JP4379774B2 - Planning support system, method, program, apparatus and recording medium - Google Patents

Description

[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a technique for supporting vehicle planning.
[0002]
[Prior art]
Conventionally, when planning a vehicle, a two-dimensional drawing representing the outline of the vehicle is created, and whether the plan is good or bad is determined based on the drawing. And when there was a change in the plan, the drawing was made from scratch again.
[0003]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
Therefore, in the conventional planning work, a great amount of labor is expended in creating the drawings, and there is a problem that it takes a lot of time and cost. Furthermore, there is a problem that it is difficult to grasp the vehicle image in the two-dimensional drawing.
[0004]
Also, in the past, in the drawing creation process, there was a tendency to make the outer shape that should originally have a high degree of freedom by dragging by factors with a low degree of freedom, such as the occupant's living space. It was hard to be born.
[0005]
On the other hand, in the method of simply expressing the planned vehicle with computer graphics, to express a plurality of planned vehicles that differ only partially, the data of the entire planned vehicle is required independently, and the planned vehicle data There is a problem that it takes time to generate.
[0006]
The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems of the prior art, and an object of the present invention is to provide a technology capable of efficiently and effectively planning a vehicle. .
[0007]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
In order to achieve the above object, a system according to the present invention provides: Composed by computer, A planning support system that supports planning of a vehicle, and stores a plurality of reference models that represent the living space in the planned vehicle as three-dimensional data and a plurality of outer models that represent the outer shape of the planned vehicle as three-dimensional data. Storage means, first selection means for selecting one reference model from the plurality of reference models stored in the storage means, and one external model from the plurality of external models stored in the storage means The second selection means for selecting the vehicle, and the registration table for registering a plurality of planned vehicles when there is a new registration instruction for the planned vehicle, the reference model and the external model constituting the newly registered planned vehicle Registration means for registering the selection results by the first and second selection means, and when one of the registered planned vehicles registered in the registration table is selected, the registration table is The reference model and the external model constituting the registered planned vehicle are read from the storage means, the planned vehicle model is generated by combining the read reference model and the external model, and the generated planned vehicle model is And a planned vehicle model generation and display means for displaying.
[0010]
Above Planning vehicle model generation Display means When a plurality of registered planned vehicles registered in the registration table are selected, a planned vehicle model of each registered planned vehicle is generated, and these are simultaneously It is characterized by displaying.
[0011]
The reference model includes a seat model that represents the form of the seat of the planned vehicle with three-dimensional data,
The storage means stores a plurality of reference models having different sheet forms.
[0012]
The storage means stores a plurality of external models having different vehicle heights or wheel bases.
[0013]
In order to achieve the above object, the method according to the present invention supports vehicle planning. For the computer to run A planning support method, comprising: a plurality of reference models representing a living space in a planned vehicle with three-dimensional data; and a plurality of outer models representing the outline of the planned vehicle with three-dimensional data. Storage means A first selecting step for selecting one reference model from the plurality of stored reference models, and a second selection for selecting one outer model from the plurality of stored outer models. Process, When there is an instruction to newly register a planned vehicle, a selection result obtained by the first and second selection steps as the reference model and the external model constituting the newly registered planned vehicle in a registration table in which a plurality of planned vehicles are registered And when any registered planned vehicle registered in the registration table is selected, the reference model and the external model constituting the registered planned vehicle are referred to the registration table when the registered planned vehicle is selected. Read from storage means, read The reference model as well as The external model The Combined to generate planned vehicle model A planned vehicle model generation display process for displaying the generated planned vehicle model, It is characterized by including.
[0014]
In order to achieve the above object, a program according to the present invention is a planning support program for supporting planning of a vehicle, and includes a plurality of reference models and a planning vehicle in which a living space in the planning vehicle is represented by three-dimensional data on a computer. A plurality of external models that represent the external shape of the 3D data Storage means A first selecting step for selecting one reference model from the plurality of stored reference models, and a second selection for selecting one outer model from the plurality of stored outer models. Process, When there is an instruction to newly register a planned vehicle, a selection result obtained by the first and second selection steps as the reference model and the external model constituting the newly registered planned vehicle in a registration table in which a plurality of planned vehicles are registered And when any registered planned vehicle registered in the registration table is selected, the reference model and the external model constituting the registered planned vehicle are referred to the registration table when the registered planned vehicle is selected. Read from storage means, read The reference model as well as The external model The Combined to generate planned vehicle model A planned vehicle model generation display process for displaying the generated planned vehicle model, Is executed.
[0015]
In order to achieve the above object, a storage medium according to the present invention stores the planning support program.
[0016]
【The invention's effect】
According to the present invention, a plurality of reference models that represent the living space in the planned vehicle as three-dimensional data and a plurality of outer models that represent the outer shape of the planned vehicle as three-dimensional data are stored. Can be combined in combination to generate a planned vehicle model, so if you prepare several outline models and reference models, you can easily generate various combinations of planned vehicle models. And display can do.
[0018]
here, When multiple registered planned vehicles are selected, a planned vehicle model for each registered planned vehicle is generated and these are simultaneously If it shows, it will become still easier to compare the planned vehicle models.
[0019]
By storing multiple reference models with different seat configurations and combining them with the external model, it is possible to easily generate a planned vehicle model with the same external shape and different number of seats. Can be planned.
[0020]
If multiple external models with different vehicle heights or wheelbases are stored and combined with the reference model, it is possible to easily generate planning vehicle models with the same configuration of the living space in the vehicle but with different vehicle heights and wheelbases. By comparing vehicle models, the optimal vehicle can be planned. For example, it is possible to easily generate two planned vehicles having the same seat configuration, bonnet, and rear hatch portion but different wheelbases, and can be compared and evaluated as a whole.
[0021]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The embodiment described below is an example as means for realizing the present invention, and the present invention can be applied to a modified or modified embodiment described below without departing from the spirit of the present invention. In the present specification, the external model, the living space model, and the structural model are expressed by the appearance of the vehicle, the state of the seat and the occupant, the coordinate data of a plurality of points representing the frame structure, and the correlation between the points, respectively. Object. The specification value refers to a dimension that determines the vehicle shape, and includes, for example, an overall height, an overall width, an overall length, and the like. The vehicle type refers to a vehicle type such as a sport, a sedan, or a truck.
[0022]
(Overall system configuration)
First, the overall configuration of the planning support system as the present embodiment will be described.
[0023]
FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a planning support system 100 according to this embodiment. A plan support system 100 in FIG. 1 includes a computer 1 and a database server 2 as plan support devices connected to a network. The computer 1 includes a CPU 11, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 13, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 14, an HD (Hard Disk) 15, an input / output interface (I / O) 16, an image processing unit 18, and a communication unit 19. And are connected to each other by a bus 12. An input device 20 and a display 17 are provided outside the main body, and are connected to the input / output interface 16 and the image processing unit 18, respectively.
[0024]
Among these, the CPU 11 is an arithmetic / control processor for controlling the entire computer 1. The ROM 13 is a non-volatile memory that stores a boot program executed by the CPU 11, fixed values, and the like. The RAM 14 is a volatile memory for temporarily storing data and programs. The HD 15 is a storage medium as a storage unit that stores an OS executed by the computer 1 and various program modules. The input / output interface 16 is an interface for inputting / outputting data between the computer main body and the input device 20.
[0025]
The input device 20 is a device such as a keyboard or a mouse for inputting commands and data, and the display 17 is a liquid crystal display for outputting characters and image data calculated by the image processing unit 18 based on a control command from the CPU 11. A device such as a CRT. The image processing unit 18 is a unit that performs arithmetic processing on image data to be displayed on the display 17. The communication unit 19 is a unit for transmitting and receiving data to and from the database server 2 via a wireless or wired communication line.
[0026]
More specifically, the RAM 14 temporarily stores a program execution area 14a for temporarily storing a program executed by the CPU 11 during the vehicle planning support process, and vehicle specification value data input by the user. An original value storage area 14b, various model storage areas 14c for storing various models relating to the planned vehicle, a display image storage area 14d for temporarily storing display images, and a simulation setting storage area 14e for storing simulation settings.
[0027]
The HD 15 stores a program module for supporting the planning of a new vehicle. Specifically, the design table creation module 15a for generating the design table 801 that summarizes the vehicle specification value data, the reference model construction module 15b for constructing the reference model with reference to the design table, and the design table are referred to. An external model building module 15c for building an external model, a structural model building module 15d for building a structural model by referring to a design table, an interior model building module 15e for building an interior model by referring to the design table, and a planned vehicle A part model construction module 15f for generating a part model representing the part to be represented by three-dimensional data, a planned vehicle registration module 15g for registering the planned vehicle model, and a projection for projecting and displaying the model represented by the three-dimensional data on the projection plane Image display module 15h and generated project Simulation module 15i for simulating the view of the driver during running of the vehicle model is stored as a planning support program.
[0028]
The HD 15 further includes a design table file (hereinafter simply referred to as a design table) 15j generated by the design table creation module 15a and various model files (hereinafter simply referred to as various models) constructed by the various model construction modules 15b to 15g. 15k) and a simulation image file 15m generated by the simulation module 15i are stored.
[0029]
The design table creation module 15a may not be a completely original program module, but may be a module that uses a part of functions of spreadsheet software that operates on an operating system, for example. Further, the various model construction modules 15b to 15g, the projection image display module 15h, and the simulation module 15i may be modules using some functions of the three-dimensional CAD software. In this case, the various models 15k are constructed by three-dimensional CAD software extracting values from the design table 15j and performing predetermined calculations.
[0030]
In addition, the design table creation module 15a, the reference model construction module 15b, the external model construction module 15c, the structural model construction module 15d, the interior model construction module 15e, the part model construction module 15f, the planned vehicle model registration module 15g, and the projection image display module 15h The simulation module 15i may be packaged together as a single plan support application.
[0031]
The computer 1 includes the HD 15 as a nonvolatile mass storage medium, but the present invention is not limited to this. Examples of other storage media that replace HD include flexible disks, magneto-optical disks, CD-ROMs, CD-Rs, CD-RWs, DVDs (DVD-ROMs, DVD-Rs), and the like. That is, the planning support program may be realized by storing the planning support program in a storage medium such as a CD-ROM and reading and executing the planning support program using a drive corresponding to the storage medium.
[0032]
(Data structure and model construction process)
FIG. 2 is a diagram showing data included in the computer 1 and the database server 2. As shown in FIG. 2, the database server 2 includes an occupant / seat / wheel database 2a, an outline database 2b, a structure database 2c, an interior database 2d, a general-purpose parts database 2e, a completed vehicle database 2f, and a landscape database. 2g.
[0033]
Among these, the occupant / seat / wheel database 2a is an occupant base model and a seat base that represent the occupant shape defined by the occupant size (standard for adults and children) in accordance with domestic and foreign standards in three-dimensional data. The model and wheel base model are accumulated and managed.
[0034]
The outer shape database 2b stores and manages an outer shape base model that represents a typical external shape of a vehicle by three-dimensional data, classified by vehicle type. The outer shape base model is expressed by three-dimensional data having the most general shape without any outer features for each vehicle type such as hatchback, minivan, sedan, sports, open, and truck. The outer shape base model includes a plurality of surface data to which attributes are added as a door, a bonnet, and a rear hatch, and display / non-display of each surface can be selected.
[0035]
The structure database 2c stores and manages a structure-based model expressing a typical framework of a vehicle with three-dimensional data, similarly classified for each vehicle type. The interior database 2d stores and manages an interior base model in which various typical interiors provided in the vehicle are expressed by three-dimensional data. The general-purpose parts database 2e stores and manages images of general-purpose parts such as door mirrors, handles, and rear spoilers. The images managed here include not only three-dimensional images but also two-dimensional images. The completed vehicle database 2f stores and manages, in addition to the completed planned vehicle model 1f, a benchmark vehicle model that represents an actual vehicle with three-dimensional data for reference. The scenery database 2g accumulates and manages scenery data representing scenery that enters the driver's field of view when the planned vehicle model 1f is virtually run. The landscape data includes three-dimensional virtual space data having virtual buildings, virtual roads, virtual vehicles, virtual pedestrians, and the like as objects, and two-dimensional moving image data obtained by video-taking actual images. .
[0036]
The computer 1 executes the design table creation module 15a based on the user's input and displays an input screen as shown in FIG. 3 to display basic specification values such as the number of sheets, the sheet position, the total length, the total height, and the total width. Prompt for In FIG. 3, (a) is an input table of specification values, and (b) and (c) are vehicle front view images and side view images to show corresponding parts of the specification values input in the input table. is there. A numerical value can be entered in the "..." part. The specification values that can be entered in this figure are wheel base 1101, total width 1102, total height 1103, front overhang 1105, rear overhang 1106, horizontal position 1107 of cowl point CW, vertical position 1108 of cowl point CW, and windshield tilt 1109. is there. Note that the specification values to be input are not limited to this, and a plurality of screens similar to those in FIG. 3 are prepared in order to input various other specification values. And the design table 15j is created based on the inputted specification value. That is, the design table 15j includes various specification values related to the planned vehicle such as information on the seating position of the occupant.
The computer 1 executes the reference model construction module 15b based on the user input. The reference model construction module 15b constructs a reference model 1a that expresses the living space of the vehicle based on the specification values set in the design table 15j. The reference model 1a includes line data indicating the riding posture of the occupant. The line data includes a line segment that connects a head point indicating the head position of the occupant, a hip point indicating the hip position, a knee point indicating the knee position, and a heel point indicating the heel position. The occupant model can be included in the reference model 1a by reading out an occupant base model that three-dimensionally represents the occupant's posture from the occupant / seat / wheel database 2a and deforming along the line data.
[0037]
The reference model 1a includes point data indicating the steering wheel position, point data indicating the driver's viewpoint position, and line data indicating the driver's front view and rear view. Further, the reference model construction module 15b deforms / places the seat base model read from the occupant / seat / wheel database 2a based on hip point data set in the design table 15j, and the reference model 1a is used as a seat model. Can be part of
[0038]
The computer 1 executes the outline model construction module 15c based on the user input. The outline model construction module 15c reads the outline base model from the outline database 2b and deforms it based on the specification values set in the design table 15j to construct the outline model 1b. That is, the computer 1 reads the outer shape base model from the outer shape database 2b based on the vehicle type (any one of hatchback, minivan, sedan, sports, open, and truck) set in the design table 15j. Then, using various specifications (full length, full width, full height, wheel base, front and rear overhang) stored in the design table 15j, predetermined external parameters (coordinates of bumper tip position and roof top) included in the external base model are used. The outline shape model 1b is constructed along the specifications. In other words, a three-dimensional external shape base model that can be automatically deformed according to the specification values is prepared in the database.
[0039]
Furthermore, the computer 1 can display the projected image of the outer model 1b as shown in FIG. 4 and locally deform the outer model 1b in accordance with the input from the input device 20. The outline base model is configured on the basis of three-dimensional data of a plurality of control points having a correlation with each other. When the input device 20 instructs the movement of the control point in a state where the outline model is displayed as an image, the outline model is displayed. It is deformed locally. Specifically, the outline base model follows the definition points that are defined by the input specification values as control points, and the definition points so that the vehicle shape does not become unnatural. And a follow-up point that moves.
[0040]
Then, in the state where the outline model whose shape is roughly determined by the specification values is displayed as shown in FIG. 4, the tracking point of the three-dimensional outline model displayed on the image can be freely moved using a pointing device. Fine-tune the outer shape of the planned vehicle as possible. In FIG. 4, points indicated by stars are reference points C which are definition points, and these points are restricted from moving in the front-rear (horizontal) direction and allowed to move in the up-down (vertical) direction. A point indicated by a black circle is an operation point D as a follow-up point and can be arbitrarily moved in the front-rear, left-right, and up-down directions. The operation point D is set at the center of the vehicle width. The points indicated by white circles are the follow-up points E, F, and G. The follow-up point E follows and moves according to the amount of movement of the operation point D while maintaining the relative positional relationship with the operation point D (that is, follows and moves / deforms while keeping the shape of the line segment L). . In addition, the tracking point F is located on the side of the vehicle and moves following the reference point C. The follow-up point G is a point that defines the shape of the glass and can be moved by a user operation while following the line shape on the roof side. Note that the control points shown in FIG. 4 are only an example and a part, and control points are also provided at places not shown in the figure. Furthermore, it is also possible for the user to set a new control point to further locally deform the outer shape of the vehicle.
[0041]
The computer 1 executes the structural model construction module 15d based on the user input. The structural model construction module 15d reads the structural base model from the structural database 2c, deforms it based on the specification values set in the design table 15j, and constructs the structural model 1c. Similarly, the computer 1 executes the interior model construction module 15e based on the user input, reads out the interior base model from the interior database 2d, and deforms it based on the specification values set in the design table 15j. An interior model 1d is constructed. Interior models include front pillar trim, center pillar trim, rear pillar trim, door trim, instrument panel and roof trim. Further, a model of only an occupant's arm having a handle may be included as an interior model. Moreover, the structure which sets a color about each of these interior parts in a design table may be sufficient.
[0042]
The reference model 1a, the outer shape model 1b, the structural model 1c, and the interior model 1d constructed in this way are shown in FIGS. 5A, 5B, 5C, 5C using the projection image display module 15h. As shown in FIG. 5 (d), each can be displayed alone, or as shown in FIG. 5 (e), all can be displayed in combination. It is also possible to display only the specified models in combination.
[0043]
And the presence or absence of interference of each model is confirmed by combination display. That is, it is visually verified that the passenger's head clearance and the driver's visibility are insufficient, and each model is changed based on the verification result. If the passenger's seating position and seating posture determined by the reference model are unsatisfactory with respect to the passenger compartment space set by the external model or structural model, the seating position can be shifted, the seating posture can be changed, the roof Make adjustments such as raising the position. In this way, the outer shape model can be constructed independently of the living space model, and the outer shape can be set effectively with a free idea without being restricted by the constraints of the internal space. Conversely, it is possible to plan a living space with a free idea without being bound by the outer shape.
[0044]
(Display of general-purpose parts)
The outline model is data representing a very plain outline that does not include any accessories such as a door mirror. Therefore, if only the planned vehicle model, which is simply a combination of the reference model, outer shape model, and structural model, is displayed, it will give an unsatisfactory impression to the user familiar with the actual vehicle, and the evaluation will be accurate. May not be possible. Therefore, in the present system 100, in order to give an impression similar to that of an actual vehicle, a display is added with a door mirror, or an ordinary handle included in the interior model is displayed in place of another characteristic handle. It has a function to do.
[0045]
Specifically, when the projected image of the planned vehicle model 1f is displayed by the projected image display module 15h, the component image read from the general-purpose component database 2e is displayed in an overlapping manner according to the user input. In other words, the user can select a general-purpose component to be added to the planned vehicle from the general-purpose component database 2e and easily attach it to the planned vehicle model 1f. As a result, a vehicle with various parts attached can be easily visualized, and an impression similar to that of an actual vehicle can be given when displaying a planned vehicle.
[0046]
Here, a part of the planned vehicle model can be hidden, and unnaturalness can be prevented by adding general-purpose parts. For example, when displaying the meter image in an overlapping manner, the meter image portion originally provided in the interior model can be hidden. This non-display process may be performed by any method. A process of giving an attribute indicating a part to the three-dimensional data included in various models in advance and transparently displaying a point and a line having the corresponding attribute when an image of a general-purpose part is added can be considered. For example, when a meter is added as a general-purpose component, a process of making the color of the three-dimensional data representing the meter portion transparent among the three-dimensional data constituting the interior model may be performed.
[0047]
When the component image data read from the general-purpose component database 2e is two-dimensional image data, a component image corresponding to the component image data is superimposed and displayed on a projection image obtained by projecting the planned vehicle model from a predetermined viewpoint. By doing so, it is possible to realize an unnatural display and to reduce the burden of generating image data for a wide variety of parts.
[0048]
Further, when the part image data is 3D image data, if the planned vehicle model and the part image data are combined in the 3D space, an unnatural projection image can be obtained regardless of the position of the viewpoint. It can be displayed, and the viewpoint can be moved to various positions in the three-dimensional space, and the relationship between the parts and the planned vehicle can be verified from all angles. Further, the viewpoint can be moved in the three-dimensional space in accordance with the movement of the mouse pointer on the display screen, and the three-dimensional planning vehicle can be displayed so as to move around on the screen. In that case, if the planned vehicle model and the part image data are combined in the three-dimensional space, the part and the planned vehicle move simultaneously while maintaining the connected state. Examples of general-purpose parts for which such part image data is prepared include doors, wipers, car navigation system operation panels, meters, audio system operation panels, handles, or mirrors.
[0049]
FIG. 6 is an example of component image data representing a general-purpose component, and shows a display image of three-dimensional data representing a handle. Such a part image can be expanded and contracted in either direction as a whole, and the part image can be expanded and contracted according to the shape and size of the planned vehicle model to verify a more natural planned vehicle. Can do.
[0050]
(Support for new features)
The outline base model and the structure base model are data of general shapes having no characteristics because they are the bases of all planned vehicles. Therefore, when planning a vehicle with a completely novel design, it is possible to assume a case where it is not possible to cope with the deformation alone. Therefore, the system 100 has a function of making it possible to separately create a part model with a completely new design, partially hiding the outer shape model and the structural model, and combining and displaying the newly created part model.
[0051]
Specifically, when the modification of the base model read from the database server 2 cannot cope, the part model creation module 15f can be executed to create a newly created part model 1e and incorporated into the planned vehicle model 1f. . For example, as shown in FIG. 7, when the rear door 701 has a novel design in which the upper part of the window goes around to the roof of the vehicle, it cannot be handled by the modification of the existing external base model. The module 15f is executed to separately create a three-dimensional model of the rear door, and is coupled to the outer shape base model. When displaying the planned vehicle model generated in this way, the projection image display module 15h can hide (transparent display) the rear door portion 702 of the outer model. That is, when the planned vehicle model 1f is displayed, a part of the outer model 1b corresponding to the part model 1e can be hidden.
[0052]
In this way, a new part model that represents the parts that can be included in the planned vehicle in three-dimensional data is generated, and the outer shape base model and the occupant base model are transformed into models that are generated according to the specification value data, respectively. By combining them, it becomes possible to express a vehicle of a completely new concept that exceeds the existing concept in a three-dimensional space. That is, it is possible to deal with new features that cannot be constructed only by modifying a typical external shape base model included in the database, and more innovative vehicles can be planned. In addition, when displaying such a novel planned vehicle model, the part corresponding to the part model that is a part of the outer model is hidden, so that it is not necessary to redesign the outer base model. Various vehicle models can be displayed.
[0053]
(Planned vehicle model registration)
As described above, the reference model 1a, the external model 1b, the structural model 1c, the interior model 1d, and the part model 1e constructed by the model construction modules 15b to 15f are stored in the HD 15 as various model files 15k. However, each model constructed in the planning of one vehicle is not limited to one each, and a plurality of reference models 1a, external models b, structural models 1c, interior models 1d, and component models 1e for the same planning. It is desirable to build
[0054]
If at least a plurality of reference models 1a and a plurality of external models 1b are stored in the HD 15, the planned vehicle model registration module 15g responds to a user's input instruction and the plurality of reference models 1a and a plurality of external shapes stored in the HD 15 are stored. The model 1b is arbitrarily combined and registered as the planned vehicle model 1f.
[0055]
An example of the registered planned vehicle model 1f is shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 8, the planned vehicle model 1f is registered in a table 801 for specifying a reference model 1a, an external model 1b, a structural model 1c, an interior model 1d, and a part model 1e to be combined. In other words, when the planned vehicle model 1f is specified in the table 801 shown in FIG. 8, the reference model 1a, the external model 1b, the structural model 1c, the interior model 1d, and the part model 1e included in the planned vehicle model 1f are displayed. It is read from the HD 15 and combined.
[0056]
FIG. 8 shows that the planned vehicle model A is a combination of the reference model A, the external model A, the structural model A, and the interior model A. Further, it is shown that the planned vehicle model B is a combination of the reference model A, the outer model B, the structural model B, and the interior model A. Assuming that the wheel bases of the external model A and the structural model A are shorter than the wheel bases of the external model B and the structural model B, an image obtained by projecting the planned vehicle model A and the planned vehicle model B from the laterally diagonal direction is as follows: It becomes like FIG. 9 (a) and (b). Since the reference model and the interior model are the same, the living space in the vehicle, the seat arrangement, and the interior are exactly the same. As shown in FIG. 8, the planned vehicle model A may have an attribute indicating that the planned vehicle model has a short wheelbase. If an attribute indicating the characteristics of each planned vehicle model is registered in the table 801, it is desirable that it is easy to understand when selecting the planned vehicle model.
[0057]
The planner can register a planned vehicle model in the table 801 shown in FIG. 8 in advance, and can select one of the planned vehicle models from the table 801 and display the image during the presentation. Therefore, the planner can promptly evaluate the evaluator by displaying an image as shown in FIG. 9A or 9B instantaneously. For example, it becomes easy to explain the merits and demerits of when the wheelbase is long and short. Then, it is possible to accurately determine how the planned vehicle model that combines the outer model, the reference model, and the like is most preferable. Note that the images in FIGS. 9A and 9B may be displayed on the same screen. If a plurality of planned vehicle models are displayed in an overlapping manner, it becomes easier to compare the planned vehicle models.
[0058]
In FIG. 8, the reference model B stores sheets in the reference model A. Accordingly, the planned vehicle model C and the planned vehicle model D store the seats of the planned vehicle model A and the planned vehicle model B, respectively.
[0059]
In this way, by storing a plurality of reference models having different seat forms and registering a plurality of planned vehicle models that are combined with the same external model, an image in which the seat form is changed for the vehicle to be planned. Can be displayed instantaneously, and the planned vehicle can be evaluated precisely. 8 includes the reference model 1a, the external model 1b, the structural model 1c, and the interior model 1d, but only the reference model 1a and the external model 1b are combined for the planned vehicle. It may be registered as a model, or only one of the models may be registered as a planned vehicle model.
[0060]
Further, the planned vehicle shown in FIG. 7 is registered like the planned vehicle model E in FIG. Here, the part model of the door portion 701 in FIG. 7 corresponds to the part model A.
[0061]
Next, the planned vehicle model registration process will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a planned vehicle model registration dialog 1001. The registration dialog 1001 displays a list of models. Only the external model list 1002, the sheet model list 1003, and the structural model list 1004 are shown here, but by operating the slide bar 1005, a list of other models is also displayed. In each model list, a plurality of models stored in advance in the HD 15 are displayed as thumbnail images. In the state of FIG. 10, the external model list 1002 displays the external model A and the external model B, but other external models are also displayed by operating the slide bar 1006. In addition, the sheet model A and the sheet model B are displayed in the sheet model list 1003. Similarly, by operating the slide bar 1007, other external models are also displayed. If each model is selected from such a plurality of model lists and the registration button 1008 is selected, the combination of the selected models is registered in the table 801 in FIG.
[0062]
For example, an external model A selected from the external model list 1002 and a seat model A selected and registered from the seat model list 1003 corresponds to the planned vehicle model A in FIG. 8, and an external model B is selected from the external model list 1002. The vehicle model B that is selected and registered by selecting the seat model A from the seat model list 1003 corresponds to the planned vehicle model B in FIG. Similarly, what is registered by selecting the external model A from the external model list 1002 and selecting and registering the seat model B from the seat model list 1003 corresponds to the planned vehicle model C in FIG. Is selected and the seat model B is selected and registered from the seat model list 1003, which corresponds to the planned vehicle model D in FIG. FIG. 10 is only an example of a registration dialog, and the planned vehicle model may be registered by selecting a file name such as a reference model.
[0063]
As described above, a plurality of planned vehicle models in which different external models 1b are combined with one reference model 1a are displayed, or a plurality of reference models 1a are combined with one external model 1b. If you display the planned vehicle model, you can easily generate a planned vehicle model with the same outer shape and different living space in the vehicle, or a planned vehicle model with the same living space configuration but different outer shape. By comparing models, you can plan an optimal vehicle.
[0064]
In addition, the planned vehicle model that combines multiple external models with different wheelbases with the same reference model has been described. Similarly, multiple external models with different vehicle heights and other specification values can be combined with the same reference model. Various versions of planned vehicle models may be registered. If multiple external models with different vehicle heights or wheelbases are stored and combined with the reference model, it is possible to easily generate planning vehicle models with the same configuration of the living space in the vehicle but with different vehicle heights and wheelbases. By comparing vehicle models, the optimal vehicle can be planned. For example, it is possible to easily generate two planned vehicles having the same seat configuration, bonnet, and rear hatch portion but different wheelbases, and can be compared and evaluated as a whole.
[0065]
(Simulation display)
In the planned vehicle model 1f, the viewpoint position of the driver is roughly defined from the seat position of the driver's seat, but the viewpoint position and line-of-sight direction can be freely set. And according to the driver | operator's viewpoint position and line-of-sight direction which were set, the visual field image which represents a driver | operator's visual field virtually can be produced | generated easily. The view image includes a pillar, a handle, a meter hood, and a driver's arm that form the interior model 1d. The above-described general-purpose component image may be superimposed on the view image. For example, it is possible to hide the handle included in the interior model 1d and display the handle image read from the general-purpose component database 2e, or additionally display the door mirror image, the sun visor image, and the rearview mirror image. It is done.
[0066]
This view image does not include a landscape image outside the vehicle, but the simulation module 15i superimposes the landscape data read from the landscape database 2g on the view image generated from the planned vehicle model, as shown in FIG. Such a simulation image 15m for visibility evaluation is generated, and the field of view from the driver when the planned vehicle is traveling is displayed by simulation. If there is a problem with the visibility or interior design, the thickness or structure of the pillar included in the interior model, or the color or pattern thereof is changed to improve the visibility or design.
[0067]
In the case where the landscape data is 3D virtual space data having virtual buildings, virtual roads, virtual vehicles, virtual pedestrians, etc. as objects, the planned vehicle model is run on the virtual road in the 3D space and the operation is performed. Display the field of view from the person. In addition, when the landscape data is two-dimensional moving image data obtained by video-taking an actual landscape, the moving image is superimposed and displayed on a projection image obtained by projecting the planned vehicle model from the viewpoint of the driver. As a result, the scenery outside the vehicle is displayed on the windshield and door glass portions of the planned vehicle model.
[0068]
When displaying a planned vehicle as described above, it is easier and more accurate to evaluate by comparing with other vehicle models than by displaying only the planned vehicle model. There are many. Therefore, the computer 1 according to the present embodiment generates a three-dimensional model of another vehicle different from the planned vehicle, and displays the planned vehicle model and the other vehicle model in a superimposed manner using the projection image display module 15h. . Here, the other vehicle may be another planned vehicle or an existing vehicle. Here, the existing vehicle to be compared is called a benchmark vehicle. When the benchmark vehicle is three-dimensionally modeled, the three-dimensional coordinates of each point of the benchmark vehicle may be measured using a three-dimensional measuring device.
[0069]
FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating a display image example in which the planned vehicle model and another vehicle model are displayed in an overlapping manner. In FIG. 12, the planned vehicle model is texture-mapped and solid modeled, while the other vehicle models are displayed as wireframe models. By displaying in this way, the shape of the planned vehicle can be easily compared with the shape of other vehicles, and the advantages and disadvantages when compared with other vehicles can be accurately grasped.
[0070]
The projection image display module 15h further has a function of switching between a solid model target and a wire frame model target. This makes it easy to display the planned vehicle as a solid and display other vehicles in a wire frame, or to display the planned vehicle as a wire frame and display other vehicles as a solid display. Becomes easier.
[0071]
The projection image display module 15h has a function of changing the position of at least one of the planned vehicle model and the other vehicle model. That is, in a state where the screen as shown in FIG. 12 is displayed, the position of the other vehicle model with respect to the planned vehicle can be changed to change the overlapping state. For example, various displays are possible, such as displaying each rooftop so that the positions of the rooftops match, displaying so that the top end positions of the front pillars match, or matching the centers of the handles. It becomes possible to compare those vehicles from all angles. Thereby, the plan vehicle can be evaluated with high accuracy. Furthermore, the projection image display module 15h has a function of highlighting and displaying a portion that is not overlapped with the planned vehicle model and other vehicle models. For example, among the pillars of the planned vehicle model, when overlapping with other vehicle models, only the planned vehicle model is displayed, and the portion that does not overlap with the other vehicle model can be displayed in a different color. For example, this is the portion indicated by the oblique line 1201 in FIG. By highlighting in this way, it becomes easier to compare the vehicle shapes.
[0072]
Further, the projection image display module 15h has a function of hiding a part of the wire frame model. Thereby, the wire frame of the part which does not need to be compared at the time of superposition display is made non-display, and comparison of those vehicle shapes can be further facilitated. In addition, although the comparison screen of the interior part in a vehicle was illustrated in FIG. 12, it is not restricted to this, It is also possible to compare an external shape, a seat arrangement | positioning, etc. by superimposing on a solid display and a wire frame display. That is, such comparative display is possible regardless of the position of the viewpoint.
[0073]
On the other hand, the projection image display module 15h also has a function of displaying the interior model by switching between the depth-oriented display and the texture-oriented display, and enables display according to the evaluation purpose of the interior model. For example, when it is desired to evaluate the visibility of how much the situation outside the vehicle can be visually recognized by the driver, the depth-oriented display is performed. In addition, when the occupant wants to evaluate the interior design, such as what kind of impression (cute, cool, spacious, relaxed, etc.) the passenger feels about the interior, a texture-oriented display is performed. An example of the depth emphasis display is shown in FIG. 13A, and an example of the texture emphasis display is shown in FIG.
[0074]
The simulation module 15i further has a function of selecting an evaluation mode according to the purpose of evaluating the interior model. Specifically, an evaluation purpose selection screen (not shown) including buttons such as a visibility evaluation mode and a design evaluation mode is displayed to allow the user (planner or evaluator) to select an evaluation mode. Then, simulation display is performed by automatically switching between the depth-oriented display and the texture-oriented display according to the selected evaluation mode. In this way, simply by selecting the evaluation mode, the display corresponding to the evaluation purpose is automatically performed, and the convenience of the system can be improved.
[0075]
As shown in FIG. 13A, in the depth-oriented display, a two-dimensional lattice pattern is texture-mapped on the surface of the interior model to emphasize the depth in the vehicle. This lattice is composed of a plurality of lines parallel to the traveling direction of the vehicle and lines perpendicular to it. On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 13B, in the texture-oriented display, a two-dimensional image representing a texture such as a texture is texture-mapped on the surface of the interior model.
[0076]
Further, in the depth-oriented display, the contrast between the scenery outside the vehicle and the interior in the vehicle is displayed stronger than in the texture-oriented display, and the edge is emphasized. In particular, the depth-oriented display displays the scenery outside the vehicle brightly, and the texture-oriented display displays darkly. As a result, the depth feeling in the vehicle can be emphasized more in the depth feeling-oriented display, and the evaluation accuracy can be improved.
[0077]
(Planning verification process)
FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing the overall flow of the plan verification process using each module as described above.
[0078]
First, in step S1401, the design table 15j is created as described above. Next, in steps S1402 to S1405, a reference model 1a, an external model 1b, a structural model 1c, and an interior model 1d are constructed using data input to the design table. If the base model cannot be deformed, a new part model is created in step S1406.
[0079]
In step S1407, the models are combined and superimposed. At that time, in step S1408, general-purpose parts may be added and displayed. If it is confirmed as a result of the superimposed display that there is no interference between the occupant and the outer shape, the process proceeds from step S1409 to step S1410, and a planned vehicle model in which all models are combined is generated and stored.
[0080]
If there is a problem as a result of the superimposed display in step S1407, the process returns from step S1409 to step S1401, and each model is corrected by changing the design table 15j or by modifying the display screen.
[0081]
When the planned vehicle model is generated in step S1410, the process proceeds to step S1411 to activate the simulation module 15i and set simulation conditions. That is, a travel route, sunshine direction, weather, travel speed, turning speed, and the like are set as travel conditions, and a visibility evaluation mode or a design evaluation mode is selected as an evaluation mode.
[0082]
Next, in step S1412, the landscape data read from the database server and the three-dimensional data of the planned vehicle model are combined in accordance with the set traveling conditions. Then, a moving image that can be seen from the viewpoint of the driver of the planned vehicle model is displayed on the display, and a plurality of evaluators evaluate the visibility and the feeling of pressure.
[0083]
If there are no problems with visibility and pressure, proceed to create a plan and develop the design. If there is any problem, the process returns from step S1413 to step S1401 to correct the design table, or only the interior model is corrected on the display screen. When re-evaluation is performed under other travel conditions, the process returns to step S1411 to change the travel conditions and display the simulation again.
[0084]
(Evaluation system)
As described above, the simulation image 15m generated by the processing of the flowchart shown in FIG. 14 is displayed, for example, in the evaluation system shown in FIG. 15, and used by a plurality of evaluators to evaluate the visibility of the planned vehicle. .
[0085]
In the evaluation system shown in FIG. 15A, a simulation image 15m is displayed on each of a plurality of evaluation terminals 1501 connected to a network, and a mark, a comment, or a target of a comment input on each terminal 1501 is displayed. The images and the like are collected on the operator terminal 1502.
[0086]
In the evaluation system shown in FIG. 15B, a simulation image 15m is displayed on a screen 1504 using a projector 1503, and a plurality of evaluators input comments on the evaluation pad 1505 while simultaneously viewing the images. The input comments are collected together with the input timing information in the operator terminal 1506.
[0087]
In this way, if a three-dimensional model of a planned vehicle is built, moved virtually on the road, and the simulation view of the video from the viewpoint of the driver of the planned vehicle model is created, the planner creates a prototype vehicle This makes it possible to visually evaluate the comfort and design of the driver, such as visibility and pressure. Thereby, the time and cost required for vehicle planning can be significantly reduced.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a planning support system according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a diagram showing data stored in a database and a computer according to the embodiment of this invention.
FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of an input screen for specification values according to the embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining local deformation of an outline model according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 5 is a view showing a display image example of a planned vehicle model according to the embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a display image of a part model according to the embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a display image of a planned vehicle model incorporating a novel design according to the embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of registration data of a planned vehicle model according to the embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a display image of a planned vehicle model according to the embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a planned vehicle model registration screen according to the embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a simulation display image according to the embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of a superimposed display image of the planned vehicle model and the comparative vehicle model according to the embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of depth-oriented display and an example of texture-oriented display image of the interior model according to the embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing a flow of vehicle planning processing according to the embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of an evaluation system for a planned vehicle model according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Claims (7)

A planning support system that is configured by a computer and supports vehicle planning,
Storage means for storing a plurality of reference models representing the living space in the planned vehicle as three-dimensional data and a plurality of outer models representing the outer shape of the planned vehicle as three-dimensional data;
First selection means for selecting one reference model from the plurality of reference models stored in the storage means;
Second selection means for selecting one of the external models from the plurality of external models stored in the storage means;
Selection result by the first and second selection means as the reference model and the external model constituting the newly registered planned vehicle in the registration table in which a plurality of planned vehicles are registered when there is a new registration instruction for the planned vehicle A registration means for registering
When any registered planned vehicle registered in the registration table is selected, the reference model and the external model constituting the registered planned vehicle are read from the storage unit with reference to the registration table, and read A planned vehicle model generation and display means for generating a planned vehicle model by combining the reference model and the external model, and displaying the generated planned vehicle model;
Planning support system characterized by comprising.   The planned vehicle model generation / display means generates a planned vehicle model for each registered planned vehicle when a plurality of registered planned vehicles registered in the registration table are selected, and displays them simultaneously. The planning support system according to claim 1. The reference model includes a seat model that represents the form of the seat of the planned vehicle with three-dimensional data,
The planning support system according to claim 1, wherein the storage unit stores a plurality of reference models having different sheet forms.   The planning support system according to claim 1, wherein the storage unit stores a plurality of external models having different vehicle heights or wheel bases. A planning support method executed by a computer to support vehicle planning,
A storage step of storing in the storage means a plurality of reference models representing the living space in the planned vehicle with three-dimensional data and a plurality of outer models representing the outer shape of the planned vehicle with three-dimensional data;
A first selection step of selecting one reference model from the plurality of stored reference models;
A second selection step of selecting one of the outline models from the plurality of stored outline models;
When there is an instruction to newly register a planned vehicle, a selection result obtained by the first and second selection steps as the reference model and the external model constituting the newly registered planned vehicle in a registration table in which a plurality of planned vehicles are registered A registration process for registering
When any registered planned vehicle registered in the registration table is selected, the reference model and the external model constituting the registered planned vehicle are read from the storage unit with reference to the registration table, and read A planned vehicle model generation display step of generating a planned vehicle model by combining the reference model and the outer shape model, and displaying the generated planned vehicle model;
A planning support method characterized by including: A planning support program that supports vehicle planning,
A storage step of storing, in a storage means, a plurality of reference models representing the living space in the planned vehicle in three-dimensional data and a plurality of outer models representing the outer shape of the planned vehicle in three-dimensional data on a computer;
A first selection step of selecting one reference model from the plurality of stored reference models;
A second selection step of selecting one of the outline models from the plurality of stored outline models;
When there is an instruction to newly register a planned vehicle, a selection result obtained by the first and second selection steps as the reference model and the external model constituting the newly registered planned vehicle in a registration table in which a plurality of planned vehicles are registered A registration process for registering
When any registered planned vehicle registered in the registration table is selected, the reference model and the external model constituting the registered planned vehicle are read from the storage unit with reference to the registration table, and read A planned vehicle model generation display step of generating a planned vehicle model by combining the reference model and the outer shape model, and displaying the generated planned vehicle model;
Planning support program characterized by running   A computer-readable storage medium storing the planning support program according to claim 6.

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