Vehicle control systems

Abstract

A vehicle control system includes a driving control unit (1) for switching between automatic driving and manual driving of a vehicle (V), a seat (10) capable of changing to different configurations during automatic driving and manual driving, and a seat control unit (2) for controlling the movement of the seat (10) when the configuration is changed. When the seat (10) is in the configuration during automatic driving, the driving control unit (1) can control the vehicle (V) not to switch from automatic driving to manual driving. This improves safety when switching from automatic driving to manual driving.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a vehicle control system. Background Art

[0002] In recent years, autonomous driving technologies have been developed that allow vehicles, such as automobiles, to maintain or change their lanes, avoid obstacles, or stop or proceed according to the situation while monitoring their surroundings. Various proposals have been made for such autonomous driving technologies. For example, one known approach allows for a rear-facing seating arrangement in which the driver's seat is oriented opposite to the vehicle's direction of travel during autonomous driving (rearward), allowing the rear passenger and driver to face each other (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

[0003] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2017-039468.

[0004] In a vehicle capable of automatic driving, it is considered that the driver may switch from automatic driving to manual driving depending on the situation. In this case, the driver's seat needs to be returned from the posture during automatic driving to a posture suitable for manual driving.

[0005] However, for example, there may be a situation where the time when manual driving should be started does not coincide with the time required for the seat to return to a position suitable for manual driving, or even if the seat returns to a position suitable for manual driving, manual driving cannot be started depending on the driver's condition, and it is desired to improve safety. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned circumstances, and an object of the present invention is to provide a vehicle control system capable of improving safety when switching from automatic driving to manual driving.

[0007] In order to solve the above problems, the invention described in Technical Solution 1 is characterized in that it is equipped with a driving control unit for switching between automatic driving and manual driving of a vehicle, a seat that can be changed into different shapes during automatic driving and manual driving, and a seat control unit for controlling the movement of the aforementioned seat when changing the shape. When the aforementioned seat is in the shape for automatic driving, the aforementioned driving control unit can control the vehicle not to switch from automatic driving to manual driving.

[0008] The invention described in claim 2 is characterized in that, in the vehicle control system described in claim 1 , the seat control unit controls the amount of movement of the seat when the mode changes from manual driving to automatic driving.

[0009] The invention according to claim 3 is characterized in that, in the vehicle control system according to claim 1 , the seat control unit controls an operation speed when changing the shape of the seat.

[0010] The invention described in Technical Solution 4 is characterized in that, in the vehicle control system described in Technical Solution 3, the seat control unit controls the speed of movement of the seat when changing from the automatic driving mode to the manual driving mode, thereby extending the required time.

[0011] The invention described in Technical Solution 5 is characterized in that, in the vehicle control system described in Technical Solution 3 or 4, the driving control unit is controlled based on a forced replacement mode for forcibly switching between automatic driving and manual driving, and an autonomous replacement mode for switching between automatic driving and manual driving according to the driver's choice, and the seat control unit controls the speed of the movement of the seat in the forced replacement mode and the autonomous replacement mode, respectively.

[0012] The invention described in Technical Solution 6 is characterized in that, in the vehicle control system described in Technical Solution 1, there is a driver status checking unit for checking the driver's status, and the driving control unit can be controlled in a manner such that the switching from automatic driving to manual driving of the vehicle is not performed in accordance with the inspection result of the driver's status based on the driver status checking unit.

[0013] The invention described in claim 7 is characterized in that, in the vehicle control system described in claim 6 , the driver state checking unit checks whether the driver is sitting on the seat.

[0014] The invention described in claim 8 is characterized in that, in the vehicle control system described in claim 6 , the driver state checking unit checks the health state of the driver.

[0015] The invention described in claim 9 is characterized in that, in the vehicle control system described in claim 1, the vehicle includes a plurality of seats.

[0016] When the aforementioned vehicle switches from automatic driving to manual driving with the help of the aforementioned driving control unit, the aforementioned seat control unit can control the action so that the other aforementioned seats also change from the automatic driving state to the manual driving state together with the aforementioned seat used by the driver.

[0017] The invention described in claim 10 is characterized in that, in the vehicle control system described in claim 9 , the seat control unit preferentially controls the movement of the driver's seat among the plurality of seats.

[0018] The invention described in Technical Solution 11 is characterized in that, in the vehicle control system described in Technical Solution 1, it comprises the aforementioned driving control unit for switching between automatic driving and manual driving of the vehicle, the aforementioned seat arranged in the aforementioned vehicle, the aforementioned seat having a protection mechanism for protecting the aforementioned passenger when the passenger sitting in the seat needs to be protected, and a protection mechanism control unit for controlling the action of the protection mechanism.

[0019] The invention described in Technical Solution 12 is characterized in that, in the vehicle control system described in Technical Solution 1, it is provided with the aforementioned driving control unit for switching the vehicle between automatic driving and manual driving, the aforementioned seat that can be changed into multiple forms, and the aforementioned seat control unit for controlling the movement of the aforementioned seat when changing the form, and the multiple forms of the aforementioned seat include forms suitable for manual driving and forms not suitable for manual driving.

[0020] Effects of the Invention

[0021] According to the invention described in claim 1, when the seat is in the automatic driving mode, the driving control unit can control the vehicle so as not to switch from automatic driving to manual driving. This prevents the vehicle from switching from automatic driving to manual driving before the seat is switched from the automatic driving mode to the manual driving mode. Therefore, safety can be improved when switching from automatic driving to manual driving.

[0022] According to the invention described in claim 2, the amount of seat movement when changing from the manual to the automatic driving mode can be limited by taking into account the time required to switch from automatic driving to manual driving. This allows the timing of switching from automatic driving to manual driving to coincide with the timing of the seat changing from the automatic driving mode to the manual driving mode. Consequently, safety can be improved when switching from automatic driving to manual driving.

[0023] According to the invention described in Technical Solution 3, the seat control unit controls the movement speed when changing the shape of the seat, so that the movement when changing the shape of the seat can be coordinated with the timing of switching between automatic driving and manual driving, which can improve the safety when switching between automatic driving and manual driving.

[0024] According to the invention described in claim 4, the seat's movement during the change of configuration can be slowed down, coinciding with the timing of the switch from automatic to manual driving, allowing passengers to calmly face manual driving. This improves safety during the switch from automatic to manual driving.

[0025] According to the invention described in Technical Solution 5, the seat control unit controls the speed of the seat movement in the forced replacement mode and the autonomous replacement mode respectively, so that the seat can be moved at a speed suitable for each mode, which can improve safety when switching from automatic driving to manual driving.

[0026] According to the invention described in Technical Solution 6, when the inspection result of the driver's status does not indicate a desire to switch from automatic driving to manual driving, the vehicle can be controlled in a manner that does not switch from automatic driving to manual driving, thereby improving safety when switching from automatic driving to manual driving.

[0027] According to the invention described in Technical Solution 7, the driver status detection unit detects whether the driver is sitting in the seat, so it can prevent the vehicle from switching from automatic driving to manual driving when the driver is not sitting in the seat (driver's seat), and can improve the safety when switching from automatic driving to manual driving.

[0028] According to the invention described in Technical Solution 8, the driver status checking unit checks the driver's health status, which can prevent the driver from switching from automatic driving to manual driving when the driver is in a health state that makes him unable to drive, and can improve the safety when switching from automatic driving to manual driving.

[0029] According to the invention described in Technical Solution 9, when the driving control unit of the vehicle switches from automatic driving to manual driving, the seat control unit can control the action in such a way that other seats also change from the automatic driving mode to the manual driving mode together with the driver's seat, so multiple seats can be changed from the automatic driving mode to the manual driving mode together.

[0030] According to the invention described in claim 10, the driver's seat can be changed to the manual driving mode earlier than other seats, thereby improving safety when switching from automatic driving to manual driving.

[0031] According to the invention described in claim 11, the seat includes a protection mechanism for protecting a seated passenger when a situation requires protection, and a protection mechanism control unit for controlling the operation of the protection mechanism. Therefore, when a situation requires protection of a seated passenger, the protection mechanism control unit controls the operation of the protection mechanism to protect the seated passenger. Therefore, the seat can ensure the safety of the seated passenger when the seat is returned from an automatic driving configuration to a configuration suitable for manual driving.

[0032] According to the invention described in Technical Solution 12, the multiple forms of the seat include a form suitable for manual driving and a form not suitable for manual driving, so the safety of the passengers driving the vehicle can be improved in the form suitable for manual driving, and the passengers can sit in any posture in the form not suitable for manual driving, which can improve comfort. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0033] Figure 1 This is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of a vehicle control system.

[0034] Figure 2 This is a flowchart for switching from automatic driving to manual driving.

[0035] Figure 3A It is a diagram illustrating an example of changing the shape of a seat.

[0036] Figure 3BIt is a diagram illustrating an example of changing the shape of a seat.

[0037] Figure 4A It is a diagram illustrating an example of changing the shape of a seat.

[0038] Figure 4B It is a diagram illustrating an example of changing the shape of a seat.

[0039] Figure 5A This is a diagram illustrating the outline of the passenger protection system.

[0040] Figure 5B This is a diagram illustrating the outline of the passenger protection system.

[0041] Figure 6 This is a diagram illustrating the outline of the passenger protection system.

[0042] Figure 7 This is a diagram illustrating the outline of the passenger protection system. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0043] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, in the embodiments described below, various technically preferred limitations are added for implementing the present invention, but the technical scope of the present invention is not limited to the following embodiments and illustrations.

[0044] Figure 1 Shows the schematic structure of the vehicle control system.

[0045] The vehicle control system of this embodiment includes a driving control unit 1 for switching between automatic and manual driving of a vehicle V, a seat 10 capable of changing to different configurations during automatic and manual driving, a seat control unit 2 for controlling the movement of the seat 10 during configuration changes, a seat configuration changing unit 20 for changing the configuration of the seat 10 based on the control of the seat control unit 2, a driver status checking unit 30, and a protection mechanism 40, each of which is connected to an in-vehicle network. A plurality of seats 10 are provided in the vehicle V.

[0046] [About the driving control department]

[0047] The driving control unit 1 is composed of a microcomputer including a central processing unit (CPU), read-only memory (ROM), and random access memory (RAM). Furthermore, various devices such as brake lights, auxiliary equipment (such as turn signals, headlights, and wipers), and actuators are connected to the driving control unit 1.

[0048] The driving control unit 1 loads a program pre-stored in a read-only memory into a random access memory and executes it on a central processing unit to control the operation of various devices, thereby controlling automatic driving. The driving control unit 1 may also be composed of a plurality of electronic control units.

[0049] The driving control unit 1 specifically controls the switching between automatic driving (which determines the surrounding conditions and the status of the vehicle V to control the vehicle V) and manual driving by the passenger. During automatic driving, the driving control unit 1 determines the vehicle and its surrounding conditions based on information obtained from various sensors, a surrounding camera, and other peripheral image sensors, and a surrounding condition monitoring unit 3, to enable the vehicle V to autonomously travel. Furthermore, the driving control unit 1 performs automatic driving control processing to control actuators such as the acceleration, braking, and steering angle, based on the results of the determination. During the automatic driving control processing, a travel plan is generated along a pre-set target route based on the surrounding conditions of the vehicle V and map information, and driving is controlled so that the vehicle V autonomously travels according to the generated travel plan.

[0050] For example, during manual driving by a passenger, the driving control unit 1 can automatically initiate an autonomous driving control process in response to the behavior of the vehicle V and surrounding conditions to assist the passenger in driving the vehicle V. In this case, the driving control unit 1 outputs information indicating the start of the autonomous driving control process. Furthermore, when switching from manual driving by the passenger to autonomous driving based on the autonomous driving control process in response to a passenger's instruction, the driving control unit 1 outputs information indicating the transfer of driving authority, i.e., a predetermined message indicating the start of the autonomous driving control process.

[0051] Furthermore, during the execution of the automatic driving control process, the driving control unit 1 can automatically terminate (or cancel) the automatic driving control process in response to the behavior of the vehicle V or surrounding conditions, thereby prompting the passenger to engage in manual driving of the vehicle V. In this case, the driving control unit 1 outputs information indicating the termination of the automatic driving control process in order to prompt the passenger to engage in manual driving of the vehicle V. Furthermore, when the automatic driving control process switches to manual driving by the passenger in response to a passenger's instruction, the driving control unit 1 outputs information indicating the transfer of driving authority, i.e., information indicating the termination of the automatic driving control process, i.e., a predetermined message.

[0052] Furthermore, the driving control unit 1 may include a communicator for transmitting and receiving information such as surrounding conditions between the vehicle V and the outside of the vehicle V. An example of the communicator is a communicator that receives road conditions through road-to-vehicle communication, such as a wireless communication device using narrow-area communication based on Dedicated Short Range Communications (DSRC) technology.

[0053] Furthermore, the surrounding conditions, i.e., information indicating road conditions received through road-to-vehicle communication, include information such as the curvature of the lane of travel and the road slope, the shape and condition of the road, the positional relationship of the vehicle V relative to the lane, information indicating the positional relationship of other moving vehicles, and surrounding traffic volume. Furthermore, the driving control unit 1 may include a navigation system as an example of a device for obtaining surrounding conditions.

[0054] The surrounding situation detection unit 3 includes various sensors, surrounding camera information, and other equipment to detect the surrounding conditions of the vehicle V for automated driving by the driving control unit 1. The surrounding situation detection unit 3 uses, for example, image information from the surrounding camera information, obstacle information from radar, and obstacle information from laser imaging detection and ranging (LIDER) as the surrounding conditions of the vehicle V. Examples of surrounding conditions include the position of the white line relative to the vehicle V's lane of travel, the position of the lane center, the road width, the road shape, and the conditions of obstacles surrounding the vehicle V. Examples of road shape include the curvature of the lane of travel, changes in the slope of the road surface where sensor predictions are effective, and undulations. Furthermore, examples of obstacle conditions surrounding the vehicle V include information distinguishing between fixed and mobile obstacles, the position of obstacles relative to the vehicle V, the direction of movement of obstacles relative to the vehicle V, and the relative speed of obstacles relative to the vehicle V.

[0055] [About the seat controls and seats]

[0056] The seat control unit 2 is used to change the position, orientation, and posture (i.e., configuration) of a seat 10 installed in the vehicle V relative to the vehicle V. It is composed of a microcomputer including a central processing unit (CPU), read-only memory (ROM), and random access memory (RAM). In addition to the driving control unit 1 and the seat control unit 2, the vehicle control system of this embodiment also includes various mechanisms necessary for changing the configuration of the seat 10, such as a storage mechanism for storing various information and programs, an input mechanism for transmitting the passenger's intentions to the system, and an output mechanism for transmitting various information to the passenger.

[0057] The seat control unit 2 is connected to the driving control unit 1 and can control the shape of the seat 10 in conjunction with the driving control of the vehicle V by the driving control unit 1. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the driving control unit 1 and the seat control unit 2 may be integrated into one control unit.

[0058] Seat 10 Figure 3AAs shown, it includes a seat cushion 11 for supporting the buttocks of an occupant, a seat back 12 whose lower end is supported by the seat cushion 11, a headrest 13 provided at the upper end of the seat back 12 for supporting the head of the occupant, and a footrest 14 provided at the front end of the seat cushion 11 for supporting the feet of the occupant.

[0059] The seat cushion 11 and the seat back 12 have frames (not shown) that serve as their frameworks. The seat cushion 11 and the seat back 12 also have side supports 11a and 12a at their left and right ends, which are obliquely bulged to hold passengers.

[0060] The frame of the seat cushion 11 is supported on the floor surface of the vehicle body by a support mechanism (not shown).

[0061] Headrest 13 as Figure 3A 、 Figure 3B A post 13 a is shown having been mounted to the frame of the seat back 12 .

[0062] The footrest 14 has a frame that constitutes the skeleton of the footrest 14 although not shown.

[0063] The seat shape changing unit 20 includes a support mechanism, an actuator, and the like for changing the shape of the seat 10 relative to the vehicle V. The seat configuration of the seat 10 can be changed by the seat shape changing unit 20. In this embodiment, two rows of seats 10 are arranged in the vehicle width direction and in the vehicle front-rear direction, respectively, and the shape of each seat 10 can be changed by the seat control unit 2 and the seat shape changing unit 20.

[0064] Each of the plurality of seats 10 is configured to be changeable into a plurality of configurations, and is changed into the plurality of configurations by the seat control unit 2 and the seat configuration change unit 20 .

[0065] The plurality of configurations of the seat 10 include a configuration suitable for manual driving and a configuration unsuitable for manual driving.

[0066] In this embodiment, when the driving control unit 1 switches from automatic driving to manual driving, the seat control unit 2 controls the seat shape changing unit 20 to change the seat configuration to a manual driving configuration (a configuration suitable for manual driving). Conversely, when the driving control unit 1 switches from manual driving to automatic driving, the seat control unit 2 controls the seat shape changing unit 20 to change the seat configuration to an automatic driving configuration (a configuration suitable for manual driving). Specifically, the configuration unsuitable for manual driving is the configuration of the seat 10 that is changed by the seat shape changing unit 20 under control of the seat control unit 2 when the vehicle V switches from manual driving to automatic driving.

[0067] Furthermore, the seat 10, which has been modified to be suitable for manual driving, can be adjusted manually by the passenger. In other words, the passenger himself can make fine adjustments according to the characteristics of his body.

[0068] There are multiple modes of seat 10 that are not suitable for manual driving, and the seat 10 is controlled by the seat control unit 2 so that it assumes the mode selected by the passenger from among these multiple modes. That is, although not shown in the figure, the multiple modes (multiple modes) of the seat 10 during automatic driving can be displayed on a display for the navigation system, for example, so that the passenger can select one, or buttons that can select multiple modes can be provided inside the vehicle V. In other words, multiple options (multiple modes) are pre-stored in the vehicle control system, and a selection mechanism (input mechanism) for selecting the mode of the seat 10 is installed, so that the passenger can select the mode of the seat 10 in any mode from the multiple options (multiple modes).

[0069] Furthermore, the seat control unit 2 operates the seat shape changing unit 20 so as to change the shape of the seat 10 in accordance with the selection made by the passenger using the selection mechanism.

[0070] In order to enable the above-mentioned change in form, the seat 10 includes a first angle changing unit 21, a second angle changing unit 22, a third angle changing unit 23, a fourth angle changing unit 24, a fifth angle changing unit 25, a seat rotating unit 26, a seat sliding unit 27, and a seat posture detecting unit 28 (see FIG. Figure 1 ).

[0071] The first angle changing unit 21 is capable of changing the angle of the seat cushion 11 by being controlled by the seat control unit 2 and is incorporated into the support mechanism.

[0072] The seat cushion 11 can change its angle from an angle suitable for manual driving to a flat state by means of the first angle changing portion 21. Figure 3A The state where the front end portion is positioned above the rear end portion as shown becomes Figure 3B The flat state shown.

[0073] The second angle changing unit 22 can be controlled by the seat control unit 2 to change the angle of the seat back 12, and includes the above-mentioned frame of the seat back 12, a rotating shaft 22a that can rotate the seat back 12 relative to the seat cushion 11, and an actuator (not shown) that drives the rotating shaft 22a to rotate.

[0074] The seat back 12 can change its angle from an angle suitable for manual driving to a flat state by means of the second angle changing portion 22. Figure 3AThe tilted state shown in FIG. 1 is changed to Figure 3B As shown in the flat state.

[0075] The third angle changing unit 23 is controlled by the seat control unit 2 to change the angles of the side supports 11 a and 12 a of the seat cushion 11 and seat back 12. The third angle changing unit 23 includes a movable mechanism for opening the cushion members constituting the side supports 11 a and 12 a to the left and right. Specifically, the movable mechanism is built into the seat cushion 11 and seat back 12.

[0076] The side supports 11a and 12a can change their angles from an angle suitable for manual driving to a flat state by means of the third angle changing portion 23. That is, the seat cushion 11 and the seat back 12 can be changed from the angle suitable for manual driving to the flat state. Figure 4A 、 Figure 4B The side supports 11a and 12a are tilted and expanded as shown by the solid line. Figure 4A 、 Figure 4B The side supports 11a and 12a are in a flat state as shown by the two-dot chain lines.

[0077] The fourth angle changing unit 24 is controllable by the seat control unit 2 to change the angle of the headrest 13, and includes the above-mentioned column 13a having the headrest 13, a rotating shaft 24a that allows the headrest 13 to rotate relative to the seat back 12, and an actuator (not shown) for rotating and driving the rotating shaft 24a.

[0078] The headrest 13 can change its angle to a flat state by means of the third angle changing portion 24 when the seat back 12 is in a flat state. Figure 3A The angle suitable for supporting the passenger's head as shown becomes Figure 3B The flat state shown.

[0079] The fifth angle changing unit 25 can be controlled by the seat control unit 2 to change the angle of the footrest 14, and includes the above-mentioned frame of the footrest 14, a rotating shaft 25a that allows the footrest 14 to rotate relative to the seat cushion 11, and an actuator (not shown) for rotating and driving the rotating shaft 25a.

[0080] The footrest 14 can change its angle from an angle suitable for manual driving to a flat state by means of the fifth angle changing portion 25. Figure 3A The state of being accommodated in the front end portion of the seat pad 11 shown in FIG. Figure 3B The flat state shown.

[0081] The seat rotation unit 26 is incorporated into the support mechanism and can rotate the seat cushion 11 (and thus the entire seat 10 ) under control of the seat control unit 2 .

[0082] The seat cushion 11 can be rotated by the seat rotating portion 26 from a position suitable for manual driving to a position facing completely rearward.

[0083] The seat slide 27 is capable of sliding the seat cushion 11 (and thus the entire seat 10) in the fore-aft and left-right directions under the control of the seat control unit 2, and is incorporated into the support mechanism. Specifically, the support mechanism supporting the seat cushion 11 is configured to be able to change the position of the seat cushion 11 in the fore-aft and left-right directions.

[0084] The seat cushion 11 can slide from a position suitable for manual driving to a position unsuitable for manual driving via the seat sliding portion 27 .

[0085] The first to fifth angle changing parts 21 to 25 , the seat rotating part 26 , and the seat sliding part 27 can obviously be controlled separately by the seat control part 2 , and the first to fifth angle changing parts 21 to 25 , the seat rotating part 26 , and the seat sliding part 27 can be controlled simultaneously by the seat control part 2 .

[0086] The seat posture detection unit 28 includes multiple sensors (not shown) that detect the positions of various components of the seat 10. The seat control unit 2 calculates and derives the posture, position, and orientation of the seat 10 based on the detection signals from these multiple sensors. Specifically, the seat posture detection unit 28 can determine the current state of the seat 10 after the seat 10 changes its configuration.

[0087] In addition, the driving control unit 1 is as follows Figure 3A As shown in FIG. 1 , the steering wheel H for driving the vehicle V can be moved up and down. The vehicle V includes a movable mechanism for moving the steering wheel H up and down, that is, a steering wheel moving unit 4 (see FIG. 1 ). Figure 1 The steering wheel H can be moved up and down, which not only adjusts the position of the steering wheel H but also makes it possible to increase the space inside the vehicle during autonomous driving.

[0088] [Regarding the switch from manual to autonomous driving]

[0089] The driving control unit 1 performs control based on a forced switching mode, in which the vehicle switches between automatic and manual driving, and an autonomous switching mode, in which the vehicle switches between automatic and manual driving according to the driver's selection. In other words, the switch from manual driving to automatic driving can be forced or autonomous.

[0090] In addition, cases where the switch is forced include, for example, a case where a passenger's health condition becomes abnormal, a case where the timing for switching from manual driving to automatic driving is scheduled in advance, and the like.

[0091] To autonomously switch the vehicle V from manual driving to automatic driving, the passenger uses the selection mechanism to select a desired configuration of the seat 10. The seat control unit 2 controls the operation of the seat configuration changing unit 20 to change the configuration of the seat 10 according to the passenger's selection.

[0092] Each part of the first to fifth angle changing parts 21 to 25 of the seat shape changing part 20 and the seat rotating part 26 operates appropriately so as to take the shape selected by the passenger.

[0093] The options (modes) that a passenger can select are not particularly limited. Figure 3B The seat 10 shown is pre-set in various modes, including a flat configuration.

[0094] Other options include various modes such as a sleep mode suitable for sleeping, an appreciation mode suitable for enjoying animation displayed on a monitor, and a desktop work mode suitable for working or writing.

[0095] In the above sleeping mode, the seat back is 12 Figure 3B The flat state shown is slightly tilted upward.

[0096] Furthermore, in the viewing mode, the entire seat 10 is oriented toward the monitor, and the angles of the seat cushion 11 and the seat back 12 are changed.

[0097] In addition, in the table work mode, the side supports 11a and 12a are opened, and the angle is changed to be suitable for sitting table work. Furthermore, although not shown, in order to make it easier to sit on the seat 10 and work, the table is configured in front of the passenger.

[0098] The table is provided as an auxiliary function unit for assisting the work of the passenger seated on the seat 10, and in this embodiment, is incorporated into the interior near the seat 10. The table can be moved by a table moving unit 5 as a movable mechanism for moving the table.

[0099] In the present embodiment, the table is incorporated into the interior near the seat 10 , but the present invention is not limited thereto and may be incorporated into a storage portion (not shown) formed in the seat 10 itself.

[0100] The auxiliary function part such as the table mentioned above only needs to have a function of assisting the passenger's work. Another example is that a drink support is provided as the auxiliary function part and the drink support is moved to a position that is easily accessible to the passenger's hands in the drinking mode.

[0101] Furthermore, after the seat 10 is changed to the configuration selected by the passenger, the angles of the seat cushion 11 , the seat back 12 , and other parts, the orientation of the seat 10 , and the like can be finely adjusted.

[0102] [Regarding the situation of switching from automatic driving to manual driving]

[0103] As described above, the driving control unit 1 performs control based on the forced switching mode in which the automatic driving and manual driving are switched forcibly, and the autonomous switching mode in which the automatic driving and manual driving are switched by the driver's selection.

[0104] The vehicle V can be switched from automatic driving to manual driving at the discretion of the passenger. That is, the vehicle V can be switched from manual driving to automatic driving when the passenger determines that manual driving is necessary.

[0105] For example, the vehicle V is forced to switch from automatic driving to manual driving when it is moving from a highway to a regular road, or when it is approaching a road with a complex shape. However, when forced to switch from automatic driving to manual driving, for example, if the driver is not seated in the seat 10 or the driver's health condition is abnormal, it is not preferable to force the switch to manual driving.

[0106] Therefore, when the seat 10 is in the automatic driving mode, the driving control unit 1 can control the vehicle V so as not to switch from the automatic driving mode to the manual driving mode.

[0107] The vehicle control system of this embodiment includes a driver state checking unit 30 for checking the driver's state. In addition, the driving control unit 1 can control the vehicle V to switch from automatic driving to manual driving according to the driver's state check result of the driver state checking unit 30.

[0108] If described in more detail, the driver state checking unit 30 is as follows: Figure 1 As shown, a seating state detection unit 31 is provided for detecting whether the driver is seated in the seat 10 .

[0109] The seating state detection unit 31 is incorporated into at least the seat 10 of the driver's seat and is a sensor for detecting whether a passenger is seated. For example, a pressure sensor is used.

[0110] The driving control unit 1 switches the vehicle V from automatic driving to manual driving when the seating state checking unit 31 can confirm that the passenger is seated. Otherwise, the driving control unit 1 does not switch the vehicle V from automatic driving to manual driving and continues automatic driving.

[0111] In addition, in the present embodiment, a pressure sensor is used as the seating state detection unit 31 , but the present invention is not limited thereto, and the seating state of the passenger may be checked by photographing with a camera.

[0112] Furthermore, the driver status checking unit 30 is as follows Figure 1 As shown, a health status checking unit 32 for checking the health status of the driver is provided.

[0113] A sensor for checking the health status of a passenger is incorporated into at least the driver's seat 10 as the health status checking unit 32. As such a sensor, for example, a blood pressure sensor, a pulse sensor, or other biological sensor can be used.

[0114] The driving control unit 1 can switch the vehicle V from automatic driving to manual driving if it can confirm with the help of the health status check unit 32 that there is no problem with the passenger's health status. If there is a problem, the vehicle V will continue to drive automatically without switching from automatic driving to manual driving.

[0115] In this embodiment, the health status checking unit 32 uses a biosensor, but the present invention is not limited thereto and may also use a camera to check the health status of the passenger, for example, by checking pupils or checking that the hands are not on the steering wheel H.

[0116] Furthermore, the combination of sensors and cameras can identify whether a passenger is simply dozing off. In other words, even if the passenger is in good health, the absence of open eyes can be considered drowsy.

[0117] Alternatively, a microphone that collects the driver's voice may be used to detect the driver's consciousness by combining a biosensor with the microphone. That is, the driver may be prompted to speak, but if the driver's voice is not detected, the driver is judged to be unconscious.

[0118] Furthermore, an alcohol sensor can also be used. If the alcohol sensor detects alcohol in the driver's breath, the switch from automatic to manual driving is not performed. Depending on the situation, the vehicle V can be parked in a parking space and the vehicle cannot be started until alcohol is no longer detected in the breath. In this case, starting can also be performed by replacing the driver with a passenger who has not been tested for alcohol.

[0119] Figure 2 This is a flowchart for switching from automatic driving to manual driving.

[0120] As shown in this flowchart, when switching from automatic driving to manual driving, first, the seating state of the passenger in the driver's seat 10 is checked by the seating state checking unit 31 (step S1).

[0121] If the seating of the passenger cannot be confirmed in step S2 , the driving control unit 1 issues a notification to the passenger in the vehicle in step S3 , urging the passenger to sit in the seat 10 .

[0122] If it is confirmed in step S2 that the passenger is seated, the driving control unit 1 checks the health status of the passenger via the health status check unit 32 (step S4 ).

[0123] If it is confirmed in step S5 that there is no problem with the health condition of the passenger, the seat control unit 2 activates a protection mechanism described later to protect the passenger (step S6).

[0124] Next, the vehicle V is switched from automatic driving to manual driving by the driving control unit 1 (step S7). At this time, the driving operation of the vehicle V is performed by the passenger sitting in the driver's seat 10. Thereafter, manual driving is resumed (step S8).

[0125] If it is confirmed in step S5 that there is a problem with the health condition of the passenger, the driving control unit 1 continues the automatic driving (step S9).

[0126] When continuing automatic driving, for safety reasons, the surrounding situation detection unit 3 detects a place where the vehicle V can be parked (step S10). If no place is found, the automatic driving is continued. On the other hand, if a place is found, the vehicle V is parked at the place (step S11).

[0127] When switching from automatic driving to manual driving, press and hold and follow the above process.

[0128] As described above, the vehicle V includes a plurality of seats 10. Furthermore, when the vehicle V is switched from automatic driving to manual driving by the driving control unit 1, the seat control unit 2 can control the operation of the other seats 10 so that the driver's seat 10 and the other seats 10 are changed from the automatic driving mode to the manual driving mode.

[0129] Since it would be unfavorable in terms of the space inside the vehicle if all the seats 10 in the vehicle were to be moved simultaneously, the seat control unit 2 preferentially controls the movement of the driver's seat 10 among the plurality of seats 10 .

[0130] Furthermore, if the passenger is in a relaxed state during automatic driving and the seat 10 is also in a configuration suitable for the passenger's relaxed state, it is also conceivable that the seat 10 is not returned to a position suitable for manual driving until manual driving is started.

[0131] Therefore, when the seat 10 is in the automatic driving state and the seat 10 is not returned to the position suitable for manual driving until the time when manual driving should be started, the driving control unit 1 can control the vehicle V not to switch from automatic driving to manual driving.

[0132] Furthermore, to prevent the seat 10 from not returning to a position suitable for manual driving until manual driving is started, the seat control unit 2 controls the movement amount of the seat 10 when changing from the manual driving mode to the automatic driving mode.

[0133] Specifically, when switching from manual to automatic driving, for example, if the seat 10 is facing straight back and flat, it takes time to return to a position suitable for manual driving, and there is a risk that the timing for starting manual driving will not be met. Therefore, by limiting the amount of movement of the seat 10 when switching from manual driving to automatic driving, it is possible to prevent the situation where the timing for starting manual driving is missed.

[0134] Furthermore, the seat control unit 2 controls the movement speed when changing the configuration of the seat 10. Specifically, the control of the seat control unit 2 can make the movement speed of the seat 10 when changing from the configuration in automatic driving to the configuration in manual driving, or when switching from the configuration in manual driving to the configuration in automatic driving faster or slower.

[0135] In this way, when switching from manual to automatic driving, it is possible to prevent the situation where the change in the shape of the seat 10 is not in time for the start of manual driving. In addition, the speed of the movement when changing the shape of the seat 10 can be changed in other situations, not only when switching from manual to automatic driving.

[0136] Furthermore, the seat control unit 2 controls the speed of the seat 10's movement when switching from the automatic driving mode to the manual driving mode, thereby extending the time required. Specifically, the seat control unit 2 controls the seat 10's movement to slow down, ensuring that the passenger, in a relaxed state, has sufficient time to face manual driving.

[0137] In this way, the movement of the seat 10 when changing the shape is slowed down, which can be coordinated with the timing of switching from automatic driving to manual driving, so that the passenger can face the manual driving with a calm mind.

[0138] In addition, as described above, the driving control unit 1 is controlled based on a forced replacement mode in which automatic driving and manual driving are forcibly switched, and an autonomous replacement mode in which automatic driving and manual driving are switched by the driver's selection, and the seat control unit 2 controls the speed of movement of the seat 10 in the forced replacement mode and the autonomous replacement mode, respectively.

[0139] This prevents the situation in which the change in the shape of the seat 10 does not catch up with the timing of starting manual driving when switching from manual driving to automatic driving. Furthermore, the seat 10 can be moved at a speed suitable for each mode.

[0140] As described above, by switching the seat 10 from the automatic driving mode to the manual driving mode, the vehicle V can be switched from the automatic driving mode to the manual driving mode.

[0141] The timing of switching from automated to manual driving is the moment when control of vehicle V's operation is transferred from a computer to a human, so ensuring passenger safety is crucial. Furthermore, ensuring the safety of passengers during automated driving is crucial, not just when switching from automated to manual driving. The following describes a passenger protection system designed to ensure passenger safety.

[0142] [About Passenger Protection Systems]

[0143] Seat 10 Figure 1 、 Figures 5A to 7 As shown, the seat 10 includes a protection mechanism for protecting a passenger seated on the seat 10 when the passenger needs to be protected, and a protection mechanism control unit for controlling the operation of the protection mechanism.

[0144] Furthermore, the protection mechanism control unit controls the operation of the protection mechanism incorporated in the seat 10 , and therefore the seat control unit 2 also serves as the protection mechanism control unit.

[0145] Protection agencies such as Figure 5A 、 Figure 5B and Figure 6 As shown, the seat 10 includes surrounding mechanisms 23 , 41 , 42 , and 43 for surrounding and protecting a passenger seated on the seat 10 .

[0146] The enclosing mechanisms 23, 41, 42, 43 have a plurality of modes with different degrees of protection depending on the situation in which the occupants need to be protected. In this embodiment, the protection mechanism includes a first enclosing mechanism 23, a second enclosing mechanism 41, a third enclosing mechanism 42, and a fourth enclosing mechanism 43.

[0147] The first surrounding mechanism 23 is the third angle changing portion 23 that changes the angle of the side support member 12a of the seat back 12. Figure 5A As shown, the side support members 12a are angled inwardly and configured to surround the body of the passenger.

[0148] That is, the first surrounding mechanism 23 includes a movable mechanism for moving the padding member constituting the side support member 12 a , and the movement of the movable mechanism is controlled by the seat control unit 2 .

[0149] According to such a first enclosing mechanism 23 , the body of the passenger can be enclosed via the side supports 12 a of the seat back 12 , so that the passenger can be held and protected.

[0150] In the present embodiment, the body of the passenger is surrounded by the side supports 12 a of the seat back 12 . However, in cooperation therewith, the buttocks of the passenger may be surrounded by the side supports 11 a of the seat pad 11 .

[0151] The second surrounding mechanism 41 changes the angle of the left and right side ends 13b of the headrest 13, as shown in FIG. Figure 5B As shown, the angles of the two side ends 13b are changed inwards to form a structure that surrounds the passenger's head.

[0152] That is, the second surrounding mechanism 41 includes a movable mechanism for moving padding members forming both side end portions 13 b of the headrest 13 , and the movement of the movable mechanism is controlled by the seat control unit 2 .

[0153] According to such a second surrounding mechanism 41 , the passenger's head can be surrounded by the both side end portions 13 b of the headrest 13 , thereby protecting the passenger.

[0154] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the second enclosing mechanism 41 angles the side ends 13b of the headrest 13 inward to enclose the passenger's head, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, side support members that protrude (or bulge) forwardly, provided at the side ends of the headrest 13 without obstructing the field of vision, may also serve as the second enclosing mechanism 41.

[0155] The third encircling mechanism 42 is as follows Figure 1 and Figure 6 As shown, the side support 12 a provided on the seat back 12 includes an airbag 42 a that surrounds the passenger's body toward the front when in operation, and an airbag operating portion 42 b that operates the airbag 42 a in response to control of the seat control unit 2 .

[0156] The third surrounding mechanism 42 provides a higher degree of protection than the first surrounding mechanism 23 using the side supports 12 a in the same manner, and is activated when a collision of the vehicle V is anticipated or occurs.

[0157] The airbag 42a is curved and formed so as to cover from the side support 12a of the seat back 12 to the front surface of the body of the passenger.

[0158] According to such a third surrounding mechanism 42 , the body of the passenger can be surrounded in a wide area by the airbag 42 a that is activated when or in the event of a collision of the vehicle V, thereby more reliably protecting the passenger.

[0159] The fourth surrounding mechanism 43 is provided at the side end portion 13 b of the headrest 13 and includes an airbag 43 a that surrounds the passenger's head when in operation, and an airbag operating unit 43 b that activates the airbag in response to control of the seat control unit 2 .

[0160] The fourth surrounding mechanism 43 provides a higher degree of protection than the second surrounding mechanism 41 which similarly utilizes the headrest 13 , and is assumed to be activated during or in the event of a collision of the vehicle V.

[0161] The airbags 43 a are formed so as to protrude forward from both side ends of the headrest 13 .

[0162] According to such a fourth surrounding mechanism 43 , the head of the passenger can be surrounded in a wide area by the airbag 43 a that is activated when a collision of the vehicle V is expected or occurs, so the passenger can be protected more reliably.

[0163] Figure 7 Indicates examples of other protection agencies, Figure 7 The protection mechanism includes a seat rotating mechanism that rotates the seat 10 in accordance with the direction of an impact load applied from the outside to the vehicle V. The seat rotating mechanism is constituted by the seat rotating portion 26 described above.

[0164] The seat 10 of this embodiment is not limited to the seat 10 of this embodiment. Vehicle seats equipped with a seat cushion and a seat back also allow passengers to effectively stand against frontal impact loads. Therefore, the seat 10 is rotated by the seat rotation mechanism, i.e., the seat rotation unit 26, in accordance with the direction of the impact load applied from the outside to the vehicle V. This allows passengers seated in the seat 10 to effectively stand against the impact load, effectively resisting the impact load.

[0165] Furthermore, in consideration of passenger protection, the seat 10 is preferably rotated in a manner completely consistent with the direction of the impact load. However, if time is insufficient, the seat 10 is slightly rotated.

[0166] In the present embodiment, only the seat rotating portion 26 is used as the seat rotating mechanism. However, the seat sliding portion 27 may be used when the seat 10 needs to be slid in consideration of the positional relationship with the vehicle interior space and other seats 10 .

[0167] Figures 5A to 7 The protection mechanism shown is controlled by the protection mechanism control unit, that is, the seat control unit 2. As situations where the passenger needs to be protected, various examples are given below.

[0168] The seat control unit 2 , which is a protection mechanism control unit, controls the operation of at least one of the various protection mechanisms described above when the vehicle V is switched from automatic driving to manual driving by the driving control unit 1 .

[0169] As described above, when switching from automatic driving to manual driving, it is a time to transfer the driving authority of the vehicle V from the computer to the human, and therefore it is listed as a situation that requires protecting the passengers.

[0170] In addition, such a protection mechanism when switching from automatic driving to manual driving is preferably Figure 5A 、 Figure 5B The protection mechanism (first surrounding mechanism 23, second surrounding mechanism 41) shown above is designed so as not to hinder manual driving by the passenger.

[0171] The seat control unit 2 , which is a protection mechanism control unit, controls the operation of at least one of the various protection mechanisms described above when the driving control unit 1 detects an abnormality in the automatic driving system.

[0172] The situation in which the automatic driving system is checked for abnormality varies depending on the type of abnormality being checked and how the vehicle V travels. Therefore, an appropriate protection mechanism is selected according to the abnormality being checked.

[0173] For example, if the automatic driving system is abnormal and the system is switched from automatic driving to manual driving, the following options are selected: Figure 5A 、 Figure 5B The protection mechanism shown (the first encircling mechanism 23, the second encircling mechanism 41). In addition, if the abnormality of the automatic driving system makes it impossible to operate the vehicle V, select Figure 6 The protection mechanism (the third enclosing mechanism 42 and the fourth enclosing mechanism 43) shown in FIG. 4 is a protection mechanism. That is, the enclosing mechanism has a plurality of modes with different degrees of protection according to the situation in which the passenger needs to be protected, so the enclosing mechanism corresponding to the situation is selected.

[0174] The seat control unit 2 , which is a protection mechanism control unit, controls the operation of at least one of the various protection mechanisms described above, according to the result of the driver's condition checked by the health condition checking unit 32 of the driver condition checking unit 30 .

[0175] As described above, the health status check unit 32 checks the health status of the driver and selects a corresponding protection mechanism according to the driver's health status. In particular, it is desirable to select a protection mechanism according to the driver's awareness or to use a combination of several protection mechanisms.

[0176] The seat control unit 2 , which is a protection mechanism control unit, controls the operation of at least one of the various protection mechanisms described above when the vehicle V in automatic driving collides with an obstacle S or the like.

[0177] For example, when the vehicle V collides with an obstacle S or the like, an impact load is applied to the vehicle V from the outside, and therefore a situation in which the passengers need to be included is presented.

[0178] As a protection mechanism when the vehicle V collides with an obstacle S, etc., a Figure 6 The protection mechanism shown (the third enclosing mechanism 42, the fourth enclosing mechanism 43) or Figure 7The protection mechanism shown (seat rotating portion 26). Or select both.

[0179] The seat control unit 2 , which is a protection mechanism control unit, controls the operation of at least one of the various protection mechanisms described above when the vehicle V in automatic driving performs an action to avoid an obstacle S or the like.

[0180] When the vehicle V performs an action to avoid an obstacle S, for example, there is a situation where the vehicle V makes a sharp turn or brakes suddenly and therefore needs to protect the passengers.

[0181] It is preferable that the rotation of the vehicle V be used as a protection mechanism when the vehicle V is performing an action of avoiding an obstacle S or the like. Figure 5A 、 Figure 5B The protective mechanism (the first enclosing mechanism 23, the second enclosing mechanism 41) shown in the figure resists the centrifugal force during sharp turns, or selects Figure 6 The protection mechanism (third surrounding mechanism 42) shown here suppresses movement forward of the passenger.

[0182] Furthermore, the passenger protection system (vehicle control system) includes a surrounding situation detection unit 3 that detects the surrounding conditions of the vehicle V as described above. The presence of obstacles S and the like can be detected by the surrounding situation detection unit 3. Therefore, the various protection mechanisms described above are selected based on the information obtained from the surrounding situation detection unit 3.

[0183] By incorporating the passenger protection system configured as described above into the vehicle V, the passenger seated in the seat 10 can be protected in a situation where protection is required.

[0184] As described above, according to this embodiment, when the seat 10 is in the automatic driving mode, the driving control unit 1 can control the vehicle V so as not to switch from automatic driving to manual driving. Therefore, before the seat 10 is changed from the automatic driving mode to the manual driving mode, the vehicle V can be prevented from switching from automatic driving to manual driving. Therefore, safety can be improved when switching from automatic driving to manual driving.

[0185] Furthermore, the time required to switch from automatic driving to manual driving can be taken into consideration, and the amount of movement of the seat 10 when changing from the manual driving configuration to the automatic driving configuration can be limited accordingly. This allows the timing of the switch from automatic driving to manual driving to coincide with the timing of the change of the seat 10 from the automatic driving configuration to the manual driving configuration. Consequently, safety during the switch from automatic driving to manual driving can be improved.

[0186] In addition, the seat control unit 2 controls the movement speed when changing the shape of the seat 10, so that the movement when changing the shape of the seat 10 can be coordinated with the timing of switching between automatic driving and manual driving, which can improve the safety when switching between automatic driving and manual driving.

[0187] Furthermore, the movement of the seat 10 can be slowed down when changing the configuration, and the timing of switching from automatic driving to manual driving can be coordinated, so that passengers can face manual driving with ease. Therefore, safety can be improved when switching from automatic driving to manual driving.

[0188] Furthermore, the seat control unit 2 controls the movement speed of the seat 10 in the forced replacement mode and the autonomous replacement mode respectively, so that the seat 10 can be moved at a speed suitable for each mode, thereby improving safety when switching from automatic driving to manual driving.

[0189] In addition, if the inspection result of the driver's status does not indicate a desire to switch from automatic driving to manual driving, the vehicle V can be controlled without switching from automatic driving to manual driving, thereby improving safety when switching from automatic driving to manual driving.

[0190] In addition, the seating status detection unit 31 of the driver status detection unit 30 detects whether the driver is sitting in the seat 10, so it can prevent the vehicle from switching from automatic driving to manual driving when the driver is not sitting in the seat 10 (driver's seat), thereby improving safety when switching from automatic driving to manual driving.

[0191] In addition, the health status checking unit 32 of the driver status checking unit 30 checks the driver's health status, so it is possible to prevent the driver from switching from automatic driving to manual driving when the driver is in a health state that makes him unable to drive, thereby improving safety when switching from automatic driving to manual driving.

[0192] In addition, when the vehicle V switches from automatic driving to manual driving with the help of the driving control unit 1, the seat control unit 2 can control the action in such a way that the other seats 10 are also changed from the automatic driving mode to the manual driving mode together with the driver's seat 10, so that multiple seats 10 can be changed from the automatic driving mode to the manual driving mode together.

[0193] In addition, the seat control unit 2 prioritizes the movement of the driver's seat 10 among the multiple seats 10, so the driver's seat 10 can be changed to the manual driving mode earlier than other seats 10, thereby improving safety when switching from automatic driving to manual driving.

[0194] Furthermore, the seat 10 includes a protection mechanism for protecting the occupant when a situation requires protection, and a protection mechanism control unit (seat control unit 2) for controlling the operation of the protection mechanism. Therefore, when a situation requires protection of the occupant seated in the seat 10, the protection mechanism control unit controls the operation of the protection mechanism to protect the occupant. This ensures the safety of the occupant when the seat 10 is returned from an automatic driving configuration to a configuration suitable for manual driving.

[0195] Furthermore, regardless of whether or not the situation is highly urgent, the safety of the passengers can always be ensured by the protection mechanism when the seat 10 is returned from the automatic driving mode to the mode suitable for manual driving.

[0196] Furthermore, if an abnormality occurs in the automatic driving system, and the seat 10 is returned from the automatic driving mode to the mode suitable for manual driving, the safety of the passengers can be ensured by the protection mechanism.

[0197] Furthermore, the safety of the passengers can be ensured by the protection mechanism according to the result of the driver's state check by the driver state check unit 30 .

[0198] Furthermore, when the autonomously driven vehicle V collides with an obstacle S, etc., the safety of the passengers can be ensured by means of the protection mechanism.

[0199] Furthermore, when the vehicle V in autonomous driving performs actions such as avoiding obstacles, the safety of passengers can be ensured by means of the protection mechanism.

[0200] Furthermore, if the presence of obstacles S and the like in the surroundings of the vehicle V is checked by the surroundings checking unit 3, passengers can be protected earlier by the protection mechanism, thereby contributing to ensuring the safety of the passengers.

[0201] Furthermore, since the passengers can be surrounded and protected by the surrounding mechanisms 23 , 41 , 42 , and 43 included in the protection mechanism, it is easier to ensure the safety of the passengers than with a protection mechanism that does not surround the passengers.

[0202] Furthermore, the surrounding mechanisms 23 , 41 , 42 , and 43 have a plurality of modes with different degrees of protection according to situations requiring passenger protection, so that passengers can be protected in a manner appropriate to the situation requiring passenger protection, thereby contributing to ensuring passenger safety.

[0203] Furthermore, the protection mechanism includes the seat rotating portion 26 that rotates the seat 10 in accordance with the direction of the impact load applied from the outside to the vehicle V. Therefore, the seat 10 can be rotated in a direction that easily withstands the impact load to protect the occupants.

[0204] In addition, the multiple forms of the seat 10 include a form suitable for manual driving and a form not suitable for manual driving, so in the form suitable for manual driving, the safety of the passengers driving the vehicle V can be improved, and in the form not suitable for manual driving, the passengers can sit in any posture, which can improve comfort.

[0205] Furthermore, the position of the seat 10 that is not suitable for manual driving is the position of the seat 10 changed by the seat control unit 2 , and is therefore suitable for automatic driving, thereby improving the comfort during automatic driving.

[0206] Furthermore, the seat 10 can be changed into various modes according to the passenger's selection, thereby improving the comfort during autonomous driving.

[0207] Furthermore, the seat cushion 11 and the seat back 12 can be changed in angle until they are flat by the first angle changing portion 21 and the second angle changing portion 22 , so the seat 10 can be used like a bed, thereby improving comfort during autonomous driving.

[0208] Furthermore, the side supports 11a and 12a of the seat cushion 11 and seat back 12 can be adjusted in angle until they are flattened by the third angle-adjusting portion 23. This allows passengers to feel relaxed and improves comfort during autonomous driving. Furthermore, a seating posture that is not held by the side supports 11a and 12a can be achieved, facilitating tasks other than driving.

[0209] Furthermore, the headrest 13 can change its angle by the fourth angle changing portion 24 until it becomes flat with respect to the front surface of the seat back 12 , thereby adjusting the angle of the passenger's head and contributing to improved comfort during autonomous driving.

[0210] Furthermore, the footrest 14 can change its angle by the fifth angle changing portion 25 until it becomes flat with respect to the seat surface of the seat cushion 11 , so the user can sit with their legs extended, thereby improving the comfort during autonomous driving.

[0211] Furthermore, the first to fifth angle-changing units 21 to 25 can be controlled simultaneously by the seat control unit 2, allowing the seat 10 to be changed into various modes, or to be instantly transformed from a position suitable for manual driving to a position similar to a bed. This can contribute to improved comfort during automated driving.

[0212] Furthermore, when the seat 10 is in a form suitable for manual driving, it has an auxiliary function section that assists the work of a passenger seated in the seat 10 , so that it can be utilized in the work performed by the passenger, etc., and can contribute to improving the comfort during autonomous driving.

[0213] Furthermore, since the seat 10 that has been changed to a configuration suitable for manual driving can be adjusted by manual operation by the passenger, the vehicle V can be driven in an optimal posture suitable for manual driving, thereby achieving improved safety.

[0214] Industrial applicability

[0215] The vehicle control system of the present invention can improve vehicle driving safety and therefore has high industrial applicability.

[0216] Description of Reference Numerals

[0217] 1 Driving control unit

[0218] 2 Seat control unit (protection mechanism control unit)

[0219] 3. Peripheral Condition Inspection Department

[0220] 10 seats

[0221] 11 Seat Cushion

[0222] 11a Side support

[0223] 12 Seat Back

[0224] 12a Side support

[0225] 13 Headrest

[0226] 13a Side end

[0227] 14 Footrest

[0228] 20 Seat shape change unit

[0229] 21 1st angle changing unit

[0230] 22 Second angle changing unit

[0231] 22a Rotation axis

[0232] 23. Third angle changing unit

[0233] 24 4th angle changing unit

[0234] 24a Rotation axis

[0235] 25 5th angle changing unit

[0236] 25a Rotation axis

[0237] 26 Seat rotation part

[0238] 27 Seat slide

[0239] 28 Seat posture detection unit

[0240] 30 Driver Status Check Department

[0241] 31 Seating Status Inspection Department

[0242] 32 Health Check Department

[0243] 40 Protection Agency

[0244] 41 Second Encirclement Agency

[0245] 42 The Third Encirclement Agency

[0246] 42a Airbag

[0247] 42b Airbag working part

[0248] 43 The 4th Encirclement Agency

[0249] 43a Airbag

[0250] 43b Airbag working part.

Claims

1. A vehicle control system, characterized in that: Equipped with driving control unit, seat, seat control unit, The driving control unit switches the vehicle between automatic and manual driving. The aforementioned seats can be changed into different configurations in automatic driving and manual driving. The seat control unit controls the movement of the seat when changing its shape. When the seat is in the automatic driving mode, the driving control unit can control the vehicle so as not to switch from the automatic driving mode to the manual driving mode. The seat control unit also serves as a protection mechanism control unit that controls the operation of a protection mechanism for protecting the passenger when the passenger sitting in the seat needs to be protected. The protection mechanism controlled by the aforementioned seat control unit is, have: The first enclosing mechanism includes a first movable mechanism for moving a first cushion member constituting a side support member, thereby changing the angle of the side support member inward so as to enclose the body of the passenger. The second enclosing mechanism includes a second movable mechanism for moving the second cushion members constituting both side ends of the headrest, thereby changing the angles of the both side ends inwards so as to enclose the passenger's head. The seat control unit selects and controls the operation of at least one of the protection mechanisms of the first surrounding mechanism and the second surrounding mechanism when the driving control unit switches the vehicle from automatic driving to manual driving.

2. The vehicle control system according to claim 1, wherein: The seat control unit controls a movement amount of the seat when the seat changes from a manual driving mode to an automatic driving mode.

3. The vehicle control system according to claim 1, wherein: The seat control unit controls a movement speed of the seat when the shape of the seat is changed.

4. The vehicle control system according to claim 3, wherein: The seat control unit controls the speed of movement of the seat when the seat changes from the automatic driving mode to the manual driving mode, thereby extending the required time.

5. The vehicle control system according to claim 3, wherein: The driving control unit controls the vehicle based on a forced switching mode in which automatic driving and manual driving are forced to switch, and an autonomous switching mode in which automatic driving and manual driving are switched according to the driver's selection. The seat control unit controls the speed of movement of the seat in the forced switching mode and the autonomous switching mode.

6. The vehicle control system according to claim 1, wherein: A driver state checking unit for checking the driver's state is provided, The driving control unit can control whether to switch from automatic driving to manual driving of the vehicle based on a result of checking the driver's state by the driver's state checking unit.

7. The vehicle control system according to claim 6, wherein: The driver state checking unit checks whether the driver is sitting in the seat.

8. The vehicle control system according to claim 6, wherein: The driver status checking unit checks the health status of the driver.

9. The vehicle control system according to claim 1, wherein: The vehicle is provided with a plurality of seats. The seat control unit is configured to control the driver's seat and the non-driver's seat among the plurality of seats to change from the automatic driving state to the manual driving state when the driving control unit switches from the automatic driving state to the manual driving state.

10. The vehicle control system according to claim 9, wherein: The seat control unit preferentially controls the movement of the driver's seat among the plurality of seats.

11. The vehicle control system according to claim 1, wherein: The protection mechanism is arranged on the seat.

12. The vehicle control system according to claim 1, wherein: have: The aforementioned driving control unit that switches the vehicle between automatic driving and manual driving, The aforementioned seat can be changed into multiple forms, the seat control unit for controlling the movement of the seat when changing the shape; The plurality of seat configurations include a configuration suitable for manual driving and a configuration unsuitable for manual driving.

13. The vehicle control system according to claim 1, wherein: The protection mechanism controlled by the seat control unit includes a third surrounding mechanism, the third surrounding mechanism includes an airbag and an airbag operating unit, and is activated when the vehicle collides or when a collision is expected. The airbag is curved so as to cover the front surface of the passenger's body from the side support of the seat back. The airbag actuating unit actuates the airbag in response to control by the seat control unit.

14. The vehicle control system according to claim 1, wherein: The protection mechanism controlled by the seat control unit includes a fourth surrounding mechanism, the fourth surrounding mechanism including an airbag and an airbag operating unit, which is activated when the vehicle collides or when a collision is expected. The airbag is arranged at the side end of the headrest and surrounds the passenger's head when in operation. The airbag actuating unit actuates the airbag in response to control by the seat control unit. The seat control unit selects at least one of the protection mechanisms and controls the operation thereof.

15. The vehicle control system according to claim 1, wherein: The seat comprises a seat cushion for supporting the buttocks of a passenger, a seat back having a lower end supported by the seat cushion, a headrest provided at an upper end of the seat back for supporting the head of the passenger, and a footrest provided at a front end of the seat cushion for supporting the feet of the passenger. A frame serving as a framework for the seat pad and the seat back is provided.

16. The vehicle control system according to claim 1, wherein: A seat rotation mechanism is provided for rotating the seat in accordance with the direction of an impact load applied from the outside to the vehicle. The aforementioned seat rotation mechanism is composed of a seat rotation part. The seat control unit also serves as a protection control unit that controls the rotational movement of the seat rotation unit.

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