ELECTRONIC VEHICLE RETROVISER SYSTEM

专利摘要:
The present invention relates to an electronic mirror system, if a photographed image of a right rear area photographed by a right camera is selected, a cutting area in the selected photographed image moves according to operation of the operation switch. . If a photographed image of a left rear area photographed by a left camera is selected, a cutting area in the selected photographed image moves according to operation of the operation switch. In a case in which the photographed images of the right and left cameras are selected, the cutting areas in the respective photographed images move according to operation of the operation switch. The cutting area in the photographed image of the right camera is displayed in a right screen, while the cutting area in the photographed image of the left camera is displayed on a left screen.
公开号:FR3038873A1
申请号:FR1656770
申请日:2016-07-13
公开日:2017-01-20
发明作者:Toshinari Nakai；Masaki Hayashi
申请人:Tokai Rika Co Ltd；
IPC主号:

专利说明:

VEHICLE ELECTRONIC MIRROR SYSTEM
CONTEXT
Technical area
The present disclosure relates to a vehicle electronic rearview mirror system that displays images of a right rear area and a left rear area of a vehicle in display means.
State of the art
Vehicles have certain blind spots for the driver in his surrounding area. A vehicle monitoring apparatus proposed in the state of the art includes cameras and a screen. The cameras photograph areas around the right front wheel and the left front wheel of the vehicle, which are blind spots of the driver. The screen displays the images photographed by the cameras so that the driver in the vehicle can view the images (see Japanese Patent Application pending (JP-A) No. 2003-95028, for example). JP-A No. 2003-95028 discloses a display area changing means that modifies at least one of the display areas in photographed images on the right side and the left side of the vehicle. The display area changing means in JP-A No. 2003-95028 can modify the display areas in the right-side and left-side images photographed of the vehicle, so as to prevent the right image and the left image displayed in the display means are misaligned with respect to each other.
Passenger cars and other vehicles are equipped with external mirrors, such as wing mirrors or door mirrors, which the driver uses to see what is behind and what is on both sides. Recently, a vehicle electronic rearview mirror system to be used in place of such external mirrors has been proposed. In this vehicle electronic rearview mirror system, photographic devices, such as cameras, photograph the rear area and side areas of the vehicle, and a screen installed inside the vehicle displays the photographed images (see Japanese Patent Application). pendante (JP-A) No. 2011-217318, for example).
The vehicle electronic rearview mirror system includes: cameras that photograph the right rear area and the left rear area of the vehicle; and a screen installed inside the vehicle that displays the images photographed by the cameras. The driver of the vehicle can view what is behind using the right rear image and the left rear image displayed on the screen. JP-A No. 2011-217318 proposes a technique for symmetrically extracting the characteristic points of the right rear image and the left rear image and for adjusting the right rear area and the left rear area displayed on the screen. such that the characteristic points in the right rear image and the characteristic points in the left rear image are symmetrically positioned. The technique proposed in JP-A No. 2011-217318 avoids that the images displayed on the screen are misaligned relative to each other or inclined, for example due to an error in fixing the cameras used to photograph a right rear zone and a left rear zone, so as to reduce the risk that the driver has the feeling that the images seem abnormal.
The orientations of the specular surfaces of door mirrors and other external mirrors installed in a vehicle may be adjusted according to the preference of the driver. In general, the driver adjusts the orientations of the mirror surfaces of the right door mirror and the left door mirror so that the desired areas can be viewed, for example by operating a remote control.
It is necessary that the vehicle's electronic rearview mirror system, which is used in place of door mirrors and other external mirrors, adjusts the right and left rear areas of the vehicle displayed on the screen, according to the driver's preferences. Unfortunately, the technique proposed in JP-A No. 2011-217318 is configured to adjust the right and left rearward regions to be symmetrically positioned and, therefore, have difficulty in differentially modifying the right and left rearward zones. left displayed on the screen. ABSTRACT
The present disclosure relates to a vehicle electronic rearview mirror system that is capable of individually and easily adjusting a right rear area and a left rear area of a vehicle displayed in a display means.
A first aspect of the present disclosure is a vehicle electronic rearview mirror system, comprising (1) a first photographing means that photographs a right rear area of a vehicle, (2) a second photographing medium that photographs a left rear area. of the vehicle, (3) display control means which causes a first display means to display a cutting area in a first image photographed by the first photographing means and which causes a second display means to display a cutting area in a second image photographed by the second photographing means, (4) selection means which is used to select at least one of the first image or the second image, (5) an operation switch which is used to move the cutting area in the first image and / or the cutting area in the second image in a vertical direction of the vehicle and / or in a horizontal direction of the vehicle, and (6) position adjustment means which (i) in a case where the first image or the second image is selected as the operational target for the operation switch by the selection means , adjusting a location of the cutting area in the selected image of the first image or the second image by moving the cutting area in the selected image according to operation of the operation switch, or (ii) in a case in which the first image and the second image are both selected, adjusts locations of the cutting areas in the selected images by moving the cutting areas in the selected images according to operation of the operation switch.
The vehicle electronic rearview mirror system of the present description is intended to be installed in a vehicle, in place of or in conjunction with its external rearview mirrors. The first display means displays the cutting area in the photographed image of the right rear area photographed by the first photographing means. The second display means displays the cutting area in the photographed image of the left rear area photographed by the second photographing means.
In a case in which the photographed image of the first photographing means is selected by the selecting means, the position adjusting means according to the first aspect moves the cutting area in the photographed image of the first photographing means into a horizontal direction (one direction of the width of the vehicle) and in a vertical direction (of the vehicle), depending on operation of the operating switch. Similarly, in a case where the photographed image of the second photographing means is selected by the selecting means, the position adjusting means moves the cutting area in the photographed image of the second photographing means into a horizontal direction and in a vertical direction, depending on actuation of the operating switch. In a case in which the photographed images of the first photographing means and the second photographing means are both selected, the position adjusting means moves the two cutting areas in the respective photographed selected images, depending on an actuation. of the operating switch.
The vehicle electronic rearview mirror system according to the first aspect is configured to independently adjust the cutting area in the photographed image of the right rear area that is displayed in the first display means and the cutting area in the photographed image. of the left rear area which is displayed in the second display means. In addition, in a case in which the photographed images of the first photographing means and the second photographing means are both selected, the position adjusting means parallelly adjusts the cutting area in the photographed image of the area. back right which is displayed in the first display means and the cutting area in the photographed image of the left rear area which is displayed in the second display means. In short, the vehicle electronic rearview mirror system easily adjusts the right rear area displayed in the first screen and the left rear area displayed in the second display means.
A second aspect of the present description is the vehicle electronic rearview mirror system according to the first aspect, wherein in a case in which the first image and the second image are both selected and the operation switch is operated so that the cutting areas move in the horizontal direction of the vehicle, the position adjusting means moves one of the cutting area in the first image or the cutting area in the second image in a direction in which the operating switch is actuated and moves the other of the cutting area in the first image or the cutting area in the second image in a direction opposite to the direction in which the operation switch is operated.
In the second aspect, in a case in which the position adjustment means moves the cutting area in the photographed image of the right rear area that is displayed in the first display means and the cutting area in the photographed image of the left rear area which is displayed in the second display means in a horizontal direction relative to the vehicle, according to operation of the operation switch, the position adjustment means moves a first of the cutting in a direction in which the operation switch is operated and a second of the cutting areas in a direction opposite to the direction in which the operation switch is actuated. In this manner, the position adjusting means moves in opposite internal or external directions with respect to the width of the vehicle, depending on actuation of the operating switch, so as to reduce the risk of the driver having the sensation that the images displayed in the first display means and in the second display means appear abnormal.
A third aspect of the present disclosure is a vehicle electronic rearview mirror system, comprising (1) a first photographing means that photographs a right rear area of a vehicle, (2) a second photographing medium that photographs a left rear area. of the vehicle, (3) display control means which causes a first display means to display a cutting area in a first image photographed by the first photographing means and which causes a second display means to display a cutting area in a second image photographed by the second photographing means, (4) selection means which is used to select at least one of the first image or the second image, (5) an operation switch which is used to move the cutting area in the first image and / or the cutting area in the second image in a vertical direction of the vehicle and / or in a horizontal direction of the vehicle, and (6) position adjustment means which, in a case in which one of the first image or the second image is selected as an operational target for the operating switch by the selection means and then the other of the first image or the second image is also selected, adjusts a location of the cutting area in the first selected image by moving the cutting area in the first selected image in accordance with a actuating the operation switch, and adjusting a location of the cutting area in the second selected image by moving the cutting area in the second selected image based on a direction of movement and an amount displaced from the cutting area in the first selected image.
In the third aspect, in a case where a first of the photographed images of the first photographing means and the second photographing means is selected as the operational target for the operation switch by the selecting means, the adjusting means of position adjusts a location of the cutting area in the selected photographed image by moving the cutting area in the selected photographed image according to operation of the operation switch. In addition, in a case where a first one of the photographed images of the first photographing means and the second photographing means is selected and then a second one of the photographed images of the first photographing means and the second photographing means is also selected, the position adjustment means adjusts a location of the cutting area in the second selected image by moving the cutting area in the second selected photographic image, based on a direction of movement and a displaced amount of the cutting area in the first selected image.
A fourth aspect of the present description is the vehicle electronic rearview mirror system according to the third aspect, wherein, in a case in which the operating switch is actuated so that the cutting areas move in a horizontal direction, the means position adjustment moves the cutting area in the first selected image in a direction in which the operation switch is operated and moves the cutting area in the second selected image in a direction opposite to the direction in which the cutting area in the first selected image is moved.
In the fourth aspect, the position adjusting means moves the cutting area in the first selected image in a horizontal direction of the vehicle according to operation of the operation switch, and then moves the cutting area in the second image. selected in a direction opposite to the direction in which the cutting area has been moved in the first selected image. In this way, the position adjustment means moves both cutting areas in the opposite internal or external directions with respect to the width of the vehicle as a function of operation of the operating switch, so as to reduce the risk. that the driver has the feeling that the images displayed in the first display means and in the second display means appear abnormal.
A fifth aspect of the present disclosure is the vehicle electronic rearview mirror system according to any of the first to fourth aspects, further comprising storage means which (i) in a case in which the first image is selected as a storage target by the selection means, stores location information on the cutting area in the first image as the first location information, and (ii) in a case in which the second image is selected as the first location information; that storage target by the selection means, stores location information on the cutting area in the second image as a second location information, wherein, in a case where the first image and the second image are both selected by the selection means and an instruction is given to adjust the locations of the cutting areas on the basis of the information stored location, the position adjustment means moves the cutting area in the first image based on the first location information and moves the cutting area in the second image based on the second location information.
In the fifth aspect, the storage means individually stores the location information (first location information and second location information) on the cutting area in the photographed image of the first photographing means and on the cutting area. in the photographed image of the second medium of photography. In addition, the display control means may cause the first display means and the second display means to display the corresponding cutting areas, based on the first location information and the second stored location information. .
A sixth aspect of the present disclosure is the vehicle electronic rearview mirror system according to any of the first to fifth aspects, further comprising a composite switch which comprises: the operation switch, a first selection switch disposed adjacent the operation switch as a selection means, the first selection switch being used to select the first image, and a second selection switch disposed as a selection means adjacent to the operation switch together with the first switch with the second selection switch being used to select the second image, and the second selection switch being used to select the first image and the second image being actuated together with an actuation of the first selection switch.
In the sixth aspect, the vehicle electronic rearview mirror system is equipped with the composite switch. In this composite switch, the first select switch and the second select switch are disposed adjacent to the select switch, such as a remote control for use in adjusting the angles of the mirror surfaces of external mirrors, for example. The composite switch allows the driver to adjust the rear area images of the vehicle displayed in the first display means and in the second display means through operations similar to those of setting angles of the specular surfaces. door mirrors and other external mirrors.
According to the present description, the electronic rearview mirror system easily adjusts a cutting area in a photographed image of a first photographing means which is displayed in a first display means and a cutting area in a photographed image of a second photographic medium. photograph which is displayed in a second display means, respectively.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
An exemplary embodiment of the present description is described in detail on the basis of the following figures, in which:
Figure 1 illustrates a schematic configuration of an electronic mirror system according to this embodiment;
Figure 2 is a schematic plan view of an exemplary vehicle equipped with the electronic mirror system;
Figure 3 is a schematic front view of an example of a front portion within the vehicle;
Figure 4 illustrates a switch arrangement in an exemplary control panel;
FIG. 5 illustrates an example of a table in which methods are associated with operating profiles of the selection switches;
Fig. 6 is a diagram of an exemplary method used to adjust cutting areas according to this embodiment;
Fig. 7A is a diagram of an exemplary method used to adjust cutting areas, more specifically a method associated with operating profile A;
Fig. 7B is a diagram of an exemplary method used to adjust cutting areas, more specifically a method associated with operating profile B;
Figure 8 schematically illustrates a cutting area in a photographed image, more specifically 8 (A) illustrating an example of a photographed image for a right camera and 8 (B) illustrating an example of a photographed image for a left camera;
Fig. 9A is a diagram of an exemplary method used to adjust cutting areas, more specifically a method associated with the operating profile C;
Fig. 9B is a diagram of an exemplary method used to adjust cutting areas, more specifically a method associated with the operating profile D;
Fig. 9C is a diagram of an exemplary method used to adjust cutting areas, more specifically a method associated with the operating profile H;
Fig. 10A is a diagram of an exemplary method used to adjust cutting areas, more specifically a method associated with the operating profile F;
Fig. 10B is a diagram of an exemplary method used to adjust cutting areas, more specifically a method associated with the operating profile G; and
Fig. 10C is a diagram of an exemplary method used to adjust cutting areas, more specifically a method associated with the operating profile E.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Some embodiments of the present disclosure are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Figure 1 illustrates a schematic configuration of a vehicle electronic rearview mirror system 10 (hereinafter abbreviated as "electronic mirror system 10") according to this embodiment. The electronic mirror system 10 includes a right rear camera 12R (abbreviated below as a "right camera 12R") and a left rear camera 12L (abbreviated below as a "left camera 12L"). The right camera 12R photographs a right rear area of a vehicle, and a left camera 12L photographs a left rear area of the vehicle. In addition, the electronic rearview mirror system 10 includes a right rear screen 14R (hereinafter abbreviated as a "right screen 14R"), a left rear screen 14L (abbreviated below as a "left screen 14L"), and an electronic control unit (ECCE) of mirror system 16. The right display 14R displays the image photographed by the right camera 12R, and the left screen 14L displays the image photographed by the left camera 12L.
In the electronic rearview mirror system 10, the right camera 12R, the left camera 12L, the right screen 14R, and the left screen 14L are all connected to the ECU of the mirror system 16. In this embodiment, the Right camera 12R is an example of the first means of photography. The left camera 12L is an example of a second medium of photography. The right display 14R functions as an example of first display means. The left screen 14L is an example of a second display means. In the following description, the right camera 12R and the left camera 12L are collectively called "cameras 12", and the right screen 14R and the left screen 14L are collectively called "screens 14". In the electronic rearview mirror system 10, each camera 12 can be implemented using a photographing means having a typical configuration. Examples of such photographic means include a Charged Coupled Device (CCD) and a CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semi Conductor) image sensor in the English language. . In addition, each screen 14 may be implemented using display means having a typical configuration. An example of such a display means includes a liquid crystal display (LCD, Liquid Crystal Display) and other display devices.
Figure 2 is a schematic plan view of a vehicle 18 according to this embodiment. For example, the vehicle 18 may include a driver's seat therein on the right side, that is to say it may have a right steering wheel. In the description below, the forward direction of the vehicle 18 along its longitudinal side is designated by a forward arrow, and the rear direction of the vehicle 18 is designated by a back arrow. The right direction of the vehicle 18 along its width is designated by a right arrow, and the left direction of the vehicle 18 is indicated by a left arrow. In the description below, the upward vertical direction is indicated by a up arrow, and the downward direction by a down arrow (see Figure 3).
In general, a vehicle is equipped with external mirrors, including door mirrors and wing mirrors, used by the driver to see what is behind. In place of or in conjunction with such external mirrors, the electronic mirror system 10 according to this embodiment can be installed in the vehicle 18. In this embodiment, the vehicle 18 is equipped with door mirrors 20 (rear-view mirror 20R right door and 20L left door mirror) as an example of external mirrors, and the electronic mirror system 10 is installed in the vehicle 18 equipped with the door mirror 20 as an example of the external mirrors. Alternatively, the vehicle 18 may be equipped with wing mirrors as another example of external mirrors, and the electronic mirror system 10 may be installed in the vehicle 18 in place of the external mirrors, including door mirrors. and wing mirrors.
For example, the right camera 12R in the electronic rearview mirror system 10 is attached to the outer end of the right door mirror 20R of the vehicle 18, while the left camera 12L is attached to the outer end of the left door mirror 20L. . The area (viewing angle) photographed by the right camera 12R and the left camera 12L in the electronic mirror system 10 contains the side surfaces of the vehicle 18 and the areas immediately below the outer side edges of the vehicle 18. Each of the cameras 12R right and 12L left camera creates a color image of the photographed area and then outputs an image signal representative of the created color image. In FIG. 2, the area photographed by the right camera 12R and the left camera 12L along the width of the vehicle 18 is designated by a long dotted line and two alternating short lines, and an example of an area displayed on the screen 14 is designated by hatched lines. The right camera 12R and the left camera 12L also cover a predetermined area extending from the top of the vehicle 18 to the road surface (not shown) in a vertical direction of the vehicle.
Figure 3 illustrates an example of a front portion of the interior of the vehicle 18. The vehicle 18 includes an instrument panel 22 in the front portion of its interior. In addition, the instrument panel 22 includes a meter panel 26 installed in front of the driver holding a steering wheel 24. In the meter panel 26, various counters (not shown), including a speedometer, may be provided. In this embodiment, by way of example, the screens 14 are installed in the instrument panel 22. For example, the right screen 14R is positioned in the area of the meter panel 26 while the left screen 14L is positioned in the left region of the meter panel 26. However, the positions of the right display 14R and the left display 14L are not limited to those presented in this embodiment. The right screen 14R and the left screen 14L can be positioned at arbitrary sites where the driver's field of vision is not impeded and the driver can naturally recognize the image displayed in the right screen 14R as being the image of the right rear area of the vehicle 18 and the image displayed in the left screen 14L as being the image of the left rear area of the vehicle 18. Referring again to FIG. 1, the ECU of the mirror system 16 comprises an image processor 30, cutting sections 32, and a display controller 34. The ECU of the mirror system 16 is provided with a microcomputer having a typical configuration in which a central unit , a read-only memory, a random access memory, and the other units are interconnected by bus bars, an I / O interface, a non-volatile memory medium, and various driver circuits (all not shown), for example. In the ECU of the mirror system 16, the central unit reads a program stored in the ROM, the non-volatile memory medium, or other storage units, then deploys this program in the RAM, and executes the program in the RAM. The central unit executes an image processing program so that the mirror system ECU 16 operates as an image processor 30; the central unit executes a cutting program so that the ECU of the mirror system 16 operates as cutting sections 32; the central unit executes a display program so that the mirror system ECU 16 operates as a display controller 34. In addition, the mirror system ECU 16 is provided with memory media non-volatile rewritable (referred to herein as "memories 36").
In the electronic rearview mirror system 10, the right camera 12R and the left camera 12L output image signals, which then enter the image processor 30. The image processor 30 subjects the images according to the signal signals. image from the right camera 12R and the left camera 12L to predetermined image processing, including tone correction, hue correction, luminance (intensity) correction, and halo correction. In addition, the image processor 30 in the electronic mirror system 10 performs a reflection process through which the photographed images are laterally reversed. In this way, the screens 14 in the image processor 30 can display images (mirror images), which are similar to images of areas behind the vehicle 18 reflected in the door mirrors 20. In the description made hereinafter , a photographed image will be a laterally inverted image, i.e., a mirror image.
As cutting sections 32, a cutting section 32R is disposed for an image photographed by the right camera 12R and a cutting section 32L is disposed for an image photographed by the left camera 12L. The photographed image of the right camera 12R undergoes image processing and then enters the cutting section 32R. The photographed image of the left camera 12L undergoes the image processing and then enters the cutting section 32L. In this embodiment, the cutting sections 32R and 32L operate as an example of position adjustment means. The photographed image of the right camera 12R functions as an example of a photographed image of the first photographing means, and the photographed image of the left camera 12L functions as an example of a photographed image of the second photographing means.
The cutting section 32R cuts an image area (hereinafter referred to as a "cutting area") to be displayed in the right screen 14R from the photographed image and outputs an image signal representative of the image. cutting area to the right screen 14R. Similarly, the cutting section 32L cuts a cutting area to be displayed in the left screen 14L and outputs an image signal representative of the cutting area to the left screen 14L. In this way, in the electronic rearview mirror system 10, the right screen 14R displays an image according to the photographed image of the right camera 12R, and the left screen 14L displays an image according to the photographed image of the the left camera 12L. In this embodiment, the cutting area cut by the cutting section 32R functions as an example of a cutting area in the photographed image of the first photographing means, and the cutting area cut by the cutting section 32L. operates as an example of a cutting area in the photographed image of the second photographing means.
As memories 36, a memory 36R is provided for the cutting area displayed in the right screen 14R, and a memory 36L is provided for the cutting area displayed in the left screen 14L. The memory 36R stores the information of the area containing, for example, the location and size of a predefined cutting area in the cutting section 32R. Similarly, the memory 36L stores the information of the area containing, for example, the location and size of a predefined cutting area in the cutting section 32L.
Figure 4 illustrates an example of a control panel 40 according to this embodiment. The control panel 40 is installed in the door armrest closest to the driver's seat, the instrument panel, or a center console, for example, at a predetermined site (not shown) where the driver can easily operate the driver's seat. control panel 40. In this embodiment, electrically foldable door mirrors are installed as an example of the door mirrors 20. The control panel 40 is used to fold / unfold the door mirrors 20 or adjust the angles of their specular surfaces. In the electronic rearview mirror system 10, as described in FIG. 1, the control panel 40 is connected to the ECU of the mirror system 16. In the electronic rearview mirror system 10, for example, the control panel 40 is used to adjust the images photographed by the cameras 12 to be displayed on the screens 14, i.e., the locations of cutting areas to be cut by the cutting section 32.
As shown in Fig. 4, the control panel 40 includes a change switch 42, a fallback switch 44, and a composite switch 46. The change switch 42 switches between the modes of the control panel 40 in which the mirror of gate 20 is actuated and in which the electronic mirror system 10 is actuated. More specifically, for example, in a case where "Mirror (the left side in FIG. 4)" of the modification switch 42 is depressed, the control panel 40 can be used as a remote control for the door mirrors 20. In a case in which "Screen (the right side in Figure 4)" of the change switch 42 is depressed, the control panel 40 can be used to control the electronic mirror system 10. In a case in which none of the mirrors of door 20 and other external mirrors is installed, it is not necessary that the modification switch 42 is arranged in the control panel 40.
Each of the fallback switch 44 and the composite switch 46 may utilize a typical configuration used for electrically collapsible door mirrors. For example, in a case in which "REAR (the lower part in FIG. 4)" of the folding switch 44 is depressed, the door mirrors 20R and 20L rotate in the folded position. In a case in which "FRONT (the upper part in FIG. 4)" of the folding switch 44 is depressed, the door mirrors 20R and 20L rotate in the unfolded (normal) position. By way of example, the composite switch 46 comprises: an operation switch 48 having a circular shape; a right select switch 50R disposed on the lower right side of the operation switch 48 (the lower right portion of Figure 4); and a left selection switch 50L disposed on the lower left side of the operation switch 48. The operation switch 48, the right selection switch 50R, and the left selection switch 50L are installed in one piece. In the description below, the right selection switch 50R and the left selection switch 50L will be collectively referred to as "selection switches 50".
In a case in which the right selection switch 50R is depressed, the right door mirror 20R of the door mirrors 20 is set to an operational target for the operation switch 48. In a case where the left selection switch 50L is pressed, the left-hand door mirror 20L is set to an operational target for the operation switch 48. In a case in which an upper portion 48U above the center of the operating switch 48 is depressed, the angle of the door mirror 20 is adjusted so that its specular surface is oriented upwards. In a case where a lower portion 48D above the center of the operating switch 48 is depressed, the angle of the door mirror 20 is adjusted so that its mirror surface is downwardly oriented. In a case in which a straight portion 48R on the right of the center of the operating switch 48 is depressed, the angle of the door mirror 20 is adjusted so that its specular surface is oriented to the right. In a case where a left portion 48L to the left of the center of the operation switch 48 is depressed, the angle of the door mirror 20 is adjusted so that its mirror surface is oriented to the left.
In the electronic rearview mirror system 10 illustrated in FIG. 1, in a case in which the modification switch 42 of the control panel 40 is switched to the operating mode for the electronic rearview mirror system 10, signals representative of the operational states of the The fallback switch 44 and the composite switch 46 enter the display controller 34 of the mirror system ECU 16. In accordance with the operations of the fallback switch 44 and the composite switch 46 (the operation switch 48 and the selection switches 50) in the electronic rearview mirror system 10, the locations of cutting areas in the photographed images displayed on the screens 14 are adjusted. In this embodiment, the composite switch 46 functions as an example of a composite switch. In this embodiment, the operation switch 48 functions as an example of an operation switch, and the right selection switch 50R and the left selection switch 50L function as an example of selection means. In this embodiment, the right selection switch 50R functions as an example of a first selection switch, and the left selection switch 50L functions as an example of a second selection switch. The display controller 34 according to this embodiment operates as an example of a display control means and a position adjustment means.
In this embodiment, by way of example, the selection switches 50 are actuated to determine which of the screens 14 (the right display 14R and the left display 14L) is selected as the setting target and which operation is to be performed. to be carried out. In this embodiment, the operation switch 48 is operated to set the locations of the cutting areas in the photographed images to be displayed on the screens 14.
Fig. 5 illustrates exemplary methods associated with the operations of the selection switches 50. The word "OFF" indicates that a selection switch 50 is not actuated. The term "short activation time" indicates that a selection switch 50 is depressed within a predefined period (for example, in two seconds). The term "long activation time" indicates that the selection switch 50 is depressed for the predefined period or longer (for example, for two seconds or more), or a said holding of the selection switch 50 is performed. In the description given below, the "short activation time" corresponds to a depressing operation, and the "long activation time" corresponds to a holding operation.
The operation profiles E and H in Fig. 5 are selected in response to the simultaneous activation ("short activation time" or "long activation time") of the right selection switch 50R and the left selection switch 50L. or in response to the activation ("short activation time" or "long activation time") of one of the right selection switch 50R and the left selection switch 50L and then the activation of the other .
In the operating profiles F and G, a location of a first one of the cutting zones is adjusted in response to the "short activation time" of one of the right selection switch 50R and the left selection switch 50L, and a displacement direction and a displaced amount of the first cutting area are stored. Then, in response to the "long activation time" of the other of the right selection switch 50R and the left selection switch 50L, a second of the cutting areas moves in the direction of movement and the displaced amount of the first cutting area.
Each of the selection switches 50 (left selection switch 50R and left selection switch 50L) may be equipped with an indicator having an LED. In a case in which the selection switch is pressed once, the indicator may be activated to emit light. In addition, in a case in which the selection switch in the Enabled state is depressed, the flag may be disabled to stop emitting light. In a case in which each selection switch 50 is equipped with an indicator, similar to that described above, the "short activation time" indicates that the selection switch 50 is depressed within a predefined period, and the long activation time "indicates that the selection switch 50 is depressed for the predefined period or longer. In the electronic rearview mirror system 10, the selection switches 50 may be equipped with indicators, or instead of having the indicators in the selection switches 50, the screens 14 may display operational states of the selection switches 50. a case in which the screens 14 display operational states of the selection switches 50, for example a selected screen 14 may display an icon which indicates that a corresponding screen 14 is selected, depending on an actuation of the selection switches 50. Alternatively, the screens 14 may use a given display mode. For example, the peripheral regions of the screens 14 may be displayed with a predetermined color.
Methods of adjusting the cutting areas according to the operating profiles in Fig. 5, which produce effects of this embodiment, are described below with reference to Figs. 6 to 10. It should be noted that the methods Figures 6 to 10 are examples and, therefore, are not intended to limit the operations of the electronic mirror system 10 according to this embodiment.
The electronic rearview mirror system 10 is activated at a predetermined time, for example when the electronic rearview mirror system 10 detects the entry of the driver into the vehicle 18 or activation of the starter by the driver. In addition, the electronic rearview mirror system 10 deactivates at a predetermined time, for example when the driver deactivates the starter, when a predetermined time has elapsed since the deactivation of the starter, or when the driver leaves the vehicle 18.
In a case where the vehicle 18 is equipped with a keyless entry system in which the doors are locked or unlocked using a wireless key (portable machine), such as a smart key (product name), or another similar system, the electronic mirror system 10 may activate or deactivate together with the operation of the keyless entry system. The keyless entry system locks or unlocks the doors using the wireless key (portable machine), such as the Intelligent Key (product name). In a case where the vehicle 18 is equipped with the keyless entry system, the electronic mirror system 10 may at least turn off in conjunction with the locking of the doors with the wireless key. More specifically, the electronic rearview mirror system 10 can be activated jointly by the unlocking of the doors and can be deactivated together with the locking of the doors.
When it is put into operation, the electronic rearview mirror system 10 cuts predetermined areas (cutting zones) from images (photographed images) photographed by the cameras 12, and then causes the screens 14 to display the cutting zones obtained. . In addition, the electronic rearview mirror system 10 adjusts locations of the cutting areas displayed on the screens 14 by moving the cutting areas in the photographed images. During deactivation, the electronic rearview mirror system 10 stores the cutting zones displayed on the screens 14. Then, during a new start, the electronic rearview mirror system 10 causes the screens 14 to display the cutting zones that have been cut. stored during the previous deactivation.
Fig. 6 is a diagram of an exemplary method for adjusting cutting areas. The electronic rearview mirror system 10 starts the process of adjusting the cutting areas, for example after the operation of the changeover switch 42 in the control panel 40 so that the control panel 40 is switched to a mode of operation for the electronic rearview mirror system 10. The electronic rearview mirror system 10 terminates the process of adjusting the cutting areas at a predetermined time, for example after setting the changeover switch 42 to an operating mode for the door mirrors 20 or after the electronic mirror system 10 has completed its operation. In step 100, which is the first step of the method in Fig. 6, the mirror system ECU 16 checks whether at least one of the selection switches 50 of the control panel 40 is actuated. In a case in which at least one of the selection switches 50 is actuated, i.e., in a case in which the indicator (not shown) disposed in at least one of the selection switches 50 emits light , the mirror system ECU 16 makes a positive determination in step 100, and then causes the method to proceed to step 102. In step 102, the ECU of the mirror system 16 identifies which profile of operation was selected with the selector switch 50 actuated, more specifically which of the operating profiles A to H illustrated in Figure 5 was formed by the operations.
In Fig. 6, in a case in which the left selection switch 50L is not actuated and the right selection switch 50R is depressed (short activation time), the mirror system ECU 16 determines that the operations constituting the operating profile A are performed, and then makes a positive determination in step 104. In a case in which the right selection switch 50R is not actuated and the left selection switch 50L is depressed, the ECU of mirror system 16 determines that the operations constituting the operating profile B are performed, and then performs a positive determination in step 106. In this embodiment, the operations constituting the operating profile A are an example of operation. selecting the photographed image of the first medium of photography. The operations constituting the operating profile B are an example of operation for selecting the photographed image of the second photography means.
Fig. 7A shows an exemplary method associated with the operating profile A; Figure 7B shows an exemplary method associated with operating profile B. In Figure 7A and Figure 7B, since similar methods are applied to different operational targets, the same step numbers are assigned to the same process steps.
The process steps in Fig. 7A are conducted in response to the positive determination that was made in step 104 in Fig. 6. In step 120, the ECU of the mirror system 16 defines the photographed image of the right camera 12R, which is the image displayed in the right screen 14R, on a setting target. As a result, the cutting area in the photographed image of the right camera 12R is adjustable. More specifically, the ECU of the mirror system 16 adjusts the photographed image of the right camera 12R to a setting target, and defines a location of the cutting area displayed in the right screen 14R in an adjustable state. Next, in step 122, the ECU of the mirror system 16 checks whether the operation switch 48 in the control panel 40 is actuated. In a case in which the operation switch 48 is actuated, the ECU of the mirror system 16 makes a positive determination in step 122, and causes the process to proceed to step 124. In step 124, the ECU of the mirror system 16 moves the cutting area in the photographed image of the right camera 12R in the vertical directions and in the horizontal directions, depending on the operation of the operation switch 48. In step 126, the mirror system ECU 16 checks whether the fallback switch 44 in the control panel 40 is actuated. In a case where the fallback switch 44 is actuated, the mirror system ECU 16 makes a positive determination at step 126, and then causes the process to proceed to step 128. For example, the electronic rearview mirror system 10 uses the foldback switch 44 as a zoom switch to vary the ranges of the cutting areas. In step 128, the mirror system ECU 16 varies a range of the cutting area in the photographed image of the right camera 12R as a function of the operation of the fallback switch 44. In a case where none of the door mirrors 20 and other external mirrors is provided, the foldback switch 44 may be exclusively used as a zoom switch.
The process steps in Fig. 7B are conducted in response to the positive determination that was made in step 106 in Fig. 6. In step 134, the mirror system ECU 16 defines the photographed image of the left camera 12L, which is the image displayed in the left screen 14L, on a setting target. As a result, the cutting area in the photographed image of the left camera 12L is adjustable. Then, in a case in which the operation switch 48 is actuated, the mirror system ECU 16 makes a positive determination at step 122, and then causes the process to proceed to step 124. At step 124, the mirror system ECU 16 moves the cutting area in the photographed image of the left camera 12L in the vertical directions and in the horizontal directions as a function of the operation of the operation switch 48. At the step 126, the ECU of the mirror system 16 checks whether the fold switch 44 in the control panel 40 is actuated. In a case in which the fallback switch 44 is actuated, the ECU of the mirror system 16 makes a positive determination in step 126, and then causes the process to proceed to step 128. In step 128, the mirror system ECU 16 varies a range of the cutting area in the photographed image of the left camera 12L as a function of the actuation of the fallback switch 44.
In Fig. 7A and Fig. 7B, the ECU of the mirror system 16 checks whether the selection switch 50 is further actuated in step 130 and then verifies whether to terminate the process at step 132. In a case in which the selection switch 50 is actuated again, the ECU of the mirror system 16 makes a positive determination in step 130. In a case in which neither the fold switch 44 nor the operation switch 48 is also actuated for a predetermined period or in which the modification switch 42 in the control panel 40 is actuated, for example, the ECU of the mirror system 16 makes a positive determination in step 132, and then terminates the method of adjusting cutting areas.
In Fig. 7A, in a case where the ECU of the mirror system 16 makes a positive determination in step 130, the ECU of the mirror system 16 causes the process to proceed to step 133. Next, The ECU of the mirror system 16 verifies whether the operation of the selection switch 50 is a holding operation (long activation time) of the left selection switch 50L. In a case in which the operation of the selection switch 50 is not a holding operation of the left selection switch 50L, the ECU of the mirror system 16 causes the process to proceed to step 102 in FIG. 6. In Fig. 7B, in a case in which the ECU of the mirror system 16 makes a positive determination in step 130, the ECU of the mirror system 16 causes the process to proceed to step 135. Next, The ECU of the mirror system 16 verifies whether the operation of the selection switch 50 is a holding operation (long activation time) of the right selection switch 50R. In a case in which the operation of the selection switch 50 is not a holding operation of the right selection switch 50R, the ECU of the mirror system 16 causes the process to proceed to step 102 in FIG. .
In Fig. 7A, in a case in which the actuation of a selection switch 50 is a holding operation of the left selection switch 50L (long activation time), the ECU of the mirror system 16 determines that the operations constituting the operating profile G are performed. Next, the ECU of the mirror system 16 makes a positive determination in step 133, and then performs an adjustment for the method associated with the operating profile G. In FIG. 7B, in a case in which the actuation of the switch 50 is a holding operation of the right selection switch 50R (long activation time), the ECU of the mirror system 16 determines that the operations constituting the operating profile F are performed. Then, the ECU of the mirror system 16 makes a positive determination in step 135, and then performs an adjustment for the operating profile method F. The method associated with the operating profile F and the method associated with the operating profile G are described below.
Figure 8 illustrates examples of cutting areas 62 of photographed images 60 of the cameras 12; the cutting areas 62 correspond to images displayed on the screens 14. More specifically, Fig. 8 (A) illustrates a photographed image 60R of the right camera 12R and a cutting area 62R displayed in the right screen 14R. Fig. 8 (B) illustrates a photographed image 60L of the left camera 12L and a cutting area 62L displayed in the left screen 14L. For example, the shape factor of the cutting areas 62 is defined to coincide with the screen form factor 14. In the following description, the photographed images 60R and 60L are collectively referred to as "photographed images 60 ". The cutting areas 62R and 62L are collectively referred to as "cutting areas 62".
In the electronic rearview mirror system 10 according to this embodiment, by way of example, the photographed image 60R of the right camera 12R and the photographed image 60L of the left camera 12L are placed symmetrically with respect to the line In other words, the right camera 12R and the left camera 12L are fixed so that the resulting photographed images 60R and 60L are placed symmetrically with respect to the center line of the vehicle 18. along its width.
As described in FIG. 8, the origins Gold and Ol are defined so that the photographed images 60R and 60L are placed symmetrically with respect to the vehicle 18. The origins Gold and Ol can be positioned at any given point as long as the 60R and 60L photographic images are placed symmetrically with respect to the vehicle 18. For example, the origins Gold and Ol may be characteristic points of the vehicle body 18 which are symmetrical with respect to each other. In this embodiment, by way of example, the center point of the photographed image 60R is placed at the origin Gold, and the central point of the photographed image 60L is placed at the origin.
In the photographed image 60R, a vertical axis Yr and a horizontal axis Xr are defined as coordinate axes that intersect at the origin Gold. In the photographed image 60L, a vertical axis YL and a horizontal axis XL are defined as coordinate axes that originally intersect with the Ol- The vertical axes Yr and Yl extend in a vertical direction (a vertical direction of the vehicle 18), while the horizontal axes Xr and XL are extend in a horizontal direction (a direction of the width of the vehicle 18). It should be noted that none of the origins Gold and Ol, the vertical axes YR and YL, and the horizontal axes Xr and Xl are displayed on the screens 14 (right screen 14R and left screen 14L).
As depicted in Fig. 8 (A), a location of the cutting area 62R in the photographed image 60R is expressed by, for example, the coordinates (X, Y) of its central location Cr, which is specified by the axes of coordinates defined in the photographed image 60R. As depicted in Fig. 8 (B), a location of the cutting area 62L in the photographed image 60L is expressed by, for example, the coordinates (X, Y) of its central location C1, which is specified by the axes of coordinates defined in the photographed image 60L. As described in FIG. 8, in this embodiment, by way of example, the negative side (-Xr) of the horizontal axis Xr with respect to the origin Gold and the negative side (-Xl) of the horizontal axis Xl with respect to the origin Ol are defined on the side of the vehicle 18. In summary, the central location Cr of the cutting area 62R and the central location Cl of the cutting area 62L are expressed in the same coordinate system (X, Y), and the cutting areas 62R and 62L are symmetrically positioned relative to the vehicle 18.
In a case where the upper portion 48U of the operation switch 48 is depressed, a corresponding cutting area 62 moves upwardly. Accordingly, as described in Fig. 8 (A), a cutting area 62Ru that has moved up in the photographed image 60R becomes a new cutting area 62R, or a cutting area displayed in a corresponding screen 14. As depicted in Fig. 8 (B), a cutting area 62Lu that has moved up in the photographed image 60L becomes a new cutting area 62L. In a case where the lower portion 48D of the operation switch 48 is depressed, a corresponding cutting area 62 moves downwardly. Accordingly, as depicted in Fig. 8 (A), the cutting area 62Rd that has moved down into the photographed image 60R becomes a new cutting area 62R. As depicted in Fig. 8 (B), a cutting area 62LD that has moved down into the photographed image 60L becomes a new cutting area 62L.
In a case where the right portion 48R of the operation switch 48 is depressed, a corresponding cutting area 62 moves to the right. Accordingly, as depicted in Fig. 8 (A), a cutting area 62Rr which has moved to the right in the photographed image 60R becomes a new cutting area 62R. As depicted in Fig. 8 (B), a cutting area 62Lr which has moved to the right in the photographed image 60L becomes a new cutting area 62L. In a case in which the left portion 48L of the operation switch 48 is depressed, a corresponding cutting area 62 moves to the left. Accordingly, as described in Fig. 8 (A), a cutting area 62R1 which has moved to the left in the photographed image 60R becomes a new cutting area 62R. As depicted in Fig. 8 (B), a cutting area 62L1 which has moved to the left in the photographed image 60L becomes a new cutting area 62L.
As a displaced amount of each cutting area 62, a first displaced amount and a second displaced amount are predefined. The first displaced amount is an amount from which each cutting area 62 moves when the operation switch 48 is depressed once. The second displaced amount is a quantity per unit of time from which each cutting area 62 moves when the operation switch 48 is depressed continuously. Each cutting area 62 thus moves as a function of the number of times the operation switch 48 is depressed or depending on the length of time the operation switch 48 is depressed continuously.
In the electronic rearview mirror system 10, the cutting area 62R that has moved as a function of operation of the operation switch 48 is cut from the photographed image 60R and displayed in the right display 14R. Similarly, the cutting area 62L is cut from the photographed image 60L and displayed in the left screen 14L.
In this embodiment, by way of example, in a case in which the top portion (Zoom In) of the fold switch 44 is depressed, the range of a corresponding cutting area 62 decreases (not shown). In a case in which the lower part (Back Zoom) of the foldback switch 44 is depressed, the range of a corresponding cutting area 62 increases (not shown). If the cutting area 62 is zoomed forward, the image of the cutting area 62 with its reduced range is displayed in a corresponding screen 14. If the cutting area 62 is zoomed back, the image of the cutting area 62 with this increased range is displayed in a corresponding screen 14. In this embodiment, as the ratio at which the range of each cutting area 62 varies, a first ratio and a second ratio are predefined. The first report is a ratio at which the range of each cutting area 62 varies when the operation switch 48 is depressed once. The second ratio is a ratio per time unit at which the range of each cutting area 62 varies as the operation switch 48 is depressed continuously. Each cutting area 62 is thus zoomed forward or zoomed back depending on the number of times the operation switch 48 is depressed or depending on the length of time the operation switch 48 is depressed continuously. .
In the case in which the images displayed in the right screen 14R and in the left screen 14L have different ranges, that is to say, different scales, the driver can lose the feeling of perspective. For this reason, in a case in which one of the cutting areas 62 is zoomed forward or zoomed back (the fold switch 44 is operated) during each of the processes associated with the operating profiles A and B, the The ranges of the two cutting areas 62R and 62L preferably vary simultaneously. More specifically, in a case in which steps 126 and 128 in one of the methods of Fig. 7A and Fig. 7B are performed, steps 126 and 128 in the other of Fig. 7A and Fig. 7B may also be performed. In this way, the ranges of the images displayed in the right screen 14R and in the left screen 14L always vary in a synchronized manner, so as to allow the driver to maintain an appropriate perspective feeling. In step 124 in Fig. 7A and Fig. 7B, the ECU of the mirror system 16 stores as a starting point the location of the cutting area 62 at the time at which a corresponding selection switch 50 is actuated. When the cutting area 62 moves as a function of operation of the operation switch 48 in step 124, the ECU of the mirror system 16 retains the location of the displaced cutting area 62 as the moved point. . Next, the ECU of the mirror system 16 determines a direction of movement and the amount displaced from the cutting area 62 relative to the starting point. Whenever the operation switch 48 is operated at step 124, the mirror system ECU 16 updates the moved point. In this manner, the mirror system ECU 16 determines a direction of movement from the start point to the moved point and an amount displaced therebetween. In a case in which the operation switch 48 has not been actuated for a predetermined period at step 124, when the mirror system ECU 16 terminates the process associated with the operating profile A or B or when selection switches 50 is actuated, the mirror system ECU 16 retains a displaced point of a corresponding cutting area 62 as an end point. In this way, the electronic mirror system 10 is configured to obtain displacement directions and displaced amounts of cutting areas as a function of the actuations of the selection switches 50.
In Fig. 6, in a case in which the left selection switch 50L is not actuated and the right selection switch 50R is held down (long activation time), the ECU of the mirror system 16 determines that the operations constituting the operating profile C are performed, and then makes a positive determination in step 108. In a case in which the right selection switch 50R is not actuated and the left selection switch 50L is held down (time long activation), the ECU of the mirror system 16 determines that the operations constituting the operating profile D are performed, and then makes a positive determination in step 110. In a case in which the right selection switch 50R and the left selection switch 50L are both held down (long activation time), the rearview mirror system ECU 16 determines that the ops rations constituting the operating profile H are performed, and then makes a positive determination in step 114. In this embodiment, the operations associated with the operating profiles C and D are an example of a selection operation of one of the photographed images of the first photographing medium and the second photographing medium, as a target whose location information on a cutting area is stored. In this embodiment, the operations constituting the operating profile H function as an exemplary instruction for adjusting a location of a cutting area based on the stored location information.
Fig. 9A is a diagram of an exemplary method associated with the operating profile C; Fig. 9B is a diagram of an exemplary method associated with the operating profile D; FIG. 9C is a diagram of an exemplary method associated with the operating profile H.
The method in Fig. 9A is conducted in response to the positive determination that was made in step 108 in Fig. 6. In step 136, the mirror system ECU 16 defines the cutting area 62R in the mirror. photographed image 60R displayed in the right screen 14R on a target. Next, in step 138, the ECU of the mirror system 16 stores the area information on the targeted cutting area 62R which contains a cutting location and a cutting size in the memory 36R. The method in Fig. 9B is conducted in response to the positive determination that was made in step 110 in Fig. 6. In step 140, the ECU of the mirror system 16 defines the cutting area 62L in the photographed image 60L displayed in the left screen 14L on a target. Next, in step 142, the ECU of the mirror system 16 stores area information on the targeted cut area 62L which contains a cut location and a cut size in the memory 36L. In this embodiment, the location of the cut area 62R that is contained in the area information stored in the 36R memory functions as an example of first location information. In this embodiment, the location of the cut area 62L that is contained in the area information stored in the 36L memory functions as an example of second location information.
The method in Fig. 9C is conducted in response to the positive determination that was made in step 114 in Fig. 6. In step 144, the ECU of the mirror system 16 reads the area information stored in the 36R memory. Then, in step 146, the ECU of the mirror system 16 determines a location and size of the cutting area 62R in the photographed image 60R, based on the read area information, and moves the cutting area 62R at the determined location. In step 148, the ECU of the mirror system 16 reads the zone information stored in the memory 36L. Then, in step 150, the ECU of the mirror system 16 determines a location and size of the cutting area 62L in the photographed image 60L, based on the read area information, and moves the cutting area. 62L at the determined location.
As described above, as a result of conducting the operations constituting the operating profile C by means of the selection switches 50, the electronic rearview mirror system 10 can store zone information in the memory 36R which is intended to be used for specify the cutting area 62R in the right display 14R. In this case, the cutting area 62R has been adjusted in accordance with the preferences of the driver, for example via the operating switch 48 in the control panel 40. Similarly, as a consequence of conducting the operations constituting the profile With the aid of the selection switches 50, the electronic mirror system 10 can store area information in the memory 36L which is to be used to specify the cutting area 62L in the left screen 14L. In this case, the cutting area 62L has been adjusted in accordance with the preferences of the driver, for example through the operation switch 48 in the control panel 40. In addition, as a consequence of the operation of the operations constituting the profile of operation using the selection switches 50, the electronic rearview mirror system 10 can display the cutting area 62R in the right screen 14R and the cutting area 62L in the left screen 14L according to the area information stored in the memories 36R and 36L. In Fig. 9A, Fig. 9B, and Fig. 9C, in a case in which the selection switch 50 is also actuated, the ECU of the mirror system 16 makes a positive determination in step 130 and then brings the method proceed to step 102 in Fig. 6. In a case where the ECU of the mirror system 16 determines that the operation is complete, the ECU of the mirror system 16 makes a positive determination at step 132 , and then finish the process.
In Fig. 6, in a case in which the operation of the selection switch 50 is a depressing operation of both the right selection switch 50R and the left selection switch 50L (short activation time), the ECU of the mirror system 16 determines that the operations constituting the operating profile E are performed and then makes a positive determination in step 112. In FIG. 7A, in a case in which the operation of the selection switch 50 is a maintaining operation of the left selection switch 50L, the ECU of the mirror system 16 determines that the operations constituting the operating profile G are performed and then makes a positive determination in step 133. In FIG. 7B, in one case wherein the actuation of the selection switch 50 is a holding operation of the right selection switch 50R, the ECU of the mirror system 16 determines that the operations constituting the operating profile H are performed and then makes a positive determination in step 135.
In this embodiment, the operations constituting the operating profile E function as an exemplary operation of selecting the photographed images of the first photographing means and the second photographing means. In this embodiment, each of the operations associated with the operation profiles F and G functions as an exemplary operation of selecting the remaining one of the photographed images of the first photographing means and the second photographing means while maintaining the selection. one of the photographed images of the first medium of photography and the second medium of photography. The operating profiles E and H are applicable, for example in a case in which the selection switches 50 are actuated while no priority is given to the right selection switch 50R or the left selection switch 50L. The operating profiles F and G are applicable, for example in a case in which the selection switches 50 are actuated while a priority is given to one of the right selection switch 50R and the left selection switch 50L. The operating profiles F and G may be applicable in a case where one of the right selection switch 50R and the left selection switch 50L is in an On state. For example, the operating profiles F and G are also applicable in a case in which, before the operation switch 48 is actuated, the other one of the right selection switch 50R and the left selection switch 50L is actuated (by Example, held down in this embodiment by way of example) while one of the right selection switch 50R and the left selection switch 50L is in an On state.
Fig. 10A illustrates an exemplary method associated with the operating profile F; FIG. 10B illustrates an exemplary method associated with the operating profile G; FIG. 10C illustrates an exemplary method associated with the operating profile E.
The process in Fig. 10A is conducted in response to the positive determination that was made at step 135 in Fig. 7B. In step 152, the mirror system ECU 16 reads the start point and the end point of the cutting area 62L in the photographed image 60L, which have been retained for the left screen 14L. Then, in step 154, the ECU of the mirror system 16 determines a direction of movement and a displaced amount of the cutting area 62L, based on the start point and end point read, and moves the area of cut 62R in the photographed image 60R in accordance with the direction of displacement and the displaced amount determined. The method in Fig. 10B is conducted in response to the positive determination that was made at step 133 in Fig. 7B. In step 156, the ECU of the mirror system 16 reads the start point and the end point of the cutting area 62R in the photographed image 60R, which have been retained for the right screen 14R. Then, at step 158, the ECU of the mirror system 16 determines a direction of movement and a displaced amount of the cutting area 62R, based on the start point and end point read, and moves the area of 62L cut in the photographed image 60L according to the direction of displacement and the displaced amount determined.
In the electronic rearview mirror system 10 used in this embodiment, by way of example, the coordinate axes are defined in each of the photographed images 60R and 60L so that the photographed images 60R and 60L are symmetrical relative to each other. to the other relative to the center line of the vehicle 18 (vehicle body). In addition, the locations of the cutting areas 62 are defined using these coordinate axes. During the process associated with the operating profile G, when the cutting area 62R moves to the right, for example, the cutting area 62L also moves to the right. During the process associated with the operating profile F, when the cutting area 62L moves to the left, for example, the cutting area 62R also moves to the left. In summary, the electronic rearview mirror system 10 performs the methods associated with the operating profiles F and G so that when one of the cutting areas 62R and 62L moves during the process associated with the operating profile A or B, the other cutting areas 62R and 62L also moves in accordance with the direction and the displaced amount of the first.
The method in Fig. 10C is performed in response to the positive determination that was made in step 112 in Fig. 6. In step 160, the ECU of the mirror system 16 defines both the cutting area. 62R in the photographed image 60R displayed in the right screen 14R and the cutting area 62L in the photographed image 60L displayed in the left screen 14L to adjustment targets. Then, in step 162, the ECU of the mirror system 16 checks whether the operation switch 48 in the control panel 40 is actuated. In a case in which the operation switch 48 is actuated, the ECU of the mirror system 16 makes a positive determination in step 162, and then causes the process to proceed to step 164. In step 164, the ECU of the mirror system 16 moves the cutting area 62R in parallel in the photographed image 60R displayed in the right screen 14R and the cutting area 62L in the photographed image 60L displayed in the left screen 14L in according to the actuation of the operation switch 48. In step 166, the ECU of the mirror system 16 checks whether the fold switch 44 in the control panel 40 is actuated. In a case in which the folding switch 44 is actuated, the ECU of the mirror system 16 makes a positive determination in step 166, and then causes the process to proceed to step 168. In step 168, the ECU of the mirror system 16 simultaneously varies the ranges of the cutting area 62R in the photographed image 60R and the cutting area 62L in the photographed image 60L as a function of the actuation of the folding switch 44. On FIG. 10A, FIG. 10B, and FIG. 10C, in a case in which the selection switches 50 are also actuated, the ECU of the mirror system 16 makes a positive determination in step 130, and then brings the method proceed to step 102 in Fig. 6. In a case where the ECU of the mirror system 16 determines that the operation is complete, the ECU of the mirror system 16 makes a positive determination at the same time. step 132, and then ends the process.
In this embodiment, in a case in which the upper portion 48U of the operating switch 48 is depressed during the method associated with the operating profile E, the ECU of the mirror system 16 moves upwards both the cut 62R in the photographed image 60R and the cutting area 62L in the photographed image 60L. In a case in which the lower part 48D of the operating switch 48 is depressed, the ECU of the mirror system 16 moves down both the cutting area 62R in the photographed image 60R and the cutting area 62L in the photographed image 60L.
In a case in which the right cutting area 62R and the left cutting area 62L move parallel in the horizontal directions (in the width directions of the vehicle 18) in the electronic mirror system 10, as the for example, one of the cutting areas 62R and 62L moving in one direction is defined as a reference, and the other is moving in the opposite direction. In this embodiment, by way of example, the cutting area 62R displayed in the right screen 14R which is positioned closest to the driver's seat is defined as a reference. Then, the cutting area 62R moves in one direction as a function of the operation of the operation switch 48, while the cutting area 62L moves in the opposite direction to the cutting area 62R.
In a case in which the right portion 48R of the operation switch 48 is depressed during the method associated with the operating profile E, the cutting area 62R moves to the right in the photographed image 60R, while the cutting area 62L in the photographed image 60L moves to the left in the photographed image 60L. In a case in which the left portion 48L of the operation switch 48 is depressed during the method associated with the operating profile E, the cutting area 62R in the photographed image 60R moves to the left, while the cutting area 62L in the photographed image 60L moves to the right. In summary, in the electronic rearview mirror system 10, the cutting area 62R displayed in the right screen 14R and the cutting area 62L displayed in the left screen 14L move in parallel in the opposite internal directions with respect to the width of the vehicle 18 or in opposite external directions relative to the width of the vehicle 18.
As described above, the electronic mirror system 10 subjects the cutting area 62R displayed in the right screen 14R and the cutting area 62L displayed in the left screen 14L to a process according to a combination of operations (a method associated with an operating profile) of the right selection switch 50R and the left selection switch 50L. In which case the electronic rearview mirror system 10 applies a method to the two cutting areas 62R and 62L in the same manner, in response to driving the operations constituting the operating profile F or G. The electronic rearview mirror system 10 can thus easily adjust locations at which the cutting areas 62 (62R and 62L) are displayed in the right display 14R and in the left display 14L.
The electronic rearview mirror system 10 may independently adjust the cutting area 62R displayed in the right screen 14R and the cutting area 62L displayed in the left screen 14L in response to the operation of the operations constituting the operating profile A or B. In other words, the electronic rearview mirror system 10 can adjust the cutting area 62R displayed in the right screen 14R and the cutting area 62L displayed in the left screen 14L according to the preferences of the driver, for example, without maintaining the symmetry of the cutting areas 62R and 62L.
The electronic rearview mirror system 10 stores zone information on the cutting area 62R displayed in the right display 14R in the memory 36R, in response to the execution of the operations constituting the operating profile C. Similarly, the system of electronic rearview mirror 10 stores zone information on the cutting area 62L displayed in the left screen 14L in the memory 36L, in response to the execution of the operations constituting the operating profile D. In addition, the electronic rearview mirror system 10 defines the cutting area 62R displayed in the right display 14R based on the area information stored in the memory 36R and defines the cutting area 62L displayed in the left screen 14L based on the area information stored in the display. memory 36L, in response to the execution of the operations constituting the operating profile H.
In a case in which a first conductor in the vehicle 18 is temporarily replaced by a second conductor, the electronic rearview mirror system 10 can store the cutting area 62R defined by the first conductor in the memory 36R and can store the cutting area 62L defined by the first conductor in the memory 36L. Then, in a case in which the first driver drives the vehicle 18 again in place of the second conductor, the first driver can easily find the cutting area 62R displayed in the right display 14R and the cutting area 62L displayed in the display. 14L left screen similar to the previous cutting areas that he / she has defined in advance.
The electronic mirror system 10 may parallel adjust a location at which the cutting area 62R is displayed in the right screen 14R and a location at which the cutting area 62L is displayed in the left screen 14L, as a result of driving. operations constituting the operating profile E. In this case, the electronic mirror system 10 moves in parallel manner the cutting area 62R displayed in the right screen 14R and the cutting area 62L displayed in the left screen 14L in the internal directions opposite to the center of the vehicle 18 along its width or in opposite external directions with respect to the center of the vehicle 18 along its width.
In a case in which the driver horizontally moves one of the cutting areas 62 displayed in the right screen 14R and in the left screen 14L while observing either the right screen 14R or the left screen 14L, the electronic rearview mirror system 10 may prevent the other of the cutting areas 62 displayed in the right screen 14R and the left screen 14L to move to an unexpected region (a region not desired by the driver). More specifically, for example, assume that an electronic mirror system 10 is configured so that the cutting areas 62R and 62L move in the same horizontal direction. In addition, the driver moves one of the cutting areas 62 in an internal direction of the vehicle 18 so that the body of the vehicle 18 appears in a corresponding screen 14 while observing the image in this screen 14. In this case, the body of the vehicle 18 can disappear from the other screen 14. As a result, the driver could feel an anomaly when actuating the composite switch 46 so that the vehicle 18 appears on the screen 14. By cons, the mirror system electronics 10 is configured to simultaneously move the two cutting areas 62R and 62L in opposite internal directions or opposite external directions with respect to the width of the vehicle 18, even in a case in which the driver moves one of the cutting areas 62R and 62L in a horizontal direction. Therefore, when the driver actuates the composite switch 46 while observing one of the screens 14, the electronic mirror system 10 may reduce the risk that he / she feels that an image displayed in the other of the screens 14 seems abnormal.
The electronic rearview mirror system 10 according to this embodiment can easily adjust the cutting area 62R displayed in the right screen 14R and the cutting area 62L displayed in the left screen 14L. In addition, the electronic mirror system 10 can independently adjust the cutting area 62R displayed in the right screen 14R and the cutting area 62L displayed in the left screen 14L, according to the preferences of the driver.
In this embodiment, by way of example, the cutting areas 62R and 62L move in the same horizontal direction during the processes associated with the operating profiles F and G. However, the direction of movement of the cutting areas 62R and 62L is not limited. Alternatively, the cutting areas 62R and 62L can move in opposite horizontal directions. More specifically, in a case in which the cutting area 62R in the photographed image 60R moves to the right during the process associated with the operating profile G and, therefore, the end point is positioned to the right of the start point for example, the cutting area 62L can move to the left. In a case in which the cutting area 62L in the photographed image 60L moves to the left during the process associated with the operating profile F and, therefore, the end point is positioned to the left of the start point, for example , the cutting area 62R can move to the right. Therefore, in a case in which the electronic mirror system 10 moves one of the images displayed in the right screen 14R and in the left screen 14L to the vehicle body 18 during the process associated with the operating profile F or G, for example, the electronic rearview mirror system 10 can also move the other of the images displayed in the right screen 14R and in the left screen 14L to the vehicle body 18.
In the electronic rearview mirror system 10 according to this embodiment, the folding switch 44 and the composite switch 46 arranged for electrically folding door mirrors can be used to adjust the cutting area 62R displayed in the right screen 14R and the cutting area 62L displayed in the left screen 14L. Therefore, it is not necessary to design any additional components, such as operating switches, dedicated to a position adjustment in the electronic rearview mirror system 10. Moreover, in the electronic rearview mirror system 10, use of the control panel 40 for electrically folding door mirrors can easily adjust cutting areas displayed on the screens 14.
This embodiment described above is an example of the present description and, therefore, is not intended to limit the configurations of the present description. The present description is applicable to any given configurations in which the first display means displays an image of a right rear area of a vehicle that is photographed by the first photographing means and the second display means displays an image. a left rear area of the vehicle that is photographed by the second medium of photography.
In this embodiment, a pair of area information is stored in the memories 36. However, the number of area information is not limited. Alternatively, as an applicable technique, a plurality of pairs of area information are stored in each memory 36. In a case where a plurality of pairs of area information can be stored in each memory 36R, for example, the left selection switch 50L may be depressed while the right selection switch 50R is held down. More specifically, in a case in which the left selection switch 50L is depressed once, the area information on the cutting area 62R can be stored in a first region in the memory 36R. In a case in which the left selection switch 50L is depressed twice, the area information on the cutting area 62R can be stored in a second region in the memory 36R. As an applicable technique, in a case in which the cutting areas 62 are adjusted on the basis of area information stored in the memories 36R and 36L, for example, the electronic mirror system 10 can read the stored area information in the first region when the right selection switch 50R and the left selection switch 50L are depressed once. In addition, the electronic mirror system 10 can read the zone information stored in the second region when the left selection switch 50R and the left selection switch 50L are sequentially depressed twice.
Each of the operating profiles A to H used in this embodiment is an example of a combination of operations of the selection means. The combinations of operations of the selection means are not limited to the operating profiles A to H, and other arbitrary combinations may be used.

权利要求:
Claims (6)
[1" id="c-fr-0001]
claims
A vehicle electronic rearview mirror system (10), comprising: a first photographing means which photographs a right rear area of a vehicle (12R); a second photographing means which photographs a left rear area of the vehicle (12L); display control means (31) which causes a first display means to display a cutting area (32B) in a first image photographed by the first photographing means (12R) and which causes a second display means displaying a cutting area (32L) in a second image photographed by the second photographing means (12L); selection means (50) which is used to select at least one of the first image or the second image; an operation switch (48) which is used to move the cutting area (32R) in the first image and / or the cutting area in the second image (32L) in a vertical direction of the vehicle and / or in a horizontal direction of the vehicle ; and position adjustment means which (i) in a case where the first image or the second image is selected as the operational target for the operation switch (48) by the selection means (50), adjusts a location of the cutting area (32B) in the selected image of the first image or the second image by moving the cutting area (32L) in the selected image as a function of operation of the operation switch (48) , or (ii) in a case in which the first image and the second image are both selected, adjusts the locations of the cutting areas (32) in the selected images by moving the cutting areas (32) in the selected images into function of operation of the operating switch (48).
[2" id="c-fr-0002]
The vehicle electronic rearview mirror system (10) according to claim 1, wherein in a case in which the first image and the second image are both selected and the operation switch (48) is operated so that the areas cutting means (32) move in the horizontal direction of the vehicle, the position adjusting means moves one of the cutting area in the first image (32R) or the cutting area in the second image (32L) in a direction in which the operation switch (48) is actuated and moves the other one of the cutting area in the first image (32R) or the cutting area in the second image (32L) in a direction opposite to the direction in which the operation switch (48) is actuated.
[3" id="c-fr-0003]
A vehicle electronic rearview mirror system (10), comprising: a first photographing means which photographs a right rear area of a vehicle (12R); a second photographing means which photographs a left rear area of the vehicle (12L); display control means (34) which causes a first display means to display a cutting area in a first image (32R) photographed by the first photographing means (12R) and which provides a second display means displaying a cutting area in a second image (32L) photographed by the second photographing means (12L); selection means (50) which is used to select at least one of the first image or the second image; an operation switch (48) which is used to move the cutting area in the first image and / or the cutting area in the second image (32R, 32L) in a vertical direction of the vehicle and / or in a horizontal direction of the vehicle; and position adjustment means which, in a case where one of the first image or the second image is selected as the operational target for the operation switch (48) by the selection means (50) and then the other one of the first image or the second image is then selected, adjusts a location of the cutting area in the first selected image (32R) by moving the cutting area in the first selected image according to an actuation of the operation switch (48), and adjusts a location of the cutting area in the selected second image (32L) by moving the cutting area in the selected second image (32L) on the basis of a direction of movement and an amount displaced from the cutting area in the first selected image (32R).
[4" id="c-fr-0004]
The vehicle electronic rearview mirror system (10) according to claim 3, wherein, in a case in which the operation switch (48) is actuated so that the cutting areas (32) move in a horizontal direction, the position adjusting means moves the cutting area in the selected first image (32R) in a direction in which the operation switch (48) is actuated and moves the cutting area in the selected second image (32L) in a direction opposite to the direction in which the cutting area in the selected first image (32R) is displaced.
[5" id="c-fr-0005]
A vehicle electronic rearview mirror system according to any one of claim 1 to claim 4, further comprising storage means (36) which (i) in a case in which the first image is selected as a target by the selection means (50), stores location information on the cutting area in the first image (32R) as the first location information, and (ii) in a case where the second location information image is selected as a storage target by the selection means, stores location information on the cutting area in the second image (32L) as a second location information, wherein, in a case in which the first image and the second image are both selected by the selection means (50) and an instruction is given to adjust the locations of the cutting areas (32) based on the location information. stored, the position adjustment means moves the cutting area in the first image (32R) based on the first location information and moves the cutting area in the second image (32L) based on the second information. location.
[6" id="c-fr-0006]
The vehicle electronic rearview mirror system (10) according to any one of claim 1 to claim 5, further comprising a composite switch (46) which comprises: the operating switch (48); a first selection switch (50) disposed adjacent to the operation switch (48) as a selection means, the first selection switch (50R) being used to select the first picture; and a second selector switch (50L) disposed as a selection means adjacent to the operation switch (48) in conjunction with the first selector switch (50R), the second selector switch (50L) being used to selecting the second image, and the second selection switch (50L) being used to select both the first image and the second image being actuated together with an operation of the first selection switch (50R).

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同族专利:

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公开号 | 公开日

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JP2017024464A|2017-02-02|

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DE102016112817A1|2017-01-19|

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JP6558989B2|2019-08-14|

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法律状态:
2017-07-20| PLFP| Fee payment|Year of fee payment: 2 |

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2018-06-18| PLFP| Fee payment|Year of fee payment: 3 |

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2019-04-17| PLFP| Fee payment|Year of fee payment: 4 |

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2020-05-15| RX| Complete rejection|Effective date: 20200403 |

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2020-05-29| RX| Complete rejection|Effective date: 20200420 |

优先权:

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申请号 | 申请日 | 专利标题

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JP2015142270A|JP6558989B2|2015-07-16|2015-07-16|Electronic mirror system for vehicles|

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