Driving diagnostic system

Abstract

The objective is to provide a driving diagnostic system that is less affected by mileage and can maintain drivers' motivation for safe driving. [Solution] The driving diagnostic system 10 is a driving diagnostic system that performs driving diagnostics on a vehicle, and includes a driving time measurement unit 20 that measures driving time using a point deduction method that deducts points according to predetermined driving operations, and an evaluation point calculation unit 40 that calculates a driving evaluation score by dividing the number of points deducted by the point deduction method by the driving time.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a driving diagnosis system.

Background Art

[0002] As a conventional driving diagnosis technique, a safe driving evaluation device described in Patent Document 1 below is known. This safe driving evaluation device performs evaluation using a point deduction method when a violation behavior such as ignoring a temporary stop is detected.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, in such conventional driving diagnosis techniques, driving diagnosis is simply performed according to driving operations, and a driver with a long travel distance has a large number of driving operations. Therefore, in the conventional driving diagnosis techniques, the score tends to be low for such a driver, while a driver with a short travel distance has a small number of driving operations and tends to get a high score. Even at the same driving level, there is a risk that accurate driving ability diagnosis cannot be performed due to the difference in travel distance. In addition, since points are only deducted each time a driving operation is performed, there is a possibility that the driver's motivation for safe driving is reduced.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a driving diagnosis system that realizes driving diagnosis less susceptible to the influence of travel distance and can maintain the driver's motivation for safe driving.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] (1) The driving diagnostic system of the present invention is a driving diagnostic system for performing driving diagnostics of a vehicle, and is characterized by comprising: a driving time measuring means for measuring driving time using a point deduction method that deducts points according to predetermined driving operations; and an evaluation point calculation means for calculating a driving evaluation score by dividing the number of points deducted calculated by the point deduction method by the driving time.

[0007] As described in (1) above, the driving diagnostic system of the present invention can eliminate bias in evaluation due to the length of driving distance by dividing the number of penalty points by the driving time measured by the driving time measuring means. Furthermore, since the impact of penalty points diminishes as the driving time increases, the driving diagnostic system of the present invention can maintain the driver's motivation for safe driving.

[0008] (2) In the driving diagnostic system of the present invention described above, the driving time measuring means may measure the period during which the vehicle speed is equal to or greater than a first predetermined speed as the driving time.

[0009] As described in (2) above, the driving diagnostic system of the present invention can exclude from evaluation driving operations until a speed is reached at which stable driving can be determined to have started, by measuring the period at or above a first predetermined speed as the driving time.

[0010] (3) In the driving diagnostic system of the present invention described above, the driving time measuring means starts measuring the driving time when the vehicle speed exceeds the first predetermined speed after the vehicle's power is turned on, and stops measuring the driving time when the vehicle speed falls below the second predetermined speed.

[0011] As described in (3) above, the driving diagnostic system of the present invention can exclude from evaluation driving operations from the point of exiting a residential area onto a public road, and driving operations during intermittent starts and stops in traffic congestion, by setting measurement start conditions and stop conditions.

[0012] (4) The driving diagnostic system of the present invention described above is preferably configured such that the driving time measuring means resumes measuring the driving time when the vehicle speed exceeds a third predetermined speed after the measurement of the driving time has stopped.

[0013] The driving diagnostic system of the present invention can appropriately include driving operations when returning to normal driving after a temporary low-speed driving as part of the evaluation by setting measurement restart conditions as described in (4) above.

[0014] (5) The driving diagnostic system of the present invention described above is preferably such that the second predetermined speed is lower than the first predetermined speed, and the third predetermined speed is higher than the second predetermined speed and lower than the first predetermined speed.

[0015] The driving diagnostic system of the present invention can start, stop, and restart measurements at appropriate timings by setting the relative magnitudes of each speed as described in (5) above. In particular, the driving diagnostic system of the present invention can prevent frequent switching between starting and stopping measurements by setting the third predetermined speed higher than the second predetermined speed.

[0016] (6) In the driving diagnostic system of the present invention described above, the evaluation score calculation means may calculate the driving evaluation score for each predetermined distance traveled during the measurement of the driving time.

[0017] The driving diagnostic system of the present invention can provide real-time feedback of the driving evaluation results to the driver by calculating driving evaluation points at predetermined distance intervals as described in (6) above. As a result, the driving diagnostic system of the present invention can help maintain a high level of awareness of safe driving among drivers.

[0018] Furthermore, the configurations described in (1) to (6) above can be combined in any way. In particular, by combining the configurations related to driving time measurement described in (2) to (5), a more accurate driving evaluation can be achieved. [Effects of the Invention]

[0019] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a driving diagnosis system that realizes driving diagnosis less susceptible to the influence of travel distance and can maintain the driver's motivation for safe driving. [Brief Description of the Drawings]

[0020] [Figure 1] This is a block diagram showing the configuration of a driving diagnosis system according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] This is a block diagram showing the configuration of a travel time measurement unit. [Figure 3] This is a block diagram showing the configuration of a driving operation detection unit. [Figure 4] This is a block diagram showing the configuration of an evaluation score calculation unit. [Figure 5] This is a block diagram showing the configuration of a data management unit. [Figure 6] This is a flowchart showing the operation of the driving diagnosis system according to Figure 1. [Modes for Carrying Out the Invention]

[0021] Hereinafter, the driving diagnosis system 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In the following description, the basic configuration of the driving diagnosis system 10 will first be described, and then the configuration and operation of each characteristic unit will be described in detail later.

[0022] ≪Basic Configuration≫ As shown in Figure 1, the driving diagnosis system 10 according to the present embodiment is a system that diagnoses the driving operation of a vehicle and calculates a driving evaluation score. The driving diagnosis system 10 includes a travel time measurement unit 20, a driving operation detection unit 30, an evaluation score calculation unit 40, and a data management unit 50.

[0023] The driving time measurement unit 20 measures the driving time of the vehicle. As shown in Figure 2, the driving time measurement unit 20 includes a vehicle speed sensor 22 and a measurement control unit 24. The vehicle speed sensor 22 detects the vehicle's speed. The measurement control unit 24 controls the measurement of driving time based on the detection signal from the vehicle speed sensor 22.

[0024] As shown in Figure 3, the driving operation detection unit 30 detects the driver's driving operations. The driving operation detection unit 30 can be any suitable device that can detect driving operations, but for example, the driving operation detection unit 30 can be equipped with a vehicle information acquisition unit 32, a location information acquisition unit 34, and a driver monitor 36. Alternatively, the driving operation detection unit 30 can utilize a navigation device 38.

[0025] The vehicle information acquisition unit 32 acquires vehicle speed information, acceleration information, steering operation information, shift position information, and collision avoidance brake operation information. This allows for the detection of driving operations such as sudden acceleration, sudden deceleration, sudden steering, and failure to stop.

[0026] The location information acquisition unit 34 acquires the vehicle's current location and the road type determination unit 34a determines the road type. The driver monitor 36 acquires the driver's gaze information and the left / right check detection unit 36a detects the driver checking left and right. The navigation device 38 can detect entry into an intersection and approach to a stop sign.

[0027] As shown in Figure 4, the evaluation score calculation unit 40 calculates a penalty score based on the driving operations detected by the driving operation detection unit 30, and calculates the driving evaluation score by dividing this penalty score by the driving time measured by the driving time measurement unit 20. As will be described in detail later, the evaluation score calculation unit 40 includes a penalty processing unit 42, an evaluation score calculation unit 44, and a threshold setting unit 46.

[0028] As shown in Figure 5, the data management unit 50 records and manages the driving evaluation scores calculated by the evaluation score calculation unit 40. The data management unit 50 includes a storage unit 52 and an external communication unit 54. The storage unit 52 aggregates the driving evaluation scores on a monthly basis and stores them as historical information showing the driver's driving tendencies. The external communication unit 54 transmits the driving evaluation scores to an external server 54a, allowing users to check the driving evaluation scores via an application 54b installed on a device such as a smartphone or personal computer, or via a browser.

[0029] With the above configuration, the driving diagnostic system 10 can calculate a driving evaluation score based on driving time and provide it to the driver. As a result, fair driving diagnostics can be achieved regardless of the length of driving distance or the type of road.

[0030] ≪Regarding the running time measurement unit 20≫ Next, the driving time measurement unit 20 will be described in detail. The driving time measurement unit 20 measures the driving time after the vehicle's power is turned on, and this driving time measurement is controlled according to predetermined conditions described below.

[0031] The measurement control unit 24 starts measuring the driving time when the vehicle speed detected by the vehicle speed sensor 22 exceeds a first speed (20 kilometers per hour in this embodiment). This first speed is the speed at which stable driving is possible on normal public roads. By starting the measurement after the vehicle speed exceeds the first speed, driving operations such as starting from a residential area onto a public road or starting on an incline can be excluded from the evaluation.

[0032] The measurement control unit 24 stops measuring the driving time when the vehicle speed falls below a second speed (8 kilometers per hour in this embodiment). This second speed corresponds to a low-speed driving state where the idle stop function is activated. By stopping the measurement when the vehicle speed falls below this second speed, driving operations during intermittent starts and stops in traffic jams can be excluded from the evaluation.

[0033] The measurement control unit 24 resumes measuring the driving time after stopping the measurement, when the vehicle speed exceeds a third speed (10 kilometers per hour in this embodiment). This third speed is faster than the second speed but slower than the first speed. By setting the third speed higher than the second speed, it is possible to prevent frequent switching of the start and stop of measurement when the vehicle speed repeatedly increases and decreases around the second speed.

[0034] By controlling the measurement of driving time as described above, the driving time measurement unit 20 can measure only the driving time under driving conditions suitable for driving evaluation. As a result, driving operations that were not intended by the driver or caused by road conditions can be excluded from the evaluation, enabling a fairer driving diagnosis.

[0035] ≪Regarding the operation detection unit 30≫ Next, the driving operation detection unit 30 will be described in detail. The driving operation detection unit 30 detects the driver's driving operations from multiple angles using the vehicle information acquisition unit 32, the location information acquisition unit 34, the driver monitor 36, and the navigation device 38.

[0036] The vehicle information acquisition unit 32 acquires information related to driving operations from various sensors mounted on the vehicle. The vehicle information acquisition unit 32 is equipped with a front-rear acceleration sensor 32a and a left-right acceleration sensor 32b, which can detect sudden acceleration, sudden deceleration, and sudden steering. In addition, the vehicle information acquisition unit 32 acquires vehicle speed information from the vehicle speed sensor 22 to detect exceeding the speed limit and detects shift operations from the shift position sensor 32c. Furthermore, the vehicle information acquisition unit 32 acquires operation information from the collision avoidance system 32d to detect approaching vehicles ahead.

[0037] The location information acquisition unit 34 acquires the vehicle's current location using the GPS receiver 34b. The road type determination unit 34a determines the type of road the vehicle is traveling on by comparing the acquired location information with the map database 34c. The road type determination unit 34a can distinguish and determine between prefectural roads, residential areas, national roads, and expressways.

[0038] The driver monitor 36 captures the driver's face using a camera 36b installed inside the vehicle. The left / right check detection unit 36a detects whether the driver checks left and right at intersections and stop points based on the gaze information acquired by the camera 36b.

[0039] The navigation device 38 includes an intersection detection unit 38a that detects intersections and stop points based on location information from the location information acquisition unit 34 and the map database 34c. The intersection detection unit 38a can determine whether deceleration or stopping is required when approaching these points. The navigation device 38 can also display navigation information on a display unit 38b, which consists of a liquid crystal display (LCD) or the like. The display unit 38b can be, for example, a center information display (CID) located near the center of the instrument panel.

[0040] By detecting driving operations from multiple angles as described above, the driving operation detection unit 30 can accurately grasp the driver's driving characteristics. As a result, the degree of safe driving by the driver can be appropriately evaluated, which can be useful for the driver to understand and improve their own driving tendencies.

[0041] ≪Regarding the evaluation score calculation unit 40≫ Next, the evaluation score calculation unit 40 will be described in detail. The evaluation score calculation unit 40 uses a deduction processing unit 42 and an evaluation score calculation unit 44 to calculate the driving evaluation score based on the detection results from the driving operation detection unit 30. The evaluation score calculation unit 40 also includes a threshold setting unit 46, which allows for the setting of thresholds that serve as evaluation criteria.

[0042] The penalty processing unit 42 executes penalty processing for driving operations detected by the driving operation detection unit 30. The penalty processing unit 42 includes a penalty table 42a set for each type of driving operation. The penalty table 42a specifies penalty amounts such as 2 points for sudden acceleration, 3 points for sudden deceleration, 3 points for sudden steering, 5 points for failing to stop at a stop sign, 2 points for exceeding the speed limit, 3 points for lane departure, 2 points for approaching a vehicle in front, and 2 points for not checking left and right.

[0043] The evaluation score calculation unit 44 calculates the driving evaluation score by dividing the number of deductions calculated by the deduction processing unit 42 by the driving time measured by the driving time measurement unit 20. The evaluation score calculation unit 44 sets the initial value to 100 points and calculates the driving evaluation score by subtracting the number of deductions obtained by dividing this initial value by the driving time. This driving evaluation score is updated every 3 kilometers while the driving time measurement unit 20 is measuring.

[0044] The threshold setting unit 46 sets thresholds that serve as evaluation criteria for driving evaluation scores. The threshold setting unit 46 can set the thresholds variably according to the driver's attributes. The threshold setting unit 46 includes a driver attribute table 46a, which records attribute information such as the driver's age and years of driving experience. For example, the threshold setting unit 46 can set the evaluation threshold higher than usual for elderly drivers.

[0045] The evaluation score calculation unit 44 can also change the number of deductions in the deduction table 42a based on the attribute information recorded in the driver attribute table 46a. For example, the number of deductions can be set higher for younger drivers and lower for experienced drivers.

[0046] As described above, by calculating the driving evaluation score based on the number of deductions and driving time, the evaluation score calculation unit 40 can achieve a driving evaluation that is less affected by driving distance and road conditions. Furthermore, by adjusting the evaluation criteria according to the driver's attributes, it is possible to effectively elicit the driver's motivation for safe driving.

[0047] ≪About Data Management Department 50≫ Next, the data management unit 50 will be described in detail. The data management unit 50 uses the storage unit 52 and the external communication unit 54 to record the driving evaluation score calculated by the evaluation score calculation unit 40 and provide it to the driver.

[0048] The memory unit 52 aggregates and stores the driving evaluation scores. The memory unit 52 includes a monthly database 52a and an annual database 52b. The monthly database 52a records the driving evaluation scores for each day. If there are multiple driving operations in a single day, the average value is recorded in the monthly database 52a. The annual database 52b records the progression of driving evaluation scores from January to December and can store data for a predetermined number of years (for example, up to 120 months (10 years)).

[0049] The external communication unit 54 transmits the driving evaluation scores stored in the memory unit 52 to the external server 54a. The driving evaluation scores transmitted to the external server 54a can be provided to the driver via an application 54b installed on a device such as a smartphone or personal computer owned by the user, or via a browser. The application 54b, etc., can display the driving evaluation scores in an appropriate display format, such as a monthly graph or an annual graph.

[0050] The display generation unit 56 generates display information showing the trend of the driving evaluation score, and it is preferable that the display information be generated in a form such as a graph that is easy to understand visually. The display generation unit 56 comprises a monthly display generation unit 56a and an annual display generation unit 56b. The monthly display generation unit 56a generates display information such as a graph showing the daily changes in the driving evaluation score over a month. The annual display generation unit 56b generates display information such as a graph showing the long-term trend of the driving evaluation score. The display information generated by the display generation unit 56 can be transmitted to a device owned by the user via the external communication unit 54 as described above and displayed, or displayed on a display unit 38b such as a center information display (CID) installed in the vehicle.

[0051] The driving tendency analysis unit 58 analyzes the driver's driving tendencies based on the history of driving evaluation scores recorded in the memory unit 52. The driving tendency analysis unit 58 includes a capability determination unit 58a that determines changes in driving ability over time. The capability determination unit 58a can notify the driver if the driving evaluation score is showing a downward trend over time.

[0052] By managing the data as described above, the data management unit 50 can support drivers in understanding their own driving tendencies. In particular, by recording and analyzing the long-term trends in driving evaluation scores, changes in the driving abilities of elderly drivers can be detected early, which can be used to maintain safe driving and to make decisions about continuing to drive.

[0053] ≪Regarding the operation of the driving diagnostic system 10≫ Next, the operation of the driving diagnostic system 10 will be explained based on the flowchart in Figure 6.

[0054] (Step S1) In step S1, the driving time measurement unit 20 is in standby mode with driving time measurement stopped. This state is the initial state immediately after the vehicle's power is turned on.

[0055] (Step S2) In step S2, the measurement control unit 24 determines whether the vehicle speed detected by the vehicle speed sensor 22 is 20 kilometers per hour or more, which is a first predetermined speed. If the vehicle speed is 20 kilometers per hour or more, the process proceeds to step S3; otherwise, it returns to step S1.

[0056] (Step S3) In step S3, the travel time measurement unit 20 starts measuring the travel time. The control flow then proceeds to step S4.

[0057] (Step S4) When the control flow proceeds to step S4, it is checked whether the distance traveled has reached 3·n kilometers (n = a natural number greater than or equal to 1). If the distance traveled has reached 3·n kilometers, the control flow proceeds to step S5; otherwise, the control flow proceeds to step S6.

[0058] (Step S5) In step S5, the evaluation score calculation unit 40 calculates the final driving evaluation score by dividing the number of deductions by the driving time. The calculation result is converted into display information by the display generation unit 56 and transmitted to a display unit 38b such as a center information display (CID) or a device owned by the user for display. The control flow then proceeds to step S6.

[0059] (Step S6) In step S6, the measurement control unit 24 determines whether the vehicle speed is 8 kilometers per hour or less, which is a second predetermined speed. If the vehicle speed is 8 kilometers per hour or less, the process proceeds to step S7; if it exceeds 8 kilometers per hour, the driving time measurement in step S3 is continued.

[0060] (Step S7) In step S7, the travel time measurement unit 20 stops measuring the travel time. The control flow then proceeds to step S8.

[0061] (Step S8) In step S8, the measurement control unit 24 determines whether the shift position is the parking position. If the shift position is the parking position, the process proceeds to step S9; otherwise, the process proceeds to step S10.

[0062] (Step S9) In step S9, the evaluation score calculation unit 40 calculates the final driving evaluation score by dividing the number of deductions by the driving time, and then terminates the process.

[0063] (Step S10) In step S10, the measurement control unit 24 determines whether the vehicle speed is 10 kilometers per hour or more, which is a third predetermined speed. If the vehicle speed is 10 kilometers per hour or more, the unit returns to step S3 and resumes measuring the driving time; otherwise, the unit returns to step S8.

[0064] Through the above series of steps, the driving diagnostic system 10 can start, stop, and restart the measurement of driving time at appropriate times, and calculate a driving evaluation score based on this driving time.

[0065] ≪Regarding the detection and evaluation process of driving operations while the vehicle is in motion≫ Next, we will explain the process of detecting and evaluating driving operations while the vehicle is in motion.

[0066] During the measurement of driving time (step S3), the driving operation detection unit 30 continuously detects driving operations using the vehicle information acquisition unit 32, the position information acquisition unit 34, the driver monitor 36, and the navigation device 38. The vehicle information acquisition unit 32 detects sudden acceleration, sudden deceleration, and sudden steering using the front and rear acceleration sensors 32a and the left and right acceleration sensors 32b. It also detects exceeding the speed limit based on information from the vehicle speed sensor 22 and detects approaching vehicles ahead based on information from the collision avoidance system 32d.

[0067] The driver monitor 36 detects whether or not a left / right check operation is performed based on gaze information acquired by the camera 36b, using the left / right check detection unit 36a. In addition, the intersection detection unit 38a of the navigation device 38 detects driving operations at intersections and stop points based on information from the location information acquisition unit 34.

[0068] The evaluation score calculation unit 40 updates the driving evaluation score every 3 kilometers. The evaluation score calculation unit 44 calculates the driving evaluation score by dividing the cumulative number of deductions calculated by the deduction processing unit 42 up to that point by the driving time measured by the driving time measurement unit 20, and subtracting this value from the initial value of 100 points.

[0069] Regarding the recording and analysis of driving performance evaluation scores: Next, we will explain the recording and analysis process of driving evaluation scores.

[0070] The data management unit 50 transmits the driving evaluation score calculated by the evaluation score calculation unit 40 to applications 54b and other devices in real time via the external communication unit 54, or displays it on a display unit 38b such as a center information display (CID) installed in the vehicle. This allows the driver to check the driving evaluation score, which is updated every 3 kilometers, even while driving.

[0071] At the end of operation (step S9), the data management unit 50 records the final operation evaluation score in the monthly database 52a of the storage unit 52. If there are multiple operations in a day, the average value of those operations is recorded. The monthly display generation unit 56a generates display information such as graphs showing the monthly trend based on the operation evaluation score recorded in the monthly database 52a. In addition, the annual display generation unit 56b generates display information such as graphs showing the trend for up to 120 months based on the operation evaluation score recorded in the annual database 52b.

[0072] The ability assessment unit 58a of the driving tendency analysis unit 58 analyzes changes in driving ability over time based on the generated graphs and other displays. If the driving evaluation score shows a continuous downward trend, the driver is notified accordingly. This allows the driver to objectively understand the changes in their own driving ability and use this information to maintain safe driving and make decisions about continuing to drive.

[0073] ≪Regarding evaluation processing for each type of road≫ Next, we will explain the detailed operation of the evaluation process for each type of road.

[0074] When driving on public roads, the driving diagnostic system 10 determines that it is a public road using the location information acquisition unit 34 and the road type determination unit 34a. When driving on public roads, there are many intersections and stop signs, so the driver monitor 36 frequently detects left and right checks and the intersection detection unit 38a frequently detects stop signs. In addition, compliance with the speed limit and the distance to the vehicle in front are also evaluated with particular emphasis.

[0075] When driving on a highway, the driving diagnostic system 10 determines that it is a highway using the location information acquisition unit 34 and the road type determination unit 34a. When driving on a highway, the system focuses on detecting lane departure and detecting the degree of proximity to the vehicle ahead. Driving operations during merging and lane changes are also evaluated.

[0076] When driving in a residential area, the driving diagnostic system 10 determines that it is a residential area using the location information acquisition unit 34 and the road type determination unit 34a. In residential areas, driving operations until the vehicle speed exceeds a first predetermined speed of 20 kilometers per hour are excluded from evaluation. As a result, sudden acceleration when starting from a residential area to a public road, and sudden starts when starting on an incline are excluded from evaluation.

[0077] ≪Regarding evaluation processing for each type of road≫ Next, we will explain the detailed operation of the evaluation process in special circumstances.

[0078] During traffic congestion, the driving diagnostic system 10 stops measuring driving time when the vehicle speed falls below a second predetermined speed of 8 kilometers per hour. Measurement resumes when the vehicle speed exceeds a third predetermined speed of 10 kilometers per hour. This control system excludes intermittent starts and stops and driving maneuvers during low-speed driving in traffic congestion from the evaluation.

[0079] The same control is performed even during short stops, such as waiting at traffic lights. However, if the shift position is switched to the parking position, the driving diagnostic system 10 calculates the final driving evaluation score at that point.

[0080] Regarding the update of evaluation values: Next, we will explain the detailed operation related to updating evaluation values.

[0081] The driving diagnostic system 10 updates the driving evaluation score every 3 kilometers. When updating, it divides the total number of penalty points for that section by the driving time. This division means that the longer the driving time, the smaller the impact of a single penalty point on the driving evaluation score. For example, if there are four penalty points in the first 5 minutes, the driving evaluation score will be higher if there is one penalty point in the next 7 minutes than if there are four penalty points in the first 5 minutes.

[0082] For monthly data updates, if there are multiple drives in a single day, the average value is recorded. For annual data updates, the trend of driving performance scores for each month is recorded, and data for up to 120 months is retained. Based on this long-term data, changes in driving ability over time are analyzed.

[0083] Through the detailed operations described above, the driving diagnostic system 10 can provide appropriate evaluations according to road conditions and driving situations. Furthermore, by devising a method for updating evaluation values, it is possible to maintain the driver's motivation for safe driving.

[0084] ≪Regarding the display of evaluation results≫ Next, we will explain how the evaluation results from the driving diagnostic system 10 are displayed.

[0085] The driving diagnostic system 10 displays the evaluation results during driving in real time. Application 54b displays the driving evaluation score, which starts at an initial value of 100 points and is updated every 3 kilometers. This display allows the driver to check their driving tendencies in real time.

[0086] The monthly display generation unit 56a generates display information such as graphs showing the trend of driving evaluation scores for one month. In this display, driving evaluation scores from the 1st to the 31st are shown in chronological order. If there are multiple drives in a day, the average value is displayed. The monthly graph display allows drivers to visually grasp the changes in their daily driving evaluations.

[0087] The annual display generation unit 56b generates display information such as graphs showing the trend of driving evaluation scores from January to December. This display can show data for up to 120 months, allowing drivers to check the trend of their driving evaluations for up to 10 years. The annual graph shows changes in long-term driving trends by plotting the average value for each month.

[0088] The driving diagnostic system 10 also displays the analysis results from the driving tendency analysis unit 58. The ability judgment unit 58a displays a warning if the driving evaluation score shows a continuous downward trend. This warning display includes specific types of driving operations that may indicate a decline in driving ability. This allows the driver to specifically identify driving operations that require attention.

[0089] With the display functions described above, the driving diagnostic system 10 can present the results of the driving evaluation to the driver in an easy-to-understand manner. In particular, real-time display enhances safety awareness while driving, and monthly and yearly graphs allow drivers to grasp long-term driving trends. As a result, it is possible to effectively improve the driver's awareness of safe driving.

[0090] Next, we will explain the fairness of the evaluation by the driving diagnostic system 10.

[0091] The driving diagnostic system 10 calculates driving evaluation points based on driving time, thereby achieving an evaluation that is less affected by driving distance. In conventional driving diagnostic systems, drivers who drive long distances tend to have more driving operations and therefore more opportunities to have points deducted, while drivers who drive short distances tend to have fewer driving operations and therefore fewer opportunities to have points deducted. In contrast, the driving diagnostic system 10 eliminates the bias in evaluation due to the length of driving distance by dividing the number of deductions by the driving time.

[0092] The driving diagnostic system 10 also mitigates the influence of road type. Ordinary roads have many intersections and stop points, resulting in a high number of driving operations, while highways offer monotonous driving with fewer driving operations. By performing evaluations based on driving time, the driving diagnostic system 10 achieves an evaluation that reflects the fact that even for the same distance, driving time will be longer on roads with many driving operations, such as ordinary roads, and shorter on roads with few driving operations, such as highways.

[0093] The driving diagnostic system 10 also ensures fairness in the evaluation at the start of driving. There is a high probability of unintended sudden acceleration or braking occurring when moving from a residential area onto a public road or when starting on an incline. The driving diagnostic system 10 excludes driving operations in this section from evaluation by not starting to measure driving time until the vehicle speed exceeds a first predetermined speed of 20 kilometers per hour. As a result, it is possible to prevent the evaluation from being influenced by differences in residential environments or road conditions.

[0094] The driving diagnostic system 10 also ensures fairness in evaluation during traffic congestion. During traffic congestion, intermittent starts and stops are frequent, making it easy for unintended sudden acceleration and braking to occur. The driving diagnostic system 10 stops measuring driving time when the vehicle speed falls below a second predetermined speed of 8 kilometers per hour, and resumes measurement when it exceeds a third predetermined speed of 10 kilometers per hour, thereby excluding driving operations during traffic congestion from the evaluation. As a result, it is possible to prevent the presence or absence of traffic congestion from influencing the evaluation.

[0095] As described above, the driving diagnostic system 10 can achieve a fair evaluation that is less affected by factors such as distance traveled, road type, driving conditions at the start of driving, and traffic congestion. As a result, it can appropriately evaluate the driver's true driving ability.

[0096] Next, we will explain the effects of the driving diagnostic system 10 on the driver.

[0097] The driving diagnostic system 10 can effectively maintain the driver's motivation for safe driving. Conventional driving diagnostic systems only deducted points according to driving operations, which tended to discourage drivers. In contrast, the driving diagnostic system 10 divides the number of deducted points by the driving time, so the impact of the deductions diminishes as safe driving continues, giving the driver the feeling that they are gaining points.

[0098] The driving diagnostic system 10 can maintain a high level of awareness of safe driving among drivers by updating and displaying driving evaluation scores every 3 kilometers. Drivers can check their driving evaluation scores in real time while driving and improve their driving operations based on the evaluation results. As a result, the driver's awareness of safe driving can be continuously enhanced.

[0099] The driving diagnostic system 10 can adjust the evaluation criteria according to the driver's attributes. The number of penalty points in the penalty point table 42a and the threshold values ​​in the threshold setting unit 46 can be changed according to the driver's age and years of driving experience. This makes it possible to set appropriate evaluation criteria according to each driver's driving ability and effectively encourage drivers to drive safely.

[0100] The driving diagnostic system 10 can provide an opportunity to understand long-term changes in driving ability. For elderly drivers in particular, being able to review the trend of their driving performance scores over up to 10 years is an effective way to objectively understand changes in their own driving ability. If the driving performance score shows a continuous downward trend, the driving diagnostic system 10 will notify the driver, allowing them to use this information as a reference when deciding whether or not to surrender their license.

[0101] As described above, the driving diagnostic system 10 can support the driver in improving their driving ability and making appropriate decisions about continuing to drive, while maintaining the driver's motivation for safe driving. As a result, it can contribute to the driver's safe and comfortable driving.

[0102] Next, we will explain the long-term effects of the driving diagnostic system 10.

[0103] The driving diagnostic system 10 can visualize the driver's driving tendencies over the long term by recording driving evaluation scores in monthly database 52a and annual database 52b. Through the display of monthly and annual graphs, drivers can visually grasp their driving tendencies over various periods, from daily changes in driving evaluation scores to trends over up to 10 years.

[0104] The driving diagnostic system 10 can provide a means to objectively grasp the changes in an elderly driver's driving ability over time. The driving trend analysis unit 58 can detect a declining trend in driving ability by analyzing the changes in driving evaluation scores recorded in the annual database 52b. If a decline in driving ability is detected, the driving diagnostic system 10 can notify not only the driver but also their family. This allows elderly drivers and their families to make decisions about whether or not they can continue driving based on objective data.

[0105] The driving diagnostic system 10 can record the evolution of a driver's driving skills over their lifetime by long-term storage of driving evaluation scores via an external server 54a. This long-term data can be used not only to analyze changes in an individual driver's driving ability, but also for broader analyses such as differences in driving trends by age group and region. As a result, it can contribute to improving driving support and safety education for elderly drivers.

[0106] As described above, the driving diagnostic system 10 can contribute not only to maintaining safe driving practices by individual drivers but also to improving traffic safety for society as a whole, through the long-term recording and analysis of driving evaluation scores.

[0107] Regarding variations: Although embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and includes various modifications as described below.

[0108] The evaluation score calculation unit 40 allows for changes to the method of calculating the driving evaluation score. For example, different initial values ​​can be set for each road type determined by the road type determination unit 34a, or different deduction tables 42a can be used for each road type. Furthermore, based on the driver's driving history, evaluations can be made that place more emphasis on driving operations on roads that are frequently driven.

[0109] The driving time measurement unit 20 can change the values ​​of the first to third predetermined speeds. For example, these speed values ​​can be changed according to the type of vehicle and road conditions. Furthermore, these speed values ​​can be made variable depending on the season and time of day. This allows for evaluations that correspond to situations requiring more careful driving, such as driving during snowfall or at night.

[0110] The driving operation detection unit 30 can be configured to include additional types of driving operations for detection. For example, it can be configured to work in conjunction with advanced driver assistance systems installed in the vehicle, adding operational information from systems such as lane departure warning systems and blind spot monitors to the evaluation criteria. Furthermore, the functions of the driver monitor 36 can be expanded to include driver fatigue and alertness levels as evaluation criteria.

[0111] The data management unit 50 allows for changes to how driving performance scores are displayed. For example, in application 54b, a driver's performance score can be displayed in comparison to the average score for their age group, or in comparison to the driver's highest performance score in the past. Furthermore, a function can be added to allow users to share driving performance scores with family and friends, encouraging each other to drive safely.

[0112] The driving diagnostic system 10 can be used in driving schools and driver's license renewal courses. By analyzing the driving evaluation scores of students and course participants, effective instruction can be provided tailored to the individual characteristics of each driver. Furthermore, the data obtained from the driving diagnostic system 10 can be used to research safer driving methods and improve the training curriculum.

[0113] The modifications described above can be implemented in appropriate combinations. Furthermore, various modifications can be made to the above embodiments and modifications as conceived by those skilled in the art, without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

[0114] <Effects> The driving diagnostic system 10 described above has the following characteristic configurations (a) to (f). Therefore, the driving diagnostic system 10 of this embodiment can achieve the following unique effects that cannot be achieved with conventional technology.

[0115] (a) The driving diagnostic system 10 of this embodiment is a driving diagnostic system for performing driving diagnostics of a vehicle, and includes a driving time measurement unit 20 that measures driving time using a point deduction method that deducts points according to predetermined driving operations, and an evaluation point calculation unit 40 that calculates a driving evaluation score by dividing the number of points deducted by the point deduction method by the driving time.

[0116] As described in (a) above, the driving diagnostic system 10 of this embodiment can eliminate bias in evaluation due to the length of driving distance by dividing the number of penalty points by the driving time measured by the driving time measurement unit 20. Furthermore, as the impact of penalty points diminishes as the driving time increases, it is possible to maintain the driver's motivation for safe driving.

[0117] (b) In this embodiment, the driving diagnostic system 10 has a driving time measurement unit 20 that measures the period during which the vehicle speed is equal to or greater than a first predetermined speed as the driving time.

[0118] As described in (b) above, the driving diagnostic system 10 of this embodiment can exclude from evaluation driving operations until a speed is reached at which stable driving can be determined to have started, by measuring the period at or above the first predetermined speed as the driving time.

[0119] The driving diagnostic system 10 of this embodiment has the configuration described in (b) above, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The driving diagnostic system 10 can also measure the entire period from the start of driving as driving time, for example. In this case, the advantage of a simplified system configuration can be obtained.

[0120] (c) In the driving diagnostic system 10 of this embodiment, the driving time measurement unit 20 starts measuring the driving time when the vehicle speed exceeds a first predetermined speed after the vehicle's power is turned on, and stops measuring the driving time when the vehicle speed falls below a second predetermined speed.

[0121] As described in (c) above, the driving diagnostic system 10 of this embodiment can exclude from evaluation driving operations from the point of exiting a residential area onto a public road, as well as driving operations during intermittent starts and stops in traffic congestion, by setting measurement start conditions and stop conditions.

[0122] The driving diagnostic system 10 of this embodiment has the configuration described in (c) above, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The driving diagnostic system 10 can also be configured such that the driver manually instructs the start and stop of the measurement. In this case, it becomes possible to set evaluation intervals that reflect the driver's intentions.

[0123] (d) In the driving diagnostic system 10 of this embodiment, the driving time measurement unit 20 resumes measuring the driving time when the vehicle speed exceeds a third predetermined speed after the measurement of the driving time has stopped.

[0124] The driving diagnostic system 10 of this embodiment can appropriately include driving operations when returning to normal driving after temporary low-speed driving in the evaluation target by setting the measurement restart conditions as described in (d) above.

[0125] The operational diagnostic system 10 of this embodiment has the configuration described in (d) above, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The operational diagnostic system 10 can also be configured such that, for example, measurement is not resumed after measurement has stopped until the end of operation. In this case, system control is further simplified.

[0126] (e) In the driving diagnostic system 10 of this embodiment, the second predetermined speed is lower than the first predetermined speed, and the third predetermined speed is higher than the second predetermined speed and lower than the first predetermined speed.

[0127] The driving diagnostic system 10 of this embodiment can start, stop, and restart measurements at appropriate timings by setting the relative magnitudes of each speed as described in (e) above. In particular, by setting the third predetermined speed higher than the second predetermined speed, it is possible to prevent frequent switching between starting and stopping measurements.

[0128] The driving diagnostic system 10 of this embodiment has the configuration described in (e) above, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the first to third predetermined speeds can be set to the same value. In this case, there is the advantage that the number of control parameters is reduced and the system can be easily adjusted.

[0129] (f) In the driving diagnostic system 10 of this embodiment, the evaluation score calculation unit 40 calculates a driving evaluation score for each predetermined distance traveled while measuring the driving time.

[0130] The driving diagnostic system 10 of this embodiment can provide real-time feedback to the driver on the results of the driving evaluation by calculating driving evaluation points at predetermined distance intervals as described in (f) above. This helps to maintain a high level of awareness of safe driving among drivers.

[0131] The operation diagnostic system 10 of this embodiment has the configuration described in (f) above, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The operation diagnostic system 10 can also be configured to calculate the operation evaluation score all at once at the end of operation. In this case, the processing load can be reduced.

[0132] As described above, the driving diagnostic system 10 of this embodiment can achieve unprecedented and superior effects. Furthermore, the configurations described in (a) to (f) above can be combined in any way, and in particular, by combining them with the configurations related to driving time measurement described in (b) to (e), a more accurate driving evaluation can be achieved.

[0133] The present invention is not limited to the configurations described in the embodiments, etc. above, and can be modified as appropriate without departing from the scope of the technical idea of ​​the present invention. The components of each embodiment and modification described above can be arbitrarily selected and combined. Furthermore, any component of each embodiment and modification can be arbitrarily combined with any component described in the means for solving the problem, the form for carrying out the invention, etc., or a component that embodies any component described in the means for solving the problem, the form for carrying out the invention, etc. The present application also intends to obtain rights in this application or in divisional applications, amendment applications, etc. based on this application. [Industrial applicability]

[0134] The present invention can be suitably used in all types of driving diagnostic systems. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0135] 10: Driving diagnostic system 20: Driving time measurement unit 40: Evaluation score calculation unit

Claims

1. A driving diagnostic system for performing driving diagnostics on a vehicle, Using a point deduction system that deducts points according to predetermined driving operations, A means for measuring driving time, A scoring means for calculating driving evaluation scores by dividing the number of deductions calculated by the aforementioned deduction method by the driving time, A driving diagnostic system characterized by having the following features.

2. The driving diagnostic system according to claim 1, characterized in that the driving time measuring means measures the period during which the vehicle speed is equal to or greater than a first predetermined speed when the vehicle is in motion as the driving time.

3. The aforementioned driving time measuring means is After the vehicle's power is turned on, the measurement of the driving time is started when the vehicle speed exceeds the first predetermined speed. The driving diagnostic system according to claim 2, characterized in that the measurement of the driving time is stopped when the vehicle speed falls below a second predetermined speed.

4. The aforementioned driving time measuring means is The driving diagnostic system according to claim 3, characterized in that, after the measurement of the driving time is stopped, the measurement of the driving time is resumed when the vehicle speed exceeds a third predetermined speed.

5. The second predetermined speed is lower than the first predetermined speed. The driving diagnostic system according to claim 4, characterized in that the third predetermined speed is faster than the second predetermined speed and slower than the first predetermined speed.

6. The driving diagnostic system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the evaluation score calculation means calculates the driving evaluation score for each predetermined distance traveled during the measurement of the driving time.

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