Display control device and method for vehicle, display device for vehicle, vehicle

Abstract

The present application relates to a display control device for a vehicle, a display device for a vehicle, a vehicle, a display control method for a vehicle, and a non-transitory computer-readable recording medium recording a display control program for a vehicle. The display control device for a vehicle is configured to cause a display to display in accordance with a kind of a selected shift range, by changing a display ratio of a first display region displaying a shift range of the vehicle and a second display region displaying a vehicle speed of the vehicle.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a display control device for vehicles, a display device for vehicles, a vehicle, a display control method for vehicles, and a non-transitory computer-readable recording medium on which a display control program for vehicles is recorded. Background Technology

[0002] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2021-094954 discloses a vehicle driving assistance device configured to display shift lever setting position information, i.e., shift range, on an instrument display located in front of the driver of the vehicle. In Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2021-094954, the display of the shift range is increased for a predetermined period of time after the shift range is set, making it easier for the driver to identify the shift range.

[0003] However, in the technology described in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2021-094954, although the gear shift position is easy to identify, the information required on the display varies depending on the driving scenario, and it is desirable that the information most needed in each driving scenario is easier to identify. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The purpose of this disclosure is to provide a vehicle display control device, a vehicle display device, a vehicle, a vehicle display control method, and a non-transitory computer-readable recording medium on which a vehicle display control program is recorded, which allows a user to visually confirm information needed in a driving scenario without the user's awareness.

[0005] The first method relates to a display control device for a vehicle, comprising a memory and a processor connected to the memory, the processor being configured to change the display ratio of a first display area displaying the vehicle's shift gear and a second display area displaying the vehicle's speed according to the type of shift gear selected, thereby enabling the display to perform a display.

[0006] In the vehicle display control device of the first method, the display ratio of the first display area showing the vehicle's shift gear and the second display area showing the vehicle's speed is changed according to the selected shift gear. Therefore, since more important information can be displayed larger, the user can visually confirm the information needed in the driving scenario without realizing it.

[0007] The second method is based on the vehicle display control device described in the first method, wherein the processor is configured to make the first display area for displaying the parking gear, neutral gear, or reverse gear larger than the second display area when the gear shift position is parking gear, neutral gear, or reverse gear.

[0008] In the second type of vehicle display control device, when the gear is in Park, Neutral, or Reverse, the first display area showing Park, Neutral, or Reverse is larger than the second display area. Therefore, since the display shows the gear as greater than the vehicle speed when in Park, Neutral, or Reverse, the user can more easily visually confirm the gear position compared to the vehicle speed. This helps to prevent the user from accidentally pressing the accelerator and brake pedals incorrectly.

[0009] The third method is a vehicle display control device according to the first or second method, wherein the processor is configured to make the second display area larger than the first display area displaying the forward gear when the shift gear is a forward gear.

[0010] In the vehicle display control device of the third type, when the gear is in forward gear, the second display area for displaying the vehicle speed is made larger than the first display area for displaying the forward gear. Therefore, while the vehicle is in motion, the user can more easily perceive the vehicle speed compared to the gear position. This helps to suppress excessive acceleration caused by the user.

[0011] The fourth method is a vehicle display control device according to any one of the methods 1 to 3, wherein the processor is configured to obtain the driving mode of the vehicle and change the display ratio according to the obtained driving mode.

[0012] In the vehicle display control device disclosed in the fourth aspect, since the layout, including the display ratio, is changed according to the driving mode, the optimal layout corresponding to the driving mode can be displayed, and the user can eliminate the complexity of display settings such as switching the instrument display for each driving mode.

[0013] The fifth aspect relates to a display device for a vehicle, comprising: a display control device for a vehicle according to any one of the first to fourth aspects; and the display screen for displaying the first display area and the second display area.

[0014] The vehicle display device of the fifth embodiment includes a vehicle display control device of any one of the first to fourth embodiments; and a display screen that displays a first display area and a second display area. Since the vehicle display control device is a vehicle display control device of any one of the first to fourth embodiments, the above-mentioned functions and effects can be obtained.

[0015] The sixth method relates to a vehicle, wherein the vehicle display device described in the fifth method is provided.

[0016] The vehicle of the sixth type is equipped with the vehicle display device of the fifth type. Since the vehicle display device is the vehicle display device of the fifth type, and the vehicle display control device is the vehicle display control device of any one of the first to fourth types, the above-mentioned functions and effects can be obtained.

[0017] The seventh method relates to a display control method for a vehicle, wherein the display is activated by a processor changing the display ratio of a first display area showing the vehicle's shift gear and a second display area showing the vehicle's speed according to the type of shift gear selected.

[0018] In the vehicle display control method of the seventh type, the display ratio of the first display area showing the vehicle's shift gear and the second display area showing the vehicle's speed is changed according to the selected shift gear type, thereby enabling the display to show the information. Therefore, since more important information can be displayed larger, the user can visually confirm the information needed in the driving scenario without realizing it.

[0019] The eighth method relates to a non-transitory computer-readable recording medium, wherein a vehicle display control program is recorded, which causes a computer to perform the following process: changing the display ratio of a first display area displaying the vehicle's shift gear and a second display area displaying the vehicle's speed according to the type of shift gear selected, thereby causing the display to display.

[0020] In the eighth method, a non-transitory computer-readable recording medium containing a vehicle display control program is used to instruct a computer to perform the following processing: The display ratio of a first display area showing the vehicle's shift gear and a second display area showing the vehicle's speed is adjusted according to the selected shift gear type, causing the display to show the information. Therefore, since more important information can be displayed larger, the user can visually confirm the information needed in a driving scenario without realizing it.

[0021] As explained above, based on the vehicle display control device, vehicle display device, vehicle, vehicle display control method, and non-transitory computer-readable recording medium containing the vehicle display control program disclosed herein, users can visually confirm the information needed in a driving scenario without realizing it. Attached Figure Description

[0022] Figure 1 This is a simplified diagram of the front of the passenger compartment of a vehicle equipped with the vehicle display device described in this embodiment, viewed from the rear of the vehicle.

[0023] Figure 2 This is a block diagram illustrating the hardware structure of the vehicle display device according to this embodiment.

[0024] Figure 3 This is a block diagram illustrating the functional structure of the vehicle display control device according to this embodiment.

[0025] Figure 4 This is a diagram showing an example of the display in normal mode of the display in this embodiment.

[0026] Figure 5 This is an enlarged view of an example of a display in D mode.

[0027] Figure 6 This is an enlarged view of an example of the display when the car is in Park (P) position.

[0028] Figure 7 This is a diagram showing an example of the motion mode of the display in this embodiment.

[0029] Figure 8 This is an example diagram of a display showing the D gear in Sport mode.

[0030] Figure 9 This is an example diagram of a display showing the M mode in Sport mode.

[0031] Figure 10 This is an example diagram showing the operation screen of a head-up display.

[0032] Figure 11 This is an example diagram showing the status display screen of a head-up display.

[0033] Figure 12 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the display processing flow in this embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0034] Referring to the accompanying drawings, a vehicle 12 equipped with a vehicle display device 10 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure will be described. In the following description, the vertical and horizontal directions refer to the vertical direction of the vehicle and the horizontal direction of the vehicle.

[0035] like Figure 1 As shown, an instrument panel 14 is provided at the front of the passenger compartment of vehicle 12. The instrument panel 14 extends along the width of the vehicle, and a steering wheel 16 is provided on the right side of the instrument panel 14. That is, as an example, this embodiment is a right-hand drive vehicle with the steering wheel 16 provided on the right side, and the driver's seat is located on the right side of the vehicle.

[0036] The steering wheel 16 has a generally circular rim portion 16A, and a hub portion 16B forming the central portion is provided on the inner circumference of the rim portion 16A. Furthermore, the right side of the rim portion 16A is connected to the hub portion 16B via spokes 16C, and the left side of the rim portion 16A is connected to the hub portion 16B via spokes 16C. The hub portion 16B of the steering wheel 16 is fixed to the rear end of the steering axle and supported by the vehicle body, allowing it to rotate. The vehicle 12 is steered by rotating the steering wheel 16 (rim portion 16A) to rotate the steering axle.

[0037] Additionally, in the steering wheel 16, a steering wheel switch 30 (described later) is disposed in the spoke portion 16C, and the steering wheel switch 30 can be operated by the occupant. Among these features... Figure 1 The image shows the steering wheel 16 when the vehicle is traveling straight.

[0038] The steering wheel switch 30 includes a right first operation switch 34R, a right second operation switch 36R, a right function switch 38R, a left first operation switch 34L, a left second operation switch 36L, and a left function switch 38L. The right first operation switch 34R, right second operation switch 36R, and right function switch 38R are located on the right wheel spoke portion 16C. The left first operation switch 34L, left second operation switch 36L, and left function switch 38L are located on the left wheel spoke portion 16C.

[0039] The right first operating switch 34R is roughly rectangular in shape and is located in the upper right part of the spoke portion 16C on the right side. Furthermore, the right first operating switch 34R has a structure capable of inputting in four directions: up, down, left, and right, each assigned a function.

[0040] In this embodiment, as an example, an electrostatic sensor is mounted on the right first operation switch 34R. The occupant selects the desired function by contacting the right first operation switch 34R. Furthermore, the selected function is executed by the occupant pressing the right first operation switch 34R while the function is selected. The same electrostatic sensor is also mounted on the right second operation switch 36R, the right function switch 38R, the left first operation switch 34L, the left second operation switch 36L, and the left function switch 38L.

[0041] The second right operating switch 36R is formed into a roughly elongated rectangle with the vertical direction as its length, and is positioned to the left of the first right operating switch 34R. Furthermore, the second right operating switch 36R is designed to receive inputs in both the vertical and horizontal directions, and each direction is assigned a function.

[0042] The right function switch 38R is formed as a roughly elongated rectangle with the left-right direction as its length, and is positioned below the right first operating switch 34R and the right second operating switch 36R. Furthermore, the right function switch 38R serves as a switch for switching functions. Specifically, operating the right function switch 38R switches the functions assigned to the right first operating switch 34R and the right second operating switch 36R. In this embodiment, as an example, each operating switch is assigned two functions, configured such that the function is switched whenever the right function switch 38R is operated.

[0043] The left first operating switch 34L is formed into a roughly rectangular shape, symmetrical to the right first operating switch 34R, and is located in the upper left part of the left spoke portion 16C. Furthermore, the left first operating switch 34L has a structure capable of inputting in four directions: up, down, left, and right, each assigned a function.

[0044] The second left operating switch 36L is formed into a roughly elongated rectangular shape, symmetrical to the second right operating switch 36R, and is positioned to the right of the first left operating switch 34L. Furthermore, the second left operating switch 36L is designed to allow input in both upward and downward directions, each direction being assigned a function.

[0045] The left function switch 38L is formed into a roughly elongated rectangular shape, symmetrical to the right function switch 38R, and is positioned below the left first operating switch 34L and the left second operating switch 36L. Furthermore, the left function switch 38L serves as a switch for switching functions. Specifically, operating the left function switch 38L switches the functions assigned to the left first operating switch 34L and the left second operating switch 36L.

[0046] Additionally, a windshield glass 17 is provided at the front end of the dashboard 14. The windshield glass 17 extends along the vertical direction and the width direction of the vehicle, dividing the interior of the passenger compartment from the exterior of the passenger compartment.

[0047] The right end of the windshield 17 is fixed to the right front pillar 18 of the vehicle. The front pillar 18 extends vertically along the vehicle, and the windshield 17 is fixed to the inner end of the front pillar 18 in the vehicle width direction. Additionally, the front end of the front side glass 19 is fixed to the outer end of the front pillar 18 in the vehicle width direction. Furthermore, the left end of the windshield 17 is fixed to the left front pillar of the vehicle.

[0048] Here, a first display unit (first display) 24 with an image display area V1 is provided on the instrument panel 14. The image display area V1 is formed by an instrument display located in front of the driver's seat on the right side of the instrument panel 14. The first display unit 24 is connected to various instrument devices mounted on the vehicle 12, and the display area V1 is positioned to enter the driver's field of vision when the driver's gaze is directed forward.

[0049] A second display unit (second display) 26 with an image display area V2 is provided on the windshield 17. The display area V2 is located on the vehicle-top side of the display area V1, and the display area V2 is provided by the head-up display device 44 (see reference). Figure 2 The projection surface is formed by the head-up display device 44. Specifically, a head-up display device 44 is provided on the front side of the instrument panel 14, configured to project images from the head-up display device 44 onto the display area V2 of the second display unit 26 of the windshield 17. That is, the display area V2 is part of the windshield 17 that forms the projection surface of the head-up display device 44. The first display unit 24 may be, for example, a liquid crystal display, an organic EL display, a touch panel display, etc., but is not limited to these.

[0050] (Hardware structure of vehicle display device 10)

[0051] The vehicle 12 is equipped with a control unit, namely a display control ECU (Electronic Control Unit) 28, which serves as a display device 10 for the vehicle, i.e., a display control device for the vehicle. Figure 2 This is a block diagram showing the hardware structure of the vehicle display device 10.

[0052] like Figure 2 As shown, the display control ECU 28 of the vehicle display device 10 is configured to include, for example, a hardware processor, namely a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 40A, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 40B equivalent to a memory, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 40C, a storage device 40D, a communication interface (communication I / F) 40E, and an input / output interface (input / output I / F) 40F. These components are connected via a bus 42 to enable communication between them.

[0053] CPU 40A executes various programs and controls various components. That is, CPU 40A downloads programs from ROM 40B or memory 40D and executes programs using RAM 40C as its working area. CPU 40A performs control of the aforementioned components and various arithmetic operations based on the programs recorded in ROM 40B or memory 40D.

[0054] ROM 40B stores various programs and data. RAM 40C serves as a working area to temporarily store programs or data. Storage 40D, composed of an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or SSD (Solid State Drive), stores various programs, including the operating system, and various data. In this embodiment, ROM 40B or storage 40D stores programs and various data used for display processing.

[0055] The Communication I / F40E is an interface for communication between the vehicle display device 10 and servers and other devices, such as Ethernet (registered trademark), LTE, FDDI, Wi-Fi (registered trademark) and other standards.

[0056] The first display unit 24 and the head-up display device (HUD) 44 are connected to the input / output I / F 40F. The head-up display device 44 projects images onto the display area V2 of the second display unit 26.

[0057] In addition, the input / output I / O 40F is connected to the system bus 43 provided in the vehicle 12. The system bus 43 is connected to the switch control device 45, the gear shift control device 46, the driving mode control unit 47, the vehicle control device 48, and the on-board equipment 49, etc.

[0058] The switch control device 45 is connected to various switches, including the steering wheel switch 30, which serve as selection and setting mechanisms, and controls the inputs from these switches. In this embodiment, the switch control device 45 detects the operating state of the steering wheel switch 30 and outputs it to the display control ECU 28 via the system bus 43.

[0059] The gear shift control device 46 is connected to the gear shift lever 50 of the vehicle 12. The gear shift control device 46 detects the set position of the gear shift lever 50, i.e., the gear shift position, and sends a signal indicating the detected gear shift position to the input / output I / F 40F. The gear shift lever 50 is set in a position that can be operated by the driver sitting in the driver's seat.

[0060] In this embodiment, as an example, the gear shift lever 50 is configured to be able to switch to P (Park), R (Reverse), N (Neutral), and D (Drive). It can also be configured to switch to S (Second) and L (Low) gears. Furthermore, it can be configured to switch to M (Manual) gear when the driving mode described later is Sport mode.

[0061] The driving mode control unit 47 controls the driving mode of the vehicle 12. The vehicle 12 has multiple preset driving modes. As an example, in this embodiment, the multiple driving modes consist of three driving modes: normal mode, eco mode, and sport mode. The normal mode is set normally, allowing for driving with good power performance and fuel economy. The eco mode is a low-fuel-consumption driving mode that prioritizes fuel economy over power performance compared to the normal mode. The sport mode is a high-power driving mode that prioritizes power performance over fuel economy compared to the normal mode. The driving mode immediately after the vehicle 12 is started is set to normal mode. As an example, the driving mode control unit 47 sends a signal indicating the selected driving mode to the input / output I / F 40F based on the driving mode selection operation via the steering wheel switch 30.

[0062] The vehicle control unit 48 is equipped with various control ECUs, including a vehicle control ECU for driving control, an engine ECU for engine control, a steering control ECU for steering operation control, a brake control ECU for braking control, and a transmission control ECU for transmission control. Furthermore, as driving assistance functions for maintaining a safe distance from the vehicle ahead, it is equipped with ADAS (Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems) devices such as a function to maintain vehicle speed and distance to the vehicle ahead (ACC; Adaptive Cruise Control) and a function to warn of the possibility of leaving the lane or driving path and assist in some steering wheel operations to avoid leaving the lane or driving path (LKA; Lane Keeping Assist). The vehicle control unit 48 works in conjunction with each control ECU to control the driving of the vehicle 12. In addition, in the vehicle 12, the ADAS devices work in conjunction with the vehicle control unit 48 as driving assistance devices to provide driving assistance functions that assist the occupants in driving operations.

[0063] The vehicle-mounted equipment 49 includes various devices such as air conditioning units, audio systems, car navigation systems, and voice input systems, as well as various sensor devices such as cameras, radar, optical radar (LIDAR; Light Detection and Ranging or Laser Imaging Detection and Ranging), and GPS (global positioning system) sensors, which are mounted on the vehicle 12.

[0064] (Functional structure of display control ECU28)

[0065] The display control ECU28 uses the aforementioned hardware resources to implement various functions. (Refer to...) Figure 3 The functional structure implemented by the display control ECU28 is explained.

[0066] like Figure 3 As shown, the display control ECU 28 is configured with a driving mode acquisition unit 52, a gear shift acquisition unit 54, and a display control unit 56 as its functional structure. Each functional structure is implemented by the CPU 40A reading and executing a program stored in the ROM 40B or the memory 40D.

[0067] The driving mode acquisition unit 52 acquires the current driving mode of the vehicle 12. As an example, in this embodiment, the driving mode acquisition unit 52 acquires the currently set driving mode by acquiring a signal indicating the driving mode sent by the driving mode control unit 47 via the input / output I / F 40F.

[0068] The gear shift position acquisition unit 54 acquires the current gear shift position (shift position) of the vehicle 12. As an example, in this embodiment, the gear shift position acquisition unit 54 acquires the currently set gear shift position by acquiring a signal indicating the gear shift position sent by the gear shift position control device 46 via the input / output I / F 40F.

[0069] The display control unit 56 acquires information corresponding to the driving and operating states of the vehicle 12 via the system bus 43, displays the image corresponding to the acquired information as a display screen in the display area V1 of the first display unit 24, and displays it in the display area V2 of the second display unit 26 via the HUD 44. In the display control ECU 28, under stable conditions of the vehicle 12, the information to be displayed in the display area V1 of the first display unit 24 and the format of the image used to display that information are determined.

[0070] like Figure 4 As shown, the image 60 displayed in the display area V1 of the first display unit 24 is approximately rectangular. Image 60 represents the engine speed, and a tachometer image 60A for representing the engine speed is arranged in the center. Narrow, arc-shaped scale bars 60B are arranged circumferentially along the tachometer image 60A. Furthermore, a colored numerical bar 60C representing the current engine speed is arranged along the scale bar 60B. The engine speed is displayed by setting the left end of the circumferential direction to 0 rpm and extending the right end of the numerical bar 60C according to the engine speed.

[0071] Additionally, in image 60, the central portion is the gear shift display area 60D, which serves as the first display area. The gear shift position of the transmission is displayed in the gear shift display area 60D, and the display changes as the gear shift position changes. Furthermore, above the gear shift display area 60D in image 60 is the vehicle speed display area 60E, which serves as the second display area. The vehicle speed display area 60E displays a value corresponding to the vehicle speed of the vehicle 12. In this embodiment, as an example, the gear shift display area 60D and the vehicle speed display area 60E are rectangular areas represented by a single-dotted line in the figure.

[0072] Additionally, in image 60, a rectangular display area 60F is provided below the gear shift display area 60D. This display area 60F is set as part of the display area V1 of the first display unit 24. If the display control unit 56 receives information or information images related to an event that should be reported from the vehicle control device 48 of the vehicle 12 or various in-vehicle devices 49, it selects a display screen from multiple display screens to be displayed in the display area 60F based on the received information, and causes the display area 60F to display the information. The multiple display screens are stored, for example, in the memory 40D as image data representing each display screen.

[0073] As an example, multiple display screens include driving information such as traffic and road information received via the communication I / F40E, driving information such as fuel consumption information of vehicle 12, an energy monitor for providing information on the correlation between tires, battery, and energy, and an audio status screen for providing audio operation status. The display control unit 56 switches the display screens on the display area 60F. Furthermore, as an example, the display control unit 56 can also switch the display of multiple display screens based on operations related to the steering wheel switch 30. Among these, in... Figure 4 In the display area 60F, an energy monitor is displayed.

[0074] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the display control unit 56 adjusts the display ratio of the shift display area 60D to the vehicle speed display area 60E according to the selected shift gear type. Specifically, as... Figure 5 As shown, when the gear shift lever 50 is set to the D position, that is, when the gear shift acquisition unit 54 obtains the D position, the vehicle speed display content will change compared to the gear shift position. Since vehicle speed is often the information that the user needs, the display control unit 56 makes the vehicle speed display area 60E larger than the gear shift display area 60D.

[0075] In addition, such as Figure 6As shown, when the gear shift lever 50 is set to the P position, that is, when the gear shift acquisition unit 54 has acquired the P position, since the vehicle speed value does not change, the gear shift information is often needed by the user. Therefore, the display control unit 56 makes the gear shift display area 60D larger than the vehicle speed display area 60E. Similarly, when the gear shift lever 50 is set to the N and R positions, since the vehicle speed value also does not change, the gear shift information is often needed by the user. Therefore, the display control unit 56 makes the gear shift display area 60D larger than the vehicle speed display area 60E.

[0076] Specifically, as an example, images representing the content to be displayed in the shift display area 60D and the vehicle speed display area 60E are pre-stored in the memory 40D in different sizes. The display control unit 56 retrieves the corresponding image from the memory 40D according to the type of shift gear obtained by the shift gear acquisition unit 54, and causes the shift display area 60D and the vehicle speed display area 60E to display the content represented by the retrieved image.

[0077] In this embodiment, for example, when the gear position displayed in the gear shift display area 60D is changed, the display control unit 56 can display the change by inverting the image displayed in the gear shift display area 60D. Similarly, when the value displayed in the vehicle speed display area 60E is changed, the display control unit 56 can display the change by inverting the image displayed in the vehicle speed display area 60E.

[0078] Furthermore, the display control unit 56 also changes the layout of the display ratio of the gear shift display area 60D and the vehicle speed display area 60E according to the driving mode obtained by the driving mode acquisition unit 52. Specifically, when the driving mode acquisition unit 52 obtains the normal mode and the energy-saving mode, such as Figure 4 As shown, the display control unit 56 displays a normal mode image on the tachometer image 60A, which is used to indicate engine speed, with narrow, arc-shaped scale bars 60B arranged in a circular pattern. Furthermore, when the driving mode acquisition unit 52 acquires the energy-saving mode, the display control unit 56 displays driving information, such as fuel consumption information, for the vehicle 12 on the display area 60F.

[0079] Furthermore, when the driving mode acquisition unit 52 acquires the sport mode, the display control unit 56 causes the display area V1 of the first display unit 24 to display the screen represented by the image 70. As an example, such as... Figure 7As shown, image 70 is configured with a tachometer image 70A for displaying engine speed. Narrow, straight scale bars 70B are arranged horizontally in the tachometer image 70A. Furthermore, numerical bars 70C, representing the current engine speed and divided into multiple segments, are arranged along the scale bars 70B. The color of the numerical bars 70C, with the left end set to 0 rpm and divided according to the engine speed, is changed (see reference). Figure 8 (This is used to display engine speed.)

[0080] Furthermore, in image 70, the central portion is the gear shift display area 70D, which serves as the first display area, and above the gear shift display area 70D is the vehicle speed display area 70E, which serves as the second display area. In this embodiment, as an example, the gear shift display area 70D and the vehicle speed display area 70E are rectangular areas shown by a single-dotted line in the figure. Additionally, in image 70, a rectangular display area 70F is also provided below the gear shift display area 70D. This display area 70F has the same function as the aforementioned display area 60F.

[0081] As described above, the display control unit 56 changes the layout of the display area V1 according to the driving mode, as shown in Figure 60 or Figure 70. Regardless of whether Figure 60 or Figure 70 is displayed, the display control unit 56, as described above, adjusts the display ratio of the shift display areas 60D and 70D to the vehicle speed display areas 60E and 70E according to the selected shift gear.

[0082] Furthermore, if the driving mode acquisition unit 52 has acquired the sport mode and the gear shift acquisition unit 54 has acquired the D gear, such as Figure 8 As shown, since the displayed information about the vehicle speed will change compared to the gear shift, and since vehicle speed is often the information that users need, the display control unit 56 makes the vehicle speed display area 70E larger than the gear shift display area 70D.

[0083] On the other hand, when the driving mode acquisition unit 52 has acquired the sport mode and the gear shift acquisition unit 54 has acquired the M gear, such as Figure 9 As shown, the display control unit 56 makes the vehicle speed display area 70E larger than the gear shift display area 70D, and moves the vehicle speed display area 70E to the right in the image 70, while placing the gear shift display area 70D in the center of the image 70. When the M gear is set, the text "M" indicating manual mode and the numbers indicating gear shift are displayed in the gear shift display area 70D. Figure 9 (The number in the middle is "2"), which will make the number appear larger than the text "M".

[0084] Furthermore, in this embodiment, such as Figure 8as well as Figure 9 As shown, image 70G displays the vehicle ahead. For example, with the car in Drive (D) gear, as shown... Figure 8 As shown, image 70G is displayed to the right of the shift display area 70D. For example, when the M gear is set, as shown... Figure 9 As shown, image 70G is displayed to the left of the shift display area 70D.

[0085] Additionally, when the steering wheel switch 30 is operated, such as Figure 10 As shown, the display control unit 56 displays the image 80 in the display area V2. As an example, Figure 10 The illustration shows the occupants and Figure 1 The right first operation switch 34R is shown in its contact state, i.e., in the function setting state. In image 80, a speed image 80M representing the current speed of vehicle 12 is displayed in the lower left portion. As an example, the speed image 80M shows the speed, a roughly arc-shaped indicator located above the speed, and a shift gear located to the left of the speed.

[0086] Additionally, a right operation image 80S is displayed on the right side of image 80. The right operation image 80S is configured to include a right first operation switch image 34RM that mimics the shape of a right first operation switch 34R, a right second operation switch image 36RM that mimics the shape of a right second operation switch 36R, and a right function switch image 38RM that mimics the shape of a right function switch 38R.

[0087] Here, as an example, the icon is not displayed on the right side of the first operating switch image 34RM. This is because, in the absence of an assigned function, the icon is not displayed.

[0088] On the left side of the right first operating switch image 34RM, there is a workshop setting icon 34RM1 related to workshop settings. If this workshop setting icon 34RM1 is selected, workshop settings can be performed. That is, the left side of the right first operating switch 34R is assigned the workshop setting function.

[0089] If the occupant contacts the left side of the right first operating switch 34R, the workshop setting icon 34RM1 is highlighted as the function currently in the setting compared to other icons. In image 80, the workshop setting image 80G related to the workshop setting is displayed above the speed image 80M. In this state, the workshop setting function is executed by the occupant pressing the left side of the right first operating switch 34R.

[0090] If the functions set in the workshop are executed, then as follows: Figure 11As shown, the display control unit 56 displays image 90 in display area V2. In image 90, a magnified version of the speed image 80M, i.e., speed image 90M, is displayed at the lower center. Above speed image 90M, a workshop setting image 90G is displayed, indicating that a workshop setting function is currently being executed. To indicate that a workshop setting function is being executed, the display control unit 56 displays workshop setting image 90G in a color that is more emphasized than workshop setting image 80G.

[0091] (Display processing)

[0092] Next, use Figure 12 The flowchart shown illustrates the vehicle display control processing executed in the display control ECU 28. The display control processing is performed by the CPU 40A reading the display control program from the ROM 40B or memory 40D, expanding it into the RAM 40C, and executing it. Specifically, the following processing begins after the display control ECU 28 issues an instruction to turn the display screen on (ON).

[0093] like Figure 12 As shown, in step S11, the display control ECU28 turns on the display screen (display area V1) of the first display unit 24 and the head-up display device 44 (display area V2).

[0094] Next, the driving mode acquisition unit 52 acquires the current driving mode in step S12. Then, in step S13, the display control unit 56 causes the display area V1 to display an image with a layout corresponding to the driving mode acquired by the driving mode acquisition unit 52, as described above.

[0095] Next, the gear shift acquisition unit 54 acquires the current gear shift in step S14. Then, the display control unit 56 determines in step S15 whether the gear shift acquired by the gear shift acquisition unit 54 is D gear. If the gear shift is D gear (step S15; Yes), the display control unit 56 displays the vehicle speed display area 60E, 70E larger than the gear shift display area 60D, 70E in step S16. On the other hand, if the gear shift is not D gear in step S15, that is, if it is P gear, N gear, or R gear (step S15; No), the display control unit 56 displays the gear shift display area 60D, 70D larger than the vehicle speed display area 60E, 70E in step S17.

[0096] Next, in step S18, the CPU 40A determines whether there is an indication to turn off the display screen. If there is no indication to turn off (step S18; No), the CPU 40A moves the process to step S12 and repeats the process after step S12. On the other hand, if there is an indication to turn off in step S18 (step S18; Yes), the display control ECU 28 turns off the display screen (display area V1) of the first display unit 24 and the head-up display device 44 (display area V2) in step S19, ending the series of processes.

[0097] Thus, before the display screen is turned off, the display control ECU28 changes the layout of the display screen in the display area V1 according to the driving mode, and changes the display ratio of the shift display areas 60D and 70D and the vehicle speed display areas 60E and 70E according to the type of shift gear so that the display area V1 can display.

[0098] (Effects)

[0099] Next, the effects of this implementation method will be explained.

[0100] In the display control ECU28, which is the vehicle display control device according to this embodiment, the display ratio of the shift display areas 60D and 70D displaying the shift gear of the vehicle 12 and the vehicle speed display areas 60E and 70E displaying the vehicle speed are changed according to the type of shift gear selected. Therefore, since the more needed information can be displayed larger, the user can visually confirm the information needed in the driving scenario without realizing it.

[0101] Furthermore, in the display control ECU 28, which is the vehicle display control device according to this embodiment, when the gear is in P, N, or R, the display control unit 56 makes the gear shift display area 60D, 70D for P, N, or R larger than the vehicle speed display area 60E, 70E. Therefore, since the gear shift is displayed as greater than the vehicle speed when in P, N, or R, the user can more easily visually confirm the gear shift compared to the vehicle speed. This helps to prevent the user from accidentally pressing the accelerator and brake pedals incorrectly.

[0102] Furthermore, in the display control ECU28, which is the vehicle display control device according to this embodiment, when the gear shift position is D, the display control unit 56 makes the vehicle speed display areas 60E and 70E larger than the gear shift display areas 60D and 70D. Therefore, while the vehicle 12 is in motion, the user can more easily identify the vehicle speed compared to the gear shift position. As a result, excessive acceleration caused by the user can be suppressed.

[0103] Furthermore, in the display control ECU28, which is the vehicle display control device according to this embodiment, the display control unit 56 displays the image by inverting the images displayed in the gear shift display areas 60D and 70E and the vehicle speed display areas 60E and 70E. This allows the user to easily visually confirm that the display has been switched, i.e., the gear has been shifted or the vehicle speed has changed.

[0104] Furthermore, in the display control ECU28, which is the vehicle display control device according to this embodiment, since the display control unit 56 changes the layout including the display ratio according to the driving mode, the optimal layout corresponding to the driving mode can be displayed, and the user can eliminate the complexity of display settings such as switching the instrument display for each driving mode.

[0105] Furthermore, since the vehicle display device 10 involved in this embodiment has a first display unit 24 for displaying gear shift display areas 60D and 70D and vehicle speed display areas 60E and 70E and a display control ECU 28, it can achieve the same function and effect as the display control ECU 28 described above.

[0106] Furthermore, since the vehicle 12 involved in this embodiment is equipped with a vehicle display device 10, it can achieve the same function and effect as the display control ECU 28 described above, just like the vehicle display device 10.

[0107] Furthermore, the same function and effect as the display control ECU28 described above can be obtained in the vehicle display control method and vehicle display control program involved in this embodiment.

[0108] In the above-described embodiments, such as Figure 4 As shown, the vehicle 12 displaying an energy monitor in display area 60F, providing information about the relationship between tires, battery, and energy, is an example of a hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) or a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV). However, vehicle 12 could also be a fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) or a battery electric vehicle (BEV). Furthermore, vehicle 12 could also be a vehicle equipped with an engine (reciprocating engine) as its driving source. In the case of a vehicle equipped with an engine, a display screen showing, for example, energy-saving driving information can be displayed instead of the energy monitor display screen. Furthermore, the display control ECU 28 only needs to perform the display corresponding to the vehicle it is equipped with.

[0109] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the display screen displayed by the display control unit 56 will... Figures 4 to 11 This has been illustrated as an example, but this disclosure is not limited to it and can be adapted to different layouts as needed.

[0110] In addition, there are no particular restrictions on the number and shape of each operating switch and function switch, and they can be changed appropriately.

[0111] In addition, in this embodiment, by Figure 2 The processes executed by the CPU40A reading out the software (program) shown can also be executed by various processors other than the CPU. Examples of processors in this case include FPGAs (Field-Programmable Gate Arrays) and processors with dedicated circuit structures designed for specific processes, such as PLDs (Programmable Logic Devices) whose circuit structure can be modified after manufacturing, and ASICs (Application Specific Integrated Circuits). Furthermore, each process can be executed by one of these various processors, or by a combination of two or more processors of the same or different types (e.g., multiple FPGAs, and a combination of a CPU and an FPGA). More specifically, the hardware structure of these various processors is a circuit that incorporates circuit elements such as semiconductor components.

[0112] Alternatively, the programs described in this embodiment can also be provided as non-transitory computer-readable recording media such as CD-ROM (Compact Disc Read Only Memory), DVD-ROM (Digital Versatile Disc Read Only Memory), and USB (Universal Serial Bus) storage. Alternatively, the programs can be downloaded from an external device via a network.

[0113] The above describes one embodiment of the present disclosure, but the present disclosure is not limited to the above. Various modifications can be made in addition to the above without departing from its spirit.

Claims

1. A display control device for a vehicle, wherein, Includes memory and processor connected to the memory. The processor is configured to adjust the display ratio between a first display area showing the vehicle's shift gear and a second display area showing the vehicle's speed, based on the selected shift gear type, thereby enabling the display to make a display. The processor is configured such that, when the gear shift position is parking, neutral, or reverse, the first display area displaying parking, neutral, or reverse is larger than the second display area.

2. The vehicle display control device according to claim 1, wherein, The processor is configured such that, when the gear shift position is forward, the second display area is larger than the first display area displaying the forward gear.

3. The vehicle display control device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The processor is configured to obtain the driving mode of the vehicle and change the display ratio according to the obtained driving mode.

4. A display device for a vehicle, wherein, have: Vehicle display control device according to any one of claims 1 to 3; and The display shows the first display area and the second display area.

5. A vehicle, wherein, It has the vehicle display device as described in claim 4.

6. A display control method for a vehicle, wherein, The processor adjusts the display ratio between the first display area showing the vehicle's gear position and the second display area showing the vehicle's speed based on the selected gear type, thereby enabling the display to function correctly. When the gear shift position is parking, neutral, or reverse, the first display area for displaying parking, neutral, or reverse is made larger than the second display area.

7. The vehicle display control method according to claim 6, wherein, When the gear is a forward gear, the second display area is made larger than the first display area that displays the forward gear.

8. The vehicle display control method according to claim 6 or 7, wherein, Obtain the driving mode of the vehicle. The display scale is changed according to the obtained driving mode.

9. A non-transitory computer-readable recording medium, wherein, The system contains a vehicle display control program that enables the computer to perform the following processes: The display adjusts the ratio between the first display area showing the vehicle's gear position and the second display area showing the vehicle's speed based on the selected gear type. When the gear shift position is parking, neutral, or reverse, the process makes the first display area for displaying parking, neutral, or reverse larger than the second display area.

10. The non-transitory computer-readable recording medium according to claim 9, wherein, When the gear is a forward gear, the process makes the second display area larger than the first display area that displays the forward gear.

11. The non-transitory computer-readable recording medium according to claim 9 or 10, wherein, The process obtains the vehicle's driving mode and changes the display ratio based on the obtained driving mode.

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