DISPLAY CONTROL DEVICE FOR VEHICLES AND DISPLAY CONTROL METHOD FOR VEHICLES

专利摘要:
display control device for vehicles and display control method for vehicles this is information display, whose recognition of information regarding a steering aid control is relatively good even in a situation where a drive load is relatively large , since the display of information does not bother a driver. a display controller (30) displays an assist state display image, which consists of an image having a configuration in which an image of the vehicle is superimposed on a mesh image as a flat mesh-like image, on a screen device of liquid crystal (26) provided in a meter panel (21) of a meter device (20). furthermore, once it is determined that a steering aid control implemented by a steering aid device (40) is operating, the display controller (30) performs a display control to change a display mode of an image portion. screen of the assist state display image, which is to be displayed on the liquid crystal display device (26), to a preset display mode.
公开号:BR112015016674B1
申请号:R112015016674-1
申请日:2013-12-27
公开日:2021-07-13
发明作者:Yosuke Miuchi；Naoki Miyashita；Tomoyuki Kashiwaya
申请人:Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.；
IPC主号:

专利说明:

FIELD OF TECHNIQUE
[001] The present invention relates to a display control device for a vehicle and a display control method for a vehicle, which perform an operational status information display control of an assistance control. vehicle steering for a display device provided on a gauge panel of an automotive gauge device. FUNDAMENTALS OF THE TECHNIQUE
[002] To date, as well as a technology to display information from a vehicle brake/drive control to a display device provided on a gauge panel of an automotive gauge device, there is a technology revealed in the Literature of Patent 1. A wheel control status display device from Patent Literature 1 includes braking/drive force control means for detecting a vehicle state and adjusting the braking force or steering force for a plurality of wheels , which are affixed to a vehicle, based on a result of that detection. Then, the wheel control status display device displays the wheels, in which the braking force or the steering force is adjusted by the braking/drive force control means, by a nominee placed on an instrument panel. CITATION LIST Patent Literature PTL 1: JP 2000-344085 A SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Technique Problem
[003] However, in the conventional technology described above, the information is displayed by controlling the illumination of four indicator lamps, in which the four lamps individually correspond to wheel positions in a portion of the vehicle's contour that simulates a shape of the vehicle, and the indicator is composed of the contour portion of the vehicle and the four lamps. That is, by lighting and flashing the lamp in the position in question, a driver is notified of the wheel on which the braking force or drive force is adjusted. Therefore, in order to recognize the wheel on which the braking force or actuating force is adjusted, it is necessary for the driver to visually recognize in which tire position the lamp is illuminated. Therefore, for example, in a situation, such as a displacement on a curved road, where a drive load is high, it is understood that the recognition of display information may deteriorate. Furthermore, in the situation where the drive load is high, it is understood that the very display of such detailed information such as the lighting of the lamp in the place in question may seem to bother the driver.
[004] The present invention refers to this point as described above. An objective of the present invention is to perform an information display, in which the recognition of information regarding a steering assistance control is relatively good even in the situation where the drive load is relatively large, and the display of information does not bother the driver. Solution to Problem
[005] In order to solve the problems described above, an embodiment of the present invention displays a backup status display image, which consists of an image having a configuration in which an image of the vehicle is superimposed on an image of background as a flat image with a predetermined shape, on a display device provided on a gauge panel of an automotive gauge device. In addition, when it is determined that a steering aid control implemented by an automotive steering aid device is activated, a display control is performed to change a display mode of the background image portion of the image. Help state display, which must be displayed on the display device, to a predefined display mode. ADVANTAGEOUS EFFECTS OF THE INVENTION
[006]According to the present invention, the display mode of the background image portion is changed, thereby the driver is notified that the steering aid device is operating. That is, a display mode is changed not of an insignificant part corresponding to the control of the vehicle's image portion, but of an image of the background portion. Therefore, it becomes possible for the driver to understand an alteration of a display content by an instantaneous movement of a line of sight and by a peripheral visual field without observing the display content. In this way, even in a situation where the drive load is high, it becomes possible to accurately notify the driver that the steering assistance control is operating without disturbing the driver. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[007] Figure 1 is a conceptual diagram showing a model of an automobile V to which a display control device for a vehicle is applied according to a first modality;
[008] Figure 2 is a block diagram that shows an example of configuration of a measuring device 20;
[009] Figure 3 is a view showing an example of an external configuration of the measuring device 20;
[010]Figure 4 is a block diagram showing an example of a specific configuration of a display controller 30;
[011] Figure 5 is a view showing an example of a display screen of a liquid crystal display device 26 and an example of a standard image;
[012] Figures 6(a) and 6(b) are views that show an example of a display image when a control is interfered with;
[013]Figure 7 is a view that shows examples of scene-by-scene rendering images;
[014]Figure 8 is a view showing an example of a 261ARC rendering image as an auxiliary state display image for ARC;
[015]Figures 9A to 9D are views showing examples of SMB rendering images as auxiliary state display images for SMB;
[016] Figures 10A and 10B are views showing examples of 261HSA rendering images as auxiliary state display images for HSA;
[017]Figure 11 is a view showing an example of a 261HDC rendering image as an auxiliary state display image for HDC;
[018]Figure 12 is a time graph to explain an operation example of a display control that is based on minimum display time information of the first mode;
[019]Figure 13 is a time graph to explain an example of a display control operation when an ATC or AEB steering assistance control is activated;
[020]Figure 14 is a view showing an example of a displacement scene where ATC or AEB steering assistance control is enabled;
[021]Figure 15 is a time graph to explain an example of a display control operation when an SMB steering assistance control is activated;
[022] Figure 16 is a graph showing an example of time changes of a vehicle speed Vd, a degree of brake pedal operation Bd, a brake fluid pressure, and an HSA operation flag in a scene of operation of an HSA steering assistance control;
[023] Figure 17 is a view showing an example of progress of a display content of a display screen 260 and an illumination state of an indicator lamp 240HSA for HSA in relation to the progress of a state of displacement of the automobile V and a driver pedal operation state in the HSA steering assistance control operation scene;
[024] Figure 18 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a display controller 30 of a second mode;
[025]Figure 19 is a time graph to explain an example of a display control operation in a case where steering aid controls are activated while continuously superimposed on each other; and
[026] Figure 20 is a time graph to explain an example of a display control operation in a case where an operation-ready steer-assist control and a disturbance-ready steer-assist control are activated simultaneously. . DESCRIPTION OF MODALITIES (First Mode)
[027] A first embodiment of the present invention based on the drawings is described below. Figures 1 to 17 are views showing an embodiment of a display control device for a vehicle and a display control method for a vehicle according to the first embodiment of the present invention. (Settings)
[028]Figure 1 is a conceptual diagram that shows a model of an automobile V to which a display control device is applied to a vehicle according to this modality.
[029] The V car of this modality mounts a SBW (steer-by-wire) system in it. As shown in Figure 1, this automobile V includes: a steering wheel 1 steered by a driver; right and left front wheels (steered wheels) 11R and 11L; and a steering axis 2.
[030]The steering wheel 1 is provided so that it is mechanically separable from the right and left front wheels 11R and 11L. Handwheel 1 is coupled to steering shaft 2.
[031]The V car also includes: a steering angle sensor 3; a reaction motor 4; and a steering torque sensor 5. The steering angle sensor 3, the reaction motor 4 and the steering torque sensor 5 are provided on the steering shaft 2.
[032]Steering angle sensor 3 is a sensor that detects a steering angle θs of steering wheel 1, and is composed of an encoder, and the like.
[033] Reaction motor 4 is a motor that provides steering reaction force to flywheel 1 by adding torque to steering shaft 2. In this document, the steering reaction force described above is the reaction force acting in a direction opposite to an operating direction where the driver guides the steering wheel 1. This reaction motor 4 is composed of a brushless direct current motor, or the like, and drives in response to a motor drive current. reaction produced by an SBW 80 controller which will be described later.
[034]Steering torque sensor 5 detects steering torque T transmitted from steering wheel 1 to steering wheel 2. This steering torque sensor 5 is configured to detect steering torque T by detecting a torsional angle displacement of a torsional bar using a potentiometer.
[035]The V car also includes: a clutch 6; a pinion shaft 7; an 8-steering motor; a 9-steering engine angle sensor; a 12 pinion gear; a rack shaft 13; tensors 14; steering articulation arms 15; and the SBW 80 controller.
[036] Clutch 6 is interposed between flywheel 1 and steered wheels 11R and 11L, and is switched to a release state or to an engagement state according to a clutch instruction (clutch instruction chain) from of the SBW 80 controller.
[037]In a usual state, this clutch 6 is in the release state, and switches to the engagement state when some anomaly (for example, an anomaly in a steering reaction force system) occurs in the system. -SBW theme. In a state where the anomaly in question occurs and the clutch 6 is engaged, a steering assistance control is performed to provide the steering system with a steering assistance force to reduce a driver's steering load (hereinafter, this control steering assistance is termed as an EPS control).
[038]Furthermore, this clutch 6 switches to the engagement state also in an end strut state where the driver guides the steering wheel 1 to an adjacency of a steering limit. In the state where the clutch 6 is engaged as a result of switching to the end strut state, an end strut time control is performed to provide the driver with an end strut feel.
[039] In the clutch release state 6, a torque transmission path between the flywheel 1 and the steered wheels 11R and 11L is mechanically disconnected, and, correspondingly, a state is induced, where a steering operation steering wheel 1 is not transmitted to steered wheels 11R and 11L. However, in clutch engagement state 6, the torque transmission path between steering wheel 1 and steered wheels 11R and 11L is mechanically connected, and correspondingly a state is induced, where steering operation of steering wheel 1 is transmitted to the 11R and 11L steered wheels.
[040] With respect to the pinion shaft 7, one end of it is coupled to the clutch 6, and the pinion gear 12 is provided at the other end of it. Pinion gear 12 joins a rack gear provided between both end portions of rack shaft 13.
[041] Both ends of the rack axle 13 are coupled to the steered wheels 11R and 11L individually through the tensioners 14 and the steering articulation arms 15. That is, the rack axle 13 is displaced in a vehicle width direction in response to a rotation of the pinion gear 12, thus, the steered wheels 11R and 11L are steered through the tensioners 14 and the steering linkage arms 15, and become capable of changing a direction of displacement of the automobile V.
[042] Furthermore, the steering motor 8 is composed of a brushless direct current motor, or similar, similar to the reaction motor 4, and drives in response to a steering motor drive current produced by the SBW 80. This 8 steer motor drives in response to the steer motor drive current, and thereby produces the steering torque to drive the 11R and 11L steered wheels.
[043] On a nose end side of a steering motor output shaft 8, a steering output gear 8a formed using pinion gear 12 is provided. steering 8a joins a sprocket gear provided between both end portions of the sprocket shaft 13. That is, the steered wheels 11R and 11L become steerable in response to a rotation of the steer output gear 8a.
[044]Furthermore, the steering motor angle sensor 9 is provided in the steering motor 8. The steering motor angle sensor 9 detects a rotation angle of the steering motor 8. A steering angle θr of the steered wheels 11R and 11L is uniquely determined by a rotation angle of the steer output gear 8a and by a gear ratio of the rack shaft rack gear 13 and the steer output gear 8a. Therefore, in this mode, the steering angle θr of the steered wheels 11R and 11L forms the rotation angle of the steering motor 8.
[045]The SBW 80 controller receives steering angle θs from steering wheel 1, which is detected by steering angle sensor 3, steering torque T detected by steering torque sensor 5, and steering angle θr detected by steering motor angle sensor 9. Furthermore, in addition to the above, the SBW 80 controller receives a vehicle speed Vd and a yaw offset Y from a controller (not shown) of another system.
[046] Then, in the clutch release state 6, the SBW controller 80 controls a drive of the steering motor 8 in response to a steering state of the steering wheel 1, and drives the steered wheels 11R and 11L. In this way, the steering angle θr of the steered wheels 11R and 11L coincides with a steering instruction angle corresponding to the steering state. Furthermore, at the same time, the SBW controller 80 controls a drive of the reaction motor 6 in response to the steering state of the steered wheels 11R and 11L, and gives the steering reaction force to the steering wheel 1. , the SBW 80 controller provides steering reaction force, which stimulates the road surface reaction force, at the steering wheel 1. As previously described, the SBW 80 controller performs a steer-by-wire control (hereinafter referred to as a control of SBW).
[047] Furthermore, in the state where the clutch 6 is engaged as a result of switching to the end strut state, the SBW 80 controller performs a steering angle clamping control, which consists of setting the steering angle to a predetermined steering angle as well as end strut timing control to provide the end strut feel to the driver. For example, the predetermined steering angle described above is set to be a rack end angle. The end strut time control is ended in timing when the driver performs a retrograde steering operation to steering wheel 1. After the end strut time control has ended, the SBW 80 controller returns to a usual SBW control.
[048]In addition, the V car includes: a 20-meter device; a display controller 30; a steering aid device 40; and a communication network 50.
[049]In addition, the V-car includes: a driver-depressible 16 brake pedal; and a brake operation detection device 17 which detects a degree of depression Bd of the brake pedal 16. (Steering aid device 40)
[050] Steering aid device 40 includes a plurality of control systems (not shown) that implement a variety of steering aid controls. The steering aid device 40 controls the braking/drive force of automobile 1, controls a gear ratio of a transmission (CVT), controls a SBW system, and thus implements a variety of controls. of steering assistance.
[051] Additionally, the steering assistance device 40 generates operating flags, which indicate the operating states of the respective steering assistance controls, and transmits the generated operating flags to the display controller 30 through the communication network 50. In this document, the operation flags are set individually for a variety of steering assistance controls. Then, the respective operation flags are flags, which turn ON (where the signals are at a high level) under the operation of the steering assistance controls, and OFF (where the signals are at a low level) under the non-operation of the steering assistance controls.
[052] Furthermore, in this modality, the steering aid device 40 implements steering aid controls from (1) to (6) below. Note that steering aid controls are not limited to six types (1) to (6) below, and steering aid device 40 can be configured to implement other steering aid controls, such as a control maintenance of distance between vehicles. (86) ATC (Active Trace Control) (87) AEB (Active Engine Brake) (88) ARC (Active Ride Control) (89) HSA (Hill Start Assist) (90) HDC (Hill Descent Control) (91) SMB ( Side Magic Bumper)
[053]ATC is a steer assist control that controls the brake and engine outputs to the respective wheels in order to reduce a yaw delay of the V-car yaw to steering in response to a V-car yaw condition, which is detected based on a driver's steering state and a plurality of sensor detection values.
[054]AEB is a steering aid control that reduces the actuation load (driver pedal step-over operation) at a time when traveling along a curved road, such as a corner by controlling the ratio of transmission marks to aid a deceleration in response to the car's driving state V, which is based on the driver's steering state and the plurality of sensor detection values.
[055]ARC is a steering assistance control that accentuates the convergence of movement of a vehicle body after car V overcomes irregularities, each of which serves as a relatively large input.
[056] HSA is a steering assistance control that maintains brake pressure for a few seconds (eg two seconds) in an event where car V starts on a slope, and thereby prevents the automobile V descends rearward in an event where the driver switches from the brake pedal to an accelerator pedal.
[057]HDC is a steering assistance control that performs brake/drive control to allow car V to descend along a slope, where car V cannot be decelerated by a single brake. -tor, and a descending slope of this slippery road surface, with a snowy road at a constant vehicle speed (adjustable from 4 [km/h] to 15 [km/h]).
[058]SMB is a steering assistance control that enhances the roll stability of a V-car relative to its steering angle. In order to allow the V-car to precisely trace a line of travel with a minor steering angle correction, SMB recognizes a roadway lane ahead by an automotive camera (not shown) placed above a V-car rearview mirror. So, when a deviation is detected between a car's direction of travel V and the track, then the SBW system is controlled, thereby a tire angle is corrected in order to reduce the deviation in question, and the force of reaction is given to the direction. For example, even if the vehicle's direction of travel is changed by a cross wind, a furrow, and the like, SMB can reduce this change, and correspondingly is able to suppress the driver's correction direction. .
[059] The steering assistance device 40 generates the operating flags, which correspond to the respective steering assistance controls (1) to (6) described above, and transmits the respective generated operating flags to the display controller 30 through the communication network 50.
[060] Specifically, as shown in Figure 1, the steering aid device 40 generates an SMB operating flag, which indicates an SMB operating state, an ATC operating flag, which indicates an operating state. of ATC, an AEB operation flag, which indicates an AEB operation state, an HSA operation flag, which indicates an HSA operation state, an HDC operation flag, which indicates an HDC operation state, and a ARC operating flag, which indicates an ARC operating status. Then, the steering aid device 40 transmits the generated SMB, ATC, AEB, HSA, HDC and ARC operating flags to the display controller 30 via the communication network 50.
[061] In this mode, the communication network 50 is a network that adopts a CAN communication protocol (Controller Area Network). In CAN communication protocol, a variety of controllers are connected with a line-type connection configuration, and data communication is performed by a bus access of a multi-master system. Note that the communication network 50 is not limited to the CAN communication protocol, and, for example, it can have a configuration that adopts another communication protocol, such as LIN (Local Interconnected Network) and FlexRay. Note that, in this modality, the FlexRay communication protocol is adopted in the SBW system.
[062] Brake operation detection device 17 provides a degree of brake pedal operation, which is detected, to a VDC system (not shown) as one of the control systems provided in the steering assistance device 40.
[063] In this document, the VDC system is a system that implements a braking/drive control (stability control) to capture slippage of the front/rear wheels, control the braking force to the respective wheels and the engine output, and accentuate the stability of the automobile V. In this mode, the VDC system generates BHS (Brake Hold State) information, which indicates a state of depression of the driver of the brake pedal 16, based on the degree of Brake pedal operation provided. Then, the VDS system is configured to provide the generated BHS information to the display controller 30 via the communication network 50. Note that the VDC system can be configured to acquire the BHS information from other systems . (20 meter device)
[064] The following describes a measuring device 20 based on Figures 2 and 3.
[065] Figure 2 is a block diagram that shows an example of configuration of the metering device 20. Figure 3 is a view that shows an example of an exterior configuration of the metering device 20.
[066]As shown in Figure 2, the metering device 20 includes: a first meter 22; a second meter 24; a liquid crystal display device 26; a 28 meter controller; and a rendering image storage memory 29.
[067]The first gauge 22 has a configuration including: a tachometer 22a which displays an automobile engine speed V; and a fuel gauge 22b which displays an amount of fuel remaining in the V-car.
[068]The 22a tachometer is a mechanical gauge that analogically displays engine speed by a dial, which is added with a scale and numerical values, and by an indicator based on engine speed information from the gauge controller 28 .
[069]The 22b fuel gauge is a mechanical gauge that analogically displays the remaining amount of fuel, by a dial, which is added with a scale and alphabets (F, E), and by an indicator based on fuel residual quantity information from meter controller 28.
[070]The second gauge 24 has a configuration including: a speed gauge 24a which displays the vehicle speed of the automobile V; an indicator 24b that performs a display of an alert, a display of the operating state of the steering assistance control, and the like; and a coolant temperature gauge 24c that displays a temperature of an automobile engine coolant V.
[071] The 24a speed meter is a mechanical meter that analogically displays the vehicle speed of the V automobile by a dial, which is added with a scale and numerical values, and by an indicator based on the information of car speed V from meter controller 28.
[072] Indicator 24b turns off, lights or flashes an indicator lamp with a pattern, which is pre-prepared in response to each state, in response to a display instruction that is based on information indicating a fastening state of a safety belt. security, information indicating an opening/closing state of a door, and the like, the information being provided by the meter controller 28. In addition, the indicator 24b turns off, lights or flashes an indicator lamp for HSA in response to an indicator lamp display start instruction for HSA, the display start instruction being included in a render display instruction for HSA, which comes from the meter controller 28 and will be described later.
[073] The 24c refrigerant temperature meter is a mechanical gauge that analogically displays a refrigerant temperature, by a dial, which is added with a scale and alphabets (H, C), and by an indicator based on the temperature information of the refrigerant from the meter controller 28.
[074] In this embodiment, the liquid crystal display device 26 is composed of a TFT (Thin Film Transistor) liquid crystal display device. Based on an image display signal from the meter controller 28, which is received via the communication network 50 and the meter controller 28, this liquid crystal display device 26 displays an image (hereinafter referred to as an assist status display image) to notify the driver of the operating status of the variety of steering assistance controls implemented by the steering assistance device 40.
[075] It is noted that the liquid crystal display device 26 is not limited to the TFT liquid crystal display device, and may be composed of another display device, such as a plasma display device, plasma display device. field emission, and an organic EL display device provided that the other display device is a display device having recognition equivalent to or greater than that of the TFT liquid crystal display device. In addition, details of the assist state display images for the six types of steering assistance controls (1) to (6) described above will be described.
[076]The meter controller 28 receives information sent over the communication network 50 from an automotive controller (ECU) to a variety of controls. Specifically, via the communication network 50, the meter controller 28 receives a display start instruction (described later) and a display end instruction (described later) of the help state display picture and the indicator lamp for HSA, the instructions being sent from the display controller 30. Furthermore, through the communication network 50, the meter controller 28 receives information on engine speed, vehicle speed and coolant temperature , which is sent from an engine controller (not shown), and information about the amount of fuel remaining, which is sent from a fuel controller (not shown). Furthermore, via the communication network 50, the meter controller 28 receives information regarding the display of an indicator lamp, such as information about an open/closed state of the door, which is sent from a door controller.
[077] Furthermore, the meter controller 28 reads the information about the helper state display image from the render image storage memory 29 based on the display start instruction received from the state display image aid in question. Then, the meter controller 28 generates an image display signal from the help state display image thus read, and transmits the generated image display signal to the liquid crystal display device 26.
[078] Furthermore, based on the display termination instruction received for the helper state display image, the meter controller 28 reads, from the rendering image storage memory 29, information about a display image. assist status (hereafter referred to as a standard image) to notify the driver that the steering assistance control is not operating. Then, the meter controller 28 generates an image display signal from the standard image read in this way, and transmits the generated image display signal to the liquid crystal display device 26.
[079] Furthermore, the meter controller 28 transmits the received display start instruction to the indicator lamp for HSA to the indicator 24b of the second meter 24. Additionally, the meter controller 28 transmits the received display end instruction to the lamp indicator for HSA to the indicator 24b of the second meter 24.
[080] In addition, the meter controller 28 transmits the received information about the engine speed and the remaining amount of fuel to the first meter 22, and transmits the received information about the vehicle speed and coolant temperature to the second meter 24. Additionally, the meter controller 28 transmits the information received regarding the indicator screen to the second meter 24.
[081] Note that, in this mode, the first meter 22 and the second meter 24 are composed of mechanical meters; however, the first meter 22 and the second meter 24 are not limited to this configuration, and can be configured to perform a graphical display for a part or all of the meters, which make up the first meter 22 and the second meter 24 in question, on a liquid crystal display device display screen. In this configuration, the liquid crystal display device displaying the respective meters can consist of a single meter or a plurality of meters. Furthermore, the liquid crystal display device 26 can be configured to be enlarged in size and also serve for meter display.
[082]Render image storage memory 29 is a memory that stores rendering images (aid state display images) to be displayed on the liquid crystal display device 26. In this mode, the storage memory Render Image Array 29 stores render images, which are prepared in advance to individually match the six types of steering aid controls described above. Note that the details of the rendering images will be described later.
[083] Furthermore, in this modality, the measuring device 20 is mounted to a position of an automotive instrument panel (not shown), which is located in front of a driver's seat. For example, as shown in Figure 3, the metering device 20 has an external configuration, in which, on a gauge panel 21 with a front view shape formed by vertically inverting a "recessed" shape and contouring all portions At the corner, the oblong rectangular liquid crystal display device 26 is arranged on a center thereof, the first circular meter 22 is arranged on a left side thereof, and the second circular meter 24 is arranged on a right side thereof. It is noted that a disposition position of the measuring device 20 is adjusted so that when a driver with a predefined frame looks forward in a state of being seated in the driver's seat in a predefined seating position, the display screen of the liquid crystal display device 26 can remain in a peripheral visual field on an underside of the driver. That is, in this mode, desirably a height, or the like, of the seat is adjusted in response to the driver's frame, thereby the position adjustment is performed so that the display screen of the liquid crystal display device 26 can remain within the peripheral visual field on the driver's underside. (Display Controller 30)
[084] Turning to Figure 1, the display controller 30 performs a display control for the liquid crystal display device 26 and the indicator 24b, which are provided on the measuring device 20. Specifically, based on the flag of operating and steering angle θs, which are received via the communication network 50 from the steering aid device 40 and the steering angle sensor 3, the display controller 30 performs a display control to display , in the liquid crystal display device 26, the assist status display image for notifying the driver of the operating status of the steering assist device 40. Furthermore, in this mode, the display controller 30 performs a display control for the indicator lamp for HSA in indicator 24b at a time when the HSA as one of the steering assistance controls is operating.
[085] A specific configuration of the display controller 30 based on Figure 4 is described below.
[086]Figure 4 is a block diagram that shows an example of the specific configuration of the display controller 30.
[087]As shown in Figure 4, the display controller 30 includes: a display control ECU 300; a rendering information storage memory 302; and a display time measurement timer 304.
[088]The 300 display control ECU has a configuration including a 300A input processing unit and a 300B display control unit. Furthermore, the display control unit 300B has a configuration including a display time delay processing unit 300C and an output signal processing unit 300D.
[089]The input processing unit 300A receives the operating flags from the variety of steering assistance controls, which come from the steering assistance device 40, through the communication network 50. In addition, the unit input processing unit 300A receives the steering angle θs, which comes from steering angle sensor 3, through communication network 50. Then, input processing unit 300A inputs the operating flags received to the input processing unit 300C display time delay.
[090]In addition, the input processing unit 300A implements processing to determine a steering direction based on the received steering angle θs and a predefined steering angle threshold value. Specifically, the input processing unit 300A compares an absolute value of the received steering angle θs and the predefined steering angle threshold value to each other, and determines that the right-hand steering is performed, for example, in a case you have determined that an absolute value of a positive steering angle θs is the steering angle threshold value or greater. However, the input processing unit 300A determines that the left steering is performed, for example, in a case it has determined that an absolute value of a negative steering angle θs is the steering angle threshold value or greater. Note that, in a case of having determined that the absolute value of the steering angle θs is less than the steering angle threshold value, the input processing unit 300A determines that the automobile V is in a displacement state straight (state where the steering wheel 1 is located in a neutral position). Then, the input processing unit 300A inputs information (hereinafter referred to as driving direction information) about the driving direction, which is based on a result of the determination, to the output signal processing unit 300D.
[091] In this document, the driving direction information includes information about a left direction flag and a right direction flag.
[092]The left direction flag is a flag, which indicates that the left direction is performed, at a time of an ON state (for example, where the signal level is the high level), and a flag, which indicates that left steering is not performed, at a time of an OFF state (eg where the signal level is the low level).
[093] However, the right direction flag is a flag, which indicates that the right direction is performed, at the time of the ON state (for example, where the signal level is the high level), and a flag, which indicates that the right direction is not performed, in the time of the OFF state (for example, where the signal level is the low level).
[094]Furthermore, the left steer flag and the right steer flag indicate that steering wheel 1 is situated in the neutral position when both are in the OFF state.
[095] In addition, the 300A input processing unit receives the BHS information, which comes from the steering aid device 40, the HSA operation flag, and the vehicle speed Vd, which comes from the other system, through the communication network 50. Then, the input processing unit 300A transmits the rendering display instruction to HSA, which is based on the received BHS information, HSA operating flag and vehicle speed Vd, and includes a display instruction of the assist status display image and an indicator lamp display instruction for HSA, via the communication network 50 to the measuring device 20.
[096]Display time delay processing unit 300C determines that the operating state of the steering assistance control is based on the operating flag inserted into it. Then, once it is determined that at least one of the above described five types of steering aid controls excluding HSA is activated, the display time delay processing unit 300C acquires information (hereinafter referred to as time information display time) over a minimum display time, which is preset to the direction aid control determined to be activated, from the rendering information storage memory 302. Note that, in this mode, you can adjust the minimum display time for each type of steering assistance controls.
[097]In the present document, the minimum display time is, in an event to display a help state display image on the display screen of the liquid crystal display device 26, a time to display a display image of aid status in question continuously for a period as a lower threshold to accentuate the recognition of a driver display content. In this mode, basically, the assist status display image is displayed continuously during the steering assistance control operation. However, in a case where the steering assistance control is ended before the predefined minimum display time for the steering assistance control in question has elapsed, the assistance state display image is continuously displayed until the decor. rer of the minimum display time in question.
[098] However, in this mode, in a case where another aid steering control is activated during an operation of a certain aid steering control, the display of the aid state display time for that con- - subsequently activated steer assist trolley runs immediately even if the display time of the assist state display time for that previously activated steer assist control does not elapse beyond the minimum display time. That is, a delayed priority display control is performed.
[099] Furthermore, the minimum display time consists of information, such information indicating the type of steering assistance control and a constant (for example, a count value of a timer, and the like) indicating the Minimum display time corresponding to the type in question are associated with each other.
[0100] The display time delay processing unit 300C inserts this minimum display time information, which is acquired from the rendering information storage memory 302, and the operation flag, which is provided thereto, to the 300D output signal processing unit.
[0101] Based on the entered minimum display time information and the entered driving direction information, the output signal processing unit 300D reads the display pattern information from the assist state display image, which corresponds to the steering assistance control in question, from the rendering information storage memory 302. Then, based on the read display pattern information and the count value of the display time measurement timer 304, the output signal processing unit 300D generates the rendering display instruction, and transmits the generated rendering display instruction via the communication network 50 to the metering device 20.
[0102]In the present document, the render display instruction consists of instruction information including: the display start instructions, display switch instructions, and display end instructions for the variety state display images of assistance, the display start instruction and the display end instruction for the indicator lamp for HSA, and the like.
[0103]Once it is determined that the operation flag has toggled to the ON state, the output signal processing unit 300D transmits the display start instruction to the assistance control aid state display image. steering aid in question to the measuring device 20 via the communication network 50. Furthermore, after transmitting the display start instruction, the output signal processing unit 300D allows the display time measurement timer 304 to start a counting operation, and measure the display time of the backup state display image.
[0104]Then, based on the count value of the display time measurement timer 304, the output signal processing unit 300D determines the display end timing of the display aid state display image.
[0105]Specifically, once determined that the operation flags are in the OFF state (all the operation flags are in the OFF state) and the display time of the help state display image has elapsed beyond the display time minimum, the output signal processing unit 300D is that of the display end timing.
[0106] Furthermore, once it has been determined that the operation flags are in the OFF state (all the operation flags are in the OFF state) after the display time of the displayed help state display image has elapsed beyond the minimum display time, output signal processing unit 300D is that of display end timing.
[0107]Once it is determined that this is the display termination timing, the output signal processing unit 300D transmits the display termination instruction through the communication network 50 to the measuring device 20. That is, the unit Output signal processing 300D determines that none of the steering assistance controls are in operation, and allows the liquid crystal display device 26 to display the standard image.
[0108]However, once it was determined that the operation flag of the other steer assistance control toggled to the ON state before the display time of the displayed aid state display image has elapsed beyond the time of At the minimum display, the output signal processing unit 300D transmits the display switching instruction via the communication network 50 to the metering device 20.
[0109]In the present document, the display switch instruction is a display instruction to switch the display help state display image to a help state display image of the other direction help control in which the operation flag toggles to the ON state, and display the switched help state display image.
[0110] In addition, in this modality, for steering assistance control in which an operation scene is defined, this assistance state display image is first prepared in advance (hereinafter referred to as the display image of control interference time) should be displayed when it is determined that the steering assistance control is interfered. Additionally, it prepares in advance the help state display image (hereafter referred to as a scene-by-scene rendering image) to be displayed in a switched mode from the control interference time display image when determined -than the scene switched to a preset operation scene. That is, these images are pre-stored in the rendering image storage memory 29 of the measuring device 20.
[0111] Specifically, in the ATC and AEB steering assistance controls, those scenes where the steering assistance controls are activated are defined, such as a case where the V automobile is in yaw operation (however, this activation is not limited to the case where automobile V is in yaw operation). In this mode, for the ATC and AEB steering assistance controls, the control clash time display images and the scene-by-scene rendering images with graphical patterns individually corresponding to the driving directions (left direction, right direction) indicated by the driving direction information is pre-stored in the rendering image storage memory 29.
[0112]Once it is determined that ATC or AEB is in the operating state based on the acquired ATC or AEB operating flag, the output signal processing unit 300D reads the display pattern information from the control. ATC or AEB steering assistance from the rendering information storage memory 302. Then, once determined that the ATC or AEB steering assistance control is in the interference state (operating state and an event where the steering wheel 1 is in neutral position) based on the read display pattern information and the acquired driving direction information, the output signal processing unit 300D generates the display start instruction for the display image. Control interference time display. Then, the output signal processing unit 300D transmits the generated display start instruction to the metering device 20 via the communication network 50.
[0113] However, once determined that the ATC or AEB steering assistance control is operating in the predefined scene (operating state and an event where steering wheel 1 is towards the left or towards the right) based on the flag of ATC or AEB operation and in the driving direction information, the output signal processing unit 300D generates the display switching instruction to the scene-by-scene rendering image corresponding to the left direction or right direction. Then, the output signal processing unit 300D transmits the generated display switching instruction to the measuring device 20 via the communication network 50. It is noted that, in this mode, the scene-by-scene rendering image is only displayed for a period while left steering or right steering is performed. That is, even if the minimum display time has not elapsed from the scene-by-scene rendering image display, the output signal processing unit 300D performs a display control to perform a switching display on the image of control interference time display at a time point when left steering or right steering ends. However, until a total display time from the initial display of the clash time display image of control, the total display time that interferes with the scene-by-scene rendering image display elapses beyond the minimum display time, output signal processing unit 300D performs display control to continuously perform control interference time display image display even if ATC or AEB operation flag switches to the OFF state.
[0114]Rendering information storage memory 302 is a memory that stores: the minimum display time information of the variety of steering assistance controls; and the display pattern information of the assist state display images corresponding to the variety of steering assistance controls. In this mode, the rendering information storage memory 302 stores the ATC, AEB, ARC, SMB and HDC steering assistance controls and the minimum display time information. In addition, the 302 render information storage memory stores the display pattern information of the assist information that displays images from the ATC, AEB, ARC, SMB, HDC, and HSA steering assistance controls.
[0115]The display time measurement timer 304 is a timer that resets the count value in response to a reset instruction from the output signal processing unit 300D, and starts counting in response to a count start instruction from the output signal processing unit 300D. Then, the display time measurement timer 304 inputs the counted count value to the output signal processing unit 300D. (Help Status Display Image)
[0116] Next, based on Figures 5 to 11, the assistance state display images individually corresponding to the six types of steering assistance controls described above are described. (Default image and display screen setting)
[0117]First, based on Figure 5, a configuration of the display screen of the liquid crystal display device 26 and the default image to be displayed in the non-operation time of the steering assistance control is described. Figure 5 is a view showing an example of the display screen of the liquid crystal display device 26 and an example of the pattern image.
[0118]As shown in Figure 5, on a display screen 260 of the liquid crystal display device 26, a display region in an image is divided into four regions, which are: the first display region 260A , the second display region 260B; the third display region 260C; and the fourth display region 260D.
[0119]The first information region 260A is a region for displaying information such as time and air temperature.
[0120]The second display region 260B is a region for displaying information such as an operating status of a lane maintenance assist control, a vehicle distance maintenance control, and a speed adjustment value of vehicle of a constant vehicle speed displacement control.
[0121]The third information region 260C is a region for displaying the help state display image.
[0122]The fourth display region 260D is a region for displaying information such as measured values from a shift position, a travel mode and the odometer, and a measured value from a distance meter.
[0123]As shown in Figure 5, in the third display region 260C, a standard 261DF image is displayed.
[0124] The default 261DF image is an image to be displayed when any of the steering assistance controls are not operating, and as shown in Figure 5, it has a configuration including a 261a mesh image and an image of the vehicle 261b.
[0125] Mesh image 261a is a flat grid-like image.
[0126]The image of vehicle 261b is, for example, an image from a top-down viewpoint of the same type of vehicle as automobile V from an upper rear in a longitudinal direction of the vehicle.
[0127]The vehicle image 261b is displayed so that it is superimposed on the mesh image 261a. The mesh image 261a has a shape, which is extended in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle (far and near direction) from the vehicle image 261b, in which a width (overall width and grid width) in one direction (overhead referred to as a transverse direction) perpendicular to the longitudinal direction in question is wider towards the rear (near side), and the width in question is narrower towards the front (far side). The vehicle image 261b is displayed so that it is superimposed on a substantial center in the longitudinal direction and in the transverse direction of the mesh image 261a.
[0128]Further, in the present help status display images or the following images, including the 261DF standard image, a background color is white for illustrative convenience; however, it is desirably adjusted so that it is a background color, such as black, which can make use of a display effect to be described later, which allows the help state display images to appear to be emitting light. . (Control interference time display image and scene-by-scene rendering image)
[0129]The following, based on Figures 6 and 7, describes each assist state display image to be displayed at the time when the ATC or AEB steering assist control is operating. Figures 6(a) and 6(b) are views that show an example of the control interference time display image. Figures 7A and 7B are views showing examples of the scene-by-scene rendering image. Figure 7A is a view showing an example of a scene-by-scene rendering image (hereafter referred to as a left direction rendering image) when the left direction is determined, and Figure 7B is a view showing a example scene-by-scene rendering image (hereinafter referred to as a right direction render image) when the right direction is determined.
[0130]The 261IN control interference time display image shown in Figure 6(a) is the assist state display image to be displayed when the ATC or AEB steering assistance control interferes. In the standard image 261DF of Figure 5, the control interference time display image 261IN becomes an image in which the wheel images are displayed so that they are superimposed at wheel positions on the vehicle image 261b. Specifically, a 263FL wheel image is displayed such that it is superimposed on a left front wheel position, a 263FR wheel image is displayed such that it is superimposed on a front right wheel position, a wheel image 263BL is displayed so that it is superimposed on a left rear wheel position, and a 263BR wheel image is displayed such that it is superimposed on a right rear wheel position. Note that the 263FL, 263FR, 263BL and 263BR wheel images are displayed so that they are superimposed on the 261b vehicle image by a display color that exerts the display effect that allows the wheels to appear to be emitting light (hereafter this display mode is termed as four-wheel lighting display). In the present document, the display color that exerts the display effect that allows the wheels to appear to be emitting light, for example, due to the fact that a display color obtained by implementing gradation, enhancement, and the like, for a base, which is blue, green, and the like, in a case where the background color is black.
[0131]However, the 261LC left direction rendering image shown in Figure 7A is the help state display image to be displayed when the ATC or AEB operation flag is in the ON state and the left direction flag is in the ON state. Left direction rendering image 261LC has a configuration including: a left curved mesh image 261c, which is obtained by deforming mesh image 261a of Figure 6 into a left curved shape; the vehicle image 261b; and the 263FL, 263FR, 263BL and 263BR wheel images. In left-hand drive rendering image 261LC, a semi-circular effect display region 264LL, in which a circular arc portion faces a left outer portion, is additionally provided on a left side of the vehicle at a periphery of the vehicle. vehicle image 261b. Furthermore, in left direction rendering image 261LC, a semicircular effect display region 264RL, in which a circular arc portion faces a right outer portion, is additionally provided on a right side of the vehicle at the periphery of the vehicle image. 261b. Effect display regions 264LL and 264RL are sized to a point that surrounds the entire image of vehicle 261b when a circle is drawn connecting both regions to each other. In this embodiment, the effect display regions 264LL and 264RL, which are regions surrounded by dotted lines in Figure 7A, are displayed by this display color that exerts the display effect that allows the regions in question to appear to be emitting light. At this time, a gradation display is performed so that the brightness (or clarity) can be greater in the 264LL and 264RL effect display regions, which are closest to the 261b vehicle image, and that the brightness (or clarity) may be smaller in regions further away from the 261b vehicle image. Note that the 263FL, 263FR, 263BL, and 263BR wheel images in the 261LC left-hand drive rendering image are also submitted to the four-wheel illumination display in a similar way to the 261IN control interference time display image. of Figure 6 described above.
[0132] Furthermore, in this mode, as shown in Figure 7A, the 264LL and 264RL effect display regions are not provided in a region excluding two lines at a left and a right end, with the region belonging to a region equivalent to six lines that are located at a transverse center of the left curve mesh image 261LC and are extended in the far and near direction. In this way, a central region, which is not subjected to effect display, is set up to look like a highway.
[0133]Moreover, the 261RC right direction rendering image shown in Figure 7B is the help state display image to be displayed when the ATC or AEB operation flag is in the ON state and the right direction flag is in the ON state. The 261RC right direction render image has a configuration including: a right curved mesh image 261d, which is obtained by deforming the 261a mesh image of Figure 5 into a right curved shape; the vehicle image 261b; and the 263FL, 263FR, 263BL and 263BR wheel images. In the right direction rendering image 261RC, a semi-circular effect display region 264LR, in which a circular arc portion faces a left outer portion, is additionally provided on a left side of the vehicle at the periphery of the vehicle image 261b. Furthermore, in the right direction rendering image 261RC, a semicircular effect display region 264RR, in which a circular arc portion faces a right outer portion, is additionally provided on a right side of the vehicle at the periphery of the vehicle image. 261b.
[0134]Note that the 261RC right direction render image is an image, which becomes symmetrical to the 261LC left direction render image, and performs an effect display similar to that of the left direction effect image 261LC. (Help state display image for ARC)
[0135]The following, based on Figure 8, describes an assist state display image to be displayed at a time when the ARC steering assist control is operating. Figure 8 is a view showing an example of the 261ARC rendering image which is the helper state display image for ARC.
[0136]The 261ARC rendering image shown in Figure 8 is the help state display image to be displayed when the ARC operation flag is in the ON state. As shown in Figure 8, the 261ARC render image has a configuration including: the 261a mesh image; the vehicle image 261b; the 263FL, 263FR, 263BL, and 263BR wheel images; and an effect display region 265.
[0137]The effect display region 265 is a region obtained by surrounding a periphery of the vehicle image 261 in a rectangular shape.
[0138] In this embodiment, a color of lines that form a grid in a region surrounded by the effect display region 265 is displayed by a display color that exerts the display effect that allows the lines in question to appear to be emitting light.
[0139]In addition, the 263FL, 263FR, 263BL and 263BR wheel images in the 261ARC render image are subjected to four-wheel illumination display.
[0140] In this document, the ARC steering assistance control described above is a control to reduce a deterioration of driving comfort, which is caused by the fact that the V car overcomes irregularities on a highway, rapidly converging movements of a vertical behavior, a transverse behavior, and the like, of the vehicle body, which are caused by the fact that the V-car overcomes irregularities. That is, the ARC assistance status display image targets a display effect to provide the driver with a sense of security, which is given as if the road surface within the effect display region 265 on the periphery of the vehicle image 261b was a level ground, allowing the emission of light from the lines in the region. (Help state display image for SMB)
[0141]The following, based on Figures 9A to 9D, describe assist state display images to be displayed at a time when SMB steering assist control is operating. Figures 9A to 9D are views that show examples of the SMB rendering images that are helper state display images for SMB.
[0142]The 261SMB1 to 262SMB5 rendering images shown in Figures 9A to 9D are the help state display images to be displayed when the SMB operation flag is in the ON state.
[0143]As shown in Figure 9A, the 261SMB1 rendering image has a configuration including: a mesh image with HP 261h format; and vehicle image 261b.
[0144]The HP 261h shaped mesh image is a U-shaped image in which both transverse ends of the 261a mesh image shown in Figure 5 are rounded and folded so that they are elevated. Adopting this format, the walls are formed on both transverse sides of the vehicle image 261b.
[0145]As shown in Figure 9B, the 261SMB2 rendering image has a setting where, in the 261a mesh image of the 261SMB1 rendering image, a left side effect display region AL1, which is located near a left side of vehicle image 261b, and a right side effect display region AR1, which is located near a right side of the vehicle image, where the right side effect and left side effect display regions AL1 and AR1 are indicated by dotted line portions, are provided. In this modality, the 261SMB2 rendering image is displayed by a display color that exerts the display effect that allows the inner parts of the left side effect display region AL1 and the right side effect display region AR1 to appear to be emitting light (hereafter this display is referred to as the light emitting display).
[0146]As shown in Figure 9C, the 261SMB3 rendering image has a setting in which, in addition to the 261SMB2 rendering image, an AL2 left side effect display region adjacent to a left side of the side effect display region a left AL1 of mesh image 261a is provided. In addition, the 261SMB3 rendering image has a setting in which an AR2 right side effect display region adjacent to a right side of the AR1 right side effect display region of the 261a mesh image is provided. In this mode, the 261SMB3 rendering image performs the light emission display for the left side effect display regions AL1 and AL2 and the right side effect display regions AR1 and AR2.
[0147]As shown in Figure 9D, the 261SMB4 rendering image has a setting in which, in addition to the 261SMB3 rendering image, the left side effect display region AL3 adjacent to a left side of the side effect display region to the left AL2 of mesh image 261a is provided. In addition, the 261SMB4 rendering image has a setting in which an AR3 right side effect display region adjacent to a right side of the AR2 right side effect display region of the 261a mesh image is provided. In this mode, the 261SMB4 rendering image performs the light emission display for the left side effect display regions AL1 to AL3 and the right side effect display regions AR1 to AR3.
[0148]As shown in Figure 9E, the 261SMB5 rendering image has a setting in which, in addition to the 261SMB4 rendering image, the left side effect display region AL4 adjacent to a left side of the side effect display region to left AL3 of the 261a mesh image is provided. In addition, the 261SMB5 rendering image has a setting in which the AR4 right side effect display region adjacent to a right side of the AR3 right side effect display region of the 261a mesh image is provided. In this mode, the 261SMB5 rendering image performs the light emission display for the left side effect display regions AL1 to AL4 and the right side effect display regions AR1 to AR4.
[0149] In this modality, for the SMB1 to 261SMB5 rendering images described above, the light emission display is performed so that the brightness (or clarity) can be greater in the regions closest to the image of the 261b vehicle in the far direction and close, and that brightness (or clarity) may be lower in the farthest regions of the 261b vehicle image.
[0150]Furthermore, in this mode, the rendering images 261SMB1 to 261SMB5 described above are displayed continuously, thus, an animation display is performed.
[0151]Specifically, the driver turns ON an SMB switch (not shown) to activate the steering assistance control, thus the SMB operation flag switches to the ON state. Thereby, the display controller 30 performs a display control to switch the display image of the third display region 260C of the liquid crystal display device 26 to the rendering image 261SMB1. Subsequently, the display controller 30 performs this display control to display the 261SMB1 rendering image, the 261SMB2 rendering image, the 261SMB3 rendering image, the 261SMB4 rendering image, and the 261SMB5 rendering image in that order. In this way, the animation display, in which the rendering images 261SMB1 to 261SMB5 sequentially emit light from the side close to the 261b vehicle image, is performed, and a state is induced, where both transverse sides of the 261b vehicle image are surrounded by these light-emitting walls. Afterwards, the driver turns OFF the SMB switch, thus the SMB operation flag switches to the OFF state. Thus, the display controller 30 performs this display control to display the 261SMB5 rendering image, the 261SMB4 rendering image, the 261SMB3 rendering image, the 261SMB2 rendering image, and the 261SMB1 rendering image in that order in third display region 260C of the liquid crystal display device 26. Thereby, the animation display, in which light is erased from the transverse outer parts of the mesh image 261a into the same, is realized. Thereafter, the display controller 30 performs display control to display the pattern image 261DF in the third display region 260C of the liquid crystal display device 26. (Help state display image for HSA)
[0152]The following, based on Figures 10A and 10B, an assist state display image to be displayed at a time when the HSA steering assist control is operating is described. Figures 10A and 10B are views that show examples of 261HSA rendering images that are the helper state display images for HSA.
[0153] A 261HSA(S) rendering image shown in Figure 10A is an assist state display image to be displayed at a time when the HSA operation flag is in the ON state and the brake pedal 16 is in a state pressed (hereinafter referred to as a BH (Brake Hold) state).
[0154] However, the 261HSA(O) rendering image shown in Figure 10B is an assist state display image to be displayed at a time when, in the BH state, the driver releases the brake pedal 16, and induces if a state where a holding operation of a brake fluid pressure in HSA is activated (hereafter this state is referred to as a fluid pressure holding operation state).
[0155] In the following parts of this document, in a case where the 261HSA(S) rendering image and the 261HSA(O) rendering image are not distinguished from each other, both are simply referred to as the 261HSA rendering images.
[0156]As shown in Figures 10A and 10B, each 261HSA rendering image has a configuration including: a 261e mesh image; an image of the vehicle 261f; 263SFL and 263SBL wheel images; and an ascending lane display line 266.
[0157] Mesh image 261e is a composite background image by crossing a plurality of lines together in a grid format.
[0158] The vehicle image 261f is, for example, a left side image of the same type of vehicle as the vehicle V when viewed from the front in the drawing, and is displayed so that it is superimposed on the mesh image 261e.
[0159]The 263SFL wheel image is an image of a front left wheel in the 261f vehicle image.
[0160]The wheel image 263SBL is an image of a left rear wheel in the vehicle image 261f.
[0161] Upward display line 266 is a straight line (straight line having a slant angle, for example, 15[°] with respect to a lower edge of the third display region 260C) extending obliquely to the left for -ra up from a lower side of a right end of the screen of the third display region 260C towards a left end of the screen, and is a line expressing an ascending track viewed transversely.
[0162] Therefore, the mesh image 261e is not displayed in a region opposite one side of the road surface in the third display region 260c with respect to the ascending lane display line 266 taken as a boundary, but is displayed only on a region on the side of the road surface.
[0163] The vehicle image 261f is arranged so that a vehicle front side edge edge of the vehicle image 261f can face up obliquely to the left along the rising lane display line 266 so that the tire bottom ends of the wheel images 263SFL and 263SBL may contact the rising lane display line 266 from one side of the rising lane display line 266 in question, which becomes the road surface. That is, the image of the 261HSA vehicle is an image that shows a state where the vehicle is stopped on an up lane climb lane.
[0164]Further, in this mode, the display controller 30 displays tire portions of the 263SFL and 263SBL wheel images in the 261HSA(S) rendering image by a display color that exerts the display effect that allows the portions tires appear to be emitting light. In the following parts of this document, this display mode is referred to as a wheel illumination display.
[0165] Furthermore, in this mode, the display controller 30 displays the tire portions of the wheel images 263SFL and 263SBL in the 261HSA(O) rendering image in a display mode of alternately repeating a state of displaying the portions. of tire by the display color exerting the display effect that allows the tire portions to appear to be emitting light and a state of displaying the tire portions by a display color (eg a bright color (lightness), such as as black), which allows the tire portions to appear to be off in contrast to the light emission display. In the following parts of this document, this display mode is referred to as the flashing wheel display.
[0166] Furthermore, in this mode, as shown in a lower portion of Figure 10A, the display controller 30 performs a display control to turn on and display a 240HSA indicator lamp for HSA in sync with the wheel illumination display of the 261HSA(S) rendering image.
[0167] Furthermore, in this mode, as shown in a lower portion of Figure 10B, the display controller 30 performs a display control to flash and display the 240HSA indicator lamp for HSA in sync with the picture wheel pinch control renderer 261HSA(O). (Help state display image for HDC)
[0168] Next, based on Figure 11, an assist state display image to be displayed at a time when the HDC steering assist control is operating is described. Figure 11 is a view showing an example of the 261HDC rendering image which is the help state display image for HDC.
[0169]The 261HDC rendering image shown in Figure 11 is the help state display image to be displayed when the HDC operation flag is in the ON state. It is noted that the HDC steering assistance control is activated by toggling a dedicated switch (hereafter referred to as an HDC switch) to an ON state after fixing the automobile V to a four-wheel drive state.
[0170]As shown in Figure 11, the 261HDC rendering image has a configuration including: a 261g mesh image; an image of the vehicle 261i; the 263SFL and 263SBL wheel images; and a descending track display line 267.
[0171]The 261g mesh image is a background image with a composite pattern crossing a plurality of lines together in a grid format.
[0172] The image of the 261i vehicle is, for example, a left side image of the same type of vehicle as the V car when the left side image is seen from the front in the drawing, and is displayed so that it is superimposed on the 261g mesh image.
[0173] Descending lane display line 267 is a wavy line (wavy line having a slant angle, for example, of 15[°] to the lower edge of the third display region 260C) extending obliquely to the right upwards from a lower side of a left screen edge of the third display region 260C towards a right screen edge thereof, and is a line expressing a downward track, which is viewed across and has a surface condition bad road.
[0174] Therefore, mesh image 261g is not displayed in a region opposite the road surface side in the third display region 260c with respect to descending lane display line 267 taken as a boundary, but is displayed only in one region on the road surface side.
[0175]The vehicle image 261i is arranged so that a vehicle front side edge edge of the vehicle image 261i can face left obliquely downward along the downtrack display line 267 so that the tire bottom ends of the 263SFL and 263SBL wheel images may contact the down lane display line 267 from one side of the down lane display line 267. That is, the image of the 261HDC vehicle is an image showing a state where the vehicle moves along the descending lane.
[0176] Furthermore, in this mode, the display controller 30 displays tire portions of the 263SFL and 263SBL wheel images in the 261HDC rendering image by a display color that exerts the display effect that allows the tire portions to look like it is emitting light (this display is the wheel illumination display).
[0177] It is noted that, in relation to the ATC, AEB, ARC and SMB steering assistance controls described above, the situations in which these occur are situations where the drive load is relatively large, and the situations include those where the vehicle speed of the V-car is relatively high, the V-car performs a yaw operation, and the V-car overcomes irregularities that provide large input. Hence, in these situations, as described above, it becomes difficult for the driver to observe the display screen 260 of the liquid crystal display device 26, and recognize detailed display content therein. Correspondingly, in this mode, for the ATC, AEB, ARC and SMB steering assistance controls, where the drive loads are relatively high, the vehicle image is arranged in the flat mesh-like image, and in addition , an assist status display image is displayed with a top-down composition of the vehicle from the top rear. Furthermore, at the time when the ATC, AEB, ARC and SMB steering assistance controls are operating, the mesh image portion at the periphery of the vehicle image is subjected to the light emission display. Furthermore, in the shifting scene where the steering assistance control is definitely stopping at the time of yaw shift, the mesh image shape is changed in response to the driver's operation in addition to the image portion's light emission display mesh on the periphery of the vehicle image. In this way, it becomes possible for the driver to recognize which type of steering aid controls is operating by an instantaneous moment of the line of sight and the peripheral visual field without looking at the display screen 260 of the display device. liquid crystal 26.
[0178] However, in the HSA and HDC steering assistance controls described above, the operating situations of these are situations where the drive load is relatively small, and the situations include those where the vehicle V is stopped in the lane of a ascending lane with a steep gradient, and where the V automobile travels on a descending lane with a steep gradient, a snowy highway, and the like, at a relatively low vehicle speed. Hence, in these situations, as described above, it becomes relatively easy for the driver to see the display screen 260 of the liquid crystal display device 26 and recognize the display content thereon. Correspondingly, in this mode, in the operating time of each of the HSA and HDC steering assistance controls, where the drive loads are relatively small, the vehicle image in which the vehicle side is seen is displayed frontally on the drawing, and, in addition, a notification on the operating state of the steering assistance control is launched by the light emission display or by the flashing display of the tire portions of the wheel image in the vehicle image. In this way, it becomes possible for the driver to recognize a relatively detailed operating situation of the steering assistance control from the display content of the liquid crystal display device 26. Furthermore, in this mode, the image portion of the vehicle of the 261HSA rendering image is formed in a format similar to the 240HSA indicator lamp. This makes it easy for the driver to recognize that the HSA steering assistance control is operating at the time of viewing the 261HSA rendering image. (Operations)
[0179]The operations of this modality are described below, based on Figures 12 to 17. [Display control operation based on minimum display time information]
[0180]Based on Figure 12, the operations at the time of display control are described for the help state display image, which is based on the minimum display time information from display controller 30. Figure 12 is a time graph to explain an example of operation at the time of display control that is based on the minimum display time information for that modality.
[0181]First, an example of operation is described in a case where, as shown in (1) in Figure 12, a time while an X operation flag of an X direction assistance control is in the ON state , that is, an operating time tox of the X-direction assist control is longer than the minimum display time tminx. Note that, in this mode, the X steering assistance control is any control among the ATC, AEB, ARC, SMB and HDC steering assistance controls.
[0182]Once it is determined that the X operation flag entered from the input processing unit 300A has switched to the ON state, the display time delay processing unit 300C reads the minimum display time tminx, which corresponds to the X direction assistance control, chromes the minimum display time information from the rendering information storage memory 302. Then the display time delay processing unit 300C enters the minimum display time of tminx read and the entered operation flags (all operation flags) to the output signal processing unit 300D.
[0183]Once it is determined that the X run flag has switched to the ON state based on the run flag entered from the display time delay processing unit 300C, the output 300D reads the display pattern information, which corresponds to the X direction aid control, from the rendering information storage memory 302. Furthermore, based on the read display pattern information, the unit output signal processing 300D generates the X display start instruction for the X-assist state display image (hereinafter referred to as the X-rendering image) corresponding to the X-direction assist control. In addition, the processing unit The output signal 300D transmits the generated X display start instruction to the measuring device 20 through the communication network 50. Meanwhile, the output signal processing unit 300D issues the start instruction to the operation. ration to the display time measurement timer 304, and starts the counting operation (display time measurement) by the display time measurement timer 304.
[0184] Furthermore, upon receipt of the display start instruction X from the output signal processing unit 300D, the meter controller 28 of the metering device 20 reads the information about the rendering image X, which correspond to the display start instruction X received from the render image storage memory 29. Additionally, the meter controller 28 acquires a variety of information, which must be displayed in the first display region 260A , in the above-described second display region 260B and fourth display region 260D, via communication network 50 from other controllers, instruments, and the like. Then, the meter controller 28 generates an image X-image display signal of the image, which is to be displayed on the display screen 260, based on the reading information in the X-rendering image and a variety of acquired information, and inserts the generated X-image display signal to the liquid crystal display device 26. It is noted that, regarding the variety of information, which should be displayed in the first display region 260A, the second display region 260B, and the fourth display region 260D described above, the contents of these are changed in response to time and situation, and therefore the image display on display screen 260 is updated in a predefined cycle.
[0185]As shown in (2) in Figure 12, the liquid crystal display device 26 displays the X-rendering image on the display screen 260 based on the X-image display signal inserted therein.
[0186]Note that, in the example shown in (1) in Figure 12, the operating time tox of the X-direction assistance control is greater than the minimum display time tminx. Therefore, the output signal processing unit 300D does not end displaying the X-rendering image even if the count value of display time measurement timer 304 exceeds the minimum display time tminx, but as shown in (1) and (2) in Figure 12, performs display control in order to continue displaying the X rendering image until the X operation flag switches to the OFF state. Specifically, once it is determined that the inserted operation flag X has toggled to the OFF state, the output signal processing unit 300D generates the display termination instruction for the rendering image X. Then, the pro unit - output signal processing 300D transmits the generated display termination instruction to the measuring device 20 via the communication network 50.
[0187] Upon receipt of the display termination instruction from the output signal processing unit 300D, the meter controller 28 of the metering device 20 reads the standard image information 261DF from the image storage memory of rendering 29. In addition, the meter controller 28 acquires a variety of information, which must be displayed in the first display region 260A, the second display region 260B, and the fourth display region 260D described above, through the communication network 50 from other controllers, instruments, and the like. Then, the meter controller 28 generates the DF image display signal from the image, which is to be displayed on the display screen 260, based on the read information about the standard image 261DF and the variety of acquired information, and enters the signal. The DF image display device generated to the liquid crystal display device 26. The liquid crystal display device 26 displays the standard image 261DF on the display screen 260 based on the DF image display signal inserted therein.
[0188]The following describes an example of operation in a case where the operating time tox of the X-direction assist control is shorter than the minimum display time tminx. In that case, even in a case of having determined that the X operation flag entered from the display time delay processing unit 300C has switched to the OFF state, the output signal processing unit 300D performs the display control to continuously display the X-rendering image until the count value becomes a value equal to or greater than the value, which indicates the minimum display time tminx, as shown in (4) in Figure 12.
[0189] That is, once it is determined that the count value of the display time measurement timer 304 has become the minimum display time tminx, the output signal processing unit 300D generates the terminate instruction of display for the rendering image X. Then, the output signal processing unit 300D transmits the generated display termination instruction to the measuring device 20 via the communication network 50.
[0190]The following describes an example of operation in a case where a B direction assist control is subsequently activated while an A direction assist control is operating. Note that in this mode, the A-steer assist control is any control among the ATC, AEB, ARC, SMB and HDC-steer assist controls. In addition, in this mode, the B steering assistance control is any control among the ATC, AEB, ARC, SMB and HDC steering assistance controls that is different from the A steering assistance control.
[0191] As shown in (5) and (6) in Figure 12, when the B steering assistance control is activated while the A steering assistance control is operating, the 300C display time delay processing unit of - ends that a B operation flag has switched to the ON state during a period of determining that an A operation flag entered from the input processing unit 300A is in the ON state.
[0192]The display time delay processing unit 300C reads a minimum display time tminB, which corresponds to direction assist control B, from the rendering information storage memory 302. Then the unit display time delay processing 300C inserts the minimum read display time tminB and the operation flags input to output signal processing unit 300D.
[0193]Once it is determined that the B operation flag has switched to the ON state while the A operation flag is in the ON state based on the entered operation flag, the output signal processing unit 300D reads the information of display pattern, which correspond to the B-direction assist control, from the rendering information storage memory 302. Then, based on the read display pattern information, the output signal processing unit 300D generates the display switching instruction B for the rendering image B corresponding to the direction assistance control B. In addition, the output signal processing unit 300D transmits the generated display switching instruction B to the measuring device 20 via of the communication network 50. Meanwhile, the output signal processing unit 300D issues a reset instruction to the display time measurement timer 304 and resets the count value. m, furthermore, subsequently issues the start instruction for the counting operation to the 304 display time measurement timer, and starts the counting operation by the 304 display time measurement timer.
[0194] However, upon receipt of the display switching instruction B from the output signal processing unit 300D, the meter controller 28 of the metering device 20 reads the information about the rendering image B, which correspond to the display switching instruction B received from the rendering image storage memory 29. In addition, the meter controller 28 acquires a variety of information, which should be displayed in the first display region 260A, in the second display region 260B and fourth display region 260D described above, via communication network 50 from other controllers, instruments, and the like. The meter controller 28 then generates a B-image display signal of the image, which is to be displayed on display screen 260, based on the read information about the B-render image and a variety of acquired information, and enters the image display signal B generated to the liquid crystal display device 26.
[0195]As shown in (8) in Figure 12, the liquid crystal display device 26 displays the B rendering image instead of the A rendering image on display based on the B image display signal entered in the same.
[0196]Furthermore, as shown in (7) in Figure 12, the operating time toB of the B-steering assistance control is shorter than the minimum display time tminB. Therefore, even in a case of having determined that the operation flag B entered from the display time delay processing unit 300C has switched to the OFF state, the output signal processing unit 300D performs the display control to continuously display the rendering image B until the count value becomes a value equal to or greater than the value, indicating the minimum display time tminB, as shown in (7) in Figure 12. [ATC or AEB steering assistance control operation time display control operation]
[0197] The following describes a display control operation on the operating time of the ATC or AEB steering assistance control based on Figures 5 to 7, Figure 13 and Figure 14. Figure 13 is a time graph to explain an example of display control operation at a time when ATC or AEB steering assistance control is operating. Figure 14 is a view showing an example displacement scene where the ATC or AEB steering assistance control is operating. Note that, in Figures 13 and 14, a time t2 in both indicates the same time point, and a time t4 in both indicates the same time point.
[0198]It is assumed that, as shown in Figure 13, at time t1, steering assistance control ATC or AEB is activated, and the operation flag ATC or AEB has toggled to the ON state.
[0199] In this case, the display time delay processing unit 300C reads the minimum display time information (in this document defined as a minimum display time tminA), which corresponds to the aid control of ATC or AEB direction, from the rendering information storage memory 302. Then, the display time delay processing unit 300C enters the minimum read display time tminA and the operating flags entered to the display processing unit. 300D output signal.
[0200]Once it is determined that the ATC or AEB operation flag has switched to the ON state based on the operation flag entered from the display time delay processing unit 300C, the output signal processing unit 300D reads the display pattern information, which corresponds to the ATC or AEB direction assistance control, from the rendering information storage memory 302. The output signal processing unit 300D then generates a display start instruction of the rendering image, which corresponds to the ATC or AEB steering assistance control, based on the driving direction information (left direction flag and right direction flag) entered from the 300A input processing unit.
[0201]Specifically, at time t1, each left direction flag and right direction flag is in the OFF state, and correspondingly the output signal processing unit 300D generates the display start instruction for the 261IN control interference time display image. Then, the output signal processing unit 300D transmits the generated display start instruction to the metering device 20 via the communication network 50.
[0202]Therefore, on the display screen 260 of the liquid crystal display device 26, the control interference time display image 261IN shown in Figure 6 is displayed instead of the standard image 261DF shown in Figure 5, which is on display.
[0203] Next, as shown in Figure 14, when automobile V approaches a left-hand curved road and the driver guides steering wheel 1 counterclockwise in a steering degree of steering angle threshold value or greater at time t2, then, as shown in Figure 13, the left direction flag switches to the ON state at time t2. When the left direction flag switches to the ON state, the output signal processing unit 300D generates the display switching instruction to the left direction rendering image 261LC. Then, the output signal processing unit 300D transmits the generated display switching instruction to the metering device 20 via the communication network 50.
[0204]Therefore, on the display screen 260 of the liquid crystal display device 26, the left direction rendering image 261LC shown in Figure 7A is displayed instead of the control interference time display image 261IN on display .
[0205]Later, when the driver performs a steer to return steering wheel 1 to the neutral position, and both the left steer flag and the right steer flag switch to the OFF state at a time t3 as shown in Figure 13, then, the output signal processing unit 300D generates the display switching instruction to the control interference time display picture 261IN. Then, the output signal processing unit 300D transmits the generated display switching instruction to the metering device 20 via the communication network 50.
[0206]Therefore, on the display screen 260 of the liquid crystal display device 26, the control interference time display image 261IN shown in Figure 6 is displayed instead of the left direction rendering image 261LC on display.
[0207] Subsequently, as shown in Figure 14, when automobile V approaches a road curved to the right and the driver guides steering wheel 1 clockwise in a direction degree of the steering angle threshold value or larger at time t4, then, as shown in Figure 13, the right direction flag switches to the ON state at time t4. When the right direction flag switches to the ON state, the output signal processing unit 300D generates the display switching instruction to the right direction rendering image 261RC. Then, the output signal processing unit 300D transmits the generated display switching instruction to the metering device 20 via the communication network 50.
[0208]Therefore, on the display screen 260 of the liquid crystal display device 26, the right direction rendering image 261RC shown in Figure 7B is displayed instead of the control interference time display image 261IN on display .
[0209]Later, when the driver performs a steering to return steering wheel 1 to the neutral position, and the left steering flag switches to the OFF state at a time t5 as shown in Figure 13, then the drive 300D output signal processing generates the display switching instruction to the 261IN control interference time display image. Then, the output signal processing unit 300D transmits the generated display switching instruction to the metering device 20 via the communication network 50.
[0210]Therefore, on the display screen 260 of the liquid crystal display device 26, the control interference time display image 261IN shown in Figure 6 is displayed instead of the right direction rendering image 261RC on display .
[0211]Subsequently, as shown in Figure 13, when the ATC or AEB operation flag switches to the OFF state at a time t6, the output signal processing unit 300D generates the display termination instruction. Then, the output signal processing unit 300D transmits the generated display termination instruction to the metering device 20 via the communication network 50.
[0212]Therefore, on the display screen 260 of the liquid crystal display device 26, the standard image 261DF shown in Figure 5 is displayed instead of the display image of control interference time 261IN being displayed.
[0213] As described above, in this mode, when the AEB ATC operation flag is set, three images, the 261IN control interference time display image, the left direction rendering image 261LC, and the 261LC rendering image 261RC right steering are displayed in switched mode, thus the driver is notified that the ATC or AEB steering assistance control is in operation. [SMB steering assistance control operation time display control operation]
[0214] The following describes a display control operation on the SMB steering assistance control operating time based on Figures 9A to 9E and Figure 15. Figure 15 is a time graph to explain an example of the display control operation in the SMB steering assistance control operating time.
[0215]As shown in Figure 15, the SMB switch is turned ON at time t1, thus the SMB operation flag switches to the ON state.
[0216] In this way, the display time delay processing unit 300C reads the minimum display time information (in the present document, defined as a minimum display time tminS), which corresponds to the control of SMB direction aid, from the rendering information storage memory 302. Then, the display time delay processing unit 300C enters the minimum read display time tminS and the operating flags entered to the display processing unit. 300D output signal.
[0217]Once it is determined that the SMB operation flag, which is input from the display time delay processing unit 300C, has switched to the ON state, the output signal processing unit 300D reads the display pattern information, which corresponds to the SMB steering assistance control, from the rendering information storage memory 302. Then, based on the display pattern information read, the output signal processing unit 300D generates a display start instruction for the rendering image corresponding to the SMB steering assistance control.
[0218]Specifically, at time t1, the output signal processing unit 300D generates an SMB1 display start instruction for a 261SMB1 rendering image. Then, the output signal processing unit 300D transmits the generated display start instruction SMB1 to the measuring device 20 through the communication network 50. Meanwhile, the output signal processing unit 300D issues the start instruction for the operation. counts to the 304 display time measurement timer, and starts the counting operation by the 304 display time measurement timer.
[0219] However, upon receipt of the SMB1 display start instruction, the meter controller 28 of the metering device 20 reads the information in the 261SMB1 rendering image, which corresponds to the received SMB1 display start instruction, from the rendering image storage memory 29 based on received SMB1 display start instruction.
[0220] Furthermore, the meter controller 28 acquires the variety of information, which must be displayed in the first display region 260A, second display region 260B and fourth display region 260D of the display screen 260, through the 50 communication network from other controllers, instruments, and the like. Then, the meter controller 28 generates an SMB1 image display signal from the image, which is to be displayed on the display screen 260, based on the reading information in the SMB1 rendering image and the variety of information acquired, and input the generated image display signal SMB1 to the liquid crystal display device 26.
[0221]Therefore, the rendering image 261SMB1 shown in Figure 9A is displayed on the display screen 260 of the liquid crystal display device 26.
[0222]Subsequently, once it is determined that a predefined display time has elapsed based on the count value of the display time measurement timer 304, the output signal processing unit 300D generates an instruction of SMB2 display start for a 261SMB2 rendering image. That is, at a time t2 shown in Figure 15, the output signal processing unit 300D generates the SMB2 display start instruction for a 261SMB2 rendering image, and transmits the generated SMB2 display start instruction to the device meter 20 through the communication network 50.
[0223]Therefore, on the display screen 260 of the liquid crystal display device 26, the rendering image 261SMB2 shown in Figure 9B is displayed instead of the rendering image 261SMB1 shown in Figure 9A.
[0224]Subsequently, based on the count value of the display time measurement timer 304, the output signal processing unit 300D generates an SMB3 display start instruction for a 261SMB3 rendering image in one time t3 after the elapse of the preset display time from the time t2 shown in Figure 15. Then, the output signal processing unit 300D transmits the generated SMB3 display start instruction to the measuring device 20 through the communication network 50.
[0225]Therefore, on the display screen 260 of the liquid crystal display device 26, the rendering image 261SMB3 shown in Figure 9B is displayed instead of the rendering image 261SMB2 shown in Figure 9B.
[0226]Subsequently, based on the count value of the display time measurement timer 304, the output signal processing unit 300D generates an SMB4 display start instruction for a 261SMB4 rendering image in one time t4 after the elapse of the preset display time from the time t3 shown in Figure 15. Then, the output signal processing unit 300D transmits the generated SMB4 display start instruction to the measuring device 20 through the communication network 50.
[0227]Therefore, on the display screen 260 of the liquid crystal display device 26, the rendering image 261SMB4 shown in Figure 9D is displayed instead of the rendering image 261SMB3 shown in Figure 9C.
[0228]Subsequently, based on the count value of the display time measurement timer 304, the output signal processing unit 300D generates an SMB5 display start instruction for a 261SMB5 rendering image in one time t5 after the elapse of the preset display time from the time t4 shown in Figure 15. Then, the output signal processing unit 300D transmits the generated SMB5 display start instruction to the measuring device 20 through the communication network 50.
[0229]Therefore, on the display screen 260 of the liquid crystal display device 26, the rendering image 261SMB5 shown in Figure 9E is displayed instead of the rendering image 261SMB4 shown in Figure 9D.
[0230]That is, in a predefined display time interval, the 261SMB1 to 261SMB5 render images are continuously displayed in an order from the 261SMB1 render image through the 261SMB2 render image, of the render image 261SMB3 and from the 261SMB4 render image to the 261SMB5 render image. In this way, the animation display is performed, in which the left side effect display regions AL1 to AL4 and the right side effect display regions AR1 to AR4 are subjected to light emission display from the sides close to the vehicle image 261b.
[0231] Note that, as shown in Figure 15, upon displaying the 261SMB5 rendering image, the display controller 30 performs a display control to maintain the display of the 261SMB5 rendering image during the assist control operation. SMB direction.
[0232]Later, when the driver turns OFF the SMB switch, then, as shown in Figure 15, the SMB operation flag switches to the OFF state at a time t6.
[0233]In this way, the output signal processing unit 300D determines that the inserted SMB operation flag has toggled to the OFF state. Then, next, at a predefined display time interval, the output signal processing unit 300D performs a display control to continuously display the 261SMB1 to SMB5 rendering images in an order from the 261SMB5 rendering image through the Render image 261SMB4, Render Image 261SMB3 and Render Image 261SMB2 to Render Image 261SMB1.
[0234]That is, once it is determined that the SMB operation flag has toggled to the OFF state, the output signal processing unit 300D generates the SMB4 display start instruction for the 261SMB4 rendering image. That is, at time t6 shown in Figure 15, the output signal processing unit 300D generates the SMB4 display start instruction for the rendering image 261SMB4, and transmits the generated SMB4 display start instruction to the metering device 20 through of the communication network 50. Meanwhile, the output signal processing unit 300D issues the reset instruction to the display time measurement timer 304 and resets the count value, in addition, it subsequently issues the instruction of start for counting operation by display time measurement timer 304, and start counting operation by display time measurement timer 304.
[0235]Therefore, on the display screen 260 of the liquid crystal display device 26, the rendering image 261SMB4 shown in Figure 9D is displayed instead of the rendering image 261SMB5 shown in Figure 9E.
[0236]Subsequently, once it is determined that the preset display time has elapsed based on the count value of display time measurement timer 304, output signal processing unit 300D generates display start instruction SMB3 for the 261SMB3 rendering image. That is, at a time t7 shown in Figure 15, the output signal processing unit 300D generates the SMB3 display start instruction for the 261SMB3 rendering image, and transmits the generated SMB3 display start instruction to the metering device 20 through the communication network 50.
[0237]Therefore, on the display screen 260 of the liquid crystal display device 26, the rendering image 261SMB3 shown in Figure 9C is displayed instead of the rendering image 261SMB4 shown in Figure 9D.
[0238]Subsequently, based on the count value of display time measurement timer 304, output signal processing unit 300D generates display start instruction SMB2 for rendering image 261SMB2 at a time t8 after the preset display time has elapsed from the time t7 shown in Figure 15. Then, the output signal processing unit 300D transmits the generated display start instruction SMB2 to the measuring device 20 via the communication network 50.
[0239]Therefore, on the display screen 260 of the liquid crystal display device 26, the rendering image 261SMB2 shown in Figure 9B is displayed instead of the rendering image 261SMB3 shown in Figure 9C.
[0240]Subsequently, based on the count value of the display time measurement timer 304, the output signal processing unit 300D generates the display start instruction SMB1 for the rendering image 261SMB2 at a time t9 after the preset display time has elapsed from the time t8 shown in Figure 15. Then, the output signal processing unit 300D transmits the generated display start instruction SMB1 to the metering device 20 via the communication network 50.
[0241]Therefore, on the display screen 260 of the liquid crystal display device 26, the rendering image 261SMB1 shown in Figure 9A is displayed instead of the rendering image 261SMB2 shown in Figure 9B.
[0242]Subsequently, based on the count value of the display time measurement timer 304, the output signal processing unit 300D generates the display start instruction DF for the standard image 261DF at one time t10 after the elapse of the preset display time from the time t9 shown in Figure 15. Then, the output signal processing unit 300D transmits the generated display start instruction DF to the measuring device 20 via the communication network 50.
[0243]Therefore, on the display screen 260 of the liquid crystal display device 26, the default image 261DF shown in Figure 5 is displayed instead of the rendering image 261SMB1 shown in Figure 9A. [HSA steering assistance control operation time display control operation]
[0244] The following describes a display control operation in the HSA steering assistance control operating time based on Figures 16 and 17A. Figure 16 is a graph showing an example of time changes of vehicle speed Vd, degree of brake pedal operation Bd, brake fluid pressure, and HSA operation flag in an operating scene of an HSA steering assistance control. Figure 17 is a view showing an example of progress of the display content of the display screen 260 and an illumination state of the indicator lamp 240HSA for HSA in relation to the progress of the moving state of the automobile V and an operating state. driver pedal in the HSA steering assistance control operation scene.
[0245]As shown in Figure 16, when the driver presses the brake pedal 16 at a time t1 while the car V is traveling on an ascending surface (this displacement is captured by a tilt sensor), the BHS information , which indicate the depressed state of the brake pedal 16, are transmitted from the steering aid device 40 through the communication network 50 to the display controller 30. However, as shown in Figure 16, due to the fact that the pedal 16 is pressed, a brake fluid pressure rises, and the brake is activated. In this way, the vehicle speed Vd decreases.
[0246] As shown in Figure 16, in a state where vehicle speed Vd continues to decrease for a period from time t1 to t2 because brake pedal 16 is pressed, the HSA operation flag switches to the OFF state. Therefore, the input processing unit 300A determines that the HSA steering assistance control is not operating. Furthermore, other steering assistance controls are not operating, and the 300D output signal processing unit implements display control processing for the standard 261DF image. Thus, as shown in a liquid crystal display screen column corresponding to a brake status column in Figure 17, the default image 261DF is displayed on the display screen 260 of the liquid crystal display device 26. In addition Furthermore, since the HSA operation flag switches to the OFF state, the indicator lamp 240HSA for HSA switches to the off state as shown in an indicator display content column corresponding to the braking state column in Figure 17.
[0247] Next, as shown in Figure 16, when the vehicle speed Vd becomes 0 at a time t3 in the state where the brake pedal 16 is pressed, the HSA operation flag switches to the state ON at a time t4 after elapses (eg after approximately 1 [s]) of a preset time. That is, the HSA operating flag in the ON state and the other operating flags in the OFF state are transmitted from the steering aid device 40 via the communication network 50 to the display controller 30.
[0248]In this way, the input signal processing unit 300A determines that the HSA operation flag has switched to the ON state based on the received operation flags. In addition, input processing unit 300A determines that brake pedal 16 is pressed based on the received BHS information. In this way, the input processing unit 300A reads the display pattern information, which corresponds to the steering assistance control HSA, from the rendering information storage memory 302. Then, the input processing unit 300A generates the HSA(S) display start instruction for the HSA steering aid control 261HSA(S) rendering image and an illumination display instruction for the 240HSA indicator lamp for HSA. Furthermore, the input processing unit 300A transmits the rendering display instruction for HSA, which includes the generated HSA(S) display start instruction and the lighting display instruction, to the metering device 20 via the network of communication 50.
[0249] However, the meter controller 28 of the meter device 20 receives the rendering display instruction for HSA, which comes from the 300A input processing unit and includes the display start instruction HSA(S) and the lighting display instruction. Based on the rendering display instruction received for HSA, the meter controller 28 reads the information in the rendering image 261HSA(S), which corresponds to the display start instruction HSA(S), from the image storage memory of rendering 29. In addition, meter controller 28 acquires a variety of information, which must be displayed in first display region 260A, second display region 260B, and fourth display region 260D of display screen 260, through from the communication network 50 from other controllers, instruments, and the like. The meter controller 28 then generates an image display signal HSA(S) of the image, which is to be displayed on the display screen 260, with based on the read information in the HSA(S) rendering image and a variety of acquired information, and input the generated HSA(S) image display signal to the liquid crystal display device 26. Simultaneously, 28 meter controller inserts the illumination display instruction for the indicator lamp 240HSA to the indicator 24b of the second meter 24.
[0250]Therefore, as shown in a liquid crystal display screen column corresponding to a vehicle stop state column in Figure 17, the rendering image 261HSA(S) is displayed on the display device 260 display screen. liquid crystal display 26. That is, the 261HSA(S) rendering image is displayed, in which the tire portions of the 263SFL and 263SBL wheel images are displayed so that they are illuminated. In addition, the 240HSA indicator lamp switches to the illuminated state as shown in an indicator display content column corresponding to the vehicle stop status column in Figure 17.
[0251] Next, as shown in Figure 16, when the driver releases the brake pedal 16 at a time t4 while the car V is stopped on the ascending lane by the driver's braking, the pressure hold operation starts. of brake fluid by the HSA steering assistance control. In this way, the brake fluid pressure is maintained for a period (eg 2 [s] maximum) from a time t4 to a time t5, and this stopped state of the automobile V is maintained. Furthermore, the BHS information indicating that the brake pedal 16 is in a released state is transmitted from the steering aid device 40 via the communication network 50 to the display controller 30.
[0252]Based on the received HSA and BHS operation flag information, the 300A input processing unit determines that the brake pedal 16 has switched to the released state during the HSA steering assistance control operation. In this way, the input processing unit 300A generates the display start instruction HSA(O) for the rendering image 261HSA(O) and the flashing display instruction for the indicator lamp 240HSA. Furthermore, the input processing unit 300A transmits the rendering display instruction for HSA, which includes the generated display start instruction HSA(O) and the flashing display instruction, to the metering device 20 via the communication network 50.
[0253] However, the meter controller 28 of the meter device 20 receives the rendering display instruction for HSA, which comes from the 300A input processing unit and includes the display start instruction HSA(O) and the flashing display instruction. Based on the rendering display instruction received for HSA, the meter controller 28 reads the information in the rendering image 261HSA(O), which corresponds to the display start instruction HSA(O), from the image storage memory rendering mode 29. In addition, the meter controller 28 acquires the variety of information, which is to be displayed in the first display region 260A, second display region 260B, and fourth display region 260D of the display screen 260, over the network. from other controllers, instruments, and the like. Then, the meter controller 28 generates an HSA(O) image display signal from the image, which is to be displayed on the display screen 260, based on the reading information in the HSA(O) rendering image and the variety of information. acquired, and inputs the generated image display signal HSA(O) to the liquid crystal display device 26. Simultaneously, the meter controller 28 inputs the flashing display instruction for the indicator lamp 240HSA to the indicator 24b of the second meter 24.
[0254]Therefore, as shown in a liquid crystal display screen column corresponding to a brake fluid pressure hold state column in Figure 17, the 261HSA(O) rendering image is displayed on the display screen 260 of the liquid crystal display device 26. That is, in the 261HSA(O) rendering image, the tire portions of the 263SFL and 263SBL wheel images are displayed blinking. In addition, the 240HSA indicator lamp is displayed to flash as shown in an indicator display content column corresponding to the vehicle brake fluid pressure hold status column in Figure 17.
[0255]Subsequently, as shown in Figure 16, when the driver presses the accelerator pedal (not shown) at a time t5, the HSA steering assistance control does not come into operation, and the fluid pressure of brake becomes 0. That is, the HSA operating flag switches to the OFF state, and the HSA operating flag in the OFF state and the other operating flags in the OFF state are transmitted from the steering aid device 40 via from the communication network 50 to the display controller 30. Thereby, the input processing unit 300A determines that the steering assistance control HSA is not operating. Furthermore, the output signal processing unit 300D determines that all operation flags are in the OFF state, and implements display control processing for the standard image 261DF. Thus, as shown in a liquid crystal display screen column corresponding to a vehicle departure status column in Figure 17, the default image 261DF is displayed on the display screen 260 of the liquid crystal display device 26. In addition Furthermore, since the HSA operation flag switches to the OFF state, the 240HSA indicator lamp switches to the off state as shown in an indicator display content column corresponding to the vehicle start status column in Figure 17.
[0256] In the present document, in this modality, a function of the display controller 30, which consists of determining the operating state of the steering assistance control based on the operating flag, corresponds to a state determination unit of operation. A function of the display controller 30, which is to display the help state display image, corresponds to a display control unit. A function in the input processing unit 300A, which consists of detecting the driving direction, corresponds to a steering angle detection unit.
[0257] Furthermore, in this modality, the mesh images 261a, 261e and 261h, the left side effect display regions AL1 to AL4, the right side effect display regions AR1 to AR4 and the effect display region 265 correspond to the background image. In addition, left curve mesh image 261c (including effect display regions 264LL and 264RL) and right curve mesh image 261d (including effect display regions 264LR and 264RR) correspond to Background image. (Effects of the first modality)
[0258]According to this modality, it becomes possible to exercise the effects described below. (92) The display controller 30 detects the operating state of the steering aid control implemented by the automotive steering aid device 40. The display controller 30 displays the aid state display image, which consists of an image having a configuration in which the vehicle image 261b is superimposed on the background image (e.g., mesh image 261a) as a flat image with a predetermined shape, on the liquid crystal display device 26 provided on the gauge panel 21 of the meter device 20. Once it is determined that steering assistance control is enabled, display controller 30 performs display control to change the display mode of mesh image 261a from the assist state display image , which must be displayed on the liquid crystal display device 26, for the preset display mode.
[0259]The display mode of the background image (eg mesh image 261a) is changed, thus the driver is notified about the activation of the steering aid device 40. That is, the display mode does not insignificant portions of the vehicle image 261b but the image (eg mesh image 261a) of the background portion is changed, and correspondingly it becomes possible for the driver to understand the change of display content by the mo. instant movement of the line of sight and the peripheral visual field without observing the display content. In this way, even in the situation where the drive load is large, it becomes possible to accurately notify the driver that the steering assistance control is operating without disturbing him. (93) The background image is configured to include the mesh image 261a, which consists of a flat mesh image and the gradation images (eg, display effect regions 264LL to RR, and 265).
[0260] In this way, it becomes possible to display the operating state of the steering assistance control by changing the display mode of the flat mesh image, the gradation image, or the like. As a result, it becomes possible to carry out an image display that further facilitates the driver to understand the changing display content. (94) The image of vehicle 261b is adjusted so that it is an image from a top-down viewpoint of the vehicle from the upper rear of the vehicle in question.
[0261] The background image (mesh image 261a) is set to be an image with a shape, which is extended in the far and near direction while defining the longitudinal direction of the vehicle of the vehicle image 261b as the far direction and near, and has a wider width in the direction perpendicular to the far and near direction facing the near side and a narrower width in it facing the far side.
[0262] In this way, a composition is formed in which the vehicle moves towards the far side in the background image, and it becomes possible to display in a display mode in which the background image is similar to a highway, for example, deforming the background image into a curved shape in the yaw direction of the vehicle. Hence, even in the situation where the drive load is relatively large, it becomes possible to accurately notify the driver that the steering assistance control is operating without disturbing him. (95) Once it is determined that steering assistance control is enabled, display controller 30 performs display control to change the display color of the portion of the background image (mesh image 261a) within a range. distance, which is preset from the 261b vehicle image of the help status display image, to the preset display color.
[0263] That is, by changing the display color of this portion of the background image, the driver is notified that the steering assistance control is operating, and, correspondingly, it becomes possible for the driver to understand the Easily change display content by instantaneous line-of-sight movement and peripheral visual field without observing the display content. In this way, it becomes possible for the driver to easily recognize that the steering aid control is operating without observing the display content. (96) The display controller 30 determines whether at least one of the steering assistance control (ATC), which is configured to activate while automobile V is traveling along a curved road, and control the respective wheels of the vehicle. vehicle to reduce the yaw deflection delay, and the steering assistance control (AEB), which consists of adding deceleration to the vehicle to reduce the drive load when traveling along a curved road, is activated or not. . Once it is determined that at least one steer assist control is enabled, the display controller 30 performs the display control to change the format of the background image (mesh image 261a) from the assist state display image, which must be displayed on the liquid crystal display device 26, to a curved shape (left curve mesh image 261LC, right curve mesh image 261RC) curved in the driving direction which is based on the detected direction angle θs by steering angle sensor 3.
[0264] That is, in relation to the steering assistance control in which the operating scene is defined, for example, while the car V is traveling along a curved road, the background image portion is changed to the format corresponding to the operation scene in addition to changing the display color on the periphery of the vehicle image. In this way, it becomes possible for the driver to more easily understand the change of display content by the instantaneous movement of the line of sight and the peripheral visual field without observing the display content. Hence, it becomes possible for the driver to more easily recognize that the steering assistance control is operating without observing the display content. (97) The display controller 30 superimposes and displays the images (263FL, 263FR, 263BL and 263BR wheel images) with the wheel shape at the wheel positions on the 261b vehicle image of the assist status display image while the controls steer assistance (ATC, AEB) activated during yaw operation of automobile V are in operation. The display controller 30 performs display control to display the 263FL, 263FR, 263BL, and 263BR wheel images by the preset display color that exerts the display effect that allows the 263FL, 263FR, 263BL, and 263BR wheel images to appear to be emitting light.
[0265] That is, after interference from the steering assistance control (ATC or AEB) activated while car V is traveling along a curved road, the wheel images 263FL, 263FR, 263BL and 263BR are submitted to the four-wheel light-emitting display (the 261IN control interference-type display image is displayed). Thus, in the situation where the drive load is relatively small before car V approaches the curved road, the driver visually recognizes the display content subjected to the four-wheel illumination display, and can thereby, know that control interferes. Subsequently, in the situation where the drive load is relatively large, for example during the yaw operation, the deformation display and the light emission display for the background image are performed, and correspondingly makes It is possible for the driver to easily understand the changing of the display content by the instantaneous movement of the line of sight and the peripheral visual field without observing the display content. Therefore, it becomes possible for the driver to more easily recognize that the steering assistance control is operating without observing the display content. (98) Once it has been determined that the steering assistance control (SMB), which is activated while car V is traveling on a straight road, and should enhance ride stability relative to steering angle, is activated , the display controller 30 changes the format of the background image (mesh image 261a) from the help state display image, which is to be displayed on the liquid crystal display device 26, to the U-shaped image (image of mesh 261h), wherein both ends of the background image (mesh image 261a) in the direction perpendicular to the far and near direction are raised, and the walls surrounding the transverse side surfaces of the vehicle image 261b are formed. The display controller 30 divides the image portions of the mesh image 261h, which are placed within predefined distance ranges from the vehicle image 261b, into the plurality of regions in the direction perpendicular to the far and near direction. With respect to the plurality of split regions (left side effect display regions AL1 to AL4, right side effect display regions RL1 to RL4), the display controller 30 performs the display control for change its current display color to other preset colors sequentially from the split regions on the side near the 261b vehicle image to the split regions on the far side from it.
[0266] That is, through the animation display by changing the display color, this rendering display is performed in which the walls are formed step by step on both sides of the vehicle image. In this way, the driver can easily understand the changing display content by the peripheral visual field without observing the display content, and furthermore, it becomes possible for the driver to easily recognize which type of steering assistance controls is activated. (99) The display controller 30 performs display control to change the display color of the portion of background image within the distance range, which is preset from the vehicle image 261b, to the preset display color it exerts. the display effect that allows the portion of the background image to appear to be emitting light.
[0267]That is, the portion of the image within the preset distance range from the vehicle image in the background image is changed to color (eg highly bright or highly light color compared to the color of the other region) exerting the display effect that allows the portion of the image to appear to be emitting light. Thereby, the driver can easily understand the changing of the display content by the peripheral visual field without observing the display content, and correspondingly it becomes possible for the driver to easily understand that the steering aid control is operating. (100) Once it is determined that the steering assistance control 40 is operating, the display controller 30 performs the display control to display the assist status display image, which is the image to notify the driver that the steering assistance control 40 is operating on the liquid crystal display device 26. In addition, the display controller 30 performs the display control to display the assist state display image on the liquid crystal display device 26. continuously at least until the preset minimum display time tmin has elapsed.
[0268]In the present document, the operating time of the steering assistance control is varied, and depending on the operating situation, the steering assistance control only operates for a short time. If the assist-state display image is only displayed for a short time for that steering-assist control which operates for a relatively short time, then the assist-state display image is displayed momentarily. This display becomes a display from which the driver cannot recognize a content of the display, the display bothers the driver.
[0269] That is, the minimum display time tmin is set, for example, at an appropriate time to allow the driver to recognize the display content, and the display of the help state display image is performed continuously by the less until the minimum display time tmin has elapsed. This makes it possible for the driver to recognize which type of steering assistance controls are activated without feeling uncomfortable. (101) The display controller 30 performs the display control to continuously display the assist state display image, which corresponds to the operational steering assistance control, on the liquid crystal display device 26 while the control the steering aid in question is operating, and furthermore continues to display the aid state display image, which corresponds to the operating steering aid control, on the liquid crystal display device 26 until the display time minimum tmin has elapsed once it is determined that the operational steering assistance control ends before the preset minimum display time tmin has elapsed.
[0270]This makes it possible for the driver to recognize which type of steering assistance controls are activated without feeling uncomfortable. (102) Minimum display time tmin is set for each type of steering assistance controls.
[0271]The minimum display time tmin is set for each of the steering assistance controls, so, for example, in relation to steering assistance control with a relatively large drive load, it becomes possible to adopt this flexible display mode, for example, to enhance visibility by extending the display time of the help state display image. (103) The display controller 30 detects the operating state of the steering assistance control implemented by the automotive steering assistance device 40. Once it is determined that the steering assistance control is activated, the display controller 30 performs the display control to display the assist status display image, which is the image to notify the driver that the steering assistance control is enabled, on the display device. Once it is determined that the drive load at the time of having determined that the steering assistance control is activated is relatively large, the display controller 30 performs the display control to display that load time assistance state display image high with the composition in which a first image of the vehicle (vehicle image 261b, and the like) seen from the top-down viewpoint of the vehicle from the upper rear is superimposed on the background image (eg. the mesh image 261a), and furthermore to display the background image portion in the preset display mode. Once it is determined that the drive load at the time of holding determined that the steering assistance control is activated is relatively small, the display controller 30 performs the display control to display that load time assistance state display image low (261HSA or 261HDC rendering image) including the second vehicle image (261f or 261h vehicle image) obtained by visualizing the side surface of the vehicle frontally in the drawing, and, in addition, displaying wheel portions of the second vehicle image in the default display mode.
[0272] For example, when the vehicle speed of automobile V is relatively high, automobile V performs the yaw operation, automobile V overcomes irregularities that provide a large input, and so on, situations occur where the drive load is relatively large. In these situations, as described above, it becomes difficult for the driver to observe the display screen of the liquid crystal display device 26, and recognize the detailed display content thereon. However, when car V is stopped in the lane of an ascending lane with a steep gradient, and is started from that stopped state, car V travels downhill with a steep gradient, on a snowy road, and the like, at a speed relatively low vehicle load, and so on, situations occur where the drive load is relatively small. In these situations, as described above, it becomes relatively easy for the driver to see the display screen 260 of the liquid crystal display device 26 and recognize the display content thereon.
[0273]Correspondingly, in the case where the trigger load at the time when the steering assistance control is activated is relatively large, the high load time assistance state display image is displayed, which includes the first image of the vehicle seen from the top-down viewpoint of the vehicle from the upper rear, and has the composition in which the first image of the vehicle is arranged in the background image (flat mesh-like image). In addition, the background image portion is displayed in the preset display mode, for example, performing light emission for the background image portion at the periphery of the first vehicle image. Thereby, it becomes possible for the driver to recognize that the steering assistance control is operating by the instantaneous movement of the line of sight and the peripheral visual field without observing the display screen 260 of the liquid crystal display device 26.
[0274]However, in the case where the drive load at the time when the steering assistance control is activated is relatively small, the low load time assistance state display image including the second is displayed. vehicle image in which the side of the vehicle is seen from the front in the drawing and the wheel image portions are displayed in the default display mode, for example, performing the light emitting display or the flashing display for the tire portions of the wheel images in the second vehicle image. Thereby, it becomes possible for the driver to recognize the relatively detailed operating situation of the steering assistance control from the display contents of the display screen 260 of the liquid crystal display device 26. (104) The assistance control Includes a time difference type steering aid control, which is activated in a mode of p when a first predefined condition is established (for example, when the car V is stopped in a state where the driver presses the brake pedal 16), and switches to a control execution state when a second preset condition is set (when the driver releases the brake pedal 16) in the ready state. Once determined that this drive load at a time of having determined that the time difference type steering assistance control (eg HSA steering assistance control) is activated in the standby state is relatively small, the display controller 30 performs the display control to display this low load time aid state display image, and furthermore display the wheel portions of the second vehicle image in the display image. tion of low load time aid state by the display color exerting the display effect that allows the tire portions to appear to be emitting light (for example, the 261HSA(S) rendering image is subjected to the illumination display. wheel mining). Once it is determined that this drive load at a time of having determined that the time difference type steering assistance control changes from the ready state to the operating state is relatively small, the display controller 30 performs the display control to alternately repeat the display of the wheel portions of the second vehicle image in the low load time aid state display image by the display color that exerts the display effect that allows the wheel portions appear to be emitting light and the display of the wheel portions in question by the display color exerting the display color that allows the wheel portions to appear to be erased (for example, the 261HSA(O) rendering image is sub -switched to the flashing wheel display).
[0275] In this way, it becomes possible to carry out a high visibility information display for this steering assistance control, which switches to the ready state (activation preparation state) when the brake pedal 16 is pressed and the car V is stopped, and subsequently switches to the operating state by releasing the brake pedal 16, for example, as the HSA steering assistance control which is activated in the situation where the drive load is relatively small. (105) This low load time assist state display image (261HSA or 261HDC rendering image) which corresponds to the steering assistance control (HSA, HDC, and similar steering assistance controls) is allowed. res) enabled on the slope, has a setting that includes a slope display line (ascending lane display line 266 or descending lane display line 267) consisting of a slope line indicating the slope, in the which second vehicle image (vehicle image 261f or 261h) is arranged so that the hillside display line can be adjusted as being a plane of the tire portions of the second vehicle image.
[0276] In this way, it becomes possible for the driver to easily recognize that the steering assistance control to be active on the hillside is operating by observing the display screen 260 of the liquid crystal display device 26. (Second Mode)
[0277] Next, a second embodiment of the present invention is described based on the drawings. Figures 18 to 20 are views showing an embodiment of a display control device for a vehicle and a display control method for a vehicle in accordance with the second embodiment of the present invention. (Settings)
[0278] In the first mode described above, this setting is adopted, in which, in a case where another steering assistance control is activated during an operation of a given steering assistance control, the first display image of display aid state is immediately switched to the second aid state display picture corresponding to the subsequently activated steering aid control, and the second aid state display picture is displayed. In contrast, in this mode, when it is determined that the display time of the previously displayed first aid state display image has not elapsed beyond a predefined switching display time, the display of the first state display image help display is continuously displayed until the switching display time has elapsed. The second mode is different from the first mode described above in that the second help state display image is displayed later.
[0279]Note that the same numerical references are assigned to settings similar to those of the first modality described above, and a duplicate description of these is omitted.
[0280]Figure 18 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a display controller 30 of this mode.
[0281]As shown in Figure 18, the display controller 30 of this mode includes: a display control ECU 300; a rendering information storage memory 302; a display time measurement timer 304; and an order-of-operation storage memory 306.
[0282]Operation order storage memory 306 is a memory that stores an operating order of the steering assistance controls.
[0283]The 300 display control ECU has a configuration including a 300A input processing unit and a 300B display control unit. Further, in this mode, the display control unit 300B has a configuration including a display time delay processing unit 300C, an output signal processing unit 300D, and an order decision unit 300E.
[0284]Once it is determined that the steering assistance control is operating based on the entered operation flag, the display time delay processing unit 300C reads the minimum display time information, which corresponds to the steering aid control determined to be operative, from the rendering information storage memory 302. Then, the display time delay processing unit 300C inputs the minimum display time information to the signal processing unit output 300D, and inserts the operation flag inserted to the order decision unit 300E.
[0285] The order decision unit 300E stores the operation order of the steering aid controls in the operation order storage memory 306 based on the operation flag entered from the time delay processing unit of 300C display. Then, based on the stored operation order, the order decision unit 300E decides the display order of the assist state display images corresponding to the respective steering assistance controls.
[0286] In this modality, in a case where only one steering assistance control is operating, and in a case where any of the steering assistance controls are not operating, the order 300E decision unit inserts information, which indicate matters of these cases to the output signal processing unit 300D.
[0287] Furthermore, in a case where two or more types of steering assistance controls are activated continuously in an overlapping manner, the order decision unit 300E defines the order of operation, which is stored in order storage memory of operation 306, as a display order, and inputs information in the display order to the output signal processing unit 300D.
[0288] Additionally, in a case where two or more types of steering assistance controls are activated simultaneously, the order decision unit 300E decides the display order in response to the operating conditions of the steering assistance controls. The order decision unit 300E inserts information in the display order decided to the output signal processing unit 300D.
[0289] In this document, for example, the operating conditions of the steering assistance controls include: those established in response to those that the driver operates a drive operator, such as steering wheel 1; those established in response to an input from a disturbance; and the like. In this mode, as well as this steering assistance control in which operating conditions are established in response to the operation of the drive operator, for example, the ATC and AEB steering assistance controls, which are activated in response to the operation of the drive. steering wheel 1, are applicable. However, in this mode, as well as the steering assistance control in which the operating conditions are established in response to the input of the disturbance, for example, the ARC steering assistance control, which is activated in response to the overcoming (input) of irregularities (disturbances) of the road surface, and the like, are applicable.
[0290] In this modality, in a case where this steering assistance control is prepared for operation as a steering assistance control, in which the control intervenes in response to the operation of the drive operator by the operator, and a control of Steering aids prepared for disturbance as a steering aid control, in which the control intervenes in response to disturbance input, are activated simultaneously, then priority is given to the steering aid control prepared for operation. That is, the order decision unit 300E decides the display order of the aid state display image, which corresponds to the steering aid control prepared for operation, to an order prior to the display order of the state display image assistance, which corresponds to the disturbance-prepared steering assistance control.
[0291] Next, in the case where two tires or more of the steering assistance controls are activated continuously in an overlapping manner, the 300D output signal processing unit of this mode performs the display control based on the time of preset tsw switching display for each type of steering assistance control. In this mode, the switching display time tsw is set to a time shorter than the minimum display time tmin described in the first mode described above. For example, in a case where the minimum display time tmin is set to 2.5 [s], the switching display time tsw is set, for example, to 2.0 [s], and the like. That is, although the minimum display time tmin is a time to enhance driver recognition for the display content, this switching display time tsw is a time to solve this nuisance, which is provided to the driver, by switching the display in a short time. Specifically, in the first mode described above, the assistance status display image, which corresponds to the steering assistance control subsequently initiated to be activated, is displayed after being immediately switched from the guidance status display image. previously displayed help. At this time, in a case where the display time of the previously displayed help state display image is ex-tremely short, the previous help state display image is displayed at one time, and later, the image is displayed. of subsequent help state display. Therefore, the driver cannot recognize what was displayed, and feels annoyed.
[0292] In this embodiment, through the display time measurement timer 304, the output signal processing unit 300D measures a display time of an aid state display image (hereinafter referred to as a first aid display image. aid state), which corresponds to the steering aid control (hereinafter referred to as a first aid steering control) previously initiated to be activated. Based on the display time measured in this way, the output signal processing unit 300D determines whether or not the display time of the first aid state display image has elapsed beyond the switching display time tsw (hereinafter referred to as a pre-set first switching display time tsw1) for the first steering assistance control. In a case where it has determined that the switching display time tsw1 has not elapsed by this determination, the output signal processing unit 300D performs display control to display the help state display image continuously until the first switching display time tsw1 has elapsed.
[0293]Subsequently, the output signal processing unit 300D performs the display control to display an aid state display image (hereinafter referred to as a second aid state display image), which corresponds to the control. steer assist control (hereinafter referred to as a second steer assist control) subsequently initiated to be activated, in the liquid crystal display device 26. Also at this time, the output signal processing unit 300D measures the time of display by display time measurement timer 304. Then, based on the time measured in this way, the output signal processing unit 300D of that mode performs display control to display at least the second aid state display image until a preset switching display time tsw (hereafter referred to as a second switching display time tsw2) for the second steering assistance control has elapsed.
[0294]A display control for the second help state display image is described below.
[0295]First, a case is described where the operating time of the second steering assistance control is the minimum display time tmin or less. In this case, it is further assumed that, in relation to the time from when the second steering assistance control is activated until the minimum display time tmin elapses, one time (hereinafter referred to as a second display time tsh2) from when the second steering assistance control is activated until the minimum display time tmin elapses is shorter than the second minimum display time tsw2. In that case, the output signal processing unit 300D performs display control to display the second help state display image continuously until the second switching display time tsw2 has elapsed.
[0296] However, in a case where the second display time tsh2 is a time equal to or greater than the second switching display time tsw2, then, in this mode, the output signal processing unit 300D performs display control to display the second help state display image until the second tsh2 display time has elapsed.
[0297] The following describes a case where the operating time of the second steering assistance control becomes greater than the minimum display time tmin, and the display time of the second assistance state display image becomes greater than the second switching display time tsw2. Also in this modality, similarly to the first modality described above, the display control to continuously display the aid state display image corresponding to the steering aid control in operation is performed during the operation of the aid control steering. Then, the output signal processing unit 300D performs the display control to display the second aid state display image continuously until the second steer aid control is terminated.
[0298]Note that the setting is not limited to the setting to display the second help state display image for at least the second switching display time tsw2 or greater, and a setting can be adopted in which at least minus the second aid state display image is displayed, and thereafter is continuously displayed until the preset minimum display time for the second steering aid control has elapsed.
[0299]Moreover, the switching display time tsw is similarly set also for a standard image. For example, it is assumed that another steering assistance control is activated before the preset tsw switching display time for the default image elapses after the display returns to the default image after a certain steering assistance control ends. . In this case, the output signal processing unit 300D displays the standard image continuously until the preset switching display time tsw for the standard image has elapsed.
[0300]Furthermore, in this mode, the information about the switching display time is included in the display pattern information stored in the rendering information storage memory 302.
[0301]However, in a case where the steering aid control prepared for operation and the steering aid control prepared for disturbance are activated simultaneously, the output signal processing unit 300D performs the display control based on the display order entered from the order decision unit.
[0302] In this mode, the display order is decided so that it can be provided to the steering assistance control prepared for operation, and correspondingly, the output signal processing unit 300D previously performs the display control to an assist state display image (hereinafter referred to as a ready-to-operate display image) corresponding to the ready-to-operate steering assistance control. Specifically, the output signal processing unit 300D first performs the display control to display the display image ready for operation until the preset minimum display time for the steering aid control ready for operation has elapsed. Thereafter, the output signal processing unit 300D implements the display control for an assist state display image (hereinafter referred to as the disturbance ready display image) corresponding to the disturbance prepared steering assistance control. Specifically, in this mode, the output signal processing unit 300D performs display control to display the disturbance-ready display image until the preset minimum display time for the disturbance-ready steering assistance control has elapsed. (Operations)
[0303]Examples of operation of this modality are described based on Figures 19 and 20. [Continuous operating time display control operation]
[0304]Based on Figure 19, a case is described where steering assistance controls are continuously activated in an overlapping mode. Figure 19 is a time graph to explain an example of display control operation in the case where steering aid controls are continuously activated in overlapping mode.
[0305]First, as shown in (1) in Figure 19, when the A-direction assist control operation flag switches to the ON state, the display time delay processing unit 300C reads a display time minimum tminA, which corresponds to the A-direction assist control, as the minimum display time information from the render information storage memory 302. Note that, in this mode, the A-direction assist control is any control among the ATC, AEB, ARC, SMB and HDC steering assistance controls.
[0306]The display time delay processing unit 300C inputs the minimum read display time tminA to the output signal processing unit 300D. Furthermore, the display time delay processing unit 300C inserts the inserted operation flag to the order decision unit 300E.
[0307]Order decision unit 300E stores the operating order of the steering assistance controls in the operating order storage memory 306 based on the entered operate flag. As shown in (1) in Figure 19, the A-direction assist control is first activated, and correspondingly the order decision unit 300E stores information about an operating order (first order) of the A-assist control. direction A in the operating order storage memory 306. Then, the order decision unit 300E inputs display order information, which indicates that the direction aid control A is operating, to the signal processing unit of 300D output.
[0308]Once it has been determined that the A-direction aid control has switched to the operating state based on the display order information, which is entered from the order decision unit 300E, the unit output signal processing 300D reads the display pattern information A, which corresponds to the direction aid control A, from the rendering information storage memory 302. Then, based on the display pattern information read A, the output signal processing unit 300D generates the display start instruction A for the help state display image X (hereinafter referred to as a rendering image A) corresponding to the A direction assistance control Furthermore, the output signal processing unit 300D transmits the generated display start instruction A to the measuring device 20 via the communication network 50. Meanwhile, the output signal processing unit 300D issues the instruction. start function for counting operation by display time measurement timer 304, and start counting operation (display time measurement) by display time measurement timer 304.
[0309] However, upon receipt of the display start instruction A from the output signal processing unit 300D, the meter controller 28 of the metering device 20 reads the information about the rendering image A, which corresponds to the display start A instruction received from the render image storage memory 29. Additionally, the meter controller 28 acquires a variety of information, which must be displayed in the first display region 260A, in the second display region 260B and fourth display region 260D, via communication network 50 from other controllers, instruments, and the like. The meter controller 28 then generates the image display signal A of the image, which is to be displayed on the display screen 260, based on the read information about the rendering image A and the variety of information acquired, and enters the A-picture display signal generated to the liquid crystal display device 26.
[0310]As shown in (2) in Figure 19, the liquid crystal display device 26 displays the rendering image A on the display screen 260 based on the image display signal A inserted therein.
[0311]Subsequently, as shown in (3) in Figure 19, when the B steering assistance control B operation flag switches to the ON state during the A steering assistance control operation, the display time delay processing 300C reads a minimum display time tminB, which corresponds to the B direction assist control, as the minimum display time information from the rendering information store memory 302. the display time delay processing unit 300C inputs the minimum reading display time tminB to the output signal processing unit 300D. Furthermore, the display time delay processing unit 300C inserts the inserted operation flag to the order decision unit 300E.
[0312]The order decision unit 300E stores information about an operation order (second order) of the B direction assist control in the operation order storage memory 306 based on the entered operation flag. Then, based on the stored information about the trade orders, the order decision unit 300E enters display order information, which indicates that the A direction aid control is first and the B direction aid control is the second to the output signal processing unit 300D.
[0313]Once it has been determined that the B steering assistance control has switched to the operating state during the A steering assistance control operation based on the display order information which is entered from the unit of order decision 300E, the output signal processing unit 300D reads the display pattern information B, which corresponds to the direction assistance control B, from the rendering information storage memory 302.
[0314] However, based on the count value of the display time measurement timer 304, the output signal processing unit 300D determines whether the display time of the A-direction assistance control has elapsed or not. preset tswA switching display time for A direction assist control. As shown in (2) and (3) in Figure 19, at a time point when B direction assist control is activated, the display time (tshA in Figure 19) of rendering image A is longer than the switching display time tswA. Therefore, the output signal processing unit 300D performs display control to display rendering image A continuously until the display time of rendering image B has elapsed beyond the switching display time tswA. That is, once it is determined that the display time of the rendering image A has elapsed beyond the switching display time tswA, the output signal processing unit 300D generates the display switching instruction B for a display image B-aid state (hereafter referred to as the B-rendering image), which corresponds to the B-direction aid control, based on the B display pattern information. Then, the output signal processing unit 300D transmits the display switching instruction B generated to the measuring device 20 via the communication network 50. Meanwhile, the output signal processing unit 300D issues the reset instruction to the display time measurement timer 304 and resets the value moreover, subsequently issues the start instruction for the counting operation to the display time measurement timer 304, and starts the counting operation by the measurement timer. the display time 304.
[0315] Upon receipt of the display switching instruction B from the output signal processing unit 300D, the meter controller 28 of the metering device 20 reads the information about the rendering image B, which corresponds to the instruction B display switching mode received from the rendering image storage memory 29. Additionally, the meter controller 28 acquires a variety of information, which must be displayed in the first display region 260A, in the second region display 260B and fourth display region 260D via communication network 50 of other controllers, instruments, and the like. Then, the meter controller 28 generates the B-picture display signal of the image, which is to be displayed on the display screen 260, based on the read information about the B-rendering image and the variety of information acquired, and inputs the generated B-image display signal to the liquid crystal display device 26.
[0316] As shown in (4) in Figure 19, the liquid crystal display device 26 displays the rendering image B on the display screen 260 instead of the rendering image A based on the inputted image B display signal the same.
[0317]In the example (1) to (4) in Figure 19, a time when the minimum display time tminA elapses from the start time t1 of the B-steering assistance control is the time t3. So, the time from the display start time t2 of render image B to time t3, that is, the display time tshB of render image B is equal to or greater than a preset tswB switching display time for the steering assistance control B.
[0318]Then output signal processing unit 300D performs display control to display the rendering image B until display time tshB has elapsed. That is, once it is determined that the display time of render image B has elapsed beyond the display time tshB, output signal processing unit 300D generates the display end instruction for render image B. Then, the output signal processing unit 300D transmits the generated display termination instruction to the metering device 20 via the communication network 50.
[0319] Upon receipt of the display termination instruction from the output signal processing unit 300D, the meter controller 28 of the metering device 20 reads the standard image information 261DF from the image storage memory of rendering 29. In addition, the meter controller 28 acquires a variety of information, which must be displayed in the above-described first display region 260A, second display region 260B, and fourth display region 260D, via the communication network 50 from other controllers, instruments, and the like. Then, the meter controller 28 generates the DF image display signal from the image, which is to be displayed on the display screen 260, based on the read information about the standard image 261DF and the variety of acquired information, and enters the signal. of DF image display generated to the liquid crystal display device 26.
[0320] The liquid crystal display device 26 displays the default image 261DF on the display screen 260 instead of the rendering image B based on the DF image display signal inserted into it.
[0321] The following describes an example of operation shown in (5) to (8) in Figure 19. A difference from (5) to (8) in Figure 19 in relation to (1) to (4) in Figure 19 is that a B-steering assistance control start time is early. Therefore, with respect to a time t6 at a point of time when the minimum display time tminB has elapsed from an activation time t4 of the B steering assistance control, that time (display time tshB) from a display start time t5 of rendering image B to time t6 is shorter than switching display time tswB.
[0322] In this case, the output signal processing unit 300D performs display control to display the rendering image B continuously until the switching display time tswB has elapsed from the display start time t5 , that is, from time t5 to time t7. [Display control operation at operating time of multiple controls]
[0323] Next, based on Figure 20, a case is described where the steering assistance control prepared for operation and the steering assistance control prepared for disturbance are activated simultaneously. Figure 20 is a time graph to explain an example of a display control operation in the case where the steer assist control prepared for operation and the steer assist control prepared for disturbance are activated simultaneously.
[0324] In the following parts of this document, it is noted that a steering assistance control operation flag prepared for operation is referred to as an operation flag prepared for operation, and an operation flag of the disturbance-ready steering assistance control is termed as a disturbance-ready operating flag.
[0325]As shown in (1) and (2) in Figure 20, it is assumed that an operation flag prepared for C operation and an operation flag prepared for D disturbance have switched to the ON state simultaneously. In this case, the display time delay processing unit 300C reads a minimum display time tminC, which corresponds to a steering assistance control prepared for C operation, as the minimum display time information from memory. of rendering information storage 302. In addition, the display time delay processing unit 300C reads a minimum display time tminD, which corresponds to a prepared direction assistance control for disturbance D, such as the timing information minimum display from the render information storage memory 302. Note that in this mode, the steering aid control prepared for operation C is a control among the steering aid controls ATC and AEB. Furthermore, in this mode, the D-disturbance prepared steering assistance control is the ARC steering assistance control.
[0326]The 300C display time delay processing unit inputs the minimum read display time tminC and minimum display time tminD to the 300D output signal processing unit. In addition, the display time delay processing unit 300C inserts the operation flags entered into the order decision unit 300E.
[0327]Order decision unit 300E stores the operating order of the steering assistance controls in the operating order storage memory 306 based on the entered operating flags. In this case, the steering assistance control prepared for operation and the steering assistance control prepared for disturbance are activated simultaneously, the order decision unit 300E stores operating order information, which indicates that the assistance control of steering prepared for operation C and the steering aid control prepared for disturbance D are activated simultaneously, in the operating order storage memory 306. Furthermore, based on the stored operating order information, the decision unit of order 300E generates display order information, but almost the steering aid control prepared for C operation is set to the first order, and the steering aid control prepared for disturbance D is set to the second order, and inputs the generated display order information to output signal processing unit 300D.
[0328] Based on the information about the display order, which is entered from the order decision unit 300E, the output signal processing unit 300D reads the display pattern information C, which corresponds to the control of direction aid prepared for C operation, from the rendering information storage memory 302. Then, based on the read display pattern information C, the output signal processing unit 300D generates the start instruction C-assist display image (hereinafter referred to as a C-render image) corresponding to the steering assistance control prepared for C operation. In addition, the 300D output signal processing unit transmits the generated display start instruction C to the measuring device 20 via the communication network 50. Meanwhile, the output signal processing unit 300D issues the start instruction for the counting operation at the time. display time measurement timer 304, and start counting operation by display time measurement timer 304.
[0329] However, upon receipt of the display start instruction C from the output signal processing unit 300D, the meter controller 28 of the metering device 20 reads the information about the rendering image C, which corresponds to the display start instruction C received from the render image storage memory 29. Additionally, the meter controller 28 acquires a variety of information, which should be displayed in the first display region 260A, in the second display region 260B and fourth display region 260D, via communication network 50 from other controllers, instruments, and the like. Then, the meter controller 28 generates the image C-image display signal of the image, which is to be displayed on the display screen 260, based on the read information about the C-render image and the variety of information acquired, and enters the image display signal C generated to the liquid crystal display device 26.
[0330]As shown in (3) in Figure 20, the liquid crystal display device 26 displays the rendering image C on the display screen 260 based on the image display signal C inserted therein.
[0331] In the example of Figure 20, an operating time toC of the prepared steering assistance control for C operation is shorter than the minimum display time tminC, and correspondingly even after the prepared steering assistance control for operation C to be terminated, output signal processing unit 300D performs display control to display the rendering image C continuously until the minimum display time tminC has elapsed.
[0332] Specifically, once it is determined that the display time of the C rendering image has elapsed beyond the minimum display time tminC, the output signal processing unit 300D reads the display pattern information D, which corresponds to D disturbance prepared steering assistance control, from the rendering information storage memory 302. Then, based on the read display pattern information D, the output signal processing unit 300D generates the instruction of switching from D-display to the D-assist state display image (hereinafter referred to as the D-rendering image) corresponding to the D-disturbance-prepared direction-assist control. Then, the output signal processing unit 300D trans -it sends the generated display switching instruction D to the measuring device 20 via the communication network 50. Meanwhile, the output signal processing unit 300D issues the reset instruction setting to the 304 display time measurement timer and reset the counting value, furthermore, it subsequently issues the start instruction for the counting operation to the 304 display time measurement timer, and starts the counting operation by 304 display time measurement timer.
[0333] Upon receipt of the D display switching instruction from the output signal processing unit 300D, the meter controller 28 of the metering device 20 reads the information about the rendering image D, which corresponds to the instruction display switching input D received from the render image storage memory 29. In addition, the meter controller 28 acquires a variety of information, which must be displayed in the first display region 260A, the second display region 260B, and in the fourth display region 260D, through the communication network 50 from other controllers, instruments, and the like. Then, the meter controller 28 generates the image's D-image display signal, which is to be displayed on the display screen 260, based on the read information about the D-rendering image and the variety of information acquired, and inputs the generated D-image display signal to the liquid crystal display device 26.
[0334] As shown in (4) in Figure 20, the liquid crystal display device 26 displays the D-render image on the display screen 260 instead of the C-render image based on the inserted D-image display signal the same.
[0335] In the example of Figure 20, an operating time toD of the prepared steering assistance control for disturbance D is shorter than the minimum display time tminD, and correspondingly even after the prepared steering assistance control for disturbance D is terminated, output signal processing unit 300D performs display control to display the rendering image D continuously until the minimum display time tminD has elapsed.
[0336] Specifically, once it is determined that the display time of the rendering image D has elapsed beyond the minimum display time tminD, the output signal processing unit 300D generates the display termination instruction for the image. rendering D. Then, the output signal processing unit 300D transmits the generated display termination instruction to the measuring device 20 via the communication network 50.
[0337] Upon receipt of the display termination instruction from the output signal processing unit 300D, the meter controller 28 of the metering device 20 reads the standard image information 261DF from the image storage memory of rendering 29. In addition, the meter controller 28 acquires a variety of information, which must be displayed in the first display region 260A, the second display region 260B, and the fourth display region 260D described above, through the communication network 50 from other controllers, instruments, and the like. Then, the meter controller 28 generates the DF image display signal from the image, which is to be displayed on the display screen 260, based on the read information about the standard image 261DF and the variety of acquired information, and enters the signal. of DF image display generated to the liquid crystal display device 26.
[0338] The liquid crystal display device 26 displays the default image 261DF on the display screen 260 instead of the rendering image D based on the DF image display signal inserted into it.
[0339] In this document, in this mode, the function of the display controller 30, which consists of determining the operating state of the steering assistance control based on the operating flag, corresponds to the operating state determination unit . A function in the display controller 30, which is to perform display control for the help state display image, corresponds to a display control unit. The function in the 300A input processing unit, which is to detect the driving direction, corresponds to the steering angle detection unit.
[0340] Furthermore, in this modality, the mesh images 261a, 261e and 261h, the left side effect display regions AL1 to AL4, the right side effect display regions AR1 to AR4 and the effect display region 265 correspond to the background image. In addition, left curve mesh image 261c (including effect display regions 264LL and 264RL) and right curve mesh image 261d (including effect display regions 264LR and 264RR) correspond to Background image. (Effects of the second modality)
[0341] According to this modality, it becomes possible to exert the effects described below in addition to the effects of the first modality described above. (1) Once it is determined that the steering aid control implemented by the automotive steering aid device 40 is operating, the display controller 30 displays the aid status display image, which is the image to notify the driver that the steer aid control is operating, on the liquid crystal display device 26 provided on the gauge panel 21 of the metering device 20. Once determined that the second steer aid control is different from the first steer aid control is enabled while the first steer aid control is operating, and once determined that the display time of the previously displayed first steer aid state display picture corresponding to the first steer aid control has not elapsed beyond the switching display time preset tsw, the display controller 30 performs display control to display the first help state display image with dimly until the switching display time tsw has elapsed, and after executing the display control in question, performs display control to display the second aid state display image corresponding to the second direction aid control.
[0342] That is, when it is determined that the second steer aid control is enabled while the first steer aid control is operating, it determines whether the display time of the first steer status display image previously displayed help has elapsed or not beyond switching display time tsw. So, in a case where the display time of the previously displayed first help state display image did not elapse beyond the tsw switching display time, the display control to display the second help state display image after switching immediately at the same time it is not performed, but the first help state display image is displayed continuously until the switching display time tsw has elapsed.
[0343]Therefore, even in a case where the second aid steer control is activated in timing when the first aid state display image is displayed for an extremely short time, the first aid state display image is displayed without failure until the switching display time tsw has elapsed. Therefore, the switching display time tsw is set at an appropriate time, thus, it becomes possible to prevent this display state in extremely short time of the help state display image from occurring, and it becomes possible to reduce the nuisance provided to the driver by this display. (2) Once it is determined that the steering assistance control is prepared for operation (eg, the ATC, AEB, or similar steering assistance control), which is activated in response to the operation of the drive operator (handwheel 1 brake pedal 16, accelerator pedal, or the like) by the driver, and the disturbance-ready steering aid control (eg, the ARC steering aid control, or the like), which is activated in response to the disturbance, are activated simultaneously, the display controller 30 displays the assistance state display image (261IN, 261LC, 261RC, or similar rendering image), which corresponds to the steering assistance control prepared for operation, while providing the even a higher priority than that of the disturbance prepared steering assistance control. Then, after the display in question, the display controller 30 performs display control to display the assist state display image (261ARC rendering image, or similar) corresponding to the steer assist control set to disturb.
[0344] The ready-to-operate steering assistance control is activated in response to the drive operator's driver operation, for example, such as steering wheel 1, and correspondingly is activated under a recognized travel situation by the driver. However, the disturbance prepared steering assistance control is activated in response to disturbance input, for example, such as road irregularities, and, correspondingly, is sometimes activated under a situation that is not recognized by the driver. Therefore, when the steer assist control prepared for operation and the steer assist control prepared for disturbance are activated simultaneously, the assist state display image corresponding to the steer assist control prepared for operation is preferably displayed, in this way, it becomes possible to display the appropriate help state display image at an appropriate timing. (3) Switching display time tsw is adjusted for each type of steering assistance controls.
[0345]The switching display time tsw is adjusted for each type of steering assistance controls, thus it becomes possible to perform a time adjustment corresponding to the display content, and the appropriate time is adjusted for each of these display contents, in this way, it becomes possible to realize a switching display in which the nuisance is further reduced. (Example of modification) (1) In the modalities described above, the HSA and HDC steering aid controls are preset as the controls activated in the situation where the drive load is relatively small, and the ATC steering aid controls, AEB, ARC and SMB are preset as the activated controls in the situation where the drive load is relatively large. Then, this setting is adopted, which displays the assist status display images including the image of vehicles seen from different points of view between the steering assistance controls, which are activated in the situation where the load of triggering is relatively large, and the steering assistance controls, which are activated in the situation where the triggering load is relatively small, and the assisting state display images are different in display mode at the time when the control is operating.
[0346] The present invention is not limited to this configuration. For example, once it is determined that the vehicle speed Vd of the automobile V is a predefined or greater vehicle speed threshold value based on the vehicle speed Vd, the display controller 30 determines that the drive load is related. significantly large, and determines that the drive load is relatively small once it is determined that the vehicle speed Vd is less than the vehicle speed threshold value. Then, this setting can be adopted, which, based on a result of this determination, displays the assist state display images including the image of vehicles seen from different points of view between the steering assistance controls, which are activated in the situation where the trigger load is relatively large, and the steering assistance controls, which activate in the situation where the trigger load is relatively small, the assist state display images being different in display mode at the moment when the control is operating.
[0347]For example, in a situation where the vehicle speed Vd becomes the vehicle speed threshold value or greater, it becomes possible to display an assist state display image with display content at an extension where the driver can roughly recognize the operating situation, for example, which type of steering assistance controls is operating, by the rapid movement of the line of sight and the peripheral visual field. However, in a situation where the vehicle speed Vd becomes less than the vehicle speed threshold value, it becomes possible to display an assist state display image with a display content, for example from the which the driver can understand a more detailed operating situation of the steering aid control by looking at the display content in question.
[0348]This matter is applicable not only to the different steer-aid controls, but also to the same steer-aid control. That is, even for equal steering aid controls, it is possible to change the content, which should be displayed, to an appropriate content corresponding to a magnitude of the drive load depending on when the drive load is relatively large and relatively small. (2) In the modalities described above, the HSA and HDC steer-assist controls are preset as the controls activated in the situation where the drive load is relatively small, and the ATC, AEB, ARC and SMB steer-assist controls they are preset as the activated controls in the situation where the drive load is relatively large. Then, this setting is adopted, which displays the assist status display images including the image of vehicles seen from different points of view between the steering assistance controls, which are activated in the situation where the load of triggering is relatively large, and the steering assistance controls, which are activated in the situation where the triggering load is relatively small, and the assisting state display images are different in display mode at the time when the control is operating.
[0349] The present invention is not limited to this configuration. For example, based on a detection value from a tilt angle sensor (not shown) mounted on automobile V, the display controller 30 detects a road gradient. Then, once it is determined that the detected gradient has a preset or greater gradient threshold value, the display controller 30 determines that the trigger load is relatively large, and determines that the trigger load is relatively small once it is determined that the Detected gradient is less than the gradient threshold value. Then, this setting can be adopted, which, based on a result of this determination, displays the assist state display images including the image of vehicles seen from different points of view between the steering assistance controls, which are activated in the situation where the drive load is relatively large, and the steering assistance controls, which activate in the situation where the drive load is relatively small, and the assist state display images are different in display mode at the time when the control is operating.
[0350]For example, in a situation where the road gradient becomes the gradient threshold value or greater, it becomes possible to display an assist state display image with display content to an extent where the driver can recognize approximately the operating situation, eg what type of steering assistance controls are operating, by the rapid movement of the line of sight and the peripheral visual field. However, in a situation where the road gradient becomes smaller than the gradient threshold value, it becomes possible to display a help state display image with display content, for example, from which the driver can understand a more detailed operating situation of the steering assistance control by observing the display content in question.
[0351] This matter is applicable not only to the different steering aid controls, but also to the same steering aid controls. That is, even for equal steering aid controls, it is possible to change the content, to be displayed, to an appropriate content corresponding to a magnitude of the drive load depending on when the drive load is relatively large and relatively small.
[0352] Furthermore, the modalities described above are specific preferred examples of the present invention, and a variety of technically preferred limitations are imposed; however, the scope of the present invention is not limited to these embodiments, except where particularly described that the embodiments impose limitations on the present invention. Additionally, for purposes of illustrative convenience, the drawings for use in the description are schematic views where aspect ratios of limbs and portions are different from current ones.
[0353] Furthermore, the present invention is not limited to the modalities described above, and modifications, improvements, equivalents, and the like, within the scope where the objective of the present invention can be achieved are incorporated in the present invention.
[0354] As above, the contents of Japanese Patent Application P2013-3631 (filed on January 11, 2013), under which this application claims priority, are incorporated herein in their entirety by way of reference.
[0355] In this document, the present invention has been described with reference to a limited number of embodiments; however, the scope of rights is not limited thereto, and modifications of the respective modalities, which are based on the disclosure described above, will be obvious to persons skilled in the art. LIST OF REFERENCE SIGNALS V: automobile 1: steering wheel 3: steering angle sensor 16: brake pedal 17: brake operation detection device 20: gauge device 21: gauge panel 22: first gauge 24: second gauge 24b : indicator 26: liquid crystal display device 28: meter controller 29: rendering image storage memory 30: display controller 40: steering aid device 260: display screen 260C: third display region 261a, 261e , 261h: 261b mesh image, 261f: 261DF vehicle image: 261IN standard image: control interference time display image 261LC: left direction rendering image 261RC: right direction rendering image 261ARC, 261SMB1 to SMB5, 261HSA(S), 261HSA(O), 261HDC: 300 Rendering Image: 300A Display Control ECU: 300B Input Processing Unit: 300C Display Control Unit: Time Delay Processing Unit 300D display: output signal processing unit 300E: order decision unit 302: rendering information storage memory 304: display time measurement timer

权利要求:
Claims (9)
[0001]
1. Display control device for a vehicle, configured to perform a display control for a display device provided on a gauge panel of an automotive metering device, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the display control device comprises: an operating state detection unit configured to detect an operating state of a steering aid control implemented by an automotive steering aid device; and a display control unit configured to perform a display control to display an assist state display image on the display device, wherein the assist state display image is an image having a configuration in which an image of the vehicle is superimposed on a background image consisting of a flat image with a predetermined shape, and, in addition, changing a display mode of a portion of the background image of the helper state display image to be displayed in the display device to a preset display mode once it is determined that the steering assistance control is activated based on the operating state detected by the operating state detection unit.
[0002]
2. Display control device for a vehicle, according to claim 1, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the background image includes a mesh image, which consists of a mesh-like image, and a gradation image.
[0003]
3. Display control device for a vehicle, according to any one of claims 1 and 2, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the image of the vehicle is an image from a point of view looking along the vehicle from of an upper rear of the vehicle, and the background image is an image with a shape, which is extended in a far and near direction while defining a longitudinal direction of the vehicle of the vehicle image as the far and near direction and has a width wider in a direction perpendicular to the far and near direction towards a near side and a narrower width in the perpendicular direction towards a far side.
[0004]
4. Display control device for a vehicle, according to claim 2, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that, once determined that the steering assistance control is activated based on the operating state detected by the detection unit. operating state, the display control unit is configured to perform display control to change a display color of the portion of the background image within a predefined distance range from a portion of the vehicle image in the display image help state settings for a predefined display color.
[0005]
5. Display control device for a vehicle, according to claim 4, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that it further comprises: a driving direction detection unit configured to detect a driving direction, in which, once determined that a steering assistance control, configured to activate while the vehicle is traveling along a curved road and to control the braking/drive force of the vehicle's respective wheels, is activated based on the state detection unit detected by the operating state detection unit, the display control unit changes a shape of the background image portion of the aid state display image to be displayed on the display device to a curved shape in the driving direction detected by the driving direction detection unit.
[0006]
6. Display control device for a vehicle, according to claim 5, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that, based on the operating state detected by the operating state detection unit, although the au- Steering xilium activated while the vehicle is traveling along the curved roadway is in operation, the display control unit performs a display control to superimpose the display images with a wheel shape on the wheel positions of the portion of the vehicle image in the assist state display image and display the wheel-shaped images by a color that exerts a preset display effect to allow the wheel-shaped images to appear to be emitting light.
[0007]
7. Display control device for a vehicle, according to any one of claims 4 to 6, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that, once determined that a steering aid control, configured to be activated while the vehicle is traveling on a straight road, and accentuating the displacement stability in relation to a vehicle steering angle, is activated based on the operating state detected by the operating state detection unit, the display control unit performs display control to change the format of the background image of the help state display image to be displayed on the display device to a U-shape in which both ends of the background image in the direction perpendicular to the direction away from and close to the background image are erected to form walls surrounding transverse side surfaces of the vehicle image, and change, in relation to a plurality of divided regions obtained. moving a portion of the image within a predefined distance range from the vehicle image in the background image into several regions in the perpendicular direction, a predefined display color of the same sequentially into other predefined colors from a divided region. on one side near the vehicle image facing a region split on one side away from the vehicle image.
[0008]
8. Display control device for a vehicle, according to any one of claims 4 to 7, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the display control unit performs a display control to change the display color of the portion of the image within the preset distance range from the vehicle image portion for a display color that exerts a preset display effect to allow the background image portion to appear to be emitting light.
[0009]
9. Display control method for a vehicle, configured to perform display control for a display device provided on a gauge panel of an automotive metering device, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the display control method comprises: performing a display control to display a help state display image on the display device, where the help state display image is an image having a setting in which an image of the vehicle is superimposed on an image which consists of a flat image with a predefined shape, and furthermore changing a display mode of a portion of the background image from the helper state display image to be displayed on the display device to a display mode preset once it is determined that a steering aid control implemented by an automotive steering aid device is activated.

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引用文献:

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公开号 | 申请日 | 公开日 | 申请人 | 专利标题

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法律状态:
2018-11-13| B06F| Objections, documents and/or translations needed after an examination request according [chapter 6.6 patent gazette]|

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2020-04-14| B06U| Preliminary requirement: requests with searches performed by other patent offices: procedure suspended [chapter 6.21 patent gazette]|

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2021-05-25| B09A| Decision: intention to grant [chapter 9.1 patent gazette]|

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2021-07-13| B16A| Patent or certificate of addition of invention granted [chapter 16.1 patent gazette]|Free format text: PRAZO DE VALIDADE: 20 (VINTE) ANOS CONTADOS A PARTIR DE 27/12/2013, OBSERVADAS AS CONDICOES LEGAIS. |

优先权:

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申请号 | 申请日 | 专利标题

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JP2013003631|2013-01-11|

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JP2013-003631|2013-01-11|

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PCT/JP2013/007703|WO2014108987A1|2013-01-11|2013-12-27|Display control device for vehicle and display control method for vehicle|

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