Display control device, display control method, and program product

Abstract

The invention provides a display control apparatus, a display control method, and a program product. The display control device includes a display control unit configured to display, on a display unit provided in a vehicle, a host vehicle image simulating the vehicle and a preceding vehicle image simulating a preceding vehicle and disposed according to a relative positional relationship between the vehicle and the preceding vehicle. A first side on the display unit, which is on the image side of the host vehicle with respect to a set vehicle distance position on the display unit corresponding to a vehicle distance setting of a preceding vehicle following function, is displayed so as to be different from a second side on the display unit, and the first side is on the image side of the host vehicle with respect to a set vehicle distance position on the display unit corresponding to the vehicle distance setting of the preceding vehicle following function. The second side is the side opposite to the first side relative to the set vehicle distance position.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The technology disclosed herein relates to a display control device, a display control method, a non-transitory storage medium storing a display control program, and a program product. Background Art

[0002] Japanese Patent Gazette No. 7043965 discloses that a reasonable vehicle distance for adaptive cruise control refers to a range in which a predetermined distance is added to the front and rear of the set vehicle distance in consideration of control stability, and that an indicator showing the reasonable vehicle distance is displayed only when the leading vehicle is within the reasonable vehicle distance range and is not displayed when the leading vehicle leaves the range.

[0003] In Japanese Patent No. 7043965, only an indicator showing an appropriate vehicle distance is displayed in the direction of the preceding vehicle in front of the host vehicle, making it difficult for the user to intuitively understand the set vehicle distance. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The present disclosure provides a display control device, a display control method, a non-transitory storage medium storing a display control program, and a program product, which enable an occupant (user) to intuitively understand a set vehicle distance based on visual information in a preceding vehicle following function.

[0005] A first aspect of the present disclosure is a display control device comprising a display control unit that displays, on a display unit provided on the host vehicle, a host vehicle image simulating the host vehicle and a preceding vehicle image simulating a preceding vehicle and arranged according to a relative positional relationship between the host vehicle and the preceding vehicle, and displays a set distance position on the display unit corresponding to a distance setting for a preceding vehicle following function in a manner different from that ...

[0006] According to the first embodiment, by displaying the side of the own vehicle image relative to the set vehicle distance position differently from the side opposite to the own vehicle image relative to the set vehicle distance position, the occupant can intuitively understand the set vehicle distance (hereinafter also referred to as the set vehicle distance) based on visual information in the leading vehicle following function.

[0007] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, in the first aspect, the display control unit displays an icon at the set vehicle distance position on the display unit.

[0008] According to the second aspect, the occupant can understand the set vehicle distance based on the display position of the icon.

[0009] A third aspect of the present disclosure is any one of the above aspects, wherein the display control unit displays a road surface image on the display unit, the road surface image simulating the road surface on which the vehicle is traveling, and is configured such that the side of the own vehicle image relative to the set vehicle distance position is different from the opposite side.

[0010] According to the third aspect, the occupant can understand the set vehicle distance based on the change in the aspect of the road surface image.

[0011] According to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, in the third aspect, the display control unit displays the road surface image in a color different from that when the preceding vehicle following function is in operation, compared to when the preceding vehicle following function is not in operation.

[0012] According to the fourth aspect, the occupant can visually understand whether the preceding vehicle following function of the host vehicle is in operation.

[0013] A fifth aspect of the present disclosure is any one of the above aspects, wherein the display control unit displays the road surface image on the side of the own vehicle image relative to the set vehicle distance position in a brighter color than the road surface image on the opposite side during operation of the preceding vehicle following function.

[0014] According to the fifth aspect, the occupant can understand the set vehicle distance based on the difference in brightness and darkness of the road surface image.

[0015] The sixth mode of the present disclosure is any one of the above modes, wherein the display control unit, during the operation of the leading vehicle following function, displays the color of the road surface image on the side of the own vehicle image relative to the set vehicle distance position and the color of the road surface image on the opposite side in the same color system.

[0016] According to the sixth aspect, since the colors of the road surface image at the near side and the far side relative to the set vehicle distance position are the same, the occupant is less likely to feel visual discomfort.

[0017] The seventh mode of the present disclosure is that in the above mode, the display control unit displays the color displayed during the detection of the accelerator priority function and the color displayed during the hands-off control in colors different from the colors of the same color system during the operation of the preceding vehicle following function.

[0018] According to the seventh embodiment, during detection of the accelerator override function and during hands-off control, the road surface image is displayed in a color scheme different from the road surface image normally displayed during operation of the preceding vehicle following function. Therefore, the occupant can understand that the accelerator override function is effective or that hands-off control is in progress based on the color difference of the road surface image.

[0019] The eighth embodiment of the present disclosure is a display control method, which is executed by a computer and includes: displaying a vehicle image simulating the vehicle and a preceding vehicle image simulating a preceding vehicle and configured according to the relative positional relationship between the vehicle and the preceding vehicle on a display unit provided on the vehicle, and displaying a set distance position on the display unit corresponding to the distance setting of the preceding vehicle following function on the side of the vehicle image in a different manner from that on the side opposite to the vehicle image with respect to the set distance position.

[0020] According to the eighth embodiment, by displaying the side of the own vehicle image relative to the set vehicle distance position differently from the side opposite to the own vehicle image relative to the set vehicle distance position, the occupant can intuitively understand the set vehicle distance based on visual information in the leading vehicle following function.

[0021] The ninth mode of the present disclosure is a non-temporary storage medium storing a program that causes a computer to execute a display control process, the display control process including: displaying, on a display unit provided on the vehicle, an image of the vehicle simulating the vehicle and an image of a preceding vehicle simulating a preceding vehicle and configured according to the relative positional relationship between the vehicle and the preceding vehicle, and displaying a set distance position on the display unit corresponding to the distance setting of the preceding vehicle following function in a different manner on the side of the vehicle image than on the side opposite to the side of the vehicle image relative to the set distance position.

[0022] According to the ninth embodiment, by displaying the side of the own vehicle image relative to the set vehicle distance position differently from the side opposite to the own vehicle image relative to the set vehicle distance position, the occupant can intuitively understand the set vehicle distance based on visual information in the leading vehicle following function.

[0023] Another aspect of the present disclosure is a program product including a program causing a computer to execute a display control process, the display control process including: displaying, on a display unit provided on the vehicle, an image of the vehicle simulating the vehicle and an image of a preceding vehicle simulating a preceding vehicle and configured according to a relative positional relationship between the vehicle and the preceding vehicle, and displaying a first side on the display unit in a manner different from that of a second side on the display unit, the first side being a side of the vehicle image relative to a set distance position on the display unit corresponding to a distance setting of a preceding vehicle following function, and the second side being a side opposite to the side of the vehicle image relative to the set distance position.

[0024] According to the present disclosure, in the preceding vehicle following function, it is possible to enable an occupant to intuitively understand the set vehicle distance based on visual information. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0025] Figure 1 It is a schematic diagram schematically showing a state in which the front part of the vehicle cabin of the vehicle according to the embodiment is viewed from the rear side of the vehicle.

[0026] Figure 2 It is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the vehicle display control device according to the embodiment.

[0027] Figure 3 It is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of a vehicle display control device according to an embodiment.

[0028] Figures 4A to 4D The figure shows an example of a display screen of the second display unit during automatic driving, and shows the display position of the target bar that differs depending on the vehicle distance setting.

[0029] Figures 5A to 5C FIG1 is a diagram showing an example of a display screen of the second display unit during automatic driving, and illustrating the relationship between the relative positional relationship between the preceding vehicle image and the target bar and the acceleration and deceleration control of the vehicle.

[0030] Figure 6 A diagram showing an example of a display screen of the second display unit during manual driving.

[0031] Figure 7 FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a display screen of the second display unit during automatic driving, and is a diagram showing a state in which an accelerator operation intervention is being performed.

[0032] Figure 8 This figure shows an example of a display screen of the second display unit during automatic driving, and is a figure showing a state in which hands-free control is in operation.

[0033] Figure 9 This figure shows an example of a display screen of the second display unit during automatic driving, and is a figure showing a state in which a leading vehicle is approaching.

[0034] Figures 10A to 10C A diagram showing an example of a display screen of the second display unit during automatic driving according to a modified example.

[0035] Figure 11 This is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of display processing according to the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0036] A vehicle 12 (hereinafter also referred to as a host vehicle) to which a vehicle display control device 10 according to an embodiment is applied will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, as an example, vehicle 12 according to this embodiment is configured to be switchable between automatic and manual driving. The vehicle display control device 10 is an example of a "display control device." Vehicle 12 is an example of a "host vehicle."

[0037] like Figure 1 As shown, an instrument panel 14 is provided at the front portion of the interior of a vehicle 12. The instrument panel 14 extends in the vehicle width direction, and a steering wheel 16 is provided on the vehicle right side (as viewed by a seated occupant) of the instrument panel 14. Specifically, in this embodiment, as an example, a right-hand drive vehicle is provided with the steering wheel 16 on the right side, and the driver's seat is set on the right side of the vehicle.

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

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

[0040] Here, a first display unit 24 is provided on the windshield 18. The first display unit 24 is provided by Figure 2 Specifically, the head-up display device 23 is provided on the vehicle front side relative to the instrument panel 14 and is configured to project an image from the head-up display device 23 toward a first display unit 24 of the windshield 18 .

[0041] A second display unit 26 is provided on the lower side of the vehicle relative to the first display unit 24. The second display unit 26 displays information on the meter 25 located in front of the driver's seat in the instrument panel 14. The first and second display units 24, 26 are positioned so that they can be visually recognized by the driver. Furthermore, the vehicle display control device 10, the first and second display units 24, 26 constitute a vehicle display system. The first and second display units 24, 26 are examples of "display units."

[0042] (Hardware Configuration of Vehicle Display Control Device 10)

[0043] like Figure 2 As shown, the vehicle display control device 10 of the present embodiment is configured to include an ECU (Electronic Control Unit) 28 .

[0044] The ECU 28 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 30 , a ROM (Read Only Memory) 32 , a RAM (Random Access Memory) 34 , a storage 36 , and an input / output interface 38 . These components are connected to each other via an internal bus 39 so as to be communicable with each other.

[0045] The CPU 30 is a central processing unit that executes various programs and controls various components. Specifically, the CPU 30 reads programs from the ROM 32 or storage 36 and uses the RAM 34 as a work area to execute the programs. Furthermore, the CPU 30 controls the various components described above and performs various calculations based on the programs stored in the ROM 32 or storage 36.

[0046] ROM 32 stores various programs and data. RAM 34 temporarily stores programs and data as a work area. Storage 36 is a non-temporary storage medium composed of an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or SSD (Solid State Drive) that stores various programs, including the operating system, and various data. In this embodiment, display programs for implementing display processing are stored in ROM 32 or storage 36. In addition, various input and output devices are connected to input and output interface 38.

[0047] Here, the ECU 28 is electrically connected to the automatic driving ECU 40. The automatic driving ECU 40 is configured similarly to the ECU 28 to include a CPU, ROM, RAM, memory, and input / output interfaces (not shown).

[0048] The automatic driving ECU 40 is connected to a sensor group 42 that detects the current condition of the vehicle and an actuator group 44 that controls the driving of the vehicle. The sensor group 42 includes a plurality of sensors from various sensors such as cameras, radars, LIDAR (Light Detection and Ranging or Laser Imaging Detection and Ranging), and GPS (global positioning system) sensors. The camera captures the surroundings of the vehicle. The radar detects the distance and direction to objects around the vehicle using radio waves. The LIDAR detects the distance and direction to objects around the vehicle using lasers. The GPS sensor detects the current position of the vehicle. In addition, the sensor group 42 is configured to include sensors that detect the status of the occupants. For example, the sensor group 42 can also be configured to include a biological sensor that detects the heart rate and alertness of the occupants.

[0049] The actuator group 44 includes acceleration and deceleration actuators that adjust the vehicle's acceleration and deceleration, and a steering actuator that drives the vehicle's steering system. The autonomous driving ECU 40 controls the operation of the actuator group 44 based on the current vehicle conditions detected by the sensor group 42, thereby implementing autonomous driving of the vehicle. Furthermore, the autonomous driving ECU 40 stores a planned route representing the vehicle's planned travel path in its memory, and the autonomous driving ECU 40 causes the vehicle to travel along the planned route stored in the memory.

[0050] The ECU 28 is connected to an accelerator position sensor 46 and a steering sensor 48. The accelerator position sensor 46 detects the position of an accelerator pedal (not shown), which is located below the driver's seat. Furthermore, the steering sensor 48 detects the load applied to the steering wheel 16 by the occupant. Specifically, the steering sensor 48 of this embodiment is configured so that it does not detect the load when the steering wheel 16 is operated by the automatic driving ECU 40 during automatic driving, but detects the load when the steering wheel 16 is operated by the occupant.

[0051] (Functional Structure of Vehicle Display Control Device 10)

[0052] The vehicle display control device 10 realizes various functions using the above-mentioned hardware resources. Figure 3 Next, the functional configuration implemented by the vehicle display control device 10 will be described.

[0053] like Figure 3As shown, the vehicle display control device 10 includes a driving mode acquisition unit 52, a display control unit 54, an operation intervention detection unit 56, and an approach detection unit 58 as functional components. Each functional component is implemented by the CPU 30 of the ECU 28 reading and executing a program.

[0054] The driving mode acquisition unit 52 acquires whether the driving mode of the vehicle 12 is a manual driving mode or an automatic driving mode. Here, the manual driving mode in this embodiment refers to a driving mode in which the vehicle 12 is driven by the driving operation of the occupant. In addition, the automatic driving mode in this embodiment refers to a driving mode in which the vehicle 12 is driven without the accelerator operation performed by the occupant. As an example, the automatic driving mode in this embodiment refers to the adaptive cruise control (ACC) operation. ACC is a driving assistance function that identifies the leading vehicle through the camera and radar (monocular camera and millimeter wave radar) included in the sensor group 42, and assists in following while maintaining a distance corresponding to the vehicle speed. The driving mode acquisition unit 52 acquires information related to the driving mode based on a signal from the automatic driving ECU 40, for example. Adaptive cruise control is an example of a "leading vehicle following function."

[0055] Furthermore, when the vehicle 12's driving mode is the automatic driving mode, the driving mode acquisition unit 52 determines whether hands-off control is in effect. Hands-off control is a highly advanced driving assistance function that implements steering and acceleration / deceleration control under the driver's supervision, for example, in a dedicated lane. The driving mode acquisition unit 52 acquires information related to hands-off control based on, for example, a signal from the automatic driving ECU 40.

[0056] The display control unit 54 displays information about the surroundings of the vehicle 12 on the first display unit 24 and the second display unit 26, which are provided within the vehicle cabin. Specifically, the display control unit 54 obtains signals from the sensor group 42 and displays information about the surroundings of the vehicle 12 based on the obtained signals on the first display unit 24 and the second display unit 26. The information about the surroundings of the vehicle 12 also includes information about the relative positional relationship between the vehicle 12 and the preceding vehicle.

[0057] Furthermore, when the driving mode acquired by the driving mode acquisition unit 52 is at least the automatic driving mode, the display control unit 54 displays the set vehicle distance (hereinafter also referred to as the set vehicle distance) on the first display unit 24 and the second display unit 26. Specifically, the display control unit 54 acquires the set vehicle distance for the automatic driving mode and displays information indicating the acquired set vehicle distance on the first display unit 24 and the second display unit 26.

[0058] The display control unit 54 changes the display screens displayed on the first display unit 24 and the second display unit 26 depending on whether the driving mode acquired by the driving mode acquisition unit 52 is the manual driving mode or the automatic driving mode. Furthermore, the display control unit 54 changes the display screens displayed on the first display unit 24 and the second display unit 26 when the operation intervention detection unit 56 detects that the occupant has intervened in the driving operation, or when the driving mode acquisition unit 52 indicates that hands-free control is in effect. Furthermore, the display control unit 54 changes the display screens displayed on the first display unit 24 and the second display unit 26 when the approach detection unit 58 (described later) detects the approach of a preceding vehicle.

[0059] The operation intervention detection unit 56 detects the intervention of the driving operation by the passenger when the driving mode acquired by the driving mode acquisition unit 52 is the automatic driving mode. That is, the operation intervention detection unit 56 functions only when the driving mode is the automatic driving mode and does not function when the driving mode is the manual driving mode. In addition, when the operation intervention detection unit 56 detects that the accelerator pedal has moved from its initial position based on the signal from the accelerator position sensor 46 in the automatic driving mode, it determines that the passenger has intervened in the accelerator operation. Furthermore, when the operation intervention detection unit 56 detects that the passenger has applied a load to the steering wheel 16 based on the signal from the steering sensor 48 in the automatic driving mode, it determines that the passenger has intervened in the steering operation.

[0060] The approach detection unit 58 detects whether the preceding vehicle is approaching the host vehicle. The approach detection unit 58 acquires information on the approach of the preceding vehicle based on a signal from the automatic driving ECU 40, for example.

[0061] (Display screen)

[0062] Below, refer to Figures 4A to 10C A portion of the display screen of the second display unit 26 displayed by the function of the display control unit 54 during automatic driving will be described.

[0063] Figures 4A to 4D This figure shows the display position of the target horizontal bar M3 which is different according to the vehicle distance setting during automatic driving. Figures 4A to 4DAs shown, in the automatic driving mode, the second display unit 26 displays a vehicle image M1 simulating the vehicle 12, a preceding vehicle image M2 simulating the preceding vehicle traveling in front of the vehicle 12, a target bar M3 as an icon indicating the set vehicle distance in the automatic driving mode, a road surface image M4 simulating the road surface of the lane in which the vehicle 12 is traveling, a boundary line image M5 simulating the boundary line of the lane in which the vehicle 12 is traveling, and an image effect M6 indicating the effect on the image. The road surface image M4 of this embodiment includes road surface images M4G, M4DG, and M4Gy (see FIG. 1 ) having different displayed colors (information on hue, brightness, and saturation). Figure 6 ), M4S, M4DS (refer to Figure 7 ), M4LB, M4DB (refer to Figure 8 ), M4A (refer to Figure 9 ). In addition, the boundary line image M5 includes boundary line images M5G and M5Gy displayed in different colors (see Figure 6 ), M5LB (refer to Figure 8 ). In addition, the image effect M6 includes image effects M6W and M6B that display different colors (see Figure 8 ). The target horizontal bar M3 is an example of an “icon”.

[0064] Here, the host vehicle image M1 is displayed in the display area of ​​the second display unit 26. The host vehicle image M1 is displayed in a manner overlapping with the road surface image M4 at the lower portion of the display area.

[0065] The preceding vehicle image M2 is displayed superimposed on the road surface image M4. Furthermore, the preceding vehicle image M2 is displayed with its display position and size changed depending on the relative position of the vehicle 12 and the preceding vehicle. For example, as the relative position of the vehicle 12 and the preceding vehicle moves away, the preceding vehicle image M2 is displayed in a smaller size toward the upper portion of the display area within the second display unit 26.

[0066] The target horizontal bar M3 is displayed superimposed on the road surface image M4 in front of the vehicle image M1. Here, "in front of the vehicle image M1" refers to the direction of travel of the vehicle 1, which corresponds to the upper position on the second display unit 26. The target horizontal bar M3 is displayed while changing its position according to the set vehicle distance in the autonomous driving mode of the vehicle 12. Furthermore, the position where the target horizontal bar M3 is displayed may also change according to the speed of the vehicle 12. The position that changes according to the set vehicle distance in the autonomous driving mode of the vehicle 12 is an example of a "set vehicle distance position."

[0067] The road image M4 is displayed overlapping the host vehicle image M1, the preceding vehicle image M2, and the target horizontal bar M3. Furthermore, the road image M4 is displayed differently on the near side and far side of the target horizontal bar M3. Here, "near side" refers to the direction closer to the host vehicle image M1 and corresponds to the lower side on the second display unit 26. Furthermore, "far side" refers to the direction farther away from the host vehicle image M1 and corresponds to the upper side on the second display unit 26. For example, the road image M4G displayed on the near side of the target horizontal bar M3 is displayed in green, while the road image M4DG displayed on the far side of the target horizontal bar M3 is displayed in dark green. The near side of the target horizontal bar M3 is an example of the "first side" (the side closer to the host vehicle image relative to the set vehicle distance position), while the far side of the target horizontal bar M3 is an example of the "second side" (the side opposite the host vehicle image relative to the set vehicle distance position). Green and dark green are examples of "colors of the same color family."

[0068] The boundary line image M5 is displayed on the left and right sides of the road surface image M4, separated by gaps along the road surface image M4. Here, "left" and "right" are the left and right sides of the direction of travel of the vehicle 12, which are consistent with the left and right sides of the second display unit 26. The boundary line image M5 is displayed in different ways depending on the working state of the driving assistance function of the vehicle 12. For example, the boundary line image M5G displayed when the lane departure warning (LDA: Lane Departure Alert) is valid is displayed in green. On the other hand, the boundary line image M5Gy displayed when LDA is invalid is displayed in gray. LDA is a driving assistance function that, when the system determines that the vehicle may deviate from the lane, notifies the driver through display and buzzer, or vibration of the steering device, thereby prompting the driver to perform a deviation avoidance operation. Furthermore, LDA assists in suppressing lane departure by applying steering force to the steering device and displaying.

[0069] The image effect M6 is displayed around the road surface image M4 and the boundary line image M5. For example, the image effect M6W is displayed as white fog to improve the visibility of the road surface image M4 and the boundary line image M5.

[0070] In this embodiment, as an example, Figure 4A As shown, when the vehicle distance setting is set to the fourth level among the four levels, the target horizontal bar M3 is displayed at a position of about 1 / 10 from the far side of the road surface image M4. In addition, a road surface image M4G is displayed on the near side of the target horizontal bar M3, and a road surface image M4DG is displayed on the far side (hereinafter referred to as Figures 4B to 4D In addition, if Figure 4BAs shown in FIG. 1 , when the vehicle distance setting is set to the third level among the four levels, the target horizontal bar M3 is displayed at a position about 1 / 5 from the far side of the road surface image M4. Figure 4C As shown in FIG. 1 , when the vehicle distance setting is set to the second level among the four levels, the target horizontal bar M3 is displayed at a position about 1 / 3 from the far side of the road surface image M4. Figure 4D As shown in the figure, when the vehicle distance setting is set to the first of four levels, the target horizontal bar M3 is displayed at a position about halfway from the far side of the road surface image M4. In this way, the display position of the target horizontal bar M3 is changed and displayed, thereby indicating which level the vehicle distance setting is set to. In addition, by changing the color of the road surface image M4 at the near side and far side of the target horizontal bar M3 and displaying it, it is indicated that the near side of the target horizontal bar M3 is the control area for automatic driving. In addition, Figures 4A to 4D In the example, the information indicating the set vehicle distance includes a target horizontal bar M3 and a road surface image M4.

[0071] Figures 5A to 5C : is a diagram showing the relationship between the relative positional relationship between the preceding vehicle image M2 and the target horizontal bar M3 and the acceleration and deceleration control of the vehicle 12 during automatic driving. Figure 5A As shown, when the preceding vehicle image M2 is displayed on the far side of the target horizontal bar M3, the display vehicle 12 will accelerate until the position of the target horizontal bar M3 coincides with the position of the preceding vehicle image M2. Figure 5B As shown, in the case where the preceding vehicle image M2 is displayed on the near side of the target horizontal bar M3, the display vehicle 12 will decelerate until the preceding vehicle image M2 is located on the far side of the target horizontal bar M3. Figure 5C As shown, when the position of the target horizontal bar M3 coincides with the position of the preceding vehicle image M2, it indicates that the vehicle 12 will not accelerate or decelerate (will maintain a constant speed). In this way, the acceleration and deceleration control of the vehicle 12 is displayed by displaying the relative positional relationship between the preceding vehicle image M2 and the target horizontal bar M3.

[0072] Figure 6 The display screen of the second display unit 26 during manual driving. In this embodiment, as an example, when the driving mode acquisition unit 52 acquires that the driving mode of the vehicle 12 is switched from the automatic driving mode to the manual driving mode, the display control unit 54 changes from Figure 4A The status shown is as follows Figure 6 As shown, the colors of the road surface image M4 and the boundary line image M5 on the second display unit 26 are changed, and the preceding vehicle image M2 and the target bar M3 are hidden.

[0073] For example, in Figure 4A As shown in FIG, when the driving mode is the automatic driving mode, a road surface image M4G and a boundary line image M5G are displayed. Figure 6 As shown, when the driving mode is manual, the display control unit 54 changes the colors of the road surface image M4 and the boundary line image M5 to display the road surface image M4Gy and the boundary line image M5Gy. Specifically, the road surface image M4Gy and the boundary line image M5Gy are displayed in gray. At this time, the vehicle image M1 and the image effect M6 remain unchanged.

[0074] If the Figure 6 As shown, the road surface image M4G changes to the road surface image M4Gy and the boundary line image M5G changes to the boundary line image M5Gy and is displayed. In addition, the preceding vehicle image M2 and the target horizontal bar M3 are set to be hidden. In this way, by setting the preceding vehicle image M2 and the target horizontal bar M3 to be hidden and changing the color of the road surface image M4 and the boundary line image M5, it is shown that the driving mode has been switched to the manual driving mode. In addition, when the driving mode is switched to the automatic driving mode again, it can be set to Figures 4A to 4D Any of the display screens shown in .

[0075] Figure 7 The second display unit 26 is displayed when the accelerator operation is intervened during automatic driving. In this embodiment, as an example, when the operation intervention detection unit 56 detects the intervention of the accelerator operation, the display control unit 54 changes from Figure 4A The status shown is as follows Figure 7 As shown, the color of the road surface image M4 on the second display unit 26 is changed. Detection of intervention of the accelerator operation is an example of "detection of an accelerator override function."

[0076] For example, Figure 4A As shown in FIG, in a normal state where no intervention of the accelerator operation is detected, the road surface images M4G and M4DG are displayed. Figure 7 As shown, upon detecting accelerator intervention, the display control unit 54 changes the color of the road surface image M4 to display road surface images M4S and M4DS. Specifically, the road surface image M4S displayed near the target horizontal bar M3 is displayed in silver, while the road surface image M4DG displayed far from the target horizontal bar M3 is displayed in dark silver. At this time, the host vehicle image M1, the preceding vehicle image M2, the boundary line image M5, and the image effect M6 remain unchanged. Silver and dark silver are examples of "colors of different color systems."

[0077] If the Figure 7 As shown, the display control unit 54 changes the road surface image M4G to the road surface image M4S and the road surface image M4DG to the road surface image M4DS for display. In this way, the color of the road surface image M4 is changed and displayed, thereby indicating that the intervention of the accelerator operation is effective. Figure 7 In the example, the information indicating the set vehicle distance includes a target horizontal bar M3 and a road surface image M4.

[0078] Figure 8 The second display unit 26 displays the screen when the hands-free control is in operation during automatic driving. In this embodiment, as an example, when the driving mode acquisition unit 52 acquires that the hands-free control is in operation, the display control unit 54 changes from Figure 4A The status shown is as follows Figure 8 As shown, the colors of the road surface image M4 , the boundary line image M5 , and the image effect M6 on the second display unit 26 are changed.

[0079] For example, Figure 4A As shown, in the state of the automatic driving mode where the hands-free control is not in operation, the road surface images M4G, M4DG, the boundary line image M5G and the image effect M6W are displayed. Figure 8 As shown, when hands-free control is in effect, the display control unit 54 changes the colors of the road surface image M4, boundary line image M5, and image effect M6, displaying road surface images M4LB, M4DB, boundary line image M5LB, and image effect M6B. Specifically, the road surface image M4LB and boundary line image M5LB displayed near the target horizontal bar M3 are displayed in light blue, while the road surface image M4DB displayed far from the target horizontal bar M3 is displayed in dark blue. Furthermore, image effect M6B is displayed in blue. At this time, the vehicle image M1 and the preceding vehicle image M2 remain unchanged. Furthermore, a track image M7 and a speed indicator M8, described later, are displayed. Blue and dark blue are examples of "colors of different color systems."

[0080] If the Figure 8 As shown, a trajectory image M7 representing the planned travel route of vehicle 12 and a speed indicator M8 corresponding to the speed of vehicle 12 are displayed between the vehicle image M1 and the preceding vehicle image M2. In this embodiment, trajectory image M7 includes trajectory images M7B and M7NB of different colors. Furthermore, speed indicator M8 includes speed indicators M8S and M8DS of different colors.

[0081] The track image M7 is displayed in a roughly strip-like shape. When the vehicle 12 is traveling straight, it is displayed as a roughly straight line in the vertical direction. Furthermore, the track image M7 is displayed differently on the near side and far side of the target horizontal bar M3. For example, the track image M7B displayed on the near side of the target horizontal bar M3 is displayed in blue, while the track image M7NB displayed on the far side of the target horizontal bar M3 is displayed in navy blue. Furthermore, although not illustrated, when the vehicle 12 turns left or right, or when turning along a curve, the track image M7 is displayed as a curve along the vehicle 12's intended travel route.

[0082] The speed indicators M8 are displayed in plurality at intervals in a state of overlapping with the track image M7. Figure 8 Five speed markers M8 are displayed in the image. In addition, the speed markers M8 are displayed in different ways on the near side and far side of the target horizontal bar M3. For example, the speed marker M8S displayed on the near side of the target horizontal bar M3 is displayed in silver, and the speed marker M8DS displayed on the far side of the target horizontal bar M3 is displayed in dark silver. The speed markers M8 are displayed in a manner that the intervals vary according to the speed of the vehicle 12. For example, when the speed of the vehicle 12 is shorter than Figure 8 In the case of a low speed state, the speed mark M8 is displayed in a manner that the interval is narrowed. In addition, on the contrary, when the speed of the vehicle 12 is Figure 8 When the speed is fast, the intervals between the speed indicators M8 are widened for display.

[0083] In this way, the colors of the road surface image M4, the boundary line image M5, and the image effect M6 are changed, and the track image M7 and the speed mark M8 are displayed, thereby indicating that the hands-off control is effective. Figure 8 In the example, the information indicating the set vehicle distance includes a target horizontal bar M3, a road surface image M4, a track image M7, and a speed indicator M8.

[0084] Figure 9 The display screen of the second display unit 26 is shown in the state where the preceding vehicle is approaching during automatic driving. In this embodiment, as an example, when the approach detection unit 58 detects the approach of the preceding vehicle, the display control unit 54 changes from Figure 4A The status shown is as follows Figure 9 As shown, the color of the road surface image M4 on the second display unit 26 is changed, and the target bar M3 is hidden.

[0085] For example, Figure 4A As shown in FIG, in a normal state where the approach of a preceding vehicle is not detected, the road surface images M4G, M4DG and the target horizontal bar M3 are displayed. Figure 9As shown, upon detecting the approach of a preceding vehicle, the display control unit 54 changes the color of the road surface image M4 to display a road surface image M4A, while also hiding the target bar M3. Specifically, the road surface image M4A, which is displayed as a whole, is displayed in amber. At this time, the vehicle image M1, the preceding vehicle image M2, the boundary line image M5, and the image effect M6 remain unchanged. Furthermore, a warning image M9, described below, is displayed below the detected approaching preceding vehicle image M2.

[0086] If the Figure 9 As shown, a warning image M9 indicating the approach of the preceding vehicle is displayed at the bottom of the preceding vehicle image M2 indicating that the preceding vehicle is detected approaching the host vehicle. The warning image M9 is displayed in a state of overlapping with the road surface image M4A and overlapping with the preceding vehicle image M2. For example, the warning image M9 is displayed in orange. In this way, the target horizontal bar M3 is set to be non-displayed, the color of the road surface image M4 is changed, and the warning image M9 is displayed, thereby indicating that the preceding vehicle is approaching. In addition, at the time point when the appropriate distance between the host vehicle and the preceding vehicle detected approaching can be displayed, it can be set to Figures 4A to 4D Any of the display screens shown in .

[0087] The first display unit 24 displays the same image as that displayed on the second display unit 26. In this embodiment, since the display area of ​​the first display unit 24 is narrower than that of the second display unit 26, a portion of the image displayed on the second display unit 26 is displayed on the first display unit 24. For example, the target horizontal bar M3, the road surface image M4, and the boundary line image M5 are displayed on the first display unit 24.

[0088] (Variation)

[0089] exist Figures 10A to 10C 2 shows a modified example of the display screen of the second display unit 26 during automatic driving.

[0090] like Figure 10A As shown in FIG. 1 , the target horizontal bar M3 can be displayed by overlapping the road surface image M4 and the boundary line image M5 by the display control unit 54. Figure 4C In comparison, Figure 10A The target horizontal bar M3 is displayed longer in the left-right direction. In this way, the length of the target horizontal bar M3 in the left-right direction can also be changed and displayed.

[0091] In addition, if Figure 10BAs shown, the target horizontal bar M3 can be set to not be displayed. Meanwhile, the display control unit 54 displays the preceding vehicle image M2, road surface image M4, boundary line image M5, and image effect M6 in different ways near and far from the position indicating the set vehicle distance. For example, near the position indicating the set vehicle distance, the preceding vehicle image M2, road surface image M4G, boundary line image M5G, and image effect M6W are displayed. Conversely, far from the position indicating the set vehicle distance, the preceding vehicle image M2Gy, road surface image M4DG, boundary line image M5DG, and image effect M6Gy are displayed. Figure 10B In the modified example shown, the preceding vehicle image M2Gy and the image effect M6Gy are displayed in gray, and the boundary line image M5DG is displayed in dark green. Figure 10B In the example, the position where the vehicle distance is set is displayed by the position where the colors of the preceding vehicle image M2, the road surface image M4, the boundary line image M5, and the image effect M6 change significantly. In this way, the target horizontal bar M3 can also be set not to be displayed, and the preceding vehicle image M2, the boundary line image M5, and the image effect M6 can be displayed in different ways near and far sides of the position indicating the vehicle distance to be set. In addition, it is sufficient to change the color of at least one of the preceding vehicle image M2, the road surface image M4, the boundary line image M5, and the image effect M6. In addition, in Figure 10B In the image M2, the information indicating the set vehicle distance includes a preceding vehicle image M2, a road surface image M4, a boundary line image M5, and an image effect M6. The position indicating the set vehicle distance is an example of a "set vehicle distance position."

[0092] And, as Figure 10C As shown, the target horizontal bar M3 can be set to not be displayed. On the other hand, by the function of the display control unit 54, the road surface image M4 is displayed with different gradients on the near side and far side of the position indicating the set vehicle distance. For example, the road surface image M4GG displayed on the near side relative to the position indicating the set vehicle distance is displayed with a gradient of green that gradually becomes brighter as it moves from the center to the top and bottom. In addition, the road surface image M4DGG displayed on the far side relative to the position indicating the set vehicle distance is displayed with a gradient of dark green that gradually becomes brighter as it moves from the bottom to the top. That is, Figure 10C In the example, the set vehicle distance is displayed by the location where the brightness of the road surface image M4 changes significantly. In this way, the road surface image M4 can be displayed with different gradients near and far from the set vehicle distance. Alternatively, the boundary image M5 and image effect M6 can be displayed in a gradient manner.

[0093] (effect)

[0094] Next, the operation of this embodiment will be described.

[0095] (An example of display processing)

[0096] Figure 11 This is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of display processing performed by the vehicle display control device 10. The display processing is performed by the CPU 30 of the ECU 28 reading the program from the ROM 32 or the storage 36, expanding it in the RAM 34, and executing it. In addition, the display processing is performed by the CPU 30 functioning as the driving mode acquisition unit 52, the display control unit 54, the operation intervention detection unit 56, and the proximity detection unit 58. As an example, Figure 11 The display process shown is a process that is repeatedly executed while the vehicle 12 is traveling.

[0097] like Figure 11 As shown, the CPU 30 obtains the driving mode in step S100. Specifically, the CPU 30 obtains whether the driving mode of the vehicle 12 is the manual driving mode or the automatic driving mode.

[0098] In step S101, the CPU 30 determines whether the driving mode of the vehicle 12 is the automatic driving mode. If the driving mode of the vehicle 12 acquired by the driving mode acquisition unit 52 is the automatic driving mode, the CPU 30 affirms the determination in step S101 and proceeds to step S102. On the other hand, if the driving mode of the vehicle 12 acquired by the driving mode acquisition unit 52 is the manual driving mode, the CPU 30 proceeds to step S109.

[0099] In step S102, the CPU 30 displays the surrounding information when in the automatic driving mode. Specifically, the CPU 30 obtains the signal from the sensor group 42 and displays the surrounding information of the vehicle 12 based on the obtained signal on the first display unit 24 and the second display unit 26. For example, in step S102, the CPU 30 displays the surrounding information of the vehicle 12 based on the obtained signal. Figure 4A As shown, the vehicle image M1, the preceding vehicle image M2, the target horizontal bar M3, the road surface image M4, the boundary line image M5, and the image effect M6 are displayed on the second display unit 26. In addition, the CPU 30 also displays the same image on the first display unit 24 as on the second display unit 26.

[0100] CPU30 Figure 11 In step S103 , it is determined whether the accelerator operation has been intervened. Specifically, if the CPU 30 detects intervention of the accelerator operation based on the signal from the accelerator position sensor 46 , the CPU 30 makes an affirmative determination in step S103 and proceeds to the processing of step S104 .

[0101] On the other hand, when the CPU 30 does not detect the intervention of the accelerator operation in step S103 , it makes a negative determination in step S103 and moves to the processing of step S105 .

[0102] In step S104, the CPU 30 performs a display when the accelerator operation intervenes. Specifically, the CPU 30 performs the display as follows: Figure 7 As shown, the color of the road surface image M4 on the second display unit 26 is changed. Although not shown, the display on the first display unit 24 is also changed in the same manner.

[0103] CPU30 Figure 11 In step S105, it is determined whether the hands-off control is in operation. Specifically, if the CPU 30 obtains that the hands-off control is in operation, the CPU 30 makes an affirmative determination in step S105 and proceeds to the processing of step S106.

[0104] On the other hand, if the CPU 30 does not determine in step S105 that the hands-off control is in operation, the CPU 30 makes a negative determination in step S105 and proceeds to the processing of step S107 .

[0105] The CPU 30 performs a display when the hands-free control is performed in step S106. Specifically, the CPU 30 performs a display when the hands-free control is performed. Figure 8 The colors of the road surface image M4, boundary line image M5, and image effect M6 on the second display unit 26 are changed as shown. Furthermore, the CPU 30 displays a track image M7 and a speed indicator M8 indicating the planned travel route. Although not shown, the display on the first display unit 24 is similarly changed.

[0106] CPU30 Figure 11 In step S107, it is determined whether the preceding vehicle is approaching. Specifically, when the CPU 30 detects that the preceding vehicle is approaching, it makes an affirmative determination in step S105 and transfers the processing to step S108.

[0107] On the other hand, if the CPU 30 does not detect the approach of the preceding vehicle in step S107 , the CPU 30 makes a negative determination in step S107 and proceeds to step S100 .

[0108] In step S108, the CPU 30 displays when the preceding vehicle approaches. Figure 9 As shown, the target horizontal bar M3 on the second display unit 26 is hidden and the color of the road surface image M4 is changed. Furthermore, the CPU 30 displays a warning image M9 indicating the approach of a preceding vehicle. Although not shown, the display on the first display unit 24 is similarly changed. The CPU 30 then proceeds to step S100.

[0109] In step S109, the CPU 30 displays the surrounding information in the manual driving mode. Figure 6 As shown, the preceding vehicle image M2 and target bar M3 on the second display unit 26 are hidden, and the colors of the road surface image M4 and boundary line image M5 are changed. Although not shown, the display on the first display unit 24 is similarly changed. The CPU 30 then proceeds to step S100.

[0110] As described above, the vehicle display control device 10 according to this embodiment displays the vehicle image M1 and the preceding vehicle image M2 on the first display unit 24 and the second display unit 26. Furthermore, a target bar M3 is displayed, whose display position shifts vertically according to the vehicle distance setting in the autonomous driving mode. Furthermore, the near side of the target bar M3 is displayed differently from the far side of the target bar M3. This allows the occupant to intuitively understand the set vehicle distance through visual information during the adaptive cruise control function. Furthermore, the occupant can understand the set vehicle distance based on the display position of the target bar M3.

[0111] In the vehicle display control device 10 according to this embodiment, the road surface image M4G located closer to the target horizontal bar M3 is displayed differently from the road surface image M4DG located farther from the target horizontal bar M3. This allows the occupant to understand the set vehicle distance based on the change in the road surface image M4. Furthermore, compared to displaying the set vehicle distance information solely based on the display position of the target horizontal bar M3, this information can be displayed over a wider range, thereby increasing the amount of visual information the occupant needs to understand the set vehicle distance. Furthermore, the occupant can visually understand the control area during autonomous driving.

[0112] In the vehicle display control device 10 according to this embodiment, the road surface image M4 is displayed in a different color during automatic driving than during manual driving. This allows the occupant to visually understand whether the driving mode of the vehicle 12 is manual or automatic.

[0113] In the vehicle display control device 10 of this embodiment, during autonomous driving, the road image M4G near the target horizontal bar M3 is displayed in green, while the road image M4DG farther from the target horizontal bar M3 is displayed in dark green. This allows the occupant to understand the set vehicle distance based on the light and dark differences in the road image M4. Furthermore, because the road image M4 near and farther from the target horizontal bar M3 uses the same color scheme, the occupant is less likely to experience visual discomfort.

[0114] In the vehicle display control device 10 according to this embodiment, during automatic driving, road surface image M4S displayed when accelerator intervention is active is displayed in silver, while road surface image M4DS is displayed in dark silver. When hands-off control is in operation, road surface image M4B displayed in blue, while road surface image M4DB displayed in dark blue. Thus, in each case, road surface image M4 is displayed in a different color from road surface images M4G and M4DG. This allows the occupant to understand whether accelerator intervention is active or hands-off control is in operation based on the color difference in the road surface images.

[0115] The vehicle display control device 10 of this embodiment utilizes the ACC function during automated driving to follow a recognized preceding vehicle while maintaining a distance appropriate to the vehicle's speed. Consequently, the occupant can predict the acceleration and deceleration control of the vehicle 12 based on the relative positional relationship between the preceding vehicle image M2 and the target bar M3 displayed on the second display unit 26.

[0116] In the vehicle display control device 10 according to a modified example of this embodiment, the target horizontal bar M3 is displayed longer in the left-right direction by overlapping the road surface image M4 and the boundary line image M5. Therefore, compared to a case where the target horizontal bar M3 is displayed simply overlapping the road surface image M4, the amount of visual information that helps the occupant understand the set vehicle distance can be increased.

[0117] In the vehicle display control device 10 according to a modified example of this embodiment, the set vehicle distance is displayed by using the preceding vehicle image M2, the passing road image M4, the boundary line image M5, and the position where the color of the image effect M6 changes significantly. Therefore, compared to a case where the set vehicle distance is displayed solely by the target horizontal bar M3, the amount of visual information that helps the occupant understand the set vehicle distance can be increased.

[0118] In the vehicle display control device 10 according to the modified example of this embodiment, the set vehicle distance is displayed at a position where the gradation brightness of the road surface image M4 changes significantly. Therefore, the set vehicle distance is displayed with a stepwise color change, which reduces the visual discomfort experienced by the occupant.

[0119] In addition, in the above-mentioned embodiment, the control processing executed by the CPU 30 reading the software (program) can also be performed by various processors other than the CPU. As examples of processors in this case, there are FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) and other PLD (Programmable Logic Device) whose circuit structure can be changed after manufacturing, and ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) and other processors with a circuit structure specially designed to perform specific processing, that is, dedicated circuits. In addition, the control processing can be performed by one of these various processors, or by a combination of two or more processors of the same or different types (for example, multiple FPGAs, and a combination of a CPU and an FPGA, etc.). In addition, the hardware structure of these various processors is more specifically a circuit that combines circuit elements such as semiconductor elements.

[0120] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the program is described as being pre-stored (installed) in ROM 32 or storage 36, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The program may also be provided by recording it on a recording medium such as a CD-ROM (Compact Disk Read Only Memory), a DVD-ROM (Digital Versatile Disk Read Only Memory), or a USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory device. Furthermore, the program may be downloaded from an external device via a network.

Claims

1. A display control device comprising a display control unit, The display control unit is configured as follows: On a display unit provided in the vehicle, an image of the vehicle simulating the vehicle and an image of the preceding vehicle simulating the preceding vehicle and arranged according to the relative positional relationship between the vehicle and the preceding vehicle are displayed, and A first side on the display unit is displayed differently from a second side on the display unit, the first side being closer to the image of the own vehicle relative to a set vehicle distance position on the display unit corresponding to a vehicle distance setting of a preceding vehicle following function, and the second side being closer to an opposite side of the first side relative to the set vehicle distance position.

2. The display control device according to claim 1, wherein: The display control unit displays an icon at the set vehicle distance position on the display unit.

3. The display control device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The display control unit displays a road surface image on the display unit, the road surface image simulating the road surface on which the vehicle is traveling, and in a manner in which the first side and the second side relative to the set inter-vehicle distance position are different.

4. The display control device according to claim 3, wherein: The display control unit displays the road surface image in a color different from that when the preceding vehicle following function is in operation.

5. The display control device according to claim 3, wherein: The display control unit displays the road surface image on the first side relative to the set vehicle distance position in a brighter color than the road surface image on the second side during the operation of the preceding vehicle following function. The display control device according to claim 3 , wherein: The display control unit displays the road surface image on the first side and the road surface image on the second side of the set vehicle distance position in the same color when the preceding vehicle following function is in operation.

7. The display control device according to claim 6, wherein: The display control unit displays the road surface image in a color different from the same color system during detection of the accelerator priority function and during hands-off control during operation of the preceding vehicle following function.

8. A display control method, executed by a computer, comprising: A display unit provided on the vehicle displays a vehicle image simulating the vehicle and a preceding vehicle image simulating a preceding vehicle and arranged according to a relative positional relationship between the vehicle and the preceding vehicle. A first side on the display unit is displayed differently from a second side on the display unit, the first side being closer to the host vehicle image relative to a set vehicle distance position on the display unit corresponding to a vehicle distance setting of a preceding vehicle following function, and the second side being closer to an opposite side of the host vehicle image relative to the set vehicle distance position.

9. A program product comprising a program causing a computer to execute a display control process, the display control process comprising: A display unit provided on the vehicle displays a vehicle image simulating the vehicle and a preceding vehicle image simulating a preceding vehicle and arranged according to a relative positional relationship between the vehicle and the preceding vehicle. A first side on the display unit is displayed differently from a second side on the display unit, the first side being closer to the host vehicle image relative to a set vehicle distance position on the display unit corresponding to a vehicle distance setting of a preceding vehicle following function, and the second side being closer to an opposite side of the host vehicle image relative to the set vehicle distance position.

Images