Power System

Abstract

The power supply system (10) includes: a plurality of output circuits (46, 56) electrically connected to a plurality of second coils (48C, 58C) on the second side of a transformer unit (39); and a selection circuit (38) to which power is supplied from the plurality of output circuits (46, 56). Each of the plurality of output circuits (46, 56) is electrically connected to a plurality of second coils (48C, 58C) on the second side, and outputs DC power to the selection circuit (38) based on the AC power of the second coils (48C, 58C) on the second side. The selection circuit (38) selects a target for power supply from a first conductive path (21) and a second conductive path (22).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to power supply systems. Background Art

[0002] Electric vehicles such as plug-in hybrid vehicles and electric vehicles are equipped with a high-voltage battery as a power source for driving the electric motor used to drive the vehicle, and a low-voltage battery as a power source for driving auxiliary equipment such as wipers and headlights. It should be noted that in the following description, plug-in hybrid vehicles are also referred to as PHEVs (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles). Electric vehicles are also referred to as EVs (Electric Vehicles). The above-mentioned PHEVs and EVs are also equipped with an on-board charger for enabling power supply from commercial power sources or rapid charging stations. Patent document 1 discloses an example of such a power supply system installed on an electric vehicle. The power supply system disclosed in patent document 1 includes a plug-in charger 73 that receives power from an external power source EP, and can supply power to a main battery MB equivalent to a high-voltage battery via the plug-in charger 73. In addition, a DC / DC converter is provided separately from the plug-in charger 73 between the main battery MB and the auxiliary battery AB equivalent to the low-voltage battery.

[0003] Prior art literature

[0004] Patent Literature

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2014-212643 Summary of the Invention

[0006] Summary of the Invention

[0007] Problems to be solved by the invention

[0008] The power supply system disclosed in Patent Document 1 has only a single path for supplying power to the auxiliary load 30 corresponding to the low-voltage load, and does not ensure multiple power paths for the low-voltage load. Therefore, this power supply system has concerns about redundancy.

[0009] The present disclosure provides a structure of a power supply system capable of realizing a more compact structure and improving the redundancy of power supply to a load.

[0010] Solutions to Problems

[0011] A power supply system as one of the present disclosures is used for an in-vehicle system. The power supply system includes: a first conductive path as a path for supplying power to a first load; a second conductive path as a path for supplying power to a second load; and a power storage unit, wherein:

[0012] The power supply system comprises:

[0013] an inverter unit including one or more inverter circuits configured to convert direct current power based on power supplied from a power source different from the power storage unit into alternating current power for supply;

[0014] a transformer unit including one or more first coils and a plurality of second coils to which AC power is supplied from the inverter unit;

[0015] a converter circuit electrically connected to a first-side second coil among the plurality of second coils, and converting AC power of the first-side second coil into DC power and supplying the DC power to the power storage unit;

[0016] a plurality of output circuits electrically connected to a plurality of second coils on a second side different from the second coils on the first side among the plurality of second coils; and

[0017] a selection circuit, which is supplied with power from the plurality of output circuits,

[0018] Each of the plurality of output circuits is electrically connected to each of the plurality of second coils on the second side, and outputs DC power based on the AC power of the second coils on the second side.

[0019] The selection circuit selects a destination to which power is supplied from the first conductive path and the second conductive path.

[0020] Effects of the Invention

[0021] A power supply system as one aspect of the present disclosure can realize a more compact structure capable of improving redundancy in power supply to a load. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0022] Figure 1 This is a block diagram schematically illustrating an in-vehicle system including the power supply system according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] Figure 2 This is a schematic illustration of a Figure 1 Schematic diagram of the on-board system of a vehicle.

[0024] Figure 3 This is an example Figure 1 A circuit diagram showing the specific structure of the power supply unit in the power supply system.

[0025] Figure 4 It will Figure 1 An explanatory diagram conceptually showing an enlarged portion of an in-vehicle system.

[0026] Figure 5 This is an explanatory diagram conceptually showing an enlarged portion of an in-vehicle system equipped with a power supply system according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] Figure 6 This is a block diagram schematically illustrating an in-vehicle system including a power supply system according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0028] The following examples illustrate the embodiments of the present disclosure. It should be noted that the features of [1] to

[11] described below can be combined arbitrarily within the scope of non-contradiction.

[0029] [1] A power supply system for an in-vehicle system, the power supply system comprising: a first conductive path serving as a path for supplying electric power to a first load; a second conductive path serving as a path for supplying electric power to a second load; and a power storage unit, wherein the power supply system comprises: an inverter unit comprising one or more inverter circuits for converting direct current (DC) power based on power supplied from a power source different from the power storage unit into AC power for supply; a transformer unit comprising one or more first coils and a plurality of second coils supplied with AC power from the inverter unit; a converter circuit electrically connected to a first-side second coil of the plurality of second coils, for converting the AC power of the first-side second coil into DC power and supplying the DC power to the power storage unit; a plurality of output circuits electrically connected to a plurality of second coils on a second side different from the first-side second coil of the plurality of second coils; and a selection circuit supplied with electric power from the plurality of output circuits, each of the plurality of output circuits being electrically connected to a respective one of the plurality of second coils on the second side, for outputting DC power based on the AC power of the second coil on the second side, the selection circuit selecting a destination for power supply from the first conductive path and the second conductive path.

[0030] In the power supply system described in [1] above, power is supplied from multiple output circuits to the selection circuit, which is capable of selecting a power supply destination from the first and second conductive paths. Specifically, the power supply system can switch between independently maintaining power supply to the first load and independently maintaining power supply to the second load. This improves the redundancy of power supply to the loads. Furthermore, the power supply system can share some components used to charge the power storage unit and some components used to supply power to the first and second loads, thereby achieving a more compact structure that improves redundancy.

[0031] [2] The power supply system according to [1], wherein each of the plurality of output circuits is a rectifier circuit that rectifies the AC power supplied from the second coil on the second side.

[0032] In the power supply system [2], each of the plurality of output circuits is constituted by a rectifier circuit, and thus a more compact structure can be realized that can charge the storage unit and supply power to the first load and the second load while sharing some components.

[0033] [3] A power supply system according to [1] or [2], wherein the power supply system has a selection control unit that controls the selection action of the selection circuit, and when a first condition is met, the selection control unit controls the selection circuit to cut off the power supply to the second conductive path and allow the power supply to the first conductive path; when a second condition is met, the selection control unit controls the selection circuit to cut off the power supply to the first conductive path and allow the power supply to the second conductive path.

[0034] The power supply system of [3] is capable of selectively supplying power only to the first of the first and second conductive paths when a first condition is satisfied. Furthermore, the power supply system is capable of selectively supplying power only to the second of the first and second conductive paths when a second condition is satisfied.

[0035] [4] A power supply system according to [3], wherein the power supply system comprises: a first abnormality detection unit for detecting an abnormality on the first conductive path side; a second abnormality detection unit for detecting an abnormality on the second conductive path side, and when the second abnormality detection unit detects an abnormality on the second conductive path side, the selection control unit controls the selection circuit to cut off the power supply to the second conductive path and allow the power supply to the first conductive path; when the first abnormality detection unit detects an abnormality on the first conductive path side, the selection control unit controls the selection circuit to cut off the power supply to the first conductive path and allow the power supply to the second conductive path.

[0036] The power supply system of [4] above is capable of selectively supplying power only to the first of the first and second conductive paths when an abnormality occurs on the second conductive path. Thus, when an abnormality occurs on the second conductive path, the power supply system can suppress the effects of the abnormality from spreading to the first conductive path and maintain power supply to the first load. Furthermore, when an abnormality occurs on the first conductive path, the power supply system is capable of selectively supplying power only to the second of the first and second conductive paths. Thus, when an abnormality occurs on the first conductive path, the power supply system can suppress the effects of the abnormality from spreading to the second conductive path and maintain power supply to the second load.

[0037] [5] A power supply system according to any one of [1] to [4], wherein the inverter unit has a plurality of inverter circuits, the transformer unit has a plurality of transformers, the transformers have the first coil and the second coil on the second side, each of the inverter circuits is electrically connected to the first coil of each of the transformers to supply AC power to each of the first coils, and each of the second coils on the second side of the transformers is electrically connected to the output circuits to supply AC power to each of the output circuits.

[0038] In the power supply system of [5], if an abnormality occurs in any of the inverter circuit, transformer, output circuit, etc., the power supply to the first conductive path or the second conductive path can be maintained using the inverter circuit, transformer, or output circuit in the path where the abnormality does not occur. Thus, the power supply system can further improve the redundancy of the power supply to the first conductive path or the second conductive path.

[0039] [6] A power supply system according to [5], wherein the power supply system comprises a plurality of converter circuits, each of the plurality of transformers comprises a second coil on the first side, each second coil on the first side is electrically connected to each converter circuit, and supplies AC power to each converter circuit.

[0040] The power supply system of [6] above can maintain power supply to the power storage unit by utilizing the inverter circuit, transformer, or converter circuit in a path that does not experience the abnormality, even if an abnormality occurs in any of the inverter circuits, transformers, or converter circuits. This allows the power supply system to further enhance the redundancy of power supply to the power storage unit.

[0041] [7] The power supply system according to [6], wherein the power supply system is provided with a plurality of power supply circuits, the power supply circuits including the inverter circuit, the transformer, the converter circuit and the output circuit, and the power supply system further comprises: an abnormal circuit detection unit for detecting the power supply circuit that has become abnormal when any one of the plurality of power supply circuits becomes abnormal; and a stop control unit for stopping the operation of the power supply circuit that has become abnormal.

[0042] The power supply system of [7] above is provided with multiple power supply circuits, thereby ensuring multiple charging paths for the power storage unit and multiple power supply paths for the first load and the second load. Furthermore, if any power supply circuit enters an abnormal state, the power supply system can shut down that power supply circuit to provide protection. Furthermore, even if any power supply circuit is shut down, the power supply system can operate the other power supply circuits to charge the power storage unit and supply power to the first load or the second load.

[0043] [8] A power supply system according to any one of [1] to [7], wherein the power supply system comprises: a selection control unit for controlling the selection action of the selection circuit; and an output abnormality detection unit for detecting the output circuit having the output abnormality when any one of the plurality of output circuits has the output abnormality, wherein the selection control unit controls the selection circuit in the following manner: cutting off the power flow between the output circuit having the output abnormality and the first conductive path and the second conductive path, and allowing the power flow between the output circuit having no output abnormality and at least any one of the first conductive path and the second conductive path.

[0044] The power supply system of [8] above is capable of electrically isolating the output circuit experiencing the output abnormality from the first and second conductive paths, thereby protecting the circuit. Furthermore, the power supply system is capable of allowing power to flow between the output circuit experiencing the output abnormality and at least one of the first and second conductive paths, thereby maintaining power supply to at least one of the first and second conductive paths.

[0045] [9] A power supply system according to any one of [1] to [8], wherein the selection circuit configures a first relay between each of the output circuits and the first conductive path, and switches the circuit supplying power to the first conductive path by switching the on / off states of the plurality of first relays, and configures a second relay between each of the output circuits and the second conductive path, and switches the circuit supplying power to the second conductive path by switching the on / off states of the plurality of second relays.

[0046] In the power supply system of the above-mentioned [9], the structure for switching between the operation of independently maintaining the power supply to the first load and the operation of independently maintaining the power supply to the second load can be easily realized with the first relay and the second relay as the main parts.

[0047]

[10] The power supply system according to any one of [1] to [9], wherein the first conductive path is a conductive path electrically connected to a first storage battery, and the second conductive path is a conductive path electrically connected to a second storage battery.

[0048] The power supply system of

[10] described above can be preferably used in an in-vehicle system that supplies electric power to a first battery and a first load via a first conductive path, and can supply electric power to a second battery and a second load via a second conductive path.

[0049]

[11] A vehicle comprising a power supply system according to any one of [1] to

[10] .

[0050] In the vehicle described in

[11] above, a power supply system capable of improving redundancy in power supply to a load can be realized in a more compact form.

[0051] <First embodiment>

[0052] Figure 1 A power supply system 10 according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The power supply system 10 is configured as a power supply system for a vehicle.

[0053] (Power Supply System Structure)

[0054] like Figure 2 As shown, the power supply system 10 is used as a part of the vehicle-mounted system 2 mounted on the vehicle 1. The vehicle 1 is a vehicle equipped with the power supply system 10, such as a PHEV, an EV, etc. Figure 2 Thus, the vehicle-mounted system 2 includes a power supply system 10, a high-voltage load 4, a first load 5, a second load 6, etc. The vehicle 1 has a connection terminal (not shown) to which an external AC power supply 190 ( Figure 1 ). The power supply system 10 is as follows Figure 1 In this way, it is possible to switch between a state in which the external AC power source 190 is electrically connected and a state in which the external AC power source 190 is not connected.

[0055] like Figure 1 Thus, the power supply system 10 includes the first conductive path 21, the second conductive path 22, the power supply unit 30, the control unit 18, the high-voltage battery 11, the low-voltage battery 12, etc. The low-voltage battery 12 includes a first low-voltage battery 12A and a second low-voltage battery 12B.

[0056] Power supply system 10 is a system that, when an external AC power source 190 is connected to vehicle 1, can charge high-voltage battery 11, first low-voltage battery 12A, and second low-voltage battery 12B using AC power supplied from external AC power source 190. Furthermore, power supply system 10 can supply power to high-voltage load 4, first load 5, and second load 6 while the vehicle is traveling.

[0057] The high voltage load 4 is a load that can be operated by receiving power from the high voltage battery 11. The high voltage load 4 includes, for example, a drive unit 8 ( Figure 2 ) and a PCU (Power Control Unit) not shown. The PCU is a device that converts the output power of the high-voltage battery 11 into power for driving the drive unit 8 and supplies it to the drive unit 8. The PCU has, for example, an inverter that generates alternating current (for example, three-phase alternating current) from direct current and supplies it to the drive unit 8. The drive unit 8 is an electrical drive device such as a main engine type motor. The drive unit 8 is a device that provides a driving force for rotating the wheels of the vehicle 1 based on the power supplied from the high-voltage battery 11.

[0058] The first load 5 is a load that receives power from the first conductive path 21. The second load 6 is a load that receives power from the second conductive path 22. The first auxiliary load 5A is an example of the first load 5. The second auxiliary load 6A is an example of the second load 6. The first and second auxiliary loads 5A and 6A are, for example, auxiliary equipment required to operate the engine and electric motor. Examples of these auxiliary equipment include a unit motor, an alternator, and a radiator cooling fan. The first and second auxiliary loads 5A and 6A may also include an electric power steering system, an electric parking brake, lighting, a wiper drive unit, a navigation system, and the like. The second auxiliary load 6A is a load that can perform some or all of the functions of the first auxiliary load 5A when the functions of the first auxiliary load 5A are disabled. The first auxiliary load 5A is a load that can perform some or all of the functions of the second auxiliary load 6A when the functions of the second auxiliary load 6A are disabled.

[0059] The first autonomous driving load 5B is equivalent to an example of the first load 5. The second autonomous driving load 6B is equivalent to an example of the second load 6. The first autonomous driving load 5B and the second autonomous driving load 6B are loads required for autonomous driving. The first autonomous driving load 5B and the second autonomous driving load 6B include, for example, sensing systems such as millimeter-wave radars or stereo cameras, speed control systems, vehicle control systems, steering control systems, lane departure prevention assistance systems, etc. The second autonomous driving load 6B is a load that can perform part or all of the functions of the first autonomous driving load 5B when the functions of the first autonomous driving load 5B are stopped. The first autonomous driving load 5B is a load that can perform part or all of the functions of the second autonomous driving load 6B when the functions of the second autonomous driving load 6B are stopped. It should be noted that in Figure 1In the figure, a distinction is made between the first autonomous driving load 5B and the first auxiliary machine load 5A, but this distinction does not have to be made. For example, the first auxiliary machine load 5A may contain loads belonging to the first autonomous driving load 5B, and the first autonomous driving load 5B may contain loads belonging to the first auxiliary machine load 5A. Similarly, the distinction between the second autonomous driving load 6B and the second auxiliary machine load 6A does not have to be made. For example, the second auxiliary machine load 6A may contain loads belonging to the second autonomous driving load 6B, and the second autonomous driving load 6B may contain loads belonging to the second auxiliary machine load 6A.

[0060] In this specification, the term "vehicle driving" includes, but is not limited to, a state in which the vehicle is moving. This term also includes a state in which the vehicle is moving with the accelerator depressed. This term also includes a state in which the vehicle is stationary and not moving, while power is being supplied to any or all of the first load 5 and the second load 6. If the vehicle 1 is a PHEV, this term also includes a state in which the engine is idling.

[0061] The high-voltage battery 11 is equivalent to an example of a power storage unit. The high-voltage battery 11 is configured to be chargeable and dischargeable. The high-voltage battery 11 outputs a high voltage (for example, approximately 300V) for driving the drive unit 8. The output voltage of the high-voltage battery 11 when fully charged is higher than the output voltage of the first low-voltage battery 12A when fully charged, and is also higher than the output voltage of the second low-voltage battery 12B when fully charged. The high-voltage battery 11 can be composed of a lithium-ion battery or other types of batteries. The positive pole of the high-voltage battery 11 is electrically connected to the conductive path 14A, and the negative pole of the high-voltage battery 11 is electrically connected to the conductive path 14B.

[0062] The first conductive path 21 is a path for supplying power to the first load 5. The first conductive path 21 is electrically connected to the first auxiliary load 5A, the first autonomous driving load 5B, and the first low-voltage battery 12A. The first conductive path 21 includes a conductive path 21A electrically connected to the positive terminal of the first low-voltage battery 12A and a conductive path 21B electrically connected to the negative terminal of the first low-voltage battery 12A.

[0063] The first low-voltage battery 12A is an example of a first battery. The first low-voltage battery 12A is configured to be chargeable and dischargeable. The first low-voltage battery 12A applies an output voltage between the conductive paths 21A and 21B of the first conductive path 21, supplying power to the first auxiliary load 5A and the first autonomous driving load 5B. The first low-voltage battery 12A can be a lead-acid battery or another type of battery. When fully charged, the first low-voltage battery 12A applies a predetermined voltage (e.g., 12V) to the first conductive path 21.

[0064] The second conductive path 22 is a path for supplying power to the second load 6. The second conductive path 22 is electrically connected to the second auxiliary load 6A, the second autonomous driving load 6B, and the second low-voltage battery 12B. The second conductive path 22 includes a conductive path 22A electrically connected to the positive terminal of the second low-voltage battery 12B and a conductive path 22B electrically connected to the negative terminal of the second low-voltage battery 12B.

[0065] The second low-voltage battery 12B is an example of a second battery. The second low-voltage battery 12B is configured to be chargeable and dischargeable. The second low-voltage battery 12B applies an output voltage between the conductive paths 22A and 22B of the second conductive path 22, supplying power to the second auxiliary load 6A and the second autonomous driving load 6B. The second low-voltage battery 12B can be composed of a lead-acid battery or other types of batteries. When fully charged, the second low-voltage battery 12B applies a predetermined voltage (e.g., 12V) to the second conductive path 22.

[0066] The control unit 18 is a device that performs various controls on the devices in the vehicle-mounted system 2 . The control unit 18 may be composed of a plurality of electronic control devices or a single electronic control device. The control unit 18 is a device that can control the power supply unit 30 .

[0067] If the vehicle equipped with the power supply system 10 is an EV, Figure 1 、 Figure 2 If the vehicle equipped with the power supply system 10 is a PHEV, the vehicle has an engine in addition to the drive unit 8. Therefore, if the vehicle is a PHEV, the engine and the drive unit 8 work together to enable the PHEV to travel.

[0068] The power supply unit 30 primarily includes a PFC (Power Factor Correction) converter 32, power supply circuits 34 and 36, a selection circuit 38, and noise filters 91, 92, 94, and 96. Noise filters 91, 92, 94, and 96 remove noise from the path. It should be noted that three or more power supply circuits with the same structure may be provided as power supply circuits 34 and 36. The following description uses a configuration with two power supply circuits 34 and 36 as a representative example.

[0069] The power supply unit 30 serves as an on-vehicle charging device. It functions as an on-board charger (OBC). When an external AC power source 190 (e.g., a commercial power source) located outside the vehicle 1 is connected to the vehicle 1, the power supply unit 30 can charge the high-voltage battery 11, which serves as the main power source, using the power supplied from the external AC power source 190. When the external AC power source 190 is connected to the vehicle 1, the power supply unit 30 can also charge the low-voltage battery 12 using the power supplied from the external AC power source 190. Figure 3 A specific circuit of the power supply unit 30 is illustrated.

[0070] PFC converter 32 functions as a power factor correction circuit, forming an AC / DC converter that converts AC power into DC power. The PFC converter includes inductors 32A and 32B, and switching elements 32C, 32D, 32E, and 32F that form a full-bridge circuit. The two input ends of the full-bridge circuit formed by switching elements 32C, 32D, 32E, and 32F are electrically connected to inductors 32A and 32B, respectively. The two output ends of this full-bridge circuit are electrically connected to capacitor 32H. During external charging, PFC converter 32 generates a DC voltage from the AC voltage input from external AC power source 190 to terminals 32M and 32N, and applies the DC voltage to capacitor 32H. In response to the DC voltage being applied to capacitor 32H, PFC converter 32 also applies a DC voltage to terminals 42M and 42N of inverter circuit 42 and a pair of input terminals (not shown) of inverter circuit 52.

[0071] The inverter unit 37 includes a plurality of inverter circuits 42 and 52 that convert DC power supplied from a power source different from the high-voltage battery 11 (eg, the external AC power source 190 ) into AC power and supply the converted power.

[0072] Inverter circuits 42 and 52 function as DC / AC inverters, functioning as power conversion circuits that convert the DC power input from the PFC converter 32 into AC power for output. Inverter circuit 42 includes switching elements 42C, 42D, 42E, and 42F that form a full-bridge circuit. One of the two output terminals of the full-bridge circuit formed by switching elements 42C, 42D, 42E, and 42F is electrically connected to one end of first end portion 48M (the ends of coil 48A) of first transformer 48. The other of these two output terminals is electrically connected to the other end of first end portion 48M. Inverter circuit 42 converts the DC voltage input from the PFC converter 32 into AC voltage and outputs this AC voltage to first end portion 48M of transformer 48.

[0073] The inverter circuit 52 has the same configuration as the inverter circuit 42 . The inverter circuit 52 converts a DC voltage input from the PFC converter 32 to a pair of input terminals of the inverter circuit 52 into an AC voltage, and outputs the AC voltage to a first end 58M of a transformer 58 .

[0074] The transformer unit 39 includes a plurality of transformers 48 and 58. The transformer unit 39 includes a plurality of first coils 48A and 58A, and a plurality of second coils 48B, 48C, 58B, and 58C, which are supplied with AC power from the inverter unit 37. The plurality of first coils 48A and 58A can function as primary-side coils. When the plurality of first coils 48A and 58A function as primary-side coils, the plurality of second coils 48B, 48C, 58B, and 58C can function as secondary-side coils.

[0075] Transformer 48 includes a first coil 48A and a plurality of second coils 48B and 48C. Inverter circuit 42 is electrically connected to first coil 48A of transformer 48 and supplies AC power to first coil 48A. Second coil 48B of transformer 48 corresponds to an example of a second coil on the first side. Second coil 48B is electrically connected to converter circuit 44 and supplies AC power to converter circuit 44. Second coil 48C of transformer 48 corresponds to an example of a second coil on the second side. Second coil 48C is electrically connected to output circuit 46 and supplies AC power to output circuit 46.

[0076] The transformer 58 includes a first coil 58A and a plurality of second coils 58B and 58C. The inverter circuit 52 is electrically connected to the first coil 58A of the transformer 58 and supplies AC power to the first coil 58A. The second coil 58B of the transformer 58 corresponds to an example of a second coil on the first side. The second coil 58B is electrically connected to the converter circuit 54 and supplies AC power to the converter circuit 54. The second coil 58C of the transformer 58 corresponds to an example of a second coil on the second side. The second coil 58C is electrically connected to the output circuit 56 and supplies AC power to the output circuit 56.

[0077] The converter circuits 44 and 54 function as bidirectional AC / DC converters and have the function of converting AC power and DC power in both directions. When the converter circuit 44 supplies AC power to the second coil 48B, it can perform a first action by converting the AC power supplied to the second coil 48B into DC power and supplying it to the high-voltage battery 11 (storage unit) side. The converter circuit 44 performs the above-mentioned first action by converting the output voltage (AC voltage) applied to the second end 48N of the transformer 48 (both ends of the coil 48B) into a DC voltage and applying the DC voltage to the terminals 44M and 44N. Terminal 44M is a conductive path that can be electrically connected to the positive pole of the high-voltage battery 11, and terminal 44N is a conductive path that can be electrically connected to the negative pole of the high-voltage battery 11. It should be noted that relays and fuses not shown in the figure may also be interposed between the terminals 44M and 44N and the high-voltage battery 11. The converter circuit 44 performs the above-mentioned first action by converting the output voltage (AC voltage) applied to the second end 48N of the transformer 48 (both ends of the coil 48B) into a DC voltage and applying the DC voltage to the terminals 44M and 44N. Figure 1 ) When DC power is supplied to terminals 44M and 44N, the second operation can be performed by converting the DC power into AC power and supplying it to the second coil 48B of transformer 48. Converter circuit 44 performs the above-mentioned second operation by converting the DC voltage applied to terminals 44M and 44N into AC voltage and applying the AC voltage between the two ends of second end 48N. Converter circuit 44 includes switching elements 42C, 42D, 42E, 42F and capacitor 44H that constitute a full-bridge circuit. One of the pair of terminals of the full-bridge circuit composed of switching elements 42C, 42D, 42E, and 42F is electrically connected to one end of second end 48N (one end of second coil 48B). The other of the pair of terminals is electrically connected to the other end of second end 48N (the other end of second coil 48B).

[0078] The converter circuit 54 has the same structure as the converter circuit 44. The converter circuit 54 is electrically connected to the second coil 58B. The second coil 58B is an example of the second coil on the first side. The converter circuit 54 functions as a bidirectional AC / DC converter, having the function of bidirectionally converting AC power into DC power. When the first coil 58A functions as the primary coil and supplies AC power to the second coil 58B, the converter circuit 54 can perform a first operation by converting the AC power supplied to the second coil 58B into DC power and supplying it to the high-voltage battery 11 (storage unit). The converter circuit 54 performs this first operation by converting the output voltage (AC voltage) applied to the second end 58N of the transformer 58 into a DC voltage and applying it between the conductive paths 60A and 60B. The conductive path 60A is a conductive path that can be electrically connected to the conductive path 14A. The conductive path 60B is a conductive path that can be electrically connected to the conductive path 14B. When DC power is supplied from the high-voltage battery 11, the converter circuit 54 can perform a second operation by converting the DC power into AC power and supplying it to the second coil 58B of the transformer 58. The converter circuit 54 performs the second operation by converting a DC voltage applied between the conductive paths 60A and 60B based on the power supply from the high-voltage battery 11 into an AC voltage and applying the AC voltage to both ends of the second end portion 58N (both ends of the second coil 58B).

[0079] Output circuits 46 and 56 function as rectifier circuits. Output circuit 46 is electrically connected to a second coil 48C (a second coil on the second side) that is different from second coil 48B (a second coil on the first side) among the plurality of second coils 48B and 48C. The plurality of output circuits 46 and 56 are electrically connected to each of the second coils 48C and 58C (a plurality of second coils on the second side), and output DC power based on the AC power of the second coils 48C and 58C.

[0080] The output circuit 46 is electrically connected to the second coil 48C and operates to output DC power based on the AC power of the second coil 48C. Specifically, the output circuit 46 rectifies and smoothes the AC voltage input from the second coil 48C and applies a DC voltage between the terminals 46M and 46N. Figure 3In the example shown, output circuit 46 is configured as a center-tapped full-wave rectifier circuit including diodes 46A and 46B, an inductor 46C, and a capacitor 46D. Second coil 48C, connected to the input side of output circuit 46, is a center-tapped coil. Output circuit 46 has a pair of output terminals 46M and 46N, one of which can be electrically connected to conductive path 38X of selection circuit 38. Output terminal 46N, on the other hand, can be electrically connected to conductive path 38Z of selection circuit 38. The output voltage from output circuit 46 is applied between conductive paths 38X and 38Z of selection circuit 38.

[0081] The output circuit 56 is constructed similarly to the output circuit 46. It is electrically connected to a second coil 58C (a second coil on the second side) that is different from the second coil 58B (the second coil on the first side) among the plurality of second coils 58B and 58C. The output circuit 56 is electrically connected to the second coil 58C and operates to output DC power based on the AC power of the second coil 58C. Specifically, the output circuit 56 rectifies and smoothes the AC voltage input from the second coil 58C and applies a DC voltage between conductive paths 61A and 61B. The higher-potential terminal of the pair of output terminals of the output circuit 56 can be electrically connected to the conductive path 38Y of the selection circuit 38 via conductive path 61A. The lower-potential terminal of the pair of output terminals of the output circuit 46 can be electrically connected to the conductive path 38Z of the selection circuit 38 via conductive path 61B. The output voltage from the output circuit 56 is applied between the conductive paths 38Y and 38Z of the selection circuit 38.

[0082] like Figure 4 Thus, selection circuit 38 is a circuit that receives power from multiple output circuits 46 and 56. Selection circuit 38 selects the power supply destination from first conductive path 21 and second conductive path 22. Selection circuit 38 includes conductive paths 38X, 38Y, and 38Z as input paths. Selection circuit 38 also includes relays 38A, 38B, and 38C.

[0083] Relay 38A is interposed between conductive path 38X and conductive path 21A, switching conductive path 38X and conductive path 21A between a conductive state and a disconnected state. When relay 38A is in the on state, current can flow between conductive path 38X and conductive path 21A. When relay 38A is in the off state, current does not flow between conductive path 38X and conductive path 21A.

[0084] Relay 38C is interposed between conductive path 38Y and conductive path 22A, switching conductive path 38Y and conductive path 22A between a conductive state and a disconnected state. When relay 38C is in the on state, current can flow between conductive path 38Y and conductive path 22A. When relay 38C is in the off state, current does not flow between conductive path 38Y and conductive path 22A.

[0085] Relay 38B is interposed between conductive path 21A and conductive path 22A, switching conductive path 21A and conductive path 22A between an on and off state. When relay 38B is on, current can flow between conductive path 21A and conductive path 22A. When relay 38B is off, current does not flow between conductive path 21A and conductive path 22A. When relay 38A is on and relay 38B is on, current can flow from conductive path 38X to conductive path 22A. When relay 38C is on and relay 38B is on, current can flow from conductive path 38Y to conductive path 21A.

[0086] Relays 38A, 38B, and 38C are examples of first relays disposed between output circuits 46 and 56, respectively, and first conductive path 21. Selector circuit 38 switches the circuit that supplies power to first conductive path 21 by switching relays 38A, 38B, and 38C (a plurality of first relays) between on and off. Specifically, selector circuit 38 switches output circuit 46 to "supply power to first conductive path 21" when relay 38A is on, and switches output circuit 46 to "not supply power to first conductive path 21" when relay 38A is off. Furthermore, selector circuit 38 switches output circuit 56 to "supply power to first conductive path 21" when relays 38B and 38C are on, and switches output circuit 56 to "not supply power to first conductive path 21" when either relay 38B or 38C is off. Relays 38A, 38B, and 38C are examples of second relays disposed between output circuits 46 and 56, respectively, and second conductive path 22. Selector circuit 38 switches the circuit that supplies power to second conductive path 22 by switching relays 38A, 38B, and 38C (a plurality of second relays) between on and off. Specifically, selector circuit 38 switches output circuit 56 to "supply power to second conductive path 22" when relay 38C is on, and switches output circuit 56 to "not supply power to second conductive path 22" when relay 38C is off. Furthermore, selector circuit 38 switches output circuit 46 to "supply power to second conductive path 22" when relays 38A and 38B are on, and switches output circuit 46 to "not supply power to second conductive path 22" when either relay 38A or 38B is off.

[0087] Figure 1The control unit 18 shown in the figure is an example of a first abnormality detection unit that detects abnormalities on the first conductive path 21 side. Furthermore, the control unit 18 is an example of a second abnormality detection unit that detects abnormalities on the second conductive path 22 side. The control unit 18 may employ a method that determines an abnormality on the first conductive path 21 side when the current flowing through the first conductive path 21 reaches an overcurrent state exceeding a first threshold value while the vehicle is traveling. Alternatively, the control unit 18 may employ a method that determines an abnormality on the first conductive path 21 side when the current flowing through the first conductive path 21 reaches a low current state below a second threshold value while the vehicle is traveling. Alternatively, the control unit 18 may employ a method that determines an abnormality on the first conductive path 21 side when the voltage across the first conductive path 21 reaches a low voltage state below a threshold voltage while the vehicle is traveling. In this case, the threshold voltage is a value greater than 0V and lower than the fully charged output voltage of the first low-voltage battery 12A, and lower than the fully charged output voltage of the second low-voltage battery 12B.

[0088] The control unit 18 may also employ a method for determining that an abnormality exists on the second conductive path 22 side when the current flowing through the second conductive path 22 reaches an overcurrent state exceeding a second threshold value while the vehicle is traveling. Alternatively, the control unit 18 may employ a method for determining that an abnormality exists on the second conductive path 22 side when the current flowing through the second conductive path 22 reaches a low current state below the second threshold value while the vehicle is traveling. The control unit 18 may also employ a method for determining that an abnormality exists on the second conductive path 22 side when the voltage across the second conductive path 22 reaches a low voltage state below a threshold voltage while the vehicle is traveling. In this case, the threshold voltage is a value greater than 0 V and lower than the fully charged output voltage of the second low-voltage battery 12B, and is a value lower than the fully charged output voltage of the second low-voltage battery 12B.

[0089] Figure 1The control unit 18 shown functions as an abnormal circuit detection unit and an output abnormality detection unit, capable of detecting abnormalities in each of the multiple power supply circuits 34 and 36 (e.g., abnormal outputs in each of the multiple output circuits 46 and 56). The control unit 18 may employ a method for determining that the power supply circuit 34 is abnormal when an overcurrent condition, where a current exceeding a threshold current is generated at a predetermined portion of the power supply circuit 34. Alternatively, the control unit 18 may employ a method for determining that the power supply circuit 34 is abnormal when an overvoltage condition, where a voltage exceeding a first threshold voltage is generated at a predetermined portion of the power supply circuit 34. Alternatively, the control unit 18 may employ a method for determining that the power supply circuit 34 is abnormal when an undervoltage condition, where a voltage below a second threshold voltage is generated at a predetermined portion of the power supply circuit 34. Alternatively, the control unit 18 may employ a method for determining that the power supply circuit 34 is abnormal when any of the power, voltage, or current output from the output circuit 46 is below a predetermined value while the power supply circuit 34 is operating and the relay 38A is in the on state. Similarly, the control unit 18 may also adopt a determination method that determines that the power supply circuit 36 is abnormal when an overcurrent state in which a current greater than a threshold current is generated at a predetermined portion of the power supply circuit 36. Alternatively, the control unit 18 may also adopt a determination method that determines that the power supply circuit 36 is abnormal when an overvoltage state in which a voltage greater than a first threshold voltage is generated at a predetermined portion of the power supply circuit 36. Alternatively, the control unit 18 may also adopt a determination method that determines that the power supply circuit 36 is abnormal when an undervoltage state in which a voltage less than a second threshold voltage is generated at a predetermined portion of the power supply circuit 36. Alternatively, the control unit 18 may also adopt a determination method that determines that the power supply circuit 36 is abnormal when any one of the power, voltage, and current output from the output circuit 56 is less than a predetermined value when the power supply circuit 36 is in operation with the relay 38C in the on state. (For example, determining that the output of the output circuit 56 is abnormal)

[0090] (External charging operation)

[0091] The following description is about the operation of the power supply system 10 when external charging is required. When external charging is required, the power supply system 10 can be electrically connected to the external AC power supply 190 as a power source outside the vehicle via a cable (not shown). Figure 2 ) When the external AC power source 190 is connected and electrically connected to the power supply system 10, power is supplied from the first low-voltage battery 12A and the second low-voltage battery 12B to the control unit 18. Detection of the electrical connection between the external AC power source 190 and the power supply system 10 and control of the power supply to the control unit 18 are performed by a control device (not shown) that is separate from the control unit 18.

[0092] When power begins to be supplied from the first low-voltage battery 12A and the second low-voltage battery 12B to the control unit 18 upon connection of the external AC power supply 190, the control unit 18 activates the power supply unit 30. Specifically, the control unit 18 activates the PFC converter 32 and the power supply circuits 34 and 36 to convert the AC voltage from the external AC power supply 190 into a high-voltage DC voltage and supply it to the high-voltage battery 11. When the power supply unit 30 is activated in this manner, the high-voltage battery 11 is charged. It should be noted that by appropriately setting the voltage ratio between the first end 48M and the second end 48N of the transformer 48, and the voltage ratio between the first end 58M and the second end 58N of the transformer 58, the power supply unit 30 can supply an appropriate charging voltage to the high-voltage battery 11.

[0093] On the other hand, when the control unit 18 activates the power supply unit 30 as described above during external charging, it pre-connects all relays 38A, 38B, and 38C. Consequently, the AC voltage from the external AC power supply 190 is converted into a low-voltage DC voltage and output from the output circuits 46 and 56, respectively. The DC voltage output from the output circuits 46 and 56 is supplied to the first low-voltage battery 12A and the second low-voltage battery 12B. Consequently, the first low-voltage battery 12A and the second low-voltage battery 12B are charged. By appropriately setting the voltage ratio between the first coil 48A and the second coil 48C in the transformer 48, and the voltage ratio between the first coil 58A and the second coil 58C in the transformer 58, appropriate charging voltages can be supplied to the first low-voltage battery 12A and the second low-voltage battery 12B.

[0094] (Normal operation of the vehicle)

[0095] The following description is about the operation of the power supply system 10 when the vehicle is running and in a normal state. The normal state when the vehicle is running here refers to a state in which neither the first abnormality detection unit nor the second abnormality detection unit detects any abnormality in the first conductive path 21 or the second conductive path 22, and the abnormal circuit detection unit also detects no abnormality in the power supply circuits 34 and 36. Figure 2 In the illustrated vehicle 1, when the ignition key or wireless key is operated, and vehicle 1 enters the start state in response to the key operation, power begins to be supplied from the first low-voltage battery 12A and the second low-voltage battery 12B to the control unit 18. Detection of the operation of the ignition key or wireless key and the start of power supply to the control unit 18 are performed by a control device (not shown) separate from the control unit 18.

[0096] When the vehicle is running, the control unit 18 operates the above-mentioned PCU (not shown). At this time, the high-voltage DC power supplied from the high-voltage battery 11 is supplied to the above-mentioned PCU, which converts the high-voltage DC power into AC power and supplies it to the drive unit 8 ( Figure 2 ) is supplied. By supplying AC power from the PCU to the drive unit 8 in this manner, the drive unit 8 starts to operate. Furthermore, the control unit 18 controls the operation of the drive unit 8 by controlling the PCU.

[0097] On the other hand, when power begins to be supplied from the first and second low-voltage batteries 12A and 12B to the control unit 18 in response to the aforementioned key operation, the control unit 18 turns on all relays 38A, 38B, and 38C of the selection circuit 38. Furthermore, while the vehicle is traveling, the power supply unit 30 operates, whereby the high-voltage DC power supplied from the high-voltage battery 11 to the converter circuit 44 is converted into low-voltage DC power by the converter circuit 44, transformer 48, and output circuit 46, and then output from the output circuit 46. Specifically, the converter circuit 44 performs the aforementioned second operation by converting the DC voltage applied to terminals 44M and 44N into an AC voltage and applying this AC voltage between the ends of the second coil 48B (between the ends of the second end 48N). In response to the application of the AC voltage between the ends of the second coil 48B, the AC voltage is supplied between the ends of the second coil 48C. Furthermore, when an AC voltage is supplied to second coil 48C, output circuit 46 rectifies and smoothes the AC voltage input from second coil 48C, applying a DC voltage between terminals 46M and 46N. Similarly, high-voltage DC power supplied from high-voltage battery 11 to converter circuit 54 is converted to low-voltage DC power by converter circuit 54, transformer 58, and output circuit 56, and then output from output circuit 56. Furthermore, the output circuit applies a DC voltage between conductive paths 61A and 61B.

[0098] The control unit 18 may also operate both converter circuits 44 and 54 constantly to output DC power from both output circuits 46 and 56 when the operating condition is met while the vehicle is traveling and in a normal state, and may stop the output of power from both output circuits 46 and 56 when the stop condition is met. Alternatively, the control unit 18 may operate only one of the converter circuits 44 and 54 when a first operating condition is met, and operate both converter circuits 44 and 54 when a second operating condition is met while the vehicle is traveling and in a normal state. In this case, the control unit 18 may stop the output of power from all output circuits 46 and 56 when the stop condition is met.

[0099] (Operation in the event of an abnormality while the vehicle is driving)

[0100] As described above, while the vehicle is running and in a normal state, the control unit 18 activates the power supply unit 30, enabling the output of a DC voltage from the output circuits 46 and 56 to the first and second conductive paths 21 and 22 based on the power from the high-voltage battery 11. Meanwhile, while the vehicle is running, the control unit 18 monitors the first and second conductive paths 21 and 22 for abnormalities using any of the aforementioned determination methods. Furthermore, while the vehicle is running, the control unit 18 monitors the power supply circuits 34 and 36 for abnormalities using any of the aforementioned determination methods.

[0101] If the control unit 18 determines that an abnormality exists on the first conductive path 21 side using any of the above-described determination methods while the vehicle is traveling, it turns off relays 38A and 38B and turns on relay 38C. This action disconnects the power flow between the output circuits 46 and 56 and the first conductive path 21, and also disconnects the power flow between the second conductive path 22 and the first conductive path 21. As a result, the first conductive path 21 is electrically disconnected, allowing power from the output circuit 56 to be selectively supplied to the second conductive path 22.

[0102] If the control unit 18 determines, using any of the aforementioned determination methods, that an abnormality exists on the second conductive path 22 while the vehicle is traveling, it turns off relays 38B and 38C and turns on relay 38A. This action disconnects the power flow between the output circuits 46 and 56 and the second conductive path 22, and also disconnects the power flow between the first conductive path 21 and the second conductive path 22. Consequently, the second conductive path 22 is electrically disconnected, allowing power from the output circuit 46 to be selectively supplied to the first conductive path 21.

[0103] If the control unit 18 determines that the power supply circuit 34 is abnormal using any of the above-described determination methods while the vehicle is traveling, it turns off relays 38A and 38B and turns on relay 38C. This action cuts off the power flow between the output circuit 46 and the first and second conductive paths 21 and 22, and also cuts off the power flow between the second conductive path 22 and the first conductive path 21. As a result, power from the output circuit 56 can be selectively supplied to the second conductive path 22.

[0104] If the control unit 18 determines that the power supply circuit 34 is abnormal, it can also keep relay 38A in the off state at all times or under specified conditions, and keep relays 38B and 38C in the on state. This operation cuts off the power supply between the output circuit 46 and the first and second conductive paths 21 and 22, and the power from the output circuit 56 can be supplied to both the first and second conductive paths 21 and 22.

[0105] If the control unit 18 determines that the power supply circuit 34 is abnormal, the control unit 18 may control relay 38A to be in the OFF state and relays 38B and 38C to be in the ON state when the first supply condition is met. Furthermore, if the control unit 18 determines that the power supply circuit 34 is abnormal, the control unit 18 may control relays 38A and 38B to be in the OFF state and relay 38C to be in the ON state when the second supply condition is met.

[0106] If the control unit 18 determines that the power supply circuit 36 is abnormal using any of the above-described determination methods while the vehicle is traveling, it turns off relays 38B and 38C and turns on relay 38A. This action cuts off the power flow between the output circuit 56 and the first and second conductive paths 21 and 22, and also cuts off the power flow between the first and second conductive paths 21 and 22. As a result, power from the output circuit 46 can be selectively supplied to the first conductive path 21.

[0107] If the control unit 18 determines that the power supply circuit 36 is abnormal, it can also keep relay 38C in the off state at all times or under specified conditions, and keep relays 38A and 38B in the on state. This operation cuts off the power supply between the output circuit 56 and the first and second conductive paths 21 and 22, and allows power from the output circuit 46 to be supplied to both the first and second conductive paths 21 and 22.

[0108] If the control unit 18 determines that the power supply circuit 36 is abnormal, the control unit 18 may control relays 38B and 38C to be in the OFF state and relay 38A to be in the ON state when the third supply condition is met. Furthermore, if the control unit 18 determines that the power supply circuit 36 is abnormal, the control unit 18 may control relay 38C to be in the OFF state and relays 38A and 38B to be in the ON state when the fourth supply condition is met.

[0109] In this example, the control unit 18 serves as an example of a selection control unit, controlling the selection operation of the selection circuit 38. When a first condition is satisfied, the control unit 18 controls the selection circuit 38 to cut off the power supply to the second conductive path 22 and allow the power supply to the first conductive path 21. Furthermore, when a second condition is satisfied, the control unit 18 controls the selection circuit 38 to cut off the power supply to the first conductive path 21 and allow the power supply to the second conductive path 22. Specifically, when the second abnormality detection unit detects an abnormality on the side of the second conductive path 22, the control unit 18 (selection control unit) controls the selection circuit 38 to cut off the power supply to the second conductive path 22 and allow the power supply to the first conductive path 21. Furthermore, when the first abnormality detection unit detects an abnormality on the side of the first conductive path 21, the control unit 18 controls the selection circuit 38 to cut off the power supply to the first conductive path 21 and allow the power supply to the second conductive path 22.

[0110] Furthermore, if the control unit 18 determines that either of the power supply circuits 34 and 36 is abnormal using any of the above-described determination methods, the control unit 18 controls the selection circuit 38 to cut off the electrical connection between the power supply circuit determined to be abnormal and the first and second conductive paths 21 and 22. Furthermore, the control unit 18 controls the selection circuit 38 to allow electrical connection between the power supply circuit determined to be abnormal and at least one of the first and second conductive paths 21 and 22. For example, if the control unit 18 determines that either of the output circuits 46 and 56 has an output abnormality, the control unit 18 controls the selection circuit 38 to cut off the electrical connection between the output circuit with the output abnormality and the first and second conductive paths 21 and 22. Furthermore, the control unit 18 controls the selection circuit 38 to allow electrical connection between the output circuit without the output abnormality and at least one of the first and second conductive paths 21 and 22.

[0111] Furthermore, the control unit 18 functions as an example of a stop control unit. If any of the above-described determination methods determine that any of the multiple power supply circuits 34 and 36 is abnormal (i.e., if any of the multiple power supply circuits 34 and 36 is in an abnormal state), the control unit 18 stops the operation of the abnormal power supply circuit. For example, if the control unit 18 determines that any of the multiple output circuits 46 and 56 has an output abnormality, the control unit 18 stops the operation of the power supply circuit including the output circuit in which the output abnormality has occurred.

[0112] Alternatively, a fuse or relay may be provided between terminals 46M and 46N of output circuit 46 and selection circuit 38, and when an overcurrent occurs between output circuit 46 and selection circuit 38, the fuse or relay may be disconnected to provide protection. Similarly, a fuse or relay may be provided between output circuit 56 and selection circuit 38, and when an overcurrent occurs between output circuit 56 and selection circuit 38, the fuse or relay may be disconnected to provide protection.

[0113] The following description relates to illustrations of the effects of the present disclosure.

[0114] In the power supply system 10 described above, the selection circuit 38 can select the destination of the power output from the multiple output circuits (rectifier circuits) 46 and 56 from the first conductive path 21 and the second conductive path 22. In other words, the power supply system 10 can switch between independently maintaining the power supply to the first load 5 and independently maintaining the power supply to the second load 6. This allows the power supply system 10 to improve the redundancy of the power supply to the loads. Furthermore, the power supply system 10 can share some components used to charge the high-voltage battery 11 (power storage unit) and some components used to supply power to the first load 5 and the second load 6, thereby achieving a more compact structure that improves redundancy.

[0115] Since the power supply system 10 includes the plurality of output circuits 46 and 56 as rectifier circuits, it is possible to realize a more compact structure capable of charging the high-voltage battery 11 (power storage unit) and supplying power to the first load 5 and the second load 6 while sharing some components.

[0116] When the first condition is satisfied, the power supply system 10 can selectively supply power only to the first conductive path 21 of the first conductive path 21 and the second conductive path 22. Furthermore, when the second condition is satisfied, the power supply system 10 can selectively supply power only to the second conductive path 22 of the first conductive path 21 and the second conductive path 22. In other words, the power supply system 10 can be controlled so that the destination of power output from the selection circuit 38 is switched according to the conditions.

[0117] When an abnormality occurs on the second conductive path 22 side, the power supply system 10 can selectively supply power only to the first conductive path 21 of the first and second conductive paths 21, 22. Thus, when an abnormality occurs on the second conductive path 22 side, the power supply system 10 can suppress the effects of the abnormality from spreading to the first conductive path 21 side, and maintain power supply to the first load 5. Furthermore, when an abnormality occurs on the first conductive path 21 side, the power supply system 10 can selectively supply power only to the second conductive path 22 of the first and second conductive paths 21, 22. Thus, when an abnormality occurs on the first conductive path 21 side, the power supply system 10 can suppress the effects of the abnormality from spreading to the second conductive path 22 side, and maintain power supply to the second load 6.

[0118] If an abnormality occurs in any of the inverter circuits, transformers, output circuits, etc., power supply system 10 can maintain power supply to the first or second conductive path using the inverter circuits, transformers, or output circuits in the unaffected paths. This further enhances the redundancy of power supply to the first or second conductive paths.

[0119] If an abnormality occurs in the inverter circuit, transformer, converter circuit, etc. of any of the multiple power supply circuits 34 and 36, the power supply system 10 can maintain the power supply to the high-voltage battery 11 using the circuit in the path where the abnormality has not occurred. This allows the power supply system 10 to further improve the redundancy of the power supply to the high-voltage battery 11.

[0120] If either power supply circuit 34 or 36 enters an abnormal state, the power supply system 10 can protect the system by shutting down that power supply circuit. Furthermore, even if the power supply system 10 shuts down one power supply circuit, the other power supply circuit can be operated to charge the high-voltage battery 11 and supply power to the first load 5 or the second load 6.

[0121] If an output abnormality occurs in any of the multiple output circuits 46 and 56, the power supply system 10 can electrically disconnect the output circuit experiencing the output abnormality from the first conductive path 21 and the second conductive path 22 to achieve protection. On the other hand, the power supply system 10 can allow current to flow between the output circuit that has not experienced the output abnormality and at least one of the first conductive path 21 and the second conductive path 22, thereby maintaining power supply to at least one of the conductive paths.

[0122] In the power supply system 10 , the configuration for switching between the operation of independently maintaining power supply to the first load 5 and the operation of independently maintaining power supply to the second load 6 can be easily implemented using the first relay and the second relay as main components.

[0123] <Second embodiment>

[0124] The following description relates to a power supply system 210 according to the second embodiment. The power supply system 210 has a power supply circuit 236 that is similar to the power supply circuit 36 and a selection circuit 238 that is replaced by the selection circuit 38. These are structural differences from the power supply system 10. Figure 1 The power supply system 10 is similarly configured. Figure 5 The in-vehicle system 202 is obtained by replacing the power supply system 10 with a power supply system 210 in the in-vehicle system 2 .

[0125] The power supply circuit 236 has the same structure as the power supply circuit 36 and functions in the same manner as the power supply circuit 36. In the power supply circuit 236, an inverter circuit similar to the inverter circuit 52 electrically connects a pair of input terminals to Figure 3 2. In power supply circuit 236, a converter circuit similar to converter circuit 54 electrically connects a pair of output terminals to conductive paths 14A and 14B. In power supply circuit 236, output circuit 256 has the same structure as output circuit 56, with a pair of output terminals electrically connected to conductive paths 238W and 238Z of selection circuit 238. Alternatively, a fuse or relay may be provided between output circuit 256 and selection circuit 238 to provide protection by disconnecting the fuse or relay when an overcurrent occurs between output circuit 256 and selection circuit 238.

[0126] The selection circuit 238 receives power from the plurality of output circuits 46, 56, and 256 and selects a destination for power supply from the first and second conductive paths 21 and 22. The selection circuit 238 includes relays 238A, 238B, 238C, 238D, 238E, and 238F. The selection circuit 238 includes conductive paths 238W, 238X, 238Y, and 238Z as input paths.

[0127] When power supply system 210 is externally charged, power supply circuit 236 also operates in the same manner as power supply circuit 36. Furthermore, when power supply system 210 is externally charged, relays 238A, 238B, 238C, 238D, 238E, and 238F of selection circuit 238 are all turned on. Other than these points, the "operation during external charging" of power supply system 210 is the same as that of power supply system 10 according to the first embodiment.

[0128] When the power supply system 210 is in the normal state while the vehicle is traveling, the power supply circuit 236 also operates in the same manner as the power supply circuit 36. Furthermore, when the vehicle is in the normal state while the vehicle is traveling, the power supply system 210 turns on all relays 238A, 238B, 238C, 238D, 238E, and 238F of the selection circuit 238. Other than these points, the "normal operation" of the power supply system 210 during vehicle travel is the same as that of the power supply system 10 of the first embodiment. It should be noted that the power supply system 210 does not necessarily turn on relay 238F during the normal state.

[0129] While the vehicle is running, the control unit 18 monitors the first and second conductive paths 21 and 22 for abnormalities in the power supply system 210 using any of the aforementioned determination methods. Furthermore, while the vehicle is running, the control unit 18 monitors the power supply circuits 34, 36, and 236 for abnormalities using any of the aforementioned determination methods. The method for determining abnormalities in the power supply circuit 236 is the same as that for the power supply circuits 34 and 36.

[0130] If the control unit 18 determines that an abnormality exists on the first conductive path 21 side using any of the above-described determination methods while the vehicle is traveling, it turns relays 238A, 238D, and 238F off and turns relays 238B, 238C, and 238E on. This action cuts off the power flow between the output circuits 46, 56, and 256 and the first conductive path 21, and also cuts off the power flow between the second conductive path 22 and the first conductive path 21. Consequently, the first conductive path 21 is electrically disconnected, allowing power from the output circuits 56 and 256 to be selectively supplied to the second conductive path 22. In this case, the control unit 18 may not turn all relays 238B, 238C, and 238E on, but may turn relay 238B on and turn relays 238C and 238E off, or may turn relay 238B off and turn relays 238C and 238E on.

[0131] If the control unit 18 determines that an abnormality exists on the second conductive path 22 side using any of the aforementioned determination methods while the vehicle is traveling, it turns off relays 238D, 238B, and 238E and turns on relays 238A, 238C, and 238F. This action cuts off the power flow between the output circuits 46, 56, and 256 and the second conductive path 22, and also cuts off the power flow between the second conductive path 22 and the first conductive path 21. Consequently, the second conductive path 22 is electrically disconnected, allowing power from the output circuits 46 and 256 to be selectively supplied to the first conductive path 21. In this case, the control unit 18 may not turn on all relays 238A, 238C, and 238F, but may turn on relay 238A and off relays 238C and 238F, or may turn off relay 238A and on relays 238C and 238F.

[0132] If the control unit 18 determines that the power supply circuit 34 is abnormal (for example, if it determines that an output abnormality has occurred in the output circuit 46) using any of the above-described determination methods while the vehicle is traveling, it turns off relay 238A. In this case, the control unit 18 turns on the other relays 238B, 238C, 238D, 238E, and 238F. This action cuts off the power flow between the output circuit 46 and the first and second conductive paths 21 and 22. Note that in this case, the control unit 18 need not turn on all of relays 238B, 238C, 238D, 238E, and 238F.

[0133] If the control unit 18 determines that the power supply circuit 36 is abnormal (for example, if it determines that an output abnormality has occurred in the output circuit 56) using any of the above-described determination methods while the vehicle is traveling, it turns off relay 238B. In this case, the control unit 18 turns on the other relays 238A, 238C, 238D, 238E, and 238F. This action cuts off the power flow between the output circuit 56 and the first and second conductive paths 21 and 22. It should be noted that in this case, the control unit 18 does not necessarily have to turn on all relays 238A, 238C, 238D, 238E, and 238F.

[0134] If the control unit 18 determines that the power supply circuit 236 is abnormal (for example, if it determines that an output abnormality has occurred in the output circuit 256) using any of the above-described determination methods while the vehicle is traveling, it turns off relay 238C. In this case, the control unit 18 turns on the other relays 238A, 238B, 238D, 238E, and 238F. This action cuts off the power flow between the output circuit 56 and the first and second conductive paths 21 and 22. It should be noted that in this case, the control unit 18 does not necessarily have to turn on all relays 238A, 238B, 238D, 238E, and 238F.

[0135] <Other Implementation Methods>

[0136] The present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described above and illustrated in the accompanying drawings. For example, the features of the above-mentioned or later-described embodiments may be combined in any manner to the extent that they do not conflict. Furthermore, any feature of the above-mentioned or later-described embodiments may be omitted unless explicitly stated as an essential feature. Furthermore, the above-mentioned embodiments may also be modified as follows.

[0137] In the above embodiment, the transformer unit 39 is composed of a plurality of transformers 48, 58, etc., but it may also be configured as follows. Figure 6 Like the power supply system 310, the transformer unit 339 is composed of a single transformer. Figure 6 The in-vehicle system 302 is a system in which the power supply system 10 is replaced with a power supply system 310 in the in-vehicle system 2 . Figure 6 The structure will Figure 1 The plurality of inverter circuits 42 and 52 are shared by the inverter circuit 42, and the converter circuits 44 and 54 and the output circuits 46 and 56 are electrically connected to the respective second coils of the shared transformer (transformer unit 339). Figure 6 The structure also performs the same operation as the first embodiment and can produce the same effects as the first embodiment.

[0138] In the above embodiment, the output circuits 46 , 56 , and 256 are configured as predetermined rectifier circuits. However, any circuit that can convert input AC power into DC power and output the DC power may have another configuration.

[0139] In the above embodiment, the power supply system 10 includes the high-voltage battery 11 (power storage unit), but the power supply system 10 may not include the high-voltage battery 11. In other words, the power supply system 10 may be a device separate from the high-voltage battery 11.

[0140] In the above embodiment, the power supply system 10 includes a first low-voltage battery 12A and a second low-voltage battery 12B (low-voltage batteries whose output voltage is lower than that of the storage unit). However, the power supply system 10 may not include either or both of the first low-voltage battery 12A and the second low-voltage battery 12B. In other words, the power supply system 10 may be a device separate from either or both of the first low-voltage battery 12A and the second low-voltage battery 12B.

[0141] In the above-described embodiment, the control unit 18 corresponds to an example of a selection control unit, but the selection control unit may be configured as a device separate from the control unit 18 .

[0142] In the above embodiment, the control unit 18 functions as the first abnormality detection unit and the second abnormality detection unit. However, one or both of the first abnormality detection unit and the second abnormality detection unit may be configured by a device different from the control unit 18 .

[0143] While the above embodiment describes an example of determining an abnormality on the first conductive path 21 side and an example of determining an abnormality on the second conductive path 22 side, the present invention is not limited to these examples. For example, the first abnormality detection unit may determine an abnormality on the first conductive path 21 side when receiving an abnormality signal from the first load 5 or a control device that controls the first load 5. Similarly, the second abnormality detection unit may determine an abnormality on the second conductive path 22 side when receiving an abnormality signal from the second load 6 or a control device that controls the second load 6. Alternatively, the first abnormality detection unit may determine an abnormality on the first conductive path 21 side when the SOH (States of Health) of the first low-voltage battery 12A is in a degraded state below a predetermined value. Similarly, the second abnormality detection unit may determine an abnormality on the second conductive path 22 side when the SOH (States of Health) of the second low-voltage battery 12B is in a degraded state below a predetermined value.

[0144] In the above embodiments, the power supply systems 10, 210, and 310 are described as being mounted on vehicles such as PHEVs and EVs, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The power supply systems 10, 210, and 310 may also be mounted on vehicles other than those described above (e.g., HEVs (Hybrid Electric Vehicles)) or on devices other than vehicles.

[0145] It should be noted that the embodiments disclosed herein are illustrative in all respects and are not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed herein, but is intended to include all modifications within the scope of the claims or within the scope equivalent to the claims.

[0146] Description of labels

[0147] 1: Vehicle

[0148] 2: In-vehicle system

[0149] 4: High voltage load

[0150] 5: First load

[0151] 5A: First auxiliary load

[0152] 5B: The first autonomous driving payload

[0153] 6: Second load

[0154] 6A: Second auxiliary load

[0155] 6B: Second autonomous driving payload

[0156] 8: Drive unit

[0157] 10: Power system

[0158] 11: High-voltage battery (storage unit)

[0159] 12: Low voltage battery

[0160] 12A: First low-voltage battery

[0161] 12B: Second low-voltage battery

[0162] 14A: Conductive path

[0163] 14B: Conductive path

[0164] 18: Control unit (selection control unit, abnormal circuit detection unit, stop control unit, output abnormality detection unit)

[0165] 21: First conductive path

[0166] 21A: Conductive path

[0167] 21B: Conductive Path

[0168] 22: Second conductive path

[0169] 22A: Conductive path

[0170] 22B: Conductive path

[0171] 30: Power supply department

[0172] 32: PFC converter

[0173] 32A: Inductor

[0174] 32B: Inductor

[0175] 32C: Switching element

[0176] 32D: Switching element

[0177] 32E: Switching element

[0178] 32F: Switching element

[0179] 32H: Capacitor

[0180] 32M: terminal

[0181] 32N: Terminal

[0182] 34: Power supply circuit

[0183] 36: Power supply circuit

[0184] 37: Inverter

[0185] 38: Select Circuit

[0186] 38A: Relay

[0187] 38B: Relay

[0188] 38C: Relay

[0189] 38X: Conductive Path

[0190] 38Y: Conductive Path

[0191] 38Z: Conductive Path

[0192] 39: Transformer Department

[0193] 42: Inverter circuit

[0194] 42C: Switching element

[0195] 42D: Switching element

[0196] 42E: Switching element

[0197] 42F: Switching element

[0198] 42M: terminal

[0199] 42N: Terminal

[0200] 44: Converter circuit

[0201] 44H: Capacitor

[0202] 44M: terminal

[0203] 44N: Terminal

[0204] 46: Output circuit (rectifier circuit)

[0205] 46A: diode

[0206] 46B: diode

[0207] 46C: Inductor

[0208] 46D: Capacitor

[0209] 46M: Output terminal

[0210] 46N: Output terminal

[0211] 48: First Transformer

[0212] 48A: First coil

[0213] 48B: Second coil (second coil on the first side)

[0214] 48C: Second coil (second coil on the second side)

[0215] 48M: First end

[0216] 48N: Second end

[0217] 52: Inverter circuit

[0218] 54: Converter circuit

[0219] 56: Output circuit (rectifier circuit)

[0220] 58: Transformer

[0221] 58A: First coil

[0222] 58B: Second coil (second coil on the first side)

[0223] 58C: Second coil (second coil on the second side)

[0224] 58M: First end

[0225] 58N: Second end

[0226] 60A: Conductive path

[0227] 60B: Conductive path

[0228] 61A: Conductive path

[0229] 61B: Conductive Path

[0230] 91: Noise filter unit

[0231] 92: Noise filter unit

[0232] 94: Noise filter unit

[0233] 96: Noise filter unit

[0234] 190: External AC power supply

[0235] 202: In-vehicle systems

[0236] 210: Power System

[0237] 236: Power supply circuit

[0238] 238: Select Circuit

[0239] 238A: Relay

[0240] 238B: Relay

[0241] 238C: Relay

[0242] 238D: Relay

[0243] 238E: Relay

[0244] 238F: Relay

[0245] 238W: Conductive Path

[0246] 238X: Conductive Path

[0247] 238Y: Conductive Path

[0248] 238Z: Conductive Path

[0249] 256: Output circuit (rectifier circuit)

[0250] 310: Power System

[0251] 339: Transformer department.

Claims

1. A power supply system for an in-vehicle system, comprising: a first conductive path as a path for supplying power to a first load; a second conductive path as a path for supplying power to a second load; and a power storage unit, wherein: The power supply system comprises: an inverter unit including one or more inverter circuits configured to convert direct current power based on power supplied from a power source different from the power storage unit into alternating current power for supply; a transformer unit including one or more first coils and a plurality of second coils to which AC power is supplied from the inverter unit; a converter circuit electrically connected to a first-side second coil among the plurality of second coils, and converting AC power of the first-side second coil into DC power and supplying the DC power to the power storage unit; a plurality of output circuits electrically connected to a plurality of second coils on a second side different from the second coils on the first side among the plurality of second coils; and a selection circuit, which is supplied with power from the plurality of output circuits, Each of the plurality of output circuits is electrically connected to each of the plurality of second coils on the second side, and outputs DC power based on the AC power of the second coils on the second side. The selection circuit selects a destination to which power is supplied from the first conductive path and the second conductive path.

2. The power supply system according to claim 1, wherein: Each of the plurality of output circuits is a rectifier circuit that rectifies the AC power supplied from the second coil on the second side.

3. The power supply system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The power supply system includes a selection control unit that controls the selection operation of the selection circuit. When the first condition is met, the selection control unit controls the selection circuit to cut off the power supply to the second conductive path and allow the power supply to the first conductive path. When the second condition is met, the selection control unit controls the selection circuit to cut off the power supply to the first conductive path and allow the power supply to the second conductive path.

4. The power supply system according to claim 3, wherein: The power supply system comprises: a first abnormality detecting unit configured to detect an abnormality on the first conductive path side; and a second abnormality detecting unit configured to detect an abnormality on the second conductive path side; When the second abnormality detection unit detects an abnormality on the second conductive path side, the selection control unit controls the selection circuit to cut off the power supply to the second conductive path and allow the power supply to the first conductive path. When the first abnormality detection unit detects an abnormality on the first conductive path side, the selection control unit controls the selection circuit to cut off the power supply to the first conductive path and allow the power supply to the second conductive path.

5. The power supply system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The inverter unit includes a plurality of inverter circuits. The transformer unit includes a plurality of transformers, each transformer including the first coil and the second coil on the second side. Each of the inverter circuits is electrically connected to the first coil of each of the transformers to supply AC power to each of the first coils. The second coil on the second side of each of the transformers is electrically connected to each of the output circuits to supply AC power to each of the output circuits.

6. The power supply system according to claim 5, wherein: The power supply system includes a plurality of the converter circuits. Each transformer of the plurality of transformers has a second coil on the first side, Each of the first-side second coils is electrically connected to each of the converter circuits to supply AC power to each of the converter circuits.

7. The power supply system according to claim 6, wherein: The power supply system is provided with a plurality of power supply circuits, each of which includes the inverter circuit, the transformer, the converter circuit, and the output circuit. The power supply system further comprises: an abnormal circuit detection unit that, when any one of the plurality of power supply circuits is in an abnormal state, detects the power supply circuit in the abnormal state; and The stop control unit stops the operation of the power supply circuit that has entered the abnormal state.

8. The power supply system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The power supply system comprises: A selection control unit controls the selection action of the selection circuit; and an output abnormality detection unit that detects the output circuit having the output abnormality when any one of the plurality of output circuits has the output abnormality; The selection control unit controls the selection circuit in the following manner: cuts off the power supply between the output circuit that has the output abnormality and the first conductive path and the second conductive path, and allows the power supply between the output circuit that has not the output abnormality and at least one of the first conductive path and the second conductive path.

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