Personal mobility devices, and methods for operating personal mobility devices.

Abstract

To provide a personal mobility operation method.SOLUTION: A personal mobility operation method can include: a step for receiving user identification information used for a personal mobility to authenticate a user; a step for transmitting the received user identification information to a server; a step for receiving a use permission message from the server when a user is the user registered in the server; and a step for causing the personal mobility to be controlled by the user based on the received use permission message. In this regard, the personal mobility is able to travel within a prior set area for a prior set period of time.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to personal mobility and a method of operating personal mobility, and more particularly, to personal mobility after setting a usable pre-set area and a method of operating personal mobility.

Background Art

[0002] Recently, the miniaturization technology of products has been developing, and mobile bodies are also miniaturized in a personalized order-made manner. Recently, the need to use inexpensive personal mobility has been increasing, and technologies related to personal mobility have been developing multifariously. However, using personal mobility on actual roads may involve restrictions on laws and regulations. Also, on general roads, there is a risk of accidents caused by personal mobility, so it is necessary to control its use. In consideration of the above points, a method and a system for using personal mobility will be described below.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] An object of the present invention is to provide a method and a system for sharing personal mobility. An object of the present invention is to provide a method and a system for sharing personal mobility by providing a sharing area for personal mobility and sharing personal mobility based on this. An object of the present invention is to provide a method and a system for distinguishing the type of personal mobility based on the usage area. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a method for operating a personal mobility device can be provided. The method includes the steps of: the personal mobility device receiving user identification information for user authentication; transmitting the received user identification information to a server; if the user is a user registered with the server, receiving a permission message from the server; and the personal mobility device being controlled by the user based on the received permission message, wherein the personal mobility device can be a mobility device that can travel within a pre-set area for a pre-set time.

[0006] According to another embodiment of the present invention, a personal mobility device can be provided. The personal mobility device includes a transmitting and receiving unit that transmits and receives signals, and a processor that controls the transmitting and receiving unit, wherein the personal mobility device receives user identification information for user authentication, transmits the received user identification information to a server, receives a usage permission message from the server if the user is a user registered with the server, and the personal mobility device is controlled by the user based on the received usage permission message, wherein the personal mobility device can be a mobility device that can travel within a set area for a set time.

[0007] According to another embodiment of the present invention, a personal mobility operation system can be provided. The system may include a personal mobility device that confirms and provides location information and user identification information provided by the user, and an intelligent transportation infrastructure that confirms the user identification information and location information provided by the personal mobility device and controls at least one of the driving area, driving time, and driving speed of the personal mobility device based on the user identification information and location information. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present invention, a method and system for sharing personal mobility devices can be provided. According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an area for sharing personal mobility devices, and to provide a method and system for sharing personal mobility devices based on this area. According to the present invention, a method and system for distinguishing types of personal mobility devices based on their usage area can be provided. The technical problems that this invention aims to solve are not limited to those described above, and other technical problems not mentioned above will be clearly understood by those with ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs from the following description. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] This figure shows a method by which a personal mobility device according to one embodiment of the present invention communicates with other personal mobility devices or devices via a network. [Figure 2] This figure shows a method for using personal mobility in a smart factory according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] This diagram shows a method for using personal mobility devices in a large housing complex according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] This figure shows a method for sharing personal mobility devices according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] This figure shows a method for distinguishing personal mobility devices by type according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] This figure shows how a personal mobility device according to one embodiment of the present invention can be driven. [Figure 7] This is a sequence diagram for driving a personal mobility device according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] This is a sequence diagram for driving a personal mobility device according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9]This is a sequence diagram for driving a personal mobility device according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] This figure shows the configuration of the device according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings, so that they can be easily implemented by a person with ordinary skill in the art relating to the present invention. However, the present invention can be realized in a variety of different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein.

[0011] In describing embodiments of the present invention, if it is determined that a specific description of a known configuration or function may obscure the gist of the present invention, such detailed description will be omitted. In the drawings, parts unrelated to the description of the present invention will be omitted, and similar parts will be denoted by the same reference numerals.

[0012] In this disclosure, when one component is described as being “connected,” “joined,” or “linked” to another component, this can include not only direct connections but also indirect connections in which another component is interposed between them. Furthermore, when one component “includes” or “has” another component, this means, unless otherwise stated to the contrary, that it may include other components rather than excluding them.

[0013] In this disclosure, terms such as "first," "second," etc., are used solely for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another, and do not limit the order or importance of the components unless otherwise specified. Therefore, within the scope of the present invention, a first component in one embodiment may be referred to as a second component in another embodiment, and similarly, a second component in one embodiment may be referred to as a first component in another embodiment.

[0014] In the present invention, the components that are distinguished from each other are for clearly explaining their respective features, and do not necessarily mean that the components are separated. That is, a plurality of components may be integrated to form one hardware or software unit, or one component may be distributed to form a plurality of hardware or software units. Therefore, even without specific notice, such integrated or distributed embodiments are also included in the scope of the present invention.

[0015] In the present invention, the components described in various embodiments do not necessarily mean essential components, and some of them may be optional components. Therefore, embodiments constituted by a subset of the components described in one embodiment are also included in the scope of the present invention. Also, embodiments that further include other components in the components described in various embodiments are included in the scope of the present invention.

[0016] The advantages, features, and the methods for achieving them of the present invention will become clear by referring to the embodiments described in detail below together with the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below and can be realized in various different forms. However, this embodiment is merely provided to make the disclosure of the present invention complete and to fully inform those with ordinary knowledge in the technical field to which the present invention pertains of the scope of the invention.

[0017] In this invention, Personal Mobility means a personal means of transportation. Furthermore, in this invention, Personal Mobility may include means of transportation that can travel independently without user operation. For this purpose, Personal Mobility may include a vehicle with at least three wheels for stable independent travel, or a vehicle with one or two wheels that can maintain balance and travel independently (e.g., a single-wheel Segway, a two-wheel Segway, an electric kick scooter, etc.). As an example, Personal Mobility may mean a means of transportation that can be ridden or used by only one user. Also, as an example, Personal Mobility may mean a small means of transportation that can be used by a small number of users. As an example, the following description of Personal Mobility will be based on a means of transportation used by one passenger, but will not be limited to this. For example, Personal Mobility may be a means of transportation used by one passenger and small enough for the user to carry. Also, as an example, Personal Mobility may be a means of transportation similar in size to a cart and usable by one or more users. As a more specific example, personal mobility may be a means of transportation that is primarily powered by electricity and can be used by one or two people. For example, not only single-wheel, two-wheel, Segway-type, and electric kick scooters, but also electric wheelchairs, electric bicycles, and electric two-wheeled vehicles can be considered personal mobility. In one embodiment of the present invention, a wheelbase personal mobility device was exemplified, but the present invention is not limited thereto and can be modified in various ways. For example, personal mobility devices may include hoverboards, personal air vehicles (PAVs), and the like.

[0018] An intelligent traffic infrastructure in one embodiment of the present invention may include at least one traffic equipment device installed on a route (e.g., a road, a motorcycle-only path, a sidewalk, etc.) on which personal mobility devices travel. For example, if the route on which personal mobility devices travel is a road, the traffic equipment device may include a Road Side Unit (RSU). The traffic equipment device may also be installed on the road and independently function as a server. As another example, the traffic equipment device may be connected to a server via a wired / wireless network and may provide collected information to the server. Accordingly, the server may configure and provide intelligent traffic information using the information or data provided by at least one traffic equipment device. Furthermore, the intelligent traffic infrastructure may essentially communicate with each personal mobility device traveling along the route. Moreover, the intelligent traffic infrastructure may be other devices installed on the road and is not limited to the embodiments described above, and can be modified in various ways. In the embodiments of the present invention, the route on which personal mobility devices travel is exemplified as a road, but the present invention is not limited thereto, and the route on which personal mobility devices travel can be varied in various ways depending on the form of personal mobility, and furthermore, the traffic equipment device or server can also be modified in various forms.

[0019] Figure 1 illustrates how a personal mobility device can communicate with other personal mobility devices or devices via a network. Referring to Figure 1, a personal mobility device can communicate with other personal mobility devices or other devices. For example, a personal mobility device can communicate with other personal mobility devices or other devices based on cellular communication, WAVE communication, DSRC (Dedicated Short Range Communication), or other communication methods. In other words, cellular communication networks such as LTE and 5G, WiFi communication networks, and WAVE communication networks can be used. Furthermore, local area networks used by mobile devices, such as DSRC, can be used, and the embodiment is not limited to those described above.

[0020] Furthermore, as an example, in relation to communication in personal mobility devices, for the purpose of personal mobility security, a module capable of communicating only with devices located inside the personal mobility device and a module capable of communicating with devices outside the personal mobility device may exist separately. For example, inside the personal mobility device, communication can be performed based on security, such as with Wi-Fi communication, only with devices within a certain range inside the personal mobility device. Also, as an example, the personal mobility device may include a communication module that communicates with external devices. Also, as an example, the above-mentioned modules can be realized with a single module. In other words, based on a single module, the personal mobility device can communicate with other devices and is not limited to the embodiments described above. In other words, the communication method in personal mobility devices can be implemented based on various methods and is not limited to the embodiments described above.

[0021] Figure 2 shows a method for using personal mobility in a smart factory according to one embodiment of the present invention. In relation to the personal mobility devices mentioned above, their use can be legally restricted. More specifically, the current road system is divided into pedestrian and automobile areas. In this context, personal mobility devices do not necessarily have to be suitable for both pedestrian and automobile spaces. For example, if a personal mobility device is used in a pedestrian area, it may be legally restricted because there is a risk of accidents occurring due to collisions between the device and pedestrians. Also, if a personal mobility device is used in an automobile area, considering that it travels at low speeds, it may be legally restricted because it may obstruct the flow of automobiles or cause accidents.

[0022] Considering the points mentioned above, the use of personal mobility devices may be restricted, and therefore, strategies for utilizing personal mobility devices may be needed. In this case, for example, personal mobility devices can be restricted to use only in certain areas. For example, a certain area may be a smart factory or a large housing complex. As an example, referring to Figure 2, a smart factory can be built in an area that is too large for pedestrians to use on foot. On the other hand, vehicles may also be difficult to use in a smart factory, considering their relationship with pedestrians. Considering the points mentioned above, personal mobility devices can be made to be used in specific areas.

[0023] Figure 3 shows a method for using personal mobility in a large housing complex according to one embodiment of the present invention. As another example, referring to Figure 3, personal mobility devices can be used in areas such as housing complexes. For example, in the case of large housing complexes, vehicle operation can be restricted considering the relationship with pedestrians and the risk of accidents. For example, in some housing complexes, vehicles can only travel underground, and the use of vehicles above ground can be restricted. Considering the points mentioned above, personal mobility devices can be used in specific areas to improve the mobility of pedestrians and users. For example, a system can be built to allow personal mobility devices to be used in specific areas, which will be discussed later. Also, as an example, in the case of personal mobility devices, it is necessary to determine personal mobility device specifications because they need to be used without colliding with pedestrians or affecting pedestrian movement. As another example, if personal mobility devices are used indiscriminately within a specific area, there is a risk of hindering pedestrian movement, so restrictions may be necessary. Considering the points mentioned above, the following describes how personal mobility devices can be shared and used within a specific area, and how to configure personal mobility devices.

[0024] Figure 4 shows a method for sharing personal mobility devices according to one embodiment of the present invention. As a more concrete example, personal mobility devices can be shared and used within a specific area. In this case, the specific area could refer to, but is not limited to, a large housing complex or a smart factory where personal mobility devices can be used. For example, personal mobility devices can be shared and controlled within the specific area by a system. For example, a system for using and managing personal mobility devices can be built within a large housing complex, and personal mobility devices can be controlled based on a server for this system. For example, this system can operate based on a server that can communicate within the specific area. Furthermore, for example, this system can acquire location information for personal mobility devices within the specific area and store information about that area. In other words, the system can be a system that recognizes a specific area and controls personal mobility devices accordingly. For example, the number of personal mobility devices registered and used by the system can be limited. For example, the number of personal mobility devices available to the system can be set differently based on the size of the specific area. For example, if the specific area is large, the number of personal mobility devices available to the system can increase. Conversely, if the specific area is small, the number of personal mobility devices available to the system can decrease. In other words, the system can set the number of available personal mobility devices based on a specific area and determine the number of personal mobility devices to operate based on this. As mentioned above, it can avoid interfering with pedestrian traffic within that area.

[0025] Furthermore, for example, the system can control personal mobility devices to ensure they are used within a specific area. For instance, a personal mobility device can transmit its location information to the system at regular intervals. Based on this information, the system can control the personal mobility device to ensure it is used within a specific area. Another example is that a personal mobility device can determine its location. For instance, the personal mobility device may already have information about a specific area stored within it, and this stored information can be compared with the device's location information. This allows the personal mobility device to be controlled to prevent it from deviating from the specified area.

[0026] As another example, personal mobility devices can be shared by a system. More specifically, personal mobility devices can be shared by pre-configured users. For example, personal mobility devices can be shared among residents of a large housing complex. In this case, for example, pre-configured users may be users registered in the system. For example, the system can register and manage residents so that personal mobility devices used within a large housing complex can be used by residents. For example, the system can provide an environment in which residents can be registered, and through this environment, residents' community information (e.g., building number, apartment number, etc.) and authentication information (e.g., personal password, etc.) can be registered. Based on this, for example, personal mobility devices can authenticate pre-configured users through the system. As a more specific example, authentication for pre-configured users may be performed using registered community information (e.g., building number, apartment number, etc.) and authentication information (e.g., personal password, etc.). As another example, authentication for pre-configured users may be performed using another device for using the personal mobility device (e.g., a key to a personal room).

[0027] In one embodiment of the present invention, examples have been given of using a separate device (e.g., a key to a personal room), or community information (e.g., building number, apartment number, etc.) and authentication information (e.g., a personal password) for authentication of an already established user. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and it is sufficient to use various means that can authenticate that a user is already registered. For example, authentication of an already established user can also be performed using the biometric information of an already registered user. As an example, the system can register and manage biometric information for users. For example, biometric information may be fingerprints, iris scans, or other unique information that the user possesses, but is not limited to the embodiments described above.

[0028] As mentioned above, personal mobility devices can obtain authentication information (e.g., personal password information) via an input device. The personal mobility device can then transmit the received identification information to the system (or server). At this point, the system (or server) can determine whether the received identification information matches the identification information of an already registered user. If the received identification information matches the identification information of an already registered user, the system (or server) can transmit a usage permission message to the personal mobility device. The personal mobility device can then grant control to the user based on the usage permission message. This allows the user to control and use the personal mobility device. In other words, the system (or server) can register users who are eligible to use the personal mobility device, provide the personal mobility device with the identification information of the registered users, and restrict the use of the personal mobility device to only already configured users within specific areas.

[0029] On the other hand, as another example, a personal mobility device may be a means of transportation that travels at or below a pre-set speed. For example, a personal mobility device can travel within a specific area, taking into account its relationship with pedestrians. Taking the above into consideration, the system can set the maximum speed of the personal mobility device to or below a pre-set speed. For example, the pre-set speed may be 20 km / h. As yet another example, the system can readjust the pre-set speed based on the attributes of a specific area. As a concrete example, even with the same personal mobility device, if it is registered and used in a first system (e.g., a smart factory), it can be used at a first speed (e.g., 40 km / h) as its maximum speed. In contrast, if the personal mobility device is registered and used in a second system (e.g., a large housing complex), it can be used at a second speed (e.g., 20 km / h) as its maximum speed. Furthermore, even when used in the same system, a personal mobility device can be configured to adaptively limit its speed according to the environment in which the system is built. For example, in an environment where the density of machinery or equipment in the first system (e.g., a smart factory) is set higher than a predetermined threshold, the maximum speed can be set to the second speed (e.g., 20 km / h), and in an environment where the density of machinery or equipment is set to the same as or lower than the predetermined threshold, the maximum speed can be set to the first speed (e.g., 40 km / h). As another example, in a second system (e.g., a large housing complex), areas frequently used by pedestrians (e.g., building entrances, complex entrances, areas near playgrounds, etc.) have a relatively high probability of accidents, while areas not frequently used by pedestrians have a relatively low probability of accidents. Taking this into consideration, personal mobility devices can be operated with different maximum speeds set for different areas within the second system (e.g., a large housing complex). For example, a personal mobility device may have its maximum speed limited to a third speed (e.g., 10 km / h) in the first zone (e.g., building entrances, housing complex entrances, areas near playgrounds, etc.) and its maximum speed limited to a second speed (e.g., 20 km / h) in the second zone (e.g., areas not frequently used by pedestrians).Furthermore, personal mobility devices can be configured to temporarily limit their speed in consideration of the presence or absence of obstacles. For example, a personal mobility device can be configured to check whether there are pedestrians ahead and, if so, temporarily limit its speed to a fourth speed (e.g., 5 km / h) or to a complete stop. Ultimately, the maximum speed of a personal mobility device can be controlled by the system, regardless of the actual speed at which it can travel. In this case, the previously set speeds are merely examples and are not limited to the embodiments described above.

[0030] As another example, the usage time of personal mobility devices can be controlled by a system. For instance, since personal mobility devices can be shared by multiple users, time limits may be necessary. Also, since personal mobility devices may only be usable in specific areas, limiting usage time can prevent users from experiencing inconvenience. Considering the above points, the system can count usage time from the moment the personal mobility device is used and limit its use to a pre-set time. For example, the system can limit the use of a personal mobility device to 30 minutes after it identifies a user. In other words, considering its use in specific areas, the system can prevent continuous use by a single user. This allows for more efficient use of personal mobility devices.

[0031] As another example, the starting and ending points of personal mobility can be restricted. For example, as mentioned above, personal mobility can operate on electricity and is based on a charging system. Therefore, the starting and ending points of personal mobility can be restricted to specific locations. In this case, for example, in the case of a large housing complex, the starting and ending points can be restricted to building entrances, in front of each complex, and other pre-set locations. On the other hand, as another example, the starting and ending points may be equipped with space for charging the personal mobility. In this case, as another example, the system can provide information about the charging space to the personal mobility. This allows users of personal mobility to confirm the starting and ending points of their personal mobility use. As yet another example, the system can control user-specific information. As a specific example, the system can record information about users who exceed their usage time or users who have not ended their personal mobility use in a pre-set space (e.g., penalty points). In this case, the system can accumulate this information and restrict the use of personal mobility for specific users based on this information. As yet another example, the system can also record other information about the use of personal mobility. As a more specific example, the system could record information about the use of personal mobility devices and use this information to provide usage priorities (e.g., mileage or priority). Another specific example is the system being able to track the number of personal mobility devices in charging spaces at already designated locations.

[0032] Furthermore, the batteries installed in personal mobility devices discharge over time. Taking this into consideration, the system can monitor the battery status of the personal mobility device and manage its operation accordingly. For example, the system can receive destination input from the user, check the estimated power consumption required to travel the route to the destination, and identify and provide a personal mobility device with more than the confirmed estimated power. Alternatively, the system can check whether the personal mobility device selected by the user has the estimated power, and if not, request that the selected device be charged. Additionally, personal mobility devices may consume more power than the estimated power while in operation. Considering this, the personal mobility device can monitor its battery status during operation and provide this information to the user. Another example is that the personal mobility device can compare the monitored power with the estimated power at predetermined intervals (e.g., time, distance) to determine whether it is possible to travel to the destination. If the confirmation indicates that travel to the destination is impossible, the personal mobility device can control its operation to a mode with relatively lower current consumption compared to the normal operating mode (e.g., power-saving mode, eco mode). In this case, the power-saving mode may be a mode in which the use of internally or externally installed electronic equipment (e.g., monitors, lights, communication modules, etc.) is minimized during operation. The eco mode, on the other hand, is a mode in which the personal mobility device is driven while minimizing the power consumed during operation, and may be a mode in which the speed, acceleration, instantaneous acceleration, etc. are controlled in order to minimize the power consumed in driving the power unit of the personal mobility device (e.g., motor, etc.).

[0033] On the other hand, while one embodiment of the present invention exemplifies a user riding on a personal mobility device, the present invention is not limited to this. As another example, a user can either ride on a personal mobility device or push it, depending on the environment in which they are used. For example, a user can ride on a personal mobility device in areas where riding is permitted (e.g., a road for two-wheeled vehicles), but can push it in areas where riding is not permitted (e.g., a playground). As yet another example, a user can ride on a personal mobility device if the battery level is sufficient to reach their destination, but can push it if the battery level is found to be below the minimum threshold required to reach the destination. As mentioned above, situations may arise where a user pushes a personal mobility device, but due to the weight of the personal mobility device, pushing may not be easy. Taking this into consideration, the personal mobility device can be operated in either a riding mode or a moving mode, and the riding mode or the moving mode can be selected by the user or automatically set by the personal mobility device. For example, a personal mobility device can identify areas where riding is permitted (e.g., motorcycle paths) or areas where riding is not permitted (e.g., playgrounds), and set the riding mode or travel mode according to the identified area. Another example is that a personal mobility device can be set to riding mode as its operating mode, but can check the battery level at predetermined time intervals, and switch to travel mode if the checked battery level is below a minimum threshold that allows travel to the destination. Furthermore, a personal mobility device is equipped with a drive system such as a drive motor for movement, and the drive speed of the drive motor can be controlled according to the riding mode or travel mode. For example, in travel mode, the personal drive motor can be used as auxiliary power for the movement of the personal mobility device.By using the drive motor of a personal mobility device as auxiliary power, users can move the personal mobility device with less effort.

[0034] For example, the system can manage mileage for users of personal mobility devices. For instance, the system can calculate mileage based on the number of times, distance, and time spent using the personal mobility device. Another example is that the system can calculate mileage considering factors such as the location where the personal mobility device is picked up or returned. On the other hand, if personal mobility device usage is concentrated during commuting hours, personal mobility devices will be concentrated at entrances and exits of large housing complexes. Taking this into consideration, the system can allocate personal mobility devices to high-priority users based on the aforementioned mileage. In this way, the system can prevent personal mobility devices from being limited to specific locations. Another example is the construction of an unmanned personal mobility device system. In this case, for example, the system can control the unmanned movement of personal mobility devices. As a more specific example, the system can control the movement of personal mobility devices to pre-set locations via unmanned movement. For example, the system can distribute personal mobility devices to spaces available to users via unmanned movement during the early morning hours. In this case, for example, the personal mobility device can store information about pre-set locations. Furthermore, as an example, guidelines can be established that connect already defined locations within a specific area. For example, the guidelines may only connect already defined locations and may not be established in other areas. In this case, the personal mobility device can recognize the guidelines and move autonomously to the already defined locations based on the recognized guidelines. For example, the personal mobility device can periodically transmit video acquired from the front to a server, and the server can analyze the information on the video in front and continuously update it. Preferably, the server can analyze the information on the video in front by machine learning or AI analysis. The analysis of information on the video in front can be performed by various methods of processing image analysis.When a personal mobility device travels using guidelines, it is possible to confirm whether or not the device is straying from the guidelines. In other words, even if the personal mobility device cannot clearly recognize the guidelines via the lower camera, it can compare the current image with previously stored forward-facing images to further determine whether the vehicle is operating normally, thereby increasing driving reliability. As another example, the personal mobility device can recognize and travel using the lower camera. In this case, a guideline recognition error may occur in the personal mobility device. For example, a guideline recognition error may occur when the camera cannot identify the guidelines at a certain rate or higher. For example, this can occur when it is snowing or raining, or when the guidelines cannot be recognized based on obstacles at the bottom. In this case, if the recognition rate for the guidelines is below a certain level, the personal mobility device can determine that a guideline recognition error has occurred. If the personal mobility device determines that a guideline recognition error has occurred, it can request information for route confirmation from the server. At this time, the server can provide the personal mobility device or a user device such as a mobile phone with route identification information obtained through machine learning based on video information and other information periodically acquired from the personal mobility device. As an example, as mentioned above, since the personal mobility device travels along a fixed route, the video information recognized by the personal mobility device can be repeated, and the route can be confirmed based on this information. Subsequently, the personal mobility device can travel according to guidelines based on the video information acquired from the server. At this time, the personal mobility device continuously recognizes the guidelines using the camera at its lower end, and if the recognition rate of the guidelines is above a certain ratio, it can travel along the guidelines again.

[0035] Furthermore, the personal mobility device can periodically transmit the acquired video information to the server thereafter. On the other hand, as an example, if the personal mobility device is unable to view the video information or recognize the guidelines as described above, its operation can be interrupted and an error message can be transmitted to the server. As described above, the personal mobility device can be equipped only with a camera and operated within a certain area, thereby enabling the operation of low-cost personal mobility devices.

[0036] Another example is considering ways to improve the recognition rate of guidelines. For example, the recognition rate of guidelines can be improved by providing lamps or light-emitting parts on the personal mobility device. More specifically, since the camera is located at the bottom of the personal mobility device, light may be blocked, which may reduce the recognition rate of guidelines. To compensate for this, lamps or light-emitting parts capable of illuminating the guidelines can be provided. Another example is that the personal mobility device may further include a display unit, allowing users to further confirm whether they are moving along the guidelines via a map application. For example, the personal mobility device may display a map application. In this case, information regarding the guidelines can be shared in advance. Also, the guidelines can be complexly installed or set for various routes. Another example is that, due to the structural or structural characteristics of the personal mobility device, it may not be easy to equip it with a display. Also, even if the personal mobility device is equipped with a display, it may be difficult for the user to see the display. Considering this, the personal mobility device may output guidance information via an audio output device such as a speaker. In this case, the guidance information may include information indicating the direction of movement of the personal mobility device. As another example, personal mobility devices can include haptic-providing modules that utilize vibration, and these modules can output guidance information. For example, personal mobility devices such as electric scooters, electric wheelchairs, electric bicycles, and electric two-wheelers can have bar-type handlebars, and the user's hands can be gripped at both ends of the handlebars. Based on this, the haptic-providing module can be configured to provide haptic effects at both ends of the handlebars. In this case, the haptic-providing module can be configured to provide haptic effects at the handlebar end in the direction in which the personal mobility device is moving, in accordance with the direction in which it is moving.

[0037] In one embodiment of the present invention, the personal mobility device is exemplified as moving along guidelines to a pre-set location. However, the present invention is not limited to this and can be modified in various ways. As another example, the personal mobility device can be controlled by a system without guidelines and move to a pre-set location. For example, the personal mobility device can provide location information to a server device at predetermined time intervals (e.g., every 10 seconds), and the server device can provide the personal mobility device with waypoints to which the personal mobility device will move at predetermined time intervals (e.g., every 10 seconds), thereby controlling the personal mobility device to move to a pre-set location. As yet another example, the movement of the personal mobility device can be controlled by applying a combination of guideline-based movement and system control. For example, the personal mobility device can basically travel by recognizing guidelines, and if a guideline recognition error occurs, it can provide location information to the server device at predetermined time intervals (e.g., every 10 seconds). The server device can then provide the personal mobility device with waypoints to which it will travel at predetermined time intervals (for example, every 10 seconds), thereby controlling the personal mobility device to move to the pre-configured locations.

[0038] Figure 5 shows a method for distinguishing personal mobility devices by type according to one embodiment of the present invention. As described above, personal mobility is a personal means of transportation and may be a small means of transportation used by one person. Also, as an example, personal mobility may be a means of transportation used by one or more people. For example, Figures 5(a) and 5(b) may be examples of personal mobility, but are not limited to these. In this case, as an example, the system can set the types of personal mobility that are permitted based on information about a particular area. For example, if the particular area is a smart factory, the system can set the types of personal mobility that are permitted as personal mobility that can be ridden by one or more people. On the other hand, if the particular area is a large housing complex, the system can restrict the use to only Segways or smaller single-person personal mobility devices. For example, the system may already store information about personal mobility types, and the system may set the types of personal mobility that are permitted in a particular area based on the personal mobility type information that has already been stored, and is not limited to the embodiments described above.

[0039] Figure 6 shows a method by which a personal mobility device according to one embodiment of the present invention is driven. Referring to Figure 6, an infrastructure for controlling personal mobility devices can be constructed using the system. For example, personal mobility device 610 can communicate with other devices. In this case, for example, infrastructure 620-1 and 620-2 installed within a specific area can communicate with personal mobility device 610. For example, infrastructure 620-1 and 620-2 installed within a specific area may be streetlights or other installed RSUs (Road Side Units). Also, for example, infrastructure 620-1 and 620-2 can communicate with each other. Furthermore, the server can communicate with each of the infrastructure 620-1 and 620-2, and is not limited to the embodiments described above.

[0040] As a more specific example, the personal mobility device 610 can communicate with infrastructure 620-1 and 620-2 located adjacent to it. For example, the personal mobility device 610 can transmit its location information and driving information via communication. In this case, infrastructure 620-1 and 620-2 can transmit the information received from the personal mobility device 610 to a server. That is, the personal mobility device 610 can only include a local area network capable of communicating with infrastructure 620-1 and 620-2, and substantial control can be performed via infrastructure 620-1 and 620-2. As another example, the personal mobility device 610 can communicate directly with a server. For example, since a particular area may be a limited area, the personal mobility device 610 can transmit relevant information to the server via direct communication without using infrastructure, and can be controlled based on this information.

[0041] Figure 7 is a sequence diagram showing the operation of a personal mobility device according to one embodiment of the present invention. Through the intelligent transportation infrastructure described above, it is possible to determine whether or not a personal mobility device is leaving a specific area. As a more specific example, referring to Figure 7, the personal mobility device 710 can periodically transmit location information to the intelligent transportation infrastructure 720. In this case, for example, the personal mobility device 710 can transmit location information and its status information together to the intelligent transportation infrastructure 720. For example, the status information may be at least one of the personal mobility device 710's remaining range information, battery-related information, current usage time information, remaining usage time information, and current user information, but is not limited to the embodiments described above. In this case, the battery-related information may include at least one of the battery charge / discharge information and replacement (or charge) notification information indicating that the battery needs to be replaced (or charged). Furthermore, the battery charge / discharge information may include information indicating the battery's state of charge (SOC), and the personal mobility device 710 or the intelligent transportation infrastructure 720 can estimate the battery's charge / discharge state, whether or not charging is needed, and the battery's usable time based on the SOC. As another example, the personal mobility device 710 can transmit location and status information to the intelligent transportation infrastructure 720, as described above, only when it is being used by a user. In other words, if the personal mobility device 710 is not being used, the information may not be transmitted. In this case, the intelligent transportation infrastructure 720 can determine, based on the information received from the personal mobility device 710, whether or not the personal mobility device 710 has left a previously defined area. In other words, it can determine whether or not the personal mobility device 710 is located outside the specific area described above. If the personal mobility device 710 is located within the specific area, the intelligent transportation infrastructure 720 can transmit a confirmation message to the personal mobility device 710. As yet another example, the intelligent transportation infrastructure 720 can transmit information to a server confirming that the personal mobility device 710 is located within the specific area.

[0042] As another example, the personal mobility device 710 can transmit location information to the intelligent transportation infrastructure 720 based on event triggering. In this case, as an example, the event may be an accident occurring to the personal mobility device 710. Also, as an example, the event may be a change in the state of the personal mobility device 710. In other words, if an abnormality occurs to the personal mobility device 710 while the user is using it, the personal mobility device 710 can immediately transmit location information to the intelligent transportation infrastructure 720 even if the location information transmission cycle has not yet arrived. This allows the intelligent transportation infrastructure (or server) to determine whether the personal mobility device 710 is being used normally or not, and if an abnormality occurs, to take action based on the location information of the personal mobility device 710. For example, if an accident occurs to the personal mobility device 710, the intelligent transportation infrastructure (or server) can transmit the location information of the personal mobility device 710 to other organizations or other servers 119 and take action based on this information. In one embodiment of the present invention, an intelligent traffic infrastructure (or server) transmits location information to other organizations or other servers 119 and takes action based on this information. However, the present invention is not limited thereto and can be modified in various ways. For example, the personal mobility device 710 can use internally installed sensors (e.g., acceleration sensors) to check whether a collision has occurred or the amount of impact, and can determine whether an accident has occurred based on the confirmed results. When an accident occurs, it can transmit information about whether an accident has occurred along with its location information. Furthermore, the personal mobility device 710 can also be configured to check whether the intelligent traffic infrastructure has responded, and if no response is received from the intelligent traffic infrastructure, it can transmit its location information to an accident processing server 119 that manages accident processing.

[0043] Furthermore, as an example, if the personal mobility device 710 leaves a pre-defined area, the intelligent traffic infrastructure 720 can transmit a message to the personal mobility device 710 requesting it to return to the pre-defined area. In other words, the intelligent traffic infrastructure 720 can confirm whether or not the personal mobility device 710 is located within a specific area. In this case, as an example, if the personal mobility device 710 confirms the message from the intelligent traffic infrastructure 720 and returns to the specific area, the personal mobility device 710 can be used continuously. Conversely, as an example, if the intelligent traffic infrastructure 720 does not receive a response from the personal mobility device 710 or receives a response refusing to return, the intelligent traffic infrastructure 720 can switch control of the personal mobility device 710. In this case, as an example, the intelligent traffic infrastructure 720 can transmit a request to a server for switching control of the personal mobility device 710 and switch control of the personal mobility device 710 based on the server's request. For example, the intelligent transportation infrastructure 720 can be connected to a server device that controls the control rights of the personal mobility device 710 and transmit a control rights transfer request message requesting a switch of control rights of the personal mobility device 710. The server device can then transmit a control rights transfer processing message to the personal mobility device 710 to process the switch of control rights of the personal mobility device 710. As a result, the personal mobility device 710, upon receiving the control rights transfer processing message, can switch control rights. At this time, the control rights transfer processing message may include a command to the personal mobility device 710 to return to a previously set spot within a previously set area. Now that the control rights of the personal mobility device 710 have been transferred, the personal mobility device 710 can move autonomously to a previously set spot based on the system.

[0044] As another example, the personal mobility device 710 can already store information about a pre-defined area. In this case, for example, if the user leaves the pre-defined area, the personal mobility device 710 can restrict its use at the time of departure based on its location information and the pre-stored information. In other words, the personal mobility device 710 can recognize a pre-defined area and be configured not to travel beyond it. This allows for the restriction of the personal mobility device 710's use.

[0045] Figure 8 is a sequence diagram for driving a personal mobility device according to one embodiment of the present invention. Referring to Figure 8, as described above, the personal mobility device 810 can transmit location information and status information to the intelligent transportation infrastructure 820, as described above. In this case, as an example, as described above, the status information may include user information such as information on the user's usage time. For example, since the personal mobility device 810 can be used on a shared basis in a specific area, there may be a limit on the usage time, and it can operate based on this. In this case, the intelligent transportation infrastructure 820 can check whether the usage time has been exceeded or whether it has been left unattended without a user. More specifically, if the personal mobility device 810 is not being used, it may not transmit the location information and status information described above to the intelligent transportation infrastructure 820. On the other hand, if the personal mobility device 810 is being used by a user, it can transmit location information and information about the user to the intelligent transportation infrastructure 820. In this case, the intelligent transportation infrastructure can check, based on the received information, whether the personal mobility device 810 has been used up or whether it has been left unattended without a user. For example, the personal mobility device 810 can sense the user in use and transmit the sensed information to the intelligent transportation infrastructure 820. For example, the intelligent transportation infrastructure 820 can determine whether the personal mobility device 810 is abandoned or not based on the information sensed by the personal mobility device 810. Subsequently, the intelligent transportation infrastructure 820 can switch control of the personal mobility device 810. For example, the intelligent transportation infrastructure 820 can transmit a request to a server for switching control of the personal mobility device 810 and switch control of the personal mobility device 810 based on the server's request. At this time, the intelligent transportation infrastructure 820 can transmit a command to the personal mobility device 810 to return to a previously set spot within a previously set area.At this point, control of the personal mobility device 810 is transferred, allowing the personal mobility device 810 to move autonomously to a pre-set spot based on the system.

[0046] Figure 9 is a sequence diagram for driving a personal mobility device according to one embodiment of the present invention. Referring to Figure 9, the personal mobility device 910 is available outside of a previously defined area. For example, if a user attempts to use the personal mobility device 910 outside of a previously defined area, the user can transmit information about the request to use the outside area to the intelligent transportation infrastructure 920 via the personal mobility device 910. The intelligent transportation infrastructure 920 then transmits this information to a server, which can determine whether or not the use is permitted. For example, the intelligent transportation infrastructure 920 (or server) can determine whether or not the use outside of a previously defined area is permitted using at least one piece of information from the number of personal mobility devices in that particular area, the frequency of personal mobility device use, and the time of use. For example, the intelligent transportation infrastructure 920 (or server) may not allow use outside of a previously defined area during times when personal mobility device use is high. Also, for example, the intelligent transportation infrastructure 920 (or server) may not allow use outside of a previously defined area if the number of personal mobility devices used outside of a previously defined area exceeds a certain threshold. In other words, the intelligent transportation infrastructure 920 (or server) can limit the number of personal mobility devices available outside of the pre-configured area. Based on the above, the intelligent transportation infrastructure 920 can transmit a response to the personal mobility device 910 regarding whether or not use outside the pre-configured area is possible. If use outside the pre-configured area is possible, the personal mobility device 910 is freed from the restrictions on use within the already configured area and becomes available for use in other areas. However, as an example, the intelligent transportation infrastructure 920 (or server) can transmit usage restriction information for use outside of the already configured area to the personal mobility device 910. For example, the usage time of the personal mobility device 910 outside the pre-configured area can be limited. Also, as an example, additional user authentication may be performed for the use of the personal mobility device 910 outside the pre-configured area. Also, as an example, billing settings may be configured for the use of the personal mobility device 910 outside the pre-configured area, but this is not limited to the embodiments described above. In contrast, if it is not possible to use the personal mobility device 910 outside of the already set area, the personal mobility device 910 can only be used within the already set area, and the specific usage is as described above.

[0047] Figure 10 shows the configuration of an apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention. Referring to Figure 10, the apparatus may include at least one of the personal mobility devices, mobile devices, servers, and RSUs described above. In other words, the apparatus may be an apparatus that communicates with and interacts with other devices, but is not limited to the embodiments described above. For example, apparatus 1000 may include at least one of the processor 1010, memory 1020, and transceiver 1030 for the operation described above. In other words, the apparatus may include the configuration necessary for communicating with other devices. Also, for example, the apparatus may include other configurations in addition to the configuration described above. The apparatus may be an apparatus that includes, and is not limited to, the above-described apparatus for communicating with other devices, and operates based on the above.

[0048] The exemplary methods of the present invention described above describe the operation for clarity of explanation, but this does not restrict the order in which the steps are performed, and each step can be performed simultaneously or in a different order, if necessary. To implement the methods according to the present invention, it is also possible to include other steps in addition to the exemplary steps, or to include the remaining steps with some steps excluded, or to include yet another set of steps with some steps excluded.

[0049] The various embodiments of the present invention are not a list of all possible combinations, but rather are intended to illustrate representative aspects of the invention, and the matters described in the various embodiments may be applied independently or in combination of two or more.

[0050] Furthermore, various embodiments of the present invention can be realized by hardware, firmware, software, or a combination thereof. In the case of hardware implementation, it can be realized by one or more ASICs (Application Specific Integrated Circuits), DSPs (Digital Signal Processors), DSPDs (Digital Signal Processing Devices), PLDs (Programmable Logic Devices), FPGAs (Field Programmable Gate Arrays), general processors, controllers, microcontrollers, microprocessors, etc.

[0051] The scope of the present invention includes software or machine-executable instructions (e.g., operating systems, applications, firmware, programs, etc.) that enable the operation of various embodiments to be performed on a device or computer, and non-transitory computer-readable medium on which such software or instructions etc. are stored and executable on a device or computer. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0052] 119 Servers 610, 710, 810, 910 Personal Mobility 620-1, 620-2 Infrastructure 720, 820, 920 Transportation Infrastructure 1000 Mobile Units 1010 Processor 1020 memory 1030 Transmitter / Receiver

Claims

1. A method of operation for personal mobility, The steps include: The personal mobility device receiving user identification information for user authentication; The steps include transmitting the received user identification information to the server, If the user is a user registered with the server, the user receives a permission message from the server. The steps include: the personal mobility device being controlled by the user based on the received permission message; The aforementioned personal mobility device is a mobility device that can travel within a pre-defined area for a pre-defined period of time. The start and end of use of the personal mobility device are performed within the previously set area. The personal mobility device is capable of traveling within the set area at a speed below a previously set speed. The previously set speed is set for each previously set region based on the attributes of the previously set region. If the personal mobility device is used by the user outside the already configured area, the personal mobility device transmits a request message to the server for use outside the already configured area. A personal mobility operation method characterized in that the server determines whether an area outside the already set area is available and transmits a response message to the personal mobility device.

2. The personal mobility operation method according to claim 1, characterized in that when the personal mobility is controlled by the user, the personal mobility periodically transmits its location information to the server.

3. The personal mobility operation method according to claim 2, characterized in that the personal mobility transmits the location information and status information of the personal mobility together to the server.

4. The personal mobility operation method according to claim 3, characterized in that the status information includes at least one of the following: information on the personal mobility's driving range, battery-related information, current battery usage time information, remaining battery usage time information, and current user information.

5. The personal mobility operation method according to claim 2, characterized in that when an event occurs in the personal mobility, the personal mobility immediately transmits the location information of the personal mobility to the server based on the event.

6. The personal mobility operation method according to claim 5, characterized in that the event is detected by the personal mobility when an abnormality occurs in the status information of the personal mobility.

7. The personal mobility operation method according to claim 1, characterized in that the personal mobility is a personal mobility capable of traveling within a previously set area for a previously set period of time at or below a previously set speed.

8. The personal mobility device operation method according to claim 7, characterized in that the personal mobility device is charged with power in the previously set area.

9. Between the aforementioned already established areas, guidelines are in place that allow the personal mobility device to move. The personal mobility operation method according to claim 7, characterized in that the personal mobility device moves unmanned between the already set areas in accordance with the guidelines based on the control of the server.

10. The personal mobility operation method according to claim 1, characterized in that the server determines whether it is possible to use an area outside the already configured area based on at least one of the number of personal mobility devices in the already configured area, the time of use, and the frequency of use information.

11. The personal mobility operation method according to claim 1, characterized in that the user identification information includes at least one of a fingerprint, iris, and personal password.

12. The personal mobility device operation method according to claim 6, characterized in that the personal mobility device confirms the event of an accident based on the detected presence or absence of a collision or the amount of impact, and notifies the intelligent transportation infrastructure of the information of the accident.

13. The personal mobility operation method according to claim 12, characterized in that it confirms the receipt of a response message corresponding to the transmission of information about the occurrence of the accident, and provides the information about the occurrence of the accident to at least one accident processing server in response to whether or not the response message has been received.

14. It is a personal mobility device, A transmitting and receiving unit that sends and receives signals, A processor that controls the transmitting and receiving unit, The aforementioned processor, The personal mobility device receives user identification information for user authentication. Based on the received user identification information, the system or server checks whether the user is already configured. In accordance with the fact that the user has already been configured, control rights of the personal mobility device are granted to the user who has already been configured. The aforementioned personal mobility device is a mobility device that can travel within a pre-defined area for a pre-defined period of time. The personal mobility device is capable of traveling within the set area at a speed below a previously set speed. The previously set speed is set for each previously set region based on the attributes of the previously set region. A request message for the use of the personal mobility device outside of the already configured area is sent to the server. A personal mobility device characterized by receiving a response message from the server containing information indicating whether or not the unconfigured area can be used.

15. The personal mobility device according to claim 14, characterized in that the start and end of use of the personal mobility device are performed only within the previously set area.

16. The personal mobility device according to claim 15, characterized in that the personal mobility device is charged with power in the previously set area.

17. Guidelines are in place between the aforementioned already established areas, allowing the personal mobility devices to move between them. The personal mobility device according to claim 16, characterized in that it moves unmanned between the already set areas in accordance with the guidelines based on the control of the server.

18. The aforementioned processor, The personal mobility device according to claim 16, characterized in that it controls the use of the personal mobility device outside the already set area based on the information recorded in the response message.

Images