JP2018099924A - Information providing device for vehicle - Google Patents

Abstract

A vehicle information providing apparatus capable of easily displaying information necessary for a user and improving a human-machine interface is provided.
In a situation in which a first display mode M1 is displayed on a first display unit 204, a first control unit outputs a first call output from an operation unit operable by a user. When a signal (operation instruction signal) is received, visible information (for example, time information) that is state information hidden in the background of the first display unit 204 is called, and the time display unit 410 performs the first display for a predetermined time. Control for causing the first display unit 204 to perform display operation so as to be displayed on the unit 204 is performed.
[Selection] Figure 7

Description

  The present invention relates to a vehicle information providing apparatus that provides various types of information to a vehicle user.

  As an in-vehicle information system, for example, a configuration in which a portable information device (external device) and an in-vehicle multimedia computer with a liquid crystal display (vehicle information providing device) mounted on a vehicle are connected to each other and can be controlled with each other in Patent Document 1 below Is disclosed. Thus, external device information (audio player, navigation system, Internet browser) possessed by the portable information device can be displayed to the vehicle user via a display (display unit) provided in the in-vehicle multimedia computer. It is possible.

JP 2001-22482 A

  In the in-vehicle information system described in Patent Document 1 described above, it is possible to easily use a portable information device in a vehicle, and provide a highly convenient in-vehicle information system for a vehicle user. It is. By the way, when presenting external device information possessed by a portable information device to a user of a vehicle using an existing display instead of a dedicated display, there is room for improvement regarding the display method of the external device information.

  In particular, if the existing display is a small display (display unit) for an instrument provided in a vehicle instrument (vehicle information providing device), the small display for the instrument usually includes the engine speed of the vehicle, etc. In order to display the external device information in addition to the small display for the instrument on which the vehicle state information is displayed, various information displayed on the small display for the instrument (here It is necessary to switch and display various types of information in (information including vehicle state information and external device information).

However, if various types of information displayed on the small display for an instrument are switched and displayed in this way, information necessary for a vehicle user cannot be easily displayed. Therefore, the viewpoint of a human machine interface (HMI) It was not desirable. For example, when the vehicle is a motorcycle, the place where the dedicated display is mounted is limited due to the structure of the vehicle. Therefore, an existing display (small display for an instrument) should be used without using the dedicated display. Is assumed.
Accordingly, the present invention focuses on the above-described improvements, and aims to provide a vehicle information providing apparatus that can easily display information necessary for a user and can improve a human-machine interface. To do.

  The present invention includes a display unit that displays state information including at least vehicle state information to a user, and a control unit that operates the display unit, and information for a vehicle that is connected to an external device via a connection unit. In the providing apparatus, the vehicle information providing apparatus is capable of acquiring external device information output from the external device, and the control means displays a state information display mode for displaying the state information on the display unit, and One of the display modes of the mixed display mode for displaying the status information and the external device information on the display unit, and the external device information display mode for displaying the external device information on the display unit. In a situation where one of the display modes is displayed on the display unit, the control means performs a process of switching between one display mode and another display mode. Upon receiving an operation instruction signal output from an operation means operable by the user, visible information that is at least one of the state information and the external device information hidden in the background of the display unit is displayed. The display unit is operated so that the visible information is displayed on the display unit for a predetermined time.

  In the invention, it is preferable that the control unit operates the display unit so that the display unit displays information that can be grasped by the user in a short time as the visible information.

  In the invention, it is preferable that the control unit operates the display unit so that the external device information in operation is displayed on the display unit as the visible information.

  According to the present invention, the operation means is a manual call switch for calling the visible information.

  INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY The present invention can provide a vehicle information providing apparatus that can easily display information necessary for a user and can improve a human machine interface.

The block diagram which shows the connection state of the communication system for vehicles by 1st Embodiment of this invention, and various electrical components. The block diagram of the information provision apparatus for vehicles by the 1st embodiment. The block diagram of the external apparatus by the 1st embodiment. The block diagram of the gateway means by the said 1st Embodiment. The front view of the information provision apparatus for vehicles by the 1st embodiment. (A) is a figure which shows the information displayed on a display part at the time of execution of the 1st display mode by the 1st embodiment, (b) is displayed at the time of execution of the 2nd display mode by the same 1st embodiment. It is a figure which shows the information displayed on a part, (c) is a figure which shows the information displayed on a display part at the time of execution of the 3rd display mode by the 1st Embodiment. (A) is a figure which shows the information displayed on a display part at the time of execution of 1st display mode by the 1st embodiment, (b) is at the time of execution of 1st display mode by the 1st embodiment. It is a figure which shows the information displayed on the display part when the operation means is operated. The determination figure which shows whether the various information displayed on a display part is information required for a user at the time of execution of the 1st-3rd display mode by the said 1st Embodiment. (A) is a figure which shows the information displayed on a display part at the time of execution of the 3rd display mode by the 1st embodiment, (b) is at the time of execution of the 3rd display mode by the 1st embodiment. It is a figure which shows the information displayed on a display part when an operation means is operated. (A) is a figure which shows the information displayed on a display part at the time of execution of 1st display mode by 2nd Embodiment of this invention, (b) is execution of 4th display mode by the 2nd embodiment. It is a figure which shows the information displayed on a display part sometimes, (c) is a figure which shows the information displayed on a display part at the time of execution of the 3rd display mode by the 2nd Embodiment. The determination figure which shows whether the various information displayed on a display part is information required for a user at the time of execution of the 1st, 3rd, 4th display mode by the said 2nd Embodiment. (A) is a figure which shows the information displayed on a display part at the time of execution of the 4th display mode by the 2nd embodiment, (b) is at the time of execution of the 4th display mode by the 2nd embodiment. It is a figure which shows the information displayed on the display part when the operation means is operated.

(First Embodiment) The first embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to FIGS.

  FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 1, reference numeral 100 denotes a vehicle. Reference numeral 101 denotes a vehicular communication system. The vehicular communication system 101 includes a vehicular information providing device (here, a vehicular instrument) 102 and an external device (here, a smart phone) 103 that is a portable information device. And gateway (G / W) means 104 which is a relay device for relaying data transmission / reception between the vehicle information providing apparatus 102 and the external device 103, and connection means 105 for connecting the gateway means 104 and the external device 103 It consists of.

  Reference numeral 106 denotes an in-vehicle LAN that connects the gateway unit 104 and the vehicle information providing apparatus 102, and electrical components such as an audio 107, an air conditioner 108, a body control unit 109, and an engine control unit 110 are connected to the in-vehicle LAN 106. ing. The external device 103 connected to the vehicle information providing apparatus 102 via the connection means 105 (specifically, the gateway means 104, the connection means 105, and the in-vehicle LAN 106) is connected to the Internet via the communication means 120. Is also possible.

  Next, the configuration of the vehicle communication system 101 mainly including the vehicle information providing apparatus 102, the external device 103, and the gateway unit 104 will be described in detail with reference to FIGS.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the vehicle information providing apparatus 102 includes a vehicle information terminal (vehicle information means) 210 for inputting / outputting various information (state signals) relating to various states of the vehicle and a first multiplex communication input / output terminal (first 1 multiplex communication input / output means) 211, an operation information terminal 212 through which an operation instruction signal from the operation means 213 can be inputted, a first vehicle interface (first vehicle I / F) means 201, and vehicle information A first control unit (control unit) 202 configured by, for example, a microcomputer for controlling the providing device 102, and a first memory configured by a nonvolatile memory such as a flash memory or an EEPROM in which a processing program of the first control unit 202 is stored. Storage means (storage means) 203 and a liquid crystal display panel, an organic EL panel or the like such as a liquid crystal display panel for visually informing a vehicle user of various information (various states of the vehicle). A first informing means 206 comprising a display unit (display unit) 204 and a first sounding body 205 such as a speaker for aurally informing a vehicle user of various information (various states of the vehicle); External device information to be described later, which is output from the external device 103, has a first drive unit 208 that also serves as drive control for the display unit 204, the first sounding body 205, and various analog (pointer type) meters 207. Can be obtained.

  Here, when the vehicle is a motorcycle, the first sounding body 205 may be a helmet speaker housed in a helmet worn by a passenger (user) who rides on the motorcycle. Various analog type instruments 207, although not shown in detail, have a speedometer that indicates the vehicle speed in analog, a tachometer that indicates the engine speed of the vehicle in analog, and a fuel gauge that analogly indicates the fuel amount in the tank. And at least one of a thermometer for analog display of the temperature of the engine coolant.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the external device 103 includes a first communication unit (herein referred to as Bluetooth (registered trademark)) 260 as wireless communication means constituting the connection means 105 for connecting to the gateway means 104, Processing of a sensor (herein referred to as a GPS module) 261, an interface (I / F) means 251, a second control means 252 comprising, for example, a microcomputer for controlling the external device 103, and a process of the second control means 252 Second storage means 253 comprising a non-volatile memory such as a flash memory or EEPROM in which a program is stored, and a second display such as a touch panel display for visually informing various information (various vehicle conditions) to the vehicle user. Display unit 254 and a speaker for audibly informing the vehicle user of various information (various states of the vehicle) For connecting to the Internet, second informing means 256 composed of the second sounding body 255, second driving means 257 that also serves as drive control for the second display portion 254 and the second sounding body 255, and so on. And a communication module 258 constituting the communication means 120.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the gateway unit 104 includes a second communication unit (herein referred to as Bluetooth (registered trademark)) 310 as a wireless communication unit constituting the connection unit 105 for connecting to the external device 103, 2 multiplex communication input / output terminals (second multiplex communication input / output means) 311, second vehicle interface (vehicle I / F) means 301, and control means 302 comprising a microcomputer for controlling the gateway means 104. And a storage unit 303 formed of a non-volatile memory such as a flash memory or an EEPROM in which a processing program of the control unit 302 is stored.

  Here, the second communication unit 310 of the gateway unit 104 performs wireless communication with the first communication unit 260 of the external device 103. That is, the second communication unit 310 can exchange data with the first communication unit 260, and this data can be transmitted to the vehicle information providing apparatus 102 via the in-vehicle LAN 106. .

  In the present embodiment, the first and second communication units 260 and 310 including the wireless communication unit are applied to the connection unit 105 of the external device 103 and the gateway unit 104. However, the present invention is not limited to this. It is also possible to connect the external device 103 and the gateway unit 104 using the connection unit 105 including a wired connection unit such as (universal serial bus).

  In the present embodiment, the second communication unit 310 is provided in the gateway unit 104. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and for example, by providing the second communication unit in the vehicle information providing apparatus 102. The vehicular information providing apparatus 102 may be directly connected to the external device 103 via the connecting means 105 in a configuration in which the gateway means 104 is omitted.

  Next, display contents displayed on the first display unit 204 under the control of the first control unit 202 will be described with reference to FIGS.

  FIG. 5 shows a front view of the vehicular information providing apparatus 102 having a substantially circular front view. In FIG. 5, the speedometer is arranged in the upper region when the vehicular information providing apparatus 102 is divided into two equal parts. In FIG. 5, a first display unit 204 is provided in a lower region when the vehicle information providing apparatus 102 is divided into two equal parts. An operation means 213 is provided on the left side of the first display unit 204. In this case, the 1st display part 204 can apply the display for instruments which consists of a comparatively small liquid crystal display panel which displays the status information which contains at least vehicle status information with respect to a user.

  The operation unit 213 includes a manual call switch for calling up visible information, which will be described later, based on a user's pressing operation, and an operation instruction signal output from the operation unit 213 when the user operates the operation unit 213. Is input to the first control unit 202 through the operation information terminal 212 and the first vehicle interface unit 201, and further reaches the external device 103 side through the gateway unit 104 and the connection unit 105.

  The first control means 202 receives the vehicle state signal via the first multiplex communication input / output terminal 211 (or vehicle information terminal 210), and based on the vehicle state signal, as shown in FIG. 6 (a). In order to display information corresponding to the first display mode (state information display mode) M1 on the first display unit 204, the first display unit 204 is controlled to perform display operation.

  In the first display mode M1 in which only the state information including the vehicle state information is displayed on the first display unit 204 without displaying any external device information to be described later, the first control unit 202 uses the vehicle as the state information. The first display unit 204 is operated to display the bar graph display unit 400 that displays the engine speed in a bar graph and the clock display unit 410 that displays the current time information on the first display unit 204. Take control.

  In the first display mode M1, the first display unit 204 includes a first display region R1 and a second display region R2 that are divided into upper and lower parts. The first display region R1 is located above the first display unit 204 and displays the bar graph display unit 400 among the state information. On the other hand, the second display region R2 is located below the first display unit 204, and displays the clock display unit 410 of the state information. The time information is obtained using a real-time clock function in the first control means 202.

  Further, the state information here is not limited to engine speed information and time information, but may be vehicle speed information, remaining fuel information, fuel consumption information, shift position information, outside air temperature information, etc. The information displayed in R1 and the information displayed in the second display area R2 may be different types of information.

  Next, the display content displayed on the first display unit 204 when the first control unit 202 executes a second display mode (mixed display mode) M2 different from the first display mode M1. Will be described.

  Here, when the first display mode M1 is executed, the first display mode switching for the user to switch the display mode from the first display mode M1 to the second display mode M2 using the operation means 213. When the operation is performed, the first control unit 202 receives the first display mode switching signal based on the first display mode switching operation via the operation information terminal 212 and the first vehicle interface unit 201, and Display switching processing for switching display information displayed on one display unit 204 from the first display mode M1 to the second display mode M2 is executed.

  That is, at this time, at the time of execution of the second display mode M2, the first control unit 202 simultaneously receives the status signal via the first multiplex communication input / output terminal 211 (or the vehicle information terminal 210), External device information (in this case, music information) is received from the external device 103 side via the first communication unit 260 and the second communication unit 310, and based on these status signals and music information, as shown in FIG. In order to display on the first display unit 204 display information corresponding to the second display mode M2 as shown, control is performed to display the first display unit 204.

  This music information is based on the user's favorite music information (external device information) acquired via the Internet. More specifically, the first control unit 202 operates the operation instruction signal (output from the operation unit 213 when the user turns on the operation unit 213 (for example, an audio switch provided in the operation unit 213) in advance). In other words, an audio activation signal) is received.

  Then, the first control unit 202 transmits this audio operation signal to the second control unit 252 via the in-vehicle LAN 106, the second communication unit 310, and the first communication unit 260. When the second control means 252 receives this audio operation signal, it is assumed that the user's favorite music information is acquired via the Internet. The music information is transmitted to the first control unit 202 via the first communication unit 260, the second communication unit 310, and the in-vehicle LAN 106.

  In other words, the first control unit 202 performs the first display mode M1 in the first display mode M1 based on the music information from the second control unit 252 provided in the external device 103 in the second display mode M2. Control is performed to display the first display unit 204 so that a music information display unit (external device information) 420 is displayed instead of the bar graph display unit 400 displayed in the display region R1.

  Therefore, when the second display mode M2 is executed, the first display unit 204 displays the vehicle state information and the music information (external device information) in a mixed manner. The music information display section (external device information) 420 is displayed in the display area R1, and the clock display section 410 is displayed in the second display area R2 of the first display section 204 as in the first display mode M1. Is displayed. The external device information displayed in the first display area R1 may be mail incoming information, telephone incoming information, or the like in addition to the music information display unit 420.

  Here, the music information display unit 420 includes an artist name display 421 and a song name display 422, for example. At this time, of the music information received by the first control means 202, auditory information (for example, the artist's singing voice) is sounded from the first sounding body 205.

  Next, when the first control unit 202 executes the third display mode (external device information display mode) M3 which is a display mode different from the second display mode M2 (or the first display mode M1). Next, display contents displayed on the first display unit 204 will be described.

  For example, when the second display mode M2 is executed, the user performs a second display mode switching operation for switching the display mode from the second display mode M2 to the third display mode M3 using the operation unit 213. Then, the first control unit 202 receives a second display mode switching signal based on the second display mode switching operation via the operation information terminal 212 and the first vehicle interface unit 201, and A display switching process for switching the display information displayed on the display unit 204 from the second display mode M2 to the third display mode M3 is executed.

  In this example, display switching from the second display mode M2 to the third display mode M3 is taken as an example. However, for example, when the first display mode M1 is executed, the user operates the operation unit 213. When the third display mode switching operation for switching the display mode from the first display mode M1 to the third display mode M3 is detected, the first display is controlled under the control of the first control means 202. Needless to say, the display information displayed on the unit 204 is switched from the first display mode M1 to the third display mode M3.

  That is, according to the present embodiment, the first control unit 202 displays the first display mode M1 for displaying the state information on the first display unit 204, the state information and the external device information on the first display unit. Any one display mode and any one of the second display mode M2 displayed on the screen 204 and the third display mode M3 on which the external device information is displayed on the first display unit 204 A process of switching between different display modes is executed.

  When the third display mode M3 is executed, the first control unit 202 receives information (herein, navigation information) related to the external device via the first communication unit 260 and the second communication unit 310. Then, based on this navigation information, the first display unit 204 is operated to display the display information corresponding to the third display mode M3 as shown in FIG. 6C on the first display unit 204. Take control.

  That is, in the third display mode M3, the second control means 252 provided in the external device 103 provides navigation information (routes) to the first control means 202 via the connection means 105 (each communication unit 260, 310). Guidance information), and the first control means 202 is a navigation display unit comprising a turn-by-turn display in the entire display area of the first display unit 204 that has been released from the segmented display using the display areas R1 and R2. Control is performed to display the first display unit 204 so that (external device information) 430 is displayed.

  The turn-by-turn display includes an arrow display 431, an intersection name display 432, and a remaining distance display 433 up to the intersection as shown in FIG. When the turn-by-turn display is performed as the external device information, the second control unit 252 instead of outputting the image information to the vehicle information providing apparatus 102 side via the connection unit 105 (each communication unit 260, 310). A command may be output to For example, a plurality of types of turn-by-turn display information are stored in the first storage unit 203 in advance, and the first control unit 202 stores the turn-by-turn display information corresponding to the command from the first storage unit 203. This can be dealt with by reading and displaying on the first display unit 204.

  Thereby, it is possible to reduce the amount of information output from the second control means 252 to the vehicle information providing apparatus 102 side via the connection means 105 (respective communication units 260 and 310). Further, the navigation display unit 430 as the route guidance display unit may apply a map display instead of the turn-by-turn display. At this time, the second control unit 252 outputs the image information via the connection unit 105 (each communication unit 260, 310).

  When the third display mode M3 is executed, the music information display unit 420 displayed in the first display area R1 in the second display mode M2 and the second display mode M2 are displayed. The display of the timepiece display unit 410 displayed in the second display region R2 is suppressed (becomes invisible), but is hidden in the background of the first display unit 204. That is, at this time, the first control unit 202 continues to execute the clock information calculation process and the music information reception process, and continues to calculate the time information by the real-time clock and the music information from the second control unit 252. And receiving.

  Next, using FIG. 7 and FIG. 8, when the user operates the operation means 213 during the execution of the first display mode M1 and calls various necessary information, it is displayed on the first display unit 204. The display contents will be described. In addition, the display content of the 1st display part 204 shown to Fig.7 (a) shall be the same as the 1st display mode M1 mentioned above.

  First, at this time, display information corresponding to the first display mode M1 is displayed on the first display unit 204 under the control of the first control unit 202. When the user performs a calling operation using the operation unit 213 under the situation where the first display mode M1 is displayed on the first display unit 204 as described above, the first control unit 202 is operated. Receives the first call signal (operation instruction signal) output from the operation means 213 that can be operated by the user via the operation information terminal 212, and calls various necessary information to the first display unit 204. Display control.

  Note that the first control unit 202 determines whether the information is required by the user based on the determination table shown in FIG. Here, since the first display mode M1 is being executed, the first control unit 202 refers to the determination information A1 shown in FIG.

  Then, the first control unit 202 is a content that displays the bar graph display unit 400 and the clock display unit 410 on the first display unit 204 during the execution of the first display mode M1, and is out of scope. It is determined that In addition, the first control unit 202 is a content that the music information display unit 420 is not displayed on the first display unit 204 during the execution of the first display mode M1, and the user can visually recognize in a short time. It is possible information, and it is determined that the music information is in operation (music is being played back) and can be called. Further, the first control unit 202 is a content that the navigation display unit 430 is not displayed on the first display unit 204 during the execution of the first display mode M1, and the navigation information is in operation. Since the information is not visible to the user in a short time, it is determined that the information is not to be called.

  As a result, the first control unit 202 is the information that the music information display unit 420 should call (that is, among various types of information) in a situation where the first display mode M1 is displayed on the first display unit 204. It is determined that the information is necessary for the user, and the visible information (here, the visible information is music information) which is external device information hidden in the background of the bar graph display unit 400 (first display unit 204). The visual information (that is, the music information display unit 420) is displayed for a predetermined time (the predetermined time corresponds to a time that the user can visually recognize), and the first display region R1 (first The display operation of the first display unit 204 is performed so as to be displayed on the display unit 204) (see FIG. 7B).

  That is, at this time, the first control unit 202 uses the external device information in operation (for example, the music information display unit 420 indicating the music information being played back) as the visible information as the first display region R1 (first display unit). 204) is controlled to perform display operation of the first display unit 204 in order to display (interrupt display).

  Then, when the predetermined time has elapsed, the first control means 202 automatically changes the display content of the first display unit 204 from the state of FIG. 7B to the first display mode M1 of FIG. The display operation of the first display unit 204 is performed so as to return to.

  Note that, in the first display mode M1 after returning to the state of FIG. 7A, the display of the music information display unit 420 displayed in the first display region R1 for the predetermined time is suppressed. However, it is assumed that it is hidden in the background of the first display unit 204. That is, the first control unit 202 continues to receive music information from the second control unit 252.

  Next, display contents displayed on the first display unit 204 when the user operates the operation unit 213 and calls various necessary information during execution of the second display mode M2 will be described.

  First, at this time, display information corresponding to the second display mode M2 is displayed on the first display unit 204 under the control of the first control unit 202. When the user performs a calling operation using the operation unit 213 under the situation in which the second display mode M2 is displayed on the first display unit 204 as described above, the first control unit 202 is operated. Receives the second call signal (operation instruction signal) output from the operation means 213 that can be operated by the user via the operation information terminal 212, and calls various necessary information to the first display unit 204. Display control.

  Note that the first control unit 202 determines whether the information is required by the user based on the determination table shown in FIG. Here, since the second display mode M2 is being executed, the first control unit 202 refers to the determination information A2 shown in FIG.

  And the 1st control means 202 is the content which has not displayed the bar graph display part 400 on the 1st display part 204 during execution of 2nd display mode M2, and the engine of a vehicle is operating. Even if the user visually recognizes the object in a short time, it is determined that the information is not to be called because useful information cannot be obtained. Further, the first control unit 202 is a content that displays the clock display unit 410 and the music information display unit 420 on the first display unit 204 during the execution of the second display mode M2, and is out of scope. Judge that there is. Furthermore, the first control means 202 is the content that the navigation display unit 430 is not displayed on the first display unit 204 during the execution of the second display mode M2, and the navigation information is in operation. Since the information is not visible to the user in a short time, it is determined that the information is not to be called.

  As a result, the first control unit 202 can call the information to be called (that is, information necessary for the user among various types of information) in a situation where the second display mode M2 is displayed on the first display unit 204. ) Is determined to be absent, and display control of the first display unit 204 is performed so that the second display mode M2 shown in FIG. 6B is continuously displayed.

  Next, with reference to FIGS. 8 and 9, when the user operates the operation unit 213 and calls various necessary information during execution of the third display mode M <b> 3, it is displayed on the first display unit 204. The display contents will be described. Note that the display content of the first display unit 204 illustrated in FIG. 9A is the same as that of the third display mode M3 described above.

  First, at this time, display information corresponding to the third display mode M3 is displayed on the first display unit 204 under the control of the first control unit 202. When the user performs a calling operation using the operation unit 213 under the situation where the third display mode M3 is displayed on the first display unit 204 as described above, the first control unit 202 is operated. Receives the third call signal (operation instruction signal) output from the operation means 213 that can be operated by the user via the operation information terminal 212 and calls various necessary information to the first display unit 204. Display control.

  Note that the first control unit 202 determines whether the information is required by the user based on the determination table shown in FIG. Here, since the third display mode M3 is being executed, the first control unit 202 refers to the determination information A3 shown in FIG.

  The first control means 202 is a content that the bar graph display unit 400 is not displayed on the first display unit 204 during the execution of the third display mode M3, and the vehicle engine is operating. Even if the user visually recognizes the object in a short time, it is determined that the information is not to be called because useful information cannot be obtained. Further, the first control unit 202 is a content that the clock display unit 410 is not displayed on the first display unit 204 during the execution of the third display mode M3, and is visible to the user in a short time. It is determined that the information is (contents can be grasped) and the time information is in operation and can be called.

  Further, the first control unit 202 is a content that the music information display unit 420 is not displayed on the first display unit 204 during the execution of the third display mode M3, and the user can visually recognize in a short time. It is possible information, and it is determined that the music information is in operation (music is being played back) and can be called. Furthermore, the first control unit 202 determines that the navigation display unit 430 is the content displayed on the first display unit 204 during the execution of the third display mode M3 and is out of the target.

  As a result, in the situation where the third display mode M3 is displayed on the first display unit 204, information that the clock display unit 410 and the music information display unit 420 should call (that is, the user among the various types of information) Necessary information), state information hidden in the background of the clock display unit 410 and the music information display unit 420 (that is, the first display unit 204) and visible information (external device information here) Visible information corresponds to time information and music information) so that the visible information (that is, the clock display unit 410 and the music information display unit 420) is displayed on the first display unit 204 for the predetermined time. The first display unit 204 is operated to display (see FIG. 9B).

  That is, at this time, the first control unit 202 displays (interruption display) information (such as the clock display unit 410) that can be grasped by the user in a short time on the first display unit 204 as visible information, and In order to display external device information (for example, music information display unit 420) in operation as visible information on the first display unit 204 (interrupt display), control is performed to display the first display unit 204.

  Then, when the predetermined time has elapsed, the first control means 202 automatically changes the display content of the first display unit 204 from the state of FIG. 9B to the third display mode M3 of FIG. 9A. Display control of the first display unit 204 is performed so as to return to.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, when the first display mode M1 is displayed on the first display unit 204, the first control unit 202 receives the first call signal. The visible information (for example, music information) which is the external device information hidden in the background of the first display unit 204 is called up, and the music information display unit 420 performs the first display area R1 (first display) for the predetermined time. The first display unit 204 is controlled to be displayed so as to be displayed on the display unit 204).

  Further, when the third display mode M3 is displayed on the first display unit 204, the first control unit 202 receives the second call signal, and then the first display unit 204 By calling state information hidden in the background and visible information (for example, time information and music information) that is external device information, the clock display unit 410 and the music information display unit 420 are displayed on the first display unit 204 for the predetermined time. Control to operate the display unit so as to be displayed is performed.

  Accordingly, when a relatively small instrument display is used as the first display unit 204, information necessary for the user can be displayed simply by operating the operation means 213 by the user. A vehicle information providing apparatus capable of improving the machine interface can be provided.

  Further, in the present embodiment, the first control unit 202 is configured to display information (for example, the clock display unit 410) that allows the user to grasp the contents in a short time on the first display unit 204 as visible information. By performing control to display the display unit 204, the user can instantly view information necessary for the user by operating the operation means 213 even when the vehicle is in operation. , Human machine interface can be improved.

  Further, in the present embodiment, the first control unit 202 displays the first display unit 204 in order to display the operating external device information (for example, music information being played back) on the first display unit 204 as visible information. By controlling the display operation, it is possible to present useful information for the user, and the human machine interface can be improved.

(Second Embodiment) Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 10 to 12. The same reference numerals are used for the same or corresponding parts as in the first embodiment, and the details thereof are used. The detailed explanation is omitted. Hereinafter, in the second embodiment, the display contents displayed on the first display unit 204 under the control of the first control unit 202 will be described.

  The first control means 202 receives the state signal via the first multiplex communication input / output terminal 211 (or the vehicle information terminal 210), and based on the state signal, the first control unit 202 as shown in FIG. In order to display the vehicle state information corresponding to the first display mode M1 on the first display unit 204, the first display unit 204 is controlled to display.

  At this time, as in the first embodiment, the bar graph display unit 400 is displayed in the first display region R1 of the first display unit 204, and the second display region R2 of the first display unit 204 is displayed. The clock display unit 410 (displaying the current time information) is displayed. Note that the time information is obtained using a real-time clock function in the first control unit 202.

  Next, when the first control unit 202 executes a fourth display mode (another external device information display mode) M4 which is a display mode different from the first display mode M1, the first display unit The display contents displayed on 204 will be described. The other external device information display mode corresponds to the external device information display mode described in claim 1 described later.

  For example, when the first display mode M1 is executed, the user performs a fourth display mode switching operation for switching the display mode from the first display mode M1 to the fourth display mode M4 using the operation unit 213. Then, the first control unit 202 receives a fourth display mode switching signal based on the fourth display mode switching operation via the operation information terminal 212 and the first vehicle interface unit 201, and A display switching process for switching display information displayed on the display unit 204 from the first display mode M1 to the fourth display mode M4 is executed.

  When the fourth display mode M4 is executed, the first control unit 202 receives information (here, music information) related to the external device via the first communication unit 260 and the second communication unit 310. Based on this music information, the display information corresponding to the fourth display mode M4 as shown in FIG. 10B (that is, the music information display unit 420 employed in the first embodiment) is displayed on the first display. In order to display on the unit 204, control is performed to display the first display unit 204.

  Note that, when the fourth display mode M4 is executed, the display of the clock display unit 410 displayed in the second display region R2 in the first display mode M1 is suppressed, but the first display It is assumed that it is hidden in the background of the unit 204. In other words, at this time, the first control unit 202 continues to calculate time information using a real-time clock.

  Next, when the first control unit 202 executes the third display mode M3, which is a display mode different from the fourth display mode M4 (or the first display mode M1), the first display unit The display contents displayed on 204 will be described.

  For example, when the fourth display mode M4 is executed, the user performs a fifth display mode switching operation for switching the display mode from the fourth display mode M4 to the third display mode M3 using the operation unit 213. Then, the first control unit 202 receives a fifth display mode switching signal based on the fifth display mode switching operation via the operation information terminal 212 and the first vehicle interface unit 201, and A display switching process for switching the display information displayed on the display unit 204 from the fourth display mode M4 to the third display mode M3 is executed.

  In the second embodiment, display switching from the fourth display mode M4 to the third display mode M3 is taken as an example. However, for example, when the first display mode M1 is executed, the user operates When the third display mode switching operation for switching the display mode from the first display mode M1 to the third display mode M3 is performed using the means 213, under the control of the first control means 202, Needless to say, the display information displayed on the first display unit 204 is switched from the first display mode M1 to the third display mode M3.

  That is, according to the second embodiment, the first control unit 202 displays the first display mode M1 for displaying the state information on the first display unit 204 and the music information that is one of the external device information. Any one of the fourth display mode M4 displayed on the first display unit 204 and the third display mode M3 displayed on the first display unit 204 as navigation information which is one of the external device information. A process of switching between the display mode and another display mode different from any one of the display modes is executed.

  When the third display mode M3 is executed, the first control unit 202 receives the navigation information via the first communication unit 260 and the second communication unit 310, and based on this navigation information, FIG. In order to display the display information corresponding to the third display mode M3 as shown in (c) (that is, the navigation display unit 430 employed in the first embodiment) on the first display unit 204, the first display is performed. Control to display the unit 204 is performed.

  When the third display mode M3 is executed, the music information display unit 420 displayed on the first display unit 204 in the fourth display mode M4 and the first display mode M1 are displayed. In addition, the display of the clock display unit 410 displayed in the second display region R2 is suppressed, but is hidden in the background of the first display unit 204. That is, at this time, the first control unit 202 continues to calculate time information using the real-time clock and receive music information from the second control unit 252.

  Next, referring to FIGS. 7, 10, and 11, when the user operates the operation unit 213 during the execution of the first display mode M <b> 1 and calls various necessary information, the first display unit 204 is displayed. The displayed content will be described. In addition, the display content of the 1st display part 204 shown to Fig.10 (a) shall be the same as 1st display mode M1 (for example, Fig.7 (a)) mentioned above.

  First, at this time, display information corresponding to the first display mode M1 is displayed on the first display unit 204 under the control of the first control unit 202 as shown in FIG. When the user performs a calling operation using the operation unit 213 under the situation where the first display mode M1 is displayed on the first display unit 204 as described above, the first control unit 202 is operated. Receives the fourth call signal (operation instruction signal) output from the operation means 213 that can be operated by the user via the operation information terminal 212, and calls various necessary information to the first display unit 204. Display control.

  Note that the first control unit 202 determines whether or not the information is required by the user based on the determination table shown in FIG. Here, since the first display mode M1 is being executed, the first control unit 202 refers to the determination information A1 shown in FIG.

  Then, the first control means 202 is the content that the bar graph display unit 400 and the clock display unit 410 are displayed on the first display unit 204 during the execution of the first display mode M1, and is out of scope. It is determined that In addition, the first control unit 202 is a content that the music information display unit 420 is not displayed on the first display unit 204 during the execution of the first display mode M1, and the user can visually recognize in a short time. It is possible information, and it is determined that the music information is in operation (music is being played back) and can be called. Further, the first control unit 202 is a content that the navigation display unit 430 is not displayed on the first display unit 204 during the execution of the first display mode M1, and the navigation information is in operation. Since the information is not visible to the user in a short time, it is determined that the information is not to be called.

  As a result, the first control unit 202 determines that the music information display unit 420 should be called under the situation where the first display mode M1 is displayed on the first display unit 204, Visible information related to external device information hidden in the background of the bar graph display unit 400 (first display unit 204) is called (the visible information here corresponds to music information) to execute the first implementation. Similarly to the form, the first display unit 204 is caused to display so that the visible information (that is, the music information display unit 420) is displayed in the first display region R1 (first display unit 204) for the predetermined time. (Refer FIG.7 (b)).

  Then, when the predetermined time has elapsed, the first control means 202 automatically changes the display content of the first display unit 204 from the state of FIG. 7B to the first display mode M1 of FIG. The display operation of the first display unit 204 is performed so as to return to.

  Note that, in the first display mode M1 after returning to the state of FIG. 7A, the display of the music information display unit 420 displayed in the first display region R1 for the predetermined time is suppressed. However, it is assumed that it is hidden in the background of the first display unit 204. That is, the first control unit 202 continues to receive music information from the second control unit 252.

  Next, using FIG. 11 and FIG. 12, when the user operates the operating means 213 and calls various necessary information during execution of the fourth display mode M4, it is displayed on the first display unit 204. The display contents will be described. In addition, the display content of the 1st display part 204 shown to Fig.12 (a) shall be the same as the 4th display mode M4 mentioned above.

  First, at this time, display information corresponding to the fourth display mode M4 is displayed on the first display unit 204 under the control of the first control unit 202 as shown in FIG. When the user performs a calling operation using the operation unit 213 under the situation where the fourth display mode M4 is displayed on the first display unit 204 as described above, the first control unit 202 is operated. Receives the fifth call signal (operation instruction signal) output from the operation means 213 that can be operated by the user via the operation information terminal 212, and calls various necessary information to the first display unit 204. Display control.

  Note that the first control unit 202 determines whether or not the information is required by the user based on the determination table shown in FIG. Here, since the fourth display mode M4 is being executed, the first control unit 202 refers to the determination information A4 shown in FIG.

  And the 1st control means 202 is the content which has not displayed the bar graph display part 400 on the 1st display part 204 during execution of 4th display mode M4, and the engine of a vehicle is operating. Even if the user visually recognizes the object in a short time, it is determined that the information is not to be called because useful information cannot be obtained. Further, the first control unit 202 is a content that the clock display unit 410 is not displayed on the first display unit 204 during the execution of the third display mode M3, and is visible to the user in a short time. It is determined that the time information is active and can be called.

  Further, the first control unit 202 determines that the music information display unit 420 is the content displayed on the first display unit 204 during execution of the fourth display mode M4 and is out of the target. Further, the first control means 202 is the content that the navigation display unit 430 is not displayed on the first display unit 204 during the execution of the fourth display mode M4, and the navigation information is in operation. Since the information is not visible to the user in a short time, it is determined that the information is not to be called.

  As a result, in a situation where the fourth display mode M4 is displayed on the first display unit 204, it is determined that the information is to be called by the clock display unit 410, and the music information display unit 420 (that is, the first display mode 420). Visible information that is state information hidden in the background of the display unit 204) is called (visible information here corresponds to time information), and the visible information (that is, the clock display unit 410) is the predetermined time, The first display unit 204 is caused to display so as to be displayed on the first display unit 204 (see FIG. 12B).

  Then, when the predetermined time has elapsed, the first control means 202 automatically changes the display content of the first display unit 204 from the state of FIG. 12B to the fourth display mode M4 of FIG. Display control of the first display unit 204 is performed so as to return to.

  Next, using FIG. 8, FIG. 10, and FIG. 11, when the user operates the operating means 213 during the execution of the third display mode M3 and calls various necessary information, the first display unit 204 is displayed. The displayed content will be described. Note that the display content of the first display unit 204 illustrated in FIG. 10C is the same as that of the above-described third display mode M3 (for example, FIG. 8A).

  First, at this time, display information corresponding to the third display mode M3 is displayed on the first display unit 204 under the control of the first control unit 202 as shown in FIG. When the user performs a calling operation using the operation unit 213 under the situation where the third display mode M3 is displayed on the first display unit 204 as described above, the first control unit 202 is operated. Receives the third call signal (operation instruction signal) output from the operation means 213 that can be operated by the user via the operation information terminal 212, and sends various necessary information to the first display unit 204. Perform display control for calling.

  Note that the first control unit 202 determines whether or not the information is required by the user based on the determination table shown in FIG. Here, since the third display mode M3 is being executed, the first control unit 202 refers to the determination information A3 shown in FIG.

  The first control means 202 is a content that the bar graph display unit 400 is not displayed on the first display unit 204 during the execution of the third display mode M3, and the vehicle engine is operating. Even if the user visually recognizes the object in a short time, it is determined that the information is not to be called because useful information cannot be obtained. Further, the first control unit 202 is a content that the clock display unit 410 is not displayed on the first display unit 204 during the execution of the third display mode M3, and is visible to the user in a short time. It is determined that the time information is active and can be called.

  Further, the first control unit 202 is a content that the music information display unit 420 is not displayed on the first display unit 204 during the execution of the third display mode M3, and the user can visually recognize in a short time. It is possible information, and it is determined that the music information is in operation (music is being played back) and can be called. Furthermore, the first control unit 202 determines that the navigation display unit 430 is the content displayed on the first display unit 204 during the execution of the third display mode M3 and is out of the target.

  As a result, it is determined that the information should be called by the clock display unit 410 and the music information display unit 420 under the situation where the third display mode M3 is displayed on the first display unit 204, and the clock display unit 410 and status information hidden in the background of the music information display unit 420 (that is, the first display unit 204) and visible information that is external device information (the visible information here corresponds to time information and music information) To display the first display unit 204 so that the visible information (that is, the clock display unit 410 and the music information display unit 420) is displayed on the first display unit 204 for the predetermined time (FIG. 8). (See (b)).

  Then, when the predetermined time has elapsed, the first control means 202 automatically changes the display content of the first display unit 204 from the state of FIG. 8B to the third display mode M3 of FIG. Display control of the first display unit 204 is performed so as to return to.

  As described above, according to the second embodiment, the fourth control mode 202 displays the fifth call signal in the fourth display mode M4 under the condition displayed on the first display unit 204. When received, the visible information (for example, time information) which is the state information hidden in the background of the first display unit 204 is called, and the clock display unit 410 is displayed on the first display unit 204 for the predetermined time. In this way, the first display unit 204 is controlled to display.

  Therefore, when a relatively small instrument display is used as the first display unit 204, information necessary for the user can be displayed simply by operating the operation means 213 by the user. The same effect as the first embodiment can be obtained.

  In addition, this invention is not limited by the above-mentioned embodiment and drawing. Changes (including deletion of constituent elements) can be added to the embodiments and the drawings as appropriate without departing from the scope of the present invention.

  For example, in each of the above-described embodiments, the example in which time information is applied as information that allows the user to grasp the content in a short time has been described. However, for example, the outside air temperature information can be grasped in a short time instead of the time information. It can also be information.

  The present invention relates to a vehicular information providing apparatus connected to an external device through a connecting means, and the vehicular information providing apparatus is mounted on a vehicle as well as a vehicular meter (vehicle vehicular meter) that displays vehicle information. The present invention can also be applied to navigation devices and multi-display devices.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 101 Vehicle communication system 102 Vehicle information provision apparatus 103 External device 104 Gateway means 105 Connection means 202 First control means (control means)
204 1st display part (display part)
213 Operation unit 252 Second control unit 260 First communication unit 302 Control unit 310 Second communication unit 400 Bar graph display unit (status information)
410 Time display (status information)
420 Music information display (external device information)
430 Navigation display (external device information)
M1 first display mode (status information display mode)
M2 Second display mode (mixed display mode)
M3 Third display mode (external device information display mode)
M4 Fourth display mode (external device information display mode)
R1 first display area R2 second display area

Claims (4)

In a vehicle information providing apparatus that includes a display unit that displays state information including at least vehicle state information for a user, and a control unit that operates the display unit, and is connected to an external device via a connection unit.
The vehicle information providing device can obtain external device information output from the external device,
The control means includes a status information display mode for displaying the status information on the display unit, a mixed display mode for displaying the status information and the external device information on the display unit, and the display of the external device information. Executing a process of switching between any one display mode of the external device information display mode displayed on the unit and another display mode different from the one display mode,
Further, in a situation where any one of the display modes is displayed on the display unit, the control unit receives the operation instruction signal output from the operation unit operable by the user. And calling the visible information, which is at least one of the state information and the external device information hidden in the background, so that the visible information is displayed on the display unit for a predetermined time. An information providing apparatus for a vehicle characterized by being operated. 2. The vehicle information provision according to claim 1, wherein the control unit operates the display unit in order to display information that can be grasped by the user in a short time as the visible information on the display unit. apparatus. The vehicle information providing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit operates the display unit so that the external device information being operated is displayed on the display unit as the visible information. 2. The vehicle information providing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the operation means is a manual call switch for calling the visible information.

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