Information output method, program, and information output system

Abstract

This information output method includes: acquiring at least area information that pertains to an area of interest in which a service is provided using a moving vehicle in which a person or a delivery article is aboard and moving vehicle information that pertains to the moving vehicle as input information (S201); executing simulations of the motion of the moving vehicle and the motion of an object existing in the area of interest, on the basis of the input information (S202); calculating the optimum solution of an objective function using the execution result of the simulations so as to evaluate the service (S203-S205); and outputting evaluation information regarding the evaluation of the service that at least includes safety information related to the safety of the service (S206). The safety information includes the occurrence degree of an interference of the moving vehicle with an object in the area of interest.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an information output method, a program, and an information output system for outputting an evaluation of a mobility service.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, with the changes in the environment surrounding the market represented by CASE (Connected Autonomous Shared Electric), the demand for mobility services has been expanding. On the other hand, the elements (service factors) that make up a mobility service are diverse, and in order to optimize a mobility service, it is necessary to design and evaluate the mobility service in advance.

[0003] Patent Document 1 discloses a traffic system optimization device. This traffic system optimization device includes an optimization condition setting unit and an optimization execution unit. The optimization condition setting unit has a function of specifying the conditions for optimizing the specifications of a traffic system as a range on a map. The optimization execution unit optimizes the specifications of a traffic system by simulation using a computer under the optimization conditions set by the optimization condition setting unit. In Patent Document 1, a railway system is cited as an example of the traffic system to be optimized by this traffic system optimization device.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] However, while Patent Document 1 aims to optimize the specifications of the railway system as a transportation system, it has the problem that it is not sufficient to optimize mobility services. In other words, Patent Document 1 does not consider the possibility of objects entering the travel route of a train, which is a moving object, because, in principle, entry of people or other moving objects is prohibited. For this reason, the technology disclosed in Patent Document 1 has the problem that it is not possible to conduct a prior study of mobility services that take safety into consideration in areas where entry of objects into the travel route is permitted.

[0006] Therefore, this disclosure provides an information output method, etc., that enables prior consideration of safety for mobility services in areas where the entry of objects into the movement path of a moving object is permitted. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The information output method in this disclosure is an information output method performed by a computer, which acquires at least area information relating to a target area where a service using a mobile body carrying a person or delivered goods is performed, and mobile body information relating to the mobile body as input information, performs a simulation of the movement of the mobile body and the movement of objects present in the target area based on the input information, evaluates the service by calculating the optimal solution of the objective function using the results of the simulation, and outputs evaluation information relating to the evaluation of the service, which includes at least safety information relating to the safety of the service, and the safety information includes the degree of interference between the mobile body and the objects in the target area.

[0008] These comprehensive or specific embodiments may be implemented as a system, method, integrated circuit, computer program, or recording medium such as a computer-readable CD-ROM, or as any combination of a system, method, integrated circuit, computer program, and recording medium. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to one aspect of this disclosure, the information output method, etc., allows for prior consideration of safety when examining mobility services in areas where the entry of objects into the movement path of a moving object is permitted. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a block diagram showing an example of an information output system according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a diagram showing a basic example of the input screen in the information output system according to the embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 shows an example of the input screen for the traffic volume of an object in the information output system according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] Figure 4 shows an example of the relationship between service evaluation metrics and parameters obtained as input information. [Figure 5] Figure 5 shows a basic example of the output screen in the information output system according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the use of the information output system according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the information output system according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] Figure 8 shows a first example of the output screen in the information output system according to the embodiment. [Figure 9] Figure 9 shows a second example of the output screen in the information output system according to the embodiment. [Figure 10] Figure 10 shows a third example of the output screen in the information output system according to the embodiment. [Figure 11] Figure 11 shows a fourth example of the output screen in the information output system according to the embodiment. [Figure 12] Figure 12 shows an example of the correlation between the type of recipient of the service evaluation and the content of the output. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0011] An information output method according to an aspect of the present disclosure is an information output method executed by a computer. The method includes obtaining at least area information regarding a target area where a service using a moving body on which a person or a delivery object rides is provided, and moving body information regarding the moving body as input information. Based on the input information, a simulation of the movement of the moving body and the movement of an object existing in the target area is executed, and an evaluation of the service is performed by calculating an optimal solution of an objective function using the execution result of the simulation. Evaluation information regarding the evaluation of the service, including at least safety information regarding the safety of the service, is output. The safety information includes the degree of occurrence of interference between the moving body and the object in the target area.

[0012] According to this, when a person who conducts prior consideration in operating a service checks the evaluation information, in an area (target area) where an object (target object) is allowed to enter the movement route of the moving body, prior consideration of a mobility service considering safety can be performed.

[0013] For example, the moving body may be remotely operable, and the safety information may include the degree of occurrence of intervention by remote operation on the moving body.

[0014] <00者は、より詳細にサービスの安全性について事前検討しやすくなる。According to this, a person who conducts prior consideration of the service can more easily conduct prior consideration of the safety of the service.

[0015] For example, the area information may include information regarding the traffic volume of the object in the target area.

[0016] According to this, by referring to the traffic volume of the object in the target area, the accuracy of the evaluation of the safety of the service can be improved.

[0017] For example, the mobile body information may include information about the type of the mobile body, the speed of the mobile body, and the number of the mobile bodies operating in the target area.

[0018] According to this, by referring to the details of the mobile body, the accuracy of the evaluation of the service safety can be improved.

[0019] For example, the evaluation information may be output by visualizing the occurrence mode of the risk regarding the safety of the service in the target area and displaying it on the display unit.

[0020] According to this, those who conduct prior consideration when operating the service can visually grasp the occurrence mode of the risk, and it becomes easier to consider countermeasures against the risk.

[0021] For example, further, the occurrence mode of the risk may be displayed on the display unit in an animation.

[0022] According to this, those who conduct prior consideration when operating the service can visually grasp the occurrence mode of the risk in more detail.

[0023] For example, the evaluation information may be output by visualizing the occurrence position of the risk regarding the safety of the service in the target area and displaying it on the display unit.

[0024] According to this, those who conduct prior consideration when operating the service can visually grasp the occurrence position of the risk, and it becomes easier to consider countermeasures against the risk.

[0025] For example, further, the evaluation information may be output by emphasizing the evaluation of the service at the time of the occurrence of the risk and displaying it on the display unit.

[0026] According to this, those who conduct prior consideration when operating the service can easily grasp the influence of the risk on the evaluation of the service.

[0027] For example, countermeasures information indicating measures to address risks regarding the safety of the service in the target area may be further output.

[0028] According to this, those conducting preliminary studies when operating a service will be able to consider risk countermeasures more deeply based on the information provided.

[0029] For example, the evaluation information may further include economic rationality information relating to the economic rationality of the service.

[0030] According to this, those who conduct preliminary studies before operating a service will find it easier to consider the economic rationality of the service.

[0031] For example, the economic rationality information may further include the total of the initial costs and operating costs for the service.

[0032] According to this, those conducting preliminary studies before operating a service will find it easier to consider whether the service is feasible in light of the budget.

[0033] For example, the evaluation information may further include convenience information regarding the convenience of the service.

[0034] According to this, those conducting preliminary studies before operating a service will find it easier to consider the service's usability.

[0035] For example, the evaluation information may include information about multiple search processes of the simulation that were carried out to calculate the optimal solution of the objective function.

[0036] According to this, those conducting preliminary studies before operating a service will find it easier to re-examine the various parameters used in the simulation by referring to information about the exploration process.

[0037] For example, the evaluation information may be output by displaying the multiple evaluations calculated in each of the multiple search processes on the display unit in a manner that allows for comparison.

[0038] According to this, those conducting preliminary evaluations before operating a service will find it easier to make a decision on whether or not to adopt the service by comparing and considering multiple evaluations.

[0039] For example, the evaluation information may include content corresponding to the type of recipient to whom the evaluation of the service is presented.

[0040] According to this, appropriate evaluation information can be presented to the recipient depending on the type of person conducting the preliminary review before operating the service.

[0041] For example, the types of recipients may further include decision-makers regarding the adoption of the service, planners and designers of the service, planners and designers of businesses using the service, or operators of the service.

[0042] According to this, appropriate evaluation information can be presented to the recipient depending on the type of person conducting the preliminary review before operating the service.

[0043] For example, information for specifying the objective function may be further acquired as input information.

[0044] According to this, those who conduct preliminary studies when operating a service will find it easier to conduct those studies in accordance with their objectives.

[0045] A program relating to one aspect of this disclosure causes a computer to execute the above-described information output method.

[0046] According to this, those who conduct preliminary studies when operating a service can, by checking evaluation information, conduct preliminary studies of mobility services that take safety into consideration in areas (target areas) where it is permitted for objects (targets) to enter the movement path of a mobile object.

[0047] An information output system according to one aspect of this disclosure comprises an acquisition unit, an execution unit, an evaluation unit, and an output unit. The acquisition unit acquires, at least, area information relating to a target area where a service using a mobile body carrying a person or delivered goods is performed, and mobile body information relating to the mobile body, as input information. The execution unit performs a simulation of the movement of the mobile body and the movement of objects present in the target area based on the input information acquired by the acquisition unit. The evaluation unit evaluates the service by calculating the optimal solution of an objective function using the results of the simulation performed by the execution unit. The output unit outputs evaluation information relating to the evaluation of the service by the evaluation unit, which includes at least safety information relating to the safety of the service. The safety information includes the degree of interference between the mobile body and the objects in the target area.

[0048] According to this, those who conduct preliminary studies when operating a service can, by checking evaluation information, conduct preliminary studies of mobility services that take safety into consideration in areas (target areas) where it is permitted for objects (targets) to enter the movement path of a mobile object.

[0049] The embodiments will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings.

[0050] The embodiments described below are all general or specific examples. The numerical values, shapes, materials, components, arrangement and connection configurations of components, steps, and the order of steps shown in the following embodiments are examples only and are not intended to limit this disclosure.

[0051] (Embodiment) The following describes the information output system and information output method according to the embodiment.

[0052] Figure 1 is a block diagram showing an example of an information output system 100 according to an embodiment. The information output system 100 is a system for performing a simulation of a service using a mobile body 1 (see Figure 8), i.e., a mobility service, and outputting an evaluation of the mobility service based on the results of the simulation. Mobility services include, for example, a service that delivers goods to a client, such as a parcel delivery or food delivery service. Mobility services also include, for example, a service that transports people to their destination.

[0053] Mobile object 1 is, for example, a vehicle such as an automobile or a motorcycle, but it may also be a mobile object other than a vehicle, such as an autonomous robot. Furthermore, mobile object 1 may be manually operated, semi-autonomous, or fully autonomous.

[0054] The information output system 100 is an example of a computer that executes an information output method. The components constituting the information output system 100 may be housed in a single enclosure or may be distributed. If the components constituting the information output system 100 are distributed, the information output method may be executed by multiple computers.

[0055] The information output system 100 is implemented by, for example, a personal computer or a server device. In this embodiment, the information output system 100 is implemented by a personal computer. In this embodiment, at least a portion of the information necessary for the simulation performed by the information output system 100 is obtained from an information terminal 200 owned by the user. The user referred to here is a user of the information output system 100.

[0056] The information terminal 200 is a portable terminal such as a smartphone or tablet, and comprises an input unit 21 and a display unit 22. The input unit 21 accepts user input via an input device such as a mouse or keyboard, or input via the user's finger. The display unit 22 is, for example, a liquid crystal display, and displays an input screen used when inputting input information (described later) or an output screen that displays evaluation information (described later). In this embodiment, the display unit 22 is configured as a touch panel display. Therefore, in this embodiment, the display unit 22 also serves as the input unit 21.

[0057] The information output system 100 may be installed in the information terminal 200 as one of its functions. Conversely, the information terminal 200 may be installed in the information output system 100 as one of its functions. In other words, the information output system 100 and the information terminal 200 may be implemented as a single integrated device.

[0058] As shown in Figure 1, the information output system 100 comprises an acquisition unit 11, an execution unit 12, an evaluation unit 13, and an output unit 14. The information output system 100 is a computer including a processor, a communication interface, and memory. The memory is ROM (Read Only Memory) and RAM (Random Access Memory), and can store programs executed by the processor. The acquisition unit 11, execution unit 12, evaluation unit 13, and output unit 14 are realized by a processor and a communication interface that execute programs stored in memory.

[0059] The acquisition unit 11 acquires input information, which consists of various parameters used in the simulation by the execution unit 12. In particular, the acquisition unit 11 acquires at least area information and mobile body information as input information. Area information is information about the target area where a service using a mobile body 1 carrying people or delivered goods is provided. Area information includes map data of the target area and data showing the movement route of the mobile body 1 within the target area. Mobile body information is information about the mobile body 1 and includes data showing the type of mobile body 1, the speed of the mobile body 1, and the number of mobile bodies 1 operated in the target area.

[0060] In this embodiment, the acquisition unit 11 acquires information entered by the user at the input unit 21 of the information terminal 200 as input information. Specifically, the user enters various parameters used for the simulation in the execution unit 12 while viewing the input screen displayed on the display unit 22 of the information terminal 200. As a result, the acquisition unit 11 acquires the input information entered at the input unit 21.

[0061] Figure 2 is a diagram showing a basic example of the input screen in the information output system 100 according to the embodiment. The information entered here is acquired by the acquisition unit 11. As shown in Figure 2, the input screen displayed on the display unit 22 includes an area 31 for inputting the target area from the area information, an area 32 for inputting the traffic volume of the target object 2 (see Figure 8) from the area information, and an area 33 for inputting the demand volume generated in the target area from the area information. In other words, in the embodiment, the area information includes information regarding the traffic volume of the target object 2 in the target area. The demand volume here refers to the amount of requests for the transportation of people or the delivery of goods from service users in the target area.

[0062] The input screen also includes an area 34 for inputting variables among the various parameters used in the simulation, such as information about the moving object, and an area 35 for inputting constraints for running the simulation. Furthermore, the input screen includes an area 36 for inputting the objective function calculated using the simulation results, and an icon 37 for starting the simulation. When the user selects the icon 37, the simulation starts.

[0063] Here, Object 2 is an object present in the target area. More specifically, Object 2 is an object present in the target area that can enter the movement path of Mobile 1 (in this case, a road). Object 2 may include living organisms such as people, as well as vehicles such as automobiles. Furthermore, Object 2 may also include other mobile objects when the simulation is run with focus on any mobile object 1.

[0064] Area 31 displays the text "Select Target Area," an icon 311 for entering a target area that includes the text "Set Base Location," and a map A1 showing the entered target area. By selecting icon 311, the user can input a target area by, for example, specifying the range of the target area while viewing map data provided by an external service that handles map data, or by entering the name of the region of the target area.

[0065] In this embodiment, map A1 includes metadata indicating the movable paths of the mobile object 1, path features such as intersections, and locations inaccessible to the mobile object 1. If metadata is not included in map A1, the information output system 100 may generate metadata by performing appropriate image analysis processing on map A1.

[0066] Furthermore, by performing actions such as marking on map A1, the user may be able to set locations in the target area where the movement of mobile object 1 is prohibited, or set additional movement routes.

[0067] Area 32 displays an icon 321 containing the string "Import Traffic Volume" and an icon 322 containing an image of a fountain pen. By selecting icon 321, the user can load existing historical traffic volume data for object 2 in the target area, which the user has prepared in advance, into the information output system 100. On the other hand, by selecting icon 322, the user can customize the traffic volume for object 2 in the target area as needed.

[0068] Figure 3 shows an example of an input screen for the traffic volume of object 2 in the information output system 100 according to the embodiment. When the user selects icon 322 on the input screen shown in Figure 2, the input screen shown in Figure 3 is displayed on the display unit 22. On the left side of the input screen, icons 323 for specifying "person" as object 2 and icons 324 for specifying "car" as object 2 are displayed. In addition, the map A1 of the target area is displayed in the center of the input screen. Furthermore, on the right side of the input screen, icons 325 to 327 for specifying the amount of traffic volume of the specified object 2 and icon 328 for specifying locations where interference between the moving body 1 and object 2 is likely to occur are displayed.

[0069] In the input screen shown in Figure 3, the user specifies object 2 by selecting either icon 323 or 324, and specifies the traffic volume of object 2 in the target area by selecting one of icons 325 to 327. For example, if the user selects both icon 324 and icon 325, it becomes possible to specify areas with high car traffic volume on map A1. In this state, the user can specify a particular area by drawing lines on map A1, etc., to set the car traffic volume in that area. In the example shown in Figure 3, lines A11 to A13 all represent the car traffic volume in the target area. Car traffic volume is low in the area of ​​line A11 and high in the area of ​​line A13.

[0070] Furthermore, by selecting icon 328, the user can designate areas on map A1 where there is a high probability of risk occurring, such as interference between moving object 1 and target object 2. In this state, the user can place a star marker A14 on the map to set areas within the target area where risk is likely to occur.

[0071] Area 33 displays icon 331 containing the string "Import Demand" and icon 332 containing an image of a fountain pen. By selecting icon 331, the user can load existing historical demand data for a target area that the user has prepared in advance into the information output system 100. Alternatively, by selecting icon 332, the user can customize the potential demand for the target area as needed.

[0072] Area 34 displays the string "Variable Setting Area," and also shows a text box 341 for entering the type of mobility (i.e., mobile object 1), a text box 342 for entering the number of mobility units operating in the target area, and a text box 343 for entering the speed (i.e., velocity) of the mobility. The user can input variables (in this case, mobile object information) by entering the desired string in text box 341 and the desired numerical values ​​in text boxes 342 and 343, respectively.

[0073] Note that text boxes 342 and 343 may accept not only a single value but also a minimum and maximum value. Furthermore, area 34 may display a dropdown list instead of text boxes 341-343. Also, the variables that can be entered in area 34 are not limited to movement information; other variables may also be accepted. Other variables will be discussed later.

[0074] Area 35 displays the string "Constraints," and also shows a text box 351 for entering business hours (i.e., service provision hours), a text box 352 for entering the frequency of near-miss risks that the service can tolerate (in this case, the number of near-miss risks per day), and a text box 353 for entering the frequency of remote intervention risks that the service can tolerate (in this case, the number of remote intervention risks per day). Near-misses and remote interventions will be discussed later.

[0075] The user can input constraints by entering the desired time period in text box 351 and the desired numerical values ​​in text boxes 352 and 353, respectively. Note that a dropdown list may be displayed in area 35 instead of text boxes 351-353. Furthermore, the constraints that can be entered in area 35 are not limited to those listed above; other constraints may also be available. Other constraints will be discussed later.

[0076] Area 36 displays the string "Objective Function," and also shows a text box 361 for entering the objective function to minimize and a text box 362 for entering the objective function to maximize. The user can specify the objective function by entering the desired string in text boxes 361 and 362, respectively. In other words, in this embodiment, the acquisition unit 11 further acquires information for specifying the objective function as input information.

[0077] In addition, a drop-down list may be displayed in area 36 instead of text boxes 361 and 362. Furthermore, the objective function displayed in area 36, ​​that is, the objective function that can be specified, is not limited to two; it may be one or three or more. Moreover, the information output system 100 may use a pre-specified objective function, in which case the specification for obtaining information to specify the objective function as input information is unnecessary.

[0078] The execution unit 12 performs simulations of the movement of the mobile body 1 and the movement of the objects 2 present in the target area, based on the input information acquired by the acquisition unit 11. Specifically, the execution unit 12 simulates the movement of one or more mobile bodies 1 according to the demand and constraints in the target area by referring to area information and mobile body information. In parallel with the simulation of the movement of one or more mobile bodies 1, the execution unit 12 also simulates the movement of one or more objects 2 by referring to area information.

[0079] The evaluation unit 13 evaluates the service by calculating the optimal solution to the objective function using the results of the simulation performed by the execution unit 12. In this embodiment, the evaluation unit 13 evaluates the simulation results using three indicators: service safety (Risk), service economic rationality (Cost), and service convenience (Value). The safety indicator comprehensively shows risks such as proximity between the mobile body 1 and the target object 2 during service operation. The economic rationality indicator comprehensively shows costs such as the price and fuel costs of the mobile body 1, as well as the costs incurred in operating the service. The convenience indicator comprehensively shows costs such as the number of people transported or goods delivered per day that the service can provide.

[0080] Here, we will explain the relationship between service evaluation indicators such as safety, economic rationality, and convenience, and the parameters acquired as input information, using Figure 4. Figure 4 shows, for example, that (1) information on demand, such as travel demand (flow of people), can affect safety and economic rationality, and (2) information on operations, such as routes, station locations, operating speed, and operating time, can affect safety, economic rationality, and convenience. In other words, the evaluation unit 13 evaluates the results of the simulation performed by the execution unit 12 based on the relationship shown in Figure 4, using parameters from the input information that can affect safety, economic rationality, and convenience.

[0081] Furthermore, in services using mobile devices 1, it is preferable to simultaneously satisfy the aforementioned requirements for safety, economic rationality, and convenience. Here, each service evaluation indicator may have a trade-off relationship; for example, prioritizing safety may reduce economic rationality, and prioritizing economic rationality may reduce safety. Also, as mentioned above, the input information may become parameters used when calculating one or more of the safety, economic rationality, and convenience evaluation indicators, depending on the item. In other words, in the service evaluation simulation, an optimal solution is searched for in which each of the safety, economic rationality, and convenience evaluation indicators, which may have a trade-off relationship, satisfies predetermined conditions as a whole, using input information that may be related to one or more of the safety, economic rationality, and convenience evaluation indicators.

[0082] Here, we will explain an example of service evaluation in the evaluation unit 13. The evaluation unit 13 defines the levels of safety, economic rationality, and convenience based on the input information. Here, the level refers to information corresponding to the level of detail (resolution) of each indicator of safety, economic rationality, and convenience.

[0083] For example, the evaluation unit 13 defines the level of safety based on one of the following: (1) parameters related to the performance of the mobile body 1, (2) functions that complement the performance of the mobile body 1 through remote access, infrastructure, or human intervention, or (3) parameters related to the conditions of the operating environment of the mobile body 1.

[0084] Here, parameters related to the performance of the mobile body 1 include, for example, braking accuracy (response or resolution of the accelerator and brakes), steering control accuracy (response speed or resolution), weight of the mobile body 1, and size.

[0085] Furthermore, functions that complement the performance of mobile unit 1 through remote means, infrastructure, or human intervention include, for example, functions complemented by function monitoring and the parameters that influence its performance. Examples of functions complemented by function monitoring and the parameters that influence its performance include, for example, the presence or absence of functions that remotely assist in detecting video or sensing from mobile unit 1, functions that provide emergency remote operation support and the time required for such emergency operation support (in other words, the time it takes for instructions from the center to reach mobile unit 1), and the presence or absence of assist functions provided by the remote system. Assist functions provided by the remote system include, for example, the field of view that can be checked remotely, or the status of mobile unit 1 (speed, path prediction, sensor failure status, etc.).

[0086] Furthermore, other examples of functions that complement the performance of the mobile body 1 through remote means, infrastructure, or human intervention include functions and performance complemented by infrastructure. Specifically, these include information notified from the roadway regarding approaching objects from the blind spots or distances of the mobile body 1, the status of traffic lights, the amount of information notified from the roadway (speed, object, direction / predicted route, estimated arrival time, etc.), and the granularity of information notified from the roadway (whether pedestrians, bicycles, cars, trucks, etc. can be identified, etc.).

[0087] Another example of a function that complements the performance of mobile unit 1 through remote access, infrastructure, or human intervention is a function that complements it with human intervention. Examples of functions that complement it with human intervention include the skill level of the person remotely monitoring for hazards and the skill level of the person remotely operating the system.

[0088] Next, we will explain an example of a level definition.

[0089] As an example of defining safety levels based on parameters related to the performance of the mobile unit 1 as described above (1), Level A is defined when the mobile unit 1 considers the presence or absence of emergency brakes, and Level B is defined when the mobile unit 1 calculates the effectiveness of emergency brakes according to the weather. By defining safety levels in this way, it becomes possible to judge the risk with higher accuracy at Level B.

[0090] Furthermore, operational efficiency changes depending on whether the remote operator is trained or not, which affects the recovery time of the remotely controlled mobile unit 1 and consequently its efficiency (convenience). For example, if the remote operator is trained, the recovery time of the mobile unit 1 will be shorter, thus increasing efficiency (convenience). In addition, with AI (Artificial Intelligence) assistance for the remote operator, even operators with low remote operation skills may be able to remotely control the mobile unit 1 at the same level as operators with high remote operation skills. Based on the above, as an example of defining levels by functions that complement the performance of the mobile unit 1 through remote operation, infrastructure, or human intervention as described in (2) above, it is conceivable to define levels according to the combination of (I) whether the remote operator is trained or not, and (II) whether or not there is AI assistance for the remote operator.

[0091] Furthermore, the evaluation unit 13 defines the level of economic rationality based on one of the following: (1) the cost of sensors and control devices related to the autonomous driving performance of the mobile unit 1; (2) the cost of remote and infrastructure systems and personnel costs for managing the mobile unit 1; or (3) the cost of the number of mobile units 1 required to enable the service. For example, if only the price of the mobile unit 1 and the price of the remote system are considered as cost-related parameters, it is defined as Level A, while if fluctuations in maintenance costs considering the failure rate of the mobile unit 1 due to weather or regional characteristics (e.g., salt damage near the coast) are also considered, it is defined as Level B.

[0092] Furthermore, the evaluation unit 13 defines the level of convenience based on the quantity of people and goods transported by the automated driving or robot, the accuracy rate, frequency, boarding and alighting, and loading and unloading.

[0093] The evaluation unit 13 then performs an evaluation that outputs an index of convenience based on the trade-off relationship between the performance and cost of the mobile body 1, the trade-off relationship between the functions complemented by the above-mentioned driving environment and infrastructure and the costs required for them, and the above-mentioned levels of safety and economic efficiency.

[0094] Here, we will explain an example of the trade-off between economic rationality, safety, and convenience. For example, the cost can be determined by the type, performance, or number of sensors installed on mobile vehicle 1. In this case, if safety is prioritized, the cost will increase, thus decreasing economic rationality. On the other hand, increased safety will loosen the constraints on the speed or driving environment at which mobile vehicle 1 can operate autonomously, thus increasing convenience. Therefore, the level of economic rationality is defined by the type, performance, and number of sensors on mobile vehicle 1, the level of safety is defined by ensuring safety (e.g., the range of awareness of the surroundings), and the level of convenience is defined by the daily transportation efficiency, etc., and the trade-off relationship is calculated.

[0095] By defining levels as in the example above, it becomes possible to perform service evaluations with an accuracy that meets the needs of the service evaluation. In turn, it becomes possible to adjust the computational load of the simulation to be appropriate according to the needs of the service evaluation.

[0096] Furthermore, the evaluation unit 13 calculates the specified objective function using the simulation execution results by referring to the input information. The evaluation unit 13 then performs the simulation and calculates the objective function while sequentially changing the variables until the optimal solution for the specified objective function is obtained. In other words, the evaluation unit 13 searches for the optimal solution for the specified objective function. For example, if the objective function is to minimize TCO (Total Cost of Ownership) and to maximize the number of deliveries, the evaluation unit 13 repeats the simulation and calculates the objective function until both TCO minimization and the number of deliveries maximization are satisfied. Note that TCO represents the total of the initial costs required when introducing the service and the operating costs required when operating the service.

[0097] The output unit 14 outputs evaluation information relating to the evaluation of the service by the evaluation unit 13. The evaluation information includes at least safety information relating to the safety of the service. The safety information includes the degree to which interference occurs between the moving body 1 and the object 2 in the target area. Interference between the moving body 1 and the object 2 here may include, for example, a situation in which the moving body 1 and the object 2 could collide, a so-called near miss. Furthermore, if the object 2 is another moving body, the interference between the moving body 1 and the object 2 may include a situation in which the moving body 1 and the other moving body face each other directly, requiring mediation.

[0098] Here, we assume that the mobile body 1 is a remotely controlled robot. In this case, the safety information includes not only the degree of interference between the mobile body 1 and the object 2 as described above, but also the degree of remote intervention on the mobile body 1. Remote intervention on the mobile body 1, as referred to here, means, for example, if the mobile body 1 becomes unable to move autonomously due to an unforeseen event, an operator belonging to the service provider remotely controls the mobile body 1 to restore it to a state where it can move autonomously.

[0099] As already mentioned, in this embodiment, the evaluation unit 13 evaluates the results of the simulation performed by the execution unit 12 not only using an indicator of service safety, but also using indicators of service economic rationality and service convenience. Therefore, the output unit 14 outputs not only safety information, but also economic rationality information and convenience information as evaluation information. In other words, the evaluation information includes economic rationality information regarding the economic rationality of the service and convenience information regarding the convenience of the service.

[0100] The output unit 14 outputs evaluation information by displaying an output screen on the display unit 22 of the information terminal 200, for example, as shown in Figure 5. Figure 5 is a diagram showing a basic example of an output screen in the information output system 100 according to the embodiment. As shown in Figure 5, the output screen displayed on the display unit 22 includes an area 41 for displaying safety information, an area 42 for displaying economic rationality information, an area 43 for displaying convenience information, an area 44 for displaying service specifications, and an area 45 for displaying risks regarding the safety of the service.

[0101] Area 41 displays the string "Safety (Risk)," and shows the frequency of near-miss risks and remote intervention risks per day as safety information. Area 42 displays the string "Cost," and shows TCO as economic rationality information. In other words, economic rationality information includes the total initial and operating costs for the service.

[0102] Area 43 displays the string "Convenience (Value)," and shows the number of deliveries per day and the average delivery time as convenience information. Area 44 displays the string "Service Specifications," and shows the number of robots operating in the target area and the robots' speed (in this case, average speed).

[0103] Area 45 displays the text "Risk Map," along with Map A1, which shows the target area, and one or more (in this case, three) markers B1, which indicate the locations where risks occur. In the example shown in Figure 5, the rightmost marker B1 is selected by the user. When marker B1 is selected in this way, a callout B11 is displayed that shows an overview of the risks occurring at the location of marker B1. In other words, the output unit 14 outputs evaluation information by visualizing the locations where risks regarding the safety of services in the target area occur and displaying them on the display unit 22.

[0104] The output screen also displays icon 46, which includes an image of three lines, and icon 47, which includes an image of a right-pointing arrow. The user can select any output screen from a list of other output screen options by, for example, selecting icon 46, and display it on the display unit 22. The user can also select, for example, icon 47, to display other output screens sequentially on the display unit 22. Examples of other output screens will be described later.

[0105] Next, the flow of information when designing and preliminaryly considering a service (mobility service) using the information output system 100 according to the embodiment will be explained with reference to Figure 6. Figure 6 is a sequence diagram showing an example of using the information output system 100 according to the embodiment.

[0106] As shown in Figure 6, first, the preliminary settings in steps S101 to S103 are performed by the service designer or other setting person (in other words, the user). Specifically, the setting person sets various parameters to be used in the simulation while looking at the input screen displayed on the display unit 22 of the information terminal 200, for example. Here, the setting person sets the target area (S101), the traffic volume of the object 2 in the target area (S102), and the variables, constraints, and objective function (S103).

[0107] Here, we list examples of other variables and constraints used to evaluate the service. The evaluation unit 13 does not need to refer to all of the other variables and constraints listed below, but by referring to one or more other variables or one or more other constraints, it can evaluate the service in more detail.

[0108] Other variables used to evaluate the safety of the service may include the acceleration and deceleration performance of the mobile unit 1, or the weight of the mobile unit 1. Other constraints used to evaluate the safety of the service may include the communication bandwidth used during the operation of the service.

[0109] Other variables used to evaluate the economic rationality and convenience of the service may include the cost per mobile unit 1, the performance of the sensors on mobile unit 1, the failure rate of mobile unit 1, or the fuel consumption of mobile unit 1. These other variables may also include the number of personnel involved in the service, or their labor costs. Other constraints used to evaluate the economic rationality and convenience of the service may include the communication bandwidth or communication plan used during service operation.

[0110] Next, the evaluation calculation process in steps S104 and S105 is performed by the information output system 100. Specifically, the information output system 100 acquires information pre-set by the user, i.e., input information, and performs a simulation based on the acquired input information. Then, using the results of the simulation, the information output system 100 calculates an evaluation of the safety of the service, an evaluation of the economic rationality of the service, and an evaluation of the convenience of the service (S104). The information output system 100 also calculates the objective function specified by the acquired input information and performs a search for the optimal solution of the objective function (S105).

[0111] Next, the output processing in steps S106 to S111 is performed by the information output system 100, and the evaluation information is presented to the recipient. The recipient may be the same as the setter, or it may be a different person.

[0112] Here are some examples of service evaluation items. Note that the output unit 14 does not need to output all of the evaluation items listed below as evaluation information, but the more types of evaluation items output, the more detailed the service evaluation will be for the recipient to understand.

[0113] The evaluation items for service safety may include the location and frequency of near-miss risks, the location and frequency of remote intervention risks, or the location and frequency of mediation risks. In addition, these evaluation items may include the number of times object 2 approaches within x cm (x can be set as appropriate) of the entire circumference of mobile body 1, the number of times object 2 approaches within x cm in front of mobile body 1, or TTC (Time To Collision).

[0114] The criteria for evaluating the economic rationality of a service may include initial costs for introducing the service, operating costs for the service, or revenue from the operation of the service. Initial costs may include the purchase / procurement costs of Mobile Unit 1, the costs of sensors installed on Mobile Unit 1, the costs of developing infrastructure in the target area, the costs of initial service verification, the costs of building a remote control center for remotely managing Mobile Unit 1, or the costs of developing software used to operate the service. Operating costs may include the fuel costs of Mobile Unit 1, the personnel costs of those involved in the service, the operating costs of the software, the service maintenance costs, communication costs, or the costs of real estate used to operate the service. Revenue may include usage fees received from businesses using the service, or usage fees received from individuals using the service.

[0115] The evaluation criteria for the convenience of a service may include, in the case of a service that transports users to their destination, the number of trips, the waiting time for users, the reduction in travel time to the destination compared to existing means of transportation, or the accuracy rate indicating the degree to which the mobile entity arrives at its destination accurately. In the case of a service that delivers goods to the requester, the evaluation criteria may include, in the case of a service that delivers goods to the requester, the number of deliveries, the waiting time from the time the requester places an order until the goods arrive, or the accuracy rate indicating the degree to which the goods are delivered accurately to the requester.

[0116] Specifically, the information output system 100 presents the simulation results when the optimal solution for the objective function is obtained (S106). Step S106 corresponds to the process of displaying the output screen shown in Figure 5 on the display unit 22, for example. The information output system 100 also presents the process of searching for the optimal solution for the objective function (S107). Step S107 will be explained in detail in the third example of the output screen (see Figure 10) described later. The information output system 100 also presents multiple evaluations obtained in multiple processes of searching for the optimal solution for the objective function in a manner that allows for comparison (S108). Step S108 will be explained in detail in the fourth example of the output screen (see Figure 11) described later.

[0117] Furthermore, the information output system 100 displays the location of risk occurrence in the target area (S109). Step S109 corresponds to the process of displaying marker B1 on map A1 in the output screen shown in Figure 5, for example. The information output system 100 also displays countermeasures for risks that may occur in the target area (S110). Step S110 will be explained in detail in the first example of the output screen (see Figure 8) described later. Furthermore, the information output system 100 displays the pattern of risk occurrence in the target area using animation (S111). Step S111 will be explained in detail in the first example of the output screen (see Figure 8) described later.

[0118] Furthermore, the setter does not have to perform all of steps S101 to S103; for example, whether or not to perform step S102 is optional. Also, the information output system 100 does not have to perform all of steps S104 to S111; for example, whether or not to perform steps S107 to S111 is optional. In addition, the information output system 100 only needs to calculate the service safety evaluation in step S104; whether or not to calculate the service economic rationality evaluation and the service convenience evaluation is optional.

[0119] Next, the basic operation of the information output system 100 according to the embodiment (in other words, the basic method of the information output method) will be explained using Figure 7. Figure 7 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the information output system 100 according to the embodiment.

[0120] As shown in Figure 7, first, the acquisition unit 11 of the information output system 100 acquires various parameters entered by the user, for example, at the information terminal 200, as input information (S201). Next, the execution unit 12 performs a simulation of the movement of the moving body 1 and the movement of the object 2 based on the input information acquired by the acquisition unit 11 (S202). Next, the evaluation unit 13 calculates an objective function using the results of the simulation performed by the execution unit 12 and evaluates the service (S203).

[0121] If the calculated objective function is not the optimal solution (S204: No), the evaluation unit 13 changes the variables used in the simulation (S205) and has the execution unit 12 run the simulation again. Steps S202 to S205 are repeated until the calculated objective function becomes the optimal solution. If the calculated objective function is the optimal solution (S204: Yes), the output unit 14 outputs evaluation information regarding the service evaluation by the evaluation unit 13 (S206).

[0122] The following are other examples of evaluation information output by the output unit 14.

[0123] Figure 8 shows a first example of the output screen in the information output system 100 according to the embodiment. In the first example, the output screen displayed on the display unit 22 includes an area 45 that displays details of the risk occurrence. The area 45 displays the string "Risk Map," and also displays a map A1 indicating the target area and one or more (in this case, three) markers B1 indicating the location of the risk occurrence. In the example shown in Figure 8, the rightmost marker B1 is selected by the user, and when marker B1 is selected in this way, a callout B11 showing an overview of the risk occurring at the location of marker B1 is further displayed.

[0124] Bubble B11 displays a string of text summarizing the risk, along with two images B112. The left image B112 depicts a moving object 1 (in this case, a car) turning left at an intersection, and an object 2 (in this case, a person) approaching a pedestrian crossing. The right image B112 depicts the moving object 1 and object 2 in a state where they are so close that they are about to touch. In other words, in the first example, the output unit 14 outputs evaluation information by visualizing the manner in which risks regarding the safety of services in the target area occur and displaying it on the display unit 22.

[0125] In the example shown in Figure 8, the two images B112 are still images, but these images B112 may also be moving images (i.e., animations). In other words, the way in which the risk occurs may be displayed on the display unit 22 as an animation.

[0126] Furthermore, the speech bubble B11 displays the string B113, which indicates proposed countermeasures for the risks. In other words, the output unit 14 further outputs countermeasure information indicating measures to address risks regarding the safety of the service in the target area. For example, if the target area is private land owned by the user or the organization to which the user belongs, the user can take action such as installing countermeasures in accordance with the countermeasure information. Alternatively, if the target area is public land, the user can take action such as proposing the installation of countermeasures in accordance with the countermeasure information to the local government or other entity that owns the public land.

[0127] Figure 9 shows a second example of the output screen in the information output system 100 according to the embodiment. In the second example, the output screen displayed on the display unit 22 includes an area 5 that displays the location of risk occurrence and the time-series changes in the service evaluation as an animation. In this embodiment, the output unit 14 displays the output screen of the second example on the display unit 22 after the simulation has been executed, but the output screen of the second example may be displayed on the display unit 22 in real time during the execution of the simulation.

[0128] Area 5 includes Map A2, which shows the target area, and Image 51, which shows the service evaluation, as shown in both Figure 9(a) and (b). Image 51 consists of three vertically arranged display fields. The upper display field shows a score indicating the evaluation of service safety (Risk). A smaller score indicates higher service safety. The interruption display field shows a score indicating the evaluation of service cost. A smaller score indicates higher service cost. The lower display field shows a score indicating the evaluation of service value. A larger score indicates higher service value.

[0129] In area 5, if a risk occurs during the simulation execution process, a circular marker B2 indicating the location of the risk is displayed, as shown in Figure 9(b). In this case, the upper display area of ​​Image 51 shows a relatively large score indicating the evaluation of service safety, and this display area is displayed in a different color from the other display areas. In other words, the output unit 14 outputs evaluation information by highlighting the service evaluation (in this case, the evaluation of service safety) at the time of risk occurrence and displaying it on the display unit 22. Not only the upper display area, but also the interruption display area and the lower display area, i.e., the evaluation of the economic rationality of the service and the evaluation of convenience, can be highlighted. Furthermore, the trigger for highlighting the service evaluation is, for example, when the score exceeds (or falls below) a threshold.

[0130] Figure 10 shows a third example of the output screen in the information output system 100 according to the embodiment. In the third example, the output screen displayed on the display unit 22 includes areas 61 and 62 as areas 6 that display the service evaluation for each simulation performed until the optimal solution of the objective function is calculated, as shown in Figure 10(a). In other words, the evaluation information includes information about multiple search processes of the simulation performed until the optimal solution of the objective function is calculated. Note that the third example shows the results of a simulation performed in order to maximize the evaluation of service safety as the objective function.

[0131] Region 61 displays a 3D graph with axes representing the evaluation of service safety (Risk), service economic rationality (Cost), and service convenience (Value). Region 62 displays a bar representing the overall service evaluation (M) using varying shades of gray. Points P1 to P9 are plotted on the 3D graph, indicating the service evaluation results for each simulation. In other words, the simulations were executed in the order of points P1, P2, ..., P9, and point P9 represents the calculation of the optimal solution for the objective function during the execution of the simulation. The coordinates of points P1 to P9 represent the evaluations of service safety, economic rationality, and convenience. The shades of gray at points P1 to P9 represent the overall service evaluation. The darker the shade at points P1 to P9, the higher the overall service evaluation.

[0132] In area 61, if the user has selected any of points P1 to P9, a callout 63 will be displayed. Callout 63 will display the service specifications for the point selected by the user, i.e., the simulation selected by the user (in this case, the number of mobile units 1, the speed of mobile units 1, and the service operation mode).

[0133] The output screen shown in Figure 10(b) includes area 7, which individually displays the trends in the evaluation of service safety, economic rationality, convenience, and overall evaluation. Area 7 includes area 71 showing the trend in the evaluation of service safety, area 72 showing the trend in the evaluation of economic rationality, area 73 showing the trend in the evaluation of convenience, and area 74 showing the trend in the overall evaluation. In each of areas 71 to 74, the vertical axis represents the evaluation, and the horizontal axis represents the order (step) in which the simulation was executed. The output screen shown in Figure 10(b) is accessed, for example, when the output screen shown in Figure 10(a) is displayed on the display unit 22, by the user performing a predetermined operation (for example, selecting area 61).

[0134] Figure 11 shows a fourth example of the output screen in the information output system according to the embodiment. In the fourth example, the output screen displayed on the display unit 22 includes an area 8 that displays a list of service evaluations for each simulation performed until the optimal solution of the objective function is calculated. In other words, the output unit 14 outputs evaluation information by displaying multiple evaluations calculated in each of the multiple search processes on the display unit 22 in a manner that allows for comparison.

[0135] Area 8 displays Area 1 81, which shows the service evaluation results from the first simulation, and Area 2 82, which shows the service evaluation results from the second simulation. Areas 81 and 82 display bar graphs showing the evaluation of service safety, service economic rationality, and service convenience, respectively, as well as a score showing the overall service evaluation.

[0136] Although the area showing the service evaluation results from the third and subsequent simulations is not shown in Figure 11, it can be displayed on the display unit 22 by the user performing a predetermined operation.

[0137] As described above, the information output method and information output system 100 according to the embodiment perform simulations of the movement of the mobile body 1 and the movement of the object 2 present in the target area. Then, the safety of the service is evaluated using the simulation results, and evaluation information including the evaluation is output. Therefore, those who conduct preliminary studies when operating the service can, by checking the evaluation information, conduct preliminary studies of mobility services that take safety into consideration in areas (target areas) where it is permitted for objects (object 2) to enter the movement path of the mobile body 1. This can reduce, for example, the cost and time required for service design. Furthermore, it can simplify, for example, the design of the service.

[0138] (Other embodiments) The information output method and information output system 100 relating to one or more embodiments of this disclosure have been described above based on embodiments, but this disclosure is not limited to these embodiments. Without departing from the spirit of this disclosure, various modifications that a person skilled in the art can conceive of may be applied to each embodiment, and forms constructed by combining components from different embodiments may also be included within the scope of one or more embodiments of this disclosure.

[0139] For example, the evaluation information may include content corresponding to the type of recipient to whom the service evaluation is presented. In other words, the output unit 14 may change the content it outputs depending on the recipient to whom the service evaluation is presented. Figure 12 is a diagram showing an example of the correlation between the type of recipient to whom the service evaluation is presented and the content of the output. As shown in Figure 12, the type of recipient (referred to as "type of recipient" in Figure 12) includes decision-makers regarding the adoption of the service, service planners and designers, business planners and designers using the service, or service operators.

[0140] For example, if the recipient is a decision-maker, the information necessary to decide whether or not to adopt the service will be output from the output unit 14 as evaluation information. Specifically, as shown in Figure 12, the output unit 14 outputs the following as evaluation information: safety information, including the "risk of serious accidents" that may occur during the operation of the service; economic rationality information, including the "total initial costs / operating costs" and the "expected revenue" from the operation of the service; and convenience information, including an "overview of the value that the service can provide."

[0141] The content of the evaluation information output by the output unit 14 may be customized by the user according to the type of recipient, or it may be automatically determined by the information output system 100. In the latter case, the user inputs, for example, the type of recipient. The information output system 100 then determines the content of the evaluation information output by comparing the type of recipient, which is the input information, with the data shown in Figure 12. Furthermore, the levels of safety, economic rationality, and convenience mentioned above may be set appropriately according to the type of recipient.

[0142] In this embodiment, the evaluation information includes, but is not limited to, safety information, economic rationality information, and convenience information. For example, the evaluation information may include only safety information. In this case, the evaluation unit 13 may fix the parameters related to the economic rationality of the service and the parameters related to the convenience of the service, then search for a variable setting range for the safety parameters and evaluate safety.

[0143] In this embodiment, the information output system 100 is constructed as a dedicated system for each type of service, but is not limited to this. For example, the information output system 100 may be constructed as a general-purpose system in which the type of service can be selected as part of the constraints. In this case, the information output system 100 operates according to the type of service selected by the user. Specifically, if the user is conducting a preliminary study of a service that transports people to a destination, the user selects that service as the type of service. Then, the information output system 100 will operate as a system that outputs evaluation information for the service that transports people to a destination.

[0144] For example, this disclosure can be implemented as a program that causes a processor to execute the steps included in the information output method. Furthermore, this disclosure can be implemented as a non-temporary computer-readable recording medium, such as a CD-ROM, on which the program is recorded.

[0145] For example, if this disclosure is implemented in a program (software), each step is executed by the program using hardware resources such as the computer's CPU, memory, and input / output circuits. In other words, each step is executed by the CPU obtaining data from memory or input / output circuits, performing calculations, and outputting the calculation results to memory or input / output circuits.

[0146] In the above embodiment, each component included in the information output system 100 may be implemented by dedicated hardware or by executing a software program suitable for each component. Each component may also be implemented by a program execution unit such as a CPU or processor reading and executing a software program recorded on a recording medium such as a hard disk or semiconductor memory.

[0147] Some or all of the functions of the information output system 100 according to the above embodiment are typically implemented as an LSI, which is an integrated circuit. These may be individually integrated onto a single chip, or some or all of them may be integrated onto a single chip. Furthermore, the integrated circuit implementation is not limited to an LSI; it may also be implemented using a dedicated circuit or a general-purpose processor. An FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) that can be programmed after the LSI is manufactured, or a reconfigurable processor that can reconfigure the connections and settings of the circuit cells inside the LSI may also be used.

[0148] Furthermore, the disclosure also includes various modifications of each embodiment of the disclosure that are within the scope of what a person skilled in the art can conceive, as long as they do not deviate from the spirit of the disclosure. [Industrial applicability]

[0149] This disclosure is applicable to systems that provide mobility services. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0150] 1 Mobile Unit 2. Object 100 Information Output System 11 Acquisition Department 12 Execution Unit 13 Evaluation Department 14 Output section 22 Display section

Claims

1. A method for outputting information performed by a computer, Area information relating to the target area where a service using a mobile vehicle carrying people or goods is provided, and mobile vehicle information relating to the said mobile vehicle are acquired as input information, Based on the input information, a simulation of the movement of the moving body and the movement of objects present in the target area is performed. The service is evaluated by calculating the optimal solution of the objective function using the results of the simulation. Output evaluation information relating to the evaluation of the service, which includes at least safety information relating to the safety of the service. The safety information includes the degree to which interference occurs between the moving object and the target object in the target area. The aforementioned mobile body is remotely controllable, The safety information includes the degree to which remote interventions on the mobile body occur. Information output method.

2. A method for outputting information performed by a computer, Area information relating to the target area where a service using a mobile vehicle carrying people or goods is provided, and mobile vehicle information relating to the said mobile vehicle are acquired as input information, Based on the input information, a simulation of the movement of the moving body and the movement of objects present in the target area is performed. The service is evaluated by calculating the optimal solution of the objective function using the results of the simulation. Output evaluation information relating to the evaluation of the service, which includes at least safety information relating to the safety of the service. The safety information includes the degree to which interference occurs between the moving object and the target object in the target area. The evaluation information further includes economic rationality information relating to the economic rationality of the service, The aforementioned economic rationality information includes the total of the initial costs and operating costs for the aforementioned service. Information output method.

3. The aforementioned mobile body is remotely controllable, The safety information includes the degree to which remote interventions on the mobile body occur. The information output method according to claim 2.

4. The area information includes information regarding the traffic volume of the object in the target area. The information output method according to claim 1 or 2.

5. The mobile information includes information about the type of mobile, the speed of the mobile, and the number of mobiles operating in the target area. The information output method according to claim 1 or 2.

6. The evaluation information is output by visualizing the patterns of risk occurrences regarding the safety of the service in the target area and displaying them on the display unit. The information output method according to claim 1 or 2.

7. The manner in which the aforementioned risk occurs is displayed on the display unit as an animation. The information output method according to claim 6.

8. The evaluation information is output by visualizing the location of risks related to the safety of the service in the target area and displaying it on the display unit. The information output method according to claim 1 or 2.

9. The evaluation of the service at the time the aforementioned risk occurs is highlighted and displayed on the display unit, thereby outputting the evaluation information. The information output method according to claim 8.

10. Further outputting countermeasures information indicating measures to address risks regarding the safety of the service in the aforementioned target area. The information output method according to claim 1 or 2.

11. The evaluation information further includes economic rationality information relating to the economic rationality of the service. The information output method according to claim 1.

12. The aforementioned economic rationality information includes the total of the initial costs and operating costs for the aforementioned service. The information output method according to claim 11.

13. The evaluation information further includes convenience information regarding the convenience of the service, The information output method according to claim 1 or 2.

14. The evaluation information includes information about multiple search processes of the simulation that were carried out until the optimal solution of the objective function was calculated. The information output method according to claim 1 or 2.

15. The evaluation information is output by displaying the multiple evaluations calculated in each of the above-mentioned multiple search processes on the display unit in a manner that allows for comparison. The information output method according to claim 14.

16. The aforementioned evaluation information includes content that changes depending on the type of recipient to whom the evaluation of the aforementioned service is presented. The information output method according to claim 1 or 2.

17. The types of recipients mentioned above include decision-makers regarding the adoption of the service, planners and designers of the service, planners and designers of businesses using the service, or operators of the service. The information output method according to claim 16.

18. Further information for specifying the objective function is obtained as input information. The information output method according to claim 1 or 2.

19. On the computer, The information output method described in claim 1 or 2 is executed. program.

20. An acquisition unit that acquires, at least as input information, area information relating to the target area where a service using a mobile vehicle carrying people or goods is provided, and mobile vehicle information relating to the said mobile vehicle. An execution unit performs a simulation of the movement of the moving body and the movement of objects present in the target area based on the input information acquired by the acquisition unit. An evaluation unit evaluates the service by calculating the optimal solution of the objective function using the results of the simulation performed by the execution unit, The system includes an output unit that outputs evaluation information relating to the evaluation of the service by the evaluation unit, which includes at least safety information relating to the safety of the service, The safety information includes the degree to which interference occurs between the moving object and the target object in the target area. The aforementioned mobile body is remotely controllable, The safety information includes the degree to which remote interventions on the mobile body occur. Information output system.

21. An acquisition unit that acquires, at least as input information, area information relating to a target area where a service using a mobile body carrying a person or delivered goods is performed, and mobile body information relating to the mobile body, An execution unit performs a simulation of the movement of the moving body and the movement of objects present in the target area based on the input information acquired by the acquisition unit. An evaluation unit evaluates the service by calculating the optimal solution of the objective function using the results of the simulation performed by the execution unit, The system includes an output unit that outputs evaluation information relating to the evaluation of the service by the evaluation unit, which includes at least safety information relating to the safety of the service, The safety information includes the degree to which interference occurs between the moving object and the target object in the target area. The evaluation information further includes economic rationality information relating to the economic rationality of the service, The aforementioned economic rationality information includes the total of the initial costs and operating costs for the aforementioned service. Information output system.

Images