Motor module

Abstract

Motor module. A motor module includes: a motor; a drive unit; a control unit; a memory; and a communication unit. The control unit performs the following operations: receives parameter information specific to a vehicle-mounted device from a management module by the communication unit and stores the parameter information in the memory; in a case where the parameter information is stored in the memory, drives the motor by the drive unit based on an operation signal for operating the vehicle-mounted device input from the outside and the parameter information to operate the vehicle-mounted device so that the motor outputs a predetermined torque; in a case where the parameter information is not stored in the memory, drives the motor by the drive unit based on the operation signal for a certain period of time and then stops the motor to fine tune the vehicle-mounted device so that the motor outputs a maximum torque.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application is based on and claims priority to Japanese Patent Application No. 2020-154618, filed on September 15, 2020, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] One or more embodiments of the present invention relate to a motor module that operates an onboard device such as a power window mechanism mounted on a vehicle. Background Technology

[0004] To operate an onboard device installed in a vehicle such as an automobile, a motor module, as disclosed in WO-A1-2010 / 110112, is used. This motor module is integrated with a motor that serves as the power source for the onboard device, a mechanism that reduces the rotation of the motor's rotating shaft, a sensor that detects the motor's speed, a drive unit that drives the motor, and a control unit that operates the drive unit to control the motor's drive.

[0005] In addition to the above configurations, there are also motor modules integrated with a memory that stores information for operating the vehicle-mounted device, and communication units that communicate with another module or device via a network built into the vehicle, such as LAN or CAN. For example, JP-A-2015-020647 and JP-A-2006-256547 disclose vehicle-mounted device control systems that include such motor modules (slave devices) and management modules (master devices) that manage the motor modules. The management module is configured with an electronic control unit (ECU) including a control unit with a CPU, a memory, a communication unit that communicates via the vehicle's network, or other modules with other functions.

[0006] Initial setup is required for the motor module to control the operation of the on-board unit, and for the management module to control the motor module. Therefore, as described in JP-A-2015-020647, the slave device's identification information and the driver (software) for the master device to control the slave device are pre-stored in the slave device's memory. During initial setup, the slave device transmits the identification information and driver stored in its memory to the master device via the network. When the master device receives the identification information and driver from the slave device, it associates the identification information and driver and stores them in its memory. In subsequent operations, the master device transmits control commands along with the identification information to the slave device based on the conditions indicated by the driver. Upon receiving the control commands, the slave device controls the operation of main units such as motors and operates the on-board unit.

[0007] Furthermore, for example, JP-A-2006-256547 discloses a technique in which a slave device determines its identification information based on a voltage applied from another slave device or a master device connected via a network. Specifically, a resistor circuit disposed in multiple slave devices is connected in series to a wire (which is connected to a power supply unit disposed in the master device), and a voltage is applied from the power supply unit to the wire. The slave device then determines its identification information based on the voltage division value of the resistor circuit of the slave device and stores the identification information in a memory.

[0008] Furthermore, for example, WO-A1-2007 / 004617 discloses the following technology: a control unit, separate from the motor, learns information for controlling the motor's drive to enable the vehicle's power window mechanism to safely perform opening and closing operations. Specifically, based on pulse signals generated by a pulse generator according to the motor's drive state, the control unit detects the motor's drive state, such as its rotational speed, and the window glass's open / closed state, such as the window's position. When there are no foreign objects in the window, the control unit learns the pulse width of the pulse signal generated by the pulse generator based on the motor's drive state and the rate of change of the pulse width, and stores the pulse width and rate of change in memory as parameter information (threshold, etc.) for pinch determination.

[0009] On the other hand, TW-U1-M400957, JP-A-2001-003639, JP-A-2017-210798, JP-A-2002-002293, and JP-A-2008-231878 disclose the following technology: for safety and convenience, fine-tuning of the motor or power window mechanism in case of malfunction or failure. Specifically, in TW-U1-M400957, in the event of a motor-related malfunction, the window glass moves by a certain amount of displacement. According to JP-A-2001-003639, in the event of a disconnection in the window frame sensor, the closing operation of the window glass is fine-tuned. According to JP-A-2017-210798, when the rise switch is activated after the window glass is unintentionally moved by the user due to external force or the weight of the window glass, the motor operates for a period of time and then stops to immediately stop the rise of the window glass. According to Japanese JP-A-2002-002293, if the control unit is reset due to a voltage drop and learning the absolute position of the window glass becomes impossible, the motor will stop after performing a small operation in the command direction even when an automatic switch operation command is received. In JP-A-2008-231878, when the original position of the window glass is not set, the motor drive is controlled to intermittently operate the window glass according to a predetermined count value. Summary of the Invention

[0010] For the on-board unit to operate safely via the motor module, parameter information for motor control specifically for the on-board unit needs to be pre-stored in the motor module's memory. However, if this parameter information is not stored in the motor module's memory due to reasons such as a malfunction, the motor module may be unable to operate the on-board unit safely. Furthermore, in such cases, if safety is prioritized and operation of the motor or on-board unit is prohibited, user convenience would be compromised.

[0011] The purpose of one or more embodiments of the present invention is to operate the vehicle-mounted device safely and to ensure convenience even in emergency situations such as malfunctions.

[0012] According to one aspect of the present invention, a motor module is provided, comprising: a motor, which is a power source for an on-board device mounted on a vehicle; a drive unit, which drives the motor; a control unit, which operates the drive unit and controls the drive of the motor to operate the on-board device; a memory, which stores information for the control unit to operate the on-board device; and a communication unit, which communicates via a network built into the vehicle. The control unit performs "parameter learning processing," which receives, via the communication unit, parameter information for motor control specific to the on-board device for operating the on-board device from a management module that manages the motor module, and stores the parameter information in the memory. Additionally, the control unit performs "normal processing," which, when the parameter information is stored in the memory, drives the motor by the drive unit to operate the on-board device based on externally input operating signals and parameter information for operating the on-board device, causing the motor to output a predetermined torque. Furthermore, the control unit performs "fine-tuning processing," which, when the parameter information is not stored in the memory, drives the motor by the drive unit for a certain period of time based on externally input operating signals and then stops the motor, allowing the on-board device to be fine-tuned so that the motor outputs maximum torque.

[0013] Using the above configuration, through parameter learning processing, the motor module receives parameter information for motor control of the vehicle-mounted device from the management module via the network and stores this parameter information in its memory. Then, with the parameter information stored in the motor module's memory, the motor module performs normal processing based on the externally input operation signals and parameter information, and drives the motor to operate the vehicle-mounted device, causing the motor to output a predetermined torque. Therefore, during normal operation when the motor module has (stored) parameter information, the motor module can safely and reliably operate the vehicle-mounted device according to the operation signals.

[0014] In the event that the motor module's memory does not store parameter information due to reasons such as malfunction, the motor module performs fine-tuning based on externally input operation signals and drives the motor for a certain period of time to allow the on-board unit to fine-tune, thereby maximizing the motor's output torque. Therefore, even in emergency situations where the motor module lacks (does not store) parameter information, it can safely and reliably operate the on-board unit based on operation signals, ensuring user convenience.

[0015] According to one or more embodiments of the present invention, the motor module can safely operate the on-board device and ensure convenience even in emergency situations such as malfunctions. Attached Figure Description

[0016] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of one implementation of an electric window system;

[0017] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Detailed schematic diagram of the switch module and motor module inside the driver's seat;

[0018] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 Detailed schematic diagram of the switch module and motor module of the first seat in the middle;

[0019] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 Detailed schematic diagram of the switch module and motor module of the second seat in the picture;

[0020] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 Detailed schematic diagram of the switch module and motor module of the third seat in the picture;

[0021] Figure 6 This is an example Figure 1 A flowchart of the operation of the motor module;

[0022] Figure 7 This is an example Figure 1 A diagram showing the initial state of the electric window system in the image;

[0023] Figure 8 This is an example of confirmation. Figure 1 A diagram illustrating the method for identifying the motor module in the diagram;

[0024] Figure 9 This is an example of confirmation. Figure 1 A schematic diagram illustrating the method for identifying the motor module in the diagram;

[0025] Figure 10 This is an example Figure 1A diagram showing the state of the electric window system after the learning process is completed normally;

[0026] Figure 11 This is an example Figure 6 A flowchart detailing the normal mode;

[0027] Figure 12A and Figure 12B This is an example Figure 6 A diagram showing the operating signals and motor status in normal mode;

[0028] Figure 13 This is an example Figure 6 A flowchart detailing the emergency mode; and

[0029] Figures 14A to 14D This is an example Figure 6 A diagram showing the operating signals and motor status in emergency mode. Detailed Implementation

[0030] In embodiments of the invention, numerous specific details have been set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the invention. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the invention can be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known features have not been described in detail to avoid obscuring the invention.

[0031] In the following description, embodiments of the invention will be illustrated with reference to the accompanying drawings. In each drawing, the same or corresponding parts will be indicated by the same reference numerals.

[0032] First, the configuration of the electric window system of the implementation method will be described.

[0033] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of an electric window system 100. The electric window system 100 is installed on a vehicle, including an automatic four-wheeled vehicle. The electric window system 100 includes multiple electric window mechanisms 1A, 1B, 1C and 1D, multiple motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C and 2D, multiple switch modules 3A, 3B, 3C and 3D, and a network 4.

[0034] The power window mechanism 1A, motor module 2A, and switch module 3A are installed in the driver's seat of the vehicle. The power window mechanism 1B, motor module 2B, and switch module 3B are installed in the first seat of the vehicle (e.g., the front passenger seat). The power window mechanism 1C, motor module 2C, and switch module 3C are installed in the second seat of the vehicle (e.g., the left rear seat). The power window mechanism 1D, motor module 2D, and switch module 3D are installed in the third seat of the vehicle (e.g., the right rear seat).

[0035] Network 4 is configured with a wired local area network (LAN) built into the vehicle. The individual motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D, as well as the switch module 3A in the driver's seat, are connected to Network 4. As another example, instead of LAN, a controller area network (CAN), a local interconnect network (LIN), or a wired or wireless network other than CAN and LIN can be configured in the vehicle.

[0036] The electric window mechanisms 1A, 1B, 1C, and 1D are configured with window glass for each window of the driver's seat, the first seat, the second seat, and the third seat of the vehicle, as well as mechanisms for moving the window glass to open and close the window. The electric window mechanisms 1A, 1B, 1C, and 1D have physical individual differences, such as the shape or coefficient of friction between components. The electric window mechanisms 1A, 1B, 1C, and 1D are examples of "vehicle-mounted devices" according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0037] Motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D each have a motor 23 (i.e., the power source that operates the respective power window mechanisms 1A, 1B, 1C, and 1D), a control unit 21, etc. (details will be described below). Each motor module 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D has the same specifications and performance. Figure 1 For convenience, the components located in each motor module 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D are represented by the same reference numerals (which also apply to those described below). Figures 2 to 5 , Figure 7 and Figure 10 ).

[0038] Switch modules 3A, 3B, 3C, and 3D have multiple switches that operate to open and close the windows of the corresponding electric window mechanisms 1A, 1B, 1C, and 1D (details will be described below). Switch modules 3A, 3B, 3C, and 3D are examples of "operation modules" according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0039] The switch module 3A in the driver's seat also includes multiple switches (details will be described below) for remotely operating power window mechanisms 1B, 1C, and 1D located in other seats remote from the driver's seat, as well as a control unit 31. The switch module 3A in the driver's seat communicates with and manages the motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D of each seat via a network 4. The switch module 3A in the driver's seat is an example of a "management module" according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] The motor modules and switch modules (2A and 3A, 2B and 3B, 2C and 3C, 2D and 3D) installed in the same seat are connected one-to-one via wiring harnesses 5A, 5B, 5C, and 5D (but not via network 4). Power is supplied from the vehicle's onboard battery Bt to each of the motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D, as well as the switch module 3A in the driver's seat, via power cable 6.

[0041] The following sections will describe in detail the configurations of the individual motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D, as well as the switch modules 3A, 3B, 3C, and 3D.

[0042] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the motor module 2A and the switch module 3A in the driver's seat. Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the motor module 2B and the switch module 3B in the first seat. Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the motor module 2C and the switch module 3C in the second seat. Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the 2D motor module and 3D switch module in the third seat. Figures 2 to 5 For convenience, corresponding parts are indicated by the same reference numerals.

[0043] like Figures 2 to 5 As shown, the motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C and 2D in each seat include a control unit 21, a drive unit 22, a motor 23, a rotary encoder 28, a communication unit 24, a connection unit 25, a power supply circuit 26, a voltage monitoring circuit 27, etc.

[0044] The control unit 21 consists of a CPU, etc., and internally includes a volatile memory 21a, a non-volatile memory 21b, and a status detection unit 21c. The drive unit 22 includes circuitry for driving the motor 23. The control unit 21 operates the drive unit 22 to control the driving of the motor 23 and operate the corresponding electric window mechanisms 1A, 1B, 1C, and 1D. Figure 1 Information used to operate the corresponding motors 23 and power window mechanisms 1A, 1B, 1C, and 1D is stored in the volatile memory 21a and non-volatile memory 21b of the control unit 21 (details will be described below). The memories 21a and 21b of the motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D are examples of "memory" and "second memory" according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0045] The rotary encoder 28 outputs pulses synchronized with the rotation of the motor 23. The state detection unit 21c of the control unit 21 detects the pulses output from the rotary encoder 28, and based on these pulses, detects the drive state of the motor 23, such as its rotational speed or direction, and also detects the on / off state of the window glass, such as its open / closed position, or the degree of opening / closing of the windows of the electric window mechanisms 1A, 1B, 1C, and 1D. Based on the detection results of the state detection unit 21c, the control unit 21 controls the drive unit 22 to drive the motor 23.

[0046] Communication unit 24 includes circuitry for communication via network 4. Connection unit 25 includes connectors that connect to corresponding switch modules 3A, 3B, 3C, and 3D via wire harnesses 5A, 5B, 5C, and 5D, respectively. Connection unit 25 is provided with multiple terminals Tc, To, Ta, and Tg. One end of each wire 51, 52, 53, and 54 in wire harnesses 5A, 5B, 5C, and 5D is connected to the respective terminals Tc, To, Ta, and Tg.

[0047] Terminals Tc, To, and Ta of control unit 1 and input ports P1, P2, and P3 are connected via internal wirings L1, L2, and L3, respectively. Resistors Rd, Re, and Rf are disposed on internal wirings L1, L2, and L3, respectively. Furthermore, one end of resistor Ra and one end of resistor R1 are connected between resistor Rd and terminal Tc on internal wiring L1, respectively. One end of resistor Rb and one end of resistor R2 are connected between resistor Re and terminal To on internal wiring L2, respectively. One end of resistor Rc is connected between resistor Rf and terminal Ta on internal wiring L3. The other ends of resistors Ra, Rb, and Rc are connected to power supply Vcc1 via switching element Q1. The other ends of resistors R1 and R2 are connected to power supply Vcc2 via switching element Q2. Terminal Tg is grounded.

[0048] A rectifier diode D1 and a power supply circuit 26 are disposed on an internal wiring L4 for supplying power from the vehicle battery Bt to the control unit 21. The internal wiring L4 is connected to an external power supply line 6. The power supply circuit 26 is located on the cathode side of the rectifier diode D1 and converts the high voltage supplied from the vehicle battery Bt to a predetermined low voltage to supply voltage to the control unit 21. A backup power capacitor C1 is disposed between the rectifier diode D1 and the power supply circuit 26. A voltage monitoring circuit 27 monitors the level of the power supply voltage from the vehicle battery Bt.

[0049] Each seat's switch modules 3A, 3B, 3C, and 3D are equipped with a connection unit 35, switches W1, W2, and W3, etc. The connection unit 35 includes connectors for connecting the corresponding motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D via wiring harnesses 5A, 5B, 5C, and 5D. The connection unit 35 is provided with multiple terminals Tc1, Tc2, To1, To2, Ta1, and Tg1. Among terminals Tc1, Tc2, To1, To2, Ta1, and Tg1, the other end of wires 53 and 54 of wiring harnesses 5A, 5B, 5C, and 5D are respectively connected to terminal Ta1 and terminal Tg1.

[0050] To enable motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D to recognize their respective connected switch modules 3A, 3B, 3C, and 3D, the connection state between each motor module and each switch module varies depending on the seat. Specifically, as follows: Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the other ends of wires 51 in wiring harnesses 5A and 5B are respectively connected to terminals Tc1 of switch module 3A in the driver's seat and switch module 3B in the first seat. Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the other ends of wires 51 of harnesses 5C and 5D are connected to terminals Tc2 of the switch module 3C of the second seat and the switch module 3D of the third seat, respectively.

[0051] In addition, such as Figure 2 and Figure 4 As shown, the other ends of wires 52 in wiring harnesses 5A and 5C are respectively connected to terminals To1 of switch module 3A in the driver's seat and switch module 3C in the second seat. Figure 3 and Figure 5 As shown, the other ends of wires 52 of harnesses 5B and 5D are connected to terminals To2 of the switch module 3B of the first seat and the switch module 3D of the third seat, respectively. In this way, four types of harnesses can be used to achieve different connection states for the motor module and the switch module.

[0052] Switches W1, W2, and W3 of each switch module 3A, 3B, 3C, and 3D are switched on (short-circuited) or off (open-circuited) by the user to operate the corresponding power window mechanisms 1A, 1B, 1C, and 1D. Specifically, for example, when the corresponding power window mechanisms 1A, 1B, 1C, and 1D are manually closed, switch W1 is switched on. Furthermore, when the corresponding power window mechanisms 1A, 1B, 1C, and 1D are manually opened, switch W2 is switched on. Furthermore, when the corresponding power window mechanisms 1A, 1B, 1C, and 1D are automatically closed, switches W1 and W3 are switched on. Furthermore, when the manual switching operation of the corresponding power window mechanisms 1A, 1B, 1C, and 1D is stopped, switch W2 or switch W1 is switched off. In addition, when the automatic switching operation of the corresponding electric window mechanisms 1A, 1B, 1C and 1D stops, switch W2 or switch W1 is turned on or off again.

[0053] Switching modules 3A, 3B, 3C, and 3D, which are installed near and connected to motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D via wiring harnesses 5A, 5B, 5C, and 5D instead of via network 4, are examples of a "second switching module" according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0054] In switch modules 3A, 3B, 3C, and 3D, rectifier diode D2 is disposed on internal wiring L5, with one end connected to terminal Tc1. Rectifier diode D3 is disposed on internal wiring L6, with one end connected to terminal Tc2. Each cathode of rectifier diodes D2 and D3 is connected to one end of switch W1.

[0055] Rectifier diode D4 is located on internal wiring L7, with one end connected to terminal To1. Rectifier diode D5 is located on internal wiring L8, with one end connected to terminal To2. The cathodes of rectifier diodes D4 and D5 are connected to one end of switch W2.

[0056] One end of the internal wiring L9 is connected to terminal Ta1, and the other end is connected to one end of switch W3. The other end of each of switches W1, W2, and W3 is connected to internal wiring L10. Terminal Tg1 is also connected to internal wiring L10.

[0057] One end of resistor R4 is connected to the internal wiring L5 between terminal Tc1 and rectifier diode D2. One end of resistor R3 is connected to the internal wiring L6 between terminal Tc2 and rectifier diode D3. One end of resistor R6 is connected to the internal wiring L7 between terminal To1 and rectifier diode D4. One end of resistor R5 is connected to the internal wiring L8 between terminal To2 and rectifier diode D5. The other ends of resistors R3, R4, R5, and R6 are connected to internal wiring L10. The resistance values ​​of resistors R3 and R4 are different from each other. Furthermore, the resistance values ​​of resistors R5 and R6 are also different from each other.

[0058] The identification information learning and processing described below ( Figure 6 In step S2), switches W1, W2, and W3 of switch modules 3A, 3B, 3C, and 3D are not connected. At this time, Figure 2 The motor module 2A inside the driver's seat and Figure 3 In the motor module 2B within the first seat, the control unit 21 activates the switching element Q2, causing the current Vcc2 from the power supply to flow through resistor R1, terminal Tc, etc., to the wire 51 connected to the wiring harnesses 5A and 5B connected to terminal Tc. The current passing through wire 51 flows to the ground through terminal Tc1, resistor R4, terminal Tg1 of the switch module 3A in the driver's seat and the switch module 3B in the first seat, wire 54 of the wiring harnesses 5A and 5B connected to terminal Tg1, and terminal Tg of motor modules 2A and 2B.

[0059] In addition, Figure 4 The motor module 2C for the second seat and Figure 5 In the motor module 2D of the third seat, when the control unit 21 turns on the switching element Q2, the current from the power supply Vcc2 flows through resistor R1, terminal Tc, etc., to the wire 51 connected to the wiring harnesses 5C and 5D of terminal Tc. The current through wire 51 flows to the ground through terminal Tc2, resistor R3, terminal Tg1 of the switching modules 3C and 3D of the second and third seats, wire 54 connected to the wiring harnesses 5C and 5D of terminal Tg1, and terminal Tg of motor modules 2C and 2D.

[0060] In addition, Figure 2 Motor module 2A in the driver's seat and Figure 4In the motor module 2C of the second seat, when the control unit 21 turns on the switching element Q2, the current from the power supply Vcc2 flows through the resistor R2, terminal To, etc., to the wire 52 connected to the wiring harnesses 5A and 5C of terminal To. The current through the wire 52 flows to the ground through terminal To1, resistor R6, terminal Tg1 of the switching module 3A in the driver's seat and the switching module 3C in the second seat, wire 54 of the wiring harnesses 5A and 5C connected to terminal Tg1, and terminal Tg of the motor modules 2A and 2C.

[0061] In addition, Figure 3 The motor module 2B of the first seat and Figure 5 In the motor module 2D of the third seat, when the control unit 21 turns on the switching element Q2, the current from the power supply Vcc2 flows through the resistor R2, terminal To, etc., to the wire 52 connected to the wiring harnesses 5B and 5D of terminal To. The current through the wire 52 flows to the ground through terminal To2, resistor R5, terminal Tg1 of the first seat switch module 3B and the third seat switch module 3D, wire 54 of the wiring harnesses 5B and 5D connected to terminal Tg1, and terminal Tg of motor modules 2B and 2D.

[0062] As described above, voltage is applied to input ports P1 and P2 in control unit 21 via the current flowing from the power supply Vcc2 of motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D to ground through switch modules 3A, 3B, 3C, and 3D. Control unit 21 determines the identification information of motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D to which control unit 21 belongs based on the voltage values ​​applied to input ports P1 and P2 (details will be described below).

[0063] The normal mode will be described below ( Figure 6 Step S5 in the process, and Figure 11 ) or emergency mode ( Figure 6 Step S7 in the process, and Figure 13In motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D, control unit 21 turns on switch element Q1, causing current from power supply Vcc1 to flow through resistors Ra, Rb, and Rc, terminals Tc, To, and Ta, to wires 51, 52, and 53 connected to wiring harnesses 5A, 5B, 5C, and 5D at terminals Tc, To, and Ta. In switch modules 3A, 3B, 3C, and 3D, when switches W1, W2, and W3 are not turned on, current passing through wires 51, 52, and 53 of wiring harnesses 5A, 5B, 5C, and 5D flows to ground through terminals Tc1, Tc2, To1, To2, and Ta1, resistors R4, R3, R6, and R5 connected to wires 51, 52, and 53, terminal Tg1, wires 54 connected to wiring harnesses 5A, 5B, 5C, and 5D at terminal Tg1, and terminal Tg of motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D.

[0064] Additionally, when any of the switches W1, W2, and W3 is turned on, the current flowing through the wires 51, 52, and 53 of the wiring harnesses 5A, 5B, 5C, and 5D flows to the ground via the terminals Tc1, Tc2, To1, To2, and Ta1 connected to the wires 51, 52, and 53, the switches W1, W2, and W3 that are turned on, the terminal Tg1, the wires 54 of the wiring harnesses 5A, 5B, 5C, and 5D connected to the terminal Tg1, and the terminals Tg of the motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D.

[0065] As described above, voltages are applied to input ports P1, P2, and P3 in control unit 21 via the current flowing from the power supply Vccl of motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D to the ground through switch modules 3A, 3B, 3C, and 3D. Furthermore, the magnitude of the voltages applied to input ports P1, P2, and P3 changes according to the operating states of switches W1, W2, and W3. Control unit 21 interprets the changes in voltages applied to input ports P1, P2, and P3 as operating signals input from switch modules 3A, 3B, 3C, and 3D via connection unit 25 based on the states of switches W1, W2, and W3. Based on the operating signals, control unit 21 controls drive unit 22 to drive motor 23, and causes corresponding electric window mechanisms 1A, 1B, 1C, and 1D to open and close the windows.

[0066] like Figure 2 As shown, in addition to the above configuration, the switch module 3A in the driver's seat includes a control unit 31, a communication unit 34, switches W4b, W5b, W6b, W4c, W5c, W6c, W4d, W5d, and W6d, a power supply circuit 36, a voltage monitoring circuit 37, etc. The control unit 31 includes a CPU, etc., and internally includes volatile memory 31a and non-volatile memory 31b. The communication unit 34 includes circuitry for communication via network 4.

[0067] Switches W4b, W5b, and W6b are switched on or off by the user to remotely operate the power window mechanism 1B in the first seat. Switches W4c, W5c, and W6c are switched on or off by the user to remotely operate the power window mechanism 1C in the second seat. Switches W4d, W5d, and W6d are switched on or off by the user to remotely operate the power window mechanism 1D in the third seat. When switches W4b, W4c, and W4d are switched on and off, the same operation is performed as when switch W1 of each seat is operated. When switches W5b, W5c, and W5d are switched on and off, the same operation is performed as when switch W2 of each seat is operated. When switches W6b, W6c, and W6d are switched on and off, the same operation is performed as when switch W3 of each seat is operated. In contrast to the motor modules 2B, 2C, and 2D in the other seats, the switch module 3A in the driver's seat, located away from the switch modules 3B, 3C, and 3D in the other seats, is an example of a "first switch module" according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0068] One end of each of switches W4b, W5b, W6b, W4c, W5c, W6c, W4d, W5d, and W6d is connected to control unit 31. The other end of each of switches W4b, W5b, W6b, W4c, W5c, W6c, W4d, W5d, and W6d is grounded. Control unit 31 detects the on or off operating state of each of switches W4b, W5b, W6b, W4c, W5c, W6c, W4d, W5d, and W6d. Based on the operating state, control unit 31 generates operating command information for operating the power window mechanisms 1B, 1C, and 1D in the other seats, and sends the operating command information to the motor modules 2B, 2C, and 2D in the other seats via network 4 through communication unit 34.

[0069] A power supply circuit 36 ​​is located on internal wiring L11 and supplies power from the vehicle battery Bt to the control unit 31. Internal wiring L11 is connected to external power line 6. A rectifier diode D6 is located between the power supply circuit 36 ​​and the vehicle battery Bt. The power supply circuit 36 ​​converts the high voltage supplied from the vehicle battery Bt to a predetermined low voltage and supplies it to the control unit 31. A power backup capacitor C2 is located between the rectifier diode D6 and the power supply circuit 36. A voltage monitoring circuit 37 monitors the level of the power supply voltage from the vehicle battery Bt.

[0070] The operation of motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C and 2D will be described next.

[0071] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating the operation of motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D. Figure 7 This is a diagram illustrating the initial state of the electric window system 100. Figure 8 and Figure 9 This is a diagram illustrating a method for determining the identification information of motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D.

[0072] like Figure 7 As shown, in the initial state of the electric window system 100, no information is stored in the volatile memory 31a of the switch module 3A in the driver's seat, nor in the volatile memory 21a and non-volatile memory 21b of each of the motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D. On the other hand, the identification information Ai, Bi, Ci, and Di, and the parameter information Ap, Bp, Cp, and Dp of each motor module 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D are stored in the non-volatile memory 31b of the switch module 3A in the driver's seat.

[0073] The identification information Ai, Bi, Ci, and Di indicates which seat each of the motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D is installed in for the power window mechanism. The parameter information Ap, Bp, Cp, and Dp is information used to control the dedicated motors 23 for each of the power window mechanisms 1A, 1B, 1C, and 1D, enabling each motor module 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D to operate its corresponding power window mechanism 1A, 1B, 1C, and 1D. Specifically, for example, the parameter information Ap, Bp, Cp, and Dp includes information for controlling the degree of opening and closing of the windows in each of the power window mechanisms 1A, 1B, 1C, and 1D, or the opening and closing speed corresponding to the window glass's position, and information for detecting and releasing foreign objects in each of the power window mechanisms 1A, 1B, 1C, and 1D. The identification information Ai, Bi, Ci, and Di of motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D, along with the parameter information Ap, Bp, Cp, and Dp, are stored in non-volatile memory 31b in association with each other.

[0074] When the vehicle's IG (ignition) switch is turned on ( Figure 6 In step S1 ("Yes"), the control unit 21 of motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D performs identification information learning processing (step S2). In this identification information learning processing, the control unit 21 first checks whether identification information is stored in the non-volatile memory 21b. When no identification information is stored in the non-volatile memory 21b, the control unit 21 detects the voltage values ​​applied to input ports P1 and P2 according to the connection status with the corresponding switch modules 3A, 3B, 3C, and 3D.

[0075] like Figure 2 As shown, when wire harness 5A is connected to connection units 25 and 35, due to the voltage division ratio of resistors R1 and R4, the voltage applied to input port P1 is within the range equal to or greater than a predetermined value V2 and less than a predetermined value V3, such as... Figure 8As shown. Furthermore, as... Figure 8 As shown, due to the voltage division ratio of resistors R2 and R6, the voltage applied to input port P2 is also within the range of being equal to or greater than the predetermined value V2 and less than the predetermined value V3. In this case, as... Figure 9 As shown, the control unit 21 determines the identification information Ai of the motor module 2A to which the motor module 2A belongs for the power window mechanism 1A in the driver's seat, and stores the identification information Ai in the non-volatile memory 21b.

[0076] In addition, such as Figure 3 As shown, when wire harness 5B is connected to connection units 25 and 35, due to the voltage division ratio of resistors R1 and R4, the voltage applied to input port P1 is within the range equal to or greater than a predetermined value V2 and less than a predetermined value V3, such as... Figure 8 As shown. Furthermore, due to the voltage division ratio of resistors R2 and R5, the voltage applied to input port P2 is within a range equal to or greater than a predetermined value V1 and less than a predetermined value V2, such as... Figure 8 As shown. In this case, as Figure 9 As shown, the control unit 21 determines the identification information Bi of the motor module 2B to which the motor module 2B belongs for the electric window mechanism 1B in the first seat, and stores the identification information Bi in the non-volatile memory 21b.

[0077] In addition, such as Figure 4 As shown, when wire harness 5C is connected to connection units 25 and 35, due to the voltage division ratio of resistors R1 and R3, the voltage applied to input port P1 is within the range equal to or greater than a predetermined value V1 and less than a predetermined value V2, such as... Figure 8 As shown. Furthermore, due to the voltage division ratio of resistors R2 and R6, the voltage applied to input port P2 is within a range equal to or greater than a predetermined value V2 and less than a predetermined value V3, such as... Figure 8 As shown. In this case, as Figure 9 As shown, the control unit 21 determines the identification information Ci of the motor module 2C to which the motor module 2C belongs for the electric window mechanism 1C in the second seat, and stores the identification information Ci in the non-volatile memory 21b.

[0078] In addition, such as Figure 5 As shown, when the wire harness 5D is connected to the connection units 25 and 35, due to the voltage division ratio of resistors R1 and R3, the voltage applied to the input port P1 is within the range equal to or greater than a predetermined value V1 and less than a predetermined value V2, such as... Figure 8 As shown. Furthermore, as... Figure 8As shown, when the voltage applied to input port P2 is also within the range equal to or greater than a predetermined value V1 and less than a predetermined value V2 due to the voltage division ratio of resistors R2 and R5, control unit 21 determines the identification information Di of the motor module 2D to which the motor module 2D belongs for the electric window mechanism 1D of the third seat, and stores the identification information Di in non-volatile memory 21b, as shown. Figure 9 As shown.

[0079] As described above, when the identification information Ai, Bi, Ci, and Di is determined by motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D and stored in non-volatile memory 21b, control unit 21 instructs communication unit 24 to notify switch module 3A in driver's seat of the identification information Ai, Bi, Ci, and Di via network 4. As a result, the identification information learning process in motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D is completed.

[0080] On the other hand, due to certain reasons such as wiring faults, the voltage value applied to at least one of the input ports P1 and P2 of the control unit 21 of motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D may be less than a predetermined value V1, or equal to or greater than a predetermined value V3. In this case, the control unit 21 cannot determine the identification information of the motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D to which the control unit 21 belongs, and determines an "abnormality," such as... Figure 9 As shown, the control unit 21 sends an error notification signal via the communication unit 24 and network 4 to the switch module 3A in the driver's seat, indicating an anomaly that the identification information cannot be learned. Accordingly, the identification information learning process in the motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D is completed.

[0081] Immediately following the commencement of the identification information learning process, upon confirming that the identification information Ai, Bi, Ci, and Di are stored in the non-volatile memory 21b, the control unit 21 instructs the communication unit 24 to send the identification information Ai, Bi, Ci, and Di to the switch module 3A in the driver's seat via the network 4. Accordingly, the identification information learning process for motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D is completed.

[0082] In the switch module 3A located in the driver's seat, when the identification information Ai, Bi, Ci, and Di sent from motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D is received by the communication unit 34, the control unit 31 stores the identification information Ai, Bi, Ci, and Di in volatile memory 31a. When the received identification information Ai, Bi, Ci, and Di is registered (stored) in non-volatile memory 31b, the control unit 31 reads the parameter information Ap, Bp, Cp, and Dp corresponding to the identification information from the non-volatile memory 31b, and causes the communication unit 34 to send the parameter information to motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D via network 4. At this time, the control unit 31 appends the corresponding identification information Ai, Bi, Ci, and Di to the parameter information Ap, Bp, Cp, and Dp to be sent.

[0083] Furthermore, when communication unit 34 receives an abnormal notification signal from motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D, control unit 31 stores the content of the abnormal notification in volatile memory 31a. Control unit 31 transmits the received abnormal notification signal to the vehicle-side electronic control unit (ECU) (not shown), instead of transmitting parameter information Ap, Bp, Cp, and Dp via network 4. If switch module 3A in the driver's seat does not receive identification information or abnormal notification signals from motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D for some reason such as a communication failure, no information regarding identification information is stored in volatile memory 31a.

[0084] In motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D, when the identification information learning process is complete, control unit 21 then performs parameter learning processing. Figure 6 (Step S3 in the above steps). In this parameter learning process, for example, the communication unit 24 receives parameter information Ap, Bp, Cp, and Dp sent from the switch module 3A in the driver's seat within a predetermined time after the identification information learning process ends. In this case, when information consistent with the identification information Ai, Bi, Ci, and Di stored in the non-volatile memory 21b is appended to the received parameter information Ap, Bp, Cp, and Dp, the control unit 21 stores the parameter information Ap, Bp, Cp, and Dp in the volatile memory 21a. The control unit 21 causes the communication unit 24 to send a learning completion notification signal indicating that the learning of parameter information Ap, Bp, Cp, and Dp has been successfully completed to the switch module 3A in the driver's seat via the network 4. At this time, the control unit 21 appends the identification information Ai, Bi, Ci, and Di stored in the non-volatile memory 21b to the learning completion notification signal to be sent. As a result, the parameter learning process ends in the motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D.

[0085] Furthermore, even if parameter information Ap, Bp, Cp, and Dp are received within a predetermined time after the identification information learning process has ended, if the information consistent with the identification information Ai, Bi, Ci, and Di cannot be added to the parameter information Ap, Bp, Cp, and Dp stored in the non-volatile memory 21b within the predetermined time, the control unit 21 terminates the parameter learning process. Furthermore, even if the identification information Ai, Bi, Ci, and Di are not stored in the non-volatile memory 21b, the control unit 21 also terminates the parameter learning process. In these cases, the parameter information Ap, Bp, Cp, and Dp are not stored in the volatile memory 21a, and a learning completion notification signal is not sent to the switch module 3A in the driver's seat.

[0086] Furthermore, even if parameter information Ap, Bp, Cp, and Dp are not received within a predetermined time after the identification information learning process ends due to some reason such as a communication failure, the control unit 21 terminates the parameter learning process. Similarly, in this case, parameter information Ap, Bp, Cp, and Dp are not stored in the volatile memory 21a, and a learning completion notification signal is not sent to the switch module 3A in the driver's seat.

[0087] In the switch module 3A in the driver's seat, if the communication unit 34 receives a learning completion notification signal sent from the motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C and 2D within a predetermined time after sending parameter information Ap, Bp, Cp and Dp, the control unit 31 stores the content of the notification signal in the volatile memory 31a.

[0088] On the other hand, if the communication unit 34 does not receive a learning completion notification within a predetermined time after sending parameter information Ap, Bp, Cp, and Dp, the control unit 31 determines that the sent parameter information Ap, Bp, Cp, and Dp has not been properly learned in motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D. The control unit 31 stores this fact in volatile memory 31a and notifies the ECU on the vehicle side of this fact.

[0089] Figure 10 This diagram illustrates the state after the learning process (identification information learning process and parameter learning process) of the electric window system 100 is completed normally. As mentioned above, when the identification information learning process and parameter learning process are completed without any abnormalities in motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D, such as... Figure 10As shown, the identification information Ai, Bi, Ci, and Di of motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D is stored in the non-volatile memory 21b of motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D, and the parameter information Ap, Bp, Cp, and Dp specifically for the corresponding electric window mechanisms 1A, 1B, 1C, and 1D is stored in the volatile memory 21a. Furthermore, the "identification information learning result" indicating successful completion of identification information learning and the "parameter information learning result" indicating successful completion of parameter information processing in motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D are stored in the volatile memory 31a of the switch module 3A in the driver's seat.

[0090] In the event of an anomaly in motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D during identification information learning or parameter learning, the “identification information learning result” or “parameter information learning result” indicating this fact is stored in the volatile memory 31a of the switch module 3A in the driver’s seat.

[0091] When the parameter learning process in motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D is complete, control unit 21 checks whether the parameter information is stored in volatile memory 21a. At this time, if any one of the parameter information Ap, Bp, Cp, or Dp is stored in volatile memory 21a (…), then… Figure 6 When "Yes" is selected in step S4, the control unit 21 shifts to normal mode (step S5). Normal mode continues unless the IG switch is turned off ("No" in step S6).

[0092] Figure 11 It is a flowchart illustrating the details of the normal mode. Figure 12A and Figure 12B This diagram illustrates the operating signals and status of motor 23 in normal mode.

[0093] When motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D are in normal mode, and switches W1, W2, and W3 in switch modules 3A, 3B, 3C, and 3D operate the power window mechanisms 1A, 1B, 1C, and 1D of their respective seats... Figures 2 to 5 Any one of them is operated, and the operation signal corresponding to the operation state is input from switch modules 3A, 3B, 3C, and 3D via wiring harnesses 5A, 5B, 5C, and 5D to the corresponding motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D. Figure 11 In step S11, "Yes" is selected, and Figure 12A and Figure 12B The operation signal in the code is "Yes".

[0094] Furthermore, in the driver's seat switch module 3A, switches W4b, W5b, W6b, W4c, W5c, W6c, W4d, W5d, and W6d of the power window mechanisms 1B, 1C, and 1D in other seats are remotely operated. Figure 2 When any one of the switches is operated, the control unit 31 generates a remote operation signal to operate the power window mechanisms 1B, 1C, and 1D in the other seats, based on the operating state of the switch, and sends the remote operation signal via the communication unit 34 through the network 4. At this time, the control unit 31 attaches the identification information Bi, Ci, and Di of the motor modules 2B, 2C, and 2D in the other seats corresponding to the operated switches W4b, W5b, W6b, W4c, W5c, W6c, W4d, W5d, and W6d to the remote operation signal.

[0095] In motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D, when the communication unit 24 receives a remote operation signal sent from the switch module 3A in the driver's seat via the network 4 ( Figure 11 When "Yes" is selected in step S12, the control unit 21 checks the identification information attached to the received remote operation signal against the identification information Ai, Bi, Ci, and Di stored in the non-volatile memory 21b. In the motor module 2A in the driver's seat, the identification information Bi, Ci, and Di attached to the remote operation signal does not match the identification information Ai stored in the non-volatile memory 21b ("No" in step S13). Meanwhile, in the motor modules 2B, 2C, and 2D of the other seats, the identification information Bi, Ci, and Di attached to the remote operation signal matches the identification information Bi, Ci, and Di stored in the non-volatile memory 21b ("Yes" in step S13). Therefore, the control unit 21 of the motor modules 2B, 2C, and 2D determines that a remote operation signal destined for the control unit 21 has been received. Figure 12A and Figure 12B The remote operation signal in the system is "Yes".

[0096] Next, the control unit 21 identifies the type of operation signal input from the corresponding switch modules 3A, 3B, 3C, and 3D, or a remote operation signal received from the driver's seat switch module 3A destined for the control unit 21. Figure 11 Step S14). Here, if the operation signal or remote operation signal is identified as an "automatic turn-on operation signal", the process proceeds to step S15. Based on the automatic turn-on operation signal, the parameter information Ap, Bp, Cp and Dp stored in the volatile memory 21a, and the status detection unit 21c ( Figures 2 to 5 Based on the detection results (driving status of motor 23, window opening / closing status, etc.), control unit 21 causes drive unit 22 to drive motor 23. Figure 12BThe motor 23 operates "drive" and automatically opens the windows of the corresponding electric window mechanisms 1A, 1B, 1C, and 1D, causing the motor 23 to output a predetermined torque T less than the maximum torque Tmax. Figure 12B The smaller the current supplied from the drive unit 22 to the motor 23, the smaller the torque output by the motor 23, the higher the speed of the motor 23, and the faster the movement speed of the car window glass.

[0097] If the operation signal or remote operation signal is identified as a "manual open operation signal", the process proceeds to step S16. Based on the manual open operation signal, the parameter information Ap, Bp, Cp and Dp stored in the volatile memory 21a, and the detection result of the status detection unit 21c, the control unit 21 causes the drive unit 22 to drive the motor 23 ( Figure 12A The motor is operated under the "drive" function, and the windows of the corresponding electric window mechanisms 1A, 1B, 1C, and 1D are manually opened, causing motor 23 to output a predetermined torque T. Figure 12A The motor torque T in the figure.

[0098] If the operation signal or remote operation signal is identified as a "manual shutdown operation signal", the process proceeds to step S17. Based on the manual shutdown operation signal, the parameter information Ap, Bp, Cp and Dp stored in the volatile memory 21a, and the detection result of the status detection unit 21c, the control unit 21 causes the drive unit 22 to drive the motor 23 ( Figure 12A The motor 23 operates "drive" and manually closes the windows of the corresponding electric window mechanisms 1A, 1B, 1C, and 1D, causing the motor 23 to output a predetermined torque T. Figure 12A The motor torque T in the figure.

[0099] Furthermore, if the operation signal or remote operation signal is identified as an "automatic shutdown operation signal," the process proceeds to step S18. Based on the automatic shutdown operation signal, the parameter information Ap, Bp, Cp, and Dp stored in the volatile memory 21a, and the detection result of the status detection unit 21c, the control unit 21 causes the drive unit 22 to drive the motor 23 ( Figure 12B The motor 23 operates "drive" and automatically closes the windows of the corresponding electric window mechanisms 1A, 1B, 1C, and 1D, causing the motor 23 to output a predetermined torque T. Figure 12B The motor torque T in the figure. Figure 11 Steps S15 to S18 are examples of "normal processing" according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0100] On the other hand, in motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D, when parameter information Ap, Bp, Cp, and Dp are not stored in volatile memory 21a due to some reason such as a fault in volatile memory 21a after the parameter information learning process is completed ( Figure 6 If "No" is selected in step S4, the control unit 21 switches to emergency mode (step S7). Afterward, unless the IG switch is turned off ("No" in step S8), emergency mode continues.

[0101] Figure 13 This is a flowchart illustrating the details of emergency mode. Figures 14A to 14D This is a diagram illustrating the operating signals and the status of motor 23 in emergency mode.

[0102] When motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D are in emergency mode, operation signals are input from the corresponding switch modules 3A, 3B, 3C, and 3D to motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D. Figure 13 In step S21, "Yes", and Figure 14A , Figure 14B , Figure 14C and Figure 14D If the operation signal is "yes", the control unit 21 identifies the type of operation signal (step S23).

[0103] When the operation signal is identified as a "manual open operation signal" ( Figure 14A When the manual open operation signal is received, the parameter information Ap, Bp, Cp and Dp stored in the volatile memory 21a, and the detection result of the status detection unit 21c, the control unit 21 causes the drive unit 22 to drive the motor 23. Figure 14A The motor is operated under the "drive" function, and the windows of the corresponding electric window mechanisms 1A, 1B, 1C, and 1D are manually opened, causing motor 23 to output the maximum torque Tmax. Figure 14A The greater the current supplied to the motor 23 from the drive unit 22, the greater the torque output by the motor 23, the lower the speed of the motor 23, and the slower the movement speed of the car window glass.

[0104] When it is determined that the operation signal is a "manual shutdown operation signal" or an "automatic shutdown operation signal" ( Figure 14C and 14D When the signal is turned off, the process proceeds to step S25. Based on the manual shutdown operation signal or the automatic shutdown operation signal, the control unit 21 causes the drive unit 22 to drive the motor 23 for a short period of time. Figure 14C and 14DThe motor 23 operates "drive" and, in the closing direction, fine-tunes the window glass of the corresponding electric window mechanisms 1A, 1B, 1C, and 1D, so that the motor 23 outputs the maximum torque Tmax. Figure 14C and Figure 14D The motor torque Tmax is measured in the motor. At this time, the motor 23 is driven for a short time and then stops. The windows of the corresponding electric window mechanisms 1A, 1B, 1C and 1D move a small displacement in the closing direction, so that the motor 23 outputs the maximum torque Tmax even when a manual or automatic closing operation signal is continuously input. Figure 13 Step S25 is an example of "fine-tuning processing" according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0105] After identifying the operation signal as an "automatic open operation signal" Figure 14B In the case of ), the automatic open operation signal is ignored and motor 23 is not driven, such as Figure 13 As shown ( Figure 14B When the motor is operated to "stop", the windows of the corresponding electric window mechanisms 1A, 1B, 1C and 1D do not open.

[0106] On the other hand, when the communication unit 24 receives a remote operation signal sent from the switch module 3A in the driver's seat ( Figure 13 In step S22, if "Yes" is selected, the control unit 21 ignores the remote operation signal and does not drive the motor 23, so that the windows of the corresponding electric window mechanisms 1A, 1B, 1C and 1D do not perform opening and closing operations.

[0107] According to the above implementation, in the vehicle's power window system 100, using parameter learning processing, motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D receive parameter information Ap, Bp, Cp, and Dp from the switch module 3A in the driver's seat via network 4. This parameter information is used to control the motors 23 dedicated to the corresponding power window mechanisms 1A, 1B, 1C, and 1D. The parameter information Ap, Bp, Cp, and Dp is then stored in volatile memory 21a. Afterwards, with the parameter information Ap, Bp, Cp, and Dp stored in volatile memory 21a, motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D switch to "normal mode." In motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D, based on operation signals or remote operation signals from switch modules 3A, 3B, 3C, and 3D, and the parameter information Ap, Bp, Cp, and Dp, the motors 23 are driven, causing the motors 23 to output a predetermined torque T, and the windows of the power window mechanisms 1A, 1B, 1C, and 1D perform opening and closing operations. Therefore, when motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D respectively have (store) corresponding parameter information Ap, Bp, Cp, and Dp, according to the operation signals or remote operation signals from switch modules 3A, 3B, 3C, and 3D, motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D can safely and reliably open and close the window glass of electric window mechanisms 1A, 1B, 1C, and 1D.

[0108] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, if parameter information Ap, Bp, Cp, and Dp is not stored in the volatile memory 21a due to some reason such as a malfunction, motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D switch to "emergency mode". Based on the closing operation signals from the switch modules 3A, 3B, 3C, and 3D in the same seat, motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D drive motor 23 for a certain period of time, and cause the window glass of the corresponding electric window mechanisms 1A, 1B, 1C, and 1D to be finely adjusted in the closing direction, so that motor 23 outputs maximum torque Tmax. Therefore, even in emergency situations where motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D lack (stored) parameter information Ap, Bp, Cp, and Dp, based on the closing operation signals from switch modules 3A, 3B, 3C, and 3D in the same seat, motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D can safely and reliably fine-tune the windows of power window mechanisms 1A, 1B, 1C, and 1D in the closing direction, thus ensuring user convenience. Furthermore, in emergency mode, even when switches W1, W2, and W3 of switch modules 3A, 3B, 3C, and 3D are closed, the windows of power window mechanisms 1A, 1B, 1C, and 1D slightly shift in the closing direction and then stop, preventing the danger of foreign objects getting stuck in the window and ensuring high safety. Moreover, by repeatedly performing the closing operation of switches W1, W2, and W3, the window glass can be moved little by little in the closing direction to close the window.

[0109] Furthermore, in the above embodiments, motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D control the drive of motor 23 based on manual opening operation signals from switch modules 3A, 3B, 3C, and 3D in the same seat, to manually open the windows of the corresponding electric window mechanisms 1A, 1B, 1C, and 1D, so that motor 23 outputs maximum torque Tmax. Therefore, even in emergency situations where motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D do not have (stored) parameter information Ap, Bp, Cp, and Dp, they can safely and reliably manually open the windows of electric window mechanisms 1A, 1B, 1C, and 1D based on manual opening operation signals from switch modules 3A, 3B, 3C, and 3D in the same seat, thereby improving user convenience.

[0110] Furthermore, in the above embodiments, in emergency mode, the automatic opening operation signals input from switch modules 3A, 3B, 3C, and 3D are ignored, preventing the windows of the power window mechanisms 1A, 1B, 1C, and 1D of each seat from opening too wide, thus ensuring safety. Additionally, in the motor modules 2B, 2C, and 2D of the other seats, the remote operation signals received from the switch module 3A in the driver's seat are ignored, preventing the windows of the power window mechanisms 1B, 1C, and 1D of the other seats from opening or closing remotely, thus ensuring even greater safety.

[0111] Furthermore, in the above embodiments, during the identification information learning process, based on the voltage applied to input ports P1 and P2 according to the connection status (connection status between motor module connection unit 25 and switch module connection unit 35) of switch modules 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D without passing through network 4, motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D determine their identification information Ai, Bi, Ci, and Di, and store the identification information Ai, Bi, Ci, and Di in non-volatile memory 21b. When transmitting parameter information Ap, Bp, Cp, Dp or remote operation signals via network 4, switch module 3A in the driver's seat appends the identification information Ai, Bi, Ci, and Di of the motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D to the destination information. Therefore, motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D reliably receive the identification information Ai, Bi, Ci, and Di of motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D, which are attached to the remote operation signals or parameter information Ap, Bp, Cp, and Dp of motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D. Based on this information, the corresponding electric window mechanisms 1A, 1B, 1C, and 1D can be opened and closed safely and appropriately.

[0112] Furthermore, in the above embodiments, the identification information Ai, Bi, Ci, and Di of each motor module 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D indicates which power window mechanism the motor module is used for. The parameter information Ap, Bp, Cp, and Dp corresponding to each identification information Ai, Bi, Ci, and Di is parameter information used to control the motor 23 dedicated to the power window mechanism corresponding to the identification information. Therefore, in motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D, the parameter information Ap, Bp, Cp, and Dp suitable for operating the corresponding power window mechanisms 1A, 1B, 1C, and 1D can be reliably received from the switch module 3A in the driver's seat, and the corresponding power window mechanisms 1A, 1B, 1C, and 1D can be opened and closed appropriately based on the parameter information.

[0113] Furthermore, even when multiple power window mechanisms 1A, 1B, 1C, and 1D have physical differences in shape, coefficient of friction between components, etc., multiple motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D with identical specifications and performance can be used to enable the power window mechanisms to perform opening and closing operations. Moreover, regardless of the vehicle type or the installation location of the motor modules, motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D with identical specifications and performance can be used for the power window mechanisms of each seat. Furthermore, it is not necessary to have different numbers of components among the multiple motor modules, thus reducing the number of components and facilitating the handling and management of the motor modules.

[0114] In embodiments of the present invention, various implementation methods other than those described above can be employed.

[0115] For example, in the above embodiments, for motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D, the identification information Ai, Bi, Ci, and Di are stored in non-volatile memory 21b, and the parameter information Ap, Bp, Cp, and Dp are stored in volatile memory 21a. However, the embodiments of the present invention are not limited to this. The identification information can be stored in volatile memory 21a, or the parameter information can be stored in non-volatile memory 21b. Furthermore, both the identification information and the parameter information can be stored in volatile memory 21a, or they can be stored in non-volatile memory 21b.

[0116] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, based on the voltage applied to input ports P1 and P2 according to the connection status with switch modules 3A, 3B, 3C, and 3D, motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D determine their identification information Ai, Bi, Ci, and Di, and store this information in non-volatile memory 21b. Alternatively, the motor modules can determine their own identification information and store it in memory. Moreover, the non-volatile memory 21b of motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D pre-stores their identification information, and control unit 21 can read the non-volatile memory 21b to identify the identification information. In this case, the processing load on motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D is reduced, and the time until the power window mechanisms 1A, 1B, 1C, and 1D can be operated is shortened.

[0117] Furthermore, in the above embodiments, when a manual opening operation signal is input from switch modules 3A, 3B, 3C, and 3D while motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D are in emergency mode, the windows of power window mechanisms 1A, 1B, 1C, and 1D are manually opened. When an automatic or manual closing operation signal is input, the windows are slightly adjusted in the closing direction. Moreover, the embodiments of the present invention are not limited to this. For example, when an automatic opening operation signal is input from a switch module while the motor module is in emergency mode, the power window mechanism can be automatically opened, or when an automatic or manual opening operation signal is input, the power window mechanism can be slightly adjusted in the opening direction. Furthermore, when a remote operation signal is received from motor module 2A in the driver's seat, and motor modules 2B, 2C, and 2D in other seats are in emergency mode, the operation of the windows of power window mechanisms 1B, 1C, and 1D can be controlled in the same manner as when operation signals are input from switch modules 3B, 3C, and 3D in the same seats.

[0118] In addition, Figure 12A and Figure 12B as well as Figures 14A to 14D In the illustrated embodiment, an example is described in which the drive motor 23 outputs a constant torque in motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D. For example, the drive of motor 23 can be controlled so that the magnitude of the output torque changes according to the opening and closing position of the window glass, the load applied to motor 23, etc.

[0119] Furthermore, in the above embodiments, the following example is described: the motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C and 2D determine and store the identification information of the motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C and 2D at one time in the identification information learning process, and receive and store the parameter information of the motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C and 2D at one time in the parameter learning process, and when the storage of identification information or parameter information fails, the learning process can be retried up to a predetermined number of times.

[0120] Furthermore, in the above embodiments, an example is described where the electric window system 100 is provided with four corresponding electric window mechanisms 1A, 1B, 1C and 1D, motor modules 2A, 2B, 2C and 2D, and switch modules 3A, 3B, 3C and 3D, and each of these quantities may be one, or may be multiple in addition to four.

[0121] Furthermore, in the above embodiments, the switch module 3A in the driver's seat can be used as the management module, or a switch module with the same configuration as the switch modules 3B, 3C, and 3D in other seats can be used as the switch module in the driver's seat, and a different management module can be set.

[0122] Furthermore, in the above embodiments, the electric window mechanisms 1A, 1B, 1C and 1D are given as examples of vehicle-mounted devices, or the embodiments of the present invention can also be applied to motor modules used to operate other vehicle-mounted devices.

[0123] Although the invention has been described with reference to a limited number of embodiments, those skilled in the art who benefit from this disclosure will understand that other embodiments can be devised without departing from the scope of the invention disclosed herein. Therefore, the scope of the invention should be limited only by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A motor module, the motor module comprising: An electric motor, which is the power source for an on-board device installed in a vehicle; A drive unit that drives the motor; A control unit that operates the drive unit and controls the drive of the motor to operate the vehicle-mounted device; A memory that stores information for the control unit to operate the on-board device; as well as A communication unit that communicates via a network built into the vehicle. The control unit performs the following: The parameter learning process receives, through the communication unit, parameter information specifically for motor control of the vehicle-mounted device used to operate the vehicle-mounted device from the management module that manages the motor module, and stores the parameter information in the memory; Normal processing, where the parameter information is stored in the memory, involves the drive unit driving the motor to operate the vehicle-mounted device based on the operation signal input from the outside for operating the vehicle-mounted device and the parameter information, so that the motor outputs a predetermined torque; Fine-tuning processing, which, in the absence of the parameter information stored in the memory, involves the drive unit driving the motor for a certain period of time based on the operation signal and then stopping the motor, to fine-tune the on-board device so that the motor outputs maximum torque; and The process of disabling remote operation signal is as follows: if the parameter information is not stored in the memory, when the communication unit receives a remote operation signal sent from the management module located far from the motor module, the remote operation signal is ignored, and the drive unit is prohibited from driving the motor.

2. The motor module according to claim 1, in, The memory pre-stores identification information indicating which vehicle-mounted device the motor module is used for, and The control unit is configured to: In the parameter learning process, when identifier information that matches the identifier information stored in the memory is appended to the parameter information received from the management module, the parameter information is stored in the memory. When the parameter information is stored in the memory, the normal processing is performed when the operation signal is an operation signal input from an operation module installed near the motor module without passing through the network, or a remote operation signal received via the network from the management module installed far from the motor module and accompanied by identification information consistent with the identification information stored in the memory. If the parameter information is not stored in the memory, the fine-tuning process is performed when the operation signal is input from the operation module.

3. The motor module according to claim 2, further comprising: A connection unit that connects to the operation module without traversing the network. The control unit also performs identification information learning processing, which determines the identification information of the motor module based on the voltage applied according to the connection state between the connection unit of the motor module and the connection unit provided in the operation module, and stores the identification information in the memory.

4. The motor module according to claim 2 or 3, in, The vehicle-mounted device includes an electric window mechanism disposed in a predetermined seat of the vehicle. The management module includes a first switch module located at a position away from the predetermined seat and for remotely operating the power window mechanism. The operation module includes a second switch module disposed in the predetermined seat and operating the electric window mechanism, and The control unit is configured to: In the normal process, based on the automatic or manual remote switch operation signal sent from the first switch module according to the operation state of the first switch module and received by the communication unit, or the automatic or manual switch operation signal input from the second switch module according to the operation state of the second switch module, and the parameter information stored in the memory, the drive unit drives the motor to automatically or manually open or close the window glass of the electric window mechanism, so that the motor outputs a predetermined torque; as well as If the parameter information is not stored in the memory. When a manual opening operation signal is input from the second switch module, the drive unit drives the motor based on the opening operation signal to manually open the window glass of the electric window mechanism, so that the motor outputs maximum torque, and When an automatic or manual closing operation signal is input from the second switch module, the drive unit drives the motor for a certain period of time based on the closing operation signal and then stops the motor to finely adjust the window glass of the electric window mechanism in the closing direction so that the motor outputs maximum torque.

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