DE102007029034A1 - Display device for motor vehicle, comprises multiple display elements, where each display element is operated independently by driver assistance system from multiple driver assistance systems of vehicle - Google Patents

Abstract

The display device comprises multiple display elements, where each display element is operated independently by a driver assistance system from multiple driver assistance systems of a vehicle. The display elements together form a primary main circular indicator ring and a secondary main circular indicator ring. The secondary main circular indicator ring encloses the primary main circular indicator ring. A driver assistance system is assigned to a display element for monitoring the display element in a specific direction.

Description

The The invention relates to a display device for a motor vehicle.

The Variety of driver assistance systems in modern motor vehicles brings a variety of ads in the human-system interface such a motor vehicle with it.

Driver assistance systems assist the driver in the safe execution of driving tasks. Here, driving tasks can essentially be classified as follows:
Stabilization tasks (eg longitudinal and lateral control), maneuvering tasks (eg overtaking) and strategic tasks (eg navigation).

Examples Today's driver assistance systems that stabilize the driver support can, are driver assistance systems for collision warning, lane departure warning, ABS, stability control, Etc.

Examples Today's driver assistance systems that maneuver the driver while maneuvering support can, are driver assistance systems for Lane change warning or parking assistant.

Examples Today's driver assistance systems that provide the driver with strategic Support tasks can, are driver assistance systems for Traffic jam messages and accurate navigation.

On Reason younger technological developments (eg vehicle-vehicle communication, vehicle-infrastructure communication, improved sensor performance, etc.) are increasingly available Types of driver assistance systems available. As non-conclusive catchword enumeration may be: distance information, stop sign and red traffic light warning, information in terms of Speed Limit, Local Hazard Warning, Heading Control, Autonomous Emergency Brake, Curve warning, road preview, cross traffic warning, false license warning.

Under Driver assistance systems are hereinafter both driver information systems (eg navigation system) as well as systems that are fully or partially automatically intervene in the vehicle guidance (eg lane keeping system).

Known Display devices and operating devices for driver assistance systems in Overwhelm motor vehicles the driver occasionally. The information display of such display devices and / or the operation of such controls distract the driver circumstances even from the actual driving task, causing dangerous traffic situations can be provoked.

task The invention is to provide a display device for a motor vehicle, the driver a simple withdrawal of information regarding operating conditions of a Variety of driver assistance systems of the motor vehicle allows.

Is solved this object by a display device with the features of Claim 1. Advantageous embodiments and further developments of the invention will become apparent from the dependent claims.

By the display device according to the invention are operating states a plurality of driver assistance systems of the motor vehicle in very compact and easily interpretable form.

The Ring structure of the display device allows a particularly efficient Information transfer to the driver.

According to the invention the display device a plurality of display elements. Through each This display element is an operating state of at least one driver assistance system from a variety of driver assistance systems of the motor vehicle independently represented. The relevant at least one driver assistance system is the particular display element for this purpose preferably fixed assigned.

Under an operating state is an on state and / or availability state of understand each driver assistance system.

According to one preferred embodiment of Invention directed specifically to the display of power-on states is, by each display element is a power-on state at least a driver assistance system independently displayed.

The display device or the respective display element then indicates whether the respective driver assistance system is switched on or off. If a plurality of driver assistance systems are assigned to a display element, this display element can indicate whether at least one of these driver assistance systems is switched on or whether at least one of these driver assistance systems is switched off. The optional combination of the display of operating states of several driver assistance systems on a single display element fewer total display elements are required and the display device can be made more compact and clear. In the simplest case, exactly two display states of the respective display suffice for this purpose geelements off. If, however, more than two display states are provided for the respective display element, the display can be activated in a suitable manner-for example in different brightness levels-in order to display different numbers of switched-on driver assistance systems assigned to the display element.

According to one another preferred embodiment of the invention specifically directed to the display of availability conditions is, by each display element is an availability state, at least a driver assistance system independently displayed.

The Display device then indicates whether the respective driver assistance system available in the current situation is. If the respective driver assistance system is not available, can the display continues to differentiate whether there is a defect, or whether the current driving situation is accompanied by conditions under where the driver assistance system can not be used. Are one Display element associated with several driver assistance systems, this display element indicate whether at least one of these driver assistance systems is available or whether at least one of these driver assistance systems is not available. If for the respective display element provided more than two display states can, the ad in a suitable manner - for example in different brightness levels - be activated to different Numbers available and to display the driver driver systems associated with the display element.

The Display device comprises a plurality of display elements, the together at least a first substantially circular display ring and form a second substantially circular indicator ring, wherein the second indicator ring encloses the first indicator ring. Depending on the embodiment For example, the display device may include other display rings a third substantially circular display ring comprising the encloses second indicator ring etc.

These Design of the display device according to the invention is based on the metaphor of protection rings or protection zones, surrounding the motor vehicle. An indicator ring then corresponds to one Guard ring or a protection zone.

By the use of such display rings may be a vehicle occupant, in particular the driver, for example, different degrees of danger in particularly understandable Fashion presented become. The Anzeigeringen can For example, different degrees of risk and / or different Grade of time criticality be assigned.

The Display rings can have a different thickness. That way too or additionally Meaning contents are taught. For example, you can this also different degrees of importance and / or criticality and / or frequency of use of associated driver assistance systems expressed or considered become. It may also be the number of associated driver assistance systems expressed by the thickness of a ring.

to reinforcement The guard ring metaphor can be found inside the innermost display ring, for example, the first display ring, graphically or symbolically be shown an image of the motor vehicle. The image of the motor vehicle then serves as it were as explanation the display concept, because the display elements arranged around the image be - conditioned through the presence of the image - intuitive in the operator a spatial Relation to the real motor vehicle set. The driver interprets The display rings surrounding the image of the motor vehicle are intuitive as an indication related to protection rings that the real motor vehicle surround. An indicator of a far inside, d. H. near the image, arranged display ring is perceived as close to the real motor vehicle. A display element, which is located to the right of the image, is understood as a signal which refers to the right side of the motor vehicle. For give the appropriately informed or trained user Of course, these advantages independently the presence of an image already from the fundamental inventive structure the display device. However, you can they are reinforced by the image become.

Preferably The rings formed by the display elements are actually circular or approximately circular. The guard ring metaphor is for the operator then very clearly removable and helpful. Under the wording "im However, for example, "substantially circular" are intended also oval or polygon-shaped and similar Structures fall.

Preferably are the essentially circular Display rings arranged substantially concentric. This facilitates the intuitive understanding of the display concept.

One Display ring can in the simplest case by a - then even ring - single Display element are formed. This can be for all display rings or only for one Part of the indicator rings apply. The display is then particularly easy to realize technically.

However, one particular advantage can be advantageous Composition of a display ring of a plurality of display elements, each forming a ring sector of the display ring. For example, a ring sector for "front", "right", "rear" and "left" may be provided. The ring sectors can extend over equal angular ranges, for example, each 90 degrees in four ring sectors or each 45 degrees in eight ring sectors. However, the ring sectors may also deliberately extend over different sized angular ranges, for example, to illustrate the number and / or importance of the associated driver assistance systems. For example, a "front" ring sector may be intentionally wider than a "back" ring sector. This corresponds to the greater significance of the "forward", that is to say in the direction of travel, driver assistance with respect to the "rearward" driver assistance.

The individual ring sectors of a display ring can directly to each other adjoin. The display elements then form optically for the user a closed ring, which is the aforementioned guard ring metaphor continues to support. But it can also be a distance between two adjacent display elements be provided that interrupts the display ring slightly without his annular basic form throughout repealed. The display elements are then optically for the user separable, even if it activates similar, z. B. in the same color are illuminated.

Advantageous in particular, if the first and the second display ring respectively Sector wise composed of several display elements and the limiting angle of at least a first ring sector of the first Displaying rings with the limiting angles of at least one second Match ring sector of the second display ring. This match can be approximate but is preferably accurate. The first ring sector and the second ring sector are then each other from the perspective of a viewer clearly assigned. Together they form a sector or subsector the display device. For common activation, for example common lighting, is the corresponding sector of the display device particularly clearly highlighted. The term used above The limiting angle of a sector or ring sector is as follows explained by an example. If on the dial of an analog clock the time 3 o'clock the angle 0 degrees and the time 6 o'clock corresponds to the angle -90 degrees, then the sector has the limit angle -30 degrees between 4 o'clock and 5 o'clock (at 4 o'clock) and -60 Degrees (at 5 o'clock).

The same considerations, the above re Spacing and immediate abutment of ring sectors employed were, apply accordingly for adjacent indicator rings. So it can be the first display ring the second indicator ring in places or even on its entire "Touch" the circumference, or alternatively be aware of a distance between the Anzeigeringen provided.

Preferably Each display element is designed so that its visual appearance at least two visually distinguishable states can take. For example Each display element can be backlit by a light-emitting diode or light bulb his or the light emitting diode or light bulb itself forms the display element. The switching on and off of the lamp then determines the display state. Also advantageous is the illuminability in different colors. So can for example, the states OFF (not lit), ON (lit in color 1) and WARNING (illuminated in color 2) distinguishable.

Preferably each display element is separately controllable.

The Display device can also be designed as a display or screen, on which the display elements are displayed. This results in a very high flexibility the presentation. The display device can in particular as so be formed called head-up display.

Provided this is technically possible is (for example when using an LCD display) can for display purposes Also, the geometry of a display element to be changed. For example the display element can be widened when activated. It will then in a sense the display ring to which the display element belongs at the location of the display element widened. It can also and in particular provided several stages of activation such be that the width of a display element - and thus the thickness of the corresponding indicator ring at the corresponding position - adjustable is dependent from the number of available or available driver assistance systems, the the display element for the display of the operating state are assigned.

Next the display of operating conditions can the display device also serve to display warnings. Also in this regard can be associated with a display element a plurality of driver assistance systems, to display warnings of these driver assistance systems if required. Individual driver assistance systems can therefore also with regard to the display of warning states be grouped by the display device.

The assignment of driver assistance systems to the display elements with respect to warnings may be the same as the assignment of Fah rerassistenzsystemen to the display elements with respect to operating conditions. However, it can also be deliberately deviated from this. According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, for example, warnings of an optical type emanating from a driver assistance system are always effected by display elements of the sector in which the display element is located, by which at least one operating state (eg switch-on state) of this driver assistance system is displayed. However, display elements of this sector, which do not serve to indicate the operating state of this driver assistance system, are also used to output the warnings. In this embodiment of the invention, the driver assistance systems with regard to the output of warnings are thus assigned primarily to a specific sector and not to a specific display element. However, according to a specific variant of this preferred embodiment of the invention, an assignment to a specific display element within the sector or even to a plurality of display elements within the sector may result from the time-criticality of a warning to be output.

Preferably are different ways of activating a display element provided to display a warning of the indication of an operating condition (eg switch-on state) to make distinguishable. The permanent one Illumination of a display element can therefore be switched on State of all this display element associated driver assistance systems signal. A flashing of a display element or its permanent Lighting in changed Color (eg red instead of green) On the other hand, a warning state of at least one of the display element signaling associated driver assistance system.

Also by combining the display of warnings from several driver assistance systems on a single display element are less total display elements needed and the display device can be made more compact and clearer. If several driver assistance systems are assigned to the display element, Although a warning from the user's point of view, not initially solely on the basis of the display element a specific driver assistance system be assigned. The output of alerts is sort of "parent", however for a correct reaction by the driver an exact assignment between Warning and driver assistance system in many cases not required anyway. For example, it may be enough when the driver blinks on a display element to be assigned to the sector "front" first reacts with a brake or at least with increased attention and later (or never) a more accurate picture of the exact cause of Alert.

A parent Definition of alerts can also be made such that - as above already mentioned - warnings certain driver assistance systems by the display elements of a certain sector.

to Differentiation of warnings can optionally or an additional Enlightenment symbolism and / or an additional one Enlightenment text provided become. For example, one by the respective display element still unspecifically displayed warning be specified.

According to one preferred embodiment of present invention is at least one driver assistance system, which for monitoring one arranged in a certain direction with respect to the motor vehicle Part of the vehicle environment is used, with regard to the display of operating conditions and / or Warnings are associated with a sector of the display device that is in corresponding direction regarding the center of the first display ring is arranged. The assignment can be even more detailed by using a driver assistance system, which for monitoring one arranged in a certain direction with respect to the motor vehicle Part of the vehicle environment is used, especially in terms of Display of operating states, but possibly also with regard to the display of warnings assigned to a particular display element, which in corresponding Direction regarding the center of the first display ring is arranged. With others In words, the assignment is made between the driver assistance systems or their operating states and / or warnings and the display elements according to this preferred embodiment The present invention is based on a spatial assignment of a task the respective driver assistance system to the motor vehicle. It will a kind of "danger mapping" can by appropriate allocation to the sectors of the display device or the ring sectors of a display ring very simply technically be implemented. Preferably, the majority and / or are all Driver assistance systems of the motor vehicle in the above Manner with regard to the display of operating conditions and / or Warnings associated with a sector or display element.

A such assignment can be very much in terms of the display of operating conditions be beneficial. The driver is then informed to an improved extent which Parts of the vehicle environment are effectively monitored or in which Parts of the vehicle environment currently no surveillance takes place because the corresponding driver assistance systems deactivated or not available are.

A however, such assignment may also be in terms of issuing alerts be beneficial. The driver can then issued warnings a lot simply assign it to a corresponding part of the vehicle environment and so there recognized by the driver assistance system danger faster detect.

According to one particularly preferred embodiment the invention is for at least one driver assistance system, which is for monitoring one arranged in a certain direction with respect to the motor vehicle Part of the vehicle environment is used, both an operating state of this Driver assistance system as well as a warning of this driver assistance system can be output by the same display element and this display element is in the corresponding direction with respect to the center of the first Displayings arranged. The assignment is up in this case the level of the display elements in detail.

It but may alternatively be useful, only the assignment in terms the display of the operating states to detail down to the level of the display elements, the assignment with regard to the display of warnings, however, only to the level of Sectors. For example, then the operating state of a driver assistance system assigned to Auffahrwarnung a very specific display element in the sector "front" and associated visual warnings will also spend in the sector "front", however not necessarily exclusively through this display element.

The The aforementioned guard ring metaphor is determined by the direction assignment refined so that the direction is also displayed in which a guard ring (represents is activated by the respective display ring) or from which one Danger threatens.

The above-mentioned monitoring a part of the vehicle environment is preferably designed that they capture and evaluate a differential speed of the motor vehicle to at least one other vehicle. This can for The supervision of an individual considered Driver assistance systems apply, but preferably this applies to the monitoring all considered Driver assistance systems.

Preferably are the displayable warnings of the driver assistance systems of the motor vehicle or the driver assistance systems themselves in terms of their time criticality in groups divisible. The division can affect the distributable warnings or refer to the driver assistance systems themselves, which the Issue warnings. This distinction is deleted or becomes superfluous if the concept of a driver assistance system is defined by each provided in the vehicle driver assistance system only warnings of a type can be issued. This is in the present case without restriction the general public.

Especially The mentioned classification for driver assistance systems seems sensible with similar content Tasks. For example, it is clear that warnings from the driver assistance system "Guidance Medium" are more time-critical as warnings of the driver assistance system "Guidance early." Even more time-critical are warnings of the driver assistance system "Tracking late" the time criticality In turn, formed groups of driver assistance systems can each one Display ring are assigned. Driver assistance systems for output time-critical warnings are for simplicity's sake also referred to as time-critical driver assistance systems.

Operating states more time-critical Driver assistance systems are preferably one further inside assigned display ring, operating conditions less time-critical Driver assistance systems to a more external display ring. Of the Driver can easily see the ad, whether the current Operating state (i.e., availability and / or Activation state) in a certain direction (or generally) a surveillance the vehicle environment ensures which offers "long-term" security, because before issuing a time-critical alert with alerts low time criticality is expected (this is the case when driver assistance systems with low time criticality activated and available are), or may be short-term Reactions to time-critical warnings take place without warning have to (This is the case when driver assistance systems with low time criticality do not activated and / or unavailable).

Also the time criticality a warning can be expressed Be sure to put the alert on one farther in or one farther Outside displayed display ring is displayed. The driver can use the display device then see how close in time a danger already is and how fast he has to react.

Alternatively or additionally, the intrusiveness, ie the urgency or intensity, of a warning can give the driver information about how time-critical the warning is, ie how fast he has to react. For example, alerts may be presented by activating a single ring sector on a single display ring. For example, at the next higher level of time criticality, the display area of the alert may be increased by adding more ring sectors of the same sector. example example, two adjacent illuminated display elements together give a larger luminous area than a single one of the two display elements. The warning indicator then extends over several indicator rings. Alternatively or additionally, the intensity or intrusivity of the visual warning can also be increased by increasing the brightness of the display. An even higher level of time criticality may be symbolized by movement (e.g., graphical display of a wave-like motion) or flashing of one or more display elements. In addition, additional haptic and / or audible warnings can be output in stages of higher time criticality. In particular, time-critical warnings are thus preferably signaled not only visually, but also haptically and / or acoustically. The output of the haptic and / or audible warnings can be done in a conventional manner.

A Allocation can be made in such a way that alerts that are refer to driver assistance systems whose operating conditions in the same Display ring, with the same intrusiveness signaled become. Such an assignment then preferably applies in all sectors. If So the warnings of the two driver assistance systems X1 and Y1 as little time-critical and different directions (corresponding to sectors A and B) may accordingly the operating state of X1 through the outermost display element of the sector A will be displayed while the operating state of Y1 through the outermost display element of the sector B is displayed. A warning of the driver assistance system X1 is with the same intrusiveness displayed in sector A as a warning of the driver assistance system Y1 in sector B.

warnings can, as already indicated, by an additional enlightenment symbolism be concretised (eg symbol for rear-end collision in dense Distance to the front vehicle). The reconnaissance symbol may be an optional one Replacing the intended image of the motor vehicle in the center of the indicator rings. But it can also have its own display device or its own Display element for the enlightenment symbolism be provided.

The invention is based on the following considerations:
The information provided by driver assistance systems with regard to the degree of danger of the traffic situation and impending changes in the degree of danger are often time-critical in nature.

border human performance and thus the performance The driver of a motor vehicle, for example, insist that in situations with elevated Stress or workload the cognitive performance, d. H. the fortune, information higher complexity (symbol-based information - text, To process symbols) decreases. Also, the variability of eye movements can be to reduce; There are fewer eye movements in the concentrated Area near the "road centers ". In addition, the area of the peripheral field of view, from the Information to be included, zoom out.

The Inventive display device is thus executed that the presented visual information concentrates, integrated and largely signal-based presented becomes. This ensures an intuitive response of the driver. The term "signal-based" refers to a known theory according to Rasmussen (1983), according to which information processing at the levels "knowledge-based", "rule-based" and "skill-based". Knowledge-based information processing takes place here on higher cognitive Level (eg text or more elaborate Symbols). Processing such information leads to a higher cognitive Stress. "Skill-based" processable information are simple signals (such as the sudden flashing of a surface or LED). The display device according to the invention is "signal based" as it is specifically uses such simple display signals that can be processed by the driver as "skill-based" as possible are. The processing of such information requires only low cognitive In some cases, resources can also be used in parallel with the processing of more complex ones Information takes place. Unless the information in the visual Modality presented will, can signal-based stimuli also over the peripheral field of vision can be perceived.

The Most of the known information displays for driver assistance systems are In contrast, executed symbol-based, which for the processing ("knowledge-based") of the information output high cognitive performance is required by the user. In most cases are different information displays associated with each driver assistance systems presented in various places in the vehicle interior, giving the driver the simultaneous detection is difficult. In addition, the context is missing between the various displays from the perspective of the driver. These Factors lead that certain information is not or not timely are processed; the time required for the necessary classification, Recording and processing of the information, thus the reaction time is often very long. The situation awareness is not sustainable guaranteed. This can lead to inappropriate resource allocation and thus carries an increased risk of excessive driver distraction.

To overcome From these disadvantages, the approach of the invention provides a user-centered execution of Information displays for Driver assistance systems before, d. H. an embodiment based on the characteristics human performance - and not from a system perspective.

Of the inventive approach also sees a signal-based execution of information displays for driver assistance systems in front. this makes possible an improved processing in situations with increased stress or workload.

Of the inventive approach also sees a metaphor-based execution of information displays for driver assistance systems in front. this leads to a more intuitive and thus faster and less strenuous Classification of the signals.

According to the invention Information displays of various driver assistance systems integrated and concentrated as a combined information display. Warning signals are defined as superordinate, d. H. Information from various driver assistance systems, the same or a similar reaction require (eg brakes) and / or represent a comparable hazard, be from a parent Signal shown. The warning signals themselves are preferably in executed first such that they are the highest prioritized target, namely attention steering. additionally can, z. B. for better understanding, system-specific, symbolic information for closer education presented become. This extra Information can be issued simultaneously with the actual warning signal or deliberately delayed, so the driver only starts to interpret them after the Attention was directed.

in the The invention will be described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. This results in further details, preferred embodiments and further developments of the invention.

in the Show individual

1 the schematic structure of a system status display according to the invention,

2 - 13 various variants and operating states of a display device according to the scheme 1 ,

14a an operating structure for selecting, activating and configuring individual ring sectors,

14b a top view of a rotary / push switch for selecting, activating and configuring individual ring sectors,

14c a top view of a keypad for selecting, activating and configuring individual ring sectors or sectors,

15 a screen display during the configuration of a sector of a display device according to the invention,

16 an output of the display device with activated spacing,

17 an output of the display device with activated heading control,

18 an output of the display device with activated parking machine,

19 an expanded by additional segments display device.

According to one preferred embodiment of The present invention comprises a display and operating concept for driver assistance systems the following components (a), (b), (c), and (d).

(a) Display the system status

It a permanent display of the system status is provided.

Of the System status includes power-on status and availability all driver assistance systems of a motor vehicle.

1a schematically shows a division of the driver assistance systems of the motor vehicle into classes. The classification is based on time criticality and monitoring direction of the respective driver assistance system.

1b schematically shows the structure of a corresponding display device for displaying the system status.

The classification according to 1a and the structure of the display device according to 1b are based on the metaphor of protective rings that surround the motor vehicle and which are each divided into ring sectors. The display of the system status is accordingly groupwise divided into display rings and their ring sectors.

In the present case, two indicator rings are provided. The display elements or ring sectors 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13, 15 together form an outer display ring. Likewise, the display elements or ring sectors 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16 together form a display ring, here the inner display ring (cf. 1b ).

The division of the driver assistance systems of the motor vehicle into classes looks according to 1a three class rings ago. The classes 101 . 201 . 301 . 401 . 501 . 601 . 701 . 801 together form a class ring (in 1a with "zone n + 3"). Likewise, the classes form 102 . 202 . 302 . 402 . 502 . 602 . 702 . 802 together a class ring (in 1a with "zone n + 2"). Likewise, the classes form 103 . 203 . 303 . 403 . 503 . 603 . 703 . 803 together a class ring (in 1a labeled "zone n + 1").

The Distribution on the class rings is based on the respective Time criticality. For example, a driver assistance system for issuing a early warning a far outside assigned to a lying class ring, a driver assistance system for The output of a last warning, on the other hand, is a more inward one Class ring assigned.

The arrow 902 in 1a denotes the class division into class rings according to the signal coding according to time criticality. The arrow 902 points in the direction of increasing time criticality. From the assignment to a class ring according to the time criticality is - details will follow later under point (b) - a signal intrusivity in the case of issuing a warning derived.

Furthermore, the classification of the driver assistance systems of the motor vehicle into classes according to 1a eight class sectors before. The classes 101 . 102 . 103 together form a class sector n (in 1a referred to as "sector n"), the classes 201 . 202 . 203 together form a class sector n + 1 and so on. The double arrow 901 identifies the classification into sectors. The division into the classes or the class sectors formed by several classes takes place essentially oriented to the spatial relationship of the task of the respective driver assistance system to the motor vehicle. For example, a lane departure warning of a "lateral" class (sideways in FIG 1a ). A collision warning will be given to a "forward" class (top in 1a ).

in the In the present example, the individual classes are the following driver assistance systems or the following functions of driver assistance systems assigned (It does not necessarily have to be with different functions to deal with separate systems; for the sake of simplicity, however, will be here without restriction treating the general public individual functions as individual driver assistance systems):

101

Auffahrinformation early, distance information, Speed Limit Information

102

Auffahrinformation means (collision warning), congestion warning, local hazard warning, red light warning, Stop sign warning, turn warning early

103

Auffahrinformation late (collision warning), False driving warning, left-turn assistant, corner warning late

104

vehicle information (Tire pressure, door closing condition, Straps, DSC, hood closing status, check-control)

201

crossing Info (not right of way), crossing info ("rechts vor rechts")

202

Lateral control assistant early

203

Lateral control assistant late

301

Guidance early

302

Guidance medium

303

Tracking late (Heading Control)

401

Lane Change Assistant early

402

Lane Change Assistant medium

403

Lane Change Assistant late

501

Lane Change Assistant early

502

503

601

Lane Change Assistant early

602

Lane Change Assistant medium

603

Lane Change Assistant late

701

Guidance early

702

Guidance medium

703

Tracking late (Heading Control)

801

crossing Info (not entitled to claim priority)

802

Intersection Assistant early

803

Intersection Assistant late

all sectors:

parking assistant and object warning

As the example shows, each class can be assigned several driver assistance systems. Likewise, a driver assistance system can also be assigned to several classes. For example, (see last line of the list above) are all classes off 1a in addition to the aforementioned driver assistance systems or functions, the driver assistance systems "parking assistant" and "object warning" assigned. This assignment is such that (for low speeds) the driver assistance system "parking assistant" is effectively assigned, while for high speeds the driver assistance system "object warning" is effectively assigned.

Through this assignment of the driver assistance systems "parking assistant" and "object warning" is also the classes 502 and 503 associated with at least one driver assistance system. In principle, however, not every class has to be assigned in order to use the described principle.

The display of the system status in the present case is as follows:
The class sectors of the class division 1a are the sectors of the display device off 1b assigned in geometrical analogy, ie ring sector n (classes 101 . 102 . 103 ) out 1a is assigned to the sector of the display device constituted by the display elements 1 and 2, ring sector n + 1 (classes 801 . 802 . 803 ) out 1a is associated with the sector of the display device formed by the display elements 15 and 16, etc.

An implementation of the three class rings n + 1, n + 2 and n + 3 according to 1a on the two indicator rings according to 1b is achieved by a summary of the class rings n + 1 and n + 2. These two class rings are associated with the inner display ring 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16. The class ring n + 3 is assigned to the outer display ring 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13, 15.

Each display element of the display device then displays the operational status of the driver assistance systems whose class belongs to a class sector associated with the sector of the display element and whose class belongs to a class ring associated with the display ring of the display element. For example, the display element 1 shows the operating state of the driver assistance systems of the class 101 on, the display element 2 shows the operating state of the driver assistance systems of the classes 102 and 103 on, the display element 3 shows the operating state of the driver assistance systems of the class 201 on, the display element 4 shows the operating state of the driver assistance systems of the classes 202 and 203 on, etc.

The class 104 In this case, it is not assigned to any class sector or class ring. However, it may also be understood as the innermost class ring. It includes driver assistance systems which relate to immediate vehicle information (eg tire pressure, door lock state, belts, DSC, hood closure status, check control). To display the operating states of the driver assistance systems of the class 104 may be provided in the interior of the innermost display ring 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, a vehicle information area. If necessary, this can itself be interpreted as the innermost display ring. It may contain the above-mentioned image of the motor vehicle. This vehicle information area is also implemented as display element 20 in the present example.

The figures 2 to 13 show different variants and operating states of a display device according to 1b , Here are the figures 2 to 7 primarily the display of the system status. The figures 8th to 13 refer primarily to the display of warning signals.

In the in 2 to 4 In the illustrated examples, all driver assistance systems are initially active and available. Accordingly, all display elements are illuminated. In the drawings, the lighting is represented by a hatched representation.

According to the variant in 2 No vehicle information area is provided. In the embodiment according to 3 the vehicle info area contains only a circle symbol. Alternatively, the vehicle information area may also contain a display text, which may also be variable in terms of the situation, for example providing more detailed explanations of a warning. In the embodiment according to 4 the vehicle information area contains an image of the motor vehicle. Information should be abstract and signal-based according to the approach followed. Depending on the requirements regarding comprehensibility and acceptance, the vehicle information area can be more abstract (cf. 3 ) or rather realistic (cf. 4 ) being represented.

ever depends on availability and status of the informational driver assistance systems can display elements fade in or fade out. In the present case, the invention for the sake of simplicity so implemented that a display element only then lit, when all of them concerning the display of the operating condition associated driver assistance systems are activated and available. An exception are the driver assistance systems "parking assistant" and "object warning" dar. It is sufficient if one of these two driver assistance systems is activated and available.

The system status can change by changing the switch-on states or the availability. On the one hand, the driver has the option of turning on or off driver assistance systems. For this purpose, a corresponding operating element can be provided. Switching on or off can be done individually or in groups. Thus, the driver can either switch individual driver assistance systems on or off or switch all driver assistance systems of a ring sector on or off or switch all driver assistance systems of a display ring on or off. Of course, the driver assistance systems can also be activated in a manner known per se without the driver's intervention For example, a reverse warning when inserting the reverse gear. For example, if the driver has one or more of the driver assistance systems of the class 301 turns off, accordingly, the display element 5 of the display device is turned off.

On the other hand, display elements can be automatically hidden while driving, if driver assistance systems are not available, resulting in non-availability, for example, from a failure (eg failed radar system) or from the conditions of the current driving situation (eg Radar system from status "track is detected" to status "track is not detected"). For example, if a driver assistance system of the class 301 is not available, the display element 5 goes out as well.

If the driver assistance systems associated with a display element are switched off or unavailable, no signals are forwarded from the relevant areas. In the example of 5 Early warning information regarding approach information and clearance is disabled or unavailable. In the example of 6 Early warning information regarding "early tracking" is not forwarded.

7 shows an example of a display in the case that the lanes can not be detected because, for example, the corresponding sensors are defective. As a result, all display elements to which lateral tracking tasks are assigned are unlighted.

optional can - for example by using different colors of lighting - one way for distinguishing the states "switched off" and "not available ".

Also the case that only a few of several associated with a display element Driver assistance systems are not available or switched off, can by suitable execution the ad can be identified, for example, by another Colour.

Of the described integrated approach to display system status positive for the transparency and uniqueness of the system status indicators out.

(b) Display warnings

Further is a temporary one Display parent Warning signals for the attention of the driver on the basis of a intensity coding intended. The warning signals are displayed by the same display device like the display of the system status.

The Display of the warning signals by the display device may optionally be completed by an enlightenment symbolism in the vehicle info area 20 or elsewhere.

The issuing of the warning signals is likewise based on the above-mentioned metaphor of protective rings which surround the motor vehicle and which are each subdivided into ring sectors. It continues to apply the classification according to 1a ,

The Allocation to the class sectors essentially takes place - as already mentioned under (a) - oriented at the spatial Relation of the task - and thus also a possibly issued warning - of the respective driver assistance system to the motor vehicle. The output of visual warnings takes place again in each case by display elements of the corresponding sector of the display device. The signal presentation the warning signals are thus coded metaphor-based.

The Allocation to the class rings takes place - as already mentioned under (a) - oriented at the respective time criticality. The assignment to a class ring according to the time criticality becomes a Signal intrusiveness derived in the case of issuing a warning. Thus, the signal presentation is the Warning signals intrusivity-based or intensity-based coded.

It There are three levels of time criticality. Driver assistance systems, whose warnings have little time criticality are the utmost Class ring assigned. Driver assistance systems whose warnings a mean time criticality own, are assigned to the middle class ring. Driver assistance systems, whose warnings have a high temporal criticality are the innermost ones Class ring assigned.

A warning with a low time criticality is output by the display element of the outer display ring 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13, 15 illuminates in a different color and possibly with a changed brightness in the corresponding sector of the display device. If so, for example, a warning of a driver assistance system of the class 101 is output, the display element 1 is illuminated in a different color and possibly brightness (see. 8th ). If a warning from a driver assistance system of the class 201 is output, the display element 3 is illuminated in a different color and possibly brightness, etc.

The color and possibly brightness changed as a result of the warning is in 8th by hatching in presented in different directions. Also in the other figures 9 to 13 are different hatching for different colors or brightnesses.

A additional Output of haptic or audible signals is for output warnings with low time criticality are not provided.

These Type of warning possesses - compared with later explained in more detail Warning types - one more relatively low Intensity. From the driver she is not as intrusive, d. H. not as intrusive, felt.

Moderate time criticality warnings are issued by illuminating the display elements of both display rings in a different color in the corresponding sector of the display device. If so, for example, a warning of a driver assistance system of the class 102 is output, the display elements 1 and 2 are illuminated in a different color (see. 9 ).

If a warning from a driver assistance system of the class 202 is output, the display elements 3 and 4 are illuminated in a different color, etc.

Additional output of haptic or audible signals is also not provided for issuing mid-term criticality warnings. Nevertheless, this type of warning - compared to the type of warning with low Zeitkritikalität - has an increased intensity. The driver therefore perceives it as more intrusive, ie more intrusive. The warning signal according to 9 is of higher intrusiveness than the warning signal according to 8th and accordingly indicates a higher risk, for example a collision warning or a curve warning.

Warnings with high time criticality are output by dynamically activating the display elements of both display rings in the corresponding sector of the display device. For example, the display elements may blink or generate a dynamic wave pattern to be moved to the center of the display device. If so, for example, a warning of a driver assistance system of the class 103 is output, the display elements 1 and 2 flash (see. 10 , while the crossbars on the display elements 1 and 2 symbolize a flashing of these display elements). If a warning from a driver assistance system of the class 203 is output, the display elements 3 and 4 flash.

moreover contain temporally highly critical warnings an acoustic and / or haptic component (eg vibration of the steering wheel and / or accelerator pedal and / or additional Beep). The dynamic visual warning and any added acoustic and / or haptic component are high signals from the driver intensity perceived. From the driver the warning is therefore very intrusive, d. H. intrusive, felt. The dynamic visual warning signal is perceived by the driver particularly intensively, since movement of the visual human sensory channel in the peripheral visual field very much be well perceived. At the same time, an additional acoustic or haptic component to ensure the desired intrusiveness or reinforce.

The figures 8th to 13 show different warning states of the display device:
The warning signals are superordinate in so far as similar warning signals can be initiated by different driver assistance systems. The warning signal according to 8th may, for example, be related to distance ("You are within the 1.8xv second distance of the vehicle ahead of you.") or exceeding a tempo limit ("You drive 5 km / h faster than the current speed limit . ").

Also in the vehicle information area 20 warnings can be issued. This one can, like 11 shows different segments. The signal in 11 means for example: "The driver's belt is not created." Or: "The tire pressure at the front left is less than <...>bar." For some warnings, additional explanatory symbols may be useful due to the requirements for comprehensibility and acceptance. 12 ). For example, it can be clarified that the current warning relates to a distance. Otherwise, the warning corresponds to 12 those of 8th ,

It may also be useful for other purposes to expand the display device by display segments that are visible or visually highlighted only in the activated state of certain driver assistance systems. For example, it may be helpful for the distance display of a "parking assistant" to provide a distance indication of the in-field by means of additional segments outside the outermost display ring of the display device 19 To allow illustrated type.

With the presentation of higher-level, nonspecific signals, in addition to the advantages already mentioned, an excessive system dependency of the driver is avoided. The driver should always feel challenged to the relationship between the displayed driver assistance sys tem signals and the respective analog parameters.

(c) activation and configuration

Furthermore, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, means for activating and configuring the driver assistance systems of the motor vehicle are provided, which are likewise oriented on the above-mentioned metaphor of protective rings and the corresponding classification of the driver assistance systems according to FIG 1a ,

The driver assistance systems, which are assigned to different classes or class rings, are in the present example initially switched on or off in groups. The association between the driver assistance systems and the display elements of the display device according to 1b be the same assignment with respect to the on / off as with the display of the system status. An active shutdown of a particular display element thus corresponds to the shutdown of all driver assistance systems whose operating state is indicated by this display element. For example, a shutdown of the display element 3 corresponds to a shutdown of all driver assistance systems of the class 201 ,

According to a first embodiment variant, a rotary / pressure switch is provided for switching on / off. 14b schematically shows a plan view of the rotary / pressure switch. When turning it, a cursor moves (cf. 14a ) about the individual ring sectors of a currently selected display ring. The cursor is operated in a conventional manner. For example, when the cursor is initially located on the outer display ring, the cursor can be moved by turning the rotary / push switch from the display element 1 to the display element 3 and further to the display element 5 and further to the display element 7 and so on. By moving the rotary / push switch, the cursor is also movable between the display rings back and forth, for example (see. 14a ) by shifting "down" from the display element 1 to the display element 2 or by shifting "to the right" from the display element 2 to the display element 3. The by the two arrows in 14a Sequence shown results by moving first down and then to the right. Pressing the rotary / push switch activates or deactivates the group of driver assistance systems associated with the ring sector highlighted by the cursor.

It can also be an extra Be provided operating function through which a complete display ring and thus all driver assistance systems of a display ring (exactly taken: their operating state by a display element this Indicator ring) are switchable.

As well can be provided an operating function by the multiple display elements simultaneously switchable (eg tracking information on the left and right).

Alternatively, the display elements may also be directly switchable, if one according to the structure 1b built-keypad is provided for dialing.

Alternatively, for switching individual sectors, a push-button circuit according to 14c be used as a control element. In this case, the sector keys of the mere selection of a sector and the central center button of the actual circuit, ie activation or deactivation serve.

If any of the sector keys off 14c is divided into individual ring sector keys, the above results according to the structure 1b constructed keypad.

One possibly configuring the individual sectors or ring sectors may under Providence and use of one or more additional Configuration keys take place. So, after all, even a single one Driver assistance system from a group of several driver assistance systems, which are assigned to a sector or display element or disabled.

If a screen is used as the display device, which is suitable for this purpose, during the configuration, a screen display as shown in FIG 15 being represented. For example, text 1 may read "Guidance early off." Text 2 will then be "Guidance medium", text 3 will be "Guidance late." The "Object detection" option could also be included in the display, albeit this driver assistance system can be switched on / off.

(d) Other driver assistance system information displays

Further is according to one preferred embodiment the present invention, the integration of other driver assistance system information displays intended.

The structure of the display according to the display metaphor described above offers the possibility to also include other types of information such as check control messages or status displays for regulatory driver assistance systems. Examples are shown in 16 . 17 and 18 ,

In the 16 . 17 and 18 black bars (in the case of the real display device this can again correspond to a separate display color or a particularly bright illuminated display) show the activation state of these regulating driver assistance systems due to the special functional quality of the regulating driver assistance systems (automating regulatory systems, informing driver assistance systems only inform visually) Displays differentiated for the activation state of other driver assistance systems.

16 shows an indication when the distance is activated.

17 shows an indication when Heading Control is activated.

18 shows an indication when the parking machine is activated.

All in all considered guaranteed the skill / signal basedness of the above (a), (b), (c) and (d) described ad concept a recording and Processing the driver assistance system information even in situations in which the driver increased Stress or workload is exposed and thus generates a driver more sustainable situational awareness and better predictability. This beats in a more intuitive and anticipatory driving style and an improved vehicle control. Recording and processing from abstract information require a very low cognitive Resources grant. Also the required attention purely visual Resources are decreasing, because visual signal-based information is partly about that peripheral field of view can be detected. The improved predictability the driving situation allows a better scheduling of secondary tasks and leads to it eventually a distracting one Driving behavior.

It will be an increase of driving comfort achieved by the driver through an early, yet little intrusive alert regarding a changing complexity of the driving situation is able to avoid situations from the outset, the one edition more critical, more insistent and thus the comfort debilitating Warnings would be required.

One Integrated, according to the invention signal-based and focused driver assistance system display panel allows one easier, faster assessment the situational degree of danger at increased stress and workload of the Driver. This is required because of increased stress and workload limitations in terms of variability Eye movements, peripheral field of vision and cognitive performance can cause.

One integrated driver assistance system display panel easy scalability and easier integration to include in the future Driver assistance system displays. A metaphor-based advertising concept also forms a framework in which, in addition to system advertisements regarding informative Driver assistance systems also accommodated alternative information displays can be for example, the system status of regulating driver assistance systems (such as distance, heading control or parking), check-control messages, Etc.

The Improved metaphor-based driver assistance system display panel the transparency and comprehensibility, and brings a more intuitive information acquisition and processing and thus shorter Reaction times.

Claims (14)

Display device for a motor vehicle, characterized in that the display device comprises a plurality of display elements, that an operating state of at least one driver assistance system of a plurality of driver assistance systems of the motor vehicle is independently represented by each display element and that the display elements together at least a first substantially circular display ring and a second substantially circular indicator ring enclosing the first indicator ring. Display device according to Claim 1, characterized that at least one driver assistance system for monitoring one in a particular Direction regarding of the motor vehicle arranged part of the vehicle environment in terms of Representation of at least one operating state of a display element is assigned, which in the corresponding direction with respect to Center of the first display ring is arranged. Display device according to claim 2, characterized in that that a warning of the driver assistance system for monitoring one arranged in a certain direction with respect to the motor vehicle Part of the vehicle environment can be output by the same display element is. Display device according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that by at least one display element operating conditions ver various driver assistance systems can be displayed. Display device according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that at least one indicator ring by a single substantially annular display element is formed is. Display device according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that at least one indicator ring of several Display elements is composed, each having a ring sector of the display ring. Display device according to Claim 6, characterized that the first and the second display ring each sector by sector are composed of several display elements and the limiting angle at least a first ring sector of the first display ring with the Limiting angles of at least one second ring sector of the second Displayings match, that the ring sectors together a sector of the display device form. Display device according to claim 7, characterized in that in that the display device also has at least one output for issuing warnings a portion of the driver assistance systems is usable, with optical Warnings of a driver assistance system, its operating state by a display element belonging to a specific sector can be displayed is, exclusively be generated by display elements of this sector. Display device according to claim 8, characterized in that that the driver assistance systems with respect to the time criticality distributable Warnings are classified and that warnings are different criticality be generated in different ways. Display device according to claim 9, characterized in that warnings of equal time criticality relating to driver assistance systems their operating conditions can be displayed by display elements of different sectors, generated in each sector in a corresponding manner become. Display device according to claim 9 or 10, characterized characterized in that higher time criticality warnings have higher intrusiveness, especially use a larger display area. Display device according to one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that by each display element a Switch-on state of at least one driver assistance system can be independently displayed is. Display device according to one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that by each display element a availability status at least one driver assistance system can be displayed independently. Display device according to one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that the display device an operating device associated with a plurality of controls, the together at least a first substantially circular operating ring and form a second substantially circular operating ring, wherein the second control ring encloses the first control ring.