electric vehicles

Abstract

The electric vehicle (10) is driven by a rotating motor (18). The electric vehicle (10) includes: a rotating motor (18); a drive prohibition processing unit (88b) that switches to a suppression state that prohibits driving of the electric vehicle (10) during driving of the electric vehicle (10); and a drive resumption processing unit (88c) that resumes driving of the electric vehicle (10) when the suppression state is released during driving of the electric vehicle (10).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an electric vehicle driven by a rotating electric machine. Background Art

[0002] For example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2010-120597 discloses a technique for stopping all controls in a vehicle when a stop switch is pressed. Summary of the Invention

[0003] However, in an electric vehicle driven by a rotating electric motor, if the stop switch is pressed while the electric vehicle is running, the vehicle switches to a drive-disabled state (hereinafter also referred to as a "restricted state"), in which the electric vehicle is prohibited from driving. This stops the electric vehicle. Thereafter, if the start switch is pressed, the output of the rotating electric motor is transmitted to the drive wheels, enabling the electric vehicle to be driven. Therefore, in order to resume driving the electric vehicle from the "restricted state," the electric vehicle must be temporarily stopped. As a result, even if the "restricted state" is released while the electric vehicle is running, it is impossible to quickly resume driving the electric vehicle.

[0004] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide an electric vehicle that can quickly return from a restrained state to a driven state during travel of the electric vehicle.

[0005] The technical solution of the present invention is: an electric vehicle, which is driven by a rotating motor, and is characterized in that it has: a drive prohibition processing unit, which transfers the electric vehicle to a suppression state prohibiting the driving of the electric vehicle after the electric vehicle starts to travel and during the travel of the electric vehicle; and a drive recovery processing unit, when the suppression state has been released during the travel of the electric vehicle, the drive recovery processing unit resumes the driving of the electric vehicle without passing through a stop state, and also has a stop switch, which is used to stop the rotation of the rotating motor. When the stop switch is pressed during the travel of the electric vehicle, the drive prohibition processing unit transfers the electric vehicle to the suppression state.

[0006] According to the present invention, when the restraint state is released while the electric vehicle is traveling, the electric vehicle can be quickly resumed from driving without stopping the electric vehicle.

[0007] The above-mentioned objects, features and advantages will be easily understood through the following description of the embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] Figure 1 It is a left side view of the electric vehicle according to this embodiment.

[0009] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A rear view of the front portion of an electric vehicle.

[0010] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 Block diagram of an electric vehicle.

[0011] Figure 4 Yes Figures 1 to 3 State transition diagram of the actions of the electric vehicle. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0012] Next, refer to the attached Figure 1 Preferred embodiments of the electric vehicle according to the present invention will be described.

[0013] [1. Schematic Structure of Electric Vehicle 10 According to This Embodiment]

[0014] Figure 1 This is a left side view of the electric vehicle 10 according to this embodiment. In the following description, the front-back, left-right, and up-down directions are described as viewed from a driver seated on the seat 12 of the electric vehicle 10. In the electric vehicle 10, components arranged as a pair of left and right components are sometimes labeled with the letter "L" for the left component and the letter "R" for the right component.

[0015] The electric vehicle 10 is a straddle-type electric two-wheeled vehicle that travels by rotating the rear wheel 14 using the driving force of a rotary motor 18 built into a swing arm 16 that axially supports the rear wheel 14. Figure 1 The electric two-wheeled vehicle can also be applied to various electric vehicles driven by the rotating motor 18.

[0016] The electric vehicle 10 includes a synthetic resin body cover 20 covering a body frame (not shown). A handlebar 22 is provided at the front of the electric vehicle 10. The driver operates the handlebar 22 to steer a front wheel 26 supported by a pair of left and right front forks 24L and 24R.

[0017] The seat 12 also functions as a lid for a storage box (not shown). By rotating the seat 12 about an axis (not shown), the top of the storage box can be opened. Furthermore, the battery 28 of the electric vehicle 10 is supported by the vehicle body frame inside the vehicle body cover 20 and directly below the seat 12. A lid 30 is provided on the portion of the vehicle body cover 20 that is straddled by the feet of a driver seated on the seat 12. By opening the lid 30 and inserting a charging plug into the charging port 32, the battery 28 can be charged from an external power source via the charging plug and the charging port 32.

[0018] Inside the vehicle body cover 20 and behind the battery 28, a PCU (Power Control Unit) 34, a power supply control unit, is supported on the vehicle body frame. The PCU 34 converts the DC power from the battery 28 into AC power and supplies it to the rotary electric machine 18. The PCU 34 will be described in detail later.

[0019] Below the battery 28 and PCU 34, the front end of the swing arm 16 is pivotally supported on a pivot shaft 36 mounted on the vehicle body frame. The swing arm 16 is a cantilever-type swing arm extending from the front end to the left of the rear wheel 14. The rear end of the swing arm 16 pivotally supports the rear wheel 14. A three-phase AC motor, or rotary electric machine 18, is housed on the rear end of the swing arm 16, to the left of the rear wheel 14. Furthermore, the rear end of the swing arm 16 is supported on the vehicle body frame via a rear shock absorber 38.

[0020] During power operation, the rotating electric machine 18 is driven (rotated) by the AC power supplied from the PCU 34. The driving force (output) of the rotating electric machine 18 is transmitted to the rear wheels 14, rotating the rear wheels 14 and enabling the electric vehicle 10 to travel (drive). Meanwhile, during regeneration, the rotating electric machine 18 functions as a generator, supplying the generated AC power to the PCU 34. The PCU 34 converts the AC power into DC power to charge the battery 28.

[0021] In the electric vehicle 10, a side support 40 is provided at the lower left portion of the battery 28. The side support 40 rotates about an axis 42 to change between a non-stowed state supporting the electric vehicle 10 when it is parked and a stowed state in which the electric vehicle 10 can travel. Figure 1 In the figure, the non-stored state is shown by a solid line, and the stored state is shown by a two-dot chain line.

[0022] In the electric vehicle 10, a main support 44 is provided below the PCU 34. The main support 44 rotates about a shaft 46 to change between a non-stowed state supporting the electric vehicle 10 when it is parked and a stowed state in which the electric vehicle 10 can travel. Figure 1 In the figure, the non-stored state is shown by a solid line, and the stored state is shown by a two-dot chain line.

[0023] [2. Structure around the handlebar 22]

[0024] Figure 2 This is a rear view of the front portion (around the handlebars 22) of the electric vehicle 10. A main switch 50 is provided on the right side of the front portion of the vehicle body cover 20, below the handlebars 22. A meter 52 is also provided in the vehicle body cover 20, in front of the handlebars 22.

[0025] The handlebar 22 includes a handlebar stem 54 extending in the left-right direction, a right grip portion 56R (hereinafter also referred to as a throttle grip 56R) provided at the right end portion of the handlebar stem 54 , and a left grip portion 56L provided at the left end portion of the handlebar stem 54 .

[0026] The right grip portion (throttle) 56R is a grip that the rider holds with his right hand and is a throttle grip for instructing the rotary motor 18 to adjust the output. Figure 1 When the throttle grip 56R is rotated clockwise (passenger side) when viewed from the left side of the vehicle, the throttle valve is opened, thereby increasing the output of the rotary motor 18. On the other hand, when the throttle grip 56R returns to the initial position, the throttle valve is closed, and the output (rotation) of the rotary motor 18 can be stopped.

[0027] A right switch box 58R is provided at the base end of the throttle grip 56R of the handlebar 54. A seesaw switch 60 is located behind (on the passenger side of) the right switch box 58R. One side (the lower side) of the seesaw switch 60 functions as a start switch 60a. The other side (the upper side) of the seesaw switch 60 functions as a stop switch 60b. Specifically, when the seesaw switch 60 is tilted downward, the start switch 60a can be pressed (turned on). When the seesaw switch 60 is tilted upward, the stop switch 60b can be pressed (turned on).

[0028] The left grip portion 56L is a grip that the passenger holds with his left hand. A left switch box 58L is provided at the base end of the left grip portion 56L of the handlebar 54. Various switches 62 related to the travel of the electric vehicle 10 are also provided behind the left switch box 58L.

[0029] exist Figure 2 In the example shown, a portion of the seesaw switch 60 is used as the start switch 60a and the stop switch 60b. However, in this embodiment, the start switch 60a and the stop switch 60b may be provided as separate switches. In this embodiment, the seesaw switch 60 or the separate start switch 60a and stop switch 60b may be provided on the left switch box 58L.

[0030] In addition, if Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, rearview mirrors 64L and 64R are provided at a portion of the handlebar 54 near the left switch box 58L and a portion near the right switch box 58R, respectively.

[0031] [3. Configuration Related to Electrical Control of Electric Vehicle 10]

[0032] Figure 3This is a block diagram of an electric vehicle 10 according to this embodiment. Electric vehicle 10 further includes a side support switch 70, a throttle position sensor 72, a seat switch 74, a lid switch 76, a plug switch 78, a rotation angle sensor 80, and a tilt sensor 82. The side support switch 70, the seat switch 74, the lid switch 76, and the plug switch 78 are all detection switches.

[0033] The main switch 50 is used to activate the system of the electric vehicle 10. When the driver turns (turns on) the knob, the main switch 50 outputs a start-instruction signal to the PCU 34. The start switch 60a is used to instruct the rotating electric machine 18 to start driving. When the driver turns the seesaw switch 60 downward to turn on the start switch 60a, the start switch 60a outputs a drive-instruction signal to the PCU 34. The stop switch 60b is a disconnect switch used to instruct the rotating electric machine 18 to stop driving. When the driver turns the seesaw switch 60 upward to turn on the stop switch 60b, the stop switch 60b outputs a stop-instruction signal to the PCU 34.

[0034] When the side supports 40 are in the stowed state, the side support switch 70 outputs an on signal indicating the stowed state to the PCU 34. When the side supports 40 are in the non-stowed state, the side support switch 70 outputs an off signal indicating the non-stowed state to the PCU 34. In the following description, for convenience, the state in which the output of the on signal is stopped is also described as the state in which the off signal is output.

[0035] The throttle opening sensor 72 detects the rotation amount of the throttle grip 56R (the opening of the throttle valve) and outputs the detection result to the PCU 34 .

[0036] When the seat 12 covers the storage box from above and the occupant can sit, the seat switch 74 outputs an on signal indicating this to the PCU 34. Furthermore, when the seat 12 rotates to open the top of the storage box, the seat switch 74 outputs an off signal indicating this to the PCU 34.

[0037] When lid 30 is open, lid switch 76 outputs an OFF signal indicating this to PCU 34 . When lid 30 is closed, lid switch 76 outputs an ON signal indicating this to PCU 34 .

[0038] When the charging plug is inserted into charging port 32 , plug switch 78 outputs an on signal indicating the insertion to PCU 34 . When the charging plug is not inserted into charging port 32 , plug switch 78 outputs an off signal indicating the insertion to PCU 34 .

[0039] Rotation angle sensor 80 is, for example, a resolver, and sequentially detects the rotation angle of the rotor constituting rotary electric machine 18 and outputs the detection result to PCU 34. Rollover sensor 82 sequentially detects the bank angle of electric vehicle 10 and outputs the detection result to PCU 34.

[0040] PCU 34 includes a DC / DC converter 84, an inverter 86, and a control unit 88. DC / DC converter 84 converts the DC voltage of battery 28 into a DC voltage of a desired voltage value and outputs the converted voltage to inverter 86, thereby supplying DC power to inverter 86. Inverter 86 converts the DC power supplied from DC / DC converter 84 into three-phase AC power and supplies the converted voltage to rotating electric machine 18.

[0041] The control unit 88 executes a program stored in a memory (not shown) to implement the functions of a rotating electric machine control unit 88a, a drive prohibition processing unit 88b, a recovery drive processing unit 88c, a running state determination unit 88d, and a tilting state determination unit 88e. Furthermore, the control unit 88 controls the DC / DC converter 84 and the inverter 86 based on information or signals from the aforementioned sensors 72, 80, 82 and the switches 50, 60a, 60b, 70, 74, 76, and 78, thereby rotating or stopping the rotating electric machine 18.

[0042] Specifically, the running state determination unit 88d determines the running state of the electric vehicle 10 based on the signals output from the switches 50, 60a, 60b, 70, 74, 76, and 78 and the detection result of the rotation angle sensor 80. The tipping state determination unit 88e determines whether the electric vehicle 10 has tipped based on the tilt angle detected by the tipping sensor 82.

[0043] The drive inhibition processing unit 88b determines a transition to a restrained state that inhibits driving of the electric vehicle 10 based on information or signals from the sensors 72, 80, 82 and the switches 50, 60a, 60b, 70, 74, 76, and 78, and the determination results of the running state determination unit 88d and the tilting state determination unit 88e, and notifies the rotary electric machine control unit 88a of the determination result. The drive resumption processing unit 88c determines whether the restrained state of the electric vehicle 10 has been released based on information or signals from the sensors 72, 80, 82 and the switches 50, 60a, 60b, 70, 74, 76, and 78, and the determination results of the running state determination unit 88d and the tilting state determination unit 88e. If the resumption drive processing unit 88c determines that the restrained state has been released, it determines to resume driving of the electric vehicle 10 and notifies the rotary electric machine control unit 88a of the determination result.

[0044] The rotary electric machine control unit 88 a controls the DC / DC converter 84 and the inverter 86 according to the rotation amount of the throttle grip 56R and the rotation angle of the rotor of the rotary electric machine 18 .

[0045] Furthermore, upon receiving a notification from the drive prohibition processing unit 88b indicating a transition to the suppression state, the rotating electric machine control unit 88a controls the DC / DC converter 84 and the inverter 86 to stop the rotation of the rotating electric machine 18 and thereby stop driving the rear wheels 14. In the following description, "prohibiting driving of the electric vehicle 10" means prohibiting the transmission of driving force from the rotating electric machine 18 to the rear wheels 14 by stopping the rotation of the rotating electric machine 18, thereby prohibiting driving of the rear wheels 14.

[0046] Furthermore, upon receiving a notification from the resumption drive processing unit 88c that the electric vehicle 10 has resumed driving, the rotating electric machine control unit 88a controls the DC / DC converter 84 and the inverter 86 to resume rotation of the rotating electric machine 18, thereby resuming driving of the rear wheels 14. In the following description, "resuming driving of the electric vehicle 10" means enabling the rotating electric machine 18 to rotate so that driving force can be transmitted from the rotating electric machine 18 to the rear wheels 14, thereby resuming driving of the rear wheels 14.

[0047] Thus, unless the rotating electrical machine control unit 88a receives a notification from the drive prohibition processing unit 88b, it performs normal control on the DC / DC converter 84 and the inverter 86 to rotate the rotating electrical machine 18. Furthermore, the rotating electrical machine control unit 88a stops the rotation of the rotating electrical machine 18 during the period from when it receives the notification until it receives a notification from the drive resumption processing unit 88c, thereby prohibiting the driving of the electric vehicle 10.

[0048] Here, the inhibited state of the electric vehicle 10 before traveling refers to a state in which the electric vehicle 10 is prohibited from starting to travel (starting to drive) even if the driver instructs the electric vehicle 10 to start traveling by rotating the throttle grip 56R, for example. Furthermore, the inhibited state during traveling refers to a state in which the electric vehicle 10 is prohibited from driving even if the driver instructs the electric vehicle 10 to drive by rotating the throttle grip 56R, for example. Therefore, in the inhibited state during traveling, driving force is not transmitted from the rotating electric machine 18 to the rear wheels 14, causing the electric vehicle 10 to coast.

[0049] In addition, in the following description, "while the electric vehicle 10 is traveling" is a concept that includes not only the state in which the electric vehicle 10 is traveling by the rotation of the rotating motor 18, but also the state in which the electric vehicle 10 is coasting by the rotation of the rotating motor 18, and the state in which the electric vehicle 10 is temporarily stopped at an intersection, etc.

[0050] In addition, the control unit 88 causes the instrument 52 to display information or signals (for example, vehicle speed corresponding to the rotation angle) from each sensor 72 , 80 , 82 and each switch 50 , 60 a , 60 b , 70 , 74 , 76 , 78 , and processing results of each part within the control unit 88 .

[0051] [4. Operation of Electric Vehicle 10]

[0052] Edge Reference Figure 4 , the operation of the electric vehicle 10 according to the present embodiment constructed as described above will be described. Figure 2 and Figure 3 ) After the electric vehicle 10 is driven, the transition to the suppression state and the recovery of the electric vehicle 10 from the suppression state will be described. Figure 4 In the description, if necessary, also refer to Figures 1 to 3 While explaining.

[0053] <4.1 Operations in Steps S1 and S2>

[0054] First, in step S1, when the driver, seated in vehicle seat 12, turns on main switch 50, a startup instruction signal is output from main switch 50 to PCU 34. In response to the startup instruction signal, PCU 34 receives DC power from battery 28 and starts up. Furthermore, PCU 34 supplies DC power from battery 28 to various electrical components within electric vehicle 10, such as meter 52. As a result, PCU 34 transitions to step S2, where it awaits the output of a drive instruction signal from starter switch 60a. Specifically, when main switch 50 is turned on in step S1, it is determined that system startup condition T1 has been met, and PCU 34 transitions to step S2, where it awaits the output of a drive instruction signal.

[0055] <4.2 Operations in Steps S3 to S8>

[0056] As described above, the start switch 60a outputs a drive instruction signal to the PCU 34 instructing the rotating motor 18 to start rotating due to the driver's operation. Therefore, step S2 is the state before the electric vehicle 10 travels. Therefore, in step S2, when the start switch 60a is not turned on, if the driver performs certain operations to instruct the electric vehicle 10 to travel, the drive prohibition processing unit 88b causes the electric vehicle 10 to transfer to the suppressed state. In addition, in step S2, when the electric vehicle 10 is in a state where it cannot travel, the drive prohibition processing unit 88b causes the electric vehicle 10 to transfer to the suppressed state. In this case, the travel state determination unit 88d can determine that the electric vehicle 10 is in a stopped state (state before travel) based on the rotation angle detected by the rotation angle sensor 80, etc., and notify the drive prohibition processing unit 88b of the determination result.

[0057] Specifically, when the side support switch 70 outputs an OFF signal to the PCU 34 (condition T2), the drive prohibition processing unit 88b determines that the electric vehicle 10 cannot travel because the side support 40 is in the non-stowed state. Based on this determination (condition T2 being satisfied), the drive prohibition processing unit 88b then determines to transition the electric vehicle 10 to the inhibited state and notifies the rotary electric machine control unit 88a of this determination. Consequently, the process shifts from step S2 to the inhibited state in step S3.

[0058] On the other hand, in step S3, if the side support switch 70 outputs an on signal to the PCU 34 and the start switch 60a does not output a drive instruction signal to the PCU 34 (condition T3), the side support 40 is in the stowed state. Therefore, if the start switch 60a is turned on, the resumption drive processing unit 88c determines that the electric vehicle 10 can be driven. In other words, the resumption drive processing unit 88c determines that the restraint state caused by the non-stowed state of the side support 40 has been released. Based on this determination result (condition T3 is met), the resumption drive processing unit 88c determines that the electric vehicle 10 should resume driving from the restraint state and notifies the rotary electric machine control unit 88a of this determination result. Accordingly, the process moves from step S3 to step S2.

[0059] Furthermore, when the lid switch 76 outputs an OFF signal to the PCU 34 (condition T4), the drive prohibition processing unit 88b determines that the electric vehicle 10 cannot travel because there is a possibility that charging of the battery 28 will begin with the lid 30 open. Based on this determination (condition T4 being satisfied), the drive prohibition processing unit 88b determines that the electric vehicle 10 should be shifted to the inhibited state and notifies the rotary electric machine control unit 88a of this determination. Consequently, the process shifts from step S2 to the inhibited state in step S4.

[0060] On the other hand, in step S4, when the lid switch 76 outputs an on signal to the PCU 34 (condition T5), since the lid 30 blocks the charging port 32, if the start switch 60a is turned on, the recovery drive processing unit 88c determines that the electric vehicle 10 is ready for travel. In other words, the recovery drive processing unit 88c determines that the inhibition state caused by the opening of the lid 30 has been lifted. Based on this determination (condition T5 being met), the recovery drive processing unit 88c determines that the electric vehicle 10 should resume driving from the inhibition state and notifies the rotating electrical machine control unit 88a of this determination. Accordingly, the process moves from step S4 to step S2.

[0061] Furthermore, when the throttle position sensor 72 outputs a detection result indicating that the throttle grip 56R is rotating (the throttle is open) to the PCU 34 (condition T6), the drive prohibition processing unit 88b determines that the electric vehicle 10 cannot travel because the instruction to adjust the output of the rotary electric machine 18 is present, even though the start switch 60a is not on. Based on this determination result (condition T6 being satisfied), the drive prohibition processing unit 88b determines that the electric vehicle 10 should be shifted to the inhibited state and notifies the rotary electric machine control unit 88a of this determination. Consequently, the process shifts from step S2 to the inhibited state in step S5.

[0062] On the other hand, in step S5, if the throttle position sensor 72 outputs a detection result indicating that the throttle grip 56R has returned to its initial position (throttle closed) to the PCU 34 (condition T7), and if the start switch 60a is turned on, the recovery drive processing unit 88c determines that the electric vehicle 10 is ready for travel. In other words, the recovery drive processing unit 88c determines that the restraint state caused by the rotation of the throttle grip 56R has been released. Based on this determination result (condition T7 being met), the recovery drive processing unit 88c determines that the electric vehicle 10 should resume driving from the restraint state and notifies the rotary electric machine control unit 88a of this determination. Accordingly, the process moves from step S5 to step S2.

[0063] Furthermore, when the seat switch 74 outputs an OFF signal to the PCU 34 (condition T8), the drive prohibition processing unit 88b determines that the electric vehicle 10 cannot travel because the seat 12 is open. Based on this determination (condition T8 being satisfied), the drive prohibition processing unit 88b determines that the electric vehicle 10 should be shifted to the inhibited state and notifies the rotary electric machine control unit 88a of this determination. Consequently, the process shifts from step S2 to the inhibited state in step S6.

[0064] On the other hand, in step S6, when the seat switch 74 outputs an on signal to the PCU 34 (condition T9), since the seat 12 blocks the storage box, if the start switch 60a is turned on, the resumption drive processing unit 88c determines that the electric vehicle 10 is ready for travel. In other words, the resumption drive processing unit 88c determines that the restraint state caused by the opening of the seat 12 has been released. Based on this determination (condition T9 being met), the resumption drive processing unit 88c determines that the electric vehicle 10 should resume driving from the restraint state and notifies the rotary electric machine control unit 88a of this determination. Accordingly, the process moves from step S6 to step S2.

[0065] Furthermore, when the stop switch 60b outputs a stop instruction signal to the PCU 34 (condition T10), even though the start switch 60a is not on, the drive prohibition processing unit 88b determines that the electric vehicle 10 cannot travel because the instruction to stop the output of the rotating electrical machine 18 is issued. Based on this determination (condition T10 being satisfied), the drive prohibition processing unit 88b then determines to shift the electric vehicle 10 to the inhibited state and notifies the rotating electrical machine control unit 88a of this determination. Consequently, the process shifts from step S2 to the inhibited state in step S7.

[0066] On the other hand, in step S7, if the stop instruction signal and the drive instruction signal are not output from the stop switch 60b and the start switch 60a to the PCU 34, respectively (condition T11), since there is no instruction to stop the output of the rotating electric machine 18, if the start switch 60a is turned on, the resumption drive processing unit 88c determines that the electric vehicle 10 is ready to travel. In other words, the resumption drive processing unit 88c determines that the suppression state caused by the stop switch 60b has been lifted. Based on this determination result (condition T11 being met), the resumption drive processing unit 88c determines that the electric vehicle 10 should resume driving from the suppression state and notifies the rotating electric machine control unit 88a of this determination result. Accordingly, the process moves from step S7 to step S2.

[0067] Furthermore, when the plug switch 78 outputs an on signal to the PCU 34 (condition T12), the charge plug is inserted into the charge port 32, charging the battery 28. Therefore, the drive prohibition processing unit 88b determines that the electric vehicle 10 cannot travel. Based on this determination (condition T12 being satisfied), the drive prohibition processing unit 88b determines that the electric vehicle 10 should transition to the inhibited state and notifies the rotating electrical machine control unit 88a of this determination. Consequently, the process shifts from step S2 to the inhibited state in step S8.

[0068] On the other hand, in step S8, if the plug switch 78 outputs a disconnect signal to the PCU 34 (condition T13), the charging plug is disconnected from the charging port 32. Therefore, if the start switch 60a is turned on, the resumption drive processing unit 88c determines that the electric vehicle 10 is ready for travel. In other words, the resumption drive processing unit 88c determines that the restraint state caused by the charging plug has been lifted. Based on this determination (condition T13 being met), the resumption drive processing unit 88c determines that the electric vehicle 10 should resume driving from the restraint state and notifies the rotating electrical machine control unit 88a of this determination. Accordingly, the process moves from step S8 to step S2.

[0069] In addition, in each suppression state of steps S3 to S8, the rotating electric machine control unit 88a controls the DC / DC converter 84 and the inverter 86 in accordance with the notification from the drive prohibition processing unit 88b so that the rotating electric machine 18 does not rotate, that is, the transmission of driving force from the rotating electric machine 18 to the rear wheel 14 is prevented.

[0070] <4.3 Operations in Steps S9 and S10>

[0071] In step S2, when the driver presses the start switch 60a, a drive instruction signal is output from the start switch 60a to the PCU 34. Furthermore, the rotation angle sensor 80 sequentially detects the rotation angle of the rotor of the rotary electric machine 18 and outputs the detection results to the PCU 34. In this case, since the electric vehicle 10 is in the pre-travel state, the rotary electric machine 18 is stopped. Therefore, the travel state determination unit 88d determines, based on the drive instruction signal and the rotation angle, that the electric vehicle 10 has been instructed to start traveling (condition T14). The travel state determination unit 88d then notifies the rotary electric machine control unit 88a of this determination result.

[0072] Based on the notification from the driving state determination unit 88d, the rotating electric machine control unit 88a recognizes that the DC / DC converter 84 and inverter 86 have been controlled to rotate the rotating electric machine 18. Thus, the electric vehicle 10 accepts the satisfaction of condition T14 and transitions from step S2 to step S9. Step S9 refers to a state in which the rotating electric machine 18 has stopped rotating while the electric vehicle 10 is driving.

[0073] In step S9, when the driver rotates the throttle grip 56R, the throttle opening sensor 72 detects the rotation amount of the throttle grip 56R and outputs its detection result to the PCU 34. The rotating motor control unit 88a controls the DC / DC converter 84 and the inverter 86 based on the detection results of the throttle opening sensor 72 and the rotation angle sensor 80, thereby rotating the rotating motor 18 (condition T15). When condition T15 is met, the rotating motor 18 starts to rotate and transmits the driving force to the rear wheel 14. Accordingly, the rear wheel 14 is driven to cause the electric vehicle 10 to start traveling (driving), and the electric vehicle 10 transfers from step S9 to the state of step S10. In addition, step S10 refers to the state in which the rotating motor 18 is rotating in the state of the electric vehicle 10 during driving.

[0074] In step S10, when the driver returns the throttle grip 56R to its initial position, the rotating electric machine control unit 88a controls the DC / DC converter 84 and the inverter 86 to stop the rotation of the rotating electric machine 18 (condition T16). When condition T16 is met, the rotating electric machine 18 stops rotating, and transmission of driving force to the rear wheels 14 stops. Consequently, driving of the rear wheels 14 stops, and the electric vehicle 10 transitions from step S10 to step S9.

[0075] Therefore, after the driver operates the start switch 60a, the electric vehicle 10 switches between step S9 and step S10. In addition, in this embodiment, if the driver operates the start switch 60a in step S2 and the rotating electric machine 18 starts rotating (condition T17), the process can also be directly transferred from step S2 to step S10.

[0076] <4.4 Operations in Steps S11 and S12>

[0077] In steps S9 and S10, when the side support switch 70 outputs an OFF signal to the PCU 34 (conditions T18 and T19), the side support 40 is in the non-stowed state, and therefore the drive prohibition processing unit 88b determines that the electric vehicle 10 cannot travel. Based on this determination (conditions T18 and T19 being met), the drive prohibition processing unit 88b determines that the electric vehicle 10, while traveling, should transition to the inhibited state and notifies the rotary electric machine control unit 88a of this determination. Consequently, the process transitions from steps S9 and S10 to the inhibited state in step S11.

[0078] In step S11, the rotating electric machine control unit 88a controls the DC / DC converter 84 and inverter 86 in response to a notification from the drive prohibition processing unit 88b to prevent the rotating electric machine 18 from rotating. This prohibits the transmission of driving force from the rotating electric machine 18 to the rear wheels 14. Furthermore, when the process transitions from step S9 to step S11, the temporarily stopped state of the electric vehicle 10 is maintained. Furthermore, when the process transitions from step S10 to step S11, the electric vehicle 10 coasts.

[0079] In step S11, (1) an on signal is output from the side support switch 70 to the PCU 34, (2) the driving state determination unit 88d determines that the rotation of the rotary motor 18 has stopped based on the detection result of the rotation angle sensor 80, (3) a drive instruction signal is output from the start switch 60a to the PCU 34 due to the driver's operation of the start switch 60a, and (4) when the throttle is closed (the throttle grip 56R returns to the initial position) (condition T20), the recovery drive processing unit 88c determines that the inhibition state caused by the side support switch 70 has been released, and therefore the electric vehicle 10 can travel.

[0080] Next, based on this determination (condition T20 being satisfied), the resumption drive processing unit 88c determines that the electric vehicle 10 should resume driving from the suppressed state and notifies the rotating electric machine control unit 88a of this determination. Consequently, based on the notification from the resumption drive processing unit 88c, the rotating electric machine control unit 88a controls the DC / DC converter 84 and inverter 86 to return the rotating electric machine 18 to a state capable of rotation. In other words, the state of the electric vehicle 10 transitions from step S11 to step S9. Thus, when resuming driving from the suppressed state, the vehicle returns from the suppressed state of step S11 to the driving state of step S9, without proceeding to the stopped state of step S2.

[0081] On the other hand, in step S11, when (1) an on signal is output from the side support switch 70 to the PCU 34, (2) the driving state determination unit 88 d determines that the rotary motor 18 is rotating based on the detection result of the rotation angle sensor 80, (3) a drive instruction signal is output from the start switch 60 a to the PCU 34 due to the driver's operation of the start switch 60 a, and (4) the throttle valve is closed (condition T21), the recovery drive processing unit 88 c determines that the inhibition state caused by the side support switch 70 has been released and the electric vehicle 10 can travel.

[0082] Next, based on this determination (condition T21 being satisfied), the resumption drive processing unit 88c determines to resume driving the electric vehicle 10 from the suppressed state and notifies the rotating electrical machine control unit 88a of this determination. In this case, the rotating electrical machine control unit 88a also controls the DC / DC converter 84 and inverter 86 based on the notification from the resumption drive processing unit 88c, returning the rotating electrical machine 18 to a rotatable state. In this case, the electric vehicle 10 also transitions from step S11 to step S10, without proceeding to the stopped state of step S2.

[0083] Furthermore, in steps S9 and S10, when the driver operates the stop switch 60b and a stop command signal is output from the stop switch 60b to the PCU 34 (conditions T22 and T23), the operation of the stop switch 60b instructs the rotating electric machine 18 to stop rotating. Therefore, the drive prohibition processing unit 88b determines that the electric vehicle 10 cannot travel. Based on this determination (conditions T22 and T23 being met), the drive prohibition processing unit 88b determines that the electric vehicle 10, while traveling, should be shifted to the inhibited state and notifies the rotating electric machine control unit 88a of this determination. Consequently, the process shifts from steps S9 and S10 to the inhibited state in step S12.

[0084] In step S12, the rotating electric machine control unit 88a, in response to the notification from the drive prohibition processing unit 88b, controls the DC / DC converter 84 and inverter 86 to prevent the rotating electric machine 18 from rotating. In this case, since driving force is not transmitted from the rotating electric machine 18 to the rear wheels 14, the temporarily stopped state of the electric vehicle 10 is maintained when the process transitions from step S9 to step S12. Furthermore, when the process transitions from step S10 to step S12, the electric vehicle 10 coasts.

[0085] In addition, in step S12, when (1) the stop instruction signal is stopped from being output from the stop switch 60b to the PCU34, (2) the driving state determination unit 88d determines that the rotating motor 18 is rotating based on the detection result of the rotation angle sensor 80, (3) the drive instruction signal is output from the start switch 60a to the PCU34 due to the driver's operation of the start switch 60a, and (4) the throttle is closed (condition T24), the recovery drive processing unit 88c determines that the inhibition state caused by the stop switch 60b has been released and the electric vehicle 10 can travel.

[0086] Next, based on this determination (condition T24 being satisfied), the resumption drive processing unit 88c determines to resume driving the electric vehicle 10 from the suppressed state and notifies the rotating electric machine control unit 88a of this determination. Consequently, based on the notification from the resumption drive processing unit 88c, the rotating electric machine control unit 88a controls the DC / DC converter 84 and inverter 86 to return the rotating electric machine 18 to a state capable of rotation. In this case, the electric vehicle 10 transitions from step S12 to step S10, bypassing the stopped state of step S2.

[0087] Furthermore, in step S12, when (1) the stop instruction signal is stopped from being output from the stop switch 60b to the PCU 34, (2) the driving state determination unit 88d determines that the rotating motor 18 has stopped rotating based on the detection result of the rotation angle sensor 80, and (3) the throttle valve is closed (condition T25), the recovery drive processing unit 88c determines that the suppression state caused by the stop switch 60b has been released, and on the other hand, the electric vehicle 10 is in a parked state.

[0088] Next, the recovery drive processing unit 88c determines to recover the electric vehicle 10 from the restrained state based on the determination result (condition T25 is satisfied), and notifies the rotary electric machine control unit 88a of the determination result. In this case, the electric vehicle 10 proceeds from step S12 to step S2.

[0089] <4.5 Actions in Step S13>

[0090] In steps S2, S9, and S10, if the tilt angle detected by the tilt sensor 82 exceeds the threshold angle, the tilt state determination unit 88e determines that the electric vehicle 10 is in a tilted state and notifies the drive prohibition processing unit 88b of this determination. Upon receiving this determination, the drive prohibition processing unit 88b determines that the electric vehicle 10 cannot travel (conditions T26 to T28 are met) and notifies the rotary electric machine control unit 88a of this determination. Consequently, the process shifts from steps S2, S9, and S10 to the inhibited state in step S13.

[0091] [5. Effects of this embodiment]

[0092] The effects of the above-described electric vehicle 10 according to the present embodiment will be described.

[0093] The electric vehicle 10 according to this embodiment is driven by a rotating electric machine 18 and includes a drive inhibition processing unit 88b that, after the electric vehicle 10 begins driving and while the electric vehicle 10 is driving, shifts the electric vehicle 10 to a suppressed state that inhibits driving; a drive resumption processing unit 88c that, when the suppressed state is released while the electric vehicle 10 is driving, resumes driving the electric vehicle 10 without stopping; and a stop switch 60b that stops the rotation of the rotating electric machine 18. In this case, when the stop switch 60b is pressed while the electric vehicle 10 is driving, the drive inhibition processing unit 88b shifts the electric vehicle 10 to the suppressed state (steps S9, S10 → step S12). This allows the electric vehicle 10 to quickly resume driving without stopping the electric vehicle 10 when the suppressed state is released while the electric vehicle 10 is driving. Furthermore, the electric vehicle 10 can be stopped at the driver's discretion.

[0094] In addition, the electric vehicle 10 further includes a throttle grip 56R (right grip portion 56R, throttle) for adjusting the output of the rotary motor 18. In this case, when the electric vehicle 10 is shifted to the restrained state ( Figure 4 If the throttle is closed (steps S9, S10 → steps S11, S12), the resumption drive processing unit 88c determines that the suppression state has been released and resumes driving the electric vehicle 10 (steps S11, S12 → steps S9, S10). This prevents the electric vehicle 10 from accidentally jumping out and running after resuming driving.

[0095] The electric vehicle 10 also includes a start switch 60a for starting the rotating electric motor 18. In this case, if the start switch 60a is pressed after the electric vehicle 10 transitions to the inhibited state during travel (steps S9, S10 → steps S11, S12), the resumption drive processing unit 88c determines that the inhibited state has been released and resumes driving the electric vehicle 10 (steps S11, S12 → steps S9, S10). This allows the electric vehicle 10 to quickly resume driving in accordance with the driver's intention.

[0096] The electric vehicle 10 also includes a side support 40. When the side support 40 enters the non-stowed state while the electric vehicle 10 is traveling, the drive prohibition processing unit 88b shifts the electric vehicle 10 to the restrained state (steps S9 and S10 to step S11). This allows the electric vehicle 10 to be quickly stopped even if the side support 40 unexpectedly enters the non-stowed state while the electric vehicle 10 is traveling.

[0097] In this case, when the side supports 40 are in the retracted state after transitioning to the restrained state during travel of the electric vehicle 10, the resumption drive processing unit 88c determines that the restrained state has been released, thereby enabling the electric vehicle 10 to quickly resume driving (step S11 → steps S9, S10).

[0098] The present invention has been described above using preferred embodiments, but the technical scope of the present invention is not limited to the description scope of the above embodiments. It is clear to those skilled in the art that various changes or improvements can be made to the above embodiments. According to the description of the technical solution, it is known that the method in which such changes or improvements are applied can also be included in the technical scope of the present invention. In addition, the marks in brackets recorded in the technical solution are marked according to the marks in the accompanying drawings to make the present invention easy to understand, and the present invention is not to be interpreted as being limited to the elements marked with the marks.

[0099] [Explanation of Reference Numerals]

[0100] 10: Electric vehicle; 18: Rotating electric machine; 40: Side support; 56R: Throttle grip (right grip, throttle); 60a: Start switch; 60b: Stop switch; 88b: Drive prohibition processing unit; 88c: Drive resumption processing unit.

Claims

1. An electric vehicle (10) driven by a rotating electric machine (18), characterized in that have: a drive prohibition processing unit (88b) which, after the electric vehicle (10) starts traveling and during the traveling of the electric vehicle (10), shifts the electric vehicle (10) to a suppression state prohibiting the driving of the electric vehicle (10); and a recovery drive processing unit (88c) configured to, when the suppression state is released during the travel of the electric vehicle (10), cause the electric vehicle (10) to resume driving without passing through a stopped state; a stop switch (60b), the stop switch (60b) being used to stop the rotation of the rotating motor (18); and a throttle valve (56R), the throttle valve (56R) being used to adjust the output of the rotating electric machine (18), When the stop switch (60b) is pressed while the electric vehicle (10) is traveling, the drive prohibition processing unit (88b) causes the electric vehicle (10) to transition to the suppression state. When the throttle valve (56R) is closed after the electric vehicle (10) transitions to the suppression state during travel, the recovery drive processing unit (88c) determines that the suppression state has been released and resumes driving the electric vehicle (10).

2. An electric vehicle (10) driven by a rotating electric machine (18), characterized in that: have: a drive prohibition processing unit (88b) which, after the electric vehicle (10) starts traveling and during the traveling of the electric vehicle (10), shifts the electric vehicle (10) to a suppression state prohibiting the driving of the electric vehicle (10); and a recovery drive processing unit (88c) configured to, when the suppression state is released during the travel of the electric vehicle (10), cause the electric vehicle (10) to resume driving without passing through a stopped state; a stop switch (60b), the stop switch (60b) being used to stop the rotation of the rotating motor (18); and A start switch (60a) is used to start the rotation of the rotating motor (18). When the stop switch (60b) is pressed while the electric vehicle (10) is traveling, the drive prohibition processing unit (88b) causes the electric vehicle (10) to transition to the suppression state. When the start switch (60a) is pressed after the electric vehicle (10) transitions to the suppression state during travel, the recovery drive processing unit (88c) determines that the suppression state has been released and resumes driving the electric vehicle (10).

3. An electric vehicle (10) driven by a rotating electric machine (18), characterized in that have: a drive prohibition processing unit (88b) which, after the electric vehicle (10) starts traveling and during the traveling of the electric vehicle (10), shifts the electric vehicle (10) to a suppression state prohibiting the driving of the electric vehicle (10); and a recovery drive processing unit (88c) for causing the electric vehicle (10) to resume driving without passing through a stopped state when the suppression state has been released during the running of the electric vehicle (10); and Side supports (40), When the side support (40) becomes a non-retracted state during the travel of the electric vehicle (10), the drive prohibition processing unit (88b) causes the electric vehicle (10) to shift to the suppression state. When the side support (40) becomes the retracted state after transitioning to the suppressed state during the travel of the electric vehicle (10), the recovery drive processing unit (88c) determines that the suppressed state has been released and resumes driving the electric vehicle (10).

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