JP2009048605A - Drowsy driving-preventing device - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To improve an effect of awakening a driver and to improve a drowsy driving-preventing effect. <P>SOLUTION: It is determined, on the basis of a vigilance detected by a vigilance detection part 101, whether to require the output of an alarm sound to the driver by means of a speaker 103. When it is determined to require the output of the alarm sound to the driver, the alarm sound is outputted to the driver by means of the speaker 103. The driver operates stop switches 104a, 104b, when the lights 105a, 105b are turned on, which are provided in the stop switches 104a, 104b, to stop the alarm sound. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2009,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention detects a dozing state of a driver of a vehicle, a ship operator, an operator of a plant, a mechanical device, or the like, and if a dozing state is detected, awakening is promoted to prevent a dozing operation About.

  Conventionally, as this type of technology, for example, those described in the following documents are known (see Patent Document 1). This document employs a configuration in which an alarm sound is stopped by a manual operation of operating an alarm stop switch when a driver's drowsiness is detected and an alarm sound starts to sound. By adopting such a configuration, it can be expected that the driver's awakening is promoted by the driver's manual operation in addition to the alarm sound.

  Further, in this document, the reaction time until the alarm sound is canceled is measured, and the determination logic for the dozing operation is changed based on the reaction time. Thereby, the detection accuracy of dozing driving is improved.

On the other hand, in Patent Document 2 shown below, the driver seated on the driver's seat is stimulated by vibrating the driver's seat according to the driver's state, and further, according to the driver's state. A technique is described in which effective stimulation is given to the driver by controlling the intensity and vibration pattern of the vibration given to the driver via the seat, thereby urging the driver.
JP2002-183900 JP 2005-152352 A

  However, in the conventional technique disclosed in the above-mentioned document 1, since the installation position of the alarm stop switch for stopping the alarm sound is fixed, the stop operation can be performed unconsciously without being conscious of the stop operation. There was a risk of being able to do it. In such a case, the problem that the awakening effect by manual operation cannot be expected will be caused.

  On the other hand, in the conventional technique disclosed in the above-mentioned document 2, since the duration of the awakening degree maintaining effect by the stimulus is short only by the vibration stimulus, a sufficient awakening effect cannot be obtained. In addition, with vibration stimulation alone, the driver's habituation to the vibration stimulation occurs by repeating the stimulation, and thus there is a possibility that the awakening effect due to repeated vibration cannot be maintained.

  Therefore, the present invention has been made in view of the above, and an object of the present invention is to provide a snooze driving prevention device that improves the effect of promoting the driver's arousal and enhances the snoozing driving prevention effect. There is to do.

  In order to achieve the above object, the means for solving the problems of the present invention determines whether or not the wakefulness detected by the wakefulness detection means is a wakefulness enough to output a warning to the driver, When it is determined that the degree of arousal is high enough to output a warning to the driver, the alarm is output to the driver by the alarm means, and the alarm release operation is performed to release the alarm by the alarm release means after the alarm is output. It is characterized in that it is presented by a legal presentation means.

  According to the present invention, by changing the alarm canceling operation method, the driver's familiarity with the canceling operation can be prevented, the driver's arousal effect can be enhanced, and drowsy driving can be prevented.

  DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS The best embodiment for carrying out the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a snooze driving prevention apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention. The apparatus of the first embodiment shown in FIG. 1 includes an arousal level detection unit 101 (awakening level detection unit) that detects a driver's arousal level, and a driver's arousal level detected by the arousal level detection unit 101 outputs an alarm. It is determined whether or not the degree of arousal is enough to determine whether or not it is arousal level (before the driver falls asleep and does not fall into a drowsy driving state) and outputs an alarm. If determined, the control unit 102 (control means) that functions as a control center that controls a series of operations for outputting a warning and releasing the warning after the warning is output, and the control unit 102 determines that the warning is output. And a speaker 103 (alarm means) for outputting an alarm sound, release switches 104a and 104b (alarm release means) for stopping the alarm sound emitted by the speaker 103 by the driver's operation, and an effective solution for performing the alarm stop. Switch 104a or 104b corresponding the (valid) demonstrating the release switch driver light 105a, it is configured by a 105b (alarm release procedure presentation means). Two or more release switches may be provided.

  The arousal level detection unit 101 includes a biological signal sensor 106 (biological signal measuring means) that detects biological signals such as a driver's brain wave, heart rate, and skin potential, and a face image capturing camera 107 that captures the driver's face ( Face image recognition means), a steering angle sensor 108 for detecting the steering angle of the steering wheel (driving operation measurement means), a lateral G sensor 109 (vehicle state measurement means) for detecting the lateral acceleration of the vehicle, and a traveling path ahead of the vehicle And a traveling road photographing camera 110 (driving environment measuring means) for photographing the above, and these function as awakening degree detecting means. The arousal level is detected by at least the one or more arousal level detection means, and the detection result is provided to the determination of the arousal level.

  The biological signal sensor 106, the face image capturing camera 107, the steering angle sensor 108, the lateral G sensor 109, and the traveling road imaging camera 110 are examples of sensors that output a signal for determining arousal level to the control unit 102. In addition, there is no particular limitation as long as it provides a signal for detecting the state of arousal level. Further, it is not necessary to provide all of the sensors of the biological signal sensor 106, the face image photographing camera 107, the steering angle sensor 108, the lateral G sensor 109, and the traveling road photographing camera 110, and according to the design concept of the snooze driving prevention device, A sensor or a combination of a plurality of sensors can be arbitrarily selected.

  When determining the drowsy driving state based on the driver's biological signal detected by the biological signal sensor 106, the drowsing driving state can be determined by a technique described in, for example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 56-67632. In the case where the dozing operation state is determined based on the driver's face image captured by the face image capturing camera 107, the dozing operation state can be determined by a technique described in, for example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 10-143669. When determining the drowsiness driving state based on the steering angle signal detected by the steering angle sensor 108, the drowsiness driving state can be determined by the technique described in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 5-58192, for example. When the drowsiness driving state is determined based on the lateral acceleration detected by the lateral G sensor 109, for example, the change in the steering angle is converted into the lateral G from the techniques described in the above two publications, or the vehicle is traveling with the vehicle. A change in distance from the segmented band can be converted into a lateral G, and a drowsy driving state can be determined based on the lateral G obtained by the conversion. In the case of determining the dozing driving state based on the forward shot image of the vehicle driving path detected by the driving road imaging camera 110, for example, the dozing driving condition can be determined by a technique described in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 5-69757. .

  The control unit 102 receives the input from the wakefulness detection unit 101 to determine the driver's wakefulness, and when the determined wakefulness is enough to output an alarm to the driver, An alarm sound is output from the speaker 103 before falling into the vehicle, thereby prompting the driver to be careful not to fall asleep. The control unit 102 sets an effective alarm canceling means as an input to the cancel switch 104a or 104b, and presents an effective alarm canceling means to the driver by turning on the lights 105a or 105b. The output of the alarm sound from the speaker 103 is stopped only when a valid input (cancellation of the alarm sound) (release operation) of the release switch 104a or the release switch 104b is performed.

  Next, the vehicle arrangement relationship of the configuration shown in FIG. 1 will be described with reference to FIG. In the vehicle arrangement relation diagram shown in FIG. 2, release switches 104 a and 104 b, for example, an instrument panel portion (control panel portion) that is normally arranged under the front window of the vehicle, and a driver seated in the driver's seat holds a hand. It is placed in a position where it needs to be extended and operated. The corresponding lights 105a and 105b are arranged on the release switches 104a and 104b, respectively, and it is visually determined which of the release switches 104a and 104b is effective by lighting one of the lights 105a and 105b. It can be done.

  With such an arrangement of the release switches 104a and 104b, when the driver stops (releases) the alarm, an awakening effect can be expected by moving the body. The release switches 104a and 104b are installed in the vehicle instrument panel section symmetrically with respect to the driver with the handle as a boundary. Therefore, since the two release switches 104a and 104b do not enter the driver's field of view at the same time, in order for the driver to recognize the effective release switches 104a and 104b, it is necessary to firmly recognize the two release switches 104a and 104b. There is an awakening effect.

  Next, the basic operation flow in the first embodiment will be described based on the flowchart of FIG. First, the awakening degree determination reference value is initialized (step (hereinafter abbreviated as S) 101). Subsequently, the alarm stop means setting is initialized (S102). The alarm stop means setting is the setting of the effective release switches 104a and 104b, the initialization of the input amount, and the initialization of the alarm stop means presentation.

  Next, the alarm setting is initialized (S103). The alarm setting is initialization of the output alarm amount. Subsequently, signals from each sensor and camera of the arousal level detection unit 101 are input to the control unit 102 (S104). This input signal differs depending on the arousal level detection means.

  The biological signal sensor 106 outputs, for example, an electroencephalogram signal to the control unit 102 if it detects an electroencephalogram, and a pulse signal if it detects a heart rate. The face image photographing camera 107 outputs an image obtained by photographing the driver's face to the control unit 102. The face image photographing camera 107 can also incorporate an image processing device. In this case, the eye opening / closing state and the driver's facial expression change are detected from an image obtained by photographing the driver's face with the camera, and the eye The opening / closing determination signal and the driver facial expression change may be output to the control unit 102 as a time-series signal.

  The steering angle sensor 108 outputs a steering angle signal indicating the steering operation state to the control unit 102. The lateral G sensor 109 outputs the lateral acceleration of the vehicle to the control unit 102. The traveling road photographing camera 110 outputs an image obtained by photographing the forward traveling road of the vehicle with the camera to the control unit 102. The traveling road photographing camera 110 can also incorporate an image processing device. In this case, the traveling road photographing camera 110 recognizes the traveling zone and the front vehicle from the image obtained by photographing the forward traveling road of the vehicle with the camera, and The distance to the belt and the distance to the vehicle ahead may be calculated and output to the control unit 102.

  Next, the input value from the arousal level detection unit 101 is subjected to data processing, and becomes a threshold value for determining whether or not to output an alarm, and can be compared with the arousal level determination reference value that can be arbitrarily set as a design item. Conversion processing to values is performed (S105). For example, in the case of an eye open / closed determination result signal, it is an integrated value of the number of closed eyes generated at a predetermined time, and in the case of a steering angle signal, it is an integrated value of a specific frequency obtained by frequency analysis.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the wakefulness determination value converted in the previous S105 exceeds the wakefulness determination reference value (S106). If the determination result indicates that the wakefulness determination value does not exceed the reference value, the process returns to the previous S104 and the same. Repeat the process. On the other hand, if the reference value is exceeded, pre-processing for alarm output is performed (S107). Thereafter, a standby process is performed until the effective release switches 104a and 104b are operated (S108). After the effective release switches 104a and 104b are operated, an alarm output end process is performed (S109) and again. Returning to the previous S104, the same processing is repeated.

  Next, the alarm pre-processing shown in S107 will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. In FIG. 4, first, an alarm start time is acquired (S201), and alarm sound output is started according to the alarm output setting (S202).

  Next, the alarm stop standby process shown in S108 will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. In FIG. 5, first, the alarm output time is calculated from the alarm start time (S301). Subsequently, input determination processing of the release switches 104a and 104b is performed (S302). Next, an alarm output amount changing process is performed (S303). Subsequently, based on the result of the input determination process of the release switches 104a and 104b, it is determined whether or not the input (release operation) of the release switches 104a and 104b has been performed (S304). As a result of the determination, if an input is performed, the process proceeds to an alarm output end process (S109). If no input is performed, the process returns to the previous S301 and the same process is repeated.

  Next, the release switch input determination process shown in S302 will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. In FIG. 6, first, an integer remainder is calculated when the alarm output time is divided by a preset change period, and it is determined whether or not the result is 0 (S401). With this process, the effective release switches 104a and 104b are changed every change period that is a predetermined period. As a result of the determination, if it is not 0, the process proceeds to S405 to be described later. If it is 0, the designated switch (switch that can release the alarm) is randomly changed from the release switches 104a and 104b (S402).

  Next, all the lights 105a and 105b are turned off (S403), and one of the lights 105a and 105b corresponding to the designated switch (one of the release switches 104a and 104b) is turned on (S404). Thereafter, it is determined whether or not the designated switch has been operated (S405). As a result of the determination, if the designated switch is operated and there is an input, it holds that the designated switch has been input (turned on) (S406). On the other hand, if there is no designated switch input, the designated switch is input. It is held that there was no (OFF) (S407).

  Next, the process of S303 in the case where the change in the alarm presentation amount is the change in the alarm volume will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. In FIG. 7, first, the input state of the retained designated switch is determined (S501). As a result of the determination, if there is a switch input, the process proceeds to the previous S304. On the other hand, if there is no switch input, the product of the alarm output time and a preset alarm change rate (number of 1 or more) is set as the alarm volume. The alarm volume is changed by adding (S502). By this process, the alarm sound gradually increases until the effective release switches 104a and 104b are operated, and an alarm with an alarm volume corresponding to the reaction time until the driver stops the alarm becomes possible.

  Next, the process of S303 in the case where the alarm sound is a periodic sound and the change in the alarm presentation amount is a change in the alarm frequency will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. In FIG. 8, first, the input state of the held designated switch is determined (S601). As a result of the determination, if there is a switch input, the process proceeds to the previous S304. If there is no switch input, the alarm sound frequency is multiplied by a preset alarm change rate (decimal number of 1 or less) (S602). . By this process, the alarm frequency gradually decreases until the effective release switches 104a and 104b are operated, and an alarm with an alarm frequency corresponding to the reaction time until the driver stops the alarm is enabled.

  Next, the alarm output end process shown in the previous S109 will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. In FIG. 9, first, after alarm output is stopped (S701), all lights 105a and 105b are turned off (S702). Next, the alarm volume is initialized when the alarm volume to be initialized is the alarm volume, and the alarm frequency is initialized when the alarm volume is the alarm frequency (S703). ). Thereafter, the held switch input state is initialized to a state in which no switch is input (S704), and each income time of the alarm start time and the alarm output time is initialized (S705).

  As described above, in the first embodiment, the release switches 104a and 104b serving as alarm release means are changed according to the driver's condition, thereby preventing the driver from getting used to the release switches 104a and 104b. can do. Thereby, the awakening effect by the operation of the release switches 104a and 104b can be maintained.

  Since the driver's arousal level state is detected based on changes in the driver's biological signals such as brain waves, heartbeats, and skin potential, the detection accuracy of the sleep driving is improved. Since the driver's arousal level is detected based on changes in the driver's eye open / closed state and facial expressions, the arousal level determination method is suitable for the driver's state without requiring complicated operations. Can be selected automatically. Since the driver's arousal state is detected by the change in the steering operation state, it is possible to automatically select the arousal level determination method suitable for the driving characteristics of the driver without requiring a complicated operation. it can. Since the driver's arousal state is detected by the meandering state of the vehicle, the steering provided in the vehicle without using a complicated arousal level determination means for directly detecting the arousal level state from the driver's state A drowsiness driving state can be detected by a simple sensor such as an angle sensor or a lateral G sensor. Since the driver's arousal level state is detected based on the distance between the preceding vehicle and the trace state of the road white line, without using a complex arousal level determination means for directly detecting the arousal level state from the vehicle environment, The sleeping state can be detected by a millimeter wave radar sensor or a laser radar sensor provided in the vehicle.

  By gradually increasing the alarm volume from the start of the alarm sound output, the alarm output method that suits the driver's preference can be achieved while minimizing the annoyance of the alarm that the driver can react immediately and feels unnecessary. it can. Further, by making the alarm sound at the initial stage as small as possible, it is possible to avoid surprise the driver with the alarm sound.

  By providing release switches 104a and 104b on the instrument panel of the vehicle that the driver needs to intentionally reach out to operate, the driver moves the body and operates the release switches 104a and 104b. It is possible to prevent a decrease in the degree.

  By providing a plurality of release switches 104a and 104b, it becomes necessary for the driver to recognize and operate the effective release switches 104a and 104b from the plurality of release switches 104a and 104b. ) Increases to the recognition level, it is possible to prevent unconscious alarm release operation.

  By disposing the release switches 104a and 104b so as to be divided to the left and right around the steering wheel, it is possible to prevent a plurality of alarm release means from entering the driver's field of view at the same time. Thus, the driver needs to search for an effective alarm canceling means (can cancel the alarm). Therefore, it is possible to prevent an alarm canceling operation without unconsciousness.

  By randomly changing the alarm canceling operation method, the driver can be prevented from guessing and operating an effective alarm canceling operation method. Thereby, it is possible to prevent the release operation of the release switches 104a and 104b from being performed unconsciously, and it is possible to increase the driver's arousal level and to improve the effect of preventing dozing.

  By providing the lights 105a and 105b serving as alarm release operation method presenting means corresponding to the release switches 104a and 104b, the effective release switches 104a and 104b can be visually recognized, and the effective release switch 104a. , 104b can be prevented from being distracted by driving.

  Simultaneous operation of the release switches 104a and 104b by lighting one of the lights 105a and 105b is avoided. This prevents the alarm canceling operation from becoming so complicated that it hinders the driving operation, and can prevent distraction from driving.

  FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the snooze driving prevention apparatus according to the second embodiment of the present invention. The feature of the second embodiment shown in FIG. 10 is that, instead of the release switches 104a and 104b and the lights 105a and 105b, one rotary release switch 1001 (alarm release means) and a display 1002 (alarm release operation method presenting means). ), A single switch is provided with a plurality of operation means, and the driver operates the rotary release switch 1001 to stop the alarm issued by the speaker 103, and the display 1002 operates a complicated rotary release switch 1001. The method is visually presented to the driver.

  Next, the vehicle arrangement relationship of the configuration shown in FIG. 10 will be described with reference to FIG. In the vehicle arrangement relationship diagram shown in FIG. 11, a rotary release switch 1001 is a switch that detects the amount and direction of rotation of a switch operation, and has a plurality of operation means with a single switch. As shown in FIG. 11, the rotary release switch 1001 is installed in a vehicle instrument panel where the driver needs to reach out and operate. Thereby, when the driver stops the alarm, the awakening effect can be expected by moving the body. The display 1002 presents a method of operating the rotary release switch 1001 for stopping the alarm to the driver in the direction of rotation in the direction of the arrow and the amount of rotation in the size of the arrow.

  The basic operation flow of the second embodiment is the same as the basic operation flow of the first embodiment shown in FIG.

  Next, the process shown in S108 of FIG. 3 in the second embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. In FIG. 12, first, processing similar to the processing shown in S301 to S304 in FIG. 5 is executed. As a result of the input determination processing of the rotary release switch 1001, when the input (release operation) is not performed, the switch After initializing the input start time (S1201), the process returns to S301 and the same processing is repeated. When the operation of the rotary release switch 1001 is stopped during the switch input period by this processing, the switch input time is calculated again.

  On the other hand, if an input has been made in the determination result of S304, it is determined whether or not a switch input start time has been acquired (S1202). If the switch input start time has already been obtained as a result of the determination, the switch input time is calculated (S1203). On the other hand, if the switch input start time is not earned, after the switch input start time is earned (S1204), the process returns to the previous S301 and the same process is repeated. The start of switch input can be determined by this processing.

  When the switch input time is calculated in the previous S1203, it is determined whether the switch input period is larger or smaller than a preset designated input period (S1205). If the switch input period is longer than the designated input period as a result of the determination, the process proceeds to S109 shown in FIG. 3, while if the switch input period is smaller than the designated input period, the process returns to the previous S301. Similar processing is repeated. By this process, the process is repeated until an input for a specified input period or longer is performed.

  Next, the processing shown in S302 of FIG. 5 in the second embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. In FIG. 13, first, the input state of the designated switch held is determined (S1301). If there is a switch input as a result of the determination, the process proceeds to S1306 described later. The processing shifts to the processing branch at the start of input of the rotary release switch 1001. That is, it is determined whether the switch rotation direction, which is the input amount of the rotary release switch 1001, has been determined (S1302). If the switch input rotation direction is not determined as a result of the determination, the switch rotation direction is randomly determined (S1303), and then the process proceeds to S1306 described later. With this process, the rotation direction of the rotary release switch 1001 can be determined only at the alarm start stage.

  On the other hand, when the rotation direction of the rotary release switch 1001 has been determined, after performing the same process as the process of S401 shown in FIG. 6, if the integer remainder is not 0, the process of S1306 described later On the other hand, when it is 0, the rotation change amount set in advance is added to the switch rotation amount that is the input amount of the rotary release switch 1001 (S1304). By this processing, the amount of change in rotation gradually increases until a valid input is input to the rotary release switch 1001, and an alarm stop means corresponding to the reaction time until the driver stops the alarm can be provided.

  Next, an input period change amount set in advance is added to the designated input period used in the determination processing of S1205 shown in FIG. 12 (S1305). By this processing, the input period is gradually increased until a valid input is input to the rotary release switch 1001, and an alarm stop means corresponding to the reaction time until the driver stops the alarm can be provided.

  Subsequently, the current switch rotation amount and rotation direction are respectively displayed on the display 1002 by the size and direction of the arrow (S1306). By this process, an effective alarm canceling operation method can be presented to the driver. Thereafter, it is determined whether or not the rotation release switch 1001 has been input (operated) in the specified rotation direction at or above the specified switch rotation amount (S1307). As a result of the determination, if there is an input, it is held that there is a designated switch input (S406), and if there is no input, it is held that there is no designated switch input (S407).

  Next, the process shown in S109 of FIG. 3 in the second embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. In FIG. 14, first, after the alarm output is stopped (S701), the display 1002 is initialized (S1401). Next, the alarm volume is initialized when the alarm volume to be initialized is the alarm volume, and the alarm frequency is initialized when the alarm volume is the alarm frequency (S703). ). Subsequently, the switch rotation direction, switch rotation amount, and designated input period are initialized (S1402). Thereafter, the held switch input state is initialized to a state in which no switch is input (S704), and each income time of the alarm start time, the alarm output time, and the switch input time is initialized (S1403).

  As described above, in the second embodiment, in addition to the effect obtained in the first embodiment, the difficulty level of the alarm release operation is changed according to the time until the driver's alarm release operation. Further, when the degree of arousal is lower, it is possible to perform an alarm canceling operation with a higher arousal effect, and to enhance the effect of preventing a drowsy driving.

  According to the driver's awakening state, a release method for releasing the alarm by changing at least one of the release operation methods including the operation time, the number of operations (operation amount), and the operating force when releasing the alarm. By adopting it, it is possible to provide a warning canceling means with a higher awakening effect and prevent a reduction in the arousal level.

  Next, Embodiment 3 of the present invention will be described. The feature of the third embodiment is that, compared to the first embodiment described above, the number of inputs of the release switch is gradually increased until an effective release switch is input, so that the driver's warning The alarm stop means corresponding to the reaction time until the stop is provided, and the flowchart showing the configuration, the vehicle arrangement relationship, and the basic operation flow is the same as that in the first embodiment and is omitted.

  Next, the alarm stop standby process shown in S108 of FIG. 3 in the third embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. In FIG. 15, first, the same processing as S301 to S304 shown in FIG. 5 is executed, and as a result of determining whether or not the input (operation) of the release switches 104a and 104b has been performed, there is no input. After setting the product of the switch designation input count set so far and the preset number of times input change rate as a new switch designation input count (S1501), the processing returns to S301 and the same processing is repeated. By this processing, the number of switch designation inputs gradually increases until an effective release switch operation is performed, and it is possible to provide an alarm release means corresponding to the reaction time until the driver stops the alarm.

  On the other hand, if an input is made in the determination result of S304, the current switch input count is stored (S1502). Subsequently, the number of switch inputs is compared with a preset number of switch designated inputs (S1503). If the number of switch inputs is greater than the number of switch designated inputs, the process proceeds to S109 in FIG. If the number of inputs is smaller than the number of inputs designated by the switch, all the lights 105a and 105b are turned off (S1504), and the held switch input state is initialized to an uninput state (S1505). Return to the process and repeat the same process. By this processing, the processing is repeated until the release switches 104a and 104b are input more than the specified number of inputs (switch specified input count).

  Next, the alarm output end process shown in S109 of FIG. 3 in the third embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. In FIG. 16, first, the same processing as that shown in S701 to S704 of FIG. 9 is executed, then the switch input count is initialized (S1601), the switch input designation count is initialized (S1602), the alarm start time, Each income time of the alarm output time is initialized and finished (S705).

  As described above, in the third embodiment, the same effects as those obtained in the first and second embodiments can be obtained.

  Next, a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described. The feature of the fourth embodiment is that, in contrast to the first embodiment, after the alarm is output, the alarm canceling method is changed depending on the elapsed time from when the alarm is canceled until the alarm is started again. In particular, the flowchart showing the configuration, the vehicle arrangement relationship, and the basic operation flow is the same as that in the first embodiment, and will be omitted.

  Next, the alarm output preprocessing shown in S107 of FIG. 3 in the fourth embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. In FIG. 17, first, an alarm presentation interval, which is a time interval from the end of the previous alarm output to the present, is compared with a preset alarm output setting change interval (S1701). In the comparison result, when the alarm presentation interval is smaller (shorter) than the alarm output setting change interval, the alarm stop standby process (S108) performed after outputting the alarm shown in S202 of FIG. 15 is executed by executing the series of processing shown in the flowchart of FIG. 15 and the alarm output end processing (S109) is executed by executing the series of processing shown in the flowchart of FIG. 16 described in the third embodiment. This is performed (S1702).

  On the other hand, if the alarm presentation interval is larger (longer) than the alarm output setting change interval in the comparison result, the alarm stop standby process (S108) performed after outputting the alarm shown in S202 of FIG. 5 is performed by executing the series of processes shown in the flowchart of FIG. 5 described in Example 1, and the alarm output end process (S109) is performed by executing the series of processes shown in the flowchart of FIG. 9 described in Example 1 above. (S1703).

  Thereafter, the processing shown in S201 and S202 of FIG. By adopting such a process, when the alarm presentation interval is short, it is determined that the awakening effect on the driver by the previous alarm stop process is low, and more complicated alarm stop means can be presented to the driver. it can.

  As described above, in the fourth embodiment, in addition to the effects obtained in the first to third embodiments, the awakening effect by the warning to the driver is determined based on the time difference with the warning output period. If this time difference is short, the alarm cancellation operation method is complicated, and if this time difference is long, the alarm cancellation operation method is simplified, thereby providing an alarm cancellation means according to the driver's arousal level. can do.

  In the first, second, and fourth embodiments, the alarm is released by an operation in which a plurality of alarm release means are combined, that is, the operation of both the release switches 104a and 104b, and this operation is performed according to the driver's arousal level. You may employ | adopt the cancellation | release method changed suitably. In such a release method, by requesting the driver to perform a combination operation when releasing the alarm, the driver's familiarity with the alarm release operation can be prevented, and a reduction in the arousal level due to the alarm release operation can be prevented. It is possible to maintain the effect.

  FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the snooze driving prevention apparatus according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention. The apparatus of Example 5 shown in FIG. 18 includes an arousal level detection unit 101 (awakening level detection means) that detects a driver's arousal level, a seat vibrator 1801 that vibrates the driver seated in the driver's seat, A microphone 1802 for detecting the utterance content of the driver, a speaker 1803 for calling the driver by utterance, a dialog control unit 1804 for controlling a dialog with the driver, a seat vibrator 1801 and a dialog control unit 1804 In addition to controlling the operation of the apparatus, a main control unit 1805 for controlling and managing the entire apparatus is provided.

  The arousal level detection unit 101 is the same as that shown in FIG.

  The seat vibrator 1801 functions as a warning unit that urges the driver to awaken by giving a vibration stimulus to the driver as a vibration unit and warns the driver that the degree of arousal is decreasing. Note that the vibration means for giving the vibration stimulus to the driver is not limited to the seat vibrator, and as another means, for example, a device for giving the vibration stimulus by directly touching the driver's body may be provided.

  The dialogue control unit 1804 makes a call to the driver via the speaker 1803, and inputs and recognizes the driver's utterance corresponding to the driver via the microphone 1802, thereby interactively communicating with the driver. Control the dialog. The dialogue control unit 1804 functions as a dialogue means together with the microphone 1802 and the speaker 1803, and presents a release method for releasing the vibration stimulus given from the seat vibrator 1801 functioning as a warning means by the voice dialogue by the dialogue means, and gives the vibration stimulus. It functions as an alarm releasing means for releasing and an alarm releasing operation method presenting means.

  The main control unit 1805 is such that the driver's arousal level detected by the arousal level detection unit 101 outputs an alarm (before the driver enters the drowsy driving state and does not fall into the drowsy driving state) ), And if it is determined that the degree of arousal is sufficient to give a vibration stimulus to the driver, the vibration stimulus is given to the driver and the degree is adjusted. After giving, it functions as a control center that controls a series of actions such as presenting and releasing a method of releasing vibration stimulation by voice dialogue.

  The main control unit 1805 is realized by, for example, a microcomputer provided with resources such as a CPU, a storage device, and an input / output device necessary for a computer that controls various operation processes based on a program, and is previously stored in the control logic. The above-described operation is controlled based on (program). The dialog control unit 1804 and the main control unit 1805 are shown as different constituent elements in FIG. 18, but may be configured by one means including the functions of both units, for example, a microcomputer. .

  Next, with reference to FIG. 19, the vehicle arrangement relationship of the configuration shown in FIG. 18 will be described. In the vehicle arrangement relationship diagram shown in FIG. 19, the seat vibrator 1801 is provided on the back portion (backrest) of the driver's seat and mainly applies vibration stimulation around the chest of the driver. Note that the seat vibrator 1801 may be provided in, for example, a seat portion of the driver's seat in addition to the back portion, and the installation position is not limited as long as vibration stimulation is effectively given to the driver. The microphone 1802 is provided at substantially the center of the handle portion, and there is no restriction on the installation position as long as the driver's speech can be clearly collected. The speaker 1803 is provided on the door on the driver's seat side, and may also be used as a speaker of an in-vehicle audio device, for example. The speaker 1803 is not limited to the illustrated installation position as long as it can call the driver by voice. Absent.

  Next, the operation flow in the fifth embodiment will be described based on the flowchart of FIG. First, the awakening degree determination reference value is initialized (S2001), and then the period for accepting and waiting for the driver's utterance input is initialized in the dialogue control unit 1804 (S2002). The seat vibrator 1801 informs the driver. The maximum period for applying the vibration stimulus to be applied is initialized (S2003).

  Next, a signal from the detection sensor of the arousal level determination unit 101 is input to the main control unit 1805 to perform processing for conversion to the arousal level (S2004). This input signal differs depending on the arousal level detection means.

  The biological signal sensor 107 outputs, for example, an electroencephalogram signal to the main control unit 1805 if it detects an electroencephalogram, and detects a heart rate if it detects a heart rate.

  The face image photographing camera 108 outputs an image obtained by photographing the driver's face to the main control unit 1805. The face image photographing camera 108 can also incorporate an image processing device. In this case, the eye opening / closing state and the driver's facial expression change are detected from an image obtained by photographing the driver's face with the camera, and the eye opening / closing is detected. The determination signal and the driver expression change may be output to the main control unit 1805 as a time series signal.

  The steering angle sensor 109 outputs a steering angle signal indicating the steering operation state to the main control unit 1805.

  The lateral G sensor 110 outputs lateral acceleration of the vehicle to the main control unit 1805.

  The traveling road photographing camera 111 outputs an image obtained by photographing the traveling road ahead of the vehicle with the camera to the main control unit 1805. The traveling road photographing camera 111 can also incorporate an image processing device. In this case, the traveling road image or the forward vehicle is recognized from the image obtained by photographing the forward traveling road of the vehicle with the camera. Or the distance to the preceding vehicle may be calculated and output to the main control unit 1805.

  Next, the input value from the arousal level detection unit 101 is subjected to data processing, and the arousal level determination that can be compared with the awakening level determination reference value that can be arbitrarily set as a design item as a threshold value for whether or not to apply a vibration stimulus. Perform conversion to value. For example, in the case of an eye open / closed determination result signal, this conversion process is a process of calculating an integrated value of the number of closed eyes generated at a predetermined time, and in the case of a steering angle signal, an integrated value of a specific frequency obtained by frequency analysis is calculated. It is processing.

  Subsequently, it is determined whether or not the arousal level determination value obtained in the previous S2004 is lower than the arousal level determination reference value (S2005). If the result of determination is not lower than the reference value, processing returns to the previous S2004 and the same processing is repeated. On the other hand, if it is lower than the reference value, it is assumed that the driver's arousal level has decreased to such an extent that an alarm is issued, and alarm vibration processing is performed to give a vibration stimulus to the driver (S2006). In this process, the vibration from the seat vibrator 1801 is stopped and released by giving a vibration stimulus to the driver from the seat vibrator 1801 and performing a dialog action specified in advance in the dialog control unit 1804.

  Next, a specific processing procedure performed in S2006 will be described with reference to a flowchart showing the processing procedure in FIG. 21 and a dialogue flow showing an example of the utterance on the apparatus side in the dialogue behavior shown in FIG.

  In FIG. 21, first, vibration stimulation is applied to the driver, particularly around the driver's chest, with the seat vibrator 1801 (S2101). After that, under the control of the dialogue control unit 1804, the driver is interrogated by the speaker 1803 to notify that the alarm by vibration is started because the decrease in the arousal level is detected, and the driver stops the vibration. Is taught (presentation of the alarm canceling operation method) (S2102). An example of the call utterance at this time is shown in IS (interactive step) 2201 in FIG. The stop code “***” is an arbitrary character string, and a plurality of stop codes are set in advance in the dialog control unit 1804, and one stop code is randomly selected and uttered. By randomly selecting one of a plurality of stop codes, it is possible to prevent habituation when canceling even if the driver repeatedly performs alarm vibration processing.

  Subsequently, the driver's speech is acquired by the microphone 1802 (S2103), and the acquired driver's speech content is determined (S2104). As a result of the determination, if the driver's utterance is an utterance other than the selected stop code, the driver is called as having failed to recognize the utterance (failed to cancel the vibration stimulus) (S2105), Returning to S2102, the same processing is repeated. An example of the challenge utterance at this time is shown in IS2202 of FIG.

  If there is no utterance within the designated time preset in the dialog control unit 1804, the driver is urged that there is no utterance within the designated time (S2106), and the same goes back to S2102. Repeat the process. An example of the call utterance at this time is shown in IS2203 in FIG.

  If the driver's utterance is the selected stop code, the driver has uttered an accurate stop code, so that the utterance is confirmed and the alarm by vibration stimulation is stopped (S2107). Then, the vibration stimulation is stopped (S2108). An example of the call utterance at this time is shown in IS2204 in FIG.

  An example of the time change of the vibration stimulus given to the driver from the seat vibrator 1801 is shown in FIG. In FIG. 23, vibration stimulation is started at time Ta, and time Tb and time Tc indicate times for switching ON / OFF of vibration. By repeating ON / OFF of vibration, the awakening effect by vibration stimulation to the driver can be enhanced. In addition, by increasing linearly the amount of vibration given to the driver every time the vibration is turned on / off, the driver does not recognize the vibration stimulus even when the arousal level is low. It can be avoided.

  In the fifth embodiment, by providing the dialogue means, not only the awakening effect by the vibration stimulus but also the awakening effect by the dialogue can be further given to the driver, so that a sufficient awakening effect can be obtained. . In addition, by providing the vibration means, the vibration stimulus is not a simple vibration stimulus because the application of the vibration stimulus is related to the dialogue behavior, so that the driver's familiarity with the vibration can be prevented.

  By giving vibration around the driver's chest, unpleasant vibration stimulation can be given to the driver, thereby further enhancing the awakening effect of the vibration stimulation.

  Such an effect can be similarly obtained in Examples 6 to 8 described below.

  By periodically changing the vibration amount of the vibration generated by the vibration means, the driver can easily recognize that the vibration stimulus is applied, and the awakening effect by the vibration stimulus can be further enhanced. In addition, since the vibration amount of the vibration generated by the vibration means changes according to the time that the vibration stimulus is given to the driver, it becomes easier for the driver to notice that the vibration stimulus is given and the driver becomes accustomed to the vibration stimulus. Can be prevented.

  Such an effect can be similarly obtained in Examples 7 to 8 described below.

  Furthermore, the vibration stimulus can be raised to the driver's recognition level by requesting the driver to interact with the vibration means to stop the vibration stimulus given to the driver and release the warning. It is possible to further enhance the awakening effect by vibration stimulation.

  FIG. 24 is a diagram showing a vehicle arrangement relationship in the snooze driving prevention apparatus according to Embodiment 6 of the present invention. The feature of the sixth embodiment is that, in the same configuration as that of the fifth embodiment shown in FIG. 18, the driver seated in the driver's seat below the back of the driver's seat as shown in FIG. The seat vibrator 1801 is installed at a position where vibration stimulation is applied to the periphery of the lower back, and the rest is the same as in the fifth embodiment.

  Next, the operation of the sixth embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart showing the processing procedure of FIG. First, after executing the processing S2101 to S2105 similar to the operation procedure shown in FIG. 20, the vibration proposal processing (S2501) is executed. This vibration proposing process is a process of giving a vibration stimulus to the driver by the seat vibrator 1801 when a dialogue for proposing massage by waist vibration is performed to the driver and the driver desires waist vibration.

  This vibration proposing process is executed according to the flowchart shown in FIG. 26, and FIG. 27 shows an utterance example in the dialog flow at that time.

  In FIG. 26, first, a call is made to the driver with the speaker 1803 under the control of the dialogue control unit 1804, and a decrease in arousal level is detected, so that a call for proposing vibration stimulation by the seat vibrator 1801 is performed ( S2601). An example of a challenge utterance at this time is shown in IS2701 in FIG. Thereafter, the driver's speech is acquired by the microphone 1802 (S2602).

  Subsequently, the utterance content of the acquired driver is determined (S2603). As a result of the determination, if the driver's utterance content is not in the language group set in the dialog control unit 1804 in advance, the driver is called as having failed to recognize the utterance (S2604) and then shown in the previous S2601 Return to the process and repeat the same process. An example of a challenge utterance at this time is shown in IS2702 in FIG.

  If there is no utterance within the designated time preset in the dialogue control unit 1804, after calling the driver that there was no utterance within the designated time (S2605), the previous S2601 Returning to the process shown in FIG. An example of a challenge utterance at this time is shown in IS2703 in FIG.

  If the driver's utterance is a content that rejects the vibration proposal, a call is made to confirm the rejection of the proposal (S2606). A series of processing ends. An example of a challenge utterance at this time is shown in IS2704 in FIG.

  If the driver's utterance is a content requested by accepting a vibration proposal, after calling for confirmation of the vibration request (S2607), the seat vibrator 1801 gives the driver waist vibration. A stimulus is given (S2608). An example of a challenge utterance at this time is shown in IS2705 of FIG. The waist vibration stimulus given to the driver is continuously given to the main control unit 1805 for a preset period. By limiting the lumbar vibration stimulation to a certain time, it is possible to limit the reduction in the driver's arousal level due to the lumbar vibration stimulation to an extent that does not hinder driving.

  In the sixth embodiment, since the driver himself / herself requests the vibration given to the driver by the vibration means, the driver can favorably control the vibration.

  Further, since the driver vibrates around the waist of the driver, a comfortable vibration can be given to the driver, and the driver can have a favorable impression on the vibration stimulus.

Such an effect can be similarly obtained in Examples 7 to 8 described below.

  FIG. 28 is a diagram showing a vehicle arrangement relationship in the snooze driving prevention apparatus according to Embodiment 7 of the present invention. The feature of the seventh embodiment is that, in the same apparatus configuration as that of the fifth embodiment shown in FIG. 18, the driving seated on the driver's seat above the back of the driver's seat as shown in FIG. The seat vibrator 1801 is installed at both the position for giving vibration stimulation around the chest of the person and the position for giving vibration stimulation around the waist of the driver seated on the driver seat below the back of the driver seat. The stimulation intensity based on the difference of the vibration part can be selected according to the driver's arousal level state, and the others are the same as in the fifth embodiment.

  Next, the operation of the seventh embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart showing the processing procedure of FIG. First, after executing the processing S2101 to S2105 similar to the operation procedure shown in FIG. 20, the arousal level determination dialogue processing (S2901) is executed. This arousal level determination dialogue process is a process of appropriately giving a vibration stimulus according to the driver arousal level state to the driver by grasping the driver's arousal level state, which the driver is aware of, through dialogue.

  This arousal level determination dialogue process is executed according to the flowchart shown in FIG. 30, and an utterance example in the dialogue flow at that time is shown in FIG.

  In FIG. 30, first, a call is made to the driver through the speaker 1803 under the control of the dialogue control unit 1804, and a decrease in arousal level is detected. Multiplication is performed (S3001). An example of the challenge utterance at this time is shown in IS3101 in FIG. Thereafter, the driver's speech is acquired by the microphone 1802 (S3002).

  Subsequently, the utterance content of the acquired driver is determined (S3003). As a result of the determination, if the driver's utterance content is not in the language group previously set in the dialogue control unit 1804, the driver is called as having failed to recognize the utterance (S3004), and is shown in the previous S3001. Return to the process and repeat the same process. An example of the challenge utterance at this time is shown in IS3102 of FIG.

  In addition, when there is no utterance within a designated time set in advance in the dialogue control unit 1804, the driver's arousal level is significantly reduced because there is no response to the question due to the driver's utterance. After estimating and calling the driver to give a warning vibration (S3006), the seat vibrator 1801 gives the driver a vibration stimulus that periodically switches between chest vibration and waist vibration (S3006). An example of the challenge utterance at this time is shown in IS3103 in FIG. In this way, the system has recognized that the driver's arousal level is significantly reduced by driving the chest vibration and the waist vibration alternately to give the driver a vibration stimulus, which hinders driving. Can be strongly notified to the driver.

  If the driver's utterance is content that can be estimated that there is no decrease in the arousal level of the driver, a call is made to confirm that there is no self-recognition of the decrease in the driver's arousal level (S3007). The process ends. An example of the challenge utterance at this time is shown in IS3104 in FIG.

  In addition, if the driver's utterance is content that can be estimated to have a decrease in the degree of arousal of the driver, it is estimated that there is a self-recognition of the driver's arousal level, and chest stimulation is used as a stimulus for arousal An interrogation for informing what to do is performed (S3008). An example of the challenge utterance at this time is shown in IS3105 in FIG. Thereafter, a chest vibration stimulus is given to the driver from the seat vibrator 1801 (S3009), and a series of processing ends. The chest vibration stimulation is continuously given to the main control unit 1805 for a preset period. By limiting the chest vibration stimulation to a certain period of time, the driver's troublesomeness due to the chest vibration stimulation can be kept to an extent that does not hinder the driving operation.

  An example of the time change of the warning vibration shown in the process S3006 of FIG. 30 is shown in FIG. 32, where (a) shows chest vibration stimulation and (b) shows waist vibration stimulation.

  In FIG. 32, chest vibration stimulation is started at time Tb, waist vibration stimulation is started at time Ta (<Tb), and time Tc and time Td indicate times for switching vibration ON / OFF. In the way of applying the vibration stimulus shown in FIG. 32, the amount of vibration to be applied is linearly increased to the maximum value every time the vibration is turned on / off and the part to which the vibration stimulus is applied is switched. In this way, by repeatedly turning vibration on and off and further switching the vibration part, the driver can easily recognize the occurrence of the vibration stimulus, and the awakening effect by the vibration stimulus can be enhanced.

  In the seventh embodiment, the dialogue control means also determines the arousal level based on the driver's awareness, so that it is possible to prevent false alarms of vibration stimulation.

  In addition, since the vibration part of the driver to which the vibration stimulus is applied changes according to the application time of the vibration stimulus, the pleasure / discomfort of the vibration stimulus sensed by the driver can be changed according to the time, and the warning intensity is given to the driver. Can be notified.

  Such an effect can be similarly obtained in the eighth embodiment described below.

  FIG. 33 is a flowchart showing an operation procedure in the snooze driving prevention apparatus according to Embodiment 8 of the present invention. The apparatus configuration of the eighth embodiment is the same as that shown in FIG. 18, and the vehicle arrangement relationship is the same as that shown in FIG.

  Next, with reference to FIG. 33, the operation procedure of the eighth embodiment will be described. In FIG. 33, first, after executing the same process as the process S2001 shown in FIG. 20, the limit value of the driver arousal level that can be determined by the main control unit 1805 based on the detection result detected by the arousal level detection unit 101. Is initialized (S3301).

  Subsequently, an intermediate value between the reference value and the limit value initialized in the previous processing S2001 and processing S3301 is calculated and initialized (S3302). Subsequently, processes similar to the processes S2002, S2003, and S2004 shown in FIG. 20 are sequentially executed.

  Thereafter, the relationship between the arousal level determination value obtained in the previous S2004 and the reference value, limit value, and intermediate value is examined to determine the level of arousal level (degree of arousal level) (S3303). As a result of the determination, if the arousal level determination value is larger than the reference value initialized in S2001, the process returns to the previous process S2004 and the same process is repeated.

  If the arousal level determination value is equal to or smaller than the reference value initialized in S2001 and greater than the intermediate value initialized in S3302, the same process as the process S2501 shown in FIG. 25 is executed. To do.

  If the arousal level determination value is equal to or smaller than the intermediate value initialized in S3302 and larger than the limit value initialized in S3301, the same process as the process S2901 shown in FIG. 29 is executed. .

  If the arousal level determination value is equal to or smaller than the limit value initialized in S3301, the same process as the process S2006 shown in FIG. 20 is executed.

  Thus, by changing the combination of the vibration stimulus and the dialogue according to the degree of the driver's arousal level, it is possible to give the driver an appropriate stimulus according to the level of the driver's arousal level.

  In the eighth embodiment, since the vibration stimulus is applied and the content of the dialogue is changed according to the determination result of the arousal level determination, the vibration and the dialogue according to the degree of the driver's arousal level can be given. An appropriate vibration stimulus can be given to the driver according to the state of the vehicle.

It is a figure which shows the structure of the snooze driving | running | working prevention apparatus which concerns on Example 1 of this invention. It is a figure which shows the vehicle arrangement | positioning relationship of the apparatus which concerns on Example 1. FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the basic operation | movement process of the apparatus which concerns on Examples 1-4 of this invention. 4 is a flowchart illustrating an operation procedure according to the first embodiment of partial processing in the flowchart illustrated in FIG. 3. 4 is a flowchart illustrating an operation procedure according to the first embodiment of partial processing in the flowchart illustrated in FIG. 3. It is a flowchart which shows the operation | movement procedure which concerns on Example 1 of the partial process in the flowchart shown in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the operation | movement procedure which concerns on Example 1 of the partial process in the flowchart shown in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the operation | movement procedure which concerns on Example 1 of the partial process in the flowchart shown in FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating an operation procedure according to the first embodiment of partial processing in the flowchart illustrated in FIG. 3. It is a figure which shows the structure of the dozing driving prevention apparatus which concerns on Example 2 of this invention. It is a figure which shows the vehicle arrangement | positioning relationship of the apparatus which concerns on Example 2. FIG. FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating an operation procedure according to a second embodiment of a partial process in the flowchart illustrated in FIG. 3. It is a flowchart which shows the operation | movement procedure which concerns on Example 2 of the partial process in the flowchart shown in FIG. FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating an operation procedure according to a second embodiment of a partial process in the flowchart illustrated in FIG. 3. It is a flowchart which shows the operation | movement procedure which concerns on Example 3 of the partial process in the flowchart shown in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the operation | movement procedure which concerns on Example 3 of the partial process in the flowchart shown in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the operation | movement procedure which concerns on Example 4 of the partial process in the flowchart shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows the structure of the dozing driving prevention apparatus which concerns on Example 5 of this invention. It is a figure which shows the vehicle arrangement | positioning relationship of the apparatus which concerns on Example 5 of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the main procedure of the operation | movement process which concerns on Example 5 of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the partial process in the flowchart shown in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the dialogue flow in the process shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows the change of the vibration amount in the vibration given to a driver | operator. It is a figure which shows the vehicle arrangement | positioning relationship of the apparatus which concerns on Example 6 of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the main procedure of the operation | movement process which concerns on Example 6 of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the partial process in the flowchart shown in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the dialogue flow in the process shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows the vehicle arrangement | positioning relationship of the apparatus which concerns on Example 7 of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the main procedure of the operation | movement process which concerns on Example 6 of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the partial process in the flowchart shown in FIG. FIG. 31 is a flowchart showing a dialogue flow in the process shown in FIG. 30. FIG. It is a figure which shows the change of the vibration amount in the vibration given to a driver | operator. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the operation | movement process which concerns on Example 8 of this invention.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 101 ... Arousal level detection part 102 ... Control unit 103,1803 ... Speaker 104a, 104b ... Release switch 105a, 105b ... Light 106 ... Biosignal sensor 107 ... Face image taking camera 108 ... Steering angle sensor 109 ... Lateral G sensor 110 ... Running Road photographing camera 1001 ... Rotary release switch 1002 ... Display 1801 ... Seat vibrator 1802 ... Microphone 1804 ... Dialogue control unit 1805 ... Main control unit

Claims (29)

Wakefulness detection means for detecting the driver's wakefulness,
An alarm means that outputs an alarm to the driver and alerts the driver;
Alarm release means for releasing the alarm output by the alarm means;
Alarm release operation method presenting means for presenting a driver with a release operation method of the alarm release means when the alarm output by the alarm means is released by the alarm release means;
Based on the arousal level detected by the arousal level detection means, it is determined whether or not the alarm level is a level of arousal to output a warning to the driver, and the level of arousal level to output a warning to the driver If it is determined that the alarm is output to the driver by the alarm means, the release operation method for releasing the alarm is controlled by the alarm release means, and the alarm release operation method presenting means outputs an alarm after the alarm is output. A drowsiness prevention device comprising control means for presenting a release operation method. The alarm means is composed of vibration means for generating vibration and giving vibration stimulus to the driver,
The warning canceling means and the warning canceling operation method presenting means are constituted by dialog means for performing a dialog exchanged with the driver by utterance,
The snooze driving prevention apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit controls a vibration operation of the vibration unit. When the driver's arousal level is lower than a preset reference value, the vibration means gives a vibration stimulus to the driver, and the method for stopping the vibration means by the interactive action via the dialogue means is determined by the driver. 3. The snooze driving prevention apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the vibration stimulation by the vibration means is stopped only when the driver performs a cancellation dialogue set in advance. If the driver's arousal level is lower than a preset reference value, the driver asks the driver whether or not vibration stimulation is necessary through the dialogue means, and speaks that vibration stimulation is necessary. 3. The snooze driving prevention apparatus according to claim 2, wherein when the operation is performed, a vibration stimulus is given to the driver by the vibration means. When the driver's arousal level is lower than a preset reference value, a question is given to the driver to estimate the degree of arousal level via the dialogue means, and based on the driver's answer to this question It is determined whether or not the driver's arousal level is a level that requires a vibration stimulus, and when it is determined that the driver's arousal level requires a vibration stimulus, the driver is given a vibration stimulus. Item 3. The snooze driving prevention device according to item 2. The control means determines the driver's arousal level based on the detection result detected by the arousal level detection means, the timing for giving a vibration stimulus to the driver according to the arousal level, and the dialogue means The snooze driving prevention apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the content of the dialogue presented by the user is changed. The dormant driving prevention according to any one of claims 2, 3, 5, and 6, wherein the vibration means is installed on a back surface portion of a driver's seat and applies vibration stimulation around a driver's chest. apparatus. The dozing operation according to any one of claims 2, 4, 5, and 6, wherein the vibration means is installed below the back portion of the driver's seat and provides vibration stimulation around the waist of the driver. Prevention device. The vibration means is installed at the back of the driver's seat so as to give vibration stimulation around the driver's chest and below the back of the driver's seat so as to give vibration stimulation around the driver's waist. The doze driving prevention device according to any one of claims 2, 5, and 6, wherein the driver is provided with either or both vibration stimuli. The doze driving prevention device according to any one of claims 2, 3, 5, 6, and 7, wherein the control means periodically changes the vibration amount of the vibration generated by the vibration means. The said control means changes the amount of vibration according to the elapsed time after a vibration stimulus was given to the driver | operator, Any one of Claim 2, 3, 5, 6, 7, 10 characterized by the above-mentioned. The drowsiness prevention device described. The said control means changes the site | part of the driver | operator which gives a vibration stimulus according to the elapsed time after the vibration stimulus was given to the driver | operator, The any one of Claim 2, 5, 6, 9 characterized by the above-mentioned. The snooze driving prevention device described in 1. 2. The snooze driving prevention apparatus according to claim 1, wherein after the alarm is output, the alarm present amount gradually increases until the alarm is canceled by the alarm canceling unit. 14. The snooze driving prevention device according to claim 1, wherein the alarm canceling unit is disposed in an instrument panel portion of a vehicle that needs to be operated with a driver's hand reaching out intentionally. The drowsiness prevention device according to any one of claims 1, 13, and 14, wherein a plurality of the alarm release means are provided. The doze driving prevention device according to claim 14 or 15, wherein the alarm canceling means is arranged so as to be divided into left and right with a vehicle handle as a center. The alarm release operation method presenting means presents an effective alarm release means to the driver so that the driver can visually recognize an effective alarm release means capable of releasing the alarm among the plurality of alarm release means. The doze driving prevention device according to any one of claims 1, 13 to 16. The said control means selects and controls one said effective alarm canceling means which can cancel | release an alarm among the said alarm canceling means provided in multiple numbers, The any one of Claims 13, 13-17 characterized by the above-mentioned. The snooze driving prevention device described in 1. 19. The control unit according to claim 1, wherein the control unit changes an alarm canceling operation method of the alarm canceling unit based on an elapsed time since the output of the alarm is started. The drowsiness prevention device described. The control means changes an alarm canceling operation method of the alarm canceling means based on an elapsed time until the alarm is canceled by the alarm canceling means after the alarm is output and the alarm is output again. The doze driving prevention device according to any one of claims 1, 13 to 18. 21. The snooze driving prevention apparatus according to claim 19 or 20, wherein the control means randomly selects and changes an alarm cancellation operation method from a plurality of alarm cancellation operation methods. 21. The snooze driving prevention apparatus according to claim 19 or 20, wherein the control means changes at least one of an alarm release operation based on an operation time, an operation frequency, and an operation force of the alarm release means. The said control means cancels | releases the said alarm combining the cancellation | release operation by several said alarm cancellation | release means, and changes the combination of cancellation | release operation by the said some alarm cancellation | release means, It is characterized by the above-mentioned. A snooze driving prevention device. The doze driving prevention apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 23, wherein the arousal level detecting means directly detects the driver's awakening level based on a driver's biological signal. The doze driving prevention device according to any one of claims 1 to 23, wherein the arousal level detection means directly detects the driver's awakening level from a driver's face image. The doze driving prevention device according to any one of claims 1 to 23, wherein the arousal level detecting means indirectly detects the driver's awakening level by a driving operation of the driver. The doze driving prevention device according to any one of claims 1 to 23, wherein the arousal level detection means indirectly detects a driver's awakening level according to a running state of a vehicle driven by the driver. . 24. The doze according to any one of claims 1 to 23, wherein the arousal level detecting means indirectly detects the level of a driver's awakening based on a driving environment of the driver and a driving condition of the vehicle travel path. Driving prevention device. The awakening level means is:
Face image recognition means for directly sensing the driver's arousal level based on face image recognition technology;
Driving operation measuring means for indirectly sensing based on the driver's vehicle driving operation;
Vehicle state measuring means for sensing indirectly based on the state of the vehicle that the driver is driving,
The driving environment measuring means for sensing indirectly based on the driving environment of the vehicle operated by the driver and the driving condition of the vehicle driving path, at least one of the driving environment measuring means. The snooze driving prevention apparatus according to item 1.

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