Vehicle display control device, vehicle display control method, and program

Abstract

To obtain a vehicle display control device, a vehicle display control method, and a program that allow occupants to intuitively understand the reason why a driver assistance function has been activated. [Solution] The vehicle display control device is a vehicle display control device that displays predetermined information in a display area around the driver's seat when at least one of the driving support controls, acceleration, deceleration, and steering, is activated, and displays an image indicating the reason why the driving support control was activated, along with a mark corresponding to the type of driving support control that was activated.

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a display control unit that displays an image for notifying a deceleration target detected in a deceleration display area of a display in a vehicle interior when a deceleration target is detected.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, in the device described in Patent Document 1 above, since only traffic lights, vehicles, etc. are displayed on the display, the driver may not be able to understand the reason why the driving support function has activated just by glancing at the display.

[0005] An object of the present invention is to obtain a vehicle display control device, a vehicle display control method, and a program that enable a driver to intuitively understand the reason why a driving support function has activated.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] A vehicle display control device according to a first aspect is a vehicle display control device that displays predetermined information in a display area around a driver's seat when at least one of acceleration, deceleration, and steering driving support controls is activated, and displays an image indicating the reason why the activated driving support control has activated, together with a mark corresponding to the type of the activated driving support control.

[0007] In the vehicle display control device according to the first embodiment, predetermined information is displayed in the display area around the driver's seat when at least one driving assistance function, such as acceleration, deceleration, and steering, is activated. Specifically, an image indicating the reason why the driving assistance control was activated is displayed along with a mark corresponding to the type of driving assistance control that was activated. This allows the driver to understand the type of driving assistance control and the reason why it was activated by visually checking the information displayed in the display area.

[0008] In the second embodiment, the vehicle display control device displays a figure surrounding the image as the mark, and also displays marks of different shapes depending on the type of driving support function.

[0009] In the vehicle display control device according to the second embodiment, the occupant can understand the type of driving assistance control simply by looking at the shape of the graphic.

[0010] In the third embodiment, the vehicle display control device displays different marks depending on whether or not it is in automatic driving mode.

[0011] In the vehicle display control device according to the third embodiment, the occupant can determine whether or not it is in automatic driving mode simply by looking at a mark.

[0012] In the fourth embodiment, the vehicle display control device displays the mark in different positions depending on whether or not it is in automatic driving mode.

[0013] In the vehicle display control device according to the fourth embodiment, it is possible to determine whether or not it is in automatic driving mode simply by looking at the position of the mark.

[0014] In the fifth embodiment, the vehicle display control device displays the image when the distance between the vehicle and the preceding vehicle falls below a predetermined value.

[0015] In the vehicle display control device according to the fifth embodiment, the occupant can understand, simply by glancing at the image, that the reason the driving assistance control was activated is because the distance to the preceding vehicle fell below a predetermined value.

[0016] In the sixth embodiment, the vehicle display control device displays the image when driving on a curve.

[0017] In the vehicle display control device according to the sixth embodiment, the occupant can understand that the reason the driving assistance control was activated is because the vehicle was driving on a curve, simply by taking a quick look at the image.

[0018] In the seventh embodiment, the vehicle display control device displays the image when the distance to a traffic light that is lit with the stop light color falls below a predetermined value.

[0019] In the vehicle display control device according to the seventh embodiment, the occupant can understand, simply by glancing at the image, that the reason the driving assistance control was activated is that the distance to the traffic light, which is lit with the stop light color, falls below a predetermined value.

[0020] In the eighth embodiment, the vehicle display control device displays the image when the distance to the stop position falls below a predetermined value.

[0021] In the vehicle display control device according to the eighth embodiment, the occupant can understand the reason why the driving assistance control was activated, such as whether the distance to the stop position is below a predetermined value, simply by taking a quick look at the image.

[0022] A vehicle display control method according to the ninth aspect is a vehicle display control method that displays predetermined information in a display area around the driver's seat when at least one driving support control of acceleration, deceleration, and steering is activated, and displays an image indicating the reason why the driving support control was activated, along with a mark corresponding to the type of driving support control that was activated.

[0023] The program according to the tenth embodiment is a program that causes a computer to perform a process to display predetermined information in a display area around the driver's seat when at least one of the driving support controls, acceleration, deceleration, and steering, is activated, and displays an image indicating the reason why the driving support control was activated, along with a mark corresponding to the type of driving support control that was activated. [Effects of the Invention]

[0024] As described above, according to the vehicle display control device, the vehicle display control method, and the program according to the present invention, the driver can intuitively understand the reason why the driving support function has been activated.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0025] [Figure 1] It is a schematic view of the front part of the vehicle interior in a vehicle to which the vehicle display control device according to the embodiment is applied, as viewed from the rear side of the vehicle. [Figure 2] It is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the vehicle display control device according to the embodiment. [Figure 3] It is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the vehicle display control device according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] It is a diagram showing an example of display in the display area in the embodiment, and shows a state in which the deceleration support function is operating during manual driving. [Figure 5] It is a diagram showing an example of display in the display area in the embodiment, and shows a state in which the deceleration support function is operating during manual driving. [Figure 6] It is a diagram showing an example of display in the display area in the embodiment, and shows a state in which the deceleration support function is operating during manual driving. [Figure 7] It is a diagram showing an example of display in the display area in the embodiment, and shows a state in which the deceleration support function is operating during manual driving. [Figure 8] [Figure 8] It is a diagram showing an example of display in the display area in the embodiment, and shows a state in which the deceleration support function is operating during automatic driving. [Figure 9] It is a diagram showing an example of display in the display area in the embodiment, and shows a state in which the deceleration support function is operating during automatic driving. [Figure 10] It is a diagram showing an example of display in the display area in the embodiment, and shows a state in which the deceleration support function is operating during automatic driving. [Figure 11]This figure shows an example of the display area in the embodiment, illustrating the state in which the deceleration support function is activated during autonomous driving. [Figure 12] This flowchart shows an example of the display processing flow in the embodiment. [Figure 13] This figure shows an example of the display area in the first modified example, illustrating the state in which the deceleration support function is activated during autonomous driving. [Figure 14] This figure shows an example of the display area in the second modified example, illustrating the state where the deceleration support function is activated during autonomous driving. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0026] A vehicle display control system 10 equipped with a vehicle display control device 28 according to an embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. In Figure 1, the arrow UP indicates the upper side in the vehicle's vertical direction, and the arrow RH indicates the right side in the vehicle's width direction. In the following description, the vertical direction and the left-right direction refer to the vertical direction of the vehicle and the left-right direction in the vehicle's width direction, respectively.

[0027] As shown in Figure 1, an instrument panel 14 is provided at the front of the passenger compartment of the vehicle 12. The instrument panel 14 extends in the vehicle width direction, and a steering wheel 16 is provided on the right side of the instrument panel 14. In other words, in this embodiment, as an example, it is a right-hand drive vehicle with the steering wheel 16 on the right side, and the driver's seat is set on the right side of the vehicle. However, it is not limited to this and may also be applied to vehicles where the driver's seat is set on the left side of the vehicle.

[0028] A windshield glass 18 is provided at the front end of the instrument panel 14. The windshield glass 18 extends in the vehicle's vertical and vehicle width directions, separating the interior of the vehicle from the exterior.

[0029] The right-side end of the windshield glass 18 is fixed to the right-side front pillar 20 of the vehicle. The front pillar 20 extends in the vertical direction of the vehicle, and the windshield glass 18 is fixed to the inner end of the front pillar 20 in the vehicle width direction. The front end of the front side glass 22 is fixed to the outer end of the front pillar 20 in the vehicle width direction. The left-side end of the windshield glass 18 is fixed to the left-side front pillar of the vehicle (not shown).

[0030] Here, the instrument panel 14 is provided with a first display unit 24 having an image display area V1. The first display unit 24 is composed of a meter display located on the right side of the vehicle of the instrument panel 14, in front of the driver's seat. The display unit 24 is connected to various meter devices mounted on the vehicle 12 and is positioned so that it is within the driver's field of vision when the driver is looking straight ahead.

[0031] The instrument panel 14 is provided with a second display unit 25 having an image display area V2. The second display unit 25 is composed of a center display located in the center of the instrument panel 14 in the vehicle width direction.

[0032] The windshield glass 18 is provided with a third display section 26 having an image display area V3. The third display section 26 is set on the vehicle's upper side of the first display section 24 and is composed of a projection surface projected by a head-up display device 46 (see Figure 2) as a display device. Specifically, a head-up display device 46 capable of projecting images is provided on the vehicle's front side of the instrument panel 14, and the image is projected from this head-up display device 46 onto the third display section 26 of the windshield glass 18. In other words, the third display section 26 is a part of the windshield glass 18 that serves as the projection surface of the head-up display device 46.

[0033] Here, the vehicle 12 is equipped with a vehicle display control device 28 which constitutes the vehicle display control system 10. The vehicle display control device 28 in this embodiment is, for example, an ECU (Electronic Control Unit) that performs various controls. The driver's device 28 is configured to display predetermined information in at least one of the display areas V1, V2, and V3 around the driver's seat when at least one of the driving support controls (driving support functions) for acceleration / deceleration and steering is activated.

[0034] (Hardware configuration of the vehicle display control device 28) As shown in Figure 2, the vehicle display control device 28 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit: processor) 30, ROM (Read Only Memory) 32, RAM (Random Access Memory) 34, storage 36, communication interface (communication I / F) 38, and input / output interface. It is comprised of a 40-face (input / output interface). Each component is connected to the others via an internal bus 42 so that they can communicate with each other.

[0035] The CPU 30 is a central processing unit that executes various programs and controls various components. Specifically, the CPU 30 reads programs from the ROM 32 or storage 36 and executes them using the RAM 34 as a working area. The CPU 30 also controls the above-mentioned components and performs various calculations according to the programs recorded in the ROM 32 or storage 36.

[0036] ROM32 stores various programs and data. RAM34 temporarily stores programs or data as a working area. Storage36 is a non-temporary recording medium consisting of an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or SSD (Solid State Drive) that stores various programs, including the operating system, and various data. In this embodiment, ROM32 or storage36 stores display programs and the like for performing display processing.

[0037] The communication interface 38 is a interface for the vehicle display control device 28 to communicate with a server and other devices, such as CAN (Controller Area Network) and Ethernet. Standards such as LTE (Long Term Evolution), FDDI (Fiber Distributed Data Interface), and Wi-Fi (registered trademark) are used.

[0038] The input / output interface 40 is connected to a gaze detection sensor 44, a first display unit 24, a second display unit 25, and a head-up display device 46. The image is projected onto the third display unit 26 by the spray device 46.

[0039] The gaze detection sensor 44 is, for example, located on the instrument panel 14 and positioned facing the face of the occupant (driver) seated in the driver's seat. The gaze detection sensor 44 recognizes the occupant's eyes and detects the direction of the occupant's gaze using principles such as the corneal reflection method and the scleral reflection method.

[0040] (Functional configuration of the vehicle display control device 28) The vehicle display control device 28 implements various functions using the above-mentioned hardware resources. The functional configuration implemented by the vehicle display control device 28 will be explained with reference to Figure 3.

[0041] As shown in Figure 3, the vehicle display control device 28 is configured as follows: a driving mode acquisition unit 52, a driving support function information acquisition unit 54, a support reason display unit 56, and a mark display unit 58. Each of these functional configurations is realized by the CPU 30 reading and executing a program stored in the ROM 32 or storage 36.

[0042] The driving mode acquisition unit 52 acquires the driving mode of the vehicle 12. In this embodiment, the vehicle 12 is equipped with, as an example, a manual driving mode in which the driver performs all operations, and an automatic driving mode in which at least some operations are performed automatically. The automatic driving mode also includes active cruise control, a driving assistance function that provides assistance with acceleration, deceleration, and steering only when the occupant is holding the steering wheel. Furthermore, the automatic driving mode also includes a hands-off driving mode in which the driving assistance function operates even when the occupant has taken their hands off the steering wheel, as long as they are paying attention to the area in front of the vehicle.

[0043] For example, in the hands-off state, the driving assistance function may be configured to continue if it is detected that the occupant's gaze direction is forward based on the signal from the gaze detection sensor 44.

[0044] The driving support function information acquisition unit 54 acquires information about the driving support functions that are in operation. Specifically, it may acquire signals from actuators such as a steering actuator, accelerator actuator, and brake actuator (not shown). The steering actuator steers the vehicle 12. The accelerator actuator accelerates the vehicle 12. The brake actuator decelerates the vehicle 12.

[0045] For example, if the vehicle 12 is being steered by a steering actuator, the driving support function information acquisition unit 54 can determine that the driving support function that steers the vehicle 12 is in operation by acquiring information related to the driving support function.

[0046] Furthermore, for example, if the vehicle 12 is being accelerated by the accelerator actuator, the driving support function information acquisition unit 54 can determine that a driving support function that accelerates the vehicle 12 is in operation by acquiring information related to the driving support function. In addition, if the vehicle 12 is being decelerated by the brake actuator, the driving support function information acquisition unit 54 can determine that a driving support function that decelerates the vehicle 12 is in operation by acquiring information related to the driving support function.

[0047] The support reason display unit 56 displays an image in the display area indicating the reason why the driving support function was activated. In this embodiment, as an example, the support reason display unit 56 is configured to display a predetermined image in the display area V3.

[0048] Furthermore, the support reason display unit 56 of this embodiment displays different images in the following cases: when the distance to the preceding vehicle falls below a predetermined value; when driving on a curve, when the distance to a traffic light illuminated with the stop light color falls below a predetermined value; and when the distance to a stop sign falls below a predetermined value. Examples of image displays will be described later.

[0049] The mark display unit 58 displays a mark corresponding to the type of driving assistance function near the image. In this embodiment, the mark display unit 58 is configured to display a figure surrounding the image as a mark, and to display marks of different shapes depending on the type of driving assistance function.

[0050] In this embodiment, as an example, the mark display unit 58 is configured to display the mark in different positions in manual driving mode, where the driver performs all operations, and in automatic driving mode, where at least some operations are performed automatically. Furthermore, the mark display unit 58 is configured to display different marks in active cruise control mode, where the occupant needs to hold the steering wheel, and in hands-off mode, where the occupant does not need to hold the steering wheel.

[0051] (Example display) Figure 4 shows an example of the display in the display area V3 in the embodiment, illustrating the state in which the deceleration support function is activated during manual operation.

[0052] As shown in Figure 4, the top of the display area V3 shows a first image 62 indicating the current speed of the vehicle 12. The speed of the vehicle 12 is calculated based on a signal detected by a vehicle speed sensor (not shown).

[0053] To the left of the first image 62, the second image 64 is displayed, showing the current shift position of the vehicle 12. In Figure 4, the second image 64 is an image resembling the "D" which indicates the drive range.

[0054] At the bottom of the display area V3, a third image 66, which is modeled after the vehicle, is displayed. In addition, an image modeled after the lane in which the vehicle 12 is traveling is displayed around the third image 66, and is colored in a predetermined color according to the driving mode. For example, in this embodiment, the road is displayed in gray along the lane.

[0055] Between the first image 62 and the third image 66, a fourth image 68 is displayed, showing the reason why the driving assistance function was activated. Specifically, the fourth image 68 displays an image that simulates a preceding vehicle traveling in front of vehicle 12.

[0056] Furthermore, a mark 70 corresponding to the type of driving assistance function is displayed near the fourth image 68. In this embodiment, the mark 70 is displayed as a shape surrounding the fourth image 68 and is a roughly rectangular shape. The mark 70 may also be displayed in gray, similar to the road.

[0057] In manual driving mode, the fourth image 68 is displayed in the display area V3 at approximately the same time that the driver assistance function that decelerates the vehicle 12 is activated, allowing the occupant to intuitively understand that deceleration has occurred because the distance to the preceding vehicle has fallen below a predetermined value.

[0058] Figure 5 shows the deceleration support function in operation during manual driving, similar to Figure 4.

[0059] As shown in Figure 5, the top of the display area V3 shows the first stroke indicating the current speed of the vehicle 12. Image 62 is displayed, and to the left of the first image 62, a second image 64 is displayed showing the current shift position of the vehicle 12.

[0060] Furthermore, below the first image 62, a fourth image 68 is displayed, showing the reason why the driving assistance function was activated. Specifically, the fourth image 68 is an image resembling an arrow indicating a curve. In addition, a roughly rectangular mark 70 is displayed surrounding the fourth image 68.

[0061] In manual driving mode, the fourth image 68 is displayed in the display area V3 at approximately the same time that the driver assistance function that slows down the vehicle 12 is activated, allowing the occupant to intuitively understand that deceleration occurred because the vehicle entered the curve at a relatively high speed.

[0062] Figure 6 shows the state in which the deceleration support function is activated during manual operation, similar to Figure 4, and the first image 62, the second image 64, and the third image 66 are the same as in Figure 4.

[0063] As shown in Figure 6, below the first image 62, a fourth image 68 is displayed, indicating the reason why the driving assistance function was activated. Specifically, the fourth image 68 is an image that mimics a traffic light illuminated with the stop light color. Furthermore, a roughly rectangular mark 70 is displayed surrounding the fourth image 68.

[0064] In manual driving mode, the fourth image 68 is displayed in the display area V3 at approximately the same time that the driving assistance function that decelerates the vehicle 12 is activated, allowing the occupant to intuitively understand that deceleration has occurred because the distance to the traffic light, which is illuminated with a stop light color, has fallen below a predetermined value.

[0065] Figure 7 shows the state in which the deceleration support function is activated during manual operation, similar to Figure 4, and the first image 62, the second image 64, and the third image 66 are the same as in Figure 4.

[0066] As shown in Figure 7, below the first image 62, a fourth image 68 is displayed, indicating the reason why the driving assistance function was activated. Specifically, the fourth image 68 is an image resembling a stop sign. Furthermore, a roughly rectangular mark 70 is displayed surrounding the fourth image 68.

[0067] In manual driving mode, the fourth image 68 is displayed in the display area V3 at approximately the same time that the driving assistance function that slows down the vehicle 12 is activated, allowing the occupant to intuitively understand that deceleration has occurred because the distance to the stopping point has fallen below a predetermined value.

[0068] Figure 8 shows an example of the display in the display area V3 in the embodiment, illustrating the state in which the deceleration support function is activated during autonomous driving.

[0069] As shown in Figure 8, the top of the display area V3 shows a first image 62 indicating the current speed of the vehicle 12, and to the left of the first image 62, a second image 64 indicating the current shift position of the vehicle 12 is displayed.

[0070] To the right of the first image 62, a fifth image 63 is displayed, showing the set speed of the vehicle 12. In this embodiment, the fifth image 63 shows an image indicating that the vehicle speed is set to 80 km / h. Therefore, the vehicle 12 is configured to maintain a speed of 80 km / h without the occupant having to operate the accelerator pedal when there is a sufficiently large gap between it and the vehicle ahead. The set speed can be changed as appropriate by the occupant.

[0071] Below the first image 62, the sixth image 72, which shows the preceding vehicle, is displayed. In the sixth image 72, a straight line is drawn below a diagram that simulates the preceding vehicle, indicating that the vehicle 12's system has recognized the preceding vehicle.

[0072] Between the sixth image 72 and the third image 66, which shows the vehicle itself, a seventh image 74, which resembles multiple lines, is displayed. The number of lines displayed in the seventh image 74 increases or decreases according to the distance to the preceding vehicle. For example, if the distance to the preceding vehicle decreases, the number of lines displayed in the seventh image 74 decreases.

[0073] In this embodiment, the road is displayed in green along the lanes, but this is not limited to this, and it may be displayed in a color other than green. It is preferable to change the color of the road between manual driving mode and automatic driving mode, but it may also be displayed in the same color.

[0074] To the left of the third image 66, the eighth image 76 is displayed, which simulates a vehicle traveling in the adjacent lane. The vehicle 12 is equipped with multiple sensors capable of detecting the surrounding environment, and surrounding vehicles detected by these sensors are displayed in the display area V3.

[0075] Here, to the left of the third image 66, the ninth image 78 is displayed, which shows the reason why the driving assistance function was activated. Specifically, the ninth image 78 is an image that resembles an arrow indicating a curve. Furthermore, a roughly rectangular mark 80 is displayed surrounding the ninth image 78.

[0076] In autonomous driving mode, the ninth image 78 is displayed in the display area V3 at approximately the same time that the driver assistance function that slows down vehicle 12 is activated, allowing the occupant to intuitively understand that deceleration occurred because the vehicle entered the curve at a relatively high speed. In Figure 8, the eighth image 86 and the ninth image 78 overlap because other vehicles are driving around vehicle 12, but if there are no other vehicles driving, only the ninth image 78 will be displayed in the same position. Thus, in this embodiment, images indicating the reason why the driver assistance function was activated are displayed in different positions in manual driving mode and autonomous driving mode.

[0077] Figure 9 shows an example of the display area V3 in the embodiment, illustrating the state in which the deceleration support function is activated during autonomous driving. Note that in Figure 9, the first image 62, the second image 64, the third image 66, the fifth image 63, the sixth image 72, the seventh image 74, and the eighth image 76 are the same as in Figure 8.

[0078] As shown in Figure 9, to the left of the third image 66, the ninth image 78 is displayed, which shows the reason why the driving assistance function was activated. Specifically, the ninth image 78 is an image that resembles a stop sign. Furthermore, a roughly rectangular mark 80 is displayed surrounding the ninth image 78.

[0079] In autonomous driving mode, the ninth image 78 is displayed in the display area V3 at approximately the same time that the driver assistance function that slows down the vehicle 12 is activated, allowing the occupant to intuitively understand that deceleration has occurred because the distance to the stopping point has fallen below a predetermined value.

[0080] Figure 10 shows an example of the display area V3 in the embodiment, illustrating the state in which the deceleration support function is activated during autonomous driving. Note that in Figure 10, the first image 62, the second image 64, the third image 66, the fifth image 63, the sixth image 72, the seventh image 74, and the eighth image 76 are the same as in Figure 8.

[0081] As shown in Figure 10, the reason why the driving assistance function was activated is shown to the left of the third image 66. The ninth image, 78, is displayed. Specifically, the ninth image, 78, is an image that mimics a sign indicating a roundabout. Furthermore, a roughly rectangular mark, 80, is displayed surrounding the ninth image, 78.

[0082] In autonomous driving mode, the ninth image 78 is displayed in the display area V3 at approximately the same time that the driver assistance function that slows down the vehicle 12 is activated, allowing the occupants to intuitively understand that deceleration has occurred because the vehicle speed entering the roundabout is above a predetermined value.

[0083] Figure 11 shows an example of the display area V3 in the embodiment, illustrating the state in which the deceleration support function is activated during autonomous driving. Note that in Figure 11, the first image 62, the second image 64, the third image 66, the fifth image 63, the sixth image 72, the seventh image 74, and the eighth image 76 are the same as in Figure 8.

[0084] As shown in Figure 11, to the left of the third image 66, the ninth image 78 is displayed, which shows the reason why the driving assistance function was activated. Specifically, the ninth image 78 is an image resembling a toll booth. Furthermore, a roughly rectangular mark 80 is displayed surrounding the ninth image 78.

[0085] In autonomous driving mode, the ninth image 78 is displayed in the display area V3 at approximately the same time that the driver assistance function that slows down the vehicle 12 is activated, allowing the occupant to intuitively understand that deceleration has occurred because the distance to the toll booth has fallen below a predetermined value.

[0086] In hands-off driving mode, the same display as in Figures 8 to 11 is shown, but the road color and the Mark 80 color may be displayed in different colors. For example, in a typical active cruise control mode, the road color and Mark 80 color may be displayed in green, while in hands-off driving mode, the road color and Mark 80 color may be displayed in blue.

[0087] (action) Next, the operation of this embodiment will be explained.

[0088] (Display processing) An example of a display process for displaying a predetermined image on the third display unit 26, which is the projection surface of the head-up display device 46, will be explained using the flowchart shown in Figure 12. This display process is performed by the CPU 30 reading a display program from the ROM 32 or storage 36, loading it into the RAM 34, and executing it.

[0089] In step S102, the CPU 30 acquires the driving mode. Specifically, the CPU 30 acquires information regarding the driving mode of the vehicle 12 through the function of the driving mode acquisition unit 52.

[0090] In step S104, the CPU 30 acquires information about the surrounding conditions. Specifically, the CPU 30 acquires data about the surrounding conditions of the vehicle 12 based on signals from sensors mounted on the vehicle 12.

[0091] In step S106, the CPU 30 determines whether or not the driving assistance function is operating. For example, based on information obtained from actuators such as the steering actuator, accelerator actuator, and brake actuator, the CPU 30 determines that the driving assistance function is operating if any of the actuators are operating.

[0092] If the CPU 30 determines in step S106 that the driving assistance function is activated, it proceeds to the processing in step S108. If it is determined that the function is not working, the display process will be terminated.

[0093] In step S108, the CPU 30 determines whether or not the vehicle is in manual driving mode. Specifically, based on the information obtained in step S102, if the vehicle 12 is in manual driving mode, the CPU 30 proceeds to step S112. On the other hand, if the vehicle 12 is in automatic driving mode, the CPU 30 determines that it is not in manual driving mode and proceeds to step S110.

[0094] If the driving mode of the vehicle 12 is manual driving mode, the CPU 30 displays the fourth image 68 and mark 70 in predetermined positions in step S112. Specifically, the CPU 30 displays the fourth image 68 corresponding to the reason for assistance in the display area V3 using the function of the support reason display unit 56. The CPU 30 also displays the mark 70 corresponding to the type of driving assistance function using the function of the mark display unit 58. In this way, the fourth image 68 and mark 70 shown in Figures 4 to 7 are displayed. Then, the CPU 30 terminates the display process.

[0095] On the other hand, if the driving mode of the vehicle 12 is automatic driving mode, the CPU 30 displays the ninth image 78 and the mark 80 in predetermined positions in step S110. Specifically, the CPU 30 displays the ninth image 78 corresponding to the reason for assistance in the display area V3 using the function of the support reason display unit 56. The CPU 30 also displays the mark 80 corresponding to the type of driving assistance function using the function of the mark display unit 58. In this way, the ninth image 78 and the mark 80 shown in Figures 8 to 11 are displayed. Then, the CPU 30 terminates the display process.

[0096] As described above, in the vehicle display control system 10 equipped with the vehicle display control device 28 according to this embodiment, predetermined information is displayed in the display areas V1 to V3 around the driver's seat when at least one driving support function, such as acceleration / deceleration or steering, is activated. Specifically, the support reason display unit 56 displays a fourth image 68 or a ninth image indicating the reason why the driving support function was activated in the display area V3. This allows the driver to understand the reason why the driving support function was activated by viewing the image displayed in the display area V3.

[0097] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the mark display unit 58 displays a mark 70 or mark 80 corresponding to the type of driving assistance function near the image. This allows the driver to understand the type of driving assistance function simply by glancing at the mark.

[0098] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the mark display unit 58 surrounds the image with a different shaped figure depending on the type of driving assistance function, so that the occupant can understand the type of driving assistance function simply by looking at the shape of the figure.

[0099] In particular, the mark display unit 58 of this embodiment displays different marks depending on whether it is assisting with vehicle acceleration, deceleration, or steering. This allows the occupant to understand whether acceleration, deceleration, or steering is being assisted simply by looking at the mark.

[0100] Furthermore, in this embodiment, different marks are displayed for manual driving mode and automatic driving mode, making it possible to understand which driving mode the driving assistance function is operating in. In particular, in this embodiment, even in automatic driving mode, different colors are displayed for active cruise control mode and hands-off mode, making it easy to understand which driving mode the driving assistance function is operating in.

[0101] In this embodiment, the position of the image and mark differs between manual driving mode and automatic driving mode. Therefore, the driver can activate the driving assistance function in either driving mode simply by confirming the position of the mark. You can find out what is happening.

[0102] Although the vehicle display control system 10 according to the embodiment has been described above, it goes without saying that it can be implemented in various forms without departing from the spirit of the present invention. For example, in the above embodiment, a configuration in which a predetermined image is displayed in the display area V3 of the third display unit 26 has been described, but it is not limited to this. For example, a configuration in which a predetermined image is displayed in the display area V1 of the first display unit 24 or the display area V2 of the second display unit 25 may be adopted.

[0103] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, a roughly rectangular shape surrounding the ninth image 78 was displayed as the mark 80, as shown in Figures 8 to 11, but the system is not limited to this. For example, the modified configurations shown in Figures 13 and 14 may also be adopted.

[0104] (First variation) Figure 13 shows an example of the display area in the first modified example, illustrating the state in which the deceleration support function is activated during autonomous driving. As shown in Figure 13, an image resembling an arrow indicating a curve is displayed as the ninth image 78, which indicates the reason why the driving support function was activated. In addition, a circular mark 90 is displayed surrounding the ninth image 78.

[0105] (Second variation) Figure 14 shows an example of the display area in the second modified example, illustrating the state in which the deceleration assistance function is activated during autonomous driving. As shown in Figure 14, an image resembling an arrow indicating a curve is displayed as the ninth image 78, which indicates the reason why the driving assistance function was activated. In addition, a triangular mark 90 is displayed surrounding the ninth image 78.

[0106] Furthermore, although the above embodiment described a driving support function for deceleration of the vehicle 12, similar displays may be provided for driving support functions such as acceleration and steering of the vehicle 12. For example, a rectangular mark may be displayed when the type of driving support function is deceleration, a circular mark may be displayed when the type of driving support function is acceleration, and a triangular mark may be displayed when the type of driving support function is steering.

[0107] Furthermore, the color of the mark may be changed during each of the driving assistance functions: deceleration, steering, and acceleration. For example, during deceleration assistance, the circular mark may be displayed in red; during steering assistance, the circular mark may be displayed in a color other than red, such as green; and during acceleration assistance, the circular mark may be displayed in a color other than red or green, such as yellow. In this case, the method is not limited to changing the color of the edge of the mark; the color within the frame of the mark may also be changed.

[0108] Furthermore, even with the same circular mark, the mark may be displayed in different ways depending on the type of driving assistance function, such as a double circle, a circle with a thick line, or a circle with a wavy line.

[0109] Furthermore, the configuration is not limited to displaying a shape surrounding the image as a mark. For example, a mark corresponding to the type of driving assistance function may be displayed adjacent to the image. Specifically, when decelerating, an animated downward-pointing arrow may be displayed adjacent to the image as a mark.

[0110] Furthermore, the processing that the CPU 30 reads and executes in the above embodiment may also be executed by various processors other than the CPU 30. In this case, the processors may include FPGAs (Field-Programmable Gate Arrays) and other PLDs (Programmable Logic Devices) whose circuit configuration can be changed after manufacturing, and ASICs (Application Spec Integrated Circuits). Examples include dedicated electrical circuits and other processors that have a circuit configuration specifically designed to perform specific processes such as those mentioned above. It may be executed by a single processor, or by a combination of two or more processors of the same or different types, for example, by multiple FPGAs, or by a combination of a CPU and an FPGA. More specifically, the hardware structure of these various processors is an electrical circuit made up of circuit elements such as semiconductor elements.

[0111] Furthermore, although the above embodiment uses a configuration in which various data is stored in the storage 36, the system is not limited to this. For example, non-temporary recording media such as CDs (Compact Disks), DVDs (Digital Versatile Disks), and USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory may be used as the storage unit. In this case, various programs and data will be stored in these recording media.

[0112] Furthermore, the processing flow described in the above embodiment is merely an example, and unnecessary steps may be deleted, new steps added, or the processing order rearranged, as long as it does not deviate from the main purpose. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0113] 28 Vehicle display control device 56 Support reason display section 58 Mark display section Images 68, 78 70, 80 marks V3 display area

Claims

1. A vehicle display control device that displays predetermined information in a display area around the driver's seat when at least one driving assistance control, such as acceleration, deceleration, and steering, is activated, The system displays a mark corresponding to the type of driving assistance control that was activated, along with an image indicating the reason why the driving assistance control was activated. Vehicle display control device.

2. The vehicle display control device according to claim 1, which displays a figure surrounding the aforementioned image as the aforementioned mark, and also displays marks of different shapes according to the type of driving assistance function.

3. The vehicle display control device according to claim 1, which displays different marks depending on whether or not it is in automatic driving mode.

4. The vehicle display control device according to claim 1, which displays the mark in a different position depending on whether or not it is in automatic driving mode.

5. The vehicle display control device according to claim 1, which displays the image when the distance between the vehicle and the preceding vehicle falls below a predetermined value.

6. A vehicle display control device according to claim 1, which displays the image when driving on a curve.

7. The vehicle display control device according to claim 1, which displays the image when the distance to a traffic light that is illuminated with a stop light color falls below a predetermined value.

8. The vehicle display control device according to claim 1, which displays the image when the distance to the stopping position falls below a predetermined value.

9. A vehicle display control method that displays predetermined information in a display area around the driver's seat when at least one driving assistance control, such as acceleration, deceleration, and steering, is activated, The system displays a mark corresponding to the type of driving assistance control that was activated, along with an image indicating the reason why the driving assistance control was activated. A method for controlling vehicle displays.

10. A program that causes a computer to perform a process to display predetermined information in a display area around the driver's seat when at least one of the driving assistance controls, such as acceleration, deceleration, and steering, is activated, The system displays a mark corresponding to the type of driving assistance control that was activated, along with an image indicating the reason why the driving assistance control was activated. A program that instructs a computer to perform a process.

Images