On-vehicle device, vehicle communication system, and algorithm providing method

Abstract

The present invention provides a vehicle-mounted device, which is a vehicle-mounted device installed on a first vehicle, and comprises: a storage unit, which stores an algorithm related to the driving of the first vehicle; an acquisition unit, which acquires driving environment information related to the driving environment of a second vehicle different from the first vehicle; and a judgment unit, which judges the suitability of the driving environment information with respect to the driving of the first vehicle, and judges whether the algorithm that can be used by the first vehicle should be provided to the second vehicle based on the judgment result of the suitability.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an in-vehicle device, a vehicle communication system, and an algorithm providing method. This application claims priority based on Japanese application No. 2020-111586 filed on June 29, 2020, and all the contents described in the Japanese application are cited. Background Art

[0002] Patent document 1 discloses a vehicle-mounted device for predicting the future positions of other vehicles, pedestrians, two-wheeled vehicles and other mobile bodies around the vehicle. The vehicle-mounted device obtains external information during actual driving to identify the driving environment such as the number of pedestrians around the vehicle. The vehicle-mounted device determines an appropriate prediction model based on the prediction model of the mobile body prepared in advance in the vehicle according to the acquired driving environment to predict the behavior of the mobile body.

[0003] Patent document 2 discloses a vehicle-mounted device for detecting detection objects such as people and other vehicles in front of or behind a vehicle by image recognition. The vehicle-mounted device determines the distance to the target object in an input image captured by a camera or the like and the state of light in the input image. The vehicle-mounted device performs image recognition processing on the input image corresponding to the determined distance and light state, and detects the detection object from the input image.

[0004] Patent document 3 discloses an on-board device that combines a dynamically changing algorithm such as machine learning and artificial intelligence with an algorithm that follows traffic rules or a predetermined upper and lower limit value of a control amount. The on-board device performs automatic driving in complex environments and vehicle control that reflects personal preferences based on the dynamically changing algorithm. The on-board device controls the vehicle based on a predetermined algorithm when the dynamically changing algorithm makes an unexpected judgment.

[0005] Patent document 4 discloses a vehicle-mounted device that performs pre-adjustment through communication between the own vehicle and another vehicle so that avoidance control for avoiding an accident between the two vehicles does not conflict. The vehicle-mounted device controls the automatic driving of the other vehicle based on the information related to the driving condition and automatic driving control content of the own vehicle and the information related to the driving condition and automatic driving control content obtained from the other vehicle.

[0006] Prior Art Literature

[0007] Patent Literature

[0008] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-205940

[0009] Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2014-215877

[0010] Patent Document 3: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-24286

[0011] Patent Document 4: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-77652 Summary of the invention

[0012] The vehicle-mounted device disclosed herein is a vehicle-mounted device mounted on a first vehicle, and comprises: a storage unit for storing an algorithm related to the driving of the first vehicle; an acquisition unit for acquiring driving environment information related to the driving environment of a second vehicle different from the first vehicle; and a judgment unit for judging the suitability of the driving environment information with respect to the driving of the first vehicle, and judging whether the algorithm that can be used by the first vehicle should be provided to the second vehicle based on the judgment result of the suitability.

[0013] The vehicle communication system disclosed in the present invention comprises: a first vehicle-mounted device, mounted on a first vehicle; and a second vehicle-mounted device, mounted on a second vehicle different from the first vehicle, the second vehicle-mounted device sending driving environment information related to the driving environment of the second vehicle to the first vehicle-mounted device, the first vehicle-mounted device receiving the driving environment information, and based on the received driving environment information, sending a first algorithm related to the driving of the first vehicle stored in the first vehicle-mounted device and usable by the first vehicle to the second vehicle-mounted device.

[0014] The algorithm providing method disclosed in the present invention is an algorithm providing method installed in a vehicle-mounted device of a first vehicle, comprising: a step of acquiring driving environment information related to the driving environment of a second vehicle different from the first vehicle; and a step of judging the suitability of the driving environment information with respect to the driving of the first vehicle, and judging, based on the result of the suitability judgment, whether a first algorithm that can be used by the first vehicle among the algorithms related to the driving of the first vehicle stored in the vehicle-mounted device should be provided to the second vehicle.

[0015] Another algorithm providing method disclosed in the present invention is an algorithm providing method in a vehicle communication system having a first vehicle-mounted device mounted on a first vehicle and a second vehicle-mounted device mounted on a second vehicle different from the first vehicle, comprising: a step in which the second vehicle-mounted device sends driving environment information related to the driving environment of the second vehicle to the first vehicle-mounted device; and a step in which the first vehicle-mounted device receives the driving environment information and, based on the received driving environment information, sends a first algorithm related to the driving of the first vehicle stored in the first vehicle-mounted device and usable by the first vehicle to the second vehicle-mounted device.

[0016] One aspect of the present disclosure can be implemented as a semiconductor integrated circuit that implements a part or all of the vehicle-mounted device. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] Figure 1 It is a diagram showing the configuration of a vehicle communication system according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] Figure 2 It is a diagram showing the configuration of the in-vehicle network of the vehicle in the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] Figure 3 It is a diagram showing the configuration of the vehicle-mounted device according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] Figure 4 It is a diagram showing an example of an evaluation value table in the vehicle-mounted device according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] Figure 5 This is a flowchart that defines an operation procedure when the onboard device of the own vehicle provides an algorithm to the onboard device of another vehicle in the vehicle communication system according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] Figure 6 This is a flowchart that defines the operation procedure when the vehicle-mounted device according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure performs a compatibility determination process.

[0023] Figure 7 This is a sequence diagram of the algorithm provision process in the vehicle communication system according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] Figure 8 It is a diagram showing the configuration of a vehicle-mounted device according to Modification 1 of the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] Fig. 9 It is a diagram showing the running environment of the own vehicle and other vehicles according to Modification 2 of the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] Fig.10 It is a diagram showing the running environment of the own vehicle and other vehicles according to Modification 3 of the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] Fig.11 It is a diagram showing the running environment of the own vehicle and other vehicles according to Modification 4 of the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] Fig.12 This is a flowchart that defines the operation procedure when the vehicle-mounted device according to Modification 4 of the first embodiment of the present disclosure performs a compatibility determination process.

[0029] Fig.13 It is a diagram showing the configuration of a vehicle communication system according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0030] Fig.14 This is a sequence diagram of the algorithm provision process in the vehicle communication system according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0031] In recent years, in order to realize the autonomous driving of vehicles, the development of in-vehicle devices equipped with various functions has been promoted.

[0032] [Technical Problems to be Solved by the Present Disclosure]

[0033] Vehicles provide a variety of services such as autonomous driving and entertainment. The optimal algorithm for implementing a certain service may differ depending on the driving environment.

[0034] The present disclosure has been made to solve the above-mentioned technical problems, and an object of the present disclosure is to provide an in-vehicle device, a communication system, and a communication method that can more effectively provide services corresponding to the driving environment of the vehicle.

[0035] [Effects of the present disclosure]

[0036] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to more efficiently provide a service that is appropriate for the driving environment of a vehicle.

[0037] [Description of Embodiments of the Invention of the Present Application]

[0038] First, the contents of the embodiments of the present disclosure are listed and described.

[0039] (1) The vehicle-mounted device involved in the embodiment of the present disclosure is a vehicle-mounted device installed on a first vehicle, and comprises: a storage unit for storing an algorithm related to the driving of the first vehicle; an acquisition unit for acquiring driving environment information related to the driving environment of a second vehicle different from the first vehicle; and a judgment unit for judging the suitability of the driving environment information with respect to the driving of the first vehicle, and judging whether the algorithm that can be used by the first vehicle should be provided to the second vehicle based on the judgment result of the suitability.

[0040] In the vehicle-mounted device installed in the vehicle, algorithms for realizing services such as automatic driving are pre-stored. However, the best algorithms for realizing various services sometimes differ depending on the driving environment of the vehicle. Therefore, in the vehicle-mounted device using the pre-stored algorithms, it is difficult to provide the best services in various driving environments. In contrast, by determining whether the algorithm related to the driving of the vehicle should be provided to the second vehicle through the judgment unit in the vehicle-mounted device, the algorithm suitable for the driving environment of the second vehicle can be provided to the second vehicle as needed. Therefore, the provision of services corresponding to the driving environment of the vehicle can be performed more effectively.

[0041] (2) The storage unit may further store first vehicle information indicating whether the first vehicle is a commercial vehicle, and the determination unit may determine compatibility between the running environment information and the first vehicle information.

[0042] Commercial vehicles such as bus routes and taxis often travel frequently in a certain area. If the commercial vehicle has a learning algorithm, the algorithm collects more information about the area and has high performance. Therefore, if the commercial vehicle provides the algorithm to the second vehicle, even if the second vehicle is traveling in the area for the first time, it can receive high-quality service.

[0043] (3) In the first vehicle, the number of the algorithms that can be used varies depending on a driving environment, and the determination unit may determine the number of the algorithms to be provided to the second vehicle based on the driving environment information.

[0044] According to such a configuration, the second vehicle can obtain an optimal number of algorithms according to the driving environment, and can receive provision of a higher quality service according to the driving environment of the vehicle.

[0045] (4) The in-vehicle device may provide the algorithm to the second vehicle based on the result of the determination by the determination unit.

[0046] According to such a configuration, an algorithm suitable for the driving environment of the second vehicle can be provided to the second vehicle as needed. Therefore, it is possible to more efficiently provide a service according to the driving environment of the vehicle.

[0047] (5) The vehicle communication system involved in this embodiment comprises: a first vehicle-mounted device, which is mounted on a first vehicle; and a second vehicle-mounted device, which is mounted on a second vehicle different from the first vehicle, wherein the second vehicle-mounted device sends driving environment information related to the driving environment of the second vehicle to the first vehicle-mounted device, and the first vehicle-mounted device receives the driving environment information and, based on the received driving environment information, sends a first algorithm related to the driving of the first vehicle stored in the first vehicle-mounted device to the second vehicle-mounted device.

[0048] In the vehicle-mounted device installed in the vehicle, algorithms for implementing services such as automatic driving are pre-stored. However, the optimal algorithms for implementing various services sometimes differ depending on the driving environment of the vehicle. Therefore, in the vehicle-mounted device using the pre-stored algorithms, it is difficult to provide the best services in various driving environments. In contrast, by having a first vehicle-mounted device in a first vehicle send an algorithm related to the driving of the vehicle to a second vehicle-mounted device in a second vehicle, an algorithm suitable for the driving environment of the second vehicle can be provided to the second vehicle as needed. Therefore, it is possible to provide services corresponding to the driving environment of the vehicle more effectively.

[0049] (6) The vehicle may also be provided with a third vehicle-mounted device mounted on a third vehicle different from the first vehicle and the second vehicle. The third vehicle-mounted device may also receive the driving environment information, and may also send, based on the received driving environment information, a third algorithm that can be used by the third vehicle among the algorithms related to the driving of the third vehicle stored in the third vehicle-mounted device to the second vehicle-mounted device. The second vehicle-mounted device may also select and use either the first algorithm received from the first vehicle-mounted device or the third algorithm received from the third vehicle-mounted device.

[0050] According to such a configuration, the second vehicle can receive algorithms from a plurality of vehicles and select and use an algorithm more suitable for the driving environment of the second vehicle. Therefore, it can receive higher quality services according to the driving environment of the vehicle.

[0051] (7) The algorithm providing method involved in this embodiment is an algorithm providing method installed in a vehicle-mounted device of a first vehicle, including: a step of acquiring driving environment information related to the driving environment of a second vehicle different from the first vehicle; and a step of judging the suitability of the driving environment information with respect to the driving of the first vehicle, and judging whether a first algorithm that can be used by the first vehicle among the algorithms related to the driving of the first vehicle stored in the vehicle-mounted device should be provided to the second vehicle based on the judgment result of the suitability.

[0052] In the vehicle-mounted device installed in the vehicle, algorithms for implementing services such as automatic driving are pre-stored. However, the optimal algorithms for implementing various services sometimes differ depending on the driving environment of the vehicle. Therefore, in the vehicle-mounted device using the pre-stored algorithms, it is difficult to provide the best services in various driving environments. In contrast, by determining whether the algorithm related to the driving of the vehicle that can be used by the first vehicle should be provided to the configuration of the second vehicle, an algorithm suitable for the driving environment of the second vehicle can be provided to the second vehicle as needed. Therefore, the provision of services corresponding to the driving environment of the vehicle can be performed more effectively.

[0053] (8) The algorithm providing method involved in the present embodiment is an algorithm providing method in a vehicle communication system having a first vehicle-mounted device mounted on a first vehicle and a second vehicle-mounted device mounted on a second vehicle different from the first vehicle, comprising: a step in which the second vehicle-mounted device sends driving environment information related to the driving environment of the second vehicle to the first vehicle-mounted device; and a step in which the first vehicle-mounted device receives the driving environment information and, based on the received driving environment information, sends a first algorithm related to the driving of the first vehicle stored in the first vehicle-mounted device and usable by the first vehicle to the second vehicle-mounted device.

[0054] In the vehicle-mounted device installed in the vehicle, algorithms for implementing services such as automatic driving are pre-stored. However, the optimal algorithms for implementing various services sometimes differ depending on the driving environment of the vehicle. Therefore, in the vehicle-mounted device using the pre-stored algorithms, it is difficult to provide the best services in various driving environments. In contrast, by having a first vehicle-mounted device in a first vehicle send an algorithm related to the driving of the vehicle to a second vehicle-mounted device in a second vehicle, an algorithm suitable for the driving environment of the second vehicle can be provided to the second vehicle as needed. Therefore, it is possible to provide services corresponding to the driving environment of the vehicle more effectively.

[0055] The following is an explanation of the embodiments of the present disclosure using the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that the same or equivalent parts in the drawings are marked with the same reference numerals, and their descriptions are not repeated. In addition, at least a part of the embodiments described below may be arbitrarily combined.

[0056] <First Embodiment>

[0057] [Vehicle Communication System]

[0058] Figure 1 It is a diagram showing the configuration of a vehicle communication system according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0059] Reference Figure 1 The vehicle communication system 100 includes a vehicle-mounted device 12 mounted on a host vehicle (first vehicle) 1 and a vehicle-mounted device 21 mounted on another vehicle (second vehicle) 2. The host vehicle 1 and the other vehicle 2 are, for example, four-wheeled vehicles. The vehicle-mounted device 12 can communicate with the vehicle-mounted device 21 using mobile communication and short-range wireless communication. The vehicle-mounted device 12 forms a vehicle-mounted network with other vehicle-mounted devices in the host vehicle 1.

[0060] [In-vehicle network]

[0061] Figure 2 It is a diagram showing the configuration of the in-vehicle network of the vehicle in the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0062] Reference Figure 2 The vehicle 1 includes a plurality of vehicle-mounted devices (first vehicle-mounted devices) 10 to 14 and a relay device 15 .

[0063] In the in-vehicle network 101 , the in-vehicle devices 10 to 14 are connected to a relay device 15 via an Ethernet (registered trademark) cable.

[0064] The relay device 15 is, for example, a central gateway (CGW). The relay device 15 can communicate with the vehicle-mounted devices 10 to 14 connected thereto. The relay device 15 can relay data between the plurality of vehicle-mounted devices 10 to 14 connected thereto.

[0065] The relay device 15 performs a relay process of Ethernet frames in accordance with the communication standard of Ethernet. Specifically, the relay device 15 relays Ethernet frames exchanged between the vehicle-mounted devices 10 to 14, for example. IP packets are stored in Ethernet frames.

[0066] It should be noted that the in-vehicle network is not limited to the structure of relaying Ethernet frames according to the Ethernet communication standard. For example, it can also be a structure of relaying data according to communication standards such as CAN (Controller Area Network) (registered trademark), FlexRay (registered trademark), MOST (Media Oriented Systems Transport) (registered trademark) and LIN (Local Interconnect Network).

[0067] The vehicle-mounted device 21 in the other vehicle 2 also constitutes a vehicle-mounted network with other vehicle-mounted devices, similarly to the own vehicle 1. The configuration of the vehicle-mounted network of the other vehicle 2 is the same as that of the own vehicle 1, and therefore will not be described in detail.

[0068] Next, the vehicle-mounted devices of each vehicle will be described.

[0069] [Onboard devices of this vehicle]

[0070] Figure 3 It is a diagram showing the configuration of the vehicle-mounted device according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0071] Reference Figure 3The vehicle-mounted device 10 is, for example, a GPS (Global Positioning System) receiver. The vehicle-mounted device 10 obtains the current position of the vehicle 1 based on radio waves from positioning satellites of GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) including GPS, and generates position information representing the acquired current position. The vehicle-mounted device 10 sends the generated position information to the vehicle-mounted device 11. It should be noted that the roadside device of the vehicle-mounted device 10 can also generate position information based on measurement results of cameras and LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging).

[0072] The vehicle-mounted device 11 is, for example, an ECU (Electronic Control Unit) for detecting a driving environment. The vehicle-mounted device 11 determines the driving environment of the vehicle 1 based on the position information received from the vehicle-mounted device 10. The vehicle-mounted device 11 includes a position information acquisition unit 111, a map information storage unit 112, and a driving environment recognition unit 113.

[0073] The position information acquisition unit 111 receives the position information from the vehicle-mounted device 10 , and outputs the position information to the driving environment recognition unit 113 .

[0074] The map information storage unit 112 stores road map information of an area where the host vehicle 1 is assumed to travel. The map information storage unit 112 is, for example, a flash memory.

[0075] When receiving the position information from the position information acquisition unit 111, the driving environment recognition unit 113 acquires the information of the area corresponding to the position information in the road map information stored in the map information storage unit 112. The driving environment recognition unit 113 determines the driving environment of the host vehicle 1 based on the position information and the information of the area, and generates the driving environment information. For example, the driving environment information includes information indicating whether the host vehicle 1 is driving on a highway or on a general road. The driving environment recognition unit 113 sends the generated driving environment information to the vehicle-mounted device 12.

[0076] The vehicle-mounted device 12 is, for example, an ECU for algorithm determination. The vehicle-mounted device 12 includes an algorithm determination unit 121 and a storage unit 122. The storage unit 122 is, for example, a flash memory, and stores a plurality of algorithms. The plurality of algorithms include an algorithm related to the driving of the vehicle 1.

[0077] When receiving the driving environment information, the algorithm determination unit 121 acquires an algorithm corresponding to the driving environment information from a plurality of algorithms stored in the storage unit 122. The algorithm determination unit 121 selects an algorithm that can be used for automatic driving based on the acquired driving environment information and transmits it to the vehicle-mounted device 13.

[0078] The vehicle-mounted device 13 is, for example, an automatic driving ECU and includes an automatic driving processing unit 131 .

[0079] When receiving the algorithm from the algorithm determination unit 121 , the automatic driving processing unit 131 performs automatic driving of the host vehicle 1 based on the algorithm.

[0080] The in-vehicle device 14 is, for example, a TCU (Telematics Communication Unit) and includes a wireless communication unit 141 .

[0081] The wireless communication unit 141 can communicate with the wireless communication unit 201 in the vehicle-mounted device 20 of the other vehicle 2. The wireless communication unit 141 is implemented by a communication circuit such as a communication IC (Integrated Circuit), for example.

[0082] Here, the vehicle-mounted device 12 further includes an acquisition unit 123 and a determination unit 124 .

[0083] [Acquisition Department]

[0084] The acquisition unit 123 acquires other vehicle information including running environment information related to the running environment of the other vehicle 2. More specifically, the acquisition unit 123 receives the other vehicle information from the other vehicle 2 via the wireless communication unit 141 and outputs the received other vehicle information to the determination unit 124.

[0085] [Judgment Department]

[0086] The judgment unit 124 judges the suitability of the other vehicle information and the vehicle 1. In more detail, the judgment unit 124 receives the other vehicle information from the acquisition unit 123 and refers to the evaluation value table stored in the storage unit 122. The vehicle information related to the driving environment of the vehicle 1 is registered in the evaluation value table. It should be noted that the suitability of the other vehicle information and the vehicle 1 includes the suitability of the other vehicle information and the vehicle 1 related to driving.

[0087] Figure 4 It is a diagram showing an example of an evaluation value table in the vehicle-mounted device according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0088] Reference Figure 4The evaluation value table TB1 shows the relationship between the algorithm, the driving environment condition and the evaluation value. Specifically, two algorithms, Algorithm A and Algorithm B, are registered in the evaluation value table TB1. An evaluation value corresponding to the driving environment condition is given to each algorithm in advance.

[0089] For algorithm A, the evaluation value is 100 when the driving environment condition is a highway, and the evaluation value is 60 when the driving environment condition is a general road. For algorithm B, the evaluation value is 80 when the driving environment condition is a highway, and the evaluation value is 90 when the driving environment condition is a general road.

[0090] When the determination unit 124 receives the other vehicle information indicating that the driving environment of the other vehicle 2 is a highway through the acquisition unit 123, it searches for an algorithm whose driving environment condition is a highway by referring to the evaluation value table TB1. Since the algorithm A and the algorithm B whose driving environment condition is a highway are registered in the evaluation value table TB1, the determination unit 124 determines that the other vehicle information is suitable for the host vehicle 1.

[0091] The judgment unit 124 judges whether the algorithm related to vehicle driving that can be used by the own vehicle 1 should be provided to the other vehicle 2 based on the above-mentioned suitability judgment result. In more detail, when there are multiple algorithms suitable for the other vehicle information, the judgment unit 124 compares the evaluation values ​​of each algorithm and selects the algorithm with the largest evaluation value. In this example, when the driving environment condition is a highway, the evaluation value of algorithm A is 100, which is higher than the evaluation value of algorithm B, which is 80. Therefore, the judgment unit 124 selects algorithm A.

[0092] After selecting the algorithm A, the determination unit 124 compares the evaluation value of the algorithm A with a predetermined threshold value Th. The threshold value Th is a value stored in advance in the storage unit 122 and serves as a criterion for determining whether an algorithm should be provided. The threshold value Th is 70, for example.

[0093] The evaluation value of algorithm A is 100, which is greater than the threshold value Th of 70. Therefore, the determination unit 124 determines that algorithm A should be provided to the other vehicle 2 , and transmits algorithm A and the evaluation value of algorithm A to the other vehicle 2 via the acquisition unit 123 and the vehicle-mounted device 14 .

[0094] [Other vehicle-mounted devices]

[0095] Refer again Figure 3 , the other vehicle 2 includes vehicle-mounted devices (second vehicle-mounted devices) 20 to 24.

[0096] The in-vehicle device 20 is, for example, a TCU and includes a wireless communication unit 201 .

[0097] The wireless communication unit 201 can communicate with the wireless communication unit 141 in the vehicle-mounted device 14 of the host vehicle 1. The wireless communication unit 201 is implemented by a communication circuit such as a communication IC. The wireless communication unit 201 receives the algorithm A and the evaluation value of the algorithm A from the host vehicle 1 and transmits them to the vehicle-mounted device 21.

[0098] The vehicle-mounted device 21 is, for example, an ECU for algorithm determination and includes an algorithm acquisition unit 211 and an algorithm determination unit 212 .

[0099] The algorithm acquisition unit 211 receives the algorithm A and the corresponding evaluation value from the host vehicle 1 via the vehicle-mounted device 20 , and outputs the algorithm A and the corresponding evaluation value to the algorithm determination unit 212 .

[0100] The algorithm determination unit 212 receives the algorithm A and the corresponding evaluation value from the algorithm acquisition unit 211, and refers to the currently used algorithm and the corresponding evaluation value stored in the algorithm storage unit (not shown). The algorithm determination unit 212 compares the evaluation value of the algorithm A with the evaluation value of the currently used algorithm, and selects the algorithm with the higher evaluation value. When the evaluation value of the algorithm A is higher than the evaluation value of the currently used algorithm, the algorithm determination unit 212 sends the algorithm A as an algorithm that can be used for automatic driving to the vehicle-mounted device 22.

[0101] The vehicle-mounted device 22 is, for example, an automatic driving ECU and includes an automatic driving processing unit 221 .

[0102] When receiving the algorithm A from the algorithm determination unit 212 , the automatic driving processing unit 221 performs automatic driving of the other vehicle 2 based on the algorithm A again.

[0103] The vehicle-mounted device 23 is, for example, a navigation device. The vehicle-mounted device 23 can communicate with a roadside device (not shown) wirelessly using, for example, ITS (Intelligent Transport System). When another vehicle 2 enters the expressway from a normal road, the vehicle-mounted device 23 receives road information from the roadside device. The vehicle-mounted device 23 sends the received road information to the vehicle-mounted device 24.

[0104] The vehicle-mounted device 24 is, for example, an ECU for detecting a driving environment. The vehicle-mounted device 24 determines the driving environment of the other vehicle 2 based on the road information received from the vehicle-mounted device 23. The vehicle-mounted device 24 includes a road information acquisition unit 241, a map information storage unit 242, and a driving environment recognition unit 243.

[0105] The road information acquisition unit 241 receives road information from the vehicle-mounted device 23 , and outputs the road information to the driving environment recognition unit 243 .

[0106] The map information storage unit 242 stores road map information of an area where the other vehicle 2 is assumed to travel. The map information storage unit 242 is, for example, a flash memory.

[0107] When the driving environment recognition unit 243 receives the road information from the road information acquisition unit 241, it acquires the information of the area corresponding to the road information in the road map information stored in the map information storage unit 242. The driving environment recognition unit 243 determines the driving environment of the other vehicle 2 based on the road information and the information of the area, and generates other vehicle information related to the driving environment of the other vehicle 2. For example, the other vehicle information includes information indicating that the driving environment of the other vehicle 2 is switched from a general road to a highway. The driving environment recognition unit 243 sends the generated other vehicle information to the vehicle-mounted device 20 via the algorithm acquisition unit 211.

[0108] When receiving the other vehicle information, the onboard device 20 includes the other vehicle information in the wireless signal and broadcasts it. The onboard device 14 in the host vehicle 1 receives the other vehicle information broadcasted from the onboard device 20 .

[0109] [Flow of Action]

[0110] Each vehicle-mounted device in the vehicle communication system involved in the first embodiment of the present disclosure is equipped with a computer including a memory, and a CPU or other computing processing unit in the computer reads and executes a program including a part or all of each step of the following flowchart and timing diagram from the memory. The programs of the plurality of vehicle-mounted devices can be installed from the outside. The programs of the plurality of vehicle-mounted devices are circulated in a state of being stored in a recording medium.

[0111] Figure 5 This is a flowchart that defines an operation procedure when the onboard device of the own vehicle provides an algorithm to the onboard device of another vehicle in the vehicle communication system according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0112] Reference Figure 5 First, the vehicle-mounted device 12 waits for receiving other vehicle information ("No" in step S101).

[0113] Next, when receiving the other vehicle information from the other vehicle 2 (“Yes” in step S101 ), the onboard device 12 determines the compatibility of the other vehicle information with the host vehicle 1 (step S102 ).

[0114] Next, the vehicle-mounted device 12 performs a judgment process to judge whether the algorithm related to vehicle driving that can be used by the vehicle 1 should be provided to the other vehicle 2 based on the judgment result. When the vehicle-mounted device 12 judges that the algorithm should not be provided to the other vehicle 2 ("No" in step S103), the algorithm is not sent to the other vehicle 2, and the other vehicle information is waited again. On the other hand, when the vehicle-mounted device 12 judges that the algorithm should be provided to the other vehicle 2 ("Yes" in step S103), the algorithm is sent to the other vehicle 2 (step S104).

[0115] Figure 6 This is a flowchart that defines the operation procedure when the vehicle-mounted device according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure performs a compatibility determination process. Figure 6 Shows Figure 5 The details of step S102 are shown.

[0116] Reference Figure 6 First, when receiving other vehicle information, the vehicle-mounted device 12 refers to the evaluation value table TB1 (step S1021).

[0117] Next, the vehicle-mounted device 12 searches the evaluation value table TB1 for an algorithm suitable for the driving environment of the other vehicle 2. If the vehicle 1 does not have an algorithm suitable for the driving environment of the other vehicle 2 in the evaluation value table TB1 ("No" in step S1022), it is determined that no algorithm is provided (step S1027). On the other hand, if the vehicle-mounted device 12 has an algorithm suitable for the driving environment of the other vehicle 2 in the evaluation value table TB1 ("Yes" in step S1022), the algorithm with the largest evaluation value among the corresponding algorithms is selected (step S1023).

[0118] Next, the vehicle-mounted device 12 compares the evaluation value of the selected algorithm with the threshold value Th (step S1024 ).

[0119] Next, when the evaluation value of the algorithm is less than the threshold value Th ("No" in step S1025), the vehicle-mounted device 12 determines not to provide the algorithm (step S1027). On the other hand, when the evaluation value of the algorithm is greater than the threshold value Th ("Yes" in step S1025), the vehicle-mounted device 12 determines that the algorithm should be provided to other vehicles 2 (step S1026).

[0120] Figure 7 This is a sequence diagram of the algorithm provision process in the vehicle communication system according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0121] Reference Figure 7,First, the other vehicle 2 is in a state of automatic driving using a certain algorithm (step S110), and when the driving environment changes, the other vehicle information is ,broadcasted (step S111).

[0122] Next, when receiving the other vehicle information from the other vehicle 2 , the host vehicle 1 determines the compatibility of the other vehicle information with the host vehicle 1 (step S112 ).

[0123] Next, when the other vehicle information matches the own vehicle 1 , the own vehicle 1 transmits the algorithm that can be used by the own vehicle 1 and the evaluation value of the algorithm to the other vehicle 2 (step S113 ).

[0124] Next, the other vehicle 2 determines whether the algorithm received from the host vehicle 1 can be used (step S114 ).

[0125] Next, when determining to use the received algorithm, the other vehicle 2 switches from the currently used algorithm to the received algorithm (step S115 ).

[0126] However, in order to carry out the automatic driving of a vehicle, an algorithm that manages the recognition, judgment and operation during driving is required. Since vehicles travel in various environments such as ordinary roads and highways, algorithms that can perform well in various driving environments are desired.

[0127] However, it is difficult to build high-performance algorithms for various driving environments. For example, imagine that a vehicle is driving on a highway and a certain algorithm related to the vehicle's autonomous driving is built. This algorithm is suitable for the vehicle's autonomous driving on the highway. On the other hand, this algorithm cannot be said to be suitable for the vehicle's autonomous driving on ordinary roads with pedestrians, traffic lights, and intersections, because the driving environment is very different from that on highways.

[0128] Therefore, in a vehicle that has been prepared with an algorithm constructed based on a certain driving environment, when performing object detection and path planning for realizing autonomous driving, the driving environment in which autonomous driving can be performed is limited, and it is difficult to expand the operating design area in autonomous driving.

[0129] In contrast, in the vehicle-mounted device, vehicle communication system, and algorithm providing method according to the first embodiment, the algorithm of the host vehicle 1 can be provided to the other vehicle 2. Therefore, even if the other vehicle 2 does not have an algorithm that is optimal for a certain driving environment, the other vehicle 2 can receive and use the algorithm that is optimal for the driving environment from the host vehicle 1. Therefore, it is possible to more efficiently provide services that are appropriate to the driving environment of the vehicle.

[0130] (Variant 1)

[0131] The communication between the own vehicle 1 and the other vehicles 2 may also be performed via a server.

[0132] Figure 8 It is a diagram showing the configuration of a vehicle-mounted device according to Modification 1 of the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0133] Reference Figure 8 The vehicle communication system 100 further includes a server 40 . The server 40 is, for example, an OTA (Over the Air) server. The server 40 includes a communication processing unit 401 .

[0134] The communication processing unit 401 can communicate with the wireless communication unit 141 of the host vehicle 1 and the wireless communication unit 201 of the other vehicle 2 via a wireless base station (not shown) or the like. Specifically, when the communication processing unit 401 receives other vehicle information from the other vehicle 2, it transmits the other vehicle information to the host vehicle 1. In addition, when the communication processing unit 401 receives an algorithm and its evaluation value from the host vehicle 1, it transmits the algorithm and its evaluation value to the other vehicle 2.

[0135] (Variant 2)

[0136] In the above description, the case where the determination unit 124 in the host vehicle 1 uses the driving environment of the host vehicle 1 and other vehicles 2 as a basis for determining the compatibility of other vehicle information with the host vehicle 1 is described. However, the basis for determining the compatibility of other vehicle information with the host vehicle 1 is not limited to this. The determination unit 124 may also determine the compatibility of other vehicle information with the host vehicle 1 based on the category of the host vehicle 1.

[0137] Fig. 9 It is a diagram showing the running environment of the own vehicle and other vehicles according to Modification 2 of the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0138] Reference Fig. 9 , the vehicle 1 is a route bus as a type of commercial vehicle. Route A shown by a dotted arrow in the figure is the operating route of the vehicle 1. Therefore, the vehicle 1 maintains an algorithm suitable for traveling on route A. On the other hand, route B shown by a solid arrow in the figure is a route other than the operating route of the vehicle 1. Therefore, the vehicle 1 does not maintain an algorithm suitable for traveling on route B.

[0139] The other vehicle 2 uses a certain algorithm to drive in an autonomous manner and is scheduled to pass through route A. In this case, in order to drive on route A, the algorithm of the own vehicle 1 that frequently drives on route A can perform the best autonomous driving compared to the algorithm currently used by the other vehicle 2. Therefore, the other vehicle 2 receives the algorithm from the own vehicle 1. On the other hand, when the other vehicle 2 is scheduled to pass through route B, the algorithm is not received from the own vehicle 1. Figure 3 Such a vehicle communication system will be described.

[0140] In Modification 2, the storage unit 122 in the host vehicle 1 stores host vehicle information indicating whether the host vehicle 1 is a commercial vehicle. The determination unit 124 determines the compatibility of other vehicle information with the host vehicle information.

[0141] More specifically, the determination unit 124 receives other vehicle information from the acquisition unit 123 and refers to the own vehicle information stored in the storage unit 122. The own vehicle information includes information that the own vehicle 1 is a route bus, which is a type of commercial vehicle, and the operating route of the own vehicle 1.

[0142] When the other vehicle information received from the other vehicle 2 indicates that the other vehicle 2 is scheduled to travel on the running route of the own vehicle 1, the judgment unit 124 judges that the other vehicle information is suitable for the own vehicle 1. On the other hand, when the other vehicle information received from the other vehicle 2 does not indicate that the other vehicle 2 is scheduled to travel on the running route of the own vehicle 1, the judgment unit 124 judges that the other vehicle information is not suitable for the own vehicle 1.

[0143] When the judgment unit 124 obtains the judgment result that the other vehicle information is suitable for the own vehicle 1, it determines that the algorithm related to the running route of the own vehicle 1 should be provided to the other vehicle 2, and sends the algorithm to the other vehicle 2 via the acquisition unit 123 and the vehicle-mounted device 14. That is, the vehicle-mounted device 14 sends the algorithm that can be used by the own vehicle 1 to the vehicle-mounted device installed in the other vehicle 2 based on the judgment result of the judgment unit 124. On the other hand, when the judgment unit 124 obtains the judgment result that the other vehicle information is not suitable for the own vehicle 1, it determines that the algorithm related to the running route of the own vehicle 1 should not be provided to the other vehicle 2, and does not send the algorithm to the other vehicle 2.

[0144] (Variant 3)

[0145] In the above-mentioned modification 2, the host vehicle 1 may be a taxi which is a type of commercial vehicle.

[0146] Fig.10 It is a diagram showing the running environment of the own vehicle and other vehicles according to Modification 3 of the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0147] Reference Fig.10 , the vehicle 1 frequently travels in a certain area X during the day. Therefore, the vehicle 1 maintains an algorithm suitable for traveling in area X during the day.

[0148] The other vehicle 2 uses a certain algorithm to drive in an autonomous manner during the day and is scheduled to pass through area X. In this case, in order to drive in area X, the algorithm of the own vehicle 1 that frequently drives in area X can perform the best autonomous driving compared to the algorithm currently used by the other vehicle 2. Therefore, the other vehicle 2 receives the algorithm from the own vehicle 1. On the other hand, when the other vehicle 2 is scheduled to pass through area X at night, the algorithm is not received from the own vehicle 1. Figure 3 Such a vehicle communication system will be described.

[0149] In Modification 3, the storage unit 122 in the host vehicle 1 stores host vehicle information indicating whether the host vehicle 1 is a commercial vehicle. The determination unit 124 determines the compatibility of other vehicle information with the host vehicle information.

[0150] More specifically, the determination unit 124 receives other vehicle information from the acquisition unit 123 and refers to the own vehicle information stored in the storage unit 122. The own vehicle information includes information that the own vehicle 1 is a taxi, which is a type of commercial vehicle, and information that the driving environment is area X during the day.

[0151] When the other vehicle information received from the other vehicle 2 indicates that the other vehicle 2 is scheduled to travel in the area X during the day, the determination unit 124 determines that the other vehicle information is suitable for the host vehicle 1. When the other vehicle information received from the other vehicle 2 does not indicate that the other vehicle 2 is scheduled to travel in the area X during the day, the determination unit 124 determines that the other vehicle information is not suitable for the host vehicle 1.

[0152] When the judgment unit 124 obtains the judgment result that the other vehicle information is suitable for the own vehicle 1, it determines that the algorithm related to the area X of the own vehicle 1 should be provided to the other vehicle 2, and sends the algorithm to the other vehicle 2 via the acquisition unit 123 and the vehicle-mounted device 14. When the judgment unit 124 obtains the judgment result that the other vehicle information is not suitable for the own vehicle 1, it determines that the algorithm related to the area X of the own vehicle 1 should not be provided to the other vehicle 2, and does not send the algorithm to the other vehicle 2.

[0153] (Variant 4)

[0154] In the above description, the case where the host vehicle 1 provides only the algorithm A to the other vehicle 2 is described. However, the host vehicle 1 may provide a plurality of algorithms to the other vehicle 2.

[0155] Fig.11 It is a diagram showing the running environment of the own vehicle and other vehicles according to Modification 4 of the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0156] Reference Fig.11In the fourth modification, the number of algorithms that can be used in the vehicle 1 varies depending on the driving environment.

[0157] For example, on a highway HW, since the driving environment is simple, it is easy to collect information for learning the algorithm. Therefore, the host vehicle 1 drives on the highway HW using an end-to-end learning algorithm composed of a certain algorithm.

[0158] On the other hand, on the general road R, there is much information that needs to be processed, such as pedestrians, traffic lights, and intersections, and the driving environment is complex. Therefore, the host vehicle 1 drives on the general road R using a modular algorithm composed of a plurality of algorithms.

[0159] On the highway HW and the general road R, when the host vehicle 1 receives other vehicle information from the other vehicle 2, the determination unit 124 in the vehicle-mounted device 12 of the host vehicle 1 determines the number of algorithms to be provided to the other vehicle 2 based on the other vehicle information. This determination is performed during the determination process of the suitability of the other vehicle information and the host vehicle 1 ( Figure 5 In step S102).

[0160] Fig.12 This is a flowchart that defines the operation procedure when the vehicle-mounted device according to Modification 4 of the first embodiment of the present disclosure performs a compatibility determination process. Fig.12 Shows Figure 5 The details of step S102 are shown.

[0161] Reference Fig.12 First, when receiving other vehicle information, the vehicle-mounted device 12 refers to the evaluation value table TB1 (step S120).

[0162] Next, the vehicle-mounted device 12 searches the evaluation value table TB1 for an algorithm suitable for the driving environment of the other vehicle 2. If the vehicle 1 does not have an algorithm suitable for the driving environment of the other vehicle 2 in the evaluation value table TB1 ("No" in step S121), it is determined that no algorithm is provided (step S125). On the other hand, if the vehicle-mounted device 12 has an algorithm suitable for the driving environment of the other vehicle 2 in the evaluation value table TB1 ("Yes" in step S121), all corresponding algorithms are selected (step S122).

[0163] More specifically, the vehicle-mounted device 12 selects only one end-to-end learning algorithm when the driving environment of the other vehicle 2 is a highway. On the other hand, the vehicle-mounted device 12 selects multiple modular algorithms when the driving environment of the other vehicle 2 is a general road.

[0164] Next, the vehicle-mounted device 12 compares the evaluation value of the selected algorithm with the threshold value Th. When a plurality of algorithms are selected, the vehicle-mounted device 12 compares the evaluation values ​​of all algorithms with the threshold value Th (step S123).

[0165] Next, when the evaluation values ​​of all the selected algorithms are less than the threshold value Th ("No" in step S124), the vehicle-mounted device 12 determines not to provide the algorithm (step S125). On the other hand, when the evaluation values ​​of some or all of the selected algorithms are greater than the threshold value Th ("Yes" in step S124), the vehicle-mounted device 12 determines that one or more algorithms greater than the threshold value Th should be provided to other vehicles 2 (step S126).

[0166] Next, other embodiments of the present disclosure will be described using the drawings. It should be noted that the same or corresponding parts in the drawings are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their description will not be repeated.

[0167] <Second Embodiment>

[0168] The vehicle communication system according to the second embodiment is different from the first embodiment in that the other vehicle 2 receives an algorithm from a plurality of vehicles.

[0169] Fig.13 It is a diagram showing the configuration of a vehicle communication system according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0170] Reference Fig.13 The vehicle communication system 200 further includes an on-board device (third on-board device) 30 installed in another vehicle (third vehicle) 3 different from the vehicle 1 and the other vehicle 2. In the vehicle communication system 200, the configuration of the on-board network including the on-board devices 12 and 21 in the vehicle 1 and the other vehicle 2 is the same as that in the first embodiment. In addition, in the other vehicle 3, the on-board device 30 and other on-board devices constitute an on-board network, and its configuration is the same as that in the first embodiment. Figure 3 That is, the vehicle-mounted device 30 can perform wireless communication with the vehicle-mounted device 21 using mobile communication, short-distance wireless communication, or the like.

[0171] Fig.14 This is a sequence diagram of the algorithm provision process in the vehicle communication system according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0172] Reference Fig.14 ,First, the other vehicle 2 is in a state of automatic driving using a certain algorithm (step S130), and when the driving environment changes, the other vehicle information is broadcasted (step S131).

[0173] Next, when receiving the other vehicle information from the other vehicle 2 , the host vehicle 1 determines the compatibility of the other vehicle information with the host vehicle 1 (step S132 ).

[0174] Next, when the other vehicle information matches the own vehicle 1 , the own vehicle 1 transmits the algorithm that can be used by the own vehicle 1 and the evaluation value of the algorithm to the other vehicle 2 (step S133 ).

[0175] In addition, when receiving the other vehicle information from the other vehicle 2 (step S134), the other vehicle 3 determines the compatibility of the other vehicle information with the other vehicle 3 (step S135).

[0176] Next, when the other vehicle information matches the other vehicle 3 , the other vehicle 3 transmits the algorithm that can be used by the other vehicle 3 and the evaluation value of the algorithm to the other vehicle 2 (step S136 ).

[0177] Next, the other vehicle 2 performs a process of selecting one of the algorithms received from the own vehicle 1 and the algorithms received from the other vehicle 3. Specifically, the algorithm determination unit 212 of the vehicle-mounted device 21 in the other vehicle 2 selects the algorithm of the vehicle having a higher average value of evaluation values ​​or the like among one or more algorithms received from the own vehicle 1 and one or more algorithms received from the other vehicle 3 (step S137).

[0178] Next, the other vehicle 2 determines whether the selected algorithm can be used (step S138 ).

[0179] Next, when determining that the selected algorithm can be used, the other vehicle 2 switches from the currently used algorithm to the selected algorithm (step S139 ).

[0180] The above embodiments should be considered to be illustrative in all aspects and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is indicated by the claims rather than the above description, and is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope equivalent to the claims.

[0181] In the above description, the algorithm is not particularly limited, and as an example, it is a learning model constructed by machine learning.

[0182] In each of the above-mentioned embodiments, the case where the algorithm used by the other vehicle 2 is switched to another algorithm is described. However, the vehicle-mounted device, vehicle communication system, and algorithm providing method involved in each embodiment may also be a configuration in which the algorithm used by the other vehicle 2 is updated to an algorithm of a different version maintained by the own vehicle 1 or another vehicle 3.

[0183] In the above-mentioned embodiments, the algorithm provided by the host vehicle 1 is described as an algorithm for controlling the automatic driving. However, the algorithm provided by the host vehicle 1 may be an algorithm related to various services installed in the vehicle, such as entertainment.

[0184] The above description includes the following additional features.

[0185] [Note 1]

[0186] A vehicle communication system comprising:

[0187] A first vehicle-mounted device, mounted on a first vehicle; and

[0188] A second vehicle-mounted device is mounted on a second vehicle.

[0189] The first vehicle-mounted device sends first vehicle information related to the driving environment of the first vehicle to the second vehicle-mounted device,

[0190] The second vehicle-mounted device receives the first vehicle information, determines the suitability of the first vehicle information and the first vehicle information related to the second vehicle, and based on the determination result, sends an algorithm related to vehicle driving that can be used by the second vehicle to the first vehicle-mounted device.

[0191] Description of Reference Numerals

[0192] 100, 200: vehicle communication system; 101: vehicle network; 1: own vehicle (first vehicle); 10: vehicle-mounted device (GPS receiver); 11: vehicle-mounted device (ECU for driving environment detection); 111: position information acquisition unit; 112: map information storage unit; 113: driving environment recognition unit; 12: vehicle-mounted device (ECU for algorithm judgment); 121: algorithm judgment unit; 122: storage unit; 123: acquisition unit; 124: judgment unit; 13: vehicle-mounted device (autopilot ECU); 131: autopilot processing unit; 14: vehicle-mounted device (TCU); 141: wireless communication unit; 15: relay device; 2: other Another vehicle (second vehicle); 20: On-board device (TCU); 201: Wireless communication unit; 21: On-board device (ECU for algorithm judgment); 211: Algorithm acquisition unit; 212: Algorithm judgment unit; 22: On-board device (Autopilot ECU); 221: Autopilot processing unit; 23: On-board device (Navigation device); 24: On-board device (ECU for driving environment detection); 241: Road information acquisition unit; 242: Map information storage unit; 243: Driving environment recognition unit; 3: Another vehicle (third vehicle); 30: On-board device; 40: Server; 401: Communication processing unit; R: General road; HW: Expressway.

Claims

1. A vehicle-mounted device, which is a vehicle-mounted device mounted on a first vehicle, comprising: a storage unit storing an algorithm related to the driving of the first vehicle and first driving environment information related to the driving environment of the first vehicle in a relationship with each other; an acquisition unit, which acquires second driving environment information related to a driving environment of a second vehicle different from the first vehicle; and A judgment unit judges the suitability of the second driving environment information with respect to driving of the first vehicle according to whether the first driving environment information consistent with the second driving environment information is stored in the storage unit, and judges whether the algorithm usable by the first vehicle should be provided to the second vehicle according to the result of the suitability judgment.

2. The vehicle-mounted device according to claim 1, wherein: The storage unit further stores first vehicle information indicating whether the first vehicle is a commercial vehicle. The determination unit determines compatibility between the second driving environment information and the first vehicle information.

3. The vehicle-mounted device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: In the first vehicle, the number of the algorithms that can be used varies depending on the driving environment. The determination unit determines the number of the algorithms to be provided to the second vehicle based on the second driving environment information.

4. The vehicle-mounted device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The in-vehicle device provides the algorithm to the second vehicle based on the result of the determination by the determination unit.

5. A vehicle communication system comprising: A first vehicle-mounted device, mounted on a first vehicle; and a second vehicle-mounted device mounted on a second vehicle different from the first vehicle; storing an algorithm related to the driving of the first vehicle, first driving environment information related to the driving environment of the first vehicle, and an evaluation value of the first driving environment information in a relationship with each other in the first vehicle-mounted device; The second vehicle-mounted device sends second driving environment information related to the driving environment of the second vehicle to the first vehicle-mounted device, The first vehicle-mounted device receives the second driving environment information, and when storing the first driving environment information that is consistent with the second driving environment information, sends the first algorithm having the largest evaluation value corresponding to the first driving environment information that is consistent with the second driving environment information among the algorithms related to the driving of the first vehicle stored in the first vehicle-mounted device to the second vehicle-mounted device.

6. The vehicle communication system according to claim 5, wherein: The vehicle communication system further comprises: a third vehicle-mounted device mounted on a third vehicle different from the first vehicle and the second vehicle; storing an algorithm related to the driving of the third vehicle, third driving environment information related to the driving environment of the third vehicle, and an evaluation value of the third driving environment information in a relationship with each other in the third vehicle-mounted device; the third vehicle-mounted device receiving the second driving environment information, and, if the third driving environment information consistent with the second driving environment information is stored, sending a third algorithm having a maximum evaluation value corresponding to the third driving environment information consistent with the second driving environment information among the algorithms related to the driving of the third vehicle stored in the third vehicle-mounted device to the second vehicle-mounted device, The second vehicle-mounted device selects and uses any one of the first algorithm received from the first vehicle-mounted device and the third algorithm received from the third vehicle-mounted device.

7. An algorithm providing method is an algorithm providing method in a vehicle-mounted device of a first vehicle, comprising: a step of storing an algorithm related to the driving of the first vehicle and first driving environment information related to the driving environment of the first vehicle in a relational manner, a step of acquiring second driving environment information related to a driving environment of a second vehicle different from the first vehicle; as well as A step of judging the suitability of the second driving environment information to the first vehicle based on whether the first driving environment information consistent with the second driving environment information is stored, and judging whether a first algorithm usable by the first vehicle among the algorithms related to the driving of the first vehicle stored in the vehicle-mounted device should be provided to the second vehicle based on the result of the suitability judgment.

8. An algorithm providing method, in a vehicle communication system including a first vehicle-mounted device mounted on a first vehicle and a second vehicle-mounted device mounted on a second vehicle different from the first vehicle, wherein an algorithm related to the driving of the first vehicle, first driving environment information related to the driving environment of the first vehicle, and an evaluation value of the first driving environment information are stored in the first vehicle-mounted device in a relationship, the algorithm providing method comprising: The second vehicle-mounted device sends second driving environment information related to the driving environment of the second vehicle to the first vehicle-mounted device; as well as The first vehicle-mounted device receives the second driving environment information, and when the first driving environment information consistent with the second driving environment information is stored, sends the algorithm with the largest evaluation value corresponding to the first driving environment information consistent with the second driving environment information among the algorithms related to the driving of the first vehicle stored in the first vehicle-mounted device to the second vehicle-mounted device.

Images