Display device for vehicle, vehicle, display processing method and program

Abstract

To provide a display device for a vehicle, a vehicle, a display processing method and a program in which an occupant can certainly grasp update of display.SOLUTION: A display device for a vehicle comprises: a display part 24, 26 which is arranged in a cabin and has a display area 24A, 26A capable of displaying an image; and a controller which shows a plurality of plans P1 - P3 to be executed in the vehicle on the display area 24A, 26A in order of execution, and removes, when a prescribed condition is satisfied for a top plan P1 that is going to be executed at first among the plurality of plans, the top plan P1 from the display area 24A, 26A by fade-out processing.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a vehicle display device, a vehicle, a display processing method, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a vehicle display device that displays on a display or head-up display (hereinafter referred to as "HUD") driving support actions (such as lane changes, lane merging, and lane branching) along a route that guides the vehicle to a destination. This display device displays multiple support actions in layers from bottom to top, starting with the closest operation position (distance), and the bottommost support action that has been completed is deleted, and a new support action is added and displayed at the top. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Patent Publication No. 2021-088222 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, with the display device described in Patent Document 1, when the same assistance action (for example, changing lanes to the right) is performed repeatedly, the occupant may not easily notice that the display has been updated. In other words, there is room for improvement in terms of ensuring that the occupant is aware that the display has been updated.

[0005] In consideration of the above, an object of the present invention is to provide a vehicle display device, a vehicle, a display processing method, and a program that allow a passenger to reliably know that the display has been updated. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A vehicle display device according to a first aspect includes a display unit provided in the vehicle cabin and having a display area capable of displaying images, and a control unit that displays a plurality of plans to be implemented in the vehicle in the display area in the order in which they are scheduled to be implemented, and that erases the top plan from the display area by fading out the top plan when a predetermined condition is met for the top plan, which is the plan that is scheduled to be implemented first among the plurality of plans.

[0007] This vehicle display device is provided with a display unit within the vehicle cabin. A control unit displays, in a display area of ​​the display unit, multiple plans to be implemented in the vehicle, arranged in the order in which they are to be implemented. When a predetermined condition is met for a top plan, which is the first plan to be implemented among the multiple plans displayed in the display area of ​​the display unit, the control unit erases the top plan from the display area by a fade-out process. This allows the occupants to clearly understand that the predetermined condition has been met for the top plan.

[0008] In particular, when the same (type of) plans are displayed consecutively in the display area, if the top plan is simply erased and the display is updated to include a new plan, there is a risk that the occupants will not notice that the display of the plans on the display unit has been updated. However, because the plans are erased by a fade-out process, the occupants can be sure to understand that the display of the plans in the display area has been updated.

[0009] The "fade-out process" includes both an image display process in which the display density of the plan is gradually reduced and the plan is erased while maintaining the position of the plan displayed in the display area (without moving the plan), and an image display process in which the plan is moved within the display area and then erased.

[0010] The second aspect of the vehicle display device is the vehicle display device of the first aspect, in which, when the control unit erases the top plan, it moves the plan that was displayed in the display area together with the top plan toward the position within the display area where the top plan was displayed.

[0011] In this vehicle display device, when the top plan is erased from the display area of ​​the display unit, where multiple plans are displayed in the order in which they are scheduled to be implemented, the plans that were displayed together with the top plan in the display area are moved to the position in the display area where the top plan was displayed, allowing the occupants to clearly understand the updated plan display and the next plan that is scheduled to be implemented.

[0012] A vehicle display device according to a third aspect is the vehicle display device according to the first or second aspect, wherein the control unit adds an additional plan, which is a plan different from the plurality of plans, to the display area and displays it.

[0013] In this vehicle display device, the control unit erases the top plan in the display area of ​​the display unit and displays an additional plan that is different from the multiple plans that were displayed in the display area. That is, of the multiple plans that were displayed in the display area, the top plan is erased and an additional plan that is different from the multiple plans that were displayed is added to the display area. This allows the occupant to always grasp a certain number of multiple plans that are scheduled to be implemented by visually checking the display area of ​​the display device.

[0014] A fourth aspect of the vehicle display device is a vehicle display device according to any one of the first to third aspects, wherein the control unit displays an image of the road on which the vehicle is traveling at a position in the display area different from the plurality of plans, and when a predetermined condition is met for the top plan, the control unit moves the top plan onto the road image within the display area and then erases it.

[0015] In this vehicle display device, when a predetermined condition for the top plan is met, the control unit moves the top plan onto an image of the road on which the vehicle is traveling, which is displayed in a different position from the multiple plans in the display area, and then erases it.

[0016] This allows the top plan to be moved onto the road image in the display area of ​​the display device where the occupants' gaze is likely to be drawn, and then erased, so that the occupants can more reliably understand that the top plan has been erased (the plan display in the specific display area has been updated).

[0017] A vehicle display device according to a fifth aspect is the vehicle display device according to any one of the first to fourth aspects, wherein when the operation of the top plan is started, the predetermined condition of the top plan is met.

[0018] In this vehicle display device, when the operation of the top plan is started in the vehicle, the control unit determines that a predetermined condition for the top plan is met and erases the top plan by fade-out processing.

[0019] This allows the passenger to be sure that the operation of the top plan has begun.

[0020] A vehicle display device according to a sixth aspect includes a display unit provided within the vehicle cabin and having a display area capable of displaying images, and displays in the display area a number of plans to be implemented in the vehicle in the order in which they are scheduled to be implemented. The last plan, which is the last of the number of plans to be implemented, is erased in the display area by a fade-out process, and then an additional plan, which is a plan different from the number of plans, is inserted between the number of plans and displayed in the order in which they are scheduled to be implemented.

[0021] In this vehicle display device, the control unit erases the last plan (last plan) among the multiple plans displayed in the display area by fade-out processing, and then inserts a plan (additional plan) different from the multiple plans between the multiple plans displayed in the display area and displays them in the order of scheduled implementation. For example, even if an additional plan is generated later, the additional plan can be inserted between the multiple plans displayed in the display area, and the multiple plans can be displayed in the display area in the order of scheduled implementation.

[0022] "Insertion between a plurality of plans" includes insertion at the extreme end of a plurality of plans displayed in the display area.

[0023] A seventh aspect of the vehicle display device is the vehicle display device according to the third or sixth aspect, wherein when the control unit displays the additional plan in the display area, the control unit displays the additional plan in the display area by a fade-in process.

[0024] In this vehicle display device, the top plan or last plan is erased from the multiple plans that had been displayed in the display area of ​​the display unit, and a plan (additional plan) that is different from the multiple plans is displayed in the display area of ​​the display device using a fade-in process.

[0025] This allows the crew to clearly understand the additional plan and the position (scheduled execution order) at which the additional plan has been inserted.

[0026] The "fade-in process" includes both an image display process in which the density of the plan is gradually increased at the display position within the display area to display the plan, and an image display process in which the plan is moved from another position within the display area to the display position and displayed.

[0027] The vehicle display device according to an eighth aspect is the vehicle display device according to any one of the first to seventh aspects, wherein the control unit highlights the plan before erasing it from the display area.

[0028] In this vehicle display device, the control unit highlights the plan (top plan or last plan) before erasing it from the display area of ​​the display unit.

[0029] This allows the occupant to more reliably recognize that the top plan or the last plan will be erased (the display of the plan will be updated).

[0030] A ninth aspect of the present invention relates to the vehicle display device of any one of the first to eighth aspects, and the display unit is provided in front of the driver's seat on an instrument panel.

[0031] In this vehicle display device, the display unit is located on the instrument panel in front of the driver's seat, so that the occupant can check the plan in the order in which it is scheduled to be carried out without having to move their eyes significantly while driving.

[0032] A vehicle display device according to a tenth aspect is the vehicle display device according to any one of the first to eighth aspects, wherein the display unit is a projection surface onto which an image is projected by a head-up display device.

[0033] In this vehicle display device, the display unit is a projection screen projected by a head-up display device, and multiple plans are displayed on the projection screen above the vehicle in the order of their scheduled execution, allowing the driver to check multiple plans that are soon to be executed without moving their line of sight significantly.

[0034] A vehicle according to an eleventh aspect includes the vehicle display device according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

[0035] This vehicle is equipped with a vehicle display device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 10, making it easy to grasp the plans to be carried out in the vehicle and also enabling the driver to reliably grasp updates to the plan display on the vehicle display device.

[0036] A display processing method according to a twelfth aspect is a display processing method for displaying a plurality of plans to be implemented in a vehicle in the order in which they are scheduled to be implemented in a display area capable of displaying images on a display unit provided inside the vehicle cabin, and includes a step of erasing the top plan, which is the plan that is scheduled to be implemented first among the plurality of plans, in the display area by fading out the top plan when a predetermined condition is met.

[0037] This display processing method provides the same effects as the first aspect.

[0038] The program of the thirteenth aspect is a program that displays multiple plans to be implemented in a vehicle in the order in which they are scheduled to be implemented in a display area capable of displaying images on a display unit installed in the vehicle cabin, and causes a computer to perform processing that includes a step of erasing the top plan in the display area by fading out the top plan when a predetermined condition is met for the top plan, which is the plan that is scheduled to be implemented first among the multiple plans.

[0039] By running this program on a computer, the same effects as those of the first aspect can be achieved. [Effects of the Invention]

[0040] As described above, the vehicle display devices according to the first, second, fifth, seventh and eighth aspects allow the occupant to reliably know that the display of the plan has been updated.

[0041] According to the vehicle display device of the third and sixth aspects, a certain number of plans are always displayed on the display unit.

[0042] According to the vehicle display device of the fourth aspect, the occupant can reliably recognize the plan (driving assistance control) that is being implemented.

[0043] According to the vehicle display devices of the ninth and tenth aspects, a driver can check the displayed plans arranged in the order of scheduled implementation without moving his or her line of sight significantly.

[0044] According to the vehicle of the eleventh aspect, the occupant can reliably know that the display of the plan has been updated.

[0045] According to the display processing method of the twelfth aspect, the occupant can reliably know that the display of the plan has been updated.

[0046] According to the program of the thirteenth aspect, the occupant can reliably know that the display of the plan has been updated. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0047] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram of a front portion of a vehicle interior of a vehicle to which a vehicle display device according to an embodiment is applied, viewed from the rear side of the vehicle. [Figure 2] 1 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration of a vehicle display device according to an embodiment; [Figure 3] 1 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of a vehicle display device according to an embodiment; [Figure 4] FIG. 10(A) is a diagram showing an example of a display on the second display unit, and FIG. 10(B) is a diagram showing an example of a display on the first display unit. [Figure 5] (A) is a diagram showing an example of the display during the fade-out process on the second display unit when 100 m has passed from the state of Figure 4(A), and (B) is a diagram showing an example of the display during the fade-out process on the first display unit when 100 m has passed from the state of Figure 4(B). [Figure 6] (A) is a diagram showing an example of the display during the fade-in process on the second display unit when 100 m has passed from the state of Figure 4(A), and (B) is a diagram showing an example of the display during the fade-in process on the first display unit when 100 m has passed from the state of Figure 4(B). [Figure 7] (A) is a diagram showing an example of the display after update processing on the second display unit when the vehicle has traveled 100 m from the state shown in Figure 4(A), and (B) is a diagram showing an example of the display after update processing on the first display unit when the vehicle has traveled 100 m from the state shown in Figure 4(B). [Figure 8] 5 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of a display process in the first embodiment. [Figure 9] 5 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of a display process in the first embodiment. [Figure 10]In the first variation of the first embodiment, (A) is a diagram showing an example of a display during highlighting processing on the second display unit when 100 m has passed since the state of Figure 4(A), and (B) is a diagram showing an example of a display during highlighting processing on the first display unit when 100 m has passed since the state of Figure 4(B). [Figure 11] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of a display process in a vehicle display device according to a second variation of the first embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of a vehicle display device according to a second variation of the first embodiment. [Figure 13] (A) is a diagram showing an example of the display during the fade-out process of the second display unit in the state of Figure 4(A), and (B) is a diagram showing an example of the display during the fade-out process of the first display unit in the state of Figure 4(B). [Figure 14] (A) is a diagram showing an example of a display during the fade-in process of the second display unit in the state of Figure 4(A), and (B) is a diagram showing an example of a display during the fade-in process of the first display unit in the state of Figure 4(B). [Figure 15] (A) is a diagram showing an example of display after update processing on the second display unit in the state of Figure 4(A), and (B) is a diagram showing an example of display after update processing on the first display unit in the state of Figure 4(B). [Figure 16] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of a display process in the second embodiment. [Figure 17] (A) is a diagram showing an example of a display after movement processing of the second display unit when the vehicle has traveled 100 m from the state shown in Figure 4(A), and (B) is a diagram showing an example of a display after movement processing of the first display unit when the vehicle has traveled 100 m from the state shown in Figure 4(B). [Figure 18] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram of a fade-out process according to another example. [Figure 19] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram of a fade-in process according to another example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0048] [First embodiment]

[0049] A vehicle 12 to which a vehicle display device 10 according to a first embodiment is applied will be described with reference to the drawings. The vehicle 12 of this embodiment is configured to be switchable between automatic driving and manual driving, as an example. As shown in Fig. 1, an instrument panel 14 is provided at the front of the passenger compartment of the vehicle 12.

[0050] The instrument panel 14 extends in the vehicle width direction, and a steering wheel 16 is provided on the right side of the instrument panel 14. That is, in this embodiment, as an example, the vehicle is a right-hand drive vehicle in which the steering wheel 16 is provided on the right side, and the driver's seat is located on the right side of the vehicle.

[0051] A windshield glass 18 is provided at the front end of the instrument panel 14. The windshield glass 18 extends in the vertical direction and the width direction of the vehicle, and separates the interior of the vehicle from the exterior of the vehicle.

[0052] The right end of the windshield glass 18 is fixed to a front pillar 20 on the right side of the vehicle. The front pillar 20 extends in the vertical direction of the vehicle, and the windshield glass 18 is fixed to the inner end of the front pillar 20 in the vehicle width direction. In addition, the front ends of front side windows 22 are fixed to the outer end of the front pillar 20 in the vehicle width direction. The left end of the windshield glass 18 is fixed to a front pillar on the left side of the vehicle (not shown).

[0053] Here, a first display unit 24 is provided on the instrument panel 14. The first display unit 24 is provided on the instrument panel 14 in front of the driver's seat, and is provided at a position that is within the driver's field of view when the driver is looking forward.

[0054] A second display unit 26 is provided on the windshield glass 18. The second display unit 26 is set above the vehicle relative to the first display unit 24, and is configured by a projection surface onto which an image is projected by a head-up display device 44 (see FIG. 2). Specifically, the head-up display device 44 is provided further forward in the vehicle than the instrument panel 14, and an image is projected from this head-up display device 44 onto the second display unit 26 on the windshield glass 18.

[0055] (Hardware configuration of the vehicle display device 10)

[0056] The vehicle 12 is provided with an ECU (Electronic Control Unit) 28 as a control unit. Fig. 2 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the vehicle display device 10. As shown in Fig. 2, the ECU 28 of the vehicle display device 10 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit: Processor) 30, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 32, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 34, a storage 36, a communication interface 38, and an input / output interface 40. Each component is connected to each other via a bus 42 so as to be able to communicate with each other.

[0057] The CPU 30 is a central processing unit that executes various programs and controls each part. That is, the CPU 30 reads the programs from the ROM 32 or the storage 36 and executes the programs using the RAM 34 as a work area. The CPU 30 controls each of the above components and performs various arithmetic processing in accordance with the programs recorded in the ROM 32 or the storage 36.

[0058] The ROM 32 stores various programs and various data. The RAM 34 temporarily stores programs or data as a working area. The storage 36 is configured with an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or an SSD (Solid State Drive) and stores various programs including an operating system and various data. In this embodiment, the ROM 32 or the storage 36 stores programs for performing display processing, various data, and the like.

[0059] The communication interface 38 is an interface for the vehicle display device 10 to communicate with a server and other devices (not shown), and uses standards such as Ethernet (registered trademark), LTE, FDDI, and Wi-Fi (registered trademark).

[0060] A head-up display device 44 that projects images on the first display unit 24 and the second display unit 26, and an actuator 46 are connected to the input / output interface 40. The actuator 46 is configured to include a steering actuator, an accelerator actuator, and a brake actuator. The steering actuator steers the vehicle 12. The accelerator actuator accelerates the vehicle 12. The brake actuator controls the brakes to decelerate the vehicle 12. Sensors and a GPS device (not shown) for causing the vehicle 12 to travel automatically are also connected to the input / output interface 40.

[0061] (Functional configuration of the vehicle display device 10)

[0062] The above hardware resources are used to realize various functions of the vehicle display device 10. The functional configuration realized by the vehicle display device 10 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0063] 3, the vehicle display device 10 includes, as functional components, a communication unit 50, an operation plan setting unit 52, an automatic driving control unit 54, a first display instruction unit 56, a second display instruction unit 58, a highlighting unit 60, a first determination unit 62, and a second determination unit 64. Each functional component is realized by the CPU 30 reading and executing a program stored in the ROM 32 or the storage 36.

[0064] The communication unit 50 transmits and receives data to and from an external server and other devices via the communication interface 38. For example, the communication unit 50 transmits and receives map data stored in a server, traffic conditions, and other data. The communication unit 50 may also be configured to perform vehicle-to-vehicle communication with surrounding vehicles.

[0065] The operation plan setting unit 52 sets an operation plan for the vehicle 12. Specifically, the operation plan setting unit 52 sets an operation plan from the current location to the destination by inputting the destination by the occupant.

[0066] The automatic driving control unit 54 automatically drives the vehicle 12 in accordance with a set operation plan while taking into consideration the position information and environmental information around the vehicle 12. Specifically, the automatic driving control unit 54 controls the actuator 46 to automatically drive the vehicle 12.

[0067] The first display instruction unit 56 displays the plan for the vehicle 12 on the first display unit 24 based on the operation plan set by the operation plan setting unit 52. The function of this first display instruction unit 56 will be described with reference to Figs. 4(B), 5(B), and 6(B).

[0068] As shown in FIG. 4(B), the set speed VA during cruise control and the current vehicle speed VB of the vehicle 12 are displayed in the upper part of the display area of ​​the first display unit 24. The set speed VA and the vehicle speed VB are displayed on the left side in the vehicle width direction in the display area 24A of the first display unit 24. The set speed VA is displayed in small letters in the lower part, and here, as an example, is set to 120 km / h. The current vehicle speed VB is displayed in the upper part, and is displayed as 58 km / h. Therefore, the vehicle 12 is set to travel at a speed of up to 120 km / h while maintaining a certain distance from the vehicle ahead.

[0069] On the left side of the display area 24A of the first display unit 24, an image V1 simulating the host vehicle and images V2 and V3 simulating surrounding vehicles are displayed on a road image R. Viewing the image V1 reveals that the host vehicle is traveling in the middle lane of the three lanes of the road image R. Images V2 and V3 are each displayed based on information detected by sensors (not shown) mounted on the vehicle 12. Viewing images V2 and V3 reveals that vehicles are traveling diagonally forward to the right of the host vehicle and in front of the host vehicle. The position of the host vehicle can be detected by a GPS device mounted on the vehicle 12. Sensors for detecting surrounding vehicles may be a combination of a stereo camera, an ultrasonic sensor, a millimeter-wave radar, a laser radar, and the like. Alternatively, the position of the host vehicle and the positions of surrounding vehicles may be ascertained by vehicle-to-vehicle communication with surrounding vehicles.

[0070] To the right of the display area 24A of the first display unit 24, a specific display area 24B is set by the first display instruction unit 56 to display plans for the vehicle 12, and multiple plans to be executed are displayed in the specific display area 24B. In this embodiment, as an example, three plans are displayed in order from bottom to top: a first plan P1, a second plan P2, and a third plan P3. Each plan displays three pieces of information: the distance from the current location to the planned execution location of the action, the planned driving route, and the driving type. The driving type here refers to whether the action is performed manually by the driver or by automatic driving. In this embodiment, as an example, only the three most recent plans are displayed, and subsequent plans are not displayed, but this is not limiting. For example, four or more plans may be displayed on the first display unit 24. The number of plans (however, multiple) to be displayed on the first display unit 24 may be arbitrarily set.

[0071] The first plan P1, the second plan P2, and the third plan P3 will be specifically described below.

[0072] As shown in Figure 4(B), "100m" is displayed to the left of the first plan P1, indicating that the operation will be performed approximately 100m from the current location. In addition, a schematic diagram of a lane change from the left lane to the right lane is displayed in the center of the first plan P1, and this schematic diagram allows the user to understand the planned driving route. Furthermore, "ASSIST" is displayed to the right of the first plan P1, indicating that the operation will be performed (implemented) by autonomous driving (driving assistance control).

[0073] The first plan P1 is displayed slightly larger than the second plan P2 and the third plan P3, which will be described later. The first plan P1 corresponds to the "top plan."

[0074] Meanwhile, the second plan P2 is displayed above the first plan P1. To the left of the second plan P2, "200m" is displayed, indicating that the operation will be performed (implemented) approximately 200m from the current location. In addition, in the center of the second plan P2, a schematic diagram of the route merging from the service road on the left onto the main road is displayed, and this schematic diagram allows the user to understand the planned driving route. Furthermore, to the right of the second plan P2, "MANUAL" is displayed, indicating that the operation will be performed by manual driving. In other words, a temporary handover from automatic driving to manual driving will occur before traveling 200m. Note that in this embodiment, as an example, the occupant is configured to perform only the merging operation, and the vehicle switches to automatic driving after changing lanes.

[0075] The third plan P3 is displayed above the second plan P2. To the left of the third plan P3, "800m" is displayed, indicating that the operation will take place (be implemented) approximately 800m from the current location. In addition, in the center of the third plan P3, a schematic diagram of a lane change from the left lane to the right lane is displayed, and this schematic diagram allows the planned driving route to be understood. Furthermore, to the right of the third plan P3, "ASSIST" is displayed, indicating that the operation will be performed by autonomous driving (driving assistance control).

[0076] Incidentally, examples of cases in which a manual driving plan may be inserted into an automated driving operation plan include when it is known in advance that a merging point is always congested and that it would be difficult for automated driving to merge, or when a traffic jam has occurred due to an accident or other reason, making it difficult for automated driving to change lanes.

[0077] Figure 5(B) shows the image on the first display unit 24 when the vehicle 12 has traveled approximately 100 m from the state shown in Figure 4(B). As shown in Figure 5(B), the display on the left of the first plan P1 has been changed to "0 m," the display on the left of the second plan P2 has been changed to "100 m," and the display on the left of the third plan P3 has been changed to "700 m."

[0078] FIG. 5(B) is a diagram showing a state during fade-out processing (image display processing that gradually decreases the display density), which is one of the animation processes of the first plan P1 shown in FIG. 4(B).

[0079] That is, in Fig. 5(B), the first plan P1 is displayed in the specific display area 24B of the display area 24A with a lower display density than that of Fig. 4(B) (this state is shown by the frame representing the first plan P1 shown by a dashed line). The other display contents are the same as those in Fig. 4(B).

[0080] Figure 6(B) shows a state in which, after the fade-out process of the first plan P1 shown in Figure 5(B) has been completed (the first plan P1 has been erased), the second plan P2 and the third plan P3 are slid (moved) downward one level at a time within the specific display area 24B, and the fourth plan P4 is undergoing a fade-in process (an image display process that gradually increases the display density) to the third level position.

[0081] That is, Figure 6(B) shows the process (intermediate state) of gradually increasing the display density of the fourth plan P4 at the third row position within the specific display area 24B (this state is shown by the frame representing the fourth plan P4 being shown with a dashed line).

[0082] As shown in Figure 6(B), "1.5km" is displayed on the left side of the fourth plan P4, indicating that the operation will be performed approximately 1.5km from the current location. Furthermore, in the center of the fourth plan P4, a schematic diagram of the route merging from the service road on the right onto the main road is displayed, allowing the user to understand the planned route. Furthermore, "ASSIST" is displayed on the right side of the fourth plan P4, indicating that the operation will be performed by automated driving (driving assistance control).

[0083] FIG. 7B is a diagram showing a state in which the fade-in process of the fourth plan P4 has been completed.

[0084] As shown in Figure 7(B), in the specific display area 24B of the display area 24A, the display density of the fourth plan P4 is increased to the display density of the other plans (the second plan P2, the third plan P3), and the fourth plan P4 is displayed above the third plan P3 in the specific display area 24B. The other display contents are the same as in Figure 6(B).

[0085] Next, the second display instruction unit 58 will be described.

[0086] 3, the vehicular display device 10 includes, as a functional configuration, a second display instruction unit 58. The second display instruction unit 58 is configured to display, on the second display unit 26, the two plans that are scheduled to be implemented earliest among the plans displayed on the first display unit 24 by the first display instruction unit 56.

[0087] The highlighting unit 60 has the function of highlighting (enlarging) the plan that is scheduled to be implemented earliest (hereinafter referred to as the "top plan") more than the other plans when multiple plans are displayed in the specific display areas 24B and 26B of the first display unit 24 and the second display unit 26, respectively.

[0088] As shown in Fig. 4(B), the highlighting unit 60 causes the first plan P1 (see Fig. 4(B)) and the second plan P2 (see Fig. 7(B)), which are the top plans, to be displayed slightly enlarged compared to the other plans in the specific display area 24B of the first display unit 24. For example, the enlargement is about 110%.

[0089] On the other hand, when a plurality of plans are displayed on the second display unit 26, the highlighting unit 60 displays the most recent plan on the second display unit 26 in a more emphasized manner than the other plans.

[0090] The functions of the second display instruction unit 58 and the highlighting unit 60 will be described with reference to Figs. 4(A) to 7(A). Images displayed on the second display unit 26 that are substantially similar to images displayed on the first display unit 24 are given the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof will be omitted. Images displayed on the second display unit 26 that are substantially similar to images displayed on the first display unit 24 display content synchronized with the display on the first display unit 24.

[0091] As shown in FIG. 4(A), the set speed VA during cruise control and the current vehicle speed VB of the vehicle 12 are displayed at the bottom of the display area 26A of the second display unit 26. The set speed VA and the vehicle speed VB are displayed on the left side of the display area 26A of the second display unit 26 in the vehicle width direction. The set speed VA is displayed on the right side and is set to 120 km / h, as an example here. The current vehicle speed is displayed on the left side and is displayed as 58 km / h. Therefore, the vehicle 12 is set to travel at a speed up to 120 km / h while maintaining a certain distance from the vehicle ahead. The display of the set speed and the vehicle speed is synchronized with the content of the first display unit 24.

[0092] To the right of the display area 26A of the second display unit 26, a specific display area 26B is set by the second display instruction unit 58 to display a plan for the vehicle 12, and multiple plans to be implemented (a first plan P1 that is the most recent plan and a second plan P2 that is the next plan to be implemented) are displayed within the specific display area 26B. The first plan P1, which is the most recent plan, is displayed below. As shown in FIG. 4(A), this first plan P1 is displayed enlarged compared to the other plans (second plan P2). The distance of 100 m to the first plan P1 is written below, and a schematic diagram of a lane change from the left lane to the right lane is displayed above that distance of 100 m. The word "ASSIST" is displayed to the right of the schematic diagram, indicating that the vehicle is driving autonomously.

[0093] In addition, in the display area 26A of the second display unit 26, a second plan P2 is displayed above the first plan P1.

[0094] Figure 5(A) is a diagram showing the state when the vehicle 12 has traveled 100 m from the state in Figure 4(A), and shows the state in which the first plan P1 is undergoing a fade-out process in the specific display area 26B of the display area 26A.

[0095] Figure 6(A) shows the state in which, after the first plan P1 has been erased from the specific display area 26B of the display area 26A of the second display unit 26 from the state shown in Figure 5(A), the second plan P2 has moved downward and been enlarged, and the third plan P3 being added is undergoing a fade-in process in the specific display area 26B of the display area 26A.

[0096] FIG. 7(A) is a diagram showing the state in which the fade-in process of the third plan P3 from the state of FIG. 6(A) has been completed and the third plan P3 is displayed above the second plan P2 in the specific display area 26B.

[0097] Next, the function of the first determination unit 62 will be described. As described above, the display of the plans in the specific display areas 24B and 26B is updated by the first display instruction unit 56 and the second display instruction unit 58, and this update starts when the operation of the top plan starts. The first determination unit 62 determines whether the operation of the top plan has started.

[0098] Specifically, the first determination unit 62 has a function of detecting whether an operation has started for each type of operation of the top plan (lane change, lane merging, lane branching, etc.) by detecting whether a drive signal for an actuator that is executed first at the start of the operation is detected. For example, if the top plan is a lane change to the right lane, the first determination unit 62 determines that the operation of the top plan has started by detecting a flashing drive signal for the right turn signal of the vehicle 12.

[0099] Next, a description will be given of the function of the second determination unit 64. When the display of the plans in the specific display areas 24B and 26B is updated, the second determination unit 64 has a function of determining whether or not there is an additional plan to display.

[0100] Specifically, the determination is made based on whether or not there are any plans in the operation plan (list of plans) created by the operation plan setting unit 52 that have not been displayed in the specific display areas 24B and 26B of the first display unit 24 and the second display unit 26.

[0101] In addition, when the number of plans displayed in the specific display area 24B and the specific display area 26B differ as in this embodiment, the second determination unit 64 first determines the first display unit 24 (specific display area 24B) which has the larger number of displayed plans. If the determination is affirmative (there are undisplayed (additional) plans), this means that there are also additional plans in the second display unit 26 (specific display area 26B).

[0102] On the other hand, if a negative judgment is made there, the second judgment unit 64 judges whether there are multiple plans displayed in the specific display area 24B, and if a positive judgment is made, it judges that there are additional plans in the second display unit 26.

[0103] (action)

[0104] Next, the operation of this embodiment will be described.

[0105] (Display processing)

[0106] An example of a display process for displaying a plan for the vehicle 12 based on an operation plan will be described with reference to the flowcharts shown in Figures 8 and 9. This display process is performed by the CPU 30 reading a display program from the ROM 32 or storage 36, and expanding and executing the program in the RAM 34.

[0107] 8, the CPU 30 determines whether or not a destination has been set in step S102. The destination may be directly input by the occupant to the vehicle 12, or may be indirectly input via a mobile terminal or the like.

[0108] If the CPU 30 determines in step S102 that a destination has been set, the process proceeds to step S104. If the CPU 30 determines in step S102 that a destination has not been set, the display process ends.

[0109] In step S104, the CPU 30 sets an operation plan for the vehicle 12. Specifically, the CPU 30 sets an operation plan from the current location to the destination using the function of the operation plan setting unit 52. When setting the operation plan, information on traffic conditions and accidents may be acquired and reflected. In addition, the operation plan may be set so that more autonomous driving occurs in accordance with the passenger requests input in advance.

[0110] In step S106, the CPU 30 causes the first display unit 24 and the second display unit 26 to display the plan. Specifically, the CPU 30 causes the first display unit 24 and the second display unit 26 to display the plan for the vehicle 12 based on the operation plan using the functions of the first display instruction unit 56 and the second display instruction unit 58, respectively.

[0111] As an example, as shown in Fig. 4(B), the CPU 30 displays three plans, a first plan P1, a second plan P2, and a third plan P3, in a specific display area 24B set to the right of the display area 24A of the first display unit 24. Similarly, as shown in Fig. 4(A), the CPU 30 displays two plans, a first plan P1 and a second plan P2, in a specific display area 26B set to the right of the display area 26A of the second display unit 26.

[0112] At this time, the CPU 30, using the function of the highlighting unit 60, displays the top plan, the first plan P1, in the specific display area 24B of the first display unit 24, slightly enlarged compared to the displays of the other plans (second plan P2, third plan P3), as shown in Figure 4(B).

[0113] Similarly, by using the function of the highlighting unit 60, the CPU 30 displays the top plan, the first plan P1, in an enlarged manner in the specific display area 26B of the second display unit 26, as shown in Figure 4(A), compared to the displays of the other plans (second plan P2).

[0114] In step S108, the CPU 30 determines whether or not the operation of the top plan (first plan P1) has started, using the function of the first determination unit 62. Of the plans P1 to P3 displayed on the first display unit 24 shown in FIG. 4(B), whether or not the operation (lane change control (driving assistance control)) of the first plan P1, which is the top plan, has started is determined based on the drive signal for the actuator 46, etc. For example, in the case of a lane change, the first determination unit 62 detects a blinking drive signal for the direction indicator, thereby determining that the lane change control (driving assistance control), which is the first plan P1, has started.

[0115] If a negative determination is made in step S108, the CPU 30 waits until an affirmative determination is made.

[0116] If a positive judgment is made in step S108, the CPU 30 performs a fade-out process on the top plan (first plan P1) displayed on the first display unit 24 and the second display unit 26 in step S110, as shown in Figure 9, using the functions of the first display instruction unit 56 and the second display instruction unit 58.

[0117] Specifically, as shown in FIG. 5(B), in the specific display area 24B of the display area 24A of the first display unit 24, the display density of the first plan P1 for which the operation has started is gradually decreased to erase the first plan P1.

[0118] Similarly, as shown in FIG. 5(A), in the specific display area 26B of the display area 26A of the second display unit 26, the display density of the first plan P1 for which the operation has started is gradually decreased to erase the first plan P1.

[0119] Next, in step S112, the CPU 30 moves the second plan P2 and the third plan P3 from the state of Fig. 5(B) downward (towards the position where the top plan was displayed) within the specific display area 24B, as shown in Fig. 6(B), by the function of the first display instruction unit 56. At this time, the second plan P2 moved to the position of the top plan is displayed slightly enlarged by the function of the highlighting display unit 60.

[0120] Similarly, the CPU 30 moves the second plan P2 downward from the state of Fig. 5(A) as shown in Fig. 6(A) by the function of the second display instruction unit 58. At this time, the second plan P2 moved to the position of the top plan is enlarged and displayed by the function of the highlighting unit 60.

[0121] Furthermore, in step S114, the CPU 30 determines, by the function of the second determination unit 64, whether or not there is an undisplayed plan (additional plan) in the specific display area 24B of the first display unit 24. If the determination is affirmative, the process proceeds to step S116, and if the determination is negative, the process proceeds to step S118.

[0122] In step S116, the CPU 30 uses the function of the first display instruction unit 56 to perform a fade-in process for the fourth plan P4, which is the additional plan scheduled to be implemented earliest among the undisplayed plans, as shown in Figures 6(B) and 7(B). Specifically, in the specific display area 24B of the display area 24A, the display density of the fourth plan P4 is gradually increased above the third plan P3 to match the display density of the other plans (the second plan P2 and the third plan P3), and the fourth plan P4 is displayed above the third plan P3. That is, as shown in Figure 7(B), the three plans scheduled to be implemented earliest (the second plan P2, the third plan P3, and the fourth plan P4) are displayed at the current position of the vehicle 12 (the plans displayed in the specific display area 24B are updated).

[0123] Similarly, the CPU 30, by the function of the second display instruction unit 58, gradually increases the display density of the third plan P3 at a position above the second plan P2 in the specific display area 26B of the display area 26A, so that the third plan P3 to be added is displayed above the second plan P2, as shown in Figures 6(A) and 7(A). That is, as shown in Figure 7(A), the two plans (second plan P2, third plan P3) scheduled to be implemented earliest at the current position of the vehicle 12 are displayed (the plans displayed in the specific display area 26B are updated).

[0124] If a negative judgment is made in step S114, the CPU 30 determines in step S118, by the function of the second judgment unit 64, whether or not multiple plans are displayed in the first display unit (specific display area 24B).

[0125] This is because the number of plans displayed in the specific display area 26B of the second display unit 26 (two in this embodiment) is less than the number of plans displayed in the specific display area 24B of the first display unit 24 (three in this embodiment), so even if there are no additional plans for the first display unit 24, if multiple plans are displayed on the first display unit 24, there will be additional plans for the second display unit 26.

[0126] Therefore, when the determination in step S118 is affirmative, in step S120, the CPU 30 performs a fade-in process for the third plan P3 to be added only on the second display unit 26 by using the function of the second display instruction unit 58. Specifically, the third plan P3 to be added is displayed above the second plan P2 in the specific display area 26B of the display area 26A by gradually increasing the display density of the third plan P3 at a position above the second plan P2 until it reaches the display density of the other plan (the second plan P2), thereby displaying the third plan P3 above the second plan P2. That is, as shown in FIG. 7(A), the two plans (the second plan P2 and the third plan P3) scheduled to be implemented earliest at the current position of the vehicle 12 are displayed (the plans displayed in the specific display area 26B are updated).

[0127] If a negative decision is made in step S118, the CPU 30 proceeds to step S122.

[0128] Subsequently, in step S122, the CPU 30 determines whether or not there are any plans to be implemented remaining in the first display unit 24 (specific display area 24B). If the determination in step S122 is affirmative, the process returns to step S108 because display processing of these plans is required.

[0129] If a negative determination is made in step S122, there are no plans displayed in the specific display areas 24B, 26B of the first display unit 24 and the second display unit 26, and therefore the display process is terminated.

[0130] As described above, in the vehicle display device 10 according to this embodiment, a top plan (for example, the first plan P1) whose operation has started is faded out on the first display unit 24 and the second display unit 26. Specifically, in the specific display area 24B of the display area 24A of the first display unit 24 and the specific display area 26B of the display area 26A of the second display unit 26, the display density of the top plan (for example, the first plan P1) is gradually reduced, and the top plan is erased.

[0131] In this way, when the top plan (e.g., the first plan P1) displayed in the specific display area 24B, 26B on the first display unit 24 and the second display unit 26 is erased, a fade-out process is performed (the display density of the top plan is gradually reduced in the specific display area 24B, 26B and the top plan is erased), so that the occupant in the driver's seat can reliably understand that the top plan will be erased from the first display unit 24 and the second display unit 26.

[0132] Therefore, for example, even if the same (same type) plan (e.g., a lane change to the right lane) is displayed consecutively in the specific display area 24B of the first display unit 24 or the specific display area 26B of the second display unit 26, it is possible to prevent or suppress the occupant from noticing that the plan display has been updated (the top plan has been erased).

[0133] Furthermore, when updating the display of the plans in the specific display areas 24B, 26B of the first display unit 24 or the second display unit 26, after the top action plan is moved (erased), the remaining plans are moved (slid) downward (down one step at a time), and the additional plans are additionally displayed using a fade-in process (gradually increasing the display density of the additional plans), so that the occupants can be sure that a plan has been added (the display of the plans has been updated).

[0134] Furthermore, since the first display unit 24 is disposed above and in front of the driver on the instrument panel 14, and the second display unit 26 is disposed in front of the driver on the windshield glass 18, the driver can visually confirm plan updates displayed in the specific display areas 24B, 26B of the first display unit 24 and the second display unit 26 without moving their eyes much. In other words, the driver can easily visually confirm plan updates.

[0135] Furthermore, since the vehicle 12 has such a vehicle display device 10, the occupants can easily grasp the order in which the plans (operations (lane changes, lane merging, etc.)) are scheduled to be executed, and can reliably grasp updates to the display of the plans.

[0136] (Variation 1)

[0137] A first variation of the vehicle display device 10A of this embodiment will be described. The only difference from the first embodiment is the way the fade-out process of the top plan is performed, and only this point will be described with reference to FIG.

[0138] In the vehicle display device 10A relating to the first variation, operation of the first plan P1, which is the top plan, is started, and the first plan P1, which is to be faded out on the specific display area 24B of the display area 24A of the first display unit 24, is highlighted (for example, flashed (see the bold line portion of the first display unit 24 in Figure 10)) before the fade-out process.

[0139] In the first variation of the vehicular display device 10, the first plan P1, which is the top plan, is already enlarged and displayed in the specific display areas 24B and 26B in the first display unit 24 and the second display unit 26, as in the first embodiment, so this highlighting refers to highlighting other than enlarged display. However, when the first plan P1, which is the top plan, is not enlarged and displayed as in the first embodiment, this highlighting also includes enlarged display.

[0140] This allows the occupant to more reliably understand that the operation of the first plan P1 has started (is being carried out) and that the display of the first plan P1 will be erased.

[0141] (2nd variation)

[0142] A second variation of the vehicle display device of this embodiment will be described. The vehicle display device 10B according to the second variation has a slightly different functional configuration and display processing from the vehicle display device 10. This difference will be described.

[0143] When an additional plan different from the plan previously set in the operation plan is required, the display process for additionally displaying that plan (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the "additional plan") will be described with reference to the flowchart of Figure 11 and Figures 12 to 15.

[0144] First, a functional configuration of the vehicle display device 10B will be described. The same components as those in the vehicle display device 10 of the first embodiment will be given the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0145] 12, the vehicle display device 10B has a third determination unit 66. The third determination unit 66 has a function of determining whether or not there is a plan (additional plan) newly generated by the operation plan setting unit 52, and a function of determining whether or not the additional plan should be inserted and displayed in the specific display areas 24B, 26B of the first display unit 24 and the second display unit 26.

[0146] Specifically, the third determination unit 66 determines that an additional plan has been generated when a plan other than the original plan has been added (generated) by the operation plan setting unit 52. In this case, the third determination unit 66 determines whether or not an insertion display is required in each of the specific display areas 24B, 26B based on whether or not the planned execution order of the additional plan is equal to or less than the number of plans displayed in the specific display area 24B of the first display unit 24 (3 in this variation) and the number of plans displayed in the specific display area 26B of the second display unit 26 (2 in this variation).

[0147] (action)

[0148] The vehicle display device 10B performs the following display process.

[0149] First, in step S202, the CPU 30 uses the function of the third determination unit 66 to determine whether an additional plan has been generated by the operation plan setting unit 52. Specifically, when the CPU 30 detects a vehicle behavior (vehicle operation) that is not in the operation plan using the function of the operation plan setting unit 52, the CPU 30 determines whether an additional plan is needed, and if so, generates an additional plan. When the CPU 30 detects the generation of this additional plan, it determines that an additional plan has been generated.

[0150] For example, if the vehicle 12 is in the state shown in Fig. 1 and the vehicle ahead (shown in image V3) suddenly decelerates, and the occupant of the vehicle 12 manually changes lanes of the vehicle 12 (shown in image V1) to the left, an additional lane change to the right is required to return to the original lane. In such a case, an additional plan (lane change to the right lane) is generated.

[0151] If a negative determination is made in step S202, the CPU 30 ends the process.

[0152] Next, if a positive judgment is made in step S202, the CPU 30 determines in step S204, using the function of the third judgment unit 66, whether or not the plan (fifth plan P5) needs to be inserted into the specific display areas 24B and 26B of the first display unit 24 and the second display unit 26, respectively.

[0153] This is because, for example, if the additional plan is fourth or later in the order of scheduled implementation of the plans to be implemented, it can be displayed using the normal fade-in processing after the top plan (first plan P1) is erased (similar to step S116 of the flowchart in Figure 9 (see Figure 6(B))).

[0154] For example, as described above, if a lane change to the right lane is added because the vehicle manually changes lanes to the left, the lane change to the right lane must be made at least before the right-hand merge (second plan P2), so the planned implementation distance of the additional plan, fifth plan P5, is set to 150 m, which is shorter than the planned implementation distance of 200 m of the second plan.

[0155] Using the function of the third judgment unit 66, the CPU 30 determines that the fifth plan P5, which is an additional plan, needs to be inserted before the second plan P2 because the planned implementation distance of the fifth plan P5 is smaller than the planned implementation distance of the second plan P2.

[0156] If a negative decision is made in step S204, the CPU 30 ends the display process.

[0157] If a positive judgment is made in step S204, the CPU 30 performs a fade-out process in step S206 for the plan with the latest scheduled implementation (hereinafter referred to as the "last plan") displayed at the top of each specific display area 24B, 26B of the first display unit 24 and the second display unit 26.

[0158] That is, as shown in Figure 13 (B), by the function of the first display instruction unit 56, the display density of the third plan P3, which is the last plan, is gradually reduced and erased in the specific display area 24B of the display area 24A of the first display unit 24.

[0159] Similarly, as shown in Figure 13 (A), by the function of the second display instruction unit 58, the display density of the second plan P2, which is the last plan, is gradually reduced and erased in the specific display area 26B of the display area 26A of the second display unit 26.

[0160] Next, in step S208, the CPU 30 performs a slide process using the functions of the first display instruction unit 56 and the second display instruction unit 58 if there is display space above the insertion position of the additional plan in the specific display areas 24B, 26B.

[0161] Specifically, as shown in FIG. 14(B), in the specific display area 24B of the first display unit 24, the second plan P2 that can be displayed above the insertion position of the fifth plan P5 moves upward.

[0162] As shown in FIG. 14(A), in the first display unit 26, there is no space to display other plans above the insertion position of the fifth plan P5 in the specific display area 26B, so the slide process is not performed.

[0163] Subsequently, in step S210, the CPU 30 performs a fade-in process for the fifth plan P5, which is an additional plan.

[0164] Specifically, as shown in Fig. 14(B), the function of the first display instruction unit 56 gradually increases the display density of the fifth plan P5 at a position between the first plan P1 and the slid second plan P2 in the specific display area 24B of the display area 24A of the first display unit 24, up to the display density of the other plans (first plan P1, second plan P2). As a result, as shown in Fig. 15(B), the fifth plan P5 is inserted (displayed) between the first plan P1 and the second plan P2 in the specific display area 24B.

[0165] 14(A), the second display instruction unit 58 gradually increases the display density of the fifth plan P5 above the first plan P1 in the specific display area 26B of the display area 26A of the second display unit 26, until it reaches the display density of the other plan (first plan P1). As a result, as shown in FIG. 15(A), the fifth plan P5 is inserted (displayed) above the first plan P1 within the specific display area 26B.

[0166] In this way, in the vehicle display device 10 relating to the second variation, when an additional plan is generated due to the vehicle's behavior (occupant operation), etc., and the additional plan (for example, the fifth plan P5) is inserted into the specific display area 24B of the first display unit 24 or the specific display area 26B of the second display unit 26, the last plans (the third plan P3 and the second plan P2) are erased from the specific display areas 24B and 26B, respectively, by a fade-out process, and if necessary, a slide process is performed (the second plan P2 is moved to the top), and the additional plan (the fifth plan P5) is inserted into the specific display areas 24B and 26B by a fade-in process.

[0167] This allows the occupant to reliably recognize that the last plan has been deleted from the display and that the additional plan (fifth plan P5) has been inserted. In other words, the driver can reliably recognize that a plan has been added.

[0168] In particular, since the additional plan (fifth plan P5) is inserted into the specific display areas 24B and 26B by fade-in processing, the passengers can clearly recognize where the additional plan has been inserted among the multiple displayed plans.

[0169] Note that "insertion" of an additional plan includes not only the case where an additional plan is inserted between multiple plans, but also the case where an additional plan is inserted at the end (position) of multiple plans displayed side by side in the specific display areas 24B and 26B, as shown in Figure 15(A).

[0170] [Second embodiment]

[0171] A description will now be given of a vehicle display device 100 according to the second embodiment. The same components as those in the vehicle display device 10 according to the first embodiment are given the same reference numerals, and detailed descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0172] The only difference from the vehicle display device 10 is the display processing method, so only this part will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. 16 and FIG.

[0173] The first half of the display process in the vehicle display device 100 is exactly the same as the display process in the vehicle display device 10 (see FIG. 8), so the explanation will be substituted for the flowchart in FIG. 8. In addition, in the flowchart in FIG. 16, steps that are the same as those in the display process of the vehicle display device 10 are given the same step numbers, and detailed explanations thereof will be omitted.

[0174] When the CPU 30 determines in step S108 (see Figure 8) that operation of the top plan (first plan P1) has started, in step S302 of Figure 16, using the functions of the first display instruction unit 56 and the second display instruction unit 58, the first plan P1 is moved to the left (outside) from the specific display area 24B, 26B in each display area 24A, 26A of the first display unit 24 and the second display unit 26, respectively, and positioned on the road image R (see Figures 17(A) and (B)).

[0175] Next, in step S204, the CPU 30 erases the first plan P1 positioned on the road image R in the display area 24A of the first display unit 24 and the display area 26A of the second display unit 26 by fade-out processing using the functions of the first display instruction unit 56 and the second display instruction unit 58.

[0176] At the same time, the CPU 30 moves (slides) the remaining plans (the second plan P2 and the third plan, or the second plan) downward in each specific display area 24B, 26B of the first display unit 24 and the second display unit 26, and, if there are additional plans, displays the additional plan (the fourth plan P4 or the third plan P3) at the top of the specific display area 24B, 26B using a fade-in process (steps S112 to S116).

[0177] According to the vehicle display device 100 that performs display processing in this manner, the top plan (first plan P1) that has started to be implemented is moved onto the road image R, so that the occupant can reliably understand the plan in which the operation is being carried out.

[0178] For example, if the top plan and the next (second) plan to be executed are the same type of plan (changing lanes to the right lane), if the top plan is simply erased from the specific display areas 24B and 26B when the operation starts and the display of the plans is updated, there is a risk that the occupants will mistakenly believe that the plan for which the operation has started is the next plan.

[0179] However, with this vehicle display device 100, the top plan (first plan P1) for which an operation has started is moved onto the road image R displayed in each display area 24A, 26A of the first display unit 24 and the second display unit 26, so that the occupant can reliably understand which plan is being operated on.

[0180] The vehicle display device 100 has the same effects as the vehicle display device 10.

[0181] (others)

[0182] Although the vehicle display device and the display processing method according to the embodiment have been described above, it goes without saying that the present invention can be embodied in various forms without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. For example, in the above embodiment, the first display unit 24 is provided in front of the driver's seat on the instrument panel 14, and the second display unit 26 is a projection surface projected by the head-up display device 44. However, the present invention is not limited to this. That is, the first display unit may be a center display provided in the center of the instrument panel 14 in the vehicle width direction. Furthermore, the second display unit may be provided on the instrument panel 14 on the vehicle front side of the steering wheel 16.

[0183] Furthermore, in the first embodiment (including the first and second variations (hereinafter the same)) and the second embodiment, the top plan was enlarged and displayed in the specific display areas 24B, 26B of the first display unit 24 and the second display unit 26 by the function of the highlighting unit 60, but this is not essential. That is, all of the multiple plans may be displayed at the same size in the specific display areas 24B, 26B of the first display unit 24 and the second display unit 26.

[0184] Furthermore, in the first variation of the first embodiment, the top plan is highlighted by flashing when the top plan is faded out, but this is not limited to this and other methods of highlighting may be used. For example, the highlighting may be performed by changing the color or tone. The highlighting may also be performed by increasing the brightness of the plan. In the specific display areas 24B, 26B of the first display unit 24 and the second display unit 26, if all of the multiple plans are displayed at the same size (the top plan is not enlarged), the top plan may be highlighted by enlarging it when the top plan is faded out.

[0185] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, three pieces of information, namely, the distance to the operation of the vehicle 12, the planned route of the vehicle, and the type of driving, are displayed as a plan, but this is not limitative. For example, information such as the speed limit may be displayed, but from the viewpoint of making the display easier to see, it is preferable to display only the above three pieces of information. Furthermore, the display of the planned route of driving is not limited to the schematic diagrams shown in Figures 4 to 6, and may be displayed using other icons, etc.

[0186] In the above embodiment, the second display instruction unit 58 displays the two most recent plans on the second display unit 26. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the second display instruction unit 58 may display the three or more most recent plans on the second display unit 26.

[0187] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, multiple plans are displayed from bottom to top in the order of scheduled execution in the specific display areas 24B, 26B of the first display unit 24 and the second display unit 26, but this is not limited to this direction. For example, multiple plans may be displayed from top to bottom in the order of scheduled execution in the specific display areas 24B, 26B of the first display unit 24 and the second display unit 26.

[0188] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, a plurality of plans are displayed in the display areas 24A, 26A of the first display unit 24 and the second display unit 26, respectively, but the second display unit 26 may be configured to display only the most recent top plan.

[0189] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, fade-out processing, slide processing, and fade-in processing of plans were performed in the display areas 24A, 26A of the first display unit 24 and the second display unit 26, respectively, but the above processing may be performed only on either the first display unit 24 or the second display unit 26. Furthermore, in the first display unit 24 and the second display unit 26, only the fade-out processing of the top plan is required, and the slide processing and fade-in processing of additional plans can be omitted.

[0190] In the above embodiments, the fade-out process is described as an image display process in which the display density of the plan in the specific display area 24B, 26B is gradually reduced and the plan is erased, but this is not limited to this. For example, the plan may be erased after being moved from the display area 24A, 26A to the outside of the specific display area 24B, 26B. In this case, the display density of the plan may be gradually reduced during the movement, or the plan may be moved at a constant display density and erased after the movement.

[0191] The same applies to the fade-in process. While described as an image display process in which the display density of the plan in the specific display area 24B, 26B is gradually increased, the process is not limited to this. For example, the process may involve moving a plan displayed outside the specific display area 24B, 26B in the display area 24A, 26A into the specific display area 24B, 26B. In this case, the display density of the plan may be gradually increased during the movement, or the display density may be constant during the movement.

[0192] In the first embodiment, as shown in Fig. 18(B), when fading out the first plan P1, which is the top plan, the first plan P1 may be moved to the left from the specific display area 24B in the display area 24A and then erased. Similarly, as shown in Fig. 19(B), when fading in the fourth plan P4, which is an additional plan, the fourth plan P4 may be moved from the left side of the specific display area 24B in the display area 24A into the specific display area 24B and then erased.

[0193] As shown in FIGS. 18(A) and 19(A), it is conceivable that the second display unit 26 also performs image display processing in the same manner as the first display unit 24.

[0194] In the vehicle display devices of the first and second embodiments, the fade-out process of the top plan is started when the operation of the top plan starts, but the start condition for the fade-out process of the top plan is not limited to this. For example, the start condition for the fade-out process of the top plan may be the timing when the operation of the top plan is completed, or the timing when the vehicle 12 passes the planned execution position. The start condition for this fade-out process is not particularly limited as long as it is a condition related to the top plan. Note that these start conditions correspond to the "predetermined condition."

[0195] In addition, in the explanatory diagrams of the first and second embodiments, the fade-out process is described as starting at the planned implementation position (0 m) of the top plan, but this is not limited to this. For example, if the turn signal starts blinking before the planned implementation position of the lane change to the right lane in the first plan P1, the fade-out process can be started from the blinking start position (the blinking start time) of the turn signal.

[0196] Furthermore, in this series of embodiments, for the sake of convenience of explanation, it has been described that the plan fade-out process, slide process, and fade-in process are performed at different times in each display area 24A, 26A of the first display unit 24 and the second display unit 26, but these processes may also be performed simultaneously.

[0197] In this series of embodiments, for the sake of convenience, the fade-out process is illustrated as the plan moving to the outside of the specific display area 24B, 26B while maintaining a constant density, and then erasing it, but the process may also be such that the density is reduced as the plan moves and then the plan is erased.

[0198] Please note that the road conditions, plan types, distances, etc. displayed on the screen are for convenience of explanation only and may not match the actual road conditions.

[0199] Furthermore, the display processing performed by the CPU 30 in the above embodiment by reading software (programs) may be performed by various processors other than the CPU 30. Examples of such processors include programmable logic devices (PLDs) such as field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), whose circuit configuration can be changed after manufacture, and dedicated electrical circuits such as application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), which are processors with circuit configurations specifically designed to perform specific processing. The display processing may be performed by one of these various processors, or by a combination of two or more processors of the same or different types (e.g., multiple FPGAs, or a combination of a CPU and an FPGA). The hardware structure of these various processors is, more specifically, an electrical circuit that combines circuit elements such as semiconductor devices.

[0200] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, various data is stored in the storage 36, but this is not limiting. For example, a recording medium such as a CD (Compact Disk), a DVD (Digital Versatile Disk), or a USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory may be used as the storage unit. In this case, various programs and data are stored in these recording media. [Explanation of symbols]

[0201] 10 Vehicle display device 12 vehicles 14 Instrument panel 24 1st display section (display section) 24A, 26A display area 26 Second display section (display section, projection surface) 28 ECU (control unit) 44 Head-up display device P1~P5 Plan R Road image

Claims

1. a display unit provided in the vehicle interior and having a display area capable of displaying an image; a control unit that displays a plurality of plans to be implemented by the vehicle in the display area in order of scheduled implementation, and erases the top plan in the display area by fade-out processing when a predetermined condition is met for a top plan that is the plan that is scheduled to be implemented first among the plurality of plans; A vehicle display device having:

2. The vehicle display device according to claim 1, wherein when the control unit erases the top plan, the control unit moves the plan that was displayed in the display area together with the top plan toward the position where the top plan was displayed within the display area.

3. The vehicle display device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the control unit adds an additional plan, which is a plan different from the plurality of plans, to the display area and displays the additional plan.

4. The control unit displays an image of the road on which the vehicle is traveling at a position different from the multiple plans in the display area, and when a predetermined condition is met for the top plan, moves the top plan onto the road image within the display area and then erases it.

5. 5. The vehicle display device according to claim 1, wherein the predetermined condition of the top plan is met when the operation of the top plan is started.

6. a display unit provided in the vehicle interior and having a display area capable of displaying an image; a control unit that displays a plurality of plans to be implemented by the vehicle in the display area in order of scheduled implementation, erases a last plan that is the plan to be implemented last among the plurality of plans by fade-out processing in the display area, and then inserts an additional plan that is a plan different from the plurality of plans between the plurality of plans and displays them in order of scheduled implementation; A vehicle display device having:

7. The vehicle display device according to claim 3 or 6, wherein the control unit, when displaying the additional plan in the display area, displays the additional plan in the display area by fade-in processing.

8. The vehicle display device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the control unit highlights the plan before erasing it from the display area.

9. The vehicle display device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the display unit is provided in an instrument panel in front of a driver's seat.

10. The display device for a vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the display unit is a projection screen onto which a head-up display device projects.

11. A vehicle equipped with the vehicle display device according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

12. A display processing method for displaying a plurality of plans to be carried out in a vehicle in order of scheduled execution in a display area capable of displaying images on a display unit provided in a vehicle cabin, the method comprising: When a predetermined condition is met for a top plan, which is the plan that is to be implemented first among the plurality of plans, the top plan is faded out in the display area. and erasing the image.

13. A program for displaying a plurality of plans to be carried out in a vehicle in order of scheduled execution in a display area capable of displaying images on a display unit provided in a vehicle cabin, a step of erasing the top plan, which is the plan to be executed first among the plurality of plans, from the display area by fade-out processing when a predetermined condition is met for the top plan. A program for causing a computer to carry out processing including the above.

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