Display control device, vehicle provided with display control device, display control method, and display control program

Abstract

[Problem] To provide a display control device that makes it easy for a user of an assist system to grasp the use status of the assist system. [Solution] A display control device (10) controls the operation of a display device (40) that displays information relating to an assist system for use in a vehicle (100). The assist system is provided with a plurality of different assist functions. The display control device displays, on the display device, the result of evaluation that is comprehensively evaluated with respect to the use status of the assist system on the basis of the operating state of each of the assist functions.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a display control device, a vehicle equipped with a display control device, a display control method, and a display control program. Background Technology

[0002] A vehicle driving assistance device is known to control the operation of an assistance system that has multiple assistance functions to assist the operator in driving the vehicle. As such a vehicle driving assistance device, another known vehicle driving assistance device includes a display control device configured to display on a display device which assistance function is currently operating and which assistance function is in an operational state (for example, see Patent Document 1).

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent No. 6460019 Summary of the Invention

[0006] As mentioned above, existing display control devices are configured to show which auxiliary functions are working and which auxiliary functions are in a working state. However, if too many auxiliary functions are displayed on the display device, it may cause the vehicle operator to have difficulty grasping the utilization status of the auxiliary system.

[0007] The purpose of this invention is to provide a display control device, a vehicle equipped with a display control device, a display control method, and a display control program, so that users of the auxiliary system can easily understand the usage status of the auxiliary system.

[0008] The display control device of this invention includes a control device for controlling the operation of a display device that displays information related to an auxiliary system used in the vehicle. The auxiliary system has multiple, each with different auxiliary functions. The control device is configured to display, via the display device, an evaluation result that comprehensively assesses the utilization of the auxiliary system based on the operational states of each of the auxiliary functions.

[0009] According to the display control device of the present invention, when the auxiliary system has multiple auxiliary functions, instead of displaying the utilization status of each auxiliary function through the display device, the utilization status of the multiple auxiliary functions (i.e., the utilization status of the auxiliary system) is aggregated into one and displayed as a comprehensive evaluation through the display device. Therefore, the user of the auxiliary system can easily grasp the utilization status of the auxiliary system.

[0010] Furthermore, in the display control device according to the present invention, the control device can be configured to display the evaluation result through the display device when the auxiliary system is working, and to stop displaying the evaluation result through the display device when the auxiliary system stops working.

[0011] According to the display control device of the present invention, the result of the comprehensive evaluation is displayed only when it is beneficial. Therefore, it is possible to prevent users of the assistance system from becoming annoyed by the useless display of the comprehensive evaluation result.

[0012] Furthermore, in the display control device according to the present invention, for example, when the auxiliary system has two auxiliary functions, an evaluation value is set for the operation state of each of the auxiliary functions. When the sum of the evaluation values ​​set for the current operation state of each of the auxiliary functions is greater than or equal to a predetermined value, the evaluation becomes the highest evaluation. The evaluation value is set for the operation state of each of the auxiliary functions in the following manner: even if the evaluation value set for the current operation state of one of the auxiliary functions is a value greater than or equal to a first evaluation value, but the evaluation value set for the current operation state of the other auxiliary function is less than a second evaluation value which is less than the first evaluation value, the sum of the evaluation values ​​set for the current operation state of each of the auxiliary functions will not be greater than or equal to the predetermined value.

[0013] According to the display control device of the present invention, when one auxiliary function is in an operating state with a high evaluation value but the other auxiliary function is in an operating state with a low evaluation value, the sum of the evaluation values ​​will not exceed a predetermined value, and the overall evaluation will not be high. Therefore, it is possible to encourage users of the auxiliary system to utilize more auxiliary functions in operating states with higher evaluation values.

[0014] Furthermore, in the display control device according to the present invention, for example, the evaluation value is set for the operation state of each of the auxiliary functions in the following manner: when the evaluation value set for the current operation state of one auxiliary function is a value greater than or equal to the first evaluation value, and the evaluation value set for the current operation state of the other auxiliary function is a value less than the first evaluation value but greater than or equal to the second evaluation value, the sum of the evaluation values ​​set for the current operation state of each of the auxiliary functions is greater than or equal to the predetermined value.

[0015] According to the display control device of the present invention, when the auxiliary functions of both are in an operation state with a moderate evaluation value, the sum of the evaluation values ​​becomes a predetermined value or higher, and the overall evaluation becomes a high evaluation. Therefore, it is possible to bring satisfaction to the user of the auxiliary system regarding the use of the auxiliary functions. Consequently, it is possible to encourage the user of the auxiliary system to utilize more auxiliary functions in an operation state with a higher evaluation value.

[0016] Furthermore, in the display control device involved in this invention, for example, the greater the degree to which it helps reduce the energy consumption of the vehicle, the higher the evaluation value is set.

[0017] According to the display control device of the present invention, the benefits of utilizing more auxiliary functions can be more accurately reflected in the overall evaluation.

[0018] In the display control device involved in this invention, the operating state of the auxiliary function is, for example, the control mode in which the auxiliary function is being executed.

[0019] According to the display control device of the present invention, an evaluation value can be set for each control mode, and a comprehensive evaluation can be performed based on the sum of these evaluation values.

[0020] In the display control device according to the present invention, the auxiliary function is, for example, the function of enabling the vehicle to accelerate and decelerate autonomously, and it has a coasting acceleration / deceleration mode and a normal acceleration / deceleration mode as the control modes. In this case, the coasting acceleration / deceleration mode is, for example, a control mode in which the vehicle autonomously accelerates and decelerates by varying the distance between the vehicle and the preceding vehicle (i.e., the distance between the preceding vehicle and the vehicle) within a set upper and lower limit range when there is a vehicle in front of the vehicle, and it is a control mode in which the vehicle decelerates by coasting. The normal acceleration / deceleration mode is, for example, a control mode in which the vehicle autonomously accelerates and decelerates by maintaining the distance between the preceding vehicle and the preceding vehicle as the target distance when there is a vehicle in front of the vehicle. Furthermore, the evaluation value set for the normal acceleration / deceleration mode is, for example, lower than the evaluation value set for the coasting acceleration / deceleration mode.

[0021] According to the display control device of the present invention, the overall evaluation of the auxiliary function when operating in a normal acceleration / deceleration mode is lower than the overall evaluation when the auxiliary function operates in a coasting acceleration / deceleration mode. Therefore, the user of the auxiliary system can determine whether the auxiliary function is in a state of operation with greater or lesser benefits.

[0022] Furthermore, in the display control device according to the present invention, the evaluation value set for the normal acceleration / deceleration mode is, for example, zero.

[0023] According to the display control device of the present invention, the overall evaluation of the auxiliary function when operating in the normal acceleration / deceleration mode is lower. Therefore, the user of the auxiliary system can be aware that the auxiliary function is operating in a state where its benefits are minimal.

[0024] Furthermore, in the display control device according to the present invention, the coasting acceleration / deceleration mode includes, for example, an acceleration mode and a coasting deceleration mode. The acceleration mode is a mode that accelerates the vehicle, and the coasting deceleration mode is a mode that decelerates the vehicle by coasting. In this case, the evaluation value set for the acceleration mode is, for example, higher than the evaluation value set for the normal acceleration / deceleration mode, and the evaluation value set for the coasting deceleration mode is, for example, higher than the evaluation value set for the acceleration mode.

[0025] Although the energy consumption of the vehicle is relatively high when the auxiliary function is operating in acceleration mode, the operation of the auxiliary function in acceleration mode is necessary for it to subsequently operate in coasting deceleration mode. According to the display control device of the present invention, the overall evaluation is higher when the auxiliary function is operating in acceleration mode compared to when it is operating in normal acceleration / deceleration mode. Therefore, it is possible to achieve a high overall evaluation when the auxiliary function operates in a manner that reduces the overall energy consumption of the vehicle.

[0026] In the display control device of the present invention, the evaluation is the highest evaluation when the sum of the evaluation values ​​is above a predetermined value, for example, and the evaluation value set for the coasting deceleration mode is, for example, the largest value in the range less than the predetermined value.

[0027] According to the display control device of the present invention, the evaluation value set for the coasting deceleration mode is set to the maximum value within a range less than a predetermined value (the sum of the evaluation values ​​that make the overall evaluation the highest evaluation). Therefore, the likelihood of the overall evaluation becoming the highest evaluation is increased, which in turn increases the likelihood of providing the user of the assistance system with a sense of satisfaction in using the assistance functions.

[0028] Furthermore, in the display control device involved in this invention, the operating state is, for example, the driving environment of the vehicle achieved through the auxiliary function.

[0029] The extent of the benefits gained from activating the assistive functions varies depending on the vehicle's driving environment. According to the display control device of the present invention, the operating state is the vehicle's driving environment as achieved through the assistive functions. Therefore, an evaluation value corresponding to the vehicle's driving environment is set, and a comprehensive evaluation is performed based on the sum of these evaluation values. Thus, a more accurate comprehensive evaluation reflecting the extent of the benefits gained from activating the assistive functions can be performed.

[0030] Furthermore, in the display control device according to the present invention, as the auxiliary function, the auxiliary system includes, for example, a following driving function, having a following driving mode in which the vehicle autonomously accelerates and decelerates in a manner that causes the vehicle to follow a preceding vehicle; and an air resistance reduction driving function, having an air resistance reduction driving mode in which, when the following driving function is in the following driving mode, the target vehicle distance is set in a manner that enhances the air resistance reduction effect of the preceding vehicle on the vehicle. In this case, the driving environment of the vehicle is, for example, the vertical projected area of ​​the preceding vehicle and the vehicle distance when the air resistance reduction driving function is operating in the air resistance reduction driving mode.

[0031] When the air resistance reduction driving function operates in air resistance reduction driving mode, the vertical projected area of ​​the preceding vehicle and the distance between them affect the magnitude of the benefits gained by activating the assistance function. According to the display control device of the present invention, evaluation values ​​corresponding to the vertical projected area of ​​the preceding vehicle and the distance between them are set, and a comprehensive evaluation is performed based on the sum of these evaluation values. Therefore, a more accurate comprehensive evaluation reflecting the magnitude of the benefits gained by activating the assistance function can be performed.

[0032] Furthermore, in the display control device involved in this invention, for example, when the specified driving environment condition of the vertical projection area being greater than or equal to a specified area and the vehicle distance being less than a specified distance is not met, the evaluation value set for the air resistance reduction driving mode is higher when the specified driving environment condition is met.

[0033] The larger the vertical projection area, the greater the reduction in air resistance for the vehicle by following the preceding vehicle. Furthermore, the shorter the distance between vehicles, the greater the reduction in air resistance for the vehicle by following the preceding vehicle. According to the display control device of the present invention, a higher evaluation value is set when the specified driving environment condition is met, compared to when the specified driving environment condition of a vertical projection area of ​​more than a specified area and a distance between vehicles of less than a specified distance is not met. Therefore, a more accurate comprehensive evaluation reflecting the magnitude of the benefits gained by activating the auxiliary functions can be performed.

[0034] Furthermore, in the display control device according to the present invention, the evaluation value set for the air resistance reduction driving mode is obtained, for example, from a lookup table with the vertical projected area and the vehicle distance as independent variables.

[0035] According to the display control device of the present invention, the evaluation value is obtained from a lookup table. Therefore, the load on the control device used to obtain the evaluation value can be reduced.

[0036] Furthermore, in the display control device according to the present invention, the evaluation value set for the air resistance reduction driving mode is, for example, three or more values ​​corresponding to the combination of the vertical projected area and the vehicle distance.

[0037] When three or more evaluation values ​​are set, the evaluation values ​​are not only the maximum and minimum evaluation values, but also a moderate evaluation value between the maximum and minimum evaluation values. According to the display control device of the present invention, three or more evaluation values ​​are set. Therefore, even if many auxiliary function operation states are not set to the maximum evaluation value, as long as the operation state is set to a moderate evaluation value, a high overall evaluation can be obtained. This encourages users of the auxiliary system to utilize more auxiliary functions.

[0038] Furthermore, the vehicle involved in this invention is equipped with the aforementioned display control device.

[0039] According to the vehicle of the present invention, for the same reasons as described above, it is possible for the user of the assistance system to easily grasp the usage status of the assistance system.

[0040] The display control method of this invention controls the operation of a display device that displays information related to an auxiliary system used in the vehicle and has multiple different auxiliary functions. The display control method of this invention includes the following steps: displaying, via the display device, an evaluation result that comprehensively assesses the utilization status of the auxiliary system based on the respective operating states of the auxiliary functions.

[0041] According to the display control method of the present invention, for the same reasons as described above, it enables the user of the auxiliary system to easily grasp the usage status of the auxiliary system.

[0042] The display control program of this invention controls the operation of a display device that displays information related to an auxiliary system used in the vehicle and possesses multiple, distinct auxiliary functions. The display control program is configured to display, via the display device, an evaluation result that comprehensively assesses the utilization of the auxiliary system based on the operational states of each of the auxiliary functions.

[0043] According to the display control program of the present invention, for the same reasons as described above, it is possible for the user of the auxiliary system to easily grasp the usage status of the auxiliary system.

[0044] The constituent elements of this invention are not limited to the embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Other objects, features, and incidental advantages of this invention can be readily understood from the description of the embodiments of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0045] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating a vehicle driving assistance device that includes a display control device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] Figure 2A It is a diagram showing a scenario where there is a vehicle moving forward.

[0047] Figure 2B This is a diagram showing a scenario where there are no vehicles moving forward.

[0048] Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating the routines executed by a vehicle driving assistance device that includes a display control device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0049] Figure 4 It is a graph showing evaluation values ​​related to coasting and drag reduction driving functions.

[0050] Figure 5 This is a graph showing the comprehensive evaluation image.

[0051] Figure 6A This is a graph showing the overall evaluation image when the overall evaluation is the first evaluation (lowest evaluation).

[0052] Figure 6B This is a graph showing the overall evaluation image when the overall evaluation is the second evaluation.

[0053] Figure 6C This is a graph showing the overall evaluation image when the overall evaluation is the third level.

[0054] Figure 6D This is a graph showing the overall evaluation image when the overall evaluation is the fourth level.

[0055] Figure 6E This is a graph showing the overall evaluation image when the overall evaluation is the fifth evaluation (the highest evaluation).

[0056] Figure 7 It is a graph showing evaluation values ​​related to the air conditioning intensity setting function and acceleration setting function.

[0057] Figure 8 It is a graph showing evaluation values ​​related to follow-drive control and speed limit functions.

[0058] Figure 9 It is a graph showing evaluation values ​​related to follow-drive control and speed limit functions. Detailed Implementation

[0059] Hereinafter, with reference to the accompanying drawings, the display control device, the vehicle equipped with the display control device, the display control method, and the display control program according to embodiments of the present invention will be described. Figure 1 The diagram illustrates a vehicle driving assistance device 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The display control device according to the embodiment of the present invention is included in the vehicle driving assistance device 10. However, the vehicle driving assistance device 10 and the display control device may also be configured separately, and arranged such that a portion of the functions of the vehicle driving assistance device 10 described below (particularly the function of controlling the operation of the display device described later) are performed by the display control device, while the remaining functions are performed by the vehicle driving assistance device 10.

[0060] The vehicle driving assistance device 10 is mounted on the vehicle 100. Hereinafter, the vehicle driving assistance device 10 will be described using the case where the operator of the vehicle 100 is a person who rides in the vehicle 100 and drives the vehicle 100 (i.e., the driver of the vehicle 100).

[0061] However, the operator of the vehicle 100 can also be a person who drives the vehicle 100 remotely without being in the vehicle 100 (i.e., a remote operator of the vehicle 100). When the operator of the vehicle 100 is a remote operator, the vehicle driving assistance device 10 is mounted on the vehicle 100 and on a remote operating device installed outside the vehicle 100 for remote driving. The functions of the vehicle driving assistance device 10 described below are performed by the vehicle driving assistance device 10 mounted on the vehicle 100 and the vehicle driving assistance device 10 mounted on the remote operating device, respectively.

[0062] Furthermore, the present invention can be applied to vehicles that operate autonomously, without requiring driving by a driver or remote operator. Therefore, when the vehicle 100 is operating autonomously, the display device described later can display the results of a comprehensive evaluation for passengers of the vehicle 100 or remote monitors who monitor the operation of the vehicle 100 via a remote operating device.

[0063] like Figure 1As shown, the vehicle driving assistance device 10 includes an ECU (electronic control unit) 90 as a control device. The ECU 90 has a microcomputer as its main component. The microcomputer includes storage media such as a CPU, ROM, RAM, and non-volatile memory, as well as interfaces. The CPU performs various functions by executing instructions, programs, or routines stored in the storage media. In particular, in this example, the vehicle driving assistance device 10 stores programs that implement the various controls performed by the vehicle driving assistance device 10 in the storage media.

[0064] Furthermore, in this example, the vehicle driving assistance device 10 has only one ECU 90, but it can also be configured to have multiple ECUs, with each ECU sharing the functions of the vehicle driving assistance device 10 as described below.

[0065] Alternatively, the vehicle driving assistance device 10 may be configured to update the program stored in the storage medium via wireless communication with an external device (e.g., Internet communication).

[0066] The vehicle 100 is equipped with a power unit 20, a braking device 30, a display device 40, a peripheral information detection device 50, and an auxiliary function switch 60.

[0067] The power unit 20 is a device that generates power applied to the vehicle 100 (particularly the drive wheels of the vehicle 100), and in this example, it includes an internal combustion engine 21 and an electric motor 22. The power unit 20 is electrically connected to the ECU 90. The vehicle driving assistance device 10 can control the power applied to the vehicle 100 by controlling the operation of the internal combustion engine 21 and the electric motor 22.

[0068] The braking device 30 is a device that applies braking force to the vehicle 100 (particularly the wheels of the vehicle 100). In this example, it includes a hydraulic braking device 31. The braking device 30 is electrically connected to the ECU 90. The vehicle driving assistance device 10 can control the braking force applied to the vehicle 100 by controlling the operation of the hydraulic braking device 31.

[0069] Display device 40 is a device for displaying various images to the driver of vehicle 100. In this example, it includes display screen 41. Display device 40 is electrically connected to ECU 90. Vehicle driving assistance device 10 can display various images on display screen 41 via display device 40.

[0070] In particular, the display device 40 displays information related to the auxiliary systems used in the vehicle 100, described later, and the vehicle driving assistance device 10 controls the operation of the display device 40.

[0071] The surrounding information detection device 50 is a device for detecting information about the surroundings of the vehicle 100. In this example, it includes an electromagnetic wave sensor 51 and an image sensor 52. The surrounding information detection device 50 is electrically connected to the ECU 90.

[0072] The electromagnetic wave sensor 51 is, for example, an acoustic sensor such as a radar sensor (millimeter-wave radar, etc.), an ultrasonic sensor (gap sonar), or an optical sensor such as a lidar (LiDAR). The vehicle driving assistance device 10 obtains information about objects existing around the vehicle 100 through the electromagnetic wave sensor 51 as surrounding detection information IS.

[0073] Image sensor 52 is, for example, a camera sensor. The vehicle driving assistance device 10 acquires image information related to the surroundings of the vehicle 100 via image sensor 52 as surroundings detection information IS.

[0074] The vehicle driving assistance device 10 is able to obtain various information such as the distance from the vehicle 100 to the vehicle in front using known methods based on the surrounding detection information IS.

[0075] The auxiliary function switch 60 is operated by the driver of the vehicle 100 to activate or deactivate various auxiliary functions of the auxiliary system. Therefore, by operating the auxiliary function switch 60, the driver can activate or deactivate the auxiliary functions individually. Furthermore, for auxiliary functions with multiple control modes, the driver can also activate the auxiliary function in a specific control mode by operating the auxiliary function switch 60. In other words, the driver can select the operating state of the auxiliary function by operating the auxiliary function switch 60.

[0076] Furthermore, the assistance system is a system used for the utilization of this vehicle 100. In particular, the assistance system described below is a system that assists the driver in driving this vehicle 100. In addition, the assistance functions are functions that provide various forms of assistance to a person using the display device 40 (the user of the display device 40). In particular, the assistance functions described below are functions that provide various forms of assistance to the driver of this vehicle 100. In addition, the assistance functions may include an automatic driving function that automatically drives this vehicle 100. Furthermore, the user of the display device 40 includes, for example, the occupants of this vehicle 100, including the driver, as well as remote operators who remotely drive this vehicle 100 via a remote operating device, and remote monitors who monitor the status of this vehicle 100 driving in automatic driving mode via a remote operating device.

[0077] In this example, as auxiliary functions, the auxiliary system has normal following function, coasting following function, air resistance reduction driving function, acceleration setting function, air conditioning intensity setting function, speed limit function, and following function.

[0078] <Normal Follow Function>

[0079] Normal following function, also known as normal following control or adaptive cruise control, is an auxiliary function that enables the vehicle to accelerate and decelerate autonomously. Normal following function has three control modes: off, normal following mode, and normal speed control mode.

[0080] Normally, the "follow-the-car" function is disabled in the off mode, which stops the normal following-the-car function from working.

[0081] Additionally, the normal following mode of the follow function is as follows: Figure 2A As shown, this is one of the following driving modes in which the vehicle 100 autonomously accelerates and decelerates to follow the preceding vehicle 200 when the preceding vehicle 200 is present. More specifically, the normal following driving mode of the normal following driving function is a following driving mode in which the vehicle 100 autonomously accelerates and decelerates to follow the preceding vehicle 200 by maintaining a target distance DF (distance between the preceding vehicle 200 and the vehicle 100) as the target distance DFtgt.

[0082] In addition, the normal speed control mode of the follow function is as follows: Figure 2B As shown, when there is no preceding vehicle 200, the vehicle 100 maintains its own speed (vehicle speed V) at the set speed Vset, thereby enabling the vehicle 100 to accelerate or decelerate autonomously and thus move.

[0083] Furthermore, the preceding vehicle 200 refers to other vehicles traveling within a certain distance DFpre ahead of this vehicle 100 in its own lane (the lane in which this vehicle 100 is currently traveling). Additionally, the target distance DFtgt is the target distance DF used in normal following driving mode. Furthermore, the target distance DFtgt is a distance shorter than the certain distance DFpre. Additionally, the set speed Vset is the target vehicle speed V used in speed control mode.

[0084] The driver can select whether the normal following function is active or inactive (off mode) by operating the auxiliary function switch 60. When the normal following function is active, the vehicle driving assistance device 10 operates in normal following mode when there is a vehicle ahead 200, and operates in normal speed control mode when there is no vehicle ahead 200.

[0085] <Lazy Follow Function>

[0086] The coasting follow function, also known as coasting follow control, is an auxiliary function that enables the vehicle to accelerate and decelerate autonomously. The coasting follow function has three control modes: off, coasting acceleration / deceleration, and normal acceleration / deceleration. Furthermore, the coasting acceleration / deceleration mode includes both coasting follow mode and coasting speed control mode. Additionally, the normal acceleration / deceleration mode is an auxiliary function that includes both normal follow mode and normal speed control mode.

[0087] The "off mode" for the coaster following function is a mode that stops the coaster following function from working.

[0088] Furthermore, the coasting follow mode is one of the following modes in which the vehicle 100 autonomously accelerates and decelerates in a manner that allows it to follow the preceding vehicle 200. In particular, in this example, the coasting follow mode has a coasting deceleration mode and an acceleration mode as control modes.

[0089] The coasting deceleration mode is a mode that decelerates the vehicle 100 by coasting. The acceleration mode, on the other hand, is a mode that accelerates the vehicle 100. Specifically, the acceleration mode is the optimal acceleration mode that allows the power unit 20 to operate at its best energy efficiency, thus accelerating the vehicle 100.

[0090] When the coasting follow function is operating in the acceleration mode of the coasting follow mode, and the distance DF decreases and reaches the lower limit of the set distance range Rdf, the control mode switches from acceleration mode to coasting deceleration mode. On the other hand, when the coasting follow function is operating in the coasting deceleration mode of the coasting follow mode, and the distance DF increases and reaches the upper limit of the set distance range Rdf, the control mode switches from coasting deceleration mode to acceleration mode.

[0091] Furthermore, the coasting speed control mode is one of the vehicle speed control modes that allows the vehicle 100 to accelerate or decelerate autonomously while maintaining its speed within a set speed range Rv, when there is no preceding vehicle 200. In particular, in this example, the coasting speed control mode includes both a coasting deceleration mode and an acceleration mode as control modes.

[0092] Similar to the coast deceleration mode of the coast following driving mode, the coast deceleration mode of the coast speed control mode also decelerates the vehicle by coasting at 100 km / h. Furthermore, similar to the acceleration mode of the coast following driving mode, the acceleration mode of the coast speed control mode also accelerates the vehicle at 100 km / h. In particular, similar to the acceleration mode of the coast following driving mode, the acceleration mode of the coast speed control mode is also the optimal acceleration mode that allows the power unit 20 to operate at its best energy efficiency, thus accelerating the vehicle at 100 km / h.

[0093] When the coast-following function is operating in the acceleration mode of the coast-speed control mode, and the vehicle speed V increases and reaches the upper limit of the set speed range Rv, the control mode switches from acceleration mode to coast-deceleration mode. Conversely, when the coast-following function is operating in the coast-deceleration mode of the coast-speed control mode, and the vehicle speed V decreases and reaches the lower limit of the set speed range Rv, the control mode switches from coast-deceleration mode to acceleration mode.

[0094] In addition, the normal following mode of the normal acceleration / deceleration mode of the coasting follow function is the same as the normal following mode of the normal following function mentioned above.

[0095] In addition, the normal speed control mode of the normal acceleration / deceleration mode of the coasting follow function is the same as the normal speed control mode of the normal follow function mentioned above.

[0096] By operating the auxiliary function switch 60, the driver can select whether the coasting follow function is in the active state or in the inactive state (off mode).

[0097] When the coasting following function is in operation, the vehicle driving assistance device 10 enables the coasting following function to operate in coasting acceleration / deceleration mode when the specified conditions (execution possibility condition Cexe) are met, and enables the coasting following function to operate in normal acceleration / deceleration mode when the execution possibility condition Cexe is not met.

[0098] In addition, when the vehicle driving assistance device 10 operates the coasting following function in coasting acceleration mode, it operates the coasting following function in coasting following mode when there is a preceding vehicle 200, and operates the coasting following function in coasting speed control mode when there is no preceding vehicle 200.

[0099] In addition, when the vehicle driving assistance device 10 operates the coasting following function in the normal acceleration and deceleration mode, it operates the coasting following function in the normal following mode when there is a vehicle ahead 200, and operates the coasting following function in the normal vehicle speed control mode when there is no vehicle ahead 200.

[0100] The possible condition for execution, Cexe, is, for example, that the distance between the preceding vehicle 200 and the following vehicle is greater than a specified distance. The following vehicle is another vehicle traveling in the same lane that is within a certain distance DRpre behind this vehicle, at a distance of 100 behind it.

[0101] <Air resistance reduction driving function>

[0102] The air resistance reduction driving function is an auxiliary function that has at least an off mode and an air resistance reduction driving mode as control modes.

[0103] The off mode of the air resistance reduction driving function is a mode that stops the operation of this air resistance reduction driving function.

[0104] In addition, the air resistance reduction driving mode is a mode that sets the target distance DFtgt by increasing the air resistance reduction effect of the preceding vehicle 200 on the vehicle 100 when the normal following function or the coasting following function is in operation.

[0105] When vehicle 100 follows vehicle 200, the shorter the distance DF, the less air resistance vehicle 100 experiences, resulting in lower energy consumption. Furthermore, when vehicle 100 follows vehicle 200, the larger the vertical projected area VPA of vehicle 200, the less air resistance vehicle 100 experiences, again resulting in lower energy consumption. However, if the distance DF is extremely short, vehicle 100 may rear-end vehicle 200 if vehicle 200 decelerates suddenly.

[0106] More specifically, the air resistance reduction driving mode is a mode that, when the normal following function or the coasting following function is in operation, sets a target distance DFtgt that is appropriate for reducing the air resistance experienced by the vehicle 100 by driving behind the preceding vehicle 200, and takes into account the vehicle speed V, so that the vehicle 100 will not rear-end the preceding vehicle 200 due to sudden deceleration of the preceding vehicle 200.

[0107] The higher the vehicle speed V, the higher the risk of a rear-end collision between this vehicle 100 and the vehicle in front 200. Therefore, the faster this vehicle 100 goes, the shorter the distance DFtgt to the target vehicle is set.

[0108] The target distance DFtgt set by reducing air resistance in the driving mode is used as the target distance DFtgt in the normal following function and the coasting following function.

[0109] Furthermore, the vertical projected area VPA of the traveling vehicle 200 is the area of ​​the traveling vehicle 200 when it is projected onto a vertical plane perpendicular to the front and rear horizontal lines (lines that extend horizontally in the length direction of the traveling vehicle 200).

[0110] The driver can select whether the air resistance reduction driving function is active or inactive by operating the auxiliary function switch 60. When the air resistance reduction driving function is active, the vehicle driving assistance device 10 operates the air resistance reduction driving function in the air resistance reduction driving mode.

[0111] <Acceleration Setting Function>

[0112] The acceleration setting function has at least three auxiliary functions as control modes: off mode, high acceleration mode (power mode), normal acceleration mode (normal mode), and low acceleration mode (energy saving mode).

[0113] The acceleration setting function's off mode disables its operation. The high acceleration mode accelerates the vehicle 100 with a greater acceleration relative to a certain change in the amount of accelerator pedal operation. The normal acceleration mode accelerates the vehicle 100 with a moderate (baseline) acceleration relative to a certain change in the amount of accelerator pedal operation. The low acceleration mode accelerates the vehicle 100 with a smaller acceleration relative to a certain change in the amount of accelerator pedal operation.

[0114] The driver can select whether the auxiliary function switch 60 is active or inactive (off mode). Furthermore, when the acceleration setting function is active, the driver can select which control mode—high acceleration mode, normal acceleration mode, or low acceleration mode—to operate the function. When the acceleration setting function is active, the vehicle driving assistance device 10 operates the acceleration setting function in the selected control mode.

[0115] <Air Conditioner Intensity Setting Function>

[0116] The air conditioning intensity setting function has at least an off mode, a low mode, a medium mode, and a high mode as auxiliary functions for the control mode.

[0117] The "Off" mode for the air conditioning intensity setting function disables this function, effectively stopping the air conditioning from operating in this vehicle. The "Weak" mode operates the air conditioning at a low cooling / heating level. The "Medium" mode operates the air conditioning at a moderate cooling / heating level. The "Strong" mode operates the air conditioning at a high cooling / heating level.

[0118] The driver can select whether the air conditioning intensity setting function is active or inactive by operating the auxiliary function switch 60. Additionally, the driver can select which control mode the air conditioning intensity setting function operates in: strong, medium, weak, or off. When the air conditioning intensity setting function is active, the vehicle driving assistance device 10 operates the air conditioning intensity setting function in the selected control mode.

[0119] <Speed ​​Limiting Function>

[0120] The speed limit function is an auxiliary function that has at least an off mode and a speed limit mode as control modes.

[0121] The off mode for the speed limit function disables the function. The speed limit mode controls the vehicle's speed V to prevent it from exceeding the speed limit Vlimit.

[0122] The driver can select whether the speed limiting function is active or inactive (off mode) by operating the assist function switch 60. Additionally, the driver can set the speed limit Vlimit by operating the assist function switch 60. When the speed limiting function is active, the vehicle driving assistance device 10 operates the speed limiting function in speed limiting mode.

[0123] <Follow-the-car function>

[0124] The follow-drive function is an auxiliary function that includes the normal follow-drive function and the coast follow-drive function described above. Therefore, the follow-drive function is an auxiliary function that has at least an off mode, the normal follow-drive mode described above, the normal speed control mode described above, the coast acceleration / deceleration mode described above, and the normal acceleration / deceleration mode described above as control modes.

[0125] The "Follow-along" function's off mode disables the following function. In other words, the "Follow-along" function's off mode disables both the normal following function and the coasting following function.

[0126] By operating the auxiliary function switch 60, the driver can select whether the following function is active or inactive (off mode). Additionally, by operating the auxiliary function switch 60, the driver can select whether the normal following function or the coasting following function is active.

[0127] In addition to the aforementioned auxiliary functions, the assistance system may also include lane keeping assist, automatic lane changing assist, automatic overtaking assist, automatic lane splitting assist, automatic merging assist, lane departure warning assist, lane departure prevention assist, blind spot monitoring assist, other vehicle approach warning assist, pedestrian approach warning assist, automatic high beam switching assist, automatic headlight steering assist, automatic headlight and fog light activation assist, automatic windshield wiper operation assist, automatic defrost operation assist, automatic surrounding condition alert assist, automatic start-up assist in congestion assist, automatic hazard warning light activation assist, automatic air conditioning recirculation switching assist, automatic seat position adjustment assist, automatic congestion information display assist, automatic video playback assist, automatic audio volume adjustment assist, and rapid acceleration reduction assist, among other auxiliary functions.

[0128] Lane Keeping Function

[0129] Lane keeping assist function is an auxiliary function that has at least an off mode and a lane keeping mode as control modes.

[0130] The lane keeping function's off mode is a mode that stops the lane keeping function from operating. The lane keeping mode, on the other hand, is a mode that allows the vehicle 100 to be autonomously steered in a way that returns it to the center of the lane when it has moved a predetermined distance from the center of the lane.

[0131] The driver can select whether the lane keeping function is active or inactive (off mode) by operating the assist function switch 60. When the lane keeping function is active, the vehicle driving assistance device 10 enables the lane keeping function to operate in lane keeping mode.

[0132] Automatic lane change function

[0133] The automatic lane change function is an auxiliary function that has at least an off mode and an automatic lane change mode as control modes.

[0134] The automatic lane change function's off mode is a mode that stops the automatic lane change function from operating. The automatic lane change mode, on the other hand, is a mode in which the vehicle 100 is autonomously accelerated or decelerated while being autonomously steered, as needed, to change lanes.

[0135] The driver can select whether the automatic lane change function is active or inactive (off mode) by operating the auxiliary function switch 60. When the automatic lane change function is active, the vehicle driving assistance device 10 enables the automatic lane change function to operate in automatic lane change mode.

[0136] Automatic overtaking function

[0137] The automatic overtaking function is an auxiliary function that has at least a closed mode and an automatic overtaking mode as control modes.

[0138] The automatic overtaking function's off mode is a mode that stops the automatic overtaking function from operating. The automatic overtaking mode, on the other hand, is a mode in which the vehicle 100 autonomously accelerates and decelerates while autonomously steering itself, allowing it to overtake the vehicle 200 ahead, as needed.

[0139] The driver can select whether the automatic overtaking function is active or inactive (off mode) by operating the auxiliary function switch 60. When the automatic overtaking function is active, the vehicle driving assistance device 10 enables the automatic overtaking function to operate in automatic overtaking mode.

[0140] Automatic traffic splitting function

[0141] The automatic diversion function is an auxiliary function that has at least a shutdown mode and an automatic diversion mode as control modes.

[0142] The automatic diversion function's off mode is a mode that stops the automatic diversion function from operating. The automatic diversion mode, on the other hand, is a mode in which the vehicle 100 is autonomously accelerated or decelerated while being autonomously steered, allowing it to enter lanes (branch lanes or deceleration lanes) branching off from the main lanes of the highway as needed.

[0143] The driver can select whether the automatic diversion function is active or inactive (off mode) by operating the auxiliary function switch 60. When the automatic diversion function is active, the vehicle driving assistance device 10 enables the automatic diversion function to operate in automatic diversion mode.

[0144] Automatic merging function

[0145] The automatic merging function is an auxiliary function that has at least an off mode and an automatic merging mode as control modes.

[0146] The automatic merging function's off mode is a mode that stops the automatic merging function from operating. The automatic merging mode, on the other hand, is a mode in which the vehicle 100 autonomously accelerates or decelerates while simultaneously being autonomously steered, allowing it to enter the main lane of the highway from a merging lane (merging lane or acceleration lane) as needed.

[0147] The driver can select whether the automatic merging function is active or inactive (off mode) by operating the auxiliary function switch 60. When the automatic merging function is active, the vehicle driving assistance device 10 enables the automatic merging function to operate in automatic merging mode.

[0148] Lane departure warning function

[0149] The lane departure warning function is an auxiliary function that has at least an off mode and a lane departure warning mode as control modes.

[0150] The lane departure warning function's off mode is a mode that disables the lane departure function. The lane departure warning mode, on the other hand, uses known methods to monitor whether the vehicle 100 is likely to leave the lane, and issues a warning to the driver when it is determined that the vehicle 100 is likely to leave the lane.

[0151] The driver can select whether the lane departure warning function is active or inactive (off mode) by operating the auxiliary function switch 60. When the lane departure warning function is active, the vehicle driving assistance device 10 activates the lane departure warning function in lane departure warning mode.

[0152] Lane departure prevention function

[0153] Lane departure prevention function is an auxiliary function that has at least a closed mode and a lane departure prevention mode as control modes.

[0154] The lane departure prevention function's off mode is a mode in which the operation of the lane departure prevention function is stopped. The lane departure prevention mode, on the other hand, uses known methods to monitor whether the vehicle 100 is likely to leave the lane, and autonomously steers the vehicle 100 by moving it to the center of the lane when it is determined that the vehicle 100 is likely to leave the lane.

[0155] The driver can select whether the lane departure prevention function is active or inactive (off mode) by operating the auxiliary function switch 60. When the lane departure prevention function is active, the vehicle driving assistance device 10 activates the lane departure prevention function in lane departure prevention mode.

[0156] <Blind Spot Monitoring Function>

[0157] The blind spot monitoring function is an auxiliary function that has at least an off mode and a blind spot monitoring mode as control modes.

[0158] The blind spot monitoring function's off mode is a mode in which the blind spot monitoring function is stopped. The blind spot monitoring mode is a mode in which the images captured by the blind spot monitoring are displayed on the display device 40. The blind spot monitoring system is installed in the vehicle 100 in a manner that allows it to capture images of areas that are blind spots for the driver or areas that are difficult for the driver to visually inspect.

[0159] The driver can select whether the blind spot monitoring function is active or inactive (off mode) by operating the auxiliary function switch 60. When the blind spot monitoring function is active, the vehicle driving assistance device 10 enables the blind spot monitoring function to operate in blind spot monitoring mode.

[0160] <Other vehicle proximity alarm functions>

[0161] Other vehicle proximity alarm functions are at least auxiliary functions that include an off mode and other vehicle proximity alarm modes as control modes.

[0162] The off mode of the other vehicle proximity warning function is a mode in which the operation of the other vehicle proximity warning function is stopped. The other vehicle proximity warning mode, on the other hand, uses known methods to monitor for the presence of other vehicles approaching within a predetermined distance of 100 units from the vehicle, and issues an alarm to the driver when it is determined that other vehicles are approaching within a predetermined distance of 100 units from the vehicle.

[0163] The driver can select whether the other vehicle approach warning function is active or inactive (off mode) by operating the auxiliary function switch 60. When the other vehicle approach warning function is active, the vehicle driving assistance device 10 enables the other vehicle approach warning function to operate in the other vehicle approach warning mode.

[0164] <Pedestrian Approach Alert Function>

[0165] The pedestrian approach alarm function is an auxiliary function that has at least an off mode and a pedestrian approach alarm mode as control modes.

[0166] The pedestrian approach warning function's off mode is a mode that stops the pedestrian approach warning function from operating. The pedestrian approach warning mode, on the other hand, uses known methods to monitor for pedestrians approaching within a predetermined distance of 100 units from the vehicle, and issues an alarm to the driver when it is determined that a pedestrian is approaching within this predetermined distance.

[0167] The driver can select whether the pedestrian approach warning function is active or inactive (off mode) by operating the auxiliary function switch 60. When the pedestrian approach warning function is active, the vehicle driving assistance device 10 enables the pedestrian approach warning function to operate in pedestrian approach warning mode.

[0168] Automatic High Beam Switching Function

[0169] The automatic high beam switching function is an auxiliary function that has at least an off mode and an automatic high beam switching mode as control modes.

[0170] The automatic high beam switching function's off mode is a mode that stops the operation of this function. The automatic high beam switching mode is as follows: using known methods, it monitors whether there is an oncoming vehicle or pedestrian in front of the vehicle 100, and automatically switches the headlights from high beam mode to low beam mode and illuminates them when it determines that there is an oncoming vehicle or pedestrian in front of the vehicle 100; and automatically switches the headlights from low beam mode to high beam mode and illuminates them when it determines that there is no oncoming vehicle or pedestrian in front of the vehicle 100.

[0171] The driver can select whether the automatic high beam switching function is active or inactive (off mode) by operating the auxiliary function switch 60. When the automatic high beam switching function is active, the vehicle driving assistance device 10 enables the automatic high beam switching function to operate in the automatic high beam switching mode.

[0172] Automatic headlight steering function

[0173] The automatic headlight steering function is an auxiliary function that has at least an off mode and an automatic headlight steering mode as control modes.

[0174] The off mode of the automatic headlight direction control function is a mode in which the operation of the automatic headlight direction control function is stopped. The automatic headlight direction control mode is a mode in which the situation in front of the vehicle 100 is obtained using known methods, and the direction of the headlights of the vehicle 100 is automatically changed to an appropriate direction based on that situation.

[0175] The driver can select whether the automatic headlight steering function is active or inactive by operating the auxiliary function switch 60. When the automatic headlight steering function is active, the vehicle driving assistance device 10 enables the automatic headlight steering function to operate in the automatic headlight steering mode.

[0176] Automatic headlight and fog light activation function

[0177] The automatic headlight and fog light activation function is an auxiliary function that has at least an off mode and an automatic headlight and fog light activation mode as control modes.

[0178] The off mode of the automatic headlight and fog light activation function is a mode in which the operation of the automatic headlight and fog light activation function is stopped. The automatic headlight and fog light activation mode is as follows: It monitors the surrounding conditions of the vehicle 100 using a known method (vehicle surrounding conditions), and automatically activates the headlights when it is determined, based on the vehicle surrounding conditions, that the headlights of the vehicle 100 need to be activated; and automatically deactivates the headlights when it is determined, based on the vehicle surrounding conditions, that the fog lights of the vehicle 100 need to be activated; and automatically deactivates the fog lights when it is determined, based on the vehicle surrounding conditions, that the fog lights do not need to be activated.

[0179] The driver can select whether the automatic headlight and fog light illumination function is active or inactive (off mode) by operating the auxiliary function switch 60. When the automatic headlight and fog light illumination function is active, the vehicle driving assistance device 10 enables the automatic headlight and fog light illumination function to operate in the automatic headlight and fog light illumination mode.

[0180] Automatic wiper function

[0181] The automatic wiper function is an auxiliary function that includes at least an off mode and an automatic wiper mode as control modes.

[0182] The automatic wiper operation mode is a mode in which the automatic wiper operation function is stopped. The automatic wiper operation mode is as follows: It monitors the surrounding conditions of the vehicle 100 using a known method (vehicle surrounding conditions), and automatically activates the wipers when it is determined, based on the vehicle surrounding conditions, that the wipers of the vehicle 100 need to operate; and automatically stops the wipers when it is determined, based on the aforementioned vehicle surrounding conditions, that the wipers of the vehicle 100 do not need to operate.

[0183] The driver can select whether the automatic wiper function is active or inactive (off mode) by operating the auxiliary function switch 60. When the automatic wiper function is active, the vehicle driving assistance device 10 enables the automatic wiper function to operate in the automatic wiper mode.

[0184] <Automatic defrosting function>

[0185] The automatic defrost function is an auxiliary function that includes at least a shutdown mode and an automatic defrost mode as control modes.

[0186] The automatic defroster operation mode is a mode in which the automatic defroster operation function is stopped. The automatic defroster operation mode is as follows: The state of the windshield and rear windshield of the vehicle 100 is monitored using a known method, and the defroster is automatically activated when the state of the windshield indicates that the vehicle 100's defroster needs to operate; the operation of the defroster is automatically stopped when the state of the windshield indicates that the vehicle 100's defroster does not need to operate.

[0187] The driver can select whether the automatic defrost function is active or inactive (off mode) by operating the auxiliary function switch 60. When the automatic defrost function is active, the vehicle driving assistance device 10 enables the automatic defrost function to operate in the automatic defrost mode.

[0188] Automatic surrounding conditions alert function

[0189] The automatic surrounding conditions alert function is an auxiliary function that has at least an off mode and an automatic surrounding conditions alert mode as the control mode.

[0190] The automatic surrounding conditions alert function's off mode is a mode that stops the automatic surrounding conditions alert function from operating. The automatic surrounding conditions alert mode, on the other hand, uses known methods to obtain the surrounding conditions of the vehicle 100 and automatically displays these conditions on the display device 40 as needed to alert the driver.

[0191] The driver can select whether the automatic surrounding conditions alert function is active or inactive (off mode) by operating the auxiliary function switch 60. When the automatic surrounding conditions alert function is active, the vehicle driving assistance device 10 enables the automatic surrounding conditions alert function to operate in the automatic surrounding conditions alert mode.

[0192] Automatic start-up function during traffic congestion

[0193] The automatic start-up function in traffic jams is an auxiliary function that has at least a shutdown mode and an automatic start-up mode in traffic jams as control modes.

[0194] The "Off" mode for the automatic start-up function in congestion disables the function. The "Automatic Start-up in Congestion" mode, on the other hand, automatically restarts the vehicle 100 when traffic congestion occurs ahead, enabling the vehicle 100 to resume operation even if it is currently stopped due to the congestion.

[0195] The driver can select whether the automatic start-in-congestion function is active or inactive (off mode) by operating the auxiliary function switch 60. When the automatic start-in-congestion function is active, the vehicle driving assistance device 10 enables the automatic start-in-congestion function to operate in the automatic start-in-congestion mode.

[0196] Automatic hazard warning light function

[0197] The automatic hazard warning light activation function is an auxiliary function that includes at least an off mode and an automatic hazard warning light activation mode as control modes.

[0198] The automatic hazard warning light activation mode is the off mode, which disables the automatic hazard warning light activation function. The automatic hazard warning light activation mode is used when traffic congestion occurs ahead of vehicle 100, causing vehicle 100 to slow down and its speed V to decrease. The hazard warning lights then automatically turn off.

[0199] The driver can select whether the automatic hazard warning light illumination function is active or inactive (off mode) by operating the auxiliary function switch 60. When the automatic hazard warning light illumination function is active, the vehicle driving assistance device 10 will operate the automatic hazard warning light illumination function in the automatic hazard warning light illumination mode.

[0200] Automatic air conditioning recirculation switching function

[0201] The automatic air circulation switching function of the air conditioner is an auxiliary function that has at least a shutdown mode and an automatic air circulation switching mode as control modes.

[0202] The "off" mode of the automatic air recirculation switching function for the air conditioning system disables its operation. The automatic air recirculation switching mode is as follows: In the event of traffic congestion ahead of vehicle 100, when the vehicle 100 is stationary due to the congestion or traveling at a very low speed (condition Csw), the system automatically switches the air recirculation from external air recirculation to internal air recirculation. When the aforementioned switching condition Csw is no longer met, the system automatically switches back to external air recirculation.

[0203] The driver can select whether the automatic air conditioning recirculation switching function is active or inactive (off mode) by operating the auxiliary function switch 60. When the automatic air conditioning recirculation switching function is active, the vehicle driving assistance device 10 enables the automatic air conditioning recirculation switching function to operate in the automatic air conditioning recirculation switching mode.

[0204] In addition, the external air recirculation is an air circulation system that draws outside air into the interior of the vehicle 100 through the air conditioning system and exhausts the air inside the vehicle 100 to the outside of the vehicle 100. Conversely, the internal air recirculation is an air circulation system that draws air from the interior of the vehicle 100 through the air conditioning system and returns that air to the interior of the vehicle 100.

[0205] Automatic seat position adjustment function

[0206] The automatic seat position change function is an auxiliary function that has at least an off mode and an automatic seat position change mode as control modes.

[0207] The automatic seat position adjustment function is disabled in the off mode, meaning the function is stopped. The automatic seat position adjustment mode, on the other hand, automatically moves the driver's seat to a suitable position when traffic congestion occurs ahead of the vehicle 100.

[0208] The driver can select whether the automatic seat position change function is active or inactive (off mode) by operating the auxiliary function switch 60. When the automatic seat position change function is active, the vehicle driving assistance device 10 enables the automatic seat position change function to operate in the automatic seat position change mode.

[0209] Automatic traffic congestion information display function

[0210] The automatic congestion information display function is an auxiliary function that has at least an off mode and an automatic congestion information display mode as control modes.

[0211] The automatic congestion information display function is disabled in the off mode, which stops the automatic congestion information display function from working. The automatic congestion information display mode, on the other hand, automatically displays information related to traffic congestion on the display device 40 when traffic congestion occurs ahead of the vehicle 100.

[0212] The driver can select whether the automatic congestion information display function is active or inactive (off mode) by operating the auxiliary function switch 60. When the automatic congestion information display function is active, the vehicle driving assistance device 10 enables the automatic congestion information display function to operate in the automatic congestion information display mode.

[0213] <Automatic video playback function>

[0214] The video autoplay function is an auxiliary function that at least has an off mode and a video autoplay mode as control modes.

[0215] The "off" mode for the video autoplay function stops its operation. The "autoplay" mode, on the other hand, automatically plays video when the vehicle 100 is stopped due to traffic congestion ahead.

[0216] The driver can select whether the automatic video playback function is active or inactive (off mode) by operating the auxiliary function switch 60. When the automatic video playback function is active, the vehicle driving assistance device 10 enables the automatic video playback function to operate in automatic video playback mode.

[0217] Automatic audio volume adjustment function

[0218] The automatic audio volume adjustment function is an auxiliary function that has at least an off mode and an automatic audio volume adjustment mode as control modes.

[0219] The "Off" mode for the automatic audio volume adjustment function disables this function. The "Automatic Audio Volume Adjustment Mode" automatically adjusts the audio volume of vehicle 100 based on its speed V when traffic congestion occurs ahead.

[0220] The driver can select whether the automatic audio volume adjustment function is active or inactive (off mode) by operating the auxiliary function switch 60. When the automatic audio volume adjustment function is active, the vehicle driving assistance device 10 enables the automatic audio volume adjustment function to operate in the automatic audio volume adjustment mode.

[0221] <Driving speed reduction function>

[0222] The dynamism reduction driving function is an auxiliary function that has at least an off mode and a dynamism reduction driving mode as control modes.

[0223] The deactivation mode of the acceleration reduction driving function is a mode that stops the operation of this acceleration reduction driving function. In addition, the acceleration reduction driving mode is a mode that automatically limits the acceleration of the vehicle 100 in the event of traffic congestion in front of the vehicle 100, so as to prevent the acceleration (rate of acceleration) of the vehicle 100 from exceeding a certain value.

[0224] By operating the auxiliary function switch 60, the driver can select whether the emergency braking function is active or inactive (off mode). When the emergency braking function is active, the vehicle driving assistance device 10 enables the emergency braking function to operate in emergency braking mode.

[0225] <The operation of vehicle driving assistance devices>

[0226] Next, the operation of the vehicle driving assistance device 10 will be explained. The vehicle driving assistance device 10 is configured to perform operations at predetermined calculation intervals. Figure 3 The example shown performs a comprehensive evaluation of the utilization of the auxiliary system based on the operating states of each of the aforementioned auxiliary functions, and displays the results of this comprehensive evaluation on the display device 40.

[0227] <Work Example 1>

[0228] First, the operation of the vehicle driving assistance device 10 will be explained when the assistance functions that are the object of comprehensive evaluation are the coasting following function and the air resistance reduction driving function.

[0229] When the designated time is reached, the vehicle driving assistance device 10... Figure 3 The routine shown begins processing from step S300, proceeding to step S305, where it is determined whether the assistance system is working, i.e., whether at least one of the assistance functions being evaluated by the vehicle driving assistance device 10 is working. In this example, since the assistance functions being evaluated by the vehicle driving assistance device 10 are the coasting follow function and the air resistance reduction function, it is determined whether at least one of these two functions is working.

[0230] If the vehicle driving assistance device 10 determines "yes" in step S305, the process proceeds to step S310, and the total evaluation value EVtotal is obtained as described below.

[0231] In this example, such as Figure 4 As shown, an evaluation value EV is set for each operating state of the coasting follow function and the air resistance reduction driving function. That is, for the coasting follow function, an evaluation value EV is set for each operating state as follows.

[0232] (1) When the coasting follow function is turned off, an evaluation value of "0" EV is set. That is, when the coasting follow function is turned off, an evaluation value of "0" EV is set.

[0233] (2) For the coasting follow function operating in normal acceleration and deceleration mode, an evaluation value of "0" EV is set. That is, for the coasting follow function in normal acceleration and deceleration mode, an evaluation value of "0" EV is set.

[0234] (3) For the operation state of the coast following function in the acceleration mode of the coast following mode, an evaluation value of "1" EV is set. That is, for the acceleration mode of the coast following mode of the coast following function, an evaluation value of "1" EV is set.

[0235] (4) For the operation state of the coast following function in the coast deceleration mode of the coast following mode, an evaluation value of "3" EV is set. That is, for the coast deceleration mode of the coast following mode of the coast following function, an evaluation value of "3" EV is set.

[0236] Compared to when the coast-following function operates in its normal acceleration / deceleration mode, operating the coast-following function in its acceleration mode contributes more significantly to reducing the energy consumption of vehicle 100. That is, when the coast-following function operates in its acceleration mode, energy is consumed to accelerate vehicle 100, resulting in higher energy consumption at that point. However, the operation of the coast-following function in its acceleration mode is necessary for it to subsequently operate in its coast-following deceleration mode. It is because of this operation that the coast-following function can later operate in its coast-following deceleration mode. Therefore, it can be said that operating the coast-following function in its acceleration mode contributes more significantly to reducing the energy consumption of vehicle 100 compared to when it operates in its normal acceleration / deceleration mode. Therefore, the evaluation value EV for the operation state of the coast following function in the acceleration mode of coast following mode is set to a higher value compared to the evaluation value EV for the operation state of the coast following function in the normal acceleration and deceleration mode.

[0237] Furthermore, compared to when the coast following function operates in normal acceleration / deceleration mode or in acceleration mode of coast following mode, the coast following function's operation in coast deceleration mode of coast following mode contributes more to reducing the vehicle's energy consumption by 100%. Therefore, the evaluation value EV for the operation state of the coast following function in coast deceleration mode of coast following mode is set to a higher value than the evaluation value EV for the operation state of the coast following function operating in normal acceleration / deceleration mode and the evaluation value EV for the operation state of the coast following function operating in acceleration mode of coast following mode.

[0238] As such, the greater the degree to which the coasting follow function helps reduce the vehicle's energy consumption by 100%, the higher the EV rating is set.

[0239] In addition, as can be seen from the above explanation, the operating state of the coasting follow function is the control mode that the coasting follow function is currently executing (off mode, normal acceleration and deceleration mode, acceleration mode of coasting follow mode, and coasting deceleration mode of coasting follow mode).

[0240] In addition, such as Figure 4 As shown below, the air resistance reduction driving function has an evaluation value (EV) set for each driving state, as described below.

[0241] In this example, the evaluation value EV for the air resistance reduction driving function is set based on the air resistance reduction effect when it operates in the air resistance reduction driving mode.

[0242] The air resistance reduction effect is the effect of reducing the air resistance experienced by the vehicle 100 through air resistance reduction driving functions. It is an indicator of the degree to which it helps reduce the energy consumption of the vehicle 100. The air resistance reduction effect depends on the driving environment of the vehicle 100. In this example, the target distance DFtgt and the vertical projected area VPA are used as the driving environment of the vehicle 100. Alternatively, in addition to the target distance DFtgt and the vertical projected area VPA, the vehicle speed V can also be used as the driving environment of the vehicle 100.

[0243] Furthermore, at the same vehicle speed V, the reduction effect on air resistance is greater the shorter the target distance DFtgt and the larger the vertical projected area VPA. In this example, the reduction effect on air resistance is classified into four types based on the target distance DFtgt and the vertical projected area VPA (i.e., zero air resistance reduction effect, small air resistance reduction effect, medium air resistance reduction effect, and large air resistance reduction effect).

[0244] Therefore, as Figure 4 As shown, the evaluation value EV for the operation state of the air resistance reduction driving function in the air resistance reduction driving mode is set as follows.

[0245] (1) When the air resistance reduction driving function is turned off, an evaluation value of "0" EV is set. That is, when the air resistance reduction driving function is turned off, an evaluation value of "0" EV is set.

[0246] (2) For the operation state of the air resistance reduction driving function in the air resistance reduction driving mode when the air resistance reduction effect is zero, an evaluation value of "0" EV is set. That is, for the air resistance reduction driving mode of the air resistance reduction driving function when the air resistance reduction effect is zero, an evaluation value of "0" EV is set. In addition, zero effect means no air resistance reduction effect (zero).

[0247] (3) For the operation state of the air resistance reduction driving function in the air resistance reduction driving mode when the air resistance reduction effect is small, an evaluation value of "1" EV is set. That is, for the air resistance reduction driving mode of the air resistance reduction driving function when the air resistance reduction effect is small, an evaluation value of "1" EV is set. In addition, small effect is an air resistance reduction effect greater than zero effect.

[0248] (4) For the operation state of the air resistance reduction driving function in the air resistance reduction driving mode when the air resistance reduction effect is medium, an evaluation value of "2" EV is set. That is, for the air resistance reduction driving mode of the air resistance reduction driving function with the air resistance reduction effect of medium, an evaluation value of "2" EV is set. In addition, medium effect is an air resistance reduction effect greater than small effect.

[0249] (5) For the operation state of the air resistance reduction driving function in the air resistance reduction driving mode when the air resistance reduction effect is large, an evaluation value of "3" EV is set. That is, for the air resistance reduction driving mode of the air resistance reduction driving function with the large air resistance reduction effect, an evaluation value of "3" EV is set. In addition, "large effect" means that the air resistance reduction effect is greater than "medium effect".

[0250] In this way, the greater the degree to which the air resistance reduction driving mode helps reduce the vehicle's energy consumption by 100%, the higher the EV rating is set.

[0251] Furthermore, as can be seen from the above explanation, the operating state of the air resistance reduction driving function is the control mode (off mode and air resistance reduction driving mode) that the air resistance reduction driving function is currently executing.

[0252] In addition, the driving environment of the vehicle 100 is achieved by the air resistance reduction driving function through this air resistance reduction assist function (assist function).

[0253] Furthermore, the driving environment of this vehicle 100 is the vertical projected area VPA and the distance DF of the preceding vehicle 200 when the air resistance reduction driving function is operating in the air resistance reduction driving mode.

[0254] Furthermore, in general, when the specified driving environment condition of vertical projected area VPA being greater than or equal to a specified area VPAth and vehicle distance DF being less than a specified distance DFth is not met, the evaluation value EV for the driving mode designed to reduce air resistance is higher when this specified driving environment condition is met. Additionally, when the driving environment of this vehicle 100 also uses the vehicle's speed V, in general, when the vehicle speed V is the same, when this specified driving environment condition of vertical projected area VPA being greater than or equal to a specified area VPAth and vehicle distance DF being less than a specified distance DFth is not met, the evaluation value EV for the driving mode designed to reduce air resistance is higher when this specified driving environment condition is met.

[0255] Furthermore, the evaluation value EV for the air resistance reduction driving mode setting can be obtained from a lookup table with the vertical projected area VPA and the vehicle distance DF as independent variables, or it can be obtained through calculation using a formula with the vertical projected area VPA and the vehicle distance DF as parameters. Additionally, if the vehicle speed V is also used in the driving environment of the vehicle 100, the value can be obtained from a lookup table with the vertical projected area VPA, the vehicle distance DF, and the vehicle speed V as independent variables, or it can be obtained through calculation using a formula with the vertical projected area VPA, the vehicle distance DF, and the vehicle speed V as parameters.

[0256] Furthermore, the evaluation value EV set for the air resistance reduction driving mode is three or more values ​​corresponding to the combination of vertical projected area VPA and vehicle distance DF. Additionally, when the vehicle's speed V is also used in the driving environment 100, the evaluation value EV set for the air resistance reduction driving mode is three or more values ​​corresponding to the combination of vertical projected area VPA, vehicle distance DF, and vehicle speed V.

[0257] Furthermore, the vehicle driving assistance device 10 obtains the total evaluation value EV obtained by combining the operation status of the coasting follow function and the operation status of the air resistance reduction driving function at that time point.

[0258] For example, when the coasting follow function is in the normal acceleration / deceleration mode and the air resistance reduction function is in the air resistance reduction mode with zero air resistance reduction effect, the total evaluation value EVtotal is "0".

[0259] Additionally, when the coasting follow function is operating in acceleration mode and the air resistance reduction function is operating in air resistance reduction mode, the total evaluation value EVtotal is "4".

[0260] Next, the vehicle driving assistance device 10 advances the processing to step S315, whereby a comprehensive evaluation (comprehensive evaluation) related to the utilization status of the assistance system is determined based on the total evaluation value EVtotal.

[0261] In this example, the overall evaluation is a five-level evaluation from the lowest overall evaluation (lowest evaluation) to the highest overall evaluation (highest evaluation) (i.e., first evaluation, second evaluation, third evaluation, fourth evaluation and fifth evaluation).

[0262] Furthermore, (1) when the total evaluation value EVtotal is “0”, the comprehensive evaluation becomes the first evaluation (lowest evaluation); (2) when the total evaluation value EVtotal is “1”, the comprehensive evaluation becomes the second evaluation; (3) when the total evaluation value EVtotal is “2”, the comprehensive evaluation becomes the third evaluation; (4) when the total evaluation value EVtotal is “3”, the comprehensive evaluation becomes the fourth evaluation; and (5) when the total evaluation value EVtotal is “4” or higher, the comprehensive evaluation becomes the fifth evaluation (highest evaluation).

[0263] In this way, when the total evaluation value (EVtotal) is "4" or higher, the overall evaluation becomes the highest evaluation (the fifth evaluation). Therefore, in Figure 4 In the examples shown, the following four situations result in the highest overall rating.

[0264] (1) When the coasting following function is in the acceleration mode and the air resistance reduction function is in the air resistance reduction mode, the following conditions are met.

[0265] (2) When the coasting follow-up driving function is in the coasting deceleration mode and the air resistance reduction driving function is in the air resistance reduction driving mode when the air resistance reduction effect is small.

[0266] (3) When the coasting follow-up driving function is in the coasting deceleration mode and the air resistance reduction driving function is in the air resistance reduction driving mode when the air resistance reduction effect is moderate.

[0267] (4) When the coasting following function is in the coasting deceleration mode and the air resistance reduction driving function is in the air resistance reduction driving mode, the following conditions are met.

[0268] Next, the vehicle driving assistance device 10 advances the process to step S320, displays an image representing the overall evaluation (overall evaluation image IMtotal) on the display device 40, and then advances the process to step S395, temporarily ending the processing of this routine. In this example, the overall evaluation image IMtotal is... Figure 5 The image shown.

[0269] Figure 5The comprehensive evaluation image IMtotal shown includes a main image IMmain and four sub-images IMsub (i.e., sub-image IMsub_1, sub-image IMsub_2, sub-image IMsub_3, and sub-image IMsub_4). The main image IMmain is an image that mimics a leaf. The sub-images IMsub are rod-shaped images, and the first sub-image IMsub_1, the second sub-image IMsub_2, the third sub-image IMsub_3, and the fourth sub-image IMsub_4 are arranged in a column from left to right.

[0270] If the overall evaluation is the lowest possible (first-class) rating, then... Figure 6A As shown, the comprehensive evaluation image IMtotal is displayed with the main image IMmain and the first sub-image IMsub_1, the second sub-image IMsub_2, the third sub-image IMsub_3, and the fourth sub-image IMsub_4 all turned off.

[0271] In addition, if the overall evaluation is the second evaluation, such as Figure 6B As shown, the comprehensive evaluation image IMtotal is displayed with the main image IMmain and the first sub-image IMsub_1 lit up, while the second sub-image IMsub_2, the third sub-image IMsub_3 and the fourth sub-image IMsub_4 are off.

[0272] In addition, if the overall evaluation is the third evaluation, such as Figure 6C As shown, the comprehensive evaluation image IMtotal is displayed with the main image IMmain, the first sub-image IMsub_1 and the second sub-image IMsub_2 lit up, while the third image IMsub_3 and the fourth image IMsub_4 are off.

[0273] In addition, if the overall evaluation is the fourth level, such as Figure 6D As shown, the comprehensive evaluation image IMtotal is displayed with the main image IMmain, the first sub-image IMsub_1, the second sub-image IMsub_2 and the third sub-image IMsub_3 lit up, and the fourth image IMsub_4 off.

[0274] Additionally, if the overall evaluation is the fifth highest rating, such as Figure 6E As shown, the comprehensive evaluation image IMtotal is displayed with all four sub-images—IMmain, IMsub_1, IMsub_2, IMsub_3, and IMsub_4—fully lit up.

[0275] On the other hand, if the vehicle driving assistance device 10 determines "no" in step S305, the process proceeds to step S325. At this point, if the display device 40 is displaying the comprehensive evaluation image IMtotal, the display is stopped, and then the process proceeds to step S395, temporarily ending the processing of this routine.

[0276] Accordingly, when the assistance system has multiple assistance functions, namely coasting and drag reduction, the display device 40 does not display the individual usage status of the coasting and drag reduction functions. Instead, it aggregates the usage status of the coasting and drag reduction functions (i.e., the utilization status of the assistance system) into a single comprehensive evaluation (Comprehensive Evaluation Image IMtotal) and displays it on the display device 40. This allows the driver (i.e., the user of the assistance system) to easily grasp the utilization status of the assistance system.

[0277] As explained above, in this example, the vehicle driving assistance device 10 includes: a display device 40 for displaying an image to the driver of the vehicle 100; and an ECU 90 for controlling the operation of the assistance system that assists the driver in driving the vehicle 100. Furthermore, the assistance system includes multiple different assistance functions to assist the driver in driving the vehicle 100, namely, a coasting follow function and an air resistance reduction function. The ECU 90 is configured to perform a comprehensive evaluation (a comprehensive evaluation related to the utilization of the assistance system) based on the respective operating states of the coasting follow function and the air resistance reduction function, and display this comprehensive evaluation (the result of the comprehensive evaluation) on the display device 40.

[0278] Furthermore, in this example, the vehicle driving assistance device 10 is configured to display a comprehensive evaluation (a comprehensive evaluation result related to the utilization status of the assistance system) on the display device 40 when the assistance system is working (i.e., when at least one of the coast-following function and the air resistance reduction function is working), and to stop the display device 40 from displaying the comprehensive evaluation (a comprehensive evaluation result related to the utilization status of the assistance system) when the assistance system stops working (i.e., when neither the coast-following function nor the air resistance reduction function is working).

[0279] Furthermore, in the example above, the assistance system has two assistance functions: coasting and drag reduction. Each of these functions has a performance value (EV) assigned to its respective operating state. The highest overall performance value (EVtotal) is achieved when the sum of the EV values ​​assigned to the current operating states of both functions (EVtotal and EVtotal) exceeds a specified value (in the example above, when EVtotal is 4 or higher). Furthermore, evaluation values ​​EV are set for the respective operating states of the coast-following function and the air resistance reduction function in the following manner: even if the evaluation value EV set for the current operating state of the auxiliary function of one of the coast-following function and the air resistance reduction function (in the example above, the evaluation value EV of "3" set for the coast-following deceleration mode of the coast-following function) is a first evaluation value (e.g., "3") or higher, but the evaluation value EV set for the current operating state of the auxiliary function of the other of the coast-following function and the air resistance reduction function (in the example above, the evaluation value EV of "0" set for the air resistance reduction mode of the air resistance reduction function where the air resistance reduction effect is zero) is less than a second evaluation value (e.g., "0") smaller than the first evaluation value, the total evaluation value EVtotal will not exceed a predetermined value (in the example above, the total evaluation value EVtotal will not exceed "4").

[0280] Furthermore, evaluation values ​​EV are set for the respective operating states of the coast-following function and the air resistance reduction function in the following manner: if the evaluation value EV set for the current operating state of one of the assistance functions (in the example above, the evaluation value EV of "3" set for the coast-following deceleration mode of the coast-following function) is a first evaluation value (e.g., "3") or higher, and the evaluation value EV set for the current operating state of the other assistance function (the evaluation value EV of "1" or "2" set for the air resistance reduction mode of the air resistance reduction function when the air resistance reduction effect is small or medium) is a second evaluation value (e.g., "0") or higher, even if it is less than the first evaluation value (e.g., "3"), the total evaluation value EVtotal becomes a predetermined value or higher (in the example above, the total evaluation value EVtotal becomes "4" or higher).

[0281] In this way, the maximum evaluation value (EV) for each assistance function setting is set to a value that is at least smaller than the total evaluation value (EVtotal) for achieving the highest overall evaluation. That is, the maximum evaluation value (EV) for the coasting follow function setting, "3", is set to a value smaller than the total evaluation value (EVtotal) for achieving the highest overall evaluation, "4". Similarly, the maximum evaluation value (EV) for the air resistance reduction driving function setting, "3", is also set to a value smaller than the total evaluation value (EVtotal) for achieving the highest overall evaluation, "4".

[0282] Furthermore, the coasting following function enables the vehicle 100 to autonomously accelerate and decelerate, and has a coasting acceleration / deceleration mode and a normal acceleration / deceleration mode as control modes. The coasting acceleration / deceleration mode is a control mode in which the vehicle 100 autonomously accelerates and decelerates by varying the distance DF between the upper and lower limits of a set distance range Rdf when a vehicle 200 is in front of it; it decelerates the vehicle 100 by coasting. On the other hand, the normal acceleration / deceleration mode is a control mode in which the vehicle 100 autonomously accelerates and decelerates by maintaining a distance DF as the target distance DFtgt when a vehicle 200 is in front of it. The evaluation value EV set for the normal acceleration / deceleration mode is lower than the evaluation value EV set for the coasting acceleration / deceleration mode.

[0283] Furthermore, the EV value for the normal acceleration / deceleration mode of the coasting follow function is set to "0".

[0284] Furthermore, the coasting follow function's coasting acceleration / deceleration mode has an acceleration mode and a coasting deceleration mode. The acceleration mode of the coasting acceleration / deceleration mode accelerates the vehicle to 100 km / h, while the coasting deceleration mode decelerates the vehicle to 100 km / h by coasting at 100 km / h. Moreover, the EV value set for the acceleration mode of the coasting acceleration / deceleration mode is higher than the EV value set for the normal acceleration / deceleration mode of the coasting follow function, and the EV value set for the coasting deceleration mode of the coasting acceleration / deceleration mode is higher than the EV value set for the acceleration mode of the coasting acceleration / deceleration mode.

[0285] In addition, the overall evaluation is the highest when the total evaluation value EVtotal is above the specified value EVth (in the example above, when the total evaluation value EVtotal is "4" or above). The maximum value of the evaluation value EV set for the coast deceleration mode of the coast following driving function and the air resistance reduction driving mode of the air resistance reduction driving function is the largest value within the range of less than the specified value EVth (in the example above, the largest value within the range of less than "4", i.e., "3").

[0286] <Work Example 2>

[0287] Furthermore, when the auxiliary functions that are the subject of comprehensive evaluation of the vehicle driving assistance device 10 are the air conditioning intensity setting function and the acceleration setting function, the vehicle driving assistance device 10 operates as follows.

[0288] In this example, such as Figure 7 As shown, an evaluation value EV is set for each operating state of the air conditioning intensity setting function and the acceleration setting function. That is, for the air conditioning intensity setting function, an evaluation value EV is set for each operating state as follows.

[0289] (1) The air conditioning intensity setting function is in the off mode and the evaluation value EV is set to "0". That is, the air conditioning intensity setting function is in the off mode and the evaluation value EV is set to "0".

[0290] (2) For the operation state of the air conditioning intensity setting function in strong mode, an evaluation value of "0" EV is set. That is, for the strong mode of the air conditioning intensity setting function, an evaluation value of "0" EV is set.

[0291] (3) An evaluation value of “1” EV is set for the operation state of the air conditioning intensity setting function in medium mode. That is, an evaluation value of “1” EV is set for the medium mode of the air conditioning intensity setting function.

[0292] (4) An evaluation value of “2” EV is set for the operation state of the air conditioning intensity setting function in weak mode. That is, an evaluation value of “2” EV is set for the weak mode of the air conditioning intensity setting function.

[0293] (5) When the air conditioning intensity setting function is in the off mode (i.e., the air conditioning intensity setting function is not in operation), an evaluation value of "3" EV is set. That is, when the air conditioning intensity setting function is in the off mode, an evaluation value of "3" EV is set.

[0294] Compared to when the air conditioning intensity setting is in strong mode, operating the air conditioning intensity setting in medium mode helps reduce the vehicle's energy consumption by 100% more. Therefore, the evaluation value EV for operating the air conditioning intensity setting in medium mode is set to a higher value than the evaluation value EV for operating the air conditioning intensity setting in strong mode.

[0295] Similarly, compared to when the air conditioning intensity setting is in medium mode, operating the air conditioning intensity setting in low mode helps to reduce the vehicle's energy consumption by 100% more. Therefore, the evaluation value EV for operating the air conditioning intensity setting in low mode is set to a higher value than the evaluation value EV for operating the air conditioning intensity setting in medium mode.

[0296] Similarly, compared to when the air conditioning intensity setting is operating in low mode, the reduction in energy consumption by 100% is greater when the air conditioning intensity setting is off. Therefore, the evaluation value EV for the air conditioning intensity setting being off is set to a higher value than the evaluation value EV for the operating state when the air conditioning intensity setting is operating in low mode.

[0297] In this way, the greater the degree to which the air conditioning intensity setting helps reduce the vehicle's energy consumption by 100%, the higher the EV rating will be set.

[0298] In addition, as can be seen from the above explanation, the operating state of the air conditioning intensity setting function is the control mode (off mode, weak mode, medium mode and strong mode) that the air conditioning intensity setting function is currently executing.

[0299] In addition, such as Figure 7 As shown, the acceleration setting function has an evaluation value EV set for each action state, as follows.

[0300] (1) The acceleration setting function is in the off mode and the evaluation value EV is set to "0". That is, the acceleration setting function is in the off mode and the evaluation value EV is set to "0".

[0301] (2) For the operation state of the acceleration setting function working in high acceleration mode, an evaluation value of "0" EV is set. That is, for the high acceleration mode of the acceleration setting function, an evaluation value of "0" EV is set.

[0302] (3) For the acceleration setting function operating in the normal acceleration mode, an evaluation value EV of "1" is set. That is, for the normal acceleration mode of the acceleration setting function, an evaluation value EV of "1" is set.

[0303] (4) For the operation state where the acceleration setting function is working in low acceleration mode, an evaluation value of "3" EV is set. That is, for the low acceleration mode of the acceleration setting function, an evaluation value of "3" EV is set.

[0304] Generally, the smaller the acceleration of vehicle 100 relative to the same amount of accelerator pedal operation, the less energy vehicle 100 consumes.

[0305] Therefore, compared to when the acceleration setting function operates in high acceleration mode, operating in normal acceleration mode helps to reduce the energy consumption of the vehicle 100 to a greater extent. Therefore, the evaluation value EV for the operation state when the acceleration setting function operates in normal acceleration mode is set to a higher value than the evaluation value EV for the operation state when the acceleration setting function operates in high acceleration mode.

[0306] Similarly, when the acceleration setting function is operating in low acceleration mode, it helps to reduce the energy consumption of the vehicle 100 to a greater extent than when the acceleration setting function is operating in normal acceleration mode. Therefore, the evaluation value EV for the operation state when the acceleration setting function is operating in low acceleration mode is set to a higher value than the evaluation value EV for the operation state when the acceleration setting function is operating in normal acceleration mode.

[0307] In this way, regarding the acceleration setting mode, the greater the degree to which it helps reduce the energy consumption of this vehicle by 100, the higher the evaluation value EV is set.

[0308] In addition, as can be seen from the above explanation, the operating state of the acceleration setting function is the control mode that the acceleration setting function is currently executing (off mode, high acceleration mode, normal acceleration mode, and low acceleration mode).

[0309] Furthermore, the vehicle driving assistance device 10 obtains the combined evaluation value EV of the operation status of the air conditioning intensity setting function and the operation status of the acceleration setting function at that time point, and uses it as the total evaluation value EVtotal.

[0310] For example, if the air conditioning intensity setting function is in strong mode and the acceleration setting function is in high acceleration mode, the total evaluation value EVtotal is "0".

[0311] On the other hand, when the air conditioning intensity setting function is operating in a weak mode and the acceleration setting function is operating in a low acceleration mode, the total evaluation value EVtotal is "5".

[0312] Furthermore, as previously mentioned, in this example, when the total evaluation value (EVtotal) is "4" or higher, the overall evaluation becomes the highest rating. Therefore, in Figure 7 In the examples shown, the following four situations result in the highest overall rating.

[0313] (1) The air conditioning intensity setting function is in the medium mode and the acceleration setting function is in the low acceleration mode.

[0314] (2) The air conditioning intensity setting function is in the weak mode and the acceleration setting function is in the low acceleration mode.

[0315] (3) The air conditioning intensity setting function is in the off mode and the acceleration setting function is in the normal acceleration mode.

[0316] (4) The air conditioning intensity setting function is in the off mode and the acceleration setting function is in the low acceleration mode.

[0317] Furthermore, the vehicle driving assistance device 10 displays the comprehensive evaluation image IMtotal corresponding to the comprehensive evaluation via the display device 40, thereby notifying the driver of the comprehensive evaluation.

[0318] Therefore, when the driver assistance system has multiple auxiliary functions, namely air conditioning intensity setting function and acceleration setting function, instead of displaying the individual usage status of the air conditioning intensity setting function and acceleration setting function on the display device 40, the usage status of the air conditioning intensity setting function and acceleration setting function (i.e., the usage status of the driver assistance system) is aggregated into a comprehensive evaluation (Comprehensive Evaluation Image IMtotal) and displayed on the display device 40. Thus, the driver (i.e., the user of the driver assistance system) can easily grasp the usage status of the driver assistance system.

[0319] As explained above, in this example, the vehicle driving assistance device 10 includes: a display device 40 for displaying an image to the driver of the vehicle 100; and an ECU 90 for controlling the operation of the assistance system that assists the driver in driving the vehicle 100. Furthermore, the assistance system includes multiple different assistance functions to assist the driver in driving the vehicle 100, namely, an air conditioning intensity setting function and an acceleration setting function. The ECU 90 is configured to perform a comprehensive evaluation (a comprehensive evaluation related to the utilization of the assistance system) based on the respective operating states of the air conditioning intensity setting function and the acceleration setting function, and display this comprehensive evaluation (the result of the comprehensive evaluation) on the display device 40.

[0320] In addition, in this example, the vehicle driving assistance device 10 is configured to display a comprehensive evaluation (the result of a comprehensive evaluation related to the utilization of the assistance system) on the display device 40 when the assistance system is working (i.e., when at least one of the air conditioning intensity setting function and the acceleration setting function is working), and to stop the display device 40 from displaying the comprehensive evaluation (the result of a comprehensive evaluation related to the utilization of the assistance system) when the assistance system stops working (i.e., when neither the air conditioning intensity setting function nor the acceleration setting function is working).

[0321] Furthermore, in the example above, the auxiliary system has two auxiliary functions: an air conditioning intensity setting function and an acceleration setting function. Each of these functions has an evaluation value (EV) assigned to its respective operating state. The highest evaluation value (EVtotal) is achieved when the total of the EV values ​​assigned to the current operating states of the air conditioning intensity and acceleration functions is 4 or higher (in the example above, EVtotal is 4 or higher). Furthermore, evaluation values ​​EV are set for the respective operating states of the air conditioning intensity setting function and the acceleration setting function in the following manner: even if the evaluation value EV set for the current operating state of the auxiliary function of one of the air conditioning intensity setting function and the acceleration setting function (in the above example, the evaluation value EV of "3" set for the off mode of the air conditioning intensity setting function) is a first evaluation value (e.g., "3") or higher, but the evaluation value EV set for the current operating state of the auxiliary function of the other of the air conditioning intensity setting function and the acceleration setting function (in the above example, the evaluation value EV of "0" set for the off mode and high acceleration mode of the acceleration setting function) is less than a second evaluation value (e.g., "0") which is smaller than the first evaluation value, the total evaluation value EVtotal will not be higher than a predetermined value (in the above example, the total evaluation value EVtotal will not be higher than "4").

[0322] Furthermore, evaluation values ​​EV are set for the respective operating states of the air conditioning intensity setting function and the acceleration setting function in the following manner: when the evaluation value EV set for the current operating state of one auxiliary function (in the example above, the evaluation value EV of "3" set for the off mode of the air conditioning intensity setting) is a first evaluation value (e.g., "3") or higher, and the evaluation value EV set for the current operating state of the other auxiliary function (in the example above, the evaluation value EV of "1" set for the normal acceleration mode of the acceleration setting function) is less than the first evaluation value (e.g., "3") but is a second evaluation value (e.g., "0") or higher, the total evaluation value EVtotal becomes a predetermined value or higher (in the example above, the total evaluation value EVtotal becomes "4" or higher).

[0323] In this way, the maximum evaluation value (EV) for each auxiliary function setting is set to be at least smaller than the total evaluation value (EVtotal) for achieving the highest overall evaluation. That is, the maximum evaluation value (EV) for the air conditioning intensity setting ("3") is set to be smaller than the total evaluation value (EVtotal) for achieving the highest overall evaluation ("4"). Similarly, the maximum evaluation value (EV) for the acceleration setting ("3") is also set to be smaller than the total evaluation value (EVtotal) for achieving the highest overall evaluation ("4").

[0324] In addition, the overall evaluation is the highest when the total evaluation value EVtotal is above the specified value EVth (in the example above, when the total evaluation value EVtotal is "4" or above). The maximum value of the evaluation value EV for the off mode of the air conditioning intensity setting function and the low acceleration mode setting of the acceleration setting function is the largest value within the range of less than the specified value EVth (in the example above, it is the largest value within the range of less than "4", i.e., "3").

[0325] <Work Example 3>

[0326] Furthermore, when the assist functions that are the subject of comprehensive evaluation of the vehicle driving assistance device 10 are the following two functions, namely the following driving function and the speed limiting function, the vehicle driving assistance device 10 operates as follows.

[0327] In this example, such as Figure 8 As shown, an evaluation value EV is set for each operating state of the follow-along function and the speed limit function. That is, for the follow-along function, an evaluation value EV is set for each operating state as follows.

[0328] (1) For the following driving function being turned off (i.e., the vehicle 100 is driven by the driver manually), an evaluation value of "0" EV is set. That is, for the following driving function being turned off, an evaluation value of "0" EV is set.

[0329] (2) For the normal following driving function operating in normal following driving mode or normal speed control mode, an evaluation value of "1" EV is set. That is, for the normal following driving function in normal following driving mode or normal speed control mode, an evaluation value of "1" EV is set.

[0330] (3) For the operation state of the coast following function in coast acceleration / deceleration mode or normal acceleration / deceleration mode, an evaluation value of "3" EV is set. That is, for the coast acceleration / deceleration mode or normal acceleration / deceleration mode of the coast following function, an evaluation value of "3" EV is set.

[0331] Generally, when the vehicle 100 is driven by the normal following function, the energy consumption of the vehicle 100 is less than when the vehicle 100 is driven by the driver manually.

[0332] Therefore, compared to when the vehicle 100 is driven manually by the driver (i.e., when the follow-drive function is turned off), the energy consumption of the vehicle 100 is reduced to a greater extent when the follow-drive function is normally operating. Therefore, the evaluation value EV for the normally operating follow-drive function is set to a higher value than the evaluation value EV for the state in which the vehicle 100 is driven manually by the driver (i.e., when the follow-drive function is turned off).

[0333] In addition, when the vehicle 100 is driven by the coasting follow function, the energy consumption of the vehicle 100 is less than when the vehicle 100 is driven by the normal follow function.

[0334] Therefore, compared to the normal following function, the coasting following function helps to reduce the vehicle's energy consumption by 100% more when it is in operation. Therefore, the evaluation value EV for the coasting following function is set to a higher value than the evaluation value EV for the operating state of the normal following function.

[0335] In this way, the greater the degree to which the follow-along driving function helps reduce the vehicle's energy consumption by 100%, the higher the EV rating is set.

[0336] In addition, as can be seen from the above explanation, the operating state of the follow function is the control mode that the follow function is currently executing (off mode, normal follow mode, normal speed control mode, coasting follow mode and coasting speed control mode).

[0337] In addition, such as Figure 8 As shown below, the speed limit function has an evaluation value (EV) set for each driving state, as described below.

[0338] (1) When the vehicle speed limit function is in the off mode, an evaluation value of "0" EV is set. That is, when the vehicle speed limit function is in the off mode, an evaluation value of "0" EV is set.

[0339] (2) For the operation state of the speed limit function in the first limit mode of the speed limit mode, an evaluation value of "0" EV is set. That is, for the first limit mode of the speed limit function, an evaluation value of "0" EV is set. The first limit mode is the mode in which the speed limit function's speed limit mode sets the speed limit Vlimit to a speed of the first speed V1 or higher.

[0340] (3) For the operation state of the speed limit function in the second limit mode of the speed limit mode, an evaluation value EV of "1" is set. That is, for the second limit mode of the speed limit function, an evaluation value EV of "1" is set. The second limit mode is a mode in which the speed limit function's speed limit mode sets the speed limit Vlimit to a speed that is higher than the second speed V2 and lower than the first speed V1. The second speed V2 is a speed lower than the first speed V1.

[0341] (4) For the operation state of the speed limit function in the third speed limit mode, an evaluation value of "2" EV is set. That is, for the third speed limit mode of the speed limit function, an evaluation value of "2" EV is set. The third speed limit mode is a mode in which the speed limit Vlimit of the speed limit function is set to a speed of the third speed V3 or higher and less than the second speed V2. In addition, the third speed V3 is a speed lower than the second speed V2.

[0342] (5) For the operation state of the speed limit function in the fourth limit mode of the speed limit mode, an evaluation value of "3" EV is set. That is, for the fourth limit mode of the speed limit function, an evaluation value of "3" EV is set. The fourth limit mode is a mode in which the speed limit Vlimit of the speed limit function is set to a speed less than the third speed V3.

[0343] In summary, the lower the vehicle speed V, the less energy the vehicle 100 consumes. Therefore, the second limit mode of the speed limit function contributes more to reducing the energy consumption of the vehicle 100 compared to when the speed limit function is operating in the first limit mode. Therefore, the evaluation value EV for the second limit mode of the speed limit function is set to a higher value than the evaluation value EV for the operating state of the speed limit function operating in the first limit mode.

[0344] Similarly, when the speed limit function operates in the third limit mode, it helps to reduce the energy consumption of the vehicle by 100% more than when the speed limit function operates in the second limit mode. Therefore, the evaluation value EV for the operation state of the speed limit function operating in the third limit mode is set to a higher value than the evaluation value EV for the operation state of the speed limit function operating in the second limit mode.

[0345] Similarly, compared to when the speed limit function operates in the third limit mode, operating in the fourth limit mode helps to reduce the vehicle's energy consumption by a greater extent. Therefore, the evaluation value EV for the operation state of the speed limit function operating in the fourth limit mode is set to a higher value than the evaluation value EV for the operation state of the speed limit function operating in the third limit mode.

[0346] In this way, the greater the speed limit function helps reduce the vehicle's energy consumption by 100%, the higher the EV rating is set.

[0347] In addition, as can be seen from the above explanation, the operating state of the speed limit function is the control mode that the speed limit function is currently executing (off mode, first limit mode, second limit mode, third limit mode and fourth limit mode).

[0348] Furthermore, the vehicle driving assistance device 10 obtains the total evaluation value EV obtained by combining the operation status of the following driving function and the operation status of the vehicle speed limit function at that time point.

[0349] For example, if the follow-along function is in the off mode and the speed limit function is operating in the first limit mode, the total evaluation value EVtotal is "0".

[0350] On the other hand, when the following driving function is in the operation state of the coasting following driving function in the coasting acceleration and deceleration mode or the normal acceleration and deceleration mode and the speed limit function is in the operation state of the second limit mode, the total evaluation value EVtotal is "4".

[0351] Furthermore, as previously mentioned, in this example, when the total evaluation value (EVtotal) is "4" or higher, the overall evaluation becomes the highest rating. Therefore, in Figure 8 In the examples shown, the following four situations result in the highest overall rating.

[0352] (1) The following driving function is normally in the working state and the speed limit function is in the working state of the fourth limit mode.

[0353] (2) When the following driving function is in operation and the speed limit function is in operation in the second limit mode.

[0354] (3) When the following driving function is in operation and the speed limit function is in operation in the third limit mode.

[0355] (4) When the following driving function is in operation and the speed limit function is in operation in the fourth limit mode.

[0356] Furthermore, the vehicle driving assistance device 10 displays the comprehensive evaluation image IMtotal corresponding to the comprehensive evaluation via the display device 40, thereby notifying the driver of the comprehensive evaluation.

[0357] Therefore, when the assistance system has multiple assistance functions, namely the following function and the speed limiting function, instead of displaying the individual usage status of the following function and the speed limiting function on the display device 40, the usage status of the following function and the speed limiting function (i.e., the usage status of the assistance system) is aggregated into a comprehensive evaluation (Comprehensive Evaluation Image IMtotal) and displayed on the display device 40. Thus, the driver (i.e., the user of the assistance system) can easily grasp the usage status of the assistance system.

[0358] As explained above, in this example, the vehicle driving assistance device 10 includes: a display device 40 for displaying an image to the driver of the vehicle 100; and an ECU 90 for controlling the operation of the assistance system that assists the driver in driving the vehicle 100. Furthermore, the assistance system includes multiple different assistance functions to assist the driver in driving the vehicle 100, namely, a following function and a speed limiting function. The ECU 90 is configured to perform a comprehensive evaluation (a comprehensive evaluation related to the utilization of the assistance system) based on the respective operating states of the following function and the speed limiting function, and display this comprehensive evaluation (the result of the comprehensive evaluation) on the display device 40.

[0359] In addition, in this example, the vehicle driving assistance device 10 is configured to display a comprehensive evaluation (the result of a comprehensive evaluation related to the utilization status of the assistance system) on the display device 40 when the assistance system is working (i.e., when at least one of the following function and the speed limit function is working), and to stop the display device 40 from displaying the comprehensive evaluation (the result of a comprehensive evaluation related to the utilization status of the assistance system) when the assistance system stops working (i.e., when neither the following function nor the speed limit function is working).

[0360] Furthermore, in the example above, the assistance system has two assistance functions: a following function and a speed limiting function. Each of these functions has a set evaluation value (EV) for its respective operating state. The highest overall evaluation value (EVtotal) is achieved when the sum of the EV values ​​set for the current operating states of the following and speed limiting functions exceeds a specified value (in the example above, when the total EVtotal is 4 or higher). Furthermore, evaluation values ​​EV are set for the respective operating states of the following function and the speed limit function in the following manner: even if the evaluation value EV set for the current operating state of the assist function of one of the following function and the speed limit function (in the above example, the evaluation value EV of "3" set for the coasting acceleration / deceleration mode and the normal acceleration / deceleration mode of the following function) is a first evaluation value (e.g., "3") or higher, but the evaluation value EV set for the current operating state of the assist function of the other of the following function and the speed limit function (in the above example, the evaluation value EV of "0" set for the off mode and the first limit mode of the speed limit function) is less than a second evaluation value (e.g., "0") smaller than the first evaluation value, the total evaluation value EVtotal will not exceed a predetermined value (in the above example, the total evaluation value EVtotal will not exceed "4").

[0361] Furthermore, evaluation values ​​EV are set for the respective operating states of the following driving function and the speed limit function in the following manner: when the evaluation value EV set for the current operating state of one of the assistance functions (in the above example, the evaluation value EV of "3" set for the coasting acceleration / deceleration mode and the normal acceleration / deceleration mode of the following driving function) is a value of the first evaluation value (e.g., "3") or higher, and the evaluation value EV set for the current operating state of the other assistance function (in the above example, the evaluation value EV of "1" set for the second limit mode of the speed limit function) is a value of the second evaluation value (e.g., "0") but less than the first evaluation value (e.g., "3"), the total evaluation value EVtotal becomes a predetermined value or higher (in the above example, the total evaluation value EVtotal becomes "4" or higher).

[0362] In this way, the maximum evaluation value (EV) for each assistance function setting is set to be at least smaller than the total evaluation value (EVtotal) for achieving the highest overall evaluation. That is, the maximum evaluation value (EV) for the follow-along function setting, "3", is set to be smaller than the total evaluation value (EVtotal) for achieving the highest overall evaluation, "4". Similarly, the maximum evaluation value (EV) for the speed limit function setting, "3", is also set to be smaller than the total evaluation value (EVtotal) for achieving the highest overall evaluation, "4".

[0363] In addition, the overall evaluation is the highest when the total evaluation value EVtotal is above the specified value EVth (in the example above, when the total evaluation value EVtotal is "4" or above). The maximum value of the evaluation value EV set for the coasting acceleration and deceleration mode of the following driving function, the normal acceleration and deceleration mode, and the fourth limit mode of the speed limit function is the largest value within the range of less than the specified value EVth (in the example above, the largest value within the range of less than "4", i.e., "3").

[0364] <Work Example 4>

[0365] In addition, when the assist functions that are the subject of comprehensive evaluation of the vehicle driving assistance device 10 are the following driving function and the speed limiting function, the vehicle driving assistance device 10 may be configured to operate as follows, for example.

[0366] In this example, such as Figure 9 As shown, an evaluation value EV is set for each operating state of the follow-along function and the speed limit function. That is, for the follow-along function, an evaluation value EV is set for each operating state as follows.

[0367] (1) For the following driving function being turned off (i.e., the vehicle 100 is driven by the driver manually), an evaluation value of "0" EV is set. That is, for the following driving function being turned off, an evaluation value of "0" EV is set.

[0368] (2) For the normal following driving function operating in normal following driving mode or normal speed control mode, an evaluation value of "2" EV is set. That is, for the normal following driving function in normal following driving mode or normal speed control mode, an evaluation value of "2" EV is set.

[0369] (3) For the operation state of the coast following function in coast acceleration / deceleration mode or normal acceleration / deceleration mode, an evaluation value of "3" EV is set. That is, for the coast acceleration / deceleration mode or normal acceleration / deceleration mode of the coast following function, an evaluation value of "3" EV is set.

[0370] As in this example, regarding the follow-along function, the greater the degree to which it helps reduce the vehicle's energy consumption by 100%, the higher the EV rating is set.

[0371] In addition, in this example, the operating state of the follow function is the control mode that the follow function is currently executing (off mode, normal follow mode, normal speed control mode, coasting follow mode and coasting speed control mode).

[0372] In addition, such as Figure 9 As shown, regarding the vehicle speed limit function, the evaluation value EV is set to be the same as... Figure 8 The rating value EV for the speed limit function shown is the same.

[0373] Furthermore, the vehicle driving assistance device 10 obtains the total evaluation value EV obtained by combining the operation status of the following driving function and the operation status of the vehicle speed limit function at that time point.

[0374] For example, if the follow-along function is in the off mode and the speed limit function is operating in the first limit mode, the total evaluation value EVtotal is "0".

[0375] On the other hand, when the following function is in the normal following mode or normal speed control mode and the speed limit function is in the second limit mode, the total evaluation value EVtotal is "4".

[0376] Furthermore, as previously mentioned, in this example, when the total evaluation value (EVtotal) is "4" or higher, the overall evaluation becomes the highest rating. Therefore, in Figure 9 In the examples shown, the following five situations result in the highest overall rating.

[0377] (1) The following driving function is in normal working state and the speed limit function is in working state in the third limit mode.

[0378] (2) The following driving function is in normal working state and the speed limit function is in working state in the fourth limit mode.

[0379] (3) When the following driving function is in operation and the speed limit function is in operation in the second limit mode.

[0380] (4) When the following driving function is in operation and the speed limit function is in operation in the third limit mode.

[0381] (5) When the following driving function is in operation and the speed limit function is in operation in the fourth limit mode.

[0382] Furthermore, the vehicle driving assistance device 10 displays the comprehensive evaluation image IMtotal corresponding to the comprehensive evaluation via the display device 40, thereby notifying the driver of the comprehensive evaluation.

[0383] Therefore, when the assistance system has multiple assistance functions, namely the following function and the speed limiting function, instead of displaying the individual usage status of the following function and the speed limiting function on the display device 40, the usage status of the following function and the speed limiting function (i.e., the usage status of the assistance system) is aggregated into a comprehensive evaluation (Comprehensive Evaluation Image IMtotal) and displayed on the display device 40. Thus, the driver (i.e., the user of the assistance system) can easily grasp the usage status of the assistance system.

[0384] As explained above, in this example, the assistance system has two functions: a following function and a speed limiting function. Furthermore, each of the following and speed limiting functions has a set evaluation value (EV) for its respective operating state. The overall evaluation value (EVtotal) is the highest rating when the sum of the EV values ​​set for the current operating states of the following and speed limiting functions is above a specified value (in the example above, when the total EVtotal is 4 or higher). Furthermore, evaluation values ​​EV are set for the respective operating states of the following function and the speed limit function in the following manner: even if the evaluation value EV set for the current operating state of the assist function of the following function and the speed limit function (in the example above, the evaluation value EV of "3" set for the coasting acceleration / deceleration mode and the normal acceleration / deceleration mode of the following function) is a value greater than or equal to the first evaluation value (e.g., "3"), but the evaluation value EV set for the current operating state of the assist function of the other one (in this example, the evaluation value EV of "0" set for the off mode and the first limit mode of the speed limit function) is less than the second evaluation value (e.g., "0") which is smaller than the first evaluation value, the total evaluation value EVtotal will not exceed the specified value (in the example above, the total evaluation value EVtotal will not exceed "4").

[0385] Furthermore, evaluation values ​​EV are set for the respective operating states of the following driving function and the speed limit function in the following manner: if the evaluation value EV set for the current operating state of one of the assistance functions (in the above example, the evaluation value EV of "2" set for the normal following driving mode and normal speed control mode of the normal following driving function of the following driving function) is less than the first evaluation value (e.g., "3") but is greater than or equal to the third evaluation value (e.g., "0"), and the evaluation value EV set for the current operating state of the other assistance function (in the above example, the evaluation value EV of "2" set for the third speed limit mode of the speed limit function) is less than the first evaluation value (e.g., "3") but is greater than or equal to the fourth evaluation value (e.g., "0"), the total evaluation value EVtotal becomes a predetermined value or higher (in the above example, the total evaluation value EVtotal becomes "4" or higher).

[0386] In addition, the overall evaluation is the highest when the total evaluation value EVtotal is above the specified value EVth (in the example above, when the total evaluation value EVtotal is "4" or above). The maximum value of the evaluation value EV set for the coasting acceleration and deceleration mode of the following driving function, the normal acceleration and deceleration mode, and the fourth limit mode of the speed limit function is the largest value within the range of less than the specified value EVth (in the example above, the largest value within the range of less than "4", i.e., "3").

[0387] <Other Work Examples>

[0388] When the assistance system has any number of assistance functions, including assistance functions (other assistance functions) other than those of the assistance systems described in Examples 1 to 4, the vehicle driving assistance device 10 is configured to operate as follows.

[0389] In this case, for each auxiliary function (object auxiliary function) that is the subject of comprehensive evaluation by the vehicle driving assistance device 10, an evaluation value EV is set for each driving state. Furthermore, the object auxiliary function can be all the auxiliary functions possessed by the vehicle driving assistance device 10, or it can be a portion of those auxiliary functions.

[0390] Other driver assistance features include lane keeping assist, automatic lane change assist, automatic overtaking assist, automatic lane splitting assist, automatic merging assist, lane departure warning assist, lane departure prevention assist, blind spot monitoring assist, other vehicle approach warning assist, pedestrian approach warning assist, automatic high beam switching assist, automatic headlight steering assist, automatic headlight and fog light activation assist, automatic windshield wiper operation assist, automatic defrost operation assist, automatic surrounding conditions alert assist, automatic start-up in congestion assist, automatic hazard warning light activation assist, automatic air conditioning recirculation switching assist, automatic seat position adjustment assist, automatic congestion information display assist, automatic video playback assist, automatic audio volume adjustment assist, and speed reduction assist.

[0391] Regarding these other assistive functions, an evaluation value of "1" is set for each assistive function in the active state, and an evaluation value of "0" is set for each assistive function in the stopped state.

[0392] Furthermore, if the auxiliary system has two or more auxiliary functions listed in this specification, including these other auxiliary functions, as an object auxiliary function, and the total evaluation value EV set for the current action state of each of these object auxiliary functions, i.e., the total evaluation value EVtotal, is above the specified value EVth, then the comprehensive evaluation becomes the highest evaluation.

[0393] Furthermore, the specified value EVth is set as follows: if the number of object assistive functions whose evaluation value EV set for the current action state is higher than the first evaluation value is less than the specified number Nth, and the evaluation value EV set for the current action state of the remaining object assistive functions is lower than the second evaluation value which is lower than the first evaluation value, the total evaluation value EVtotal will not exceed the specified value EVth.

[0394] Furthermore, the specified value EVth is set as follows: if the number of object assistive functions whose evaluation value EV set for the current action state is higher than the first evaluation value is less than the specified number Nth, and the evaluation value EV set for the current action state of the remaining object assistive functions is a value that is lower than the first evaluation value but higher than the second evaluation value, the total evaluation value EVtotal becomes the specified value EVth or higher.

[0395] For example, if 10 of the other assistive functions mentioned above are object-oriented assistive functions, an evaluation value EV of "1" is set for the action state where the object-oriented assistive function is working, and an evaluation value EV of "0" is set for the action state where the object-oriented assistive function is stopped (the object-oriented assistive function has become a closed mode). When the specified number Nth is set to 7, the specified value EVth is set to "7".

[0396] Alternatively, the specified value EVth can be set as follows: if the number of object assistive functions whose evaluation value EV set for the current action state is less than the first evaluation value but greater than the second evaluation value is a specified number Nth or more, the total evaluation value EVtotal becomes the specified value EVth or more.

[0397] Furthermore, the vehicle driving assistance device 10 obtains the total value of the evaluation values ​​EV obtained from the action state settings of each of the object assistance functions at that point in time, and uses it as the total evaluation value EVtotal.

[0398] Furthermore, the vehicle driving assistance device 10 displays the comprehensive evaluation image IMtotal corresponding to the comprehensive evaluation via the display device 40, thereby notifying the driver of the comprehensive evaluation.

[0399] Therefore, when the assistance system has multiple assistance functions, instead of displaying the usage status of each assistance function on the display device 40, the usage status of the multiple assistance functions (i.e., the usage status of the assistance system) is aggregated into a comprehensive evaluation (Comprehensive Evaluation Image IMtotal) and displayed on the display device 40. Thus, the driver (i.e., the user of the assistance system) can easily grasp the usage status of the assistance system.

[0400] Furthermore, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications can be adopted within the scope of the present invention.

[0401] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0402] 10…Vehicle driving assistance device, 20…Power unit, 30…Braking device, 40…Display device, 50…Surrounding information detection device, 90…ECU, 100…This vehicle, 200…Forward vehicle.

Claims

1. A display control device comprising a control device for controlling the operation of a display device that displays information related to an auxiliary system, the auxiliary system being used in the vehicle. The auxiliary system has multiple auxiliary functions, each with its own distinct characteristics. The control device is configured to display, via the display device, an evaluation result that comprehensively assesses the utilization of the auxiliary system based on the respective operational states of the auxiliary functions.

2. The display control device according to claim 1, wherein, The control device is configured such that, With the auxiliary system in operation, the evaluation results are displayed via the display device. If the auxiliary system stops working, the display device shall stop displaying the evaluation results.

3. The display control device according to claim 1, wherein, The auxiliary system has two auxiliary functions. An evaluation value is set for each of the aforementioned assistive functions' respective action states. When the sum of the evaluation values ​​set for the current action state of each of the aforementioned assistive functions exceeds a predetermined value, the evaluation becomes the highest evaluation. The evaluation value is set for each of the assistive functions' current action states in the following manner: if the evaluation value set for the current action state of one of the assistive functions is a value greater than or equal to a first evaluation value, but the evaluation value set for the current action state of the other assistive function is less than a second evaluation value which is less than the first evaluation value, the sum of the evaluation values ​​set for each of the assistive functions' current action states will not exceed the specified value.

4. The display control device according to claim 3, wherein, The evaluation value is set for each of the assistive functions' current action states in the following manner: when the evaluation value set for the current action state of one assistive function is a value greater than or equal to the first evaluation value, and the evaluation value set for the current action state of the other assistive function is a value greater than or equal to the second evaluation value, even if it is less than the first evaluation value, the sum of the evaluation values ​​set for each of the assistive functions' current action states becomes the predetermined value or greater.

5. The display control device according to claim 3 or 4, wherein, The greater the degree to which it helps reduce the energy consumption of the vehicle, the higher the evaluation value is set.

6. The display control device according to claim 1, wherein, The operational state of the auxiliary function is the control mode in which the auxiliary function is being executed.

7. The display control device according to claim 6, wherein, The auxiliary function enables the vehicle to accelerate and decelerate autonomously, and includes a coasting acceleration / deceleration mode and a normal acceleration / deceleration mode as the control modes. The coasting acceleration / deceleration mode is a control mode in which, when there is a vehicle in front of the vehicle, the distance between the vehicle and the vehicle (i.e., the distance between the two vehicles) fluctuates between the upper and lower limits of a set distance range, thereby enabling the vehicle to accelerate or decelerate autonomously. Furthermore, it is a control mode that decelerates the vehicle by coasting. The normal acceleration / deceleration mode is a control mode in which the vehicle autonomously accelerates or decelerates while maintaining the target distance from the preceding vehicle. The evaluation value set for the normal acceleration / deceleration mode is lower than the evaluation value set for the coasting acceleration / deceleration mode.

8. The display control device according to claim 7, wherein, The evaluation value set for the typical acceleration / deceleration mode is zero.

9. The display control device according to claim 7, wherein, The coasting acceleration / deceleration mode includes an acceleration mode and a coasting deceleration mode. The acceleration mode is a mode that accelerates the vehicle. The coasting deceleration mode is a mode that decelerates the vehicle by coasting. The evaluation value set for the acceleration mode is higher than the evaluation value set for the normal acceleration / deceleration mode. The evaluation value set for the coasting deceleration mode is higher than the evaluation value set for the acceleration mode.

10. The display control device according to claim 1, wherein, The evaluation is considered the highest if the total of the evaluation values ​​exceeds a specified value. The evaluation value set for the coasting deceleration mode is the largest value within the range that is less than the specified value.

11. The display control device according to claim 1, wherein, The driving environment of the vehicle is achieved through the auxiliary functions described above.

12. The display control device according to claim 11, wherein, As an auxiliary function, the auxiliary system includes: The following driving function includes a following driving mode in which the vehicle autonomously accelerates and decelerates in a manner that causes it to follow the vehicle in front; and The air resistance reduction driving function has an air resistance reduction driving mode that, when the following driving function is in the following driving mode, sets the target vehicle distance in a manner that enhances the air resistance reduction effect of the preceding vehicle on the current vehicle. The driving environment of this vehicle refers to the vertical projected area of ​​the preceding vehicle and the distance between the vehicles when the air resistance reduction driving function is operating in the air resistance reduction driving mode.

13. The display control device according to claim 12, wherein, Compared to when the specified driving environment condition of the vertical projection area being greater than a specified area and the vehicle distance being less than a specified distance is not met, the evaluation value set for the air resistance reduction driving mode is higher when the specified driving environment condition is met.

14. The display control device according to claim 13, wherein, The evaluation value set for the air resistance reduction driving mode is obtained from a lookup table that uses the vertical projected area and the vehicle distance as independent variables.

15. The display control device according to claim 12, wherein, The evaluation value set for the air resistance reduction driving mode is three or more values ​​corresponding to the combination of the vertical projected area and the vehicle distance.

16. A vehicle comprising the display control device of claim 1.

17. A display control method for controlling the operation of a display device that displays information related to an auxiliary system, the auxiliary system being used in the vehicle and having multiple different auxiliary functions. The display control method includes the following steps: displaying, via the display device, an evaluation result that comprehensively assesses the utilization of the auxiliary system based on the respective operational states of the auxiliary functions.

18. A display control program for controlling the operation of a display device that displays information related to an auxiliary system, said auxiliary system being used in the vehicle and having multiple different auxiliary functions. The display control program is configured to display, via the display device, an evaluation result that comprehensively assesses the utilization of the auxiliary system based on the respective operational states of the auxiliary functions.

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