Fare Calculation Server for Shared Rides
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for calculating fares in shared rides using paid vehicles, such as taxis, are burdensome and prone to errors due to manual input of destinations and distances, leading to unfair fare distribution among users.
Innovation Solution
A server device and communication terminal system that calculates fare percentages based on actual distances traveled by users, using near field wireless communication to specify riding and drop-off positions, and calculates fair shares without increasing the burden on users or drivers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual input of destinations and distances is used to calculate fares, then the fare calculation can be performed, but the process becomes burdensome and prone to errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical input methods with automatic electronic detection systems. GPS receivers and communication terminals automatically detect and transmit position information, eliminating the need for manual input of destinations and distances. This substitution resolves the contradiction by providing both ease of operation (automatic detection) and reliability (accurate electronic data capture without human error).
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service fare calculation where the communication terminal and server automatically perform calculations based on detected position data. The server receives position information, calculates fare percentages based on distances traveled by each user, and distributes results without requiring manual intervention. This automates the entire process, improving both operational ease and calculation accuracy.
2Loss of information
If the taxi driver reports riding positions and destinations to the dispatch center, then the information is collected, but the driver's burden increases and mistakes may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The communication terminals in the vehicle and at user locations automatically perform data collection and reporting functions. The terminal detects GPS positions, determines riding positions and destinations, and transmits this information to the server without requiring the driver to manually report. This transfers the workload from the driver to the automated system, reducing the driver's burden while ensuring complete and accurate information collection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the driver's manual reporting process with automated electronic detection and communication systems. GPS receivers track positions automatically, and communication terminals transmit data electronically to the server. This substitution eliminates the need for the driver to manually input or report information, reducing workload while maintaining complete data collection.
3Productivity
If fare percentages are determined simply based on distance traveled by each user, then the calculation is straightforward, but the fare is not fairly divided when distances differ significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different calculation criteria to different portions of the journey. Instead of a uniform distance-based calculation, the server determines fare percentages by analyzing the specific riding positions and destinations of each user. The system calculates the proportion of the total journey distance that each user actually travels, allowing users who travel shorter distances to pay less. This localized, proportional approach maintains calculation speed while ensuring fair distribution based on actual usage.
4Measurement precision
If automated systems are introduced to calculate fares based on actual distances, then accuracy and fairness improve, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs universal, multi-functional components that perform multiple tasks. GPS receivers provide position data for both navigation and fare calculation. Communication terminals serve both as user interfaces and data transmission devices. The server performs both journey analysis and fare percentage calculation in a single integrated process. This multi-functionality reduces overall system complexity while maintaining high measurement precision.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system ensures accurate and fair fare distribution among users in shared rides by automating the calculation of fare percentages based on actual distances traveled, reducing errors and increasing efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a near field wireless communication device 320 for generating a signal when a distance between the vehicle 300 and a communication terminal 200B becomes a desired first distance D1 or less
Data Source
AI summary
A server device includes an identification information obtaining unit, a position information specifying unit, a storage unit, a percentage calculating unit, and a fare calculating unit. The identification information obtaining unit obtains operation identification information for identifying an operation of a vehicle and user identification information for identifying users who utilize the operation. The position information specifying unit specifies riding position information and drop off position information on the individual users. The storage unit stores the operation identification information, the user identification information, the riding position information, and the drop off position information in association with one another. The percentage calculating unit calculates percentages of an operation fare for the operation to be paid by the individual users. The fare calculating unit calculates amounts to be paid by the individual users.