Parking lot management system, parking lot management method, and program

Abstract

This parking lot management system comprises an acquisition unit, a vehicle detection unit, an image capture control unit, an owner detection unit, and an output control unit. The acquisition unit acquires an image of a parking slot captured by an image capture device. The vehicle detection unit detects for a vehicle that has been parked in the parking slot for longer than a prescribed time on the basis of images captured at first time intervals. If such a vehicle is detected, the image capture control unit controls at least one of a saving means, which saves captured images in a storage means, and the image capture device so as to be able to acquire images captured at second time intervals shorter than the first time intervals. The owner detection unit detects for the owner of the detected vehicle on the basis of the images captured at the second time intervals. The output control unit notifies the owner if the owner is detected.

Description

Parking lot management system, parking lot management method, and recording medium

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a parking lot management system and the like.

[0002] For example, there are cases where no fee is charged for use of a parking lot at a facility. In such cases, vehicles may be parked in the parking lot for long periods of time for purposes other than use of the facility.

[0003] For example, Patent Document 1 describes a technology for monitoring a parking lot, determining whether a parking violation has occurred, and displaying the determination results on a computer installed in the back yard of a store.

[0004] Furthermore, for example, Patent Document 2 describes a technology for monitoring a parking lot and projecting warning messages onto the direction of travel of a vehicle or onto a window.

[0005] JP 2019-205035 A JP 2017-199214 A

[0006] When a vehicle is parked in a parking lot for a long period of time for purposes other than using the facility, the owner may be notified. However, there are cases where it is not possible to notify the owner of a vehicle that has been parked in a parking lot for a long period of time. For example, there are cases where the owner is overlooked and therefore the owner cannot be notified.

[0007] An example of an object of the present disclosure is to provide a parking lot management system that can more reliably notify owners.

[0008] A parking lot management system in one aspect of the present disclosure includes an acquisition means for acquiring images of a parking space captured by an imaging device, a vehicle detection means for detecting a vehicle parked in the parking space for a predetermined time period longer than a first time interval based on the images captured at a first time interval, an imaging control means for controlling at least one of a storage means for storing the captured images in a memory means and the imaging device so that the images captured at a second time interval shorter than the first time interval can be acquired when the vehicle is detected, an owner detection means for detecting the owner of the vehicle based on the images captured at the second time interval when the vehicle is detected, and an output control means for notifying the owner when the owner is detected.

[0009] A parking lot management method in one aspect of the present disclosure acquires images of a parking space using an imaging device, detects a vehicle parked in the parking space for a predetermined time period longer than the first time interval based on the images acquired at a first time interval, and when the vehicle is detected, controls at least one of a storage means that stores the acquired images in a storage means and the imaging device so that images acquired at a second time interval shorter than the first time interval can be acquired, and when the vehicle is detected, detects the owner of the vehicle based on the images acquired at the second time interval, and when the owner is detected, notifies the owner.

[0010] A program in one aspect of the present disclosure causes a computer to execute processing to acquire images of a parking space captured by an imaging device, detect a vehicle parked in the parking space for a predetermined time period longer than the first time interval based on the images captured at first time intervals, control at least one of a storage means that stores the captured images in a storage means and the imaging device so that images captured at second time intervals shorter than the first time interval can be acquired when the vehicle is detected, detect the owner of the vehicle based on the images captured at the second time intervals when the vehicle is detected, and notify the owner when the owner is detected.

[0011] The program may be stored in a non-transitory computer-readable recording medium.

[0012] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to more reliably notify the owner.

[0013] 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a parking lot management system according to a first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of a parking lot management system according to the first embodiment. FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a parking lot and monitoring of the parking lot. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of connection between the parking lot management system and other devices. FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a parking lot management system according to a second embodiment. FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a predetermined message indicating a notification being displayed on a display device. FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a notification being projected on the rear window of a vehicle. FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a notification being projected on the ground in the traveling direction of the vehicle. FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a notification being made by controlling a lighting device. FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of a parking lot management system according to a second embodiment. FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of a computer.

[0014] Hereinafter, with reference to the drawings, embodiments of a parking lot management system, a parking lot management method, a program, and a non-transitory tangible recording medium for recording the program according to the present disclosure will be described in detail. The present embodiments do not limit the disclosed technology.

[0015] (Embodiment 1) First, in embodiment 1, the basic functions of a parking lot management system will be described. Fig. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a parking lot management system according to embodiment 1. The parking lot management system 10 includes an acquisition unit 101, a vehicle detection unit 102, an image capture control unit 103, an owner detection unit 104, and an output control unit 105.

[0016] The acquisition unit 101 acquires an image of a parking space captured by an imaging device. "Acquisition" here refers to obtaining an image in order to analyze vehicles parked for a long time and vehicle owners in the parking lot management system 10. A parking space is, for example, a parking space in a parking lot where customers using a facility can park their vehicles. A parking space is an individual area in a parking lot where a vehicle is parked. The facility is not particularly limited, but may be, for example, a store. The type of vehicle is not particularly limited, and may be, for example, an automobile, bicycle, motorcycle, or the like.

[0017] Specifically, as a method of acquiring images, for example, the acquisition unit 101 acquires images from a storage unit. The storage unit may be, for example, a database that stores captured images. Alternatively, as another specific method of acquiring images, for example, the storage unit stores captured images in the storage unit. Alternatively, for example, the acquisition unit 101 may acquire images from an imaging device. Note that, for example, the acquisition unit 101 sequentially acquires new images.

[0018] Next, the vehicle detection unit 102 detects a vehicle that has been parked in a parking space for a predetermined time or longer based on the images at each first time interval.

[0019] As a method for detecting vehicles that have been parked for a long time, for example, the vehicle detection unit 102 detects vehicles from acquired images. Then, for example, the vehicle detection unit 102 detects whether the detected vehicles are stationary or disappear by comparing differences between multiple images taken at first time intervals. Note that a more detailed example of detecting vehicles that have been parked for a long time from images will be described using embodiment 2.

[0020] Here, the first time interval is, for example, a predetermined interval. The predetermined time is, for example, a predetermined time. Note that the predetermined time may be set by a facility employee, a security guard, or the like. For example, the first time interval is shorter than the predetermined time. For example, the predetermined time is one hour, and the first time interval is five minutes. For example, if the vehicle detection unit 102 compares images at long time intervals such as the predetermined time, differences may occur even for the same vehicle due to the influence of sunlight, etc. Therefore, for example, the first time interval may be set to a time at which differences between images are unlikely to occur. Then, the vehicle detection unit 102 sequentially compares the images at each first time interval.

[0021] Next, when a vehicle is detected, the imaging control unit 103 controls at least one of the storage unit and the imaging device so that images can be acquired at second time intervals shorter than the first time interval. Here, the first time interval is the time interval used to detect vehicles parked for a long time, as described above. On the other hand, the second time interval is the time interval used to detect the owner of a vehicle parked for a long time. If the first time interval is too short, the processing load will be heavy and a large memory capacity will be required. Generally, it is unlikely that a free parking lot for facility use will require investment in a high-performance processing device or a large-capacity storage device. On the other hand, it is expected that the owner will leave immediately after returning to their vehicle. Therefore, when detecting the owner of a vehicle using images captured at the first time interval, it is expected that the owner may leave during the first time interval, resulting in the owner being overlooked and unable to be notified. Therefore, the parking lot management system 10 uses images captured at the first time interval as the analysis target to detect vehicles parked for a long time, and when a vehicle parked for a long time is detected, uses images captured at the second time interval as the analysis target. To achieve this, the imaging control unit 103 controls at least one of the storage unit and the imaging device.

[0022] First, a case where the imaging control unit 103 controls the storage unit will be described. Here, for example, the storage unit stores one frame of images captured by the imaging device in the storage means at each first time interval. For example, consider a case where the imaging device captures images at 10 FPS (Frames Per Second) from 10:00 to 10:15, and the first time interval is five minutes. For example, the storage unit stores one frame of images in the storage means every five minutes. Therefore, the storage means stores, for example, an image at 10:00, an image at 10:05, an image at 10:10, and an image at 10:15.

[0023] When a vehicle parked for a long period of time is detected, the imaging control unit 103 changes the interval at which the storage unit stores images in the storage means from the first time interval to the second time interval. The interval at which the storage unit stores captured images in the storage means is also referred to as the storage interval. This storage interval is, for example, the interval between capture times of captured images stored in the storage means. Note that a specific method for changing the storage interval may be used, provided that existing technology is used. For example, when the acquisition unit 101 sequentially acquires images stored in the storage means, if the first time interval is 5 minutes and the second time interval is 10 seconds, the acquisition unit 101 will acquire one image every 10 seconds instead of one image every 5 minutes. Note that when controlling the storage interval by the storage unit, the imaging device may capture video or images.

[0024] Next, a case where the imaging control unit 103 controls the imaging device will be described. An example will be given in which the imaging device captures one image every first time interval. For example, the storage unit stores images transmitted from a storage unit in the storage unit. For example, a case will be given in which the first time interval is five minutes and the second time interval is ten seconds. The imaging device captures one image once every five minutes. When a vehicle parked for a long period of time is detected, the imaging control unit 103 controls the imaging device to capture images every second time interval from the first time interval. Note that a specific method for controlling the imaging device may be implemented using existing technology. As a result, the imaging device captures an image once every ten seconds. For example, when the acquisition unit 101 sequentially acquires images stored in the storage unit, the acquisition unit 101 acquires one image every five minutes, but now acquires one image every ten seconds. The acquisition unit 101 may sequentially acquire images from the imaging device. Similarly, when images are sequentially acquired from the imaging device, the acquisition unit 101 acquires one image every 10 seconds, instead of acquiring one image every 5 minutes.

[0025] Furthermore, when controlling the imaging device, for example, if the imaging device captures images at a first time interval and a vehicle that has been parked for a long time is detected, the imaging control unit 103 may control the imaging device to capture a video from the images. Then, the acquisition unit 101 acquires a video instead of sequentially acquiring images from the storage means or the imaging device.

[0026] Furthermore, when controlling the imaging device, for example, the imaging device may transmit one image of the captured images or videos to the storage means at a first time interval. When a vehicle parked for a long time is detected, the imaging control unit 103 may control the imaging device to transmit one image of the captured images or videos to the storage means at a second time interval. For example, when the acquisition unit 101 sequentially acquires images stored in the storage means, the acquisition unit 101 acquires one image at a first time interval, but then acquires one image at a second time interval. Alternatively, when the acquisition unit 101 sequentially acquires images from the imaging device, for example, the imaging device may transmit one image of the captured images or videos to the parking lot management system 10 at a first time interval. When a vehicle parked for a long time is detected, the imaging control unit 103 may control the imaging device to transmit one image of the captured images or videos to the storage means at a second time interval. As a result, for example, the acquisition unit 101 acquires one image at a first time interval, but then acquires one image at a second time interval.

[0027] This concludes the description of the imaging control unit 103. Next, when a vehicle that has been parked for a long time is detected, the owner detection unit 104 detects the owner of the vehicle based on the images taken at the second time intervals. Specifically, for example, the owner detection unit 104 detects the appearance of the owner of the vehicle by comparing multiple images taken at the second time intervals.

[0028] More specifically, for example, the owner detection unit 104 may detect a person in the vehicle as the owner from the images taken at each second time interval. For example, the owner detection unit 104 may detect a person in a seat of the vehicle as the owner from the images taken at each second time interval. The seat of the vehicle may be the driver's seat of the vehicle.

[0029] Alternatively, for example, the owner detection unit 104 may detect a person near the vehicle from the images captured at each second time interval. For example, the owner detection unit 104 may detect a person with their hand on the vehicle door as the owner. Or, for example, the owner detection unit 104 may detect a person trying to open the trunk of the vehicle as the owner. Or, for example, the owner detection unit 104 may detect a person who stays in front of the vehicle door for a certain period of time as the owner.

[0030] When the owner is detected, the output control unit 105 notifies the owner. Specifically, for example, the output control unit 105 may notify the owner via an output device. The output device may be a device installed in a parking lot. The output device is not particularly limited to a display device, a projection device, an audio output device, a lighting device, or the like. An example in which the output control unit 105 notifies the owner via an output device will be described in detail using embodiment 2.

[0031] 2 is a flowchart showing an example of operation of the parking lot management system 10 according to the first embodiment. The acquisition unit 101 acquires an image of a parking space captured by an imaging device (step S101). The vehicle detection unit 102 determines whether a vehicle parked in the parking space for a predetermined time or longer has been detected based on the images captured at each first time interval (step S102). If a vehicle has not been detected (step S102: No), the acquisition unit 101 returns to step S101. Then, when a new image is acquired, the vehicle detection unit 102 detects a vehicle parked for a predetermined time or longer in step S102.

[0032] On the other hand, if a vehicle is detected (step S102: Yes), the imaging control unit 103 controls at least one of the storage unit and the imaging device (step S103).

[0033] The acquisition unit 101 acquires a new image (step S104). Next, the owner detection unit 104 determines whether the owner of the vehicle has been detected based on the images acquired at the second time interval (step S105). If the owner has not been detected (step S105: No), the acquisition unit 101 returns to step S104 and acquires a new image.

[0034] If the owner is detected (step S105: Yes), the output control unit 105 notifies the owner (step S106), and the parking lot management system 10 ends the processing.

[0035] Here, for example, there are cases where there is no charge for using the parking lot of a store such as a convenience store. In such cases, some owners park their vehicles in the parking lot for long periods of time for purposes other than using the store. This may result in an opportunity loss, as customers who use the store are unable to park their vehicles in the parking lot and do not visit the store. This may also cause problems with delivering goods to the store. For example, store employees or parking lot supervisors may visually check the parking lot. However, this places a burden on the employees or supervisors. Furthermore, this may result in misreading. Furthermore, even if an image capture device is used for surveillance and the employees or supervisors check the images, the checking work is a burden on the employees.

[0036] Therefore, in the first embodiment, the parking lot management system 10 detects vehicles parked for a predetermined period of time or longer based on images captured at a first time interval. Here, even if the interval between successive images is long, such as five minutes, it is possible to detect vehicles parked for a long period of time. On the other hand, if the interval between successive images is long, it may not be possible to capture an image of the owner. In this way, the owner who should be notified may be overlooked. Therefore, when a vehicle is detected, the parking lot management system 10 controls the imaging device and storage unit to acquire images at a second time interval, thereby detecting the vehicle owner based on the images captured at the second time interval and notifying the owner. This makes it possible to more reliably notify the owner. Therefore, it is possible to discourage long-term parking. Furthermore, it is possible to reduce opportunity losses due to customers not visiting the store. It is also possible to prevent obstruction to the delivery of luggage into the store.

[0037] In addition, since the alert is made when the owner is detected, the alert can be suppressed compared to when alerts are made continuously from the time a vehicle that has been parked for a long time is detected.

[0038] In addition, compared to when employees or supervisors visually check parking lots, the burden on employees and supervisors can be reduced, thus improving the efficiency of facility management.

[0039] However, the visual inspection of the parking lot by an employee or supervisor may be combined with the notification method in embodiment 1. By combining them in this way, it is possible to more reliably notify the owner of a vehicle that has been left unattended for a long period of time.

[0040] In the first embodiment, the method of controlling the storage unit so that images can be acquired at the second time interval is not particularly limited. In the first embodiment, when controlling the storage unit, the parking lot management system 10 changes the storage interval of the storage unit from the first time interval to the second time interval. This makes it possible to narrow down the images stored in the storage means. As mentioned above, it is unlikely that a free parking lot for facility use will require investment in a high-performance processing device or a large-capacity storage device. Therefore, it is possible to narrow down the images stored in the storage means. Therefore, it is possible to achieve lower costs compared to when constantly storing moving images in a storage means or the like.

[0041] Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the method of controlling the imaging device so that images can be acquired at the second time interval is not particularly limited. For example, when controlling the imaging device, the parking lot management system 10 controls the imaging device to switch from images to video. Alternatively, when controlling the imaging device, the parking lot management system 10 controls the imaging device to switch the interval between images captured by the imaging device from the first time interval to the second time interval. This allows the images stored in the storage means to be narrowed down. Therefore, costs can be reduced compared to when video images are constantly stored in the storage means, etc.

[0042] (Embodiment 2) Next, embodiment 2 will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In embodiment 2, a more detailed example of detecting vehicle stagnation and disappearance will be described. In addition, in embodiment 2, a detailed example of notifying the owner will be described. Below, explanations of content that overlaps with the above explanation will be omitted to the extent that the explanation of embodiment 2 is not unclear.

[0043] FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a parking lot and parking lot monitoring. For example, a parking lot is a place where vehicles of customers using a store can be parked. For example, the parking lot has multiple parking spaces. In FIG. 3, each parking space is represented by a black line. The parking space is not limited to being represented by a line as long as the area can be identified. In FIG. 3, the number of parking spaces is multiple, but may be one, and is not particularly limited. In FIG. 3, the type of vehicle is described using an automobile as an example, but is not particularly limited.

[0044] Also, for example, an imaging device 22 is installed in a parking lot. In Fig. 3, there is one imaging device 22, which is installed in a position where it can image multiple parking spaces. The imaging device 22 images multiple parking spaces. Note that multiple imaging devices 22 may be installed, such as one imaging device 22 for each parking space. However, the fewer the number of imaging devices 22, the more the cost burden of the facility can be reduced.

[0045] 4 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a connection between a parking lot management system and other devices. In FIG. 4, for example, the parking lot management system 20 is connected to an imaging device 22 and the like via a communication network NT. As explained in FIG. 3, the number of imaging devices 22 is not particularly limited.

[0046] For example, the parking lot management system 20 is connected to terminal devices 21 and the like via a communication network NT. In Fig. 4, the number of terminal devices 21 is not particularly limited. The type of terminal device 21 is not particularly limited, and may be a smartphone, a tablet device, a PC (Personal Computer), or the like. The terminal device 21 is, for example, a terminal device 21 of an employee.

[0047] The parking lot management system 20 may also be connected to other devices (not shown), such as lighting devices and output devices such as display devices, which will be described later.

[0048] In Figure 4, one communication network NT is shown as an example for ease of explanation, but the parking lot management system 20 may be connected by a different communication network NT for each device, and is not particularly limited.

[0049] 5 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a parking lot management system 20 according to embodiment 2. The parking lot management system 20 includes an acquisition unit 201, a vehicle detection unit 202, an image capture control unit 203, an owner detection unit 204, an output control unit 205, an identification unit 206, and a storage unit 207.

[0050] The parking lot management system 20 according to the second embodiment has an identification unit 206 and a storage unit 207 added to the parking lot management system 10 according to the first embodiment. The acquisition unit 201 has the function of the acquisition unit 101 according to the first embodiment as a basic function. The vehicle detection unit 202 has the function of the vehicle detection unit 102 according to the first embodiment as a basic function. The imaging control unit 203 has the function of the imaging control unit 103 according to the first embodiment as a basic function. The owner detection unit 204 has the function of the owner detection unit 104 according to the first embodiment as a basic function. The output control unit 205 has the function of the output control unit 105 according to the first embodiment as a basic function.

[0051] The parking lot management system 20 also has a captured image DB (Database) 2001. The captured image DB 2001 is a storage unit that stores images and videos captured by the imaging device 22.

[0052] Next, each functional unit will be described.

[0053] The storage unit 207 stores images of the parking space captured by the imaging device 22 in the captured image DB 2001. For example, the storage unit 207 may store images of the parking space captured by the imaging device 22 at each first time interval in the captured image DB 2001. More specifically, for example, if the first time interval is 1 second and the frame rate is 10 FPS, the storage unit 207 may store the last frame of 10 frames captured in 1 second in the captured image DB 2001. Alternatively, for example, the storage unit 207 may store images of the parking space captured by the imaging device 22 in the captured image DB 2001.

[0054] The acquisition unit 201 acquires an image of a parking space captured by the imaging device 22. As described in the first embodiment, for example, the acquisition unit 201 acquires an image stored in the captured image DB 2001. Alternatively, for example, the acquisition unit 201 may acquire an image captured from the imaging device 22.

[0055] The vehicle detection unit 202 detects a vehicle that has been parked in a parking space for a predetermined time or longer based on images captured at each first time interval. As described in the first embodiment, for example, the vehicle detection unit 202 detects a vehicle from the acquired images. Then, for example, the vehicle detection unit 202 detects whether the detected vehicle has stagnated or disappeared by comparing the differences between the multiple images captured at each first time interval. Here, a vehicle that has been parked for a predetermined time or longer is also referred to as a long-parked vehicle.

[0056] More specifically, as a method for detecting vehicles that have been parked for a long time, for example, the vehicle detection unit 202 detects vehicles parked in each parking space as objects from the image. Then, the vehicle detection unit 202 compares the objects detected from the images at each first time interval. For example, the vehicle detection unit 202 may compare whether there are objects of the same color and shape for the same parking space. For example, the vehicle detection unit 202 may compare the objects detected from the image at 12:00 with the objects detected from the image at 12:05. Furthermore, when a new image at 12:10 is acquired, the vehicle detection unit 202 detects vehicles parked in each parking space as objects from the image. Then, the vehicle detection unit 202 compares the objects detected from the image at 12:05 with the objects detected from the image at 12:10. By repeatedly performing such comparisons, the vehicle detection unit 202 detects vehicles that have been parked for a predetermined time or longer.

[0057] As another method for detecting vehicles that have been parked for a long time, for example, the vehicle detection unit 202 detects vehicles parked in each parking space from the image. Then, the vehicle detection unit 202 can detect whether a vehicle is parked in the same parking space by comparing edge images of the vehicle. Note that comparing the edge images of the vehicle means, for example, comparing binary images of the edges or ends of the vehicle. By repeatedly performing such comparisons, the vehicle detection unit 202 detects vehicles that have been parked for a predetermined time or longer.

[0058] As another method for detecting vehicles that have been parked for a long time, for example, the vehicle detection unit 202 detects vehicles parked in each parking space from the images. Then, the vehicle detection unit 202 compares color information of the vehicles detected from the images at each first time interval. As a process for comparing color information, for example, the vehicle detection unit 202 may determine whether the color distribution, which is the color information of the vehicles, for the same parking space is similar. If the color distributions are similar, the vehicle detection unit 202 determines that the vehicles are the same vehicle. By repeatedly performing such comparisons, the vehicle detection unit 202 detects vehicles that have been parked for a predetermined time or longer.

[0059] Here, the vehicle detection unit 202 may calculate a score for each of multiple methods for detecting vehicles that have been parked for a long time to determine whether the vehicles are the same, and determine whether the vehicles are the same based on the overall score of the multiple methods.

[0060] The output control unit 205 may notify an employee or a supervisor when a vehicle parked for a long time is detected. For example, when displaying a captured image on the terminal device 21, the output control unit 205 may display a vehicle parked for a long time in a manner that allows the vehicle parked for a long time to be distinguished from other vehicles. More specifically, when displaying a captured image on the terminal device 21, the output control unit 205 displays a vehicle parked for a long time in a different display mode from other vehicles. As an example of displaying in different display modes, a vehicle may be displayed in an image with a green frame and a vehicle parked for a long time in a red frame. As another example, the output control unit 205 may highlight a vehicle parked for a long time in an image by surrounding it with a frame of a predetermined color. The output control unit 205 may display images for each first time interval as thumbnails. This allows users such as store employees and supervisors to visually confirm whether a vehicle was actually parked a predetermined time ago, for example.

[0061] Furthermore, the output control unit 205 may notify an employee or a supervisor using the vehicle's identification information. The vehicle's identification information may be detected by the vehicle detection unit 202. Specifically, for example, the vehicle detection unit 202 detects the vehicle's identification information from a captured image. The vehicle's identification information may be, for example, a number included in the vehicle's license plate, or the type of vehicle, the shape of the vehicle, or the color of the vehicle, and is not particularly limited as long as it is information that can identify the vehicle. Then, the output control unit 205 causes the terminal device 21 to display the vehicle's identification information.

[0062] Furthermore, when a vehicle that has been parked for a long time is detected, the owner detection unit 204 detects the owner of the vehicle based on the images acquired at the second time interval. The owner detection unit 204 detects the owner of the vehicle based on each acquired image. An example in which the owner detection unit 204 detects the owner from among people included in the images is as described in the first embodiment, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0063] Next, when the owner is detected, the output control unit 205 notifies the owner, thereby enabling the output control unit 205 to notify the owner that the vehicle is being monitored when the owner returns to the vehicle or when the owner starts the vehicle.

[0064] Furthermore, the output control unit 205 may notify the owner from the time the owner is detected until the vehicle leaves. Specifically, for example, the vehicle detection unit 202 detects the disappearance of a vehicle that has been parked for a long time based on images taken at the second time interval, as described above. Then, the output control unit 205 notifies the owner from the time the owner is detected until the disappearance of the vehicle is detected.

[0065] Next, a specific notification method will be described. For example, the output control unit 205 notifies the owner via an output device. The output device may be a device installed in a parking lot. The output device may be a display device, a projection device, an audio output device, a lighting device, or the like, and is not particularly limited.

[0066] First, an example will be described in which the output control unit 205 notifies the owner via a display device. The display device may be, for example, a signage installed in a parking lot. The output control unit 205 causes the display device to display the notification. Displaying the notification may mean, for example, displaying a predetermined message representing the notification, and is not particularly limited. The output control unit 205 may also display information that can identify the vehicle along with the predetermined message. The information that can identify the vehicle may be an image of the vehicle, or may be, for example, the type of vehicle, the color of the vehicle, the position of the parking space where the vehicle is parked, or the like, and is not particularly limited.

[0067] 6 is an explanatory diagram showing an example in which a predetermined message representing a notification is displayed on a display device. In FIG. 6, the display device displays the predetermined message. In FIG. 6, the predetermined message is "Parked for a long time."

[0068] 6 shows an example in which the number of display devices installed in the parking lot is one, but the number of display devices is not particularly limited. For example, a display device may be provided for each parking space.

[0069] Returning to the description of FIG. 5 , an example will be described in which the output control unit 205 notifies the owner via a projection device. For example, the output control unit 205 causes the projection device to project a notification at a position related to the detected vehicle. Projecting a notification may mean, for example, projecting a predetermined message related to the notification, and is not particularly limited. The position related to the vehicle is not particularly limited as long as it is a position that is easily visible to the owner. For example, the position related to the detected vehicle may be a window of the vehicle, the ground near the vehicle, or a wall near the vehicle, and is not particularly limited. The orientation of the predetermined message is not particularly limited as long as it is easily visible to the owner.

[0070] For example, the identification unit 206 may identify a position related to the detected vehicle from the captured image. For example, in a case where a notification is to be projected onto a rear window, the identification unit 206 may identify the position of the rear window of the detected vehicle from the captured image.

[0071] 7 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a notification being projected onto the rear windshield of a vehicle. The output control unit 205 projects a predetermined message onto the identified position on the rear windshield. The projection device projects the predetermined message onto the identified position on the rear windshield under the control of the output control unit 205.

[0072] 5, for example, when projecting onto the ground in the traveling direction of the vehicle, the identification unit 206 may identify the position of the ground in the traveling direction of the detected vehicle from the captured image. The traveling direction of the vehicle may be identified by the orientation of the vehicle, the movement of the vehicle, the position of a parking space in the parking lot, the positional relationship between the exit of the parking lot and the parking space, etc.

[0073] 8 is an explanatory diagram showing an example in which a notification is projected onto the ground in the direction of travel of the vehicle. In FIG. 8, since there is a store on the windshield side of the vehicle, the identification unit 206 identifies the direction toward the rear windshield of the vehicle as the direction of travel of the vehicle. Then, the output control unit 205 projects a predetermined message at a position on the ground in the identified direction of travel. The projection device projects the predetermined message at a position on the ground in the identified direction of travel under the control of the output control unit 205.

[0074] Returning to the description of FIG. 5 , an example will be described in which the output control unit 205 notifies the owner via a lighting device. For example, a lighting device may be provided in advance in each parking space. The number of lighting devices is not particularly limited. For example, a plurality of lighting devices may be provided along the parking space. The output control unit 205 controls the lighting device so that the notification can be identified. As an example of making the notification identifiable, the output control unit 205 controls the lighting, blinking, lighting color, etc. of the lighting device.

[0075] FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of notification by controlling lighting devices. In FIG. 9, a plurality of lighting devices are installed along the line representing the parking space. In FIG. 9, the plurality of lighting devices are turned off. Then, the output control unit 205 turns on the lighting devices installed along the parking space of the vehicle that has been parked for a long time. In FIG. 9, the lighting devices surrounding the parking space of the vehicle that has been parked for a long time are turned on. As a result, the lighting devices around the vehicle of the detected owner are turned on and the other lighting devices are turned off, so the owner can easily confirm that he or she has received some kind of notification.

[0076] 5 , an example will be described in which the output control unit 205 notifies the owner via an audio output device. The audio output device is, for example, a speaker. For example, the output control unit 205 may cause the audio output device to output the notification as audio.

[0077] This concludes the explanation of the example in which the owner is notified via the output device.

[0078] Furthermore, for example, the output control unit 205 may issue a notification based on the time from when the start of parking of the vehicle is detected to when the owner is detected. For example, messages such as warning messages for each time period may be stored in a table or the like in advance. The output control unit 205 may output a warning message for each time period based on the table. More specifically, for example, if the vehicle has been parked for approximately 10 minutes, the output control unit 205 may issue a notification that the vehicle has been parked for a long time. For example, if the vehicle has been parked for 30 minutes or more, the output control unit 205 may issue a notification that the vehicle has been parked without permission. The notification is not limited to the time from when the start of parking of the vehicle is detected to when the owner is detected, but may also be the time from when the start of parking of the vehicle is detected to when the vehicle leaves the parking space.

[0079] Furthermore, for example, the output control unit 205 may terminate the notification when a vehicle parked for a long time is no longer detected from the parking space. Specifically, for example, the output control unit 205 may terminate the notification when a vehicle parked for a long time leaves the parking space. More specifically, for example, the vehicle detection unit 202 detects the disappearance of a vehicle parked for a long time from the parking space or the parking space based on images captured at the second time interval. Then, when the disappearance of the vehicle is detected, the output control unit 205 terminates the notification. Here, for example, even if images are stored in the captured image DB 2001 at the second time interval, the vehicle detection unit 202 detects a vehicle parked for a long time based on images captured at the first time interval.

[0080] Furthermore, for example, if the vehicle does not leave the parking lot even after a second predetermined time has elapsed since the owner was detected, the output control unit 205 may issue a report using vehicle identification information detectable from the captured image. Specifically, for example, if the vehicle does not leave the parking lot even after a second predetermined time has elapsed since the owner was detected, the vehicle detection unit 202 detects vehicle identification information from the captured image. The vehicle identification information may be, for example, a number included in the vehicle's license plate, or may be the type of vehicle, the shape of the vehicle, or the color of the vehicle, and is not particularly limited as long as it is information that can identify the vehicle. Then, the output control unit 205 issues a report using the vehicle identification information.

[0081] Furthermore, the output control unit 205 is not limited to notifying the owner, but may also notify a facility employee or a parking lot watchman. For example, the output control unit 205 notifies the facility employee or the parking lot watchman via the terminal device 21. More specifically, for example, the output control unit 205 causes an output device of the terminal device 21 to output a predetermined message indicating the notification. The output device may be a display device or an audio output device.

[0082] Furthermore, for example, when the image capture control unit 203 detects the owner of a vehicle that has been parked for a long period of time, it returns control over at least one of the image capture device 22 and the storage unit 207. Here, returning control means setting a time interval longer than the second time interval. The longer time interval may be the first time interval or another time interval. For example, the first time interval may be slightly changed from 5 minutes to 7 minutes.

[0083] The process of returning control will be described using an example where control is performed to switch image capture by the image capture device 22 from images to video. For example, if the owner of a vehicle that has been parked for a long time is detected, the image capture control unit 203 performs control to switch from video to images. The process of returning control will be described using an example where control is performed to change the storage interval from a first time interval to a second time interval. For example, if the owner of a vehicle that has been parked for a long time is detected, the image capture control unit 203 performs control to switch from video to images.

[0084] Furthermore, when returning control, the imaging control unit 203 may return in stages from the second time interval. Specifically, for example, when returning control, the imaging control unit 203 returns in stages from the second time interval to the first time interval. Specifically, for example, if the first time interval is 5 minutes and the second time interval is 1 second, the imaging control unit 203 returns in stages from the second time interval to the first time interval, such as 10 seconds, 20 seconds, 30 seconds, and 1 minute.

[0085] Alternatively, for example, when a vehicle that has been parked for a long time is no longer detected in the parking space, the imaging control unit 203 returns the control that has been performed on at least one of the imaging device 22 and the storage unit 207. The return process is as described above.

[0086] 10 and 11 are flowcharts showing an example of the operation of the parking lot management system 20 according to the second embodiment. In Fig. 10 and Fig. 11, an example will be described in which a parking space that can accommodate one vehicle is provided in the parking lot.

[0087] The acquisition unit 201 acquires a new image of a parking space captured by the imaging device 22 from the captured image DB 2001 (step S201). The vehicle detection unit 202 determines whether a vehicle parked in at least one of the multiple parking spaces for a predetermined time or longer has been detected based on the images acquired at the first time interval (step S202). If a vehicle has not been detected (step S202: No), the acquisition unit 201 returns to step S201 and acquires a new image from the captured image DB 2001. This allows the acquisition unit 201 to acquire images acquired at the first time interval. Then, when a new image is acquired, in step S202, the vehicle detection unit 202 detects a vehicle parked in at least one of the multiple parking spaces for a predetermined time or longer based on the images acquired at the first time interval.

[0088] On the other hand, if a vehicle is detected (step S202: Yes), the imaging control unit 203 controls at least one of the storage unit 207 and the imaging device 22 (step S203).

[0089] The acquisition unit 201 acquires new images from the captured image DB 2001 (step S204). Next, the owner detection unit 204 determines whether the owner of the vehicle has been detected based on the images acquired at the second time intervals (step S205). If the owner has not been detected (step S205: No), the acquisition unit 201 returns to step S204 and acquires new images from the captured image DB 2001. This allows the acquisition unit 201 to acquire images acquired at the second time intervals.

[0090] On the other hand, if the owner is detected (step S205: Yes), the output control unit 205 notifies the owner (step S206). In step S206, the output control unit 205 notifies the owner via the output device. Next, the acquisition unit 201 acquires new images from the captured image DB 2001 (step S207). The vehicle detection unit 202 determines whether the vehicle parked for a long time has left based on the images acquired at each second time interval (step S208). In step S208, the vehicle detection unit 202 determines whether it has detected that the vehicle parked for a long time has disappeared from the parking space.

[0091] If it is determined that the vehicle has not left (step S208: No), the acquisition unit 201 returns to step S207 and acquires a new image from the captured image DB 2001. If it is determined that the vehicle has left (step S208: Yes), the output control unit 205 ends the notification (step S209). Furthermore, the imaging control unit 203 returns control of at least one of the storage unit 207 and the imaging device 22 (step S210). In step S210, the imaging control unit 203 controls so that images can be acquired at each first time interval. After step S210, the acquisition unit 201 returns to step S201. Note that the flowchart may end as appropriate.

[0092] Here, for example, if a parking lot has multiple parking spaces, even if a vehicle parked in a certain parking space for a long time is detected, monitoring is performed to determine whether other parking spaces also have vehicles parked there for a long time. Even if a vehicle parked in a certain parking space for a long time is detected, steps S201 and S202 are repeated separately from steps S203 to S210. Furthermore, when notification to the owner of a certain parking space has ended, it may be detected that a vehicle has parked in another parking space for a long time, and step S210 may not be performed. In this way, the order of each step in the flowchart may be changed or skipped as appropriate.

[0093] As described above, in the second embodiment, the parking lot management system 20 terminates the notification when it detects that a vehicle has left the parking space. This allows the notification to be made between the time the owner is near or inside the vehicle and the time the vehicle leaves the parking space, thereby reducing notification compared to when a continuous notification is made from the time a vehicle is detected as having been parked for a long time. In this way, suppressing notification allows necessary notifications to be made even with a smaller number of output devices. Therefore, when notifications are made via output devices, the number of output devices relative to the number of parking spaces can be reduced. Furthermore, when it detects that a detected vehicle has left the parking space, the parking lot management system 20 returns control to at least one of the storage unit 207 and the image capture device 22. This allows the images stored in the storage unit to be narrowed down when captured images are stored in a storage unit such as the captured image DB 2001. Therefore, costs can be reduced compared to when moving images are continuously stored in a storage unit or the like.

[0094] Furthermore, when the owner is detected, the parking lot management system 20 returns control to at least one of the storage unit 207 and the image capture device 22. This allows the images to be narrowed down when the captured images are stored in the storage means. This allows for lower costs compared to storing moving images continuously in the storage means.

[0095] The parking lot management system 20 also notifies the owner of the parking lot via an output device installed in the parking lot. For example, the output device is a display device. By displaying the notification on the display device, the owner can more easily confirm that they are being monitored. This can therefore discourage long-term parking.

[0096] For example, the output device is a projection device. The parking lot management system 20 causes the projection device to project a notification at a position related to the detected vehicle. The position may be the vehicle's window glass or the ground in the direction of the vehicle's travel. This makes it easier for the owner to confirm that they are being monitored. Therefore, it is possible to discourage long-term parking.

[0097] For example, the output device is a lighting device. The parking lot management system 20 controls the lighting device so that it is possible to identify that the output device is a warning. This makes it easier for the owner to confirm that they are being monitored. Therefore, it is possible to discourage long-term parking.

[0098] Furthermore, when a vehicle that has been parked for a long time is detected, the parking lot management system 20 notifies at least one of an employee and a supervisor of the facility that has the parking space, so that the employee and supervisor can check for a vehicle that has been parked for a long time even if they are not constantly monitoring the facility.

[0099] Furthermore, when the owner of a vehicle that has been parked for a long time is detected, the parking lot management system 20 notifies at least one of the employees and supervisors of the facility that has the parking space, so that the employees and supervisors can confirm the owner of the vehicle that has been parked for a long time even if they are not constantly monitoring.

[0100] This concludes the description of each embodiment. Each embodiment may be modified and used. Each embodiment may be used in appropriate combination. Furthermore, in each embodiment, the parking lot management system may be configured to include some of the functional units and information.

[0101] Furthermore, the embodiments are not limited to the examples described above and can be modified in various ways. Furthermore, the configuration of the parking lot management system in each embodiment is not particularly limited. For example, the parking lot management system may be realized by a single device, such as a single terminal device or a single server. For example, if each functional unit of the parking lot management system is realized by a single device, the single device may be called, for example, a parking lot management device or an information processing device. Alternatively, the parking lot management system in each embodiment may be realized by different devices for different functions or data. For example, each functional unit of the parking lot management system may be configured by multiple servers. For example, the parking lot management system 20 according to the second embodiment may be realized by a database server including the storage unit 207 and the captured image DB 2001, and a server having each functional unit other than the storage unit 207.

[0102] In each embodiment, each piece of information or each DB may include a portion of the information described above. Also, each piece of information or each DB may include information other than the information described above. Each piece of information or each DB may be divided into more detailed pieces of information or multiple DBs. In this way, the method for realizing each piece of information or each DB is not particularly limited.

[0103] In addition, for example, in each embodiment, the process of generating screen information to be displayed on the terminal device may be performed by an output control unit of the parking lot management system. Also, this process may be performed by the terminal device.

[0104] (Example of computer hardware configuration) Next, an example of a hardware configuration when each device, such as the parking lot management systems 10, 20 and the terminal device 21 described in each embodiment, is realized by a computer will be described. Fig. 12 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a computer hardware configuration. For example, some or all of each device can be realized using any combination of a computer 80 and a program as shown in Fig. 12.

[0105] The computer 80 includes, for example, a processor 801, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 802, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 803, and a storage device 804. The computer 80 also includes a communication interface 805 and an input / output interface 806. The components are connected to each other, for example, via a bus 807. The number of each component is not particularly limited, and there may be one or more of each component.

[0106] The processor 801 controls the entire computer 80. Examples of the processor 801 include a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), and a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit). The computer 80 includes a storage unit such as a ROM 802, a RAM 803, and a storage device 804. Examples of the storage device 804 include a semiconductor memory such as a flash memory, a hard disk drive (HDD), and a solid state drive (SSD). For example, the storage device 804 stores an operating system (OS) program, application programs, and programs according to the embodiments. Alternatively, the ROM 802 stores application programs and programs according to the embodiments. The RAM 803 is used as a work area for the processor 801 .

[0107] The processor 801 also loads programs stored in the storage device 804, ROM 802, etc. The processor 801 then executes each process coded in the program. The processor 801 may also download various programs via the communication network NT. The processor 801 also functions as a part or all of the computer 80. The processor 801 may then execute the processes or instructions in the illustrated flowchart based on the program.

[0108] The communication interface 805 is connected to a communication network NT such as a LAN (Local Area Network) or a WAN (Wide Area Network) via a wireless or wired communication line. The communication network NT may be composed of multiple communication networks NT. As a result, the computer 80 is connected to external devices and external computers 80 via the communication networks NT. The communication interface 805 serves as an interface between the communication network NT and the inside of the computer 80. The communication interface 805 also controls the input and output of data from external devices and external computers 80.

[0109] Furthermore, the input / output interface 806 is connected to at least one of an input device, an output device, and an input / output device. The connection method may be wireless or wired. Examples of the input device include a keyboard, a mouse, and a microphone. Examples of the output device include a display device, a lighting device, and a speaker that outputs audio. Examples of the input / output device include a touch panel display. Note that the input device, output device, and input / output device may be built into the computer 80 or may be external.

[0110] The hardware configuration of the computer 80 is an example. The computer 80 may have some of the components shown in FIG. 12 . The computer 80 may have components other than those shown in FIG. 12 . For example, the computer 80 may have a drive device or the like. The processor 801 may then read programs and data stored on a recording medium attached to the drive device or the like into the RAM 803. Examples of non-transitory tangible recording media include optical disks, flexible disks, magneto-optical disks, and USB (Universal Serial Bus) memories. As described above, the computer 80 may have input devices such as a keyboard and a mouse. The computer 80 may have an output device such as a display. The computer 80 may also have an input device, an output device, and an input / output device.

[0111] The computer 80 may also include various sensors (not shown). The types of sensors are not particularly limited. The computer 80 may also include an imaging device capable of capturing images or videos.

[0112] This concludes the description of the hardware configuration of each device. There are various variations in the method of realizing each device. For example, each device may be realized by any combination of a different computer and program for each component. Furthermore, multiple components of each device may be realized by any combination of a single computer and program.

[0113] Furthermore, some or all of the components of each device may be realized by circuits for specific applications. Furthermore, some or all of the components of each device may be realized by general-purpose circuits including a processor such as an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array). Furthermore, some or all of the components of each device may be realized by a combination of circuits for specific applications and general-purpose circuits. Furthermore, these circuits may be a single integrated circuit. Alternatively, these circuits may be divided into multiple integrated circuits. The multiple integrated circuits may be connected via a bus or the like.

[0114] Furthermore, when some or all of the components of each device are realized by a plurality of computers, circuits, etc., the plurality of computers, circuits, etc. may be centrally located or distributed.

[0115] The parking lot management method described in each embodiment is realized by execution by a parking lot management system. Furthermore, for example, the parking lot management method is realized by execution of a pre-prepared program by a computer such as a server or terminal device. The program described in each embodiment is recorded on a computer-readable recording medium such as an HDD, SSD, flexible disk, optical disk, magneto-optical disk, or USB memory. The program is then read from the recording medium and executed by the computer. Furthermore, the program may be distributed via a communication network NT.

[0116] Each component of the parking lot management system in each embodiment described above may have its functions realized by dedicated hardware, like a computer, or by software, or by a combination of hardware and software.

[0117] Although the present disclosure has been described above with reference to various embodiments, the present disclosure is not limited to the above embodiments. The configuration and details of each of the present disclosures may include embodiments to which various modifications that would be apparent to those skilled in the art are applied within the scope of the present disclosure. The present disclosure may also include embodiments in which the details described herein are appropriately combined or substituted as necessary. For example, details described using a particular embodiment may also be applied to other embodiments to the extent that no contradiction occurs. For example, although multiple operations are described in sequence in the form of a flowchart, the order of the descriptions does not limit the order in which the multiple operations are performed. Therefore, when implementing each embodiment, the order of the multiple operations may be changed as long as it does not interfere with the content.

[0118] Some or all of the above-described embodiments can be described as follows: However, some or all of the above-described embodiments are not limited to the following.

[0119] (Supplementary Note 1) A parking lot management system comprising: an acquisition means for acquiring images of a parking space captured by an imaging device; a vehicle detection means for detecting a vehicle parked in the parking space for a predetermined time period longer than a first time interval based on the images captured at first time intervals; an imaging control means for controlling at least one of the imaging device and a storage means for storing the captured images in a storage means so that the images captured at second time intervals shorter than the first time interval can be acquired when the vehicle is detected; an owner detection means for detecting the owner of the vehicle based on the images captured at the second time interval when the vehicle is detected; and an output control means for notifying the owner when the owner is detected. (Supplementary Note 2) The parking lot management system according to Supplementary Note 1, wherein the imaging control means, when controlling the storage means, controls the storage means so that the interval at which the captured images are stored in the storage means changes from the first time interval to the second time interval. (Supplementary Note 3) The parking lot management system according to Supplementary Note 1, wherein the imaging control means, when controlling the imaging device, controls to switch the imaging by the imaging device from images to videos. (Supplementary Note 4) The parking lot management system according to Supplementary Note 1, wherein the imaging control means, when controlling the imaging device, controls to switch the interval between images captured by the imaging device from the first time interval to the second time interval. (Supplementary Note 5) The parking lot management system according to any of Supplements 1 to 4, wherein the vehicle detection means further detects that the detected vehicle has left the parking space based on the images captured at the second time interval, and the output control means terminates the notification when it is detected that the vehicle has left the parking space. (Supplementary Note 6) The parking lot management system according to Supplementary Note 5, wherein the imaging control means returns the control over at least one of the storage means and the imaging device when it is detected that the detected vehicle has left the parking space. (Supplementary Note 7) The parking lot management system according to any of Supplements 1 to 4, wherein the imaging control means returns the control over at least one of the storage means and the imaging device when it is detected that the owner has been detected.(Supplementary Note 8) The parking lot management system according to any one of Supplements 1 to 7, wherein the output control means notifies the owner via an output device installed in the parking lot including the parking space. (Supplementary Note 9) The parking lot management system according to Supplementary Note 8, wherein the output device is a display device, and the output control means causes the display device to display the notification. (Supplementary Note 10) The parking lot management system according to Supplementary Note 8, wherein the output device is a projection device, and the output control means causes the projection device to project the notification at a position related to the detected vehicle. (Supplementary Note 11) The parking lot management system according to Supplementary Note 8, wherein the output device is a lighting device, and the output control means controls the lighting device so that the notification can be identified. (Supplementary Note 12) The parking lot management system according to any one of Supplements 1 to 11, wherein the output control means notifies at least one of an employee and a monitor of the facility which has the parking space when the vehicle is detected. (Supplementary Note 13) The parking lot management system according to any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 11, wherein the output control means, when the owner is detected, notifies at least one of an employee of a facility having the parking space and a monitor. (Supplementary Note 14) A parking lot management method comprising: acquiring images of a parking space by an imaging device; detecting a vehicle parked in the parking space for a predetermined time period longer than the first time interval based on the images captured at first time intervals; controlling at least one of a storage means that stores the captured images in a storage means and the imaging device so as to be able to acquire images captured at second time intervals shorter than the first time interval when the vehicle is detected; detecting the owner of the vehicle based on the images captured at the second time interval when the vehicle is detected; and notifying the owner when the owner is detected.(Supplementary Note 15) A non-transitory computer-readable recording medium that records a program that causes a computer to execute the following processes: acquire images of a parking space captured by an imaging device; detect a vehicle parked in the parking space for a predetermined time period longer than the first time interval based on the images captured at first time intervals; control at least one of a storage means that stores the captured images in a storage means and the imaging device so that the images captured at second time intervals shorter than the first time interval can be acquired when the vehicle is detected; detect an owner of the vehicle based on the images captured at the second time intervals when the vehicle is detected; and notify the owner when the owner is detected. (Supplementary Note 16) A program that causes a computer to execute the following processes: acquire images of a parking space captured by an imaging device; detect a vehicle parked in the parking space for a predetermined time period longer than the first time interval based on the images captured at first time intervals; control at least one of a storage means that stores the captured images in a storage means and the imaging device so that the images captured at second time intervals shorter than the first time interval can be acquired when the vehicle is detected; detect an owner of the vehicle based on the images captured at the second time intervals when the vehicle is detected; and notify the owner when the owner is detected.

[0120] 10, 20 Parking lot management system 21 Terminal device 22 Imaging device 80 Computer 101, 201 Acquisition unit 102, 202 Vehicle detection unit 103, 203 Imaging control unit 104, 204 Owner detection unit 105, 205 Output control unit 206 Identification unit 207 Storage unit 2001 Captured image DB 801 Processor 802 ROM 803 RAM 804 Storage device 805 Communication interface 806 Input / output interface 807 Bus NT Communication network

Claims

1. An acquisition means for acquiring an image of a parking space captured by an imaging device; A vehicle detection means for detecting a vehicle that has been parked in the parking space for a predetermined time period longer than the first time interval based on the images captured at each first time interval; an imaging control means for controlling at least one of a storage means for storing the captured images in a storage means and the imaging device so that the images captured at a second time interval shorter than the first time interval can be acquired when the vehicle is detected; an owner detection means for detecting an owner of the vehicle based on the images captured at the second time intervals when the vehicle is detected; an output control means for notifying the owner when the owner is detected; A parking lot management system comprising:

2. the imaging control means controls the storage means so that an interval at which the captured images are stored in the storage means changes from the first time interval to the second time interval when the imaging control means controls the storage means. The parking lot management system according to claim 1.

3. The imaging control means performs control for switching imaging by the imaging device from an image to a video when controlling the imaging device. The parking lot management system according to claim 1.

4. the imaging control means, when controlling the imaging device, performs control to switch an interval for imaging by the imaging device from the first time interval to the second time interval; The parking lot management system according to claim 1.

5. The vehicle detection means further detects that the detected vehicle has left the parking space based on the images captured at the second time intervals, The output control means terminates the notification when it is detected that the vehicle has left the parking frame. The parking lot management system according to claim 1.

6. When it is detected that the detected vehicle has left the parking frame, the imaging control means returns the control to at least one of the storage means and the imaging device. The parking lot management system according to claim 5.

7. when the owner is detected, the imaging control means returns the control to at least one of the storage means and the imaging device. The parking lot management system according to claim 1.

8. The output control means notifies the owner via an output device installed in a parking lot including the parking space. A parking lot management system according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

9. A computer comprising: An image of the parking space is acquired by an imaging device, Detecting a vehicle parked in the parking space for a predetermined time longer than the first time interval based on the images captured at the first time interval; When the vehicle is detected, at least one of a storage means for storing the captured images in a storage means and the imaging device is controlled so that the images captured at second time intervals shorter than the first time interval can be acquired. When the vehicle is detected, an owner of the vehicle is detected based on the images captured at the second time intervals; notifying the owner when the owner is detected; A parking lot management method for performing processing.

10. On the computer, An image of the parking space is acquired by an imaging device, Detecting a vehicle parked in the parking space for a predetermined time longer than the first time interval based on the images captured at the first time interval; When the vehicle is detected, at least one of a storage means for storing the captured images in a storage means and the imaging device is controlled so that the images captured at second time intervals shorter than the first time interval can be acquired. When the vehicle is detected, an owner of the vehicle is detected based on the images captured at the second time intervals; notifying the owner when the owner is detected; A program that executes a process.