Information processing device, information processing method, and program

Abstract

An information processing device (100) is provided with a simulation unit (103) and a range estimation unit (104). The simulation unit (103) uses actual travel data of a first vehicle, which uses fuel as the energy source thereof, associated with the target base, to perform a simulation pertaining to the power to be consumed when a second vehicle, which uses electricity as the energy source thereof, travels in accordance with the actual travel data. The range estimation unit (104) uses the result of the simulation to estimate a travelable range in accordance with a plurality of stage-specific criteria pertaining to the power shortage risk.

Description

Information processing device, information processing method, and recording medium

[0001] The present invention relates to an information processing device, an information processing method, and a recording medium.

[0002] Patent document 1 describes an operation plan creation support device that predicts the actual operation for a given provisional timetable from the predicted values ​​of running time, power consumption, and charging time.

[0003] JP 2015-138501 A

[0004] However, even if trains are operated according to the provisional timetable, it may be difficult to actually operate the trains according to the provisional timetable. In such cases where it is not possible to actually operate the trains according to the provisional timetable, there is a problem that the accuracy of the predicted values ​​described in Patent Document 1 decreases.

[0005] In view of the above-mentioned problems, one example of the object of the present invention is to provide an information processing device, an information processing method, a recording medium, etc. that can accurately estimate the driving range of a vehicle that uses electricity as an energy source.

[0006] According to one aspect of the present invention, an information processing device is provided that includes: a simulation means that uses actual driving data of a first vehicle that uses fuel as an energy source and is associated with a target base to perform a simulation regarding the power that a second vehicle that uses electricity as an energy source will consume when driven in accordance with the actual driving data; and a range estimation means that uses the results of the simulation to estimate a driving range according to multiple stage-based criteria regarding the risk of running out of power.

[0007] According to one aspect of the present invention, an information processing method is provided in which one or more computers use actual driving data of a first vehicle that uses fuel as an energy source and is associated with a target base to perform a simulation regarding the power that a second vehicle that uses electricity as an energy source will consume when driven in accordance with the actual driving data, and use the results of the simulation to estimate a driving range according to multiple stage-based criteria regarding the risk of running out of power.

[0008] According to one aspect of the present invention, a recording medium is provided having recorded thereon a program for causing one or more computers to use actual driving data of a first vehicle that uses fuel as an energy source and is associated with a target base to perform a simulation regarding the power that a second vehicle that uses electricity as an energy source would consume if it were to drive in accordance with the actual driving data, and to use the results of the simulation to estimate a driving range according to multiple stage-based criteria regarding the risk of running out of power.

[0009] According to one aspect of the present invention, it is possible to accurately estimate the driving range of a vehicle that uses electricity as its energy source.

[0010] 1 is a diagram illustrating an overview of an information processing device according to the present disclosure. FIG. 2 is a flowchart illustrating an overview of information processing according to the present disclosure. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of the functional configuration of an information processing device according to the present disclosure. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of the physical configuration of an information processing device according to the present disclosure. FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an example of information processing according to the present disclosure. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display of a driving range according to a stage-based standard where the remaining capacity percentage is 50%. FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display of a driving range according to a stage-based standard where the remaining capacity percentage is 27.5%. FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display of a driving range according to a stage-based standard where the remaining capacity percentage is 20%. FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display of a driving range according to a plurality of stage-based standards. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display of a plurality of coverage areas.

[0011] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In all drawings, similar components are denoted by similar reference numerals, and descriptions thereof will be omitted as appropriate. In this disclosure, the drawings relate to one or more embodiments.

[0012] [Overview] As shown in FIG. 1 , an information processing device 100 according to the present disclosure includes a simulation unit 103 and a range estimation unit 104 .

[0013] The simulation unit 103 uses actual driving data of a first vehicle that uses fuel as an energy source and is associated with the target base to perform a simulation of the electricity that will be consumed when a second vehicle that uses electricity as an energy source drives in accordance with the actual driving data.

[0014] The range estimation unit 104 uses the results of the simulation to estimate a driving range according to a plurality of stage-specific criteria related to the risk of running out of power.

[0015] According to this information processing device 100, it is possible to accurately estimate the driving range of a vehicle that uses electricity as its energy source.

[0016] The information processing according to the present disclosure generally includes the processing shown in the flowchart of FIG.

[0017] The simulation unit 103 uses actual driving data of a first vehicle that uses fuel as an energy source and is associated with the target base to perform a simulation of the electricity that will be consumed when a second vehicle that uses electricity as an energy source drives in accordance with the actual driving data (step S103).

[0018] The range estimation unit 104 uses the results of the simulation to estimate a driving range according to a plurality of graded criteria related to the risk of running out of power (step S104).

[0019] This information processing makes it possible to accurately estimate the driving range of a vehicle that uses electricity as its energy source.

[0020] Hereinafter, detailed examples of the information processing device 100, information processing, etc. according to the present disclosure will be described.

[0021] [Embodiment 1] An information processing device 100 according to the present disclosure is a device that estimates the relationship between the risk of running out of power of a second vehicle and the driving range when the second vehicle is used instead of a first vehicle associated with a target base.

[0022] The first vehicle is a vehicle used for business purposes and uses fuel as an energy source. The fuel may be, for example, a fossil fuel, such as diesel, gasoline, or LPG (liquefied petroleum gas). Note that the fuel is not limited to the examples given here.

[0023] The second vehicle is a vehicle that is used in place of the first vehicle for business purposes and uses electricity as its energy source, such as an electric vehicle, a fuel cell vehicle, or a hybrid car.

[0024] When a second vehicle is used instead of a first vehicle, it is desirable to be able to know in advance the range over which the second vehicle can travel without running out of power (the rechargeable battery installed in the second vehicle running out of power). Therefore, the information processing device 100 estimates the relationship between the risk of the second vehicle running out of power and the range over which the second vehicle can travel when the second vehicle is used instead of the first vehicle associated with the target base.

[0025] The businesses in which the first vehicle is used include, for example, transportation businesses such as home delivery, moving businesses that transport luggage to new residences, etc. Note that the businesses are not limited to those exemplified here, as long as they use a vehicle for business purposes.

[0026] The target base is a location where the vehicle is stored, a location where the vehicle is refueled with at least one of fuel and electricity, a location where parcels such as home deliveries are collected and delivered, etc. The target base is associated with the first vehicle, for example, as a location where the first vehicle is stored, refueled, or where parcels are collected and delivered.

[0027] It should be noted that examples of the target base are not limited to those exemplified here, and the manner in which the target base and the first vehicle are associated with each other is not limited to those exemplified here.

[0028] (Example of functional configuration of information processing device 100) As shown in FIG. 3 , the information processing device 100 functionally includes, for example, an actual driving data acquisition unit 101, a model data acquisition unit 102, a simulation unit 103, a range estimation unit 104, a display unit 105, and a display control unit 106.

[0029] The actual driving data acquisition unit 101 acquires at least one piece of actual driving data.

[0030] The actual driving data is data relating to the driving of the first vehicle that was actually driven for the purpose of carrying out the business.

[0031] For example, the actual driving data may include information about the target business, the vehicle, and the driver.

[0032] The information about the target business may include the type of the target business, such as moving, home delivery, etc. However, the information about the target business is not limited to this.

[0033] The information about the vehicle may include, for example, the vehicle type. However, the information about the vehicle is not limited to this and may include, for example, at least one of vehicle weight, acceleration resistance, air resistance, rolling resistance, gradient resistance, or parameters related thereto. Furthermore, the information about the vehicle may include, for example, at least one of vehicle class, whether regenerative energy can be used, and the usage status.

[0034] The information about the driver is preferably information related to the driving skill of the driver, and may be, for example, one of the period of experience in the target job, the number of times the target job has been performed, age, years of experience driving a car, etc. Note that the information about the driver is not limited to this, and may include at least one of information about the driver's driving characteristics (timing of braking, degree of acceleration, etc.), information about the driver's rest time, information about the driver's waiting time, etc.

[0035] For example, the actual driving data may include driving history information that may change over time depending on actual driving, road condition information that indicates the conditions of the road on which the first vehicle has driven, and the like.

[0036] The driving history information may include, for example, at least one of the following: cargo load, amount of fuel refueled at the start of driving, distance traveled and fuel consumption (or remaining fuel), driving location, driving speed, speed acceleration / deceleration status, stopping status, etc.

[0037] The driving history information may be acquired from a driving recording device that is installed in the first vehicle that is actually traveling and that acquires and records the driving history information. However, the method of acquiring the driving history information is not limited to this.

[0038] The road condition information may include at least one of, for example, the road gradient at the travel location, the road congestion status, and the like.

[0039] The road condition information may be acquired from a sensor mounted on the first vehicle traveling at the time, recorded in the driving recorder, or the like, and then acquired from the driving recorder. Alternatively, the road condition information may be acquired from an external device that provides general road conditions. However, the method of acquiring the road condition information is not limited to this.

[0040] The information included in the actual driving data, driving history information, and road condition information is not limited to those exemplified here. The actual driving data may include at least one of the information exemplified here.

[0041] The model data acquisition unit 102 acquires model data.

[0042] The model data is data that serves as a model relating to the power consumed by the second vehicle while it is traveling.

[0043] For example, the model data may include information on electric power consumption, i.e., information indicating a distance traveled per unit of power consumption. For example, the model data may include information similar to the information included in the above-described actual driving data.

[0044] The information included in the model data is not limited to the examples given here, and the model data may include at least one of the information given here.

[0045] The model data may be created in advance based on, for example, experimental driving of the second vehicle. Furthermore, if multiple experimental driving runs are performed, the average value of the values ​​obtained may be used as the model data. The model data acquisition unit 102 may acquire the model data from, for example, a device that stores model data created through such experimental driving runs.

[0046] The method for creating road condition information and the method for the model data acquisition unit 102 to acquire model data are not limited to the above.

[0047] The simulation unit 103 uses the actual driving data acquired by the actual driving data acquisition unit 101 to perform a simulation of the power that will be consumed when the second vehicle drives in accordance with the actual driving data.

[0048] For example, the simulation unit 103 may perform a simulation by further using the model data acquired by the model data acquisition unit 102. That is, the simulation may be performed by further using model data related to the power consumed by the second vehicle while it is traveling.

[0049] The results of the simulation may include at least one of electricity consumption information, power consumption, etc. when the second vehicle is driven in accordance with the actual driving data. The conditions of the simulation may be set as appropriate. For example, the initial condition for the SOC (state of charge) of the second vehicle (the condition at the start of driving in the simulation) may be a full charge, or an appropriate value such as a percentage of a full charge may be set.

[0050] The range estimation unit 104 uses the results of the simulation performed by the simulation unit 103 to estimate a driving range according to a plurality of stage-specific criteria related to the risk of running out of power.

[0051] The multiple stage-specific criteria regarding the risk of running out of power may be determined using, for example, the ratio of remaining capacity to a full charge, the remaining capacity, etc. In more detail, for example, if the ratio of total capacity to a full charge is used, the multiple stage-specific criteria may be two or more, such as 50%, 27.5%, 20%, etc. Note that the multiple stage-specific criteria may be determined as appropriate regarding the risk of running out of power, and are not limited to those exemplified here.

[0052] The display unit 105 displays various types of information. The display control unit 106 causes the display unit 105 to display various types of information.

[0053] For example, the display control unit 106 causes the display unit 105 to display a map.

[0054] Furthermore, for example, the display control unit 106 displays the driving range according to at least one level criterion on the map displayed on the display unit 105. The display manner of the driving range may differ for each level criterion. The display manner may include, for example, one or more of color, thickness, line type, etc. Note that it is sufficient that there is one or more level criterion.

[0055] Furthermore, for example, the display control unit 106 may further display a predetermined area of ​​responsibility for the target base on the map displayed on the display unit 105. That is, the map displayed on the display unit 105 may further display a predetermined area of ​​responsibility for the target base.

[0056] The display control unit 106 may display the non-responsible area on the display unit 105 in a manner different from that of the responsible area. The non-responsible area is an area other than the responsible area. In other words, the non-responsible area is an area that is not included in the responsible area.

[0057] (Example of Physical Configuration of Information Processing Device 100) The information processing device 100 physically includes a bus 1010, a processor 1020, a memory 1030, a storage device 1040, a network interface 1050, an input interface 1060, and an output interface 1070, as shown in FIG.

[0058] The bus 1010 is a data transmission path for transmitting and receiving data among the processor 1020, memory 1030, storage device 1040, network interface 1050, input interface 1060, and output interface 1070. However, the method of connecting the processor 1020 and the like to each other is not limited to bus connection.

[0059] The processor 1020 is implemented as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit).

[0060] The memory 1030 is a main storage device realized by a RAM (Random Access Memory) or the like.

[0061] The storage device 1040 is an auxiliary storage device realized by a hard disk drive (HDD), a solid state drive (SSD), a memory card, a read-only memory (ROM), or the like. The storage device 1040 stores program modules for realizing the functions of the device that includes the storage device 1040. The processor 1020 loads each of these program modules into the memory 1030 and executes them to realize the function corresponding to that program module.

[0062] The network interface 1050 is an interface for connecting a device having the network interface 1050 to the network N.

[0063] The input interface 1060 is an interface for the user to input information, and is configured from, for example, a touch panel, a keyboard, a mouse, and the like.

[0064] The output interface 1070 is an interface for presenting information to the user, and is configured, for example, by a liquid crystal panel, an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) panel, or the like.

[0065] Although the information processing device 100 has been described as being physically composed of a single device, it may be physically composed of multiple devices. In this case, each of the multiple devices may be physically configured in the same way as the information processing device 100.

[0066] (Example of Operation of Information Processing Device 100 According to First Embodiment) Hereinafter, an example of information processing according to the present disclosure will be described with reference to FIG.

[0067] The information processing is a process for estimating the relationship between the risk of running out of power of the second vehicle and the driving range when the second vehicle is used instead of the first vehicle associated with the target base. The information processing may be started, for example, in response to a user instruction. Note that the trigger for starting the information processing is not limited to this.

[0068] The actual driving data acquisition unit 101 acquires actual driving data (step S101).

[0069] For example, the actual driving data is data related to the driving of an appropriately selected first vehicle when the first vehicle actually drives during a predetermined period (e.g., one day) during business hours. The actual driving data acquisition unit 101 may acquire, for example, multiple pieces of actual driving data related to the same first vehicle associated with the same target base. A method for selecting multiple pieces of actual driving data is, for example, a period between specified dates (e.g., one month), but is not limited to this, and any appropriate method may be adopted.

[0070] The model data acquisition unit 102 acquires model data (step S102).

[0071] The simulation unit 103 uses the actual driving data acquired in step S101 to perform a simulation of the power consumed when the second vehicle drives in accordance with the actual driving data (step S103).

[0072] For example, the simulation unit 103 performs a simulation further using the model data acquired in step S102.

[0073] In more detail, for example, the simulation unit 103 uses the actual driving data and the model data to generate electricity consumption information when the second vehicle is driven in accordance with the actual driving data.

[0074] More specifically, for example, the actual driving data includes information on the target business, the vehicle, and the driver, driving history information, and road condition information.

[0075] In this case, it is possible to obtain simulation results for a case in which a target task similar to the target task included in the actual driving data is driven using the second vehicle.

[0076] For example, it is possible to obtain simulation results for a case where the second vehicle is used for driving under conditions corresponding to the vehicle included in the actual driving data. The conditions corresponding to the vehicle are, for example, conditions related to the vehicle weight. In this case, the condition is, for example, a condition that the second vehicle has the same vehicle weight as the vehicle weight specified by the vehicle type.

[0077] For example, it is possible to obtain simulation results for driving using the second vehicle under conditions according to information about the driver included in the actual driving data. The conditions according to the information about the driver are, for example, conditions related to driving skill. The driving skill is expressed by a value calculated according to a predetermined formula, matrix, etc. based on, for example, the length of experience included in the information about the driver. In this case, the condition is, for example, a condition that the second vehicle has the same driving skill as the driving skill specified by the information about the driver.

[0078] For example, it is possible to obtain a simulation result of a case where the second vehicle is driven under the same driving conditions as the driving history information included in the actual driving data. For example, it is possible to obtain a simulation result of a case where the second vehicle is driven under the same road conditions as the road condition information included in the actual driving data.

[0079] For example, if multiple pieces of actual driving data are acquired in step S101, the simulation unit 103 may perform a simulation regarding the power consumed when the second vehicle drives in accordance with each of the multiple pieces of actual driving data. Note that the simulation method is not limited to the one described here.

[0080] The range estimation unit 104 uses the results of the simulation performed in step S103 to estimate a driving range according to a plurality of graded criteria related to the risk of running out of power (step S104).

[0081] For example, if a simulation is performed in step S103 based on each of a plurality of pieces of actual driving data, the range estimation unit 104 may use each of the results of the plurality of simulations to estimate a driving range according to a plurality of stage-specific criteria. Estimating the driving range may use, for example, at least one of topography such as road gradient, road width, and driving restrictions such as speed or construction. For example, estimating the driving range may use at least one of a business area, an economic area prepared in advance using game theory, etc.

[0082] The display control unit 106 displays the driving range according to at least one stage-based criterion on the map displayed on the display unit 105 (step S105).

[0083] In step S104, when the driving range is estimated using each of the results of multiple simulations, the display control unit 106 may cause the display unit 105 to display the estimated driving range results on a single screen.

[0084] 6 to 8 are diagrams showing examples of displaying a driving range according to one stage-based standard. More specifically, FIGS. 6 to 8 are diagrams showing examples of displaying a driving range according to stage-based standard levels of remaining capacity of 50%, 27.5%, and 20%, respectively. In each diagram, the driving range is represented using a line corresponding to a driving route included in the actual driving data and a circle that encompasses that driving route.

[0085] The driving range may be represented by at least one method, and the method is not limited to a circle or a line along the driving route (i.e., a road). For example, the driving range may be represented by a shape that encompasses or is adjacent to the driving route along the topography of the area. Also, for example, the driving range may be represented by a series of dots that indicate stopping points.

[0086] Fig. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a driving range display according to a plurality of step-by-step criteria. Specifically, Fig. 9 corresponds to a diagram combining Figs. 6 to 8, and shows an example of a driving range display according to step-by-step criteria for remaining capacity percentages of 50%, 27.5%, and 20%. Fig. 9 shows an example in which different line types are used to display 50%, 27.5%, and 20%, respectively, in different display modes (solid line, dotted line, and dashed dotted line).

[0087] The display example of Fig. 9 also includes a predetermined area of ​​responsibility for the target base. In Fig. 9, the area of ​​responsibility is indicated by a two-dot chain line. Furthermore, the display example of Fig. 9 indicates areas outside of the base's responsibility using hatching.

[0088] Note that when the driving range is estimated using each of the results of a plurality of simulations, the display control unit 106 may cause the display unit 105 to display the plurality of driving range estimation results corresponding to each of the results of the plurality of simulations on separate screens. In this case, the display control unit 106 may cause the display unit 105 to display the plurality of driving range estimation results corresponding to each of the results of the plurality of simulations on appropriate multiple screens. In this case, when there are overlapping areas among the plurality of driving ranges (for example, areas that overlap according to a predetermined tiered standard), the display unit 105 may display the overlapping areas in a manner different from the other areas (for example, by using a darker color, etc.).

[0089] The display control unit 106 may also cause the display unit 105 to display areas outside the driving range according to a predetermined tiered standard (for example, when the remaining capacity ratio is 27.5%), i.e., areas outside the driving range, in a manner different from other areas, using hatching or the like.

[0090] Furthermore, the display control unit 106 may cause the display unit 105 to display at least one of a location or area where it has been determined by the simulation that a power shortage will occur, or a location or area where the gradient is equal to or greater than a predetermined value when the driving record includes the gradient of the road traveled. In a location or area where the gradient is equal to or greater than a predetermined value, the second vehicle, which uses electricity as its energy source, consumes more power, making it easy to visually identify a location or area where there is a high risk of running out of power or an accident occurring.

[0091] (Operations and Effects) As described above, according to this embodiment, the information processing device 100 includes the simulation unit 103 and the range estimation unit 104 .

[0092] The simulation unit 103 uses actual driving data of a first vehicle that uses fuel as an energy source and is associated with the target base to perform a simulation of the electricity that will be consumed when a second vehicle that uses electricity as an energy source drives in accordance with the actual driving data.

[0093] The range estimation unit 104 uses the results of the simulation to estimate a driving range according to a plurality of stage-specific criteria related to the risk of running out of power.

[0094] This allows for the estimation of the relationship between the risk of running out of power and the driving range of a second vehicle that uses electricity as its energy source based on actual driving, when the second vehicle uses electricity as its energy source instead of a first vehicle that uses fuel as its energy source. This makes it possible to accurately estimate the driving range of a vehicle that uses electricity as its energy source.

[0095] According to this embodiment, the information processing device 100 further includes a display control unit 106 that displays a driving range according to at least one level of criteria on a map displayed on the display unit 105. The display mode of the driving range differs for each level of criteria.

[0096] This allows the driver to view the driving range according to at least one stage-specific standard on a map. Therefore, by referring to the driving range according to the stage-specific standard, it becomes possible to consider introducing a second vehicle and take necessary measures.

[0097] According to this embodiment, a predetermined coverage area for the target base is further displayed on the map.

[0098] This allows the area of ​​responsibility to be viewed on a map, making it possible to consider the introduction of a second vehicle and take necessary measures by referring to the area of ​​responsibility.

[0099] According to this embodiment, the simulation is performed further using model data relating to the power consumed by the second vehicle as it travels.

[0100] This allows for the estimation of the relationship between the risk of running out of power and the driving range of a second vehicle that uses electricity as its energy source based on actual driving, when the second vehicle uses electricity as its energy source instead of a first vehicle that uses fuel as its energy source. This makes it possible to accurately estimate the driving range of a vehicle that uses electricity as its energy source.

[0101] [Embodiment 2] In the first embodiment, an example in which there is one target base has been described. However, there may be multiple target bases. The information processing device according to this embodiment may include components that are generally similar to those of the information processing device 100 according to the first embodiment, both functionally and physically. Therefore, an example of the functional configuration of the information processing device according to this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 3 .

[0102] The actual travel data acquisition unit 101 acquires actual travel data associated with each of the plurality of target locations. The actual travel data acquisition unit 101 may acquire at least one piece of actual travel data for each of the plurality of target locations. Each piece of actual travel data may be the same as that in the first embodiment.

[0103] The model data acquisition unit 102 may acquire the same model data as in the first embodiment.

[0104] The simulation unit 103 performs a simulation of the power consumed when the second vehicle runs in accordance with the actual driving data, using each of the plurality of actual driving data acquired by the model data acquisition unit 102. In other words, the simulation result may be generated for each of the plurality of actual driving data.

[0105] The range estimation unit 104 estimates a driving range according to a plurality of stage-specific criteria related to the risk of running out of power, using each of the results of the simulation performed by the simulation unit 103. For example, the range estimation unit 104 may estimate a driving range for each of a plurality of target bases.

[0106] As in the first embodiment, the display control unit 106 displays the driving range and the like according to at least one stage-based standard on the map displayed on the display unit 105 .

[0107] For example, the display control unit 106 may display the driving range for each of a plurality of target bases on a map displayed on the display unit 105 .

[0108] Furthermore, for example, the display control unit 106 may display a plurality of predetermined areas of responsibility for each of a plurality of target bases on the map displayed on the display unit 105. That is, the map displayed on the display unit 105 may include, for example, a plurality of predetermined areas of responsibility for each of a plurality of target bases.

[0109] Furthermore, for example, the display control unit 106 may cause the display unit 105 to display the non-responsible area in a manner different from the multiple responsible areas. The non-responsible area is an area other than the multiple responsible areas. In other words, the non-responsible area is an area that is not included in any of the multiple responsible areas.

[0110] (Example of Operation of Information Processing Device 100 According to Embodiment 2) In this embodiment, the information processing may also include substantially the same components as the information processing according to Embodiment 1. Therefore, the information processing according to this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 5 .

[0111] The actual driving data acquisition unit 101 acquires actual driving data associated with each of a plurality of target bases (step S101).

[0112] For example, the actual driving data acquisition unit 101 may acquire a plurality of pieces of actual driving data related to a first vehicle associated with each of a plurality of target bases. The first vehicles at each base may be, for example, the same vehicle type or different vehicle types. As in the first embodiment, the plurality of pieces of actual driving data may be, for example, a period between specified dates (for example, one month), but is not limited to this and may be selected by any appropriate method.

[0113] The model data acquisition unit 102 acquires model data in the same manner as in the first embodiment (step S102).

[0114] The simulation unit 103 uses each of the plurality of actual driving data acquired in step S101 to perform a simulation regarding the power consumed when the second vehicle drives in accordance with the actual driving data (step S103).

[0115] For example, the simulation unit 103 may perform a simulation using the model data acquired in step S102, as in the first embodiment.

[0116] The range estimation unit 104 uses the results of the simulation performed for each of the plurality of actual driving data in step S103 to estimate a driving range according to a plurality of graded criteria related to the risk of running out of power (step S104).

[0117] For example, the range estimation unit 104 may estimate the driving range for each of a plurality of target bases.

[0118] As in the first embodiment, the display control unit 106 displays the driving range and the like according to at least one stage-based standard on the map displayed on the display unit 105 .

[0119] For example, the display control unit 106 may display the estimated driving ranges for some or all of the multiple target bases on a map displayed on the display unit 105. In this case, the display control unit 106 may display the driving ranges for each target base in a different display mode on the display unit 105 so that each of the multiple target bases can be distinguished and recognized.

[0120] Furthermore, for example, the display control unit 106 may display a plurality of predetermined areas of responsibility of a plurality of target bases on a map displayed on the display unit 105 .

[0121] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a display of multiple coverage areas. In FIG. 10, the coverage areas are indicated by two-dot chain lines and dotted lines. FIG. 10 also includes the same driving range as FIG. 9 for the target base illustrated in FIG. 9. Furthermore, the display example in FIG. 10 indicates non-coverage areas using hatching. Note that the display control unit 106 may display the estimated driving range for each of the multiple coverage areas on the map displayed on the display unit 105.

[0122] (Actions and Effects) As described above, according to this embodiment, there are a plurality of target bases. A plurality of predetermined coverage areas are displayed on the map for each of the plurality of target bases. Displaying a plurality of coverage areas includes displaying non-coverage areas, which are areas other than the plurality of coverage areas, in a manner different from the plurality of coverage areas.

[0123] This allows the non-covered areas to be highlighted, making it possible to easily identify the non-covered areas and easily know the areas where measures (such as arranging charging facilities) are required to carry out business using the second vehicle.

[0124] According to this embodiment, the estimated driving range for at least one of the plurality of target bases is further displayed on the map.

[0125] This allows the relationship between the driving range of at least one target base and the areas covered by other target bases to be easily seen on a map. Therefore, it becomes possible to consider the introduction of a second vehicle and take necessary measures in consideration of the cooperation between multiple target bases.

[0126] Although the embodiments and modifications of the present invention have been described above with reference to the drawings, these are merely examples of the present invention, and various configurations other than those described above can also be adopted.

[0127] In addition, although the flowcharts used in the above description show multiple steps (processes) in a sequential order, the order of steps performed in each embodiment is not limited to the order shown. In each embodiment, the order of steps shown in the drawings can be changed as long as it does not cause any problems in terms of content. Furthermore, the above-described embodiments and variations can be combined as long as the content is not contradictory.

[0128] Furthermore, the present disclosure may provide, for example, a program that causes one or more computers to function as the information processing device 100 described in the above embodiment, or that causes one or more computers to execute information processing, a recording medium on which the program is recorded, etc.

[0129] Some or all of the above-described embodiments can be described as, but are not limited to, the following supplementary notes.

[0130] 1. An information processing device comprising: simulation means for using actual driving data of a first vehicle that uses fuel as an energy source and is associated with a target base to perform a simulation regarding the power that a second vehicle that uses electricity as an energy source will consume when the second vehicle drives in accordance with the actual driving data; and range estimation means for using the results of the simulation to estimate a driving range according to a plurality of stage-based standards related to the risk of running out of power. 2. An information processing device described in 1., further comprising display control means for displaying the driving range according to at least one of the stage-based standards on a map displayed on a display means, the display manner of the driving range differing for each of the stage-based standards. 3. An information processing device described in 2., further comprising: a predetermined coverage area for the target base on the map. 4. The information processing device described in 3., wherein there are a plurality of target bases, and a plurality of predetermined coverage areas for each of the plurality of target bases are displayed on the map, and displaying the plurality of coverage areas includes displaying a non-coverage area that is an area other than the plurality of coverage areas in a manner different from the plurality of coverage areas. 5. The information processing device described in 4., wherein an estimated driving range for at least one of the plurality of target bases is further displayed on the map. 6. The information processing device described in any one of 1. to 5., wherein the simulation is performed further using model data related to the power consumed by the second vehicle as it drives. 7. An information processing method, wherein one or more computers use actual driving data of a first vehicle that uses fuel as an energy source and is associated with the target base to perform a simulation related to the power that a second vehicle that uses electricity as an energy source will consume when driven in accordance with the actual driving data, and use the results of the simulation to estimate a driving range according to a plurality of stage-based standards related to the risk of running out of power. 8. The information processing method described in 7., further comprising displaying the driving range according to at least one of the stage-based standards on a map displayed on a display means, wherein the display manner of the driving range differs for each of the stage-based standards.9. The information processing method according to 8., in which a predetermined coverage area for the target base is further displayed on the map. 10. The information processing method according to 9., in which there are a plurality of target bases, and a plurality of coverage areas predetermined for each of the plurality of target bases are displayed on the map, and displaying the plurality of coverage areas includes displaying a non-coverage area that is an area other than the plurality of coverage areas in a manner different from the plurality of coverage areas. 11. The information processing method according to 10., in which an estimated driving range for at least one target base of the plurality of target bases is further displayed on the map. 12. The information processing method according to any one of 7. to 11., in which the simulation is performed further using model data related to power consumed by the second vehicle as it travels. 13. 14. A recording medium having recorded thereon a program for causing one or more computers to perform a simulation of the power that will be consumed when a second vehicle that uses electricity as an energy source is driven in accordance with actual driving data of a first vehicle that is associated with a target base and uses fuel as an energy source, and uses the actual driving data, and to estimate a driving range according to a plurality of stage-specific standards for the risk of running out of energy using the results of the simulation. 14. A recording medium having recorded thereon the program described in 13., further causing a computer to execute a program to display the driving range according to at least one of the stage-specific standards on a map displayed on a display means, the display manner of the driving range differing for each of the stage-specific standards. 15. A recording medium having recorded thereon the program described in 14., in which a predetermined coverage area for the target base is further displayed on the map. 16. There are a plurality of target bases, and a plurality of predetermined coverage areas for each of the plurality of target bases are displayed on the map, and displaying the plurality of coverage areas includes displaying a non-coverage area that is an area other than the plurality of coverage areas in a manner different from the plurality of coverage areas.17. A recording medium having recorded thereon the program described in 16., in which an estimated driving range for at least one of the plurality of target bases is further displayed on the map. 18. A recording medium having recorded thereon the program described in any one of 13. to 17., in which the simulation is performed further using model data related to the power consumed by the second vehicle as it drives. 19. A program for causing one or more computers to: use actual driving data of a first vehicle that uses fuel as an energy source and is associated with the target base, to perform a simulation related to the power consumed by a second vehicle that uses electricity as an energy source when driven in accordance with the actual driving data, and use the results of the simulation to estimate a driving range according to a plurality of stage-based standards related to the risk of running out of power. 20. The program described in 19., further causing the program to display the driving range according to at least one of the stage-based standards on a map displayed on a display means, the display mode of the driving range differing for each stage-based standard. 21. The program described in 20., in which a predetermined coverage area for the target base is further displayed on the map. 22. The program according to 21., wherein there are a plurality of target bases, and a plurality of predetermined coverage areas are displayed on the map for each of the plurality of target bases, and displaying the plurality of coverage areas includes displaying a non-coverage area that is an area other than the plurality of coverage areas in a manner different from the plurality of coverage areas. 23. The program according to 22., wherein an estimated driving range for at least one target base of the plurality of target bases is further displayed on the map. 24. The program according to any one of 19. to 23., wherein the simulation is performed further using model data related to power consumed by the second vehicle as it travels.

[0131] REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 100 Information processing device 101 Actual driving data acquisition unit 102 Model data acquisition unit 103 Simulation unit 104 Range estimation unit 105 Display unit 106 Display control unit

Claims

1. A simulation means that uses actual driving data of a first vehicle that uses fuel as its energy source, associated with a target location, to perform a simulation of the electricity consumed when a second vehicle that uses electricity as its energy source drives according to the said actual driving data, The system includes a range estimation means that uses the results of the simulation to estimate the drivable range according to multiple stage-based criteria for the risk of running out of power. Information processing device.

2. The system further includes a display control means that causes a drivable range corresponding to at least one of the aforementioned stage-specific criteria to be displayed on a map displayed on the display means, The display method for the drivable range differs for each of the aforementioned tiered criteria. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

3. The aforementioned map further displays predetermined areas of responsibility for the target locations. The information processing apparatus according to claim 2.

4. The aforementioned target locations are multiple, On the aforementioned map, multiple predetermined service areas are displayed for each of the multiple target locations. Displaying the aforementioned multiple areas of responsibility includes displaying areas outside of those multiple areas of responsibility, i.e., areas not covered by responsibility, in a manner different from those multiple areas of responsibility. The information processing apparatus according to claim 3.

5. The map also displays the estimated drivable range for at least one of the multiple target locations. The information processing apparatus according to claim 4.

6. The aforementioned simulation is performed using model data relating to the power consumed by the second automobile as it drives. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. One or more computers, Using actual driving data of a first vehicle that uses fuel as its energy source and is associated with the target location, a simulation is performed on the power consumption of a second vehicle that uses electricity as its energy source when it drives according to the aforementioned actual driving data. Using the results of the above simulation, the drivable range is estimated according to multiple tiered criteria for the risk of running out of power. Information processing methods.

8. On one or more computers, Using actual driving data of a first vehicle that uses fuel as its energy source and is associated with the target location, a simulation is performed on the power consumption of a second vehicle that uses electricity as its energy source when it drives according to the aforementioned actual driving data. A program that uses the results of the aforementioned simulation to estimate the drivable range according to multiple tiered criteria for the risk of running out of power.