Display device

Abstract

This display device according to the present disclosure comprises: a content display section (10) that displays a plurality of content information items showing the travel state of a vehicle and the operation state of an onboard apparatus, and that is displayed so as to be offset from the first direction (D1) center line (4C) of a display screen (4); and two temporary lighting sections (15) that are respectively parallel to two lines (10A) which demarcate the first direction (D1) and which are from among boundary lines demarcating the content display section (10), and that temporarily light when the display of the plurality of content information items is switched.

Description

display device

[0001] The present invention relates to a display device that displays the running state of a vehicle, the operating state of on-board equipment, etc.

[0002] Among conventional display devices that display information related to the running state of a vehicle (such as vehicle speed information, output information, engine output-related information, and motor output-related information), there are known ones that display an image that imitates an existing analog meter. For example, there are known ones that display an image equivalent to the analog meter as viewed from the front, and ones that display an image equivalent to the analog meter as viewed obliquely from a viewpoint offset from the front (see Patent Document 1). There have also been proposed ones that display an image imitating an analog meter alongside a map image or a road image, and ones that also display a graphic image including the vehicle (see Patent Documents 2 and 3).

[0003] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2016-2808 Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2020-189548 Special Publication No. 2007-522981

[0004] As in the above-mentioned Patent Documents 1 to 3, various pieces of information can be displayed simultaneously on the screen of a display device. When the screen of a display device includes a portion where the user can switch the display and a portion where the user cannot, displaying the portion where the user can operate (operable range) makes the display easier for the user to understand. However, constantly displaying the boundary of this operable range may further increase the amount of information, which may make the display more complicated.

[0005] One of the objectives of the present invention, which was conceived in light of the above-mentioned problems, is to provide a display device that reduces complexity and improves the understandability of information. However, in addition to this objective, another objective of the present invention is to achieve effects derived from the configurations shown in the "Mode for Carrying Out the Invention" below, which are not obtainable with conventional technology.

[0006] The disclosed display device can be realized as the following disclosed aspects (application examples), which solve at least part of the above-mentioned problems. Each of the aspects from aspect 2 onwards is an aspect that can be selected as an additional aspect, and each of the aspects from aspect 2 onwards is an aspect that can be omitted. None of the aspects from aspect 2 onwards discloses an aspect or configuration that is essential to the present invention.

[0007] Aspect 1. The disclosed display device displays a plurality of pieces of content information representing the driving state of a vehicle or the operating state of an in-vehicle device, and includes a content display unit that is displayed offset from the center line of a first direction of a display screen, and two temporary lighting units that are aligned along two of the boundary lines that define the content display unit in the first direction and that light up temporarily when the display of the plurality of pieces of content information is switched.

[0008] Aspect 2. The disclosed display device includes a content display unit that is displayed on a display screen and displays a plurality of pieces of content information that indicate the traveling state of a vehicle or the operating state of an in-vehicle device, an operation unit that is capable of switching the display of the plurality of pieces of content information by operation in a first direction and of switching the display of sub-information related to each piece of content information by operation in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, and two temporary lighting units that are aligned with two lines that partition the first direction out of the boundary lines that partition the content display unit, and that temporarily light up when the operation unit is operated in the first direction but do not light up when the operation unit is operated in the second direction.

[0009] Aspect 3. In Aspect 1 or 2 above, the display device preferably includes: a speed meter display unit that displays the speed of the vehicle and has a first vehicle speed region extending in the first direction and two second vehicle speed regions that extend from one end and the other end of the first vehicle speed region in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction and are positioned in the first direction of the content display unit; and a numeric vehicle speed display unit that indicates the vehicle speed in numbers separately from the speed meter display unit and is displayed between the two second vehicle speed regions. In this case, it is preferable that the content display unit is positioned such that its center line in the first direction is located on one side of the center line of the speed meter display unit in the first direction, and the numeric vehicle speed display unit is positioned adjacent to the content display unit on the other side in the first direction.

[0010] Aspect 4. In the above-mentioned aspect 3, it is preferable that the one of the two temporary lighting portions closer to the numeric vehicle speed display portion has a portion adjacent to the number displayed on the numeric vehicle speed display portion unlit. Aspect 5. In the above-mentioned aspect 3 or 4, it is preferable that the numeric vehicle speed display portion displays an icon below the number indicating the operating state of a function related to the vehicle speed.

[0011] Aspect 6. In any of Aspects 1 to 5 above, it is preferable that the content display unit has a content display area in which the content information is displayed, and an indicator display area in which an indicator is used to show the number of windows of sub-information related to each piece of content information. In this case, it is preferable that a center line in the first direction of the content display area coincides with a center line in the first direction of the display screen.

[0012] Aspect 7. In Aspect 6 above, it is preferable that the indicator is displayed extending in the second direction when there are a plurality of windows, the indicator display area is disposed adjacent to one side of the content display area in the first direction, and one of the temporary lighting units is disposed adjacent to the one side of the indicator display area in the first direction. Aspect 8. In any of Aspects 1 to 7 above, it is preferable that the display screen is rectangular and long in the left-right direction, the first direction is the left-right direction, and the second direction is the up-down direction.

[0013] The disclosed display device can reduce complexity and improve the ease of understanding of information.

[0014] 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a display device according to an embodiment; 2 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of a display screen of a display device; 3 is a diagram showing a specific example of a display screen, where (A) shows a specific example in an engine vehicle, and (B) shows a specific example in a hybrid vehicle; 4 is a diagram showing a specific example of a vehicle speed meter display; and 5 is a diagram showing a specific example of a digital vehicle speed display. 6 is a diagram showing the screen configuration of a content display unit, and (B) to (D) are diagrams showing specific examples thereof.

[0015] A display device as an embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. The embodiment shown below is merely an example, and is not intended to exclude various modifications or application of techniques not explicitly stated in the embodiment. Each configuration of the embodiment can be modified in various ways without departing from the spirit thereof. Furthermore, it can be selected or combined as needed.

[0016] The type of vehicle to which the display device according to the embodiment is applicable is not particularly limited, and the display device according to the embodiment can be applied to, for example, a gasoline vehicle, an electric vehicle (EV), a hybrid vehicle (HEV, Hybrid Electric Vehicle), a plug-in hybrid vehicle (PHEV, Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle), etc. A plug-in hybrid vehicle is a hybrid vehicle that can externally charge the battery or externally supply power from the battery. A plug-in hybrid vehicle is provided with a charging port (inlet) for inserting a charging cable that supplies power from an external charging facility and a power outlet (outlet) for external power supply.

[0017] [1. Overall Configuration] Fig. 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a display device 1 according to an embodiment. This display device 1 is a device that displays a plurality of pieces of content information indicating the driving state of the vehicle and the operating state of on-board equipment, and is mounted on a vehicle. Specific examples of content information include vehicle information, driving information, information related to driving support functions, audio information, car navigation information, alert information, and various setting information. Depending on the type of content information, the display device 1 of this embodiment includes information related to the content information (hereinafter referred to as "sub-information").

[0018] For example, the vehicle information includes sub-information such as mileage, estimated remaining mileage, fuel economy, electricity consumption, remaining battery capacity, and inter-vehicle distance information. The driving information includes sub-information such as yaw rate, roll rate, pitch rate, longitudinal acceleration, lateral acceleration, road surface inclination angle, tire pressure, powertrain energy flow, driving direction (orientation), altitude, temperature, and road surface friction coefficient. Information related to driving support functions includes sub-information such as cruise control-related information and traction control-related information. Audio information, car navigation information, alert information, and various setting information may or may not include sub-information.

[0019] Vehicle information and driving information are examples of information that represent the driving state of the vehicle. Meanwhile, audio information, car navigation information, and alert information are examples of information that represent the operating state of on-board equipment. Information related to driving support functions is information that represents the driving state of the vehicle as well as information that represents the operating state of on-board equipment. In addition to these pieces of information, lighting status information, various websites, and the like may also be included in the content information. This information is generated or acquired by, for example, various ECUs such as a vehicle ECU (Electronic Control Unit), a powertrain ECU, and a battery ECU, various on-board equipment, various sensors, and the like, and transmitted to the display device 1.

[0020] The display device 1 is also capable of displaying vehicle speed information and output information. The vehicle speed information is information that indicates the traveling speed of the vehicle. This vehicle speed information is generated, for example, by various ECUs and transmitted to the display device 1, or is generated internally in the display device 1 based on a vehicle speed signal transmitted from a vehicle speed sensor. The output information is information related to the output (power) of the vehicle's drive source. Specific examples of the output information include engine rotation speed, engine torque, engine horsepower (power), traction motor rotation speed, traction motor torque, traction motor horsepower (power), power consumption of the traction motor, and power supply from the drive battery. The output information is generated, for example, by various ECUs and transmitted to the display device 1.

[0021] As shown in Fig. 1, the display device 1 includes an electronic control device 2 and an output device 3. The electronic control device 2 is a computer for controlling the content displayed on the output device 3, and includes a processor (arithmetic processing unit) and a memory (storage device). The processing content (program) of the electronic control device 2 is stored in the memory, and is executed by loading the content into the processor as appropriate. The electronic control device 2 may be formed integrally with the output device 3 (built into the output device 3), or may be provided separately from the output device 3.

[0022] The output device 3 is a device that displays information about the vehicle, and is, for example, a liquid crystal display, an organic electroluminescence (EL) display, a projector, etc. Hereinafter, the display or projector screen on which information is displayed will be referred to as the display screen 4. The information displayed on the display screen 4 is controlled by the electronic control unit 2. The shape of the display screen 4 (the shape of the area in which information is displayed) is not particularly limited, but may be, for example, a rectangular shape that is elongated in the left-right direction.

[0023] All information displayed on the output device 3 is controlled by the electronic control device 2. The output device 3 is placed in a position that is easily visible to the driver, such as in front of the driver (in front of the steering wheel) or in the front center of the vehicle compartment (in front of the driver's seat and passenger seat). An input device that accepts input operations for the content of the display screen 4 may be provided as an auxiliary device of the output device 3. Specific examples of the input device include a touch panel device that detects touch operations on the display screen 4, an input device provided with a keyboard, physical buttons, or a touchpad, a gaze detection device that detects gaze, and a gesture reading device that detects gesture operations.

[0024] An operation unit 5 capable of switching the display of content information is connected to the display device 1 of this embodiment. The operation unit 5 is disposed in a position where the user can operate it (for example, on the steering wheel or in front of the driver). The operation unit 5 of this embodiment is operable in two mutually perpendicular directions, and examples thereof include an input device consisting of multiple switches or a touch panel-like input device. The operation unit 5 is capable of switching the display of multiple pieces of content information by operation in one of the two directions (hereinafter referred to as the "first direction D1"), and is capable of switching the display of sub-information related to each piece of content information by operation in the other of the two directions (hereinafter referred to as the "second direction D2"). In this embodiment, the first direction D1 is the left-right direction, and the second direction D2 is the up-down direction.

[0025] [2. Detailed Configuration] Next, a detailed configuration of the display device 1 will be described. As shown in Fig. 2, in the display device 1 of this embodiment, at least a content display unit 10 that displays the above-mentioned content information is displayed on the display screen 4. As described above, this content display unit 10 is an area in which the display content (content information) can be switched by a user's operation, and information such as letters, numbers, pictograms, images, and videos (moving images) is displayed.

[0026] On the other hand, the display screen 4 also displays information that the user cannot switch the display of (such as the vehicle speed information and output information described above). As such, the display screen 4 always displays a variety of information, and there are some parts where the user can switch the display and some parts where the user cannot. Therefore, in the display device 1 of this embodiment, the parts corresponding to the boundary lines of the content display unit 10, which are the range that the user can operate, are partially and temporarily lit, thereby reducing complexity and allowing the user to easily grasp the area of ​​the content display unit 10.

[0027] Note that the content display unit 10 in this embodiment is displayed offset from a center line 4C (hereinafter referred to as the "screen center 4C") in the first direction D1 (left-right direction in this embodiment) of the display screen 4. In other words, the center line 10C (hereinafter referred to as the "content center 10C") in the first direction D1 (left-right direction) of the content display unit 10 and the screen center 4C of the display screen 4 do not coincide with each other. In this embodiment, the content display unit 10 is offset to the left (one side of the first direction D1) with respect to the screen center 4C. However, the content display unit 10 may also be offset to the right (the other side of the first direction D1) with respect to the screen center 4C.

[0028] The display device 1 has two temporary lighting sections 15 (hatched areas in FIG. 2 ) that are aligned along two lines 10A that define the first direction D1 (left-right direction) among the boundary lines that define the content display unit 10 and that light up temporarily at a predetermined timing. The predetermined timing here refers to the point in time when the display of multiple pieces of content information is switched. In this embodiment, the display of multiple pieces of content information is switched by operating the operation unit 5 in the first direction D1, so the predetermined timing can also be said to be the point in time when the operation unit 5 is operated in the first direction D1. The direction of operation for switching the display of content information with the operation unit 5 and the direction in which the content display unit 10 is displaced from the screen center 4C are both in the first direction D1.

[0029] The temporary lighting section 15 is a section that lights up for a predetermined time and then turns off when a user switches the display of content information. The temporary lighting section 15 may be, for example, a line or strip extending in the second direction D2 in contact with the line 10A, or a strip covering the entire width of the line 10A (the length in the first direction D1). While the temporary lighting section 15 is illustrated as being wide in the drawings for ease of understanding, the width of the temporary lighting section 15 may be set as appropriate. The length of the temporary lighting section 15 in the second direction D2 may be the same as the length of the line 10A in the second direction D2, or may be greater than or less than the length of the line 10A in the second direction D2. The two opposing temporary lighting sections 15 may have the same shape (width and length) or may be different shapes. The lighting duration and illuminance of the two temporary lighting sections 15 are the same.

[0030] The temporary lighting unit 15 lights up temporarily at a predetermined timing, allowing the user to grasp the boundary position in the first direction D1 of the content display unit 10. Note that the temporary lighting unit 15 does not light up when the operation means 5 is operated in the second direction D2. In other words, even if the user performs an operation to switch the display of sub-information related to content information, the temporary lighting unit 15 remains off.

[0031] Next, a description will be given of a specific example of the display mode of information displayed on the display screen 4. The display device 1 of this embodiment has, in addition to the content display unit 10, an output display unit 11, a vehicle speed meter display unit 12, a remaining capacity display unit 13, and a numeric vehicle speed display unit 14.

[0032] The output display unit 11 is a component that represents the vehicle's output by the length of a bar graph drawn therein. The output display unit 11 displays at least a bar graph representing the height of the output, and preferably displays a scale, pointer, numerical value, unit, etc. that serve as an indicator of the length. The output display unit 11 is disposed in an area that includes at least the area above the content display unit 10. The output display unit 11 shown in FIG. 2 is disposed to the left and above the content display unit 10. The overall shape of the output display unit 11 can be modeled after the letter L rotated 90 degrees clockwise (a rotated L-shape). Alternatively, it can be modeled after the shape of a rectangle with the bottom and right sides removed from the four sides that make up the outline of the rectangle.

[0033] The speed meter display unit 12 is a component that displays the vehicle speed. The speed meter display unit 12 has an upper region 23 (first vehicle speed region) extending in a first direction D1, a left region 22 (second vehicle speed region) extending from one end of the upper region 23 in a second direction D2, and a right region 24 (second vehicle speed region) extending from the other end of the upper region 23 in the second direction D2. The left region 22 and the right region 24 are located in the first direction D1 of the content display unit 10. That is, the left region 22 is located to the left of the content display unit 10, and the right region 24 is located to the right of the content display unit 10.

[0034] As described above, the speedometer display unit 12 of this embodiment is disposed at least on the outer periphery of the content display unit 10, in a range including at least the left and right sides and above the content display unit 10. The overall shape of the speedometer display unit 12 may resemble an upside-down inverted letter U (an inverted U-shape), as shown in FIG. 2 . Alternatively, the overall shape may resemble a rectangle with only the bottom side removed. The content display unit 10 is disposed so that its content center 10C is located to the left (one side in the first direction D1) of a center line 12C (hereinafter referred to as the "meter center 12C") of the speedometer display unit 12 in the first direction D1. In this embodiment, the meter center 12C of the speedometer display unit 12 coincides with the screen center 4C.

[0035] The remaining capacity display unit 13 is a component that displays information indicating the remaining capacity of the battery installed in the vehicle. The remaining capacity display unit 13 is located to the left of the content display unit 10, adjacent to and below the output display unit 11. In a hybrid vehicle equipped with a traction motor and an engine with a generator, the remaining capacity of the drive battery (high-voltage battery) is displayed on the remaining capacity display unit 13. The remaining capacity may be expressed concretely using a numerical value or a percentage, or abstractly using the color or shape of an icon. In an engine vehicle not equipped with a vehicle drive battery, the remaining capacity of the auxiliary battery may be displayed on the remaining capacity display unit 13, or the display on the remaining capacity display unit 13 itself may be omitted.

[0036] The numeric vehicle speed display unit 14 is a component that displays the vehicle speed in numbers, separate from the vehicle speed meter display unit 12, and is displayed between the left region 22 and the right region 24 of the vehicle speed meter display unit 12. In this embodiment, the numeric vehicle speed display unit 14 is disposed adjacent to the right side of the content display unit 10 (the other side in the first direction D1). The unit of vehicle speed displayed here may be set in advance according to the destination of the vehicle, or may be set arbitrarily by the user. Specific examples of vehicle speed units include km / h (kilometers per hour), mph (miles per hour), and m / s (meters per second). In addition, the user may be able to arbitrarily select whether to turn the display of the numeric vehicle speed display unit 14 on or off.

[0037] 3A and 3B are diagrams illustrating a more specific configuration of the display screen 4. FIG. 3A is a display example for an internal combustion engine vehicle, and FIG. 3B is a display example for a hybrid vehicle equipped with a motor that performs power running and regenerative power generation. Both display examples include a content display section 10, an output display section 11, a vehicle speed meter display section 12, a remaining capacity display section 13, and a numerical vehicle speed display section 14. Other sections display the time, outside temperature, the name of the driving mode, the shift position, the mileage, etc., as well as icons 17 (hereinafter referred to as "content information display icons 17") for selecting the type of content information and display settings to be displayed on the content display section 10. In the example shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, the content information display icons 17 are arranged in the following order from left to right: a vehicle information icon, a driving information icon, a navigation icon, an audio icon, a driving support function icon, an alarm icon, and a setting icon. Note that the types and number of content information display icons 17 are merely examples.

[0038] 4 is a diagram showing a specific example of the speedometer display unit 12. As shown in FIGS. 3A, 3B, and 4, the speedometer display unit 12 displays at least a bar graph indicating the vehicle speed, and preferably displays a scale, pointer, numerical value, unit, etc. that indicate the length of the bar graph. The left area 22 of the speedometer display unit 12 is an area that indicates a relatively low vehicle speed compared to the upper area 23 and the right area 24. The left area 22 and the right area 24 have their lower ends aligned in the vertical direction.

[0039] In the display example of FIG. 4 , the origin (the scale mark indicating a vehicle speed of 0) of the bar graph representing the vehicle speed is located near the bottom end of the left region 22. As the vehicle speed increases, the bar graph extends upward from the origin along the extension direction of the left region 22. After the bar graph reaches near the top end of the left region 22, if the vehicle speed increases further, the bar graph extends rightward along the extension direction of the upper region 23. After the bar graph reaches near the right end of the upper region 23, if the vehicle speed increases further, the bar graph extends downward along the extension direction of the right region 24.

[0040] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a specific example of the numeric vehicle speed display unit 14. As shown in FIG. 5, the numeric vehicle speed display unit 14 has a numeric display area 25 that displays at least the vehicle speed in numbers. In addition, the numeric vehicle speed display unit 14 of this embodiment displays icons 29A, 29B, and 29C (hereinafter, referred to as "icons 29" unless otherwise specified) indicating the operating status of functions related to vehicle speed below the numbers indicating the vehicle speed. These icons 29 are displayed in a cruise control display area 26. The numeric vehicle speed display unit 14 further has a regulations display area 27 and a conversion value display area 28. The on / off display of the cruise control display area 26, regulations display area 27, and conversion value display area 28 may be preset depending on the destination of the vehicle, or may be selectable by the user.

[0041] The cruise control display area 26 is an area that displays information related to cruise control. Cruise control is a control that automatically increases or decreases vehicle speed without relying on driving operations, and includes, for example, constant speed control on expressways, automatic tracking control for following a preceding vehicle, and control for maintaining a safe distance between vehicles. The cruise control function is an example of the "vehicle speed-related function" indicated by the icon 29.

[0042] 5, there are provided an icon 29A that lights up when cruise control is being performed, an icon 29B that indicates the set vehicle speed during constant speed cruise control, and an icon 29C that lights up when there is a preceding vehicle to be followed and a predetermined inter-vehicle distance is maintained. Icon 29C is turned off when there is no preceding vehicle to be followed, and icons 29A, 29B, and 29C are turned off when the cruise control function is not in operation. When icon 29 is turned off, nothing is displayed in cruise control display area 26, and only the background color of display screen 4 is displayed.

[0043] The legal regulations display area 27 is an area for displaying information about the vehicle speed that complies with the legal regulations. For example, the legal maximum speed and the designated speed for each section of the road on which the vehicle is traveling are displayed in the legal regulations display area 27.

[0044] The converted value display area 28 is an area for displaying a value obtained by converting the vehicle speed displayed on the vehicle speed meter display unit 12 or the numeric display area 25 into another unit. For example, when the vehicle speed displayed on the vehicle speed meter display unit 12 or the numeric display area 25 is in km / h (kilometers per hour), a value converted into a different unit (e.g., mph (miles per hour), m / s (meters per second)) is displayed in the converted value display area 28. The user may be allowed to select any unit to be converted here.

[0045] The numeric vehicle speed display unit 14 displays the largest number indicating the vehicle speed (e.g., "82" in the figure). This number changes depending on the vehicle speed, becoming three digits when the vehicle speed exceeds 100 km / h. When a three-digit number is displayed, there is a possibility that the number may extend slightly to the left of the numeric display area 25. Therefore, in this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, one of the two temporary lighting units 15, which is closer to the numeric vehicle speed display unit 14, is configured not to light up in a position adjacent to the number displayed in the numeric vehicle speed display unit 14. In other words, the temporary lighting unit 15 adjacent to the numeric vehicle speed display unit 14 is linear or band-shaped, extending along the line 10A, except for the portion directly to the lateral side of the number. Note that in the illustrated example, because the upper end of the content display unit 10 is located near the lateral side of the number, an unlit portion (non-illuminated portion) is provided at the upper end of the temporary lighting unit 15. However, the position of the non-illuminated portion is not limited to this, and depending on the position of the number, for example, a non-illuminated portion may be provided in the middle of the temporary illuminating portion 15, so that the temporary illuminating portion 15 is divided into two portions.

[0046] FIG. 6(A) is a diagram showing the screen configuration of the content display unit 10, and FIGS. 6(B) to 6(D) are diagrams showing specific examples of the content display unit 10. The content display unit 10 has a content display area 31 in which the content of the content information is displayed, and an indicator display area 32 in which indicators 18 (see FIGS. 3(A) and 3(B)) indicate the number of windows of sub-information related to each piece of content information. The content display area 31 occupies most of the content display unit 10. The center line 31C of the content display area 31 in the first direction D1 coincides with the screen center 4C of the display screen 4. The indicator display area 32 is an area located adjacent to the left side of the content display area 31 (one side in the first direction D1). The content center 10C of the content display unit 10 is shifted leftward from the screen center 4C by half the width (length in the first direction D1) of the indicator display area 32.

[0047] When there are multiple windows of sub-information, the indicator 18 is displayed extending vertically (in the second direction D2) within the indicator display area 32. The number of windows here refers to the number of sub-information items that can be switched while certain content information is displayed. In other words, the number of windows is the number of display contents (sub-information items) that can be switched by operating the operation means 5 in the second direction D2. The display order (arrangement order) of the display contents (sub-information items) that can be switched by operating the operation means 5 in the second direction D2 is fixed.

[0048] The indicator 18 includes a plurality of dots (circles, squares, etc.) and scales arranged in the second direction D2. The number of these dots on the indicator 18 is the same as the number of windows. For example, in the case of the content information (vehicle information) shown in FIGS. 3(A), 3(B), and 6(B), five circles as indicators 18 are arranged vertically and spaced apart in the indicator display area 32. This example shows that this content information (vehicle information) has five windows. Furthermore, the content information shown in FIG. 6(C) shows that it has three windows. Note that when there is only one window, there is no sub-information to switch, and therefore the indicator 18 itself is hidden, as shown in FIG. 6(C).

[0049] Furthermore, only the circles and other marks included in the indicator 18 that correspond to the order of the currently displayed sub-information are lit. For example, if the number of displayed sub-information items is five (five circles on the indicator 18), and the currently displayed sub-information is the first in the order, only the top circle is lit and the remaining four circles are turned off, as shown in Figures 3(A), 3(B), and 6(B). In this state, when the operating means 5 is operated downward (one side of the second direction D2), the displayed sub-information is switched to the second in the order, and the second circle from the top is lit and the top circle is turned off. In this way, the lit positions of the indicator 18 correspond to the order of the number of switchable sub-information items displayed.

[0050] In the display device 1 of this embodiment, when content information is switched, the sub-information of the content information that is displayed first is set to the previously displayed content, and the indicator 18 corresponding to this displayed content is illuminated. For example, when the content information (vehicle information) shown in FIG. 6(B) is switched to the content information (driving information) shown in FIG. 6(C), the sub-information of the driving information that is displayed first is the (last) sub-information that was displayed when the previously displayed content information was switched from this driving information to another content information. The illuminated position of the indicator 18 is also determined according to the order of the sub-information that was last displayed previously. Therefore, for example, when the content information (vehicle information) shown in FIG. 6(B) is switched to the content information (driving information) shown in FIG. 6(C), the indicator 18 switches from a state in which the top circle is illuminated to a state in which the second circle from the top is illuminated.

[0051] 3A and 3B, one of the temporary lighting units 15 is disposed adjacent to the left side (one side in the first direction D1) of the indicator display area 32. As a result, when the display of content information is switched by operating the operating means 5 in the first direction D1, the temporary lighting unit 15 lights up immediately next to the indicator 18. This allows the user to actively recognize the number and lighting positions of the indicators 18, and ultimately allows the user to recognize the number of sub-information and which sub-information is being displayed.

[0052] The content display unit 10 of this embodiment further includes a title display area 30 in which the title of the content information is displayed, and a dividing line 33 that extends horizontally and vertically divides the title display area 30 from the content display area 31. The display positions and area sizes of the title display area 30, content display area 31, indicator display area 32, and dividing line 33 do not change regardless of the content.

[0053] 6(B) to 6(D), specific examples of titles displayed in the title display area 30 include "Drive Computer," "Energy Flow," and "Various Settings." Content information corresponding to the title "Drive Computer" includes information on average fuel consumption and average vehicle speed as shown in FIG. 6(B), as well as instantaneous fuel consumption, electricity consumption, driving time, estimated cruising range, and the like.

[0054] The heading "Energy Flow" is the title of a diagram showing the state of energy transfer between the engine with generator, the drive battery, and the drive wheels. In the example display shown in Fig. 6(C), the engine with generator, the drive battery, and the drive wheels are each represented by a simple icon, and the state of energy (driving force or electric power) transfer is represented by an arrow. In addition, the contents corresponding to the heading "Various Settings" include an item for selecting the display mode (display style) and an item for selecting whether to turn the display of the numeric vehicle speed display unit 14 on or off.

[0055] It is preferable that the display device 1 be provided with lines that are close to and parallel to each of the two lines that divide the second direction D2 (vertical direction) among the boundary lines that divide the content display unit 10. In the example shown in Figures 3(A) and 3(B), examples of parallel lines include the line 16 that extends in the horizontal direction and is located below the content information display icon 17, and the dividing line 33 within the content display unit 10.

[0056] The line 16 is part of the line surrounding the constantly displayed shift position ("D" in the figure), driving mode ("GRAVEL" in the figure), and total mileage, and is always displayed regardless of whether the content information or sub-information is displayed. Furthermore, as illustrated in Figures 6(A) to 6(D), the demarcation line 33 is also always displayed even if the content information and sub-information change. In this manner, by configuring the boundary line of the content display unit 10 such that the side defining the first direction D1 is illuminated and the side defining the second direction D2 remains unchanged, the boundary position of the illuminated side is more clearly indicated. Note that parallel lines are not limited to the line 16 and the demarcation line 33. For example, the two lines defining the second direction D2 of the boundary lines defining the content display unit 10 may be always displayed, or a line extending in the second direction D2 may be provided within the output display unit 11.

[0057] [3. Effects] (1) The display device 1 of this embodiment includes a content display unit 10 and two temporary lighting units 15. The content display unit 10 is displayed offset from the center line 4C of the first direction D1 of the display screen 4, and displays content information that indicates the running state of the vehicle or the operating state of on-board equipment. The temporary lighting units 15 are portions that are along each of the two lines that define the first direction D1 among the boundary lines that define the content display unit 10, and are temporarily lit when the display of multiple pieces of content information is switched.

[0058] In this way, by using the temporary lighting unit 15 to light up the boundary line that separates the first direction D1 of the content display units 10 that are offset in the first direction D1, it becomes easier to understand the range of the display screen 4 in which the user can switch the display. In other words, the user can accurately grasp the area of ​​the content display unit 10 that the user can operate. In addition, because the temporary lighting unit 15 lights up only when the display of content information is switched, the clutter of the display screen 4, which displays a wide variety of information, can be reduced, and the understandability of the information can be improved. Therefore, usability can be improved.

[0059] (2) The display device 1 of this embodiment can also be said to include a content display unit 10, an operating unit 5, and two temporary lighting units 15. The operating unit 5 can switch the display of content information by operating in a first direction D1, and can switch the display of sub-information related to each content information by operating in a second direction D2. The temporary lighting units 15 are temporarily lit when the operating unit 5 is operated in the first direction D1, but are not lit when the operating unit 5 is operated in the second direction D2.

[0060] In this way, when the user switches the display of content information, the temporary lighting unit 15 lights up temporarily or remains off depending on the direction of the operation, thereby enabling the display to match the direction of the user's operation. This allows the user to accurately grasp the area of ​​the content display unit 10 that can be operated, creates a sense of unity between the user's operation and the screen display, and improves usability.

[0061] (3) The display device 1 of this embodiment includes a vehicle speed meter display unit 12 that displays vehicle speed and a separate numeric vehicle speed display unit 14 that displays vehicle speed in numbers. The vehicle speed meter display unit 12 has an upper region 23 (first vehicle speed region) extending in a first direction D1, and left and right regions 22 and 24 (second vehicle speed regions) that extend in a second direction D2 from one end and the other end of the upper region 23 and are positioned in the first direction D1 of the content display unit 10. The content display unit 10 is disposed such that its content center 10C is located on one side of a meter center 12C of the speed meter display unit 12, and the numeric vehicle speed display unit 14 is disposed adjacent to the other side of the content display unit 10.

[0062] In this way, the content display unit 10 and the numeric vehicle speed display unit 14 are displayed between the left region 22 and the right region 24 of the vehicle speed meter display unit 12, allowing a large amount of information to be compactly organized, thereby increasing information density. On the other hand, high information density can result in a cluttered display, but by illuminating the temporary illumination unit 15 at an appropriate timing, the user can accurately grasp the area of ​​the content display unit 10 that can be operated. Note that by displaying the numeric vehicle speed in addition to the display (e.g., a bar graph) of the vehicle speed meter display unit 12, the efficiency of information transmission can be improved, further improving the convenience of the display device 1. Numerical display is convenient when you want to instantly grasp the vehicle speed because it does not require you to visually estimate the length of the bar graph using a scale or pointer, as is the case with bar graph display.

[0063] (4) Furthermore, in the display device 1 of this embodiment, one of the two temporary lighting sections 15 closer to the numeric vehicle speed display section 14 has a section adjacent to the numbers displayed in the numeric vehicle speed display section 14 that is not lit. This prevents the visibility of the numbers displayed in the numeric vehicle speed display section 14 from being impaired by the temporary lighting section 15. In other words, the area of ​​the content display section 10 can be accurately identified while ensuring the visibility of the vehicle speed information.

[0064] (5) In this embodiment, the numeric vehicle speed display unit 14 displays an icon 29 indicating the operating status of a function related to vehicle speed below the number indicating the vehicle speed, allowing the user to grasp all information related to vehicle speed at once, thereby improving usability. Furthermore, the icon 29 is hidden when a function related to vehicle speed (e.g., the cruise control function) is not operating. However, because the content display unit 10 is offset in the first direction D1, space for the icon 29 can be reserved in advance. Therefore, even when the function is activated and the icon 29 is illuminated, the area in which the icon 29 is displayed (here, the cruise control area 26) and the area of ​​the content display unit 10 can be easily identified.

[0065] In this embodiment, the first numeric vehicle speed display unit 14 may be provided with additional areas for displaying information other than the numeric display area 25, such as a cruise control display area 26, a regulations display area 27, and a conversion value display area 28. By providing these areas, information can be presented in an easily understandable manner in a limited space, improving information density. This also further improves the usability of the display device 1. The regulations display area 27 and the conversion value display area 28 may be added only when such display functions are required in the destination of the vehicle. Furthermore, the cruise control display area 26 is unnecessary for vehicles without a cruise control function. Note that speed units commonly used in a destination location do not necessarily coincide with speed units that are easy for users to understand. Therefore, from the perspective of usability, the conversion value display area 28 may be provided as standard equipment on the numeric vehicle speed display unit 14 regardless of the destination location.

[0066] (6) The content display unit 10 of this embodiment is provided with a content display area 31 in which the content of the content information is displayed, and an indicator display area 32 in which indicators 18 indicate the number of windows of sub-information related to each piece of content information. The center line 31C of the content display area 31 in the first direction D1 coincides with the screen center 4C of the display screen 4. With this configuration, the content information itself is positioned at the center of the display screen 4, thereby improving its appearance. Furthermore, the indicator 18 in the indicator display area 32 allows the user to grasp the number of windows of sub-information at a glance, further improving usability.

[0067] The content display unit 10 may be provided with a title display area 30 and a dividing line 33. In this case, the meaning and subject of the content information displayed in the content display area 31 can be quickly grasped simply by viewing the title display area 30. This improves information density without impairing the clarity of the information. Furthermore, by drawing the dividing line 33 between the title display area 30 and the content display area 31, each piece of information can be clearly separated and presented within a limited space. Furthermore, the convenience of the display device 1 can be further improved.

[0068] (7) In this embodiment, the indicator 18 is shown extending in the second direction D2 when there are multiple windows. The indicator display area 32 in which the indicator 18 is displayed is disposed adjacent to one side of the content display area 31 in the first direction D1. In addition, one temporary lighting unit 15 is disposed adjacent to one side of the indicator display area 32 in the first direction D1 (i.e., on the opposite side of the content display area 31 across the indicator display area 32).

[0069] Displaying the indicator 18 in this manner allows the user to easily recognize the number of pieces of sub-information being displayed. In addition, by arranging the temporary lighting unit 15 immediately next to the indicator 18, it becomes easier for the user to focus on the indicator 18 when the content information is switched and displayed. This allows the user to more reliably grasp the indicator 18 (the number of pieces of sub-information being displayed and the display order of the pieces of sub-information being displayed). Furthermore, because the temporary lighting unit 15 is arranged on one side of the indicator display area 32 in the first direction D1, it becomes clear that the indicator 18 is related to the content information displayed in the content display area 31, making it easier to understand the displayed content.

[0070] (8) In this embodiment, the display screen 4 has a rectangular shape that is elongated in the left-right direction. Therefore, the display device 1 can be easily positioned in a location that is easily visible to the driver, such as in front of the driver (in front of the steering wheel) or in the front center of the vehicle interior (forward of the driver's seat and the passenger seat). Additionally, because the first direction D1 is the left-right direction and the second direction D2 is the up-down direction, the content display unit 10 can be expanded in the left-right direction, which provides ample space. In other words, the content display unit 10 can also be formed in a shape that is elongated in the left-right direction (e.g., rectangular). Furthermore, by arranging the temporary lighting units 15 along each of the two boundary lines that divide the content display unit 10 in the left-right direction, the boundary positions in the left-right direction, which are the longer dimensions, are clearly defined, resulting in a display that is easy for the user to understand.

[0071] [4. Other] The above-described display device 1 is merely an example and is not limited to the above. For example, the above-described display device 1 illustrates the display screen 4 provided with the content display unit 10, the output display unit 11, the vehicle speed meter display unit 12, the remaining capacity display unit 13, the numeric vehicle speed display unit 14, and the temporary lighting unit 15. However, it is sufficient for the display device 1 to include at least the content display unit 10 and the temporary lighting unit 15, and the other display units 11 to 14 may be changed in position or shape or may be omitted.

[0072] The configuration of the content display unit 10 described above can be modified as appropriate. For example, the title display area 30 and the dividing lines 33 may be omitted. Furthermore, the display mode of the indicator 18 does not have to be as described above. For example, the indicator 18 may be configured so that the top circle or the like always lights up when the content information display is switched. Note that the content information, sub-information, content information display icon 17, and icon 29 in the numeric vehicle speed display unit 14 described above are all examples.

[0073] The configuration of the numeric vehicle speed display unit 14 can also be set as appropriate. When the numeric vehicle speed display unit 14 is provided, it is sufficient that at least a number indicating the vehicle speed is displayed, and other displays can be omitted. The position of the numeric vehicle speed display unit 14 is not limited to the other side of the first direction D1 of the content display unit 10 described above, and it may be disposed adjacent to the content display unit 10 in the second direction D2. If there are no numbers indicating the vehicle speed in the first direction D1 of the content display unit 10, there is no need to provide a non-illuminated portion of the temporary illumination unit 15.

[0074] In the above-described embodiment, the first direction D1 is the left-right direction and the second direction D2 is the up-down direction, but the first direction D1 and the second direction D2 may be two directions that are perpendicular to each other. For example, the same effect can be achieved even if the "first direction D1" in the above embodiment is interpreted as the "up-down direction" and the "second direction D2" is interpreted as the "left-right direction."

[0075] The present invention is applicable to the manufacturing industry of display devices mounted on vehicles, and also applicable to the manufacturing industry of vehicles equipped with such display devices.

[0076] 1 Display device 2 Electronic control device 3 Output device 4 Display screen 4C Screen center (center line of display screen in first direction) 5 Operation means 10 Content display section 10A Line dividing first direction 10C Content center (center line of content display section in first direction) 12 Vehicle speed meter display section 12C Meter center (center line of vehicle speed meter display section in first direction) 14 Numeric vehicle speed display section 15 Temporary lighting section 18 Indicator 22 Left area (second vehicle speed area) 23 Upper area (first vehicle speed area) 24 Right area (second vehicle speed area) 29, 29A, 29B, 29C Icon 31 Content display area 31C Center line of content display area in first direction 32 Indicator display area D1 First direction D2 Second direction

Claims

1. A display device comprising: a content display section which displays a plurality of pieces of content information indicating the driving state of a vehicle or the operating state of an in-vehicle device, and which is displayed offset from the center line of the display screen in a first direction; and two temporary lighting sections which are aligned along two lines which divide the content display section in the first direction, and which light up temporarily when the display of the plurality of pieces of content information is switched.

2. A display device comprising: a content display unit that is displayed on a display screen and displays a plurality of content information indicating the running state of a vehicle or the operating state of in-vehicle equipment; an operation means that is capable of switching the display of the plurality of content information by operation in a first direction, and of switching the display of sub-information related to each of the content information by operation in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction; and two temporary lighting units that are aligned along two lines that divide the first direction among the boundaries that divide the content display unit, and that light up temporarily when the operation means is operated in the first direction but do not light up when the operation means is operated in the second direction.

3. A display device as described in claim 1 or 2, comprising: a vehicle speed meter display unit that displays the vehicle speed of the vehicle and has a first vehicle speed area extending in the first direction and two second vehicle speed areas extending from one end and the other end of the first vehicle speed area in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction and positioned in the first direction of the content display unit; and a numeric vehicle speed display unit that indicates the vehicle speed in numbers separately from the vehicle speed meter display unit and is displayed between the two second vehicle speed areas, wherein the content display unit is positioned such that its center line in the first direction is positioned to one side of the center line in the first direction of the vehicle speed meter display unit, and the numeric vehicle speed display unit is positioned adjacent to the other side of the content display unit in the first direction.

4. The display device according to claim 3, characterized in that of the two temporary lighting sections, the one closer to the numerical vehicle speed display section has a portion adjacent to the numbers displayed in the numerical vehicle speed display section that is not lit.

5. The display device according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that the numeric vehicle speed display unit displays an icon below the numerals indicating the operating state of a function related to the vehicle speed.

6. The display device described in any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the content display unit has a content display area in which the contents of the content information are displayed, and an indicator display area in which an indicator shows the number of windows of sub-information related to each of the content information, and the center line of the content display area in the first direction coincides with the center line of the display screen in the first direction.

7. The display device described in claim 6, characterized in that the indicator is shown extending in the second direction when the number of windows is multiple, the indicator display area is arranged adjacent to one side of the content display area in the first direction, and one of the temporary lighting units is arranged adjacent to the one side of the indicator display area in the first direction.

8. A display device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the display screen is rectangular and long in the left-right direction, the first direction being the left-right direction, and the second direction being the up-down direction.

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