Information processing apparatus, vehicle system, and information processing method

Abstract

The present application relates to an information processing device, a vehicle system, and an information processing method. The convenience of a user who drives a vehicle is improved. An information processing device acquires, from a first vehicle, vehicle data that is data related to travel of the first vehicle, and identifies, on the basis of the vehicle data, a first location that is a location at which, while the first vehicle is traveling, an action condition of a predetermined driving assistance function that the first vehicle has is satisfied.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to driver assistance functions for vehicles. Background Technology

[0002] In recent years, vehicles with driver assistance functions such as cruise control and semi-autonomous driving have become increasingly common. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses an invention related to an onboard device that suggests to the driver the use of driver assistance functions.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2021-094970 Summary of the Invention

[0006] The problem the invention aims to solve

[0007] The purpose of this disclosure is to improve the convenience for users of driving vehicles.

[0008] Solution for solving the problem

[0009] One embodiment of this disclosure provides an information processing device, which includes a control unit that performs the following actions: acquiring vehicle data related to the driving of a first vehicle from a first vehicle; and identifying a first location based on the vehicle data, the first location being a location where the first vehicle meets the operating conditions of a predetermined driving assistance function of the first vehicle while driving.

[0010] One embodiment of this disclosure provides a vehicle system including an on-board device and a server device mounted on a first vehicle. The on-board device has a first control unit that sends vehicle data, which is related to the driving of the first vehicle, to the server device. The server device has a second control unit that identifies a first location based on the vehicle data obtained from the on-board device. The first location is a location where the first vehicle meets the operating conditions of a predetermined driving assistance function while driving.

[0011] One embodiment of this disclosure is an information processing method, which includes the following steps: acquiring vehicle data related to the driving of a first vehicle from a first vehicle; and identifying a first location based on the vehicle data, wherein the first location is a location where the first vehicle meets the action conditions of a predetermined driving assistance function of the first vehicle during driving.

[0012] Alternatively, as other technical solutions, examples include programs for causing a computer to perform the above methods or computer-readable storage media that non-volatilely stores the program.

[0013] The effects of the invention

[0014] According to this disclosure, the convenience for users driving vehicles can be improved. Attached Figure Description

[0015] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the vehicle system according to the first embodiment.

[0016] Figure 2 This is a diagram illustrating the constituent elements of the vehicle according to the first embodiment.

[0017] Figure 3 This is a diagram illustrating the operating conditions of driver assistance functions.

[0018] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating vehicle data sent from the vehicle.

[0019] Figure 5 This is a system architecture diagram of the server device.

[0020] Figure 6 This is an example of a map used to teach about the first location.

[0021] Figure 7 This is another example of a map used to teach about the first location.

[0022] Figure 8 This is a system architecture diagram of the user terminal.

[0023] Figure 9 This is a flowchart of the processes performed by the on-board device.

[0024] Figure 10 It is a sequence diagram of the processing between the server device and the user terminal.

[0025] Figure 11 This is an example of a screen for selecting driver assistance features.

[0026] Figure 12 This is an example of a screen that outputs a path map.

[0027] Figure 13 This is a flowchart of the process performed by the vehicle-mounted device in the second embodiment.

[0028] Figure 14 This is an example of vehicle data in the second implementation.

[0029] Figure 15 This is a flowchart of the processing performed by the vehicle-mounted device in the third embodiment.

[0030] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0031] 10…Vehicle; 100…On-board unit; 120…ECU; 140…Sensor group; 200…Server unit; 300…User terminal; 101, 121, 201, 301…Control unit; 102, 122, 202, 302…Storage unit; 103, 123, 203, 303…Communication unit; 104, 304…Input / output unit; 105…Wireless communication unit; 106…Location information acquisition unit. Detailed Implementation

[0032] In recent years, vehicles with driver assistance features have become increasingly common. Examples of driver assistance features include adaptive cruise control, steering assist, power distribution based on road conditions, and remote parking.

[0033] These driver assistance functions can be used in many situations, provided that the vehicle meets predetermined conditions. For example, in order to initiate semi-autonomous driving on a highway, several conditions need to be met, such as (1) driving on a predetermined highway, (2) the vehicle driving within a predetermined speed range, and (3) not changing lanes. In this disclosure, such conditions are referred to as the (driver assistance function) operating conditions.

[0034] There are technologies that notify the driver when the vehicle meets the conditions for using driver assistance functions. However, since driver assistance functions are diverse, simply using the fulfillment of conditions as a trigger for notification would result in frequent notifications, potentially annoying the driver. On the other hand, suppressing the frequency of notifications could lead to the problem that, although the driver can utilize the driver assistance function, they may not be able to recognize it.

[0035] The information processing apparatus disclosed herein is used to solve this problem.

[0036] The information processing apparatus of this disclosure is characterized in that it has a control unit that performs the following actions: acquiring vehicle data related to the driving of the first vehicle from a first vehicle; and identifying a first location based on the vehicle data, the first location being a location where the first vehicle meets the operating conditions of a predetermined driving assistance function of the first vehicle while driving.

[0037] The user is typically the driver of the first vehicle.

[0038] The predetermined driving assistance function refers to at least one of more than one driving assistance functions possessed by the first vehicle. The control unit acquires data (vehicle data) related to the driving of the first vehicle. The vehicle data is used to identify the location (referred to as the first location) where the operating conditions of the predetermined driving assistance function possessed by the first vehicle are met.

[0039] When the information processing device is a server device, the control unit can also receive vehicle data sent from the first vehicle. Alternatively, when the information processing device is mounted on the first vehicle, the control unit can also receive such data from the vehicle's platform.

[0040] Furthermore, based on vehicle data, the control unit identifies locations where the predetermined driving assistance functions' operating conditions are met (in other words, locations where the predetermined driving assistance functions can be utilized). The locations obtained as a result of this identification can also be shown to the user. According to this structure, the user can be informed afterward of the situation where the predetermined driving assistance functions can be utilized.

[0041] The control unit can also generate a map that maps a first location to the past travel path of a first vehicle. Based on this structure, it is possible to visually convey to the user which locations offer access to driver assistance features.

[0042] It should be noted that the control unit may not necessarily teach all the first locations to the user. For example, if the user receives a notification that the conditions for the driving assistance function have been met while driving, or if there is a history of using the driving assistance function at the corresponding location, then that location may be excluded from the teaching scope.

[0043] Hereinafter, specific embodiments of the present disclosure will be described based on the accompanying drawings. Unless otherwise specified, the hardware structures, module structures, functional structures, etc., described in each embodiment are not intended to limit the scope of protection of the disclosure to these.

[0044] (First Implementation)

[0045] Reference Figure 1 An overview of the vehicle system according to the first embodiment will be described. The vehicle system of this embodiment is configured to include a vehicle 10, a server device 200, and a user terminal 300. The number of vehicles 10 and user terminals 300 included in the vehicle system may also be multiple.

[0046] Vehicle 10 is a vehicle capable of providing multiple driving assistance functions. Each of the multiple driving assistance functions can be utilized under predetermined conditions.

[0047] While the vehicle 10 is in motion, it determines whether the operating conditions for each of the multiple driver assistance functions are met. Additionally, the vehicle 10 generates data to notify the server device 200 of the combination of driver assistance functions whose operating conditions are met and their locations.

[0048] In addition, the server device 200 generates a map based on the data received from the vehicle 10 to teach "which driving assistance function can be used at which location" and sends it to the user terminal 300.

[0049] Therefore, the user of vehicle 10 can identify afterwards that there are available driver assistance functions.

[0050] The components that make up the system are explained.

[0051] Vehicle 10 is a connected car with communication capabilities with external networks. Vehicle 10 is configured to include an on-board unit 100 and an electronic control unit (ECU) 120. It should be noted that... Figure 1 The example shown is a single ECU, but the vehicle 10 may also include multiple ECUs.

[0052] Figure 2 This diagram illustrates the constituent elements of the vehicle 10 according to this embodiment. The vehicle 10 of this embodiment is configured to include an on-board unit 100, a plurality of ECUs 120, and a sensor group 140.

[0053] It should be noted that this example illustrates a single ECU, but vehicle 10 may also include multiple ECUs that govern different vehicle components. Examples of multiple ECUs include, for instance, a body ECU, an engine ECU, a hybrid powertrain ECU, and a powertrain ECU. Furthermore, ECUs can also be divided into functional units. For example, they can be distinguished as ECUs that perform safety functions, ECUs that perform automatic parking functions, and ECUs that perform remote control functions.

[0054] First, the vehicle-mounted device 100 will be explained.

[0055] The in-vehicle device 100 is a device that provides information to the occupants of a vehicle (e.g., a car navigation system). The in-vehicle device 100 is also referred to as a car navigation system, infotainment system, or car audio system. Through the in-vehicle device 100, navigation and entertainment can be provided to the occupants of the vehicle.

[0056] The vehicle-mounted device 100 has the function of wirelessly communicating with an external network. The vehicle-mounted device 100 may also have the function of downloading traffic information, road map data, music, and dynamic images by communicating with the external network of the vehicle 10. Furthermore, the vehicle-mounted device 100 may also be a device capable of cooperating with smartphones or similar devices.

[0057] The vehicle-mounted device 100 can be constructed from a general-purpose computer. That is, the vehicle-mounted device 100 can be configured as a computer with a processor such as a CPU and GPU, main storage devices such as RAM and ROM, and auxiliary storage devices such as EPROM, hard disk drives, and removable media. The operating system (OS), various programs, and various tables are stored in the auxiliary storage devices. By executing the programs stored therein, various functions that conform to the predetermined purpose can be achieved, as described later. However, some or all of the functions can also be implemented using hardware circuits such as ASICs and FPGAs.

[0058] The vehicle-mounted device 100 is configured to include a control unit 101, a storage unit 102, a communication unit 103, an input / output unit 104, a wireless communication unit 105, and a location information acquisition unit 106.

[0059] The control unit 101 is a computing unit that executes predetermined programs to realize various functions of the vehicle-mounted device 100. The control unit 101 may also be implemented by, for example, a CPU.

[0060] The control unit 101 is configured with three functional modules: a determination unit 1011, a transmission unit 1012, and a function provision unit 1013. Each functional module can also be implemented by the CPU executing a stored program.

[0061] The determination unit 1011 determines whether the action conditions are met for each of the multiple driver assistance functions provided by the ECU 120. For example, the determination unit 1011 obtains control data for controlling the vehicle 10 and sensor data generated by on-board sensors via the bus of the in-vehicle network described later, and determines whether the action conditions are met.

[0062] It should be noted that the determination unit 1011 can also notify the driver of this information when the predetermined operating conditions of the driver assistance function are met. The notification can be made, for example, via an indicator light or display located in the driver's seat.

[0063] Here, the operating conditions for driver assistance functions will be explained.

[0064] Figure 3 This is a table representing multiple driver assistance functions and their activation conditions. For example, in the illustrated example, the driver assistance function "Snow Mode" can be used under the following conditions.

[0065] (1) The outside temperature is below 0 degrees Celsius.

[0066] (2) The windshield wipers are in operation.

[0067] (3) The current driving mode is a driving mode other than snow mode.

[0068] (4) Has a history of control intervention via traction control function.

[0069] This list of action conditions is maintained as action condition data by both the ECU 120 and the on-board unit 100.

[0070] The vehicle-mounted device 100 (determination unit 1011) determines that the operating conditions of the driver assistance function have been met by comparing such data with sensor data acquired via the vehicle network. The determination result is sent to the transmission unit 1012.

[0071] The sending unit 1012 generates data related to the state of the vehicle 10 (hereinafter referred to as vehicle data) and periodically sends it to the server device 200. The vehicle data includes data related to the vehicle's operation and the results of the determination made by the determination unit 1011.

[0072] Provide a detailed explanation of the vehicle data. Figure 4 This is an example of vehicle data generated by the sending unit 1012.

[0073] The vehicle ID is an identifier used to uniquely identify the vehicle 10 as an object.

[0074] Location information refers to the location (latitude and longitude) of the place where vehicle data was generated.

[0075] Driving data refers to data related to the driving of vehicle 10. Examples of driving data include, for instance, the vehicle 10's speed, direction of travel, and information related to driving operations (e.g., throttle opening, steering input). Such data can be acquired based on control data and sensor data flowing within the vehicle's network.

[0076] Symbol 401 is a field that stores the result of the determination performed by the determination unit 1011. This field stores the identifier of the driving assistance function whose operation condition is met. In this example, it shows that at a timing such as X, the operation condition of the driving assistance function with identifiers such as F001 and F002 is met. Hereinafter, the location where the operation condition of the driving assistance function is met will be referred to as the first location.

[0077] During the generation of vehicle data, if the operating conditions of any driving assistance function are met, the transmitting unit 1012 stores the identifier of the corresponding driving assistance function in a predetermined field (symbol 401) within the vehicle data. If the operating conditions of multiple driving assistance functions are met, multiple identifiers are stored in this field. It should be noted that if the operating conditions of any driving assistance function are not met, no data is stored in this field.

[0078] It should be noted that the vehicle data may also include other data related to the driving of the vehicle 10. Such data may include, for example, the vehicle 10's speed, direction of travel, and information related to driving operations (e.g., throttle opening, steering input).

[0079] Vehicle data can be acquired based on control data and sensor data flowing in the vehicle network.

[0080] The function providing unit 1013 performs various functions provided by the vehicle-mounted device 100. These functions provided by the vehicle-mounted device 100 include, for example, the following.

[0081] Terminal linking function

[0082] It connects to the terminals (smartphones, etc.) of the vehicle's occupants to play music and animations, mirror images, and perform other functions.

[0083] • Audio function

[0084] It is a function to play music stored on a storage device.

[0085] • Television / Radio Function

[0086] It has the function of receiving radio broadcasts and digital television broadcasts.

[0087] • Navigation function

[0088] It provides route navigation functionality based on map data stored on a storage device.

[0089] These functions can be provided, for example, via the input / output unit 104 (touch panel).

[0090] Storage unit 102 is a component for storing information and is composed of storage media such as RAM, disk, and flash memory. Storage unit 102 stores various programs executed by control unit 101, data used by those programs, etc. Additionally, storage unit 102 stores the aforementioned operating condition data (102A).

[0091] The communication unit 103 is a communication interface that connects the vehicle-mounted device 100 to the vehicle network bus.

[0092] The input / output unit 104 is a component that accepts input operations performed by the user and provides prompts to the user. Specifically, it consists of a touch panel and its control components, and a liquid crystal display and its control components. In this embodiment, the touch panel and the liquid crystal display are combined into a single touch panel display. The input / output unit 104 may also include a unit for outputting sound (amplifier, speaker) and a unit for inputting sound (microphone), etc.

[0093] The wireless communication unit 105 includes an antenna and a communication module for performing wireless communication. The antenna is an antenna element that inputs and outputs wireless signals. In this embodiment, the antenna is a device suitable for mobile communication (e.g., 3G, LTE, 5G, etc.). It should be noted that the antenna can also be configured to include multiple physical antennas. For example, in the case of mobile communication using high-frequency radio waves such as microwaves or millimeter waves, multiple antennas can be distributed to achieve communication stabilization. The communication module is a module used for performing mobile communication.

[0094] The location information acquisition unit 106 includes a GPS antenna and a positioning module for locating location information. The GPS antenna is an antenna that receives positioning signals transmitted from positioning satellites (also known as GNSS satellites). The positioning module is a module that calculates location information based on the signals received by the GPS antenna.

[0095] Next, the ECU of vehicle 10 will be explained.

[0096] An ECU is an electronic control unit that controls the components of vehicle 10. Vehicle 10 may contain multiple ECUs. These multiple ECUs may control components of different systems such as the engine system, electrical system, and powertrain system. An ECU has the function of generating prescribed messages and periodically sending and receiving them via the vehicle network. ECU 120 is one of these multiple ECUs.

[0097] ECU120 is an electronic control unit that provides multiple driver assistance functions. ECU120 provides these functions based on driver instructions. When the driver assistance function is designed to assist in driving the vehicle, ECU120 can also send steering control commands, throttle control commands, power distribution commands, etc., to other ECUs responsible for vehicle control. Each of the multiple driver assistance functions can be provided under predetermined conditions.

[0098] Similar to the vehicle-mounted device 100, the ECU 120 can be configured as a computer having processors such as CPU and GPU, main storage devices such as RAM and ROM, auxiliary storage devices such as EPROM, disk drives, and removable media.

[0099] The ECU 120 is configured to have a control unit 121, a storage unit 122, and a communication unit 123.

[0100] The control unit 121 is a computing unit that executes predetermined programs to realize various functions of the ECU 120. The control unit 121 may also be implemented by, for example, a CPU.

[0101] The control unit 121 is configured to have a driving assistance unit 1211 as a functional module. This functional module can also be implemented by the CPU executing a stored program.

[0102] The driver assistance unit 1211 provides driver assistance functions to the driver of the vehicle 10.

[0103] The driving assistance function is provided based on the driver's instructions. For example, when an operation to activate a predetermined driving assistance function is performed via a hardware switch, touch panel, etc., the driving assistance unit 1211 determines whether the operating conditions for that driving assistance function are met. Furthermore, if the operating conditions are met, the driving assistance unit 1211 begins providing the driving assistance function. It should be noted that if the operating conditions for the predetermined driving assistance function are not met, the operation to activate the driving assistance function itself may not be performed. For example, the menu displayed on the touch panel display may be set to not be displayed.

[0104] The driver assistance unit 1211 provides driver assistance functions, for example, by sending steering control commands, throttle control commands, power distribution commands, etc., to other ECUs responsible for vehicle control.

[0105] It should be noted that the driving assistance function in this embodiment assists driving operations, but the driving assistance function may not necessarily assist driving operations. For example, the driving assistance function may also be provided by the vehicle-mounted device 100. For example, it is also possible to provide functions that do not intervene in driving operations, such as searching for and suggesting routes with lower power consumption when the remaining amount of the driving battery is reduced.

[0106] The storage unit 122 is a component for storing information and is composed of storage media such as RAM, disk, and flash memory. The storage unit 122 stores various programs executed by the control unit 121, data used by those programs, etc. In addition, the storage unit 122 stores the same operating condition data (122A) as the operating condition data stored in the vehicle-mounted device 100.

[0107] The communication unit 123 is a communication interface that connects the ECU 120 to the vehicle network bus.

[0108] Sensor group 140 is a collection of multiple sensors present in vehicle 10. In this embodiment, the on-board unit 100 (or ECU 120) uses sensor data acquired by the sensors included in sensor group 140 to determine whether the operating conditions of a predetermined driving assistance function are met.

[0109] The sensor group 140 includes, for example, a vehicle speed sensor for acquiring vehicle speed, a steering sensor for acquiring steering angle, and a throttle sensor for acquiring throttle opening, which acquire sensor data related to driving operation.

[0110] It should be noted that the sensor group 140 may also include sensors that acquire operations other than driving. Examples of such sensors include sensors that acquire the operating status of windshield wipers and turn signals.

[0111] Additionally, sensor group 140 may also include sensors for acquiring other data. For example, sensor group 140 may include a temperature sensor and a rainfall sensor. The sensor data acquired by the sensors is transmitted to ECU 120 or vehicle-mounted equipment 100 via a network bus.

[0112] A network bus is a communication bus that constitutes an in-vehicle network. It should be noted that this example illustrates one bus, but vehicle 10 may also have two or more communication buses. Multiple communication buses can also be interconnected through a gateway that aggregates the multiple communication buses.

[0113] Next, the server device 200 will be described.

[0114] Server device 200 collects vehicle data from vehicle 10 (on-board device 100) and provides information related to the past driving of vehicle 10 to user terminal 300 based on the collected vehicle data. Specifically, server device 200 generates a map of locations where predetermined driving assistance functions can be used during the past driving of vehicle 10 and provides it to user terminal 300.

[0115] Figure 5 This is a diagram showing in detail the constituent elements of the server device 200 included in the vehicle system of this embodiment.

[0116] The server device 200 can be configured as a general-purpose computer. That is, the server device 200 can be configured as a computer having a processor such as a CPU and GPU, main storage devices such as RAM and ROM, and auxiliary storage devices such as EPROM, hard disk drives, and removable media. The operating system (OS), various programs, and various tables are stored in the auxiliary storage devices. The programs stored therein are loaded into the operating area of ​​the main storage device and executed. The execution of the programs controls the various components, thereby achieving the functions described later that are consistent with the predetermined purpose. However, some or all of the functions can also be implemented using hardware circuits such as ASICs or FPGAs.

[0117] The server device 200 is configured to have a control unit 201, a storage unit 202, and a communication unit 203.

[0118] The control unit 201 is a computing device responsible for controlling the server device 200. The control unit 201 can be implemented using a computing processing device such as a CPU.

[0119] The control unit 201 is configured to have a data collection unit 2011 and an information provision unit 2012 as functional modules. Each functional module can also be implemented by the CPU executing a stored program.

[0120] The data collection unit 2011 performs the process of collecting vehicle data from multiple vehicles 10 (vehicle-mounted devices 100) and storing it in a database.

[0121] The information providing unit 2012 generates information to support the use of driving assistance functions based on a request from the user terminal 300, and provides it to the user terminal 300. Specifically, the information providing unit 2012 generates a map for teaching locations where the driving assistance function can be used (i.e., locations that meet the operating conditions of the driving assistance function) for a predetermined driving assistance function, and provides it to the user terminal 300.

[0122] Figure 6 This is an example of a map (hereinafter referred to as a path map) representing the driving path of vehicle 10. The information providing unit 2012 generates an image that maps (overlays) the locations (first locations) that meet the operating conditions of the driving assistance function onto the path map, referring to the vehicle data of the corresponding vehicle 10. It should be noted that, while vehicle 10 is driving, if the state of meeting the operating conditions of the driving assistance function continues, such as... Figure 7 As shown, the corresponding road sections can also be mapped onto the path map.

[0123] In addition, the information provision department 2012 can also overlay text explaining which driving assistance functions can be used at the corresponding location and road section onto the route map.

[0124] The storage unit 202 is configured to include a main storage device and an auxiliary storage device. The main storage device is a memory that displays the program executed by the control unit 201 and the data used by the control program. The auxiliary storage device is a device that stores the program executed in the control unit 201 and the data used by the control program.

[0125] In addition, the vehicle database 202A and the road database 202B are stored in the storage unit 202.

[0126] Vehicle database 202A is a database that stores vehicle data sent from multiple on-board devices 100 under the management of the system. The vehicle database 202A stores data shown in the figure. Figure 4 The explanation includes multiple vehicle data points.

[0127] Road Database 202B is a database that stores road map data. The data stored in Road Database 202B is used by the Information Provision Department in 2012 when generating route maps.

[0128] The communication unit 203 is a communication interface for connecting the server device 200 to a network. The communication unit 203 may be configured, for example, to include a network interface board and a wireless communication interface for wireless communication.

[0129] Next, the user terminal 300 will be explained.

[0130] User terminal 300 is a computer owned by a user (typically, the driver of vehicle 10) associated with vehicle 10.

[0131] Figure 8 This is a diagram showing the constituent elements of the user terminal 300 in more detail.

[0132] The user terminal 300 is configured to include a control unit 301, a storage unit 302, a communication unit 303, and an input / output unit 304.

[0133] The control unit 301 is a computing device responsible for controlling the user terminal 300. The control unit 301 can be implemented by a computing processing device such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit).

[0134] The control unit 301 accesses the server device 200 and performs functions that interact with the server device 200. This function can also be implemented using dedicated application software that operates on the user terminal 300. The control unit 301 processes requests from the server device 200 for a route map corresponding to a given vehicle 10 and processes the output of the route map received from the server device 200.

[0135] The storage unit 302 is configured to include a main storage device and an auxiliary storage device. The main storage device is a memory that contains the program executed by the control unit 301 and the data used by the control program. The auxiliary storage device is a device that stores the program executed by the control unit 301 and the data used by the control program. The auxiliary storage device may also store programs packaged as application programs that are executed by the control unit 301. Additionally, it may store the operating system used to execute these application programs. The program stored in the auxiliary storage device is loaded into the main storage device and executed by the control unit 301, thereby performing the processing described later.

[0136] The communication unit 303 is a wireless communication interface for connecting the user terminal 300 to a network. The communication unit 303 is configured, for example, to communicate with the server device 200 via mobile communication services such as wireless LAN, 3G, LTE, and 5G.

[0137] The input / output unit 304 is a unit that accepts input operations performed by the user and provides prompts to the user. The input / output unit 304 may be, for example, a touch panel display. The input / output unit 304 may also be composed of a liquid crystal display and its control components, or a touch panel and its control components.

[0138] It should be noted that, Figure 2 , Figure 5 as well as Figure 8 The structure shown is one example; all or part of the functions illustrated can also be executed using specially designed circuitry. Alternatively, programs can be stored or executed using a combination of main and auxiliary storage devices, other than those shown in the diagram.

[0139] Next, the method by which the on-board device 100 generates vehicle data will be explained. Figure 9 This is a flowchart of the method executed by the vehicle-mounted device 100. The process illustrated is repeatedly executed at predetermined cycles during the movement of the vehicle 10.

[0140] The processing in steps S11 to S13 is performed independently for each of the multiple driver assistance functions of the vehicle 10.

[0141] First, in step S11, the determination unit 1011 acquires sensor data.

[0142] For example, in Figure 3 In such cases, vehicle speed, outside temperature, windshield wiper status, turn signal status, driving mode, traction control function, cruise control function status, and steering operation history are among the data acquired. Sensor data can be obtained from the sensors included in sensor group 140 and from the multiple ECUs present in vehicle 10.

[0143] In step S12, the determination unit 1011 determines whether the action conditions are met for the target driving assistance function. This determination can be made based on sensor data and action condition data 102A.

[0144] In step S13, the result of the determination made in step S12 is temporarily stored. In this step, the identifier, location information, date and time information, etc. of the driving assistance function that meets the action conditions are temporarily stored.

[0145] The determination unit 1011 performs the above processing on all the multiple driver assistance functions of the vehicle 10.

[0146] In step S14, the sending unit 1012 generates vehicle data based on the temporarily stored determination result and sends it to the server device 200. For example... Figure 4 As shown, vehicle data consists of multiple fields.

[0147] Repeatedly Figure 9 The processing shown continues until the vehicle 10 finishes its journey (e.g., until the ignition switch is turned off). That is, during the journey of the vehicle 10, vehicle data is periodically generated and sent sequentially to the server device 200.

[0148] Vehicle data is received by server device 200 (data collection unit 2011) and stored in vehicle database 202A.

[0149] It should be noted that it can also be done at the beginning. Figure 9 Before the processing shown, the vehicle-mounted device 100 performs a process (initialization process) to obtain information related to the user and the vehicle from the server device 200.

[0150] Next, the process of user terminal 300 accessing server device 200 and requesting a path map will be explained. Figure 10 This is a sequence diagram of the processes executed by the server device 200 and the user terminal 300. The process begins with the user terminal 300 (control unit 301) initiating a timed start for the application software used to access the server device 200.

[0151] First, the control unit 301 sends the user's identifier to the server device 200. The user's identifier may also be pre-stored in the storage unit 302. In this step, the server device 200 determines the identifier of the vehicle 10 to be targeted based on the user's identifier received from the user terminal 300.

[0152] In step S21, the information providing unit 2012 generates a function selection screen. The function selection screen is a screen for selecting any one of several driver assistance functions available to the vehicle 10. The driver assistance functions available to the vehicle 10 can be obtained based on the vehicle database 202A. Figure 11 This is an example of a function selection screen. The function selection screen is sent to the user terminal 300.

[0153] In step S22, the control unit 301 outputs a function selection screen, allowing the user to make a selection. When the user clicks any button (e.g., symbol 1101), the selected driving assistance function is notified to the server device 200.

[0154] In step S23, the information providing unit 2012 retrieves records of corresponding vehicle data from the vehicle database 202A based on the identifier of the vehicle 10 and the driving assistance function specified by the user.

[0155] Next, in step S24, the information providing unit 2012 generates a user interface screen for displaying a route map to the user. Additionally, the information providing unit 2012 generates patterns representing locations or areas that meet the driving assistance function's operational conditions, and overlays these patterns onto the route map. These patterns can be icons or graphics, etc.

[0156] Based on the vehicle data extracted in step S23, the information providing unit 2012 determines the location (or road section) that meets the operating conditions of the specified driving assistance function, and overlays the pattern representing the location (or road section) onto the route map. Figure 12 This is an example of an image that overlays patterns on a path map to represent intervals that meet the action conditions of a specified driving assistance function.

[0157] As explained above, the vehicle system of this embodiment periodically determines whether each of the plurality of vehicles 10 meets the predetermined operating conditions for the driving assistance function, and notifies the server device 200 of the determination result along with location information. Furthermore, based on the information collected from the vehicles 10, the server device 200 teaches the user the locations where the operating conditions for the driving assistance function are met. Thus, the user can subsequently ascertain the locations where the operating conditions for the driving assistance function are met.

[0158] (Second Implementation)

[0159] In the first embodiment, the user is notified afterward of all locations where the conditions for the operation of the driving assistance function are met. On the other hand, a method is considered where the on-board unit 100 notifies the user in real time of the conditions for the operation of the driving assistance function being met while the vehicle is in motion. In this method, it is not necessary to repeat the same notification as already given.

[0160] The second implementation is an implementation in which the server device 200 records whether a notification to the user is made during the journey, and based on this, determines whether to make a notification afterward for each location.

[0161] In the second embodiment, while the vehicle 10 is in motion, the on-board unit 100 notifies the user (i.e., the driver) in real time under certain conditions, provided that the operating conditions of the driving assistance function are met. Furthermore, the location where notifications are given during driving is omitted from the subsequent notification process.

[0162] Figure 13 This is a flowchart of the processes performed by the vehicle-mounted device 100 in the second embodiment. It should be noted that processes identical to those in the first embodiment are indicated by dashed lines, and detailed descriptions are omitted.

[0163] In the second embodiment, if the determination is affirmative in step S12, the determination unit 1011 determines whether the notification conditions are met (step S12A). The notification conditions are conditions used to notify the driver while driving that they can utilize driving assistance functions. For example, if a notification is given while the turn signal is activated or the vehicle is not sufficiently far away, the driver's attention may become distracted. In this step, it is determined whether the vehicle 10 is in such a situation. It should be noted that data related to the notification conditions can also be stored in the storage unit 102.

[0164] If the notification conditions are not met, the process is transferred to step S13A, and the determination unit 1011 temporarily stores the determination result.

[0165] If the notification conditions are met, the process proceeds to step S12B, where the determination unit 1011 outputs a notification via the input / output unit 104 indicating that the corresponding driving assistance function can be used. If a notification has been output, in step S13B, the determination result is associated with a notification flag and temporarily stored. The notification flag is an indicator indicating whether a notification has been received while driving.

[0166] In the second embodiment, a notification flag is added to the vehicle data. Figure 14 This is an example of vehicle data in the second embodiment. When the notification flag (symbol 1401) is "1", it means that a notification has been made regarding the corresponding driving assistance function while driving. In step S14A, the sending unit 1012 generates vehicle data containing such a flag.

[0167] Furthermore, in the second embodiment, in step S24, the server device 200 (information providing unit 2012) only performs mapping to the route map for locations (or road sections) where no notification has been given during the journey. In other words, mapping is omitted for the first location where a notification sign has been set.

[0168] This method can prevent repeated notifications during and after driving.

[0169] It should be noted that, in the above description, no notification will be sent inside the vehicle if the notification conditions are not met. However, in such cases, the notification can be temporarily retained and output at a time when the notification conditions are met (e.g., the time when the lane change is completed).

[0170] (Third Implementation)

[0171] The third implementation method records whether the user uses driving assistance functions while driving, and omits subsequent notifications for locations where driving assistance functions were used.

[0172] Figure 15 This is a flowchart of the processes performed by the vehicle-mounted device 100 in the third embodiment. It should be noted that processes identical to those in the first embodiment are indicated by dashed lines, and detailed explanations are omitted.

[0173] In the third embodiment, if the determination is positive in step S12, the determination unit 1011 determines whether the corresponding driving assistance function is currently being used (step S12C).

[0174] If the corresponding driving assistance function is not being used, the process is transferred to step S13A, and the determination unit 1011 temporarily stores the determination result.

[0175] If the corresponding driving assistance function is being used, the process proceeds to step S13C, where the determination unit 1011 temporarily stores the determination result in association with the utilization flag. The utilization flag is a flag indicating whether the corresponding driving assistance function has been used while driving.

[0176] In the third embodiment, the notification sign (symbol 1401) in the second embodiment is replaced with a utilization sign. The presence of a utilization sign indicates that the corresponding driving assistance function has been utilized at the corresponding location.

[0177] Furthermore, in the third embodiment, in step S24, the server device 200 (information providing unit 2012) only performs mapping to the route map for driving assistance functions that are not used during driving. In other words, mapping is omitted for the first location where a utilization marker has been set.

[0178] According to this method, it is possible to prevent notifications from being sent to the same location even though the actual results of using the driving assistance function exist at the predetermined location.

[0179] (Modified Example)

[0180] The above-described implementation method is merely one example, and this disclosure can be implemented with appropriate modifications without departing from its spirit.

[0181] For example, the processes and components described in this disclosure can be freely combined and implemented as long as they do not create technical contradictions.

[0182] Furthermore, while the description of the implementation provides an example of the vehicle-mounted device 100 generating vehicle data and sending it to the server device 200, the vehicle-mounted device 100 may also function as the server device 200. In this case, the vehicle-mounted device 100 may also generate a route map and send it to the user terminal 300.

[0183] It should be noted that in this embodiment, an example is shown where the server device 200 teaches the user about locations or intervals that meet the operating conditions of a driving assistance function specified by the user. However, locations or intervals that do not require subsequent teaching may be omitted. For example, for a certain driving assistance function, if it is believed that the driver is familiar with the usage method and does not require teaching, the driving assistance function can be set to be outside the scope of teaching. Data that establishes an association between the user and the driving assistance function (or outside the scope of teaching) can also be stored in the storage unit 202.

[0184] Furthermore, a process described as being performed by one device can also be executed by multiple devices. Alternatively, a process described as being performed by different devices can also be executed by one device. In a computer system, the hardware architecture (server architecture) used to implement each function can be flexibly changed.

[0185] This disclosure can also be implemented by supplying a computer program containing the functions described in the above embodiments to a computer, which is then read and executed by one or more processors. Such a computer program can be provided to the computer either by a non-volatile computer-readable storage medium connectable to the computer's system bus or via a network. Non-volatile computer-readable storage media include, for example, any type of disk such as a hard disk (floppy disk, hard disk drive (HDD)), an optical disk (CD-ROM, DVD, Blu-ray disc, etc.), read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), EPROM, EEPROM, magnetic cards, flash memory, optical cards, and any type of medium suitable for storing electronic instructions.

Claims

1. An information processing device, wherein, The information processing device has a control unit that performs the following actions: Obtain vehicle data, which is related to the driving of the first vehicle; Based on the vehicle data, the location where the first vehicle met the action conditions of the predetermined driving assistance function during driving is identified as the first location. Extract a second location that meets the predetermined conditions from the first location; as well as A map is generated after the first vehicle has traveled, which maps the second location onto the past travel path of the first vehicle. The second location that meets the predetermined conditions is a location where the user has not used the predetermined driving assistance function during the driving of the first vehicle, or a location where the user has not been notified of the operation conditions of the predetermined driving assistance function during the driving of the first vehicle.

2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The control unit teaches the user who has established an association with the first vehicle about the second location.

3. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The vehicle data represents the condition for the driving assistance function to be performed at each location.

4. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The vehicle data is data indicating whether or not the notification has been received for each location.

5. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The vehicle data represents the utilization status of the driving assistance functions at each location.

6. A vehicle system comprising an onboard device and a server device mounted on a first vehicle, wherein, The vehicle-mounted device has a first control unit that sends vehicle data, which is related to the driving of the first vehicle, to the server device. The server device has a second control unit that, based on the vehicle data acquired from the vehicle-mounted device, identifies locations where the first vehicle met the predetermined driving assistance function's action conditions during its operation as first locations, extracts second locations that meet the predetermined conditions from the first locations, and generates a map after the first vehicle has traveled, mapping the second locations onto the first vehicle's past travel path. The second location that meets the predetermined conditions is a location where the user has not used the predetermined driving assistance function during the driving of the first vehicle, or a location where the user has not been notified of the operation conditions of the predetermined driving assistance function during the driving of the first vehicle.

7. The vehicle system according to claim 6, wherein, The second control unit teaches the user who has established an association with the first vehicle about the second location.

8. The vehicle system according to claim 6, wherein, The vehicle data represents the condition for the driving assistance function to be performed at each location.

9. The vehicle system according to claim 6, wherein, The vehicle data is data indicating whether or not the notification has been received for each location.

10. The vehicle system according to claim 6, wherein, The vehicle data represents the utilization status of the driving assistance functions at each location.

11. An information processing method, wherein, The information processing method includes the following steps: Obtain vehicle data, which is related to the driving of the first vehicle; Based on the vehicle data, the location where the first vehicle met the action conditions of the predetermined driving assistance function during driving is identified as the first location. Extract a second location that meets the predetermined conditions from the first location; as well as A map is generated after the first vehicle has traveled, mapping the second location onto the past travel path of the first vehicle. The second location that meets the predetermined conditions is a location where the user has not used the predetermined driving assistance function during the driving of the first vehicle, or a location where the user has not been notified of the operation conditions of the predetermined driving assistance function during the driving of the first vehicle.

12. The information processing method according to claim 11, wherein, It also includes the step of teaching the user who has established an association with the first vehicle about the second location.

Images