JP2007326493A - Operation device - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To enable a driver to obtain traffic information by less burden of operation at a suitable timing while accomplishing the desired function of an operation device. <P>SOLUTION: The operation device is provided with a means 85 for obtaining the traffic information and a switch 60 for accomplishing predetermined function. In the operation device, when a user operates the switch, the predetermined function is accomplished after the obtained traffic information is output. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2008,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an operating device that has a predetermined function and outputs traffic information.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, there is known an operation device generally called a navigation device having predetermined functions such as an audio function, a map display function, and a function for outputting traffic information.

  This type of operating device has an audio function that outputs audio information such as CD, MD, DVD, and radio, a telephone function, a navigation function that displays a map to the destination and gives route information, traffic jams and road construction Although it has a predetermined function such as a function for outputting intermediate traffic information, the driver operates the operating device while driving the vehicle to realize a desired function, so that the burden on the driver is reduced. large. In addition, the predetermined function described above is completely different from the function that provides information useful for assisting the driving of the vehicle such as the navigation function and the output of traffic information, and the driving function such as the audio function and the telephone function. However, since traffic information is useful information for safe driving, it is desirable to provide it to the driver at an appropriate time. However, since the choice is left to the driver, there are some drivers who continue driving without obtaining traffic information due to the troublesome operation of the operating device. For example, if you want to output traffic information from a screen that normally displays a map, you must switch to enter the audio function mode, and then select the traffic information menu. There is an annoyance to be forced to operate the switch once, which is a heavy burden on the driver. Therefore, various proposals on whether to provide useful traffic information or realize a desired function while reducing the operational burden without disturbing the driver's safe driving under the restriction of driving. Has been made.

  For example, the operation device automatically determines whether or not the driving vehicle is involved in the traffic jam as a notification of the traffic information without causing the driver to operate the operation device at the time of traffic jam, A technique for automatically displaying traffic information when it is determined that the traffic is in a traffic jam state has been proposed (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

  In addition, from the viewpoint that the display of information does not interfere with the driving field of view, the information display on the so-called head-up display that displays information on the front windshield glass of the vehicle is There has been proposed a display device that makes a display inconspicuous when it is determined that it is in a state (see, for example, Patent Document 2).

Further, a vehicle display control device that detects a driver's driving load, sets a mode according to the driving load, and changes a menu display in accordance with the mode in order to reduce a driver's operation burden. Proposed. (For example, refer to Patent Document 3).
JP-A-9-305107 JP-A-7-266925 JP 2004-249834 A

  However, in the configuration described in Patent Document 1 described above, the operation device automatically determines whether or not the traffic information can be output. Therefore, even when the driver wants to actively acquire the traffic information, the traffic information cannot be obtained. There is a problem. Also, even if traffic information comes in when the driver is paying attention to other information or thinking, etc., the user's ability to concentrate on traffic information is insufficient, and traffic information cannot be caught. You may miss it. Furthermore, if the traffic information is already known, it is not necessary to output the information again, and it may be troublesome if the information is output.

  On the other hand, in the configuration described in Patent Document 2 or 3 described above, provision of traffic information to the driver is not considered at all.

  Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide traffic information useful for driving a vehicle to the driver while reducing the operation load when the driver's attention to the information is high.

In order to achieve the above object, an operating device according to a first aspect of the present invention is an operating device comprising information acquisition means for acquiring information and a switch for realizing a predetermined function,
When the switch is operated, information independent of the predetermined function acquired by the information acquisition unit is output, and then the predetermined function related to the switch is realized. Accordingly, when the degree of attention to the user information is high, the user can be notified of the information as independent information regardless of the function of the operation device.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the operating device according to the first aspect,
The information is traffic information. Thereby, the traffic information which is important information for the user can be notified.

A third aspect of the present invention is the operating device according to the second aspect,
It has a storage means for storing the traffic information, and outputs only when there is traffic information that has not been output in the past. Thereby, the user can avoid flowing the same traffic information many times, and can always obtain only new information.

4th invention is the operating device which concerns on 2nd or 3rd invention,
The output of the traffic information is performed when a user operates a switch having a function of outputting voice information. Accordingly, traffic information can be provided when the user is most interested in audio information, and the possibility that the traffic information is effectively used increases.

A fifth invention is an operating device according to the first to fourth inventions,
The switch is disposed at a position where the user can operate, and further includes a display for displaying the layout of the switch at a position where the user can visually recognize the switch. This makes it easy to operate a switch that is at hand of the user and can be reached but is not easily viewed during driving.

6th invention is the operating device which concerns on 5th invention,
The display is a head-up display that projects the arrangement of the switch on a front windshield glass of a vehicle. Thereby, when operating the said operation apparatus, the viewpoint moving distance during a user's driving | operation becomes shorter, and the safety | security of driving | operation improves.

The operating device according to the seventh invention is:
An operating device comprising means for acquiring traffic information, a switch for realizing a predetermined function arranged at a position operable by a user, and a display for displaying the arrangement of the switch at a position visible to the user ,
Only when traffic information is acquired, a switch having a function of outputting traffic information is displayed on the display. Thereby, the user can know that the traffic information has been obtained from the appearance of the switch display on the display, and the traffic information can be obtained by operating the switch when desired to obtain any traffic information.

An operating device according to an eighth invention is the operating device according to the seventh invention,
The display is a head-up display that projects the arrangement of the switch on a front windshield glass of a vehicle. Thereby, when operating the said operation apparatus, the viewpoint moving distance during a user's driving | operation becomes shorter, and the safety | security of driving | operation improves.

The operating device according to the ninth invention is:
An operating device comprising means for acquiring traffic information, a switch for realizing a predetermined function arranged at a position operable by a user, and a display for displaying the arrangement of the switch at a position visible to the user ,
When the traffic information is acquired, the display of the switch of the function of outputting the traffic information displayed on the display is emphasized. Thereby, the user can know that the traffic information has been obtained from the emphasis of the switch display on the display, and the traffic information can be obtained by operating the switch when desired to obtain any traffic information.

An operating device according to a tenth invention is the operating device according to the ninth invention,
The emphasis of the display of the switch is to enlarge the display of the switch or to emphasize the font of the display of the switch.

An operating device according to an eleventh invention is the operating device according to the ninth or tenth invention,
The display is a head-up display that projects the arrangement of the switch on a front windshield glass of a vehicle. Thereby, when operating the said operation apparatus, the viewpoint moving distance during a user's driving | operation becomes shorter, and the safety | security of driving | operation improves.

  ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to this invention, while reducing the operation burden when a user obtains traffic information, a user can be made to recognize required traffic information reliably.

  The best mode for carrying out the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 1 is a functional block diagram illustrating an example of a main configuration related to the operating device according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the operation device according to the present embodiment includes an operation unit 100, a display control device 70, and a display unit that displays an operation menu image (detailed later) that assists the driver's operation on the operation unit 100. 40.

  The display control device 70 is configured around a microcomputer. That is, the display control unit 70 includes a CPU that performs various processes according to a predetermined execution program, a memory (for example, ROM, RAM, EEPROM, etc.) that stores an execution program of the CPU, image data, calculation results, etc., a timer, a counter, an input It has an output interface. The CPU, memory, and input / output interface are connected to each other by a data bus. Various operations / functions of the display control device 70 described below are realized by programs executed by the CPU.

  The display control device 70 communicates with the operation unit 100 by wireless or wired. Upon receiving various switch signals from the operation unit 100, the display control device 70 performs switching of a display screen (generation of various menu images) on the display unit 40, and other control ECUs (for example, a car navigation ECU, an audio) ECU and air conditioner ECU, etc.) send signals according to various switch signals. The other control ECU responds to the signal from the display control device 70 and controls the in-vehicle device 80 that realizes functions according to various switch signals.

  The display control device 70 communicates with the display unit 40 by wireless or wired. In this example, the display unit 40 is a display provided at a visually recognizable position, and is installed at an easy-to-see position in front of the user so that the driver as a user does not have to move the viewpoint greatly during driving. The Further, a head-up display that projects and displays on the front windshield glass of the vehicle is also preferably used.

  The in-vehicle device 80 receives VICS (Vehicle Information & Communication System) information such as traffic information in addition to navigation computers, audio, air conditioners, telephones, etc. for realizing predetermined functions in response to switch operations. Radio beacon antennas, optical beacon antennas, VICS computers, as well as radio antennas for receiving FM multiplex broadcast signals.

  FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the relationship between the operating device and the information centers 30 and 36 for sending traffic information, and details of the in-vehicle device 80 of the operating device. For example, in the road traffic information communication system (VICS) 30, the Japanese road traffic information center 31 processes and edits the collected traffic information such as traffic jams, accidents, constructions, parking lots, etc., and sends it to the VICS center 32. The edited traffic information is transmitted from the VICS center 32 through the radio beacon 33, the optical beacon 34, and the FM multiplex broadcast 35. Also, other public or private external information centers 36, such as information centers such as G-BOOK centers, may transmit traffic information. Depending on the characteristics of the center and the region, it can be expected to deliver unique and useful traffic information, such as sending detailed information more specialized than VICS, or sending traffic information weighted with information in mind.

  This operating device includes a radio beacon antenna 81, an optical beacon antenna 82, a radio antenna 83, another external center antenna 89, a VICS computer 84, a navigation computer 85 equipped with storage means 86, an audio, an air conditioner, a telephone, and the like. The apparatus 87 which implement | achieves these functions, the vehicle equipment 80 comprised from the audio | voice output means 88, the display control apparatus 70, the operation part 100 containing the operation switch 60, and the display part 40 are comprised.

  The radio beacon antenna 81, the optical beacon antenna 82, and the radio antenna 83 receive VICS traffic information transmitted from the radio beacon 33, the optical beacon 34, and the FM multiplex broadcast 35, respectively. For signals transmitted from other external information centers 36, an external center antenna 89 suitable for the signal carrier used at the center is used to receive the signals. The VICS computer 84 demodulates the VICS information received by the radio beacon antenna 81 and the optical beacon antenna 82.

  The navigation computer 85 receives signals sent from the VICS computer 84, the radio antenna 83, and the external center antenna, and stores the information in the storage means 86 or sends it to the display control device 70 for display. It is sent to the audio output means 88 and outputted. It also controls devices that implement predetermined functions, such as audio, air conditioners, telephones, and navigation systems. The storage means 86 is for storing the acquired traffic information as necessary, and a general memory is suitably used.

  As described above, for the VICS traffic information sent from the electromagnetic beacon 33, the optical beacon 34, and the FM multiplex broadcast 35 and the traffic information sent from the external information center 36, the electromagnetic beacon antenna 81, Since the information is received and received by the beacon antenna 82, the radio antenna 83, and the external center antenna 89, these function as information acquisition means. The information acquisition means may be of any type and format as long as it can acquire information sent from the outside, but may be an information reception means using an antenna or the like as described in the present embodiment.

  In addition, regarding the type of information to be acquired, an external information center 36 such as a G-BOOK center may provide useful information for drivers other than traffic information. For example, in the event of a typhoon, weather information can be useful information, and for drivers who live in a particular area, bargain information for that area can be useful information for that driver. possible. In the present embodiment, for the sake of easy understanding, traffic information, which is generally useful information for the driver, will be described as an example. However, information useful for other types of drivers is also described in the present embodiment. Can be applied as well.

  The in-vehicle device 87 that realizes a predetermined function is a device that realizes a predetermined function according to the operation of the switch 60 such as an audio function, an air conditioner function, a telephone function, and a navigation function based on a command from the navigation computer 85. It is.

  The voice output unit 88 is for outputting the traffic information sent from the navigation computer as a voice, and a normal speaker may be suitably used. Further, it may also be used as a speaker when listening to a sound such as music recorded on an information recording medium such as a CD, MD, DVD, or a tuner.

  The display control device 70 performs signal processing and control of traffic information sent from the navigation computer 85, navigation information such as route presentation, and the like, and display control of the arrangement of the switch 60 on the display unit 40. Further, in response to the operation of the switch 60, a signal for realizing a predetermined function corresponding to the switch is sent to the navigation computer 85.

    The operation unit 100 is for operating the operation device, and includes an operation switch 60. When the user operates the switch 60, a desired function corresponding to the switch can be executed. For example, you can play CD or MD music in the audio mode, adjust the volume, turn on or off the air conditioner or adjust the temperature in the air conditioner mode, make a phone call in the handsfree mode in the phone mode In the navigation mode, the optimal route to the destination can be searched. In this example, the switch 60 is preferably a steering switch provided on the steering wheel, but any switch can be used as long as it is within reach and operable.

  The display unit 40 is for facilitating the operation of the switch 60 described above, and displays the arrangement of the switch 60 on a display installed at a position that is easy for the user to see. Since the driver must operate the operating device during driving, it is preferable that the position of the display be installed in front of the driver so that the viewpoint movement of the driver is small in order to maintain safety. For example, in the case of a kind of display that can be directly seen by the driver, such as a liquid crystal display, it may be arranged at the center of the upper surface of the instrument panel. A head-up display (HUD) that projects and displays the arrangement of the switches of the operation unit on the front windshield glass is also preferably used.

  FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of a head-up display device. The head-up display device includes a HUD unit 42. The HUD unit 42 is mounted at an appropriate position in the instrument panel in the vehicle interior according to the display position of the display image on the front windshield glass 46 of the display image. A display 44 is housed inside the case 43 of the HUD unit 42. The display 44 emits display light corresponding to the video signal (display image) from the display control device 70. The display light emitted from the display 44 reaches the front windshield glass 46 through the concave mirror 45. At this time, the display light is reflected by the front windshield glass 46 in the direction of the observer (mainly the driver), and a reflected image corresponding to the display image of the display 44 is displayed in front of the driver. Note that the head-up display device may not only display the operation menu image, but may display an image captured by an infrared camera, for example, during night driving as a normal usage mode.

  FIG. 4 shows an example of the operation unit 100 and shows an example of the steering switch 60 provided on the steering wheel 10. The steering wheel 10 is disposed on the driver's seat side, is connected to a steering shaft (not shown), and is operated to steer the wheels of the vehicle. In this example, the steering wheel 10 includes an annular handle portion 12 that is gripped and rotated by a driver, a center portion 14, and spokes 16 that extend radially from the handle portion 12 and the center portion 14. The center portion 14 of the steering wheel occupies a relatively large area because the airbag is mounted.

  The steering switch 60 is disposed near the root of the spoke 16, that is, on the outer peripheral side of the central portion. In the first embodiment, the steering switch 60 is arranged in a large number (six or more on the left and right sides), and constitutes an operation device with abundant functions.

  The steering switch 60 shown in FIG. 4 forms a group of four switches. In this example, the four switch groups are preferably intended to be operated with the left hand switch groups 101, 102 that are intended to be operated with the left hand holding the steering wheel, and preferably with the right hand holding the steering wheel. And right switch groups 103 and 104.

  The first switch group 101 is densely arranged on the upper left side when viewed from the driver, and is used, for example, to operate the audio system. The first switch group 101 shown in FIG. 4 includes five steering switches 60 arranged in close contact with each other. Specifically, the first switch group 101 includes four steering switches 60 so as to surround one steering switch 60. The five steering switches 60 include, for example, a seek switch for tuning in the radio / TV mode and searching for a desired playback medium, a volume switch for increasing or decreasing the playback output, and Mode switch. On the surface of the operation member (switch knob) 64 of each steering switch 60, letters or symbols representing the respective functions are given. The center steering switch 60 may be a fixed function switch as a mode switch, but it is configured as a multifunction switch that realizes multiple functions and functions as a traffic information switch only when traffic information is acquired. May be. Although not shown, the traffic information output switch may be provided as an independent switch below the mode switch, for example.

  The second switch group 102 is densely arranged on the lower left side when viewed from the driver, and is used, for example, to operate an air conditioning system (so-called air conditioner). The second switch group 102 shown in FIG. 4 includes five steering switches 60 arranged in close proximity to each other. Specifically, the second switch group 102 includes four steering switches 60 arranged in two rows on the left and right sides, and one steering switch 60 having a width corresponding to two rows on the lower side. The five steering switches 60 are, for example, a switch for increasing or decreasing the temperature, a front defroster switch, a rear defogger switch, and an auto function on / off switch. On the surface of each steering switch 60, letters or symbols representing the respective functions are given.

  The third switch group 103 is densely arranged on the upper right side when viewed from the driver, and is used for operating various voice function systems including a wireless communication function, for example. The third switch group 103 shown in FIG. 4 includes five steering switches 60 arranged in close contact with each other. Specifically, the third switch group 103 is configured by arranging four steering switches 60 so as to surround one steering switch 60, similarly to the first switch group 101. The arrangement of the steering switches 60 of the third switch group 103 may be symmetrical with respect to the arrangement of the steering switches 60 of the first switch group 101. The five steering switches 60 include, for example, a switch for receiving and disconnecting a mobile phone (or a vehicle phone), a voice recognition switch to be pressed when speaking a voice to be recognized, and a MAP switch for returning to the current position display on the navigation screen. And an INFO switch for displaying various information. Similarly, on the surface of the operation member 64 of each steering switch 60, letters or symbols representing the respective functions are given.

  The fourth switch group 104 is densely arranged on the lower right side when viewed from the driver, and is used, for example, to operate the vehicle information management system. The fourth switch group 104 shown in FIG. 4 includes five steering switches 60 arranged in close proximity to each other. Specifically, in the fourth switch group 104, as in the second switch group 102, four steering switches 60 are arranged in two rows on the left and right sides, and one steering switch having a width corresponding to two rows is provided below the four steering switches 60. 60 is arranged. The arrangement of the steering switches 60 in the fourth switch group 104 may be symmetrical with respect to the arrangement of the steering switches 60 in the second switch group 102. The five steering switches 60 are, for example, a VIEW switch for switching to a peripheral monitoring screen showing a peripheral monitoring result by a clearance sonar or a peripheral monitoring camera, a DISP switch for switching display of a meter or a display, and an inter-vehicle distance in laser cruise control. This is a changeover switch or a low-speed tracking mode changeover switch in laser cruise control. Similarly, on the surface of each steering switch 60, letters or symbols representing the respective functions are given.

  FIG. 5 shows a normal display state of the operation menu image. The operation menu image is an image for supporting the operation of the driver with respect to the operation unit 100, and informs the driver of various functions realized by the operation of each steering switch 60 of the operation unit 100, and also provides the various functions. It serves to inform the driver of the position of each steering switch 60 to be operated in order to realize. The operation menu image is a basic image even when the display screen is switched on the display unit 40, and is an image serving as an entrance to another display image such as a detailed operation guide image.

  As shown in FIG. 5, in the normal display state of the operation menu image, a function display representing the function of each steering switch 60 is displayed in the same arrangement as the arrangement of the steering switch 60 shown in FIG.

  By the way, in the configuration in which a large number of the steering switches 60 are arranged as described above, when an individual function is displayed for every steering switch 60 for each steering switch 60, the function display in the operation menu image is displayed. As with the arrangement of 60, it is difficult to see densely.

  Therefore, in this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 5, as a normal display state of the operation menu image, an overall function display that represents each function of the plurality of steering switches 60 belonging to the same group as one representative function is displayed. Is done. Specifically, in the normal display state, as shown in FIG. 5, the function display related to each steering switch 60 belonging to the first switch group 101 is a figure imitating a “musical note” representatively representing an audio function. The overall function display. Similarly, the function display relating to each steering switch 60 belonging to the second switch group 102 includes an overall function display of a figure imitating a “blower” representatively representing the air conditioning function, and belongs to the third switch group 103. The function display related to each steering switch 60 is an overall function display of a figure imitating a “telephone” representatively representing a voice function. The function display related to each steering switch 60 belonging to the fourth switch group 104 is a vehicle display. It consists of an overall function display of a figure imitating a “vehicle” representatively representing the information management function.

  In this way, the entire function display is arranged in the same arrangement as each of the switch groups 101 to 104 (and thus each steering switch 60 belonging to each group), so the driver relies on the positional relationship of the entire function display. In addition, the approximate positional relationship between the switch groups 101 to 104 can be grasped.

  Next, the operation of this operating device will be described.

  FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing processing executed by the operating device.

  In step 100, it is determined whether or not the traffic information is acquired by a beacon or the like. If there is the acquired traffic information, the process proceeds to step 110. If the traffic information is not entered, the process of the operation device according to the present embodiment is not executed, and the process flow ends.

  In step 110, it is determined whether or not a switch operation has been performed. If there is a switch operation, the process moves to step 120, and the acquired traffic information is output independently of the function of the switch. When there is no switch operation, the process moves to step 130, and the acquired traffic information is temporarily stored in the storage means 86. This means that even if traffic information is acquired, if there is no switch operation immediately, the acquired traffic information is not output, and after a while there is a switch operation and the acquired traffic information is output, This is because the traffic information needs to be stored. If the stored acquired traffic information is operated by a switch, the process proceeds to step 120 as described above, and the stored traffic information is output. When new traffic information is acquired in addition to the stored traffic information, the traffic information is also output together with the stored traffic information. Alternatively, only new traffic information may be output.

  In step 140, a predetermined function corresponding to the switch operation is realized. This is because after the traffic information is output, it is necessary to achieve the user's desired function and achieve the original purpose of the operating device. If it is an audio function, it will play CDs and MDs, if it is an air conditioner function, it will be turned on and off, and the temperature will be adjusted. Then, the processing flow ends.

  By the way, in this embodiment, as described above, when a switch operation is performed, the original switch function is not realized, but traffic information which is information independent of the switch function is output. As described above, the traffic information is output when the switch is operated. When the switch is operated, the user's attention is directed to the operation of the operation device, and the concentration of the information output from the operation device is increased. This is because there is a high possibility that the information is surely transmitted to the user. On the other hand, in a vague state, for example, when driving a vehicle while thinking, or conversely, driving at night, rainy weather, or driving on a narrow road, concentrate on driving When it is unavoidable, there is not much interest in the information that flows, and even if useful traffic information is circulated, there is a high possibility that it will be missed. As described above, according to this embodiment, the switch operation is used as a trigger for traffic information output to provide effective traffic information taking into account the user's condition. Can be output to prevent missed listening.

  In addition, the operation device further reduces the operation load on the operation device. In a conventional operation device, for example, when trying to obtain traffic information by voice, if there is a navigation mode in which a map is displayed in front of the eyes, once enter the audio mode, and then turn on an operation switch for outputting traffic information. Will be operated. And if you want to get new traffic information after that, you have to keep that mode, and if you want to enjoy another audio program or go back to the normal map display again, Switch operation to reach the mode must be performed. That is, in order to hear traffic information that can be used for a short time and to return to the normal mode, it is necessary to perform double and triple switch operations. This operation device does not require a switch operation procedure to enter a mode for listening to normal traffic information, and traffic information comes in every time a switch operation of any desired purpose is performed, so troublesome switch operations are performed. Therefore, traffic information relating to safety can be obtained effectively while enjoying the functions of the original operation device.

  The traffic information may be output for all switch operations. In particular, the traffic information may be output only when the audio switch 101 is operated. This is because, when the audio mode is selected, it is considered that the user's interest in the voice is the highest, so it seems that it is the best time to provide traffic information to the user. In addition, some users may find it annoying if traffic information comes in every switch operation, so traffic information is only displayed when operating the switch 101 that selects and operates the audio function mode. You may make it output. Furthermore, it may be possible for the user to arbitrarily set which operation switch is operated to output the traffic information. As a result, the user can adjust the appropriate time to obtain traffic information. In this embodiment, traffic information with high importance may be output by the above-described method, and traffic information with low importance may be discarded without being output. This is because some users may only want to hear traffic information with high importance.

  FIG. 7 is a flowchart in the case where the traffic information that has already been output is not output in consideration of the output history of traffic information in the processing executed by the processing apparatus. The operation shown in FIG. 7 differs from the processing shown in FIG. 6 in that the same traffic information as the acquired traffic information that has already been output is not output even if there is a switch operation. Since the user does not need to hear the traffic information that is already known, it eliminates the annoyance of repeatedly hearing the same traffic information. In addition, about the process similar to the process shown in FIG. 6, the same referential mark is attached | subjected and description is abbreviate | omitted.

  In step 200, it is determined whether or not the acquired traffic information is different from the output traffic information stored in the storage means 86. The determination whether the acquired traffic information is different from the output traffic information is performed using such information because, for example, time stamp / link information is added to the VICS information. That is, for example, when there is a traffic accident or road construction on any road, when the traffic information about the traffic accident or road construction is generated, the information about the generation time of the traffic information is the time Attached to the traffic information as a stamp is provided. Therefore, if this is used, the information regarding the same traffic accident and road construction can be specified, and it can be judged whether the acquired traffic information is different from the output traffic information. In this embodiment, the time stamp is taken as an example, and traffic information and information related to road construction are described as an example. However, the present invention can be applied to other traffic information such as traffic jams, and means for specifying information other than the time stamp Needless to say, the present invention can be suitably applied to this embodiment. If the acquired traffic information is different from the output traffic information stored in the storage means 86, the process proceeds to step 210. If the acquired traffic information is the same as the output traffic information, the processing flow ends without outputting the acquired traffic information. The storage means already uses the storage means 86 shown in step 130 in common. However, the storage means temporarily stores the acquired traffic information shown in step 130 until a switch operation is performed, and the output traffic shown in step 200. You may make it provide the memory | storage means which memorize | stores the log | history of information separately.

  In step 210, the acquired traffic information is output and the output traffic information is stored in the storage means 86. This is because the acquired traffic information is also known to the user if it is output, so it is necessary to add it to the storage target as new output traffic information.

  FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a display image of the display unit 40 related to the operation device according to the second embodiment. The operation device according to the second embodiment is the same as the device configuration described in the first embodiment except that the operation of the display image on the display unit 40 is different. The operation device configuration illustrated in FIGS. There are no changes.

  FIG. 8A is a normal display screen displaying the arrangement of the operation switch 60 of the operation device. Details thereof have been described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 8B shows the traffic information output switch in such a manner that the audio function switch group 101 is enlarged and displayed in the center on a normal display screen showing the arrangement of the operation switch 60 of the operation device of FIG. A display 50 is added. In this case, when the operation apparatus acquires traffic information, the display 50 of the traffic information output switch appears on the display unit so that the user can recognize that the traffic information has been acquired. Thereby, the user can access the traffic information in a timely manner when the traffic information is acquired, and can always listen to the latest useful traffic information. In FIG. 8B, the traffic information output switch is made to appear in the center of the display unit 40 so that it is easy to see.

  FIG. 8C shows the arrangement of the switch 60 when the traffic information output switch is provided below the mode switch in the audio function operation switch group 101 in addition to the normal display screen of FIG. ing. When traffic information is acquired when the mode switch 60 arranged in the center of the audio function operation switch group 101 is a fixed function and a switch configuration is provided with a dedicated switch for outputting traffic information below that, when traffic information is acquired, that effect The switch arrangement 51 is displayed in an enlarged manner at the center so that the driver can recognize. Thereby, the user can know that the traffic information has been acquired and the position of the traffic information output switch. Note that, as in FIG. 9B, the switch arrangement 51 may be displayed at an easily visible location on the display.

  Further, the display unit 40 is for facilitating the operation of the operation switch 60 as described in the first embodiment, and the arrangement of the switch 60 is arranged on a display installed at a position that is easy for the user to see. indicate. Since the driver must operate the operating device during driving, it is preferable that the position of the display be installed in front of the driver so that the viewpoint movement of the driver is small in order to maintain safety. For example, in the case of a kind of display that can be directly seen by the driver, such as a liquid crystal display, it may be arranged at the center of the upper surface of the instrument panel. A head-up display (HUD) that projects and displays the arrangement of the switches of the operation unit on the front windshield glass is also preferably used. As the configuration of the head-up display, the one described in FIG. 3 of the first embodiment is preferably used.

  FIG. 9 is a flowchart of the process of the controller device according to the second embodiment.

  In step 300, it is determined whether traffic information has been acquired. When the traffic information is acquired, the process proceeds to step 310. When the traffic information is not acquired, only the predetermined function is continuously executed, and the invention according to the present operation device is not particularly executed, so that the processing is ended.

  In step 310, the display of the traffic information output switch is displayed on the display unit 40. Since the traffic information output switch that did not exist in the normal display appears when the traffic information is acquired, the user can know that new traffic information has been acquired.

  Step 320 is a step of determining whether or not the user has turned on the traffic information output switch in accordance with the display of the traffic information output switch. If turned on, the process proceeds to step 330 to output the acquired traffic information. . If not turned on, the process proceeds to step 340.

  In step 340, the traffic information output in step 330 has already been achieved, so the display of the traffic information output switch on the display 40 is erased and reset to end the processing flow, and the next traffic Prepare for information acquisition.

  FIG. 10 is obtained by adding only the storage step 350 of acquired traffic information to the flowchart of the operation of the operation device shown in FIG. Even if the user does not immediately turn on the traffic information output switch in step 320, once the traffic information is stored in the storage means 86, if the user turns on the traffic information output switch for a while, then You can hear the traffic information you get. In this case, a timer may be provided in the storage means 86 and the acquired traffic information may be erased and reset after a certain time has elapsed.

  FIG. 11 is obtained by changing only the step 320 in the flowchart of the operation of the operating device shown in FIG.

  In step 400, after the traffic information output switch is displayed on the display 40 in step 310, the acquired traffic information is output by operating any operation switch instead of the traffic information output switch. Thereby, the operation effort at the time of outputting acquired traffic information is further reduced.

  FIG. 12 is obtained by adding only the storage step 350 of acquired traffic information to the flowchart of the operation of the operating device shown in FIG. In step 320, even if the user does not turn on any operation switch immediately, once the traffic information is stored in the storage means 86, if the user turns on any operation switch after a while, Sometimes you can hear the traffic information you get. In this case, a timer may be provided in the storage means 86 and the acquired traffic information may be erased and reset after a certain time has elapsed.

FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a display image of the display unit 40 related to the operation device according to the third embodiment. The operation device according to the third embodiment is the same as the device configuration described in the first embodiment except that the operation of the display image on the display unit 40 is different. The operation device configuration illustrated in FIGS. There are no changes.

  FIG. 13A is a normal display screen displaying the arrangement of the operation switches 60 of the operation device. Details thereof have been described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 13B is an enlarged view of the switch for operating the upper left audio function from the screen (A) displaying the arrangement of the normal operation switch 60. In order to notify the user when the operation device acquires traffic information, this is emphasized by enlarging the switch display for the audio mode in which the traffic information output switch is turned on. It is a thing. Accordingly, the user can know that the traffic information has been acquired, and the acquired traffic information can be output by operating the switch.

  FIG. 13C is a screen (A) displaying the arrangement of the normal operation switch 60 with the font highlighted for the switch for operating the upper left audio function. Font enhancement may be realized by changing brightness, contrast, color, and the like. In this case, when the operating device acquires traffic information, the audio mode switch display font containing the traffic information is displayed with emphasis in order to notify the user of that fact. Accordingly, the user can know that the traffic information has been acquired, and the acquired traffic information can be output by operating the switch.

  FIG. 13D is a screen (A) showing the arrangement of the normal operation switch 60, and the traffic information is displayed from the graphic display imitating a “musical note” for the switch for operating the upper left audio function “ The display is a combination of the text “Trafic” and a figure simulating “road”. This is a change in the display itself to notify the user when traffic information is acquired. Needless to say, this display can be further enlarged and emphasized, or the font can be emphasized to further enhance the user's interest.

  In the configuration of FIGS. 13B, 13C, and 13D, in order to output traffic information, the configuration is not such that the menu is selected in more detail after entering the audio mode. If it is configured so that it can be operated directly from the steering switch, touching the audio mode selection switch with a finger will cause the traffic information switch as shown in FIGS. 8B and 8C of the second embodiment. It is good also as a structure which switches to the display which shows a position. This further facilitates the switch operation for outputting the traffic information.

  Further, the display unit 40 is for facilitating the operation of the operation switch 60 as described in the first embodiment, and the arrangement of the switch 60 is arranged on a display installed at a position that is easy for the user to see. indicate. Since the driver must operate the operating device during driving, it is preferable that the position of the display be installed in front of the driver so that the viewpoint movement of the driver is small in order to maintain safety. For example, in the case of a kind of display that can be directly seen by the driver, such as a liquid crystal display, it may be arranged at the center of the upper surface of the instrument panel. A head-up display (HUD) that projects and displays the arrangement of the switches of the operation unit on the front windshield glass is also preferably used. As the configuration of the head-up display, the one described in FIG. 3 of the first embodiment is preferably used.

  FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating the processing of FIGS. 13B and 13C of the operating device according to the third embodiment.

  In step 400, it is determined whether or not traffic information has been acquired. If it has been acquired, the process proceeds to step 410. If the traffic information has not been acquired, the processing of the controller device according to the present embodiment is not executed, and the flow ends.

  In step 410, the display of the audio function switch is enlarged or the font is emphasized. By highlighting the audio mode switch, the user recognizes that the operating device has acquired traffic information.

  In step 420, it is determined whether or not the audio function switch is turned on. If ON, the process moves to step 430. If it remains OFF, the processing flow ends. This is because the traffic information output mode is in the lower layer of the audio mode, so that the subsequent acquired traffic information cannot be output unless the audio function switch is turned on.

  In step 430, it is determined whether or not the traffic information output switch is turned on. If ON, the process moves to step 440. If it is OFF, the acquired traffic information cannot be output, so the processing flow ends there.

  In step 440, the acquired traffic information is output. Thus, the user obtains the desired acquired traffic information.

  In step 450, the enhancement of the audio function switch is released. This is because we have already heard the desired acquired traffic information, so that we can reset it and prepare for the next new traffic information.

  In FIG. 14, if the audio function switch is changed to “Traffic information output switch display” in step 410, it can be applied as it is as the flow showing the process of FIG.

  The preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above. However, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications and substitutions can be made to the above-described embodiments without departing from the scope of the present invention. Can be added. In particular, in the present embodiment, the traffic information has been described as an example, but information useful for other drivers may also be an object of the present invention. For example, an external information center 36 such as the G-BOOK Center can provide information useful for a specific driver, such as weather information and information closely related to the local life, so such information may be targeted. If selection of the type of information can be set by the user, the present invention can be suitably applied to information important to the user.

FIG. 3 is a functional block diagram illustrating an example of a main configuration related to the operating device according to the first embodiment. It is a functional block diagram which shows the detail of the relationship between an operating device and VICS, and the vehicle equipment of an operating device. It is sectional drawing which shows an example of a head-up display apparatus. It is sectional drawing which shows an example of the steering switch 60 provided in the steering wheel. It is a figure which shows the display state on the normal display of arrangement | positioning of an operation switch. 3 is a flowchart illustrating processing of the operation device according to the first embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows a process when the traffic information with an output history is not output among the processes of the operating device which concerns on Example 1. FIG. It is a figure which shows the display of the display part 40 when the traffic information of the operating device which concerns on Example 2 is acquired. FIG. 8 (A) shows a display in a normal state before traffic information acquisition, FIG. 8 (B) shows a display when the audio mode switch becomes a traffic information switch, and FIG. 8 (C) shows a traffic display. The display when a switch is provided independently is shown. 10 is a flowchart illustrating basic processing of the operating device according to the second embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the process in the case of temporarily storing the acquired traffic information of the operating device which concerns on Example 2. FIG. It is a flowchart which shows a process in case acquisition traffic information is output by the arbitrary operation switches of the operating device which concerns on Example 2. FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the process in case acquisition traffic information is output by the arbitrary operation switches of the operating device based on Example 2, and the temporary storage of acquisition traffic information is required. It is a figure which shows the display of the display part 40 when the traffic information of the operating device which concerns on Example 3 is acquired. FIG. 13A shows a display in a normal state before traffic information acquisition, FIG. 13B shows a case where an audio mode switch is enlarged, and FIG. 13C shows a font of the audio mode switch. FIG. 13D shows a case where the audio mode switch changes to a traffic information output switch display. 10 is a flowchart illustrating processing of an operation device according to a third embodiment.

Explanation of symbols

10 Steering wheel 12 Handle part 14 Center part 16 Spoke 30 VICS (Road traffic information system)
31 Japan Road Traffic Information Center 32 VICS Center 33 Radio Beacon 34 Optical Beacon 35 FM Multiplex Broadcasting 36 Other External Information Center 40 Display Unit 42 Head Up Display Unit 43 Case 44 Display 45 Concave Mirror 46 Front Windshield Glass 50 Multimode Display of traffic information output switch 51 Display of dedicated traffic information output switch 60 Operation switch 70 Display control device 80 In-vehicle device 81 Radio wave beacon / antenna 82 Optical beacon / antenna 83 Radio antenna 84 VICS computer 85 Navigation computer 86 Storage means 87 Predetermined In-vehicle equipment that realizes the function of the above-mentioned 88 Audio output means 89 Other external information center antenna 100 Operation unit

Claims (11)

An operating device comprising information acquisition means for acquiring information and a switch for realizing a predetermined function,
When the switch is operated, after outputting information independent of the predetermined function acquired by the information acquisition unit, the operation device realizes the predetermined function related to the switch.   The operating device according to claim 1, wherein the information is traffic information.   The operation device according to claim 2, wherein the operation device includes a storage unit that stores the traffic information, and outputs only when there is traffic information that has not been output in the past.   The operation device according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the traffic information is output when a user operates a switch having a function of outputting voice information.   5. The operation device according to claim 1, further comprising a display that arranges the switch at a position where the user can operate and displays the arrangement of the switch at a position where the user can visually recognize the switch. Operating device.   The operation device according to claim 5, wherein the display is a head-up display that projects an arrangement of the switch on a windshield glass of a vehicle. An operating device comprising means for acquiring traffic information, a switch for realizing a predetermined function arranged at a position operable by a user, and a display for displaying the arrangement of the switch at a position visible to the user ,
Only when traffic information is acquired, a switch having a function of outputting traffic information is displayed on the display.   The operation device according to claim 7, wherein the display is a head-up display that projects an arrangement of the switch on a front windshield glass of a vehicle. An operating device comprising means for acquiring traffic information, a switch for realizing a predetermined function arranged at a position operable by a user, and a display for displaying the arrangement of the switch at a position visible to the user ,
An operation device that emphasizes the display of a switch having a function of outputting the traffic information displayed on the display when the traffic information is acquired.   The operation device according to claim 9, wherein the highlighting of the display of the switch is to enlarge the display of the switch or to emphasize the font of the display of the switch. 11. The operating device according to claim 9, wherein the display is a head-up display that projects an arrangement of the switch on a front windshield glass of a vehicle.

Images