Driving assistance device, driving assistance method, and program product

Abstract

The present invention relates to a driving assistance device, a driving assistance method, and a program product, the driving assistance device including one or more processors configured to: set an instruction in a unified manner for a group configured to be able to add or delete a driving assistance function of a vehicle; the setting is a setting for the driving assistance function included in the group; and performing condition restriction control to restrict the establishment of a specific condition based on the relationship between the plurality of driving assistance functions in the group, the specific condition being a state in which both a first driving assistance function and a second driving assistance function are present in the group. The second driving assistance function is a function opposite to the first driving assistance function.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a driving assistance device, a driving assistance method, and a program product. Background Art

[0002] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2007-196854 discloses an apparatus and method capable of grouping a plurality of driving assistance functions based on driving assistance content and activating the driving assistance functions in response to instructions from a user.

[0003] In the related art, any driving assistance function (hereinafter referred to as a "function") can be added to or removed from a group. However, even if there are functions that do not work depending on conditions, adding or removing such functions from a group may cause the functions to not work.

[0004] For example, there are situations where there are prerequisite functions. For example, for a lane tracking assist function that assists with steering maneuvers in order to be able to drive in the center of the same lane, a radar cruise control function that assists with vehicle speed control such as acceleration and deceleration according to the distance from the vehicle in front is required as a prerequisite function. In addition, for a driver abnormality response system function that determines abnormalities such as acute illness of the driver, a lane tracking assist function that detects the grip and operation of the steering wheel is required as a prerequisite function. If the prerequisite function is deleted from the group, the result is that the remaining function does not work. In addition, if the prerequisite function is not in the group, even if it is added, the added function will not work.

[0005] Furthermore, there are cases where contradictory functions exist. For example, a speed limiter, which suppresses acceleration exceeding the user-set speed, is countered by a radar cruise control function that occurs during acceleration. Furthermore, the driver assistance functions themselves may be set differently between a group that sets the assistance level to a high level and a group that sets the assistance level to a low level for energy-saving driving. If functions that cannot operate simultaneously exist in a group, one of them may not operate. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The present disclosure provides a driving assistance device, a driving assistance method, and a program product that can prevent a driving assistance function from failing to operate depending on conditions and causing confusion to a user.

[0007] The driving assistance device involved in the first embodiment of the present disclosure includes one or more processors, which are configured to: instruct a unified setting for a group configured to add or delete driving assistance functions of a vehicle, the above-mentioned setting being a setting for the above-mentioned driving assistance functions included in the above-mentioned group; and perform conditional restriction control to restrict the situation where a specific condition based on the relationship between multiple driving assistance functions in the above-mentioned group is satisfied, the above-mentioned specific condition being a state in which both the first driving assistance function and the second driving assistance function are present in the above-mentioned group, and the above-mentioned second driving assistance function is a function opposite to the above-mentioned first driving assistance function.

[0008] Driving assistance functions are organized into groups. The driving assistance device described above restricts instructions to the group to specific conditions that require two or more opposing driving assistance functions to be present in the group. This prevents users from accidentally making settings that interfere with the operation of the driving assistance functions.

[0009] In the driving assistance device according to the above aspect, the specific condition is when the first driving assistance function exists in the group and the second driving assistance function is added to the group. According to the driving assistance device described in the above aspect, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of adverse settings when adding to the group.

[0010] In the driving assistance device according to the above aspect, the conditional restriction control is control for deleting the first driving assistance function from the group when the specific condition is met. According to the driving assistance device described in the above aspect, when a user performs an operation such as adding a function, the opposite function is deleted, thereby preventing the occurrence of an undesirable situation.

[0011] In the driving assistance device according to the above embodiment, the conditional restriction control is control for restricting the addition of the second driving assistance function to the group. According to the driving assistance device described in the above embodiment, when a user performs an operation such as adding a function, the opposite function is deleted, thereby preventing the occurrence of an undesirable situation.

[0012] In the driving assistance device according to the above embodiment, the conditional restriction control includes displaying a character string or icon indicating that the first driving assistance function and the second driving assistance function cannot coexist. The driving assistance device according to the above embodiment can visually notify the user of the opposite function during setting, thereby improving user convenience.

[0013] The driving assistance method involved in the second embodiment of the present disclosure includes: performing conditional restriction control to restrict the situation where a specific condition based on the relationship between multiple driving assistance functions within a group configured to be able to add or delete the driving assistance functions of the vehicle is satisfied, the specific condition being a state in which both the first driving assistance function and the second driving assistance function are present in the group, and the second driving assistance function is a function opposite to the first driving assistance function; and uniformly providing instructions for the settings of the driving assistance functions included in the group.

[0014] The driving assistance program product involved in the third embodiment of the present disclosure includes: performing conditional restriction control to restrict the situation where a specific condition based on the relationship between multiple driving assistance functions within a group configured to be able to add or delete driving assistance functions of a vehicle is satisfied, the specific condition being a state in which both the first driving assistance function and the second driving assistance function are present in the group, and the second driving assistance function is a function opposite to the first driving assistance function; and uniformly providing instructions for the settings of the driving assistance functions included in the group.

[0015] According to the technology of the present disclosure, it is possible to prevent user confusion caused by a driving assistance function not operating depending on conditions. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016] Hereinafter, features, advantages, technical and industrial significance of exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals represent like structural elements, wherein:

[0017] Figure 1 It is a diagram showing the configuration of a driving assistance system according to an embodiment.

[0018] Figure 2 This is a diagram showing an example of a setting screen when setting a driving assistance function in a group.

[0019] Figure 3 This is a diagram showing an example of a setting screen when individually setting the driving assistance functions of a group.

[0020] Figure 4 This is a diagram showing an example of assigning icons representing the respective driving assistance functions to the driving assistance functions.

[0021] Figure 5 This is a diagram showing an example of a screen on which a driving assistance function icon can be added to a group by selecting the icon.

[0022] Figure 6 This is a diagram showing the hardware configuration of the driving assistance device.

[0023] Figure 7This is an example of the functional structure of a driving assistance device.

[0024] Figure 8 This is a diagram showing an example of how icons flash and shake.

[0025] Figure 9 This is a flowchart illustrating the flow of a driving assistance process as a driving assistance method executed by the driving assistance device according to the present embodiment.

[0026] Figure 10A This is a diagram showing an example of settings of driving assistance functions included in a group allocated to safety settings corresponding to the second embodiment.

[0027] Figure 10B This is a diagram showing an example of settings of driving assistance functions included in a group allocated to safety settings corresponding to the second embodiment.

[0028] Figure 10C This is an example of a setting screen where individual detailed function settings can be changed.

[0029] Figure 10D This is a flowchart illustrating the flow of a driving assistance process as a driving assistance method according to the second embodiment.

[0030] Figure 11A This is an example of a setting screen on which settings related to parking assistance can be selected.

[0031] Figure 11B This is an example of the parking assist function list screen.

[0032] Figure 11C This is an example of a setting screen where detailed function settings related to parking assistance can be changed.

[0033] Figure 11D This is a flowchart illustrating the flow of a driving assistance process as a driving assistance method according to the third embodiment.

[0034] Figure 12A This is an example of a setting screen on which settings related to the night assist function can be selected.

[0035] Figure 12B This is an example of a setting screen that enables customization of the individual driving assistance function of the night assist function.

[0036] Figure 12C This is a flowchart illustrating the flow of a driving assistance process as a driving assistance method executed by the driving assistance device according to the fourth embodiment.

[0037] Figure 13A This is an example of a setting screen on which settings related to the assist level can be selected.

[0038] Figure 13B This is an example of the assist level list screen.

[0039] Figure 13C This is an example of a detailed screen where each assist level can be set.

[0040] Figure 13D This is a flowchart illustrating the flow of a driving assistance process as a driving assistance method according to the fifth embodiment.

[0041] Figure 14A This is an example of setting the monitoring notification function for a group assigned to Notification Assistant.

[0042] Figure 14B This is an example of a setting screen that enables setting changes of individual detailed functions of the notification assistance.

[0043] Figure 14C This is an example of a screen showing a notification of a work proposal.

[0044] Figure 14D This is a flowchart illustrating the flow of a driving assistance process as a driving assistance method according to the sixth embodiment.

[0045] Figure 14E This is a flowchart illustrating the flow of driving assistance processing related to operation suggestion in the sixth embodiment.

[0046] Figure 15A This is an example of setting the driving assistance function assigned to the group in the energy-saving driving mode.

[0047] Figure 15B This is an example of a detailed screen displaying the function details of the eco-drive mode.

[0048] Figure 15C This is a flowchart illustrating the flow of a driving assistance process as a driving assistance method according to the seventh embodiment.

[0049] Figure 16A This is an example of a setting screen on which settings related to the snow assist function can be selected.

[0050] Figure 16B This is an example of a setting screen that enables customization of the individual driving assistance functions of the snow assist function.

[0051] Figure 16C This is a flowchart illustrating the flow of a driving assistance process as a driving assistance method executed by the driving assistance device according to the eighth embodiment.

[0052] Figure 17AThis is a diagram showing an example of a setting screen when the driving assistance function according to the ninth embodiment is set in a group.

[0053] Figure 17B This is a diagram showing an example of a suggestion screen for notifying a suggestion for setting a driving assistance function according to the ninth embodiment in a group.

[0054] Figure 17C This is a flowchart illustrating the flow of a driving assistance process as a driving assistance method according to the ninth embodiment.

[0055] Figure 18A This is a diagram showing an example of a setting screen when the driving assistance function according to the tenth embodiment is set in a group.

[0056] Figure 18B This is a diagram showing an example of an advice screen for notifying a suggestion for setting a driving assistance function in a group according to the tenth embodiment.

[0057] Figure 18C This is a flowchart illustrating the flow of a driving assistance process as a driving assistance method according to a tenth embodiment.

[0058] Figure 19A This is a first example of a confirmation screen that displays the current setting contents of the driving assistance function.

[0059] Figure 19B This is a first flowchart for explaining the flow of a driving assistance process as a driving assistance method executed by the driving assistance device according to the eleventh embodiment.

[0060] Figure 19C This is a second example of a confirmation screen that displays the current settings of the driving assistance function.

[0061] Figure 19D This is a second flowchart for explaining the flow of a driving assistance process as a driving assistance method executed by the driving assistance device according to the eleventh embodiment.

[0062] Figure 19E This is a third example of a confirmation screen that displays the current settings of the driving assistance function.

[0063] Figure 19F This is a third flowchart for explaining the flow of a driving assistance process as a driving assistance method executed by the driving assistance device according to the eleventh embodiment.

[0064] Figure 20A This is an example of a screen suggesting chauffeur mode.

[0065] Figure 20BThis is an example of a unit setting screen for the driving assistance function related to disabling the notification function.

[0066] Figure 20C This is an example of a unit detail screen showing detailed functions related to the notification function disablement.

[0067] Figure 20D This is a flowchart illustrating the flow of a driving assistance process as a driving assistance method according to the twelfth embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0068] Hereinafter, examples of embodiments for implementing the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0069] The premise of each embodiment of the present disclosure is explained. The technology of the present disclosure presupposes that multiple driving assistance functions are added to a group, and settings for the driving assistance functions included in the group are collectively indicated. This unified indication, group by group, allows settings to be reflected collectively for the driving assistance functions included in the group (collective setting). A group, as used herein, refers to a functional grouping of a vehicle's driving assistance functions based on the purpose of the driving scenario, and is configured to allow the addition or removal of driving assistance functions. Examples of groups include "Peace of Mind Settings," "Driving Assistance Function On," "Driving Assistance Function / On at High Assistance Level," "Parking Assist Function On," "Parking Assist Function / On at High Alarm," "Notification Assist Function On," "Notification Assist Function / On at Early Notification," "Advanced Assist Timing," "Eco-Drive," and "System Operation Recommendation Off." Collective settings are settings for the driving assistance functions belonging to the group, pre-assigned to each driving assistance function based on the group's purpose. For example, the "Eco-Drive" group is assigned a setting that sets the "Acceleration Switching" level of the radar cruise control to "Weak." In the technology disclosed herein, by reflecting the settings together, it is possible to uniformly indicate the setting instructions for each driving assistance function included in the group. In addition, the settings assigned to the group can be changed arbitrarily by the user. Each driving assistance function will reflect the setting value of the instruction to accept the setting to the function, and control the function. By grouping and setting together, it is possible to reflect the settings corresponding to the purpose of the group for each driving assistance function, thereby improving user convenience. The various driving assistance functions and groups that can be added to the group will be described in the "Description of Driving Assistance Functions" and "Description of Groups" below. In addition, the method of grouping will be exemplified in the second embodiment and subsequent embodiments.

[0070] [First embodiment]

[0071] First, the first embodiment is described. The driving assistance system of this embodiment manages a plurality of driving assistance functions as a group as described above. In addition, as in the above-mentioned subject, when managing driving assistance functions in a group, there are "prerequisite functions (prerequisite functions)" and "opposite functions (opposite functions)" that should be considered between functions in order to avoid a situation where the functions do not work. Therefore, in this embodiment, conditional restriction control is performed. Conditional restriction control restricts specific conditions to be established due to user operations. Specific conditions are conditions based on the relationship between a plurality of driving assistance functions within a group, and are conditions that determine restrictions related to the prerequisite functions and the opposite functions. Details of the specific conditions will be described later.

[0072] Figure 1 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of a driving assistance system according to the first embodiment. Figure 1 As shown, the driving assistance system 1 includes a driving assistance device 12 provided inside the vehicle 10, a switch interface 13 for receiving user operations on the driving assistance function, a multimedia device 14 including a display screen capable of displaying the setting screen of the driving assistance function and a screen for user operations, and a mobile terminal 15 owned by the driver brought into the vehicle 10. As an example of the driving assistance device 12, a computer such as an ECU (Electronic Control Unit) can be cited. In addition, the structural example of the driving assistance system of this embodiment is shared in each embodiment described later. In addition, in the following description, the case where the driver is an example of a user of the present disclosure is described, but a fellow passenger who can operate the multimedia device 14 can also be a user.

[0073] The switch interface 13 and multimedia device 14 include interfaces for configuring groups. For example, the switch interface 13 includes various switches with pre-assigned settings for adding, modifying, and deleting driving assistance functions to groups. The various switches can be configured with any interface depending on the vehicle model. Examples of mobile terminals 15 include smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, and other computers.

[0074] The multimedia device 14 includes a touch-panel display that displays a group settings screen. This screen displays a list of groups, a list of individual driving assistance functions within a group, allows for group selection, and allows for operations such as adding, changing, or deleting driving assistance functions from a group. The multimedia device 14 also includes a navigation function using a GPS map display and other multimedia functions.

[0075] Figure 2 1 is a diagram showing an example of a setting screen when a driving assistance function is set in a group. Figure 2In the example, the setting screen (2A) has a selection area (a1) that can select each group to switch the display, a display area (a2) that displays the description of the switched group, a set together button (a3), a customize button (a4) and a return button (a5). If the user selects any group from the selection area (a1), the selected group is displayed in the display area (a2). If the set together button (a3) ​​is pressed when the group is displayed, the settings of the various driving assistance functions belonging to the group are uniformly indicated to the driving assistance function and reflected as the set together setting of the group. In addition, if the customize button (a4) is pressed, the various driving assistance functions that can be set in the group are displayed, and individual driving assistance functions can be added or deleted. In addition, an icon representing each driving assistance function can be assigned to each driving assistance function, and the icon can be selected or operated to add or delete the driving assistance function relative to the group. In addition, the individual driving assistance functions that can be added and deleted mentioned here include the driving assistance function itself and the various detailed functions included in the driving assistance function. In addition, if the return button (a5) is pressed, the settings will be changed to the collective settings of the previously set group.

[0076] Figure 3 This figure shows an example of a setting screen for individually setting a group's driving assistance function. In the setting screen (2B), in the setting area (b1), an interface for switching the individual driving assistance function on or off can be used to switch the individual driving assistance function on or off.

[0077] Figure 4 This figure shows an example of assigning icons representing various driving assistance functions to each driving assistance function. In the illustrated screen, the setting area (c1) shows a situation where driving assistance functions added to a group are represented as colored icons (c2), while driving assistance functions not added are represented as colorless icons (c3). The setting area (c1) can switch the display of the setting area (b1) to expand the display or overlap the display. The user can selectively add driving assistance functions to the group by operating the selection icon. In addition, the icon can be marked with a mark indicating that it is selected. Figure 5 This figure shows an example of a screen where a driver assistance function icon can be added to a group by selecting it. In the illustrated screen, the "Safety Settings" group area (d2) and the icons of the driver assistance functions assigned to this group are displayed in the setting area (d1). The user can add the driver assistance function icon they want to add by selecting it from the selection area (d3) and moving it to the group area (d2). In addition, when clicking an icon in the selection area (d3) to select it, an operation icon (d4) can be displayed to indicate that the selection and move are in progress.

[0078] Figure 6 This figure shows the hardware configuration of the driving assistance device 12. The driving assistance device 12 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 20, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 21, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 22, a wireless communication interface 23, a communication unit 24, and an in-vehicle communication interface 25. The CPU 20, ROM 21, RAM 22, wireless communication interface 23, communication unit 24, and in-vehicle communication interface 25 are interconnected for communication via a bus 27.

[0079] The CPU 20 is a central processing unit that executes various programs and controls various components. Specifically, the CPU 20 reads programs from the ROM 21 and executes the programs using the RAM 22 as a work area.

[0080] The ROM 21, serving as a storage unit, stores various programs and data. In this embodiment, the ROM 21 stores a control program 30 and specific condition data 31. The RAM 22 serves as a work area for temporarily storing programs and data. The control program 30 controls multiple driving assistance functions in groups. The specific condition data 31 contains criteria for determining specific conditions.

[0081] The wireless communication I / F 23 is an interface for connecting to the mobile terminal 15 via wireless communication. While the driving assistance device 12 and the mobile terminal 15 communicate directly with each other as an example, the disclosed technology is not limited to this embodiment. For example, the driving assistance device 12 and the mobile terminal 15 may communicate via a server computer installed on a network.

[0082] The communication unit 24 is an interface for connecting to a network when communicating with an external server such as the cloud server 16 . This interface uses, for example, a communication standard such as LTE (Long Term Evolution). The driving assistance device 12 can also communicate with the mobile terminal 15 via the cloud server 16 .

[0083] The in-vehicle communication I / F 25 is an interface for connecting to onboard equipment. This interface uses, for example, a communication standard based on the CAN (Controller Area Network) protocol. Onboard equipment includes the switch interface 13, multimedia device 14, tactile feedback device 42, exterior mirrors 43, electronic interior mirror 44, instrument buzzer 45, headlights 46, IR light emitter 47, instrument display 48, sensor units 50, 51, 52, and the autonomous driving ECU 60. The autonomous driving ECU 60 is an ECU that controls the autonomous driving of the vehicle 10. Furthermore, as an example, autonomous driving in this embodiment refers to autonomous driving in which the vehicle 10 is the primary driver, and is autonomous driving at Level 3 or higher as defined by the SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers). The autonomous driving ECU 60 is configured to be capable of performing autonomous driving processing at Level 3 or higher. While the driving assistance device 12 and the autonomous driving ECU 60 are separate components, they may also be integrated. The types of sensor units 50-52 are merely examples and are not intended to be limiting.

[0084] The sensor unit 50 includes a driver monitoring camera 110 , a steering sensor 111 , a brake sensor 112 , and an acceleration sensor 113 .

[0085] The driver monitoring camera 110 is a camera that captures the driver's driving conditions. Furthermore, the driver monitoring camera 110 is equipped with an ECU that controls the camera's image capture and detects the driver's condition from the captured dynamic images. The steering sensor 111 detects the driver's steering wheel operation. The brake sensor 112 detects the amount of brake pedal depression. The acceleration sensor 113 detects the amount of accelerator pedal depression.

[0086] The sensor unit 51 includes a vehicle speed sensor 120, an acceleration sensor 121, and a steering angle sensor 122 for detecting the behavior of the vehicle 10. The sensors of the sensor unit 51 detect the vehicle speed, acceleration, and steering angle.

[0087] The sensor unit 52 includes a front camera 130 , a rear camera 131 , side cameras 132 , a plurality of radars 133 , and a plurality of sonars 134 .

[0088] The front camera 130 is a camera installed near the front end portion of the vehicle 10, such as the upper portion of the windshield, and captures dynamic images of obstacles in front of the vehicle 10 and the vehicle in front. The dynamic images captured by the front camera 130 are displayed on, for example, a display of the multimedia device 14. The rear camera 131 is a camera installed near the rear end portion of the vehicle 10. As an example, it is a camera that captures dynamic images for parking assistance and auxiliary rear vision. The dynamic images captured by the rear camera 131 are displayed on, for example, an electronic rearview mirror 44. The side cameras 132 are multiple cameras installed near the left and right portions of the vehicle 10, and capture images in, for example, the front and side left and right directions and the rear and side left and right directions. The dynamic images captured by the side cameras 132 are displayed on, for example, a display of the multimedia device 14.

[0089] Radar 133 is comprised of multiple radar groups, including, for example, a front radar 133A, a rear radar 133B, a front side radar 133C, a rear side radar 133D, and multiple blind spot monitoring (BSM) radars (or sensors) 133E. The BSM radar 133E also functions as a sensor and is therefore also referred to as a BSM sensor 133E using the same reference numeral. Sonar 134 is a plurality of ultrasonic sonars (clearance sonars) installed in the front, rear, left, and right sides of the vehicle 10 for detecting different directions.

[0090] Map data 41 is stored in multimedia device 14 as data provided by a navigation function of multimedia device 14. Haptic feedback device 42 provides tactile feedback to occupants of vehicle 10 by imparting force, vibration, motion, etc., such as vibrating a seat belt.

[0091] As an example, the exterior rearview mirror 43 is provided near the base of the A-pillar in the vehicle cabin, and displays a dynamic image of the rear of the vehicle captured by the rear camera 131. In addition, the exterior rearview mirror 43 may also be provided with a BSM indicator light.

[0092] The electronic rearview mirror 44 is a driving assistance device that includes an electronic rearview mirror display 44A, located on the upper side of the front windshield within the vehicle cabin and approximately in the center of the vehicle's width, an electronic rearview mirror camera 44B that captures images of the vehicle's rear, and an image transmission cable 44C that transmits moving images. The electronic rearview mirror display 44A can be switched from mirror-type to electronic rearview mirror-type display by operating a switch lever. For example, the electronic rearview mirror display 44A displays moving images of the vehicle's rear, captured by the electronic rearview mirror camera 44B, when driving forward or in reverse. This allows rearward visibility without obstructions such as headrests or cargo. Furthermore, the rear seats are not captured to protect occupants' privacy. Furthermore, the electronic rearview mirror display 44A can be linked to the BSM radar 133E, displaying an amber light on the edge of the LCD to notify the user of approaching vehicles from behind.

[0093] The meter buzzer 45 notifies the user with a beep. The headlights 46 support the Adaptive High Beam System (AHS) and use the front camera 130 to determine the brightness of the headlights of the vehicle ahead, streetlights, etc., and control the headlight light distribution. The IR light emitter 47 emits light to assist the various cameras in capturing images. The meter display 48 is located near the meter and provides auxiliary information.

[0094] Figure 7 This is an example of the functional structure of the driving assistance device 12. Figure 7 As shown, the functional structure of the driving assistance device 12 is realized by the CPU 20 executing the control program 30, and includes an acquisition unit 200, a restriction unit 202, a control unit 204, and a group display control unit 206. In addition, the restriction unit 202 performs conditional restriction control on the operation of the group. In addition, the driving assistance functions controlled by the control unit 204 are divided into functional groups (first assistance function, second assistance function, third assistance function) according to the purpose of driving assistance. The first assistance function is a functional group of driving assistance functions related to collision avoidance assistance. The second assistance function is a functional group of driving assistance functions related to driving assistance. The third assistance function is a functional group of driving assistance functions related to notification. In addition, an example of setting the function group set as a group will be exemplified in the second embodiment and subsequent embodiments in which the group method is described in detail.

[0095] The acquisition unit 200 acquires user operations related to a group operated on a setting screen of the multimedia device 14. User operations related to a group include, for example, selecting a group, adding or deleting a driving assistance function to a group, and changing setting values ​​of driving assistance functions within a group. Groups are designated by the operations.

[0096] The restriction unit 202 determines whether a specific condition is met based on user operations related to the group. If the specific condition is met, it performs conditional restriction control. Specific conditions are set for both the prerequisite function and the reverse function. As described below, the conditional restriction control includes suppression control and display control as measures to limit the specific condition from being met due to user operations. During the conditional restriction control, the restriction unit 202 suppresses the specific condition from being met and displays a character string or icon indicating the specific condition.

[0097] After the restriction unit 202 determines that the user has performed an operation on a group, the control unit 204 instructs the user to set the driving assistance functions included in the group specified by the operation, and applies the group settings to the driving assistance functions. As described above, the control unit 204 controls the driving assistance functions included in the group to be set.

[0098] The group display control unit 206 controls the display of the group set by the control unit 204 so that the set contents are reflected on the display of the setting screen of the multimedia device 14. This display control includes, for example, displaying the main functions included in the group, their settings, and corresponding driving scenarios using icons, images, and descriptions. The display control corresponding to the contents of the group will be described in the various embodiments below.

[0099] Specific conditions are explained. A specific condition for a prerequisite function refers to a state in which one driving assistance function exists in a group, even though the operation of one driving assistance function depends on the operation of another driving assistance function, which does not exist in the group. A specific condition for an opposite function refers to a state in which both one driving assistance function and the opposite driving assistance function exist in a group. In this disclosure, "first driving assistance function" and "second driving assistance function" refer to "one driving assistance function" and "the other driving assistance function," respectively.

[0100] The specific conditions of the prerequisite function include the following cases (1) and (2). Case (1) refers to the case where both the driving assistance function of one party and the driving assistance function of the other party exist in the group, and the driving assistance function of the other party is deleted from the group. Case (2) refers to the case where the driving assistance function of one party is added to the group while the driving assistance function of the other party does not exist in the group.

[0101] The suppression control in the conditional restriction control is a control that removes one driving assistance function from the group when the specific conditions in the case of (1) are met. The suppression control in the conditional restriction control is a control that adds the other driving assistance function to the group when the specific conditions in the case of (2) are met. In addition, in the case of (1), the removal of the other driving assistance function is restricted, and in the case of (2), the addition of one driving assistance function can be restricted.

[0102] If the specific conditions of the prerequisite functions described above can be met by a user operation, the restriction unit 202, in conditional restriction control, inhibits the fulfillment of the specific conditions of the prerequisite functions and notifies the user of this through a display on the multimedia device 14. As part of the display control of the conditional restriction control, the restriction unit 202 displays a character string or icon on the group settings screen of the multimedia device 14 indicating that the operation of one driving assistance function requires the operation of another driving assistance function. For example, if ACC, the prerequisite driving assistance function, is off, and an attempt is made to activate functions such as LTA or ADTJA that rely on ACC, LTA, ADTJA, etc. will not operate because ACC is a prerequisite function. In this case, the restriction unit 202 displays the ACC icon and a description as a warning. Examples of descriptions include "LTA requires ACC to operate," "LTA operates only when ACC is operating," "LTA needs to be configured in the same group as ACC," and "LTA cannot operate without ACC. Do you want to continue?" A selection button for adding or removing the aforementioned functions may also be displayed simultaneously for selection. Alternatively, the icon may be highlighted by flashing, oscillating, or by temporarily changing color. Figure 8 This diagram shows an example of how icons flash and oscillate. This allows notification that ACC is required when the user attempts to configure LTA in a group. Other examples of prerequisite functions include the side view lights not functioning when AHB is not enabled. The names and contents of the aforementioned driving assistance functions, indicated by abbreviations, are described later in the "Description of Driving Assistance Functions."

[0103] A specific condition for a reverse function occurs when one driving assistance function exists in a group and another driving assistance function is added to the group. In this case, if the specific condition for the reverse function is met, the suppression control within the conditional restriction control removes the one driving assistance function from the group. Alternatively, the other driving assistance function can be restricted from being added to the group. If the specific condition for the reverse function is met by a user operation, the restriction unit 202 suppresses the specific condition for the reverse function and notifies the user of this through a display on the multimedia device 14. As part of the display control within the conditional restriction control, the restriction unit 202 displays a string or icon on the group settings screen of the multimedia device 14 indicating that one driving assistance function and the other driving assistance function cannot coexist. For example, if the user attempts to activate the ACC in the economy mode of the other driving assistance function while the normal mode is enabled, the function will be reversed. In this case, the restriction unit 202 displays a warning icon and an explanation indicating that the economy mode icon is unavailable. Examples of descriptive text include "cannot be arranged in the same group", "cannot be used at the same time", "cannot operate at the same time", etc.

[0104] Furthermore, as conditional restriction control for restricting addition or deletion of a group, the restriction unit 202 may gray out an operation instruction to disable operation, or disable a driving assistance function from being visible or selected.

[0105] The specific condition data 31 records the specific conditions of the prerequisite functions and the criteria for determining the specific conditions of the opposite functions as described above.

[0106] (Control Flow)

[0107] Figure 9 This flowchart illustrates the flow of the driving assistance process, which is part of the driving assistance method executed by the driving assistance device 12 according to this embodiment. For example, the driving assistance process is executed when a user activates the group settings screen and begins operating. Furthermore, the group settings screen may be activated when group confirmation is required, such as when a different driver enters the vehicle than the previous time.

[0108] In step S100 , the CPU 20 acquires the specific condition data 31 from the ROM 21 .

[0109] In step S102 , the CPU 20 obtains user operations related to the group.

[0110] In step S104, the CPU 20 determines whether the specific condition can be satisfied by the user's operation on the group using the specific condition data 31. If the specific condition can be satisfied, the process proceeds to step S106; if not, the process proceeds to step S116.

[0111] In step S106 , the CPU 20 determines whether the established specific condition is a specific condition of the prerequisite function or a specific condition of the opposite function. If it is a specific condition of the prerequisite function, the process proceeds to step S108 , and if it is a specific condition of the opposite function, the process proceeds to step S112 .

[0112] In step S108 , the CPU 20 suppresses the establishment of a specific condition of the premise function as the suppression control of the conditional restriction control.

[0113] In step S110, as a display control for conditional restriction control, the CPU 20 displays a character string or icon on the group setting screen of the multimedia device 14 indicating that the operation of one driving assistance function requires the operation of the other driving assistance function. Furthermore, the display for conditional restriction control is intended to guide the user to avoid operations that would require the fulfillment of a specific condition and to enable the user to retrieve the display for group operations.

[0114] In step S112 , the CPU 20 suppresses the establishment of a specific condition for the opposite function as control for suppressing the conditional restriction control.

[0115] In step S114 , as display control of the conditional restriction control, the CPU 20 displays a character string or an icon indicating that one driving assistance function and the other driving assistance function cannot coexist on the group setting screen of the multimedia device 14 .

[0116] In step S116 , the CPU 20 instructs the user to set the driving assistance function included in the group specified by the operation, based on the user's operation on the group, and reflects the setting of the group on the driving assistance function.

[0117] In step S118, the CPU 20 determines whether the group setting end operation has been performed. If the end operation has been performed, the process ends. If the end operation has not been performed, the process returns to step S102 and repeats the process.

[0118] As described above, the driving assistance system 1 of the present embodiment can prevent the user from being confused due to the driving assistance function not being activated depending on the conditions.

[0119] In addition to the above-mentioned embodiment, as a conditional restriction control, for example, it is possible to allow the creation of a group under a specific condition, but not to give an instruction to set the group together, or to disable the set function. In addition, in this case, as a control of the display of the conditional restriction control, the display of the group ( Figure 3 The setting area (b1) is partially grayed out so that the user can understand the driving assistance function for which the specific conditions are met and thus understand the function disabling. In addition, the user can also be guided to cancel the setting operation of the group for which the specific conditions are met.

[0120] The following describes the driving assistance functions and the groups.

[0121] (Description of driving assistance functions)

[0122] (1) Radar cruise control (ACC / DRCC: Adaptive Cruise Control / Dynamic Radar Cruise Control). The necessary equipment for this function is the front camera 130 and the front radar 133A. This function is a driving assistance function that uses the front camera 130 and the front radar 133A (monocular camera and millimeter wave radar) to identify the vehicle in front and assist in following the vehicle while maintaining a distance between the vehicles according to the vehicle speed. The application scenario is, for example, when driving on a highway. In addition, as an extended function, there are auxiliary area enlargement and economic operation mode (energy-saving ACC). The auxiliary area enlargement is linked with map data to provide deceleration assistance for landmarks. Landmarks include roundabouts, temporary stops, yields, toll booths, unmarked T-junctions, etc. In addition, deceleration before a curve also uses map data, so it is expected that the accuracy and performance will be improved. If ACC is activated in the economic operation mode, it assists in driving with priority on fuel efficiency, which helps reduce CO2 during driving. It can also alleviate the anxiety of battery depletion that needs to be solved in battery EVs.

[0123] (2) Extended resume time. The necessary equipment for this function is the front camera 130, the front radar 133A, the driver monitoring camera 110 and the multimedia device 14. This function is a driving assistance function that automatically starts the vehicle according to the start of the vehicle in front and performs following control to the set speed only when the system determines that the driver is monitoring the front in scenarios where the vehicle is frequently started and stopped due to congestion. The driver will be notified through the display and buzzer when starting. For the time from the last stop to the next start without driver operation, the existing ACC is within 3 seconds, and this function will extend the start time to within 3 minutes. Here, the obligation to monitor the front while driving lies with the driver. The usage scenario is, for example, when there is congestion on the highway.

[0124] (3) Automatic High Beam (AHB). This function requires a front camera 130. This driver assistance function normally uses the high beams to ensure long-range visibility. However, when approaching an oncoming vehicle, the system automatically switches between high and low beams by detecting the lights of the vehicle ahead. This function is useful, for example, during nighttime driving.

[0125] (4) Adaptive High-beam System (AHS). The necessary equipment for this function is the headlights 46 corresponding to the front camera 130 and the AHS. This function is a driving assistance function that turns on the high beam under normal circumstances to ensure long-distance vision, and determines the brightness of the lights of the vehicle in front, street lights, etc. to control the light distribution of the headlights. In addition, the use of high-precision LED headlights is also considered. Through the evolution of the light source unit, more detailed light distribution control can be achieved, and function expansion / performance improvement can be achieved. In addition, further improvement of visibility and light distribution to the surrounding area can be achieved. The usage scenario is, for example, night driving, and the high beam can be enabled when the engine is started.

[0126] (5) Proactive Driving Assist (PDA). The necessary equipment for this function is the front camera 130 and the front radar 133A. This function is a driving assistance function that assists the driver in driving on ordinary roads and other scenes, and can provide appropriate operational support according to the driving conditions. In addition, it includes auxiliary functions based on deceleration assistance (DA) and steering assistance (SA) described later. Detailed functions included include [1] deceleration assistance (DA) for the vehicle in front, [2] deceleration assistance (DA) for curves, [3] deceleration assistance (DA) for turning left or right at traffic lights, [4] full-time steering assistance (SA) when driving in a lane, etc. The usage scenario is, for example, driving on ordinary roads or highways.

[0127] (6) Deceleration Assist (DA: Deceleration Assist). The necessary equipment for this function is the front camera 130 and the front radar 133A. This function is a driving assistance function that slowly decelerates according to the driver's action of releasing the accelerator when the front vehicle or adjacent vehicle cuts in, so as to avoid the distance between the vehicles being too close. In addition, when it is determined that the speed of the vehicle is too fast relative to the curve in front, it slowly decelerates according to the driver's action of releasing the accelerator. In addition, deceleration based on RSA linkage is also possible. In the related art, the deceleration control objects are vehicles, curves and intersections, but deceleration assistance is also provided for signs recognized by RSA, such as temporary stops. In addition, deceleration assistance during accelerator operation (single pedal linkage) can be handled. In the related art, although deceleration assistance is only provided when the accelerator is fully released, assistance can also be provided from the moment the vehicle starts to decelerate due to releasing the accelerator, thereby expanding the deceleration assistance area. As a result, it is possible to decelerate calmly relative to the object that should be decelerated (front vehicle, curve, intersection, sign). The usage scenario is, for example, when driving on ordinary roads or highways.

[0128] (7) Steering Assist (SA). The necessary equipment for this function is the front camera 130 and the front radar 133A. This function is a driving assistance function that predicts the driver's operation and supports the operation according to the change of the steering reaction force. During straight driving, the reaction force is increased relative to the driver's steering operation to a degree that does not destroy flexibility to prevent accidental operation. At the entrance of a curve, the reaction force is reduced only in the operating direction relative to the driver's steering operation to assist the driver's operation. In a curve, the reaction force near the turning steering angle is increased relative to the driver's steering operation to suppress excessive operation. At the exit of a curve, the reaction force is increased only in the operating direction relative to the driver's steering operation to assist the return operation. In addition, the steering device will not be automatically turned simply due to a change in the reaction force. The usage scenario is, for example, when driving on an ordinary road or a highway.

[0129] (8) Emergency Driving Stop System (EDSS). The necessary equipment for this function is the front camera 130, the front radar 133A, the driver monitoring camera 110, the front radar 133C and the rear radar 133D for shoulder avoidance, the steering sensor 111, and the multimedia device 14. The multimedia device 14 uses the navigation function to perform shoulder avoidance execution judgment when driving on a highway. This function determines whether the driver's state is normal or abnormal, and when it is determined to be abnormal, it reports to the outside of the vehicle while performing parking control in the lane. In addition, the expansion of the EDSS's operating scene is also considered. In the related art, this function is only applied to highways, but it can also be expanded and applied to ordinary roads. In addition, in the related art, EDSS is only activated when a driver abnormality is detected during LTA operation, but EDSS should also be activated when LTA is not operating. The usage scene is, for example, when driving on ordinary roads or highways.

[0130] (9) Front Cross Traffic Alert (FCTA). The necessary equipment for this function is the front camera 130, the front radar 133A, and the front side radar 133C. This function mainly activates the following two functions when the vehicle enters the intersection at a low speed. The first is to use the HUD display to notify the driver of the approach of a cross vehicle. The second is to use the MID display and buzzer to warn the driver to slow down when the system determines that the driver may want to activate the function, regardless of whether the cross vehicle is approaching or not. The usage scenario is, for example, when driving at an intersection.

[0131] (10) Lane Change Assist (LCA). Required equipment for this function is the front camera 130, the front radar 133A, the front side radar 133C, the rear side radar 133D, the steering sensor 111, and the multimedia device 14. It is worth noting that whether the multimedia device 14 is used varies by country. This function starts lane change assistance by the driver operating the turn signal. Furthermore, during the lane change process, steering assistance and surrounding monitoring assistance are implemented, and the turn signal is automatically turned off after the lane change. An example of a usage scenario is when driving on a highway.

[0132] (11) Lane Departure Alert (LDA). The necessary equipment for this function is the front camera 130 and the front radar 133A. This function is a driving assistance function that notifies the driver to perform a lane departure avoidance operation through a display and a buzzer or steering vibration when the system determines that the vehicle may leave the lane. In addition, the lane departure suppression is assisted by applying steering force to the steering device and displaying information. In addition, this function has the extensibility of function expansion and linkage. For example, the function of identifying the ends of three-dimensional objects can be added. In this way, the identification of single structures and the ends of three-dimensional objects (telephone poles, central dividing strips, wall ends) that are likely to cause major accidents can be increased. In addition, control switching can be performed according to the risk of departure. The degree of danger is determined based on the information of the detection object (guardrails, structures such as telephone poles, white lines, road ends) and the driver monitoring camera 110, and the control amount, timing, and cancellation difficulty are switched according to the degree of danger, thereby ensuring safety and reducing annoyance. In addition, the LDA can be changed to change the control amount and control timing to reduce annoyance. By increasing the lateral jerkiness of the LDA, the control timing is postponed and annoyance is reduced. In addition, the function of adding a trailer LDA is also considered. By adding LDA control of the trailer characteristics, it is ensured that in the related technology, while giving priority to OFF performance (avoidance of sway), ON performance (allowable separation amount) is also taken into account. In addition, the addition of a reduced mode is also considered. According to the risk, the work object is narrowed, and the reduced mode with reduced work scenes can be selected to eliminate annoyance. In addition, it is also considered to predict the behavior of pedestrians and the vehicle and to link with the functions of each application. In this way, the driver's intentional lane departure is predicted, and the operation of LDA is canceled / suppressed, thereby reducing unnecessary work / early work. The usage scenario is, for example, when driving on ordinary roads or highways.

[0133] (11B) Obstacle Anticipation Assist (OAA). The necessary equipment for this function is the front camera 130 and the front radar 133A. This function is a driving assistance function that detects pedestrians on the side of the road through the front camera 130 and the front radar 133A while driving on ordinary roads, and implements steering wheel operations and deceleration to avoid pedestrians. This function helps in defensive driving. In addition, it is also possible to perform deceleration assistance for pedestrians crossing the front when passing through a crosswalk, steering and deceleration assistance for pedestrians hidden in a group of stopped vehicles, and steering and deceleration assistance for pedestrians hidden in blind spots such as walls. The usage scenario is, for example, when driving on ordinary roads or highways.

[0134] (12) Lane Tracing Assist (LTA). Required equipment for this function is the front camera 130 and the front radar 133A. This system provides a portion of the steering force required to maintain center control within the same lane during ACC control. This system is used, for example, when driving on a highway.

[0135] (13) Over The Air (OTA). The necessary equipment for this function is the automatic driving ECU 60. This function is a function of updating software through wireless communication based on DCM. It is possible to respond to the market and update / add functions without returning to the dealer. That is, it is possible to update / add functions without returning to the dealer. As an example of adding functions, there is the addition of work objects / work scenes. In addition, the expansion of the scope of response is considered. In the related art, programs that are only targeted at the front camera 130 and part of the control program for advanced driving can also be targeted at other cameras / millimeter wave radars and other sensors, advanced parking, etc. The usage scenario is, for example, when updating software.

[0136] (14) Pre-Collision Safety System (PCS). The necessary equipment for this function is the front camera 130 and the front radar 133A. This function is a driving assistance function that uses the front camera 130 and the front radar 133A (monocular camera and millimeter wave radar) to detect vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists, and two-wheeled motorcycles on the road. When the system determines that the possibility of a collision is high, it notifies the danger using a buzzer and a display. It assists the braking force when the brake is stepped on, and automatically operates the brake when the brake is not stepped on, so that this function helps avoid collisions and reduces collision damage. In addition, when the system determines that there is a high possibility of a head-on collision with an oncoming vehicle, it helps reduce damage by operating the alarm and the brake. In addition, it has the scalability to deal with head-on collision accident scenarios. It can also help avoid collisions with electric scooters, animals, and single structures. The usage scenarios are, for example, when driving on ordinary roads, intersections, or highways.

[0137] (15) Road Sign Assist (RSA). The necessary equipment for this function is the front camera 130 and the multimedia device 14. In this function, road signs such as "maximum speed", "no crossing the line", and "temporary stop" are displayed on the display of the multimedia device 14. In addition, when the system determines that the road signs and traffic lights of "maximum speed", "no entry", and "red light" are not followed, notification is made by flashing the display and a buzzer. Through the above-mentioned display and notification, the neglect of road signs, etc. is reduced, and safe driving is promoted. In addition, the types of corresponding road signs and traffic lights vary from country to country and region to region and must comply with local requirements. In addition, as an anti-reverse driving assist, a function is also considered to identify signs for anti-reverse driving and notify the driver when reverse driving is detected. The usage scenario is, for example, when driving on ordinary roads or highways.

[0138] (16) Traffic Movement Notification (TMN). This function requires a front camera and front radar 133A. This function notifies the driver that the traffic light has switched if the stop signal is lifted but the vehicle continues to stop. Furthermore, if the vehicle continues to stop after the preceding vehicle starts, the driver is notified that the preceding vehicle has started. This function is used, for example, when driving on ordinary roads.

[0139] (17) Speed ​​Limiter (ISA). This function requires a front camera 130. This function suppresses acceleration above the speed set by the driver. The speed limit can also be set based on a speed limit sign recognized by the RSA.

[0140] (18) Advanced Drive with Traffic Jam Assist (ADTJA). The necessary equipment for this function is the front camera 130, the front radar 133A, the driver monitoring camera 110, the front side radar 133C, the rear side radar 133D, and the navigation map of the multimedia device 14. In this function, in the event of congestion, the vehicle distance and steering wheel operation are controlled so that ACC and LTA control can continue. In addition, the vehicle can be restarted without the driver's operation after parking. It is worth noting that the driver is responsible for monitoring the surrounding area. As a prerequisite for the operation of the system, the system needs to determine that the safety margin is high and the driver is in the forward monitoring state. The usage scenario is, for example, when driving on a highway.

[0141] (19) Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA). The necessary equipment for this function is two BSM radars 133E, an instrument buzzer 45, an exterior rearview mirror 43 with a BSM indicator, a rear camera 131, and a multimedia device 14. This function is a driving assistance function that uses the BSM radar 133E to identify vehicles approaching from the left and right rear when backing out of the garage, and notifies the driver of the presence of the vehicle by flashing the indicator lights in the door mirrors and emitting a buzzer alarm. In addition, it is also possible to expand the scope of work (such as the detection of bicycles and bicycles). The usage scenario is, for example, when backing out of parking.

[0142] (20) Rear Camera Detection (RCD). The necessary equipment for this function is a digital rear camera 131 and a multimedia device 14. This function uses the rear camera 131 to detect pedestrians approaching from behind when backing out of a parking space, and uses image display and sound to alert the driver to help confirm the safety of the pedestrians. In addition, the expansion of the working objects (such as squatting pedestrians, people lying down, scooter users, and toy car users) is also considered. The usage scenarios are, for example, when parking and backing out of a parking space.

[0143] (21) Back Monitor (BM). Required equipment for this function is the rear camera 131 and the multimedia device 14. This function assists in reverse parking by displaying an image of the vehicle's rear, captured by the rear camera 131, and a fixed line indicating the vehicle's width on the monitor of the multimedia device 14 during reverse parking. This function is used, for example, when reversing a parking vehicle.

[0144] (22) Back Guide Monitor (BGM). Required equipment for this function is the rear camera 131 and the multimedia device 14. This driving assistance function assists in reverse parking by displaying the image of the vehicle's rear captured by the rear camera 131 and guide lines linked to steering wheel operation. This function is used, for example, when backing up a vehicle while parking.

[0145] (23) Panoramic View Monitor (PVM). The necessary equipment for this function is the front camera 130, the left and right side cameras 132, the rear camera 131, eight sonars 134, the multimedia device 14, and the IR light emitter 47. By displaying the images captured by the four cameras in the front, back, left, and right on the monitor in a bird's-eye view, it assists in driving scenes with many blind spots. In addition, it also uses three-dimensional image representation (indoor and outdoor viewpoints, slide-out pictures, roll-in pictures) to assist in a wider range of driving scenes compared to S-PVM. It is possible to design a free-viewing angle operation interface similar to that of smart devices. As a result, in related systems, it is possible to assist in confirming the surroundings that cannot be taken into account. Usage scenarios include parking and backing out, backing out of the garage, and moving at low speed.

[0146] (24) Side Monitor (SIM). Required equipment for this function is a single side camera 132, a rear camera 131, eight sonars 134, and a multimedia device 14. This function assists low-speed driving by displaying images from the side cameras 132 and rear camera 131 installed on the vehicle. Useful scenarios include parking, backing out of a parking garage, and low-speed driving.

[0147] (25) Multi Terrain Monitor (MTM). Required equipment for this function is a front camera 130, left and right side cameras 132, a rear camera 131, eight sonars 134, and a multimedia device 14. For off-road environments where reaching out of the vehicle cabin may be dangerous, the four cameras mounted on the front, back, left, and right sides of the vehicle are used to help the driver identify blind spots. This function helps improve off-road maneuverability. It can be used, for example, when driving in off-road environments such as forest roads, mogul roads, and rocky roads.

[0148] (26) Parking Support Brake (Object) (PKSB(O): Parking Support Brake (Object)). This function requires eight sonars 134. Ultrasonic sonars are used to detect stationary objects such as walls in the direction of the vehicle's travel. The system detects excessive accelerator application or delayed brake application when a stationary object is detected, and helps mitigate collision damage by providing an alarm, suppressing vehicle driving force, and automatically braking. This function is used in parking, exiting a garage, and moving at low speeds.

[0149] (27) Parking Support Brake (Object+Vechile) (PKSB(O+V): Parking Support Brake (Object+Vechile)). The necessary equipment for this function is the BSM sensor 133E (two on the left and right sides of the rear of the vehicle), the rear camera 131, etc. In addition, it is used together with the functions of (21), (22), and (24). When the vehicle is backing up, the BSM sensor 133E is used to detect vehicles approaching from the left and right directions behind the vehicle. When the possibility of collision with the vehicle is high, the driving force of the vehicle is suppressed, automatic braking, etc. are used to help reduce the collision damage. In addition, RCTA is included in this system. The usage scenario is, for example, when backing out of the parking garage.

[0150] (28) Parking Support Brake (Object+Vehicle+Pedestrian) (PKSB(O+V+P): Parking Support Brake (Object+Vechile+Pedestrian)). The RCD of (21) is included in this system. Devices using RCD. When the vehicle is backing up, the rear camera 131 is used to detect pedestrians behind the vehicle. If there is a high probability of collision with the pedestrian, the vehicle's driving force is suppressed, automatic braking is performed, and other measures are used to help mitigate collision damage. This is used, for example, when backing out of a parking garage.

[0151] (29) Parking collision avoidance assistance (surrounding stationary objects) (all-around PKSB). The necessary equipment for this function is a specified ECU (not shown), sonar 134 (12 (8 front and rear, 4 left and right)). ECUs are, for example, CSRECU (with AP) and PVMECU (front, rear, left and right cameras). When parking, when there is a concern about collision with a stationary object such as a wall, the all-around PKSB works when the sensor detects a stationary object around. This function mitigates the collision and helps reduce collision damage. When a collision is caused by the difference between the inner wheels when moving forward and the outer wheels when moving backward, a stationary object on the side of the vehicle is detected and the system works. In addition, as an additional function, there is a moving object alarm using PVM cameras (front, rear, left and right), and an alarm-based report is made when a moving object such as a pedestrian, two-wheeled vehicle, or vehicle approaches the vehicle. In addition, this function is set by functions and settings related to automatic parking. The usage scenario is, for example, a parking scenario.

[0152] (30) Sudden Acceleration Suppression (SAS). The necessary equipment and functions for this function are the function of (28) and the smart key. After unlocking with the support smart key, when the engine or hybrid system is started, the acceleration suppression function works during sudden acceleration (enhanced support Plus Support mode). Regardless of whether there is an obstacle, if the accelerator is detected to be over-pressed or stepped on incorrectly, the acceleration of the car is suppressed, and the driver is reminded of the alarm buzzer and display. In addition, it is also considered to enable this function as a standard function only when reversing, regardless of whether the specified smart key is present. In addition, it is also considered to suppress acceleration when a parking lot is detected and full speed is accelerated. The usage scenario is, for example, during normal driving.

[0153] (31) Advanced Parking (AP). The necessary equipment for this function is the equipment used in (28), the function of (23) PVM, and side sonar (4). The parking position is detected by ultrasonic sonar, front, back, left, and right cameras. AP is a function that automatically enters the parking position indicated by the driver on the multimedia device 14. In addition, AP also assists in leaving the parking state. In automatic operation, the accelerator, brake, steering device, and gear shift are operated. In addition, a path storage function can be provided. By parking along the path stored by the path storage function, assistance is provided that meets various environments. Reassuring assistance is provided by tracing the same path as the driver. By exploring / detecting the registered path, the system recommends the driver to use it, thereby achieving an increase in the initial use rate and the continuation rate. The usage scenarios are, for example, when parking and when leaving the parking lot.

[0154] (32) Remote Control Parking (RCP). The necessary equipment and functions of this function are the equipment used in (28), side sonar (four), (23) PVM function, and smart antennas (6). Advanced parking (28) can be operated by a smartphone outside the vehicle to automatically enter the parking space and also assist in exiting the parking space. The usage scenarios are, for example, when parking and exiting the parking space.

[0155] (33) Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) / BSM (Long). The necessary equipment for this function is BSM sensors 133E (two) and an exterior rearview mirror 43 with a BSM indicator. The BSM sensor 133E is used to identify vehicles in the rear lateral area, and the lighting / flashing of the door mirror indicator light helps confirm the surrounding safety when changing lanes. In addition, the level of BSM (Long) can be set. In addition, the function of the entanglement alarm is also considered. Bicycles, small power-assisted vehicles, etc. traveling on the side of the vehicle are detected, and an entanglement alarm is issued when turning left or right. The usage scenario is, for example, when changing lanes.

[0156] (34) Safe Exit Assist (SEA). The necessary equipment for this function is BSM sensors 133E (two), exterior mirrors 43 with BSM indicators, and multimedia devices 14 (display). The BSM sensor 133E is used to identify vehicles / bicycles approaching from the rear. The flashing of the door mirror indicator, the buzzer alarm, etc. are used to assist in avoiding collisions and reducing injuries when opening the door / when the occupants get off the vehicle. In addition, in the case of power sliding doors, the opening operation of the power sliding door is interrupted or canceled when the door is attempted to be opened. In addition, the occupants are informed by the buzzer, the flashing of the indicator in the door mirror, the display on the instrument display, and the voice notification. In addition, in the case of electronic locks (e-latch), the door opening operation is canceled when the door is attempted to be opened. In addition, the occupants are informed by the buzzer, the flashing of the indicator in the door mirror, the display on the instrument display, and the voice notification. The usage scenario is, for example, when getting off the vehicle.

[0157] (35) Flashing Hazard Lights (FHL). The necessary equipment for this function is BSM sensors 133E (two) and multimedia device 14 (display). The warning lights flash at high speed to alert the rear vehicle with a high possibility of rear-end collision. In addition, the rear millimeter-wave radar of the blind spot monitoring is used to detect the rear vehicle traveling in the same lane as the vehicle, and the possibility of rear-end collision is judged based on the distance, relative speed, direction, etc. to the rear vehicle. When the possibility of rear-end collision is high, the warning lights flash at high speed for about 2 seconds to alert the rear vehicle. The usage scenarios are, for example, when parking and when driving.

[0158] (36) Secondary Collision Brake (Rear Impacts while Stopped) (SCB(RIS): Secondary Collision Brake (Rear Impacts while Stopped). The necessary equipment for this function is BSM sensor 133E (two), brake sensor 112, and multimedia device 14 (display). When the vehicle is parked, the rear vehicle is detected by the rear millimeter-wave radar of the blind spot monitoring. If the system determines that the possibility of being rear-ended is very high, the brakes of the vehicle are activated, thereby slowing down the vehicle in the event of a subsequent rear-end collision. Compared with the secondary collision brake that activates the brakes after a front collision or a side collision while the vehicle is moving, the rear collision response while stopping uses the rear millimeter-wave radar to respond to the rear collision again and activates the brakes from before the collision. It can achieve more early deceleration. The usage scenario is, for example, when parking.

[0159] (37) Rear Vehicle Approaching Indication (RVAI). The necessary equipment for this function is BSM sensors 133E (two), multimedia device 14 (display), opt.HUD (instrument display), and electronic rearview mirror 44. The rear millimeter-wave radar of the blind spot monitoring is used to detect the vehicle behind the vehicle. When the rear vehicle approaches, the instrument display, color head-up display, and buzzer are used to notify. The driver's line of sight is guided toward the rearview mirror to assist the driver in determining whether to avoid the rear vehicle. In addition, notifications can also be made using the electronic rearview mirror 44. The usage scenario is, for example, when driving on a highway.

[0160] (38) Approaching Vehicle Support (Recording Function, Report Notification Function) (AVS: Approaching Vehicle Support (Recording Function, Report Notification Function)). The necessary equipment and systems for this function are BSM sensors 133E (two), multimedia device 14 (display), opt. Help Network (registered trademark), and driving recorder (omitted in the figure: front and rear). When the rear vehicle is very close, the system will suggest to the driver to connect to the police or Help Network (registered trademark) and convey the coping method. In addition, when the driving recorder (front and rear) is installed, in addition to full-time recording, "event recording and notification" is also implemented. In addition, the system automatically records the situation and saves it to a dedicated recording area to avoid unnecessary overwriting. In addition, consent through voice recognition is also considered. The usage scenario is, for example, when driving on a highway.

[0161] (39) Advanced Drive (AD). The necessary equipment for this function is the front camera 130, the front radar 133A, the front and rear side radars (133C, 133D), the driver monitoring camera 110, the steering sensor 111, the PVM camera (the rear camera 131, the side camera 132), redundant equipment (not shown), and the multimedia device 14. The multimedia device 14 uses high-precision map data and car navigation. The redundant equipment is a redundant power supply, redundant EPS, redundant brakes, redundant YrG sensor, and redundant buzzer. AD is an advanced driving assistance function that performs steering manipulation / acceleration and deceleration control under the supervision of the driver on a dedicated lane (capable of hands-free autonomous driving Lv2). It is expected to reduce the driving burden during long-term / long-distance driving. In addition, by using the lane level of the high-precision map to determine the position of the vehicle, it helps to overtake and change lanes to the destination in conjunction with the car navigation. The usage scenario is, for example, when driving on a dedicated lane. In addition, in some foreign countries such as North America, ordinary trunk roads are also considered.

[0162] (40) Emergency steering assistance (active steering function) (AES: Autonomous Emergency Steering). The necessary equipment for this function is the front camera 130, the front radar 133A, and the EPS (not shown). The EPS can be attached to the steering sensor 111 and the steering angle sensor 122, for example. Through this system, steering is performed while applying slight brakes to help avoid collisions within the lane. This function works when the system determines that there is a high possibility of collision with the working object and there is enough space in the lane for avoidance. In addition, for safety reasons, this function does not work when obstacles such as oncoming vehicles / front vehicles / rear vehicles are detected near the adjacent lane. In addition, this function does not work for objects such as pedestrians that have a lateral speed above a certain level. The usage scenario is, for example, when driving on ordinary roads (speeds at which brake avoidance is difficult, etc.).

[0163] (41) Driver Monitoring System (DMS). This function requires a driver monitoring camera 110. This function uses the driver monitoring camera 110 to detect the position and orientation of the driver's face and the open and closed state of their eyes. The system then determines whether the driver is able to recognize surrounding conditions and perform driving operations. Furthermore, a buzzer sound is used to notify the driver if a report is necessary.

[0164] (42) Trailer Driving Assist (T-ADAS). The necessary equipment for this function is the front camera 130, BSM sensor 133E (two), etc. This function is a general term for the various functions involved in trailer driving assistance. The various functions are T-DRCC, T-PCS, T-LDA, T-BSM, TBG, and T-PVM. T-DRCC is a function that adjusts the acceleration / deceleration when using ACC to be suitable for trailering even if the vehicle weight changes when towing. T-PCS is a function that adjusts the timing of alarm and brake control to be suitable for trailering even if the vehicle weight changes when towing. T-LDA is a function that detects the possibility of lane / road deviation and suppresses deviation by operating the steering device when towing. T-BSM is a function that expands the detection area to detect the vicinity of the rear end of the bumper of the towing vehicle when being towed to reduce the risk of collision when changing lanes. TBG is a function that provides reverse assistance when towing a trailer through steering assistance. T-PVM is a PVM function designed specifically for trailers or trucks.

[0165] (43) Rest suggestion (SWS: Sway warning system). The necessary equipment for this function is the steering sensor 111 and the steering angle sensor 122. In addition, the driver monitoring camera 110 and the multimedia device 14 can be used. This function is a driving assistance function that infers careless driving (such as sudden steering) and fatigue driving (such as long-term periodic shaking) based on the yaw rate, steering angular velocity, etc., and recommends the driver to take a rest when it is determined that they meet the requirements. The rest suggestion is made through a buzzer and a display.

[0166] (44) Clearance sonar (CSR). This function requires sonar 134. Alternatively, multimedia device 14 may be used. This function detects stationary objects and intermittently changes the beeping interval of a buzzer to match the distance to the stationary object, thereby helping the driver visually and auditorily understand the positional relationship and distance to obstacles. Furthermore, this function displays the location of stationary objects in detail.

[0167] (Description of the group)

[0168] (C1) "Safety Settings": This group of settings helps mitigate collision damage. It aims to maximize the efficiency of collision damage mitigation systems by activating and initiating actions earlier, targeting actions, and notifying functions. Essential driver assistance functions include PCS, LDA, and PKSB. Clearance sonar is also used as a detection device.

[0169] (C2) "Driving Assistance Function On": This group's settings enable driving assistance systems to reduce the burden of daily driving and support comfortable driving. Essential driving assistance functions that require modification are LTA and PDA.

[0170] (C3) "Driving Assistance Function / Activate at High Assistance Level": This group's settings build upon (C2) by maximizing the system's assistance and increasing the level of system intervention. In addition to (C2), essential driving assistance functions requiring modification include ACC and PDA. For ACC, the acceleration and PDA assistance levels are set to high values.

[0171] (C4) "Parking Assist On": This group's settings reduce the driver's workload during parking situations, thereby enabling parking assistance-related systems. The essential driver assistance function requiring modification is PKSB. A clearance sonar is also used as a detection device.

[0172] (C5) “Parking assist function / turn on when the alarm is high”: The settings of this group are based on (C4), maximizing the volume of the alarm to make the alarm target easier to notice.

[0173] (C6) "Notification Assist" (Enable Notification Assist related functions): This group of settings is designed to prevent inattention to surroundings such as vehicles, signs, and traffic lights, and also enables systems related to notification assistance for identifying information. The essential driving assistance functions that require changes are RSA and TMN. For TMN, enable notification of the preceding vehicle starting and notification of signal changes.

[0174] (C7) "Notification Assistance / Advance Notification" (Enable notification assistance related functions + advance notification): This group's settings, based on (C6), advance the timing of notifications to make the identified object more noticeable. This setting advances the timing of TMN notifications and notifications.

[0175] (C8) "Advanced Assistance Timing": This group's settings are intended to provide early assistance and notification for various risks, and to advance the timing of assistance provided by related functions. Essential driving assistance functions that require changes are LDA and PCS. For LDA, set the assistance timing to "early," and for PCS, set the warning timing to "early."

[0176] (C9) "Eco-Drive Mode": This group of settings aims to achieve eco-friendly driving by moderating the amount of assistance provided by systems related to acceleration, deceleration, and steering. The essential driver assistance function that requires modification is ACC. In ACC, gentle acceleration is set, and a higher value for eco-drive assistance is set.

[0177] (C10) "System Work Recommendations Off": This group of settings aims to eliminate the annoyance associated with system work recommendations and disable work recommendations for related functions. Essential driver assistance features that require changes include support for approaching vehicles and rest recommendations.

[0178] [Second embodiment]

[0179] Next, a second embodiment will be described. The second embodiment is a method related to driving assistance for a safe setting in a group.

[0180] Regarding the safe driving assistance settings, the grouping methods for driving assistance functions, vision assistance functions, and traffic jam assistance functions have been disclosed. However, the grouping methods for other aspects have not been disclosed, and there is still room for improvement from the perspective of improving user convenience.

[0181] As a group that the control unit 204 can instruct, that is, a plurality of driving assistance functions included in the safety setting, the second embodiment includes a collision damage reduction function group. Figure 2 In the setting screen operation of the group, when the group of safety settings is selected and the settings are reflected, the control unit 204 will indicate the unified settings of each function in the collision damage reduction function group assigned to the safety settings group. Each function in the safety settings is pre-assigned (setting information described later). The driving assistance functions in the safety settings group include at least pre-collision safety (PCS) and lane departure alert (LDA) as a collision damage reduction function group for driving assistance. PCS is a function involved in collision avoidance assistance, and LDA is a function involved in lane departure suppression assistance. In the safety settings of the second embodiment, it is configured to be able to uniformly indicate the collision damage reduction function group used to reduce collisions in driving, so that the user can gain a sense of security and convenience can be improved.

[0182] The collision damage reduction function group can also include functions related to assisting with driving at intersections, such as the forward traffic crossing alert (FCTA). Furthermore, the collision damage reduction function group can include functions related to warning when approaching obstacles, such as the clearance sonar (CSR), and functions related to detecting surrounding stationary objects during parking, such as the parking collision avoidance assist (PKSB). Clearance sonar is a function of the sonar 134.

[0183] In addition, among the driving assistance functions included in the safety setting group, PCS and LDA are fixed in the default settings and cannot be deleted, but this is not limited to this. Users can also delete and customize them through operations.

[0184] (Instructions to the group)

[0185] Here, the method of indicating a group is described, and the same method of indicating a group in subsequent embodiments is also used.

[0186] The instruction to the driving assistance functions included in the group includes an instruction to change the operation start timing of the driving assistance functions included in the group.

[0187] The instruction to the driving assistance functions included in the group includes an instruction to collectively change the operation start timings of two or more driving assistance functions included in the group.

[0188] The instruction to the driving assistance functions included in the group includes an instruction to change the warning sound (volume) to the user of the driving assistance functions included in the group.

[0189] The instruction to the driving assistance functions included in the group includes an instruction to collectively change the warning sounds to the user of two or more driving assistance functions included in the group.

[0190] The instruction to the driving assistance functions included in the group includes an instruction to change the operating intensity of the driving assistance functions included in the group.

[0191] The instruction to the driving assistance functions included in the group includes an instruction to uniformly change the operating intensities of two or more driving assistance functions included in the group.

[0192] Next, an example of setting information of the driving assistance function in the safety setting will be described. Figure 10A as well as Figure 10B This is a diagram showing an example of settings of driving assistance functions included in a group allocated to safety settings corresponding to the second embodiment. Figure 10A as well as Figure 10B The settings are examples of settings for each driving assistance function assigned as a peace of mind setting. The settings can be roughly divided into the above-mentioned collision damage reduction function (first assistance function), driving assistance function (second assistance function), and notification function (third assistance function) according to each assistance purpose. In the allocation of settings, detailed function settings for each driving assistance function are allocated. As a collision damage reduction function, settings for LDA, EDSS, PCS, FCTA, BSM, SEA, CSR, RCTA, PKSB, and SAS are allocated. As a driving assistance function, settings for ACC are allocated. As a notification function, settings for AVS, FHL, DMC, and SWS are allocated. The control overview is an overview of the control of the driving assistance function. The detailed functions are specific functions for implementing the controls described in the control overview. In addition, the detailed functions in the example only show some functions, and functions that are not set are omitted for simplicity of explanation. These settings are made, for example, by pressing the above Figure 2 The button (a3) ​​is set together to provide unified instructions and reflect them to each driving assistance function.

[0193] In addition, in each detailed function, as the default settings of the detailed function corresponding to the control method of each detailed function, examples include on / off, work start timing, warning sound change, work intensity change, etc. An instruction to set the alarm timing switch setting to "early" is an example of an instruction to change the work start timing. An instruction to set the alarm volume switch setting to "maximum" is an example of an instruction to change the warning sound. An instruction to set the vehicle distance switch setting to "longest" and the attention reminder sensitivity switch setting to "high" is an example of an instruction to change the work intensity. In addition, these settings are set as instructions for each detailed function in the multiple functions included in the group, which is equivalent to an instruction to uniformly change the work start timing or work intensity.

[0194] The above-mentioned setting information is stored in the ROM 21 as setting information allocated in advance for each group.

[0195] When a group for the security setting is selected in the setting screen, the group display control unit 206 displays the description and setting information of the security setting function. Figure 2 as well as Figure 5 The display of the security setting is shown in FIG. Figure 10C The following example shows a setting screen where you can change the settings of individual detailed functions. Figure 10C As shown, in the setting change area (s1), the default settings are displayed for each detailed function of the driving assistance function, and the options that can be changed by selection are displayed. In the example, the setting change of the detailed function of the PCS is illustrated. The display of the driving assistance function can be switched by the left and right switch buttons (s2). In addition, the driving assistance function can be switched from the overview display. The user can reflect the changed content in the setting information by selecting a setting from the changeable options. Therefore, in the example where the setting information can be changed from the default setting to the custom setting, it is worth noting that when there are prerequisite functions or opposite functions in the object of the setting change, the operation and setting reflection will be suppressed by the conditional restriction control of the above-mentioned first embodiment.

[0196] Furthermore, when changing settings, a reflection button (s3) can be provided for reflecting the same detailed function settings of other functions. When the reflection button (s3) is pressed, a confirmation screen such as "Set the warning timing of other functions to 'Early'?" is displayed. If the reflection is accepted using the confirmation button, the settings of the other warning sounds are also changed to the same settings. Thus, if two or more driving assistance functions both include changing the warning sound, the warning sound settings of the other driving assistance functions that differ from the set driving assistance function can be reflected. The instruction to change the warning sound is an instruction to uniformly change all warning sounds. The same reflection can also be applied to the operation start timing and operation intensity. Thus, if two or more driving assistance functions both include changing the operation start timing, the operation start timing settings of the other driving assistance functions that differ from the set driving assistance function can be reflected. The instruction to change the operation start timing is an instruction to uniformly change all operation start timings. Furthermore, if two or more driving assistance functions both include changing the operation intensity, the operation intensity settings of the other driving assistance functions that differ from the set driving assistance function can be reflected. The instruction to change the operation intensity is an instruction to uniformly change all operation intensities. This makes it possible to easily change settings related to the same detailed function.

[0197] (Control Flow)

[0198] Next, the control flow of the second embodiment will be described. Figure 10D This flowchart illustrates the flow of driving assistance processing as a driving assistance method according to the second embodiment. For example, when the safety setting (C3) of the aforementioned group is selected on the screen, the driving assistance processing according to the second embodiment is executed. Furthermore, the control regarding specific conditions in the first embodiment is executed as needed, such as when an operation is received.

[0199] In step S200 , the CPU 20 obtains an operation on the group setting screen.

[0200] In step S202, the CPU 20 determines whether the operation is to select a group for security settings. If it is an operation to select a group for security settings, the process proceeds to step S204. If it is not an operation to select a group for security settings, the process returns to step S200 and repeats the process.

[0201] In step S204 , the CPU 20 acquires the setting information of the security setting from the ROM 21 .

[0202] In step S206 , the CPU 20 displays the function description and setting information for the secure setting on the setting screen.

[0203] In step S208, the CPU 20 obtains an operation related to the security setting. Here, the operation related to the security setting is a setting reflection operation or a custom operation. The setting reflection operation is, for example, an operation of pressing the set button in the state where the security setting is selected. The custom operation is, for example, the above-mentioned Figure 3 Operations for changing, adding, and deleting various settings for driving assistance functions.

[0204] In step S210, the CPU 20 determines whether the operation related to the security setting is a setting reflection operation or a custom operation. If it is a setting reflection operation, the process proceeds to step S214. If it is a custom operation, the process proceeds to step S212.

[0205] In step S212 , the CPU 20 reflects the contents set by the customization operation in the setting information of the security setting.

[0206] In step S214 , the CPU 20 uses the setting information of the set safety setting to instruct and reflect the setting to each driving assistance function.

[0207] As described above, according to the second embodiment, it is possible to improve convenience when a function for reducing collision is set as safe driving assistance.

[0208] [Third embodiment]

[0209] Next, a third embodiment will be described. The third embodiment is related to parking assistance with a secure setting in a group.

[0210] The third embodiment is characterized by the function settings of the functions included in the group of safety settings that the control unit 204 can indicate, especially the function settings related to parking assistance. The driving assistance functions included in the group of safety settings of the third embodiment include at least clearance sonar (CSR) and parking collision avoidance assistance (PKSB) as a driving assistance function group for parking assistance. CSR is a function related to an alarm when approaching an obstacle, and PKSB is a function related to detecting surrounding stationary objects when parking. The driving assistance function group in this embodiment is a driving assistance function group for suppressing traffic accidents in low to medium speed areas. In the safety settings of the third embodiment, the driving assistance function group for reducing collisions when parking in parking lots, etc. is uniformly indicated. Therefore, in the parking scene, the driver can get a sense of security and can improve convenience. In addition, the settings can be presented in a way that is easy for the user to understand.

[0211] In addition, the driving assistance function group includes functions related to automatic parking assistance, namely Advanced Parking (AP), assisted automatic parking, and remote parking. In addition, the driving assistance function group also includes functions related to control to suppress sudden acceleration caused by accidental pressing, namely Rapid Acceleration Suppression (SAS), which assists control at the start of driving by suppressing sudden acceleration caused by accidental pressing. In addition, the driving assistance function group also includes functions related to warnings about approaching vehicles, namely Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA). In addition, the driving assistance function group also includes functions related to ensuring safety when exiting the vehicle, namely Safe Exit Assist (SEA), which provides warnings when opening and closing doors and exiting the vehicle. In addition, the driving assistance function group also includes functions related to assistance when driving at intersections, namely Front Cross Traffic Alert (FCTA). In addition, the driving assistance function group also includes functions related to collision avoidance assistance, namely Pre-Collision Safety (PCS), and functions related to assistance to suppress lane departure, namely Lane Departure Alert (LDA).

[0212] Figure 11A This is an example of a setting screen where settings related to parking assistance can be selected. Figure 11A As shown, in the setting screen (2A) with the safety setting selected, a parking assist setting button (s21) for displaying and setting settings related to parking assist is displayed. When the parking assist setting button (s21) is pressed, a function list screen of parking assist is displayed.

[0213] Figure 11B This is an example of a parking assist function list screen. In the parking assist function list screen (s22), the functions related to parking assist are listed as function buttons (s23). In addition, in the function list screen, each function has Figure 3 Similarly, the toggle button (s24) can be used to switch between on and off. By operating the toggle button (s24), the on / off settings of various functions can be set simultaneously. Pressing the button (s23) for each function displays the detailed settings screen for parking assistance for that function. Furthermore, in the second embodiment of the safety setting mode, the safety setting function list screen can also be displayed, allowing settings to be changed.

[0214] Figure 11C This is an example of a setting screen where detailed function settings related to parking assistance can be changed. Figure 11CAs shown, in the setting change area (s1), the default settings for each detailed function of the driving assistance function are displayed, along with options that can be changed by selection. The setting change interface in the setting change area (s1) is similar to that of the second embodiment, but includes a button (s25) for returning to the parking assistance function list screen (s22). In this example, the setting of the detailed PKSB function related to parking assistance is changed. The left and right toggle buttons (s2) can be used to switch the display of the driving assistance functions related to parking assistance. In addition, the driving assistance functions can be switched from the list display. The driver selects a setting from the changeable options to reflect the changes in the setting information. This allows the setting information to be changed from the default setting to a customized setting. In addition, if the setting to be changed includes a prerequisite function or an opposing function, the conditional restriction control described in the first embodiment is used to suppress the operation and setting reflection. As described above, when the safety setting is selected in the setting screen, the driving assistance functions related to parking assistance included in the driving assistance function group can be displayed at a glance, and the detailed functions of the driving assistance functions related to parking assistance can be changed.

[0215] Furthermore, in the third embodiment, similar to the second embodiment, detailed function changes regarding the operation start timing, warning sound, and operation intensity can be reflected in the detailed function settings of other driving assistance functions different from the set driving assistance function. Furthermore, the instruction to change the detailed function is an instruction to change all detailed functions collectively.

[0216] (Control Flow)

[0217] Next, the control flow of the third embodiment will be described. Figure 11D This flowchart illustrates the flow of the driving assistance process as a driving assistance method according to the third embodiment. The driving assistance process according to the third embodiment is derived and executed from the flowchart of the second embodiment. The process of the third embodiment first obtains an operation related to safety settings in step S208 and then proceeds to step S300. Furthermore, the control related to specific conditions described in the first embodiment is executed as needed, such as when the operation is received.

[0218] In step S300, CPU 20 determines whether a parking assist setting operation has been accepted based on the obtained operation related to safety settings. The parking assist setting operation refers to pressing the parking assist setting button (s21). If the parking assist setting operation has been accepted, the process proceeds to step S302. If the parking assist setting operation has not been accepted, the process proceeds to step S210.

[0219] In step S302, the CPU 20 displays a parking assist function list screen (s22). The user operates the parking assist function list screen (s22) and the detailed function setting change area (s1) to perform a custom operation for changing settings related to the parking assist function.

[0220] In step S304 , the CPU 20 obtains a custom operation related to parking assistance.

[0221] In step S306, the CPU 20 reflects the contents of the customized operation settings related to parking assistance in the setting information of the safety setting. After the reflection, the CPU 20 returns to step S208 and obtains the operation related to the safety setting again.

[0222] As described above, according to the third embodiment, it is possible to improve convenience when setting a parking function for safe driving assistance.

[0223] [Fourth embodiment]

[0224] Next, a fourth embodiment will be described. The fourth embodiment is a mode related to nighttime driving assistance with a safety setting in a group.

[0225] The fourth embodiment relates to driving assistance functions belonging to a group for nighttime driving assistance (hereinafter referred to as the "nighttime assistance group"), including one or more driving assistance functions that operate based on detection results from front camera 130. The ability to uniformly indicate functions that operate at night improves user convenience during nighttime driving. Front camera 130 is an example of an "illuminance detection device."

[0226] Front camera 130 outputs illuminance information indicating the detected illuminance in front of vehicle 10 to driving assistance device 12. If, based on the acquired illuminance information, driving assistance device 12 determines that the amount of light received by front camera 130 is less than a predetermined amount, that is, that the area surrounding vehicle 10 is dark, driving assistance function based on the detection result of front camera 130 is activated. In the fourth embodiment, multiple driving assistance functions belonging to the nighttime assistance group may be referred to as "nighttime assistance functions."

[0227] Here, the driving assistance device 12 in the fourth embodiment has the same Figure 7 The functional structure shown.

[0228] In the fourth embodiment, the control unit 204 can collectively instruct the settings of the night-time assistance functions. These functions include, for example, AHB, AHS, and side view lights. AHB is an example of the "first function," AHS is an example of the "second function," and side view lights are an example of the "third function."

[0229] As described above, the AHB is a system that detects vehicle lights from oncoming vehicles as the surrounding conditions of the vehicle 10 using the front camera 130 and automatically switches the high and low beams of the headlights 46 based on the detection results of the front camera 130 .

[0230] As described above, the AHS is a system that detects the illumination of the headlights of the preceding vehicle, streetlights, etc. as the surrounding conditions of the vehicle 10 using the front camera 130 and controls the light distribution of the headlights 46 based on the detection results of the front camera 130 .

[0231] The side view lights are a system that activates auxiliary lights to illuminate the area ahead of the vehicle based on the state of the vehicle 10 when the headlights 46 are on. The auxiliary lights, along with the headlights 46, are built into the left and right headlight units and illuminate the area diagonally ahead of the vehicle 10. The auxiliary lights are an example of "other lights."

[0232] Among the side view lights, either the left or right auxiliary light or both the left and right auxiliary lights are turned on based on the rotation direction of the steering wheel, the position of the turn signal lever, and the gear position as the state of the vehicle 10 .

[0233] For example, in the side view lights, the corresponding auxiliary lights on the left or right are turned on according to the direction of the steering wheel rotation (clockwise or counterclockwise). Specifically, when the steering wheel is turned clockwise, the auxiliary lights built into the right headlight unit of the vehicle 10 are turned on together with the headlight 46.

[0234] For example, in the side view lamp, the auxiliary lamp on either side is turned on according to the position of the turn signal lever (the first position for turning on the left turn signal lamp or the second position for turning on the right turn signal lamp). Specifically, when the turn signal lever is in the first position, the auxiliary lamp built into the left headlamp unit of the vehicle 10 is turned on together with the headlamp 46.

[0235] For example, regarding the side view lights, when the shift position of the vehicle 10 is switched to the R range, two auxiliary lights built into the left and right headlight units are turned on together with the headlights 46 .

[0236] In addition, the night assistance function in the fourth embodiment includes other driving assistance functions in addition to the above-mentioned driving assistance functions. Specifically, the night assistance function also includes a specific function and a prescribed function. The specific function is a function that works based on the recognition image of the front camera 130 that recognizes the front of the vehicle 10. The prescribed function is a function that works based on the detection result of the BSM sensor 133E that detects objects approaching the vehicle 10. The front camera 130 is an example of a "camera" and the BSM sensor 133E is an example of a "radar sensor". In addition, the above-mentioned objects include other vehicles such as passenger cars and two-wheeled vehicles, pedestrians, animals, etc.

[0237] As an example, the fourth embodiment uses PCS and FCTA, which assist the vehicle 10 in avoiding collisions with objects, as specific examples of specific functions, and SEA, which warns occupants of the vehicle 10, as a specific example of a prescribed function. In this case, PCS and FCTA become examples of the "fourth function," and SEA becomes an example of the "fifth function." The aforementioned occupants include the user and fellow passengers.

[0238] Furthermore, the control unit 204's setting instructions for the nighttime assistance function include instructions for setting whether the driving assistance function is to be activated and instructions for changing the timing at which the driving assistance function is to be activated. Hereinafter, in the fourth embodiment, the instruction for setting whether the driving assistance function is to be activated may be referred to as a "setting instruction," and the instruction for changing the timing at which the driving assistance function is to be activated may be referred to as a "changing instruction."

[0239] Here, in the following Figure 12B In the setting screen (2B) shown, the setting instruction for the driving assistance function set to on is an instruction to make the function work. The change instruction is an instruction to advance the timing of the function's operation start compared to the normal situation. On the other hand, in the setting screen (2B), the setting instruction for the driving assistance function set to off is an instruction not to make the function work. The change instruction is an instruction not to change the timing of the function's operation start, that is, to keep the normal situation unchanged. In addition, "advancing the timing of the function's operation start" includes driving operations such as acceleration, braking, and steering based on the driving assistance function being started earlier by the automatic driving ECU 60, and outputting warnings such as output sound and display based on the driving assistance function earlier.

[0240] Figure 12A This is an example of a setting screen where settings related to the night assist function can be selected. Figure 12A As shown, in a setting screen (2A) in which a user has selected a night assist group from a selection area (a1), a night assist setting button (s41) for customizing the individual driving assist function of the night assist function is displayed in a display area (a2). Pressing the night assist setting button (s41) displays a setting screen (2B) in which the individual driving assist function of the night assist function can be customized.

[0241] Figure 12B This is an example of a setting screen that enables customization of the individual driving assistance function of the night assist function. Figure 12B The setting screen (2B) shown displays the state in which the user customizes the individual driving assistance function of the night assist function in the setting area (b1).

[0242] As an example, in the setting area (b1), the operation start timing of AHB, AHS, side view lamps, FCTA and SEA in the individual driving assistance functions of the night assist function is set to be early, and the operation start timing of PCS is not changed. Moreover, it is assumed that the setting button (a3) ​​is pressed in the state shown in the setting area (b1). In this case, the CPU 20 uniformly indicates the change instruction of the night assist function, and reflects it as a setting of the night assist group. The setting of the night assist group is to set the operation start timing of AHB, AHS, side view lamps, FCTA and SEA earlier than the normal situation, and to maintain the setting content such as the normal situation for the operation start timing of PCS. In addition, in Figure 12B Although not shown in the figure, in the setting area (b1) shown, it is of course possible to issue a change instruction for other driving assistance functions in the collective setting of the night assist group based on the user's customized content, or to issue a change instruction and a setting instruction together.

[0243] Next, the control flow of the fourth embodiment will be described. Figure 12C This flowchart illustrates the flow of driving assistance processing as a driving assistance method according to a fourth embodiment. For example, when the nighttime assistance group setting is selected on the screen, the driving assistance processing according to the fourth embodiment is executed. Furthermore, the control related to specific conditions described in the first embodiment can be executed as needed, such as when an operation is received.

[0244] In step S400 , the CPU 20 obtains an operation on the group setting screen.

[0245] In step S402, the CPU 20 determines whether the operation is to select a nighttime assistance group. If it is to select a nighttime assistance group, the process proceeds to step S404. If it is not to select a nighttime assistance group, the process returns to step S400 and repeats the process.

[0246] In step S404 , the CPU 20 obtains the setting information of the nighttime assistance group from the ROM 21 .

[0247] In step S406 , the CPU 20 displays a description of the function of the nighttime assistance group on the setting screen ( 2A).

[0248] In step S408, the CPU 20 determines whether a custom operation has been accepted. A custom operation, for example, is pressing the Night Assist setting button (s41) while the Night Assist group is selected. If the custom operation has been accepted, the process proceeds to step S410. If not, the process proceeds to step S414.

[0249] In step S410, the CPU 20 displays Figure 12B The user operates the setting area (b1) in the setting screen (2B) to perform individual setting operations for the individual driving assistance function of the customized night assistance function.

[0250] In step S412 , the CPU 20 obtains the individual setting operation related to the nighttime assist function.

[0251] In step S414, the CPU 20 determines whether a setting reflection operation has been accepted. For example, a setting reflection operation is pressing the collective setting button (a3) ​​while the nighttime assist group is selected. If the setting reflection operation has been accepted, the process proceeds to step S416. If the setting reflection operation has not been accepted, the process returns to step S410.

[0252] In step S416 , the CPU 20 uses the set nighttime assist group setting information to instruct and reflect the setting to each driving assist function.

[0253] As described above, in the driving assistance device 12 of the fourth embodiment, the CPU 20 can collectively instruct the setting of multiple driving assistance functions, including a driving assistance function that operates based on the detection results of the front camera 130 capable of detecting the illumination in front of the vehicle 10, in a nighttime assistance group. Here, the nighttime assistance group is an example of a group configured to allow the addition or deletion of driving assistance functions for the vehicle 10. Thus, according to the driving assistance device 12, the setting instructions for the nighttime assistance function can be collectively instructed, thereby improving the user's convenience in setting multiple driving assistance functions, including the driving assistance function that operates when the surrounding area of ​​the vehicle 10 is dark.

[0254] Furthermore, in the driving assistance device 12 of the fourth embodiment, the nighttime assistance function includes AHB, AHS, and side view lamps. Thus, the driving assistance device 12 can improve the user's convenience in setting multiple driving assistance functions, including the driving assistance function related to controlling the lamps illuminating the front of the vehicle 10.

[0255] Furthermore, in the driving assistance device 12 of the fourth embodiment, the nighttime assistance function also includes a specific function that operates based on an image recognized by the front camera 130 in front of the vehicle 10. Furthermore, when instructing the CPU 20 to set the nighttime assistance function, it can also instruct a change in the timing at which at least one of the specific driving assistance functions starts operating. Thus, the driving assistance device 12 can change the timing at which the specific function that operates based on the image recognized by the front camera 130 starts operating when the surrounding area of ​​the vehicle 10 is dark.

[0256] Furthermore, in the driving assistance device 12 of the fourth embodiment, the CPU 20 can change the start timing of the PCS and FCTA, which assist the vehicle 10 in avoiding collisions with objects, earlier than usual. Thus, the driving assistance device 12 can start the PCS and FCTA earlier than usual when the surrounding area of ​​the vehicle 10 is dark, thereby reducing the risk of collision between the vehicle 10 and the object.

[0257] Furthermore, in the driving assistance device 12 of the fourth embodiment, the nighttime assistance function also includes a predetermined function that operates based on the detection results of the BSM sensor 133E, which detects objects approaching the vehicle 10. Furthermore, the CPU 20 can, in the setting instruction for the nighttime assistance function, instruct a change in the start timing of at least one driving assistance function included in the predetermined function. Thus, the driving assistance device 12 can change the start timing of the predetermined function that operates based on the detection results of the BSM sensor 133E when the surrounding area of ​​the vehicle 10 is dark.

[0258] Furthermore, in the driving assistance device 12 of the fourth embodiment, the CPU 20 changes the timing of the SEA activation start to warn the occupants of the vehicle 10 earlier than usual. Thus, according to the driving assistance device 12, when the surrounding area of ​​the vehicle 10 is dark, the SEA activation start timing is earlier than usual, allowing the occupants to recognize the warning more quickly.

[0259] In the fourth embodiment, the night assist function includes all functions of AHB, AHS, and side view lights, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The night assist function only needs to include at least one of AHB, AHS, and side view lights.

[0260] While PCS and FCTA are described as examples of the "fourth function" in the fourth embodiment, examples of the "fourth function" are not limited thereto. For example, in addition to PCS and FCTA, the "fourth function" may also include other driving assistance functions such as LDA, OAA, and AES.

[0261] In the fourth embodiment, the specific function is a driving assistance function that operates based on images recognized by the front camera 130, but the specific function is not limited to this. Any specific function can be a driving assistance function that operates based on images recognized by a camera that recognizes the surroundings of the vehicle 10. Therefore, the specific function can be a driving assistance function that operates based on images recognized by the rear camera 131 that recognizes the rear of the vehicle 10. Specifically, the specific function in this case can be RCD and PKSB (O+V+P), etc.

[0262] While SEA is described as an example of the "fifth function" in the fourth embodiment, the present invention is not limited to this. Any "fifth function" may be a driving assistance function that provides a warning to at least one of an occupant and an object. Therefore, the "fifth function" may include not only SEA but also other driving assistance functions such as BSM, FHL, and RVAI.

[0263] In the fourth embodiment, the predetermined function is a driving assistance function that operates based on the detection result of the BSM sensor 133E. Therefore, the driving assistance functions included in the predetermined function are not limited to SEA, but also include other driving assistance functions such as PKSB, SCB, and AVS.

[0264] In the fourth embodiment, the front camera 130 is described as an example of an "illuminance detection device," but examples of illuminance detection devices are not limited thereto. For example, an illuminance sensor mounted on the upper surface of the instrument panel inside the vehicle 10 and detecting the illuminance in front of the vehicle 10 can be used as an example of an "illuminance detection device." In this case, a sensor having a light-receiving element that converts light into an electric current for detection can be used.

[0265] In the fourth embodiment, the night assist function includes one or more driving assistance functions (e.g., AHB, AHS, and side view lights) that operate based on the detection results of an "illuminance detection device" such as the front camera 130. However, this is not limiting, and the driving assistance function may be a function that operates during a specified time period instead of based on the detection results of the "illuminance detection device" such as the front camera 130, or a function that combines both.

[0266] [Fifth embodiment]

[0267] Next, a fifth embodiment will be described. The fifth embodiment is a method related to changing the assistance level in a group.

[0268] In the fifth embodiment, the instructions for the driving assistance functions included in the group include instructions for changing the assistance level of the driving assistance functions. Multiple driving assistance functions can be the subject of the change instruction. This allows for unified changes in the assistance level, improving the convenience for users attempting to change the assistance level.

[0269] The fifth embodiment optimizes the settings related to the assistance level, particularly among the functions that the control unit 204 can instruct. The assistance level is a setting for the detailed functions included in the driving assistance function. Within the assistance level, a hierarchy of settings is appropriately set depending on the type of detailed function to which the assistance level is assigned. For example, the types of assistance levels include the timing of starting the driving assistance function, the warning sound the driving assistance function emits to the user, and the intensity of the driving assistance function. For example, the level setting for the timing of starting the function can be set to "early," "standard," and "late." For example, the level setting for the warning sound can be set to "maximum," "standard," and "minimum." For example, when switching the vehicle-to-vehicle distance, the level setting for the intensity can be set to "longest," "standard," and "shortest." When switching the attention alert sensitivity, the level setting can be set to "high," "standard," and "low." Furthermore, the level setting is not limited to the three-level setting described above, but can also be a more detailed setting with five or ten levels. In addition, in the case of having an ITS (Intelligent Transport Systems) connection function, the type of assistance level can be a setting change of two options, "vehicle-to-vehicle" or "road-to-vehicle", which can perform ITS connection. In addition, the type of warning sound can be selected. In this way, in the present embodiment, it is possible to set it according to the type of detailed function to which each assistance level is assigned. The setting instructions executed by the control unit 204 include assistance level change instructions for multiple assistance level types. In the case of the assistance level change instructions of the above example, the change instructions may include changing the start timing of the driving assistance function, changing the warning sound of the driving assistance function to the user, and changing the working intensity of the driving assistance function, depending on how the detailed functions in the driving assistance function included in the group are used.

[0270] Figure 13A This is an example of a setting screen where settings related to the assist level can be selected. Figure 13A As shown, the setting screen (2A) displays an assist level setting button (s31) for displaying and setting settings related to the assist level. Pressing the assist level setting button (s31) displays an assist level list screen. While the example shows the safety setting group selected, the present invention is not limited to the safety setting group and the same applies to any group selected.

[0271] Figure 13B This is an example of the assistance level list screen. Figure 13BAs shown, in the assistance level overview screen (s32), the types of assistance levels are displayed at a glance, and the level setting button (s33) is displayed. If the level setting button (s33) is pressed, each level of the level setting can be selected, and by selecting the level setting button (s34), the assistance level can be changed at once. In addition, by pressing the separate detail setting button (s35), the screen is moved to the detail screen. The detail screen is a screen where the assistance level of each driving assistance function can be set separately. As described above, the assistance level is included in a plurality of driving assistance functions, and an assistance level overview screen can be displayed. In addition, by uniformly setting the assistance levels included in the change item from this overview screen, it is possible to uniformly indicate the change instructions of the assistance levels of a plurality of driving assistance functions including the item.

[0272] Figure 13C This is an example of a detailed screen that can set each assistance level. In the detailed screen (s36), a list of driving assistance functions including the selected assistance level type is displayed. For each driving assistance function, the assistance level can be changed individually by selecting the level setting button (s34). The display of the assistance level type can be switched by the left and right switch buttons (s2). In addition, if the function description button (s37) is selected, the description of the function pops up. As described above, a screen that can set the assistance level of each of a plurality of driving assistance functions, that is, a detailed screen, can be displayed. In addition, the level setting of the assistance level of each of a plurality of driving assistance functions can be set individually from the detailed screen. In addition, for example, a return button can be provided to have a function of resetting the assistance level changed by the change instruction to the default assistance level predetermined in the group.

[0273] (Control Flow)

[0274] Next, the control flow of the fifth embodiment will be described. Figure 13D This flowchart illustrates the flow of driving assistance processing as part of the driving assistance method according to the fifth embodiment. The basic flow of driving assistance processing in the fifth embodiment is the same as that in the third embodiment, but is not limited to the safety-setting groups and is applicable to all groups selectable from the selection area (a1). Therefore, processing other than that related to the assistance level will be described again.

[0275] In step S500 , the CPU 20 obtains an operation on the group setting screen.

[0276] In step S502, the CPU 20 determines whether the operation is to select a predetermined setting group. If it is an operation to select a predetermined group, the process proceeds to step S504. If it is not an operation to select a predetermined group, the process returns to step S500 and repeats the process.

[0277] In step S504 , the CPU 20 acquires the setting information of the selected group from the ROM 21 .

[0278] In step S506 , the CPU 20 displays the function description and setting information of the group on the setting screen.

[0279] In step S508 , the CPU 20 obtains an operation related to group settings.

[0280] In step S510, the CPU 20 determines whether the acquired operation related to group setting has been accepted for setting the assistance level. The setting operation for the assistance level is the pressing of the assistance level setting button (s31). If the setting operation for the assistance level has been accepted, the process proceeds to step S512. If the setting operation for the assistance level has not been accepted, the process proceeds to step S518.

[0281] In step S512, the CPU 20 displays the assistance level list screen (s32). The user operates the assistance level list screen (s32) and the detailed screen (s36) that can be transitioned from the list screen to perform custom operations such as changing settings related to the assistance level.

[0282] In step S514 , the CPU 20 obtains the customized operation related to the assistance level.

[0283] In step S516, the CPU 20 reflects the contents of the customized operation settings related to the assistance level in the setting information of the selected group. After the settings are reflected, the process returns to step S508 and obtains the operations related to the selected group again.

[0284] In step S518, CPU 20 determines whether the setting-related operation is a setting reflection operation or a custom operation. A setting reflection operation is, for example, pressing the collective setting button (a3) ​​while a specified group is selected. If it is a setting reflection operation, the process proceeds to step S522. If it is a custom operation, the process proceeds to step S520.

[0285] In step S520 , the CPU 20 reflects the contents set by the customization operation on the setting information of the selected group.

[0286] In step S522 , the CPU 20 instructs and reflects the settings on each driving assistance function using the setting information of the set group.

[0287] As described above, according to the fifth embodiment, it is possible to improve the convenience when setting detailed functions related to the assistance level of the driving assistance function.

[0288] [Sixth embodiment]

[0289] Next, a sixth embodiment will be described. The sixth embodiment is related to a notification function in a group.

[0290] The sixth embodiment is a method for setting functions related to user notifications. This includes groups of notification-related functions (hereinafter referred to as notification functions), representative examples of which are (C6) "Notification Assistance" and (C7) "Notification Assistance / Advance" in the aforementioned groups. Hereinafter, these groups will be referred to as notification assistance groups. By enabling unified indication of multiple notification-related assistance functions, it is more convenient for users to set notification functions.

[0291] In the sixth embodiment, a monitoring notification function and an action suggestion function are included as notification function groups among the multiple driving assistance functions included in the notification assistance group that can be instructed by the control unit 204. The monitoring notification function is the name that summarizes functions that monitor the surrounding environment and provide notifications based on the monitoring results. The monitoring notification function includes, for example, a notification function based on road monitoring (RSA), a notification function based on monitoring surrounding vehicles, a notification function based on driver status monitoring (DMS), and a notification function based on monitoring traffic lights or road signs. The notification function based on monitoring surrounding vehicles includes a notification function based on monitoring the preceding vehicle (TMN), a notification function based on monitoring the following vehicle (RAVI and AVS), and a notification function based on monitoring vehicles traveling in the surrounding area (ITS). The notification function based on monitoring traffic lights or road signs includes a notification function based on signal monitoring (TMN) and a notification function based on monitoring road signs (RSA). In this embodiment, as long as two or more notification functions can be set together, three or four notification functions may also be set together. The action suggestion function is the name that summarizes functions that provide driving assistance function action suggestions to the user. The work suggestion function includes AVS, which is a function related to notification by the user, and SWS, which is a function related to rest suggestion to the user.

[0292] Figure 14A This is an example of setting the monitoring notification function for a group assigned to the notification assistant. Figure 10AThe same is true for the peace of mind settings. As notification assistance groups, there are the above-mentioned (C6) "Notification Assistance" and (C7) "Notification Assistance / Advance" groups, which illustrate the functions of each group and the settings of detailed functions. In the notification assistance group, a driving assistance function that is classified as a notification function (the third assistance function) as the assistance purpose of the function is assigned. The assigned driving assistance function corresponds to the monitoring notification function and the work suggestion function. As the monitoring notification function, RSA, RVAI, FHL, TMN, ITS, and DMC are set. As the work suggestion function, AVS and SWS are set. The default settings of each detailed function of RSA are illustrated. In the default settings of the detailed functions of RSA, road sign notification control, red light notification, switching of notification methods, and speed limit change notification are set to enabled (on). Notification disables speed offset switching (expressed as "-" in the figure). In "Notification Assist / Advance," as a detailed function not set in "Notification Assist," the notification timing, preceding vehicle start notification timing, signal light switch notification timing, and notification timing are all set to "Early." Furthermore, the attention alert sensitivity setting is set to "High."

[0293] For example, in the above Figure 2 When a notification assistance group is selected during operation on the group setting screen and the setting is reflected, control unit 204 instructs to collectively set each function (detailed function) included in the driving assistance function assigned to the notification assistance group. The driving assistance function assigned to the notification assistance group is an example of a function related to notifications disclosed herein.

[0294] When a notification assistance group is selected in the setting screen, the group display control unit 206 displays a description of the notification assistance function and setting information.

[0295] In the sixth embodiment, as in the second embodiment, the detailed functions of the operation start timing and the warning sound can be reflected in the detailed function settings of other driving assistance functions different from the set driving assistance function. In addition, the instruction to change the detailed function is an instruction to change all detailed functions at once.

[0296] Figure 14BThis is an example of a setting screen that can change the detailed function settings of individual notification assistance functions. In the setting change area (s41), the default settings for each detailed function of the driving assistance function are displayed, and options that can be changed by selection are displayed. In the example, the setting change of the detailed function of RSA is illustrated. The display of the driving assistance function can be switched using the left and right switch buttons (s42). In addition, the driving assistance function can be switched from the overview display. The user can reflect the changes in the setting information by selecting a setting from the changeable options. In this way, the setting information can be changed from the default setting to the customized setting.

[0297] Figure 14C This is an example of a screen for notifying a work suggestion. The control unit 204 makes a work suggestion when the work suggestion conditions are met, and displays the suggestion as a reminder through the screen notification of the multimedia device 14 (s43). Figure 14C In the example shown in FIG2 , an example is displayed superimposed on the setting screen (2A), indicating a situation where an AVS-based notification is recommended. The reminder for the work suggestion function has the highest priority in the on-screen display and is superimposed on the displayed content. The user presses the suggestion execution button (s44), thereby executing the driving assistance function corresponding to the work suggestion. Pressing the cancel button (s45) suppresses the execution of AVS. The driving assistance function corresponding to the work suggestion can be AVS, and an example of a notification navigation function is possible. If it is SWS, a rest is recommended to the user. Work suggestion conditions are pre-stored in ROM 21. For example, if the work suggestion condition is a rest suggestion, careless driving or fatigue driving is inferred based on the yaw rate, steering angular velocity, etc., and if the driving is determined to be such, a rest is recommended to the user. Careless driving is, for example, sudden steering maneuvers. Alternatively, if there is long-term periodic shaking, fatigue driving is inferred. Furthermore, if the work suggestion is a notification, a notification is recommended to the user if a vehicle is detected approaching a certain distance from the vehicle 10 being driven and has traveled at that distance for a certain period of time. Furthermore, navigation leading to a rest point may be exemplified.

[0298] (Control Flow)

[0299] Next, the control flow of the sixth embodiment will be described. Figure 14D This is a flowchart illustrating the flow of the driving assistance process as a driving assistance method according to the sixth embodiment. Figure 14E This is a flowchart for explaining the process of driving assistance processing involved in the work suggestion of the sixth embodiment. For example, when the above-mentioned notification assistance group is selected on the screen, the execution Figure 14D The driving assistance process of the sixth embodiment is described in detail. Otherwise, the basic processing flow is the same as that of the second embodiment.

[0300] In step S600 , the CPU 20 obtains an operation on the group setting screen.

[0301] In step S602, the CPU 20 determines whether the operation is to select a group for notification assistance. If so, the process proceeds to step S604. If not, the process returns to step S600 and repeats the process.

[0302] In step S604 , the CPU 20 acquires notification assistance setting information from the ROM 21 .

[0303] In step S606 , the CPU 20 displays the function description and setting information of the notification aid on the setting screen.

[0304] In step S608, the CPU 20 obtains an operation related to the notification assistance. Here, the operation related to the notification assistance is a setting reflection operation or a custom operation. The setting reflection operation is, for example, an operation of pressing a setting button in a state where the notification assistance is selected. The custom operation is, for example, the above-mentioned Figure 3 Change, add, and delete settings for the driver assistance functions.

[0305] In step S610, the CPU 20 determines whether the operation related to notification assistance is a setting reflection operation or a custom operation. If it is a setting reflection operation, the process proceeds to step S614. If it is a custom operation, the process proceeds to step S612.

[0306] In step S612 , the CPU 20 reflects the contents set by the custom operation in the setting information of the notification assistance.

[0307] In step S614 , the CPU 20 uses the set notification assistance setting information to instruct and reflect the setting to each driving assistance function.

[0308] Next, the work suggestion will be described. For example, the vehicle 10 is regularly executed while driving. Figure 14E The following processing procedures may be executed separately for each driving assistance function involved in the work suggestion.

[0309] In step S620, the CPU 20 determines whether the operation suggestion condition is satisfied. If the operation suggestion condition is satisfied, the process proceeds to step S622. If the operation suggestion condition is not satisfied, the process repeats this step after a certain time has passed.

[0310] In step S622 , the CPU 20 displays the recommended content of the driving assistance function related to the operation recommendation on the screen of the multimedia device 14 .

[0311] In step S624, the CPU 20 determines whether an operation of executing or canceling the work suggestion has been accepted. If an operation of executing has been accepted, the process proceeds to step S626, and if a operation of canceling has been accepted, the process ends.

[0312] In step S626 , the CPU 20 executes the driving assistance function related to the operation suggestion.

[0313] As described above, according to the sixth embodiment, it is possible to improve the convenience when setting detailed functions related to notification of the driving assistance function.

[0314] [Seventh embodiment]

[0315] Next, the seventh embodiment will be described. The seventh embodiment is a method related to the fuel-saving driving mode (C7), which is a driving mode in the group that suppresses fuel consumption. In the fuel-saving driving mode, priority is given to the setting of suppressing fuel consumption. In addition, the fuel consumption in this embodiment is used in a broad sense to include the fuel consumption of internal combustion engines such as gasoline engines and the electricity cost of electric vehicles. In addition, it includes not only electric vehicles but also the electricity cost of hybrid vehicles and plug-in hybrid vehicles. In addition, the group of energy-saving driving modes is an example of a specific group disclosed in the present invention.

[0316] The seventh embodiment optimizes the configuration of multiple driving assistance functions within a group of energy-saving driving modes that can be designated by the control unit 204. The configuration of multiple driving assistance functions within the group designating energy-saving driving modes can be unified, thereby improving user convenience when selecting energy-saving driving modes.

[0317] Figure 15A This is an example of the settings for the driving assistance function group assigned to the energy-saving driving mode. Figure 10AThe same is true for the peace of mind setting. The group of energy-saving driving mode is allocated with a driving assistance function that is classified as a driving assistance function (second assistance function) as the auxiliary purpose of the function. Among the driving assistance functions of the group of energy-saving driving mode, ACC, a function that assists in following the vehicle to ensure the inter-vehicle distance from the vehicle in front, and PDA, a function that assists in operations corresponding to the driving situation, are used. In addition, the detailed functions related to fuel consumption are set among the detailed functions of ACC and PDA, and other detailed functions are disabled (the "-" expression in the figure). ACC and PDA are set to the detailed functions of the setting object in a manner that suppresses fuel consumption. For ACC, the switching of the inter-vehicle distance is set to "longest". The switching of acceleration and the speed suppression during curve driving are set to "weak". The switching of the energy-saving driving assistance amount is set to "strong". In addition, for PDA, the adjustment of the assistance amount is set to "weak". In this way, the setting of the working intensity of the functions related to acceleration and deceleration is set to be lower than the standard working intensity. The above setting is an example of the function related to acceleration and deceleration disclosed in the present invention. In this manner, control unit 204 sets the operating intensity of the acceleration / deceleration functions for each driving assistance function included in the energy-saving driving mode group to a value lower than the standard. Furthermore, control unit 204 changes the acceleration / deceleration settings for the ACC and PDA. Specifically, the operating intensity of the acceleration / deceleration functions for the ACC and PDA is set to a value lower than the standard.

[0318] When the energy-saving driving mode is selected, the control unit 204 changes the settings of each driving assistance function included in the energy-saving driving mode group in accordance with the reduction of the vehicle's fuel consumption. Figure 2 When the energy-saving driving mode group is selected and the setting is reflected in the operation of the setting screen (2A), the control unit 204 issues an instruction to collectively set the driving assistance functions assigned to the energy-saving driving mode group. In addition, in the setting of the energy-saving driving mode, the setting instruction includes an instruction to change the functions classified as the collision damage reduction function (first assistance function) and the notification function (third assistance function) to be disabled in order to disable them. In addition, when the energy-saving driving mode group is selected in the setting screen (2A) and the custom button (a4) is pressed, a detailed screen showing the function details of the energy-saving driving mode is displayed.

[0319] Figure 15BThis is an example of a detailed screen that displays the functional details of the energy-saving driving mode. In the detailed screen (s51) of the energy-saving driving mode, the default settings of the detailed functions are determined in a manner that suppresses fuel consumption according to the purpose of the energy-saving driving mode. Therefore, when the energy-saving driving mode is selected, the group display control unit 206 performs control (inhibition control) to suppress setting changes of detailed functions that will cause increased fuel consumption. In the inhibition control, for example, setting changes of detailed functions that will hinder the energy-saving driving mode are prohibited. In addition, even in the case of not prohibiting, the range of changes that can be made is limited. In the case where setting changes are prohibited by inhibition control, for example, the setting button of the detailed function is displayed in a non-selectable state (s52). In addition, a description indicating that setting changes cannot be made is displayed by the group display control unit 206 (s53).

[0320] In addition, the control unit 204 can determine the conditions for recommending the energy-saving driving mode and recommend switching to the energy-saving driving mode. For example, the driving record of the vehicle 10 is collected, and when driving with high fuel consumption is detected, the energy-saving driving mode is recommended. In addition, the fuel consumption upper limit can be registered through user input, and when the fuel consumption upper limit is reached, switching to the energy-saving driving mode is recommended. The process of work recommendation is the same as that of the fifth embodiment. In this way, a function of notifying the work recommendation of the energy-saving driving mode can be included. In addition, the control unit 204 can predict the fuel consumption reduction effect when the energy-saving driving mode is selected based on the driving record, and display it on the setting screen. This can help the user determine whether to set the energy-saving driving mode.

[0321] (Control Flow)

[0322] Next, the control flow of the seventh embodiment will be described. Figure 15C This is a flowchart illustrating the flow of a driving assistance process as a driving assistance method according to the seventh embodiment.

[0323] In step S700 , the CPU 20 obtains an operation on the group setting screen.

[0324] In step S702, CPU 20 determines whether the operation is an operation for selecting the group of energy-saving driving mode. If it is an operation for selecting the group of energy-saving driving mode, the process moves to step S704. If it is not an operation for selecting the group of energy-saving driving mode, the process returns to step S700 and repeats the process.

[0325] In step S704 , the CPU 20 acquires setting information of the energy-saving travel mode from the ROM 21 .

[0326] In step S706 , the CPU 20 displays the function description and setting information of the energy-saving travel mode on the setting screen, and performs control to inhibit setting changes.

[0327] In step S708, the CPU 20 determines whether a setting reflection operation has been obtained. If a setting reflection operation has been obtained, the process proceeds to step S710. If a setting reflection operation has not been obtained, the process is deemed to be canceled and the process ends.

[0328] In step S710 , the CPU 20 uses the setting information of the set energy-saving travel mode to instruct and reflect the setting to each driving assistance function.

[0329] As described above, according to the seventh embodiment, it is possible to improve convenience when setting the driving assistance function so as to suppress fuel consumption.

[0330] [Eighth embodiment]

[0331] Next, the eighth embodiment will be described. The eighth embodiment relates to a snowy terrain assistance group. The snowy terrain assistance group includes multiple driving assistance functions. When at least one of the weather outside the vehicle and the road conditions meet a predetermined adverse condition, the multiple driving assistance functions are capable of changing the assistance level associated with at least one of the driving assistance function's operating intensity and the timing of its activation.

[0332] The above-mentioned weather refers to the state of the atmosphere, including weather, temperature, humidity, and wind speed. Furthermore, the above-mentioned road surface condition refers to conditions such as dry, wet, partially wet, snow-covered, packed snow, frozen, snow-cleared, thawed, sandy, the presence or absence of oil, muddy, and rutted. As an example, the eighth embodiment defines a situation where severe conditions are satisfied as at least one of snow outside the vehicle and snow on the road surface surrounding the vehicle 10. The CPU 20 of the driving assistance device 12 determines whether severe conditions are satisfied based on weather information indicating the weather surrounding the vehicle 10 and information from various devices included in the sensor unit 52. Weather information and information from various devices are transmitted from an external server such as the cloud server 16.

[0333] Hereinafter, a plurality of driving assistance functions belonging to the snowy path assist group will be described. In the eighth embodiment, the plurality of driving assistance functions belonging to the snowy path assist group may be referred to as "snowy path assist functions."

[0334] Here, the driving assistance device 12 of the eighth embodiment has the same Figure 7 In the eighth embodiment, the control unit 204 can collectively instruct the setting of the snow assist function.

[0335] As an example, the snowy slope assistance function configuration includes a driving assistance function that allows for changing the assistance level, a communication function that enables communication between the vehicle 10 and other vehicles and roadside devices installed on the road, a driving assistance function that utilizes the sonar 134, and a driving assistance function that utilizes the recognition images captured by the front camera 130. Vehicle 10 implements the communication function using communication interfaces such as the wireless communication I / F 23 and the communication unit 24 included in the driving assistance device 12. The sonar 134 is an example of a "clearance sonar," and the front camera 130 is an example of a "camera." Hereinafter, in the eighth embodiment, the driving assistance function that allows for changing the assistance level may be referred to as the "first function group," the driving assistance function that utilizes the sonar 134 may be referred to as the "second function group," and the driving assistance function that utilizes the recognition images captured by the front camera 130 may be referred to as the "third function group." Examples of the first function group include LDA and PCS. Examples of the second function group include PKSB(O) and all-around PKSB. Examples of the third function group include ACC and PDA.

[0336] Here, the communication function implements an inter-vehicle communication system, allowing vehicle 10 to communicate with other vehicles and directly transmit and receive information regarding each vehicle's status and surrounding conditions. For example, when vehicle 10 is following another vehicle using ACC, the inter-vehicle communication system controls the acceleration and deceleration of vehicle 10 based on the acceleration and deceleration information of the other vehicle obtained through inter-vehicle communication. This reduces fluctuations in the inter-vehicle distance between vehicle 10 and the other vehicle, as well as in vehicle 10's speed, enabling smooth following travel.

[0337] Furthermore, the communication function implements a roadside-to-vehicle communication system, which allows the vehicle 10 to communicate with roadside devices and directly transmit and receive information related to oncoming vehicles, pedestrians, and traffic lights. Roadside devices are computers installed on the road, such as at intersections and traffic lights. The roadside-to-vehicle communication system can, for example, prompt the user to pay attention based on information received from the roadside devices via roadside-to-vehicle communication. Specifically, when turning right at an intersection and a pedestrian is present in the user's blind spot, the instrument panel buzzer 45 emits a buzzing sound based on pedestrian information transmitted from the roadside device via roadside-to-vehicle communication, thereby alerting the user to the presence of the pedestrian.

[0338] Furthermore, the control unit 204's setting instructions for the snow assist function include instructions for changing the assistance level of the driving assistance function or the notification level (described later) and instructions for setting whether the driving assistance function is enabled. Hereinafter, in the eighth embodiment, instructions for changing the assistance level or notification level of the driving assistance function are referred to as "change instructions," and instructions for setting whether the driving assistance function is enabled are referred to as "setting instructions."

[0339] In the instruction to set the snowy road assist function, the control unit 204 performs at least one of reducing the intensity of the operation and advancing the timing of the operation start as a change in the assistance level. Reducing the intensity of the operation refers to reducing the assist force for driving operations such as acceleration, braking, and steering (e.g., assist force for steering force, assist force for accelerator pedaling force, and assist force for brake pedaling force) performed by the driving assist functions included in the first function group. When the vehicle 10 is traveling on a snowy road that meets the severe conditions described in the eighth embodiment, there is a risk that the vehicle 10 will become uncontrollable if emergency braking is performed. Therefore, by reducing the assist force for brake pedaling force, the situation of vehicle 10 becoming uncontrollable can be prevented. Advancing the timing of the operation start advances the time when the automatic driving ECU 60 begins driving operations based on the driving assist function. For example, when the vehicle 10 is traveling on a snowy road, the braking distance is longer than when traveling on dry roads. Therefore, advancing the time when the automatic driving ECU 60 begins applying the brakes allows for highly accurate deceleration to the target position.

[0340] In addition, the communication function can change the notification level related to at least one of the frequency and timing of notifications to the vehicle 10. Moreover, in the setting instruction for the snowy road assist function, the control unit 204 performs at least one of increasing the frequency of notifications and advancing the timing of notifications as a change in the notification level. Increasing the frequency of notifications means increasing the number of times information is sent per unit time from other vehicles and roadside devices to the vehicle 10. For example, when the vehicle 10 is traveling on a snowy road, the user's field of vision is reduced. Therefore, by increasing the number of times information is sent per unit time, the amount of information that can be obtained (supplemented) from the external device is increased, which can contribute to the user's safety. Advancing the timing of notifications means starting to send prescribed information earlier when other vehicles and roadside devices send the prescribed information to the vehicle 10. For example, when the vehicle 10 is traveling on a snowy road, the user's field of vision is reduced. Therefore, by starting to send the prescribed information earlier, the user can understand the content of the prescribed information as soon as possible.

[0341] Figure 16A This is an example of a setting screen where settings related to the snow assist function can be selected. Figure 16A As shown, in the setting screen (2A) in which the user has selected the snow lane assist group from the selection area (a1), a snow lane assist setting button (s81) for performing a customized driving assist function of the snow lane assist function is displayed in the display area (a2). When the snow lane assist setting button (s81) is pressed, a setting screen (2B) for performing a customized driving assist function of the snow lane assist function is displayed.

[0342] Figure 16BThis is an example of a setting screen that enables customization of the individual driving assistance functions of the snow assist function. Figure 16B The setting screen (2B) shown shows a state where the user has customized the individual driving assistance function of the snow assist function in the setting area (b1).

[0343] For example, in the setting area (b1), as snowy slope assistance functions, LDA and PCS are displayed as driving assistance functions included in the first function group, communication functions, PKSB (O) is displayed as a driving assistance function included in the second function group, and ACC is displayed as a driving assistance function included in the third function group. For the multiple driving assistance functions displayed in the setting area (b1), when the user selects one of the multiple options in the pull-down menu, the setting content is displayed in the setting box (b2), setting box (b3), setting box (b4), setting box (b5), and setting box (b6).

[0344] The drop-down menus corresponding to the LDA and PCS in the snow assist function offer four options: "Assistance Level 1," "Assistance Level 2," "Assistance Level 3," and "Assistance Level 4." "Assistance Level 1" does not change the assistance level, maintaining it at its normal level. "Assistance Level 2" reduces the intensity of the assistance level. "Assistance Level 3" advances the timing of the assistance level. "Assistance Level 4" both reduces the intensity of the assistance level and advances the timing of the assistance level. As an example, the setting box (b2) corresponding to LDA displays "Assistance Level 4" and reduces the intensity of the LDA and advances its timing. This means, for example, that when the road surface surrounding the vehicle 10 is covered with snow, the LDA's timing of initiation is advanced, and the steering assist provided by the LDA is reduced. Furthermore, the setting box (b3) corresponding to PCS displays "Assistance Level 3" and advances the timing of the PCS's initiation. As a result, for example, when the road surface around the vehicle 10 is snowy, the timing to start the operation of the PCS is advanced.

[0345] The drop-down menu corresponding to the communication function in the snow track assist function is provided with four options: "Notification Level 1", "Notification Level 2", "Notification Level 3" and "Notification Level 4". "Notification Level 1" is an option for not changing the notification level, that is, maintaining the notification level as normal. "Notification Level 2" is an option for increasing the notification frequency as a change in the notification level. "Notification Level 3" is an option for advancing the timing of notification as a change in the notification level. "Notification Level 4" is an option for increasing the notification frequency and advancing the timing of notification as a change in the notification level. As an example, a case is shown where the setting box (b4) corresponding to the communication function is displayed as "Notification Level 2" and the notification frequency of the communication function is increased. As a result, for example, when the state of the road surface around the vehicle 10 is snowy, the number of information transmissions per unit time from other vehicles and roadside devices to the vehicle 10 increases.

[0346] The drop-down menus corresponding to the PKSB (O) and ACC functions in the snow assist feature have two options: "On" and "Off." "On" enables the driver assist feature. "Off" disables the driver assist feature. As an example, the setting box (b5) corresponding to PKSB (O) shows "On" and PKSB (O) is in operation. Furthermore, the setting box (b6) corresponding to ACC shows "Off" and ACC is not in operation.

[0347] Furthermore, it is assumed that the all-in-one setting button (a3) ​​is pressed in the state shown in the above-mentioned setting area (b1). In this case, the CPU 20 uniformly indicates the change indication and setting indication of the snow track assist function, and reflects them as all-in-one setting of the snow track assist group. The all-in-one setting of the snow track assist group is the weakening of the working intensity of the LDA and the advancement of the working start timing (assistance level 4), the advancement of the working start timing of the PCS (assistance level 3), the increase in the notification frequency of the communication function (notification level 2), the operation of PKSB (O), and the non-operation of ACC. In addition, in the 8th embodiment, as an example, in the drop-down menu corresponding to the communication function, there is no "off" option like the drop-down menu corresponding to PKSB (O) and ACC. Therefore, in the 8th embodiment, when Figure 16B When the collective setting button (a3) ​​is pressed in the setting screen (2B) shown, the communication function is set to always operate even when severe conditions are met.

[0348] Next, the control flow of the eighth embodiment will be described. Figure 16CThis flowchart illustrates the driving assistance processing flow of the driving assistance method according to the eighth embodiment. For example, when the snowy terrain assistance group setting is selected on the screen, the driving assistance processing according to the eighth embodiment is executed. Furthermore, control related to the specific conditions of the first embodiment described above is appropriately executed as needed, such as when an operation is received.

[0349] In step S800 , the CPU 20 obtains an operation on the group setting screen.

[0350] In step S802, the CPU 20 determines whether the operation is to select the snow path assistance group. If it is, the process proceeds to step S804. If it is not, the process returns to step S800 and repeats the process.

[0351] In step S804 , the CPU 20 obtains the setting information of the snow assist group from the ROM 21 .

[0352] In step S806 , the CPU 20 displays a description of the functions of the snow assist group on the setting screen ( 2A).

[0353] In step S808, CPU 20 determines whether a custom operation has been accepted. A custom operation, for example, is an operation such as pressing the slope assist setting button (s81) while the slope assist group is selected. If a custom operation has been accepted, the process proceeds to step S810. If not, the process proceeds to step S814.

[0354] In step S810, the CPU 20 displays Figure 16B The user operates the setting area (b1) in the setting screen (2B) to perform a separate setting operation of the separate driving assistance function of the custom snow path assistance function.

[0355] In step S812 , the CPU 20 obtains the individual setting operation related to the snow assist function.

[0356] In step S814, CPU 20 determines whether a setting reflection operation has been accepted. A setting reflection operation, for example, is pressing the collective setting button (a3) ​​while the snow assist group is selected. If the setting reflection operation has been accepted, the process proceeds to step S816. If the setting reflection operation has not been accepted, the process returns to step S810.

[0357] In step S816 , the CPU 20 uses the setting information of the set snow assist group to instruct and reflect the setting to each driving assist function.

[0358] As described above, in the driving assistance device 12 of the eighth embodiment, the CPU 20 can collectively instruct the settings of multiple driving assistance functions (snow assistance functions) in a snowy road assist group. The snowy road assist group is an example of a group that can add or delete driving assistance functions for the vehicle 10. When at least one of the weather outside the vehicle or the road conditions meets a predetermined adverse condition, the multiple driving assistance functions can change their assistance levels. Thus, the driving assistance device 12 can collectively instruct the settings of the snowy road assist function, thereby improving user convenience in configuring the multiple driving assistance functions that can change their assistance levels when adverse conditions are met.

[0359] Furthermore, in the driving assistance device 12 of the eighth embodiment, when instructing the setting of the snowy road assist function, the CPU 20 executes at least one of weakening the driving assistance function's operating intensity and advancing the activation timing as a change in the assistance level. This driving assistance device 12 can thus improve user safety when the driving assistance function operates under adverse conditions. For example, if the road surface surrounding the vehicle 10 is covered with snow, the driving assistance device 12 advances the activation timing of the PCS. Consequently, the driving assistance device 12 can assist in collision avoidance based on the braking distance on snowy roads.

[0360] Furthermore, in the driving assistance device 12 of the eighth embodiment, the snowy lane assist function also includes a communication function that enables communication between other vehicles and roadside devices and the vehicle 10. Furthermore, as a function of the control unit 204, the CPU 20 can instruct the activation of the communication function during the snowy lane assist function setting instruction. Thus, the driving assistance device 12 can ensure user safety based on information obtained from other vehicles and roadside devices under adverse conditions.

[0361] Furthermore, in the driving assistance device 12 of the eighth embodiment, the CPU 20 can execute at least one of increasing the notification frequency and advancing the timing of notifications as a change in the notification level in the setting instruction for the snow assist function. Thus, the driving assistance device 12 can improve user safety under adverse conditions by executing at least one of increasing the notification frequency and advancing the timing of notifications under adverse conditions.

[0362] Furthermore, in the driving assistance device 12 of the eighth embodiment, as a function of the control unit 204, the CPU 20 can, when instructing the setting of the snowy lane assist function, instruct the disabling of the driving assistance functions (second function group) within the snowy lane assist function that utilize the sonar 134. Thus, according to this driving assistance device 12, the driving assistance functions included in the second function group are not activated under adverse conditions, thereby suppressing the activation of the driving assistance functions due to erroneous detection by the sonar 134.

[0363] Furthermore, in the driving assistance device 12 of the eighth embodiment, as a function of the control unit 204, the CPU 20 can, when instructing the setting of the snow assist function, instruct the disabling of the driving assistance function (the third function group) that functions using the recognition image of the front camera 130. Thus, according to this driving assistance device 12, the driving assistance functions included in the third function group are not activated under adverse conditions, thereby preventing the driving assistance functions from being activated based on unclear recognition images from the front camera 130.

[0364] In the eighth embodiment, the severe condition is satisfied when at least one of the weather outside the vehicle is snowy and the road surface surrounding the vehicle 10 is covered with snow. However, the severe condition is not limited to this. When the severe condition is satisfied, for example, when the weather outside the vehicle is rainy or when the road surface is frozen, the setting can be appropriately made.

[0365] Furthermore, in the eighth embodiment, the CPU 20 can both reduce the intensity of the work and advance the timing of the work start as a change in the assistance level. However, the present invention is not limited thereto and can also be configured to only perform one of the two. Specifically, the CPU 20 can only reduce the intensity of the work or only advance the timing of the work start as a change in the assistance level.

[0366] Furthermore, in the eighth embodiment, the communication function enables communication between the vehicle 10 and both other vehicles and roadside devices. However, the present invention is not limited thereto and may also enable communication with only one of the two. Specifically, the communication function may enable communication only between other vehicles and the vehicle 10 or only between the roadside device and the vehicle 10.

[0367] In the eighth embodiment, the CPU 20 can change the notification level by increasing the notification frequency and advancing the notification timing. However, the CPU 20 is not limited thereto and can also change only one of the two. Specifically, the CPU 20 can change the notification level by increasing the notification frequency or advancing the notification timing.

[0368] In the eighth embodiment, LDA and PCS are exemplified as driving assistance functions capable of changing the assistance level, but the driving assistance functions are not limited thereto. For example, the driving assistance functions may include other driving assistance functions such as OAA, AES, and ADTJA in addition to LDA and PCS.

[0369] In the eighth embodiment, the driving assistance function using the sonar 134 is described using the PKSB (O) and the all-around PKSB as examples. However, the driving assistance function is not limited to these examples. For example, in addition to the PKSB (O) and the all-around PKSB, the driving assistance function may also include other driving assistance functions such as PVM, SIM, and MTM.

[0370] In the eighth embodiment, the image recognition driving assistance function using the front camera 130 is described using ACC and PDA as examples. However, the driving assistance function is not limited to these examples. For example, in addition to ACC and PDA, the driving assistance function may also include other driving assistance functions such as LCA and LTA.

[0371] Furthermore, in the eighth embodiment, when instructing the setting of the snow assist function, the CPU 20 can instruct the disabling of the driving assistance function that utilizes images from the front camera 130. However, this is not limiting; the driving assistance function may be any driving assistance function that utilizes images from cameras that recognize the periphery of the vehicle 10. Therefore, the driving assistance function may be one that operates based on images from the rear camera 131 that recognizes the area behind the vehicle 10. Specifically, the driving assistance function may be RCD, RCTA, or the like.

[0372] In addition, in the eighth embodiment, the CPU 20 Figure 16B In the setting screen (2B) shown, it is possible to instruct to disable at least one of the plurality of driving assistance functions included in the second function group and the plurality of driving assistance functions included in the third function group.

[0373] [Ninth embodiment]

[0374] Next, a ninth embodiment will be described. The ninth embodiment relates to a sports mode in which a plurality of grouped driving assistance functions are collectively disabled.

[0375] In the ninth embodiment, the plurality of driving assistance functions that can be disabled together are all driving assistance functions including at least one of pre-collision safety (PCS) and secondary collision brakes (SCB). In the sports mode of the ninth embodiment, the user can uniformly instruct to disable a plurality of driving assistance functions including driving assistance functions required for street driving at a specific location. The specific location includes, for example, a circuit track, a driving school, private land with restricted access, or a location preset by the user. For example, when driving in a racing car on a circuit track, there are cases where the driver does not want the driving assistance function to intervene in his driving operation or to implement a speed limit through a speed limiter. In contrast, in the sports mode of the present embodiment, when the location information of the vehicle is a specific location, the user can disable a plurality of driving assistance functions at once, thereby improving the convenience of the user attempting to disable the driving assistance function.

[0376] The acquisition unit 200 of this embodiment acquires the current position information from the position information of the vehicle. Specifically, the acquisition unit 200 acquires the current position information of the vehicle by using the GPS and map data 41 possessed by the multimedia device 14. The current position information acquired by the acquisition unit 200 is, for example, information indicating that the vehicle is in a place where the speed limit can be lifted, that is, a roundabout. In addition, the current position information acquired by the acquisition unit 200 is not limited to a roundabout, but may also be a driving school, private land with restricted access, or a location preset by the user. In addition, the acquisition unit 200 can use the GPS possessed by the mobile terminal 15. In this case, the acquisition unit 200 acquires the position information from the mobile terminal 15 via the wireless communication I / F 23.

[0377] The restriction unit 202 of this embodiment can disable multiple driving assistance functions at once based on the current position information obtained by the acquisition unit 200. When multiple driving assistance functions can be disabled at once, the restriction unit 202 notifies the driver of a suggestion for changing the settings of the driving assistance functions through the display of the multimedia device 14 (see Figure 17B ) In addition, the plurality of driving assistance functions that the restriction unit 202 can disable at a time may be some or all of the above-mentioned driving assistance functions.

[0378] Figure 17A 1 is a diagram showing an example of a setting screen for the driving assistance function of the ninth embodiment when the driving assistance function is set in a group. Figure 2 In addition, other structures are different from Figure 2 The same, so the detailed description is omitted.

[0379] exist Figure 17AIn the example shown in FIG. 1 , if the sports mode description is displayed in the display area (a2), the setting button (a3) ​​is pressed, and the driving assistance functions are collectively instructed to disable the respective settings of all driving assistance functions, and the sports mode setting is reflected. In addition, if the current position of the vehicle is not a roundabout, the setting button (a3) ​​is grayed out (not shown). If the setting button (a3) ​​is grayed out, the sports mode setting is not reflected even if the setting button (a3) ​​is pressed. In addition, when the setting button (a3) ​​is pressed, the sports mode setting is reflected and the speed limit is lifted.

[0380] Figure 17B This is a diagram showing an example of a suggestion screen for notifying a suggestion for setting the driving assistance function of the ninth embodiment in a group. When it is detected that the vehicle enters a roundabout, the suggestion area (i1) of this embodiment is displayed on the multimedia device 14. In addition, the suggestion area (i1) can be expanded by switching the display of the setting area (b1), or it can be displayed in an overlapping manner. In the illustrated screen, a suggestion for setting a sports mode, a positive button (i2) indicating a positive suggestion, and a negative button (i3) indicating a negative suggestion are displayed in the suggestion area (i1). Here, when the positive button (i2) is pressed, the same processing as when the set button (a3) ​​is pressed when the sports mode is displayed in the display area (a2) is performed. In addition, when the negative button (i3) is pressed, the setting of the driving assistance function is not changed.

[0381] (Control Flow)

[0382] Figure 17C This flowchart illustrates the flow of a driving assistance process as part of a driving assistance method executed by the driving assistance device 12 according to the ninth embodiment. The driving assistance process of this embodiment is executed, for example, while the driver is driving the vehicle. Alternatively, the process may be executed after confirming that the vehicle has stopped, such as when the vehicle enters a roundabout and parks.

[0383] In step S900 , the CPU 20 obtains vehicle position information from the GPS included in the multimedia device 14 .

[0384] In step S901, the CPU 20 determines whether the location indicated by the location information is a roundabout. Specifically, the CPU 20 uses the location information acquired in step S900 and the map data 41 to make this determination. If the CPU 20 determines that the location indicated by the location information is a roundabout (step S901: Yes), the process proceeds to step S902. On the other hand, if the CPU 20 determines that the location indicated by the location information is not a roundabout (step S901: No), the driving assistance process ends.

[0385] In step S902 , the CPU 20 suggests to the driver to turn off all driving assistance functions at once.

[0386] In step S903, the CPU 20 determines whether a change instruction has been issued. Specifically, the CPU 20 makes this determination based on the instruction suggested by the driver in step S902. If the CPU 20 determines that a change instruction has been issued (step S903: Yes), the process proceeds to step S904. On the other hand, if the CPU 20 determines that no change instruction has been issued (step S903: No), the driving assistance process ends.

[0387] In step S904, the CPU 20 changes the settings of the driving assistance functions. Specifically, the CPU 20 disables all driving assistance functions at once. Then, the CPU 20 ends the driving assistance process.

[0388] When the vehicle's location information indicates a roundabout, the driving assistance device 12 according to the ninth embodiment can simultaneously disable all driving assistance functions. Therefore, the driving assistance device 12 of this embodiment eliminates the need to individually disable multiple driving assistance functions in specific locations such as roundabouts, which would interfere with the driver's driving operations. Furthermore, the driving assistance device 12 of this embodiment can simultaneously disable all driving assistance functions, allowing the driver to drive the vehicle without being affected by the driving assistance functions. Furthermore, the driving assistance device 12 of this embodiment can suppress the activation of driving assistance functions in locations such as roundabouts where there are no speed limits.

[0389] When the vehicle enters a roundabout, the driving assistance device 12 according to the ninth embodiment advises the driver to disable all driving assistance functions. Therefore, the driving assistance device 12 according to this embodiment can notify the driver that the vehicle has entered a location where two or more driving assistance functions can be disabled.

[0390] In the driving assistance device 12 according to the ninth embodiment, the driving assistance functions that can be disabled include at least one of the PCS and the SCB. Therefore, the driving assistance device 12 according to this embodiment can disable driving assistance functions that are useful when the vehicle is traveling on a street.

[0391] The driving assistance device 12 according to the ninth embodiment disables all driving assistance functions when the sport mode is set. However, this is not limiting. The driving assistance device 12 may retain some of the aforementioned driving assistance functions and disable them altogether. Therefore, the driving assistance device 12 according to this embodiment allows the driver to drive the vehicle using only the minimum number of driving assistance functions.

[0392] [Tenth embodiment]

[0393] Next, a tenth embodiment will be described. The tenth embodiment relates to a support-off mode in which a plurality of grouped driving assistance functions are collectively disabled.

[0394] In the tenth embodiment, the grouped multiple driving assistance functions that can be collectively disabled are all driving assistance functions, including at least one of pre-collision safety (PCS) and secondary collision braking (SCB). In the support-off mode of the tenth embodiment, if the driver does not require multiple driving assistance functions, the user can collectively instruct to disable multiple driving assistance functions, including those required for street driving. Therefore, in support-off mode, if a user, for example, with advanced driving skills, desires to disable driving assistance functions, as can be determined based on driver information, user convenience can be improved.

[0395] The acquisition unit 200 of this embodiment acquires information related to the driver. Specifically, the acquisition unit 200 acquires the driver's status, that is, the driver's steering operation status, from the driver monitor, i.e., the driver monitoring camera 110. The driver's steering operation status acquired by the acquisition unit 200 may include, for example, whether the driver feels uncomfortable with the steering support provided by the driver assistance function, or whether the driver utilizes the hands-free function. The acquisition unit 200 can acquire the driver's proficiency, i.e., the driver's license information (such as the first type of driving license, the second type of driving license, or a racing license) by photographing the driver's license certificate with the driver monitoring camera 110.

[0396] Furthermore, the acquisition unit 200 acquires driver information using the digital key used to unlock the vehicle. For example, the acquisition unit 200 acquires the driver's driving preferences, i.e., the setting history of driving assistance functions, or the driver's license information, which are stored in association with the digital key and stored in the cloud server 16. Furthermore, the driver-related information acquired by the acquisition unit 200 may be the driver's driving history acquired from various sensors included in the sensor units 50, 51, and 52.

[0397] The restriction unit 202 of this embodiment can disable a plurality of driving assistance functions at once based on the information related to the driver acquired by the acquisition unit 200. When a plurality of driving assistance functions can be disabled at once, the restriction unit 202 notifies the driver of a suggestion for changing the settings of the driving assistance functions through the display of the multimedia device 14 (see Figure 18B ) In addition, the plurality of driving assistance functions that the restriction unit 202 can disable collectively include a part or all of the above-mentioned driving assistance functions.

[0398] Figure 18A This is a diagram showing an example of a setting screen for the driving assistance function of the tenth embodiment when the driving assistance function is set in a group. Figure 2 In addition, other structures are different from Figure 2 Likewise, detailed description is therefore omitted.

[0399] exist Figure 18A In the example of FIG, in the display area (a2), the on / off switching is achieved by the first setting button (a21) and the second setting button (a22), which switch the "manual driving mode" and "passenger transport mode" that can be selected based on the driver information to on or off. Here, the "manual driving mode" is a mode in which both the PCS and the SCB are disabled. The "manual driving mode" can be selected when it is determined that the driver prefers driving without multiple driving assistance functions (manual driving). In addition, the "passenger transport mode" is a mode in which all driving assistance functions are disabled. The "passenger transport mode" can be selected when the driver has passenger transport qualifications.

[0400] Furthermore, the description of supporting the off mode is displayed in the display area (a2). If the all-in-one setting button (a3) ​​is pressed while the first setting button (a21) is on, the driving assistance function is uniformly instructed to disable the various settings of the multiple driving assistance functions that are set to be disabled in this mode. That is, the all-in-one setting of supporting the off mode is reflected. In addition, the same applies when the all-in-one setting button (a3) ​​is pressed while the second setting button (a22) is on. In addition, when both the first setting button (a21) and the second setting button are on, the all-in-one setting button (a3) ​​may be grayed out, and even if the all-in-one setting button (a3) ​​is pressed, the all-in-one setting of supporting the off mode is not reflected. In addition, "manual driving mode" and "passenger mode" are examples of a group of multiple driving assistance functions that can be disabled together.

[0401] In addition, Figure 18A In the example, the second setting button (a22) is grayed out. For example, when the driver does not have passenger transport qualifications, the second setting button (a22) is grayed out. When the second setting button (a22) is grayed out, the second setting button (a22) cannot be turned on. In addition, when it is determined that the driver does not prefer manual driving, the first setting button (a21) is grayed out, and the first setting button (a21) cannot be turned on. In addition, when both the first setting button (a21) and the second setting button (a22) are grayed out, the setting button (a3) ​​can be grayed out, and even if the setting button (a3) ​​is pressed, the setting button (a3) ​​that supports the closed mode is not reflected.

[0402] Figure 18BThis is a diagram showing an example of a suggestion screen for notifying a suggestion for setting the driving assistance function of the tenth embodiment in a group. When it is determined that the driver has the passenger transport qualification, the suggestion area (j1) of this embodiment is displayed on the multimedia device 14. In addition, the suggestion area (j1) can be expanded by switching the display of the setting area (b1), or it can be displayed in an overlapping manner. In the illustrated screen, a suggestion for setting the passenger transport mode in the support off mode, a positive button (j2) indicating a positive suggestion, and a negative button (j3) indicating a negative suggestion are displayed in the suggestion area (j1). Here, when the positive button (j2) is pressed, the support off mode is displayed in the display area (a2), and the same processing is performed as when the set button (a3) ​​is pressed when the passenger transport mode is turned on. In addition, when the negative button (j3) is pressed, the setting of the driving assistance function is not changed.

[0403] (Control Flow)

[0404] Figure 18C This is a flowchart illustrating the flow of a driving assistance process, which is a driving assistance method executed by the driving assistance device 12 according to the tenth embodiment. The driving assistance process of this embodiment is executed, for example, while the driver is driving the vehicle. Alternatively, when the vehicle is parked, the process may be executed after confirming that the vehicle is parked. Furthermore, in step S1000, described later, if driver information indicating that the driver desires support of driving assistance functions is obtained, the driving assistance process of this embodiment may be terminated, or multiple driving assistance functions may be forcibly enabled.

[0405] In step S1000, CPU 20 determines whether the driver's license information has been obtained from the digital key. If CPU 20 determines that the driver's license information has been obtained (step S1000: Yes), the process proceeds to step S1001. On the other hand, if CPU 20 determines that the driver's license information has not been obtained (step S1000: No), the process proceeds to step S1003.

[0406] In step S1001, the CPU 20 determines whether the driver has passenger transport qualifications. If the CPU 20 determines that the driver has (step S1001: Yes), the process proceeds to step S1002. On the other hand, if the CPU 20 determines that the driver does not have (step S1001: No), the process proceeds to step S1003.

[0407] In step S1002 , the CPU 20 advises the driver to turn off all driving assistance functions at once, and then proceeds to step S1006 .

[0408] In step S1003, the CPU 20 determines whether the driver's steering operation status has been obtained from the driver monitoring camera 110. If the CPU 20 determines that the steering operation status has been obtained (step S1003: Yes), the process proceeds to step S1004. On the other hand, if the CPU 20 determines that the driver's steering operation status has not been obtained (step S1004: No), the driving assistance process ends.

[0409] In step S1004, the CPU 20 determines whether the driver prefers manual driving. Specifically, the CPU 20 determines whether the driver prefers manual driving based on the driver's steering operation pattern obtained in step S1003. If the CPU 20 determines that the driver prefers manual driving (step S1004: Yes), the process proceeds to step S1005. On the other hand, if the CPU 20 determines that the driver does not prefer manual driving (step S1004: No), the driving assistance process ends.

[0410] In step S1005 , the CPU 20 advises the driver to turn off both the PCS and the SCB.

[0411] In step S1006, CPU 20 determines whether a change instruction has been issued. Specifically, CPU 20 makes this determination based on the driver's suggestion in step S1002 or step S1005. If CPU 20 determines that a change instruction has been issued (step S1006: Yes), the process proceeds to step S1007. On the other hand, if CPU 20 determines that no change instruction has been issued (step S1006: No), the process ends the driving assistance process.

[0412] In step S1007, the CPU 20 changes the settings of the driving assistance function. Specifically, the CPU 20 disables the driving assistance function recommended in step S1002 or step S1005. Then, the CPU 20 ends the driving assistance process.

[0413] The driving assistance device according to the tenth embodiment can disable multiple driving assistance functions at once based on the driver's steering operation pattern obtained from the driver monitoring camera 110 or the driver's license information stored in association with the digital key. Therefore, according to the driving assistance device of this embodiment, it is possible to save the user the trouble of individually disabling multiple driving assistance functions that are useless to the driver. In addition, according to the driving assistance device of this embodiment, it is possible to disable multiple driving assistance functions at once based on the driver's driving preferences or proficiency that can be identified from the image. Moreover, according to the driving assistance device of this embodiment, it is possible to disable multiple driving assistance functions at once based on the driver's driving preferences or proficiency that can be identified from previously stored information.

[0414] The driving assistance device according to the tenth embodiment recommends that the driver disable multiple driving assistance functions at once based on the driver's steering operation or the driver's license information. Therefore, the driving assistance device according to this embodiment can prompt the driver to disable multiple unnecessary driving assistance functions at once if the driver meets specified conditions.

[0415] In the driving assistance device according to the tenth embodiment, the driving assistance functions that can be disabled include at least one of the PCS and the SCB. Therefore, according to the driving assistance device of this embodiment, it is possible to disable driving assistance functions that are useful when the vehicle is traveling on a street.

[0416] The driving assistance device according to the tenth embodiment can disable all driving assistance functions when the driver has a passenger transport qualification. Therefore, according to the driving assistance device of this embodiment, a driver with high driving proficiency can drive the vehicle without being affected by the driving assistance functions.

[0417] [11th embodiment]

[0418] Next, the eleventh embodiment will be described. As described in the above embodiments, the vehicle 10 can individually switch the activation or deactivation of multiple driving assistance functions through a single setting. In this case, if the driver forgets the previously configured driving assistance function settings, there is a risk of confusion when the designated driving assistance function does not activate while the vehicle 10 is driving. Therefore, the vehicle 10 according to the eleventh embodiment is equipped with a notification function that notifies the driver of the current settings of the driving assistance functions set in the vehicle 10 before the vehicle 10 starts driving.

[0419] The driving assistance device 12 of the eleventh embodiment has the same Figure 7 The functional structure shown.

[0420] In the 11th embodiment, the group display control unit 206 reports the current setting content of the driving assistance function set in the vehicle 10 before the vehicle 10 travels to the driver. The group display control unit 206 is an example of a "reporting unit". Here, the above-mentioned "before the vehicle 10 travels" refers to before the vehicle 10 parked in the specified parking space starts to move forward or backward. In the 11th embodiment, before the gear position of the vehicle 10 is switched to the R gear or the D gear, the group display control unit 206 displays the current setting content on the multimedia device 14. In detail, after the doors of the vehicle 10 are unlocked and the specified system for displaying to the multimedia device 14 is started (for example: IG-on), the group display control unit 206 immediately displays the current setting content on the multimedia device 14.

[0421] In the eleventh embodiment, the control unit 204 acquires setting information indicating the driving assistance function settings set in the vehicle 10 from the ROM 21 when the doors of the vehicle 10 are unlocked. The control unit 204 then instructs and reflects the settings to each driving assistance function using the acquired setting information.

[0422] In the eleventh embodiment, the ROM 21 is provided with a setting area and a comparison area. The setting area stores setting information indicating the settings of the driving assistance function set for the vehicle 10, while the comparison area stores setting information indicating the settings of the driving assistance function during past driving, which is compared with the current settings indicated by the setting information stored in the setting area. Past driving is an example of a "predetermined past time." When the vehicle 10 stops driving, the control unit 204 writes the setting information stored in the setting area to the comparison area, thereby updating the storage contents of the comparison area. Furthermore, when the vehicle 10 stops driving, the control unit 204 writes the setting information indicating the settings of the driving assistance function set during the current driving period to the setting area, thereby updating the storage contents of the setting area.

[0423] Hereinafter, a display example and a control flow of the multimedia device 14 according to the eleventh embodiment will be described in the order of the first mode, the second mode, and the third mode.

[0424] (First method)

[0425] Figure 19A This is a first example of a confirmation screen (s110) that displays the current setting contents of the driving assistance function. Figure 19A The confirmation screen (s110) shown is provided with a first area (s111) for displaying the current setting contents and a second area (s112) for displaying the differences between the setting contents during past driving and the current setting contents.

[0426] exist Figure 19AThe first area (s111) shows that ACC is on, ERT is off, AHB is on, and AHS is on as the current settings. In addition, the second area (s112) shows that SEA, which was on during previous driving, is off in the current settings as the above-mentioned difference.

[0427] Here, a return button (s113) is displayed in the second area (s112). This return button (s113) is used to return the settings of the driving assistance functions set in the vehicle 10 to the settings during the previous driving. When the return button (s113) is pressed, each driving assistance function is instructed to return to the settings during the previous driving, and the display content of the first area (s111) is changed to the content showing the settings during the previous driving.

[0428] Next, the control flow of the first embodiment will be described. Figure 19B This is a first flowchart illustrating a driving assistance process flow as a driving assistance method executed by a driving assistance device according to an eleventh embodiment. For example, the driving assistance process according to the eleventh embodiment is executed based on unlocking of the doors of the vehicle 10 .

[0429] In step S1100 , CPU 20 acquires setting information from each of the setting area and the comparison area of ​​ROM 21 .

[0430] In step S1101 , the CPU 20 uses the acquired setting information of the setting area to instruct and reflect the setting to each driving assistance function.

[0431] In step S1102 , the CPU 20 displays the setting contents indicated by the setting information of the setting area on the multimedia device 14 as current setting contents.

[0432] In step S1103, the CPU 20 determines whether the two pieces of setting information acquired in step S1100 have the same content. If they have the same content, the process ends. If they do not have the same content, the process proceeds to step S1104.

[0433] In step S1104 , the CPU 20 displays the differences between the setting contents during the past driving and the current setting contents on the multimedia device 14 .

[0434] In step S1105, the CPU 20 determines whether a predetermined operation has been accepted for the vehicle 10. The predetermined operation is, for example, the operation of pressing the return button (s113). If the predetermined operation has been accepted, the process proceeds to step S1106. If the predetermined operation has not been accepted, the process ends.

[0435] In step S1106 , the CPU 20 uses the setting information of the comparison area to instruct and reflect the setting to each driving assistance function.

[0436] In step S1107 , the CPU 20 displays the setting contents indicated by the setting information of the comparison area on the multimedia device 14 as the current setting contents.

[0437] (Second method)

[0438] Figure 19C This is the second example of the confirmation screen (s110) showing the current setting contents of the driving assistance function. Figure 19C The confirmation screen (s110) shown is provided with a first area (s111) for displaying the current setting content and a third area (s114) for displaying that the driving assistance function is turned off, that is, disabled. Figure 19C The display content of the first area (s111) shown is the same as Figure 19A same.

[0439] exist Figure 19C The third area (s114) shown displays information indicating that the PCS and FCTA are turned off. Furthermore, a toggle button (s115) for switching a specific driving assistance function from off to on, i.e., enabling it, is displayed in the third area (s114). Pressing the toggle button (s115) instructs each driving assistance function to turn on the specific driving assistance function, and the display in the first area (s111) changes to indicate that the specific driving assistance function has been turned on. Examples of specific driving assistance functions include PCS and FCTA, which assist the vehicle 10 in avoiding collisions with objects.

[0440] Next, the control flow of the second embodiment will be described. Figure 19D This is a second flowchart for explaining the flow of the driving assistance process of the driving assistance method executed by the driving assistance device according to the eleventh embodiment.

[0441] In step S1110 , CPU 20 acquires setting information from the setting area of ​​ROM 21 .

[0442] In step S1111 , the CPU 20 uses the acquired setting information of the setting area to instruct and reflect the setting to each driving assistance function.

[0443] In step S1112 , the CPU 20 displays the setting contents indicated by the setting information of the setting area on the multimedia device 14 as current setting contents.

[0444] In step S1113 , the CPU 20 determines whether the specific driving assistance function is disabled. If the specific driving assistance function is disabled, the process proceeds to step S1114 . If the specific driving assistance function is enabled, the process ends.

[0445] In step S1114 , the CPU 20 displays on the multimedia device 14 that the specific driving assistance function is disabled.

[0446] In step S1115, the CPU 20 determines whether a specific operation has been received for the vehicle 10. The specific operation is, for example, the operation of pressing the switch button (s115). If the specific operation has been received, the process proceeds to step S1116. If the specific operation has not been received, the process ends.

[0447] In step S1116 , the CPU 20 instructs each driving assistance function to reflect the switching to activation of a specific driving assistance function.

[0448] In step S1117 , the CPU 20 displays the setting content of switching the specific driving assistance function to active on the multimedia device 14 as the current setting content.

[0449] (Third Method)

[0450] Figure 19E This is the third example of the confirmation screen (s110) that displays the current setting contents of the driving assistance function. Figure 19E The confirmation screen (s110) shown is provided with a first area (s111) for displaying the current setting contents. Figure 19E The first area (s111) shown shows the current setting contents of driver A. In this way, in the third embodiment, the setting contents corresponding to the driver riding in the vehicle 10 are displayed from the setting contents of the driving assistance functions of a plurality of drivers registered in advance. Figure 19E The display content of the first area (s111) shown is the same as Figure 19A same.

[0451] Next, the control flow of the third embodiment will be described. Figure 19F This is a third flowchart for explaining the flow of a driving assistance process as a driving assistance method executed by the driving assistance device according to the eleventh embodiment.

[0452] In step S1120 , the CPU 20 acquires key information of the smart key for unlocking the doors of the vehicle 10 .

[0453] In step S1121, CPU 20 retrieves the setting information corresponding to the acquired key information from ROM 21. In the third embodiment, ROM 21 stores a plurality of setting information corresponding to each piece of key information of a plurality of smart keys. Specifically, in the third embodiment, the setting information corresponding to each piece of key information of the smart key is stored in ROM 21 as setting information indicating the settings of the driving assistance function for each driver.

[0454] In step S1122 , the CPU 20 uses the acquired setting information to instruct and reflect the setting to each driving assistance function.

[0455] In step S1123, the CPU 20 displays the setting contents indicated by the acquired setting information as the current setting contents of the driver riding in the vehicle 10 on the multimedia device 14. Figure 19B or Figure 19D The processing of each step shown is regarded as the processing after step S1123.

[0456] As described above, in the driving assistance device 12 of the eleventh embodiment, the CPU 20, as a function of the control unit 204, can individually switch the activation or deactivation of multiple driving assistance functions of the vehicle 10. Furthermore, the CPU 20 reports the current settings of the driving assistance functions set in the vehicle 10 to the driver before the vehicle 10 starts traveling. Thus, according to the driving assistance device 12, the current settings of the driving assistance functions are reported before the vehicle 10 starts traveling, allowing the driver to understand the current settings before the vehicle 10 starts traveling.

[0457] Furthermore, in the driving assistance device 12 of the eleventh embodiment, if settings different from the current settings were set during a previous trip, the CPU 20 notifies the driver of the differences between the settings set during the previous trip and the current settings. This difference between the settings set during the previous trip and the current settings may occur, for example, when the driver has changed the settings of the driving assistance function during a previous trip and then terminated the vehicle 10. In this case, upon termination of the vehicle 10's trip, the CPU 20 writes the setting information representing the pre-change settings stored in the setting area to the comparison area and writes the setting information representing the post-change settings to the setting area, thereby updating the storage contents of each area. With this configuration, the driving assistance device 12 notifies the driver of the differences between the settings set during the previous trip and the current settings before the vehicle 10 starts driving, thereby enabling the driver to understand these differences before the vehicle 10 starts driving.

[0458] Furthermore, in the driving assistance device 12 of the eleventh embodiment, the CPU 20 instructs a change to the settings during past driving upon receiving a predetermined operation on the vehicle 10. Thus, the driving assistance device 12 instructs a change to the settings during past driving, thereby reverting the settings of the driving assistance function to the settings during past driving.

[0459] Furthermore, in the driving assistance device 12 of the eleventh embodiment, when a specific driving assistance function among the plurality of driving assistance functions is switched to disabled, the CPU 20 can notify the driver of the disabled specific driving assistance function before the vehicle 10 starts traveling. Thus, the driving assistance device 12 notifies the driver of the disabled specific driving assistance function before the vehicle 10 starts traveling, allowing the driver to understand that the specific driving assistance function is not operating before the vehicle 10 starts traveling.

[0460] Furthermore, in the driving assistance device 12 of the eleventh embodiment, the specific driving assistance function is a driving assistance function that assists the vehicle 10 in avoiding a collision with an object. Thus, according to the driving assistance device 12, the fact that the driving assistance function assisting in collision avoidance is disabled is included before the vehicle 10 travels, allowing the driver to understand that the driving assistance function assisting in collision avoidance is not activated before the vehicle 10 travels.

[0461] Furthermore, in the driving assistance device 12 of the eleventh embodiment, the CPU 20 instructs switching to activation of a specific driving assistance function upon receiving a specific operation on the vehicle 10. Thus, the driving assistance device 12 instructs switching to activation of the specific driving assistance function, thereby changing the settings of the driving assistance function to activation of the specific driving assistance function.

[0462] Furthermore, in the driving assistance device 12 of the eleventh embodiment, the CPU 20 instructs the plurality of driving assistance functions on the setting contents corresponding to the driver riding in the vehicle 10, from among the setting contents of the driving assistance functions for a plurality of drivers registered in advance. Thus, the driving assistance device 12 instructs the plurality of driving assistance functions on the setting contents corresponding to the driver riding in the vehicle 10, thereby reflecting the setting contents of the driving assistance functions corresponding to each driver.

[0463] In the eleventh embodiment, the reporting function is described by taking the display of various information on the multimedia device 14 as an example, but the reporting method of the reporting function is not limited to this. For example, the reporting method of the reporting function may be to output various information from a speaker installed in the vehicle 10, or both.

[0464] In the eleventh embodiment, PCS and FCTA are described as examples of "specific driving assistance functions." However, examples of "specific driving assistance functions" are not limited to these. For example, in addition to PCS and FCTA, "specific driving assistance functions" may also include other driving assistance functions such as LDA, OAA, and AES.

[0465] In the eleventh embodiment, the CPU 20 may prohibit the vehicle 10 from running until the driver receives a predetermined confirmation operation on the confirmation screen (s110). This can prevent the vehicle 10 from running while the driver forgets the previously set driving assistance function settings.

[0466] In the eleventh embodiment, the ROM 21 stores setting information indicating the settings of the driving assistance functions set for the vehicle 10 and setting information indicating the settings of the driving assistance functions during past driving, compared with the current settings. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the setting information may be stored in an external server such as the cloud server 16.

[0467] [12th embodiment]

[0468] Next, the twelfth embodiment will be described. The twelfth embodiment is a method related to a notification-disabled driving mode in which notification-related functions (notification functions) among a plurality of grouped driving assistance functions are disabled together. In addition, in this embodiment, the group of notification-disabled driving modes can be applied as a subsidiary group (subgroup) of the above-mentioned safety settings, other driver modes, and other groups, or as a specific group for limiting groups. In addition, the driver mode is a mode in which the driving assistance function is set to provide more comfortable movement for fellow passengers.

[0469] In the twelfth embodiment, when a group with a notification-disabled driving mode is selected, the restriction unit 202 retrieves the notification function from the driving assistance functions included in the indicated group and disables it. Furthermore, the driving assistance functions included in the indicated group are driving assistance functions for which settings have already been reflected by the indicated group. An example of a group for which settings have already been reflected is the safety settings of the second embodiment. Once the safety settings have been set, the settings for AVS, FHL, DMC, and SWS have been reflected as notification functions. In this case, the notification functions of the safety settings that have been set are retrieved and disabled. Specifically, by selecting the notification-disabled driving mode, the settings change is reflected by disabling the notification functions included in the already set group. Furthermore, the user can accept a decision to release the notification-disabled driving mode. If the user agrees to release the notification-disabled driving mode, control is performed to restore the disabled notification functions to their enabled settings. In this embodiment, the notification functions to be disabled may be in both the driving assistance function and detailed function units within the driving assistance functions. The notification-disabled driving mode group disables only the notification functions, overwriting the settings of the already set group. Specifically, the notification disabled driving mode partially disables the driving assistance functions. Furthermore, when the restriction unit 202 disables the notification function, the PCS (collision avoidance assistance function), the SCB (rear-end collision handling function during parking), and the DMS (driver's state assessment function) are excluded from the disabled functions, while the notification function remains enabled. The notification functions of the other driving assistance functions are also disabled.

[0470] Furthermore, when the notification-disabled driving mode is selected, the restriction unit 202 recommends selecting the notification-disabled driving mode if passenger information and a driving purpose are obtained and the recommendation conditions for the notification-disabled driving mode related to the passenger or driving purpose are met. Either passenger information or the driving purpose may be obtained. Examples of passenger information include detection results of a registered driver in the vehicle and detection results of a passenger in the rear seat. If the recommendation condition uses passenger information, the recommendation condition is considered satisfied if one or both of these detection results are obtained. A registered driver is, for example, a driver who has previously registered as a target for the notification-disabled driving mode or a driver providing a driving service. The driving purpose is, for example, selected by the driver through a selection screen displayed on the multimedia device 14. Examples of selectable driving purposes include shopping, commuting, sightseeing, pick-up, and driving. Driving purposes are categorized into driving for general mobility purposes such as shopping and commuting, and driving that provides services to fellow passengers, such as sightseeing, pick-up, and driving. Therefore, if the driving purpose is used as the recommendation condition and driving that provides a service is selected as the driving purpose, the recommendation condition is considered satisfied. This condition is set because even if the driver is a professional, frequent warnings like an ordinary driver may be annoying. In addition, in a vehicle designed to transport passengers, frequent warnings like an ordinary passenger car may annoy passengers.

[0471] Figure 20A This is an example of a screen that suggests a notification to disable driving mode. Figure 20A In the example, a suggested reminder (sb1) is displayed overlapping the setting screen (2A). When the user presses the suggestion execution button (sb2), the notification function is also disabled. Furthermore, when the confirmation button (sb3) is pressed, the detailed screen of the currently set driving assistance function is displayed. When the cancel button (sb4) is pressed, the notification function is disabled without reflecting the notification disabled driving mode.

[0472] Figure 20B This is an example of a settings screen for each driver assistance function related to notification function disabling. On the settings screen (sb5), notification functions to be disabled are displayed in the disabled area (sb6), and configurable driver assistance functions are displayed in the enabled area (sb7). The driver assistance functions displayed in the enabled area (sb7) can be changed using the settings button. Furthermore, by pressing the button (sb8) for each driver assistance function, the user can move to the detailed screen for each function.

[0473] Figure 20CThis is an example of a detailed screen for each detailed function related to the disabled notification function. In the detailed screen (sb9), the detailed functions of the notification function to be disabled among the driving assistance functions are displayed in the disabled area (sb10), and the detailed functions that can be set are displayed in the enabled area (sb11). Figure 20C This example shows the PKSB, which displays the obstacle approach warning, which corresponds to the notification function, disabled within the detailed function unit of the PKSB. The detailed functions displayed in the enable area (sb11) can be changed using the settings button. The display of the assistance level type can be switched using the left and right toggle buttons (sb12). Figure 20B as well as Figure 20C This is an example of a method that enables changes in settings of functions other than notification-related functions.

[0474] (Control Flow)

[0475] Next, the control flow of the twelfth embodiment will be described. Figure 20D This is a flowchart illustrating a driving assistance process flow as a driving assistance method according to a twelfth embodiment.

[0476] In step S1200 , CPU 20 obtains passenger information and travel purpose.

[0477] In step S1202, CPU 20 determines whether the conditions for recommending a notification-disabled driving mode related to the passenger or the driving purpose are met based on the passenger information and the driving purpose. If the conditions are met, the process proceeds to step S1204. If the conditions are not met, the process ends.

[0478] In step S1204 , the CPU 20 proposes notification of selection of the disabled driving mode.

[0479] In step S1206, the CPU 20 obtains an operation related to the setting of the notification disabled driving mode. The setting-related operation is an execution operation or a setting confirmation operation. If the operation is canceled, the present process ends.

[0480] In step S1208 , CPU 20 acquires the notification function of the set group.

[0481] In step S1210, the CPU 20 determines whether the setting-related operation is an execution operation or a setting confirmation operation. If it is an execution operation, the process proceeds to step S1218. If it is a setting confirmation operation, the process proceeds to step S1212.

[0482] In step S1212 , the CPU 20 displays a setting screen for notifying the disabled driving mode.

[0483] In step S1214 , the CPU 20 obtains the settable driving assistance functions and the customization operation of the detailed functions.

[0484] In step S1216 , the content set by the customization operation is reflected in the setting information as the setting of the notification disabled driving mode.

[0485] In step S1218 , the CPU 20 instructs each driving assistance function to perform settings using the setting information set in the notification disabled driving mode, and also disables the notification function.

[0486] As described above, according to the twelfth embodiment, it is possible to improve convenience when disabling the driving assistance function related to notification according to the situation.

[0487] In addition, the various processes executed by the CPU 20 reading the software (program) in the above-mentioned embodiments may also be executed by various processors other than the CPU. As the processor in this case, FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) and the like, which can change the circuit structure after manufacturing, and the like, which are processors designed as dedicated circuit structures for executing specific processes, i.e., dedicated circuits, etc., may be exemplified. In addition, each of the above-mentioned processes may be executed by one of these various processors, or by a combination of two or more processors of the same or different types (e.g., 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.

[0488] In addition, in the above embodiment, the information processing program is pre-stored (installed) in a non-transitory recording medium that can be read by a computer. For example, the program is pre-stored in ROM 21. However, this is not limited to this. Each program can also be provided in a non-transitory recording medium such as a CD-ROM (Compact Disc Read Only Memory), a DVD-ROM (Digital Versatile Disc Read Only Memory), and a USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory. In addition, the information processing program can also be downloaded from an external device via a network.

[0489] The processing flow described in the above embodiment is merely an example, and unnecessary steps may be deleted, new steps may be added, or the processing order may be changed without departing from the spirit of the invention.

Claims

1. A driving assistance device, characterized in that: comprising one or more processors, wherein the one or more processors are configured to: an instruction to collectively set a group of driving assistance functions configured to enable addition or deletion of a vehicle, the setting being a setting for the driving assistance functions included in the group; and Conditional restriction control is performed to restrict the establishment of a specific condition based on the relationship between the plurality of driving assistance functions in the group, The specific condition is a state in which both a first driving assistance function and a second driving assistance function exist in the group, and the second driving assistance function is a function opposite to the first driving assistance function.

2. The driving assistance device according to claim 1, wherein: The specific condition is when the first driving assistance function exists in the group and the second driving assistance function is added to the group.

3. The driving assistance device according to claim 2, wherein: The conditional restriction control is a control for deleting the first driving assistance function from the group when the specific condition is satisfied.

4. The driving assistance device according to claim 2, wherein: The conditional restriction control is a control for restricting the addition of the second driving assistance function to the group.

5. The driving assistance device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that: The conditional restriction control includes displaying a character string or an icon indicating that the first driving assistance function and the second driving assistance function cannot coexist.

6. A driving assistance method, characterized in that: include: performing conditional restriction control to restrict a situation in which a specific condition based on a relationship between a plurality of driving assistance functions within a group configured to enable addition or deletion of the driving assistance functions of the vehicle is satisfied, the specific condition being a state in which both a first driving assistance function and a second driving assistance function are present in the group, the second driving assistance function being a function opposite to the first driving assistance function; and Instructions for setting the driving assistance functions included in the group are collectively issued.

7. A driving assistance program product, characterized in that: include: performing conditional restriction control to restrict a situation in which a specific condition based on a relationship between a plurality of driving assistance functions within a group configured to enable addition or deletion of the driving assistance functions of the vehicle is satisfied, the specific condition being a state in which both a first driving assistance function and a second driving assistance function are present in the group, the second driving assistance function being a function opposite to the first driving assistance function; and Instructions for setting the driving assistance functions included in the group are collectively issued.

Images