Display control device, in-vehicle display system, display control method and program

Abstract

The present invention provides a display and control device that allows the driver to simultaneously and easily grasp the current status of the vehicle and future situations that may be encountered along the driving route. [Solution] The display control device 10 includes an acquisition unit 11 that acquires first status information indicating the current status of a moving vehicle 2 and second status information indicating the status of the destination of the vehicle 2, and a display control unit that controls the display of the display units 30 and 30a. The display control unit switches between a first display mode in which the first status information acquired by the acquisition unit 11 is displayed on the display units 30 and 30a, and a second display mode in which the first status information and the second status information acquired by the acquisition unit 11 are displayed on the display units 30 and 30a in association with each other.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a display control device, an in-vehicle display system, a display control method, and a program.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, in order for a driver to grasp the road condition on the front side of a vehicle, a display control device that displays the driving status of the vehicle on a display has emerged. For example, in Patent Document 1, when a vehicle turns on a road, an image of content displayed on a display visible to a passenger of the vehicle is moved and displayed in the same direction as the direction in which the vehicle turns with respect to the display position before the turn, so that a display control device capable of clearly conveying the driving status of the vehicle to the passenger is disclosed.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, the display control device of Patent Document 1 can enable a driver to grasp the current driving status of the vehicle, but there is no measure taken to enable the driver to grasp the situation that the vehicle will encounter in the future on the driving route. For this reason, there is a problem that it is difficult for a driver to grasp in a short time a situation such as a curved road or a slope existing in the forward direction in the future.

[0005] Therefore, the present disclosure provides a display control device or the like that enables a driver to simultaneously grasp the current situation of the vehicle and the future situation that will be encountered in the future on the driving route.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] A display control device according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes an acquisition unit that acquires first status information indicating the current status of a moving vehicle and second status information indicating the status of the destination of the vehicle, and a display control unit that controls the display of a display unit, wherein the display control unit switches between a first display mode in which the first status information acquired by the acquisition unit is displayed on the display unit, and a second display mode in which the first status information and the second status information acquired by the acquisition unit are displayed on the display unit in association with each other. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] A display control device, etc., according to one aspect of this disclosure, allows the driver to simultaneously grasp the current situation in the vehicle and future situations that may be encountered along the driving route. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] Figure 1 shows the interior of a vehicle equipped with an in-vehicle display system having a display control device according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a block diagram of the vehicle. [Figure 3A] Figure 3A is a diagram showing the changes in the display modes shown by the first display unit and the second display unit. [Figure 3B] Figure 3B is a flowchart showing the operation of the display control device in Figure 3A. [Figure 4A] Figure 4A shows the changes in the display modes shown by the first display unit and the second display unit. [Figure 4B] Figure 4B is a flowchart showing the operation of the display control device in Figure 4A. [Figure 5] Figure 5 shows the changes in the display mode shown by the display unit. [Figure 6A] Figure 6A shows the changes in the display modes shown by the first display unit and the second display unit. [Figure 6B] Figure 6B is a flowchart showing the operation of the display control device in Figure 6A. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] The embodiments will be described below with reference to the drawings. The embodiments described below are all comprehensive or specific examples. The numerical values, shapes, materials, components, arrangement and connection configurations of components, steps, and the order of steps shown in the following embodiments are examples only and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. Furthermore, components in the following embodiments that are not described in an independent claim will be described as optional components.

[0010] Please note that each figure is a schematic diagram and not necessarily a strictly accurate representation. Furthermore, in each figure, substantially identical components are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant explanations may be omitted or simplified.

[0011] (Embodiment) <Configuration and Function> First, the display control device 10, the in-vehicle display system 1, the display control method, and the program of this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 3A.

[0012] Figure 1 shows the interior of a vehicle 2 equipped with an in-vehicle display system 1 having a display control device 10 according to an embodiment. Figure 2 is a block diagram of the vehicle 2. Figure 3A shows the changes in the display modes displayed by the first display unit 31 and the second display unit 32. Figures 3A(a) and (c) show a steady state, where, for example, the first status information is displayed across the first display unit 31 and the second display unit 32. The steady state is a state in which only the first status information is displayed, or a state in which the display of the second status information is unnecessary (a state in which there is no warning information at the destination). Figure 3A(b) shows a warning state, where, for example, the first display unit 31 displays the first status information and the second display unit 32 displays the second status information. The warning state is a state in which both the first and second status information are displayed, or a state in which the display of the second status information is necessary (a state in which there is warning information at the destination).

[0013] As shown in FIG. 1, the in-vehicle display system 1 is a system mounted on the vehicle 2 for displaying a display image on the display screen of one or more display units 30. In FIG. 1, an in-vehicle display system 1 equipped with a first display unit 31 and a second display unit 32 is illustrated. Note that the in-vehicle display system 1 may be equipped with one display unit 30, or may be equipped with three or more display units 30. In the present embodiment, the first display unit 31 and the second display unit 32 may be collectively referred to as the display unit 30.

[0014] In the in-vehicle display system 1, display information can be displayed on the display screen of the display unit 30 automatically or manually by the user. Further, in the in-vehicle display system 1, one display screen can be divided into a plurality of regions, and different information can be displayed in each of the plurality of regions.

[0015] The configuration and functions of the in-vehicle display system 1 will be described in more detail.

[0016] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the in-vehicle display system 1 includes an in-vehicle camera 21, a plurality of in-vehicle sensors 22, a navigation system 23, a display control device 10, a first display unit 31, and a second display unit 32.

[0017] The in-vehicle camera 21 is mounted on the vehicle 2 and is configured to acquire an image of the surroundings of the vehicle 2, such as the front, rear, and sides. The in-vehicle camera 21 outputs an image of the surroundings of the vehicle 2 to the display control device 10.

[0018] The plurality of in-vehicle sensors 22 include, for example, a vehicle speed sensor that detects the traveling speed of the vehicle 2, a LiDAR (Light Detection And Ranging), a sonar, a radar, and other distance measurement sensors that detect the distance between the vehicle 2 and other vehicles or the like existing around the vehicle 2, a steering angle sensor that measures the steering angle of the steering wheel mounted on the vehicle 2, a GPS (Global Positioning System) sensor that detects the current position of the vehicle 2, and the like. The plurality of in-vehicle sensors 22 are configured to acquire vehicle speed information indicating the vehicle speed of the vehicle 2 detected by the vehicle speed sensor, distance measurement information indicating the distance between the vehicle 2 and surrounding other vehicles detected by a distance measurement sensor such as LiDAR, sonar, or radar, steering angle information indicating the steering angle of the steering wheel detected by the steering angle sensor, position information indicating the current position of the vehicle 2 detected by the GPS sensor, and the like. The plurality of in-vehicle sensors 22 output vehicle speed information, distance measurement information, steering angle information, position information, and the like to the display control device 10.

[0019] The navigation system 23 is configured to acquire map information, route information indicating the planned travel route of the vehicle 2 on the map information, VICS (registered trademark) (Vehicle Information and Communication System) information, and the like. The navigation system 23 outputs map information, route information, VICS information, and the like to the display control device 10. The VICS information includes, for example, weather information indicating the weather, accident information indicating the content of the occurred accident and the position of the accident, and road surface information indicating the state of the road surface.

[0020] As shown in (a), (b), and (c) of FIG. 3A, the display control device 10 is configured to display, on the first display unit 31 and the second display unit 32 mounted on the vehicle 2, first situation information indicating the current situation of the traveling vehicle 2 and second situation information indicating the situation of the destination of the vehicle 2.

[0021] Specifically, the display control device 10 includes an acquisition unit 11, a display determination unit 12, an image generation unit 13, and an image output unit 14.

[0022] The acquisition unit 11 is configured to acquire images of the area around the vehicle 2 output by the in-vehicle camera 21, acquire vehicle speed information, distance measurement information, etc., output by each of the multiple in-vehicle sensors 22, and acquire route information and VICS information, etc., output by the navigation system 23. Based on the images of the area around the vehicle 2, vehicle speed information, distance measurement information, route information, and VICS information, the acquisition unit 11 acquires first situation information and second situation information. The acquisition unit 11 outputs the acquired first situation information and second situation information to the display determination unit 12.

[0023] As shown in Figure 3A(a), the first status information is information indicating the current status of the moving vehicle 2. The first status information includes, for example, a content image showing the vehicle 2 being driven by the driver, an image taken of the area around the vehicle 2, vehicle speed information, distance measurement information, steering angle information, and position information. The first status information can also be described as current vehicle information and information about the area around the vehicle acquired by multiple on-board sensors 22. The image taken of the area around the vehicle 2 is an image taken of the vehicle's position where the vehicle 2 is located, and an area within a range of several meters from that vehicle position.

[0024] As shown in Figure 3A(b), the second situation information is information indicating the conditions at the destination of vehicle 2. More specifically, the second situation information does not include the first situation information (information about the area around the vehicle) and is information about the travel route within a predetermined time or distance range from the current vehicle position. For example, as shown in Figure 3A(b), the second situation information is information within a range of 30m to 1km from the current position towards the destination on the travel route. If the second situation information includes information that should be presented to the driver of vehicle 2, the second situation information includes caution information and information to be presented to the driver. The information that should be presented to the driver is information to alert the driver to conditions at the destination of vehicle 2 that will occur in the near future.

[0025] Warning information is information intended to notify the driver of any situations requiring attention that exist in the path ahead of vehicle 2. For example, warning information may include warning information created based on map information, warning information created based on weather information, and warning information created based on accident information. The warning information may also include the distance to the point indicated by the warning information. Furthermore, the warning information may consist only of information such as "left turn ahead," "road with a left curve ahead," or "uphill slope ahead."

[0026] The warning information created based on map information includes information indicating the content of road signs in the path of vehicle 2, level crossings in the path of vehicle 2, traffic lights in the path of vehicle 2, curved roads in the path of vehicle 2, and steep roads in the path of vehicle 2. Note that information regarding road signs, level crossings, traffic lights, curved roads, and steep roads may also be obtained based on images taken in front of vehicle 2.

[0027] The warning information, created based on weather data, includes information indicating rainfall at the destination of vehicle 2, fog at the destination of vehicle 2, etc.

[0028] The warning information created based on accident data includes information indicating the details and location of past accidents that occurred in the area where Vehicle 2 was traveling.

[0029] Furthermore, the attention information is information intended to prompt the driver to operate vehicle 2 in accordance with the attention information. For example, the attention information includes attention information for road surface conditions created based on road surface information, attention information for sharply curving roads created based on map information, and attention information for visibility conditions created based on weather information.

[0030] Information that requires attention regarding road conditions includes, for example, information that instructs the driver to "press the accelerator" or "press the brake."

[0031] Information regarding warnings for roads with sharp curves includes, for example, warnings to drivers such as "Caution: Steering Wheel."

[0032] Attention information regarding visibility conditions includes, for example, information instructing the driver to "turn on the fog lights" or "activate the wipers."

[0033] The display determination unit 12 is configured to determine whether the second situation information acquired by the acquisition unit 11 is information that should be presented to the driver. The display determination unit 12 outputs this determination result to the image generation unit 13. The display determination unit 12 is included as a component of the display control unit.

[0034] Here, the display control unit is configured to switch between a first display mode in which the first status information acquired by the acquisition unit 11 is displayed on the display unit 30, and a second display mode in which the first status information and the second status information acquired by the acquisition unit 11 are displayed on the display unit 30 in association with each other. Specifically, the display control unit determines whether or not to switch from the first display mode to the second display mode. For example, if the second status information acquired by the acquisition unit 11 contains information that should be presented to the driver, the display control unit determines to switch from the first display mode to the second display mode. Note that this determination and other processing may be performed by the display determination unit 12.

[0035] The image generation unit 13 is configured to generate display images to be displayed on the first display unit 31 and the second display unit 32 based on the determination result output by the display determination unit 12. The image generation unit 13 is included as a component of the display control unit.

[0036] For example, as shown in Figure 3A(a), when the first display unit 31 and the second display unit 32 are in a steady state, the display determination unit 12 may determine that the second situation information acquired by the acquisition unit 11 is information that should be presented to the driver. In this case, as shown in Figure 3A(b), the image generation unit 13 can change the first display unit 31 and the second display unit 32 from a steady state to a warning state by displaying the first situation information and the second situation information in association with each other on the first display unit 31 and the second display unit 32. In other words, the image generation unit 13 outputs the display image of the first status information, which was displayed across the first display unit 31 and the second display unit 32, to the first display unit 31 and the second display unit 32 via the image output unit 14. This allows the display image of the first status information to be displayed on the first display unit 31 and the display image of the second status information to be displayed on the second display unit 32. Note that in Figure 3A(b), only the second status information is displayed, but this is not the only option. For example, the second display unit 32 may display an image of the area in front of the vehicle 2 acquired from the navigation system 23 or the like, rather than an image of the area around the vehicle 2 displayed on the first display unit 31, and display the warning information and the warning target information superimposed on this forward image. Furthermore, the second display unit 32 may display the second status information superimposed on the first status information shown in Figures 3A(a) and (c).

[0037] Furthermore, if the first display unit 31 and the second display unit 32 are in a steady state, the display determination unit 12 may determine that the second status information acquired by the acquisition unit 11 is not information that should be presented to the driver. In this case, the image generation unit 13 can return the first display unit 31 and the second display unit 32 to a steady state by displaying the first status information on the first display unit 31 and the second display unit 32 via the image output unit 14, as shown in Figures 3A(a) and (c). In other words, the image generation unit 13 can display the display image of the first status information across the first display unit 31 and the second display unit 32 by outputting the display image of the first status information to the first display unit 31 and the second display unit 32 via the image output unit 14.

[0038] Furthermore, the determination of whether the second situation information is information that should be presented to the driver may be made by checking whether the second situation information is included in a database pre-stored in a storage unit (not shown). Alternatively, the determination of whether the second situation information is information that should be presented to the driver may be made using a learning unit that has been machine-trained on images of the area around the vehicle 2 acquired from the acquisition unit 11, vehicle speed information, distance measurement information, route information, VICS information, etc., and information that should be presented to the driver. In this case, the display determination unit 12 may have a learning unit.

[0039] Furthermore, the image generation unit 13 can change the content image representing the vehicle 2 displayed on the display unit 30 according to the steering angle of the vehicle 2, based on the steering angle information acquired from the acquisition unit 11. For example, if the vehicle 2 is traveling on a road that curves to the right or to the left, the image generation unit 13 changes the posture of the vehicle 2 to the same direction as the direction in which the vehicle 2 is turning, as represented in the content image. Specifically, if the vehicle 2 is traveling on a road that curves to the right, the image generation unit 13 displays a content image of the vehicle 2 showing its right side on the display unit 30. If the vehicle 2 is traveling on a road that curves to the left, the image generation unit 13 displays a content image of the vehicle 2 showing its left side on the display unit 30.

[0040] The image output unit 14 is configured to acquire the display image output by the image generation unit 13 and output it to the display unit 30. For example, the image output unit 14 can output the display image of the first status information to the first display unit 31 and the display image of the second status information to the second display unit 32. The image output unit 14 can also output the display image of the first status information to both the first display unit 31 and the second display unit 32.

[0041] The first display unit 31 and the second display unit 32 are monitors mounted on the vehicle 2. For example, the first display unit 31 may be a vehicle instrument such as a speedometer, and the second display unit 32 may be a head-up display. In addition to the speedometer, the vehicle instrument may also include, for example, a fuel gauge, odometer, water temperature gauge, turn signal indicator lights, warning lights, shift position indicator, etc. In Figure 3A and subsequent figures, for the sake of clarity, displays such as the fuel gauge are not shown, and the first display unit 31 and the second display unit 32 are shown with rectangular frames.

[0042] When the image output unit 14 outputs a display image of the first status information, the first display unit 31 displays a portion of the display image of the first status information, and the second display unit 32 displays the remainder of the display image of the first status information.

[0043] For example, as shown in Figures 3A(a) and (c), when the image output unit 14 outputs a display image of the first status information, the first display unit 31 displays the current status of the vehicle 2, including an image of the vehicle 2 being driven by the driver, an image of the road on which the vehicle 2 is traveling, the speed of travel, and the vehicle in front, as part of the first status information. The second display unit 32 also displays the image of the road on which the vehicle 2 is traveling and an image of the preceding vehicle acquired by the on-board sensor 22 as the remaining information of the first display status information.

[0044] When the image output unit 14 outputs a display image of the first status information and a display image of the second status information, the second display unit 32 displays the display image of the second status information, and the first display unit 31 displays the display image of the first status information.

[0045] For example, as shown in Figure 3A(b), when the image output unit 14 outputs a display image of the first situation information and a display image of the second situation information, the second display unit 32 displays information indicating the situation of the vehicle 2's destination as second situation information, such as a display image of warning information, "50m ahead, sharp curve, be careful not to go off course," and a display image of information to be warned about, "Handle with care." The first display unit 31 also displays a display image of the first situation information.

[0046] Figure 3A of this embodiment illustrates a case where the first display unit 31 and the second display unit 32 are arranged side by side in the vertical direction, but the invention is not limited to this. For example, the first display unit 31 and the second display unit 32 may be arranged side by side in the horizontal direction.

[0047] <Display Mode 1> Now, with reference to Figure 3A, the display mode 1 of the display images of the first status information and the second status information displayed in the first display unit 31 and the second display unit 32 will be described.

[0048] As shown in Figure 3A(a), when the first status information is displayed in a steady state from the first display unit 31 to the second display unit 32, the display determination unit 12 may determine that the second status information is information that should be presented to the driver.

[0049] At this time, when the display image of the first situation information is displayed across the first display unit 31 and the second display unit 32, if the display determination unit 12 determines that the second situation information is information that should be presented to the driver, the image generation unit 13 reduces the size of the display image of the first situation information and displays the first situation information and the second situation information in association with each other on the first display unit 31 and the second display unit 32, as shown in Figure 3A(b). In other words, the image generation unit 13 reduces the size of the display image of the first situation information, which was displayed across the first display unit 31 and the second display unit 32, so that it fits on the display screen of the first display unit 31, and generates the display image of the second situation information so that it fits on the display screen of the second display unit 32. As a result, the image generation unit 13 can display the display image of the first situation information on the display screen of the first display unit 31 and the display image of the second situation information on the display screen of the second display unit 32.

[0050] When the displays of the first display unit 31 and the second display unit 32 are in a warning state, if the vehicle 2 passes the point indicated by the second situation information, the display determination unit 12 determines that the second situation information is not information that should be presented to the driver. In this case, as shown in Figure 3A(c), the image generation unit 13 switches to displaying the display image of the first situation information across the first display unit 31 and the second display unit 32.

[0051] In this display configuration, multiple second status information items may be displayed on the second display unit 32, and the display configuration is not limited to this configuration.

[0052] <Example of operation 1> Here, with reference to Figure 3B, an example of the operation of the display control device 10, the display control method, and the program will be described.

[0053] Figure 3B is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the display control device 10 in Figure 3A. Figure 3B assumes that, as shown in Figure 3A(a), the first display unit 31 and the second display unit 32 are mounted on the vehicle 2, and that the display image of the first status information is displayed in a steady state across the first display unit 31 and the second display unit 32.

[0054] First, the acquisition unit 11 acquires first situation information and second situation information based on images of the area around the vehicle 2 obtained from an in-vehicle camera 21 mounted on the vehicle 2, vehicle speed information, distance measurement information, and GPS information obtained from multiple in-vehicle sensors 22 mounted on the vehicle 2, and route information and VICS information obtained from a navigation system 23 mounted on the vehicle 2 (S11: acquisition step).

[0055] Next, the display determination unit 12 evaluates the case related to the second situation information acquired by the acquisition unit 11 (S12).

[0056] For example, the display determination unit 12 evaluates whether the information regarding the driving route within a predetermined time or distance range from the current vehicle position indicated by the second situation information contains information that should be presented to the driver. This evaluation may also be performed by checking whether or not it is included in the database of a storage unit (not shown), or by using a display determination unit 12 that has a learning unit that has machine-learned the second situation information and the information that the second situation information should present to the driver.

[0057] Next, the display determination unit 12 evaluates the second situation information and determines whether or not the second situation information contains information that should be presented to the driver (S13).

[0058] If the display determination unit 12 determines that the second situation information contains information that should be presented to the driver (YES in S13), the image generation unit 13 reduces the display image of the first situation information (S14) and displays the first situation information and the second situation information in association on the display unit 30 (S15: display step), as shown in Figures 3A(b) and 3B. Specifically, if the second situation information contains information that should be presented to the driver, the image generation unit 13 reduces the display image of the first situation information and displays it on the first display unit 31, and displays the display image of the second situation information on the second display unit 32.

[0059] As a result, the first display unit 31 displays an image of the first situation information, and the second display unit 32 displays an image of the second situation information, allowing the driver to grasp both the first and second situation information simultaneously. The display control device 10 then returns to step S11 of the flowchart in Figure 3B.

[0060] Next, after steps S11 and S12, if the display determination unit 12 determines that the second situation information does not contain any information that should be presented to the driver (NO in S13), the image generation unit 13 displays the display image of the first situation information that is currently displayed on the first display unit 31, extending from the first display unit 31 to the second display unit 32 (S16).

[0061] As a result, the display image of the first situation information is displayed across the first display unit 31 and the second display unit 32, allowing the driver to grasp the first situation information. The display control device 10 then returns the process of the flowchart in Figure 3B back to step S11.

[0062] <Display Mode 2> Now, with reference to Figure 4A, the display mode 2 of the display images of the first status information and the display images of the second status information displayed in the first display unit 31 and the second display unit 32 will be described.

[0063] Figure 4A is a diagram showing the changes in the display modes shown by the first display unit 31 and the second display unit 32.

[0064] Figures 4A(a) and (d) show a steady state in which the display image of the first status information is displayed across the first display unit 31 and the second display unit 32. Figure 4A(b) shows a caution state in which the display image of the first status information is displayed on the first display unit 31 and the display image of the second status information is displayed on the second display unit 32. Figure 4A(c) shows a caution state in which, after a predetermined period of time has elapsed since Figure 4A(b), the display image of the first status information and the symbol S1 indicating the second status information are displayed on the first display unit 31, and the display image of the second status information is displayed on the second display unit 32.

[0065] Note that Figure 4A(a) is the same as Figure 3A(a), Figure 4A(b) is the same as Figure 3A(b), and Figure 4A(d) is the same as Figure 3A(c), so explanations will be omitted as appropriate.

[0066] As shown in Figure 4A(a), when the first display unit 31 and the second display unit 32 are in a steady state, if the display determination unit 12 determines that the second situation information is information that should be presented to the driver, then, as shown in Figure 4A(b), the image generation unit 13 generates a display image of the first situation information so that it fits on the display screen of the first display unit 31, and generates a display image of the second situation information so that it fits on the display screen of the second display unit 32. Furthermore, when the image generation unit 13 displays the display image of the second situation information on the second display unit 32, it superimposes and displays the symbol S1 indicating the second situation information on the display image of the first situation information displayed on the first display unit 31. In this way, the image generation unit 13 can display the display image of the first situation information and the symbol S1 indicating the second situation information on the display screen of the first display unit 31, and display the display image of the second situation information on the display screen of the second display unit 32. The symbol S1 is an image that allows the driver to intuitively understand the location where the information indicated by the second situation information occurs. In Figure 4A(b), the symbol S1 is displayed in front of the preceding vehicle to indicate that there is a point ahead indicated by the warning information in the second situation information.

[0067] As shown in Figure 4A(c), as the vehicle 2 moves over time, it approaches the position indicated by the symbol S1 of the second situation information. Therefore, the image generation unit 13 can change the first and second situation information displayed on the display unit 30 according to the distance from the vehicle 2 to the point indicated by the second situation information. In other words, the image generation unit 13 updates the display image of the first situation information and the size and display position of the symbol S1 indicating the second situation information and displays them on the display screen of the first display unit 31, and updates the display image of the warning information of the second situation information and displays it on the display screen of the second display unit 32.

[0068] For example, the image generation unit 13 updates the display image of the warning information for the second situation information, "50m ahead, sharp curve, caution against going off course," shown in Figure 4A(b), to the display image of the warning information for the second situation information, "30m ahead, sharp curve, caution against going off course," shown in Figure 4A(c), and displays it on the second display unit 32. In addition, the image generation unit 13 further enlarges the size and display position of the symbol S1 (dot-shaped hatched frame) indicating the second situation information, as shown in Figure 4A(b), and displays it on the first display unit 31 to indicate the display location that is the target of the second situation information, as shown in Figure 4A(c). In this way, in this embodiment, by updating the size and display position of the symbol S1 while displaying it, the driver can be intuitively notified that the point indicated by the second situation information is approaching.

[0069] Then, when vehicle 2 passes the location indicated by the second situation information, as shown in Figure 4A(d), the image generation unit 13 switches to displaying the display image of the first situation information in a steady state, from the first display unit 31 to the second display unit 32.

[0070] In this display configuration, multiple second status information items may be displayed on the second display unit 32, and the display configuration is not limited to this configuration.

[0071] <Example of operation 2> Here, with reference to Figure 4B, an example of the operation of the display control device 10, the display control method, and the program (Example 2) will be described.

[0072] Figure 4B is a flowchart showing the operation of the display control device 10 in Figure 4A. Figure 4B assumes that, as shown in Figure 4A(a), the first display unit 31 and the second display unit 32 are mounted on the vehicle 2, and that the display image of the first status information is displayed in a steady state from the first display unit 31 to the second display unit 32. Processes identical to those in Figure 3B are denoted by the same reference numerals and their explanations are omitted as appropriate.

[0073] First, after going through steps S11 to S15, and further, as shown in Figures 4A(b), (c) and 4B, the image generation unit 13, when displaying the display image of the second situation information on the second display unit 32, superimposes and displays a symbol S1 indicating the location where the information indicated by the second situation information originates onto the display image of the first situation information displayed on the first display unit 31 (S15a). As a result, the image generation unit 13 can display the display image of the first situation information and the symbol S1 indicating the second situation information on the display screen of the first display unit 31, and display the display image of the second situation information on the display screen of the second display unit 32.

[0074] The first display unit 31 displays an image of the first situation information and a symbol S1 indicating the second situation information, and the second display unit 32 displays an image of the second situation information. Therefore, the driver can understand the first and second situation information in association. The display control device 10 then returns the process of the flowchart in Figure 4B back to step S11.

[0075] Next, if the result is NO in step S13 after steps S11 and S12, the display control device 10 returns to step S11 via step S16.

[0076] <Display Mode 3> Now, with reference to Figure 5, the display modes 3 for the display images of the first status information and the second status information displayed on one display unit 30a will be described.

[0077] Figure 5 shows the changes in the display mode shown by the display unit 30a. Figures 5(a) and 5(c) show a steady state in which the display image of the first status information is displayed on the display unit 30a. Figure 5(b) shows a caution state in which the display image of the first status information is displayed on the first display screen 31a and the display image of the second status information is displayed on the second display screen 32a. Although Figure 5(b) illustrates a case where the display unit is divided into two display screens, it is not limited to this. The display unit 30a may be divided into three or more display screens.

[0078] In Figures 3A and 4A above, when the first display unit 31 and the second display unit 32 are mounted on the vehicle 2, the image generation unit 13 displays the display image of the first status information on the first display unit 31 and the display image of the second status information on the second display unit 32 when a warning state is in effect. However, this display configuration is not limited to this. For example, when one display unit 30a is mounted on the vehicle 2, as shown in Figure 5(b), the display unit 30a may be divided into a first display screen 31a and a second display screen 32a.

[0079] In this case, as shown in Figure 5, the image generation unit 13 may display the display image of the first status information on the first display screen when the attention state is active, and display the display image of the second status information on the second display screen.

[0080] Note that the operation example in Figure 5 is the same as the operation examples in this embodiment, so its explanation will be omitted.

[0081] In this display configuration, multiple second status information items may be displayed on the display unit 30a, and the display configuration is not limited to this configuration.

[0082] The first display screen 31a and the second display screen 32a may be of the same size or may be of different sizes.

[0083] <Display Mode 4> Now, with reference to Figure 6A, the display modes 4 of the display images of the first status information and the display images of the multiple second status information displayed in the first display unit 31 and the second display unit 32 will be described.

[0084] Figure 6A is a diagram showing the changes in the display modes displayed by the first display unit 31 and the second display unit 32.

[0085] Figure 6A(a) shows a steady state in which the display image of the first status information is displayed across the first display unit 31 and the second display unit 32. In Figure 6A(b), the first display unit 31 displays the display image of the first status information and symbols S1 and S2 indicating multiple second status information, while the second display unit 32 displays the display images of the warning information T1 and T2 included in the multiple second status information and the display images of the warning target information U1 and U2. In Figure 6A(c), after a predetermined period has elapsed since Figure 6A(b), the first display unit 31 displays the display image of the first status information, symbols S1 and S2 indicating multiple second status information and the display image of the warning information T1 included in the second status information, while the second display unit 32 displays the display images of the warning information T2 and T3 included in the multiple second status information and the display image of the warning target information U2.

[0086] Note that Figure 6A(a) is the same as Figure 3A(a) and Figure 4A(a), so the explanation will be omitted as appropriate.

[0087] As shown in Figure 6A(a), in a steady state where only the first situation information is displayed, if the display determination unit 12 determines that the second situation information is information that should be presented to the driver, then, as shown in Figure 6A(b), the image generation unit 13 generates a display image of the first situation information, scaled down to fit on the display screen of the first display unit 31, and generates multiple display images of the second situation information to fit on the display screen of the second display unit 32. Furthermore, when the image generation unit 13 displays multiple display images of the second situation information on the second display unit 32, it superimposes symbols S1 and S2 indicating the multiple second situation information onto the display image of the first situation information displayed on the first display unit 31. As a result, the image generation unit 13 can display the display image of the first situation information and the symbols S1 and S2 indicating the multiple second situation information on the display screen of the first display unit 31, and display the display images of the warning information T1 and T2 and the warning target information U1 and U2 included in the multiple second situation information on the display screen of the second display unit 32. As shown in Figure 6A(b), by using the same line type (dark dotted frame) as the frame of the display image for warning information T1 as for symbol S1, the display image for warning information T1 and the location indicated by symbol S1 are associated. Similarly, by surrounding the display image for warning information T2 with the same line type (light dotted frame) as for symbol S2, the display image for warning information T2 and the location indicated by symbol S2 are associated. This allows the driver to intuitively understand the location of warning information T1 and the location of warning information T2. ​​Note that instead of the same line type, the same color, the same flashing pattern, etc., may also be used. Furthermore, the frames of the display images for the warning target information U1 and U2 may also be the same line type or color, etc., as the related symbols S1 and S2. This allows the driver to be presented with the location to pay attention to, the information about that location, and the necessary actions at that location in an associated manner.

[0088] As shown in Figure 6A(c), when the location indicated by the warning information T1 of the second situation information enters the display range of the first display unit 31, the image generation unit 13 moves the display image of the warning information T1, which was displayed on the second display unit 32 as the second situation information, from the second display unit 32 to the first display unit 31. As a result, the first display unit 31 can display multiple symbols S1 and S2, and the display image of the warning information T1, superimposed on the display image of the first situation information. The second display unit 32 can also display the warning information T2 and T3 included in the multiple second situation information, as well as the display image and the display image of the warning target information U2. If new warning information exists, the second display unit 32 will display the warning information T3 as new warning information.

[0089] <Example of operation 3> Here, with reference to Figure 6B, an example of the operation of the display control device 10, the display control method, and the program (Example 3) will be described.

[0090] Figure 6B is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the display control device 10 in Figure 6A. Figure 6B assumes that, as shown in Figure 6A(a), the first display unit 31 and the second display unit 32 are mounted on the vehicle 2, and that the display image of the first status information is displayed in a steady state across the first display unit 31 and the second display unit 32. Processes identical to those in Figures 3B and 4B are denoted by the same reference numerals and their explanations are omitted as appropriate.

[0091] First, as shown in Figure 6B, the acquisition unit 11 acquires first situation information and a plurality of second situation information based on an image of the area around the vehicle 2 obtained from an on-board camera 21 mounted on the vehicle 2, vehicle speed information, distance measurement information, and GPS information obtained from a plurality of on-board sensors 22 mounted on the vehicle 2, and route information and VICS information obtained from a navigation system 23 mounted on the vehicle 2 (S11a: acquisition step).

[0092] Next, the display determination unit 12 evaluates the cases related to the multiple second status information acquired by the acquisition unit 11 (S12).

[0093] For example, since each second status information contains multiple pieces of information acquired from the acquisition unit 11, the display determination unit 12 evaluates whether each second status information is information indicating the situation at the destination of the vehicle 2, and whether each second status information contains information that should be presented to the driver.

[0094] Next, the display determination unit 12 evaluates each of the second situation information and determines whether at least a portion of the multiple second situation information contains information that should be presented to the driver (S13a).

[0095] If the display determination unit 12 determines that at least a portion of the multiple second situation information contains information that should be presented to the driver (YES in S13a), the image generation unit 13 reduces the display image of the first situation information (S14) and displays the first situation information and at least a portion of the multiple second situation information in association with each other on the display unit 30 (S15A: display step). Specifically, if the multiple second situation information contains information that should be presented to the driver, the image generation unit 13 reduces the display image of the first situation information and displays it on the first display unit 31, and displays the display images of at least a portion of the multiple second situation information on the second display unit 32.

[0096] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 6A(b) and 6B, when the image generation unit 13 displays display images of at least some of the multiple second status information on the second display unit 32, it superimposes a symbol indicating the partial second status information onto the display image of the first status information displayed on the first display unit 31, associating it with the corresponding second status information (S15a). This allows the image generation unit 13 to display the display image of the first status information and the symbol indicating the partial second status information on the display screen of the first display unit 31, and to display the display image of the partial second status information on the display screen of the second display unit 32. It also allows the image generation unit 13 to indicate that the symbol indicating the partial second status information displayed on the first display unit 31 is related to the partial second status information displayed on the second display unit 32.

[0097] As a result, the first display unit 31 displays an image of the first situation information and a symbol indicating a part of the second situation information, and the second display unit 32 displays multiple images of the second situation information, so that the driver can understand the first situation information and the multiple second situation information in association with each other.

[0098] Next, the display determination unit 12 determines whether the point indicated by the closest second situation information (for example, the point of warning information T1) among the partial second situation information has entered the display range of the first display unit 31 (S15b).

[0099] For example, in Figures 6A(b) and 6B, the second display unit 32 displays an image of warning information T1 that reads "50m ahead, be careful of going off course on a sharp curve", an image of the target information U1 that corresponds to warning information T1 and reads "Be careful with the steering wheel", an image of warning information T2 that reads "450m ahead, be careful of speed reduction on an uphill slope", and an image of the target information U2 that corresponds to warning information T2 and reads "Press the accelerator". At this time, among these two display images of second situation information, the display determination unit 12 can determine whether the point indicated by the warning information T1 of the second situation information that is closest in distance from the vehicle 2 has entered the display range of the first display unit 31.

[0100] If the display determination unit 12 determines that the point indicated by the closest second status information among the partial second status information is not within the display range of the first display unit 31 (NO in S15b), it returns to step S15b.

[0101] On the other hand, as shown in Figure 6A(c) and Figure 6B, if the display determination unit 12 determines that the point indicated by the closest second situation information among the partial second situation information has entered the display range of the first display unit 31 (YES in S15b), the image generation unit 13 displays the display image of the warning information T1 corresponding to that point, moving it from the second display unit 32 to the first display unit 31 (S15c).

[0102] For example, when vehicle 2 moves "50m" from the state shown in Figure 6A(b), the display determination unit 12 determines that the point indicated by the warning information T1 of the second situation information has entered the display range of the first display unit 31. Therefore, as shown in Figure 6A(c), the image generation unit 13 moves the display image of the warning information T1 of the second situation information corresponding to that point from the second display unit 32 to the first display unit 31 and displays it on the first display unit 31. Then, in Figure 6A(c), the image generation unit 13 moves the display positions of the warning information T2 and the warning target information U2 closer to the first display unit 31, and modifies the warning information T2 from "450m ahead, uphill, speed reduction warning" to "400m ahead, uphill, speed reduction warning" and displays it on the second display unit 32. Furthermore, in Figure 6A(c), since new second situation information exists, the image generation unit 13 displays the "Caution: Signal 900m Ahead" display image, indicated by the new second situation information warning information T3, on the second display unit 32.

[0103] Then, the display control device 10 returns the process of the flowchart in Figure 6B back to step S11a.

[0104] Next, after steps S11a and S12 have been completed, the display determination unit 12 evaluates each of the second status information and determines whether at least some of the multiple second status information contains information that should be presented to the driver (S13a). If, as a result of evaluating each of the second status information, the display determination unit 12 determines that none of the second status information contains information that should be presented to the driver (NO in S13a), it displays the display image of the first status information from the first display unit 31 to the second display unit 32 (S16), and the display control device 10 returns to step S11a of the flowchart in Figure 6B.

[0105] <Effects and Effects> Next, the effects of the display control device 10, the in-vehicle display system 1, the display control method, and the program of this embodiment will be described.

[0106] The display control device 10 of Technology 1 according to this embodiment includes an acquisition unit 11 that acquires first status information indicating the current status of a moving vehicle 2 and second status information indicating the status of the destination of the vehicle 2, and a display control unit that controls the display of the display units 30 and 30a. The display control unit switches between a first display mode in which the first status information acquired by the acquisition unit 11 is displayed on the display units 30 and 30a, and a second display mode in which the first status information and the second status information acquired by the acquisition unit 11 are displayed on the display units 30 and 30a in association with each other.

[0107] According to this, the display units 30 and 30a can switch between a first display mode that displays first status information according to the vehicle's driving conditions and a second display mode that displays both the first and second status information. When the display units 30 and 30a switch to the second display mode, they can display the first and second status information in association with each other.

[0108] Therefore, with this display control device 10, the driver can simultaneously and easily grasp the current situation of the vehicle 2 and future situations that may be encountered along the driving route.

[0109] The display control device 10 of Technology 2 according to this embodiment is the display control device 10 described in Technology 1. In this case, in the second display mode, the second status information includes warning information and warning target information, the warning information is information for notifying the driver of a vehicle of an event that requires attention that exists in the vehicle's travel path, and the warning target information is information for prompting the driver to operate the vehicle 2 in accordance with the warning information.

[0110] According to this, warning information and information on what the driver should do in response to the warning information can be displayed simultaneously on the display units 30 and 30a. Therefore, the driver can grasp the warning information and the information on what the driver should do at the same time and easily.

[0111] The display control device 10 of Technology 3 according to this embodiment is the display control device 10 described in Technology 1 or 2. In this case, when the acquisition unit 11 is displaying the first status information acquired by the acquisition unit 11 on the display units 30, 30a in the first display mode, and the acquisition unit 11 acquires second status information and switches the display units 30, 30a to the second display mode, the display control unit reduces the display image of the first status information and displays the first status information and the second status information in association on the display units 30, 30a.

[0112] According to this, when switching from the first display mode to the second display mode, the first situation information can be reduced in size, allowing the reduced first situation information to be displayed in association with the second situation information. As a result, the driver can grasp the first and second situation information simultaneously and more easily.

[0113] The display control device 10 of Technology 4 according to this embodiment is the display control device 10 described in Technology 3. In this case, the display unit 30 includes a first display unit 31 and a second display unit 32 arranged vertically, and when the acquisition unit 11 is displaying the first status information acquired by the acquisition unit 11 on the first display unit 31 and the second display unit 32 in the first display mode, the display control unit, when the acquisition unit 11 acquires second status information and switches the display unit 30 to the second display mode, reduces the display image of the first status information and displays it on the first display unit 31, and displays the display image of the second status information on the second display unit 32.

[0114] According to this, by switching from the first display mode to the second display mode, the reduced first status information can be displayed on the first display unit 31, and the second status information can be displayed on the second display unit 32, which is freed up by the reduction. As a result, the driver can grasp both the first and second status information simultaneously and more easily.

[0115] Furthermore, when the first display unit 31 and the second display unit 32 display roads, the first display unit 31 and the second display unit 32 are arranged vertically, making it easier to intuitively recognize that the upper display shows the situation ahead of the vehicle.

[0116] The display control device 10 of Technology 5 according to this embodiment is the display control device 10 described in Technology 4. In this case, when the display control unit causes the second display unit 32 to display a display image of the second status information, it displays a symbol indicating the second status information superimposed on the display image of the first status information displayed by the first display unit 31.

[0117] According to this, the driver can grasp the display image of the second situation information displayed on the second display unit 32, along with the display image of the first situation information displayed on the first display unit 31, and the symbol of the second situation information, thereby enabling them to grasp the first and second situation information simultaneously and more easily.

[0118] Furthermore, even if the driver is looking at either the first display unit 31 or the second display unit 32, the second situation information is displayed on both the first display unit 31 and the second display unit 32, making it easier for the driver to grasp the presence of the second situation information.

[0119] The display control device 10 of Technology 6 according to this embodiment is the display control device 10 described in Technology 4 or 5. In this case, when the location indicated by the second status information enters the display range of the first display unit 31, the display control unit causes the display image of the second status information to move from the second display unit 32 to the first display unit 31.

[0120] According to this, the driver will be able to easily understand when the location indicated by the second situation information has entered the display range of the first display unit 31.

[0121] The display control device 10 of Technology 7 according to this embodiment is the display control device 10 described in Technology 1 or 2. In this case, the acquisition unit 11 acquires a plurality of second status information, and the display control unit, in the second display mode, associates the first status information acquired by the acquisition unit 11 with at least a portion of the plurality of second status information and displays them on the display units 30, 30a.

[0122] According to this, by switching from the first display mode to the second display mode, the first situation information and at least a portion of the multiple second situation information can be displayed in association on the display units 30 and 30a, so that the driver can grasp the first situation information and at least a portion of the multiple second situation information simultaneously and more easily.

[0123] The display control device 10 of Technology 8 according to this embodiment is the display control device 10 described in Technology 7. In this case, when the display control unit is displaying the first status information acquired by the acquisition unit 11 on the display units 30, 30a in the first display mode, and the acquisition unit 11 acquires a plurality of second status information and switches the display unit 30 to the second display mode, the display control unit reduces the display image of the first status information and displays the first status information and at least a portion of the plurality of second status information in association on the display units 30, 30a.

[0124] According to this, when multiple second-level situational information items exist, switching from the first display mode to the second display mode allows the reduced-size first-level situational information to be displayed in association with at least some of the multiple second-level situational information items. As a result, the driver can grasp the first-level situational information and at least some of the multiple second-level situational information items simultaneously and more easily.

[0125] The display control device 10 of Technology 9 according to this embodiment is the display control device 10 described in Technology 8. In this case, the display unit 30 includes a first display unit 31 and a second display unit 32 arranged vertically, and when the acquisition unit 11 is displaying first status information acquired by the acquisition unit 11 on the first display unit 31 and the second display unit 32 in a first display mode, the display control unit, when the acquisition unit 11 acquires a plurality of second status information and switches the display unit 30 to a second display mode, reduces the display image of the first status information and displays it on the first display unit 31, and displays at least some of the display images of the plurality of second status information on the second display unit 32.

[0126] According to this, by switching from the first display mode to the second display mode, the reduced first status information is displayed on the first display unit 31, and at least a portion of the multiple second status information is displayed on the second display unit 32, which is freed up by the reduction. As a result, the driver can grasp the first status information and at least a portion of the multiple second status information simultaneously and more easily.

[0127] The display control device 10 of this embodiment of Technology 10 is the display control device 10 described in Technology 9. In this case, when the display control unit causes the second display unit 32 to display display images of at least a portion of the plurality of second status information, it displays symbols indicating at least a portion of the plurality of second status information superimposed on the display image of the first status information displayed by the first display unit 31.

[0128] According to this, the driver can grasp at least some of the display images of the multiple second situation information displayed on the second display unit 32, and symbols that indicate at least some of the multiple second situation information together with the display image of the first situation information displayed on the first display unit 31. As a result, the driver can grasp the first situation information and at least some of the multiple second situation information simultaneously and more easily.

[0129] Furthermore, even if the driver is looking at either the first display unit 31 or the second display unit 32, at least some of the multiple second situation information items are displayed on both the first display unit 31 and the second display unit 32, making it easier for the driver to grasp the existence of at least some of the multiple second situation information items.

[0130] The display control device 10 of Technology 11 according to this embodiment is the display control device 10 described in Technology 9 or 10. In this case, when the location indicated by the second status information enters the display range of the first display unit 31, the display control unit causes the display image of the second status information corresponding to the location to move from the second display unit 32 to the first display unit 31.

[0131] According to this, the driver will be able to easily understand when the location indicated by the second situation information has entered the display range of the first display unit 31.

[0132] The display control device 10 of Technology 12 in this embodiment is the display control device 10 described in any one of Technologies 1 to 11. In this case, the display control unit changes the content image representing the vehicle 2 to be displayed on the display units 30 and 30a according to the steering angle of the vehicle 2.

[0133] According to this, the posture of the vehicle 2 displayed on the display units 30 and 30a changes according to the shape of the road being driven, making it easier for the driver to understand the status of the vehicle 2 being driven.

[0134] The display control device 10 of Technology 13 according to this embodiment is the display control device 10 described in any one of Technologies 1 to 12. In this case, the display control unit changes the first status information and the second status information to be displayed on the display units 30 and 30a according to the distance from the vehicle 2 to the point indicated by the second status information.

[0135] According to this, the driver will be able to easily recognize the changes in the first and second situation information displayed on the display units 30 and 30a as they approach the point indicated by the second situation information.

[0136] The in-vehicle display system 1 of Technology 14 according to this embodiment comprises a display control device 10 described in any one of Technologies 1 to 13, and display units 30, 30a.

[0137] This in-vehicle display system 1 also produces the same effects as described above.

[0138] The display control method of Technology 15 according to this embodiment includes an acquisition step of acquiring first status information indicating the current status of a moving vehicle 2 and second status information indicating the status of the destination of the vehicle 2; a first display mode of displaying the first status information acquired in the acquisition step on display units 30, 30a; and a display step of displaying the first status information and the second status information acquired in the acquisition step in association with each other on display units 30, 30a.

[0139] This display control method also produces the same effects as described above.

[0140] The program of Technology 16 according to this embodiment is a program for a computer to execute the display control method described in Technology 15.

[0141] This program also produces the same effects as described above.

[0142] (Other variations) The display control device and the like related to this disclosure have been described above based on the embodiments described above, but this disclosure is not limited to these embodiments. Various modifications to the embodiments that a person skilled in the art can conceive of may also be included in the scope of this disclosure, as long as they do not deviate from the spirit of this disclosure.

[0143] For example, as described above, the size of the display image for the first status information is changed when the system changes between a steady state and an attention state, but this is not the only example. For instance, when the system changes between a steady state and an attention state, it is not necessary to change the size of the display image for the first status information. In this case, the second status information may be displayed superimposed on the first status information.

[0144] Furthermore, the display control unit and other components included in the aforementioned display control device are typically implemented as LSIs (large-scale integrated circuits). These may be individually integrated into a single chip, or some or all of them may be integrated into a single chip.

[0145] Furthermore, integrated circuit implementation is not limited to LSIs; it may also be achieved using dedicated circuits or general-purpose processors. Field-Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs), which can be programmed after LSI manufacturing, or reconfigurable processors, which allow for the reconfiguration of the connections and settings of circuit cells within the LSI, may also be used.

[0146] In each of the above embodiments, each component may be implemented by dedicated hardware or by executing a software program suitable for each component. Each component may also be implemented by a program execution unit such as a CPU or processor reading and executing a software program recorded on a recording medium such as a hard disk or semiconductor memory.

[0147] Furthermore, all figures used above are illustrative to illustrate the present disclosure, and the embodiments of this disclosure are not limited to the figures exemplified.

[0148] Furthermore, the division of functional blocks in the block diagram is just one example; multiple functional blocks can be implemented as a single functional block, a single functional block can be divided into multiple parts, or some functions can be moved to other functional blocks. In addition, the functions of multiple functional blocks with similar functions can be processed in parallel or time-sharing by a single piece of hardware or software.

[0149] Furthermore, the order in which each step in the flowchart is performed is illustrative for the purpose of specifically illustrating this disclosure, and may be in a different order. Also, some of the above steps may be performed simultaneously (in parallel) with other steps.

[0150] Furthermore, this disclosure also includes forms obtained by applying various modifications to the above embodiments that a person skilled in the art could conceive, and forms realized by arbitrarily combining the components and functions of the embodiments without departing from the spirit of this disclosure. [Industrial applicability]

[0151] This disclosure is useful in mobile devices such as vehicles, ships, and aircraft equipped with display devices. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0152] 1. In-vehicle display system 2 vehicles 10 Display control device 11 Acquisition Department 12 Display determination unit (display control unit) 13 Image generation unit (display control unit) 30, 30a display section 31 1st display section 32 2nd display section

Claims

1. An acquisition unit that acquires first status information indicating the current status of a moving vehicle and second status information indicating the status of the destination of the vehicle, It comprises a display control unit that controls the display of the display unit, The display control unit switches between a first display mode in which the first status information acquired by the acquisition unit is displayed on the display unit, and a second display mode in which the first status information and the second status information acquired by the acquisition unit are displayed on the display unit in association with each other. Display control device.

2. In the second display mode, the second status information includes warning information and warning target information. The aforementioned cautionary information is information intended to notify the driver of the vehicle of any events that require attention that may exist in the vehicle's travel route. The aforementioned information to be cautioned is information intended to prompt the driver to operate the vehicle in accordance with the aforementioned caution information. The display control device according to claim 1.

3. When the display control unit is displaying the first status information acquired by the acquisition unit on the display unit in the first display mode, and the acquisition unit acquires second status information and switches the display unit to the second display mode, the display control unit reduces the size of the display image of the first status information and displays the first status information and the second status information in association on the display unit. The display control device according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The display unit includes a first display unit and a second display unit arranged vertically, When the acquisition unit is displaying the first status information acquired by the acquisition unit on the first display unit and the second display unit in the first display mode, the display control unit, when the acquisition unit acquires second status information and switches the display unit to the second display mode, reduces the size of the display image of the first status information and displays it on the first display unit, and displays the display image of the second status information on the second display unit. The display control device according to claim 3.

5. When the display control unit causes the second display unit to display the display image of the second status information, it causes the display control unit to superimpose a symbol indicating the second status information onto the display image of the first status information displayed by the first display unit. The display control device according to claim 4.

6. The display control unit causes the display image of the second status information to move from the second display unit to the first display unit when the location indicated by the second status information enters the display range of the first display unit. The display control device according to claim 4.

7. The acquisition unit acquires a plurality of the second status information, In the second display mode, the display control unit causes the display unit to display the first status information acquired by the acquisition unit in association with at least a portion of the plurality of second status information. The display control device according to claim 1 or 2.

8. When the acquisition unit is displaying the first status information acquired by the acquisition unit on the display unit in the first display mode, and the acquisition unit acquires the plurality of second status information and switches the display unit to the second display mode, the display control unit reduces the size of the display image of the first status information and displays the first status information and at least a portion of the plurality of second status information on the display unit in association. The display control device according to claim 7.

9. The display unit includes a first display unit and a second display unit arranged vertically, When the acquisition unit is displaying the first status information acquired by the acquisition unit on the first display unit and the second display unit in the first display mode, the display control unit, when the acquisition unit acquires a plurality of second status information and switches the display unit to the second display mode, reduces the size of the display image of the first status information and displays it on the first display unit, and displays at least a portion of the display images of the plurality of second status information on the second display unit. The display control device according to claim 8.

10. When the display control unit causes the second display unit to display images of at least a portion of the plurality of second status information, it superimposes symbols representing at least a portion of the plurality of second status information onto the display images of the first status information displayed by the first display unit. The display control device according to claim 9.

11. When the location indicated by the second status information enters the display range of the first display unit, the display control unit causes the display image of the second status information corresponding to that location to move from the second display unit to the first display unit. The display control device according to claim 9.

12. The display control unit changes the content image representing the vehicle displayed on the display unit according to the steering angle of the vehicle. The display control device according to claim 1 or 2.

13. The display control unit changes the first and second status information displayed on the display unit according to the distance from the vehicle to the point indicated by the second status information. The display control device according to claim 1 or 2.

14. A display control device according to claim 1 or 2, The display unit is included In-vehicle display system.

15. An acquisition step of acquiring first status information indicating the current status of a moving vehicle and second status information indicating the status of the destination of the vehicle, The first display mode includes displaying the first status information acquired in the acquisition step on the display unit, and the display step includes displaying the first status information and the second status information acquired in the acquisition step in association with each other on the display unit. Display control method.

16. For a computer to execute the display control method described in claim 15 program.

Images