Driving skill evaluation device and vehicle

Abstract

To provide a driving skill evaluation device and a vehicle capable of smoothly supporting driving using space recognition capability.SOLUTION: A driving skill evaluation device can perform the following three processes of: (1) performing a first process of announcing a suggestion to perform a driving training when road data ahead of a traveling vehicle and position / velocity data for the vehicle and traffic participants ahead of the vehicle meet a condition suitable for performing the driving training; (2) performing a second process of announcing a specific content of the driving training when a signal indicating approval of execution of the driving training is acquired as a response to the first process; and (3) performing a third process of evaluating the driving skill of the driver of the vehicle based on speed data and acceleration data of the vehicle acquired by an acquisition unit after the start of the second process and announcing the content of the evaluation obtained as a result of the evaluation.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] It is known that preventing the shrinkage of the entorhinal cortex and its surrounding areas, which occurs in the earliest stages of dementia, is effective in preventing dementia. The entorhinal cortex controls spatial perception, and improving spatial recognition ability may prevent the shrinkage of the entorhinal cortex. For example, driving a vehicle under specific driving conditions and stimulating the entorhinal cortex may prevent the shrinkage of the entorhinal cortex. Technologies for evaluating driving skills are disclosed, for example, in Patent Documents 1 and 2. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2015-219830 [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2006-243248 Summary of the Invention

[0004] A driving skill evaluation device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes an acquisition unit and a processing unit. The acquisition unit is capable of acquiring road data ahead of a traveling vehicle and position and speed data for the vehicle and traffic participants ahead of the vehicle. The processing unit is capable of performing driving training based on the road data and position and speed data acquired by the acquisition unit. The processing unit is capable of performing the following three processes. (A1) A first process is performed to determine whether road data and position / speed data satisfy conditions suitable for performing driving training, and when the traffic data and position / speed data satisfy the conditions, to notify a recommendation to perform driving training. (A2) When a signal indicating approval for the execution of the driving training is received as a response to the first process, a second process is performed to notify the driver of the specific details of the driving training. (A3) Performing a third process of evaluating the driving skill of the driver of the vehicle based on the speed data and acceleration data of the vehicle acquired by the acquisition unit after starting the second process, and notifying the content of the evaluation obtained as a result.

[0005] A vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes a driving skill evaluation device. The driving skill evaluation device includes an acquisition unit and a processing unit. The acquisition unit is capable of acquiring road data ahead of the vehicle while the vehicle is traveling, and position and speed data for the vehicle and traffic participants ahead of the vehicle. The processing unit is capable of performing driving training based on the road data and position and speed data acquired by the acquisition unit. The processing unit is capable of performing the following three processes. (B1) performing a first process of determining whether road data and position / speed data satisfy conditions suitable for performing driving training, and notifying a suggestion to perform driving training when the traffic data and position / speed data satisfy the conditions; (B2) When a signal indicating approval for the execution of the driving training is received as a response to the first process, a second process is performed to notify the driver of the specific details of the driving training. (B3) Performing a third process of evaluating the driving skill of the driver of the vehicle based on the vehicle speed data and acceleration data acquired by the acquisition unit after starting the second process, and notifying the content of the evaluation obtained as a result. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0006] 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.

[0007] [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 showing an example of the exterior of the area around the driver's seat in the vehicle of FIG. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a view ahead of the vehicle when viewed from the driver's seat of the vehicle of FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining an example of a procedure for evaluating driving skills in the control unit of FIG. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a change over time in the measured value of the deceleration of the vehicle of FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of functional blocks of a vehicle according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining an example of a procedure for evaluating driving skills in the control unit of FIG. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of the change over time in the measured value of the speed of the vehicle in FIG. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of functional blocks of a vehicle according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining an example of a procedure for evaluating driving skills in the control unit of FIG. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of the change over time in the measured value of the speed of the vehicle shown in FIG. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a modified example of the functional blocks of the vehicle shown in FIG. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining an example of a procedure for evaluating driving skills in the control unit of FIG. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a modified example of the functional blocks of the vehicle shown in FIG. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a diagram for explaining an example of a procedure for evaluating driving skills in the control unit of FIG. [Figure 16]FIG. 16 is a diagram showing a modified example of the functional blocks of the vehicle shown in FIG. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a diagram for explaining an example of a procedure for evaluating driving skills in the control unit of FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] Preventing the shrinkage of the entorhinal cortex and its surrounding areas, which occurs in the earliest stages of dementia, is known to be effective in preventing dementia. The entorhinal cortex controls spatial awareness, and improving spatial awareness may prevent entorhinal cortex shrinkage. For example, in everyday life, driving a vehicle is one of the many situations in which spatial awareness is utilized. In particular, driving a vehicle under certain driving conditions may stimulate the entorhinal cortex more, potentially preventing entorhinal cortex shrinkage.

[0009] In order to stimulate the entorhinal cortex, it is necessary to create driving conditions that utilize the spatial recognition ability present in the entorhinal cortex. Examples of such driving conditions include the following three: (1) On a road with a traffic light ahead, stop at a constant deceleration in front of the traffic light (2) Driving at a constant speed on a road with a changing gradient (3) Driving at a constant speed on roads with varying curvature

[0010] However, roads that satisfy the above driving conditions are not found everywhere, and it is not easy for drivers to know such roads in advance and then drive using their spatial recognition ability. It is desirable to provide a driving skill evaluation device and a vehicle that can smoothly support driving using spatial recognition ability.

[0011] 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.

[0012] The present disclosure will be described in the following order. 1. First embodiment (FIGS. 1 to 5) An example of driving that utilizes spatial awareness by stopping at a constant deceleration 2. Second embodiment (FIGS. 6 to 8) By driving at a constant speed on a road with a changing gradient An example of driving using spatial awareness 3. Third embodiment (FIGS. 9 to 11) By driving at a constant speed on a road with varying curvature An example of driving using spatial awareness 4. Modification of the First Embodiment (FIGS. 12 and 13) 5. Modification of the Second Embodiment (FIGS. 14 and 15) 6. Modification of the Third Embodiment (FIGS. 16 and 17)

[0013] <1. First embodiment> [composition] A vehicle 1 according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure will be described. Fig. 1 illustrates an example of functional blocks of the vehicle 1 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Fig. 1, the vehicle 1 includes, for example, a sensor unit 10, a communication unit 20, an HMI (human-machine interface) 30, a storage unit 40, a control unit 50, a prime mover 60, a brake 70, and an EPS (electric power steering) motor 80.

[0014] The sensor unit 10 is configured to include various sensors mounted on the vehicle 1. The sensor unit 10 is configured to include, for example, an accelerator opening sensor, a vehicle speed sensor, an acceleration sensor, an angular velocity sensor, a steering angle sensor, a steering torque sensor, and a brake torque sensor. The sensor unit 10 may include sensors other than those described above.

[0015] The accelerator opening sensor is capable of detecting the accelerator opening from the depression amount of the accelerator pedal 33, which will be described later. The accelerator opening sensor is capable of outputting time-series data (accelerator opening data) regarding the detected accelerator opening to the control unit 50.

[0016] The vehicle speed sensor is capable of detecting the speed (vehicle speed) of the vehicle 1. The vehicle speed sensor is capable of outputting time-series data (vehicle speed data) about the detected vehicle speed to the control unit 50. The acceleration sensor is capable of detecting acceleration or deceleration applied to the vehicle 1. The acceleration sensor is capable of outputting time-series data (acceleration data) about the detected acceleration in three directions to the control unit 50. When the acceleration sensor detects deceleration, it is capable of outputting a negative value as the acceleration data. In other words, when the acceleration data has a negative value, the acceleration data is deceleration data. The angular velocity sensor is capable of detecting the angular velocity of the vehicle 1. The angular velocity sensor is capable of outputting time-series data (angular velocity data) about the detected three angular velocities (yaw angular velocity, roll angular velocity, and pitch angular velocity) to the control unit 50.

[0017] The steering angle sensor is capable of detecting the steering angle (steering angle) of the steering wheel 31 described below. The steering angle sensor is capable of outputting time-series data (steering angle data) about the detected steering angle to the control unit 50. The steering torque sensor is capable of detecting the steering torque generated by the driver's steering wheel operation. The steering torque sensor is capable of outputting time-series data (steering torque data) about the detected steering torque to the control unit 50. The brake torque sensor is capable of detecting the braking force (torque of the brake 70) in response to the brake pressure of the brake pedal 34 described below. The brake torque sensor is capable of outputting time-series data (braking force data) about the detected braking force to the control unit 50.

[0018] The sensor unit 10 further includes a stereo camera 11 (see FIG. 2) mounted on the vehicle 1, and a driving environment detection unit. The stereo camera 11 is an autonomous sensor that senses the real space around the vehicle 1. The stereo cameras 11 are, for example, arranged at symmetrical positions on either side of the central part in the width direction of the vehicle 1, and are capable of taking stereo images of the area in front of the vehicle 1 from different viewpoints. The stereo camera 11 is capable of outputting image data Da (a pair of stereo image data) obtained by imaging to the control unit 50.

[0019] The stereo camera 11 is capable of generating distance image data Db calculated from the amount of displacement between corresponding objects based on image data Da (a pair of stereo image data) obtained by capturing images. The driving environment detection unit is capable of, for example, calculating lane markings that divide the road around the vehicle 1 based on the distance image data Db. The driving environment detection unit is also capable of calculating the road curvature of the markings that divide the left and right sides of the road (driving lane) on which the vehicle 1 is traveling, and the width between the left and right markings (vehicle width). The driving environment detection unit is also capable of performing predetermined pattern matching on the distance image data Db to detect lanes and three-dimensional objects such as structures present around the vehicle 1.

[0020] Here, the detection of a three-dimensional object by the driving environment detection unit includes, for example, detecting the type of the three-dimensional object, the distance to the three-dimensional object, the speed of the three-dimensional object, and the relative speed between the three-dimensional object and the vehicle (host vehicle). Examples of three-dimensional objects to be detected include traffic lights, intersections, road signs, stop lines, other vehicles, pedestrians, bicycles, and buildings. Examples of buildings include detached houses, apartment complexes (condominiums), commercial facilities, factories, and signs. The driving environment detection unit is capable of outputting driving environment information around the vehicle 1, including the thus acquired information on the three-dimensional object, to the control unit 50.

[0021] The communication unit 20 can acquire data to supplement data that cannot be obtained from the image data Da and the distance image data Db, for example, through vehicle-to-vehicle communication, road-to-vehicle communication, and satellite communication. The communication unit 20 can output the acquired data to the control unit 50.

[0022] The communication unit 20 is capable of acquiring data (e.g., vehicle position, vehicle speed) obtained by other vehicles, for example, through vehicle-to-vehicle communication. The communication unit 20 is capable of receiving positioning signals transmitted from multiple positioning satellites, for example, through satellite communication.

[0023] The communication unit 20 is capable of acquiring road map data around the vehicle 1 from a control device that is capable of successively integrating and updating road map data transmitted from each vehicle via road-to-vehicle communication and transmitting the updated road map data to each vehicle. The road map data is, for example, made up of highly accurate road map data (dynamic map) and includes static information and quasi-static information that mainly constitute road information, and quasi-dynamic information and dynamic information that mainly constitute traffic information.

[0024] Static information that makes up road information includes, for example, information that requires updates within one month, such as roads, structures on roads, structures around roads, lane information, road surface information, and permanent traffic regulations. "Roads" include, for example, road locations and shapes, intersections, and road attributes (e.g., national roads, prefectural roads, city roads, private roads, priority roads, non-priority roads, general roads, and expressways). "Structures on roads" include, for example, traffic signs, traffic lights, convex mirrors, footbridges, bus stops, and garbage collection stations. "Structures around roads" include, for example, various buildings and parks.

[0025] The quasi-static information that constitutes road information is composed of information that needs to be updated every hour or less, such as traffic regulation information due to road construction or events, wide-area weather information, and congestion forecasts.

[0026] The semi-dynamic information that makes up traffic information is composed of information that requires updates within one minute, such as the actual traffic congestion situation at the time of observation, driving restrictions, temporary driving obstructions such as fallen objects and obstacles, actual accident conditions, and narrow-area weather information.

[0027] The dynamic information that constitutes the traffic information is composed of information that needs to be updated every second, such as information sent and exchanged between moving objects, information on currently displayed traffic signals, information on pedestrians and bicycles at intersections, information on vehicles traveling on roads, etc. Such road map data is maintained and updated periodically until the next information is received from each vehicle, and the updated road map data is transmitted to each vehicle as appropriate via the communication unit 20.

[0028] The HMI 30 is capable of outputting signals generated in accordance with operations by the driver of the vehicle 1 to the control unit 50. The HMI 30 is further capable of providing notifications (for example, audio output, text output, or video output) to the driver of the vehicle 1 by processing signals input from the control unit 50. The HMI 30 is configured to include, for example, a steering wheel 31, switches 32, an accelerator pedal 33, a brake pedal 34, a meter panel display 35, a center panel display 36, a speaker 37, a microphone 38, and the like, as shown in FIG. 2 .

[0029] The switch 32 is, for example, a switch for controlling the blinking of each turn signal. The meter panel display 35 is configured to include, 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 36 is configured to include, for example, a touch-sensitive liquid crystal display panel or an organic EL display panel, and is capable of, for example, performing various settings for the vehicle 1 and displaying information input from the control unit 50. The speaker 37 is capable of outputting information input from the control unit 50 as audio, for example. The microphone 38 is configured to include, for example, a microphone, and is capable of, for example, collecting audio messages uttered by the driver of the vehicle 1, converting the audio into audio signals, and outputting the audio signals to the control unit 50.

[0030] The storage unit 40 is configured, for example, by a non-volatile memory, such as an EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), a flash memory, or a resistance change memory. For example, as shown in Fig. 1, the storage unit 40 stores a road map DB 41. For example, as shown in Fig. 1, the storage unit 40 stores data obtained by calculations performed by a skill evaluation unit 51 (described later).

[0031] The road map DB 41 is a large-capacity storage medium such as an HDD, and stores high-precision road map data (dynamic map). This high-precision road map data includes, for example, static information and quasi-static information that mainly constitute road information, and quasi-dynamic information and dynamic information that mainly constitute traffic information.

[0032] The control unit 50 is capable of controlling the entire vehicle 1. The control unit 30 is, for example, a so-called ECU (Electronic Control Unit) and is configured to include, for example, one or more processors and one or more memories. The control unit 50 may be configured to include, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit). In this case, the control unit 50 is capable of controlling the entire vehicle 1 by, for example, executing a program stored in a storage unit. The control unit 50 corresponds to a specific example of a "driving skill evaluation device" according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] The control unit 50 includes, for example, a locator unit. The locator unit is capable of acquiring the position coordinates of the vehicle 1 based on the positioning signal received through the communication unit 20. The locator unit is capable of estimating the vehicle's position on a road map by map-matching the acquired position coordinates with route map data. Based on the acquired position coordinates of the vehicle 1, the locator unit is capable of acquiring map data of a predetermined range including the vehicle 1 from map data stored in a road map DB (database) 41 (described later).

[0034] In an environment where it is not possible to receive valid positioning signals from positioning satellites due to reduced sensitivity, such as when driving inside a tunnel, the locator unit can switch to autonomous navigation, which estimates the vehicle's position based on the vehicle speed, angular velocity, and longitudinal acceleration detected by sensor unit 10, and estimate the vehicle's position on a road map.

[0035] As described above, the locator unit estimates the position of vehicle 1 (vehicle position) on a road map based on the positioning signal received through communication unit 20 or information detected by sensor unit 10, and is then able to determine the road type, etc. of the road on which vehicle 1 is traveling based on the estimated vehicle position on the road map.

[0036] The locator unit is capable of updating the road map data stored in the road map DB 41 to the latest state using road map data acquired through external communication (roadside-to-vehicle communication and vehicle-to-vehicle communication) via the communication unit 20. This information update is performed not only for static information but also for quasi-static information, quasi-dynamic information, and dynamic information. As a result, the road map data includes road information and traffic information acquired through communication with the outside of the vehicle, and information on moving bodies such as vehicles traveling on roads is updated in approximately real time.

[0037] The locator unit verifies road map data based on the traveling environment information recognized as described above, and is able to update the road map data stored in the road map DB 41 to the latest version. This information update is performed not only on static information, but also on semi-static information, semi-dynamic information, and dynamic information. As a result, information on moving objects such as vehicles traveling on roads recognized as described above is updated in real time.

[0038] The control unit 30 includes a skill evaluation unit 51, for example, as shown in FIG. 1. The skill evaluation unit 51 includes a data acquisition unit 51a, a driving condition detection unit 51b, a training suggestion unit 52c, and an evaluation unit 51d, for example, as shown in FIG. 1. The data acquisition unit 51a corresponds to a specific example of an "acquisition unit" according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The driving condition detection unit 51b, the training suggestion unit 52c, and the evaluation unit 51d correspond to a specific example of a "processing unit" according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0039] The data acquisition unit 51a is capable of periodically acquiring data on the situation or state of the vehicle 1. Specifically, the data acquisition unit 51a is capable of acquiring various data acquired from the sensor unit 10, various data acquired from the outside via the communication unit 20, various data acquired from the HMI 30, and various control signals for various devices of the vehicle 1. The data acquisition unit 51a is further capable of acquiring map data of the surroundings of the vehicle 1 from the road map DB 41 in the storage unit 40.

[0040] The data acquisition unit 51a is capable of acquiring road data ahead of the traveling vehicle 1 based on the acquired data (various data acquired from the sensor unit 10, various data acquired from the outside via the communication unit 20, various data acquired from the HMI 30, and various control signals for various devices of the vehicle 1). The data acquisition unit 51a is capable of acquiring position and speed data for the vehicle 1 and traffic participants ahead of the vehicle 1 based on the acquired data (various data acquired from the sensor unit 10, various data acquired from the outside via the communication unit 20, various data acquired from the HMI 30, and various control signals for various devices of the vehicle 1). The "road data ahead of the traveling vehicle 1" acquired by the data acquisition unit 51a corresponds to a specific example of "road data ahead of the traveling vehicle" according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The "position and speed data for the vehicle 1 and traffic participants ahead of the vehicle 1" acquired by the data acquisition unit 51a corresponds to a specific example of "position and speed data for the vehicle and traffic participants ahead of the vehicle" according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0041] The driving condition detection unit 51b, the training suggestion unit 52c, and the evaluation unit 51d are capable of carrying out driving training based on the road data and position / speed data acquired by the data acquisition unit 51a.

[0042] The driving condition detection unit 51b is capable of determining whether the data obtained by the data acquisition unit 51a (specifically, "road data ahead of the traveling vehicle 1" and "position and speed data on the vehicle 1 and traffic participants ahead of the vehicle 1") satisfy the conditions suitable for carrying out driving training. Here, "conditions suitable for carrying out driving training" refers to the conditions suitable for carrying out training to stop at a constant deceleration, and for example, as shown in FIG. 3, it refers to a traffic situation in which, on a road (roadway L) with a traffic light TLa ahead of the vehicle 1, there are no other traffic participants ahead of the vehicle 1 (between the vehicle 1 and the traffic light TLa), and the illumination color of the traffic light TLa has begun to change from green (go ahead) to yellow (proceed with caution). Note that in FIG. 3, the roadway L is composed of a lane La on which the vehicle 1 is traveling and a lane Lb arranged along the lane La via a center line. The lane La is equipped with the traffic light TLa, and the lane Lb is equipped with the traffic light TLb. In addition, in FIG. 3, a crosswalk CW is provided on the roadway L, and traffic lights TLa and TLb are provided at positions on either side of the crosswalk CW.

[0043] When the data obtained by the data acquisition unit 51a (specifically, "road data ahead of the traveling vehicle 1" and "position and speed data on the vehicle 1 and traffic participants ahead of the vehicle 1") satisfy the conditions suitable for carrying out driving training, the driving condition detection unit 51b is able to use the data obtained by the data acquisition unit 51a (e.g., image data Da and map data) to search for a location to stop the vehicle 1. For example, the driving condition detection unit 51b detects whether or not there is a stop line in front of the traffic light TLa in the data obtained by the data acquisition unit 51a (e.g., image data Da and map data), and if a stop line is detected as a result, the driving condition detection unit 51b is able to set the stop line as a location to stop the vehicle 1.

[0044] The training suggestion unit 52c is capable of performing a process of notifying a driver of a suggestion to perform driving training when the data acquired by the data acquisition unit 51a (specifically, “road data ahead of the traveling vehicle 1” and “position and speed data about the vehicle 1 and traffic participants ahead of the vehicle 1”) meets conditions suitable for performing driving training. This process corresponds to a specific example of “first process” according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The training suggestion unit 52c is capable of outputting a command including message data suggesting the performance of driving training to the notification control unit 52d (described later). For example, the training suggestion unit 52c is capable of generating a message such as “The illumination color of the traffic light TLa ahead has started to change from green to yellow. Would you like to practice stopping the vehicle 1 at a constant deceleration?” based on the data acquired by the data acquisition unit 51a (specifically, “road data ahead of the traveling vehicle 1” and “position and speed data about the vehicle 1 and traffic participants ahead of the vehicle 1”), and outputting a command including the generated message to the notification control unit 52d.

[0045] When the training suggestion unit 52c receives a signal indicating approval of the execution of the driving training from the HMI 30 in response to the first process, the training suggestion unit 52c is capable of performing a process of notifying the user of specific details of the driving training. This process corresponds to a specific example of a "second process" according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The training suggestion unit 52c is capable of outputting a command including message data indicating specific details of the driving training to the notification control unit 52d. The training suggestion unit 52c is capable of outputting a command to the notification control unit 52d, which is a message suggesting a driving method for the road ahead of the vehicle 1, as specific details of the driving training. For example, the training suggestion unit 52c is capable of generating a message such as, "Let's decelerate the vehicle 1 at a constant deceleration rate and stop the vehicle 1 at the stop line just before the upcoming crosswalk CW," and outputting a command including the generated message to the notification control unit 52d.

[0046] The evaluation unit 51d is capable of evaluating the driving skill of the driver of the vehicle 1 based on the speed data and acceleration data of the vehicle 1 acquired by the data acquisition unit 51a after starting the second process. For example, as shown in FIG. 4, the evaluation unit 51d detects a period during which the deceleration (data obtained by inverting the sign of the acceleration) is within the range of the average deceleration (Gavg) ±ΔG in a predetermined period (t1 to t2), and if the proportion of the period during which the deceleration is within the range of Gavg ±ΔG is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold, the evaluation unit 51d is capable of evaluating the driving skill of the driver of the vehicle 1 as being excellent. Note that t1 is, for example, the timing at which the deceleration increases and then becomes constant. t2 is, for example, the timing at which the deceleration suddenly decreases. For example, if the proportion of the period during which the deceleration is within the range of Gavg ±ΔG is less than a predetermined threshold, the evaluation unit 51d is capable of evaluating the driving skill of the driver of the vehicle 1 as being insufficient.

[0047] 4, for example, the evaluation unit 51d detects a period during which the standard deviation Sg of deceleration falls within a predetermined range during a predetermined period (t1 to t2), and if the proportion of the period during which the standard deviation Sg of deceleration falls within the predetermined range is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold, the evaluation unit 51d is able to evaluate that the driving skill of the driver of the vehicle 1 is excellent. For example, if the proportion of the period during which the standard deviation Sg of deceleration falls within the predetermined range is less than a predetermined threshold, the evaluation unit 51d is able to evaluate that the driving skill of the driver of the vehicle 1 is insufficient.

[0048] The evaluation unit 51d is capable of performing a process of notifying the content of the evaluation obtained as a result of the evaluation. This process corresponds to a specific example of a “third process” according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. When the evaluation unit 51d evaluates that the driving skill of the driver of the vehicle 1 is excellent, the evaluation unit 51d is capable of outputting a command including message data indicating that the driving skill of the driver of the vehicle 1 is excellent to the notification control unit 52d. For example, the evaluation unit 51d is capable of generating a message such as “The deceleration was very stable” and outputting a command including the generated message to the notification control unit 52d. When the evaluation unit 51d evaluates that the driving skill of the driver of the vehicle 1 is insufficient, the evaluation unit 51d is capable of outputting a command including message data indicating that the driving skill of the driver of the vehicle 1 is insufficient to the notification control unit 52d. For example, the evaluation unit 51d is capable of generating a message such as “The initial brake application amount was a little small” and outputting a command including the generated message to the notification control unit 52d.

[0049] 1, the control unit 50 further includes a driving control unit 52. The driving control unit 52 is capable of controlling the driving of the vehicle 1 (for example, the torque of the prime mover 60, the amount of brake depression, and the steering angle of the steering wheel) and notifications to the driver of the vehicle 1. The driving control unit 52 is capable of performing driving control and notification control using data acquired by the data acquisition unit 51a (various data acquired from the sensor unit 10, various data acquired from the outside via the communication unit 20, various data acquired from the HMI 30, and various control signals to various devices of the vehicle 1).

[0050] The driving control unit 52 is capable of calculating a required torque to be applied to an accelerator control unit 52a (described later) based on the data acquired by the data acquisition unit 51a. The driving control unit 52 is capable of calculating a required torque to be applied to a brake control unit 52b (described later) based on the data acquired by the data acquisition unit 51a. The driving control unit 52 is capable of calculating a steering assist torque to be generated by a steering control unit 52c (described later) based on the data acquired by the data acquisition unit 51a. The driving control unit 52 is capable of generating notification data to be used to notify the driver of the vehicle 1 based on a command input from the skill evaluation unit 51.

[0051] As shown in FIG. 1, the driving control unit 52 includes, for example, an accelerator control unit 52a, a brake control unit 52b, a steering control unit 52c, and a notification control unit 52d.

[0052] Accelerator control unit 52a is capable of controlling the torque of prime mover 60 based on a required torque corresponding to the amount of accelerator pedal depression by the driver of vehicle 1. Prime mover 60 is configured to drive the steered wheels of vehicle 1, and is capable of driving the steered wheels of vehicle 1 in accordance with the required torque input from accelerator control unit 52a.

[0053] The brake control unit 52b is capable of controlling the torque of the brake 70 based on a required torque corresponding to the amount of brake pedal depression by the driver of the vehicle 1. The brake 70 is configured to brake the steered wheels of the vehicle 1, and is capable of braking the steered wheels of the vehicle 1 in accordance with the required torque input from the brake control unit 52b.

[0054] The steering control unit 52c is capable of deriving a steering assist torque that assists the steering torque generated by the driver's steering wheel operation and setting an EPS torque corresponding to the derived steering assist torque. The steering control unit 52c is capable of outputting a control signal to the EPS motor 80 so that the output torque of the EPS motor 80 becomes the set EPS torque. The EPS motor 80 generates an output torque based on the input control signal and is capable of controlling the steering angle of the steering wheel.

[0055] The accelerator control unit 52a, the brake control unit 52b, and the steering control unit 52c may be configured to include, for example, a CPU, etc. In this case, the accelerator control unit 52a, the brake control unit 52b, and the steering control unit 52c are able to perform the various driving controls described above by, for example, executing control software stored in a storage unit.

[0056] The notification control unit 52d is capable of generating notification data for notifying the driver of the vehicle 1 based on a command input from the skill evaluation unit 51 and outputting the generated notification data to the HMI 30. The notification control unit 52d is capable of, for example, generating a video signal including the notification data and outputting it to the HMI 30 (e.g., the center panel display 36). The notification control unit 52d is capable of, for example, generating an audio signal including the notification data and outputting it to the HMI 30 (e.g., the speaker 37). When the video signal is input from the notification control unit 52d, the HMI 30 (e.g., the center panel display 36) is capable of displaying an image corresponding to the input video signal on a display screen. When the audio signal is input from the notification control unit 52d, the HMI 30 (e.g., the speaker 37) is capable of outputting audio corresponding to the input audio signal from the speaker.

[0057] [Operation] Next, the operation of the control unit 50 will be described with reference to Fig. 5. Fig. 5 is a diagram for explaining an example of a procedure for evaluating driving skills in the control unit 50.

[0058] The control unit 50 determines whether the skill evaluation flag is on (“1”) or off (“0”) (step S101). The driver of the vehicle 1 sets the skill evaluation flag on (“1”) or off (“0”), for example, using the center panel display 36. When the driver of the vehicle 1 sets the skill evaluation flag on (“1”), for example, using the center panel display 36, the control unit 50 stores the set skill evaluation flag in the memory unit 40. When the driver of the vehicle 1 sets the skill evaluation flag off (“0”), for example, using the center panel display 36, the control unit 50 stores the set skill evaluation flag in the memory unit 40.

[0059] If the skill evaluation flag is on (“1”) (step S101; Y), the control unit 50 acquires various data obtained from the sensor unit 10, various data obtained from the outside via the communication unit 20, various data obtained from the HMI 30, and various control signals for various devices of the vehicle 1. The control unit 50 further acquires a stereo image Ia or a distance image Ib from the stereo camera 11. The control unit 50 further acquires surrounding map data including the acquired position of the vehicle 1 from the road map data DB 41 in the memory unit 40. The control unit 50 further acquires road data ahead of the traveling vehicle 1 and position and speed data for the vehicle 1 and traffic participants ahead of the vehicle 1 based on the acquired various data, various control signals, and map data (step S102).

[0060] Next, the control unit 50 determines whether or not the obtained data ("road data ahead of the traveling vehicle 1" and "position and speed data on the vehicle 1 and traffic participants ahead of the vehicle 1") satisfy the driving conditions suitable for carrying out driving training (step S103). As a result, if the obtained data satisfy the driving conditions suitable for carrying out driving training (step S103; Y), the control unit 50 performs a process of notifying the suggestion to carry out driving training.

[0061] The control unit 50 generates message data suggesting that driving training be performed, generates notification data for notifying the driver of the vehicle 1 based on the generated message data, and outputs the generated notification data to the HMI 30. The HMI 30 (center panel display 36) displays an image on a display screen corresponding to a video signal including the input message data. The HMI 30 (e.g., speaker 37) further outputs a sound corresponding to an audio signal including the input message data. As a result, the HMI 30 suggests that the driver of the vehicle 1 perform driving training (step S104).

[0062] The HMI 30 acquires a touch input to the center panel display 36 or a voice input to the microphone 38 as a response to the suggestion to perform driving training. The HMI 30 outputs the acquired content to the control unit 50 as a response to the suggestion to perform driving training. The control unit 50 determines whether or not a signal indicating consent to perform driving training has been acquired as a response to the suggestion to perform driving training (step S105). As a result, if a signal indicating consent to perform driving training has been acquired as a response to the suggestion to perform driving training (step S105; Y), the control unit 50 performs a process to notify the user of the details of the driving training.

[0063] The control unit 50 generates message data indicating the contents of the driving training, generates notification data for notifying the driver of the vehicle 1 based on the generated message data, and outputs the generated notification data to the HMI 30. The HMI 30 (center panel display 36) displays an image on the display screen corresponding to a video signal including the input message data. The HMI 30 (e.g., speaker 37) further outputs a sound corresponding to an audio signal including the input message data. As a result, the HMI 30 notifies the driver of the vehicle 1 of the contents of the driving training (step S106).

[0064] The control unit 50 again acquires various data, various control signals, and map data from the sensor unit 10, etc., and acquires road data ahead of the traveling vehicle 1 and position and speed data for the vehicle 1 and traffic participants ahead of the vehicle 1 (step S107). The control unit 50 periodically acquires various data, various control signals, and map data from the sensor unit 10, etc., and periodically acquires road data ahead of the traveling vehicle 1 and position and speed data for the vehicle 1 and traffic participants ahead of the vehicle 1 based on the acquired data. At this time, the control unit 50 determines whether the vehicle 1 has stopped based on the speed data of the vehicle 1 included in the acquired data (step S108). As a result, if the control unit 50 determines that the vehicle 1 has not stopped (step S108; N), it continues to periodically acquire road data ahead of the traveling vehicle 1 and position and speed data for the vehicle 1 and traffic participants ahead of the vehicle 1. On the other hand, when the control unit 50 determines that the vehicle 1 has stopped (step S108; Y), it evaluates the driving skill of the driver of the vehicle 1 based on the acquired speed data and acceleration data of the vehicle 1 (step S109). The control unit 50 performs a process (notification process) of notifying the content of the evaluation (evaluation content) obtained as a result of the evaluation.

[0065] The control unit 50 generates message data indicating the evaluation content, generates notification data for notifying the driver of the vehicle 1 based on the generated message data, and outputs the generated notification data to the HMI 30. The HMI 30 (center panel display 36) displays an image on a display screen corresponding to a video signal including the input message data. The HMI 30 (e.g., speaker 37) further outputs a sound corresponding to an audio signal including the input message data. As a result, the HMI 30 notifies the driver of the vehicle 1 of the evaluation content (step S110).

[0066] The control unit 50 may perform the above-mentioned notification process while driving or after driving has finished. Instead of performing the notification process using the HMI 30, the control unit 50 may perform a process of transmitting the evaluation content to, for example, a mobile device owned by the driver of the vehicle 1. In this case, the driver of the vehicle 1 can check the evaluation content using the mobile device. In this way, the driving skill is evaluated.

[0067] [effect] Next, the effects of the vehicle 1 according to this embodiment will be described.

[0068] In this embodiment, when the obtained data ("road data ahead of the traveling vehicle 1" and "position and speed data about the vehicle 1 and traffic participants ahead of the vehicle 1") satisfy driving conditions suitable for carrying out driving training, the execution of driving training is suggested. When a signal indicating consent to carrying out driving training is acquired in response to the suggestion to carry out driving training, specific details of the driving training are announced. After the specific details of the driving training are announced, the driving skills of the driver of the vehicle 1 are evaluated based on the speed data and acceleration data of the vehicle 1 acquired, and the details of the resulting evaluation are announced.

[0069] As described above, in this embodiment, even if the driver of the vehicle 1 does not know in advance which roads are suitable for driving training, the vehicle 1 notifies the driver of the approaching road suitable for driving training and suggests that the driver undergo driving training. This allows smooth support for driving that utilizes spatial recognition ability. As a result, dementia can be prevented through driving training.

[0070] In this embodiment, when the specific contents of the driving training are notified, a driving method for the road ahead of the vehicle 1 is suggested. This allows the driver of the vehicle 1 to understand the specific driving style that is required in the driving training. As a result, driving that utilizes spatial recognition ability can be smoothly supported. Therefore, dementia can be prevented through driving training.

[0071] In this embodiment, training to stop the vehicle at a constant deceleration is proposed. This allows the driver of the vehicle 1 to drive using their spatial recognition ability. As a result, dementia can be prevented through driving training.

[0072] <2. Second embodiment> [composition] Next, a vehicle 2 according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure will be described. In the following, common reference numerals will be used to designate components common to the first embodiment. Further, descriptions of components common to the first embodiment will be omitted as appropriate.

[0073] 6 illustrates an example of functional blocks of a vehicle 2 according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 6, the vehicle 2 includes, for example, a sensor unit 10, a communication unit 20, an HMI 30, a storage unit 40, a control unit 50, a motor 60, a brake 70, and an EPS motor 80. In this embodiment, a driving condition detection unit 51e, a training suggestion unit 52f, and an evaluation unit 51g are provided in place of the driving condition detection unit 51b, the training suggestion unit 52c, and the evaluation unit 51d.

[0074] The driving condition detection unit 51e is capable of determining whether the data obtained by the data acquisition unit 51a (specifically, "road data ahead of the traveling vehicle 2" and "position and speed data on the vehicle 2 and traffic participants ahead of the vehicle 2") satisfy conditions suitable for carrying out driving training. Here, "conditions suitable for carrying out driving training" refers to conditions suitable for carrying out training in which the vehicle 2 travels at a constant speed on a road with a varying gradient, and refers to a traffic situation in which, for example, there are no other traffic participants within a range of about 100 m ahead of the vehicle 2, or, even if there are other traffic participants within a range of about 100 m ahead of the vehicle 2, the number, positions, and speeds of the other traffic participants do not affect the traveling of the vehicle 2.

[0075] The training suggestion unit 52f is capable of performing a process of notifying the user of a suggestion to perform driving training when the data obtained by the data acquisition unit 51a (specifically, "road data ahead of the traveling vehicle 2" and "position and speed data about the vehicle 2 and traffic participants ahead of the vehicle 2") satisfy conditions suitable for performing driving training. This process corresponds to a specific example of a "first process" according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The training suggestion unit 52f is capable of outputting a command including message data suggesting performing driving training to the notification control unit 52d. For example, the training suggestion unit 52f is capable of generating a message such as "The road ahead has a gradual gradient. Would you like to practice driving the vehicle 2 at a constant speed on a road with a gradual gradient?" based on the data obtained by the data acquisition unit 51a (specifically, "road data ahead of the traveling vehicle 2" and "position and speed data about the vehicle 2 and traffic participants ahead of the vehicle 2") and outputting a command including the generated message to the notification control unit 52d.

[0076] When the training suggestion unit 52f receives a signal indicating consent to the execution of the driving training from the HMI 30 in response to the first process, the training suggestion unit 52f is capable of performing a process of notifying the user of specific details of the driving training. This process corresponds to a specific example of a "second process" according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The training suggestion unit 52f is capable of outputting a command including message data indicating specific details of the driving training to the notification control unit 52d. The training suggestion unit 52f is capable of outputting a command to the notification control unit 52d, which is a message suggesting a driving method for the road ahead of the vehicle 2, as specific details of the driving training. For example, the training suggestion unit 52f is capable of generating a message such as "Let's drive the vehicle 2 at a constant speed on a road with a gradual gradient," and outputting a command including the generated message to the notification control unit 52d.

[0077] The evaluation unit 51g is capable of evaluating the driving skill of the driver of the vehicle 2 based on the speed data and acceleration data of the vehicle 2 acquired by the data acquisition unit 51a after the start of the second process. For example, as shown in FIG. 7, the evaluation unit 51g detects a period during which the speed is within a range of an average speed (Vavg1) ± ΔVa during a predetermined period (t1 to t2), and if the proportion of the period during which the speed is within the range of Vavg1 ± ΔVa is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold, the evaluation unit 51g is capable of evaluating the driving skill of the driver of the vehicle 2 as excellent. Note that t1 is, for example, the timing when the current training session started. t2 is, for example, the timing when the gradient of the road stops changing or the timing when a predetermined time has elapsed since t1. For example, if the proportion of the period during which the speed is within the range of Vavg1 ± ΔVa is less than the predetermined threshold, the evaluation unit 51g is capable of evaluating the driving skill of the driver of the vehicle 2 as insufficient.

[0078] 7, for example, the evaluation unit 51g detects a period during which the standard deviation Sa of the speed falls within a predetermined range during a predetermined period (t1 to t2), and if the proportion of the period during which the standard deviation Sa of the speed falls within the predetermined range is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold, the evaluation unit 51g is able to evaluate that the driving skill of the driver of the vehicle 2 is excellent. For example, if the proportion of the period during which the standard deviation Sa of the speed falls within the predetermined range is less than a predetermined threshold, the evaluation unit 51g is able to evaluate that the driving skill of the driver of the vehicle 2 is insufficient.

[0079] The evaluation unit 51g is capable of performing a process of notifying the content of the evaluation obtained as a result of the evaluation. This process corresponds to a specific example of a “third process” according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. When the evaluation unit 51g evaluates that the driving skill of the driver of the vehicle 2 is excellent, the evaluation unit 51g is capable of outputting a command including message data indicating that the driving skill of the driver of the vehicle 2 is excellent to the notification control unit 52d. For example, the evaluation unit 51g is capable of generating a message such as “Your speed was very stable” and outputting a command including the generated message to the notification control unit 52d. When the evaluation unit 51g evaluates that the driving skill of the driver of the vehicle 2 is insufficient, the evaluation unit 51g is capable of outputting a command including message data indicating that the driving skill of the driver of the vehicle 2 is insufficient to the notification control unit 52d. For example, the evaluation unit 51g is capable of generating a message such as “Your speed varied widely in the latter half of the driving” and outputting a command including the generated message to the notification control unit 52d.

[0080] [Operation] Next, the operation of the control unit 50 will be described with reference to Fig. 8. Fig. 8 is a diagram for explaining an example of a procedure for evaluating driving skills in the control unit 50.

[0081] The control unit 50 determines whether the skill evaluation flag is on (“1”) or off (“0”) (step S201). The driver of the vehicle 2 sets the skill evaluation flag on (“1”) or off (“0”), for example, using the center panel display 36. When the driver of the vehicle 2 sets the skill evaluation flag on (“1”), for example, using the center panel display 36, the control unit 50 stores the set skill evaluation flag in the memory unit 40. When the driver of the vehicle 2 sets the skill evaluation flag off (“0”), for example, using the center panel display 36, the control unit 50 stores the set skill evaluation flag in the memory unit 40.

[0082] If the skill evaluation flag is on (“1”) (step S201; Y), the control unit 50 acquires various data obtained from the sensor unit 10, various data obtained from the outside via the communication unit 20, various data obtained from the HMI 30, and various control signals for various devices of the vehicle 2. The control unit 50 further acquires a stereo image Ia or a distance image Ib from the stereo camera 11. The control unit 50 further acquires surrounding map data including the acquired position of the vehicle 2 from the road map data DB 41 in the memory unit 40. The control unit 50 further acquires road data ahead of the traveling vehicle 2 and position and speed data for the vehicle 2 and traffic participants ahead of the vehicle 2 based on the acquired various data, various control signals, and map data (step S202).

[0083] Next, the control unit 50 determines whether the obtained data ("road data ahead of the traveling vehicle 2" and "position and speed data on the vehicle 2 and traffic participants ahead of the vehicle 2") satisfy the driving conditions suitable for carrying out driving training (step S203). As a result, if the obtained data satisfy the driving conditions suitable for carrying out driving training (step S203; Y), the control unit 50 performs a process of notifying the suggestion to carry out driving training.

[0084] The control unit 50 generates message data suggesting that driving training be performed, generates notification data for notifying the driver of the vehicle 2 based on the generated message data, and outputs the generated notification data to the HMI 30. The HMI 30 (center panel display 36) displays an image on a display screen corresponding to a video signal including the input message data. The HMI 30 (e.g., speaker 37) further outputs a sound corresponding to an audio signal including the input message data. As a result, the HMI 30 suggests that driving training be performed to the driver of the vehicle 2 (step S204).

[0085] The HMI 30 acquires a touch input to the center panel display 36 or a voice input to the microphone 38 as a response to the suggestion to perform driving training. The HMI 30 outputs the acquired content to the control unit 50 as a response to the suggestion to perform driving training. The control unit 50 determines whether or not a signal indicating consent to perform driving training has been acquired as a response to the suggestion to perform driving training (step S205). As a result, if a signal indicating consent to perform driving training has been acquired as a response to the suggestion to perform driving training (step S205; Y), the control unit 50 performs a process to notify the user of the details of the driving training.

[0086] The control unit 50 generates message data indicating the contents of the driving training, generates notification data for notifying the driver of the vehicle 2 based on the generated message data, and outputs the generated notification data to the HMI 30. The HMI 30 (center panel display 36) displays an image on the display screen corresponding to a video signal including the input message data. The HMI 30 (e.g., speaker 37) further outputs a sound corresponding to an audio signal including the input message data. As a result, the HMI 30 notifies the driver of the vehicle 2 of the contents of the driving training (step S206).

[0087] The control unit 50 again acquires various data, various control signals, and map data from the sensor unit 10, etc., and acquires road data ahead of the traveling vehicle 2 and position and speed data for the vehicle 2 and traffic participants ahead of the vehicle 2 (step S207). The control unit 50 periodically acquires various data, various control signals, and map data from the sensor unit 10, etc., and periodically acquires road data ahead of the traveling vehicle 2 and position and speed data for the vehicle 2 and traffic participants ahead of the vehicle 2 based on the acquired data. At this time, the control unit 50 determines whether the road gradient has flattened based on the speed data and acceleration data of the vehicle 2 included in the acquired data (step S208). As a result, if the control unit 50 determines that the road gradient has not flattened (step S208; N), it continues to periodically acquire road data ahead of the traveling vehicle 2 and position and speed data for the vehicle 2 and traffic participants ahead of the vehicle 2. On the other hand, when the control unit 50 determines that the gradient of the road has flattened (step S208; Y), it evaluates the driving skill of the driver of the vehicle 2 (step S209) based on the acquired speed data and acceleration data of the vehicle 2. The control unit 50 performs processing to notify the content of the evaluation (evaluation content) obtained as a result of the evaluation.

[0088] The control unit 50 generates message data indicating the evaluation content, generates notification data for notifying the driver of the vehicle 2 based on the generated message data, and outputs the generated notification data to the HMI 30. The HMI 30 (center panel display 36) displays a video on a display screen corresponding to a video signal including the input message data. The HMI 30 (e.g., speaker 37) further outputs a sound corresponding to a sound signal including the input message data. As a result, the HMI 30 notifies the driver of the vehicle 2 of the evaluation content (step S210).

[0089] The control unit 50 may perform the above-mentioned notification process while driving or after driving has finished. Instead of performing the notification process using the HMI 30, the control unit 50 may perform a process of transmitting the evaluation content to, for example, a mobile device owned by the driver of the vehicle 2. In this case, the driver of the vehicle 2 can check the evaluation content using the mobile device. In this way, the driving skill is evaluated.

[0090] [effect] Next, the effects of the vehicle 2 according to this embodiment will be described.

[0091] In this embodiment, when the obtained data ("road data ahead of the traveling vehicle 2" and "position and speed data about the vehicle 2 and traffic participants ahead of the vehicle 2") satisfy driving conditions suitable for carrying out driving training, the execution of driving training is suggested. When a signal indicating consent to carrying out driving training is acquired in response to the suggestion to carry out driving training, specific details of the driving training are announced. After the specific details of the driving training are announced, the driving skills of the driver of vehicle 2 are evaluated based on the speed data and acceleration data of vehicle 2 acquired, and the details of the resulting evaluation are announced.

[0092] As described above, in this embodiment, even if the driver of the vehicle 2 does not know in advance which roads are suitable for driving training, the vehicle 2 notifies the driver of the approaching road suitable for driving training and suggests that the driver undergo driving training. This allows smooth support for driving that utilizes spatial recognition ability. As a result, dementia can be prevented through driving training.

[0093] In this embodiment, when the specific contents of the driving training are notified, a driving method for the road ahead of the vehicle 2 is suggested. This allows the driver of the vehicle 2 to understand the specific driving style that is required in the driving training. As a result, driving that utilizes spatial recognition ability can be smoothly supported. Therefore, dementia can be prevented through driving training.

[0094] In this embodiment, it is proposed to perform training in which the driver drives at a constant speed on a road with a varying gradient. This allows the driver of the vehicle 2 to drive using their spatial recognition ability. As a result, dementia can be prevented through driving training.

[0095] <3. Third Embodiment> [composition] Next, a vehicle 3 according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure will be described. In the following, common reference numerals will be used to designate components common to the first embodiment. Further, descriptions of components common to the first embodiment will be omitted as appropriate.

[0096] 9 illustrates an example of functional blocks of a vehicle 3 according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 9, the vehicle 3 includes, for example, a sensor unit 10, a communication unit 20, an HMI 30, a storage unit 40, a control unit 50, a motor 60, a brake 70, and an EPS motor 80. In this embodiment, a driving condition detection unit 51h, a training suggestion unit 52i, and an evaluation unit 51j are provided in place of the driving condition detection unit 51b, the training suggestion unit 52c, and the evaluation unit 51d.

[0097] The driving condition detection unit 51h is capable of determining whether the data obtained by the data acquisition unit 51a (specifically, "road data ahead of the traveling vehicle 3" and "position and speed data on the vehicle 3 and traffic participants ahead of the vehicle 3") satisfy conditions suitable for carrying out driving training. Here, "conditions suitable for carrying out driving training" refers to conditions suitable for carrying out training in which the vehicle 3 travels at a constant speed on a road with a changing curvature, and refers to a traffic situation in which, for example, there are no other traffic participants within a range of about 100 m ahead of the vehicle 3, or, even if there are other traffic participants within a range of about 100 m ahead of the vehicle 3, the number, positions, and speeds of the other traffic participants do not affect the traveling of the vehicle 3.

[0098] The training suggestion unit 52i is capable of performing a process of notifying a driver of a suggestion to perform driving training when the data obtained by the data acquisition unit 51a (specifically, "road data ahead of the traveling vehicle 3" and "position and speed data on the vehicle 3 and traffic participants ahead of the vehicle 3") satisfy conditions suitable for performing driving training. This process corresponds to a specific example of a "first process" according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The training suggestion unit 52i is capable of outputting a command including message data suggesting performing driving training to the notification control unit 52d. For example, the training suggestion unit 52i is capable of generating a message such as "The curvature of the road ahead changes gradually. Would you like to practice driving the vehicle 3 at a constant speed on a road with a gradually changing curvature?" based on the data obtained by the data acquisition unit 51a (specifically, "road data ahead of the traveling vehicle 3" and "position and speed data on the vehicle 3 and traffic participants ahead of the vehicle 3"), and outputting a command including the generated message to the notification control unit 52d.

[0099] When the training suggestion unit 52i receives a signal indicating consent to the execution of the driving training from the HMI 30 in response to the first process, the training suggestion unit 52i is capable of performing a process of notifying the user of specific details of the driving training. This process corresponds to a specific example of a "second process" according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The training suggestion unit 52i is capable of outputting a command including message data indicating specific details of the driving training to the notification control unit 52d. The training suggestion unit 52i is capable of outputting a command to the notification control unit 52d, which is a message suggesting a driving method for the road ahead of the vehicle 2, as specific details of the driving training. For example, the training suggestion unit 52i is capable of generating a message such as "Let's try driving the vehicle 3 at a constant speed on a road with a gradually changing curvature," and outputting a command including the generated message to the notification control unit 52d.

[0100] The evaluation unit 51j is capable of evaluating the driving skill of the driver of the vehicle 3 based on the speed data and acceleration data of the vehicle 3 acquired by the data acquisition unit 51a after starting the second process. For example, as shown in FIG. 10 , the evaluation unit 51j detects a period during which the speed is within the range of the average speed (Vavg2) ±ΔVb within a predetermined period (t1 to t2), and if the proportion of the period during which the speed is within the range of Vavg2 ±ΔVb is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold, the evaluation unit 51j is capable of evaluating the driving skill of the driver of the vehicle 3 as excellent. Note that t1 is, for example, the timing when the current training session started. t2 is, for example, the timing when the curvature of the road stops changing or the timing when a predetermined time has elapsed since t1. For example, if the proportion of the period during which the speed is within the range of Vavg2 ±ΔVb is less than the predetermined threshold, the evaluation unit 51j is capable of evaluating the driving skill of the driver of the vehicle 3 as insufficient.

[0101] 10, the evaluation unit 51j detects a period during which the standard deviation Sb of the speed falls within a predetermined range during a predetermined period (t1 to t2), and if the proportion of the period during which the standard deviation Sb of the speed falls within the predetermined range is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold, the evaluation unit 51j is able to evaluate that the driving skill of the driver of the vehicle 3 is excellent. For example, if the proportion of the period during which the standard deviation Sb of the speed falls within the predetermined range is less than a predetermined threshold, the evaluation unit 51j is able to evaluate that the driving skill of the driver of the vehicle 3 is insufficient.

[0102] The evaluation unit 51j is capable of performing a process of notifying the content of the evaluation obtained as a result of the evaluation. This process corresponds to a specific example of a “third process” according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. When the evaluation unit 51j evaluates that the driving skill of the driver of the vehicle 3 is excellent, the evaluation unit 51j is capable of outputting a command including message data indicating that the driving skill of the driver of the vehicle 3 is excellent to the notification control unit 52d. For example, the evaluation unit 51j is capable of generating a message such as “Your speed was very stable” and outputting a command including the generated message to the notification control unit 52d. When the evaluation unit 51j evaluates that the driving skill of the driver of the vehicle 3 is insufficient, the evaluation unit 51j is capable of outputting a command including message data indicating that the driving skill of the driver of the vehicle 3 is insufficient to the notification control unit 52d. For example, the evaluation unit 51j is capable of generating a message such as “Your speed varied widely in the latter half of the driving” and outputting a command including the generated message to the notification control unit 52d.

[0103] [Operation] Next, the operation of the control unit 50 will be described with reference to Fig. 11. Fig. 11 is a diagram for explaining an example of a procedure for evaluating driving skills in the control unit 50.

[0104] The control unit 50 determines whether the skill evaluation flag is on (“1”) or off (“0”) (step S301). The driver of the vehicle 3 sets the skill evaluation flag on (“1”) or off (“0”), for example, using the center panel display 36. When the driver of the vehicle 3 sets the skill evaluation flag on (“1”), for example, using the center panel display 36, the control unit 50 stores the set skill evaluation flag in the memory unit 40. When the driver of the vehicle 3 sets the skill evaluation flag off (“0”), for example, using the center panel display 36, the control unit 50 stores the set skill evaluation flag in the memory unit 40.

[0105] If the skill evaluation flag is on (“1”) (step S301; Y), the control unit 50 acquires various data obtained from the sensor unit 10, various data obtained from the outside via the communication unit 20, various data obtained from the HMI 30, and various control signals for various devices of the vehicle 3. The control unit 50 further acquires a stereo image Ia or a distance image Ib from the stereo camera 11. The control unit 50 further acquires surrounding map data including the acquired position of the vehicle 3 from the road map data DB 41 in the memory unit 40. The control unit 50 further acquires road data ahead of the traveling vehicle 3 and position and speed data for the vehicle 3 and traffic participants ahead of the vehicle 3 based on the acquired various data, various control signals, and map data (step S302).

[0106] Next, the control unit 50 determines whether the obtained data ("road data ahead of the traveling vehicle 3" and "position and speed data on the vehicle 3 and traffic participants ahead of the vehicle 3") satisfy the driving conditions suitable for carrying out driving training (step S303). As a result, if the obtained data satisfy the driving conditions suitable for carrying out driving training (step S303; Y), the control unit 50 performs processing to notify the user of a suggestion to carry out driving training.

[0107] The control unit 50 generates message data suggesting that driving training be performed, generates notification data for notifying the driver of the vehicle 3 based on the generated message data, and outputs the generated notification data to the HMI 30. The HMI 30 (center panel display 36) displays a video on a display screen corresponding to a video signal including the input message data. The HMI 30 (e.g., speaker 37) further outputs a sound corresponding to a sound signal including the input message data. As a result, the HMI 30 suggests that driving training be performed to the driver of the vehicle 3 (step S304).

[0108] The HMI 30 acquires a touch input to the center panel display 36 or a voice input to the microphone 38 as a response to the suggestion to perform driving training. The HMI 30 outputs the acquired content to the control unit 50 as a response to the suggestion to perform driving training. The control unit 50 determines whether or not a signal indicating consent to perform driving training has been acquired as a response to the suggestion to perform driving training (step S305). As a result, if a signal indicating consent to perform driving training has been acquired as a response to the suggestion to perform driving training (step S305; Y), the control unit 50 performs a process to notify the user of the details of the driving training.

[0109] The control unit 50 generates message data indicating the contents of the driving training, generates notification data for notifying the driver of the vehicle 3 based on the generated message data, and outputs the generated notification data to the HMI 30. The HMI 30 (center panel display 36) displays a video on a display screen corresponding to a video signal including the input message data. The HMI 30 (e.g., speaker 37) further outputs a sound corresponding to a sound signal including the input message data. As a result, the HMI 30 notifies the driver of the vehicle 3 of the contents of the driving training (step S306).

[0110] The control unit 50 again acquires various data, various control signals, and map data from the sensor unit 10, etc., and acquires road data ahead of the traveling vehicle 3 and position and speed data for the vehicle 3 and traffic participants ahead of the vehicle 3 (step S307). The control unit 50 periodically acquires various data, various control signals, and map data from the sensor unit 10, etc., and periodically acquires road data ahead of the traveling vehicle 3 and position and speed data for the vehicle 3 and traffic participants ahead of the vehicle 3 based on the acquired data. At this time, the control unit 50 determines whether the curvature of the road has stabilized based on the speed data and acceleration data of the vehicle 3 included in the acquired data (step S308). As a result, if the control unit 50 determines that the curvature of the road has not stabilized (step S308; N), it continues to periodically acquire road data ahead of the traveling vehicle 3 and position and speed data for the vehicle 3 and traffic participants ahead of the vehicle 3. On the other hand, when the control unit 50 determines that the curvature of the road has become constant (step S308; Y), it evaluates the driving skill of the driver of the vehicle 3 (step S309) based on the acquired speed data and acceleration data of the vehicle 3. The control unit 50 performs processing to notify the content of the evaluation (evaluation content) obtained as a result of the evaluation.

[0111] The control unit 50 generates message data indicating the evaluation content, generates notification data for notifying the driver of the vehicle 3 based on the generated message data, and outputs the generated notification data to the HMI 30. The HMI 30 (center panel display 36) displays an image on a display screen corresponding to a video signal including the input message data. The HMI 30 (e.g., speaker 37) further outputs a sound corresponding to an audio signal including the input message data. As a result, the HMI 30 notifies the driver of the vehicle 3 of the evaluation content (step S310).

[0112] The control unit 50 may perform the above-mentioned notification process while driving or after driving has finished. Instead of performing the notification process using the HMI 30, the control unit 50 may perform a process of transmitting the evaluation content to, for example, a mobile device owned by the driver of the vehicle 3. In this case, the driver of the vehicle 3 can check the evaluation content using the mobile device. In this way, the driving skill is evaluated.

[0113] [effect] Next, the effects of the vehicle 3 according to this embodiment will be described.

[0114] In this embodiment, when the obtained data ("road data ahead of the traveling vehicle 3" and "position and speed data about the vehicle 3 and traffic participants ahead of the vehicle 3") satisfy driving conditions suitable for carrying out driving training, the execution of driving training is suggested. When a signal indicating consent to carrying out driving training is acquired in response to the suggestion to carry out driving training, specific details of the driving training are announced. After the specific details of the driving training have been announced, the driving skills of the driver of the vehicle 3 are evaluated based on the speed data and acceleration data of the vehicle 3 acquired, and the details of the resulting evaluation are announced.

[0115] As described above, in this embodiment, even if the driver of the vehicle 3 does not know in advance which roads are suitable for driving training, the vehicle 3 notifies the driver of the approaching road suitable for driving training and suggests that the driver undergo driving training. This allows smooth support for driving that utilizes spatial recognition ability. As a result, dementia can be prevented through driving training.

[0116] In this embodiment, when the specific contents of the driving training are notified, a driving method for the road ahead of the vehicle 3 is suggested. This allows the driver of the vehicle 3 to understand the specific driving style that is required in the driving training. As a result, driving that utilizes spatial recognition ability can be smoothly supported. Therefore, dementia can be prevented through driving training.

[0117] In this embodiment, it is proposed to perform training in which the driver drives at a constant speed on a road with a changing curvature. This allows the driver of the vehicle 3 to drive using their spatial recognition ability. As a result, dementia can be prevented through driving training.

[0118] <4. Modification of the First Embodiment> Next, a modified example of the vehicle 1 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure will be described. In this modified example, the vehicle 1 may further include an in-vehicle camera 90, for example, as shown in FIG. 12. The in-vehicle camera 90 is disposed in a position where it can capture an image of the face of the driver of the vehicle 1. The in-vehicle camera 90 is, for example, a monocular camera, and is capable of outputting image data Dc obtained by capturing the image to the control unit 50 (data acquisition unit 51a).

[0119] The data acquisition unit 51a is capable of acquiring image data Dc from the in-vehicle camera 90. For example, as shown in FIG. 13, before executing step S107 of acquiring new map data and observation data, the evaluation unit 51d estimates the direction of the driver's line of sight of the vehicle 1 based on the image data Dc. If the result shows that the driver's line of sight is not directed ahead of the vehicle 1 (step S111; N), the evaluation unit 51d is capable of outputting a command including message data instructing the driver to direct their gaze ahead of the vehicle 1 to the notification control unit 52d. For example, the evaluation unit 51d is capable of generating a message such as "Keep an eye on the road ahead while driving" and outputting a command including the generated message to the notification control unit 52d (step S112).

[0120] The notification control unit 52d is capable of generating notification data for notifying the driver of the vehicle 1 based on the command input from the evaluation unit 51d and outputting the generated notification data to the HMI 30. The notification control unit 52d is capable of, for example, generating a video signal including the notification data and outputting it to the HMI 30 (e.g., the center panel display 36). The notification control unit 52d is capable of, for example, generating an audio signal including the notification data and outputting it to the HMI 30 (e.g., the speaker 37). When the video signal is input from the notification control unit 52d, the HMI 30 (e.g., the center panel display 36) is capable of displaying an image corresponding to the input video signal on a display screen. When the audio signal is input from the notification control unit 52d, the HMI 30 (e.g., the speaker 37) is capable of outputting audio corresponding to the input audio signal from the speaker.

[0121] In this modification, the driver's gaze is directed to the road ahead before the driving skill is evaluated, which allows for a more accurate evaluation of driving skill.

[0122] 5. Modification of the Second Embodiment Next, a modified example of the vehicle 2 according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure will be described. In this modified example, the vehicle 2 may further include an in-vehicle camera 90, for example, as shown in FIG. 14. The in-vehicle camera 90 is disposed in a position where it can capture an image of the face of the driver of the vehicle 2. The in-vehicle camera 90 is, for example, a monocular camera, and is capable of outputting image data Dc obtained by capturing the image to the control unit 50 (data acquisition unit 51a).

[0123] The data acquisition unit 51a is capable of acquiring image data Dc from the in-vehicle camera 90. For example, as shown in FIG. 15 , before executing step S207 of acquiring new map data and observation data, the evaluation unit 51d estimates the direction of the driver's line of sight of the vehicle 2 based on the image data Dc, and if the result shows that the driver's line of sight is not directed forward of the vehicle 2 (step S211; N), the evaluation unit 51d is capable of outputting a command including message data instructing the driver to direct their gaze forward of the vehicle 2 to the notification control unit 52d. For example, the evaluation unit 51d is capable of generating a message such as "Keep an eye on the road ahead while driving" and outputting a command including the generated message to the notification control unit 52d (step S212).

[0124] The notification control unit 52d is capable of generating notification data for notifying the driver of the vehicle 2 based on a command input from the evaluation unit 51g and outputting the generated notification data to the HMI 30. The notification control unit 52d is capable of, for example, generating a video signal including the notification data and outputting it to the HMI 30 (e.g., the center panel display 36). The notification control unit 52d is capable of, for example, generating an audio signal including the notification data and outputting it to the HMI 30 (e.g., the speaker 37). When the video signal is input from the notification control unit 52d, the HMI 30 (e.g., the center panel display 36) is capable of displaying an image corresponding to the input video signal on a display screen. When the audio signal is input from the notification control unit 52d, the HMI 30 (e.g., the speaker 37) is capable of outputting audio corresponding to the input audio signal from the speaker.

[0125] In this modification, the driver's gaze is directed to the road ahead before the driving skill is evaluated, which allows for a more accurate evaluation of driving skill.

[0126] 6. Modification of the Third Embodiment Next, a modified example of the vehicle 3 according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure will be described. In this modified example, the vehicle 3 may further include an in-vehicle camera 90, for example, as shown in FIG. 16. The in-vehicle camera 90 is disposed in a position where it can capture an image of the face of the driver of the vehicle 3. The in-vehicle camera 90 is, for example, a monocular camera, and is capable of outputting image data Dc obtained by capturing the image to the control unit 50 (data acquisition unit 51a).

[0127] The data acquisition unit 51a is capable of acquiring image data Dc from the in-vehicle camera 90. For example, as shown in FIG. 17, before executing step S307 of acquiring new map data and observation data, the evaluation unit 51j estimates the direction of the driver's line of sight of the vehicle 3 based on the image data Dc, and if the result shows that the driver's line of sight is not directed ahead of the vehicle 3 (step S311; N), the evaluation unit 51j is capable of outputting a command including message data instructing the driver to direct their gaze ahead of the vehicle 3 to the notification control unit 52d. For example, the evaluation unit 51j is capable of generating a message such as "Keep an eye on the road ahead while driving" and outputting a command including the generated message to the notification control unit 52d (step S312).

[0128] The notification control unit 52d is capable of generating notification data for notifying the driver of the vehicle 3 based on a command input from the evaluation unit 51j and outputting the generated notification data to the HMI 30. The notification control unit 52d is capable of, for example, generating a video signal including the notification data and outputting it to the HMI 30 (e.g., the center panel display 36). The notification control unit 52d is capable of, for example, generating an audio signal including the notification data and outputting it to the HMI 30 (e.g., the speaker 37). When the video signal is input from the notification control unit 52d, the HMI 30 (e.g., the center panel display 36) is capable of displaying an image corresponding to the input video signal on a display screen. When the audio signal is input from the notification control unit 52d, the HMI 30 (e.g., the speaker 37) is capable of outputting audio corresponding to the input audio signal from the speaker.

[0129] In this modification, the driver's gaze is directed to the road ahead before the driving skill is evaluated, which allows for a more accurate evaluation of driving skill.

[0130] Although the present disclosure has been described above using a number of embodiments and their modifications, the present disclosure is not limited to these embodiments and various modifications are possible. 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.

[0131] Furthermore, the present disclosure may take the following aspects. (1) an acquisition unit capable of acquiring road data ahead of a traveling vehicle and position and speed data about the vehicle and traffic participants ahead of the vehicle; a processing unit capable of executing driving training based on the road data and the position and speed data acquired by the acquisition unit; Equipped with The processing unit determining whether the road data and the position / speed data satisfy conditions suitable for carrying out the driving training, and, when the traffic data and the position / speed data satisfy the conditions, performing a first process of notifying a suggestion to carry out the driving training; When a signal indicating approval for the execution of the driving training is received as a response to the first process, a second process is performed to notify the driver of specific details of the driving training. performing a third process of evaluating the driving skill of the driver of the vehicle based on the speed data and acceleration data of the vehicle acquired by the acquisition unit after starting the second process, and notifying the content of the evaluation obtained as a result; It is possible to carry out Driving skill assessment device. (2) In the second process, the processing unit performs a process of notifying a message suggesting a driving method for a road ahead of the vehicle as a specific content of the driving training. A driving skill evaluation device according to (1). (3) The acquisition unit is capable of acquiring image data generated by an in-vehicle camera provided in the vehicle, The processing unit is capable of performing a fourth process of estimating the direction of the driver's line of sight of the vehicle based on the image data, and if the direction of the driver's line of sight is not directed forward of the vehicle, notifying the driver to direct the line of sight forward of the vehicle. A driving skill evaluation device according to (1) or (2). (4) When the processing unit determines that the traffic data and the position and speed data satisfy conditions suitable for executing training to stop at a constant deceleration as the driving training, the processing unit is capable of performing, as the first processing, a processing of notifying a suggestion to execute the training to stop at a constant deceleration. A driving skill evaluation device according to any one of (1) to (3). (5) When the processing unit determines that the traffic data and the position and speed data satisfy conditions suitable for carrying out training in which the vehicle travels at a constant speed on a road with a varying gradient as the driving training, the processing unit is capable of performing, as the first processing, a processing of notifying a suggestion to carry out the training in which the vehicle travels at a constant speed. A driving skill evaluation device according to any one of (1) to (3). (6) When the processing unit determines that the traffic data and the position and speed data satisfy conditions suitable for carrying out training in which the vehicle travels at a constant speed on a road with a varying curvature as the driving training, the processing unit is capable of performing, as the first processing, a processing of notifying a suggestion to carry out the training in which the vehicle travels at a constant speed. A driving skill evaluation device according to any one of (1) to (3). (7) A vehicle equipped with a driving skill evaluation device, an acquisition unit capable of acquiring road data ahead of the vehicle while the vehicle is traveling, and position and speed data about the vehicle and traffic participants ahead of the vehicle; a processing unit capable of executing driving training based on the road data and the position and speed data acquired by the acquisition unit; and The processing unit determining whether the road data and the position / speed data satisfy conditions suitable for carrying out the driving training, and, when the traffic data and the position / speed data satisfy the conditions, performing a first process of notifying a suggestion to carry out the driving training; When a signal indicating approval for the execution of the driving training is received as a response to the first process, a second process is performed to notify the driver of specific details of the driving training. performing a third process of evaluating the driving skill of the driver of the vehicle based on the speed data and acceleration data of the vehicle acquired by the acquisition unit after starting the second process, and notifying the content of the evaluation obtained as a result; It is possible to carry out vehicle.

[0132] The control unit 50 shown in FIGS. 1, 6, 9, 12, 14, and 16 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 perform all or part of the various functions of the control unit 50 shown in FIGS. 1, 6, 9, 12, 14, and 16 by reading instructions from at least one non-transitory, tangible computer-readable medium. Such medium 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 memories. Volatile memory may include DRAM and SRAM. Non-volatile memory may include ROM and NVRAM. An ASIC is an integrated circuit (IC) specialized to perform all or part of the various functions of the control unit 50 shown in Figures 1, 6, 9, 12, 14, and 16. An FPGA is an integrated circuit designed to be configurable after manufacture to perform all or part of the various functions of the control unit 50 shown in Figures 1, 6, 9, 12, 14, and 16. [Explanation of symbols]

[0133] 1, 2, 3... Vehicle, 10... Sensor unit, 11... Stereo camera, 20... Communication unit, 30... HMI, 31... Steering wheel, 32... Switch, 33... Accelerator pedal, 34... Brake pedal, 35... Meter panel display, 36... Center panel display, 37... Speaker, 38... Microphone, 40... Memory unit, 41... Road map DB, 50... Control unit, 51... Skill evaluation unit, 51a... Data acquisition unit, 51b, 5 1e, 51h...driving condition detection unit, 51c, 51f, 51i...training suggestion unit, 51d, 51g, 51j...evaluation unit, 52...driving control unit, 52a...accelerator control unit, 52b...brake control unit, 52c...steering control unit, 52d...alert control unit, 60...prime mover, 70...brake, 80...EPS motor, 90...in-vehicle camera, CW...pedestrian crossing, FW...front window, L...roadway, La, Lb...lane, TLa, TLb...traffic light.

Claims

1. an acquisition unit capable of acquiring road data ahead of a traveling vehicle and position and speed data about the vehicle and traffic participants ahead of the vehicle; a processing unit capable of executing driving training based on the road data and the position and speed data acquired by the acquisition unit; Equipped with The processing unit determining whether the road data and the position / speed data satisfy conditions suitable for carrying out the driving training, and, when the traffic data and the position / speed data satisfy the conditions, performing a first process of notifying a suggestion to carry out the driving training; When a signal indicating approval for the execution of the driving training is received as a response to the first process, a second process is performed in which specific details of the driving training are notified. performing a third process of evaluating the driving skill of the driver of the vehicle based on the speed data and acceleration data of the vehicle acquired by the acquisition unit after starting the second process, and notifying the content of the evaluation obtained as a result; It is possible to carry out Driving skill assessment device.

2. When the processing unit determines that the traffic data and the position and speed data satisfy conditions suitable for executing training to stop at a constant deceleration as the driving training, the processing unit is capable of performing, as the first processing, a processing of notifying a suggestion to execute the training to stop at a constant deceleration. The driving skill evaluation device according to claim 1 .

3. When the processing unit determines that the traffic data and the position and speed data satisfy conditions suitable for carrying out training in which the vehicle travels at a constant speed on a road with a varying gradient as the driving training, the processing unit is capable of performing, as the first processing, a processing of notifying a suggestion to carry out the training in which the vehicle travels at a constant speed. The driving skill evaluation device according to claim 1 .

4. When the processing unit determines that the traffic data and the position and speed data satisfy conditions suitable for carrying out training in which the vehicle travels at a constant speed on a road with a varying curvature as the driving training, the processing unit is capable of performing, as the first processing, a processing of notifying a suggestion to carry out the training in which the vehicle travels at a constant speed. The driving skill evaluation device according to claim 1 .

5. A vehicle equipped with a driving skill evaluation device, an acquisition unit capable of acquiring road data ahead of the vehicle while the vehicle is traveling, and position and speed data about the vehicle and traffic participants ahead of the vehicle; a processing unit capable of executing driving training based on the road data and the position and speed data acquired by the acquisition unit; and The processing unit determining whether the road data and the position / speed data satisfy conditions suitable for carrying out the driving training, and, when the traffic data and the position / speed data satisfy the conditions, performing a first process of notifying a suggestion to carry out the driving training; When a signal indicating approval for the execution of the driving training is received as a response to the first process, a second process is performed in which specific details of the driving training are notified. performing a third process of evaluating the driving skill of the driver of the vehicle based on the speed data and acceleration data of the vehicle acquired by the acquisition unit after starting the second process, and notifying the content of the evaluation obtained as a result; It is possible to carry out vehicle.

Images