Brake pedal function switching method, brake pedal function switching device, virtual driving device, and program

Abstract

[Problem] To provide a brake pedal function switching device that makes it possible to experience the state of an automobile accelerating as a result of mistakenly pressing the accelerator for the brake.　[Solution] In an accelerator pressing state in which a driver is pressing a foot (SD) down on an accelerator pedal part (3a), another person (such as an instructor) uses a function switching unit (10) to switch a brake pedal part (2a-F)-side function to a brake pedal accelerator function state (B-A), and when the brake pedal part (2a-F) (in an accelerator function state) that is in the brake pedal accelerator function state (B-A) is pressed with the foot, the automobile accelerates, thus making it possible for the driver to experience the acceleration state of the automobile while being aware of or having the sensation of pressing down on the brake.　

Description

Brake pedal function switching method, brake pedal function switching device, virtual driving device and program

[0001] The present invention relates to a brake pedal function switching method, a brake pedal function switching device, a virtual driving device, and a program that enable a driver to experience the sensation of accidentally stepping on an accelerator pedal instead of a brake pedal.

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art A device is known that warns against misapplication of the accelerator pedal and the brake pedal of an automobile (hereinafter also referred to as "misapplication").

[0003] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2014-005821

[0004] The above-mentioned conventional technology warns of pedal misapplication by using sound, light, vibration, etc., which allows the driver to feel a sudden increase in accelerator pedal pressure caused by an elastic rebound means. However, if the driver is unable to feel the sudden increase in accelerator pedal pressure (this varies from person to person), does not notice the warning, or the warning device does not activate, there is a problem in that the driver may press the accelerator pedal further, causing the car to accelerate.

[0005] If the driver feels that they have accidentally stepped on the wrong pedal, they can instinctively and instantly determine that the acceleration is due to a pedal misapplication, reset their pedal action, and it is expected that the risk of a serious accident will be significantly reduced.

[0006] The present invention aims to provide a brake pedal function switching method, a brake pedal function switching device, a virtual driving device, and a program that enable a driver to experience the state of a vehicle accelerating due to a mistaken depression.

[0007] In order to achieve the above object, the present invention is configured as follows: [Invention 1] A brake pedal function switching method for an automobile (actual vehicle) having a brake pedal with a brake pedal portion that is depressed with a foot, and an accelerator pedal with an accelerator pedal portion that is also depressed with a foot, or for a virtual driving device (e.g., a driving simulation device, an automobile driving simulator, or a driving video game machine) having the brake pedal and the accelerator pedal, the method comprising: a brake pedal brake function state release step of releasing a brake pedal brake function state (B-B) in which the brake is applied when the brake pedal portion is depressed, and a brake pedal accelerator function state establishment step of changing the function of the brake pedal to a brake pedal accelerator function state (B-A), which is an accelerator function that accelerates the automobile or the virtual driving device. The release of the brake pedal braking function state (B-B) and the formation of the brake pedal accelerator function state (B-A) include a form in which the release of the brake pedal braking function state (B-B) immediately results in the formation of the brake pedal accelerator function state (B-A), a form in which the formation of the brake pedal accelerator function state (B-A) is completed after the release of the brake pedal braking function state (B-B), and a mechanical mechanism form in which the release transition process of the brake pedal braking function state (B-B) and the formation process of the brake pedal accelerator function state (B-A) overlap for a period of time. [Invention 2] A brake pedal function switching device for an automobile (real vehicle) having a brake pedal with a brake pedal portion that is pressed with the foot, and an accelerator pedal with an accelerator pedal portion that is also pressed with the foot, or for a virtual driving device (for example, a driving simulation device, an automobile driving simulator, or a driving video game machine) having the brake pedal and the accelerator pedal, characterized in that the device is equipped with a function switching unit that releases the brake pedal brake function state (B-B), in which the brakes are applied when the brake pedal portion is pressed, and sets the function of the brake pedal to a brake pedal accelerator function state (B-A), which is an accelerator function that accelerates the automobile or the virtual driving device.[Invention 3] A virtual driving device (e.g., a driving simulation device, a car driving simulator, or a driving video game machine) characterized by comprising: a virtual driving device main body having a brake pedal with a brake pedal portion that is depressed with the foot, an accelerator pedal with an accelerator pedal portion that is also depressed with the foot, a steering wheel, and a driver's seat where the driver sits; a function switching unit that releases the brake pedal brake function state (B-B) in which the brake is applied when the brake pedal portion is depressed, and changes the function of the brake pedal to a brake pedal accelerator function state (B-A) which is an accelerator function that accelerates or moves the virtual driving device main body; an acceleration drive unit that accelerates or moves the virtual driving device main body when the driver in the driver's seat depresses the brake pedal portion in the brake pedal accelerator function state (B-A); and a forced brake automatic braking operation unit that stops the virtual driving device main body that has accelerated or moved within a predetermined distance range. [Invention 4] A program that causes a computer to execute each step of the brake pedal function switching method described in Invention 1. (Basis) The "instruction unit that issues an instruction to set the brake pedal to accelerator function state B-A" in paragraph

[0012] (paragraph

[0027] of the original application) may be an instruction unit that is executed by an instruction program that instructs switching to the brake pedal to accelerator function state B-A. For example, a configuration may be adopted in which the operating lever 11 and the grip portion 12 are not provided, and instead a function switching unit drive mechanism consisting of a combination of a motor and a worm gear is provided to drive the function switching unit 10 (specifically, the "integrated action forming means 15"), and the instruction unit is configured to establish the brake pedal to accelerator function state B-A by driving the function switching unit drive mechanism by an instruction program. ", paragraph

[0014] (paragraph

[0037] of the original application) that "the instruction unit that issues an instruction to switch (switch) the brake pedal to accelerator function state B-A may be an instruction unit (part of the control unit 27) that issues an instruction program that issues an instruction to switch the brake pedal to accelerator function state B-A."For example, it is also possible to configure the brake pedal function switching device 73 without providing the foot operation unit 30 and the detection means 31, and to configure the brake pedal accelerator function state B-A by driving the function switching unit drive mechanism 29 using an instruction program of an instruction unit provided in the control unit 27." and paragraph

[0019] (paragraph

[0049] of the original application) states, "The main difference between the brake pedal function switching device 73 and the brake pedal function switching device 40 of the third embodiment is that the instruction unit that issues the instruction to set the brake pedal accelerator function state B-A is an instruction unit 7c that issues the instruction using a drive instruction program that issues the instruction to drive the function switching unit drive mechanism 29, ..." From these descriptions, it is clear that the expression of invention 4 is used and that the matters written therein are matters that should be taken for granted.

[0008] [Effects of the embodiment of invention 1] For example, in a normal driving state (depressing the brake pedal portion activates the brake (braking operation) and depressing the accelerator pedal portion activates the accelerator (acceleration operation state) when a driver sits in the driver's seat at a driving school and drives a car (actual car), if the brake pedal brake function state (B-B) of the brake pedal portion is released and the brake pedal accelerator function state (B-A) is set so that the driver does not stand up before depressing the brake pedal portion (for example, the state in which the accelerator pedal portion is being depressed), when the driver depresses the brake pedal portion to stop the car, the accelerator will not stand up. The effect is that the accelerator function is activated and the vehicle or virtual driving device enters an accelerating state. This allows the driver, who feels as if they have applied the brakes, to experience the vehicle's unintended accelerating state (hereinafter also referred to as "brake-pressing acceleration sensation"). By experiencing this brake-pressing acceleration sensation several times, the driver is trained to remain calm and collected and quickly and immediately remove their foot from the pedal without panicking even when the brake-pressing acceleration sensation occurs. This also fosters the driving skill of quickly operating the steering wheel to avoid danger and calmly re-pressing the brake pedal. [Effects of the Embodiments of Inventions 2 and 4] The same effects as those of the embodiment of Invention 1 are obtained. [Effects of the Embodiment of Invention 3] When the driver in the driver's seat depresses the brake pedal in the brake pedal accelerator function state (B-A), the virtual driving device main body accelerates or moves at an accelerated speed. Therefore, the virtual driving device allows the driver to experience the driving experience of accelerating due to misapplication of the brake and accelerator pedal, as described in the effect of the embodiment of Invention 1, and provides effects substantially similar to those of the embodiment of Invention 1. Furthermore, because it is a virtual driving device, the driver can repeatedly and easily experience, feel, and learn acceleration due to misapplication of the accelerator and brake in the brake pedal accelerator function state (B-A) in a short period of time, thereby obtaining the effect of being able to maintain composure without panicking and quickly learn to release his or her foot from the brake pedal.

[0009] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an operation on the accelerator pedal side in a brake pedal braking function state B-B of the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an operation on the accelerator side in a brake pedal accelerator function state B-A of the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an operation on the accelerator side in a brake pedal accelerator function state B-A of the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing mainly a control system of the seventh embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an embodiment of the present invention.

[0010] Examples of the present invention will be described below. However, it is not intended that the present invention be limited to these examples. In the following description of the examples, the same components as those in the above-mentioned examples will be designated by the same reference numerals, and duplicated explanations will be omitted.

[0011] The brake pedal function switching device 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention shown in Figures 1 to 5 has the following features. Here, the description will be given using a vehicle equipped with the brake pedal function switching device 1 used in driving lessons (generally referred to as a "driving lesson vehicle"). [Features of the brake pedal function switching device 1] A function switching device for a brake pedal of a vehicle having a brake pedal 2 having a brake pedal portion 2a-F that is a portion that is brought into contact with and pressed by a pressing foot SD, and an accelerator pedal 3 having an accelerator pedal portion 3a that is brought into contact with and pressed by a pressing foot SD, or a virtual driving device (for example, a driving simulation device, a vehicle driving simulator, or a driving video game machine) having the brake pedal 2 and the accelerator pedal 3 (here, the description will be given assuming that the "driving training vehicle is the real vehicle"), is provided with a function switching unit 10 (in the following description, "accelerating the vehicle and the virtual accelerating the vehicle" will be referred to as "acceleration operation") that releases the brake pedal brake function state B-B (brake side integrated operation state) in which the brakes are applied when the brake pedal portion 2a-F is pressed, and sets the function of the brake pedal 2 to a brake pedal accelerator function state B-A (accelerator side integrated operation state), which is an accelerator function that causes the driving training vehicle (real vehicle) to accelerate (here, accelerating) (in some virtual driving devices, actual accelerating is performed, and in other virtual accelerating is performed (no actual accelerating is performed)), When the driver is in an accelerator depressed state where the accelerator pedal portion 3a is depressed with the driver's foot SD, or when neither the accelerator pedal portion 3a nor the brake pedal portion 2a-F is depressed in a both-pedal undepressed state where the accelerator pedal portion 3a nor the brake pedal portion 2a-F is depressed, the function switching portion 10 can change the function of the brake pedal portion 2a-F to a brake pedal accelerator function state B-A, and when the brake pedal portion 2a-F is depressed with the foot in the brake pedal accelerator function state B-A, the driving school car accelerates, allowing the driver, who is aware or feels as if he or she is depressing the brake, to experience the acceleration of the car. A lateral shaft 17 is provided in a form non-rotatably supported by supports 16a and 16b (fixed to the vehicle body), and the brake function fixed portion 2b, function switching pedal 2a, and accelerator pedal 3 are axially supported on the shaft 17 in a rotational form.The integrated motion forming means 15 includes a lateral mover 18 laterally movable on the shaft 17, a brake function forming operating portion 19 provided on the lateral mover 18 and bringing into operational relationship the brake arm 2b-G of the brake function fixed portion 2b and the brake arm 2a-G of the function switching pedal 2a, which establish a brake pedal brake function state B-B through their operational relationship, and an accelerator function forming operating portion 20 bringing into operational relationship the brake arm 2a-G of the function switching pedal 2a and the accelerator arm 3b of the accelerator pedal 3, which establish a brake pedal accelerator function state B-A through their operational relationship. The brake pedal 2 includes a brake function fixed portion 2b provided with a brake pedal portion 2b-F on the brake arm 2b-G and having a fixed brake function, and a function switching pedal 2a provided with a brake pedal portion 2a-F on the brake arm 2a-G and having a form that can be switched between a brake function and an accelerator function. The accelerator pedal 3 has an accelerator pedal portion 3a attached to an accelerator arm 3b, and the accelerator function is fixed. The function switching unit 10 is provided with an integrated operation forming means 15 that forms a brake pedal accelerator function state B-A. The integrated operation forming means 15 is provided with an instruction unit 7a (operated by a person in this case) that issues instructions to operate the function switching unit 10, which is made up of an operation lever 11 operated by another person (for example, an instructor in the passenger seat of a driving school vehicle) and a grip portion 12 at the tip of the operation lever 11 that is gripped by the other person's hand. During normal driving, the integrated operation forming means 15 is in an operating relationship (hereinafter also referred to as the "operating relationship") in which the brake function fixed portion 2b and the function switching pedal 2a interact with each other via a brake function forming operating portion 19 (an L-shaped rod member) so that they operate together.), and when the brake pedal portion 2a-F or the brake pedal portion 2b-F is depressed, a brake pedal brake function state B-B (the state of FIG. 1(a)) is established in which the brakes are applied, and the establishment of the brake pedal accelerator function state B-A by the integrated operation forming means 15 is such that the brake function forming action portion 19 moves toward the accelerator pedal 3 to release the brake pedal brake function state B-B, and as the brake function forming action portion 19 moves toward the accelerator pedal 3, the accelerator function forming action portion 20 moves and overlaps with and engages with the accelerator side action receiving portion 21b provided on the accelerator arm 3b, so that the accelerator pedal 3 and the function switching pedal 2a are placed in an operational relationship in which they operate as one unit, and when the brake pedal portion 2a-F is depressed, the accelerator is applied (brake pedal accelerator function state B-A (FIG. 1(b))). The brake pedal 2 comprises a brake function fixed portion 2b in which the brake function is fixed (always in brake pedal brake function state B-B) and a function switching pedal 2a in which the brake function can be switched between brake pedal brake function state B-B and brake pedal accelerator function state B-A. The brake function fixed portion 2b comprises a brake arm 2b-G rotatably mounted on a shaft 17 and a brake pedal portion 2b-F fixed to the brake arm 2b-G. The function switching pedal 2a comprises a brake arm 2a-G rotatably mounted on a shaft 17 and a brake pedal portion 2b-F fixed to the brake arm 2a-G. The brake arm 2b-G is provided with a brake-side action receiving portion 2bh in the form of a horizontal hole. The brake arm 2a-G is provided with a communication portion inlet hole 2ah in the form of a horizontal hole, with its opening facing the opening of the brake arm 2b-G. A brake function forming operating portion 19 is inserted in the brake side operating portion 2bh and the communication portion insertion hole 2ah in a form that allows it to move laterally (operation relationship).In the normal driving function state (brake pedal brake function state B-B), in the operational relationship between the brake arm 2b-G and the brake arm 2a-G in which the brake function forming acting portion 19 is inserted into both the brake side acting receiving portion 2bh and the connecting portion entrance hole 2ah, a brake pedal brake function state B-B (brake side integrated operation state (= the brake function fixed portion 2b and the function switching pedal 2a operate as an integrated unit)) is formed in which the brake is applied regardless of whether the brake pedal portion 2a-F or 2b-F is depressed (a state in which the brake arm 2b-G is depressed and moves). When the brake function forming operating portion 19 moves laterally toward the accelerator pedal 3 and disengages from the brake side acting portion 2bh (non-operating relationship form), the operating relationship between the brake arm 2b-G and the brake arm 2a-G is released (= release of the brake pedal brake function state B-B), and as a result of this lateral movement, the function switching pedal 2a and the accelerator pedal 3 are placed in an operating relationship, and when the brake pedal portion 2a-F is depressed, the brake pedal accelerator function state B-A is formed in which the brake pedal portion 2a-F and the accelerator pedal 3 operate together. In a normal driving operation state, when the brake pedal portion 2a-F is depressed, the brake function fixed portion 2b and the function switching pedal 2a are brought into an operative relationship by the brake function forming action portion 19 (movable laterally) of the integrated action forming means 15, thereby forming a brake pedal brake function state B-B in which they operate as one unit; and in a non-normal driving operation state in which the integrated action of the brake function fixed portion 2b and the brake function forming action portion 19 of the integrated action forming means 15 of the function switching pedal 2a is released due to the non-operative relationship between them, when the brake pedal portion 2a-F is depressed, the accelerator pedal 3a and the function switching pedal 2a are brought into an operative relationship by the accelerator side action receiving portion 21b and the accelerator function forming action portion 20 of the integrated action forming means 15, thereby forming a brake pedal accelerator function state B-A in which the accelerator operates.[Formation of brake pedal brake function state B-B (see Figure 1(a))] A communication portion entrance hole 2ah into which the brake function forming acting portion 19 fits is provided in the brake arm 2a-G, and a brake side action receiving portion 2bh into which the brake function forming acting portion 19 moves in and out is provided in the brake arm 2b-G, and the brake pedal brake function state B-B is a form formed by a state in which the brake function forming acting portion 19 fits in the brake side action receiving portion 2bh, and by the accelerator function forming acting portion 20 and accelerator side action receiving portion 21b being in a non-operating relationship state in which the brake pedal accelerator function state B-A is released. [Formation of brake pedal accelerator function state B-A] Accelerator arm 3b is provided with accelerator side action receiving portion 21b in a fixed form on said accelerator arm 3b, with which accelerator function forming action portion 20 overlaps in an operative relationship in brake pedal accelerator function state B-A. More specifically, accelerator side action receiving portion 21b is fixed to cylindrical support portion 21a (fixed to accelerator arm 3b and rotates integrally with said accelerator arm 3b) which is provided in a rotating form so as to rotate about shaft 17 through which shaft 17 passes. Brake pedal accelerator function state B-A is formed when accelerator function forming action portion 20 moves laterally toward accelerator pedal 3 and overlaps accelerator side action receiving portion 21b as brake pedal brake function state B-B is released (state in which brake function forming action portion 19 is released from brake side action receiving portion 2bh). When the brake pedal accelerator function state B-A is achieved, the brake pedal brake function state B-B is completely released (the brake function forming acting portion 19 is completely released from the brake side action receiving portion 2bh) (FIG. 1(b)). If the accelerator pedal portion 3a is considered to be the front side, the accelerator side action receiving portion 21b is located on the front side, and the accelerator function forming acting portion 20 overlaps the back side of the accelerator side action receiving portion 21b, thereby achieving the brake pedal accelerator function state B-A. Even if the accelerator pedal portion 3a is depressed in the brake pedal accelerator function state B-A, the accelerator side action receiving portion 21b simply moves away from the accelerator function forming acting portion 20 without interfering in any way, so that the accelerator operates but no operation occurs on the brake pedal 2 side.It is also possible to omit the support portion 21a and the accelerator side action receiving portion 21b and have the accelerator function forming operating portion 20 overlap the accelerator arm 3b (including a configuration in which the accelerator side action receiving portion fits into a fitting hole (accelerator side action receiving portion) provided in the accelerator arm 3b). [See FIG. 5] When the brake pedal portion 2a-F is depressed in the brake pedal accelerator function state B-A, the accelerator function forming operating portion 20 moves (moves forward) in a rotating form toward the front side (forward in the figure), so that the accelerator function forming operating portion 20 hits the accelerator side action receiving portion 21b in its moving direction (forward moving direction), pushing the accelerator side action receiving portion 21b forward and rotating the accelerator pedal 3 in the depressed side (rotating about the shaft 17), thereby achieving a depressed state. [See FIG. 4] FIG. 4 shows the state in which the accelerator pedal portion 3a is depressed in the brake pedal accelerator function state B-A. When the accelerator pedal portion 3a is depressed in the brake pedal accelerator function state B-A, the accelerator side action receiving portion 21b moves in a rotational form in a direction away from the accelerator function forming action portion 20, and the accelerator side action receiving portion 21b does not press the accelerator function forming action portion 20. Therefore, even if the accelerator pedal portion 3a is depressed in the brake pedal accelerator function state B-A, the brake pedal 2 does not move or operate, and the brakes do not work (do not operate). Even if the accelerator pedal portion 3a is depressed, the accelerator side action receiving portion 21b simply moves away from the accelerator function forming action portion 20 (see FIG. 4(b)), so depression of the accelerator does not affect the brake pedal 2 at all. [See FIG. 2] In the brake pedal brake function state B-B, in the accelerator released state where the accelerator pedal portion 3 is not depressed, even if the accelerator function forming operating portion 20 is moved toward the accelerator side, it hits the side portion 21bs of the accelerator side action receiving portion 21b and is prevented from moving further (see FIG. 2(a)). In other words, in the accelerator released state, the brake pedal accelerator function state B-A in which the accelerator function forming operating portion 20 overlaps with the accelerator side action receiving portion 21b is not formed.This technical idea is to provide a brake pedal accelerator function state blocking portion (here, even if the accelerator function forming operating portion 20 is moved toward the accelerator, it hits the side portion 21bs of the accelerator side action receiving portion 21b and is prevented from moving further) that prevents the brake pedal accelerator function state B-A from being reached when the accelerator pedal portion 3 is not depressed in the brake pedal brake function state B-B. Figure 2(b) shows the accelerator pedal portion 3 depressed in the brake pedal brake function state B-B, where the accelerator side action receiving portion 21b moves forward and the side portion 21bs of the accelerator side action receiving portion 21b does not hit the accelerator function forming operating portion 20. This shows that when the accelerator pedal portion 3 is depressed, the accelerator function forming operating portion 20 can be moved toward the accelerator pedal 3 to achieve the brake pedal accelerator function state B-A in which the accelerator function forming operating portion 20 and the accelerator side action receiving portion 21b overlap. In this state, the vehicle accelerates when the accelerator pedal 3a is depressed, and when the brake pedal 2a-F is depressed, the vehicle accelerates. [See FIG. 3] FIG. 3(a) shows the state in which the accelerator pedal portion 3a is depressed in the brake pedal braking function state B-B, indicating that depression of the accelerator pedal portion 3a has no effect on the brake pedal 2 side. FIG. 3(b) shows the state in which the brake pedal portion 2b-F is depressed in the brake pedal braking function state B-B, indicating that depression of the brake pedal portion 2b-F has no effect on the accelerator pedal 3 side. The accelerator function forming acting portion may be a hole, a recess, or a lower portion of the accelerator arm 3b, and the accelerator side acting portion may be a protrusion. When the brake pedal braking function state B-B is established, the accelerator function forming acting portion may be configured such that the accelerator side acting portion (protrusion) is inserted into the accelerator function forming acting portion or is located below the accelerator arm 3b.The brake pedal portion 2b-F may be omitted, or the brake arm 2b-G may be long enough not to reach the brake pedal portion 2a-F. Alternatively, the pedal width of the brake pedal portion 2b-F may be widened toward the brake arm 2b-G (the brake arm 2b-G may be shortened so that it does not come into contact with the brake arm 2b-G). It is also preferable to not provide the support portion 21a and the accelerator-side action receiving portion 21b. In this case, it is preferable to provide an accelerator-side action receiving portion above the shaft 17 of the accelerator arm 3b in place of the accelerator-side action receiving portion 21b. Furthermore, if the accelerator-side action receiving portion 21b is fixed to the support portion 21a fixed to the accelerator arm 3b, the accelerator-side action receiving portion 21b may not be fixed to the accelerator arm 3b. [Operation and Operation Flow] <Step 1> When the driver depresses the accelerator pedal portion 3a (accelerator depressed state AOF) and the vehicle is accelerating (accelerating operation) (see Figure 2(b) and Figure 3(a)), another person (for example, a driving instructor) grasps the grip portion 12 and moves the accelerator function forming operating portion 20 toward the accelerator pedal 3, setting the brake pedal accelerator function state B-A in which the accelerator function forming operating portion 20b overlaps the accelerator side action receiving portion 21b, and the brake function forming operating portion 19 also moves toward the accelerator pedal 3, releasing the brake pedal brake function state B-B. <Step 2> The driver stops depressing the accelerator pedal portion 3a, takes his foot SD off the accelerator pedal portion 3a, and depresses the brake pedal portion 2a-F. <Step 3> As the brake pedal portion 2a-F is depressed, the accelerator function forming operating portion 20 moves forward (toward the driver), pushing and moving the accelerator side action receiving portion 21b forward, and as the accelerator side action receiving portion 21b moves forward, the accelerator arm 3b integrated with the accelerator side action receiving portion 21b performs an accelerator depression operation, and the vehicle accelerates by depressing the brake (see Figure 5). <Step 4> When the driver releases his / her foot SD from the brake pedal portion 2a-F, another person moves the accelerator function forming operating portion 20 toward the brake pedal 2, releasing the brake pedal braking function state B-B and establishing the brake pedal braking function state B-B, so that when the driver depresses the brake pedal portion 2a-F, the brakes are applied.In an actual automobile (a practical vehicle for driving lessons), a safety device such as an auxiliary brake or an auxiliary handle is provided on the side where other people are present (non-driver's seat), so that if there is a risk of danger due to, for example, braking or acceleration (the driver feels as if he has applied the brakes and experiences an unintended acceleration state of the automobile), the other person can operate or activate the safety device to take measures to avoid the danger. Also, the system is equipped with an elapsed time measurement unit that measures or counts the accelerator state brake depression elapsed time, which is the elapsed time since the brake pedal section 2b-F is depressed in the brake pedal accelerator function state B-A, the accelerator function is activated, or the acceleration operation (accelerated running or virtual accelerated running) is started, a forced braking operation instruction unit that issues a forced braking operation instruction to forcibly apply the brakes when the accelerator state brake depression elapsed time reaches a predetermined elapsed time, and an automatic forced braking operation unit that automatically applies the brakes forcibly based on the forced braking operation instruction. It is preferable that the following steps be executed: an elapsed time measurement step of measuring or counting an accelerator state brake depression elapsed time, which is the elapsed time since the brake pedal section 2b-F is depressed in the brake pedal accelerator function state B-A, and the accelerator function is activated or the acceleration operation is started; a forced brake braking operation instruction step of issuing a forced brake braking operation instruction to forcibly apply the brakes when the accelerator state brake depression elapsed time reaches a predetermined elapsed time; and an automatic forced brake braking operation step of automatically applying the brakes forcibly based on the forced brake braking operation instruction.

[0012] The description of this embodiment is based on the case of a real vehicle, and an example is given in which a "person other than the driver" is riding in the passenger seat, etc. However, the virtual driving device can also be configured so that switching instruction operations by another person are not performed. In that case, the instruction unit that instructs to switch to the brake pedal accelerator functional state B-A can be an instruction unit that performs this instruction by an instruction program that instructs switching to the brake pedal accelerator functional state B-A. For example, a configuration without the operation lever 11 and the grip unit 12 can be provided, and instead a function switching unit drive mechanism consisting of, for example, a combination of a motor and a worm gear that drives the function switching unit 10 (specifically, the "integrated operation forming means 15") can be provided, and the instruction unit can be configured to form the brake pedal accelerator functional state B-A by driving the function switching unit drive mechanism by an instruction program.

[0013] The second embodiment of the present invention shown in Figure 6 is mainly different from the first embodiment in that a brake pedal function switching device 25 is provided that automatically switches from the brake pedal brake function state B-B to the brake pedal accelerator function state B-A when instructed by another person, and automatically switches from the brake pedal accelerator function state B-A to the brake pedal brake function state B-B. [Specific Configuration of Automation] (1) An accelerator depression detection means 26 is provided to detect the accelerator depression state of the accelerator pedal section 3a, a control section 27 is provided to electronically control the operation of the function switching section 10, an instruction operation section 28 (here, a pedal form that another person depresses with the foot of the other person) that allows a person other than the driver (for example, a driving instructor riding in the passenger seat) to instruct the control section 27 to set the brake pedal accelerator function state B-A, and a function switching section drive mechanism 29 ((for example, a linear mechanism such as a rack and pinion mechanism, a ball screw mechanism, or a hydraulic mechanism, or a link mechanism) (here, a rack and pinion mechanism in which the pinion is rotated by a motor)) that pushes out and moves the operation lever 11 sideways to set the brake pedal accelerator function state B-A, and the control section 27 has a mechanism A drive instruction unit 57 is provided to the function switching unit drive mechanism 29, which issues a push movement operation instruction (to set the brake pedal to accelerator function state B-A) and a pull back movement operation instruction (to set the brake pedal to brake function state B-B), and the instruction operation unit 28 and the drive instruction unit 57 form the instruction unit 7b. When an instruction is given by the instruction unit 7b, if the control unit 27 confirms or has confirmed that the accelerator depression detection means 26 has detected an accelerator depression state or a both pedal non-depressed state in which neither the accelerator pedal section 3a nor the brake pedal section 2a-F is depressed, the drive instruction unit 57 issues a drive instruction, and the function switching unit drive mechanism 29, which has received the drive instruction, operates to push out and move the operation lever 11 sideways, thereby setting the brake pedal accelerator function state B-A. The instruction operation part 28 comprises an other person's foot operation part 30 for performing an operation in which another person steps on it with their foot, places their foot on it, puts the side of their foot on it or pushes it with the side of their foot, and a detection means 31 for detecting that the other person's foot operation part 30 is operated with their foot.When the detection means 31 confirms that the other person has, for example, depressed the foot operation unit 30, the drive instruction unit 57 enters a brake pedal accelerator function state B-A formation mode, and if the accelerator depression detection means 26 has detected that the accelerator is depressed or both pedals are not depressed, the drive instruction unit 57 activates the function switching unit drive mechanism 29, pushes out and moves the operation lever 11 laterally, and quickly moves the accelerator function formation operating unit 20 toward the accelerator pedal 3, thereby establishing the brake pedal accelerator function state B-A. When the other person stops operating the instruction operation unit 28 (for example, lifts the depressing foot to release the instruction operation unit 28), the detection means 31 detects this, and the drive instruction unit 57 activates the function switching unit drive mechanism 29 to release the brake pedal accelerator function state B-A and establish the brake pedal brake function state B-B (transition to the brake pedal brake function state B-B). The foot operation unit 30 may be configured to switch to the brake pedal accelerator function state B-A by operation with the foot (for example, by pressing with the side of the knee or the side of the thigh). (2) A brake depression detection means 33 is provided for detecting the brake depression state of the brake pedal unit 2 a-F in the brake pedal accelerator function state B-A, and when it detects that the depressed state of the brake pedal unit 2 a-F is released in the brake pedal accelerator function state B-A, the drive instruction unit 57 issues an instruction to the function switching unit drive mechanism 29 to release the brake pedal accelerator function state B-A and switch to the brake pedal brake function state B-B, and the function switching unit drive mechanism 29 pulls back the operation lever 11 to quickly establish the brake pedal brake function state B-B, so that when the driver re-depresses the brake pedal unit 2 a-F, the brakes are applied. (3) When the brake pedal is in the brake function state B-B, an accelerator depression notification unit 35 is provided to notify others by light that the accelerator pedal section 3a is depressed. An accelerator state notification unit 36 ​​is provided to notify others by light that the brake pedal is in the accelerator function state B-A. A brake state notification unit 37 is provided to notify others that the brake pedal is in the brake function state B-B.The function switching unit drive mechanism 29 is preferably a linear motion mechanism that linearly moves the lateral mover 18, and examples of such linear motion mechanisms include a rack-and-pinion mechanism, a ball screw mechanism, a worm mechanism, a hydraulic mechanism, a link mechanism having a linear motion part, a solenoid mechanism, etc. The function switching unit 10 realizes the brake pedal accelerator functional state B-A through operation by a person other than the driver (for example, a driving instructor riding in the vehicle), and is provided with accelerator pedal depression detection means 5 that detects the accelerator depression state AOF, and accelerator depression notification means 6 that notifies the accelerator depression state AOF based on detection (=detection) by the accelerator depression detection means 5, and the other person, upon confirmation of the notification by the accelerator depression notification means 6, does not operate or activates the function switching unit 10 to realize the brake pedal accelerator functional state B-A (transition to the brake pedal accelerator functional state B-A) while the accelerator pedal unit 3 a is depressed or when both pedals are not depressed.

[0014] The description of this embodiment is based on the case of an automobile, and an example is given in which an "other person" other than the driver is riding in the passenger seat, etc. However, in the virtual driving device, the brake pedal accelerator function state B-A does not necessarily require an instruction operation by another person. In this case, the instruction unit that gives an instruction to change the brake pedal to the accelerator function state B-A (switching) the brake pedal to the accelerator function state B-A may be an instruction unit (part of the control unit 27) that performs this by an instruction program that instructs the brake pedal to the accelerator function state B-A. For example, a configuration may be adopted in which the other person's foot operation unit 30 and the detection means 31 are not provided, and the brake pedal accelerator function state B-A is established by driving the function switching unit drive mechanism 29 by an instruction program of an instruction unit provided in the control unit 27.

[0015] The main differences between the second embodiment and the third embodiment of the present invention shown in FIG. 7 are that the brake pedal section 2b-F is not provided, the width of the brake pedal section 2a-F is expanded to the location where the brake pedal section 2b-F was previously located, the length of the brake arm 2b-G is set to a position away from the brake pedal section 2a-F so as not to come into contact with the brake pedal section 2a-F, the function switching section drive mechanism 29 is located in the vicinity of the accelerator function forming operating section 20, and the operating lever is a U-shaped (or square-shaped) operating lever 41, forming a brake pedal function switching device 40.

[0016] A fourth embodiment of the present invention shown in Figures 8 and 9 differs from the third embodiment in that a brake pedal function switching device 45 is formed in which the integrated motion forming means 15 is fixed to the brake arm 2a-G as an integral part, and the brake function forming portion 19 is fixed to the brake arm 2a-G as an integral part. The function switching pedal 2a moves integrally with the integrated motion forming means 15. That is, when the brake pedal is in the accelerator function state B-A, the function switching pedal 2a moves toward the accelerator pedal 3 (see Figure 9), and at this time the brake function forming portion 19 integrated with the function switching pedal 2a-G also moves integrally to release the operational relationship with the brake function fixed portion 2b, and the brake pedal portion 2a-F enters the brake pedal accelerator function state B-A.

[0017] The fifth embodiment of the present invention shown in Figure 10 differs from the first embodiment in that the accelerator function forming operating portion 20 is provided at a position between the lateral moving body 18 and the accelerator pedal portion 3a, and in the brake pedal accelerator function state B-A, the accelerator function forming operating portion 20 is located above the accelerator pedal portion 3b, and when the brake pedal portion 2a-F is depressed with the foot, the brake function forming operating portion 19b rotates in conjunction with the accelerator function forming operating portion 20, which presses the accelerator pedal portion 3b, causing the accelerator pedal 3 to be depressed (the brake pedal portion 2b-F is not activated) (Figure 10(b)) (brake pedal accelerator function state B-A). The technical idea is to have the driver experience the acceleration behavior of the vehicle due to the accelerator pedal being mistakenly depressed, and to obtain that sensation, the technical idea is that when the driver releases his / her foot from the accelerator pedal and depresses the brake (though the driver believes that he / she has depressed the brake), the accelerator is activated and the vehicle accelerates. Therefore, various forms of the method are conceivable, and the above-described embodiment of the present application merely shows one example. For example, although not shown in the embodiment, there is a system in which an accelerator mechanism that is not mechanically linked to the accelerator pedal is controlled based on information detected from the depression depth and depression angle of the accelerator pedal, and a brake mechanism (e.g., a hydraulic mechanism) that is not mechanically linked to the brake pedal is controlled based on information detected from the depression depth and depression angle of the brake pedal, and when a brake pedal accelerator function state is instructed, the accelerator mechanism is controlled based on the detection information of the brake pedal, so that the vehicle accelerates as if the brake is being depressed.

[0018] The sixth embodiment of the present invention shown in FIG. 11 differs from the second or third embodiment in that it compulsorily applies automatic braking. The sixth embodiment includes an elapsed time measurement unit 50 that measures or counts an accelerator-state brake depression elapsed time atm, which is the time elapsed since the brake pedal section 2a-F was depressed in the brake pedal accelerator function state B-A, the accelerator function was activated, or acceleration driving was initiated. A forced braking operation instruction unit 51 issues a forced braking operation instruction bin to forcibly apply the brakes when the accelerator-state brake depression elapsed time atm reaches a predetermined elapsed time. An automatic forced braking operation unit 52 automatically compulsorily applies the brakes based on the forced braking operation instruction bin. When the brake function fixing unit 2b is depressed, the hydraulic pressure in the oil line 53 increases, and the brake 54 is activated by the hydraulic pressure. An actuator 55 is provided between the oil line 53 and the brake 54, and the automatic forced braking operation unit 52 is provided in the actuator 55. The brake 54, the actuator 55, and the oil passage 53 form a braking mechanism 46. The forced automatic braking mechanism (automatic braking system) may be of various types (for example, the systems disclosed in Japanese Patent No. 6675896, Japanese Patent No. 4084318, etc.).The control unit 27 is provided with a drive instruction unit 57 that issues a push movement operation instruction (to set the brake pedal to the accelerator function state B-A) and a pull back movement operation instruction (to set the brake pedal to the brake function state B-B) to the function switching unit drive mechanism 29, a detection signal receiving unit 58 that receives an accelerator depression detection signal from the accelerator depression detection means 26 and a brake depression detection signal from the brake depression detection means 33, an elapsed time measuring unit 50 that measures or counts an accelerator state brake depression elapsed time atm based on the brake depression detection signal when the brake pedal is in the accelerator function state B-A from the detection signal receiving unit 58, and a force braking unit that forcibly applies the brakes when the accelerator state brake depression elapsed time atm reaches a predetermined elapsed time. A forced braking operation instruction unit 51 is provided which issues a braking operation instruction bin to a forced braking automatic braking operation unit 52, a pedal depression state detection unit 59 is provided which detects an accelerator pedal depression state in which the accelerator pedal 3a is depressed, or a both pedal non-depressed state in which neither the accelerator pedal 3a nor the brake pedal 2a-F is depressed, and an instruction unit 57 is provided which instructs the function switching unit 10 to switch the function of the brake pedal 2 from the brake pedal brake function state B-B to the brake pedal accelerator function state B-A only when the accelerator pedal depression state or the both pedal non-depressed state is detected. A valve 60 is provided in the oil passage 53 at a position in the actuator 55 that reaches the forced brake automatic braking operation unit 52, and when a forced brake braking operation command bin is generated, the valve 60 is closed to block the influence of oil pressure from the brake pedal 2 side, and on the other hand, oil pressure is applied from within the forced brake automatic braking operation unit 52, causing the brake 54 to operate and stop the vehicle.The mechanism for applying hydraulic pressure from the automatic forced braking operation unit 52 may, for example, include an oil tank with a valve that stores oil. The oil in the oil tank is constantly kept at high pressure by the force of a powerful spring. When a forced braking operation command bin is issued, the valve of the oil tank opens, increasing the hydraulic pressure in the oil line 53 between the valve 60 and the brake 54, causing the brake 54 to enter a forced braking operation state. In the case of a virtual driving device, the switching from the brake pedal braking function state B-B to the brake pedal accelerator function state B-A may be performed automatically. It may also be possible to provide two functions, a normal driving mode and an abnormal driving mode (a misapplication of the brake pedal), so that the mode can be switched between. It is also preferable that the virtual driving device appropriately selects when to enter the brake pedal accelerator function state B-A among the situations in which the brake is applied (so that the same situation is not selected only once). Alternatively, the virtual driving device may be mounted on rails or the like, and when the brake pedal 2a-F is depressed in the brake pedal accelerator function state B-A, the system accelerates (moves with acceleration) for a predetermined distance. The mechanism for accelerating may take various forms, such as a configuration in which wheels run on rails, a configuration in which acceleration is achieved by pulling with a wire or the like, or a configuration in which the vehicle is pushed with a rod or the like. If there is a central control device that monitors and controls the virtual driving device, the central control device may issue an instruction to implement the brake pedal accelerator function state B-A.

[0019] A virtual driving device 70 according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention shown in Figures 12 and 13 comprises a rail 69, a virtual driving device main body 68 that is arranged so as to be able to travel on the rail 69, a base 67 that forms the lower part of the virtual driving device main body 68, a main body box 61 that is erected in front of the base 67 and has a monitor 62 that forms the front part of the virtual driving device main body 68, an acceleration drive device 71 that consists of a plurality of wheels 63 that roll on the rail 69 and a motor 64 that drives and rotates the wheels 63, a steering wheel 65, a driver's seat 66, and a brake pedal function switching device 73. <Brake pedal function switching device 73> The brake pedal function switching device 73 differs mainly from the brake pedal function switching device 40 of the third embodiment in that the instruction unit that issues an instruction to change the brake pedal to accelerator functional state B-A is provided by instruction unit 7c, which executes this instruction using a drive instruction program that instructs driving function switching unit drive mechanism 29, and instruction unit 7c includes pedal section depression state detection unit 59 having accelerator state depression release detection unit 74 and pedal section depression state detection unit 75, pedal section depression state detection unit 75 and brake pedal brake functional state formation instruction unit 76 (which issues a brake pedal brake functional state formation instruction BBin, which is an instruction to switch from the brake pedal accelerator functional state B-A to the brake pedal brake functional state B-B), and brake pedal accelerator functional state formation instruction unit 77 (which issues a brake pedal accelerator functional state formation instruction BAin, which is an instruction to switch from the brake pedal brake functional state B-B to the brake pedal accelerator functional state B-A). The accelerator state depression release detection unit 74 detects accelerator state depression release, which is the release of the brake pedal section 2a-F from depression in the brake pedal accelerator function state B-A, based on the detection signal of the accelerator depression detection means 26. The pedal section depression state detection unit 75 detects the accelerator pedal section depression state, in which the accelerator pedal section 3a is depressed, or detects a both pedal section non-depressed state, in which neither the accelerator pedal section 3a nor the brake pedal section 2a-F is depressed, based on the detection signal of the accelerator depression detection means 26 and the detection signal of the brake depression detection means 33.When the accelerator state depression release detection unit 74 detects depression release in the accelerator state, the brake pedal brake function state establishment instruction unit 76 issues a brake pedal brake function state establishment instruction BBin to the function switching unit drive mechanism 29 to automatically release the brake pedal accelerator function state B-A and automatically set the function of the brake pedal 2 to the brake pedal brake function state B-B. Upon receiving the brake pedal brake function state establishment instruction BBin, the function switching unit drive mechanism 29 operates to move the brake function establishment operating unit 19 toward the brake function fixed unit 2b, thereby establishing the brake pedal brake function state B-B. The instruction unit 7c instructs the function switching unit 10 to switch the function of the brake pedal 2 from the brake pedal brake function state B-B to the brake pedal accelerator function state B-A only when the pedal depression state detection unit 75 detects an accelerator pedal depressed state, in which the accelerator pedal 3a is depressed, or a both-pedal undepressed state, in which neither the accelerator pedal 3a nor the brake pedal 2a-F is depressed. The instruction unit 7c instructs the function switching unit 10 to switch the function of the brake pedal 2 from the brake pedal brake function state B-B to the brake pedal accelerator function state B-A. The instruction unit 7c issues the instruction to establish the brake pedal accelerator function state B-A (brake pedal accelerator function state establishment instruction BAin) at a timing when the driver must depress the brake (operation) (road driving video displayed on the screen of the monitor 62). The scene may be suitably selected by the instruction program from a plurality of predetermined switching timings, or the scene may be determined in advance, or a plurality of scene selection patterns may be provided and the use pattern at that time may be suitably determined and instruction may be given, or a scene may be selected at random.When the brake pedal function switching device 73 is in the brake pedal accelerator function state B-A, if the brake pedal section 2a-F is depressed, the motor 64 is driven to rotate the wheels 63, and the virtual driving device main body 68, with the driver on board, accelerates and drives on the rail 69 for a predetermined distance or for a predetermined time, and then automatically applies a forced brake, which is a forced braking operation, and stops on the rail 69.

[0020] The eighth embodiment of the present invention shown in FIG. 14 differs from the seventh embodiment in that the acceleration drive device and braking mechanism are replaced with an acceleration drive device 78 with a braking function. The acceleration drive device 78 comprises a push rod 80 connected to the virtual driving device main body 68 to push the virtual driving device main body 68 and travel, and an acceleration / braking control unit 79 that drives the push rod 80 to push, brake, and retract. The push rod 80 of the acceleration / braking control unit 79 is typically driven by a motor, and an automatic forced braking unit 82 performs braking by combining the regenerative braking of the motor with brake pads clamping the push rod 80, or by providing a disc rotor on the motor and clamping the disc rotor with brake pads. A brake cushion 81 is provided in front of the virtual driving device main body 68 to catch the oncoming virtual driving device main body 68 and stop it from moving further. The combination of the brake cushion 81 and the automatic forced braking unit 82 constitutes an automatic forced braking unit. In addition, in a configuration in which the automatic braking actuating unit 82 is not provided, braking is performed only by the brake cushion 81, and the brake cushion 81 serves as the automatic braking actuating unit for the automatic braking actuating unit for the forced brake. As another braking method, for example, a shock absorber using the flow of air or oil may be used as the automatic braking actuating unit for the forced brake, or a shock absorber may be combined with another braking mechanism to serve as the automatic braking actuating unit for the forced brake.

[0021] The ninth embodiment of the present invention shown in Figure 15 differs from the seventh embodiment in that the brake pedal function switching device is replaced with a brake pedal function switching device 83. The brake pedal 2 in the brake pedal function switching device 83 is configured without the brake function fixing unit 2b and the function switching unit 10, and detects the operation and state of the brake pedal 2 and the accelerator pedal 3, and controls the driving speed and braking on the road driving video displayed on the monitor 62 by electronic processing based on the detected information and instructions based on the electronic processing. A control unit 84 acquires brake depression amount information, which is depression amount information (such as angle change from a reference position and distance change from the reference position) of the brake pedal units 2a-F based on information detected by the brake depression detection means 33, and performs braking operation based on the brake depression amount information. Also, it acquires accelerator depression amount information, which is depression amount information (such as angle change from a reference position and distance change from the reference position) of the accelerator pedal unit 3a based on information detected by the accelerator depression detection means 26, and performs acceleration driving based on the accelerator depression amount information. The instruction unit 7c includes a pedal depression state detection unit 59 having an accelerator state depression release detection unit 74 and a pedal depression state detection unit 75, a brake pedal brake function state establishment instruction unit 76 (which issues a brake pedal brake function state establishment instruction BBin), and a brake pedal accelerator function state establishment instruction unit 77 (which issues a brake pedal accelerator function state establishment instruction BAin). The accelerator state depression release detection unit 74 detects an accelerator state depression release, which is a release of the brake pedals 2a-F from the brake pedal accelerator function state B-A, based on the detection signal from the accelerator depression detection means 26. The pedal depression state detection unit 75 detects an accelerator pedal depression state, in which the accelerator pedal 3a is depressed, or a both-pedal non-depressed state, in which neither the accelerator pedal 3a nor the brake pedals 2a-F are depressed, based on the detection signal from the accelerator depression detection means 26 and the detection signal from the brake depression detection means 33.When accelerator state depression release detection unit 74 detects (confirms) depression release in accelerator state, brake pedal braking function state establishment instruction unit 76 issues a brake pedal braking function state establishment instruction BBin to function switching unit 85, which is an instruction to automatically release the brake pedal accelerator function state B-A and automatically change the function of the brake pedal to brake pedal braking function state B-B. Upon receiving the brake pedal braking function state establishment instruction BBin, function switching unit 85 switches the function of brake pedal 2 to brake pedal braking function state B-B, which is the braking function. In brake pedal braking function state B-B, a detection signal from brake depression detection means 33 is sent to braking instruction unit 88, which sends a braking signal to running / braking control unit 86, and road driving image control unit 89 controls the road driving image based on the signal from running / braking control unit 86 (detection signal from brake depression detection means 33). The function switching unit 85, which has received the brake pedal accelerator functional state formation instruction BAin from the brake pedal accelerator functional state formation instruction unit 77, blocks the signal to the braking instruction unit 88 and sends the brake pedal 2 depression detection signal as an acceleration signal to the acceleration instruction unit 87, which then sends the acceleration signal to the driving / braking control unit 86, and the road driving image control unit 89 controls the road driving image based on the acceleration signal from the driving / braking control unit 86.

[0022] The tenth embodiment of the present invention shown in FIG. 16 differs from the fourth embodiment in that the function switching unit is a function switching unit 90. The function switching unit 90 includes a brake function forming operation unit 19 and an accelerator function forming operation unit 20, each consisting of a single rod member, on the opposite side of the brake pedal portion 2a-F across the shaft 17 of the brake arm 2a-G of the function switching pedal 2a. The end of the brake arm 2a-G facing the brake pedal portion 2a-F is fixed to an operating lever 41, and the function switching pedal 2a, the brake function forming operation unit 19, and the accelerator function forming operation unit 20 can be moved laterally as a unit by the operating lever 41, which is moved laterally by a function switching unit drive mechanism 29. In the brake pedal brake function state B-B, which is the normal driving state, the function switching pedal 2a is located on the left side in the figure, and the brake function forming operation unit 19 is located below the brake arm 2a-G. When an instruction to set the brake pedal to accelerator function state B-A is given, the operating lever 41 moves to the right in the figure, and with this movement, the accelerator function forming action portion 20 is positioned below the accelerator arm 3b, and the brake function forming action portion 19 moves laterally away from the brake arm 2a-G. In the brake pedal brake function state B-B, the brake function forming action portion 19 establishes an action relationship in which it is positioned below the brake arm 2b-G of the brake function fixed portion 2b (when the brake pedal portion 2a-F is depressed, the brake function forming action portion 19 pushes up the brake arm 2b-G from below) (the accelerator function forming action portion 20 is positioned laterally away from the accelerator arm 3b and does not act on the accelerator arm 3b). In the brake pedal accelerator function state B-A, the accelerator function forming operating portion 20 is positioned below the accelerator arm 3b (when the accelerator pedal portion 3a is depressed, the accelerator function forming operating portion 20 pushes up the accelerator arm 3b from below) (the brake function forming operating portion 19 is located laterally away from the brake arm 2b-G and does not act on the brake arm 2b-G). The technical idea of ​​this embodiment is that the establishment of the brake pedal accelerator function state B-A also involves the operation of moving the function selector pedal 2a toward the accelerator pedal 3.

[0023] The above-described embodiments realize a brake pedal function switching method as described below. <Brake pedal function switching method (1)> A brake pedal function switching method for an automobile having a brake pedal 2 having a brake pedal portion 2b-F that is a portion that is depressed with a foot, and an accelerator pedal 3 having an accelerator pedal portion 3a that is also a portion that is depressed with a foot, or for a virtual driving device (for example, a driving simulation device, an automobile driving simulator, or a driving video game machine) having the brake pedal 2 and the accelerator pedal 3, comprising: <Step 1> a brake pedal brake function state release step of releasing a brake pedal brake function state B-B in which the brake is applied when the brake pedal portion 2b-F is depressed; and <Step 2> a step of moving all or a part of the brake pedal portion 2b-F toward the accelerator pedal portion 3a, thereby changing the function of the brake pedal portion 2b-F to an accelerator that accelerates the automobile or the virtual driving device. a brake pedal accelerator function state forming step of switching the brake pedal to a brake pedal accelerator function state B-A, which is a brake pedal accelerator function; <step 3> an elapsed time measuring step of measuring or counting an accelerator state brake depression elapsed time atm, which is the elapsed time since the brake pedal section 2b-F was depressed in the brake pedal accelerator function state B-A, and the accelerator function was activated or the acceleration operation was started; <step 4> a forced braking operation instruction step of issuing a forced braking operation instruction to forcibly apply the brakes when the accelerator state brake depression elapsed time atm reaches a predetermined elapsed time; and <step 5> a forced braking automatic braking operation step of automatically applying the brakes forcibly based on the forced braking operation instruction. <Brake pedal function switching method (2)> A method for switching the function of a brake pedal of an automobile having a brake pedal 2 having a brake pedal portion 2b-F that is a portion that is pressed with a foot, and an accelerator pedal 3 having an accelerator pedal portion 3a that is also a portion that is pressed with a foot, or of a virtual driving device (for example, a driving simulation device, an automobile driving simulator, a driving video game machine) having the brake pedal 2 and the accelerator pedal 3,<step 1> a brake pedal brake function state step of releasing the brake pedal brake function state B-B in which the brake is applied when the brake pedal portion 2b-F is depressed; <step 2> a brake pedal accelerator function state forming step of moving all or a part of the brake pedal portion 2b-F toward the accelerator pedal portion 3a and changing the function of the brake pedal portion 2b-F to a brake pedal accelerator function state B-A, which is an accelerator function that accelerates the automobile or the virtual driving device; <step 3> an elapsed time measuring step of measuring or counting an accelerator state brake depression elapsed time atm, which is the elapsed time from depression of the brake pedal portion 2b-F in the brake pedal accelerator function state B-A and activation of the accelerator function or start of acceleration; and <step 4> a step of measuring or counting the accelerator state brake depression elapsed time atm, which is a predetermined elapsed time. <step 5> a forced braking operation instruction step of issuing a forced braking operation instruction to forcibly apply the brakes when the brake pedal 2 is in the brake pedal accelerator function state; <step 6> an accelerator state depression release detection step of detecting accelerator state depression release, which is release of depression of the brake pedal section 2b-F in the brake pedal accelerator function state B-A; <step 7> a brake pedal accelerator function state automatic release step of automatically releasing the brake pedal accelerator function state B-A when the accelerator state depression release is detected; and <step 8> a brake pedal brake function state B-B automatic formation step of automatically setting the function of the brake pedal 2 to the brake pedal brake function state B-B. <Brake pedal function switching method (3)> A method for switching the function of a brake pedal of an automobile having a brake pedal 2 having a brake pedal portion 2b-F that is a portion that is pressed with a foot, and an accelerator pedal 3 having an accelerator pedal portion 3a that is also a portion that is pressed with a foot, or of a virtual driving device (for example, a driving simulation device, an automobile driving simulator, a driving video game machine) having the brake pedal 2 and the accelerator pedal 3,<step 1> an accelerator function state switching operation step of switching a brake pedal brake function state B-B of the brake pedal 2, in which the brake is applied when the brake pedal portion 2b-F is depressed, to a brake pedal accelerator function state B-A, which is an accelerator function that accelerates the automobile or the virtual driving device when the brake pedal portion 2b-F is depressed; <step 2> a brake pedal brake function state release step of releasing the brake pedal brake function state B-B; <step 3> a brake pedal accelerator function state formation step of moving all or a part of the brake pedal portion 2b-F toward the accelerator pedal portion 3a, and changing the function of the brake pedal 2 to the brake pedal accelerator function state B-A; and <step 4> an elapsed time of measuring or counting an accelerator state brake depression elapsed time atm, which is the elapsed time since the accelerator function was activated or the acceleration operation was started after the brake pedal portion 2b-F was depressed in the brake pedal accelerator function state B-A. The present invention realizes a brake pedal function switching method comprising: a measuring step; <step 5> a forced braking operation instruction step of issuing a forced braking operation instruction to forcibly apply the brakes when the accelerator state brake depression elapsed time atm reaches a predetermined elapsed time; <step 6> an automatic forced braking operation step of automatically applying the brakes based on the forced braking operation instruction; <step 7> a brake function state switching operation step of switching the brake pedal 2 from the brake pedal accelerator function state B-A to the brake pedal brake function state B-B when depression of the brake pedal section 2b-F is released (=released) before the predetermined elapsed time in step 5 or before the forced braking operation instruction in step 6; and <step 8> a brake function state forming step of releasing the brake pedal accelerator function state B-A and setting the function of the brake pedal 2 to the brake pedal brake function state B-B. <Brake pedal function switching method (4)> A brake pedal 2 having a brake pedal portion 2b-F that is a portion that is depressed with a foot,A method for switching functions of a brake pedal of a vehicle having an accelerator pedal 3 having an accelerator pedal portion 3a that is a part that is depressed with a foot, or of a virtual driving device (for example, a driving simulator, a car driving simulator, a driving video game machine) having the brake pedal 2 and the accelerator pedal 3, wherein: <Step 1> detecting an accelerator pedal portion 3a depressed state in which the accelerator pedal portion 3a is depressed, or detecting a both pedal portion non-depressed state in which neither the accelerator pedal portion 3a nor the brake pedal portion 2b-F is depressed. a brake pedal brake function state release step of releasing a brake pedal brake function state B-B in which the brake is applied when the brake pedal 2b-F is depressed when the accelerator pedal 3a is depressed or when the both pedals are not depressed; and a brake pedal brake function state release step of releasing a brake pedal brake function state B-B in which the brake is applied when the brake pedal 2b-F is depressed when the accelerator pedal 3a is depressed or when the both pedals are not depressed. <step 7> a brake pedal accelerator function state establishing step of establishing a brake pedal accelerator function state B-A in which the brake pedal 2 is in an accelerator function state B-A; <step 4> an elapsed time measuring step of measuring or counting an accelerator state brake depression elapsed time atm, which is the elapsed time since the brake pedal section 2b-F was depressed in the brake pedal accelerator function state B-A and the accelerator function was activated or the acceleration operation was started; <step 5> a forced brake braking operation instruction step of issuing a forced brake braking operation instruction to forcibly activate the brakes when the accelerator state brake depression elapsed time atm reaches a predetermined elapsed time; <step 6> a forced brake automatic braking operation step of automatically performing a forced brake braking operation based on the forced brake braking operation instruction; <step 7> a brake pedal accelerator function state canceling step of canceling the brake pedal accelerator function state B-A; and <step 8> a brake pedal brake function state B-B establishing step of setting the function of the brake pedal 2 to the brake pedal brake function state B-B. <Program> A program that is installed on a computer.A program for executing the steps of any one of the brake pedal function switching methods (1), (2), (3), and (4).

[0024] The present invention is primarily used in driving schools, car driving simulators, and driving video game machines.

[0025] SD: foot, BA: brake pedal accelerator function state, BB: brake pedal brake function state, AOF: accelerator pedal depression state, atm: accelerator state brake depression elapsed time, bin: forced brake braking operation instruction, BAin: brake pedal accelerator function state formation instruction, BBin: brake pedal brake function state formation instruction, 1: brake pedal function switching device, 2: brake pedal, 2a: function switching pedal, 2a-F: brake pedal section, 2a-G: brake arm, 2b: brake function fixing section, 2b-F: brake pedal section, 2b- G: brake arm, 2ah: communication portion inlet hole, 2bh: brake side action receiving portion, 3: accelerator pedal, 3a: accelerator pedal portion, 3b: accelerator arm, 5: accelerator depression detection means, 6: accelerator depression notification means, 7a: indication portion, 7b: indication portion, 7c: indication portion, 10: function switching portion, 11: operation lever, 12: grip portion, 15: integral action forming means, 16a: support portion, 16b: support portion, 17: shaft, 18: lateral moving body, 19: brake function forming action portion, 20: accelerator function forming action portion, 21a: support portion, 21b: accelerator side action receiving portion, 21bs: side portion , 25: Brake pedal function switching device, 26: Accelerator depression detection means, 27: Control unit, 28: Instruction operation unit, 29: Function switching unit drive mechanism, 30: Other person's foot operation unit, 31: Detection means, 33: Brake depression detection means, 35: Accelerator depression notification unit, 36: Accelerator state notification unit, 37: Brake state notification unit, 40: Brake pedal function switching device, 41: Operation lever, 45: Brake pedal function switching device, 46: Braking mechanism, 50: Elapsed time measurement unit, 51: Forced brake braking operation instruction unit, 52: Forced brake automatic braking operation unit, 53: Oil line, 54: Brake, 55: Actuator, 56: Tire, 57: Drive instruction unit, 58: Detection signal receiving unit, 59: Pedal depression state detection unit, 60: Valve, 61: Main body box, 62: Monitor, 63: Wheel, 64: Motor, 65: Steering wheel, 66: Driver's seat, 67: Base, 68: Virtual driving device main body, 69: Rail, 70: Virtual driving device, 71: Acceleration driving device, 72: Control unit, 73: Brake pedal function switching device, 74: Accelerator state depression release detection unit, 75: Pedal depression state detection unit, 76: Brake pedal brake function state formation instruction unit,77: Brake pedal accelerator function state formation instruction unit, 78: Acceleration drive device, 79: Acceleration braking control unit, 80: Push bar, 82: Forced brake automatic braking operation unit, 83: Brake pedal function switching device, 84: Control unit, 85: Function switching unit, 86: Travel / braking control unit, 87: Acceleration instruction unit, 88: Braking instruction unit, 89: Road driving image control unit.

Claims

1. A method for switching the function of a brake pedal of an automobile having a brake pedal portion that is pressed with the foot, and an accelerator pedal having an accelerator pedal portion that is pressed with the foot, or of a virtual driving device (e.g., a driving simulation device, an automobile driving simulator, a driving video game machine) having said brake pedal and said accelerator pedal, comprising: a brake pedal brake function state release step for releasing a brake pedal brake function state (B-B) in which the brakes are applied when the brake pedal portion is pressed; and a brake pedal accelerator function state establishment step for setting the function of the brake pedal to a brake pedal accelerator function state (B-A), which is an accelerator function that accelerates said automobile or said virtual driving device.

2. A brake pedal function switching device for an automobile having a brake pedal with a brake pedal portion that is pressed with the foot, and an accelerator pedal with an accelerator pedal portion that is pressed with the foot, or for a virtual driving device (e.g., a driving simulation device, an automobile driving simulator, a driving video game machine) having the brake pedal and the accelerator pedal, comprising a function switching unit that releases the brake pedal brake function state (B-B), in which the brakes are applied when the brake pedal portion is pressed, and sets the function of the brake pedal to a brake pedal accelerator function state (B-A), which is an accelerator function that accelerates the automobile or the virtual driving device.

3. A virtual driving device (e.g., a simulation device, a car driving simulator, a driving video game machine) comprising: a virtual driving device main body having a brake pedal having a brake pedal portion that is pressed with the foot, an accelerator pedal having an accelerator pedal portion that is pressed with the foot, a steering wheel, and a driver's seat where the driver sits; a function switching unit that releases the brake pedal brake function state (B-B) in which the brake is applied when the brake pedal portion is pressed, and changes the function of the brake pedal to a brake pedal accelerator function state (B-A) which is an accelerator function that accelerates or moves the virtual driving device main body; and an acceleration drive unit that accelerates or moves the virtual driving device main body when the driver in the driver's seat presses the brake pedal portion in the brake pedal accelerator function state (B-A).

4. A program causing a computer to execute each step of the brake pedal function switching method according to claim 1.

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