Passenger protection device for vehicle

Abstract

To protect a passenger, especially a child, left behind in a vehicle.SOLUTION: A passenger protection device 10 for a vehicle comprises a control unit 21 which executes a temperature normalization measure. The temperature normalization measure includes a measure of automatically opening a window and a measure of adjusting the temperature by an air conditioner 46. The control unit 21 performs control to execute the measure of adjusting the temperature by the air conditioner 46 if the temperature in the cabin remains outside a set temperature range even after executing the measure of automatically opening the window, thereby protecting a passenger, especially a child, left behind in the vehicle.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a vehicle occupant protection device. [Background technology]

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, there have been known devices for protecting passengers, particularly children, who are left behind in a vehicle. Patent Document 1 discloses a vehicle control device in which a control means controls the operation of various mounted devices to automatically adjust the temperature inside the vehicle when the temperature inside the vehicle measured by a temperature sensor exceeds a preset temperature. Specifically, when the temperature inside the vehicle exceeds a preset temperature, the control means of the vehicle control device opens the windows, sunroof, or doors provided in the vehicle to adjust the temperature inside the vehicle and protect the occupants inside the vehicle. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2006-224894 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, the vehicle control device of Patent Document 1 does not consider what to do if the vehicle's windows, sunroof, or doors cannot be opened even though the control means has opened the windows, sunroof, or doors. Therefore, there is a problem that passengers, especially children, left inside the vehicle are not adequately protected when the vehicle's windows, etc. cannot be opened.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and has as its object to protect passengers, particularly children, who are left behind in a vehicle. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The present invention is an occupant protection device for a vehicle that protects occupants inside the vehicle, comprising an occupant detection means that detects occupants inside the vehicle, a vehicle speed detection means that detects the vehicle speed, an interior temperature detection means that detects the temperature inside the vehicle, and a control unit that executes temperature normalization measures to bring the interior temperature inside the vehicle within a set temperature range when the vehicle speed detection means determines that the vehicle is stopped, the occupant detection means detects an occupant inside the vehicle, and the interior temperature detection means detects that the temperature inside the vehicle is outside a set temperature range, the temperature normalization measures include measures to automatically open the windows and measures to adjust the temperature using an air conditioning unit, and the control unit controls the air conditioning unit to execute measures to adjust the temperature if the temperature inside the vehicle remains outside the set temperature range even after the measure to automatically open the windows is executed. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the present invention, it is possible to protect passengers, especially children, who are left in a vehicle. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a vehicle occupant protection device; [Figure 2] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a fenestration actuator. [Figure 3] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of another fenestration actuator. [Figure 4] 4 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing performed by a vehicle occupant protection device. [Figure 5] 4 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing performed by a vehicle occupant protection device. [Figure 6] 4 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing performed by a vehicle occupant protection device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] An embodiment of the present invention is a vehicle occupant protection device for protecting occupants in a vehicle, the device comprising: an occupant detection unit for detecting an occupant in the vehicle; a vehicle speed detection unit for detecting the vehicle speed; an interior temperature detection unit for detecting the interior temperature of the vehicle; and a control unit 21 for executing a temperature normalization measure to bring the interior temperature of the vehicle into a set temperature range when the vehicle speed detection unit determines that the vehicle is stopped, the occupant detection unit detects an occupant in the vehicle, and the interior temperature detection unit detects that the interior temperature is outside a set temperature range. The temperature normalization measure includes a measure to automatically open the windows and a measure to adjust the temperature by an air conditioner 46. If the interior temperature remains outside the set temperature range even after the measure to automatically open the windows is executed, the control unit 21 controls the air conditioner 46 to execute a measure to adjust the temperature. If the interior temperature remains outside the set temperature range even after the measure to automatically open the windows is executed, the control unit 21 executes a measure to adjust the temperature by the air conditioner 46. Since the temperature inside the vehicle remains outside the set temperature range even after the measure to automatically open the windows is executed, the control unit 21 can prevent the interior temperature from remaining high or low, thereby protecting occupants, particularly children, left inside the vehicle. [Example]

[0010] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS A vehicle occupant protection device according to the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of a vehicle occupant protection device 10. As shown in FIG. The vehicle occupant protection device 10 is mounted on a vehicle that an occupant can ride in. The vehicle on which the vehicle occupant protection device 10 is mounted is equipped with devices that are equipped in vehicles such as general automobiles, and illustrations and descriptions of these devices will be omitted as appropriate.

[0011] The vehicle occupant protection device 10 according to the embodiment includes a controller 20, various input devices 30, and various output devices 40. The controller 20 controls the entire vehicle occupant protection device 10. The controller 20 may also function as a control device that controls the vehicle, or may be a device different from the control device that controls the vehicle. Furthermore, the controller 20 may be configured, for example, by one ECU (Electronic Control Unit), or by multiple ECUs working together.

[0012] The controller 20 has a control unit 21. The control unit 21 controls various output devices 40 based on information input from various input devices 30, thereby executing various processes to protect occupants left behind in the vehicle. Note that each process executed by the control unit 21 is realized by the control unit 21 executing a program stored in the controller 20.

[0013] The vehicle occupant protection device 10 also has, as input devices 30, an occupant detection sensor 31, an in-vehicle camera 32, a vehicle speed sensor 33, a window opening / closing sensor 34, a door opening / closing sensor 35, a rainfall sensor 36, an in-vehicle temperature sensor 37, an outside-vehicle temperature sensor 38, etc.

[0014] The occupant detection sensor 31 is a sensor that detects an occupant inside the vehicle. The occupant detection sensor 31 is built into the seat and detects an occupant inside the vehicle based on the pressure when the occupant sits on the seat. For example, a pressure sensor is used as the occupant detection sensor 31. Information on the occupant detected inside the vehicle by the occupant detection sensor 31 is input to the controller 20. The occupant detection sensor 31 functions as an occupant detection means.

[0015] The in-vehicle camera 32 is a camera that detects occupants inside the vehicle. The in-vehicle camera 32 is installed so that it can capture images of the entire interior of the vehicle, and detects occupants inside the vehicle based on the captured images. For example, an infrared camera is used as the in-vehicle camera 32. Information on occupants detected inside the vehicle by the in-vehicle camera 32 is input to the controller 20. The in-vehicle camera 32 functions as occupant detection means.

[0016] The vehicle speed sensor 33 is a sensor that detects the speed of the vehicle. For example, a pulse sensor is used as the vehicle speed sensor 33. Information detected by the vehicle speed sensor 33 is input to the controller 20. Note that, when the vehicle speed detected by the vehicle speed sensor 33 is 0, the controller 20 can determine that the vehicle is stopped. The vehicle speed sensor 33 functions as a vehicle speed detection means.

[0017] The window open / close sensors 34 are sensors that detect the open / close states of the windows (all windows). For example, limit switches are used as the window open / close sensors 34. Information detected by the window open / close sensors 34 is input to the controller 20. The door open / close sensor 35 is a sensor that detects the open / close state of the door (all doors). For example, a limit switch is used as the door open / close sensor 35. Information detected by the door open / close sensor 35 is input to the controller 20.

[0018] The rain sensor 36 is a sensor that detects the rainfall conditions outside the vehicle. The rain sensor 36 is, for example, a sensor that includes a light-emitting element that emits infrared light toward the windshield and a light-receiving element that receives the infrared light reflected by the windshield. The rain sensor 36 can detect the rainfall conditions outside the vehicle by detecting changes in the amount of reflected infrared light depending on the amount of water droplets adhering to the windshield. Information detected by the rain sensor 36 is input to the controller 20.

[0019] The interior temperature sensor 37 is a sensor that detects the temperature inside the vehicle. For example, a thermistor is used as the interior temperature sensor 37. Information detected by the interior temperature sensor 37 is input to the controller 20. The outside-vehicle temperature sensor 38 is a sensor that detects the temperature outside the vehicle. For example, a thermistor is used as the outside-vehicle temperature sensor 38. Information detected by the outside-vehicle temperature sensor 38 is input to the controller 20.

[0020] The vehicle occupant protection device 10 also has output devices 40 such as a communication transceiver 41, an in-vehicle speaker 42, an in-vehicle display 43, an outside speaker 44, an outside display 45, an air conditioner 46, a window breaking actuator 50, and the like.

[0021] The communication transceiver 41 is a device used when communicating with the outside via a public line network (4G line, 5G line), etc. In response to instructions from the control unit 21, the communication transceiver 41 communicates with a mobile terminal such as a mobile phone of a user outside the vehicle, makes an emergency call to a police agency, or makes an emergency call to an ambulance agency.

[0022] The interior speaker 42 is a device for notifying passengers in the vehicle by sound. The interior speaker 42 generates sound or voice in response to an instruction from the control unit 21. The in-vehicle display 43 is a device for displaying information to passengers in the vehicle. The in-vehicle display 43 displays messages and images in response to instructions from the control unit 21. The in-vehicle display 43 may be a meter panel or a display for a car navigation system.

[0023] The exterior speaker 44 is a device for notifying people outside the vehicle by sound. The exterior speaker 44 generates sound or voice in response to an instruction from the control unit 21. The exterior display 45 is a device for notifying people outside the vehicle by displaying information. The exterior display 45 displays messages and images in response to instructions from the control unit 21.

[0024] The air conditioner 46 is a device that adjusts the temperature inside the vehicle. The air conditioner 46 adjusts the temperature in response to instructions from the control unit 21. Specifically, the air conditioner 46 has an automatic air conditioning function and adjusts the temperature to a set temperature. The air conditioner 46 also has a function of taking in outside air and adjusts the temperature by taking in outside air.

[0025] The window breaking actuator 50 is a device for connecting the inside and outside of the vehicle by mechanically breaking a window (window glass) of the vehicle. In response to an instruction from the control unit 21, the window breaking actuator 50 breaks the window to form a hole in the window that passes through the inside and outside of the vehicle.

[0026] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the fenestration actuator 50a. FIG. 2(a) is a diagram showing the state before the fenestration actuator 50a is driven. The window breaking actuator 50a has a motor 51 as a drive unit and a hammer 52 as an impact unit. The window breaking actuator 50a is installed for each window 60 of the vehicle, and before being driven, is stored in the roof 61 close to the vehicle window 60. The window breaking actuator 50a is supplied with power from an on-board battery or a dedicated battery.

[0027] FIG. 2(b) is a diagram showing the state at the moment when the fenestration actuator 50a is driven. The window breaking actuator 50a is driven in response to an instruction from the control unit 21. That is, when the motor 51 rotates in response to an instruction from the control unit 21, the hammer 52 is projected from within the roof 61 toward the window 60. FIG. 2(c) is a diagram showing the state after the fenestration actuator 50a has been driven. When the motor 51 rotates and the hammer 52 hits the window 60, the window 60 is broken, allowing communication between the inside and outside of the vehicle. Hitting the hammer 52 against the window 60 from inside the vehicle prevents window fragments from scattering inside the vehicle. The window breaking actuator 50a stops in response to a command from the control unit 21. The in-vehicle camera 32 can also take images of the inside of the vehicle with the window 60 broken.

[0028] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of another fenestration actuator 50b. FIG. 3(a) is a diagram showing the state before the fenestration actuator 50b is driven. The window breaking actuator 50b has a solenoid coil 53 as a drive unit and an iron core 54 as an impact unit. The window breaking actuator 50b is installed for each window 60 of the vehicle, and before it is driven, the solenoid coil 53 is located on the outside of the window 60 of the vehicle, and the iron core 54 is located on the inside of the window 60. The window breaking actuator 50b is fixed to the window 60 via fixing means such as adhesive, bolts, or suction cups. The window breaking actuator 50b is supplied with power from an on-board battery or a dedicated battery.

[0029] FIG. 3(b) is a diagram showing the state at the moment when the fenestration actuator 50b is driven. The window breaking actuator 50b is driven in response to an instruction from the control unit 21. That is, the iron core 54 is pulled toward the window 60 with great force by a magnetic field generated by energizing the solenoid coil 53 in response to an instruction from the control unit 21. FIG. 3(c) is a diagram showing the state after the fenestration actuator 50b has been driven. The iron core 54, attracted by the solenoid coil 53, collides with the window 60, thereby breaking the window 60 and connecting the interior and exterior of the vehicle. By causing the iron core 54 to collide with the window 60 from inside the vehicle, window fragments are prevented from scattering inside the vehicle. The window breaking actuator 50b stops in response to a command from the control unit 21. The in-vehicle camera 32 can also capture images of the interior of the vehicle with the window 60 broken.

[0030] Next, the process by which the control unit 21 of the controller 20 protects an occupant left behind in the vehicle in the vehicle occupant protection device 10 configured as described above will be described with reference to the flowcharts of Figures 4 to 6. The flowcharts of Figures 4 to 6 are implemented by the control unit 21 executing a program stored in the controller 20.

[0031] First, the flowchart in FIG. 4 will be explained. In S10, the control unit 21 determines whether the controller 20 is in a stopped state (including a sleep state). Here, the stopped state of the controller 20 refers to a state in which the controller 20 is not controlling the power unit of the vehicle. If the controller 20 is in a stopped state, the process proceeds to S11, and if the controller 20 is not in a stopped state, the process waits until the controller 20 is in a stopped state.

[0032] In S11, the control unit 21 detects occupants in the vehicle and detects the vehicle speed. Specifically, the control unit 21 detects occupants in the vehicle based on information input from the occupant detection sensor 31 and the in-vehicle camera 32. The control unit 21 also detects the vehicle speed based on information input from the vehicle speed sensor 33.

[0033] In S12, the control unit 21 determines whether one or more occupants are present in the vehicle and whether the vehicle is stopped (vehicle speed is 0). Specifically, the control unit 21 makes the determination in S12 after a predetermined time t1 has elapsed since executing S11. If it is determined that the conditions of S12 are met, the control unit 21 proceeds to S13. On the other hand, if it is determined that the conditions of S12 are not met, the control unit 21 returns to S10 because there is little urgency in protecting the occupants in the vehicle at this time.

[0034] In S13, the control unit 21 detects the open / closed states of the windows (all windows), the open / closed states of the doors (all doors), the rainfall state outside the vehicle, the inside-vehicle temperature Ti, and the outside-vehicle temperature To. Specifically, the control unit 21 detects the open / closed states of the windows based on information input from the window open / close sensor 34. The control unit 21 also detects the open / closed states of the doors based on information input from the door open / close sensor 35. The control unit 21 also detects the rainfall state outside the vehicle based on information input from the rainfall sensor 36. The control unit 21 also detects the inside-vehicle temperature Ti based on information input from the inside-vehicle temperature sensor 37. The control unit 21 also detects the outside-vehicle temperature To based on information input from the outside-vehicle temperature sensor 38. After executing S13, the process proceeds to the door opening / closing process of S14 to S23.

[0035] In S14, the control unit 21 determines whether the in-vehicle temperature Ti is outside the set temperature range (Ti < Ta or Ti > Tb, where Ta < Tb). Here, the set temperature range is a comfortable temperature that is not too high or too low for the occupants and is stored in the controller 20 in advance. Specifically, the control unit 21 makes the determination in S14 after a predetermined time t2 has elapsed since S13 was executed. If it is determined that the conditions of S14 are met, the process proceeds to S15. On the other hand, if it is determined that the conditions of S14 are not met, since the urgency to protect the occupants in the vehicle at the current time is low, the process returns to S10.

[0036] In S15, the control unit 21 notifies the vehicle owner or user that the temperature normalization measure by door opening and closing will be automatically executed. Specifically, the control unit 21 controls the communication transceiver 41 to send an email to a preset contact or make a call with an automatic voice to notify that the temperature normalization measure by door opening and closing will be executed.

[0037] In S16, the control unit 21 determines whether the in-vehicle temperature Ti is outside the set temperature range (Ti < Ta or Ti > Tb, where Ta < Tb). Specifically, the control unit 21 makes the determination in S16 after a predetermined time t3 has elapsed since S15 was executed. If it is determined that the conditions of S16 are met, the process proceeds to S17'. On the other hand, if it is determined that the conditions of S16 are not met, since the urgency to protect the occupants in the vehicle at the current time is low, the process returns to S10.

[0038] In S17, the control unit 21 warns and displays inside and outside the vehicle that the temperature normalization measure by door opening and closing will be automatically executed. Specifically, the control unit 21 warns and displays on the in-vehicle display 43 and the outside-vehicle display 45 that the temperature normalization measure by door opening and closing will be executed.

[0039] In S18, the control unit 21 determines whether the in-vehicle temperature Ti is outside the set temperature range (Ti < Ta or Ti > Tb, where Ta < Tb). Specifically, the control unit 21 makes the determination in S18 after a predetermined time t4 has elapsed since S17 was executed. If it is determined that the conditions of S18 are satisfied, the process proceeds to S19. On the other hand, if it is determined that the conditions of S18 are not satisfied, since the urgency to protect the passengers in the vehicle at the current time is low, the process returns to S10.

[0040] In S19, the control unit 21 outputs, by warning sound or warning voice, to the inside and outside of the vehicle that it will automatically execute the temperature normalization measure by opening and closing the doors. Specifically, the control unit 21 uses the in-vehicle speaker 42 and the outside-vehicle speaker 44 to output, by warning sound or warning voice, that it will execute the temperature normalization measure by opening and closing the doors. After the execution of S19, the process proceeds to S20 and S22.

[0041] In S20, the control unit 21 determines whether it is not in the rainfall state and the in-vehicle temperature Ti is outside the set temperature range and the outside-vehicle temperature To is a temperature that brings the in-vehicle temperature Ti closer to the normalization temperature (Ti < Ta and Ti < To, or Ti > Tb and Ti > To). Specifically, the control unit 21 makes the determination in S20 after a predetermined time t5 has elapsed since S19 was executed. If it is determined that the conditions of S20 are satisfied, the process proceeds to S21. On the other hand, if it is determined that the conditions of S20 are not satisfied, the process returns to S10. Note that, if it is determined that the conditions of S20 are not satisfied, the process may proceed to S22.

[0042] In S21, as a temperature normalization measure, the control unit 21 unlocks the door locks for all the doors of the vehicle and then opens the doors. Here, since the outside-vehicle temperature To is a temperature that brings the in-vehicle temperature Ti closer to the normalization temperature, by opening the doors, the in-vehicle temperature Ti can be transitioned to approach the normalization temperature (within the set temperature range). Note that, since it is not in the rainfall state even after the doors are opened, rain does not flood into the vehicle. After the execution of S21, the process proceeds to S24 in the flowchart of FIG. 5. Note that, after the execution of S21, the process may proceed to S44 (or S46) in the flowchart of FIG. 6.

[0043] On the other hand, in S22, regardless of the rainfall state, the control unit 21 determines whether the in-vehicle temperature Ti is outside the set temperature range and the outside temperature To is a temperature that moves the in-vehicle temperature Ti away from the normalization temperature (Ti < Ta and Ti ≥ To, or Ti > Tb and Ti ≤ To). Specifically, the control unit 21 makes the determination in S22 after a predetermined time t6 has elapsed since S19 was executed. If it is determined that the conditions of S22 are satisfied, the process proceeds to S23. On the other hand, if it is determined that the conditions of S22 are not satisfied, the process returns to S10.

[0044] In S23, the control unit 21 closes all the doors of the vehicle. Here, since the outside temperature To is a temperature that moves the in-vehicle temperature Ti away from the normalization temperature, if the doors are left open, the in-vehicle temperature Ti will transition away from the normalization temperature. Therefore, all the doors are closed so that the in-vehicle temperature Ti does not move further away from the normalization temperature than it is currently. After the execution of S23, the process proceeds to S24 in the flowchart of FIG. 5. Note that, after the execution of S23, the process may proceed to S46 (or S44) in the flowchart of FIG. 6.

[0045] Next, the window opening / closing process from S24 to S33 in the flowchart of FIG. 5 will be described. In S24, the control unit 21 determines whether the in-vehicle temperature Ti is outside the set temperature range (Ti < Ta or Ti > Tb, where Ta < Tb). Specifically, the control unit 21 makes the determination in S24 after a predetermined time t7 has elapsed since S13 was executed. Here, the predetermined time t7 is set so that S24 is executed after S21 or S23 has been executed. If it is determined that the conditions of S24 are satisfied, the process proceeds to S25. On the other hand, if it is determined that the conditions of S24 are not satisfied, since the urgency to protect the passengers in the vehicle at the current time is low, the process returns to S10.

[0046] In S25, the control unit 21 notifies the vehicle owner or user that the temperature normalization measure by window opening / closing is automatically executed. Specifically, the control unit 21 controls the communication transceiver 41 to send an email to a preset contact or make a call with an automatic voice to notify that the temperature normalization measure by window opening / closing is executed.

[0047] In S26, the control unit 21 determines whether the in-vehicle temperature Ti is outside the set temperature range (Ti < Ta or Ti > Tb, where Ta < Tb). Specifically, the control unit 21 makes the determination in S26 after a predetermined time t8 has elapsed since S25 is executed. If it is determined that the condition of S26 is satisfied, the process proceeds to S27. On the other hand, if it is determined that the condition of S26 is not satisfied, since the urgency to protect the passengers in the vehicle at the current time is low, the process returns to S10.

[0048] In S27, the control unit 21 warns and displays inside and outside the vehicle that the temperature normalization measure by window opening / closing is automatically executed. Specifically, the control unit 21 warns and displays on the in-vehicle display 43 and the out-vehicle display 45 that the temperature normalization measure by window opening / closing is executed.

[0049] In S28, the control unit 21 determines whether the in-vehicle temperature Ti is outside the set temperature range (Ti < Ta or Ti > Tb, where Ta < Tb). Specifically, the control unit 21 makes the determination in S28 after a predetermined time t9 has elapsed since S27 is executed. If it is determined that the condition of S28 is satisfied, the process proceeds to S29. On the other hand, if it is determined that the condition of S28 is not satisfied, since the urgency to protect the passengers in the vehicle at the current time is low, the process returns to S10.

[0050] In S29, the control unit 21 outputs, inside and outside the vehicle, a warning sound or a warning voice to notify that the temperature normalization measure by window opening / closing is automatically executed. Specifically, the control unit 21 uses the in-vehicle speaker 42 and the out-vehicle speaker 44 to output a warning sound or a warning voice to notify that the temperature normalization measure by window opening / closing is executed. After the execution of S29, the process proceeds to S30 and S32.

[0051] In S30, the control unit 21 determines whether the vehicle is not raining, the vehicle interior temperature Ti is outside the set temperature range, and the vehicle exterior temperature To is a temperature (Ti <TaかつTi<To、あるいは、Ti> It is determined whether Tb and Ti>To. Specifically, the control unit 21 performs the determination in S30 after a predetermined time t10 has elapsed since executing S29. If it is determined that the condition in S30 is met, the control unit 21 proceeds to S31. On the other hand, if it is determined that the condition in S30 is not met, the control unit 21 returns to S10. Note that it may also be configured to proceed to S32 if it is determined that the condition in S30 is not met.

[0052] In S31, the control unit 21 unlocks all vehicle windows and then opens them as a temperature normalization measure. Here, the outside vehicle temperature To is a temperature that brings the inside vehicle temperature Ti closer to the normalization temperature, so by opening the windows, the inside vehicle temperature Ti can be transitioned toward the normalization temperature (within the set temperature range). Note that even if the windows are opened, rain will not seep into the vehicle because it is not raining. After S31 is executed, the process proceeds to S34. After S31 is executed, the process may proceed to S44 (or S46) in the flowchart of FIG.

[0053] On the other hand, in S32, regardless of the rainfall state, the control unit 21 determines whether the inside temperature Ti is outside the set temperature range and whether the outside temperature To is a temperature (Ti<TaかつTi≧To、あるいは、Ti> Tb and Ti≦To). Specifically, the control unit 21 performs the determination in S32 after a predetermined time t11 has elapsed since executing S29. If it is determined that the condition in S32 is met, the process proceeds to S33. On the other hand, if it is determined that the condition in S32 is not met, the process returns to S10.

[0054] In S33, the control unit 21 closes all doors of the vehicle. Here, since the outside temperature To is a temperature that moves the inside temperature Ti away from the normalization temperature, leaving the windows open will cause the inside temperature Ti to transition away from the normalization temperature. Therefore, all windows are closed so that the inside temperature Ti does not move away from the normalization temperature any more than it currently is. After the execution of S33, proceed to S34. Note that after the execution of S33, it may proceed to S46 (or S44) in the flowchart of FIG. 6.

[0055] Next, the temperature adjustment process by the air conditioner in S34 to S43 will be described. In S34, the control unit 21 determines whether the vehicle interior temperature Ti is outside the set temperature range (Ti < Ta or Ti > Tb, where Ta < Tb). Specifically, the control unit 21 makes the determination in S34 after a predetermined time t12 has elapsed since the execution of S13. Here, the predetermined time t12 is set such that S34 is executed after the execution of S31 or S33. If it is determined that the condition of S34 is satisfied, proceed to S35. On the other hand, if it is determined that the condition of S34 is not satisfied, since the urgency to protect the passengers in the vehicle at the current time is low, return to S10.

[0056] In S35, the control unit 21 notifies the vehicle owner or user that the temperature normalization measure by the air conditioner 46 will be automatically executed. Specifically, the control unit 21 controls the communication transceiver 41 to send an email to a preset contact or make a call with an automatic voice to notify that the temperature normalization measure by the air conditioner 46 will be executed.

[0057] In S36, the control unit 21 determines whether the vehicle interior temperature Ti is outside the set temperature range (Ti < Ta or Ti > Tb, where Ta < Tb). Specifically, the control unit 21 makes the determination in S36 after a predetermined time t13 has elapsed since the execution of S35. If it is determined that the condition of S36 is satisfied, proceed to S37. On the other hand, if it is determined that the condition of S36 is not satisfied, since the urgency to protect the passengers in the vehicle at the current time is low, return to S10.

[0058] In S37, the control unit 21 warns and displays inside and outside the vehicle that the temperature normalization measure by the air conditioner 46 will be automatically executed. Specifically, the control unit 21 warns and displays on the in-vehicle display 43 and the out-vehicle display 45 that the temperature normalization measure by the air conditioner 46 will be executed.

[0059] In S38, the control unit 21 determines whether the in-vehicle temperature Ti is outside the set temperature range (Ti < Ta or Ti > Tb, where Ta < Tb). Specifically, the control unit 21 makes the determination in S38 after a predetermined time t14 has elapsed since S37 was executed. If it is determined that the conditions of S38 are satisfied, the process proceeds to S39. On the other hand, if it is determined that the conditions of S38 are not satisfied, since the urgency to protect the passengers in the vehicle at the current time is low, the process returns to S10.

[0060] In S39, the control unit 21 outputs a warning sound or warning voice inside and outside the vehicle to indicate that it will automatically execute the temperature normalization measure by the air conditioner 46. Specifically, the control unit 21 uses the in-vehicle speaker 42 and the outside-vehicle speaker 44 to output a warning sound or warning voice indicating that the temperature normalization measure by the air conditioner 46 will be executed. After the execution of S39, the process proceeds to S40 and S42.

[0061] In S40, the control unit 21 determines whether the auto air conditioner function of the air conditioner 46 is not malfunctioning and whether the in-vehicle temperature Ti is outside the set temperature range. Specifically, the control unit 21 makes the determination in S40 after a predetermined time t15 has elapsed since S39 was executed. If it is determined that the conditions of S40 are satisfied, the process proceeds to S41. On the other hand, if it is determined that the conditions of S40 are not satisfied, the process returns to S10. Note that when it is determined that the conditions of S40 are not satisfied, the process may proceed to S42.

[0062] In S41, the control unit 21 performs temperature adjustment by the air conditioner 46 as a temperature normalization measure. Specifically, by using the auto air conditioner function of the air conditioner 46, the control unit 21 can cause the in-vehicle temperature Ti to transition towards the normal temperature (within the set temperature range). After the execution of S41, the process proceeds to S46 (or S44).

[0063] On the other hand, in S42, the control unit 21 determines whether the auto air conditioner function of the air conditioner 46 has failed and the vehicle interior temperature Ti is outside the set temperature range and the outside air temperature To is a temperature that brings the vehicle interior temperature Ti closer to the normalization temperature (Ti < Ta and Ti < To, or Ti > Tb and Ti > To). Specifically, the control unit 21 makes the determination in S42 after a predetermined time t16 has elapsed since S39 was executed. If it is determined that the conditions of S42 are satisfied, the process proceeds to S43. On the other hand, if it is determined that the conditions of S42 are not satisfied, the process returns to S10. Among the cases where it is determined that the conditions of S42 are not satisfied, if the auto air conditioner function of the air conditioner 46 has failed and the vehicle interior temperature Ti is outside the set temperature range and the outside air temperature To is a temperature that moves the vehicle interior temperature Ti away from the normalization temperature, the process proceeds to S46 (or S44).

[0064] In S43, the control unit 21 performs temperature adjustment by the air conditioner 46 as a temperature normalization measure. Specifically, by using the function of the air conditioner 46 to take in outside air to perform temperature adjustment, the control unit 21 can cause the vehicle interior temperature Ti to transition toward the normalization temperature (within the set temperature range). After the execution of S43, the process proceeds to S44.

[0065] Next, the processing after S44 in the flowchart of FIG. 6 will be described. In S44, the control unit 21 determines whether the vehicle interior temperature Ti remains outside the set temperature range (Ti < Ta or Ti > Tb, where Ta < Tb). The control unit 21 makes the determination in S44 after a predetermined time t17 has elapsed since S43 was executed. If it is determined that the conditions of S44 are satisfied, the process proceeds to S45. On the other hand, if it is determined that the conditions of S44 are not satisfied, since the urgency to protect the passengers in the vehicle at the current time is low, the process returns to S10. Note that in S44, instead of (or in addition to) determining whether the in-vehicle temperature Ti remains outside the set temperature range (Ti < Ta or Ti > Tb, where Ta < Tb), it may be determined whether all or some of the temperature normalization measures, i.e., the door opening in S21, the window opening in S31, and the temperature adjustment by the air conditioner in S43, cannot be executed. If all or some of the temperature normalization measures cannot be executed, the process proceeds to S45; otherwise, the process can return to S10.

[0066] In S45, the control unit 21 breaks the window of the vehicle by driving the window-breaking actuator 50 as a temperature normalization measure. At this time, the control unit 21 controls the window-breaking actuator 50 to break the window farthest from the occupant (e.g., the window farthest from the occupant) based on the information input from the occupant detection sensor 31 or the in-vehicle camera 32. By breaking the window, the inside of the vehicle and the outside are in communication, and outside air can be taken in, so that the in-vehicle temperature Ti can be transitioned toward the normal temperature (within the set temperature range). Note that the control unit 21 determines whether the window has been broken based on the image input from the in-vehicle camera 32, and if the window cannot be broken, controls the window-breaking actuator 50 to break the next window farthest from the occupant.

[0067] In S46, the control unit 21 determines whether the in-vehicle temperature Ti remains outside the set temperature range (Ti < Ta or Ti > Tb, where Ta < Tb). The control unit 21 makes the determination in S46 after a predetermined time t18 has elapsed since S45 was executed. If it is determined that the condition of S46 is satisfied, the process proceeds to S47. On the other hand, if it is determined that the condition of S46 is not satisfied, since the urgency to protect the occupants in the vehicle at the current time is low, the process returns to S10.

[0068] In S47, the control unit 21 makes an emergency call to the police and emergency services. Specifically, the control unit 21 makes an emergency call to the pre-set contact points for the police and emergency services by controlling the communication transceiver 41. At this time, the control unit 21 also transmits location information of the vehicle, so that the police and emergency services can respond to the transmitted location information and protect the occupants in the vehicle. Execution of S47 ends the flowcharts of Figures 4 to 6. The control unit 21 executes the flowcharts of Figures 4 to 6 at predetermined time intervals.

[0069] As described above, in this embodiment, the control unit 21 executes a temperature normalization measure to bring the interior temperature within the set temperature range when the vehicle speed sensor 33 determines that the vehicle is stopped, the occupant detection sensor 31 or the interior camera 32 detects an occupant inside the vehicle, and the interior temperature sensor 37 detects that the interior temperature is outside the set temperature range. Specifically, the control unit 21 executes a temperature normalization measure by the air conditioner 46 if the interior temperature remains outside the set temperature range even after the window is automatically opened. In this way, the air conditioner 46 executes a temperature normalization measure when the interior temperature remains outside the set temperature range even after the window is automatically opened. This prevents the interior temperature from remaining high or low, thereby protecting occupants, particularly children, left behind in the vehicle. Furthermore, the air conditioner 46 executes a temperature normalization measure when the interior temperature remains outside the set temperature range even after the window is automatically opened. This not only regulates the interior temperature by opening the window, but also facilitates air circulation inside the vehicle.

[0070] In addition, in this embodiment, the control unit 21 automatically opens the windows if the temperature inside the vehicle remains outside the set temperature range even after the door is automatically opened, thereby making it easier for occupants left inside the vehicle to escape.

[0071] Furthermore, in this embodiment, if the vehicle interior temperature remains outside the set temperature range even after the temperature normalization measure has been taken, the control unit 21 creates a hole that penetrates between the vehicle interior and the outside by breaking a window located away from the occupant using the window breaking actuator 50. This prevents the vehicle interior temperature from remaining too high or too low, thereby protecting occupants left inside the vehicle.

[0072] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and modifications and the like are possible within the scope of the present invention. In the above-described embodiment, the temperature normalization measures are described as firstly opening a door, secondly opening a window, and thirdly adjusting the temperature by the air conditioner 46, but are not limited to this. The temperature normalization measures may be, for example, any one or any two of the three temperature normalization measures, or may include other temperature normalization measures. In the above-described embodiment, the case where the inside temperature and outside temperature are compared with the set temperature is described, but this is not limited to this case, and the inside temperature and outside temperature may also be compared with a corrected temperature obtained by correcting the set temperature. [Explanation of symbols]

[0073] 10: Vehicle occupant protection device 20: Controller 31: Occupant detection sensor 32: In-vehicle camera 33: Vehicle speed sensor 34: Window opening / closing sensor 35: Door opening / closing sensor 36: Rainfall sensor 37: In-vehicle temperature sensor 38: Outside-vehicle temperature sensor 41: Communication transceiver 42: In-vehicle speaker 43: In-vehicle display 44: Outside-vehicle speaker 45: Outside-vehicle display 46: Air conditioner 50 (50a, 50b): Window breaking actuator 60: Window

Claims

1. A vehicle occupant protection device for protecting an occupant in a vehicle, an occupant detection means for detecting an occupant in the vehicle; a vehicle speed detection means for detecting a vehicle speed; an interior temperature detecting means for detecting an interior temperature of the vehicle; a control unit that executes a temperature normalization measure to bring the interior temperature of the vehicle into a set temperature range when the vehicle speed detection means determines that the vehicle is stopped, the occupant detection means detects an occupant inside the vehicle, and the interior temperature detection means detects that the interior temperature of the vehicle is outside a set temperature range, The temperature normalization measures include: The system includes a measure to automatically open windows and a measure to adjust the temperature by an air conditioner, The control unit A vehicle occupant protection device characterized by controlling the air conditioning device to perform temperature adjustment measures if the interior temperature of the vehicle remains outside the set temperature range even after the measure to automatically open the window is executed.

2. The temperature normalization measures include: including measures for automatically opening vehicle doors, The control unit 2. The vehicle occupant protection device according to claim 1, wherein the vehicle is controlled so that the window is automatically opened if the interior temperature remains outside the set temperature range even after the door is automatically opened.

3. The control unit 3. A vehicle occupant protection device according to claim 2, further comprising: a control means for controlling an actuator to form a hole in the window located away from the occupant, the hole penetrating the outside and the inside of the vehicle, when the interior temperature of the vehicle remains outside the set temperature range even after the temperature normalization measure is performed.

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