Information processing device, information processing method, and program

Abstract

Considering the constraints of various communication network lines, the communication line is switched for each application. [Solution] The information processing device is an information processing device that moves with the vehicle and comprises: a communication line management unit that acquires line information for each of a plurality of usable lines and defines each of the lines based on the acquired line information; a communication switching control unit that selects which of the lines defined by the communication line management unit to use to perform information communication for each information communication used to realize a function in the vehicle; and a communication control unit that performs the information communication using the line selected by the communication switching control unit.

Description

Technical Field

[0005]

[0001] The present invention relates to an information processing apparatus, an information processing method, and a program.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, in order for an information communication terminal such as a smartphone to achieve stable communication, there has been a demand to select and switch to an optimal communication network based on the communication quality status of the current location and the like. In order to meet such a demand, a technique for appropriately switching the connection destination network has been disclosed (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] Here, in recent years, information communication terminals have pre-installed eSIM (embedded SIM) and can hold a plurality of communication network lines. Furthermore, in recent years, with the diversification of line subscribers and the expansion of usage targets such as satellite communication, lines with bandwidth constraints have emerged. Considering the constraints on such a variety of communication network lines, there is a demand for switching communication lines for each application, but it has not been easy to achieve.

[0005] The present invention has been made in consideration of such circumstances, and an object thereof is to provide an information processing apparatus, an information processing method, and a program capable of switching communication lines for each application in consideration of constraints on a variety of communication network lines.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] (1) One aspect of the present invention is an information processing device that moves with a vehicle, wherein for each information communication used to realize a function in the vehicle, Multiple available network Which of the following lines A communication switching control unit that selects whether to perform information communication using a certain line, and a communication control unit that performs the information communication using the line selected by the communication switching control unit, are provided. The communication switching control unit selects a connection method via satellite when the information communication is intended to use AI. It is an information processing device.

[0007] (2) In addition, one aspect of the present invention is An information processing device that moves with a vehicle, comprising: a communication switching control unit that selects which of a plurality of available lines to use to perform information communication for each information communication used to realize a function in the vehicle; and a communication control unit that performs the information communication using the line selected by the communication switching control unit, wherein the vehicle is a vehicle as an ICT terminal having a plurality of sensors, and the communication switching control unit selects a line using a connection method that does not incur communication charges for the user of the vehicle when the information communication is for the purpose of transmitting information detected by the sensors, That is the case.

[0008] (3) Another aspect of the present invention is An information processing device that moves with a vehicle, comprising: a communication switching control unit that selects which of a plurality of available lines to use to perform information communication for each information communication used to realize a function in the vehicle; and a communication control unit that performs the information communication using the line selected by the communication switching control unit, wherein the communication switching control unit selects a line according to the importance of the software update in the case of information communication for the purpose of updating the software that drives the vehicle. That is the case.

[0009] (4) In addition, one aspect of the present invention is an information processing device in any of the above-described information processing devices (1) to (3), The system further includes a communication line management unit that acquires line information for each of the multiple available lines and defines each line based on the acquired line information, and a communication switching control unit that selects which of the lines defined by the communication line management unit will be used to perform information communication. .

[0010] (5) In addition, one aspect of the present invention is an information processing device in any of the above-described information processing devices (1) to (4), The lines managed by the aforementioned communication line management unit and switched by the aforementioned communication switching control unit include cellular lines, wireless LAN (Local Area Network) lines, and satellite-based connection lines. It is.

[0011] (6) In addition, one aspect of the present invention is an information processing device in any of the above-described (1) to (5), The lines managed by the aforementioned communication line management unit and switched by the aforementioned communication switching control unit include multiple cellular lines provided by multiple carriers. It is.

[0012] (7) In addition, one aspect of the present invention is an information processing device in any of the above-described information processing devices (1) to (6), The aforementioned communication line management unit defines the lines managed by the communication line management unit and switched by the communication switching control unit, including cellular lines, by the subscriber ID, which includes the carrier number of the contract profile in the pre-installed eSIM (embedded SIM), and the communication service ID, which indicates the contracted communication service. It is.

[0013] (8) In addition, one aspect of the present invention is an information processing device in any of the above-described information processing devices (1) to (7), If the communication line management unit manages the lines that the communication line management unit manages and the communication switching control unit switches, the communication line management unit defines the lines using the SSID within the module that provides information communication using the wireless LAN standard. It is.

[0014] (9) In addition, one aspect of the present invention is an information processing device in any of the above-described information processing devices (1) to (8), If the communications line management unit manages the communications line management unit and the communications switching control unit switches a line using a satellite connection method, the communications line management unit defines the line using the unique identification number of the module for performing the satellite connection method. It is.

[0015] (10) Also, one aspect of the present invention is in any of the information processing apparatuses described in (1) to (9) above, The aforementioned communication switching control unit selects to perform information communication without using a satellite connection method in the case of information communication for infotainment purposes. is as follows.

[0016] (11) Also, one aspect of the present invention is in any of the information processing apparatuses described in (1) to (10) above, The communication switching control unit, in the case of information communication for the purpose of emergency notification, selects, as first priority, to perform information communication using a cellular connection method, and as second priority, to select a connection method via satellite. is as follows.

[0017] (12) Also, one aspect of the present invention is in any of the information processing apparatuses described in (1) to (11) above, The aforementioned vehicle is a vehicle capable of autonomous driving, and the communication switching control unit, in the case of information communication for the purpose of transmitting information necessary for autonomous driving, selects as its first priority to perform information communication using a line with low latency, and if information communication using the line selected as the first priority fails, selects as its second priority to perform information communication using the line with the next lowest latency. is as follows.

[0018] (13) Also, one aspect of the present invention is an information processing method using an information processing apparatus that moves together with a vehicle, wherein for each information communication used to realize a function in the vehicle, Multiple available line Which of the following lines a communication switching control step of selecting whether to execute information communication using the line, and a communication control step of performing the information communication using the line selected by the communication switching control step, Furthermore, in the case of information communication intended to use AI, the communication switching control process selects a connection method via satellite. is an information processing method. (14) Another aspect of the present invention is an information processing method using an information processing device that moves with a vehicle, comprising: a communication switching control step of selecting which of a plurality of available lines to use to perform information communication for each information communication used to realize a function in the vehicle; and a communication control step of performing the information communication using the line selected by the communication switching control step, wherein the vehicle is a vehicle as an ICT terminal having a plurality of sensors, and the communication switching control step, in the case of information communication aimed at transmitting information detected by the sensors, selects a line with a connection method that does not incur communication charges for the user of the vehicle. (15) Another aspect of the present invention is an information processing method using an information processing device that moves with a vehicle, comprising: a communication switching control step of selecting which of a plurality of available lines to use to perform information communication for each information communication used to realize a function in the vehicle; and a communication control step of performing the information communication using the line selected by the communication switching control step, wherein the communication switching control step, in the case of information communication for the purpose of updating the software that drives the vehicle, selects a line according to the importance of the software update.

[0019] (16) Another aspect of the present invention is a program for causing a computer to execute any of the information processing methods described in (13) to (15) above.

Advantages of the Invention

[0020] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an information processing apparatus, an information processing method, and a program capable of switching communication lines for each application in consideration of restrictions on various communication network lines.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0021] [Figure 1] It is a diagram showing an outline of the system according to the present embodiment. [Figure 2] It is a first flowchart for explaining the information processing method according to the present embodiment. [Figure 3]This is a second flowchart illustrating the information processing method according to this embodiment. [Figure 4] This is a third flowchart illustrating the information processing method according to this embodiment. [Figure 5] This diagram illustrates the definition of a communication line according to this embodiment. [Figure 6] This diagram illustrates the state transitions according to this embodiment. [Figure 7] This diagram illustrates an example of the priority order for each type of communication according to this embodiment. [Figure 8] This is a diagram illustrating the definition of communication according to this embodiment. [Figure 9] This block diagram shows an example of the internal configuration of the information processing device according to this embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0022] [Embodiment] The information processing apparatus, information processing method, and program according to aspects of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the attached drawings, with reference to preferred embodiments. It should be noted that the aspects of the present invention are not limited to these embodiments, and include various modifications and improvements. In other words, the components described below include those that are easily conceivable to those skilled in the art, and those that are substantially the same, and the components described below can be combined as appropriate. Furthermore, various omissions, substitutions, or modifications of components can be made without departing from the spirit of the present invention. Also, in the following drawings, the scale and number of components in each structure may differ from the scale and number of components in the actual structure in order to make each structure easier to understand.

[0023] [system] Figure 1 is a diagram illustrating the schematic of the system according to this embodiment. First, System 1 will be described with reference to this figure. System 1 comprises an information processing device 10 and an information processing device 20. The information processing device 10 is envisioned as a device that moves with the vehicle, such as a smartphone or an in-vehicle ICT device. The information processing device 20 may also be a smartphone or an in-vehicle ICT device, similar to the information processing device 10, or it may be a server device. The information processing device 20 does not need to move with the vehicle.

[0024] Information processing device 10 and information processing device 20 are connected to each other via predetermined lines. The figure shows network NW1 to network NW6 as an example of the lines connecting information processing device 10 and information processing device 20. Thus, information processing device 10 and information processing device are connected to each other by multiple types of lines. Which of these lines is used is set according to, for example, the type of application used by information processing device 10. The figure shows first application APP11 to fifth application APP15 as an example of an application used by information processing device 10. First application APP11 to fifth application APP15 correspond to counterpart first application APP21 to counterpart fifth application APP25, which are examples of applications used by information processing device 20.

[0025] [Information Processing Device] The information processing device 10 comprises at least a communication switching control unit 11, a communication line management unit 12, a communication quality acquisition unit 13, a communication control unit 14, a plurality of communication devices 15, and a storage unit 16. Each of these functional units is implemented, for example, using electronic circuits. Each functional unit may also be equipped with internal storage means such as semiconductor memory or magnetic hard disk drives, as needed. Furthermore, each function may be implemented by a computer having a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and software. Furthermore, all or part of each functional unit may be implemented using hardware such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), PLD (Programmable Logic Device), or FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) (e.g., circuitry). Alternatively, all or part of each functional unit may be implemented through a combination of software and hardware.

[0026] Furthermore, all or part of the functions of the information processing device 10 may be implemented using external accelerators such as CPUs, GPUs, or hardware installed on external devices such as cloud servers. All or part of the functions of the information processing device 10 may be configured to improve processing speed by using, for example, a high-performance GPU or dedicated hardware on a cloud server. In addition, the information processing device 10 may consist of multiple devices (computers), and each functional block may be distributed among multiple devices.

[0027] The communication switching control unit 11 selects which of the available lines the information processing device 10 will use to perform information communication. The lines available to the information processing device 10 are defined lines for each information communication used to realize the functions of the vehicle in which the information processing device 10 moves. The definition of the lines is performed by the communication line management unit 12. Details of the communication line management unit 12 will be described later. Specifically, the lines available to the information processing device 10 are networks NW1 to NW6 in the illustrated example.

[0028] The communication line management unit 12 acquires line information for each of the multiple lines available to the information processing device 10. Based on the acquired line information, the communication line management unit 12 defines each line. Here, the lines managed by the communication line management unit 12 and switched by the communication switching control unit 11 include cellular lines. Cellular lines may include multiple cellular lines provided by multiple carriers. In addition, the lines managed by the communication line management unit 12 and switched by the communication switching control unit 11 may include lines using the wireless LAN (Local Area Network) standard. Specific examples of wireless LAN lines include well-known communication methods such as Wi-Fi (registered trademark). Furthermore, the lines managed by the communication line management unit 12 and switched by the communication switching control unit 11 may also include lines using satellite-based connection methods. Specific examples of satellite-based connection methods include Starlink Direct, a connection method using D2C (Direct to Cell) satellites provided by Starlink (registered trademark).

[0029] If a cellular network is included, the communication line management unit 12 may define the network using the subscriber ID, which includes the carrier number of the contract profile, and the communication service ID, which indicates the contracted communication service, within the eSIM (embedded SIM) pre-installed on the information processing device 10. The communication service ID may be defined, for example, by the APN for 4G communication, the DNN for 5G communication, or S-NSSAI. Here, the SIM profiles stored in the eSIM may vary from time to time, and the order in which the SIM profiles are stored may not be fixed. In this case, the communication line management unit 12 can correctly distinguish and manage SIM profiles by maintaining a set of configuration information (e.g., profile descriptors) related to the SIM profiles on a country-by-country basis and comparing it with this configuration information when reading a SIM profile. Note that the reading of the SIM profile may occur at startup or when an event occurs during startup. Note that the profile descriptors as configuration information can distinguish and manage SIM profiles by having a reference priority and profile conditions (mainly a PLMN-ID list and an IMSI range list).

[0030] Furthermore, to support DSDS (Dual SIM Dual Standby) and DSDA (Dual SIM Dual Active), it may be possible to specify the hardware (e.g., cellular modem) and software (e.g., state transitions described later) associated with the loaded SIM profile. In addition, in order to correctly distinguish and manage multi-PDN connections within a given line, the profile descriptor or communication line descriptor may contain PDN configuration information (session descriptor). Considering future expandability, it is preferable to refer to the 3GPP® specification (URSP: UE Route Selection Policy) for the session descriptor.

[0031] Furthermore, if a wireless LAN standard is included, the communication line management unit 12 may define the line by the SSID within the module that provides information communication using the wireless LAN standard (which may be a so-called Wi-Fi® module, etc.). Specifically, when performing a Wi-Fi scan, the communication line management unit 12 reads the configuration information (e.g., profile descriptor) in the Wi-Fi profile and performs matching and verification of the SSID / PASS, thereby enabling it to correctly recognize the Wi-Fi line.

[0032] If the connection method includes a satellite connection, the communication line management unit 12 may define the line by the unique identification number of the module for performing the satellite connection. It may also be possible to link it to the configuration information (e.g., profile descriptor) of the main line contracted by the vehicle sales manufacturer. In this case, the communication line management unit 12 can define multiple communication line descriptors in the configuration information (e.g., profile descriptor). It is preferable that the communication line management unit 12 be able to specify the hardware (satellite modem) and software (state transitions) to which the loaded satellite profile is linked.

[0033] Furthermore, in other embodiments, if a connection method via satellite is included, the communication line management unit 12 may define the line by including hardware (cellular modem) and software (state transitions) in the cellular profile. Such embodiments can be applied to connection methods using D2C satellites such as Starlink®.

[0034] The communication quality acquisition unit 13 acquires the communication quality of the lines available to the information processing device 10. The communication quality acquisition unit 13 acquires the communication quality of the lines from the communication device 15 and transmits the acquired information to the communication line management unit 12. In addition, information on lines available to the information processing device 10 is stored in the storage unit 16 for each line, and the communication line management unit 12 and the communication quality acquisition unit 13 may refer to the line information stored in the storage unit 16 as appropriate. The figure shows line information 16-1 to 16-3 as an example of line information stored in the storage unit 16. Note that the status included in the line information may be Wi-Fi SSID and password, etc.

[0035] The communication control unit 14 performs information communication using the line selected by the communication switching control unit 11. Alternatively, the communication switching control unit 11 can set the line switching to the communication control unit 14, and the communication control unit 14 can perform information communication using the switched line.

[0036] [Information Processing Methods] Next, a series of steps in the information processing method according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 2 and 3.

[0037] Figure 2 is a first flowchart illustrating the information processing method according to this embodiment. First, with reference to the figure, we will explain the sequence of events (call flow) from when the information processing device 10 is started up until the initial communication line is determined. The sequence of events shown in the figure is executed, for example, when the information processing device 10 is started up and when line information is added.

[0038] (Step S11) First, triggered by the information processing device 10 starting up or line information being added, the communication switching control unit 11 sends a signal to the communication line management unit 12 to start communication line management.

[0039] (Step S12) When the communication line management unit 12 receives a signal to activate communication line management, it obtains line information for lines that can be used by the information processing device 10. The communication line management unit 12 may query the communication device 15 to obtain line information, and the communication device 15 may obtain the line information by accessing the storage unit 16 (Step S12a). Alternatively, the communication line management unit 12 may obtain the line information by directly accessing the storage unit 16 (Step S12b). Step S12 is repeated for each line of information.

[0040] (Step S13) Next, the communication line management unit 12 defines the communication line. Details of the communication line definition will be explained with reference to Figure 5.

[0041] Figure 5 is a diagram illustrating the definition of a communication line according to this embodiment. The figure shows an example of configuration information stored in the information processing device 10. This configuration information may be prepared separately for each destination. The communication line management unit 12 performs matching with this configuration information when reading the SIM profile.

[0042] In the diagram, the left shows an example of a profile descriptor. Specifically, the items of a profile descriptor include "reference priority," "profile ID," "profile conditions," and "HW / SW status." In the diagram, the upper right shows an example of a first communication line descriptor. Specifically, the items of the first communication line descriptor include "line ID," "PLMN-ID," "SW status priority," "area information," and "control signal." In addition, multiple session descriptors can be associated with a communication line descriptor. Specifically, the items of a session descriptor include "Session ID," "SSC Mode," "S-NSSAIs," "DNNs / APNs," "PDU session type," and "Preferred access type." In the diagram, the lower right shows an example of a second communication line descriptor. Specifically, the items of the second communication line descriptor are the same as those of the first communication line descriptor. The values ​​of each item are descriptions specific to each line. Note that the first communication line descriptor is an example for cellular connections, and the second communication line descriptor is an example for satellite connections.

[0043] (Step S14) Returning to Figure 2, we continue the explanation of the sequence of events. The communication line management unit 12 constructs the state transitions of the communication line. Details of the state transitions will be explained with reference to Figure 6.

[0044] Figure 6 is a diagram illustrating the state transitions according to this embodiment. The concept of state transitions performed by the communication line management unit 12 will be explained with reference to this figure. First, as a premise, there are as many types of state transitions as there are definitions of software states. In the case of DSDS, there are a total of two types of state transitions: one for cellular and one for Wi-Fi. In the case of DSDA, there are a total of three types of state transitions: two for cellular and one for Wi-Fi. The figure shows an example of a state transition after the SIM profile has been read (in the case of DSDS).

[0045] In the diagram, the upward arrow on the left shows an example of a transition when the conditions are met and the system switches to a line with higher reference priority. This is not limited to a single-line transition; it is also possible to skip two or more lines at once. Similarly, the downward arrow on the right shows an example of a transition when the conditions are not met and the system switches to a line with lower reference priority. This is not limited to a single-line transition; it is also possible to skip two or more lines at once.

[0046] As an example of state transitions within a network, there are basically two states (OK or NG). If area information is available, there are three or more states. For example, in a specific implementation, there may be three states: "OK" and "NG", plus "NG approaching". The transitions between each state are determined by communication quality evaluation within the information processing device 20 and instructions from the network.

[0047] As an example of state transitions between lines, if prior information is available, such as area information, it is possible to skip two or more lines. Furthermore, state transitions may be triggered by the execution of applications with high urgency and importance. Specific examples of such transitions will be described later under "[Examples of various communication line combinations and switching methods]".

[0048] (Step S15) Returning to Figure 2, the explanation of the sequence of events continues. The communication line management unit 12 configures the lines based on the state transitions of the communication lines established in step S14. Specifically, the communication line management unit 12 configures the lines in order of priority based on the state transitions of the communication lines established in step S14.

[0049] (Step S16) After the line setup, the communication line management unit 12 obtains the communication quality from the communication device 15. Furthermore, if the communication line management unit 12 can obtain area information representing the communication quality of the line from the information processing device 20, it may obtain the area information using a control signal.

[0050] (Step S17) Furthermore, the communication line management unit 12 updates the communication line status based on the communication quality obtained from the communication device 15 and, if available, area information. If the communication line status is below a predetermined quality (e.g., connection not established), the process returns to step S15, and the communication line management unit 12 continues to configure lines in order of priority until a connectable line is found.

[0051] (Step S18) After a connectable line is found, the communication line management unit 12 reports to the communication switching control unit 11 that startup is complete. Preferably, the startup completion report includes the communication line status.

[0052] (Step S19) The communication switching control unit 11 performs route selection for each communication (i.e., for each application). This route selection may be to associate connectable lines with applications.

[0053] (Step S20) The communication switching control unit 11 notifies the communication control unit 14 of the selected communication route and sets the communication route. Thereafter, the communication control unit 14 selects the line to be used for each application based on the set communication route.

[0054] Figure 3 is a second flowchart illustrating the information processing method according to this embodiment. Next, the periodically executed processes and the series of steps leading up to the start of communication (call flow) will be explained with reference to the same figure. The series of steps shown in the figure are executed periodically, for example.

[0055] (Step S30) First, the communication switching control unit 11 grasps the current line status.

[0056] (Step S31) The communication switching control unit 11 notifies the communication line management unit 12 of the current line status it has grasped and updates it.

[0057] (Step S32) The communication line management unit 12 queries the communication quality acquisition unit 13 to acquire the communication quality. The communication quality acquisition unit 13 acquires the communication quality of each line from the communication device 15.

[0058] (Step S33) The communication line management unit 12 updates the communication line status based on the acquired communication quality. Steps S32 and S33 are performed for each valid radio.

[0059] (Step S34) After acquiring the communication quality for each valid radio and updating the communication line status, the communication line management unit 12 notifies the communication switching control unit 11 of the results of updating the communication line status.

[0060] (Step S35) The communication switching control unit 11 determines whether or not to switch the communication line based on the updated communication line status.

[0061] (Step S36) When switching communication lines, the communication switching control unit 11 selects a route for each communication.

[0062] (Step S37) The communication switching control unit 11 configures the communication route based on the selected route. This configuration includes deleting the communication line route that is to be disabled.

[0063] (Step S38) The communication switching control unit 11 updates the communication line status to the communication line management unit 12. Here, as a specific example, we will describe an example in which network NW-1 becomes invalid.

[0064] (Step S39) As a result of updating the communication line status, when the communication line management unit 12 receives switching decision information from the communication switching control unit 11 that network NW-1 is invalid, the communication line management unit 12 transmits the information to the communication device 15-1 and switches to the line with the next highest priority after network NW-1.

[0065] (Step S40) After switching the line, the communication line management unit 12 acquires the communication quality after the line switch. Furthermore, if the communication line management unit 12 can acquire area information representing the communication quality of the line from the information processing device 20, it may acquire the area information using a control signal.

[0066] (Step S41) The communication line management unit 12 updates the communication line status based on the acquired communication quality and, if available, area information.

[0067] (Step S42) The communication line management unit 12 notifies the communication switching control unit 11 of the result of updating the communication line status. That is, the communication line management unit 12 notifies the communication switching control unit 11 that the trajectory has been completed.

[0068] (Step S43) The communication switching control unit 11 performs route selection for each communication (i.e., for each application). This process is the same as the process in step S19 described above.

[0069] (Step S44) The communication switching control unit 11 notifies the communication control unit 14 of the selected communication route and sets the communication route. This process is the same as the process in step S20 described above.

[0070] Figure 4 is a third flowchart illustrating the information processing method according to this embodiment. Referring to this figure, a series of processes (call flow) for realizing communication for emergency calls will be explained. The series of processes shown in the figure are executed, for example, triggered by an execution request from the application shown in step S50.

[0071] (Step S50) The call flow shown in the figure is initiated in response to a request from the app. When the communication switching control unit 11 receives a request from the app, it proceeds to step S51. Here, in the flow described below, we will continue the explanation assuming that the request from the app was for emergency communication.

[0072] (Step S51) The communication switching control unit 11 makes a communication switching determination when the communication is for an emergency call. For emergency calls, logic is used to ensure that communication is made at all costs. Here, let's assume that the communication switching control unit 11 has selected "IF-A" as the communication route.

[0073] (Step S52) Based on the result of the communication switching determination and the information included in the request from the application, the communication switching control unit 11 sends the data requested by the application to the communication control unit 14.

[0074] (Step S53) The communication control unit 14 attempts to communicate using "IF-A" selected by the communication switching control unit 11. In the example shown in the figure, this illustrates the case where the time between sending the application request data in step S52 and receiving the application response data exceeds a set threshold (timer expiration). The timer value can be set arbitrarily and may be set for each selected route.

[0075] (Step S54) When the timer value exceeds the threshold, the communication switching control unit 11 performs an application failure determination. If an application failure determination is made, the process proceeds to step S55.

[0076] (Step S55) If an application failure is determined, a process to update the status of the communication line is executed. Specifically, the process to update the status of the communication line may be steps S31 to S34 described above.

[0077] (Step S56) After the communication line status update process is executed, the communication switching control unit 11 performs route selection processing for each communication.

[0078] (Step S57) The route selection process may specifically refer to steps S37 through S44 described above. Here, it is assumed that "IF-B" is selected as the communication route as a result of the communication switching determination.

[0079] (Step S58) After the route selection process is performed, the communication switching control unit 11 transmits the data requested by the application to the communication control unit 14 based on the result of the route selection process and the information included in the request from the application in step S50.

[0080] (Step S59) The communication control unit 14 attempts to communicate using "IF-A" selected by the communication switching control unit 11.

[0081] (Step S60) In step S53 described above, the application was determined to have failed due to the timer expiring, but in step S59, the communication switching control unit 11 receives the application response data, and the communication is deemed to have been successful.

[0082] (Step S61) If the communication is successful, the communication switching control unit 11 responds to the application request in step S50. In this way, for emergency communication, route selection for each communication is repeated until successful. If all options fail, the process may return to the beginning and a second attempt may be made on the same line.

[0083] [An example of various communication line combinations and switching methods] The communication line switching described above is applicable to various types of communication lines. Furthermore, the switching conditions and methods for setting priorities also vary. Below, we will explain some examples of various communication line combinations and switching methods.

[0084] [Example 1] The first example assumes communication for infotainment. Specifically, infotainment communication refers to communications in a vehicle that involve a relatively large amount of data, such as passengers watching videos. Such communications with a large amount of data are not suitable for satellite communication. Therefore, it is desirable to perform switching that takes this information into consideration. This determination is made by the communication switching control unit 11. In other words, the communication switching control unit 11 can choose to perform information communication without using a satellite connection method when it is for infotainment information communication.

[0085] Specifically, if a satellite-based connection method is not used, cellular communication may be prioritized. Furthermore, if a user has both a cellular communication contract on their mobile phone and a cellular communication contract on their vehicle, the question arises as to which to prioritize. In such cases, in order to ensure quality while prioritizing the reduction of communication costs, the cellular communication contracted on the mobile phone of the information processing device 10 may be used with priority over the cellular communication contracted on the vehicle.

[0086] [Second example] The second example assumes communication for emergency calls, such as 110 (police) or 119 (fire / ambulance). For emergency calls, any means of connection is acceptable, regardless of communication charges. Furthermore, such emergency calls may not be possible via Wi-Fi. Also, Wi-Fi has limitations, such as being usable only in limited areas. Therefore, information communication using a cellular network and connection via satellite are options. Thus, it is desirable to switch based on these circumstances. This determination is made by the communication switching control unit 11. In other words, the communication switching control unit 11 can also select cellular network communication as the first priority and satellite connection as the second priority when it is for information communication intended for emergency calls. Note that emergency calls may be automatically transmitted (transmitting location information while making a voice call) when a vehicle is involved in an accident.

[0087] Furthermore, since communication for emergency calls requires a connection at all costs, even if communication is not possible via cellular or satellite lines, it is preferable not to terminate the communication but to use another potentially usable cellular or satellite line. By adopting such a configuration, the probability of successful communication can be increased. In other words, for emergency calls, it is preferable to try all options, even if they are low priority. Moreover, even if communication is not possible after trying all options, it is acceptable to return to a higher priority line and repeat the communication probability test until a connection is established.

[0088] Furthermore, when using a line already occupied by another purpose for emergency calls, it is preferable to disconnect that line and use a line available for emergency calls if it is unavailable. In other words, even if another application is already making other communications, it is preferable to disconnect those communications and make the high-priority emergency call. By adopting such a configuration, the likelihood of successful communication for high-priority communications can be increased.

[0089] [Third example] The third example assumes communication using AI models such as generative AI via satellite information communication. This communication utilizes AI models such as generative AI, but the information transmitted and received is text data. Therefore, since the amount of data transmitted and received is not large, satellite information communication is sufficient. In other words, for information communication intended to use AI, a connection method via satellite is preferable. This determination is made by the communication switching control unit 11. In other words, the communication switching control unit 11 can also select a connection method via satellite when the information communication is intended to use AI.

[0090] [Example 4] The fourth example assumes that the vehicle accompanying the information processing device 10 is a vehicle that functions as an ICT terminal with multiple sensors (also known as a connected car). Such a connected car is equipped with many sensors. Therefore, it is preferable to send the detection values ​​of such sensors to the server all at once. While the detection values ​​of such sensors are important data, especially for information gathering by vehicle manufacturers, real-time data is not always necessary. Furthermore, while the detection values ​​of such sensors may be useful to vehicle manufacturers, they may not be useful to the user of the vehicle. In other words, the communication charges incurred for such information communication should not be borne by the user. Therefore, it is desirable to perform switching that takes these circumstances into consideration. Such a determination is made by the communication switching control unit 11. In other words, the communication switching control unit 11 can also select a connection method that does not incur communication charges for the user of the vehicle when the information communication is intended to transmit information detected by sensors installed in the vehicle.

[0091] Specifically, a connection method that does not incur communication charges for the vehicle user may be Wi-Fi, etc. In this case, information communication may be performed via Wi-Fi when the vehicle is stopped. Furthermore, user-contracted Wi-Fi should be excluded. Moreover, since such information communication should have low communication charges and real-time capabilities are not required, it is preferable not to use satellites.

[0092] Furthermore, the communication for transmitting vehicle data may be configured to temporarily store the data and, under conditions such as during off-peak hours (e.g., at night), switch to a line with a different communication service ID than the normal communication service ID to transmit the data. The communication service ID may be, for example, a slice ID in a network slice. Moreover, if such a configuration for temporarily storing data is adopted, situations may arise where it becomes impossible to temporarily store all the data. In such cases, it is preferable to switch to a line with the normal communication service ID to transmit the data, even during times when the network may be congested. This is to prevent the loss of important data due to the inability to store data. Network slices are supported by 5G, but if the vehicle remains in a 4G area, there is a possibility of missing the timing for transmitting temporarily stored information. Therefore, in such cases, it may be preferable to communicate information using the normal method, even if it incurs communication charges.

[0093] [Example 5] The fifth example assumes that the vehicle accompanying the information processing device 10 is a vehicle capable of autonomous driving. In guided driving, remote monitoring is important. In autonomous driving, a stable communication line is important for safe driving. In this case, the communication switching control unit 11 selects a stable line and switches to it sequentially. A stable line is, in other words, a line with low latency. Therefore, it is desirable to perform switching while taking these circumstances into consideration. Such a determination is made by the communication switching control unit 11. In other words, the communication switching control unit 11 can also select, as a first priority, to perform information communication using a line with low latency when the purpose of information communication is to transmit information necessary for autonomous driving, and if information communication using the line selected as the first priority fails, it can select as a second priority to perform information communication using the line with the next lowest latency.

[0094] Specifically, for communication for autonomous driving, it is preferable not to use satellites and Wi-Fi in order to achieve low latency. Furthermore, for communication for autonomous driving, if it is determined that the line speed cannot maintain a threshold (for example, bandwidth for transmitting video), it is preferable to do one of the following: Firstly, if the information processing device 10 is a terminal that supports DSDA, that is, if multiple lines can be used simultaneously, it is preferable to use them simultaneously. Secondly, even if only one line is used, it is preferable to use a different line. That is, it is preferable to use a line from a different MNO. Thirdly, it is preferable to use a line with a different communication service ID from the normal communication service ID within the same MNO. That is, it is preferable to switch a congested area (an area with a high concentration of people) to a slice with a higher priority. In this way, it is preferable for the communication switching control unit 11 to switch to use a stable line according to the congestion situation.

[0095] [Example 6] The sixth example assumes the reception of information for software updates. In recent years, the number of software-driven vehicles (so-called SDVs: Software Defined Vehicles) has been increasing. In such vehicles, the importance of information communication varies depending on the degree of malfunction in the software. In this case, it is desirable for the communication switching control unit 11 to switch lines based on the degree of malfunction. Such a determination is made by the communication switching control unit 11. In other words, in the case of information communication aimed at updating the software that drives the vehicle, the communication switching control unit 11 can also select a line according to the importance of the software update.

[0096] Specifically, for data communication related to software updates to fix critical bugs, if it is determined that the line speed cannot maintain a threshold (i.e., the network is congested), it is preferable to use a line with a different communication service ID than the normal communication service ID. This is to ensure that high-priority communications, which have a higher priority depending on the congestion level, can be transmitted more reliably and quickly.

[0097] Figure 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of the priority order for each type of communication according to this embodiment. The left column of the figure shows examples of the various communication lines described above. "Infotainment" is the "first example" described above. "Emergency call" is the "second example" described above. "AI tool" is the "third example" described above. "Vehicle data" is the "fourth example" described above. "Autonomous driving" is the "fifth example" described above. "Software update" is the "sixth example" described above.

[0098] The first row of the diagram lists the classifications of lines that the information processing device 10 can use. Specifically, the classifications of lines that the information processing device 10 can use are given as "cellular," "satellite," and "Wi-Fi (registered trademark)." More specifically, lines classified as "cellular" include "Vehicle contract MNO-A DN1," "Vehicle contract MNO-A DN2," "Vehicle contract MNO-B," and "Mobile phone contract MNO-A." Lines classified as "satellite" include "Vehicle contract D2C (satellite)" and "Vehicle contract NTN." Lines classified as "Wi-Fi (registered trademark)" include "corporate contract" and "individual contract."

[0099] The numbers shown in the figure indicate the priority order for the communication switching control unit 11 to switch communications. As shown in the figure, the priority order differs depending on the type of communication. For example, the priority order for "Infotainment" is high for "Wi-Fi (registered trademark)" "Personal Contracts", the priority order for "Emergency Calls" is high for "Cellular" "Vehicle Contract MNO-A DN2", the priority order for "AI Tools" is high for "Wi-Fi (registered trademark)" "Personal Contracts", the priority order for "Vehicle Data" is high for "Wi-Fi (registered trademark)" "Corporate Contracts", the priority order for "Autonomous Driving" is high for "Cellular" "Vehicle Contract MNO-A DN1", and the priority order for "Software Updates" is high for "Wi-Fi (registered trademark)" "Corporate Contracts".

[0100] Figure 8 is a diagram illustrating the definition of communication according to this embodiment. As shown in the figure, communication is defined by an “application descriptor”. Specifically, the types of communication shown in the first to sixth examples are defined by an application identifier (App-ID) and one or more communication identification conditions. The communication identification conditions are defined by parameters such as the source IP address and port, the destination IP address and port, DNN / APN, connection capabilities, or destination FQDN. These parameters may be based on the 3GPP® specification (URSP: UE Route Selection Policy). In addition, a “communication switching descriptor” corresponding to the “application descriptor” is defined, and the communication switching control unit 11 may use the “communication switching descriptor” to determine the control method for the communication. The “communication switching descriptor” includes switching rules, and the communication switching control unit 11 may refer to these switching rules.

[0101] The switching rules may include, for example, (1) route selection based on network priority (applicable to most apps), (2) switching control based on network priority triggered by an app (applicable to emergency calls), and (3) route selection based on other conditions unrelated to network priority (applicable to autonomous driving).

[0102] Furthermore, the "route selection descriptor" corresponding to the "application descriptor" defines the "reference priority," "line ID," and "Session ID." The "reference priority" defines the priority of the communication line, and the communication line is uniquely determined by specifying the "line ID" from the "communication line descriptor" for the "line ID" and the "Session ID" from the "session descriptor" for the "Session ID." The "route selection descriptor" may also include route selection conditions. A time condition can be exemplified as an example of a route selection condition. The time condition may be the time period condition described in the fourth example (vehicle data) above. Another example of a route selection condition is a quality condition. The quality condition may be the application condition for priority communication described in the fifth example (autonomous driving) or the sixth example (software update) above.

[0103] [Summary of Embodiments] According to the embodiment described above, the information processing device 10 moves with the vehicle. The information processing device 10 includes a communication line management unit 12 to acquire line information for each of the multiple available lines, defines each line based on the acquired line information, includes a communication switching control unit 11 to select which line (which can also be called a route) from the lines defined by the communication line management unit 12 will be used to perform the information communication for each information communication used to realize a function in the vehicle, and includes a communication control unit 14 to perform the information communication using the line selected by the communication switching control unit 11. According to this embodiment, by adopting such a configuration, it is possible to switch communication lines for each application while taking into account the constraints of various communication network lines.

[0104] Furthermore, according to the embodiment described above, the lines managed by the communication line management unit 12 and switched by the communication switching control unit 11 include cellular lines, wireless LAN lines, and satellite-based connection lines. By adopting this configuration, this embodiment makes it possible to switch communication lines for each application, taking into account the constraints of cellular lines, wireless LAN lines, and satellite-based connection lines.

[0105] Furthermore, according to the embodiment described above, the lines managed by the communication line management unit 12 and switched by the communication switching control unit 11 include multiple cellular lines provided by multiple carriers. According to this embodiment, by adopting such a configuration, even when multiple cellular lines provided by multiple carriers are included, it becomes possible to select a suitable line and switch the communication line for each application.

[0106] Furthermore, according to the embodiment described above, the communication line management unit 12 of the information processing device 10 defines the cellular line, including the carrier number of the contract profile in the pre-installed eSIM, and the communication service ID, when the lines managed by the communication line management unit 12 and switched by the communication switching control unit 11 include a cellular line. According to this embodiment, by adopting such a configuration, it becomes possible to switch communication lines for each application for cellular lines.

[0107] Furthermore, according to the embodiment described above, the communication line management unit 12 of the information processing device 10 defines the line by the SSID within the module that provides information communication using the wireless LAN standard when the lines managed by the communication line management unit 12 and switched by the communication switching control unit 11 include a line using the wireless LAN standard. According to this embodiment, by adopting such a configuration, it becomes possible to switch communication lines for each application using the wireless LAN standard.

[0108] Furthermore, according to the embodiment described above, if the communication line management unit 12 of the information processing device 10 manages the lines that the communication line management unit 12 manages and the communication switching control unit 11 switches includes lines using a satellite connection method, the communication line is defined by the unique identification number of the module for performing the satellite connection method. According to this embodiment, by adopting such a configuration, it becomes possible to switch communication lines for each application for lines using a satellite connection method.

[0109] Furthermore, according to the embodiment described above, the communication switching control unit 11 of the information processing device 10 selects to perform information communication without using a satellite connection method when the information communication is for infotainment purposes. According to this embodiment, by adopting such a configuration, it is possible to suitably switch communication lines for each application when the information communication is for infotainment purposes.

[0110] Furthermore, according to the embodiment described above, the communication switching control unit 11 of the information processing device 10 selects, with first priority, to perform information communication using a cellular connection, and with second priority, to perform information communication using a satellite connection. According to this embodiment, by adopting such a configuration, it is possible to suitably switch communication lines for each application when performing information communication for the purpose of emergency notification.

[0111] Furthermore, according to the embodiment described above, the communication switching control unit 11 of the information processing device 10 selects a connection method via satellite when the information communication is intended to use AI. According to this embodiment, by adopting such a configuration, it is possible to suitably switch the communication line for each application when the information communication is intended to use AI.

[0112] Furthermore, according to the embodiment described above, the vehicle is an ICT terminal equipped with multiple sensors, and the communication switching control unit 11 of the information processing device 10 selects a connection method that does not incur communication charges for the user of the vehicle when the purpose of information communication is to transmit information detected by the sensors. According to this embodiment, by adopting such a configuration, it is possible to suitably switch the communication line for each application when the purpose of information communication is to transmit information detected by sensors equipped in a vehicle as an ICT terminal equipped with multiple sensors.

[0113] Furthermore, according to the embodiment described above, the vehicle is a vehicle capable of autonomous driving, and the communication switching control unit 11 of the information processing device 10, in the case of information communication aimed at transmitting information necessary for autonomous driving, selects as a first priority to perform information communication using a line with low latency, and if information communication using the line selected as the first priority fails, selects as a second priority to perform information communication using the line with the next lowest latency. According to this embodiment, by adopting such a configuration, it is possible to suitably switch communication lines for each application in the case of information communication aimed at transmitting information necessary for autonomous driving by a vehicle capable of autonomous driving.

[0114] Furthermore, according to the embodiment described above, the communication switching control unit 11 of the information processing device 10 selects a communication line according to the importance of the software update when the information communication is for the purpose of updating the software that drives the vehicle. According to this embodiment, by adopting such a configuration, it is possible to suitably switch communication lines for each application when the information communication is for the purpose of updating the software that drives the vehicle.

[0115] [Internal structure] Figure 9 is a block diagram showing an example of the internal configuration of an information processing device according to this embodiment. The computer shown in the figure shows an example of a specific hardware configuration for realizing the information processing device 10. The computer consists of a central processing unit (processor) 901, RAM 902, input / output ports 903, input / output devices 904 and 905, etc., and a bus 906. The computer itself can be realized using existing technology. The central processing unit 901 executes instructions contained in programs read from RAM 902, etc. The central processing unit 901 writes data to RAM 902, reads data from RAM 902, and performs arithmetic and logical operations according to each instruction. RAM 902 stores data and programs. Each element contained in RAM 902 has an address and can be accessed using that address. RAM stands for "Random Access Memory". Input / output ports 903 are ports for the central processing unit 901 to exchange data with external input / output devices, etc. Input / output devices 904 and 905 are input / output devices. Input / output devices 904 and 905 exchange data with the central processing unit 901 via input / output ports 903. Bus 906 is a common communication channel used within the computer. For example, the central processing unit 901 reads and writes data to RAM 902 via bus 906. Also, for example, the central processing unit 901 accesses input / output ports via bus 906. Furthermore, all or part of the information processing device 10 may be implemented using hardware such as ASICs, PLDs, or FPGAs. Furthermore, all or part of each functional unit may be implemented by a combination of software and hardware.

[0116] Furthermore, the above-described embodiment makes it possible to "provide an information processing device, an information processing method, and a program that can switch communication lines for each application, taking into account the constraints of various types of communication network lines." Therefore, according to this embodiment, it is possible to contribute to Goal 9 of the United Nations-led Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), "Build resilient infrastructure, promote sustainable industrialization and expand innovation."

[0117] Although embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above with reference to the drawings, the specific configuration is not limited to these embodiments, and design modifications and the like are also included within the scope of the gist of the present invention.

[0118] Alternatively, computer programs for realizing the functions of each of the above-mentioned devices may be recorded on a computer-readable recording medium, and the programs recorded on this recording medium may be loaded into a computer system and executed. The term "computer system" here may include hardware such as an operating system and peripheral devices. Furthermore, "computer-readable recording medium" refers to writable non-volatile memory such as flexible disks, magneto-optical disks, ROMs, and flash memory, portable media such as DVDs (Digital Versatile Discs), and storage devices such as hard disks built into a computer system.

[0119] Furthermore, "computer-readable recording media" also includes volatile memory (e.g., DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory)) within a computer system that acts as a server or client when a program is transmitted via a network such as the Internet or a communication line such as a telephone line, which retains the program for a certain period of time. In addition, the above program may be transmitted from the computer system that stores the program in a storage device, etc., to another computer system via a transmission medium or by transmission waves within the transmission medium. Here, the "transmission medium" for transmitting the program refers to a medium that has the function of transmitting information, such as a network such as the Internet or a communication line such as a telephone line. Furthermore, the above program may be for the purpose of realizing a part of the above-mentioned functions. Moreover, it may be a so-called differential file (differential program) that can realize the above-mentioned functions in combination with a program already recorded in the computer system. [Explanation of symbols]

[0120] 1...System, 10...Information Processing Device, 11...Communication Switching Control Unit, 12...Communication Line Management Unit, 13...Communication Quality Acquisition Unit, 14...Communication Control Unit, 15...Communication Device, 16...Storage Unit, 20...Information Processing Device

Claims

1. An information processing device that moves with the vehicle, A communication switching control unit selects which of multiple available lines to use for each information communication used to realize the functions of the vehicle, A communication control unit that performs the information communication using the line selected by the communication switching control unit, Equipped with, The aforementioned communication switching control unit selects a connection method via satellite when the information communication is intended to use AI. Information processing device.

2. An information processing device that moves with a vehicle, A communication switching control unit selects which of multiple available lines to use for each information communication used to realize the functions of the vehicle, A communication control unit that performs the information communication using the line selected by the communication switching control unit, Equipped with, The aforementioned vehicle is a vehicle that functions as an ICT terminal equipped with multiple sensors. The communication switching control unit, in the case of information communication intended to transmit information detected by the sensor, selects a line using a connection method that does not incur communication charges for the vehicle user. Information processing device.

3. An information processing device that moves with a vehicle, A communication switching control unit selects which of multiple available lines to use for each information communication used to realize the functions of the vehicle, A communication control unit that performs the information communication using the line selected by the communication switching control unit, Equipped with, The communication switching control unit, in the case of information communication for the purpose of updating the software that drives the vehicle, selects a line according to the importance of the software update. Information processing device.

4. A communication line management unit further comprises a plurality of usable lines, which acquires line information for each of the lines and defines each of the lines based on the acquired line information, The communication switching control unit selects which of the lines defined by the communication line management unit will be used to perform information communication. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The lines managed by the aforementioned communication line management unit and switched by the aforementioned communication switching control unit include cellular lines, wireless LAN (Local Area Network) standard lines, and satellite-based connection lines. The information processing apparatus according to claim 4.

6. The lines managed by the aforementioned communication line management unit and switched by the aforementioned communication switching control unit include multiple cellular lines provided by multiple carriers. The information processing apparatus according to claim 4.

7. The communication line management unit defines the line using a subscriber ID that includes the carrier number of the contract profile in the pre-installed eSIM (embedded SIM) and a communication service ID that indicates the contracted communication service, if the lines managed by the communication line management unit and switched by the communication switching control unit include a cellular line. The information processing apparatus according to claim 4.

8. If the communication line management unit manages the communication line management unit and the communication switching control unit switches a line that conforms to a wireless LAN standard, the communication line management unit defines the line by the SSID in the module that provides information communication conforming to the wireless LAN standard. The information processing apparatus according to claim 4.

9. If the communication line management unit manages the communication line management unit and the communication switching control unit switches the lines, the communication line management unit defines the lines using the unique identification number of the module for performing the satellite connection. The information processing apparatus according to claim 4.

10. The aforementioned communication switching control unit, in the case of information communication for infotainment purposes, selects to perform information communication without using a satellite connection method. The information processing apparatus according to claim 4.

11. The communication switching control unit, in the case of information communication for the purpose of emergency notification, selects, as a first priority, to perform information communication using a cellular connection method, and as a second priority, selects, a connection method via satellite. The information processing apparatus according to claim 4.

12. The aforementioned vehicle is a vehicle capable of autonomous driving. The communication switching control unit, in the case of information communication intended to transmit information necessary for performing the automated driving, selects, as a first priority, to perform the information communication using a line with low latency, and if the information communication using the line selected as the first priority fails, selects, as a second priority, to perform the information communication using the line with the next lowest latency. The information processing apparatus according to claim 4.

13. An information processing method using an information processing device that moves with a vehicle, A communication switching control process is performed to select which of the multiple available lines to use for information communication to realize the functions of the vehicle, for each information communication used. A communication control step which performs the information communication using the line selected by the communication switching control step, It has, The aforementioned communication switching control process, in the case of information communication intended to use AI, selects a connection method via satellite. Information processing methods.

14. An information processing method using an information processing device that moves together with a vehicle, A communication switching control process is performed to select which of the multiple available lines to use for information communication to realize the functions of the vehicle, for each information communication used. A communication control step which performs the information communication using the line selected by the communication switching control step, It has, The aforementioned vehicle is a vehicle that functions as an ICT terminal equipped with multiple sensors. The communication switching control step, in the case of information communication intended to transmit information detected by the sensor, selects a line using a connection method that does not incur communication charges for the vehicle user. Information processing methods.

15. An information processing method using an information processing device that moves together with a vehicle, A communication switching control process is performed to select which of the multiple available lines to use for information communication to realize the functions of the vehicle, for each information communication used. A communication control step which performs the information communication using the line selected by the communication switching control step, It has, The communication switching control step, in the case of information communication for the purpose of updating the software that drives the vehicle, selects a line according to the importance of the software update. Information processing methods.

16. A program for causing a computer to execute the information processing method described in any one of claims 13 to 15.

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