Car sharing management server and computer program

Abstract

To provide a technology to expand car sharing services by subleasing parking vehicle spaces for monthly contracts and using them as temporary car sharing vehicle spaces.SOLUTION: A car sharing management server includes: a shared car management DB that stores management data regarding shared cars, which are vehicles lent to member users; a vehicle space management DB that stores management data regarding vehicle spaces of a car sharing station including shared car vehicle spaces and monthly vehicle spaces; and a pooled vehicle management DB that stores management data regarding buffer vehicles at a pooling location. If there is a reservation that cannot be accommodated by the shared cars in the shared car vehicle spaces, available lending date and time data regarding available lending date and time is verified from a communication terminal associated with a monthly vehicle space contractor, and the buffer vehicle is forwarded.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a technology that enables subletting of a parking compartment during non-parking hours for a so-called monthly lease contract parking compartment.

Background Art

[0002] The parking lot business of providing a parking space for a vehicle driver and receiving a consideration for the provision from the driver has existed for a long time. For the consideration (fee) for the provision, for the occupied space for one vehicle, an area for distinguishing from other spaces is displayed in advance, and one area (hereinafter, referred to as a parking compartment or simply "compartment") is lent out as one unit. The time of occupying the compartment (for example, 10 minutes, 15 minutes) is used as a unit, which is called "time lease", and it is common to make a lease contract on a monthly basis, which is called "monthly lease".

[0003] (Fig. 1) Generally, a broker who has received a commission for managing the land from the landowner mediates between a person who wants to use a parking compartment under a monthly lease contract and the landowner who owns the land including the parking compartment. Due to the spread and development of technologies related to information communication, brokers have constructed a mediation system so that information on properties of parking compartments can be viewed. This will be described in more detail using Fig. 1.

[0004] A broker who has received a commission for managing the land from the landowner accumulates data on the land entrusted for management in a landowner database together with the attribute information of the landowner in a monthly lease mediation system managed and operated by the broker himself / herself. As the data on the land, for example, it is "31-2, West Gotanda, Shinagawa-ku", and it is assumed that there are "3 compartments (A, B, C) for monthly lease contract" and "4 compartments (D, E, F, G) for time lease" on the land.

[0005] The parking space management database includes both a monthly rental database and an hourly rental database. Parking spaces A and C, which are for monthly contracts, are registered as being contracted, while parking space B is registered as being uncontracted. In addition, the hourly rental database is used to register reservation status and other information for parking spaces D, E, F, and G, and to perform data updates to the latest information.

[0006] Those looking for a monthly parking space (prospective users) use their communication devices to access the monthly parking database, browse, and search. If they find a suitable monthly parking space, they submit application data. The application data includes, for example, the applicant's name (Taro Taimu) and data identifying the requested parking space (Monthly Parking Space B at 31-2 Gotanda-Nishi, Shinagawa-ku). The application data is received by the application receiving mechanism in the monthly contract brokerage system, and if a contract is concluded, the necessary data is then stored in the contract holder database.

[0007] A search of the patent information platform for prior patents potentially related to this application yielded the following patent documents, which were then examined.

[0008] Patent Document 1 discloses a technology for effectively utilizing parking spaces reserved for service vehicles used in vehicle sharing services as parking spaces. In other words, it is a technology for utilizing these spaces as hourly parking spaces during the hours when rental cars or commercial car-sharing vehicles are being used. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0009] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2021-93143 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0010] Figures 2 and 3 are used to examine the current problems (the need for subleasing). Let's say there is a parking lot with 7 parking spaces, where 3 spaces are for hourly rentals, 1 space is for car-sharing vehicles (hereinafter abbreviated as "car-sharing vehicles") to enter and exit the parking lot, and 3 spaces are for monthly contracts. In the car-sharing parking spaces, car-sharing vehicles are parked, and in front of each space, a car-sharing sign (such as a cone) is placed.

[0011] Among those who have a monthly parking space contract, there are situations where they are using their vehicle (taking it out of their contracted parking space) during times when the demand for car sharing is high, and their contracted parking space is vacant. On the other hand, for car-sharing members, the times of day when demand is high are the times when it is difficult to make a reservation. Let's explain this in more detail, assuming user B in Figure 3.

[0012] Even if User B submits reservation request data that overlaps with User A's reservation request data after User A has submitted their reservation confirmation data, the car-sharing operator will not be able to provide a vehicle that matches the reservation request. This is because the reservation time slot desired by User B is already booked at this Koto Ward Second Station, including User A's reservation (vehicles other than those dispatched by User A are shown as "alternatively reserved"). Therefore, the management server will send a reply to User B's information terminal stating "No matches found (reservation not possible)" (shown at the bottom of Figure 3).

[0013] In the car-sharing business, the simplification of vehicle management by assigning one vehicle to one parking space was a prerequisite. Under this premise, reservations for overlapping time slots were on a first-come, first-served basis. Applying this to the example mentioned above, user B simply receives the fact that "a reservation could not be made" (illustration illustrating that user B receives the result "no matches found"). Then, they may change their reservation request data to make a reservation possible, such as searching for another station where a reservation is possible or changing the type of vehicle they want to use, or they may simply give up on making a reservation altogether. It would be ideal if User B changes their reservation request to reflect a available reservation, but if they give up on making a reservation altogether, the car-sharing service provider would be unable to meet User B's needs and would incur a lost opportunity.

[0014] Using Figure 4, we will examine the rationality of the current situation (the reason for prohibiting subleasing in contracts where there is a need). Figure 4 illustrates the positions of the monthly parking space contract holder, the land owner, and the car-sharing service provider (abbreviated as "car-sharing provider"). From the landowner's perspective, while monthly tenants are trustworthy because the intermediary handles the transaction responsibly as a business, there is a concern that if a monthly tenant subleases, they won't know who will be using their parking space. To address this concern, the contract prohibits subleasing.

[0015] If, hypothetically, you could sublet the time slots during which your vehicle is out of the parking space and generate revenue, it would effectively reduce the monthly rent for the monthly parking space contract holder. For car-sharing operators, knowing in advance when monthly parking spaces are vacant allows them to temporarily increase the number of car-sharing spaces available by transferring car-sharing vehicles to those spaces.

[0016] To address the aforementioned challenges, we have explored technologies that allow monthly-contract parking spaces to be subleased, thereby enabling their use as temporary parking spaces for car-sharing vehicles. The problem that this invention aims to solve is to provide a technology that enables the subleasing of parking spaces for monthly contracts as spaces for car sharing. [Means for solving the problem]

[0017] In order to solve the above-described problems, a system is provided in which, during a time period when a parking compartment for a monthly pole contract is temporarily vacant, a car-sharing operator transports and parks a car-sharing vehicle, and accepts reservations from car-sharing ring members for the car-sharing vehicle (see FIG. 5).

[0018] In the present application, a first invention related to a car-sharing ring management server, a second invention related to a computer program for controlling the car-sharing ring management server according to the first, and a third invention related to a computer program executed on a communication terminal that communicates with the car-sharing ring management server according to the first are provided.

[0019] (First Invention) The first invention relates to a car-sharing ring management server that performs data communication with a communication terminal of a member user who has previously registered as a member for using the car-sharing ring to obtain a member ID, and data communication with a communication terminal of a monthly pole compartment contractor (see FIG. 7). A share car management database that stores management data related to a share car that is a vehicle to be lent to a member user, A car compartment management database that stores information related to a share car compartment for lending the share car and a car compartment of a car-sharing station including the monthly pole car compartment of the monthly pole car compartment contractor, Vehicle room management data A pool vehicle management database that stores information related to buffer vehicles at a pooling location where buffer vehicles of the share cars are pooled, Reservation data receiving means for receiving reservation request data including the member ID, date and time data of the vehicle to be used, and the departure location where use starts, Pool vehicle management data A first reservation availability determination means for determining whether the date and time data included in the reservation request data received by the reservation data receiving means is available for lending using the share car management database, When it is determined by the first reservation availability determination means that lending is not possible, it is determined whether vehicle procurement and parking of the vehicle are possible, and the above Reservation request data ​​Reservation availability second determination means for determining whether lending is possible using the vehicle compartment management database and the pool vehicle management database described above, Reservation confirmation reception means for receiving a reservation confirmation reply as a result of transmitting the determination result by the reservation availability second determination means or the determination result by the reservation availability first determination means described above to the communication terminal related to the member user, Lending data reception means for receiving lending available date and time data regarding the date and time when lending is possible from the communication terminal related to the monthly vehicle compartment contract holder, Data update means for updating the share car management database and the vehicle compartment management database described above, Equipped with (See FIGS. 7 and 18). The aforementioned rental availability date and time data includes a contract holder ID that identifies the contract holder of the monthly parking space, The aforementioned data update means updates the shared car management database so that the monthly parking space identified by the aforementioned subscriber ID can be used as a shared car parking space only during the rental period specified in the rental availability date and time data. Furthermore, the aforementioned parking space management database will be updated with respect to the aforementioned monthly parking spaces during the aforementioned rental period.

[0020] (Term Explanation) The "car sharing" in this application includes "rental car" as a business service. This is because the boundary of the business service is ambiguous. The "monthly vehicle compartment" includes not only the vehicle compartment for which a contract has been made and the rent is paid monthly, but also vehicle compartments with long-term contracts such as annual contracts and those for which the rent for the contract period is paid in a lump sum. Regarding the "lending available date and time data", it mainly varies depending on the convenience of the administrator (software aspects such as hardware facilities and operation). For example, in addition to time units, it is also possible to set the lending available date and time in half-day units or one-day units.

[0021] (Function) The share car management database stores management data regarding the share car, which is the vehicle to be lent to the member user. The vehicle compartment management database stores management data regarding the vehicle compartments of the car sharing station including the share car vehicle compartment for lending the share car and the monthly vehicle compartment related to the monthly vehicle compartment contract holder described above. The pool vehicle management database stores management data regarding the buffer vehicles at the pool location where the buffer vehicles of the share car described above are pooled. The rental data receiving means receives rental availability data regarding the dates and times when a vehicle is available for rental from the communication terminal of a monthly parking space contract holder. The data update means updates the shared car management database and the parking space management database using the rental availability data received by the rental data receiving means.

[0022] The reservation data receiving means receives reservation request data that includes the member ID, date and time data for the vehicle to be used, and the departure location from which the vehicle will be used. The reservation eligibility first determination means uses the shared car management database to determine whether the date and time data included in the reservation request data received by the reservation data receiving means is available for rental. If the reservation eligibility first determination means determines that the vehicle is unavailable for rental, the reservation eligibility second determination means uses the vehicle space management database and the pool vehicle management database to determine whether the vehicle can be procured and parked, and whether the rental is possible based on the rental request data. The reservation confirmation receiving means receives a reservation confirmation reply, which is the result of transmitting the decision made by the second reservation eligibility determination means or the decision made by the first reservation eligibility determination means to the communication terminal of the member user.

[0023] To summarize the operation of the car-sharing management server described above, it works as follows: In other words, a monthly parking space contract holder uses their own communication terminal to provide data on available dates and times to the management server. If a reservation is made at a time when the pre-arranged shared car space and the corresponding shared car are unavailable, the system will then transfer another shared car from the pool of vehicles to the monthly parking space contract holder's space, temporarily converting that space into a car-sharing vehicle space to accommodate the reservation.

[0024] (Variation 1 of the first invention) The first invention can be formed as follows (see Figure 11). In other words, a rental data availability date and time receiving means that receives rental availability date and time change data regarding requests to change the rental date and time from a communication terminal related to a monthly parking space contract holder, The rental data availability date and time data receiving means checks whether a rental reservation has already been made for the date and time change data included in the rental availability date and time change data received by the rental data availability date and time change means, based on the data stored in the aforementioned vehicle room management database, and determines whether the change is permissible. Equipped with, The data on whether the change is possible, determined by the aforementioned change feasibility determination means, is transmitted to the aforementioned communication terminal. If the change is possible, the aforementioned vehicle room management database is updated with the aforementioned change data for the available rental date and time.

[0025] (action) This system allows monthly parking space contract holders to change (including delete) their available dates and times after they have registered them. In other words, once a date and time is registered as available for rental, it may not be possible to change (including delete) it.

[0026] (Variation 2 of the first invention) The first invention can be formed as follows (see Figures 12 and 13). In other words, monthly contract holders contact address A subscriber database that has accumulated data, A car-sharing data disclosure means that makes data on available shared cars for rental, based on the aforementioned shared car management database, available for viewing by member users, A search log database that stores search logs of the aforementioned car-sharing data disclosure means, Sublease performance data extraction means for extracting sublease performance data from monthly contract holders from the aforementioned shared car management database or the aforementioned vehicle space management database, A means for extracting time periods of car shortages, which extracts time periods and areas where car sharing is expected to be in short supply from the aforementioned search log database and the aforementioned subleasing performance data, The time periods affected by the shortage extracted by the means for extracting the time periods of car-sharing shortages and Region, and Shortage is expected Regarding the region, parking of Monthly contract of A means for matching the time slot and location of shortages, which extracts monthly contract holders using the aforementioned contract holder database, Equipped with, The aforementioned time-of-day / location matching means transmits the time-of-day data to the communication terminals of the subscribers identified by the system.

[0027] (Explanation of terms) "Sublease performance data" refers to data that records when a car shared parking space was used on the rental dates and times provided by the monthly contract holder. Since records are kept in both the shared car management database and the parking space management database, sublease performance data can be obtained from either database.

[0028] (action) The search log database stores search logs from the car-sharing data disclosure method. The subleasing data extraction method extracts subleasing data from the shared car management database or the aforementioned vehicle room management database. The shared car shortage time period extraction method extracts time periods and areas where a shortage of shared cars is expected to occur, based on the search log database and subleasing performance data. The shortage time period / location matching method uses the aforementioned contract holder database to extract monthly contract holders who have contracted for parking spaces in the extracted time period and area data related to the shortage, as well as the area data where a shortage is expected. Then, the aforementioned time-of-duration / location matching means transmits the time-of-duration data to the communication terminals of the subscribers it has identified.

[0029] Instead of waiting for monthly contract holders to make rentals, it's possible to extract data on times and locations where shared cars are expected to be in short supply and then call on monthly contract holders with rooms in those locations to offer their parking spaces. As a result, this contributes to increasing the potential for a greater supply of temporary car-sharing spaces during times and locations where shared cars are expected to be in short supply.

[0030] (Second invention) The second invention relates to a computer program for controlling the car-sharing management server according to the first invention. The car-sharing management server is, To use car sharing, you must first register as a member and obtain a member ID. A shared car management database that stores management data related to shared cars, which are vehicles lent to member users, The aforementioned shared car rental space and Monthly parking space contract holders Regarding the parking spaces of car-sharing stations, including monthly rental parking spaces. Vehicle room management data A vehicle room management database for storing, Regarding buffer vehicles in a pooling area where the aforementioned shared car buffer vehicles are pooled. Pool vehicle management data It includes a pool vehicle management database that stores the data. The aforementioned computer program includes a reservation data reception procedure that receives reservation request data including the member ID, date and time data of the vehicle to be used, and the departure location from which the vehicle will be used. The reservation eligibility determination procedure involves using the shared car management database to determine whether the date and time data included in the reservation request data received in the reservation data reception procedure is available for rental, and If the first step in determining whether a reservation is possible is to determine whether it is possible to procure a vehicle and park it, then the above steps are taken. Reservation request data A second reservation eligibility determination procedure, which determines whether or not lending is possible using the aforementioned vehicle room management database and pool vehicle management database, The result of the second procedure for determining whether a reservation is possible or the aforementioned First step in determining whether a reservation is possible.A reservation confirmation receiving procedure, which involves receiving a reservation confirmation reply as a result of sending the judgment result to the communication terminal of the member user mentioned above, A procedure for receiving rental data, which involves receiving rental availability data regarding rental dates and times from a communication terminal related to a monthly parking space contract holder, A data update procedure for updating the aforementioned shared car management database and the aforementioned vehicle space management database. This is to be executed by the aforementioned car-sharing management server. Let it be, The aforementioned rental availability date and time data includes a contract holder ID that identifies the contract holder of the monthly parking space, The aforementioned data update procedure includes a car share management data update procedure that updates the car share management database so that the monthly parking space identified by the aforementioned subscriber ID can be used as a shared car parking space only during the rental period specified in the aforementioned rental availability date and time data, and Includes a vehicle management data update procedure for updating the vehicle management database with respect to the aforementioned monthly vehicle during the aforementioned rental period. (See Figures 7 and 18).

[0031] (Variation 1 of the second invention) The second invention is more preferable if it is as follows: In other words, a procedure for receiving rental data for changes to available rental dates and times, which involves receiving rental data change data regarding requests to change available rental dates and times from a communication terminal related to a monthly parking space contract holder, The procedure for receiving rental data availability date and time data includes a procedure for determining whether a rental reservation has already been made for the date and time change data received in the rental availability date and time change data, based on the data stored in the aforementioned vehicle room management database, and determining whether the change is permissible. A change feasibility data transmission procedure that transmits change feasibility data, based on the change feasibility determination procedure, to the aforementioned communication terminal, If changeable, the procedure for updating the available rental dates and times includes updating the aforementioned vehicle management database with the aforementioned rental date and time change data, This will be executed by the aforementioned car-sharing management server.

[0032] (Variation 2 of the second invention) The second invention is more preferable if it is as follows: In other words, a car-sharing data disclosure procedure that makes data on share cars available for rental based on the aforementioned share car management database available for member users to view, The procedure for accumulating search logs made available for viewing in the car-sharing data disclosure procedure, and A procedure for extracting subleasing data from monthly contract holders, which extracts subleasing data from the aforementioned shared car management database or the aforementioned vehicle space management database, A procedure for extracting time periods of car shortages, which extracts time periods and regions where car shortages are expected from the search logs and subleasing data in the aforementioned search log data accumulation procedure, The time periods affected by the shortage, as extracted using the procedure for extracting time periods with a shortage of shared cars, and Region, and Shortage is expected Regarding the region, managing monthly contract holders Using the subscriber database Monthly contract holders A procedure for matching the missing time slots and locations to extract them, The procedure for sending insufficient time data involves sending insufficient time data to the communication terminals related to the subscribers identified in the insufficient time / location matching procedure, This will be executed by the aforementioned car-sharing management server.

[0033] (Third invention) The third invention relates to an application program that runs on the communication terminal of a monthly parking space contract holder (by downloading and running it, or by running it via a web page) (see "Subleasing App" in Figure 14). In other words, a computer program that operates on a communication terminal of a monthly parking space contract holder that communicates information with a car-sharing management server, A procedure for transmitting rental data, which involves sending rental availability data regarding available rental dates and times to the parking space management server, The procedure for requesting a change to the loan date and time is to send loan date and time change data, which is the change to the loan date and time data sent in the loan data transmission procedure, and A procedure for receiving the result of the parking space management server determining whether the aforementioned data on the date and time of rental can be changed can be changed, A procedure for receiving insufficient time period data when the insufficient time period data for areas and time periods where shared cars are in short supply, extracted from the aforementioned parking space management server, applies. This is a computer program that is to be executed on the aforementioned communication terminal.

[0034] The third invention, as will be described later, can be used as an application program that is downloaded and installed, or it can be executed on a web page set up by the parking management server using the browser of a communication terminal.

[0035] The computer program relating to the second or third invention can also be provided by storing it on a recording medium. A "recording medium" is a medium capable of carrying a program that cannot occupy space itself. Examples include flexible disks, hard disks, DVD-Rs, and flash memory. Furthermore, it is possible to transmit the program according to this invention from a computer storing the program or a control computer for the parking structure to the control computer for the parking structure via a communication line. [Effects of the Invention]

[0036] According to the first invention, a car-sharing management server can be provided that contributes to expanding car-sharing services by subleasing monthly parking spaces to be used as temporary car-sharing vehicle spaces. According to the second invention, a control computer program for a car-sharing management server can be provided that contributes to expanding car-sharing services by subleasing monthly parking spaces to be used as temporary car-sharing vehicle spaces. According to the third invention, it is possible to provide a control computer program for a communication terminal that communicates with a car-sharing management server, which contributes to expanding car-sharing services by subleasing monthly parking spaces to be used as temporary car-sharing vehicle spaces. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0037] [Figure 1] This is a diagram illustrating the overview of a brokerage server that mediates monthly parking space rentals. [Figure 2] This is a conceptual diagram showing a parking lot where monthly rental spaces, hourly rental spaces, and car-sharing spaces are mixed together. [Figure 3] This is a block diagram illustrating the challenges of reservation-based car sharing. [Figure 4] This is a conceptual diagram illustrating the rationale behind the contract prohibiting subletting of monthly parking spaces. [Figure 5] This is a conceptual diagram illustrating the process from when a monthly contract holder vacates parking space C, to when the car-sharing operator delivers a vehicle reserved for that space to the newly vacated parking space. [Figure 6] This block outlines the process when a contract allowing the subletting of a monthly-contract parking space is digitized. [Figure 7] This block diagram shows the process of sending the dates and times when a monthly-contracted parking space is available for subletting, and the car-sharing management server responding to the request for rental to a car-sharing member. [Figure 8] This is a block diagram showing the revenue distribution when monthly-contract parking spaces are used for the temporary entry and exit of car-sharing vehicles. [Figure 9] This block diagram shows the process from when a car-sharing member browses and searches for a reservation to when they confirm their reservation request. [Figure 10] This is a conceptual diagram illustrating the benefits for monthly parking space contract holders, car-sharing operators, car-sharing members, and landowners in the first embodiment. This is a block diagram showing the procedure for changing the dates and times when subleasing is permitted. [Figure 11] This block diagram shows what happens when a monthly parking space contract holder initially provides available dates and times, and then requests to change those dates and times. [Figure 12] This block diagram shows an embodiment of a system that sends push notifications to providers of subleased parking spaces for dates and times when a shortage of hourly parking spaces is predicted. [Figure 13] This block diagram shows the procedure for extracting dates, times, and locations where a shortage of hourly parking spaces is predicted. [Figure 14] This block shows the basic functions of an application program (subleasing app) that is convenient for subletting monthly-contract parking spaces. [Figure 15] This is a conceptual diagram illustrating how revenue obtained from those who use hourly parking through subleasing is distributed to the monthly parking space contract holders and landowners who subleased the space. [Figure 16] This is a conceptual diagram illustrating how revenue generated from car-sharing users, resulting from a temporary use of a car-sharing space through subleasing, is distributed to the monthly car-sharing contract holder, the landowner, and the land use intermediary. [Figure 17] This flowchart shows the reservation procedure for achieving multiple vehicles per parking space by subleasing monthly parking spaces to car-sharing spaces. [Figure 18] This block diagram shows the first embodiment of a reservation system for realizing multiple vehicles per parking space by subleasing monthly parking spaces to car-sharing spaces (when the car-sharing management server and parking server are integrated). [Figure 19] This block diagram shows a second embodiment of a reservation system for realizing multiple vehicles per parking space by subleasing monthly parking spaces to car-sharing spaces (where the car-sharing management server and the parking server are separate). [Figure 20] This is a conceptual diagram illustrating the process of transporting and retrieving vehicles in order to realize a multi-vehicle system in a single train car. [Figure 21] This flowchart shows the procedure for rerouting a vehicle when there is a duplicate return vehicle space. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0038] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings (Figures 5 to 21). The present invention is not limited to these embodiments, but is a form for interpreting the present invention.

[0039] (Figure 5) Figure 5 illustrates the process from when a monthly contract holder vacates parking space C, to when the car-sharing operator delivers a vehicle reserved for that space. The numbers in parentheses within the speech bubbles and their explanations indicate the order in which the events occur.

[0040] The single car-sharing parking space is already booked, and a car-sharing sign is placed at the entrance to the space (0). Next, the monthly contract holder takes their vehicle out of parking space C (1). As a result, parking space C becomes vacant (2). Although not shown in this diagram, the time period during which the vehicle is taken out has been reported to the car-sharing management server as a time period during which it is available for subletting.

[0041] For vacant car compartment C, the branch office A, having received notification from the car-sharing management server, will transport a vehicle reserved for car-sharing use (3). A car-sharing sign will then be placed in front of the transported vehicle. The vehicles used for the reservation can include not only regular cars, but also small mobility vehicles and electric scooters.

[0042] (Figure 6) Figure 6 shows an example of the information processing procedure when electronically executing a tripartite contract between a landowner, a real estate agent, and a monthly parking space contract holder, where the contract stipulates that the landowner permits the monthly parking space contract holder to sublease the property through the real estate agent. While real estate agents generally have relationships with multiple landowners and monthly parking space contract holders, for illustrative purposes, only one of each is shown. The same applies when revising a monthly lease agreement to allow subletting.

[0043] The server of the intermediary company transmits the sublease agreement format to the communication terminal of the land owner and the communication terminal of the monthly parking space contract holder. Landowners and monthly parking space tenants who receive the sublease agreement format on their respective communication terminals sign it using the signature input device. They then send the signed agreement to the intermediary's server using the signed agreement transmission device. Regarding the method of signing, this can involve printing the contract format, signing and sealing the contract, digitally scanning the document, and sending the data, or following various electronic signature methods.

[0044] On the server, the signed contract receiving device receives the signed contract and stores it in the contract database. In addition, to notify that the contract has been concluded, a receipt confirmation of the signed contract (for example, a contract with the intermediary's signature added to the signed contract) is sent to the communication terminals of the land owner and the monthly parking space contract holder.

[0045] (Figure 7) Figure 7 is a block diagram illustrating the general process by which monthly parking space contract holders register the dates and times they are available for subletting to the car-sharing management server (abbreviated as "car-sharing management server" in the figure) and provide these spaces to those who wish to rent them on an hourly basis.

[0046] Monthly parking space contract holders send data specifying the days and times when their parking space is available for subletting, along with their contract holder ID, to the car-sharing management server via their own communication terminal. For example, let's say the available rental dates and times are from 9:00 to 18:00 on July 3, 2021, and the subscriber ID is "123-4567".

[0047] The rental availability date and time data transmitted to the car-sharing management server is received by the data receiving device and registered in the subscriber database as well as the vehicle space management database. The vehicle space management database includes a monthly database that stores management data for monthly rental vehicles, a time-based rental database that stores management data for time-based rental vehicles, and a shared car vehicle space database that stores data on vehicles related to the car-sharing service.

[0048] In the car-sharing management server, a data update mechanism (not shown in the diagram) updates the car-sharing management database in the vehicle space management database. Specifically, management data for vehicles that were originally designated as car-sharing vehicles is stored in the dedicated car-sharing database, while management data for vehicles that were originally monthly rental vehicles but have been made available for subletting is stored in the temporary car-sharing database.

[0049] Based on the aforementioned hourly and monthly rental databases, the parking lots with available spaces for car sharing reservations, as well as the available dates and times, will be made publicly available through the car sharing data disclosure system, allowing car sharing members who have registered and are granted access to view / search information.

[0050] Car-sharing members who have completed registration access the time-based rental data disclosure system via their associated communication terminal and send application data specifying the desired car-sharing station and desired date and time (for example, Gotanda Nishi Daiichi as the data specifying the car-sharing station, and July 3, 2021, 10:30-14:00 as the desired date and time) to the car-sharing management server. The car-sharing management server receives the application data via the application receiving system.

[0051] Subsequently, if the means for determining whether a reservation is possible (illustrated in Figure 9) determines that a reservation is possible, reservation completion data is sent to the communication terminal that sent the application data. This reservation completion data is stored in both the member database and the hourly rental database.

[0052] (Figure 8) Figure 8 is a block diagram showing a first embodiment of the present invention, illustrating the process from entering a subleased parking space (a temporary parking space for car sharing) that has been subleased from a monthly parking space, to exiting and settling the payment.

[0053] First, a car-sharing member who has made a reservation parks their vehicle in the reserved parking space and then sends a parking completion data message to the car-sharing management server via their communication terminal. This parking completion data includes the member ID of the person who made the time-based reservation and the reservation date and time. The car-sharing management server receives the parking completion data via its parking data receiving device.

[0054] To verify whether the data indicating completion of a vehicle entry is the execution of a pre-booked item, the member database and the hourly rental database are checked. The hourly rental database is updated to indicate that the reservation has been completed (illustrated in the diagram as "Data Update" and a "Two-way Arrow").

[0055] When a car-sharing user retrieves their vehicle from the parking space they rented, they send a data message to the car-sharing management server via their communication terminal. This data includes the user's member ID and the date and time of departure. The car-sharing management server then receives the data message via its designated receiving device.

[0056] To verify whether the completed vehicle dispatch data represents the execution of a pre-booked item, checks are performed using the member database and the hourly rental database. The hourly rental database is updated to indicate that the reservation has been completed (illustrated in the diagram as "Data Update" and a "Bidirectional Arrow").

[0057] Based on the data for vehicle entry and exit, the system can determine how long a user has used a parking space for an hourly rental, and the sublease fee calculation system then calculates the settlement fee to be paid. The calculated settlement fee is registered in the member database. Although not shown in the diagram, the member database stores data for settling the settlement fee (such as credit card numbers), and the settlement process is executed according to the prescribed procedure.

[0058] Based on the settlement fee calculated by the sublease fee calculation device, the land owner, the monthly parking space contract holder, and the car-sharing management server operator distribute their shares. Then, the settlement data transmission device sends the settlement data to the communication terminals of the land owner and the monthly parking space contract holder. In the diagram, it is shown that a notification is sent indicating that 100 yen, which is equally divided according to the payment amount of the hourly rental reservation holder, has been recorded.

[0059] (Figure 9) Figure 9 provides a detailed explanation of the reservation procedure for hourly rental car spaces shown in Figure 7. It illustrates the data exchanged between the communication terminal of the person requesting the hourly rental and the car-sharing management server.

[0060] Those wishing to rent a parking space by the hour must first register as a member. Next, they can browse the hourly parking data and search for a parking space that suits their desired location and time. Once a suitable parking space is found, they can submit a reservation request and complete the reservation.

[0061] The communication terminal sends member registration data to the car-sharing management server using a member registration data transmission method. This member registration data includes information such as name and payment method. The submitted member registration data is received by the member registration data receiving mechanism on the car-sharing management server. After a review process to ensure the payment method and other details are appropriate (illustration omitted), the member registration data is registered in the member database.

[0062] On the car-sharing management server, data stored in the hourly rental database is processed for viewing and searching, and made available for viewing through the hourly rental data disclosure system. This hourly rental data disclosure system is configured so that data previously stored in the hourly / monthly rental database can be viewed by non-members, but reservations cannot be made. This is because it demonstrates the advantages of being a member and is expected to encourage non-members to register as members. Furthermore, it may be possible to configure the database so that data stored in the hourly and monthly rental database can only be viewed by registered members.

[0063] Users who wish to rent a parking space by the hour after registering as a member access the hourly rental data disclosure system, browse the hourly rental data, and search for an hourly rental space that matches their desired location and time. Once a suitable space is found, they submit a reservation request using the application data submission system. This reservation request data includes the name of the parking lot or the specific space in which the user wishes to rent a space, the desired reservation date and time, and the user's member ID.

[0064] Reservation application data transmitted from the communication terminal of the person requesting to rent a car by the hour is received by the application receiving means on the car-sharing management server. The application feasibility determination means then determines whether the application is possible, such as whether it overlaps with other applications, and sends a reply to the communication terminal indicating whether it is possible or not. If the transmission indicates that the application is possible (only this case is illustrated in the diagram), it includes instructions for the person requesting to rent a car by the hour to send a final confirmation of their intention to reserve. The person requesting to rent a car by the hour then sends a final confirmation using the reservation confirmation transmission means.

[0065] The final confirmation of a reservation is received by the reservation confirmation receiving mechanism on the car-sharing management server. The reservation confirmation data, including the member ID of the person requesting the hourly rental, data to identify the reserved room, and the reservation date and time, is then registered in the hourly rental database and the member database.

[0066] The procedures described above are typically performed on a webpage provided by the car-sharing management server. However, the car-sharing management server could also provide a dedicated application, and users wishing to rent a car for an hour could download and install this application on a communication terminal to complete the procedure.

[0067] (Figure 9) Figure 9 shows the procedure for changing the dates and times when the item is available for subleasing. Specifically, it shows the procedure for changing the available dates and times data (1) to available dates and times data (4).

[0068] The process is the same as shown in Figure 5 until the rental availability date and time data (1), which is transmitted from the communication terminal of the monthly parking space contract holder and registered on the car-sharing management server, is received by the car-sharing management server, and registration to the database (2) and updating of the parking space management database (3) are performed.

[0069] Now, suppose a monthly parking space contract holder has a change of circumstances and wants to shorten the rental time by two hours, although the available rental days remain the same. In this case, the rental availability date and time data (4) to be changed is sent to the car-sharing management server, and the rental availability date and time change data receiving means receives it. The change approval determination means then checks whether there are already reservations for the original rental availability date and time, and if there are no reservations, the change is approved (the rental availability date and time is changed in the hourly rental database). On the other hand, if there are reservations, the change is not approved (5). The change approval / rejection data (7), which is the result of this decision, is then sent to the communication terminal related to the monthly parking space contract holder.

[0070] If the change is not permitted, the monthly parking space contract holder will not be able to use their own contracted parking space during the period specified in the initially registered rental availability data. This is also clearly stated in the sublease agreement. This is to ensure the interests of members who wish to rent by the hour.

[0071] (Figure 10) Figure 10 shows the benefits for monthly parking space contract holders, car-sharing operators, car-sharing members, and landowners in relation to the first embodiment shown in Figures 7 and 8.

[0072] For monthly parking space contract holders, the advantage is that the revenue generated by subleasing effectively reduces the contract fees they pay to the landowner. From the landowner's perspective, subletting offers the advantage of ensuring that the parking space is not used by an unspecified number of people, but rather by those who have registered as members with the intermediary company, providing a sense of security. For car-sharing members, this offers the advantage of a higher chance of being able to make a reservation, while for car-sharing operators, it offers the advantage of reducing lost opportunities.

[0073] (Figure 11) Figure 11 shows the procedure for changing the dates and times when the item is available for subleasing. Specifically, it shows the procedure for changing the available dates and times data (1) to available dates and times data (4).

[0074] The process is the same as shown in Figure 7 until the rental availability date and time data (1), which is transmitted from the communication terminal of the monthly parking space contract holder and registered on the car-sharing management server, is received by the car-sharing management server, and registration to the database (2) and updating of the parking space management database (3) are performed.

[0075] Now, suppose a monthly parking space contract holder has a change of circumstances and wants to shorten the rental time by two hours, although the available rental days remain the same. In this case, the rental availability date and time data (4) to be changed is sent to the subleasing management server, and the rental availability date and time change data receiving means receives it. The change approval determination means then checks the car sharing management database data to see if there are any existing reservations for the original rental availability date and time. If there are no existing reservations, the change is approved (the rental availability date and time in the hourly rental database is changed). On the other hand, if there are existing reservations, the change is not approved (5). The change approval data (7), which is the result of this decision, is then sent to the communication terminal related to the monthly parking space contract holder.

[0076] If the change is not permitted, the monthly parking space contract holder will not be able to use their own contracted parking space during the period specified in the initially registered rental availability data. This is also clearly stated in the sublease agreement. This is to ensure the interests of members who wish to rent by the hour.

[0077] (Figure 12) Figure 12 shows an outline of the procedure (see Figure 13 for details) in which the car-sharing management server predicts areas and time slots where there is a shortage of hourly parking spaces, and then sends push notifications to monthly parking space contract holders who have contracts that allow subletting in those predicted areas, inquiring about available subletting time slots.

[0078] In the car-sharing management server, a search log database that stores logs of views and searches by those wishing to rent a car by the hour, and a subleasing performance data extraction means that extracts data on subleasing performance from the car space management database, are used by the hourly rental shortage time slot extraction means to predict and extract areas and time slots where there is a shortage of hourly rental parking spaces.

[0079] Based on the time slots and areas where time slots are insufficient, identified by the time slot shortage extraction method, the time slot / location matching method refers to the address data of parking spaces in the contract holder database and extracts the corresponding monthly contract holders. The communication terminals of monthly contract holders identified by the shortage time slot / location matching system will receive push notifications as shortage time slot data, informing them of the dates and times when a shortage of hourly parking spaces is expected, along with a URL that leads them to the subleasing procedure.

[0080] (Figure 13) Figure 13 provides a more detailed illustration of how the data for areas and time periods where hourly rentals are insufficient, as shown in Figure 12, is extracted.

[0081] The search log includes the searched location, date, and time, while the subleasing performance extraction method extracts performance data such as location, day of the week, and time. Using the search log and performance data, the hourly parking shortage extraction method predicts and extracts data for areas and time periods where hourly parking spaces are in short supply.

[0082] Using the extracted data on areas and time zones with shortages, along with the address data of the parking spaces and contact information (such as the email address of the communication device) of the subletting contractors, the shortage time zone / location matching system identifies the contractors who should receive push notifications and sends them.

[0083] (Figure 14) Figure 14 shows the basic functions of a dedicated application program convenient for subleasing monthly-contracted parking spaces, along with its interaction with the subleasing management server. This dedicated application program (hereinafter referred to as the "subleasing app") is prepared to be downloadable from the car-sharing management server or another server managed by that car-sharing management server to the communication terminals of monthly-contracted parking space users (illustration omitted).

[0084] The subleasing app has a means for transmitting rental data for sending rental availability dates and times. This rental data transmission means allows users to skip entering necessary data such as the monthly parking space contract holder's ID and the address of the monthly parking space after the initial input. Therefore, monthly parking space contract holders only need to enter the dates and times they are available for rental, and then submit the data after confirmation. The transmitted rental availability data is received by the data receiving means of the subleasing management server and stored (registered) in the hourly rental database.

[0085] The transmitted data regarding available rental dates and times is registered in the rental database. This is then linked to the built-in clock function of the communication terminal, and an alarm system is activated to alert monthly parking space contract holders based on a set time, such as 30 minutes before the start of the sublease.

[0086] The subleasing app also includes a method for submitting requests to change the lending date and time. It cannot be launched unless there is a record of sending lending data using the aforementioned lending data transmission method. Furthermore, it cannot be launched after the registered lending availability time has passed.

[0087] When you activate the request to change the loan date and time, the registered loan availability date and time data will be displayed, and a screen will appear where you can re-enter the desired date, start time, and end time (a screen for entering the changes). In addition, there is a delete button that allows you to delete the loan availability date and time data instead of changing it.

[0088] When a request to change the loan date and time is sent via the loan date and time change request transmission method, the loan date and time data receiving method on the subleasing management server receives the data, and the change feasibility determination method checks the loan reservation data in the time-based loan database to determine whether the change is possible. Then, it sends a reply indicating whether the change is possible or not. If the change is possible, the modified loan date and time data is registered in the time-based loan database.

[0089] When the subleasing management server's shortage time / location matching means, as shown in Figure 13, transmits shortage time data, the subleasing application automatically starts, and the shortage time data receiving means receives the shortage time data. Then, via the function of the shortage time data output means, the shortage time data is output to the top screen of the monthly parking space contract holder's communication terminal, etc. A screen may be displayed asking whether or not to activate the loan data transmission means (indicated in the figure as a dotted arrow pointing from the insufficient time data output means to the loan data transmission means).

[0090] (Figure 15) Figure 15 shows how the sublease fee calculation method shown in Figure 8 calculates and notifies the landowner and monthly parking space contract holder of the amount of usage fees that hourly users will pay.

[0091] Car-sharing members use a car-sharing service by temporarily providing a car-sharing space to a monthly car-sharing contract holder, and then send departure data. The management server receives the departure data from the communication terminal of the hourly rental user. The usage fee is then settled based on this departure data and the pre-registered member data.

[0092] The fee for a car-sharing member using the car-sharing service is calculated by a sublease fee calculation device based on the contract details stored in the contract database between the monthly parking space contract holder who provided the parking space and the landowner. The calculated distribution amount is then transmitted by a settlement data transmission device to the communication terminals of the monthly parking space contract holder and the landowner. Of course, the calculated distribution amount is transferred through a separate procedure (illustration omitted).

[0093] Examples of distribution ratios in the aforementioned contract include, for example, Car-sharing operators: land owners: monthly parking space contract holders = 80:10:10 These distribution ratios are determined through negotiations between the parties as a prerequisite for concluding the contract, and are reflected in the method for calculating sublease fees (more specifically, the calculation formula) before any sublease incidents occur.

[0094] (Figure 16) In Figure 10, the car-sharing services shown in Figures 6 to 8 offer benefits to landowners, monthly parking space contract holders, and car-sharing operators (and indirectly to car-sharing members). In other words, unless the concept of "subleasing" by monthly parking space contract holders becomes widespread, neither landowners, monthly parking space contract holders, nor car-sharing operators will be able to enjoy the benefits.

[0095] Therefore, it is reasonable for car-sharing operators who run car-sharing systems utilizing "subleasing" to ask land utilization intermediaries, who are entrusted with land utilization by many landowners, to introduce "subleasing by monthly contract holders." In other words, when a land utilization intermediary is entrusted by a landowner with the mediation and management of monthly parking lots, they can then subcontract the management and operation of the monthly parking lots to a car-sharing management system that also handles parking lot management.

[0096] In order to increase the number of subcontracts in this case, it is reasonable to provide incentives to land utilization intermediaries. Figure 16 conceptually illustrates a system for realizing the aforementioned incentives for land utilization intermediaries.

[0097] Examples of distribution ratios in the aforementioned contract include, for example, Car-sharing operators: Landowners: Monthly parking space contract holders: Land utilization intermediaries = 30:20:35:15 Of course, the distribution ratio is determined through negotiations between the parties as a prerequisite for concluding the contract, and is reflected in the method for calculating the sublease fee (more specifically, the calculation formula) before any sublease occurs.

[0098] When a subcontract (a consignment contract for the parking lot manager operating the subleasing system) is concluded between a land utilization intermediary and a parking lot manager operating a subleasing system, the details of that contract are stored in the contractor database.

[0099] The sublease fee calculation method shown in Figure 16 calculates the distribution amount, taking into account the terms of the contract concluded between the land utilization intermediary and the parking lot manager operating the sublease utilization system. The calculated distribution amount is then transmitted to the communication terminal of the land utilization intermediary.

[0100] (Figure 17) Figure 17 is a flowchart illustrating the data processing overview of the car-sharing reservation system. Below, each step will be explained from the perspective of the server (car-sharing management server) to which car-sharing members send reservation search data.

[0101] For the start (S0), user input of reservation search data is a prerequisite. This reservation search data typically begins with specifying the station from which the vehicle will be departed (departure ST). Then, the system searches for an available vehicle for the time the vehicle will be used and the time it will be returned. The type of vehicle is specified by class (not by vehicle number). Departure stations include those that allow vehicle transfers and those that do not.

[0102] The car-sharing management server receives reservation search data from the user's communication terminal (S1). Based on the reservation search data, it determines whether a reservation is possible (S2). If a reservation is possible, it sends a reply to the user's communication terminal indicating that the reservation is possible (S3). After that, it receives reservation confirmation data from the user's communication terminal (S8) and terminates. The steps up to this point are the same as the steps taken by User A to complete the reservation in Figure 3.

[0103] Next, we will explain the steps taken by User B in Figure 3 to complete the reservation. The car-sharing management server receives reservation search data from the communication terminal of user B (S1). Based on the information in the reservation search data, it determines whether a reservation is possible or not (S2). The determination of whether a reservation is possible is that there are no available vehicles at the departure station because it overlaps with a reservation made by user A. Therefore, in S2, the determination is "No," and the process proceeds to S4.

[0104] As shown in Figure 3, User B receives the reservation search data later than User A, but the scheduled departure time related to the reservation search data allows for sufficient time to transport the vehicle to the departure station.

[0105] If it is determined in S4 that the request cannot be fulfilled (No), a message is sent to the user's communication terminal informing them that the reservation cannot be made (S5). The process then terminates. It should be noted that this does not mention more advanced scenarios, such as requesting users to modify the reservation search data. If a request is made to the user, or if the user submits the modified reservation search data, the process will return to step S1. In addition, users who modify the reservation search data will be rewarded with points or other incentives to acknowledge the effort they put into the modification process.

[0106] If it is determined in S4 that the request is possible (Yes), then in S6, it is determined whether or not a reservation is possible. Based on the reservation search data, in addition to determining whether or not a vehicle to be transported can be secured, if there are any optional requests, it is determined whether or not those requests can be accommodated.

[0107] In S6, if the conditions are such that it is possible to handle the situation by transferring the vehicle back to the departure station, then it will be determined that the situation can be handled. If a reservation is not possible in S6, the process will end via S5. If a reservation is available, a message confirming the reservation is sent to the user's communication terminal (S7). Subsequently, the system receives reservation confirmation data from the user's communication terminal (S8) and terminates.

[0108] (Figure 18) Figure 18 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration and data processing procedures for the flowchart shown in Figure 17. Wired communication is indicated by solid arrows, and wireless communication by dashed lines. User-related communication terminals are abbreviated as "member terminals," reservation search data as "reservation data," and the car-sharing management server as "car-sharing management server." The designation "S-1" is added to the car-sharing management server to distinguish it from the example shown in Figure 19.

[0109] A user who is a car-sharing member operates a member terminal to input reservation data and sends it to the car-sharing management server as a reservation data transmission means. The car-sharing management server receives this reservation data as a reservation data receiving means. Then, using the data in the shared car operation management database, the reservation feasibility determination means determines whether or not the reservation is possible (S2 in Figure 17).

[0110] Note that the reservation data received by the car-sharing management server includes a member ID, and the car-sharing management server also includes a member database for verifying that member ID, but its diagram is omitted.

[0111] Even if the vehicle transfer is not performed, if a reservation is possible based on the reservation data, a message indicating that the reservation is possible is sent to the member's terminal (S3 in Figure 17). The reservation availability receiving means on the member's terminal receives this message.

[0112] If the first reservation eligibility determination means that the reservation cannot be accepted unless the vehicle is moved, the decision is then made by the second reservation eligibility determination means (S4 and S6 in Figure 17). In the car-sharing management server, the second reservation availability determination means uses data from the pool vehicle management database and the parking space management database to determine whether a reservation is possible or not. Figure 18 illustrates that a reservation is possible in the case where "returning the vehicle is OK."

[0113] When a member terminal receives confirmation that a reservation is possible from either the first or second reservation eligibility determination means, and the member presses the reservation confirmation button to indicate their intention to confirm the reservation, the reservation confirmation is sent to the car share management server via the reservation confirmation transmission means. The reservation confirmation receiving mechanism on the car-sharing management server receives the intention of a member user and updates the data in the shared car operation management database, the parking space management database, and the pooled vehicle management database.

[0114] (Figure 19) Unlike the car-sharing management server (S-1) shown in Figure 18, Figure 19 shows that the second reservation availability determination means, the parking space management database, and the pooled vehicle management database are all included in the parking management server (S-3).

[0115] In other words, the car-sharing management server (S-2) shown in Figure 19 is simply a car-sharing management server (S-1) shown in Figure 18 with the same server functions as the parking management server (S-3). Member users cannot distinguish between the differences between Figure 19 and Figure 18.

[0116] (Figure 20) Figure 20 illustrates the "transfer" process shown in Figure 5 and other documents, as well as the "retrieval" process, which involves bringing vehicles parked at the station back to a branch office A or similar location equipped with a buffer in the vehicle compartment to prevent overflow.

[0117] A typical "deadheading" operation involves a staff member from branch office A driving a buffer vehicle located at the branch office to a station (in the example shown, Koto Ward 1st, Koto Ward 2nd, Koto Ward 3rd, ...). In this case, a bicycle is loaded onto the vehicle and driven to the station. Upon arrival at the station and parking the vehicle in the designated space, the bicycle or electric scooter is unloaded, and the staff member returns to branch office A riding the bicycle or electric scooter (as shown in the speech bubble in the upper left of the diagram).

[0118] "Out of service" operations can also occur between stations. For example, it may be necessary to send a train out of service from Koto Ward Station 1 to Koto Ward Station 3.

[0119] The typical "collection" process involves a staff member from branch office A riding a bicycle, loading the bicycle onto the vehicle to be collected, and then driving the vehicle back to branch office A.

[0120] If a reservation cannot be handled by a vehicle located at branch office A, the reservation will be handled by a vehicle parked at a designated vehicle pool located a certain distance from branch office A. In addition to staff moving vehicles between branch office A and the pool, vehicles may also be transported directly from the pool to the station or picked up from the station to the pool.

[0121] (Figure 21) Figure 21 is a flowchart illustrating a typical example of a car-sharing vehicle being returned to its departure station to handle reservations.

[0122] The system receives the reservation data (S11) and determines whether the reservation data includes an option request (S12). If the reservation data includes an option request, the system will process it by sending the order back (S16), although there may be some exceptions.

[0123] If the reservation data does not include any optional requests, it is determined whether the request can be accommodated with a vehicle parked at the branch office or pool (S13). If this is not possible, it is determined whether it is possible to use another vehicle at the station where the returned vehicle is located (allocation change) (S14).

[0124] If the vehicle in the returned compartment is available, or if the vehicle can be accommodated by changing the allocation, there is no need to transport it (S15). If the issue cannot be resolved by changing the allocation, the train will be rerouted (S16).

[0125] According to the embodiments described above, subleasing monthly parking spaces to use as temporary car-sharing vehicle spaces, and then transporting car-sharing vehicles to these temporary spaces, contributes to expanding car-sharing services. [Industrial applicability]

[0126] This invention has potential applications in industries such as real estate, parking lot management, manufacturing of communication equipment for parking lot management data, data management in data communications, and development of application software for parking lot control units and parking lot management servers, which promote the effective use of land.

Claims

1. A car-sharing management server that performs data communication with communication terminals related to member users who have completed member registration in advance and obtained a member ID for the use of car-sharing, and data communication with communication terminals related to monthly parking space contract holders, A shared car management database that stores management data related to shared cars, which are vehicles lent to member users, A vehicle space management database that stores vehicle space management data for vehicle spaces at a car-sharing station, including vehicle spaces for renting out the aforementioned shared cars and monthly vehicle spaces for the aforementioned monthly vehicle space contract holders, A pool vehicle management database that stores pool vehicle management data relating to buffer vehicles in a pool area where the aforementioned shared car buffer vehicles are pooled, A reservation data receiving means that receives reservation request data including the aforementioned member ID, date and time data of the vehicle to be used, and the departure location from which the vehicle will be used. A first reservation eligibility determination means determines, using the shared car management database, whether the date and time data included in the reservation request data received by the reservation data receiving means is available for rental. If the first reservation availability determination means determines that the vehicle cannot be rented, the second reservation availability determination means determines whether it is possible to procure a vehicle and park that vehicle, and then determines whether it is possible to rent the vehicle based on the reservation request data using the aforementioned vehicle space management database and pool vehicle management database. A reservation confirmation receiving means that receives a reservation confirmation reply as a result of transmitting the decision result by the second reservation eligibility determination means or the decision result by the first reservation eligibility determination means to the communication terminal relating to the member user, A rental data receiving means that receives rental availability date and time data regarding rental availability dates and times from a communication terminal related to a monthly parking space contract holder, A data update means for updating the aforementioned shared car management database and the aforementioned vehicle room management database, Equipped with, The aforementioned rental availability date and time data includes a contract holder ID that identifies the contract holder of the monthly parking space, The aforementioned data update means updates the shared car management database so that the monthly parking space identified by the aforementioned subscriber ID can be used as a shared car parking space only during the rental period specified in the rental availability date and time data. Furthermore, the aforementioned parking space management database will be updated with respect to the aforementioned monthly parking spaces during the aforementioned rental period. Car sharing management server.

2. A means for receiving rental data availability date and time data, which receives rental availability date and time change data regarding requests to change rental dates and times from a communication terminal related to a monthly parking space contract holder, The rental data availability date and time data receiving means checks whether a rental reservation has already been made for the date and time change data included in the rental availability date and time change data received by the rental data availability date and time change means, based on the data stored in the aforementioned vehicle room management database, and determines whether the change is permissible. Equipped with, The data on whether the change is possible, determined by the aforementioned change feasibility determination means, is transmitted to the aforementioned communication terminal, and if the change is possible, the aforementioned vehicle room management database is updated with the aforementioned change data for the available rental date and time. The car-sharing management server according to claim 1.

3. A customer database containing contact information for monthly contract holders, A car-sharing data disclosure means that makes data on available shared cars for rental, based on the aforementioned shared car management database, available for viewing by member users, A search log database that stores search logs of the aforementioned car-sharing data disclosure means, Sublease performance data extraction means for extracting sublease performance data from monthly contract holders from the aforementioned shared car management database or the aforementioned vehicle space management database, A means for extracting time periods of car shortages, which extracts time periods and areas where car sharing is expected to be in short supply from the aforementioned search log database and the aforementioned subleasing performance data, The shortage time slot / location matching means extracts monthly contract holders who have monthly parking contracts using the aforementioned contract holder database, based on the time slots and regions affected by the shortage extracted by the shared car shortage extraction means, as well as regions where a shortage is expected. Equipped with, The aforementioned time-of-shortage matching method will transmit the time-of-shortage data to the communication terminals of subscribers identified by the system. A car-sharing management server according to either claim 1 or claim 2.

4. A shared car management database that stores management data relating to shared cars, which are vehicles lent to member users who have registered in advance and obtained a member ID for the use of car sharing, A vehicle space management database that stores vehicle space management data for vehicle spaces at a car-sharing station, including vehicle spaces for renting out the aforementioned shared cars and monthly vehicle spaces for monthly vehicle space contract holders, A pool vehicle management database that stores pool vehicle management data relating to buffer vehicles in a pool area where the aforementioned shared car buffer vehicles are pooled, A computer program that controls a car-sharing management server equipped with A reservation data reception procedure that receives reservation request data including the aforementioned member ID, date and time data of the vehicle to be used, and the departure location from which the vehicle will be used, The reservation eligibility determination procedure involves using the shared car management database to determine whether the date and time data included in the reservation request data received in the reservation data reception procedure is available for rental, and If the first reservation eligibility determination procedure determines that the vehicle cannot be rented, the second reservation eligibility determination procedure determines whether it is possible to procure a vehicle and park that vehicle, and whether it is possible to rent the vehicle based on the reservation request data, using the aforementioned vehicle space management database and pool vehicle management database. A reservation confirmation receiving procedure for receiving a reservation confirmation reply as a result of transmitting the decision result from the second reservation eligibility determination procedure or the decision result from the first reservation eligibility determination procedure to the communication terminal of the member user, A procedure for receiving rental data, which involves receiving rental availability data regarding rental dates and times from a communication terminal related to a monthly parking space contract holder, A data update procedure for updating the aforementioned shared car management database and the aforementioned vehicle space management database. The aforementioned car-sharing management server will be instructed to execute this. The aforementioned rental availability date and time data includes a contract holder ID that identifies the contract holder of the monthly parking space, The aforementioned data update procedure includes a car share management data update procedure that updates the car share management database so that the monthly parking space identified by the aforementioned subscriber ID can be used as a shared car parking space only during the rental period specified in the aforementioned rental availability date and time data, and The procedure includes updating the vehicle management data for the aforementioned monthly parking spaces during the aforementioned rental period, and updating the aforementioned vehicle space management database. Computer program.

5. A procedure for receiving rental data availability change data from a communication terminal related to a monthly parking space contract holder, regarding a request to change the rental date and time, The procedure for receiving rental data availability date and time data includes a procedure for determining whether a rental reservation has already been made for the date and time change data received in the rental availability date and time change data, based on the data stored in the aforementioned vehicle room management database, and determining whether the change is permissible. A change feasibility data transmission procedure that transmits change feasibility data, based on the change feasibility determination procedure, to the aforementioned communication terminal, If change is possible, the procedure for updating the rental availability date and time is to update the aforementioned vehicle management database with the aforementioned rental availability date and time change data, We decided to have the aforementioned car-sharing management server execute this. The computer program according to claim 4.

6. A car-sharing data disclosure procedure that makes data on available shared cars for rental, based on the aforementioned shared car management database, available for viewing by member users, The procedure for accumulating search logs made available for viewing in the car-sharing data disclosure procedure, and A procedure for extracting subleasing data from monthly contract holders, which extracts subleasing data from the aforementioned shared car management database or the aforementioned vehicle space management database, A procedure for extracting time periods of car shortages, which extracts time periods and regions where car shortages are expected from the search logs and subleasing data in the aforementioned search log data accumulation procedure, The procedure for extracting time slots with car-sharing shortages identifies time slots and regions with shortages, as well as regions where shortages are expected. This procedure uses a subscriber database that manages monthly subscribers to extract monthly subscribers for these time slots and regions with shortages. The procedure for sending data on insufficient time slots, which involves sending insufficient time slot data to the communication terminals related to the subscribers identified in the matching procedure for insufficient time slots and locations, We decided to have the aforementioned car-sharing management server execute this. The computer program according to claim 4 or claim 5.

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