Information processing device, information processing method, program, and information processing system

Abstract

This information processing device comprises: an allowable weight acquisition unit that acquires allowable weight information indicating a weight allowed by a target region which is a region into which a vehicle can enter; a vehicle weight identification unit that identifies the weight of a target vehicle, which is entering or attempting to enter the target region, by using an image captured of the target vehicle; and a processing unit that performs prescribed processing in accordance with the result of comparison between the allowable weight indicated by the allowable weight information of the target region and the weight of the target vehicle.

Description

Information processing device, information processing method, recording medium, and information processing system

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

[0002] Patent document 1 describes an in-vehicle information processing device that transmits information input by a user and stored in a memory unit, such as information for identifying a vehicle and information regarding the vehicle's external dimensions and weight, to a parking lot, etc., to inquire about parking availability and make a parking reservation.

[0003] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2003-302234

[0004] The weight of a vehicle is important to the area the vehicle enters, such as a facility or infrastructure, but the technology described in the above patent document requires the vehicle weight to be provided by the user of the vehicle.

[0005] The information processing device of the present disclosure comprises an allowable weight acquisition means for acquiring allowable weight information indicating the weight allowable for a target area, which is an area that a vehicle can enter; a vehicle weight identification means for identifying the weight of a target vehicle that is about to enter or has entered the target area using an image of the target vehicle; and a processing means for performing a predetermined process according to the result of comparing the allowable weight indicated by the allowable weight information for the target area with the weight of the target vehicle.

[0006] The information processing system of the present disclosure comprises an imaging device that generates an image of a target vehicle that is about to enter or has entered a target area, and an information processing device, wherein the information processing device comprises: an allowable weight acquisition means that acquires allowable weight information indicating the weight allowable for a target area that is an area that a vehicle can enter; a vehicle weight identification means that identifies the weight of the target vehicle that is about to enter or has entered the target area using an image of the target vehicle; and a processing means that performs predetermined processing according to the result of comparing the allowable weight indicated by the allowable weight information for the target area with the weight of the target vehicle.

[0007] The information processing method of the present disclosure includes one or more computers acquiring allowable weight information indicating the weight allowable for a target area, which is an area that a vehicle can enter; identifying the weight of a target vehicle, which is a vehicle that is about to enter or has entered the target area, using an image of the target vehicle; and performing predetermined processing based on the result of comparing the allowable weight indicated by the allowable weight information for the target area with the weight of the target vehicle.

[0008] The program disclosed herein causes a computer to perform the following: an allowable weight acquisition process for acquiring allowable weight information indicating the weight allowable for a target area, which is an area that a vehicle can enter; a vehicle weight identification process for identifying the weight of a target vehicle, which is a vehicle that is about to enter or has entered the target area, using an image of the target vehicle; and a process for performing a predetermined process based on the result of comparing the allowable weight indicated by the allowable weight information for the target area with the weight of the target vehicle.

[0009] According to the present disclosure, an information processing device, an information processing method, a program, and an information processing system can be provided that can prevent adverse effects on facilities such as parking lots and infrastructure facilities such as roads and bridges due to excessive vehicle weight.

[0010] 1 is a block diagram showing an example of a configuration of an information processing device according to the present disclosure. FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing an example of a processing operation of an information processing device according to the present disclosure. FIG. 3 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of a configuration of an information processing system according to the present disclosure. FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing an example of a configuration of a computer realizing an information processing device in the present disclosure. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a data structure of allowable weight information. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a data structure of vehicle-specific appearance information. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a data structure of vehicle-specific weight information. FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of a processing operation of an information processing device according to the present disclosure. FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing an example of a processing operation of an information processing device according to the present disclosure. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a data structure of total weight information. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a data structure of camera information. FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing an example of a configuration of an information processing device according to the present disclosure. FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing an example of a processing operation of an information processing device according to the present disclosure.

[0011] Hereinafter, in this disclosure, the drawings relate to one or more embodiments. In all drawings, similar components are denoted by similar reference numerals, and descriptions thereof will be omitted as appropriate. In each of the following drawings, configurations of parts that are not related to the essence of this disclosure are omitted and are not shown.

[0012] In the present disclosure, "acquisition" includes at least one of the following: a device going to retrieve data or information stored in another device or storage medium (active acquisition); and a device inputting data or information output from another device (passive acquisition). Examples of active acquisition include making a request or inquiry to another device and receiving a response, and accessing and reading information from another device or storage medium. Examples of passive acquisition include receiving information that is distributed (or transmitted, push notification, etc.). Furthermore, "acquisition" may also mean selecting and acquiring data or information from received data or information, or selecting and receiving distributed data or information.

[0013] <Example of Functional Configuration> An example of the configuration of the information processing device according to the present disclosure will be described below with reference to a block diagram. As shown in FIG. 1 , the information processing device 100 includes an allowable weight acquisition unit 102, a vehicle weight identification unit 104, and a processing unit 106. The allowable weight acquisition unit 102 acquires allowable weight information indicating the allowable weight of a target area, which is an area into which a vehicle can enter. The vehicle weight identification unit 104 identifies the weight of a target vehicle, which is a vehicle that is about to enter or has entered the target area, using an image of the target vehicle. The processing unit 106 performs predetermined processing according to a comparison result between the allowable weight indicated by the allowable weight information for the target area and the weight of the target vehicle.

[0014] The target area is, for example, any one of a parking lot, a bridge, and a road. Roads also include expressways. For example, in the case of a parking lot, the allowable weight of the target area may be set for each section, such as a lane in a multi-story parking garage or a floor or area of ​​a flat parking garage. In the case of a bridge or a road, the allowable weight of the target area may be set for each specified section.

[0015] The predetermined processing includes, for example, processing to prevent a vehicle from entering a target area when the vehicle weight is heavier than the allowable weight allowed for the target area. The predetermined processing also includes processing to allow a vehicle to enter a target area when the vehicle weight is lighter than the allowable weight allowed for the target area. In other words, the predetermined processing includes determining whether or not a target vehicle can enter a target area based on a comparison result between the allowable weight indicated by the allowable weight information for the target area and the weight of the target vehicle, and performing processing corresponding to the determination result (at least one of a process to permit or a process to prohibit the target vehicle from entering the target area).

[0016] <Operation Example> An example of the processing operation of the information processing device according to the present disclosure will be described below using a flowchart. As shown in Fig. 2, the allowable weight acquisition unit 102 acquires allowable weight information indicating the weight allowed for a target area, which is an area where a vehicle can enter (step S101). The vehicle weight identification unit 104 identifies the weight of a target vehicle, which is a vehicle that is about to enter or has entered the target area, using an image of the target vehicle (step S103). The processing unit 106 performs a predetermined process according to the result of comparing the allowable weight indicated by the allowable weight information for the target area with the weight of the target vehicle (step S105).

[0017] According to this information processing device 100, the vehicle weight identification unit 104 identifies the weight of a target vehicle that is about to enter or has entered a target area, which is an area accessible to vehicles, such as a facility such as a parking lot or an infrastructure facility such as a road or a bridge, using an image of the target vehicle. Then, the processing unit 106 performs processing according to a comparison result between the allowable weight of the target area acquired by the allowable weight acquisition unit 102 and the weight of the target vehicle identified by the vehicle weight identification unit 104. For example, if the vehicle's weight is heavier than the weight allowable for the target area, the processing unit 106 performs processing to prevent the vehicle from entering the target area. This makes it possible to prevent adverse effects of excessive vehicle weight on facilities such as parking lots and infrastructure facilities such as roads and bridges.

[0018] A detailed example of the information processing device 100 will be described below.

[0019] (First embodiment) <System overview> An example of the configuration of an information processing system according to the present disclosure will be described below using a conceptual diagram. As shown in Fig. 3, the information processing system 1 uses images captured by a camera 5 to perform processing such as restricting vehicle entry into a target area, such as a facility such as a parking lot, or an infrastructure facility such as a road or a bridge, so as not to exceed the allowable weight limit for the target area.

[0020] The information processing system 1 includes an information processing device 100 and a camera 5 connected to the information processing device 100 via a communication network 3. The information processing system 1 may further include an output device 20 connected to the information processing device 100 via the communication network 3. Although one camera 5 and one output device 20 are shown in Fig. 3, the information processing system 1 may include a plurality of cameras 5 and a plurality of output devices 20. The output device 20 is used to output various types of output information in predetermined processing by a processing unit 106, which will be described later.

[0021] The information processing device 100 is a computer such as a personal computer, a server computer, etc. The information processing device 100 may be a cloud server.

[0022] The information processing device 100 includes a storage device 120. The storage device 120 stores various information (e.g., allowable weight information 200, vehicle-specific weight information 210, vehicle-specific appearance information 220, vehicle-specific weight information 230, total weight information 240, and camera information 250) described below. The storage device 120 may be provided inside or outside the information processing device 100. In other words, the storage device 120 may be hardware that is integrated with the information processing device 100, or may be hardware that is separate from the information processing device 100.

[0023] The camera 5 includes an imaging element such as a lens and a charge-coupled device (CCD) image sensor, and is, for example, a network camera such as an Internet Protocol (IP) camera. The network camera has, for example, a wireless local area network (LAN) communication function and is connected to the information processing device 100 via a communication network 3, i.e., a relay device (not shown) such as a router. At least one camera 5 is installed for each target area in a position where it can capture images of vehicles before they enter the target area. The camera 5 may be a so-called surveillance camera. The camera 5 may also include a mechanism for controlling the orientation of the camera body and lens, zooming, focusing, etc., in accordance with the movement of the vehicle.

[0024] The images generated by the camera 5 are preferably captured in real time and transmitted to the information processing device 100. However, the images transmitted to the information processing device 100 do not have to be transmitted directly from the camera 5, but may be images delayed by a predetermined time. The images captured by the camera 5 may be temporarily stored in another storage device (not shown), and the information processing device 100 may read them from the storage device sequentially or at predetermined intervals. Furthermore, the images transmitted to the information processing device 100 are preferably moving images, but may also be frame images captured at predetermined intervals or still images.

[0025] The camera 5 may be an infrared camera, in which case the images produced by the camera 5 are infrared images.

[0026] In this example, the information processing device 100 is configured to include an image processing device (not shown). However, the image processing device may be provided externally to the information processing device 100. In other words, the image processing device may be hardware that is integrated with the information processing device 100, or may be hardware that is separate from the information processing device 100. When the image processing device is provided externally to the information processing device 100, an image may be transmitted from the camera 5 to the image processing device without passing through the information processing device 100. Then, information indicating the analysis result of the image may be transmitted from the image processing device to the information processing device 100.

[0027] The output device 20 is a display device, such as an electronic bulletin board composed of LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes), a liquid crystal display, or an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display. However, the output device 20 may be other output devices, and is not limited to these. For example, the output device 20 may be an audio output device such as a speaker.

[0028] Examples of the output device 20 include, but are not limited to, the following: (Example 1) At least one of an electronic signboard, a rotating light, and a speaker installed at the entrance of the target area or in a position closer to the entrance (Example 2) At least one of a display device and a speaker of an in-vehicle device (e.g., a navigation system) installed in a vehicle (Example 3) At least one of a display device and a speaker of a communication device (e.g., a smartphone, a tablet terminal, a personal computer, etc.) brought into the vehicle

[0029] In the above (Example 2) and (Example 3), the information processing system 1 may further include, as the output device 20, a base station or the like installed at the entrance of the target area or in the vicinity of the area just before the entrance, which distributes output information. Each device (an in-vehicle device or a communication device) has a function for receiving output information from the information processing system 1 and outputting the output information from the output device 20. For example, a predetermined application for realizing the function may be installed and started on each device, thereby realizing the function on each device. Alternatively, the function may be realized on each device by accessing a website that provides the function using a browser or the like using each device.

[0030] In order to use these functions, the user U registers in advance account information (for example, a user ID and a password that can identify the user U) for the information processing system 1. Before using a service provided by the information processing system 1, the user U logs in to an application or website that provides the service using the account information, and if authentication is successful, the user U can use the service.

[0031] The information processing device 100 performs processing to output predetermined information to each device of the user U via an application or a website. Specifically, the information processing device 100 causes an output device 20 installed at or just before the entrance of the target area to transmit the output information via radio waves in a predetermined band that can be received by the in-vehicle device of the target vehicle 10, and causes the in-vehicle device to receive the radio waves. Alternatively, the information processing device 100 causes the output device 20 to transmit the output information via wireless communication in a predetermined band that can be received by an application running on the in-vehicle device of the target vehicle 10 or a communication device brought into the target vehicle 10, and causes the in-vehicle device or the communication device to receive the output information.

[0032] Alternatively, the information processing device 100 may cause an output device 20 (such as a base station) installed at or before the entrance of a target area to distribute output information from the output device 20 to a predetermined distribution area or a predetermined distribution cell, and cause each device present within the distribution area or distribution cell to receive the distributed output information. Here, the predetermined distribution area or predetermined distribution cell is set to include the entrance of the target area or the area before the entrance.

[0033] Alternatively, a receiver capable of receiving output information transmitted from the output device 20 via radio waves in a predetermined band and outputting the information to an in-vehicle device or a communication device may be loaned or distributed to the user U of the information processing system 1. Then, the information processing device 100 may cause the output device 20 to transmit the output information to the receiver.

[0034] Alternatively, the information processing device 100 may constantly acquire location information of each device from the in-vehicle device and communication device of the user U who is running an application or accessing a website. The information processing device 100 may identify the user U whose acquired location information matches the location of the target vehicle 10 that is entering or has entered the target area, and output output information to the device of the user U via the application or website.

[0035] <Hardware Configuration Example> An example of the configuration of a computer that realizes the information processing device of the present disclosure will be described below using a block diagram. The information processing device 100 is realized by a computer 1000 shown in FIG. 4. However, the configuration of the computer 1000 in FIG. 4 is just an example and is not limited to this. Furthermore, the information processing device 100 may be realized by multiple computers 1000.

[0036] As shown in FIG. 4, the computer 1000 includes a bus 1010 , a processor 1020 , a memory 1030 , a storage device 1040 , an input / output interface 1050 , and a network interface 1060 .

[0037] The bus 1010 is a data transmission path for transmitting and receiving data among the processor 1020, memory 1030, storage device 1040, input / output interface 1050, and network interface 1060. However, the method of connecting the processor 1020 and the like to each other is not limited to bus connection.

[0038] The processor 1020 is implemented by a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), or the like.

[0039] The memory 1030 is a main storage device realized by a RAM (Random Access Memory) or the like.

[0040] 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 that realize each function of the information processing device 100 (e.g., the allowable weight acquisition unit 102, the vehicle weight identification unit 104, the processing unit 106, the calculation unit 108, and the vehicle type identification unit 110, which will be described later). The processor 1020 loads each of these program modules into the memory 1030 and executes them, thereby realizing each function corresponding to the program module. The storage device 1040 may also store each data of the storage device 120 of the information processing device 100.

[0041] The program module may be recorded on a recording medium. The recording medium on which the program module is recorded may include a non-transitory, tangible medium usable by the computer 1000, and the program code readable by the computer 1000 (processor 1020) may be embedded in the medium.

[0042] The input / output interface 1050 is an interface for connecting the computer 1000 with various input / output devices. The input / output interface 1050 also functions as a communication interface for performing short-range wireless communication such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) and NFC (Near Field Communication).

[0043] The network interface 1060 is an interface for connecting the computer 1000 to the communication network 3. This communication network 3 is, for example, a local area network (LAN) or a wide area network (WAN). The network interface 1060 may be connected to the communication network 3 wirelessly or by wire.

[0044] The computer 1000 is then connected to necessary devices (for example, the display, touch panel, operation buttons, touchpad, keyboard, mouse, speaker, microphone, camera, printer, etc. of the information processing device 100) via the input / output interface 1050 or the network interface 1060.

[0045] Each component of the information processing device 100 according to the present disclosure in each figure is realized by any combination of hardware and software of the computer 1000 in Figure 4. Those skilled in the art will understand that there are various variations in the realization method and device. The functional block diagrams showing the information processing device 100 according to the present disclosure in each figure show blocks of logical functional units, rather than a configuration of hardware units.

[0046] <Functional Configuration Example> The configuration of the information processing device in the present disclosure will be described below with reference to a block diagram. As shown in FIG. 1 , the information processing device 100 includes an allowable weight acquisition unit 102, a vehicle weight identification unit 104, and a processing unit 106.

[0047] The allowable weight acquisition unit 102 acquires allowable weight information indicating the weight allowable in a target area, which is an area where a vehicle can enter. The target area is an area where a vehicle can enter, such as a facility such as a parking lot, or an infrastructure facility such as a road or a bridge.

[0048] The allowable weight information 200 is stored in the storage device 120, or in the memory 1030 or storage device 1040 of the computer 1000. Note that the various pieces of information described below may also be stored in the storage device 120, or in the memory 1030 or storage device 1040 of the computer 1000. In the following description, the phrase "stored in the storage device 120" is used, but this phrase is intended to mean "stored in the storage device 120, or in the memory 1030 or storage device 1040 of the computer 1000."

[0049] As shown in Figure 5, the allowable weight information 200 stores identification information (shown as ID in the figure) that can identify the target area, information such as the name of the target area (shown as target area name in the figure), location information that indicates the location of the target area, and allowable weight that indicates the weight per vehicle that is allowed to enter each section of the target area, in association with each other.

[0050] The location information of the target area may be, for example, information including at least a portion of the address where the equipment or facilities in the target area are located, or location information indicated by latitude and longitude. For example, in the case of a facility such as a parking lot, the section may be information indicating the number of floors of a flat parking lot or information indicating the lanes of a multi-story parking lot. Alternatively, the section may be information indicating each of the areas into which the target area is divided. For example, in the case of a highway, the section is indicated by the name of the interchange indicating the start and end of the section for which the allowable weight is set, or identification information indicating the interchange.

[0051] The section is information indicating the area in which the allowable weight is set for each target area. For example, if the same allowable weight is set for all floors, lanes, or sections in a certain target area, information indicating the section may not be included in the allowable weight information 200.

[0052] The vehicle weight identification unit 104 uses an image generated by a camera 5 installed in a position for capturing an image of the entrance of the target area or a line of vehicles leading to the entrance for each target area.

[0053] The vehicle weight identification unit 104 identifies the weight of the target vehicle 10, which is a vehicle that is about to enter or is entering the target area, using an image captured by the target vehicle 10. The image is generated by the camera 5. To capture an image of the target vehicle 10 that is about to enter the target area, the camera 5 captures an image of a vehicle moving toward the target area just before the position at which the vehicle will enter the target area. Alternatively, to capture an image of the target vehicle 10 entering the target area, the camera 5 captures an image of a vehicle passing through the entrance to the target area.

[0054] Furthermore, the vehicle weight identification unit 104 may acquire destination information set in an on-board device (navigation system) of the target vehicle 10, including autonomous driving, and determine whether the destination and the route to the destination include a target area. Furthermore, the vehicle weight identification unit 104 acquires position information of the target vehicle 10 (for example, using position information from the on-board device or the user U's communication device). Then, if the destination or route includes the target area, the vehicle weight identification unit 104 may use any of the cameras 5 installed on the route of the target vehicle 10 to photograph the target vehicle 10 using the current position information of the target vehicle 10, and identify the weight of the target vehicle 10 using the generated image.

[0055] Then, if the weight of the target vehicle 10 is heavier than the allowable weight of the target area, the processing unit 106 may perform processing to suggest a change in destination or route. Specifically, the processing unit 106 causes the in-vehicle device of the target vehicle 10 or the communication terminal of the user U to output information suggesting another destination or another route so that the target vehicle 10 does not enter the target area.

[0056] The vehicle weight identification unit 104 acquires from the camera 5 an image generated by the camera 5. The vehicle weight identification unit 104 analyzes the acquired image and identifies the vehicle model of the target vehicle 10. As described above, the image analysis process may be performed by an image processing device external to the information processing device 100. The vehicle weight identification unit 104 identifies the weight of the target vehicle 10 using the vehicle model of the target vehicle 10.

[0057] The vehicle weight identification unit 104 uses the vehicle-specific weight information 230 shown in Fig. 7 to identify the weight corresponding to the vehicle model of the identified target vehicle 10. The vehicle-specific weight information 230 associates information indicating at least the vehicle weight with each vehicle model and stores it in the storage device 120. For example, if the vehicle model of the target vehicle 10 is "AAA," the weight of the target vehicle 10 is 1,200 kg.

[0058] In the vehicle-specific weight information 230, the vehicle type of the target vehicle 10 may include at least a type indicating whether it is an electric vehicle or an engine vehicle. The vehicle-specific weight information 230 may include information indicating whether the vehicle type of the target vehicle 10 is at least one of an electric vehicle, an engine vehicle, a hybrid vehicle, and a fuel cell vehicle.

[0059] However, if the vehicle type of the target vehicle 10 cannot be identified, the vehicle weight identification unit 104 may use a reference value as the weight of the target vehicle 10. For example, the reference value may be the average weight of an electric vehicle. Alternatively, if the vehicle type of the target vehicle 10 is classified into three types, i.e., electric vehicle, engine vehicle, and hybrid vehicle, and the type cannot be identified, the vehicle weight identification unit 104 determines the weight of the target vehicle 10 as the weight of the vehicle of the target vehicle 10 that is an electric vehicle. In other words, if there are multiple types of vehicles of a certain vehicle type and the type cannot be identified, the vehicle weight identification unit 104 determines the heaviest weight of each type of vehicle as the weight of the target vehicle 10. For example, if a certain vehicle type has two types, i.e., engine vehicle and electric vehicle, and the type of the target vehicle 10 cannot be identified, the vehicle weight identification unit 104 determines the weight of the target vehicle 10 as the weight of the vehicle of the vehicle type that is an electric vehicle.

[0060] Alternatively, if the vehicle weight identification unit 104 is unable to identify the vehicle type of the target vehicle 10, it may identify the size of the target vehicle 10 through image analysis and identify the weight using a reference value based on the size of the target vehicle 10. A weight that is preset for each size of the target vehicle 10 (e.g., at least one of the length, width, and height of the target vehicle 10) may be used as the reference value. The reference value may be preset by classifying vehicle sizes into stages (large, medium, small, etc.). For example, the target vehicle 10 may be classified as "large" if its length is equal to or greater than a first predetermined value, as "medium" if its length is less than the first predetermined value and equal to or greater than a second predetermined value, or as "small" if its length is less than the second predetermined value. The reference value is set in stages, and the larger the size of the target vehicle 10, the larger (heavier) the reference value becomes.

[0061] However, the method for setting the weight is not limited to this, and various methods are possible. As an example, a reference size of the vehicle may be determined in advance, and the vehicle weight identification unit 104 may increase or decrease the reference value using the amount of deviation from the reference size.

[0062] The vehicle weight identification unit 104 identifies at least one of the vehicle emblem, logo, presence or absence of an exhaust port, presence or absence of a fuel filler, and presence or absence of a battery pack from the vehicle image. As shown in FIG. 6 , the information processing device 100 stores vehicle-specific appearance information 220 in the storage device 120. The vehicle-specific appearance information 220 stores characteristic information indicating the appearance of a vehicle for each vehicle type. The vehicle weight identification unit 104 detects at least one of the vehicle emblem, logo, exhaust port, fuel filler port, and battery pack from the image generated by the camera 5 and extracts the characteristic information. The vehicle weight identification unit 104 then compares the characteristic information extracted from the image with the characteristic information stored in the vehicle-specific appearance information 220. The vehicle weight identification unit 104 identifies the vehicle model using the comparison result. Specifically, the vehicle weight identification unit 104 identifies a vehicle model for which the comparison result indicates a similarity equal to or greater than a threshold as the vehicle model of the target vehicle 10.

[0063] In addition, the vehicle weight identification unit 104 may first detect an exhaust port, and if an exhaust port is detected, identify the target vehicle 10 as an engine vehicle or a hybrid vehicle, and narrow down the vehicle type.

[0064] Furthermore, the vehicle-specific appearance information 220 in FIG. 6 may include characteristic information for at least one of the vehicle's emblem, logo, exhaust port, fuel filler port, and battery pack, as well as position information for each item. The position information for each item indicates the location within the overall vehicle area. The vehicle-specific appearance information 220 may include, in association with the characteristic information for the entire vehicle in an image captured from at least one of the top, bottom, front, back, left, and right directions of the vehicle, the position information for each item. Alternatively, the vehicle-specific appearance information 220 may include, in association with the characteristic information for the entire vehicle in a 3D image captured from 360 degrees, the position information for each item.

[0065] The feature information may be an image of the vehicle or each item itself, or feature information extracted from each image. As described above, the image may be an infrared image. The feature information is not particularly limited and may be a feature amount extracted using a general-purpose algorithm.

[0066] The vehicle weight identification unit 104 may use the position information of each item to detect each item, extract feature information, perform a matching process, and determine the vehicle type for which the similarity is equal to or greater than a threshold as the type of the target vehicle 10. Alternatively, the vehicle weight identification unit 104 may use the feature information of each item to perform a matching process within the vehicle area to detect each item, and determine the vehicle type for which the vehicle area position information of each detected item matches the position information stored in the vehicle-specific appearance information 220 as the type of the target vehicle 10.

[0067] For exhaust ports and refill ports, the vehicle weight identification unit 104 may perform a matching process using the characteristic information of each item to determine whether the item is present at the position indicated by the position information of each item. Alternatively, the vehicle weight identification unit 104 may perform a matching process using the characteristic information of each item to identify the position of each item on the vehicle in the image. The vehicle weight identification unit 104 extracts characteristic information from the identified item position, and when a similarity between the characteristic information and the characteristic information of each item is found to be equal to or greater than a threshold value, the vehicle type that matches is identified as the type of the target vehicle 10.

[0068] The vehicle weight identification unit 104 may also use a license plate recognition (LPR) system to detect the vehicle's license plate and obtain the vehicle number. The vehicle weight identification unit 104 may also use the obtained vehicle number to query a database of vehicle registration information and obtain information indicating the vehicle model.

[0069] When the weight of the target vehicle 10 cannot be determined from the external characteristics of the target vehicle 10, the vehicle weight determination unit 104 may determine the vehicle number of the target vehicle using an image. The vehicle weight determination unit 104 determines the weight of the target vehicle 10 using the determined vehicle number.

[0070] 6 may further include at least one of the vehicle manufacturer and the drive system type for each vehicle type. The drive system type indicates whether the vehicle is an internal combustion engine vehicle, an electric vehicle (EV), a hybrid electric vehicle (HEV), or a fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV).

[0071] 6 includes characteristic information of emblems and logos for each vehicle model, but characteristic information of emblems and logos may be separately stored as manufacturer information for each vehicle manufacturer in the storage device 120. For example, the vehicle weight identification unit 104 first detects at least one of an emblem and a logo from an image of the target vehicle 10 and extracts characteristic information, and then identifies the manufacturer of the target vehicle 10 using the characteristic information of at least one of the emblem and the logo. Then, the vehicle weight identification unit 104 may narrow down the vehicle models in the vehicle-specific appearance information 220 to the identified manufacturers, and then identify the vehicle model using characteristic information of the exhaust port and the fuel port.

[0072] The processing unit 106 performs a predetermined process according to the result of comparing the allowable weight indicated by the allowable weight information of the target area with the weight of the target vehicle 10. For example, if the comparison result indicates that the weight of the target vehicle 10 identified by the vehicle weight identification unit 104 is heavier than the allowable weight of the target area, the processing unit 106 performs a process to prevent the target vehicle 10 from entering the target area.

[0073] The predetermined processing includes processing for permitting the target vehicle 10 to enter the target area and processing for not permitting (prohibiting) the target vehicle 10 to enter the target area. Various predetermined processing is possible, and examples are given below, but are not limited to these. (Processing Example 1) Information indicating that entry into the target area is permitted is output from the output device 20. The output device 20 is installed at the entrance to the target area or just before the entrance. For example, a message such as "Parking lot A is available. Please proceed to the entrance" is displayed on an electronic bulletin board, or a message is output from a speaker. (Processing Example 2) An instruction is given to a control device (not shown) of the gate installed at the entrance to the target area to open the gate, thereby permitting the target vehicle 10 to enter.

[0074] (Processing Example 3) The output device 20 outputs information indicating that entry into the target area is not permitted. The output device 20 is installed at the entrance to the target area or just before the entrance. For example, a message such as "You cannot enter Expressway C from AAA Interchange due to overweight" is displayed on an electronic bulletin board or output as audio from a speaker. (Processing Example 4) An instruction is given to a control device (not shown) of a gate installed at the entrance to the target area not to open the gate, and the target vehicle 10 is not permitted to enter.

[0075] (Processing Example 5) The output device 20 is caused to output information providing guidance to an area other than the target area. For example, if the target area is a parking lot, guidance is provided to other parking lots in the vicinity of the parking lot (e.g., within a 2-km radius) that have a weight allowance heavier than the weight of the target vehicle 10. One example of a guidance method is to display information indicating the content of the guidance on the output device 20, such as an electronic signboard installed in front of the entrance to the target area. Another example of a guidance method is to output output information via a receiver, application, or the like to an on-board device installed in the target vehicle 10 or a communication device brought into the target vehicle 10. (Processing Example 6) If the target vehicle 10 uses a navigation system, information suggesting a change in destination or route to avoid entering a target area included in the destination or route is notified to the user U via the navigation system of the target vehicle 10. The specific method is as described above.

[0076] <Operation Example> An example of the processing operation of the information processing device 100 according to the present disclosure will be described below using a flowchart. The flow of Fig. 8 includes the same steps S101 and S103 as the flow of Fig. 2, and further includes steps S121 to S127.

[0077] First, the allowable weight acquisition unit 102 acquires allowable weight information indicating the allowable weight of the target area, which is an area that a vehicle can enter (step S101). Then, the vehicle weight identification unit 104 acquires an image of the target vehicle 10 from the camera 5 (step S121). The vehicle weight identification unit 104 identifies the weight of the target vehicle 10 using the image of the target vehicle 10 (step S103). The method of identifying the weight of the target vehicle 10 is as described above.

[0078] The processing unit 106 determines whether the weight of the target vehicle 10 is lighter than the allowable weight indicated by the allowable weight information for the target area (step S123). If the weight of the target vehicle 10 is lighter than the allowable weight for the target area (YES in step S123), the processing unit 106 performs processing to permit the target vehicle 10 to enter the target area (step S127). Specifically, the processing unit 106 performs at least one of the processing examples 1 and 2 described above.

[0079] On the other hand, if the weight of the target vehicle 10 is heavier than the allowable weight of the target area (NO in step S123), the processing unit 106 performs a process to prohibit the target vehicle 10 from entering the target area (step S125). Specifically, the processing unit 106 performs at least one of the above-mentioned process examples 3 to 5.

[0080] After steps S125 and S127, the process returns to step S121 and waits until an image is transmitted from camera 5. Then, when the information processing device 100 receives an image from camera 5, it resumes the processes from step S121 onwards.

[0081] As described above, in the information processing device 100, the allowable weight acquisition unit 102 acquires the allowable weight of the target area, and the vehicle weight identification unit 104 identifies the weight of the target vehicle 10 using a captured image of the target vehicle 10. Then, the processing unit 106 performs a predetermined process according to the comparison result between the allowable weight of the target area and the weight of the target vehicle 10. For example, if the weight of the vehicle is heavier than the weight allowed by the target area, the processing unit 106 performs a process to prevent the vehicle from entering the target area.

[0082] In recent years, the popularity of electric vehicles has been rapidly increasing. Because the batteries installed in electric vehicles are heavy, the weight of electric vehicles is significantly heavier than that of gasoline-powered vehicles. This places a heavy burden on facilities and infrastructure such as parking lots, roads, and bridges, accelerating damage and deterioration of these facilities, which has become a problem.

[0083] Furthermore, the impact of the excess weight of electric vehicles is not limited to specific facilities such as parking lots, but also extends to all infrastructure facilities such as roads and bridges. The technology described in the above patent document is not intended to determine whether or not such infrastructure facilities can be used. Furthermore, it is not realistic to require all vehicles that use these infrastructure facilities to register information in advance and then determine whether or not they can use the infrastructure facilities.

[0084] According to the information processing device 100 of this embodiment, it is possible to prevent adverse effects on facilities such as parking lots and infrastructure facilities such as roads and bridges due to excessive vehicle weight.

[0085] Since the information processing device 100 does not require the information of the target vehicle 10 to be registered in advance, it can perform predetermined processing on all vehicles that attempt to enter the target area.

[0086] Second Embodiment The information processing device 100 of this embodiment has the same configuration as that shown in Fig. 1. The information processing device 100 of this embodiment is the same as the information processing device 100 of the first embodiment, except that it determines whether or not the target vehicle 10 can enter the target area based on the allowable total weight within the target area and performs predetermined processing. Each element of this embodiment may be combined with each element of one or more embodiments to the extent that no contradiction occurs.

[0087] <Example of functional configuration> The processing unit 106 calculates the total weight of at least one vehicle that is already present in the target area, and performs predetermined processing based on the result of comparing the allowable total weight allowed by the target area with the sum of the total weight of the vehicles and the weight of the target vehicle 10.

[0088] The total weight permitted for the target area is stored in the allowable weight information 200 of FIG. 5 in association with each target area or each section of the target area.

[0089] <Operation Example> The processing operation of the information processing device 100 according to the present disclosure will be described using a flowchart. Note that each step of the flow in Fig. 9 may be combined with each step of the operation example of one or more embodiments to the extent that no contradiction occurs.

[0090] The processing unit 106 calculates the total weight of the vehicles present in the target area (step S111). Then, the processing unit 106 adds the total weight of the vehicles calculated in step S111 to the weight of the target vehicle 10 identified by the vehicle weight identification unit 104 (step S113). Then, the processing unit 106 compares the allowable total weight of the target area with the added weight calculated in step S113, and performs a predetermined process depending on the comparison result (step S115).

[0091] The process in FIG. 9 and the process in FIG. 2 can be performed in parallel.

[0092] As described above, in the information processing device 100 of this embodiment, the processing unit 106 calculates the total weight of at least one vehicle already present in the target area, and performs predetermined processing based on the comparison result between the allowable total weight permitted by the target area and the sum of the total weight of the vehicles and the weight of the target vehicle 10. In this way, the information processing device 100 of this embodiment not only achieves the same effects as the above-mentioned embodiment, but also prevents the target vehicle 10 from entering the target area and exceeding the allowable total weight permitted by the target area, thereby making it possible to prevent adverse effects on facilities such as parking lots and infrastructure facilities such as roads and bridges due to excessive vehicle weight.

[0093] (Third embodiment) The information processing device 100 of this embodiment has the same configuration as the information processing device 100 of the second embodiment described above, except that it has a specific configuration for identifying vehicles present in a target area. Note that each element of the information processing device 100 of this embodiment may be combined with each element of one or more embodiments to the extent that no contradiction occurs.

[0094] <Functional Configuration Example> In this embodiment, cameras 5 are installed at the entrance and exit of each target area. The vehicle weight identification unit 104 identifies vehicles entering and exiting the target area using images captured by the cameras 5 installed at the entrance and exit of the target area. The vehicle weight identification unit 104 then identifies vehicles present within the target area and calculates the total weight of the vehicles present within the target area.

[0095] <Operation Example> The processing operation of the information processing device 100 according to the present disclosure will be described below with reference to a flowchart. The flow of Fig. 10 includes steps S121, S125, and S127, which are the same as those of the flow of Fig. 8, and further includes steps S131 to S139.

[0096] As described above, the total weight allowable for the target area is stored in association with each target area or each section of the target area in the allowable weight information 200 in Fig. 5. First, the allowable weight acquisition unit 102 reads and acquires the allowable total weight for the target area from the allowable weight information 200 (step S131).

[0097] Then, the vehicle weight identification unit 104 acquires an image of the target vehicle 10 taken by the camera 5 installed in front of the entrance to the target area (step S121). Furthermore, the vehicle weight identification unit 104 acquires an image of the vehicle taken by the camera 5 installed at the entrance to the target area (step S133).

[0098] Then, the vehicle weight identification unit 104 uses each image to identify the weight of the target vehicle 10 and each vehicle (step S135). The method of identifying the weight is the same as in the above embodiment.

[0099] Then, the vehicle weight identification unit 104 calculates the total weight by adding the weight of the target vehicle 10 to the total weight of the vehicles present in the target area (step S137). Specifically, the vehicle weight identification unit 104 calculates the total weight by repeatedly adding the weight of the vehicle included in the image taken by the camera 5 at the entrance of the target area to the total weight and subtracting the weight of the vehicle included in the image taken by the camera 5 at the exit of the target area from the total weight.

[0100] 11 , the total weight information 240 records the target vehicles 10 identified by each camera 5 and the vehicle weights for each target area (each section). The total weight information 240 is stored in the storage device 120. The total weight information 240 records the date and time when the vehicle entered (IN in the figure) or left (OUT in the figure), the identified weight of the vehicle, and the calculated total weight.

[0101] Returning to Figure 10, the processing unit 106 calculates the total weight (added weight in the figure) when the target vehicle 10 enters the target area by adding the weight of the target vehicle 10 to the total weight recorded in the total weight information 240.

[0102] The processing unit 106 compares the allowable total weight of the target area with the total weight calculated in step S137. Specifically, the processing unit 106 determines whether the total weight calculated in step S137 is lighter than the allowable total weight of the target area (step S139). If the total weight calculated in step S137 is lighter than the allowable total weight of the target area (YES in step S139), the processing unit 106 performs a process to permit the target vehicle 10 to enter the target area (step S127). On the other hand, if the total weight calculated in step S137 is heavier than the allowable total weight of the target area (NO in step S139), the processing unit 106 performs a process to prohibit the target vehicle 10 from entering the target area (step S125).

[0103] In addition, in steps S121 and S133, the images received from each camera 5 are transmitted from the camera 5 together with the identification information of the camera 5 that took the image. Therefore, the vehicle weight identification unit 104 can identify the location where the camera 5 took the image.

[0104] Information (camera information 250) of the multiple cameras 5 of the information processing system 1 is stored in the storage device 120. As shown in FIG. 12 , the camera information 250 associates, for each target area identified by the target area identification information, the target area name, and the partition, the identification information of the installed camera 5 with information indicating the installation position of the camera 5. In this example, for example, the installation position of a camera 5 installed at the entrance of the target area is indicated as "IN," and the installation position of a camera 5 installed at the exit of the target area is indicated as "OUT" (not shown). Furthermore, the installation position of a camera 5 installed in a position before the entrance of the target area is indicated as "Before." Furthermore, the vehicle weight identification unit 104 may further use a camera 5 installed within the target area. In this case, for example, the installation position of the camera 5 may be indicated as "INSIDE" (not shown).

[0105] The vehicle weight identification unit 104 can identify the photographing position of the received image by acquiring the identification information of each camera 5 together with the image transmitted from the camera 5 .

[0106] As described above, in the information processing device 100 of this embodiment, cameras 5 are installed at the entrance and exit of each target area. The vehicle weight identification unit 104 uses images captured by the cameras 5 installed at the entrance and exit of the target area to identify vehicles entering and exiting the target area. The vehicle weight identification unit 104 then identifies vehicles present within the target area and calculates the total weight of the vehicles present within the target area. In this way, the information processing device 100 of this embodiment can efficiently achieve the same effects as the above embodiment by using images generated by multiple cameras 5.

[0107] Fourth Embodiment An example of the configuration of an information processing device 100 according to the present disclosure will be described below using a block diagram. The information processing device 100 in Fig. 13 further includes a calculation unit 108 in addition to the configuration in Fig. 1. The information processing device 100 in Fig. 13 is similar to the information processing device 100 in Fig. 1 except that it includes the calculation unit 108. Note that the elements in Fig. 13 may be combined with the elements in one or more embodiments to the extent that no contradiction occurs.

[0108] <Example of Functional Configuration> The calculation unit 108 calculates the usage fee for the target area according to the weight of the target vehicle 10 identified by the vehicle weight identification unit 104 .

[0109] For example, the calculation unit 108 increases the usage fee for the target area as the weight of the target vehicle 10 increases. On the other hand, the calculation unit 108 decreases the usage fee for the target area as the weight of the target vehicle 10 decreases.

[0110] Alternatively, the calculation unit 108 may set the usage fee for the target area to a higher fee than the standard fee if the weight of the target vehicle 10 is heavier than a first threshold. Also, the calculation unit 108 may set the usage fee for the target area to a lower fee than the standard fee if the weight of the target vehicle 10 is lighter than a second threshold (here, the first threshold > the second threshold).

[0111] As described above, in the information processing device 100 of this embodiment, the calculation unit 108 calculates the usage fee for the target area according to the weight of the target vehicle 10 identified by the vehicle weight identification unit 104 .

[0112] As described above, the information processing device 100 of this embodiment not only achieves the same effects as the above-described embodiment, but also allows the usage fee for the target area to be calculated according to the weight of the target vehicle 10, so that, for example, a heavier target vehicle 10 can be required to pay a higher usage fee. In other words, the heavier the vehicle, the greater the burden on the target area, so heavier vehicles can be required to bear a greater share of the costs related to maintaining and managing the target area. This provides a sense of fairness to users U of lighter vehicles that impose a smaller burden on the target area.

[0113] Fifth Embodiment An example of the configuration of an information processing device according to the present disclosure will be described below using a block diagram. As shown in FIG. 14 , the information processing device 100 includes a vehicle type identification unit 110 and a processing unit 106. The information processing device 100 of FIG. 14 is similar to the information processing devices 100 of other disclosures, except that it identifies the type of the target vehicle 10 using an image of the target vehicle 10 and performs predetermined processing according to the type. For example, the information processing device 100 does not identify the weight of the target vehicle 10, but performs predetermined processing according to whether the target vehicle 10 is an electric vehicle. Note that the elements of FIG. 14 may be combined with the elements of one or more embodiments to the extent that no contradictions arise. For example, the information processing device 100 may further include the allowable weight acquisition unit 102 of FIG. 1.

[0114] <Example of Functional Configuration> The vehicle type identification unit 110 uses a captured image of the target vehicle 10 to identify the exterior characteristics of the target vehicle 10, and then uses the exterior characteristics to identify the type of the target vehicle 10. Here, the type of the target vehicle 10 is information that indicates at least whether it is an electric vehicle. However, the vehicle type identification unit 110 may identify at least one type of engine vehicle, hybrid vehicle, or fuel cell vehicle in addition to an electric vehicle.

[0115] The processing unit 106 performs predetermined processing depending on the type of the target vehicle 10. In the information processing device 100 of Fig. 1 , the processing unit 106 performs predetermined processing by comparing the allowable weight of vehicles in the target area with the weight of the target vehicle 10. However, in the information processing device 100 of Fig. 14 , the processing unit 106 performs predetermined processing using at least the type of the target vehicle 10. In other words, the processing unit 106 performs predetermined processing depending on whether the target vehicle 10 is an electric vehicle or not, assuming that electric vehicles are heavier than engine vehicles.

[0116] If the type of the target vehicle 10 is an electric vehicle, the processing unit 106 performs a predetermined process of guiding the target vehicle 10 to another target area. If the type of the target vehicle 10 is not an electric vehicle, the processing unit 106 performs a predetermined process of permitting the target vehicle 10 to enter the target area. However, if the target area is a parking lot or the like, and there are restrictions on the number of vehicles or the size of vehicles that can enter, the processing unit 106 may perform a process in accordance with those restrictions.

[0117] 1 or 13. For example, the vehicle type identification unit 110 may identify whether the type of the target vehicle 10 is an electric vehicle, and then the vehicle weight identification unit 104 may identify the weight of the target vehicle 10. For example, if the target vehicle 10 is an electric vehicle, the processing unit 106 may perform a process of guiding the target vehicle 10 to another target area. On the other hand, if the target vehicle 10 is not an electric vehicle, the processing unit 106 may further perform a comparison process using the weight of the target vehicle 10, the weight of vehicles already present in the target area, and the allowable total weight allowed by the target area, and may perform a predetermined process on the target vehicle 10 using the comparison result.

[0118] Alternatively, if the target vehicle 10 is an electric vehicle, the calculation unit 108 may calculate a usage fee for the target area that is higher than the standard.

[0119] <Operation Example> An example of the processing operation of the information processing device according to the present disclosure will be described below using a flowchart. As shown in Fig. 15 , first, the vehicle type identification unit 110 identifies the type of the target vehicle 10 using an image of the target vehicle 10 (step S201). Then, the processing unit 106 performs a predetermined process according to the type of the target vehicle 10 (step S203).

[0120] As described above, in the information processing device 100 of this embodiment, the vehicle type identification unit 110 uses a captured image of the target vehicle 10 to identify the exterior characteristics of the target vehicle 10, and then uses the exterior characteristics to identify the type of the target vehicle 10. Then, the processing unit 106 performs a predetermined process depending on the type of the target vehicle 10.

[0121] As described above, the information processing device 100 of this embodiment achieves the same effects as the above-described embodiment, and furthermore, the information processing device 100 can perform processing according to the type of the target vehicle 10 as long as the type of the target vehicle 10 can be identified, even if the weight of the target vehicle 10 is not identified. Since detailed image analysis processing is not required, the processing load on the information processing device 100 can be reduced. Furthermore, since it is no longer necessary to store feature information required for image analysis for each vehicle type, the storage capacity of the storage device 120 can be reduced.

[0122] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above with reference to the drawings, these are merely examples of the present invention, and various other configurations may be adopted. (Another Embodiment 1) For example, when the vehicle weight identification unit 104 identifies the weight of the target vehicle 10, the vehicle weight identification unit 104 may be configured to take into account the weight of any luggage carried on the target vehicle 10. Specifically, as described in the above embodiment, the vehicle weight identification unit 104 first uses an image to identify the vehicle type of the target vehicle 10 and then identifies its weight. This weight indicates the weight of the target vehicle 10 without any luggage carried on it.

[0123] Furthermore, information that can identify the position of the vehicle body when no luggage is loaded is further associated with each vehicle type and stored in the vehicle-specific appearance information 220 in Figure 6. The vehicle weight identification unit 104 then identifies the amount of vehicle body sinking using the position of the vehicle body when no luggage is loaded and the position of the vehicle body of the target vehicle 10 in the image. The vehicle weight identification unit 104 corrects the weight of the target vehicle 10 according to the amount of vehicle body sinking.

[0124] The greater the amount of sinking, the heavier the vehicle weight identification unit 104 determines the weight of the target vehicle 10. Alternatively, the vehicle weight identification unit 104 may determine whether the amount of sinking is equal to or greater than a threshold, and if it is equal to or greater than the threshold, perform a correction by adding a certain amount to the weight of the target vehicle 10.

[0125] This configuration allows the weight of the target vehicle 10 carrying heavy cargo to be more accurately determined, making it possible to prevent adverse effects on facilities such as parking lots and infrastructure such as roads and bridges due to excessive vehicle weight.

[0126] (Another embodiment 2) In the above embodiment, the weight is determined by identifying the model and type of the target vehicle 10. In another example, the weight may be determined by identifying the body type and type of the target vehicle 10. As shown in Fig. 16, the vehicle-specific weight information 210 is stored in the storage device 120 in such a manner that the vehicle weight is associated with the vehicle body type and type.

[0127] The body type is information indicating the type of vehicle, such as a sedan, compact car, 4WD, minivan, minivan, light car, truck, or bus. The type is information indicating at least one of an electric vehicle, an engine vehicle, a hybrid vehicle, or a fuel cell vehicle. The weight may be set to a standard weight for each common body type.

[0128] The vehicle weight identification unit 104 processes a captured image of the target vehicle 10 to identify the body type and classification of the target vehicle 10, and reads and acquires the corresponding weight from the vehicle-specific weight information 210. For example, the vehicle weight identification unit 104 may identify the body type based on the shape and size of the target vehicle 10. Furthermore, the vehicle weight identification unit 104 may identify the classification as an electric vehicle or not based on the presence or absence of an exhaust port on the target vehicle 10. In other words, if the target vehicle 10 does not have an exhaust port, the vehicle weight identification unit 104 may identify the target vehicle 10 as an electric vehicle. As described above, if it is not possible to identify whether the target vehicle 10 is an electric vehicle or not, the vehicle weight identification unit 104 may identify the type of the target vehicle 10 as an electric vehicle.

[0129] According to this configuration, the weight of the target vehicle 10 can be identified without identifying the vehicle model of the target vehicle 10, thereby reducing the processing load on the information processing device 100. Furthermore, since it is not necessary to store feature values ​​for each vehicle model, the storage capacity of the storage device 120 can be reduced.

[0130] (Other Embodiment 3) In the above embodiment, an example was described in which, as a predetermined process, processing is performed to prohibit entry into the target area when the weight or total weight allowed for the target area is exceeded. In another embodiment, the processing unit 106 may permit entry, but may further have a function to perform processing to increase the usage fee for the target area above the regular fee (or reduce the discount rate, etc.) as a predetermined process. The fee may be set according to the amount of excess weight, with the fee increasing the greater the excess amount. The fee may be set in stages according to the excess weight, or may be set according to the ratio of the excess weight to the allowable weight.

[0131] (Other embodiment 4) Furthermore, when processing is performed to prohibit entry into a target area, or when processing is performed to output information suggesting another destination or another route, the processing unit 106 may further have a function of granting an incentive to the target vehicle 10 that cancels entry into the target area and takes a detour or changes its destination.

[0132] The processing unit 106 acquires the location information of the target vehicle 10 that has been prohibited from entering the target area or has been suggested to take a detour, and if it determines that the target vehicle 10 has avoided entering the target area, it performs processing to grant an incentive to the target vehicle 10.

[0133] Examples of incentives that can be given include, but are not limited to, awarding points, distributing electronic coupons, discounts on the usage fees of the detour destination, and discounts on the next usage fees of the target area.

[0134] (Another embodiment 5) In the third embodiment, the information processing device 100 calculates the total weight of vehicles present in the target area and performs a predetermined process (such as a process of prohibiting or permitting entry into the target area) by comparing the total weight with the allowable total weight of the target area. In another embodiment, the processing unit 106 may perform the predetermined process of outputting information indicating, for example, how many more vehicles can enter the target area or how many more vehicles must exit before the toll becomes the regular toll (or the discounted toll).

[0135] Specifically, the information processing device 100 performs the following processing. First, the vehicle weight identification unit 104 calculates the total weight of vehicles currently present in the target area based on the image transmitted from the camera 5. If the calculated total vehicle weight is less than the allowable total weight of the target area, the processing unit 106 uses the average vehicle weight to calculate how many more vehicles can enter the target area. Then, the processing unit 106 performs processing to cause vehicles present in an area before the position at which they will enter the target area to include the number of vehicles that can enter the target area in the output information and output the information.

[0136] Furthermore, if the calculated total vehicle weight exceeds the allowable total weight of the target area, the processing unit 106 calculates the usage fee for currently entering the target area, and also calculates, using the average vehicle weight, how many more vehicles need to exit before the usage fee for entering the target area will become the regular fee (or whether a discount will be applied, etc.).The processing unit 106 then uses the calculated number of vehicles to perform processing to output information indicating how many more vehicles need to exit before the usage fee for entering the target area will become the regular fee (or whether a discount will be applied, etc.), and includes this information in the output information.

[0137] Another example of the present disclosure may be a program that causes at least one computer to execute the above-disclosed method, or a computer-readable recording medium on which such a program is recorded. This recording medium includes a non-transitory tangible medium. This computer program includes computer program code that, when executed by a computer, causes the computer to perform the information processing method on an information processing device.

[0138] Any combination of the above components, and conversion of the present disclosure into a method, device, system, recording medium, computer program, etc., are also valid aspects of the present disclosure.

[0139] Furthermore, the various components of the present disclosure do not necessarily have to be independent entities, but may be formed as a single member by multiple components, one component may be formed from multiple components, one component may be a part of another component, or part of one component may overlap with part of another component, etc.

[0140] Furthermore, although the methods and computer programs disclosed herein describe a number of steps in a sequential order, the order in which the steps are performed does not limit the order in which the steps are performed. Therefore, when implementing the methods and computer programs disclosed herein, the order of the steps can be changed as long as it does not cause any problems in terms of the content.

[0141] Furthermore, the steps of the method and computer program disclosed herein are not limited to being executed at different times, and may be executed while one step is being executed, or may be executed partially or entirely overlapping with another step, etc.

[0142] Although the present disclosure has been described above with reference to the embodiments, the present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiments. Various modifications that can be understood by those skilled in the art can be made to the configuration and details of the present disclosure within the scope of the present disclosure. Furthermore, each embodiment can be combined with other embodiments as appropriate. Note that, when information about a user (user U) is acquired and used in the present disclosure, this must be done lawfully.

[0143] In addition, although the flowcharts used in the above description show a sequence of steps (processes), the order of steps executed in each embodiment is not limited to the sequence shown in the flowcharts. In each embodiment, the order of steps shown in the diagrams can be changed as long as it does not cause any problems in terms of the content.

[0144] Some or all of the above embodiments can be described as, but are not limited to, the following notes: 1. An information processing device comprising: an allowable weight acquisition means for acquiring allowable weight information indicating the weight allowable for a target area, which is an area where a vehicle can enter; a vehicle weight identification means for identifying the weight of a target vehicle, which is a vehicle that is about to enter or has entered the target area, using an image taken of the target vehicle; and a processing means for performing predetermined processing in accordance with the result of comparing the allowable weight indicated by the allowable weight information for the target area with the weight of the target vehicle. 2. An information processing device comprising: a vehicle type identification means for identifying external characteristics of a target vehicle, which is a vehicle that is about to enter or has entered the target area, using an image taken of the target vehicle, and identifying the type of the target vehicle using the external characteristics; and a processing means for performing predetermined processing in accordance with the type of the target vehicle. The information processing device described in any one of items 1. to 3., further comprising: an allowable weight acquisition means for acquiring allowable weight information indicating the weight allowable in a target area, which is an area where a vehicle can enter; and a vehicle weight identification means for identifying the weight of a target vehicle, which is a vehicle that is about to enter or has entered the target area, using an image of the target vehicle, wherein the processing means performs predetermined processing in accordance with a comparison result between the allowable weight indicated by the allowable weight information for the target area and the weight of the target vehicle. 4. The information processing device described in any one of items 1. to 3., wherein the processing means calculates the total weight of vehicles already present in the target area, and performs the predetermined processing in accordance with a comparison result between the total weight allowable in the target area and the sum of the total weight of the vehicles and the weight of the target vehicle. 5. The information processing device described in any one of items 1. to 4., wherein the processing means performs the predetermined processing by guiding the user to another area if the comparison result indicates that the weight of the vehicle is heavier than the allowable weight of the target area. 6. The information processing device described in any one of items 1. to 5. In the information processing device described in any one of the above, the vehicle weight identification means identifies an external feature of the target vehicle using an image of the target vehicle, and identifies a weight of the target vehicle using the external feature.7. An information processing device according to any one of items 1. to 7., wherein the vehicle weight identification means, when the weight of the target vehicle cannot be identified from the external characteristics of the target vehicle, identifies the vehicle number of the target vehicle using the image, and identifies the weight of the target vehicle using the vehicle number. 8. An information processing device according to any one of items 1. to 7., wherein the vehicle weight identification means, when using an image of the target vehicle, identifies the vehicle model of the target vehicle, and identifies the weight of the target vehicle using the vehicle model. 9. An information processing device according to item 8., wherein the vehicle model includes whether it is an electric vehicle or an engine vehicle. 10. An information processing device according to item 8. or 9., wherein the vehicle weight identification means, when the vehicle model of the target vehicle cannot be identified, uses a reference value as the weight of the target vehicle. 11. An information processing device according to any one of items 1. to 10., wherein the image used by the vehicle weight identification means is generated by an imaging means provided at the entrance of the target area. 12. 1. 13. The information processing device described in any one of 1. to 12., wherein the vehicle weight identification means further identifies an amount of sinking of the target vehicle using the image, and corrects the weight of the target vehicle using the amount of sinking. 13. The information processing device described in any one of 1. to 12., further comprising a calculation means for calculating a usage fee for the target area according to the weight of the target vehicle identified by the vehicle weight identification means. 14. The information processing device described in any one of 1. to 13., wherein the target area is one of a parking lot, a bridge, and a highway.

[0145] 15. An information processing method in which one or more computers acquire allowable weight information indicating the weight allowable for a target area, which is an area where vehicles can enter, identify the weight of a target vehicle that is about to enter or has entered the target area using an image of the target vehicle, and perform predetermined processing depending on the result of comparing the allowable weight indicated by the allowable weight information for the target area with the weight of the target vehicle. 16. An information processing method in which one or more computers use an image of a target vehicle that is about to enter or has entered the target area to identify external characteristics of the target vehicle, identify the type of the target vehicle using the external characteristics, and perform predetermined processing depending on the type of the target vehicle. 17. 17. A program for causing a computer to execute: an allowable weight acquisition process for acquiring allowable weight information indicating the weight allowable for a target area, which is an area where vehicles can enter; a vehicle weight identification process for identifying the weight of a target vehicle, which is a vehicle that is about to enter or has entered the target area, using an image of the target vehicle; and a process for performing predetermined processing depending on the result of comparing the allowable weight indicated by the allowable weight information for the target area with the weight of the target vehicle. 18. A program for causing a computer to execute: a vehicle type identification process for identifying the external characteristics of a target vehicle, which is a vehicle that is about to enter or has entered a target area, using an image of the target vehicle, and identifying the type of the target vehicle using the external characteristics; and a process for performing predetermined processing depending on the type of the target vehicle. An information processing system comprising: an imaging device that generates an image of a target vehicle that is about to enter or has entered a target area; and an information processing device, wherein the information processing device comprises: an allowable weight acquisition means that acquires allowable weight information indicating the weight allowable for the target area, which is an area where vehicles can enter; a vehicle weight identification means that identifies the weight of the target vehicle that is about to enter or has entered the target area using an image of the target vehicle; and a processing means that performs predetermined processing depending on the result of comparing the allowable weight indicated by the allowable weight information for the target area with the weight of the target vehicle.20. An information processing system comprising: an imaging device that generates an image of a target vehicle that is entering or has entered a target area; and an information processing device, wherein the information processing device comprises: vehicle type identification means that uses the image of the target vehicle that is entering or has entered the target area to identify external characteristics of the target vehicle and uses the external characteristics to identify the type of the target vehicle; and processing means that performs predetermined processing depending on the type of the target vehicle. 21. The information processing system described in 19. or 20., further comprising an output device, wherein the processing means of the information processing device outputs, as the predetermined output, information to the output device to prevent the target vehicle from entering the target area if the weight of the target vehicle is heavier than the allowable weight indicated by the allowable weight information for the target area. 22. 22. A recording medium storing a program for causing a computer to execute: an allowable weight acquisition process that acquires allowable weight information indicating the weight allowable for a target area, which is an area where vehicles can enter; a vehicle weight identification process that uses a photographed image of a target vehicle, which is a vehicle that is about to enter or has entered the target area, to identify the weight of the target vehicle; and a process that performs predetermined processing depending on the result of comparing the allowable weight indicated by the allowable weight information for the target area with the weight of the target vehicle. 23. A recording medium storing a program for causing a computer to execute: a vehicle type identification process that uses a photographed image of a target vehicle, which is a vehicle that is about to enter or has entered a target area, to identify external characteristics of the target vehicle and use the external characteristics to identify the type of the target vehicle; and a process that performs predetermined processing depending on the type of the target vehicle.

[0146] Furthermore, part or all of the configurations described in Supplementary Notes 3 to 14 that are dependent on the information processing device of Supplementary Note 1 or Supplementary Note 2 described above may also be dependent on the information processing method of Supplementary Note 15 or Supplementary Note 16, and the program of Supplementary Note 17 or Supplementary Note 18 in the same dependent relationship as Supplementary Note 3 to Supplementary Note 14. Furthermore, not limited to Supplementary Note 1, Supplementary Note 2, Supplementary Note 15, Supplementary Note 16, Supplementary Note 17, and Supplementary Note 18, part or all of the configurations described as Supplements may be similarly made dependent on various hardware, software, various recording means for recording software, or systems, within the scope of each of the above-mentioned embodiments.

[0147] This application claims priority based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2023-138346, filed on August 28, 2023, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein in its entirety.

[0148] REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 1 Information processing system 3 Communication network 5 Camera 10 Target vehicle 20 Output device 100 Information processing device 102 Allowable weight acquisition unit 104 Vehicle weight identification unit 106 Processing unit 108 Calculation unit 110 Vehicle type identification unit 120 Storage device 200 Allowable weight information 210 Vehicle-specific weight information 220 Vehicle-specific appearance information 230 Vehicle-specific weight information 240 Total weight information 250 Camera information 1000 Computer 1010 Bus 1020 Processor 1030 Memory 1040 Storage device 1050 Input / output interface 1060 Network interface

Claims

1. A means for acquiring permissible weight information that indicates the permissible weight of a target area which is an area into which a vehicle can enter, A vehicle weight identification means that identifies the weight of a target vehicle using an image of the target vehicle which is about to enter or is about to enter the aforementioned target area, An information processing apparatus comprising processing means that performs predetermined processing according to the result of comparing the allowable weight indicated by the allowable weight information of the target area with the weight of the target vehicle.

2. In the information processing apparatus according to claim 1, The processing means is An information processing device that determines the total weight of vehicles already present in the target area, and performs the predetermined processing according to the result of comparing the total weight permitted by the target area with the sum of the total weight of the vehicles and the weight of the target vehicles.

3. In the information processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, The processing means, as the predetermined processing, An information processing device that, if the comparison result indicates that the weight of the vehicle is heavier than the allowable weight of the target area, performs a process to guide the user to another area.

4. In the information processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, The vehicle weight determination means is an information processing device that uses an image of the target vehicle to determine the external characteristics of the target vehicle, and uses those external characteristics to determine the weight of the target vehicle.

5. In the information processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, The vehicle weight identification means is an information processing device that identifies the type of vehicle using an image of the vehicle, and identifies the weight of the vehicle using the vehicle type.

6. In the information processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, The vehicle weight identification means further includes an information processing device that uses the image to identify the amount of sinking of the target vehicle and corrects the weight of the target vehicle using the amount of sinking.

7. In the information processing apparatus according to claim 5, The aforementioned vehicle type includes whether it is an electric vehicle or a gasoline-powered vehicle, and is an information processing device.

8. An imaging device that generates an image of a target vehicle that is about to enter or is about to enter a target area, Equipped with an information processing device, The aforementioned information processing device is A means for acquiring permissible weight information that indicates the permissible weight of a target area which is an area into which a vehicle can enter, A vehicle weight identification means that identifies the weight of a target vehicle using an image of the target vehicle which is about to enter or is about to enter the aforementioned target area, An information processing system comprising processing means that performs predetermined processing according to the result of comparing the allowable weight indicated by the allowable weight information of the target area with the weight of the target vehicle.

9. One or more computers, Obtain permissible weight information indicating the weight that can be allowed in the target area, which is the area in which a vehicle can enter. Using images of a target vehicle that is about to enter or is about to enter the aforementioned target area, the weight of the target vehicle is determined. A predetermined process is performed according to the comparison result between the allowable weight indicated by the allowable weight information of the target area and the weight of the target vehicle. Information processing methods.

10. On the computer, A process to obtain permissible weight information that indicates the weight that a target area, which is an area in which a vehicle can enter, is permitted to carry. A vehicle weight determination process that determines the weight of a target vehicle using an image of the target vehicle which is about to enter or is about to enter the aforementioned target area. A program for performing a predetermined process according to the result of comparing the allowable weight indicated by the allowable weight information of the target area with the weight of the target vehicle.