JP2006273138A - Vehicle planning support system - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a vehicle planning support system capable of accurately estimating a sketch of a vehicle model, in a vehicle planning support system supporting planning of the vehicle by indicating the vehicle model on a screen. <P>SOLUTION: The vehicle planning support system comprises a simulation portion 220 producing a three-dimensional image obtained by composing the vehicle model and a background image of a virtual space, and indicating that an estimating monitor device 6; an operation mode image producing portion 222 producing the vehicle model and the background image viewed from a fixed reference point of a driver's seat in the vehicle model as an operation mode image; a sketch mode image producing portion 224 producing the vehicle model and the background image viewed from a position of an estimating person detected by a position detecting device 7 as a sketch mode image by interlocking with the movement of the position of the estimating person; and a display mode switching portion 226 switching the image indicated in the estimating monitor device 6 between the operation mode image and the sketch mode image. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2007,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a vehicle planning support system using a computer, and more particularly, to a vehicle planning support system for more accurately evaluating a vehicle model in a running simulation in a virtual space displayed on a screen. .

  In the development of a new model vehicle, firstly, as a vehicle plan, vehicle packaging and the like are considered based on the concept of the vehicle (commodity as a whole vehicle). The evaluation of the planned vehicle in the conventional vehicle planning has been performed based on a number of drawings showing the outline of the planned vehicle. For this reason, if a part of the planned vehicle was changed, many drawings had to be rewritten. In addition, it takes a great deal of cost and time to produce a clay model, mock-up model, and prototype vehicle. For this reason, it has been difficult to repeat trial and error, such as recreating a clay model, many times.

  Therefore, the present applicant has proposed a vehicle planning support program in order to perform vehicle planning more efficiently and effectively (for example, Patent Document 1). According to a vehicle planning support system that executes such a vehicle planning support program by a computer, a plurality of vehicle models relating to the outer shape of the vehicle, the vehicle interior space, and the like can be displayed on the screen in a deformable manner to support the vehicle planning.

JP 2004-042747 A

  In the planning stage of the vehicle planning support system, various evaluations are performed on the planned vehicle model. In such an evaluation, the vehicle model is displayed in actual size and traveled in a virtual space to reproduce the state at the time of operation such as visibility from the driver and feeling of pressure received by the driver. Evaluation is performed. When performing such an evaluation, the vehicle model and the background image viewed from the fixed reference point of the driver's seat of the vehicle model are displayed in order to suppress the occurrence of variation in evaluation by the evaluator, and the evaluator displays the image on the screen. It is visible from the previous specified position.

  In addition, when considering the packaging of the planned vehicle, so-called sketch evaluation is performed. When performing a floor plan evaluation, a vehicle model viewed from various viewpoints inside and outside the vehicle is displayed to evaluate the size of the passenger compartment.

  By the way, when a real mock-up model or a prototype car is produced and a sketch evaluation is performed, the appearance of the prototype car differs depending on the position of the evaluator. That is, if the evaluator's viewpoint moves, the state of the prototype vehicle seen by the evaluator also changes.

  On the other hand, when a sketch evaluation is performed on a vehicle model displayed on a screen or the like, even if the evaluator moves, the image of the vehicle model does not change in conjunction. For this reason, the evaluator may feel uncomfortable and the sketch evaluation may be inaccurate.

  SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION An object of the present invention is to provide a vehicle planning support system capable of more accurately evaluating a vehicle model in a vehicle planning support system that supports vehicle planning by displaying a vehicle model on a screen. It is said.

  In order to achieve the above object, a vehicle planning support system of the present invention is a vehicle planning support system that supports vehicle planning by displaying a vehicle model on a screen and stores vehicle data and virtual space data. A server, a model construction means for constructing a vehicle model of the vehicle to be planned using the vehicle data stored in the database server, a vehicle model constructed by the model construction means, and a virtual space stored in the database server Simulation means for generating a stereoscopic image obtained by synthesizing a background image of a virtual space constituted by data, an evaluation monitor device for displaying a stereoscopic image generated by the simulation means, and a stereoscopic image displayed on the evaluation monitor device And a position detection device for detecting the position of the evaluator. The vehicle model viewed from the position of the evaluator detected by the operation mode image generating means for generating the vehicle model and the background image viewed from the fixed reference point of the driver seat of the vehicle model as the operation mode image, and the position detection device And a preview mode image generating means for generating a background image as a preview mode image according to the movement of the position of the evaluator, and a display mode for switching an image to be displayed on the display screen between the operation mode image and the preview mode image. And switching means.

  According to the vehicle planning support system of the present invention configured as described above, it is possible to more accurately evaluate the vehicle model.

  By the way, the monitoring apparatus for evaluation normally displays a sketch mode image of the vehicle model on a flat screen. However, unlike the actual vehicle, the simulation image cannot see the display image on the back side of the vehicle model even if the evaluator goes around to the back side of the screen.

  Therefore, in the present invention, preferably, the display mode switching means switches the direction of the vehicle model displayed on the evaluation monitor device. Thereby, a vehicle model can be easily seen and evaluated from arbitrary directions.

In the present invention, it is preferable that the sketch mode image generation means changes the sketch mode image in accordance with the vertical, horizontal, and perspective movements of the evaluator's position with respect to the evaluation monitor device.
Thus, if the preview mode image changes in conjunction with the movement of the evaluator, it is possible to suppress the evaluator from feeling uncomfortable and perform more accurate evaluation.

  In the present invention, preferably, the sketch mode image generation means generates a turntable mode image for displaying the vehicle model in the sketch mode image by rotating it in a horizontal plane in the virtual space. As a result, in the simulation of the vehicle model, it is possible to perform the sketch evaluation in the same manner as the sketch evaluation is performed while the real vehicle is placed on the turntable and rotated.

  Thus, according to the present invention, in the vehicle planning support system that supports the planning of the vehicle by displaying the vehicle model on the screen, it is possible to more accurately evaluate the vehicle model.

Hereinafter, an embodiment of a vehicle planning support system of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.
(1. Overall system)
First, the outline of the vehicle planning support system in the embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the basic configuration of the vehicle planning support system of the present embodiment.
A vehicle planning support system 1 according to this embodiment is a vehicle planning support system that supports a vehicle planning by displaying a vehicle model on a screen, and includes a computer 2 and a database server 4 that stores vehicle data and virtual space data. And an evaluation monitor device 6 that displays a stereoscopic image of the vehicle model, and a position detection device 7 that detects the position of the evaluator who views the stereoscopic image displayed on the evaluation monitor device.

(1. (1) Computer)
The computer 2 includes a CPU 8, a ROM 10, a RAM 12, a storage unit 14, an input unit 16, a display unit 18, an image processing unit 20, and a communication unit 22, which are connected to each other via a system bus.

The input unit 16 is a keyboard, a mouse, or the like for inputting commands and data from the outside.
The ROM 10 stores a boot program for starting the computer 2 and the like.
The storage unit 14 is a storage device such as a hard disk drive. The storage unit 14 includes a plan support program storage unit, which stores a plan support program 30 (see FIG. 2) for realizing the function of the model construction unit and the function of the simulation unit.

The RAM 12 has a program area for temporarily storing a planning support program 30 executed on the vehicle planning support system and various data, and a data area for writing and reading data.
The CPU 8 is a central processing unit, and executes processing by the planning support program 30 (see FIG. 2) in addition to general computer processing.

The image processing unit 20 performs arithmetic processing on data to be displayed based on a command from the CPU 8 and displays the data on the display unit 18 or the evaluation monitor device 6.
The display unit 18 is a liquid crystal display or the like, and displays the vehicle model and data calculated by the image processing unit 20.
The communication unit 22 transmits / receives information to / from the database server 4, the evaluation monitor device 6, and another computer (not shown) via a wireless or wired communication line.

(1. (2) Database)
Next, the database server 4 will be described with reference to FIG.
As shown in FIG. 2, the database server 4 includes various databases in which various vehicle data and virtual space data are stored.
Among these databases, the reference database 60, the appearance database 62, the appearance parts database 64, the interior database 66, and the interior parts database 68 each store “vehicle data” serving as a template for the vehicle model. “Vehicle data” is data defining the shape of the vehicle, the occupant posture, etc., using the values of dimensions and angles relating to the vehicle as parameters (variables).

  The reference database 60 stores vehicle data of main dimension data, occupant data, and underbody data, which serve as a template for a later-described reference model of vehicle models.

  The appearance database 62 stores vehicle data of exterior data, which is appearance data, which becomes a template of an appearance model described later among the vehicle models.

  The exterior part database 64 stores vehicle data of door data and glass data, which is a template of an exterior part model to be described later in the vehicle model.

  The interior database 66 stores vehicle data of upper interior data and lower interior data, which are templates for interior models to be described later among the vehicle models.

  The interior part database 68 stores vehicle data such as instrument panel data, console data, and seat data, which are templates of interior part models described later among the vehicle models.

  Further, the vehicle data of each of the databases 60 to 68 are associated with each other when the processing by the morphing screen display program to be described later is executed, and the consistency of the shape and arrangement of each part of the vehicle is confirmed. Contains rule data to keep.

  Further, the benchmark vehicle database 70 of the database server 4 stores data of specification values such as dimensions and angles of the respective parts of the existing vehicle type for each vehicle type. These data are used as data of a base vehicle that serves as a base for changing the shape of the planned vehicle and the arrangement of each part, and a benchmark vehicle that serves as a comparative control of the planned vehicle.

  Further, the regulation value database 72 of the database server 4 stores data relating to the restriction values for regulation or vehicle design. These data include, for example, specific numerical values such as bumper heights determined by domestic and foreign collision safety standards, and ranges that can be allowed depending on the stage of vehicle planning (roof height, etc. (Specification items) are defined in the specified values.

  Further, the virtual space database 74 of the database server 4 stores virtual space data for forming a background image of the virtual space when the vehicle model is displayed on the evaluation monitor device 6 by simulation. The virtual space data includes data of objects such as buildings, roads, intersections, signals, pedestrians, and other vehicles. The background image of the virtual space includes background images of various roads such as a background image of an urban area, a background image of an expressway, and a background image of a mountain toll road.

(1. (3) Evaluation monitor device)
Next, the evaluation monitor device 6 will be described with reference to FIG.
As shown in FIG. 3, the evaluation monitor device 6 includes a projector 24 and a flat screen 26. The projector 24 projects the vehicle model onto the flat screen 26 from the back based on the information calculated by the image processing unit 20. Then, a vehicle planner (a person who performs planning vehicle evaluation, operation of the vehicle planning support system, etc.) positioned in front of the flat screen 26 can view a screen 28 displaying those vehicle models. ing. Thereby, the vehicle planner can examine and evaluate the planned vehicle without producing the prototype vehicle by the evaluation monitor device 6.

(1. (4) Position detection device)
Next, the position detection device 7 will be described with reference to FIG.
The position detection device 7 detects the position of the evaluator 700 who views the stereoscopic image displayed on the evaluation monitor device 6. As shown in FIG. 3, the position detection device 7 of the present embodiment includes a position reference mark 720 attached to the evaluator and two position detection cameras 710a and 710b that detect the position of the position reference position mark 720. It is configured. In this embodiment, a fixed position with respect to the position reference mark 720 detected by the position detection cameras 710a and 710b is set as the position of the evaluator's viewpoint.

  In FIG. 3, the position reference mark 720 is displayed in a pin shape for the sake of convenience. As the position reference mark 720, equipment having any suitable shape can be used. For example, a mark may be attached to a head track for viewing stereoscopic images, radio waves may be transmitted, or light may be emitted. FIG. 3 shows an example in which the position detection cameras 710a and 710b are provided, but any suitable equipment can be used as long as the position of the evaluator 700 can be detected.

(2. Planning support program)
Next, an outline of the processing flow by the planning support program 30 and the planning support program in the planning support system will be described.
As shown in FIG. 3, the planning support program 30 includes a model concept program 32 for building a vehicle model of a vehicle to be planned by using vehicle data stored in the database server 4, and model building means. And a simulation program 34 for displaying the vehicle model constructed by the above on the evaluation monitor device 6 as a stereoscopic image.

In the present embodiment, the computer 2 executes processing by the model concept program 32 to construct a vehicle model. Here, the vehicle model is examined and evaluated with respect to packaging or the like that is displayed on the evaluation monitor means and determined by the layout of each part of the planned vehicle. FIG. 4 shows each model included in the vehicle model.
Further, the computer 2 executes processing by the simulation program 34, displays the vehicle model, and evaluates the planned vehicle.

(2.1 Model concept program)
First, the model concept program 32 in the plan support program 30 and vehicle plan support by executing the processing of the program by the computer 2 will be described.
As shown in FIG. 3, the model concept program 32 includes a specification value input program (specific value input screen display program) 36, a vehicle model data generation program 38, and a morphing screen display program 40.
The simulation program 34 includes a simulation image display program 44.

(2.1 (1) Specification value input program)
First, the specification value input program 36 among the concept model programs will be described.
The specification value input program 36 is a program for generating “specific value data” based on the input of the vehicle planner or the like. Here, the “specific value data” refers to specification values such as dimensions for determining the vehicle type and vehicle dimensions of the planned vehicle. The vehicle type refers to a vehicle type such as a sport, a sedan, or a truck.
Then, the vehicle model data for the vehicle model is generated by the vehicle model data generation program described below using the specification value input by the specification value input program 36.

(2.1 (2) Vehicle model data generation program)
Next, the vehicle model data generation program 38 among the model configuration programs will be described.
The vehicle model data generation program 38 generates “vehicle model data” of the planned vehicle based on the specification value data input by the specification input program 36 and the vehicle data stored in the database server 4. It is a program. The vehicle model data is generated, for example, by substituting the specification value data into the vehicle data read out as a template from the database server 4, and is configured by a set of three-dimensional coordinate data, for example. The vehicle model data makes it possible to display a “vehicle model” as a form of the planned vehicle.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the vehicle model data generation program 38 includes a reference model data generation program 46, an appearance model data generation program 48, an appearance part model data generation program 50, an interior model data generation program 52, and an interior part model data generation. A program 54 is included. By executing the processing based on these programs, vehicle model data for the vehicle model of the planned vehicle is generated.

(2.1 (2) (a) Reference model generation program)
By executing the processing by the reference model data generation program 46, reference model data for the reference model 80 is generated based on the reference database 60 stored in the database server 4. The reference model 80 is a model that prescribes basic specification values for packaging such as occupant arrangement in the planned vehicle and the planned vehicle.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the reference model 80 includes a main dimension model 82, an occupant model 84, and an underbody model 86. Of the reference model 80, the individual specifications 82, 84 and 86, or the reference model 80 which is a combination of these models 82, 84 and 86, packaging of passengers and other basic specifications of the vehicle. The value can be reviewed and evaluated.

  Here, FIG. 5A shows a display example of the main dimension model 82. The main dimension model 82 is a model related to the outer frame 82a of the vehicle, the ground (corresponding to the ground) 82b, the wheel 82c, and the like. It is prescribed.

  Next, a display example of the occupant model 84 is shown in FIG. The occupant model 84 is a model related to the occupant mannequin 84a, the steering 84b, the pedal 84c, the visibility condition 84d, and the like.

  The occupant mannequin 84a is for examining the occupant arrangement and posture, and has a certain shape and size according to domestic and foreign standards. The occupant mannequin 84a is defined by various dimensions and angle specifications for specifying the occupant arrangement and posture. The specifications include, for example, the position of the top of the head and the heel with respect to the hip point, the distance between the occupants in the second row of the front row, and the like. In addition, the relative distance between each part is also contained in a dimension here.

  The steering 84b and the pedal 84c are for studying their arrangement with respect to the occupant, and their shapes and dimensions are constant. The steering 84b and the pedal 84c are defined by, for example, specifications of the relative distance and angle with respect to their hip points or heels. The visual field condition 84d is defined by specifications such as an angle that extends vertically from the eye point to both the front and rear of the vehicle.

  Next, FIG. 5C shows a display example of the underbody model. The underbody model 86 is a model related to the lower structure of the vehicle body such as the dash panel 86a, the floor panel 86b, and the side sill 86c. The underbody model 86 is defined by various values such as the dimensions and angles of several panels constituting the dash panel 86a and the floor panel 86b, and the dimensions of the side sill 86c.

(2.1 (2) (b) Appearance model data generation program)
Further, by executing the process by the appearance model data generation program 52, appearance model data for the appearance model 90 is generated based on the appearance database 62 stored in the database server 4. The appearance model 90 is a model that defines an appearance image of the planned vehicle. The appearance model 90 includes an exterior model 92 as shown in FIG.

  The appearance model 90 can be used to examine the appearance image of the planned vehicle. Further, by combining the appearance model 90 with the reference model 80, the packaging of the arc dwelling space or the like of the vehicle can be examined in more detail.

  Here, a display example of the exterior model 92 is shown in FIG. The exterior model 92 is a model related to a vehicle outer plate including a bumper and a bonnet. The exterior model 92 is defined by specification values of various dimensions and angles regarding the outer shape of the vehicle. The specification values include, for example, a wheel base, a front overhang, a rear overhang, a position of a cowl point, a roof top height, an inclination angle of a pillar portion, and the like.

(2.1 (2) (c) Appearance part model data generation program)
Further, by executing the process by the appearance part model data generation program 100, appearance part model data for the appearance part model 100 is generated based on the appearance part database 64 stored in the database server 4. The exterior part model 100 is a model that individually defines the shape and arrangement of doors and window glass that constitute part of the exterior of the planned vehicle. As shown in FIG. 4, the exterior part model 100 includes a door model 102 and a glass model 104.

  Here, display examples of the door model 102 are shown in FIGS. The door model 102 is a model related to the opening flange 102a of the front and rear doors, the outer plate and sash 102b of the front and rear side doors, and the outer plate and sash 102c of the lift gate. Moreover, the example of a display of the glass model 104 is shown in FIG.7 (b)-FIG.7 (d). The glass model 104 is a model regarding each glass of a front window, a front quarter window, a side window, a rear quarter window, and a rear window. These models are defined by various values of dimensions and angles relating to their shapes and arrangements.

  By using the door model 102 and the glass model 104, the shape and arrangement of doors and window glass that constitute a part of the appearance can be individually examined. Furthermore, by combining the appearance part model 100 with the appearance model 90, the appearance image of the vehicle and the like can be examined in more detail.

(2.1 (2) (d) Interior model data generation program)
Further, by executing the processing by the interior model data generation program 52, interior model data for the interior model 110 is generated based on the interior database 66 stored in the database server 4. The interior model 110 is a model that defines various dimensions and angles relating to the shape and arrangement of trims, top ceilings, and the like that constitute the interior of the planned vehicle. As shown in FIG. 4, the interior model 110 includes an upper interior model 112 and a lower interior model 114.

Here, a display example of the interior model 110 is shown in FIG. The interior model 110 is a model relating to the pillar trim 112a and the top sealing (roof header, roof rail, and roof trim) 112b.
Further, FIG. 8B shows a display example of the lower interior model 112. The lower interior model 114 is a model related to the front and rear door and lift gate trim 114a, the cowl side trim 114b, the B pillar lower trim 114c, the rear side trim 114d, and the scuff plate 114e.

(2.1 (2) (e) Interior part model data generation program)
Further, by executing the processing by the interior part model data generation program 54, interior part model data for the interior part model 120 is generated based on the interior part database 68 stored in the database server 4. The interior part model 120 is a model that defines various numerical values and angles relating to the arrangement and shape of the instrument panel, console, and seat that constitute a part of the interior of the planned vehicle.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the interior part model 120 includes an instrument panel model 122, a console model 124, and a seat model 126. The instrument panel model 122 and the console model 124 are defined by specification value data of dimensions and angles relating to their arrangement. The seat model 126 is defined by specification value data of dimensions (distances) and angle specifications relating to sheet arrangement, sheet width, headless vertical position, seat back angle, and the like.

  Here, FIG. 9 shows a display example of these models. The instrument panel model 122, the console model 124, and the seat model 126 are models relating to an instrument panel including a dashboard, a console continuous with the instrument panel, and a plurality of seats. These models are for examining the arrangement in the passenger compartment, and have a certain shape.

In carrying out the processing by the vehicle model data generation program 38 described above, each model data generation program 46 to 54 can generate each vehicle model independently of each other and can be studied. For example, the overall size of the vehicle can be examined by the main dimension model 82, the interior space of the vehicle can be examined by the occupant model 84, and the appearance image of the vehicle can be examined separately by the exterior model 92. .
Next, as shown in FIG. 10, by displaying these models in an overlapping manner, the interference state and the like of each other can be visually confirmed.

In the example shown in FIG. 10, a part of the space area (the hatched portion in the figure) indicating the range in which the occupant's head of the occupant model 84 moves protrudes from the roof of the appearance model. Therefore, the vehicle planner reexamines each vehicle model by making adjustments such as lowering the hip point of the occupant model and raising the roof height of the exterior model in order to eliminate such interference. be able to.
Such adjustment of the vehicle model can be easily performed by a morphing screen display program described below.

(2.1 (3) Morphing screen display program)
Next, the morphing screen display program among the model concept programs will be described.
The morphing screen display program is a program for displaying a vehicle model on the screen of the display unit 18 based on the model data generated by the vehicle model data generation program 38 and transforming the vehicle model while displaying the vehicle model. is there. As shown in FIG. 3, the morphing screen display program includes a three-dimensional morphing screen display program 58 and a two-dimensional morphing screen display program 56.

(2.1 (3) (a) 3D morphing screen display program)
By executing processing by the three-dimensional morphing screen display program 58 on the computer, the three-dimensional morphing screen is displayed.
Here, FIGS. 11 and 12 show display examples of the three-dimensional morphing screen. As shown in FIG. 11, on the three-dimensional morphing screen, a three-dimensional shape of the vehicle model viewed from an arbitrary viewpoint can be displayed so as to produce a perspective according to the viewpoint. Further, as shown in FIG. 10, individual vehicle models such as the appearance model 90 and the occupant model 84 may be arbitrarily combined and displayed, or the individual vehicle models may be displayed separately.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 12, on the three-dimensional morphing screen, the passenger compartment 84, the interior models 112 and 114, and the interior part models 122 and 126 are displayed along the cross section in the vehicle width direction of the vehicle model. It can also be made.

Then, on the three-dimensional morphing screen shown in FIG. 11, the displayed vehicle model is indicated by a circle in the figure, and by dragging a specification point that is the starting point of the size and angle of each part, the shape of each part and The arrangement can be changed. The changed specification value is automatically formed and reflected in the specification value data.
In FIG. 11, only a part of the specification points as indicated by “A” are displayed.

  The vehicle model that can be displayed on this 3D morphing screen displays all 3D values in order to display 3D shapes, and in order to maintain consistency in shape and arrangement when deformed, All the associated rule data is incorporated and displayed. For this reason, when an arbitrary specification point is dragged with the mouse, the dimension and angle starting from the specification point are changed, and all other related dimensions and angles that are ruled are also changed in conjunction. As a result, the vehicle model can be deformed while maintaining the consistency of the shape and arrangement of each part.

  For example, in the exterior model 92 that represents the outer shape, when the roof length is changed, the angle of the pillar portion is also changed in conjunction with the roof so as to maintain the connection with the roof, and the upper portion that represents the interior is also changed. The length of the top ceiling (ceiling lining) of the interior model 112 is also changed. Such rule data is set differently for each vehicle type such as a minivan or a sedan. For example, when the front edge of the roof is moved rearward, in the minivan, the bonnet extends rearward while maintaining the angle of the front pillar, while in the sports type, the inclination angle of the front pillar is reduced. .

  In this way, on the 3D morphing screen, the vehicle planner can easily grasp the overall image of the vehicle shape, and variously change the vehicle shape sensuously while viewing the 3D image of the vehicle model. A vehicle can be planned with deformation.

(2.1 (3) (b) 2D morphing screen display program)
In addition, a two-dimensional morphing screen is displayed by executing processing based on the two-dimensional morphing screen display program on the computer. On the two-dimensional morphing screen, a vehicle model (two-dimensional vehicle model) in which only a specification value relating to a main section and a predetermined cross section when the vehicle is viewed from the side, a plane, or the front is selectively displayed.

  Here, FIG. 13 shows a display example of a two-dimensional morphing screen. (A)-(c) of Drawing 13 is an example of a side view display, a top view display, and a front view display of a two-dimensional morphing screen, respectively. On these two-dimensional morphing screens, a predetermined cross section and a main shape of the vehicle model are displayed as straight lines or curves (morphing shape display). For example, in FIG. 13 (a), as the morphing shape display in the side view chart, the main shapes such as the shape of the roof and cowl appearing on the cross section of the vehicle intermediate surface, and the beltline shape characterizing the side shape are displayed in bold lines. ing.

  Further, for the specification values related to the shape displayed in the morphing shape, specification items, specification values, and dimension lines that define them are displayed (specification value display). For example, in FIG. 13A, “Wheel base”, “***”, etc. are displayed as the specification items, and “2400”, “...”, Etc. are displayed as the specification values. .

  In this way, on the two-dimensional morphing screen, the vehicle planner can display the dimension line and directly enter the numerical values of the dimensions and angles, and change the shape. It is easy to determine which specifications should be dragged. In addition, an overall image of the vehicle shape can be easily grasped, and the vehicle can be planned by variously changing the vehicle shape sensuously while viewing the three-dimensional image of the vehicle model.

(2.2 Simulation program)
Next, the simulation program 34 in the plan support program 30 shown in FIG. 3 will be described. The simulation program 34 is a program for causing the evaluation monitor device 6 to stereoscopically display the vehicle model based on the vehicle model data.

  FIG. 14 shows a functional block diagram corresponding to the simulation program 34. In this functional block diagram, processing by the simulation program 34 is executed in the computer 2 to generate a stereoscopic image in which the constructed vehicle model is combined with a background image of a virtual space constituted by virtual space data stored in a database server. A function to be displayed on the evaluation monitor device 6 is expressed as a simulation unit 220. Further, a function of executing a process by the model concept program 30 and constructing a vehicle model of a vehicle to be planned using the vehicle data stored in the database server is represented as a model constructing unit 210.

  As shown in FIG. 14, the simulation unit 220 includes an operation mode image generation unit 222 that generates a vehicle model and a background image viewed from a fixed reference point of the driver seat of the vehicle model as an operation mode image, and a position detection device 7. The detected vehicle model and the background image viewed from the position of the evaluator 700 are displayed on the evaluation mode monitor device 6 and the preview mode image generation unit 224 that generates a preview mode image in accordance with the movement of the position of the evaluator 700. A display mode switching unit 226 that switches an image to be operated between the operation mode image and the sketch mode image.

  The function of the operation mode image generation unit 222 is realized by executing processing by the operation mode image generation program 71 on the computer 2. In addition, the sketch mode image generation unit 224 is realized by executing processing by the preview mode image generation program 73 on the computer 2. Furthermore, the function of the display mode switching unit 226 is also realized by executing the processing by the display mode switching program 75 on the computer 2. Note that the display mode switching instruction to the display mode switching unit 226 may be performed by the input unit 16 (see FIG. 1) of the computer 2, for example.

Here, FIG. 15 shows, as an example of the operation mode image, an image obtained when the vehicle model travels on a road in an urban area in the virtual space as viewed from the driver's viewpoint. With such an image, the vehicle planner evaluates the visibility such as visibility from the driver's seat, the feeling of pressure felt by the driver, and the appearance of the vehicle combined with the background image. In the operation mode image shown in FIG. 15, an image viewed from the fixed viewpoint (eye point) of the driver is displayed so that the evaluation does not vary by the evaluator.
In addition, although the stereoscopic video is displayed on the evaluation monitor device 6, in the drawings showing the simulation image including FIG. 15, a plane image is shown for convenience.

  In this embodiment, since the display mode switching unit 226 is provided in the simulation unit 220, the display image can be easily switched between the operation mode image and the preview mode image.

  Here, FIG. 16 shows an example of the sketch mode image. In the sketching mode image shown in FIG. 16, the appearance of the interior of the vehicle model is omitted, and the state in which the interior of the vehicle interior is looked down from above the vehicle model is displayed. By displaying such a sketch mode image, it is possible to easily evaluate the size of the passenger compartment in the evaluation of the package.

  In the sketch evaluation mode for displaying the sketch mode image, the evaluator's viewpoint can be set at any position inside and outside the vehicle model. Thus, for example, in the sketch evaluation mode, various display mode switching screens as shown in FIG. 17 are displayed on the display unit 18 (see FIG. 1) of the computer 2 so that the approximate position of the viewpoint can be selected. Can be displayed. When the interior evaluation mode in FIG. 17 is selected, a preview mode image of the vehicle interior of the vehicle model viewed from the inside of the vehicle model is displayed. When the exterior evaluation mode is selected, a preview mode image of the appearance of the vehicle model viewed from the outside of the vehicle model is displayed.

  Here, FIGS. 18A and 18B show display examples of the sketch mode image in the interior evaluation mode. FIG. 18A is an image showing a state in which an oblique rearward view of the passenger compartment is viewed from the vicinity of the passenger seat. FIG. 18B is an image showing a state in which the rear of the passenger compartment is viewed from the vicinity of the dashboard.

  When the evaluator 700 moves, for example, to the right side with respect to the screen 26, the viewpoint of the display image also moves to the right side. That is, in conjunction with the movement of the evaluator 700, the displayed vehicle model rotates by an angle corresponding to the amount of movement. As a result, the appearance of the vehicle model in the preview mode image is closer to the actual appearance of the vehicle, so that the discomfort felt by the evaluator is reduced. As a result, it is possible to more accurately evaluate the vehicle model.

  Note that the position detection device 7 detects not only the position of the evaluator but also the direction of the evaluator's line of sight, and displays the screen so as to match the direction of the line of sight corresponding to the direction of the evaluator's line of sight. It is desirable to change.

  Incidentally, in the evaluation monitor device 6 of the present embodiment, the image 28 is projected onto the flat screen 26 by the projector 24 (see FIG. 3). For this reason, even if the evaluator goes around to the back side of the screen 26, the back side of the vehicle model cannot be displayed in conjunction. Therefore, in this embodiment, the direction of the vehicle model displayed on the evaluation monitor device 6 is switched by selecting an arbitrary evaluation mode from the selection screen shown in FIG. That is, when the front evaluation mode, the rear evaluation mode, or the side evaluation mode shown in FIG. 17 is selected, the front, rear, or side preview mode images of the vehicle model are displayed, respectively.

  Here, FIGS. 19A and 19B show display examples of the sketch mode image in the exterior evaluation mode. FIG. 19A is a display example of a vehicle model when the front evaluation mode is selected. FIG. 19B is a display example of the vehicle model when the rear evaluation mode is selected.

  Regardless of which evaluation mode is selected, the preview mode image changes in conjunction with the vertical, horizontal and perspective movements of the position of the evaluator 700 relative to the evaluation monitor device 6. In other words, since the display image changes in accordance with the viewpoint movement of the evaluator, the evaluator rarely feels uncomfortable with the simulation image, and therefore more accurate evaluation can be performed.

  Furthermore, if the turntable mode is selected on the mode switching screen shown in FIG. 17, for example, the vehicle model in the sketch mode image shown in FIG. 19A or 19B is rotated in the horizontal plane in the virtual space. Can be displayed. As a result, it is possible to perform the evaluation by looking at the turntable mode image displayed on the evaluation monitor device 6 as in the case where the evaluation is performed while the real vehicle is placed on the turntable and rotated.

In each embodiment mentioned above, although the example which constituted the present invention on specific conditions was explained, the present invention can perform various change and combination, and is not limited to this.
In the present invention, the means does not necessarily mean a physical means, but includes cases where the functions of the means are realized by software. Further, the function of one physical means may be realized by two or more physical means, and the function of two or more physical means may be realized by one physical means.

It is a block diagram which shows the basic composition of the vehicle plan assistance system in embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the structure of the plan support program of the vehicle plan support system in embodiment, the structure of a database, and the conceptual flow of data. It is a perspective view which shows the basic composition of the monitor apparatus for evaluation of the vehicle plan assistance system in embodiment. It is a figure for demonstrating each model contained in the vehicle model in embodiment. (A) is a figure which shows an example of the main dimension model of a reference | standard model, (b) is a figure which shows an example of the passenger | crew model of a reference | standard model, (c) is an example of the underbody model of a reference | standard model FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the exterior model of an external appearance model. It is a figure which shows an example of the door model (ac) of an external appearance part model, and a glass model (d). (A) is a figure which shows an example of the upper interior model of an interior model, (b) is a figure which shows an example of the lower interior model of an interior model. It is a figure which shows an example of an instrument panel model of an interior part model, a console model, and a seat model. It is a figure which shows an example of the vehicle model which combined the passenger | crew model, the external appearance model, and the interior model. It is an example of the three-dimensional morphing screen which displays a vehicle model. It is an example of the three-dimensional morphing screen which displays the vehicle interior of a vehicle model. (A) is an example of a side view display of a two-dimensional morphing screen displaying a vehicle model, (b) is an example of the plan view display, and (c) is an example of the front view display. . 3 is a functional block diagram corresponding to a simulation program 34. FIG. It is a figure which shows the simulation image which looked at the mode that the vehicle model drive | works on the road of a city area from the viewpoint of a driving | running | working area in virtual space. It is a display example of an outline mode image. It is an example of the selection screen for display mode switching. (A) And (b) is a display example of the sketch mode image for interior evaluation. (A) And (b) is a display example of the sketch mode image for exterior evaluation.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Vehicle plan support system 2 Computer 4 Database server 6 Evaluation monitor device 7 Position detection device 30 Plan support program 32 Model concept program 34 Simulation program 36 Specification value input program 38 Vehicle model data generation program 40 Morphing screen display program 71 Operation mode Image generation program 73 Outline mode image generation program 75 Display mode switching program 210 Model construction unit 220 Simulation unit 222 Background image selection unit 224 Background image correction unit 226 Image composition display unit 228 Car interior image correction units 710a and 710b Position detection camera 720 Position Reference mark

Claims (4)

A vehicle planning support system that supports vehicle planning by displaying a vehicle model on a screen,
A database server storing vehicle data and virtual space data;
Model construction means for constructing a vehicle model of a vehicle to be planned using the vehicle data stored in the database server;
Simulation means for generating a stereoscopic image obtained by synthesizing a vehicle model constructed by the model construction means and a background image of a virtual space configured by virtual space data stored in the database server;
An evaluation monitor device for displaying a stereoscopic image generated by the simulation means;
A position detection device for detecting a position of an evaluator who views a stereoscopic image displayed on the evaluation monitor device;
Have
The simulation means includes
An operation mode image generating means for generating a vehicle model and a background image viewed from a fixed reference point of a driver seat of the vehicle model as an operation mode image;
A sketch mode image generating means for generating a vehicle model and a background image viewed from the position of the evaluator detected by the position detection device as a preview mode image according to the movement of the position of the evaluator;
Display mode switching means for switching an image to be displayed on the display screen between the operation mode image and the sketch mode image;
A vehicle planning support system characterized by comprising:   2. The vehicle planning support system according to claim 1, wherein the display mode switching means switches a direction of a vehicle model displayed on the evaluation monitor device.   The vehicle planning support system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the preview mode image generation means changes the preview mode image in accordance with movement of the evaluator's position in the vertical direction, the horizontal direction, and the perspective direction with respect to the evaluation monitor device. .   The vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the sketch mode image generation means generates a turntable mode image for displaying the vehicle model in the sketch mode image by rotating it in a horizontal plane in the virtual space. Planning support system.

Images