JP2023137480A - Driving assistance device, driving assistance method, and program - Google Patents

Abstract

To perform an appropriate preliminary operation according to the situation around a target object.SOLUTION: A first preliminary operation control unit performs a first preliminary operation in which the first preliminary operation is suppressed when the degree of approach between a target object and a vehicle satisfies a second condition and when a specific condition is satisfied. A second preliminary operation control unit performs a second preliminary operation in which the second preliminary operation is suppressed when the degree of approach between the target object and the vehicle satisfies a third condition, when no space where the vehicle can travel is determined to be present in both travel paths on the lateral sides of the target object after avoiding contact by steering at the time point when the third condition is satisfied, and when the specific condition is satisfied. The specific condition is that, in front of the vehicle and within a first predetermined distance from the vehicle, a specific area is present where traffic congestion is predicted to occur in front of the vehicle.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

The present invention relates to a driving support device, a driving support method, and a program.

In recent years, inventions of vehicle control devices that perform automatic deceleration control and automatic steering control have been disclosed (for example, see Patent Document 1).

Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2020-50010

A vehicle capable of performing automatic steering control in addition to automatic deceleration control has a high probability of being able to quickly respond to sudden changes in the surrounding environment of the vehicle, and has a relatively high margin of control. On the other hand, if there is no avoidance space to the side of the target object, automatic steering control becomes difficult, so the margin of control is the same as a vehicle that only performs automatic deceleration control. With conventional technology, there are cases where it is not possible to perform operations in accordance with such differences in environment.

The present invention has been made in consideration of such circumstances, and aims to provide a driving support device, a driving support method, and a program that can perform an appropriate preparatory operation according to the surrounding situation of a target object. Make it one of the objectives.

A driving support device, a driving support method, and a program according to the present invention employ the following configuration.
(1): The driving support device according to one aspect of the present invention refers to the output of a detection device that detects the presence of an object that exists in front of a vehicle, and determines the degree of approach between a target object and the vehicle. a brake control unit that instructs a braking device of the vehicle to stop the vehicle when a first condition is met; and a steering device that instructs the steering device of the vehicle to avoid contact with the target object by steering. an avoidance control section, the braking control section includes a first preliminary motion control section and a second preliminary motion control section, and the first preliminary motion control section is configured to control the approach of the target object and the vehicle. If the degree of approach of the target object and the vehicle satisfies the second condition and does not satisfy the specific condition, a first preliminary operation is performed; A first preliminary operation is performed in which a preliminary operation is suppressed, and the second preliminary operation control unit performs the first preliminary operation at a time when the degree of approach between the target object and the vehicle satisfies a third condition, and the third condition is satisfied. If it is determined that there is no space in which the target object can proceed after the avoidance by the steering has been performed on any of the routes on the sides of the target object, and the specific conditions are not satisfied, a second preliminary operation is performed and the vehicle moves toward the target object. The degree of approach to the vehicle satisfies a third condition, and at the time the third condition is satisfied, there is a space in any of the travel paths to the side of the target object in which the vehicle can proceed after the avoidance by the steering is performed. If it is determined not to do so and the specific condition is satisfied, a second preliminary motion is performed in which the second preliminary motion is suppressed, and the first condition is a condition that is satisfied when the degree of approach is higher than the second condition. The second condition is a condition that is satisfied when the degree of approach is higher than the third condition, and the specific condition is that the vehicle is located in front of the vehicle and within a first predetermined distance from the vehicle. This means that there is a specific area ahead where a traffic jam is expected to occur.

(2): In the aspect of (1) above, the specific condition is that the specific area exists in front of the target object and within a second predetermined distance from the target object.

(3): In the aspect of (1) or (2) above, the specific condition is that the specific area exists behind the target object and within a third predetermined distance from the target object. .

(4): In any of the aspects (1) to (3) above, the specific area includes a toll road entrance, a toll road exit, a service area entrance, a tunnel entrance, and a branch road branching from the main road. The starting point, the point where a branch road joins the main line, or near these points.

(5): In any of the aspects (1) to (4) above, suppressing the first preliminary operation or the second preliminary operation refers to the timing of performing the first preliminary operation or the second preliminary operation. It's about delaying.

(6): In any of the aspects (1) to (5) above, the first preliminary operation or the second preliminary operation is an operation that increases the deceleration rate of the vehicle or notifies the driver of the vehicle. This is an action to perform.

(7): In any of the aspects (1) to (6) above, the first preliminary operation or the second preliminary operation is an operation that increases the deceleration rate of the vehicle, and the first preliminary operation Alternatively, suppressing the second preliminary operation means suppressing the degree of increase in the deceleration rate.

(8): In any of the aspects (1) to (7) above, the first preliminary operation or the second preliminary operation is an operation for notifying a driver of the vehicle, and the first preliminary operation Alternatively, suppressing the second preliminary operation means suppressing the degree of notification given to the driver of the vehicle.

(9): In any one of the above (1) to (8), the first preliminary operation control unit or the second preliminary operation control unit may control the degree of suppression, depending on the type of the specific area; or determine the mode of suppression.

(10): In the driving support method according to another aspect of the present invention, the driving support device refers to the output of a detection device that detects the presence of an object that exists in front of the vehicle, and determines whether the object is a target object among the objects. a steering device of the vehicle to instruct a braking device of the vehicle to stop the vehicle and avoid contact with the target object by steering when the degree of approach with the vehicle satisfies a first condition; If the degree of approach between the target object and the vehicle satisfies a second condition and the specific condition is not satisfied, a first preliminary operation is performed, and the degree of approach between the target object and the vehicle satisfies the second condition. and when the specific condition is satisfied, a first preliminary operation is performed in which the first preliminary operation is suppressed, and the degree of approach between the target object and the vehicle satisfies a third condition, and the point in time when the third condition is satisfied. In the step, if it is determined that there is no space in which the target object can proceed after the avoidance by the steering is performed on any of the routes on the sides of the target object, and the specific condition is not satisfied, a second preliminary operation is performed, and the second preparatory operation is performed. The degree of approach between the target object and the vehicle satisfies a third condition, and at the time when the third condition is satisfied, it is possible to proceed to any of the lanes to the side of the target object after avoiding by the steering. When it is determined that there is no space and the specific condition is satisfied, a second preliminary motion is performed in which the second preliminary motion is suppressed, and the first condition is satisfied when the degree of approach is higher than the second condition. The second condition is a condition that is satisfied when the degree of approach is higher than the third condition, and the specific condition is that the vehicle is located in front of the vehicle and within a first predetermined distance from the vehicle. There is a specific area in front of the vehicle where traffic congestion is predicted to occur.

(11): A program according to another aspect of the present invention causes a computer to refer to the output of a detection device that detects the presence of an object that exists in front of a vehicle, and causes a computer to refer to an output of a detection device that detects the presence of an object that is present in front of a vehicle, and to detect a difference between a target object among the objects and the vehicle. When the degree of approach satisfies a first condition, instructing a braking device of the vehicle to stop the vehicle, and instructing a steering device of the vehicle to avoid contact with the target object by steering. and a process of performing a first preliminary operation if the degree of approach between the target object and the vehicle satisfies a second condition and does not satisfy a specific condition; If the condition is satisfied and the specific condition is satisfied, the process of performing the first preliminary movement in which the first preliminary movement is suppressed and the degree of approach between the target object and the vehicle satisfy a third condition, and the third condition is satisfied. At the time when the specific condition is satisfied, it is determined that there is no space in which the target object can proceed after the avoidance by the steering is performed on any of the routes on the sides of the target object, and if the specific condition is not satisfied, a second preliminary operation is performed. and the degree of approach between the target object and the vehicle satisfies a third condition, and at the time the third condition is satisfied, the avoidance by the steering is performed on any of the running paths to the side of the target object. a process of performing a second preliminary movement in which a second preliminary movement is suppressed when it is determined that there is no space in which the movement can proceed after performing the movement and the specific condition is satisfied; and the first condition is greater than the second condition. , is a condition that is satisfied when the degree of approach is high, the second condition is a condition that is satisfied when the degree of approach is higher than the third condition, and the specific condition is a condition that is satisfied when the degree of approach is higher than the third condition. There is a specific area within a first predetermined distance from the vehicle where a traffic jam is predicted to occur in front of the vehicle.

According to the above aspect, it is possible to perform an appropriate preparatory motion according to the surrounding situation of the target object.

FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram of a vehicle in which a driving support device according to an embodiment is installed. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an overview of the functions of the driving support device. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of an operation scene of a steering avoidance control section. FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining a preliminary operation. It is a flow chart which shows an example of the flow of processing performed by a driving support device. FIG. 2 is a diagram (part 1) for explaining control that is executed when specific conditions are met. FIG. 2 is a diagram (part 2) for explaining control that is executed when specific conditions are met. FIG. 3 is a diagram (part 3) for explaining control that is executed when specific conditions are met. FIG. 4 is a diagram (part 4) for explaining control that is executed when specific conditions are met. FIG. 4 is a diagram (part 4) for explaining control that is executed when specific conditions are met. It is a diagram showing an example of an entrance to a toll road. It is a figure showing an example of a branch road. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a connection area. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of the contents of control pattern information 140. FIG.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, embodiments of a driving support device, a driving support method, and a program of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[overall structure]
FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram of a vehicle M in which a driving support device 100 according to an embodiment is mounted. The vehicle M is, for example, a two-wheeled, three-wheeled, or four-wheeled vehicle, and its driving source is an internal combustion engine such as a diesel engine or a gasoline engine, an electric motor, or a combination thereof. The electric motor operates using electric power generated by a generator connected to an internal combustion engine, or electric power discharged from a secondary battery or a fuel cell.

The vehicle M includes, for example, a camera 10, a radar device 12, a LIDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) 14, an object recognition device 16, an HMI (Human Machine Interface) 30, a vehicle sensor 40, and a navigation device 50. , a driving operator 80, a driving support device 100, a driving force output device 200, a brake device 210, and a steering device 220 are installed. These devices and devices are connected to each other via multiplex communication lines such as CAN (Controller Area Network) communication lines, serial communication lines, wireless communication networks, and the like. Note that the configuration shown in FIG. 1 is just an example, and a part of the configuration may be omitted, or another configuration may be added.

The camera 10 is, for example, a digital camera that uses a solid-state imaging device such as a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) or a CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor). The camera 10 is attached to any location of a vehicle (hereinafter referred to as vehicle M) in which the vehicle system 1 is mounted. When photographing the front, the camera 10 is attached to the upper part of the front windshield, the rear surface of the room mirror, or the like. For example, the camera 10 periodically and repeatedly images the surroundings of the vehicle M. Camera 10 may be a stereo camera.

The radar device 12 emits radio waves such as millimeter waves around the vehicle M, and detects radio waves (reflected waves) reflected by an object to detect at least the position (distance and direction) of the object. The radar device 12 is attached to an arbitrary location on the vehicle M. The radar device 12 may detect the position and velocity of an object using an FM-CW (Frequency Modulated Continuous Wave) method.

The LIDAR 14 irradiates light (or electromagnetic waves with a wavelength close to light) around the vehicle M and measures scattered light. The LIDAR 14 detects the distance to the target based on the time from light emission to light reception. The irradiated light is, for example, pulsed laser light. LIDAR 14 is attached to any location on vehicle M.

The object recognition device 16 performs sensor fusion processing on detection results from some or all of the camera 10, radar device 12, and LIDAR 14 to recognize the position, type, speed, etc. of the object. The object recognition device 16 outputs the recognition result to the driving support device 100. The object recognition device 16 may output the detection results of the camera 10, radar device 12, and LIDAR 14 as they are to the driving support device 100. The object recognition device 16 may be omitted from the vehicle system 1. Some or all of the camera 10, radar device 12, LIDAR 14, and object recognition device 16 are examples of "detection devices."

The HMI 30 presents various information to the occupants of the vehicle M, and also accepts input operations from the occupants. The HMI 30 includes various display devices, speakers, buzzers, vibration generators (vibrators), touch panels, switches, keys, and the like.

The vehicle sensor 40 includes a vehicle speed sensor that detects the speed of the vehicle M, an acceleration sensor that detects the acceleration, a yaw rate sensor that detects the angular velocity around the vertical axis, a direction sensor that detects the direction of the vehicle M, and the like.

The navigation device 50 includes, for example, a GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) receiver, a guidance control unit, a storage unit that stores map information, and the like. The GNSS receiver identifies the position of vehicle M based on signals received from GNSS satellites. The position of the vehicle M may be specified or complemented by an INS (Inertial Navigation System) using the output of the vehicle sensor 40. The guidance control unit, for example, determines a route from the position of the vehicle M specified by the GNSS receiver (or any input position) to the destination input by the occupant, with reference to map information, The HMI 30 is made to output guidance information so that the vehicle M travels along the route. Map information is, for example, information in which a road shape is expressed by links indicating roads and nodes connected by the links. The map information may include road curvature, POI (Point Of Interest) information, and the like. The navigation device 50 may transmit the current position and destination of the vehicle M to the navigation server via the communication device, and may acquire the route from the navigation server.

The driving controls 80 include, for example, an accelerator pedal, a brake pedal, a steering wheel, a shift lever, and other controls. A sensor is attached to the driving operator 80 to detect the amount of operation or the presence or absence of the operation, and the detection result is transmitted to some or all of the driving force output device 200, the brake device 210, and the steering device 220. Output.

The driving force output device 200 outputs driving force (torque) for driving the vehicle to the driving wheels. The driving force output device 200 includes, for example, a combination of an internal combustion engine, an electric motor, a transmission, and the like, and an ECU (Electronic Control Unit) that controls these. The ECU controls the above configuration according to information input from the driving support device 100 or information input from the driving operator 80.

The brake device 210 includes, for example, a brake caliper, a cylinder that transmits hydraulic pressure to the brake caliper, an electric motor that generates hydraulic pressure in the cylinder, and an ECU. The ECU controls the electric motor according to information input from the driving support device 100 or information input from the driving operator 80 so that brake torque corresponding to the braking operation is output to each wheel. The brake device 210 may include, as a backup mechanism, a mechanism that transmits hydraulic pressure generated by operating a brake pedal included in the driving operator 80 to a cylinder via a master cylinder. Note that the brake device 210 is not limited to the configuration described above, and may be an electronically controlled hydraulic brake device that controls an actuator according to information input from the driving support device 100 and transmits the hydraulic pressure of the master cylinder to the cylinder. good.

Steering device 220 includes, for example, a steering ECU and an electric motor. For example, the electric motor applies force to a rack and pinion mechanism to change the direction of the steered wheels. The steering ECU drives the electric motor to change the direction of the steered wheels according to information input from the driving support device 100 or information input from the driving operator 80.

[Driving support device]
The driving support device 100 includes, for example, a braking control section 110, a steering avoidance control section 120, and a second preliminary operation control section 130. The braking control section 110 includes a first preliminary operation control section 112 , and the second preliminary operation control section 130 includes a steering avoidance possibility determining section 132 . These functional units are realized by, for example, a hardware processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) executing a program (software). In addition, some or all of these components are hardware (circuits) such as LSI (Large Scale Integration), ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array), and GPU (Graphics Processing Unit). (including circuitry), or may be realized by collaboration between software and hardware. The program may be stored in advance in a storage device such as the HDD or flash memory (a storage device equipped with a non-transitory storage medium) of the driving support device 100, or may be stored in a removable storage device such as a DVD or CD-ROM. The information may be stored in a medium, and may be installed in the HDD or flash memory of the driving support device 100 by attaching the storage medium (non-transitory storage medium) to the drive device.

The instructions from the driving support device 100 to the driving force output device 200, the brake device 210, and the steering device 220 are executed by the driving force output device 200 with priority over the detection results from the driving operator 80. , the brake device 210, and the steering device 220. Regarding braking, if the braking force based on the operation amount of the brake pedal is greater than the instruction from the driving support device 100, the latter may be set to be performed with priority. Furthermore, communication priority in the in-vehicle LAN may be used as a mechanism for preferentially executing instructions from the driving support device 100.

FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an overview of the functions of the driving support device 100. Hereinafter, each part of the driving support device 100 will be explained with reference to this figure and FIG. 1. In FIG. 2, vehicle M is traveling on a three-lane road and is in lane L2 in the center. _DM is the traveling direction of the vehicle M.

The brake control unit 110 refers to the output of the detection device (described above) that detects the presence of an object in front of the vehicle M, and determines when the degree of approach between the target object TO and the vehicle M satisfies the first condition. Then, the controller instructs the brake device 210 and/or the driving force output device 200 to decelerate and stop the vehicle M. The target object TO is an object that is on the same track as the vehicle M and in the direction of travel of the vehicle M, and is an object that the vehicle M should avoid contact with, excluding objects that can be climbed over such as manholes. The brake control unit 110 extracts such an object and sets it as the target object TO. In the example of FIG. 2, the conventional other vehicle at the rear end is set as the target object TO. The running road is, for example, a lane, but it may also be a virtual lane that is virtually set by the vehicle M on a road surface where road markings do not exist. The same applies to the following description.

"Degree of approach" is expressed by various index values indicating the degree of approach between objects. For example, the "degree of approach" is TTC (Time To Collision), which is an index value obtained by dividing the distance by the relative speed (the direction in which they approach each other is positive). Note that when the relative speed is negative (in the direction of moving away from each other), TTC is temporarily set to infinity. TTC is an index value indicating that the smaller the value, the higher the "degree of approach." And satisfying the "first condition" means that, for example, TTC is less than the first threshold Th1. The first threshold Th1 is, for example, a value of about one comma [sec]. Instead of TTC, an index value having similar properties, such as headway time, distance, or other index values, may be used as the "degree of approach." Further, TTC adjusted by taking into account acceleration and jerk may be used as the "approach degree". In the following description, it is assumed that the "degree of approach" is TTC.

If the TTC is less than the first threshold Th1, the brake control unit 110 instructs the brake device 210 and/or the driving force output device 200 to output a braking force that decelerates the vehicle M at a first deceleration B1, for example. do. The first deceleration B1 is, for example, a deceleration of about 0 tenths [G] (close to 1). Thereby, the brake control unit 110 quickly decelerates and stops the vehicle M to avoid contact with the target object TO. The ECU of the brake device 210 and the driving force output device 200 has the function of determining the brake output, regeneration control amount, engine brake amount, etc. from the instructed deceleration. Each control amount is determined based on the speed of M. This is a known technique and detailed explanation will be omitted.

The operation of the first preliminary operation control section 112 will be described later, and the steering avoidance control section 120 will be explained first.

FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of an operation scene of the steering avoidance control section 120. If it is determined that it is difficult for the braking control unit 110 to stop the vehicle M in front of the target object TO, the steering avoidance control unit 120 controls the steering avoidance control unit 120 to move the vehicle M along the running path to the side of the target object TO (for example, lanes L1 and L2). If it is determined that there is a space, the steering device 220 generates an avoidance trajectory ET and causes the vehicle M to proceed along the avoidance trajectory ET. (avoid steering). For example, the steering avoidance control unit 120 determines whether an object exists in a side area extending from slightly in front of the target vehicle to the rear on both sides of the target vehicle TO, such as areas A2L and A2R shown in FIG. If the space does not exist, it is determined that there is a space in which the vehicle M can proceed on the running path on the side of the target object TO. The determination as to whether it is difficult for the brake control unit 110 to stop the vehicle M in front of the target object TO may be performed by the brake control unit 110 or may be performed by the steering avoidance control unit 120. Good too. The steering avoidance control unit 120 also recognizes the boundaries of the road by recognizing, for example, white lines and road shoulders in camera images, and if either of the driveable areas A2L or A2R does not exist, for example, the lanes L1 and L3 If either one does not exist, it may be determined that an object exists in the area.

Steering avoidance is performed when the target object TO decelerates unexpectedly, or when an object other than the recognized target object TO intervenes between the vehicle M and the target object TO, and a new target vehicle TO This is a scene where a sudden change in the environment around the vehicle has occurred, such as when the vehicle is set as In such situations, it may not be possible to cope with the deceleration calculated in advance to stop the vehicle in front of the target vehicle TO, but by having a steering avoidance function, it is possible to respond to sudden changes in the surrounding environment of the vehicle. You can increase the probability.

[Preliminary operation]
The processing of the first preliminary operation control section 112 and the second preliminary operation control section 130 will be described below. FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining the preliminary operation.

The first preliminary operation control unit 112 controls the driver of the vehicle M when the degree of approach between the target object TO and the vehicle M satisfies the second condition (for example, when the TTC is less than the second threshold Th2). A first preliminary operation is performed to notify the existence of the target object TO. The first preliminary operation is, for example, outputting a braking force that decelerates the vehicle M at the second deceleration B2 from when the TTC becomes less than the second threshold Th2 until it becomes less than the first threshold Th1. This is an operation instructing the brake device 210 and/or the traveling driving force output device 200. The second deceleration B2 is a deceleration smaller (closer to zero) than the first deceleration B1. The second threshold Th2 is a value larger than the first threshold Th1. Therefore, the first condition is a condition that is satisfied when the degree of approach is higher than the second condition.

The second preliminary operation control unit 130 controls the second preparatory operation control unit 130 when the degree of approach between the target object TO and the vehicle M satisfies the third condition (for example, TTC is less than the third threshold Th3), and at the time when the third condition is satisfied. , when it is determined that there is no space in which the vehicle M can proceed after avoidance by steering is performed on any of the lanes on the sides of the target object TO, the first step is to notify the driver of the vehicle M of the existence of the target object TO. 2 Perform preliminary movements. The determination regarding the space in which the vehicle can proceed is performed by the steering avoidance determination unit 132. The third threshold Th3 is a value larger than the second threshold Th2. Therefore, the second condition is a condition that is satisfied when the degree of approach is higher than the third condition.

For example, when the TTC becomes less than the third threshold Th3, the steering avoidance determination unit 132 performs steering control that extends from slightly in front of the target vehicle to the rear on both sides of the target vehicle TO, as shown in areas A1L and A1R shown in FIG. It is determined whether or not an object exists within the lateral region where the object TO is located, and if there is no object, it is determined that there is a space in which the vehicle M can proceed on the running path to the side of the target object TO. Each of the areas A1L and A1R is set to be larger than each of the areas A2L and A2R, for example, in consideration of future uncertain factors. Similarly to the steering avoidance control unit 120, the steering avoidance determination unit 132 also recognizes the boundaries of the road by recognizing, for example, white lines and road shoulders in camera images, and in the first place, if either of the driveable areas A1L or A1R is If it does not exist, for example, if either lane L1 or L3 does not exist, it may be determined that an object exists in the area. In the example of FIG. 4, since there is no object in the region A1R, the steering avoidance determination unit 132 determines that there is a space in which the vehicle M can proceed on the road on the side of the target object TO.

The second preliminary operation is, for example, to first output a braking force that decelerates the vehicle M at the third deceleration B3 from when the TTC becomes less than the third threshold Th3 until it becomes less than the first threshold Th1. instructs the brake device 210 and/or the traveling driving force output device 200 to output a braking force that decelerates the vehicle M at the fourth deceleration B4. This is a commanding action. The third deceleration B3 is, for example, a deceleration smaller than the second deceleration B2 (close to zero), and the fourth deceleration B4 is larger than or about the same as the second deceleration, and 1 deceleration B1. The timing of switching from the third deceleration B3 to the fourth deceleration B4 may be set arbitrarily. For example, when the degree of approach between the target object TO and the vehicle M satisfies the 1.5th condition (for example, when TTC is less than the threshold Th1.5), the third deceleration B3 is switched to the fourth deceleration B4. It will be done. Condition 1.5 is a condition that is satisfied when the degree of approach is higher than the second condition. When the second condition is satisfied, the third deceleration B3 may be switched to the fourth deceleration B4.

In this way, the second preliminary operation is started at an earlier timing than the first preliminary operation, and is performed in multiple stages. As described above, in a situation where steering avoidance is possible, there is a high probability of being able to quickly respond to sudden changes in the surrounding environment of the vehicle, and the margin of control becomes relatively high. On the other hand, if there is no avoidance space to the side of the target object, it will be difficult to execute it even if the steering avoidance function is equipped, so the control margin can only be used to automatically stop. It will be no different from a vehicle. That is, in a situation where steering avoidance is difficult, it is preferable to alert the driver of vehicle M more quickly and effectively than in a situation where steering avoidance is possible. According to the present embodiment, the second preparatory motion is started at an earlier timing than the first preparatory motion and is performed in multiple stages, thereby making it possible to perform an appropriate preparatory motion according to the surrounding situation of the target object. It can be carried out.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the flow of processing executed by the driving support device 100.

First, the brake control unit 110 identifies the target object TO (step S1). Next, the second preliminary operation control unit 130 determines whether the TTC between the vehicle M and the target object TO is less than the third threshold Th3 (step S2). If the TTC between the vehicle M and the target object TO is greater than or equal to the third threshold Th3, the process returns to step S1.

If it is determined that the TTC between the vehicle M and the target object TO is less than the third threshold Th3, the steering avoidance determination unit 132 of the second preliminary operation control unit 130 determines that the vehicle M is on the running path on the side of the target object TO. It is determined whether there is a space in which the vehicle can advance (step S3).

If it is determined that there is no space in which the vehicle M can proceed on the running path on the side of the target object TO, the second preliminary operation control unit 130 executes the second preliminary operation (step S4). Next, the second preliminary operation control unit 130 determines whether the TTC between the vehicle M and the target object TO has increased to be equal to or greater than the third threshold Th3 (step S5). If it is determined that the TTC between the vehicle M and the target object TO has increased to be equal to or greater than the third threshold Th3, the process returns to step S1.

If it is not determined that the TTC between the vehicle M and the target object TO has increased to be equal to or higher than the third threshold Th3, the brake control unit 110 determines that the TTC between the vehicle M and the target object TO is less than the first threshold Th1. It is determined whether or not (step S6). If it is determined that the TTC between the vehicle M and the target object TO is greater than or equal to the first threshold Th1, the process returns to step S3. If a positive determination is obtained in step S3, the second preliminary operation is stopped, and the processes from step S8 onwards are executed. If it is determined that the TTC between the vehicle M and the target object TO is less than the first threshold Th1, the braking control unit 110 applies a braking force to the brake device 210 and/or the travel drive to decelerate the vehicle M at the first deceleration B1. The force output device 200 is caused to output to decelerate and stop the vehicle M (step S7). At this time, as described above, steering avoidance may be performed instead of (or in addition to) decelerating and stopping the vehicle M.

If an affirmative determination is obtained in step S3, that is, the TTC between the vehicle M and the target object TO is less than the third threshold Th3, and there is a space on the running path to the side of the target object TO in which the vehicle M can proceed. If so, the first preliminary operation control unit 112 of the brake control unit 110 determines whether the TTC between the vehicle M and the target object TO is less than the second threshold Th2 (step S8). If it is determined that the TTC between the vehicle M and the target object TO is greater than or equal to the second threshold Th2, the process returns to step S1.

If it is determined that the TTC between the vehicle M and the target object TO is less than the second threshold Th2, the first preliminary operation control unit 112 executes the first preliminary operation (step S9). Next, the first preliminary operation control unit 112 determines whether the TTC between the vehicle M and the target object TO has increased to be equal to or greater than the second threshold Th2 (step S10). If it is determined that the TTC between the vehicle M and the target object TO has increased to be equal to or greater than the second threshold Th2, the process returns to step S1.

If it is not determined that the TTC between the vehicle M and the target object TO has increased to be equal to or higher than the second threshold Th2, the brake control unit 110 determines that the TTC between the vehicle M and the target object TO is less than the first threshold Th1. It is determined whether or not (step S11). If it is determined that the TTC between the vehicle M and the target object TO is greater than or equal to the first threshold Th1, the process returns to step S3. If a negative determination is obtained in step S3, the first preliminary operation is stopped, and the processes from step S4 onwards are executed. If it is determined that the TTC between the vehicle M and the target object TO is less than the first threshold Th1, the braking control unit 110 causes the brake device 210 and/or the traveling driving force output device 200 to output the first deceleration B1. The vehicle M is decelerated and stopped (step S7).

According to the embodiment described above, the degree of approach between the target object TO and the vehicle M satisfies the third condition, and at the time when the third condition is satisfied, the vehicle M does not move along any of the running paths to the sides of the target object TO. If it is determined that there is no space in which to proceed after avoiding by steering, a second preliminary operation is performed that is started at an earlier timing than the first preliminary operation, so that the vehicle can move according to the surrounding situation of the target object TO. and perform appropriate preparatory actions.

In the embodiment described above, in either the first preliminary operation or the second preliminary operation, instead of outputting the braking force, a display, an audio output, a vibration output, etc. may be performed to call attention to the braking force. In this case, as an example where the second preliminary operation is performed in multiple stages, instead of outputting the braking force in stages while changing the degree of deceleration as described above, Different degrees of attention (contrast, brightness, color, etc.), different content or volume of the first audio output and second and subsequent audio outputs, higher vibration output from the second vibration output than the first vibration output, etc. can be mentioned.

In the above embodiment, if the branch road to the destination set in the navigation device 50 is on either the left or right side of the lane in which the vehicle M is traveling, the lane change is forced during the preliminary operation. You may go. In this way, as a result, the vehicle M can be moved in a direction closer to the destination, and the vehicle M can be guided to a state where the target object is not near the vehicle M.

In the example described above, the process when the vehicle M does not satisfy the specific conditions has been described. Vehicle M performs different processing when the specific condition is met than when the specific condition is not met. The specific condition is that there is a specific area in front of the vehicle M within a first predetermined distance from the vehicle M where a traffic jam is predicted to occur. The specific condition is, for example, that a specific area exists in front of the target object and within a second predetermined distance from the target object. The specific condition is that the specific area exists behind the target object and within a third predetermined distance from the target object. For example, the third predetermined distance is shorter than the second predetermined distance.

Specific areas include the entrance of a toll road, the exit of a toll road, the entrance of a service area, the entrance of a tunnel, the starting point of a branch road branching from the main road, the point where a branch road joins the main road, or the vicinity thereof. . In addition to the above examples, the specific area may be any area where traffic congestion is predicted to occur. For example, the driving support device 100 identifies a specific area based on map information and the recognition result of the object recognition device 16.

[Control executed when specific conditions are met (1)]
When the degree of approach between the target object and the vehicle M satisfies the second condition and does not satisfy the specific condition, the first preliminary operation control unit 112 performs the first preliminary operation described above to reduce the approach between the target object and the vehicle M. If the degree satisfies the second condition and also satisfies the specific condition, a first preliminary operation is performed in which the above-described first preliminary operation is suppressed.

Suppression includes one or both of Suppression Technique 1 and Suppression Technique 2. The first method of suppression is to delay the timing of performing the preliminary operation. Suppression method 2 is to suppress the degree of increase in the degree of deceleration more than the degree of increase in the degree of deceleration executed in the first preliminary operation (or the second preliminary operation). Suppression method 2 may be to suppress the degree of notification more than the degree of notification performed in the first preliminary operation (or second preliminary operation). An example of these will be described below.

FIG. 6 is a diagram (part 1) for explaining control executed when specific conditions are met. If the degree of approach between the target object TO and the vehicle M satisfies the second condition and also satisfies the specific condition, the first preliminary operation control unit 112 does not perform the first preliminary operation and causes the target object TO and the vehicle M to approach each other. When the degree satisfies the second # condition (for example, when the TTC is less than the second threshold Th2#), a first preliminary operation is performed to notify the driver of the vehicle M of the existence of the target object TO. The second threshold Th2# is a value smaller than the second threshold Th2 and larger than the first threshold Th1. Therefore, the second # condition is a condition that is satisfied when the degree of approach is higher than the second condition. In the example of FIG. 6, the specific condition is satisfied because the tunnel TN exists in front of the target object TO. The same applies to FIGS. 7 to 9, which will be described later.

FIG. 7 is a diagram (Part 2) for explaining control executed when specific conditions are met. The explanation will focus on the differences from FIG. 6. The first preliminary operation control unit 112 performs the first preliminary operation when the degree of approach between the target object TO and the vehicle M satisfies the second condition and also satisfies the specific condition. In this case, the degree of the first preliminary operation is suppressed more than the first preliminary operation performed when the specific condition is not satisfied. For example, the first preliminary operation control unit 112 controls the vehicle M at a deceleration B2 when the specific condition is not met, and controls the vehicle M at a deceleration B2# when the specific condition is met. Deceleration B2# is smaller than deceleration B2. The first preliminary operation control unit 112 may control the deceleration to the deceleration B2 when the degree of approach between the target object TO and the vehicle M satisfies the second # condition and also satisfies the specific condition.

In the above example, an example in which deceleration is suppressed has been described, but instead (in addition) to this, the degree of notification may be suppressed. Further, the process of suppressing the degree of deceleration or notification and the process of delaying the timing of deceleration or notification may be performed in a superimposed manner. For example, the timing of deceleration or notification may be delayed, and at that time, the degree of deceleration or notification may be suppressed.

For example, other vehicles that are target objects tend to decelerate in or near a specific area such as a tunnel. In this case, if the first preliminary operation (or the second preliminary operation) is executed without being suppressed, it may place an excessive burden on the occupants of the vehicle M. For example, even if the other vehicle decelerates temporarily, if it accelerates immediately after entering a tunnel, vehicle M and the target object will approach each other for a short time, but will soon maintain a sufficient distance between them. It may become. In such a case, it may not be suitable for the first preliminary operation (or the second preliminary operation) to be executed without being suppressed. Therefore, in the present embodiment, as described above, when the specific conditions are met, the driving support device 100 performs an appropriate preliminary operation according to the surrounding situation of the target object by suppressing the first preliminary operation. be able to.

[Control executed when specific conditions are met (2)]
FIG. 8 is a diagram (part 3) for explaining control executed when specific conditions are met. The second preliminary operation control unit 130 controls the vehicle M to move along any of the lateral paths of the target object TO by steering when the degree of approach between the target object TO and the vehicle M satisfies the third condition, and the third condition is satisfied. If it is determined that there is no space in which the vehicle can proceed after the avoidance, and specific conditions are met, the second preliminary operation is not performed. The second preliminary operation control unit 130 controls the second preparatory operation control unit 130 when the degree of approach between the target object TO and the vehicle M satisfies the third # condition and the third # condition is satisfied (for example, when the TTC is less than the third threshold Th3 #). In some cases), the second preliminary operation is performed if it is determined that there is no space in which the target object TO can proceed after avoiding it by steering on any of its side routes, and a specific condition is met. . The third threshold Th3# is a value smaller than the third threshold Th and larger than the second threshold Th1.5. Therefore, the third # condition is a condition that is satisfied when the degree of approach is higher than the third condition.

FIG. 9 is a diagram (part 4) for explaining control executed when specific conditions are met. The explanation will focus on the differences from FIG. 8. The second preliminary operation control unit 130 controls the vehicle M to move along any of the lateral paths of the target object TO by steering when the degree of approach between the target object TO and the vehicle M satisfies the third condition, and the third condition is satisfied. If it is determined that there is no space in which the vehicle can proceed after the avoidance, and a specific condition is satisfied, the second preliminary operation is performed. In this case, the degree of the second preliminary operation is suppressed more than the second preliminary operation performed when the specific condition is not satisfied. For example, second preliminary operation control unit 130 controls vehicle M at deceleration B3 when the specific condition is not met, and controls vehicle M at deceleration B3# when the specific condition is met. Deceleration B3# is smaller than deceleration B3. The second preliminary operation control unit 130 may control the deceleration to the deceleration B3 when the degree of approach between the target object TO and the vehicle M satisfies the third # condition and also satisfies the specific condition.

In this embodiment, as described above, the driving support device 100 is able to perform an appropriate preliminary operation according to the surrounding situation of the target object by suppressing the second preliminary operation when the specific condition is satisfied. can.

[Control executed when specific conditions are met (3)]
Also when a specific area such as a tunnel entrance exists behind the target object, the first preliminary operation or the second preliminary operation may be suppressed as described above. FIG. 10 is a diagram (part 5) for explaining control executed when specific conditions are met. The explanation will focus on the differences from FIG. 9. As shown in FIG. 10, even after the other vehicle, which is the target object, has passed through the tunnel entrance, the other vehicle may be decelerating. In such a case, the driving support device 100 may suppress the first preliminary operation or the second preliminary operation.

As described above, by suppressing the first preliminary operation or the second preliminary operation when the specific conditions are met, the driving support device 100 can perform an appropriate preliminary operation according to the surrounding situation of the target object. can.

[Control executed when specific conditions are met (4)]
In the above example, the specific area was explained as the tunnel entrance, but in addition to (instead of) the specific area may be the entrance or exit of a toll road (expressway), or any other area provided when entering or exiting. It may also be a gate. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of an entrance (G) of a toll road.

Other vehicles temporarily slow down to pass through toll road entrances, but they tend to accelerate immediately. The main purpose of the first preliminary operation or the second preliminary operation is to notify the driver of the vehicle M of the approach when the vehicle M approaches another vehicle when the other vehicle is stopped due to traffic congestion or the like. . In situations where other vehicles slow down due to factors other than congestion, such as at the entrance to a toll road, operating the first preliminary operation or the second preliminary operation without suppressing it may not be suitable for the driver. Therefore, as described above, when the specific conditions are met, the driving support device 100 performs an appropriate preliminary operation according to the surrounding situation of the target object by suppressing the first preliminary operation or the second preliminary operation. be able to. Note that if the entrance or exit of the toll road exists behind the target object TO, the first preliminary operation or the second preliminary operation is not suppressed, and the first preliminary operation or the second preliminary operation is canceled. Good too.

[Control executed when specific conditions are met (5)]
The specific area may be at or near the starting point of a branch road that branches off from the main line. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of a branch road. In the example of FIG. 12, vehicle M and target object TO exist in lane L1. A branch road that branches off from the lane L1 is provided in front of the target object TO. The connection point between the lane L1 and the branch road (the starting point of the branch road) is the branch point BP.

Other vehicles, which are target objects, may temporarily decelerate before the branch point BP. Even in such a case, the driving support device 100 suppresses the first preparatory action or the second preparatory action when the specific conditions are met, thereby performing an appropriate preparatory action according to the surrounding situation of the target object. It can be carried out. Note that even when a service area exists in front of the target object TO, the first preliminary operation or the second preliminary operation may be similarly suppressed.

[Control executed when specific conditions are met (6)]
The specific area may be at or near a connection area where the branch line is connected to the main line. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a connection area. In the example of FIG. 13, vehicle M and target object TO exist in lane L1, which is a branch line. The target object TO exists in the connection area AR. Lane L1 disappears in front of target object TO.

The other vehicle that is the target object may temporarily decelerate in order to adjust the timing of merging within the connection area AR. In such a case, the driving support device 100 can perform an appropriate preliminary operation according to the surrounding situation of the target object by suppressing the first preliminary operation or the second preliminary operation when the specific conditions are satisfied. .

[Control executed when specific conditions are met (7)]
The first preliminary operation control section 112 or the second preliminary operation control section 130 may change the suppression pattern depending on the type of the specific area. The first preliminary operation control section 112 or the second preliminary operation control section 130 determines a control pattern by referring to the control pattern information 140 stored in the storage device of the driving support device 100, for example. FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of the contents of the control pattern information 140. The control pattern information 140 includes restriction pattern information for the first preliminary operation and restriction pattern information for the second preliminary operation. Each of the restriction pattern information for the first preliminary operation and the restriction pattern information for the second preliminary operation is associated with a control pattern for each specific area.

The control pattern for each specific region is, for example, information in which the timing at which the first preliminary operation or the second preliminary operation is performed (delay timing) is associated with the degree of deceleration or notification corresponding to the operation. The control pattern is, for example, information generated experimentally or based on the behavior of the vehicle when passing through a specific area. The control pattern is generated, for example, so as to reduce the driver's sense of discomfort or to suppress excessive execution of the first preliminary operation or the second preliminary operation. For example, when the specific area is a tunnel, the first preliminary operation control unit 112 adopts pattern A, and when the specific area is an entrance to a toll road, the first preliminary operation control unit 112 adopts pattern B. adopt. As a result, a more appropriate preliminary operation is performed according to the surrounding situation of the target object.

As described above, by controlling the first preliminary operation or the second preliminary operation, the driving support device 100 can perform an appropriate preliminary operation according to the surrounding situation of the target object.

The embodiment described above can be expressed as follows.
a storage medium for storing computer-readable instructions;
a processor connected to the storage medium;
the processor executing the computer-readable instructions to:
With reference to the output of a detection device that detects the presence of an object existing in front of the vehicle, if an index value obtained by dividing the distance between the target object and the vehicle among the objects by the relative speed is less than a first threshold value, performing one or both of the following: instructing a braking device of the vehicle to stop the vehicle; and instructing a steering device of the vehicle to avoid contact with the target object by steering;
performing a first preliminary operation when the index value is a second threshold and a specific condition is not satisfied;
If the index value is a second threshold and the specific condition is satisfied, performing a first preliminary operation that suppresses the first preliminary operation;
When the index value satisfies the less than a third threshold condition and the third threshold is satisfied, there is no space in any of the lateral travel paths of the target object in which the vehicle can proceed after the avoidance by the steering is performed. If it is determined that the specific condition is not satisfied, perform a second preliminary operation,
The index value satisfies the third threshold value, and at the time when the third threshold value is satisfied, there is no space in any of the travel paths to the side of the target object in which the target object can proceed after the avoidance by the steering is performed. If the determination is made and the specific condition is satisfied, perform a second preliminary operation that suppresses the second preliminary operation;
the first threshold is smaller than the second threshold;
the second threshold is smaller than the third threshold;
The specific condition is that there is a specific area in front of the vehicle within a first predetermined distance from the vehicle where a traffic jam is predicted to occur.
Driving support equipment.

Although the mode for implementing the present invention has been described above using embodiments, the present invention is not limited to these embodiments in any way, and various modifications and substitutions can be made without departing from the gist of the present invention. can be added.

10 Camera 12 Radar device 14 LIDAR
16 Object recognition device 80 Driving operator 100 Driving support device 110 Braking control section 112 First preliminary operation control section 120 Steering avoidance control section 130 Second preliminary operation control section 132 Steering avoidance possibility determination section 200 Traveling driving force output device 210 Brake device 220 Steering device

Claims (11)

Referring to the output of a detection device that detects the presence of an object in front of the vehicle, if the degree of approach between the target object and the vehicle satisfies a first condition, instructs the braking device of the vehicle. a brake control unit that stops the vehicle;
a steering avoidance control unit that instructs a steering device of the vehicle to avoid contact with the target object by steering;
Equipped with
The braking control section includes a first preliminary operation control section and a second preliminary operation control section,
The first preliminary operation control section includes:
If the degree of approach between the target object and the vehicle satisfies a second condition and does not satisfy a specific condition, performing a first preliminary operation;
If the degree of approach between the target object and the vehicle satisfies a second condition and also satisfies the specific condition, performing a first preliminary operation that suppresses the first preliminary operation;
The second preliminary operation control section includes:
The degree of approach between the target object and the vehicle satisfies a third condition, and at the time when the third condition is satisfied, it is possible to proceed to any of the lanes to the side of the target object after avoiding by the steering. If it is determined that the space does not exist and the specific condition is not satisfied, perform a second preliminary operation;
The degree of approach between the target object and the vehicle satisfies a third condition, and at the time when the third condition is satisfied, it is possible to proceed to any of the lanes to the side of the target object after avoiding by the steering. If it is determined that the space does not exist and the specific condition is satisfied, perform a second preliminary operation in which the second preliminary operation is suppressed;
The first condition is a condition that is satisfied when the degree of approach is higher than the second condition,
The second condition is a condition that is satisfied when the degree of approach is higher than the third condition,
The specific condition is that there is a specific area in front of the vehicle within a first predetermined distance from the vehicle where a traffic jam is predicted to occur.
Driving support equipment. The specific condition is that the specific area exists in front of the target object and within a second predetermined distance from the target object.
The driving support device according to claim 1. The specific condition is that the specific area exists behind the target object and within a third predetermined distance from the target object;
The driving support device according to claim 1 or 2. The specific area is the entrance of a toll road, the exit of a toll road, the entrance of a service area, the entrance of a tunnel, the starting point of a branch road branching from the main road, a place where the branch road joins the main road, or the vicinity thereof.
The driving support device according to any one of claims 1 to 3. Suppressing the first preliminary operation or the second preliminary operation means delaying the timing of performing the first preliminary operation or the second preliminary operation,
The driving support device according to any one of claims 1 to 4. The first preliminary operation or the second preliminary operation is an operation of increasing the deceleration rate of the vehicle, or an operation of notifying the driver of the vehicle.
The driving support device according to claim 5. The first preliminary operation or the second preliminary operation is an operation that increases the deceleration rate of the vehicle,
Suppression of the first preliminary operation or the second preliminary operation is to suppress the degree of increase in the deceleration rate;
The driving support device according to any one of claims 1 to 6. The first preliminary operation or the second preliminary operation is an operation for notifying a driver of the vehicle,
Suppression of the first preliminary operation or the second preliminary operation is to suppress the degree of notification given to the driver of the vehicle;
The driving support device according to any one of claims 1 to 7. The first preliminary operation control unit or the second preliminary operation control unit determines the degree of suppression or the mode of suppression according to the type of the specific area.
The driving support device according to any one of claims 1 to 8. The driving assistance device
Referring to the output of a detection device that detects the presence of an object in front of the vehicle, if the degree of approach between the target object and the vehicle satisfies a first condition, instructs the braking device of the vehicle. to stop the vehicle;
instructing a steering device of the vehicle to avoid contact with the target object by steering;
If the degree of approach between the target object and the vehicle satisfies a second condition and does not satisfy a specific condition, performing a first preliminary operation;
If the degree of approach between the target object and the vehicle satisfies a second condition and also satisfies the specific condition, performing a first preliminary operation that suppresses the first preliminary operation;
The degree of approach between the target object and the vehicle satisfies a third condition, and at the time when the third condition is satisfied, it is possible to proceed to any of the lanes to the side of the target object after avoiding by the steering. If it is determined that the space does not exist and the specific condition is not satisfied, perform a second preliminary operation;
The degree of approach between the target object and the vehicle satisfies a third condition, and at the time when the third condition is satisfied, it is possible to proceed to any of the lanes to the side of the target object after avoiding by the steering. If it is determined that the space does not exist and the specific condition is satisfied, perform a second preliminary operation in which the second preliminary operation is suppressed;
The first condition is a condition that is satisfied when the degree of approach is higher than the second condition,
The second condition is a condition that is satisfied when the degree of approach is higher than the third condition,
The specific condition is that there is a specific area in front of the vehicle within a first predetermined distance from the vehicle where a traffic jam is predicted to occur.
Driving support method. to the computer,
Referring to the output of a detection device that detects the presence of an object in front of the vehicle, if the degree of approach between the target object and the vehicle satisfies a first condition, instructs the braking device of the vehicle. stopping the vehicle;
A process of instructing a steering device of the vehicle to avoid contact with the target object by steering;
performing a first preliminary operation when the degree of approach between the target object and the vehicle satisfies a second condition and does not satisfy a specific condition;
If the degree of approach between the target object and the vehicle satisfies a second condition and also satisfies the specific condition, performing a first preliminary operation in which the first preliminary operation is suppressed;
The degree of approach between the target object and the vehicle satisfies a third condition, and at the time when the third condition is satisfied, it is possible to proceed to any of the lanes to the side of the target object after avoiding by the steering. a process of performing a second preliminary operation when it is determined that the space does not exist and the specific condition is not satisfied;
The degree of approach between the target object and the vehicle satisfies a third condition, and at the time when the third condition is satisfied, it is possible to proceed to any of the lanes to the side of the target object after avoiding by the steering. a process of performing a second preliminary movement in which the second preliminary movement is suppressed when it is determined that there is no such space and the specific condition is satisfied;
The first condition is a condition that is satisfied when the degree of approach is higher than the second condition,
The second condition is a condition that is satisfied when the degree of approach is higher than the third condition,
The specific condition is that there is a specific area in front of the vehicle within a first predetermined distance from the vehicle where a traffic jam is predicted to occur.
program.

Images