RE: CONTINENTAL AUTOMOTIVE GMBH 2020-11-1213 Nov 2020 07:06
According to an embodiment, the assistance device 10 can be configured such that it assists the driver in performing a reading activity if the system 1 for automated driving switches from the first operating state (autonomous operating state) to the second operating state (manual operating state). For example, the assistance device can offer to the driver (via natural voice output) to read aloud a remaining part of an e-mail, of a message, of an online article, or of an e-book chapter, etc.
The driver would then have the option to accept the offer (via voice input). By coupling a camera to connected image processing system, for instance to an in-car eye-tracking system, and to the communication devices of the driver (smartphone, tablet, etc.), the assistance device can determine a corresponding passage in a text that the driver has just read. This passage in the text can then be read aloud by voice output. By natural voice dialog, the driver has the option at any time to jump forwards and backwards in the text and to pause the voice output from the assistant.
By active assistance for a driver in concluding the interrupted non-driving activity, the defined system allows safe driving after the transfer of the driving task from autonomous to manual driving without the driver having to turn his attention away from independent driving and hence from the road environment. The defined solution increases safety during driving because the driver performs his actual activity, i.e., manual driving, and is not distracted by his initiated secondary activity. The system for automated driving with assistance for the driver in performing the non-driving activity can be used in principle in all means of transportation. These include, in addition to autonomously driving vehicles, also rail vehicles in rail transport, which can assist a train driver, for instance.