Information processing system, communication method, and moving object

Abstract

The present technology pertains to an information processing system, a communication method, and a mobile object that make it possible to improve the reliability of data transmission in a mobile object. An information processing system includes a plurality of integrated electronic control units (ECUs) configured in a moving body and controlling a plurality of functions. Each integrated ECU is connected via an optical communication path, and at least some of the integrated ECUs are connected to two or more optical communication paths. This technology can be applied to, for example, a vehicle.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present technology relates to an information processing system, a communication method, and a moving body, and more particularly, to an information processing system, a communication method, and a moving body using optical communication. Background Art

[0002] In the future, as the electrical and electronic (E / E) architecture of vehicles, the zonal architecture is expected to become mainstream (for example, see Patent Document 1).

[0003] Citation List

[0004] Patent Document

[0005] Patent Document 1: US Patent Application Publication No. 2020 / 125858 Summary of the Invention

[0006] Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0007] In the zonal architecture, it is assumed that with the development of autonomous driving and the like, a large amount of sensor data is collected for each zone and transmitted in the vehicle. In addition, when a failure occurs during data transmission, functions such as autonomous driving can be stopped. Therefore, it is desirable to improve the reliability of data transmission in the vehicle.

[0008] The present technology has been made in view of such circumstances and aims to enhance the reliability of data transmission in a moving body such as a vehicle.

[0009] Solutions to the Problems

[0010] An information processing system according to a first aspect of the present technology includes a plurality of integrated electronic control units (ECUs) configured in a moving body and controlling a plurality of functions. Each of the integrated ECUs is connected via an optical communication path, and at least some of the integrated ECUs are connected to two or more optical communication paths.

[0011] A communication method according to a second aspect of the present technology includes: connecting a plurality of integrated ECUs that control a plurality of functions to each other via an optical communication path in a moving body; and connecting at least some of the integrated ECUs to optical communication paths of two or more systems, and transmitting and receiving data via the optical communication paths of the two or more systems.

[0012] A moving body according to a third aspect of the present technology includes a plurality of integrated ECUs that control a plurality of functions. Each integrated ECU is connected via an optical communication path, and at least some of the integrated ECUs are connected to optical communication paths of two or more systems.

[0013] In the first or third aspect of the present technology, a plurality of integrated ECUs that control a plurality of functions are connected via an optical communication path, and at least some of the integrated ECUs are connected to the optical communication paths of two or more systems.

[0014] In the second aspect of the present technology, a plurality of integrated ECUs that control a plurality of functions are connected to each other via an optical communication path in a moving body, and at least some of the integrated ECUs are connected to the optical communication paths of two or more systems, and data is transmitted and received via the optical communication paths of two or more systems. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0015] Figure 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a vehicle control system.

[0016] Figure 2 is a diagram showing an example of a sensing area.

[0017] Figure 3 is a diagram showing an example of a data flow in a vehicle.

[0018] Figure 4 is a diagram showing a configuration example of an information processing system provided in a vehicle.

[0019] Figure 5 shows Figure 4 an example of the usage rate of sensor data of each sensor of the information processing system in

[0020] Figure 6 shows a first embodiment of an information processing system to which the present technology is applied.

[0021] Figure 7 shows Figure 6 an example of the usage rate of sensor data of each area of the information processing system in

[0022] Figure 8 is a diagram showing an example of a method of diverting the wavelength of sensor data to another application.

[0023] Figure 9 shows a second embodiment of an information processing system to which the present technology is applied.

[0024] Figure 10 shows a third embodiment of an information processing system to which the present technology is applied.

[0025] Figure 11 shows a fourth embodiment of an information processing system to which the present technology is applied.

[0026] Figure 12 shows a fifth embodiment of an information processing system to which the present technology is applied.

[0027] Figure 13 It is a diagram showing the data flow sent from the main ECU.

[0028] Figure 14 It is a diagram showing the data flow sent from the regional ECU of the redundant system network.

[0029] Figure 15 It is a diagram showing the data flow sent from the ECU of the non-redundant system network.

[0030] Figure 16 It is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the main ECU.

[0031] Figure 17 It is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the regional ECU of the redundant system network.

[0032] Figure 18 It is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the regional ECU of the non-redundant system network.

[0033] Figure 19 It is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the entertainment ECU.

[0034] Figure 20 It is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the ECU.

[0035] Figure 21 It shows the sixth embodiment of the information processing system to which the present technology is applied.

[0036] Figure 22 It is a diagram showing an example of a method for adding an information processing system.

[0037] Figure 23 It is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a computer. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0038] Hereinafter, modes for executing the present technology will be described. The explanation will be made in the following order.

[0039] 1. Configuration example of vehicle control system

[0040] 2. Background of the present technology

[0041] 3. Embodiments

[0042] 4. Modifications

[0043] 5. Others

[0044] <<1. Configuration example of vehicle control system>>

[0045] Figure 1 It is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a vehicle control system 11 as an example of a mobile device control system to which the present technology is applied.

[0046] The vehicle control system 11 is provided in the vehicle 1 and performs processes related to driving assistance and autonomous driving of the vehicle 1.

[0047] The vehicle control system 11 includes a vehicle control electronic control unit (ECU) 21, a communication unit 22, a map information accumulation unit 23, a position information acquisition unit 24, an external recognition sensor 25, an in-vehicle sensor 26, a vehicle sensor 27, a storage unit 28, a driving assistance / autonomous driving control unit 29, a driver monitoring system (DMS) 30, a human-machine interface (HMI) 31, and a vehicle control unit 32.

[0048] The vehicle control ECU 21, the communication unit 22, the map information accumulation unit 23, the position information acquisition unit 24, the external recognition sensor 25, the in-vehicle sensor 26, the vehicle sensor 27, the storage unit 28, the driving assistance / autonomous driving control unit 29, the driver monitoring system (DMS) 30, the human-machine interface (HMI) 31, and the vehicle control unit 32 are interconnected so that communication can be performed via the communication network 41. The communication network 41 is formed of an in-vehicle communication network, a bus, etc. that conform to a digital two-way communication standard, such as a controller area network (CAN), a local interconnect network (LIN), a local area network (LAN), FlexRay (registered trademark), or Ethernet (registered trademark). The communication network 41 can be selectively used according to the type of data to be transmitted. For example, CAN can be applied to data related to vehicle control, while Ethernet can be applied to large-capacity data. Note that the units of the vehicle control system 11 can be directly connected to each other using wireless communication (such as near field communication (NFC) or Bluetooth (registered trademark)) suitable for relatively short-distance communication without using the communication network 41.

[0049] Note that hereinafter, in the case where each unit of the vehicle control system 11 performs communication via the communication network 41, the description of the communication network 41 will be omitted. For example, in the case where the vehicle control ECU 21 and the communication unit 22 perform communication via the communication network 41, it will simply be described that the vehicle control ECU 21 and the communication unit 22 perform communication.

[0050] For example, the vehicle control ECU 21 includes various processors, such as a central processing unit (CPU) and a microprocessing unit (MPU). The vehicle control ECU 21 controls all or some of the features of the vehicle control system 11.

[0051] The communication unit 22 communicates with various devices inside and outside the vehicle, another vehicle, a server, a base station, etc., and sends and receives various data. Thus, the communication unit 22 can perform communication using various communication schemes.

[0052] The communication with the outside of the vehicle that can be performed by the communication unit 22 will be schematically described. The communication unit 22 communicates with a server (hereinafter referred to as an external server) present on an external network via a base station or an access point through a wireless communication system such as, for example, the fifth-generation mobile communication system (5G), Long-Term Evolution (LTE), Dedicated Short Range Communication (DSRC), etc. The external network with which the communication unit 22 performs communication includes, for example, the Internet, a cloud network, a provider-specific network, etc. The communication system through which the communication unit 22 performs communication on the external network is not particularly limited as long as it is a wireless communication system that allows digital two-way communication at a communication speed equal to or higher than a predetermined speed and over a distance equal to or longer than a predetermined distance.

[0053] In addition, for example, the communication unit 22 can communicate with a terminal present near the host vehicle using peer-to-peer (P2P) technology. The terminal present near the host vehicle is, for example, a terminal attached to a moving body (such as a pedestrian or a bicycle) moving at a relatively low speed, a terminal fixedly installed in a store, etc., or a machine type communication (MTC) terminal. In addition, the communication unit 22 can also perform V2X communication. V2X communication refers to communication between the host vehicle and other vehicles, for example, vehicle-to-vehicle communication with another vehicle, vehicle-to-infrastructure communication with roadside equipment, etc., vehicle-to-home communication, and vehicle-to-pedestrian communication with a terminal carried by a pedestrian.

[0054] For example, the communication unit 22 can receive (over the air) from the outside a program for updating the software for controlling the operation of the vehicle control system 11. The communication unit 22 can also receive map information, traffic information, information about the surroundings of the vehicle 1, etc. from the outside. In addition, the communication unit 22 can, for example, send information about the vehicle 1, information about the surrounding environment of the vehicle 1, etc. to the outside. The information about the vehicle 1 to be sent to the outside through the communication unit 22 is, for example, data indicating the state of the vehicle 1, the identification result from the identification unit 73, etc. In addition, the communication unit 22 performs communication compatible with the vehicle emergency call system, such as eCall.

[0055] For example, the communication unit 22 receives electromagnetic waves transmitted by a Vehicle Information and Communication System (VICS) (registered trademark) using a radio wave beacon, an optical beacon, frequency modulation (FM) multiplex broadcasting, etc.

[0056] Communication with the interior of the vehicle that can be performed by the communication unit 22 will be schematically described. The communication unit 22 can communicate with each device in the vehicle using, for example, wireless communication. The communication unit 22 can perform wireless communication with the devices in the vehicle through a communication scheme that allows digital two-way communication at a communication speed equal to or higher than a predetermined speed, for example, through wireless communication such as wireless LAN, Bluetooth, NFC, or wireless universal serial bus (WUSB). In addition to this, the communication unit 22 can also communicate with each device in the vehicle using wired communication. For example, the communication unit 22 can communicate with each device in the vehicle through wired communication via a cable connected to a connection terminal not shown in the figure. The communication unit 22 can communicate with each device in the vehicle through wired communication such as universal serial bus (USB), high-definition multimedia interface (HDMI) (registered trademark), or mobile high-definition link (MHL), by means of a communication system that allows digital two-way communication at a communication speed equal to or higher than a predetermined speed, for example.

[0057] Here, the devices in the vehicle refer to, for example, devices not connected to the communication network 41 in the vehicle. Possible examples of the devices in the vehicle include mobile devices and wearable devices carried by occupants such as the driver, information devices brought into the vehicle and temporarily installed, and the like.

[0058] The map information accumulation unit 23 accumulates either or both of the map obtained from the outside and the map created by the vehicle 1. For example, the map information accumulation unit 23 accumulates a three-dimensional high-precision map, a global map with a lower accuracy than the high-precision map but covering a wider area, and the like.

[0059] Examples of the high-precision map include a dynamic map, a point cloud map, a vector map, and the like. The dynamic map is a map formed by four layers of dynamic information, semi-dynamic information, semi-static information, and static information, and is provided to the vehicle 1 from an external server or the like, for example. The point cloud map is a map formed by point clouds (point cloud data). The vector map is a map obtained by associating traffic information such as the positions of lanes and traffic lights with the point cloud map and adapting the associated point cloud map to ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance System) or AD (Automotive Drive), etc.

[0060] The point cloud map and the vector map can be provided, for example, from an external server or the like, or can be created by the vehicle 1 and accumulated in the map information accumulation unit 23 as a map for performing matching with a local map described later based on the sensing results from the camera 51, the radar 52, the optical detection and ranging or the laser imaging detection and ranging (LiDAR) 53, etc. Further, in the case of providing a high-precision map from an external server or the like, for example, map data of several hundred square meters of the planned route that the vehicle 1 will travel from now on is acquired from an external server or the like to reduce the communication volume.

[0061] The position information acquisition unit 24 receives a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) signal from GNSS satellites and acquires the position information about the vehicle 1. The acquired position information is provided to the driving assistance / automatic driving control unit 29. Note that the position information acquisition unit 24 can acquire position information not only by means of a system using GNSS signals but also by means of, for example, beacons.

[0062] The external recognition sensor 25 includes various sensors for recognizing the situation outside the vehicle 1 and provides the sensor data from each sensor to each unit of the vehicle control system 11. The type and number of sensors included in the external recognition sensor 25 can be determined as needed.

[0063] For example, the external recognition sensor 25 includes the camera 51, the radar 52, the optical detection and ranging or the laser imaging detection and ranging (LiDAR) 53, and the ultrasonic sensor 54. In addition to this, the external recognition sensor 25 can have a configuration including one or more of the sensors among the camera 51, the radar 52, the LiDAR 53, and the ultrasonic sensor 54, and the number of the camera 51, the radar 52, the LiDAR 53, and the ultrasonic sensor 54 is not limited to any specific number as long as the number represents the installable number of sensors for the vehicle 1. Further, the types of sensors included in the external recognition sensor 25 are not limited to this example, and the external recognition sensor 24 can include some other types of sensors. Examples of the sensing area of each sensor included in the external recognition sensor 25 will be described later.

[0064] Note that the imaging method of the camera 51 is not particularly limited. For example, cameras of various imaging schemes (such as a time-of-flight (ToF) camera, a stereo camera, a monocular camera, and an infrared camera, which are imaging schemes capable of distance measurement) can be used for the camera 51 as needed. Or, the camera 51 can simply acquire the captured image regardless of distance measurement.

[0065] In addition, for example, the external recognition sensor 25 may include an environmental sensor for detecting the environment of the vehicle 1. The environmental sensor is a sensor for detecting the environment such as weather, climate, and brightness, and may include various sensors such as a raindrop sensor, a fog sensor, a sunlight sensor, a snow sensor, and an illuminance sensor.

[0066] In addition, for example, the external recognition sensor 25 includes a microphone for detecting the sound around the vehicle 1, the position of the sound source, etc.

[0067] The in-vehicle sensor 26 includes various sensors for detecting information about the interior of the vehicle, and provides sensor data from each sensor to each unit of the vehicle control system 11. The type and number of various sensors included in the in-vehicle sensor 26 are not particularly limited as long as they can be actually installed in the vehicle 1.

[0068] For example, the in-vehicle sensor 26 may include one or more sensors among a camera, a radar, a seat sensor, a steering wheel sensor, a microphone, and a biometric sensor. As the camera included in the in-vehicle sensor 26, for example, a camera using various imaging schemes capable of measuring distance, such as a ToF camera, a stereo camera, a monocular camera, and an infrared camera, can be used. In addition to these cameras, the camera included in the in-vehicle sensor 26 may be a camera that simply acquires the captured image without performing distance measurement. The biometric sensor included in the in-vehicle sensor 26 is provided, for example, on a seat or a steering wheel, etc., and detects various biometric information of an occupant such as a driver.

[0069] The vehicle sensor 27 includes various sensors for detecting the state of the vehicle 1, and provides sensor data from each sensor to each unit of the vehicle control system 11. The type and number of various sensors included in the vehicle sensor 27 are not particularly limited as long as they can be actually installed in the vehicle 1.

[0070] For example, the vehicle sensor 27 includes a speed sensor, an acceleration sensor, an angular velocity sensor (gyro sensor), and an inertial measurement unit (IMU) obtained by integrating these sensors. For example, the vehicle sensor 27 includes a steering angle sensor for detecting the steering angle of the steering wheel, a yaw rate sensor, an accelerator sensor for detecting the operation amount of the accelerator pedal, and a brake sensor for detecting the operation amount of the brake pedal. For example, the vehicle sensor 27 includes a rotation sensor for detecting the rotation speed of the engine or the motor, a tire pressure sensor for detecting the tire pressure, a slip rate sensor for detecting the slip rate of the tire, and a wheel speed sensor for detecting the rotational speed of the wheel. For example, the vehicle sensor 27 includes a battery sensor for detecting the charge state and temperature of the battery, and a shock sensor for detecting an external shock.

[0071] The storage unit 28 includes at least a non-volatile storage medium or a volatile storage medium, and stores data and programs. The storage unit 28 serves as, for example, an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM) and a random access memory (RAM), and magnetic storage devices such as a hard disk drive (HDD), a semiconductor storage device, an optical storage device, and a magneto-optical storage device can be used as the storage medium. The storage unit 28 stores various programs and data to be used by the respective components of the vehicle control system 11. For example, the storage unit 28 includes an event data recorder (EDR) or a data storage system for autonomous driving (DSSAD), and stores information about the vehicle 1 before and after an event such as an accident and information acquired by the in-vehicle sensors 26.

[0072] The driving assistance / autonomous driving control unit 29 controls the driving assistance and autonomous driving of the vehicle 1. For example, the driving assistance / autonomous driving control unit 29 includes an analysis section 61, a motion planning section 62, and an operation control section 63.

[0073] The analysis section 61 performs analysis processing of the condition of the vehicle 1 and the surrounding conditions. The analysis section 61 includes a self-position estimation section 71, a sensor fusion section 72, and an identification section 73.

[0074] The self-position estimation section 71 estimates the self-position of the vehicle 1 based on the sensor data from the external recognition sensor 25 and the high-precision map accumulated in the map information accumulation unit 23. For example, the self-position estimation section 71 generates a local map based on the sensor data from the external recognition sensor 25, and matches the local map with the high-precision map to estimate the self-position of the vehicle 1. The position of the vehicle 1 is based on, for example, the center of the rear axle.

[0075] The local map is, for example, a three-dimensional high-precision map created using a technique such as simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM), an occupancy grid map, etc. The three-dimensional high-precision map is, for example, the above-mentioned point cloud map, etc. The occupancy grid map is a map that divides the three-dimensional or two-dimensional space around the vehicle 1 into grids (cells) of a predetermined size and represents the occupancy state of objects in units of grids. For example, the occupancy state of an object is indicated by the presence / absence or probability of existence of the object. The local map is also used, for example, by the identification section 73 to perform detection processing and identification processing of the conditions outside the vehicle 1.

[0076] Note that the self-position estimation section 71 can estimate the self-position of the vehicle 1 based on the position information acquired by the position information acquisition unit 24 and the sensor data from the vehicle sensor 27.

[0077] The sensor fusion section 72 performs sensor fusion processing that combines sensor data of multiple different types (e.g., image data provided by the camera 51 and sensor data provided by the radar 52) to obtain new information. Methods for combining sensor data of different types include integration, fusion, association, etc.

[0078] The recognition section 73 performs detection processing for detecting the situation outside the vehicle 1 and recognition processing for recognizing the situation outside the vehicle 1.

[0079] For example, the recognition section 73 performs detection processing and recognition processing of the situation outside the vehicle 1 based on information from the external recognition sensor 25, information from the own position estimation section 71, information from the sensor fusion section 72, etc.

[0080] Specifically, for example, the recognition section 73 performs detection processing, recognition processing, etc. of objects around the vehicle 1. The object detection processing is processing for detecting the presence, size, shape, position, movement, etc. of an object. The object recognition processing is, for example, processing for recognizing attributes such as the type of an object or identifying a specific object. However, the detection processing and the recognition processing are not necessarily clearly separated and may overlap.

[0081] For example, the recognition section 73 performs clustering to classify point clouds based on sensor data from the radar 52, LiDAR 53, etc. into clusters of point clouds to detect objects existing around the vehicle 1. In this way, the presence / absence, size, shape, and position of objects around the vehicle 1 are detected.

[0082] For example, the recognition section 73 detects the movement of an object around the vehicle 1 by performing tracking that follows the movement of the clusters of point clouds classified by clustering. As a result, the speed and traveling direction (movement vector) of an object around the vehicle 1 are detected.

[0083] For example, the recognition section 73 detects or recognizes vehicles, people, bicycles, obstacles, structures, roads, traffic lights, traffic signs, road signs, etc. based on the image data provided by the camera 51. In addition, the recognition section 73 can recognize the type of an object existing around the vehicle 1 by performing recognition processing such as semantic segmentation.

[0084] For example, the recognition section 73 can perform recognition processing for recognizing traffic rules around the vehicle 1 based on the map accumulated in the map information accumulation unit 23, the result of the own position estimation performed by the own position estimation section 71, and the object recognition result performed by the recognition section 73 to recognize objects around the vehicle 1. Through this processing, the recognition section 73 can recognize the position, state of the traffic light, the content of traffic signs and road signs, the content of traffic rules, the permitted driving lanes, etc.

[0085] For example, the recognition unit 73 can perform recognition processing to recognize the surrounding environment of the vehicle 1. The surrounding environment to be recognized by the recognition unit 73 may include weather, temperature, humidity, brightness, road surface conditions, and the like.

[0086] The action planning unit 62 creates an action plan for the vehicle 1. For example, the action planning unit 62 creates an action plan by performing global path planning and path following processing.

[0087] Note that global path planning is a process of planning a rough path from the start to the goal. This global path planning also includes a process called local path planning, which generates a local path near the vehicle 1 within the planned path, and this local path allows the vehicle 1 to travel safely and smoothly considering the motion characteristics of the vehicle 1.

[0088] Path following is a process of planning operations for traveling safely and accurately along the path planned by means of global path planning within the planned time. For example, the action planning unit 62 can calculate the target speed and target angular velocity of the vehicle 1 based on the result of this path following processing.

[0089] The operation control unit 63 controls the operation of the vehicle 1 in order to implement the action plan created by the action planning unit 62.

[0090] For example, the operation control unit 63 controls the steering control unit 81, the braking control unit 82, and the drive control unit 83 included in the vehicle control unit 32 described later, and performs acceleration / deceleration control and direction control so that the vehicle 1 follows the path calculated by local path planning. For example, the operation control unit 63 performs coordinated control to implement ADAS functions such as collision avoidance or shock mitigation, following driving, vehicle speed maintenance driving, host vehicle collision warning, host vehicle lane departure warning, etc. For example, the operation control unit 63 performs coordinated control so as to perform autonomous driving such as the vehicle traveling independently without depending on the driver's operation.

[0091] The DMS 30 performs authentication processing on the driver, recognition processing on the driver's state, etc. based on sensor data from the in-vehicle sensor 26, data input to the HMI 31 described later, etc. The state of the driver to be recognized may be physical state, alertness, attention level, fatigue level, line of sight direction, drunkenness, driving operation, posture, etc.

[0092] Note that the DMS 30 can perform authentication processing on occupants other than the driver and recognition processing on the state of the occupants. In addition, the DMS 30 can perform recognition processing based on, for example, sensor data from the in-vehicle sensor 26 to recognize the conditions inside the vehicle. Possible examples of the conditions inside the vehicle to be recognized include temperature, humidity, brightness, smell, etc.

[0093] The HMI 31 receives various data, instructions, etc., and presents various data to the driver, etc.

[0094] The data input through the HMI 31 will be schematically described. The HMI 31 includes an input device for human data input. The HMI 31 generates an input signal based on the data, instructions, etc. input through the input device, and provides the input signal to each component of the vehicle control system 11. The HMI 31 includes, for example, operation elements such as a touch panel, buttons, switches, and joysticks as input devices. In addition, the HMI 31 may further include an input device capable of inputting information by means other than manual operations such as voice and gestures. Further, the HMI 31 may use, for example, a remote control device using infrared rays or radio waves, or an external connection device such as a mobile device or a wearable device suitable for the operation of the vehicle control system 11 as an input device.

[0095] The presentation of data by the HMI 31 will now be roughly described. The HMI 31 generates visual information, audio information, and tactile information regarding the occupant or the outside of the vehicle. In addition, the HMI 31 performs output control to control the output, output content, output timing, output method, etc. of each generated piece of information. The HMI 31 generates and outputs, for example, information indicated by an image or light of an operation screen, a display of the state of the vehicle 1, a warning display, a monitoring image indicating the situation around the vehicle 1, etc. as visual information. In addition, the HMI 31 generates and outputs information indicated by sound as audio information, such as voice guidance, warning sounds, and warning messages. In addition, the HMI 31 generates and outputs, for example, information that gives a tactile sensation to the occupant through force, vibration, movement, etc. as tactile information.

[0096] As an output device for the HMI 31 to output visual information, for example, a display device that presents visual information by displaying an image itself or a projector device that presents visual information by projecting an image can be applied. Note that in addition to a display device having a conventional display, the display device may be a device that displays visual information in the field of view of the occupant, such as a head-up display, a transmissive display, or a wearable device having an augmented reality (AR) function. In addition, the HMI 31 may use a display device included in a navigation device, a dashboard, a camera monitoring system (CMS), an electronic mirror, a lamp, etc. provided in the vehicle 1 as an output device for outputting visual information.

[0097] As an output device for the HMI 31 to output auditory information, for example, an audio speaker, a headset, or earphones can be applied.

[0098] As an output device for outputting haptic information by the HMI 31, for example, a haptic element using haptic technology can be applied. The haptic element is provided, for example, at a portion where a passenger of the vehicle 1 comes into contact, such as a steering wheel or a seat.

[0099] The vehicle control unit 32 controls each part of the vehicle 1. The vehicle control unit 32 includes a steering control part 81, a brake control part 82, a drive control part 83, a body system control part 84, a lamp control part 85, and a horn control part 86.

[0100] The steering control part 81 detects and controls the state of the steering system of the vehicle 1, etc. The steering system includes, for example, a steering mechanism including a steering wheel, etc., an electric power steering device, etc. The steering control part 81 includes, for example, a steering ECU that controls the steering system, an actuator that drives the steering system, etc.

[0101] The brake control part 82 detects, controls, etc. the state of the braking system of the vehicle 1. The braking system includes, for example, a braking mechanism having a brake pedal, etc., an anti-lock braking system (ABS), a regenerative braking mechanism, etc. The brake control part 82 includes, for example, a brake ECU that controls the braking system, an actuator that drives the braking system, etc.

[0102] The drive control part 83 detects and controls the state of the drive system of the vehicle 1, etc. For example, the drive system includes an accelerator pedal, a driving force generating device for generating a driving force, such as an internal combustion engine or a drive motor, a driving force transmission mechanism for transmitting the driving force to the wheels, etc. The drive control part 83 includes, for example, a drive ECU that controls the drive system, an actuator that drives the drive system, etc.

[0103] The body system control part 84 detects and controls the state of the body system of the vehicle 1, etc. For example, the body system includes a keyless entry system, a smart key system, an electric window device, an electric seat, an air conditioner, an airbag, a seat belt, a gear shift lever, etc. The body system control part 84 includes, for example, a body system ECU that controls the body system, an actuator that drives the body system, etc.

[0104] The lamp control part 85 detects and controls the state of various lamps of the vehicle 1, etc. The lamps to be controlled can be headlights, reverse lights, fog lights, turn signals, brake lights, projectors, bumper displays, etc. The lamp control part 85 includes a lamp ECU that controls the lamps, an actuator that drives the lamps, etc.

[0105] The horn control part 86 detects, controls, etc. the state of the vehicle horn of the vehicle 1. The horn control part 86 includes, for example, a horn ECU that controls the vehicle horn, an actuator that drives the vehicle horn, etc.

[0106] Figure 2 is shown Figure 1A view showing an example of the sensing areas of the camera 51, radar 52, LiDAR 53, ultrasonic sensor 54, etc. of the external recognition sensor 25 in Figure 2 Schematically shows the vehicle 1 as viewed from above, where the left end side is the front (front) side of the vehicle 1 and the right end side is the rear (rear) side of the vehicle 1.

[0107] The sensing areas 101F and 101B represent examples of the sensing areas of the ultrasonic sensor 54. The sensing area 101F covers the area around the front end of the vehicle 1 with a plurality of ultrasonic sensors 54. The sensing area 101B covers the area near the rear end of the vehicle 1 with a plurality of ultrasonic sensors 54.

[0108] The sensing results in the sensing areas 101F and 101B are used, for example, for parking assistance of the vehicle 1, etc.

[0109] The sensing areas 102F to 102B show examples of the sensing areas of the radar 52 for short or medium distances. The sensing area 102F covers the area extending further in front of the vehicle 1 than the sensing area 101F. The sensing area 102B covers the area extending further behind the vehicle 1 than the sensing area 101B. The sensing area 102L covers the area around the left rear side of the vehicle 1. The sensing area 102R covers the area around the right rear side of the vehicle 1.

[0110] The sensing result in the sensing area 102F is used, for example, to detect vehicles, pedestrians, etc. present in front of the vehicle 1. For example, the sensing result in the sensing area 102B is used in functions such as collision prevention behind the vehicle 1. The sensing results in the sensing areas 102L and 102R are used, for example, to detect objects in the blind spots on the sides of the vehicle 1.

[0111] The sensing areas 103F to 103B show examples of the sensing areas of the camera 51. The sensing area 103F covers the area extending closer to the front of the vehicle 1 than the sensing area 102F. The sensing area 103B covers the area extending closer to the rear of the vehicle 1 than the sensing area 102B. The sensing area 103L covers the area around the left side of the vehicle 1. The sensing area 103R covers the area around the right side of the vehicle 1.

[0112] The sensing result in the sensing area 103F can be used, for example, for the recognition of traffic lights or traffic signs, lane departure prevention assistance systems, and automatic headlight control systems. For example, the sensing result in the sensing area 103B can be used for parking assistance, surround view systems, etc. For example, the sensing results in the sensing areas 103L and 103R can be used in surround view systems.

[0113] The sensing area 104 shows an example of the sensing area of the LiDAR 53. The sensing area 104 covers an area that extends to a position farther than the sensing area 103F in front of the vehicle 1. On the other hand, the sensing area 104 is narrower than the sensing area 103F in the left-right direction.

[0114] The sensing result in the sensing area 104 is used to detect an object such as a nearby vehicle, for example.

[0115] The sensing area 105 shows an example of the sensing area of the radar 52 for long distances. The sensing area 105 covers an area in front of the vehicle 1 that extends to a position farther than the sensing area 104. On the other hand, the sensing area 105 is narrower than the sensing area 104 in the left-right direction.

[0116] The sensing result in the sensing area 105 is used for, for example, adaptive cruise control (ACC), emergency braking, collision avoidance, etc.

[0117] Note that the sensing areas of the respective sensors such as the camera 51, radar 52, LiDAR 53, and ultrasonic sensor 54 included in the external recognition sensor 25 can have various configurations other than those shown in Figure 2 Specifically, the ultrasonic sensor 54 can also perform sensing on the side of the vehicle 1, or the LiDAR 53 can perform sensing behind the vehicle 1. In addition, the installation position of each sensor is not limited to each corresponding example above. In addition, the number of each sensor can be one or more.

[0118] <<2. Background of the present technology>>

[0119] Next, the background of the present technology will be described with reference to Figures 3 to 5 Currently, the innovative optical and wireless network (IOWN) concept for building a new information and communication infrastructure for information and communication technology (ICT) is underway. The IOWN concept is a concept aimed at building an innovative network infrastructure and information processing infrastructure with high capacity, low latency, and low power consumption by using optoelectronic fusion technology. IOWN mainly includes the following three technical elements.

[0120] The first technical element is the all-photonic network (APN), in which photon (optical)-based technology is introduced from the network to the terminal. The second technical element is the cognitive foundation (CF (registered trademark)) that connects everything and enables its control. The third technical element is the digital twin computing (DTC (registered trademark)) that realizes future prediction by multiplying the real world and the digital world.

[0121] The first technical element is the all-photonic network (APN), in which photon (optical)-based technology is introduced from the network to the terminal. The second technical element is the cognitive foundation (CF (registered trademark)) that connects everything and enables its control. The third technical element is the digital twin computing (DTC (registered trademark)) that realizes future prediction by multiplying the real world and the digital world.

[0122] Figure 3Briefly shows an example of the data flow of the main ECU, entertainment system, and sensors of vehicle 1. Specifically, shows an example of the data flow between the main ECU that performs processing related to in-vehicle entertainment and the entertainment system, and an example of the data flow between the main ECU that performs processing related to autonomous driving and advanced safety technologies and the sensors.

[0123] The main ECU is a centralized information processing device with the highest computing power in vehicle 1.

[0124] The entertainment system is a system that performs processing related to in-vehicle entertainment such as moving images, music, and games and provides in-vehicle entertainment to the passengers of vehicle 1.

[0125] The sensors include, for example, camera 51, radar 52, LiDAR 53, ultrasonic sensor 54, in-vehicle sensor 55, etc.

[0126] For example, content data for in-vehicle entertainment is sent from the main ECU to the entertainment system. The content data has a large capacity and requires low latency.

[0127] Control data including operation commands, etc. through user operations is sent from the entertainment system to the main ECU. Compared with the content data, the control data has a very small capacity.

[0128] Therefore, in the in-vehicle entertainment system, the data volume on the downlink side from the main ECU to the entertainment ECU increases.

[0129] Various sensor data is sent from the sensors to the main ECU. The sensor data has a large capacity and requires low latency.

[0130] Control data including control commands, etc. for controlling the sensors is sent from the main ECU to the sensors. Compared with the sensor data, the control data has a very small capacity.

[0131] Therefore, in the autonomous driving / advanced safety technology system, the data volume on the uplink side from the sensors to the main ECU increases.

[0132] On the other hand, by introducing APN into at least a part of vehicle 1, data transmission with low latency and large capacity becomes possible. As a result, technologies that require low latency and large-capacity data transmission such as in-vehicle entertainment and autonomous driving / advanced safety technologies can be realized, and the reliability can be improved.

[0133] Figure 4 Shows a configuration example of the information processing system 201 that can be set in vehicle 1.

[0134] The information processing system 201 includes a main ECU 211, a camera ECU 212C, a radar ECU 212R, a LiDAR ECU 212L, an ultrasonic ECU 212U, and an entertainment (ENT) ECU 213.

[0135] Note that hereinafter, when it is not necessary to separately distinguish the main ECU 211, the camera ECU 212C, the radar ECU 212R, the LiDAR ECU 212L, and the ultrasonic ECU 212U, they are simply collectively referred to as the functional ECU 212. The functional ECU 212 is an ECU that only executes control of a predetermined function.

[0136] The main ECU 211, the camera ECU 212C, the radar ECU 212R, the LiDAR ECU 212L, and the ultrasonic ECU 212U are connected in a loop via an optical cable 221. Both ends of the ring-shaped optical communication path (hereinafter referred to as the optical communication loop) are connected to the main ECU 211. That is, the start end and the end end of the optical communication loop are set in the main ECU 211. The entertainment ECU 213 is connected to the optical communication loop via, for example, the optical cable 221 and a beam splitter (not shown).

[0137] Note that the optical communication path is a communication path for optical communication formed by, for example, an optical cable.

[0138] The main ECU 211 is the central computing processing device with the highest computing power in the vehicle 1. For example, the main ECU 211 provides control data to each functional ECU 212 and the entertainment ECU 213 via the optical cable 221, and controls each functional ECU 212 and the entertainment ECU 213. For example, the main ECU 211 receives sensor data from each functional ECU 212 via the optical cable 221, and performs control of the vehicle 1 based on the sensor data. For example, the main ECU 211 sends various content data to the entertainment ECU 213 via the optical cable 221. Note that the main ECU 211 may have a function of communicating with the outside of the vehicle 1.

[0139] The camera ECU 212C is connected to each camera 51 (not shown) provided in the vehicle 1 via a cable 222 (not shown). The camera ECU 212C controls each camera 51 and acquires sensor data from each camera 51. The camera ECU 212C converts the sensor data acquired from each camera 51 into a format to be transmitted by optical communication, and sends the sensor data to the main ECU 211 via the optical cable 221.

[0140] The radar ECU 212R is connected to each radar 52 (not shown) provided in the vehicle 1 via a cable 222 (not shown). The radar ECU 212R controls each radar 52 and acquires sensor data from each radar 52. The radar ECU 212R converts the sensor data acquired from each radar 52 into a format to be transmitted via optical communication, and provides the sensor data to the main ECU 211 via the optical cable 221.

[0141] The LiDAR ECU 212L is connected to each LiDAR 53 (in Figure 4 which, the front LiDAR 53F, the left LiDAR 53L, the right LiDAR 53R, and the rear LiDAR 53B) provided in the vehicle 1 via a cable 222. The LiDAR ECU 212L controls each LiDAR 53 and acquires sensor data from each LiDAR 53. The LiDAR ECU 212L converts the sensor data acquired from each LiDAR 53 into a format to be transmitted via optical communication, and provides the sensor data to the main ECU 211 via the optical cable 221.

[0142] The ultrasonic ECU 212U is connected to each ultrasonic sensor 54 (not shown) provided in the vehicle 1 via a cable 222 (not shown). The ultrasonic ECU 212U controls each ultrasonic sensor 54 and acquires sensor data from each ultrasonic sensor 54. The ultrasonic ECU 212U converts the sensor data acquired from each ultrasonic sensor 54 into a format to be transmitted via optical communication, and provides the sensor data to the main ECU 211 via the optical cable 221.

[0143] The entertainment ECU 213 is an ECU that controls processes related to various in-vehicle entertainments such as moving images, music, and games, for example. For example, the entertainment ECU 213 controls the entertainment system based on the content data provided from the main ECU 211, and provides in-vehicle entertainment.

[0144] Here, for example, by sending sensor data with different wavelengths (colors) from each functional ECU 212, each functional ECU 212 can send each sensor data simultaneously without conflict. For example, the wavelength of the sensor data sent from the camera ECU 212C is set to a predetermined wavelength within the red wavelength band (hereinafter referred to as the R wavelength). For example, the wavelength of the sensor data sent from the radar ECU 212R is set to a predetermined wavelength within the yellow wavelength band (hereinafter referred to as the Y wavelength). For example, the wavelength of the sensor data sent from the LiDAR ECU 212L is set to a predetermined wavelength within the green wavelength band (hereinafter referred to as the G wavelength). For example, the wavelength of the sensor data sent from the ultrasonic ECU 212U is set to a predetermined wavelength within the blue wavelength band (hereinafter referred to as the B wavelength).

[0145] In addition, for example, it is assumed that the wavelength of the content data sent from the main ECU 211 is set to a wavelength different from the wavelengths of the sensor data output from each functional ECU 212. As a result, the main ECU 211 can send the content data without conflicting with the respective sensor data.

[0146] However, the types of wavelengths (colors) of light that can be output by optical devices such as photoelectric conversion devices are limited. In addition, depending on the output wavelength, the cost of the optical device may increase. Therefore, it is desirable to suppress the types of wavelengths to be used.

[0147] On the other hand, for example, the main ECU 211 uses an unused wavelength among the wavelengths of the sensor data sent from each functional ECU 212 to send the content data, whereby the wavelength resources can be effectively used.

[0148] Figure 5 Shows the usage rate of the sensor data of each sensor by the main ECU 211 when the vehicle 1 turns right.

[0149] For example, when the vehicle 1 turns right, the usage rate of the sensor data for sensing the front area A1F in front of the vehicle 1 and the right area A1R in the right direction is almost 100%. On the other hand, the usage rate of the sensor data for sensing the left area A1L in the left direction of the vehicle 1 and the rear area A1B behind the vehicle 1 is almost 0%.

[0150] Therefore, when the vehicle 1 turns right, the usage rate of the sensor data of the camera 51, the radar 52, the LiDAR 53, and the ultrasonic sensor 54 is approximately 50%. Therefore, when the vehicle 1 turns right, since the usage rate of each sensor data is 50%, each functional ECU 212 cannot stop sending the sensor data and needs to continue sending.

[0151] Therefore, although the usage rate of each sensor data is approximately 50%, the main ECU 211 cannot divert the sensor data of any wavelength to the transmission of content data. As a result, the usage efficiency of wavelength resources is reduced.

[0152] On the other hand, the present technology improves the usage efficiency of wavelength resources and improves the reliability of data transmission.

[0153] <<3. Embodiment>>

[0154] Next, refer to Figures 6 to 22 Describe an embodiment of the present technology.

[0155] <First Embodiment of Information Processing System 301>

[0156] Figure 6 Shows a configuration example of an information processing system 301a which is the first embodiment of the information processing system 301 to which the present technology is applied.

[0157] The information processing system 301a is provided in the vehicle 1 and performs various types of information processing. The information processing system 301a includes various integrated ECUs. An integrated ECU is an ECU that controls multiple functions. Specifically, the information processing system 301a includes a main ECU 311 as an integrated ECU, a front area ECU 312F, a left area ECU 312L, a right area ECU

[0158] 312R and a rear area ECU 312B. In addition, the information processing system 301a includes an entertainment (ENT) ECU 313.

[0159] Note that hereinafter, when it is not necessary to separately distinguish between the front area ECU 312F and the rear area ECU 312B, they are simply referred to as the area ECU 312.

[0160] The main ECU 311 and each area ECU 312 are connected in a ring via an optical cable 321 to form an optical communication loop. Specifically, starting from the main ECU 311, the right area ECU

[0161] 312R, the rear area ECU 312B, the left area ECU 312L, and the front area ECU 312F are sequentially connected in the clockwise direction (right hand turn). Both ends of the optical communication loop are connected to the main ECU 311, and the start end and the end end of the optical communication loop are set in the main ECU 311. The main ECU 311 and each area ECU 312 on the optical communication loop are respectively connected to two optical communication paths in the clockwise and circular steering directions.

[0162] The entertainment ECU 313 is connected to the optical communication loop via, for example, an optical cable 321 and a beam splitter (not shown).

[0163] The main ECU 311, each zone ECU 312, and the entertainment ECU 313 perform end-to-end communication. Therefore, the main ECU 311 and each zone ECU 312 can send and receive data in both the clockwise and counterclockwise directions (the rotation directions of the two optical communication loops). The main ECU 311 and the entertainment ECU 313 can send and receive data in one direction.

[0164] Similar to Figure 3 the main ECU 211 in

[0165] The main ECU 311 is a centralized information processing device with the highest computing power in the vehicle 1. For example, the main ECU 311 sends control data to each zone ECU 312 and the entertainment ECU 313 via the optical cable 321 and controls each zone ECU 312 and the entertainment ECU 313. For example, the main ECU 311 controls the sending of sensor data (e.g., sending frequency, etc.) of each zone ECU 312 by providing tokens, etc. to each zone ECU 312 based on the state control of the vehicle 1.

[0166] For example, the main ECU 311 receives sensor data from each zone ECU 312 via the optical cable 321 and performs the control of the vehicle 1 based on the sensor data. For example, the main ECU 311 sends various content data to the entertainment ECU 313 via the optical cable 321. Note that the main ECU 311 may have a function of communicating with the outside of the vehicle 1.

[0167] Each zone ECU 312 is also referred to as a zone ECU. Each zone ECU 312 is an information processing device that is connected to sensors with a tight physical layout in the vehicle 1 via a cable 322 and performs the control of the sensors in an integrated manner.

[0168] Note that the sensors include, for example, a camera 51, a radar 52, a LiDAR 53, an ultrasonic sensor 54, an in-vehicle sensor 55, etc. Each sensor uses a different physical phenomenon but has high flatness. For example, in the case of sensor fusion, it is assumed that each sensor is arranged at physically (spatially) close positions.

[0169] The front zone ECU 312F integrally performs the control of the sensors provided in front of the vehicle 1 and mainly performs the sensing of the front zone A1F in front of the vehicle 1.

[0170] The left area ECU 312L overall controls the sensors provided on the left side of the vehicle 1 and mainly performs sensing of the left area A1L on the left side of the vehicle 1.

[0171] The right area ECU 312R overall controls the sensors provided on the right side of the vehicle 1 and mainly performs sensing of the right area A1R on the right side of the vehicle 1.

[0172] The rear area ECU 312B overall controls the sensors provided on the rear side of the vehicle 1 and mainly performs sensing of the rear area A1B on the rear side of the vehicle 1.

[0173] The entertainment ECU 313 is, for example, an ECU that controls processes related to various in-vehicle entertainments such as moving images, music, and games. For example, the entertainment ECU 313 controls the entertainment system based on the content data provided from the main ECU 311 and provides in-vehicle entertainment.

[0174] Each area ECU 312 sends sensor data at different wavelengths (colors) to prevent conflicts on the optical communication path. For example, the front area ECU 312F sends sensor data at the R wavelength. For example, the left area ECU 312L sends sensor data at the G wavelength. For example, the right area ECU 312R sends sensor data at the Y wavelength. For example, the rear area ECU 312B sends sensor data at the B wavelength.

[0175] Figure 7 An example of the usage rate of the sensor data of the sensors that perform sensing of each area of the vehicle 1 by the main ECU 311 is shown in the case where the vehicle 1 turns right.

[0176] In the case where the vehicle 1 turns right, the usage rate of the sensor data of the sensors that perform sensing of the front area A1F and the right area A1R increases. On the other hand, the usage rate of the sensor data of the sensors that perform sensing of the left area A1L and the rear area A1B decreases to almost 0%.

[0177] Therefore, for example, in the case where the vehicle 1 turns right, it is possible to stop sending sensor data from the left area ECU 312L and the rear area ECU 312B. Then, the wavelengths of the sensor data whose transmission has been stopped can be transferred to other applications.

[0178] Figure 8 An example of a method of redirecting the wavelengths of the sensor data whose transmission has been stopped to another application is shown.

[0179] Figure 8The column labeled "R (front)" indicates that the R wavelength is applied to the sensor data for the front region A1F. The column labeled "Y (right)" indicates that the Y wavelength is applied to the sensor data for the right region A1R. The column labeled "G (left)" indicates that the G wavelength is applied to the sensor data for the left region A1L. The column labeled "B (rear)" indicates that the B wavelength is applied to the sensor data for the rear region A1B. The horizontal axis represents time t.

[0180] In this example, the vehicle 1 goes straight until time t2. The vehicle 1 turns right during the period from time t2 to time t4. The vehicle 1 goes straight during the period from time t4 to time t6. The vehicle 1 turns left during the period from time t6 to time t8. The vehicle 1 goes straight during the period after time t8.

[0181] For example, the vehicle 1 mainly monitors the front region A1F when going straight. Therefore, when the vehicle 1 goes straight, the sensor data of the front region A1F is mainly used, and the sensor data of other regions becomes almost unnecessary.

[0182] For example, the vehicle 1 mainly monitors the front region A1F and the left region A1L during a left turn. Therefore, during the left turn of the vehicle 1, the sensor data of the front region A1F and the left region A1L are mainly used, and the sensor data of other regions is almost unnecessary.

[0183] For example, the vehicle 1 mainly monitors the front region A1F and the right region A1R during a right turn. Therefore, during the right turn of the vehicle 1, the sensor data of the front region A1F and the right region A1R are mainly used, and the sensor data of other regions is almost unnecessary.

[0184] For example, the vehicle 1 mainly monitors the rear region A1B during backward movement. Therefore, during the backward movement of the vehicle 1, the sensor data of the rear region A1B is mainly used, and the sensor data of other regions becomes almost unnecessary.

[0185] Therefore, in Figure 8 all periods, the sensor data of the front region A1F is used. That is, in Figure 8 all periods, the R wavelength is used for the sensor data of the front region A1F. Therefore, in Figure 8 all periods, the front region ECU 312F sends the sensor data of the R wavelength to the main ECU 311.

[0186] On the other hand, in Figure 8 all periods, the R wavelength cannot be used for applications other than the sensor data of the front region A1F.

[0187] When the vehicle 1 turns right, the sensor data of the right region A1R is used during the period from time t2 to time t4. That is, during the period from time t2 to time t4, the Y wavelength is used for the sensor data of the right region A1R. Therefore, during the period from time t2 to time t4, the right region ECU 312R sends the sensor data of the Y wavelength to the main ECU 311.

[0188] On the other hand, during the periods other than the period from time t2 to time t4, the Y wavelength can be used for applications other than the sensor data of the right region A1R. In this example, during the period after time t6, the Y wavelength is diverted (with diversion) to the content data of the movie. That is, during the period after time t6, the main ECU 311 uses the Y wavelength to send the content data of the movie to the entertainment ECU 313.

[0189] When the vehicle 1 turns left, the sensor data of the left region A1L is used during the period from time t6 to time t8. That is, during the period from time t6 to time t8, the G wavelength is used for the sensor data of the left region A1L. Therefore, during the period from time t6 to time t8, the left region ECU 312L sends the sensor data of the G wavelength to the main ECU 311.

[0190] On the other hand, during the periods other than the period from time t6 to time t8, the G wavelength can be used for applications other than the sensor data of the left region A1L. In this example, during the period until time t6, the G wavelength is diverted (with diversion) to the content data of the movie. That is, during the period until time t6, the main ECU 311 uses the G wavelength to send the content data of the movie to the entertainment ECU 313.

[0191] In Figure 8 all periods, the sensor data of the rear region A1B is not used. That is to say, in Figure 8 all periods, the B wavelength is not used for the sensor data of the rear region A1B. Therefore, in Figure 8 all periods, the rear region ECU 312B does not send the sensor data of the B wavelength to the main ECU 311.

[0192] On the other hand, in Figure 8 all periods, the B wavelength can be used for applications other than the sensor data of the rear region A1B. In this example, in Figure 8 all periods, the B wavelength is diverted (with diversion) to the content data of the game. That is, in Figure 8 all periods, the main ECU 311 uses the B wavelength to send the content data of the game to the entertainment ECU 313.

[0193] Here, specific examples of the steering method for each wavelength will be described.

[0194] For example, at the start of the process of Figure 8 , the main ECU 311 sends the content data of the movie of the G wavelength to the entertainment ECU 313, and sends the content data of the game of the B wavelength to the entertainment ECU 313. The front area ECU 312F sends the sensor data of the front area A1F of the R wavelength to the main ECU 311. The Y wavelength is not used.

[0195] At the moment t1 slightly earlier than the moment t2 when the vehicle 1 starts to turn right, the main ECU 311 sends control data to the right area ECU 312R at the G wavelength and gives a token to the right area ECU 312R. After that, the main ECU 311 resumes the process of sending the content data of the movie of the G wavelength to the entertainment ECU 313.

[0196] At the moment t2 when the vehicle 1 starts to turn right, the right area ECU 312R that has been given the token starts the process of sending the sensor data of the right area A1R to the main ECU 311 at the Y wavelength.

[0197] At the moment t3 slightly earlier than the moment t4 when the vehicle 1 completes turning right and starts to go straight, the main ECU 311 sends control data to the right area ECU 312R at the G wavelength and obtains the token from the right area ECU 312R. After that, the main ECU 311 resumes the process of sending the content data of the movie of the G wavelength to the entertainment ECU 313.

[0198] At the moment t4 when the vehicle 1 starts to go straight, the right area ECU 312R from which the token has been obtained stops sending the sensor data in the right area A1R.

[0199] At the moment t5 slightly earlier than the moment t6 when the vehicle 1 starts to turn left, the main ECU 311 sends control data to the left area ECU 312L at the G wavelength and gives a token to the left area ECU 312L. After that, the main ECU 311 stops the process of sending the content data of the movie of the G wavelength to the entertainment ECU 313.

[0200] At the moment t6 when the vehicle 1 starts to turn left, the left area ECU 312L that has been given the token starts the process of sending the sensor data of the left area A1L to the main ECU 311 at the G wavelength. In addition, the main ECU 311 starts the process of sending the content data of the movie of the Y wavelength to the entertainment ECU 313.

[0201] At a time t7 slightly earlier than a time t8 when the vehicle 1 completes a left turn and starts going straight, the main ECU 311 sends control data of the Y wavelength to the left area ECU 312L and acquires a token from the left area ECU 312L. Thereafter, the main ECU 311 resumes the process of sending content data of the movie of the Y wavelength to the entertainment ECU 313.

[0202] At the time t8 when the vehicle 1 starts going straight, the left area ECU 312L that has acquired the token stops sending sensor data in the left area A1L.

[0203] As described above, by applying optical communication to the vehicle 1, a large amount of data can be sent with low latency, and the reliability of data transmission is improved. In addition, by using optical communication instead of conventional electrical communication, low power consumption is achieved.

[0204] In addition, sensor data of each area is sent simultaneously without conflict, and the usage efficiency of the wavelength for sending each data is improved.

[0205] Note that, for example, sensor data of the wavelength for which the transmission of the content data is diverted can be sent intermittently. For example, in Figure 8 the example, the main ECU 311 can periodically pass the token to the area ECU 312B, and the area ECU 312B can periodically send sensor data of the B wavelength to the main ECU 311.

[0206] <Second Embodiment of the Information Processing System 301>

[0207] Figure 9 A configuration example of an information processing system 301b that is a second embodiment of the information processing system 301 to which the present technology is applied is shown. Note that in the drawings, parts corresponding to those of the information processing system 301a in Figure 6 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions will be appropriately omitted.

[0208] The dashed line of alternating long and short lengths in front of the driver's seat of the vehicle 1 indicates the boundary between the engine room in front of the vehicle 1 and the passenger compartment of the vehicle 1. For example, an iron plate and a sound-absorbing material are provided at the boundary portion in consideration of heat insulation, sound insulation, safety, etc. Note that the same applies to the subsequent drawings.

[0209] The information processing system 301b includes a main ECU 311, a front area ECU 312F, a left area ECU 312L, a right area ECU 312R, a left rear area ECU 312BL, a right rear area ECU 312BR, a top area ECU 312LF, a front entertainment ECU 313F, a rear entertainment ECU 313B, and a gateway ECU 314. The main ECU 311 and the top area ECU 312LF constitute a main unit 331.

[0210] Note that hereinafter, when it is not necessary to separately distinguish the front entertainment ECU 313F and the rear entertainment ECU 313B, they are simply referred to as the entertainment ECU 313.

[0211] The left rear area ECU 312BL integrally controls the sensors arranged on the left rear side of the vehicle 1 and mainly performs sensing of the left rear area of the vehicle 1.

[0212] The right rear area ECU 312BR integrally controls the sensors arranged on the right rear side of the vehicle 1 and mainly performs sensing of the right rear area of the vehicle 1.

[0213] The top area ECU 312LF integrally controls the sensors arranged on the top of the vehicle 1 and mainly performs sensing around the vehicle 1 from above.

[0214] The front entertainment ECU 313F is an ECU that controls the processing related to in-vehicle entertainment for the front seats of the vehicle 1. For example, the front entertainment ECU 313F controls the entertainment system based on the content data provided by the main ECU 311 and provides various in-vehicle entertainments to the passengers in the front seats.

[0215] The rear entertainment ECU 313B is an ECU that controls the processing related to in-vehicle entertainment for the seats behind the vehicle 1. For example, the rear entertainment ECU 313B controls the entertainment system based on the content data provided by the main ECU 311 and provides various in-vehicle entertainments to the passengers in the rear seats.

[0216] The gateway ECU 314 performs arbitration processing and the like between multiple systems of the communication network. For example, the gateway ECU 314 performs matching processing of communication speeds and communication protocols between the communication networks of different systems, filtering processing of unnecessary data, and the like.

[0217] The communication networks of multiple systems include, for example, a driving communication network and a non-driving communication network. The driving communication network is, for example, the communication network of a system that performs engine control, motor control, brake control, steering control, and the like. The non-driving communication network is, for example, the communication network of a system that controls an in-vehicle entertainment system, an automotive navigation system, a body system, and the like.

[0218] The main unit 331 is arranged, for example, in the space provided at the top of the vehicle 1. The front area ECU 312F is provided, for example, in front of the engine room of the vehicle 1. The left area ECU 312L is provided, for example, on the left side of the engine room of the vehicle 1. The right area ECU 312R is arranged, for example, on the right side of the engine room of the vehicle 1. The gateway ECU 314 is provided, for example, at the center of the engine room of the vehicle 1. The left rear area ECU 312BL is provided, for example, at the left rear side of the vehicle 1. The right rear area ECU 312BR is provided, for example, at the right rear side of the vehicle 1. The front entertainment ECU 313F is provided, for example, in the front of the vehicle interior. The rear entertainment ECU 313B is provided, for example, at the rear side of the vehicle.

[0219] The main ECU 311 and each area ECU 312 are connected in a ring via the optical cable 321 to form an optical communication loop. Specifically, starting from the main ECU 311, the left area ECU 312L, the front area ECU 312F, the right area ECU 312R, the right rear area ECU

[0220] 312BR and the left rear area ECU 312BL are connected in sequence in the clockwise direction (right hand rotation). Both ends of the optical communication loop are connected to the main ECU 311, and the start end and the end end of the optical communication loop are set in the main ECU 311. The main ECU 311 and each area ECU 312 on the optical communication loop are respectively connected to two optical communication paths in the clockwise and counterclockwise directions.

[0221] For example, the top area ECU 312LF is directly connected to the main ECU 311 without an optical communication loop.

[0222] Note that the top area ECU 312LF can be connected to the optical communication loop. In addition, for example, the main ECU 311 and the top area ECU 312LF can be integrated to form one ECU.

[0223] Each entertainment ECU 313 is connected to the optical communication loop via, for example, the optical cable 321 and a beam splitter (not shown).

[0224] The gateway ECU 314 is connected to the left area ECU 312L and the right area ECU 312R via the cable 322. That is, the gateway ECU 314 is connected to the information processing system 301b via the electrical communication paths of two systems.

[0225] Note that the electrical communication path is a communication path for electrical communication formed by, for example, a cable.

[0226] The main ECU 311, each regional ECU 312, and each entertainment ECU 313 perform end-to-end communication. Therefore, the main ECU 311 and each regional ECU 312 on the optical communication loop can send and receive data in the clockwise and counterclockwise directions respectively. The main ECU 311 and each entertainment ECU 313 can send and receive data in one direction.

[0227] For example, the front regional ECU 312F sends sensor data of the R wavelength to the main ECU 311. For example, the left regional ECU 312L sends sensor data of the G wavelength to the main ECU 311. For example, the right regional ECU 312R sends sensor data of the Y wavelength to the main ECU 311. For example, the left rear regional ECU 312BL sends sensor data of the B wavelength to the main ECU 311. For example, the right rear regional ECU 312BR sends sensor data to the main ECU 311 at a predetermined wavelength within the purple wavelength band (hereinafter referred to as the P wavelength).

[0228] Therefore, each regional ECU 312 can send sensor data to the main ECU 311 simultaneously without interference. In addition, the main ECU 311 can send content data to each entertainment ECU 313 by using wavelengths not used for the transmission of sensor data.

[0229] Note that since the top regional ECU 312LF communicates directly with the main ECU 311, there is no restriction on the wavelength for sending sensor data.

[0230] As described above, in the information processing system 301b, compared with the information processing system 301a, the number of regional ECUs 312 increases. Therefore, the information processing system 301b can sense the surroundings of the vehicle 1 in more detail.

[0231] <The Third Embodiment of the Information Processing System 301>

[0232] Figure 10 A configuration example of an information processing system 301c, which is the third embodiment of the information processing system 301 to which the present technology is applied, is shown. Note that in the drawings, parts corresponding to the parts of the information processing system 301b in Figure 9 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions will be appropriately omitted.

[0233] The information processing system 301c is different from the information processing system 301b in that a rear regional ECU 312B is provided instead of the left rear regional ECU 312BL and the right rear regional ECU 312BR.

[0234] The main unit 331, the front area ECU 312F, the left area ECU 312L, the right area ECU 312R, the front entertainment ECU 313F, the rear entertainment ECU 313B, and the gateway ECU 314 are arranged at positions similar to those of the information processing system 301b in Figure 9 . For example, the rear area ECU 312B is provided at the rear side of the vehicle 1.

[0235] The main ECU 311, the front area ECU 312F, the left area ECU 312L, and the right area ECU 312R are connected in a ring shape by an optical cable 321 to form an optical communication loop. Specifically, starting from the main ECU 311, the left area ECU 312L, the front area ECU 312F, and the right area ECU 312R are connected in sequence in the clockwise direction (turning right). Both ends of the optical communication loop are connected to the main ECU 311, and the start end and the end end of the optical communication loop are set in the main ECU 311. The main ECU 311 and each area ECU 312 on the optical communication loop are respectively connected to two optical communication paths in the clockwise and counterclockwise directions.

[0236] For example, the top area ECU 312LF is directly connected to the main ECU 311 without an optical communication loop.

[0237] Note that the top area ECU 312LF can be connected to the optical communication loop. In addition, for example, the main ECU 311 and the top area ECU 312LF can be integrated to form one ECU.

[0238] The rear area ECU 312B and each entertainment ECU 313 are connected to the optical communication loop through, for example, an optical cable 321 and a beam splitter (not shown).

[0239] The gateway ECU 314 is connected to the front area ECU 312F and the right area ECU 312R via a cable 322. That is, the gateway ECU 314 is connected to the information processing system 301b via the electrical communication paths of two systems.

[0240] The main ECU 311, each area ECU 312, and each entertainment ECU 313 perform end-to-end communication. Therefore, the main ECU 311 and each area ECU 312 on the optical communication loop can respectively send and receive data in the clockwise and counterclockwise directions. The main ECU 311, the rear area ECU 312B, and each entertainment ECU 313 can send and receive data in one direction.

[0241] For example, the front area ECU 312F sends the sensor data of the R wavelength to the main ECU 311. For example, the left area ECU 312L sends the sensor data of the G wavelength to the main ECU 311. For example, the right area ECU 312R sends the sensor data of the Y wavelength to the main ECU 311. For example, the rear area ECU 312B sends the sensor data of the B wavelength to the main ECU 311.

[0242] Therefore, each area ECU 312 can simultaneously send the sensor data to the main ECU 311 without interference. In addition, the main ECU 311 can send the content data to each entertainment ECU 313 by using the wavelength that is not used for the transmission of the sensor data.

[0243] Note that since the top area ECU 312LF communicates directly with the main ECU 311, there is no restriction on the wavelength for sending the sensor data.

[0244] As described above, in the information processing system 301c, compared with the information processing system 301b, the number of area ECUs 312 in the vehicle 1 where the necessity of sensing is lower than that in other areas at the rear side is reduced. Therefore, for example, the necessary cost is reduced, or the types of wavelengths used for data transmission are reduced.

[0245] <Fourth Embodiment of the Information Processing System 301>

[0246] Figure 11 A configuration example of an information processing system 301d which is the fourth embodiment of the information processing system 301 to which the present technology is applied is shown. Note that in the drawings, the parts corresponding to the parts of the information processing system 301c in Figure 10 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will be appropriately omitted.

[0247] The information processing system 301d is different from the information processing system 301c in that the top area ECU 312LF is deleted. In addition, it is different in that the main unit 341 is configured by the main ECU 311 and the front entertainment ECU 313F.

[0248] The front area ECU 312F, the left area ECU 312L, the right area ECU 312R, the rear area ECU 312B, the rear entertainment ECU 313B, and the gateway ECU 314 are arranged at positions similar to those of the information processing system 301c in Figure 10 The main unit 341 is configured at the front part inside the vehicle, for example.

[0249] The main ECU 311, the front area ECU 312F, the left area ECU 312L, and the right area ECU 312R are connected in a ring shape through the optical cable 321 to form an optical communication loop. Specifically, starting from the main ECU 311, the left area ECU 312L, the front area ECU 312F, and the right area ECU 312R are connected in sequence in the clockwise direction (right hand rotation). Both ends of the optical communication loop are connected to the main ECU 311, and the start end and the end end of the optical communication loop are set in the main ECU 311. The main ECU 311 and each area ECU 312 on the optical communication loop are respectively connected to two optical communication paths in the clockwise and counterclockwise directions.

[0250] The front entertainment ECU 313F is directly connected to the main ECU 311, for example, in the absence of an optical communication loop.

[0251] Note that the front entertainment ECU 313F can be connected to the optical communication loop. In addition, for example, the main ECU 311 and the front entertainment ECU 313F can be integrated to form one ECU.

[0252] The rear area ECU 312B and the rear entertainment ECU 313B are connected to the optical communication loop through, for example, the optical cable 321 and a beam splitter (not shown).

[0253] The gateway ECU 314 is connected to the front area ECU 312F through two cables 322. That is, the gateway ECU 314 is connected to the information processing system 301d via the electrical communication paths of two systems.

[0254] The main ECU 311, each area ECU 312, and each entertainment ECU 313 perform end-to-end communication. Therefore, the main ECU 311 and each area ECU 312 on the optical communication loop can respectively send and receive data in the clockwise and counterclockwise directions. The main ECU 311, the rear area ECU 312B, and the rear entertainment ECU 313B can send and receive data in one direction.

[0255] For example, the front area ECU 312F sends the sensor data of the R wavelength to the main ECU 311. For example, the left area ECU 312L sends the sensor data of the G wavelength to the main ECU 311. For example, the right area ECU 312R sends the sensor data of the Y wavelength to the main ECU 311. For example, the rear area ECU 312B sends the sensor data of the B wavelength to the main ECU 311.

[0256] Therefore, each regional ECU 312 can simultaneously send sensor data to the main ECU 311 without interference. In addition, the main ECU 311 can send content data to each entertainment ECU 313 by using a wavelength that is not used for sending sensor data.

[0257] As described above, in the information processing system 301d, compared with the information processing system 301c, the number of regional ECUs 312 is reduced. Therefore, for example, the necessary cost is reduced, or the types of wavelengths used for data transmission are reduced.

[0258] <Fifth Embodiment of Information Processing System 301>

[0259] Figure 12 FIG. shows a configuration example of an information processing system 301e as a fifth embodiment of the information processing system 301 to which the present technology is applied. Note that in the drawings, parts corresponding to those of the information processing system 301d in Figure 11 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions will be appropriately omitted.

[0260] The information processing system 301e is different from the information processing system 301d in that the main unit 351 is configured by the main ECU 311 and the right regional ECU 312R, and the front entertainment ECU 313F is provided independently.

[0261] The front regional ECU 312F, the left regional ECU 312L, the rear regional ECU 312B, the rear entertainment ECU 313B, and the gateway ECU 314 are arranged at positions similar to those of the Figure 11 information processing system 301d in. The front entertainment ECU 313F is arranged at a position similar to that of the Figure 9 information processing system 301b in. The main unit 351 is provided, for example, on the right side of the engine room of the vehicle 1.

[0262] The main ECU 311, the front regional ECU 312F, and the left regional ECU 312L are connected in a ring shape through an optical cable 321 to form an optical communication loop. Specifically, starting from the main ECU 311, the left regional ECU 312L and the front regional ECU 312F are connected in sequence in the clockwise direction (right hand rotation). Both ends of the optical communication loop are connected to the main ECU 311, and the start end and the end end of the optical communication loop are set in the main ECU 311. The main ECU 311 and each regional ECU 312 on the optical communication loop are respectively connected to two optical communication paths in the clockwise and counterclockwise directions.

[0263] For example, the right regional ECU 312R is directly connected to the main ECU 311 without an optical communication loop.

[0264] Note that the right area ECU 312R can be connected to the optical communication loop. In addition, for example, the main ECU 311 and the right area ECU 312R can be integrated to form one ECU.

[0265] The rear area ECU 312B and each entertainment ECU 313 are connected to the optical communication loop via, for example, an optical cable 321 and a beam splitter (not shown).

[0266] The gateway ECU 314 is connected to the main ECU 311 via two cables 322. The gateway ECU 314 is connected to the front area ECU 312F via a cable 322. That is, the gateway ECU 314 is connected to the information processing system 301d via the electrical communication paths of three systems.

[0267] The main ECU 311, each area ECU 312, and each entertainment ECU 313 perform end-to-end communication. Therefore, the main ECU 311 and each area ECU 312 on the optical communication loop can respectively transmit and receive data in the clockwise and counterclockwise directions. The main ECU 311, the rear area ECU 312B, and each entertainment ECU 313 can transmit and receive data in one direction.

[0268] For example, the front area ECU 312F transmits sensor data of the R wavelength to the main ECU 311. For example, the left area ECU 312L transmits sensor data of the G wavelength to the main ECU 311. For example, the rear area ECU 312B transmits sensor data of the B wavelength to the main ECU 311.

[0269] Therefore, each area ECU 312 can simultaneously transmit sensor data to the main ECU 311 without interference. In addition, the main ECU 311 can transmit content data to each entertainment ECU 313 by using wavelengths not used for the transmission of sensor data.

[0270] Note that since the right area ECU 312R communicates directly with the main ECU 311, there is no restriction on the wavelength for transmitting sensor data.

[0271] As described above, in the information processing system 301e, the optical communication loop is closed in the engine room. Therefore, the number of electric wires between the passenger compartment and the engine room of the vehicle 1 can be reduced, and the number of holes for electric wires in the iron plate between the passenger compartment and the engine room can be reduced.

[0272] <Data flow in the information processing system 301>

[0273] Next, reference will be made to Figures 13 to 15 Specifically describe the data flow in the information processing system 301.

[0274] Figures 13 to 15 schematically shows Figure 12 the connection method of the ECU of the information processing system 301e in

[0275] In the figure, the area ECU 312 connected to the optical communication loop is called the area ECU 312a. For example, the front area ECU 312F and the left area ECU 312L of the information processing system 301e correspond to the area ECU 312a.

[0276] In addition, the area ECU 312 not connected to the optical communication loop is called the area ECU 312b. For example, the rear area ECU 312B of the information processing system 301e corresponds to the area ECU 312b.

[0277] The main ECU 311 and the area ECU 312a constitute a redundant system network. The redundant system network is a network in which each ECU is connected to the optical communication paths of two or more systems, and even if an abnormality occurs in the optical communication path of one system, data can be transmitted via other optical communication paths. For example, a redundant system network is provided so that the vehicle 1 satisfies a predetermined level of automotive safety integrity level (ASIL).

[0278] The area ECU 312b, the front entertainment ECU 313F, and the rear entertainment ECU 313B constitute a non-redundant system network. The non-redundant system network is a network in which each ECU is connected to the optical communication path of one system and stops data transmission when an abnormality occurs in the optical communication path.

[0279] The area ECU 312a is connected to the main ECU 311 via the optical cable 321 in the clockwise direction. The area ECU 312a is connected to the main ECU 311 via the optical cable 321 and the beam splitter 371-1 in the counterclockwise direction.

[0280] The beam splitter 371-1 is connected to the beam splitter 371-2 via the optical cable 321. The front entertainment ECU 313F is connected to the beam splitter 371-2 via the optical cable 321. The beam splitter 371-2 is connected to the beam splitter 371-3 via the optical cable 321. The rear entertainment ECU 313B is connected to the beam splitter 371-3 via the optical cable 321. The area ECU 312b is connected to the beam splitter 371-3 via the optical cable 321.

[0281] As Figure 13As shown, the data sent clockwise from the main ECU 311 is transmitted by the beam splitter 371-1 and reflected by the beam splitter 371-1. The data transmitted by the beam splitter 371-1 is received by the area ECU 312a and transmitted by the area ECU 312a. The data transmitted by the area ECU 312a returns to the main ECU 311.

[0282] The data reflected by the beam splitter 371-1 is transmitted by the beam splitter 371-2 and reflected by the beam splitter 371-2. The data reflected by the beam splitter 371-2 is received by the front entertainment ECU 313F. The data transmitted by the beam splitter 371-2 is transmitted by the beam splitter 371-3 and reflected by the beam splitter 371-3. The data reflected by the beam splitter 371-3 is received by the rear entertainment ECU 313B. The data transmitted by the beam splitter 371-3 is received by the area ECU 312b.

[0283] As Figure 13 shown, the data sent counterclockwise from the main ECU 311 is received by the area ECU 312a and transmitted by the area ECU 312a. The data transmitted by the area ECU 312a is transmitted by the beam splitter 371-1 and returns to the main ECU 311.

[0284] As described above, the main ECU 311 can send data in both rotational directions of the optical communication loop. In addition, the area ECU 312a can receive the data sent from the main ECU 311 in any rotational direction of the optical communication loop. On the other hand, the area ECU 312b, the front entertainment ECU 313F, and the rear entertainment ECU 313B only receive the data sent from the main ECU 311b in the clockwise direction of the optical communication loop. Note that the data sent from the main ECU 311 in each rotational direction of the optical communication loop has different directivities and can thus be separated without interference.

[0285] As Figure 14 shown, the data sent clockwise from the area ECU 312a is received by the main ECU 311. In addition, the data sent counterclockwise from the area ECU 312a is transmitted by the beam splitter 371-1 and received by the main ECU 311.

[0286] As described above, the area ECU 312a can send data in both rotational directions of the optical communication loop. In addition, the main ECU 311 can receive the data sent from the area ECU 312a in any rotational direction of the optical communication loop. On the other hand, the area ECU 312b, the front entertainment ECU 313F, and the rear entertainment ECU 313B do not receive the data sent from the area ECU 312a.

[0287] AsFigure 15 As shown, the data sent from the regional ECU 312b is sent through the beam splitters 371-3 and 371-2, and is reflected clockwise by the beam splitter 371-1. The data reflected by the beam splitter 371-1 is received by the main ECU 311.

[0288] As Figure 15 shown, the data sent from the front entertainment ECU 313F is reflected counterclockwise by the beam splitter 371-2. The data reflected by the beam splitter 371-2 is reflected clockwise by the beam splitter 371-1, and is received by the main ECU 311.

[0289] As Figure 15 shown, the data sent from the rear entertainment ECU 313B is reflected counterclockwise by the beam splitter 371-3. The data reflected by the beam splitter 371-3 is sent through the beam splitter 371-2, is reflected clockwise by the beam splitter 371-1, and is received by the main ECU 311.

[0290] As described above, the main ECU 311 can receive the data sent from the regional ECU 312b, the front entertainment ECU 313F, and the rear entertainment ECU 313B in the counterclockwise direction along the optical communication loop.

[0291] As described above, the data sent clockwise from the main ECU 311 is received by all ECUs and returned to the main ECU 311. In addition, the data sent counterclockwise from the main ECU 311 is received by the regional ECU 312a in the optical communication loop and returned to the main ECU 311.

[0292] Therefore, since the main ECU 311 sends the same data clockwise and counterclockwise, even if an abnormality such as disconnection occurs in the optical communication loop, the regional ECU 312a can reliably receive the data from the main ECU 311. In addition, the main ECU 311 can detect the abnormality of the optical communication loop based on whether the sent data is returned.

[0293] The data sent from the regional ECU 312a is received only by the main ECU 311, regardless of the sending direction.

[0294] Therefore, since the regional ECU 312a sends the same data clockwise and counterclockwise, even if an abnormality such as disconnection occurs in the optical communication loop, the main ECU 311 can reliably receive the data from the regional ECU 312a.

[0295] Data transmitted from each of the zone ECU 312b, the front entertainment ECU 313F, and the rear entertainment ECU 313B is transmitted in a direction opposite to the direction of receiving data from the main ECU 311 and is received only by the main ECU 311.

[0296] For example, in the case where any ECU in the non-redundant system network performs data transmission occupying the entire frequency band due to an error or the like, there is a possibility that counterclockwise directional data transmission becomes difficult in the optical communication loop. On the other hand, in the optical communication loop, data transmission in the clockwise direction with a different directionality can continue. Therefore, for example, the main ECU 311 and the zone ECU 312a can continue communication using clockwise data.

[0297] <Configuration example of the main ECU 311>

[0298] Figure 16 The configuration example of the main ECU 311 is illustrated.

[0299] The main ECU 311 includes an SoC 401, a photoelectric conversion element 402A, and a photoelectric conversion element 402B.

[0300] The SoC 401 is connected to the optical cable 321A via the photoelectric conversion element 402A and is connected to the optical cable 321B via the photoelectric conversion element 402B.

[0301] The SoC 401 can transmit data to the outside and receive data from the outside via the photoelectric conversion element 402A and the optical cable 321A. The SoC 401 can transmit data to the outside and receive data from the outside via the photoelectric conversion element 402B and the optical cable 321B. Therefore, the SoC 401 can transmit and receive data via the optical communication paths of two systems.

[0302] <Configuration example of the zone ECU 312a>

[0303] Figure 17 The configuration example of the zone ECU 312a is shown.

[0304] The zone ECU 312a includes an SoC 421, a photoelectric conversion element 422A, a photoelectric conversion element 422B, a beam splitter 423A, and a beam splitter 423B.

[0305] The SoC 421 is connected to the optical cable 321A via the photoelectric conversion element 422A and the beam splitter 423A. The SoC 421 is connected to the optical cable 321B via the photoelectric conversion element 422B and the beam splitter 423B. That is, the zone ECU 312a includes photoelectric conversion elements and beam splitters for each system of the optical communication path.

[0306] Data output from the SoC 421 via the optoelectronic conversion element 422A is reflected by the beam splitter 423A and input to the optical cable 321A.

[0307] Data output from the SoC 421 via the optoelectronic conversion element 422B is reflected by the beam splitter 423B and input to the optical cable 321B.

[0308] Data input to the area ECU 312a from the optical cable 321A is transmitted by the beam splitter 423A and reflected by the beam splitter 423A. The data transmitted by the beam splitter 423A is further transmitted by the beam splitter 423B and input to the optical cable 321B. The data reflected by the beam splitter 423A is input to the SoC 421 via the optoelectronic conversion element 422A.

[0309] Data input to the area ECU 312a from the optical cable 321B is transmitted by the beam splitter 423B and reflected by the beam splitter 423B. The data transmitted by the beam splitter 423B is further transmitted by the beam splitter 423A and input to the optical cable 321A. The data reflected by the beam splitter 423B is input to the SoC 421 via the optoelectronic conversion element 422B.

[0310] As described above, the area ECU 312a can transmit and receive data via the optical communication paths of two systems, namely, the optical communication path including the optical cable 321A and the optical communication path including the optical cable 321B. In addition, the area ECU 312a can transmit the data received from the optical communication path including the optical cable 321A as it is and transfer the data to the optical communication path including the optical cable 321B. Similarly, the area ECU 312a can transmit the data received from the optical communication path including the optical cable 321B as it is and transfer the data to the optical communication path including the optical cable 321A.

[0311] <Configuration example of the area ECU 312b>

[0312] Figure 18 A configuration example of the area ECU 312b is shown.

[0313] The area ECU 312b includes the SoC 451 and the optoelectronic conversion element 452.

[0314] The SoC 451 is connected to the optical cable 321 via the optoelectronic conversion element 452.

[0315] Data output from the SoC 451 via the optoelectronic conversion element 452 is input to the optical cable 321. In addition, data input from the optical cable 321 is input to the SoC 451 via the optoelectronic conversion element 452.

[0316] <Configuration example of the entertainment ECU 313>

[0317] Figure 19 Shows a configuration example of the entertainment ECU 313.

[0318] The entertainment ECU 313 includes the SoC 471 and the optoelectronic conversion element 472. The entertainment ECU 313 has a configuration similar to that of the area ECU 312b.

[0319] The SoC 471 is connected to the optical cable 321A via the optoelectronic conversion element 472.

[0320] The optical cables 321A to 321C are respectively connected to the beam splitter 371.

[0321] The data output from the SoC 461 to the optical cable 321A via the optoelectronic conversion element 472 is input to the beam splitter 371. The data input to the beam splitter 371 is reflected in the direction of the optical cable 321B and input to the optical cable 321B.

[0322] The data input to the beam splitter 371 from the optical cable 321B is transmitted through the beam splitter 371 and reflected by the beam splitter 371. The data transmitted through the beam splitter 371 is directly input to the optical cable 321C. The data reflected by the beam splitter 371 is input to the SoC 461 via the optical cable 321A and the optoelectronic conversion element 462.

[0323] The data input to the beam splitter 371 from the optical cable 321C is transmitted through the beam splitter 371 and directly input to the optical cable 321B.

[0324] In this way, the entertainment ECU 313 can send data only to the optical communication path including the optical cable 321B. In addition, the entertainment ECU 313 can receive data only from the optical communication path including the optical cable 321B.

[0325] Note that a part of the data received from the optical communication path including the optical cable 321B is directly transmitted to the optical communication path including the optical cable 321C. The data input from the optical communication path including the optical cable 321C is directly transmitted to the optical communication path including the optical cable 321B.

[0326] <Configuration example of EUC>

[0327] Figure 20 A to C of shows the configuration examples of the ECUs applicable to the main ECU 311, the area ECU 312, and the entertainment ECU 313.

[0328] Figure 20 The ECU 501a in A of includes the SoC 511, the optoelectronic conversion element 512, and the cable 513.

[0329] The SoC 511 and the photoelectric conversion element 512 are connected via a cable 513. The photoelectric conversion element 512 is connected to the optical cable 321.

[0330] In the ECU 501a, internal communication is performed via an electrical signal. In addition, the SoC 511 performs information processing via an electrical signal.

[0331] Figure 20 The ECU 501b in B includes the SoC 531 and the photoelectric conversion element 532.

[0332] The SoC 531 is directly connected to the photoelectric conversion element 532. The photoelectric conversion element 512 is connected to the optical cable 321.

[0333] In the ECU 501b, internal communication is performed via an optical signal. In addition, the SoC 531 performs information processing via an electrical signal.

[0334] Figure 20 The ECU 501c in C includes the SoC 551.

[0335] The SoC 551 is directly connected to the optical cable 321. The SoC 531 performs information processing via an optical signal. That is, the ECU 501c performs all information processing via an optical signal.

[0336] <Sixth Embodiment of the Information Processing System 301>

[0337] Figure 21 FIG. shows a configuration example of the information processing system 301f as the sixth embodiment of the information processing system 301 to which the present technology is applied. Note that in the drawings, parts corresponding to those of the information processing system 301d in Figure 11 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions will be appropriately omitted.

[0338] The information processing system 301f is different from the information processing system 301d in that it includes a left front area ECU 312FL, a right front area ECU 312FR, a left rear area ECU 312BL, and a right rear area ECU 312BR instead of the front area ECU 312F, the left area ECU 12L, the right area ECU 312R, and the rear area ECU 312B.

[0339] The left front area ECU 312FL is provided, for example, on the left front side in the engine room of the vehicle 1. The left front area ECU 312FL integrally controls the sensors provided on the left front side of the vehicle 1, and mainly performs sensing in the left front area A11FL on the left front side of the vehicle 1. The left front area A11FL covers an area of 270 degrees or more on the left front side of the vehicle 1.

[0340] The right front area ECU 312FR is provided, for example, on the right front side in the engine room of the vehicle 1. The right front area ECU 312FR overall controls each sensor provided on the right front side of the vehicle 1, and mainly senses the right front area A11FR on the right front side of the vehicle 1. The right front area A11FR covers an area of 270 degrees or more on the right front side of the vehicle 1.

[0341] The left rear area ECU 312BL is provided, for example, on the left rear side of the vehicle 1. The left rear area ECU 312BL overall controls each sensor arranged on the left rear side of the vehicle 1, and mainly senses the left rear area A11BL of the vehicle 1. The left rear area A11BL covers an area of 270 degrees or more on the left rear side of the vehicle 1.

[0342] The right rear area ECU 312BR is provided, for example, on the right rear side of the vehicle 1. The right rear area ECU 312BR overall executes the control of each sensor arranged on the right rear side of the vehicle 1, and mainly executes the sensing of the right rear area A11BR of the vehicle 1. The right rear area A11BR covers an area of 270 degrees or more on the right rear side of the vehicle 1.

[0343] The left front area ECU 312FL, the main ECU 311, and the right rear area ECU 312BR are connected via the optical cable 321A. That is, the left front area ECU 312FL and the right rear area ECU 312BR, which are basically provided on the diagonal line of the vehicle 1, are connected to the main ECU 311 via the first optical communication path. The rear entertainment ECU 313B is connected to the first optical communication path via the optical cable 321A and a beam splitter (not shown).

[0344] The right front area ECU 312FR, the main ECU 311, and the left rear area ECU 312BL are connected via the optical cable 321B. That is to say, the right front area ECU 312FR and the left rear area ECU 312BL, which are basically provided on the diagonal line of the vehicle 1, are connected to the main ECU 311 via the second optical communication path.

[0345] The gateway ECU 314 is connected to the left front area ECU 312FL and the right front area ECU 312FR via the cable 322. That is, the gateway ECU 314 is connected to the information processing system 301f via the electrical communication paths of two systems.

[0346] As described above, the area ECUs 312 existing on the diagonal line of the vehicle 1 are connected to the same optical communication path in pairs. That is, the left front area ECU 312FL and the right rear area ECU 312BR are connected to the same optical communication path in pairs. The right front area ECU 312FR and the left rear area ECU 312BL are connected to the same optical communication path in pairs.

[0347] As described above, the regional ECUs 312 are arranged in an X layout via the optical communication paths of the two systems and are redundant. Therefore, for example, even if an abnormality occurs in one of the optical communication paths, it is possible to continue sensing in all directions of the vehicle 1 and continue autonomous driving using one of the optical communication paths.

[0348] For example, even if an abnormality occurs in the optical cable 321B, it is possible to continue sensing in all directions including the left front side and the right rear side of the vehicle 1 using the left front regional ECU 312FL and the right rear regional ECU 312BR, and it is possible to continue autonomous driving. For example, even if an abnormality occurs in the optical cable 321A, it is possible to continue sensing in all directions including the right front side and the left rear side of the vehicle 1 using the right front regional ECU 312FR and the left rear regional ECU 312BL, and continue autonomous driving.

[0349] In addition, wavelengths used by each regional ECU 312 can be set for each optical communication path of each system. That is, the same wavelength can be used between different optical communication paths.

[0350] For example, the left front regional ECU 312FL uses the R wavelength, while the right rear regional ECU 312BR uses the B wavelength. In addition, the right front regional ECU 312FR uses the R wavelength, and the left rear regional ECU 312BL uses the B wavelength. Therefore, the number of types of wavelengths used throughout the vehicle 1 can be reduced.

[0351] <Method of adding the information processing system 301>

[0352] Next, a method of adding the information processing system 301 will be described with reference to Figure 22 Describe the method of adding the information processing system 301.

[0353] For example, it is assumed that the information processing system 301 providing the above-described autonomous driving function and entertainment function is provided in a form to be added (attached) to the vehicle later.

[0354] For example, by adding the information processing system 301 to a sold vehicle, the autonomous driving function or the entertainment function can be added to the sold vehicle later.

[0355] For example, it is assumed that the vehicle grade is classified according to the presence or absence of the information processing system 301. For example, it is assumed that the information processing system 301 is not set in a low-grade vehicle without the autonomous driving function or the entertainment function, and the information processing system 301 is set in a high-grade vehicle with the autonomous driving function or the entertainment function. Therefore, this makes it possible to change the vehicle grade according to the presence or absence of the information processing system while sharing the basic system.

[0356] Figure 22 An example of a method for adding an information processing system 301 to an existing vehicle control system 601 is shown. Note that in the drawings, parts corresponding to those of the information processing system 301a in Figure 6 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions will be appropriately omitted.

[0357] The vehicle control system 601 includes a power unit system network 611, a body system network 612, and a gateway ECU 613.

[0358] The power unit system network 611 is constituted by a network such as CAN based on conventional electric communication. In the power unit system network 611, an engine ECU 621 and a brake ECU 622 are connected via a cable 641. In addition, the power unit system network 611 is connected to the gateway ECU 613 via the cable 641.

[0359] The engine ECU 621 controls the engine of the vehicle 1. The brake ECU 622 controls the brakes of the vehicle 1.

[0360] The body system network 612 includes a network such as CAN mainly configured by conventional electric communication. In the body system network 612, a body ECU 631 and a navigation audio ECU 632 are connected via a cable 642. In addition, the body system network 612 is connected to the gateway ECU 613 via the cable 642.

[0361] The body ECU 631 controls the body system of the vehicle 1. The navigation audio ECU 632 controls the navigation system and the audio system of the vehicle 1.

[0362] The vehicle control system 601 and the information processing system 301 are connected via a cable 602, for example. Specifically, the gateway ECU 613 of the vehicle control system 601 and the gateway ECU 314 of the information processing system 301 are connected via the cable 602. Therefore, through the arbitration process of the gateway ECU 613 and the gateway ECU 314, data can be transmitted and received between the vehicle control system 601 and the information processing system 301.

[0363] In this way, the information processing system 301 can be added to the existing vehicle control system 601.

[0364] <<4. Modifications>>

[0365] In the following description, modifications of the above embodiments of the present technology are explained.

[0366] From the above Figure 3It can be clearly seen that the amount of control data sent from the main ECU 311 to each regional ECU 312 is reduced. Therefore, for example, the main ECU 311 and each regional ECU 312 can be connected by a cable, and the main ECU 311 can send control data to each regional ECU 312 via an electrical communication path.

[0367] Similarly, as is obvious from the above Figure 3 it can be seen that the amount of control data sent from each entertainment ECU 313 to the main ECU 311 is reduced. Therefore, for example, the main ECU 311 and each entertainment ECU 313 can be connected by a cable, and each entertainment ECU 313 can send control data to the main ECU 311 via an electrical communication path.

[0368] Above, an example in which each ECU of the information processing system 301 is connected via the optical cable 321 has been described. However, in the circuit before the ECU, communication methods such as CAN, LIN, LAN, FlexRay, and Ethernet are selectively used based on the amount of data to be sent, the required transmission speed, the delay time, and the like.

[0369] In addition to the above examples, the ECUs can be appropriately integrated into one ECU.

[0370] For example, when an on-vehicle diagnosis (on-vehicle failure diagnosis device) is connected to the vehicle 1, it is desirable to be able to connect to the main ECU 311 or the gateway ECU 314 that collects information from each ECU.

[0371] For example, the present technology can be applied to a moving body other than a vehicle that performs sensing on each area using sensors provided for each area.

[0372] <<5. Others>>

[0373] <Configuration Example of Computer>

[0374] The above series of processes can be executed by hardware or by software. In the case where a series of processes are executed by software, the program constituting the software is installed in a computer. Here, examples of the computer include a computer incorporated in dedicated hardware, and for example, a general-purpose personal computer that can execute various functions by installing various programs.

[0375] Figure 23 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of the hardware of a computer that executes the above series of processes by a program.

[0376] In the computer 1000, a central processing unit (CPU) 1001, a read-only memory (ROM) 1002, and a random access memory (RAM) 1003 are interconnected via a bus 1004.

[0377] The input / output interface 1005 is further connected to the bus 1004. The input unit 1006, output unit 1007, storage unit 1008, communication unit 1009, and driver 1010 are connected to the input / output interface 1005.

[0378] The input unit 1006 includes input switches, buttons, microphones, imaging elements, etc. The output unit 1007 includes a display, a speaker, etc. The storage unit 1008 includes a hard disk, non-volatile memory, etc. The communication unit 1009 includes a network interface, etc. The driver 1010 drives a removable medium 1011 such as a magnetic disk, an optical disk, a magneto-optical disk, or a semiconductor memory.

[0379] In the computer 1000 configured as described above, for example, a program stored in the storage unit 1008 is loaded into the RAM 1003 via the input / output interface 1005 and the bus 1004 by the CPU 1001, and the program is executed to perform the above-described series of processes.

[0380] For example, the program can be provided by recording the program executed by the computer 1000 (CPU 1001) on a removable medium 1011 such as a packaged medium. In addition, the program can be provided via a wired or wireless transmission medium such as a local area network, the Internet, or digital satellite broadcasting.

[0381] In the computer 1000, by mounting the removable medium 1011 on the driver 1010, the program can be installed in the storage unit 1008 via the input / output interface 1005. In addition, the program can be received by the communication unit 1009 via a wired or wireless transmission medium and installed in the storage unit 1008. In addition, the program can be pre-installed in the ROM 1002 or the storage unit 1008.

[0382] Note that the program executed by the computer can be a program in which the processes are executed in time series in the order described in this specification, or can be a program in which the processes are executed in parallel or at a necessary timing such as when a call is made.

[0383] In addition, in this specification, a system is intended to represent an assembly of a plurality of components (devices, modules (components), etc.), and it does not matter whether all the components are in the same housing. Therefore, both a plurality of devices housed in separate enclosures and connected to each other via a network and a single device in which a plurality of modules are housed in one enclosure are systems.

[0384] In addition, the embodiments of the present technology are not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the present technology.

[0385] For example, the present technology can be implemented in cloud computing, where functions are shared and executed by multiple devices via a network.

[0386] In addition, each step described in the above flowchart can be executed by one device, or can be shared and executed by multiple devices.

[0387] In addition, in the case where a step includes multiple processes, the multiple processes included in one step can be executed by one device, or executed by multiple devices in a shared manner.

[0388] <Example of combination of configurations>

[0389] The present technology can also be configured as follows.

[0390] (1) An information processing system, comprising:

[0391] A plurality of integrated electronic control units (ECUs), configured in a moving body and controlling a plurality of functions, wherein

[0392] Each of the integrated ECUs is connected via an optical communication path, and at least some of the integrated ECUs are connected to optical communication paths of two or more systems.

[0393] (2) The information processing system according to (1), wherein

[0394] The integrated ECU includes:

[0395] A plurality of regional ECUs, each of the plurality of regional ECUs being configured for each of the predetermined regions of the moving body and collectively controlling the sensors arranged in each region; and

[0396] A main ECU, receiving sensor data of the sensors from each of the regional ECUs via an optical communication path, and performing processing based on the received sensor data.

[0397] (3) The information processing system according to (2), wherein

[0398] The main ECU and at least some of the regional ECUs are connected to an optical communication loop as a ring-shaped optical communication path, and are capable of transmitting and receiving data in two rotational directions of the optical communication loop, and

[0399] Both ends of the optical communication loop are connected to the main ECU.

[0400] (4) The information processing system according to (3), wherein

[0401] The regional ECUs connected to the optical communication loop transmit data in two rotational directions of the optical communication loop, and forward the data received from one direction of the optical communication loop to the other direction.

[0402] (5) The information processing system according to (3) or (4), wherein

[0403] The optical communication loop is closed in the engine room of the moving body.

[0404] (6) The information processing system according to any one of (3) to (5), wherein

[0405] At least one of the area ECUs connected to the optical communication loop is provided on the top of the moving body.

[0406] (7) The information processing system according to any one of (2) to (6), wherein

[0407] The main ECU is also connected to the area ECU via an electrical communication path and sends control data to the area ECU via the electrical communication path.

[0408] (8) The information processing system according to (2), wherein

[0409] The area ECU substantially provided on the first diagonal of the moving body is connected to the main ECU via a first optical communication path, and the area ECU substantially provided on the second diagonal of the moving body is connected to the main ECU via a second optical communication path.

[0410] (9) The information processing system according to any one of (2) to (8), wherein

[0411] Each area ECU sends sensor data to the main ECU at a different wavelength.

[0412] (10) The information processing system according to (9), wherein

[0413] The main ECU controls the transmission of sensor data of each area ECU based on the state of the moving body.

[0414] (11) The information processing system according to (10), wherein

[0415] The main ECU sends entertainment content data in the moving body via the optical communication path at the wavelength of the sensor data that has stopped being transmitted.

[0416] (12) The information processing system according to (11), further comprising:

[0417] An entertainment ECU, connected to the main ECU via an optical communication path and controlling entertainment-related processing based on the content data.

[0418] (13) The information processing system according to (12), wherein

[0419] The entertainment ECU is also connected to the main ECU via an electrical communication path and sends control data to the main ECU via the electrical communication path.

[0420] (14) The information processing system according to (1), wherein

[0421] Two or more integrated ECUs are connected to an optical communication loop that is an optical communication path on a loop, and are capable of sending and receiving data in two rotational directions of the optical communication loop.

[0422] (15) The information processing system according to (14), wherein

[0423] Some of the integrated ECUs are connected to the optical communication loop via an optical cable and a beam splitter, send data only in a predetermined rotational direction of the optical communication loop, and receive only data sent in a direction opposite to the predetermined rotational direction in the optical communication loop.

[0424] (16) The information processing system according to any one of (1) to (15) further includes:

[0425] A gateway ECU, which is connected to the integrated ECU via the electrical communication paths of two or more systems and performs arbitration processing between the communication networks of the multiple systems.

[0426] (17) The information processing system according to (16), wherein

[0427] The gateway ECU connects the first communication network to which each integrated ECU is connected via the optical communication path to the second communication network in the moving body.

[0428] (18) The information processing system according to (1), wherein

[0429] The integrated ECU connected to the optical communication paths of two or more systems includes a beam splitter and a photoelectric conversion element for each system.

[0430] (19) A communication method includes:

[0431] Connecting multiple integrated ECUs that control multiple functions to each other via an optical communication path in a moving body; and

[0432] Connecting at least some of the integrated ECUs to the optical communication paths of two or more systems and sending and receiving data via the optical communication paths of the two or more systems.

[0433] (20) A moving body includes:

[0434] Multiple integrated ECUs that control multiple functions, wherein

[0435] Each of the integrated ECUs is connected via an optical communication path, and at least some of the integrated ECUs are connected to optical communication paths of two or more systems.

[0436] Note that the effects described in this specification are merely examples and not limitations, and other effects may be achieved.

[0437] List of reference numerals

[0438] 1 Vehicle

[0439] 11 Vehicle control system

[0440] 51 Camera

[0441] 52 Radar

[0442] 53 LiDAR

[0443] 54 Ultrasonic sensor

[0444] 301, 301a to 301f Information processing system

[0445] 311 Main ECU

[0446] 312, 312a, 312b Zone ECU

[0447] 312F Front zone ECU

[0448] 312FL Left front zone ECU

[0449] 312FR Right front zone ECU

[0450] 312L Left zone ECU

[0451] 312R Right zone ECU

[0452] 312BL Left rear zone ECU

[0453] 312BR Right rear zone ECU

[0454] 312B Rear zone ECU

[0455] 313 Entertainment ECU

[0456] 313F Front entertainment ECU

[0457] 313B Rear entertainment ECU

[0458] 314 Gateway ECU

[0459] 321 Optical cable

[0460] 322 Cable

[0461] 371-1 to 371-3 Beam splitters

[0462] 401 SoC

[0463] 402A and 402B optoelectronic conversion elements

[0464] 431 SoC

[0465] 432A and 432B optoelectronic conversion elements

[0466] 433A and 433B beam splitters

[0467] 451 SoC

[0468] 452 optoelectronic conversion element

[0469] 471 SoC

[0470] 472 optoelectronic conversion element

Claims

1. An information processing system, comprising: a plurality of integrated electronic control units (ECUs) configured in a moving body and controlling a plurality of functions, wherein each of the integrated ECUs is connected via an optical communication path, and at least some of the integrated ECUs are connected to the optical communication paths of two or more systems.

2. The information processing system according to claim 1, wherein the integrated ECU comprises: a plurality of regional ECUs, each of the plurality of regional ECUs being configured for each of the predetermined regions of the moving body and collectively controlling the sensors arranged in each region; and a main ECU that receives sensor data of the sensors from each of the regional ECUs via an optical communication path and performs processing based on the received sensor data.

3. The information processing system according to claim 2, wherein the main ECU and at least some of the regional ECUs are connected to an optical communication loop serving as a ring-shaped optical communication path and are capable of transmitting and receiving data in two rotational directions of the optical communication loop, and both ends of the optical communication loop are connected to the main ECU.

4. The information processing system according to claim 3, wherein the regional ECUs connected to the optical communication loop transmit data in two rotational directions of the optical communication loop and forward the data received from one direction of the optical communication loop to the other direction.

5. The information processing system according to claim 3, wherein the optical communication loop is closed in the engine room of the moving body.

6. The information processing system according to claim 3, wherein at least one of the regional ECUs connected to the optical communication loop is provided on the top of the moving body.

7. The information processing system according to claim 2, wherein the main ECU is also connected to the regional ECUs via an electrical communication path and transmits control data to the regional ECUs via the electrical communication path.

8. The information processing system according to claim 2, wherein the regional ECUs substantially arranged on the first diagonal line of the moving body are connected to the main ECU via a first optical communication path, and the regional ECUs substantially arranged on the second diagonal line of the moving body are connected to the main ECU via a second optical communication path.

9. The information processing system according to claim 2, wherein each regional ECU transmits sensor data to the main ECU at a different wavelength.

10. The information processing system according to claim 9, wherein the main ECU controls the transmission of sensor data of each regional ECU based on the state of the moving body.

11. The information processing system according to claim 10, wherein the main ECU transmits entertainment content data in the moving body via the optical communication path at the wavelength of the sensor data that has stopped being transmitted.

12. The information processing system according to claim 11, further comprising: an entertainment ECU connected to the main ECU via an optical communication path and controlling entertainment-related processing based on the content data.

13. The information processing system according to claim 12, wherein the entertainment ECU is also connected to the main ECU via an electrical communication path and transmits control data to the main ECU via the electrical communication path.

14. The information processing system according to claim 1, wherein two or more integrated ECUs are connected to an optical communication loop serving as an optical communication path on a loop, and are capable of transmitting and receiving data in two rotational directions of the optical communication loop.

15. The information processing system according to claim 14, wherein some of the integrated ECUs are connected to the optical communication loop via an optical cable and a beam splitter, transmit data only in a predetermined rotational direction of the optical communication loop, and receive data transmitted in a direction opposite to the predetermined rotational direction in the optical communication loop.

16. The information processing system according to claim 1, further comprising:[[]] a gateway ECU, connected to the integrated ECU via an electrical communication path of two or more systems, and performing arbitration processing between communication networks of multiple systems.

17. The information processing system according to claim 16, wherein the gateway ECU connects a first communication network to which each integrated ECU is connected via an optical communication path to a second communication network in a mobile body.

18. The information processing system according to claim 1, wherein the integrated ECU connected to the optical communication paths of two or more systems includes a beam splitter and a photoelectric conversion element for each system.

19. A communication method,[[]] comprising:[[]] connecting multiple integrated ECUs that control multiple functions to each other via an optical communication path in a mobile body; and connecting at least some of the integrated ECUs to the optical communication paths of two or more systems, and transmitting and receiving data via the optical communication paths of two or more systems.

20. A mobile body,[[]] comprising:[[]] multiple integrated ECUs that control multiple functions, wherein each of the integrated ECUs is connected via an optical communication path, and at least some of the integrated ECUs are connected to the optical communication paths of two or more systems.

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