Vehicle information management system, vehicle number update system, vehicle number update method

Abstract

To provide a system that allows for easy updating of vehicle numbers stored in relation to customer information at vehicle-related facilities when those numbers change. [Solution] A vehicle information management system comprising: a vehicle photography unit installed in a facility related to vehicles; a vehicle information management unit connected to the vehicle photography unit and having the function of recognizing vehicle numbers from captured images and managing vehicle information; and a vehicle information management server connected to the vehicle information management units of one or more of the said facilities and managing vehicle information, wherein when a customer visits the facility, if the vehicle number registered in the customer information management server, which manages customer information for the same customer and is linked to customer identification information, does not match the vehicle number recognized by the vehicle information management unit, the registered vehicle number in the customer information management server is updated.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to, for example, a vehicle information management system, a vehicle number update system, and a vehicle number update method, and particularly relates to a system for updating vehicle numbers registered in a vehicle information management system or other related systems in facilities related to vehicles.

[0002] The "vehicle number" is assigned by the land transportation bureau when registering a vehicle, and may be referred to as an automobile registration number, a vehicle registration number, a number described on a license plate, etc.

[0003] Here, facilities related to vehicles include energy supply points for vehicles such as gas stations, maintenance facilities for vehicle repairs, etc., and stores selling vehicle-related items. (Hereinafter, it may also be abbreviated as vehicle-related facilities.)

Background Art

[0004] In vehicle-related facilities, various measures have been implemented for energy supply such as refueling, vehicle maintenance, and sales of vehicle-related items to improve the convenience of users and the stability of facility management (revenue increase and cost reduction).

[0005] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a vehicle number behavior instruction system that aims to simplify input and manage information associated with vehicles and information associated with customers in association. The system is configured by connecting a vehicle number behavior instruction device, a POS system, and a data center via a network so that they can communicate with each other. The vehicle number behavior instruction device transmits customer information to the data center in association with the vehicle number read via a vehicle detection device, the POS system transmits card number master information to the data center in association with the card number read via a card reader, and the data center creates a conversion table that associates the vehicle number and the card number, and stores the card number master information corresponding to the card number and the customer information associated with the vehicle number as integrated vehicle number master information in a storage unit.

[0006] In other words, the system integrates and stores vehicle number information read by a vehicle detection device installed at the gas station (SS) with customer information associated with the card number read by the POS system, and uses this information to improve customer service and sales promotion activities at the SS. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0007] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2009-151748 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0008] However, according to the technology disclosed in Patent Document 1, once the information has been integrated and stored, there is no plan to appropriately handle the situation when the same customer visits in a different vehicle due to a change in the vehicle.

[0009] When a vehicle is replaced, using the original vehicle number to provide service announcements or conduct sales promotion activities is not only ineffective but may also cause inconvenience to users.

[0010] One way to solve this is to have users voluntarily re-register their vehicle numbers in the vehicle information management system, but such a procedure is complicated and there is a high risk that it will not be followed.

[0011] Therefore, in order to solve the above problems, the present invention aims to provide a system that can easily update vehicle numbers stored in relation to customer information at vehicle-related facilities when those numbers change. [Means for solving the problem]

[0012] To solve the above problems, the vehicle information management system according to the first aspect of the present invention comprises a vehicle imaging unit installed in a facility related to a vehicle, a vehicle information management unit connected to the vehicle imaging unit and having the function of recognizing vehicle numbers from captured images and managing vehicle information, and a vehicle information management server connected to the vehicle information management units of one or more of the facilities and managing vehicle information, wherein when a customer visits the facility, if the vehicle number registered in the customer information management server, which manages customer information for the same customer and is linked to customer identification information, does not match the vehicle number recognized by the vehicle information management unit, the registered vehicle number is updated in the customer information management server.

[0013] In other words, if there is a discrepancy between the vehicle number recognized by the vehicle information management system on the vehicle-related facility side and the vehicle number registered on the customer information management server in association with customer identification information for the same customer, the registered vehicle number on the customer information management server will be updated.

[0014] In this way, by visiting the vehicle-related facilities, vehicle registration numbers can be updated promptly, and the facilities can provide appropriate customer service and conduct promotional activities.

[0015] Here, "vehicle-related facilities" include, but are not limited to, energy supply stations such as gas stations (SS), charging stations, and hydrogen stations, as well as vehicle repair shops and vehicle parts stores, and also include any facility that has any connection to vehicles.

[0016] The "vehicle camera unit" is a camera, and in a gas station, for example, it is preferable to install it near each fuel dispenser, but it may also be installed in other locations, such as the entrance of the facility.

[0017] The "Vehicle Information Management Unit" is preferably a PC installed in, for example, the office of a gas station. It has the function of managing information about vehicles visiting the facility, and is also connected to the Vehicle Photography Unit, which can read the vehicle number from the captured image using its built-in image recognition function.

[0018] The "Vehicle Information Management Server" connects to the vehicle information management departments of multiple facilities and manages vehicle information in an integrated manner, including vehicle number information obtained by the vehicle information management departments.

[0019] Furthermore, it is preferable that the vehicle information management unit or vehicle information management server is connected to the customer information management server, as described later, enabling the exchange of information.

[0020] A "customer information management server," for example in the case of a gas station, is set up by each oil company to manage its own customers. It also provides an application (a so-called oil company app) that has functions such as managing customer information, registering payment methods, issuing discount coupons, pre-setting refueling, checking refueling history, scheduling maintenance, and linking with point cards.

[0021] The original selling app is downloaded and installed by users on portable terminals such as smartphones for use. It has all or some of the functions such as registration of payment methods, issuance of discount coupons (for gasoline, light oil, car wash, car care, etc.), pre - setting of refueling (type of oil, amount of fuel, refueling amount, etc.), confirmation of refueling history, reservation of maintenance (vehicle inspection, oil change, tire change, etc.), and linkage with point cards.

[0022] Here, customers are given customer - specific information, for example, a 10 - digit customer code. The customer code, in the sense of the ID number of the original selling app, may also be called the app ID. In addition, as long as it is for the customer information management server to identify the customer, the name and form (QR code (registered trademark), barcode, alphanumeric, etc.) are not restricted.

[0023] Furthermore, in order to expand services and strengthen sales promotion activities, it is widely practiced to register the vehicle number in the customer information management server in association with the customer - specific information.

[0024] By registering the vehicle number and making use of or linking to an external database, information such as vehicle type, date of first registration, date of next vehicle inspection, etc. can be associated, and using these, effective sales activities (recommendation of vehicle inspection, estimate of vehicle selling price, proposal of vehicle replacement, etc.) become possible.

[0025] As a means of registering the vehicle number, in addition to the method of having the user manually input the vehicle number from the screen of a portable terminal (such as a smartphone), there may also be a method of having the user's portable terminal (such as a smartphone) read the QR code attached to the vehicle inspection certificate.

[0026] In the case of the latter method, since the information described on the vehicle inspection certificate other than the vehicle number is input, there is an advantage that the use of an external database becomes unnecessary or is reduced.

[0027] In addition, the customer information management server can also provide the customer code issued by the customer information management server to the portable terminal in the form of a two-dimensional code such as a QR code.

[0028] Note that instead of the application installed on the customer's portable terminal, a card-like medium that does not use a portable terminal may also be used. For example, the Cosmo Vehicle Card (registered trademark) issued by Cosmo Energy Holdings can be regarded as customer identification information.

[0029] Furthermore, it is assumed in advance that the vehicle number is registered with the customer information management server in association with such a card. Here, the customer information management server may be shared with the server that manages the application installed on the portable terminal, or may be a different dedicated one.

[0030] The vehicle number registered with the customer information management server is identified by having such a card read by a magnetic (or barcode) reader at the gas station (an example of a customer identification information reading unit), and the same operation as the application installed on the portable terminal becomes possible.

[0031] As a means of settling charges such as refueling, credit card information to be used for settlement is input in advance to the original sales application. After registration, when refueling, the customer code (an example of customer identification information) displayed on the smartphone screen is read by a code reader (an example of a customer identification information reading unit) built in or installed in close proximity to the settlement terminal of the fuel dispenser (such as the terminal built in the fuel dispenser for the POS system), and the payment is easily completed.

[0032] Note that as settlement means, in addition to credit cards, it is also possible to use points, etc.

[0033] As for customer identification information, a customer code linked to payment (for example, an ID for mobile payments) is convenient for users because it does not require any additional actions beyond the payment process.

[0034] However, it is also permissible to use a point card containing a customer code for purposes such as awarding points, without linking it to payment.

[0035] Furthermore, applications for users of vehicle-related facilities may be provided not only by the original manufacturer but also by groups of specific vehicle-related facilities or by general retailers.

[0036] Next, as a second aspect of the present invention, in the vehicle information management system of the first aspect, the determination of the same customer may be made based on the fact that the time when the vehicle information management server recognizes the vehicle number and the time when the customer information management server identifies the vehicle number are within a predetermined time period, and that the same vehicle-related facility is being used at the same location.

[0037] Here, "the time when the vehicle information management system recognized the vehicle number" refers to the time when the vehicle photography unit photographed the vehicle and the vehicle information management unit identified the vehicle number, but it may also refer to the time when the vehicle was photographed.

[0038] Furthermore, "the time when the customer information management server identified the vehicle number" refers to the time when, while using a vehicle-related facility, the customer presents customer identification information to the customer identification information reader, that customer identification information is transferred to the customer information management server, and the customer information management server uses that customer identification information to identify the vehicle number. Preferably, the vehicle-related facility is a gas station (SS), the customer identification information is a customer code provided by the customer information management server, and the customer identification information reader is a 2D code reader on a fuel dispenser. Alternatively, the time when the customer presents customer identification information may be used instead of the time when the customer information management server identified the vehicle number.

[0039] Furthermore, "within the specified time" means that the specified time is the time that can be normally expected as the time difference between the two specified times mentioned above, plus a small buffer time. Depending on the layout of the facility, it is preferable to make it a short time, such as within 5 minutes or within 10 minutes.

[0040] Furthermore, "same location of the same vehicle-related facility" in the case of a gas station (SS) preferably means the same store and the same refueling lane, but if there is only one refueling lane, it is sufficient if it is the same store. The same criteria for identity can be determined for vehicle-related facilities other than SS.

[0041] This method allows for a high degree of accuracy in identifying whether the items belong to the same customer.

[0042] Next, as a third aspect of the present invention, in the vehicle information management system of the first aspect, when additional customer identification information is registered in the customer information management server with respect to a customer who has visited a vehicle-related facility, the system may determine, using the additional customer identification information instead of the customer identification information, or in combination with the customer identification information, that the vehicle number registered in the customer information management server does not match the vehicle number recognized by the vehicle information management unit.

[0043] In this context, additional customer identification information may include biometric authentication information (such as facial images, voiceprints, and iris patterns), personal identification numbers (such as My Number), driver's license numbers, and mobile phone numbers, which are provided by the customer in advance and registered on the customer information management server.

[0044] Using this additional customer identification information may eliminate the need to provide customer identification information (transmit customer codes) from the customer information management server, and when used in conjunction with existing customer identification information, it offers advantages such as enabling more precise customer identification.

[0045] In particular, if the customer information management server has registered the vehicle number along with the facial image of the vehicle owner or primary user, the vehicle number and the driver's facial image captured and recognized by the vehicle information management department during the visit can be transmitted to the customer information management server via the vehicle information management server, thereby enabling customer identification.

[0046] This approach eliminates the need for customer action and allows for customer identification without the need to present a customer code, by comparing facial image information previously registered on the customer information management server with facial image information taken during the visit. In particular, since the vehicle number and facial image can be acquired simultaneously by the vehicle photography unit, it is clear that it is the same customer, eliminating the risk of customer misidentification.

[0047] Additionally, "the customer's portable device with built-in GPS functionality" can be used as additional personally identifiable information. In this case, when the customer's vehicle enters a designated area (coordinates) defined by the GPS of a vehicle-related facility, the customer's portable device may automatically transmit customer identification information, such as a customer code, to the customer information management server.

[0048] In this way, if the portable terminal is set up for automatic transmission in advance, no action is required from the customer, and if the designated area and the area where the vehicle camera photographs the vehicle overlap, it becomes clear that it is the same customer.

[0049] Furthermore, in order to estimate that a vehicle has been changed for the same customer, if the vehicle number is not sufficiently recognized, the type, shape, and paint color of the vehicle may be compared to make a determination.

[0050] The specific updates are preferably carried out in the following steps.

[0051] A comparison is made between the vehicle number provided by the vehicle information management system for the same customer and the vehicle number in the customer master on the customer information management server, which is linked to customer identification information (for example, the customer code used during payment).

[0052] As a result, if a discrepancy is found, the customer information management server notifies the vehicle information management server of the details of the discrepancy. The vehicle information management server then sends a vehicle number discrepancy notification to the vehicle information management department at the facility requesting confirmation. At the facility, for example, the vehicle information management department sends the information to a terminal held by an employee, who then confirms the cause of the vehicle number discrepancy with the user.

[0053] At the same time, the vehicle information management server may display a video or still image on a user-viewable display, such as a digital signage screen installed in the facility, informing users that the vehicle number is mismatched and asking whether the vehicle number needs to be updated. This allows users to fully understand the update requirements.

[0054] Therefore, if the discrepancy is due to a vehicle replacement (purchase), with the user's consent, a facility employee will send an instruction to the vehicle information management server from the vehicle information management department to update the vehicle number. The vehicle information management server will then transmit this information to the customer information management server, and the customer master will be rewritten.

[0055] Furthermore, if the reason for the discrepancy is an additional vehicle from the same customer, this will be communicated, and the vehicle number will be added to the customer master. This "addition" will also be included in the "update" process.

[0056] In this way, by having facility staff check for discrepancies, it is possible to prevent problems such as incorrect renewal decisions and erroneous registrations during the renewal process.

[0057] Furthermore, if a vehicle number mismatch is detected, the customer information management server may, either bypass the vehicle information management system or, in addition to bypassing the vehicle information management system, directly request confirmation of the mismatch and approval for the update from the customer's portable terminal. Once approval is received, the customer information management server may perform the update. This is particularly effective for self-service gas stations where employees are not present.

[0058] Here, once the discrepancies are approved and the customer information management server is updated, it is preferable that the information is also fed back to the vehicle information management server, and the vehicle number is updated there as well.

[0059] Next, as a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the vehicle information management system of the first aspect, if it is found that the vehicle number is not registered in the customer information management server when confirming that the vehicle numbers of the same customer match, the vehicle information management system may use the recognized vehicle number to cause the customer information management server to perform a new registration.

[0060] This approach allows for new registrations without the need for the customer's portable device, thus minimizing the burden on the customer. However, it is desirable to include a verification step by the customer to prevent incorrect registrations.

[0061] Furthermore, in order to solve the above problems, the vehicle number update system according to the fifth aspect of the present invention is A vehicle information management system comprising a vehicle imaging unit installed in a facility related to a vehicle, a vehicle information management unit connected to the vehicle imaging unit and having the function of recognizing the vehicle number, and a vehicle information management server connected to the vehicle information management unit and managing vehicle information, A customer information management server receives customer identification information from a customer identification information reading unit installed in the aforementioned facility, and / or additional customer identification information to identify additional customers, and manages customer information. A portable terminal owned by a customer of the aforementioned facility for registering vehicle numbers with the customer information management server. The system includes the following, and is characterized in that, with respect to the same customer, if the vehicle number recognized by the vehicle information management system does not match the vehicle number registered in the customer information management server in association with the customer identification information and / or the additional customer identification information, the customer information management system updates the registered vehicle number based on the recognition result of the vehicle information management server.

[0062] Here, the components of the "vehicle information management system" are equivalent to those described in the first embodiment of the present invention, and therefore their explanation is omitted.

[0063] The "customer identification information" and "customer information management server" are equivalent to those described in the first embodiment of the present invention, and therefore their explanation is omitted.

[0064] The "additional customer identification information" is equivalent to that described in the third aspect of the present invention, and therefore its explanation is omitted.

[0065] A "portable terminal" is preferably a smartphone that can be carried around and connect to a network, but other devices with equivalent functionality, such as tablets, are also acceptable. In some situations, a stationary PC or similar device may be used instead of a portable terminal.

[0066] The portable terminal has an application for facility users (in the case of a gasoline wholesaler, a so-called wholesaler's app) installed, which is downloaded from the customer information management server. This application allows users to register the vehicle number of the vehicle they use.

[0067] The specific method is the same as that described in the first aspect of the present invention, and therefore will not be explained further.

[0068] Furthermore, portable terminals are provided with a two-dimensional code (also called a customer code), such as a QR code, from the customer information management server as customer identification information. In addition to the customer code, various other types of information (additional customer identification information) can be used as customer identification information, as mentioned above.

[0069] When using the facility, such as when refueling, users scan (or touch) their customer code (an example of customer identification information) with a 2D code reader (an example of a customer identification information reader) located inside or near the payment terminal built into the refueling machine. This allows the credit card information linked to the customer code to be read, and payment for refueling and other services to be processed.

[0070] At this time, the customer code is transferred from the 2D code reader to the customer information management server, which then identifies the vehicle number associated with the customer code of the customer currently using the facility.

[0071] In addition, additional customer identification information may be used instead of, or in conjunction with, customer identification information.

[0072] In the event of a discrepancy between the vehicle number recognized by the vehicle information management system and the vehicle number registered on the customer information management server for the same customer, in addition to the method of involving facility employees using the vehicle information management system as described in the first aspect of the present invention, the customer information management server may also directly transmit the discrepancy information to the user's portable terminal, and if the user consents, the customer information management server may update the registered vehicle number.

[0073] Next, as a sixth aspect of the present invention, in the vehicle number update system of the fifth aspect, the determination of the same customer may be made based on the fact that the time when the vehicle information management server recognizes the vehicle number and the time when the customer information management server identifies the vehicle number are within a predetermined time period, and that the same location of the same vehicle-related facility is being used.

[0074] Here, "the time when the vehicle information management system recognized the vehicle number" refers to the time when the vehicle photography unit photographed the vehicle and the vehicle information management unit identified the vehicle number, but it may also refer to the time when the vehicle was photographed.

[0075] Furthermore, "the time when the customer information management server identified the vehicle number" refers to the time when a customer presents customer identification information to the customer information management server via a customer identification information reader when using a vehicle-related facility, and the customer information management server identifies the vehicle number from the customer identification information. A typical example is when the vehicle-related facility is a gas station (SS) and the customer presents the customer code provided by the customer information management server to the 2D code reader of the fuel dispenser. Note that the time when the customer presents the customer identification information may be used instead of the time when the customer information management server identified the vehicle number.

[0076] The same approach applies when using additional customer identification information instead of customer identification information, however, when using additional customer identification information, it may be guaranteed that the time is the same, such as when vehicle number recognition and facial recognition are performed using the same image.

[0077] Furthermore, "within the specified time" means that the specified time is the time that can be normally expected as the time difference between the two specified times mentioned above, plus a small buffer time. Depending on the layout of the facility, it is preferable to make it a short time, such as within 5 minutes or within 10 minutes.

[0078] Here, "same location of the same vehicle-related facility" preferably means the same store and the same refueling lane in the case of a gas station (SS), but if there is only one refueling lane, it is sufficient if it is the same store. The same criteria for identity can be used for vehicle-related facilities other than SS.

[0079] This method allows us to estimate with a high degree of accuracy that the items belong to the same customer.

[0080] Next, as a seventh aspect of the present invention, in the vehicle number update system of the fifth aspect, if there is a mismatch between the vehicle number recognized by the vehicle information management system and the vehicle number registered in the customer information management server for the same customer, the customer information management server may notify the customer of the mismatch within the customer's time spent at the facility.

[0081] In other words, if a discrepancy in vehicle identification numbers is discovered, it is important to notify the customer of this while they are still at the facility and to have them update their information, both from the standpoint of providing appropriate service to the customer and from the standpoint of effective promotional activities from the customer information management server.

[0082] Here, "notifying" means that the information is transmitted from the customer information management server to the vehicle information management system, and in the case of a service station (SS), a confirmation request is issued to an employee nearby where the vehicle is parked, or the information is directly conveyed from the customer information management server to the customer's portable terminal via screen display or audio.

[0083] Furthermore, "within the customer's time spent at the facility" means within the refueling time for a gas station, or within the time spent shopping or dining at a commercial facility. However, it is preferable to be as quick as possible, and if a mismatch in vehicle identification numbers is discovered, it is desirable to notify the customer immediately or instantaneously.

[0084] Next, as an eighth aspect of the present invention, the vehicle number update system of the fifth aspect may further include an information display unit provided in the facility, and the information display unit may display information regarding mismatches in vehicle numbers.

[0085] Here, the "information display unit" is preferably what is known as digital signage. In the case of a gas station, it is built into the fuel dispenser or installed near the fuel dispenser, connected to a vehicle information management server or vehicle information management unit, or a customer information management server, and displays the provided information in a large, easy-to-read format. This allows the customer to be notified of the vehicle number mismatch and what actions should be taken next.

[0086] Furthermore, in order to solve the above problems, a vehicle number update method according to the ninth aspect of the present invention is a vehicle number update system that includes a vehicle information management system having a vehicle imaging unit installed in a facility related to a vehicle, a vehicle information management unit connected to the vehicle imaging unit and having a function to recognize vehicle numbers, and a vehicle information management server connected to the vehicle information management unit of the facility and managing vehicle information, a customer identification information reading unit installed in the facility, a customer information management server connected to the customer identification information reading unit and managing customer information, and a portable terminal owned by a customer of the facility for registering vehicle numbers with the customer information management server, The steps include: The vehicle information management unit recognizes the vehicle number of a vehicle visiting the facility and transmits it to the vehicle information management server; The vehicle information management server transmits the transmitted vehicle number to the customer information management server, The customer identification information reading unit reads customer identification information and / or additional customer identification information from the portable terminal and transmits it to the customer information management server. The customer information management server searches the customer information storage unit and identifies the vehicle number associated with the customer identification information and / or additional customer identification information. The customer information management server compares the vehicle number recognized by the vehicle information management system with the vehicle number associated with the customer identification information. The customer information management server, if the comparison results are inconsistent, notifies the vehicle information management server and / or the portable terminal. The customer information management server, after obtaining customer confirmation, registers the updated information. It is characterized by having the following features.

[0087] If the results of this comparison are inconsistent, the customer information management server will transmit this information to the vehicle information management department at the facility (e.g., a service station) via the vehicle information management server. The service station employee will then either obtain customer confirmation, or the customer information management server will directly notify the customer's portable terminal to obtain customer confirmation, or both. If customer confirmation is obtained, it is preferable that the registered information on both the customer information management server and the vehicle information management server be updated.

[0088] Next, as a tenth aspect of the present invention, in the vehicle number update method of the ninth aspect, The customer information management server receives a download request for the customer management application from the portable terminal. The customer information management server downloads the customer management application upon request. The customer information management server receives customer information and vehicle numbers entered on the portable terminal using the customer information management application, links them together, and registers them in the customer information storage unit. The customer information management server transmits customer identification information associated with the registered vehicle number to the portable terminal. It may also be characterized by having the following:

[0089] In this way, by using a customer information management application, it becomes easy for customers to register their vehicle numbers, and as a result, customer identification information is sent back to the portable terminal. This customer identification information can then be used to easily handle vehicle number updates.

[0090] Alternatively, instead of receiving customer identification information from the customer information management server, or in conjunction with it, additional customer identification information such as biometric authentication (as described in the third aspect of the present invention) may be transmitted from a portable terminal, or without using a portable terminal, to the customer information management server.

[0091] Next, as an eleventh aspect of the present invention, in the vehicle number update method of the ninth aspect, Furthermore, the facility may be characterized by having an information display unit, and having the step of displaying information regarding a mismatch in vehicle numbers on the information display unit.

[0092] Here, the "information display unit" is preferably what is known as digital signage. In the case of a gas station, it is built into the fuel dispenser or installed near the fuel dispenser, connected to a vehicle information management server or vehicle information management unit, or a customer information management server, and displays the provided information in a large, easy-to-read format. This allows the customer to be notified of the vehicle number mismatch and what actions should be taken next.

[0093] Furthermore, in order to solve the above problems, the vehicle number update system according to the 12th aspect of the present invention is A vehicle information management system comprising a vehicle imaging unit installed in a facility related to a vehicle, a vehicle information management unit connected to the vehicle imaging unit and having the function of recognizing the vehicle number, and a vehicle information management server connected to the vehicle information management unit and managing vehicle information, A customer management system for SNS use of the corporation to which the aforementioned facility belongs, A portable terminal held by a customer using the aforementioned facility and The system is characterized in that, when the customer management system using the SNS has registered the vehicle number recognized by the vehicle information management system and the customer identification information that identifies the customer in a linked manner, and the vehicle information management system recognizes that a customer has visited the facility with a new vehicle number, it requests the customer to input new customer identification information using the portable terminal, and if the entered customer identification information is already registered, the customer management system determines that a vehicle change has occurred.

[0094] Here, "customer management system using social media" refers to a system in which a corporation to which a facility belongs manages customers using features such as the friend registration function of LINE (registered trademark). The customer identification information is preferably the phone number of the customer's mobile phone (an example of a portable device), and it is customary to have customers enter their mobile phone number when registering as a friend and link it to their vehicle number for registration.

[0095] Furthermore, the term "corporation to which the facility belongs" can take various forms, such as a single gas station or multiple gas stations under the same management, in the case of a gas station.

[0096] In this situation, if a customer switches vehicles and arrives with a new vehicle number, the vehicle information management system will treat them as a new customer and prompt them to enter their mobile phone number into the customer management system.

[0097] If the entered mobile phone number is already registered and linked to a different vehicle number, it will be assumed that the customer has changed vehicles, and the vehicle number change procedure described above will be carried out.

[0098] This approach allows for enhanced customer management within the corporation to which the facility belongs, and enables effective promotion of services (such as car wash and vehicle inspection recommendations) and information (such as further vehicle upgrades, nearby restaurants, shops, and events) offered by the corporation.

[0099] Next, as a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, the vehicle number update system of the twelfth aspect may further be characterized by having a customer information management server.

[0100] The configuration and functions of the customer information management server are the same as those described in the fifth aspect of the present invention, and therefore will not be described further.

[0101] In this way, if sales promotion activities based on vehicle numbers are conducted using both the customer management system operated by the corporation to which the facility belongs and the customer information management system (server) operated by an external party such as an oil company, the vehicle numbers can be updated in both systems, enabling efficient sales promotion activities.

[0102] In the explanation above, it was stated that the comparison of the vehicle number transmitted from the vehicle information management system for the same customer with the vehicle number in the customer master of the customer information management server linked to the customer identification information is performed in real time. However, the comparison of vehicle numbers between the vehicle information management system and the customer information management server may be performed at regular intervals or at fixed times, rather than in real time.

[0103] In that case, the discrepancy in the vehicle number would be discovered later or on a later date, rather than during the customer's stay at the facility. The facility staff could then obtain information from the customer information management server and contact the customer's portable terminal to confirm the discrepancy and obtain their consent for the update. Alternatively, the information about the vehicle number discrepancy could be shared with the staff when the customer next visits the facility, allowing them to confirm the discrepancy and obtain the customer's consent for the update.

[0104] In this way, even in situations where real-time response is difficult due to the system configuration, it is possible to address vehicle number mismatches. [Effects of the Invention]

[0105] According to each aspect (system, method) of the present invention, when a vehicle-related facility changes a vehicle number stored in association with customer information, it becomes possible to easily update the vehicle number to the new vehicle number. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0106] [Figure 1] A functional configuration diagram of a vehicle information management system and a vehicle number update system according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] A partial plan view of a vehicle information management system according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] A diagram illustrating the configuration of a vehicle information management server according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] A partial perspective view of a vehicle number update system according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] A diagram illustrating the configuration of a customer information management server according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] A sequence diagram of a vehicle number update system according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] A functional configuration diagram of a vehicle number update system according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0107] Hereinafter, with reference to the drawings, a vehicle information management system and a vehicle number update system including the vehicle information management system according to a first embodiment of the present invention will be described. In the following, only the scope necessary for explaining the objectives of the present invention will be schematically shown, and the scope necessary for explaining the relevant parts of the present invention will be mainly explained, with any parts that are omitted from explanation being based on prior art.

[0108] <Structure> Figure 1 is a functional configuration diagram of a vehicle information management system and a vehicle number update system including the vehicle information management system according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0109] For example, a vehicle-related facility 100, such as a gas station (sometimes abbreviated as SS), may be equipped with a vehicle photography unit 11 and a vehicle information management unit 12, which are part of the vehicle information management system 10.

[0110] Figure 2 is a plan view showing the vehicle imaging unit 11 of a vehicle information management system according to the first embodiment of the present invention. In a gas station, the vehicle imaging unit 11 is installed in a location that can photograph the front of a vehicle CA entering the fuel dispenser RD in the direction of the arrow in the figure.

[0111] Furthermore, the SS is equipped with a vehicle information management unit 12. The vehicle information management unit 12 is preferably composed of a personal computer and its peripherals, and receives images of the vehicle CA from the vehicle imaging unit 11 and recognizes the vehicle number using its built-in vehicle number recognition function.

[0112] The vehicle number recognition function is preferably a software (program) installed on the personal computer of the vehicle information management unit 12. However, in addition to being built into the vehicle information management unit 12, the software may also be built into the vehicle information management server 13 described later, or the software may be provided as cloud computing on the internet.

[0113] Furthermore, a vehicle information management server 13 is located outside the SS (service station) via the internet 200, and is connected to the vehicle information management units 12 of multiple SSs, so that vehicle information is managed as a group of SSs.

[0114] Figure 3 is a hardware configuration diagram of a vehicle information management server according to the first embodiment of the present invention, and consists of a CPU 131 that controls the whole system, an input unit 132 that receives information input, an output unit 133 that outputs information, a communication interface 134 for communication with the outside, and a storage unit 135 that stores programs and information, but in particular the storage unit 135 has a vehicle information storage unit 136 that stores information related to the vehicle.

[0115] These vehicle photography unit 11, vehicle information management unit 12, and vehicle information management server 13 are collectively referred to as the vehicle information management system 10.

[0116] Next, the vehicle number update system 20 includes, in addition to the vehicle information management system 10, a customer information management server 21 for managing the SS's customers, a portable terminal 22 owned by the customer, and a customer identification information reading unit 23 built into or installed near the fuel dispenser RD.

[0117] The customer identification information reading unit 23 is located inside or near the payment terminal built into the fuel dispenser for the POS system, and is connected to the customer information management server 21 via or without the payment terminal.

[0118] Figure 4 is a perspective view showing the customer identification information reading unit 23 of a vehicle number update system according to the first embodiment of the present invention. The fuel dispenser RD installed at the gas station is equipped with the necessary equipment for refueling, as well as an operation panel (not shown) for inputting information necessary for refueling and specifying payment methods, a card reader (not shown) for payment, and a customer identification information reading unit 23 capable of reading two-dimensional codes, etc.

[0119] Furthermore, an information display unit 30 (such as a digital signage unit) is provided on top of the fuel dispenser RD, either as part of the vehicle information management system 10 or independently thereof, and is capable of displaying advertising information provided from external sources in the form of videos or still images.

[0120] Figure 5 is a hardware configuration diagram of a customer information management server 21 according to the first embodiment of the present invention, and consists of a CPU 211 that controls the whole system, an input unit 212 that receives information input, an output unit 213 that outputs information, a communication interface 214 for communication with the outside, and a storage unit 215 that stores programs and information, but the storage unit 215 in particular has a customer information storage unit 216 that stores information about customers.

[0121] Furthermore, the customer information management server 21 has the function of providing applications for SS users (in the case of a gasoline wholesaler, so-called wholesaler applications).

[0122] The customer's portable terminal 22 is preferably a smartphone, which can connect to the customer information management server 21 via the internet and download and install the manufacturer's application.

[0123] <Operation> Next, the operation of the vehicle number update system of the present invention will be described. Figure 6 is a sequence diagram of the vehicle number update system according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0124] First, the customer information management server 21 receives a download request for the customer management application from the portable terminal 22. (Step S01)

[0125] Next, the customer information management server 21 downloads the customer management application as requested. (Step S02)

[0126] Next, the customer information management server 21 receives the customer information and vehicle number entered on the portable terminal 22 using the customer information management application, links them together, and registers them in the customer information storage unit 216. (Step S03)

[0127] Here, the method for entering the vehicle number is either to have the customer enter the vehicle number using a key, or to have them scan the QR code attached to the vehicle registration certificate using the 2D code reader function built into their smartphone.

[0128] In particular, the latter is preferable because, by scanning the QR code attached to the vehicle registration certificate, information other than the vehicle number that is listed on the certificate can be obtained.

[0129] Next, the customer information management server 21 transmits a customer code (an example of customer identification information) associated with the registered vehicle number to the portable terminal 22. (Step S04) It is desirable that this customer code be displayed on the smartphone screen in the form of a two-dimensional code.

[0130] Alternatively, instead of sending the customer code from the customer information management server 21, or in conjunction with it, additional customer identification information (such as a facial recognition image) may be sent to the customer information management server 21 from the portable terminal 22 or from the vehicle information management unit 12, etc. This may make subsequent customer identification (whether it is the same customer or not) easier.

[0131] After completing these preparatory tasks, the vehicle information management unit 12 recognizes the vehicle number of the vehicle arriving at the service station and transmits it to the vehicle information management server 13. (Step S11)

[0132] Next, the vehicle information management server 13 sends the transmitted vehicle number to the customer information management server 21. (Step S12)

[0133] Next, the customer identification information reading unit 23 reads the customer code (QR code) presented from the portable terminal 22 (step S13) and transmits it to the customer information management server 21 (step S14).

[0134] Next, the customer information management server 21 searches the customer information storage unit 216 and identifies the vehicle number associated with the customer code. (Step S15)

[0135] Next, the customer information management server 21 compares the vehicle number recognized by the vehicle information management system 10 with the vehicle number associated with the customer code. (Step S16)

[0136] Here, the vehicle information management server 13 obtains the following parameters related to the vehicle: the name of the gas station, the lane number of the fuel dispenser, the time when the vehicle number was recognized, and the recognized vehicle number.

[0137] On the other hand, the customer code read by the customer identification information reading unit 23 and transmitted to the customer information management server 12 allows the server to obtain parameters related to the customer, such as the name of the gas station, the lane number of the fuel dispenser, the time the customer code was read, and the vehicle number associated with the customer code.

[0138] Here, if the SS store name and the fuel pump lane number are the same, and the time when the vehicle number is recognized and the time when the customer code is read are close together (for example, within 5 minutes or 10 minutes, within the normal processing time), then even if the recognized vehicle number and the vehicle number associated with the customer code are different, they will be judged to be the same customer (user).

[0139] If the customer information management server 21 finds that the comparison results do not match, it notifies the vehicle information management server 13. (Step S17)

[0140] Next, the vehicle information management server 13 sends a vehicle number mismatch notification to the vehicle information management unit 12. (Step S18)

[0141] The Vehicle Information Management Unit 12 will inform the employees of the notification by displaying it on a display unit so that employees at the service station can see it, by making an audio announcement so that employees at the service station can hear it, or by transferring it to a tablet or other device held by an employee at the service station. Upon receiving this notification, the employee will visually confirm and / or interview the customer whether it is permissible to update the vehicle number.

[0142] Alternatively, instead of this step, or in conjunction with this step, a video (or still image) confirming the vehicle change may be distributed from the vehicle information management server 13 to the SS information display unit 30 (e.g., digital signage). (Step S19)

[0143] This allows customers to confirm updates by pressing a confirmation key or the like provided on the information display unit 30.

[0144] Next, if the SS employee confirms, or if the customer themselves confirms, that updating (changing, or adding, if the number of owned vehicles increases) the vehicle number is possible, the vehicle number update instruction information is sent to the vehicle information management server 13. (Step S20)

[0145] Furthermore, the vehicle information management server 13 sends update instruction information to the customer information management server 21, and the update is performed as a result. (Step S21)

[0146] If a vehicle number mismatch is detected, the following steps may be performed instead of, or in conjunction with, steps S18 to S21 described above.

[0147] The customer information management server 21 directly requests confirmation of discrepancies and approval for updates from the customer's portable terminal 22. (Step S22)

[0148] Next, the customer sends a reply to the customer information management server 21 from the portable terminal 22 indicating their approval, and the vehicle number is updated as a result. (Step S23)

[0149] Following the steps outlined above will ensure that the vehicle number update is successfully completed.

[0150] Next, a vehicle number update system according to a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. In the following, only the scope necessary for explaining the objectives of the present invention will be schematically shown, and the scope necessary for explaining the relevant part of the present invention will be mainly explained, with any parts that are omitted from explanation being based on prior art.

[0151] <Structure> Figure 7 is a functional configuration diagram of a vehicle number update system according to a second embodiment of the present invention. The vehicle information management system 10 includes a vehicle imaging unit 11 installed in a facility related to the vehicle, a vehicle information management unit 12 that has the function of recognizing vehicle numbers, and a vehicle information management server 13 that is connected to the vehicle information management unit 12 and manages vehicle information.

[0152] Furthermore, the vehicle information management server 13 can connect via the internet 200 to the customer management system 50 that uses the SNS of the corporation to which the facility belongs.

[0153] Furthermore, customers using the facility are carrying portable terminals 22.

[0154] Here, "SNS-based customer management system" refers to a system in which a corporation to which a facility belongs manages customers using features such as the friend registration function of LINE (registered trademark). The customer identification information is preferably the phone number of the customer's smartphone or other mobile phone (an example of a portable terminal 22). It is customary to have customers enter their mobile phone number when registering as a friend and to register it in conjunction with their vehicle number.

[0155] Furthermore, the term "corporation to which the facility belongs" can take various forms, such as a single gas station or multiple gas stations under the same management, in the case of a gas station.

[0156] <Operation> This section explains how to operate with this configuration. A vehicle not registered in the SNS-based customer management system 50 (or vehicle information management system 10) enters the facility, and the vehicle information management unit 12 recognizes the vehicle number.

[0157] Then, the vehicle information management system 10 encourages the user to register as a member of the customer management system 50 that uses social media (such as adding a friend on LINE).

[0158] For example, a QR code for member registration (including vehicle number information) can be presented, and the customer can scan it with their smartphone, allowing for easy member registration.

[0159] Furthermore, customers are encouraged to register their smartphone phone number, and once registered, the system can link and store the customer's vehicle number with their personal identification information (smartphone phone number).

[0160] In this situation, if a customer changes vehicles and arrives with a new vehicle number, the vehicle information management system 10 will treat them as a new customer and prompt them to enter their mobile phone number into the customer management system 50 that uses social media.

[0161] If the entered mobile phone number is already registered and linked to a different vehicle number, it will be assumed that the customer has changed vehicles, and the vehicle number change procedure described above will be carried out.

[0162] This approach allows for enhanced customer management within the corporation to which the facility belongs, and enables effective promotion of services (such as car wash and vehicle inspection recommendations) and information (such as further vehicle upgrades, nearby restaurants, shops, and events) offered by the corporation.

[0163] In this second embodiment, as shown in the figure, there may be a customer information management server 21 including a customer information storage unit 216.

[0164] In this way, operation according to the first embodiment of the present invention is also possible, and the effects of both can be achieved. [Industrial applicability]

[0165] This invention has great industrial potential because, in vehicle-related facilities, it is now possible to easily update vehicle numbers stored in association with customer information when those numbers change, thereby enabling the provision of appropriate services to customers and facilitating effective sales promotion activities. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0166] 10. Vehicle Information Management System 11. Vehicle Photography Department 12. Vehicle Information Management Department 13. Vehicle Information Management Server 131 CPU 132 Input section 133 Output section 134 Communication Interface Section 135 Storage section 136 Vehicle Information Storage Unit 20. Vehicle Number Update System 21 Vehicle Information Management Server 211 CPU 212 Input section 213 Output section 214 Communication Interface Section 215 Storage section 216 Vehicle Information Storage Unit 22 Portable terminals 23 Customer Identification Information Reading Unit 30 Information display section 50 Customer management systems using social media 100 Vehicle-related facilities 200 Internet RD Fuel Dispenser CA Vehicles

Claims

1. A vehicle photography unit will be set up in a facility related to vehicles, A vehicle information management unit is connected to the aforementioned vehicle imaging unit and has the function of recognizing the vehicle number from the captured image and managing vehicle information. It has a vehicle information management server that is connected to the vehicle information management unit of one or more of the aforementioned facilities and manages vehicle information, When a customer visits the facility, if the vehicle number registered in the customer information management server, which manages customer information for the same customer, in association with the customer identification information does not match the vehicle number recognized by the vehicle information management unit, the registered vehicle number in the customer information management server is updated. The determination of the same customer is made based on the fact that the time when the vehicle information management server recognizes the vehicle number and the time when the customer information management server identifies the vehicle number are within a predetermined time period, and that the same vehicle-related facility is being used at the same location. A vehicle information management system characterized by the following features.

2. The vehicle information management system according to claim 1, characterized in that, with respect to a customer who has visited a vehicle-related facility, if additional customer identification information is registered in the customer information management server, the system uses the combined information of the customer identification information and the additional customer identification information to determine that the vehicle number registered in the customer information management server does not match the vehicle number recognized by the vehicle information management unit.

3. The vehicle information management system according to claim 1, characterized in that, when confirming that the vehicle numbers of the same customer match, it is found that the vehicle number is not registered in the customer information management server, the vehicle information management system uses the recognized vehicle number to perform a new registration in the customer information management server.

4. A vehicle information management system comprising a vehicle imaging unit installed in a facility related to a vehicle, a vehicle information management unit connected to the vehicle imaging unit and having the function of recognizing the vehicle number, and a vehicle information management server connected to the vehicle information management unit and managing vehicle information, A customer information management server receives customer identification information from a customer identification information reading unit installed in the facility, or information combining the customer identification information and additional customer identification information that identifies additional customers, and manages customer information. A portable terminal owned by a customer of the aforementioned facility for registering vehicle numbers with the customer information management server. Including the above, if, with respect to the same customer, the vehicle number recognized by the vehicle information management system does not match the vehicle number registered in the customer information management server linked to the customer identification information, or the information combining the customer identification information and the additional customer identification information, the customer information management server updates the registered vehicle number based on the recognition result of the vehicle information management server. The determination of the same customer is made based on the fact that the time when the vehicle information management server recognizes the vehicle number and the time when the customer information management server identifies the vehicle number are within a predetermined time period, and that the same vehicle-related facility is being used at the same location. A vehicle number update system characterized by the following features.

5. The vehicle number update system according to claim 4, characterized in that, with respect to the same customer, if the vehicle number recognized by the vehicle information management system does notify the customer of the discrepancy within the customer's time spent at the facility, the customer information management server notifies the customer of the discrepancy.

6. Furthermore, the vehicle number update system according to claim 4, further comprising an information display unit provided in the facility, wherein the information display unit displays information regarding mismatches in vehicle numbers.

7. A vehicle information management system comprising a vehicle imaging unit installed in a facility related to a vehicle, a vehicle information management unit connected to the vehicle imaging unit and having the function of recognizing vehicle numbers, and a vehicle information management server connected to the vehicle information management unit of the facility and managing vehicle information, A customer identification information reading unit installed in the aforementioned facility, A customer information management server having a customer information storage unit and connected to the customer identification information reading unit for managing customer information, A portable terminal owned by a customer of the aforementioned facility for registering vehicle numbers with the customer information management server. In a vehicle number update system that includes, The steps include: The vehicle information management unit recognizes the vehicle number of a vehicle visiting the facility and transmits it to the vehicle information management server; The vehicle information management server transmits the transmitted vehicle number to the customer information management server, The customer identification information reading unit reads customer identification information from the portable terminal, or information combining the customer identification information and additional customer identification information that identifies additional customers, and transmits it to the customer information management server. The customer information management server searches the customer information storage unit and identifies the customer identification information, or the vehicle number associated with the information obtained by combining the customer identification information and the additional customer identification information. The customer information management server, when it determines that the customer is the same customer based on the time the vehicle information management server recognized the vehicle number and the time the customer information management server identified the vehicle number being within a predetermined time period, and because the same vehicle-related facility is being used at the same location, compares the vehicle number recognized by the vehicle information management system with the customer identification information, or the vehicle number associated with the information combining the customer identification information and the additional customer identification information. The customer information management server, if the comparison results are inconsistent, notifies the vehicle information management server and / or the portable terminal. The customer information management server, after obtaining customer confirmation, registers updated vehicle number information. A method for updating vehicle identification numbers, characterized by having the following features.

8. The customer information management server receives a download request for the customer management application from the portable terminal. The customer information management server downloads the customer management application upon request. The customer information management server receives customer information and vehicle numbers entered on the portable terminal using the customer information management application, links them together, and registers them in the customer information storage unit. The customer information management server transmits customer identification information associated with the registered vehicle number to the portable terminal. The vehicle number update method according to claim 7, further comprising the above.

9. The vehicle number update method according to claim 7, further comprising the step of the vehicle number update system having an information display unit provided in the facility, and displaying information regarding a mismatch in vehicle numbers on the information display unit.

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