Motion sickness reduction device and motion sickness reduction method

Abstract

To provide a motion sickness reduction device which can impart visual information to a person riding in a vehicle regarding the degree to which the person is tilted relative to horizontal (this can result in reduction of motion sickness caused by poor balance).SOLUTION: A motion sickness reduction device 10 is provided in a riding space of a vehicle provided with the riding space in which people ride. The motion sickness reduction device comprises display devices 20 (20F, 20L, 20R) that display horizontal lines HL20F, HL20L, HL20R extending in horizontal directions orthogonal to a direction of gravity of the vehicle in the riding space, irrespective of a tilt of the vehicle.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a vehicle motion sickness reduction device and a vehicle motion sickness reduction method, and particularly to a vehicle motion sickness reduction device and a vehicle motion sickness reduction method that can provide visual information to a person riding in a vehicle about how much the person is tilted with respect to the horizontal (as a result, reducing vehicle motion sickness caused by the sense of balance).

Background Art

[0002] As a countermeasure against vehicle motion sickness, an optical array system mounted on a vehicle and displaying a flow of light corresponding to the movement of the vehicle is known (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, as a result of the inventors' study, in the optical array system described in Patent Document 1 above, the displayed light flow mimics a specific movement of the vehicle, and a person riding in the vehicle has no visual information about how much the person is tilted with respect to the horizontal. Therefore, it has been found that it is insufficient as a countermeasure against vehicle motion sickness caused by the sense of balance.

[0005] The present disclosure has been made to solve such problems, and an object thereof is to provide a vehicle motion sickness reduction device and a vehicle motion sickness reduction method that can provide visual information to a person riding in a vehicle about how much the person is tilted with respect to the horizontal (as a result, reducing vehicle motion sickness caused by the sense of balance).

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The motion sickness reduction device according to this disclosure is provided in the passenger compartment of a vehicle that has a passenger compartment for people to sit in, and includes a display device that displays a horizontal line extending horizontally in the passenger compartment that is perpendicular to the direction of gravity of the vehicle, regardless of the inclination of the vehicle.

[0007] This configuration provides passengers with visual information about how much they are tilted relative to the horizontal (and as a result, can reduce motion sickness caused by a lack of balance).

[0008] This is achieved by displaying a horizontal line in the passenger compartment of a vehicle equipped with a passenger compartment, extending horizontally in a direction perpendicular to the direction of gravity of the vehicle, regardless of the vehicle's tilt.

[0009] Furthermore, the motion sickness reduction device may further include a road condition detection unit that detects the road conditions on which the vehicle is traveling, and the display device may display the horizontal line when the road conditions meet predetermined conditions.

[0010] Furthermore, in the motion sickness reduction device described above, the predetermined conditions may include driving on an incline, a curved road, or a straight road at or below a predetermined acceleration force.

[0011] Furthermore, in the motion sickness reduction device described above, the display device may display a bright spot that moves along the horizontal line in a direction corresponding to the acceleration and deceleration of the vehicle, along with the horizontal line.

[0012] Furthermore, in the motion sickness reduction device described above, the display device may be provided on the windshield and side windows that constitute the walls surrounding the passenger compartment.

[0013] Furthermore, in the motion sickness reduction device described above, the display device may also be provided on the rear glass that constitutes the wall surrounding the passenger compartment.

[0014] Furthermore, in the motion sickness reduction device described above, the display device may be provided on the front dashboard or side door of the passenger compartment.

[0015] Furthermore, in the motion sickness reduction device described above, the display device may be further provided on the rear dashboard located in the passenger compartment.

[0016] Furthermore, in the motion sickness reduction device described above, the display device may be a film-like film light source.

[0017] Furthermore, in the motion sickness reduction device described above, the film light source may be an organic EL or a film-type LED.

[0018] Furthermore, the motion sickness reduction device may further include a horizontal line setting unit for setting at least one of the color and width of the horizontal line, and the display device may display the horizontal line with the set color and width.

[0019] Furthermore, in the motion sickness reduction device described above, the display device may display an image including the horizontal line.

[0020] Furthermore, in the motion sickness reduction device described above, the display device may be provided on at least a portion of the wall surface surrounding the four sides of the passenger space.

[0021] The motion sickness reduction method according to this disclosure is a method for reducing motion sickness in which a horizontal line extending in a horizontal direction perpendicular to the direction of gravity of a vehicle is displayed in the passenger compartment of a vehicle equipped with a passenger compartment for a person, regardless of the tilt of the vehicle.

[0022] This configuration provides passengers with visual information about how much they are tilted relative to the horizontal (and as a result, can reduce motion sickness caused by a lack of balance).

[0023] This is achieved by displaying a horizontal line in the passenger compartment of a vehicle equipped with a passenger compartment, extending horizontally in a direction perpendicular to the direction of gravity of the vehicle, regardless of the vehicle's tilt. [Effects of the Invention]

[0024] This disclosure provides a motion sickness reduction device and a motion sickness reduction method that can provide a person riding in a vehicle with visual information about how much they are tilted relative to the horizontal (and as a result reduce motion sickness caused by a sense of balance). [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0025] [Figure 1] This is a schematic diagram of a motion sickness reduction device 10 (film light source 20) installed in the passenger compartment of vehicle V. [Figure 2] (a) An example of the front horizontal line HL20F displayed on the front film light source 20F when the vehicle V is not tilted (for example, when the vehicle V is on a horizontal plane), (b) An example of the front horizontal line HL20F displayed on the front film light source 20F when the vehicle V is tilted to the left (for example, when traveling on a left curve), and (c) An example of the front horizontal line HL20F displayed on the front film light source 20F when the vehicle V is tilted to the right (for example, when traveling on a right curve). [Figure 3] (a) An example of the left horizontal line HL20L displayed on the left film light source 20L when the vehicle V is not tilted (for example, when the vehicle V is on a horizontal plane), (b) An example of the left horizontal line HL20L displayed on the left film light source 20L when the vehicle V is tilted backward (for example, when traveling uphill), and (c) An example of the left horizontal line HL20L displayed on the left film light source 20L when the vehicle V is tilted forward (for example, when traveling downhill). [Figure 4] This is a diagram illustrating the experimental environment used by the inventors. [Figure 5] This graph summarizes the results of a questionnaire administered during an experiment conducted by the inventors. [Figure 6]This is another graph summarizing the results of a questionnaire administered during an experiment conducted by the inventors. [Figure 7] This is a diagram showing the configuration of the motion sickness reduction device 10. [Figure 8] This diagram illustrates the X and Y axes of the inertial sensor 40 mounted on vehicle V. [Figure 9] This is a diagram illustrating the external shape of the film light source 20. [Figure 10] This is a flowchart of the horizontal line display process 1. [Figure 11] (a) An example of a horizontal line HL displayed as a result of horizontal line display processing 1 (and horizontal line display processing 2), (b) An example of a horizontal line HL displayed as a result of horizontal line display processing 1, and (c) An example of a horizontal line HL displayed as a result of horizontal line display processing 2. [Figure 12] This is a flowchart of the horizontal line display process 2. [Figure 13] This is a flowchart for the bright spot display process. [Figure 14] This is an example of a bright spot display. [Figure 15] This is a modified example of a device that incorporates the film light source 20. [Figure 16] This is a diagram showing the configuration of a motion sickness reduction device 10 (modified example). [Figure 17] This is a modified version of the horizontal line HL display format. [Figure 18] This is a modified example in which a liquid crystal panel 20A is used instead of the film light source 20. [Figure 19] This is a modified example using an autonomously driven vehicle as vehicle V. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0026] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the motion sickness reduction device 10 of this disclosure will be described with reference to the attached drawings. In each figure, corresponding components are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant explanations are omitted.

[0027] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a motion sickness reduction device 10 (film light source 20) installed in the passenger compartment of vehicle V.

[0028] As shown in Figure 1, the motion sickness reduction device 10 is installed in the passenger compartment of a vehicle V (see, for example, Figure 2) that has a passenger compartment for one or more people, in order to reduce motion sickness. Regardless of the inclination of the vehicle V, the motion sickness reduction device 10 is installed in the passenger compartment by a horizontal line HL that extends horizontally in a direction perpendicular to the direction of gravity of the vehicle V. 20F , HL 20L , HL 20R The device includes a film light source 20 (an example of a display device of this disclosure) that displays (see Figure 1). The vehicle V is, for example, an automobile. The film light source 20 is, for example, an organic EL or OP film. In Figure 1, reference numeral 80 indicates the driver's seat, reference numeral 81 indicates the passenger seat, and reference numeral 82 indicates the rear seat.

[0029] The film light source 20 is installed, for example, on the windshield FG, side windows SGL, and SGR of a vehicle V. Hereinafter, the film light source 20 installed on the windshield FG will be referred to as the front film light source 20F. Similarly, the film light source installed on the left side window SGL will be referred to as the left film light source 20L. Similarly, the film light source installed on the right side window SGR will be referred to as the right film light source 20R. When these are not specifically distinguished, they will simply be referred to as the film light source 20.

[0030] Also, the horizontal line HL displayed on the front film light source 20F is the front horizontal line HL 20F Similarly, the horizontal line HL displayed on the left film light source 20L is called the left horizontal line HL. 20L Similarly, the horizontal line HL displayed on the right film light source 20R is called the right horizontal line HL. 20R These are called horizontal lines (HL). When no particular distinction is made between them, they are simply referred to as horizontal lines (HL).

[0031] Figure 2(a) shows the front horizontal line HL displayed on the front film light source 20F when the vehicle V is not tilted (for example, when the vehicle V is on a horizontal plane). 20FThis is an example. FIG. 2(b) shows the front horizontal line HL displayed on the front film light source 20F when the vehicle V is tilted to the left (for example, when traveling on a left curve). 20F This is an example. FIG. 2(c) shows the front horizontal line HL displayed on the front film light source 20F when the vehicle V is tilted to the right (for example, when traveling on a right curve). 20F This is an example.

[0032] FIG. 3(a) shows the left horizontal line HL displayed on the left film light source 20L when the vehicle V is not tilted (for example, when the vehicle V is on a horizontal plane). 20L This is an example. FIG. 3(b) shows the left horizontal line HL displayed on the left film light source 20L when the vehicle V is tilted backward (for example, when traveling uphill). 20L This is an example. FIG. 3(c) shows the left horizontal line HL displayed on the left film light source 20L when the vehicle V is tilted forward (for example, when traveling downhill). 20L This is an example. Although not shown, the right horizontal line HL 20R is also displayed on the right film light source 20R in the same manner as the left horizontal line HL 20L .

[0033] As shown in FIGS. 2(a) to 2(c) and FIGS. 3(a) to 3(c), the horizontal line HL (front horizontal line HL 20F , left horizontal line HL 20L , right horizontal line HL 20R ) is a light line (a line formed by light) displayed on the film light source 20 (front film light source 20F, left film light source 20L, right film light source 20R) in a state of extending in the horizontal direction orthogonal to the gravitational direction A V of the vehicle V regardless of the tilt of the vehicle V.

[0034] The inventors have confirmed by experiments that by displaying the horizontal line HL in the passenger space of the vehicle V as described above, motion sickness can be reduced.

[0035] Hereinafter, the experiments conducted by the inventors will be described.

[0036] Figure 4 is a diagram illustrating the experimental environment used by the inventors.

[0037] This experiment was conducted using a car as the vehicle V. There were 45 subjects. In this experiment, for each subject, as shown in Figure 4, a green horizontal line HL was projected onto white screens S1-S3 (screens that block light from the passenger space in the rear seat) installed in front of and on both sides of the subject TS (TS1, TS2 in Figure 4) seated in the rear seat of the car, using projectors PR1-PR3. S1 , HL S2 , HL S3 The environment onto which the horizontal line HL is projected S1 , HL S2 , HL S3 The test was conducted a total of two times in an environment where projection was not performed. Horizontal line HL S1 , HL S2 , HL S3 The width is approximately 1 cm. Below, horizontal line HL S1 , HL S2 , HL S3 Experiments conducted in an environment where the horizontal line is projected are called "experiments with a horizontal line," and the horizontal line HL S1 , HL S2 , HL S3 Experiments conducted in an environment where no horizontal lines are projected are called "experiments without horizontal lines."

[0038] Note: Horizontal line HL S1 , HL S2 , HL S3 To maintain horizontality, that is, regardless of the tilt of the vehicle, the horizontal line HL S1 , HL S2 , HL S3 Projectors PR1 to PR3 were mounted on stabilizers installed inside the car so that they formed a horizontal line extending in a direction perpendicular to the direction of gravity of the car.

[0039] In both the experiment with and without the horizontal line, the vehicle traveled on the same road (a road approximately 5 km long, with approximately 30 curves and an elevation difference of approximately 40 m, three times) at a speed of 40 km / h.

[0040] In both the experiment with and without horizontal lines, each subject sat in the back seat of a vehicle traveling under the above conditions, read text displayed on a handheld mobile device (smartphone or tablet), and entered their answers to a questionnaire displayed on the mobile device every two minutes (a subjective evaluation of their motion sickness on an 11-point scale from 0 to 10). In the experiment with horizontal lines, "light," specifically the horizontal line HL displayed (projected) on screens S1 to S3, was projected onto each subject's peripheral vision. S1 , HL S2 , HL S3 This is intended to help the user perceive horizontality.

[0041] Figure 5 is a graph summarizing the results of a questionnaire administered during an experiment conducted by the inventors.

[0042] In Figure 5, the vertical axis represents the discomfort index, i.e., an 11-point scale from 0 to 10 (subjective evaluation), while the horizontal axis represents the elapsed time (minutes) since the start of the experiment. The meanings of the black circles (multiple), white circles (multiple), lines L1 and L2, and the numerical values ​​"5.60" and "3.37" in Figure 5 are as follows.

[0043] In other words, the black circles (multiple) represent the average discomfort index in the experiment without horizontal lines, that is, the average of the 11-point scale (subjective evaluation) entered by each subject in the experiment without horizontal lines. Line L1 represents the approximate straight line for the black circles (multiple). On the other hand, the white circles (multiple) represent the average discomfort index in the experiment with horizontal lines, that is, the average of the 11-point scale (subjective evaluation) entered by each subject in the experiment with horizontal lines. Line L2 represents the approximate straight line for the white circles (multiple).

[0044] The value "5.60" represents the average of the 11-point scale (discomfort index) entered by each subject at the end (after 28 minutes) in the experiment without the horizontal line. On the other hand, the value "3.37" represents the average of the 11-point scale (discomfort index) entered by each subject at the end (after 28 minutes) in the experiment with the horizontal line.

[0045] Referring to Figure 5, it can be seen that in the experiment with a horizontal line, the average discomfort index decreased from 5.60 to 3.37 compared to the experiment without a horizontal line, meaning the average improvement rate was (3.37 / 5.60) × 100 ≈ 60%. The reason for using the average values ​​of the 11-point scale (discomfort index) entered by each subject at the end (after 28 minutes), "5.60" and "3.37," is as follows: Since the state of motion sickness (discomfort) gradually increases over time, the average values ​​of the 11-point scale (discomfort index) entered by each subject at the end (after 28 minutes), "5.60" and "3.37," are considered to best reflect the state of motion sickness (discomfort).

[0046] Figure 6 is another graph summarizing the results of a questionnaire administered during an experiment conducted by the inventors.

[0047] In Figure 6, the numbers "18%" and "Effect of the line (1.8≧)" represent the percentage of subjects (8 people) whose difference ΔA (Discomfort Index A1 - Discomfort Index A2) between the 11-point rating entered at the end (after 28 minutes) in the experiment without the horizontal line (hereinafter referred to as the discomfort index A1) and the 11-point rating entered at the end (after 28 minutes) in the experiment with the horizontal line (hereinafter referred to as the discomfort index A2) was 1.8 or greater. Similarly, the numbers "7%" and "Effect of the line (1.8≧)" represent the percentage of subjects (3 people) whose difference ΔA (Discomfort Index A1 - Discomfort Index A2) was less than 1.8 and 1 or greater. Similarly, the numbers "11%" and "Effect of the line (1<)" represent the percentage of subjects (5 people) whose difference ΔA (Discomfort Index A1 - Discomfort Index A2) was less than 1 and 0 or greater. In Figure 6, the value A1-A2=+1.8 is indicated as "Effect present due to line (1.8≧)", while the value A1-A2=-1.8 is indicated as "No effect present due to line (1.8≧)".

[0048] Here, if the difference ΔA (discomfort index A1 - discomfort index A2) is positive, it indicates that the discomfort index has decreased due to the display (projection) of the horizontal line HL. In other words, if the difference ΔA (discomfort index A1 - discomfort index A2) is positive, it indicates that motion sickness has decreased due to the display (projection) of the horizontal line HL.

[0049] Referring to Figure 6, we can see that the subjects with a positive difference ΔA (discomfort index A1 - discomfort index A2), i.e., subjects whose motion sickness was reduced by displaying (projecting) the horizontal line HL, totaled 16 subjects (approximately 36% of the total subjects): 8 subjects with a difference ΔA of 1.8 or more, 3 subjects with a difference ΔA of less than 1.8 but 1 or more, and 5 subjects with a difference ΔA of less than 1 but 0 or more.

[0050] From the above experiments, it can be seen that motion sickness can be reduced by displaying a horizontal line HL in the passenger space of vehicle V (for example, a film light source 20 installed in the passenger space).

[0051] The reason why displaying a horizontal line HL in the passenger space of vehicle V can reduce motion sickness can be considered as follows:

[0052] First, the cause of motion sickness is generally thought to be as follows: Irregular acceleration and deceleration, repeated stopping and starting, and driving on roads with continuous ups and downs and curves cause swaying in all directions (for example, in a car), which creates a discrepancy between the information received by the brain through vision and the information received by the brain from the inner ear (semicircular canals and otolith organs) (for example, body position, swaying, and speed). As a result, the brain becomes unable to process all the information, and symptoms of motion sickness occur. (https: / / www.ssp.co.jp / aneron / cause / mechanism.html).

[0053] In contrast, as demonstrated in the experiment above, displaying a horizontal line HL in the vehicle's passenger space can suppress (or reduce) the discrepancy between information input via vision and transmitted to the brain, and information input from the inner ear (semicircular canals and otolith organs) and transmitted to the brain (e.g., body position, sway, speed). As a result, motion sickness is thought to have been reduced.

[0054] Next, an example of the configuration of the motion sickness reduction device 10 will be described.

[0055] The motion sickness reduction device 10 is installed in the vehicle V. The following describes an example where the vehicle V is an automobile.

[0056] Figure 7 is a diagram showing the configuration of the motion sickness reduction device 10.

[0057] As shown in Figure 7, the motion sickness reduction device 10 includes an ECU 30 (Electronic Control Unit), an inertial sensor 40, an imaging device 50, a navigation device 60, and interior lights 70.

[0058] The ECU 30 is a control device that includes, for example, a CPU, RAM, and ROM (not shown in the diagram). The ECU 30 functions as a detection result acquisition unit 31, a vehicle tilt calculation unit 32, a horizontal line display unit 33, and a road condition detection unit 34, by having the CPU execute a predetermined program read from ROM into RAM. Some or all of these functions may be implemented by hardware.

[0059] The ECU30 is electrically connected to an inertial sensor 40, an imaging device 50, a navigation device 60, and an interior light 70.

[0060] The inertial sensor 40 is a sensor that detects the inertial forces acting on the vehicle V (accelerations and angular velocities of the X, Y, and Z axes). As shown in Figure 8, the X axis extends in the front-to-back direction of the vehicle V, the Y axis extends in the width direction of the vehicle V, and the Z axis extends in a direction perpendicular to the X and Y axes. Figure 8 is a diagram illustrating the X and Y axes of the inertial sensor 40 mounted on the vehicle V. For example, a 6-axis IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit) or a 3-axis IMU can be used as the inertial sensor 40. There may be one inertial sensor 40 (reference) or multiple inertial sensors. The inertial sensor 40 is installed in a position (optimal position) that is considered to be able to detect the inertial forces acting on the vehicle V (accelerations and angular velocities of the X, Y, and Z axes).

[0061] The imaging device 50 is a camera (including an image sensor such as a CCD sensor or CMOS sensor) that captures images of the area in front of the vehicle V, and is installed at a predetermined location on the vehicle V (for example, in the passenger compartment). The images (image data) captured by the imaging device 50 are input to the ECU 30.

[0062] The navigation device 60, although not shown, includes a route search unit, a route guidance unit, a current location detection unit, a map information storage unit, and the like. The route search unit searches for a route from the starting point (for example, the current location of vehicle V) to the destination of vehicle V based on the map information stored in the map information storage unit. The route guidance unit provides guidance along the route searched by the route search unit. The current location detection unit detects the current location of vehicle V based on signals from a GPS (not shown) installed on vehicle V. Map information is stored in the map information storage unit.

[0063] The detection result acquisition unit 31 acquires the detection results of the inertial sensor 40 (accelerations in the X, Y, and Z axes, and angular velocities in the X, Y, and Z axes) from the inertial sensor 40.

[0064] The vehicle tilt calculation unit 32 calculates the tilt of the vehicle V (roll angle φ, pitch angle θ, etc.; see Figure 8) based on the detection results obtained by the detection result acquisition unit 31.

[0065] The horizontal line display unit 33 creates a horizontal line HL based on the inclination of the vehicle V (roll angle φ, pitch angle θ, etc.) calculated by the vehicle inclination calculation unit 32, and displays the created horizontal line HL on the film light source 20 by controlling the control circuit 71. The width W1 (see Figure 2(a)) and length LE1~LE3 (see Figures 2(a) and 3(a)) of the horizontal line HL may be of appropriate width and length. The color and brightness (luminance) of the horizontal line HL may also be of appropriate color and brightness. The color of the horizontal line HL may be a single color or multiple colors.

[0066] The road condition detection unit 34 detects the road conditions on which the vehicle V is traveling (such as the road conditions corresponding to the vehicle V's current location) based on information input from the imaging device 50 and the navigation device 60.

[0067] The interior light 70 includes a control circuit 71 and a film light source 20.

[0068] The control circuit 71 controls the film light source 20 in accordance with the control from the ECU 30 so that the horizontal line HL generated by the horizontal line display unit 33 is displayed on the film light source 20.

[0069] The film light source 20 is a film-like film light source (display) that displays a horizontal line HL and is installed in the passenger compartment. The film light source 20 is an example of a display device of this disclosure. As the film light source 20, for example, an organic EL (including organic LEDs) or a film-like LED can be used. A film-like LED is a film light source that includes a plurality of semiconductor light-emitting elements fixed in a two-dimensional (or three-dimensional) arrangement on a flexible film.

[0070] As shown in Figure 1, the film light sources 20 (front film light source 20F, left film light source 20L, right film light source 20R) are provided, for example, on the windshield FG, side windows SGL, and SGR of a vehicle V that constitutes the wall surface surrounding the passenger compartment. As shown in Figure 9, the outer shape of the film light source 20 is, for example, rectangular. Figure 9 is a diagram illustrating the outer shape of the film light source 20. A reflective film (half mirror, white film, milky white film) may be laminated on the back of the film light source 20. In addition, a portion of the windshield FG and side windows SGL and SGR may be made milky white. Furthermore, the film light source 20 may also be provided on the rear glass (not shown) that constitutes the wall surface surrounding the passenger compartment.

[0071] Next, we will explain the horizontal line display process 1.

[0072] Figure 10 is a flowchart of the horizontal line display process 1. Figures 11(a) and 11(b) are examples of the horizontal line HL displayed as a result of the horizontal line display process 1.

[0073] The following describes the process of displaying a horizontal line HL on the film light source 20 when the vehicle V is tilted to the right (to the right when facing forward of the vehicle V) by an angle +φ (hereinafter referred to as the roll angle +φ; see Figure 2(c)). For the sake of simplicity, the following explanation will only consider the roll angle +φ and will not consider the pitch angle θ.

[0074] First, the road conditions are detected (step S10). This is accomplished by the road condition detection unit 34.

[0075] Next, it is determined whether the road conditions detected in step S10 meet predetermined conditions (step S11). This is achieved by the ECU 30 executing a predetermined program. The predetermined conditions are those used to determine whether the road conditions detected in step S10 (the road currently being driven on or the road to be driven on) are road conditions that may induce motion sickness. These conditions include, for example, uphill roads (uphill roads with a certain gradient or greater), curved roads (curved roads with a certain curvature or greater), or straight roads where the vehicle is traveling at or below a predetermined acceleration force.

[0076] As a result, if it is determined that the road conditions detected in step S10 meet predetermined conditions (step S11: YES), the processes from step S12 onward are executed.

[0077] Next, the detection result output by the inertial sensor 40 is acquired (step S12). This is achieved by the detection result acquisition unit 31.

[0078] Next, the roll angle φ is calculated (step S13). This is done by the vehicle tilt calculation unit 32. Here, it is assumed that the roll angle +φ is calculated because the vehicle V tilts to the right (to the right when facing forward of the vehicle V) (see Figure 2(c)).

[0079] Next, it is determined whether the roll angle φ exceeds a threshold (step S14). This is achieved by the ECU 30 executing a predetermined program.

[0080] As a result, if it is determined that the roll angle +φ does not exceed the threshold (step S14: No), that is, if the vehicle V is hardly tilted to the left or right, a horizontal line HL is displayed on the film light source 20 (step S15). Specifically, as shown in Figure 11(a), the film light source 20F is displayed with a line passing through the reference center point CP and the reference horizontal line AX. H The horizontal line HL extends parallel to it. 20F Display the following. Similarly, the left film light source 20L passes through the reference center point CP and the reference horizontal line AX. HA left horizontal line HL extending parallel to it 20L Display the following. Similarly, the right film light source 20R passes through the reference center point CP and the reference horizontal line AX. H A right horizontal line HL extending parallel to it 20R Display.

[0081] On the other hand, if the result of the determination in step S14 is that the roll angle φ exceeds the threshold (step S14: Yes), that is, if the vehicle V tilts to the right (or left) (see Figure 2(c)), then, as shown in Figure 11(b), a front horizontal line HL tilted at an angle -φ (see Figure 11(b)) opposite to the roll angle +φ (see Figure 2(c)) will be projected onto the front film light source 20F. 20F Display (step S16).

[0082] Next, the left film light source 20L is connected to the front horizontal line HL. 20F A horizontal line HL continues from the left edge. 20L Display (step S17). Left horizontal line HL 20L This is the left horizontal line HL shown in Figure 11(a). 20L The reference horizontal line AX H This corresponds to a downward shift of BL × tanφ. Note that BL is the distance between the reference center point CP and the boundary L (the boundary between the left film light source 20L and the front film light source 20F).

[0083] Next, the front horizontal line HL is set to the right film light source 20R. 20F A continuous right horizontal line HL at the right end 20R Display (step S18). Right horizontal line HL 20R This is the right horizontal line HL shown in Figure 11(a). 20R The reference horizontal line AX H This corresponds to a shift of BR × tanφ upwards from the original point. Note that BR is the distance between the reference center point CP and the boundary R (the boundary between the right film light source 20R and the front film light source 20F).

[0084] The processes described in steps S12 to S18 are repeatedly executed as long as the road conditions detected in step S10 meet the predetermined conditions (as long as the result of the determination in step S11 is YES).

[0085] Next, we will explain the horizontal line display process 2.

[0086] Figure 12 is a flowchart of the horizontal line display process 2. Figures 11(a) and 11(c) are examples of the horizontal line HL displayed as a result of the horizontal line display process 2.

[0087] The following describes the process of displaying a horizontal line HL on the film light source 20 when the vehicle V is tilted forward by an angle -θ (hereinafter referred to as the pitch angle -θ; see Figure 3(c)). For the sake of simplicity, the following explanation will only consider the pitch angle -θ and will not consider the roll angle φ.

[0088] First, the road conditions are detected (step S20). This is accomplished by the road condition detection unit 34.

[0089] Next, it is determined whether the road conditions detected in step S20 meet predetermined conditions (step S21). This is achieved by the ECU 30 executing a predetermined program. The predetermined conditions are those used to determine whether the road conditions detected in step S20 (the road currently being driven on or the road to be driven on) are road conditions that may induce motion sickness. These conditions include, for example, uphill roads (uphill roads with a certain gradient or greater), curved roads (curved roads with a certain curvature or greater), or straight roads where the vehicle is traveling at or below a predetermined acceleration force.

[0090] As a result, if it is determined that the road conditions detected in step S20 meet predetermined conditions (step S21: YES), the processes from step S22 onward are executed.

[0091] Next, the detection result output by the inertial sensor 40 is acquired (step S22). This is achieved by the detection result acquisition unit 31.

[0092] Next, the pitch angle θ is calculated (step S23). This is done by the vehicle tilt calculation unit 32. Here, it is assumed that the pitch angle -θ is calculated by tilting the vehicle V forward (see Figure 3(c)).

[0093] Next, it is determined whether the pitch angle θ exceeds a threshold (step S24). This is achieved by the ECU 30 executing a predetermined program.

[0094] As a result, if it is determined that the pitch angle θ does not exceed the threshold (step S24: No), that is, if the vehicle V is hardly tilted forward or backward, a horizontal line HL is displayed on the film light source 20 (step S25). Specifically, as shown in Figure 11(a), the front film light source 20F is shown passing through the reference center point CP and the reference horizontal line AX. H The horizontal line HL extends parallel to it. 20F Display the following. Similarly, the left film light source 20L passes through the reference center point CP and the reference horizontal line AX. H A left horizontal line HL extending parallel to it 20L Display the following. Similarly, the right film light source 20R passes through the reference center point CP and the reference horizontal line AX. H A right horizontal line HL extending parallel to it 20R Display.

[0095] On the other hand, if the result of the determination in step S24 is that the pitch angle θ exceeds the threshold (step S24: Yes), that is, if the vehicle V tilts forward (or backward), then, as shown in Figure 11(c), the front horizontal line HL is projected onto the front film light source 20F. 20F Display (step S26). The horizontal line HL displayed here. 20F It passes through the reference center point CP and the reference horizontal line AX. H It extends parallel to it.

[0096] Next, the left film light source 20L is connected to the front horizontal line HL. 20F The left horizontal line HL is continuous with the left end and is inclined by an angle -θ (see Figure 11(c)) similar to the pitch angle -θ (see Figure 3(c)). 20L Display (step S27).

[0097] Next, the front horizontal line HL is set to the right film light source 20R. 20F A horizontal line HL is continuous with the right end of the line and is inclined at an angle -θ (see Figure 11(c)) similar to the pitch angle -θ (see Figure 3(c)). 20R Display (step S28).

[0098] The processes described in steps S22 to S28 are repeatedly executed as long as the road conditions detected in step S20 meet predetermined conditions (as long as the determination result in step S21 is YES).

[0099] Although the horizontal line display process 1 and the horizontal line display process 2 have been explained separately, both processes may be executed simultaneously. Furthermore, the following bright spot display process may be executed in addition to these processes.

[0100] Next, we will explain the bright spot display process.

[0101] The bright spot display process is a process that displays a bright spot BP (see Figure 14) that moves along the horizontal line HL, corresponding to the acceleration and deceleration of the vehicle V, along with the horizontal line HL displayed in the horizontal line display process 1 or the horizontal line display process 2 described above.

[0102] Figure 13 is a flowchart of the bright spot display process. Figure 14 is an example of bright spot display.

[0103] The bright spot display process shown in Figure 13 is performed, for example, after steps S25 and S28 shown in Figure 12.

[0104] First, the detection result output by the inertial sensor 40 is acquired (step S30). This is achieved by the detection result acquisition unit 31.

[0105] Next, it is determined whether the acceleration exceeds a threshold (step S31), and if it is determined that it has exceeded the threshold, it is further determined whether it is accelerating or decelerating (step S32). This is achieved by the ECU 30 executing a predetermined program.

[0106] As a result, if acceleration is determined (Step S32: Acceleration), as shown in Figure 14(a), a bright spot BP (see Figure 14(b)) is displayed on the film light source 20 along with the horizontal line HL, moving in a direction corresponding to the acceleration of the vehicle V along the horizontal line HL, for example, starting from the rear ends of the left film light source 20L and the right film light source 20R and moving toward the central endpoint of the front film light source 20F (see arrow in Figure 14(a)).

[0107] On the other hand, if deceleration is determined (step S32: deceleration), as shown in Figure 14(b), a bright spot BP (see Figure 14(b)) is displayed along the horizontal line HL, moving in a direction corresponding to the deceleration of the vehicle V along the horizontal line HL, for example, starting from the center of the front film light source 20F and moving toward the endpoints of the rear ends of the left film light source 20L and the right film light source 20R (see arrow in Figure 14(b)).

[0108] The processes described in steps S30 to S34 are repeatedly executed as long as the road conditions detected in step S20 meet predetermined conditions (as long as the determination result in step S21 is YES).

[0109] In this way, by moving the bright point BP to match the perceived sensation, it is possible to reduce motion sickness felt during acceleration and deceleration by adding visual information, similar to how otoliths sense linear acceleration.

[0110] Conversely, if acceleration is detected (step S32: acceleration), a bright spot BP (see Figure 14(b)) may be displayed along with the horizontal line HL, for example, starting from the center of the front film light source 20F and moving toward the endpoints of the rear ends of the left film light source 20L and the right film light source 20R (see arrow in Figure 14(b)). Similarly, conversely, if deceleration is detected (step S32: deceleration), a bright spot BP (see Figure 14(b)) may be displayed on the film light source 20 along with the horizontal line HL, for example, starting from the rear ends of the left film light source 20L and the right film light source 20R and moving toward the central endpoint of the front film light source 20F (see arrow in Figure 14(a)). In this embodiment, the direction of movement of the bright spot is specified for acceleration and deceleration, but depending on the occupants and road conditions, it may be better to move in the opposite direction.

[0111] As explained above, according to this embodiment, it is possible to provide a person riding in the vehicle V with visual information about how much they are tilted relative to the horizontal (as a result, motion sickness caused by a lack of balance can be reduced).

[0112] This is achieved by displaying a horizontal line HL in the passenger compartment of a vehicle V, which is equipped with a passenger compartment, in a horizontal direction perpendicular to the direction of gravity of the vehicle V, regardless of the inclination of the vehicle V.

[0113] Furthermore, by displaying the horizontal line HL, passengers in vehicle V can predict its movements, allowing them to naturally brace themselves for its actions. This also provides a sense of security to passengers in vehicle V.

[0114] Next, I will explain some variations.

[0115] Figure 15 shows a modified example of the location where the film light source 20 is installed.

[0116] In the above embodiment, an example was described in which the film light source 20 is provided on the windshield FG, side windows SGL, and SGR of the vehicle V that constitute the wall surface surrounding the passenger space (see Figure 1), but it is not limited to this. For example, as shown in Figure 15(a), the film light source 20 may be provided on the front dashboard and side doors provided in the passenger space. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 15(b), the film light source 20 may also be provided on the rear seats (for example, the rear surface of the front seats and the rear dashboard).

[0117] Figure 16 is a diagram showing the configuration of a motion sickness reduction device 10 (modified example).

[0118] As shown in Figure 16, the motion sickness reduction device 10 may further include a horizontal line setting unit 35. The horizontal line setting unit 35 sets at least one of the color and width of the horizontal line HL by user operation. Furthermore, the horizontal line setting unit 35 may set the brightness (luminance) of the horizontal line HL by user operation. Although not shown, the horizontal line HL is displayed on the film light source 20 with the color, width, and brightness (luminance) set by the horizontal line setting unit 35.

[0119] Figure 17 shows a modified example of the display format of the horizontal line HL.

[0120] As shown in Figure 17(a), the film light source 20 may display a background color or background image BG along with a horizontal line HL. The background image BG may be a still image or a moving image.

[0121] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 17(b), the film light source 20 may display an image G that includes a horizontal line HL, for example, an image of a natural environment that includes a horizon corresponding to the horizontal line HL. Image G may be a still image or a moving image. In this way, it is expected that motion sickness will be reduced, as well as nervous excitement.

[0122] Furthermore, although the above embodiment described an example in which an automobile was used as the vehicle V, it is not limited to this. In other words, the vehicle V can be any configuration as long as it has a passenger space for one or more people to ride in, for example, it may be a vehicle other than an automobile such as a bus, an autonomous vehicle, a ship, a train, an airplane, or a spaceship.

[0123] Figure 18 shows a modified example in which a liquid crystal panel 20A is used instead of the film light source 20.

[0124] For example, if an autonomously driven vehicle is used as the vehicle V, a liquid crystal panel 20A may be provided instead of the film light source 20 to cover the entire area of ​​the windshield FG, side windows SGL, and SGR of the vehicle V that constitute the wall surface surrounding the passenger space, as shown in Figure 18.

[0125] In this way, in addition to displaying the horizontal line HL, the lighting environment of the entire passenger compartment can be controlled. For example, by displaying the horizontal line HL (e.g., green) on the LCD panel 20A, and displaying a calming color (e.g., black) in the background, the lighting environment of the entire passenger compartment can be controlled. This is expected to further reduce symptoms of motion sickness by controlling the activity of the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems. It can also suppress nervous excitement.

[0126] Furthermore, although the above embodiment describes an example in which a film light source 20 is used as the display device, it is not limited to this. That is, the display device can be configured in any way that can display a horizontal line HL, for example, a liquid crystal display installed in the passenger space, a projector that projects the horizontal line HL onto a screen installed in the passenger space (for example, the wall surface surrounding the passenger space), or an aerial visible image drawing device that displays (draws) the horizontal line HL on the passenger space itself. Also, the medium for displaying the horizontal line HL can be anything provided in the passenger space. In other words, there are no restrictions on the surface or position of the medium for displaying the horizontal line HL.

[0127] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, an example was described in which the process from step S12 onwards is executed when it is determined that the road conditions meet predetermined conditions (step S11: YES) (see Figure 10), but the system is not limited to this. For example, if a person riding in vehicle V turns on a horizontal line display switch (not shown) provided in the passenger space, the process from step S12 onwards may be executed. Similarly, an example was described in which the process from step S22 onwards is executed when it is determined that the road conditions meet predetermined conditions (step S21: YES) (see Figure 12), but the system is not limited to this. For example, if a person riding in vehicle V turns on a horizontal line display switch (not shown) provided in the passenger space, the process from step S22 onwards may be executed.

[0128] Figure 19 shows a modified example using an autonomously driven vehicle as vehicle V.

[0129] In the above embodiment, an example was described in which the horizontal line HL is displayed on a part of the wall surface surrounding the passenger space (the windshield FG, side windows SGL, SGR of the vehicle V that constitute the wall surface) (see Figure 1), but the invention is not limited to this. The windshield refers to the glass or wall surface on the side of the vehicle V in the direction of travel, the side windows refer to the glass or wall surface on the vehicle width side (or the horizontal side perpendicular to the direction of travel) of the vehicle V, and the rear window refers to the glass or wall surface on the side of the vehicle V opposite to the direction of travel. The windshield and the like may be made of materials other than glass, such as plastics like polycarbonate. Furthermore, they may be opaque materials, or even translucent colored materials or opaque colored materials.

[0130] For example, as shown in Figure 19, if an autonomously driven vehicle is used as the vehicle V, the horizontal line HL may be displayed around the entire perimeter of the wall surrounding the passenger space. Figure 19 is a schematic diagram representing a vehicle V (autonomously driven vehicle) traveling uphill.

[0131] The numerical values ​​shown in each of the embodiments described above are all examples, and it goes without saying that other appropriate numerical values ​​can be used.

[0132] The embodiments described above are in all respects merely illustrative. The descriptions of the embodiments above should not be construed as limiting the disclosure. The disclosure can be implemented in a variety of other ways without departing from its spirit or main features. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0133] 10…Reduction device 20…Film light source (display device) 20A…LCD panel 20F…Front film light source 20L…Left film light source 20R…Right film light source 30…ECU 31...Detection result acquisition unit 32... Vehicle tilt calculation unit 33... Horizontal line display section 34...Road condition detection unit 35... Horizontal line setting section 40…Inertial sensor 50…Imaging device 60…Navigation device 70...Interior lights 71...Control circuit A V …Gravity direction AX H …Reference horizontal line BG...Background image BP…Bright spot CP…Reference center point FG...windshield G...Image HL... Horizontal line HL 20F ...front horizontal line HL 20L ...left horizontal line HL 20R ...right horizontal line HL S1 ~HL S3 ...horizontal line PR1~PR3...Projector S1~S3...Screen SGL, SGR... side glass TS… Subject V...vehicles θ…Pitch angle φ…roll angle

Claims

1. A vehicle having a passenger compartment is provided with a display device that displays a horizontal line extending horizontally in the passenger compartment, perpendicular to the direction of gravity of the vehicle, regardless of the inclination of the vehicle. The display device is a motion sickness reduction device that displays a bright spot that moves along the horizontal line in a direction corresponding to the acceleration and deceleration of the vehicle, along with the horizontal line.

2. The vehicle further comprises a road condition detection unit that detects the road conditions on which the vehicle is traveling. The motion sickness reduction device according to claim 1, wherein the display device displays the horizontal line when the road conditions meet predetermined conditions.

3. The motion sickness reduction device according to claim 2, wherein the predetermined conditions are a slope, a curved road, or a straight road where the vehicle is traveling at or below a predetermined acceleration force.

4. The display device is located on the side of the vehicle, When the vehicle accelerates, the bright spot starts from the rear end of the lateral display device and moves. The motion sickness reduction device according to claim 1, wherein when the vehicle decelerates, the bright spot moves toward the endpoint of the rear end of the lateral display device.

5. The display device is positioned in front of the vehicle, When the vehicle accelerates, the bright spot moves toward the central endpoint of the forward display device. The motion sickness reduction device according to claim 4, wherein when the vehicle decelerates, the bright spot starts from the center of the forward display device and moves.

6. The display device is located on the side of the vehicle, When the vehicle accelerates, the bright spot moves toward the rear end of the lateral display device. The motion sickness reduction device according to claim 1, wherein when the vehicle decelerates, the bright spot starts from the rear end of the lateral display device and moves.

7. The display device is positioned in front of the vehicle, When the vehicle accelerates, the bright spot starts from the center of the forward display device and moves. The motion sickness reduction device according to claim 6, wherein when the vehicle decelerates, the bright spot moves toward the central endpoint of the forward display device.

8. The motion sickness reduction device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the display device is provided on the windshield and side windows that constitute the wall surface surrounding the passenger space.

9. The motion sickness reduction device according to claim 8, wherein the display device is further provided on the rear glass which constitutes the wall surface surrounding the passenger space.

10. The motion sickness reduction device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the display device is provided on the front dashboard and side doors of the passenger compartment.

11. The motion sickness reduction device according to claim 10, wherein the display device is further provided on the rear dashboard provided in the passenger space.

12. The motion sickness reduction device according to claim 1, wherein the display device is a film-like film light source.

13. The motion sickness reduction device according to claim 12, wherein the film light source is an organic EL or a film-type LED.

14. The motion sickness reduction device according to claim 1, wherein the display device is a liquid crystal display installed in the passenger space, or a projector that projects the horizontal line onto a screen installed in the passenger space.

15. The system further includes a horizontal line setting unit for setting at least one of the color and width of the horizontal line, The motion sickness reduction device according to claim 1, wherein the display device displays the horizontal line with the set color and width.

16. The motion sickness reduction device according to claim 1, wherein the display device is provided on at least a portion of the wall surface surrounding the four sides of the passenger space.

17. A motion sickness reduction device according to Claim 1, wherein the motion sickness reduction device displays a bright spot in the passenger space of a vehicle having a passenger space for a person to sit in, along with a horizontal line extending in a horizontal direction perpendicular to the direction of gravity of the vehicle, regardless of the tilt of the vehicle, and moves along the horizontal line in a direction corresponding to the acceleration and deceleration of the vehicle.

Images