JP2007075342A - Nap prevention device for vehicle and nap prevention method - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To effectively prevent a driver from napping by getting rid of sleepiness and tedious state of the driver by giving optimum stimulation to the driver even in a situation that the driver begins to be aware of sleepiness and a situation that the driver tries to overcome the sleepiness. <P>SOLUTION: When the degree of awakening of the driver is determined to decline or is feared to decline from the detection result of a consciousness state detection device 1, an information device 2 performs information by urging the driver to move legs. Also, a leg movement state monitor device 4 monitors the leg movement state of the driver responding to the information by this information device 2, and a control device 5 controls the content of the information by the information device 2 on the basis of the detection result by the consciousness state detection device 1 and the monitoring result by the leg movement state monitor device 4. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2007,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a vehicle doze prevention device and a doze prevention method for preventing a driver of a vehicle from falling asleep.

  In recent years, research and development projects for improving the safety of vehicles called “Advanced Safety Vehicles” (ASVs) have been promoted, and one of them is to prevent the driver of the vehicle from falling asleep. Devices have been developed. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses an alarm for performing a determination of an arousal state based on a driver's heart rate data and an awakening state based on the steering angle data of the vehicle, and issuing a doze alarm according to these determination results. A vehicle doze prevention device is described which controls the operation of the means.

In the vehicle doze prevention device described in Patent Document 1, based on the fact that the decrease in the driver's arousal level changes with time, the determination of the driver's arousal state based on heart rate data and steering By correlating the determination of the driver's arousal level based on the angle data, even if the vehicle continues to be driven after the sign of a decrease in the arousal level, it is possible to perform a detailed determination of the arousal state. This makes it possible to issue an alarm at an appropriate level according to the driver's arousal state. Further, in the vehicle doze prevention device described in Patent Document 1, the operation of a plurality of warning means is controlled in a stepwise manner according to the driver's reaction, thereby encouraging improvement of the driver's arousal level. Is possible.
Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 6-197888

  However, in the conventional vehicle dozing prevention device described in Patent Document 1 described above, the determination result of the driver's arousal state is obtained using alarm means such as tactile alarm means, visual alarm means, and auditory alarm means. By issuing warnings at appropriate levels, the driver's arousal level is encouraged to improve.For example, in situations where the driver is becoming aware of drowsiness or is trying to overcome the drowsiness However, there is a problem that the acceptability of the alarm itself is low. That is, in such a situation, even if a state in which the driver's arousal level is slightly decreased is detected and a sound is generated with a soft warning sound, for example, by changing the volume or sound quality, the driver is still at that level of arousal level. Since he / she is aware that he / she is sleepy, the meaning of notifying the driver of a decrease in the degree of arousal by the warning is insignificant, and it cannot be said to be a sufficient stimulus for eliminating sleepiness. In addition, if a audible alarm sound like an alarm clock is emitted at this arousal level, it can be expected to improve the driver's arousal level, but the driver's awareness is still clear, so It will make you feel bothered.

  The present invention was devised in view of the conventional situation as described above, and in the situation where the driver is beginning to be aware of drowsiness and the situation where the driver is trying to overcome the drowsiness, It is an object of the present invention to provide a vehicle doze prevention device and a doze prevention method capable of effectively preventing the driver's drowsiness by giving an optimal stimulus to eliminate the driver's drowsiness and boredom.

  The present invention provides a notification for encouraging the driver's leg movement when the driver's consciousness state is detected and it is determined that the arousal level is likely to decrease or decrease, and the driver responding to the notification The leg movement state is monitored, and the content of the notification is controlled based on at least one of the detection result of the driver's consciousness state and the monitoring result of the leg movement state.

  According to the present invention, since the driver's leg movement is promoted when the driver's arousal level is likely to decrease or decrease, many nerves for controlling the balance and movement of the body are connected to the brain. By transmitting the exercise of the muscles of the connected legs to the driver's brain as a strong stimulus, the driver's brain can be activated, and the driver's drowsiness and boredom can be eliminated to effectively prevent snoozing Can do.

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

[Outline of the present invention]
First, an outline of the present invention will be described. The vehicle drowsiness prevention apparatus according to the present invention eliminates drowsiness and boredom by causing the driver to exercise his / her leg when it is determined that the driver's arousal level is likely to be reduced or lowered. In this way, the driver can keep driving with a moderate tension at all times to effectively prevent the driver from falling asleep.

  Here, the process in which the driver of the vehicle falls into a drowsy driving, the driver's consciousness state and action in the process, how the driver feels about the alarm, and the appropriate action in response to them will be described with reference to FIG. To do.

  The graph of FIG. 1 illustrates the state in which the driver's arousal level changes from a high state to a low state in time series. Normally, in the process where the driver falls asleep and falls into the driving state, the state in which the arousal level becomes a very low level continues while the awakening level is repeatedly lowered and returned.

  For example, when a vehicle is traveling on an expressway, for example, the speed of the vehicle is high, so the range that can be visually recognized by the driver is narrowed, and the line of sight movement is reduced. In addition, the frequency of operation of the steering, accelerator, brake, etc. is less than when driving on ordinary roads. In this way, the expressway is a driving environment with less irritation compared to ordinary roads, and if the time spent traveling on the expressway becomes longer, the monotonousness causes the driver to gradually drive the vehicle. You begin to feel bored (driving bored zone). After that, when the time when the driver feels bored continues, the driver feels a little sleepy (drowsiness awareness zone).

  At this stage, the driver thinks that there is no problem with driving, and even if there is a service area or a parking area, the driver does not want to stop the vehicle and take a break. Thereafter, when this state continues for a while, the driver starts to feel uneasy about continuing driving. At this stage, the driver tries to overcome the drowsiness by yawning, rubbing his eyes, opening the window, etc. (fighting zone with drowsiness).

  However, when driving on a highway or the like, it is impossible to immediately stop the vehicle, take a break, and refresh, so the driver will continue to drive while struggling with sleepiness. . If this time continues to some extent, it becomes a dozing state in which consciousness called micro sleep is lost for several seconds (a dozing zone). It is difficult for a driver in this state to awaken the driver without feeling uncomfortable, and it is necessary to give a very strong stimulus accompanied by discomfort.

  As described above, if the driver's consciousness is in the dozing zone, a warning that is a strong stimulus for the driver is effective, and such a warning is accepted by the driver. However, if the driver's consciousness is in a driving boredom zone where they feel bored driving, a sleepiness awareness zone where they have become aware of sleepiness, or a sleepiness zone where they are trying to overcome sleepiness, Strong stimulus alerts aimed at waking up the driver are often not very appreciated by the driver. In other words, when the driver's consciousness is in the dozing hazard zone, passive alarms are easily accepted by the driver, but in the driving boredom zone, sleepiness awareness zone, and sleepiness fighting zone, An active stimulus that causes the driver to act on his / her own can be expected to have a greater arousal effect, and an unpleasant feeling due to an excessive stimulus warning can be suppressed.

  From this point of view, in the vehicle doze prevention device according to the present invention, the driver is active when the driver's consciousness is in the three zones of the driving boredom zone, the sleepiness awareness zone, and the sleepiness fighting zone. Information for requesting the driver to exercise the leg when the driver's consciousness state is detected so that the driver can be stimulated and it is determined that the driver's arousal level is likely to decrease or decrease. ). When the driver's consciousness is in one of three zones: driving boredom zone, sleepiness awareness zone, and sleepiness fighting zone, that is, when the driver's arousal level may decrease or decrease, To do this, the nerves that control the balance and movement of the body have many nerves connected to the brain. It can be said that it is very effective in restoring the awakening level.

  As a method for detecting the driver's consciousness state, for example, the method shown in FIG. These detection methods detect the wakefulness level obtained by leveling the driver's wakefulness as the driver's consciousness state, but each of these detection methods has characteristics (merits and demerits). In order to increase detection accuracy and detection reliability, it is desirable to combine a plurality of detection methods. FIG. 3 shows the relationship between the effective detection range in which the arousal level, which is one of the characteristics, can be accurately detected, and each detection method.

  The method of using a biological signal to sense the driver himself is awakened in a wide range from the driver's sleep state to the relaxed state to the tension state by using brain waves, heartbeat, skin potential, etc. The degree level can be detected. Further, in the method of detecting the degree of arousal from the change in the open / closed state of the eye by sensing the driver's face image and performing image recognition processing of the face image to sense the driver himself, the driver's tension Although it cannot handle detection from relax to bored state, it captures sleepiness from the stage when the driver is aware of drowsiness by capturing the long closed eyes that occur from normal blinking to slow blinking and in microsleep state. The driver's arousal level can be detected in a stepwise manner until the fighting stage and the final stage of the dozing state.

  On the other hand, in the detection method that indirectly detects the driver's arousal level from the driving operation of the vehicle or the behavior of the vehicle by the driver, the detection itself is relatively simple compared to the case of sensing the driver himself. It is possible to estimate that the driver is in a bored state by detecting that the amount of driving operation is reduced, the frequency of operation is reduced, or that a constant speed running state is continued by a vehicle speed signal. In addition, it can be detected from the steering operation pattern and the meandering state that the driver's arousal level is considerably lowered. However, with these detection methods, it is difficult to capture the driver's arousal level in a stepwise and continuous manner.

  In addition, for the detection method that indirectly detects the driver's arousal level from the driving environment and driving conditions, it detects the situation where a drowsy driving is likely to occur. However, it is considered unsuitable for detecting other consciousness states.

  As described above, each detection method shown in FIG. 2 and FIG. 3 has advantages and disadvantages. By combining these detection methods to compensate for the disadvantages of each detection method, It becomes possible to detect a person's consciousness state accurately in a wide range. From such a point of view, the vehicle doze prevention device according to the present invention detects the driver's consciousness state by combining the above-described detection methods. Then, when it is determined that the driver's arousal level is likely to decrease or decrease (the driver's consciousness is in the above-described driving boredom zone, sleepiness awareness zone, or sleepiness fighting zone), Information is given to encourage leg movement. Further, in the vehicle doze prevention device according to the present invention, the state of the driver's leg motion in response to such information is monitored, and based on the detection result of the driver's consciousness state and the monitoring result of the leg motion state. By controlling the content of the information, the driver can be optimally stimulated.

[First Embodiment]
FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the first embodiment of the vehicle dozing prevention apparatus according to the present invention.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the vehicle doze prevention device according to the present embodiment includes a consciousness state detection device 1 for detecting the consciousness state of the driver of the vehicle, and information for prompting the driver of the vehicle to exercise a leg. Information device 2 to be performed, pressure sensor 3 for detecting a leg motion by a vehicle driver as a stepping force, a leg motion state monitor device 4 for monitoring a leg motion state by a vehicle driver, and information by the information device 2 And a control device 5 for controlling the contents of the.

  The consciousness state detection device 1 detects the consciousness state of the driver of the vehicle by a combination of the various detection methods described above, and includes a biological signal measurement unit 1a, a face image recognition unit 1b, a driving operation measurement unit 1c, and a vehicle behavior. It has a measuring unit 1d and an operating environment measuring unit 1e. The biological signal measuring unit 1a detects the driver's arousal level by detecting the driver's biological signals such as brain waves, heartbeats, and skin potential. Further, the face image recognition unit 1b captures the driver's face image, performs image recognition processing on the face image, and detects the driver's arousal level from the change in the open / closed state of the driver's eyes. In addition, the driving operation measuring unit 1c detects a steering operation, an accelerator operation, a braking operation, and the like by the driver, and indirectly detects the driver's arousal level from a change in the amount of the driving operation. Further, the vehicle behavior measuring unit 1d detects the vehicle behavior by detecting the vehicle speed, lateral G, yaw rate, etc. of the vehicle, and indirectly detects the driver's arousal level from the change in the vehicle behavior. In addition, the driving environment measurement unit 1e indirectly detects the driver's arousal level by detecting a driving environment or a driving state in which a drowsy driving is likely to occur from the driving duration or time. In the consciousness state detection device 1, the driver's arousal level can be accurately determined in a wide range by comprehensively determining the detection results in the above-described units.

  Note that the consciousness state detection device 1 does not necessarily have to include all the above-described units, and may detect the driver's consciousness state with only a part, but as described above, as many detection methods as possible are used. It is advantageous to improve the detection accuracy to combine the disadvantages of the respective detection methods in combination.

  The information device 2 performs information for encouraging the driver's leg movement when it is determined from the detection result of the consciousness state detection device 1 that the driver's arousal level is lowered or may be lowered. For example, information is configured by turning on the indicator lamp 2a and outputting sound from the buzzer 2b. Specifically, the information device 2 requests the driver to perform a leg motion in accordance with the lighting pattern of the indicator lamp 2a controlled by the control device 5 and the sound output pattern from the buzzer 2b. The lighting pattern of the indicator lamp 2a and the sound output pattern from the buzzer 2b are determined by the control device 5 based on the detection result of the consciousness state detection device 2 and the monitoring result of the leg motion state by the leg motion state monitor device 4. Be controlled. The information device 2 having such an indicator light 2a and a buzzer 2b has a vehicle cockpit module 101 as shown in FIG. 5, for example, in order to make it easier for the driver to notice the output information even when the vehicle is running. It is installed at a position where the driver can confirm from the front gaze point with as little gaze movement as possible, such as near the boundary with the windshield on the upper surface side.

  Note that the configuration of the information device 2 is not limited to the example given here, and any configuration may be used as long as the configuration can provide information for prompting the driver to exercise the leg. For example, the information device 2 may perform some display on the windshield surface using a head-up display instead of the indicator lamp 2a, and even in a configuration using such a head-up display, The driver can check the information with a small line of sight movement.

  The pressure sensor 3 detects a leg motion by a driver of the vehicle as a stepping force, and is attached to a left foot placement surface of a vehicle structure on which the driver's left foot is placed, for example. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 6, for example, the pressure sensor 3 is located on the left side of the accelerator pedal 102 or the brake pedal 103 operated by the driver with the right foot and is generally installed in many vehicles. A sheet-like sensor is attached to the upper surface of the left footrest 104. The driver of the vehicle who received the information from the information device 2 responded to the information from the information device 2 by performing the operation of stepping on the left foot on the pressure sensor 3 attached to the upper surface of the footrest 104 for the left foot. The driver's leg movement is detected by the pressure sensor 3 as a stepping force.

  In addition, as a place where the pressure sensor 3 is attached, for example, in a vehicle in which the footrest 104 for the left foot is not provided, the floor surface at the position where the driver's left foot is placed may be used. A structure for placing the left foot may be provided separately, and the pressure sensor 3 may be attached to the left foot placement surface of the structure. However, if the foot sensor 104 for the left foot already installed in the vehicle or the pressure sensor 3 is attached to the floor surface, the driver's leg movement can be detected without changing the current driving operation system. It is desirable to attach the pressure sensor 3 to such a place from the viewpoint of influence and cost.

  The leg motion state monitoring device 4 reads the detection value of the pressure sensor 3 and monitors the leg motion state by the vehicle driver in response to the information from the information device 2. Specifically, the leg movement state monitoring device 4 is detected by the pressure sensor 3 with respect to the lighting time and lighting timing of the indicator lamp 2a of the information device 2 or the sound output time and output timing of the buzzer 2b. Monitor the state of the driver's depression time and depression timing. Then, the monitoring result is supplied to the control device 5.

  The control device 5 controls the content of information by the information device 2 based on the detection result of the consciousness state detection device 2 and the monitoring result of the leg motion state by the leg motion state monitor device 4. Here, the content of information by the information device 2 controlled by the control device 5 is the lighting pattern (lighting time, lighting interval) of the indicator lamp 2a corresponding to the pattern of the leg motion requested to the driver described above, In addition to the sound output pattern (output time, output interval) from the buzzer 2b, the lighting color of the indicator lamp 2a, sound volume, tone color, and the like are included. Based on the detection result of the consciousness state detection device 2 and the monitoring result of the leg motion state by the leg motion state monitor device 4, the control device 5 determines the lighting pattern, the lighting color, and the buzzer 2b of the information lamp 2a of these information devices 2. By controlling the voice output pattern, volume, timbre, etc., it is possible to perform optimal stimulus information according to the driver's consciousness state.

  FIG. 7 summarizes how the control device 5 controls the content of information by the information device 2 according to the driver's consciousness state, and FIG. 8 shows the driver's consciousness state. This is a summary of what kind of leg movement is required of the driver. In the vehicle doze prevention device of this embodiment, when the driver begins to feel bored in driving, the information device 2 is made to perform information only by turning on the indicator lamp 2a. This is because at the stage where the driver begins to feel bored, the driver's arousal level has not decreased so much and the arousal level is relatively high, so that the driver does not feel uncomfortable. This is because it is considered effective to urge the driver to exercise the leg with stimulation information. In the vehicle doze prevention device of the present embodiment, the information device 2 is caused to perform information that combines the lighting of the indicator lamp 2a and the sound output from the buzzer 2b from the stage where the driver is aware of drowsiness. I have to. This is so that a driver whose consciousness state is lowered can more reliably recognize information that promotes leg movement.

  The indicator lamp 2 a of the information device 2 can change the lighting time, the lighting interval, and the lighting color under the control of the control device 5. And in the stage where the driver begins to feel bored in driving, the control device 5 controls the lighting pattern of the indicator lamp 2a of the information device 2 to be a pattern in which the lighting time is short and the lighting interval is long, The driver is required to exercise the leg in a pattern with a short depression time and a long depression interval. In addition, the lighting color of the indicator lamp 2a is green with low irritation, and accordingly, the driver is required to perform leg exercise with a weak stepping force.

  Further, the control device 5 controls the lighting pattern of the indicator lamp 2a so as to obtain a lighting pattern in which the lighting time is gradually increased and the lighting interval is gradually shortened as the driver's arousal level decreases. On the other hand, the leg motion is required in a pattern in which the stepping time is long and the stepping interval is short. Further, the lighting color of the indicator lamp 2a is changed from a low-stimulus green color to a strong-stimulated color such as yellow or red, and accordingly, the driver is required to perform a leg motion with a strong stepping force. .

  The sound from the buzzer 2b of the information device 2 can be changed in output time, output interval, volume, and tone by the control of the control device 5. Then, the control device 5 changes the output time and output interval of the sound from the buzzer 2b so as to be synchronized with the lighting time and lighting interval of the indicator lamp 2a in accordance with the driver's arousal level. The sound output from the buzzer 2b is performed in an output pattern synchronized with the lighting pattern, and a leg motion according to the output pattern of the sound is requested from the driver. Further, the control device 5 changes the volume and tone color of the sound from the buzzer 2b in accordance with the change in the lighting color of the indicator lamp 2a according to the driver's arousal level, and the stepping force according to this changes. Require a leg movement from the driver.

  FIG. 9 shows how the control device 5 controls the content of the information by the information device 2 in accordance with the monitoring result of the driver's leg movement state in response to the information by the information device 2. The driver's stepping time corresponding to the lighting time of the indicator lamp 2a or the sound output time from the buzzer 2b is focused on.

  In the vehicle doze prevention device of the present embodiment, the control device 5 first determines the lighting time of the indicator lamp 2a of the information device 2 or the output time of the sound from the buzzer 2b from the detection result of the consciousness state detection device 1. A value t1 corresponding to the driver's arousal level is set. When the indicator lamp 2a of the information device 2 is turned on or the sound output from the buzzer 2b is started, the driver starts to step on the pressure sensor 3 in response to this, and the reaction speed at this time is the leg motion state. Monitored by the monitor device 4. As shown in FIG. 9 (a), the reaction speed is from when the indicator lamp 2a is turned on or the sound output from the buzzer 2b is started until the pressure sensor 3 is turned on (the pressure due to depression is detected). It is obtained by measuring the delay time Δt.

  Here, when the driver's reaction speed is not sufficient, that is, when the delay time Δt from when the lighting of the indicator lamp 2a or the sound output from the buzzer 2b is started until the pressure sensor 3 is turned on is long. When the determination is made, the control device 5 determines that the actual arousal level of the driver is lower than the arousal level determined from the detection result of the consciousness state detection device 1, and the lighting time or buzzer of the indicator lamp 2a The audio output time from 2b is changed to a value longer than the initial set value t1. On the other hand, if the driver's reaction speed is sufficient, the driver continues to step on the pressure sensor 3 until the lighting of the indicator lamp 2a or the sound output from the buzzer 2b ends (until time t1 elapses). It is monitored by the leg motion state monitor device 4 whether or not the robot is in motion. As shown in FIG. 9A, if the driver continues to step on the pressure sensor 3 after the time t1 has elapsed, the control device 5 causes the driver to respond to information from the information device 2. Therefore, it is determined that the leg exercise is properly performed, and the lighting of the indicator lamp 2a or the sound output from the buzzer 2b is stopped. Thereafter, the control device 5 starts turning on the next indicator light 2a or outputting sound from the buzzer 2b at intervals corresponding to the driver's consciousness state (arousal level) detected by the consciousness state detection device 1. Let

  On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 9B, the driver stops stepping on the pressure sensor 3 before the lighting of the indicator lamp 2a or the sound output from the buzzer 2b ends (before the time t1 elapses) (pressure sensor). 3 is switched from on to off), the control device 5 continues the lighting of the indicator lamp 2a or the sound output from the buzzer 2b even after the time t1 has elapsed. Then, when the driver resumes stepping on the pressure sensor 3 (the pressure sensor 3 switches from off to on), the time t1 is counted again, and the driver steps on the pressure sensor 3 when the time t1 has elapsed. If it continues, lighting of the indicator lamp 2a or the audio | voice output from the buzzer 2b will be stopped. Thereafter, the control device 5 changes the lighting time of the indicator lamp 2a or the output time of the sound from the buzzer 2b to a value longer than t1, and starts the lighting of the next indicator lamp 2a or the sound output from the buzzer 2b.

  As described above, in the vehicle doze prevention device of the present embodiment, the control device 5 is based on the detection result of the consciousness state detection device 2 and the monitoring result of the leg motion state by the leg motion state monitor device 4. The content of information by is controlled.

  Next, a flow of a series of operations in the vehicle dozing prevention device of the present embodiment configured as described above will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. Note that the processing routine shown in the flowchart of FIG. 10 is repeatedly executed at a predetermined cycle.

  In the vehicle doze prevention device of the present embodiment, first, in step S1, the consciousness state detection device 1 detects the consciousness state of the driver of the vehicle as a wakefulness level. Next, in step S <b> 2, the control device 5 determines based on the detection result of the consciousness state detection device 1 whether or not there is a possibility that the driver's arousal level has decreased or is likely to decrease. It seems that it is preferable to set the arousal level as a criterion for judgment at this time to the stage where the driver begins to feel dull, but it is set to the stage where the driver feels a little lower sleepiness according to the driver's preference. Also good.

  If it is determined in step S2 that the driver's arousal level is not lowered or is not in a state of fear of lowering, the routine exits and returns, and the driver's consciousness state at the next timing is returned. Move on to detection. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S2 that the driver's arousal level has been reduced or is in a state where there is a risk of reduction, in the next step S3, the controller 5 detects the driving detected in step S1. The content of information by the information device 2 is determined according to the person's arousal level. In step S4, the information device 2 performs information for prompting the driver to exercise the leg by turning on the indicator lamp 2a and outputting sound from the buzzer 2b under the control of the control device 5.

  As a specific example, for example, the driver's arousal level detected in step S1 is relatively high, but it is determined that the driver is in a driving bored state in which a future decrease in the arousal level is expected. In this case, in step S3, the control device 5 sets the information by the information device 2 to information only by lighting the indicator lamp 2a, for example, as shown in the A specification shown in FIG. 11, and the lighting color of the indicator lamp 2a is green. The stimulation of information is also reduced by shortening the lighting interval and increasing the lighting interval. Then, the leg motion required by the driver is reduced as the leg motion pattern by the driver as a leg motion pattern with a weak stepping force, a short stepping time, and a long stepping interval as shown in the A specification shown in FIG. .

  Thereafter, in step S4, when the information device 2 starts information of the A specification as described above, the control device 5 starts a timer for measuring the driver's response delay time for the information in step S5. The control device 5 starts the depression of the pressure sensor 3 by the driver before a predetermined time ts1 which is a time sufficient for the driver to determine that the information device 2 does not react to the information. It is determined from the monitoring result of the leg motion state monitor device 4 (step S6, step S7).

  Here, when the driver starts to step on the pressure sensor 3 before the predetermined time ts1 has elapsed, the control device 5 starts the timer when the driver starts to step on the pressure sensor 3 in step S8. In step S9, using the count value of the timer, the reaction time which is the time from when the information by the information device 2 is started until the driver starts to step on the pressure sensor 3 is measured. In step S10, the control device 5 determines whether or not the reaction time measured in step S9 is within a predetermined time ts2, which is a time sufficient to determine that a reaction delay has occurred.

  If the reaction time measured in step S9 is within the predetermined time ts2, the control device 5 resets the timer in step S11 and causes the information device 2 to continue the information determined in step S3. End the routine operation and return. On the other hand, when the reaction time measured in step S9 exceeds the predetermined time ts2, that is, when the driver's reaction is delayed with respect to the information by the information device 2, the control device 5 causes the driver to awaken. After determining that the degree is lower than the determination result in step S2 and resetting the timer in step S12, the content of information by the information device 2 is changed in step S13. Specifically, the control device 5 changes the content of information by the information device 2 from the A specification shown in FIG. 11 to, for example, the B specification shown in FIG. 13 to slightly increase the information stimulus and ask the driver. The leg motion is changed from the A specification shown in FIG. 12 to the B specification leg motion pattern shown in FIG. 14 so that the load of the leg motion by the driver is slightly increased. And it returns to step S4, makes the information apparatus 2 start the information by B specification, and repeats subsequent processes, reading the monitoring result of the leg motion state monitor apparatus 4. FIG.

  Further, when the control device 5 determines in step S6 and step S7 that the predetermined time ts1 has elapsed before the driver starts to step on the pressure sensor 3, the driver's arousal level is increased. It is determined that the state is lower than the determination result in step S2, the timer is stopped in step S14, the process proceeds to step S12, the timer is reset in step S12, and then the information device 2 in step S13. Change the information content.

  Here, when the predetermined time ts1 elapses before the driver starts to step on the pressure sensor 3, it can be determined that the driver is not responding to information from the information device 2. Therefore, in this case, it is considered that the driver's arousal level is further lowered than that in the case where the above-described reaction delay occurs. It is assumed that the information is changed to give a greater stimulus than the changed content when it occurs. Specifically, the control device 5 changes the content of the information by the information device 2 from the A specification shown in FIG. 11 to, for example, the C specification shown in FIG. 15 to further increase the information stimulus and ask the driver. The leg movement is changed from the A specification shown in FIG. 12 to the C specification leg movement pattern shown in FIG. 16 so that the load of the leg movement by the driver is further increased. And it returns to step S4, makes the information apparatus 2 start the information by C specification, and repeats subsequent processes, reading the monitoring result of the leg motion state monitor apparatus 4. FIG.

  Thereafter, in the vehicle doze prevention device of the present embodiment, while the determination in the above processing routine is repeated, there is a response delay of the driver to the information by the information device 2, or the driver reacts. Each time it detects that it is not, it gradually increases the stimulation of information or increases the load of leg movement required by the driver, effectively activating the driver's brain and making it safer and more comfortable Allow driving to continue.

  As described above in detail with specific examples, in the vehicle doze prevention device of the present embodiment, the arousal level of the driver of the vehicle may decrease or decrease from the detection result by the consciousness state detection device 1. When the information device 2 is determined, the information device 2 provides information for urging the driver to perform a leg motion, and the leg motion state monitor device 4 monitors the driver's leg motion state in response to the information from the information device 2. Then, based on the detection result by the consciousness state detection device 1 and the monitoring result by the leg movement state monitoring device 4, the control device 5 controls the content of information by the information device 2. Therefore, according to this vehicle drowsiness prevention device, the driver's brain can be activated by giving the driver an optimal stimulus according to the state of consciousness, and the driver is uncomfortable due to excessive stimulation. Without letting it feel, the driver's drowsiness and boredom can be resolved and sleep can be effectively prevented.

  In particular, according to the vehicle drowsiness prevention apparatus of the present embodiment, the consciousness state detection device 1 includes the biological signal measurement unit 1a, the face image recognition unit 1b, the driving operation measurement unit 1c, the vehicle behavior measurement unit 1d, and the driving environment measurement unit 1e. Since the determination of the driver's arousal level is determined by comprehensively judging the detection results in each of the above parts, the driver's arousal level can be accurately determined over a wide range. The driver's brain can be activated by applying an optimal stimulus according to the state of consciousness.

  Further, according to the vehicle doze prevention device of the present embodiment, the pressure sensor 3 that detects the driver's leg motion as a stepping force is attached to the footrest 104 for the left foot or the floor surface already installed in the vehicle. Thus, it is possible to appropriately detect the leg movement of the driver without changing the current driving operation system in the vehicle. Further, since the driver only needs to perform the leg motion by stepping on the footrest 104 for the left foot or the pressure sensor 3 attached to the floor surface, the driver can perform the leg motion in an easy posture suitable for driving.

[Second Embodiment]
Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. The vehicle doze prevention device of this embodiment is provided with a pressure sensor 3 for detecting a driver's leg motion as a stepping force at a position where the driver can step on the right foot. Since the basic device configuration and operation of the vehicle doze prevention device of the present embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment described above, only the characteristic parts of the present embodiment will be described below. The same description as the first embodiment, such as the basic device configuration and operation, will not be repeated.

  In the vehicle drowsiness prevention apparatus of the present embodiment, the pressure sensor 3 for detecting the driver's leg motion as a stepping force is provided on the right foot placement surface of the vehicle structure provided for placing the driver's right foot. It is attached. Specifically, for example, as shown in FIG. 17, the driver's right foot is newly placed on the floor surface of the vehicle located right next to the accelerator pedal 102 and the brake pedal 103 operated by the driver with the right foot. A footrest 105 for the right foot is provided. Then, the sheet-like pressure sensor 3 is attached to the upper surface of the footrest 105 for the right foot.

  If the footrest 105 for the right foot is provided on the floor surface of the vehicle, the driver places the right foot on the footrest 105 for the right foot when the vehicle is driven using a constant speed traveling device or the like. As with the left foot, the right foot can be held at an easy foot angle. Further, if the pressure sensor 3 is attached to the upper surface of the footrest 105 for the right foot, the movement of the right foot of the driver corresponding to the information from the information device 2 is detected by the pressure sensor 3, and the first embodiment described above. The content of the information can be controlled in the same manner as described above, and an optimal stimulus can be given according to the driver's consciousness state to eliminate the driver's drowsiness and boredom, thereby effectively preventing a drowsiness.

  Further, in the vehicle doze prevention device of the present embodiment, as a vehicle structure for placing the driver's right foot, for example, as shown in FIGS. 18 (a) and 18 (b), a right foot placement member. An accelerator pedal mechanism having 106 and 107 may be provided in the vehicle, and the sheet-like pressure sensor 3 may be attached to the right foot placing members 106 and 107 of the accelerator pedal mechanism. If an accelerator pedal mechanism as shown in FIG. 18 (a) or FIG. 18 (b) is provided in the vehicle, the movement of the kite to the front of the vehicle is restricted while the driver is driving the vehicle. Even when the floor surface rises and deforms at the time of a collision, the driver's ankle bending angle can be kept small and protected. Further, if the pressure sensor 3 is attached to the right foot placing members 106 and 107 of the accelerator pedal mechanism, the movement of the driver's right foot in response to the information from the information device 2 is detected by the pressure sensor 3, and the above described As in the first embodiment, the contents of the information can be controlled, and the driver is optimally stimulated according to the driver's consciousness state to eliminate the driver's drowsiness and boredom, thereby effectively preventing dozing. be able to.

[Third Embodiment]
Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described. The vehicle drowsiness prevention apparatus of the present embodiment is capable of requesting a left leg movement and a right leg movement as the driver's leg movement, respectively. As shown in FIG. 19, the driver's leg movement is depressed. As pressure sensors for detecting the force, a first pressure sensor 31 for the left foot and a second pressure sensor 32 for the right foot are provided. In addition, an information device that performs information for encouraging the driver to exercise the leg is also provided with a first information device 21 for the left foot and a second information device 22 for the right foot. Since other device configurations and basic operations of the vehicle doze prevention device of the present embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment described above, only the characteristic features of the present embodiment will be described below. In addition, a duplicate description of the same contents as in the first embodiment is omitted.

  As described in the first embodiment, the left foot first pressure sensor 31 is attached to a left foot footrest 104, a floor surface, or the like already installed in the vehicle. Further, as described in the second embodiment, the right foot second pressure sensor 32 includes a right foot footrest 105 and an accelerator pedal mechanism provided on the vehicle floor surface where the driver can step on the right foot. Are attached to the right foot placing members 106, 107 and the like.

  The first information device 21 for the left foot and the second information device 22 for the right foot are both turned on and buzzered in the same manner as the information device 2 described in the first embodiment. For example, as shown in FIG. 20, for example, as shown in FIG. 20, the cockpit module of the vehicle is configured to perform information by voice output from 21b and 22b. It is installed at a position where the driver can confirm from the front gazing point with as little gaze movement as possible, such as near the boundary with the windshield on the upper surface side of 101. Here, in particular, in the vehicle doze prevention device of the present embodiment, the first information device 21 for the left foot is used to make it easier for the driver to understand that the information that prompts the leg movement of the left foot is performed. The second information device 22 for the right foot is installed at a position from the right in order to make it easier for the driver to know that the information for urging the leg motion of the right foot is being performed.

  In the vehicle doze prevention device of the present embodiment configured as described above, the control device 5 determines the left foot based on the detection result of the consciousness state detection device 2 and the monitoring result of the leg motion state by the leg motion state monitor device 4. The content of information by the first information device 21 for use and the content of information by the second information device 22 for the right foot can be controlled independently of each other. Therefore, in the vehicle doze prevention device of the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 21, the left and right conditions of the leg motion pattern required for the driver are set to the left and right simultaneously according to the degree of decrease in the driver's consciousness state. The pattern can be changed from a simple pattern to a complex pattern by alternation or combination thereof, and the driver can perform optimal leg exercise with various variations according to the state of consciousness.

  Further, in the vehicle doze prevention device of the present embodiment, the driver can request the leg motion in various variations, so that the driver has a uniform leg motion pattern required by the driver. Therefore, it is possible to effectively avoid the problem of getting tired of the leg movement, to allow the driver to continue the leg movement, and to maintain an appropriate tension for a longer time.

  Furthermore, in the vehicle doze prevention device of the present embodiment, the left leg movement and the right leg movement are required as the driver's leg movement, respectively, so that the driver performs leg movement with both feet connected to the right brain and the left brain, respectively. By doing so, the driver's entire brain can be stimulated in a balanced manner, and a higher arousal effect can be obtained.

[Fourth Embodiment]
Next, a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described. The vehicle doze prevention device of the present embodiment is a modification of the above-described third embodiment. As shown in FIG. 22, the first information device 21 for the left foot and the second information device 22 for the right foot. However, in place of the buzzers 21b and 22b, speakers 21c and 22c are provided, and as the sound output from these speakers 21c and 22c, music with a rhythm synchronized with the lighting pattern of the indicator lights 21a and 22a is output. is there. Further, in the vehicle doze prevention device of the present embodiment, as a monitoring result by the leg motion state monitoring device 4, the content of information by the first information device 21 for the left foot and the second information device 22 for the right foot, A monitoring result display device 10 that displays the corresponding leg movement state of the driver in response to this is provided. The other device configuration and basic operation of the vehicle doze prevention device of the present embodiment are the same as those of the third embodiment described above, and therefore only the characteristic features of the present embodiment will be described below. In addition, the same description as in the third embodiment will not be repeated.

  In the vehicle drowsiness prevention apparatus of the present embodiment, information from the first information device 21 for the left foot and the second information device 22 for the right foot is output from the lighting patterns of the indicator lamps 21a and 22a and the speakers 21c and 22c. It requires the driver to perform leg movements that match the rhythm of the music being played. Then, for example, as shown in FIG. 23, the control device 5 changes the rhythm of the music output from the speakers 21c and 22c in accordance with the driver's consciousness, and synchronizes with the rhythm of the music. , 22a is also changed, and the lighting colors of the indicator lights 21a, 22a, the volume of music, and the timbre are changed to give the driver an optimal stimulus according to the state of consciousness. The brain can be activated.

  In the vehicle doze prevention device of the present embodiment, the leg motion state monitor device 4 monitors whether or not the driver is stepping on the pressure sensors 31 and 32 in accordance with the rhythm of the music. The monitoring result of the driver's leg motion state is displayed on the monitoring result display device 10.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 24, the monitoring result display device 10 can be realized by using a liquid crystal display or the like installed in the center console portion of the cockpit module 101 of the vehicle. This liquid crystal display normally displays a navigation screen for performing vehicle travel guidance, a television screen, and the like. In the vehicle doze prevention device of this embodiment, this liquid crystal display is used as the monitoring result display device 10. Then, on a part of the screen, it is displayed in an easy-to-understand form as shown in FIG. 24 whether the driver is appropriately performing the leg exercise in response to the contents of the information.

  As described above, in the vehicle drowsiness prevention apparatus of this embodiment, music is used for information for encouraging the driver to move the leg, so that when the driver gets bored or drowsed to drive the vehicle. When you become aware, you can activate the brain by performing rhythmical leg movements and expect a high arousal effect. Further, in the vehicle doze prevention device of the present embodiment, the monitoring result by the leg motion state monitor device 4 is displayed in an easy-to-understand manner on the monitoring result display device 10, so that the driver can more appropriately perform the requested leg motion. In addition, the leg exercise itself can be performed happily, and a higher awakening effect can be expected.

  In the vehicle doze prevention device of the present embodiment, as described above, music is used as information for prompting the driver to exercise the leg, but information by a buzzer as described in each of the above embodiments. The implementation of information by music may be selected according to the driver's preference. Also, in the state where the driver's arousal level is greatly reduced, music may not be expected to have an effect as a stimulus, so depending on the level of arousal level, the information by the buzzer may not be used. You may make it do.

  The specific embodiments of the vehicle doze prevention device according to the present invention have been described in detail above. However, the above embodiments exemplify an application example of the present invention, and the technical scope of the present invention is as follows. The present invention is not limited to the contents disclosed in the description of each of the above embodiments, and various alternative techniques that can be easily derived from these disclosures are also included.

It is a figure explaining the process in which the driver | operator of a vehicle falls into sleep driving, the consciousness state and action of the driver in the process, how the driver feels about an alarm, and the appropriate action in response to them. It is a figure which shows the method of detecting a driver | operator's consciousness state as a list. It is a figure which shows the relationship between the effective detection range which can detect a wakefulness level accurately, and each detection method. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the vehicle nap prevention apparatus of 1st Embodiment. It is a figure which shows a mode that the information apparatus was installed in boundary vicinity with the windshield of the cockpit module upper surface side of a vehicle. It is a figure which shows a mode that the sheet-like pressure sensor was attached to the upper surface of the footrest for left feet. It is a figure explaining how a control device controls the contents of information by an information device according to a driver's consciousness state. It is a figure explaining what kind of leg exercise | movement is requested | required with respect to a driver | operator according to a driver | operator's consciousness state. It is a figure explaining how a control device controls the contents of information by an information device according to the monitoring result of a leg movement state. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of a series of operation | movement in the vehicle doze prevention apparatus which concerns on this invention. It is a figure explaining how a control device controls the contents of information by an information device according to a driver's consciousness state, and explains specification A selected when a driver's arousal level is comparatively high. FIG. It is a figure explaining what kind of leg exercise | movement is requested | required with respect to a driver | operator according to a driver | operator's consciousness state, and is a figure explaining A specification selected when a driver | operator's arousal level is comparatively high. is there. It is a figure explaining how a control device controls the contents of information by an information device according to a driver's consciousness state, and B specification selected when a driver's arousal level has fallen a little It is a figure explaining. It is a figure explaining what kind of leg movement is requested | required with respect to a driver | operator according to a driver | operator's consciousness state, and B specification selected when a driver | operator's arousal level has fallen a little is demonstrated. FIG. It is a figure explaining how a control device controls the contents of information by an information device according to a driver's consciousness state, and explains C specification selected when a driver's arousal level further falls. FIG. It is a figure explaining what kind of leg exercise | movement is requested | required with respect to a driver | operator according to a driver | operator's consciousness state, and is a figure explaining C specification selected when a driver | operator's alertness further falls. is there. In the vehicle doze prevention apparatus of 2nd Embodiment, it is a figure which shows a mode that the sheet-like pressure sensor was attached to the footrest upper surface for right feet provided in the vehicle. It is a figure which shows a mode that the sheet-like pressure sensor was attached to the right leg mounting member of an accelerator pedal mechanism in the vehicle dozing prevention apparatus of 2nd Embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the vehicle nap prevention apparatus of 3rd Embodiment. It is a figure which shows a mode that the 1st information apparatus for left legs and the 2nd information apparatus for right legs were installed in the vicinity of the boundary with the windshield of the cockpit module upper surface side of a vehicle. It is a figure explaining what kind of leg exercise | movement is requested | required with respect to a driver | operator according to a driver | operator's consciousness state in the vehicle dozing prevention apparatus of 3rd Embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the vehicle nap prevention apparatus of 4th Embodiment. It is a figure explaining how a control device controls the contents of information by an information device according to a driver's consciousness state in a vehicle doze prevention device of a 4th embodiment. It is a figure which shows a mode that the monitoring result display apparatus was implement | achieved using the liquid crystal display installed in the center console part of the cockpit module of a vehicle in the vehicle dozing prevention apparatus of 4th Embodiment.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Consciousness state detection apparatus 1a Biosignal measuring part 1b Face image recognition part 1c Driving operation measuring part 1d Vehicle behavior measuring part 1e Driving environment measuring part 2 Information apparatus 2a Indicator lamp 2b Buzzer 3 Pressure sensor 4 Leg motion state monitoring apparatus 5 Control apparatus DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 Monitoring result display apparatus 21 1st information apparatus 21a Indicator lamp 21b Buzzer 21c Speaker 22 2nd information apparatus 22a Indicator lamp 22b Buzzer 22c Speaker 31 1st pressure sensor 32 2nd pressure sensor

Claims (21)

In the vehicle doze prevention device for preventing the driver of the vehicle from falling asleep,
Consciousness state detection means for detecting the consciousness state of the driver;
Informing means for informing the driver of leg movement when it is determined from the detection result of the consciousness state detecting means that the driver's arousal level is likely to decrease or decrease,
Leg motion state monitoring means for monitoring the driver's leg motion state in response to the notification by the notification means;
A vehicle doze comprising: control means for controlling the content of the notification by the notification means based on at least one of the detection result by the consciousness state detection means and the monitoring result by the leg movement state monitoring means. Prevention device.   2. The vehicle doze prevention device according to claim 1, wherein the notification means performs notification for encouraging the driver's leg movement by at least one of lighting of an indicator lamp and sound output.   3. The vehicle doze prevention according to claim 2, wherein the notification by the notification means requests a leg motion in accordance with at least one of the lighting pattern of the indicator lamp and the output pattern of the sound. apparatus.   The vehicle drowsiness prevention device according to claim 2, wherein the notification means outputs rhythm music synchronized with a lighting pattern of the indicator lamp as the sound.   The vehicle doze prevention device according to claim 1, wherein the consciousness state detection means detects a driver's arousal level as a driver's consciousness state.   6. The vehicle doze prevention device according to claim 5, wherein the consciousness state detection unit detects a driver's arousal level by detecting a driver's biological signal.   6. The vehicle for vehicle according to claim 5, wherein the consciousness state detection unit detects a driver's arousal level by capturing a driver's face image and performing image recognition processing on the face image. Dozing prevention device.   6. The vehicle doze prevention device according to claim 5, wherein the consciousness state detection unit indirectly detects a driver's arousal level by detecting a driving operation of the vehicle by the driver.   6. The vehicle doze prevention device according to claim 5, wherein the consciousness state detecting means indirectly detects a driver's arousal level by detecting a behavior of the vehicle.   6. The vehicle doze prevention device according to claim 5, wherein the consciousness state detection unit indirectly detects a driver's arousal level by detecting a driving environment and a driving condition of the vehicle. A stepping force detecting means for detecting the leg movement of the driver as the stepping force;
2. The vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the leg movement state monitoring unit monitors a driver's leg movement state in response to the notification by the notification unit, using a detection result of the stepping force detection unit. Dozing prevention device.   The vehicle dozing prevention device according to claim 11, wherein the stepping force detection means comprises a pressure sensor attached to a left foot placement surface of a vehicle structure on which a driver's left foot is placed.   12. The vehicle doze prevention according to claim 11, wherein the stepping force detecting means comprises a pressure sensor attached to a right foot placement surface of a vehicle structure provided for placing a driver's right foot. apparatus.   14. The vehicle doze prevention device according to claim 13, wherein the vehicle structure provided for placing the driver's right foot is an accelerator pedal mechanism having a right foot placement member.   The stepping force detecting means includes a first pressure sensor attached to a left foot placement surface of a vehicle structure on which the driver's left foot is placed, and a vehicle structure provided for placing the driver's right foot. The vehicle doze prevention device according to claim 11, further comprising a second pressure sensor attached to the right foot placement surface.   The control means controls at least one of lighting of a display lamp of the notification means and sound output according to a detection result by the consciousness state detection means, and changes the strength of the notification by the notification means. The vehicle drowsiness prevention device according to claim 2, wherein:   The control means controls at least one of the lighting pattern of the indicator lamp and the sound output pattern of the notification means in accordance with the detection result by the consciousness state detection means, and determines the leg motion pattern requested from the driver. The vehicle doze prevention device according to claim 3, wherein the device is changed.   The control means controls at least one of lighting of an indicator lamp of the notifying means and sound output according to a monitoring result by the leg motion state monitoring means, and changes the strength of the notification by the notifying means. The vehicle drowsiness prevention apparatus according to claim 2, wherein:   The control means controls at least one of the lighting pattern of the indicator lamp and the sound output pattern of the notification means according to the monitoring result by the leg movement state monitoring means, and requests the driver to perform the leg movement pattern. The drowsiness prevention device for a vehicle according to claim 3, wherein:   The monitoring result display means which displays as a monitoring result by the said leg movement state monitoring means correspondingly the content of alerting | reporting by the said alerting | reporting means, and the driver | operator's leg motion state corresponding to this, It is characterized by the above-mentioned. The drowsiness prevention apparatus for vehicles as described. A method for preventing a driver of a vehicle from falling asleep,
When the driver's consciousness state is detected and it is determined from the detection result of the consciousness state that the driver's arousal level is likely to be reduced or lowered, a notification is made to promote the driver's leg movement, and The driver's leg motion state in response to the notification is monitored, and the content of the notification is changed based on at least one of the detection result of the conscious state and the monitoring result of the leg motion state. How to prevent falling asleep.

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