JP2005069800A - Display device for vehicle - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a display device for a vehicle which realizes new route guidance display understandable more easily without hindering driving by a driver. <P>SOLUTION: This display device for the vehicle equipped with a GPS controller 17 for detecting the position of own vehicle 9 and a navigation system 18 for guiding own vehicle 9 to the destination is constituted so as to have a liquid crystal panel 11, a display controller 12 and an image memory 19 as a virtual object display means for displaying a virtual object not existing actually as a virtual image through a front glass 9b in the superimposed state with a landscape in front of own vehicle 9, and so that the virtual object is displayed on the position advanced as long as a prescribed distance in the traveling direction acquired from the navigation system 18 based on the own vehicle position acquired from the GPS controller 17. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2005,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to a display device for a vehicle including own vehicle position detecting means for detecting the position of the own vehicle and route guidance means for guiding the own vehicle to a destination. The present invention relates to a vehicular display device that transmits route guidance information to a driver using display means such as HUD.

  In general, this type of vehicle display device includes own vehicle position detecting means for detecting the position of the own vehicle, and route guidance means for guiding the own vehicle to a destination. Here, for example, a GPS system or the like is used as the vehicle position detection means, and a navigation system or the like is used as the route guidance means.

  Conventionally, in such a vehicle display device, when performing route guidance in a vehicle, the driver confirms the route to the destination by using a display such as a liquid crystal display, and the remaining distance to the position where the driver makes a right or left turn. While listening to the voice guidance, the direction of travel was decided.

  However, in fact, even when listening to voice guidance, there are individual differences in the driver's sense of distance, and sometimes the road is mistaken. In addition, when driving while checking a complex-shaped road on the map shown on the display, there was a case where a mistake was made.

On the other hand, a head-up display that displays travel guidance information on the windshield of the host vehicle has been proposed to convey the route guidance information to the driver in an easy-to-understand manner (for example, see Patent Document 1). .
JP 2001-108476 A

  However, in the vehicular display device described in Patent Document 1 above, information far from the real world such as arrows and characters is displayed on the map displayed on the windshield by the head-up display. The driver may feel uncomfortable and hinder driving.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a vehicular display device that enables a new easy-to-understand route guidance display without hindering driving of a driver.

  In order to achieve the above object, according to the first aspect of the present invention, the vehicle position detection means (17) for detecting the position of the vehicle (9) and the route guidance means for guiding the vehicle (9) to the destination. (18), a virtual object that is displayed as a virtual image by superimposing a virtual object (1) that does not actually exist on the scenery in front of the host vehicle (9) through the windshield (9b) It has display means (11, 12, 19), and it is predetermined in the traveling direction obtained from the route guidance means (18) with reference to the position of the own vehicle (9) obtained by the own vehicle position detection means (17). The virtual object (1) is displayed at a position advanced by the distance by the virtual object display means (11, 12, 19).

  According to this, the virtual object (1) displayed at the front position of the host vehicle (9) in the actual scenery seen from the driver (8) through the windshield (9b), not on the map as in the past. Since it is a landmark to the destination, the driver (8) can be made as uncomfortable as possible.

  Therefore, according to the present invention, it is possible to provide a vehicular display device that enables a new easy-to-understand route guidance display without hindering the driving of the driver (8).

  According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a vehicle comprising own vehicle position detecting means (17) for detecting the position of the own vehicle (9) and route guidance means (18) for guiding the own vehicle (9) to a destination. In the display device, virtual object display means (11, 12,) for displaying a virtual object (1) that does not actually exist as a virtual image superimposed on the scenery in front of the host vehicle (9) through the windshield (9b). 19), the virtual object (1) moves on the road at a higher speed than the own vehicle (9) from the vicinity of the position of the own vehicle (9) toward the traveling direction obtained from the route guidance means (18). The state is displayed by virtual object display means (11, 12, 19).

  According to this, the virtual object (1) displayed at the front position of the host vehicle (9) in the actual scenery seen from the driver (8) through the windshield (9b), not on the map as in the past. Since it is a landmark to the destination, the driver (8) can be made as uncomfortable as possible.

  Further, since the virtual object (1) is displayed on the road at high speed from the vicinity of the position of the own vehicle (9) toward the traveling direction (that is, toward the destination), the driver (8) It is possible to know the route to the destination at an earlier stage than the driving.

  Therefore, according to the present invention, it is possible to provide a vehicular display device that enables a new easy-to-understand route guidance display without hindering the driving of the driver (8).

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the vehicle display device according to the first or second aspect, the virtual object (1) displayed as a virtual image is a moving object.

  According to this, since the virtual object (1) displayed as a virtual image is a moving object, it is possible to make the driver (8) feel less uncomfortable.

  According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the vehicular display device according to the third aspect, the moving object is an automobile or a motorcycle.

  Thus, if the moving object is an automobile or a motorcycle, it becomes closer to the real world, which is preferable.

  According to a fifth aspect of the invention, in the vehicular display device according to the first to fourth aspects, the virtual object display means (11, 12, 19) makes the virtual object (1) turn right and left at the intersection. In this case, a display showing a direction of turning in advance at the intersection is performed.

  In this way, when the virtual object (1) turns right and left at the intersection, it is preferable that the direction of turning in advance is displayed at the intersection because a more easily understandable route guidance display is possible.

  According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, in the vehicular display device according to the first to fifth aspects of the present invention, the width of the displayed virtual object (1) is adjusted at the position where the virtual object (1) is displayed. The width of the vehicle (9) is equal to or larger than the width of the host vehicle (9) when the vehicle (9) is recognized.

  Thus, the width of the virtual object (1) is equal to or larger than the width of the own vehicle (9) when the own vehicle (9) is recognized at the position where the virtual object (1) is displayed. This width is preferable because it makes it easier for the driver (8) to grasp the vehicle feeling when the host vehicle (9) actually passes the position where the virtual object (1) is displayed.

  According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, in the vehicle display device according to any of the first to sixth aspects, the virtual object (1) is moved farther away from the position or braking distance than the braking distance of the host vehicle (9). It is characterized by being displayed at a distant position.

  As a display position of the virtual object (1), a position far from the braking distance of the host vehicle (9) or a position farther than the braking distance can be used as a guide.

  For an obstacle located between the display position of the virtual object (1) and the own vehicle (9), that is, an obstacle located closer to the own vehicle (9) than the display position of the virtual object (1), Although there are obstacles that are visible to the driver (8) but are ahead of the display position of the virtual object (1), the virtual object (1) may overlap the obstacle and may not be visible to the driver (8).

  If the display position of the virtual object (1) is closer to the host vehicle (9) than the braking distance of the host vehicle (9), an obstacle that cannot be seen by the driver (8) is displayed on the host vehicle (9). If the driver (8) detects the obstacle and applies the brake by being positioned closer than the braking distance, there may be a case where it is not in time.

  However, according to the present invention, the obstacle that cannot be seen by the driver (8) exists at a position farther than the braking distance of the host vehicle (9) or at a position farther than the braking distance. If 8) detects the obstacle and applies the brake, it will be in time.

  According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, in the vehicle display device according to the first to seventh aspects, a plurality of virtual objects (1) are displayed.

  By displaying a plurality of virtual objects (1), it is possible to sequentially arrange the virtual objects (1) along the traveling direction, and it is possible to display more easily understandable route guidance, which is preferable.

  According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, in the vehicle display device according to the first to eighth aspects, the virtual object display means (11, 12, 19) needs to select a traveling direction of the host vehicle (9). It is characterized in that a display indicating prohibition of entry is displayed on a road that is not subject to route guidance at a difficult place.

  According to this, the driver (8) can recognize the direction in which the virtual object (1) should travel, and can also recognize the direction in which the virtual object (1) should not travel.

  According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, in the vehicle display device according to the ninth aspect, the place where the traveling direction of the host vehicle (9) needs to be selected is an intersection or a branch road.

  As described above, the place where the traveling direction of the host vehicle (9) needs to be selected is often an intersection or a branch road.

  According to an eleventh aspect of the present invention, in the vehicular display device according to the first to tenth aspects, the virtual object display means (11, 12, 19) is configured such that the actual preceding vehicle brakes the own vehicle (9). When the vehicle is located at a position within the distance, it is characterized by displaying an actual preceding vehicle surrounded by a frame.

  According to this, the distinction between the virtual object (1) displayed as a virtual image through the windshield (9b) and the preceding vehicle that actually looks at the scenery becomes clear, which is preferable.

  According to a twelfth aspect of the present invention, in the vehicular display device according to the eleventh aspect, the virtual object display means (11, 12, 19) is a position where the actual preceding vehicle is within the braking distance of the host vehicle (9). If the virtual object (1) exists, the virtual object (1) is not displayed.

  Further, as in the invention of claim 11, when there is an actual preceding vehicle, if the virtual object (1) is not displayed, an easy-to-understand route guidance display can be performed with the actual preceding vehicle as the guided vehicle. it can.

  According to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, in the vehicular display device according to the first to twelfth aspects of the present invention, a map display means (23) for displaying a route guidance map on a display, and a map display means (23) And a designated position means (24) for detecting a position on the map designated by the occupant on the display. When the virtual object (1) is the first virtual object, the designated position means ( 24) The virtual object display means (21, 22, 29) displays the second virtual object (2) through the windshield (9b) at a position corresponding to the position on the map detected by 24). Features.

  According to this, the driver (8) can recognize the direction to be advanced by the first virtual object (1), and can further recognize the second virtual object (2) as a mark, so that it is possible to display route guidance more easily. It is preferable.

  According to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention, in the vehicle display device according to the first to twelfth aspects of the present invention, the vehicle display device includes voice guidance means (25) for performing voice guidance using a landmark, and a virtual object ( When 1) is the first virtual object, the windshield (9b) is displayed by the virtual object display means (21, 22, 29) at the position of the landmark guided by voice by the voice guidance means (25) in the landscape. ) To display the second virtual object (2).

  In this case as well, the driver (8) can recognize the direction to be advanced by the first virtual object (1), and can also recognize the second virtual object (2) as a landmark, so that it is possible to display route guidance more easily. It is preferable.

  In the invention described in claim 15, a vehicle comprising own vehicle position detecting means (27) for detecting the position of the own vehicle (9) and route guidance means (28) for guiding the own vehicle (9) to the destination. Virtual object display means (21, 22, virtual object display means (21, 22) for displaying a virtual object (2) that does not actually exist as a virtual image superimposed on the scenery in front of the host vehicle (9) through the windshield (9b) 29), map display means (23) for displaying a route guidance map on the display, and indicated position means (24) for detecting the position on the map indicated by the passenger on the display in the map display means (23). ) And the virtual object display means (21, 22, 29) is used to place the virtual object (2) at a position corresponding to the position on the map detected by the indicated position means (24) in the landscape. To display And butterflies.

  According to this, the virtual object (2) displayed at the position instructed by the occupant is a landmark in the actual scenery seen from the driver (8) through the windshield (9b), not on the map as in the past. Therefore, the uncomfortable feeling of the driver (8) can be reduced as much as possible.

  Therefore, according to the present invention, it is possible to provide a vehicular display device that enables a new easy-to-understand route guidance display without hindering the driving of the driver (8).

  In a sixteenth aspect of the present invention, a vehicle including own vehicle position detecting means (27) for detecting the position of the own vehicle (9) and route guidance means (28) for guiding the own vehicle (9) to a destination. Virtual object display means (21, 22, virtual object display means (21, 22) for displaying a virtual object (2) that does not actually exist as a virtual image superimposed on the scenery in front of the host vehicle (9) through the windshield (9b) 29) and voice guidance means (25) for guiding by voice using landmarks, and the virtual object is located at the position of the landmark guided by voice by the voice guidance means (25) in the landscape. The virtual object (2) is displayed by the display means (21, 22, 29).

  According to the present invention, a virtual object (not displayed on a map as in the prior art) displayed in the position of a landmark guided by voice in an actual landscape viewed from the driver (8) through the windshield (9b) ( Since 2) serves as a mark, the driver (8) can be as uncomfortable as possible.

  Therefore, according to the present invention, it is possible to provide a vehicular display device that enables a new easy-to-understand route guidance display without hindering the driving of the driver (8).

  In a seventeenth aspect of the present invention, a vehicle including own vehicle position detecting means (37) for detecting the position of the own vehicle (9) and route guidance means (38) for guiding the own vehicle (9) to a destination. Virtual object display means (31, 32, 32) for displaying a virtual object (3), which does not actually exist, as a virtual image superimposed on the scenery in front of the host vehicle (9) through the windshield (9b). 39), and the virtual object (3) is displayed by the virtual object display means (31, 32, 39) on the sidewalk or shoulder at the intersection or branch point where the own vehicle (9) will turn right and left. Features.

  According to the present invention, a virtual object (3 displayed on a sidewalk or a shoulder at an intersection or a branch point in an actual landscape viewed from a driver (8) through a windshield (9b), not on a map as in the past. ) Is a landmark, so that the driver (8) can be as uncomfortable as possible.

  Therefore, according to the present invention, it is possible to provide a vehicular display device that enables a new easy-to-understand route guidance display without hindering the driving of the driver (8).

  In the invention described in claim 18, a vehicle comprising own vehicle position detecting means (37) for detecting the position of the own vehicle (9) and route guidance means (38) for guiding the own vehicle (9) to a destination. Virtual object display means (31, 32, 32) for displaying a virtual object (3), which does not actually exist, as a virtual image superimposed on the scenery in front of the host vehicle (9) through the windshield (9b). 39), and a virtual object display means (31, 32, 39) displays a virtual object (3) indicating that it is a destination on a sidewalk or a shoulder near the destination. .

  According to the present invention, the virtual object (3) displayed on the sidewalk or the shoulder near the destination in the actual scenery seen from the driver (8) through the windshield (9b), not on the map as in the past. Since the mark is a mark, it is possible to minimize the uncomfortable feeling of the driver (8).

  Therefore, according to the present invention, it is possible to provide a vehicular display device that enables a new easy-to-understand route guidance display without hindering the driving of the driver (8).

  According to a nineteenth aspect of the present invention, in the vehicular display device according to the seventeenth or eighteenth aspect, the virtual object (3) is a human-shaped display.

  In this way, if the virtual object (3) is displayed in the form of a person, the driver (8) can recognize as if the person is guiding, and the discomfort can be further reduced. .

  According to a twentieth aspect of the present invention, in the vehicular display device according to the first to nineteenth aspects of the present invention, the virtual object (1,3, ) The design is changed.

  Thus, by changing the design of the displayed virtual object (1, 3) according to the remaining distance to the destination, the driver (8) remains due to the difference in the design of the virtual object (1, 3). Since the distance can be known, it is possible to display route guidance more easily, which is preferable.

  Here, as in the invention described in claim 21, the design of the virtual object (1, 3) can be the shape or color of the virtual object (1, 3).

  In addition, the code | symbol in the bracket | parenthesis of each said means shows the correspondence with the specific means as described in embodiment mentioned later.

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

(First embodiment)
FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a display state of the virtual object 1 through the windshield 9b in the vehicle display device 10 according to the first embodiment of the present invention, and the host vehicle through the windshield 9b from the driver seat side. It is a figure when the front of 9 is seen.

  As shown in FIG. 1, in the present embodiment, the automobile 1 as a virtual object is displayed at a position advanced a predetermined distance in the traveling direction with reference to the position of the host vehicle 9. Here, the virtual object is an object that does not actually exist (that is, does not exist in the real world). Hereinafter, the automobile 1 as the virtual object is referred to as a virtual guide car 1.

  FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of the vehicle display device 10 according to the present embodiment. In FIG. 1, the front half of the host vehicle 9 is schematically shown, and a front wheel 9a, a windshield 9b, and a handle 9c are shown together with a driver (driver) 8.

  The vehicular display device 10 of the present embodiment is roughly divided into a liquid crystal panel 11, a display controller 12, a switch 13, a camera 14, a vehicle analysis device 15, a vehicle speed sensor 16, a GPS controller 17, a navigation system 18, and an image memory 19. Is configured.

  The liquid crystal panel 11 is for projecting a virtual image on the driver 8 through the windshield 9b, and as the liquid crystal panel 11, a generally known liquid crystal panel can be adopted. Further, the display controller 12 performs processing for display displayed on the liquid crystal panel 8.

  In addition, the liquid crystal panel 11 is arranged on the upper part of the instrument panel of the host vehicle 9 and displays an image output from the display controller 12. The display is reflected by the windshield 9b and the driver 8 sees it as a virtual image.

  Here, in the present embodiment, the virtual guide vehicle 1 as the virtual object is displayed as a virtual image, but the display image output by the display controller 12 is automatically displayed for the position at which the virtual guide vehicle 1 is displayed. It is displayed (superimposed and displayed) at a position superimposed on the actual scenery in front of the vehicle 9.

  As for the arrangement of the liquid crystal panel 11, the image displayed on the liquid crystal panel 11 is displayed so that the image of the liquid crystal panel 11 is projected forward from the front of the own vehicle 9 when the front of the own vehicle 9 is viewed from the viewpoint of the driver 8. The relationship between the vertical (horizontal) coordinates and the distance (horizontal position) in the landscape where the image is displayed is arranged based on parameters (for example, formulas or tables) set in advance.

  More specifically, this is as follows. For example, in the virtual image display range formed on the windshield 9b, the uppermost position in the vertical coordinate is overlapped with a point 200 m ahead in the scenery in front of the vehicle, and the lowermost position in the vertical coordinate is the vehicle. Overlap the point 20m ahead in the landscape ahead.

  Similarly, in the display range of the virtual image formed on the windshield 9b, the horizontal coordinate is similarly set with the horizontal position in the landscape, and the liquid crystal panel 11 is arranged so as to satisfy these relationships. It is.

  The switch 13 provided in the peripheral part of the handle 9c is a switch operated by the driver 8. The driver 8 can set ON / OFF of the display displayed on the liquid crystal panel 11 from the display controller 12 by operating the switch 13.

  The camera 14 provided around the ceiling in the passenger compartment is a camera that photographs the front of the host vehicle 9 (front of the vehicle). As such a camera 14, for example, a CCD (charge coupled device) can be employed.

  The vehicle analyzer 15 analyzes the presence or absence of a preceding vehicle by performing image processing on the image captured by the camera 14.

  In this vehicle analysis device 15, the image of the camera 14 is analyzed by a pattern matching method, and the lateral distance between the own vehicle 9 and the preceding vehicle and the inter-vehicle distance between the own vehicle 9 and the preceding vehicle are calculated. And it outputs to the display controller 12 as preceding vehicle position data.

  Here, the lateral distance between the host vehicle 9 and the preceding vehicle is the position when the center axis in the traveling direction of the preceding vehicle is shifted from the center axis in the traveling direction of the host vehicle 9. It is the distance in the horizontal direction between both central axes. The inter-vehicle distance is a normal distance and is the distance between the host vehicle 9 and the preceding vehicle in the traveling direction.

  The vehicle speed sensor 16 measures the speed of the host vehicle 9 and outputs the measured vehicle speed to the display controller 12 as vehicle speed data. The display controller 12 calculates the braking distance of the host vehicle 9 based on the vehicle speed data. The braking distance is the distance from which a person can determine the situation ahead and stop by a normal brake operation when the host vehicle 9 is traveling at a certain vehicle speed.

  A GPS (global positioning system) controller 17 receives a GPS signal from an artificial satellite or the like, calculates the position of the host vehicle 9 (that is, the host vehicle position) based on the GPS signal, and calculates the calculated host vehicle. The position is output to the display controller 12 as own vehicle position data.

  The navigation system 18 outputs route guidance data to the destination of the host vehicle 9 to the display controller 12. The image memory 19 stores data of display objects such as images displayed on the liquid crystal panel 11, that is, display data.

  The display controller 12, the vehicle analysis device 15, the GPS controller 17, the navigation system 18, and the image memory 19 are constituted by a microcomputer or the like.

  Then, the display controller 12 calculates how the host vehicle 9 will proceed next from the host vehicle position data input from the GPS controller 17 and the route guidance data input from the navigation system 18. An image of the virtual guide vehicle 1 is read from the image memory 19 and output to the liquid crystal panel 11.

  Thus, the image of the virtual guide vehicle 1 displayed from the liquid crystal panel 11 is reflected by the windshield 9b, and is displayed as a virtual image superimposed on the scenery in front of the host vehicle 9 via the windshield 9b.

  At this time, the driver 8 can recognize the virtual guide vehicle 1 as a virtual image at a position advanced by a predetermined distance in the traveling direction with reference to the position of the host vehicle 9. In the present embodiment, for example, the position advanced by a predetermined distance in the traveling direction with reference to the position of the host vehicle 9 is set to a position far from the braking distance of the host vehicle 9.

  In this embodiment, the virtual object display means 11, 12, and 19 are configured by the liquid crystal panel 11, the display controller 12, and the image memory 19, and the host vehicle position detection means is configured by the GPS controller 17. The navigation system 18 constitutes route guidance means.

  That is, according to the present embodiment, in the vehicle display device 10 that includes the host vehicle position detection unit 17 that detects the position of the host vehicle 9 and the route guide unit 18 that guides the host vehicle 9 to the destination. Has virtual object display means 11, 12, and 19 for displaying a virtual object 1 that does not exist as a virtual image superimposed on the scenery in front of the host vehicle 9 through the windshield 9 b, and is obtained by the host vehicle position detection unit 17. For the vehicle, the virtual object display means 11, 12, 19 displays the virtual object 1 at a position advanced by a predetermined distance in the traveling direction obtained from the route guidance means 18 on the basis of the position of the own vehicle 9. A display device is provided.

  Next, with reference to FIG. 3, the operation of the vehicle display device 10 of the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a flowchart of the process of displaying the virtual object of the vehicle display device 10.

  For example, the vehicle display device 10 starts to operate when the ignition switch of the host vehicle 9 is in an ON state, and as shown in FIG. 3, the vehicle display device 10 starts operating. The virtual object display process is started.

  First, in step 100 (S100), various data are read in the vehicle display device 10. The display controller 12 reads the vehicle speed data from the vehicle speed sensor 16, and reads the route guidance data, the remaining distance to the destination, the intersection, and the presence / absence of a branch from the navigation system 18.

  In step 100, the GPS controller 17 reads a GPS signal, and the vehicle analyzer 15 reads image data ahead of the vehicle from the camera 14.

  In the subsequent step 101 (S101), the display controller 12 calculates the braking distance of the host vehicle 9 based on the input vehicle speed data.

  In the subsequent step 102 (S102), the GPS controller 17 calculates the position of the host vehicle based on the input GPS signal and outputs it to the display controller 12.

  In the subsequent step 103 (S103), the display controller 12 calculates the traveling direction of the host vehicle 9 based on the route guidance data received from the navigation system 18.

  Here, for example, when the navigation system 18 indicates route guidance for turning right at an intersection 50 meters ahead from the current position of the host vehicle 9, the vehicle travels forward until 50 meters and rightward from 50 meters ahead. Calculate as follows.

  In subsequent step 104 (S104), the display controller 12 detects the on / off state of the switch 13 operated by the driver 8. If the switch 13 is off (OFF), this flow returns to the start in order to turn off the display of the virtual guide vehicle 1, that is, to hide the virtual guide vehicle 1.

  In addition, when the switch 13 is in an ON state, the subsequent flow is continued to display the virtual guide vehicle 1.

  In step 105 (S105), the display controller 12 determines the traveling direction of the host vehicle 9 calculated in step 103.

  Here, for example, by using the current host vehicle position calculated in step 102 and the braking distance of the host vehicle 9 calculated in step 101, braking of the host vehicle 9 from the host vehicle position is performed. For the distance, the traveling direction of the host vehicle 9 at the previous position (that is, also corresponding to the position of the virtual guide vehicle 1) is determined.

  In the subsequent step 106 (S106), the vehicle analyzer 15 determines whether or not there is a real preceding vehicle (that is, an actual preceding vehicle) ahead of the host vehicle 9. Here, it is determined whether or not an actual preceding vehicle exists at a position within the braking distance of the host vehicle 9.

  The vehicle analysis device 15 analyzes the image from the camera 14 by a pattern matching method. If there is an actual preceding vehicle, the lateral distance between the own vehicle 9 and the actual preceding vehicle and the inter-vehicle distance between the own vehicle 9 and the preceding vehicle are calculated, and the display controller 12 Output as preceding vehicle position data.

  If there is no actual preceding vehicle, the process proceeds to step 107 (S107), and if there is an actual preceding vehicle, the process proceeds to step 109 (S109).

  In step 107, the display controller 12 reads an image of the virtual guide vehicle 1 from the image memory 19. The virtual guide vehicle 1 used at this time is the same vehicle type as the host vehicle 9. That is, the width of the displayed virtual guide vehicle 1 is the same as the width of the host vehicle 9 when the driver 8 recognizes the host vehicle 9 when the virtual guide vehicle 1 is present at the position where the virtual guide vehicle 1 is displayed.

  If it does so, it will become easy for a driver to grasp the vehicle feeling when the own vehicle 9 actually passes the position where the virtual guide vehicle 1 is displayed. Specifically, when passing through a narrow place, the virtual guide vehicle 1 plays a major role.

  Furthermore, in the reading of the image of the virtual guide vehicle 1, if it is determined in step 105 that the traveling direction is straight, the image of the virtual guide vehicle 1 for straight travel is read and determined to be a right (left) turn. In this case, an image of the virtual guide vehicle 1 for turning right (left) is read out.

  In the subsequent step 108 (S108), the display controller 12 displays on the liquid crystal panel 11 a prohibition of entry to a route that is not subject to route guidance at a place where the traveling direction of the host vehicle 9 needs to be selected.

  Specifically, when the virtual guide vehicle 1 on the data is approaching an intersection or a branch point, the route guidance data of the navigation system 18 is used to guide the route that is connected to the intersection or the branch point. Calculate the location of all excluded roads.

  Here, the position of the road is, for example, a road direction or a road width. In step 108, for example, as shown in FIG. 1, the road sign 1a prohibiting entry is displayed as a virtual image on a road that is not subject to route guidance.

  In the subsequent step 110 (S110), the display controller 12 converts the display size and color of the virtual guide vehicle 1 read out in the above step 107 according to the display distance and the remaining distance to the destination, and displays it on the liquid crystal panel 11. Output.

  Here, since the display distance and the display size are in an inversely proportional relationship, the size conversion is, for example, a size for displaying the image of the virtual guide vehicle 1 stored in the image memory 19 40 meters ahead. Then, when the display distance of the virtual guide vehicle 1 is 50 m away, the stored image of the virtual guide vehicle 1 is converted to a size of 80%.

  The color conversion is determined by the remaining distance data to the destination obtained from the navigation system 18. For example, it is black when the remaining distance to the destination is 10 km or more, blue when the remaining distance is 5 km to 10 km, and green when the remaining distance is within 5 km.

  Due to the display output of the virtual guide vehicle 1, the driver 8 looks as if the virtual guide vehicle 1 performing route guidance is traveling in front of the host vehicle 9 through the windshield 9 b, so that complicated roads are not mistaken. You can drive to.

  If an actual preceding vehicle exists and the process proceeds to step 109, the display controller 12 reads an image of a frame for surrounding the preceding vehicle from the image memory 19 in step 109.

  In step 111 (S111) following step 109, as in step 108, a display indicating that entry is prohibited on the road that is not subject to route guidance is displayed on the liquid crystal panel 11 in a place where the traveling direction of the host vehicle 9 needs to be selected. Do.

  In step 112 (S112), the display controller 12 displays the frame image read in step 109 at the actual position of the preceding vehicle so as to overlap the windshield 9b through the liquid crystal panel 11.

  Thus, when there is an actual preceding vehicle, the virtual guide vehicle 1 is not displayed. Then, the route guidance is performed by following the host vehicle 9 using the actual preceding vehicle surrounded by a frame instead of the virtual guide vehicle 1 as a mark. When the actual preceding vehicle turns right or left and no longer exists in front of the host vehicle 9, the virtual guide vehicle 1 is displayed and route guidance by the virtual guide vehicle 1 is performed.

  Note that the execution order of step 108 for performing display output of the road sign 1a forbidden to enter and step 110 for performing display output of the virtual guide vehicle 1 may be reversed. Similarly, the execution order of step 111 and step 112 may be reversed.

  The above is the configuration, operation, and the like of the vehicle display device 10 of the present embodiment.

  By the way, according to the present embodiment, the liquid crystal panel 11 as a virtual object display means for displaying a virtual object 1 that is not actually present as a virtual image by superimposing it on the scenery in front of the host vehicle 9 through the windshield 9b. The controller 12 and the image memory 19 are provided, and a predetermined distance in the traveling direction obtained from the navigation system 18 as the route guidance means with the position of the own vehicle 9 obtained by the GPS controller 17 as the own vehicle position detection means as a reference. The virtual guide vehicle 1 as a virtual object is displayed at the advanced position by the virtual object display means 11, 12, 19.

  According to this, the virtual guide vehicle 1 displayed at the front position of the host vehicle 9 serves as a mark for the destination in the actual scenery seen from the driver 8 through the windshield 9b, not on the conventional map. Therefore, the uncomfortable feeling of the driver 8 can be reduced as much as possible.

  Therefore, according to the present embodiment, it is possible to provide the vehicular display device 10 that enables a new easy-to-understand route guidance display without hindering the driving of the driver 8.

  In the present embodiment, the virtual object 1 displayed as a virtual image is an automobile (virtual guided vehicle) 1 as a moving object. Thus, by making the virtual object 1 a moving object, the driver 8 can feel less uncomfortable, which is preferable.

  In the above example, the moving object is a car that is a moving object that travels on the road in the real world. However, when the vehicle display device 10 is attached to a motorcycle, the moving object is a virtual object. It may be a motorcycle.

  Further, in the present embodiment, the virtual object display means 11, 12, 19 may be configured to display the direction in which the virtual object 1 turns in advance when the virtual object 1 turns right or left at the intersection. Good.

  As described above, when the virtual object (virtual guide vehicle) 1 turns right and left at the intersection, it is preferable to display the direction of turning in advance at the intersection because a more easy-to-understand route guidance display is possible.

  Specifically, as a method of displaying the turning direction, the virtual guidance vehicle 1 with a direction indicator is used as the virtual object 1 so that the direction indicator is turned on when the virtual guidance vehicle 1 turns left or right. .

  For example, the lighting of the turn indicator for turning right starts from the time when the virtual guide vehicle 1 is about 30 meters before the intersection where the right turn is made, and the lighting is turned off when passing through the intersection. By doing so, the virtual guide vehicle 1 can be a realistic guide vehicle that is closer to reality, and the driver 8 can follow route guidance without a sense of incongruity.

  In addition, as a method of specifically displaying the turning direction, for example, when the virtual guide vehicle 1 is approaching an intersection where a right turn is made, a method of displaying an arrow pointing rightward on the virtual guide vehicle 1 is displayed. Can also be adopted.

  In the present embodiment, as described above, the width of the virtual object 1 is set equal to the width of the host vehicle 9 when the host vehicle 9 is recognized at the position where the virtual object 1 is displayed. There is an advantage that the driver 8 can easily grasp the vehicle feeling when the host vehicle 9 actually passes the position where the virtual object 1 is displayed.

  This advantage is also achieved by setting the width of the virtual object 1 to be slightly larger than the width of the host vehicle 9 when the host vehicle 9 is recognized at the position where the virtual object 1 is displayed. Is done.

  Further, the display position of the virtual object 1 is not particularly limited, but it is preferable to display the virtual object 1 at a position far from the braking distance of the host vehicle 9 or a position farther than the braking distance. In the example of the present embodiment described above, the virtual object 1 is displayed at a position far from the braking distance of the host vehicle 9.

  An obstacle located closer to the host vehicle 9 than the display position of the virtual object 1 can be seen by the driver 8, but for an obstacle existing ahead of the display position of the virtual object 1, the virtual object 1 is the obstacle. It is possible that the driver 8 cannot see it.

  If the display position of the virtual object 1 is closer to the host vehicle 9 than the braking distance of the host vehicle 9, an obstacle that cannot be seen by the driver 8 is closer to the braking distance of the host vehicle 9. Even if the driver 8 detects the obstacle and applies the brake, there are cases where the driver 8 is not in time.

  However, if the virtual object 1 is displayed at a position far from the braking distance of the host vehicle 9 or at a position farther than the braking distance, an obstacle that cannot be seen by the driver 8 can be detected by the braking distance of the host vehicle 9. If the driver 8 senses the obstacle and applies the brake, it will be in time.

  In the present embodiment, a plurality of virtual guide cars 1 may be displayed. Thereby, it is possible to sequentially arrange the virtual guide cars 1 along the traveling direction, and a more easily understandable route guidance display is possible, which is preferable.

  More specifically, for example, one virtual guide vehicle 1 is disposed at a position at a braking distance from the host vehicle 9, and another virtual guide vehicle 1 is disposed at a position 100 m away from the host vehicle 9. By doing so, the driver 8 can understand which path the guided vehicle will take in the future, and can drive with ease.

  In the present embodiment, as a preferred mode, the virtual object display means 11, 12, and 19 are shown in FIG. 1 in a place where it is necessary to select the traveling direction of the vehicle 9 such as an intersection or a branch road. As shown in FIG. 4, the road sign 1a as a virtual image is displayed to indicate that entry is prohibited on a road that is not subject to route guidance.

  According to this, the driver 8 can recognize the direction in which the virtual guided vehicle 1 should travel, and can also recognize the direction in which the virtual guidance vehicle 1 should not travel. The steps 108 and 111 may be omitted. In other words, the road sign prohibiting entry may not be displayed.

  In the present embodiment, the virtual object display means 11, 12, 19 displays the actual preceding vehicle surrounded by a frame when the actual preceding vehicle exists at a position within the braking distance of the host vehicle 9. ing. According to this, the distinction between the virtual guide vehicle 1 displayed as a virtual image via the windshield 9b and the preceding vehicle that actually looks like a landscape becomes clear, which is preferable.

  In particular, in the example described above in the present embodiment, the virtual object display means 11, 12, and 19 prevent the virtual guide vehicle 1 from being displayed when the actual preceding vehicle exists at a position within the braking distance of the host vehicle 8. By doing so, an easy-to-understand route guidance display is realized using the actual preceding vehicle as a guide vehicle.

  In the present embodiment, as a preferred form, in step 110, the design of the shape and color of the displayed virtual object 1 is changed according to the remaining distance from the position of the host vehicle 9 to the destination. In the above example, the color of the displayed virtual object 1 is changed according to the remaining distance to the destination.

  In this way, if the design of the displayed virtual object 1 is changed according to the remaining distance to the destination, the driver 8 can know the remaining distance due to the difference in the design of the virtual object 1, so that the route is easier to understand. Guide display is possible, which is preferable.

  Further, in the present embodiment, the virtual guide vehicle 1 is not always located at a position far from the own vehicle 9 by the braking distance of the own vehicle 9, but is automatically sent to the destination by an instruction by a switch (not shown) of the driver 8. The vehicle may travel at a speed higher than that of the vehicle 9.

  For example, when the driver 8 wants to know the travel route first, such as when a complicated road spreads ahead, when the driver 8 presses the switch, the virtual guide vehicle 1 moves from the tip of the host vehicle 9. If you can see how you jump out and drive to your destination at a high speed, you can have plenty of room for future driving.

  Such a virtual guide vehicle 1 runs at a higher speed than the host vehicle 9. When such a high-speed moving function of the virtual guide vehicle 1 is provided, in the vehicle display device including the own vehicle position detecting means 17 and the route guiding means 18, the virtual object 1 is placed on the windshield 9b. Via virtual object display means 11, 12, and 19 that are superimposed on the scenery in front of the host vehicle 9 and displayed as a virtual image, and are obtained from the route guide unit 18 from the vicinity of the position of the host vehicle 9 by an occupant's operation. A vehicle display device 10 is provided that displays a state in which the virtual object 1 moves on the road at a higher speed than the host vehicle 9 in the traveling direction.

  Even with such a vehicular display device 10, the virtual object 1 displayed at the front position of the host vehicle 9 in the actual landscape seen from the driver 8 through the windshield 9 b, not on the map as in the past. Since it becomes a mark for the ground, the driver 9 can be made to feel as little as possible.

  Furthermore, as described above, since the state in which the virtual object 1 moves on the road at high speed from the vicinity of the position of the own vehicle 9 toward the traveling direction (that is, toward the destination) is displayed, the driver 8 It is possible to know the route to the destination at an earlier stage.

  Therefore, even with such a vehicle display device, it is possible to provide a vehicle display device that enables a new and easier-to-understand route guidance display without hindering the driving of the driver 8.

(Second Embodiment)
FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a display state of the virtual object 2 through the windshield 9b in the vehicle display device 20 according to the second embodiment of the present invention, and the host vehicle through the windshield 9b from the driver seat side. It is a figure when the front of 9 is seen.

  As shown in FIG. 4, in the present embodiment, the position of the landmark guided by voice in the scenery in front of the vehicle or the position corresponding to the position on the map instructed by the occupant in the scenery in front of the vehicle. In addition, a circle 2 as a virtual object is displayed. Hereinafter, the circle 2 as the virtual object is referred to as a virtual circle 2.

  FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of the vehicle display device 20 according to the present embodiment. Also in FIG. 5, the front half of the host vehicle 9 is schematically shown, and a front wheel 9 a, a windshield 9 b, and a handle 9 c are shown together with a driver (driver) 8.

  The vehicle display device 20 according to the present embodiment mainly includes a liquid crystal panel 21, a display controller 22, a map display display 23, a touch panel 24, a voice guidance device 25, a GPS controller 27, a navigation system 28, and an image memory 29. It is prepared.

  The liquid crystal panel 21 is for projecting a virtual image display to the driver 8 via the windshield 9b, and the display controller 22 is for processing the display projected on the liquid crystal panel 21.

  The liquid crystal panel 21 is disposed on the upper part of the instrument panel of the host vehicle 9 and displays an image output from the display controller 22. The display is reflected by the windshield 9b and the driver 8 sees it as a virtual image.

  As for the position where the virtual circle 2 as the virtual image is displayed, the display image output from the display controller 22 is displayed (superimposed and displayed) at a position superimposed on the actual scenery in front of the host vehicle 9. )doing. Such a liquid crystal panel 21 can employ the same liquid crystal panel as that of the first embodiment, and the arrangement thereof can also be the same as that of the first embodiment.

  The GPS controller 27 is the same as the GPS controller of the first embodiment, receives a GPS signal, calculates the own vehicle position based on the GPS signal, and displays the calculated own vehicle position. This is output to the controller 22 as own vehicle position data.

  The navigation system 28 outputs route guidance data to the destination of the host vehicle 9 to the display controller 22. The image memory 29 stores display object data such as images displayed on the liquid crystal panel 21, that is, display data. Of course, the display data of the virtual circle 2 is also stored in the image memory 29.

  Also in this embodiment, the display controller 22, the GPS controller 27, the navigation system 28, and the image memory 29 are configured by a microcomputer or the like.

  Here, in this embodiment, the navigation system 28 further outputs map data around the host vehicle 9 to the map display 23. The map data is stored in, for example, a storage device of the navigation system 28.

  When the occupant presses the touch panel 24 installed on the display 23, the position on the map instructed by the occupant is detected, and the detected position is input to the display controller 22.

  Here, the map display 23 is provided at a position as shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, and can be seen by a passenger including the driver 8. As such a map display 23, a normal liquid crystal display (LCD), EL (electroluminescence) display, or the like can be adopted.

  Further, the touch panel 24 is generally well known, and a normal one can be adopted also in the present embodiment. For example, if the occupant touches the cross mark portion shown on the map display 23 in FIG. 4, this position becomes the position on the map indicated by the occupant.

  When position data on the map (map position data) instructed by the occupant is input to the display controller 22, the display controller 22 calculates where in the actual landscape the position instructed on the map is. .

  Next, the display controller 22 reads the image of the virtual circle 2 that is a virtual object from the image memory 29, and outputs the image to the liquid crystal panel 21 so as to overlap the calculated landscape position. Is displayed as a virtual image on the windshield 9b.

  Also, the voice guidance device 25 provides guidance by voice using landmarks such as convenience stores and post offices in the same manner as the voice guidance device in a normal navigation system. In this embodiment, the voice guidance device 25 also uses the navigation system 28. It is to be controlled.

  Here, in this embodiment, when a landmark (convenience store or the like) is announced by the voice guidance device 25, first, the navigation system 28 and the GPS controller 27 are used to first check the actual distance from the vehicle 9 to the landmark. The position (distance) is calculated.

  Then, the display controller 22 reads the image of the virtual circle 2 that is a virtual object from the image memory 29, and outputs the image to the liquid crystal panel 21 so as to overlap the calculated landmark position in the scenery in front of the vehicle. The virtual circle 2 is displayed as a virtual image on the windshield 9b.

  In this embodiment, the liquid crystal panel 21, the display controller 22 and the image memory 29 constitute the virtual object display means 21, 22, and 29, and the GPS controller 27 constitutes the own vehicle position detecting means. The navigation system 28 constitutes route guidance means.

  Further, a map display means is constituted by the map display 23, an instruction position means is constituted by the touch panel 24, and a voice guidance means is constituted by the voice guidance device 25.

  In other words, according to the present embodiment, in the vehicle display device 20 including the host vehicle position detection unit 27 that detects the position of the host vehicle 9 and the route guide unit 28 that guides the host vehicle 9 to the destination. A virtual object display means 21, 22, 29 for displaying a virtual object 2 that does not exist as a virtual image superimposed on the scenery in front of the host vehicle 9 through the windshield 9b, and a map for displaying a route guidance map on the display The display means 23 and the indication position means 24 for detecting the position on the map indicated by the occupant on the display in the map display means 23 are provided. On the map detected by the indication position means 24 in the landscape. The vehicle display device 20 is provided in which the virtual object 2 is displayed by the virtual object display means 21, 22, and 29 at a position corresponding to this position.

  In addition, according to the present embodiment, in the vehicle display device 20 including the own vehicle position detection unit 27 and the route guidance unit 28, guidance is provided by voice using the virtual object display units 21, 22, 29 and landmarks. And a virtual object display means 21, 22, 29 at the position of a landmark guided by voice by the voice guidance means 25 in the scenery in front of the vehicle. There is provided a display device for a vehicle that displays.

  Next, with reference to FIG. 6, the operation of the vehicle display device 20 of the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a flowchart of processing for displaying a virtual object in the display device 20 for the vehicle.

  Similarly to the above-described embodiment, the vehicle display device 20 starts operation when the ignition switch of the host vehicle 9 is turned on. With the start of the operation of the vehicle display device 20, The virtual object display process as shown in FIG. 6 is started.

  First, in step 200 (S200), various data are read in the vehicle display device 20.

  That is, the GPS controller 27 reads the GPS signal, the display controller 22 reads the route guidance data from the navigation system 28, and if the occupant gives an instruction from the touch panel 24, the indicated position data on the map is displayed. Read (map position data).

  In subsequent step 201 (S201), the GPS controller 27 calculates the position of the host vehicle based on the input GPS signal.

  Next, if the occupant is touching the touch panel 24, that is, if “map position data is present”, the process proceeds to step 202 (S202). If not touched, that is, if “map position data is not present”, step 203 is performed. Proceed to (S203).

  In step 202, the display controller 22 calculates which part of the landscape in front of the vehicle the position instructed by the occupant is based on the route guidance data and map position data received in step 200, and proceeds to step 204 (S204). .

  On the other hand, in step 203, when the landmark is announced by the voice guidance device 25, the display controller 22 calculates the position where the landmark is based on the own vehicle 9 in the scenery in front of the vehicle. Then, the process proceeds to step 204.

  In subsequent step 204, the display controller 22 reads a display image of the virtual circle 2 that is a virtual object from the image memory 29.

  In the next step 205 (S205), the image read in step 204 is displayed as a virtual image on the windshield 9b by the liquid crystal panel 21 at the position calculated in step 202 or step 203 in the landscape ahead of the vehicle.

  Thereby, for example, even when the passenger in the passenger seat instructs the driver 8 to provide route guidance, the driver 8 knows the position indicated by the passenger in the passenger seat as the position where the virtual object 2 is located through the windshield 9b. be able to. Therefore, the driver 8 can travel without making a mistake on a complicated road.

  Similarly, in the case of making a right or left turn at a landmark in voice guidance, the driver 8 can know the position of the virtual object 2 through the windshield 9b. Therefore, the driver 8 can travel without making a mistake on a complicated road.

  The above is the configuration, operation, and the like of the vehicle display device 20 of the present embodiment.

  By the way, according to the present embodiment, in the vehicle display device 20 including the host vehicle position detection unit 27 and the route guide unit 28, the virtual object 2 that does not actually exist is displayed on the host vehicle 9 via the windshield 9b. An occupant instructed on the display in the virtual object display means 21, 22, 29 for displaying as a virtual image superimposed on the scenery in front, the map display means 23 for displaying a route guidance map on the display, and the display in the map display means 23 Virtual object display means 21 at a position corresponding to the position on the map detected by the indicated position means 24 in the scenery in front of the vehicle. 22 and 29, the virtual object 2 is displayed.

  According to this, the virtual object 2 displayed at the position instructed by the occupant becomes a landmark in the actual scenery that can be seen from the driver 8 through the windshield 9b, not on the map as in the past, so the driver 8 feels uncomfortable. Can be made as small as possible.

  In the present embodiment, in the vehicle display device 20 including the route guidance unit 28, the virtual object 2 that does not actually exist is superimposed on the scenery in front of the host vehicle 9 through the windshield 9b and displayed as a virtual image. Virtual object display means 21, 22, and 29, and voice guidance means 25 for performing voice guidance using landmarks, and a land guided by voice by the voice guidance means 25 in the scenery in front of the vehicle. The virtual object 2 is displayed by the virtual object display means 21, 22, and 29 at the mark position.

  According to this, the virtual object (virtual circle) 2 displayed at the position of the landmark guided by voice in the actual scenery seen from the driver 8 through the windshield 9b, not on the map as in the past. Since it becomes a mark, the uncomfortable feeling of the driver 8 can be reduced as much as possible.

  Thus, according to the present embodiment, it is possible to provide the vehicular display device 20 that enables a new easy-to-understand route guidance display without hindering the driving of the driver 8.

  Also in the present embodiment, as in the first embodiment, as a preferred embodiment, the design of the shape and color of the displayed virtual object 2 is changed according to the remaining distance from the position of the host vehicle 9 to the destination. You may do it. Accordingly, since the driver 8 can know the remaining distance due to the difference in the design of the virtual object 2, a more easily understandable route guidance display is possible, which is preferable.

  Note that this embodiment may be combined with the first embodiment. In this case, although not shown, the virtual guide wheel 1 shown in FIG. 1 is the first virtual object, and the virtual circle 2 shown in FIG. 4 is the second virtual object. 2 is displayed as a virtual image from the liquid crystal panel 11 through the windshield 9b.

  When such a combination is adopted and the virtual display device of the present embodiment is further displayed in the vehicle display device 10 of FIG. 2, that is, the first embodiment, the following is performed. A vehicle display device is provided.

  That is, the vehicle display device including the host vehicle position detection unit 17 and the route guidance unit 18 includes virtual object display units 11, 12 and 19, and the host vehicle 9 obtained by the host vehicle position detection unit 17 The first virtual object 1 is displayed at a position advanced by a predetermined distance in the traveling direction obtained from the route guidance means 18 with the position as a reference. Furthermore, the map display means 23, the indicated position means 24, And the second virtual object 2 is displayed through the windshield 9b at a position corresponding to the position on the map detected by the indication position means 24 in the landscape in front of the vehicle. A vehicle display device is provided.

  According to this, the driver 8 can recognize the direction to be traveled by the first virtual object 1 and can also recognize the second virtual object 2 as a mark, which makes it possible to display route guidance more easily, which is preferable.

  Similarly, when the second embodiment is further combined with the vehicle display device of the first embodiment, the virtual object display means 11 is provided in the vehicle display device including the route guidance means 18. , 12, 19, and the first virtual object at a position advanced by a predetermined distance in the traveling direction obtained from the route guiding means 18 with reference to the position of the own vehicle 9 obtained by the own vehicle position detecting means 17. 1 is further displayed, and voice guidance means 25 is provided, and the position of the landmark guided by voice by the voice guidance means 25 in the scenery in front of the vehicle is displayed through the windshield 9b. A vehicular display device characterized by displaying two virtual objects 2 is provided.

  In this case as well, the driver 8 can recognize the direction to be traveled by the first virtual object 1 and can also recognize the second virtual object 2 as a mark.

(Third embodiment)
FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a display state of the virtual object 3 through the windshield 9b in the vehicle display device 30 according to the third embodiment of the present invention, and the host vehicle through the windshield 9b from the driver's seat side. It is a figure when the front of 9 is seen.

  As shown in FIG. 7, in the present embodiment, the person 3 as a virtual object is displayed at a position advanced by a predetermined distance in the traveling direction with reference to the position of the host vehicle 9. Hereinafter, the person 3 as the virtual object is referred to as a virtual guider 3.

  FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of the vehicle display device 30 according to the present embodiment. Also in FIG. 8, the front half of the vehicle 9 is schematically shown in the host vehicle 9, and a front wheel 9 a, a windshield 9 b, and a handle 9 c are shown together with a driver (driver) 8.

  The vehicular display device 10 of the present embodiment is mainly configured to include a liquid crystal panel 31, a display controller 32, a GPS controller 37, a navigation system 38, and an image memory 39.

  The liquid crystal panel 31 is for projecting a virtual image display to the driver 8 via the windshield 9b, and the display controller 32 is for processing the display projected on the liquid crystal panel 31.

  The liquid crystal panel 31 is disposed on the upper part of the instrument panel of the host vehicle 9 and displays an image output from the display controller 22. The display is reflected by the windshield 9b and the driver 8 sees it as a virtual image.

  As for the position where the virtual guider 3 is displayed as the virtual image, the display image output by the display controller 32 is displayed (superimposed and displayed) at a position superimposed on the actual scenery in front of the host vehicle 9. )doing. Such a liquid crystal panel 31 can employ the same liquid crystal panel as that of the first embodiment, and the arrangement thereof can also be the same as that of the first embodiment.

  The GPS controller 37 is the same as the GPS controller of the first embodiment, receives a GPS signal, calculates the own vehicle position based on the GPS signal, and displays the calculated own vehicle position. This is output to the controller 32 as own vehicle position data.

  The navigation system 38 outputs route guidance data to the destination of the host vehicle 9 and data on the position and size of the intersection or branch point to the display controller 32. Here, the data of the position and size of the intersection or branch point is data such as the direction and shape of the intersection or branch point, and the road width.

  The image memory 39 stores display object data such as images displayed on the liquid crystal panel 31, that is, display data. Of course, the display data of the virtual guide 3 is also stored in the image memory 39. Here, the image of the virtual guide 3 is provided with a pattern in which a finger is pointed in the straight direction, right direction, and left direction.

  Also in the present embodiment, the display controller 32, the GPS controller 37, the navigation system 38, and the image memory 39 are constituted by a microcomputer or the like.

  In the display controller 32, the vehicle position data input from the GPS controller 37 and the route guidance data input from the navigation system 38 are within a predetermined distance (here, for example, 100 m) from the vehicle 9. Determine if there is an intersection or branch.

  If there is an intersection or branch point, the display controller 32 calculates the position of the sidewalk or shoulder of the intersection or branch point, and then the virtual guider pointing the direction of travel from the image memory 39. 3 images are read out and output to the liquid crystal panel 31.

  In this way, the image of the virtual guide 3 displayed from the liquid crystal panel 31 is reflected by the windshield 9b, and is displayed as a virtual image superimposed on the scenery in front of the host vehicle 9 via the windshield 9b.

  At this time, the driver 8 can recognize the virtual guider 3 as a virtual image on a sidewalk or a shoulder near the intersection or branch point in front of the host vehicle 9.

  In this embodiment, the liquid crystal panel 31, the display controller 32, and the image memory 39 constitute the virtual object display means 31, 32, 39, and the GPS controller 37 constitutes the own vehicle position detection means. The navigation system 38 constitutes route guidance means.

  That is, according to the present embodiment, in the vehicle display device 30 including the host vehicle position detection unit 37 that detects the position of the host vehicle 9 and the route guide unit 38 that guides the host vehicle 9 to the destination. Has virtual object display means 31, 32, 39 for displaying the virtual object 3 that does not exist as a virtual image superimposed on the scenery in front of the host vehicle 9 through the windshield 9 b, and the host vehicle 9 will turn left and right from now on Alternatively, the vehicle display device 30 for displaying the virtual object 3 is provided by the virtual object display means 31, 32, 39 on the sidewalk or road shoulder at the branch point.

  Next, the operation of the vehicle display device 30 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a flowchart of processing for displaying a virtual object in the display device 30 for the vehicle.

  Similarly to the above-described embodiment, the vehicle display device 30 starts to operate when the ignition switch of the host vehicle 9 is on, for example. With the start of the operation of the vehicle display device 30, The virtual object display process as shown in FIG. 9 is started.

  First, in step 300 (S300), various data are read in the vehicle display device 30. The GPS controller 37 reads a GPS signal, and the display controller 32 reads route guidance data and intersection position and size data from the navigation system 38.

  In the subsequent step 301 (S301), the GPS controller 37 calculates the host vehicle position based on the input GPS signal, and outputs the host vehicle position data to the display controller 32.

  At this time, if an intersection (or a branch point) exists within, for example, 100 m of the host vehicle 9, the process proceeds to step 303 (S303). If there is no intersection (or branch point) within 100 m of the host vehicle 9, the process returns to the first step 300 to repeat the above flow.

  In subsequent step 303, the display controller 12 reads an image of the virtual guider 3 pointing in the traveling direction instructed by the route guidance from the image memory 39.

  In the subsequent step 304 (S304), the position of the sidewalk (or road shoulder) displaying the virtual guider 3 is calculated at the intersection (or branch point) existing within 100 m of the host vehicle 9 in the landscape ahead of the vehicle. For this, the position of the sidewalk is calculated from the position and size of the intersection.

  In the subsequent step 305 (S305), the display controller 32 converts the display size and color of the virtual guider 3 read in step 303 according to the display distance and the remaining distance to the destination.

  Here, the display size and color conversion of the virtual guider 3 is the same as in the case of the virtual guide vehicle in the first embodiment.

  In step 306, the display controller 32 outputs the image of the virtual guider 3 to the liquid crystal panel 31 at the display position calculated in step 304.

  Due to the display output of the virtual guider 3, the driver 8 displays the image of the virtual guider 3 instructing the route through the windshield 9 b on the sidewalk (or shoulder) of the intersection (or branch point). You can drive without making a mistake on the road.

  The above is the configuration, operation, and the like of the vehicle display device 30 of the present embodiment.

  By the way, according to the present embodiment, in the vehicle display device 30 including the own vehicle position detecting means 37 and the route guiding means 38, the virtual object 3 that does not actually exist is displayed on the own vehicle 9 via the windshield 9b. It has virtual object display means 31, 32, 39 that are displayed as a virtual image superimposed on the scenery in front, and the virtual object 3 is displayed on the sidewalk or shoulder at the intersection or branch point where the own vehicle 9 will turn right or left. It is characterized by.

  According to this, the virtual object (virtual guide) 3 displayed on the sidewalk or the shoulder at the intersection or branch point is a landmark in the actual scenery seen from the driver 8 through the windshield 9b, not on the conventional map. Therefore, the uncomfortable feeling of the driver 8 can be reduced as much as possible.

  Therefore, according to the present embodiment, it is possible to provide the vehicle display device 30 that enables a new easy-to-understand route guidance display without hindering the driving of the driver 8.

  In the present embodiment, the virtual guider 3 may not only guide at an intersection or a branch point, but also point to a building or the like as a destination. In this case, the virtual guider 3 is displayed on a sidewalk or a shoulder near the destination. As a result, the driver 8 can easily recognize the destination.

  In this case, in the vehicle display device 30 including the host vehicle position detection unit 37 and the route guidance unit 38, the virtual object 3 that does not actually exist is displayed on the scenery in front of the host vehicle 9 through the windshield 9b. A vehicle characterized by having virtual object display means 31, 32, 39 for displaying as a virtual image superimposed on each other, and displaying a virtual object 3 indicating that it is the destination on a sidewalk or a shoulder near the destination. A display device is provided.

  Even in this case, the virtual object 3 displayed on the sidewalk or the shoulder near the destination becomes a landmark in the actual scenery that can be seen from the driver 8 through the windshield 9b, not on the map as in the past. Can be made as small as possible.

  Therefore, also in this case, it is possible to provide the vehicular display device 30 that enables a new easy-to-understand route guidance display without disturbing the driving of the driver 8.

  Further, in the present embodiment, the virtual object is not particularly limited as long as the virtual object has a shape indicating the traveling direction or the destination of the intersection, but if it is a human-like display like the virtual guide 3, The driver 8 can recognize as if a person is guiding, and the feeling of strangeness can be further reduced.

  Also in this embodiment, if the design of the displayed virtual object 3 is changed according to the remaining distance from the position of the host vehicle 9 to the destination, the driver 8 knows the remaining distance due to the difference in the design of the virtual object 3. Therefore, a more easily understandable route guidance display is possible, which is preferable.

In 1st Embodiment of this invention, it is a figure which shows the mode of a display of the virtual object when the front of the own vehicle is seen through a windshield from the driver's seat side. It is a figure which shows schematic structure of the display apparatus for vehicles which concerns on the said 1st Embodiment. It is a figure which shows the flowchart about the process which performs the virtual object display in the said 1st Embodiment. In 2nd Embodiment of this invention, it is a figure which shows the mode of a display of the virtual object when the front of the own vehicle is seen through a windshield from the driver's seat side. It is a figure which shows schematic structure of the display apparatus for vehicles which concerns on the said 2nd Embodiment. It is a figure which shows the flowchart about the process which performs the virtual object display in the said 2nd Embodiment. In 3rd Embodiment of this invention, it is a figure which shows the mode of the display of a virtual object when the front of the own vehicle is seen through a windshield from the driver's seat side. It is a figure which shows schematic structure of the display apparatus for vehicles which concerns on the said 3rd Embodiment. It is a figure which shows the flowchart about the process which performs the virtual object display in the said 3rd Embodiment.

Explanation of symbols

1 ... Automobile (virtual guided vehicle) as a virtual object,
2 ... a circle as a virtual object (virtual circle), 3 ... a person as a virtual object (virtual guide),
9 ... own vehicle, 9b ... windshield, 11, 21, 31 ... liquid crystal panel,
12, 22, 32 ... a display controller as a virtual object display means,
17, 27, 37 ... GPS controller as own vehicle position detecting means,
18, 28, 38 ... navigation system as route guidance means,
19, 29, 39 ... image memory as virtual object display means,
23 ... Map display as map display means,
24 ... a touch panel as a pointing position means,
25: A voice guidance device as voice guidance means.

Claims (21)

Own vehicle position detecting means (17) for detecting the position of the own vehicle (9);
In a vehicle display device comprising route guidance means (18) for guiding the host vehicle (9) to a destination,
Virtual object display means (11, 12, 19) for displaying a virtual object (1) that does not actually exist as a virtual image superimposed on the scenery in front of the host vehicle (9) through the windshield (9b) is provided. And
Based on the position of the host vehicle (9) obtained by the host vehicle position detection means (17), the virtual object display is displayed at a position advanced by a predetermined distance in the traveling direction obtained from the route guidance means (18). A vehicular display device that displays the virtual object (1) by means (11, 12, 19). Own vehicle position detecting means (17) for detecting the position of the own vehicle (9);
In a vehicle display device comprising route guidance means (18) for guiding the host vehicle (9) to a destination,
Virtual object display means (11, 12, 19) for displaying a virtual object (1) that does not actually exist as a virtual image superimposed on the scenery in front of the host vehicle (9) through the windshield (9b) is provided. And
A state in which the virtual object (1) moves on the road at a higher speed than the own vehicle (9) from the vicinity of the position of the own vehicle (9) toward the traveling direction obtained from the route guiding means (18). A display device for a vehicle characterized by displaying by the virtual object display means (11, 12, 19). The vehicle display device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the virtual object (1) displayed as the virtual image is a moving object. The vehicle display device according to claim 3, wherein the moving object is an automobile or a motorcycle. The virtual object display means (11, 12, 19) is configured to display the direction in which the virtual object (1) bends in advance when the virtual object (1) turns right or left at the intersection. The vehicle display device according to any one of claims 1 to 4. The width of the displayed virtual object (1) is the same as the width of the own vehicle (9) when the own vehicle (9) is recognized at the position where the virtual object (1) is displayed. The vehicle display device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the vehicle has a width of the above size. 7. The virtual object (1) is displayed at a position far from the braking distance of the host vehicle (9) or at a position farther than the braking distance. 7. Vehicle display device. The vehicular display device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein a plurality of the virtual objects (1) are displayed. The virtual object display means (11, 12, 19) displays an entry prohibition on a road that is not subject to route guidance at a place where the traveling direction of the host vehicle (9) needs to be selected. The vehicular display device according to any one of claims 1 to 8. 10. The vehicle display device according to claim 9, wherein the place where the traveling direction of the host vehicle (9) needs to be selected is an intersection or a branch road. The virtual object display means (11, 12, 19) displays the actual preceding vehicle surrounded by a frame when the actual preceding vehicle exists at a position within the braking distance of the host vehicle (9). The vehicle display device according to claim 1, wherein the vehicle display device is provided. The virtual object display means (11, 12, 19) prevents the virtual object (1) from being displayed when an actual preceding vehicle exists at a position within the braking distance of the host vehicle (9). The vehicle display device according to claim 11, wherein the display device is a vehicle display device. Map display means (23) for displaying a route guidance map on the display;
An indication position means (24) for detecting a position on the map indicated by an occupant on the display in the map display means (23);
When the virtual object (1) is a first virtual object,
A position corresponding to the position on the map detected by the indicated position means (24) in the landscape is displayed through the windshield (9b) by the virtual object display means (21, 22, 29). The vehicle display device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein two virtual objects (2) are displayed. Voice guidance means (25) for performing guidance by voice using landmarks;
When the virtual object (1) is a first virtual object,
A second position of the scenery is guided through the windshield (9b) by the virtual object display means (21, 22, 29) to the position of the landmark guided by the voice guidance means (25). The vehicular display device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the virtual object (2) is displayed. Own vehicle position detecting means (27) for detecting the position of the own vehicle (9);
In a vehicle display device comprising route guidance means (28) for guiding the host vehicle (9) to a destination,
Virtual object display means (21, 22, 29) for displaying a virtual object (2) that does not actually exist as a virtual image superimposed on the scenery in front of the host vehicle (9) through the windshield (9b);
Map display means (23) for displaying a route guidance map on the display;
Instructed position means (24) for detecting the position on the map instructed by an occupant on the display in the map display means (23),
The virtual object (2) is displayed by the virtual object display means (21, 22, 29) at a position corresponding to the position on the map detected by the indicated position means (24) in the landscape. A display device for vehicles. Own vehicle position detecting means (27) for detecting the position of the own vehicle (9);
In a vehicle display device comprising route guidance means (28) for guiding the host vehicle (9) to a destination,
Virtual object display means (21, 22, 29) for displaying a virtual object (2) that does not actually exist as a virtual image superimposed on the scenery in front of the host vehicle (9) through the windshield (9b);
Voice guidance means (25) for performing guidance by voice using landmarks,
The virtual object (2) is displayed by the virtual object display means (21, 22, 29) at the position of the landmark guided by voice by the voice guidance means (25) in the landscape. A vehicle display device. Own vehicle position detecting means (37) for detecting the position of the own vehicle (9);
In a vehicle display device comprising route guidance means (38) for guiding the host vehicle (9) to a destination,
Virtual object display means (31, 32, 39) for displaying a virtual object (3) that does not actually exist as a virtual image superimposed on the scenery in front of the host vehicle (9) through the windshield (9b) is provided. And
The virtual object (3) is displayed by the virtual object display means (31, 32, 39) on the sidewalk or shoulder at the intersection or branch point where the host vehicle (9) will turn right or left. Vehicle display device. Own vehicle position detecting means (37) for detecting the position of the own vehicle (9);
In a vehicle display device comprising route guidance means (38) for guiding the host vehicle (9) to a destination,
Virtual object display means (31, 32, 39) for displaying a virtual object (3) that does not actually exist as a virtual image superimposed on the scenery in front of the host vehicle (9) through the windshield (9b) is provided. And
The vehicular display characterized by displaying the virtual object (3) indicating that it is the destination by the virtual object display means (31, 32, 39) on a sidewalk or a shoulder near the destination. apparatus. The vehicular display device according to claim 17 or 18, characterized in that the virtual object (3) is a human-shaped display. The design of the displayed virtual object (1, 3) is changed according to the remaining distance from the position of the host vehicle (9) to the destination. Vehicle display device. The vehicle display device according to claim 20, wherein the design of the virtual object (1, 3) is a shape or a color of the virtual object (1, 3).

Images