Information processing device, information processing method, and program

Abstract

The present technology relates to an information processing device, an information processing method, and a program that make it possible to provide a new system for a method for bearing costs of a battery of a mobile body. An information processing device according to the present technology comprises: a calculation unit that is mounted on a mobile body and that calculates, on the basis of a charge amount or a discharge amount of a battery which supplies electric power for the movement of the mobile body, a battery usage fee which is for the use of the battery; and an information generation unit that generates fee information which includes information pertaining to the battery usage fee. The present technology can be applied to, for example, a server of a business operator that is engaged in business relating to a battery of an electric vehicle.

Description

Information processing device, information processing method, and program

[0001] The present technology relates to an information processing device, an information processing method, and a program, and in particular to an information processing device, an information processing method, and a program that are applicable to a business model that uses a battery of a mobile object.

[0002] In order to reduce the financial burden on users when purchasing a new car, a system has been proposed that predicts the price of a used car N years from now and sets the loan amount based on the amount minus that price (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

[0003] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2019-16171

[0004] In contrast, in EVs (Electric Vehicles), which have become increasingly popular in recent years, batteries are expensive, which places a heavy financial burden on users.

[0005] On the other hand, it is expected that EV batteries can be used for other purposes, such as as stationary batteries, even after the useful life of the vehicle body has expired. Therefore, it is expected that the monetary value of EV batteries will decline at a smaller rate than that of the vehicle body.

[0006] In consideration of these factors, a new system for covering the cost of EV batteries is desired in order to reduce the financial burden on users when purchasing an EV.

[0007] The present technology has been made in consideration of such circumstances, and makes it possible to provide a new mechanism for covering the costs of batteries for mobile bodies that run on battery power, such as EVs.

[0008] An information processing device according to one aspect of the present technology includes a calculation unit that calculates a battery usage fee, which is a usage fee for a battery mounted on a mobile body and that supplies power for the mobile body's movement, based on the charge or discharge amount of the battery, and an information generation unit that generates fee information including information related to the battery usage fee.

[0009] In an information processing method according to one aspect of the present technology, an information processing device calculates a battery usage fee, which is a usage fee for a battery mounted on a mobile body and supplies power for the mobile body's movement, based on the charge or discharge amount of the battery, and generates fee information including information regarding the battery usage fee.

[0010] A program according to one aspect of the present technology causes a computer to execute a process of calculating a battery usage fee, which is a usage fee for a battery mounted on a mobile body and supplying power for the mobile body's movement, based on the charge or discharge amount of the battery, and generating fee information including information regarding the battery usage fee.

[0011] In one aspect of the present technology, a battery usage fee, which is the fee for using a battery that is mounted on a mobile body and supplies power for the mobile body's movement, is calculated based on the charge or discharge amount of the battery, and fee information including information regarding the battery usage fee is generated.

[0012] Fig. 1 is a diagram showing an overview of a business model to which the present technology is applied. Fig. 2 is a graph showing the relationship between a vehicle's mileage and the cost incurred by the vehicle. Fig. 3 is a block diagram showing an example configuration of an information processing system to which the present technology is applied. Fig. 4 is a block diagram showing an example configuration of a vehicle. Fig. 5 is a block diagram showing an example configuration of a battery operation server. Fig. 6 is a flowchart for explaining a billing fee notification process. Fig. 7 is a block diagram showing an example configuration of a computer.

[0013] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present technology will be described. The description will be made in the following order: 1. Example of a business model 2. Embodiment 3. Modification 4. Other

[0014] <<1. Example of a Business Model>> First, an example of a business model to which the present technology is applied will be described.

[0015] Due to the high cost of batteries, EVs tend to be more expensive than engine-powered vehicles of the same class at the time of filing of the present technology. The fees for leasing, renting, etc. of EVs are also set based on the price of EVs, so they tend to be more expensive than the fees for leasing, renting, etc. of engine-powered vehicles of the same class. Therefore, when purchasing, leasing, renting, etc. of an EV, it is expected that the burden on the user will be greater than when purchasing, leasing, renting, etc. of an engine-powered vehicle of the same class.

[0016] On the other hand, compared to the vehicle body, the battery of an EV deteriorates more slowly and its monetary value decreases more slowly if the battery is properly controlled. For example, the monetary value of an EV body decreases significantly after its useful life (e.g., about 10 years) has passed. On the other hand, an EV battery can be reused, repurposed, or recycled, for example, even after the useful life of the vehicle body has passed. For example, an EV battery can be repurposed and used as a stationary battery or the like after the EV is scrapped (repurposed). Therefore, it is expected that the monetary value of an EV battery will remain to some extent even after the useful life of the vehicle body has passed.

[0017] In consideration of the above, in a business model to which the present technology is applied, when a user purchases an EV, the battery operation company bears at least a portion of the cost of the EV battery, thereby reducing the financial burden required for the user to purchase an EV.

[0018] In response to this, the battery operation company acquires at least some of the rights related to the EV battery. Furthermore, the battery operation company can earn income using the battery within the scope of the acquired rights. As a result, the battery operation company can earn income that exceeds the costs it has incurred (hereinafter referred to as the "contribution") in exchange for bearing at least some of the costs of the EV battery.

[0019] Here, an overview of a business model to which the present technology is applied will be described with reference to FIG.

[0020] Unless otherwise specified, the user hereinafter refers to the owner of the vehicle 11.

[0021] For example, a user owns a vehicle 11 and an information processing terminal 13 .

[0022] The vehicle 11 is an EV that runs on power from a battery 12 .

[0023] The information processing terminal 13 is configured by, for example, a smartphone, a tablet terminal, a PC (Personal Computer), etc. For example, the user can use the information processing terminal 13 to obtain information about the vehicle 11 and provide the information to an external party. Also, for example, the user can use a predetermined application (hereinafter referred to as a battery operation APP) provided by a battery operation company using the information processing terminal 13. The user can also use the battery operation APP in the vehicle 11.

[0024] The battery operation company bears at least a part of the cost of the battery 12 when the user purchases the vehicle 11. For example, the battery operation company may pay the charge for the battery 12 to the user or to the purchaser of the vehicle 11.

[0025] In response to this, the battery operation business acquires at least some of the rights related to the battery 12. Specifically, the battery operation business acquires, as rights related to the battery 12, at least the right to obtain battery usage fees and the right to take back the battery.

[0026] The right to obtain battery usage fees is the right to obtain the usage fees for the battery 12 on a pay-per-use basis. The usage fees for the battery 12 are calculated based on, for example, the amount of usage of the battery 12. More specifically, the usage fees for the battery 12 are calculated based on, for example, the amount of charge or discharge of the battery 12.

[0027] The battery collection right is the right to acquire the used battery 12 after the use of the battery 12 in the vehicle 11 has ceased due to scrapping or the like. In this case, for example, if the battery operating company does not own the battery 12 before scrapping, or only owns part of the battery 12, the entire ownership of the battery 12 is transferred to the battery operating company after scrapping.

[0028] After receiving the used battery 12, the battery operating company can earn income by, for example, reusing, repurposing, or recycling the battery 12. Note that repurposing means, for example, using the battery 12 for another purpose, such as a stationary storage battery. Reusing means, for example, disassembling the battery 12, sorting the cells, and reusing the sorted cells in another battery. Recycling means, for example, disassembling the battery 12 down to the material level and using the materials to manufacture a new battery. For example, the battery operating company can sell the battery 12 to a stationary battery operator and receive a battery purchase fee from the stationary battery operator. On the other hand, the battery 12 can be repurposed as a stationary battery, effectively utilizing it without being discarded.

[0029] The used battery 12 may be supplied directly from the user to the reuse destination, repurpose destination, or reuse destination without going through the battery operation business. Also, the battery operation business may receive a battery purchase fee from the reuse destination, repurpose destination, or reuse destination, for example.

[0030] Furthermore, the battery operating company may further acquire, for example, at least a portion of the ownership of the battery 12, the right to obtain revenue, the right to obtain data, and the like.

[0031] The revenue acquisition right is, for example, the right to acquire at least a portion of the revenue obtained by using the battery 12 while the user owns the battery 12. For example, if the user supplies (sells) electricity to an electric power company using a VPP (Virtual Power Plant), the battery operation company can acquire at least a portion of the electricity purchase fee from the electric power company. In this case, the electricity purchase fee may be split between the user and the battery operation company, or the battery operation company may acquire the entire electricity purchase fee.

[0032] The data acquisition right is, for example, the right to acquire at least a portion of data (hereinafter referred to as battery data) related to the battery 12. The battery data is, for example, data indicating the usage status of the battery 12. The usage status of the battery 12 includes, for example, at least one of the date and time of use, the amount of discharge, the date and time of charge, the amount of charge, the charge state (e.g., SOC (State Of Charge)), and the degradation state (e.g., SOH (State Of Health)) of the battery 12.

[0033] For example, the vehicle 11 uploads vehicle body data including battery data to the data exchange and sharing system 21. The vehicle body data includes, for example, the battery data described above as well as data indicating the usage status of the vehicle 11. The usage status of the vehicle 11 includes, for example, data such as the location of travel, travel date and time, and travel speed.

[0034] For example, a server 14 owned by a battery operation company (hereinafter referred to as a battery operation server) can download data including battery data, which is at least a part of the vehicle body data, from the data exchange and sharing system 21.

[0035] The data exchange and sharing system 21 is a system that includes, for example, a communication network and a server, and exchanges and shares various data in the automotive industry, such as CATENA-X and MOBI (Mobility Open Blockchain Initiative).

[0036] The data exchange and sharing system 21 supplies, for example, at least a portion of the vehicle body data acquired from each vehicle 11 to a service provider's server (hereinafter referred to as a service providing server) 18. The service provider (service providing server 17) provides various services, for example, based on the vehicle body data from each vehicle 11. For example, the service providing server 17 provides services such as advertisements and information about the surrounding area of ​​the vehicle 11 to the vehicle 11 or the information processing terminal 13.

[0037] For example, the battery operation server 14 may acquire vehicle body data including battery data from the vehicle 11 or the information processing terminal 13 via a communication network or the like.

[0038] The rights regarding the battery 12 described above are merely examples, and the types and contents of the rights may be changed as necessary.

[0039] In this way, when the user purchases the vehicle 11, the battery operation company covers at least a portion of the costs related to the battery 12, thereby reducing the cost of purchasing the vehicle 11.

[0040] For example, Fig. 2 is a graph that schematically shows the costs required to purchase and use the vehicle 11. The horizontal axis of the graph represents the mileage (or the amount of charge) of the vehicle 11. The vertical axis of the graph represents the costs (purchase cost of the vehicle 11 plus running costs).

[0041] For simplicity of explanation, the running costs of the vehicle 11 will be limited to the charging fee and the battery usage fee.

[0042] The dashed dotted line L1 shows the change in the costs borne by the user when the business model described above with reference to Figure 1 is not used. The solid line L2 shows the change in the costs borne by the user when the business model described above with reference to Figure 1 is used.

[0043] For example, if a user does not use the above-described business model, the purchase cost of the vehicle 11 will be an amount P1, which is the price of the vehicle 11 including the battery 12. After purchasing the vehicle 11, the user will pay a charging fee to the charging station every time the vehicle is charged at the charging station. In other words, the cost of the vehicle 11 will be the sum of the amount P1, which is the purchase cost of the vehicle 11, and the charging fee required according to the mileage, and will change as shown by line L1.

[0044] On the other hand, when the user uses the above-described business model, at least a portion of the cost of the battery 12 is borne by the battery operating company, so the user can keep the purchase cost of the vehicle 11 to an amount P2, which is lower than the amount P1. After purchasing the vehicle 11, the user pays a charging fee to the charging station each time the vehicle is charged at the charging station. The user also pays a battery usage fee to the battery operating company according to the amount of charge or discharge of the battery 12. In other words, the cost of the vehicle 11 is the sum of the amount P2, which is the purchase cost of the vehicle 11, and the charging fee and battery usage fee required according to the mileage, and changes as shown by line L2.

[0045] As shown in FIG. 2, the user can keep the costs of the vehicle 11 low until the travel distance of the vehicle 11 reaches the distance D1.

[0046] Therefore, by appropriately setting the charge (P1-P2) for the battery 12 and the battery usage fee, the user can purchase and use the vehicle 11 at a lower cost than usual.

[0047] On the other hand, the battery operating company can recover the cost of the battery 12 through the battery usage fee. Even if the battery operating company is unable to recover all of the cost of the battery 12 through the battery usage fee, it can still recover the cost of the battery 12 by selling the used battery 12 or earning profits from the battery 12 using VPP or the like.

[0048] <<2. Embodiment>> Next, an embodiment of the present technology will be described with reference to FIGS. 3 to 6 .

[0049] <Configuration Example of Information Processing System 1> FIG. 3 shows a configuration example of an information processing system 1 to which the present technology is applied and which realizes the business model of FIG.

[0050] The information processing system 1 includes a vehicle 11 , an information processing terminal 13 , a battery operation server 14 , a charging station server 15 , a power company server 16 , and a service providing server 17 .

[0051] The charging station server 15 is a server owned by the charging station as shown in Fig. 1. The electric power company server 16 is a server owned by the electric power company as shown in Fig. 1.

[0052] The vehicle 11, the information processing terminal 13, the battery operation server 14, the charging station server 15, the power company server 16, and the service providing server 17 exchange and share various data, for example, via a data exchange and sharing system 21. The vehicle 11 and the information processing terminal 13 also communicate directly with each other to send and receive various data.

[0053] In addition, the vehicle 11, the information processing terminal 13, the battery operation server 14, the charging station server 15, the electric power company server 16, and the service providing server 17 may communicate directly via a communication network such as the Internet, for example, without going through the data exchange / sharing system 21.

[0054] 3 illustrates one each of the vehicle 11, information processing terminal 13, battery operation server 14, charging station server 15, power company server 16, data exchange and sharing system 21, and service providing server 17, but two or more of each may be provided. For example, the following describes processing for one vehicle 11 and battery 12, but the information processing system 1 actually includes multiple vehicles 11, and similar processing is performed in each vehicle 11.

[0055] For example, the vehicle 11 exchanges and shares various data with other devices via the data exchange / sharing system 21. For example, the vehicle 11 generates vehicle body data including battery data related to the battery 12, and shares the data with other devices or transmits the data to the information processing terminal 13 via the data exchange / sharing system 21. For example, the vehicle 11 uses various services provided by the service providing server 17.

[0056] The information processing terminal 13 exchanges and shares various data with other devices via the data exchange / sharing system 21. For example, the information processing terminal 13 adds data about the user, etc., to the vehicle body data received from the vehicle 11 as needed, and shares the data with other devices via the data exchange / sharing system 21. For example, the information processing terminal 13 uses various services provided by the service providing server 17.

[0057] The battery operation server 14 exchanges and shares various data with other devices via the data exchange / sharing system 21. For example, the battery operation server 14 generates fee information including information on fees to be charged to users, such as battery usage fees, and shares the information with other devices via the data exchange / sharing system 21.

[0058] The charging station server 15 exchanges and shares various data with other devices via the data exchange and sharing system 21. For example, the charging station server 15 generates battery charging information related to the charging of the battery 12 of the vehicle 11 and shares the information with other devices via the data exchange and sharing system 21. The battery charging information includes, for example, identification information of the charged vehicle 11, the charging date and time of the battery 12, the charging amount, the charging fee, and the charging method (for example, quick charging or normal charging).

[0059] The electric power company server 16 exchanges and shares various data with other devices via the data exchange and sharing system 21. For example, the electric power company server 16 generates power purchase information related to the purchase of power from the battery 12 of the vehicle 11, etc., and shares the information with other devices via the data exchange and sharing system 21. The power purchase information includes, for example, the date and time of the power purchase, the amount purchased, the purchase price, and information on the source of the power purchase (e.g., seller, supplier).

[0060] The service providing server 17 exchanges and shares various data with other devices via the data exchange / sharing system 21. For example, the service providing server 17 generates service information for providing various services and shares the service information with other devices via the data exchange / sharing system 21.

[0061] <Configuration Example of Vehicle 11> FIG. 4 shows a configuration example of the vehicle 11 of the information processing system 1 of FIG.

[0062] The vehicle control system 101 is provided in the vehicle 11 and performs processing related to automated driving of the vehicle 11. This automated driving includes levels 1 to 5 of automated driving, as well as remote driving and / or remote assistance of the vehicle 11 by a remote driver. The level of automated driving may refer to the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) J3016™ APL2021 Levels of Driving Automation, with SAE Level 0 representing the lowest level of automated driving and SAE Level 5 representing the highest level of automated driving. For example, SAE Level 1 automated driving may be comprised of driver assistance functions that provide steering or braking / acceleration support to the driver, and SAE Level 5 automated driving may be comprised of automated driving functions that can drive the vehicle under all conditions.

[0063] The vehicle control system 101 includes a vehicle control ECU (Electronic Control Unit) 121, a communication unit 122, a map information storage unit 123, a location information acquisition unit 124, an external recognition sensor 125, an in-vehicle sensor 126, a vehicle sensor 127, a memory unit 128, a driving automation control unit 129, a DMS (Driver Monitoring System) 130, an HMI (Human Machine Interface) 131, a vehicle control unit 132, and a BMS (Battery Management System) 133.

[0064] Two or more (or in some cases, all) of the vehicle control ECU 121, communication unit 122, map information storage unit 123, position information acquisition unit 124, external recognition sensor 125, in-vehicle sensor 126, vehicle sensor 127, memory unit 128, driving automation control unit 129, DMS 130, HMI 131, and vehicle control unit 132 are communicatively connected to each other via a communication network 141. The communication network 141 is configured, for example, by an in-vehicle communication network or bus conforming to a digital two-way communication standard such as a Controller Area Network (CAN), a Local Interconnect Network (LIN), a Local Area Network (LAN), FlexRay (registered trademark), or Ethernet (registered trademark). In some embodiments, the communication network 141 may include two or more types of communication networks, and different types of communication networks may be used depending on the type of data being transmitted. For example, a CAN may be used for data related to vehicle control, and an Ethernet may be used for large-volume data. In some embodiments, two or more (or in some cases, all) units of vehicle control system 101 may be directly connected using wireless communication (e.g., communication over a relatively short distance) without using communication network 141. In some embodiments, the wireless communication may use a short-range wireless communication technology. Non-limiting examples of short-range wireless communication technologies include near field communication (NFC) and Bluetooth (registered trademark). In some embodiments, two or more (or in some cases, all) units of vehicle control system 101 may be connected using communication network 141 and a wireless communication technology (e.g., a short-range wireless communication technology).

[0065] Hereinafter, in an embodiment in which two or more units of the vehicle control system 101 communicate with each other via the communication network 141, the description of the communication network 141 will be omitted. For example, in an embodiment in which the vehicle control ECU 121 and the communication unit 122 communicate with each other via the communication network 141, it will simply be described that the vehicle control ECU 121 and the communication unit 122 communicate with each other.

[0066] The vehicle control ECU 121 is configured with various processors such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), an MPU (Micro Processing Unit), etc. The vehicle control ECU 121 controls the entire or part of the functions of the vehicle control system 101.

[0067] The communication unit 122 communicates with various devices inside the vehicle 11 (hereinafter referred to as in-vehicle devices), various devices outside the vehicle 11 (hereinafter referred to as out-vehicle devices), other vehicles, base stations, etc., and transmits and receives various types of data. In some embodiments, the communication unit 122 may communicate using multiple communication technologies.

[0068] A non-limiting example of communication between the communication unit 122 and an external device will now be briefly described. In some embodiments, the communication unit 122 may communicate with a server (hereinafter referred to as an external server) or the like on an external network via a base station or an access point using wireless communication technology. Non-limiting examples of wireless communication technology include 5G (fifth generation mobile communication system), LTE (Long Term Evolution), and DSRC (Dedicated Short Range Communications). Examples of external networks with which the communication unit 122 can communicate include the Internet, a cloud network, or a network specific to a carrier. The communication technology used by the communication unit 122 to communicate with the external network is not particularly limited as long as it is a wireless communication technology that enables digital two-way communication at a communication speed equal to or higher than a predetermined distance.

[0069] In some embodiments, the communication unit 122 may use P2P (Peer to Peer) technology to communicate with a terminal located near the vehicle. The terminal located near the vehicle may be, for example, a terminal attached to a mobile object moving at a relatively slow speed, such as a pedestrian or a bicycle, a terminal installed at a fixed location in a store, and / or an MTC (Machine Type Communication) terminal. In some embodiments, the communication unit 122 may perform V2X (Vehicle to Everything) communication. V2X communication generally refers to communication between the vehicle and another entity. Non-limiting examples of V2X communication include vehicle-to-vehicle communication with another vehicle, vehicle-to-infrastructure communication with a roadside unit, vehicle-to-home communication, and vehicle-to-pedestrian communication with a terminal carried or worn by a pedestrian.

[0070] In some embodiments, the communication unit 122 may receive a program for updating software that controls the operation of the vehicle control system 101 from outside the vehicle 11 (e.g., over the air). In some embodiments, the communication unit 122 may receive map information, traffic information, information about the surroundings of the vehicle 11, etc. from outside the vehicle 11. In some embodiments, the communication unit 122 may transmit information about the vehicle 11 or information about the surroundings of the vehicle 11, etc. to an external device or an external network. Non-limiting examples of information about the vehicle 11 that the communication unit 122 transmits to an external device or an external network include data indicating the status of the vehicle 11, recognition results by the recognition unit 173, etc. In some embodiments, the communication unit 122 may communicate with a vehicle emergency notification system. Non-limiting examples of a vehicle emergency notification system include eCall, etc.

[0071] In some embodiments, the communication unit 122 may receive electromagnetic waves transmitted by a road traffic information communication system. In some embodiments, the electromagnetic waves may be transmitted using a radio beacon, an optical beacon, FM multiplex broadcasting, or the like.

[0072] A non-limiting example of communication with the in-vehicle devices that the communication unit 122 can perform will now be briefly described. In some embodiments, the communication unit 122 may communicate with the in-vehicle devices using wireless communication. For example, in some embodiments, the communication unit 122 may communicate with the in-vehicle devices using wireless communication technology that enables bidirectional digital communication at a predetermined communication speed or higher. Non-limiting examples of wireless communication technology include wireless LAN, Bluetooth, NFC, and WUSB (Wireless USB). Alternatively, the communication unit 122 may communicate with the in-vehicle devices using wired communication (in addition to or as an alternative to wireless communication). For example, in some embodiments, the communication unit 122 may communicate with the in-vehicle devices using wired communication via a cable connected to a connection terminal (not shown). In some embodiments, the communication unit 122 may communicate with the in-vehicle devices using wired communication technology that enables bidirectional digital communication at a predetermined communication speed or higher. Non-limiting examples of wired communication technologies include Universal Serial Bus (USB), High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI)®, and Mobile High-definition Link (MHL).

[0073] Here, the in-vehicle devices refer to, for example, devices inside the vehicle 11 that are not connected to the communication network 141. The in-vehicle devices are divided into devices that constitute the vehicle control system 101 and devices that do not constitute the vehicle control system 101. Non-limiting examples of in-vehicle devices that do not constitute the vehicle control system 101 include mobile devices and wearable devices carried by users of the vehicle 11 (e.g., the driver or passengers), and information devices that are temporarily installed inside the vehicle 11. These devices can, for example, be moved outside the vehicle 11 and become external devices.

[0074] The map information storage unit 123 stores maps acquired from an external device or an external network and / or maps created by the vehicle 11. For example, the map information storage unit 123 may store a three-dimensional high-precision map, a global map that has lower precision than a high-precision map and covers a wide area, or the like.

[0075] The high-precision map may be, for example, a dynamic map, a point cloud map, a vector map, etc. The dynamic map may be, for example, a map consisting of four layers of dynamic information, quasi-dynamic information, quasi-static information, and static information, and may be provided to the vehicle 11 from an external server or the like. The point cloud map may be a map composed of a point cloud (point cloud data). The vector map may be, for example, a map adapted for automated driving by associating traffic information such as the positions of lanes and traffic lights with the point cloud map.

[0076] The point cloud map and the vector map may be provided, for example, from an external server or the like, or may be created in the vehicle 11 based on sensing results from the camera 151, radar 152, LiDAR 153, etc. as a map for matching with a local map described later, and stored in the map information storage unit 123. Furthermore, when a high-precision map is provided from an external server or the like, map data of, for example, an area of ​​several hundred square meters regarding the planned route along which the vehicle 11 will travel may be acquired from the external server or the like in order to reduce communication capacity.

[0077] The position information acquisition unit 124 acquires position information of the vehicle 11. The acquired position information may be provided to the driving automation control unit 129. In some embodiments, the position information acquisition unit 124 may receive GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) signals from GNSS satellites. In some embodiments, the position information acquisition unit 124 may receive signals from beacons or the like.

[0078] The external recognition sensor 125 includes various sensors used to recognize the situation outside the vehicle 11, and supplies sensor data from one or more (or in some cases, all) sensors to one or more (or in some cases, all) units of the vehicle control system 101. The type and number of sensors included in the external recognition sensor 125 are arbitrary.

[0079] In some embodiments, the external recognition sensor 125 may include a camera 151, a radar 152, a LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging, Laser Imaging Detection and Ranging) 153, and an ultrasonic sensor 154. Without being limited to this, the external recognition sensor 125 may be configured to include one or more types of sensors selected from the camera 151, the radar 152, the LiDAR 153, and the ultrasonic sensor 154. The number of cameras 151, radars 152, LiDARs 153, and ultrasonic sensors 154 is not particularly limited as long as the number is a number that can be realistically installed on the vehicle 11. Furthermore, the types of sensors included in the external recognition sensor 125 are not limited to this example, and the external recognition sensor 125 may include other types of sensors. Examples of sensing areas of each sensor included in the external recognition sensor 125 will be described later.

[0080] Camera 151 may use any suitable imaging method. In some embodiments, camera 151 may use an imaging method capable of distance measurement. Non-limiting examples of cameras using imaging methods capable of distance measurement include a time-of-flight (ToF) camera, a stereo camera, a monocular camera, and an infrared camera. Alternatively, camera 151 may simply acquire an image without distance measurement.

[0081] In some embodiments, the external recognition sensor 125 may include an environmental sensor for detecting characteristics of the environment around the vehicle 11. Non-limiting examples of environmental characteristics that may be detected include weather, climate, brightness, etc. In some embodiments, the environmental sensor may include various sensors such as a rain sensor, a fog sensor, a sunlight sensor, a snow sensor, and an illuminance sensor.

[0082] In some embodiments, the external recognition sensor 125 may include a microphone used to detect sounds around the vehicle 11 and the location of sound sources.

[0083] The interior sensor 126 includes various sensors for detecting information about the interior of the vehicle 11, and supplies sensor data from one or more (or in some cases, all) sensors to one or more (or in some cases, all) units of the vehicle control system 101. The types and number of the various sensors included in the interior sensor 126 are not particularly limited as long as they are of the types and number that can be realistically installed in the vehicle 11.

[0084] In some embodiments, the interior sensor 126 may include one or more sensors selected from the group consisting of a camera, radar, a seating sensor, a microphone, and a biometric sensor. In some embodiments, the camera included in the interior sensor 126 may use an imaging method capable of measuring distances. Non-limiting examples of cameras using imaging methods capable of measuring distances include a Time of Flight (ToF) camera, a stereo camera, a monocular camera, and an infrared camera. The camera included in the interior sensor 126 may also be used simply to acquire captured images, regardless of distance measurement. The biometric sensor included in the interior sensor 126 may be provided, for example, on a seat or a steering wheel, and may detect various types of biometric information of the user.

[0085] The vehicle sensor 127 includes various sensors for detecting the state of the vehicle 11, and supplies sensor data from one or more (or in some cases, all) sensors to one or more (or in some cases, all) units of the vehicle control system 101. The types and number of the various sensors included in the vehicle sensor 127 are not particularly limited as long as they are of the types and number that can be realistically installed on the vehicle 11.

[0086] In some embodiments, the vehicle sensor 127 may include a speed sensor, an acceleration sensor, an angular velocity sensor (gyro sensor), and / or an inertial measurement unit (IMU) that integrates these. In some embodiments, the vehicle sensor 127 may include a steering angle sensor that detects the steering angle of the steering wheel, a yaw rate sensor, an accelerator sensor that detects the amount of accelerator pedal operation (e.g., pedal force, pedal stroke), and / or a brake sensor that detects the amount of brake pedal operation (e.g., pedal force, pedal stroke). In some embodiments, the vehicle sensor 127 may include a rotation sensor that detects the number of rotations of the engine or motor, an air pressure sensor that detects tire air pressure, a slip ratio sensor that detects tire slip ratio, and / or a wheel speed sensor that detects the rotation speed of the wheels. In some embodiments, the vehicle sensor 127 may include a battery sensor that detects the remaining battery level and temperature, and / or an impact sensor that can detect external impacts.

[0087] The storage unit 128 includes at least one of a non-volatile storage medium and a volatile storage medium, and stores data and programs. Non-limiting examples of storage media include magnetic storage devices such as electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), random access memory (RAM), and / or hard disk drives (HDDs), semiconductor storage devices, optical storage devices, and magneto-optical storage devices. The storage unit 128 stores various programs and data used by one or more (or in some cases, all) units of the vehicle control system 101. In some embodiments, the storage unit 128 may include an event data recorder (EDR) or a data storage system for automated driving (DSSAD), and may store information about the vehicle 11 before and after an event such as an accident, as well as information acquired by the in-vehicle sensors 126.

[0088] The driving automation control unit 129 controls the driving automation function of the vehicle 11. In some embodiments, the driving automation control unit 129 may include an analysis unit 161, an action planning unit 162, and an operation control unit 163.

[0089] The analysis unit 161 performs an analysis process of the vehicle 11 and / or the surrounding situation. The analysis unit 161 includes a self-position estimation unit 171, a sensor fusion unit 172, and a recognition unit 173.

[0090] In some embodiments, the self-position estimation unit 171 may estimate the self-position of the vehicle 11 based on sensor data from the external recognition sensor 125 and a high-precision map stored in the map information storage unit 123. For example, the self-position estimation unit 171 may generate a local map based on the sensor data from the external recognition sensor 125 and estimate the self-position of the vehicle 11 by matching the local map with the high-precision map. The position of the vehicle 11 may be based on, for example, the center of the rear wheel pair axle.

[0091] In some embodiments, the local map may be a three-dimensional high-precision map, an occupancy grid map, or the like created using a technique such as SLAM (Simultaneous Localization and Mapping). The three-dimensional high-precision map may be, for example, the point cloud map described above. The occupancy grid map may be a map obtained by dividing a three-dimensional or two-dimensional space around the vehicle 11 into grids of a predetermined size and indicating the occupancy status of objects on a grid-by-grid basis. The occupancy status of an object may be indicated, for example, by the presence or absence of an object or a probability of its presence. In some embodiments, the local map may also be used, for example, in the detection process and / or recognition process of the situation outside the vehicle 11 by the recognition unit 173.

[0092] In some embodiments, the self-position estimation unit 171 may estimate the self-position of the vehicle 11 based on the position information acquired by the position information acquisition unit 124 and / or sensor data from the vehicle sensor 127 .

[0093] The sensor fusion unit 172 performs sensor fusion processing to obtain information by combining multiple different types of sensor data (for example, image data supplied from the camera 151 and sensor data supplied from the radar 152). Methods for combining different types of sensor data include, but are not limited to, compounding, integration, fusion, and association.

[0094] The recognition unit 173 executes a detection process for detecting the situation outside the vehicle 11 and / or a recognition process for recognizing the situation outside the vehicle 11 .

[0095] For example, the recognition unit 173 may perform detection processing and / or recognition processing of the situation outside the vehicle 11 based on information from the external recognition sensor 125, information from the self-position estimation unit 171, information from the sensor fusion unit 172, etc.

[0096] Specifically, for example, the recognition unit 173 may perform detection processing and / or recognition processing of objects around the vehicle 11. The object detection processing may be, for example, processing to detect the presence or absence, size, shape, position, movement, etc. of an object. The object recognition processing may be, for example, processing to recognize attributes such as the type of object, or to identify a specific object. The detection processing and the recognition processing are not necessarily clearly separated, and there may be at least a partial overlap.

[0097] In some embodiments, the recognition unit 173 may detect objects around the vehicle 11 by performing clustering to classify a point cloud based on sensor data from the radar 152 and / or the LiDAR 153, etc. into clusters of points. This makes it possible to detect the presence, size, shape, and position of objects around the vehicle 11.

[0098] In some embodiments, the recognition unit 173 may detect the movement of objects around the vehicle 11 by tracking the movement of clusters of point clouds classified by clustering. This makes it possible to detect the speed and / or traveling direction (movement vector) of the objects around the vehicle 11.

[0099] In some embodiments, the recognition unit 173 may detect and / or recognize vehicles (including bicycles), people, obstacles, structures, roads, traffic lights, traffic signs, road markings, etc. based on image data supplied from the camera 151. In some embodiments, the recognition unit 173 may recognize the type of object around the vehicle 11 by performing recognition processing such as semantic segmentation.

[0100] In some embodiments, the recognition unit 173 may perform a recognition process of traffic rules around the vehicle 11 based on the map stored in the map information storage unit 123, the estimation result of the self-position by the self-position estimation unit 171, and / or the recognition result of the recognition unit 173 of objects around the vehicle 11. Through this process, the recognition unit 173 may recognize the positions and / or states of traffic lights, the contents of traffic signs and / or road markings, the contents of traffic regulations, and / or lanes that can be traveled, etc.

[0101] In some embodiments, the recognition unit 173 may perform recognition processing of the environment around the vehicle 11. In some embodiments, the recognition unit 173 may recognize weather characteristics (temperature, humidity, brightness) and / or road surface conditions, etc.

[0102] The behavior planning unit 162 creates a behavior plan for the vehicle 11. For example, the behavior planning unit 162 may create a behavior plan by performing route planning and route tracking.

[0103] In some embodiments, path planning may include global path planning and local path planning. Global path planning may include a process of planning a rough route from a start to a goal. Local path planning, also referred to as trajectory planning, may include generating a trajectory that allows the vehicle 11 to proceed safely and smoothly along a planned route in the vicinity of the vehicle 11, taking into account the motion characteristics of the vehicle 11 and the presence of any obstacles.

[0104] In some embodiments, path following may be a planning of an operation for safely and accurately traveling along a route planned by a route planner within a planned time. The behavior planning unit 162 may, for example, calculate a target speed and / or a target angular velocity of the vehicle 11 based on the result of the path following process.

[0105] The operation control unit 163 controls the operation of the vehicle 11 in order to realize the action plan created by the action planning unit 162 .

[0106] For example, in some embodiments, the operation control unit 163 may control the steering control unit 181, the brake control unit 182, and / or the drive control unit 183 included in the vehicle control unit 132 (described later) to perform lateral vehicle motion control and / or longitudinal vehicle motion control so that the vehicle 11 travels along the trajectory calculated by the trajectory plan. For example, the operation control unit 163 may perform control (e.g., lateral vehicle motion control, longitudinal vehicle motion control) for one or more driver assistance functions and / or driving automation. Non-limiting examples of driver assistance functions include collision avoidance or impact mitigation, following distance control (e.g., control to maintain a specific distance from a vehicle traveling ahead of the vehicle 11), vehicle speed control (e.g., control to maintain a specific speed), vehicle collision warning, and lane departure warning. Non-limiting examples of driving automation include driving without operation by a driver or a remote driver.

[0107] In some embodiments, the DMS 130 may perform a driver authentication process and / or a driver state recognition process based on sensor data from the in-vehicle sensors 126 and / or input data input to the HMI 131 (described later), etc. Non-limiting examples of the driver state that may be recognized include physical condition, alertness, concentration, fatigue, gaze direction, drunkenness, driving operation, posture, etc.

[0108] In some embodiments, the DMS 130 may perform authentication processing of a user other than the driver (e.g., a passenger) and / or recognition processing of the state of the user. In some embodiments, the DMS 130 may perform recognition processing of the interior situation of the vehicle 11 based on sensor data from the interior sensors 126. Non-limiting examples of characteristics of the interior situation of the vehicle 11 that may be recognized include temperature, humidity, brightness, odor, etc.

[0109] The HMI 131 receives various data, instructions, etc. as input, and presents the various data to the user.

[0110] The input of data to the HMI 131 will be briefly described. The HMI 131 includes an input device through which a person inputs data, instructions, etc. The HMI 131 generates an input signal based on the data, instructions, etc. input via the input device and supplies the signal to one or more (or in some cases, all) units of the vehicle control system 101. In some embodiments, the HMI 131 may include a touch panel, buttons, switches, and / or levers as input devices. Without being limited thereto, the HMI 131 may also include an input device that allows information to be input by means other than manual operation, such as voice or gestures. In some embodiments, the HMI 131 may include an input device such as a remote control device using infrared and / or radio waves, or an externally connected device that can operate the vehicle control system 101. Non-limiting examples of externally connected devices include a mobile device (e.g., a smartphone) and a wearable device (e.g., a smart watch).

[0111] The presentation of data by the HMI 131 will be briefly described. The HMI 131 generates visual information, auditory information, and / or tactile information for the user and / or a person outside the vehicle 11. The HMI 131 may also perform output control, controlling the output, output content, output timing, and / or output method of each piece of generated information. Non-limiting examples of visual information that can be generated and output by the HMI 131 include information displayed by images or lights, such as an operation screen, a status display of the vehicle 11, a warning display, and a monitor image showing the situation around the vehicle 11. Non-limiting examples of auditory information that can be generated and output by the HMI 131 include voice guidance, warning sounds, warning messages, etc. Non-limiting examples of tactile information that can be generated and output by the HMI 131 include information imparted to the user's sense of touch by force, vibration, movement, etc.

[0112] In some embodiments, the HMI 131 may include, as an output device capable of outputting visual information, a display device that presents visual information by displaying an image itself or a projector device that presents visual information by projecting an image. In some embodiments, the display device may be, in addition to or instead of a typical display device, a device that displays visual information within the user's field of view, such as a head-up display, a see-through display, or a wearable device with an augmented reality (AR) function. In some embodiments, the HMI 131 may include, as an output device capable of outputting visual information, a display device included in a navigation device, an instrument panel, a camera monitoring system (CMS), an electronic mirror, a lamp, or the like provided in the vehicle 11.

[0113] In some embodiments, the HMI 131 may include an audio speaker, headphones, or earphones as output devices capable of outputting auditory information.

[0114] In some embodiments, the HMI 131 may include a haptic element using haptic technology as an output device capable of outputting tactile information. The haptic element may be provided on a part of the vehicle 11 that the user comes into contact with, such as a steering wheel or a seat.

[0115] The vehicle control unit 132 controls one or more (or in some cases, all) units of the vehicle 11. The vehicle control unit 132 includes a steering control unit 181, a brake control unit 182, a drive control unit 183, a body system control unit 184, a light control unit 185, and a horn control unit 186.

[0116] The steering control unit 181 detects and / or controls the state of the steering system of the vehicle 11. The steering system includes, for example, a steering mechanism including a steering wheel, an electric power steering, etc. The steering control unit 181 includes, for example, a steering ECU that controls the steering system, an actuator that drives the steering system, etc.

[0117] The brake control unit 182 detects and / or controls the state of the brake system of the vehicle 11. The brake system includes, for example, a brake mechanism including a brake pedal, an antilock brake system (ABS), a regenerative brake mechanism, etc. The brake control unit 182 includes, for example, a brake ECU that controls the brake system, an actuator that drives the brake system, etc.

[0118] The drive control unit 183 detects and / or controls the state of the drive system of the vehicle 11. The drive system includes, for example, an accelerator pedal, a drive force generating device for generating drive force such as an internal combustion engine or a drive motor, and a drive force transmission mechanism for transmitting the drive force to the wheels. The drive control unit 183 includes, for example, a drive ECU for controlling the drive system, and an actuator for driving the drive system.

[0119] The body system control unit 184 detects and / or controls the state of the body system of the vehicle 11. The body system includes, for example, a keyless entry system, a smart key system, a power window device, a power seat, an air conditioning system, an airbag, a seat belt, a shift lever, etc. The body system control unit 184 includes, for example, a body system ECU that controls the body system, an actuator that drives the body system, etc.

[0120] The light control unit 185 detects and / or controls the states of various lights of the vehicle 11. Non-limiting examples of lights that can be controlled by the light control unit 185 include headlights, backlights, fog lights, turn signals, brake lights, projector lights, and bumper indicators. The light control unit 185 includes a light ECU that controls the lights, an actuator that drives the lights, and the like.

[0121] The horn control unit 186 detects and / or controls the state of the car horn of the vehicle 11. The horn control unit 186 includes, for example, a horn ECU that controls the car horn, an actuator that drives the car horn, and the like.

[0122] The BMS 133 is a system that monitors and controls the charging and discharging of the battery 12. The BMS 133 also detects the state of charge (e.g., SOC) and state of health (e.g., SOH) of the battery 12.

[0123] <Configuration Example of Battery Operation Server 14> FIG. 5 shows a configuration example of the functions of the battery operation server 14 of the information processing system 1 of FIG.

[0124] The battery operation server 14 includes a communication unit 201 , an information processing unit 202 , and a storage unit 203 .

[0125] The communication unit 201 exchanges and shares various data with other devices via the data exchange / sharing system 21 .

[0126] The information processing unit 202 controls the battery operation server 14 and executes various information processes. The information processing unit 202 includes a calculation unit 211, an information generation unit 212, and a right information management unit 213.

[0127] The calculation unit 211 calculates the usage fee (battery usage fee) for the battery 12 of the vehicle 11 based on data received from other devices, etc. The calculation unit 211 also calculates a fee to be charged to the user based on the battery usage fee and data received from other devices, etc.

[0128] The information generation unit 212 generates various types of information to be notified to the outside (e.g., a user, etc.). For example, the information generation unit 212 generates fee information including information on battery usage fees and information on billing fees. The information generation unit 212 notifies the outside of various types of information by exchanging or sharing various types of information such as fee information via the communication unit 201 and the data exchange / sharing system 21.

[0129] The right information management unit 213 manages information relating to rights regarding the battery 12 of the vehicle 11 (hereinafter referred to as battery right information). For example, the right information management unit 213 generates battery right information, stores it in the storage unit 203, and updates the battery right information as necessary.

[0130] The battery right information includes, for example, contract information including the content of the rights regarding the battery 12, as well as information regarding the vehicle 11, battery 12, and debtor (e.g., user) that are the subject of the contract.

[0131] <Billing Fee Notification Process> Next, the billing fee notification process executed by the battery operation server 14 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

[0132] In step S1, the information processing unit 202 acquires vehicle body data. For example, the information processing unit 202 receives vehicle body data of the vehicle 11 for which a battery usage fee or the like is to be charged via the data exchange / sharing system 21 and the communication unit 201.

[0133] In step S2, the calculation unit 211 determines whether or not data related to the charge amount or discharge amount of the battery 12 has been acquired. For example, if the vehicle body data acquired in the processing of step S1 does not include data related to the charge amount or discharge amount of the battery 12, the calculation unit 211 determines that data related to the charge amount or discharge amount of the battery 12 has not been acquired, and the processing returns to step S1.

[0134] Thereafter, the processes of steps S1 and S2 are repeatedly executed until it is determined in step S2 that data relating to the charge amount or discharge amount of the battery 12 has been acquired.

[0135] On the other hand, in step S2, if the vehicle body data acquired in the processing of step S1 includes data regarding the charge or discharge amount of the battery 12, the calculation unit 211 determines that data regarding the charge or discharge amount of the battery 12 has been acquired, and the processing proceeds to step S3.

[0136] In step S3, the calculation unit 211 calculates the battery usage fee.

[0137] For example, when calculating the battery usage fee based on the charge amount of the battery 12, the calculation unit 211 calculates the charge amount of the battery 12 since the previous calculation of the battery usage fee. For example, if the battery 12 has been charged multiple times since the previous calculation of the battery usage fee, the calculation unit 211 sums up the charge amounts of the multiple times. For example, the calculation unit 211 calculates the battery usage fee using a predetermined calculation formula based on the calculated charge amount.

[0138] For example, when calculating the battery usage fee based on the discharge amount of the battery 12, the calculation unit 211 calculates the discharge amount of the battery 12 since the previous calculation of the battery usage fee. For example, if the battery 12 has been charged one or more times since the previous calculation of the battery usage fee, the calculation unit 211 calculates the discharge amount taking into account the increase in capacity of the battery 12 due to charging. For example, the calculation unit 211 calculates the battery usage fee using a predetermined calculation formula based on the calculated discharge amount.

[0139] The calculation unit 211 may calculate the battery usage fee by taking into consideration conditions other than the charge or discharge amount of the battery 12, for example.

[0140] For example, when calculating the battery usage fee based on the charge amount of the battery 12, the calculation unit 211 may further calculate the battery usage fee based on the charging method of the battery 12. For example, when the battery 12 is rapidly charged, the battery 12 is more likely to deteriorate quickly and the monetary value of the battery 12 after use is more likely to decrease compared to when the battery 12 is normally charged. Therefore, for example, when the battery 12 is rapidly charged, the calculation unit 211 sets a higher battery usage fee compared to when the battery 12 is normally charged.

[0141] There are no particular limitations on the method by which the battery operation server 14 obtains information about the charging method of the battery 12. For example, the vehicle body data supplied to the battery operation server 14 from the data exchange / sharing system 21 may include information about the charging method of the battery 12. For example, the battery operation server 14 may receive information about the charging method of the battery 12 from the vehicle 11, the information processing terminal 13, or the charging station server 15 via the data exchange / sharing system 21.

[0142] For example, when calculating the battery usage fee based on the charge amount of the battery 12, the calculation unit 211 may further calculate the battery usage fee based on the charging fee of the battery 12. For example, the calculation unit 211 may increase the battery usage fee as the charging fee of the battery 12 increases, and decrease the battery usage fee as the charging fee of the battery 12 decreases.

[0143] There are no particular limitations on the method by which the battery operation server 14 obtains information related to the charging fee for the battery 12. For example, the vehicle body data supplied to the battery operation server 14 from the data exchange / sharing system 21 may include information related to the charging fee for the battery 12. For example, the battery operation server 14 may receive information related to the charging fee for the battery 12 from the vehicle 11, the information processing terminal 13, or the charging station server 15 via the data exchange / sharing system 21.

[0144] For example, the calculation unit 211 may calculate the battery usage fee based on the electricity rate. For example, the calculation unit 211 may increase the battery usage fee as the electricity rate increases, and decrease the battery usage fee as the electricity rate decreases.

[0145] The method by which the battery operation server 14 obtains information related to the electricity rate is not particularly limited. For example, information related to the electricity rate may be included in the vehicle body data supplied to the battery operation server 14 from the data exchange / sharing system 21. For example, the battery operation server 14 may receive information related to the electricity rate from the electric power company server 16 via the data exchange / sharing system 21.

[0146] For example, the calculation unit 211 may calculate the battery usage fee based on the monetary value of the battery 12. For example, the calculation unit 211 calculates the monetary value of the battery 12 based on information on the market price of the battery 12 and deterioration information (e.g., SOH) of the battery 12. For example, the calculation unit 211 may lower the battery usage fee as the monetary value of the battery 12 increases, and may raise the battery usage fee as the monetary value of the battery 12 decreases. This allows the battery operation company to stabilize profits from the battery business even if the market price of the battery 12 fluctuates due to, for example, technological innovation.

[0147] There is no particular limitation on the method by which the battery operation server 14 acquires information about the market price of the battery 12. For example, a battery operation company may input information about the market price of the battery 12 to the battery operation server 14. For example, the battery operation server 14 may receive information about the market price of the battery 12 from the data exchange / sharing system 21.

[0148] Furthermore, there are no particular limitations on the method by which the battery operation server 14 acquires the deterioration information of the battery 12. For example, the deterioration information of the battery 12 may be included in the vehicle body data supplied to the battery operation server 14 from the data exchange / sharing system 21. For example, the battery operation server 14 may receive the deterioration information of the battery 12 from the vehicle 11 or the information processing terminal 13 via the data exchange / sharing system 21.

[0149] For example, the calculation unit 211 may calculate the battery usage fee based on the use of the power of the battery 12. For example, the calculation unit 211 may set the battery usage fee lower when the power of the battery 12 is used for ecological purposes (e.g., V2H (Vehicle to Home), VPP, etc.) compared to when the power is used for moving the vehicle 11. This promotes the use of the power of the battery 12 for ecological purposes.

[0150] There is no particular limitation on the method by which the battery operation server 14 obtains information about the use of the battery 12. For example, the vehicle body data supplied to the battery operation server 14 from the data exchange / sharing system 21 may include information about the use of the battery 12. For example, the battery operation server 14 may receive information about the use of the battery 12 from the vehicle 11 or the information processing terminal 13 via the data exchange / sharing system 21.

[0151] For example, the calculation unit 211 may calculate the battery usage fee by combining two or more of the charging method of the battery 12, the charging fee for the battery 12, the electricity fee, the monetary value of the battery 12, and the use of the electricity of the battery 12 with the charge or discharge amount of the battery 12.

[0152] In step S4, the calculation unit 211 calculates the charge based on the battery usage fee.

[0153] For example, when the calculation unit 211 bills the user for battery usage based on the amount of charge each time the battery 12 is charged, the calculation unit 211 uses the battery usage fee as the billing fee.

[0154] For example, when the calculation unit 211 bills for the battery usage fee every predetermined period (for example, every month), the calculation unit 211 calculates the fee to be billed by totaling the battery usage fees within that period.

[0155] For example, the calculation unit 211 may calculate the charge by applying various discounts to the battery usage fee.

[0156] For example, when a user uses a battery-powered APP, the calculation unit 211 may discount the battery usage fee based on service points or the like that are applied to the user of the battery-powered APP.

[0157] For example, when the vehicle 11 travels using a battery-operated APP, the calculation unit 211 may discount the battery usage fee based on the amount of charge or discharge corresponding to the travel distance.

[0158] There are no particular limitations on the method by which the battery operation server 14 acquires information about the usage status of the battery operation APP of the user or the vehicle 11. For example, the battery operation server 14 may receive information about the usage status of the battery operation APP from the vehicle 11 or the information processing terminal 13 via the data exchange / sharing system 21.

[0159] For example, the calculation unit 211 may calculate the billing fee by adding the battery usage fee to at least one of the fee the user plans to pay for the battery 12 and the income the user plans to earn from the battery 12.

[0160] For example, the calculation unit 211 may calculate the billed fee by adding the battery usage fee and the charging fee for the battery 12. This reduces the user's effort in paying various fees.

[0161] For example, the calculation unit 211 may calculate the billing fee by adding the battery usage fee and the power purchase fee obtained by selling the power of the battery 12 to a power company through a VPP or the like.

[0162] The method by which the battery operation server 14 obtains information about the power purchase price is not particularly limited. For example, information about the power purchase price may be included in the vehicle body data supplied to the battery operation server 14 from the data exchange / sharing system 21. For example, the battery operation server 14 may receive information about the power purchase price from the vehicle 11, the information processing terminal 13, or the power company server 16 via the data exchange / sharing system 21.

[0163] In step S5, the information generation unit 212 notifies the user of the fee to be charged. For example, the information generation unit 212 generates fee information including information on the battery usage fee and information on the fee to be charged. The information generation unit 212 transmits the fee information to the vehicle 11 or the information processing terminal 13 of the user to be charged (e.g., the owner of the vehicle 11) via the communication unit 201 and the data exchange / sharing system 21.

[0164] Thereafter, the process returns to step S1, and the processes from step S1 onwards are executed.

[0165] In this way, a new system for covering the cost of EV batteries is provided. This reduces the financial burden required for users to purchase EVs. Furthermore, battery operators can develop new business models using EV batteries and earn revenue. Furthermore, the system promotes the effective use of used EV batteries.

[0166] <<3. Modifications>> Modifications of the above-described embodiments of the present technology will now be described.

[0167] For example, when vehicle 11 is shared by multiple users through rental, leasing, car sharing, or the like, the battery usage fee is charged to the user who used vehicle 11. That is, for example, the fee information is transmitted to an information processing terminal owned by the user who is the user of vehicle 11.

[0168] For example, when the vehicle 11 is transferred to another user by sale or the like, although this depends on the contents of the contract, the debtor to the rights related to the battery 12 owned by the battery operation company is usually the user to whom the vehicle 11 has been transferred. For example, the user to whom the vehicle 11 has been transferred is obligated to pay the battery usage fee, etc. to the battery operation company. In this case, for example, the rights information management unit 213 of the battery operation server 14 updates the rights information related to the battery 12 of the transferred vehicle 11.

[0169] For example, when the information generation unit 212 of the battery operation server 14 detects, based on the deterioration information of the battery 12, that the deterioration of the battery 12 exceeds an expected range, the information generation unit 212 may generate information notifying the user and transmit the information to the vehicle 11 or the information processing terminal 13 of the user via the communication unit 201 and the data exchange / sharing system 21. This prompts the user to improve the way they use the battery 12 (vehicle 11). On the other hand, if the deterioration state of the battery 12 does not improve, for example, the battery operation company may terminate the contract with the user and collect a penalty fee or the like.

[0170] This technology and a business model that applies this technology can be applied to any mobile object that is equipped with a battery that supplies power for transportation and moves by battery power, in addition to EVs, such as electric motorcycles, electric scooters, electric bicycles, and other electric two-wheeled vehicles, electric airplanes, and electric ships.

[0171] <<4. Others>> <Example of Computer Configuration> The above-described series of processes can be executed by hardware or software. When the series of processes is executed by software, the programs that make up the software are installed on a computer. Here, the term "computer" includes computers built into dedicated hardware, and general-purpose personal computers, for example, that can execute various functions by installing various programs.

[0172] FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of a computer that executes the above-described series of processes by a program.

[0173] In the computer 1000 , a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 1001 , a ROM (Read Only Memory) 1002 , and a RAM (Random Access Memory) 1003 are interconnected by a bus 1004 .

[0174] An input / output interface 1005 is further connected to the bus 1004. An input unit 1006, an output unit 1007, a storage unit 1008, a communication unit 1009, and a drive 1010 are connected to the input / output interface 1005.

[0175] The input unit 1006 includes input switches, buttons, a microphone, an image sensor, etc. The output unit 1007 includes a display, a speaker, etc. The storage unit 1008 includes a hard disk, a non-volatile memory, etc. The communication unit 1009 includes a network interface, etc. The drive 1010 drives removable media 1011 such as a magnetic disk, an optical disk, a magneto-optical disk, or a semiconductor memory.

[0176] In the computer 1000 configured as described above, the CPU 1001 performs the above-described series of processes by, for example, loading a program recorded in the memory unit 1008 into the RAM 1003 via the input / output interface 1005 and the bus 1004 and executing it.

[0177] The program executed by the computer 1000 (CPU 1001) can be provided by being recorded on a removable medium 1011 such as a package medium, for example. The program can also be provided via a wired or wireless transmission medium such as a local area network, the Internet, or digital satellite broadcasting.

[0178] In the computer 1000, the program can be installed in the storage unit 1008 via the input / output interface 1005 by inserting the removable medium 1011 into the drive 1010. The program can also be received by the communication unit 1009 via a wired or wireless transmission medium and installed in the storage unit 1008. Alternatively, the program can be installed in the ROM 1002 or the storage unit 1008 in advance.

[0179] The program executed by the computer may be a program that processes in chronological order according to the order described in this specification, or may be a program that processes in parallel or at the required timing, such as when called.

[0180] In this specification, a system refers to a collection of multiple components (devices, modules (components), etc.), regardless of whether all of the components are housed in the same housing. Therefore, multiple devices housed in separate housings and connected via a network, and a single device housed in a single housing with multiple modules, are both systems.

[0181] Furthermore, the embodiments of the present technology are not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications are possible within the scope of the gist of the present technology.

[0182] For example, the present technology can be configured as a cloud computing system in which a single function is shared and processed collaboratively by a plurality of devices via a network.

[0183] Furthermore, each step described in the above flowchart can be executed by one device, or can be shared and executed by a plurality of devices.

[0184] Furthermore, when one step includes multiple processes, the multiple processes included in that one step can be executed by one device or can be shared and executed by multiple devices.

[0185] <Examples of Combinations of Configurations> The present technology can also have the following configurations.

[0186] (1) An information processing device comprising: a calculation unit that calculates a battery usage fee, which is a fee for using a battery mounted on a mobile body and supplies power for moving the mobile body, based on the amount of charge or discharge of the battery; and an information generation unit that generates fee information including information on the battery usage fee. (2) The calculation unit calculates the battery usage fee further based on at least one of a charging method of the battery, an electricity fee, a charging fee for the battery, a use of the power of the battery, and a monetary value of the battery. (3) The information processing device described in (2) above, in which the calculation unit increases the battery usage fee when the battery is rapidly charged compared to when the battery is normally charged. (4) The information processing device described in (2) or (3) above, in which the calculation unit reduces the battery usage fee when the power of the battery is used for ecological purposes compared to when the power of the battery is used for moving the mobile body. (5) The information processing device according to any one of (2) to (4), wherein the calculation unit calculates a monetary value of the battery based on information on the market price of the battery and information on deterioration of the battery. (6) The information processing device according to any one of (1) to (5), wherein the calculation unit calculates a billing fee based on at least one of a battery usage fee, a charging fee for the battery, and income obtained by selling power from the battery, and the fee information includes information on the billing fee. (7) The information processing device according to any one of (1) to (6), wherein the fee information includes information on the battery usage fee for each predetermined period. (8) The information processing device according to any one of (1) to (7), further comprising a communication unit that transmits the fee information. (9) The information processing device according to (8), wherein the communication unit transmits the fee information to an information processing terminal of the mobile object or an owner of the mobile object. (10) The information processing device according to (8), wherein the communication unit transmits the fee information to an information processing terminal of a user of the mobile object.(11) The information processing device according to any of (1) to (10), further comprising a rights information management unit that generates and updates rights information related to rights regarding the battery. (12) The information processing device according to any of (1) to (11), wherein, when deterioration of the battery exceeds an expected range, the information generation unit generates information notifying that deterioration of the battery has exceeded an expected range. (13) The information processing device according to any of (1) to (12), wherein the mobile object is an electric vehicle. (14) An information processing method, in which an information processing device calculates a battery usage fee that is a usage fee for the battery based on an amount of charge or discharge of the battery that is mounted on the mobile object and supplies power for movement of the mobile object, and generates fee information including information about the battery usage fee. (15) A program for causing a computer to execute a process of calculating a battery usage fee that is a usage fee for the battery based on an amount of charge or discharge of the battery that is mounted on the mobile object and supplies power for movement of the mobile object, and generating fee information including information about the battery usage fee.

[0187] The effects described in this specification are merely examples and are not limiting, and other effects may also be present.

[0188] REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 1 Information processing system, 11 Vehicle, 12 Battery, 13 Information processing terminal, 14 Battery operation server, 15 Charging station server, 16 Power company server, 17 Data exchange and sharing system, 18 Service providing server, 101 Vehicle control system, 132 BMS, 201 Communication unit, 202 Information processing unit, 203 Storage unit, 211 Calculation unit, 212 Information generation unit, 213 Rights information management unit

Claims

1. An information processing device comprising: a calculation unit that is mounted on a moving body and calculates a battery usage fee, which is a usage fee for the battery, based on the charge or discharge amount of the battery that supplies power for the movement of the moving body; and an information generation unit that generates fee information including information regarding the battery usage fee.

2. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein the calculation unit calculates the battery usage fee further based on at least one of a charging method for the battery, an electricity fee, a charging fee for the battery, a use of the battery's power, and a monetary value of the battery.

3. The information processing device according to claim 2, wherein the calculation unit sets the battery usage fee higher when the battery is rapidly charged than when the battery is normally charged.

4. The information processing device according to claim 2, wherein the calculation unit reduces the battery usage fee when the battery power is used for ecological purposes compared to when the battery power is used to move the mobile object.

5. The information processing device according to claim 2, wherein the calculation unit calculates the monetary value of the battery based on information on the market price of the battery and deterioration information of the battery.

6. The information processing device of claim 1, wherein the calculation unit calculates a billing fee based on at least one of the battery usage fee, the charging fee for the battery, and the income obtained by selling the battery's electricity, and the fee information includes information regarding the billing fee.

7. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein the fee information includes information regarding the battery usage fee for each predetermined period.

8. The information processing device according to claim 1, further comprising a communication unit for transmitting the fee information.

9. The information processing device according to claim 8, wherein the communication unit transmits the fee information to an information processing terminal of the mobile object or an owner of the mobile object.

10. The information processing device according to claim 8, wherein the communication unit transmits the fee information to an information processing terminal of a user of the mobile object.

11. The information processing device according to claim 1, further comprising a rights information management unit that generates and updates rights information relating to rights related to the battery.

12. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein, when the deterioration of the battery exceeds an expected range, the information generating unit generates information notifying that the deterioration of the battery exceeds an expected range.

13. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein the moving body is an electric vehicle.

14. An information processing method in which an information processing device calculates a battery usage fee, which is a usage fee for a battery mounted on a mobile body and supplies power for the movement of the mobile body, based on the charge or discharge amount of the battery, and generates fee information including information on the battery usage fee.

15. A program for causing a computer to execute a process of calculating a battery usage fee, which is a usage fee for a battery mounted on a mobile body and supplying power for the movement of the mobile body, based on the charge or discharge amount of the battery, and generating fee information including information on the battery usage fee.

Images