Light distribution control device, control method for light distribution control device, and light distribution control program

Abstract

This invention provides a light distribution control device, a control method for the light distribution control device, and a light distribution control program that can control the light distribution of headlights to reduce discomfort for the user. [Solution] Based on the forward-facing image, a headlight 3 illumination control area is set, which includes a first area including the vehicle in front of the vehicle and a second area around the first area that does not include the vehicle in front. Based on the illumination control area, the set light intensity of the headlight is set. Based on the illumination control area and the set light intensity, the light distribution of the headlight 3 is controlled. Based on the user setting parameters or user operation of the vehicle user, the size of the blurring area surrounding the first area on the first area side of the second area is set. A first light intensity of the first area, a second light intensity of the second area which is brighter than the first light intensity, and a third light intensity of the blurring area which becomes brighter from the first light intensity to the second light intensity as it moves away from the first area are set.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a light distribution control device, a control method of the light distribution control device, and a light distribution control program.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, as a technique related to light distribution control, there is known a method of projecting a high beam pattern having a first zone, providing a predetermined number of pixels on each of the four sides of the edge of the first zone, thereby generating blurred zones in the up, down, left, and right directions (for example, Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] The blurred zones such as the above-mentioned conventional technology are visually recognized by various users such as drivers. According to various survey results, there may be a large difference in user preferences regarding the degree of blurring. Therefore, there is room for improvement to provide a light distribution of a headlight that is less uncomfortable for users.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] One aspect of the present disclosure is a light distribution control device for controlling the light distribution of a headlight that illuminates a front area of ​​a vehicle, comprising: an illumination control area setting unit that sets an illumination control area for the headlight including a first area including a vehicle in front of the vehicle and a second area around the first area that does not include a vehicle in front, based on a forward-imaging image captured by an on-board camera of the vehicle; a light intensity setting unit that sets a set light intensity for the headlight based on the illumination control area; and a light control unit that controls the light distribution of the headlight based on the illumination control area and the set light intensity, wherein the illumination control area setting unit sets the size of a blurred area surrounding the first area on the first area side of the second area based on a user setting parameter or user operation of the vehicle user, and the light intensity setting unit sets a first light intensity for the first area, a second light intensity for the second area which is brighter than the first light intensity, and a third light intensity for the blurred area which becomes brighter from the first light intensity to the second light intensity as it moves away from the first area.

[0006] In a light distribution control device according to one aspect of this disclosure, the size of the blurred area surrounding the first area on the first area side of the second area is set by the irradiation control area setting unit based on the user setting parameters or user operation of the vehicle user. At least the size of the blurred area can be adjusted according to the user setting parameters or user operation. Therefore, compared to the case where the size of the blurred area is constant, it is easier to reduce the discomfort for the user. Accordingly, according to a light distribution control device according to one aspect of this disclosure, the light distribution of the headlights can be controlled to reduce the discomfort for the user.

[0007] In one embodiment, the irradiation control area setting unit may acquire selection information corresponding to a user selection operation for setting the size of the blurred area, as a user setting parameter or user operation. In this case, the user can adjust the size of the blurred area by making selection operations according to their individual preferences.

[0008] In one embodiment, the irradiation control area setting unit may set the size of the first area based on user-defined parameters or user operation. In this case, by adjusting the size of the first area according to the user-defined parameters or user operation, the size of the blurred area changes on the first area side. Therefore, it becomes easier for the user to recognize the change in the size of the blurred area.

[0009] In one embodiment, the irradiation control area setting unit may acquire linked selection information in response to a user's linked selection operation for setting the size of the blurred area and the size of the first area in a linked manner, as a user setting parameter or user operation. In this case, by adjusting the size of the blurred area and the size of the first area in a linked manner, the user's selection operation is made easier, and the user can more easily recognize changes in the size of the blurred area.

[0010] Another aspect of the present disclosure is a control method for a light distribution control device that controls the light distribution of a headlight illuminating a front area of ​​a vehicle, comprising: an illumination control area setting step in which the light distribution control device sets an illumination control area of ​​the headlight, which includes a first area including a vehicle in front of the vehicle and a second area around the first area that does not include a vehicle in front, based on a forward image captured by a camera on the vehicle; a light intensity setting step in which the light distribution control device sets a set light intensity of the headlight based on the illumination control area; and a lighting control step in which the light distribution control device controls the light distribution of the headlight based on the illumination control area and the set light intensity, wherein in the illumination control area setting step, the size of a blurring area surrounding the first area on the first area side of the second area is set based on a user setting parameter or user operation of the vehicle user, and in the light intensity setting step, a first light intensity of the first area, a second light intensity of the second area which is brighter than the first light intensity, and a third light intensity of the blurring area which becomes brighter from the first light intensity to the second light intensity as it moves away from the first area.

[0011] In a control method for a light distribution control device according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the size of the blurred area surrounding the first region on the first region side in the second region is set based on the user setting parameters or user operation of the vehicle user. At least the size of the blurred area can be adjusted according to the user setting parameters or user operation. Therefore, compared to the case where the size of the blurred area is constant, it is easier to reduce the discomfort for the user. Accordingly, according to a light distribution control device according to one aspect of the present disclosure, the light distribution of the headlights can be controlled to reduce the discomfort for the user.

[0012] A further aspect of the present disclosure is a light distribution control program that causes a computer to function as a light distribution control device for controlling the light distribution of a headlight that illuminates a front area of ​​a vehicle, wherein the light distribution control program causes the computer to function as an illumination control area setting unit that sets an illumination control area for a headlight including a first area including a vehicle in front of the vehicle and a second area around the first area that does not include a vehicle in front, based on a forward image captured by an on-board camera of the vehicle; a light intensity setting unit that sets a set light intensity for the headlight based on the illumination control area; and a light control unit that controls the light distribution of the headlight based on the illumination control area and the set light intensity, wherein the illumination control area setting unit sets the size of a blurred area surrounding the first area on the first area side of the second area based on a user setting parameter or user operation of the vehicle user, and the light intensity setting unit sets a first light intensity for the first area, a second light intensity for the second area which is brighter than the first light intensity, and a third light intensity for the blurred area which becomes brighter from the first light intensity to the second light intensity as it moves away from the first area.

[0013] In a light distribution control program according to yet another aspect of this disclosure, the illumination control area setting unit sets the size of the blurred area surrounding the first area on the first area side in the second area based on the user setting parameters or user operation of the vehicle user. At least the size of the blurred area can be adjusted according to the user setting parameters or user operation. Therefore, compared to the case where the size of the blurred area is constant, it is easier to reduce the discomfort for the user. Accordingly, according to a light distribution control device according to one aspect of this disclosure, the light distribution of the headlights can be controlled to reduce the discomfort for the user. [Effects of the Invention]

[0014] According to some aspects of this disclosure, the light distribution of the headlights can be controlled to reduce discomfort for the user. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0015] [Figure 1] Block diagram showing a light distribution control device according to one embodiment. [Figure 2] (a) is a schematic diagram showing an example of a blurred area. (b) is a schematic diagram showing an example of a blurred area larger than the example in (a). (c) is a schematic diagram showing an example of a blurred area larger than the example in (b). [Figure 3] This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of the vehicle angles of the vehicle in front in a forward-facing image. [Figure 4] This is a schematic diagram showing an example of a first region in a forward-facing image that includes a vehicle in front. [Figure 5] This is a schematic diagram showing an example of the display in the selection information acquisition unit. [Figure 6] This is a schematic diagram showing an example of defining the first or second region by height and width. [Figure 7] Figure 1 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing performed by the light distribution control ECU. [Figure 8] Figure 7 is a flowchart showing an example of the process for setting the irradiation control region. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0016] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0017] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a light distribution control device according to an embodiment. The light distribution control device 100 is mounted on a vehicle such as a passenger car. The light distribution control device 100 is a device for controlling the light distribution of a headlight that irradiates a front area of the vehicle. Some functions of the light distribution control device 100 may be executed in a mode on a server that can communicate with the vehicle.

[0018] [Configuration of Light Distribution Control Device] As shown in FIG. 1, the light distribution control device 100 includes a light distribution control ECU [Electronic Control Unit] 10. The light distribution control ECU 10 is an electronic control unit (computer) having a CPU [Central Processing Unit], a ROM [Read Only Memory], a RAM [Random Access Memory], a CAN [Controller Area Network] communication circuit, and the like. In the light distribution control ECU 10, for example, a program stored in the ROM is loaded into the RAM, and various functions are realized by executing the program loaded into the RAM by the CPU. The light distribution control ECU 10 may be composed of a plurality of electronic units. The light distribution control ECU 10 includes a ROM and a RAM as a storage unit. The light distribution control ECU 10 may include an EEPROM [Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory] as a storage unit.

[0019] The light distribution control device 100 includes an external sensor 1, an HMI 2, and a headlight 3 (headlamp). The external sensor 1, the HMI 2, and the headlight 3 are connected to the light distribution control ECU 10.

[0020] External sensor 1 is a detection device that detects the conditions around the vehicle. The conditions around the vehicle include vehicles in front. External sensor 1 includes a camera (onboard camera). External sensor 1 may also include a radar sensor. The camera is an imaging device that captures images of the conditions in front of the vehicle. The camera is installed, for example, on the back of the rearview mirror behind the windshield of the vehicle and captures images of the area in front of the vehicle. The optical axis of the camera coincides, for example, with the longitudinal axis of the vehicle in a plan view of the vehicle. Here, the longitudinal axis is the axis that passes through the center of the vehicle in the width direction and is parallel to the ground surface of the vehicle. The camera transmits the forward-captured images of the conditions in front of the vehicle to the light distribution control ECU 10.

[0021] A radar sensor is a detection device that uses radio waves (e.g., millimeter waves) or light to detect objects around a vehicle. A radar sensor may include, for example, millimeter-wave radar or LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging). The radar sensor transmits information about the detected object to the light distribution control ECU 10.

[0022] HMI2 is an interface for inputting and outputting information between the light distribution control ECU 10 and the occupant (user). HMI2 includes, for example, a display and operation buttons located inside the vehicle cabin. The display may function as a touch panel. The display may be a center display, a navigation display, or a HUD (Head-Up Display). The HUD presents information to the occupant by projecting an image onto the vehicle's windshield or the like. HMI2 outputs an image to the display in response to a control signal from the light distribution control ECU 10. HMI2 may also function as a selection information acquisition unit that accepts selection operations (described later) by the occupant via operation buttons or a touch panel display. HMI2 transmits selection information corresponding to the occupant's selection operation to the light distribution control ECU 10.

[0023] The headlight 3 includes, for example, a left headlight located at the left front end of the vehicle and a right headlight located at the right front end of the vehicle. The left headlight and the right headlight are driving headlights that have a high beam function. The left headlight and the right headlight may also have a low beam function.

[0024] Headlight 3 is a light that uses an LED matrix as its light source. The LED matrix includes a group of LEDs consisting of multiple LEDs. The group of LEDs is arranged in a two-dimensional manner at predetermined intervals in the horizontal and vertical directions when viewed from the front of the vehicle. Headlight 3 includes a high-resolution LED matrix. As will be described later, the high-resolution LED matrix can output a third light intensity in a blurred region where the brightness increases from the first light intensity to the second light intensity.

[0025] [Overview of Light Distribution Control] Figure 2(a) is a schematic diagram showing an example of a blurred area. Figure 2(b) is a schematic diagram showing an example of a blurred area larger than the example in Figure 2(a). Figure 2(c) is a schematic diagram showing an example of a blurred area larger than the example in Figure 2(b). Figures 2(a), 2(b), and 2(c) illustrate the illumination control area of ​​the headlight 3 relative to the vehicle in front as seen from the vehicle.

[0026] The vehicle ahead is any other vehicle located in front of the vehicle. For example, the vehicle ahead is a preceding vehicle V traveling in front of the vehicle in the direction of travel. The vehicle ahead may also be an oncoming vehicle in the oncoming lane. The vehicle ahead may also be a vehicle turning right or left while traveling in a direction intersecting the direction of travel of the vehicle, in front of the vehicle in the direction of travel. The vehicle ahead is the target of adaptive high beam control. In the following description, a vehicle equipped with the light distribution control device 100 that serves as the reference vehicle for "in front" of the vehicle ahead will be simply referred to as "vehicle".

[0027] As shown in Figures 2(a), 2(b), and 2(c), the light distribution control ECU 10 is capable of performing adaptive high-beam control. The light distribution control ECU 10 independently controls the illumination or extinguishing of each LED in the left and right headlight LED groups. The light distribution control ECU 10 independently controls the current value supplied to each LED in the left and right headlight LED groups. When the light distribution control ECU 10 controls the LED groups to illuminate, the LED groups emit light and illuminate the area in front of the vehicle.

[0028] The light distribution control ECU 10 includes an irradiation control area setting unit 11, a light intensity setting unit 12, and a lighting control unit 13.

[0029] The illumination control area setting unit 11 sets the illumination control area of ​​the headlight 3, including a first area and a second area, based on the detection result of the external sensor 1. Adaptive high beam control is a control that controls the light distribution (high beam distribution) of the headlight 3 so that the illuminance of the first area R1, which includes the preceding vehicle V, is less than the illuminance of the second area R2, which does not include the preceding vehicle V, around the first area R1. The first area R1 is an area for reducing glare for the preceding vehicle V. The first area R1 is a so-called "dimming area" or "shading area". The second area R2 is an area in which the headlight 3 is illuminated more brightly than the first area R1, which includes the preceding vehicle V.

[0030] The illumination control area setting unit 11 sets the size of the blurred area R3 surrounding the first area R1 on the first area R1 side of the second area R2, based on user setting parameters or user operation of the vehicle occupant, as will be described in detail later. A blurred area R3 is provided on the first area R1 side of the second area R2 so as to surround the first area R1. The blurred area R3 is a region that gradually changes the amount of light (illuminance) of the light emitted from the headlight 3 to the front of the vehicle by not abruptly changing the set light intensity of the headlight 3 between the first and second light intensity. This illuminance in the blurred area R3 is achieved by setting the set light intensity of the headlight 3, which is a high-definition LED matrix, to a third light intensity such that it becomes brighter from the first light intensity to the second light intensity as it moves away from the first area R1. In other words, the blurring of light due to the light diffusion caused by the lens cut of headlight 3, and the blurring of light due to the natural diffusion of light from headlight 3 when the set light intensity is abruptly changed between the first and second light intensity levels, are different from changes in light in the blurring region R3.

[0031] The size of the blur area R3 can be set to switch between multiple levels, such as "blurred," "medium," and "sharp." For example, the size of the blur area R3 in Figure 2(a) corresponds to "sharp." The size of the blur area R3 in Figure 2(b) corresponds to "medium." The size of the blur area R3 in Figure 2(c) corresponds to "blurred." The size of the blur area R3 for "medium" is larger than the size of the blur area R3 for "sharp." The size of the blur area R3 for "blurred" is larger than the size of the blur area R3 for "medium."

[0032] The setting for the size of the blur area R3 may also include five levels, including "slightly blurred" and "slightly sharp." The size of the blur area R3 for "slightly sharp" is larger than the size of the blur area R3 for "sharp." The size of the blur area R3 for "medium" is larger than the size of the blur area R3 for "slightly sharp." The size of the blur area R3 for "slightly blurred" is larger than the size of the blur area R3 for "medium." The size of the blur area R3 for "blurred" is larger than the size of the blur area R3 for "slightly blurred."

[0033] The setting for the size of the blur area R3 is not limited to these examples; it may be switchable in any number of steps, or it may be continuously adjustable.

[0034] The light intensity setting unit 12 sets the set light intensity of the headlight 3 based on the set illumination control area. The light intensity setting unit 12 sets the first light intensity for the first area R1, the second light intensity for the second area R2, and the third light intensity for the blurring area R3. The set light intensity of the headlight 3 is a setting value corresponding to each part of the illumination control area of ​​the LED matrix of the headlight 3. For the sake of simplicity, the set light intensity of the headlight 3 is expressed as a percentage here.

[0035] The first light intensity in the first region R1 is, for example, 0% set light intensity (shading). The second light intensity in the second region R2 is brighter than the first light intensity, for example, 100% set light intensity. 100% set light intensity means that in the group of LEDs responsible for illuminating the second region R2, each LED is set to uniformly achieve maximum brightness within a predetermined rated brightness range.

[0036] The light intensity setting unit 12 sets the third light intensity of the blurred area R3 based on the user setting parameters or user operation of the vehicle occupant, as will be described in detail later. The third light intensity of the blurred area R3 is the set light intensity of the headlight 3 such that it becomes brighter from the first light intensity to the second light intensity. The third light intensity may be, for example, a set value of light intensity that gradually increases from 0% to 100%. A set light intensity greater than 0% and less than 100% is a set value of light intensity such that each LED in the group of LEDs responsible for illuminating the blurred area R3 is not uniformly lit but partially lit or turned off. The third light intensity may be a set light intensity that becomes monotonically brighter from the first light intensity to the second light intensity. The third light intensity may be a set light intensity that includes a portion where the light intensity is constant or a portion where the light intensity decreases during the process of becoming brighter from the first light intensity to the second light intensity.

[0037] The lighting control unit 13 controls the light distribution of the headlight 3 based on the illumination control area and the set light intensity. The lighting control unit 13 selects a group of LEDs from the LED matrix of the headlight 3 to be turned on or off at the set light intensity set according to each part of the illumination control area. The lighting control unit 13 performs adaptive high beam control by turning on or off the selected group of LEDs.

[0038] The lighting control unit 13 may select a group of LEDs to be turned off as the first light intensity of the first region R1, based on the lateral shading angles θrt and θLt and the vertical shading angles θut and θdt calculated by providing a shading size margin around the front vehicle region F, for example as in the example described later, so that they correspond to the inside of the outer edge of the first region R1 in the forward-imaging image IM.

[0039] The lighting control unit 13 can select a group of LEDs to be lit as the second light intensity of the second region R2 based on the above-mentioned light-shielding horizontal angles θrt and θLt, light-shielding vertical angles θut and θdt, and blur size angle value, which correspond to the outer edge of the first region R1, so as to correspond to the area outside the range extended from the outer edge of the first region R1 by the blur size angle value in the forward-imaging image IM.

[0040] The lighting control unit 13 can select LED groups to be partially lit or extinguished as the third light intensity of the blurred region R3, based on the above-mentioned light-shielding horizontal angles θrt and θLt, light-shielding vertical angles θut and θdt corresponding to the outer edge of the first region R1, and the blur size angle value, so as to correspond to the inside of the range extended from the outer edge of the first region R1 by the blur size angle value in the forward-imaging image IM. By partially lit or extinguished rather than uniformly lit by each LED group, the headlight 3 emits light with a brightness corresponding to the third light intensity of the blurred region R3. By using high-definition LEDs, the light emitted by the headlight 3 in the range corresponding to the blurred region R3 in front of the vehicle can be blurred so that the illuminance corresponds to the third light intensity.

[0041] [Setting the irradiation control area] A specific example of setting the illumination control area by the illumination control area setting unit 11 will be explained. Figure 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of the vehicle angles of the preceding vehicle in the forward-imaging image. Figure 3 is a forward-imaging image IM when the tail lamp TL, which is the light source of the preceding vehicle V, is captured by the camera. For example, in a forward-imaging image taken at night, the body of the preceding vehicle V may not actually be clearly visible, but in Figure 3, the body of the preceding vehicle V is shown for the sake of explanation.

[0042] The irradiation control area setting unit 11 acquires a forward-facing image IM based on the detection result of the external sensor 1 and recognizes the preceding vehicle V in the forward-facing image IM. The irradiation control area setting unit 11 calculates the vehicle angle of the recognized preceding vehicle V. The vehicle angle of the preceding vehicle V is a relative angle that represents the position of the preceding vehicle V as seen from the vehicle, with respect to a predetermined direction. In the example in Figure 3, the vehicle angle includes the right vehicle angle θr, the left vehicle angle θL, the center vehicle angle θm, the upper vehicle angle θu, and the lower vehicle angle θd.

[0043] The right vehicle angle θr is the lateral angle corresponding to the right end of the preceding vehicle V, relative to the vehicle's longitudinal axis. The lateral angle is the angle in the lateral direction relative to the vehicle's longitudinal axis. The left vehicle angle θL is the lateral angle corresponding to the left end of the preceding vehicle V, relative to the vehicle's longitudinal axis. The center vehicle angle θm is the lateral angle of the center of the preceding vehicle V in the lateral direction relative to the longitudinal axis. The upper vehicle angle θu is the vertical angle corresponding to the upper end of the preceding vehicle V, relative to the vehicle's longitudinal axis. The vertical angle is the angle in the vertical direction relative to the vehicle's longitudinal axis. The lower vehicle angle θd is the vertical angle corresponding to the lower end of the preceding vehicle V, relative to the vehicle's longitudinal axis.

[0044] As a specific example of vehicle angle calculation, the illumination control area setting unit 11 detects a light source based on the forward-facing image IM. The light source includes ambient light and light from other vehicles. Ambient light is light from streetlights and buildings, etc. Light from other vehicles is light from the preceding vehicle V. In the example in Figure 3, the light from other vehicles is, for example, the light from the taillight TL of the preceding vehicle V. Light from other vehicles may also be the headlights of an oncoming vehicle. The illumination control area setting unit 11 recognizes the type of detected light source (ambient light or light from other vehicles) by a well-known method.

[0045] The irradiation control area setting unit 11 calculates a forward vehicle area F, which is the area surrounding the preceding vehicle V in the forward image IM, based on the light source of the preceding vehicle V detected from the forward image IM. The outer edge of the forward vehicle area F is the shape that surrounds the preceding vehicle V (control target rectangular end). The shape of the forward vehicle area F may be, for example, rectangular, and may consist of a pair of sides extending horizontally and a pair of sides extending vertically. In the following description, the horizontal position of any point in the forward image IM is referred to as the "horizontal position," and the vertical position of the same point is referred to as the "vertical position."

[0046] The irradiation control area setting unit 11 calculates, for example, the lateral position Pr of the right edge of the front vehicle area F, the lateral position PL of the left edge of the front vehicle area F, the lateral position Pm of the center M of the front vehicle area F, the vertical position Pu of the upper edge of the front vehicle area F, and the vertical position Pd of the lower edge of the front vehicle area F. The lateral positions Pr, PL, and Pm are calculated, for example, as the length (number of pixels) in the lateral direction from the lateral position PfoeL of the vanishing point FOE [Focus Of Expansion] of the forward-imaging image IM. The vertical positions Pu and Pd are calculated, for example, as the length (number of pixels) in the vertical direction from the vertical position PfoeV of the vanishing point FOE.

[0047] The irradiation control area setting unit 11 calculates the right vehicle angle θr, left vehicle angle θL, center vehicle angle θm, upper vehicle angle θu, and lower vehicle angle θd by converting the horizontal position Pr, horizontal position PL, horizontal position Pm, vertical position Pu, and vertical position Pd into angles.

[0048] The lateral length LL of the forward-facing image IM corresponds to the camera's horizontal field of view. The camera's optical axis passes, for example, through the center of the vehicle's width direction (lateral direction) in the forward-facing image IM. The angle (lateral angle with respect to the longitudinal axis) corresponding to the lateral position PfoeL of the vanishing point FOE is defined, for example, as 0°. In this case, the right vehicle angle θr of the preceding vehicle V can be calculated by proportionally allocating the camera's horizontal field of view using the ratio of the lateral position Pr to the lateral length LL of the forward-facing image IM. The left vehicle angle θL of the preceding vehicle V can be calculated by proportionally allocating the camera's horizontal field of view using the ratio of the lateral position PL to the lateral length LL. The center vehicle angle θm of the preceding vehicle V can be calculated by proportionally allocating the camera's horizontal field of view using the ratio of the lateral position Pm to the lateral length LL.

[0049] The vertical length LV of the forward-imaging image IM corresponds to the vertical field of view of the camera. The optical axis of the camera is oriented such that, for example, the vanishing point FOE is located in the vertical center of the forward-imaging image IM. The angle (vertical angle with respect to the front-rear axis) corresponding to the vertical position PfoeV of the vanishing point FOE is defined as, for example, 0°. In this case, the upper vehicle angle θu of the preceding vehicle V can be calculated by proportionally allocating the camera's vertical field of view using the ratio of the vertical position Pu to the vertical length LV of the forward-imaging image IM. The lower vehicle angle θd of the preceding vehicle V can be calculated by proportionally allocating the vertical field of view using the ratio of the vertical position Pd to the vertical length LV.

[0050] The illumination control area setting unit 11 calculates the upper vehicle height angle and the lower vehicle height angle from the vehicle height angle of the preceding vehicle V, for example. The vehicle height angle of the preceding vehicle V is an angle that represents the range of the vehicle height of the preceding vehicle V as seen from the vehicle. The vehicle height angle can be calculated as the difference between the upper vehicle angle θu and the lower vehicle angle θd. The vehicle height angle corresponds to the vertical length of the preceding vehicle V (forward vehicle area F) in the forward-imaging image IM. The illumination control area setting unit 11 calculates the upper vehicle height angle and the lower vehicle height angle, for example, by half the value of the vehicle height angle. The upper vehicle height angle corresponds to the vertical length from the center M of the preceding vehicle V to the upper end of the forward vehicle area F. The lower vehicle height angle corresponds to the vertical length from the center M of the preceding vehicle V to the lower end of the forward vehicle area F.

[0051] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a first region including a vehicle ahead in a forward-facing image. As shown in Figures 2 and 4, the illumination control region setting unit 11 sets the illumination control region of the headlight 3, which includes a first region R1 and a second region R2, based on the vehicle ahead region F. First, as shown in Figure 4, the illumination control region setting unit 11 defines (sets) the first region R1 which includes the vehicle ahead V.

[0052] The illumination control area setting unit 11 defines the size of the first area R1 in the forward-imaging image IM by, for example, providing a light-shielding size margin MG so as to surround the forward vehicle area F in the forward-imaging image IM. The light-shielding size margin MG corresponds, for example, to the width dimension of the frame-shaped area provided around the forward vehicle area F in the forward-imaging image IM. The light-shielding size margin MG may also be a positive angle value added to the vehicle angle corresponding to the positions of the upper, lower, left, and right edges of the forward vehicle area F.

[0053] The light-shielding size margin MG includes, for example, a right light-shielding size margin MG1, a left light-shielding size margin MG2, an upper light-shielding size margin MG3, and a lower light-shielding size margin MG4. The right light-shielding size margin MG1 is a margin that extends the first region R1 to the right with respect to the horizontal position Pr of the right edge of the front vehicle region F in the forward-captured image IM. The left light-shielding size margin MG2 is a margin that extends the first region R1 to the left with respect to the horizontal position PL of the left edge of the front vehicle region F in the forward-captured image IM. The upper light-shielding size margin MG3 is a margin that extends the first region R1 upward with respect to the vertical position Pu of the upper edge of the front vehicle region F in the forward-captured image IM. The lower light-shielding size margin MG4 is a margin that extends the first region R1 downward with respect to the vertical position Pd of the lower edge of the front vehicle region F in the forward-captured image IM.

[0054] The illumination control area setting unit 11 calculates the size of the first area R1 by adding the angle of the light-shielding size margin MG to the vehicle angle for each of the up, down, left, and right directions. The illumination control area setting unit 11 calculates, for example, the horizontal light-shielding angle and the vertical light-shielding angle as angle values ​​that represent the range of the first area R1. The horizontal light-shielding angle is the horizontal angle that represents the range in the horizontal direction as viewed from the vehicle where the light emitted from the headlight 3 is at an illuminance (shielding) equivalent to the first light intensity. The vertical light-shielding angle is the vertical angle that represents the range in the vertical direction as viewed from the vehicle where the light emitted from the headlight 3 is at an illuminance (shielding) equivalent to the first light intensity. In the example in Figure 4, the horizontal light-shielding angle and the vertical light-shielding angle are the horizontal light-shielding angles θrt and θLt, and the vertical light-shielding angles θut and θdt.

[0055] Next, the irradiation control area setting unit 11 sets a second area R2 around the first area R1. As shown in Figure 2, the inner edge of the second area R2 may coincide with the outer edge of the first area R1. The outer edge of the second area R2 may correspond to the maximum irradiation range of the high beam of the headlight 3 outside the first area R1. The second area R2 may correspond to the entire area outside the first area R1.

[0056] The irradiation control area setting unit 11 sets the size of the blurred area R3 that surrounds the first area R1 on the first area R1 side of the second area R2. The shape of the blurred area R3 may be a frame that continuously surrounds the entire outer edge of the first area R1 by expanding outward from the outer edge of the first area R1, as shown in Figure 2. The irradiation control area setting unit 11 defines the size of the blurred area R3 by adding the blur size angle value BL to each target light shielding angle corresponding to the outer edge of the first area R1, for example. The blur size angle value BL is an angle that expresses the size of the blurred area R3 that is given to the periphery of the first area R1 as a relative angular range as seen from the vehicle.

[0057] The blur size angle value BL includes, for example, the right blur size angle value BL1, the left blur size angle value BL2, the upper blur size angle value BL3, and the lower blur size angle value BL4. The right blur size angle value BL1 is the angle value that expands the blur area R3 to the right with respect to the horizontal shading angle θrt corresponding to the position of the right edge of the first area R1. The left blur size angle value BL2 is the angle value that expands the blur area R3 to the left with respect to the horizontal shading angle θLt corresponding to the position of the left edge of the first area R1. The upper blur size angle value BL3 is the angle value that expands the blur area R3 upward with respect to the vertical shading angle θut corresponding to the position of the upper edge of the first area R1. The lower blur size angle value BL4 is the angle value that expands the blur area R3 downward with respect to the vertical shading angle θdt corresponding to the position of the lower edge of the first area R1.

[0058] The illumination control area setting unit 11 calculates the size of the blurred area R3 by adding the blur size angle value BL to the angle value representing the outer edge of the first area R1 for each of the up, down, left, and right directions. The illumination control area setting unit 11 calculates, for example, the blurred edge horizontal angle and the blurred edge vertical angle as angle values ​​representing the size of the blurred area R3. The blurred edge horizontal angle is the horizontal angle that represents the range in the horizontal direction as viewed from the vehicle where the set light intensity of the headlight 3 is set to the third light intensity. The blurred edge vertical angle is the horizontal angle that represents the range in the vertical direction as viewed from the vehicle where the set light intensity of the headlight 3 is set to the third light intensity. In the example in Figure 2, the range in which the set light intensity of the headlight 3 is set to the third light intensity by the blurred edge horizontal angle and the blurred edge vertical angle corresponds to the range outside the white dashed line and inside the black dashed line.

[0059] [User selection operation] The light-shielding size margin MG may be the sum of the basic margin and the occupant-set margin in each of the upper, lower, left, and right directions. The basic margin is a basic value of the light-shielding size margin MG that is determined independently of the occupant setting. The illumination control area setting unit 11 may calculate the basic margin as a parameter that has been set in advance corresponding to the right, left, upper, and lower sides of the forward vehicle area F. The illumination control area setting unit 11 may also calculate the basic margin by reading a predetermined map value that has been set in advance according to the width of the preceding vehicle V in each of the right and left sides of the forward vehicle area F. The illumination control area setting unit 11 may dynamically correct the basic margin based on at least one of the driving state of the preceding vehicle V and the driving state of the vehicle. The driving state of the preceding vehicle V may be, for example, the relative distance of the preceding vehicle V to the vehicle. The driving state of the preceding vehicle V may be the relative speed of the preceding vehicle V to the vehicle. The relative speed of the preceding vehicle V may be calculated from the detection result of the radar sensor and the detection result of the vehicle's speed sensor.

[0060] The occupant setting margin is a customized value of the light-shielding size margin MG determined by user operation. User operation is, for example, an operation by the occupant to select the occupant setting margin. The selection information includes information on the occupant setting margin selected according to the selection operation. The irradiation control area setting unit 11 acquires the occupant setting margin (selection information) according to the selection operation by the occupant as a user operation. The user operation here is a selection operation by the occupant operating the operation buttons or touch panel of the HMI2.

[0061] Similarly, the blur size angle value BL may be the product of the basic blur size angle value and the occupant-set blur size coefficient in each of the up, down, left, and right directions. The basic blur size angle value is the basic value of the blur size angle value BL, which is determined independently of the occupant setting. The illumination control area setting unit 11 may calculate the basic blur size angle value as a parameter that has been set in advance for each of the right, left, upper, and lower sides of the first area R1. The illumination control area setting unit 11 may also calculate the basic blur size angle value by reading a predetermined map value that has been set in advance according to the width of the preceding vehicle V in each of the right and left sides of the first area R1. The illumination control area setting unit 11 may also dynamically correct the basic blur size angle value based on at least one of the driving state of the preceding vehicle V and the driving state of the vehicle. The driving state of the preceding vehicle V may be, for example, the relative distance of the preceding vehicle V to the vehicle. The driving state of the preceding vehicle V may be the relative speed of the preceding vehicle V to the vehicle. The relative speed of the preceding vehicle V may be calculated from the detection results of the radar sensor and the detection results of the vehicle's speed sensor.

[0062] The crew-specific blur size coefficient is a customized value of the blur size angle value BL determined by user operation. User operation includes, for example, a crew member selecting the crew-specific blur size coefficient. The selection information includes information about the crew-specific blur size coefficient selected according to the selection operation.

[0063] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the display of the selection information acquisition unit. Figure 5 shows the operation panel image 20 (selection information acquisition unit) displayed on the HMI2's touch panel. At the top of the operation panel image 20, five operation button images 21 are displayed side by side from left to right: "Sharp," "Slightly Sharp," "Normal," "Slightly Blurry," and "Blurry."

[0064] Each of the five control button images 21 is assigned preset values ​​for the occupant setting margin and the occupant setting blur size coefficient. These preset values ​​are stored in the light distribution control ECU 10 in the order of increasing sequentially, with "sharp" as the minimum value, followed by "somewhat sharp," "normal," "somewhat blurry," and "blurry."

[0065] The occupant setting margins are pre-stored in the light distribution control ECU 10 as constant angle maps corresponding to the five operation button images: "Sharp," "Slightly Sharp," "Normal," "Slightly Blurry," and "Blurry," for example, as shown in Table 1 below. These margins include the right occupant setting margin, the left occupant setting margin, the upper occupant setting margin, and the lower occupant setting margin. In Table 1, θr1, θL1, θu1, and θd1, which correspond to "Blurry," are the largest angle values, and θr5, θL5, θu5, and θd5, which correspond to "Sharp," are the smallest angle values. The margins may also increase monotonically from θr5, θL5, θu5, and θd5 to θr1, θL1, θu1, and θd1. [Table 1]

[0066] The occupant setting blur size coefficients are pre-stored in the light distribution control ECU 10 as a constant map of coefficients corresponding to the five operation button images: "Sharp," "Slightly Sharp," "Normal," "Slightly Blurred," and "Blurred," for example, as shown in Table 2 below. These coefficients include the right occupant setting blur size coefficient, the left occupant setting blur size coefficient, the upper occupant setting blur size coefficient, and the lower right occupant setting blur size coefficient. In Table 2, Cr1, CL1, Cu1, Cd1, corresponding to "Blurred," have the largest coefficient values, while Cr5, CL5, Cu5, Cd5, corresponding to "Sharp," have the smallest angle values. The coefficients may also increase monotonically from Cr5, CL5, Cu5, Cd5 to Cr1, CL1, Cu1, Cd1. [Table 2]

[0067] Below the operation button image 21, a slide lever image 22 is displayed along with the text "Shading Size," which indicates the size of the crew setting margin. When the crew moves the lever portion 22a of the slide lever image 22 left or right, they can adjust the size of the crew setting margin within a predetermined range from "small" to "large." The position of the lever portion 22a may be movable between positions corresponding to the five preset values ​​mentioned above: "sharp," "somewhat sharp," "normal," "somewhat blurry," and "blurry." The position of the lever portion 22a may also be adjustable independently of the operation of the operation button image 21 and without corresponding to the five preset values ​​mentioned above.

[0068] Below the slide lever image 22, the slide lever image 23 is displayed along with the text "blur size," which indicates the size of the crew-set blur size coefficient. When the crew moves the lever portion 23a of the slide lever image 23 left or right, they can adjust the size of the crew-set blur size coefficient within a predetermined range from "small" to "large." The position of the lever portion 23a may be movable between positions corresponding to the five preset values ​​above: "sharp," "somewhat sharp," "normal," "somewhat blurry," and "blurry." The position of the lever portion 23a may be adjustable independently of the operation of the operation button image 21.

[0069] When an occupant touches any of the operation button images 21, both the occupant-set margin and the occupant-set blur size coefficient change in conjunction to the preset value corresponding to the touched operation button image 21. When the occupant-set margin and the occupant-set blur size coefficient change in conjunction, the position of the lever portion 22a of the slide lever image 22 and the position of the lever portion 23a of the slide lever image 23 both move in conjunction to correspond to their respective preset values. In other words, the operation of an occupant touching an operation button image 21 is a linked selection operation.

[0070] In this way, the irradiation control area setting unit 11 acquires the occupant setting margin and the occupant setting blur size coefficient as selection information corresponding to the occupant's selection operation. The occupant setting margin and the occupant setting blur size coefficient here are linked selection information corresponding to the occupant's linked selection operation when the occupant touches the operation button image 21. In other words, the linked selection information is selection information for setting the size of the blur area R3 and the size of the first area R1 in a linked manner. Based on the linked selection information corresponding to the occupant's linked selection operation, the irradiation control area setting unit 11 sets the size of the blur area R3 and the size of the first area R1 in a linked manner.

[0071] As described above, the size of the light-shielding size margin MG is determined according to the crew setting margin selected by the crew. The size of the first region R1 is determined according to the size of the light-shielding size margin MG. As the position of the outer edge of the first region R1 moves, the position of the inner edge of the second region R2 moves. As the position of the inner edge of the second region R2 moves, the inner edge of the blurring region R3 moves. In other words, the irradiation control region setting unit 11 sets the size of the blurring region R3 according to the light-shielding size margin MG determined by user operation.

[0072] Furthermore, the size of the blur size angle value BL is determined according to the occupant-set blur size coefficient selected by the occupant. The size of the blur area R3 is determined according to the size of the blur size angle value BL. As the position of the outer edge of the blur area R3 moves, the illumination range of the illumination light emitted from the headlight 3 toward the front of the vehicle changes, with the third light intensity set to the specified light intensity. In other words, the illumination control area setting unit 11 sets the size of the blur area R3 according to the blur size angle value BL determined by user operation.

[0073] Incidentally, the light intensity setting unit 12 may set the third light intensity of the blurring region R3 to increase linearly from 0% to 100% as it moves away from the first region R1. In this case, the set light intensity of the LED group responsible for illuminating the inner edge of the blurring region R3 (the outer edge of the first region R1) becomes 0%. The set light intensity of the LED group responsible for illuminating the outer edge of the blurring region R3 (the position corresponding to the blurring size angle value BL in the second region R2) becomes 100%. The set light intensity of the LED group responsible for illuminating the range from the inner edge of the blurring region R3 to the outer edge of the blurring region R3 may increase linearly in proportion to the distance from the LED group responsible for illuminating the inner edge of the blurring region R3 (the outer edge of the first region R1).

[0074] Alternatively, the light intensity setting unit 12 may set the third light intensity of the blurring region R3 to increase non-linearly from 0% to 100% as it moves away from the first region R1. In this case, the set light intensity of the LED group responsible for illuminating the range from the inner edge to the outer edge of the blurring region R3 may increase (for example, quadratically) as the distance from the LED group responsible for illuminating the inner edge of the blurring region R3 increases. Conversely, the set light intensity of the LED group responsible for illuminating the range from the inner edge to the outer edge of the blurring region R3 may increase (for example, logarithmically) as the distance from the LED group responsible for illuminating the inner edge of the blurring region R3 decreases.

[0075] The light intensity setting unit 12 may change the third light intensity of the blurred area R3 in conjunction with the user's operation to change the size of the blurred area R3. The light intensity setting unit 12 may also change the rate of change of the third light intensity of the blurred area R3 (the slope when it increases linearly) according to the distance between the inner edge and the outer edge of the blurred area R3 that has been changed by the user's operation. For example, when the size of the blurred area R3 increases, the rate of change of the third light intensity of the blurred area R3 may decrease in accordance with the increase in the distance between the inner edge and the outer edge of the blurred area R3. In this case, the illuminance in the blurred area R3 tends to appear lower, resulting in a state where it is more clearly blurred and visible. When the size of the blurred area R3 decreases, the rate of change of the third light intensity of the blurred area R3 may increase in accordance with the decrease in the distance between the inner edge and the outer edge of the blurred area R3. In this case, the illuminance tends to appear higher in the blurred area R3, resulting in a clearer and sharper view.

[0076] Note that the crew setting margin and crew setting blur size coefficient are not limited to the angle values ​​and coefficients shown in Tables 1 and 2 above. The crew setting margin and crew setting blur size coefficient may also be set by directly configuring each value via HMI2.

[0077] Alternatively, as shown in Figure 6, for example, the occupant setting margin and the occupant setting blur size coefficient may be configured to select the upper additional height and lower additional height, and the left additional width and right additional width according to the occupant's selection operation. Figure 6 shows an example in which distances corresponding to the occupant setting blur size are set above, below, and to the left and right of the outer edge of the first region R1. In Figure 6, the position of the point where multiple straight lines intersect to the left of the first region R1 corresponds to the position of the vehicle's headlight 3. This means that the light from the headlight 3 is irradiated as a blur region R3 within the range of the upper additional height and lower additional height, and the left additional width and right additional width.

[0078] The upper additional height and lower additional height, and the left additional width and right additional width can be coefficients per unit distance. In this case, the value obtained by multiplying the distance from the vehicle to the preceding vehicle V by the coefficient per unit distance may be added to the upper, lower, left, and right positions corresponding to the outer edge of the first region R1 to determine the positions corresponding to the outer edge of the blurred region R3.

[0079] [Operation of the light distribution control device] Next, the operation of the light distribution control device 100 will be described with reference to the drawings. Figure 7 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing of the light distribution control ECU in Figure 1. The processing of the ECU in Figure 7 may be performed, for example, when power is supplied to the light distribution control ECU 10 and the adaptive high beam control switch is turned on.

[0080] As shown in Figure 7, the light distribution control ECU 10 of the light distribution control device 100 performs the following steps in step S11: acquisition of a forward-facing image and acquisition of user-set parameters or user operations by the illumination control area setting unit 11. The illumination control area setting unit 11 acquires, for example, a forward-facing image IM captured by the vehicle's camera of the preceding vehicle V, and calculates the forward vehicle area F. The illumination control area setting unit 11 acquires, for example, selection information corresponding to the occupant's selection operation to set the size of the blurred area R3 as a user-set parameter or user operation.

[0081] In step S12, the light distribution control ECU 10 sets an illumination control area including the first and second areas using the illumination control area setting unit 11 (illumination control area setting step). The illumination control area setting unit 11 obtains the sum of the occupant setting margin and the occupant setting blur size coefficient by performing the process shown in Figure 8, for example. The illumination control area setting unit 11 sets the first area R1 and the second area R2 based on the forward vehicle area F and the sum of the basic margin and the occupant setting margin. The illumination control area setting unit 11 sets the size of the blur area R3 that surrounds the first area R1 on the first area R1 side in the second area R2 based on the product of the basic blur size angle value and the occupant setting blur size coefficient.

[0082] Figure 8 is a flowchart showing an example of the irradiation control area setting process in Figure 7. As shown in Figure 8, the light distribution control ECU 10, in step S21, acquires selection information corresponding to the user's selection operation via the irradiation control area setting unit 11. The irradiation control area setting unit 11 acquires selection information corresponding to the occupant's selection operation, for example, when the operation panel image 20 displayed on the HMI2's touch panel is operated by the occupant.

[0083] In step S22, the light distribution control ECU 10 determines, using the irradiation control area setting unit 11, whether a selection operation by the user is a linked selection operation. The irradiation control area setting unit 11 determines, for example, that if the operation button image 21 of the operation panel image 20 is operated by the occupant, the selection operation by the occupant is a linked selection operation. The irradiation control area setting unit 11 determines, for example, that if the lever portion 22a of the slide lever image 22 is operated by the occupant, or if the lever portion 23a of the slide lever image 23 is operated by the occupant, the selection operation by the occupant is not a linked selection operation (it is a selection operation).

[0084] If it is determined that the selection operation by the occupant is a linked selection operation (S22: YES), in step S23, the light distribution control ECU 10 sets the size of the blurred area R3 and the size of the first area R1 in a linked manner using the irradiation control area setting unit 11. The irradiation control area setting unit 11 changes the occupant setting margin and the occupant setting blur size coefficient in a linked manner, for example, and sets both the occupant setting margin and the occupant setting blur size coefficient.

[0085] In step S24, the light distribution control ECU 10 changes the display of the selection information acquisition unit in conjunction with each other using the irradiation control area setting unit 11. For example, the irradiation control area setting unit 11 changes the position of the lever portion 22a in the slide lever image 22 and the position of the lever portion 23a in the slide lever image 23 in conjunction with each other as the display of the selection information acquisition unit, based on the occupant setting margin and the occupant setting blur size coefficient which are changed in conjunction with each other in response to the operation of the operation button image 21 by the occupant. After that, the light distribution control ECU 10 finishes the process shown in Figure 8 and returns to the process shown in Figure 7.

[0086] On the other hand, if it is determined that the selection operation by the occupant is not a linked selection operation (but is a selection operation) (S22: NO), in step S25, the light distribution control ECU 10 sets the size of the blurred area R3 and the size of the first area R1, respectively, using the illumination control area setting unit 11. For example, when the lever portion 22a of the slide lever image 22 is operated by the occupant, the illumination control area setting unit 11 changes the occupant-set margin without linking it to the occupant-set blurred size coefficient, thereby setting both the occupant-set margin and the occupant-set blurred size coefficient. Alternatively, for example, when the lever portion 23a of the slide lever image 23 is operated by the occupant, the illumination control area setting unit 11 changes the occupant-set blurred size coefficient without linking it to the occupant-set margin, thereby setting both the occupant-set margin and the occupant-set blurred size coefficient.

[0087] In step S26, the light distribution control ECU 10 changes the display on the selection information acquisition unit using the irradiation control area setting unit 11. For example, the irradiation control area setting unit 11 individually changes the position of the lever portion 22a in the slide lever image 22 as the display on the selection information acquisition unit, based on the occupant setting margin which is changed independently of the occupant setting blur size coefficient in response to the occupant's operation of the lever portion 22a in the slide lever image 22. Alternatively, for example, the irradiation control area setting unit 11 individually changes the position of the lever portion 23a in the slide lever image 23 as the display on the selection information acquisition unit, based on the occupant setting blur size coefficient which is changed independently of the occupant setting margin in response to the occupant's operation of the lever portion 23a in the slide lever image 23. After that, the light distribution control ECU 10 finishes the process shown in Figure 8 and returns to the process shown in Figure 7.

[0088] Returning to the process in Figure 7, in step S13, the light distribution control ECU 10 sets the first light intensity, second light intensity, and third light intensity as set light intensity using the light intensity setting unit 12 (light intensity setting step). The light intensity setting unit 12 sets, for example, the first light intensity for the first region R1, the second light intensity for the second region R2 which is brighter than the first light intensity, and the third light intensity for the blurring region R3 which is brighter from the first light intensity to the second light intensity, based on the set irradiation control region.

[0089] In step S14, the light distribution control ECU 10 controls the light distribution of the headlights based on the illumination control area and the set light intensity, as performed by the lighting control unit 13 (lighting control step). The lighting control unit 13 selects, for example, a group of LEDs from the LED matrix of the headlight 3 to be turned on or off at set light intensity levels (first light intensity, second light intensity, and third light intensity) according to each part of the set illumination control area (first area R1, second area R2, and blurring area R3). The lighting control unit 13 performs adaptive high beam control by turning on or off the selected group of LEDs. After that, the light distribution control ECU 10 terminates the process shown in Figure 7. The light distribution control ECU 10 may repeat the process shown in Figure 7 at predetermined intervals.

[0090] [Light distribution control program] The light distribution control program causes the light distribution control ECU 10 (computer) to function (operate) as the illumination control area setting unit 11, light intensity setting unit 12, and lighting control unit 13 described above. The light distribution control program is provided, for example, by a non-temporary recording medium such as ROM or semiconductor memory. The light distribution control program may also be provided via communication such as a network.

[0091] [Effects and Effects] Here, the size of the blurred area R3 is a matter of individual preference for each crew member. Furthermore, if the size of the blurred area R3 were constant, it could cause discomfort for crew members whose preferences for that size are not met.

[0092] In this regard, according to the light distribution control device 100, the control method for the light distribution control device, and the light distribution control program, the size of the blurred area R3 surrounding the first area R1 on the first area R1 side in the second area R2 is set based on the user operation of the vehicle user. At least the size of the blurred area R3 can be adjusted according to the user operation. Therefore, compared to the case where the size of the blurred area R3 is constant, it is easier to reduce discomfort for the occupants. Accordingly, according to the light distribution control device 100, the control method for the light distribution control device, and the light distribution control program, the light distribution of the headlights can be controlled to reduce discomfort for the occupants.

[0093] In the light distribution control device 100, the control method for the light distribution control device, and the light distribution control program, selection information is acquired in response to a selection operation by the occupant to set the size of the blurred area R3 as a user operation. This allows the occupant to adjust the size of the blurred area R3 by making selection operations according to their individual preferences.

[0094] In the light distribution control device 100, the control method for the light distribution control device, and the light distribution control program, the size of the first region R1 is set based on user operation. By adjusting the size of the first region R1 according to user operation, the size of the blurred region R3 changes on the first region R1 side. Therefore, it becomes easier for the occupants to recognize the change in the size of the blurred region R3.

[0095] In the light distribution control device 100, the control method for the light distribution control device, and the light distribution control program, as a user operation, linked selection information is acquired in response to a linked selection operation by the occupant to set the size of the blurred area R3 and the size of the first area R1 in a linked manner. By adjusting the size of the blurred area R3 and the size of the first area R1 in a linked manner, the occupant's selection operation is made easier, and the occupant becomes more aware of the change in the size of the blurred area R3.

[0096] Incidentally, if the size of the blurred area is not changed, and only the set light intensity corresponding to the blurred area is changed, in a real environment, occupants tend not to be very sensitive to visually perceiving changes in the light intensity of the blurred area. Due to this tendency, even if an occupant changes only the set light intensity without changing the size of the blurred area, they may not perceive the change in light intensity of the blurred area very well and may feel uncomfortable. According to the above-described light distribution control device 100, the control method for the light distribution control device, and the light distribution control program, the size of the blurred area changes instead of, or along with, a change in the light intensity of the blurred area. As a result, by visually confirming that the size of the blurred area has changed, occupants can more easily perceive that their user operation has been reflected in the adaptive high beam control, thereby reducing discomfort for the occupants.

[0097] While embodiments of this disclosure have been described above, this disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described above. This disclosure can be implemented in various forms, including the embodiments described above, with various modifications and improvements based on the knowledge of those skilled in the art.

[0098] In the above embodiment, the illumination control area setting unit 11 sets the size of the blurred area R3 surrounding the first area R1 on the first area R1 side of the second area R2 based on the user operation of the vehicle user, but it is not limited to this example. For example, the illumination control area setting unit may set the size of the blurred area R3 based on the user setting parameters of the vehicle user. The user setting parameters may be setting information stored for each occupant. The setting information is information for defining the first area, the second area, and the blurred area, such as the light shielding size margin and the blur size angle value. The user setting parameters can be setting information stored for each occupant, which are parameters that have been adjusted by acquiring selection information in response to selection operations by occupants in the past. In this case, the illumination control area setting unit may identify occupants based on images captured by the driver monitor camera, for example. The illumination control area setting unit may store user setting parameters that have been adjusted in response to selection operations by occupants in the past and use the user setting parameters corresponding to the identified occupant. This eliminates the need for crew members to perform the same adjustments again. User-defined parameters stored for each crew member may be provided stored on a storage medium.

[0099] In the above embodiment, the light-shielding size margin MG was a positive angle value added to the vehicle angle corresponding to the positions of the upper, lower, left, and right edges of the front vehicle area F, but the example is not limited to this. The light-shielding size margin may be an additional height and additional width as described in Figure 6 instead of an angle value, or it may be obtained by multiplying a predetermined basic margin by a coefficient.

[0100] In the above embodiment, the size of the blurred area was defined by multiplying the basic blur size angle value by the occupant-set blur size coefficient, but the example is not limited to this. The size of the blurred area may also be defined by adding an angle value that gives the size of the blurred area to the vehicle angle corresponding to the upper, lower, left, and right positions of the outer edge of the first area.

[0101] In the above embodiment, the user's selection operation was exemplified as a selection operation by an occupant, but the system is not limited to this example. For example, the user may be an operator remotely controlling the vehicle. The vehicle may be an autonomous vehicle that can be remotely controlled. In this case, the remote operator may perform the selection operation via a remote control device or the like.

[0102] In the above embodiment, the user selection operation was exemplified as a selection operation by the crew, but the invention is not limited to this example. The shape of the blurred region R3 was a frame shape that continuously encloses the entire outer edge of the first region R1 by expanding outward from the outer edge of the first region R1, but the invention is not limited to this example. For example, the shape of the blurred region may be a shape (e.g., U-shaped) that encloses the entire outer edge of the first region R1 with a part of it being discontinuous along the outer edge of the first region R1. The blurred region R3 may be a shape that encloses the first region R1 on the side of the first region R1 in the second region R2.

[0103] In the above embodiment, the first light intensity in the first region R1 was set to 0% (shading), but the example is not limited to this. The first light intensity in the first region may be a set light intensity that is less than the second light intensity in the second region R2, rather than shading. The second light intensity in the second region R2 was set to 100%, but the example is not limited to this. The second light intensity in the second region may be brighter than the first light intensity and less than 100%.

[0104] The illumination control area setting unit 11 may correct the size of the blurred area, which is set based on user-defined parameters or user operation, according to weather conditions. For example, the size of the blurred area that is least noticeable to the user may differ depending on different weather conditions such as rain, fog, and snow. The illumination control area setting unit 11 may detect weather conditions using known methods, such as the detection results of the external sensor 1. The illumination control area setting unit 11 may store user-defined parameters for each different weather condition and use the user-defined parameters corresponding to the detected weather conditions.

[0105] The irradiation control area setting unit 11 may correct the size of the blurred area, which is set based on user-defined parameters or user operation, according to the direction or type of the vehicle ahead. For example, depending on the direction of travel of different vehicles ahead, such as oncoming vehicles and vehicles crossing in front, in addition to the preceding vehicle in the above embodiment, the size of the blurred area that causes the user least discomfort may differ. Depending on the type of vehicle ahead, such as four-wheeled vehicles, two-wheeled vehicles, and large vehicles, the size of the blurred area that causes the user least discomfort may differ. The irradiation control area setting unit 11 may detect the direction or type of the vehicle ahead using known methods, such as the detection results of the external sensor 1. The irradiation control area setting unit 11 may store user-defined parameters for each different direction or type of vehicle ahead and use the user-defined parameters corresponding to the detected direction or type of vehicle ahead. [Explanation of symbols]

[0106] 3...Headlight, 10...Light distribution control ECU (computer), 11...Irradiation control area setting unit, 12...Light intensity setting unit, 13...Light control unit, 100...Light distribution control device.

Claims

1. A light distribution control device that controls the light distribution of headlights illuminating the area in front of a vehicle, A beam control area setting unit sets a beam control area for the headlights, which includes a first area including the vehicle in front of the vehicle and a second area around the first area that does not include the vehicle in front, based on the forward-facing image captured by the vehicle's onboard camera. A light intensity setting unit sets the set light intensity of the headlight based on the irradiation control region, The system includes a lighting control unit that controls the light distribution of the headlights based on the irradiation control region and the set light intensity, The irradiation control area setting unit sets the size of the blurring area surrounding the first area on the first area side of the second area based on the user setting parameters or user operation of the vehicle user. The light intensity setting unit sets a first light intensity for the first region, a second light intensity for the second region which is brighter than the first light intensity, and a third light intensity for the blurring region which becomes brighter from the first light intensity to the second light intensity as it moves away from the first region.

2. The light distribution control device according to claim 1, wherein the irradiation control area setting unit acquires selection information corresponding to a selection operation by the user to set the size of the blurred area as a user setting parameter or user operation.

3. The light distribution control device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the irradiation control area setting unit sets the size of the first area based on the user setting parameter or the user operation.

4. The light distribution control device according to claim 3, wherein the irradiation control area setting unit acquires linked selection information in response to a linked selection operation by the user for setting the size of the blurred area and the size of the first area in a linked manner, as a user setting parameter or user operation.

5. A control method for a light distribution control device that controls the light distribution of a headlight that illuminates the area in front of a vehicle, A beam control area setting step in which the beam control device sets a beam control area for the headlights, which includes a first area including the vehicle in front of the vehicle and a second area around the first area that does not include the vehicle in front, based on a forward-facing image captured by the vehicle's onboard camera, A light intensity setting step in which the light intensity of the headlight is set by the light distribution control device based on the irradiation control region, The lighting control step includes controlling the light distribution of the headlights using the light distribution control device based on the irradiation control area and the set light quantity, In the irradiation control area setting step, the size of the blurring area surrounding the first area on the first area side of the second area is set based on the user setting parameters or user operation of the vehicle user. A control method for a light distribution control device, wherein the light intensity setting step involves setting a first light intensity for the first region, a second light intensity for the second region which is brighter than the first light intensity, and a third light intensity for the blurring region which becomes brighter from the first light intensity to the second light intensity as it moves away from the first region.

6. A light distribution control program that causes a computer to function as a light distribution control device that controls the light distribution of headlights illuminating the area in front of a vehicle, wherein the light distribution control program causes the computer to A beam control area setting unit sets a beam control area for the headlights, which includes a first area including the vehicle in front of the vehicle and a second area around the first area that does not include the vehicle in front, based on the forward-facing image captured by the vehicle's onboard camera. A light intensity setting unit sets the set light intensity of the headlight based on the aforementioned irradiation control region. It functions as a lighting control unit that controls the light distribution of the headlights based on the irradiation control area and the set light intensity. The irradiation control area setting unit sets the size of the blurring area surrounding the first area on the first area side of the second area based on the user setting parameters or user operation of the vehicle user. The light intensity setting unit is a light distribution control program that sets a first light intensity for the first region, a second light intensity for the second region which is brighter than the first light intensity, and a third light intensity for the blurring region which becomes brighter from the first light intensity to the second light intensity as it moves away from the first region.

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