Vehicle control device, vehicle control method, and vehicle

Abstract

The invention relates to a vehicle control apparatus, a vehicle control method, and a vehicle. A vehicle control device (10) is provided with: an information acquisition unit that acquires information pertaining to drawing performed directly or indirectly by an occupant taking a vehicle; and a control unit (30) that projects the drawing-related information acquired by the information acquisition unit onto a predetermined area inside the vehicle or displays the information on at least one display device mounted on the vehicle.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a vehicle control device, a vehicle control method, and a vehicle. Background Technology

[0002] Previously, various inventions for customizing vehicle interiors were known (e.g., Patent Documents 1-2). Patent Document 1 describes a vehicle seat cover that can be customized to one's preferred style. Patent Document 2 further describes a structure in which an image for operating in-vehicle devices is projected and mapped onto the surface shape of the dashboard to expand the design freedom of the dashboard's appearance.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Noboru No. 3039615

[0006] Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2015-85807 Summary of the Invention

[0007] The problem the invention aims to solve

[0008] As a method for customizing the interior of a vehicle, one example is a method that reflects information related to drawings or scribbles made by occupants of the vehicle (such as children) onto the interior components. However, the prior art described in Patent Documents 1 and 2 does not mention reflecting information related to drawings or scribbles made by children onto the interior components.

[0009] One purpose of this disclosure is to use information related to painting to customize the interior of a vehicle.

[0010] Solution for solving the problem

[0011] To address the aforementioned problems, one aspect of the vehicle control device disclosed herein includes: an information acquisition unit that acquires information relating to drawing performed directly or indirectly by a passenger of the vehicle; and a control unit that projects the drawing-related information acquired by the information acquisition unit onto a predetermined area inside the vehicle or displays it on at least one display device mounted on the vehicle.

[0012] To address the aforementioned problems, one aspect of the vehicle control method disclosed herein includes the following steps: an information acquisition step of acquiring information relating to drawing performed directly or indirectly by an occupant of the vehicle; and a control step of projecting the information relating to the drawing onto a designated area inside the vehicle or displaying it on at least one display device mounted on the vehicle.

[0013] The vehicle control devices involved in the various embodiments of this disclosure can also be implemented by a computer. In this case, the control program implemented by the computer by causing the computer to operate as the various parts (software elements) of the vehicle control device, and the computer-readable recording medium on which the control program is recorded, are also within the scope of this disclosure.

[0014] The effects of the invention

[0015] According to one method disclosed herein, it is possible to use information related to painting to customize the interior of a vehicle. Attached Figure Description

[0016] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating an outline of the system used in the vehicle according to this embodiment.

[0017] Figure 2 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the hardware structure of a vehicle control device.

[0018] Figure 3 This is a block diagram illustrating one example of the functions of a vehicle control device.

[0019] Figure 4 This diagram illustrates one method of unfolding the writing medium inside a vehicle.

[0020] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the processing performed by a vehicle control device.

[0021] Figure 6 This is a diagram illustrating other structures of the writing medium.

[0022] Figure 7 This is a block diagram illustrating other examples of the functions of a vehicle control device.

[0023] Figure 8 This is a block diagram illustrating other examples of the functions of a vehicle control device.

[0024] Figure 9 This is a block diagram illustrating other examples of the functions of a vehicle control device.

[0025] Figure 10 This is a block diagram illustrating other examples of the functions of a vehicle control device.

[0026] Figure 11 This is a block diagram illustrating other examples of the functions of a vehicle control device.

[0027] Figure 12 These are illustrations of other examples of writing media. Detailed Implementation

[0028] The embodiments of this disclosure will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, identical or substantially identical structures are labeled with the same reference numerals and will not be described repeatedly.

[0029] The terms "first," "second," and "third" used in this disclosure are used to distinguish a constituent element from other constituent elements and are not intended to limit the number, order, or priority of the constituent elements. For example, the presence of "first element" and "second element" does not mean that only these two elements are used, nor does it mean that "first element" must precede "second element."

[0030] (System Overview)

[0031] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating an outline of the system used in the vehicle 100 according to this embodiment. (See diagram for details.) Figure 1 As shown, the system used in vehicle 100 is for customizing the interior of vehicle 100 by using a drawing G1 made by an occupant P3 (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as child P3) on a drawing medium mounted on vehicle 100, and for sharing the drawing G1 among family members. Furthermore, "drawing" can also be referred to as "painting". The "drawing medium" in this embodiment will be described later.

[0032] There are no particular limitations on the construction of vehicle 100. Figure 1 In the example shown, vehicle 100 has three rows of seats. The first seat S1 in the front row is occupied by passenger P1 (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as father P1). The third seat S3 in the middle row is occupied by child P3. The fourth seat S4 in the middle row is occupied by passenger P4 (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as mother P4). A platform T1 extending in the longitudinal direction of vehicle 100 is provided between the first seat S1, the second seat S2, the third seat S3, and the fourth seat S4. Furthermore, the following explanation will use passenger P1 as the driver. Additionally, vehicle 100 may also be a vehicle equipped with autonomous driving capabilities.

[0033] The drawings and graffiti created by the child (P3) are projected onto the interior components of vehicle 100 (e.g., dashboard, windshield, side windows, doors, pillars, seats, roof, etc.). The projected drawings are... Figure 1 The image shown is "G2 drawing". Through this projection, the drawings G1 created by child P3 can be reflected on the interior parts of vehicle 100, thus enabling customization of the vehicle 100's interior. Furthermore, this projection allows the drawings G1 created by child P3 to be shared among family members. Figure 1In the diagram, the backrest of the second front seat S2 is shown folded down. This allows the mother, P4, seated in the fourth seat S4, to easily visually confirm the G2 markings on interior components (e.g., dashboard, windshield, etc.) projected onto the front of the vehicle 100. Alternatively, the backrest of the second seat S2 may also be folded down.

[0034] According to this embodiment, the drawings G1 created by the child P3 are reflected on the interior parts of the vehicle 100, thereby providing a new driving experience that stimulates the child P3's imagination to create their own special space. Such a vehicle 100 not only provides a means of transportation, but also provides a space that makes driving more enjoyable and creative for the whole family.

[0035] (Hardware structure of vehicle control device)

[0036] Next, refer to Figure 2 Here is an example of the hardware structure of the vehicle control device 10 mounted on the vehicle 100. Figure 2 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the hardware structure of a vehicle control unit 10. The vehicle control unit 10 is a microcomputer capable of controlling various devices mounted in the vehicle 100. Such a vehicle control unit 10 can also be configured as a so-called vehicle ECU (Electronic Control Unit).

[0037] like Figure 2 As shown, the vehicle control unit 10 includes a processor 11, a memory 12, and an input / output (I / F) 13. These components are connected to each other via a bus 14 in a manner that enables them to communicate with each other.

[0038] The memory 12 is composed of ROM (Read Only Memory), RAM (Random Access Memory), etc., and stores the program executed by the processor 11, as well as information used in that program. The processor 11 has a CPU (Central Processing Unit) for performing arithmetic operations, reading the program from ROM and using RAM as the working area to execute the program. Furthermore, in Figure 2 The diagram shows one processor 11, but it is not limited to this; multiple processors 11 may also be provided. Furthermore, the recording media that the processor 11 can read is not limited to ROM and RAM, but may also include EPROM (Erasable Programmable ROM), EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable ROM), etc.

[0039] Input / output I / O 13 is used for data communication with various devices mounted in vehicle 100. Specifically, input / output I / O 13 is used for data communication with GPS receiver 20, navigation device 21, writing sunshade 22, camera 23, and projector 24 mounted in vehicle 100. Such input / output I / O 13 can be configured as a communication circuit such as a CAN controller for communication according to the CAN protocol (Car Area Network).

[0040] GPS receiver 20 obtains the location information of vehicle 100 on the ground by receiving radio waves from artificial satellites. The location information of vehicle 100 obtained by GPS receiver 20 is sent to vehicle control device 10. In addition, GPS receiver 20 also sends the location information to navigation device 21.

[0041] The navigation device 21 is a device that guides the user along a route to the destination set by the passenger P1, who is acting as the driver. The navigation device 21 may also be equipped with a vehicle-specific OS, which is a customized OS used in smartphones, tablets, etc. This allows smartphones, tablets, etc., to work in conjunction with the navigation device 21. With this configuration, for example, it is possible to transmit drawings made by a child P3 on a tablet to the vehicle control unit 10 via the navigation device 21. This will be described later.

[0042] In addition to route guidance, the navigation device 21 can also be equipped with various other functions. For example, such as... Figure 2 As shown, the navigation device 21 may also have the function of a virtual switch 211. Such a virtual switch 211 can be a structure displayed on the central display used in the navigation device 21. The virtual switch 211 is a virtual switch used to switch the writing mode on and off. When occupant P1 clicks the virtual switch 211, the writing mode switches to on. When occupant P1 clicks the virtual switch 211 again, the writing mode switches to off. Each time occupant P1 clicks the virtual switch 211, an on or off signal is sent to the vehicle control device 10. The vehicle control device 10 controls the operation of the writing sunshade 22 based on the received on or off signal. That is, the virtual switch 211 can be considered a switch used to control the unfolding and retraction of the writing sunshade 22.

[0043] The writing sunshade 22 is one type of "writing medium" mentioned above, and is a sheet-like component that can be unfolded inside the vehicle 100 (hereinafter, sometimes simply referred to as the vehicle interior). Furthermore, the writing sunshade 22 has a writing surface that a child, P3, can write on. The writing sunshade 22 can be automatically unfolded and retracted inside the vehicle by an electric actuator. More specifically, the vehicle control device 10 controls the unfolding and retraction of the writing sunshade 22 by activating the electric actuator based on an opening signal generated when the occupant, P1, clicks the virtual switch 211 to switch the writing mode to "on". Alternatively, the writing sunshade 22 can also be a structure that can be manually unfolded and retracted inside the vehicle. Furthermore, "writing sunshade" can also be referred to as "writing canvas," "writing sheet," etc.

[0044] As for the material of the writing shade 22, it can be a material that children can easily write on with writing tools such as pens and crayons, or a material that can easily erase the writing by spraying oil on it. Synthetic leather is an example of such a material.

[0045] In addition, in order to ensure reliable color rendering of pens, crayons, etc., the surface of the writing shade 22 may also be treated with a nylon coating or other surface treatments.

[0046] Camera 23 has imaging elements such as CCD (charge-coupled device) and CMOS (complementary metal oxide semiconductor). Camera 23 can be installed anywhere inside the vehicle. For example, camera 23 can be installed in a location where it can capture images of the sunshade 22 used for drawing inside the vehicle. Since the child P3 is drawing on the sunshade 22, capturing images of the sunshade 22 means capturing images of the drawings made by the child P3 on the sunshade 22. The images of the drawings captured by camera 23 are sent to vehicle control device 10. Furthermore, there is no particular limitation on the number of cameras 23 that can be installed.

[0047] Projector 24 is a device that projects the painted image captured by camera 23 onto the interior components of vehicle 100 based on instructions from vehicle control device 10. There are no particular limitations on the placement of projector 24; for example, projector 24 can be placed in the center of the vehicle's roof. This is because placing it in the center of the roof allows projection onto more interior components. Furthermore, projector 24 can also perform laser scanning projection to project the painted image. This allows for dynamic projection of the painted image. Since laser scanning projection is a known technology, its description is omitted.

[0048] (Functions of vehicle control device 10)

[0049] Figure 3This is a block diagram illustrating one example of the functions of the vehicle control device 10. The vehicle control device 10 functions as a control unit 30, a position information acquisition unit 31, and an image acquisition unit 32 by executing a program stored in the memory 12 via a processor 11. Furthermore, the control unit 30 includes an deployment control unit 301 and a projection control unit 302. Additionally, the term "~unit" as used herein can also be described as a "~circuit", "~device", "~equipment", or "~step", "~process", or "~processing". That is, as described as a "~unit", it can be implemented as described above using a program stored in the memory 12, or it can be implemented solely by software, solely by hardware such as components, devices, substrates, and wiring, or by a combination of software and hardware. These functions will now be described.

[0050] The location information acquisition unit 31 acquires the location information of the vehicle 100 from the GPS receiver 20. As will be described later, this location information is used to determine whether the vehicle 100 has reached its destination.

[0051] The image acquisition unit 32 acquires an image of the writing (e.g., writing G1) captured by the camera 23. The image acquisition unit 32 outputs the acquired image to the projection control unit 302.

[0052] The control unit 301 uses an electric actuator to control the movement of the writing sunshade 22.

[0053] The projection control unit 302 outputs commands to the projector 24 to project the image acquired from the image acquisition unit 32 onto the interior components of the vehicle 100.

[0054] (Example of unfolding the sunshade 22 for writing)

[0055] Figure 4 This diagram illustrates one method of unfolding the writing sunshade 22 inside the vehicle. The vehicle control unit 10 activates an electric actuator based on an opening signal generated when occupant P1 clicks the virtual switch 211 to switch the writing mode to open, thereby unfolding the writing sunshade 22 inside the vehicle. (As shown...) Figure 4 As shown, the vehicle control unit 10 can unfold the writing sunshade 22 to cover the side window. By unfolding the writing sunshade 22 in this way, it is easy for the child P3 to write on the writing sunshade 22.

[0056] Alternatively, the writing sunshade 22 can be unfolded to cover not only the side window but also the door trim panel connected to the side window. The door trim panel has a textured structure; by unfolding the writing sunshade 22 to cover the door trim panel, the textured surface is flattened, making it easier for the child P3 to write on.

[0057] In addition, Figure 4 The example shown depicts a writing sunshade 22 unfolded at a side window, but the unfolding location of the writing sunshade 22 is not limited to this. For example, the writing sunshade 22 can also be installed on the roof, unfolding to cover the roof. This allows the child P3 to write on the roof, which is normally inaccessible. Thus, according to this embodiment, a completely new car experience can be provided. Furthermore, the structure can be configured with multiple writing sunshades 22, allowing them to unfold at both the side windows and the roof, or it can be configured to unfold in other interior spaces besides the side windows and roof. For example, the writing sunshade 22 can also unfold on the seat back. This allows the child P3 to draw freely in a wide space such as the side windows, roof, and seat back.

[0058] (Processing flow)

[0059] Next, refer to Figure 5 This will explain the processing flow performed by the vehicle control device 10. Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the processing performed by the vehicle control unit 10.

[0060] In step S101, the vehicle control unit 10 receives a destination input from an occupant (e.g., occupant P1). There are no particular limitations on the method of receiving the destination input. Typically, occupant P1 begins driving after inputting the destination into the navigation device 21; therefore, the vehicle control unit 10 can obtain the destination input to the navigation device 21 from the navigation device 21.

[0061] In step S102, the vehicle control device 10 receives a writing mode switching input from the occupant P1. As described above, the occupant P1 can switch the writing mode on or off each time he clicks the virtual switch 211.

[0062] In step S103, the vehicle control device 10 determines whether the virtual switch 211 has been clicked to switch the writing mode to on. If it is determined that the writing mode has been switched to on (step S103: "Yes"), the process proceeds to step S104.

[0063] Furthermore, the virtual switch 211 can also function only when specified conditions are met. One example of a "specified condition" is that the driving time to the destination input in step S101 is more than a specified time (e.g., more than two hours). When such a condition is set, the virtual switch 211 will only function when the driving time to the destination is more than the specified time. In other words, the father P1 can switch the writing mode to on only when the driving time to the destination is more than the specified time, allowing the child P3 to write under the writing sunshade 22.

[0064] The “prescribed conditions” are not limited to the conditions mentioned above. They can also include conditions such as the distance traveled to the destination being more than the prescribed distance (e.g., more than 200 km), or conditions such as the driving time to the destination being more than the prescribed time and the distance traveled to the destination being more than the prescribed distance.

[0065] In step S104, the vehicle control device 10 activates the electric actuator based on an opening signal generated when the occupant P1 clicks the virtual switch 211 to switch the writing mode to open, thereby unfolding the writing sunshade 22 inside the vehicle (see reference). Figure 4 Thus, child P3 is able to write using the writing shade 22.

[0066] Furthermore, in this flowchart, the trigger for unfolding the writing sunshade 22 inside the vehicle is described as "clicking the virtual switch 211," but the trigger for unfolding the writing sunshade 22 is not limited to this. For example, a physical switch can be installed inside the vehicle, and "operating the physical switch" can be treated as the trigger for unfolding the writing sunshade 22. Additionally, the trigger for unfolding the writing sunshade 22 inside the vehicle can also be a voice input from a passenger of the vehicle 100. As a specific example, the trigger for unfolding the writing sunshade 22 inside the vehicle can also be a voice input from the father P1 or mother P4. For example, if the father P1 or mother P4 utters a voice such as "Please unfold the writing sunshade 22," this voice is input to the vehicle control device 10 via a microphone mounted on the vehicle 100. The vehicle control device 10 can recognize this voice and unfold the writing sunshade 22 inside the vehicle. Alternatively, the vehicle control device 10 can be configured to automatically unfold the writing sunshade 22 when the driving time to the destination exceeds a predetermined time. With this configuration, the writing sunshade 22 unfolds automatically when the driving time to the destination exceeds the predetermined time, thus eliminating the need for the occupant P1 to perform operations such as clicking the virtual switch 211 to unfold the writing sunshade 22, thereby improving the convenience for the occupant P1.

[0067] In step S105, camera 23 captures the drawing (e.g., drawing G1) made by child P3 on the drawing sunshade 22. Vehicle control unit 10 acquires the image of drawing G1 captured by camera 23. Furthermore, there is no particular limitation on the timing of camera 23 capturing the drawing G1. Occupant P1 can use camera 23 to capture the drawing G1 at any desired time. For example, it could be configured such that a switch for controlling camera 23 is displayed on a monitor used in navigation unit 21, and camera 23 captures the drawing G1 when occupant P1 clicks the switch.

[0068] Alternatively, camera 23 can automatically capture images of the structure where G1 is painted.

[0069] In step S106, the vehicle control device 10 outputs a command to the projector 24 to project the image of the painting G1 obtained in step S105 onto the interior trim components of the vehicle 100 (see reference). Figure 1 Therefore, the drawings G1 made by the child P3 can be reflected on the interior parts of the vehicle 100, thereby enabling customization of the interior of the vehicle 100. Furthermore, the drawings G1 made by the child P3 can be shared among family members.

[0070] In step S107, the vehicle control device 10 determines whether the vehicle 100 has reached its destination. There is no particular limitation on the determination method; the vehicle control device 10 can use the location information obtained from the GPS receiver 20 to determine whether the vehicle 100 has reached its destination. Alternatively, the vehicle control device 10 can obtain a signal from the navigation device 21 indicating that the vehicle 100 has reached its destination. In this case, the vehicle control device 10 can determine that the vehicle 100 has reached its destination by obtaining this signal.

[0071] If it is determined that vehicle 100 has reached its destination (step S107: "Yes"), the process proceeds to step S108.

[0072] In step S108, the vehicle control device 10 activates the electric actuator to retract the writing sunshade 22. Furthermore, in this flowchart, the trigger for retracting the writing sunshade 22 is described as "determining that vehicle 100 has reached its destination," but the trigger for retracting the writing sunshade 22 is not limited to this. For example, the vehicle control device 10 could also retract the writing sunshade 22 by having occupant P1 click the virtual switch 211 again to switch the writing mode from on to off.

[0073] As described above, the vehicle control method of this embodiment includes the following steps: an information acquisition step (S105) to acquire information related to a drawing performed by an occupant of the vehicle 100 (e.g., a child P3); and a control step (S106) to project the information related to the drawing onto a designated area inside the vehicle 100.

[0074] Figure 5 The flowchart shown is an example of the process. You can also delete steps, add new steps, or change the processing order without deviating from the main point.

[0075] (Effects)

[0076] As explained above, the following effects are achieved according to this embodiment.

[0077] The vehicle control device 10 includes: an information acquisition unit that acquires information related to drawing by an occupant of the vehicle 100 (e.g., a child P3); and a control unit 30 that projects the drawing-related information acquired by the information acquisition unit onto a designated area inside the vehicle 100. An example of "drawing-related information" is an image of a drawing (e.g., drawing G1) made by the child P3 on the drawing shade 22. Another example of "information acquisition unit" is the image acquisition unit 32 described above.

[0078] Based on the above structure, information related to drawing, namely the image of the drawing G1 made by child P3 on the drawing sunshade 22, can be reflected in the interior parts of vehicle 100, thereby enabling customization of the interior of vehicle 100 (see reference). Figure 1 Additionally, the G1 coloring book allows family members to share drawings made by child P3.

[0079] Furthermore, the increased activity while on the move, such as the ability to write on the vehicle and have that writing reflected on interior parts of the vehicle 100, helps prevent children from getting bored while traveling. This is especially useful during long drives and traffic jams.

[0080] In addition, opportunities for communication increase through activities such as parents and children drawing together, or parents (father P1, mother P4) commenting on children's drawings (P3), thus deepening the bond between parents and children.

[0081] In addition, children can experience the joy of having their artwork recognized by having it reflected in the interior parts of the vehicle. This leads to an increased sense of self-affirmation.

[0082] Furthermore, by reflecting the drawings and graffiti of the child P3 onto the interior components of the vehicle 100, a completely new driving experience can be provided, such as stimulating the child P3's imagination to create a special space that is uniquely their own. This vehicle 100 not only provides a means of transportation, but also offers a space that makes driving more enjoyable and creative, allowing the whole family to experience it.

[0083] In the above description, the number of children riding in vehicle 100 is set to one, but the number of children is not limited to one; there can be two or more. Similarly, there is no particular limitation on the number of adults. The combination of adults and children can be arbitrary, depending on the number of people that vehicle 100 can carry. Drawing is the act of writing or drawing by the child P3 using prescribed writing tools (pens, crayons, etc.) on a drawing medium mounted on vehicle 100. The information acquisition unit (image acquisition unit 32) acquires images of the drawing captured by the camera 23 mounted on vehicle 100 as information related to the drawing. The control unit 30 projects or displays the images of the drawing acquired by the information acquisition unit. An example of the "drawing medium" mentioned here is a drawing sunshade 22.

[0084] As described above, the writing shade 22 is designed to be able to be used in the side window (see reference). Figure 4 The writing medium, which unfolds on the roof and other surfaces, is designed for children's P3s. For children, writing isn't just play; it has many positive effects on their development. The spacious areas such as side windows and the roof are suitable for drawing large pictures or stories. By unfolding the writing shade 22 in such a large space, children's P3s can fully unleash their imagination to freely draw pictures or stories. Therefore, based on the above structure, children's P3s' imagination can be cultivated, and easily boring travel time can become meaningful.

[0085] Additionally, the designated area for the projected image of G1 may include at least the dashboard (see reference). Figure 1 ).

[0086] like Figure 1 As shown, by projecting the image of the graffiti G1 onto an area that includes at least the dashboard, the father P1 and mother P4 are able to understand what the graffiti G1 drawn by the child P3 is like.

[0087] Furthermore, the writing medium is a sheet-like component that can be unfolded inside the vehicle 100. Alternatively, the control unit 30 may unfold the writing medium inside the vehicle 100 when certain conditions are met. As mentioned above, the "certain conditions" referred to here include a driving time of at least a certain time to reach the destination, a travel distance of at least a certain distance to reach the destination, etc.

[0088] The writing sunshade 22 is a medium that unfolds in a wide space such as the side windows and roof, so a certain amount of time is needed for the child P3 to fully enjoy writing. In this way, the vehicle control device 10 according to this embodiment is suitable for long-distance driving. Therefore, by unfolding the writing sunshade 22 under the specified conditions, the whole family can enjoy long-distance driving.

[0089] Alternatively, the writing medium can be spread out to cover the side windows of the vehicle 100 and the door interior panels connected to the side windows.

[0090] The door trim panels have a textured surface, but according to the above structure, the textured surface is flattened, making it easy for children to write on the P3.

[0091] In addition, the control unit 30 can also perform projection mapping in a designated area to project the painted image.

[0092] Based on the above structure, for example, if a child on page 3 draws a picture of a fish, it is possible to perform a dynamic projection as if the fish were swimming.

[0093] [Variation Example]

[0094] The following describes a variation of this embodiment.

[0095] (Other structures of the writing shade 22)

[0096] Figure 6 This diagram illustrates other structures of the writing shade 22. In the above embodiment, an example was described where the writing shade 22 is made of a sheet of easily writeable synthetic leather, but the structure of the writing shade 22 is not limited to this. For example, as... Figure 6 As shown, the writing shade 22 can also be composed of multiple sheets of film or drawing paper that are easy to write on. These multiple sheets of film or drawing paper are configured such that the writing surfaces are bonded together by an adhesive to maintain the layered state, allowing the top layer to be peeled off. This is a structure where the next writing surface appears when the top layer is peeled off. With this structure, writing can be done on the next sheet of film or drawing paper without erasing previous writing. Therefore, when writing a new piece, there is no need to erase previous writing.

[0097] Figure 7 This is a block diagram illustrating other examples of the functions of the vehicle control device 10. For example... Figure 7 As shown, the vehicle control device 10 may also include an image processing unit 303.

[0098] The image processing unit 303 performs prescribed image processing on the painted image captured by the camera 23. The prescribed image processing is, for example, color processing. By projecting the painted image after color processing, the interior of the vehicle 100 can be customized with vibrant colors.

[0099] Figure 8 This is a block diagram illustrating other examples of the functions of the vehicle control device 10. For example... Figure 8As shown, the vehicle control unit 10 may also include a display control unit 304. In the above description, it is explained that the painted image is projected onto the dashboard, etc., but it is not limited to this. For example, the vehicle control unit 10 may display the painted image on at least one display device installed in the vehicle 100 instead of projecting the painted image. There are no particular limitations on the display device; examples include a head-up display, a central display (the display used in the navigation device 21), an instrument display, and an entertainment display installed on the seat back.

[0100] Even when the structure of the written image is displayed on a display device, the same effect as described above is achieved.

[0101] Furthermore, regarding "projecting onto interior components" and "displaying onto a display device," either one can be performed individually, or they can be performed simultaneously.

[0102] Figure 9 This is a block diagram illustrating other examples of the functions of the vehicle control device 10. For example... Figure 9 As shown, the vehicle control unit 10 may also include a seat control unit 305 and a seating position determination unit 33. When the writing mode is switched to on, the seating position determination unit 33 determines the position where the child P3 is sitting. Here, "determining the position where the child P3 is sitting" can also be described as "determining the seat where the child P3 is sitting". There is no particular limitation on the method for determining the seat where the child P3 is sitting. For example, the seating position determination unit 33 can determine the seat where the child P3 is sitting by detecting the child P3 based on the image of the vehicle interior captured by the camera 23. The seating position determination unit 33 outputs the determined seat information to the seat control unit 305.

[0103] The seat control unit 305 moves the seat with the writing medium to the position where the child P3 is seated based on information obtained from the seating position determination unit 33. Figure 1 In this case, the seat where child P3 sits is the third seat S3. It is assumed that a writing medium, such as a writing sunshade 22, is provided on the backrest of the first seat S1. At this time, the seat control unit 305 moves the first seat S1 closer to the third seat S3. This shortens the distance between the writing sunshade 22 and child P3. Therefore, it is easier for child P3 to write on the writing sunshade 22.

[0104] Figure 10 This is a block diagram illustrating other examples of the functions of the vehicle control device 10. For example... Figure 10As shown, the vehicle control unit 10 may also include a linkage control unit 306. The linkage control unit 306 controls the interior components in a manner linked to the child P3's painting. For example, suppose the child P3 paints the fourth seat S4 on the painting sunshade 22. In this case, the linkage control unit 306 controls the actual fourth seat S4 to rotate or recline the seat back of the fourth seat S4 in a manner linked to the painted fourth seat S4. By controlling the interior components in this way in conjunction with the painting, the child P3 can manage the interior space as if it were in its own base. Therefore, according to the above structure, a completely new car experience can be provided.

[0105] Figure 11 This is a block diagram illustrating other examples of the functions of the vehicle control device 10. For example... Figure 11 As shown, the vehicle control device 10 may also include an image generation unit 34. The image generation unit 34 acquires the voice of the child P3 and generates an image corresponding to the voice of the child P3. As an example of a method for acquiring the voice of the child P3, it is sufficient to install a microphone inside the vehicle.

[0106] Based on the above structure, it is possible to customize the interior of the vehicle 100 using images that reflect the meaning of the child P3, without setting up physical writing media such as writing sunshade 22 on the vehicle 100.

[0107] In this embodiment, the drawing (scribbling) can be done directly by the child P3 using writing tools such as pens or crayons, or indirectly by the child P3 making sounds. That is, the drawing (scribbling) in this embodiment can be done directly or indirectly by the child P3.

[0108] Figure 12 These are illustrations of other examples of writing media. For example... Figure 12 As shown, a writing plate 61, serving as a writing medium, can also be installed at the mounting port 60 located on the back of the first seat S1. Additionally, the platform T1 (see reference) Figure 1 The surface of the writing surface can also be configured to be writable. With this structure, the child P3 can write on various writing media such as the writing sunshade 22, writing board 61, and table T1. By projecting the images written on multiple writing media onto the interior parts of the vehicle 100, the interior of the vehicle 100 can be customized with vibrant colors.

[0109] In the above embodiment, it is described that the child P3 writes and draws on the writing medium mounted on the vehicle 100, but it is not limited to this. The "writing medium" does not necessarily have to be mounted on the vehicle 100. For example, the "writing medium" can be any device that has an input function that can perform writing and can be connected to the vehicle control device 10 in a communicative manner. Examples of such "writing media" include smartphones, tablets, laptops, and portable game consoles. These devices correspond to "external terminals". As described above, if a vehicle-specific OS is installed on the navigation device 21, the vehicle control device 10 can communicate with external smartphones, tablets, etc. via the navigation device 21. In the following description, the "writing medium" will be set to an external tablet terminal as an example.

[0110] The child P3 can use a pen-shaped operating component or their own fingertip to write on the screen of the tablet terminal. The pen-shaped operating component is, for example, a stylus. As described above, the tablet terminal is connected to the vehicle control unit 10 in a communicative manner; therefore, the image of the writing input to the tablet terminal is sent from the tablet terminal to the vehicle control unit 10 via the navigation device 21. The vehicle control unit 10 projects or displays the image of the writing received from the tablet terminal. With this structure, the interior of the vehicle 100 can be customized using the writing on the child P3 without installing a writing medium such as a writing sunshade 22 on the vehicle 100.

[0111] Alternatively, the interior components of vehicle 100 can be displayed on the tablet's screen in a way that reflects the interior components of vehicle 100. Thus, the child P3 can write on the tablet's screen as if it were directly writing on the interior components of vehicle 100.

[0112] Furthermore, it can be a structure that projects or displays the painted image only during autonomous driving, or a structure that projects or displays the painted image only during parking.

[0113] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the description refers to the ability to share the drawings made by child P3 among family members, but it is not limited to this. For example, if the passengers of vehicle 100 are friends, they can share the drawings made by their friends with each other.

[0114] Furthermore, as an example of how to unfold the writing sunshade 22 inside the vehicle, the above describes a method using a virtual switch 211, sound, etc. However, the method for unfolding the writing sunshade 22 inside the vehicle is not limited to this. For example, the writing sunshade 22 may be equipped with a locking mechanism to prevent unfolding inside the vehicle. In this case, the virtual switch 211, sound, etc., can also be used to unlock the writing sunshade 22. Alternatively, after unlocking the writing sunshade 22 using the virtual switch 211, sound, etc., a child, for example, using a P3, can unfold the writing sunshade 22 inside the vehicle by operating a physical switch installed inside the vehicle. If this is the case, the writing sunshade 22 will not be unfolded inside the vehicle until the lock is released. In other words, to unfold the writing sunshade 22 inside the vehicle, the lock must be released. Even if a child (P3) misoperates, the writing sunshade 22 will not be unfolded inside the vehicle as long as the lock is not released. Therefore, with this structure, the writing sunshade 22 can be unfolded inside the vehicle safely. Alternatively, the writing sunshade 22 can be manually unfolded and stored inside the vehicle by releasing the lock using a virtual switch 211, sound, etc. Even with this structure, the writing sunshade 22 can be unfolded inside the vehicle safely, just as described above.

[0115] [Implementation example using software]

[0116] The functions of the vehicle control device 10 can be implemented by a program that enables the computer to function as the vehicle control device 10 and enables each control block (e.g., control unit 30) of the computer to function as the vehicle control device 10.

[0117] In this case, the vehicle control device 10 includes a computer as hardware for executing programs. The computer has at least one control device (e.g., a processor) and at least one storage device (e.g., a memory). The functions described in the above embodiments are implemented by executing programs through the computer.

[0118] The program can be recorded non-transitorily on one or more computer-readable recording media. The vehicle control device 10 may or may not have such a recording medium. In the latter case, the program can be supplied to the vehicle control device 10 via any wired or wireless transmission medium.

[0119] Furthermore, some or all of the functions of each control block can also be implemented by logic circuits. For example, integrated circuits that form the logic circuits that enable the functions of each control block are also included within the scope of this disclosure. In addition, the functions of each control block can also be implemented by a quantum computer, for example.

[0120] Furthermore, the processes described in the above embodiments can also be performed by AI (Artificial Intelligence). In this case, the AI ​​can operate either through the vehicle control device 10 or through other devices (such as edge computers or cloud servers).

[0121] This disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications can be made within the scope of the claims.

[0122] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0123] 100: Vehicle; 10: Vehicle control device; 22: Writing sunshade; 23: Camera; 24: Projector; 30: Control unit; 32: Image acquisition unit; 34: Image generation unit; 211: Virtual switch.

Claims

1. A vehicle control device, comprising: The information acquisition department acquires information relating to drawings made directly or indirectly by occupants of the vehicle; and The control unit projects the information related to drawing, acquired by the information acquisition unit, onto a designated area inside the vehicle or displays it on at least one display device mounted on the vehicle.

2. The vehicle control device according to claim 1, wherein, The occupants include at least one or more children. The drawing refers to the act of writing or drawing by the child using prescribed writing tools on a writing medium mounted on the vehicle. The information acquisition unit acquires images of the drawing captured by a camera mounted on the vehicle, and uses these images as information related to the drawing. The control unit projects or displays the written image acquired by the information acquisition unit.

3. The vehicle control device according to claim 1, wherein, The occupants include at least one or more children. The drawing refers to the act of writing or drawing on an external terminal using a manipulator or the child's own fingertips. The information acquisition unit acquires the painted image from the external terminal. The control unit projects or displays the written image acquired by the information acquisition unit.

4. The vehicle control device according to claim 1, wherein, The occupants include at least one or more children. The vehicle control device also includes an image generation unit that generates an image corresponding to the child's voice. The information acquisition unit acquires the image generated by the image generation unit. The control unit projects or displays the image acquired by the information acquisition unit.

5. The vehicle control device according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein, The specified area includes at least the dashboard.

6. The vehicle control device according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein, The display device includes at least a head-up display.

7. The vehicle control device according to claim 2, wherein, The writing medium is a sheet-like component that can be unfolded inside the vehicle. Under the specified conditions, the control unit will spread the writing medium inside the vehicle.

8. The vehicle control device according to claim 7, wherein, The writing medium is a sheet-like component that can be unfolded to cover the side windows of the vehicle and the door interior panels connected to the side windows.

9. The vehicle control device according to claim 2, wherein, The control unit performs light-sculpting projection on the designated area to project the image.

10. A vehicle control method, comprising the following steps: The information acquisition step involves acquiring information related to drawings made directly or indirectly by occupants of the vehicle. as well as The control step involves projecting the information related to the drawing onto a designated area inside the vehicle or displaying it on at least one display device mounted on the vehicle.

11. A vehicle comprising the vehicle control device according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

Images