FR3060775A1 - METHOD FOR DETERMINING A DISPLAY AREA OF AN ELEMENT IN A DISPLAY DEVICE - Google Patents

Abstract

A method for determining a display area (36) of at least one member (80, 82) on a display (22) in a vehicle (20). A first object (70) is recognized in the environment of the display (22) and a display area (36) is determined for that element (80, 82). The display area extends along a line (68) between the first recognized object (70) and a second object (72) serving as a reference in the plane of the display device (22). The element (80, 82) is shown in the display area (36) of the display device (22).

Description

Holder (s): ROBERT BOSCH GMBH.

Extension request (s)

Agent (s): CABINET HERRBURGER.

154) METHOD FOR DETERMINING A DISPLAY AREA OF AN ELEMENT IN A DISPLAY DEVICE.

FR 3 060 775 - A1

Method for determining a display area (36) of at least one element (80, 82) on a display device (22) in a vehicle (20). A first object (70) is recognized in the environment of the display device (22) and a display area (36) is determined for this element (80, 82). The display area extends along a line (68) between the first recognized object (70) and a second object (72) serving as a reference in the plane of the display device (22). The element (80, 82) is shown in the display area (36) of the display device (22).

Purpose of the invention

The present invention relates to a method and a device for determining a display area of an element in a display device.

State of the art

Head-up display devices (also called HUD display device or system) are generally known. These are display systems that project information into the field of vision of a user, for example, the driver of a vehicle.

Document DE 11 2014 002 804 T5 describes a vehicle interior display device. According to this device, an obstacle recognition circuit detects an obstacle around the vehicle. An image circuit represents a display segment. A display segment represents an obstacle image showing the obstacle recognized by the obstacle recognition or detection circuit in a certain area in the lower part of the windshield.

Presentation and advantages of the invention

The subject of the present invention is a method for determining a display area of at least one element on a display device, this method being characterized in that it comprises the following steps consisting in recognizing a first object in the environment of the display device, determining a display area for at least one element, the display area for representing at least one element on the display device extending along a line between a first recognized object and a second object serving as a reference in the plane of the display device and representing at least one element in the display area of the display device.

The representation of at least one element in the display area determined on the display device offers the advantage of displaying information for the user, that is to say the driver of the vehicle on the display device. display by presenting them in the environment. This allows the observer (user or driver) to establish the connection between the display and the first object recognized in the environment. The user can thus associate the information displayed on the display device with the objects thus recognized in the environment, in a simple and / or rapid manner, which reduces the reaction time of the user. Advantageously, this reduces the workload and reciprocally increases the user's attention and concentration. If the user is the driver of the vehicle, this solution has the advantage that the driver perceives the environment better and can react quickly to respond to risks or dangers.

Another advantage of the invention is that the display device is simple and its size is reduced.

According to an advantageous development, in the recognition step, the type to which the first object corresponds is detected. In addition and preferably, at least one element is represented in the representation step, according to the type recognized for the first object. This gives the user additional information regarding the type of object.

For example, the object recognized in the environment is, for example, a vehicle which, depending on the display, is appropriately displayed in the form of a vehicle symbol. The observer thus has a quick view of the object or objects or of the type of object which are in the environment of the display device. The type of object is determined, for example, using the vehicle's video camera and a recognition program.

The display area of the element depends at least on information. Advantageously, this element is represented according to the information in the display area. If the display device is fitted to a vehicle, then the information is in particular information concerning the state of the vehicle and / or information coming from a vehicle security system. In other words, the element is represented in a display area of the display device and this display area depends on the state of the vehicle or on information provided by the vehicle security system. This has a very positive influence on the driver’s attention and concentration. The driver receives, via the display device, other information concerning the state of the vehicle and / or the state of the security system. Thus, the observer, that is to say the user, will be more easily oriented in the display device, which promotes awareness of the situation by the user or the observer. It also reduces the reaction time of the user.

Vehicle condition information is, for example, information that indicates that the vehicle is in a locality, on a road or highway, or that the vehicle is, for example, in a traffic jam. Information from the vehicle security system is, inter alia, information relating to warnings relating to the object or to pedestrians, information from a lane keeping assistant and / or the speed stabilization assistant .

A development is that of information concerning information via a vehicle driving safety system, to limit in a traffic lane with a limit on the left and a limit on the right. This element is preferably represented between and / or on the limits of the corridor. Thus, the observer or the user will more easily orient themselves on the display device because at least one element depends on the information provided by the driving safety system of the vehicle for the limitation in the traffic lane.

According to another step of determining the display area of the display device, the display area is advantageously determined over a limited area in the plane of the display device. Thus, at least one element will be represented, for example only in a limited area of the display device. This characteristic is advantageous if part of the display area of the display device must be available for other information or be used for displaying other information, for example, vehicle status information such as its speed, the maximum authorized speed, navigation indications, information from the security system and / or information concerning the condition of the vehicle.

According to one development, in the determination step, the position of an element is determined according to the display device as a function of the position of the first recognized object and / or as a function of the distance between the first recognized object and the second object. serving as a reference. This type of representation of at least one element on the display device facilitates for the observer or the user, the connection that he will make between the display and the object recognized in the environment. The user can associate the elements of the display device in a simple way with the objects in the environment, which reduces the reaction time and the workload of the user.

According to a development, in the determination step, the dimensions / size of the element on the display device is calculated as a function of the position of the first recognized object and / or as a function of the distance between the first recognized object and the second object serving as a reference and / or according to the dimensions of the first recognized object. This type of representation of at least one element on the display device facilitates for the observer or the user, the connection between the user, the establishment of the link between the display and the object recognized in the environment. The user can associate the elements of the display device in a simple way with the objects in the environment, which reduces the reaction time of the user and his workload.

Advantageously, a first element and a second element are shown on the display device. The first element is shown closer to the origin of the line on the display as opposed to the second element. By representing at least two elements, it is possible to represent detailed information of the object recognized in the environment as well as of the direction in which the object is in the environment according to the display device.

Preferably, using the first element, we represent the type of the first object and using the second element we represent the direction of the first object and / or an alert symbol. Thus, it is guaranteed that the user or the observer will receive both the information relating to the object and the information relating to the direction towards the first object recognized in the environment. This will allow the user to more easily associate the elements of the display device with objects in the environment, which reduces the reaction time of the user.

The invention also relates to a display device which comprises a display unit for representing at least one element. This element is represented as a function of a first object recognized in the environment of the display device. In addition, the element is represented on the display device in a display area which, to represent the element on the display device, extends along a line between the first recognized object and a second object serving as a reference, in the plane of the display device. Advantageously, the user of the display device or the driver of the vehicle can represent using an element, information on the display device, in relation to the environment. The user or the observer can thus make the link between the display and the first object recognized in the environment so that the user will more simply and / or more quickly make the link between the information presented of the object. thus recognized in the environment. In addition, the user's reaction time will be reduced and their attention and concentration increased. This has the advantage, if the user is the driver of a vehicle, that the latter will be able to perceive the environment better and the risks more quickly.

Another advantage of the invention is that the display system is simpler and less bulky than the known means.

Drawings

The present invention will be described below, using examples of system methods for determining a display area of an element in a display device shown in the accompanying drawings in which:

Figure 1 is a schematic representation in top view of a vehicle with a display device corresponding to an embodiment of the present invention, Figure 2 is a schematic representation of a part of a vehicle with a display head up according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, FIG. 3 shows the flowchart of a method according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, FIG. 4 is a schematic representation of the line between two objects according to an example of embodiment of the invention, FIG. 5 is a schematic representation of at least one element on a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, FIG. 6 is a schematic representation of at least one element according to a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, FIG. 7 is a schematic representation of at least one element according to a device display according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, FIG. 8 is a schematic representation of at least one element according to a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, FIG. 9 is a schematic representation of at least at least one element according to a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, FIG. 10 is a schematic representation of at least one element according to a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, FIG. 11 is a schematic representation of at least one element according to a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, FIG. 12 is a schematic representation of at least one element according to a display device according to an example of embodiment of the invention, FIG. 13 is a schematic representation of at least one element according to a display device according to an example ple embodiment of the invention, Figure 14 is a schematic representation of at least one element according to a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, Figure 15 is a schematic representation of at least one element on two display devices according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, FIG. 16 schematically shows an element on a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, FIG. 17 schematically shows an element on a display device display according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, FIG. 18 schematically shows an element on a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, FIG. 19 schematically shows an element on a display device according to a exemplary embodiment of the invention,

Description of embodiments of the invention

FIG. 1 shows an embodiment of a vehicle 20 shown diagrammatically in plan view, for example, a motor vehicle equipped with a display device 22. The display device 22 is, for example, an LCD device installed in the vehicle 20 so that the observer 24 can see the display device 22 giving information to the observer 24. This transmitted information is, for example, information concerning the state of the vehicle such as the speed, the engine speed and / or fuel level and / or navigation information and / or driving safety system information and / or leisure system information. As a variant, the display device 22 can also be installed in the central console of the vehicle 20.

FIG. 2 shows a part of the vehicle 20 with the display device 22. The vehicle 20 is driven by a driver 24. In this embodiment, the display device 22 is in the form of a head-up display. The display device 22 represents in the vision range of the driver 24 an image visible by the driver 24 on a virtual screen 26. The display device 22 for this purpose comprises an image generating unit 30, for example, a image generator (also called PGU unit) and at least one optical installation 32 such as HUD head-up optics with, for example, at least one mirror. The image generating unit 30 is, for example, an LCD device which projects with a lens 32 and the windshield 34 of the vehicle or a combiner with light rays 28, an image on the virtual screen 26 which appears in front the vehicle 20. The image is superimposed on the environment of the vehicle 20 and includes information corresponding to the information in FIG. 1 for the driver 24 or the observer. The image makes it possible, for example, to represent speed information of the vehicle 20 as well as information concerning the maximum authorized speed. Driving safety system information, such as, for example, cruise control information and navigation information is also shown. This information in particular informs the driver 24 of the state of the vehicle. The head-up display makes it possible to represent this information in a combined manner with the environment, which allows the observer 24 to always see the environment or to concentrate more quickly again on the road traffic although he would like at the same time time inquire about the condition of the vehicle.

FIG. 3 shows a flowchart of a method 46 for determining a display area 36 of at least one element on a display device 22. In the first step 48, data is determined. To generate the data, it is possible, for example, to use sensors already installed in the vehicle 20. These sensors make it possible, among other things, to determine the distance of a recognized object relative to the position of a second object serving as a reference, by example, the vehicle 20 or the display device 22 as well as the lateral offset of the recognized object, for example, the lateral offset with respect to the direction of travel of the vehicle. Examples of possible sensors are among others video cameras, ultrasonic sensors, radar sensors and / or lidar sensors. It is also possible to use a combination of sensors, for example, a radar sensor to determine the position of the object as well as a video camera to determine an object type. You can also compare different sensor data to verify the data.

The data is transmitted to an object entry unit 50. This object entry unit 50 processes the data received. The object entry unit 50 performs the following steps 52-55. In the second step 52 of the method 46, a first object is recognized or grasped in the environment of the display device 22. The objects are, for example, other participants in road traffic such as vehicles, cyclists and / or pedestrians and / or animals and / or objects such as buildings, trees, signs and others. In the third step 53, the position of the recognized object is determined in the environment of the display device 22. The recognized position of the first object is determined relative to the position of a second object serving as a reference, for example, an observer or, for example, the display device 22. In the fourth step 54, for example, using the video supplied by a video camera, the first recognized object is classified, and / or the type of the object is determined. first object recognized. For this, in a fifth step 55, the level of relevance of the object recognized on the display device 22 is determined. The objects relevant for the representation on the display device 22 are, for example, other participants in road traffic and which are in the detection zone of the vehicle 20, upstream of the vehicle 20, such as vehicles, cyclists and / or pedestrians, or animals which may represent a risk for the vehicle, such as, for example example, wild animals. According to another solution, among the recognized objects which may be relevant, there are those which are on the braking trajectory of the vehicle 20, upstream of the vehicle 20. As an example, they may be objects recognized as relevant and which are thus represented on the display device 22 while being in the zone in the form of a truncated cone upstream of the vehicle 20; the height of the truncated cone-shaped zone represents the braking stroke of the vehicle 20 and the cone widens as one moves away from the vehicle.

An object relevant to the representation by the display device 22 is, for example, as a variant or in addition, an object serving as an object of regulation of a driving safety system. In other words, an object can be relevant if it is used by a driving safety system and / or if it represents an entry for a driving safety system. By way of example, a relevant object is a regulating object for a dynamic cruise control, a lane keeping assistant, a pedestrian warning system and / or a parking and / or parking storage system. other driving safety systems.

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In a sixth step 56, it is decided whether the recognized object is relevant and whether it must therefore be represented with the display device 22. If the object recognized in the environment of the vehicle 20 is not relevant, in the seventh step 57 the process 46 is stopped and / or restarted. If the object recognized in the environment of the vehicle 20 is relevant, the information which has been supplied by the sensors and which has been processed by the object input unit 50 is transmitted. This transmission is made to a unit of object display 60.

In the object display unit 60, the following steps 58, 59, 61 are carried out. Using the determined relative position of the object which was determined in the third step 53, in an eighth step 58, the line between the first recognized object and a second object serving as a reference is calculated.

The second object serving as a reference is, for example, the observer 24 of the display device 22, the driver 24, the passenger and / or another passenger of the vehicle or the display device 22 or an element displayed in the display or part of the vehicle. To calculate the line in the eighth step 58, one can, for example, use the coordinates of the first object recognized in a coordinate system whose origin is the second object serving as a reference. The calculated line is preferably the virtual line and can also be called the visual line.

In a ninth step 59 which is carried out in the object display unit 60, the line is transformed by calculation, in the plane of the display device 22. In other words, the line is copied to the plane of the display device 22. In this ninth step 59, a display area is also determined. This display area is used to represent at least one element on the display device 22 along the line calculated between the first recognized object and the second object serving as a reference on the plane of the display device 22. En d ' in other words, the display area for representing at least one element extends on the display device 22 along the line shown in the plane of the display device 22. The element is represented in the display area. display on the display device 22.

In the tenth step 61, at least one element is represented in the display device 22 designed as a display area; the display area extends along the line between the first recognized object and the second object serving as a reference in the plane of the display device.

Figure 4 schematically shows a line between two objects. Line 68 connects the first recognized object 70 and the second object 72 serving as a reference, which is calculated according to the method of FIG. 3 and which is represented in FIG. 4. The first recognized object 70 is, for example , another participant in road traffic, for example, another vehicle preceding vehicle 20, a cyclist or a pedestrian. The second object serving as a reference is, for example, the observer 24 of the display device 22, the driver 24, the passenger and / or a passenger of the vehicle or the display device 22 or an element represented in the display part of the vehicle. The length of the line 68 is obtained, for example, according to the rectangular triangle and by applying the simple formula in which c is the length of the line 68:

c = 7 (" ² + £ ² )

In this formula a is the shortest distance 74 between the second object 72 serving as a reference and the first recognized object 70 in the direction of movement of the vehicle 20. b is the lateral offset 76 of the second object 72 serving as a reference with respect to the first recognized object 70 in the direction of movement of the vehicle 20. The distances a and b make a right angle between it 78. The coordinates necessary for the representation of the image are calculated by an orthogonal projection consequently, by the projection or the image of a point on a line or in a plane.

Figure 5 shows at least one element on a display device 22 in a display area 36. According to the method of Figure 3 and the line 68 of Figure 4 shown in the plane of the display device 22, between the first recognized object 70 and the second object 72 serving as a reference, for example, for the observer, FIG. 5 represents a line 68 in dotted lines. Using the line 68 drawn in the plane of the display device 22, the display area 36 is determined or defined on the display device 22. In this embodiment, the display area 36 extends along line 68, preferably in the form of a strip on either side of line 68 and delimited by two other lines 64, 66. The other two lines 64, 66 are parallel to the line 68; the second other line 64 is at a defined distance, to the right of line 68 on the display device 22 and the third other line 68 is at a defined distance, to the left of line 68 on the display device 22. Preferably, both the second other line 64 and also the third other line 66 are at the same distance from the line 68. In other words, the display area 36 extends like a strip along the line 68. The second other line 64 as well as the third other line 66 constitute only limits of representation of at least one element.

Preferably, the longitudinal direction or longitudinal orientation of the display area 36 along the line 68 is longer than the transverse direction or transverse orientation. In other words, the length of the display area 36 along the line 68 to the first recognized object 70 is greater than the width of the display area 36 in the direction perpendicular to the line 68.

At least one element is shown in the display area 36. In this advantageous embodiment, two elements 80, 82 are shown on the display device 22 in the display area 36 along the line 68. A first element 80 is shown closer to the origin 69 of line 68 than the second element 82. In other words, the first element 80 as well as the second element 82 are represented in the defined display area 36, consequently, between the second other line 64 and the third other line 66. Thus, the elements 80, 82 are shown in a similar angular manner. The positions of the two elements on the display device 22 are defined by the angle of the first recognized object 70 relative to the second object 72 serving as a reference relative to the direction of circulation.

Preferably, using the first element 80, we represent a type of the first recognized object 70 and using the second element 82, we represent the direction of the first recognized object. Thus, the driver 72 of the vehicle 20 will continuously know which object 70 or what type of object is in the direction of movement upstream of the vehicle 20 as well as the direction in which the first object 70 is located relative to the position of the conductor 72 or of the display device 22. The elements 80, 82 can be represented, for example, by simple geometric shapes, pictograms, complex realizations, 3D models and / or by the combination of different types of representation of so that the nature of the representation of the elements 80, 82 provides additional information to the observer 24 or to the driver.

In addition, other details such as the size, color and shape of the elements 80, 82 can be varied. If the defined thresholds are exceeded up or down, the elements or the representation of the elements on the display device 22 may vary, for example, color and / or size, which allows user 24 to process the information represented more quickly. For example, the red color of a signal warns the driver 72 of an imminent risk if the object is too close to the vehicle and / or approaches the vehicle too quickly.

Figure 6 shows a representation of at least one element on a display device 22 in a display area. The line 68 determined according to the method of FIG. 3 as well as of FIG. 4, between the first recognized object 70 and the second object 72 serving as a reference is represented by a dotted line 68 in FIG. 6. The display area extends on the display device 22 along the line 68. According to FIG. 5, two elements 80, 82 are preferably shown on the display device 22 along the line 68.

In this development, there are represented by several arrows, the vertical and horizontal offsets of the elements 80, 82 on the display device 22. By sliding the elements 80, 82 in the vertical direction relative to the display device 22 and the observer 72, one can, for example, represent the distance between the first object 70 and observer 72. If the first recognized object 70 moves in the vertical direction away from the display device 22, consequently following the first arrow 85, this will move the line 68 between the first object 70 and the second object 72. Consequently, the elements 80, 82 will be shifted upward along the verticals relative to the display device 22 and relative to the observer 72 on the display device 22; thus the elements 80, 82 adapt to the movement of the first object 70 and consequently of the line 68. The second element 82 is moved upwards relative to the display device 22 and to the observer according to the second arrow 89 on the display device 22. The first element 80 moves upwards relative to the display device 22 and to the observer according to the third arrow 93 on the display device 22.

If the first recognized object 70 moves in the vertical direction towards the display device 22 and consequently according to the fourth arrow 87, this displaces the line 68 between the first object 70 and the second object 72. Consequently, the elements 80 , 82 are moved down in the vertical direction, relative to the display device 22 and to the observer 72 on the display device 22 so that the elements 80, 82 adapt to the movement of the first object 70 and thus from line 68. The second element 82 is moved downward relative to the display device 22 and to the observer according to the fifth arrow 91 of the display device 22. The first element 80 is also moved towards the low relative to the display device 22 and to the observer according to the sixth arrow 95 on the display device 22.

If the first recognized object 70 moves along a horizontal direction to the right with respect to the display device 22 and the observer and thus, according to the seventh arrow 86, this will move the line 68 between the first object 70 and the second object 72. Consequently, the elements 80, 82 will be moved in the horizontal direction relative to the display device 22 as well as from the observer 72 on the display device 22, to the right; thus, the elements 80, 82 adapt to the movement of the first object 70 and consequently to the movement of the line 68. The second element 82 is moved to the right relative to the display device 22 and to the observer according to the eighth arrow 90 on the display device 22. The first element 80 is also moved to the right relative to the display device 22 and to the observer according to the ninth arrow 94 on the display device 22.

If the first recognized object 70 moves along the horizontal direction to the left with respect to the display device 22 and the observer, and consequently, according to the tenth arrow 88, the line 68 between the first object 70 and the second object 72 will be moved. Consequently, the elements 80, 82 are slid to the left along the horizontal direction relative to the display device 22 as well as to the observer 72 on the display device 22, being moved to the left so that the elements 80, 82 adapt to the movement of the first object 70 and consequently of the line 68. The second element 82 is moved to the left relative to the display device 22 and to the observer according to the eleventh arrow 92 on the display device 22. The first element 80 is also moved to the left according to the eleventh arrow 92 on the display device 22. The first element 80 is moved to the left relative to the display device 22 and the observer according to the twelfth arrow 96 on the display device 22.

Line 68 is used to present in a simplified manner, but preferably it does not appear on the display device 22.

Furthermore, in this development, a third element 84 has been shown as a reference element which is fixed or integral with the display device 22. In other words, the third element 84 is always shown in the same position on the device display 22. The third element 84 serves in particular as a reference or orientation for the observer, to determine the position or movement of the display device 22 relative to the first recognized object 70.

If the observer leaves the area in which the image is displayed, in other words, if the observer moves and leaves his eyepiece box, in which the image is represented by the display device 22 in the head-up display, then the image of the display device 22 will no longer be completely visible to the observer because of the position of his head. The representation of at least two elements on the display device guarantees that the observer will always see an element if necessary so that the information concerning the first object 70 known or entered in the environment can always be transmitted partially to the observer. This increases security.

Figure 7 shows a representation of at least one element on a display device 22 in the display area. FIG. 7a presents a first image of the display device 22; in Figure 7b shows a second image of the display device 22; the second image according to FIG. 7b is posterior to the first image according to FIG. 7a for its obtaining or its representation. The first image according to FIG. 7a and the second image according to FIG. 7b are consequently represented successively on the display device 22; the first object 70 and consequently the elements 80, 82 will have moved in the representation of FIG. 7b relative to that of the first FIG. 7a.

In FIG. 7a as well as in FIG. 7b, the dotted line 68 is represented from an origin point 97; the origin point is 97 is fixed on the display device 22. The height at which the origin point 97 is hooked to the display device 22 is fixed inter alia by means of a vertical auxiliary line 99 In this embodiment, the vertical auxiliary line 99 and thus the origin 97 are in the lower zone of the display device 22 relative to an observer; in other words, this is provided in the region of the lower edge of the display device 22. The point of origin 97 serves as a reference point for orienting the conductor on the display device 22. A horizontal line 98 subdivides the display device 22 in two parts. In this embodiment, the horizontal line 98 divides the display device 22 into two parts of the same dimensions; however, it is possible to have a horizontal auxiliary line which divides the whole into two parts of different dimensions. The point of intersection of the horizontal auxiliary line 98 with the vertical line 99 gives the point of origin 97 of the line 68. This point of origin 97 preferably represents the second object serving as a reference, making it easier, for example, to the observer of the display device 22 the orientation relative to this display device 22.

The display area of the two elements 80, 82 extends along line 68. The position of elements 80, 82 on line 68 depends on the position of the first object, for example, another vehicle, in the environment of the display device 22 which is represented by the elements 80, 82 on the display device 22.

If the first object moves in the environment of the display device 22 relative to a second object serving as a reference, for example, relative to the observer of the display device 22, then the representation of the elements 80, 82 on the display device 22 also varies. Both the line 68 and also the elements 80, 82 are moved according to the movement of the first object on the display device 22 according to FIG. 6. In this embodiment, the first object moves to the left in the direction traffic relative to the vehicle. Thus, according to FIG. 7b, the first element 80 is shown shifted to the left according to arrow 102 and the second element 82 will be moved to the left according to arrow 100 on the display device. The position of the original 97 has not changed.

Figure 8 shows, like Figure 7, a detail view of at least one element on a display device 22 in a display area. As in Figure 7a and Figure 7b, Figure 8a shows a first image of the display device 22 and Figure 8b shows a second image of the display device 22; the second image according to FIG. 8b is posterior to the first image according to FIG. 8a.

The line 68 as well as the origin 97 are shown in FIG. 8a on the display device 22 as in FIG. 7a. In this embodiment, the first object moves away in the environment of the display device 22 relative to the second object serving as a reference, for example, the observer of the display device 22. The distance from the first object by compared to the second object thus increases. Consequently, the dimension of the first object 80 and that of the second object 82 are modified on the display device 22 of FIG. 8b. As the first object moves away from the second object serving as a reference, the elements 80, 82 will be shown smaller in FIG. 8b than the elements 80, 82 of FIG. 8a. In addition the first element 80 along the line 68 is offset from the origin 97. This signals to the observer that the first object is distant in the environment of the display device 22, that is to say of the vehicle. The position of the origin 97 has not changed, however. According to a development, the second element 82 can also be moved along the line 68 towards the origin 97. The lateral offset and thus the direction of the first object relative to the display device 22 or relative to the observer of the display device 22 are not changed here.

According to another development, the first recognized object moves towards the second object. The distance between the first object and the second object also decreases. Consequently also the dimensions of the first element 80 and those of the second element 82 change on the display device 22 of FIG. 8b. As the first object approaches the second reference object, the elements 80, 82 have been shown with larger dimensions in FIG. 8b than the elements 80, 82 in FIG. 8a. In addition, the first element 80 is offset along the line 68 towards the point of origin 97. This signals to the observer that the first object is moving closer to the display device 22 or the vehicle in the 'environment. The position of origin point 97 has not changed, however. According to another development, the second element 82 can also be offset along line 68 towards the point of origin 97.

If the first recognized object continues to approach the vehicle, the first element 80 will be moved further down the line 68 towards the origin 97. According to one development, in the event of a downward overstepping of a determined distance between the first element 80 and origin 97 we can perform, for example, an action. The color of the element shown on the display device 22 may be changed and / or a warning signal or an audible signal may be emitted. In addition, the information can be transmitted to a vehicle control device so as to activate, for example, a vehicle braking operation and / or trigger occupant and / or pedestrian protection measures.

Figure 9 and Figure 7 show at least one element on the display device 22 in a display area. As in FIGS. 7a and 8b, in FIG. 9a there is a first image of the display device 22 and in FIG. 9b a second image of the display device 22; the second image according to FIG. 9b was obtained and / or represented after the first image according to FIG. 9a on the display device 22.

In FIG. 9a and in FIG. 9b, the dotted line 68 has been represented from the origin. The height at which the origin is fixed on the display device 22 is indicated inter alia by a vertical auxiliary line 99. A horizontal auxiliary line 98 divides the display device 22 into two halves. The intersection of the horizontal auxiliary line 98 with the vertical auxiliary line 99 gives the origin of the line 68 and consequently represents the first element 80. The position of the horizontal auxiliary line 98 on the display device 22 can be determined for example using the position of the first object recognized in the environment, for example, on the path in the traffic corridor.

The display area of the two elements 80, 82 extends along the line 68. The position of the elements 80, 82 on the line 68 depends on the position of the first object, for example another vehicle in the environment of the display device 22 which is represented by elements 80, 82 on the display device 22.

The display area on the display device 22 for presenting the elements 80, 82 preferably depends on information supplied by the vehicle security system. The information provided by the vehicle security system can be, for example, such as object or pedestrian warning information, that of a lane departure assistant called a lane keeping assistant and / or the cruise control assistant. According to one development, the information is information from a vehicle security system to limit the trace by a right limit and a left limit of a corridor.

In Figure 9a and Figure 9b there is shown the lane or track of the vehicle inside which the vehicle travels in the direction of traffic. A first limit 104 represents the left limit of the traffic lane and consequently the left limit of the vehicle track as well as a second limit 106 which represents the right limit of the traffic lane and consequently, the right limit of the track of the vehicle.

In Figure 9a, the Lane Keeping Assistant is not activated. The first element 80 is therefore represented between the limits of the track. The second element 82 is shown in the display area which extends along the line 68, independently of the left limit 104 and the right limit 106 of the taxiway.

In Figure 9b the lane crossing or lane keeping assistant is activated so that the vehicle is held actively in the lane and therefore within the limits. By activating the holding assistant in the corridor, the first element 80 and consequently the origin of the line 68 are represented as a function of the corridor limits, here the left limit 104 and the right limit 106. The first element 80 is represented on one of the corridor boundaries 104, 106. The representation of the first element 80 on one of the corridor boundaries 104, 106 also depends on the position of the first recognized object in the environment of the display device 22 In this embodiment, the first element 80 is shown on the first left corridor limit 104 because the first recognized object is actually closer to the first left limit 104 than to the second right limit 106. Another criterion is that of knowing in which half is the second element 82 on the display device 22 if the display device is divided into two parts of the same dimensions. In this embodiment, the second element 82 is shown on the left half of the display device 22 and consequently the first element 80 is shown on the first left limit 104 of the corridor.

FIG. 10 shows a representation of a first element 80, a second element 82, a third element 110 and a fourth element 112 on the display device 22. The first line 68 is represented from the origin 97 according to FIG. 7a; the origin 97 is positioned in a fixed position on the display device 22. The display area of the first element 80 as well as of the second element 82 extends along line 68. The position of the first element 80 and that of the second element 82 on line 68 depends on the position of the first recognized object, for example, of another vehicle in the environment of the display device 22 which is represented by the two elements 80, 82 on the device display 22.

In the environment of the vehicle or of the display device 22, another third object is recognized which is represented by the third element 110 and the fourth element 112 on the display device 22. For this, a second line is shown in dotted 108 between the other third object and the second object serving as a reference, starting from the same origin 97 of the first dotted line 68. The third element 110 and the fourth element 112 are represented in a display area which s 'extends along the second line 108. According to a development, one could recognize another fourth object which is represented by means of another element on the display device 22.

In Figure 11 there is shown a first element 80 and a second element 82 on the display device 22 in the display area. The display area of the elements 80, 82 is preferably determined on a limited area 114 or on a limited area 114 in the plane of the display device 22. The limited area 114 is marked by a broken line. The elements 80, 82 are shown only in the limited area 114 on the display device. This solution is advantageous if part of the display area of the display device must be available for other information or must be used to represent, for example, vehicle status information such as vehicle speed, speed, maximum authorized speed, navigation instructions, information concerning the driving safety system and / or information concerning a vehicle condition. The limited area 114, preferably rectangular of this embodiment, is smaller than the display device 22 and it is located in the middle of the plane of the display device 22. Similarly, the limited area 114 may also be located in the upper zone or in the lower zone of the display device 22 as well as in the right or left zone of the display device 22. The dotted line 68 is drawn according to FIG. 7a from the origin 97 in the zone limited 114; the origin 97 is fixed in the limited area 114. The display area of the two elements 80, 82 extends along the line 68 in the limited area 114. The position of the elements 80, 82 on the line 68 of the limited area

114 depends on the position of the first recognized object, for example another vehicle in the environment of the display device 22 which is represented by elements 80, 82 on the display device 22.

In Figure 12 as in Figure 11 there is shown a first element 80 and a second element 82 on a display device 22 in a display area. The display area is preferably determined over a limited area of the plane of the display device. Thus, the elements 80, 82 are shown only in a limited area 114 on the display device. This solution is advantageous if part of the display area of the display device must be available for other information or must be used for this purpose.

Unlike FIG. 11, in the case of FIG. 12, the first element 80 and the second element 82 are shown in different zones or limited surfaces 114, 115. The origin 97 as well as the first element 80 are represented in a first limited area 114; the first rectangular limited area 114 is smaller than the display device 22 and is located in the middle of the display device. The first element 80 and the second element 82 are shown in a display area which extends along line 68. As another criterion, the second element 82 is shown in a third limited area 115; this third limited area 115 extends along the edge on all sides of the display device 22. In this development, between the first limited area 114 and the second limited area

115 there is another zone 116 in which no element is represented. In other words, between the first limited area 114 and the second limited area 115, there remains an interval 116 in which no element is represented. As a variant, the second limited area 115 can directly join the first limited area 114 so as not to have a free limited area 116.

FIG. 13 is a representation of a first element 80, a second element 82, a third element 110 as well as a fourth element 112 on a display device 22. The display area of the elements is preferably determined on two delimited surfaces 118, 120 in the plane of the display device. Thus, the elements 80, 82 are only shown in a limited area 114 on the display device.

The first element 80 and the second element 82 are shown in the first limited area 118 on the display device. The dotted line 68 begins at the origin 97 according to FIG. 7a; the origin 97 is a fixed point in the first limited area 118 on the display device 22. The display area of the two elements 80, 82 extends along the line 68. The position of the first element 80 and of the second element 82 on line 68 depends on the position of the first recognized object, for example, of a vehicle in the environment of the display device 22 represented by the elements 80, 82 on the display device 22.

In the environment of the vehicle or of the display device 22 there is a third recognized object which is represented by the third element 110 and the fourth element 112 on the display device 22 in the second limited area 120. Thus, we have shown a second dotted line 108 between the third recognized object and a second object serving as a reference, this line being drawn from the second point of origin 122 in the second limited area 120. The third element 110 as well as the fourth element 112 are shown in a display area which extends along the second line 108 in the second limited area 120.

In this embodiment, both the first limited area 118 and the second limited area 120 have a rectangular surface and these limited areas 118, 120 are side by side in the display device 22. The limited areas 118, 120 are marked by broken lines. In this development, the two limited zones 118, 120 do not overlap and both the height and the width of the two limited zones 118, 120 are less than the height and the width of the display device 22. In this embodiment, the two delimited areas 118, 120 are of the same dimensions.

FIG. 14 shows a representation of a first element 80, a second element 82, a third element 110 and a fourth element 112 on the display device 22. The zone for displaying the elements is, preferably on two surfaces limited in the plane of the display device. Thus, the elements 80, 82 are only represented in a limited area 118 of the display device 22. The first element 80 and the second element 82 are represented in a first limited area 118 of the display device. The dotted line 68 comes from the origin 97 according to FIG. 7a; the origin 97 is a fixed point of the display device 22. The origin 97 is outside the first limited area 118. The display area of the two elements 80, 82 extends along the line 68 .

In the environment of the vehicle, that is to say of the display device 22, another third object has been recognized which is represented by the third element 110 and the fourth element 112 on the display device 22 in a second limited area 120. For this, a second dotted line 108 has been drawn between the third recognized object and the second object serving as a reference, starting from the origin 97 of line 68. The third element 110 and the fourth element 112 are shown in a display area which extends along the second line 108 as well as in the second limited area 120.

In this embodiment, both the first limited area 118 and the second limited area 120 are rectangular surfaces like the limited area of Figure 13; the limited areas 118, 120 are juxtaposed in the display device 22. The limited areas 118, 120 are defined by dashed lines. In this development, the two limited zones 118, 120 do not overlap.

FIG. 15 shows a representation of a first element 80, a second element 82 and a third element 83 on the display device 22. The dotted line 68 is represented from the origin 97 as in the Figure 7a; the origin 97 is a fixed point of the display device 22. The difference in FIG. 15 compared to FIG. 7a is that, for the first object recognized, three corresponding elements have been shown on the display device 22 in the display area. The display area of the three elements 80, 82, 83 extends along line 68. The position of elements 80, 82, 83 on line 68 depends on the position of the first object, for example another vehicle in the environment of the display device 22 which is represented or will be represented by the elements 80, 82, 83 on the display device 22.

FIG. 16 represents a first element 80, a second element 82, a third element 83 on two display devices 22, 124. The dotted line 68 coming from the origin 97 according to FIG. 15 is represented on the device display 22; the origin 97 is a fixed point of the display device 22. The difference in FIG. 16 compared to FIG. 15 is that the third element 83 is represented on another second display device 124. For this, the line 68 also extends over the other second display device 124. This second display device 124 is preferably located above the first display device 22. In addition, this second display device 124 can have one or two sides wider than the display device 22. The display area of the three elements 80, 82, 83 extends along the line 68. The position of the elements 80, 82, 83 on the line 68 further depends on the position of the first object which is for example another vehicle, in the environment of the display device 22 and which is represented by the elements 80, 82, 83 on the display device 22.

Figure 17 shows the display surface 35 of a head-up display. The display surface 35 presents information of the speed 38 of the vehicle 20 as well as information concerning the maximum authorized speed 40. There is also information relating to the security system 42. This is, for example, here a cruise control and navigation instructions information 44. This information keeps the driver informed of the vehicle's condition. This information is presented in the separate lower area of the display. In particular, the navigation information 44 is presented, for example, in the form of arrows which may also appear in the upper area of the display device.

FIG. 17 also shows a first object 70 recognized in the environment of the vehicle 20; the first object 70 recognized in this embodiment, represents a vehicle traveling upstream and that the driver can see through the windshield of the vehicle 20 and / or at least one passenger can see. According to the method of FIG. 3, a virtual line is drawn between the first recognized object 70 and the second object 72 serving as a reference, that is to say, for example the observer or the driver; the assembly is transposed by calculation in the plane of the display device 22 and / or of the display surface 35. This line is not shown in FIG. 17. Using the virtual line, a display area on the display device 22; this display area extends along this line.

At least one element is shown in display area 36. In this advantageous embodiment, two elements 80, 82 are shown on the display device 22 in the display area along the line 68. A first element 80 is shown closer to the origin of the line unlike the second element 82. The origin represents the second object 72 serving as a reference. This is, for example, the observer or the driver, with the display device 22.

The first recognized object 70 is in the direction of circulation to the right of the vehicle 20 relative to the latter. Thus, the calculated virtual line makes an angle which depends on the recognized position of the first object 70 relative to the origin, to the right and the top of the display device 22 in the direction of the first object 70 in the environment of the display device 22.

Preferably, using the first element 80 represents the recognized type of the first object 70 and using the second element 82 represents the direction towards the first recognized object 70. The driver of the vehicle 20 is thus permanently informed object 70 or the type of object which is upstream of the vehicle 20 in the direction of traffic; this is a vehicle 70 above; it is also informed moreover of the direction in which the first recognized object 70 is in relation to the position of the conductor 72 or of the display device 22. In this embodiment, the first element 80 is represented as the symbol of a vehicle; the second element 82 is a line or a direction indicator which represents the direction towards the first recognized object 70. According to a development, the second element 82 can be located for the observer at the high edge of the display device 22 or of the display surface 35. In addition, using a small arrow on the first element 80 represents the direction in which the first recognized object 70 moves relative to the vehicle 20. In other words, at l Using the small arrow on the first element 80, the direction of circulation of the first recognized object 70 is represented.

FIG. 18 shows a display surface 35 of a head-up display according to FIG. 17. Unlike in FIG. 17, the first recognized object circulates relative to the vehicle, in the direction of circulation upstream of the vehicle 20. The line calculated virtual is located on a horizontal line in the middle of the display device 22. The first element 80 and the second element 82 are represented in the display area of the display device 22; the display area extends along the virtual line.

FIG. 19 shows a display surface 35 of a head-up display according to FIG. 17. Unlike in FIG. 17, in FIG. 19 the calculated virtual line extends between the first recognized object 70 and the second object 72 serving reference. The second object is, for example, an observer or the driver. This line is dotted between the first recognized object 70 and the first element 80.

NOMENCLATURE OF MAIN ELEMENTS

20 Vehicle 22 Display device 24 Observer / Driver 26 Screen 28 Ray of light 30 Image generator unit 32 Optical installation 34 Windshield 35 Display area 36 Display area 38 Speed 42 Driving safety system 44 Navigation indication 46 Process 48 First stage 50 Object entry unit 52 Second step 54 Fourth step 55 Step five 56 Sixth step 57 Seventh step 58 Eighth step 59 Ninth stage 61 Tenth step 60 Object display unit 64, 66 Lines 68 Dotted line 70 First object 72 Second object / observer 80 First element 82 Second element 84 Third element 85 First arrow

86 Seventh arrow 87 Fourth arrow 89 Second arrow 91 Fifth arrow 5 92 Eleventh arrow 93 Third arrow 95 Sixth arrow 96 Twelfth arrow 97 Point of origin 10 98 Horizontal auxiliary line 99 Vertical auxiliary line 100 Arrow 102 Arrow 104, 106 Corridor limits 15 110 Third element 112 Fourth element 114 Limited area / limited area 115 Limited area 118 Limited area 20 120 Limited area 124 Second display device

Claims (14)

1 °) Method for determining a display area (36) of at least one element (80, 82) on a display device (22), method characterized in that it comprises the following steps consisting in: recognizing a first object (70) in the environment of the display device (22), determining a display area for at least one element (80, 82), * the display area for representing at least one element (80 , 82) on the display device (22) extends along a line (68) between a first recognized object (70) and a second object (72) serving as a reference in the plane of the display device. display (22), and represent at least one element (80, 82) in the display area of the display device (22). 2 °) Method according to claim 1, characterized in that in the recognition step, the type of the first object (70) is recognized. 3 °) Method according to claim 2, characterized in that at least one element (80, 82) is represented in the representation step as a function of the recognized type of the first object (70). 4 °) Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the display area of an element (80, 82) depends on at least one item of information. 5 °) Method according to claim 4, characterized in that the display device (22) equips a vehicle (20), and the information is information relating to the state of the vehicle (20) and / or information a vehicle traffic safety system (20). 6 °) Method according to one of claims 4 to 5, characterized in that the information is information from the vehicle security system (20) concerning the limitation of the traffic lane by a limit to the right and a limit to the left of the corridor and in that at least one element (80, 82) is represented between and / or on the limits of the corridor. 7 °) Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that in the step of determining (80, 82) the display area, the display area is determined on a surface limited in the plane of the device d 'display (22). 8 °) Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that in the determining step, the position of at least one element (80, 82) on the display device (22) is calculated as a function of the position of the first recognized object (70) and / or as a function of the distance between the first recognized object (70) and the second object (72) serving as a reference. 9 °) Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that in the determining step, the size of at least one element (80, 82) on the display device (22) is calculated as a function of the position of the first recognized object (70) and as a function of the distance between the first recognized object (70) and the second object (72) serving as a reference and / or as a function of the size of the first recognized object (70). 10 °) Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that there is shown a first element (80) on the display device (22) and a second element (82) on the display device ( 22), and the first element (80) is represented unlike the second element (82), closer to the origin (97) of the line (68) of the display device (22). 5 11 °) Method according to claim 9, characterized in that using the first element (80), we represent the type of the first object (70) and using the second element (82), we represent the direction to the first object (70) and / or a warning symbol. 12 °) Display device (22), characterized in that it includes a display unit to represent at least one element (80, 82), 15 - this element (80, 82) is represented as a function of a first recognized object (70) in the environment of the display device (22), this element (80, 82) is represented on the display device (22) in a display area, and in the display area to represent the element (80, 82) on the 20 display device (22) is shown along a line (68) between the first recognized object (70) and a second object (72) serving as a reference in the plane of the display device (22). 1/14