Vehicle display control device, vehicle display control method, and computer program product including program

Abstract

The invention provides a display control device for a vehicle, a display control method for a vehicle, and a computer program product including a program. The vehicle display control device displays predetermined information in a display area around a driver's seat when at least one of acceleration / deceleration and steering is operated, and includes: an assistance reason display unit configured to display an assistance reason on the driver's seat; an image display unit that displays, in the display region, an image indicating a reason for a driving assistance function to operate; and a mark display unit that displays, in the vicinity of the image, a mark corresponding to the type of the travel assistance function.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a display control device for a vehicle, a display control method for a vehicle, and a computer program product including the program. Background Art

[0002] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2021-133777 discloses a display control unit that, when a deceleration target is detected, displays an image for notifying the detected deceleration target in a deceleration display area of ​​a display in a vehicle cabin.

[0003] However, in the device described in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2021-133777, since traffic signals, vehicles, etc. are only displayed on the display, there is a case where the occupant cannot understand the reason why the driving assistance function is operating by just glancing at the display. Summary of the invention

[0004] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a vehicle display control device, a vehicle display control method, and a computer program product including a program that enable an occupant to intuitively understand the reason why a driving assistance function has been operated.

[0005] The first mode of the vehicle display control device displays predetermined information in a display area around the driver's seat when at least one of the driving assistance functions of acceleration, deceleration and steering is operating, and comprises: an assistance reason display unit, which displays an image indicating the reason why the driving assistance function is operating in the display area; and a mark display unit, which displays a mark corresponding to the type of driving assistance function near the image.

[0006] In the vehicle display control device of the first embodiment, when at least one of the driving assist functions of acceleration, deceleration and steering is operated, predetermined information is displayed in the display area around the driver's seat. Specifically, the assistance reason display unit displays an image indicating the reason why the driving assist function is operated in the display area. Thus, the driver can understand the reason why the driving assist function is operated by visually confirming the image displayed in the display area.

[0007] Furthermore, the symbol display unit displays a symbol corresponding to the type of the driving assistance function near the image, so that the driver can understand the type of the driving assistance function just by looking at the symbol.

[0008] A vehicle display control device according to a second aspect is the device according to the first aspect, wherein the mark display unit displays a graphic surrounding the image as the mark, and displays a mark having a different shape depending on the type of driving assistance function.

[0009] In the vehicle display control device of the second aspect, since the symbol display unit surrounds the image with graphics of different shapes depending on the type of driving assistance function, the occupant can understand the type of driving assistance function simply by observing the shape of the graphics.

[0010] A vehicle display control device according to a third aspect is the device according to the first aspect, wherein the mark display unit displays different marks depending on whether acceleration of the vehicle is assisted, deceleration of the vehicle is assisted, or steering of the vehicle is assisted.

[0011] In the vehicle display control device of the third aspect, the occupant can understand whether acceleration is assisted, deceleration is assisted, or steering is assisted simply by observing the mark.

[0012] A vehicle display control device according to a fourth aspect is the device according to the first aspect, wherein the symbol display unit displays different symbols depending on a manual driving mode in which the driver performs all operations and an automatic driving mode in which at least a part of the operations are automatically performed.

[0013] In the vehicle display control device of the fourth aspect, different symbols are displayed depending on the manual driving mode and the automatic driving mode, so that it is possible to understand in which driving mode the driving support function is operating.

[0014] A fifth aspect of the vehicle display control device is that, in the first aspect, the mark display unit displays the mark at different positions depending on a manual driving mode in which the driver performs all operations and an automatic driving mode in which at least a part of the operations are automatically performed.

[0015] In the vehicle display control device of the fifth aspect, the occupant can understand in which driving mode the driving assist function is operating simply by checking the position of the mark.

[0016] The sixth mode of the display control device for a vehicle is that, in the first mode, the auxiliary reason display unit displays different images respectively at least when the inter-vehicle distance with the preceding vehicle becomes less than a predetermined value, when traveling on a curve, when the distance to a traffic signal that is lit with a stop light color becomes less than a predetermined value, and when the distance to a temporary stop position becomes less than a predetermined value.

[0017] In the sixth mode of the vehicle display control device, the occupant can understand the reason why the driving assistance function is operating by just looking at the image, whether the vehicle-to-vehicle distance with the preceding vehicle is below a predetermined value, when driving on a curve, when the distance to a traffic signal that is lit with a stop light color is below a predetermined value, or when the distance to a temporary stop position is below a predetermined value.

[0018] The seventh mode of the vehicle display control method is to display predetermined information in a display area around the driver's seat when at least one of the driving assistance functions among acceleration, deceleration and steering is operated through a processor, wherein the following processing is performed, namely: an image indicating the reason why the driving assistance function is operated is displayed in the display area; and a mark corresponding to the type of driving assistance function is displayed near the image.

[0019] The eighth embodiment of a computer program product containing a program is a computer program product containing a program that causes a computer to execute processing for displaying predetermined information in a display area around a driver's seat when at least one driving assistance function among acceleration, deceleration and steering is operated, wherein the program causes the computer to execute the following processing, namely: displaying an image indicating the reason why the driving assistance function is operated in the display area; and displaying a mark corresponding to the type of driving assistance function near the image.

[0020] As described above, according to the vehicle display control device, vehicle display control method, and computer program product including the program according to the present disclosure, the occupant can intuitively understand the reason why the driving assistance function is operating. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0021] Exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail based on the following drawings, in which:

[0022] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram showing the front part of the cabin of a vehicle to which the vehicle display control device according to the embodiment is applied, as viewed from the rear side of the vehicle.

[0023] Figure 2 It is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration of a vehicle display control device according to an embodiment.

[0024] Figure 3 It is a block diagram showing a functional structure of a vehicle display control device according to an embodiment.

[0025] Figure 41 is a diagram showing a display example of the display area in the embodiment, and shows a state in which the deceleration assist function is operating during manual driving.

[0026] Figure 5 1 is a diagram showing a display example of the display area in the embodiment, and shows a state in which the deceleration assist function is operating during manual driving.

[0027] Figure 6 1 is a diagram showing a display example of the display area in the embodiment, and shows a state in which the deceleration assist function is operating during manual driving.

[0028] Figure 7 1 is a diagram showing a display example of the display area in the embodiment, and shows a state in which the deceleration assist function is operating during manual driving.

[0029] Figure 8 It is a diagram showing a display example of the display area in the embodiment, and shows a state in which the assist function for deceleration during automatic driving is operating.

[0030] Fig. 9 It is a diagram showing a display example of the display area in the embodiment, and shows a state in which the assist function for deceleration during automatic driving is operating.

[0031] Fig.10 It is a diagram showing a display example of the display area in the embodiment, and shows a state in which the assist function for deceleration during automatic driving is operating.

[0032] Fig.11 It is a diagram showing a display example of the display area in the embodiment, and shows a state in which the assist function for deceleration during automatic driving is operating.

[0033] Fig.12 This is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of display processing in the embodiment.

[0034] Fig.13 It is a diagram showing a display example of the display area in the first modification example, and shows a state in which the assist function for deceleration during automatic driving is operating.

[0035] Fig.14 1 is a diagram showing a display example of the display area in the second modification example, and shows a state in which the assist function for deceleration during automatic driving is operating. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0036] A vehicle display control system 10 including a vehicle display control device 28 according to an embodiment will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Figure 1The arrow UP in FIG. 1 indicates the upper side in the vehicle vertical direction, and the arrow RH indicates the right side in the vehicle width direction. The up-down direction and the left-right direction in the following description refer to the up-down direction in the vehicle vertical direction and the left-right direction in the vehicle width direction, respectively.

[0037] like Figure 1 As shown, a dashboard 14 is provided at the front part of the vehicle cabin in the vehicle 12. The dashboard 14 extends in the vehicle width direction, and a steering wheel 16 is provided at the vehicle right side of the dashboard 14. That is, in the present embodiment, as an example, a right-hand drive vehicle in which the steering wheel 16 is provided on the right side is used, and the driver's seat is provided at the right side of the vehicle. In addition, it is not limited to this, and it can also be applied to a vehicle in which the driver's seat is provided at the left side of the vehicle.

[0038] A windshield 18 is provided at the front end portion of the instrument panel 14. The windshield 18 extends in the vehicle up-down direction and the vehicle width direction, and divides the vehicle cabin interior and the vehicle cabin exterior.

[0039] The vehicle right end of the windshield 18 is fixed to a front pillar 20 on the right side of the vehicle. The front pillar 20 extends in the vehicle up-down direction, and the windshield 18 is fixed to the vehicle width direction inner end of the front pillar 20. In addition, the front end of the front side window glass 22 is fixed to the vehicle width direction outer end of the front pillar 20. In addition, the vehicle left end of the windshield 18 is fixed to a front pillar on the left side of the vehicle (not shown).

[0040] Here, a first display unit 24 having a display area V1 of an image is provided on the instrument panel 14. The first display unit 24 is composed of an instrument display provided in front of the driver's seat on the right side of the instrument panel 14. The first display unit 24 is connected to various instrument devices mounted on the vehicle 12, and is provided at a position that will enter the field of vision when the driver directs his / her sight toward the front of the vehicle.

[0041] The instrument panel 14 is provided with a second display unit 25 having a display area V2 for an image. The second display unit 25 is composed of a center display arranged at the center of the instrument panel 14 in the vehicle width direction.

[0042] A third display unit 26 having a display area V3 of an image is provided on the windshield 18. The third display unit 26 is set on the upper side of the vehicle with respect to the first display unit 24, and is displayed by a head-up display device 46 (see FIG. Figure 2Specifically, a head-up display device 46 capable of projecting an image is provided at the vehicle front side of the instrument panel 14, and the head-up display device 46 is configured to project an image onto the third display unit 26 of the windshield 18. That is, the third display unit 26 is provided as a part of the windshield 18, and the windshield 18 is provided as the projection surface of the head-up display device 46.

[0043] Here, a vehicle display control device 28 constituting the vehicle display control system 10 is provided in the vehicle 12. The vehicle display control device 28 of the present embodiment is, for example, an ECU (Electronic Control Unit) that implements various controls. Furthermore, the vehicle display control device 28 involved in the present embodiment is configured to display predetermined information in at least one of the display area V1, the display area V2, and the display area V3 around the driver's seat when at least one of the driving assist functions of acceleration, deceleration, and steering is operated.

[0044] (Hardware Configuration of Vehicle Display Control Device 28)

[0045] like Figure 2 As shown, the vehicle display control device 28 is configured to include a CPU (Central Processing Unit: processor) 30, a ROM (Read Only Memory: read-only memory) 32, a RAM (Random Access Memory: random access memory) 34, a storage 36, a communication interface (communication I / F) 38, and an input / output interface (input / output I / F) 40. The respective components are connected together via an internal bus 42 so as to be able to communicate with each other.

[0046] The CPU 30 is a central processing unit that executes various programs or controls various parts. That is, the CPU 30 reads the program from the ROM 32 or the storage 36 and executes the program using the RAM 34 as a work area. In addition, the CPU 30 implements the control of the above-mentioned various structures and various calculation processes according to the program recorded in the ROM 32 or the storage 36.

[0047] ROM32 stores various programs and various data. RAM34 temporarily stores programs or data as a work area. Storage 36 is a non-temporary recording medium composed of HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or SSD (Solid State Drive) and stores various programs including an operating system and various data. In this embodiment, a display program for implementing display processing, etc. is stored in ROM32 or storage 36.

[0048] The communication interface 38 is an interface for enabling the vehicle display control device 28 to communicate with a server and other devices, and uses, for example, CAN (Controller Area Network), Ethernet (registered trademark), LTE (Long Term Evolution), FDDI (Fiber Distributed Data Interface), Wi-Fi (registered trademark) and other standards.

[0049] The sight line detection sensor 44, the first display unit 24, the second display unit 25, and the head-up display device 46 are connected to the input / output interface 40. In addition, an image is projected onto the third display unit 26 via the head-up display device 46.

[0050] The sight line detection sensor 44 is provided on the instrument panel 14, for example, and is arranged so as to face the face of the occupant (driver) sitting on the driver's seat. The sight line detection sensor 44 detects the sight line direction of the occupant by recognizing the eyes of the occupant and using the principle of corneal reflection method, scleral reflection method, etc.

[0051] (Functional Structure of Vehicle Display Control Device 28)

[0052] The vehicle display control device 28 realizes various functions using the above-mentioned hardware resources. Figure 3 Next, the functional configuration realized by the vehicle display control device 28 will be described.

[0053] like Figure 3 As shown, the vehicle display control device 28 is configured to include, as functional structures, a driving mode acquisition unit 52, a driving assistance function information acquisition unit 54, an assistance reason display unit 56, and a mark display unit 58. In addition, each functional structure is realized by the CPU 30 reading and executing a program recorded in the ROM 32 or the memory 36.

[0054] The driving mode acquisition unit 52 acquires the driving mode of the vehicle 12. The vehicle 12 of the present embodiment has, as an example, a manual driving mode in which the driver performs all operations, and an automatic driving mode in which at least a part of the operations are automatically performed. In addition, the automatic driving mode includes a driving assistance function that assists acceleration, deceleration and steering only when the occupant holds the steering wheel, that is, active cruise control. In addition, the automatic driving mode includes a hands-off driving mode in which the driving assistance function operates even if the occupant takes his hands off the steering wheel as long as he is paying attention to the front side of the vehicle.

[0055] For example, in the hands-off state, when it is detected based on the signal from the sight line detection sensor 44 that the occupant's sight line is in the front direction of the vehicle, the driving assist function may be continued.

[0056] The driving assist function information acquisition unit 54 acquires information related to the driving assist function in operation. Specifically, signals from actuators such as a steering wheel actuator, an accelerator actuator, and a brake actuator (not shown) may also be acquired. The steering wheel actuator is a component for implementing steering of the vehicle 12. The accelerator actuator is a component for implementing acceleration of the vehicle 12. In addition, the brake actuator is a component for implementing deceleration of the vehicle 12.

[0057] For example, when the vehicle 12 is being steered by the steering wheel actuator, the driving assistance function information acquisition unit 54 acquires information related to the driving assistance function, thereby notifying that the driving assistance function for steering the vehicle 12 is operating.

[0058] Furthermore, for example, when the accelerator actuator is used to accelerate the vehicle 12, the driving assistance function information acquisition unit 54 acquires information related to the driving assistance function, thereby knowing that the driving assistance function for accelerating the vehicle 12 is operating. Furthermore, when the brake actuator is used to decelerate the vehicle 12, the driving assistance function information acquisition unit 54 acquires information related to the driving assistance function, thereby knowing that the driving assistance function for decelerating the vehicle 12 is operating.

[0059] The support reason display unit 56 displays an image indicating the reason why the driving support function is operated in the display area. In the present embodiment, as an example, the support reason display unit 56 is configured to display a predetermined image in the display area V3.

[0060] In addition, the auxiliary reason display unit 56 of the present embodiment displays different images at least when the inter-vehicle distance to the preceding vehicle becomes less than a predetermined value, when traveling on a curve, when the distance to a traffic signal that is lit with a stop light color becomes less than a predetermined value, and when the distance to a temporary stop position becomes less than a predetermined value. Examples of image display will be described later.

[0061] The mark display unit 58 displays a mark corresponding to the type of driving assist function near the image. The mark display unit 58 of this embodiment is configured to display a graphic surrounding the image as a mark, and to display a mark of a different shape depending on the type of driving assist function.

[0062] Here, in the present embodiment, as an example, the mark display unit 58 is configured to display the mark at different positions according to the manual driving mode in which the driver performs all operations and the automatic driving mode in which at least part of the operations are automatically performed. In addition, the mark display unit 58 is configured to display different marks according to the active cruise control mode in which the occupant needs to hold the steering wheel and the hands-free mode in which the occupant does not need to hold the steering wheel.

[0063] (Display example)

[0064] Figure 4 1 is a diagram showing a display example of the display area V3 in the embodiment, and shows a state in which the deceleration assist function is operating during manual driving.

[0065] like Figure 4 As shown, a first image 62 indicating the current speed of the vehicle 12 is displayed in the upper portion of the display region V3. The speed of the vehicle 12 is calculated based on a signal detected by a vehicle speed sensor (not shown).

[0066] A second image 64 representing the current gear position of the vehicle 12 is displayed next to the left side of the first image 62. Figure 4 In FIG. 6 , an image imitating “D” indicating a driving range is displayed as the second graphic 64 .

[0067] A third image 66 imitating the vehicle is displayed at the bottom of the display area V3. In addition, an image imitating the lane in which the vehicle 12 is traveling is displayed around the third image 66 and is colored in a predetermined color according to the driving mode. For example, in the present embodiment, the road is displayed in gray along the lane.

[0068] A fourth image 68 indicating the reason why the driving assist function is activated is displayed between the first image 62 and the third image 66. Specifically, as the fourth image 68, an image imitating a preceding vehicle traveling in front of the vehicle 12 is displayed.

[0069] In addition, a mark 70 corresponding to the type of driving assist function is displayed near the fourth image 68. The mark 70 of this embodiment is displayed as a figure surrounding the fourth image 68 and is a substantially rectangular figure. In addition, the mark 70 may be displayed in gray like the road.

[0070] In the manual driving mode, by displaying the fourth image 68 in the display area V3 at substantially the same timing as when the driving assist function for decelerating the vehicle 12 is activated, the occupant can intuitively understand that deceleration is being implemented because the distance to the preceding vehicle becomes equal to or smaller than a predetermined value.

[0071] exist Figure 5 In, with Figure 4 Likewise, the state in which the deceleration assist function is operating during manual driving is shown.

[0072] like Figure 5 As shown, a first image 62 indicating the current speed of the vehicle 12 is displayed in the upper portion of the display region V3 , and a second image 64 indicating the current shift position of the vehicle 12 is displayed next to the left side of the first image 62 .

[0073] A fourth image 68 indicating the reason why the driving assist function is activated is displayed below the first image 62. Specifically, an image imitating an arrow mark indicating a curve is displayed as the fourth image 68. A substantially rectangular mark 70 is displayed so as to surround the fourth image 68.

[0074] In the manual driving mode, by displaying the fourth image 68 in the display area V3 at substantially the same timing as the timing when the driving assist function for decelerating the vehicle 12 is activated, the occupant can intuitively understand that deceleration is being implemented due to entering a curve at a relatively high speed.

[0075] exist Figure 6 In, with Figure 4 Similarly, the state in which the assist function of deceleration during manual driving is working is shown, and the first image 62, the second image 64, and the third image 66 are Figure 4 Same as in.

[0076] like Figure 6As shown, a fourth image 68 indicating the reason why the driving assist function is activated is displayed below the first image 62. Specifically, an image imitating a traffic signal that is lit with a stop light color is displayed as the fourth image 68. In addition, a substantially rectangular mark 70 is displayed so as to surround the fourth image 68.

[0077] In the manual driving mode, by displaying the fourth image 68 in the display area V3 at a timing substantially identical to the timing at which the driving assistance function that decelerates the vehicle 12 is activated, the occupant can intuitively understand that deceleration is being implemented because the distance to the traffic signal that is lit with a stop light color has become less than a predetermined value.

[0078] exist Figure 7 In, with Figure 4 Similarly, the state in which the assist function of deceleration during manual driving is working is shown, and the first image 62, the second image 64, and the third image 66 are Figure 4 same.

[0079] like Figure 7 As shown, a fourth image 68 indicating the reason why the driving assist function is activated is displayed below the first image 62. Specifically, an image imitating a sign indicating a temporary stop is displayed as the fourth image 68. In addition, a substantially rectangular mark 70 is displayed so as to surround the fourth image 68.

[0080] In the manual driving mode, by displaying the fourth image 68 in the display area V3 at substantially the same timing as the timing when the driving assist function for decelerating the vehicle 12 is activated, the occupant can intuitively understand that deceleration is being implemented because the distance to the temporary stop point has become less than a predetermined value.

[0081] Figure 8 It is a diagram showing a display example of the display area V3 in the embodiment, and shows a state in which the assist function for deceleration during automatic driving is operating.

[0082] like Figure 8 As shown, a first image 62 indicating the current speed of the vehicle 12 is displayed in the upper portion of the display region V3 , and a second image 64 indicating the current shift position of the vehicle 12 is displayed next to the left side of the first image 62 .

[0083] A fifth image 63 indicating the set speed of the vehicle 12 is displayed next to the right side of the first image 62. In the present embodiment, an image indicating that the vehicle speed is set to 80 km / h is displayed as the fifth image 63. Therefore, the vehicle 12 is configured so that, when the inter-vehicle distance with the preceding vehicle is sufficiently large, the passenger maintains a speed of 80 km / h without operating the accelerator pedal. In addition, the set speed can be appropriately changed by the passenger's operation.

[0084] A sixth image 72 showing a preceding vehicle is displayed below the first image 62. In the sixth image 72, a straight line is drawn below a figure imitating a preceding vehicle, and it is shown that the system of the vehicle 12 has recognized the preceding vehicle.

[0085] A seventh image 74 imitating a plurality of lines is displayed between the sixth image 72 and the third image 66 representing the vehicle. The number of lines displayed as the seventh image 74 increases or decreases according to the inter-vehicle distance from the preceding vehicle. For example, the seventh image 74 is configured such that the number of lines displayed as the seventh image 74 decreases when the inter-vehicle distance from the preceding vehicle decreases.

[0086] In addition, although in this embodiment, the road is displayed in green along the lane, it is not limited to this and may be displayed in a color different from green. Although it is preferred that the color of the road changes according to the manual driving mode and the automatic driving mode, it may be displayed in the same color.

[0087] An eighth image 76 imitating a vehicle traveling in an adjacent lane is displayed on the left side of the third image 66. The vehicle 12 is provided with a plurality of sensors capable of detecting surrounding conditions, and surrounding vehicles detected by these sensors are displayed in the display region V3.

[0088] Here, a ninth image 78 indicating the reason why the driving assist function is activated is displayed on the left side of the third image 66. Specifically, an image imitating an arrow mark indicating a curve is displayed as the ninth image 78. In addition, a substantially rectangular mark 80 is displayed so as to surround the ninth image 78.

[0089] In the automatic driving mode, by displaying the ninth image 78 in the display area V3 at a timing substantially the same as the timing at which the driving assistance function that decelerates the vehicle 12 is activated, the occupant can intuitively understand that the vehicle 12 is decelerating because it has entered a curve at a relatively high speed. Figure 8In the embodiment, the eighth image 86 and the ninth image 78 overlap because other vehicles are traveling around the vehicle 12. However, if no other vehicles are traveling, only the ninth image 78 is displayed at the same position. In this way, in the present embodiment, the image indicating the reason why the driving assist function is operating is displayed at different positions depending on the manual driving mode and the automatic driving mode.

[0090] Fig. 9 FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a display example of the display area V3 in the embodiment, and shows a state in which the assist function of deceleration during automatic driving is operating. Fig. 9 In the embodiment, the first image 62, the second image 64, the third image 66, the fifth image 63, the sixth image 72, the seventh image 74 and the eighth image 76 are Figure 8 same.

[0091] like Fig. 9 As shown, a ninth image 78 indicating the reason why the driving assist function is activated is displayed on the left side of the third image 66. Specifically, an image imitating a sign indicating a temporary stop is displayed as the ninth image 78. In addition, a substantially rectangular mark 80 is displayed so as to surround the ninth image 78.

[0092] In the automatic driving mode, by displaying the ninth image 78 in the display area V3 at a timing substantially identical to the timing at which the driving assistance function that decelerates the vehicle 12 is activated, the occupant can intuitively understand that deceleration is being implemented because the distance to the temporary stop point has become less than a predetermined value.

[0093] Fig.10 FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a display example of the display area V3 in the embodiment, and shows a state in which the assist function of deceleration during automatic driving is operating. Fig.10 In the embodiment, the first image 62, the second image 64, the third image 66, the fifth image 63, the sixth image 72, the seventh image 74 and the eighth image 76 are Figure 8 same.

[0094] like Fig.10 As shown, a ninth image 78 indicating the reason why the driving assist function is operating is displayed on the left side of the third image 66. Specifically, an image imitating a sign indicating a roundabout is displayed as the ninth image 78. In addition, a substantially rectangular mark 80 is displayed so as to surround the ninth image 78.

[0095] In the automatic driving mode, by displaying the ninth image 78 in the display area V3 at a timing substantially identical to the timing at which the driving assistance function that decelerates the vehicle 12 operates, the occupants can intuitively understand that deceleration is implemented because the vehicle speed entering the roundabout is above a predetermined value.

[0096] Fig.11 FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a display example of the display area V3 in the embodiment, and shows a state in which the assist function of deceleration during automatic driving is operating. Fig.11 In the embodiment, the first image 62, the second image 64, the third image 66, the fifth image 63, the sixth image 72, the seventh image 74 and the eighth image 76 are Figure 8 same.

[0097] like Fig.11 As shown, a ninth image 78 indicating the reason why the driving assist function is activated is displayed on the left side of the third image 66. Specifically, an image imitating a toll booth is displayed as the ninth image 78. In addition, a substantially rectangular mark 80 is displayed so as to surround the ninth image 78.

[0098] In the automatic driving mode, by displaying the ninth image 78 in the display area V3 at a timing substantially identical to the timing at which the driving assistance function that decelerates the vehicle 12 is activated, the occupant can intuitively understand that deceleration is being implemented because the distance to the toll booth has become less than a predetermined value.

[0099] In addition, although the hands-free driving mode is carried out with Figures 8 to 11 The same display may be used, but different colors may be used to display the color of the road and the color of the mark 80. For example, in the case of normal active cruise control, the color of the road and the color of the mark 80 may be displayed in green, while in the hands-free driving mode, the color of the road and the color of the mark 80 may be displayed in blue.

[0100] (effect)

[0101] Next, the operation of this embodiment will be described.

[0102] (Display Processing)

[0103] use Fig.12 The flowchart shown in the figure will be used to describe an example of display processing for displaying a predetermined image on the third display unit 26 as the projection surface of the head-up display device 46. The display processing is executed by the CPU 30 reading a display program from the ROM 32 or the storage 36 and developing it in the RAM 34 for execution.

[0104] The CPU 30 acquires the driving mode in step S102 . Specifically, the CPU 30 acquires information on the driving mode of the vehicle 12 through the function of the driving mode acquisition unit 52 .

[0105] The CPU 30 acquires the surrounding conditions in step S104 . Specifically, the CPU 30 acquires data on the surrounding conditions of the vehicle 12 based on signals from sensors mounted on the vehicle 12 .

[0106] In step S106 , the CPU 30 determines whether the driving assist function is operating. For example, based on information obtained from actuators such as a steering actuator, an accelerator actuator, and a brake actuator, the CPU 30 determines that the driving assist function is operating if any actuator is operating.

[0107] If the CPU 30 determines in step S106 that the driving assist function is operating, the CPU 30 proceeds to the process of step S108. If the CPU 30 determines in step S106 that the driving assist function is not operating, the CPU 30 ends the display process.

[0108] The CPU 30 determines whether the vehicle 12 is in manual driving mode in step S108. Specifically, based on the information obtained in step S102, the CPU 30 transfers the process to step S112 when the driving mode of the vehicle 12 is in manual driving mode. On the other hand, when the vehicle 12 is in automatic driving mode, the CPU 30 determines that the vehicle 12 is not in manual driving mode and transfers the process to step S110.

[0109] When the driving mode of the vehicle 12 is the manual driving mode, the CPU 30 displays the fourth image 68 and the mark 70 at a predetermined position in step S112. Specifically, the CPU 30 displays the fourth image 68 corresponding to the reason for assistance in the display area V3 through the function of the assistance reason display unit 56. In addition, the CPU 30 displays the mark 70 corresponding to the type of driving assistance function through the function of the mark display unit 58. In this way, Figures 4 to 7 The fourth image 68 and the mark 70 shown are displayed. Then, the CPU 30 ends the display process.

[0110] On the other hand, when the driving mode of the vehicle 12 is the automatic driving mode, the CPU 30 displays the ninth image 78 and the mark 80 at a predetermined position in step S110. Specifically, the CPU 30 displays the ninth image 78 corresponding to the reason for assistance in the display area V3 through the function of the assistance reason display unit 56. In addition, the CPU 30 displays the mark 80 corresponding to the type of driving assistance function through the function of the mark display unit 58. In this way, Figures 8 to 11 The ninth image 78 and the mark 80 shown are displayed. Then, the CPU 30 ends the display processing.

[0111] As described above, in the vehicle display control system 10 having the vehicle display control device 28 according to the present embodiment, when at least one of the driving assist functions of acceleration, deceleration and steering is operated, predetermined information is displayed in the display areas V1 to V3 around the driver's seat. Specifically, the assistance reason display unit 56 displays the fourth image 68 or the ninth image indicating the reason why the driving assist function is operated in the display area V3. Thus, the driver can understand the reason why the driving assist function is operated by visually confirming the image displayed in the display area V3.

[0112] In the present embodiment, the mark display unit 58 displays a mark 70 or a mark 80 corresponding to the type of the driving assist function near the image. Thus, the driver can understand the type of the driving assist function by just glancing at the mark.

[0113] Furthermore, in the present embodiment, since the mark display unit 58 surrounds the image with graphics of different shapes depending on the type of the driving assistance function, the occupant can understand the type of the driving assistance function simply by observing the shape of the graphics.

[0114] In particular, the mark display unit 58 of the present embodiment displays different marks according to the situation of assisting acceleration, assisting deceleration, and assisting steering of the vehicle, so that the occupant can understand whether acceleration, deceleration, or steering is assisted simply by observing the mark.

[0115] In addition, in the present embodiment, different symbols are displayed according to the manual driving mode and the automatic driving mode, so that it is possible to understand in which driving mode the driving assistance function is working. In particular, in the present embodiment, since different colors are displayed according to the active cruise control mode and the hands-free mode even in the automatic driving mode, it is easy to understand in which driving mode the driving assistance function is working.

[0116] In the present embodiment, since the positions of the images and the marks are different depending on the manual driving mode and the automatic driving mode, the occupant can understand in which driving mode the driving assist function is operating simply by checking the position of the mark.

[0117] Although the vehicle display control system 10 involved in the embodiment has been described above, it can of course be implemented in various ways without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, although the structure of displaying a predetermined image in the display area V3 of the third display unit 26 is described in the above embodiment, it is not limited to this. For example, a structure of displaying a predetermined image in the display area V1 of the first display unit 24 or the display area V2 of the second display unit 25 may also be adopted.

[0118] In addition, although in the above-mentioned embodiment, Figures 8 to 11 As shown in FIG. 1 , a substantially rectangular figure surrounding the ninth image 78 is displayed as the mark 80, but the present invention is not limited to this. Fig.13 as well as Fig.14 The structure of the modified example is shown.

[0119] (First Modification Example)

[0120] Fig.13 FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a display example of the display area in the first modification example, and shows a state in which the assist function for deceleration during automatic driving is operating. Fig.13 As shown, an image imitating an arrow mark indicating a curve is displayed as a ninth image 78 indicating the reason why the driving assist function is activated. In addition, a circular mark 90 is displayed so as to surround the ninth image 78 .

[0121] (Second Modification Example)

[0122] Fig.14 FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a display example of the display area in the second modification example, and shows a state in which the assist function for deceleration during automatic driving is operating. Fig.14 As shown, an image imitating an arrow mark indicating a curve is displayed as a ninth image 78 indicating the reason why the driving assist function is activated. In addition, a triangular mark 90 is displayed so as to surround the ninth image 78 .

[0123] In addition, although the driving assistance function regarding deceleration of the vehicle 12 is described in the above embodiment, the same display may be performed for driving assistance functions such as acceleration and steering of the vehicle 12. For example, a rectangular mark may be displayed when the type of driving assistance function is deceleration, a circular mark may be displayed when the type of driving assistance function is acceleration, and a triangular mark may be displayed when the type of driving assistance function is steering.

[0124] In addition, the color of the mark may be changed during the driving assistance of deceleration, steering, and acceleration. For example, the circular mark may be displayed in red during the driving assistance of deceleration, in green or other colors other than red during the driving assistance of steering, and in yellow or other colors other than red and green during the driving assistance of acceleration. In this case, the method is not limited to changing the color of the edge of the mark, and the color inside the frame of the mark may be changed.

[0125] Even if the symbol is the same circular shape, the symbol may be displayed in a different form, such as a double circle, a circle with thick lines, a circle with wavy lines, etc., depending on the type of driving assistance function.

[0126] In addition, the structure is not limited to displaying a graphic surrounding an image as a mark. For example, a mark corresponding to the type of driving assistance function may be displayed adjacent to the image. Specifically, in the case of deceleration, an arrow mark may be displayed as a mark adjacent to the image and pointing downward using animation.

[0127] Furthermore, the processing executed by the CPU 30 reading the program in the above embodiment can also be executed by various processors other than the CPU 30. As the processor in this case, FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) and other PLD (Programmable Logic Device) whose circuit structure can be changed after manufacturing, and ASIC (Application Spec Integrated Circuit) and other dedicated circuits as processors with circuit structures specially designed to execute specific processing can be exemplified. In addition, the above processing can be executed by one of these various processors, or by a combination of two or more processors of the same type or different types. For example, the above processing can be executed by a plurality of FPGAs and a combination of a CPU and an FPGA. In addition, the hardware structure of these various processors is more specifically a circuit composed of a combination of circuit elements such as semiconductor elements.

[0128] In addition, although the above embodiment is configured to store various data in the storage 36, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, a non-temporary recording medium such as a CD (Compact Disk), a DVD (Digital Versatile Disk), or a USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory may be used as a storage unit. In this case, various programs and data are stored in these recording media.

[0129] Furthermore, the process flow described in the above embodiment is an example, and unnecessary steps may be deleted, new steps may be added, or the process order may be replaced without departing from the gist of the invention.

Claims

1. A display control device for a vehicle, which displays predetermined information in a display area around a driver's seat when at least one driving assist function among acceleration, deceleration and steering is operated, and has: an assistance reason display unit that displays an image indicating a reason why the driving assistance function has been operated in the display area; The mark display unit displays a mark corresponding to the type of the driving assistance function near the image.

2. The vehicle display control device according to claim 1, wherein: The mark display unit displays a graphic surrounding the image as the mark, and displays a mark having a different shape depending on the type of driving assistance function.

3. The vehicle display control device according to claim 1, wherein: The mark display unit displays different marks according to whether acceleration assistance is provided, deceleration assistance is provided, or steering assistance is provided.

4. The vehicle display control device according to claim 1, wherein: The symbol display unit displays different symbols depending on a manual driving mode in which the driver performs all operations and an automatic driving mode in which at least a part of the operations are automatically performed.

5. The vehicle display control device according to claim 1, wherein: The mark display unit displays the mark at different positions depending on a manual driving mode in which a driver performs all operations and an automatic driving mode in which at least a part of the operations are automatically performed.

6. The vehicle display control device according to claim 1, wherein: The auxiliary reason display unit displays different images at least when the inter-vehicle distance with the preceding vehicle becomes less than a predetermined value, when driving on a curve, when the distance to a traffic signal that is lit with a stop light color becomes less than a predetermined value, and when the distance to a temporary stop position becomes less than a predetermined value.

7. A vehicle display control method, which displays predetermined information in a display area around a driver's seat when at least one driving assist function among acceleration, deceleration and steering is in operation, wherein: displaying an image in the display area indicating the reason why the driving assist function has been activated; A mark corresponding to the type of the driving assist function is displayed near the image.

8. A computer program product including a program for causing a computer to execute a process of displaying predetermined information in a display area around a driver's seat when at least one driving assist function among acceleration, deceleration and steering is operated, wherein: The program causes the computer to execute the following processing, namely: displaying an image in the display area indicating the reason why the driving assist function has been activated; A mark corresponding to the type of the driving assist function is displayed near the image.

Images