Self-diagnostic device and self-diagnostic system

Abstract

A self-diagnosis device 100 comprising: a self-diagnosis control unit 112 that outputs preset self-diagnosis information to an information output unit 170; an information detection unit 140 that detects output information outputted from the information output unit 170 in accordance with the self-diagnosis information, and outputs the detection result as detection information; and an abnormality determination unit 114 that compares the self-diagnosis information and the detection information during a preset synchronization window period, and if difference information resulting from the comparison surpasses preset range information, determines that there is an abnormality in the information output unit 170 and outputs abnormality information.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a self-diagnosis device for pre-diagnosing whether an information output device operates normally, and a self-diagnosis system.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, information output devices that electrically output necessary information using speakers, buzzers, backlight panels, displays, etc. are known. For example, in a vehicle including an automobile, when there is any abnormality or sign in the electronic device system of the automobile, particularly in the vehicle control system, it is necessary to quickly notify the user of the system abnormality and request information such as repair or maintenance.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] For example, in an electronic device having a function of driving a speaker based on a voice signal for self-diagnosis disclosed in Patent Document 1, it has a plurality of speakers connected to at least one channel and having different frequency characteristics. Further, the electronic device has diagnostic means for diagnosing abnormalities in each wiring of the plurality of speakers, and the diagnostic means has detection means for detecting the current consumption when each of the plurality of speakers is driven. Furthermore, the electronic device includes determination means for determining the presence or absence of an abnormality in each speaker wiring based on the detected current consumption.

[0005] However, the conventional technology described above could not detect cases where the speaker did not function properly even if a normal signal flowed through the speaker coil, such as when there was a defect or damage to the speaker's magnet or when the cone was damaged. In other words, it could not detect cases where the speaker could not emit sound at the desired volume even if a normal signal flowed through the speaker coil. As mentioned above, in particular, when there was some kind of abnormality or warning sign in the electronic system of a vehicle such as an automobile, it was sometimes only discovered that the information could not be output properly when it was needed.

[0006] This invention has been made in view of the problems of the prior art. The object of this invention is to provide a self-diagnostic device and a self-diagnostic system that diagnose in advance, at an appropriate timing, whether or not the information can be output normally, in order to ensure that the information is output normally when it should be output by the information output device. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] To solve the above-mentioned problems, a self-diagnostic device for self-diagnosing an information output unit that outputs at least one of the information of control information of an electronically controlled object controlled by an electronic control device, or information requested by a user of the controlled object, according to one aspect of the present invention, comprises: a self-diagnostic control unit that outputs predetermined self-diagnostic information to the information output unit; an information detection unit that detects output information output from the information output unit in correspondence with the self-diagnostic information and outputs the detection result as detection information; and an abnormality determination unit that compares the self-diagnostic information and the detection information within a predetermined synchronization window, determines that an abnormality exists in the information output unit when the difference information of the comparison results exceeds a predetermined range information, and outputs abnormality information. The self-diagnosis control unit outputs self-diagnosis information, the detection information is input to the abnormality determination unit, and the determination timing determination unit predetermines the timing to start the synchronization window period in synchronization with the timing when the abnormality determination unit starts the comparison. It is equipped with.

[0008] To solve the above-mentioned problems, another aspect of the present invention provides a self-diagnostic system comprising the self-diagnostic device described above, an information output unit, and a drive unit for driving the information output unit. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to the present invention, it becomes possible to diagnose in advance, at an appropriate timing, whether or not an information output device can output information normally when it should. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a self-diagnostic system including self-diagnostic devices according to multiple embodiments. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a self-diagnostic device according to multiple embodiments. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a flowchart showing an example of a self-diagnosis method using the self-diagnosis device shown in Figure 2. [Figure 4A] Figure 4A is a schematic diagram showing an example of the arrangement relationship between the information output unit and the information detection unit. [Figure 4B] Figure 4B is a schematic diagram showing another example of the arrangement between the information output unit and the information detection unit. [Figure 4C] Figure 4C is a schematic diagram showing yet another example of the arrangement between the information output unit and the information detection unit. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a diagram illustrating a network configuration including a self-diagnostic system when a transmitter is included. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0011] Hereinafter, an example of a self-diagnostic device and self-diagnostic system according to this embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. The embodiments described below are comprehensive or specific examples. The numerical values, shapes, materials, components, installation positions and connection configurations of components, steps, and the order of steps shown in the following embodiments are examples and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. Furthermore, among the components in the following embodiments, components not described in the independent claim representing the highest-level concept will be described as optional components. In addition, the dimensional ratios in the drawings are exaggerated for illustrative purposes and may differ from the actual ratios.

[0012] Furthermore, the following embodiments and their modifications may include similar components, and similar components are given common reference numerals, and redundant descriptions are omitted.

[0013] (Overview of self-diagnostic devices and systems) The self-diagnostic device, etc., according to the embodiment can be installed, for example, in vehicles such as passenger cars and buses, mobile objects such as trains, aircraft, spacecraft, ships, and submarines, and in the interior space of buildings such as houses and offices, and in some cases in the exterior space of structures such as factories. The self-diagnostic device, etc., diagnoses whether an information output unit is functioning normally before a situation arises where information output from an information output unit that allows a user in the mobile object or structure to perceive information through the five senses such as sight, hearing, and smell is needed. In particular, the self-diagnostic device according to the embodiment is characterized by comparing self-diagnostic information for generating appropriate output information with detection information from an information detection unit that detects the output information actually output from the information output unit, and determining whether the output information is being output normally. Furthermore, this determination is performed by synchronizing and comparing the self-diagnostic information for generating appropriate output information and the detection information at an appropriate timing before the information output unit is actually needed. If there is an abnormality in the comparison result, the device is characterized by making the user aware of the abnormality through an information output unit other than the one in which the abnormality was detected. With this configuration, it becomes possible to diagnose in advance, at the appropriate time, whether or not the information can be output correctly, in order to ensure that the information is output correctly when it should be output in the information output unit.

[0014] When there is a malfunction in any of the information output units, examples of abnormal information output from a normal information output unit include fault information indicating a failure in the output system including the faulty information output unit, and repair required information indicating that the system including the faulty information output unit should be repaired. The meaning of this abnormal information may be expressed as audio information, or as image information such as text or images, or it may be recognized by the user by describing the correspondence between the abnormal information and its meaning in a manual or other document.

[0015] Referring to Figure 1, the relationships between the self-diagnostic device 100, the controlled object 10 on which the self-diagnostic device 100 is mounted, the electronic control unit 200 that controls the controlled object 10, the sensor unit 210, the information output unit 170, and the information detection unit 140 according to multiple embodiments will be mainly outlined. The sensor unit 210 outputs various sensor information of the controlled object 10 to the electronic control unit 200 or, if necessary, to the self-diagnostic device 100. The electronic control unit 200 outputs necessary information to the user from the information output unit 170 according to the status of the controlled object 10 obtained from the various sensor information. The electronic control unit 200 also controls the controlled object 10 according to the status of the controlled object 10 obtained from the various sensor information. Furthermore, the electronic control unit 200 may also output information from the information output unit 170 in response to user requests such as user operations. In the embodiment, the self-diagnostic device 100 inputs appropriate self-diagnostic information to the information output unit 170 before the information output unit 170 is actually driven, and the information detection unit 140 detects the output information from the information output unit 170. The self-diagnostic device 100 compares the self-diagnostic information with the detection information to determine whether the information output unit 170 is functioning correctly. Based on the results of the self-diagnosis, the self-diagnostic device 100 outputs information about the malfunctioning information output unit 170 from other information output units 170 that have been confirmed to be functioning correctly, prompting the user to check for malfunctions and to have them repaired as soon as possible. Examples of controlled objects 10 include vehicles such as passenger cars and buses, mobile objects such as trains, aircraft, spacecraft, ships, and submarines, as well as electronic equipment in buildings such as houses and offices, and structures such as factories.

[0016] Also, as described above, the information output unit 170 mainly has a function of outputting information regarding the status of the control target 10 controlled by the electronic control device 200. For example, when the control target 10 is a vehicle, examples of the information output unit 170 include devices that output information perceptible by the user's five senses, such as a speaker that prompts seat belt wearing, LEDs or organic ELs on the operation panel, and a fragrance diffuser that prevents drowsiness or promotes comfortable driving. Further, as an example of the information detection unit 140, there are a microphone that detects sound or vibration output from a speaker, an acceleration sensor, a light receiving element such as a photodiode that detects light output from an LED or organic EL, and a fragrance sensor that detects fragrance. Note that the information output unit 170 is not limited to the above devices, etc., and can be any device that outputs information recognizable by the user's five senses, such as a fan for ventilation, a temperature regulator such as a heater or cooler for changing temperature and humidity. Also, the information detection unit 140 is not limited to the above devices, etc., and can be any device, etc. that can detect information recognizable by the user's five senses, such as an air volume detection sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, etc.

[0017] Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 1, some functions of the self-diagnosis device 100 can be incorporated into the electronic control device 200, but it is also possible to configure the functions of the self-diagnosis device 100 except for the information output unit 170 separately from the electronic control device 200. The details of the relationship between the functions of the self-diagnosis device 100 and the functions of the electronic control device 200 will be described later. Also, the self-diagnosis system 400 includes the above-described self-diagnosis device 100, the information output unit 170, and a driving unit 160 that drives the information output unit 170 shown in FIG. 2. The abnormal information of the self-diagnosis system 400 is preferably transmitted to the electronic device 300 used by the user, and the abnormal information is also notified to the user when the user accesses the electronic device 300. The electronic device 300 may be an electronic device used by the user, such as a computer arranged on the cloud, a mobile phone carried by the user, a PHS phone, a smartphone, a portable information terminal, etc.

[0018] (Details of the self-diagnosis device) Referring to FIG. 2, the detailed configuration of the self-diagnosis apparatus 100 according to multiple embodiments will be described. The self-diagnosis apparatus 100 includes a control unit 110, a self-diagnosis information conversion unit 120, a detection information conversion unit 130, at least one or more information detection units 140, and a storage unit 150. Note that, as will be described later, the detection information conversion unit 130 may be included in the information detection unit 140 or the control unit 110. Also, the information output unit 170 that causes the user to recognize the drive information output from the drive unit 160 shown in FIG. 2 through the five senses such as vision, hearing, and smell is basically provided in the electronic control device 200. Also, it is basic that a plurality of information output units 170 are provided in the electronic control device 200.

[0019] That is, there may be a case where a plurality of information output units 170 are provided in one self-diagnosis apparatus 100, and a plurality of information detection units 140 are also provided in one self-diagnosis apparatus 100. Note that there may be a case where one information detection unit 140 can detect the output information of a plurality of information output units 170. Therefore, in the present embodiment, it is not limited to a form in which one information detection unit 140 corresponds to one information output unit 170, and there may be a form in which one information detection unit 140 corresponds to a plurality of information output units 170. Furthermore, in the present embodiment, it is not limited to a form in which one drive unit 160 corresponds to one information output unit 170, and there may be a form in which one drive unit 160 corresponds to a plurality of information output units 170. Details of the above various forms will be described later.

[0020] The control unit 110 can be implemented using a microcomputer equipped with a CPU (Central Processing Unit), etc. A computer program (self-diagnostic program) for enabling the microcomputer to function as the control unit 110 is installed on the microcomputer and executed. As a result, the microcomputer functions as one of the multiple information processing units provided by the control unit 110. In this specification, an example of implementing the control unit 110 using software is shown, but of course, it is also possible to configure the control unit 110 by preparing dedicated hardware for executing each information processing. Dedicated hardware includes devices such as application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs) or conventional circuit components arranged to perform the functions described in the embodiment. Furthermore, the multiple information processing units included in the control unit 110 may be configured with separate hardware. In addition, the control unit 110 may also be used as an electronic control device 200 used to control the information output unit 170 that is subject to self-diagnosis.

[0021] For example, if the self-diagnostic device 100 is installed on a mobile body, the functions of the self-diagnostic device 100 may be included in the functions of the electronic control unit 200 that controls the mobile body. In this case, a self-diagnostic program that realizes the functions of the self-diagnostic device 100 may be added to the electronic control program of the electronic control unit 200. Alternatively, hardware that realizes the functions of the self-diagnostic device 100 may be added to the hardware of the electronic control unit 200. Furthermore, at least a part of the electronic control program of the electronic control unit 200 may be configured to include at least a part of the self-diagnostic program of the self-diagnostic device 100. Furthermore, at least a part of the hardware of the electronic control unit 200 may be configured to include at least a part of the hardware of the self-diagnostic device 100. In addition, the functions of the self-diagnostic device 100 may be included in the functions of an electronic control unit 200 having any function installed in the interior space of a building such as a house or office, a structure such as a factory, or, in some cases, in the exterior space.

[0022] The control unit 110 includes, as a plurality of information processing units, a self-diagnosis start detection unit 111, a self-diagnosis control unit 112, a determination timing determination unit 113, and an abnormality determination unit 114.

[0023] The self-diagnosis start detection unit 111 is configured to detect the timing to start the self-diagnosis process and output a self-diagnosis start signal to the self-diagnosis control unit 112. The timing to start the self-diagnosis process can be set to any desired timing.

[0024] For example, the self-diagnosis start detection unit 111 is equipped with a timer unit (not shown), and when the timer unit measures a predetermined time, the self-diagnosis start detection unit 111 can recognize the timing to start the self-diagnosis process. The timing to start the self-diagnosis process is set in advance by the self-diagnosis device 100 so that it is at regular or irregular intervals. The self-diagnosis device 100 stores this timing in the parameter information storage unit 151, and the self-diagnosis start detection unit 111 can read this timing from the parameter information storage unit 151 and execute it. Alternatively, the self-diagnosis start detection unit 111 can be configured to output a self-diagnosis start signal immediately after power is turned on to the self-diagnosis device 100, or immediately after power is turned on to the electronic control unit 200 including the self-diagnosis device 100. With such a configuration, the self-diagnosis device 100 can execute the self-diagnosis process at an appropriate timing when the system starts up.

[0025] Furthermore, for example, at any timing in the initialization processing sequence performed immediately after power-on by the electronic control unit 200, which includes the self-diagnostic device 100, the electronic control unit 200 can output a start signal to the self-diagnostic start detection unit 111 to start self-diagnosis. With such a configuration, the self-diagnostic device 100 can perform self-diagnosis processing while the system initialization process is running, making it possible to inform the user of abnormal conditions without causing the user any discomfort.

[0026] Furthermore, for example, the moving body may be equipped with various sensor units 210, and it is possible to configure the system so that the self-diagnosis start detection unit 111 does not output a self-diagnosis start signal when the output of the various sensor units 210 changes rapidly. It is also possible to configure the system so that the self-diagnosis start detection unit 111 outputs a self-diagnosis block signal to the self-diagnosis control unit 112 at the above timing. For example, if the sensor unit 210 is an acceleration sensor and the moving body is a vehicle, it is possible to configure the system so that the self-diagnosis start detection unit 111 does not output a self-diagnosis start signal when the moving body accelerates or stops suddenly, or when the moving body is turning a curve. It is also possible to configure the system so that the self-diagnosis start detection unit 111 outputs a self-diagnosis block signal when the moving body is in the above state. Furthermore, it is possible that the self-diagnosis control unit 112, upon receiving a self-diagnosis block signal, will interrupt the self-diagnosis process even if a self-diagnosis process has already started. In this case, it is also possible that the self-diagnosis control unit 112 will resume the interrupted self-diagnosis process upon receiving a self-diagnosis block release signal. For example, if the user is not concentrating on operating the moving object, such as when the moving object is not accelerating or stopping suddenly, or when the moving object is not turning a curve, the self-diagnosis start detection unit 111 can perform the following processes. That is, in the above cases, the self-diagnosis start detection unit 111 can be configured to output a self-diagnosis start signal or a self-diagnosis block release signal to the self-diagnosis control unit 112. These configurations can also be realized by inputting the outputs from various sensor units 210 connected to the electronic control unit 200 to the self-diagnosis start detection unit 111. Alternatively, the electronic control unit 200 may be configured to decide to stop the self-diagnosis processing of the self-diagnosis device 100 based on the outputs from the various sensor units 210, and output a self-diagnosis processing stop signal to the self-diagnosis start detection unit 111. Subsequently, the electronic control unit 200 may be configured to decide to restart the self-diagnosis processing of the self-diagnosis device 100 based on the outputs from the various sensor units 210, and output a self-diagnosis processing stop release signal to the self-diagnosis start detection unit 111.

[0027] As described above, the self-diagnosis start detection unit 111 can also keep the self-diagnosis block signal active if the output values ​​of the various sensor units 210 change significantly (a significant change occurs in the moving object), or if a significant change in the moving object continues. The self-diagnosis control unit 112 is configured not to perform self-diagnosis processing while the self-diagnosis block signal is active or until a self-diagnosis block release signal is input. The self-diagnosis block signal may be the signal with the highest priority in the self-diagnosis start detection unit 111. With this configuration, the self-diagnosis device 100 can perform self-diagnosis processing at an appropriate time by not performing self-diagnosis processing when the user is concentrating on other operations.

[0028] Furthermore, for example, the self-diagnosis start detection unit 111 can be configured to output a self-diagnosis start signal to the self-diagnosis control unit 112 when a user sits down. For example, if the vehicle is equipped with an electronic control unit 200, the following process can be performed. When the electronic control unit 200 detects that a user has sat down in a seat, including the driver's seat, it outputs a seating detection signal to the self-diagnosis start detection unit 111, thereby enabling the self-diagnosis start detection unit 111 to detect when a user has sat down. The electronic control unit 200 requires a seating sensor in the seat, but seating sensors are widely used as sensors attached to so-called seat belt reminders and smart airbags. With such a configuration, if there is an abnormality in the information output unit 170 that makes the user aware of various information when the user is using a moving object such as a vehicle, it is possible to make the user aware of the abnormality at the appropriate time. Also, if the vehicle is equipped with a navigation system, various information detected by the navigation system can be input to the self-diagnosis start detection unit 111 as sensor information. For example, when approaching an intersection, information indicating that the vehicle is approaching an intersection can be input to the self-diagnosis start detection unit 111 as sensor information.

[0029] When a self-diagnosis start signal is input, the self-diagnosis control unit 112 is configured to recognize the type of information output unit 170 to be self-diagnosed and to execute a process to output self-diagnosis information to the information output unit 170. Then, the abnormality determination unit 114, described later, compares the detection information (when the information detection unit 140 detects the output information output from the information output unit 170) with the self-diagnosis information and performs a self-diagnosis. When a self-diagnosis block release signal is received, the self-diagnosis control unit 112 also executes the process to output the above self-diagnosis information. Furthermore, if there are multiple information output units 170, the self-diagnosis control unit 112 can also determine the order in which the self-diagnosis processing should be performed on the information output units 170.

[0030] For example, if there is an information output unit 170 that the electronic control unit 200 intends to use, it is possible to configure the system to perform a self-diagnosis process for the information output unit 170 before it is actually used. In this case, it is also possible to configure the system so that information output unit identification information for identifying the information output unit 170 to be used is input from the electronic control unit 200 to the self-diagnosis control unit 112. Alternatively, the information output unit identification information for identifying the information output unit 170 to be used may be input from the electronic control unit 200 to the aforementioned self-diagnosis start detection unit 111, and the self-diagnosis start signal may include the information output unit identification information. With such a configuration, if there is an abnormality in the information output unit 170 used by the electronic control unit 200, it becomes possible to accurately inform the user of the abnormality before the timing of use.

[0031] When the self-diagnosis control unit 112 receives a self-diagnosis start signal from the self-diagnosis start detection unit 111, it identifies the information output unit 170 connected to the self-diagnosis device 100. For example, the self-diagnosis device 100 can pre-store identification information of the information output unit 170 connected to the self-diagnosis device 100 in the self-diagnosis information storage unit 152, which will be described later, in association with self-diagnosis information. The self-diagnosis control unit 112 determines the order in which to perform self-diagnosis on the identified information output unit 170, and reads the self-diagnosis information from the self-diagnosis information storage unit 152 according to the determined order. The self-diagnosis control unit 112 outputs the self-diagnosis information to the self-diagnosis information conversion unit 120 according to the determined order.

[0032] For example, the self-diagnosis control unit 112 may be configured to perform self-diagnosis sequentially from information output units 170 with long cumulative usage times to information output units 170 with short cumulative usage times. Alternatively, the self-diagnosis control unit 112 may be configured to perform self-diagnosis sequentially from information output units 170 with short MTBF (Mean Time Between Failure) to information output units 170 with long MTBF. Furthermore, if there is an information output unit 170 with a cumulative usage time exceeding the MTBF, the self-diagnosis control unit 112 may be configured to prioritize the execution of self-diagnosis for that information output unit 170. The order in which self-diagnosis is performed may be determined by any combination of the above orders. The cumulative usage time and MTBF can be stored in the self-diagnosis information storage unit 152 in association with the identification information of the information output unit 170. For example, each time the electronic control device 200 uses the information output unit 170, the information output unit identification information, a start signal, and a end signal are input to the self-diagnosis device 100, and the cumulative usage time may be stored in the self-diagnosis information storage unit 152. Furthermore, the MTBF of the information output unit 170 can be pre-stored in the self-diagnosis information storage unit 152. The self-diagnosis control unit 112 may also be configured to perform self-diagnoses sequentially, starting with the information output units 170 with the largest cumulative usage time or MTBF.

[0033] Furthermore, it is preferable that the self-diagnostic information is information that is difficult for humans to perceive, as indicated by the information output unit 170. For example, if the self-diagnostic information is related to hearing, it is preferable that the pattern of sound information has frequencies that avoid the range of approximately 20 Hz to 20 kHz. Also, if the self-diagnostic information is related to hearing in the range of approximately 20 Hz to 20 kHz, it is preferable that the volume is difficult for humans to perceive. Furthermore, if the self-diagnostic information is related to vision, it is preferable that the pattern of light information avoids wavelengths from approximately 360 nm to 860 nm. Alternatively, if the wavelength indicated by the self-diagnostic information is light with wavelengths from approximately 360 nm to 860 nm, it is preferable to perform the following processing. For example, if the wavelength is light from approximately 360 nm to 860 nm, it is preferable to process the luminous flux, which indicates the amount of light emitted from the light source, to a value that is difficult for the user to perceive. Since the magnitude of the luminous flux is inversely proportional to the square of the distance, it is preferable to place the information output unit 170 and the information detection unit 140 adjacent to each other. In addition, a light guide path made of resin or the like may be provided between the light source, such as an LED, and the surface of the display panel, etc., to efficiently extract light. In this case, the information detection unit 140 may be placed close to the light guide path. Furthermore, by making the light output from the information output unit 170 a light pattern with a small duty cycle, it is possible to fine-tune the luminous flux emitted from the light source to a value that is difficult for the user to see. In this case, the flashing frequency is preferably about 50 Hz or higher. Furthermore, it is preferable that the flashing frequency is different from the frequency of the information output unit 170 used by the electronic control device 200, and the lighting time is shorter than the lighting time used by the electronic control device 200. Preferably, the flashing frequency is several hundred Hz or higher, and the lighting time is several milliseconds or less. In this way, by reducing the magnitude of the luminous flux from the light source, placing the information output unit 170 and the information detection unit 140 adjacent to each other, and making fine adjustments such as reducing the duty cycle of the lighting, the visual magnitude of the luminous flux from the light source can be reduced, making it possible to output information from the information output unit 170 that is difficult for the user to see.However, if an LED is provided as the light source for the information output unit 170, each LED has a predetermined wavelength, and if it emits light outside the visible light spectrum so that it is invisible to humans, then a separate LED dedicated to the light source would be required, distinct from the one used for alerts. This would deviate from the purpose of self-diagnosing the light source and its circuit for alerts, and is therefore inappropriate. For this reason, it is preferable that the LED provided as the light source for the information output unit 170 emits visible light. It is also possible to install a dimming device between the user's line of sight and the information output unit 170, and configure it so that the transmittance of the dimming device is reduced when self-diagnostic processing is performed and increased when self-diagnostic processing is not performed.

[0034] Furthermore, if the self-diagnosis information is related to the sense of smell, it is preferable that the pattern shows a quantity of fragrance that is difficult for the user to perceive. It is also possible to configure the system so that after the self-diagnosis, the information output unit 170 or the information detection unit 140 releases fragrance components that deodorize the fragrance used for the self-diagnosis.

[0035] Furthermore, it is also possible to configure the system so that the self-diagnosis information is associated with the identification information of the information output unit 170 and stored in the self-diagnosis information storage unit 152 in advance.

[0036] The judgment timing determination unit 113 is configured to determine the timing at which the abnormality determination unit 114 determines whether the information output unit 170 is operating normally. For example, if the timing at which the self-diagnosis control unit 112 outputs self-diagnosis information and the timing at which the abnormality determination unit 114 determines the detection information output from the information detection unit 140 are synchronized, it becomes possible to improve the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and more accurately determine abnormalities. Furthermore, if the self-diagnosis information contains specific frequency components, it becomes possible to suppress noise frequency components by comparing synchronized information.

[0037] For example, a delay occurs between the conversion and propagation of self-diagnosis information via the self-diagnosis information conversion unit 120, the drive unit 160, the information output unit 170, the information detection unit 140, and the detection information conversion unit 130, and its arrival at the abnormality determination unit 114. By recognizing this delay in advance, the determination timing determination unit 113 can synchronize and compare the self-diagnosis information and the detection information. The determination timing determination unit 113 obtains from the self-diagnosis control unit 112 an output information signal indicating which information output unit 170 the self-diagnosis control unit 112 has output the self-diagnosis information to, and the self-diagnosis information output to the information output unit 170. The determination timing determination unit 113 reads from the self-diagnosis information storage unit 152 the delay time corresponding to the information output unit 170 indicated by the output information signal. In this way, the determination timing determination unit 113 determines the delay time corresponding to the information output unit 170. The delay time from when the self-diagnostic information is converted and propagated via the self-diagnostic information conversion unit 120, drive unit 160, information output unit 170, information detection unit 140, and detection information conversion unit 130 until it reaches the abnormality determination unit 114 can be measured in advance by the self-diagnostic device 100. The delay time measured in advance for each information output unit 170 can be stored by the self-diagnostic device 100 in the self-diagnostic information storage unit 152 in association with the information output unit 170. Alternatively, the delay time calculated in advance from the specifications defined for the self-diagnostic information conversion unit 120, drive unit 160, information output unit 170, information detection unit 140, and detection information conversion unit 130 can be stored in the self-diagnostic information storage unit 152 by the self-diagnostic device 100.

[0038] The judgment timing determination unit 113 can also set the judgment start timing as a value obtained by adding the delay time from the timing when it receives the self-diagnosis information from the self-diagnosis control unit 112. The abnormality determination unit 114 can also set the judgment end timing as a value obtained by adding the delay time from the timing when it finishes receiving the self-diagnosis information from the self-diagnosis control unit 112. Furthermore, if the self-diagnosis information is pulsed information, it is also possible to configure the judgment timing determination unit 113 to set the judgment start timing and judgment end timing for each pulse. The judgment timing determination unit 113 can output the judgment start timing and judgment end timing as described above to the abnormality determination unit 114. The judgment timing determination unit 113 can also determine the period from the judgment start timing to the judgment end timing as the judgment window period (synchronous window period). In this case, the judgment timing determination unit 113 can also output judgment window-related signals indicating the judgment start timing and the judgment window period to the abnormality determination unit 114.

[0039] The abnormality determination unit 114 compares the detection information output from the information detection unit 140, which is associated with the information output unit 170, with the self-diagnosis information at the timing specified by the determination timing determination unit 113. If the difference between the detection information output from the information detection unit 140 and the self-diagnosis information is within a predetermined tolerance range, or if they match, the abnormality determination unit 114 determines that the information output unit 170 is operating normally. Detection information If the difference with the self-diagnosis information exceeds a predetermined tolerance range, the abnormality determination unit 114 determines that the information output unit 170 is not functioning correctly.

[0040] Furthermore, the anomaly detection unit 114 can perform execution processing to assign arbitrary weights to the self-diagnosis information and detection information compared within the detection window period. For example, the weights at the beginning and end of the detection window period can be set to zero, and the weights can be increased around the middle of the detection window period. As an example, the detection window period can be weighted using any window function such as a Hamming window. In this way, by using an appropriate window function for the detection window period, it is possible to reduce the impact on the detection due to timing discrepancies before and after the start and end of the detection. In addition, by using an appropriate window function for the detection window period, it is possible to improve the accuracy of anomaly detection.

[0041] Furthermore, if the self-diagnosis information for self-diagnosing a single information output unit 170 consists of multiple pulses, the abnormality determination unit 114 can also use the interval between the pulses in the self-diagnosis information and the detection information for abnormality determination. If the comparison result of the pulse intervals exceeds a predetermined range, the abnormality determination unit 114 can determine that the information output unit 170 is not operating normally. In addition, for example, if the pulse intervals are equal and the pulses indicate a specific frequency, the abnormality determination unit 114 can also perform FFT (fast Fourier transform) processing on the detection information and perform frequency analysis. In this case, if the comparison result of the pulse frequencies exceeds a predetermined range, the abnormality determination unit 114 can also determine that the information output unit 170 is not operating normally.

[0042] Furthermore, a single pulse of self-diagnostic information may consist of multiple signals having specific frequency components. For example, if the information output unit 170 is a speaker and vibrates at 10Hz for 0.5 seconds, and then vibrates multiple times at 0.5-second intervals, the speaker will vibrate at 10Hz for 0.5 seconds, followed by a period of no vibration, and this cycle will repeat. In this case, a single pulse of self-diagnostic information consists of multiple signals having a 10Hz signal component. Also, a single pulse of detection information over 0.5 seconds contains a 10Hz signal component. In these cases, the abnormality determination unit 114 performs FFT analysis for each pulse. By comparing the frequency components of a single pulse of self-diagnostic information with the frequency components of a single pulse of detection information, the abnormality determination unit 114 can determine that the information output unit 170 is not functioning correctly if the frequency comparison result exceeds a predetermined range. Note that if the noise level is low, the frequency can also be calculated from the time width of a single pulse, or from the time width of a single signal component contained within a single pulse. Furthermore, the abnormality detection unit 114 can also treat one pulse as a single signal such as a square wave or sine wave, perform frequency analysis of the pulse train, and determine that the information output unit 170 is not functioning correctly if the frequency comparison result exceeds a predetermined range. This frequency analysis can also be performed by the abnormality detection unit 114 using FFT analysis or time width analysis. In FFT analysis, the abnormality detection unit 114 can use the aforementioned window function.

[0043] If the abnormality detection unit 114 determines that there is an abnormality in a self-diagnosis targeting any of the information output units 170, it outputs the identification information of the information output unit 170 in which the abnormality was found, or the identification information and the abnormality detection information, as abnormality information to a normal information output unit 170.

[0044] For example, if the information output unit 170 is a speaker, identification information indicating the information output unit 170 that has detected a malfunction, and information indicating that there is a malfunction, are emitted. As an example, audio information such as "The speaker on the right side of the driver's door is malfunctioning. We recommend that you have it repaired as soon as possible" is emitted from another speaker that is functioning normally. Alternatively, similar information may be displayed on a display that is functioning normally.

[0045] Furthermore, if the abnormality detection unit 114 diagnoses that the information output unit 170, which is the subject of self-diagnosis, is abnormal, it stores the detection information of the abnormality in the detection information storage unit 153. With this configuration, when the information output unit 170 that has been determined to be abnormal is to be repaired at a repair shop or the like, it becomes possible to reproduce the abnormal state of the information output unit 170 that has been determined to be abnormal, and repairs can be carried out quickly.

[0046] Furthermore, even if the information output unit 170 that was the subject of the self-diagnosis is diagnosed as normal, the abnormality determination unit 114 stores the detection information in the detection information storage unit 153. If there is past detection information for the same information output unit 170, the abnormality determination unit 114 can be configured to detect the time-series changes in the detection information. If the time-series changes in the detection information of the target information output unit 170 allow for the estimation of the failure time of the information output unit 170, the abnormality determination unit 114 outputs information regarding the prediction of future failure of the target information output unit 170 as abnormality information to the normal information output unit 170. For example, the self-diagnosis device 100 can store the degradation curve of the target information output unit 170 in the detection information storage unit 153 in advance, associating it with the identification information of the information output unit 170.

[0047] The self-diagnosis information conversion unit 120 performs the operation of converting the self-diagnosis information input from the self-diagnosis control unit 112 into an information format that can be output from the information output unit 170. For example, if the information output unit 170 is a speaker, the self-diagnosis information conversion unit 120 can operate as a D / A (digital-to-analog) converter. That is, it converts the self-diagnosis information expressed as a digital signal into an analog signal for driving the speaker. Since the output of the D / A converter is a voltage, the drive unit 160, which will be described later, converts the voltage signal into a current signal.

[0048] Furthermore, while the self-diagnostic information may contain a time-series recording of sound signal patterns to be emitted from the speaker, this embodiment is not limited to a form in which the self-diagnostic information is a digitized version of the information pattern to be output from the information output unit 170. For example, the self-diagnostic information may contain frequency, output level, and output pattern as text information. If the human audible frequency range is 20Hz to 20kHz, the self-diagnostic information may contain information such as frequency (10Hz), volume (40dB), and output pattern (0.5-second intervals, constant volume of 40dB). In this case, the self-diagnostic information conversion unit 120 analyzes the information of frequency (10Hz), volume (40dB), and output pattern (0.5-second intervals, constant volume of 40dB) and generates a digital pattern of the signal. The self-diagnostic information conversion unit 120 may also include a configuration for D / A conversion of the generated digital pattern of the signal.

[0049] Furthermore, for example, if the information output unit 170 is an LED, the self-diagnostic information conversion unit 120 may operate as a D / A converter, similar to the case described above. That is, it converts the self-diagnostic information, expressed as a digital signal, into an analog signal that can be used to create a pattern for the LED to emit light. Although the output of the D / A converter is a voltage, the drive unit 160, described later, may add a bias voltage to the analog signal to initiate the LED's illumination.

[0050] Furthermore, while the self-diagnosis information may contain a time-series signal pattern of light emitted from the LED, this embodiment is not limited to a form in which the self-diagnosis information is a digitized output pattern of information to be output from the information output unit 170. For example, the self-diagnosis information may contain the output frequency, output level, and output pattern as text information. For example, the self-diagnosis information may contain information such as output frequency (1kHz), brightness (20 millicandelas), and output pattern ((0.5 seconds, 20 millicandelas), (0.5 seconds, 0 millicandelas), (0.5 seconds, 20 millicandelas)). In this case, the self-diagnosis information conversion unit 120 may include a configuration that generates a digital signal pattern that satisfies the above information and performs D / A conversion on the generated digital signal pattern.

[0051] Furthermore, for example, if the information output unit 170 is a fragrance release device, the self-diagnostic information conversion unit 120 can be configured to extract the type of fragrance, the intensity of the fragrance, and the fragrance release pattern from the self-diagnostic information. The intensity of the fragrance may be determined based on the concentration of fragrance components in the air or the predetermined amount of fragrance components released into the air. In this case, the self-diagnostic information conversion unit 120 may be configured to output the extracted information to the drive unit 160, which then converts the extracted information into a command and outputs the command to the fragrance release device.

[0052] The drive unit 160 performs drive processing such as amplification and conversion in order to output the information converted in the self-diagnosis information conversion unit 120 to the information output unit 170. For example, if the information output unit 170 is a speaker, the drive unit 160 performs an operation to amplify the current so that the sound waves radiated from the speaker reach a level that can be identified as a signal by the information detection unit 140. The amplification level may be predetermined by the self-diagnosis information.

[0053] For example, if the information output unit 170 is a buzzer, the drive unit 160 performs an operation to amplify the voltage so that the sound waves emitted from the buzzer reach a level that can be identified as a signal by the information detection unit 140. The amplification level may be predetermined by self-diagnostic information.

[0054] Furthermore, for example, if the information output unit 170 is an LED, the drive unit 160 performs an operation to amplify the current so that the light emitted from the LED reaches a level that can be identified as a signal by the information detection unit 140. The larger the current between the anode and cathode, the higher the brightness of the light emitted from the LED, and the larger the voltage converted photoelectrically by the information detection unit 140. The amplification level may be predetermined by self-diagnostic information.

[0055] Furthermore, for example, if the information output unit 170 is an organic EL, the drive unit 160 performs an operation to amplify the voltage so that the light emitted from the organic EL reaches a level that can be identified as a signal by the information detection unit 140. The larger the voltage between the anode and cathode, the higher the brightness of the light emitted from the organic EL, and the larger the voltage converted photoelectrically by the information detection unit 140. The amplification level may be predetermined by output self-diagnosis pattern information.

[0056] Furthermore, for example, if the information output unit 170 is a display using LEDs or organic EL, the drive unit 160 performs an operation to amplify the voltage so that the light emitted from the display reaches a level that can be identified as a signal by the information detection unit 140. The drive unit 160 also causes the LEDs or organic EL of the desired color system contained in the pixels to emit light using an active matrix type or a simple matrix type. The amplification level may be predetermined by self-diagnostic information.

[0057] Furthermore, for example, if the information output unit 170 is a fragrance emitter, the drive unit 160 performs an operation to adjust the amount of fragrance emitted from the fragrance emitter so that the fragrance emitted from the fragrance emitter reaches a level that can be identified as a signal by the information detection unit 140. The drive unit 160 can also determine the type of fragrance emitted from the fragrance emitter. These operations can be performed by the commands described above, but it is also possible to configure the drive unit 160 to be equipped with a selector or the like to determine the type of fragrance emitted from the fragrance emitter.

[0058] The information output unit 170 is configured to receive a drive signal optimized by the drive unit 160 and output information. Examples of the information output unit 170 include auditory information output devices such as speakers and buzzers, visual information output devices such as LEDs, organic EL displays, and fragrance emitters. The information output unit 170 is not limited to one unit, and any number of information output units 170 can be installed. In addition, while the information output unit 170 that outputs alerts such as warnings is usually installed in the vehicle body, in the case of a means of transportation that involves the wearing of an orthotic device that provides functional human augmentation, for example, the information output unit 170 may be installed in such an orthotic device. In this case, the orthotic device and the means of transportation will be connected by wireless communication.

[0059] The information detection unit 140 has a configuration that allows it to detect the output information of the information output unit 170. Therefore, the information detection unit 140 is determined by the type of information output unit 170. For example, if the information output unit 170 is an auditory information output device such as a speaker or buzzer, then the information detection unit 140 is an auditory information detection device or a vibration information input device.

[0060] Specifically, when the information output unit 170 is an auditory information output device such as a speaker or buzzer, the information detection unit 140 is an auditory information detection device such as a microphone, or a vibration information input device such as an acceleration sensor. When the information detection unit 140 is an auditory information detection device such as a microphone, it may be preferable to install one auditory information detection device such as a microphone for multiple auditory information output devices such as speakers or buzzers. This is because one auditory information detection device such as a microphone can identify and detect auditory information from multiple auditory information output devices for each device by changing the timing or frequency. However, the input frequency band of the auditory information detection device must include the frequency band of the output auditory information. With such a configuration, it is possible to reduce the number of auditory information detection devices, and thus reduce the overall system construction cost.

[0061] Furthermore, if the information detection unit 140 is a vibration information input device such as an acceleration sensor, it is preferable that the information output unit 170 and the information detection unit 140 are indirectly or directly connected via a vibration transmission medium. For example, the vibration transmission medium is preferably a rigid medium such as metal that can transmit vibrations well. However, if the information output unit 170 and the information detection unit 140 can transmit vibrations well via air, it is not necessary for them to be indirectly or directly connected via a vibration transmission medium. When vibrations can be transmitted well, it means that a predetermined signal-to-noise ratio is met, and the vibration components of the information output unit 170 can be extracted.

[0062] Furthermore, for example, if the information output unit 170 is a visual information output device such as an LED, organic LED, or display, then the information detection unit 140 is a visual information detection device such as a photodiode or phototransistor. It is preferable that a line of sight is ensured between the visual information output device and the visual information detection device. In some cases, it is preferable to install one visual information detection device such as a photodiode or phototransistor for multiple visual information output devices such as LEDs or organic LEDs. This is because one visual information detection device can identify and detect light, which is visual information from multiple visual information output devices, for each device by changing the timing and wavelength. However, the wavelength band of the visual information detection device must include the wavelength band of the light that is the output visual information. With such a configuration, it is possible to reduce the number of visual information detection devices, and thus reduce the overall construction cost of the system. Light, which is visual information, can also be propagated from the visual information output device to the visual information detection device via a reflector having a mirror surface, such as a reflective mirror (not shown), or via an optical propagation medium such as an optical fiber.

[0063] Furthermore, if the information output unit 170 is a visual information output device such as a liquid crystal display or an organic EL display, a visual information detection device such as a photodiode or phototransistor may be provided corresponding to a part of the display screen. For example, it is preferable to provide a visual information detection device that includes the emission wavelength when visual information is displayed in its light-receiving wavelength band at at least one location on the edge or corner of the periphery of the display surface of the visual information output device. In this case, it is also possible to consider the visual information output device as having self-diagnosed by self-diagnosing some of the light-emitting elements of the visual information output device adjacent to the visual information detection device provided on the edge or corner. If the visual information output device is a color display, it is also possible to perform self-diagnosis by blinking or lighting up red, blue, or green light-emitting elements. With such a configuration, it may be possible to perform self-diagnosis processing without being easily visible to the user.

[0064] Furthermore, if the visual information output device is a color display, self-diagnosis can be performed by, for example, flashing or illuminating one or a combination of red, blue, or green colors on the display surface of the visual information output device. For example, the light source is flashed or illuminated sequentially in a direction away from the visual information detection device or in a direction approaching the visual information detection device. Specifically, the light-emitting elements are illuminated sequentially from the periphery of the display surface toward the center, or from the center toward the periphery. In this case, it becomes possible to determine whether there is an abnormality in the visual information output device by whether the output intensity pattern of the visual information detection device is similar to the input pattern to the visual information output device. It is preferable that this sequence be performed sequentially using one or a combination of red, blue, or green colors.

[0065] Furthermore, for example, if the information output unit 170 is a fragrance-releasing device, the information detection unit 140 is an olfactory information input device such as a fragrance detection sensor. An example of a fragrance detection sensor is a sensor that utilizes the characteristic that electrical resistance changes due to strain in a MEMS (Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems) sensor array, by providing one or more types of sensitive films on the sensor array. Alternatively, the sensor may be configured to identify a fragrance based on the pattern of change in the electrical resistance of one or more types of sensitive films.

[0066] The detection information conversion unit 130 may be an A / D (Analog-to-digital) converter that converts detection information into a digital signal as needed. Also, as mentioned above, the detection information conversion unit 130 may be included in the information detection unit 140 or the abnormality determination unit 114.

[0067] The storage unit 150 is a computer-readable memory medium. For example, the storage unit 150 may be a ROM (Read Only Memory), an EPROM (Erasable Programmable ROM), an EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable ROM), a RAM (Random Access Memory), a hard disk, etc. The storage unit 150 may also be called a register, cache, main memory, etc. The storage unit 150 can store executable programs (program code), software modules, etc., for performing self-diagnosis according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0068] The memory unit 150 includes a parameter information memory unit 151, a self-diagnosis information memory unit 152, and a detection information memory unit 153.

[0069] The parameter information storage unit 151 has pre-stored information such as information about various window functions, information about the timing to start the self-diagnosis process, the version of the self-diagnosis device 100, the date of manufacture, and identification information.

[0070] The self-diagnosis information stored in the self-diagnosis information storage unit 152 is output pattern information that the information output unit 170 is expected to output for self-diagnosis. Furthermore, as described above, the self-diagnosis information storage unit 152 can pre-store identification information of the information output unit 170 connected to the self-diagnosis device 100, associated with the self-diagnosis information. In addition, the self-diagnosis information storage unit 152 can store the cumulative usage time of the information output unit 170 and the MTBF of the information output unit 170. Information regarding the MTBF can be stored in the self-diagnosis information storage unit 152 during manufacturing, maintenance, etc., of the self-diagnosis system including the self-diagnosis device 100. Details of the self-diagnosis information have been described above, so they will be omitted here to avoid repetition.

[0071] The detection information storage unit 153 stores detection information detected by the information detection unit 140 from information output unit 170 in accordance with the self-diagnosis information, along with the detection time and the identification information of the information output unit 170. Additionally, if necessary, a degradation curve based on the output information of the information output unit 170 may be stored in advance. The degradation curve may include information such as the degradation rate of the output information intensity and the degradation rate of the output information response speed, and may be used to predict failures of the information output unit 170.

[0072] The self-diagnostic device 100 according to this embodiment may further include a transmitting unit (not shown) that transmits abnormal information to an external device wirelessly or via a wired connection. The transmitting unit can transmit abnormal information to an external electronic device wirelessly via so-called mobile communication. Alternatively, it may perform wireless communication based on at least one short-range wireless communication standard such as wireless LAN or Bluetooth®. Or, the transmitting unit may communicate with the outside by connecting via a cable (e.g., USB cable, optical cable). With such a configuration, if the user does not voluntarily repair the information output unit 170 that has malfunctioned within an appropriate period, it becomes possible for an external electronic device to notify the user of a message prompting repair via the normal information output unit 170.

[0073] The destination of the transmission unit may be, for example, a computer located in the cloud, a mobile phone carried by the user, a PHS phone, a smartphone, a personal digital assistant, or other electronic device used by the user. Furthermore, the abnormal information may be configured to be output when the user accesses the computer or electronic device. With such a configuration, for example, when the user accesses their electronic device after ending the operation of the mobile vehicle, they can rediscover that there is an information output unit 170 that needs repair.

[0074] According to the above configuration, it becomes possible to provide a self-diagnostic device and self-diagnostic system that diagnoses at an appropriate time whether the information output unit 170 can output information normally when it should. Furthermore, even if immediate repair is not possible, by accessing an external computer or a user-operated electronic device, the user can be reminded that there is an information output unit 170 that needs repair, thus preventing them from forgetting about it.

[0075] (Examples of operation of self-diagnostic devices and self-diagnostic systems) Next, referring to Figure 3, an example of the operation of the self-diagnostic device 100 and self-diagnostic system 400 shown in Figure 1 will be explained using a flowchart.

[0076] In step S301, the self-diagnosis start detection unit 111 detects whether or not it is time to start the self-diagnosis. Details regarding the timing of starting the self-diagnosis have been described above and will be omitted here. If it is time to start the self-diagnosis (step S301: YES), the self-diagnosis device 100 proceeds to step S302. If it is not time to start the self-diagnosis (step S301: NO), the self-diagnosis device 100 repeats step S301.

[0077] In step S302, the self-diagnosis control unit 112, having received a self-diagnosis start signal from the self-diagnosis start detection unit 111, executes the following process. If the self-diagnosis start signal includes identification information for the information output unit 170, the self-diagnosis control unit 112 reads the self-diagnosis information for the information output unit 170 indicated by the identification information from the self-diagnosis information storage unit 152. If the self-diagnosis start signal does not include identification information for the information output unit 170, the self-diagnosis information is read from the self-diagnosis information storage unit 152 in order from the information output unit 170 with the largest cumulative usage time, or in order from the information output unit 170 with the smallest MTBF. For information output units 170 with the same cumulative usage time / MTBF, it is preferable to execute the self-diagnosis process starting with the information output unit 170 with the smallest MTBF, but the order of self-diagnosis processing may be predetermined, such as prioritizing the information output unit 170 with the highest usage frequency. The order in which self-diagnosis is performed can also be predetermined by the self-diagnosis device 100. Next, the self-diagnosis device 100 proceeds to step S303.

[0078] In step S303, the self-diagnosis control unit 112 outputs the read self-diagnosis information to the self-diagnosis information conversion unit 120. The self-diagnosis information is output from the drive unit 160, which is the subject of the self-diagnosis, to the information output unit 170, which is the subject of the self-diagnosis, via the self-diagnosis information conversion unit 120. If the information output unit 170 outputs information corresponding to the self-diagnosis information as output information, the information detection unit 140 detects this output information and outputs it as detection information. In addition, the detection information is converted into a digital signal by the detection information conversion unit 130 as needed. Next, the self-diagnosis device 100 proceeds to step S304.

[0079] In step S304, the judgment timing determination unit 113 determines the timing for the abnormality determination unit 114 to compare the self-diagnosis information and the detection information. If the self-diagnosis information is a pulse pattern, the judgment timing determination unit 113 determines the timing so that the comparison process is executed in the abnormality determination unit 114 at the timing corresponding to the pulse pattern, and outputs the determined timing to the abnormality determination unit 114. For example, the judgment timing determination unit 113 can output a rectangular wave window of timing corresponding to the pulse to the abnormality determination unit 114. In addition, the judgment timing determination unit 113 can also notify the abnormality determination unit 114 of the start timing and end timing of the self-diagnosis information, taking into account the delay time of the signal transmission system for each information output unit 170. Next, the self-diagnosis device 100 proceeds to step S305.

[0080] In step S305, the abnormality determination unit 114 compares the self-diagnosis information with the detection information and generates abnormality information if there is an abnormality in the drive unit 160 and the information output unit 170 that were the subject of the self-diagnosis. The abnormality determination unit 114 determines the time, duration, and weighting for the comparison process from the timing received from the determination timing determination unit 113 and the pattern of the self-diagnosis information. If the self-diagnosis information has meaning in terms of a specific frequency and the magnitude of that specific frequency, the determination timing determination unit 113 may perform frequency analysis such as FFT between the start timing and end timing of the comparison process in order to identify the specific frequency. If the start timing and end timing of the comparison process match the information output start timing and information output end timing of the information output unit 170, the abnormality determination unit 114 can accurately identify the specific frequency. Furthermore, by weighting the period between the start timing and end timing of the comparison process using a window function, it is possible to reduce the error in the specific frequency due to timing discrepancies. In addition, the specific frequency can also be compared using a digital comparator. Furthermore, there may be multiple pulses having a specific frequency component, and multiple pulses may be represented by frequencies different from that specific frequency. In this case, the abnormality determination unit 114 can also perform FFT processing or calculation processing of the pulse time interval for the multiple pulses and perform comparison processing. Details have been described above, so the explanation will be omitted. If the difference between the self-diagnosis information and the detection information exceeds a predetermined range as a result of the comparison processing, the abnormality determination unit 114 generates abnormality information. The abnormality determination unit 114 stores the detection information in the detection information storage unit 153 in association with the identification information of the information output unit 170 that performed the self-diagnosis and the time information of the comparison processing. Next, the self-diagnosis device 100 proceeds to step S306.

[0081] In step S306, if the abnormality determination unit 114 generates abnormality information (step S306: YES), the process proceeds to step S307. If the abnormality determination unit 114 does not generate abnormality information (step S306: NO), the process proceeds to step S309.

[0082] In step S307, the abnormality determination unit 114 outputs the generated abnormality information from the information output unit 170 that has already been determined to be operating normally after self-diagnosis processing. If no normally operating information output unit 170 is found, the self-diagnosis device 100 may perform a process to find a normally operating information output unit 170. The self-diagnosis device 100 can also wirelessly output the generated abnormality information to an external computer or a user-use electronic device carried by the user. Next, the self-diagnosis device 100 proceeds to step S308.

[0083] In step S308, the self-diagnosis start detection unit 111 determines whether the power to the electronic control unit, including the self-diagnosis device 100, has been turned off. If the power has been turned off (step S308: YES), the self-diagnosis device 100 terminates the self-diagnosis process. If the power has not been turned off (step S308: NO), the self-diagnosis device 100 proceeds to step S309.

[0084] In step S309, the self-diagnostic device 100 determines whether there are any remaining information output units 170 that should continue performing self-diagnosis. If there are no remaining information output units 170 that should continue performing self-diagnosis (step S309: YES), the self-diagnostic device 100 returns to step S301. If there are still information output units 170 that should continue performing self-diagnosis (step S309: NO), the self-diagnostic device 100 proceeds to step S303.

[0085] According to the above process, it becomes possible to provide a self-diagnostic device and self-diagnostic system that diagnoses at an appropriate time whether the information output unit 170 can output information normally when it should. Furthermore, even if immediate repair is not possible, the user can be reminded that there is an information output unit 170 that needs repair from an external computer or an electronic device used by the user, thus preventing the user from forgetting about it.

[0086] (Example of arrangement of information output unit and information detection unit) Figures 4A, 4B, and 4C are schematic diagrams showing examples of the arrangement of the information output unit 170 and the information detection unit 140.

[0087] Figure 4A shows an example in which an information detection unit 140, which is a sound collection device such as a microphone, is arranged for two information output units 170, where the information output unit 170 is a device that outputs auditory information such as a speaker. If the output information of the first speaker 170a and the output information of the second speaker 170b are output at different times, or if the frequency components of the output information are different, it becomes possible to output detection information with a single information detection unit 140 such as a microphone.

[0088] Figure 4B shows an example in which an information detection unit 140, such as an acceleration sensor, is arranged between two information output units 170, where the information output unit 170 is a device that outputs auditory information such as a speaker. The third speaker 170c and the acceleration sensor are connected via a first vibration transmission medium 180c made of metal or the like. The fourth speaker 170d and the acceleration sensor are connected via a second vibration transmission medium 180d made of metal or the like. The first vibration transmission medium 180c and the second vibration transmission medium 180d are sometimes collectively referred to as the vibration transmission medium 180. With the above configuration, the frequency components output from the speakers are efficiently transmitted to the information detection unit 140, making it possible to improve the signal-to-noise ratio. If the output information from the third speaker 170c and the output information from the fourth speaker 170d are output at different times, or if the frequency components of the output information are different, it becomes possible to output detection information with a single information detection unit 140 such as an acceleration sensor.

[0089] Figure 4C is a schematic diagram showing a case where the information output unit 170 is a device that outputs visual information such as a light source, and a dimming device 220 is installed between the information output unit 170, the information detection unit 140, and the user's line of sight. When the information output unit 170 is subject to self-diagnosis processing, the transmittance of the dimming device 220 is reduced, and when the information output unit 170 is not subject to self-diagnosis processing, the transmittance of the dimming device 220 is increased. With this configuration, it is possible to perform self-diagnosis processing without the user noticing. In addition, if the information output unit 170 is a display, it is also possible to mount the dimming device 220 so as to cover the front of the display.

[0090] (Specific example when a transmitting unit is included) In the above embodiment, the transmitting unit was not specifically illustrated, but Figure 5 shows a network configuration including a self-diagnostic system with a transmitting unit. As shown in Figure 5, the self-diagnostic system 400 is mounted on the mobile body 500, which is the object to be controlled, and includes a self-diagnostic device 100. The self-diagnostic device 100 further includes a transmitting unit 190.

[0091] The transmitter 190 can communicate with the outside of the self-diagnosis system 400 using so-called mobile communication, and can wirelessly transmit abnormal information to external electronic devices. Furthermore, the transmitter 190 can also perform wireless communication based on short-range wireless communication standards such as Wi-Fi and Bluetooth (registered trademark).

[0092] Mobile 500 may be a regular vehicle, or a means of transportation used in MaaS (Mobility as a Service) (such as a taxi, bus, train, or shared car). Furthermore, Mobile 500 may be a mobile vehicle (vehicle, bicycle, or motorcycle) used by a company that provides last-mile delivery for packages, or it may be a mobility scooter used by the elderly, or an automated guided vehicle used to move around inside a factory.

[0093] If the abnormality detection unit 114 determines through self-diagnosis that there is an abnormality in the information output unit 170, it may output abnormality information to the information output unit 170 that has been diagnosed as operating normally, and may also transmit the abnormality information to the outside of the self-diagnosis system 400 via the transmission unit 190. In particular, if no information output unit 170 that is operating normally is found, the abnormality detection unit 114 transmits abnormality information to the outside of the self-diagnosis system 400 via the transmission unit 190.

[0094] For example, let's consider a case where the self-diagnosis system 400 is installed in a mobile vehicle 500 of a last-mile delivery company. When the abnormality detection unit 114 determines through self-diagnosis that there is an abnormality in the information output unit 170, it transmits abnormality information via the transmission unit 190 to the mobile terminal (smartphone, smartwatch) 510 of the user riding in the mobile vehicle 500. The abnormality detection unit 114 can also transmit abnormality information to other mobile vehicles (vehicles, bicycles, motorcycles) 520 of the same delivery company that are traveling around the mobile vehicle 500 by performing vehicle-to-vehicle communication via the transmission unit 190. Furthermore, the abnormality detection unit 114 may transmit abnormality information to a management center 530 that manages the operations of the delivery company.

[0095] By transmitting abnormal information to an external source from the self-diagnostic system 400 in this way, even if there is no properly functioning information output unit 170, the abnormality of the information output unit 170 can be notified to users and other delivery companies. In particular, if the abnormality of the mobile unit 500 can be notified to other mobile units 520 of the delivery company or to the management center 530, it becomes possible for other mobile units 520 to take over the cargo that was loaded on the mobile unit 500, thereby improving transportation efficiency.

[0096] (Features and effects according to the embodiment) The features and effects of the self-diagnostic device 100 and self-diagnostic system 400 according to this embodiment are described below.

[0097] The self-diagnostic device 100 according to a first aspect of this disclosure self-diagnoses an information output unit 170 that outputs at least one of the control information of a controlled object 10 electronically controlled by an electronic control device 200, or information requested by a user utilizing the controlled object 10. Preferably, the self-diagnostic device 100 includes a self-diagnostic control unit 112 that outputs predetermined self-diagnostic information to the information output unit 170, and an information detection unit 140 that outputs the detection result of the output information output from the information output unit 170 in accordance with the self-diagnostic information as detection information. Preferably, the self-diagnostic device 100 also includes an abnormality determination unit 114 that compares the self-diagnostic information and the detection information during a predetermined synchronization window period, and determines that an abnormality exists in the information output unit 170 if the difference information of the comparison results exceeds a predetermined range information, and outputs abnormality information.

[0098] With the above configuration, it becomes possible to diagnose in advance, at an appropriate time, whether the information output unit can output information correctly when it should.

[0099] The self-diagnostic device 100 according to a second aspect of the present disclosure preferably further comprises a determination timing unit 113. The determination timing unit 113 preferably determines in advance the timing to start a synchronization window period in synchronization with the timing at which self-diagnostic information is output from the self-diagnostic control unit 112, detection information is input to the abnormality determination unit 114, and the abnormality determination unit 114 starts the comparison.

[0100] According to the above configuration, it becomes possible to synchronize and compare self-diagnostic information and detection information, thereby suppressing the occurrence of temporal discrepancies in the comparison targets. Therefore, for example, if frequency information is included in both the self-diagnostic information and the detection information, and this frequency information is the target of comparison, it becomes possible to accurately extract the frequency components to be compared. Since the start timing of the self-diagnostic information and the detection information can be matched, the accuracy of anomaly detection can be improved.

[0101] In the third aspect of this disclosure, the weighting of the self-diagnostic information and detection information compared at the start and end of the synchronization window period of the self-diagnostic device 100 is preferably smaller than the weighting of the self-diagnostic information and detection information compared in the middle of the synchronization window period.

[0102] With the above configuration, even if there is a slight discrepancy in the start and end timings of the self-diagnostic information and detection information being compared, it becomes possible to reduce the impact of the discrepancy and improve the accuracy of anomaly detection.

[0103] The predetermined range information of the self-diagnostic device 100 according to the fourth aspect of this disclosure is preferably the range of influence of the detection information that arises from the variation between the pattern information indicated by the self-diagnostic information and the pattern information indicated by the detection information. Furthermore, it is preferable that this variation is the variation from the theoretical value under specific conditions of the characteristics of the transmission system between the self-diagnostic information and the detection information.

[0104] According to the above configuration, when the detection information to be compared is from an information output unit 170 that is functioning normally, it becomes possible to reduce the probability of mistakenly determining that the transmission system of the information output unit 170 is abnormal.

[0105] The self-diagnostic device 100 according to a fifth aspect of this disclosure preferably further comprises a self-diagnostic start detection unit 111 that outputs a self-diagnostic start signal instructing the self-diagnostic control unit 112 to output self-diagnostic information. The self-diagnostic start detection unit 111 preferably outputs the self-diagnostic start signal to the self-diagnostic control unit at a predetermined timing.

[0106] With the above configuration, it becomes possible to diagnose in advance, at an appropriate time, whether the information output unit 170 can output information correctly when it should.

[0107] In the self-diagnosis device 100 according to the sixth aspect of this disclosure, the self-diagnosis start detection unit 111 preferably outputs a self-diagnosis start signal to the self-diagnosis control unit 112 at the timing when power is turned on to the electronic control unit 200 and the self-diagnosis device 100.

[0108] With the above configuration, self-diagnostic processing becomes possible when the electronic control unit 200 and the self-diagnostic device 100 are started up, so that self-diagnostic processing can be properly executed before the user performs any necessary operations.

[0109] In the seventh aspect of this disclosure, the self-diagnostic device 100 preferably performs self-diagnostic processing when power is supplied to the electronic control unit 200 and the self-diagnostic device 100, and at least one of the following timings: before the start of the initialization process of the electronic control unit 200, during the process, or immediately after its completion.

[0110] With the above configuration, self-diagnostic processing becomes possible during the initialization process of the electronic control unit 200 and the self-diagnostic device 100, so that self-diagnostic processing can be properly executed before the user performs any necessary operations.

[0111] In the self-diagnostic device 100 according to the eighth aspect of this disclosure, it is preferable that the self-diagnostic processing of other information output units 170 is performed while information is being output from the information output unit 170. That is, it is preferable that the self-diagnostic start detection unit 111 outputs a self-diagnostic start signal to the self-diagnostic control unit 112 while information is being output from the information output unit 170.

[0112] With the above configuration, the self-diagnosis process can be executed at the time when information such as control information of the controlled object is output, making it possible to execute the self-diagnosis process while the user's attention is not focused on the information output unit 170 that is the target of the self-diagnosis.

[0113] In the self-diagnostic device 100 according to the ninth aspect of this disclosure, it is preferable that the self-diagnostic processing of the information output unit 170 is performed before the output processing is performed, which outputs information related to the control of the controlled object 10 or information requested by the user from the information output unit 170. That is, it is preferable that the self-diagnostic start detection unit 111 outputs a self-diagnostic start signal to the self-diagnostic control unit 112 before the above information is output from the information output unit 170.

[0114] With the above configuration, a self-diagnosis is always performed before using the information output unit 170. Therefore, if there is an abnormality in the output system using the information output unit 170, the user will be able to recognize the abnormality at an appropriate time.

[0115] In the self-diagnosis device 100 according to the tenth aspect of this disclosure, it is preferable to perform the following processing when the noise component of the detection information is greater than or equal to a predetermined value. That is, it is preferable not to perform the self-diagnosis processing if the noise component output from the information detection unit 140 when no self-diagnosis information is output, with respect to the signal component of the detection information detected in correspondence with the self-diagnosis information, is greater than or equal to a predetermined value. That is, in the above case, it is preferable that the self-diagnosis start detection unit 111 does not output a self-diagnosis start signal to the self-diagnosis control unit 112.

[0116] With the above configuration, by controlling the system so that self-diagnosis processing is not performed when the noise component of the detected information exceeds a predetermined value, it becomes possible to appropriately determine whether or not there is an abnormality in the output system of the information output unit 170.

[0117] In the self-diagnosis device 100 according to the eleventh aspect of this disclosure, it is preferable that the self-diagnosis start detection unit 111 of the self-diagnosis device 100 does not output a self-diagnosis start signal to the self-diagnosis control unit 112 if the amount of change in sensor information output from the sensor unit 210 of the controlled object controlled by the electronic control unit 200 exceeds a predetermined range.

[0118] With the above configuration, when a situation arises that requires the user's attention, the system will not execute the self-diagnostic process and will not output any abnormal information resulting from the self-diagnostic process, thereby prompting the user to take appropriate action.

[0119] In the self-diagnosis device 100 according to the twelfth aspect of this disclosure, it is preferable that the self-diagnosis start detection unit 111 of the self-diagnosis device 100 does not output a self-diagnosis start signal to the self-diagnosis control unit 112 when the controlled object 10 is a vehicle and sensor information indicating that the vehicle is turning on a winding road or a bend is received, or sensor information indicating that the vehicle is approaching an intersection.

[0120] According to the above configuration, when a situation arises that requires the user's attention, the system will not perform self-diagnostic processing and will not output abnormal information from the self-diagnostic processing, thereby prompting the user to drive appropriately.

[0121] The self-diagnostic information of the self-diagnostic device 100 according to the thirteenth aspect of this disclosure is preferably information that has been processed so that the output information of the information output unit 170 is not perceived by the user.

[0122] With the above configuration, the self-diagnostic device 100 can perform its self-diagnostic process without the user's knowledge, allowing the self-diagnostic device 100 to perform the self-diagnostic process at any appropriate time.

[0123] In the case where the information output unit 170 of the self-diagnostic device 100 according to the 14th aspect of this disclosure is a device that outputs auditory information, it is preferable that the self-diagnostic information is information that instructs the information output unit 170 to output frequencies lower or higher than the human audible frequency range.

[0124] With the above configuration, the self-diagnostic device 100 can perform its self-diagnostic process without being asked by the user, and the self-diagnostic device 100 can perform its self-diagnostic process at any appropriate time.

[0125] In the case where the information output unit 170 of the self-diagnostic device 100 according to the 15th aspect of this disclosure is a device that outputs visual information, it is preferable that the self-diagnostic information is information that instructs the information output unit to output light of at least some wavelengths of light in the wavelength band included in the visual information.

[0126] According to the above configuration, depending on the type of light source, it may be difficult to set the wavelength of the light source outside the visible light wavelength band. Therefore, by using light with relatively low visual sensitivity within the wavelength range of the light source, it becomes possible to perform self-diagnostic processing that is difficult for the user to perceive.

[0127] The self-diagnostic information of the self-diagnostic device 100 according to the 16th aspect of this disclosure is preferably information obtained by outputting light in a pulsed manner and processing it to a brightness that does not cause the user to perceive the light.

[0128] According to the above configuration, by outputting light in a pulsed manner, it becomes possible to reduce the effective brightness, making it easier to adjust the brightness of the light source and allowing light that is not perceived by the user to be used for self-diagnostic processing.

[0129] In the case where the information output unit 170 of the self-diagnostic device 100 according to the 17th aspect of this disclosure is a device that outputs visual information, it is preferable to provide a dimming device 220 between the line of sight between the information output unit 170 and the user. It is preferable to lower the light transmittance of the dimming device 220 during self-diagnostic processing, and to increase the light transmittance of the dimming device 220 when not performing self-diagnostic processing.

[0130] With the above configuration, the self-diagnostic process can be executed without the user's knowledge, making it possible to determine whether or not there is an abnormality in the output system of the information output unit 170 without disturbing the user's attention.

[0131] In the case where the information output unit 170 of the self-diagnostic device 100 according to the 18th aspect of this disclosure is a device that outputs auditory information, the information detection unit 140 is preferably a sound collection device. In this case, it is preferable that one information detection unit 140 detects the auditory information output from multiple information output units 170.

[0132] With the above configuration, one information detection unit 140 can detect auditory information output from multiple information output units 170. Therefore, by reducing the number of information detection units 140, the degree of flexibility in placement is improved, and costs can be reduced.

[0133] In the case where the information output unit 170 of the self-diagnostic device 100 according to the 19th aspect of this disclosure is a device that outputs auditory information, it is preferable that the information detection unit 140 is a device that detects vibrations.

[0134] With the above configuration, it becomes possible to use an acceleration sensor or the like for detecting vibration as the information detection unit 140, thereby improving the signal-to-noise ratio and enabling more accurate self-diagnosis processing.

[0135] In the self-diagnostic device 100 according to the 20th aspect of this disclosure, the information output unit 170 and the information detection unit 140 are connected by a vibration transmission medium 180, and it is preferable that one information detection unit 140 detects auditory information output from multiple information output units.

[0136] With the above configuration, the information detection unit 140 can reliably detect vibrations output from the information output unit 170 using the vibration transmission medium 180, thereby improving the signal-to-noise ratio and enabling more accurate self-diagnosis processing. Furthermore, since one information detection unit 140 can detect vibration information output from multiple information output units 170, reducing the number of information detection units 140 improves placement flexibility and reduces costs.

[0137] In the 21st aspect of this disclosure, the abnormality determination unit 114 of the self-diagnostic device 100 preferably outputs abnormality information to the information output unit 170 which has been determined to be operating normally by the self-diagnostic process.

[0138] With the above configuration, it becomes possible to output abnormal information from the normally functioning information output unit 170, thus making it possible to more reliably inform the user of abnormal information. Furthermore, since a dedicated configuration for outputting abnormal information is not required, it becomes possible to miniaturize and reduce the cost of the device.

[0139] In the self-diagnostic device 100 according to the 22nd aspect of this disclosure, the abnormality determination unit 114 preferably outputs abnormality information to at least one of an information output unit capable of displaying text information or image information, or an information output unit capable of emitting audio information.

[0140] With the above configuration, users can more quickly and reliably identify the information output unit 170 where a malfunction has occurred.

[0141] A self-diagnostic system 400 according to a 23rd aspect of this disclosure preferably comprises a self-diagnostic device 100 according to any of the first to 22 aspects, an information output unit 170, and a drive unit 160 for driving the information output unit 170.

[0142] With the above configuration, it becomes possible to diagnose in advance, at an appropriate time, whether the information output unit 170 can output information correctly when it should.

[0143] In accordance with the 24th aspect of this disclosure, abnormal information of the self-diagnostic system 400 is preferably transmitted to an electronic device 300 used by the user, and the abnormal information is preferably notified to the user when the user accesses the electronic device 300.

[0144] With the above configuration, abnormal information can be recognized not only within the controlled object 10, but also when the user accesses the electronic device 300. This makes it possible to suppress situations where the timing for repair is missed due to accidental forgetfulness or other reasons.

[0145] The self-diagnostic system 400 according to the 25th aspect of this disclosure is preferably mounted in a vehicle.

[0146] According to the above configuration, the user can be notified of repairs and other processes of the information output unit 170 installed in the vehicle at an appropriate time, thereby improving the user's trust in the information output unit 170 installed in the vehicle.

[0147] The self-diagnostic device 100 of the self-diagnostic system 400 according to the 26th aspect of this disclosure further comprises a transmitting unit 190, wherein the transmitting unit 190 preferably transmits abnormal information to the outside of the self-diagnostic system.

[0148] According to the above configuration, even if there is no properly functioning information output unit 170, the abnormality of the information output unit 170 can be notified to an external party of the self-diagnosis system 400, allowing it to be recognized.

[0149] (Supplement to the embodiment) While embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the disclosed invention is not limited to such embodiments, and those skilled in the art will understand various modifications, alterations, alternatives, substitutions, etc. Specific numerical examples have been used to facilitate understanding of the invention, but unless otherwise specified, these numerical values ​​are merely examples, and any appropriate values ​​may be used. The division of items in the above description is not essential to the present invention; matters described in two or more items may be combined as needed, and matters described in one item may be applied to matters described in another item (as long as they do not contradict each other). The boundaries of functional units or processing units in the functional block diagram do not necessarily correspond to the boundaries of physical parts. The operation of multiple functional units may be physically performed by one part, or the operation of one functional unit may be physically performed by multiple parts. Regarding the processing procedures described in the embodiments, the order of processing may be changed as long as it does not contradict each other. For the convenience of explaining the processing, the self-diagnostic device 100 has been described using a functional block diagram, but such a device may be implemented in hardware, software, or a combination thereof. The software running on the processor of the self-diagnostic device 100 according to this embodiment may be stored in random access memory (RAM), flash memory, read-only memory (ROM), EPROM, EEPROM, or registers. Alternatively, the software running on the processor of the self-diagnostic device 100 according to this embodiment may be stored on a hard disk drive (HDD), removable disk, CD-ROM, database, server, or any other suitable storage medium.

[0150] Furthermore, notification of information is not limited to the embodiments / models described herein and may be carried out by other means, such as physical layer signaling, higher layer signaling, other signals, or combinations thereof. Also, notification of predetermined information (e.g., notification that "X is") is not limited to explicit notification but may be carried out implicitly (e.g., by not providing notification of the predetermined information).

[0151] Each aspect / embodiment described herein may be applied in combination with multiple systems.

[0152] The processing procedures, sequences, flowcharts, etc., in each aspect / embodiment described herein may be rearranged in order to the extent that they do not contradict each other. For example, the description of the method in this disclosure presents elements of various steps in an exemplary order, but is not limited to the specific order presented.

[0153] Input and output information may be stored in a specific location, such as memory, or managed using a management table, and may be overwritten, updated, or appended to. Output information may be deleted. Input information may be sent to other devices.

[0154] The determination in this disclosure may be made by numerical comparison, such as comparison with a predetermined value, by a value represented by 1 bit (0 or 1), or by a boolean value (true or false).

[0155] Each aspect / embodiment described herein may be used individually, in combination, or switched between as needed during execution.

[0156] Software should be broadly interpreted to include code, code segments, program code, programs, subprograms, software modules, applications, software applications, software packages, routines, subroutines, objects, executable files, execution threads, procedures, functions, etc. Furthermore, software is not limited to firmware, middleware, microcode, hardware description languages, or any other designation.

[0157] Furthermore, software, information, etc., may be transmitted and received via a transmission medium. For example, if software is transmitted from a website, server, or other remote source using wired technology, such wired technology is included in the definition of a transmission medium. Wired technologies include coaxial cables, fiber optic cables, twisted pair cables, digital subscriber lines, etc. Also, if software, information, etc., is transmitted from a website, server, or other remote source using wireless technology such as infrared or microwave, such wireless technology is also included in the definition of a transmission medium.

[0158] The information, signals, bits, etc. described in this disclosure may be represented using any of the various different techniques, such as voltage, current, electromagnetic waves, magnetic fields or magnetic particles, optical fields or photons, or any combination thereof.

[0159] In addition, terms used in this disclosure and terms necessary for understanding this disclosure may be replaced with terms having the same or similar meaning.

[0160] Furthermore, the information, parameters, etc., described in this disclosure may be expressed using relative or absolute values ​​from a predetermined value, or using corresponding other information.

[0161] The names used for the parameters described above are not restrictive in any way. Since various information elements can be identified by any suitable name, the various names assigned to these various information elements are not restrictive in any way.

[0162] The terms “determining” and “decision” as used in this disclosure may encompass a wide variety of actions, such as judging, calculating, computing, processing, and deriving. Furthermore, “determining” and “decision” may include, for example, investigating, searching, and ascertaining tables and databases. They may also include receiving (e.g., receiving information), transmitting (e.g., sending information), input, and output. In addition, “determining” and “decision” may include accessing data in memory. They may also include resolving, selecting, choosing, establishing, and comparing. In other words, "judgment" and "decision" can include the act of "judging" or "deciding" on some action. Furthermore, "judgment (decision)" can be reinterpreted as "assuming," "expecting," "considering," or "supposing."

[0163] The terms “connected,” “coupled,” and any variations thereof mean any direct or indirect connection or coupling between two or more elements. This may include the presence of one or more intermediate elements between two elements that are “connected” or “coupled” with each other. The coupling or connection between elements may be physical, logical, or a combination thereof. For example, “connection” may be reinterpreted as “access.” As used in this disclosure, two elements may be considered to be “connected” or “coupled” with each other using at least one of one or more wires, cables, and printed electrical connections. In some non-limiting and non-exclusive examples, they may also be considered to be “connected” or “coupled” with each other using electromagnetic energy having wavelengths in the radio frequency domain, microwave domain, and optical (both visible and invisible) domain.

[0164] In this disclosure, the phrase "based on" does not mean "based solely on" unless otherwise specified. In other words, the phrase "based on" means both "based solely on" and "based at least on."

[0165] Any reference to elements using the designations “first,” “second,” “first,” and “second” as used in this disclosure does not generally limit the quantity or order of those elements. These designations may be used in this disclosure as a convenient way to distinguish between two or more elements. Accordingly, references to the first and second elements do not imply that only two elements may be employed, or that the first element must precede the second element in any way.

[0166] In the above-described configuration of each device, the term "part" may be replaced with "means," "circuit," "device," etc.

[0167] The terms “include,” “including,” and their variations as used in this disclosure are intended to be inclusive, as is the term “comprising.” Furthermore, the term “or” as used in this disclosure is not intended to be exclusive OR.

[0168] In this disclosure, if articles are added through translation, such as a, an, and the in English, this disclosure may include the fact that the noun following these articles is plural.

[0169] In this disclosure, the term "A and B are different" may mean "A and B are different from each other." The term may also mean "A and B are each different from C." Terms such as "combined" may also be interpreted similarly to "different."

[0170] Although the present disclosure has been described in detail above, it will be clear to those skilled in the art that the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described herein. The present disclosure can be implemented in modified and altered forms without departing from the intent and scope of the present disclosure as defined by the claims. Therefore, the descriptions in the present disclosure are illustrative and not intended to be restrictive in any way. [Explanation of symbols]

[0171] 10. Objects to be controlled 100 Self-diagnostic devices 111 Self-diagnosis start detection unit 112 Self-diagnosis control unit 113 Judgment timing determination unit 114 Abnormality determination section 140 Information detection unit 160 Drive unit 170 Information Output Unit 190 Transmitter 200 Electronic control unit 210 Sensor section 220 Dimmer 300 Electronic equipment 400 Self-Diagnosis System 400 500, 520 Mobile Units 510 Mobile devices 530 Management Center

Claims

1. A self-diagnostic device for self-diagnosing an information output unit that outputs at least one of the following: control information of an object electronically controlled by an electronic control unit, or information requested by a user utilizing the object; A self-diagnosis control unit that outputs predetermined self-diagnosis information to the information output unit, An information detection unit detects the output information output from the information output unit in response to the self-diagnosis information, and outputs the detection result as detection information. An abnormality determination unit compares the self-diagnosis information and the detection information within a predetermined synchronization window period, and if the difference information of the comparison results exceeds a predetermined range, it determines that an abnormality exists in the information output unit and outputs abnormality information. A self-diagnostic device comprising: a self-diagnostic control unit that outputs the self-diagnostic information; an abnormality determination unit that inputs the detection information to the abnormality determination unit; and a determination timing determination unit that predetermines the timing to start the synchronization window period in synchronization with the timing at which the abnormality determination unit starts the comparison.

2. The self-diagnostic device according to claim 1, wherein the weighting of the self-diagnostic information and the detection information compared at the start and end of the synchronization window period is smaller than the weighting of the self-diagnostic information and the detection information compared in the middle of the synchronization window period.

3. The self-diagnosis start detection unit further comprises a self-diagnosis start detection unit that outputs a self-diagnosis start signal instructing the self-diagnosis control unit to output the self-diagnosis information, The self-diagnosis device according to claim 1, wherein the self-diagnosis start detection unit outputs the self-diagnosis start signal to the self-diagnosis control unit at a predetermined timing.

4. The self-diagnosis device according to claim 3, wherein the self-diagnosis start detection unit outputs the self-diagnosis start signal to the self-diagnosis control unit at the timing when power is supplied to the electronic control unit and the self-diagnosis device.

5. The self-diagnostic device according to claim 3 or 4, wherein power is supplied to the electronic control device and the self-diagnostic device, and at any of the following timings—before, during, or immediately after the start of the initialization process of the electronic control device—the self-diagnostic start detection unit outputs the self-diagnostic start signal to the self-diagnostic control unit.

6. The self-diagnosis device according to any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein the self-diagnosis start detection unit outputs the self-diagnosis start signal to the self-diagnosis control unit so that the self-diagnosis processing of the other information output unit is executed while information is being output from the information output unit.

7. The self-diagnosis device according to any one of claims 3 to 6, wherein when the self-diagnosis start detection unit detects that an output process is being performed in which information relating to the control of the controlled object or information requested by the user is output from the information output unit, the self-diagnosis start detection unit outputs the self-diagnosis start signal to the self-diagnosis control unit so that the self-diagnosis process of the information output unit is executed before the output process is executed.

8. The self-diagnosis device according to any one of claims 3 to 7, wherein if the abnormality determination unit determines that the noise component of the detection information is greater than or equal to a predetermined value, the self-diagnosis start detection unit does not output the self-diagnosis start signal to the self-diagnosis control unit.

9. The self-diagnosis device according to any one of claims 3 to 8, wherein the self-diagnosis start detection unit does not output the self-diagnosis start signal to the self-diagnosis control unit if the amount of change in sensor information output from a sensor provided on the object controlled by the electronic control unit exceeds a predetermined range.

10. The self-diagnostic device according to claim 9, in which case the controlled object is a vehicle, and the self-diagnostic start detection unit receives sensor information indicating that the vehicle is turning on a winding road or a bend, or sensor information indicating that the vehicle is approaching an intersection, the self-diagnostic start signal is not output to the self-diagnostic control unit.

11. The self-diagnostic device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the self-diagnostic information is information processed so that the output information of the information output unit is not perceived by the user.

12. The self-diagnostic device according to claim 11, wherein, in the case where the information output unit is a device that outputs auditory information, the self-diagnostic information is information that instructs the information output unit to output frequencies lower or higher than the human audible frequency range.

13. The self-diagnostic device according to claim 11, wherein, in the case where the information output unit is a device that outputs visual information, the self-diagnostic information is information that instructs the information output unit to output light of at least some wavelengths of light in the wavelength band included in the visual information.

14. The self-diagnostic device according to claim 13, wherein the self-diagnostic information is information obtained by outputting the light in a pulsed manner and processing it to a brightness that does not allow the user to perceive the light.

15. The self-diagnostic device according to any one of claims 1 to 10 and 12 to 13, wherein the information output unit is a device that outputs visual information, a dimming device is provided between the line of sight between the information output unit and the user, the light transmittance of the dimming device is reduced during self-diagnostic processing, and the light transmittance of the dimming device is increased when not performing self-diagnostic processing.

16. The self-diagnostic device according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the information output unit is a device that outputs auditory information, the information detection unit is a sound collection device, and one of the information detection units detects auditory information output from a plurality of information output units.

17. The self-diagnostic device according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the information output unit is a device that outputs auditory information, and the information detection unit is a device that detects vibration.

18. The self-diagnostic device according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the information output unit and the information detection unit are connected by a vibration transmission medium, and one of the information detection units detects auditory information output from a plurality of information output units.

19. The self-diagnostic device according to any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein the abnormality determination unit outputs the abnormality information to the information output unit which has been determined to be operating normally by the self-diagnostic process.

20. The self-diagnostic device according to claim 1, wherein the abnormality determination unit outputs the abnormality information to at least one of the information output unit capable of displaying text information or image information, or the information output unit capable of emitting audio information.

21. A self-diagnostic device according to any one of claims 1 to 20, The information output unit, A self-diagnostic system comprising a drive unit that drives the information output unit.

22. The aforementioned abnormal information is transmitted to the electronic device used by the user. The self-diagnostic system according to claim 21, wherein when the user accesses the electronic device, the abnormal information is notified to the user.

23. The self-diagnostic system according to claim 21 or 22, wherein the self-diagnostic system is mounted on a vehicle.

24. The self-diagnostic system according to any one of claims 21 to 23, wherein the self-diagnostic device further comprises a transmitting unit, and the transmitting unit transmits the abnormal information to the outside of the self-diagnostic system.

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