Vehicle control method and display device

Abstract

A passenger can use a display arranged in a vehicle to see and see images, and carsickness of the passenger can be restrained. A vehicle is provided with a display disposed between a rear seat and a front seat, and when a first condition is satisfied, the display displays an image in a first size such that the center of the image is in a first position, and when a second condition different from the first condition is satisfied, the display displays the image in a second size such that the center of the image is in a second position. The display displays the image in a second size smaller than the first size such that the center of the image is at the second position.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to vehicle control methods and display devices. Background Technology

[0002] It is known that motion sickness can easily occur when watching videos or other media inside a vehicle. Patent Document 1 discloses a vehicle control system comprising: an automatic driving control unit that performs automatic driving control of at least one of the vehicle's speed control and steering control; a display unit that displays content; and a display control unit that, when the automatic driving control unit performs automatic driving, causes the content that can be displayed in automatic driving to change according to the vehicle's behavior and displays it on the display unit.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-76027

[0006] Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2015-141099

[0007] Patent Document 3: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2013-16692

[0008] Patent Document 4: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2021-93083 Summary of the Invention

[0009] The problem the invention aims to solve

[0010] Motion sickness is more likely to occur when watching images displayed on large screens inside the car. On the other hand, there is a demand for viewing and listening to images on in-car displays.

[0011] The purpose of this disclosure is to provide a technology that enables occupants to view and listen to images using a display installed in the vehicle and to suppress motion sickness.

[0012] Solution for solving the problem

[0013] One aspect of this disclosure provides a vehicle control method, which is a vehicle control method in a vehicle, said vehicle having at least:

[0014] The first wheel, which is connected to the vehicle body;

[0015] The second wheel is connected to the vehicle body;

[0016] The third wheel, which is connected to the vehicle body; and

[0017] The fourth wheel, which is connected to the vehicle body,

[0018] The vehicle is capable of using the first wheel, the second wheel, the third wheel, and the fourth wheel to travel in a predetermined direction.

[0019] The vehicle body has the following features:

[0020] The floor and ceiling surfaces are configured along the specified orientation;

[0021] The left side face connects the floor face to the ceiling face and is arranged on the left side face along the prescribed orientation;

[0022] The right side face connects the floor face to the ceiling face and is arranged on the right side face along the prescribed orientation;

[0023] The front portion, which connects the floor surface to the ceiling surface, is positioned at the front in the prescribed orientation;

[0024] The rear section connects the floor section to the ceiling section and is positioned at the rear in the prescribed orientation;

[0025] At least one front seat, which is positioned on the floor surface at a location closer to the front surface than the rear surface;

[0026] At least one rear seat, which is positioned on the floor surface at a location closer to the rear surface than the front portion; and

[0027] A display screen is disposed between the rear seat and the front seat.

[0028] In the vehicle control method described above.

[0029] If the first condition is met, the display will show the image at a first size with the image center at a first position.

[0030] If a second condition, which is different from the first condition, is met, the display will show the image at a second size, smaller than the first size, with the image center at a second position.

[0031] One aspect of this disclosure provides a display device configured to be mounted in a vehicle, the vehicle having at least:

[0032] The first wheel, which is connected to the vehicle body;

[0033] The second wheel is connected to the vehicle body;

[0034] The third wheel, which is connected to the vehicle body; and

[0035] The fourth wheel, which is connected to the vehicle body,

[0036] The vehicle is capable of using the first wheel, the second wheel, the third wheel, and the fourth wheel to travel in a predetermined direction.

[0037] The vehicle body has the following features:

[0038] The floor and ceiling surfaces are configured along the specified orientation;

[0039] The left side face connects the floor face to the ceiling face and is arranged on the left side face along the prescribed orientation;

[0040] The right side face connects the floor face to the ceiling face and is arranged on the right side face along the prescribed orientation;

[0041] The front portion, which connects the floor surface to the ceiling surface, is positioned at the front in the prescribed orientation;

[0042] The rear section connects the floor section to the ceiling section and is positioned at the rear in the prescribed orientation;

[0043] At least one front seat, which is positioned on the floor surface at a location closer to the front surface than the rear surface;

[0044] At least one rear seat, which is positioned on the floor surface at a location closer to the rear surface than the front portion; and

[0045] A display screen is disposed between the rear seat and the front seat.

[0046] If the first condition is met, the display will show the image at a first size with the image center at a first position.

[0047] If a second condition, which is different from the first condition, is met, the display will show the image at a second size, smaller than the first size, with the image center at a second position.

[0048] Furthermore, these general or specific technical solutions can be implemented by systems, devices, methods, integrated circuits, computer programs, or recording media, or by any combination of systems, devices, methods, integrated circuits, computer programs, and recording media.

[0049] The effects of the invention

[0050] According to this disclosure, occupants can use the display screen installed in the vehicle to view and listen to images, and can suppress motion sickness. Attached Figure Description

[0051] Figure 1The structural example of the vehicle involved in Embodiment 1 is shown in a top view of the interior of the vehicle from above.

[0052] Figure 2 The structural example of the vehicle involved in Embodiment 1 is shown in a side view of the interior of the vehicle from a transverse perspective.

[0053] Figure 3 The diagram shows a structural example of the vehicle according to Embodiment 1, viewed from the rear seat inside the vehicle.

[0054] Figure 4 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of a device provided in a vehicle according to Embodiment 1.

[0055] Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating an example of an image displayed in a first display mode on a display according to Embodiment 1.

[0056] Figure 6 This is a diagram illustrating an example of an image displayed in a second display mode on a display according to Embodiment 1.

[0057] Figure 7 This is a diagram illustrating an example of an image displayed in a third display mode on a display according to Embodiment 1.

[0058] Figure 8 This diagram illustrates the display method of the occupant instruction change image according to Embodiment 1.

[0059] Figure 9 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the display processing involved in Embodiment 1.

[0060] Figure 10 It is shown Figure 9 The flowchart shown is a subsequent part of the display process.

[0061] Figure 11 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the change in the vehicle's acceleration and the change in the display mode of the display according to Embodiment 1.

[0062] Figure 12 The structural example of the vehicle involved in Embodiment 2 is shown in a top view of the interior of the vehicle from above.

[0063] Figure 13 The structural example of the vehicle involved in Embodiment 2 is shown in a side view of the interior of the vehicle from a transverse perspective.

[0064] Figure 14 The diagram shows a structural example of the vehicle involved in Embodiment 2, viewed from the rear seat inside the vehicle.

[0065] Figure 15This is a block diagram illustrating an example of a device provided in a vehicle according to Embodiment 2.

[0066] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of the first content involved in Embodiment 2.

[0067] Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram showing an image of a prescribed pattern as an example of the second content involved in Embodiment 2.

[0068] Figure 18 This is a schematic diagram showing an image of a swinging curtain, which is an example of the second content involved in Embodiment 2.

[0069] Figure 19 This is a schematic diagram showing an image of a wave-like water surface, which is an example of the second content involved in Embodiment 2.

[0070] Figure 20 This is a schematic diagram showing an example of an image of a grassland swaying in the wind, which is an example of the second content involved in Embodiment 2.

[0071] Figure 21 This is a schematic diagram showing an image of a cactus, which is an example of the second content involved in Embodiment 2.

[0072] Figure 22 This is a schematic diagram showing an image of a fish swimming in water, which is an example of the second content involved in Embodiment 2.

[0073] Figure 23 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a cloud flow image, which is an example of the second content involved in Embodiment 2.

[0074] Figure 24 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the situation determination process involved in Implementation 2.

[0075] Figure 25 It is shown Figure 24 The flowchart shows an example of a subsequent process B.

[0076] Figure 26 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the vehicle loading process involved in Implementation 2.

[0077] Figure 27 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the disembarkation process involved in Embodiment 2. Detailed Implementation

[0078] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with appropriate reference to the accompanying drawings. However, sometimes unnecessary details are omitted. For example, detailed descriptions of well-known matters and repetitive descriptions of substantially the same structures are sometimes omitted. This is to avoid unnecessarily lengthy descriptions and to facilitate understanding by those skilled in the art. Furthermore, the drawings and the following description are provided to enable those skilled in the art to fully understand the present disclosure and are not intended to limit the subject matter of the claims.

[0079] (Implementation Method 1)

[0080] <Vehicle Structure>

[0081] Figure 1 The structure of the vehicle 1 according to Embodiment 1 is shown as a top view of the interior of the vehicle from above. Figure 2 The following is a structural example of the vehicle 1 according to Embodiment 1, shown as a side view of the interior of the vehicle from a transverse perspective. Figure 3 The diagram showing a structural example of the vehicle 1 according to Embodiment 1 is a view of the front from the rear seat 22 inside the vehicle. Next, referring to... Figure 1 , Figure 2 as well as Figure 3 The structure of vehicle 1 will be described.

[0082] In addition, for ease of explanation, such as Figure 1 as well as Figure 2 As shown, the length direction of vehicle 1 is defined as the Y-axis, the width direction as the X-axis, and the height direction as the Z-axis. For ease of explanation, the positive direction of the Z-axis is sometimes referred to as "up," the negative direction as "down," the positive direction of the Y-axis as "front," the negative direction as "rear," the positive direction of the X-axis as "right," and the negative direction as "left." Furthermore, these directional descriptions are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the actual orientation of the structure during use.

[0083] Vehicle 1 has at least a body 2, and a first wheel 3A, a second wheel 3B, a third wheel 3C, and a fourth wheel 3D connected to the body 2, and is capable of traveling in a predetermined direction (e.g., the direction of the Y-axis) using the first wheel 3A, the second wheel 3B, the third wheel 3C, and the fourth wheel 3D. However, vehicle 1 is not limited to a structure with four wheels, and may also have a structure with two, three, or more than five wheels. In addition, vehicle 1 may also be a private car, a commercial vehicle, a taxi, a truck, or a bus, etc.

[0084] The vehicle body 2 has a floor surface 11 and a roof surface 12 arranged along a prescribed orientation.

[0085] The vehicle body 2 includes: a left side face 13, which connects the floor face 11 and the roof face 12 and is arranged on the left side in a predetermined orientation; and a right side face 14, which connects the floor face 11 and the roof face 12 and is arranged on the right side in a predetermined orientation.

[0086] The vehicle body 2 includes: a front section 16 that connects the floor section 11 and the roof section 12 and is disposed in a predetermined orientation at the front section 15; and a rear section 18 that connects the floor section 11 and the roof section 12 and is disposed in a predetermined orientation at the rear section 17.

[0087] The vehicle body 2 includes: at least one front seat 21, which is located on the floor surface 11 at a position closer to the front part 16 than the rear part 18; and at least one rear seat 22, which is located on the floor surface 11 at a position closer to the rear part 18 than the front part 16.

[0088] The front part 16 is equipped with a front window 4, which allows the driver to visually inspect the outside of the vehicle from the front seat 21 in a specified orientation.

[0089] The vehicle body 2 also includes a rectangular display 100 between the rear seat 22 and the front seat 21. The display 100 is capable of varying the light transmittance. Examples of the display 100 include organic EL displays or LED displays. For instance, the display 100 has a structure in which a liquid crystal shutter capable of controlling the light transmittance is superimposed on a light-transmitting self-emissive display panel (e.g., an organic EL panel). The display 100 then adjusts the light transmittance of the liquid crystal shutter corresponding to an area where near-transparency is desired to be near 100%, and adjusts the light transmittance of the liquid crystal shutter corresponding to an area where near-light blocking is desired to be near 0%. Thus, the display 100 can make any area nearly transparent or nearly light-blocking.

[0090] With the display 100 in a transparent state, the occupants sitting in the rear seat 22 can visually confirm the outside of the vehicle through the display 100 and the front window 4.

[0091] The display 100 is configured to reproduce a specified image. In this embodiment, the image is described as a moving image, but the image may also be a still image.

[0092] Vehicle 1 has a speaker 101 in the rear compartment. For example... Figure 3 As shown, the speaker 101 can be located at the bottom of the display 100. However, the speaker 101 can also be located in any position.

[0093] Vehicle 1 has an operating unit 102 located near the rear seat 22 inside the vehicle. The operating unit 102 may be a tablet terminal installed inside the vehicle. Alternatively, the operating unit 102 may be a structure that connects a passenger's smartphone to vehicle 1 via wired or wireless means. Alternatively, the operating unit 102 may also be used to operate an IVI device 114 (see reference). Figure 4 The remote control is for occupants. Further details regarding the operations that occupants can perform via the control unit 109 will be described later.

[0094] like Figure 3 As shown, the occupants of the rear seat 22 can see and hear the images displayed on the display 100. However, the forward view of the occupants of the rear seat 22, who are viewing and hearing the images displayed on the entire display 100, is obstructed by the images. Therefore, when the vehicle 1 is moving significantly (e.g., when there is a large acceleration caused by the vehicle 1 accelerating, decelerating, or turning), they are prone to motion sickness. Therefore, in this embodiment, a technique for suppressing motion sickness in the occupants of the rear seat 22 by appropriately controlling the display mode of the images on the display 100 will be described.

[0095] <Structure of the device>

[0096] Figure 4 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the device provided in the vehicle 1 according to Embodiment 1.

[0097] like Figure 4 As shown, vehicle 1 includes a communication device 111, a vehicle control device 112, a seating detection device 113, an IVI device 114, an image control device 115, an audio control device 116, a display 100, and a speaker 101.

[0098] The communication device 111, vehicle control device 112, seating detection device 113, IVI device 114, video control device 115, and audio control device 116 can send and receive information with each other via the vehicle network 110. Examples of vehicle networks 110 include Controller Area Network (CAN), Local Interconnect Network (LIN), and FlexRay.

[0099] Communication device 111 is a device that wirelessly communicates with an external device (e.g., a server) through a defined communication network. Examples of communication networks include mobile communication networks (e.g., LTE, 4G, 5G, 6G, etc.), Wi-Fi (registered trademark), Bluetooth (registered trademark), etc.

[0100] The vehicle control device 112 is a device that controls the behavior of the vehicle 1. For example, the vehicle control device 112 controls the starting and stopping, acceleration and deceleration, and turning of the vehicle 1. In addition, the vehicle control device 112 provides information indicating the starting and stopping, acceleration and deceleration, and turning status.

[0101] The seating detection device 113 is used to detect whether an occupant is seated in any of the seats. For example, the seating detection device 113 can detect whether an occupant is seated using a weight sensor located in the seat. Alternatively, the seating detection device 113 can detect whether an occupant is seated based on whether the seatbelt is fastened. Alternatively, the seating detection device 113 can detect whether an occupant is seated by performing person detection processing based on images captured by a camera installed in the vehicle to determine the location of the person in the seat.

[0102] IVI device 114 is a device that provides information and entertainment related to vehicle 1. IVI is an abbreviation for In-Vehicle Infotainment. For example, IVI device 114 outputs music and video from car audio systems, car DVDs, TV tuners, radios, VODs, etc. IVI device 114 can also be replaced by a control unit or electronic control unit (ECU). In addition, IVI device 114 may also have a processor and memory, etc.

[0103] The IVI device 114 searches for and outputs the path to the destination. The IVI device 114 can use built-in map data to search for the path to the destination, or it can use the communication device 111 to enable an external device to search for the path to the destination, acquire the search results, and output them. Furthermore, the path to the destination can be displayed to the driver as navigation or used as part of the vehicle 1's autonomous driving plan.

[0104] The IVI device 114 cooperates with the image control device 115 to control the image display of the display 100. Details of the image display control method will be described later. The IVI device 114 cooperates with the audio control device 116 to control the audio output of the speaker 101. Details of the audio output control method will be described later.

[0105] The image control device 115 controls the image display of the display 100. The image can be either a still image or a moving image. Furthermore, the image control device 115 can control the light transmittance of any area of ​​the display 100. The image control device 115 can control the display of the image on the display 100 and control the transmittance of any area via control from the IVI device 114. Alternatively, the display device may include both the image control device 115 and the display 100. Or, the display device may include the IVI device 114, the image control device 115, and the display 100.

[0106] The audio control device 116 controls the audio output of the speaker 101. The audio control device 116 can control the audio output of the speaker 101 through control from the IVI device 114.

[0107] <First Display Method>

[0108] Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating an example of an image displayed in a first display mode on a display 100 according to Embodiment 1.

[0109] like Figure 5 As shown, as a first display mode, the display 100 displays the image 200 in a manner in which the center of the image 200 is positioned at a first position and the size of the image 200 is a first size. The first position may be the center C of the display 100. The first display mode may be selected if a first condition is met.

[0110] The first condition can be that the acceleration in vehicle 1 in a specified direction has a first magnitude. The first magnitude of the acceleration in a specified direction can be the magnitude of the time average over a specified time. The specified direction can be at least one of the left-right direction (X-axis direction), the up-down direction (Z-axis direction) of vehicle 1, and the front-back direction (Y-axis direction) of vehicle 1.

[0111] For example, if the time average of the acceleration of vehicle 1 in any of the left-right, up-down, and front-back directions over a specified period is a first magnitude (e.g., a magnitude below a threshold β), it is considered that the first condition is met, and the display 100 displays image 200 with its center at a first position and its size at a first size. The first position may be the position of the center C of the display 100, and the first size of image 200 may be the maximum size of an image that the display 100 can display. However, the first position and first size of image 200 are not limited to these.

[0112] In addition, as a first display method, the display 100 can make the light transmittance of the display area of ​​the image 200 less than a predetermined threshold (e.g., not transparent).

[0113] Therefore, since the acceleration of vehicle 1 in any direction is sufficiently small and the likelihood of motion sickness for the occupants of rear seat 22 is low, the occupants of rear seat 22 can see and hear images 200 displayed on display 100 at a larger scale.

[0114] <Second Display Method>

[0115] Figure 6 This is a diagram illustrating an example of an image displayed in a second display mode on a display 100 according to Embodiment 1.

[0116] like Figure 6 As shown, as a second display method, the display 100 displays the image 200 in a manner where the center of the image 200 is positioned in a second position and the size of the image 200 is a second size smaller than the first size. For example, the area of ​​the image 200 at its second largest size can be 1 / 4 to 1 / 16 times the area of ​​the image 200 at its first largest size. The second position can be to the left or right of the first position. However, in the second display method, the second position can also be the same as the first position. The second display method can be selected if a second condition different from the first condition is met.

[0117] Furthermore, as a second display method, the display 100 can display the image in a manner where the center of the image 200 is positioned in a third position and the size of the image 200 is a third size smaller than the first size. For example, the area of ​​the image 200 at its third size can be 1 / 4 to 1 / 16 times the area of ​​the image 200. If the second position is to the left of the first position, the third position can be to the right of the first position. If the second position is to the right of the first position, the third position can be to the left of the first position. Additionally, the second and / or third positions can be lower than the first position.

[0118] The second (or third) position can be determined in correspondence with the occupant's seating position in the rear seat 22. The occupant's seating position is detected by the seating detection device 113. Alternatively, the seating detection device 113 can be replaced by a seating position detection circuit.

[0119] The second condition can be that the acceleration in vehicle 1 in a specified direction is a second magnitude greater than the first magnitude. The second magnitude of the acceleration in the specified direction can be the magnitude of the time average over a specified period. The specified direction can be at least one of the left-right direction (X-axis direction), the up-down direction (Z-axis direction), and the forward-backward direction (Y-axis direction) of vehicle 1. Additionally, the second condition can be that the predetermined path traveled by vehicle 1 satisfies specific conditions.

[0120] For example, if the average time of acceleration of vehicle 1 in any of the left-right, up-down, and front-back directions is greater than a second size (which is the first size), the second condition is considered met. The display 100 then displays an image 200 whose center is at a second position and whose size is the second size, and / or an image 200 whose center is at a third position and whose size is the third size. The second position can be the lower left of the display 100, and the third position can be the lower right of the display 100. Alternatively, the second position can be the lower right of the display 100, and the third position can be the lower left of the display 100. Furthermore, since the second-sized and third-sized images 200 are smaller than the first-sized image 200, they are sometimes referred to as reduced-size images in this embodiment.

[0121] When it is detected that an occupant is seated in the left rear seat 22A, the display 100 may display a reduced image 201A in the lower left position. For example, the display 100 may display the reduced image 201A in such a way that the central axis 210A (single-dot-dash line) of the width (width in the X-axis direction) of the left rear seat 22A is the central axis of the width of the reduced image 201A.

[0122] When it is detected that an occupant is seated in the right rear seat 22B, the display 100 displays a reduced image 201B in the lower right position. For example, the display 100 may display the reduced image 201B in such a way that the central axis 210B (single-dotted line) of the width (width in the X-axis direction) of the right rear seat 22B is the central axis of the width of the reduced image 201B.

[0123] In addition, as a second display method, the display 100 may make the light transmittance of the area where the reduced images 201A and / or 201B are not displayed higher (e.g., transparent) than the area where the reduced images 201A and / or 201B are displayed.

[0124] Therefore, given the significant acceleration of vehicle 1 in any direction and the high likelihood of motion sickness among occupants in the rear seat 22, the rear seat occupants can directly view and hear the reduced images 201A and / or 201B displayed on the monitor 100, thus reducing the likelihood of motion sickness compared to the first display method. Furthermore, the areas of the monitor 100 not displaying the reduced images 201A and / or 201B are transparent, ensuring unobstructed forward visibility for the rear seat occupants (i.e., they can see the scenery through the front window 4), further reducing the likelihood of motion sickness compared to the first display method.

[0125] Furthermore, the reduced image 201A displayed in the lower left corner of the display 100 can be reduced in size to overlap with the left front seat 21A. Similarly, the reduced image 201B displayed in the lower right corner of the display 100 can be reduced in size to overlap with the right front seat 21B. As a result, the occupant of the rear seat 22 can see the scenery ahead through the transparent area of ​​the display 100 that does not overlap with the front seat 21 and the windshield 4, thus reducing the likelihood of motion sickness.

[0126] Furthermore, if the second condition is met, the display 100 can display information indicating that the image has been intentionally scaled down when switching to the second display mode. Thus, the occupants of the rear seat 22 can understand the reason why the image 200 has been scaled down.

[0127] <Third Display Method>

[0128] Figure 7 This is a diagram illustrating an example of an image displayed in a third display mode on a display 100 according to Embodiment 1.

[0129] like Figure 7 As shown, as a third display method, the display 100 displays the image 200 in the same way as the second display method described above, and makes the areas where the image 200 is not displayed opaque, thus becoming an image with a predetermined hue and / or brightness (hereinafter referred to as background image 202). The predetermined hue can be the average hue of all pixels of the image 200. The predetermined brightness can be the average brightness of all pixels of the image 200.

[0130] The third display method can be selected if a third condition, different from the first or second condition, is met. The third condition can be that the acceleration in vehicle 1 related to a specified direction is a third magnitude between the first and second magnitudes. The third magnitude of the acceleration related to the specified direction can be the magnitude of the time average over a specified period. The specified direction can be at least one of the left-right direction of vehicle 1, the up-down direction of vehicle 1, and the forward-backward direction of vehicle 1.

[0131] For example, if the average time of acceleration applied to vehicle 1 is a third size between the first and second sizes, the third condition is considered satisfied, and the display 100 displays an image 200 whose center is in the second position and whose size is the second size, and / or an image 200 whose center is in the third position and whose size is the third size. Furthermore, the display 100 displays a background image 202 with a hue and / or brightness matching that of the image 200 in areas where the image 200 is not displayed.

[0132] Therefore, when the acceleration of vehicle 1 in any direction is large enough that the likelihood of motion sickness for the occupants of rear seat 22 is moderate, the occupants of rear seat 22 can view and hear the reduced images 201A and / or 201B displayed on the display 100 facing forward, thus reducing the likelihood of motion sickness compared to the first display method. Furthermore, a background image 202 with a hue and / or brightness matching that of image 200 is displayed in an area of ​​the display 100 not showing reduced images 201A and / or 201B, thus enhancing the immersion of the occupants of rear seat 22 in image 200 compared to the second display method.

[0133] Furthermore, vehicle 1 does not necessarily need to install all of the first, second, and third display methods; it only needs to install at least one of the first, second, and third display methods.

[0134] <Changes in image size, etc.>

[0135] Figure 8 This diagram illustrates the display method of the occupant instruction change image 200 according to Embodiment 1.

[0136] The occupant can use the operation unit 109 to switch between displaying and not displaying the image 200, change the display position of the image 200 (up, down, left, right), or change the display size of the image 200.

[0137] For example, when the second or third display mode is selected, the occupant in the left rear seat 22A can enlarge the reduced image 201A, which will be displayed in the lower left position, to half the width of the display 100 while maintaining the aspect ratio.

[0138] For example, when the second or third display mode is selected, the occupant in the rear seat 22B on the right can enlarge the reduced image 201B displayed in the lower right position to half the width of the display 100 while maintaining the aspect ratio.

[0139] <Processing Flow>

[0140] Next, the methods for switching between the first, second, and third display modes will be explained.

[0141] Figure 9 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the display processing involved in Embodiment 1.

[0142] IVI device 114 determines whether a path to the destination has been set (S101).

[0143] With a path to the destination set (S101: "Yes"), the IVI device 114 acquires the current position and speed of vehicle 1 (S102). Furthermore, the current position of vehicle 1 can be determined by a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS). The current speed of vehicle 1 can be provided by the vehicle control device 112. Based on the position and speed acquired in step S101 and the future path, the IVI device 114 calculates and predicts the acceleration to be applied to vehicle 1 over a certain period in the future (S103). Then, the process proceeds to step S105.

[0144] If no path to the destination is set (S101: "No"), the IVI device 114 acquires the speed and / or acceleration of the vehicle 1 over a certain period of time in the past (i.e., past historical records) (S104). Then, the process proceeds to step S105.

[0145] IVI device 114 determines whether image 200 is being displayed on monitor 100 (S105).

[0146] If the display 100 is not displaying the image 200 (S105: "No"), the process returns to step S101.

[0147] While the display 100 is displaying the image 200 (S105: "Yes"), the process proceeds to the stage described later. Figure 10 Step B is shown.

[0148] Figure 10 It is shown Figure 9 The flowchart shown is a subsequent part of the display process.

[0149] IVI device 114 determines that Figure 9 The average acceleration calculated in step S103 over a certain period of time in the future, or in Figure 9In step S104, it is determined whether the average acceleration obtained over a certain period of time in the past is greater than a threshold α (i.e., whether the average acceleration is at a first magnitude) (S111). That is, based on the future path, it is determined whether it is predicted that a considerable acceleration will be applied to vehicle 1 in a certain period of time in the future.

[0150] Next, the case where the acceleration is determined to be greater than the threshold α (S111: "Yes") will be explained. In this case, the IVI device 114 selects the second display mode described above and performs the following processing, for example.

[0151] The IVI device 114 displays a telop indicating that the image is being displayed individually in a smaller size on the display 100 (S112). Furthermore, the IVI device 114 may output sound representing this telop from the speaker 101, either in place of or in conjunction with the telop-based display.

[0152] The IVI device 114 obtains the seating status of the rear seat 22 through the seating detection device 113 (S113). That is, the IVI device 114 detects the rear seat 22 where the occupant is seated.

[0153] The IVI device 114 controls the display 100 via the image control device 115 to make the area other than the area where the image 200 is displayed transparent (i.e., above the specified transmittance) (S114).

[0154] The IVI device 114 displays a reduced image 201A and / or 201B on the display 100 at a position in front of the rear seat 22 where the occupant is seated, via the image control device 115 (S115). For example, if the occupant is seated in the left rear seat 22A, the IVI device 114 displays a reduced image 201A at the lower left position of the display 100, and if the occupant is seated in the right rear seat 22B, the reduced image 201B at the lower right position of the display 100.

[0155] Therefore, when the image 200 is displayed on the display 100 in the second display mode described above, motion sickness of the occupants in the rear seat 22 can be suppressed when the vehicle 1 is subjected to considerable acceleration on the subsequent path.

[0156] When an occupant operates the operation unit 102, the IVI device 114 changes the display of the reduced images 201A and / or 201B based on the operation content (S140). For example, it may enlarge or reduce the reduced images 201A and / or 201B, change the display position of the reduced images 201A and / or 201B, or change whether the reduced images 201A and / or 201B are displayed or not. Then, processing returns to... Figure 9 Step A is shown.

[0157] Next, the case where the acceleration is below the threshold α (S111: "No") will be explained.

[0158] IVI device 114 determines that Figure 9 The average acceleration calculated in step S103 over a certain period of time in the future, or in Figure 9 In step S104, it is determined whether the average acceleration obtained over a certain period of time in the past is greater than the threshold β (where β < α) (i.e., whether the acceleration is of the third magnitude) (S121). That is, based on the future path, it is determined whether a moderate degree of acceleration will be applied to vehicle 1 in a certain period of time in the future.

[0159] Next, the case where the acceleration is determined to be greater than the threshold β (S121: "Yes") will be explained. In this case, the IVI device 114 selects the third display mode described above and performs the following processing, for example.

[0160] The IVI device 114 displays subtitles indicating that the image is being reduced in size for individual display on the display 100 (S122). Furthermore, the IVI device 114 may output sound indicating the meaning from the speaker 101, either in place of or in conjunction with the display based on the subtitles.

[0161] IVI device 114 obtains the seating status of rear seat 22 through seating detection device 113 (S123).

[0162] The IVI device 114 controls the display 100 via the image control device 115 to make the entire surface light-blocked (i.e., less than the specified transmittance) (S124).

[0163] The IVI device 114 displays a reduced image 201A and / or 201B in the display 100 at a position in front of the rear seat 22 where the occupant is seated, via the image control device 115. Furthermore, the IVI device 114 displays a background image 202 with a hue and / or brightness matching that of the image 200 in the display 100 via the image control device 115 (S125). Then, the process proceeds to step S115 as described above.

[0164] Therefore, when the image 200 is displayed on the display 100 in the third display mode described above, it is possible to both suppress motion sickness in the occupants of the rear seat 22 when the vehicle 1 is subjected to a moderate degree of acceleration in the future path and to provide a sense of immersion in the image 200.

[0165] Next, the case where the average acceleration is determined to be below the threshold β (S121: "No") will be explained. In this case, the IVI device 114 selects the first display mode described above and performs the following processing, for example.

[0166] The IVI device 114 displays a subtitle indicating that the image should be restored to its original size (e.g., maximum size) on the display 100 (S131). Furthermore, the IVI device 114 may output sound indicating this meaning from the speaker 101, either in place of or in conjunction with the subtitle-based display.

[0167] IVI device 114 controls display 100 via image control device 115 to make the entire surface light-blocked (i.e., less than the specified transmittance) (S132).

[0168] The IVI device 114 restores the image 200 to its original size (e.g., maximum size) via the image control device 115 and displays it on the monitor 100 (S133). Then, the processing returns to... Figure 9 Step A is shown.

[0169] Therefore, by displaying the image 200 on the display 100 in the first display mode described above, the immersion of the occupants of the rear seat 22 in the image 200 can be improved even when the acceleration applied to the vehicle 1 during the subsequent path is sufficiently small.

[0170] also, Figure 9 as well as Figure 10 The process shown can also be partially omitted. For example, steps S121 to S125 can also be omitted. In this case, if the determination result in step S111 is "no", the process can proceed to step S131.

[0171] <Examples of changes in acceleration and display methods>

[0172] Figure 11 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the change in the acceleration of the vehicle 1 and the change in the display mode of the display 100 according to Embodiment 1.

[0173] For example, suppose that vehicle 1 is configured with the following... Figure 11 The path shown.

[0174] The IVI device 114 selects the first display mode when it predicts that the vehicle 1 will move along path R1 and estimates that the average acceleration during a certain period T1 of moving along path R1 will be 0.2G (acceleration 0.2G < threshold β). Therefore, the occupants of the rear seat 22 can see and hear the image 200 displayed on the display 100 at a larger scale during a certain period T1 when the possibility of motion sickness due to the relatively small acceleration is relatively low. That is, the display 100 can provide a highly immersive image 200.

[0175] As vehicle 1 moves further forward, IVI device 114, predicting that vehicle 1 will continue along path R2 and that the average acceleration during a certain period T2 during which it is estimated to be 0.3G (threshold β ≤ acceleration 0.3G < threshold α), selects a third display mode. Thus, the occupant of rear seat 22 can, during a certain period T2 when the likelihood of motion sickness due to moderate acceleration is moderate, simultaneously experience a background image 202 with a hue and / or brightness matching that of image 200 while viewing and listening to a reduced-size image 201A and / or 201B facing forward. In other words, display 100 can balance motion sickness suppression with immersive viewing and listening.

[0176] As vehicle 1 moves further forward, IVI device 114, predicting that vehicle 1 will continue along path R3 and estimating that the average acceleration during a certain period T3 of travel along path R3 will be 0.4G (acceleration 0.4G ≥ threshold α), selects the second display mode. Thus, the occupant of rear seat 22 can, during a certain period T3 when the likelihood of motion sickness due to relatively high acceleration is high, simultaneously experience the scenery outside the vehicle through the transparent area of ​​display 100 while viewing and listening to the reduced-size images 201A and / or 201B facing forward. In other words, display 100 can simultaneously suppress motion sickness and provide visual and auditory information.

[0177] Furthermore, the IVI device 114 can calculate the predicted value of the average acceleration in each section of the path based on the signals and temporary stop lines set on the path, the radius of curvature of the curves in the path, the legal speed in the path, and / or the driving characteristics of vehicle 1. In addition, by using average acceleration, the situation where conditions change frequently due to slight changes in acceleration is suppressed.

[0178] (Summary of Implementation Method 1)

[0179] Based on the description of Embodiment 1 above, the following technology is disclosed.

[0180] <Technical A1>

[0181] The vehicle 1 has at least a first wheel 3A connected to the vehicle body 2, a second wheel 3B connected to the vehicle body 2, a third wheel 3C connected to the vehicle body 2, and a fourth wheel 3D connected to the vehicle body 2, and is able to use the first wheel 3A, the second wheel 3B, the third wheel 3C, and the fourth wheel 3D to travel in a predetermined direction.

[0182] The vehicle body 2 includes: a floor surface 11 and a roof surface 12 arranged along the predetermined orientation; a left side surface 13 connecting the floor surface 11 and the roof surface 12, arranged on the left side along the predetermined orientation; a right side surface 14 connecting the floor surface 11 and the roof surface 12, arranged on the right side along the predetermined orientation; a front surface 16 connecting the floor surface 11 and the roof surface 12, arranged at the front 15 in the predetermined orientation; a rear surface 18 connecting the floor surface 11 and the roof surface 12, arranged at the rear 17 in the predetermined orientation; at least one front seat 21 arranged on the floor surface 11 at a position closer to the front surface 16 than the rear surface 18; at least one rear seat 22 arranged on the floor surface 11 at a position closer to the rear surface 18 than the front surface 16; and a display 100 arranged between the rear seat 22 and the front seat 21.

[0183] As a vehicle control method in the vehicle 1, when a first condition is met, the display 100 displays the image 200 at a first size with the image center at a first position. When a second condition different from the first condition is met, the display 100 displays the image 200 (e.g., reduced image 201A and / or 201B) at a second size with the image center at a second position, which is smaller than the first size.

[0184] Therefore, the display 100 can display images in an appropriate manner according to the conditions, and can enable the occupants of the rear seat 22 to have access to visual and auditory images and suppress motion sickness.

[0185] <Technology A2>

[0186] In the vehicle control method described in Technique A1, the second position is to the left of the first position, or the second position is to the right of the first position.

[0187] Therefore, when the second condition is met, the image is displayed to the left or right of the first position, allowing the occupants of the rear seat 22 to view the image more directly. This further reduces motion sickness in the rear seat occupants.

[0188] <Technology A3>

[0189] In the vehicle control method described in technique A1 or A2, the first condition is that the acceleration in the vehicle 1 in relation to a predetermined direction is a first magnitude, and the second condition is that the acceleration in the vehicle 1 in relation to the predetermined direction is a second magnitude greater than the first magnitude.

[0190] Therefore, when the second condition of being more prone to motion sickness is met, the display on the monitor 100 shows a smaller image than when the first condition is met, thus further suppressing motion sickness in the occupants of the rear seat 22.

[0191] <Technology A4>

[0192] In the vehicle control method described in Technique A3, the first magnitude of the acceleration related to the specified direction is the time-averaged magnitude over a specified time, and the second magnitude of the acceleration related to the specified direction is the time-averaged magnitude over the specified time.

[0193] By using time-averaged acceleration over a specified period, it is possible to suppress situations where conditions change frequently due to minute variations in acceleration.

[0194] <Technology A5>

[0195] In the vehicle control method described in technical A3 or A4, the specified direction is at least one of the left-right direction of the vehicle 1, the up-down direction of the vehicle 1, and the front-back direction of the vehicle 1.

[0196] Therefore, the conditions are switched appropriately based on the changes in acceleration of vehicle 1 in various directions.

[0197] <Technology A6>

[0198] In the vehicle control method described in any one of techniques A1 to A5, when the first condition is met, the display 100 displays the image 200 at the first size with the image center at the first position; then, when the second condition is met, the display 100 displays the image 200 at the second size with the image center at the second position; then, when the first condition is met, the display 100 displays the image 200 at the first size with the image center at the first position.

[0199] Therefore, the display 100 can display the image 200 in an appropriate manner according to the conditions, and can enable the occupants of the rear seat 22 to have access to the image and suppress motion sickness.

[0200] <Technology A7>

[0201] In any of the vehicle control methods described in techniques A1 to A6, when the second condition is met, the display 100 displays the image 200 at a second size smaller than the first size with the image center at a second position, and displays the image 200 at a third size smaller than the first size with the image center at a third position, the second position being to the left of the first position and the third position being to the right of the first position.

[0202] Therefore, when the second condition of being prone to motion sickness is met, the display on the monitor 100 shows an image smaller than when the first condition is met, thus further suppressing motion sickness in the occupants of the rear seat 22.

[0203] <Technology A8>

[0204] In any of the vehicle control methods described in A1 to A7, the vehicle 1 includes a seating position detection circuit (e.g., seating detection device 113) for detecting the seating position of an occupant in the rear seat 22, the second position corresponding to the seating position of the occupant.

[0205] Therefore, the image is displayed in a second position corresponding to the occupant seated in the rear seat 22, allowing the occupant in the rear seat 22 to view the image more directly. This further reduces motion sickness in the occupant of the rear seat 22.

[0206] <Technology A9>

[0207] In any of the vehicle control methods described in techniques A1 to A8, the second position is lower than the first position.

[0208] As a result, the occupants in the rear seat 22 can view the audiovisual images more directly. Therefore, motion sickness in the occupants of the rear seat 22 can be further suppressed.

[0209] <Technology A10>

[0210] In the vehicle control method described in any of A1 to A10, when the second condition is met, the display 100 displays the image 200 at the second size with the image center at the second position, and displays information indicating that the image has been intentionally reduced in size.

[0211] Therefore, the occupants in the rear seat 22 can understand why the image has been shrunk.

[0212] <Technology A11>

[0213] The vehicle 1 has at least a first wheel 3A connected to the vehicle body 2, a second wheel 2B connected to the vehicle body 2, a third wheel 3C connected to the vehicle body 2, and a fourth wheel 3D connected to the vehicle body 2, and is capable of traveling in a predetermined direction using the first wheel 3A, the second wheel 3B, the third wheel 3C, and the fourth wheel 3D. A display device is configured to be mounted on the vehicle 1.

[0214] The vehicle body 2 includes: a floor surface 11 and a roof surface 12 arranged along the predetermined orientation; a left side surface 13 connecting the floor surface 11 and the roof surface 12, arranged on the left side along the predetermined orientation; a right side surface 14 connecting the floor surface 11 and the roof surface 12, arranged on the right side along the predetermined orientation; a front surface 16 connecting the floor surface 11 and the roof surface 12, arranged at the front 15 in the predetermined orientation; a rear surface 18 connecting the floor surface 11 and the roof surface 12, arranged at the rear 17 in the predetermined orientation; at least one front seat 21 arranged on the floor surface 11 at a position closer to the front surface 16 than the rear surface 18; at least one rear seat 22 arranged on the floor surface 11 at a position closer to the rear surface 18 than the front surface 16; and a display 100 arranged between the rear seat 22 and the front seat 21.

[0215] As a display device, when the first condition is met, the display 100 displays the image 200 at a first size with the image center at a first position. When the second condition, which is different from the first condition, is met, the display 100 displays the image 200 (e.g., reduced images 201A and / or 201B) at a second size with the image center at a second position, which is smaller than the first size.

[0216] Therefore, the display 100 can display images in an appropriate manner according to the conditions, and can enable the occupants of the rear seat 22 to have access to visual and auditory images and suppress motion sickness.

[0217] <Technology A12>

[0218] In the display device described in technology A11, the second position is to the left of the first position, or the second position is to the right of the first position.

[0219] Therefore, when the second condition is met, the image is displayed to the left or right of the first position, allowing the occupants of the rear seat 22 to view the image more directly. This further reduces motion sickness in the rear seat occupants.

[0220] <Technology A13>

[0221] In the display device described in technical technology A11 or A12, the first condition is that the acceleration in the vehicle in relation to a predetermined direction is of a first magnitude, and the second condition is that the acceleration in the vehicle in relation to the predetermined direction is of a second magnitude greater than the first magnitude.

[0222] Therefore, when the second condition of being more prone to motion sickness is met, the display on the monitor 100 shows a smaller image than when the first condition is met, thus further suppressing motion sickness in the occupants of the rear seat 22.

[0223] <Technology A14>

[0224] In the display device described in technical technology A13, the first magnitude of the acceleration related to the predetermined direction is the time average magnitude over a predetermined time, and the second magnitude of the acceleration related to the predetermined direction is the time average magnitude over the predetermined time.

[0225] By using time-averaged acceleration over a specified period, it is possible to suppress situations where conditions change frequently due to minute variations in acceleration.

[0226] <Technology A15>

[0227] In the display device described in technical A13 or A14, the specified direction is at least one of the left-right direction of the vehicle 1, the up-down direction of the vehicle 1, and the front-back direction of the vehicle 1.

[0228] Therefore, the conditions are switched appropriately based on the changes in acceleration of vehicle 1 in various directions.

[0229] <Technology A16>

[0230] In any of the display devices described in A11 to A15, when the first condition is met, the display 100 displays the image 200 at the first size with the image center at the first position; then, when the second condition is met, the display 100 displays the image 200 at the second size with the image center at the second position; then, when the first condition is met, the display 100 displays the image 200 at the first size with the image center at the first position.

[0231] Therefore, the display 100 can display the image 200 in an appropriate manner according to the conditions, and can enable the occupants of the rear seat 22 to have access to the image and suppress motion sickness.

[0232] <Technology A17>

[0233] In the display device described in techniques A11 to A16, when the second condition is met, the display 100 displays the image 200 at a second size smaller than the first size with the image center at a second position, and displays the image 200 at a third size smaller than the first size with the image center at a third position, wherein the second position is to the left of the first position and the third position is to the right of the first position.

[0234] Therefore, when the second condition of being prone to motion sickness is met, the display on the monitor 100 shows an image smaller than when the first condition is met, thus further suppressing motion sickness in the occupants of the rear seat 22.

[0235] <Technology A18>

[0236] In the display device described in technologies A11 to A17, the vehicle 1 includes a seating position detection circuit (e.g., seating detection device 113) for detecting the seating position of an occupant in the rear seat 22, the second position corresponding to the seating position of the occupant.

[0237] Therefore, the image is displayed in a second position corresponding to the occupant seated in the rear seat 22, allowing the occupant in the rear seat 22 to view the image more directly. This further reduces motion sickness in the occupant of the rear seat 22.

[0238] <Technology A19>

[0239] In the display device described in any of A11 to A18, the second position is lower than the first position.

[0240] As a result, the occupants in the rear seat 22 can view the audiovisual images more directly. Therefore, motion sickness in the occupants of the rear seat 22 can be further suppressed.

[0241] <Technology A20>

[0242] In any of the display devices described in A11 to A20, when the second condition is met, the display 100 displays the image 200 at the second size with the image center at the second position, and displays information indicating that the image has been intentionally reduced in size.

[0243] Therefore, the occupants in the rear seat 22 can understand why the image has been shrunk.

[0244] (Implementation Method 2)

[0245] <The Process of Achieving the Invention>

[0246] Research is underway on installing displays inside vehicles so that rear-seat occupants can view and listen to videos. However, if occupants touch the displays or exert their weight on them, the displays could become dirty or damaged. Therefore, it is desirable to minimize occupant contact with the displays.

[0247] Patent Document 3 discloses the following: a display is equipped with a touchpad that detects contact, and if a contact that does not conform to normal operation is detected, a prescribed warning is displayed on the display. Patent Document 2 discloses the following: a camera is used to perform facial recognition on a person approaching the display, and if the person is identified as a person subject to warning, a prescribed warning is displayed on the display.

[0248] Patent Document 3 displays a warning upon contact with the display, failing to prevent contact with the display in the first place. Patent Document 2 displays a warning when a person approaches the display, thus unnecessarily displaying a warning in relatively confined spaces such as inside a car, where occupants are typically close to the display.

[0249] The purpose of this disclosure is to provide a technique for preventing occupants from touching displays installed inside a vehicle.

[0250] <Vehicle Structure>

[0251] Figure 12 The structure of the vehicle 1 according to Embodiment 2 is shown as a top view of the interior of the vehicle from above. Figure 13 The following is a structural example of the vehicle 1 according to Embodiment 2, shown as a side view of the interior of the vehicle from a transverse perspective. Figure 14 The diagram showing a structural example of the vehicle 1 according to Embodiment 2 is a view of the front from the rear seat 22 inside the vehicle. Next, referring to... Figure 12 , Figure 13 as well as Figure 14 The structure of vehicle 1 will be described.

[0252] In addition, for ease of explanation, such as Figure 12 as well as Figure 13 As shown, the length direction of vehicle 1 is set as the Y-axis, the width direction of vehicle 1 is set as the X-axis, and the height direction of vehicle 1 is set as the Z-axis.

[0253] Additionally, for ease of explanation, the positive direction of the Z-axis is sometimes referred to as "up," the negative direction as "down," the positive direction of the Y-axis as "front," the negative direction as "back," the positive direction of the X-axis as "right," and the negative direction as "left." Furthermore, these directional descriptions are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the actual orientation of the structure during use.

[0254] Vehicle 1 has at least a body 2, and a first wheel 3A, a second wheel 3B, a third wheel 3C, and a fourth wheel 3D connected to the body 2, and is capable of traveling in a predetermined direction (e.g., the direction of the Y-axis) using the first wheel 3A, the second wheel 3B, the third wheel 3C, and the fourth wheel 3D. However, vehicle 1 is not limited to a structure with four wheels, and may also have a structure with two, three, or more than five wheels. In addition, vehicle 1 may also be a private car, a commercial vehicle, a taxi, a truck, or a bus, etc.

[0255] The vehicle body 2 has a floor surface 11 and a roof surface 12 arranged along a prescribed orientation.

[0256] The vehicle body 2 includes: a left side face 13, which connects the floor face 11 and the roof face 12 and is arranged on the left side in a predetermined orientation; and a right side face 14, which connects the floor face 11 and the roof face 12 and is arranged on the right side in a predetermined orientation.

[0257] The vehicle body 2 includes: a front section 16 that connects the floor section 11 and the roof section 12 and is disposed in a predetermined orientation at the front section 15; and a rear section 18 that connects the floor section 11 and the roof section 12 and is disposed in a predetermined orientation at the rear section 17.

[0258] The vehicle body 2 includes: at least one front seat 21, which is located on the floor surface 11 at a position closer to the front part 16 than the rear part 18; and at least one rear seat 22, which is located on the floor surface 11 at a position closer to the rear part 18 than the front part 16.

[0259] The front part 16 is equipped with a front window 4, which allows the driver to visually inspect the outside of the vehicle from the front seat 21 in a specified orientation.

[0260] The vehicle body 2 also includes a rectangular transparent display 100 between the rear seat 22 and the front seat 21. The transparent display 100 can change the light transmittance of any area. Examples of the transparent display 100 include organic EL displays or LED displays. For instance, the transparent display 100 has a structure in which a liquid crystal shutter capable of controlling the light transmittance is superimposed on a light-transmitting self-emissive display panel (e.g., an organic EL panel). The transparent display 100 then sets the light transmittance of the liquid crystal shutter corresponding to an area where near-transparency is desired to be near 100%, and sets the light transmittance of the liquid crystal shutter corresponding to an area where near-light blocking is desired to be near 0%. Thus, the transparent display 100 can make any area nearly transparent or nearly light-blocked.

[0261] With the transparent display 100 in a transparent state, the occupants sitting in the rear seat 22 can visually confirm the outside of the vehicle through the transparent display 100 and the front window 4.

[0262] The transparent display 100 is configured to reproduce specified content. The content can be either moving images or still images. Alternatively, the content can be replaced with video. The occupants of the rear seat 22 can view and listen to the content displayed on the transparent display 100.

[0263] Vehicle 1 has an operating unit 102 located near the rear seat 22 inside the vehicle. The operating unit 102 may be a tablet terminal installed inside the vehicle. Alternatively, the operating unit 102 may be a structure that connects a passenger's smartphone to vehicle 1 via wired or wireless means. Alternatively, the operating unit 102 may also be used to operate an IVI device 114 (see reference). Figure 15 () remote control.

[0264] The transparent display 100, located between the rear seat 22 and the front seat 21, may be soiled or damaged by occupants intending to board or alight from the rear seat 22. Therefore, in this embodiment, a technique for preventing occupants intending to board or alight from the rear seat 22 from touching the transparent display 100 located between the rear seat 22 and the front seat 21 will be described. Furthermore, in the following description, occupants intending to board or alight from the rear seat 22 will be referred to as rear seat boarding / alighting occupants.

[0265] <Structure of the device>

[0266] Figure 15 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the device provided in the vehicle 1 according to Embodiment 2. Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of the first content 301 involved in Embodiment 2. Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram showing an image of a prescribed pattern as an example of the second content 302 involved in Embodiment 2. Figure 18 This is a schematic diagram showing an image of a swinging curtain, which is an example of the second content 302 involved in Embodiment 2. Figure 19 This is a schematic diagram showing an image of a wave-like water surface as an example of the second content 302 involved in Embodiment 2. Figure 20 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of an image of a grassland swaying in the wind, which is an example of the second content 302 involved in Embodiment 2. Figure 21 This is a schematic diagram showing an image of a cactus as an example of the second content 302 involved in Embodiment 2. Figure 22 This is a schematic diagram showing an image of a fish swimming in water, which is an example of the second content 302 involved in Embodiment 2. Figure 23 This is a schematic diagram showing an example of a cloud flow image, which is an example of the second content 302 involved in Embodiment 2.

[0267] like Figure 15As shown, vehicle 1 includes a communication device 111, a vehicle control device 112, a seating detection device 113, an IVI device 114, an image control device 115, and a transparent display 100. The communication device 111, vehicle control device 112, seating detection device 113, IVI device 114, and image control device 115 can send and receive information with each other via an in-vehicle network 110. Examples of in-vehicle networks 110 include Controller Area Network (CAN), Local Interconnect Network (LIN), and FlexRay.

[0268] Communication device 111 is a device that wirelessly communicates with other devices (such as servers or smartphones) through a defined communication network. Examples of communication networks include mobile communication networks (such as LTE, 4G, 5G, 6G, etc.), Wi-Fi (registered trademark), Bluetooth (registered trademark), etc.

[0269] The vehicle control device 112 is a device for controlling the behavior of the vehicle 1. For example, the vehicle control device 112 controls the starting and stopping of the vehicle 1, the opening and closing of the doors, and the turning on and off of the headlights. In addition, the vehicle control device 112 provides information indicating the status of the vehicle 1, such as starting and stopping, opening and closing of the doors, and turning on and off of the headlights. Furthermore, the vehicle control device 112 provides illuminance values ​​measured by an illuminance sensor (not shown) for measuring the illuminance outside or inside the vehicle.

[0270] The seating detection device 113 is used to detect whether an occupant is seated in any of the seats. For example, the seating detection device 113 can detect whether an occupant is seated using a weight sensor located in the seat. Alternatively, the seating detection device 113 can detect whether an occupant is seated based on whether the seatbelt is fastened. Or, the seating detection device 113 can detect whether an occupant is seated by performing person detection processing at the seat location based on images captured by a camera (not shown) installed in the vehicle.

[0271] IVI device 114 is a device that provides information and entertainment related to vehicle 1. IVI is an abbreviation for In-Vehicle Infotainment. For example, IVI device 114 outputs music and video from car audio systems, car DVDs, TV tuners, radios, VODs, etc. IVI device 114 can also be replaced by a control unit or electronic control unit (ECU). In addition, IVI device 114 may also have a processor and memory, etc.

[0272] The IVI device 114 searches for and outputs the path to the destination. The IVI device 114 can use built-in map data to search for the path to the destination, or it can use the communication device 111 to enable an external device to search for the path to the destination, acquire the search results, and output them. Furthermore, the path to the destination can be displayed to the driver as navigation or used as part of the vehicle 1's autonomous driving plan.

[0273] The IVI device 114 cooperates with the image control device 115 to control the display of content on the transparent display 100. The display of content involved in this embodiment will be described later.

[0274] The image control device 115 controls the display of content on the transparent display 100. The content can be either a still image or a moving image. Furthermore, the image control device 115 can control the light transmittance of any area of ​​the transparent display 100. The image control device 115 can control the display of content on the transparent display 100 and the transmittance of any area via control from the IVI device 114. Alternatively, a display device may include both the image control device 115 and the transparent display 100. Or, a display device may include the IVI device 114, the image control device 115, and the transparent display 100.

[0275] During the period when the occupants in the rear seat 22 are traveling, the transparent display 100 displays (reproduces) as follows: Figure 16 The first content 301 shown. The first content 301 is, for example, entertainment content for the occupants of the rear seat 22 to enjoy, or relaxation content for the occupants of the rear seat 22 to relax, etc.

[0276] In the event of a passenger boarding or alighting in the rear seat 22, the transparent display 100 displays a second content 302 that differs from the first content 301, and the first transmittance of the first display area 311 is greater than that of the first display area 311 (refer to...). Figure 17 The lower second display area 312 (refer to) Figure 17 The second content 302 can be displayed in the second display area 312. However, the second content 302 can also be displayed across the first display area 311 and the second display area 312. Additionally, the first content 301 can be displayed larger than the second content 302. However, the first content 301 can also be displayed smaller than the second content 302. The second content 302 is content that, when displayed on the transparent display 100, reduces the likelihood of rear-seat passengers touching the transparent display 100 when getting in and out of the vehicle.

[0277] For example, the transparent display 100 displays as Figure 17The image showing the prescribed pattern is used as the second content 302. For example, as the second content 302, the transparent display 100 displays an image as shown in the image. Figure 18 The image shown is of a swaying curtain, such as Figure 19 The image shown depicts a wave-like surface of water, and as... Figure 20 At least one of the images of a grassland swaying in the wind shown. For example, as the second content 302, the transparent display 100 can display, as shown in the image. Figure 21 The image of the cactus shown, such as Figure 22 The image shown depicts fish swimming in the water, and as... Figure 23 At least one of the images showing cloud movement.

[0278] Such Figures 17-23 The illustrated image could give rear-seat passengers getting in and out of the vehicle the impression that it's difficult to place their hands on it to apply weight (difficult to lean on). Therefore, by displaying such an image as secondary content 302 on the transparent display 100, it is possible to discourage rear-seat passengers from placing their hands on the transparent display 100 to maintain their postural balance. As a result, the likelihood of the transparent display 100 getting dirty or damaged can be reduced.

[0279] like Figure 17 As shown, the first display area 311 can be, for example, at least one-quarter of the area of ​​the transparent display 100 from top to bottom. The first transmittance can be the transmittance (e.g., transparency) of the scenery outside the vehicle as seen by the occupant through the transparent display 100 and the windshield 4. Thus, occupants getting in and out of the rear seat can observe the scenery inside and outside the vehicle at eye level, making it easier to maintain postural balance and preventing occupants from losing their postural balance and placing their hands on the transparent display 100.

[0280] like Figure 17 As shown, the second display area 312 can be, for example, at least one-quarter of the area of ​​a transparent display 100 from the bottom to the top. The second transmittance can be a transmittance that allows for good visual confirmation of the second content 302 (e.g., non-transparent or light-blocking). Therefore, the likelihood of rear-seat passengers hesitating to touch the transparent display 100 after seeing the image of the second content 302 displayed in the second display area 312 increases, thus suppressing the possibility of rear-seat passengers intentionally or unintentionally touching the transparent display 100.

[0281] like Figure 14 and Figure 17 As shown, when a rear-seat passenger gets on or off the vehicle, the transparent display 100 can display information indicating the position of the armrest 31 in the second content 302. This increases the likelihood that a rear-seat passenger getting on or off the vehicle will identify the position of the armrest 31 and grasp it, thus reducing the likelihood that the rear-seat passenger will place their hand on the transparent display 100.

[0282] like Figure 14 and Figure 17 As shown, at least a portion of the second content 302 can provide the function of illumination 303. This illumination 303 can be provided when the illuminance outside and / or inside the vehicle is below a predetermined threshold. For example, the transparent display 100 provides the function of illumination 303 by displaying white or a color with high brightness and chroma in at least a portion of the second content 302. Thus, the area near the feet becomes brighter due to the function of illumination 303, making it easier for rear-seat passengers getting in and out of the vehicle to maintain their posture and preventing them from losing their balance and placing their hands on the transparent display 100.

[0283] In the event of a passenger boarding or alighting in the rear seat 22, the transparent display 100 can display a message 304 facing the passenger in the rear seat 22 in the second content 302. The message 304 for boarding and the message 304 for alighting can be different.

[0284] As an example of a 304 boarding message, the following message can be given. Furthermore, one or more 304 boarding messages can be displayed.

[0285] • A greeting appropriate to the current time, such as "Good morning" or "Good evening".

[0286] • Messages containing the passenger's name, such as "Hello Mr. / Ms. 00".

[0287] • Messages that prompt attention, such as "Watch your step".

[0288] • Messages of gratitude such as "Thank you for riding with us often"

[0289] • Messages indicating future bookings and traffic information for passengers, such as "30 minutes to destination. No traffic congestion."

[0290] • Messages encouraging relaxation, such as "Please take it easy".

[0291] • Messages indicating the vehicle's destination, such as "This is a vehicle heading to the ○○ area".

[0292] As an example of a 304 message for getting off the bus, the following message can be given. Furthermore, one or multiple 304 messages for getting off the bus can be displayed.

[0293] • Messages such as "We have arrived at our destination" are used to communicate arrival to the passengers.

[0294] • Messages containing the passenger's name, such as "Arrived at Mr. / Ms. ○○'s residence".

[0295] • Messages indicating future bookings for passengers, such as "The reservation at this destination is for dining with Mr. / Ms. 00".

[0296] • Messages that prompt attention, such as "Watch your step".

[0297] • Weather messages such as "It's raining outside"

[0298] • Messages of thanks such as "Please use it again"

[0299] <Processing Flow>

[0300] Figure 24 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the situation determination process involved in Implementation 2.

[0301] IVI device 114 determines whether it can obtain the schedule information of the rear seat passenger getting on and off the bus (S101). For example, if the rear seat passenger gives permission, IVI device 114 obtains the schedule information of the rear seat passenger getting on and off the bus from a designated server or cloud service that manages the schedule information of the rear seat passenger getting on and off the bus via communication device 111.

[0302] If the schedule information of passengers getting on and off the back seat cannot be obtained (S101: "No"), proceed with entry. Figure 25 Process B is shown. If the schedule information of passengers getting on and off the back seat can be obtained (S101: "Yes"), the next process is performed.

[0303] The IVI device 114 obtains at least one of the scheduled boarding location and scheduled boarding time, and the scheduled alighting location and scheduled alighting time for rear-seat passengers from the acquired schedule information (S102). For example, if the schedule information includes a departure point and a destination, the IVI device 114 sets the departure point as the scheduled boarding location and the destination as the scheduled alighting location. Similarly, if the schedule information includes a departure time and an arrival time, the IVI device 114 sets the departure time as the scheduled boarding time and the arrival time as the scheduled alighting time.

[0304] IVI device 114 acquires the current position and current time of vehicle 1 (S103). For example, IVI device 114 determines the current position and current time of vehicle 1 from the car navigation system.

[0305] The IVI device 114 compares at least one of the predetermined boarding position and predetermined boarding time, and the predetermined alighting position and predetermined alighting time obtained in step S101, with the current position and current time of vehicle 1 obtained in step S103 to determine the current status of vehicle 1 (S104). For example, (a) if the current position of vehicle 1 is closer to the predetermined boarding position, or if the current time is earlier than the predetermined boarding time, the IVI device 114 determines the current status of vehicle 1 as "before the predetermined boarding position". For example, (b) if the current position of vehicle 1 is between the predetermined boarding position and the predetermined alighting position, or if the current time is between the predetermined boarding time and the predetermined alighting time, the IVI device 114 determines the current status of vehicle 1 as "the period from boarding to alighting". For example, if neither (a) nor (b) above is met, the IVI device 114 determines the current status of vehicle 1 as "after the predetermined alighting position or no predetermined alighting position".

[0306] In step S104, if the current status of vehicle 1 is determined to be "disembarkation scheduled or not scheduled", then the process proceeds to... Figure 25 Process B is shown.

[0307] If the current status of vehicle 1 is determined to be "before boarding" in step S104, the next step is performed. That is, the IVI device 114 determines whether vehicle 1 has arrived at the predetermined boarding position (S111). If the IVI device 114 determines that vehicle 1 has arrived at the predetermined boarding position (S111: "Yes"), it performs the boarding process (S112), returning the process to step S101. Further details regarding the boarding process will be described later (see [reference]). Figure 26 If the IVI device 114 determines that the vehicle 1 has not arrived at the predetermined boarding position (S111: "No"), the process returns to step S101.

[0308] If, in step S104, the current state of vehicle 1 is determined to be "the period from boarding to disembarking," the next step is performed. That is, the IVI device 114 determines whether vehicle 1 has reached the predetermined disembarking position (S121). If the IVI device 114 determines that vehicle 1 has reached the predetermined disembarking position (S121: "Yes"), it performs the disembarking procedure (S112), returning the process to step S101. Further details regarding the disembarking procedure will be described later (see [reference]). Figure 27 If the IVI device 114 determines that the vehicle 1 has not reached the predetermined drop-off position (S121: "No"), the process returns to step S101.

[0309] Figure 25 It is shown Figure 24 The flowchart shows an example of a subsequent process B.

[0310] The IVI device 114 determines whether the occupant is seated in the rear seat 22 based on the detection results of the seating detection device 113 (S130).

[0311] If it is determined in step S130 that the passenger is not seated in the rear seat 22 (S130: "No"), the following process is implemented.

[0312] The IVI device 114 determines whether the vehicle 1 is in a parked state based on information obtained from the vehicle control device 112 (S131). For example, the IVI device 114 determines that the vehicle 1 is in a parked state when the speed of the vehicle 1 is 0, when the gear shift lever is engaged, and / or when the parking brake is engaged.

[0313] If it is determined that vehicle 1 is not in a parked state (S131: "No"), IVI device 114 returns the processing to Figure 24 The process shown is A (i.e., step S101).

[0314] If it is determined that vehicle 1 is in a parked state (S131: "Yes"), IVI device 114 determines the rear door 23 (see reference) based on information obtained from the vehicle control device. Figure 14 Is it open (S132)?

[0315] If it is determined that the rear seat door 23 is not open (S132: "No"), the IVI device 114 returns the process to Figure 24 The process shown is A (i.e., step S101).

[0316] If it is determined that the rear seat door 23 is open (S132: "Yes"), the IVI device 114 performs the boarding process (S133), returning the process to Figure 24 Process A (i.e., step S101) is shown. Further details regarding the vehicle loading process will be described later (see [reference]). Figure 26 ).

[0317] That is, when the vehicle 1 is parked and the rear door 23 is open, even if the passenger is not seated in the rear seat 22, the IVI device 114 determines that the passenger has boarded the vehicle in the rear seat 22 and performs the boarding process.

[0318] If it is determined in step S130 that the passenger is seated in the rear seat 22 (S130: "Yes"), the next process is implemented.

[0319] IVI device 114 determines whether vehicle 1 is in a parked state based on information obtained from vehicle control device 112 (S141).

[0320] If it is determined that vehicle 1 is not in a parked state (S141: "No"), IVI device 114 returns the processing to Figure 24 The process shown is A (i.e., step S101).

[0321] If the vehicle 1 is determined to be in a parked state (S141: "Yes"), the IVI device 114 determines whether the rear door 23 is open based on the information obtained from the vehicle control device (S132).

[0322] If it is determined that the rear seat door 23 is not open (S142: "No"), the IVI device 114 returns the process to Figure 24 The process shown is A (i.e., step S101).

[0323] If it is determined that the rear seat door 23 is open (S142: "Yes"), the IVI device 114 performs the exit procedure (S143), returning the procedure to the previous state. Figure 24 Process A (i.e., step S101) is shown. Further details regarding the disembarkation process will be described later (see [reference]). Figure 27 ).

[0324] That is, when the occupant is seated in the rear seat 22, and the vehicle 1 stops and the rear door 23 is opened, the IVI device 114 determines that the occupant in the rear seat 22 has disembarked and performs the disembarkation process.

[0325] <Boarding Process>

[0326] Figure 26 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the vehicle loading process according to Embodiment 2. This vehicle loading process... Figure 24 The steps S112 or shown Figure 25 It is invoked in step S133 shown.

[0327] IVI device 114 stops at the transparent display 100 reproducing the first content 301 (S201).

[0328] The IVI device 114 makes the first light transmittance of the first display area 311 in the transparent display 100 greater than the second light transmittance of the second display area 312. For example, the IVI device 114 makes the first display area 311 in the transparent display 100 transparent (S202).

[0329] The IVI device 114 displays the position of the boarding information 304 and the handrail 31 as secondary content on the transparent display 100 (S203).

[0330] IVI device 114 determines whether it is dark outside or inside the vehicle (S204). For example, if the illuminance value measured by the illuminance sensor installed outside or inside the vehicle is less than a predetermined threshold, IVI device 114 determines it to be dark; if the illuminance value is above the threshold, it determines it to be bright. Alternatively, IVI device 114 determines it to be dark when the headlights of vehicle 1 are on, and determines it to be bright when the headlights are off. Furthermore, the headlights can be switched on / off manually by the driver, or automatically based on the illuminance value from the illuminance sensor. Alternatively, IVI device 114 can also determine it to be dark (i.e., nighttime) if the current time is within a preset nighttime period, and determine it to be bright (i.e., not nighttime) if the current time is not within that nighttime period.

[0331] If it is determined that the outside or inside of the vehicle is bright (S204: "No"), the IVI device 114 displays the image of the second content 302 brightly in the second display area 312 (e.g., the light-blocking area) of the transparent display 100 (S205). Then, the process proceeds to step S210.

[0332] If it is determined that the outside or inside of the vehicle is dark (S204: "Yes"), the IVI device 114 activates the illumination 303 as the second content 302 (S206). Then, the IVI device 114 dimly displays the image of the second content 302 in the second display area 312 (e.g., the light-blocking area) of the transparent display 100 (S207). Then, the process proceeds to step S210.

[0333] As in step S210, the IVI device 114 determines whether the occupant has successfully boarded the vehicle in the rear seat 22 (S210). For example, if the IVI device 114 detects that the open rear seat door 23 is closed based on information obtained from the vehicle control device 112, it determines that the occupant has successfully boarded the vehicle in the rear seat 22. For example, if the seating detection device 113 detects that the occupant is seated in the rear seat 22, the IVI device 114 determines that the occupant has successfully boarded the vehicle in the rear seat 22. For example, if the seating detection device 113 detects that the occupant is wearing a seatbelt in the rear seat 22, the IVI device 114 determines that the occupant has successfully boarded the vehicle in the rear seat.

[0334] If it is determined that the passenger has not completed boarding in the rear seat 22 (S210: "No"), the IVI device 114 repeatedly performs the process of step S210. If it is determined that the passenger has completed boarding in the rear seat 22 (S210: "Yes"), the next process is implemented.

[0335] IVI device 114 sets the second content 302 that is being displayed on transparent display 100 to not be displayed (S211).

[0336] The IVI device 114 restores the transparent state of the transparent display 100 to the original state when the first content 301 was reproduced (S212).

[0337] IVI device 114 resumes displaying the first content 301 on transparent display 100 (S213).

[0338] Then, once the onboarding process is complete, it returns to the processing of the calling source. Figure 24 Step S112 or Figure 25 (Processing after step S133).

[0339] <Disembarkation Process>

[0340] Figure 27 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the vehicle abortion process according to Embodiment 2. This vehicle abortion process... Figure 24 The steps S122 or shown Figure 25 It is invoked in step S143 shown.

[0341] IVI device 114 stops at the transparent display 100 reproducing the first content 301 (S301).

[0342] The IVI device 114 makes the first light transmittance of the first display area 311 in the transparent display 100 greater than the second light transmittance of the second display area 312. For example, the IVI device 114 makes the first display area in the transparent display 100 transparent (S302).

[0343] The IVI device 114 displays the exit message 304 and the position of the handrail 31 as a second content 302 on the transparent display (S303).

[0344] IVI device 114 determines whether it is dark outside or inside the vehicle (S304).

[0345] If it is determined that the outside or inside of the vehicle is bright (S304: "No"), the IVI device 114 displays the image of the second content 302 brightly in the second display area 312 (e.g., the light-blocking area) of the transparent display 100 (S305). Furthermore, the image of the second content 302 when getting out of the vehicle may be the same as or different from the image of the second content 302 when getting in the vehicle. Then, the process proceeds to step S310.

[0346] If it is determined that the outside or inside of the vehicle is dark (S304: "Yes"), the IVI device 114 activates the illumination 303 as the second content 302 (S206). Then, the IVI device 114 dimly displays the image of the second content 302 in the second display area 312 (e.g., the light-blocking area) of the transparent display 100 (S207). Then, the process proceeds to step S310.

[0347] As in step S310, the IVI device 114 determines whether the occupant has finished disembarking from the rear seat 22 (S210). For example, if the IVI device 114 detects that the open rear seat door 23 has closed based on information obtained from the vehicle control device 112, it determines that the occupant has finished disembarking from the rear seat 22. For example, if the seating detection device 113 detects that the seating status of the rear seat 22 has changed from a detected state to an undetected state, the IVI device 114 determines that the occupant has finished disembarking from the rear seat 22. For example, if the seating detection device 113 detects that the occupant has changed from wearing the seat belt to not wearing the seat belt, the IVI device 114 determines that the occupant has finished disembarking from the rear seat 22.

[0348] If it is determined that the passenger has not completed disembarking from the rear seat 22 (S310: "No"), the IVI device 114 repeatedly performs the processing step S310. If it is determined that the passenger has completed disembarking from the rear seat 22 (S310: "Yes"), the next processing is performed.

[0349] IVI device 114 sets the second content 302 that is being displayed on transparent display 100 to not be displayed (S311).

[0350] The IVI device 114 restores the transparent state of the transparent display 100 to the original state when the first content 301 was reproduced (S312).

[0351] IVI device 114 resumes displaying the first content 301 on transparent display 100 (S313).

[0352] Then, once this process is complete, it returns to the processing of the calling source. Figure 24 Step S122 or Figure 25 (Processing after step S143).

[0353] (Summary of Implementation Method 2)

[0354] Based on the description of Embodiment 2 above, the following technology is disclosed.

[0355] <Technology B1>

[0356] The vehicle 1 has at least a first wheel 3A connected to the vehicle body 2, a second wheel 3B connected to the vehicle body 2, a third wheel 3C connected to the vehicle body 2, and a fourth wheel 3D connected to the vehicle body 2, and is able to use the first wheel 3A, the second wheel 3B, the third wheel 3C, and the fourth wheel 3D to travel in a predetermined direction.

[0357] The vehicle body 2 includes: a floor surface 11 and a roof surface 12 arranged along the predetermined orientation; a left side surface 13 connecting the floor surface 11 and the roof surface 12, arranged on the left side along the predetermined orientation; a right side surface 14 connecting the floor surface 11 and the roof surface 12, arranged on the right side along the predetermined orientation; a front surface 16 connecting the floor surface 11 and the roof surface 12, arranged at the front 15 in the predetermined orientation; a rear surface 18 connecting the floor surface 11 and the roof surface 12, arranged at the rear 17 in the predetermined orientation; at least one front seat 21 arranged on the floor surface 11 at a position closer to the front surface 16 than the rear surface; at least one rear seat 22 arranged on the floor surface 11 at a position closer to the rear surface 18 than the front surface 16; and a transparent display 100 with variable light transmittance, arranged between the rear seat 22 and the front seat 21.

[0358] As a vehicle control method in the vehicle 1, during the period when the occupants of the rear seat 22 are riding, the transparent display 100 displays first content 301. When the occupants of the rear seat 22 get on or off the vehicle, the transparent display 100 displays second content 302 that is different from the first content 301, and the first light transmittance of the first display area 311 is greater than the second light transmittance of the second display area 312 that is located below the first display area 311.

[0359] Therefore, passengers getting in and out of the vehicle in the back seat can visually confirm the outside or inside of the vehicle through the first display area 311 of the transparent display 100, which has a relatively high light transmittance. This makes it easier to maintain posture balance and can prevent passengers getting in and out of the vehicle in the back seat from losing their posture balance and placing their hands on the transparent display 100.

[0360] <Technology B2>

[0361] In the vehicle control method described in Technique B1, the second content 302 is displayed in the second display area 312.

[0362] Therefore, the second content 302 is displayed in the second display area 312 with relatively low light transmittance, so that passengers getting in and out of the rear seat can clearly see and confirm the second content 302.

[0363] <Technology B3>

[0364] In the vehicle control method described in technology B1 or B2, at least a portion of the second content 302 provides the function of lighting 303.

[0365] As a result, the feet of passengers getting in and out of the rear seat are illuminated by the lighting 303, making it easier for them to maintain their balance and preventing them from losing their balance and placing their hands on the transparent display 100.

[0366] <Technology B4>

[0367] In the vehicle control method described in Technique B3, the illumination 303 is provided when the illuminance outside and / or inside the vehicle is below a predetermined threshold.

[0368] Thus, in situations where it is relatively dark outside and / or inside the vehicle, the footsteps of rear seat passengers getting in and out are illuminated by the function of lighting 303.

[0369] <Technology B5>

[0370] In any of the vehicle control methods described in techniques B1 to B4, when an occupant of the rear seat 22 gets on or off the vehicle, the transparent display 100 displays a message 304 facing the occupant of the rear seat 22 in the second content 302.

[0371] Thus, passengers getting in and out of the rear seat can visually confirm the message 304 displayed on the transparent display 100.

[0372] <Technology B6>

[0373] In any of the vehicle control methods described in techniques B1 to B5, when an occupant of the rear seat 22 gets on or off the vehicle, the transparent display 100 displays information indicating the position of the armrest 31 in the second content 302.

[0374] As a result, the likelihood of passengers getting on and off the vehicle from the rear seat grabbing the handrail 31 is increased, which can suppress the situation where passengers getting on and off the vehicle from the rear seat intentionally or unintentionally touch the transparent display 100.

[0375] <Technology B7>

[0376] In any of the vehicle control methods described in techniques B1 to B6, when an occupant of the rear seat 22 gets on or off the vehicle, the transparent display 100 displays a predetermined pattern in the second content 302.

[0377] Therefore, passengers getting on and off the vehicle in the back seat can visually confirm the transparent display 100, which displays a prescribed pattern as the second content 302, thereby preventing passengers getting on and off the vehicle in the back seat from intentionally or unintentionally touching the transparent display 100.

[0378] <Technology B8>

[0379] In any of the vehicle control methods described in techniques B1 to B6, when an occupant of the rear seat 22 gets on or off the vehicle, the transparent display 100 displays in the second content 302 at least one of a swaying curtain, a wavering surface of water, and a grassland swaying in the wind.

[0380] This second content 302 gives the impression that passengers getting in and out of the rear seat have difficulty leaning on it, thus preventing passengers getting in and out of the rear seat from placing their hands on the transparent display 100 and leaning on the transparent display 100.

[0381] <Technology B9>

[0382] In any of the vehicle control methods described in techniques B1 to B8, the vehicle 1 includes a control unit (e.g., an IVI device 114) that determines the boarding and alighting of the occupants of the rear seat 22 based on their schedule information.

[0383] This allows us to distinguish between passengers who board and disembark.

[0384] <Technology B10>

[0385] In any of the vehicle control methods described in techniques B1 to B9, the transparent display 100 resumes displaying the first content 301 after the occupant of the rear seat 22 has finished getting on or off the vehicle.

[0386] Therefore, the transparent display 100 can resume displaying the first content 301 after the passenger has finished getting on or off the vehicle, once the display has switched from the first content 301 to the second content 302.

[0387] <Technology B11>

[0388] The vehicle 1 has at least a first wheel 3A connected to the vehicle body 2, a second wheel 3B connected to the vehicle body 2, a third wheel 3C connected to the vehicle body 2, and a fourth wheel 3D connected to the vehicle body 2, and is capable of traveling in a predetermined direction using the first wheel 3A, the second wheel 3B, the third wheel 3C, and the fourth wheel 3D. A display device is configured to be mounted on the vehicle 1.

[0389] The vehicle body 2 includes: a floor surface 11 and a roof surface 12 arranged along the predetermined orientation; a left side surface 13 connecting the floor surface 11 and the roof surface 12, arranged along the predetermined orientation on the left side; a right side surface 14 connecting the floor surface 11 and the roof surface 12, arranged along the predetermined orientation on the right side; a front surface 16 connecting the floor surface 11 and the roof surface 12, arranged in the predetermined orientation at the front 15; a rear surface 18 connecting the floor surface 11 and the roof surface 12, arranged in the predetermined orientation at the rear 17; at least one front seat 21 arranged on the floor surface 11 at a position closer to the front surface 16 than the rear surface 18; at least one rear seat 22 arranged on the floor surface 11 at a position closer to the rear surface 18 than the front surface 16; and a transparent display 100 with variable light transmittance, arranged between the rear seat 22 and the front seat 21.

[0390] As a display device, the transparent display 100 displays first content 301 while the occupants of the rear seat 22 are riding in the vehicle. When the occupants of the rear seat 22 get on or off the vehicle, the transparent display 100 displays second content 302 that is different from the first content 301, and the first light transmittance of the first display area 311 is greater than the second light transmittance of the second display area 312 that is located below the first display area 311.

[0391] Therefore, passengers getting in and out of the vehicle in the back seat can visually confirm the outside or inside of the vehicle through the first display area 311 of the transparent display 100, which has a relatively high light transmittance. This makes it easier to maintain posture balance and can prevent passengers getting in and out of the vehicle in the back seat from losing their posture balance and placing their hands on the transparent display 100.

[0392] <Technology B12>

[0393] In the display device of technology B11, the second content 302 is displayed in the second display area 312.

[0394] Therefore, the second content 302 is displayed in the second display area 312 with relatively low light transmittance, so that passengers getting in and out of the rear seat can clearly see and confirm the second content 302.

[0395] <Technology B13>

[0396] In the display device described in technology B11 or B12, at least a portion of the second content 302 provides the function of illumination 303.

[0397] As a result, the feet of passengers getting in and out of the rear seat are illuminated by the lighting 303, making it easier for them to maintain their balance and preventing them from losing their balance and placing their hands on the transparent display 100.

[0398] <Technology B14>

[0399] In the display device described in technology B13, the illumination 303 is provided when the illuminance outside and / or inside the vehicle is below a predetermined threshold.

[0400] Thus, in situations where it is relatively dark outside and / or inside the vehicle, the footsteps of rear seat passengers getting in and out are illuminated by the function of lighting 303.

[0401] <Technology B15>

[0402] In any of the display devices described in technologies B11 to B14, when an occupant of the rear seat 22 gets on or off the vehicle, the transparent display 100 displays a message 304 facing the occupant of the rear seat 22 in the second content 302.

[0403] Thus, passengers getting in and out of the rear seat can visually confirm the message 304 displayed on the transparent display 100.

[0404] <Technology B16>

[0405] In any of the display devices described in technologies B11 to B15, when an occupant of the rear seat 22 gets on or off the vehicle, the transparent display 100 displays information indicating the position of the armrest 31 in the second content 302.

[0406] As a result, the likelihood of passengers getting on and off the vehicle from the rear seat grabbing the handrail 31 is increased, which can suppress the situation where passengers getting on and off the vehicle from the rear seat intentionally or unintentionally touch the transparent display 100.

[0407] <Technology B17>

[0408] In any of the display devices described in technologies B11 to B16, when an occupant of the rear seat 22 gets on or off the vehicle, the transparent display 100 displays a predetermined pattern in the second content 302.

[0409] Therefore, passengers getting on and off the vehicle in the back seat can visually confirm the transparent display 100, which displays a prescribed pattern as the second content 302, thereby preventing passengers getting on and off the vehicle in the back seat from intentionally or unintentionally touching the transparent display 100.

[0410] <Technology B18>

[0411] In the display device according to any one of art B11 to B16, in the event of an occupant of the rear seat 22 getting on or off the vehicle, the transparent display 100 displays in the second content at least one of a swaying curtain, a wavering water surface, and a grassland swaying in the wind.

[0412] This second content 302 gives the impression that passengers getting in and out of the rear seat have difficulty leaning on it, thus preventing passengers getting in and out of the rear seat from placing their hands on the transparent display 100 and leaning on the transparent display 100.

[0413] <Technology B19>

[0414] In any of the display devices described in technologies B11 to B18, the vehicle 1 includes a control unit (e.g., IVI device 114) that determines the boarding and alighting of the occupants of the rear seat 22 based on their schedule information.

[0415] This allows us to distinguish between passengers who board and disembark.

[0416] <Technology B20>

[0417] In any of the display devices described in technologies B11 to B19, the transparent display 100 resumes displaying the first content 301 after the occupant of the rear seat 22 has finished getting on or off the vehicle.

[0418] Therefore, the transparent display 100 can resume displaying the first content 301 after the passenger has finished getting on or off the vehicle, once the display has switched from the first content 301 to the second content 302.

[0419] The embodiments have been described above with reference to the accompanying drawings, but this disclosure is not limited to the specific examples. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that various modifications, alterations, substitutions, additions, deletions, and equivalents can be conceived within the scope of the claims, and will understand that they also fall within the protection scope of this disclosure. Furthermore, the constituent elements in the above embodiments can be arbitrarily combined without departing from the spirit of the invention.

[0420] Furthermore, this application is based on Japanese patent applications filed on August 9, 2023 (Japanese Patent Application No. 2023-130287 and Japanese Patent Application No. 2023-130288), the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0421] Industrial availability

[0422] The technology disclosed herein is useful for vehicles equipped with in-vehicle displays.

[0423] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0424] 1: Vehicle;

[0425] 2: Vehicle body;

[0426] 3A: First wheel;

[0427] 3B: Second wheel;

[0428] 3C: The third wheel;

[0429] 3D: The Fourth Wheel;

[0430] 4: Front window;

[0431] 11: Floor surface;

[0432] 12: Ceiling surface;

[0433] 13: Left side of the face;

[0434] 14: Right side of the face;

[0435] 15: Front part;

[0436] 16: Front part;

[0437] 17: Rear part;

[0438] 18: Back of the face;

[0439] 21, 21A, 21B: Front seats;

[0440] 22, 22A, 22B: Rear seat;

[0441] 31: Handrail;

[0442] 100: Monitor;

[0443] 101: Speaker;

[0444] 102: Operations Department;

[0445] 110: Vehicle network;

[0446] 111: Communication device;

[0447] 112: Vehicle control device;

[0448] 113: Seating detection device;

[0449] 114: IVI device;

[0450] 115: Image control device;

[0451] 116; Audio control device;

[0452] 200: Image;

[0453] 201A, 201B: Reduced image;

[0454] 202: Background image;

[0455] 210A, 210B: Central axis;

[0456] 301: First Content;

[0457] 302: Second content;

[0458] 303: Lighting;

[0459] 304: Message;

[0460] 311: First display area;

[0461] 312: Second display area.

Claims

1. A vehicle control method that is a vehicle control method in a vehicle that has at least: a first wheel linked to a vehicle body; a second wheel linked to the vehicle body; a third wheel linked to the vehicle body; and a fourth wheel linked to the vehicle body, the vehicle being able to travel in a prescribed direction using the first wheel, the second wheel, the third wheel, and the fourth wheel, the vehicle body having: a floor surface portion and a ceiling surface portion disposed along the prescribed direction; a left side surface portion connecting the floor surface portion and the ceiling surface portion and disposed on a left side surface along the prescribed direction; a right side surface portion connecting the floor surface portion and the ceiling surface portion and disposed on a right side surface along the prescribed direction; a front surface portion connecting the floor surface portion and the ceiling surface portion and disposed on a front portion in the prescribed direction; a rear surface portion connecting the floor surface portion and the ceiling surface portion and disposed on a rear portion in the prescribed direction; at least one front seat disposed on the floor surface portion at a position closer to the front portion than to the rear portion; at least one rear seat disposed on the floor surface portion at a position closer to the rear portion than to the front portion; and a display disposed between the rear seat and the front seat, in the vehicle control method, when a first condition is satisfied, the display displays an image in a first size with an image center at a first position, and when a second condition different from the first condition is satisfied, the display displays the image in a second size smaller than the first size with an image center at a second position.

2. The vehicle control method according to claim 1, wherein the second position is closer to the left side than the first position, or the second position is closer to the right side than the first position.

3. The vehicle control method according to claim 1, wherein the first condition is that an acceleration related to a prescribed direction in the vehicle is a first size, and the second condition is that the acceleration related to the prescribed direction in the vehicle is a second size greater than the first size.

4. The vehicle control method according to claim 3, wherein the first size of the acceleration related to the prescribed direction is a time average of a prescribed time, and the second size of the acceleration related to the prescribed direction is a time average of the prescribed time.

5. The vehicle control method according to claim 3, wherein the prescribed direction is at least one of a left-right direction of the vehicle, an up-down direction of the vehicle, and a front-rear direction of the vehicle.

6. The vehicle control method according to claim 1, wherein when the first condition is satisfied, the display displays the image in the first size with the image center at the first position, and then when the second condition is satisfied, the display displays the image in the second size with the image center at the second position. wherein ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Next, in a case where the first condition is satisfied, the display displays the video at the first size with the video center at the first position.

7. The vehicle control method according to claim 1, wherein in a case where the second condition is satisfied, the display displays the video at a second size smaller than the first size with the video center at a second position, and displays the video at a third size smaller than the first size with the video center at a third position, the second position being on a left side of the first position, the third position being on a right side of the first position.

8. The vehicle control method according to claim 1, wherein the vehicle is provided with a seating position detection circuit that detects a seating position of an occupant on the rear seat, the second position corresponds to the seating position of the occupant.

9. The vehicle control method according to claim 1, wherein the second position is on a lower side of the first position.

10. The vehicle control method according to claim 1, wherein in a case where the second condition is satisfied, the display displays the video at the second size with the video center at the second position, and displays information indicating that the video is intentionally reduced.

11. A display device configured to be mounted on a vehicle, the vehicle at least including: a first wheel linked to a vehicle body; a second wheel linked to the vehicle body; a third wheel linked to the vehicle body; and a fourth wheel linked to the vehicle body, the vehicle being able to travel in a prescribed direction using the first wheel, the second wheel, the third wheel, and the fourth wheel, wherein the vehicle body having: a floor surface portion and a ceiling surface portion arranged along the prescribed direction; a left side surface portion connecting the floor surface portion and the ceiling surface portion, arranged on a left side along the prescribed direction; a right side surface portion connecting the floor surface portion and the ceiling surface portion, arranged on a right side along the prescribed direction; a front surface portion connecting the floor surface portion and the ceiling surface portion, arranged on a front portion in the prescribed direction; a rear surface portion connecting the floor surface portion and the ceiling surface portion, arranged on a rear portion in the prescribed direction; at least one front seat arranged on the floor surface portion at a position closer to the front portion than to the rear portion; at least one rear seat arranged on the floor surface portion at a position closer to the rear portion than to the front portion; and a display arranged between the rear seat and the front seat, in a case where a first condition is satisfied, the display displays a video at a first size with a video center at a first position, in a case where a second condition different from the first condition is satisfied, the display displays the video at a second size smaller than the first size with a video center at a second position.

12. The display device according to claim 11, wherein the second position is on a left side of the first position, or the second position is on a right side of the first position.

13. The display device according to claim 11, wherein ​ the first condition is that an acceleration in the vehicle in relation to a prescribed direction is a first magnitude, the second condition is that the acceleration in the vehicle in relation to the prescribed direction is a second magnitude greater than the first magnitude.

14. The display device according to claim 13, wherein the first magnitude of the acceleration in relation to the prescribed direction is a time average of a prescribed time, the second magnitude of the acceleration in relation to the prescribed direction is a time average of the prescribed time.

15. The display device according to claim 13, wherein the prescribed direction is at least one of a left-right direction of the vehicle, an up-down direction of the vehicle, and a front-rear direction of the vehicle.

16. The display device according to claim 11, wherein in a case where the first condition is satisfied, the display displays the image in the first magnitude with the image center in the first position, then, in a case where the second condition is satisfied, the display displays the image in the second magnitude with the image center in a second position, then, in a case where the first condition is satisfied, the display displays the image in the first magnitude with the image center in the first position.

17. The display device according to claim 11, wherein in a case where the second condition is satisfied, the display displays the image in a second magnitude smaller than the first magnitude with the image center in a second position on a left side of the first position, and displays the image in a third magnitude smaller than the first magnitude with the image center in a third position on a right side of the first position.

18. The display device according to claim 11, wherein the vehicle is provided with a seating position detection circuit that detects a seating position of an occupant on the rear seat, the second position corresponds to the seating position of the occupant.

19. The display device according to claim 11, wherein the second position is on a lower side of the first position.

20. The display device according to claim 11, wherein in a case where the second condition is satisfied, the display displays the image in the second magnitude with the image center in a second position, and displays information indicating that the image is intentionally reduced.

Images