JP7370071B2 - Vehicle systems and programs - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a vehicle system that performs control to output audio to a vehicle driver.

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, vehicle-mounted devices such as navigation devices that display maps and guide routes and radar detectors that present traffic enforcement information have been known as driving support devices for supporting vehicle driving.
A typical navigation device is equipped with a route calculation function to a destination and a GPS function for determining the current position of the vehicle. Among such navigation devices, there is also a device that provides audio guidance on the course direction for traveling along a calculated route (for example, see Patent Document 1).

As a radar detector, there is a device that has a function of receiving radar waves for speed enforcement, a database regarding the installation points of the speed enforcement system, and a GPS function that acquires the current position. Such a radar detector detects the approach of a vehicle to the installation point of the speed enforcement system, and warns the driver of this with sound or light (for example, see Patent Document 2).

However, the conventional driving support device has the following problems. In other words, the driving support information output by these driving support devices is based on a combination of information held internally by the driving support device, such as route information and speed enforcement system installation points, and vehicle information such as the current location. Since it is uniform information, there is a problem in that it is insufficient in terms of appropriately providing the information needed by each driver in just the right amount.

Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2012-56396 JP2007-248180A

The present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned conventional problems, and is a vehicle system that performs control to output audio to the driver of the vehicle. This invention aims to provide a vehicle system that can be provided more appropriately.

One aspect of the present invention is a vehicle system that performs control to output audio to a vehicle driver, the system comprising:
Based on multiple types of acquired information, including the driver's personal information,
According to a combination of information contents of the plurality of types of acquired information, the present invention provides a vehicle system that selects any one of the plurality of types of audio output information and outputs the selected one as voice (claim 1).

One aspect of the present invention is a program for controlling a vehicle system that performs control to output audio to a driver of a vehicle, the program comprising:
A computer program for realizing the functions of the vehicle system of the present invention (claim 30).

The vehicular system of the present invention outputs any one of voice output information according to the combination of the information contents by voice, based on the plurality of types of acquired information including the personal information. The plurality of types of acquired information include the driver's personal information. Therefore, according to this vehicle system, appropriate audio output information can be output to each driver. If information for audio output can be provided in this way, not only can detailed driving support be provided for each individual driver, but also it is possible to soothe and entertain the driver through audio output.

In the present invention, the personal information of the driver includes information such as the latitude and longitude of the driver's home location, information about the location of organizations such as companies and schools to which the driver belongs, and information about the routes the driver frequently drives. information, information about the driver's tastes, interests, and preferences, information about the driver's behavioral patterns, information about the driver's date of birth and anniversary, and so on. It is preferable that such personal information be registered according to the operation by the driver or automatically generated according to the driving history of the vehicle.

For example, the plurality of types of acquired information include information on the driver's home location, which is personal information, information on the current location of the vehicle, information on the current time, and information on whether the ignition of the vehicle is on or off. Examples of combinations of the information contents are as follows. This is a combination of information such that the time when the ignition of a vehicle parked at home is turned on is 7:00 in the morning. In the case of such a combination of information contents, it is preferable to output voice output information such as, for example, "Good morning. Good luck with your work today." In addition, if the combination of the information contents is such that the time when the ignition of the vehicle that arrived at the home was turned off was 10 p.m., for example, "Welcome home. Thank you for working so late." It is better to output the audio output information.

The audio output information in the vehicle system according to a preferred aspect of the present invention includes information that supports vehicle driving and information that is not related to vehicle driving (Claim 2).
Information that supports driving includes, for example, information regarding traffic enforcement, route guidance information for reaching a destination, and the like. Among the audio output information, information not related to driving includes information that entertains or calms the driver, such as the aforementioned morning greetings and topics related to current events, which corresponds to "chat".

By appropriately outputting information equivalent to "talking" unrelated to driving depending on the driver, it is possible to keep the driver entertained without getting bored throughout the long period of use of the vehicle system of the present invention. With the vehicle system of the present invention that outputs witty (appropriate) "talking" information that reflects the information content of the personal information, the user can enjoy using it and is less likely to get bored. Many users who have been using this vehicle system for a long time are likely to purchase a new product designed with the same philosophy as the vehicle system when the time to replace the vehicle system approaches. . It will be possible to increase the number of so-called repeat users and retain users.

In the vehicle system according to a preferred aspect of the present invention, the plurality of types of audio output information form a plurality of groups with different audio output conditions that trigger audio output, and any of the audio output A combination of types of the plurality of types of acquired information when selecting information is set for each of the plurality of groups (claim 3).
For example, for a group of audio output information for which the audio output condition is set to the time when driving starts (opening time), personal information such as home location information, current time information, and vehicle's current location are included. You can set combinations of information, ignition on/off information, and types. In this case, it is possible to output the audio output information of the morning greeting as described above.

On the other hand, for the group of audio output information in which the audio output condition is set to the time of approaching a traffic enforcement point, information on the location of the enforcement point, information on the current location of the vehicle, You can set a combination of vehicle speed information and type. For example, when the speed is above the speed limit, it is possible to warn of approaching a enforcement point and to appropriately output audio output information such as "Slow down!".

In the vehicle system according to a preferred aspect of the present invention, it is possible to set any one of a plurality of output modes in which the frequency of outputting the audio output information differs (claim 4).
By changing the output frequency of the audio output information according to the setting of the output mode, it is possible to accommodate a wide variety of drivers and improve versatility. As the output mode, for example, a "quiet" mode with a low output frequency, a "talking" mode with a high output frequency, an intermediate "normal" mode, etc. can be set. The stages of output frequency may be further subdivided.

In a vehicle system according to a preferred aspect of the present invention, audio output conditions that trigger audio output are predetermined for each of the plurality of output modes (claim 5).
As this voice output condition, it is also possible to set conditions such as at the start of driving, during driving, and at the end of driving. For example, the start of driving may be determined when a predetermined driving start determination condition is satisfied, such as when the ignition of the vehicle is turned on. For example, the end of driving may be determined when a predetermined driving end determination condition is met, such as when the ignition of the vehicle is turned off. Further, for example, it is preferable to determine that the vehicle is in operation during a period from when the driving start determination condition is satisfied to when the driving end determination condition is satisfied. Note that during driving, the condition may be that the vehicle approaches a predetermined position or that the state of the vehicle reaches a predetermined state. As the audio output conditions, for example, the following conditions can be set.
(1) The ignition of the vehicle was turned on.
(2) Approaching a location subject to a warning, warning, or announcement, such as a traffic control point.
(3) Being close to a viewpoint such as a scenic spot.
(4) A specific situation has occurred, such as when the remaining amount of energy such as gasoline has fallen below a predetermined amount.
(5) The ignition of the vehicle has been turned off.
Such.

For example, in the case of a vehicle system whose main function is a traffic enforcement warning, when the output mode is "quiet", the main function is achieved by outputting sound only triggered by the sound output condition in (2) above. On the other hand, when in the "chat" output mode, it is also good to set the audio output to be triggered by all of the audio output conditions (1) to (5) above.

In a vehicle system according to a preferred aspect of the present invention, a plurality of audio output conditions that can trigger audio output are set, and an output mode can be set for each audio output condition (claim 6).
In this case, for example, it is possible to respond in detail to the driver's needs, such as not requiring audio output triggered by the audio output condition in (1) above, but requiring audio output triggered by (3) above. . Furthermore, the audio output condition may be configured to be able to be switched as appropriate depending on the driving situation such as the driving scene and the driving position, such as whether it is a weekday or a holiday, whether it is near or far from home, and the like.

The plurality of types of audio output information in the vehicle system according to a preferred aspect of the present invention include specific support information that is information related to driving support and is output regardless of the output mode. Ori,
It is possible to set any one of a plurality of types of driving support modes in which the frequency of outputting the specific support information differs (claim 7).
The specific support information includes information regarding traffic enforcement, route guidance information to a destination, and the like.

In the vehicle system according to a preferred aspect of the present invention, any one of a plurality of expression modes that differ in the manner of expression when outputting the audio output information by voice can be set (claim 8).
For example, while we set the expression mode similar to that of conventional in-vehicle devices as the "normal" expression mode, we also set an expression mode that is intimate, such as a passenger in the passenger seat talking to you, or a tense expression, such as commands from the cockpit of a fighter jet. It is also good to set an expression mode that corresponds to an expressive mode that is full of emotion, an expression mode that imitates a popular anime character, etc. Amusement-like elements can be incorporated into the vehicle system, and marketability can be improved.

In the vehicle system according to a preferred aspect of the present invention, a plurality of types of expression modes with different expression modes when outputting the audio output information by voice are prepared, and it is possible to set among the plurality of types of output modes. An output mode is predetermined for each expression mode (claim 9).
For example, among drivers who set the "quiet" output mode, there is a tendency that a high proportion of drivers do not like amusement-like expressions. Considering this tendency, it is also good to limit the expression mode that can be set for the "quiet" output mode to the "normal" expression mode. In this case, when used by users who do not require amusement-like elements, it is possible to reduce the trouble of setting and improve usability.

The acquired information taken in by the vehicle system according to a preferred aspect of the present invention includes at least information representing the current position of the vehicle and information representing a specific area with which the driver is personally involved,
The output mode of the audio output information differs depending on whether a vehicle is located within the specific area (claim 10).

The output mode includes aspects such as whether or not to output audio output information, which of the plurality of types of audio output information to output, and the volume at the time of audio output.
Specific areas with which the driver has a personal relationship include, for example, areas surrounding the driver's home or work place, tourist spots visited by the driver, or areas set by the driver himself/herself. . For example, if the area around the home is set as the specific area, it is possible to suppress the output of audio output information that the driver is likely to know. On the other hand, if the vicinity of a sightseeing spot visited for the first time is set as the specific area, the driver can be appropriately supported by outputting as much audio output information as possible.

Among the plural types of audio output information in the vehicle system according to a preferred aspect of the present invention, there is tourist information including location information of the location of a tourist spot, and whether the vehicle is located within the specific area or not. Depending on the situation, whether or not to output the tourist information is switched (claim 11).
For example, if the area around the user's home is set as the specific area, it is preferable to suppress the output of the tourist information. On the other hand, if the area visited for sightseeing is set as the specific area, it is preferable to actively output the tourist information.

A vehicle system according to a preferred aspect of the present invention includes a registration means for registering the specific area (claim 12).
The registration means included in the vehicle system according to a preferred aspect of the present invention registers a predetermined range based on a point specified by an external operation as the specific area (Claim 13).
The predetermined range may be, for example, a range within a radius of 5 km centered on a designated point, or may be set to any value within a radius of 2 km to 10 km. For example, if you are a housewife who usually just goes shopping at a nearby store, you may not be able to understand the details of areas within a radius of 2 km or more. This is also because a person who drives a car for work is considered to have detailed information within a radius of about 10 km.

The registration means provided in the vehicle system according to a preferred aspect of the present invention is based on a point corresponding to the driver's home and a point corresponding to the driver's place of work or school, and creates a line having both ends of these two points. A predetermined range based on minutes is registered as the specific area (Claim 14).
The predetermined range may be, for example, a combination of a range within 5 km from a line segment and a range within a radius of 5 km around an end point, or a configuration in which the range can be set within a radius of 2 km to 10 km. .

In a vehicle system according to a preferred aspect of the present invention, a point corresponding to a home and a point corresponding to a place of work or school can be input in response to an external operation (claim 15).
A vehicle system according to a preferred aspect of the present invention estimates a point corresponding to the home and a point corresponding to the commuting or school destination according to the past history of the current position (Claim 16).
For example, if a driver works during the day, the location where the vehicle is frequently parked at night on weekdays can be estimated to be the home. On the other hand, it is possible to infer that the point to which the person goes every day during weekdays is his or her commute to work or school.

The registration means included in the vehicle system according to a preferred aspect of the present invention selects a route with a high travel frequency from among the history of routes traveled by the vehicle, and registers a predetermined range based on the selected route as the specific area. (Claim 17).
In this case, the specific area can be automatically generated and registered according to the use of the vehicle system. The frequently traveled route may be a route traveled a predetermined number of times or more in the past month. Furthermore, a route that has been traveled in the past week can be treated as a route that is frequently traveled. In this way, it is preferable to set a route traveled a predetermined number of times or more in a predetermined period as a route that is frequently traveled. Note that the predetermined period and the predetermined number of times may be set by the user. Also, even if you take a detour from your normal route to avoid traffic congestion, etc., it is unlikely that you will leave the original route beyond a predetermined range of 1 km or more, so use a nearby road within the predetermined range. If so, it is a good idea to register them as if they took the same route.

The acquired information acquired by the vehicle system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention includes at least information representing a specific position and information representing the current position of the vehicle,
The output mode of the audio output information differs depending on the positional relationship between the current position and the specific position (claim 18).
In the vehicle system according to a preferred aspect of the present invention, the specific location includes a speed control point where speeding enforcement is carried out, and among the plurality of types of audio output information, the traffic information indicating the approach to the speed control point is included. Control information is included (claim 19).
The acquired information taken in by the vehicle system according to a preferred aspect of the present invention includes information representing the speed of the vehicle, and the output mode of the traffic enforcement information differs depending on the speed of the vehicle (Claim 20).
For example, if the speed of the vehicle exceeds the speed limit, the frequency of output of the traffic enforcement information may be increased, or the volume of output may be increased.

The specific location in the vehicle system according to a preferred aspect of the present invention is the location of a facility where a vehicle parking space is provided and the driver can take a break, and the plurality of types of audio output information include the location of the facility. Contains break information to guide you to
The acquired information includes information representing continuous driving time, which is the elapsed time since the vehicle was switched from off to on and driving started, and the output mode of the break information differs depending on this continuous driving time. (Claim 21).
In this case, the break information can be presented at an appropriate timing when the driver may feel fatigued.

The specific location in the vehicle system according to a preferred aspect of the present invention is the location of a facility that can supply energy necessary for the operation of the prime mover of the vehicle, and the plurality of types of audio output information include the location of the facility. Contains supply information to guide you to
The acquired information includes information representing the remaining amount of energy stored in the vehicle, and the output mode of the replenishment information differs depending on this remaining amount (Claim 22).

In this case, it is possible to present the replenishment information at an appropriate timing when energy replenishment is required, while avoiding unnecessary presentation of the replenishment information in a situation where there is sufficient energy remaining. Furthermore, if the distance from the current location to the location of the nearest facility is long, the presentation timing of the replenishment information may be adjusted depending on the distance, such as presenting the replenishment information at a time when the remaining amount of energy is relatively large. It is also effective to start early.

The acquired information taken in by the vehicle system according to a preferred aspect of the present invention includes at least information representing the current time, and the plurality of types of audio output information include audio output information related to the driving situation of the vehicle. information, and general information that is output according to the time regardless of the driving situation of the vehicle (Claim 23).
The general information includes morning and evening greetings, seasonal greetings, and topics related to current events.
The audio output information related to the driving situation of the vehicle includes, for example, information that warns about road conditions depending on the time of day, such as rush hours for commuting and returning home.

The acquired information acquired by the vehicle system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention includes at least information indicating whether the vehicle is on or off, information indicating the position of the driver's home or commuting point, and information indicating the location of the vehicle. There is location information indicating the current location,
Out of the plurality of types of audio output information, depending on the combination of information contents such as the time when the vehicle was switched from off to on, and whether the current location at the time of the switch was at home or at the place of work. Select one and output it (Claim 24).

For example, if the current location is at home when the vehicle is turned on early in the morning, it is possible to assume a scene of going to work. At this time, if the audio output information such as "Good morning. Good luck with your work today." is outputted, the driver can be encouraged and motivated. On the other hand, if the current location when the vehicle is turned on in the evening or at night is at the place of work, a returning home scene can be assumed. At this time, the driver's fatigue can be relieved by outputting voice output information such as "Thank you for your hard work. Please be careful on your way home."

In the vehicle system according to a preferred aspect of the present invention, the output mode of the audio output information differs depending on whether there is a passenger other than the driver in the vehicle (Claim 25).
By changing the output mode of the audio output information depending on the presence or absence of a fellow passenger, it is possible to prevent the audio output from interfering with the conversation. There are various ways to detect a passenger, such as using an occupant sensor, using the setting information regarding the air conditioning area of an air conditioner with a zone air conditioning function, and using voice recognition to detect the presence or absence of a passenger. There is a way.

In a vehicle system according to a preferred aspect of the present invention, when selecting any one of the plurality of types of audio output information, the vehicle system selects one of the plurality of audio output information extracted as candidates. One of them is selected at random (Claim 26).
In this case, it is possible to provide unexpectedness to the audio output, and it is possible to realize a vehicle system that does not let the driver get bored.

A vehicle system according to a preferred aspect of the present invention estimates the driver's alertness level using the acquired information, and outputs the audio output information in a different manner depending on the driver's alertness level. 27).
Acquired information from which the degree of alertness can be estimated includes, for example, vehicle information such as a change in the rotational steering angle of a steering wheel, a change in an accelerator opening (throttle opening), and the like. Furthermore, if this vehicle information is combined with information regarding the elapsed time since the ignition or the like of the vehicle was turned on, it is possible to estimate the alertness level with higher accuracy. It is also possible to estimate the alertness level depending on whether the driver responds to the voice output from the vehicle system. The voice output for calling includes a call for a response from the driver, a call to reduce the speed, and the like. In the former case, the level of alertness can be estimated based on whether the driver's reply could be inputted through a sound-collecting microphone or the like. In the latter case, the alertness level can be estimated based on whether or not the vehicle information has changed in response to the call.

A vehicle system according to a preferred aspect of the present invention uses the acquired information to calculate the degree of energy consumption when the vehicle is operated, and also provides eco-information representing the degree of energy consumption for the audio output. It is output as information (claim 28).
The output of the eco-information, which is effective for energy saving, can motivate the driver to engage in fuel-saving driving (eco-driving) while enjoying it like a game.

A vehicle system according to a preferred aspect of the present invention outputs any of the audio output information as a sound when a pattern that deviates from a pattern obtained in a predetermined period in the past occurs as a combination of the information contents. (Claim 29).
When the combination of contents of the acquired information differs from a normal pattern, there is a possibility that the driver is unfamiliar with the surrounding geography. If audio output information is output when a combination of acquired information contents different from the normal pattern occurs, it is likely to help the driver.

1 is a perspective view showing the front side of the radar detector in Example 1. FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the back side of the radar detector in Example 1. FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of a radar detector in Example 1. FIG. FIG. 3 is a front view showing a standby screen in the first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a front view showing a map screen in Example 1. FIG. 1 is a front view showing a GPS alarm screen in Example 1. FIG. 3 is a front view showing an RD alarm screen in Example 1. FIG. FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram of an alarm mode in the first embodiment. An explanatory diagram of pronunciation frequency in Example 1. An explanatory diagram of a character in Example 1. An explanatory diagram of pronunciation conditions in Example 1. FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram showing the relationship between pronunciation conditions and pronunciation frequency in Example 1. FIG. FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram showing the relationship between pronunciation frequency and characters in Example 1. FIG. FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of setting words for each time period in the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of setting words according to a calendar in the first embodiment. FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of setting words corresponding to a specific period in the first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a flow diagram illustrating the flow of pronunciation processing in the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of registration of a specific area in the first embodiment. FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram illustrating pronunciation specifications in Example 2. FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a pronunciation specification based on event combinations in Example 2; FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the sound specifications of the Orbis countdown in the second embodiment. FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram illustrating sound production specifications according to the RD reception level in the second embodiment. FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram illustrating sound specifications according to vehicle information in the second embodiment.

Embodiments of the present invention will be specifically described using the following examples.
(Example 1)
This example relates to a radar detector which is a preferred embodiment of the vehicle system of the present invention. The contents will be explained with reference to FIGS. 1 to 18.
The radar detector 1 of this example, whose main function is to issue warnings regarding traffic enforcement, has a chatter function that outputs greetings and the like aloud (hereinafter referred to as pronunciation).

As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the radar detector 1 of this example includes a thin rectangular case body 2, and is attached to a vehicle dashboard or the like via a bracket 28 that is attached from the bottom of the back side of the case body 2. This is an in-vehicle device that is attached to the vehicle. Note that this radar detector 1 can also be installed on the back side of a sun visor, the back side of a room mirror, etc. depending on the change of the bracket 28.

A touch panel 15 with a 3.2-inch color screen is provided on the front surface of the case body 2 facing the driver when installed. The touch panel 15 is a display panel in which a transparent sheet-like touch screen 151 (FIG. 3) that detects a touch position is laminated on a TFT dot matrix liquid crystal display 152 (FIG. 3). A volume adjustment button 21 is arranged on the right outer side of the touch panel 15 when viewed from the driver's side, and various operation buttons 22 such as a power button, and a light emitting part 23 in which a full color LED 127 is embedded are arranged on the left outer side. At the lower right of the touch panel 15, a light receiving surface 25 of an infrared light receiving section 128 that receives infrared light from an operation remote controller (not shown) is provided. The radar detector 1 of this example can be operated by a fingertip touch operation on the touch panel 15, a button operation, a remote control operation, etc.

A card insertion slot 27 for inserting a memory card 171 such as an SD card, which is a removable recording medium, is provided on the right side of the case body 2 when viewed from the driver's side. A USB connector 20 is provided at the bottom of the back of the case body 2. A cigarette plug cord extending from a cigarette lighter socket of a vehicle, an OBD adapter cord including an OBD (On-board Diagnostics) connector, which will be described later, a USB cable, and the like are connected to the USB connector 20. The radar detector 1 operates by receiving power supply through these cords connected to the USB connector 20.

As shown in FIG. 3, the radar detector 1 is electrically configured with a control section 10 as its center. In addition to the above configuration, the control unit 10 includes a GPS receiver 121, a microwave receiver 122, a wireless receiver 123, an acceleration sensor 124, a gyro 125, a clock unit 126, a speaker 16, a memory card reader 17, etc. are electrically connected. Furthermore, the radar detector 1 is provided with a database 100 that can be accessed from the control unit 10.

The GPS receiver 121 is a receiver that receives GPS signals from GPS satellites and outputs current time, current position information (latitude and longitude), current speed, altitude, etc. The GPS receiver 121 is built into the case body 2 so as to be located above the center on the back side of the radar detector 1. Note that it is also possible for the control unit 10, which has acquired the position information of the current position from the GPS receiver 121, to calculate the speed of the vehicle based on changes in the current position.

The microwave receiver 122 is a receiver that receives radar waves in the microwave band emitted from a speed measuring device (hereinafter simply referred to as radar) such as a mobile radar.
The radio receiver 123 is a receiver that receives radio waves of a predetermined frequency. The radio receiver 123 of this example can be selectively set to any one of a plurality of frequencies so as to be compatible with various radio waves.
The microwave receiver 122 and the radio receiver 123 are built into the case body 2 so as to be located on the back side of the radar detector 1. Such a built-in position is suitable for receiving radio waves and the like coming from the front of the vehicle. Note that in the microwave receiver 122, five levels of microwave electric field strength are set from Lv1 to Lv5 from the lowest strength to the lowest.

The clock unit 126 is a clock that outputs calendar information. The calendar information includes data representing the year, month, and day, and data representing the current time. When the current time can be obtained from the GPS receiver 121 once a day, the current time (including date and time) of the clock unit 126 is calibrated to the current time obtained from the GPS receiver 121.
The speaker 16 is assembled within the case body 2 so as to be able to output audio and the like through a speaker hole (not shown) opened in the bottom surface of the case body 2.
The memory card reader 17 transfers the data recorded on the memory card 171 to the read control unit 10. A memory card 171 inserted into the card insertion slot 27 is attached to the memory card reader 17 .

The control unit 10 is constituted by a microcomputer (not shown) including a CPU, nonvolatile memory such as ROM, RAM, and EEPROM, I/O, and the like.
The ROM stores software programs and the like that are executed by the CPU.
The storage area of nonvolatile memory such as EEPROM includes a history storage area that stores vehicle movement history (history of current position), a setting information storage area that stores setting information such as alarm settings and chat settings, and A personal information storage area is provided to store personal information regarding a certain driver.

The database 100 is constituted by a nonvolatile memory (eg, EEPROM) inside the microcomputer of the control unit 10 or externally attached to the microcomputer. The database 100 at the time of product shipment stores map data, GPS content including location information of warning targets, various facilities, tourist spots, etc., regulatory information such as speed limits, and various other audio output information. There is. Furthermore, the database 100 stores a large amount of audio data used for text to speech (TTS). The audio data includes data corresponding to frequently occurring phrases such as "Good morning" and data corresponding to phonemes.
The audio output information in the database 100 includes information that supports driving and information that is not directly related to driving. The former driving support information includes warning information, which is specific support information, and other driving support information. The latter information that is not directly related to driving includes general information that is sounded according to the time regardless of the driving situation of the vehicle, and other information.

Data stored in the database 100 can be updated using a memory card 171. When a memory card 171 storing updated data such as map data, GPS content, and audio output information is inserted into the memory card reader 17, the updated data is read out under the control of the control unit 10, and the data in the database 100 is read out. can be updated. In particular, by adding or updating audio output information, it is possible to change the manner of pronunciation and increase variations. Note that it is also possible to update the database 100 by connecting a PC with update data stored in a hard disk or the like via USB.

The radar detector 1 realizes various functions by causing the CPU to execute software programs read from the ROM. The functions of the radar detector 1 of this example include a display function for displaying various screens on the touch panel 15, an alarm function for issuing various alarms, a log function, a chat function, an OBD function, a setting function, a registration function, and the like. The alarm functions include a GPS alarm function, an RD alarm function, a wireless alarm function, and the like. In the control unit 10, means corresponding to each function are formed.

The display function is a function to display various display screens on the touch panel 15. Display screens include a standby screen 31 and a map screen 32 that are alternatively displayed when the alarm target event (described later) is in standby mode, as well as a map screen 32 that is switched and displayed depending on the occurrence of the alarm target event. There are a GPS alarm screen 35, an RD alarm screen 36, a wireless alarm screen (not shown), and the like. Note that the specific configuration of each screen will be described later with reference to FIGS. 4 to 7.

The log function is a function that stores the current position detected by the GPS receiver 121 every second in the history storage area and records it as a position history. The current position is stored in association with the detection time and the speed (vehicle speed) at that time. This position history is recorded, for example, in NMEA format.

The OBD function is a function for acquiring vehicle information via an OBD port (failure diagnosis port) provided on the vehicle side based on the OBD2 standard, which is a vehicle inspection standard. This OBD function functions only in a situation where the radar detector 1 is connected to the vehicle side via an OBD adapter cord including an OBD connector connected to the OBD port on the vehicle side. Vehicle information that can be obtained from the OBD port of the vehicle includes, for example, vehicle speed, engine speed, engine load factor, ignition timing, intake manifold pressure, intake air flow rate (MAF), injection opening time, engine coolant temperature (cooling water temperature), temperature of the air taken into the engine (intake temperature), air temperature outside the vehicle (outside air temperature), fuel flow rate, instantaneous fuel consumption, accelerator opening (throttle opening), turn signal information (left and right turn signal operation information) , brake opening degree, steering wheel rotation angle information, etc. Note that the OBD function captures vehicle information every 0.5 seconds.

The setting function is a function for making various settings regarding the operation of the radar detector 1. Settings can be broadly categorized into alarm settings, chat settings, and personal information settings.
The alarm setting is a setting of a driving support mode regarding an alarm by the above-mentioned alarm function. Alarm information, which is specific support information, is sounded in accordance with this alarm setting.
The chatter settings are settings related to the pronunciation of audio output information other than alarm information.
The personal information settings are settings related to the personal information of the driver who is the user. When performing pronunciation using the chatter function, the pronunciation mode may be determined by referring to personal information set as personal information settings, such as whether to perform pronunciation or not.

The registration function is a function for registering a specific area with which the user (driver) has a personal relationship, and is executed by a registration means realized by software in the control unit 10. Specific areas include areas surrounding one's home, areas within a predetermined range based on a line segment connecting one's home and one's workplace, and areas surrounding My Points registered by the user. For example, a specific area surrounding the home or My Points is registered as an area within a predetermined radius around the home or My Points. This radius may be set to, for example, approximately 5 km to 10 km.

The chatting function is a function for producing a voice synthesized by the CPU from the speaker 16. The audio output information targeted by the chatter function is audio output information other than the warning information (specific support information) regarding traffic enforcement according to the warning setting. The audio output information targeted by the chatter function includes a variety of information, including driving support information such as information that supplements the content of warning information, as well as information that is not directly related to driving.

The GPS warning function is a function that warns of approaching a warning target such as an Orbis (automatic speed control device). In the GPS alarm function, calculation processing for determining the distance between the location of the alarm target and the current location is repeatedly executed at predetermined time intervals (for example, 1 second). When this distance reaches a predetermined approach distance and an event called warning point approach occurs, a GPS warning indicating this event is executed.

As shown in Figure 8, the targets of the GPS alarm function are Orbis, enforcement areas, inspection areas, intersection monitoring points, parking monitoring areas, N systems, traffic monitoring systems, red light prevention systems, police stations, accident-prone areas, and cars. There are areas where upward aiming is common, sharp curves, branching and merging points, ETC lanes, etc. In the database 100, the type information of these targets, the position information (latitude and longitude) indicating the position (specific position), the schematic diagram or photograph data to be displayed on the touch panel 15, and the audio data are associated with each other. It is stored as GPS content. Warning targets may include drowsy driving accident locations, radar, speed limit switching points, and the like.

In addition, GPS contents other than those targeted by the GPS alarm function include service areas (expressways), parking areas (expressways), highway oasis (expressways), smart interchanges (expressways), and gas stations in PA/SA (expressways). Expressways), tunnels (expressways), highway radio reception areas (expressways), prefectural border announcements, roadside stations, view point parking, etc. The audio output information regarding these GPS contents is pronounced by the chatter function.

The RD warning function is a function that warns of the incidence of radar waves (microwaves) emitted from a radar enforcement device. When an event in which the microwave receiver 122 receives a radar wave (hereinafter referred to as RD reception) occurs, an RD alarm indicating this event is executed.

The wireless warning function is a function to issue a warning so as not to interfere with the movement of emergency vehicles, etc. When an event of receiving radio waves emitted by an emergency vehicle or the like (hereinafter referred to as "wireless reception") occurs, a radio warning is issued to alert the driver. Warning targets include enforcement radio, car location radio, digital radio, special small radio, police radio, police telephone, police radio, tow radio, helicopter radio, fire helicopter radio, fire radio, emergency radio, highway radio, There is a security radio etc.

The basic operation of the alarm function, which is the main function of the radar detector 1 of this example configured as described above and is realized by control of the control unit 10 and the like, will be explained. In a standby state in which an event to be alerted such as RD reception, radio reception, or approach to a warning point has not occurred, the standby state is in which the standby screen 31 (FIG. 4) or the map screen 32 (FIG. 5) is displayed. When any event occurs in this standby state, processing for executing the corresponding function among the GPS alarm function, RD alarm function, and wireless alarm function is executed. Note that when two or more events occur simultaneously, the priority of each function is from the highest to the RD alarm function, the wireless alarm function, and the GPS alarm function.

On the standby screen 31 in FIG. 4, the speed, latitude, longitude, and altitude of the own vehicle detected by the GPS receiver 121 are displayed. The map screen 32 in FIG. 5 displays a map around the current location detected by the GPS receiver 121. In response to a single touch operation on the standby screen 31 or the map screen 32, a menu screen (not shown) including screen switching buttons pops up. By touching the screen switching button, the standby screen 31 and the map screen 32 can be switched and displayed.

On the map screen 32, as shown in FIG. 5, a map is displayed in a main display area R1 that covers almost the entire surface of the touch panel 15. On the map screen 32, the map is displayed so that the traveling direction of the vehicle is always facing upward and the center of the lower part of the main display area R1 is the current vehicle position. A own vehicle icon 301 is displayed at the own vehicle position. At the top of the map screen 32, a horizontally long status area R2 for displaying status information is arranged. The status information displayed in the status area R2 includes, from the left, the current time 321, the reception level display icon 322 that indicates the reception level of GPS radio waves with a maximum of three bars, the most important area where parking is prohibited, and the most important area where parking is prohibited. A no-parking area icon 323 indicates that the area is within the parking area, a reception sensitivity mode display icon 324 that indicates the radar reception sensitivity, a current vehicle speed 325, and a magnetic compass 326. In the status area R2 that is displayed superimposed on the main display area R1, characters and symbols are displayed within a transparent frame so that the map information in the main display area R1 can be seen through and visually recognized. Note that the LH display 302 in the main display area R1 indicates an LH type orbis.

On the map screen 32, a scale display area R3 for displaying scale information (map scale) is provided on the left side of the main display area R1. In this scale display area R3, the distance between the upper end position and the intermediate position of the main display area R1 is displayed in numbers with the own vehicle position as a reference (0 m). In FIG. 5, scale information is illustrated in which the top position is 1000 meters and the middle position is 500 meters. Note that the scale of the map on the map screen 32 can be changed using a map scale change button (not shown) that pops up in response to two consecutive touch operations on the main display area R1. By touching this map scale change button, the scale of the map screen 32 can be changed as appropriate. When the scale of the map screen 32 is changed, the scale information in the scale display area R3 is changed accordingly.

In the standby state, when an alarm target event such as RD reception, radio reception, or approach to a warning point occurs, an alarm screen is displayed superimposed on the standby screen 31 or the map screen 32, and alarm information to that effect is sounded. . At this time, the color of the light emitted from the light emitting unit 23 changes from blue, which indicates the standby state, to red, thereby indicating that caution is required.
In the case of a GPS alarm, a GPS alarm screen 35 illustrated in FIG. 6 is displayed. The GPS alarm screen 35 is a display screen in which a GPS alarm display 350 showing a schematic diagram of the alarm target, remaining distance, etc. is displayed in the main display area R1.
In the case of an RD alarm, an RD alarm screen 36 illustrated in FIG. 7 is displayed. The RD alarm screen 36 is a display screen in which an RD alarm display 360 including a schematic diagram or a photograph of the radar is displayed in the main display area R1. Note that the distance to the radar 365 at the bottom of the RD alarm display 360 displays the distance estimated from the electric field strength (Lv1 to Lv5) of the received radar wave.
In the case of a wireless alarm, a wireless alarm screen, which is not shown because it is almost the same as the RD alarm, is displayed.

Next, the specifications and contents of the pronunciation that characterize the radar detector 1 of this example will be explained. The pronunciation is performed by a chatter function and an alarm function (GPS alarm function, RD alarm function, and wireless alarm function). Both functions are realized by control of the control unit 10 and the like.
First, the sounding of alarm information (specific support information) by the alarm function is executed according to the alarm settings shown in FIG. Driving support modes based on alarm settings include normal mode, minimum mode, special mode, all-on mode, and manual mode. The normal mode is the initial setting mode when the product is shipped. In each mode other than the manual mode, the operation (on/off) corresponding to each alarm target is predefined. In manual mode, the user can manually set actions according to the alarm target.

The minimum mode is a setting in which only the minimum necessary alarm targets are alerted in all of the RD alarm function, wireless alarm function, and GPS alarm function. The normal mode is a mode that emphasizes the balance between functions, and is set to issue an alarm on items of high importance among enforcement-related items in addition to the items in the minimum mode. In addition to the items in normal mode, special mode is set to alert on all items related to enforcement.

The pronunciation by the chatter function is executed according to the chatter setting and the personal information setting.
Personal information set by personal information includes, for example, (1) location information of home location, (2) location information of workplace (company, government office, etc.), (3) location information of commuting destination, (4) registration by user. (5) Personal information such as the birthday, preferences, and hobbies of the user (driver), etc. Note that these personal information can be set using a personal information setting screen (not shown) displayed on the touch panel 15.

The chatter settings include settings such as pronunciation frequency (output mode), character settings (expression mode), and pronunciation conditions (voice output conditions). Note that the chat settings can be set using a chat settings screen (not shown).
As for the pronunciation frequency, as shown in FIG. 9, there are three output frequency settings, starting from the highest frequency: talkative, normal, and quiet. The chatter mode is an output mode suitable for single-person driving, and generates sounds frequently. Quiet mode is an output mode suitable for driving when a passenger is present, and noise is kept to a minimum so as not to interfere with conversation. The normal mode is an output mode in which the same level of sound generation as a conventional radar detector is performed.
As for the character settings, as shown in Figure 10, the normal character is calm like a conventional radar detector, the passenger seat is a close character like a friend, lover, or family member who talks to you from the passenger seat, and the cockpit of a fighter jet or spaceship. There is a character cockpit that emits tense words based on the image of Lei, a popular anime character.
As shown in FIG. 11, five types of sound generation conditions are set in advance. The pronunciation conditions are designed to be almost impossible to manually set by the user. The pronunciation conditions include (1) words and phrases at the opening, (2) words and phrases when the event to be alerted occurs, (3) words and phrases when approaching other content, and (4) words and phrases using vehicle information, etc. , (5) words and phrases used when arriving at a specific registration point.

In the radar detector 1 of this example, as shown in FIG. 12, the pronunciation conditions under which audio output is executed differ depending on the pronunciation frequency. For example, in chatty mode, the sound is executed under all sound generation conditions, while in the quiet mode, the sound generation condition is set only when the above-mentioned (2) alarm target event occurs. When set to , the pronunciation is similar to that of a conventional radar detector that does not have a chatter function. Note that the symbol △ in the sound generation condition 5 in the normal mode means that the user can select whether or not to generate sound.
Furthermore, in the radar detector 1 of this example, as shown in FIG. 13, the sound frequency modes that can be set for each character are different. For example, for a normal character, a quiet mode and a normal mode can be set, but a chatty mode cannot be set. While the cockpit character can be set to talk mode and normal mode, it is not possible to set quiet mode.

Specific examples of pronunciation by the radar detector 1 of this example will be explained for each pronunciation condition. As shown in FIG. 11, the audio output information in the radar detector 1 of this example is classified into five groups, the first word group to the fifth word group, for each pronunciation condition. Among these, the audio output information belonging to the second word group is alarm information (specific support information) that is produced by the alarm function. The audio output information belonging to the first and third to fifth word groups is audio output information using the chatter function. The radar detector 1 of this example selects and pronounces one of the voice output information according to the combination of information contents of multiple types of acquired information such as current position and time, but each word group is referred to. There is a difference in the combination of types of acquired information.

(1) Words at the opening (first word group)
Depending on the combination of information contents of acquired information such as vehicle ignition information, current time, current location of vehicle, and personal information based on personal information settings, any of the audio output information belonging to the first word group is pronounced. The first word group includes audio output information that is not related to vehicle driving operations. Such audio output information is useful for soothing the driver (user) and preventing him from getting bored.

For example, the first word group includes audio output information corresponding to date and time, as shown in FIGS. 14 to 16. FIG. 14 shows audio output information regarding greetings for each time period of the day. Using the audio output information in the same figure, for example, when the ignition is turned on at 10:30 a.m. on June 11th (Monday), "Good morning. Today is Monday, June 11th." It is also good to pronounce. FIG. 15 shows audio output information regarding greetings related to the calendar of the year. For example, in the case of a holiday, the name of the holiday may be pronounced using the audio output information shown in the figure. It is also good to perform pronunciations related to personal information set by the user, such as a specific day of an event or the driver's birthday. FIG. 16 shows audio output information that calls attention to specific periods such as Golden Week and Obon. By using the audio output information shown in the same figure to announce, for example, that there is a risk of traffic congestion during consecutive holidays, drivers can be urged to drive with caution. It is also effective to inform drivers about traffic safety week and encourage them to drive safely. Note that when it is a weekday and not during a specific period, it is also good to make a sound that urges caution while driving depending on the time of day. For example, if it is from 7:00 am to 9:00 am, ``This is the rush hour for commuting. Be careful of pedestrians on their way to school.'', and if it is from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm, ``This is the rush hour for returning home. "Let's be careful about pedestrians driving late at night," or "Let's be careful when driving late at night." between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. the next day.

Next, examples of pronunciation of words during the opening will be explained.
(1-1) Home When the ignition (power supply) of a vehicle parked at home is turned on, the sound generation process illustrated in FIG. 17 is executed. The sound generation process starts when the ignition of the vehicle is turned on (S101), and first, a greeting corresponding to the current time is sounded (S102). Subsequently, the date is determined (S103), and the subsequent pronunciation content differs depending on whether that day is a weekday, a weekend, a holiday, or a specific day (S104, S114, S124). Furthermore, if the vehicle is expected to be used for commuting or the like during a specific time period, a sound appropriate to the usage situation is generated (S105). Furthermore, if the day falls within a specific period, a sound is made to provide the information (S115), and the sound generation process is ended (S106).

For example, if the current time when the vehicle's ignition is turned on is in the time zone from 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m., and the current location is at home, the combination of information contents indicates that It is possible to imagine the scene. Depending on the chat setting, for example, it is recommended to pronounce something like "Good morning. Good luck with your work today." Additionally, it's good to pronounce the date.
(1-2) Place of work Information that indicates that the current time when the vehicle ignition was turned on is in the time period from 4:00 pm to 6:30 pm, and that the current location is the place of work. In the case of a combination, the scene of returning home can be assumed. Depending on the chat setting, for example, a pronunciation such as "Thank you for your hard work. Please be careful when going home." is performed. Further, in the case of a combination of information contents in which the current time is replaced with a time belonging to 6:30 p.m. to 11:00 p.m., it is possible to assume that the worker returns from overtime. In this case, it is possible to pronounce something like, "Thank you for staying up late. Let's drive carefully and go home."
(1-3) School destinations Students may commute to universities or vocational schools by vehicle. In the case of universities and vocational schools, there are large variations in the end times of classes and extracurricular activities, making it difficult to plan when students will return home depending on the time. Therefore, in the case of a combination of information contents in which the current location when the vehicle's ignition is turned on is the school destination, a voice message such as "Did you have fun today? How was your study?" will be randomly displayed. It is also a good idea to pronounce the word and add a pronunciation at the end, such as "Please drive carefully."

(2) Words and phrases used when the event to be alerted occurs (second word group)
Depending on the combination of information content of acquired information such as the type of event that occurred, speed limit information, current position of the vehicle, and vehicle speed information, any of the warning information (specific support information) belonging to the second word group pronounced. Events to be alerted include the approach to the alert point, the RD reception, the radio reception, and the like.
Note that the alarm information is pronounced according to the alarm setting, regardless of the sound frequency during the chat setting, and only the mode of expression differs depending on the character setting during the chat setting. With such a setting, the frequency of sound produced by the main alarm function of the radar detector 1 of this example can be made consistent regardless of the chatter setting. If the pronunciation is consistent, the timing of the pronunciation of the warning will be constant, so it is possible to prevent the user (driver) from missing the warning.

For example, if the combination of information indicates that the vehicle's current location is within 1 km of Orbis (automatic speed control device) and the speed is above the speed limit, then under the cockpit character settings, you can select Warning information (traffic enforcement information) such as "You are locked! Reduce your speed now!" is sounded. In addition, in the case of a combination of information contents in which the speed is within the speed limit, warning information such as "Enemy detected 1 km ahead! Proceed while maintaining the current status!" is sounded.

(3) Words when approaching other content (third word group)
Depending on the combination of information contents such as location information (GPS content) of specific facilities, current location of the vehicle, continuous driving time of the user (driver), etc., the third word group Any piece of audio output information belonging to is pronounced.
(3-1) Rest facilities When driving on an expressway and approaching a rest facility such as a service area, parking area, or highway oasis, the combination of information that indicates that the continuous driving time exceeds 2 hours. In this case, rest information such as "Thank you for driving for a long time. Would you like to take a break now? There is a service area 1 km away." is pronounced. If the combination of information indicates that the traffic jam has exceeded a certain time instead of the continuous driving time, it is also good to pronounce rest information such as "Aren't you tired from the traffic jam?" Furthermore, when the continuous operation time becomes too long, break information is issued that strongly urges the user to take a break, such as, ``Continuous operation any longer than this will put the mission at risk! Take a break at the service area 1 km away!!''It's also good to do. Note that even while driving on a general road, similar rest information can be sounded when the vehicle approaches a rest facility such as a roadside station.

Whether the vehicle is on an expressway or a local road may be determined by using a well-known map matching calculation to determine whether the vehicle's current position is on a highway or a local road. The determination may be made by discrimination. With the latter method, it is difficult to completely determine the type of road, so it is best to clearly state in the product manual that it may not be possible to automatically determine whether the road is an expressway or a local road. While the radar detector 1 is provided with a means for setting the type of road the vehicle is traveling on, it is also good to write in the product manual that accurate rest information can be presented if the type of road is set. Further, as a method for detecting traffic congestion, for example, there is a detection method that determines that there is traffic congestion when the speed of the vehicle is less than 30 km/hr while driving on an expressway.
(3-2) Viewpoint parking (tourist parking lot)
If the combination of information indicates that the current location of the vehicle is outside the specified area registered based on the home location and work location, and the current location is near a viewpoint parking, the name of the viewpoint. Tourist information such as tourist attractions and attractions is pronounced. For example, as shown in Figure 18, the specific areas include a circular area with a radius of 5 km centered on your home, a circular area with a radius of 5 km centered on your place of work, and a width centered on a straight line connecting your home and work. It is best to set and register an area that is a combination of a 10 km rectangular area. By registering such a specific area, users can avoid pronunciation of tourist information that is near their home or work and is unnecessary for the user.
(3-3) Others In the case of a combination of information such as approaching a long tunnel or a series of tunnels while driving on an expressway, "There is a long tunnel. Please turn on your lights and drive carefully." etc. The pronunciation is executed. Furthermore, in the case of a combination of information contents such as "the vehicle is driving near a parking lot", it is possible to pronounce "There is a parking lot nearby." In the case of a combination of information contents such as driving near a fire engine, it is possible to pronounce something like "There is a fire station nearby. Please be careful of emergency vehicles."

(4) Phrases using vehicle information, etc. (4th word group)
Depending on the combination of the contents of the acquired information including vehicle information etc., any of the audio output information belonging to the fourth word group is pronounced. Examples of the vehicle information include vehicle information acquired by the OBD function, internal information acquired by internal devices such as the acceleration sensor 124, the gyro 125, and the clock unit 126 (FIG. 3).
(4-1) Refueling information Information that indicates that the amount remaining in the tank is estimated to be less than the specified amount using the fuel flow rate obtained by the OBD function, and that you are driving near a gas station. In the case of a combination, it is best to say something like, "I'm running low on gas. There's a gas station 1 km away. Would you like to stop by?" Note that the remaining amount in the tank can be estimated by subtracting the fuel usage amount, which is the cumulative total of fuel flow rates, from the tank capacity registered in advance by the user. Note that when the tank capacity is unknown, refueling information (replenishment information) may be sounded according to the amount of fuel used. Note that this example illustrates a vehicle that runs using gasoline as an energy source. In the case of an electric vehicle, the energy required for driving is electricity.
(4-2) Drowsiness alarm The driver's alertness is estimated based on the steering wheel rotation angle, accelerator opening, etc., and when the alertness falls below a threshold, a warning is given that the alertness is decreasing. Pronounce the information for audio output.
(4-3) Eco information Eco points representing the degree of achievement of eco-driving are totaled based on accelerator opening degree, fuel flow rate, etc., and audio output information to praise or encourage is produced according to the eco points. The sound generation timing may be a random timing or a timing when the eco point reaches a specific point. The degree of achievement of eco-driving is determined not only by the degree of fuel consumption per distance, but also by the rate of occurrence of situations in which the accelerator is depressed beyond the specified accelerator opening (percentage of driving distance, driving time, etc.), and It is possible to use the degree of lowness of the occurrence rate of braking, the occurrence rate of sudden steering, the occurrence rate of sudden acceleration, etc. Furthermore, the degree of eco-driving may be determined by combining these degrees.
(4-4) Others It is also good to pronounce various types of audio output information at random timing. In particular, if the cumulative driving time within a certain period of time becomes long, randomly emitting sounds can relieve the driver's drowsiness and make him or her more entertained.
If you install a memory card 171 that stores various information such as news and weather in addition to public enforcement information, you can record things like ``Something happened on XX month, XX day,'' or ``Today's weather is... It is possible to pronounce information for voice output such as "It's raining, do you have an umbrella?" or "It seems that △△ will be held at ○○ this weekend." At this time, it is preferable to keep track of the update date and time of the data and to compare it with the current time so that information based on old data is not emitted. Furthermore, for users who do not frequently update their public enforcement information, a voice message will be sent to prompt them to update their public enforcement information, such as "The data is outdated. If you update it, we would be able to help you even more..." The output information may be pronounced.

(5) Phrases when arriving at a specific registration point (specific position) (5th word group)
Depending on the combination of information contents such as the location information of a specific registered point and the current location of the vehicle, any of the audio output information belonging to the fifth word group is pronounced.
(5-1) When arriving at the registered workplace When the current location of the vehicle matches the registered workplace location, audio output information such as "Good luck with your work today." is pronounced. . Thereafter, when the ignition of the vehicle is turned off, information such as the distance traveled, travel time, fuel consumption, fuel efficiency, etc. at that time may be emitted.
(5-2) When arriving at the registered home When the current location of the vehicle matches the registered home location, audio output information such as "Thank you for your hard work today. Please take a good rest." is output. do. If you include the current time in the combination of types of acquired information, you will be able to pronounce even more clever and comfortable phrases. For example, in the case of returning home at 2:00 pm, the user's sense of discomfort can be suppressed by avoiding the usual greeting for returning home.
(5-3) When the user arrives at the My Point location registered by the user When the current location of the vehicle matches the My Point location, audio output information such as "You have arrived at My Point" can be pronounced.

According to the radar detector 1 of this example configured as described above, it is possible to appropriately pronounce useful information required by the user (driver). This radar detector 1 is based on multiple types of acquired information, including personal information such as the location of home or work, date of birth, preferences, hobbies, etc., and detects any information depending on the combination of the information contents. pronounce. Therefore, information useful to each driver can be appropriately pronounced. For example, in areas surrounding the user's home, work, or commuting route, the pronunciation of tourist information and rest information is determined to be not useful for the user, and the pronunciation is restricted. On the other hand, in areas where the user is expected to be unfamiliar, tourist information and rest information are determined to be useful to the user and are actively pronounced. Further, since break information is not useful for a driver who has just finished a break, break information is appropriately presented in consideration of continuous driving time, time of day (3:00 p.m., etc.), and the like. In addition to providing detailed driving support for each individual driver, such appropriately presented information is extremely useful for soothing and entertaining the driver through audio output.

The radar detector 1 of this example emits information that supports driving, such as warning information, as well as information that is not directly related to driving. Among the information that is not directly related to driving, there is also information that is emitted according to the time regardless of the driving situation of the vehicle. In this radar detector 1, alarm information is emitted according to the alarm setting, and other information is emitted according to the chatter setting. Such a specification is a very effective specification for providing consistency in the alarm function, which is the main function of the radar detector 1, regardless of the chat setting regarding the chat function, which is an additional function. The driver, who is the user, can enjoy the chat function with his/her preferred chat settings without worrying about the effect on the warning function, which is the main purpose of purchasing the radar detector 1.

The chatting function provides information that is appropriate for each driver, surprising information when the driver's behavior pattern is different from usual, and different information every day even if the behavior pattern is the same, so users can enjoy the game without getting bored. It incorporates a variety of innovations to make it usable, as well as to provide useful information to users. For users who are accustomed to using such a chatting function, this chatting function becomes an essential function in addition to the main warning function that motivates purchase, and can be an added value of the radar detector 1 of this example. For users who consider the chat function to be an added value, the radar detector 1 of this example equipped with the chat function will be a very attractive product. If the number of such users increases, we can expect that more repeat customers will choose a new product that inherits the design concept of the radar detector 1 of this example, without having to confuse it with other radar detectors when purchasing a new one.

Note that the chatter setting (setting of character and pronunciation frequency) is preferably the same for all pronunciation conditions. This is because the pronunciation under each pronunciation condition can be made consistent. In particular, if a common chatter setting is applied at the start of driving, during driving, and at the end of driving, consistent pronunciation can be achieved from the time the user gets into the vehicle until the user gets out of the vehicle. Alternatively, the pronunciation frequency may be set differently for each pronunciation condition, while the character may be set in common for each pronunciation condition.

It is preferable to prepare multiple types of audio output information for combinations of similar information contents. For example, if you prepare about 30 phrases for similar combinations of information content as audio output information for the first word group, which is the opening phrase, the same combination of information content will be repeated for one month. Even if it is possible to pronounce a different phrase every day. By pronouncing a different word every day, you can surprise the user (driver). The user, the driver, will want to hear what words are pronounced next time, and will look forward to it every day. Once you have this kind of fun, you can use the chatting function of this product for a long time without getting tired of it.

When the vehicle is traveling on a route that is different from the travel route in the travel history stored in the history storage area, the driver may be unfamiliar with the surrounding geography, so messages such as "There is a convenience store in this neighborhood" may be displayed. It is good to pronounce geographical information such as town information and tourist information. Furthermore, the frequency of pronunciation of the geographical information may be changed depending on the degree of distance from the most recent position in the stored movement history to the current position. As this distance increases, it can be assumed that the user (driver) is farther from his hometown and is unfamiliar with geography, so it is better to increase the frequency of pronunciation of geographic information.

It is also possible to provide an information pattern storage area in the storage area of the nonvolatile memory to store patterns of combinations of information contents of acquired information. When the user (driver) behaves in a pattern different from usual, a new pattern that is not stored in the information pattern storage area appears. The radar detector 1 side can detect the occurrence of unusual behavior in response to the appearance of such a new pattern. For example, in the case of opening phrases (first phrase group), a pattern of combinations of information contents of acquired information such as vehicle ignition information, current time, vehicle's current position, personal information, etc. is memorized, When a new pattern different from the pattern obtained during the most recent month or week is obtained, pronunciation may be performed in accordance with the combination of information contents. On the other hand, if the ignition of the vehicle at home is turned on at around 6 o'clock every morning, a pattern of combinations of information contents is memorized, but if the ignition is turned on later than that, the ignition will be displayed as "Good morning". It is also a good idea to say, ``It's a little slower than usual, but please be careful and drive slowly.'' Or, when your car's ignition is turned on at 5am, say something like, "You're early today. The roads are relatively empty, but please be careful not to drive too fast." It is also good to carry out.

This example is an example of a stand-alone vehicle system in which the radar detector 1 makes various sounds. Instead of this example, it is also possible to configure a vehicle system by providing the radar detector 1 with a network function, and also having a database of audio output information and including a base station that can be accessed via the network. .

While adding a means to detect the presence or absence of a fellow passenger, it is also possible to change the character settings and pronunciation frequency depending on the presence or absence of a fellow passenger. For example, even if the chatter mode is set as the sound frequency, if there is a passenger, it may be possible to temporarily set the quiet mode. In this case, it is possible to avoid a situation in which the radar detector 1 interferes with a conversation with a fellow passenger. As a means of detecting a fellow passenger, a method using a pressure sensor embedded in the seat or a means of detecting a fellow passenger by performing image processing etc. on an image taken by an imaging camera installed toward the inside of the vehicle can be adopted. .

(Example 2)
This example is based on the radar detector 1 of the first embodiment, with additional sound production specifications. The contents will be explained with reference to FIGS. 19 to 23.
In the radar detector of this example, the sound generation specifications shown in FIG. 19 are set. Note that the specifications in the figure include specifications that overlap with those of the first embodiment.
Note that in this example, the setting of the pronunciation frequency is slightly different from that in the first embodiment. This is similar to Example 1 in that there are three output mode settings, starting from the highest frequency: talkative, normal, and quiet, but the difference is that the output mode has the same sound frequency as a conventional radar detector in the quiet mode. are doing. Chat mode is an output mode for drivers who want to hear all warnings and various information. The quiet mode is an output mode for drivers who want to drive quietly and enjoy the same warnings as traditional radar detectors. The normal mode is an intermediate mode between the two, and is an output mode for drivers who want to receive more information such as Orbis and inspection than conventional radar detectors.

The pronunciation based on the event combination in Figure 19 is the pronunciation specification when two or more of multiple types of events occur simultaneously, such as approaching GPS content (GPS content approach), RD reception, and wireless reception. (FIG. 20), which is an additional specification to the first embodiment. In addition to the above, target events include specific vehicle information capture events, such as importing vehicle information that exceeds the speed limit by 10km/h or more, and importing vehicle information that indicates traffic congestion is expected. be.
The sound specifications for the Orbis countdown are the sound specifications when approaching the Orbis (Figure 21).
The sound generation according to the RD reception level (Lv) is a specification for generating sound according to changes in the Lv intensity (FIG. 22).
The pronunciation according to the vehicle information is a pronunciation specification based on the vehicle information etc. acquired by the radar detector (FIG. 23).

As can be seen from FIG. 19, when the sound generation frequency during chatter setting is set to the quiet mode, the sound generation based on the event combination or the sound generation according to the vehicle information is not executed. If a user wants the same pronunciation as the conventional radar detector 1, the frequency of pronunciation can be suppressed by setting the quiet mode, and the pronunciation is the same as the conventional radar detector 1, except for the pronunciation according to the RD reception level. Specifications. On the other hand, when the chat mode is set, all sounds based on event combinations, sounds based on vehicle information, etc. are executed. For example, by setting the all-on mode as the alarm setting and setting the sound generation frequency during the chatter setting to the chatter mode, a very lively specification with a very high sound generation frequency can be achieved.

Examples of pronunciation based on event combinations will be described with reference to FIG. 20. For example, if an event of GPS content approach due to approach to Orbis and an event of RD reception due to reception of radar waves occur at the same time, pronunciation reflecting the two events will be executed. This point is a new point that is not present in the radar detector 1 of the first embodiment, in which the RD alarm is sounded more preferentially than the GPS alarm. Specifically, the pronunciation that reflects both the GPS content approach event of "Radar warning confirmed within Orbis area! Be careful of speed" and the RD reception event is executed. In addition, if the event of GPS content approach due to approaching the mouse trap area and the event of importing specific vehicle information of 10 to 20 km/h over the speed limit occur at the same time, the message "Attention speed enforcement! Speed limit 10 km / h" will appear. The pronunciation that reflects the two events "It's over." is executed. Furthermore, if a radio reception event due to the reception of a police radio occurs in addition to these two events, three events will be reflected: ``In the speed control measurement area, speed limit is 10 km over the limit.'' Pronunciation is performed.

In addition, if a GPS content approach event due to approaching an accident-prone area and a radio reception event due to car location radio reception occur at the same time, a warning message will appear saying "There is a risk of a traffic accident in this area. Please drive carefully. The pronunciation that reflects the two events "Please." is executed. If the event of GPS content approach due to approach to a parking area and the event of importing specific vehicle information that can be assumed to be a traffic jam due to driving at 30 km/h or less for a predetermined period of time occur at the same time, ``There is a XX parking area 2 kilometers away.Are you tired from the traffic?I recommend you to take a break.'' is executed. If the event of GPS content approach due to approach to a service area with a gas station and the event of importing specific vehicle information that the remaining amount of gasoline in the tank is less than 20% occur at the same time, " "There is little gasoline left. There is a gas station 2 kilometers away in the ○○ service area. We recommend refueling." is pronounced.

The sound specifications of the Orbis countdown according to the approach to the Orbis will be explained with reference to FIG. 21. This specification differs depending on the pronunciation frequency during chatter settings. When in the quiet mode, the alarm is issued in the same manner as the conventional radar detector 1 without emitting a countdown sound every 100 m, while it is also good to emit a countdown sound every 100 m when setting the talking mode or normal mode. In particular, when setting the chat mode, count 2 in the figure is applied, in which the countdown is performed at a distance of 1000 m to 100 m. On the other hand, in the normal mode, count 1 in the figure is applied, in which the countdown starts every 100 m when the vehicle approaches 500 m. Traffic enforcement information to notify the approach to a enforcement point (a specific location such as an Orbis installation location) by voice includes the warning information that is sounded according to the alarm settings, as well as the sound that is sounded by the Orbis countdown. There is information for output.

The sound production specifications according to the RD reception level will be explained with reference to FIG. 22. As shown in FIG. 19, this sound production specification is common regardless of the sound production frequency during the chat setting (chat mode, normal mode, quiet mode). When the reception level gradually increases from Lv1 to Lv5, when the reception level reaches Lv1, Lv3, and Lv5, the message "Radar waves have been received" and "Radar wave transmission area is approaching!" will be displayed. , the pronunciation "This is a radar wave transmission area." is executed. On the other hand, when the reception level gradually weakens from Lv5 to Lv1, when the reception level reaches Lv5, Lv3, and zero level, "Radar wave transmission area." and "Leaving radar wave transmission area." !” and “Out of radar wave transmission area.” are pronounced.

Examples of pronunciation according to vehicle information will be described with reference to FIG. 23. In the figure, internal information means information acquired by internal devices such as the acceleration sensor 124 and the clock unit 126.
For example, if you are driving at low speed or idling at zero speed for a long time, and you are driving on an expressway, you may notice someone before a parking area or service area saying, ``There is a parking area 1 km away.Would you like to take a break?'' ” is performed. If the throttle opening is maintained at 80% or more for several seconds using the OBD function, a sound such as "You're putting too much load on the engine. It's not good for fuel efficiency." When the integrated value of the fuel flow rate by the OBD function reaches a preset alarm value, a sound such as "There is not enough gasoline. Please refuel." is executed. When setting a reminder, vehicle information from the OBD function is used, and when the set number of days or distance is reached, messages such as "It's time to replace the battery" or "It's time to replace the tires" will be sounded. executed.

In addition, if you execute the sound according to the information acquired internally by the radar detector such as vehicle speed, acceleration, and inclination, or the vehicle information acquired by the OBD function, changes in driving conditions, surrounding conditions, vehicle conditions, etc. can be heard from time to time. It will be possible to notify you by voice every moment. For example, in the case of the output of the acceleration sensor 124, when a preset threshold value for acceleration G, deceleration G, and lateral G exceeds a predetermined time, the value can be sounded every moment. For example, "acceleration G○○", "○○", . . . "lateral G○○", "○○", and so on. In the case of OBD output (vehicle information using the OBD function), when the output value of a set item exceeds a threshold value for a predetermined time, the output value can be sounded every moment. For example, "engine load ○○", "○○"..., "accelerator fully open", "○○", etc.

As described above, according to the radar detector of this example, which has a sound generation specification based on event combinations, when multiple events occur simultaneously while driving, it is possible to sound out appropriate information that reflects the contents of those events. . For example, when the approaching speed to the mouse trap area is 10 to 20 km/h over, the user can pronounce useful information necessary to avoid the speed limit, such as "Attention speed control! You are 10 km/h over the speed limit." For example, if you approach a service area with a gas station and the remaining amount of gasoline in the tank is less than 20%, you may receive a message saying, ``You are low on gasoline. You can pronounce useful information necessary to avoid running out of gas, such as "There is a station. We recommend refueling."

In this way, the radar detector in this example is able to provide the information the driver needs in that situation by emitting information that corresponds to a combination of multiple events that occur overlappingly. . This radar detector is a ``smart'' in-vehicle device that can provide appropriate information that reflects the individual driver's situation.
Note that the other configurations and effects are the same as in Example 1.

Although specific examples of the present invention have been described above in detail as in Examples 1 and 2, these specific examples merely disclose an example of technology included in the scope of the claims. Needless to say, the scope of the claims should not be interpreted to be limited by the configurations, numerical values, etc. of the specific examples. The scope of the claims includes techniques in which the above-mentioned specific examples are variously modified or changed using known techniques or knowledge of those skilled in the art.

1 Radar detector (vehicle system)
10 Control unit 100 Database 121 GPS receiver 122 Microwave receiver 123 Wireless receiver 124 Acceleration sensor 125 Gyro 126 Clock unit 15 Touch panel 16 Speaker 17 Memory card reader 171 Memory card 2 Case body 28 Bracket 31 Standby screen 32 Map screen 35 GPS Alarm screen 36 RD alarm screen

Claims (2)

A vehicle system having a function of outputting a warning in response to reception of a predetermined radio wave of a warning target, and a function of warning that the current position approaches the warning target,
The function of warning of the approach of the current position to the warning target is capable of setting a plurality of modes with different sounding frequencies, and has a function of issuing a warning with a sounding frequency according to the set mode,
The function of outputting an alarm in response to reception of a predetermined radio wave to be alerted includes an alarm when the reception level of the predetermined radio wave gradually becomes stronger and an alarm when the reception level gradually weakens. Equipped with a function to set different alarms,
The alarm when the received level of the predetermined radio wave gradually becomes stronger and the alarm when the received level gradually becomes weaker are the same as those when the received level of the predetermined radio waves gradually becomes weaker, regardless of the setting of the plurality of modes with different sounding frequencies. A vehicle system characterized by a common warning between modes. A program for causing a computer to implement the functions of the vehicle system according to claim 1.

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