Information processing device, information processing method, and program

Abstract

This information processing device comprises: an acquisition unit that acquires a service plan of a transport, and a first index corresponding to a service time zone and a service section; a superimposition unit that superimposes and displays, on a display unit, a diagram image indicating the service plan and a heat map image indicating the first index; and an update unit that updates one or both of the diagram image and the heat map image in accordance with editing of the service plan based on a user operation.

Description

Information Processing Apparatus, Information Processing Method, and Program

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

[0002] In Patent Document 1, when displaying a train diagram on a display device, a technique is described in which the display mode (color, thickness, etc.) of train lines is changed according to the train occupancy rate, or the display mode (shade of color, etc.) is changed for each station-to-station and for each unit period according to the section occupancy rate.

[0003] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2022-158625

[0004] Here, when formulating an operation plan for a transportation facility such as a train, it is important to consider demand and the like. In the technique described in Patent Document 1, although the train occupancy rate and the section occupancy rate are visualized, there is a problem that it is difficult to grasp whether the operation plan is appropriate according to demand and the like. Therefore, there is a need to clearly present the appropriateness of the operation plan to the user.

[0005] The present disclosure has been made in view of the above problems, and an exemplary object thereof is to provide a technique for clearly presenting the appropriateness of an operation plan to a user.

[0006] An information processing apparatus according to an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure includes an acquisition unit that acquires an operation plan of a transportation facility and a first index according to an operation time zone and an operation section, a superimposing unit that superimposes and displays on a display unit a diagram image indicating the operation plan and a heat map image indicating the first index, and an update unit that updates one or both of the diagram image and the heat map image according to an edit of the operation plan based on a user operation.

[0007] An example of an information processing method relating to this disclosure includes, at least one processor performing an acquisition process to acquire a transportation service operation plan and a first indicator corresponding to the operating time and operating section; an overlay process to display a diagram image showing the operation plan and a heatmap image showing the first indicator on a display unit; and an update process to update one or both of the diagram image and the heatmap image in response to editing of the operation plan based on user operations.

[0008] An exemplary aspect of the present disclosure is a program that causes a computer to function as an information processing device, wherein the computer functions as an acquisition means for acquiring a first indicator corresponding to the operation plan of a transportation system, the operating time, and the operating section; an overlay means for displaying a diagram image showing the operation plan and a heatmap image showing the first indicator superimposed on a display unit; and an update means for updating one or both of the diagram image and the heatmap image in response to editing of the operation plan based on user operations.

[0009] One illustrative effect of this disclosure is that it can provide a technology that clearly presents the appropriateness of the operation plan to the user.

[0010] This is a block diagram showing the configuration of the information processing device related to this disclosure. This is a flowchart showing the flow of the information processing method related to this disclosure. This is a block diagram showing the configuration of the information processing device related to this disclosure. This is a flowchart showing the flow of the information processing method related to this disclosure. This is a schematic diagram showing an example of a screen displayed in this disclosure. This is a schematic diagram showing an example of a screen displayed in this disclosure. This is a schematic diagram showing an example of a screen displayed in this disclosure. This is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of a computer that functions as each of the above devices related to this disclosure.

[0011] The following are examples of embodiments of the present invention. However, the present invention is not limited to the exemplary embodiments shown below, and various modifications are possible within the scope of the claims. For example, embodiments obtained by appropriately combining some or all of the technologies (things or methods) employed in each of the exemplary embodiments shown below may also be included in the scope of the present invention. Furthermore, embodiments obtained by appropriately omitting some of the technologies employed in each of the exemplary embodiments shown below may also be included in the scope of the present invention. In addition, the effects mentioned in each of the exemplary embodiments shown below are examples of effects that can be expected in that exemplary embodiment and do not define the scope of the present invention. That is, embodiments that do not produce the effects mentioned in each of the exemplary embodiments shown below may also be included in the scope of the present invention.

[0012] [First Exemplary Embodiment] A first exemplary embodiment, which is an example of an embodiment of the present invention, will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. This exemplary embodiment is the basic form for each of the exemplary embodiments described later. The scope of application of each technology adopted in this exemplary embodiment is not limited to this exemplary embodiment. That is, each technology adopted in this exemplary embodiment can also be adopted in other exemplary embodiments included in this disclosure, to the extent that no particular technical problems occur. Furthermore, each technology shown in the drawings referenced to explain this exemplary embodiment can also be adopted in other exemplary embodiments included in this disclosure, to the extent that no particular technical problems occur.

[0013] (Configuration of Information Processing Device 1) The configuration of the information processing device 1 will be explained with reference to Figure 1. Figure 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the information processing device 1. As shown in Figure 1, the information processing device 1 includes an acquisition unit 11, an overlay unit 12, and an update unit 13. The acquisition unit 11 is an example of a configuration that realizes the acquisition means. The overlay unit 12 is an example of a configuration that realizes the overlay means. The update unit 13 is an example of a configuration that realizes the update means.

[0014] The acquisition unit 11 acquires the operation plan of the transportation system, and a first indicator corresponding to the operating time and section. The transportation system is a system that transports people or goods, and includes, but is not limited to, railways, buses, trucks, aircraft, ships, etc. An operation plan refers to a plan that specifies the departure and arrival places and departure and arrival times for each operating unit of the transportation system. An operating unit is a unit that specifies the departure and arrival places and departure and arrival times, etc., and includes, for example, one train, one bus, one truck, one airplane, one ship, etc. For example, the acquisition unit 11 may acquire an operation plan created by a user, or it may acquire an operation plan created by a computer. An operation plan created by a computer may be one created using known technologies such as reinforcement learning or combinatorial optimization techniques. However, the technology for creating an operation plan by a computer is not limited to the examples described above.

[0015] The first indicator is an indicator corresponding to the operating time and operating section. For example, the first indicator may be an indicator that does not change in response to changes in the operating plan, or it may be an indicator that can change in response to changes in the operating plan. Alternatively, the first indicator may be demand, importance, congestion level, or operating cost according to the operating time and operating section.

[0016] For example, demand and importance are indicators that do not change in response to changes in the operation plan. For instance, demand indicates the number of users or the volume of cargo used by the transportation service, estimated according to the operating time and route. Demand can change due to various other factors, but it does not change simply because the operation plan has changed. Importance, on the other hand, indicates the degree to which the transportation service is important, estimated according to the operating time and route. For example, the importance of the school commuting hours for routes including the nearest station to a school in sparsely populated areas is high, and this indicator does not necessarily synchronize with demand. Importance also does not change even if the operation plan is changed.

[0017] Furthermore, congestion levels and operating costs are examples of indicators that change in response to changes in the operational plan. For example, congestion levels change depending on the estimated demand for the operating time and section, the number of operating units in the said operating time and section, the capacity of each operating unit, etc. Therefore, congestion levels can change in response to changes in the operational plan. Operating costs include, for example, energy costs and labor costs required for each operating unit. Therefore, operating costs can change in response to changes in the operational plan.

[0018] Furthermore, the first indicator is not limited to the examples described above, but may be any indicator that corresponds to the operating time and operating section. For example, even in operating sections with low demand, there may be cases where a minimum number of operating units is set according to the operating time and operating section, such as requiring one operating unit per hour from the perspective of public service. In this case, the first indicator may be an indicator that shows whether the number of operating units included in the operating time and operating section is equal to or greater than the said minimum value.

[0019] The superimposed section 12 displays a diagram image showing the operation plan and a heatmap image showing the first indicator superimposed on the display unit. The diagram image is a diagram showing the operation plan, and may be, for example, a graph in which the operation time and route are the horizontal and vertical axes, and the operation units are represented by sloped line segments. Once the operation plan is determined, the diagram image can be generated. The heatmap image showing the first indicator may be, with the operation time and route as the horizontal and vertical axes, and the size of the first indicator assigned to the shades of a single color for each unit area defined by the operation time and operation section, or it may be assigned to a gradient between multiple colors, but is not limited to these. Note that the unit area is not necessarily limited to a rectangle. For example, the unit area may be a parallelogram slanted according to the direction of operation. Also, there is no limitation on which of the operation time and route is the vertical axis and which is the horizontal axis, but they are the same in the diagram image and the heatmap image. The diagram image and the heatmap image are superimposed so that the values ​​shown on the vertical and horizontal axes are consistent.

[0020] The update unit 13 updates one or both of the diagram image and the heatmap image in response to editing of the operation plan based on user operations. For example, the update unit 13 may update at least the diagram image in response to editing of the operation plan based on user operations. For example, editing changes such as increasing or decreasing the number of operation units, departure and arrival locations, and / or departure and arrival dates and times will update the diagram image to show the edited operation plan. However, in cases where the departure and arrival locations and departure and arrival dates and times of the operation units do not change, such as editing changes to the transport capacity of the operation units (e.g., the number of cars in the train), the diagram image itself may not show any change.

[0021] Furthermore, for example, the update unit 13 may update at least the heatmap image in accordance with the editing of the operation plan. For example, if the first indicator is an indicator that can change in accordance with changes in the operation plan, the first indicator may change in accordance with the editing of the operation plan. When the first indicator changes, the heatmap image is updated.

[0022] (Effects of Information Processing Device 1) As described above, the Information Processing Device 1 is configured to include an acquisition unit 11 that acquires the transportation operation plan and a first indicator corresponding to the operating time and section; an overlay unit 12 that displays a diagram image showing the operation plan and a heatmap image showing the first indicator superimposed on a display unit; and an update unit 13 that updates one or both of the diagram image and the heatmap image in response to editing of the operation plan based on user operations. As a result, the user can visually grasp the extent to which the operation plan conforms to the viewpoint of the first indicator while editing the operation plan.

[0023] Furthermore, in the information processing device 1, the first indicator is an indicator that can change in accordance with changes in the operation plan, and the update unit 13 is configured to update at least the heatmap image in accordance with the editing of the operation plan. As a result, the user can visually confirm how the first indicator changes as a result of editing the operation plan, and edit the operation plan to better suit the first indicator.

[0024] Furthermore, the information processing device 1 employs a configuration in which the first indicator is demand, importance, congestion level, or operating cost according to the operating time and operating section. Therefore, it is possible to present to the user in an easy-to-understand manner the appropriateness of the operation plan based on the perspectives of demand, importance, congestion level, or operating cost.

[0025] (Flow of Information Processing Method S1) The flow of information processing method S1 will be explained with reference to Figure 2. For example, if the information processing device 1 includes at least one processor, the information processing device 1 executes information processing method S1. Figure 2 is a flowchart showing the flow of information processing method S1. As shown in Figure 2, information processing method S1 includes an acquisition process S11, an overlay process S12, and an update process S13.

[0026] In acquisition process S11, at least one processor (for example, acquisition unit 11) acquires the transportation service's operation plan, and a first indicator corresponding to the operating time and section. Details of acquisition process S11 will be explained in the same way as for acquisition unit 11, so a detailed explanation will not be repeated.

[0027] In the superposition process S12, at least one processor (for example, the superposition unit 12) superimposes a diagram image showing the operation plan and a heatmap image showing the first indicator and displays them on the display unit. The details of the superposition process S12 will be explained in the same way as the superposition unit 12, so a detailed explanation will not be repeated.

[0028] In update process S13, at least one processor (for example, update unit 13) updates one or both of the diagram image and the heatmap image in response to editing of the operation plan based on user operations. Details of update process S13 will be explained in the same way as update unit 13, so a detailed explanation will not be repeated.

[0029] (Effects of Information Processing Method S1) As described above, the Information Processing Method S1 employs a configuration in which at least one processor includes an acquisition process for acquiring a first indicator corresponding to the transportation system's operation plan, operating time, and operating section; an overlay process for displaying a diagram image showing the operation plan and a heatmap image showing the first indicator superimposed on the display unit; and an update process for updating one or both of the diagram image and the heatmap image in response to editing of the operation plan based on user operations. Therefore, the Information Processing Method S1 provides the same effects as the Information Processing Device 1.

[0030] [Second Exemplary Embodiment] A second exemplary embodiment, which is an example of an embodiment of the present invention, will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Components having the same function as those described in the above-described exemplary embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions are omitted as appropriate. The scope of application of each technology adopted in this exemplary embodiment is not limited to this exemplary embodiment. That is, each technology adopted in this exemplary embodiment can also be adopted in other exemplary embodiments included in this disclosure, to the extent that no particular technical problems arise. Furthermore, each technology shown in the drawings referenced to describe this exemplary embodiment can also be adopted in other exemplary embodiments included in this disclosure, to the extent that no particular technical problems arise.

[0031] (Configuration of Information Processing Device 1A) The configuration of the information processing device 1A will be described with reference to Figure 3. Figure 3 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the information processing device 1A. As shown in Figure 3, the information processing device 1A includes a control unit 110, a storage unit 120, a communication unit 130, an input unit 140, and a display unit 150. The control unit 110 controls all parts of the information processing device 1A. The storage unit 120 stores various data and programs that the control unit 110 references. The communication unit 130 sends and receives data to and from external devices via a network. The input unit 140 is configured to receive input from user operations and output it to the control unit 110, and may include, for example, an input device such as a keyboard, mouse, touch panel, camera, or microphone. The display unit 150 is configured to display images output from the control unit 110, and may include, for example, a display. The input unit 140 and the display unit 150 may also be integrally formed as a touch panel or the like.

[0032] Furthermore, some or all of the storage unit 120, communication unit 130, input unit 140, and display unit 150 may be connected as peripheral devices instead of being built into the information processing device 1A. Also, the information processing device 1A may function as a server and be connected to a user terminal via a network. In this case, an information processing system including the information processing device 1A and the user terminal is also within the scope of one aspect of this disclosure. In this case, each functional block included in the information processing device 1A may be appropriately distributed and arranged in the information processing device 1A or the user terminal. For example, the input unit 140 and the display unit 150 may be built into or connected to the user terminal. Also, at least some of the functional blocks included in the control unit 110 (for example, the editing UI unit 17 described later) may be included in the user terminal.

[0033] (Configuration of the control unit 110) In addition to the acquisition unit 11, superimposition unit 12, and update unit 13 provided by the information processing device 1, the control unit 110 includes an alert presentation unit 14, a revised proposal presentation unit 15, a run plan generation unit 16, and an editing UI unit 17. The alert presentation unit 14 is an example of a configuration that realizes the alert presentation means. The revised proposal presentation unit 15 is an example of a configuration that realizes the revised proposal presentation means.

[0034] In addition to the configuration described above, the acquisition unit 11 is configured as follows. The acquisition unit 11 acquires the operation plan generated by the operation plan generation unit 16. Details of the operation plan generation unit 16 will be described later.

[0035] Furthermore, the acquisition unit 11 may calculate the first indicator based on the number of passengers entering and exiting each boarding and alighting facility that defines the operating section for each operating time period. For example, the origination-destination matrix (OD matrix) is known as data for estimating transportation demand. The OD matrix is ​​data that represents the number of passengers entering and exiting each boarding and alighting facility (e.g., train stations, bus stops, airports, etc.) per unit operating time period (e.g., one year, one month, one day, one hour, 30 minutes, 10 minutes, one minute, etc.) in matrix form. The acquisition unit 11 may perform a process to estimate the first indicator, such as demand or congestion level, using the OD matrix. Alternatively, the acquisition unit 11 may acquire the first indicator estimated by an external device using the OD matrix.

[0036] Furthermore, the acquisition unit 11 may acquire one type of first indicator, or it may acquire multiple types of first indicators. For example, the acquisition unit 11 may acquire only the congestion level, or it may acquire the congestion level and the operating cost, but it is not limited to these examples.

[0037] Furthermore, the acquisition unit 11 may acquire a second indicator related to each operational unit in the operational plan. Here, the second indicator is an indicator related to the operational unit. The second indicator may be an indicator that does not change in accordance with changes in the operational plan, or it may be an indicator that can change in accordance with changes in the operational plan. For example, the second indicator may be the importance of the operational unit, transport capacity, occupancy rate, etc.

[0038] The importance of a train operation unit is an example of an indicator that does not change in response to changes in the train operation plan. For example, train operation units included in high-priority operating time slots and sections can be considered highly important. For instance, the importance of trains during school commuting hours in sections including the nearest station to a school in a sparsely populated area, as mentioned earlier, can be considered high. The importance of such train operation units can be said to remain unchanged even if the train operation plan changes.

[0039] The transport capacity of a unit of operation is an example of an indicator that can change in accordance with changes in the operation plan, and is also referred to as the passenger capacity, maximum cargo capacity, etc. For example, in the case of a train, the passenger capacity changes depending on the number of cars in the train. Also, the degree of congestion of a unit of operation is an example of an indicator that can change in accordance with changes in the operation plan. For example, the degree of congestion of a train can change based on the demand in the operating time period and section that includes that train, and the number of trains and passenger capacity included in that operating time period and section.

[0040] Furthermore, the acquisition unit 11 may acquire one type of second indicator, or it may acquire multiple types of second indicators. For example, the acquisition unit 11 may acquire only transport capacity, or it may acquire transport capacity and occupancy rate, but it is not limited to these examples.

[0041] The superimposed section 12 is configured as follows, in addition to the configuration described above. The superimposed section 12 displays the line segments corresponding to each operating unit in the diagram image in a display manner corresponding to the second indicator. For example, one example of a display manner is to vary the color, density, thickness, or a combination of part or all thereof of the line segment according to the second indicator, but is not limited to this. Also, if multiple types of second indicators are acquired, different display manners may be applied according to each second indicator. For example, transport capacity may be reflected in the thickness of the line segment, and the occupancy rate may be reflected in the color of the line segment, but is not limited to these examples. Furthermore, for example, when the occupancy rate for the same operating unit changes depending on the operating section, the display manner corresponding to the second indicator may differ for each partial line segment constituting the line segment corresponding to the operating unit.

[0042] Furthermore, if multiple types of first indicators are acquired, the superimposing unit 12 displays the diagram image and a heatmap image corresponding to each of the multiple types of first indicators by superimposing them. For example, the superimposing unit 12 may generate a single heatmap image by assigning different components of the color space to each of the multiple types of first indicators, and then superimpose this single heatmap image onto the diagram image. For example, if the red (R), green (G), and blue (B) components in the RGB space are assigned to each of three types of first indicators, a single heatmap image showing the three types of first indicators is generated by matching the size of each type of first indicator to the size of the corresponding component. Note that the color space is not limited to RGB, but may also be CMYK, HSV, etc., but is not limited to these. Also, for example, the superimposing unit 12 may superimpose a heatmap image and a diagram image showing each type of first indicator. In this case, an image with the heatmap image and diagram image superimposed is generated for each type of first indicator. In this case, the superimposed image unit 12 may display the superimposed images on the display unit 150 arranged according to the type of first indicator, or it may display the superimposed images on the display unit 150 while switching between them according to the type of first indicator.

[0043] In addition to the configuration described above, the update unit 13 is configured as follows. The update unit 13 updates the line segment display pattern when the second indicator changes in accordance with the editing of the operation plan. For example, if the thickness of the line segment is applied as a display pattern corresponding to the transport capacity, and an edit is made to change the number of cars in a train, the thickness of the line segment corresponding to that train is updated.

[0044] Further, the update unit 13 updates one or both of the diagram image and the heat map image in response to the correction of the operation plan executed based on the operation of the user who approves the amendment. Here, the amendment is an amendment to the operation plan and is presented by the amendment presentation unit 15. Details of the amendment presentation unit 15 will be described later. Hereinafter, the operation plan corrected based on the operation of the user who approves the amendment is also referred to as the "corrected operation plan". For example, the diagram image displayed superimposed on the heat map image on the display unit 150 is updated to conform to the corrected operation plan. Further, when the first index is an index that can change according to the change of the operation plan, the heat map image displayed superimposed on the diagram image on the display unit 150 is updated to conform to the first index that changes according to the correction of the operation plan.

[0045] The alert presentation unit 14 presents an alert regarding an area that does not meet a predetermined criterion regarding the first index in the heat map image. For example, the predetermined criterion may be that the first index is greater than or equal to a threshold value, less than or equal to a threshold value, or within a predetermined range, etc., but is not limited thereto. Further, for example, the alert presentation unit 14 may display an alert regarding a line segment that does not meet a predetermined criterion regarding the second index in the diagram image. These alerts may be further superimposed and displayed on the diagram image and the heat map image that are superimposed and displayed.

[0046] The amendment presentation unit 15 presents an amendment to the operation plan. For example, the amendment is generated by the operation plan generation unit 16 described later. For example, the amendment may be further superimposed and displayed on the diagram image and the heat map image that are superimposed and displayed.

[0047] The operation plan generation unit 16 generates an initial operation plan. For example, the operation plan generation unit 16 generates an initial operation plan by referring to an operation section, an operation time zone, various constraint information, and the like. Also, for example, the operation plan generation unit 16 generates an amendment to the operation plan. Note that, for the technology of creating or modifying an operation plan, known technologies such as reinforcement learning, combinatorial optimization technology, etc. may be used, but are not limited to the above-described examples. Further, the initial operation plan may be input by the user or acquired from another device instead of being generated by the operation plan generation unit 16.

[0048] Also, the operation plan generation unit 16 modifies the operation plan based on an operation received by an editing UI unit 17 described later. Further, the operation plan generation unit 16 modifies the operation plan in accordance with the amendment based on an operation of a user who approves the amendment.

[0049] The editing UI unit 17 receives an operation for editing the operation plan. The operation for editing the operation plan includes, for example, an operation of adding an operation unit, an operation of deleting, an operation of changing a departure / arrival location or a departure / arrival date and time, an operation of changing the transport capacity of an operation unit, an operation of approving an amendment, etc., but is not limited thereto.

[0050] (Flow of information processing method S1A) The information processing apparatus 1A configured as described above executes the information processing method S1A. FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing the flow of the information processing method S1A. As shown in FIG. 4, the information processing method S1A includes steps S101 to S112.

[0051] In step S101, the operation plan generation unit 16 generates an initial operation plan. Details of the initial operation plan are as described above.

[0052] Step S102 is an example of a process constituting a part of the acquisition process. In step S102, the acquisition unit 11 acquires the initial operation plan generated by the operation plan generation unit 16.

[0053] Step S103 is an example of a process that constitutes part of the acquisition process. In step S103, the acquisition unit 11 acquires a second indicator related to each operation unit included in the operation plan. Details of the second indicator are as described above.

[0054] In step S104, the superimposing unit 12 generates a diagram image based on the operation plan and the second indicator. Details of the diagram image are as described above. The line segments corresponding to each operation unit included in the diagram image are displayed in a manner corresponding to the second indicator.

[0055] Step S105 is an example of a process that constitutes part of the acquisition process. In step S105, the acquisition unit 11 acquires a first indicator according to the operation plan. Details of the first indicator are as described above.

[0056] In step S106, the superimposing unit 12 generates a heatmap image based on the first indicator. Details of the heatmap image are as described above. Note that steps S103 to S104 (process of acquiring the second indicator and generating a diagram image) and steps S105 to S106 (process of acquiring the first indicator and generating a heatmap image) are not limited to being executed in this order, but may be executed in the reverse order, or some or all of them may be executed in parallel.

[0057] Step S107 is an example of superposition processing. In step S107, the superposition unit 12 superimposes the diagram image and the heatmap image and displays them on the display unit 150.

[0058] Step S108 is an example of an alert presentation process. In step S108, the alert presentation unit 14 presents an alert indicating an area in the heatmap image that does not meet a predetermined criterion for the first indicator. The alert presentation unit 14 may also present an alert indicating a line segment in the diagram image that does not meet a predetermined criterion for the second indicator. For example, the alert is displayed on the display unit 150 by being superimposed on an image that is already superimposed.

[0059] Step S109 is an example of the process for presenting a revised plan. In step S109, the revised plan presentation unit 15 presents a revised plan of the operation plan generated by the operation plan generation unit 16. For example, the revised plan is displayed on the display unit 150 by being superimposed on an image that is already superimposed. Note that steps S108 and S109 are not limited to being executed in this order, but can be executed in the reverse order, or some or all of them can be executed in parallel. Also, one or both of steps S108 and S109 do not necessarily have to be executed.

[0060] In step S110, the editing UI unit 17 determines whether or not it has received an operation to edit the operation plan. If it determines Yes in step S110, the operation from step S101 is repeated. If it determines No in step S110, the next step S111 is executed.

[0061] In step S111, the editing UI unit 17 determines whether or not it has received an operation to accept the proposed revision. If it determines Yes in step S111, the operation from step S101 is repeated. If it determines No in step S111, the next step S112 is executed. Note that steps S110 and S111 are not limited to being executed in this order, but may be executed in the reverse order, or some or all of them may be executed in parallel.

[0062] Furthermore, in the iterative processing starting from step S101 when No is determined in step S110 or S111, in step S101, instead of generating an initial operation plan, the operation plan is updated based on operations edited by the user or a revised plan approved by the user. Also, step S107 in this iterative processing is an example of an update process. In step S107, one or both of the diagram image and the heatmap image superimposed on the display unit 150 are updated.

[0063] In step S112, the control unit 110 determines whether or not to terminate the editing of the operation plan. For example, the decision to terminate the editing may be based on whether or not a user operation to instruct the termination of editing has been received, but is not limited to this. If No is determined in step S112, the operation from step S110 is repeated. If Yes is determined in step S112, the information processing method S1A terminates.

[0064] (Screen Example G1) Figure 5 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on the display unit 150 in step S107. As shown in Figure 5, Screen Example G1 shows a screen in which a timetable image G11 and a heatmap image G12 are superimposed, with the horizontal axis representing the operating time and the vertical axis representing the route (stations A1 to A9). In Figure 5, a railway is used as an example of a mode of transport.

[0065] The diagram image G11 includes line segments (hereinafter referred to as "lines") G11-1 to G11-13 corresponding to trains, which are the units of operation. For example, line G11-1 represents a train that departs from station A1 at 6:25 and arrives at station A9 at 7:50. Also, for example, line G11-2 represents a train that departs from station A5 at 5:50 and arrives at station A1 at 6:35. The thickness of lines G11-1 to G11-13 indicates the transport capacity of the train represented by that line. For example, lines G11-2, G11-3, G11-7, and G11-8 are thicker than the other lines, indicating that their transport capacity is greater than the others.

[0066] In heatmap image G12, unit areas defined by operating time periods (30 minutes) and distances between stations are colored with a grayscale of varying intensity according to the degree of congestion (an example of the first indicator). According to heatmap image G12, it can be seen that the degree of congestion increases as you approach station A1 during the time period from 6:30 to 8:00.

[0067] Furthermore, screen example G1 can accept operations to edit the operation plan. For example, in response to operations to add, delete, or move line segments indicating train lines on screen example G1, it may be possible to add or delete corresponding trains, or change departure / arrival locations or departure / arrival dates and times. However, operations to edit the operation plan are not limited to these. A user viewing screen example G1 can understand the appropriateness of the operation plan by comparing the degree of density of train lines in the diagram image G11 with the intensity of the colors in the heatmap image G12. For example, a user can recognize that an area where the colors in the heatmap image G12 are intense but the train lines in the diagram image G11 are not densely packed (for example, the area near station A1 during the time period of 6:30 to 8:00) is of low appropriateness. As a result, the user can recognize that it is necessary to edit the operation plan, such as by adding train lines to that area.

[0068] (Screen Example G2) Figure 6 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on the display unit 150 in steps S108 to S109. As shown in Figure 6, Screen Example G2 shows a screen in which a diagram image G11 and a heatmap image G12 are superimposed, similar to Screen Example G1, and further superimposed callouts G21 to G23.

[0069] The speech bubble G21, "The congestion level exceeds xx% during this time period and in this section," indicates an alert that the congestion level (an example of the first indicator) in the area enclosed by rectangle G21-1 is higher than xx% (an example of a predetermined standard). Speech bubble G21 and rectangle G21-1 are examples of how alerts related to the first indicator are displayed. Additionally, the speech bubble G22, "This train's occupancy rate exceeds yy%," indicates an alert that the occupancy rate (an example of the second indicator) of the train indicated by the diagonally filled line pattern G11-3 exceeds yy%. The display method (diagonal line pattern) of speech bubble G22 and line G11-3 is an example of how alerts related to the second indicator are displayed.

[0070] The speech bubble G23 shows the proposed revision generated by the operation plan generation unit 16, "We propose adding a 6:30 departure from Station A5 bound for Station A1." Although speech bubble G23 shows a proposed revision for one route, it may include proposed revisions for multiple routes. Furthermore, proposed revisions are not limited to being presented as text information, as in speech bubble G23. For example, instead of, or in addition to, speech bubble G23, the proposed revisions may include an image showing the changes from the current diagram image G11 if the diagram image were to be revised according to the proposed revisions. The image showing the changes may include, for example, added, deleted, or changed routes in a different display manner (e.g., different colors) than the current routes.

[0071] Furthermore, the callout G23 includes operation objects G23-1 "YES" and G23-2 "NO". Operation object G23-1 accepts the user's action of accepting the proposed revision. Operation object G23-2 accepts the user's action of not accepting the proposed revision. Also, screen example G2 can accept the action of editing the operation plan, similar to screen example G1.

[0072] Users viewing screen example G2 can recognize time slots and sections with low suitability in the operation plan through the alerts indicated by callout G21 and rectangle G21-1. Furthermore, users viewing screen example G2 can recognize trains with low suitability in the operation plan through the alerts indicated by callout G22 and line G11-3. Additionally, users viewing screen example G2 can consider revisions to improve the suitability of the operation plan through the proposed revisions indicated by callout G23.

[0073] (Screen Example G3) Figure 7 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on the display unit 150 in step S107 of the repetitive processing. As shown in Figure 7, Screen Example G3 shows a screen in which a diagram image G31 and a heatmap image G32 are superimposed. Screen Example G3 is displayed, for example, when an operation to edit the operation plan or an operation to accept the revised plan (an operation on the operation object G23-1) is performed in Screen Example G1 or G2.

[0074] Diagram image G31 is an updated version of diagram image G11. Specifically, diagram image G31 has added routes G31-1 to G31-4 compared to diagram image G11. Also, the transport capacity of route G11-6 has been changed, and the line segment has become thicker. In other words, diagram image G31 shows the edited operation plan, which is an edited version of the operation plan shown in diagram image G11.

[0075] Heatmap image G32 is an updated version of heatmap image G12. Specifically, in heatmap image G32, the color of the area near station A1 during the 6:30 to 8:00 time slot is lighter than that of the same area in heatmap image G12. This indicates that congestion in that area has been alleviated due to the addition of routes G31-1 to G31-4 and an increase in the transport capacity of route G11-6 included in that area. In other words, heatmap image G32 shows the congestion level that has changed from that shown in heatmap image G12 in accordance with the editing of the operation plan.

[0076] Users viewing screen example G3 can edit their route plan while checking how congestion levels are alleviated. For example, by editing the heatmap image G32 so that the overall color becomes lighter, users can create a more appropriate route plan.

[0077] In addition, while screen examples G1 to G3 illustrate an example where congestion level is applied as an example of the first indicator and occupancy rate is applied as an example of the second indicator, the same explanation applies when other indicators are applied as the first and second indicators.

[0078] (Effects of Information Processing Device 1A) As described above, in the Information Processing Device 1A, the acquisition unit 11 is configured to calculate the first indicator based on the number of passengers entering and exiting each boarding and alighting facility that defines the operating section for each operating time period. Therefore, in addition to the effects achieved by the Information Processing Device 1, the Information Processing Device 1A has the effect of being able to calculate the first indicator with greater accuracy.

[0079] As described above, in the information processing device 1A, the acquisition unit 11 further acquires second indicators related to each operating unit in the operation plan, the superimposing unit 12 displays the line segments corresponding to each operating unit in the diagram image in a manner corresponding to the second indicator, and the update unit 13 updates the display manner of the line segments when the second indicator changes in accordance with the editing of the operation plan. Therefore, in addition to the effects achieved by the information processing device 1, the information processing device 1A provides the effect that users can edit the operation plan to better suit the second indicator while visually confirming how the second indicator changes as a result of editing the operation plan.

[0080] As described above, the information processing device 1A is configured to further include an alert display unit 14 that displays an alert regarding areas in the heatmap image that do not meet predetermined criteria for the first indicator. Therefore, in addition to the effects of the information processing device 1, the information processing device 1A provides the effect that the user can clearly identify areas that do not meet predetermined criteria for the first indicator.

[0081] As described above, the information processing device 1A further includes a revision proposal unit 15 that presents revised operation plans, and the update unit 13 is configured to update one or both of the diagram image and the heatmap image in accordance with the revision of the operation plan that is performed based on the user's operation to accept the revision proposal. Therefore, with the information processing device 1A, in addition to the effects performed by the information processing device 1, the user can confirm how the first indicator changes by accepting the presented revision proposal.

[0082] As described above, the information processing device 1A employs a configuration in which the acquisition unit 11 acquires multiple types of first indicators, and the superimposing unit 12 superimposes and displays a diagram image and a heatmap image corresponding to each of the multiple types of first indicators. Therefore, with the information processing device 1A, in addition to the effects of the information processing device 1, the user can visually grasp the extent to which the operation plan conforms to the viewpoints of multiple first indicators while editing the operation plan. As a result, the information processing device 1 can present the appropriateness of the operation plan to the user in an easy-to-understand manner from multiple viewpoints.

[0083] [Example of implementation by software] Some or all of the functions of the information processing devices 1 and 1A (hereinafter also referred to as "each of the above devices") may be implemented by hardware such as integrated circuits (IC chips) or by software.

[0084] In the latter case, each of the above devices is implemented, for example, by a computer that executes instructions for a program, which is software that realizes each function. An example of such a computer (hereinafter referred to as computer C) is shown in Figure 8. Figure 8 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of computer C, which functions as each of the above devices.

[0085] Computer C comprises at least one processor C1 and at least one memory C2. Memory C2 stores a program P for operating Computer C as each of the above-mentioned devices. In Computer C, the processor C1 reads and executes the program P from memory C2, thereby realizing each of the above-mentioned devices.

[0086] For processor C1, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), GPU (Graphic Processing Unit), DSP (Digital Signal Processor), MPU (Micro Processing Unit), FPU (Floating Point Number Processing Unit), PPU (Physics Processing Unit), TPU (Tensor Processing Unit), quantum processor, microcontroller, or a combination thereof can be used. For memory C2, for example, flash memory, HDD (Hard Disk Drive), SSD (Solid State Drive), or a combination thereof can be used.

[0087] Furthermore, computer C may also be equipped with RAM (Random Access Memory) for loading program P at runtime and for temporarily storing various data. Computer C may also be equipped with a communication interface for sending and receiving data with other devices. Furthermore, computer C may also be equipped with an input / output interface for connecting input / output devices such as a keyboard, mouse, display, and printer.

[0088] Furthermore, program P can be recorded on a non-temporary, tangible recording medium M that is readable by computer C. Such recording medium M can include, for example, tape, disk, card, semiconductor memory, or programmable logic circuitry. Computer C can acquire program P via such recording medium M. Program P can also be transmitted via a transmission medium. Such transmission mediums can include, for example, a communication network or broadcast waves. Computer C can also acquire program P via such transmission medium.

[0089] Furthermore, each of the above functions of each of the above devices may be implemented by a single processor in a single computer, by multiple processors in a single computer working together, or by multiple processors in each of multiple computers working together. Also, the program for implementing each of the above functions in each of the above devices may be stored in a single memory in a single computer, distributed and stored in multiple memories in a single computer, or distributed and stored in multiple memories in each of multiple computers. [Additional Note A] This disclosure includes the technologies described in the following addendums. However, the present invention is not limited to the technologies described in the following addendums, and various modifications are possible within the scope of the claims.

[0090] (Appendix A1) An information processing device comprising: an acquisition means for acquiring a transportation service operation plan and a first indicator corresponding to the operating time and operating section; an overlay means for displaying a diagram image showing the operation plan and a heatmap image showing the first indicator superimposed on a display unit; and an update means for updating one or both of the diagram image and the heatmap image in response to editing of the operation plan based on user operation.

[0091] (Appendix A2) The information processing apparatus according to Appendix A1, wherein the first indicator is an indicator that can change in accordance with changes in the operation plan, and the updating means updates at least the heat map image in accordance with editing of the operation plan.

[0092] (Appendix A3) The first indicator is the demand, importance, congestion level, or operating cost according to the operating time and operating section, as described in Appendix A1 or A2.

[0093] (Appendix A4) The acquisition means calculates the first indicator based on the number of passengers entering and exiting each boarding and alighting facility that defines the operating section for each operating time period, as described in any one of Appendix A1 to A3.

[0094] (Note A5) The information processing apparatus according to any one of Notes A1 to A4, wherein the acquisition means further acquires a second indicator related to each operating unit in the operating plan, the superimposing means displays the line segments corresponding to each operating unit in the diagram image in a manner corresponding to the second indicator, and the updating means updates the display manner of the line segments when the second indicator changes in accordance with the editing of the operating plan.

[0095] (Appendix A6) The information processing device according to any one of Appendix A1 to A5, further comprising: an alert presentation means for presenting an alert regarding an area in the heatmap image that does not meet a predetermined criterion for the first indicator.

[0096] (Appendix A7) The information processing device according to any one of Appendix A1 to A6, further comprising a means for presenting a revised operation plan, wherein the update means updates one or both of the diagram image and the heatmap image in accordance with the revision of the operation plan that is performed based on the operation of the user who accepts the revised plan.

[0097] (Appendix A8) The information processing apparatus according to any one of Appendix A1 to A7, wherein the acquisition means acquires a plurality of types of the first indicators, and the superimposing means superimposes and displays the diagram image and a heatmap image corresponding to each of the plurality of types of the first indicators.

[0098] [Addendum B] This disclosure includes the technologies described in the following addendums. However, the present invention is not limited to the technologies described in the following addendums, and various modifications are possible within the scope of the claims.

[0099] (Appendix B1) An information processing method comprising: an acquisition process in which at least one processor acquires a transportation operation plan and a first indicator corresponding to the operating time and operating section; an overlay process in which the at least one processor displays a diagram image showing the operation plan and a heatmap image showing the first indicator superimposed on a display unit; and an update process in which the at least one processor updates one or both of the diagram image and the heatmap image in response to editing of the operation plan based on user operation.

[0100] (Appendix B2) The information processing method according to Appendix B1, wherein the first indicator is an indicator that can change in accordance with changes in the operation plan, and in the update process, the at least one processor updates at least the heatmap image in accordance with the editing of the operation plan.

[0101] (Appendix B3) The first indicator is the demand, importance, congestion level, or operating cost according to the operating time and operating section, as described in Appendix B1 or B2.

[0102] (Appendix B4) The information processing method according to any one of Appendices B1 to B3, wherein in the acquisition process, at least one processor calculates the first index based on the number of passengers entering and exiting each boarding and alighting facility defining the operating section for each operating time period.

[0103] (Note B5) The information processing method according to any one of Notes B1 to B4, wherein in the acquisition process, the at least one processor further acquires a second indicator related to each operating unit in the operating plan; in the superposition process, the at least one processor displays the line segments corresponding to each operating unit in the diagram image in a manner corresponding to the second indicator; and in the update process, the at least one processor updates the display manner of the line segments when the second indicator changes in accordance with the editing of the operating plan.

[0104] (Appendix B6) The information processing method according to any one of Appendices B1 to B5, further comprising an alert presentation process in which at least one processor presents an alert regarding an area in the heatmap image that does not meet a predetermined criterion for the first indicator.

[0105] (Appendix B7) The information processing method according to any one of Appendix B1 to B6, wherein the at least one processor further includes a revision proposal process for presenting a revised version of the operation plan, and in the update process, the at least one processor updates one or both of the diagram image and the heatmap image in accordance with the revision of the operation plan that is performed based on the user's operation to accept the revision proposal.

[0106] (Appendix B8) The information processing method according to any one of Appendix B1 to B7, wherein in the acquisition process, the at least one processor acquires multiple types of the first indicators, and in the superposition process, the at least one processor superimposes and displays the diagram image and a heatmap image corresponding to each of the multiple types of the first indicators.

[0107] [Addendum C] This disclosure includes the technologies described in the following addendums. However, the present invention is not limited to the technologies described in the following addendums, and various modifications are possible within the scope of the claims.

[0108] (Appendix C1) A program that causes a computer to function as an information processing device, wherein the computer functions as: an acquisition means for acquiring a first indicator corresponding to the operation plan of a transportation system, the operating time, and the operating section; an overlay means for displaying a diagram image showing the operation plan and a heatmap image showing the first indicator superimposed on a display unit; and an update means for updating one or both of the diagram image and the heatmap image in response to editing of the operation plan based on user operations.

[0109] (Appendix C2) The first indicator is an indicator that can change in accordance with changes in the operation plan, and the updating means updates at least the heat map image in accordance with editing of the operation plan, the program as described in Appendix C1.

[0110] (Appendix C3) The first indicator is the demand, importance, congestion level, or operating cost according to the operating time and operating section, as described in Appendix C1 or C2.

[0111] (Appendix C4) The acquisition means is a program described in any one of Appendix C1 to C3 that calculates the first indicator based on the number of passengers entering and exiting each boarding and alighting facility that defines the operating section for each operating time period.

[0112] (Note C5) The acquisition means further acquires a second indicator related to each operating unit in the operating plan; the superimposing means displays the line segments corresponding to each operating unit in the diagram image in a manner corresponding to the second indicator; and the updating means updates the display manner of the line segments when the second indicator changes in accordance with the editing of the operating plan, as described in any one of Notes C1 to C4.

[0113] (Appendix C6) A program according to any one of Appendices C1 to C5, which further causes the computer to function as an alert presentation means for presenting an alert regarding an area in the heatmap image that does not meet a predetermined criterion for the first indicator.

[0114] (Appendix C7) The program described in any one of Appendix C1 to C6, wherein the computer further functions as a means for presenting revised plans for the operation schedule, and the update means updates one or both of the diagram image and the heatmap image in accordance with the revision of the operation schedule that is performed based on the operation of the user who accepts the revised plans.

[0115] (Note C8) The program described in any one of Notes C1 to C7, wherein the acquisition means acquires multiple types of the first indicators, and the superimposing means superimposes and displays the diagram image and a heatmap image corresponding to each of the multiple types of the first indicators.

[0116] [Addendum D] This disclosure includes the technologies described in the following addendums. However, the present invention is not limited to the technologies described in the following addendums, and various modifications are possible within the scope of the claims.

[0117] (Appendix D1) An information processing device comprising at least one processor, the at least one processor performing: an acquisition process for acquiring a transportation operation plan and a first indicator corresponding to the operating time and operating section; an overlay process for displaying a diagram image showing the operation plan and a heatmap image showing the first indicator superimposed on a display unit; and an update process for updating one or both of the diagram image and the heatmap image in response to editing of the operation plan based on user operation.

[0118] The information processing device may further include memory. The memory may also store a program for causing at least one processor to perform each of the aforementioned processes.

[0119] (Appendix D2) The information processing apparatus according to Appendix D1, wherein the first indicator is an indicator that can change in accordance with changes in the operation plan, and in the update process, the at least one processor updates at least the heatmap image in accordance with the editing of the operation plan.

[0120] (Appendix D3) The first indicator is the demand, importance, congestion level, or operating cost according to the operating time and operating section, as described in Appendix D1 or D2.

[0121] (Appendix D4) The information processing device according to any one of Appendix D1 to D3, wherein in the acquisition process, at least one processor calculates the first index based on the number of passengers entering and exiting each boarding and alighting facility defining the operating section for each operating time period.

[0122] (Note D5) The information processing apparatus according to any one of Notes D1 to D4, wherein in the acquisition process, the at least one processor further acquires a second indicator related to each operating unit in the operating plan; in the superposition process, the at least one processor displays the line segments corresponding to each operating unit in the diagram image in a manner corresponding to the second indicator; and in the update process, the at least one processor updates the display manner of the line segments when the second indicator changes in accordance with the editing of the operating plan.

[0123] (Note D6) The information processing apparatus according to any one of Notes D1 to D5, wherein the at least one processor further performs an alert presentation process that presents an alert regarding an area in the heatmap image that does not meet a predetermined criterion for the first indicator.

[0124] (Note D7) The information processing apparatus according to any one of Notes D1 to D6, wherein the at least one processor further performs a revision proposal process to present a revised version of the operation plan, and in the update process, the at least one processor updates one or both of the diagram image and the heatmap image in accordance with the revision of the operation plan performed based on the user's operation to accept the revised version.

[0125] (Note D8) The information processing apparatus according to any one of Notes D1 to D7, wherein in the acquisition process, the at least one processor acquires multiple types of the first indicators, and in the superposition process, the at least one processor superimposes and displays the diagram image and a heatmap image corresponding to each of the multiple types of the first indicators.

[0126] [Addendum E] This disclosure includes the technologies described in the following addendums. However, the present invention is not limited to the technologies described in the following addendums, and various modifications are possible within the scope of the claims.

[0127] (Appendix E1) A non-temporary recording medium on which a program is stored that causes a computer to function as an information processing device, the program to record: an acquisition process that acquires a transportation service operation plan and a first indicator corresponding to the operating time and section of the operation; an overlay process that displays a diagram image showing the operation plan and a heatmap image showing the first indicator superimposed on a display unit; and an update process that updates one or both of the diagram image and the heatmap image in response to editing of the operation plan based on user operations.

[0128] 1.1A Information Processing Device 11 Acquisition Unit 12 Overlay Unit 13 Update Unit 14 Alert Presentation Unit 15 Correction Proposal Presentation Unit 16 Operation Plan Generation Unit 17 Editing UI Unit 110 Control Unit 120 Storage Unit 130 Communication Unit 140 Input Unit 150 Display Unit C1 Processor C2 Memory

Claims

1. An information processing device comprising: an acquisition means for acquiring a first indicator corresponding to the operation plan of a transportation service, the operating time, and the operating section; an overlay means for displaying a diagram image showing the operation plan and a heatmap image showing the first indicator superimposed on a display unit; and an update means for updating one or both of the diagram image and the heatmap image in response to editing of the operation plan based on user operation.

2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the first indicator is an indicator that can change in accordance with changes in the operation plan, and the updating means updates at least the heat map image in accordance with editing of the operation plan.

3. The information processing device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first indicator is demand, importance, congestion, or operating cost according to the operating time and operating section.

4. The information processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the acquisition means calculates the first index based on the number of passengers entering and exiting each boarding and alighting facility defining the operating section for each operating time period.

5. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the acquisition means further acquires a second indicator related to each operating unit in the operating plan, the superimposing means displays the line segments corresponding to each operating unit in the diagram image in a manner corresponding to the second indicator, and the updating means updates the display manner of the line segments when the second indicator changes in accordance with the editing of the operating plan.

6. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising: an alert presentation means for presenting an alert regarding an area in the heatmap image that does not meet a predetermined criterion for the first indicator.

7. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising a means for presenting a revised operation plan, wherein the update means updates one or both of the diagram image and the heatmap image in accordance with the revision of the operation plan performed based on the user's operation to accept the revised plan.

8. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the acquisition means acquires a plurality of types of the first indicators, and the superimposing means superimposes and displays the diagram image and a heatmap image corresponding to each of the plurality of types of the first indicators.

9. An information processing method comprising: an acquisition process in which at least one processor performs: an acquisition process to acquire a transportation service operation plan and a first indicator corresponding to the operating time and operating section; an overlay process to display a diagram image showing the operation plan and a heatmap image showing the first indicator superimposed on a display unit; and an update process to update one or both of the diagram image and the heatmap image in response to editing of the operation plan based on user operation.

10. A program that causes a computer to function as an information processing device, wherein the computer functions as: an acquisition means for acquiring a first indicator corresponding to the operation plan of a transportation system, the operating time, and the operating section; an overlay means for displaying a diagram image showing the operation plan and a heatmap image showing the first indicator superimposed on a display unit; and an update means for updating one or both of the diagram image and the heatmap image in response to editing of the operation plan based on user operations.

Images