Notification device

Abstract

The invention provides a notification device which appropriately performs notification for prompting the use of an auxiliary tool. A notification device (1) is provided with: an occupant detection unit (11a) capable of detecting an occupant (Mc) in a vehicle; a notification unit (23) for notifying the occupant (Mc); and a determination unit (11b) for determining whether or not the occupant (Mc) is using an assist tool (5). An occupant detection unit (11a) acquires identification information relating to an assist tool (5) from an occupant (Mc), a determination unit (11b) determines whether or not the occupant (Mc) is a use target of the assist tool (5) on the basis of the identification information, and a notification unit (23) performs notification processing for urging use of the assist tool (5) when it is determined that the occupant (Mc) is the use target of the assist tool (5).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a notification device. Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, there are known notification devices that use images captured from the vehicle interior to determine the presence of an occupant, the occupant's physique, and the wearing status of a child restraint system (CRS) for each seat in the vehicle, and based on the determination results, urge the occupant to wear the seat belt (see, for example, Patent Document 1). Furthermore, upon detecting a seat in which a child seat is installed, the notification device described in Patent Document 1 changes the operating conditions so that the pretensioner of the seat is deactivated.

[0003] Prior art literature

[0004] Patent Literature

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2016-222145 Summary of the Invention

[0006] Problems to be solved by the invention

[0007] However, in the case of small children, it is desirable to use assistive devices such as child seats, and in recent years, the obligation to use child seats has been expanded in various countries.

[0008] However, in the conventional technology, when a child is seated in a seat that is not equipped with a child seat, it is not possible to issue a notification urging the child to use a child seat.

[0009] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, the present application aims to appropriately notify the user of auxiliary tools and further improve traffic safety to contribute to the development of a sustainable transportation system.

[0010] Means for solving problems

[0011] A technical solution disclosed herein is a notification device comprising: an occupant detection unit capable of detecting an occupant in a vehicle; a notification unit for notifying the occupant; and a determination unit for determining whether the occupant is using an auxiliary tool, wherein the occupant detection unit obtains identification information related to the auxiliary tool from the occupant, and the determination unit determines whether the occupant is the user of the auxiliary tool based on the identification information. If it is determined that the occupant is the user of the auxiliary tool, the notification unit performs notification processing to urge the occupant to use the auxiliary tool.

[0012] Effects of the Invention

[0013] According to one aspect of the present invention, it is possible to appropriately provide notification urging the use of an assistive tool. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] Figure 1 A schematic configuration of a vehicle equipped with the notification device according to the first embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0015] Figure 2 This is a flowchart showing the basic operation of the notification device.

[0016] Figure 3 Is used to illustrate Figure 2 FIG. 10 is a diagram of step S3.

[0017] Figure 4 Is used to illustrate Figure 2 Diagram of a flowchart.

[0018] Figure 5 It is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a vehicle equipped with a notification device according to a second embodiment.

[0019] Figure 6 This is a flowchart showing the basic operation of the notification device according to the second embodiment.

[0020] Figure 7 Is used to illustrate Figure 6 FIG. 10 is a diagram of step S7a of FIG.

[0021] Figure 8 This is a diagram showing a modified example of a part of the basic operation of the notification device.

[0022] Figure 9 This is a diagram showing a modified example of a part of the basic operation of the notification device 1 .

[0023] Figure 10 Is used to illustrate Figure 9 Diagram of a flowchart.

[0024] Description of labels

[0025] 1: Notification device; 2F: Front seat (seat); 2R: Rear seat (seat); 5: Auxiliary tool (CRS); 7: Seat belt; 10: ECU; 11: Processor; 11a: Occupant detection unit; 11a1: Weight detection unit; 11a2: Occupant image detection unit; 11a3: Occupant height detection unit; 11b: Determination unit; 12: Memory; 12p: Program; 21: Photographic device; 22: Weight sensor; 23: Notification unit; 24: Radar sensor; 100: Vehicle; Mc: Occupant. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0026] Figure 1 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a vehicle 100 equipped with the notification device 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] The notification device 1 includes: a portion of the functions of the ECU 10 (Electronic Control Unit) included in the vehicle 100; a camera 21 for capturing images of the vehicle interior; a weight sensor 22 attached to a seat; and a notification unit 23 for notifying the occupants of the vehicle of information. The vehicle interior includes a front seat 2F constituting a front seat and a rear seat 2R constituting a rear seat.

[0028] The imaging device 21 is a camera that captures images of passengers within the vehicle. In this embodiment, the imaging device 21 is mounted on the interior ceiling and can capture images of passengers in the rear seats 2R (hereinafter referred to as passengers Mc). The location and number of the imaging devices 21 can be modified as appropriate.

[0029] The weight sensor 22 is a sensor capable of detecting the weight of the occupant Mc on the rear seat 2R. Figure 1 As shown, when the occupant Mc is a small child, there are two situations in which only the child is seated in the rear seat 2R and in which both the child and the auxiliary device 5, such as a child seat, are seated in the rear seat 2R. The weight sensor 22 detects only the weight of the child when only the child is seated in the rear seat 2R, and detects the combined weight of the auxiliary device 5 and the child when both the auxiliary device 5 and the child are seated in the rear seat 2R.

[0030] In this embodiment, the camera 21 and the weight sensor 22 are arranged assuming that a child (passenger Mc) who is the intended user of the assistive device 5 is seated in the rear seat 2R. However, the present invention is not limited to this configuration, and the positions and numbers of the camera 21 and the weight sensor 22 may be modified as appropriate.

[0031] For example, a photographic device 21 capable of photographing a child on the front seat 2F (e.g., the passenger seat) and a weight sensor 22 capable of detecting the weight of the child on the front seat 2F (e.g., the passenger seat) and the auxiliary tool 5 may also be configured.

[0032] The auxiliary device 5 for restraining a child (passenger Mc) in the vehicle 100 is called a CRS (Child Restraint System), a child safety seat, or a juvenile restraint system, and is appropriately referred to as a CRS 5 in the following description.

[0033] The notification unit 23 is a device for notifying passengers, and in this embodiment includes a display device capable of notifying at least passengers on the front seat 2F, such as the child protector on the rear seat 2R.

[0034] In addition, the notification unit 23 may also include a sound output device that can freely output sound, and use both display and sound to make notifications. The notification unit 23 can widely apply known devices that can notify the occupants, and the position and number of the notification unit 23 can also be appropriately changed.

[0035] The ECU 10 includes a processor 11, a memory 12, an input / output interface circuit, etc. The memory 12 stores a control program 12p used by the processor 11 and various data.

[0036] The processor 11 is a processing unit that controls and performs computational processing for each component of the notification unit 23. By reading and executing a program 12p, the processor 11 functions as an occupant detection unit 11a that detects an occupant Mc in the vehicle, and a determination unit 11b that determines whether the detected occupant Mc is a user (equivalent to a user) of the assistive device 5. The occupant detection unit 11a includes a weight detection unit 11a1 that detects the weight of the occupant Mc based on the detection results of the weight sensor 22, and an occupant image detection unit 11a2 that detects an image of the occupant Mc and the age of the occupant Mc based on image data from the imaging device 21.

[0037] The passenger image detection unit 11a2 utilizes known image recognition technology to have functions such as detecting the presence of the passenger Mc based on image data from the imaging device 21, detecting the passenger Mc's facial image, and estimating the passenger Mc's age from the facial image.

[0038] The occupant detection unit 11 a and the determination unit 11 b are not limited to being implemented by software processing, but may be configured by hardware or by a combination of hardware and software processing.

[0039] In this embodiment, when the occupant detection unit 11a and the determination unit 11b detect the presence of a child who meets the user requirements of the CRS 5 formed by the child seat, the notification unit 23 notifies the occupant to use the CRS 5. By notifying the occupant to use the CRS 5, as shown in FIG. Figure 1 As indicated by the middle symbol α, when the occupant Mc who meets the user target of the CRS 5 sits in the rear seat 2R, a protector in the vehicle (for example, the occupant of the front seat 2F) can be urged to use the CRS 5 .

[0040] Figure 2 This is a flowchart showing the basic operation of the notification device 1 (corresponding to the assisting tool notification process).

[0041] like Figure 2As shown, when the vehicle power is on (for example, the ignition switch is on) ("Yes" in step S1), the processor 11 obtains the weight Wt of the occupant Mc via the weight detection unit 11a1 (step S2). Next, the processor 11 determines via the determination unit 11b whether the weight Wt of the occupant Mc is less than a predetermined weight ma (step S3). If the weight Wt is less than the predetermined weight ma, the processor 11 determines that there is a possibility that a child who is not using the CRS 5 is present ("Yes" in step S3).

[0042] like Figure 3 As shown, the prescribed weight ma is set to a value within the following range, which is a range below the value of the total weight of "children who meet the requirements of the use of CRS 5 (=CRS subject) + CRS 5" (e.g., average value, median value, lower limit value, or values ​​around it) and above the value of the weight of "CRS subject" (e.g., upper limit value, average value, median value, or values ​​around it). In other words, the prescribed weight ma is set to a threshold value that can identify whether it is the weight of the CRS subject including CRS 5 or the weight of the CRS subject excluding CRS 5.

[0043] Thus, by comparing the detected weight Wt with the predetermined weight ma, it is possible to determine whether there is a CRS target person who does not use the CRS 5.

[0044] However, if the cargo placed on the rear seat 2R is equivalent to the weight of a CRS subject person who does not use the CRS 5, Figure 2 The determination in step S3 shown above is a positive result. Therefore, the existence of a CRS target person who does not use CRS 5 cannot be accurately determined by only this determination.

[0045] In this embodiment, if Figure 2 As shown, if the determination result of step S3 is positive ("Yes" in step S3), the processor 11 obtains the image Gd composed of the imaging data of the imaging device 21 through the occupant image detection unit 11a2 (step S4), and determines whether the occupant Mc is present based on the image Gd (step S5). Thus, the determination of steps S3 and S5 can accurately determine whether there is a CRS target person in the vehicle who is not using the CRS 5.

[0046] On the other hand, if the vehicle power is not on (No in step S1), or if the detected weight Wt is greater than the predetermined weight ma (No in step S3), or if it is determined based on the image Gd that there is no passenger Mc in the vehicle (No in step S5), the processor 11 ends the process. Figure 2 Accessibility notification processing shown.

[0047] in addition, Figure 2 The auxiliary tool notification process shown is repeatedly executed at a predetermined interruption cycle while the vehicle power is on, thereby continuously monitoring whether there is a CRS target person who is not using the CRS 5. In addition, the entry and exit of the passenger Mc can be detected by opening and closing the door of the vehicle 100, and the process is executed every time the opening and closing of the door is detected. Figure 2 Accessibility notification processing shown.

[0048] When there is a CRS subject who is not using the CRS 5 in the vehicle ("Yes" in step S5), the processor 11 estimates the age Ag of the occupant Mc based on the acquired image Gd through the occupant image detection unit 11a2 (step S6). Next, the processor 11 determines whether the estimated age Ag is less than the specified age (less than 6 years old in this embodiment) through the determination unit 11b (step S7). When the age Ag is less than 6 years old ("Yes" in step S7), the processor 11 performs a notification process to urge the use of the CRS 5 through the notification unit 23 (step S8). In this case, the notification unit 23 displays a message to the effect of "recommended use of a child seat", or reports it through sound. In addition, the content of the notification process can also be changed appropriately.

[0049] On the other hand, if the age Ag is 6 years or older (No in step S7), the processor 11 does not perform notification processing to urge the use of the CRS 5. Figure 4 As shown, the notification process for urging the use of the CRS 5 is executed only when there is a passenger Mc under the age of 6, and the notification process for urging the use of the CRS 5 is not executed when there is a passenger Mc over the age of 6.

[0050] Currently, the obligation to use CRS 5 is expanding in various countries. In Japan, it is mandatory for children (infants) under the age of six to use CRS 5. Therefore, in Japan, notification processing urging the use of CRS 5 is performed only when there are passengers Mc under the age of six in the vehicle. This can promote compliance with the obligation to use CRS 5 and achieve improved safety. On the other hand, notification processing is not performed when passengers Mc who are not obligated to use CRS 5 are on board, thereby avoiding excessive enforcement of CRS 5.

[0051] Here, the information acquired in the first embodiment, namely, the weight Wt of the passenger Mc, the image Gd of the passenger Mc, and the age Ag of the passenger Mc, corresponds to the "identification information related to the auxiliary tool" of the present invention. Specifically, in the first embodiment, based on the weight Wt, the image Gd, and the age Ag, the determination unit 11b determines whether a CRS subject who is not using the CRS 5 is on board. If a CRS subject who is not using the CRS 5 is on board, the notification unit 23 performs notification processing to urge the passenger to use the CRS 5.

[0052] As a result, the notification process for urging the installation of the CRS 5 can be appropriately performed, and the occupant Mc can be appropriately protected by the CRS 5 .

[0053] Furthermore, the configuration of the notification unit 23 and the assistive tool notification process may be modified as appropriate.

[0054] Figure 5 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a vehicle 100 equipped with a notification device 1 according to a second embodiment.

[0055] The second embodiment includes a radar sensor 24 capable of acquiring 3D point cloud data of the occupant Mc using radar light, rather than the weight sensor 22 of the first embodiment. Furthermore, the ECU 10 includes an occupant image detection unit 11a2 and an occupant height detection unit 11a3, which detects the height of the occupant Mc based on the point cloud data representing the occupant Mc's appearance, by having the processor 11 read and execute a program 12p. Furthermore, the notification device 1 of the second embodiment does not include the weight detection unit 11a1 of the first embodiment. Components identical to those of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and repeated descriptions are omitted.

[0056] The radar sensor 24 is mounted on the interior ceiling of the vehicle 100 and can acquire 3D point cloud data of at least the occupant Mc on the rear seat 2R. The occupant height detection unit 11a3 can detect the height of the head of the occupant Mc based on the acquired point cloud data.

[0057] Furthermore, the position and number of the radar sensors 24 may be modified as appropriate. For example, 3D point cloud data of the occupant Mc in the front seat 2F (e.g., the passenger seat) may be acquired. Furthermore, the radar sensor 24 may be replaced with another sensor such as a stereo camera to acquire 3D point cloud data of the occupant Mc within the required accuracy.

[0058] Figure 6 This is a flowchart showing the basic operation (corresponding to the assisting tool notification process) of the notification device 1 according to the second embodiment.

[0059] like Figure 6As shown, when the vehicle power is turned on (for example, the ignition switch is turned on) ("Yes" in step S1), the processor 11 obtains the image Gd composed of the photographic data of the photographic device 21 through the passenger image detection unit 11a2 (step S2a), and determines whether there is a passenger Mc based on the obtained image Gd (step 3a).

[0060] If it is determined that there is a passenger Mc ("Yes" in step S3a), the processor 11 estimates the age Ag of the passenger Mc based on the acquired image Gd using the passenger image detection unit 11a2 (step S4a), and determines whether the estimated age Ag is under 6 years old using the determination unit 11b (step S5a). If the age Ag is under 6 years old ("Yes" in step S5a), the processor 11 detects the height Hm of the head of the passenger Mc using the passenger height detection unit 11a3 (step S6a), and determines whether there is a CRS target person who does not use the CRS 5 based on the head height Hm (step S7a).

[0061] Figure 7 It is a diagram for explaining step S7a.

[0062] like Figure 7 As shown, the height Ha of the head of the CRS subject when not using CRS 5 is lower than the height Hb of the head of the CRS subject when using CRS 5. In the processing of step S7a, a prescribed height Hc is set, and the prescribed height Hc can identify whether it is the height Ha of the head of the CRS subject when not using CRS 5 or the height Hb of the head of the CRS subject when using CRS. When the detected head height Hm is less than the prescribed height Hc, it is determined that there is a CRS subject who does not use CRS 5.

[0063] Since there are deviations in the height of the CRS subject and the size of CRS 5, the specified height Hc can be set to an appropriate value within a range that can obtain sufficient accuracy by taking these into consideration. For example, by setting the lower limit value of the height Hb of the head of the CRS subject when using CRS 5, when the height Hm of the head is less than the specified height Hc, it is easy to determine with high accuracy that it is a CRS subject who is not using CRS 5.

[0064] In addition, Figure 7 The figure illustrates a case where the presence of a CRS subject not using the CRS 5 is determined based on the head height relative to the bottom surface of the rear seat 2R, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the presence of a CRS subject not using the CRS 5 may also be determined based on the vertical center position of the head, the position (height) of the eyes, or the position (height) of the nose. In short, the head height may be appropriately set within a range that allows determination of whether the subject is a CRS subject not using the CRS 5.

[0065] return Figure 6 When it is determined that there is a CRS target person who has not used the CRS 5 ("Yes" in step S7a), the processor 11 performs a notification process of urging the use of the CRS 5 via the notification unit 23 (step S8).

[0066] like Figure 6 As shown, when the vehicle power is not turned on ("No" in step S1), when there is no passenger Mc based on the image Gd (step S3a), when the age Ag is over 6 years old ("No" in step S5a), or when there is no CRS target person who is not using CRS 5 ("No" in step S7a), the processor 11 does not perform the notification processing to urge the use of CRS 5.

[0067] In the second embodiment, the image Gd indicating the presence of the passenger Mc, the age Ag, and the head height Hm of the passenger Mc correspond to the "identification information related to the assistive tool" of the present invention. Specifically, in the second embodiment, the determination unit 11b can determine whether a CRS subject who is not using the CRS 5 is on board based on the image Gd, the age Ag, and the head height Hm. If a CRS subject who is not using the CRS 5 is on board, the notification unit 23 performs notification processing urging the passenger to use the CRS 5.

[0068] This makes it possible to appropriately issue a notification urging installation of the CRS 5 , and similarly to the first embodiment, it is possible to obtain effects such as enabling appropriate protection of the occupant Mc by the CRS 5 .

[0069] In the second embodiment, since the weight sensor 22 is not required, there is no need to prepare a rear seat 2R equipped with a weight sensor. Furthermore, the radar sensor 24 detects the head height Hm of the occupant Mc as information that changes depending on whether the CRS 5 is in use. This height Hm is used as one piece of identification information for determining whether a CRS subject who is not using the CRS 5 is on board. This facilitates sufficient accuracy in determining whether a CRS subject who is not using the CRS 5 is on board.

[0070] The configuration and basic operation (corresponding to the assisting tool notification process) of the first embodiment and the second embodiment can be modified as appropriate.

[0071] Figure 8 FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a modified example of a part of the basic operation (corresponding to the auxiliary tool notification process) of the notification device 1. Figure 8As shown, the processor 11 detects the wearing position of the seat belt relative to the occupant Mc using image recognition technology through the occupant image detection unit 11a2 (step S1b), and determines whether the wearing position of the seat belt relative to the occupant Mc is inappropriate (or unsuitable) (step S2b).

[0072] like Figure 8 As shown, if the occupant Mc is smaller than the intended user of the seat belt, the seat belt is displaced from the appropriate position for the occupant Mc, and therefore the occupant Mc is determined not to be the intended user of the seat belt, i.e., the seat belt is inappropriate. On the other hand, if the occupant Mc has the body size of the intended user of the seat belt, the seat belt is in the appropriate position for the occupant Mc, and therefore the occupant Mc is determined to be the intended user of the seat belt, i.e., the seat belt is appropriate. By performing this determination by the determination unit 11b, it is possible to determine whether the seat belt is inappropriate based on the seat belt wearing position.

[0073] If the seat belt is not suitable ("Not Suitable" in step S2b), the processor 11 performs notification processing (step S8) to urge the use of the CRS 5 via the notification unit 23. On the other hand, if the seat belt is suitable ("Suitable" in step S2b), the processor 11 ends the basic operation.

[0074] Therefore, when an occupant Mc who is not the intended user of the seat belt is on board, notification processing for urging the use of CRS 5 can be executed, and when an occupant Mc who is the intended user of the seat belt is on board, notification processing for urging the use of CRS 5 can be not executed, thereby avoiding situations such as excessive forced use of CRS 5.

[0075] Figure 9 1 is a diagram showing a modified example of a part of the basic operation (corresponding to the auxiliary tool notification process) of the notification device 1. Figure 9 In the embodiment, the passenger height detection unit 11 a 3 can detect the height Lm of the passenger Mc present in the rear seat 2R.

[0076] The configuration of the occupant height detection unit 11a3 is not particularly limited. For example, the imaging device 21 may be configured to capture the entire body of the occupant Mc when the occupant Mc enters or exits the vehicle 100. The occupant height detection unit 11a3 may then utilize image recognition technology to estimate the occupant Mc's height Lm based on the entire body image of the occupant Mc in the image Gd captured by the imaging device 21. Alternatively, the radar sensor 24 may be configured to acquire 3D point cloud data, including at least the head, of the occupant Mc when entering or exiting the vehicle 100. The occupant height detection unit 11a3 may then detect the occupant Mc's height Lm based on the point cloud data.

[0077] like Figure 9 As shown, the processor 11 estimates the age Ag of the occupant Mc based on the acquired image Gd through the occupant image detection unit 11a2 (step S6). When the estimated age Ag is less than 6 years old ("Yes" in step S7), the first notification processing urging the use of CRS 5 is performed through the notification unit 23 (step S8c).

[0078] On the other hand, when the inferred age Ag is over 6 years old ("No" in step S7), the processor 11 detects the height Lm of the occupant Mc through the occupant height detection unit 11a3 (step S10c), and determines whether the height Lm of the occupant Mc is less than the specified height La through the determination unit 11b (step S11c).

[0079] The predetermined height La is set to the upper limit of the height for which the seat belt 7 is not suitable, or a value around it. Figure 10 As shown, the predetermined height La is set to, for example, an upper limit (eg, 140 cm) of the height at which the seat belt 7 cannot be used. The predetermined height La also includes heights of 6 years and above for which the use of the CRS 5 is not required (not mandatory).

[0080] like Figure 10 As shown, in the case of an occupant Mc under the age of 6, a suitable CRS can be a CRS 5 corresponding to those under 6 years old. Furthermore, in the case of an occupant Mc over 6 years old and below the height La, suitable auxiliary equipment 5 can be a child seat or a big boy seat adapted to the height La, or an auxiliary belt for an infant adapted to the height La. Furthermore, for an occupant Mc exceeding the height La, a suitable auxiliary equipment 5 is a seat belt.

[0081] Figure 9 The first notification process shown is a notification process that urges the passenger Mc under the age of 6 to use an appropriate CRS 5. For example, a message to the effect of "child seat recommended" is displayed. This can encourage the use of an appropriate CRS 5 from among multiple CRSs and encourage compliance with CRS 5 usage obligations.

[0082] On the other hand, when the height Lm of the occupant Mc is smaller than the predetermined height La (YES in step S7 ), the processor 11 performs a second notification process of urging the use of another CRS via the notification unit 23 (step S12 c ).

[0083] The second notification process is different from the first notification process and is a process that urges the use of a CRS that is suitable for the height La. For example, the second notification process displays a message that means "It is recommended to use a child seat, a big child seat, or an auxiliary belt for toddlers that is suitable for the height La." Figure 10During the period shown as the recommended CRS usage period for children aged 6 and above and up to height La, appropriate CRS use can be urged.

[0084] Furthermore, the first notification process is preferably executed with a higher notification intensity than the second notification process. Notification intensity refers to the intensity required to attract the attention and concern of the occupant (e.g., the protector of the occupant Mc). For example, the notification intensity can be varied by varying the content of the displayed message, the font type and size, the message decoration or background, the sound and volume of sound effects, and so on.

[0085] By executing the first notification process with a higher notification intensity than the second notification process, when the passenger Mc who is obligated to use the CRS 5 boards the vehicle, it is possible to strongly recommend the use of the CRS 5. Furthermore, when the passenger Mc who is not obligated to use the CRS but would prefer to use the CRS boards the vehicle, it is possible to suggest or recommend the use of the preferred CRS, thereby avoiding excessively forcing the use of the CRS.

[0086] In addition, according to Figure 9 In the flowchart shown, the notification process for urging the use of the CRS is not executed for the passenger Mc who exceeds the height La. This can avoid urging the use of the CRS when there is no passenger Mc who is the target of using the CRS on board.

[0087] In addition, as another method, the occupant height detection unit 11a3 can be used to detect the height of the occupant Mc (the height Hm of the head, the upper and lower center positions of the head, the position (height) of the eyes or nose) which changes depending on whether the CRS 5 is used. If it is determined that the height of the occupant Mc is above a specified height that can identify whether the occupant Mc is using the CRS 5, the notification process of urging the use of the CRS 5 is not performed.

[0088] As described above, the notification device 1 includes an occupant detection unit 11a, a notification unit 23, and a determination unit 11b for determining whether the occupant Mc is using the CRS 5. The occupant detection unit 11a obtains identification information related to the CRS 5 from the occupant Mc (for example, at least any one of the weight Wt of the occupant Mc, the image Gd of the occupant Mc, and the age Ag of the occupant Mc). The determination unit 11b determines whether the occupant Mc is the intended user of the CRS 5 based on the identification information. When the notification unit 23 determines that the occupant Mc is the intended user of the CRS 5, it performs notification processing to urge the occupant to use the CRS 5.

[0089] According to this configuration, it is possible to appropriately issue a notification urging the use of the CRS 5, and to appropriately protect the occupant Mc by the CRS 5. Furthermore, it is possible to further improve traffic safety and contribute to the development of a sustainable transportation system.

[0090] In addition, the passenger detection unit 11a includes a passenger height detection unit 11a3 capable of detecting the height of the passenger Mc (for example, at least one of the head height Hm and the body height Lm). The identification information is information other than the height of the passenger Mc in the information related to the auxiliary tool 5 (for example, at least one of the weight Wt of the passenger Mc, the image Gd of the passenger Mc, and the age Ag of the passenger Mc). The determination unit 11b further determines whether the passenger Mc is an object of use of the CRS 5 based on the height of the passenger Mc. If it is determined that the passenger Mc is not an object of use of the CRS 5 (equivalent to the height of the passenger Mc), the determination unit 11b determines whether the passenger Mc is an object of use of the CRS 5. Figure 9 "No" in step S7 shown in FIG), and based on the height of the occupant Mc, it is determined that the occupant Mc is a CRS (equivalent to Figure 10 In the case of a user who is a child seat with a height of La, the notification unit 23 performs a notification process (equivalent to a notification process) to urge the use of CRS. Figure 9 Steps S10c to S12c shown).

[0091] According to this configuration, it is possible to appropriately perform notification urging the use of the CRS, and appropriately protect the occupant Mc using the CRS.

[0092] In addition, the occupant detection unit 11a can detect the wearing position of the seat belt relative to the occupant Mc, and the determination unit 11b determines whether the seat belt 7 is suitable for the occupant Mc based on the wearing position. If it is determined that it is not suitable for the occupant Mc, it is determined that the occupant Mc is the user of the CRS 5 other than the seat belt.

[0093] According to this configuration, when the seat belt 7 is not suitable for the body of the occupant Mc, that is, when the occupant Mc is smaller than the intended user of the seat belt 7, use of the CRS 5 other than the seat belt 7 can be urged, thereby appropriately protecting the occupant Mc.

[0094] In addition, when the determination unit 11b determines that the occupant Mc is the user of the CRS 5 based on the identification information, the notification unit 23 performs a first notification process to urge the use of the CRS 5. When the determination unit 11b determines that the occupant Mc is not the user of the CRS 5 and that the height of the occupant Mc is less than the specified height Hc, the notification unit 23 performs a second notification process different from the first notification process.

[0095] This configuration allows for different notifications depending on whether the occupant Mc is identified as a CRS user based on identification information or based on the occupant Mc's height. This allows for the occupant Mc to be advised or suggested regarding preferred CRS usage.

[0096] Moreover, the first notification processing is a notification processing that urges the use of CRS 5 (for example, a child seat), and the second notification processing is a notification processing that urges the use of other CRSs suitable for the case where the height of the occupant Mc is below the specified height (for example, a child seat corresponding to a relatively tall height, a large child seat or an auxiliary belt for toddlers).

[0097] According to this configuration, the occupant Mc can be urged to use a more appropriate CRS.

[0098] In addition, the CRS 5 is an example of the "first assisting tool" of the present invention, and the other CRSs are examples of the "second assisting tool" of the present invention.

[0099] Furthermore, the notification unit 23 can perform appropriate notification that strongly recommends the use of the CRS 5 to the occupant Mc who has an obligation to use the CRS 5 by executing the first notification process with a higher notification intensity than the second notification process.

[0100] In addition, the occupant detection unit 11a also includes a weight detection unit 11a1 that can detect the weight Wt of the occupant Mc including the CRS 5. The judgment unit 11b judges whether the weight Wt is above the specified weight ma (it can identify whether it is the total weight of the CRS 5 and the occupant Mc, or the weight of the occupant Mc alone). If it is determined that the weight Wt is above the specified weight ma, the notification unit 23 does not perform the notification processing to urge the use of the CRS 5.

[0101] According to this configuration, when the occupant Mc is using the CRS 5 , it is possible to avoid performing a notification process that prompts the occupant Mc to use the CRS 5 .

[0102] In addition, the occupant detection unit 11a also has an occupant height detection unit 11a3, which can detect the height of the occupant Mc that changes depending on whether the CRS 5 is used (for example, at least any one of the height Hm of the head, the upper and lower center positions of the head, and the position (height) of the eyes or nose). When the determination unit 11b determines that the height Hm of the occupant Mc is above a specified height that can identify whether the occupant Mc is using the CRS 5, the notification unit 23 does not perform notification processing to urge the use of the CRS 5.

[0103] According to this configuration, when the occupant Mc is using the CRS 5 , it is possible to avoid performing a notification process that prompts the occupant to use the CRS 5 .

[0104] Here, the height Hm of the occupant Mc's head is the height of the occupant Mc's head relative to the seat in the vehicle, and can be said to be a height equivalent to the sitting height of the occupant Mc. Therefore, even when the occupant Mc is seated in the vehicle, the height Hm of the occupant Mc can be easily detected.

[0105] The present invention is not limited to the configurations of the above-described embodiments, and can be implemented in various forms without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

[0106] For example, in each of the above-described embodiments, the vehicle 100 may be configured to be set to either a driving state for personal use or a driving state for commercial use. In the driving state for personal use, the determination unit 11b determines whether the occupant Mc is eligible for use of the CRS 5, but does not determine whether the occupant Mc is eligible for use of the CRS 5 in the driving state for commercial use. This allows notification processing urging the use of the CRS 5 to be performed only when the occupant Mc is on board the vehicle in the driving state for personal use and is not eligible for use of the CRS 5. This prevents excessive notification processing urging the use of the CRS 5 in the commercial use state. Consequently, notification urging the use of the CRS 5 can be appropriately performed, allowing the occupant Mc to be appropriately protected using the CRS.

[0107] In the above-mentioned embodiment, the present invention is applied to Figure 1 The present invention relates to the notification device 1 and vehicle 100 shown in FIG. 1 , but is not limited thereto. Furthermore, the type, combination, and number of sensors included in the notification device 1 may be appropriately changed. Furthermore, the division method and processing order of the processing units in each flowchart are not limited to the examples shown in the figures.

[0108] Alternatively, the program 12p may be stored in an external device or apparatus and obtained via communication. Alternatively, the program 12p may be pre-recorded in a computer-readable recording medium. A magnetic recording medium, an optical recording medium, or a semiconductor storage device may be used as the recording medium. Specifically, portable or fixed recording media such as floppy disks, various optical disks, magneto-optical disks, flash memories, and card-type recording media may be cited. Alternatively, the recording medium may be a non-volatile storage device such as a RAM, ROM, or HDD, which is an internal storage device of the image display device.

[0109] [Structure supported by the above-mentioned embodiment]

[0110] The above-mentioned embodiment is a specific example of the following structure.

[0111] (Structure 1) A notification device comprising: an occupant detection unit capable of detecting an occupant in a vehicle; a notification unit for notifying the occupant; and a determination unit for determining whether the occupant is using an auxiliary tool, wherein the occupant detection unit obtains identification information related to the auxiliary tool from the occupant, and the determination unit determines whether the occupant is an object of use of the auxiliary tool based on the identification information. If it is determined that the occupant is an object of use of the auxiliary tool, the notification unit performs notification processing to urge the occupant to use the auxiliary tool.

[0112] According to this structure, it is possible to appropriately issue a notification urging the use of auxiliary tools, and to appropriately protect passengers using the auxiliary tools. Furthermore, it is possible to further improve traffic safety and contribute to the development of a sustainable transportation system.

[0113] (Structure 2) In the notification device of Structure 1, the occupant detection unit includes an occupant height detection unit capable of detecting the height of the occupant, the identification information is information related to the auxiliary tool other than the height of the occupant, and the determination unit also determines whether the occupant is the target of use of the auxiliary tool based on the height of the occupant. When it is determined that the occupant is not the target of use of the auxiliary tool and it is determined that the occupant is the target of use of the auxiliary tool based on the height of the occupant, the notification unit performs notification processing to urge the occupant to use the auxiliary tool.

[0114] According to this configuration, it is possible to appropriately perform notification urging the use of auxiliary tools, and to appropriately protect the occupant using the auxiliary tools.

[0115] (Structure 3) In the notification device of Structure 1 or 2, the occupant detection unit is capable of detecting the wearing position of the seat belt relative to the occupant, and the determination unit determines whether the seat belt is suitable for the occupant based on the wearing position. If it is determined that the seat belt is not suitable for the occupant, it is determined that the occupant is the user of the auxiliary tool other than the seat belt.

[0116] According to this configuration, when an occupant smaller than the intended user of the seat belt rides in the vehicle, the use of auxiliary means other than the seat belt can be promoted, thereby achieving appropriate protection of the occupant.

[0117] (Structure 4) In the notification device of Structure 2, when the determination unit determines that the occupant is the user of the auxiliary tool based on the identification information, the notification unit performs a first notification process; when the determination unit determines that the occupant is not the user of the auxiliary tool and that the height of the occupant is less than a specified height, the notification unit performs a second notification process that is different from the first notification process.

[0118] This configuration allows for different notifications when the occupant is determined to be a suitable user of an assistive device based on identification information and when the occupant is determined to be a suitable user of an assistive device based on the occupant's height. This allows for the occupant to be advised or suggested to use a preferred assistive device.

[0119] (Structure 5) In the notification device of Structure 4, the first notification processing is a notification processing that urges the use of a first auxiliary tool, and the second notification processing is a notification processing that urges the use of a second auxiliary tool suitable for a case where the height of the occupant is below a predetermined height.

[0120] According to this configuration, the occupant can be urged to use a more appropriate assist tool.

[0121] (Structure 6) In the notification device of Structure 5, the notification section executes the first notification process with a higher notification intensity than the second notification process.

[0122] According to this configuration, for example, in the case of an occupant who has a duty to use an assistive device, appropriate notification strongly recommending the use of the assistive device can be made.

[0123] (Structure 7) In the notification device of any one of Structures 1 to 6, the occupant detection unit further includes a weight detection unit capable of detecting the weight of the occupant including the auxiliary tool, and the determination unit determines whether the weight is greater than a specified weight. If it is determined that the weight is greater than the specified weight, the notification unit does not perform notification processing to urge the use of the auxiliary tool.

[0124] According to this configuration, it is possible to avoid performing a notification process that urges the passenger to use the assistive tool when the passenger is using the assistive tool.

[0125] (Configuration 8) In the notification device of any one of Configurations 1 to 7, the occupant detection unit further includes an occupant height detection unit, which is capable of detecting the height of the occupant that changes depending on whether the auxiliary tool is used, and when the determination unit determines that the height is above a specified height, the notification unit does not perform notification processing to urge the use of the auxiliary tool.

[0126] According to this configuration, it is possible to avoid performing a notification process that urges the passenger to use the assistive tool when the passenger is using the assistive tool.

[0127] (Configuration 9) In the notification device of Configuration 8, the height of the occupant is the height of the occupant's head with reference to a seat in the vehicle.

[0128] According to this configuration, the height of the occupant can be easily detected even when the occupant is seated in the vehicle seat.

[0129] (Structure 10) In the notification device of any one of Structures 1 to 9, the vehicle can be set to a driving state for personal use or a driving state for commercial use, and the determination unit determines whether the occupant is the user of the auxiliary tool in the case of the driving state for personal use.

[0130] According to this structure, notification processing urging the use of auxiliary tools can be performed only in the case of personal driving and when a passenger who is not the user of the auxiliary tools is on the vehicle, which can avoid excessive notification processing urging the use of auxiliary tools in the case of commercial use.

Claims

1. A notification device comprising: an occupant detection unit capable of detecting an occupant in the vehicle; a notification unit for notifying the occupant; and a determination unit for determining whether the occupant is using an assistive tool, in, The passenger detection unit obtains identification information related to the auxiliary tool from the passenger, The determination unit determines whether the passenger is a user of the assisting tool based on the identification information. The notification unit performs notification processing to urge the occupant to use the assisting tool when it is determined that the occupant is a target user of the assisting tool.

2. The notification device according to claim 1, wherein: The occupant detection unit includes an occupant height detection unit capable of detecting the height of the occupant. The identification information is information related to the assistive tool other than the height of the occupant, The determination unit further determines whether the occupant is a user of the assisting tool based on the height of the occupant. The notification unit performs notification processing to urge the occupant to use the assisting tool when it is determined that the occupant is not a user of the assisting tool and when it is determined based on the height of the occupant that the occupant is a user of the assisting tool.

3. The notification device according to claim 1, wherein: The occupant detection unit is capable of detecting a wearing position of the seat belt relative to the occupant, The determination unit determines whether the seat belt is suitable for the occupant based on the wearing position, and if it is determined that the seat belt is not suitable for the occupant, determines that the occupant is a user of the auxiliary tool other than the seat belt.

4. The notification device according to claim 2, wherein: When the determination unit determines that the occupant is a user of the assisting tool based on the identification information, the notification unit performs a first notification process. When the determination unit determines that the occupant is not a user of the assisting tool and that the height of the occupant is less than a predetermined height, the notification unit performs a second notification process different from the first notification process.

5. The notification device according to claim 4, wherein: The first notification process is a notification process for urging the use of the first auxiliary tool. The second notification process is a notification process for urging the user to use a second assistance tool suitable for a case where the height of the occupant is equal to or less than a predetermined height.

6. The notification device according to claim 5, wherein: The notification section executes the first notification process at a higher notification intensity than the second notification process.

7. The notification device according to claim 1, wherein: The passenger detection unit further includes a weight detection unit capable of detecting the weight of the passenger including the assisting tool. The determination unit determines whether the weight is greater than a predetermined weight. When it is determined that the weight is equal to or greater than the predetermined weight, the notification unit does not perform notification processing for urging the user to use the assisting tool.

8. The notification device according to claim 1, wherein: The occupant detection unit further includes an occupant height detection unit capable of detecting the height of the occupant that changes depending on whether the assist tool is used. When the determination unit determines that the height is equal to or higher than a predetermined height, the notification unit does not perform notification processing for urging the user to use the assisting tool.

9. The notification device according to claim 8, wherein: The occupant height is the height of the occupant's head with reference to a seat in the vehicle.

10. The notification device according to claim 1, wherein The vehicle can be set to a driving state for personal use or a driving state for commercial use. The determination unit determines whether the occupant is a user of the assist tool in a driving state utilized by the individual.

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