Information processing method, information processing system, and program

Abstract

According to the present invention, an information processing method that is to be executed by a computer involves reading out a remaining amount of environmental value related to power that can be consumed when a mobile body moves (S100), acquiring start time information that indicates a start time for a switch from another mode to a usage mode in which environmental value is used for movement of the mobile body (S101), and subtracting a usage amount for environmental value that corresponds to the amount of power consumed by the movement of the mobile body after the start time indicated by the acquired start time information from the read-out remaining amount of environmental value (S107).

Description

Information Processing Method, Information Processing System, and Program

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

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a value certification system and the like for appropriately evaluating and certifying an environmental value according to when, where, who, and by what power generation method the power flowing in the power transaction related to renewable energy is generated.

[0003] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2022-151174

[0004] The present disclosure provides an information processing method and the like in which the environmental value can be more appropriately used with respect to the environmental value as described above.

[0005] An information processing method according to an aspect of the present disclosure is an information processing method executed by a computer, which reads out the remaining amount of an environmental value related to the power that can be consumed when a moving body moves, and obtains start time information indicating a start time point of switching from another mode to a usage mode in which the moving body moves using the environmental value, and subtracts an amount of the environmental value used corresponding to the amount of power consumed in the movement of the moving body after the start time point indicated by the obtained start time information from the read remaining amount of the environmental value.

[0006] Further, an information processing system according to an aspect of the present disclosure includes a processor and a memory, and the processor uses the memory to read out the remaining amount of an environmental value related to the power that can be consumed when a moving body moves, obtains start time information indicating a start time point of switching from another mode to a usage mode in which the moving body moves using the environmental value, and subtracts an amount of the environmental value used corresponding to the amount of power consumed in the movement of the moving body after the start time point indicated by the obtained start time information from the read remaining amount of the environmental value.

[0007] These comprehensive or specific embodiments may be implemented as a system, device, integrated circuit, computer program, or recording medium such as a computer-readable CD-ROM, or as any combination of a system, device, integrated circuit, computer program, and recording medium.

[0008] This disclosure makes it easier to use environmental values ​​more appropriately.

[0009] Figure 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an information processing system according to an embodiment. Figure 2 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a user terminal according to an embodiment. Figure 3 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a node according to an embodiment. Figure 4 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an information processing server according to an embodiment. Figure 5 is a sequence diagram showing an example of information processing of an information processing system according to an embodiment. Figure 6 is a sequence diagram showing an example of information processing of an information processing system according to an embodiment. Figure 7 is a sequence diagram showing an example of information processing of an information processing system according to an embodiment. Figure 8 is a sequence diagram showing an example of information processing of an information processing system according to an embodiment. Figure 9 is an explanatory diagram showing transaction data related to the execution of a smart contract. Figure 10 is an explanatory diagram showing the processing related to the execution of a smart contract. Figure 11 is an explanatory diagram showing the data structure of a blockchain. Figure 12 is an explanatory diagram showing the data structure of transaction data.

[0010] (Knowledge forming the basis of this disclosure) In recent years, there has been an increasing number of cases in which power generation methods that use non-fossil energy instead of fossil energy are being adopted. Power generation methods that use non-fossil energy do not produce carbon dioxide during power generation and are said to have a lower environmental impact compared to power generation methods that use fossil energy.

[0011] In recent years, greenhouse gas emissions have been rapidly increasing in conjunction with human social activities, contributing to global warming. Therefore, measures to reduce emissions of greenhouse gases, primarily carbon dioxide, are urgently needed.

[0012] The Paris Agreement, adopted at the 2015 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP21) and entered into force in 2016, internationally agreed to achieve "net-zero" emissions (a balanced state of greenhouse gas emissions and removals) by 2050. Carbon credits are attracting attention as one means of achieving this net-zero goal.

[0013] Carbon credits are a system in which organizations such as environmental companies issue credits representing the reduction (reduction amount, absorption amount) of greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide generated by forest conservation or afforestation, or the introduction of energy-saving equipment, and make them tradable with general companies and other organizations. Environmental companies are the entities that create carbon credits, and general companies are the entities that utilize carbon credits. The organizations referred to here include companies, businesses, associations, local governments (e.g., local municipalities), and NPOs (Non-Profit Organizations) that are engaged in environmental contributions, but any other organization engaged in environmental contributions may also be included.

[0014] Carbon credit schemes include the government-led (Japan) J-Credit and the privately-led Voluntary Credit. As mentioned above, carbon credits are environmental value generated in proportion to the amount of electricity generated when power generation methods using non-fossil energy are employed. In other words, environmental value can be defined as the amount of environmental contribution based on not emitting carbon dioxide when generating electricity. It should be noted that environmental value may also include the amount of environmental contribution based on not emitting greenhouse gases other than carbon dioxide, not just carbon dioxide.

[0015] The amount of electricity generated from non-fossil fuels and the amount of environmental value (contribution) correspond to the amount of environmental value that would result if the amount of carbon dioxide generated when that electricity was produced using fossil fuels were reduced. In other words, by using the amount of electricity corresponding to the amount of environmental value used, the amount of carbon dioxide consumed is reduced by the amount of electricity consumed, so the amount of carbon dioxide generated by electricity consumption can be offset and considered to be zero.

[0016] As the concept of carbon credits, as described above, becomes more widespread, some organizations, such as private companies, are making social contributions by using an amount of carbon credits corresponding to the amount of electricity they consume in their activities, thereby effectively achieving zero emissions of greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide generated by their activities. Alternatively, there are initiatives that mandate such social contributions for some private companies.

[0017] In this context, one activity that involves electricity consumption is the use of power-consuming mobile vehicles for commuting and freight transport. However, the inventors of this invention have found that activities using mobile vehicles can be a mix of activities conducted by organizations such as general companies to which users belong, and private activities of users, and that these have not been distinguished in the past.

[0018] Therefore, this disclosure describes information processing methods that allow for the appropriate use of environmental value by separating the user's private activities from the activities of the organization to which the user belongs, such as a general company.

[0019] An information processing method relating to a first aspect of this disclosure is an information processing method performed by a computer, which includes reading out the remaining amount of environmental value related to the electricity that can be consumed when a mobile body is moving, obtaining start time information indicating the start time of switching from another mode to a usage mode in which the mobile body is moved using environmental value, and subtracting from the read-out remaining amount of environmental value the amount of environmental value used in the movement of the mobile body after the start time indicated in the obtained start time information, corresponding to the amount of electricity consumed in the movement of the mobile body after the start time.

[0020] According to this, by acquiring the point in time when environmental value should be used as start time information, the remaining amount of environmental value can be subtracted so that it is used for electricity consumption from the start time indicated in that start time information onward. This makes it possible to move a mobile object by consuming electricity without using environmental value before the start time, and to associate electricity consumption with the use of environmental value only from the start time onward. In other words, it is possible to appropriately use environmental value by separating the movement of a user's private mobile object before the start time from the movement of a mobile object of an organization such as a general company to which the user belongs from the start time onward.

[0021] The information processing method relating to the second aspect of this disclosure is the information processing method described in the first aspect, wherein the information processing method further acquires termination information indicating the end of the switch from another mode to the usage mode, and the amount of environmental value used is an amount corresponding to the amount of electricity consumed by the movement of the mobile body after the start time indicated in the acquired start time information and before the termination time indicated in the acquired termination information.

[0022] According to this, the remaining amount of environmental value can be subtracted so that the environmental value is used for electricity consumption after the start time information and before the end time information.

[0023] An information processing method relating to a third aspect of this disclosure is an information processing method according to the first or second aspect, wherein the information processing method further outputs presentation information to indicate to the user of the mobile body that it is moving in use mode.

[0024] According to this, the displayed information can inform the user of the mobile device that it is moving in the usage mode. In other words, the user can move the mobile device after recognizing that it is moving in the usage mode based on this information.

[0025] The information processing method relating to the fourth aspect of this disclosure is the information processing method described in any of the first to third aspects, wherein the information processing method further outputs presentation information for presenting the remaining amount of environmental value to the user of the mobile device.

[0026] According to this, the displayed information can be used to show the user of the mobile vehicle the remaining amount of environmental value. In other words, the user can operate the mobile vehicle while being aware of the remaining amount of environmental value based on this display.

[0027] The information processing method relating to the fifth aspect of this disclosure is the information processing method described in any of the first to fourth aspects, wherein the information processing method further outputs presentation information for presenting to a mobile user a route in which the amount of environmental value used is reduced compared to other routes.

[0028] According to this, the outputted information can be used to present users of mobile vehicles with routes that use less environmental value than other routes. In other words, users can use this information to navigate their vehicles while recognizing routes that use less environmental value than other routes. This means that users can benefit from being more likely to choose routes that use less environmental value than other routes.

[0029] The information processing method relating to the sixth aspect of this disclosure is the information processing method described in any of the first to fifth aspects, wherein, when the amount of environmental value used is greater than the remaining amount of environmental value read out, the remaining amount of environmental value read out is increased in exchange for payment of a fee.

[0030] According to this, if the amount of environmental value used exceeds the remaining amount of environmental value read out, the remaining amount of environmental value can be increased by paying a fee. For example, the difference between the remaining amount of environmental value read out and the amount of environmental value used can be compensated for by paying a fee.

[0031] The information processing method relating to the seventh aspect of this disclosure is the information processing method described in the sixth aspect, wherein the information processing method further outputs presentation information for obtaining approval from the user of the mobile device when the amount of environmental value used is greater than the remaining amount of environmental value read out, and increases the remaining amount of environmental value read out in exchange for payment of a fee when the user's approval of the output presentation information is obtained.

[0032] According to this, if the amount of environmental value used exceeds the remaining amount of environmental value read out, the remaining amount of environmental value can be increased by payment, subject to user approval.

[0033] The information processing method relating to the eighth aspect of this disclosure is the information processing method described in any of the first to seventh aspects, wherein the computer manages a distributed ledger, and the information processing method further stores information indicating the remaining amount of environmental value in the mobile body in the distributed ledger.

[0034] According to this, information indicating the remaining environmental value of a mobile object can be stored and managed in a distributed ledger.

[0035] An information processing method relating to the ninth aspect of this disclosure is an information processing method described in any of the first to eighth aspects, wherein the computer manages a distributed ledger, and the information processing method further stores in the distributed ledger information relating to the movement of a mobile object in use mode and information of a certificate proving that the object was moved only in use mode.

[0036] According to this, information regarding the movement of a mobile device in its operating mode and information from a certificate proving that it moved only in its operating mode can be stored and managed in a distributed ledger.

[0037] An information processing system according to a tenth aspect of the present disclosure comprises a processor and a memory, wherein the processor uses the memory to read out the remaining amount of environmental value related to the power that can be consumed when a mobile body is in motion, obtains start time information indicating the start time of switching from another mode to a usage mode in which the mobile body is moved using environmental value, and subtracts from the read-out remaining amount of environmental value the amount of environmental value used in the movement of the mobile body after the start time indicated in the obtained start time information, corresponding to the amount of power consumed in the movement of the mobile body after the start time.

[0038] According to this, the same effect as the information processing method described above will be achieved.

[0039] A program relating to the eleventh aspect of this disclosure is a program that causes a computer to execute an information processing method relating to any of the first to ninth aspects.

[0040] The embodiments will be described below with reference to the drawings. Note that the embodiments described below are all specific examples of this disclosure. In other words, the numerical values, shapes, materials, components, arrangement and connection configurations of components, steps, and the order of steps shown in the following embodiments are examples and are not intended to limit this disclosure. Furthermore, components in the following embodiments that are not described in the independent claims are not necessarily required to achieve the objectives of this disclosure, but are described as components that constitute a more preferable configuration.

[0041] In the following explanation, we will use electric vehicles or hybrid vehicles, which consume electricity during movement, as examples of mobile objects. However, the mobile object can be any object that consumes electricity during movement, such as electric aircraft or electric ships. Furthermore, it is not necessary for an operator to be on board the mobile object; for example, it could be a remotely operated or autonomous mobile drone. The mobile object may include a motor or the like that provides power, drive units such as wheels or propellers driven by the motor, and a functional unit that stores a power source (e.g., electricity) to operate the power.

[0042] (Embodiment) [1. Information Processing System] First, the system configuration related to this disclosure will be described using Figures 1 to 4. Figure 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an information processing system according to an embodiment.

[0043] As shown in Figure 1, the information processing system 1 according to this embodiment includes, for example, a user terminal 100 operated by a user, a blockchain system 200, and an information processing server 300. These are connected by a network N. Network N may be, for example, the internet or a mobile phone carrier network, but can be composed of any communication line or network. The information processing system 1 may include an environmental value trading market, which is not shown. The environmental value trading market will be described later along with the information processing server 300.

[0044] [User Terminal 100] The user terminal 100 will be described below. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the user terminal according to the embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the user terminal 100 is realized by either a terminal mounted on the mobile body itself or an information terminal carried by the user. When the user terminal 100 is mounted on a mobile body, it is realized by being incorporated into a device within the mobile body that has an interface through which input from the user is possible, such as an instrument panel or an infotainment system of the mobile body, and a car navigation system. Further, when the user terminal 100 is a portable information terminal, by installing a predetermined application on a general-purpose information terminal such as a smartphone, a tablet terminal, or a PC, the functions as the user terminal 100 are executed by the processor and memory provided in the general-purpose information terminal. Note that the user terminal 100 may be operated by the user at a remote location as in the example of the above drone. That is, the user terminal 100 does not necessarily have to be mounted on a mobile body.

[0045] As shown in FIG. 2, the user terminal 100 includes a communication unit 401, a charge amount measurement unit 402, a consumption amount measurement unit 403, a start time input unit 404, an end time input unit 405, a presentation unit 406, and an approval input unit 407.

[0046] The communication unit 401 exchanges information with other devices via the network N. This communication may be performed by TLS (Transport Layer Security), and the encryption key for TLS communication may be held by the communication unit 401.

[0047] The charge amount measurement unit 402 measures the power that can be consumed by the mobile body, that is, the amount of power charged to the battery of the mobile body. The charge amount measurement unit 402 measures the power flowing through the path from the charging port of the mobile body to the battery and measures the amount of power used for charging. At this time, if the power used for charging is power generated by non-fossil energy, an environmental value corresponding to the amount of power stored in the mobile body is given upon charging. That is, if it is ensured that the power is generated by non-fossil energy, the remaining amount of environmental value is added to the mobile body according to the charge amount measured by the charge amount measurement unit 402.

[0048] The power consumption measurement unit 403 measures the power consumed by the moving body as it moves, that is, the amount of power consumed by the drive system. The power consumption measurement unit 403 measures the power flowing through the path from the storage battery of the moving body to the drive system and measures the amount of power consumed. At this time, when using environmental value to consume power, the environmental value of the moving body is used along with the consumption. That is, in the usage mode of using environmental value, according to the consumption measured by the power consumption measurement unit 403, the remaining amount of the environmental value of the moving body is subtracted.

[0049] The start time input unit 404 receives an input from the user specifying the start time of the usage mode of using environmental value. The start time input unit 404, for example, receives a touch of a digital button displayed on a touch display of the user terminal 100 or an operation of a button physically provided on the user terminal 100, records that time as the start time, and generates start time information indicating the start time. Alternatively, the start time input unit 404 may receive an input of the time specifying the start time, record the start time afterwards, and generate start time information. Or, alternatively, the start time input unit 404 may receive a designation of a point on the map, automatically record the time when passing through that point as the start time, and generate start time information.

[0050] The end time input unit 405 receives an input from the user specifying the end time of the usage mode of using environmental value. The end time input unit 405, for example, receives a touch of a digital button displayed on a touch display of the user terminal 100 or an operation of a button physically provided on the user terminal 100, records that time as the end time, and generates end time information indicating the end time. Alternatively, the end time input unit 405 may receive an input of the time specifying the end time, record the end time afterwards, and generate end time information. Or, alternatively, the end time input unit 405 may receive a designation of a point on the map, automatically record the time when passing through that point as the end time, and generate end time information.

[0051] The presentation unit 406 presents information to the user from the information processing system 1, particularly the information processing server 300. The presentation unit 406 is implemented, for example, using the display function of a touch display, and presents the information by displaying it as an image on the display. Alternatively, since it is sufficient for the user to recognize the content of the information, the presentation unit 406 may present the information by playing the audio of the information through a speaker.

[0052] The approval input unit 407 receives input from the user regarding their approval of purchasing environmental value. The approval input unit 407 receives, for example, a touch of a digital button displayed on the touch display of the user terminal 100, or an operation of a button physically provided on the user terminal 100, and generates approval information indicating that the user's approval has been obtained.

[0053] [Blockchain System 200] The blockchain system 200 comprises nodes 200a to 200c that are connected to each other in a communicative manner. The blockchain system 200 manages a blockchain composed of blocks containing arbitrary data. The arbitrary data may include, for example, data containing FTs (Fungible Tokens), data containing NFTs (Non-Fungible Tokens), or other data. The arbitrary data may include user-related privacy information (e.g., the user's personal information). FTs are information in which countless equivalent data exist and are interchangeable with each other, such as environmental value. In this embodiment, the remaining amount of environmental value is stored and managed in a distributed ledger using, for example, FTs. NFTs can prove, for example, the uniqueness of digital content or the owner of digital content. In this embodiment, a certificate proving that something was moved only in usage mode is stored and managed in a distributed ledger using, for example, NFTs.

[0054] Figure 3 shows an example of the node configuration according to the embodiment.

[0055] Each of the nodes 200a to 200c comprises a communication unit 201, a control unit 202, a recording unit 203, a transaction data verification unit 204, and a distributed ledger 205, as shown in Figure 3. Nodes 200a to 200c manage the blockchain.

[0056] The communication unit 201 transmits information to the information processing server 300 or to other nodes among nodes 200a to 200c via the network N, and receives information from the information processing server 300 or other nodes. "Other nodes" refers to nodes 200a to 200c that are different from the node equipped with the communication unit 201. The communication unit 201 also transmits and receives transaction data with the other nodes 200a to 200c.

[0057] In this manner, the communication unit 201 communicates with the information processing server 300 or other nodes via the network N. This communication may also be performed using TLS, and the encryption key for TLS communication may be held by the communication unit 201.

[0058] The control unit 202 executes a consensus algorithm on the transaction data received by the communication unit 201. As a result, the control unit 202 stores the transaction data in the distributed ledger 205. The control unit 202 stores the information contained in the transaction data in the blockchain of the distributed ledger 205, for example, by linking the block containing the transaction data to the blockchain of the distributed ledger 205.

[0059] Furthermore, if the information received by the communication unit 201 is a request to issue an NFT, the control unit 202 may generate transaction data for generating the NFT and store the transaction data in the distributed ledger 205 to generate the NFT. In this case, a block containing the transaction data related to the generation of the NFT is added to the blockchain. For example, in the case of an NFT corresponding to content, when the communication unit 201 receives a request to issue an NFT, it generates transaction data for generating the NFT corresponding to the content based on the address (URL1) included in the request and stores it in the blockchain. The smart contract records a set of transaction data linking the address included in the request, the NFT ID generated by the smart contract, and the initially set owner in the blockchain ledger, and the NFT is generated. The transaction data related to the generation of the NFT may include other information. Other information may include, for example, the date and time the content was created, or information about other content that was used as material to create the content.

[0060] The transaction data verification unit 204 verifies the validity of the transaction data when the communication unit 201 receives it. For example, the transaction data verification unit 204 verifies whether the transaction data received by the communication unit 201 has a digitally signed signature generated in the correct manner. If the validity is verified, the communication unit 201 sends a copy of the transaction data to several other nodes 200a to 200c, causing the verified authenticated transaction data to be recorded in the recording units 203 of the other nodes 200a to 200c. This ensures that only transaction data whose validity has been verified is sent to other servers, thereby suppressing an increase in the computer's power consumption. Note that this verification may be skipped.

[0061] Furthermore, the transaction data verification unit 204, together with several other nodes 200a to 200c, executes a consensus algorithm to agree on the validity of the transaction data.

[0062] Here, the consensus algorithm may be PBFT (Practical Bynantine Fault Tolerance) or other known consensus algorithms. Examples of known consensus algorithms include PoW (Proof of Work) or PoS (Proof of Stake). When PBFT is used as the consensus algorithm, the transaction data verification unit 204 receives reports from each of the multiple nodes 200a to 200c indicating whether the verification of the transaction data was successful or not, and determines whether the number of such reports exceeds a predetermined number. Then, when the number of such reports exceeds the predetermined number, the transaction data verification unit 204 determines that the validity of the transaction data has been verified by the consensus algorithm.

[0063] The transaction data verification unit 204, if it confirms the validity of the transaction data, causes the recording unit 203 to record the transaction data. If the transaction data verification unit 204 cannot verify the validity of the transaction data, it discards the transaction data. As a result, transaction data that cannot be verified for validity is not recorded in the recording unit 203, thus reducing the amount of computer resources required. The transaction data verification unit 204 may also generate a block containing the transaction data whose validity has been confirmed and store the generated block in the distributed ledger 205.

[0064] In this embodiment, the transaction data verification unit 204 verifies the validity of the transaction data received by the communication unit 201.

[0065] Furthermore, the recording unit 203 records transaction data by storing the transaction data whose legitimacy has been verified by the transaction data verification unit 204 in the distributed ledger 205. This helps to prevent tampering with transaction data.

[0066] The recording unit 203 may be configured inside the distributed ledger 205.

[0067] The distributed ledger 205 stores transaction data. Because the distributed ledger 205 sequentially retrieves and stores transaction data, it stores one or more transaction data entries. The distributed ledger 205 is implemented using storage.

[0068] [Information Processing Server 300] Next, the information processing server 300 will be described. Figure 4 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the information processing server according to the embodiment.

[0069] The information processing server 300 is a server device (i.e., a computer in a broad sense) built as a cloud server or edge server. The information processing server 300 is equipped with a processor and memory, and by having the processor execute programs stored in memory, it primarily performs processing to manage the remaining amount of environmental value of mobile objects and processing to issue certificates that prove that movement was carried out only in use mode. The information processing server 300 also stores information in a distributed ledger 205 managed in the blockchain system 200. Here, we describe an information processing server 300 that is independent of the nodes 200a to 200c of the blockchain system 200. As described above, since the information processing server 300 stores information in the distributed ledger 205 of the blockchain system 200 which is connected via the network N, it can be considered to be managing the distributed ledger 205 over the network. Alternatively, the information processing server 300 itself may have (manage) one of the distributed ledgers and function as one of the nodes of the blockchain system 200. In that case, the information processing server 300 has the functions of the above processing in addition to the functions of nodes 200a to 200c.

[0070] The information processing server 300 includes a communication unit 501, an acquisition unit 502, a mode switching unit 503, an environmental value management unit 504, a purchase processing unit 505, and an output unit 506.

[0071] The communication unit 501 exchanges information with other devices via the network N. This communication may be performed using TLS, and the encryption key for TLS communication may be held by the communication unit 501.

[0072] The acquisition unit 502 acquires information from the user terminal 100 via the communication unit 501. For example, the acquisition unit 502 acquires the charge amount measured by the charge amount measurement unit 402, the consumption amount measured by the consumption amount measurement unit 403, the start time information generated by the start time input unit 404, the end time information generated by the end time input unit 405, and the approval information generated by the approval input unit 407.

[0073] The mode switching unit 503 switches the period from the start time indicated in the start time information to the end time indicated in the end time information to the usage mode that uses environmental value, and switches the other period to the non-usage mode (an example of another mode) that does not use environmental value.

[0074] The environmental value management unit 504 subtracts the remaining environmental value of the mobile device in proportion to the amount consumed during movement while the device is in use mode. Furthermore, regardless of the mode switching status, the environmental value management unit 504 adds to the remaining environmental value of the mobile device in proportion to the amount of charge that has been charged. Additionally, regardless of the mode switching status, the environmental value management unit 504 adds to the remaining environmental value of the mobile device in proportion to the amount of environmental value purchased.

[0075] The purchase processing unit 505 sends a purchase request to the environmental value trading market and purchases environmental value circulating in the market in exchange for payment of fees. Payment of fees may be made on a case-by-case basis, or at the end of each period, such as the end of the month or fiscal year, based on the total amount purchased during that period. Alternatively, for payment purposes, a bank account number or credit card information may be registered in advance, and the payment may be automatically billed to the registered bank account or credit card company. The purchase processing unit 505 sends a purchase request to the environmental value trading market based on a purchase instruction from a user via, for example, a user terminal 100, but it may also send a purchase request to the environmental value trading market even without a purchase instruction from a user.

[0076] Specifically, if the remaining environmental value of the mobile device is insufficient after considering the deduction based on consumption, a purchase request is automatically sent to the environmental value trading market. However, it is also possible to set the system to obtain user approval before sending a purchase request to the environmental value trading market. In other words, by setting this in advance, the purchase processing unit 505 can switch between automatically sending a purchase request to the environmental value trading market or sending a purchase request to the environmental value trading market only after user approval has been obtained.

[0077] The output unit 506 outputs presentation information to the user terminal 100, causing the presentation unit 406 to display it. Since there are several types of presentation information output by the output unit 506, they will be explained in conjunction with the following explanation of the operation of the information processing system 1.

[0078] [2. Operation of the Information Processing System] Next, we will explain the operation of the information processing system configured as described above.

[0079] Figures 5 to 8 are sequence diagrams showing an example of information processing in the information processing system according to the embodiment.

[0080] As shown in Figure 5, the environmental value management unit 504 reads out the remaining amount of environmental value remaining as a result of the previous movement or charging of the mobile body (S100). The environmental value management unit 504 may read out the remaining amount of environmental value from a storage unit (not shown) or from the distributed ledger 205 of the blockchain system 200.

[0081] The start time input unit 404 receives input from the user regarding the start time (S101). The start time input unit 404 generates start time information indicating the start time and transmits it to the information processing server 300 (S102). The mode switching unit 503 switches to a usage mode that uses environmental value from the start time onward (S103).

[0082] Furthermore, the output unit 506 generates and outputs presentation information to indicate to the user terminal 100 that it has switched to the usage mode (S104). The presentation information is presented to the user by the presentation unit 406. The presentation information includes an image to indicate that the current mode is the usage mode, that is, that the movement of the mobile object is in a mode that involves the use of environmental value. The presentation unit 406 displays this image on the touch display of the user terminal or the like to indicate to the user that the movement is in usage mode.

[0083] Furthermore, the output unit 506 generates and outputs presentation information to the user terminal 100 to show it a route that uses less environmental value than other routes (S104). This route is one that consumes less energy and avoids routes that are prone to temporary stops of the moving object, such as intersections and traffic jams, and routes that are long in distance. The route calculation may be performed on the information processing server 300 or on the car navigation system of the moving object. Therefore, the presentation information may include information that shows a specific route, or it may simply include calculation instructions with conditions attached to the route calculation.

[0084] As the mobile unit moves, the power consumption measurement unit 403 measures the amount of power consumed (S105). The power consumption measurement unit 403 continues to measure power consumption after the mobile unit has started (for example, when the start key is ON), regardless of the mode switching state. The power consumption measured by the power consumption measurement unit 403 is transmitted to the information processing server 300 (S106). The environmental value management unit 504 subtracts the amount of environmental value corresponding to the amount of consumption (usage) from the remaining amount of environmental value read out (S107). When there is a change in the remaining amount of environmental value, or at predetermined conditions such as after a certain period of time has elapsed, the environmental value management unit 504 transmits the remaining amount of environmental value to the blockchain system 200 (S108). In the blockchain system 200, the remaining amount of environmental value is stored in the distributed ledger 205 of each node 200a to 200c (S109).

[0085] Here, if the remaining amount of environmental value of the mobile unit is insufficient compared to the amount consumed (in other words, if the amount used is greater than the remaining amount of environmental value, the answer is Yes in S110), the output unit 506 generates and outputs information to obtain the user's approval for purchasing environmental value in the environmental value trading market (S111). Upon receiving the information, the presentation unit 406 displays an image with options for the user to approve or disapprove the purchase. The user selects the option that best suits their wishes. Here, we will continue the explanation assuming that the user has selected the option to approve the purchase of environmental value.

[0086] The approval input unit 407 receives the user's selection, that is, the selection of an option to approve the purchase of environmental value (approval input) (S112), and generates approval information. The approval input unit 407 transmits the approval information to the information processing server 300 (S113).

[0087] Having obtained user approval, the purchase processing unit 505 sends a purchase request for environmental value to the environmental value trading market, along with the pre-registered billing information (S114). The environmental value trading market places an invoice with the billing information, and upon settlement, returns the purchase result of the environmental value to the information processing server 300 (S115). The purchase result of the environmental value includes information on the amount of environmental value purchased, along with information on the completion of payment.

[0088] The environmental value management unit 504 increases the remaining amount of environmental value based on the amount of environmental value purchased, as indicated in the purchase results of environmental value (S116). Since a change has occurred in the remaining amount of environmental value, the environmental value management unit 504 transmits the remaining amount of environmental value to the blockchain system 200 (S117). The blockchain system 200 stores the remaining amount of environmental value in the distributed ledger 205 of each node 200a to 200c (S118). If the remaining amount of environmental value of the mobile device is not insufficient compared to the amount consumed (No in S110), the environmental value management unit 504 repeats subtracting the remaining amount of environmental value according to the amount consumed (S107) without executing steps S111 onwards. Thereafter, until the usage mode ends, steps S105 to S118 are repeated, so that during the period when the device is switched to usage mode, environmental value is subtracted according to the amount consumed, purchases are made if environmental value is insufficient, and the change in the remaining amount of environmental value is stored in the distributed ledger 205. In this way, environmental value is used when the system is in use mode, and not used when it is in non-use mode, allowing for more appropriate use of environmental value both before and after the user's starting point.

[0089] As shown in Figure 6, the termination point input unit 405 accepts the user's input for the termination point (S121). The termination point input unit 405 generates termination point information indicating the termination point and transmits it to the information processing server 300 (S122). The mode switching unit 503 switches the operation from the termination point onward to a non-use mode (another mode) in which environmental value is not used (S123). Furthermore, the output unit 506 generates and outputs presentation information to indicate to the user terminal 100 that the operation has switched to non-use mode (S124). The presentation information is presented to the user by the presentation unit 406. The presentation information includes an image to indicate that the current mode is non-use mode, that is, a mode in which the movement of the moving object does not involve the use of environmental value. The presentation unit 406 displays this image on the touch display of the user terminal or the like to indicate to the user that the movement is in non-use mode.

[0090] Although not shown in the diagram, the power consumption measurement unit 403 may continue to measure the power consumption and transmit it to the information processing server 300 until the mobile unit is stopped (until the start key is turned OFF). Since the deduction of the remaining environmental value has stopped, the environmental value management unit 504 transmits the remaining environmental value at that time to the blockchain system 200 (S125). The blockchain system 200 stores the remaining environmental value in the distributed ledger 205 of each node 200a to 200c (S126).

[0091] Furthermore, the Environmental Value Management Unit 504 transmits information regarding the movement of the mobile object to the blockchain system 200, including an ID to identify this movement from other movements, the start time of the movement, and / or the end time of the movement, and requests the issuance of an NFT (S127). The blockchain system 200, if it has successfully deducted the environmental value of the amount of usage corresponding to the amount of consumption from the remaining amount from the information regarding the movement of the mobile object and the movement identified from that information, generates transaction data to generate a certificate NFT that serves as proof of this, and stores the transaction data in the distributed ledger 205 (S129). This enables the generation of a certificate NFT. This certificate proves that the movement identified from the information regarding the movement of the mobile object was carried out with zero carbon dioxide emissions through the use of environmental value (a so-called zero-carbon drive).

[0092] For example, if the movement identified from the information regarding the movement of the moving object is carried out only in use mode, but the environmental value is insufficient and the insufficient environmental value is not purchased, then movement in use mode that utilizes environmental value becomes impossible, and the result in step S128 is No, so the certificate is not issued.

[0093] The blockchain system 200 transmits access information for the issued NFT to the user terminal 100 (S130). Alternatively, the blockchain system 200 may transmit access information for the issued NFT to the information processing server 300.

[0094] In this way, when the movement of a mobile device in use mode is completed, if the movement was carried out solely in use mode, a certificate can be issued to prove this, which can then be used for external proof, etc.

[0095] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 7, it is assumed that power generation using non-fossil energy sources with environmental value (such as solar, hydro, wind, geothermal, and wave energy) is guaranteed. When the mobile device's battery is charged, the charge amount measurement unit 402 measures the charge amount (S141). The charge amount measurement unit 402 transmits the measured charge amount to the information processing server 300 (S142). The environmental value management unit 504 increases the remaining amount of environmental value according to the charge amount (S143). Also, since a change has occurred in the remaining amount of environmental value, the environmental value management unit 504 transmits the remaining amount of environmental value to the blockchain system 200 (S144). In the blockchain system 200, the remaining amount of environmental value is stored in the distributed ledger 205 of each node 200a to 200c (S145).

[0096] In this way, when a mobile vehicle's battery is charged, as long as it is guaranteed that the electricity used for charging is generated from non-fossil fuels, the remaining environmental value in the mobile vehicle can be increased in proportion to the amount of charge, and the remaining environmental value can be accurately managed by the amount of charge.

[0097] Furthermore, in the process of storing the remaining amount of environmental value in the distributed ledger 205, as shown in Figure 8, the environmental value management unit 504 generates transaction data (indicated as "Tx data" in Figure 8) containing information indicating the remaining amount of environmental value (S161), transmits the generated transaction data to node 200b (S162), transmits it to node 200a (S163), and transmits it to node 200c (S164).

[0098] When node 200a receives transaction data, it executes the consensus algorithm together with the other nodes (i.e., nodes 200b and 200c), generates a block containing the transaction data, and stores it in the distributed ledger 205 (S165). Similarly, when node 200b receives transaction data, it executes the consensus algorithm together with the other nodes (i.e., nodes 200a and 200c), generates a block containing the transaction data, and stores it in the distributed ledger 205 (S166). Similarly, when node 200c receives transaction data, it executes the consensus algorithm together with the other nodes (i.e., nodes 200a and 200b), generates a block containing the transaction data, and stores it in the distributed ledger 205 (S167).

[0099] Furthermore, although not shown in the diagram, in step S129, transaction data relating to the certificate NFT issued by any of nodes 200a to 200c is transmitted to the remaining nodes of nodes 200a to 200c, where a consensus algorithm is executed to generate blocks containing the transaction data relating to the certificate NFT at each node 200a to 200c, and these blocks are stored in the distributed ledger 205. In this way, since the same data is stored in each of the distributed ledgers 205, it becomes difficult to tamper with the remaining environmental value and the certificate NFT, and the information reliability of the remaining environmental value and the certificate NFT can be easily guaranteed.

[0100] Furthermore, the processing performed by the blockchain system 200 may be carried out using smart contracts.

[0101] Figure 9 is an explanatory diagram showing transaction data related to the execution of a smart contract. Figure 10 is an explanatory diagram showing the processing related to the execution of a smart contract.

[0102] Referring to Figures 9 and 10, a series of processes related to the execution of a smart contract using a distributed ledger will be explained.

[0103] In step SB1, the node stores transaction data B11, which includes contract code B12 describing the processing of the smart contract, in the distributed ledger B10. For example, the node obtains transaction data B11 by receiving it via communication from an information processing device or by generating the transaction data B11 itself, and stores the obtained transaction data B11 in the distributed ledger B10. Step SB1 is performed before executing the smart contract.

[0104] In step SB2, the node stores transaction data B15, which includes the instruction B16 to execute the smart contract, in the distributed ledger B10. For example, the node receives transaction data B15 from an information processing device via communication and stores the received transaction data B15 in the distributed ledger B10.

[0105] In step SB3, the node reads the contract code B12 from the distributed ledger B10 in response to the fact that the transaction data B15, including the instruction B16, was stored in the distributed ledger B10 in step SB2, and executes processing based on the contract code B12. The result of the above processing may be included in the transaction data and stored in the distributed ledger B10.

[0106] Through the above series of processes, when the distributed ledger system receives transaction data B15 containing the instruction B16 to execute a smart contract, it automatically (in other words, without human intervention) executes the process according to instruction B16, enabling highly efficient (in other words, fast or in a short time) processing. This high-efficiency processing has the effect of reducing power consumption. Furthermore, because it does not involve human intervention, it is possible to prevent human tampering with information, fraudulent activities, or human errors. In addition, since the results of the processing executed in this way are stored on the blockchain, it is virtually impossible to tamper with the results of the processing.

[0107] A supplementary explanation of the blockchain in each of the above embodiments will be provided.

[0108] Figure 11 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the data structure of a blockchain.

[0109] A blockchain is a chain of blocks, which are the units of data recording. Each block contains multiple transaction data and the hash value of the previous block. Specifically, block B2 contains the hash value of the previous block, B1. Then, the hash value calculated from the multiple transaction data contained in block B2 and the hash value of block B1 is included in block B3 as the hash value of block B2. In this way, by including the contents of the previous block as a hash value and linking the blocks in a chain, tampering with the recorded transaction data is effectively prevented.

[0110] If past transaction data is altered, the hash value of the block will be different from the original value. To make the tampered block appear legitimate, all subsequent blocks would have to be rebuilt, a process that is practically extremely difficult. This property is used to guarantee the tamper-proof nature of blockchain.

[0111] Figure 12 is an explanatory diagram showing the data structure of transaction data.

[0112] The transaction data shown in Figure 12 includes a transaction body P1 and an electronic signature P2. The transaction body P1 is the data body contained in the transaction data. The electronic signature P2 is generated by signing the hash value of the transaction body P1 with the signing key of the creator of the transaction data, or more specifically, by encrypting it with the creator's private key.

[0113] Since the transaction data has an electronic signature P2, it is virtually impossible to tamper with it. This prevents alteration of the transaction body itself.

[0114] In the above embodiment, each component may be implemented by dedicated hardware or by executing a software program suitable for each component. Each component may also be implemented by a program execution unit such as a CPU or processor reading and executing a software program recorded on a recording medium such as a hard disk or semiconductor memory. Here, the software that implements the information processing method of the above embodiment is a program that causes a computer to execute each step included in the flowchart shown in the figure.

[0115] The following cases are also included in this disclosure.

[0116] (1) Specifically, each of the above devices is a computer system consisting of a microprocessor, ROM, RAM, hard disk unit, display unit, keyboard, mouse, etc. A computer program is stored in the RAM or hard disk unit. Each device achieves its function by operating the microprocessor in accordance with the computer program. Here, a computer program is composed of a combination of multiple instruction codes that indicate commands to the computer in order to achieve a predetermined function.

[0117] (2) Some or all of the components constituting each of the above devices may be made up of a single system LSI (Large Scale Integration). The system LSI is a multi-functional LSI manufactured by integrating multiple components onto a single chip, and specifically, it is a computer system that includes a microprocessor, ROM, RAM, etc. A computer program is stored in the RAM. The system LSI achieves its function by operating the microprocessor in accordance with the computer program.

[0118] (3) Some or all of the components constituting each of the above devices may consist of an IC card or a standalone module that can be attached to or removed from each device. The IC card or module is a computer system consisting of a microprocessor, ROM, RAM, etc. The IC card or module may include the above-mentioned multi-functional LSI. The microprocessor operates according to a computer program, thereby enabling the IC card or module to achieve its function. The IC card or module may be tamper-resistant.

[0119] (4) The present disclosure may also be the methods described above. Alternatively, it may be a computer program that implements these methods using a computer, or a digital signal consisting of the computer program.

[0120] Furthermore, the computer program or the digital signal may be recorded on a computer-readable recording medium, such as a flexible disk, hard disk, CD-ROM, MO, DVD, DVD-ROM, DVD-RAM, BD (Blu-ray® Disc), semiconductor memory, etc. Alternatively, the digital signal may be recorded on one of these recording media.

[0121] Furthermore, this disclosure may also describe transmitting the computer program or digital signal via telecommunications lines, wireless or wired communication lines, networks such as the Internet, data broadcasting, etc.

[0122] Furthermore, the present disclosure may also provide a computer system comprising a microprocessor and memory, wherein the memory stores the computer program, and the microprocessor operates in accordance with the computer program.

[0123] Furthermore, the program or digital signal may be implemented by another independent computer system by recording and transferring it on the recording medium, or by transferring the program or digital signal via the network or the like.

[0124] (5) The above embodiments and the above modified examples may be combined.

[0125] (Explanation of the Distributed Ledger System) The ledger system (also called the distributed ledger system) mentioned above will be explained in detail below.

[0126] A distributed ledger system is a system that stores and maintains information using P2P (peer-to-peer) network technology, in which multiple nodes are connected. A node is an information processing device in which a processor (e.g., a CPU) executes a program using memory to perform predetermined processing.

[0127] In a distributed ledger system, each of the multiple nodes autonomously maintains and synchronizes copies of the information. This allows the distributed ledger system to properly store information while effectively preventing tampering, without using privileged nodes (e.g., a centralized server or a client-server model server).

[0128] Furthermore, a device attempting to access a distributed ledger only needs to access one of the multiple nodes provided by the distributed ledger system; in other words, it does not need to access a small number of centralized servers or other devices. This avoids the concentration of communication or processing load on a centralized server that can occur in centralized systems. This has the advantage that the resources (CPU or memory, etc.) of the nodes do not need to be of very high specifications, and the communication lines to which the nodes are connected do not need to have a large communication capacity. As a result, a distributed ledger system can be configured using general-purpose nodes or communication lines, which can contribute to a reduction in the required computer resources or communication resources, or a reduction in the costs required for nodes and communication lines.

[0129] Furthermore, distributed ledger systems can store information with high fault tolerance and allow information to be accessed with high fault tolerance. If all of the multiple nodes of a distributed ledger system fail, the distributed ledger system will stop, but since it is rare for all of the multiple nodes to fail, it is rare for the distributed ledger system to stop. This is an advantage over centralized systems, where if the centralized server fails, information cannot be stored or accessed.

[0130] This disclosure is useful as an information processing method that facilitates the appropriate use of environmental values.

[0131] 1. Information Processing System 100. User Terminal 200. Blockchain System 200a, 200b, 200c. Nodes 201, 401, 501. Communication Unit 202. Control Unit 203. Recording Unit 204. Transaction Data Verification Unit 205. Distributed Ledger 300. Information Processing Server 402. Charge Amount Measurement Unit 403. Consumption Amount Measurement Unit 404. Start Time Input Unit 405. End Time Input Unit 406. Presentation Unit 407. Approval Input Unit 502. Acquisition Unit 503. Mode Switching Unit 504. Environmental Value Management Unit 505. Purchase Processing Unit 506. Output Unit N. Network

Claims

1. An information processing method performed by a computer, comprising: reading the remaining amount of environmental value related to the power that can be consumed when a moving object is moving; obtaining start time information indicating the start time of switching from another mode to a usage mode in which the moving object is moved using the environmental value; and subtracting from the read remaining amount of environmental value the amount of environmental value used in the movement of the moving object after the start time indicated in the obtained start time information, corresponding to the amount of power consumed in the movement of the moving object after the start time.

2. The information processing method according to claim 1, further comprising: acquiring termination information indicating the termination of the switch from the other mode to the usage mode; and the amount of environmental value used being an amount corresponding to the amount of electricity consumed by the movement of the mobile body after the start time indicated in the acquired start time information and before the termination time indicated in the acquired termination information.

3. The information processing method according to claim 1, further comprising outputting presentation information to indicate to the user of the moving body that it is moving in the usage mode.

4. The information processing method according to claim 1, further comprising outputting presentation information for presenting the remaining amount of environmental value to the user of the mobile body.

5. The information processing method according to claim 1, further comprising outputting presentation information for presenting to the user of the mobile vehicle a route in which the amount of environmental value used is reduced compared to other routes.

6. The information processing method according to claim 1, wherein, when the amount of environmental value used is greater than the remaining amount of environmental value read out, the remaining amount of environmental value read out is increased in exchange for payment of a fee.

7. The information processing method according to claim 6, further comprising: outputting information to obtain approval from the user of the mobile body when the amount of environmental value used is greater than the remaining amount of environmental value read out; and, upon obtaining the user's approval for the outputted information, increasing the remaining amount of environmental value read out in exchange for payment of a fee.

8. The information processing method according to claim 1, wherein the computer manages a distributed ledger, and the information processing method further stores information indicating the remaining amount of environmental value in the mobile body in the distributed ledger.

9. The information processing method according to claim 1, wherein the computer manages a distributed ledger, and the information processing method further stores in the distributed ledger information relating to the movement of the mobile body in the usage mode and information of a certificate proving that the movement was carried out only in the usage mode.

10. An information processing system comprising a processor and memory, wherein the processor uses the memory to read out the remaining amount of environmental value related to the power that can be consumed when a mobile body is moving, obtains start time information indicating the start time of switching from another mode to a usage mode in which the mobile body is moved using the environmental value, and subtracts from the read-out remaining amount of environmental value the amount of environmental value used in the movement of the mobile body after the start time indicated in the obtained start time information, corresponding to the amount of power consumed in the movement of the mobile body after the start time.

11. A program for causing the computer to execute the information processing method described in claim 1.

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