JP7757693B2 - Information processing system, information processing method, and information processing program - Google Patents

Description

This disclosure relates to an information processing system, an information processing method, and an information processing program.

For example, Patent Document 1 discloses technology for dispatching taxis based on taxi operation status.

Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2003-109191

Applications for requesting rides are becoming more common on mobile communication devices such as smartphones.

For example, consider an application that displays a map showing a taxi approaching a pickup location. The actual route from the taxi's current location to the pickup location may be longer than the shortest distance shown on the map. This could result in the taxi arriving later than expected, reducing user satisfaction.

An application could be considered in which a taxi dispatch confirmed for a regular member user is cancelled and dispatched to a priority member user. This could result in a decrease in satisfaction for regular member users whose dispatches have been cancelled.

One aspect of the present disclosure is to prevent a decline in user satisfaction.

An information processing system according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a management unit that assigns mobile devices to users, and a display unit that displays to the user a map including the assigned mobile devices. After the assignment by the management unit is finalized, the display unit displays that the assignment has been finalized when predetermined conditions are met. The predetermined conditions include at least one of a route condition related to the route of the mobile device and a type condition related to the type of user.

An information processing method according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes assigning a mobile device to a user and displaying to the user a map including the assigned mobile device. The display indicates that the assignment has been confirmed after the assignment has been confirmed and if predetermined conditions are met, and the predetermined conditions include at least one of a route condition related to the route of the mobile device and a type condition related to the type of user.

An information processing program according to one aspect of the present disclosure causes a computer to execute a process of assigning a mobile device to a user and a process of displaying to the user a map including the mobile device whose assignment has been confirmed. The display process displays that the assignment has been confirmed after the assignment has been confirmed and when predetermined conditions are met, and the predetermined conditions include at least one of a route condition related to the route of the mobile device and a type condition related to the type of user.

1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a schematic configuration of an information processing system according to a first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of functional blocks of a vehicle, a user terminal, and an information processing device. 1 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process (information processing method) executed in an information processing system. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of input of vehicle dispatch request information. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a probe display. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a probe display. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a probe display. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a vehicle dispatch confirmation display. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a vehicle dispatch confirmation display. FIG. FIG. FIG. FIG. FIG. 1 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process (information processing method) executed in an information processing system. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a vehicle dispatch confirmation display. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a vehicle dispatch confirmation display. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a vehicle dispatch confirmation display. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a vehicle dispatch confirmation display. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a vehicle dispatch confirmation display. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a vehicle dispatch confirmation display. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a vehicle dispatch confirmation display. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a vehicle dispatch confirmation display. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a vehicle dispatch confirmation display. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a vehicle dispatch confirmation display. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a schematic configuration of an information processing system according to a second embodiment. 1 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process (information processing method) executed in an information processing system. 1 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process (information processing method) executed in an information processing system. 1 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process (information processing method) executed in an information processing system. FIG. 2 illustrates an example of a hardware configuration of the device.

Embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. Note that in each of the following embodiments, identical elements will be designated by the same reference numerals, and duplicate descriptions will be omitted.

The present disclosure will be described in the following order:
1. First embodiment 2. Modification of first embodiment 3. Second embodiment 4. Modification of second embodiment 5. Modification common to each embodiment 6. Example of hardware configuration 7. Example of effect

1. First Embodiment Fig. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the schematic configuration of an information processing system according to a first embodiment. One of the users of the information processing system 1 is shown in the figure as user U. In the information processing system 1, a mobile device to be assigned to user U is searched for, and the assigned mobile device travels to a pickup location.

An example of a mobile device is a vehicle such as a taxi, in which case, "assignment" and "search" refer to dispatching and searching. A pickup location refers to the pickup location (boarding location). Hereinafter, to the extent there is no contradiction, "vehicle," "dispatch," "search," and "pick-up location" may be appropriately interpreted as "mobile device," "assignment," "search," and "pick-up location."

The vehicles are referred to as vehicles 2 and are illustrated in the drawings. Figure 1 shows three vehicles 2: vehicle 2-1, vehicle 2-2, and vehicle 2-3. When there is no need to distinguish between the individual vehicles 2, they will simply be referred to as vehicles 2.

The information processing system 1 includes a user terminal 3 and an information processing device 4. The user terminal 3 is a terminal device used by a user U, such as a smartphone or tablet terminal. The information processing device 4 may constitute, for example, a vehicle dispatch management device operated by a taxi company. The vehicle 2, user terminal 3, and information processing device 4 are configured to be able to communicate with each other, for example, via a network N. Information required for processing in the vehicle 2, user terminal 3, and information processing device 4 is transmitted and received between them as appropriate.

Figure 2 is a diagram showing example functional blocks of a vehicle, a user terminal, and an information processing device. The vehicle 2 includes an in-vehicle device 21 and a vehicle terminal device 22.

The vehicle-mounted device 21 generates vehicle information, for example, periodically. The vehicle information is information representing the movement log of the vehicle 2. The vehicle information includes the business area, status indicating the business status, fee (fare), current location, movement speed, movement direction, etc. Examples of status are occupied, empty, and pick-up. When the status is occupied or pick-up, route information indicating the destination and the movement route to the pick-up location is also included in the vehicle information. The vehicle information is generated based on data obtained from, for example, a fare meter, a GPS (Global Positioning System) receiver, a gyro sensor, a speedometer, etc. The vehicle information also includes an ID. Examples of IDs include a company ID identifying the company to which vehicle V belongs, a wireless ID identifying vehicle V, and a crew ID identifying the driver of vehicle V. The vehicle information may also include a status time indicating the time the status was generated.

The in-vehicle device 21 transmits the generated vehicle information to the information processing device 4. Some of the vehicle information, such as the status and current location of the vehicle 2, may also be transmitted to the user terminal 3 via the information processing device 4.

The vehicle terminal device 22 executes a driver application. The vehicle terminal device 22 may be a smartphone, tablet device, etc. The vehicle terminal device 22 displays vehicle dispatch request information and accepts operations on the vehicle terminal device 22 by the driver. The vehicle dispatch request information includes information such as the pickup location and destination, departure time, and fare.

Unless otherwise specified, the following discussion assumes that vehicle dispatch processing in vehicle 2 is performed by the on-board device 21 and vehicle terminal device 22.

The user terminal 3 includes a display unit 31, a processing unit 32, and a memory unit 33. The display unit 31 displays information to the user U. The processing unit 32 executes the processing required for dispatching a vehicle by the user terminal 3. The memory unit 33 stores information required for processing by the user terminal 3.

An example of information stored in the memory unit 33 is an application program 33a. The application program 33a is an information processing program (software) that causes the computer to function as the user terminal 3, and is executed by the processing unit 32.

Unless otherwise specified, in the following description, processing related to display on the user terminal 3 is assumed to be performed by the display unit 31. Processing related to dispatching on the user terminal 3 is assumed to be performed by the processing unit 32.

The information processing device 4 includes a management unit 41 and a memory unit 42. The management unit 41 is a vehicle dispatch management unit that executes the processing required for vehicle dispatch by the information processing device 4. The memory unit 42 stores information required for processing by the information processing device 4.

Examples of information stored in the memory unit 42 include vehicle information 42a and application programs 42b. The vehicle information 42a is information representing the dynamic log of each vehicle 2 as described above. The application programs 42b are information processing programs (software) that cause the computer to function as the information processing device 4, and are executed by the management unit 41.

Unless otherwise specified, the vehicle dispatch processing in the information processing device 4 will be assumed to be performed by the management unit 41.

The basic operation of the information processing system 1 will be described. A user U inputs vehicle dispatch request information using a user terminal 3. The user terminal 3 transmits the vehicle dispatch request information to an information processing device 4. The information processing device 4 dispatches a vehicle 2 to the user U based on the vehicle dispatch request information. For example, the information processing device 4 extracts vehicles 2 near the user terminal 3 and transmits the vehicle dispatch request information to the extracted vehicles 2. When the driver of the vehicle 2 accepts the dispatch request, an acceptance notification is transmitted from the vehicle 2 to the information processing device 4, and the dispatch is confirmed. The information processing device 4 transmits a vehicle dispatch confirmation notification to the vehicle 2 and the user terminal 3.

Once dispatch is confirmed, vehicle 2 moves toward the pickup location. User terminal 3 displays a map including vehicle 2 for which dispatch has been confirmed to user U. The state of vehicle 2 approaching the pickup location is displayed to user U in real time. This provides a sense of realism and allows user U to visually anticipate the arrival of vehicle 2. User U waits for vehicle 2's arrival while looking at the map. When vehicle 2 arrives at the pickup location, user U gets into vehicle 2.

Here, it is not uncommon for the actual route from the current location of vehicle 2, for which dispatch has been confirmed, to the pick-up location to be longer than the shortest route on the map. For example, there may be a route (hereinafter also referred to as a "roundabout route") that leads away from the pick-up location due to reasons such as one-way streets or oncoming traffic. When a roundabout route exists, vehicle 2 appears to user U to be taking a long detour as it approaches. There is a possibility that user U's satisfaction (user experience, application evaluation, etc.) will decrease if vehicle 2 arrives later than expected, for example. As will be explained later, by devising a way to display the confirmed dispatch to user U, the decrease in user U's satisfaction can be suppressed.

The display unit 31 of the user terminal 3 displays that vehicle dispatch has been confirmed when predetermined conditions are met and the management unit 41 of the information processing device 4 has confirmed the dispatch. In the first embodiment, the predetermined conditions are conditions (route conditions) related to the pickup route of the vehicle 2. For example, the route conditions are met when there is no roundabout route. Even after vehicle dispatch has been confirmed, if the route conditions are not met, the display unit 31 of the user terminal 3 displays that vehicle 2 is being searched for. This will be explained with reference to Figures 3 to 14.

Figure 3 is a flowchart showing an example of processing (information processing method) executed in the information processing system. In step S1, the display unit 31 and processing unit 32 of the user terminal 3 accept vehicle dispatch request information and transmit it to the information processing device 4. The user U operates the user terminal 3 to input the vehicle dispatch request information. This will be explained with reference to Figure 4.

Figure 4 shows an example of input of vehicle dispatch request information. The display unit 31 of the user terminal 3 displays a map of the area including the current location of the user terminal 3 (i.e., the current location of user U). Vehicles 2 located within the map are also displayed.

The pickup location and destination are specified. The pickup location is set as the current location of the user terminal 3 by default, for example, and is displayed as a map pin. The pickup location can be changed by moving the map pin. Information such as payment method may also be specified. After setting the pickup location and destination, etc., "Request a vehicle dispatch" is selected by sliding the screen. Once the input of the vehicle dispatch request information, including the pickup location and destination, etc., is complete, the vehicle dispatch request information is sent from the user terminal 3 to the information processing device 4.

Returning to Figure 3, in step S2, the display unit 31 of the user terminal 3 displays that a search for available vehicles 2 is in progress (a search display is performed). This will be explained with reference to Figure 5.

Figure 5 shows an example of the vehicle detection display. The message "Detecting vehicle..." is displayed.

Returning to FIG. 3, in step S3, the management unit 41 of the information processing device 4 extracts a vehicle 2 and transmits dispatch request information to the extracted vehicle 2. The management unit 41 extracts a vehicle 2 that can be dispatched based on the dispatch request information from the user terminal 3 and vehicle information 42a (vehicle status data) stored in the memory unit 42. For example, the vehicle 2 whose current location is closest to the pickup location indicated in the dispatch request information is extracted. In this example, vehicle 2-1 is extracted. In vehicle 2-1, the vehicle terminal device 22 displays the dispatch request information to the driver.

In step S4, vehicle 2-1 accepts the response operation. The driver of vehicle 2-1 operates the vehicle terminal device 22 to accept or reject the dispatch request. In this example, the dispatch request is accepted. The vehicle terminal device 22 of vehicle 2-1 transmits (responds to) an acceptance notification to the information processing device 4.

In step S5, the management unit 41 of the information processing device 4 confirms the dispatch and sends a dispatch confirmation notification to vehicle 2-1. At this point, the dispatch confirmation notification has not yet been sent to the user terminal 3.

In step S6, vehicle 2-1 begins moving toward the pickup location.

In step S7, the management unit 41 of the information processing device 4 determines whether the route condition is met. Here, the route condition is met when a roundabout route exists on the pick-up route of vehicle 2-1. The pick-up route is the route from the (most recent) current location of vehicle 2-1 to the pick-up location. If the route condition is met (step S7: Yes), processing proceeds to step S8. If not (step S7: No), processing of step S7 is repeated.

While the processing of step S7 is being repeated, the vehicle search display on the display unit 31 of the user terminal 3 continues. This will be explained with reference to Figures 6 and 7.

Figures 6 and 7 show examples of vehicle search displays. The message "Searching..." continues to be displayed. On the map, vehicle 2-1, whose dispatch has been confirmed, is moving away from the pickup location in order to reach the pickup location in the left lane.

Returning to Figure 3, in step S8, the management unit 41 of the information processing device 4 sends a vehicle dispatch confirmation notification to the user terminal 3.

In step S9, the display unit 31 of the user terminal 3 displays that the vehicle dispatch has been confirmed (displays a vehicle dispatch confirmation message). This will be explained with reference to Figures 8 and 9.

Figures 8 and 9 show examples of vehicle dispatch confirmation displays. As shown in Figure 8, the message "Vehicle dispatch confirmed" is displayed. Vehicle 2-1 is highlighted on the map. Other information about vehicle 2-1 (such as vehicle color and license plate number) may also be displayed. As shown in Figure 9, vehicle 2-1 approaches the pickup location. Vehicle 2-1 on the map travels the shortest route to the pickup location.

Returning to FIG. 3, in step S10, vehicle 2-1 arrives at the pickup location. User U boards vehicle 2-1.

According to the information processing system 1, once the dispatch of vehicle 2-1 has been confirmed and the route conditions are met, a message indicating that the dispatch has been confirmed is displayed. The route conditions are met, for example, when a roundabout route exists on the pick-up route of vehicle 2-1. Until the route conditions are met, the message indicating that vehicle 2 is being searched for continues to be displayed, so user U is not notified that the dispatch has been confirmed. User U does not see that vehicle 2-1, whose dispatch has been confirmed, is traveling on a roundabout route, i.e., taking a detour. This prevents a decrease in user U's satisfaction. A comparative example will also be used for explanation.

Figures 10 to 14 are diagrams showing a comparative example. When the dispatch is confirmed, as shown in Figure 10, a message indicating that the dispatch has been confirmed is displayed, and vehicle 2-1 is highlighted on the map. In this state, as shown in Figures 11 to 14, vehicle 2-1 is displayed traveling along a route that includes a roundabout route. To user U, vehicle 2-1, whose dispatch has been confirmed, appears to be taking a detour. This may decrease user U's satisfaction. Such a decrease in satisfaction is suppressed by information processing system 1.

2. Modification of First Embodiment In the above embodiment, an example has been described in which the process of determining whether a route condition is successful (step S7) is executed by the management unit 41 of the information processing device 4. However, a similar determination process may also be executed by the processing unit 32 of the user terminal 3. This will be described with reference to FIG. 15 .

Figure 15 is a flowchart showing an example of processing (information processing method) executed in an information processing system. Regarding differences from Figure 3, in step S5A, the management unit 41 of the information processing device 4 sends a dispatch confirmation notification not only to vehicle 2-1 but also to the user terminal 3. In step S7A, the processing unit 32 of the user terminal 3 determines whether the route conditions are met. If the route conditions are met (step S7A: Yes), processing proceeds to step S9. If not (step S7A: No), processing of step S7A is repeated. Since the fact that vehicle 2 is being searched for continues to be displayed until no more roundabout routes exist, a decrease in user U's satisfaction can be suppressed.

Some variations of the route condition will now be described. For example, the route condition may be met when a roundabout route exists only near the pickup location (within 100 m, for example). When the route condition is met, the display unit 31 of the user terminal 3 may also display that a roundabout route exists. This will be explained with reference to Figures 16 to 20.

Figures 16 to 20 are diagrams showing examples of vehicle allocation confirmation displays. As shown in Figure 16, not only the message "Vehicle allocation confirmed" but also the message "Detour route available" is displayed. The detour route on the map is also highlighted. In this state, as shown in Figures 17 to 20, the onboard unit 21 is displayed traveling along a route that includes a detour route. At the stages of Figures 17 and 18, a detour route still exists, so both the message "Vehicle allocation confirmed" and the message "Detour route available" continue to be displayed. At the stages of Figures 19 and 20, there is no longer a detour route, and only the message "Vehicle allocation confirmed" is displayed.

In the above example, along with the confirmation of vehicle dispatch, user U is also notified in advance that vehicle 2-1 will be traveling along a roundabout route. Knowing that vehicle 2-1 will be traveling along a roundabout route reduces the difference between the expected arrival time at the pickup location and the vehicle 2-1 arrival time. This reduces the decline in user U's satisfaction.

The above message "Detour route available" may be a more specific message such as "It appears to be a little farther away due to one-way streets/lane arrangements." Furthermore, if the detour route can be eliminated by changing the boarding location, a message encouraging the user to change the boarding location may be displayed.

The route condition may be met when a roundabout route exists. When the route condition is met, the user terminal 3 does not need to display the vehicle 2 whose dispatch has been confirmed as moving on the map. The movement of the vehicle 2 on the map may be stopped, or the entire map may be hidden. The user U cannot see that the vehicle 2-1 whose dispatch has been confirmed is moving on a roundabout route. This prevents a decrease in the user U's satisfaction. Similar processing may also be performed when there is a possibility that the time required for vehicle exploration will exceed the set maximum exploration time (for example, approximately 2 minutes).

In the above embodiment, an example was given in which the vehicle dispatch confirmation display is only displayed once the route conditions are met. Alternatively, there may be no route conditions, and the vehicle dispatch confirmation display may be displayed when the vehicle dispatch is confirmed. In this case, the user terminal 3 may display the vehicle 2 as if it is traveling a route different from the actual route. This will be explained with reference to Figures 21 to 25.

Figures 21 to 25 are diagrams showing examples of vehicle dispatch confirmation displays. As shown in Figure 21, a message indicating that the dispatch has been confirmed is displayed. The actual route that vehicle 2-1 will travel thereafter is similar to the routes described above (e.g., Figures 16 to 20, etc.). However, as shown in Figures 22 to 25, the display unit 31 of the user terminal 3 displays vehicle 2-1 traveling along a route (virtual route) that differs from the actual route. For example, a route that is approximately the same distance and travel time as the actual route but does not include any roundabout routes is set as the virtual route. Vehicle 2-1 on the map moves along the virtual route on the map in conjunction with movement along the actual route.

In order to prevent the deviation between the actual route and the virtual route from becoming too large, for example, if the travel time on the roundabout route is sufficiently short (e.g., on the order of a few seconds), the vehicle 2-1 on the actual route may be displayed.

3. Second Embodiment Fig. 26 is a diagram showing an example of the schematic configuration of an information processing system according to the second embodiment. There are multiple users U of different types. Two users U are exemplified as users U of different types. Each user U is referred to as user U1 and user U2 and is illustrated. The user terminal 3 used by user U1 is referred to as user terminal 3-1 and is illustrated. The user terminal 3 used by user U2 is referred to as user terminal 3-2 and is illustrated.

Examples of types of user U are regular member users and priority member users. Vehicle allocation for regular member users takes priority over vehicle allocation for priority member users. In the following, we will assume that user U1 is a regular member user and user U2 is a priority member user.

Vehicle dispatch by the management unit 41 (Figure 2) of the information processing device 4 includes changing the target of the confirmed vehicle dispatch from user U1 to user U2. If there is a change, a vehicle will be dispatched again for user U1. From user U1's perspective, the once confirmed vehicle dispatch is canceled, and the arrival time of vehicle 2 will be later than originally expected. As a result, for example, the reliability of the application may decrease, and user U1's satisfaction may decrease.

As in the first embodiment, in the second embodiment, the user terminal 3 displays that the vehicle dispatch has been confirmed after the vehicle dispatch has been confirmed by the information processing device 4 and when a predetermined condition is met. The predetermined condition in the second embodiment is a condition related to the type of user U (type condition). This will be explained with reference to Figures 27 and 28.

Figures 27 and 28 are flowcharts showing an example of processing (information processing method) executed in the information processing system. Steps S1 to S6 and S8 to S10 in Figure 27 are the same as the processing in Figure 3 described above. The display unit 31 and processing unit 32 of the user terminal 3-1 accept the vehicle allocation request information, transmit the vehicle allocation request information to the information processing device 4, and display the vehicle search (steps S1 and S2). The management unit 41 of the information processing device 4 extracts a vehicle 2 and transmits the vehicle allocation request information to vehicle 2-1 (step S3). The vehicle terminal device 22 of vehicle 2-1 accepts the response operation and transmits an acceptance notice to the information processing device 4 (step S4). The management unit 41 of the information processing device 4 transmits a vehicle allocation confirmation notice to vehicle 2-1 (step S5). Vehicle 2-1 begins moving (step S6).

There is a possibility that the target of vehicle 2-1, which was determined in the previous step S5, will be changed from user U1 (normal member user) to user U2 (priority member user). The process executed when this change occurs is illustrated as step S21 "Possibility of change occurring." Details will be explained later with reference to Figure 28. For the time being, in the example of Figure 27, it is assumed that no change occurs in step S21, and processing proceeds to step S22.

In step S22, the management unit 41 of the information processing device 4 determines whether the type condition is met. The type condition is met when user U1 is a regular member user and there is no possibility of the above-mentioned change occurring. The possibility of a change occurring disappears, for example, when a predetermined period of time has passed or when the dispatched vehicle 2 approaches the boarding location (for example, within 100 meters). An example of the predetermined period of time is the maximum vehicle search time (for example, approximately 2 minutes). Note that if user U1's application usage history, etc., indicates a tendency for user U1 to quit the app while searching, the predetermined period may be set shorter than the maximum vehicle search time. If the type condition is met (step S22: Yes), processing proceeds to step S8. If not (step S22: No), processing in step S22 is repeated, during which time the possibility of a change occurring in step S21 remains.

When processing proceeds to step S8, the management unit 41 of the information processing device 4 sends a vehicle dispatch confirmation notification to the user terminal 3. The display unit 31 of the user terminal 3 displays the vehicle dispatch confirmation (step S9). Vehicle 2-1 arrives at the pickup location (step S10), and user U1 boards vehicle 2-1.

Meanwhile, the processing that occurs when a change occurs in the previous step S21 will be described with reference to Figure 28. In step S211, the display unit 31 and processing unit 32 of the user terminal 3-2 accept the dispatch request information and transmit it to the information processing device 4.

In step S212, the management unit 41 of the information processing device 4 extracts a vehicle 2. In this example, the only vehicle 2 suitable for allocation to user U2 is vehicle 2-1, which has been confirmed for allocation to user U1. Allocation of a vehicle to user U2, who is a priority member user, is given priority over allocation of a vehicle to user U1, who is a normal member user. Therefore, the management unit 41 of the information processing device 4 extracts vehicle 2-1 as the vehicle 2 to be allocated to user U2.

In step S213, the management unit 41 of the information processing device 4 changes the allocation target of vehicle 2-1 from user U1 to user U2. The management unit 41 sends a change notification and allocation request information to vehicle 2-1. The management unit 41 also sends a allocation confirmation notification to the user terminal 3-2 indicating that allocation of vehicle 2-1 to user U2 has been confirmed.

In step S214, the vehicle terminal device 22 of vehicle 2-1 presents the change notification and dispatch request information to the driver. The driver confirms the change notification and dispatch request information. The route of vehicle 2-1 is changed so that it heads toward the pickup location indicated in the dispatch request information (i.e., the pickup location of user U2).

In step S215, the display unit 31 of the user terminal 3-2 displays a confirmation of vehicle dispatch. After that, vehicle 2-1 arrives at the pickup location (corresponding to step S10 in Figure 27), and user U2 boards vehicle 2-1.

In step S216, the management unit 41 of the information processing device 4 again extracts vehicle 2 to be allocated to user U1 and transmits allocation request information. In this example, vehicle 2-2 is extracted.

In step S217, the vehicle terminal device 22 of vehicle 2-2 accepts the response operation. In this example, the dispatch request is accepted. The vehicle terminal device 22 transmits (responds to) an acceptance notification to the information processing device 4.

In step S218, the management unit 41 of the information processing device 4 confirms the dispatch of vehicle 2-2 to user U1 and sends a dispatch confirmation notification to vehicle 2-2.

In step S219, vehicle 2-2 begins moving toward the pickup location. Thereafter, the management unit 41 of the information processing device 4 sends a dispatch confirmation notification to the user terminal 3-1 indicating that dispatch of vehicle 2-2 to user U1 has been confirmed (corresponding to step S8 in FIG. 27). The display unit 31 of the user terminal 3-1 displays the dispatch confirmation. Vehicle 2-2 arrives at the pickup location, and user U1 boards vehicle 2-2.

In the above example, once the dispatch of vehicle 2-1 has been confirmed and the type condition is met, a message indicating that the dispatch has been confirmed is displayed. The type condition is met when user U is a regular member user and there is no possibility of the above-mentioned change occurring. As long as there is still a possibility of a change occurring, the message that vehicle 2 is being searched for, for example, continues to be displayed. Even if a change does occur, user U will not be aware that a change has occurred (that the dispatch to him or her has been canceled). This prevents a decrease in user U's satisfaction.

4. Modification of Second Embodiment In the above embodiment, an example has been described in which the process of determining whether the type condition is satisfied (step S22) is executed by the management unit 41 of the information processing device 4. However, a similar determination process may also be executed by the processing unit 32 of the user terminal 3. This will be described with reference to FIG. 29 .

Figure 29 is a flowchart showing an example of processing (information processing method) executed in an information processing system. Regarding differences from Figure 27, in step S5A, the management unit 41 of the information processing device 4 sends a dispatch confirmation notification not only to vehicle 2-1 but also to the user terminal 3. In step S22A, the processing unit 32 of the user terminal 3 determines whether the type condition is met. If the type condition is met (step S22A: Yes), processing proceeds to step S9. If not (step S22A: No), processing of step S22A is repeated, during which time the possibility of a change occurring in step S21 remains. While the possibility of a change occurring remains, the fact that vehicle 2 is being searched continues to be displayed. Even if a change occurs, user U will not be aware of the change. This prevents a decrease in user U's satisfaction.

5. Modifications Common to Each Embodiment In each of the above embodiments, the mobile device is described as a vehicle 2. However, the mobile device is not limited to the vehicle 2. Other examples of mobile devices include buses, trains, airplanes, ships, helicopters, trucks, dump trucks, drones, etc.

The functions of the information processing device 4 may be realized by multiple devices. For example, if there are multiple vehicles 2 under the management of different taxi companies, the functions of the information processing device 4 may be realized by a vehicle dispatch management device managed by each taxi company and an integrated vehicle dispatch management device that manages them in an integrated manner.

6. Example of Hardware Configuration Figure 30 is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the device. The functions of the user terminal 3 and the information processing device 4 described above can be realized by installing various programs on a computer. For example, the functions of the user terminal 3 and the information processing device 4 are realized by installing the information processing program described above (application program 33a and application program 42b in Figure 2) on a computer. In the computer, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 201, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 202, and a RAM (Random Access Memory) 203 are interconnected by a bus 204.

An input/output interface 205 is also connected to the bus 204. An input unit 206, an output unit 207, a memory unit 208, a communication unit 209, and a drive 210 are connected to the input/output interface 205.

The input unit 206 consists of operation buttons, a keyboard, a mouse, a microphone, a touch panel, an input terminal, etc. The output unit 207 consists of a display, a speaker, an output terminal, etc. The storage unit 208 consists of a hard disk, a RAM disk, non-volatile memory, etc. The communication unit 209 consists of a network interface, etc. The drive 210 drives a removable recording medium 211 such as a magnetic disk, optical disk, magneto-optical disk, or semiconductor memory.

In a computer configured as described above, the CPU 201 performs the above-described series of processes by, for example, loading a program stored in the storage unit 208 into the RAM 203 via the input/output interface 205 and bus 204 and executing it. The RAM 203 also stores data, etc., necessary for the CPU 201 to execute various processes, as appropriate.

The program executed by the computer (CPU 201) can be provided by being recorded on a removable recording medium 211, such as a packaged medium. The program can also be provided via a wired or wireless transmission medium, such as a local area network, the Internet, or digital satellite broadcasting.

In a computer, a program can be installed in the storage unit 208 via the input/output interface 205 by inserting the removable recording medium 211 into the drive 210. The program can also be received by the communication unit 209 via a wired or wireless transmission medium and installed in the storage unit 208. Alternatively, the program can be pre-installed in the ROM 202 or storage unit 208.

7. Examples of Effects The technology described above can be specified, for example, as follows. One of the disclosed technologies is an information processing system 1. As described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 29 , etc., the information processing system 1 includes a management unit 41 and a display unit 31. The management unit 41 allocates (e.g., dispatches) a mobile device (e.g., a vehicle 2 that is a taxi) to a user U. The display unit 31 displays a map including the mobile device whose allocation has been confirmed to the user U. After the allocation by the management unit 41 has been confirmed and when predetermined conditions are met, the display unit 31 displays that the allocation has been confirmed. The predetermined conditions include at least one of a route condition related to the route of the mobile device and a type condition related to the type of user U.

According to the information processing system 1 described above, once the allocation of a mobile device has been confirmed and predetermined conditions such as route conditions and type conditions are met, a message indicating that the allocation has been confirmed is displayed. This makes it possible to prevent a decrease in user U's satisfaction that may occur when a message indicating that the allocation has been confirmed is displayed even when predetermined conditions are not met.

As explained with reference to Figures 3 to 9 and 15, the display unit 31 may display that a mobile device is being searched for if a predetermined condition is not met, even after the allocation by the management unit 41 has been finalized. For example, in this way, it is possible to prevent the user from being notified that the allocation has been finalized until a predetermined condition is met.

As explained with reference to Figures 3 to 9 and 15, the route condition may be met when there is no route (roundabout route) that moves away from the pickup location (e.g., the pickup location). In this case, user U does not see that the assigned mobile device is traveling along a roundabout route. Therefore, a decrease in user U's satisfaction can be suppressed.

The route condition is met when a roundabout route exists only near the pickup location, and the display unit 31 may also display the existence of a roundabout route when the route condition is met. Since the user U is informed in advance that the mobile device will be traveling on a roundabout route, a decrease in satisfaction is suppressed.

The route condition is met when a roundabout route exists, and when the route condition is met, the display unit 31 does not need to display the mobile device whose assignment has been confirmed moving on the map. In this way, it is possible to prevent the user U from seeing that the mobile device is moving along a roundabout route.

As explained with reference to Figures 26 to 29, the types of user U include regular member users (e.g., user U1) and priority member users (e.g., user U2), and the allocation by the management unit 41 includes changing the target of the confirmed allocation from a regular member user to a priority member user. The type condition may be met when user U is a regular member user and there is no possibility of a change occurring. By doing this, even if a change occurs, user U will not be aware that a change has occurred (that a vehicle allocation to him or her has been canceled). This makes it possible to prevent a decrease in user U's satisfaction. For example, the possibility of a change occurring may disappear after a predetermined period of time has passed, or when the mobile device with a confirmed allocation approaches the pickup location.

The information processing method described with reference to Figures 3, 15, 27 to 29, etc., is also one of the disclosed technologies. The information processing method includes allocating a mobile device (e.g., vehicle 2, a taxi) to user U (e.g., steps S3 to S5) and displaying a map including the mobile device whose allocation has been confirmed to user U (e.g., step S9). When the allocation has been confirmed and predetermined conditions are met (e.g., step S7: Yes, step S22: Yes), the display indicates that the allocation has been confirmed (e.g., step S9). The predetermined conditions include at least one of a route condition related to the route of the mobile device and a type condition related to the type of user U. As described above, this information processing method can also suppress a decrease in user U's satisfaction.

The information processing program described with reference to Figures 2, 3, 15, and 27-30 is also one of the disclosed technologies. The information processing program (e.g., application program 33a, application program 42b) causes a computer to execute the process of assigning a mobile device (e.g., vehicle 2, a taxi) to user U and the process of displaying to user U a map including the mobile device whose assignment has been confirmed. The display process displays that the assignment has been confirmed after the assignment has been confirmed and when predetermined conditions are met. The predetermined conditions include at least one of a route condition related to the route of the mobile device and a type condition related to the type of user. As explained above, such an information processing program can also suppress a decline in user U's satisfaction.

The effects described in this disclosure are merely examples and are not limited to the disclosed content. Other effects may also exist.

Although the embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above, the technical scope of the present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications are possible without departing from the spirit of the present disclosure. Furthermore, components from different embodiments and modifications may be combined as appropriate.

The present technology can also be configured as follows.
(1)
a management unit that allocates mobile devices to users;
a display unit that displays a map including the mobile device whose allocation has been confirmed to a user;
Equipped with
the display unit displays that the allocation has been finalized when a predetermined condition is met after the allocation has been finalized by the management unit;
the predetermined condition includes at least one of a route condition related to a route of the mobile device and a type condition related to a type of user;
Information processing system.
(2)
the display unit displays a message indicating that a mobile device is being searched for when a predetermined condition is not met even after the allocation by the management unit has been finalized.
An information processing system according to (1).
(3)
The route condition is satisfied when there is no route away from the pickup location.
An information processing system according to (1) or (2).
(4)
The route condition is satisfied when a route away from the pickup location exists only near the pickup location;
The display unit also displays, when the route condition is satisfied, the existence of a route that moves away from the pickup location.
An information processing system according to (1) or (2).
(5)
The route condition is satisfied when there is a route away from the pickup location;
the display unit does not display the movement of the assigned mobile device on the map when the route condition is satisfied.
An information processing system according to (1) or (2).
(6)
The user types include a normal member user and a priority member user,
The allocation by the management unit includes changing the target of the confirmed allocation from a normal member user to a priority member user;
The type condition is met when the user is a regular member user and there is no possibility that the change will occur.
An information processing system according to any one of (1) to (5).
(7)
The possibility of the change occurring will disappear after a predetermined period of time has passed.
(6) An information processing system according to (6).
(8)
The possibility of such a change occurring ceases when the assigned mobile device approaches the pickup location.
An information processing system according to (6) or (7).
(9)
the mobility device includes a vehicle;
The allocation includes dispatching a vehicle.
An information processing system according to any one of (1) to (8).
(10)
The vehicle includes a taxi.
(9) An information processing system according to (9).
(11)
Allocating a mobile device to a user;
Displaying a map to a user that includes the assigned mobile devices;
Including,
In the display, when the allocation is determined and a predetermined condition is met, the fact that the allocation has been determined is displayed;
the predetermined condition includes at least one of a route condition related to a route of the mobile device and a type condition related to a type of user;
Information processing methods.
(12)
On the computer,
a process of allocating a mobile device to a user;
displaying a map including the assigned mobile device to a user;
An information processing program for executing
The display process displays that the allocation has been finalized when a predetermined condition is met after the allocation has been finalized,
the predetermined condition includes at least one of a route condition related to a route of the mobile device and a type condition related to a type of user;
Information processing program.

REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 1 Information processing system 2 Vehicle 21 In-vehicle device 22 Vehicle terminal device 3 User terminal 31 Display unit 32 Processing unit 33 Storage unit 33a Application program 4 Information processing device 41 Management unit 42 Storage unit 42a Vehicle information 42b Application program 201 CPU
202 ROM
203 RAM
204 Bus 205 Input/Output Interface 206 Input Unit 207 Output Unit 208 Storage Unit 209 Communication Unit 210 Drive 211 Removable Recording Medium N Network U User

Claims (15)

a management unit that allocates mobile devices to users;
a display unit that displays a map including the mobile device whose allocation has been confirmed to a user;
Equipped with
the display unit displays that the allocation has been finalized when a predetermined condition is met after the allocation has been finalized by the management unit;
the predetermined conditions include at least a route condition among a route condition related to a route of a mobile device and a type condition related to a type of user;
The route condition is satisfied when there is no route away from the pickup location .
Information processing system. a management unit that allocates mobile devices to users;
a display unit that displays a map including the mobile device whose allocation has been confirmed to a user;
Equipped with
the display unit displays that the allocation has been finalized when a predetermined condition is met after the allocation has been finalized by the management unit;
the predetermined conditions include at least a route condition among a route condition related to a route of a mobile device and a type condition related to a type of user;
The route condition is satisfied when a route away from the pickup location exists only near the pickup location;
The display unit also displays, when the route condition is satisfied, the existence of a route that moves away from the pickup location .
Information processing system. a management unit that allocates mobile devices to users;
a display unit that displays a map including the mobile device whose allocation has been confirmed to a user;
Equipped with
the display unit displays that the allocation has been finalized when a predetermined condition is met after the allocation has been finalized by the management unit;
the predetermined conditions include at least a route condition among a route condition related to a route of a mobile device and a type condition related to a type of user;
The route condition is satisfied when there is a route away from the pickup location;
the display unit does not display the movement of the assigned mobile device on the map when the route condition is satisfied .
Information processing system. the display unit displays a message indicating that a mobile device is being searched for when a predetermined condition is not met even after the allocation by the management unit has been finalized.
The information processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 3 . The user types include a normal member user and a priority member user,
The allocation by the management unit includes changing the target of the confirmed allocation from a normal member user to a priority member user;
The type condition is met when the user is a regular member user and there is no possibility that the change will occur.
The information processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 3 . The possibility of the change occurring will disappear after a predetermined period of time has passed.
The information processing system according to claim 5 . The possibility of such a change occurring ceases when the assigned mobile device approaches the pickup location.
The information processing system according to claim 5 . the mobility device includes a vehicle;
The allocation includes dispatching a vehicle.
The information processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 3 . The vehicle includes a taxi.
The information processing system according to claim 8 . Allocating a mobile device to a user;
Displaying a map to a user that includes the assigned mobile devices;
Including,
In the display, when the allocation is determined and a predetermined condition is met, the fact that the allocation has been determined is displayed;
the predetermined conditions include at least a route condition among a route condition related to a route of a mobile device and a type condition related to a type of user ;
The route condition is satisfied when there is no route away from the pickup location .
Information processing methods. Allocating a mobile device to a user;
Displaying a map to a user that includes the assigned mobile devices;
Including,
In the display, when the allocation is determined and a predetermined condition is met, the fact that the allocation has been determined is displayed;
the predetermined conditions include at least a route condition among a route condition related to a route of a mobile device and a type condition related to a type of user;
The route condition is satisfied when a route away from the pickup location exists only near the pickup location;
When the route condition is satisfied, the display also displays the existence of a route that moves away from the pickup location.
Information processing methods. Allocating a mobile device to a user;
Displaying a map to a user that includes the assigned mobile devices;
Including,
In the display, when the allocation is determined and a predetermined condition is met, the fact that the allocation has been determined is displayed;
the predetermined conditions include at least a route condition among a route condition related to a route of a mobile device and a type condition related to a type of user;
The route condition is satisfied when there is a route away from the pickup location;
In the display, when the route condition is satisfied, the state of the assigned mobile device moving on the map is not displayed.
Information processing methods. On the computer,
a process of allocating a mobile device to a user;
displaying a map including the assigned mobile device to a user;
An information processing program for executing
The display process displays that the allocation has been finalized when a predetermined condition is met after the allocation has been finalized,
the predetermined conditions include at least a route condition among a route condition related to a route of a mobile device and a type condition related to a type of user;
The route condition is satisfied when there is no route away from the pickup location .
Information processing program. On the computer,
a process of allocating a mobile device to a user;
displaying a map including the assigned mobile device to a user;
An information processing program for executing
The display process displays that the allocation has been finalized when a predetermined condition is met after the allocation has been finalized,
the predetermined conditions include at least a route condition among a route condition related to a route of a mobile device and a type condition related to a type of user;
The route condition is satisfied when a route away from the pickup location exists only near the pickup location;
In the display process, if the route condition is satisfied, the presence of a route that moves away from the pickup location is also displayed.
Information processing program. On the computer,
a process of allocating a mobile device to a user;
displaying a map including the assigned mobile device to a user;
An information processing program for executing
The display process displays that the allocation has been finalized when a predetermined condition is met after the allocation has been finalized,
the predetermined conditions include at least a route condition among a route condition related to a route of a mobile device and a type condition related to a type of user;
The route condition is satisfied when there is a route away from the pickup location;
In the display process, if the route condition is satisfied, the state of the assigned mobile device moving on the map is not displayed .
Information processing program.