Motion sickness reduction device and motion sickness reduction method

Abstract

To provide a motion sickness reduction device which can impart visual information to a person riding in a vehicle regarding the degree to which the person is tilted relative to horizontal (this can result in reduction of motion sickness caused by poor balance).SOLUTION: A motion sickness reduction device 10 is provided in a riding space of a vehicle provided with the riding space in which people ride. The motion sickness reduction device comprises display devices 20 (20F, 20L, 20R) that display horizontal lines HL20F, HL20L, HL20R extending in horizontal directions orthogonal to a direction of gravity of the vehicle in the riding space, irrespective of a tilt of the vehicle.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a motion sickness reduction device and a motion sickness reduction method, and in particular to a motion sickness reduction device and a motion sickness reduction method that can provide a person riding in a vehicle with visual information about how much they are leaning relative to the horizontal (and thereby reduce motion sickness caused by the sense of balance). [Background technology]

[0002] As a countermeasure against motion sickness, a light array system is known which is mounted on a vehicle and displays a flow of light corresponding to the motion of the vehicle (see, for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Special Publication No. 2019-523657 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, after investigations by the inventors, it was found that in the light array system described in Patent Document 1 above, the flow of light displayed imitates a specific movement of a vehicle, and since passengers in the vehicle have no visual information about how far they are leaning relative to the horizontal, this is insufficient as a countermeasure against motion sickness caused by the sense of balance.

[0005] The present disclosure has been made to solve such problems, and aims to provide a motion sickness reduction device and a motion sickness reduction method that can provide a person riding in a vehicle with visual information about the degree to which he or she is leaning relative to the horizontal (and thereby reduce motion sickness caused by the sense of balance). [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The motion sickness reduction device disclosed herein is provided in a passenger space of a vehicle having a passenger space for passengers, and is equipped with a display device that displays a horizontal line extending horizontally in the passenger space perpendicular to the direction of gravity of the vehicle, regardless of the inclination of the vehicle.

[0007] With this configuration, it is possible to provide passengers in a vehicle with visual information about how far they are leaning relative to the horizontal (and, as a result, reduce motion sickness caused by a sense of balance).

[0008] This is achieved by displaying a horizontal line extending in a horizontal direction perpendicular to the direction of gravity of a vehicle having a passenger space for passengers, regardless of the inclination of the vehicle.

[0009] In addition, the above-mentioned motion sickness reduction device may further include a road condition detection unit that detects the road conditions on which the vehicle is traveling, and the display device may display the horizontal line when the road conditions satisfy predetermined conditions.

[0010] In the above-mentioned motion sickness reduction device, the predetermined condition may be a slope, a curved road, or a straight road on which the vehicle travels with an acceleration force equal to or less than a predetermined value.

[0011] In the above-described motion sickness reduction device, the display device may display, together with the horizontal line, a bright point that moves along the horizontal line in a direction corresponding to the acceleration or deceleration of the vehicle.

[0012] In the above-described motion sickness reduction device, the display device may be provided on a windshield or a side window that constitutes a wall surface surrounding the passenger space.

[0013] In the above-described motion sickness reduction device, the display device may be provided on a rear window that further constitutes a wall surface surrounding the passenger space.

[0014] In the above-mentioned motion sickness reduction device, the display device may be provided on a front dashboard or a side door provided in the passenger space.

[0015] In the above-described motion sickness reduction device, the display device may be further provided on a rear dashboard provided in the passenger space.

[0016] In the above-mentioned motion sickness reduction device, the display device may be a film light source in the form of a film.

[0017] In the above-mentioned motion sickness reduction device, the film light source may be an organic EL or a film-type LED.

[0018] In addition, the above-mentioned motion sickness reduction device may further include a horizontal line setting unit that sets at least one of a color and a width of the horizontal line, and the display device may display the horizontal line with the set color and width.

[0019] In the above motion sickness reduction device, the display device may display an image including the horizontal line.

[0020] In the above-described motion sickness reduction device, the display device may be provided on at least a part of a wall surface surrounding the passenger space on all four sides.

[0021] The motion sickness reduction method disclosed herein is a method for reducing motion sickness that displays a horizontal line extending horizontally perpendicular to the direction of gravity of a vehicle having a passenger space in which people ride, regardless of the inclination of the vehicle.

[0022] With this configuration, it is possible to provide passengers in a vehicle with visual information about how far they are leaning relative to the horizontal (and, as a result, reduce motion sickness caused by a sense of balance).

[0023] This is achieved by displaying a horizontal line extending in a horizontal direction perpendicular to the direction of gravity of a vehicle having a passenger space for passengers, regardless of the inclination of the vehicle. Effect of the Invention

[0024] The present disclosure makes it possible to provide a motion sickness reduction device and a motion sickness reduction method that can provide a person riding in a vehicle with visual information about the degree to which he or she is leaning relative to the horizontal (and thereby reduce motion sickness caused by the sense of balance). [Brief description of the drawings]

[0025] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram of a motion sickness reduction device 10 (film light source 20) provided in the passenger space of a vehicle V. [Diagram 2] (a) An example of a front horizontal line HL20F displayed on the front film light source 20F when the vehicle V is not tilted (e.g., when the vehicle V is on a horizontal plane), (b) an example of a front horizontal line HL20F displayed on the front film light source 20F when the vehicle V is tilted to the left (e.g., when traveling around a left curve), and (c) an example of a front horizontal line HL20F displayed on the front film light source 20F when the vehicle V is tilted to the right (e.g., when traveling around a right curve). [Diagram 3] (a) An example of a left horizontal line HL20L displayed on the left film light source 20L when the vehicle V is not tilted (e.g., when the vehicle V is on a horizontal plane), (b) an example of a left horizontal line HL20L displayed on the left film light source 20L when the vehicle V is tilted backwards (e.g., when traveling uphill), and (c) an example of a left horizontal line HL20L displayed on the left film light source 20L when the vehicle V is tilted forward (e.g., when traveling downhill). [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining an environment for an experiment performed by the present inventors. [Diagram 5] 1 is a graph summarizing the results of a questionnaire conducted in an experiment carried out by the present inventors. [Figure 6]11 is another graph summarizing the results of the questionnaire conducted in the experiment conducted by the present inventors. [Figure 7] 1 is a configuration diagram of a motion sickness reduction device 10. FIG. [Figure 8] 2 is a diagram for explaining the X-axis and Y-axis of the inertial sensor 40 mounted on the vehicle V. FIG. [Figure 9] 2 is a diagram for explaining the external shape of a film light source 20. FIG. [Figure 10] 1 is a flowchart of a horizontal line display process 1. [Figure 11] (a) An example of a horizontal line HL displayed as a result of horizontal line display process 1 (and horizontal line display process 2), (b) an example of a horizontal line HL displayed as a result of horizontal line display process 1, and (c) an example of a horizontal line HL displayed as a result of horizontal line display process 2. [Figure 12] 13 is a flowchart of a horizontal line display process 2. [Figure 13] 13 is a flowchart of a bright point display process. [Figure 14] This is an example of a bright spot display. [Figure 15] This is a modified example of the film light source 20 to be provided. [Figure 16] FIG. 2 is a configuration diagram of a motion sickness reduction device 10 (modification). [Figure 17] 13 is a modified example of the display form of the horizontal line HL. [Figure 18] This is a modified example in which a liquid crystal panel 20A is used instead of the film light source 20. [Figure 19] This is a modified example in which vehicle V is an autonomous vehicle. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0026] Hereinafter, a motion sickness reduction device 10 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In each drawing, corresponding components are given the same reference numerals, and duplicated explanations will be omitted.

[0027] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a motion sickness reduction device 10 (film light source 20) provided in the passenger compartment of a vehicle V.

[0028] As shown in Fig. 1, the motion sickness reduction device 10 is provided in a passenger space of a vehicle V (see Fig. 2, for example) having a passenger space in which a person (one or more) rides in order to reduce motion sickness. The motion sickness reduction device 10 generates a horizontal line HL 20F , H.L. 20L , H.L. 20R The vehicle V is equipped with a film light source 20 (an example of the display device of the present disclosure) that displays an image (see FIG. 1). The vehicle V is, for example, an automobile. The film light source 20 is, for example, an organic EL or OP film. In FIG. 1, reference numeral 80 denotes a driver's seat, reference numeral 81 denotes a passenger seat, and reference numeral 82 denotes a rear seat.

[0029] The film light source 20 is provided, for example, on the windshield FG, side windows SGL, and SGR of the vehicle V. Hereinafter, the film light source 20 provided on the windshield FG will be referred to as the front film light source 20F. Similarly, the film light source provided on the left side window SGL will be referred to as the left film light source 20L. Similarly, the film light source provided on the right side window SGR will be referred to as the right film light source 20R. Note that when there is no particular distinction between these, they will simply be referred to as the film light source 20.

[0030] In addition, the horizontal line HL displayed on the front film light source 20F is the front horizontal line HL 20F Similarly, the horizontal line HL displayed on the left film light source 20L is called the left horizontal line HL 20L Similarly, the horizontal line HL displayed on the right film light source 20R is called the right horizontal line HL 20R When there is no need to distinguish between these, they are simply called horizontal lines HL.

[0031] FIG. 2(a) shows a front horizontal line HL 1 displayed on the front film light source 20F when the vehicle V is not tilted (e.g., when the vehicle V is on a horizontal plane). 20FFIG. 2(b) shows an example of a front horizontal line HL displayed on the front film light source 20F when the vehicle V leans to the left (for example, when traveling around a left curve). 20F FIG. 2(c) shows an example of the front horizontal line HL displayed on the front film light source 20F when the vehicle V leans to the right (for example, when driving around a right curve). 20F This is an example.

[0032] FIG. 3(a) shows a left horizontal line HL displayed on the left film light source 20L when the vehicle V is not tilted (e.g., when the vehicle V is on a horizontal plane). 20L FIG. 3(b) shows an example of a left horizontal line HL displayed on the left film light source 20L when the vehicle V is tilted backward (e.g., when traveling uphill). 20L FIG. 3(c) shows an example of a left horizontal line HL displayed on the left film light source 20L when the vehicle V is tilted forward (e.g., when traveling downhill). 20L Although not shown, the right horizontal line HL 20R Left horizontal line HL 20L Similarly, the right film light source 20R is displayed.

[0033] As shown in Figs. 2(a) to 2(c) and 3(a) to 3(c), the horizontal line HL (front horizontal line HL 20F , Left Horizontal Line HL 20L , Right horizontal line HL 20R ) is the gravity direction A of the vehicle V regardless of the inclination of the vehicle V. V These are light lines (lines formed by light) displayed on the film light sources 20 (front film light source 20F, left film light source 20L, right film light source 20R) in a state where they extend in a horizontal direction perpendicular to the light axis.

[0034] The inventors have confirmed through experiments that motion sickness can be reduced by displaying the horizontal line HL in the passenger space of the vehicle V as described above.

[0035] The experiments carried out by the present inventors will now be described.

[0036] FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining the environment of the experiment carried out by the present inventors.

[0037] This experiment was carried out using an automobile as the vehicle V. There were 45 subjects. As shown in FIG. 4, this experiment involved projecting green horizontal lines HL by projectors PR1 to PR3 onto white screens S1 to S3 (screens that block light from entering the passenger space of the rear seats) provided in front of and on both the left and right sides of the subject TS (TS1 and TS2 in FIG. 4) seated in the rear seat of the automobile. S1 , H.L. S2 , H.L. S3 The projected environment and the horizontal line HL S1 , H.L. S2 , H.L. S3 The experiment was carried out twice in a total in an environment where no horizontal line HL was projected. S1 , H.L. S2 , H.L. S3 The width of the horizontal line is about 1 cm. S1 , H.L. S2 , H.L. S3 The experiment conducted in the environment where the horizontal line HL is projected is called the "experiment with horizontal line". S1 , H.L. S2 , H.L. S3 The experiment conducted in an environment where no horizontal line was projected is called the "experiment without horizontal line."

[0038] In addition, the horizontal line HL S1 , H.L. S2 , H.L. S3 In order to maintain the horizontal line HL regardless of the inclination of the vehicle. S1 , H.L. S2 , H.L. S3 The projectors PR1 to PR3 were attached to a stabilizer installed inside the automobile so that the projectors PR1 to PR3 were aligned along a horizontal line that extended in a horizontal direction perpendicular to the direction of gravity of the automobile.

[0039] In both the experiment with and without horizontal lines, the vehicle was driven at a speed of 40 km / h on the same road (three laps of a road with a total length of approximately 5 km, approximately 30 curves, and an elevation difference of approximately 40 m).

[0040] In each of the experiments with and without horizontal lines, each subject sat in the back seat of a car traveling under the above conditions, read the text displayed on a mobile device (smartphone or tablet) held in their hand, and entered their answers to a questionnaire displayed on the mobile device every two minutes (rating their own state of motion sickness on an 11-point scale from 0 to 10 (subjective evaluation)). In the experiment with horizontal lines, "light" was perceived in each subject's peripheral vision, i.e., the horizontal lines HL displayed (projected) on the screens S1 to S3. S1 , H.L. S2 , H.L. S3 The purpose is to make people aware of horizontality.

[0041] FIG. 5 is a graph summarizing the results of a questionnaire survey conducted in an experiment conducted by the present inventors.

[0042] In Fig. 5, the vertical axis represents the discomfort index, i.e., an 11-point rating (subjective rating) from 0 to 10, while the horizontal axis represents the elapsed time (minutes) from the start of the experiment. In Fig. 5, the meanings of the black circles (multiple), white circles (multiple), lines L1 and L2, and the numbers "5.60" and "3.37" are as follows:

[0043] That is, the black circles (multiple) represent the discomfort index (average value) in the experiment without a horizontal line, i.e., the average value of the 11-point rating (subjective rating) entered by each subject in the experiment without a horizontal line. Line L1 represents an approximation line to the black circles (multiple). On the other hand, the white circles (multiple) represent the discomfort index (average value) in the experiment with a horizontal line, i.e., the average value of the 11-point rating (subjective rating) entered by each subject in the experiment with a horizontal line. Line L2 represents an approximation line to the white circles (multiple).

[0044] The number "5.60" represents the average of the 11-point ratings (discomfort index) entered by each subject at the end (after 28 minutes) of the experiment without horizontal lines, while the number "3.37" represents the average of the 11-point ratings (discomfort index) entered by each subject at the end (after 28 minutes) of the experiment with horizontal lines.

[0045] 5, it can be seen that the discomfort index (average value) in the experiment with horizontal lines is lower than that in the experiment without horizontal lines, from 5.60 to 3.37, i.e., the improvement rate (average value) is (3.37 / 5.60)×100≒60%. The reason why the average values ​​of the 11-point evaluation (discomfort index) last entered by each subject (after 28 minutes) "5.60" and "3.37" were used is as follows. That is, the state of motion sickness (discomfort index) gradually changes in an upward direction over time, so that the average values ​​of the 11-point evaluation (discomfort index) last entered by each subject (after 28 minutes) "5.60" and "3.37" are considered to best reflect the state of motion sickness (discomfort index).

[0046] FIG. 6 is another graph summarizing the results of the questionnaire conducted in the experiment carried out by the present inventors.

[0047] The figure "18%" and "Effective by the line (1.8 ≧)" in FIG. 6 represent the percentage of subjects (8 people) whose difference ΔA (discomfort index A1-discomfort index A2) between the last 11-point evaluation (after 28 minutes) entered in the experiment without the horizontal line (hereafter referred to as discomfort index A1) and the last 11-point evaluation (after 28 minutes) entered in the experiment with the horizontal line (hereafter referred to as discomfort index A2) was 1.8 or more. Similarly, the figure "7%" and "Effective by the line (1.8 ≧)" represent the percentage of subjects (3 people) whose difference ΔA (discomfort index A1-discomfort index A2) was less than 1.8 and 1 or more. Similarly, the figure "11%" and "Effective by the line (1 <)" represent the percentage of subjects (5 people) whose difference ΔA (discomfort index A1-discomfort index A2) was less than 1 and 0 or more. In FIG. 6, effective = A1-A2 = +1.8 is described as "effective due to line (1.8≧)", while no effect = A1-A2 = -1.8 is described as "no effect due to line (1.8≧)".

[0048] Here, when the difference ΔA (discomfort index A1-discomfort index A2) is positive, it indicates that the discomfort index has been reduced by displaying (projecting) the horizontal line HL. In other words, when the difference ΔA (discomfort index A1-discomfort index A2) is positive, it indicates that the motion sickness has been reduced by displaying (projecting) the horizontal line HL.

[0049] Referring to FIG. 6, it can be seen that the subjects with a positive difference ΔA (discomfort index A1-discomfort index A2), i.e., the subjects whose motion sickness was reduced by displaying (projecting) the horizontal line HL, were 16 subjects in total (approximately 36% of the total subjects), including subjects with a difference ΔA of 1.8 or more (8 subjects), subjects with a difference ΔA of less than 1.8 and 1 or more (3 subjects), and subjects with a difference ΔA of less than 1 and 0 or more (5 subjects).

[0050] From the above experiments, it is understood that motion sickness can be reduced by displaying the horizontal line HL in the passenger space of the vehicle V (for example, the film light source 20 provided in the passenger space).

[0051] The reason why motion sickness can be reduced by displaying the horizontal line HL in the riding space of the vehicle V can be considered as follows.

[0052] First, the cause of motion sickness is generally thought to be as follows: When a vehicle (e.g., a car) experiences irregular acceleration and deceleration, repeated stopping and starting, and shaking in all directions as it travels on roads with continuous ups and downs and curves, a discrepancy occurs between the information input through vision and transmitted to the brain and the information input from the inner ear (semicircular canals and otolith organs) and transmitted to the brain (e.g., body position, shaking, speed). As a result, the brain is unable to process all the information, and the symptoms of motion sickness occur. (https: / / www.ssp.co.jp / aneron / cause / mechanism.html).

[0053] In contrast, by displaying the horizontal line HL in the riding space of the vehicle as in the above experiment, it is possible to suppress (or reduce) the discrepancy between the information input through the eyesight and transmitted to the brain and the information input from the inner ear (semicircular canals and otolith organs) and transmitted to the brain (for example, body position, sway, speed). As a result, it is believed that motion sickness was reduced.

[0054] Next, a configuration example of the motion sickness reduction device 10 will be described.

[0055] The motion sickness reduction device 10 is mounted on a vehicle V. Below, an example in which the vehicle V is an automobile will be described.

[0056] FIG. 7 is a configuration diagram of the motion sickness reduction device 10. As shown in FIG.

[0057] As shown in FIG. 7, the motion sickness reduction device 10 includes an ECU (Electronic Control Unit) 30, an inertial sensor 40, an imaging device 50, a navigation device 60, and an interior light 70.

[0058] The ECU 30 is a control device including, for example, a CPU, a RAM, and a ROM (not shown). The ECU 30 functions as a detection result acquisition unit 31, a vehicle inclination calculation unit 32, a horizontal line display unit 33, and a road condition detection unit 34 by the CPU executing a predetermined program loaded from the ROM to the RAM. Note that some or all of these may be realized by hardware.

[0059] The ECU 30 is electrically connected to an inertial sensor 40, an imaging device 50, a navigation device 60, and a vehicle interior light 70.

[0060] The inertial sensor 40 is a sensor that detects the inertial force acting on the vehicle V (accelerations of the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis, and angular velocities of the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis). As shown in FIG. 8, the X-axis extends in the front-rear direction of the vehicle V, the Y-axis extends in the width direction of the vehicle V, and the Z-axis extends in a direction perpendicular to the X-axis and Y-axis. FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining the X-axis and Y-axis of the inertial sensor 40 mounted on the vehicle V. For example, a 6-axis IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit) or a 3-axis IMU can be used as the inertial sensor 40. The inertial sensor 40 may be one (reference) or multiple. The inertial sensor 40 is provided at a position (optimum position) that is considered so as to be able to detect the inertial force acting on the vehicle V (accelerations of the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis, and angular velocities of the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis).

[0061] The imaging device 50 is a camera (including an imaging element such as a CCD sensor or a CMOS sensor) that captures an image of the area in front of the vehicle V, and is provided at a predetermined location (e.g., the passenger space) of the vehicle V. The image (image data) captured by the imaging device 50 is input to the ECU 30.

[0062] Although not shown, the navigation device 60 includes a route search unit, a route guidance unit, a current position detection unit, a map information storage unit, etc. The route search unit searches for a route from a departure point (e.g., the current position of the vehicle V) to the destination of the vehicle V based on map information stored in the map information storage unit. The route guidance unit provides guidance on the route searched by the route search unit. The current position detection unit detects the current position of the vehicle V based on a signal from a GPS (not shown) installed in the vehicle V. The map information storage unit stores map information.

[0063] The detection result acquisition unit 31 acquires the detection results of the inertial sensor 40 from the inertial sensor 40 (the accelerations of the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis, and the angular velocities of the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis).

[0064] The vehicle inclination calculation unit 32 calculates the inclination of the vehicle V (roll angle φ, pitch angle θ, etc.; see FIG. 8) based on the detection results acquired by the detection result acquisition unit 31.

[0065] The horizontal line display unit 33 creates a horizontal line HL based on the inclination (roll angle φ, pitch angle θ, etc.) of the vehicle V calculated by the vehicle inclination calculation unit 32, and displays the created horizontal line HL on the film light source 20 by controlling the control circuit 71. The width W1 (see FIG. 2(a)) and lengths LE1 to LE3 (see FIG. 2(a) and FIG. 3(a)) of the horizontal line HL may be any appropriate width and length. The color and brightness (luminance) of the horizontal line HL may be any appropriate color and brightness. The color of the horizontal line HL may be a single color or multiple colors.

[0066] The road condition detection unit 34 detects the road conditions on which the vehicle V is traveling (the road conditions corresponding to the current position of the vehicle V, etc.) based on information input from the imaging device 50 and the navigation device 60.

[0067] The interior light 70 includes a control circuit 71 and a film light source 20 .

[0068] The control circuit 71 , under the control of the ECU 30 , controls the film light source 20 so that the horizontal line HL generated by the horizontal line display unit 33 is displayed on the film light source 20 .

[0069] The film light source 20 is a film-like film light source (display) that displays the horizontal line HL, and is provided in the vehicle space. The film light source 20 is an example of a display device of the present disclosure. For example, an organic EL (including an organic LED) or a film-like LED can be used as the film light source 20. The film-like LED is a film light source that includes a plurality of semiconductor light-emitting elements that are fixed in a two-dimensional (or three-dimensional) arrangement on a flexible film.

[0070] As shown in FIG. 1, the film light source 20 (front film light source 20F, left film light source 20L, right film light source 20R) is provided, for example, on the windshield FG, side windows SGL, and SGR of the vehicle V that constitute the wall surfaces surrounding the passenger space. As shown in FIG. 9, the outer shape of the film light source 20 is, for example, rectangular. FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining the outer shape of the film light source 20. A reflective film (half mirror, white film, milky white film) may be laminated on the back surface of the film light source 20. Note that parts of the windshield FG and side windows SGL and SGR may be milky white. Note that the film light source 20 may also be provided on the rear glass (not shown) that constitutes the wall surfaces surrounding the passenger space.

[0071] Next, the horizontal line display process 1 will be described.

[0072] Fig. 10 is a flowchart of the horizontal line display process 1. Fig. 11(a) and Fig. 11(b) show an example of a horizontal line HL displayed as a result of the horizontal line display process 1.

[0073] Hereinafter, as horizontal line display process 1, a process for displaying a horizontal line HL on the film light source 20 when the vehicle V tilts to the right (right when facing the front of the vehicle V) at an angle +φ (hereinafter referred to as roll angle +φ; see FIG. 2(c)) will be described. For simplicity of explanation, only the roll angle +φ will be considered below, and the pitch angle θ will not be considered.

[0074] First, the road conditions are detected (step S10). This is realized by the road conditions detection unit .

[0075] Next, it is determined whether or not the road conditions detected in step S10 satisfy predetermined conditions (step S11). This is achieved by the ECU 30 executing a predetermined program. The predetermined conditions are conditions used to determine whether or not the road conditions detected in step S10 (the road currently being traveled or the road to be traveled) are road conditions that may induce motion sickness, and are, for example, a slope (a slope with a certain gradient or more), a curved road (a curved road with a certain curvature or more), or a straight road traveled with a certain acceleration force or less.

[0076] As a result, if it is determined that the road conditions detected in step S10 satisfy the predetermined conditions (step S11: YES), the processes in and after step S12 are executed.

[0077] Next, the detection result output by the inertial sensor 40 is acquired (step S12). This is realized by the detection result acquisition unit 31.

[0078] Next, the roll angle φ is calculated (step S13). This is realized by the vehicle tilt calculation unit 32. Here, it is assumed that the roll angle +φ is calculated because the vehicle V tilts to the right (to the right when facing the front of the vehicle V) (see FIG. 2(c)).

[0079] Next, it is determined whether or not the roll angle φ exceeds a threshold value (step S14), which is achieved by the ECU 30 executing a predetermined program.

[0080] As a result, if it is determined that the roll angle +φ does not exceed the threshold value (step S14: No), that is, if the vehicle V is not tilted to the left or right, a horizontal line HL is displayed on the film light source 20 (step S15). Specifically, as shown in FIG. 11(a), a horizontal line AX H A front horizontal line HL extending parallel to 20F Similarly, the left film light source 20L is displayed with a reference horizontal line AX passing through the reference center point CP. HThe left horizontal line HL extends parallel to 20L Similarly, the right film light source 20R is displayed with a reference horizontal line AX passing through the reference center point CP. H Right horizontal line HL extending parallel to 20R Display.

[0081] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S14 that the roll angle φ exceeds the threshold value (step S14: Yes), that is, if the vehicle V tilts to the right (or left) (see FIG. 2(c)), then as shown in FIG. 11(b), a front horizontal line HL inclined at an angle -φ (see FIG. 11(b)) opposite to the roll angle +φ (see FIG. 2(c)) is displayed on the front film light source 20F. 20F is displayed (step S16).

[0082] Next, the left film light source 20L, the front horizontal line HL 20F A left horizontal line HL continues to the left end of 20L (Step S17). The left horizontal line HL 20L is the left horizontal line HL shown in FIG. 20L The horizontal line AX H This corresponds to a downward shift of BL×tanφ from the reference center point CP, where BL is the distance between the reference center point CP and the boundary L (the boundary between the left film light source 20L and the front film light source 20F).

[0083] Next, the right film light source 20R is connected to the front horizontal line HL 20F A right horizontal line HL continues to the right end of 20R (Step S18). The right horizontal line HL 20R is the right horizontal line HL shown in FIG. 20R The horizontal line AX H BR×tanφ is an upward shift from the reference center point CP, where BR is the distance between the reference center point CP and the boundary R (the boundary between the right film light source 20R and the front film light source 20F).

[0084] The processes of steps S12 to S18 are repeatedly executed while the road conditions detected in step S10 satisfy a predetermined condition (while the determination result in step S11 is YES).

[0085] Next, the horizontal line display process 2 will be described.

[0086] Fig. 12 is a flowchart of the horizontal line display process 2. Fig. 11(a) and Fig. 11(c) show an example of a horizontal line HL displayed as a result of the horizontal line display process 2.

[0087] Hereinafter, as horizontal line display process 2, a process for displaying a horizontal line HL on the film light source 20 when the vehicle V is tilted forward at an angle -θ (hereinafter referred to as pitch angle -θ; see FIG. 3(c)) will be described. For simplicity of explanation, only the pitch angle -θ will be considered below, and the roll angle φ will not be considered.

[0088] First, the road conditions are detected (step S20). This is realized by the road conditions detection unit .

[0089] Next, it is determined whether or not the road conditions detected in step S20 satisfy predetermined conditions (step S21). This is achieved by the ECU 30 executing a predetermined program. The predetermined conditions are conditions used to determine whether or not the road conditions detected in step S20 (the road currently being traveled or the road to be traveled) are road conditions that may induce motion sickness, and are, for example, a slope (a slope with a certain gradient or more), a curved road (a curved road with a certain curvature or more), or a straight road traveled with a certain acceleration force or less.

[0090] As a result, if it is determined that the road conditions detected in step S20 satisfy the predetermined conditions (step S21: YES), the processes in and after step S22 are executed.

[0091] Next, the detection result output by the inertial sensor 40 is acquired (step S22). This is realized by the detection result acquisition unit 31.

[0092] Next, the pitch angle θ is calculated (step S23). This is realized by the vehicle tilt calculation unit 32. Here, it is assumed that the pitch angle -θ is calculated because the vehicle V tilts forward (see FIG. 3(c)).

[0093] Next, it is determined whether or not the pitch angle θ exceeds a threshold value (step S24), which is achieved by the ECU 30 executing a predetermined program.

[0094] As a result, if it is determined that the pitch angle θ does not exceed the threshold value (step S24: No), that is, if the vehicle V is not tilted forward or backward, a horizontal line HL is displayed on the film light source 20 (step S25). Specifically, as shown in FIG. 11(a), a horizontal line AX that passes through the reference center point CP and is aligned with the reference horizontal line AX is displayed on the front film light source 20F. H A front horizontal line HL extending parallel to 20F Similarly, the left film light source 20L is displayed with a reference horizontal line AX passing through the reference center point CP. H The left horizontal line HL extends parallel to 20L Similarly, the right film light source 20R is displayed with a reference horizontal line AX passing through the reference center point CP. H Right horizontal line HL extending parallel to 20R Display.

[0095] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S24 that the pitch angle θ exceeds the threshold value (step S24: Yes), that is, if the vehicle V is tilted forward (or backward), the front horizontal line HL 20F (Step S26). The previous horizontal line HL 20F passes through the reference center point CP and the reference horizontal line AX H It extends parallel to.

[0096] Next, the left film light source 20L, the front horizontal line HL 20F The left horizontal line HL is connected to the left end of the left side ... 20L is displayed (step S27).

[0097] Next, the right film light source 20R is connected to the front horizontal line HL 20F The right horizontal line HL is connected to the right end of the right-hand side of the horizontal line HL and is inclined at an angle -θ (see FIG. 11(c)) similar to the pitch angle -θ (see FIG. 3(c)). 20R is displayed (step S28).

[0098] The processes of steps S22 to S28 are repeatedly executed while the road conditions detected in step S20 satisfy a predetermined condition (while the determination result in step S21 is YES).

[0099] Although the horizontal line display process 1 and the horizontal line display process 2 have been described separately above, the two processes may be executed simultaneously. Furthermore, the following bright point display process may be executed in addition to these processes.

[0100] Next, the bright point display process will be described.

[0101] The bright point display process is a process that displays, together with the horizontal line HL displayed in the horizontal line display process 1 or the horizontal line display process 2, a bright point BP (see Figure 14) that moves along the horizontal line HL in a direction corresponding to the acceleration and deceleration of the vehicle V.

[0102] Fig. 13 is a flowchart of the bright spot display process, and Fig. 14 is an example of the bright spot display.

[0103] The bright point display process shown in FIG. 13 is executed, for example, after steps S25 and S28 shown in FIG.

[0104] First, the detection result output by the inertial sensor 40 is acquired (step S30). This is realized by the detection result acquisition unit 31.

[0105] Next, it is determined whether the acceleration exceeds a threshold value (step S31), and if it is determined that the acceleration exceeds a threshold value, it is further determined whether the acceleration is accelerating or decelerating (step S32). This is realized by the ECU 30 executing a predetermined program.

[0106] As a result, if it is determined that acceleration has occurred (step S32: acceleration), as shown in Figure 14(a), a horizontal line HL is displayed on the film light source 20, along with a bright spot BP (see Figure 14(b)) that moves along the horizontal line HL in a direction corresponding to the acceleration of the vehicle V, for example, starting from the rear ends of the left film light source 20L and right film light source 20R and heading toward the central end point of the front film light source 20F (see the arrow in the middle of Figure 14(a)).

[0107] On the other hand, if it is determined that deceleration is occurring (step S32: deceleration), as shown in Figure 14(b), together with the horizontal line HL, a bright spot BP (see Figure 14(b)) is displayed moving along the horizontal line HL in a direction corresponding to the deceleration of the vehicle V, for example, starting from the center of the front film light source 20F and heading toward the end points at the rear ends of the left film light source 20L and right film light source 20R (see the arrows in the middle of Figure 14(b)).

[0108] The processes of steps S30 to S34 are repeatedly executed while the road conditions detected in step S20 satisfy a predetermined condition (while the determination result in step S21 is YES).

[0109] In this way, by moving the bright point BP to match the bodily sensation, it is expected that the motion sickness felt during acceleration and deceleration can be reduced by providing information to the visual sense in the same way as the otoliths, which sense linear acceleration.

[0110] Conversely, when it is determined that acceleration has occurred (step S32: acceleration), as shown in FIG. 14(b), a bright spot BP (see FIG. 14(b)) that starts from the center of the front film light source 20F and moves in a direction toward the end point of the rear end of the left film light source 20L and the right film light source 20R (see the arrow in FIG. 14(b)) may be displayed together with the horizontal line HL. Similarly, when it is determined that deceleration has occurred (step S32: deceleration), as shown in FIG. 14(a), a bright spot BP (see FIG. 14(b)) that starts from the rear end of the left film light source 20L and the right film light source 20R and moves in a direction toward the end point of the center of the front film light source 20F (see the arrow in FIG. 14(a)) may be displayed together with the horizontal line HL on the film light source 20. In this embodiment, the movement direction of the bright spot is specified by acceleration and deceleration, but depending on the occupant and road conditions, it may be better to move in the opposite direction.

[0111] As described above, according to this embodiment, it is possible to provide a person riding in a vehicle V with visual information about the degree to which he or she is leaning relative to the horizontal (as a result, motion sickness caused by a sense of balance can be reduced).

[0112] This is achieved by displaying a horizontal line HL extending horizontally perpendicular to the direction of gravity of the vehicle V in the passenger space of the vehicle V, which has a passenger space in which people ride, regardless of the inclination of the vehicle V.

[0113] In addition, by displaying the horizontal line HL, a person riding on the vehicle V can predict the movement of the vehicle V, and can naturally prepare for the movement of the vehicle V. In addition, a sense of security can be given to the person riding on the vehicle V.

[0114] Next, a modified example will be described.

[0115] FIG. 15 shows a modified example of the location where the film light source 20 is provided.

[0116] In the above embodiment, an example (see FIG. 1) has been described in which the film light source 20 is provided on the windshield FG, side windows SGL, and SGR of the vehicle V that constitute the wall surfaces surrounding the passenger space, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, as shown in FIG. 15(a), the film light source 20 may be provided on the front dashboard or side door provided in the passenger space. Also, as shown in FIG. 15(b), the film light source 20 may be further provided on the rear seat (for example, on the rear surface of the front seat or on the rear dashboard).

[0117] FIG. 16 is a configuration diagram of a motion sickness reduction device 10 (modification).

[0118] 16, the motion sickness reduction device 10 may further include a horizontal line setting unit 35. The horizontal line setting unit 35 sets at least one of the color and width of the horizontal line HL in response to a user operation. Furthermore, the horizontal line setting unit 35 may set the brightness (luminance) of the horizontal line HL in response to a user operation. Although not shown, the horizontal line HL is displayed on the film light source 20 with the color, width, and brightness (luminance) set by the horizontal line setting unit 35.

[0119] FIG. 17 shows a modified example of the display form of the horizontal line HL.

[0120] 17(a), a background color or background image BG may be displayed together with a horizontal line HL on the film light source 20. The background image BG may be a still image or a moving image.

[0121] 17(b), the film light source 20 may display an image G including a horizontal line HL, for example, an image of a natural environment including a horizon line corresponding to the horizontal line HL. The image G may be a still image or a moving image. In this way, it is expected that motion sickness will be reduced and nervous excitement will be suppressed.

[0122] In the above embodiment, an example has been described in which an automobile is used as the vehicle V, but the invention is not limited thereto. In other words, the vehicle V may have any configuration as long as it has a passenger space for a person (one or more people) to board, and may be, for example, a vehicle other than an automobile, such as a bus, an autonomous vehicle, a ship, a bus, a train, an airplane, or a spaceship.

[0123] FIG. 18 shows a modified example in which a liquid crystal panel 20A is used instead of the film light source 20. In FIG.

[0124] For example, when an autonomous vehicle is used as the vehicle V, as shown in FIG. 18, a liquid crystal panel 20A may be provided instead of a film light source 20 so as to cover the entire front windshield FG, side windows SGL, and SGR of the vehicle V, which constitute the wall surfaces surrounding the passenger space.

[0125] In this way, in addition to displaying the horizontal line HL, the light environment of the entire riding space can be controlled. For example, in addition to displaying the horizontal line HL (e.g., green) on the liquid crystal panel 20A, a color that calms the nerves (e.g., black) is displayed in the background, thereby controlling the light environment of the entire riding space. This is expected to control the activity of the sympathetic and parasympathetic nerves and further reduce the symptoms of motion sickness. It can also suppress nervous excitement.

[0126] In the above embodiment, an example in which the film light source 20 is used as the display device has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this. That is, the display device may have any configuration as long as it can display the horizontal line HL, and may be, for example, a liquid crystal display installed in the passenger space, a projector that projects the horizontal line HL onto a screen (for example, a wall surface surrounding the passenger space) installed in the passenger space, or an aerial visible image drawing device that displays (draws) the horizontal line HL in the passenger space itself. Also, the expression medium of the horizontal line HL may be anything provided in the passenger space. That is, there are no limitations on the surface and position of the expression medium of the horizontal line HL.

[0127] In the above embodiment, an example (see FIG. 10) has been described in which the process from step S12 onwards is executed when it is determined that the road conditions satisfy the predetermined conditions (step S11: YES), but this is not limiting. For example, when a person riding in the vehicle V turns on a horizontal line display switch (not shown) provided in the riding space, the process from step S12 onwards may be executed. Similarly, an example (see FIG. 12) has been described in which the process from step S22 onwards is executed when it is determined that the road conditions satisfy the predetermined conditions (step S21: YES), but this is not limiting. For example, when a person riding in the vehicle V turns on a horizontal line display switch (not shown) provided in the riding space, the process from step S22 onwards may be executed.

[0128] FIG. 19 shows a modified example in which vehicle V is an automatically-operable vehicle.

[0129] In the above embodiment, an example (see FIG. 1) has been described in which the horizontal line HL is displayed on a part of the wall surface surrounding the passenger space (the windshield FG, side glass SGL, SGR of the vehicle V constituting the wall surface), but the present invention is not limited to this. The windshield refers to the glass or wall surface on the traveling direction side of the vehicle V, the side glass refers to the glass or wall surface on the vehicle width direction side (or the horizontal side perpendicular to the traveling direction) of the vehicle V, and the rear glass refers to the glass or wall surface on the opposite side to the traveling direction side of the vehicle V. The windshield and the like may be made of a material other than glass, for example, another material such as a plastic such as polycarbonate. They may also be made of an opaque material, or may further be a translucent colored material or an opaque colored material.

[0130] For example, as shown in Fig. 19, when an autonomous vehicle is used as the vehicle V, the horizontal line HL may be displayed on the entire periphery of the wall surface surrounding the riding space. Fig. 19 is a diagram (schematic diagram) showing the vehicle V (autonomously operable vehicle) traveling on a slope.

[0131] The numerical values ​​shown in the above embodiments are all examples, and it goes without saying that suitable numerical values ​​different from these can be used.

[0132] The above-described embodiments are merely examples in all respects. The present disclosure should not be construed as being limited by the description of the above-described embodiments. The present disclosure can be implemented in various other forms without departing from the spirit or main characteristics thereof. [Explanation of symbols]

[0133] 10...Reduction device 20...Film light source (display device) 20A…LCD panel 20F…Front film light source 20L…Left film light source 20R…Right film light source 30…ECU 31…Detection result acquisition unit 32...Vehicle tilt calculation unit 33...Horizontal line display section 34…Road condition detection unit 35…Horizontal line setting section 40...Inertial sensor 50...imaging device 60...Navigation device 70…Interior lights 71...Control circuit A V …Gravity direction AX H …Reference horizontal line BG: Background image BP…Bright spot CP…Reference center point FG…Windshield G...Image HL…Horizontal line HL 20F …Front horizontal line HL 20L … Left horizontal line HL 20R …Right horizontal line HL S1 ~HL S3 ...Horizontal line PR1~PR3…Projector S1~S3…Screen SGL, SGR...Side glass TS: Subject V…Vehicle θ…Pitch angle φ…Roll angle

Claims

1. A display device provided in the passenger space of a vehicle having a passenger space for a person to ride, and displaying a horizontal line extending in a horizontal direction orthogonal to the gravitational direction of the vehicle in the passenger space regardless of the inclination of the vehicle. The display device is a device for reducing vehicle sickness, which displays a bright spot that moves in a direction corresponding to the acceleration and deceleration of the vehicle along the horizontal line together with the horizontal line.

2. The vehicle further includes a road condition detection unit that detects the road condition on which the vehicle travels. The display device is the vehicle sickness reduction device according to claim 1, which displays the horizontal line when the road condition satisfies a predetermined condition.

3. The predetermined condition is a slope, a curved road, or a straight road traveling at a predetermined acceleration force or less, according to the vehicle sickness reduction device of claim 2.

4. The display device is disposed on the side of the vehicle. When the vehicle accelerates, the bright spot starts from the rear end of the side display device and moves. When the vehicle decelerates, the bright spot moves toward the end point of the rear end of the side display device, according to the vehicle sickness reduction device of claim 1.

5. The display device is disposed in front of the vehicle. When the vehicle accelerates, the bright spot moves toward the end point at the center of the front display device. When the vehicle decelerates, the bright spot starts from the center of the front display device and moves, according to the vehicle sickness reduction device of claim 4.

6. The display device is disposed on the side of the vehicle. When the vehicle accelerates, the bright spot moves toward the rear end of the side display device. When the vehicle decelerates, the bright spot starts from the rear end of the side display device and moves, according to the vehicle sickness reduction device of claim 1.

7. The display device is disposed in front of the vehicle. When the vehicle accelerates, the bright spot starts from the center of the front display device and moves. When the vehicle decelerates, the bright spot moves toward the end point at the center of the front display device, according to the vehicle sickness reduction device of claim 6.

8. The display device is provided on a front glass and a side glass that constitute a wall surface surrounding the passenger space, according to the vehicle sickness reduction device of any one of claims 1 to 3.

9. The display device is further provided on a rear glass that constitutes a wall surface surrounding the passenger space, according to the vehicle sickness reduction device of claim 8.

10. The display device is a vehicle motion sickness reduction device according to any one of claims 1 to 3 provided on a front dashboard provided in the passenger space and on a side door.

11. The display device is a vehicle motion sickness reduction device according to claim 10 provided further on a rear dashboard provided in the passenger space.

12. The display device is a vehicle motion sickness reduction device according to claim 1 which is a film-like film light source.

13. The film light source is a vehicle motion sickness reduction device according to claim 12 which is an organic EL or a film-like LED.

14. The display device is a vehicle motion sickness reduction device according to claim 1 which is a liquid crystal display installed in the passenger space or a projector that projects the horizontal line onto a screen installed in the passenger space.

15. The vehicle motion sickness reduction device further includes a horizontal line setting unit that sets at least one of the color and width of the horizontal line, and the display device is a vehicle motion sickness reduction device according to claim 1 that displays the horizontal line in the set color and width.

16. The display device is a vehicle motion sickness reduction device according to claim 1 provided on at least a part of a wall surface surrounding the four sides of the passenger space.

17. A vehicle motion sickness reduction method in which the vehicle motion sickness reduction device according to claim 1 displays, in a passenger space of a vehicle having the passenger space in which a person rides, a horizontal line extending in a horizontal direction orthogonal to the gravitational direction of the vehicle regardless of the inclination of the vehicle, and a bright spot that moves in a direction corresponding to the acceleration and deceleration of the vehicle along the horizontal line.

Images