control device

Abstract

The system provides a control device that can select playback content suitable for the user riding the vehicle. [Solution] The memory unit stores multiple playback content CTs. Playback content CTs are content in which multiple videos are switched and displayed on the screen. The execution unit acquires user information US of a user riding in the vehicle. Based on the acquired user information US, the execution unit selects a specific content CS from among the multiple playback content CTs. The execution unit displays a video on the screen by playing the selected specific content CS.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a control device.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 describes a multimedia content display device. When a display mode is selected, the multimedia content display device displays a video in the display mode.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] By the way, a multimedia content display device as described in Patent Document 1 may use, as a control device, a display mounted on a vehicle as a control target. Such a control device may store content for playback. The content for playback is content in which a plurality of videos are switched and displayed on the display. However, there is a possibility that the control device cannot play back content for playback suitable for the user riding in the vehicle.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] A control device for solving the above problems is a control device for controlling output to a display mounted on a vehicle, comprising a storage unit and an execution unit, wherein the storage unit stores a plurality of playback content, the playback content is content in which a plurality of videos are switched and displayed on the display, and the execution unit acquires user information of a user riding in the vehicle, selects a specific content from the plurality of playback content based on the acquired user information, and outputs the video to the display by playing the selected specific content. [Effects of the Invention]

[0006] The control device can display videos suitable for the user by playing content selected based on user information. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0007] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing a vehicle according to one embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is an explanatory diagram showing the playback content of the embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a flowchart showing a series of processes, including the selection and playback of content for playback, according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a series of flowcharts showing the process related to controlling the display of the display in the embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram showing the start image included in the demonstration mode start video of the same embodiment. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram showing a stationary image included in a stationary video of the same embodiment. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram showing the first guide image included in the parked vehicle video of the same embodiment. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram showing the first in-run image included in the first in-run video of the embodiment. [Figure 9]Figure 8 is a schematic diagram showing the second guide image included in the first driving video of the same embodiment. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a schematic diagram showing images taken during driver assistance included in a video of the driver assistance system in the same embodiment. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a schematic diagram showing the third guide image included in the driving assistance video of the same embodiment. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is a schematic diagram showing an image taken during charging, which is included in the charging video of the same embodiment. [Figure 13] Figure 13 is a schematic diagram showing the fourth guide image included in the charging video of the same embodiment. [Figure 14] Figure 14 is a schematic diagram showing a second in-run image included in the second in-run video of the same embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0008] An embodiment of the control device will be described below with reference to the drawings. <Vehicle Overview> As shown in Figure 1, the vehicle 10 is equipped with a charging port 21, a charging device 22, a battery 23, and a drive motor 24. The vehicle 10 is an electric vehicle.

[0009] The charging port 21 is connected to an external charging connector 90 of the vehicle 10. When the charging connector 90 is connected to the charging port 21, the battery 23 is ready to be charged from an external power source of the vehicle 10.

[0010] The drive motor 24 is the power source for the vehicle 10. The drive motor 24 uses the power stored in the battery 23 to drive the vehicle 10. The battery 23 stores the power to drive the drive motor 24.

[0011] The charging device 22 includes a relay that switches between connecting and disconnecting the power path from the charging port 21 to the battery 23, and a power conversion circuit. The battery 23 is charged when the charging device 22 is controlled.

[0012] Vehicle 10 includes a braking device 31 and a steering device 32. The braking device 31 mechanically brakes the wheels of the vehicle 10. The braking device 31 is a so-called mechanical brake. For example, the braking device 31 is a disc brake.

[0013] The steering device 32 is a rack & pinion type electric power steering system. The steering device 32 can change the direction of the steering wheels of the vehicle 10 by controlling a rack and a pinion (not shown).

[0014] Vehicle 10 includes a display 41 and a speaker 42. The display 41 is mounted on the vehicle 10. The display 41 is positioned so that the driver of the vehicle 10 can visually recognize it while the vehicle 10 is running. In this embodiment, the display 41 is a center display. The display 41 displays images and videos. The speaker 42 outputs sound inside the vehicle 10.

[0015] Vehicle 10 includes a user information acquisition device 43. The user information acquisition device 43 acquires user information US, which is information about the users riding in the vehicle 10. The user information acquisition device 43 includes a camera that images the interior of the vehicle 10.

[0016] Based on the images captured by the camera, the user information acquisition device 43 calculates, as user information US, information indicating the number of users riding in the vehicle 10, information indicating the gender of each user, and information indicating the age group of each user. The user information acquisition device 43 outputs the acquired user information US to the control device 70.

[0017] Vehicle 10 includes a plurality of sensors 50, a plurality of operators 60, and a control device 70. The plurality of sensors 50 are, for example, a vehicle speed sensor, a shift position sensor, a sonar, and a camera sensor. In FIG. 1, only two of the plurality of sensors 50 are shown. The sensor 50 outputs a detection signal to the control device 70.

[0018] The control unit 60 is operable by the driver while the vehicle 10 is in motion. The control unit 60 is operated to realize the functions necessary for the vehicle 10 to operate. The functions necessary for the vehicle 10 to operate include the driving function, the charging function, and the driver assistance function. When the control unit 60 detects that it has been operated, it outputs an operation signal to the control device 70.

[0019] The multiple control elements 60 include an accelerator pedal 61 and a brake pedal 62. The accelerator pedal 61 is operated by the driver pressing it with their foot when adjusting the acceleration while the vehicle 10 is in motion. In other words, the accelerator pedal 61 is operated to realize the function of driving the vehicle 10.

[0020] The brake pedal 62 is operated by the driver pressing it with their foot when adjusting the deceleration while the vehicle 10 is in motion. In other words, the brake pedal 62 is operated to enable the vehicle 10 to stop, which is one of the driving functions.

[0021] Vehicle 10 is equipped with a steering wheel 63. The steering wheel 63 has a wheel body 64, a plurality of switches 65, a first touch display 66, and a second touch display 67. The wheel body 64 is operated when the driver adjusts the steering angle while the vehicle 10 is in motion. In other words, the wheel body 64 is operated to realize the function of turning, which is one of the driving functions of the vehicle 10.

[0022] Switch 65 is operated by the driver pressing it while the vehicle 10 is in motion. For example, when switch 65 is operated, the turn signal lamps and hazard lights of the vehicle 10 flash. In other words, switch 65 is operated to activate the functions of the vehicle 10 that are necessary while it is in motion.

[0023] The first touch display 66 is located near the wheel body 64. The first touch display 66 is operated by the driver touching it while the vehicle 10 is in motion. The first touch display 66 displays, for example, the operation screen for the driver assistance functions described later. In other words, the first touch display 66 is operated to realize the driving functions of the vehicle 10.

[0024] The second touch display 67 is located near the wheel body 64. The second touch display 67 is operated by the driver touching it while the vehicle 10 is in motion. The second touch display 67 displays, for example, a screen that allows the driver to select the driving mode of the vehicle 10. The driving modes are, for example, eco mode and sport mode. In other words, the second touch display 67 is operated to enable the driving functions of the vehicle 10.

[0025] In this embodiment, the first touch display 66 is located on the driver's side of the vehicle 10, closer to the front side window, relative to the wheel body 64. The second touch display 67 is located on the passenger side of the vehicle 10, relative to the wheel body 64.

[0026] The multiple control elements 60 include a wheel body 64, a switch 65, a first touch display 66, and a second touch display 67. The multiple control elements 60 also include a charging operation button 68.

[0027] The charging operation button 68 is located near the driver's seat of the vehicle 10. When the charging operation button 68 is operated as prescribed, the charging port 21 becomes connectable to the charging connector 90 outside the vehicle 10. Specifically, when the charging operation button 68 is operated, the control device 70 opens the cover that covers the connection port of the charging port 21. The charging operation button 68 can only be used when the vehicle 10 is not moving, or when the vehicle 10 is moving at a predetermined speed or below. In other words, the charging operation button 68 is operated to enable the charging function of the vehicle 10.

[0028] <Control device> The control device 70 controls charging, driving, driver assistance, and multimedia output in the vehicle 10. The control device 70 comprises an execution device 71, which is a CPU, and a storage device 72, which is memory. The storage device 72 stores various programs to be executed by the execution device 71. By executing these various programs, the execution device 71 controls charging, driving, driver assistance, and multimedia output in the vehicle 10. The execution device 71 is the execution unit. The storage device 72 is the storage unit.

[0029] The control device 70 controls the charging of the vehicle 10. When the charging operation button 68 is pressed as specified, the control device 70 opens the cover of the charging port 21. Next, when the control device 70 detects that the charging connector 90 has been connected to the charging port 21, it controls the charging device 22 to start charging the battery 23. The control device 70 then controls the charging device 22 to end charging the battery 23, referring to the charge level of the battery 23.

[0030] The control device 70 controls the movement of the vehicle 10. The control device 70 drives the drive motor 24 using the power stored in the battery 23. The control device 70 controls the output of the drive motor 24 based on the amount of operation of the accelerator pedal 61. The control device 70 controls the output of the brake device 31 based on the amount of operation of the brake pedal 62. The control device 70 controls the steering device 32 based on the amount of operation of the wheel body 64.

[0031] The control device 70 controls the driving assistance of the vehicle 10. The control device 70 can implement multiple functions included in the Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS). The multiple functions included in ADAS include PCS (Pre-Crash Safety) and ACC (Adaptive Cruise Control). Detailed explanations of the specific implementation methods of each function are omitted. The control device 70 implements various functions based on detection signals from the sensor 50. Detailed explanations of the specific implementation methods of each function are omitted.

[0032] The control device 70 controls the output of multimedia content from the vehicle 10. In particular, the control device 70 controls the output to the display 41 and speaker 42 when the vehicle 10 is not in motion and is in display mode.

[0033] The storage device 72 stores an output program PR for the output of multimedia content in the vehicle 10's display mode. The storage device 72 also stores multiple playback content CTs.

[0034] The playback content CT is content for playing multimedia content. The playback content CT includes multiple video files DA. The video files DA are data files for playing videos. The playback content CT is content in which multiple video files DA are switched and displayed on the display 41 at predetermined time intervals.

[0035] The video file DA, when output to the display 41, includes sound data to be output to the speaker 42. The image data includes multiple images in a time series sequence. The sound data includes, for example, data indicating music that matches the time series of the image data.

[0036] Furthermore, the storage device 72 stores multiple playback content CTs. These multiple playback content CTs include a first playback content CT1, a second playback content CT2, a third playback content CT3, and a fourth playback content CT4. The first playback content CT1 is content that proceeds according to a standard scenario.

[0037] As shown in Figure 2, the first playback content CT1 includes a plurality of video files DA. These video files DA include a first file D1 for playing the exhibition mode start video M1, a second file D2 for playing the stationary video M2, and a third file D3 for playing the first driving video M3. These video files DA also include a fourth file D4 for playing the driving assistance video M4, and a fifth file D5 for playing the charging video M5. These video files DA also include a sixth file D6 for playing the second driving video M6, and a seventh file D7 for playing the exhibition mode end video M7. Thus, in this embodiment, the first playback content CT1 stores seven video files DA.

[0038] In this embodiment, the combination of the first video and the second video in the first playback content CT1 is as follows (6 cases). In the first combination, the exhibition mode start video M1 is the first video, and the first file D1 is the first video file for playing the first video. In this case, the parked video M2 is the second video, and the second file D2 is the second video file for playing the second video.

[0039] In the second combination, the stationary video M2 is the first video, and the second file D2 is the first video file. In this case, the first driving video M3 is the second video, and the third file D3 is the second video file.

[0040] In the third combination, the first driving video M3 is the first video, and the third file D3 is the first video file. In this case, the driving assistance video M4 is the second video, and the fourth file D4 is the second video file.

[0041] In the fourth combination, the driving assistance video M4 is the first video, and the fourth file D4 is the first video file. In this case, the charging video M5 is the second video, and the fifth file D5 is the second video file.

[0042] In the fifth combination, the charging video M5 is the first video, and the fifth file D5 is the first video file. In this case, the second driving video M6 is the second video, and the sixth file D6 is the second video file.

[0043] In the sixth combination, the second running video M6 is the first video, and the sixth file D6 is the first video file. At this time, the exhibition mode ending video M7 is the second video, and the seventh file D7 is the second video file.

[0044] The first driving video M3, the driving assistance video M4, and the second driving video M6 are all images that simulate the state of vehicle 10 while it is in motion, as will be described later. Therefore, in the second through sixth combinations, at least one of the first video and the second video is an image that simulates the state of vehicle 10 while it is in motion.

[0045] Details of the second playback content CT2, the third playback content CT3, and the fourth playback content CT4 will not be explained, but the multiple playback content CTs differ from each other in whole or in part.

[0046] The second playback content, CT2, is content that progresses through a scenario for multiple users, including children. The third playback content, CT3, is content that progresses through a scenario simulating high-speed driving. The fourth playback content, CT4, is content that progresses through a scenario simulating city driving.

[0047] <Selecting and playing content> When an operation is performed in vehicle 10 to start displaying in multimedia display mode, the execution device 71 starts executing the output program PR, provided that vehicle 10 is not in motion. Once the execution device 71 starts executing the output program PR, it selects and plays the playback content CT based on the user information US. The execution device 71 determines that vehicle 10 is not in motion if the vehicle's shift position is in parking and the vehicle speed is zero.

[0048] As shown in Figure 3, when the execution device 71 starts executing the output program PR, the execution device 71 first performs the process in step S11. In step S11, the execution device 71 obtains user information US from the user information acquisition device 43. After that, the execution device 71 proceeds to step S12.

[0049] In step S12, the execution device 71 selects a specific content CS, which is one of several playback content CTs, from among the user information US. The execution device 71 calculates a value representing the specific content CS as an output value, using the user information US as an input value to a map that has been predetermined by testing or simulation.

[0050] For example, if the execution device 71 has one user in the user information US and the user is female, it selects the fourth playback content CT4 as the specific content CS, regardless of age group.

[0051] When the execution device 71 finds that there is one user in the user information US and the user is male, it selects the third playback content CT3 as the specific content CS, regardless of the age group.

[0052] The execution device 71 selects the third playback content CT3 as the specified content CS, regardless of the user's gender, when the number of users in the user information US is two or more and includes users under the age of 10.

[0053] The execution device 71 selects the first playback content CT1 as the specific content CS, regardless of the user's gender, if the number of users in the user information US is two or more and does not include any users under the age of 10. The execution device 71 then proceeds to step S13.

[0054] In step S13, the execution device 71 starts playing the specific content CS selected in step S12. The detailed processing when the specific content CS is played will be described later. After that, the execution device 71 proceeds to step S14.

[0055] In step S14, the execution device 71 determines whether the specific content CS has been completed. Specifically, the execution device 71 determines that the specific content CS has been completed when all of the scenarios of the specific content CS have been completed, that is, when the playback of the last video has been completed.

[0056] When the specific content CS is completed (S14:YES), the execution device 71 terminates this series of processes. On the other hand, when the specific content CS is not completed (S14:NO), the execution device 71 proceeds to step S15.

[0057] In step S15, the execution device 71 determines whether a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of playback of the specific content CS. The predetermined time is a time predetermined by tests and simulations, which is the time during which the progress of the scenario of the specific content CS is considered to be stalled. If the predetermined time has not elapsed (S15: NO), the execution device 71 returns to step S14. On the other hand, if the predetermined time has elapsed (S15: YES), the execution device 71 terminates this series of processes.

[0058] <Details on playing specific content> When playback of the specific content CS begins as a result of the process in step S14 described above, the execution device 71 performs a series of processes for multimedia output using multiple video files DA. In the following explanation, it is assumed that the first playback content CT1 is selected as the specific content CS.

[0059] <Video showing the start of exhibition mode> As shown in Figure 4, when the execution device 71 starts executing the output program PR, it first performs the process in step S21. In step S21, the execution device 71 plays the exhibition mode start video M1. Specifically, the execution device 71 displays the image indicated by the image data contained in the first file D1 for playing the exhibition mode start video M1 on the display 41, and outputs the sound indicated by the sound data contained in the first file D1 to the speaker 42.

[0060] As shown in Figure 5, the exhibition mode initiation video M1 includes an initiation image IM1 indicating the start of the exhibition mode. The initiation image IM1 includes an exterior image IP1 showing the exterior of the vehicle 10. For example, the exhibition mode initiation video M1 is a video that shows the exterior of the vehicle 10 from different directions by changing chronologically in the order of images viewed from the front, the right side, the rear, and the left side.

[0061] As shown in Figure 4, after the execution device 71 displays the exhibition mode start video M1, it stops playing the exhibition mode start video M1 after a predetermined period of time has elapsed. After that, the execution device 71 proceeds to step S22.

[0062] In step S22, the execution device 71 plays the parked video M2. Specifically, the execution device 71 displays the image shown by the image data contained in the second file D2 for playing the parked video M2 on the display 41, and outputs the sound shown by the sound data contained in the second file D2 to the speaker 42.

[0063] <Video of the vehicle while stopped> As shown in Figure 6, the stationary video M2 includes a stationary image IM2 that simulates the view from the driver's seat when the vehicle 10 is stopped. The stationary image IM2 is a driver's view image as seen from the driver's seat of the vehicle 10. The driver's view image is an image of the area in front of the driver's seat of the vehicle 10, including a steering wheel image V63 showing the steering wheel 63 and a partial image IP2 showing a part of the windshield of the vehicle 10. The driver's view image is also an image of the area in front of the driver's seat of the vehicle 10, including a partial image IP3 showing a part of the front side window of the vehicle 10 on the driver's side. The steering wheel image V63 includes a wheel body image V64 showing the wheel body 64 and a switch image V65 showing the switch 65. The steering wheel image V63 also includes a first touch display image V66 showing the first touch display 66 and a second touch display image V67 showing the second touch display 67. The stationary image IM2 shows the driver's hands gripping the wheel assembly 64.

[0064] As shown in Figure 7, the stationary video M2 includes the first guide image IM3, which is chronologically later than the stationary image IM2. The first guide image IM3, like the stationary image IM2, is an image from the driver's point of view. The first guide image IM3 is an image indicating the operation of the first specific operator 60A, which is a predetermined operator 60 for switching to the next video in the stationary video M2.

[0065] The first specific operator 60A is an operator 60 for switching the display to the next video when the stationary video M2 is being displayed. In this embodiment, the first specific operator 60A is the first touch display 66. The first guide image IM3 includes a partial image IP4 that guides the user to operate the first touch display 66. Specifically, the partial image IP4 shows the driver's right hand operating the first touch display 66, which is the first specific operator 60A.

[0066] In the time-series sequence of images in the stationary video M2, the image showing the scenery outside the vehicle 10 does not change. Specifically, the time-series sequence of images in the stationary video M2 does not include any images showing the scenery outside the vehicle 10.

[0067] As shown in Figure 4, after displaying the parked vehicle video M2 in step S22, the execution device 71 proceeds to step S23. In step S23, the execution device 71 determines whether or not the first specific operator 60A has been operated. If the first specific operator 60A, i.e., the first touch display 66, has not been operated (S23: NO), the execution device 71 repeats the process in step S23. On the other hand, if the first specific operator 60A has been operated (S23: YES), the execution device 71 proceeds to step S24. The parked vehicle video M2 continues to play until a positive determination is made in step S23.

[0068] In step S24, the execution device 71 plays the first driving video M3 instead of the stationary video M2. Specifically, the execution device 71 displays the image shown by the image data contained in the third file D3 for playing the first driving video M3 on the display 41, and outputs the sound shown by the sound data contained in the third file D3 to the speaker 42.

[0069] In other words, the execution device 71, when the vehicle 10 is not moving and the stationary video M2 is being displayed on the display 41, will, on the condition that the first specific operator 60A is operated, display the first driving video M3 on the display 41 instead of the stationary video M2.

[0070] <Video from the first run> As shown in Figure 8, the first driving video M3 includes the first driving image IM4, which simulates the view from the driver's seat while the vehicle 10 is in motion. The first driving image IM4 is an image that simulates the vehicle 10 in motion. The first driving image IM4, like the stationary image IM2, is an image from the driver's point of view.

[0071] The first driving image IM4 has a first background image IP5 that shows the scenery outside the vehicle 10. The first background image IP5 shows that the vehicle is driving on a road surrounded by trees. Then, in the images that are continuous in the time series of the first driving video M3, the image showing the scenery outside the vehicle 10 changes as the vehicle 10 is driving.

[0072] As shown in Figure 9, the first driving video M3 includes the second guide image IM5 after the first driving image IM4 in the time series. The second guide image IM5, like the stationary image IM2, is an image from the driver's point of view. The second guide image IM5 has a text image IP6 that displays a message asking whether or not to activate the driver assistance function. The text image IP6 indicates that when activating the ADAS function, the switch 65 should be operated. Specifically, the text image IP6 displays the message, "To activate the driver assistance function, please operate the switch 65."

[0073] As shown in Figure 4, after the execution device 71 displays the first driving video M3 in step S24, it proceeds to step S25. In step S25, the execution device 71 determines whether or not an operation requesting driving assistance has been performed. The operation requesting driving assistance is the operation of the second specific operator 60B. The second specific operator 60B is a predetermined operator 60 for switching to the next video after the first driving video M3. The second specific operator 60B is a switch 65. Therefore, the execution device 71 determines whether or not an operation requesting driving assistance using the switch 65 has been performed.

[0074] If no operation is performed to request the driver assistance function using switch 65 (S25: NO), the execution device 71 repeats the process in step S25. On the other hand, if an operation is performed to request the driver assistance function using switch 65 (S25: YES), the execution device 71 proceeds to step S26. The first driving video M3 continues to play until a positive determination is made in step S25.

[0075] <Video showing driver assistance in operation> In step S26, the execution device 71 plays the driving assistance video M4. Specifically, the execution device 71 displays the image shown by the image data contained in the fourth file D4 for playing the driving assistance video M4 on the display 41, and outputs the sound shown by the sound data contained in the fourth file D4 to the speaker 42.

[0076] In other words, the execution device 71 displays the driving assistance video M4 on the display 41 in place of the first driving video M3, provided that the second specific operator 60B is operated while the vehicle 10 is not moving and the first driving video M3 is being displayed on the display 41. The condition in this case is that an operation requesting driving assistance using the second specific operator 60B has been performed.

[0077] As shown in Figure 10, the driving assistance video M4 includes a driving assistance image IM6 that simulates the state when the vehicle 10 is moving and the driving assistance function is being executed. The driving assistance image IM6 is an image that shows the state when the vehicle 10 is executing the driving assistance function. The driving assistance image IM6 is an image from the driver's point of view, similar to the stationary image IM2.

[0078] The driving assistance image IM6 has a second background image IP7 that shows the scenery outside the vehicle 10. The second background image IP7 is a different scenery from the first background image IP5. The driving assistance image IM6 also has a partial image IP8 that shows the presence of a preceding vehicle in front of the vehicle 10. In this embodiment, the partial image IP8 shows the preceding vehicle with a virtual icon.

[0079] The driver assistance image IM6 has a partial image IP9 that indicates that driver assistance is being performed. The partial image IP9 that indicates that driver assistance is being performed shows, for example, the function of the driver assistance being performed, the set vehicle speed, the detection of the preceding vehicle, and the set following distance. In the example shown in Figure 10, the partial image IP9 indicates that ACC is being performed.

[0080] As shown in Figure 11, the driving assistance video M4 includes a third guide image IM7 that is chronologically later than the driving assistance image IM6. The third guide image IM7, like the stationary image IM2, is an image from the driver's point of view. The third guide image IM7 has a partial image IP10 that guides the user to perform an operation to charge the battery 23. The partial image IP10 shows the operation of the charging operation button 68 located in the driver's seat of the vehicle 10.

[0081] As shown in Figure 4, in step S26, the execution device 71 displays the driving support video M4 and then proceeds to step S27. In step S27, the execution device 71 determines whether or not an operation to perform charging has been performed. The operation to perform charging is to operate the third specific operator 60C. The third specific operator 60C is a predetermined operator 60 for switching to the next video of the driving support video M4. The third specific operator 60C is the charging operation button 68. Therefore, the execution device 71 determines whether or not an operation to perform charging using the charging operation button 68 has been performed.

[0082] If the charging operation button 68 is not operated (S27: NO), the execution device 71 repeats the process in step S27. If the charging operation button 68 is operated (S27: YES), the execution device 71 proceeds to step S28. The driving assistance video M4 continues to play until a positive determination is made in step S27.

[0083] In step S28, the execution device 71 plays the charging video M5. Specifically, the execution device 71 displays the image shown by the image data contained in the fifth file D5 for playing the charging video M5 on the display 41, and outputs the sound shown by the sound data contained in the fifth file D5 to the speaker 42.

[0084] In other words, the execution device 71 displays the charging video M5 on the display 41 in place of the driving assistance video M4, provided that the third specific operator 60C is operated while the vehicle 10 is not moving and the driving assistance video M4 is displayed on the display 41. The condition in this case is that an operation to perform charging using the third specific operator 60C has been performed.

[0085] <Video of charging> As shown in Figure 12, the charging video M5 includes a charging image IM8 that simulates the charging of the vehicle 10's battery 23. The charging image IM8 is an image that simulates the vehicle 10's battery 23 being charged. The charging image IM8 shows the state in which the charging connector 90 is connected to the vehicle 10's charging port 21. The charging image IM8 also shows that the vehicle 10's battery 23 is being charged. The charging video M5 shows the power stored in the battery 23 gradually increasing.

[0086] As shown in Figure 13, the charging video M5 includes a fourth guide image IM9, which is chronologically later than the charging image IM8. The fourth guide image IM9, like the stationary image IM2, is an image from the driver's point of view. The fourth guide image IM9 is an image indicating the operation of a fourth specific operator 60D, which is a predetermined operator 60 for switching to the next video in the charging video M5.

[0087] The fourth specific operator 60D is an operator 60 for switching the display to the next video when the charging video M5 is being displayed. In this embodiment, the fourth specific operator 60D is the second touch display 67. The fourth guide image IM9 includes a partial image IP11 that guides the user to operate the second touch display 67.

[0088] As shown in Figure 4, after displaying the charging video M5 in step S28, the execution device 71 proceeds to step S29. In step S29, the execution device 71 determines whether or not the fourth specific operator 60D has been operated. If the fourth specific operator 60D, i.e., the second touch display 67, has not been operated (S29: NO), the execution device 71 repeats the process in step S29. On the other hand, if the fourth specific operator 60D has been operated (S29: YES), the execution device 71 proceeds to step S30. The charging video M5 continues to be displayed until the process in step S29 is determined to be positive.

[0089] In step S30, the execution device 71 displays the second running video M6. More specifically, the execution device 71 displays the image shown by the image data contained in the sixth file D6 for playing the second running video M6 on the display 41, and outputs the sound shown by the sound data contained in the sixth file D6 to the speaker 42.

[0090] In other words, the execution device 71, when the vehicle 10 is not moving and the charging video M5 is being displayed on the display 41, will, on the condition that the fourth specific operator 60D is operated, display the second driving video M6 on the display 41 instead of the charging video M5.

[0091] <Video from the second run> As shown in Figure 14, the second driving video M6 includes the second driving image IM10, which simulates the view from the driver's seat while the vehicle 10 is in motion. The second driving image IM10 is an image that simulates the vehicle 10 in motion. Although the second driving image IM10 is an image from the driver's point of view, the range it captures differs from the range of the first driving image IM4. Specifically, the range shown in the second driving image IM10 is shifted towards the driver's side front side window compared to the range shown in the first driving image IM4. Therefore, the partial image IP13 showing the driver's side front side window in the second driving image IM10 shows a wider range than the partial image IP3 showing the driver's side front side window in the first driving image IM4. On the other hand, the partial image IP12 showing the windshield in the second driving image IM10 shows a narrower range than the partial image IP2 showing the windshield in the first driving image IM4. The second driving video M6 has a third background image IP14 showing the scenery outside the vehicle 10. The third background image IP14 is a different scenery from the first background image IP5. Specifically, the third background image IP14 shows that the vehicle is driving along the coast.

[0092] Furthermore, the second driving video M6 includes a guide voice in its audio data. The guide voice displays a message asking whether or not to end the state of simulating the vehicle 10's movement. The guide voice is a voice that tells the user to operate the fifth specific operator 60E, which is the operator 60 for switching the display to the next video, while the second driving video M6 is being displayed. In this embodiment, the fifth specific operator 60E is the brake pedal 62. Specifically, the guide voice is a voice that says, "To stop the vehicle 10 from moving, please operate the brake pedal 62."

[0093] As shown in Figure 4, in step S30, the execution device 71 displays the second driving video M6 and then proceeds to step S31. In step S31, the execution device 71 determines whether or not the fifth specific operator 60E has been operated. Specifically, the execution device 71 determines whether or not the brake pedal 62 has been operated.

[0094] If the fifth specific operator 60E is not operated (S31: NO), the execution device 71 repeats the process in step S31. On the other hand, if the fifth specific operator 60E is operated (S31: YES), the execution device 71 proceeds to step S32. The second running video M6 continues to play until a positive determination is made in step S31.

[0095] In step S32, the execution device 71 displays the exhibition mode termination video M7. The exhibition mode termination video M7 is a video indicating that the display in exhibition mode on the vehicle 10 has ended.

[0096] In other words, the execution device 71, when the vehicle 10 is not moving and the second driving video M6 is displayed on the display 41, will, on the condition that the fifth specific operator 60E is operated, display the exhibition mode termination video M7 on the display 41 instead of the second driving video M6.

[0097] Subsequently, once the playback of the exhibition mode termination video M7 has finished, the execution device 71 terminates this series of processes. In this embodiment, once the playback of the exhibition mode termination video M7 has finished, the execution device 71 displays a state in which it can again accept an operation to start displaying in exhibition mode.

[0098] <Differences between multiple playback content types> The second playback content CT2 differs from the first playback content CT1 in that the first background image IP5 in the first driving image IM4 included in the first driving video M3. In the second playback content CT2, the first background image IP5 indicates that the vehicle is driving on a road leading to an amusement park. Furthermore, in the first driving video M3, which consists of a series of images in chronological order, the images showing the scenery outside the vehicle 10 change as the vehicle 10 moves, gradually approaching the amusement park.

[0099] The third playback content CT3 differs from the first playback content CT1 in that the first background image IP5 in the first driving image IM4 included in the first driving video M3. In the third playback content CT3, the first background image IP5 indicates that the vehicle is driving on a highway. Furthermore, the first driving video M3 and the driving assistance video M4 show a faster simulated driving speed of the vehicle 10 in the chronologically consecutive images compared to the first playback content CT1.

[0100] The fourth playback content CT4 differs from the first playback content CT1 in that the first background image IP5 in the first driving image IM4 included in the first driving video M3. In the fourth playback content CT4, the first background image IP5 indicates that the vehicle is driving on a city road. Furthermore, the first driving video M3 and the driving assistance video M4 show a slower simulated driving speed of the vehicle 10 in the chronologically consecutive images compared to the first playback content CT1. In addition, in the fourth playback content CT4, the partial image IP9 indicates that PCS is being executed.

[0101] <Operation of the First Embodiment> According to the first embodiment, a user sitting in the driver's seat of the vehicle 10 can experience multimedia output using the display 41 and speaker 42 by performing an operation to start the display in exhibition mode.

[0102] When a user initiates display in exhibition mode, playback of a specific content CS selected based on the user information US begins. This allows the user to experience a specific content CS selected from multiple playback content CTs according to their user information US.

[0103] <Effects of the Embodiment> (1) The control device 70 selects a specific content CS from among multiple playback content CTs based on the user information US of the user riding in the vehicle 10. Therefore, the control device 70 can display a video suitable for the user on the display 41 by playing the playback content CT selected based on the user information US.

[0104] (2) When the specific content CS is played, the multiple videos displayed on the display 41 include a video of the vehicle in motion, which includes images simulating the vehicle 10 in motion. Therefore, when the specific content CS is played, a user riding in the vehicle 10 can see a video on the display 41 showing the vehicle 10 in motion, even when the vehicle 10 is not in motion.

[0105] (3) The image simulating the state of vehicle 10 while it is in motion is an image of the area in front of the driver's seat of vehicle 10, including the steering wheel image V63 of vehicle 10 and a partial image IP2 showing a part of the windshield of vehicle 10. Therefore, a user sitting in the driver's seat of vehicle 10 can see a video of the state of vehicle 10 while it is in motion, specifically the state of driving vehicle 10. This allows a user sitting in the driver's seat of vehicle 10 to have a simulated experience of driving vehicle 10.

[0106] (4) The image simulating the state of the vehicle 10 while it is in motion is an image of the area that includes a partial image IP3 showing a part of the front side window on the driver's side of the vehicle 10, within the range of view from the driver's seat of the vehicle 10. Therefore, a user sitting in the driver's seat of the vehicle 10 can have a simulated experience of what it looks like through the front side window when driving the vehicle 10.

[0107] (5) When specific content CS is played, multiple videos displayed on the display 41 include a charging video M5. This allows a user riding in the vehicle 10 to see the state of the battery 23 while it is being charged. In particular, for a user considering purchasing the electric vehicle 10, being able to experience the operation of charging the battery 23 before purchasing will influence their purchasing decision.

[0108] (6) When the specific content CS is played, the multiple videos displayed on the display 41 include the driving assistance video M4. This allows the user riding in the vehicle 10 to see the state of the vehicle while driving assistance is being performed. In particular, a user who has never used the driving assistance function before can see the state of the vehicle while driving assistance is being performed, even if they are not currently using the function, which can give them a sense of security when using the driving assistance function.

[0109] (7) The storage device 72 stores a first video file for playing the first video and a second video file for playing the second video. Specifically, the multiple video files DA include the first video file and the second video file. The execution device 71 displays the second video on the display 41 in place of the first video, provided that the operator 60 is operated while the vehicle 10 is not moving and the first video is being displayed on the display 41.

[0110] With the above configuration, a user sitting in the driver's seat of vehicle 10 can experience the video displayed on the display 41 changing when they operate the control device 60. Therefore, the control device 70 can provide the user of vehicle 10 with the experience of the video simulating the vehicle 10's movement displayed on the display 41 changing in accordance with the operation of vehicle 10.

[0111] (8) The execution device 71 displays the second video instead of the first video on the condition that a specific operator 60 among the multiple operators 60 is operated. In other words, the execution device 71 does not switch the video displayed on the display 41 even if an operator 60 other than the specific operator 60 is operated. Thus, the control device 70 can link the type of operator 60 with the display on the display 41.

[0112] <Example of changes> The above embodiment can be implemented with the following modifications. The above embodiment and the following modifications can be combined with each other to the extent that they do not contradict each other technically.

[0113] Vehicle 10 is not limited to electric vehicles. For example, vehicle 10 may be powered by an engine. In this case, vehicle 10 does not need to have a battery 23. Also, vehicle 10 does not need to have a charging port 21 and a charging device 22.

[0114] Vehicle 10 is equipped with a display 41 and a speaker 42 for outputting multimedia content, but the multimedia content may also be content that outputs scent and vibration. In this case, vehicle 10 may further be equipped with a device that outputs scent and a device that outputs vibration. Also, vehicle 10 only needs to be able to output image data and does not need to be equipped with a speaker 42.

[0115] The display 41 is not limited to a center display. For example, the display 41 may be a meter display, or the first touch display 66 and the second touch display 67 may be the display 41. Furthermore, the display 41 does not have to be a single screen. For example, the center display and the meter display may be used as the display 41.

[0116] The vehicle 10 only needs to have at least one control element 60. Multiple control elements 60 do not need to include the accelerator pedal 61, brake pedal 62, wheel body 64, multiple switches 65, first touch display 66, second touch display 67, and part of the charging operation button 68.

[0117] The multiple controls 60 are not limited to the examples of the above embodiment. For example, the multiple controls 60 may include switches for opening and closing the front side windows. Alternatively, if the display 41 is a touch display, the multiple controls 60 may be switches displayed on the display 41. Alternatively, for example, the multiple controls 60 may be a shift lever. Preferably, the controls 60 are for operating functions necessary for driving the vehicle 10.

[0118] The control device 70 may be configured as a circuit including one or more processors that execute various processes according to a computer program (software). Alternatively, the control device 70 may be configured as a circuit including one or more dedicated hardware circuits, such as application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), or a combination thereof, that execute at least some of the various processes. The processor includes a CPU and memory such as RAM and ROM. The memory stores program code or instructions configured to cause the CPU to execute processes. Memory, or computer-readable media, includes any available media accessible by a general-purpose or dedicated computer.

[0119] The control device 70 does not need to control charging in the vehicle 10. For example, if the vehicle 10 does not use the battery 23 as a power source, it does not need to control charging. Alternatively, for example, a device other than the control device 70 may control the charging of the battery 23 of the vehicle 10.

[0120] The control device 70 does not have to control the driving of the vehicle 10. For example, a device other than the control device 70 may control the driving of the vehicle 10. The control device 70 does not have to control the driver assistance of the vehicle 10. For example, a device other than the control device 70 may control the driver assistance of the vehicle 10. Specifically, the control device 70 may be a multimedia ECU that controls the output of multimedia, and the vehicle 10 may have a separate driver assistance ECU that controls the driver assistance of the vehicle 10.

[0121] • Driving assistance is not limited to the examples of the above embodiments. Driving assistance is not limited to advanced driver assistance. Driving assistance is any function that assists the brake device 31, the drive motor 24 which is the drive source, and the steering device 32 based on the detection signal of the sensor 50.

[0122] The control device 70 does not need to output sound from the speaker 42 as long as it can at least display the video on the display 41. In addition, the control device 70 may control the output of scent from the scent output device and the output of vibration from the vibration output device in accordance with the video.

[0123] The multiple video files DA stored in the storage device 72 are not limited to the examples of the above embodiment. For example, the multiple video files DA may include a file for playing a video of driving during nighttime hours and a file for playing a video of driving during daytime hours. Alternatively, for example, the multiple video files DA may include a file for playing a video that includes images showing the appearance of the vehicle 10 while it is in motion.

[0124] When the video file DA is played, the images included in the video that simulate the state of the vehicle 10 while it is in motion, i.e., images of the vehicle in motion, may be images that do not include the partial image IP3 which shows a part of the front side window on the driver's side.

[0125] Furthermore, the images taken while the vehicle is in motion do not necessarily have to be from the driver's perspective. For example, the images taken while the vehicle is in motion may be from the perspective of a passenger in the front seat, or they may be images showing the exterior of the vehicle 10 while it is in motion.

[0126] The images exemplified in the above embodiments included in each video may be modified as appropriate. For example, the text image IP6 in the second guide image IM5, which shows a message asking whether or not to execute the driving assistance function, may be shown as an illustration, or the image may be omitted and the message may be conveyed by sound data. Alternatively, the text image IP6 may be shown along with sound data.

[0127] For example, the partial image IP8, which is included in the driving assistance image IM6 and shows that there is a preceding vehicle in front of vehicle 10, is illustrated with a hypothetical illustration, but it may also be an illustration of the preceding vehicle. In addition, the control device 70 may display the partial image IP9, which is included in the driving assistance image IM6 and shows that driving assistance is being performed, and may also output the display on the meter display when actual driving assistance is performed.

[0128] The storage device 72 may omit some of the five combinations of the first video and the second video. The storage device 72 only needs to store at least one combination of the first video and the second video. The execution device 71 only needs to switch between videos using at least one combination of the first video and the second video. Furthermore, the combinations are not limited to the examples of the above embodiment. For example, the execution device 71 may switch from the first driving video M3 to the charging video M5.

[0129] The specific operator 60 for switching each video to the next video is not limited to the example of the above embodiment. For example, the specific operator 60 for switching from the stationary video M2 to the first driving video M3 may be the accelerator pedal 61.

[0130] The control device 70 may switch the display on the display 41 from the first video to the second video when any of the multiple operators 60 is operated. In other words, the execution device 71 does not need to require that a specific operator 60 from the multiple operators 60 be operated when displaying the second video.

[0131] The control device 70 does not necessarily have to require that an operation requesting charging of the battery 23 be performed when displaying the charging video M5. For example, it may only need to be required that a specific operator 60 has been operated.

[0132] The control device 70 does not necessarily have to require that an operation requesting driving assistance be performed before displaying the driving assistance video M4. For example, it may only need to be required that a specific operator 60 has been operated.

[0133] The control device 70 does not necessarily have to require the operator 60 to be operated as a condition for switching videos. For example, the control device 70 may switch to the next video when the playback time of the currently displayed video has elapsed. The playback content CT can be any content in which multiple videos are switched and displayed on the display 41.

[0134] The differences between the multiple playback content CTs are not limited to the examples of the above embodiment. For example, the second playback content CT2 may not include the fifth file D5 for playing the charging video M5. Also, for example, the third playback content CT3 may include files for playing videos of multiple driving assistance functions. Thus, the multiple playback content CTs may differ in content playback time, the number of videos they contain, or the types of videos they contain. Including videos that introduce highly demanded functions for each difference in user information US is particularly preferable for users before purchasing the vehicle 10.

[0135] The method of selecting specific content CS based on user information US is not limited to the example of the above embodiment. If playback content CT of high interest has been associated with user information US in advance through testing or simulation, the execution device 71 can simply select the playback content CT corresponding to user information US as the specific content CS.

[0136] The execution device 71 may, after displaying the selected specific content CS on the display 41 for the user to select, play the specific content CS only if the user has made a selection. In this case, the control device 70 may play the specific content CS if the user is interested in the selected content CS.

[0137] The storage device 72 may store multiple video files DA obtained from an external server or external memory of the vehicle 10. For example, the storage device 72 may temporarily store files obtained from an external server or external memory when the execution device 71 starts executing the output program PR.

[0138] <Note> The technical concepts that can be understood from the above embodiments and modified examples are described below. [Note 1] A control device for controlling output to a display mounted on a vehicle, comprising a storage unit and an execution unit, wherein the storage unit stores a plurality of playback contents, the playback contents are content in which a plurality of videos are switched and displayed on the display, and the execution unit acquires user information of a user riding in the vehicle, selects a specific content from the plurality of playback contents based on the acquired user information, and outputs the video to the display by playing the selected specific content.

[0139] [Note 2] The control device according to Note 1, wherein the plurality of videos displayed on the display when the specific content is played include a video of the vehicle in motion, which includes images simulating the vehicle in motion.

[0140] [Note 3] The control device according to Note 2, wherein the image when simulating the vehicle in motion is an image of the area in front of the vehicle as seen from the driver's seat, including an image showing the vehicle's steering wheel and an image showing a part of the vehicle's windshield.

[0141] [Note 4] The control device according to Note 3, wherein the image simulating the state of the vehicle while it is in motion is an image of the range in front of the driver's seat, including an image showing a part of the front side window of the vehicle on the driver's side.

[0142] [Note 5] The control device according to any one of Notes 1 to 4, wherein the plurality of videos displayed on the display when the specific content is played include a charging video that includes images simulating the vehicle's battery being charged.

[0143] [Note 6] The control device according to any one of Notes 1 to 5, wherein the plurality of videos displayed on the display when the specific content is played include a video of driving assistance in progress, which includes images of the vehicle's driving assistance function being performed.

[0144] [Note 7] The control device according to any one of Notes 1 to 6, wherein the plurality of videos include a first video and a second video, and the execution unit displays the second video on the display in place of the first video when predetermined conditions are met while the first video is being displayed.

[0145] [Note 8] The control device according to Note 7, wherein the condition is that a specific operator among the multiple operators provided by the vehicle is operated. [Explanation of symbols]

[0146] 10... Vehicles 21…Charging port 22…Charging device 23…Battery 24…Drive motor 31…Brake system 32…Steering system 41…Display 42...Speaker 50...Sensor 60...Operator 61... Accelerator pedal 62...Brake pedal 63… Steering wheel 64...Wheel body 65... Switch 66…First touch display 67…Second touch display 68... Charging operation button 70...Control device 71…Execution device 72...Storage device CS...Specific Content CT... Content for playback DA...video file M1...Video showing the start of exhibition mode M2...Video while stopped M3... Video of the first run M4...Driving assistance video M5... Charging video M6...Video of the second run M7...Exhibition mode ending video US... User Information

Claims

1. A control device that controls the output to a display mounted on a vehicle, It comprises a memory unit and an execution unit. The aforementioned storage unit stores multiple playback content items. The aforementioned playback content is content in which multiple videos are switched and displayed on the display. The execution unit is, Obtain user information of the user riding in the aforementioned vehicle, Based on the acquired user information, a specific content is selected from among the multiple playback content items. The video is displayed on the display by playing the selected specific content. Control device.

2. The multiple videos displayed on the screen when the aforementioned specific content is played include a video of the vehicle in motion, which contains images simulating the vehicle in motion. The control device according to claim 1.

3. The image used to simulate the vehicle in motion is an image of the area in front of the vehicle as seen from the driver's seat, including an image showing the vehicle's steering wheel and an image showing a portion of the vehicle's windshield. The control device according to claim 2.

4. The image simulating the state of the vehicle while it is in motion is an image of the area in front of the driver's seat, including an image showing a portion of the front side window of the vehicle on the driver's side. The control device according to claim 3.

5. The multiple videos displayed on the screen when the aforementioned specific content is played include a charging video that includes images simulating the vehicle's battery being charged. The control device according to claim 1.

6. The multiple videos displayed on the screen when the aforementioned specific content is played include a video of the vehicle in operation, which includes images of the vehicle's driver assistance function while it is running. The control device according to claim 1.

7. The aforementioned videos include the first video and the second video. The execution unit, when the first video is being displayed, will display the second video on the display in place of the first video when predetermined conditions are met. The control device according to claim 1.

8. The aforementioned condition is that a specific operator among the multiple operators provided by the vehicle is operated. The control device according to claim 7.

Images