Information processing apparatus, information processing method, and recording medium

Abstract

An information processing apparatus according to the present disclosure comprises an acquisition unit, a processing unit, and an authentication unit. The acquisition unit wirelessly communicates with a portable device carried by a subject who has passed through a first checkpoint, and acquires first identification information stored in the portable device. The processing unit acquires, from within a first database in which the first identification information and authentication information of a plurality of legitimate users are registered in association with each other, authentication information registered in association with the acquired first identification information, and stores the acquired authentication information in a second database. The authentication unit performs processing for authenticating the subject by verifying the authentication information stored in the second database with authentication information for verification acquired from the subject who has arrived at a second checkpoint through which the subject is to pass after the first checkpoint.

Description

Information Processing Apparatus, Information Processing Method, and Recording Medium

[0001] This disclosure relates to an information processing apparatus, an information processing method, a program, and a recording medium.

[0002] Authentication processing is performed in various scenarios such as immigration inspection and event entry management. Related technologies are disclosed in Patent Document 1. Patent Document 1 discloses technologies related to authentication processing performed in various scenarios such as immigration inspection.

[0003] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2024-12569

[0004] An example of the purpose of this disclosure is to develop technologies related to authentication processing.

[0005] According to one aspect of an example of this disclosure, acquisition means for wirelessly communicating with a portable device carried by a subject who has passed a first checkpoint and acquiring identification information stored in the portable device; processing means for acquiring the authentication information registered in association with the acquired identification information from a first database in which the identification information is registered in association with the authentication information of a plurality of legitimate users and storing the acquired authentication information in a second database; and authentication means for performing authentication processing of the subject by comparing the authentication information for verification acquired from the subject who has reached a second checkpoint that will be passed after the first checkpoint with the authentication information stored in the second database. An information processing apparatus having the above is provided.

[0006] Furthermore, according to one aspect of this disclosure, an information processing method is provided in which one or more computers wirelessly communicate with a portable device carried by a person who has passed through a first checkpoint, obtain identification information stored in the portable device, obtain the authentication information registered in association with the obtained identification information from a first database which stores the identification information and the authentication information of multiple legitimate users linked together, store the obtained authentication information in a second database, and perform authentication processing of the person by comparing the matching authentication information obtained from the person who has come to a second checkpoint, which will be passed after the first checkpoint, with the authentication information stored in the second database.

[0007] Furthermore, according to one aspect of this disclosure, a program is provided that causes a computer to function as: an acquisition means for wirelessly communicating with a portable device carried by a person who has passed a first checkpoint and acquiring identification information stored in the portable device; a processing means for acquiring the authentication information registered in association with the acquired identification information from a first database which stores the identification information and the authentication information of multiple legitimate users in association, and storing the acquired authentication information in a second database; and an authentication means for performing authentication processing of the person by comparing the matching authentication information acquired from the person who has come to a second checkpoint, which will be passed after the first checkpoint, with the authentication information stored in the second database.

[0008] This example of disclosure allows for the development of technologies related to authentication processing.

[0009] Figure 1 is a diagram showing an example of a functional block diagram of an information processing device. Figure 2 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing flow of an information processing device. Figure 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of an information processing device usage scenario. Figure 4 is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of an information processing device. Figure 5 is a diagram schematically showing an example of information processed by an information processing device. Figure 6 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the first checkpoint. Figure 7 is a diagram illustrating another example of an information processing device usage scenario. Figure 8 is a diagram showing another example of a functional block diagram of an information processing device. Figure 9 is a diagram showing another example of the configuration of the first checkpoint. Figure 10 is a diagram schematically showing another example of information processed by an information processing device. Figure 11 is a flowchart showing another example of the processing flow of an information processing device.

[0010] The embodiments of this disclosure will be described below with reference to the drawings. In this disclosure, the drawings are associated with one or more embodiments. In all drawings, similar components are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions are omitted where appropriate.

[0011] <<First Embodiment>> Figure 1 is a functional block diagram showing an overview of the information processing device 10. Figure 2 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing flow executed by the information processing device 10.

[0012] As shown in Figure 1, the information processing device 10 includes an acquisition unit 11, a processing unit 12, an authentication unit 13, a first database 14, and a second database 15. These functional units execute the processes shown in the flowchart of Figure 2.

[0013] The information processing device 10 does not necessarily have to have at least one of the first database 14 and the second database 15. In this case, an external device configured to communicate with the information processing device 10 has at least one of the first database 14 and the second database 15. This premise is the same in all the following embodiments.

[0014] In S10, the acquisition unit 11 wirelessly communicates with the mobile device carried by the subject who has passed the first checkpoint and acquires the identification information stored in the mobile device. In S11, the processing unit 12 acquires the authentication information registered in association with the identification information acquired in S10 from the first database 14, which stores the authentication information of multiple legitimate users and the identification information stored in the mobile device carried by each user. The processing unit 12 then stores the acquired authentication information in the second database 15. In S12, the authentication unit 13 performs authentication processing of the subject by comparing the matching authentication information acquired from the subject who has come to the second checkpoint, which will be passed after the first checkpoint, with the authentication information stored in the second database 15.

[0015] Incidentally, the authentication process involves comparing the authentication information obtained from the person being authenticated with the authentication information of several legitimate users that have been registered in advance. If the number of legitimate user authentication information entries that have been registered in advance is enormous, the processing load on the computer for the authentication process becomes large. Furthermore, the longer processing time can result in a decrease in throughput.

[0016] To solve this problem, the information processing device 10 retrieves some authentication information from the first database 14, which stores the authentication information of multiple legitimate users, and registers the retrieved authentication information in the second database 15. The information processing device 10 then performs authentication processing by comparing the matching authentication information obtained from the target person with the authentication information of multiple legitimate users registered in the second database 15.

[0017] With this information processing device 10, the target for matching the authentication information obtained from the target person can be narrowed down to "a portion" of the authentication information of multiple legitimate users that are registered in the first database 14 in advance. As a result, the processing load on the computer can be reduced compared to when "all" of the authentication information of multiple legitimate users registered in the first database 14 is used for matching. In addition, processing time is shortened, and the problem of reduced throughput is suppressed.

[0018] Furthermore, when narrowing down the target to be compared with the authentication information obtained from the target person to "a portion" of the authentication information of multiple legitimate users already registered in the first database 14, an appropriate means of narrowing down is necessary. If the means of narrowing down is inappropriate, an inconvenience may occur where authentication fails even though the target person is a legitimate user, simply because their authentication information is not registered in the second database 15. Also, if the means of narrowing down is inappropriate, it may not be possible to narrow down the number of authentication information to be registered in the second database 15 to a sufficiently small number, and a sufficient narrowing effect may not be obtained.

[0019] The information processing device 10 in this embodiment is configured to solve the aforementioned problem. The information processing device 10 performs the above-mentioned filtering by means specific to the usage scenario of the authentication process assumed in this embodiment.

[0020] In the authentication process scenario envisioned by this embodiment, as shown in Figure 3, the person subject to the authentication process will pass through a second checkpoint after passing through a first checkpoint. The person will then undergo the authentication process at the second checkpoint.

[0021] Therefore, at the first checkpoint, the information processing device 10 detects the person who has passed through it. The information processing device 10 then retrieves the authentication information of the person detected at the first checkpoint from the first database 14 and registers it in the second database 15. With such an information processing device 10, the target to be compared with the authentication information obtained from the person can be appropriately narrowed down to "a part" of the authentication information of multiple legitimate users that is registered in the first database 14 in advance.

[0022] In this method, it is necessary to detect individuals who have passed the first checkpoint with sufficient accuracy. Therefore, in this embodiment, individuals are required to carry a portable device that stores predetermined identification information. The portable device is configured to be wirelessly connected.

[0023] The information processing device 10 links the identification information stored on each subject's mobile device with the authentication information of each subject and registers them in the first database 14. Then, when a subject passes through the first checkpoint, the information processing device 10 wirelessly communicates with the mobile device to obtain the identification information stored on that mobile device. The information processing device 10 then retrieves the authentication information registered in association with the obtained identification information from the first database 14 and registers the retrieved authentication information in the second database 15.

[0024] With such an information processing device 10, it is possible to accurately detect individuals who have passed the first checkpoint, retrieve their authentication information from the first database 14, and register it in the second database 15.

[0025] Such an information processing device 10 can be used to advance technologies related to authentication processing.

[0026] <<Second Embodiment>> <Overview> The information processing device 10 of the second embodiment is a concrete implementation of the configuration of the information processing device 10 of the first embodiment. It will be described in detail below.

[0027] <Hardware Configuration> First, an example of the hardware configuration of the information processing device 10 will be described. Each functional unit of the information processing device 10 is realized by any combination of hardware and software. Those skilled in the art will understand that there are various variations in the implementation method and the device. The software includes programs that are pre-installed at the time of shipment of the device, as well as programs downloaded from recording media such as CDs (Compact Discs) or from servers on the Internet.

[0028] Figure 4 is a block diagram illustrating the hardware configuration of the information processing device 10. As shown in Figure 4, the information processing device 10 includes a processor 1A, memory 2A, input / output interface 3A, peripheral circuitry 4A, and bus 5A. The peripheral circuitry 4A includes various modules. The information processing device 10 does not necessarily have peripheral circuitry 4A. The information processing device 10 may also be composed of multiple physically and / or logically separated devices. In this case, each of the multiple devices may have the above hardware configuration.

[0029] Bus 5A is a data transmission path for the processor 1A, memory 2A, peripheral circuit 4A, and input / output interface 3A to send and receive data to and from each other. The processor 1A is a processing unit such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or GPU (Graphics Processing Unit). Memory 2A is a memory such as RAM (Random Access Memory) or ROM (Read Only Memory). The input / output interface 3A includes interfaces for acquiring information from input devices, external devices, external servers, external sensors, cameras, etc., and interfaces for outputting information to output devices, external devices, external servers, etc. The input / output interface 3A also includes interfaces for connecting to a communication network such as the Internet. Input devices include, for example, a keyboard, mouse, microphone, physical buttons, touch panel, etc. Output devices include, for example, a display, projection device, speaker, printer, mailer, etc. The processor 1A can issue commands to each module and perform calculations based on their calculation results.

[0030] <Prerequisites> Here, we will explain the usage scenario of the authentication process envisioned by this embodiment. In the usage scenario of the authentication process envisioned by this embodiment, as shown in Figure 3, the person subject to the authentication process will pass through the first checkpoint and then pass through the second checkpoint. The person will then undergo authentication at the second checkpoint. A person who succeeds in authentication at the second checkpoint can pass through the second checkpoint and proceed further. A person who fails authentication at the second checkpoint cannot pass through the second checkpoint.

[0031] Note that Figure 3 is a conceptual diagram, and the actual configuration of the location is not limited to the example shown. The first and second checkpoints may be connected by a non-branching passage as shown in Figure 3, or they may have other configurations. For example, there may be toilets, shops, rest areas, etc. between the first and second checkpoints, or there may be branching passages. It is sufficient that the configuration ensures that the first checkpoint is passed before reaching the second checkpoint. This configuration may be realized by the structure of the building or facility. Alternatively, it may be realized by establishing a rule in advance that the first checkpoint must be passed before reaching the second checkpoint, and imposing that rule on the participants.

[0032] Participants may reach the first and second checkpoints on foot. Alternatively, participants may reach the first and second checkpoints by traveling by means of a vehicle. Examples of vehicles include, but are not limited to, four-wheeled vehicles, motorcycles, buses, trucks, other large vehicles, and bicycles.

[0033] The authentication process of this embodiment can be used in various situations, such as immigration screening or access control to facilities or designated areas. Immigration screening includes immigration screening conducted at airports and ports, as well as immigration screening conducted upon entry by land.

[0034] <Functional Configuration> Next, the functional configuration of the information processing device 10 will be described in detail. Figure 1 is an example of a functional block diagram of the information processing device 10. As shown in the figure, the information processing device 10 has an acquisition unit 11, a processing unit 12, an authentication unit 13, a first database 14, and a second database 15.

[0035] The first database 14 stores the authentication information of multiple legitimate users, linked to the identification information stored on the mobile device carried by each user. The registration of information in the first database 14 is achieved in advance through operations by an operator or registration work by a legitimate user. User registration work includes, but is not limited to, using an application or entering information from a registration screen provided on a designated web page.

[0036] The second database 15, like the first database 14, stores authentication information for multiple legitimate users linked to identification information stored on the mobile devices carried by each user. However, the second database 15 stores information for only some of the users among the information of multiple users registered in the first database 14. In this respect, the first database 14 and the second database 15 are different. The registration of information in the second database 15 is achieved by processing by the processing unit 12. The processing unit 12 retrieves some of the information registered in the first database 14 and registers it in the second database 15. Details of the processing by the processing unit 12 will be described later.

[0037] A "portable device" is a portable device having at least a storage means and a wireless communication means. A portable device may also have a function that enables positioning of its own location. Examples of such portable devices include, but are not limited to, electronic tags, smartphones, tablet devices, mobile phones, personal computers, smartwatches, and other wearable devices. While there are various types of electronic tags, high-precision positioning can be achieved, for example, by using UWB (Ultra-Wideband) tags.

[0038] "Identification information stored on a mobile device" is information that allows legitimate users to identify each other. Hereinafter, identification information stored on a mobile device may be referred to as "first identification information." First identification information may be user identification information assigned to each user. Alternatively, first identification information may be identification information (device identification information) unique to the mobile device carried by each user. For example, if the mobile device is an electronic tag such as a UWB tag, the tag identification information registered on the electronic tag may be used as first identification information.

[0039] "Authentication information" is the information that is used for verification in the authentication process. Authentication information may be biometric information, or it may be information consisting of numbers and letters, such as a password or passcode. Examples of biometric information include, but are not limited to, facial information, fingerprint information, palm print information, iris information, vein information, voiceprint information, auricle information, and ocular blood vessel information.

[0040] Figure 5 shows an example of information registered in the first database 14 and the second database 15. In the example in Figure 5, the first identification information and authentication information are registered in association with each other. Note that only the authentication information of one user is permitted to be registered for one first identification information. It is not possible to register the authentication information of multiple users in association with one first identification information. For example, when registering new information in the first database 14, duplicate registration can be eliminated by providing a process to determine whether the first identification information included in the new information is already registered in the first database 14.

[0041] Returning to Figure 1, the acquisition unit 11 wirelessly communicates with the mobile device carried by the person who has passed the first checkpoint and acquires the first identification information stored in the mobile device.

[0042] "Target individuals" are those who are subject to the authentication process at the second checkpoint.

[0043] The acquisition unit 11 includes a communication device that wirelessly communicates with a portable device located within the communication range. The communication device and the information processing device 10 are connected to each other in a way that allows them to communicate with one another.

[0044] As shown in FIG. 6, the communication device is installed at the first checkpoint. The communication device reaches the first checkpoint, wirelessly communicates with the mobile device 1 that has entered the communication range, and acquires the first identification information stored in the mobile device 1. Although there are various means of wireless communication between the communication device and the mobile device 1, for example, the wireless communication standard such as UWB can be used. Note that the wireless communication standard to be used is not limited to this example. FIG. 6 shows an example in which a subject (not shown) rides on a moving body, moves, and reaches the first checkpoint.

[0045] Returning to FIG. 1, the processing unit 12 acquires the authentication information registered in association with the first identification information acquired by the acquisition unit 11 from the first database 14 in which the first identification information is registered in association with the authentication information of a plurality of legitimate users. For example, the processing unit 12 searches the first database 14 using the first identification information acquired by the acquisition unit 11 as a key. Then, when the key (the first identification information) is found in the first database 14, the processing unit 12 acquires the authentication information registered in association with the key.

[0046] After acquiring the authentication information in this way, the processing unit 12 stores the acquired authentication information in the second database in association with the first identification information (key) used for the search of the authentication information. The acquisition unit 11 can generate the second database 15 in which information of some users among the information of a plurality of users registered in the first database 14 is registered by such processing.

[0047] The authentication unit 13 acquires the authentication information for verification from the subject who has reached the second checkpoint that will be passed after the first checkpoint. Then, the authentication unit 13 performs the authentication process of the subject by comparing the acquired authentication information for verification with the authentication information stored in the second database 15.

[0048] When the authentication information that matches the authentication information for verification is stored in the second database 15, the authentication unit 13 determines that the authentication is successful. On the other hand, when the authentication information that matches the authentication information for verification is not stored in the second database 15, the authentication unit 13 determines that the authentication has failed. The matching conditions are various and can be set according to the type of authentication information. For example, when the authentication information is biometric information, the matching condition can be that the similarity is equal to or greater than a threshold value. Also, when the authentication information is information composed of arranged numbers or characters, the matching condition can be an exact match.

[0049] The "authentication information for verification" is the authentication information obtained from the subject who has reached the second checkpoint. The authentication information of the same type as the authentication information registered in the first database 14 becomes the authentication information for verification.

[0050] An information acquisition device for acquiring authentication information is installed at the second checkpoint. Then, the information acquisition device acquires the authentication information for verification. The information acquisition device is configured to include, for example, input devices such as a camera, a microphone, various sensors, a touch panel, physical buttons, a keyboard, and a mouse. Note that the information acquisition device may be configured to include other input devices. The camera may detect visible light and image it, or may detect other electromagnetic waves such as infrared rays and image it. The information acquisition device and the information processing device 10 are connected to each other so as to be able to communicate.

[0051] Next, an example of the processing flow of the information processing device 10 will be described using the flowchart of FIG. 2. Here, the purpose is to describe an example of the processing flow. Since the details of each process have been described above, the description here will be omitted as appropriate.

[0052] In S10, the information processing device 10 wirelessly communicates with the mobile device carried by the person who has passed the first checkpoint and obtains the first identification information stored in the mobile device. In S11, the information processing device 10 obtains the authentication information registered in association with the first identification information obtained in S10 from the first database 14, which stores the first identification information and the authentication information of multiple legitimate users linked together. The information processing device 10 then stores the obtained authentication information in the second database 15. In S12, the information processing device 10 performs authentication processing of the person by comparing the authentication information for verification obtained from the person who has come to the second checkpoint, which will be passed after the first checkpoint, with the authentication information stored in the second database 15.

[0053] <Examples> Next, an example of the information processing device 10 will be described. Note that the example described here is merely one example, and the examples of the information processing device 10 are not limited to this example. Here, an example in which the information processing device 10 is used in the authentication process during immigration inspection when entering the country by land will be described.

[0054] Individuals entering the country by land (hereinafter referred to as "the person concerned") register their passport information in the first database 14 in advance (before immigration inspection). Specifically, the person concerned registers in the first database 14, linking their passport information with the first identification information stored on their portable device. The passport information includes facial information. In this embodiment, the facial information serves as authentication information. Facial information is a concept that includes at least one of a facial photograph and appearance features extracted from the facial photograph. The passport information may include name, date of birth, passport number, passport expiration date, signature, etc. The registration process may include, but is not limited to, using an application or entering information from a registration screen provided on a designated webpage.

[0055] After the registration process, the person proceeds to an immigration inspection area. As shown in Figure 3, the inspection area has a second checkpoint where authentication processing takes place, and a first checkpoint that the person passes through before the second checkpoint. For example, the person can travel by vehicle and reach the first and second checkpoints in that order.

[0056] As shown in Figure 6, a communication device is installed at the first checkpoint. The information processing device 10 communicates wirelessly with the portable device 1 carried by the person who has reached the first checkpoint via the communication device and obtains the first identification information stored in the portable device 1.

[0057] Furthermore, the subject can pass through the first checkpoint while remaining on the mobile vehicle. While the subject is passing through the first checkpoint on the mobile vehicle, the information processing device 10 can acquire the first identification information from the mobile device 1 via the communication device. In other words, the subject does not need to stop the mobile vehicle or dismount in order to input the first identification information into the information processing device 10. Therefore, the subject's first identification information can be acquired without reducing throughput.

[0058] Subsequently, the information processing device 10 (processing unit 12) retrieves the passport information registered in association with the acquired first identification information from the first database 14, which stores the passport information including authentication information (facial information) and the first identification information in association. Then, the information processing device 10 stores the acquired passport information in the second database 15.

[0059] After passing the first checkpoint, the subject proceeds to the second checkpoint. A camera is installed at the second checkpoint. This camera captures the face of the subject upon reaching the second checkpoint. The resulting facial image of the subject becomes the authentication information used for verification.

[0060] The information processing device 10 performs authentication processing of the subject by comparing the acquired authentication information for matching with the authentication information (face information) stored in the second database 15. If authentication information that matches the authentication information for matching is stored in the second database 15, the information processing device 10 determines that authentication is successful. On the other hand, if authentication information that matches the authentication information for matching is not stored in the second database 15, the information processing device 10 determines that authentication is unsuccessful.

[0061] The second checkpoint may have a gate whose opening and closing is controlled by a control signal (electrical signal). If the information processing device 10 determines that authentication is successful, it inputs a control signal to open the gate, causing the gate to open. As a result, the person can pass through the gate and proceed.

[0062] On the other hand, if authentication fails, the information processing device 10 does not input a control signal to open the gate to the gate. As a result, the gate remains closed. In this case, the information processing device 10 can perform error processing. Examples of error processing include, but are not limited to, illuminating a warning lamp installed at the second checkpoint or outputting a warning sound from a speaker installed at the second checkpoint.

[0063] <Effects and Effects> The information processing device 10 of the second embodiment can achieve the same effects and effects as the information processing device 10 of the first embodiment.

[0064] Furthermore, the information processing device 10 can be used in the authentication process during immigration inspection. With such an information processing device 10, the amount of authentication information to be verified in the authentication process during immigration inspection can be reduced, thereby reducing the processing load on the computer. In addition, the time required for processing can be shortened, and a decrease in throughput can be suppressed.

[0065] <<Third Embodiment>> <Overview> Authentication processing is performed in various situations such as immigration screening and event entry management. If the person concerned registers their authentication information in the information processing device 10 in advance, the authentication processing can be performed by computer. However, there are also people who do not perform this prior registration.

[0066] For individuals who have not registered their authentication information in advance, authentication will be performed by other means. For example, individuals who have not registered their authentication information in advance may be authenticated by a staff member through visual inspection. In addition, authentication may be performed for individuals who have not registered their authentication information in advance in the following way: First, the individual who has not registered their authentication information in advance will input their passport information into a designated terminal device by, for example, having their passport read by the terminal device. The terminal device then performs authentication by comparing the facial photograph taken of the individual who performed the passport reading with the passport information. Note that other photo identification documents such as a driver's license or My Number Card may be used instead of a passport.

[0067] Thus, the authentication process performed on individuals who have registered their authentication information in advance differs from the authentication process performed on individuals who have not registered their authentication information in advance. Despite this, processing these individuals in the same lane can lead to a decrease in throughput.

[0068] Therefore, in this embodiment, at the second checkpoint where authentication processing is performed, a priority lane is provided for individuals whose authentication information has been registered in advance, and a non-priority lane is provided for individuals whose authentication information has not been registered in advance. The information processing device 10 then guides each individual to the appropriate lane according to the detection result at the first checkpoint.

[0069] In this embodiment, subjects can travel by riding in a mobile vehicle and reach the first and second checkpoints. In this case, it is possible that multiple subjects may be riding in the mobile vehicle. Furthermore, it is possible that among the multiple subjects riding in the same mobile vehicle, there may be a mix of subjects who have registered their authentication information in advance and those who have not. The information processing device 10 can guide each subject to the appropriate lane using appropriate means that take such situations into consideration. This will be explained in detail below.

[0070] <Hardware Configuration> An example of the hardware configuration of the information processing device 10 is the same as the hardware configuration of the information processing device 10 described in the second embodiment.

[0071] <Prerequisites> Here, we will explain the usage scenario of the authentication process envisioned in this embodiment. In the usage scenario of the authentication process envisioned in this embodiment, as shown in Figure 7, the person subject to the authentication process will pass through the first checkpoint, then through the guidance point, and then through the second checkpoint. The person will then undergo authentication at the second checkpoint. A person who succeeds in authentication at the second checkpoint can pass through the second checkpoint and proceed further. A person who fails authentication at the second checkpoint cannot pass through the second checkpoint.

[0072] At the second checkpoint, priority lanes and non-priority lanes are provided. The information processing device 10 guides the subject to either the priority lane or the non-priority lane at the guidance point after passing the first checkpoint. The subject then undergoes authentication in the lane to which they are guided.

[0073] Note that Figure 7 is a conceptual diagram, and the actual configuration of the location is not limited to the example shown. The first checkpoint and the guidance point, and the guidance point and the second checkpoint may be connected by a non-branching passage as shown in Figure 7, or they may be configured in other ways. For example, there may be toilets, shops, rest areas, etc. between these points, or there may be branching passages. It is sufficient that the configuration ensures that the guidance point is passed before reaching the second checkpoint, and the first checkpoint is passed before reaching the guidance point. This configuration may be realized by the structure of the building or facility. Alternatively, it may be realized by establishing a rule in advance that the guidance point must be passed before reaching the second checkpoint, and the first checkpoint must be passed before reaching the guidance point, and imposing this rule on the target person.

[0074] Figure 7 shows two lanes leading to the first checkpoint: one priority lane and one non-priority lane. However, the number of these lanes is not limited to the example shown.

[0075] Participants can travel by vehicle to reach the first checkpoint, the guidance point, and the second checkpoint. Examples of vehicles include, but are not limited to, four-wheeled vehicles, motorcycles, buses, trucks, other large vehicles, and bicycles.

[0076] The authentication process of this embodiment can be used in various situations, such as immigration screening or access control to facilities or designated areas. Immigration screening includes immigration screening conducted at airports and ports, as well as immigration screening conducted upon entry by land.

[0077] <Functional Configuration> Next, the functional configuration of the information processing device 10 will be described in detail. Figure 8 is an example of a functional block diagram of the information processing device 10. As shown in the figure, the information processing device 10 includes an acquisition unit 11, a processing unit 12, an authentication unit 13, a first database 14, a second database 15, a identification unit 16, an estimation unit 17, and a guidance unit 18.

[0078] The acquisition unit 11 acquires various information about the subject who has passed the first checkpoint. Specifically, the acquisition unit 11 acquires the following information: (Information 1) First identification information stored in the mobile device carried by the subject who has passed the first checkpoint (Information 2) Location information of the mobile device carried by the subject who has passed the first checkpoint (Information 3) Vehicle number information of the target vehicle in which the subject who has passed the first checkpoint is riding (Information 4) Images taken of the interior of the target vehicle

[0079] The following describes the means of obtaining each piece of information.

[0080] The acquisition unit 11, which is the "means for acquiring information 1," can acquire information 1 using the means described in the second embodiment.

[0081] The acquisition unit 11, which is a means for acquiring information 2, can acquire location information of a mobile device using widely known technologies such as TDoA (Time Difference of Arrival) and ToF (Time of Flight). The mobile device may be an electronic tag such as a UWB tag. By using a UWB tag, the location of the mobile device can be determined with a sufficiently small detection error.

[0082] For example, as shown in Figure 9, two communication devices are installed at the first checkpoint. The two communication devices communicate wirelessly with a portable device carried by a person who has reached the first checkpoint. The acquisition unit 11 can acquire location information of the portable device 1 by utilizing the results of communication between the two communication devices (such as the difference in the arrival times of radio waves). In this case, the location information can indicate the position of the portable device in coordinates in a coordinate system based on the communication device (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the "communication device coordinate system").

[0083] "Means for acquiring information 3" The "target moving object" is a moving object that reaches each checkpoint and is the target of processing at each checkpoint. One or more target persons are riding in the target moving object. The checkpoint is a concept that includes the first checkpoint, guidance point, and second checkpoint.

[0084] "Vehicle license plate information" is the information displayed on the license plate of the target moving object. This vehicle license plate information allows multiple target moving objects to be identified from each other.

[0085] As shown in Figure 9, a camera is installed at the first checkpoint to photograph the license plate of the target mobile object 2. The acquisition unit 11 acquires the image generated by the camera. The acquisition unit 11 then analyzes the image and identifies the information indicated on the license plate, thereby acquiring the vehicle license plate information of the target mobile object 2. The camera and the information processing device 10 are connected to each other so as to be able to communicate with each other.

[0086] “Means for acquiring information 4” As shown in Figure 9, at the first checkpoint, a camera is installed to photograph the inside of the target moving object 2. The acquisition unit 11 acquires the image generated by the camera. The camera and the information processing device 10 are connected to each other so as to be able to communicate with each other.

[0087] In the example shown in Figure 9, one camera is installed, but the number of cameras installed is not limited to this example. For example, a separate camera may be installed to photograph the license plate of the target mobile object 2 and another camera to photograph the interior of the target mobile object 2.

[0088] Furthermore, the subject can pass through the first checkpoint while remaining on the mobile device. While the subject is passing through the first checkpoint on the mobile device, the acquisition unit 11 can acquire the information 1 to 4 as described above. In other words, the subject does not need to dismount from the mobile device or perform any other action to input the information 1 to 4 into the information processing device 10. Therefore, the information 1 to 4 can be acquired without reducing throughput.

[0089] Returning to Figure 8, the identification unit 16 identifies the number of mobile devices present in the target moving object that has passed the first checkpoint, based on the location information (information 2) of the mobile devices.

[0090] Specifically, the identification unit 16 identifies how many portable devices are present in each target mobile body passing through the first checkpoint. Then, as shown in Figure 10, the identification unit 16 registers the number of portable devices present in each target mobile body in a predetermined storage device, linked to the vehicle number information of each target mobile body. The predetermined storage device may be provided within the information processing device 10, or it may be provided in an external device configured to communicate with the information processing device 10. This premise regarding the predetermined storage device is the same in all the following embodiments.

[0091] There are various means for determining the number of mobile devices present in each target mobile object. In one example, as shown in Figure 9, at the first checkpoint, the target mobile object 2 is photographed to obtain vehicle license plate information, and at the same time, a communication device wirelessly communicates with mobile device 1 to obtain location information of mobile device 1. Then, based on the location information of mobile device 1 determined at this timing, the identification unit 16 can determine the number of mobile devices 1 present in the target mobile object 2 at the first checkpoint at that time.

[0092] For example, the identification unit 16 calculates the distance between mobile devices 1 based on the location information of the mobile devices 1. The identification unit 16 can then identify multiple mobile devices 1 whose distance is within a threshold as mobile devices 1 located within the same target moving object 2.

[0093] Furthermore, as shown in the example in Figure 9, if the communication device is fixed at a predetermined position at the first checkpoint, the coordinate system of the communication device is also fixed. For this reason, the position of the target mobile object 2, which will be photographed by the camera installed at the first checkpoint, can be specified in advance in the coordinate system of the communication device, and this specified information can be registered in the information processing device 10. The identification unit 16 then compares the position information of the mobile device 1 acquired at the time the target mobile object 2 is photographed by the camera with the position indicated by the specified information, thereby identifying the mobile device 1 that is located at the position indicated by the specified information at that time. The identification unit 16 can then identify the identified mobile device 1 as a mobile device 1 located within the target mobile object 2. Note that the method described here is merely an example and is not limited to this example.

[0094] Returning to Figure 8, the estimation unit 17 estimates the number of passengers on the target moving object based on the image (information 4) taken of the target moving object.

[0095] Specifically, the estimation unit 17 estimates the number of passengers in each target vehicle as it passes through the first checkpoint. Then, as shown in Figure 10, the estimation unit 17 registers the estimated number of passengers for each target vehicle in a predetermined storage device, linked to the vehicle number information of each target vehicle. In one example, as shown in Figure 9, the target vehicle 2 is photographed at the first checkpoint to obtain vehicle number information, and at the same time, the interior of the target vehicle 2 is photographed to generate an image. The estimation unit 17 then analyzes this image to estimate the number of passengers and registers it, linked to the vehicle number information identified based on the image taken at the same time.

[0096] Furthermore, the technique of estimating the number of passengers in a vehicle using image analysis is widely known. The estimation unit 17 can use this technique to estimate the number of passengers in a target moving object. For example, the estimation unit 17 detects the area in the image in which the target moving object is visible, and then detects people within the detected area. The estimation unit 17 can then estimate the number of people detected as the number of passengers in that target moving object.

[0097] The guidance unit 18 determines, for each target moving object, whether the number of mobile devices identified by the identification unit 16 matches the number of passengers estimated by the estimation unit 17. Then, the guidance unit 18 guides each target moving object along a route corresponding to the determination result.

[0098] Specifically, the guidance unit 18 guides target vehicles to a priority lane if the number of mobile devices identified by the identification unit 16 matches the number of passengers estimated by the estimation unit 17.

[0099] The guidance unit 18 then guides any target vehicle whose number of mobile devices identified by the identification unit 16 does not match the number of passengers estimated by the estimation unit 17 to a non-priority lane where authentication processing is performed by a different method than that used for priority lanes.

[0100] In the "priority lane," authentication processing is performed by the authentication unit 13 using the second database 15. Details of the authentication processing by the authentication unit 13 using the second database 15 are as described in the second embodiment.

[0101] In "non-priority lanes," authentication is performed using different methods than in priority lanes. The configuration of the authentication process in non-priority lanes varies. For example, in non-priority lanes, authentication may be performed by visual inspection by an attendant. In addition, terminal devices may be installed in non-priority lanes. Each person enters their passport information into the terminal device by, for example, having their passport read by the terminal device. The terminal device then performs authentication by comparing the passport information with a facial photograph taken of the person who performed the passport reading process. Note that other photo identification documents such as a driver's license or My Number Card may be used instead of a passport.

[0102] Next, the means for guiding the target vehicle into each lane will be described. In one example, an information providing device is installed at the guidance point. A camera for photographing the target vehicle is also installed at the guidance point. The guidance unit 18 analyzes the image captured by this camera to identify the vehicle number information of the target vehicle that has arrived at the guidance point. Next, the guidance unit 18 refers to the information shown in Figure 10 to obtain a determination result for that target vehicle. The determination result is whether or not the number of portable devices identified by the identification unit 16 matches the number of passengers estimated by the estimation unit 17. Then, based on the determination result, the guidance unit 18 determines the lane to guide the target vehicle and outputs information indicating the lane to guide it to to the information providing device.

[0103] The information providing device may be a display. The guidance unit 18 may display information on the display indicating the lane the target moving object should proceed in. In addition, lamps may be installed at the entrances to the priority lane and non-priority lane beyond the guidance point. For example, the lamps may include a lamp of a color indicating no entry (e.g., a red lamp) and a lamp of a color indicating entry (e.g., a blue lamp). The guidance unit 18 may then light up the lamp of the color indicating entry (e.g., a blue lamp) at the entrance to the lane to which the target moving object is guided, and light up the lamp of the color indicating no entry (e.g., a red lamp) at the entrance to the lane to which the target moving object is not guided.

[0104] In addition, gates controlled by control signals (electrical signals) may be installed at the entrances to the priority and non-priority lanes beyond the guidance point. The guidance unit 18 may open the gates of the lanes to which the target moving object is guided and close the gates of the lanes to which the target moving object is not guided.

[0105] Next, an example of the processing flow of the information processing device 10 will be explained using the flowchart in Figure 11. Note that the purpose here is to explain just one example of the processing flow. Details of each process have been described above, so explanations will be omitted here as appropriate.

[0106] In S20, the information processing device 10 wirelessly communicates with a mobile device carried by a person who has passed the first checkpoint and obtains the location information of the mobile device. In S21, based on the location information of the mobile device obtained in S20, the information processing device 10 identifies the number of mobile devices present in the target mobile vehicle that has passed the first checkpoint. In S22, the information processing device 10 obtains an image of the target mobile vehicle that has passed the first checkpoint. In S23, the information processing device 10 analyzes the image obtained in S22 and estimates the number of passengers in the target mobile vehicle. In S24, the information processing device 10 determines whether the number of mobile devices identified in S21 matches the number of passengers estimated in S23, and guides the target mobile vehicle to a route according to the determination result.

[0107] Furthermore, the information processing device 10 can perform the flow shown in Figure 2, which was described in the second embodiment, in a separate flow from the said process.

[0108] Other configurations of the information processing device 10 can be the same as those in the first and second embodiments.

[0109] <Modification> A modification of the third embodiment will now be described. The information processing device 10 does not necessarily have a processing unit 12 and a second database 15. In this case, the authentication unit 13 that performs the authentication process in the priority lane authenticates the subject using the authentication information registered in the first database 14 as the target for verification.

[0110] <Effects and Effects> The information processing device 10 of the third embodiment can achieve the same effects and effects as the information processing device 10 of the first and second embodiments. In addition, the third embodiment provides a priority lane for users who have registered their authentication information in advance and a non-priority lane for users who have not registered their authentication information in advance. The information processing device 10 then guides each user to the appropriate lane according to the detection result at the first checkpoint. With such an information processing device 10, a decrease in throughput can be suppressed.

[0111] In the third embodiment, the subjects can travel by riding in a mobile vehicle to reach the first and second checkpoints. In this case, it is possible that multiple subjects will be riding in the mobile vehicle. Furthermore, it is possible that among the multiple subjects riding in the same mobile vehicle, there will be a mix of subjects who have registered their authentication information in advance and those who have not. The information processing device 10 can guide each subject to the appropriate lane using appropriate means that take such situations into consideration.

[0112] Specifically, the information processing device 10 identifies the number of mobile devices present in the target vehicle based on the location information of the mobile devices. The information processing device 10 also estimates the number of passengers in the target vehicle by analyzing images taken of the vehicle. The information processing device 10 then guides the target vehicle to a priority lane if the number of mobile devices identified matches the estimated number of passengers. The information processing device 10 then guides the target vehicle to a non-priority lane if the number of mobile devices identified does not match the estimated number of passengers.

[0113] If the number of identified mobile devices is less than the estimated number of passengers, it means that some of the passengers on the vehicle do not have a mobile device. These passengers are likely not carrying a mobile device because they have not registered their authentication information beforehand. Furthermore, even if a passenger had registered their authentication information beforehand, if they do not have a mobile device, their authentication information will not be registered in the second database 15. Therefore, the authentication by the authentication unit 13 fails. This authentication failure leads to verification by staff, reducing throughput. The information processing device 10 can mitigate this reduction in throughput in the priority lane by guiding such vehicles to a non-priority lane.

[0114] Furthermore, if the number of identified mobile devices exceeds the estimated number of passengers, it is possible that some of the passengers on the vehicle are taking actions such as hiding to avoid being seen (photographed) from the outside. The information processing device 10 can suppress the decrease in throughput of the priority lane by guiding the vehicle, which may be engaging in such suspicious behavior, to a non-priority lane.

[0115] <<Fourth Embodiment>> In the fourth embodiment, multiple non-priority lanes are provided according to at least one of the vehicle type and the number of passengers of the target vehicle. The information processing device 10 can then guide the target vehicle to be guided to a non-priority lane to an appropriate non-priority lane among the multiple non-priority lanes. This will be explained in detail below.

[0116] In the fourth embodiment, there are multiple non-priority lanes corresponding to at least one of the vehicle type and the number of passengers of the target moving object.

[0117] For example, non-priority lanes may include the following types of lanes. In this example, the vehicle types include motorcycles, automobiles, and other large vehicles. • Lanes for motorcycles or automobiles with one passenger • Lanes for motorcycles or automobiles with multiple passengers • Lanes for other large vehicles

[0118] The above classification examples for non-priority lanes are merely examples and are not limited to them. Other examples of non-priority lanes may include the following lanes. In this example, the vehicle types include motorcycles, automobiles, and other large vehicles. • Lanes for motorcycles • Lanes for automobiles with one passenger • Lanes for automobiles with multiple passengers • Lanes for other large vehicles

[0119] The estimation unit 17 estimates at least one of the vehicle type and the number of passengers of the target vehicle based on the image of the target vehicle taken at the first checkpoint. The estimation of the vehicle type can be exemplified by, but is not limited to, the use of a classifier generated by machine learning. Techniques for estimating the number of passengers in a vehicle using image analysis are widely known. The estimation unit 17 can use such techniques to estimate the number of passengers in the target vehicle. For example, the estimation unit 17 detects the area in the image in which the target vehicle is pictured and detects people within the detected area. The estimation unit 17 can then estimate the number of people detected as the number of passengers in the target vehicle.

[0120] The guidance unit 18 guides a target vehicle whose number of mobile devices identified by the identification unit 16 does not match the number of passengers estimated by the estimation unit 17 to a non-priority lane corresponding to at least one of the vehicle type and the number of passengers of the target vehicle. The means for guiding to a predetermined lane is as described in the second embodiment.

[0121] Other configurations of the information processing device 10 can be the same as those of the first to third embodiments.

[0122] The information processing device 10 of the fourth embodiment can achieve the same effects as the information processing device 10 of the first to third embodiments. In the fourth embodiment, multiple non-priority lanes are provided according to at least one of the vehicle type and the number of passengers of the target moving object. The information processing device 10 can then guide the target moving object to an appropriate non-priority lane among the multiple non-priority lanes.

[0123] In this way, by providing multiple non-priority lanes corresponding to at least one of the vehicle type and the number of passengers, and processing the vehicle in the appropriate non-priority lane, it is possible to suppress the decrease in throughput in the non-priority lanes.

[0124] <<Modifications>> Below, we will describe modifications applicable to all embodiments.

[0125] <Modification 1> The processing unit 12 can delete the information stored in the second database 15 from the second database 15 at a predetermined timing. This deletion process can suppress the inconvenience of the information stored in the second database 15 becoming enormous and increasing the computer burden in the authentication process.

[0126] Furthermore, if the authentication information is deleted too early, an inconvenience may occur where the authentication information of the subject is deleted from the second database 15 before the authentication process is performed at the second checkpoint. The information processing device 10 can delete the authentication information from the second database 15 at an appropriate timing that can mitigate such inconveniences.

[0127] In one example, the processing unit 12 manages the registration timing for storing each piece of authentication information in the second database 15. Then, the processing unit 12 deletes authentication information from the second database 15 after a predetermined time has elapsed since the registration timing.

[0128] In another example, the processing unit 12 deletes the authentication information that matched the authentication information of the subject from the second database 15, in response to the successful authentication of the subject by the authentication unit 13.

[0129] By deleting the authentication information from the second database 15 at this timing, the inconvenience of deleting the authentication information too early can be mitigated.

[0130] <Modification 2> In Modification 2, a non-priority lane is provided for individuals registered on the blacklist (hereinafter referred to as the "blacklist-only lane").

[0131] Furthermore, a blacklist is prepared in advance and stored in a designated storage device. The blacklist contains information on persons of interest. For example, the blacklist may contain the authentication information of persons of interest, the first identification information stored on the portable device carried by the person of interest, and the personal information of the person of interest (name, age, nationality, etc.). In addition, the first database 14 may store the personal information of each target person linked to their authentication information.

[0132] Based on the information described above (first identification information obtained from a mobile device, or information about the subject stored in the first database 14), the guidance unit 18 determines whether each subject detected at the first checkpoint is registered on the blacklist.

[0133] The guidance unit 18 then guides the vehicle carrying a person registered on the blacklist to the blacklist-only lane. Regardless of whether the number of mobile devices identified by the identification unit 16 matches the number of passengers estimated by the estimation unit 17, the guidance unit 18 guides the vehicle carrying a person registered on the blacklist to the blacklist-only lane.

[0134] This information processing device 10 can guide individuals registered on a blacklist to the appropriate lane. Furthermore, this guidance can suppress a decrease in throughput in other lanes.

[0135] <Modification 3> In Modification 3, the information processing device 10 has an acquisition unit 11 and a identification unit 16. The information processing device 10 may or may not have other functional units as described in the first to fourth embodiments.

[0136] In the third modification, the information processing device 10 estimates the number of passengers on the target moving object using the functions of the acquisition unit 11 and the identification unit 16. The information processing device 10 then performs processing according to the estimated result.

[0137] Specifically, the information processing device 10 is used for toll road billing. In modification 3, the toll road fee is discounted according to the number of passengers. Specifically, a discount is available if the number of passengers is above a certain threshold.

[0138] In variation 3, the occupants of the target vehicle are required to carry a portable device. Based on the results of wireless communication with the portable device, the information processing device 10 estimates the number of passengers in the target vehicle that has passed through a designated location (first checkpoint) on the toll road. The information processing device 10 then decides whether or not to apply a discount to each target vehicle based on the number of passengers, and also determines the toll road fee for each target vehicle. The designated location may be the entrance gate of the toll road, or it may be any other location that must be passed before the entrance gate.

[0139] Here, we will explain the process of estimating the number of passengers on the target moving object using the functions of the acquisition unit 11 and the identification unit 16.

[0140] The acquisition unit 11 acquires information 2 and information 3 as described in the third embodiment. The acquisition unit 11 may further include at least one of information 1 and information 4.

[0141] The identification unit 16 estimates the number of portable devices present in the target mobile vehicle based on the information 2. The information processing device 10 obtains this number as the number of passengers in the target mobile vehicle.

[0142] The information processing device 10 determines whether the number of passengers on the target vehicle meets the discount conditions. The discount conditions are, for example, that the number of passengers is above a certain threshold. If the discount conditions are met, the information processing device 10 decides to apply the discount to the target vehicle. The information processing device 10 then determines the toll for the discounted toll road based on predetermined calculation rules. There are no particular restrictions on the details of the discount or calculation rules, and any technology can be used.

[0143] Here, a modified version of the process for estimating the number of passengers on a target mobile vehicle will be described. In this example, the information processing device 10 further includes an estimation unit 17. The estimation unit 17 estimates the number of passengers on the target mobile vehicle based on an image of the target mobile vehicle. This process is as described in the third embodiment.

[0144] The information processing device 10 then estimates the number of passengers in the target mobile vehicle based on the number of portable devices present in the target mobile vehicle identified by the identification unit 16 and the number of passengers estimated by the estimation unit 17. For example, the information processing device 10 can estimate the number of passengers in the target mobile vehicle as the larger or smaller of the number of portable devices present in the target mobile vehicle identified by the identification unit 16 and the number of passengers estimated by the estimation unit 17.

[0145] The acquisition unit 11 may further acquire the information 1 described in the third embodiment. In this case, the information processing device 10 can identify the person riding in the target vehicle based on the information 1. If payment information is registered in a predetermined storage device in association with each person in advance, the information processing device 10 can determine the toll road fee for each target vehicle and then perform payment processing using the payment information of the person riding in each target vehicle. The payment information includes credit card information and electronic money information. The payment processing is the process of communicating with a predetermined payment server using this payment information and settling the toll road fee.

[0146] In this modified example 3, the number of passengers can be identified, discounts processed, and payment processed without requiring the vehicle using the toll road to stop or for passengers to disembark.

[0147] In the third modified example, at the entrance gate of the toll road, a priority lane may be provided for vehicles whose number of passengers meets the discount conditions, and a non-priority lane may be provided for vehicles whose number of passengers does not meet the discount conditions. The information processing device 10 estimates the number of passengers of the vehicles at a point that the vehicles will inevitably pass through before the entrance gate and determines the toll for the toll road. The information processing device 10 then guides vehicles that meet the discount conditions to the priority lane and vehicles that do not meet the discount conditions to the non-priority lane. The means of guidance can be the method described in the third embodiment.

[0148] Although this disclosure has been described above with reference to embodiments, this disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described above. Various modifications to the structure and details of this disclosure are possible, which can be understood by those skilled in the art within the scope of this disclosure. Furthermore, each embodiment can be combined with other embodiments as appropriate.

[0149] Furthermore, the flowchart used in the above explanation shows multiple steps (processes) in sequence. However, the execution order of the steps performed in each embodiment is not limited to the order in which they are described. In each embodiment, the order of the illustrated steps can be changed to the extent that it does not impede the content.

[0150] Some or all of the above embodiments may also be described as follows, but are not limited to the following: 1. An information processing device having: an acquisition means for wirelessly communicating with a portable device carried by a person who has passed a first checkpoint and acquiring identification information stored in the portable device; a processing means for acquiring authentication information registered in association with the acquired identification information from a first database which registers the identification information and authentication information of multiple legitimate users in association, and storing the acquired authentication information in a second database; and an authentication means for performing authentication processing of the person by comparing matching authentication information acquired from the person who has come to a second checkpoint to be passed after the first checkpoint with the authentication information stored in the second database. 2. The information processing device according to 1, wherein the processing means acquires the passport information registered in association with the acquired identification information from a first database which registers passport information including the authentication information and the identification information in association, and stores the acquired passport information in a second database. 3. The information processing apparatus according to 1 or 2, wherein the acquisition means further acquires location information of the mobile device, identifies the number of mobile devices present in the target mobile body that has passed the first checkpoint based on the location information of the mobile device, estimates the number of passengers in the target mobile body based on an image taken of the target mobile body, and guides the target mobile body to a route corresponding to the determination result, based on whether the identified number of mobile devices matches the estimated number of passengers. 4. The information processing apparatus according to 3, wherein the guide means guides the target mobile body in which the identified number of mobile devices matches the estimated number of passengers to a priority lane in which authentication processing is performed using the authentication information stored in the second database, and guides the target mobile body in which the identified number of mobile devices does not match to a non-priority lane in which authentication processing is performed by means different from the priority lane.5. The information processing device according to 4, wherein there are multiple non-priority lanes corresponding to at least one of the vehicle type and number of passengers of the target vehicle, and the guidance means guides the target vehicle in which the number of identified mobile devices does not match the estimated number of passengers to the non-priority lane corresponding to at least one of the vehicle type and number of passengers of the target vehicle. 6. The information processing device according to any one of 3 to 5, wherein the guidance means determines whether the target person is registered on a blacklist based on the identification information obtained from the mobile device or the information of the target person stored in the first database, and guides the target vehicle in which the target person registered on the blacklist is riding to a blacklist-only lane, regardless of whether the number of identified mobile devices matches the estimated number of passengers. 7. The information processing device according to any one of 1 to 6, wherein the processing means manages the registration timing for storing each of the authentication pieces of information in the second database, and deletes the authentication piece of information from the second database after a predetermined time has elapsed since the registration timing. 8. The processing means is an information processing device according to any one of 1 to 7, wherein, in response to the successful authentication of the subject, the authentication information that was matched with the matching authentication information of the subject in the authentication process is deleted from the second database. 9. An information processing method comprising: one or more computers wirelessly communicating with a portable device carried by a subject who has passed through a first checkpoint, acquiring identification information stored in the portable device, acquiring the authentication information registered in association with the acquired identification information from a first database which stores the identification information and the authentication information of multiple legitimate users in association, storing the acquired authentication information in a second database, and performing authentication processing of the subject by comparing the matching authentication information acquired from the subject who has come to a second checkpoint that will be passed after the first checkpoint with the authentication information stored in the second database.10. A program that causes a computer to function as: an acquisition means for wirelessly communicating with a portable device carried by a person who has passed a first checkpoint and acquiring identification information stored in the portable device; a processing means for acquiring the authentication information registered in association with the acquired identification information from a first database which stores the identification information and the authentication information of multiple legitimate users in association, and storing the acquired authentication information in a second database; and an authentication means for performing authentication processing of the person by comparing the matching authentication information acquired from the person who has come to a second checkpoint, which will be passed after the first checkpoint, with the authentication information stored in the second database.

[0151] Some or all of the appendices 2 to 8, which are dependent on the information processing device described in appendice 1 above, may also be dependent on the information processing method in appendice 9 and the program in appendice 10 in the same dependent relationship as between appendice 1 and appendices 2 to 8. Furthermore, within the scope of not departing from each of the embodiments described above, some or all of the configurations described as appendices can be realized in various hardware, software, various recording means for recording software, or systems.

[0152] This application claims priority based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2025-020190, filed on 10 February 2025, and incorporates all of its disclosures herein.

[0153] 10 Information processing device 11 Acquisition unit 12 Processing unit 13 Authentication unit 14 First database 15 Second database 16 Identification unit 17 Estimation unit 18 Guidance unit 1A Processor 2A Memory 3A Input / Output I / F 4A Peripheral circuit 5A Bus

Claims

1. An information processing device comprising: an acquisition means for wirelessly communicating with a mobile device carried by a person who has passed a first checkpoint and acquiring identification information stored in the mobile device; a processing means for acquiring authentication information registered in association with the acquired identification information from a first database which stores the identification information and the authentication information of multiple legitimate users in association, and storing the acquired authentication information in a second database; and an authentication means for performing authentication processing of the person by comparing authentication information for matching acquired from the person who has come to a second checkpoint, which will be passed after the first checkpoint, with the authentication information stored in the second database.

2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the processing means retrieves the passport information registered in association with the acquired identification information from the first database, which registers the passport information including the authentication information and the identification information in association, and stores the acquired passport information in the second database.

3. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the acquisition means further acquires location information of the mobile device, identifies the number of mobile devices present in the target mobile body that has passed the first checkpoint based on the location information of the mobile device, estimates the number of passengers in the target mobile body based on an image taken of the target mobile body, and guides the target mobile body to a route corresponding to the determination result, based on whether the identified number of mobile devices matches the estimated number of passengers.

4. The information processing apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the guidance means guides the target moving object whose identified number of mobile devices matches the estimated number of passengers to a priority lane where authentication processing is performed using the authentication information stored in the second database, and guides the target moving object whose identified number of mobile devices does not match the estimated number of passengers to a non-priority lane where authentication processing is performed by means different from that of the priority lane.

5. The information processing apparatus according to claim 4, wherein there are multiple non-priority lanes corresponding to at least one of the vehicle type and number of passengers of the target mobile object, and the guidance means guides the target mobile object, for which the number of identified mobile devices and the estimated number of passengers do not match, to the non-priority lane corresponding to at least one of the vehicle type and number of passengers of the target mobile object.

6. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein the guidance means determines whether the subject is registered on a blacklist based on the identification information obtained from the mobile device or the subject information stored in the first database, and guides the subject vehicle carrying the subject who is registered on the blacklist to a blacklist-only lane, regardless of whether the number of identified mobile devices matches the estimated number of passengers.

7. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the processing means manages the registration timing for storing each of the authentication pieces of information in the second database, and deletes the authentication piece of information from the second database after a predetermined time has elapsed since the registration timing.

8. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the processing means deletes the authentication information that was matched with the matching authentication information of the subject in the authentication process from the second database in response to the successful authentication of the subject.

9. An information processing method comprising: one or more computers wirelessly communicating with a portable device carried by a person who has passed a first checkpoint, obtaining identification information stored in the portable device, obtaining authentication information registered in association with the obtained identification information from a first database which stores the identification information and the authentication information of multiple legitimate users linked together, storing the obtained authentication information in a second database, and performing authentication processing of the person by comparing the matching authentication information obtained from the person who has come to a second checkpoint, which will be passed after the first checkpoint, with the authentication information stored in the second database.

10. The information processing method according to claim 9, wherein one or more computers retrieve the passport information registered in association with the acquired identification information from the first database, which registers the passport information including the authentication information and the identification information in association, and store the acquired passport information in the second database.

11. The information processing method according to claim 9 or 10, wherein one or more computers further acquire location information of the mobile devices, identify the number of mobile devices present in the target mobile body that has passed the first checkpoint based on the location information of the mobile devices, estimate the number of passengers on the target mobile body based on an image taken of the target mobile body, determine whether the identified number of mobile devices matches the estimated number of passengers, and guide the target mobile body to a route according to the determination result.

12. The information processing method according to claim 11, wherein one or more computers guide the target mobile vehicle whose identified number of mobile devices matches the estimated number of passengers to a priority lane where authentication processing is performed using the authentication information stored in the second database, and guide the target mobile vehicle whose identified number of mobile devices does not match the estimated number of passengers to a non-priority lane where authentication processing is performed by means different from that of the priority lane.

13. The information processing method according to claim 12, wherein there are multiple non-priority lanes corresponding to at least one of the vehicle type and number of passengers of the target vehicle, and one or more computers guide the target vehicle, for which the number of identified mobile devices does not match the estimated number of passengers, to the non-priority lane corresponding to at least one of the vehicle type and number of passengers of the target vehicle.

14. The information processing method according to any one of claims 11 to 13, wherein one or more computers determine whether the subject is registered on a blacklist based on the identification information obtained from the mobile device or the subject information stored in the first database, and guide the subject vehicle carrying the subject who is registered on the blacklist to a blacklist-only lane, regardless of whether the number of identified mobile devices matches the estimated number of passengers.

15. A recording medium recording a program that causes a computer to function as: an acquisition means for wirelessly communicating with a portable device carried by a person who has passed a first checkpoint and acquiring identification information stored in the portable device; a processing means for acquiring authentication information registered in association with the acquired identification information from a first database which stores the identification information and the authentication information of multiple legitimate users in association, and storing the acquired authentication information in a second database; and an authentication means for performing authentication processing of the person by comparing matching authentication information acquired from the person who has come to a second checkpoint, which will be passed after the first checkpoint, with the authentication information stored in the second database.

16. The recording medium according to claim 15, wherein the processing means retrieves the passport information registered in association with the acquired identification information from the first database, which registers the passport information including the authentication information and the identification information in association, and stores the acquired passport information in the second database.

17. The recording medium according to claim 15 or 16, wherein the acquisition means further acquires location information of the mobile device, and the program causes the computer to function as: identification means for identifying the number of mobile devices present in a target mobile body that has passed the first checkpoint based on the location information of the mobile device; estimation means for estimating the number of passengers on the target mobile body based on an image taken of the target mobile body; and guidance means for determining whether the identified number of mobile devices matches the estimated number of passengers and guiding the target mobile body to a route corresponding to the determination result.

18. The recording medium according to claim 17, wherein the guidance means guides the target moving body in which the number of identified mobile devices matches the estimated number of passengers to a priority lane in which authentication processing is performed using the authentication information stored in the second database, and guides the target moving body in which the number of identified mobile devices does not match the estimated number of passengers to a non-priority lane in which authentication processing is performed by means different from that of the priority lane.

19. The recording medium according to claim 18, wherein there are multiple non-priority lanes corresponding to at least one of the vehicle type and number of passengers of the target mobile body, and the guidance means guides the target mobile body, whose number of identified mobile devices does not match the estimated number of passengers, to the non-priority lane corresponding to at least one of the vehicle type and number of passengers of the target mobile body.

20. The recording medium according to any one of claims 17 to 19, wherein the guidance means determines whether the subject is registered on a blacklist based on the identification information obtained from the mobile device or the subject information stored in the first database, and guides the subject vehicle carrying the subject who is registered on the blacklist to a blacklist-only lane, regardless of whether the number of identified mobile devices matches the estimated number of passengers.

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