126] On the other hand, if it is confirmed that the operator of the roll call terminal 1 is the driver himself, the roll call terminal 1 executes the processes in steps S309 to S312. These processes are the same as the processes in steps S109 to S112 in the first embodiment.

[0127] Next, the roll call terminal 1 generates roll call result information (step S313). The roll call result information generated here is the same as the roll call result information generated by the driver terminal 3 in step S115 of the first embodiment.

[0128] Furthermore, the roll call terminal 1 outputs the roll call result information (step S314), and the driver terminal 3 acquires the roll call result information (step S315). For the output in step S314 and the acquisition in step S315, various methods described above for steps S113 and S114 in the first embodiment can be applied. The processing in the subsequent steps S316 to S318 is the same as the processing in steps S116 to S118 in the first embodiment.

[0129] In this embodiment, the driver terminal 3 is primarily dedicated to relaying information for roll call and roll call results. This makes it possible to reduce the processing load on the driver terminal 3.

[0130] [Fourth Embodiment] A fourth embodiment will now be described. This embodiment discloses yet another configuration applicable to the automated roll call process. Configurations not specifically mentioned in this embodiment can be the same as those in the embodiments described above.

[0131] Figure 13 is a flowchart showing the flow of the automated roll call process according to this embodiment. In this flowchart, the processes in steps S401 to S413 are the same as the processes in steps S301 to S313 in the third embodiment.

[0132] In this embodiment, the roll call terminal 1 directly transmits the roll call result information to the operator server 5 (step S414). The operator server 5 receives the roll call result information from the roll call terminal 1 (step S415) and stores it in the database DB (step S416).

[0133] The transmission and reception of roll call result information in steps S414 and S415 is performed, for example, using long-distance communication devices 15 and 35. In one example, the storage device 11 of the roll call terminal 1 has a list pre-stored in which the identification information of each transportation company (company name, etc.) and the address of the company server 5 are associated. In step S407, the roll call terminal 1 identifies the company server 5 to which the roll call result information should be sent (the company server 5 of the transportation company to which the driver subject to automatic roll call processing belongs) from the above list based on the company information contained in the roll call information obtained from the driver terminal 3, and sends the roll call result information to the identified address.

[0134] As another example, in step S406, the driver terminal 3 outputs the roll call information, to which the driver belongs, along with the address (access information) of the operator server 5 of the transportation company to which the driver belongs. The roll call terminal 1 then sends the roll call result information to that address.

[0135] As in this embodiment, when roll call result information is transmitted directly to the operator server 5, the load on the driver terminal 3 can be further reduced. In addition, since drivers do not need to perform operations to obtain roll call result information from the roll call terminal 1 and to transmit roll call result information to the operator server 5, the automated roll call process can be expected to be streamlined.

[0136] The destination for the roll call result information from roll call terminal 1 may also be administrator terminal 4. In this case as well, the address to which the roll call result information will be sent can be provided to roll call terminal 1 by registering the address of administrator terminal 4 in the list mentioned above or by adding the address of administrator terminal 4 to the roll call information.

[0137] [Fifth Embodiment] A fifth embodiment will now be described. This embodiment discloses yet another configuration applicable to the automated roll call process. Configurations not specifically mentioned in this embodiment can be the same as those in the embodiments described above.

[0138] Figure 14 is a flowchart showing the flow of the automated roll call process according to this embodiment. In this embodiment, first the driver terminal 3 outputs driver information (step S501), and the roll call terminal 1 acquires the driver information (step S502). The driver information here includes, for example, the driver's identification information such as the driver's name, and the address (access information) of the operator server 5 of the transportation company to which the driver belongs. For the output in step S501 and the acquisition in step S502, for example, the various methods described above for steps S107 and S108 in the first embodiment can be applied.

[0139] Upon obtaining driver information, the roll call terminal 1 requests roll call information from the operator server 5, which is indicated by the address included in the driver information (step S503). This request is made, for example, by sending the driver's identification information included in the driver information and a command requesting roll call information to the operator server 5 via the long-distance communication device 15.

[0140] When the operator server 5 receives a request from the roll call terminal 1 (step S504), it generates roll call information including various information necessary for the roll call of the driver (step S505) and transmits it to the roll call terminal 1 (step S506).

[0141] The roll call terminal 1 receives roll call information from the operator server 5, for example, via a long-distance communication device 15 (step S507). Subsequently, the roll call terminal 1 executes the processes in steps S508 to S514 using the roll call information. The operator server 5 also executes the processes in steps 515 and S516. These processes in steps S508 to S516 are the same as the processes in steps S408 to S416 in the fourth embodiment.

[0142] As in this embodiment, when roll call information is transmitted from the operator server 5 to the roll call terminal 1, the load on the driver terminal 3 is further reduced. In addition, even when communication between the driver terminal 3 and the operator server 5 is impossible or unstable, the automatic roll call process can be performed.

[0143] [Sixth Embodiment] A sixth embodiment will now be described. In each of the embodiments described above, examples were shown in which roll call information is provided from the operator server 5 to the roll call terminal 1 via the driver terminal 3, or directly from the operator server 5 to the roll call terminal 1. As another example, roll call information for each driver may be stored in the database of the roll call server 2, and this roll call information may be provided from the roll call server 2 to the roll call terminal 1.

[0144] Furthermore, as a method for providing roll call information to the roll call terminal 1, a first route provided from the roll call server 2 to the roll call terminal 1 and a second route provided from the driver terminal 3 or the operator server 5, as in the embodiments described above, may coexist. Below, an example of a roll call system CS equipped with such two routes will be described.

[0145] Figure 15 shows an example of a screen displayed on the display 12 of the roll call terminal 1 in this embodiment. Before the automatic roll call process starts, the roll call terminal 1 displays the selection screen shown in Figure 15(a) on the display 12. This selection screen has a first button 91 for inputting roll call information to the roll call terminal 1 via the first route described above, and a second button 92 for inputting roll call information to the roll call terminal 1 via the second route described above.

[0146] When the first button 91 is operated, roll call information is provided to the roll call terminal 1 from the driver terminal 3 or the operator server 5 in the same manner as in each of the embodiments described above. That is, processes corresponding to steps S107, S108 of the first embodiment, steps S207, S208 of the second embodiment, steps S306, S307 of the third embodiment, steps S406, S407 of the fourth embodiment, or steps S501 to S507 of the fifth embodiment are executed. The subsequent roll call process also proceeds in the same manner as in the first to fifth embodiments, for example.

[0147] On the other hand, when the second button 92 is pressed, an input screen, such as the one shown in Figure 15(b), is displayed on the display 12. This input screen has an input field 93 for entering driver identification information and a complete button 94.

[0148] Drivers can input their identification information into the input field 93 using, for example, the input device 13 of the roll call terminal 1. Alternatively, the driver's identification information may be input by displaying a one-dimensional or two-dimensional code of their identification information on the display 32 of the driver terminal 3 and having the camera 17 of the roll call terminal 1 read it. Such one-dimensional or two-dimensional codes may also be printed on a medium such as paper or a card.

[0149] When the completion button 94 is pressed with the identification information entered in the input field 93, the roll call terminal 1 sends the identification information to the roll call server 2 and requests the roll call information for the driver indicated by the identification information. At this time, the roll call server 2 identifies the roll call information corresponding to the identification information from the database and sends the identified roll call information to the roll call terminal 1. In this way, the roll call processing after the roll call terminal 1 receives the roll call information from the roll call server 2 proceeds in the same flow as, for example, from step S109 in the first embodiment, from step S209 in the second embodiment, from step S308 in the third embodiment, from step S408 in the fourth embodiment, or from step S508 in the fifth embodiment. Note that the identification information used when obtaining roll call information from the roll call server 2 is not limited to the driver's identification information. As another example, the identification information of the business operator to which the driver belongs and the driver's identification information may be used to obtain roll call information from the roll call server 2.

[0150] If there is any communication failure between the roll call terminal 1 and the roll call server 2, or if the roll call server 2 experiences a server outage or other abnormality, it may be impossible to operate the second button 92 on the selection screen shown in Figure 15(a). Specifically, even if the second button 92 is operated, the input may be invalid, or the second button 92 may be removed from the selection screen. In addition, the display color of the second button 92 may be changed from the normal color, or a message may be displayed to inform the user that it is impossible to obtain roll call information from the roll call server 2.

[0151] It should be noted that the flow described here is merely one example, and the configuration according to this embodiment can be realized in various other ways. For example, the selection screen shown in Figure 15(a) does not need to be displayed on the display 12 of the roll call terminal 1. In this case, when roll call information is input from the driver terminal 3 to the roll call terminal 1 in the same manner as in the first to fifth embodiments, the roll call terminal 1 may also acquire roll call information from the roll call server 2 based on the driver identification information, etc., included in the roll call information. At this time, the roll call terminal 1 may determine whether to use the roll call information acquired from the driver terminal 3 or the roll call information acquired from the roll call server 2 to perform the roll call processing, and proceed with the roll call processing using the selected roll call information.

[0152] For example, a priority may be set in advance for which roll call information to use for roll call processing: the roll call information obtained from the driver terminal 3 or the roll call information obtained from the roll call server 2. In this case, for example, if there are deficiencies such as missing information in the roll call information set to high priority, the other roll call information set to low priority may be used for roll call processing.

[0153] As another example, update date and time information (information indicating when the roll call information was generated) may be added to the roll call information, and the roll call information obtained from the driver terminal 3 and the roll call information obtained from the roll call server 2, whichever has the more recent update date and time information, may be used for the roll call processing.

[0154] As in this embodiment, when there are multiple routes for providing roll call information to the roll call terminal 1, the roll call process can be carried out smoothly even if one of the routes becomes unavailable. This further improves the stability of the roll call system CS.

[0155] The steps and other processes illustrated in the flowcharts in each of the above embodiments constitute means for realizing automated roll call processing. These means may be implemented by software, or by the cooperation of software and hardware.

[0156] For example, in the first embodiment, the process in step S103 constitutes a generation means, the process in step S104 constitutes a first transmission means, the process in step S105 constitutes a first reception means, the process in step S106 constitutes an authentication means, the process in step S107 constitutes a first output means, the process in step S108 constitutes a first acquisition means, the process in step S109 constitutes a determination means, the processes in steps S110 to S112 constitute a roll call processing means, the process in step S113 constitutes a second output means, the process in step S114 constitutes a second acquisition means, the process in step S116 constitutes a second transmission means, the process in step S117 constitutes a second reception means, and the process in step S118 constitutes a storage means. In the second to fourth embodiments, similar means can be identified from the processes shown in each flowchart.

[0157] Furthermore, in the fifth embodiment, the process in step S501 constitutes an output means, the process in step S502 constitutes an acquisition means, the process in step S503 constitutes a request means, the process in step S505 constitutes a generation means, the process in step S506 constitutes a first transmission means, the process in step S507 constitutes a first reception means, the process in step S508 constitutes an authentication means, the process in step S509 constitutes a determination means, the processes in steps S510 to S512 constitute a roll call processing means, the process in step S514 constitutes a second transmission means, the process in step S515 constitutes a second reception means, and the process in step S516 constitutes a storage means.

[0158] Furthermore, in each embodiment, the process of identifying the location where the roll call was conducted, to be included in the roll call result information, constitutes a location identification means for identifying the location (position) where the roll call was conducted. Each of the above means may be provided by any one of the roll call terminal 1, roll call server 2, driver terminal 3, administrator terminal 4, and operator server 5, or at least two of these may work together to implement it.

[0159] The automated roll call processing flow performed by the roll call system CS can be implemented in various forms other than those disclosed in each embodiment. For example, some of the processes shown in the flowchart in each embodiment may be performed by the roll call server 2. Furthermore, the processes disclosed in each embodiment can be combined as appropriate.

[0160] As described above, roll call terminal 1 and roll call server 2 are examples of "roll call equipment," and administrator terminal 4 and business server 5 are examples of "information processing equipment." "Roll call equipment" may consist of both roll call terminal 1 and roll call server 2, or it may further include equipment other than roll call terminal 1 and roll call server 2. Similarly, "information processing equipment" may consist of both administrator terminal 4 and business server 5, or it may further include equipment other than administrator terminal 4 and business server 5.

[0161] In each embodiment, an example was given in which the roll call terminal 1 is equipped with all of the following: an alcohol detector 18, a thermometer 19, and a blood pressure monitor 20. However, the roll call terminal 1 does not need to be equipped with any of these measuring devices.

[0162] The measuring equipment provided by the roll call terminal 1 may be available for use by general drivers and users of the facility where the roll call terminal 1 is installed. In this case, the roll call system CS will contribute to promoting the safety and health of general drivers and others.

[0163] In each embodiment, it was assumed that the roll call system CS is equipped with multiple roll call terminals 1. However, the number of roll call terminals 1 equipped in the roll call system CS may be one. Also, at least some of the roll call terminals 1 may be installed at the business premises of any of the transportation companies. In this case, drivers belonging to other transportation companies may be able to use the roll call terminals 1. Also, drivers belonging to the transportation company at the business premises where the roll call terminals 1 are installed may be able to use the roll call terminals 1.

[0164] In each embodiment, an example was given in which roll call information is provided to the driver terminal 3 from the operator server 5 or the administrator terminal 4. As another example, the roll call server 2 may provide the roll call information to the driver terminal 3. In this case, various information necessary for the driver's roll call may be transmitted in advance from the operator server 5 or the administrator terminal 4 to the roll call server 2 and stored in the database of the roll call server 2, or when the driver terminal 3 requests roll call information from the roll call server 2, the roll call server 2 may access the operator server 5 and obtain the roll call information.

[0165] For example, in steps S107 and S108 of the first embodiment, a method was described in which roll call information is input to the roll call terminal 1 via a two-dimensional code displayed on the display 32. In this regard, at least a portion of the roll call information, such as business operator information, vehicle ID, and driver name, may be input to the roll call terminal 1 via a two-dimensional code or one-dimensional code printed on a medium such as paper or a card. The same applies to the driver information (access information) input to the roll call terminal 1 in steps S501 and S502 of the fifth embodiment.

[0166] Figure 1 illustrates a configuration in which a carrier server 5 is deployed in each carrier system TS. However, the carrier server 5 may be provided in common for multiple carriers. In this case, the carrier server 5 may have a database DB for multiple carriers and be configured to communicate with administrator terminals 4 and driver terminals 3 of multiple carriers. The invention described in the original claims of this application is listed below. [1] The business system of the transportation company, A roll call device having at least one measuring device for alcohol concentration, body temperature, and blood pressure, Equipped with, The aforementioned service provider system is An information processing device that can access a database containing information about drivers belonging to a transportation company, A driver terminal capable of communicating with the aforementioned information processing device, Includes, The aforementioned information processing device is A generation means that generates information for driver roll call based on the information stored in the aforementioned database, A first transmission means for transmitting the roll call information to the driver's terminal, Equipped with, The aforementioned driver terminal is, A first receiving means that receives the roll call information transmitted by the first transmitting means, A first output means that outputs the roll call information received by the first receiving means to the roll call device, Equipped with, The aforementioned roll call equipment is A first acquisition means for acquiring the roll call information output by the first output means, A roll call processing means that performs roll call processing, including measurement by the measuring device, based on the roll call information acquired by the first acquisition means, A roll call system equipped with this feature. [2] The roll call device further comprises a second output means for outputting the measurement results from the measuring device to the driver terminal. The aforementioned driver terminal is, A second acquisition means for acquiring the measurement result output by the second output means, A second transmission means transmits the roll call result information, including the measurement result acquired by the second acquisition means, to the information processing device. Furthermore, The aforementioned information processing device is A second receiving means that receives the roll call result information transmitted by the second transmitting means, A storage means for storing the roll call result information received by the second receiving means, It also has, The roll call system described in [1] above. [3] The first output means displays a two-dimensional code representing the roll call information on the display of the driver's terminal. The first acquisition means acquires the roll call information by reading the two-dimensional code with the camera provided in the roll call device. The roll call system described in [1] above. [4] The first output means transmits the roll call information via the first short-range communication device provided in the driver terminal. The first acquisition means receives the roll call information via the second short-range communication device provided in the roll call equipment. The roll call system described in [1] above. [5] The aforementioned roll call information includes the driver's biometric information, At least one of the driver terminal and the roll call device further includes authentication means for performing biometric authentication of the driver based on the biometric information contained in the roll call information. A roll call system as described in any one of the above items [1] to [4]. [6] The business system of the transportation company, A roll call device having at least one measuring device for alcohol concentration, body temperature, and blood pressure, Equipped with, The aforementioned service provider system is An information processing device that can access a database containing information about drivers belonging to a transportation company, A driver terminal capable of communicating with the aforementioned information processing device, Includes, The aforementioned information processing device is A generation means that generates information for driver roll call based on the information stored in the aforementioned database, A first transmission means that transmits the roll call information to the roll call device in response to a request from the roll call device, Equipped with, The driver terminal is equipped with output means that outputs access information to the information processing device to the roll call device. The aforementioned roll call equipment is An acquisition means for acquiring the access information output by the output means, A request means that requests roll call information from the information processing device based on the access information acquired by the acquisition means, A first receiving means that receives the roll call information transmitted by the first transmitting means in response to a request from the requesting means, A roll call processing means that performs roll call processing, including measurement by the measuring device, based on the roll call information received by the first receiving means, A roll call system equipped with this feature. [7] The roll call device further comprises a second transmission means for transmitting roll call result information, including the measurement results from the measuring device, to the information processing device. The aforementioned information processing device is A second receiving means that receives the roll call result information transmitted by the second transmitting means, A storage means for storing the roll call result information received by the second receiving means, It also has, The roll call system described in [6] above. [8] The business system of the transportation company, A roll call device having at least one measuring device for alcohol concentration, body temperature, and blood pressure, Equipped with, The aforementioned service provider system is An information processing device that can access a database containing information about drivers belonging to a transportation company, A driver terminal capable of communicating with the aforementioned information processing device, A roll call method using a roll call system that includes, The information processing device generates information for driver roll call based on the information stored in the database, The information processing device transmits the roll call information to the driver's terminal, The driver terminal receives the roll call information, The driver terminal outputs the roll call information to the roll call device, The steps include: the roll call device acquiring the roll call information; Based on the acquired roll call information, the roll call equipment performs roll call processing, including measurement by the measuring equipment. A roll call method that includes this. [9] The roll call device outputs the measurement results from the measuring device to the driver's terminal, The driver terminal acquires the measurement result, The driver terminal transmits the roll call result information, including the measurement result, to the information processing device. The information processing device receives the roll call result information, The information processing device stores the roll call result information, Further including, The roll call method described in [8] above.

[10] The business system of the transportation company, A roll call device having at least one measuring device for alcohol concentration, body temperature, and blood pressure, Equipped with, The aforementioned service provider system is An information processing device that can access a database containing information about drivers belonging to a transportation company, A driver terminal capable of communicating with the aforementioned information processing device, A roll call method using a roll call system that includes, The driver terminal outputs access information to the information processing device to the roll call device. The steps include: The roll call device acquires the access information, The steps include: the roll call device requests the information processing device to use roll call information for calling drivers based on the access information; The information processing device generates the roll call information based on the information stored in the database, The information processing device transmits the roll call information to the roll call device in response to a request from the roll call device. The steps include: the roll call device receiving the roll call information; The roll call device performs a roll call process, including measurement by the measuring device, based on the roll call information. A roll call method that includes this.

[11] The steps include: the roll call device transmitting roll call result information, including the measurement result from the measuring device, to the information processing device; The information processing device receives the roll call result information, The steps include saving the roll call result information, Further including, The roll call method described in

[10] above. [Explanation of symbols]

[0167] CS...Roll call system, DB...Database, 1...Roll call terminal, 2...Roll call server, 3...Driver terminal, 4...Administrator terminal, 5...Operator server, 18...Alcohol detector, 19...Thermometer, 20...Blood pressure monitor.

Claims

1. The business system of the transportation company, A roll call device having at least one measuring device for alcohol concentration, body temperature, and blood pressure, Equipped with, The aforementioned service provider system is An information processing device that can access a database containing information about drivers belonging to a transportation company, A driver's terminal having a display and an input device for detecting operations on the display, which is held by a driver belonging to the transportation company and is capable of communicating with the information processing device, Includes, The aforementioned information processing device is A generation means that generates roll call information used for driver roll call based on information stored in the database in response to a request from the driver terminal, A first transmission means for transmitting the roll call information to the driver's terminal, Equipped with, The aforementioned driver terminal is, A request means that, in response to the detection of a predetermined operation by the driver by the input device, requests the roll call information from the information processing device, A first receiving means that receives the roll call information transmitted by the first transmitting means, A first output means that outputs the roll call information received by the first receiving means to the roll call device, Equipped with, The aforementioned roll call equipment is A first acquisition means for acquiring the roll call information output by the first output means, A roll call processing means that performs roll call processing, including measurement by the measuring device, based on the roll call information acquired by the first acquisition means, A roll call system equipped with this feature.

2. The roll call device further comprises a second output means for outputting the measurement results from the measuring device to the driver terminal. The aforementioned driver terminal is, A second acquisition means for acquiring the measurement result output by the second output means, A second transmission means transmits the roll call result information, including the measurement result acquired by the second acquisition means, to the information processing device. Furthermore, The aforementioned information processing device is A second receiving means that receives the roll call result information transmitted by the second transmitting means, The second receiving means provides storage means for storing the roll call result information received by the second receiving means, It also has, The roll call system according to claim 1.

3. The first output means displays a two-dimensional code representing the roll call information on the display provided in the driver's terminal. The first acquisition means acquires the roll call information by reading the two-dimensional code with the camera provided in the roll call device. The roll call system according to claim 1.

4. The first output means transmits the roll call information via the first short-range communication device provided in the driver terminal. The first acquisition means receives the roll call information via the second short-range communication device provided in the roll call equipment. The roll call system according to claim 1.

5. The generation means generates the roll call information including the driver's biometric information based on the information stored in the database, At least one of the driver terminal and the roll call device further includes authentication means for performing biometric authentication of the driver based on the biometric information contained in the roll call information. A roll call system according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. The driver terminal is a smartphone, tablet, or smartwatch owned by a driver belonging to the transportation business operator. A roll call system according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

7. A business system of a transportation business operator, A roll call device having at least one measuring device for alcohol concentration, body temperature, and blood pressure, Equipped with, The aforementioned service provider system is An information processing device that can access a database containing information about drivers belonging to a transportation company, A driver terminal capable of communicating with the aforementioned information processing device, Includes, The aforementioned information processing device is A generation means that generates information for driver roll call based on the information stored in the aforementioned database, A first transmission means for transmitting the roll call information to the driver's terminal, Equipped with, The aforementioned driver terminal is, A first receiving means that receives the roll call information transmitted by the first transmitting means, A first output means that outputs the roll call information received by the first receiving means to the roll call device, Equipped with, The aforementioned roll call equipment is A first acquisition means for acquiring the roll call information output by the first output means, A roll call processing means that performs roll call processing, including measurement by the measuring device, based on the roll call information acquired by the first acquisition means, Equipped with, The first output means displays a two-dimensional code representing the roll call information on the display provided in the driver's terminal. The first acquisition means is a roll call system that acquires roll call information by reading the two-dimensional code with a camera provided in the roll call device.

8. The business system of the transportation company, A roll call device having at least one measuring device for alcohol concentration, body temperature, and blood pressure, Equipped with, The aforementioned service provider system is An information processing device that can access a database containing information about drivers belonging to a transportation company, A driver's terminal having a display and an input device for detecting operations on the display, which is held by a driver belonging to the transportation company and is capable of communicating with the information processing device, A roll call method using a roll call system that includes, The driver terminal, upon detection of a predetermined operation by the driver by the input device, requests the information processing device to provide roll call information to be used for the driver's roll call; The steps include: In response to a request from the driver's terminal, the information processing device generates the roll call information based on the information stored in the database; The information processing device transmits the roll call information to the driver's terminal, The driver terminal receives the roll call information, The driver terminal outputs the roll call information to the roll call device, The steps include: the roll call device acquiring the roll call information; Based on the acquired roll call information, the roll call equipment performs roll call processing, including measurement by the measuring equipment. A roll call method that includes this.

9. The roll call device outputs the measurement results from the measuring device to the driver's terminal, The driver terminal acquires the measurement result, The driver terminal transmits the roll call result information, including the measurement result, to the information processing device. The information processing device receives the roll call result information, The information processing device stores the roll call result information, Further including, The roll call method according to claim 8.

10. The driver terminal is a smartphone, tablet, or smartwatch owned by a driver belonging to the transportation business operator. The roll call method according to claim 8 or 9.

11. A business system of a transportation business operator, A roll call device having at least one measuring device for alcohol concentration, body temperature, and blood pressure, Equipped with, The aforementioned service provider system is An information processing device that can access a database containing information about drivers belonging to a transportation company, A driver terminal capable of communicating with the aforementioned information processing device, A roll call method using a roll call system that includes, The information processing device generates information for driver roll call based on the information stored in the database, The information processing device transmits the roll call information to the driver's terminal, The driver terminal receives the roll call information, The steps include: displaying a two-dimensional code representing the roll call information on the display of the driver terminal; The roll call device reads the two-dimensional code using a camera provided by the roll call device, thereby enabling the roll call device to acquire the roll call information. Based on the acquired roll call information, the roll call equipment performs roll call processing, including measurement by the measuring equipment. A roll call method that includes this.

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