JP2019012501A - Driving support apparatus, driving support method, and driving support program - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To maintain a driver's drowsiness elimination effect. A driving support device according to an embodiment includes a first acquisition unit for acquiring first information regarding the body of a driver driving a vehicle or second information regarding the quality of sleep during sleep of the driver, and a driving unit. Based on the interval between the second acquisition unit, which acquires the degree of sleepiness of the driver while the person is driving the vehicle, and the time interval in which the degree of sleepiness acquired by the second acquisition unit becomes equal to or higher than a predetermined threshold, the driver is notified. The calculation unit that calculates the effect disappearance prediction time indicating the predicted time that the drowsiness does not disappear even if a stimulus is given, and the first information or the second information acquired by the first acquisition unit and the effect disappearance prediction time calculated by the calculation unit. It is provided with a control unit that makes the control performed on the driver different according to the above. [Selection diagram] FIG. 4

Description

  Embodiments described herein relate generally to a driving support device, a driving support method, and a driving support program.

  Conventionally, a technique for detecting the degree of sleepiness of a driver and giving a stimulus to the driver according to the detected degree of sleepiness has been proposed. And a driver | operator can be awakened by giving a stimulus with respect to a driver | operator.

JP 2010-186276 A JP 2003-317197 A

  However, in the prior art, if the application of the stimulus is repeated when drowsiness occurs, the driver's drowsiness eliminating effect tends to be weakened.

  Accordingly, one of the problems of the present invention is to provide a driving support device, a driving support method, and a driving support program that maintain the drowsiness elimination effect of the driver.

  The driving support device of the embodiment includes a first acquisition unit that acquires first information related to a driver's body driving a vehicle or second information related to a sleep quality of the driver, and the driver selects the vehicle. The driver is stimulated based on an interval between the second acquisition unit that acquires the degree of sleepiness of the driver during driving, and the time interval when the degree of sleepiness acquired by the second acquisition unit is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold. In accordance with the calculation unit that calculates the predicted loss of effect indicating the predicted time that drowsiness will not be eliminated, the first information or the second information acquired by the first acquisition unit, and the predicted loss of effect calculated by the calculation unit And a control unit that varies the control performed on the driver. The driving assistance device of the embodiment can extend the time until the control effect on the driver disappears by changing the control according to the predicted effect disappearance time. In addition, the driving support device of the embodiment makes it difficult to eliminate drowsiness due to vibration stimulation or the like by varying control according to information on the driver's body or information on the quality of sleep while the driver is sleeping. The awake state can be maintained even for the driver in the state.

  In the driving support device of the embodiment, the control performed on the driver is to apply vibration stimulation to the driver by a vibration device provided in a seat on which the driver is seated. Therefore, the driving assistance apparatus of the embodiment can maintain the driver's arousal state by vibration stimulation.

  In the driving support device of the embodiment, the first information is the degree of obesity of the driver, and the control unit determines the degree of obesity of the driver when the degree of obesity of the driver is the first degree. The predetermined threshold value is reduced or the strength of the vibration stimulus is increased as compared with the case where the second degree is smaller than one degree. Therefore, the driving assistance device of the embodiment can maintain a wakeful state even for a driver with thick subcutaneous fat.

  In the driving support device of the embodiment, the first information is information related to the age of the driver, and the control unit determines that the age of the driver is higher than the first age when the age of the driver is the first age. The predetermined threshold value is reduced or the intensity of the vibration stimulus is increased as compared with the case of a young second age. Therefore, the driving assistance device of the embodiment can maintain an awakening state even for an elderly driver.

  In the driving support device of the embodiment, when the quality of sleep while the driver is sleeping is the first level, the control unit has a better quality of sleep while the driver is sleeping than the first level. Compared with the case of a certain second level, the predetermined threshold value is reduced or the intensity of the vibration stimulus is increased. The driving support device according to the embodiment makes the control different according to the sleeping quality of the driver's sleeping, so that it is difficult to obtain the effect of eliminating drowsiness because the sleeping quality is poor. Awakened state can be maintained.

  Further, in the driving support device of the embodiment, the control unit outputs a candidate for a resting place where the vehicle can stop within the range in which the vehicle can travel within the estimated effect disappearance time calculated by the calculation unit. Since the driving assistance device of the embodiment presents a resting place corresponding to the predicted loss of effect time, the driver can improve the possibility of resting.

  In the driving support device of the embodiment, the second acquisition unit acquires the degree of sleepiness when the degree of sleepiness calculated from the captured image of the driver imaged by the imaging device is greater than a predetermined threshold. To do. The driving assistance device of the embodiment can improve the accuracy of control based on the predicted loss of effect time by calculating the predicted loss of effect according to the degree of sleepiness according to the imaging result of the driver. .

  In the driving support device of the embodiment, the second acquisition unit acquires operation information indicating that a predetermined operation unit provided in the vehicle has been operated, and the calculation unit operates the operation unit. Based on the time interval, an effect disappearance prediction time indicating a prediction time at which sleepiness is not eliminated even when the driver is stimulated is calculated. The driving support device of the embodiment can improve the accuracy of control based on the predicted effect disappearance time by calculating the predicted effect disappearance time based on the driver's own operation.

  In the driving support device of the embodiment, the control unit varies the predetermined threshold according to the predicted effect disappearance time calculated by the calculation unit. Therefore, since the threshold is set according to the degree of sleepiness of the driver, it is possible to extend the time until the effect of the processing on the driver disappears.

  In addition, the driving support method of the embodiment includes a step of acquiring first information relating to a driver's body driving a vehicle or second information relating to a sleeping quality of the driver, and the driver driving the vehicle. Based on the process of obtaining the driver's sleepiness level and the interval between the time when the sleepiness level exceeded a predetermined threshold, the predicted time when sleepiness was not eliminated even when the driver was stimulated was shown A step of calculating the predicted effect disappearance time, and a step of varying the control performed on the driver according to the first information or the second information and the predicted effect disappearance time. According to the driving support method of the embodiment, it is possible to extend the time until the control effect for the driver disappears by changing the control according to the predicted effect disappearance time. In addition, according to the driving support method of the embodiment, it is difficult to obtain the effect of eliminating drowsiness by stimulation by changing the control according to the information related to the driver's body or the information related to the quality of sleep while the driver is sleeping. The awake state can be maintained even for the driver in the state.

  In addition, the driving support program of the embodiment includes a function for acquiring, in a computer, a first information related to a driver's body driving a vehicle or a second information related to a driver's sleeping quality, Based on the function of acquiring the driver's drowsiness level while driving the vehicle and the time interval when the drowsiness level is equal to or higher than a predetermined threshold, the predicted time when the driver is stimulated and sleepiness is not eliminated And a function of varying the control performed on the driver in accordance with the first information or the second information and the effect disappearance prediction time. According to the driving support program of the embodiment, it is possible to extend the time until the control effect on the driver disappears by changing the control according to the predicted effect disappearance time. In addition, according to the driving support program of the embodiment, it is difficult to obtain the effect of eliminating drowsiness by stimulation by varying the control according to the information related to the driver's body or the information related to the sleep quality of the driver sleeping. The awake state can be maintained even for the driver in the state.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a state in which a part of a compartment of a vehicle according to the first embodiment is seen through. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the arrangement of the imaging device and the stimulation device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the driving support system according to the first embodiment. FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration of the ECU as the driving support device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a process management database according to the first embodiment. FIG. 6 is a graph showing the relationship between the subcutaneous fat thickness and the effect disappearance time obtained by the experiment of the inventors of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating the timing at which a conventional arousal stimulus is applied. FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of a break place candidate specified by the guide place specifying unit according to the first embodiment. FIG. 9 is a diagram exemplifying a timing and a support level at which an arousal stimulus is given by the ECU as the driving support device of the first embodiment. FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the operation of the ECU as the driving support apparatus of the first embodiment. FIG. 11 is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration of an ECU serving as a driving support device according to the second embodiment. FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating a process management database according to the second embodiment. FIG. 13 is a graph showing the results obtained by comparing the nerve activity values of the supplementary motor area obtained by the experiment of the inventor of the present invention between the elderly and the young when the vibration stimulus is applied. FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing the operation of the ECU as the driving support apparatus of the second embodiment. FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating an installation example of the monitoring system according to the third embodiment. FIG. 16 is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration of an ECU serving as a driving support apparatus according to the third embodiment. FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating a process management database according to the third embodiment. FIG. 18 is a graph showing the results of experiments conducted by the inventors of the present invention, in which the nerve activity values of the supplementary motor area when a vibration stimulus is applied are shown in FIG. It is the graph compared with. FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing the operation of the ECU as the driving support apparatus of the third embodiment. FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating an example of the arrangement of operation buttons according to the fourth embodiment. FIG. 21 is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration of an ECU serving as a driving support apparatus according to the fourth embodiment. FIG. 22 is a diagram illustrating a process management database according to the fourth embodiment. FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing the operation of the ECU as the driving support apparatus of the fourth embodiment.

  The following exemplary embodiments and variations include similar components. Therefore, below, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected to the same component, and the overlapping description is partially abbreviate | omitted. The parts included in the embodiments and modifications can be configured by replacing corresponding parts in the other embodiments and modifications. In addition, the configurations and positions of the parts included in the embodiments and modifications are the same as those in the other embodiments and modifications unless otherwise specified.

<First Embodiment>
In the present embodiment, the vehicle 1 may be, for example, an automobile (an internal combustion engine automobile) using an internal combustion engine (engine, not shown) as a drive source, or an electric motor (motor, not shown) as a drive source. The vehicle may be a vehicle (electric vehicle, fuel cell vehicle, etc.) or a vehicle (hybrid vehicle) using both of them as drive sources. The vehicle 1 can be mounted with various transmissions, and various devices (systems, components, etc.) necessary for driving the internal combustion engine and the electric motor. In addition, the method, number, layout, and the like of the device related to driving of the wheels 3 in the vehicle 1 can be variously set.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the vehicle body 2 of the vehicle 1 constitutes a passenger compartment 2a in which a driver (not shown) gets. A steering section 4 and the like are provided in the passenger compartment 2a so as to face the driver's seat 2b as a passenger. In the present embodiment, as an example, the steering unit 4 is a steering wheel that protrudes from a dashboard (instrument panel) 12.

  As shown in FIG. 1, in the present embodiment, as an example, the vehicle 1 is a four-wheeled vehicle (four-wheeled vehicle), and includes two left and right front wheels 3F and two right and left rear wheels 3R. All of these four wheels 3 can be configured to be steerable.

  In addition, a monitor device 11 is provided in the vehicle width direction of the dashboard 12 in the passenger compartment 2a, that is, in the center in the left-right direction. The monitor device 11 is provided with a display screen 8 and an audio output device 9. The display screen 8 is, for example, an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), an OELD (Organic Electroluminescent Display), or the like. The audio output device 9 is, for example, a speaker. The display screen 8 is covered with a transparent operation input unit 10 such as a touch panel, for example. The occupant can visually recognize the image displayed on the display screen 8 via the operation input unit 10. In addition, the occupant can execute an operation input by touching, pushing, or moving the operation input unit 10 with a finger or the like at a position corresponding to the image displayed on the display screen 8.

  As shown in FIG. 2, an imaging device 201 is installed in the handle column 202. The imaging device 201 is, for example, a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) camera or the like. The imaging device 201 is adjusted in view angle and posture so that the face of the driver 302 sitting on the seat portion of the seat 2b is positioned at the center of the field of view. The imaging device 201 sequentially captures the face of the driver 302 and sequentially outputs image data regarding images obtained by the capturing.

  Moreover, as shown in FIG. 2, the stimulating device 310a is provided in the pillow portion 2d of the seat. The stimulating device 310a outputs a wake-up stimulus for waking up the driver 302 to the driver 302 based on stimulus data described later. Here, examples of the arousal stimulus include an olfactory stimulus, an auditory stimulus, a tactile stimulus, and a visual stimulus, but are not limited thereto.

  A vibration device 310b is provided in the seat back portion 2c. The vibration device 310b vibrates the lower part of the backrest part 2c that is in contact with the waist of the driver 302 based on the stimulation data, and gives vibration stimulation to the driver 302. The stimulation device 310a and the vibration device 310b are an example of a stimulation output unit.

  In addition, arrangement | positioning of the stimulating device 310a and the vibration apparatus 310b is not limited to these, What is necessary is just to be arrange | positioned in the position which can give each irritation | stimulation to the driver | operator 302. FIG.

  Next, a driving support system having a driving support device in the vehicle 1 according to the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the driving support system 100 according to the present embodiment. As exemplified in FIG. 3, in the driving support system 100, in addition to the ECU 14, the monitor device 11, the steering system 13, the GPS 16, etc., the brake system 18, the steering angle sensor 19, the accelerator sensor 20, the shift sensor 21, the wheel speed. Sensors 22 and the like are electrically connected via an in-vehicle network 23 as an electric communication line. The in-vehicle network 23 is configured, for example, as a CAN (Controller Area Network). The ECU 14 can control the steering system 13 including the actuator 13a, the brake system 18 including the actuator 18a, and the like by sending a control signal through the in-vehicle network 23. The ECU 14 also detects the detection results of the torque sensor 13b, the brake sensor 18b, the rudder angle sensor 19, the GPS 16, the shift sensor 21, the wheel speed sensor 22 and the like, the operation signal of the operation input unit 10 and the like via the in-vehicle network 23. Can receive.

  The ECU 14 includes, for example, a CPU 14a (Central Processing Unit), a ROM 14b (Read Only Memory), a RAM 14c (Random Access Memory), a display control unit 14d, an audio control unit 14e, an SSD 14f (Solid State Drive), a flash memory, and the like. ing.

  The CPU 14a is an arithmetic device that can execute a program. The ROM 14b, the RAM 14c, and the SSD 14f are storage devices that can store programs and data. That is, the ECU 14 has a hardware configuration similar to that of a computer.

  The CPU 14a controls the entire vehicle 1. The CPU 14a can read a predetermined program installed and stored in a non-volatile storage device such as the ROM 14b, and execute arithmetic processing according to the program.

  In particular, the CPU 14a realizes the function as the driving support apparatus of the embodiment by executing the driving support program 140 installed and stored in the ROM 14b. That is, ECU14 is an example of the driving assistance device of an embodiment.

  The RAM 14c temporarily stores various types of data used in computations by the CPU 14a. In addition, the display control unit 14d performs, for example, composition of image data displayed on the display screen 8 in the arithmetic processing in the ECU 14. In addition, the voice control unit 14 e mainly executes processing of voice data output from the voice output device 9 among the calculation processes in the ECU 14. The SSD 14f is a rewritable nonvolatile storage unit that can store data even when the ECU 14 is powered off. The CPU 14a, the ROM 14b, the RAM 14c, and the like can be integrated in the same package. Further, the ECU 14 may have a configuration in which another logical operation processor such as a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), a logical circuit, or the like is used instead of the CPU 14a. Further, an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) may be provided instead of the SSD 14f, and the SSD 14f and the HDD may be provided separately from the ECU 14.

  The driving support program 140 may be installed in the SSD 14f instead of the ROM 14b. The driving support program 140 is a file in a format that can be installed in a computer or executable, and is read by a computer such as a CD-ROM, a flexible disk (FD), a CD-R, a DVD (Digital Versatile Disk), or a flash memory. It can be provided by being recorded on a possible recording medium.

  The driving support program 140 may be stored on a computer connected to a network such as the Internet and provided by being downloaded via the network. The driving support program 140 can be provided or distributed via a network such as the Internet.

  Note that the configuration, arrangement, electrical connection form, and the like of the various sensors and actuators described above are examples, and can be variously set or changed.

  FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of the ECU 14 as the driving support device of the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 4, the SSD 14f stores a three-dimensional face model database 401 and a process management database 402. The ECU 14 includes an input unit 403, a collation unit 404, an information acquisition unit 405, a drowsiness level acquisition unit 406, a determination unit 407, a calculation unit 408, and a control unit 409. These components are realized by the CPU 14a executing the driving support program 140 stored in the ROM 14b, and a part or all of these components are configured to be realized by hardware such as an electronic circuit. You may do it.

  The input unit 403 inputs information for determining information related to the driver's body.

  In the present embodiment, the information related to the driver's body is information related to the driver's body shape, and more specifically, the driver's obesity level (the degree of obesity). Moreover, the information for judging the information regarding a driver | operator's body is a driver | operator's weight information.

  The method for inputting the weight information of the driver is not limited to a specific method. For example, the driver's weight information is input from the operation input unit 10 by the occupant. In another example, a load sensor for detecting the weight information of the driver is provided on the seat of the seat 2b or a support that supports the seat 2b on the floor in the passenger compartment 2a, and the value detected by the load sensor. Is input as the weight information of the driver.

  The information acquisition unit 405 acquires the obesity level of the driver based on the input weight information of the driver. For example, the information acquisition unit 405 determines that the driver's obesity level is “obesity”, “obesity” smaller than “obesity”, and “obesity” more than “standard” based on the weight information. It is determined which of “small skinny” is applicable.

  Note that the information for determining the obesity level is not limited to the weight information of the driver. Moreover, any method may be used as the method for determining the obesity level based on weight information or the like, regardless of a known method. The information acquisition unit 405 can acquire the obesity level by any method. For example, an electrode is provided at a location where the driver's skin contacts, such as a steering wheel, and the body fat percentage of the driver is measured using the electrode. The input unit 403 inputs the measured body fat percentage as information for determining the obesity level. Then, the information acquisition unit 405 determines the obesity level based on the body fat percentage.

  The number of obesity levels will be described as three, but the number of obesity levels is not limited to this. The number of obesity levels may be plural.

  Further, the input unit 403 receives image data obtained by capturing an image of the driver by the imaging device 201 as information for determining the driver's sleepiness level (degree of sleepiness).

  The three-dimensional face model database 401 stores a three-dimensional face model that is a statistical face shape model. In the three-dimensional face model, the average three-dimensional face shape of the subject, the positions of facial parts such as the subject's eyes, mouth, and nose, and change information of the subject's eye shape are registered. As an example, the 3D face model may use CLM (Constrained Local Model), AAM (Active Appearance Model), or ASM (Active Shape Model), but is not limited thereto.

  Further, change information is registered in the three-dimensional face model. The change information is data in which a step change in the shape of the driver's eyes associated with a change in the facial expression or movement of the driver is associated with a shape parameter for each step. Specifically, as a change state, a state where the face is faceless and the front is open and the eyes are open is a standard state, and each step such as a gradual change of the eye shape from the standard state until the eyes are closed The state is registered in the 3D face model in association with the shape parameter.

  The collation unit 404 extracts facial features of a plurality of subjects and feature points of facial parts such as eyes and mouths from the acquired captured images, and configures a two-dimensional captured image of the driver and a three-dimensional face model. Adapt to 3D face structure data. That is, the matching unit 404 performs model fitting and model tracking. As a result, the matching unit 404 identifies (estimates) the direction of the driver's face, and further searches for and identifies (estimates) the eye position on the three-dimensional face model. Furthermore, the collation unit 404 detects the driver's face direction and the driver's eye position specified (estimated), and specifies the eye opening degree that is the distance between the driver's upper and lower eyelids.

  The drowsiness level acquisition unit 406 acquires the drowsiness level of the driver from the three-dimensional face model collated by the collation unit 404 and the eye opening degree of the three-dimensional face model. Here, as an example, the sleepiness level acquisition unit 406 indicates that the driver's sleepiness levels are sleepiness level 1 (not sleepy), sleepiness level 2 (slightly sleepy), sleepiness level 3 (sleepy), and sleepiness level 4 ( It is judged whether it corresponds to (very sleepy state). Note that any method may be used as a method for determining the drowsiness level based on the three-dimensional face model, regardless of a known method.

  The process management database 402 is a database that manages processes to be performed when sleepiness is detected.

  FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a process management database 402 according to this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 5, the process management database 402 stores an effect disappearance prediction time, a support level, an arousal stimulus, and a break induction in association with each obesity level.

  The predicted effect disappearance time is predicted that the driver's drowsiness due to the arousal stimulus will not be eliminated, in other words, the effect due to the arousal stimulus will be lost even if the driver is repeatedly given the arousal stimulus. Represents the time. In the present embodiment, the calculation unit 408 calculates the sleepiness level acquired by the sleepiness level acquisition unit 406 based on the time interval when the sleepiness level reaches a predetermined threshold (for example, sleepiness level 3 or sleepiness level 2). Hereinafter, a predetermined threshold value compared with the sleepiness level is referred to as a determination threshold value.

  In the present embodiment, the control executed by the control unit 409 is varied according to the effect disappearance prediction time and the obesity level. In FIG. 5, the effect disappearance prediction time is divided into a plurality. Then, the process management database 402 stores, for each obesity level, the effect loss prediction time category, the arousal stimulus, and the break induction in association with each other. Thereby, the control according to the effect disappearance prediction time and the obesity level can be realized.

  Each division of the estimated effect disappearance time is labeled with a support level. The value of the support level corresponds to the degree of control executed by the control unit 409 at each obesity level. In the present embodiment, the support level value is assigned to each category so that the support level value increases as the estimated effect disappearance time decreases.

  For example, when the obesity level is “slim” and “standard”, the level of predicted loss of effect Tmax is equal to or greater than time T1, support level 1, the predicted loss of effect time Tmax is smaller than time T1, and time T2 (where T1> T2). ) For the above categories, the support level 2 and the effect disappearance prediction time Tmax are smaller than the time T2 and for the time T3 (where T2> T3) or more, the support level 3 and the effect disappearance prediction time Tmax are smaller than the time T3. Support level 4 is set for each. When the obesity level is “obesity”, level 1 and level 2 are set to the same category as when the obesity level is “slim” and “standard”. When the obesity level is “obesity”, the support level 3 is set to a section where the effect disappearance prediction time Tmax is smaller than the time T2. That is, the category of support level 3 when the obesity level is “obesity” is equal to the category obtained by combining the categories set with support level 3 and support level 4 when the obesity level is “slim” and “standard”.

  As the awakening stimulus, the awakening stimulus to be given to the driver is determined, and the timing and the intensity are associated with each other. Timing shows the timing which gives a wake-up stimulus. For example, “when sleepiness level 3 appears” indicates the timing when sleepiness level 3 is detected from the three-dimensional face model. “When sleepiness level 2 appears” indicates the timing when sleepiness level 2 is detected from the three-dimensional face model. “Immediately” indicates that an arousal stimulus is always applied. The intensity indicates the intensity that gives the driver a wakeful stimulus.

  The sleepiness level among the contents set in the timing item is used as a determination threshold.

  In the break guidance, information for guiding the driver to the rest place of the vehicle 1 is defined, and a message and a recommended rest place are associated with each other. The message is set for each support level, in other words, for each estimated effect disappearance time. As for the recommended rest area, information necessary for presenting the rest area to the driver is determined based on the current vehicle 1 and the support level. For example, 50% is defined as A%, and 20-30% is defined as B%. In the present embodiment, a plurality of candidates that are rest places within the range are presented.

  The determination unit 407 determines whether the drowsiness level is equal to or higher than a determination threshold value.

  The determination threshold value varies depending on the support level (in other words, the estimated effect disappearance time). For example, when the obesity level is “slim”, the determination unit 407 uses the sleepiness level 3 as the determination threshold for the support levels 1 to 2, and uses the sleepiness level 2 as the determination threshold for the support level 3. In other words, at the support level 1-2, the driver is still awake, so it is only necessary to detect the drowsiness level 3. At the support level 3, the driver is becoming difficult to wake up. An early stage, in other words, drowsiness level 2 is detected. And when the drowsiness level used as a determination threshold value is detected, control which maintains a wakeful state is performed.

  Further, the determination threshold varies depending on the obesity level. For example, when the obesity level is “slim”, the determination unit 407 uses the sleepiness level 3 as the determination threshold in the support level 2. On the other hand, when the obesity level is “standard”, the determination unit 407 uses the sleepiness level 2 as the determination threshold value at the support level 2.

  Depending on the level of obesity, the effects of arousal stimuli, especially vibration stimuli, vary. FIG. 6 is a graph showing the relationship between the subcutaneous fat thickness and the effect disappearance time obtained by the experiment of the inventors of the present invention. In this experiment, the inventors selected a plurality of subjects having different thicknesses of subcutaneous fat on the back, and applied vibration stimulation to the back when each subject was drowsy. The inventors then repeatedly applied the vibration stimulus to the subject's back, and started applying the vibration stimulus until applying the vibration stimulus until the subject's drowsiness disappeared (effect) (Disappearance time) was measured. As shown in this figure, it was found that the thickness of subcutaneous fat and the effect disappearance time have a negative correlation.

  In the present embodiment, the determination threshold is decreased as the obesity level is increased. As a result, the greater the obesity level, the higher the frequency of applying the arousal stimulus, and as a result, it is possible to maintain the arousal state even for a driver with thick subcutaneous fat.

  Note that the determination threshold value may be different between at least two obesity levels. That is, when the obesity level is the first level, the determination threshold value may be made smaller than when the obesity level is the second level that is smaller than the first level.

  Moreover, not all the determination threshold values need to be different depending on the obesity level. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 5, in the support level 1, the same determination threshold is used regardless of the obesity level. As described above, the determination threshold value of the same value can be set for some support levels at two or more different obesity levels.

  Furthermore, for the same reason as described above, in this embodiment, the greater the obesity level, the greater the intensity of the arousal stimulus, particularly the vibration stimulus. For example, in the case of the obesity level “standard”, the intensity of the arousal stimulus is set to “medium” in the support level 1 and the support level 2, whereas in the case of the obesity level “obesity”, the support level 1 and the support level 2 are set. The intensity of the arousal stimulus is set to “strong”. Further, in the case of the obesity level “skin”, the strength “weak” of the wakefulness stimulus is set to the support level 1, and in the case of the “obesity level”, the strength of the wakefulness stimulus “medium” is set to the support level 1. In the case of “obesity”, the strength of wakefulness stimulus “strong” is set to support level 1. By increasing the intensity of vibration stimulation as the obesity level increases, it is possible to maintain a wakeful state even for a driver whose subcutaneous fat is thick.

  It should be noted that the set intensity may be different between at least two obesity levels. That is, when the obesity level is the first level, the set intensity may be increased as compared with the case where the obesity level is the second level lower than the first level.

  Also, not all set intensities need to be different depending on the obesity level. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 5, in the support level 2, the intensity of the waking stimulus “medium” is set for the obesity level “slim” and the obesity level “standard”. In this way, at two or more different obesity levels, the same strength can be set for some support levels.

  The calculation unit 408 calculates a predicted effect disappearance time based on a time interval from when the determination unit 407 detects a drowsiness level equal to or higher than the determination threshold last time to when a drowsiness level equal to or higher than the determination threshold is detected this time. Expression (1) is an expression for calculating the effect disappearance prediction time Tmax.

  Tmax = α1 × time interval + β1 (1)

  The parameters α1 and β1 are parameters stored in the SSD 14f and are determined according to the embodiment. Furthermore, the parameters α1 and β1 may be adjusted according to the driver's measurement results so far. That is, the ECU 14 measures the transition of the driver's sleepiness level so far and stores it in the SSD 14f. Then, the ECU 14 adjusts the parameters α1 and β1 so as to match the transition of the measured sleepiness level. Thereby, the calculation precision of the effect disappearance prediction time Tmax according to the sleepiness level detected this time can be improved.

  In addition, the present embodiment is not limited to the method of calculating the effect disappearance prediction time Tmax by the above-described equation (1), and the effect disappearance prediction time Tmax may be calculated using another equation. As a modification, a method of calculating the effect disappearance prediction time Tmax using the following formula (2) is conceivable.

  Tmax = α2 × time interval + α3 × drowsiness level detected this time + β2 (2)

  The parameters α2, α3, and β2 are parameters stored in the SSD 14f, and are determined according to the embodiment. The parameters α2, α3, and β2 may also be adjusted according to the driver's measurement results.

  The control unit 409 includes a stimulation unit 411, a guidance location specifying unit 412, and an output control unit 413. The control unit 409 sets a support level based on the predicted effect disappearance time calculated by the calculation unit 408. The control unit 409 receives the obesity level from the information acquisition unit 405. The stimulation unit 411, the guidance location specifying unit 412, and the output control unit 413 perform control according to the obesity level and the support level. In other words, the control unit 409 performs control according to the obesity level and the predicted effect disappearance time.

  By the way, conventionally, when the drowsiness level is equal to or higher than a predetermined threshold, an arousal stimulus is applied. FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating the timing at which a conventional arousal stimulus is applied. In the example shown in FIG. 7, when a sleepiness level 3 is detected, an arousal stimulus is applied. In the example shown in FIG. 7, the time interval in which the drowsiness level 3 is detected is shortened until the drowsiness level 4 is detected. The drowsiness level 4 indicates drowsiness that makes it difficult for the driver to awaken, in other words, makes it difficult for the driver to drive even if the arousal stimulus is applied. In the example shown in FIG. 7, the effect disappearance time from the first detection of sleepiness level 3 to the detection of sleepiness level 4 is 19.5 min.

  On the other hand, the control unit 409 of the present embodiment performs control so that the effect disappearance time becomes longer by performing control according to the effect disappearance prediction time. Furthermore, the control unit 409 makes the effect disappearance time longer for a driver with thick subcutaneous fat by varying the control according to the obesity level.

  The stimulating unit 411 gives the driver a wake-up stimulus with an intensity associated with the obesity level and the support level at a timing associated with the obesity level and the support level. The stimulating unit 411 according to the present embodiment can give an arousal stimulus to the driver by controlling the stimulating device 310a and the vibrating device 310b.

  The guidance location specifying unit 412 is a candidate for a rest location for guiding the vehicle 1 based on the recommended rest location associated with the obesity level and the support level and the current position of the vehicle 1 acquired by the GPS 16. Is identified.

  For example, when the obesity level is “slim”, “standard”, or “obesity” and the support level is 1, the guidance location specifying unit 412 calculates the estimated effect disappearance time Tmax × A% (for example, 50%) × average of the vehicle 1. The distance that the vehicle 1 can move is calculated based on the speed. And the guidance location specific | specification part 412 specifies the place which can rest in the distance which can move from the present position of the said vehicle 1 on the path | route which the present vehicle 1 is advancing now as a candidate for a rest place.

  For example, when the obesity level is “slim” or “standard” and the support level is 2, the guidance location specifying unit 412 has an estimated effect disappearance time Tmax × B% (for example, 20 to 30%) × the average speed of the vehicle 1. The distance that the vehicle 1 can move is calculated. After that, it is the same as support level 1.

  For example, even when the support level is 2, if the obesity level is “obesity”, or if the obesity level is “slim” or “standard” and the support level is 3, the guidance location specifying unit 412 is closest. Identify rest areas.

  FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of a break place candidate specified by the guide place specifying unit 412 of this embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 8, when the obesity level is “low”, “standard”, or “obesity” and the support level is 1, the guidance location specifying unit 412 predicts the effect disappearance time Tmax × A% (for example, 50%). %) × the first SA, the first PA, and the second SA existing at the movable distance 801 calculated by the average speed of the vehicle 1 are specified as the rest place candidates. Further, the guidance location specifying unit 412 has an estimated effect disappearance time Tmax × B% (for example, 20 to 30%) × the average speed of the vehicle 1 when the obesity level is “lean” or “standard” and the support level is 2. The first SA existing at the calculated movable distance 802 is specified as a rest place candidate. Further, the guidance location specifying unit 412 is present at the closest position when the obesity level is “obesity”, when the support level is 2, or when the obesity level is “lean” or “standard”, and when the support level is 3. The first SA is identified as a rest place candidate.

  The output control unit 413 outputs a message associated with the obesity level and the support level from the voice output device 9.

  Further, the output control unit 413 outputs the rest place candidates specified by the guidance place specifying unit 412 to the display screen 8.

  The message may be output at any timing and may be the timing at which the arousal stimulus is applied. As another example, it may be output at regular intervals, or the frequency of output may be varied according to the obesity level or the support level. In addition, the rest place candidates may be continuously displayed on the display screen 8 or may be alternately displayed with a map or the like. As a method for displaying a candidate for a rest place, a distance to the rest place candidate and the rest place may be displayed in characters, or a rest place may be displayed on a map.

  FIG. 9 is a diagram exemplifying a timing and a support level at which an arousal stimulus is given by the ECU 14 of the present embodiment. The example shown in FIG. 9 is an example in which the obesity level is “slim”. As shown in FIG. 5, in support levels 1 to 2, a wakeful stimulus is applied at the timing when sleepiness level 3 is detected, and in support level 3, the sleepiness level 2 is detected at timing. Awakening stimulus is applied.

  Then, when the predicted effect disappearance time Tmax is equal to or greater than the time T1 and the support level 1, the control unit 409 causes the stimulation unit 411 to weaken the driver's arousal stimulus at the timing when the sleepiness level 3 is detected. And the output control unit 413 performs output control such as “Let's refresh at an early break”. Further, a place that can be reached within 50% of the estimated effect disappearance time Tmax is guided as a rest place candidate.

  And in the assistance levels 1-2, the control part 409 determines whether a assistance level is changed based on the time interval when the sleepiness level 3 was detected. In the example shown in FIG. 9, the control unit 409 switches to the support level 2 when the estimated effect disappearance time Tmax calculated based on the time interval 901 becomes shorter than the time T1 (see FIG. 5).

  The control unit 409 is configured such that, at the support level 2, at the timing when the drowsiness level 3 is detected, the stimulation unit 411 gives the driver an arousal stimulus in the middle, and the output control unit 413 displays the “wakefulness support effect”. Is difficult to obtain. Let ’s take a break. ” Furthermore, the output control unit 413 guides a place where the user can reach within 20 to 30% of the estimated effect disappearance time Tmax as a rest place candidate.

  Further, the control unit 409 switches to the support level 3 when the effect disappearance prediction time Tmax calculated based on the time interval 902 becomes shorter than the time T2 (see FIG. 5).

  The control unit 409 is configured such that, at the timing at which the drowsiness level 2 is detected in the support level 3, the stimulation unit 411 gives the driver a strong arousal stimulus and the output control unit 413 displays the “wakefulness support effect”. "I can't expect. Please take a break right away." Further, the output control unit 413 guides the nearest rest place. Moreover, you may specify the period when the awakening support effect is acquired.

  Further, the control unit 409 determines that the predicted effect disappearance time Tmax calculated based on the time interval 903 until the sleepiness level 3 is detected after the sleepiness level 2 is detected at the support level 3 is the time T3 ( When it becomes smaller than that shown in FIG.

  At the support level 4, the control unit 409 continuously applies the arousal stimulus with a strong intensity, and the output control unit 413 performs output control such that “It is in a dangerous state. . The control unit 409 may perform automatic deceleration and stop control of the vehicle 1 as necessary.

  In the example shown in FIG. 9, the effect disappearance time from the first detection of drowsiness level 3 to the detection of drowsiness level 4 is 47.6 min. In the present embodiment, by changing the intensity and timing of stimulus application according to the support level, in other words, the effect disappearance prediction time, it is possible to extend the time until the effect of the arousal stimulus is lost as compared with the conventional case.

  In the present embodiment, when the drowsiness level is equal to or higher than the determination threshold, an arousal stimulus is applied, and the predicted effect disappearance time is calculated at this timing. Then, a support level is set according to the predicted effect disappearance time. And according to the obesity level and the support level, the timing for applying the arousal stimulus and the intensity of the stimulus are determined, and the resting place can be displayed at an appropriate timing.

  Next, the driving support process in the ECU 14 of the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the operation of the ECU 14 as the driving support device of the present embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 10, the input unit 403 inputs weight information (S101).

  Next, the information acquisition unit 405 acquires the obesity level of the driver based on the weight information (S102).

  Next, the control unit 409 performs initial setting of the support level (S103). In the present embodiment, support level 1 is set as the initial setting.

  Next, the input unit 403 inputs image data picked up by the image pickup apparatus 201 (S104).

  Next, the collation unit 404 collates the driver's face from the input image data (S105).

  Next, the sleepiness level acquisition unit 406 acquires the driver's sleepiness level from the driver's three-dimensional face model specified from the image data (S106).

  The determination unit 407 determines whether or not the acquired sleepiness level is equal to or higher than a determination threshold determined by the obesity level and the support level (S107). When it is determined that the acquired sleepiness level is not equal to or higher than the determination threshold (S107: No), the process is executed again from S104.

  On the other hand, when it is determined that the acquired drowsiness level is equal to or higher than the determination threshold (S107: Yes), the stimulating unit 411 gives the driver an awakening stimulus determined by the obesity level and the support level (S108).

  Then, the calculation unit 408 determines whether or not there is a time interval from when the drowsiness level equal to or higher than the determination threshold is detected last time to when the drowsiness level equal to or higher than the determination threshold is detected this time (S109). When there is no time interval, in other words, when this is the first time that a drowsiness level equal to or greater than the determination threshold is detected (S109: No), the processing is executed again from S104.

  On the other hand, when the calculation unit 408 determines that there is a time interval from when the drowsiness level equal to or higher than the determination threshold is detected last time to when the drowsiness level equal to or higher than the determination threshold is detected this time (S109: Yes), Based on the time interval, the estimated effect disappearance time is calculated (S110).

  Then, the control unit 409 sets a support level based on the calculated effect disappearance prediction time (S111).

  Then, the control unit 409 sets a determination threshold value (timing for giving a wake-up stimulus) and an intensity associated with the obesity level and the support level in order to give the wake-up stimulus next (S112).

  Further, the guidance location specifying unit 412 calculates the distance that the vehicle 1 can move based on the predicted effect disappearance time, and specifies the rest location candidates that exist within the distance (S113).

  Then, the output control unit 413 outputs the specified rest place candidates to the display screen 8 and outputs a message corresponding to the obesity level and the support level (S114).

  Thereafter, the control unit 409 determines whether or not the support level has reached the maximum value (S115). According to the example of FIG. 5, when the support level reaches the maximum value, stop control of the vehicle 1 is executed as necessary. When the obesity level is “obesity”, the maximum value of the support level is 3, and when the obesity level is “slim” or “standard”, the maximum value of the support level is 4. Therefore, when the obesity level acquired by the information acquisition unit 405 is “obesity”, the control unit 409 determines whether or not the support level is “3” in S115. When the obesity level acquired by the information acquisition unit 405 is “lean” or “standard”, the control unit 409 determines whether or not the support level is “4” in S115.

  When it is determined that the support level has not reached the maximum value (S115: No), the process is executed again from S104.

  On the other hand, when it is determined that the support level has reached the maximum value (S115: Yes), the stimulating unit 411 always applies a strong stimulus, and the output control unit 413 outputs a break warning message and controls as necessary. The unit 409 performs stop control of the vehicle 1 (S116).

  As described above, according to the first embodiment, in the ECU 14 as the driving support device, the information acquisition unit 405 acquires the obesity level of the driver, and the sleepiness level acquisition unit 406 determines the sleepiness level of the driver. get. The calculation unit 408 calculates an effect disappearance prediction time indicating a prediction time at which sleepiness is not eliminated even when a stimulus is given to the driver, based on an interval of time when the sleepiness level is equal to or higher than the determination threshold. The control unit 409 varies the control performed on the driver according to the obesity level and the effect disappearance prediction time. By varying the control according to the predicted effect disappearance time, the time until the effect of the control on the driver disappears can be extended. Further, by changing the control according to the obesity level of the driver, it is possible to maintain the arousal state even for a driver with thick subcutaneous fat, which is difficult to obtain the effect of eliminating drowsiness by vibration stimulation or the like.

  The ECU 14 as the driving support device according to the first embodiment extends the time until the effect of the process (for example, arousal stimulus) on the driver disappears by changing the process to be executed according to the predicted effect disappearance time. Appropriate support can be realized. That is, since the appropriate stimulus intensity and the timing of applying the stimulus can be adjusted according to the degree of sleepiness of the driver, the effect of eliminating the sleepiness can be enhanced and the troublesomeness of applying the stimulus can be reduced.

  In addition, the control unit 409 applies vibration stimulation to the driver, in particular, using the vibration device 310b. The ECU 14 as the driving support device can maintain the driver's arousal state by vibration stimulation.

  Further, the control unit 409 makes the determination threshold value smaller when the obesity level of the driver is the first level than when the obesity level of the driver is the second level that is smaller than the first level. . Therefore, since it is possible to increase the frequency of applying vibration stimulation to a driver with thick subcutaneous fat, it is possible to maintain a wakeful state even for a driver with thick subcutaneous fat.

  In addition, the control unit 409 increases the intensity of vibration stimulation when the driver's obesity level is the first level, compared to when the driver's obesity level is the second level lower than the first level. Strengthen. Therefore, since it is possible to increase the intensity of vibration stimulation for a driver with thick subcutaneous fat, it is possible to maintain a wakeful state for a driver with thick subcutaneous fat.

  In the above description, the control unit 409, when the driver's obesity level is the first level, compared to the case where the driver's obesity level is the second level smaller than the first level, The judgment threshold was reduced and the intensity of vibration stimulation was increased. The control unit 409 may execute only one of decreasing the determination threshold and increasing the intensity of the vibration stimulus.

  In addition, the control unit 409 outputs a rest place candidate where the vehicle 1 can stop within a range in which the vehicle 1 can travel within the calculated predicted loss of effect time. The persuasive power of the necessity of a break can be improved by changing a rest place according to the effect disappearance prediction time. This improves the possibility that the driver will select a break.

  Conventionally, when a stimulus is applied, drowsiness is eliminated by the stimulus, and there is a possibility that the driver may not select a break. In this embodiment, the rest place suitable for a driver | operator's sense can be shown by changing the candidate of the rest place to show according to the effect loss prediction time. Thereby, the possibility of selecting a break can be increased.

  In addition, the sleepiness level acquisition unit 406 acquires the sleepiness level when the sleepiness level calculated from the driver's captured image captured by the imaging device 201 is greater than the determination threshold. Therefore, for example, by calculating the effect disappearance prediction time according to the sleepiness level corresponding to the driver's imaging result, the accuracy of control based on the effect disappearance prediction time can be improved.

  In addition, the control unit 409 varies the determination threshold according to the predicted effect disappearance time calculated by the calculation unit 408. Therefore, for example, since the determination threshold is set according to the driver's sleepiness level, the time until the effect of the processing on the driver disappears can be extended.

<Second Embodiment>
In the first embodiment, the example in which the obesity level is adopted as the information related to the driver's body has been described. Information about the driver's body is not limited to the obesity level. For example, the information related to the driver's body may be information related to the age of the driver.

  In the second embodiment, an example in which age is adopted as information related to the driver's body will be described. Here, as an example, the age is classified into an age level “young” and an age level “elderly”. The age level “elderly” is a higher age than the age level “young”.

  Here, components having the same functions as those of the first embodiment are denoted by the same names and symbols as those of the first embodiment. Further, description of components having functions similar to those of the first embodiment is omitted.

  FIG. 11 is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration of the ECU 14 as the driving support device according to the second embodiment. As shown in FIG. 11, the SSD 14f stores a three-dimensional face model database 401 and a process management database 402a. The ECU 14 includes an input unit 403a, a collation unit 404, an information acquisition unit 405a, a drowsiness level acquisition unit 406, a determination unit 407, a calculation unit 408, and a control unit 409. These components are realized by the CPU 14a executing the driving support program 140 stored in the ROM 14b, and a part or all of these components are configured to be realized by hardware such as an electronic circuit. You may do it.

  The input unit 403a receives not only the image data of the driver imaged by the imaging device 201 but also the age information of the driver.

  The age information is not limited to simply expressing the age as a numerical value. For example, the age may be divided every predetermined number of years such as 5 years, and the age division may be input as age information.

  The method for inputting the age of the driver is not limited to a specific method. For example, the driver's age information is input via the operation input unit 10 by the occupant. Age information may be input via the operation input unit 10 or the like in advance user registration.

  The information acquisition unit 405a acquires an age level based on the input driver age information. Here, as an example, the information acquisition unit 405a determines whether the age level of the driver is “young” or “elder” based on the age information. Note that the age level determination method based on the age level may be any method regardless of a known method. Although the number of levels of the age level is 2 here, the number of levels of the age level may be 3 or more.

  FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating a process management database 402a according to the second embodiment. As illustrated in FIG. 12, the process management database 402a stores a support level, an arousal stimulus, and a resting guide in association with each other for “young people” and “elderly people”.

  In the second embodiment, the control executed by the control unit 409 is varied according to the predicted effect disappearance time and the age level. In FIG. 12, the process management database 402a stores a support level, an arousal stimulus, and a resting guide in association with each age level. Thereby, the control according to the age level and the expected disappearance time can be realized.

  According to the example of FIG. 12, as in the first embodiment, the determination threshold value differs according to the support level (in other words, the estimated effect disappearance time). For example, when the age level is “young”, the drowsiness level 3 is used as the determination threshold in the support levels 1 to 2, and the drowsiness level 2 is used as the determination threshold in the support level 3.

  In the second embodiment, the determination threshold varies depending on the age level. For example, when the age level is “young”, the sleepiness level 3 is used as the determination threshold at the support level 2. On the other hand, when the age level is “elderly”, in the support level 2, the sleepiness level 2 is used as a determination threshold.

  Depending on age, the effects of arousal stimuli vary. FIG. 13 is a graph showing the experimental results obtained by the experiment of the inventor of the present invention, and the results of comparing the nerve activity values of the supplementary motor area when the vibration stimulus is applied between the elderly and the young. It is a graph to show. In this experiment, the inventors selected elderly and young people as subjects. The inventors reported the subject's subjective drowsiness level, and applied vibration stimulation when the drowsiness level 3 was reported. The inventors of the present invention measured the nerve activity value (current density) of the supplementary motor area after applying the vibration stimulus. As shown in this figure, it was found that the neural activity value of the supplementary motor area for the vibration stimulus of the same intensity was higher in the younger than in the elderly.

  Increased activity of supplemental motor areas has been found to contribute to arousal. According to the above experimental results, the increase in the activity of the supplementary motor area caused by the vibration stimulus is smaller in the elderly than in the young, so the sleepiness relieving effect by the stimulus with the same intensity increases in age It is thought that it will be attenuated.

  Thus, in the second embodiment, the determination threshold is decreased as the age increases, and the frequency of applying the arousal stimulus is increased as the age increases. And even if it is a case where a driver | operator's age is large, it is made to maintain a wakeful state.

  Specifically, here, when the age level is “elderly”, the determination threshold is made smaller than when the age level is “younger” than “elderly”.

  When the number of age level levels is 3 or more, the determination threshold value may be different between at least two age levels. That is, when the age level is the first level, the determination threshold value may be made smaller than when the age level is the second level that is younger than the first level.

  Moreover, not all the determination threshold values need to be different depending on the age level. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 12, at the support level 3, the same determination threshold is used regardless of the age level. As described above, the same threshold value can be set for some support levels at two or more different age levels.

  Further, for the same reason as described above, in the second embodiment, the intensity of the awakening stimulus, particularly the vibration stimulus is increased as the age increases. For example, when the age information is “young”, the support level “1” is set to “weak” arousal stimulus intensity, whereas when the age information is “elderly”, the support level is set to “1”. The intensity of the arousal stimulus is set to “medium”. By increasing the strength of the vibration stimulus as the age increases, the awakening state can be maintained even when the driver is older.

  When the number of age levels is 3 or more, it is only necessary that the set intensity differs between at least two age levels. That is, when the age level is the first level, the set intensity may be increased compared to the case where the age level is a second level that is younger than the first level.

  Moreover, not all the determination threshold values need to be different depending on the age level. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 12, at the support levels 2 to 4, the same set intensity is used regardless of the age level. In this way, at two or more different age levels, the same strength can be set for some support levels.

  The control unit 409 includes a stimulation unit 411, a guidance location specifying unit 412, and an output control unit 413. The control unit 409 sets a support level based on the predicted effect disappearance time calculated by the calculation unit 408. The control unit 409 receives an age level from the information acquisition unit 405a. The stimulation unit 411, the guidance location specifying unit 412, and the output control unit 413 perform control according to the age level and the support level. In other words, the control unit 409 performs control according to the age level and the predicted effect disappearance time.

  Next, the driving support process in the ECU 14 of the second embodiment will be described. FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing the operation of the ECU 14 as the driving support device of the second embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 14, the input unit 403a inputs age information (S201). The information acquisition unit 405a acquires an age level from the age information (S202).

  Next, the control unit 409 performs initial setting of the support level (S203). As an initial setting, for example, support level 1 is set.

  Next, the input unit 403a inputs image data captured by the imaging device 201 (S204).

  Next, the collation unit 404 collates the driver's face from the input image data (S205).

  Next, the sleepiness level acquisition unit 406 acquires the driver's sleepiness level from the driver's three-dimensional face model specified from the image data (S206).

  The determination unit 407 determines whether or not the acquired sleepiness level is equal to or higher than a determination threshold determined by the age level and the support level (S207). When it is determined that the acquired sleepiness level is not equal to or higher than the determination threshold (S207: No), the process is executed again from S204.

  On the other hand, when it is determined that the acquired drowsiness level is equal to or higher than the determination threshold (S207: Yes), the stimulating unit 411 gives the driver an arousal stimulus determined by the age level and the support level (S208).

  Then, the calculation unit 408 determines whether or not there is a time interval from when the drowsiness level equal to or higher than the determination threshold is detected last time to when the drowsiness level equal to or higher than the determination threshold is detected this time (S209). When there is no time interval, in other words, when this is the first time that a drowsiness level equal to or greater than the determination threshold is detected (S209: No), the process is executed again from S204.

  On the other hand, when the calculation unit 408 determines that there is a time interval from when the drowsiness level equal to or higher than the determination threshold was detected last time to when the drowsiness level equal to or higher than the determination threshold is detected this time (S209: Yes), An estimated effect disappearance time is calculated based on the time interval (S210).

  Then, the control unit 409 sets a support level based on the calculated effect disappearance prediction time (S211).

  Then, the control unit 409 sets a determination threshold (timing for giving a wake-up stimulus) and an intensity associated with the age level and the support level in order to give the wake-up stimulus next (S212).

  Further, the guidance location specifying unit 412 calculates the distance that the vehicle 1 can move based on the predicted effect disappearance time, and specifies the rest location candidates that exist within the distance (S213).

  Then, the output control unit 413 outputs the specified rest place candidates to the display screen 8 and outputs a message corresponding to the age level and the support level (S214).

  Thereafter, the control unit 409 determines whether or not the support level has reached the maximum value (S215). When it is determined that the support level has not reached the maximum value (S215: No), the process is executed again from S204. On the other hand, when it is determined that the support level has reached the maximum value (S215: Yes), the stimulation unit 411 always applies a strong stimulus, and the output control unit 413 outputs a break warning message, and controls as necessary. The unit 409 performs stop control of the vehicle 1 (S216).

  As described above, according to the second embodiment, the information acquisition unit 405a acquires the age level of the driver. The control unit 409 varies the control performed on the driver in accordance with the age level and the effect disappearance prediction time. By varying the control according to the age level of the driver, it is possible to maintain an arousal state even for an elderly driver who is difficult to obtain the effect of eliminating drowsiness.

  Further, the control unit 409 makes the determination threshold value smaller when the driver's age level is the first level than when the driver's age level is a second level lower than the first level. . Therefore, since it becomes possible to raise the frequency which gives a vibration stimulus to an elderly driver, an awakening state can be maintained also to an elderly driver.

  In addition, the control unit 409 increases the intensity of vibration stimulation when the driver's age level is the first level, compared to when the driver's age level is a second level that is lower than the first level. Strengthen. Therefore, since it is possible to increase the intensity of vibration stimulation for an elderly driver, it is possible to maintain an arousal state even for an elderly driver.

  In the above description, when the driver's age level is the first level, the control unit 409 makes the determination threshold smaller and the vibration is lower than when the driver's age level is the second level. Increased the intensity of stimulation. The control unit 409 may execute only one of decreasing the determination threshold and increasing the intensity of the vibration stimulus.

  As described in the first and second embodiments, by changing the control based on the information related to the driver's body, the awakening state can be obtained even for a driver who has a physical condition in which the effect of eliminating drowsiness is difficult to obtain. Can be maintained. Any information regarding the driver's body may be adopted as information regarding the driver's body as long as the information indicates a property or attribute that causes a difference in the effect of eliminating drowsiness.

  Further, both the first embodiment and the second embodiment can be applied. For example, the control unit 409 may vary the control performed on the driver according to the obesity level, the age level, and the predicted effect disappearance time.

<Third Embodiment>
In the first and second embodiments, the example in which the control is changed based on the information related to the driver's body has been described. Instead of the information related to the driver's body, the control may be made different based on the information related to the sleep quality of the driver sleeping.

  In the third embodiment, an example in which a sleep debt level is adopted as information related to the quality of sleep while the driver is sleeping will be described. The sleep debt is a lack of sleep time obtained by subtracting the actual sleep time from the required sleep time, and can be accumulated across days. The sleep debt level is information indicating whether or not there is a sleep debt and, if there is a sleep debt, whether the sleep debt is acute or chronic.

  The state where there is an acute sleep debt refers to a state where the sleep debt is generated on the previous day or in the previous few days and the sleep debt is not resolved. For example, the case of staying up all night the day before corresponds to a state having an acute sleep debt. The state where there is a chronic sleep debt is a state where the sleep debt has not been eliminated for a long period of time such as one week to several months. From the viewpoint of sleep quality, the quality deteriorates in the order of no sleep liability, acute sleep debt, and chronic sleep debt.

  In addition, although demonstrated here that the number of sleep debt levels is 3, the number of levels of a sleep debt level is not limited to this. The number of sleep debt levels may be plural.

  The sleep debt level is measured, for example, by a monitoring system 600 provided in the driver's home bed.

  As illustrated in FIG. 15, for example, the monitoring system 600 includes two detection devices 601 and an analysis device 602. The two detection devices 601 are respectively attached to the head-side legs of the bed 610, and each detects a load. The analysis device 602 detects the driver's sleeping body motion based on the loads detected by the two detection devices 601 and determines the sleep debt level based on the detected body motion. For example, the analysis device 602 estimates the sleep depth from the body movement while sleeping, and records the estimated sleep depth as a history over a long period (for example, several months). Then, based on the sleep depth history, the analysis device 602 determines whether the sleep liability level corresponds to a state where there is no sleep liability, a state where there is an acute sleep liability, or a state where there is a chronic sleep liability. To do.

  The determined sleep debt level is transmitted to the ECU 14 as the driving support device of the third embodiment by an arbitrary method. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 15, the analysis device 602 transfers the information to a portable information processing terminal 700 (for example, a smartphone) owned by the driver via a wireless or wired communication path. When the driver carries the information processing terminal 700 and gets on the vehicle 1, the ECU 14 receives the sleep debt level stored in the information processing terminal 700 via a wired or wireless communication path.

  FIG. 16 is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration of the ECU 14 as the driving support apparatus according to the third embodiment. Here, components having the same functions as those of the first embodiment are denoted by the same names and symbols as those of the first embodiment. Further, description of components having functions similar to those of the first embodiment is omitted.

  As shown in FIG. 16, the SSD 14f stores a three-dimensional face model database 401 and a process management database 402b. The ECU 14 includes an input unit 403b, a collation unit 404, an information acquisition unit 405b, a drowsiness level acquisition unit 406, a determination unit 407, a calculation unit 408, and a control unit 409. These components are realized by the CPU 14a executing the driving support program 140 stored in the ROM 14b, and a part or all of these components are configured to be realized by hardware such as an electronic circuit. You may do it.

  The input unit 403b receives not only the image data of the driver imaged by the imaging device 201 but also the sleep debt level. The information acquisition unit 405b acquires the input driver's sleep debt level.

  FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating a process management database 402b according to the third embodiment. As illustrated in FIG. 17, the process management database 402 b stores a support level, a wake-up stimulus, and a break guide in association with each sleep debt level.

  In the third embodiment, the control executed by the control unit 409 is varied according to the effect disappearance prediction time and the sleep debt level. In FIG. 17, the process management database 402b stores a support level, an arousal stimulus, and a resting guide in association with each other for each sleep debt level. Thereby, control according to an effect disappearance prediction time and a sleep debt level is realizable.

  According to the example of FIG. 17, as in the first embodiment, the determination threshold value differs according to the support level (in other words, the estimated effect disappearance time). For example, when the sleep liability level is “the state where there is no sleep liability”, the sleepiness level 3 is used as the determination threshold in the support levels 1 to 2, and the sleepiness level 2 is used as the determination threshold in the support level 3. The

  Moreover, in 3rd Embodiment, the determination threshold value changes according to a sleep debt level. For example, when the sleep debt level is “a state where there is no sleep liability” or “a state where there is an acute sleep liability”, the sleep level 3 is used as the determination threshold in the support levels 1 and 2. On the other hand, when the sleep debt level is “the state where there is a chronic sleep debt”, the sleepiness level 2 is used as the determination threshold in the support levels 1 to 2.

  The effect of arousal stimuli varies with sleep debt levels. FIG. 18 is a graph showing the results obtained by the inventor's experiment of the present invention. The nerve activity value of the supplementary motor area when the vibration stimulus is applied is shown as follows. It is the graph compared with the test subject in the state of staying up all night. In this experiment, the inventors of the present invention allowed the subject to report a subjective drowsiness level, and applied a vibration stimulus when the drowsiness level 3 was reported. The inventors of the present invention measured the nerve activity value (current density) of the supplementary motor area after applying the vibration stimulus. In addition, the state in which the necessary sleep was taken corresponds to the state in which there is no sleep liability, and the state of staying up all night the previous day corresponds to the state in which there is an acute sleep liability. As shown in this figure, the neural activity value of the supplementary motor area for vibration stimuli of the same intensity is the value of the neural activity value of the supplementary motor area when staying up the night before, compared to when the necessary sleep was taken. It turned out to be greatly inferior.

  According to the above experimental results, it can be seen that when the sleep debt level is poor, the awakening effect caused by the vibration stimulation is smaller than when the sleep debt level is good. That is, the drowsiness relieving effect due to stimulation with the same intensity decreases as the sleep debt level deteriorates.

  Therefore, in the third embodiment, the determination threshold is decreased as the sleep liability level is deteriorated, so that the frequency of applying the awakening stimulus is increased as the sleep liability level is deteriorated. And even if it is a case where a driver | operator's sleep debt level, ie, the quality of sleep, is unsatisfactory, a wakeful state can be maintained.

  In addition, the determination threshold value should just differ between at least two sleep debt levels. That is, when the sleep debt level is the first level, the determination threshold value may be made smaller than when the sleep debt level is the second level that is better than the first level.

  Moreover, not all determination thresholds need to be different depending on the sleep debt level. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 17, in the support levels 1 to 2, the sleep liability level is the same in the “state having no sleep liability” and the sleep debt level in the “state having an acute sleep liability”. The decision threshold is used. In this way, in two or more different sleep debt levels, the same threshold value can be set for some support levels.

  Furthermore, for the same reason as described above, in the third embodiment, the intensity of the awakening stimulus, particularly the vibration stimulus, is increased as the sleep debt level is deteriorated. For example, regarding the support level 1, when the sleep debt level is “the state where there is no sleep debt”, the intensity of the wakefulness stimulus “weak” is set, and the sleep debt level is “the state where there is an acute sleep debt” or “chronic” If the sleep debt is “in a state where there is a sleep debt”, the intensity of the waking stimulus “medium” is set. As for support level 2, when the sleep debt level is “the state where there is no sleep liability”, the intensity of the arousal stimulus is set to “medium”, and the sleep debt level is set to “the state where there is an acute sleep debt” or “chronic” If the sleep debt is “a state where there is a sleep debt”, the intensity of the arousal stimulus is set to “strong”. By increasing the intensity of the vibration stimulus as the sleep debt level is worse, the wakefulness can be maintained even when the sleep debt level of the driver, that is, the sleep quality is poor.

  It should be noted that the set intensity is different between at least two sleep debt levels. That is, when the sleep debt level is the first level, the set intensity may be increased as compared with the case where the sleep debt level is the second level that is better than the first level.

  In addition, not all set intensities need to be different depending on the sleep debt level. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 17, the sleep debt level is “a state where there is an acute sleep debt” and the sleep debt level is “a state where there is a chronic sleep debt”. The same determination threshold is set. Thus, the intensity | strength of the same value can be set to a support level in two or more different sleep debt levels.

  The control unit 409 includes a stimulation unit 411, a guidance location specifying unit 412, and an output control unit 413. The control unit 409 sets a support level based on the predicted effect disappearance time calculated by the calculation unit 408. In addition, the control unit 409 receives the sleep liability level from the information acquisition unit 405b. The stimulating unit 411, the guidance location specifying unit 412, and the output control unit 413 perform control according to the sleep debt level and the support level. In other words, the control unit 409 performs control according to the sleep debt level and the predicted effect disappearance time.

  Next, the driving support process in the ECU 14 of the third embodiment will be described. FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing the operation of the ECU 14 as the driving support device of the third embodiment.

  As FIG. 19 shows, the input part 403b inputs a sleep debt level (S301). The information acquisition unit 405b acquires the sleep debt level (S302).

  Next, the control unit 409 performs initial setting of the support level (S303). As an initial setting, for example, support level 1 is set.

  Next, the input unit 403b inputs image data captured by the imaging device 201 (S304).

  Next, the collation unit 404 collates the driver's face from the input image data (S305).

  Next, the sleepiness level acquisition unit 406 acquires the driver's sleepiness level from the driver's three-dimensional face model identified from the image data (S306).

  The determination unit 407 determines whether or not the acquired drowsiness level is equal to or higher than a determination threshold determined by the sleep debt level and the support level (S307). When it is determined that the acquired sleepiness level is not equal to or higher than the determination threshold (S307: No), the process is executed again from S304.

  On the other hand, when it is determined that the acquired sleepiness level is greater than or equal to the determination threshold (S307: Yes), the stimulating unit 411 provides the driver with an arousal stimulus determined by the sleep debt level and the support level (S308).

  Then, the calculation unit 408 determines whether or not there is a time interval from when the drowsiness level equal to or higher than the determination threshold is detected last time until the drowsiness level equal to or higher than the determination threshold is detected this time (S309). When there is no time interval, in other words, when this is the first time that a drowsiness level equal to or greater than the determination threshold has been detected (S309: No), the processing is executed again from S304.

  On the other hand, when the calculation unit 408 determines that there is a time interval from when the drowsiness level equal to or higher than the determination threshold is detected last time to when the drowsiness level equal to or higher than the threshold threshold is detected this time (S309: Yes), Based on the time interval, an estimated effect disappearance time is calculated (S310).

  Then, the control unit 409 sets a support level based on the calculated effect disappearance prediction time (S311).

  Then, the control unit 409 sets a determination threshold value (timing for giving a wake-up stimulus) and an intensity associated with the sleep debt level and the support level in order to give the wake-up stimulus next (S312).

  Further, the guidance location specifying unit 412 calculates the distance that the vehicle 1 can move based on the predicted effect disappearance time, and specifies the rest location candidates that exist within the distance (S313).

  Then, the output control unit 413 outputs the identified rest place candidates to the display screen 8 and outputs a message corresponding to the sleep debt level and the support level (S314).

  Thereafter, the control unit 409 determines whether or not the support level has reached the maximum value (S315). When it is determined that the support level has not reached the maximum value (S315: No), the process is executed again from S304. On the other hand, when it is determined that the support level has reached the maximum value (S315: Yes), the stimulating unit 411 always gives a strong stimulus, and the output control unit 413 outputs a break warning message and controls as necessary. The unit 409 performs stop control of the vehicle 1 (S316).

  In the above description, the sleep debt level is described as being determined by an external device (for example, the monitoring system 600) with respect to the ECU 14. The monitoring system 600 detects sleep time on the day before the driver, body movement during sleeping, and the like. The input unit 403b may input the information from the monitoring system 600, and the information acquisition unit 405b may determine the sleep debt level based on the information input by the input unit 403b.

  Moreover, the apparatus which measures a sleep debt level is not limited to the monitoring system 600 mentioned above. For example, the sleep debt level may be measured by a wearable terminal that can measure body movement, heart rate, and the like. Furthermore, body motion and heart rate may be measured by the wearable terminal, and the information acquisition unit 405b may determine the sleep debt level based on the body motion and heart rate measured by the wearable terminal.

  Alternatively, the driver may determine the sleep debt level by himself and input the sleep debt level to the operation input unit 10 at a timing such as before the start of driving.

  In addition, as an example of information related to the quality of sleep while the driver is sleeping, the sleep debt level has been described. The information related to the sleep quality of the driver sleeping may be information related to the sleep quality of the driver sleeping, and is not limited to the sleep debt level. For example, the sleep time of the driver's previous day may be used as information regarding the quality of sleep during the driver's sleep.

  As described above, according to the third embodiment, the information acquisition unit 405b acquires a sleep debt level as information indicating the quality of sleep while the driver is sleeping. The control unit 409 varies the control performed on the driver according to the sleep debt level and the effect disappearance prediction time. By varying the control according to the sleep quality of the driver while sleeping, it is possible to maintain the arousal state even for the driver who is difficult to obtain the effect of eliminating sleepiness due to poor sleep quality. .

  In addition, the control unit 409, when the sleep debt level (that is, the sleep quality of the driver sleeping) is the first level, the sleep debt level is a better second level than the first level In comparison with FIG. Therefore, since it becomes possible to increase the frequency of applying vibration stimulation to a driver with poor sleep quality, it is possible to maintain a wakeful state for a driver with poor sleep quality. it can.

  In addition, the control unit 409, when the sleep debt level (that is, the sleep quality of the driver sleeping) is the first level, the sleep debt level is a better second level than the first level Compared to, increase the intensity of vibration stimulation. Therefore, since it is possible to increase the intensity of vibration stimulation for a driver with poor sleep quality, it is possible to maintain a wakeful state for a driver with poor sleep quality. .

  In the above description, when the sleep debt level (that is, the quality of sleep while the driver is sleeping) is the first level, the control unit 409 determines that the sleep debt level is better than the first level. Compared with the case of the level, the determination threshold value was reduced and the intensity of the vibration stimulus was increased. The control unit 409 may execute only one of decreasing the determination threshold and increasing the intensity of the vibration stimulus.

  The third embodiment described above can be applied together with one or both of the first and second embodiments. For example, the control unit 409 may vary the control performed on the driver according to the obesity level, the age level, the sleep debt level, and the predicted loss of effect time.

<Fourth Embodiment>
In the first to third embodiments, the ECU 14 calculates the drowsiness level from the driver's captured image captured by the imaging device 201. The method for acquiring the sleepiness level is not limited to this. For example, you may make a driver report sleepiness. In the fourth embodiment, an example of letting the driver report drowsiness will be described.

  As illustrated in FIG. 20, the steering unit 4 is provided with an operation button 203 for notifying that the driver has become sleepy. The driver presses the operation button 203 according to the degree of sleepiness.

  FIG. 21 is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration of the ECU 14 as the driving support device according to the fourth embodiment. Here, components having the same functions as those of the first embodiment are denoted by the same names and symbols as those of the first embodiment. Further, description of components having functions similar to those of the first embodiment is omitted.

  As shown in FIG. 21, the SSD 14f stores a process management database 402c. The ECU 14 includes an input unit 403c, an information acquisition unit 405, a drowsiness level acquisition unit 406c, a determination unit 407c, a calculation unit 408c, and a control unit 409. These components are realized by the CPU 14a executing the driving support program 140 stored in the ROM 14b, and a part or all of these components are configured to be realized by hardware such as an electronic circuit. You may do it.

  The input unit 403c inputs operation information indicating whether or not the operation button 203 of the steering unit 4 has been pressed.

  The sleepiness level acquisition unit 406c acquires the driver's sleepiness level based on the operation information input by the input unit 403c. The operation information is information indicating whether or not the operation button 203 that is pressed when the driver becomes sleepy has been pressed. For this reason, the sleepiness level acquisition unit 406c determines the sleepiness level of the driver based on the operation information. As a method for determining the sleepiness level by pressing the operation button 203, for example, the operation button 203 is provided with a “sleepy” button, and the sleepiness level acquisition unit 406 c determines the sleepiness level according to the type of the pressed button. Can be considered. For example, when the “sleepy” button is pressed, the sleepiness level 3 is determined. In the present embodiment, the buttons that can be pressed are not limited to “sleepy” buttons, and a plurality of types of buttons such as “sleepy” and “slightly sleepy” buttons may be provided. When “a little sleepy” is pressed, the sleepiness level acquisition unit 406c may determine that the sleepiness level is 2.

  FIG. 22 is a diagram illustrating a process management database 402c according to the fourth embodiment. As illustrated in FIG. 22, the process management database 402c stores a support level, an arousal stimulus, and a resting guide in association with each obesity level.

  The timing at which the wakefulness stimulus is applied is different from the first embodiment in the fourth embodiment. In the processing management database 402 according to the first embodiment, the timing when a predetermined drowsiness level is detected in the three-dimensional face model that is the tracking result of the driver's face, whereas in the example shown in FIG. There is a difference in timing when the operation button 203 is pressed. In other words, when the predetermined operation button 203 is pressed, the wakefulness stimulus is given when the drowsiness level 3 appears. In FIG. 22, when the timing is “applied at a specified time interval”, the awakening stimulus is applied at a specified time interval regardless of pressing of the operation button 203. In the example of FIG. 22, “given at specified time intervals” is set as a condition in which sleepiness level 2 is set as the determination threshold in the first embodiment.

  The determination unit 407c determines that the timing when the operation button 203 is pressed is that the sleepiness level is equal to or higher than the sleepiness level 3. In addition, the calculation unit 408c calculates a predicted effect disappearance time Tmax based on a time interval from when the determination unit 407c detects the determination threshold value (drowsiness level 3 or higher) last time to when the determination threshold value is detected this time. As a formula for calculating the predicted effect disappearance time Tmax, the same formula as in the first embodiment can be applied.

  Next, the driving assistance process in ECU14 of 4th Embodiment is demonstrated. FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing the operation of the ECU 14 as the driving support device of the fourth embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 23, the input unit 403c inputs weight information (S401). The information acquisition unit 405 acquires an obesity level based on the weight information (S402).

  Next, the control unit 409 performs initial setting of the support level (S403). As an initial setting, for example, support level 1 is set.

  Next, when the operation button 203 is pressed, the input unit 403c inputs operation information from the operation button 203 (S404). The operation information is acquired as sleepiness level 3 by the sleepiness level acquisition unit 406c. As a result, the determination unit 407c determines that the drowsiness level is 3 or more.

  Next, the determination unit 407c determines whether or not the “timing” determined by the obesity level and the support level is “applying a wake-up stimulus at a specified time interval” (S405). When it is determined that “timing” is not “applying a wake-up stimulus at specified time intervals” (S405: No), the stimulating unit 411 applies a wake-up stimulus determined by the obesity level and the support level to the driver (S406). ).

  On the other hand, when it is determined that “timing” is “applying a wake-up stimulus at a specified time interval” (S405: Yes), the stimulating unit 411 applies a wake-up stimulus to the driver at a specified time interval (S407).

  After the process of S406 or S407, the calculation unit 408 determines whether or not there is a time interval from when the drowsiness level equal to or higher than the determination threshold value is detected last time until the drowsiness level equal to or higher than the determination threshold value is detected this time. Determination is made (S408). When there is no time interval, in other words, when this is the first time that a drowsiness level equal to or greater than the determination threshold is detected (S408: No), the process is executed again from S404.

  On the other hand, when the calculation unit 408c determines that there is a time interval from when the drowsiness level equal to or higher than the determination threshold value is detected last time to when the drowsiness level equal to or higher than the determination threshold value is detected this time (S408: Yes), Based on the time interval, a predicted effect disappearance time is calculated (S409).

  Then, the control unit 409 sets a support level based on the calculated effect disappearance prediction time (S410).

  Then, the control unit 409 sets a determination threshold (timing for applying the arousal stimulus) and intensity associated with the obesity level and the support level in order to apply the arousal stimulus (S411).

  Furthermore, the guidance location specifying unit 412 calculates the distance that the vehicle 1 can move based on the predicted effect disappearance time, and specifies the rest location candidates that exist within the distance (S412).

  Then, the output control unit 413 outputs the specified rest place candidates to the display screen 8 and outputs a message corresponding to the obesity level and the support level (S413).

  Thereafter, the control unit 409 determines whether or not the support level has reached the maximum value (S414). When it is determined that the support level has not reached the maximum value (S414: No), the process is executed again from S404. On the other hand, when it is determined that the support level has reached the maximum value (S414: Yes), the stimulating unit 411 always gives a strong stimulus, and the output control unit 413 outputs a break warning message and controls as necessary. The unit 409 performs stop control of the vehicle 1 (S415).

  As described above, the drowsiness level can be acquired by various methods.

  In the fourth embodiment, the drowsiness level acquisition unit 406c acquires operation information indicating that the operation button 203 provided on the vehicle 1 is operated, and the calculation unit 408c calculates the time when the operation button 203 is operated. An estimated effect disappearance time is calculated based on the interval. Therefore, for example, by calculating the effect disappearance prediction time based on the driver's own operation, it is possible to improve the accuracy of the control based on the effect disappearance prediction time.

  In the above description, the case where the fourth embodiment is applied to the first embodiment has been described. The fourth embodiment can be applied to any of the first to third embodiments.

  Thus, as described in the first to fourth embodiments, in the ECU 14 as the driving support device of the embodiment, the information acquisition units 405, 405a, and 405b include information on the driver's body or the driver's body. Information regarding the quality of sleep while sleeping is acquired, and the drowsiness level acquisition units 406 and 406c acquire the drowsiness level of the driver. The calculation units 408 and 408c calculate an effect disappearance prediction time indicating a prediction time at which the sleepiness is not eliminated even when the driver is stimulated, based on an interval of time when the sleepiness level is equal to or higher than the determination threshold. The control unit 409 varies the control performed on the driver according to the information related to the driver's body or the information related to the sleep quality of the driver and the predicted loss of effect time. By varying the control according to the predicted effect disappearance time, the time until the effect of the control on the driver disappears can be extended. In addition, by changing the control according to information on the driver's body or information on the sleep quality of the driver's sleep, the driver can maintain an awake state even if the driver has difficulty in eliminating drowsiness. Can be made.

  In the description of the first to fourth embodiments, the driving support device has been described as being realized by the ECU 14. The driving assistance devices of the first to fourth embodiments may be realized by a computer different from the ECU 14. For example, the driver downloads the driving support program 140 in advance on a smartphone. Then, the driver connects the smartphone to the in-vehicle network 23, the stimulation device 310a, and the vibration device 310b wirelessly or by wire, and starts the driving support program 140 on the smartphone. The smartphone starts a function as a driving support device.

  As mentioned above, although embodiment of this invention was illustrated, the said embodiment and modification are examples to the last, Comprising: It is not intending limiting the range of invention. The above-described embodiments and modifications can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, replacements, combinations, and changes can be made without departing from the scope of the invention. In addition, the configuration and shape of each embodiment and each modification may be partially exchanged.

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Vehicle, 2 ... Vehicle body, 2a ... Cabin, 2b ... Seat, 2c ... Backrest part, 2d ... Pillow part, 3 ... Wheel, 3F ... Front wheel, 3R ... Rear wheel, 4 ... Steering part, 8 ... Display screen, DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 9 ... Audio | voice output apparatus, 10 ... Operation input part, 11 ... Monitor apparatus, 12 ... Dashboard, 13 ... Steering system, 13a ... Actuator, 13b ... Torque sensor, 14 ... ECU, 14a ... CPU, 14b ... ROM, 14c ... RAM, 14d ... display control unit, 14e ... audio control unit, 14f ... SSD, 16 ... GPS, 18 ... brake system, 18a ... actuator, 18b ... brake sensor, 19 ... rudder angle sensor, 20 ... accelerator sensor, 21 ... shift Sensor: 22 ... Wheel speed sensor, 23 ... In-vehicle network, 100 ... Driving support system, 140 ... Driving support program, 201 ... Imaging device, 202 ... C Dollar column, 203 ... operation button, 302 ... driver, 310a ... stimulator, 310b ... vibration device, 401 ... three-dimensional face model database, 402, 402a, 402b, 402c ... process management database, 403, 403a, 403b, 403c ... Input unit, 404 ... Verification unit, 405, 405a, 405b ... Information acquisition unit, 406,406c ... Drowsiness level acquisition unit, 407,407c ... Determination unit, 408,408c ... Calculation unit, 409 ... Control unit, 411 ... Stimulation , 412 ... Guidance location specifying part, 413 ... Output control part, 600 ... Monitoring system, 601 ... Detection device, 602 ... Analysis device, 610 ... Bed, 700 ... Information processing terminal, 801, 802 ... Distance, 901, 902 903: Time interval.

Claims (11)

A first acquisition unit for acquiring first information on a body of a driver driving a vehicle or second information on sleep quality of the driver sleeping;
A second acquisition unit for acquiring a degree of sleepiness of the driver while the driver is driving the vehicle;
Based on the interval of time when the degree of sleepiness acquired by the second acquisition unit is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold, predicted effect disappearance time indicating the predicted time when sleepiness is not eliminated even when the driver is stimulated A calculation unit for calculating
A control unit that varies the control performed on the driver according to the first information or the second information acquired by the first acquisition unit and the predicted loss of effect time calculated by the calculation unit;
A driving support apparatus comprising: The control performed on the driver is to apply vibration stimulation to the driver by a vibration device provided in a seat on which the driver is seated.
The driving support device according to claim 1. The first information is a degree of obesity of the driver,
The control unit sets the predetermined threshold value when the driver's obesity degree is a first degree, compared to when the driver's obesity degree is a second degree smaller than the first degree. Reduce or increase the intensity of the vibration stimulus,
The driving support device according to claim 2. The first information is information related to the age of the driver,
The control unit reduces the predetermined threshold when the driver's age is the first age, compared to when the driver's age is a second age younger than the first age, or Increasing the intensity of the vibration stimulus,
The driving support device according to claim 2. When the quality of sleep during sleeping of the driver is the first level, the control unit has a second level in which the quality of sleep during sleeping of the driver is better than the first level. Compared to the case, the predetermined threshold value is reduced or the intensity of the vibration stimulus is increased,
The driving support device according to claim 2. The control unit outputs a candidate for a resting place where the vehicle can stop within a range in which the vehicle can travel within the predicted loss of effect time calculated by the calculation unit.
The driving support device according to any one of claims 1 to 5. The second acquisition unit acquires the degree of sleepiness when the degree of sleepiness calculated from the image captured by the driver captured by the imaging device is greater than the predetermined threshold.
The driving support device according to any one of claims 1 to 5. The second acquisition unit acquires operation information indicating that a predetermined operation unit provided in the vehicle is operated,
The calculation unit calculates a predicted loss of effect time based on an interval of time when the operation unit is operated, which indicates a predicted time when sleepiness is not eliminated even when the driver is stimulated.
The driving support device according to any one of claims 1 to 5. The control unit varies the predetermined threshold according to the predicted effect disappearance time calculated by the calculation unit,
The driving support device according to any one of claims 1 to 8. Obtaining first information about a driver's body driving the vehicle or second information about sleep quality of the driver sleeping;
Obtaining a degree of sleepiness of the driver while the driver is driving the vehicle;
Based on an interval of time when the degree of sleepiness is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold, calculating an effect disappearance prediction time indicating a prediction time when sleepiness is not eliminated even when the driver is stimulated;
Differentiating the control performed on the driver in accordance with the first information or the second information and the effect disappearance prediction time;
Driving support method including. On the computer,
A function of acquiring first information related to a driver's body driving a vehicle or second information related to sleep quality of the driver sleeping;
A function of acquiring a degree of sleepiness of the driver while the driver is driving the vehicle;
Based on the time interval when the degree of sleepiness is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold, a function to calculate an effect disappearance prediction time indicating a prediction time when sleepiness is not eliminated even if the driver is stimulated;
A function of varying the control performed on the driver according to the first information or the second information and the effect disappearance prediction time;
Driving assistance program that realizes

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