Information processing device and information processing method

Abstract

The present invention relates to an information processing device and an information processing method that make it possible to quickly and easily board a means of transportation that does not have a fixed boarding location. The information processing device is provided with a boarding recommendation information generating unit that generates boarding recommendation information including boarding suitability information for a means of transportation that does not have a fixed boarding location, and supply forecast information relating to the means of transportation. The present technology is applicable to taxi dispatching services, for example.

Description

Information processing device and information processing method

[0001] The present technology relates to an information processing device and an information processing method, and more particularly to an information processing device and an information processing method that make it easier to use transportation such as taxis that do not have a fixed boarding location.

[0002] Conventionally, a technology has been proposed that extracts and distributes the frequency of empty taxis in an area specified by a user, excluding empty taxis on roads or areas where it is inappropriate to take a taxi (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

[0003] JP 2009-54072 A

[0004] However, the technology described in Patent Document 1 can tell the frequency of available taxis in an area specified by a user, but it does not tell the user whether or not they can easily get into a taxi.

[0005] The present technology has been developed in light of such circumstances, and enables users to quickly and easily board transportation such as taxis that do not have fixed boarding locations.

[0006] The information processing device of the first aspect of the present technology includes a boarding recommendation information generation unit that generates boarding suitability information for transportation means that do not have a fixed boarding location, and boarding recommendation information that includes supply forecast information for the transportation means.

[0007] In an information processing method according to a first aspect of the present technology, an information processing device generates riding suitability information for a transportation facility that does not have a fixed boarding location, and riding recommendation information including supply forecast information for the transportation facility.

[0008] The information processing device of the second aspect of the present technology includes an output control unit that controls the display on a map of riding suitability information for transportation means that do not have a fixed boarding location, and riding recommendation information including supply forecast information for the transportation means.

[0009] An information processing method according to a second aspect of the present technology includes an information processing device that controls the display on a map of riding suitability information for transportation means that do not have a fixed boarding location, and riding recommendation information including supply forecast information for the transportation means.

[0010] In a first aspect of the present technology, riding suitability information for a transportation facility that does not have a fixed boarding location and riding recommendation information including supply forecast information for the transportation facility are generated.

[0011] In a second aspect of the present technology, the display on a map of boarding suitability information for transportation means that do not have a fixed boarding location and boarding recommendation information including supply forecast information for the transportation means is controlled.

[0012] 1 is a block diagram showing an embodiment of an information processing system to which the present technology is applied. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example functional configuration of a cloud server. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an example functional configuration of an information processing device. FIG. 4 is a flowchart for explaining probe data generation processing. FIG. 5 is a flowchart for explaining boarding recommendation information generation processing. FIG. 6 is a flowchart for explaining probe data matching processing. FIG. 7 is a flowchart for explaining boarding recommendation information provision processing. FIG. 8 is a flowchart for explaining boarding recommendation information presentation processing. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example display of supply forecast information. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example display of boarding suitability information. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example display of boarding recommendation area information. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example VTS display screen. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example VTS display screen. FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example VTS display screen. FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of a VTS display screen. FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of displaying boarding recommendation information using VR or AR. FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example screen for guiding the nearest VTS. FIG. 18 is a diagram showing an example method for displaying the position of a VTS. FIG. 19 is a diagram showing an example of presenting a VTS suitable for a destination. FIG. 19 is a flowchart for explaining empty vehicle approach notification processing. FIG. 19 is a diagram showing an example VTS display screen. FIG. 19 is a diagram showing an example method for notifying of the approach of an empty vehicle. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a method for notifying a user of the approach of an empty vehicle. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a method for notifying a user of the approach of an empty vehicle. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of proposing the dispatch of a taxi. FIG. 4 is a flowchart for explaining advertisement registration processing. FIG. 5 is a flowchart for explaining ride recommendation information presentation processing. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of advertisement display. FIG. 7 is a flowchart for explaining ride history recording processing. FIG. 8 is a flowchart for explaining ride history presentation processing. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of ride history display. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a taxi receipt. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a display for a rear seat of a taxi. FIG. 12 is a flowchart for explaining VTS update processing. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a screen for inputting an evaluation of a VTS. FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of a screen for inputting an evaluation of a VTS. FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of a screen for inputting a request for VTS installation. FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of a screen for inputting a request for VTS installation.It is a diagram showing an example of a screen for inputting a request for installation of a VTS. It is a diagram showing an example of a method for providing ride recommendation information to other services. It is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a computer.

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

[0014] <<1. Embodiment>> An embodiment of the present technology will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 43 .

[0015] <Configuration Example of Information Processing System 1> FIG. 1 shows an embodiment of an information processing system 1 to which the present technology is applied.

[0016] The information processing system 1 includes taxis 11-1 to 11-m, a cloud server 12, and information processing devices 13-1 to 13-n. Each taxi 11-i (i=1 to m) includes a drive recorder 31-i, an information processing terminal 32-i, and a taxi meter 33-i.

[0017] The cloud server 12, information processing devices 13-1 to 13-n, drive recorders 31-1 to 31-m, information processing terminals 32-1 to 32-m, and taxi meters 33-1 to 33-m are connected to each other via a network 21.

[0018] Hereinafter, when there is no need to distinguish between the taxis 11-1 to 11-m, they will simply be referred to as taxis 11. Hereinafter, when there is no need to distinguish between the information processing devices 13-1 to 13-n, they will simply be referred to as information processing devices 13. Hereinafter, when there is no need to distinguish between the drive recorders 31-1 to 31-m, they will simply be referred to as drive recorders 31. Hereinafter, when there is no need to distinguish between the information processing terminals 32-1 to 32-m, they will simply be referred to as information processing terminals 32. Hereinafter, when there is no need to distinguish between the taxi meters 33-1 to 33-m, they will simply be referred to as taxi meters 33.

[0019] The drive recorder 31 captures images of the area around the taxi 11, i.e., the area around the road on which the taxi 11 is traveling. The drive recorder 31 transmits the video data (moving image data) obtained by capturing the images to the cloud server 12 via the network 21.

[0020] In this specification, image data includes moving image data (video data) and still image data.

[0021] The information processing terminal 32 is configured by an information processing terminal such as a tablet terminal or a smartphone. The information processing terminal 32 detects the movement of the taxi 11 and generates movement data indicating the detection results. The movement data includes, for example, the date and time (e.g., year, month, day, hour, minute, second), as well as the position (e.g., latitude and longitude), orientation, and speed of the taxi 11. The information processing terminal 32 transmits the movement data to the cloud server 12 via the network 21.

[0022] The taxi meter 33 is configured, for example, by a hardware or software taxi meter. The taxi meter 33 generates status information indicating the status of the taxi 11. The status of the taxi 11 is classified, for example, into empty, occupied, paid, chartered, reserved, picked up, and out of service. The taxi meter 33 transmits the status information to the cloud server 12 via the network 21.

[0023] The cloud server 12 is a server that provides various services, such as a vehicle dispatch service, to the taxi 11 and (a user of) the information processing device 13. For example, as will be described later, the cloud server 12 can present to the user an appropriate place to wait for the taxi 11.

[0024] The cloud server 12 may be configured from multiple servers.

[0025] The information processing device 13 is composed of various information processing devices such as a PC (personal computer), a smartphone, a mobile phone, a tablet terminal, an HMD (head mounted display), a display, a music player, and digital signage.

[0026] The information processing device 13 is used by, for example, a user who uses a service provided by the cloud server 12. Such users include, for example, a user (passenger) who uses the taxi 11, a driver of the taxi 11, an advertising manager, an advertiser, and the like.

[0027] In the following, unless otherwise specified, the term "user" refers to a user who uses a taxi 11.

[0028] In addition, the reference numeral for taxi 11 may be omitted below.

[0029] <Configuration Example of Cloud Server 12> FIG. 2 shows a configuration example of the cloud server 12. As shown in FIG.

[0030] The cloud server 12 includes a communication unit 101, a control unit 102, a probe data storage unit 103, a map information storage unit 104, a ride recommendation information DB (database) 105, an advertisement solicitation DB 106, an advertisement submission DB 107, a user DB 108, and a ride history DB 109. The control unit 102 includes a probe data generation unit 121, a ride recommendation information generation unit 122, an advertisement management unit 123, a vehicle dispatch management unit 124, a ride history management unit 125, and a presentation control unit 126.

[0031] The communication unit 101 communicates with external devices (for example, the information processing device 13, the drive recorder 31, the information processing terminal 32, and the taxi meter 33) via the network 21. The communication method of the communication unit 101 is not particularly limited.

[0032] The probe data generation unit 121 generates probe data based on the video data from the drive recorder 31 of each taxi 11 , the dynamic data from the information processing terminal 32 , and the status information from the taxi meter 33 .

[0033] Probe data includes, for example, non-video data and video data.

[0034] The non-video data includes, for example, a radio number, a date and time, a location, a speed, a direction, a status, a video ID, and a timestamp of the video data.

[0035] The radio number is a number for identifying the radio device installed in the taxi 11. For example, the radio number is used as identification information for identifying the taxi 11.

[0036] The date and time indicates the date and time (for example, year, month, day, hour, minute, second) when the probe data was generated.

[0037] The location indicates the location (e.g., latitude and longitude) of the taxi 11 .

[0038] The speed indicates, for example, the speed of the taxi 11 per hour.

[0039] The direction indicates the direction of the taxi 11 (for example, the azimuth angle, the direction of travel, etc.).

[0040] The status indicates the status of the taxi 11.

[0041] The video ID is an ID for identification assigned to video data corresponding to non-video data constituting the probe data. For example, the video ID is the ID of video data captured by the drive recorder 31 of the same taxi 11 when the non-video data was acquired.

[0042] The timestamp of the video data indicates the timestamp of a scene in the video data corresponding to the non-video data constituting the probe data. For example, the timestamp of the video data indicates the timestamp of a scene in the video data captured by the drive recorder 31 of the same taxi 11 when the non-video data was acquired.

[0043] The video data corresponding to the non-video data is identified by the video ID and timestamp of the non-video data. A plurality of non-video data are associated with one piece of video data.

[0044] It should be noted that a plurality of pieces of video data may be associated with one piece of non-video data.

[0045] The video data may also include three-dimensional information obtained by LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging), for example.

[0046] The probe data generating unit 121 stores the generated probe data in the probe data storage unit 103 .

[0047] The ride recommendation information generation unit 122 generates ride recommendation information indicating a suitable place to wait for a taxi 11 based on the probe data stored in the probe data storage unit 103. A suitable place to wait for a taxi 11 is, in other words, a suitable place to pick up an empty taxi 11, that is, a suitable place to find and board an empty taxi 11. Specifically, a suitable place to wait for a taxi 11 is, for example, a place where the waiting time for the taxi 11 is short and where it is easy to get into the taxi 11 from outside. The ride recommendation information includes ride suitability information, supply forecast information, recommended ride area information, and VTS (Virtual Taxi Spot) information.

[0048] The riding suitability information is information indicating the ease of boarding the taxi 11 at each location. The ease of boarding the taxi 11 indicates the physical ease with which the user can board the taxi 11, that is, the ease with which the user can get into the taxi 11 from outside. Details of the riding suitability information will be described later.

[0049] The supply forecast information indicates the predicted supply of vacant taxis at each location. Details of the supply forecast information will be described later.

[0050] In the following description, an empty taxi, that is, a taxi that is empty and available to pick up new passengers, will be simply referred to as an empty taxi.

[0051] The recommended boarding area information is information that combines supply forecast information and boarding suitability information, and indicates an area that is suitable for waiting for a taxi 11. Details of the recommended boarding area information will be described later.

[0052] The VTS information is information relating to a VTS, which is a virtual taxi stand. Details of the VTS information will be described later.

[0053] The ride recommendation information generation unit 122 stores the generated ride recommendation information in the ride recommendation information DB 105 .

[0054] The advertisement management unit 123 manages information related to advertisements to be displayed on the VTS.

[0055] For example, the advertisement management unit 123 generates advertisement solicitation information based on information from the advertisement operator's information processing device 13. The advertisement solicitation information includes, for example, a VTS ID, a position, an advertisement space, and an advertisement fee.

[0056] The VTS ID is an ID for identifying a VTS for which advertisements are being solicited.

[0057] The location indicates the location (e.g., latitude, longitude) of the target VTS.

[0058] The advertisement slot indicates a slot in which an advertisement can be placed for a target VTS. The advertisement slot is divided based on, for example, the day of the week and the time period.

[0059] The advertising fee indicates the amount required to place an advertisement in each advertising space.

[0060] The advertisement management unit 123 stores the generated advertisement solicitation information in the advertisement solicitation DB 106 .

[0061] For example, the advertisement management unit 123 generates advertisement posting information based on information from the advertiser's information processing device 13. The advertisement posting information includes, for example, a VTS ID, an advertisement slot, a display time, advertisement data, user attributes, approval information, and the number of PVs (Page Views).

[0062] The VTS ID is an ID for identifying the VTS to which the advertisement is to be placed.

[0063] The advertisement slot indicates an advertisement slot in which an advertisement is to be placed.

[0064] The display time indicates, for example, the time or time period when the advertisement is displayed within the advertising slot.

[0065] The advertisement data is data used for advertisements, and includes, for example, image data (moving image data or still image data) such as a banner, audio data, data indicating the text to be displayed, and the like.

[0066] For example, when limiting users to whom an advertisement is to be displayed, the user attribute indicates the attribute of the users to whom the advertisement is to be displayed.

[0067] The approval information is information indicating whether or not the placement of the advertisement has been approved.

[0068] The number of page views indicates, for example, the number of times an advertisement is displayed.

[0069] The advertisement management unit 123 stores the generated advertisement posting information in the posted advertisement DB 107 .

[0070] Furthermore, the advertisement management unit 123 generates advertisement information to be displayed on the user's information processing device 13 based on the advertisement submission information stored in the submitted advertisement DB 107 .

[0071] The vehicle dispatch management unit 124 manages vehicle dispatch orders from users. For example, in response to vehicle dispatch order information transmitted from the user's information processing device 13, the vehicle dispatch management unit 124 searches for available vehicles near the order location based on the probe data stored in the probe data storage unit 103. For example, the vehicle dispatch management unit 124 generates order information for requesting the searched available vehicle to be dispatched, and transmits the order information to the information processing terminal 32 of the taxi 11 requesting the dispatch via the communication unit 101 and the network 21. For example, the vehicle dispatch management unit 124 receives, via the network 21 and the communication unit 101, disembarkation information transmitted from the information processing terminal 32 of the taxi 11 for which a dispatch request has been made after the passenger disembarks.

[0072] The drop-off information may include, for example, a date, a boarding location, a drop-off location, and a fare. The drop-off information may also include, for example, a pick-up fee, an APP usage fee, a service usage fee, etc.

[0073] The date indicates the date (for example, year, month, and day) on which the taxi 11 was boarded.

[0074] The boarding location indicates, for example, the address of the location where the taxi 11 is boarded.

[0075] The drop-off location indicates, for example, the address of the location where the taxi 11 is dropped off.

[0076] The fare indicates the fare for the taxi 11 .

[0077] The ride history management unit 125 generates a ride history of the user riding in the dispatched taxi 11 based on the dispatch order information and the alighting information.

[0078] The ride history includes, for example, the user ID, date, boarding location, disembarking location, fare, cancellation information, etc.

[0079] The user ID is an ID for identifying a user.

[0080] The date indicates the date (for example, year, month, and day) on which the taxi 11 was boarded.

[0081] The boarding location indicates, for example, the address of the location where the taxi 11 is boarded.

[0082] The drop-off location indicates, for example, the address of the location where the taxi 11 is dropped off.

[0083] The fare indicates the fare for the taxi 11 .

[0084] The cancellation information is, for example, information indicating whether or not the vehicle dispatch order has been canceled.

[0085] The ride history management unit 125 stores the generated ride history in the ride history DB 109.

[0086] The presentation control unit 126 controls the presentation of various types of information in the information processing device 13. For example, the presentation control unit 126 controls the presentation of the ride recommendation information, advertisement information, or ride history information in the information processing device 13 by transmitting the ride recommendation information, advertisement information, or ride history information to the information processing device 13 via the network 21.

[0087] The probe data storage unit 103 stores the probe data of each taxi 11 generated by the probe data generation unit 121 .

[0088] The map information storage unit 104 stores map information of an area where the cloud server 12 provides services such as dispatching taxis 11. The map information includes, for example, a digital road map database.

[0089] For example, in map information, a road network is represented by a combination of nodes and links. Nodes represent, for example, intersections and other nodes in the representation of the road network. Links represent, for example, road sections between nodes. Furthermore, links are divided, for example, into lanes on the left and right sides of the road section.

[0090] The boarding recommendation information DB 105 stores the boarding recommendation information generated by the boarding recommendation information generating unit 122 .

[0091] The advertisement solicitation DB 106 stores advertisement solicitation information corresponding to each VTS.

[0092] The advertisement DB 107 stores advertisement information corresponding to each VTS.

[0093] The user DB 108 stores user information about each user, including, for example, a user ID, gender, date of birth, taxi fare, taxi ride distance, favorite VTS ID, etc.

[0094] The user ID is an ID for identifying a user.

[0095] The taxi fare indicates, for example, the total fare for the user's use of the taxi 11 up to the present time.

[0096] The taxi ride distance indicates, for example, the total distance traveled by the user in the taxi 11 up to the present time.

[0097] The favorite VTS ID indicates an ID for identifying a VTS that the user has registered in his / her favorites.

[0098] The ride history DB 109 stores the ride history of each user.

[0099] <Configuration Example of Information Processing Device 13> FIG. 3 shows a functional configuration example of the information processing device 13. As shown in FIG.

[0100] The information processing device 13 includes a control unit 201 , an input unit 202 , a display unit 203 , an audio output unit 204 , a haptic device 205 , a sensor unit 206 , a communication unit 207 , and a storage unit 208 .

[0101] The control unit 201 executes various APPs (application software) to realize various functions. For example, the control unit 201 includes a calculation unit 221, an information generation unit 222, and an output control unit 223.

[0102] The calculation unit 221 performs calculations necessary for the processing of the information processing device 13 .

[0103] The information generating unit 222 generates various types of information.

[0104] The output control unit 223 controls the output of visual information from the display unit 203 , auditory information from the audio output unit 204 , and tactile information from the haptic device 205 .

[0105] The input unit 202 includes input devices such as buttons, switches, a keyboard, a mouse, a touch panel, etc. The number and types of input devices included in the input unit 202 are not particularly limited.

[0106] The display unit 203 includes, for example, a display device such as a display, etc. The number and types of display devices included in the display unit 203 are not particularly limited.

[0107] The audio output unit 204 includes an audio output device such as a speaker, etc. The number and types of audio output devices included in the audio output unit 204 are not particularly limited.

[0108] The haptic device 205 is a device that outputs tactile information such as vibrations, etc. The number and type of the haptic device 205 are not particularly limited.

[0109] The sensor unit 206 includes various sensors, such as an IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit), a GNSS receiver, etc. The number and types of sensors included in the sensor unit 206 are not particularly limited.

[0110] The communication unit 207 communicates with external devices (for example, the cloud server 12, other information processing devices 13, the drive recorder 31, the information processing terminal 32, and the taxi meter 33) via the network 21. Note that the communication method of the communication unit 207 is not particularly limited.

[0111] The storage unit 208 stores data necessary for processing by the information processing device 13 .

[0112] It should be noted that not all of the above-described components of the information processing device 13 are necessarily required, and some may be omitted depending on the intended use.

[0113] <Probe Data Generation Process> Next, the probe data generation process executed by the cloud server 12 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

[0114] In step S1 , the cloud server 12 acquires data from the taxi 11 .

[0115] For example, the drive recorder 31 of the taxi 11 captures images of the surroundings of the taxi 11 while the taxi 11 is in operation, and transmits the captured image data to the cloud server 12 via the network 21.

[0116] In response to this, the probe data generation unit 121 of the cloud server 12 receives the video data from the drive recorder 31 via the network 21 and the communication unit 101 .

[0117] For example, the information processing terminal 32 of the taxi 11 generates movement data indicating the movement of the taxi 11 every unit time (for example, every 5 seconds) and transmits the movement data to the cloud server 12 via the network 21 .

[0118] In response to this, the probe data generation unit 121 of the cloud server 12 receives the behavior data from the information processing terminal 32 via the network 21 and the communication unit 101 .

[0119] For example, when the status of the taxi 11 changes, the taxi meter 33 of the taxi 11 generates status information indicating the status of the taxi 11 and transmits it to the cloud server 12 via the network 21 .

[0120] In response to this, the probe data generation unit 121 of the cloud server 12 receives the taxi status information from the taxi meter 33 via the network 21 and the communication unit 101 .

[0121] In step S2, the probe data generating unit 121 generates probe data. For example, the probe data generating unit 121 generates non-video data of the probe data based on the behavior data and the status information.

[0122] The non-video data and the video data are associated with each other by the video ID and timestamp included in the non-video data.

[0123] In step S3, the probe data generation unit 121 accumulates the probe data. Specifically, the probe data generation unit 121 stores the non-video data generated in the processing of step S2 in the probe data storage unit 103. The probe data generation unit 121 also stores the video data in the probe data storage unit 103.

[0124] Thereafter, the process returns to step S1, and the processes from step S1 onwards are executed.

[0125] <Ride Recommendation Information Generation Process> Next, the ride recommendation information generation process executed by the cloud server 12 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

[0126] This process is performed, for example, at predetermined intervals.

[0127] In step S51, the probe data generation unit 121 executes a probe data matching process.

[0128] The probe data matching process will now be described in detail with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

[0129] In step S101, the probe data generation unit 121 executes a map matching process for the non-video data. Specifically, the probe data generation unit 121 matches the non-video data of each piece of probe data with a link in the map information. That is, the probe data generation unit 121 detects to which link in the map information the location from which the non-video data of the probe data was acquired belongs. For example, the probe data generation unit 121 assigns to each piece of non-video data of the probe data the link ID of the link to which the location from which the non-video data was acquired belongs.

[0130] If the matching accuracy is poor, the matching results may be corrected manually, for example.

[0131] In step S102, the probe data generation unit 121 corrects the video data. For example, the probe data generation unit 121 removes unclear scenes from the video data. For example, scenes with insufficient illumination, scenes captured in bad weather (e.g., heavy rain, heavy snow, etc.), scenes in which the shoulder of the road is difficult to see due to obstacles such as parked vehicles, etc. are removed as unclear scenes.

[0132] In step S103, the probe data generation unit 121 executes a map matching process for the video data. For example, the probe data generation unit 121 uses image recognition or the like to match scenes for each unit time (e.g., one second) of the video data with map information. That is, the probe data generation unit 121 identifies the position in the map information of the shooting location of each scene for each unit time of the video data.

[0133] For example, the probe data generator 121 generates a table showing the results of map matching of the video data (hereinafter referred to as a video matching table). The video matching table includes, for example, a video ID, a timestamp, a link ID, and a position within the link.

[0134] The video ID is an ID for identifying the video data.

[0135] The timestamp is a timestamp given to the scene in question.

[0136] The link ID is a link ID corresponding to the link to which the shooting location of the target scene belongs.

[0137] The position within the link indicates the position within the link of the shooting location of the target scene. For example, the position within the link is set to a value between 0 and 1, with the start point of the link being 0 and the end point being 1.

[0138] The probe data generating unit 121 stores the video matching table in the probe data storage unit 103 .

[0139] If the matching accuracy is poor, the matching results may be corrected manually, for example.

[0140] The probe data matching process then ends.

[0141] The probe data matching process is performed on probe data that has not yet undergone matching processing.

[0142] 5 , in step S52, the ride recommendation information generation unit 122 extracts vacant vehicle status data. For example, the ride recommendation information generation unit 122 extracts the status data of probe data whose status is vacant and whose speed is equal to or less than a predetermined value (for example, equal to or less than 60 km / h) from the probe data stored in the probe data storage unit 103.

[0143] This extracts empty vehicle status data indicating the location, direction, speed, and date and time of the empty vehicle.

[0144] The reason for setting a speed limit is that it is assumed that taxis 11 traveling at or above a predetermined speed are traveling at high speeds because they are traveling in the inner lane, making it difficult for users to pick them up. In other words, the movement data of taxis 11 whose status is vacant and exceeds the predetermined speed is excluded from the vacant movement data.

[0145] In step S53, the ride recommendation information generation unit 122 generates supply forecast information. For example, the ride recommendation information generation unit 122 compiles the distribution of vacant vehicles per unit time for each link in the map information. For example, the ride recommendation information generation unit 122 predicts the supply of vacant vehicles for each link based on the compilation results, using techniques such as a linear model or deep learning.

[0146] The forecast supply amount is expressed, for example, by the frequency with which empty vehicles pass through each link. Specifically, for example, the forecast supply amount is expressed by an empty vehicle passing interval that indicates how many minutes an empty vehicle passes through each link.

[0147] The ride recommendation information generator 122 may predict the predicted supply volume for each link for each predetermined condition, which may include at least one of the following: year, month, date, day of the week, time period, whether it is a holiday or not (holiday or weekday), weather, temperature, etc.

[0148] The ride recommendation information generator 122 generates supply forecast information indicating a forecast supply amount for each link. The supply forecast information includes, for example, a link ID, a date and time, a forecast supply amount, and conditions.

[0149] The link ID is an ID for identifying a link.

[0150] The date and time indicates the date and time when the supply forecast information was generated.

[0151] The conditions indicate the conditions used to predict the supply forecast amount.

[0152] The boarding recommendation information generation unit 122 stores the generated forecast supply amount in the boarding recommendation information DB 105 .

[0153] In step S54, the riding recommendation information generation unit 122 generates riding suitability information.

[0154] For example, the ride recommendation information generating unit 122 divides each link in the map information into unit links each having a unit distance (for example, 1 m).

[0155] The ride recommendation information generation unit 122 performs image recognition on the video data stored in the probe data storage unit 103 and extracts the feature amount of each unit link. Based on the feature amount of each unit link, the ride recommendation information generation unit 122 calculates a ride suitability score that indicates the ease of boarding a taxi 11 at each unit link.

[0156] For example, the riding suitability score is initially set to 1 point, and is set within the range of 0 to 1 point using a demerit system.

[0157] For example, if a unit link is included in a no-parking area, the riding suitability score is deducted by 1 point. A no-parking area is an area where parking or stopping is prohibited by law, such as a place where there is a no-parking sign.

[0158] For example, if a unit link is located near a no-parking area (for example, within 1 m of the no-parking area), the riding suitability score is deducted by 0.5 points.

[0159] For example, if a unit link is included in a pedestrian-only area, the riding suitability score is deducted by 1 point. A pedestrian-only area is an area where pedestrians are prohibited from entering, such as a highway for automobiles.

[0160] For example, if a guardrail exists within a unit link, the riding suitability score is deducted based on the height of the guardrail. That is, the higher the guardrail, the greater the deduction. For example, if the guardrail is 1 meter high, the riding suitability score is deducted by 1 point, and if the guardrail is 50 cm high, the riding suitability score is deducted by 0.5 points.

[0161] If there is a gap in the guardrail within a unit link that allows pedestrians to pass through, the points deducted will be halved. For example, if the guardrail is 1 m high, the points deducted will be -0.5 points, and if the guardrail is 0.5 m high, the points deducted will be -0.25 points.

[0162] For example, if there is a step (e.g., a curb) on the shoulder of the road within a unit link, the riding suitability score is deducted based on the height of the step. That is, the higher the step, the greater the deduction. For example, if the step height is 20 cm, the riding suitability score is deducted by 0.2 points, and if the step height is 10 cm, the riding suitability score is deducted by 0.1 points.

[0163] For example, points are deducted from the riding suitability score based on the size of the parking space within the unit link. For example, if there is not enough space within the unit link to park the taxi 11 without obstructing traffic flow, the smaller the space, the greater the number of points deducted.

[0164] For example, points are deducted from the riding suitability score based on the size of the sidewalk space within the unit link. For example, if the size of the sidewalk space (i.e., the space where the user waits for the taxi 11) is equal to or smaller than a predetermined threshold, the smaller the space, the greater the number of points deducted.

[0165] If the riding suitability score falls below 0 points, it will be corrected to 0 points.

[0166] Furthermore, if each unit link satisfies a predetermined condition based on the feature amount of each unit link, the ride recommendation information generating unit 122 assigns a feature flag indicating the feature of each unit link to the unit link.

[0167] For example, the characteristic flags include a wheelchair permission flag indicating that the location is accessible to wheelchair users, a stroller permission flag indicating that the location is accessible to stroller users, and a wide flat flag indicating that the location has ample shoulder space and no steps.

[0168] For example, the riding suitability score of a unit link for which no video data exists or a unit link for which a feature cannot be extracted is set to 0 points.

[0169] The ride recommendation information generator 122 generates ride suitability information indicating the ride suitability score of each unit link. The ride suitability information includes, for example, a link ID, a sub-link ID, a date and time, a ride suitability score, and a feature flag.

[0170] The link ID is an ID for identifying the link to which the target unit link belongs.

[0171] The sub-link ID is an ID for identifying the target unit link within the link.

[0172] The date and time indicates the date and time when the riding suitability information was generated.

[0173] The feature flag indicates whether or not the various feature flags described above have been added.

[0174] The riding recommendation information generation unit 122 stores the generated riding suitability information in the riding recommendation information DB 105.

[0175] In step S55, the ride recommendation information generating unit 122 generates VTS information.

[0176] For example, the ride recommendation information generation unit 122 calculates the supply forecast score of each unit link based on the supply forecast amount of each link. For example, the ride recommendation information generation unit 122 calculates the supply forecast score of each unit link based on the following formula (1).

[0177] Supply forecast score = 1 / empty vehicle passing interval (minutes) ... (1)

[0178] The supply forecast score is larger for unit links that belong to links with a larger number of empty vehicle passages, whereas the supply forecast score is smaller for unit links that belong to links with a smaller number of empty vehicle passages.

[0179] The supply forecast scores of each unit link within the same link basically have the same value.

[0180] Next, the ride recommendation information generation unit 122 calculates a ride recommendation score for each unit link based on the supply prediction score and the ride suitability score for each unit link. For example, the ride recommendation information generation unit 122 calculates the ride recommendation score for each unit link based on the following formula (2).

[0181] Ride recommendation score = supply forecast score × ride suitability score (2)

[0182] The ride recommendation score indicates the ride recommendation degree, which is the degree to which each unit link is suitable for waiting for a taxi 11. In other words, the ride recommendation score is higher for unit links with a higher number of empty vehicles passing through or for unit links with an easier way to board a taxi 11. On the other hand, the ride recommendation score is lower for unit links with a lower number of empty vehicles passing through or for unit links with an easier way to board a taxi 11.

[0183] Next, the ride recommendation information generation unit 122 installs the VTS based on the ride recommendation score.

[0184] Here, for example, the ride recommendation information generator 122 limits the installation interval or number of VTSs on each link. For example, the ride recommendation information generator 122 divides each link into divided links at predetermined distances (for example, 50 m). Within each divided link, the ride recommendation information generator 122 sets the unit link with the largest ride recommendation score that is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold as the VTS. As a result, a VTS is installed within each predetermined distance range in the map information.

[0185] The boarding recommendation information generator 122 generates VTS information, which includes, for example, a VTS ID, a link ID, a sub-link ID, a date and time, a location, a predicted supply amount, a boarding suitability score, a feature flag, and approach information.

[0186] The VTS ID is an ID for identifying the target VTS.

[0187] The link ID is an ID for identifying the link including the target VTS.

[0188] The sublink ID is an ID for identifying the sublink that includes the target VTS.

[0189] The date and time indicates the date and time when the target VTS was installed.

[0190] The location indicates the location (e.g., latitude, longitude) of the target VTS.

[0191] The forecast supply amount indicates the forecast supply amount of the target VTS, for example, the interval at which empty vehicles pass through the target VTS.

[0192] The riding suitability score indicates the riding suitability score of the target VTS.

[0193] The feature flag indicates the feature flag assigned to the unit link including the target VTS.

[0194] The approach information indicates the approach status of an empty vehicle to the target VTS, as will be described later.

[0195] For example, if there is no unit link within a divided link whose ride recommendation score is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold, a VTS will not be installed within that divided link.

[0196] The ride recommendation information generation unit 122 stores the generated VTS information in the ride recommendation information DB 105 .

[0197] Thereafter, the ride recommendation information generation process ends.

[0198] <Ride Recommendation Information Providing Process> Next, the ride recommendation information providing process executed by the cloud server 12 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

[0199] This process is started, for example, when the information processing device 13 requests transmission of ride recommendation information.

[0200] In step S151, the probe data generation unit 121 generates vacant vehicle status data. For example, the probe data generation unit 121 reads out probe data whose status is vacant from the probe data stored in the probe data storage unit 103 within a recent predetermined time period (for example, within 5 seconds). The probe data generation unit 121 generates vacant vehicle status data based on the read out probe data.

[0201] In step S152, the ride recommendation information generator 122 updates the ride recommendation information.

[0202] For example, the boarding recommendation information generator 122 updates the approach information included in the VTS information for each VTS based on the vacant vehicle status data. The approach information includes, for example, the distance to the closest vacant vehicle among vacant vehicles moving in the direction of the VTS. Note that, for example, if there are no vacant vehicles moving in the direction of the VTS within a predetermined distance, the approach information indicates that there are no approaching vacant vehicles.

[0203] For example, the boarding recommendation information generating unit 122 updates the supply forecast information based on the vacant vehicle status data as needed (for example, at predetermined intervals).

[0204] For example, the riding recommendation information generation unit 122 updates the riding suitability information based on the probe data stored in the probe data storage unit 103 as needed (for example, at predetermined intervals).

[0205] In step S153, the ride recommendation information generation unit 122 transmits the ride recommendation information, etc. For example, the ride recommendation information generation unit 122 transmits the ride recommendation information including the supply forecast information, the ride suitability information, and the VTS information, as well as the vacant vehicle status data, to the information processing device 13 via the communication unit 101 and the network 21.

[0206] Thereafter, the ride recommendation information provision process ends.

[0207] <Ride Recommendation Information Presentation Process> Next, the ride recommendation information presentation process executed by the information processing device 13 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

[0208] This process is started, for example, when the user instructs the information processing device 13 via the input unit 202 to present ride recommendation information.

[0209] In step S201, the output control unit 223 acquires the user's settings.

[0210] For example, the user uses the input unit 202 to input conditions for presenting ride recommendation information.

[0211] Specifically, for example, when displaying supply forecast information, the user can set it so that only areas where the supply forecast amount is equal to or greater than a specified threshold are displayed. More specifically, for example, the user can set it so that only areas where the empty vehicle passing interval, which indicates the supply forecast amount, is equal to or less than a specified time are displayed.

[0212] For example, when displaying riding suitability information, the user can set it to display only areas where the riding suitability based on the riding suitability score is equal to or greater than a specified threshold. The riding suitability can be set to one of five levels from 1 to 5 based on the riding suitability score from 0 to 1, for example.

[0213] For example, when displaying riding suitability information, the user can set it so that only areas to which a specified characteristic flag is assigned are displayed.

[0214] In step S202, the output control unit 223 receives the boarding recommendation information, etc. For example, the output control unit 223 receives the boarding recommendation information and vacant vehicle status data transmitted from the cloud server 12 in the processing of step S153 in FIG. 7 via the network 21 and the communication unit 207.

[0215] In step S203, the display unit 203 displays the boarding recommendation information under the control of the output control unit 223.

[0216] Thereafter, the ride recommendation information presentation process ends.

[0217] Here, a specific example of a method for displaying ride recommendation information will be described.

[0218] For example, supply forecast information and riding suitability information are displayed as riding recommendation information.

[0219] 9 shows an example of a display of supply forecast information. In this example, the forecast supply amount of vacant vehicles for each link (road) on the map is indicated by different shades of color. For example, the higher the supply forecast score described above, the darker the color, and the lower the supply forecast score, the lighter the color. In other words, the darker the color of a link, the easier it is to find an vacant vehicle in that area, and the lighter the color of a link, the harder it is to find an vacant vehicle in that area.

[0220] Here, for example, if the system is set to display only areas where the supply forecast amount is equal to or greater than a specified threshold, areas (links) where the supply forecast amount is less than the specified threshold will not be displayed in color and will appear white.

[0221] Note that differences in forecast supply amounts may be expressed by changes in display modes other than color shading.

[0222] 10 shows an example of a display of riding suitability information. In this example, the riding suitability score of each unit link (point) on the map is displayed by a shade of color. For example, the higher the riding suitability score, the darker the color, and the lower the riding suitability score, the lighter the color.

[0223] Here, for example, if the setting is such that only areas with a riding suitability score above a specified threshold are displayed, areas with a riding suitability score below the specified threshold will not be displayed in color (unit link) and will be white.

[0224] In addition, differences in riding suitability scores may be expressed by changes in display manner other than color shading.

[0225] Also, for example, if it is set to display only areas that have a specified feature flag assigned, only the areas (unit links) that have the specified feature flag assigned will be displayed in shades of color, and other areas will be white without any color displayed.

[0226] For example, the supply forecast information and the riding suitability information may be automatically switched between and displayed alternately. For example, the supply forecast information and the riding suitability information may be manually switched between and displayed. For example, the supply forecast information and the riding suitability information may be displayed side by side.

[0227] Furthermore, for example, as shown in FIG. 11 , recommended ride area information that combines supply forecast information and ride suitability information may be displayed. In this example, the ride recommendation score of each unit link (location) on the map is indicated by a shade of color. For example, the higher the ride recommendation score, the darker the color, and the lower the ride recommendation score, the lighter the color. In other words, a place (area) that is suitable for waiting for a taxi 11 is displayed with a shade corresponding to its suitability (ride recommendation score).

[0228] In this case as well, the area in which the color shading is displayed is set according to the conditions specified by the user.

[0229] Note that differences in the ride recommendation score may be expressed by changes in the display mode other than the shade of color.

[0230] For example, when a predetermined operation such as tapping is performed on the screen of the recommended riding area information of FIG. 11, the supply forecast information of FIG. 9 or the riding suitability information of FIG. 10 may be displayed.

[0231] The recommended boarding area information and the above-mentioned video matching table may be generated, for example, by the cloud server 12 or by the information processing device 13.

[0232] For example, the VTSs may be displayed as shown in Fig. 12. In this example, the locations of VTSs V1 to V4 are displayed on a map.

[0233] For example, when a predetermined operation such as tapping is performed on the screen displaying the VTS of Figure 12 (hereinafter referred to as the VTS display screen), the supply forecast information of Figure 9 or the riding suitability information of Figure 10 may be displayed.

[0234] Next, modified examples of the VTS display screen will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0235] The VTS display screen of FIG. 13 presents the user's current location, the location of each VTS, and the forecast supply amount at each VTS.

[0236] Specifically, a current location icon P11 indicating the user's current location and VTS icons V11 to V13 indicating the locations of the VTSs are displayed on the map.

[0237] The display mode of each VTS icon changes based on the forecast supply amount for each VTS, as shown on the right side of FIG. 13, for example.

[0238] Specifically, for example, the supply forecast volume is classified into five levels: "Taxis hardly come," "Taxis come every 10 to 15 minutes," "Taxis come every 5 to 10 minutes," "Taxis come every 3 to 5 minutes," and "Taxis come every 0 to 3 minutes." The design of the VTS icon changes depending on the level of the supply forecast volume.

[0239] This allows the user to easily recognize the location of each VTS relative to the current location and the forecast supply amount at each VTS.

[0240] The VTS display screen of Fig. 14 further displays the location of an empty vehicle. Specifically, in addition to the VTS display screen of Fig. 13, an empty vehicle icon T11 indicating the current location of an empty vehicle is displayed.

[0241] This allows the user to further recognize the location of vacant vehicles.

[0242] FIG. 15 shows an example in which conditions for displaying the forecast supply amount of each VTS can be set on the VTS display screen.

[0243] FIG. 15A shows an example of a screen for setting display conditions for forecast supply amounts.

[0244] On this setting screen, a window 301 and a window 302 are displayed superimposed on the VTS display screen of FIG.

[0245] A window 301 shows options for display conditions.

[0246] In this example, the display condition setting items include day of the week, time, weekday / holiday, and weather. The user can select a desired option from the displayed options.

[0247] A window 302 shows the display conditions currently selected in the window 301 .

[0248] Then, when the display condition settings are confirmed, for example, the VTS display screen shown in FIG. 15B is displayed.

[0249] In the VTS display screen of FIG. 15B, a window 311 and a window 312 are added to the VTS display screen of FIG.

[0250] The window 311 displays the forecast supply amount display conditions, such as day of the week, time, and weekday / holiday.

[0251] Window 312 displays the weather, which is one of the display conditions for the forecast supply amount.

[0252] Then, the forecast supply amount of each VTS under the set display conditions is displayed. Specifically, the VTS icon corresponding to each VTS is displayed in a manner corresponding to the forecast supply amount under the set display conditions.

[0253] Furthermore, for example, when the user selects a VTS icon corresponding to a desired VTS and performs a predetermined operation, a window 321 showing the distribution of the forecast supply amount for the selected VTS is displayed, as shown in FIG.

[0254] In the window 321, the distribution of the forecast supply amount by time for the selected VTS for the specified day of the week, weekday / holiday, and weather is displayed.

[0255] This allows the user to easily check the distribution of forecast supply amounts by time under specified conditions at a desired VTS.

[0256] Next, modified examples of the method of displaying ride recommendation information will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0257] For example, the ride recommendation information may be displayed using xR (cross reality) such as VR (virtual reality), AR (augmented reality), and MR (mixed reality).

[0258] For example, FIG. 17 shows an example in which, when the information processing device 13 is configured as an HMD, boarding recommendation information is displayed superimposed on the real world using VR or AR.

[0259] For example, display effects 341a and 341b indicating locations where it is possible to board the taxi 11 are superimposed on the real space. Also, display effects 342a and 342b indicating locations where it is not possible to board the taxi 11 due to curbs or the like are superimposed on the real space.

[0260] This allows the user to clearly distinguish between locations in real space where the taxi 11 can be boarded and locations where it cannot be boarded.

[0261] For example, if the information processing device 13 is configured as a smartphone, a specific APP may be used to superimpose a display effect indicating the boarding recommendation information shown in Figure 17 on an image captured of real space.

[0262] For example, if a user is walking while listening to music or the like through headphones using the information processing device 13 and approaches a VTS, the VTS may be notified of the approach by a voice message such as, "There is a place in the vicinity where it is easy to catch a taxi."

[0263] For example, when the information processing device 13 is configured by a smartphone, information guiding the nearest VTS may be displayed as shown in FIG.

[0264] Specifically, the screen of FIG. 18 displays a current location icon 361 indicating the current location, and guidance information 362 indicating the direction and distance to the nearest VTS.

[0265] This allows the user to easily navigate to the nearest VTS without using a map, for example, when it is difficult to use a map.

[0266] Difficulty in using a map may occur, for example, when the map is too detailed and difficult to read, or when the user lacks the ability to read a map.

[0267] Instead of the nearest VTS, the VTS with the largest predicted supply volume within a predetermined range from the current location may be introduced.

[0268] For example, when the information processing device 13 is configured by a smartphone, as shown in FIG. 19, the VTS around the user's current location may be displayed without using a map.

[0269] Specifically, on the screen of Fig. 19, a current location icon 381 indicating the user's current location is displayed at the center of a grid coordinate system. Also, VTS icons 382 indicating the locations of VTSs around the current location are displayed.

[0270] This allows the user to easily navigate to the nearest VTS without using a map, for example, when it is difficult to use a map.

[0271] For example, the location of the VTS may be displayed on a map in the navigation system of the taxi 11 or the user's vehicle.

[0272] For example, if the location of the VTS is displayed in the navigation system of the taxi 11, the driver of the taxi 11 can improve the probability of picking up a passenger by heading towards the VTS.

[0273] For example, if the location of the VTS is displayed on the navigation system of the user's vehicle, the passenger can be directed to a location where the taxi 11 is easily hailed.

[0274] For example, when a user inputs a destination, a VTS suitable for heading to the destination (hereinafter referred to as a recommended VTS) may be presented.

[0275] For example, as shown in FIG. 20A, the user inputs a destination in a window 401 displayed on the VTS display screen.

[0276] In response to this, for example, the calculation unit 221 of the information processing device 13 searches for a recommended VTS from among VTSs around the user's current location based on the user's current location and destination.

[0277] For example, the recommended VTSs are searched for based on at least one of the distance and travel time from the user's current location to each VTS, the distance and travel time from each VTS to the destination, and the predicted supply volume of each VTS. That is, a VTS that is close to the user's current location or close to the destination, or a VTS where it is easy to catch a taxi 11 is searched for.

[0278] Next, recommended VTSs are presented as shown in B and C of Fig. 20. For example, the display mode of the VTS icon V13 corresponding to the selected recommended VTS changes.

[0279] In contrast, for example, by approaching the recommended VTS, the user becomes more likely to be found by the driver of the taxi 11 and to hail a taxi 11.

[0280] For example, after a user gets into taxi 11, when the user checks in using the information processing device 13 on a tablet terminal in the back seat of taxi 11, the destination entered into the information processing device 13 may be automatically set in the navigation system of taxi 11.

[0281] <Empty Vehicle Approach Notification Processing> Next, with reference to FIG. 21, an empty vehicle approach notification processing executed by the information processing device 13 will be described.

[0282] In step S251, similar to the process in step S202 of FIG. 8, boarding recommendation information and the like are received.

[0283] In step S252, the boarding recommendation information is displayed in the same manner as in step S203 of FIG.

[0284] As a result, for example, the above-mentioned VTS display screen is displayed.

[0285] In step S253, the output control unit 223 determines whether an empty vehicle is approaching the VTS based on the approach information included in the VTS information of the boarding recommendation information. If it is determined that an empty vehicle is approaching the VTS, the process proceeds to step S254.

[0286] In step S254, the display unit 203, under the control of the output control unit 223, notifies the user that an empty vehicle is approaching.

[0287] Here, an example of a method for notifying an approaching vacant vehicle will be described with reference to FIG.

[0288] For example, the display manner of the VTS icons V11 to V13 on the VTS display screen changes based on the distance to an empty vehicle, as shown on the right side of FIG.

[0289] For example, if an empty vehicle is approaching within a 100 m radius of the VTS, the corresponding VTS icon will flash brightly.

[0290] For example, if an empty vehicle is approaching within a radius of 100 m to 200 m centered on the VTS, the corresponding VTS icon will blink with a medium brightness.

[0291] For example, if there are no vacant vehicles within a 200 m radius of a VTS, the corresponding VTS icon will not blink.

[0292] This allows the user to easily recognize the VTS to which an empty vehicle is approaching.

[0293] Thereafter, the process returns to step S251, and the processes from step S251 onwards are executed.

[0294] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S253 that no empty vehicle is approaching the VTS, the process returns to step S251, and the processes from step S251 onwards are executed.

[0295] Next, with reference to Figs. 23 to 25, an example of a method for notifying an approaching vacant vehicle when the information processing device 13 is configured by an IoT device will be described.

[0296] FIG. 23 shows an example in which the information processing device 13 is configured by a digital signage 501.

[0297] For example, an actual taxi stand is installed in a VTS, and digital signage 501 is installed thereon. Digital signage 501 then displays the predicted time when an empty taxi will pass through this taxi stand.

[0298] FIG. 24 shows an example in which the information processing device 13 is configured by an analog clock 521.

[0299] The clock 521 is installed, for example, outdoors or indoors in a place where the general public can pass through or enter. For example, the clock 521 is installed in a public place such as a road or a park, or in a building such as a restaurant or commercial facility.

[0300] The clock 521 acquires location information of the location where the clock 521 is installed, for example, using a GNSS receiver, etc. Then, the clock 521 transmits the acquired location information to the cloud server 12 and inquires about ride recommendation information for nearby VTSs. Then, the clock 521 presents information about approaching vacant vehicles for nearby VTSs based on the acquired ride recommendation information.

[0301] For example, a clock 521 has a display 522 on which the location of the nearest VTS is displayed.

[0302] Additionally, a predicted time 523 at which an empty vehicle will pass the nearest VTS is displayed around the dial of the clock 521. In this example, it is shown that an empty vehicle is predicted to pass the nearest VTS to the location where the clock 521 is installed in 10 to 20 minutes.

[0303] FIG. 25 shows an example in which the information processing device 13 is configured by an analog clock 541.

[0304] The clock 541 is placed in the same position as the clock 521 in FIG. 24 and executes the same processing.

[0305] For example, the clock 541 has a display 542 on which the predicted time when an empty vehicle will pass the nearest VTS is displayed.

[0306] FIG. 26 shows an example in which the information processing device 13 is configured as a kiosk terminal installed in a convenience store or the like.

[0307] For example, as shown in A of Fig. 26, an item "Taxi Stand" is displayed in the menu on the screen of the kiosk terminal. When "Taxi Stand" is selected, the screen shown in B of Fig. 26 is displayed.

[0308] 26B shows a map of the area around the store where the kiosk terminal is installed. Within this map, a window 571 showing the location of the store and a balloon 572 showing the location of the nearest VTS are displayed. The balloon 572 displays the estimated time when an empty vehicle will pass by the nearest VTS.

[0309] The approach of an empty vehicle to the VTS may be notified by a method other than visual information. For example, the approach of an empty vehicle to the VTS may be notified by auditory information such as a voice or tactile information such as vibration of the information processing device 13.

[0310] In addition, for example, the user may be allowed to set conditions for notifying the user of the approach of an empty vehicle.

[0311] For example, the user may be allowed to specify a VTS to notify of the approach of an unoccupied vehicle. That is, the user may be notified of the approach of an unoccupied vehicle only when the unoccupied vehicle approaches the specified VTS.

[0312] For example, the user may be able to set the timing for receiving a notification of an approaching vacant vehicle. For example, the user may be notified of the approaching vacant vehicle when the time until the vacant vehicle passes the VTS falls within a time set by the user.

[0313] For example, if it is expected that it will take a long time for an available vehicle to pass by a VTS near the user, dispatching a taxi 11 may be suggested.

[0314] For example, the calculation unit 221 of the information processing device 13 predicts the total time of the travel time to the nearest VTS and the waiting time for the taxi 11, and the waiting time if a taxi 11 is called from the current location. If the latter is short, a window 591 and a window 592 are displayed on the VTS display screen as shown in A of Fig. 27 .

[0315] A window 591 is used to input a destination.

[0316] Information urging the user to switch to dispatching a taxi is displayed in window 592. For example, because there are few taxis 11 available nearby, a message is displayed urging the user to switch to calling a taxi 11. If "Yes" is selected in window 592, the screen shown in FIG. 27B is displayed.

[0317] 27B, a window 601 is displayed. In the window 601, the estimated arrival time of the taxi 11 when it is called is displayed.

[0318] 27B, an operation menu for calling a taxi 11 is displayed at the bottom of the screen. For example, the current location and destination are displayed, and an operation method for calling a taxi 11 is also displayed.

[0319] This allows the user to board the taxi 11 more quickly.

[0320] <Advertisement Display Processing> For example, new value may be created by using the VTS for purposes other than its original purpose, i.e., as a waiting area for taxis 11. This is expected to improve the profitability of businesses that use the VTS.

[0321] For example, like a bus stop, it may be possible to allow nearby stores and the like to place advertisements on the VTS.

[0322] Here, the advertisement registration process executed by the cloud server 12 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0323] In step S301, the advertisement management unit 123 registers advertisement solicitation information.

[0324] For example, the advertising manager uses the information processing device 13 to set an advertising space, an advertising fee, etc. for the VTS to which the advertisement is to be placed, and generates advertising solicitation information indicating the set contents. The information processing device 13 transmits the advertising solicitation information to the cloud server 12 via the communication unit 207 and the network 21.

[0325] In response to this, the advertisement management unit 123 of the cloud server 12 receives the advertisement solicitation information via the network 21 and the communication unit 101. The advertisement management unit 123 stores the advertisement solicitation information in the advertisement solicitation DB 106.

[0326] In step S302, the cloud server 12 presents the advertisement space. For example, the presentation control unit 126 transmits advertisement solicitation information to the advertiser's information processing device 13 via the communication unit 101 and the network 21.

[0327] In response to this, the advertiser's information processing device 13 displays a list of advertising frames in which advertisements can be placed, etc., based on the advertising solicitation information.

[0328] In step S303, the advertisement management unit 123 receives advertisement posting information.

[0329] For example, the advertiser uses the information processing device 13 to input information for placing an advertisement in a desired advertisement space.

[0330] In response to this, the information processing device 13 generates advertisement posting information and transmits the advertisement posting information to the cloud server 12 via the communication unit 207 and the network 21.

[0331] The advertiser can place an advertisement by selecting, for example, either plan A or plan B below.

[0332] For example, in Plan A, when VTS information is displayed on the VTS display screen displayed on the information processing device 13, information about the advertiser's store, etc. (e.g., store name, website link, map, etc.) is also displayed.

[0333] For example, in Plan B, a VTS is installed near an advertiser's store or the like, and the location of the advertiser's store or the like is displayed on a map on the VTS display screen displayed on the information processing device 13. This makes it possible to provide the advertiser's store or the like as a waiting location for the taxi 11. Also, for example, by using the method described above with reference to FIG. 24 or 25, it becomes possible to notify the user of the approach of an empty taxi at the advertiser's store or the like. This allows the user to wait leisurely inside the cafe for the taxi 11, for example, if the advertiser's store or the like is a coffee shop.

[0334] In response to this, the advertisement management unit 123 of the cloud server 12 receives the advertisement posting information via the network 21 and the communication unit 101 .

[0335] In step S304, the advertisement management unit 123 determines whether the advertisement posting information has been approved.

[0336] For example, the advertisement management unit 123 transmits advertisement submission information to the information processing device 13 of the advertisement operator via the communication unit 101 and the network 21 .

[0337] The advertising manager checks the advertisement posting information using the information processing device 13. The advertising manager also uses the information processing device 13 to decide whether to approve the advertisement posting information and transmits information indicating the approval result to the cloud server 12.

[0338] In response to this, the advertising management unit 123 of the cloud server 12 receives information indicating the result of the approval via the network 21 and the communication unit 101. If the advertising management unit 123 determines, based on the received information, that the advertising submission information has been approved, the process proceeds to step S305.

[0339] In step S305, the advertisement management unit 123 registers the advertisement posting information. Specifically, the advertisement management unit 123 registers the advertisement posting information approved by the advertising operator in the posted advertisement DB 107.

[0340] Then, the advertisement registration process ends.

[0341] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S304 that the advertisement posting information has not been approved, the process of step S305 is skipped and the advertisement registration process ends.

[0342] Next, with reference to FIG. 29, a ride recommendation information presentation process executed by the user's information processing device 13 will be described.

[0343] In steps S351 and S352, the same processes as in steps S201 and S202 in FIG. 8 are executed.

[0344] In step S353, the information processing device 13 receives the advertisement information.

[0345] For example, the advertisement management unit 123 of the cloud server 12 reads out advertisement posting information related to advertisements corresponding to VTSs near the user from the posted advertisement DB 107. Based on the read advertisement posting information, the advertisement management unit 123 generates advertisement information to be displayed on the user's information processing device 13. The presentation control unit 126 transmits the advertisement information to the user's information processing device 13 via the communication unit 101 and the network 21.

[0346] In response to this, the output control unit 223 of the information processing device 13 receives the advertising information via the network 21 and the communication unit 207 .

[0347] In step S354, the display unit 203, under the control of the output control unit 223, displays the boarding recommendation information and the advertising information.

[0348] Then, the recommended information presentation process ends.

[0349] Here, an example of a method for displaying an advertisement will be described with reference to FIG.

[0350] FIG. 30A shows an example of a method for displaying an advertisement when the advertisement is placed according to the above-mentioned plan A.

[0351] In this example, a window 701 is displayed on the VTS display screen.

[0352] The window 701 displays information about an empty vehicle approaching the VTS corresponding to the VTS icon V22 (hereinafter referred to as the target VTS), and advertising information for the target VTS.

[0353] Specifically, the approach information includes the predicted time when an empty vehicle will pass the target VTS, the address of the target VTS, and the distance and required time to the target VTS.

[0354] The advertisement information includes an advertisement for a store (Bunjundo Bookstore) near the target VTS, and a button. For example, when the button is pressed, detailed information about the store (for example, the store's website) is displayed.

[0355] FIG. 30B shows an example of a method for displaying an advertisement when the advertisement is placed according to the above-mentioned plan B.

[0356] In this example, a window 711 is displayed on the VTS display screen.

[0357] The window 711 displays approach information similar to the approach information in the window 701 in FIG. 30A, as well as guidance information for premium members.

[0358] Also, an icon 712 indicating the location of the advertiser's store (Bunjundo Bookstore) is displayed on the map. Also, a VTS is installed near the advertiser's store, and a VTS icon V22 corresponding to the installed VTS is displayed.

[0359] For example, advertisements may be displayed to free users, but not to paid users.

[0360] Furthermore, for example, naming rights may be set for the VTS, and advertisers may give any name they like to the VTS by paying an advertising fee.

[0361] <Method of Presenting VTS in Ride History> Next, a method of presenting VTS in the ride history of the taxi 11 will be described with reference to FIGS. 31 to 33. FIG.

[0362] First, the ride history recording process executed by the cloud server 12 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

[0363] In step S401, the vehicle dispatch management unit 124 receives vehicle dispatch order information.

[0364] For example, a user uses the information processing device 13 to generate dispatch order information for ordering the dispatch of a taxi 11 and transmits the information to the cloud server 12 via the network 21 .

[0365] In response to this, the vehicle dispatch management unit 124 of the cloud server 12 receives the vehicle dispatch order information via the network 21 and the communication unit 101 .

[0366] In step S402, the dispatch management unit 124 transmits order information. Specifically, the dispatch management unit 124 searches for available vehicles near the user (order location) based on the probe data stored in the probe data storage unit 103. The dispatch management unit 124 generates order information for requesting the searched available vehicle to be dispatched. The dispatch management unit 124 transmits the order information to the information processing terminal 32 of the requested taxi 11 via the communication unit 101 and the network 21.

[0367] In step S403, the vehicle dispatch management unit 124 receives the disembarking information.

[0368] For example, the information processing terminal 32 of the taxi 11 that has received a dispatch request generates disembarking information after the passenger disembarks. The disembarking information includes, for example, the date, the address of the boarding location, the address of the disembarking location, and the fare. The information processing terminal 32 transmits the disembarking information to the cloud server 12 via the network 21.

[0369] In response to this, the vehicle dispatch management unit 124 of the cloud server 12 receives the disembarking information via the network 21 and the communication unit 101.

[0370] In step S404, the ride history management unit 125 records the ride history. Specifically, the ride history management unit 125 generates a ride history of the user riding in the dispatched taxi 11 based on the dispatch order information and the disembarkation information. The ride history management unit 125 stores the generated ride history in the ride history DB 109.

[0371] After that, the ride history recording process ends.

[0372] <Ride History Presentation Process> Next, with reference to FIG. 32, the ride history presentation process executed by the information processing device 13 will be described.

[0373] In step S451, the output control unit 223 receives the ride history and VTS information. For example, the output control unit 223 transmits information requesting transmission of the ride history to the cloud server 12 via the communication unit 207 and the network 21.

[0374] In response to this, the presentation control unit 126 of the cloud server 12 reads out the ride history of the user who requested transmission of the ride history from the ride history DB 109. The presentation control unit 126 also searches the ride recommendation information DB 105 for VTSs near the boarding and disembarking locations in the ride history (for example, within a 5-meter radius). The presentation control unit 126 reads out VTS information corresponding to the detected VTS from the ride recommendation information DB 105. The presentation control unit 126 transmits the ride history and VTS information to the information processing device 13 via the communication unit 101 and the network 21.

[0375] In response to this, the output control unit 223 of the information processing device 13 receives the ride history and VTS information via the network 21 and the communication unit 207.

[0376] In step S452, the display unit 203, under the control of the output control unit 223, displays a ride history list based on the ride history.

[0377] In step S453, the output control unit 223 determines whether a VTS is present near the boarding or disembarking location based on the boarding history and VTS information. If it is determined that a VTS is present near the boarding or disembarking location, the process proceeds to step S454.

[0378] In step S454, the display unit 203 notifies the user of the presence of a VTS in the ride history list under the control of the output control unit 223. For example, an icon or the like indicating the presence of a VTS is displayed in association with the boarding location or disembarking location in the ride history list.

[0379] After that, the ride history display process ends.

[0380] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S453 that there is no VTS near the boarding or disembarking location, the processing of step S454 is skipped and the ride history display processing ends.

[0381] Here, an example of a method for displaying a ride history will be described with reference to FIG.

[0382] A of Fig. 33 shows an example of a display of a ride history list. In this example, ride histories are displayed in order from top to bottom, starting with the most recent.

[0383] Each ride history displays the date of boarding, the address of the boarding point, the address of the drop-off point, and the fare. If a reservation was made but the reservation was canceled without boarding, that information will also be displayed.

[0384] Icons 801a to 801e indicate that a VTS is located near the boarding or disembarking location (for example, within a 5-meter radius). In other words, if a VTS is located near the boarding or disembarking location, icon 801a to 801e are displayed to the right of the boarding or disembarking location.

[0385] Icons 802a to 802e displayed to the right of icons 801a to 801e are icons for registering a VTS as a favorite. For example, by pressing icon 802a to 802e, the user can register a VTS near the boarding or disembarking location as a favorite.

[0386] The display modes of the icons 802a to 802e differ depending on whether or not the icon has already been registered as a favorite.

[0387] Furthermore, for example, when a VTS is registered in the favorites, a list of the VTSs registered in the favorites is displayed as shown in B of Fig. 33. In this example, the addresses of the VTSs registered in the favorites are displayed in a vertical row.

[0388] Furthermore, when one of the favorite VTSs is selected on the screen of FIG. 33B, a VTS display screen including a map of the vicinity of the selected VTS is displayed.

[0389] This allows the user to recognize a VTS near the boarding or disembarking location of the taxi 11. In addition, for example, the user can easily use a registered VTS by registering a VTS near a boarding or disembarking location that the user frequently uses as a favorite.

[0390] For example, as shown in Figures 34 and 35, when a user gets into a taxi 11, the user (passenger) may be notified of a VTS near the boarding or disembarking location.

[0391] FIG. 34 shows an example of a receipt for a taxi 11.

[0392] In this example, a QR code (registered trademark) 821 and a QR code 822 are displayed on the receipt for the taxi 11.

[0393] If a VTS is present near the boarding location, the QR code 821 indicates the URL of a website that displays information about the VTS. For example, the user can read the QR code 821 using the information processing device 13 to display information about VTSs near the boarding location on the information processing device 13. Furthermore, for example, the user can register the displayed VTS as a favorite.

[0394] If there is no VTS near the boarding location, the QR code 821 will not be displayed.

[0395] If a VTS is located near the destination, the QR code 822 indicates the URL of a website that displays information about the VTS. For example, the user can read the QR code 821 using the information processing device 13 to display information about VTSs near the destination on the information processing device 13. Furthermore, for example, the user can register the displayed VTS as a favorite.

[0396] If there is no VTS near the drop-off location, the QR code 822 will not be displayed.

[0397] FIG. 35 shows an example in which the information processing device 13 is configured as a display 841 for the rear seat of a taxi 11.

[0398] In this example, a QR code 842 is displayed on a display 841 .

[0399] If a VTS is present near the boarding location, the QR code 842 indicates the URL of a website that displays information about the VTS. For example, the user can read the QR code 842 using the information processing device 13 to display information about VTSs near the boarding location on the information processing device 13. Furthermore, for example, the user can register the displayed VTS as a favorite.

[0400] If there is no VTS near the boarding location, the QR code 842 will not be displayed.

[0401] As a result, passengers of the taxi 11 can easily know the existence of a VTS near their boarding or disembarking location. In addition, for example, passengers can register a VTS near their boarding or disembarking location as a favorite, which allows them to easily use the registered VTS.

[0402] <VTS Update Process> For example, the settings of the VTS may be updated based on user opinions and requests. That is, the VTS may be installed, moved, or removed based on user opinions and requests.

[0403] Here, the VTS update process executed by the cloud server 12 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

[0404] In step S501, the ride recommendation information generating unit 122 determines whether or not an evaluation of the VTS has been received.

[0405] For example, the user can use the information processing device 13 to input an evaluation of the VTS.

[0406] Here, an example of a method for inputting a VTS evaluation will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0407] FIG. 37A shows an example of a VTS display screen.

[0408] In this example, the VTS icon V13 is selected, and a window 901 showing information about the target VTS corresponding to the selected VTS icon V13 is displayed.

[0409] In window 901, information on approach of empty vehicles to the target VTS is displayed, similar to that in window 701 of Fig. 30A. Also displayed are buttons for evaluating the target VTS.

[0410] When the button for rating the target VTS is pressed, a window 911 for inputting the rating for the target VTS is displayed, as shown in FIG. 37B.

[0411] In the window 911, information about the location of the target VTS and a questionnaire about the target VTS are displayed.

[0412] In the questionnaire for the target VTS, the user can select whether or not the taxi 11 arrived at the target VTS as expected. If the user thinks the taxi 11 arrived as expected, the user can select the reason. For example, the user can select whether or not the location was accurate and whether or not the time was accurate. On the other hand, if the user thinks the taxi 11 did not arrive as expected, the user can select the reason. For example, the user can select whether or not the location was incorrect and whether or not the taxi did not arrive within the displayed time. The user can also freely input their opinion about the target VTS.

[0413] Then, when the “Please input” button is pressed, the information processing device 13 transmits VTS evaluation information indicating the evaluation of the target VTS input by the user to the cloud server 12 via the network 21 .

[0414] Fig. 38 shows a modified example of the questionnaire for the target VTS. For example, on the screen shown in Fig. 37B, a window 921 shown in Fig. 38 is displayed instead of the window 911.

[0415] In the window 921, information about the location of the target VTS and a questionnaire about the target VTS are displayed.

[0416] In the questionnaire for the target VTS, the user can select whether or not the taxi 11 was caught at the target VTS as expected. The user can also select whether or not the target VTS was in a convenient location. Furthermore, the user can select whether or not the time displayed for the target VTS (the predicted time the taxi 11 will pass) was appropriate. The user can also freely input their opinion about the target VTS.

[0417] Then, when the user presses the “Please input” button, the information processing device 13 transmits VTS evaluation information indicating the evaluation of the target VTS input by the user to the cloud server 12 via the network 21 .

[0418] In response to this, the ride recommendation information generation unit 122 of the cloud server 12 receives the VTS evaluation information via the network 21 and the communication unit 101. Then, the ride recommendation information generation unit 122 determines that an evaluation of the VTS has been received, and the process proceeds to step S502.

[0419] In step S502, the ride recommendation information generation unit 122 accumulates the evaluations of the VTS. Specifically, the ride recommendation information generation unit 122 adds the received VTS evaluation information to the ride recommendation information stored in the ride recommendation information DB 105.

[0420] In step S503, the ride recommendation information generation unit 122 determines whether to update the VTS. For example, if there is a VTS with the number of low ratings equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold, the ride recommendation information generation unit 122 determines to update the VTS, and the process proceeds to step S504.

[0421] In step S504, the ride recommendation information generation unit 122 updates the VTS. For example, the ride recommendation information generation unit 122 may abolish a VTS that has received a low rating, or move the VTS to a different unit link within the same link based on the ride recommendation score, etc. Then, the ride recommendation information generation unit 122 reflects the update of the VTS in the ride recommendation information stored in the ride recommendation information DB 105.

[0422] Then, the process proceeds to step S505.

[0423] On the other hand, in step S503, for example, if there is no VTS with the number of low ratings equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold, the ride recommendation information generation unit 122 determines not to update the VTS, skips the processing of step S504, and proceeds to step S505.

[0424] Also, if it is determined in step S501 that an evaluation on the VTS has not been received, the processes of steps S502 to S504 are skipped and the process proceeds to step S505.

[0425] In step S505, the ride recommendation information generator 122 determines whether or not installation of a VTS has been requested.

[0426] For example, a user can use the information processing device 13 to request the installation of a VTS.

[0427] Here, an example of a method for requesting addition of a VTS will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0428] FIG. 39 shows an example of a screen displayed on the information processing device 13 for inputting a request for installation of a VTS.

[0429] For example, a desired location for installing a VTS is designated on the VTS display screen as shown in A of Fig. 39. For example, a request icon R11 is displayed at the designated location.

[0430] Then, for example, when a predetermined operation is performed on the request icon R11, a window 941 is displayed as shown in FIG. 39B.

[0431] Information indicating the desired location for VTS installation is displayed in window 941. Also displayed is a button for selecting whether or not to transmit a request for VTS installation.

[0432] When the “Request” button is pressed, the information processing device 13 transmits VTS installation request information regarding a request for installation of a VTS to the cloud server 12 via the network 21 .

[0433] For example, a window 942 may be displayed instead of the window 941 in FIG. 39B.

[0434] Information indicating the desired location for installing the VTS is displayed in window 942. Also displayed is a field in which comments and the like regarding the desired VTS can be entered.

[0435] When the “Request” button is pressed, the information processing device 13 transmits VTS installation request information regarding a request for installation of a VTS to the cloud server 12 via the network 21 .

[0436] In response to this, the ride recommendation information generation unit 122 of the cloud server 12 receives the VTS installation request information via the network 21 and the communication unit 101. Then, the ride recommendation information generation unit 122 determines that installation of a VTS has been requested, and the process proceeds to step S506.

[0437] In step S506, the ride recommendation information generator 122 determines whether or not to install a VTS.

[0438] For example, the ride recommendation information generation unit 122 determines whether the location where the VTS is requested to be installed (hereinafter referred to as the requested location) satisfies specified conditions based on the ride recommendation information stored in the ride recommendation information DB 105.

[0439] For example, the ride recommendation information generation unit 122 determines whether or not the requested location is a location suitable for taking a taxi 11. For example, if the ride suitability score of the unit link corresponding to the requested location is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold, the ride recommendation information generation unit 122 determines that the requested location is a location suitable for taking a taxi 11. On the other hand, if the ride suitability score of the unit link corresponding to the requested location is less than the predetermined threshold, the ride recommendation information generation unit 122 determines that the requested location is not a location suitable for taking a taxi 11.

[0440] For example, the boarding recommendation information generator 122 determines whether or not there is another VTS near the request position. For example, if there is no other VTS within a predetermined distance from the request position on the same link as the request position, the boarding recommendation information generator 122 determines that there is no other VTS near the request position. On the other hand, if there is another VTS within a predetermined distance from the request position on the same link as the request position, the boarding recommendation information generator 122 determines that there is another VTS near the request position.

[0441] Then, for example, if the requested location is suitable for boarding a taxi 11 and there are no other VTSs near the requested location, the boarding recommendation information generation unit 122 determines that a VTS should be installed, and processing proceeds to step S507.

[0442] In step S507, the ride recommendation information generation unit 122 installs a VTS. Specifically, the ride recommendation information generation unit 122 adds information about the VTS to be newly installed at the requested location to the ride recommendation information stored in the ride recommendation information DB 105.

[0443] In step S508, the ride recommendation information generation unit 122 notifies the user of the installation of a VTS. Specifically, the ride recommendation information generation unit 122 generates information for notifying the user of the installation of a VTS and transmits the information to the information processing device 13 of the user who requested the installation of a VTS via the communication unit 101 and the network 21.

[0444] In response to this, the information processing device 13 notifies the user of the installation of the VTS.

[0445] For example, the information processing device 13 displays a window 961 shown in A of Fig. 41. The window 961 displays a message indicating that the installation of the VTS has been completed, the date and time when the installation of the VTS was requested, and information regarding the installation location of the VTS.

[0446] Alternatively, for example, the information processing device 13 displays the screen shown in FIG.

[0447] Specifically, for example, after a request for VTS installation is made on the screen B of Fig. 39 described above, the screen A of Fig. 42 is displayed. On the screen A of Fig. 42, a message 981 is displayed indicating that the supply forecast amount and the like are being measured at the location where the VTS installation has been requested (the location of the request icon R11 in A of Fig. 39).

[0448] After the VTS installation is complete, the screen shown in FIG. 42B is displayed. That is, a VTS icon V14 corresponding to the installed VTS is displayed at the requested position. Like the other VTS icons, the VTS icon V14 indicates the forecast supply amount.

[0449] Thereafter, the process returns to step S501, and the processes from step S501 onwards are executed.

[0450] On the other hand, in step S506, for example, if the requested location is not suitable for boarding a taxi 11 or if there is another VTS near the requested location, the boarding recommendation information generation unit 122 determines not to install a VTS, and processing proceeds to step S509.

[0451] In step S509, the ride recommendation information generation unit 122 notifies the user that the VTS cannot be installed. Specifically, the ride recommendation information generation unit 122 generates information for notifying the user that the VTS cannot be installed, and transmits the information to the information processing device 13 of the user who requested the VTS to be installed via the communication unit 101 and the network 21.

[0452] In response to this, the information processing device 13 notifies the user that the VTS cannot be installed.

[0453] For example, the information processing device 13 displays a window 962 shown in B of Fig. 41. The window 962 displays a message indicating that the VTS cannot be installed and the reason for this, the date and time when the VTS installation was requested, and information regarding the installation location of the VTS.

[0454] Thereafter, the process returns to step S501, and the processes from step S501 onwards are executed.

[0455] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S505 that installation of a VTS is not desired, the process returns to step S501, and the processes from step S501 onwards are executed.

[0456] In this way, by reflecting the opinions and requests of users, the convenience of the VTS is improved, making it easier for users to use the VTS.

[0457] Furthermore, by installing a VTS in a location that is convenient for the user, the user can easily know the waiting time for the taxi 11 at the location where the VTS is installed. This allows the user to easily determine, for example, whether it is better to hail a taxi 11 using the installed VTS or to call a taxi 11.

[0458] Furthermore, by installing the VTS, it is expected that drivers of taxis 11 will pass through the VTS, making it easier to hail a taxi 11.

[0459] It is also possible to limit the number of VTSs that a user can install. Furthermore, for example, a user may be charged depending on the number of VTSs installed. For example, up to three VTSs may be installed free of charge, and a charge may be incurred if four or more VTSs are installed.

[0460] <Method of providing ride recommendation information to other companies' services> For example, as shown in FIG. 43, ride recommendation information (ride suitability information, supply forecast information, recommended ride area information, VTS information) may be provided not only to the company's own service (e.g., a taxi dispatch service) but also to other companies' services.

[0461] For example, using an API (Application Programming Interface), ride recommendation information is provided to other companies' services and billing is performed.

[0462] The other company's services that provide ride recommendation information are not particularly limited, but examples thereof include map applications, transfer guide applications, and restaurant search applications.

[0463] The company's own services and other companies' services are used using the information processing device 13.

[0464] In this way, the user can quickly and easily ride in a cruising taxi 11, even in a place where the user is unfamiliar with the area. Furthermore, by using the cruising taxi 11, the user can save on pick-up fees.

[0465] In addition, since ride recommendation information (ride suitability information, supply forecast information, ride recommendation area information, VTS information) is generated without using ride history, ride recommendation information can be provided even in places where there is no past ride history.

[0466] Furthermore, by presenting the recommended boarding area, the user has more options for where to wait for the taxi 11.

[0467] Furthermore, since ride recommendation information is generated and presented without being based on past demand for taxis 11, competition with other users (i.e., congestion waiting for taxis) can be alleviated.

[0468] <<2. Modifications>> Modifications of the above-described embodiments of the present technology will now be described.

[0469] <Modifications Related to Riding Suitability Information> For example, the riding suitability information may be generated using video data other than video data captured by the taxi 11. For example, video data captured by a vehicle other than the taxi 11 or a camera installed on a road or the like may be used.

[0470] For example, the riding suitability information may be generated using image data other than video data (moving image data), i.e., still image data. For example, still image data taken by a camera installed in a vehicle such as the taxi 11 or on a road, or still image data provided by a service such as Street View may be used.

[0471] For example, the riding suitability information may be generated using information other than image data, such as map information or facility information indicating road configurations such as guardrails, roadside steps, intersections, and road signs.

[0472] Furthermore, the method of generating riding suitability information described above is just one example, and can be modified as appropriate.

[0473] For example, riding suitability information may be generated taking into consideration factors that may hinder riding in other taxis 11, such as construction sites and obstacles.

[0474] For example, riding suitability information may be generated using people flow data for each link in the map information. For example, roads that are impassable to people (e.g., expressways) may be extracted based on the people flow data, and riding suitability information may be generated based on the results.

[0475] <Modifications Related to Supply Forecast Information> For example, supply forecast information may be generated using the number of lanes of each link (road). For example, on roads with many lanes, it is difficult to catch a taxi 11 traveling in the inner lane. Therefore, the supply forecast amount may be corrected to be smaller for links corresponding to roads with many lanes.

[0476] <Other Modifications> For example, the present technology can be applied to transportation modes other than taxis that do not have a fixed boarding location (e.g., transportation modes that can pick up passengers as they move). Examples of such transportation modes include ride-sharing services and flying taxis. In this case, ride recommendation information indicating an appropriate location to wait for a transportation mode is generated, including, for example, boarding suitability information indicating the ease of boarding a transportation mode at each location and supply forecast information indicating the forecast supply of boardable transportation modes (equivalent to empty taxis) that can pick up new passengers at each location or on each road. Note that transportation modes that can pick up new passengers include not only transportation modes with no passengers, such as empty taxis, but also transportation modes that can pick up new passengers in addition to those already on board. Examples of such transportation modes include shared taxis that allow multiple passengers to board from multiple locations. Furthermore, for example, a virtual platform such as a virtual transport system (VTS) may be installed for the applicable transportation mode.

[0477] <<3. 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 computer includes a computer built into dedicated hardware, and a general-purpose personal computer, for example, that can execute various functions by installing various programs.

[0478] FIG. 44 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.

[0479] 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 .

[0480] 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.

[0481] 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.

[0482] 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.

[0483] 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.

[0484] 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.

[0485] 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.

[0486] 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.

[0487] 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.

[0488] 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.

[0489] 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.

[0490] 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.

[0491] <Examples of Combinations of Configurations> The present technology can also have the following configurations.

[0492] (1) An information processing device comprising: a boarding suitability information generation unit that generates boarding recommendation information including boarding suitability information for a transportation facility that does not have a fixed boarding location and supply forecast information for the transportation facility. (2) The information processing device described in (1), wherein the boarding recommendation information generation unit sets up a virtual boarding stop for the transportation facility based on the boarding suitability information and the supply forecast information. (3) The information processing device described in (2), wherein the boarding recommendation information indicates a boarding recommendation level that is a degree of suitability for waiting for the transportation facility at each point, and the boarding recommendation information generation unit sets up the virtual boarding stop based on the boarding recommendation level for each point. (4) The information processing device described in (3), wherein the boarding suitability information indicates a boarding suitability that is a degree of ease of boarding the transportation facility at each point, and the supply forecast information indicates a forecast supply volume of the transportation facility at each point, and the boarding recommendation information generation unit calculates the boarding recommendation level based on the boarding suitability and the forecast supply volume for each point. (5) The information processing device according to any one of (2) to (4), wherein the boarding recommendation information generation unit limits the installation interval or the number of the virtual boarding stops in each link of map information. (6) The information processing device according to any one of (2) to (5), wherein the boarding recommendation information generation unit performs at least one of installing, moving, and abolishing the virtual boarding stop based on at least one of a user's evaluation of the virtual boarding stop and a request for installation of the virtual boarding stop. (7) The information processing device according to any one of (2) to (6), further comprising: an advertisement management unit that generates advertisement information corresponding to the virtual boarding stop. (8) The information processing device according to (7), further comprising: a presentation control unit that controls presentation of the virtual boarding stop and the advertisement information in other information processing devices. (9) The information processing device according to any one of (1) to (8), wherein the boarding suitability information indicates the ease of boarding the transportation facility at each point. (10) The information processing device according to (9), wherein the riding recommendation information generation unit generates the riding suitability information based on at least one of image data of a road's surroundings, map information, and road facility information.(11) The information processing device according to (10), wherein the riding recommendation information generation unit generates the riding suitability information based on at least one of no parking and stopping areas, no pedestrian entry areas, guardrails, roadside steps, the width of available parking spaces, and the width of sidewalk spaces. (12) The information processing device according to (10) or (11), wherein the image data is captured by the transportation facility. (13) The information processing device according to any of (1) to (12), wherein the supply forecast information indicates a supply forecast amount at each point of available transportation facilities that are the transportation facilities that can pick up new passengers. (14) The information processing device according to (13), wherein the riding recommendation information generation unit generates the supply forecast information based on movement data of the available transportation facilities. (15) The information processing device according to (13) or (14), wherein the riding recommendation information generation unit generates the supply forecast information for at least one condition of year, month, day, day of the week, whether it is a holiday or not, time period, weather, and temperature. (16) The information processing device according to any of (1) to (15), wherein the ride recommendation information indicates a suitable location for waiting for the transportation facility. (17) The information processing device according to any of (1) to (16), further comprising: a presentation control unit that controls presentation of the ride recommendation information in another information processing device. (18) The information processing device according to any of (1) to (17), wherein the transportation facility is a taxi. (19) An information processing method in which an information processing device generates ride recommendation information including ride suitability information for transportation facilities with no fixed boarding location and supply forecast information for the transportation facility. (20) An information processing device comprising: an output control unit that controls display on a map of ride recommendation information including ride suitability information for transportation facilities with no fixed boarding location and supply forecast information for the transportation facility. (21) The information processing device according to (20), wherein the output control unit controls display on the map of virtual stops for the transportation facilities that have been set up based on the ride suitability information and the supply forecast information. (22) The information processing device according to (21), wherein the supply forecast information indicates a supply forecast amount at each point of boardable transportation means that are the transportation means that can newly board passengers.(23) The information processing device according to (22), wherein the output control unit controls display of the forecast supply amount at the virtual platform. (24) The information processing device according to (22) or (23), wherein the output control unit controls notification of the approach of the boardable transportation means to the virtual platform. (25) The information processing device according to any of (22) to (24), wherein the output control unit controls display of the position of the boardable transportation means on the map. (26) The information processing device according to any of (21) to (25), wherein the output control unit controls display of the virtual platform suitable for a specified destination. (27) The information processing device according to any of (21) to (26), wherein the output control unit controls display of advertising information corresponding to the virtual platform. (28) The information processing device according to any of (21) to (27), wherein the output control unit controls display of an input screen for rating the virtual platform. (29) The information processing device according to any one of (21) to (28), wherein the output control unit controls the display of an input screen for requests for installation of the virtual stop. (30) The information processing device according to any one of (20) to (29), wherein the output control unit controls the display of at least one of the riding suitability information and the supply forecast information on the map. (31) The information processing device according to (30), wherein the riding suitability information indicates riding suitability, which is the ease of boarding the transportation means at each point, and the output control unit changes the display mode of roads on the map based on the riding suitability of each point. (32) The information processing device according to (31), wherein the output control unit controls the display of areas on the map where the riding suitability satisfies a specified condition. (33) The information processing device according to any one of (30) to (32), wherein the supply forecast information indicates a forecast supply volume of the transportation means at each point, and the output control unit changes the display mode of roads on the map based on the forecast supply volume of each point. (34) The information processing device according to (33), wherein the output control unit controls display of an area on the map in which the forecasted supply amount satisfies a specified condition.(35) The information processing device according to any of (20) to (34), wherein the output control unit controls display on the map of recommended boarding area information that combines the boarding suitability information and the supply forecast information. (36) The information processing device according to any of (20) to (35), wherein the boarding suitability information indicates the ease of boarding the transportation means at each point, the supply forecast information indicates a forecast supply volume at each point of boardable transportation means that are the transportation means that can pick up new passengers, and the boarding recommendation information indicates a suitable location to wait for the transportation means. (37) The information processing device according to (20) to (36), wherein the transportation means is a taxi. (38) An information processing method, wherein an information processing device controls display on a map of boarding suitability information for transportation means that do not have a fixed boarding location, and boarding recommendation information that includes supply forecast information for the transportation means.

[0493] The effects described in this specification are merely examples and are not limiting, and other effects may also be present.

[0494] REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 1 Information processing system, 11-1 to 11-m Taxi, 12 Cloud server, 13-1 to 13-n Information processing device, 102 Control unit, 121 Probe data generation unit, 122 Ride recommendation information generation unit, 123 Advertising management unit, 124 Vehicle dispatch management unit, 125 Ride history management unit, 126 Presentation control unit, 201 Control unit, 203 Display unit, 204 Audio output unit, 205 Haptic device, 221 Calculation unit, 222 Information generation unit, 223 Output control unit

Claims

1. An information processing device having a boarding recommendation information generation unit that generates boarding suitability information for a transportation facility that does not have a fixed boarding location, and boarding recommendation information including supply forecast information for the transportation facility.

2. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein the boarding recommendation information generating unit sets up a virtual boarding station for the transportation facility based on the boarding suitability information and the supply forecast information.

3. The information processing device described in claim 2, wherein the boarding recommendation information indicates a boarding recommendation level, which is the degree of suitability of waiting for the transportation facility at each point, and the boarding recommendation information generation unit sets up the virtual boarding stop based on the boarding recommendation level at each point.

4. The information processing device described in claim 3, wherein the boarding suitability information indicates a boarding suitability, which is the ease of boarding the transportation means at each point, the supply forecast information indicates a forecast supply volume of the transportation means at each point, and the boarding recommendation information generation unit calculates the boarding recommendation degree based on the boarding suitability and the forecast supply volume at each point.

5. The information processing device according to claim 2, wherein the boarding recommendation information generating unit limits the installation interval or the installation number of the virtual boarding stations for each link of the map information.

6. The information processing device according to claim 2, wherein the boarding recommendation information generation unit executes at least one of setting up, moving, and abolishing the virtual boarding stop based on at least one of a user's evaluation of the virtual boarding stop and a request for the establishment of the virtual boarding stop.

7. The information processing device according to claim 2, further comprising an advertisement management unit that generates advertisement information corresponding to the virtual boarding area.

8. The information processing device according to claim 7, further comprising a presentation control unit that controls the presentation of the virtual platform and the advertising information in another information processing device.

9. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein the boarding suitability information indicates the ease of boarding the transportation means at each point.

10. The information processing device according to claim 9, wherein the riding recommendation information generating unit generates the riding suitability information based on at least one of image data captured around the road, map information, and road facility information.

11. The information processing device according to claim 10, wherein the riding recommendation information generation unit generates the riding suitability information based on at least one of no parking or stopping areas, no pedestrian entry areas, guard rails, steps on the roadside, the size of the space available for parking or stopping, and the size of the space on the sidewalk side.

12. The information processing device according to claim 10, wherein the image data is captured by the means of transportation.

13. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein the supply forecast information indicates a supply forecast amount at each point of boarding available transportation means, which is the transportation means capable of carrying new passengers.

14. The information processing device according to claim 13, wherein the boarding recommendation information generating unit generates the supply forecast information based on status data of the boardable transportation means.

15. The information processing device according to claim 13, wherein the ride recommendation information generation unit generates the supply forecast information for at least one condition among year, month, date, day of the week, whether it is a holiday or not, time period, weather, and temperature.

16. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein the boarding recommendation information indicates a suitable location for waiting for the transportation facility.

17. The information processing device according to claim 1, further comprising a presentation control unit that controls the presentation of the ride recommendation information in another information processing device.

18. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein the means of transportation is a taxi.

19. An information processing method in which an information processing device generates boarding suitability information for a transportation facility that does not have a fixed boarding location, and boarding recommendation information including supply forecast information for the transportation facility.

20. An information processing device having an output control unit that controls the display on a map of boarding suitability information for transportation facilities that do not have fixed boarding locations, and boarding recommendation information including supply forecast information for the transportation facilities.

21. The information processing device according to claim 20, wherein the output control unit controls the display on the map of virtual stops for the transportation means that have been established based on the riding suitability information and the supply forecast information.

22. The information processing device according to claim 21, wherein the supply forecast information indicates a supply forecast amount at each point of boarding available transportation means, which is the transportation means capable of carrying new passengers.

23. The information processing device according to claim 22, wherein the output control unit controls display of the forecast supply amount at the virtual boarding area.

24. The information processing device according to claim 22, wherein the output control unit controls a notification of the approach of the boardable transportation means to the virtual boarding point.

25. The information processing device according to claim 22, wherein the output control unit controls displaying the positions of the boardable transportation means on the map.

26. The information processing device according to claim 21, wherein the output control unit controls the display of the virtual platform suitable for a specified destination.

27. The information processing device according to claim 21, wherein the output control unit controls the display of advertising information corresponding to the virtual boarding area.

28. The information processing device according to claim 21, wherein the output control unit controls the display of an input screen for an evaluation of the virtual boarding area.

29. The information processing device according to claim 21, wherein the output control unit controls the display of an input screen for requesting installation of the virtual boarding area.

30. The information processing device according to claim 20, wherein the output control unit controls the display of at least one of the riding suitability information and the supply forecast information on the map.

31. The information processing device described in claim 30, wherein the riding suitability information indicates a riding suitability that is the ease of boarding the transportation means at each point, and the output control unit changes the display mode of roads on the map based on the riding suitability at each point.

32. The information processing device according to claim 31, wherein the output control unit controls display of areas on the map in which the riding suitability satisfies a specified condition.

33. The information processing device according to claim 30, wherein the supply forecast information indicates a forecast supply volume of the transportation facility at each point, and the output control unit changes the display mode of roads on the map based on the forecast supply volume at each point.

34. The information processing device according to claim 33, wherein the output control unit controls display of areas on the map in which the supply forecast amount satisfies a specified condition.

35. The information processing device according to claim 20, wherein the output control unit controls the display on the map of recommended riding area information that combines the riding suitability information and the supply forecast information.

36. The information processing device of claim 20, wherein the boarding suitability information indicates the ease of boarding the transportation means at each point, the supply forecast information indicates the supply forecast amount at each point of boardable transportation means that are the transportation means that can carry new passengers, and the boarding recommendation information indicates a suitable location to wait for the transportation means.

37. The information processing device according to claim 20, wherein the means of transportation is a taxi.

38. An information processing method in which an information processing device controls the display on a map of boarding suitability information for transportation modes that do not have a fixed boarding location, and boarding recommendation information including supply forecast information for the transportation modes.

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