Drive assist apparatus and vehicle

Abstract

To provide a drive assist apparatus which can promote the utilization of an unused drive assist system, and a vehicle.SOLUTION: When use rejection data for an unused drive assist system is acquired, a drive assist apparatus according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can execute the generation of coaching proposal data for the unused drive support system, and when coaching understanding data for the unused drive assist system is acquired, can execute processing required for the coaching according to inputted user's intension.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a driving assistance device and a vehicle. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, various driving assistance systems have been researched and developed with the aim of reducing the burden on drivers, avoiding accidents, etc. Examples of driving assistance systems include leading vehicle following systems, lane keeping systems, and autonomous driving systems.

[0003] Because these driving assistance systems are convenient and useful for drivers, their use is suggested to drivers via a human-machine interface (HMI). Patent Documents 1 and 2 describe that driving assistance systems are suggested via an HMI. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2017-199187 [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2003-252130 Summary of the Invention

[0005] A driving assistance device according to a first aspect of the present disclosure includes a processing unit and a communication unit. The processing unit is capable of generating request data that requests input from a user and processing response data to the request data. The communication unit is capable of transmitting the request data to a user interface and receiving the response data from the user interface. The processing unit is capable of performing the following two operations: (A1) When receiving refusal data for use of the driving assistance system as response data, generate coaching proposal data for the driving assistance system as request data. (A2) When coaching consent data of the driving assistance system is received as response data, perform the processing necessary for coaching according to the input user's intention.

[0006] A vehicle according to a second aspect of the present disclosure includes a processing unit and a communication unit. The processing unit is capable of generating request data requesting input from a user and processing response data to the request data. The communication unit is capable of transmitting the request data to a user interface and receiving the response data from the user interface. The processing unit is capable of performing the following two operations: (B1) When receiving refusal data for use of the driving assistance system as response data, generating coaching proposal data for the driving assistance system as request data. (B2) When coaching consent data of the driving assistance system is received as response data, perform the processing necessary for coaching according to the input user's intention. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0007] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the disclosure, and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate one embodiment and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the disclosure.

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of functional blocks of a vehicle according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a specific example of the HMI of FIG. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a procedure for promoting the use of an unused driving assistance system in the vehicle of FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a processing procedure required for coaching an unused driving assistance system in step S107 of FIG. [Figure 5]FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of functional blocks of a vehicle according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a processing procedure required for coaching an unused driving assistance system in the second embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of functional blocks of a vehicle according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a processing procedure required for coaching an unused driving assistance system in the third embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] In recent years, various driving assistance systems have been researched and developed with the aim of reducing the burden on drivers, avoiding accidents, etc. Examples of driving assistance systems include leading vehicle following systems, lane keeping systems, and autonomous driving systems.

[0010] Because these driving assistance systems are convenient and useful for drivers, their use is suggested to drivers via a human-machine interface (HMI). Patent Documents 1 and 2 describe that driving assistance systems are suggested via an HMI.

[0011] In the invention described in Patent Document 1, if the number of rejections of the determined driving assistance package is less than a predetermined threshold, the determined driving assistance package continues to be proposed to the driver, and if the number of rejections of the determined driving assistance package is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold, a driving assistance package different from the determined driving assistance package is newly proposed. However, Patent Document 1 does not disclose or suggest any measures to encourage the driver to use the determined driving assistance package.

[0012] In the invention described in Patent Document 2, the driver instructs the setting of autocruise via the HMI unit. However, Patent Document 2 does not disclose or suggest any measures to encourage the driver to use autocruise when the driver denies the autocruise setting.

[0013] As described above, there has been no disclosure or suggestion of a method for encouraging drivers to use functions that have been denied by the driver in the past. It is desirable to provide a driving assistance device and a vehicle that can promote the use of unused driving assistance systems.

[0014] Some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that the following description illustrates one specific example of the present disclosure and should not be construed as limiting the present disclosure. For example, each element, including numerical values, shapes, materials, parts, the position of each part, and the connection method of each part, is merely an example and should not be construed as limiting the present disclosure. Furthermore, in the following exemplary embodiments, components not described in independent claims based on the highest concept of the present disclosure are optional and may be provided as needed. The drawings are schematic and are not intended to be drawn to scale. Throughout this specification and the drawings, components having substantially the same function and configuration are designated by the same reference numerals, and redundant description will be omitted. Furthermore, components not directly related to one embodiment of the present disclosure are not shown in the drawings.

[0015] <1. First embodiment> [Configuration example] Next, a vehicle 100 according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure will be described. Fig. 1 illustrates an example of functional blocks of the vehicle 100 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. The vehicle 100 includes, for example, a driving_ECU 110, a GNSS sensor 120, a speed sensor 130, a road map DB 140, a CP_ECU 150, an HMI (human-machine interface) 160, and a communication device 170, as shown in Fig. 1.

[0016] The vehicle 100 is configured to be able to communicate with the mobile terminal 200 via a communication network. The mobile terminal 200 is configured to be able to communicate with the vehicle 100 via the communication network. The communication network includes, for example, the Internet, a cloud network, or a network specific to a carrier. The driving_ECU 110, the GNSS sensor 120, the speed sensor 130, the road map DB 140, the CP_ECU 150, and the communication device 170 are connected via an in-vehicle communication line such as a CAN (Controller Area Network).

[0017] The travel_ECU 110 is capable of controlling the vehicle 100 according to, for example, a driving mode. An example of the driving mode is a driving control mode. The driving control mode is a driving mode that supports the driver of the vehicle 100 in driving operations by the driver of the vehicle 100 to increase the safety of pedestrians, vehicles, and the like around the vehicle 100 (host vehicle). The driving control mode includes, for example, a leading vehicle following mode, a lane keeping mode, an autonomous driving mode, and the like. The leading vehicle following mode, the lane keeping mode, the autonomous driving mode, and the like correspond to specific examples of a "driving assistance system" according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] A module consisting of the travel_ECU 110 and the CP_ECU 150 corresponds to a specific example of a "driving assistance device" according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The travel_ECU 110 corresponds to a specific example of a "processing unit" according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The CP_ECU 150 corresponds to a specific example of a "communication unit" according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] The HMI 160 is connected to the CP_ECU 150. As shown in FIG. 2 , the HMI 160 includes, for example, a steering wheel 161, a switch 162, an accelerator pedal 163, a brake pedal 164, a meter panel display 165, a center panel display 166, and a speaker 167. The switch 162 is, for example, a switch for controlling the illumination of a right turn light or a left turn light. The meter panel display 165 includes, for example, a liquid crystal display panel or an organic EL display panel, and is capable of displaying information such as speed and engine RPM. The center panel display 166 includes, for example, a touch-input-enabled liquid crystal display panel or an organic EL display panel, and is capable of performing various settings, including the setting of a driving mode.

[0020] When the CP_ECU 150 receives a control signal from the travel_ECU 110, it can appropriately notify the driver of the vehicle 100 of various information such as various warnings for preceding vehicles, the implementation status of driving assistance control, and the travel environment of the vehicle 100 by displaying or sounding via the HMI 160. In addition, the CP_ECU 150 can output various information input by the driver of the vehicle 100 via the HMI 160 to the travel_ECU 110.

[0021] The GNSS sensor 120 is capable of receiving positioning signals transmitted from multiple positioning satellites. The vehicle speed sensor 130 is capable of detecting the speed of the vehicle 100. The road map DB 140 includes a high-precision road map database. The high-precision road map database is a large-capacity storage medium such as an HDD, and stores high-precision road map information (dynamic map). This high-precision road map information includes, for example, road information and traffic information.

[0022] The communication unit 170 is a communication interface capable of communicating with the mobile terminal 200 of the driver of the vehicle 100. The communication device 170 is capable of transmitting information obtained from the traveling_ECU 110 to the mobile terminal 200 via a communication network. The mobile terminal 200 is capable of transmitting information obtained by the mobile terminal 200 to the vehicle 100 (communication device 170) via the communication network.

[0023] [Operation] Next, promotion of use of unused driving assistance systems in the vehicle 100 will be described with reference to Figures 3 and 4. Figure 3 shows an example of a procedure for promoting use of unused driving assistance systems in the vehicle 100. Figure 4 shows an example of a processing procedure required for coaching of unused driving assistance systems in step S107 of Figure 3.

[0024] Assume that the vehicle 100 is traveling on a road. At this time, the traveling_ECU 110 generates a proposal (hereinafter referred to as "proposal α1") for a driving assistance system according to the traveling situation of the vehicle 100 based on various information obtained from the GNSS sensor 120, the speed sensor 130, the road map DB 140, and the CP_ECU 150 while traveling, and outputs the proposal to the CP_ECU 150.

[0025] Here, proposal α1 is a proposal for one driving assistance system that is suitable for the driving conditions of vehicle 100, from among multiple driving assistance systems prepared for vehicle 100. The driving assistance system proposed in proposal α1 is a driving assistance system that is unused by vehicle 100 or the driver. Travel_ECU 110 generates a proposal for the driver to use the unused driving assistance system that is suitable for the driving conditions of vehicle 100 (step S101). Proposal α1 corresponds to a specific example of "request data requesting input from the user" according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] For example, when a preceding vehicle is present ahead of vehicle 100, traveling_ECU 110 generates, as proposal α1, a proposal to use a preceding vehicle following mode. Also, for example, when vehicle 100 is traveling on a road with a series of gentle curves, traveling_ECU 110 generates, as proposal α1, a proposal to use a lane keeping mode. Also, for example, when vehicle 100 is traveling on a highway, traveling_ECU 110 generates, as proposal α1, a proposal to use an autonomous driving mode.

[0027] The CP_ECU 150 outputs a video signal including the proposal α1 acquired from the traveling_ECU 110 to the center panel display 166, and outputs an audio signal corresponding to the proposal α1 to the speaker 167. The center panel display 166 displays the video including the proposal α1, and the speaker 167 outputs audio corresponding to the proposal α1 while the video including the proposal α1 is being displayed on the center panel display 166.

[0028] The driver inputs a response β1 to a proposal α1 from the vehicle 100 via the HMI 160. The response β1 is data indicating acceptance of the proposal α1 or data indicating rejection of the proposal α1 (use refusal data). The response β1 corresponds to a specific example of "response data to request data" according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The driver inputs the response β1, for example, by operating the center panel display 166. When the response β1 is input, the center panel display 166 outputs the input response β1 to the CP_ECU 150. When the response β1 is input, the CP_ECU 150 outputs the input response β1 to the traveling_ECU 110.

[0029] The traveling_ECU 110 determines whether the response β1 is a rejection of the proposal α1 (step S102). As a result, if the response β1 is an acceptance of the proposal α1 (step S102; N), the traveling_ECU 110 executes processing required to implement the driving assistance system corresponding to the proposal α1 (step S103). The traveling_ECU 110 selects, for example, a leading vehicle following mode, a lane keeping mode, or an autonomous driving mode as the driving mode, and executes processing according to the selected driving mode.

[0030] On the other hand, if the response β1 is a rejection (use rejection data) of the proposal α1 (step S102; Y), the traveling_ECU 110 generates a coaching proposal for the rejected driving assistance system (hereinafter referred to as "proposal α2") and outputs it to the CP_ECU 150. The proposal α2 corresponds to a specific example of "request data requesting input from the user" and "coaching proposal data" according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] CP_ECU 150 outputs a video signal including proposal α2 acquired from traveling_ECU 110 to center panel display 166, and outputs an audio signal corresponding to proposal α2 to speaker 167. Center panel display 166 displays the video including proposal α2, and speaker 167 outputs audio corresponding to proposal α2 while the video including proposal α2 is being displayed on center panel display 166.

[0032] The driver inputs a response β2 to the proposal α2 from the vehicle 100 via the HMI 160. The response β2 is data indicating acceptance of the proposal α2 (coaching acceptance data) or data indicating rejection of the proposal α2 (coaching rejection data). The response β2 corresponds to a specific example of "response data to request data," "coaching acceptance data," or "coaching rejection data" according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The driver inputs the response β2, for example, by operating the center panel display 166. When the response β2 is input, the center panel display 166 outputs the input response β2 to the CP_ECU 150. When the response β2 is input, the CP_ECU 150 outputs the input response β2 to the driving_ECU 110.

[0033] The traveling_ECU 110 determines whether the response β2 is acceptance of the proposal α2 (step S105). If the response β2 is a rejection of the proposal α2 (coaching rejection data) (step S105; N), the traveling_ECU 110 executes processing required to send an email informing the terminal device 200 about the proposal α2 (coaching for the driving assistance system) or an email informing the terminal device 200 about a trial session of the driving assistance system at a dealer (step S106).

[0034] On the other hand, if the response β2 is consent to the proposal α2 (coaching consent data) (step S105; Y), the traveling_ECU 110 executes processing required for coaching of the approved driving assistance system (step S107).

[0035] For example, the traveling_ECU 110 first generates a message prompting the driver to park the vehicle 100 in order to ensure the safety of the vehicle 100 when providing coaching, and outputs the message to the CP_ECU 150 (step S201). The CP_ECU 150 outputs a video signal including the message acquired from the traveling_ECU 110 to the center panel display 166, and outputs an audio signal corresponding to the message to the speaker 167. The center panel display 166 displays the video including the message, and the speaker 167 outputs audio corresponding to the message while the video including the message is being displayed on the center panel display 166.

[0036] Next, the travel_ECU 110 monitors the input of a signal indicating that parking of the vehicle 100 has been detected, and continues to determine whether the vehicle 100 has been parked (step S202). At this time, it is assumed that the driver parks the vehicle 100 in accordance with a message from the vehicle 100. When the travel_ECU 110 receives a signal from the vehicle speed sensor 130 indicating that the speed (vehicle speed) of the vehicle 100 has changed from a non-zero value to zero, the travel_ECU 110 determines that parking of the vehicle 100 has been detected (step S202; Y). When the travel_ECU 110 receives a vehicle travel signal (a signal other than zero speed) and a vehicle parking signal (a signal indicating zero speed) from the vehicle speed sensor 130 in succession in this order, the travel_ECU 110 determines that parking of the vehicle 100 has been detected. The travel_ECU 110 may determine that parking of the vehicle 100 has been detected, for example, using a parking signal of a parking brake instead of or in addition to the signal of the speed (vehicle speed) of the vehicle 100. At this time, the parking signal of the parking brake serves as the vehicle parking signal. The parking signal of the parking brake can be obtained, for example, by a sensor that detects the state of the parking brake.

[0037] The traveling_ECU 110 further determines whether the vehicle 100 has parked in a predetermined parking area based on the signal obtained from the GNSS sensor 120 and the map information obtained from the road map DB 140 (step S203). As a result, if the vehicle 100 has parked in the predetermined parking area (step S203; Y), the traveling_ECU 110 determines that the signal indicating that the vehicle 100 has parked in the predetermined parking area is the user's intention to request the start of proposal α2 (coaching of the driving assistance system), and performs processing necessary for executing proposal α2. Specifically, the traveling_ECU 110 reads a tutorial video of the driving assistance system from the storage unit of the vehicle 100 or a data server device on the network, and transmits (distributes) the video to the terminal device 200 via the communication device 170 (step S204). The terminal device 200 plays the tutorial video transmitted (distributed) from the vehicle 100 (communication device 170). The driver can learn about the driving assistance system through the tutorial video played on the terminal device 200.

[0038] The traveling_ECU 110 may output a tutorial video of the driving assistance system to the CP_ECU 150. In this case, the CP_ECU 150 outputs the tutorial video obtained from the traveling_ECU 110 to the center panel display 166. The center panel display 166 plays the tutorial video, and the speaker 167 outputs audio corresponding to the tutorial video displayed on the center panel display 166.

[0039] When the transmission (distribution) of the tutorial video is completed or the playback of the tutorial video on the terminal device 200 is completed, the traveling_ECU 110 generates a proposal (proposal α1) for using the driving assistance system again and outputs it to the CP_ECU 150 (step S205).

[0040] The CP_ECU 150 outputs a video signal including the proposal α1 acquired from the traveling_ECU 110 to the center panel display 166, and outputs an audio signal corresponding to the proposal α1 to the speaker 167. The center panel display 166 displays the video including the proposal α1, and the speaker 167 outputs audio corresponding to the proposal α1 while the video including the proposal α1 is being displayed on the center panel display 166.

[0041] The driver inputs a response β1 to a proposal α1 from the vehicle 100 via the HMI 160. The driver inputs the response β1, for example, by operating the center panel display 166. When the response β1 is input, the center panel display 166 outputs the input response β1 to the CP_ECU 150. When the response β1 is input, the CP_ECU 150 outputs the input response β1 to the traveling_ECU 110.

[0042] The traveling_ECU 110 determines whether the response β1 is a rejection of the proposal α1 (step S206). As a result, if the response β1 is an acceptance of the proposal α1 (step S206; N), the traveling_ECU 110 executes processing required to implement the driving assistance system corresponding to the proposal α1 (step S207). The traveling_ECU 110 selects, for example, a leading vehicle following mode, a lane keeping mode, or an autonomous driving mode as the driving mode, and executes processing according to the selected driving mode.

[0043] On the other hand, if the response β1 is a rejection of the proposal α1 (step S206; Y), the driving_ECU 110 executes the processing required to send an email inviting the terminal device 200 to a trial session at a dealer for the rejected driving assistance system (step S208). In this way, the use of unused driving assistance systems is promoted.

[0044] [effect] Next, the effects of vehicle 100 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure will be described.

[0045] In this embodiment, if a rejection response is received in response to a proposal to use a driving assistance system, coaching by the driving assistance system is proposed, and if an acceptance response is received in response to the proposal to use the driving assistance system, the processing required for coaching is performed in accordance with the input user's intention, thereby promoting the use of unused driving assistance systems.

[0046] In this embodiment, when a signal indicating that the vehicle 100 has parked in a predetermined parking area is acquired, the acquisition of such a signal is interpreted as a user's intention to request the start of coaching from the driving assistance system, and processing required to execute coaching from the driving assistance system is performed. This makes it possible to promote the use of unused driving assistance systems while ensuring the safety of the vehicle 100.

[0047] In this embodiment, when the response β2 is an acceptance of the proposal α2, the travel_ECU 110 may determine that the response β2 is a request from the user to start coaching of the driving assistance system, and may perform processing necessary for executing coaching of the driving assistance system. Even in this case, it is possible to promote the use of unused driving assistance systems.

[0048] In this embodiment, processing required to deliver a coaching video (tutorial video) is executed to the center panel display 166 or the terminal device 200. This allows the driver to learn about unused driving assistance systems through the coaching video (tutorial video).

[0049] In this embodiment, a message is generated to prompt the vehicle 100 to park in a predetermined parking area, and whether the vehicle 100 is parked in the predetermined area is monitored based on a signal obtained from the GNSS sensor 120 and map information obtained from the road map DB 140. This ensures the safety of the vehicle 100 while promoting the use of unused driving assistance systems.

[0050] In this embodiment, if proposal α2 (coaching for the driving assistance system) is rejected, the process required to send an email informing the driver of proposal α2 or an email informing the driver of a trial session for the driving assistance system at a dealer is executed to the terminal device 200. By continuing to provide such guidance, it is possible to motivate the driver to eventually use the unused driving assistance system.

[0051] <2. Second embodiment> [Configuration example] Next, a vehicle 300 according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure will be described. Fig. 5 illustrates an example of functional blocks of the vehicle 300 according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure. The vehicle 300 includes, for example, a travel_ECU 180, a GNSS sensor 120, a speed sensor 130, a road map DB 140, a CP_ECU 150, an HMI 160, and a communication device 170, as shown in Fig. 5.

[0052] The travel_ECU 180 is capable of controlling the vehicle 300 according to, for example, a driving mode. Examples of the driving modes include a driving control mode and a simulation mode. The driving control mode is a driving mode that supports the driver of the vehicle 300 in driving operations by the driver of the vehicle 300 to increase the safety of pedestrians, vehicles, and the like around the vehicle 300 (host vehicle). Examples of the driving control mode include a preceding vehicle following mode, a lane keeping mode, and an autonomous driving mode. The simulation mode is a mode that supports the driver of the vehicle 300 to promote use of the driving control mode. Examples of the simulation mode include an animated video simulation mode. Detailed processing content in the animated video simulation mode will be described in detail later.

[0053] A module consisting of the travel_ECU 180 and the CP_ECU 150 corresponds to a specific example of a "driving assistance device" according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The travel_ECU 180 corresponds to a specific example of a "processing unit" according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The CP_ECU 150 corresponds to a specific example of a "communication unit" according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0054] [Operation] Next, promotion of use of unused driving assistance systems in vehicle 300 will be described with reference to Fig. 6. Fig. 6 shows an example of a processing procedure required for coaching of unused driving assistance systems in step S107 of Fig. 3. Each step shown in Fig. 6 will be described below.

[0055] For example, in order to ensure the safety of the vehicle 300 when providing coaching, the traveling_ECU 180 first generates a message urging the driver to park the vehicle 300 and outputs the message to the CP_ECU 150 (step S201). The CP_ECU 150 outputs a video signal including the message acquired from the traveling_ECU 180 to the center panel display 166, and also outputs an audio signal corresponding to the message to the speaker 167. The center panel display 166 displays the video including the message, and the speaker 167 outputs the audio corresponding to the message while the video including the message is being displayed on the center panel display 166.

[0056] Next, the travel_ECU 180 monitors the input of a signal indicating that parking of the vehicle 300 has been detected, and continues to determine whether or not the vehicle 300 has been parked (step S202). At this time, it is assumed that the driver parks the vehicle 300 in accordance with a message from the vehicle 300. When the travel_ECU 180 acquires a signal indicating that the speed (vehicle speed) of the vehicle 300 has become zero from the vehicle speed sensor 130, the travel_ECU 180 determines that parking of the vehicle 300 has been detected (step S202; Y).

[0057] The traveling_ECU 180 further determines whether the vehicle 300 has been parked in a predetermined parking area based on the signal obtained from the GNSS sensor 120 and the map information obtained from the road map DB 140 (step S203). As a result, if the vehicle 300 has been parked in the predetermined parking area (step S203; Y), the traveling_ECU 180 determines that the acquisition of the signal indicating that the vehicle 300 has been parked in the predetermined parking area is a user's intention to request the start of proposal α2 (coaching of the driving assistance system), and performs processing required to execute proposal α2.

[0058] Specifically, the traveling_ECU 180 first sets the moving image simulation mode as the driving mode (step S209). This allows the traveling_ECU 180 to reflect the driver's operation of the HMI 160 in a tutorial moving image (described later) without reflecting it in the actual traveling of the vehicle 300. In other words, even if the driver operates, for example, the switch 162 or the accelerator pedal 163, it cannot have any effect on the traveling of the vehicle 300.

[0059] Next, the traveling_ECU 180 reads out the tutorial video of the driving assistance system from the storage unit of the vehicle 300 or a data server device on the network, and transmits (distributes) it to the terminal device 200 via the communication device 170 (step S210). The terminal device 200 plays the tutorial video transmitted (distributed) from the vehicle 300 (communication device 170). The driver can learn about the unused driving assistance system through the tutorial video played on the terminal device 200.

[0060] The traveling_ECU 180 may output a tutorial video of the driving assistance system to the CP_ECU 150. In this case, the CP_ECU 150 outputs the tutorial video obtained from the traveling_ECU 180 to the center panel display 166. The center panel display 166 plays the tutorial video, and the speaker 167 outputs audio corresponding to the tutorial video displayed on the center panel display 166.

[0061] The traveling_ECU 180 monitors the input of a signal (operation signal) indicating that an operation of the HMI 160 required for using the driving assistance system has been detected, and continues to determine whether or not an operation of the HMI 160 required for using the driving assistance system has been performed (step S211). At this time, it is assumed that the driver operates the HMI 160 required for using the driving assistance system in accordance with a message included in the tutorial video. When the traveling_ECU 180 acquires a signal indicating that an operation of the HMI 160 has been detected (step S211; Y), it generates a tutorial video including a response to the detected operation, and executes processing required to transmit (distribute) the generated tutorial video (step S212).

[0062] The traveling_ECU 180 transmits (distributes) a tutorial video including a response to the detected operation to the terminal device 200 via the communication device 170. The terminal device 200 plays back the tutorial video transmitted (distributed) from the vehicle 300 (communication device 170). The traveling_ECU 180 may output the tutorial video including the response to the detected operation to the CP_ECU 150. In this case, the CP_ECU 150 outputs the tutorial video obtained from the traveling_ECU 180 to the center panel display 166. The center panel display 166 plays back the tutorial video, and the speaker 167 outputs audio corresponding to the tutorial video displayed on the center panel display 166. The driver can experience how to use the driving assistance system through the tutorial video played back on the terminal device 200 or the center panel display 166.

[0063] Travel_ECU 180 executes steps S205 to S208 described above when transmission (distribution) of the tutorial video is completed or when playback of the tutorial video is completed on terminal device 200. In this way, utilization of unused driving assistance systems is promoted.

[0064] [effect] Next, effects of the vehicle 300 according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure will be described.

[0065] In this embodiment, if a rejection response is received in response to a proposal to use a driving assistance system, coaching by the driving assistance system is proposed, and if an acceptance response is received in response to the proposal to use the driving assistance system, the processing required for coaching is performed in accordance with the input user's intention, thereby promoting the use of unused driving assistance systems.

[0066] In this embodiment, when a signal indicating that the vehicle 300 has parked in a predetermined parking area is acquired, the acquisition of such a signal is interpreted as a user's intention to request the start of coaching from the driving assistance system, and processing required to execute coaching from the driving assistance system is performed. This makes it possible to promote the use of unused driving assistance systems while ensuring the safety of the vehicle 300.

[0067] In this embodiment, when the response β2 is an acceptance of the proposal α2, the travel_ECU 180 may determine that the response β2 is a request from the user to start coaching of the driving assistance system, and may perform processing necessary for executing coaching of the driving assistance system. Even in this case, it is possible to promote the use of unused driving assistance systems.

[0068] In this embodiment, processing required to deliver a coaching video (tutorial video) is executed to the center panel display 166 or the terminal device 200. This allows the driver to learn about unused driving assistance systems through the coaching video (tutorial video).

[0069] In this embodiment, as a process required for coaching, the vehicle 300 is set to video simulation mode, and when a signal indicating that an operation of the HMI 160 required for using the driving assistance system has been detected is acquired, a process required for delivering a video (tutorial video) including a response to the detected operation is executed. This allows the driver to experience how to use an unused driving assistance system through the tutorial video played on the terminal device 200 or the center panel display 166.

[0070] In this embodiment, a message is generated to prompt the driver to park the vehicle 300 in a predetermined parking area, and whether the vehicle 300 is parked in the predetermined area is monitored based on a signal obtained from the GNSS sensor 120 and map information obtained from the road map DB 140. This ensures the safety of the vehicle 300 while promoting the use of unused driving assistance systems.

[0071] In this embodiment, if proposal α2 (coaching for the driving assistance system) is rejected, the process required to send an email informing the driver of proposal α2 or an email informing the driver of a trial session for the driving assistance system at a dealer is executed to the terminal device 200. By continuing to provide such guidance, it is possible to motivate the driver to eventually use the unused driving assistance system.

[0072] <3. Third Embodiment> [Configuration example] Next, a vehicle 400 according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure will be described. Fig. 7 illustrates an example of functional blocks of the vehicle 400 according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure. The vehicle 400 includes, for example, a travel_ECU 190, a GNSS sensor 120, a speed sensor 130, a road map DB 140, a CP_ECU 150, an HMI 160, and a communication device 170, as shown in Fig. 7.

[0073] The travel_ECU 190 is capable of controlling the vehicle 400 according to, for example, a driving mode. Examples of the driving modes include a driving control mode and a simulation mode. The driving control mode is a driving mode that supports the driver of the vehicle 400 in driving operations by the driver of the vehicle 400 to increase the safety of pedestrians, vehicles, and the like around the vehicle 400 (host vehicle). Examples of the driving control mode include a preceding vehicle following mode, a lane keeping mode, and an autonomous driving mode. The simulation mode is a mode that supports the driver of the vehicle 400 to promote use of the driving control mode. Examples of the simulation mode include an actual vehicle simulation mode. Detailed processing content in the actual vehicle simulation mode will be described in detail later.

[0074] A module consisting of the travel_ECU 190 and the CP_ECU 150 corresponds to a specific example of a "driving assistance device" according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The travel_ECU 190 corresponds to a specific example of a "processing unit" according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The CP_ECU 150 corresponds to a specific example of a "communication unit" according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0075] [Operation] Next, promotion of use of the driving assistance system in vehicle 400 will be described with reference to Fig. 8. Fig. 8 shows an example of a processing procedure required for coaching by the driving assistance system in step S107 of Fig. 3. Each step shown in Fig. 8 will be described below.

[0076] For example, in order to ensure the safety of vehicle 400 when providing coaching, traveling_ECU 190 first generates a message urging the driver to park vehicle 400 and outputs the message to CP_ECU 150 (step S201). CP_ECU 150 outputs a video signal including the message acquired from traveling_ECU 190 to center panel display 166, and also outputs an audio signal corresponding to the message to speaker 167. Center panel display 166 displays the video including the message, and speaker 167 outputs audio corresponding to the message while the video including the message is being displayed on center panel display 166.

[0077] Next, the travel_ECU 190 monitors the input of a signal indicating that parking of the vehicle 400 has been detected, and continues to determine whether or not the vehicle 400 has been parked (step S202). At this time, it is assumed that the driver parks the vehicle 400 in accordance with a message from the vehicle 400. When the travel_ECU 190 acquires a signal indicating that the speed (vehicle speed) of the vehicle 400 has become zero from the vehicle speed sensor 130, the travel_ECU 190 determines that parking of the vehicle 400 has been detected (step S202; Y).

[0078] The traveling_ECU 190 further determines whether the vehicle 400 has been parked in a predetermined parking area based on the signal obtained from the GNSS sensor 120 and the map information obtained from the road map DB 140 (step S203). As a result, if the vehicle 400 has been parked in the predetermined parking area (step S203; Y), the traveling_ECU 190 determines that the acquisition of the signal indicating that the vehicle 400 has been parked in the predetermined parking area is a user's intention to request the start of proposal α2 (coaching of the driving assistance system), and performs processing required to execute proposal α2.

[0079] Specifically, the traveling_ECU 190 first sets the actual vehicle simulation mode as the driving mode (step S213). This allows the traveling_ECU 190 to cause the vehicle 400 to respond to the driver's operation of the HMI 160 without reflecting the driver's operation of the HMI 160 on the actual traveling of the vehicle 400. In other words, even if the driver operates, for example, the switch 162 or the accelerator pedal 163, this does not have any effect on the traveling of the vehicle 400.

[0080] Next, the traveling_ECU 190 reads out the tutorial video of the driving assistance system from the storage unit of the vehicle 400 or a data server device on the network, and transmits (distributes) it to the terminal device 200 via the communication device 170 (step S214). The terminal device 200 plays the tutorial video transmitted (distributed) from the vehicle 400 (communication device 170). The driver can learn about the driving assistance system through the tutorial video played on the terminal device 200.

[0081] The traveling_ECU 190 may output a tutorial video of the driving assistance system to the CP_ECU 150. In this case, the CP_ECU 150 outputs the tutorial video obtained from the traveling_ECU 190 to the center panel display 166. The center panel display 166 plays back the tutorial video, and the speaker 167 outputs audio corresponding to the tutorial video displayed on the center panel display 166.

[0082] The traveling_ECU 190 monitors the input of a signal indicating that an operation of the HMI 160 required for using the driving assistance system has been detected, and continues to determine whether or not the operation of the HMI 160 required for using the driving assistance system has been performed (step S215). Assume that the driver operates the HMI 160 required for using the driving assistance system in accordance with a message included in the tutorial video. When the traveling_ECU 190 acquires a signal indicating that an operation of the HMI 160 has been detected (step S215; Y), the traveling_ECU 190 executes processing required for the vehicle 400 to execute a response to the detected operation without reflecting it in the actual driving of the vehicle 400 (step S216). For example, when the accelerator pedal 163 is operated, the traveling_ECU 190 generates an accelerator sound and outputs it to the HMI 160 while the vehicle 400 is parked without driving the vehicle 400. The speaker 167 reproduces the input accelerator sound.

[0083] The traveling_ECU 190 executes the above-described steps S205 to S208 when the transmission (distribution) of the tutorial video is completed or the playback of the tutorial video is completed on the terminal device 200. In this way, the use of unused driving assistance systems is promoted.

[0084] [effect] Next, the effects of vehicle 400 according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure will be described.

[0085] In this embodiment, if a rejection response is received in response to a proposal to use a driving assistance system, coaching by the driving assistance system is proposed, and if an acceptance response is received in response to the proposal to use the driving assistance system, the processing required for coaching is performed in accordance with the input user's intention, thereby promoting the use of unused driving assistance systems.

[0086] In this embodiment, when a signal indicating that the vehicle 400 has parked in a predetermined parking area is acquired, the acquisition of such a signal is interpreted as a user's intention to request the start of coaching from the driving assistance system, and the processing required to execute coaching from the driving assistance system is carried out. This makes it possible to promote the use of unused driving assistance systems while ensuring the safety of the vehicle 400.

[0087] In this embodiment, when the response β2 is an acceptance of the proposal α2, the travel_ECU 190 may determine that the response β2 represents the user's intention to request the start of coaching by the driving assistance system, and may perform processing necessary for executing coaching by the driving assistance system. Even in this case, it is possible to promote the use of unused driving assistance systems.

[0088] In this embodiment, processing required to deliver a coaching video (tutorial video) is executed to the center panel display 166 or the terminal device 200. This allows the driver to learn about unused driving assistance systems through the coaching video (tutorial video).

[0089] In this embodiment, as processing required for coaching, vehicle 400 is set to an actual vehicle simulation mode, and when a signal indicating that an operation of HMI 160 required for using the driving assistance system has been detected is acquired, processing required for vehicle 400 to execute a response to the detected operation without reflecting it in the actual driving of vehicle 400 is executed. This allows the driver to experience how to use an unused driving assistance system through the response reproduced in vehicle 400.

[0090] In this embodiment, a message is generated to prompt the vehicle 400 to park in a predetermined parking area, and whether the vehicle 400 is parked in the predetermined area is monitored based on a signal obtained from the GNSS sensor 120 and map information obtained from the road map DB 140. This ensures the safety of the vehicle 400 while promoting the use of unused driving assistance systems.

[0091] In this embodiment, if proposal α2 (coaching for the driving assistance system) is rejected, the process required to send an email informing the driver of proposal α2 or an email informing the driver of a trial session for the driving assistance system at a dealer is executed to the terminal device 200. By continuing to provide such guidance, it is possible to motivate the driver to eventually use the unused driving assistance system.

[0092] The effects described in this specification are merely examples, and the effects of the present disclosure are not limited to the effects described in this specification. Therefore, other effects may be obtained with respect to the present disclosure.

[0093] Furthermore, the present disclosure may take the following aspects. (1) a processing unit capable of generating request data for requesting input from a user and processing response data in response to the request data; a communication unit capable of transmitting the request data to a user interface and receiving the response data from the user interface; Equipped with The processing unit generating coaching proposal data for the driving assistance system as the request data when use refusal data for an unused driving assistance system is acquired as the response data; When coaching consent data of the driving assistance system is acquired as the response data, processing required for coaching is performed in accordance with the input intention of the user. It is possible to carry out Driving assistance device. (2) Further provided is a signal acquisition unit capable of acquiring a vehicle running signal and a vehicle parking signal, When the processing unit acquires the vehicle driving signal and the vehicle parking signal in succession in this order via the signal acquisition unit, the processing unit determines that acquisition of the vehicle parking signal indicates a user's intention to request the start of the coaching, and is capable of performing processing necessary for the coaching. A driving assistance device as described in (1). (3) When the control unit receives a coaching start request as the response data, the control unit determines that the request is the user's intention and is able to perform the processing required for the coaching. A driving assistance device as described in (1). (4) The processing unit is capable of executing processing necessary for the coaching, such as processing necessary for delivering coaching videos to a display device of the vehicle or a terminal device of the driver. A driving assistance device according to any one of (1) to (3). (5) a signal acquisition unit capable of acquiring a second signal indicating that an operation of an in-vehicle device required for use of the driving assistance system has been detected; The processing unit is capable of executing processing necessary for the coaching, such as setting the vehicle in a simulation mode and, when the vehicle driving signal and the vehicle parking signal are acquired successively in this order via the signal acquisition unit, executing processing necessary for delivering a video including a response to the detected operation. A driving assistance device according to (1) or (3). (6) the signal processing unit is capable of acquiring an operation signal for an in-vehicle device required for use of the driving assistance system, The processing unit is capable of setting the vehicle to a simulation mode as a process necessary for the coaching, and when the operation signal is acquired via the signal acquisition unit, executing a process necessary for delivering a video including a response to the operation of the in-vehicle device. (2) A driving assistance device according to the present invention. (7) a signal acquisition unit capable of acquiring an operation signal for an in-vehicle device required for use of the driving assistance system; The processing unit is capable of setting the vehicle to a simulation mode as a process necessary for the coaching, and when the operation signal is acquired via the signal acquisition unit, executing a process necessary for the vehicle to respond to the operation of the in-vehicle device. A driving assistance device according to (1) or (3). (8) the signal processing unit is capable of acquiring an operation signal for an in-vehicle device required for use of the driving assistance system, The processing unit is capable of setting the vehicle to a simulation mode as a process necessary for the coaching, and when the operation signal is acquired via the signal acquisition unit, executing a process necessary for the vehicle to respond to the operation of the in-vehicle device. (2) A driving assistance device according to the present invention. (9) a signal acquisition unit capable of acquiring a position signal of the vehicle; When the processing unit acquires the coaching consent data, the processing unit generates a message prompting the driver to park the vehicle in a predetermined parking area, outputs the message to the user interface unit via the communication unit, and is capable of monitoring whether the vehicle is parked in the predetermined area based on the position signal acquired via the signal acquisition unit. A driving assistance device according to (1) or (3). (10) The signal processing unit is capable of acquiring a position signal of the vehicle, When the processing unit acquires the coaching consent data, the processing unit generates a message prompting the driver to park the vehicle in a predetermined parking area, outputs the message to the user interface unit via the communication unit, and is capable of monitoring whether the vehicle is parked in the predetermined area based on the position signal acquired via the signal acquisition unit. (2) A driving assistance device according to the present invention. (11) When the processing unit receives coaching refusal data of the driving assistance system as the response data, the processing unit is capable of executing processing required to send an email informing the driver of coaching of the driving assistance system or an email informing the driver of a trial session of the driving assistance system at a dealer to the terminal device of the driver of the vehicle. A driving assistance device according to any one of (1) to (3). (12) a processing unit capable of generating request data for requesting input from a user and processing response data in response to the request data; a communication unit capable of transmitting the request data to a user interface and receiving the response data from the user interface; Equipped with The processing unit generating coaching proposal data for the driving assistance system as the request data when use refusal data for an unused driving assistance system is acquired as the response data; When coaching consent data of the driving assistance system is acquired as the response data, processing required for coaching is performed in accordance with the input intention of the user. It is possible to carry out vehicle.

[0094] The run_ECUs 110, 180, 190 and the CP_ECU 140 may be implemented by circuitry including at least one semiconductor integrated circuit, such as at least one processor (e.g., a central processing unit (CPU)), at least one application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), and / or at least one field-programmable gate array (FPGA). The at least one processor may be configured to execute all or a portion of the various functions of the run_ECUs 110, 180, 190 and the CP_ECU 140 by reading instructions from at least one non-transitory, tangible computer-readable medium. Such media may take various forms, including, but not limited to, various magnetic media such as hard disks, various optical media such as CDs or DVDs, and various semiconductor memories (i.e., semiconductor circuits) such as volatile or non-volatile memory. Volatile memory may include DRAM and SRAM. Non-volatile memory may include ROM and NVRAM. An ASIC is an integrated circuit (IC) specialized to execute all or part of the various functions of the driving_ECUs 110, 180, 190 and the CP_ECU 140. An FPGA is an integrated circuit designed to be configurable after manufacture to execute all or part of the various functions of the driving_ECUs 110, 180, 190 and the CP_ECU 140. [Explanation of symbols]

[0095] 100, 300, 400...vehicle, 110, 180, 190...driving_ECU, 120...GNSS sensor, 130...speed sensor, 140...road map DB, 150...CP_ECU, 160...HMI, 161...steering wheel, 162...switch, 163...accelerator pedal, 164...brake pedal, 165...meter panel display, 166...center panel display, 167...speaker, 170...communication device, 200...terminal device.

Claims

1. a processing unit capable of generating request data for requesting input from a user and processing response data in response to the request data; a communication unit capable of transmitting the request data to a user interface and receiving the response data from the user interface; Equipped with The processing unit generating coaching proposal data for the driving assistance system as the request data when use refusal data for an unused driving assistance system is acquired as the response data; When coaching consent data of the driving assistance system is acquired as the response data, processing required for coaching is performed in accordance with the input intention of the user. It is possible to carry out Driving assistance device.

2. Further provided is a signal acquisition unit capable of acquiring a vehicle running signal and a vehicle parking signal, When the processing unit acquires the vehicle driving signal and the vehicle parking signal in succession in this order via the signal acquisition unit, the processing unit determines that acquisition of the vehicle parking signal indicates a user's intention to request the start of the coaching, and is capable of performing processing necessary for the coaching. The driving assistance device according to claim 1 .

3. The processing unit is capable of executing processing necessary for the coaching, such as processing necessary for delivering coaching videos to a display device of the vehicle or a terminal device of the driver. The driving assistance device according to claim 1 or 2.

4. a signal acquisition unit capable of acquiring a second signal indicating that an operation of an in-vehicle device required for use of the driving assistance system has been detected; The processing unit is capable of executing processing necessary for the coaching, such as setting the vehicle in a simulation mode and, when the vehicle driving signal and the vehicle parking signal are acquired successively in this order via the signal acquisition unit, executing processing necessary for delivering a video including a response to the detected operation. The driving assistance device according to claim 1 .

5. a processing unit capable of generating request data for requesting input from a user and processing response data in response to the request data; a communication unit capable of transmitting the request data to a user interface and receiving the response data from the user interface; Equipped with The processing unit generating coaching proposal data for the driving assistance system as the request data when use refusal data for an unused driving assistance system is acquired as the response data; When coaching consent data of the driving assistance system is acquired as the response data, processing required for coaching is performed in accordance with the input intention of the user. It is possible to carry out vehicle.

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