JP2020152157A - Function explanation device, movable body, and function explanation method - Google Patents

Abstract

To enhance an appealing effect on the utilization of a function provided in a movable body such as a vehicle.SOLUTION: A function explanation device for explaining a function provided in a movable body having a plurality of loudspeakers comprises: a function explanation part that executes function explanation processing for outputting explanation sounds for explaining the function, from the plurality of loudspeakers; and a sound output control part that controls sound output from the plurality of loudspeakers so as to execute explanation sound localization processing in which a position to generate the explanation sound for an occupant in the movable body is localized in a position to arrange equipment provided in the movable body in accordance with the function.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

The present invention relates to a function explanation device, a moving body, and a function explanation method.

Conventionally, various proposals have been made for the user to learn the functions provided in a moving body such as a vehicle.
For example, the vehicle explanation machine described in Patent Document 1 reads out the explanation data of the function about the equipment of the vehicle stored in the CD-ROM, and explains the function by outputting the explanation voice from the speaker. The description starts when the prime mover is started by the ignition key, and ends by detecting an operation indicating the start of operation such as operation of the shift lever.

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 9-109803

However, although the vehicle is equipped with equipment corresponding to a plurality of functions (for example, a driving support function), the vehicle explanation machine described in Patent Document 1 is difficult for the driver to understand the contents and usage of the functions. There is.
Therefore, it is required to further appeal to the driver and encourage the use of the functions provided in the moving body such as a vehicle.
An object of the present invention is to provide a function explanation device capable of enhancing an appealing effect on the use of a function provided in a moving body.

One aspect of the present invention is a function explanation device for explaining a function provided in a moving body having a plurality of speakers, and a function description for outputting an explanatory sound for explaining the function from the plurality of speakers. The function explanation unit that executes the process and the position where the explanation sound is generated for the occupant of the moving body are equipped with the moving body in response to the function by controlling the sound output from the plurality of speakers. This is a function explanation device including a sound output control unit that executes explanatory sound localization processing that localizes to the placement position of the product.
According to another aspect of the present invention, the sound output control unit executes the explanation sound localization process when the explanation sound corresponding to the equipment is output by the function explanation process.
According to another aspect of the present invention, the equipment is any one of an operation unit for enabling the function, a notification unit for indicating the execution status of the function, and a sensing device for executing the function. Is.
According to another aspect of the present invention, the notation function is a driving support function of the moving body, the occupant is a driver of the moving body, and the past driving situation of the moving body by the driver is recorded. A driving situation recognition unit for accessing the driving situation recording unit and recognizing the past driving situation of the moving body by the driver is provided, and the function explanation unit is the moving body by the driver by the driving situation recognition unit. It is determined whether or not to execute the function explanation process based on the recognition result of the past driving situation.
According to another aspect of the present invention, the moving body includes a plurality of the driving support functions, and the function explanation unit is suitable for the driver based on the past driving situation of the moving body by the driver. The driving support function is selected, and the function explanation processing for the selected driving support function is executed.
According to another aspect of the present invention, the function explanation unit executes the function explanation process only when the moving body has stopped moving.
According to another aspect of the present invention, in the function explanation process, the function explanation unit displays a pseudo screen imitating the display state of the display device at the time of executing the function on the display device provided in the moving body. To do.
Another aspect of the present invention is a moving body provided with the function explaining device.
Another aspect of the present invention is a function explaining method executed by a computer in order to explain a function provided in a moving body having a plurality of speakers, wherein the computer uses the plurality of speakers to describe the function. A function explanation step for executing a function explanation process for outputting an explanatory sound for explaining the above, and a position where the explanatory sound is generated with respect to an occupant of the moving body are controlled by controlling sound outputs from the plurality of speakers. This is a function explanation method including a sound output control step for executing an explanatory sound localization process for localizing to the arrangement position of the equipment equipped on the moving body in accordance with the above.

According to the present invention, it is possible to enhance the appealing effect on the use of the functions provided in the moving body.

The schematic plan view which shows an example of the structure of the passenger compartment of a vehicle. The figure which shows an example of the arrangement of the equipment around the driver's seat. The figure which shows an example of the structure of the audio-image control device. The plan view which shows an example of the calculation method of the 1st volume value ratio to the 5th volume value ratio. The plan view which shows another example of the calculation method of the 1st volume value ratio to the 5th volume value ratio. The figure which shows an example of the lane keep function. A screen view showing an example of a pseudo screen displayed on the HUD. The figure which shows an example of the configuration of a server device. Function Description A flowchart showing an example of the execution procedure of the process.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[1. Function explanation Device usage and configuration]
[1-1. Vehicle cabin configuration]
FIG. 1 is a schematic plan view showing an example of the configuration of the passenger compartment 10 of the vehicle M including the audio image control device 100 including the configuration of the function explanation device.

In FIG. 1, the traveling direction when the vehicle M is traveling is indicated by the symbol DR, and in the following description, the traveling direction DR is the front of the vehicle M.
The vehicle M corresponds to an example of a "moving body".

Seats 21, 23 and rear seats 25 are installed in the passenger compartment 10. The passenger capacity of the vehicle M is five, and the seating positions of the occupants of the vehicle M are indicated by P1, P2, P3, P4, and P5. The seat 21 is the driver's seat, and the seat 23 is the passenger seat.
The steering wheel 14 is gripped by the driver and is operated when the traveling direction of the vehicle M is changed.

The vehicle M is provided with a voice image control device 100 and a navigation device 110. A front panel 12 is arranged in the passenger compartment 10. The front panel 12 is an interior member of the vehicle interior 10 fixed to the vehicle M, and includes a dashboard, an instrument panel, a center console, a frame (not shown) that supports them, and the like.

The navigation device 110 includes a front display 113. The front display 113 is arranged on the front panel 12.

The front display 113 is composed of a display panel such as a liquid crystal display panel, and displays various images and characters under the control of a processing unit 130 built in the audio image control device 100. The front display 113 is installed at a position visible to the driver and the occupants of the passenger seat 23.

The navigation device 110 displays a map or the like for route guidance on the front display 113 to execute car navigation. The navigation device 110 includes a touch sensor 114 that detects a touch operation on the front display 113. Therefore, the occupant can operate the navigation device 110 by touching the front display 113.

Further, a plurality of speakers 15 are arranged on the vehicle M. The audio image control device 100 controls the audio output to the plurality of speakers 15. Further, the audio image control device 100 controls the image displayed on the front display 113.
The audio image control device 100 includes a configuration of a “function explanation device”.

The plurality of speakers 15 output audio according to the control of the processing unit 130 built in the audio image control device 100.
The plurality of speakers 15 include a center speaker 15A, a right front speaker 15B, a left front speaker 15C, a left rear speaker 15D, and a right rear speaker 15E. The plurality of speakers 15 output, for example, surround sound.

The center speaker 15A is arranged above the front display 113 in, for example, the front panel 12. The right front speaker 15B is fixed to, for example, the door trim of the right front door. The left front speaker 15C is fixed to, for example, the door trim of the left front door. The left rear speaker 15D is fixed to, for example, the door trim of the left rear door. The right rear speaker 15E is fixed to, for example, the door trim of the right rear door.

In the present embodiment, the vehicle M is a four-wheeled passenger car, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The vehicle M may be a vehicle equipped with a drive source that is operated by the driver and drives the wheels. The drive source may be an engine or a motor. The vehicle M may be a freight vehicle such as a truck, or the vehicle M may be a two-wheeled vehicle, for example.

In the present embodiment, the "moving body" is the vehicle M, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The "moving body" may be a moving body equipped with a drive source that is steered by the driver and drives the moving body. The "moving body" may be, for example, an airplane, a helicopter, or a ship.

[1-2. Display configuration]
FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of arrangement of devices around the driver's seat of the vehicle M.
As shown in FIG. 2, the vehicle M includes a front display 113 shown in FIG. 1, a HUD (Head-Up Display) 111, and a rear view monitor 112.

Further, the vehicle M is an AT (Automatic Transmission) vehicle equipped with an automatic transmission, and includes a selector 18.

The vehicle M includes various display units 17. Specifically, the display unit 17 includes a speedometer 171 and a rotation speedometer 172. The speedometer 171 indicates the traveling speed of the vehicle M. The rotation speedometer 172 indicates the rotation speed of the engine mounted on the vehicle M.
The display member 17 corresponds to an example of the “notification unit”.

A lane keep execution button B1, a lane keep end button B2, a preceding vehicle follow-up execution button B3, and a preceding vehicle follow-up end button B4 are arranged on the steering wheel 14 of the vehicle M. The lane keep execution button B1, the lane keep end button B2, the preceding vehicle follow-up execution button B3, and the preceding vehicle follow-up end button B4 correspond to an example of an operating member that enables or disables the driving support function mounted on the vehicle M.
The lane keep execution button B1 and the lane keep end button B2 are arranged on the right side of the steering wheel 14, and the preceding vehicle follow-up execution button B3 and the preceding vehicle follow-up end button B4 are arranged on the left side of the steering wheel 14.
The lane keep execution button B1 is pressed by the driver when executing the lane keep function. The lane keep end button B2 is pressed by the driver when the lane keep function is ended. The "lane keeping function" will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 7.

The preceding vehicle following execution button B3 is pressed by the driver when the preceding vehicle following function is enabled. The preceding vehicle following end button B4 is pressed by the driver when the preceding vehicle following function is disabled.
The "preceding vehicle following function" means that the inter-vehicle distance D between the vehicle M and the preceding vehicle becomes the target inter-vehicle distance DT by using an engine, a brake, etc. (not shown) according to the instruction of the ECU (Electronic Control Unit). The function of performing acceleration / deceleration control of the vehicle M is shown.
The inter-vehicle distance D is detected by a radar (not shown). The radar is provided in the front portion of the vehicle M, for example, in the front grill. The radar radiates radio waves in front of the vehicle M and detects the reflected waves reflected by the preceding vehicle.

The front display 113 functions as a rear view monitor when the rear position is selected by the selector 18. That is, the front display 113 displays an image showing the rear view of the vehicle M. An image showing the rear view of the vehicle M is captured by a rear camera (not shown). The rear camera is arranged on the rear surface of the vehicle body of the vehicle M.

When the parking position is selected by the selector 18 and the function explanation process is executed by the processing unit 130, the HUD 111 displays an image imitating the outside view in front of the vehicle M. The HUD 111 corresponds to an example of a "display device". The "function explanation process" will be described in detail with reference to FIG.

When the drive position or the neutral position is selected by the selector 18, the rear view monitor 112 displays an image showing the rear view of the vehicle M.
When the parking position is selected by the selector 18 and the function explanation process is executed by the processing unit 130, the rear view monitor 112 displays an image imitating the rear view of the vehicle M.

A camera 16 is arranged on the front panel 12 of the vehicle M. The camera 16 captures the driver's face and generates a face image. The face image generated by the camera 16 is used for personal authentication.
The camera 16 is a digital camera including an image sensor such as a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) or a CMOS (Complementary Metal-Optide-Semiconductor) and an image pickup lens. Although the camera 16 of the present embodiment is a monocular camera, it may be configured by a stereo camera.

[1-3. Overall configuration of audio image control system]
FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the overall configuration of the audio image control system 1.
As shown in FIG. 3, the audio image control device 100 constitutes the audio image control system 1 together with the server device 200 wirelessly connected via a network (not shown).

The network is, for example, the Internet. The network may be a LAN (Local Area Network) or a WAN (Wide Area Network).

The server device 200 stores various information. The server device 200 transmits various information to the audio image control device 100 in response to a request from the audio image control device 100.

[1-4. Configuration of audio image control device]
Further, FIG. 3 is a diagram showing the configuration of the audio image control device 100.
The audio image control device 100 includes a processing unit 130, a storage unit 140, and an audio processing circuit 151. The audio image control device 100 is connected to the vehicle speed sensor 153, GPS 155, and communication unit 157 provided in the vehicle M.

The center speaker 15A, the right front speaker 15B, the left front speaker 15C, the left rear speaker 15D, the right rear speaker 15E, the HUD 111, the rear view monitor 112, the front display 113, the touch sensor 114, and the camera 16 are connected to the audio image processing device 100. Will be done. Further, the steering wheel 14, the selector 18, and the operation unit EP are connected to the audio image processing device 100. The operation unit EP includes a lane keep execution button B1, a lane keep end button B2, a preceding vehicle follow-up execution button B3, and a preceding vehicle follow-up end button B4.
Each of these parts may be connected to the circuit board constituting the audio image processing device 100 by using a connector or the like. Further, the audio image processing device 100 may be configured by connecting each part by a communication network compatible with CAN (Control Area Network). Further, another device such as an ECU (not shown) mounted on the vehicle M and each part constituting the audio image processing device 100 may be connected by a common communication network.

The touch sensor 114 is, for example, a capacitance type or pressure sensitive type sensor, and detects a contact operation or a pressing operation. The touch sensor 114 is arranged so as to be superimposed on the front display 113, detects a contact operation or a pressing operation on the front display 113, and outputs a signal indicating a position where the operation is detected to the processing unit 130.

The processing unit 130 is, for example, a computer including a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit). A storage unit 140 is connected to the processing unit 130. The storage unit 140 stores the control program, which is a computer program executed by the processing unit 130, and various data processed by the processing unit 130 so that the processing unit 130 can read the control program.

The hardware constituting the processing unit 130 and the storage unit 140 is not limited to a specific aspect. For example, the processing unit 130 may be composed of a single processor. Further, the processing unit 130 may be a device in which a processor, a ROM (Read Only Memory), a RAM (Random Access Memory), and the like are integrated. The storage unit 140 may be composed of a non-volatile storage device that non-volatilely stores programs and data, and specifically, may include a magnetic storage device such as a hard disk and a semiconductor storage device such as a flash ROM. Good. Further, the storage unit 140 may include a volatile storage device that temporarily stores programs, data, and the like executed by the processing unit 130. Further, the processing unit 130 and the storage unit 140 may be one integrated device.

The processing unit 130 includes an authentication unit 131, an operation status recognition unit 132, a function explanation unit 133, a sound output control unit 134, and a display control unit 135 as functional elements or functional units. These functional elements included in the processing unit 130 are realized by the processing unit 130, which is a computer, executing a control program stored in the storage unit 140.
The control program executed by the processing unit 130 can be stored in any computer-readable storage medium. Alternatively, all or part of the functional elements included in the processing unit 130 may be configured by hardware including one or more electronic circuit components.

The processing unit 130 controls each unit of the audio-image control device 100 based on the data stored in the storage unit 140 by executing the program stored in the storage unit 140. The processing unit 130 controls the voice processing circuit 151, the vehicle speed sensor 153, the GPS 155, and the communication unit 157.

The voice processing circuit 151 is connected to the speaker 15. The voice processing circuit 151 outputs an electric signal to the speaker 15 based on the digital voice data output by the processing unit 130 according to the control of the processing unit 130, and causes the speaker 15 to output the voice.
In the present embodiment, the sound processing circuit 151 distinguishes each of the center speaker 15A, the right front speaker 15B, the left front speaker 15C, the left rear speaker 15D, and the right rear speaker 15E installed in the vehicle interior 10 to output sound. .. That is, the sound processing circuit 151 individually drives the center speaker 15A, the right front speaker 15B, the left front speaker 15C, the left rear speaker 15D, and the right rear speaker 15E, and outputs sound of different volume levels from each speaker.

The vehicle speed sensor 153 is connected to an ECU or the like mounted on the vehicle M, and acquires and analyzes the vehicle speed pulse signal or the vehicle speed data of the vehicle M. The vehicle speed sensor 153 outputs data indicating the vehicle speed of the vehicle M to the processing unit 130.

The GPS (Global Positioning System) 155 is a processing unit that receives a GPS signal by an antenna (not shown) and calculates the position of the vehicle M based on the received GPS signal. The navigation device 110 uses the position of the vehicle M calculated by GPS 155 as the current position. The GPS 155 generates position data indicating the position of the vehicle M and outputs it to the processing unit 130.

The communication unit 157 executes wireless communication conforming to communication standards such as a mobile phone network and Wi-Fi (registered trademark), and transmits and receives various data to and from a device other than the vehicle M, for example, a server device 200. The communication unit 157 operates together with the GPS 155, for example, when the GPS 155 executes positioning by A-GPS.

The storage unit 140 stores the explanatory audio DB 141, the volume DB 142, and the video DB 143 as a database that uses the storage area of the storage unit 140.

The explanatory voice DB 141 stores explanatory sound data indicating the explanatory sound SE for explaining each of the plurality of functional FNs mounted on the vehicle M. The explanatory sound SE includes a voice explaining each of the plurality of functional FNs and various notification sounds. The notification sound includes a start notification sound that notifies the driver that the output of the explanation sound SE is to be started when the explanation sound SE is output.
The plurality of function FNs indicate functions that can be used by the driver of the vehicle M. In this embodiment, a case where the function FN is a driving support function will be described. The "driving support function" indicates a function of assisting the driver in maneuvering the vehicle M. Specifically, the driving support function includes a lane keeping function, a preceding vehicle following function, a parking assist function, and a collision prevention function.

The volume DB 142 is for generating the explanatory sound SE on the plurality of speakers 15 so that the position where the explanatory sound SE is generated for the driver of the vehicle M is localized at the position where the operation unit EP corresponding to the function FN is arranged. The volume value data of each speaker 15 is stored. In other words, the volume DB 142 is a speaker for generating the explanatory sound SE in the plurality of speakers 15 so that the driver recognizes that the explanatory sound SE is output from the position where each of the operation unit EPs is arranged. Stores 15 volume value data.
Specifically, the volume DB 142 stores information indicating the ratio of the five volume values in association with the identification information indicating each of the operation unit EP. For example, the ratio of the five volume values is the first volume value ratio R1, the second volume value ratio R2, the third volume value ratio R3, the fourth volume value ratio R4, and the fifth volume value ratio R5 shown below.

The first volume value ratio R1 indicates the ratio of the volume values of the center speaker 15A in the case where the generation position of the explanation sound SE is localized at the reference position and the case where the generation position of the explanation sound SE is localized in the operation unit EP. .. The reference position indicates, for example, the driver's seating position P1. Further, the operation unit EP is included in a plurality of operation unit EPs.
The second volume value ratio R2 is the ratio of the volume values of the right front speaker 15B between the case where the generation position of the explanation sound SE is localized at the reference position and the case where the generation position of the explanation sound SE is localized at the operation unit EP. Shown. The third volume value ratio R3 is the ratio of the volume values of the left front speaker 15C in the case where the generation position of the explanation sound SE is localized at the reference position and the case where the generation position of the explanation sound SE is localized in the operation unit EP. Shown.
The fourth volume value ratio R4 determines the ratio of the volume values of the left rear speaker 15D between the case where the generation position of the explanation sound SE is localized at the reference position and the case where the generation position of the explanation sound SE is localized at the operation unit EP. Shown. The fifth volume value ratio R5 determines the ratio of the volume values of the right rear speaker 15E in the case where the generation position of the explanation sound SE is localized at the reference position and the case where the generation position of the explanation sound SE is localized in the operation unit EP. Shown.
The first volume value ratio R1 to the fifth volume value ratio R5 will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 4 and 5.

The video DB 143 stores image data to be displayed on the HUD 111 when the processing unit 130 executes a plurality of function FNs mounted on the vehicle M.
Further, the video DB 143 stores image data to be displayed on the HUD 111 when the processing unit 130 outputs an explanatory sound SE for explaining each of the plurality of functional FNs mounted on the vehicle M. This image data is image data that imitates an image displayed on the HUD 111 when the processing unit 130 executes each function FN mounted on the vehicle M.
Further, the video DB 143 stores image data imitating the front view of the vehicle M displayed on the HUD 111 and image data imitating the rear view of the vehicle M displayed on the rear view monitor 112.

The authentication unit 131 executes personal authentication of the driver. Specifically, the authentication unit 131 acquires the driver's face image via the camera 16 and executes the driver's personal authentication based on the acquired driver's face image.
The authentication unit 131 notifies the driver that the operation of the vehicle M is prohibited when the driver's personal authentication fails, and does not accept the operation of the vehicle M from the driver.

When the driver's personal authentication is successful, the driving situation recognition unit 132 transmits the driver's identification information to the server device 200 and acquires the history information from the server device 200. The history information includes information indicating the date and time and the number of times when the explanatory sound SE for explaining each of the plurality of function FNs is output, and information indicating the past driving situation.
Further, the driving situation recognition unit 132 recognizes the past driving situation of the vehicle M by acquiring the information indicating the past driving situation.

The function explanation unit 133 executes a function explanation process for outputting an explanation sound SE for explaining each of the plurality of function FNs from the plurality of speakers 15. The function explanation is a tutorial that explains the usefulness and usage of the function FN to the occupants by outputting voice or notification sound and displaying the screen.
Further, the function explanation unit 133 determines whether or not to execute the function explanation process based on the recognition result of the past driving situation of the vehicle M by the driver by the driving situation recognition unit 132.

For example, when the driving situation recognition unit 132 recognizes that the driver has traveled on the vehicle M while meandering on a straight road, the function explanation unit 133 outputs an explanation sound SE corresponding to the explanation of the lane keeping function. Execute the function description process. As a case where the vehicle M travels while meandering on a straight road, it is assumed that, for example, the road surface of the lane L1 is severely uneven, or the driver's attention to steering is distracted.

Further, for example, when the preceding vehicle is traveling in front of the vehicle M and the driving situation recognition unit 132 recognizes that the inter-vehicle distance D between the vehicle M and the preceding vehicle has increased or decreased by a threshold distance or more, the function explanation unit 133 Executes a function explanation process for outputting an explanation sound SE corresponding to the explanation of the preceding vehicle following function. The threshold distance is, for example, 10 m. When the inter-vehicle distance D between the vehicle M and the preceding vehicle increases or decreases by a threshold distance or more, for example, it is assumed that the preceding vehicle repeatedly accelerates and decelerates, or the slope of the lane changes frequently.
When the driver presses the preceding vehicle tracking execution button B3 to enable the preceding vehicle tracking function, the acceleration / deceleration control of the vehicle M is executed so that the inter-vehicle distance D becomes the target inter-vehicle distance DT. Therefore, the convenience of the driver can be improved by executing the preceding vehicle following function.

Further, the function explanation unit 133 executes the function explanation process only when the vehicle M is stopped. In the present embodiment, "the vehicle M has stopped traveling" means that the vehicle M has stopped continuously for a threshold time or longer. The threshold time is, for example, 3 minutes.

Further, in the function explanation process, the function explanation unit 133 displays a pseudo screen imitating the display state of the HUD 111 at the time of executing the function on the HUD 111 provided in the vehicle M. The pseudo screen will be described in detail with reference to FIG.
For example, when the lane keep function is executed, a function explanation screen (not shown) is displayed on the HUD 111. The function explanation screen includes an image for explaining the lane keeping function. In the function explanation process related to the lane keep function, the function explanation unit 133 displays a pseudo screen imitating the function explanation screen on the HUD 111 provided in the vehicle M.

The sound output control unit 134 controls the sound output from the plurality of speakers 15 to determine the position where the explanatory sound SE is generated for the driver of the vehicle M, and corresponds to the function FN of the operation unit EP installed in the vehicle M. Explanation to localize to the placement position Executes sound localization processing. In other words, the sound output control unit 134 generates the explanation sound SE on the plurality of speakers 15 so that the driver recognizes that the explanation sound SE is output from the position where each of the plurality of operation units EP is arranged. Let me.
The operation unit EP corresponds to an example of "equipment". The operation unit EP is operated when each function FN is enabled. Specifically, the operation unit EP includes a lane keep execution button B1 and a preceding vehicle follow-up execution button B3.

Further, the sound output control unit 134 executes the explanation sound localization process when the function explanation unit 133 outputs the explanation sound SE corresponding to the operation unit EP by the function explanation process. That is, when the function explanation unit 133 outputs the explanation sound SE for explaining each of the plurality of function FNs from the plurality of speakers 15, the sound output control unit 134 sets the generation position of the explanation sound SE as the explanation sound. It is localized at the arrangement position of the operation unit EP corresponding to SE.

For example, when the function explanation unit 133 outputs the explanation sound SE of the lane keep function, the sound output control unit 134 sets the generation position of the explanation sound SE at the timing of explaining the operation for enabling the lane keep function. , Localizes to the arrangement position of the lane keep execution button B1 corresponding to the explanation sound SE. Further, the sound output control unit 134 localizes the generation position of the explanatory sound SE to the arrangement position of the HUD 111 at the timing of displaying the pseudo screen during the lane keeping function operation on the HUD 111 for explanation. With the localization of the generation position of the explanation sound SE, the driver can easily confirm the arrangement position of the lane keep execution button B1 and the display state of the HUD 111 when the lane keep function is enabled.
Further, for example, when the function explanation unit 133 outputs the explanation sound SE of the preceding vehicle following function, the sound output control unit 134 at the timing for explaining the operation for enabling the preceding vehicle following function, the explanation sound SE. Is localized at the position of the preceding vehicle follow-up execution button B3 corresponding to the explanation sound SE. Further, the voice output control unit 134 localizes the generation position of the explanatory sound SE to the arrangement position of the HUD 111 at the timing of displaying the pseudo screen during the preceding vehicle tracking function on the HUD 111 for explanation. With such localization of the explanation sound SE, the driver can easily confirm the arrangement position of the preceding vehicle following vehicle following execution button B3 and the display state of the HUD 111 when the preceding vehicle following vehicle tracking function is enabled.

In the present embodiment, the plurality of speakers 15 are composed of five speakers, and the position where the explanatory sound SE is generated for the driver of the vehicle M is arranged according to the function FN of the operation unit EP equipped on the vehicle M. A plurality of speakers 15 may be configured so as to be localized at the position. The number of speakers 15 may be two or more.

In the present embodiment, the sound output control unit 134 localizes the generation position of the explanation sound SE to the driver of the vehicle M at the position where the operation unit EP corresponding to the function FN is arranged and the HUD 111. A case where SE is generated in a plurality of speakers 15 will be described, but the localization target of the generation position of the explanatory sound SE is not limited to these.
For example, the sound output control unit 134 sets the position where the explanatory sound SE is generated to the driver of the vehicle M to the speaker 15 corresponding to the function FN and the notification unit AN other than the HUD 111 (for example, a warning lamp arranged in the speedometer 171). Etc.) may be localized at the arrangement position.

Further, for example, a plurality of explanatory sound SEs are generated so that the sound output control unit 134 localizes the generation position of the explanatory sound SE for the driver of the vehicle M at the position where the sensing device SD corresponding to the function FN is arranged. It may be generated in the speaker 15. The sensing device SD includes a sensor, an imaging unit, and a radar for executing the function FN.
In this case, at the timing when the function explanation unit 133 explains the sensing device SD, the sound output control unit 134 localizes the generation position of the explanation voice SE to the arrangement position of the sensing device SD. As a result, the driver recognizes that the explanatory sound SE corresponding to the explanation of the function FN is output from the position where the sensing device SD is arranged. Therefore, the driver can easily recognize the position where the sensing device SD is arranged.

In the present embodiment, the sound output control unit 134 executes the explanation sound localization process when the function explanation unit 133 outputs the explanation sound SE corresponding to the operation unit EP, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the sound output control unit 134 may execute the explanation sound localization process when the function explanation unit 133 outputs the notification sound included in the explanation sound SE corresponding to the operation unit EP. The notification sound is, for example, a start notification sound that notifies the driver that the output of the explanation sound SE is to be started when the explanation sound SE is output. That is, when the function explanation unit 133 outputs the start notification sound corresponding to the operation unit EP, the sound output control unit 134 executes the explanation sound localization process. In this case, since the position where the start notification sound is generated is localized at the position where the operation unit EP is arranged, the driver can easily recognize the position where the operation unit EP is arranged.

In the present embodiment, the function explanation unit 133 executes the function explanation process only when the vehicle M is stopped, but the present invention is not limited to this. Even when the vehicle M is stopped, for example, when the driver needs to concentrate on the driving of the vehicle M, the function explanation unit 133 does not execute the function explanation process.
The case where the driver needs to concentrate on driving the vehicle M is, for example, a case where the vehicle M is approaching an intersection or a case where the vehicle M is traveling on a congested road. ..

[1-5. About the 1st volume value ratio to the 5th volume value ratio]
Each of FIGS. 4 and 5 is a plan view showing an example of a method of calculating the first volume value ratio R1 to the fifth volume value ratio R5.
FIG. 4 is a plan view showing a method of calculating the first volume value ratio R1 to the fifth volume value ratio R5 when the operation unit EP is the lane keep execution button B1.

FIG. 4 shows a reference distance L1A, a reference distance L1B, a reference distance L1C, a reference distance L1D, and a reference distance L1E based on the seating position P1 of the driver's seat 21. In the following, the seating committee position P1 will be described as a reference position P1.
The reference distance L1A indicates the distance between the reference position P1 and the center speaker 15A. Specifically, the distance between the center position of the reference position P1 and the center speaker 15A is shown. The reference position P1 indicates the seating position of the driver, which is the reference position. In the following description, the center position of the reference position P1 may be simply referred to as the reference position P1.
The reference distance L1B indicates the distance between the reference position P1 and the right front speaker 15B. The reference distance L1C indicates the distance between the reference position P1 and the left front speaker 15C. The reference distance L1D indicates the distance between the reference position P1 and the left rear speaker 15D. The reference distance L1E indicates the distance between the reference position P1 and the right rear speaker 15E.
Each of the reference distance L1A to the reference distance L1E is indicated by a broken line.

Further, FIG. 4 shows the distance L2A, the distance L2B, the distance L2C, the distance L2D, and the distance L2E.
The distance L2A indicates the distance between the lane keep execution button B1 and the center speaker 15A. The distance L2B indicates the distance between the lane keep execution button B1 and the right front speaker 15B. The distance L2C indicates the distance between the lane keep execution button B1 and the left front speaker 15C. The distance L2D indicates the distance between the lane keep execution button B1 and the left front speaker 15C. The distance L2E indicates the distance between the lane keep execution button B1 and the right rear speaker 15E.
Each of the distance L2A to the distance L2E is shown by a solid line.

The distance L2A is shorter than the reference distance L1A. Therefore, the first volume value ratio R1 is set to a value of 1 or more. The first volume value ratio R1 is calculated by, for example, the following equation (1).
R1 = L1A / L2A (1)
That is, compared with the case where the generation position of the explanation sound SE is localized at the reference position P1, the case where the generation position of the explanation sound SE is localized at the position where the lane keep execution button B1 is arranged is from the center speaker 15A. The volume of the output explanation sound SE is high.
In other words, the smaller the distance between the operation unit EP and the center speaker 15A, the larger the first volume value ratio R1 is set, and the larger the distance between the operation unit EP and the center speaker 15A, the larger the first volume value ratio R1 becomes. Set small.

Similarly, each of the second volume value ratio R2, the third volume value ratio R3, the fourth volume value ratio R4, and the fifth volume value ratio R5 is calculated by the following equations (2) to (5).
R2 = L1B / L2B (2)
R3 = L1C / L2C (3)
R4 = L1D / L2D (4)
R5 = L1E / L2E (5)
In this way, based on the reference distance L1A to the reference distance L1E and the distance L2A to the distance L2E, the operation unit EP is the lane keep execution button B1 using the equations (1) to (5). 1 Volume value ratio R1 to 5th volume value ratio R5 can be calculated.

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a method of calculating the first volume value ratio R1 to the fifth volume value ratio R5 when the operation unit EP is the preceding vehicle follow-up execution button B3.
FIG. 5 shows the distance L3A, the distance L3B, the distance L3C, the distance L3D, and the distance L3E.
The distance L3A indicates the distance between the preceding vehicle follow-up execution button B3 and the center speaker 15A. The distance L3B indicates the distance between the preceding vehicle follow-up execution button B3 and the right front speaker 15B. The distance L3C indicates the distance between the preceding vehicle follow-up execution button B3 and the left front speaker 15C. The distance L3D indicates the distance between the preceding vehicle follow-up execution button B3 and the left front speaker 15C. The distance L3E indicates the distance between the preceding vehicle follow-up execution button B3 and the right rear speaker 15E.

Each of the first volume value ratio R1, the second volume value ratio R2, the third volume value ratio R3, the fourth volume value ratio R4, and the fifth volume value ratio R5 when the operation unit EP is the preceding vehicle follow-up execution button B3. Is calculated by the following equations (6) to (10).
R1 = L1A / L3A (6)
R2 = L1B / L3B (7)
R3 = L1C / L3C (8)
R4 = L1D / L3D (9)
R5 = L1E / L3E (10)
In this way, based on the reference distance L1A to the reference distance L1E and the distance L3A to the distance L3E, the operation unit EP is the preceding vehicle follow-up execution button B3 using the equations (6) to (10). The first volume value ratio R1 to the fifth volume value ratio R5 can be calculated.

The calculation method of the first volume value ratio R1 to the fifth volume value ratio R5 described with reference to FIGS. 4 and 5 is an example of the calculation method of the first volume value ratio R1 to the fifth volume value ratio R5. Not too much. That is, each of the first volume value ratio R1 to the fifth volume value ratio R5 may be calculated by another method, or may be determined by an experiment or the like.
The first volume value ratio R1 to the fifth volume value ratio R5 are stored in the volume DB 142 in association with the identification information indicating the operation unit EP.
The sound output control unit 134 reads the first volume value ratio R1 to the fifth volume value ratio R5 corresponding to the identification information indicating the operation unit EP from the volume DB 142, and reads the first volume value ratio R1 to the fifth volume value ratio R5. The volume of the plurality of speakers 15 is controlled based on the above.

[1-6. Example of function explanation for lane keep function]
FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of the lane keeping function. The "lane keeping function" indicates a function of steering the vehicle M by operating a steering mechanism (not shown) according to an instruction of the ECU so that the vehicle M travels along the lane.
Specifically, when the driver presses the lane keep execution button B1, the lane keep function is enabled, and when the driver presses the lane keep end button B2, the lane keep function is invalidated.

FIG. 6 shows a vehicle M1 traveling on a one-way one-lane road. On the road, white lines WL1 and WL2 indicating the end of the roadway and a center line CL are formed. The lane L1 on which the vehicle M1 travels is arranged between the white line WL1 and the center line CL, and the oncoming lane L2 is arranged between the white line WL2 and the center line CL.

The broken line DL1 in FIG. 6 shows an example of the traveling locus of the vehicle M1 when the lane keeping function is disabled. In this example, although the lane L1 is a straight line, the vehicle M meanders as shown by the broken line DL1.
By enabling the lane keeping function, such meandering of the vehicle M can be suppressed. The solid line DL2 in FIG. 6 shows the traveling locus of the vehicle M1 when the lane keeping function is enabled. That is, as shown in the solid line DL2, the vehicle M travels in a straight line along the lane L1. In this way, by using the lane keeping function, it is possible to support the driving operation of the vehicle M by the driver and stabilize the traveling of the vehicle M.

Therefore, the function explanation unit 133 executes the function explanation process for the lane keep function in the following manner in order to enhance the effect of appealing the lane keep function to the driver. FIG. 7 is a screen view showing an example of the pseudo screen SC displayed on the HUD 111. The pseudo screen SC is a screen that imitates a function explanation screen. The function explanation screen shows a screen displayed on the HUD 111 by the function explanation unit 133 when the function FN is executed.
The pseudo screen SC is displayed on the HUD 111 provided in the vehicle M in the function explanation process by the function explanation unit 133.

The pseudo screen SC shown in FIG. 7 is displayed on the HUD 111 when the function explanation unit 133 outputs the explanation sound SE explaining the lane keeping function.
The pseudo screen SC shows an image that imitates the outside view that the driver of the vehicle M sees in front. The pseudo screen SC is preceded by white line images PWL1 and PWL2 showing white lines laid at the edge of the roadway, center line images PCL showing the center line laid in the center of the roadway, and lane images PL1 and PL2 showing lanes. Includes a preceding vehicle image PMF showing the vehicle. The lane image PL1 is arranged between the white line image PWL1 and the center line image PCL. The lane image PL2 is arranged between the white line image PWL2 and the center line image PCL.

The pseudo screen SC includes a broken line image PDL and an explanatory text image PGD. The broken line image PDL shows the traveling locus of the vehicle M1 after the lane keep execution button B1 is pressed.
Explanatory text image An explanatory text image explaining the lane keeping function is displayed on the PGD. Specifically, the explanatory text image PGD displays an explanatory text image stating, "While the lane keep function is being executed, the vehicle is assisted to drive near the center of the lane indicated by the broken line." .. That is, the explanatory text image PGD indicates that when the lane keeping function is enabled, the driving operation is assisted so that the vehicle M travels along the lane.

The driver can use the lane keep function by visually observing the pseudo screen SC while listening to the explanation sound SE corresponding to the explanation of the lane keep function output by appropriately localizing the generation position as described above. The method can be easily understood, which can enhance the appealing effect on the use of the lane keeping function. Similarly, for other functions provided in the vehicle M, the function explanation process is performed by the explanation sound SE output by appropriately localizing the generation position and the display of the explanation screen to appeal to the use of the function. The effect can be enhanced.

[1-7. Server device configuration]
FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the server device 200.
The server device 200 includes a processing unit 230, a storage unit 240, and a communication unit 250.

The processing unit 230 is, for example, a computer including a processor such as a CPU. A storage unit 240 is connected to the processing unit 230. The storage unit 240 stores the control program, which is a computer program executed by the processing unit 230, and various data processed by the processing unit 230 so that the processing unit 230 can read the control program.

The hardware constituting the processing unit 230 and the storage unit 240 is not limited to a specific aspect. For example, the processing unit 230 may be composed of a single processor. Further, the processing unit 230 may be a device in which a processor, a ROM, a RAM, and the like are integrated. The storage unit 240 may be composed of a non-volatile storage device that non-volatilely stores programs and data, and specifically, may include a magnetic storage device such as a hard disk and a semiconductor storage device such as a flash ROM. Good. Further, the storage unit 240 may include a volatile storage device that temporarily stores programs, data, and the like executed by the processing unit 230. Further, the processing unit 230 and the storage unit 240 may be one integrated device.

The processing unit 230 includes an acquisition unit 231 and a response unit 232 as functional elements or functional units. These functional elements included in the processing unit 230 are realized by the processing unit 230, which is a computer, executing a control program stored in the storage unit 240.
The control program executed by the processing unit 230 can be stored in any computer-readable storage medium. Alternatively, all or part of the functional elements included in the processing unit 230 may be configured by hardware including one or more electronic circuit components.

The processing unit 230 controls each unit of the server device 200 based on the data stored in the storage unit 240 by executing the program stored in the storage unit 240. The processing unit 230 controls the communication unit 250.

The communication unit 250 executes wireless communication conforming to communication standards such as a mobile phone network and Wi-Fi (registered trademark), and transmits and receives various data to and from the audio image control device 100 of the vehicle M.

The storage unit 240 stores the history DB 241 as a database that uses the storage area of the storage unit 240.

The history DB 241 stores the history information in which the explanatory sound SE corresponding to the explanation of the plurality of function FNs is output to the plurality of speakers 15 in association with the driver's identification information.
Specifically, the history DB 241 provides the plurality of speakers 15 with the driver's identification information, the function identification information indicating each of the plurality of function FNs, and the explanation sound SE corresponding to the explanation of the function FN indicated by the function identification information. The output date and time information and the number of times information are stored in association with each other.
Further, the history DB 241 stores information indicating the past driving situation in association with the driver's identification information.
Specifically, the history DB 241 stores the driver's identification information and the moving image information indicating the past driving situation in association with each other. The moving image information indicating the past driving situation is acquired by, for example, a drive recorder mounted on the vehicle M.
The history DB 241 corresponds to an example of the “operation status recording unit”.

The acquisition unit 231 acquires the driver's identification information from the authentication unit 131 of the audio image control device 100.

The response unit 232 includes history information corresponding to the driver's identification information, that is, date / time information and number of times information in which explanatory sound SEs corresponding to the explanations of the plurality of function FNs are output to the plurality of speakers 15 and the past. The moving image information indicating the operating status of the above is transmitted to the audio image control device 100.
The driving situation recognition unit 132 of the audio image control device 100 receives information indicating the past driving situation from the response unit 232, and recognizes the past driving situation of the vehicle M based on this information. The function explanation unit 133 determines whether or not to execute the function explanation process based on the result of the driver's recognition of the past driving situation of the vehicle M by the driving situation recognition unit 132.
Further, the function explanation unit 133 receives from the response unit 232 the date and time information and the number of times information in which the explanation sound SE corresponding to each explanation of the plurality of function FNs is output to the plurality of speakers 15, and uses these information. Based on this, it is decided whether or not to execute the function explanation process.

[1-8. Function description Processing execution procedure]
FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the operation of the function explanation processing by the audio image control device 100.
The operation shown in FIG. 9 is executed by the processing unit 130 of the audio image control device 100. Specifically, the processing of steps S101-S102 is executed by the authentication unit 131, and the processing of steps S106-S107 is executed by the operation status recognition unit 132. The processing of steps S108-S111 and S113 is executed by the function explanation unit 133, and the processing of step S112 is executed by the function explanation unit 133 and the sound output control unit 134.

The processing unit 130 acquires the driver's face image (S101) and executes personal authentication based on the face image (S102). The processing unit 130 determines whether or not the personal authentication is successful (S103). When the personal authentication fails (S103; NO), the processing unit 130 notifies the driver that the operation is not possible (S104), and ends this processing.

If the personal authentication is successful (S103; YES), the processing unit 130 acquires the driver's identification information (step S105). The processing unit 130 acquires the history information corresponding to the identification information from the server device 200 (step S106). The processing unit 130 recognizes the past driving status of the vehicle M by the driver based on the history information (step S107). The processing unit 130 selects a function FN recommended to be used by the driver from the plurality of function FNs based on the recognition result of the operation status (step S108), and determines whether or not to execute the function explanation process. (Step S109).

When it is determined that the function description process is not executed (S109; NO), the processing unit 130 proceeds to step S114 described later. When it is determined that the function explanation process is to be executed (S109; YES), the processing unit 130 determines whether or not the vehicle M has stopped traveling (step S110). When it is determined that the vehicle M has not stopped traveling (step S110; NO), the processing unit 130 notifies the driver that the function explanation processing cannot be executed (step S111), and the processing unit 130. 130 shifts to step S114 described later.

When it is determined that the vehicle M has stopped traveling (step S110; YES), the function explanation unit 133 of the processing unit 130 describes the function FN selected in step S108 by steps S112 and S113. Execute the process. In step S112, the sound output control unit 134 localizes the generation position of the explanatory sound SE as described above with reference to FIGS. 4 and 5, and generates a plurality of explanatory sound SEs corresponding to the explanation of the function FN. Output from the speaker 15. In step S113, the display control unit 135 displays on the HUD 111 a pseudo screen when the function FN is enabled as described above with reference to FIG. 7 (step S113).

The function explanation unit 133 determines whether or not to end the output of the explanation sound SE corresponding to the explanation of the plurality of function FNs (S114). For example, the processing unit 130 determines whether or not to end the output of the explanatory sound SE based on the operation by the driver. If it is determined that the output of the explanatory sound SE is not terminated (S114; NO), the processing unit 130 proceeds to step S110. When it is determined that the output of the explanatory sound SE is finished (S114; YES), this process is finished.

Steps S112 and S113 correspond to an example of the "function explanation step". Further, step S112 corresponds to an example of "audio output control step".

[2. Other embodiments]
The present invention is not limited to the configuration of the above embodiment, and can be implemented in various embodiments without departing from the gist thereof.

For example, in the above embodiment, in the above embodiment, the output of the five speakers 15 is controlled to localize the generation position of the explanation sound SE, but by controlling the outputs from at least two speakers, the explanation sound SE The position where the sound is generated may be localized.

Further, in the above embodiment, the case where the function FN is a driving support function has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this. The function FN may be a function mounted on the vehicle M so that the driver can use it. For example, the function FN includes a steering function, an acceleration / deceleration function, and an operation mode selection function. The steering function indicates a function in which the driver adjusts the traveling direction DR of the vehicle M. The acceleration / deceleration function indicates a function in which the driver adjusts the traveling speed of the vehicle M. The operation mode selection function indicates a function of selecting four modes corresponding to each of the four positions selectable by the selector 18.

Further, in the above embodiment, the function explanation unit 133 selects a function FN suitable for the driver from a plurality of function FNs based on the result of the driver's recognition of the past driving condition of the vehicle M by the driving condition recognition unit 132. However, the present invention is not limited to this. The function explanation unit 133 may select a function FN suitable for the driver from a plurality of function FNs based on the driver's selection operation or operation. For example, when the driver is wondering whether to press the lane keep execution button B1 or not is recognized from the captured image of the camera 16, the function explanation unit 133 performs the lane keep function from a plurality of function FNs. select.

Further, in the above embodiment, the vehicle M includes a HUD 111, a front display 113, and a rear view monitor 112 as display devices, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The vehicle M may include at least one display as a display device. For example, the vehicle M may include only the HUD 111 as a display device. Further, the vehicle M may include a side view monitor as a display device for displaying the outside view of the right rear side and the left rear side of the vehicle M.

Further, in the above embodiment, the specific configurations of the front display 113 and the rear view monitor 112 are not limited. For example, the front display 113 and the rear view monitor 112 may be configured by a transmissive liquid crystal display panel provided with a backlight. Further, it may be composed of a self-luminous display panel such as an organic EL display panel. Further, the front display 113 and the rear view monitor 112 are not limited to the light emitting type display, and may be configured by, for example, a reflective liquid crystal display panel.

Further, in the above embodiment, the authentication unit 131 executes the driver's personal authentication based on the face image, but the present invention is not limited to this. The authentication unit 131 may execute the driver's personal authentication based on the fingerprint, the retina, or the like.

Further, in the above embodiment, the function explanation device of the present invention is configured as a part of the function of the audio image control device 100 provided in the vehicle M, but one of the functions of the mobile terminal used by the occupant of the vehicle M. It may be configured as a part. In this case, the output sounds from the plurality of speakers 15 are controlled by communication between the mobile terminal and the ECU of the vehicle M, and the function explanation process is executed in the manner of localizing the sounds described above. Further, the function explanation device of the present invention may be configured as a part of the function of the server device 200. In this case, the output sounds from the plurality of speakers 15 are controlled by communication between the server device 200 and the ECU of the vehicle M, and the function explanation process is executed according to the above-described sound localization mode.

[3. Summary]
As described above, the sound image control device 100 as the function explanation device of the present embodiment is a sound image control device 100 for explaining the function FN provided in the vehicle M having the plurality of speakers 15. The function explanation unit 133 that executes the function explanation process for outputting the explanation sound SE for explaining the function FN from the speaker 15, and the sound from the plurality of speakers 15 at the position where the explanation sound SE for the driver of the vehicle M is generated. It includes a sound output control unit 134 that controls the output and executes an explanatory sound localization process that localizes to the arrangement position of the operation unit EP equipped on the vehicle M according to the function FN.

Further, the vehicle M includes an audio image control device 100.

Further, the sound control method executed by the sound image control device 100 is a function explanation method executed by the processing unit 130 in order to explain the function FN provided in the vehicle M having the plurality of speakers 15, and is processed. A plurality of function explanation steps for executing the function explanation process in which the unit 130 outputs the explanation sound SE for explaining the function FN from the plurality of speakers 15 and the generation position of the explanation sound SE for the driver of the vehicle M are set. The sound output control step of controlling the sound output from the speaker 15 and executing the explanatory sound localization process for localizing to the arrangement position of the operation unit EP equipped on the vehicle M corresponding to the function FN is included.
Each of these steps corresponds to step S112 in FIG. The operation unit EP corresponds to an example of equipment.

Therefore, according to each of the voice image control device 100, the vehicle M, and the voice control method executed by the voice image control device 100, the driver is at a position where the operation unit EP in which the explanation sound SE corresponds to the function FN is arranged. Recognize that it is output from. Therefore, the driver can easily recognize the position of the operation unit EP corresponding to the function FN. As a result, it is possible to enhance the appealing effect on the use of the functional FN provided in the vehicle M.

Further, the sound output control unit 134 may be configured to execute the explanation sound localization process when the explanation sound SE corresponding to the operation unit EP is output by the function explanation process.
According to this configuration, since the explanation sound localization process is executed when the explanation sound SE corresponding to the operation unit EP is output, the driver can easily recognize the arrangement position of the operation unit EP corresponding to the function FN. .. Therefore, it is possible to enhance the appealing effect on the use of the functional FN provided in the vehicle M.

Further, the equipment may be configured to be one of an operation unit EP for enabling the function FN, a notification unit AN for indicating the execution status of the function FN, and a sensing device SD for executing the function FN. Good.
According to this configuration, the driver can easily recognize the arrangement position of any one of the operation unit EP, the notification unit AN, and the sensing device SD corresponding to the function FN. Therefore, it is possible to enhance the appealing effect on the use of the functional FN provided in the vehicle M.

Further, the function FN is a driving support function of the vehicle M, and is a driving status that recognizes the past driving status of the vehicle M by the driver by accessing the history DB 241 that records the past driving status of the vehicle M by the driver. The recognition unit 132 is provided, and the function explanation unit 133 also has a configuration for determining whether or not to execute the function explanation process based on the result of the driver's recognition of the past driving condition of the vehicle M by the driving condition recognition unit 132. Good.
According to this configuration, since it is determined whether or not to execute the function explanation process based on the recognition result of the past driving situation, it is possible to appropriately determine whether or not to execute the function explanation process.

Further, the vehicle M is provided with a plurality of driving support functions, and the function explanation unit 133 selects a driving support function suitable for the driver based on the past driving situation of the vehicle M by the driver, and the selected driving It may be configured to execute the function explanation process for the support function.
According to this configuration, since the driving support function suitable for the driver is selected based on the past driving situation of the vehicle M by the driver, the driving support function suitable for the driver can be selected.

Further, the function explanation unit 133 may be configured to execute the function explanation process only when the vehicle M is stopped.
According to this configuration, when executing the function explanation process, the driver can concentrate on listening to the explanation sound SE for explaining the function FN. Therefore, the driver can efficiently acquire the functional FN.

Further, the function explanation unit 133 may be configured to display a pseudo screen SC imitating the display state of the HUD 111 at the time of executing the function on the HUD 111 provided in the vehicle M in the function explanation process.
According to this configuration, the driver can visually recognize the pseudo screen SC while listening to the explanation sound SE. Therefore, the driver can efficiently acquire the functional FN.

1 ... Audio image control system, 10 ... Vehicle interior, 14 ... Steering wheel, 15 ... Speaker, 15A ... Center speaker, 15B ... Right front speaker, 15C ... Left front speaker, 15D ... Left rear speaker, 15E ... Right rear speaker, 16 ... Camera, 17 ... Display member (notification unit), 171 ... Speedometer, 172 ... Rotation speedometer, 18 ... Selector, 100 ... Audio image control device (function explanation device), 110 ... Navigation device, 111 ... HUD (Display) Device), 112 ... rear view monitor, 113 ... front display, 114 ... touch sensor, 130 ... processing unit (computer), 131 ... authentication unit, 132 ... operation status recognition unit, 133 ... function explanation unit, 134 ... sound output control unit , 135 ... Display control unit, 140 ... Storage unit, 141 ... Explanation voice DB, 142 ... Volume DB, 143 ... Video DB, 151 ... Voice processing circuit, 153 ... Vehicle speed sensor, 155 ... GPS, 157 ... Communication unit, 200 ... Server device, 230 ... Processing unit, 231 ... Acquisition unit, 232 ... Response unit, 240 ... Storage unit, 241 ... History DB (operation status recording unit), 250 ... Communication unit, AN ... Notification unit (equipment), B1 ... Lane keep execution button, B2 ... lane keep end button, B3 ... preceding vehicle follow-up execution button, B4 ... preceding vehicle follow-up end button, D ... inter-vehicle distance, DR ... traveling direction, DT ... target inter-vehicle distance, EP ... operation unit (equipment) Product), EX ... Display (equipment), FN ... Function, L1A to L1E ... Reference distance, L2A to L2E, L3A to L3E ... Distance, M ... Vehicle (moving body), P1 ... Reference position, P1 to P5 ... Seating position, R1 ... 1st volume value ratio, R2 ... 2nd volume value ratio, R3 ... 3rd volume value ratio, R4 ... 4th volume value ratio, R5 ... 5th volume value ratio, SC ... Pseudo screen, SD ... Sensing device, SE ... Explanation sound.

Claims (9)

A function explanation device for explaining a function provided in a moving body having a plurality of speakers.
A function explanation unit that executes a function explanation process that outputs an explanation sound for explaining the function from the plurality of speakers, and a function explanation unit.
An explanatory sound that localizes the position where the explanatory sound is generated with respect to the occupant of the moving body to the arrangement position of the equipment equipped on the moving body in response to the function by controlling the sound outputs from the plurality of speakers. A sound output control unit that executes localization processing,
Function explanation device including. The sound output control unit executes the explanation sound localization process when the explanation sound corresponding to the equipment is output by the function explanation process.
The functional explanation device according to claim 1. The equipment is one of an operation unit for enabling the function, a notification unit for indicating the execution status of the function, and a sensing device for executing the function.
The functional explanation device according to claim 1 or 2. The function is a driving support function of the moving body, and is
The occupant is the driver of the moving body and
A driving situation recognition unit that accesses a driving situation recording unit that records the past driving situation of the moving body by the driver and recognizes the past driving situation of the moving body by the driver is provided.
The function explanation unit determines whether or not to execute the function explanation process based on the result of the driver's recognition of the past driving situation of the moving body by the driving situation recognition unit.
The function explaining device according to any one of claims 1 to 3. The moving body has a plurality of the driving support functions.
The function explanation unit selects the driving support function suitable for the driver based on the past driving situation of the moving body by the driver, and executes the function explanation processing for the selected driving support function. To do,
The functional explanation device according to claim 4. The function explanation unit executes the function explanation process only when the moving body has stopped moving.
The function explaining device according to any one of claims 1 to 5. In the function explanation process, the function explanation unit displays a pseudo screen imitating the display state of the display device at the time of executing the function on the display device provided in the moving body.
The function explaining device according to any one of claims 1 to 6. A moving body including the function explanation device according to any one of claims 1 to 7. A function description method performed by a computer to describe a function provided in a moving body having a plurality of speakers.
A function explanation step in which the computer executes a function explanation process for outputting an explanation sound for explaining the function from the plurality of speakers.
An explanatory sound that localizes the position where the explanatory sound is generated with respect to the occupant of the moving body to the arrangement position of the equipment equipped on the moving body in response to the function by controlling the sound outputs from the plurality of speakers. A sound output control step that executes localization processing, and
Function description method including.

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