power supply system

Abstract

The present invention provides a power supply system comprising a plurality of charging piles that can be stored underground. The power supply system comprises: a determination unit (steps S612 and S623) that determines a power supply device that can be used to supply power to a target vehicle; and a transmission unit (steps S613 and S624) that transmits guidance information to the target vehicle, the guidance information being used to guide the target vehicle to the identified charging pile in an autonomous driving manner. The target vehicle is guided to the usable charging pile in an autonomous driving manner. Even if the user does not search for it, the user can reach the usable charging pile.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a power supply system, and in particular, to a power supply system including a plurality of power supply devices that can be stored underground. Background Art

[0002] Japanese Patent No. 5475407 discloses a power supply device that can be stored underground.

[0003] The power supply device has a base pole (fixed part) and a charging pole (movable part). The user grasps the handle provided on the top surface (top surface) of the charging pole stored under the ground and pulls the charging pole upward, thereby pulling the charging pole out to the ground. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The power supply equipment disclosed in Japanese Patent No. 5475407 is stored underground when not in use, making it difficult for a user to know the location of the power supply equipment and to determine whether the power supply equipment can be used.

[0005] The present invention has been made to solve the above-mentioned problem, and an object of the present invention is to provide a power supply system that enables a user to reach a usable power supply facility without searching for it.

[0006] The power supply system of the present invention is a power supply system that includes multiple power supply devices that can be stored underground, and has: a determination unit that determines the power supply devices that can be used in powering a target vehicle; a sending unit that sends guidance information to the target vehicle, wherein the guidance information is used to guide the target vehicle to the determined power supply device in an autonomous driving manner.

[0007] With this configuration, a power supply facility that can be used to power a target vehicle is identified, and guidance information is transmitted to the target vehicle to automatically guide the target vehicle to the identified power supply facility. Consequently, the target vehicle is automatically guided to the available power supply facility. As a result, the user can reach the available power supply facility without having to search for it.

[0008] Each of the multiple power supply devices has a movable part, an actuator, and a control device. The movable part is configured to have a power supply port and to be displaced within a movable range including a first position and a second position. The first position is a position where the power supply port is stored under the ground, and the second position is a position where the power supply port is exposed above the ground. The actuator moves the movable part, and the control device controls the actuator. The control device of the power supply device determined by the determination unit controls the actuator in such a manner that the movable part is displaced to the second position at a specified timing related to the parking of the target vehicle toward the power supply position of the power supply device.

[0009] With this configuration, at a predetermined timing associated with the target vehicle approaching the designated power supply location, the movable portion of the power supply device moves to the second position where the power supply port is exposed above the ground. This creates a welcoming feeling for the user, thereby improving user satisfaction.

[0010] Each of the plurality of power supply devices includes a determination unit and a transmission unit. The power supply system further includes a server capable of communicating with each of the plurality of power supply devices, the server including the determination unit and the transmission unit.

[0011] The identifying unit identifies a power supply facility that can be used for power supply near the destination of the target vehicle. The transmitting unit transmits guidance information to the target vehicle when the power supply facility is identified. The transmitting unit transmits guidance information to the target vehicle when the target vehicle arrives at a predetermined location associated with the power supply facility identified by the identifying unit.

[0012] The foregoing and other objects, features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description of the present invention when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] Figure 1 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of a vehicle and power supply equipment according to the present embodiment.

[0014] Figure 2 It is a diagram showing a state where the movable part is raised.

[0015] Figure 3 1 is a diagram showing a first layout example of charging stations.

[0016] Figure 4 2 is a diagram showing a second layout example of charging piles.

[0017] Figure 5 This is a flowchart showing the flow of processing executed in the power supply system according to the first embodiment until the vehicle reaches the charging station.

[0018] Figure 6 This is a flowchart showing the flow of processing executed in the power supply system according to the second embodiment until the vehicle reaches the charging station. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0019] [First Embodiment] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, the same or corresponding parts are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their description will not be repeated.

[0020] Figure 1 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of a vehicle and power supply equipment according to this embodiment. The power supply system 1 according to this embodiment includes a plurality of power supply equipment. Figure 1The charging pile 300 shown. The charging pile 300 corresponds to EVSE (Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment).

[0021] Reference Figure 1 The charging pile 300 can be stored under the ground F1. The charging pile 300 corresponds to an underground power supply device (power supply device that can be stored under the ground). Figure 1 The state of the charging stand 300 shown is a state in which the charging stand 300 is stored under the ground surface F1 (hereinafter also referred to as “stored state”).

[0022] The charging pile 300 has a movable part 301 and a fixed part 302. The movable part 301 and the fixed part 302 each have a cylindrical frame. The material of each frame can be metal or plastic. The surface of each frame can also be waterproofed. The frame of the movable part 301 has a larger diameter than the frame of the fixed part 302 and is arranged on the outside of the frame of the fixed part 302 in a manner that the central axes of each frame are consistent. The movable part 301 is configured to be displaceable in the vertical direction (up and down direction) along the outer peripheral surface of the fixed part 302.

[0023] The charging pile 300 is arranged in a recess R1 extending downward from the ground F1. In the stored state, the entire charging pile 300 is stored inside the recess R1. The fixed part 302 is fixed to the bottom surface of the recess R1. The fixed part 302 has a power supply circuit 310, an actuator 320, and a control device 330 in the frame. The movable part 301 is driven by the actuator 320 and displaced relative to the fixed part 302. A sealing component (not shown) can also be provided in the gap between the outer peripheral surface of the frame of the movable part 301 and the inner wall of the recess R1.

[0024] The movable part 301 has a space for storing a connector 311 and a power supply cable 312 (hereinafter referred to as a "cable storage portion"). The cable storage portion is, for example, a recessed portion formed on the side of the movable part 301 by processing a portion of the cylindrical frame of the movable part 301. A connector 311 is provided at the first end of the power supply cable 312. The second end of the power supply cable 312 (the end opposite to the first end) is connected to the power supply circuit 310 via an electric wire not shown. In the stored state, the movable part 301 has a connector 311 and a power supply cable 312 in the cable storage portion. In this embodiment, the connector 311 corresponds to an example of a "power supply port" of the present invention. In addition, the power supply cable 312 (including the connector 311) can also be configured to be attachable and detachable relative to the movable part 301. In the movable part 301 in a state where the power supply cable 312 is removed, the connector for the power supply cable 312 (the portion on which the power supply cable 312 is mounted) corresponds to the power supply port of the movable part 301.

[0025] The power supply circuit 310 is configured to receive power from an AC power source 350 and supply power to the movable portion 301 (more specifically, the power supply cable 312). The AC power source 350 supplies AC power to the power supply circuit 310. The AC power source 350 may also be a commercial power source (e.g., a power system provided by a power company). The power supply circuit 310 is controlled by a control device 330.

[0026] The power supply cable 312 is stretchable and bendable. A cable reel configured to wind up the power supply cable 312 may also be provided in the cable storage section. The cable reel may also be a mechanical automatic winding device (e.g., a spring-loaded cable reel). In addition, a cover (not shown) for opening and closing the cable storage section may also be provided. In addition, a sensor for detecting whether the connector 311 and the power supply cable 312 are housed in the cable storage section may also be provided in the cable storage section.

[0027] In the retracted state, the top surface 301a of the movable part 301 is flush with the ground F1. The actuator 320 directly or indirectly provides power to the movable part 301, causing the movable part 301 to move in the vertical direction (see the following description). Figure 2 ). The actuator 320 may also be an electric actuator that generates power using the electricity supplied from the power supply circuit 310. The displacement mechanism of the movable part 301 may also be a rack and pinion type. For example, it may be configured so that a rack is fixed to the movable part 301, and the actuator 320 rotationally drives a pinion that meshes with the rack. Alternatively, a rod connected to the piston may be fixed to the movable part 301, and the actuator 320 moves the piston using hydraulic pressure or pneumatic pressure. Alternatively, the actuator 320 may use electricity to generate magnetic force, and utilize the magnetic force to directly provide power to the movable part 301. The actuator 320 is controlled by a controller 330.

[0028] Figure 2 3 is a diagram showing a state where the movable portion 301 is raised. Figure 2 The movable portion 301 is displaced (raised and lowered) in the vertical direction so as to change the position Px of the top surface 301a. Hereinafter, for convenience of description, the position Px of the top surface 301a of the movable portion 301 is referred to as the position of the movable portion 301.

[0029] The movable part 301 is configured to be displaced within the movable range R2. The lower limit position P1 of the movable range R2 is the same height as the ground F1. When the position of the movable part 301 is the lower limit position P1, the entire movable part 301 (including the cable storage part) is stored under the ground F1. If the position of the movable part 301 is higher than the lower limit position P1, at least a part of the movable part 301 is exposed on the ground F1. The upper limit position P2 of the movable range R2 is set to a position that is sufficiently high relative to the height of the entrance of a normal vehicle. When the position of the movable part 301 is the upper limit position P2, the cable storage part (connector 311 and power supply cable 312) of the movable part 301 is exposed on the ground F1. In addition, even if the position of the movable part 301 is lower than the upper limit position P2 (for example, Figure 2 The cable storage section can also be exposed above the ground F1 (position Px shown). In this way, the movable range R2 includes a first position (e.g., lower limit position P1) where the power port is stored below the ground and a second position (e.g., upper limit position P2) where the power port is exposed above the ground. In this embodiment, the lower limit position P1 is at the same level as the ground F1, but the lower limit position P1 can also be set below the ground F1.

[0030] Refer again Figure 1 The movable part 301 further includes a communication device 341, a notification device 342, and a touch panel display 313. The communication device 341 is configured to be able to wirelessly communicate with a server 600 described later. The communication device 341 can also be configured to be able to communicate with a communication device other than the server 600. The communication device 341 transmits information received from outside the charging pile 300 to the control device 330. The control device 330 sequentially transmits the status of the charging pile 300 to the server 600 via the communication device 341.

[0031] The notification device 342 is provided near the top surface 301a of the movable part 301. In this embodiment, the notification device 342 includes a lamp and a speaker. The lamp may also be an LED (light emitting diode) lamp. The control device 330 controls the lighting state of the lamp (for example, lighting / flashing / extinguishing). The control device 330 controls the speaker so that the speaker makes a sound (including voice) notification. The touch panel display 313 receives input from the user and displays various information. The touch panel display 313 is configured to receive instructions related to power supply (for example, instructions for starting power supply and stopping power supply). In addition, the touch panel display 313 is configured to display the power supply status of the charging pile 300 (powering / stopping power supply). The touch panel display 313 is controlled by the control device 330.

[0032] The control device 330 can also be a computer. The control device 330 includes a processor 331, a memory 332, a storage device 333, a timer 334 and a communication unit 335. As the processor 331, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) can be used. In addition to the program, the memory 332 also stores information used in the program (for example, mapping, mathematical expressions and various parameters). In this embodiment, the various controls in the charging pile 300 are executed by executing the program stored in the memory 332 by the processor 331. However, the various controls in the charging pile 300 are not limited to software-based execution, and can also be executed by dedicated hardware (electronic circuits). In addition, the number of processors possessed by the control device 330 is arbitrary, and a processor can also be prepared for each specified control. The storage device 333 is configured to be able to save the stored information. The communication unit 335 is an interface with the communication device 341.

[0033] Timer 334 is configured to notify processor 331 of the arrival of a set time. When the time set in timer 334 arrives, a signal notifying the processor 331 is sent from timer 334 to the processor 331. Timer 334 can be implemented as hardware (a timer circuit) or software. Furthermore, control device 330 can utilize a real-time clock (RTC) circuit (not shown) built into control device 330 to obtain the current time.

[0034] Figure 1 and Figure 2 Vehicle 200 shown is an electric vehicle that includes a battery 210, equipment for running using the electricity stored in battery 210 (e.g., a motor generator (hereinafter referred to as "MG") 221 and an inverter (hereinafter referred to as "INV") 222, described later), and equipment for charging battery 210 using a charging station 300 (e.g., an inlet 211 and a charger 212, described later). Vehicle 200 in this embodiment is an electric vehicle (EV) that does not have an engine (internal combustion engine).

[0035] Vehicle 200 also includes an electronic control unit (hereinafter referred to as an "ECU") 230, a communication device 240, and a touch panel display 250. ECU 230 may be a computer. ECU 230 includes a processor, memory, and storage (none of which are shown). The processor executes programs stored in the memory to perform various vehicle controls. However, vehicle controls are not limited to software-based execution; they can also be performed using dedicated hardware (electronic circuitry).

[0036] Touch panel display 250 receives touch operations from the user and outputs the contents of the received touch operations to ECU 230. ECU 230 executes processing according to the program in response to the contents of the touch operations. ECU 230 outputs a signal to touch panel display 250 indicating the results of program execution. Touch panel display 250 displays an image corresponding to the signal from ECU 230.

[0037] The ECU 230 is configured to communicate with the outside of the vehicle 200 via the communication device 240. The communication device 240 includes various communication I / Fs (interfaces). The communication device 240 includes a communication interface for communicating with the server 600 ( Figure 1 ) for wireless communication. Furthermore, communication device 240 mounted on vehicle 200 and portable terminal 100 communicate with each other wirelessly. ECU 230 can control portable terminal 100 through wireless communication, causing portable terminal 100 to notify the user. Communication between communication device 240 and portable terminal 100 can be short-range communication (e.g., direct communication within the vehicle and its surroundings).

[0038] Battery 210 is composed of a secondary battery such as a lithium-ion battery or a nickel-metal hydride battery. The secondary battery may be a battery pack or a solid-state battery. Alternatively, other power storage devices such as an electric double-layer capacitor may be used instead of the secondary battery.

[0039] Vehicle 200 also includes a monitoring module 210a for monitoring the status of battery 210. Monitoring module 210a includes various sensors for detecting the status of battery 210 (e.g., voltage, current, and temperature) and outputs the detection results to ECU 230. In addition to the aforementioned sensor functions, monitoring module 210a may also be a BMS (Battery Management System) with functions for estimating SOC (State of Charge), SOH (State of Health), equalizing cell voltages, diagnostic functions, and communication. ECU 230 can obtain the status of battery 210 (e.g., temperature, current, voltage, SOC, and internal resistance) based on the output of monitoring module 210a.

[0040] Vehicle 200 includes MG 221 and INV 222 for electric travel. MG 221 is, for example, a three-phase AC motor generator. MG 221 is driven by INV 222 to rotate the drive wheels W of vehicle 200. INV 222 uses power supplied from battery 210 to drive MG 221. MG 221 also performs regenerative power generation and supplies the generated power to battery 210 via INV 222. The driving method of vehicle 200 is not limited to Figure 1and Figure 2 Front-wheel drive shown, rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive also available.

[0041] The vehicle 200 includes an inlet 211 and a charger 212 for contact charging. The inlet 211 is configured as a connector 311 capable of connecting to a power supply cable 312 of the charging pile 300. Contacts are built into both the inlet 211 and the connector 311. When the connector 311 is installed on the inlet 211, the contacts are in contact with each other, and the inlet 211 and the connector 311 are electrically connected. Hereinafter, the state in which the connector 311 is connected to the inlet 211 (that is, the state in which the charging pile 300 and the vehicle 200 are electrically connected via the power supply cable 312) is referred to as the "plugged-in state". In addition, the state in which the connector 311 is not connected to the inlet 211 (that is, the state in which the charging pile 300 and the vehicle 200 are not electrically connected) is referred to as the "plugged-out state".

[0042] Charger 212 includes a power conversion circuit (not shown). The power conversion circuit converts power supplied from outside the vehicle to inlet 211 into power suitable for charging battery 210. For example, when AC power is supplied from inlet 211, charger 212 converts the supplied AC power into DC power and supplies it to battery 210. Charger 212 is controlled by ECU 230.

[0043] exist Figure 1 The server 600 included in the power supply system 1 shown is configured to include a CPU 610, a memory 620, a storage device 630 and a communication unit 640. The CPU 610 is configured to perform prescribed information processing. The memory 620 is configured to store programs executed by the CPU 610 and data during program execution. The storage device 630 is configured to be able to store various information. The communication unit 640 includes various communication I / Fs. The CPU 610 is configured to communicate with the outside via the communication unit 640. The server 600 is configured to be able to communicate with each charging pile 300. In addition, the server 600 can also be configured to communicate with the vehicle 200 via the charging pile 300 during charging of the battery 210.

[0044] In server 600, multiple vehicles (including vehicle 200), multiple users (including users of vehicle 200), and multiple EVSEs (including charging piles 300) are registered. Server 600 is configured to manage information about each registered user (hereinafter also referred to as "user information"), information about each registered vehicle (hereinafter also referred to as "vehicle information"), and information about each registered EVSE (hereinafter also referred to as "EVSE information"). Information related to the user terminal is included in at least one of the user information and the vehicle information. User information, vehicle information, and EVSE information are stored in storage device 630 of server 600.

[0045] Identification information (user ID) is provided for each user, and the server 600 uses the user ID to distinguish and manage user information. The user ID also serves as information for identifying the user terminal (terminal ID). User information includes, for example, the communication address and location information of the portable terminal carried by the user, and information identifying the vehicle belonging to the user (vehicle ID). In addition, identification information (vehicle ID) is provided for each vehicle, and the server 600 uses the vehicle ID to distinguish and manage vehicle information. Vehicle information includes, for example, vehicle specifications (e.g., specifications related to charging) and information received by the server 600 from the user terminal (e.g., the vehicle's travel plan). Furthermore, identification information (EVSE-ID) is provided for each EVSE, and the server 600 uses the EVSE-ID to distinguish and manage EVSE information. EVSE information includes the EVSE's connection status (plugged in / unplugged), the combination of the plugged EVSE and vehicle (vehicle ID and EVSE-ID), and the EVSE's power supply status (powering / powering stopped).

[0046] have Figure 1 and Figure 2 The charging piles 300 of the structure shown can also be set in multiple locations. These charging piles 300 can also be configured to communicate with each other. The communication method can be wireless or wired. Figure 3 and Figure 4 , an example of the layout of multiple charging piles 300 is described.

[0047] Figure 3 3 is a diagram showing a first layout example of the charging pile 300. Figure 3 In this example, within a parking lot 40A, multiple parking spaces 400 are divided by dividing lines 402 in a horizontal arrangement (horizontally). A sidewalk 500 is provided along the short sides (orthogonal to the long sides) of these parking spaces 400. The sidewalk 500 is adjacent to each parking space 400. Charging piles 300 are provided on the sidewalk 500 at positions adjacent to each parking space 400. The charging piles 300 are provided for each parking space 400. These charging piles 300 are arranged along the sidewalk 500. In the site 40A, there is an entrance 41A.

[0048] Figure 4 3 is a diagram showing a second layout example of the charging pile 300. Figure 4In this example, within parking lot 40B, multiple parking spaces 410 are divided into longitudinal rows (columns) by dividing lines 412. A sidewalk 510 is provided along the length of these parking spaces 410. The sidewalk 510 is adjacent to each parking space 410. Charging piles 300 are provided at positions adjacent to each parking space 410 on the sidewalk 510. The charging piles 300 are provided for each parking space 400. These charging piles 300 are arranged along the sidewalk 510. An entrance 41B is provided in the parking lot 40B.

[0049] The charging pile 300 as described above is stored under the ground when not in use, so it is difficult for the user to know the location of the charging pile 300 and to determine whether the charging pile 300 can be used.

[0050] Therefore, the power supply system 1 includes a plurality of charging posts 300 that can be stored underground, identifies a charging post 300 that can be used to supply power to the target vehicle 200, and sends guidance information to the target vehicle 200 for guiding the target vehicle 200 to the identified charging post 300 in an autonomous driving manner.

[0051] As a result, the target vehicle 200 is guided to the available charging station 300 by automatic driving. As a result, the user can reach the available charging station 300 without searching for it.

[0052] First, an example of a process in which a user of the vehicle 200 operates the charging station 300 to charge the battery 210 will be described. The charging station 300 is in a stored state (e.g., Figure 1 status shown).

[0053] When the vehicle 200 approaches a parking space near the charging station 300 in an autonomous manner, the movable portion 301 of the charging station 300 starts to rise as described later. The movable portion 301 rises to a position where the connector 311 of the power supply cable 312 can be easily connected to the inlet 211 of the vehicle 200 (for example, Figure 2 As a result, the charging pile 300 becomes ready for insertion. Hereinafter, the state in which the movable part 301 is raised to the position in which it can be inserted is also referred to as the "raised state".

[0054] Users in e.g. Figure 2In the charging pile 300 shown in the raised state, the power supply cable 312 is removed from the cable storage portion of the movable part 301 and extended toward the vehicle 200. The user then connects the connector 311 of the power supply cable 312 to the inlet 211 of the vehicle 200. As a result, the vehicle 200 and the charging pile 300 are in a plugged-in state. In the plugged-in state, communication can be performed between the vehicle 200 and the EVSE 300, and power can be transmitted and received between the vehicle 200 and the charging pile 300. The ECU 230 of the vehicle 200 communicates with the control device 330 of the charging pile 300 via the power supply cable 312.

[0055] The user operates the charging pile 300 in the plugged-in state, causing the charging pile 300 to perform power supply. The charging pile 300 starts power supply according to the instruction from the user. Specifically, in the charging pile 300, the power supply circuit 310 converts (e.g., transforms) the AC power supplied from the AC power supply 350 into AC power suitable for powering the vehicle 200, and supplies the converted power to the power supply cable 312. In the plugged-in state, the power supplied from the power supply circuit 310 to the power supply cable 312 is input to the inlet 211 of the vehicle 200. Then, the battery 210 is charged in the vehicle 200. Specifically, the power input to the inlet 211 is supplied to the battery 210 via the charger 212. During the charging of the battery 210, the control device 330 controls the power supply circuit 310 to adjust the power supply, and the ECU 230 controls the charger 212 to adjust the charging power. In this way, the charging pile 300 is configured to charge the power storage device mounted on the vehicle.

[0056] Then, when the charging of the battery 210 is completed, the user operates the charging pile 300 to instruct the power supply to stop. However, when the battery 210 becomes fully charged, a stop instruction is automatically sent from the ECU 230 to the control device 330. The charging pile 300 stops supplying power according to the stop instruction. Then, the user unplugs the connector 311 of the power supply cable 312 from the entrance 211 of the vehicle 200 and stores the power supply cable 312 in the cable storage section. As a result, the vehicle 200 and the charging pile 300 are in a plug-in state. When the user returns the power supply cable 312 to the cable storage section, the control device 330 lowers the movable part 301 to the lower limit position P1 of the movable range R2. When the position of the movable part 301 reaches the lower limit position P1, the ground F1 and the top surface 301a of the movable part 301 become flush with each other. In this way, the charging pile 300 is stored again.

[0057] Figure 5 1 is a flowchart showing the flow of processing executed in the power supply system 1 according to the first embodiment until the vehicle 200 reaches the charging station 300. Figure 5In server 600, CPU 610 determines via communication unit 640 whether information indicating the destination has been received from user's vehicle 200 (step S611). In vehicle 200, the destination is input to ECU 230, for example, by operating touch panel display 250. Information indicating the destination is not limited to being received from user's vehicle 200, but may also be received from other devices (e.g., the user's mobile terminal).

[0058] If it is determined that information indicating the destination has been received (YES in step S611), CPU 610 searches the database of charging piles 300 stored in storage device 630 for available charging piles 300 near the destination (step S612). The vicinity of the destination is an area that satisfies a predetermined condition indicating proximity to the destination. For example, it may be an area that can be reached by vehicle 200 from the destination within a predetermined period (e.g., several minutes, such as 5 or 10 minutes), or an area that is a predetermined distance from the destination (e.g., several kilometers, such as 1 or 2 km).

[0059] Then, the CPU 610 controls the communication unit 640 in a manner that sends guidance information to the vehicle 200 for guiding the vehicle 200 to the retrieved charging pile 300 in an automatic driving manner (step S613). The guidance information includes at least the location information of the guided charging pile 300, and may also include information indicating the path to the charging pile 300. In addition, when sending guidance information to the vehicle 200, reservation information including the scheduled time for starting charging (=arrival at the scheduled time) may also be sent to the guided charging pile 300, so that charging can be started from the arrival at the scheduled time. The reservation information may also include information for determining the charging period (for example, the SOC of the battery 210 of the vehicle 200 at that moment, the charging period desired by the user).

[0060] At charging station 300, upon receiving the user's desired charging period, processor 331 of control device 330 can determine the vehicle 200's scheduled use of charging station 300 before the scheduled charging end time, which is the sum of the vehicle 200's scheduled arrival time and the received charging period. Thus, charging station 300 can determine the time when the next vehicle can begin use.

[0061] At charging station 300, upon receiving the SOC of battery 210 of vehicle 200 at that moment, processor 331 of control device 330 can predict the SOC of battery 210 when vehicle 200 arrives at charging station 300, calculate the charging period until battery 210 is fully charged at the predicted SOC, and thus understand the scheduled use of charging station 300 by vehicle 200 by the scheduled arrival time of vehicle 200 plus the calculated charging period. Thus, charging station 300 can determine the time when the next vehicle can begin use.

[0062] In the vehicle 200, the ECU 230 determines whether the guidance information has been received from the server 600 (step S211). If it is determined that the guidance information has been received (yes in step S211), the ECU 230 starts the automatic driving control of the vehicle 200 according to the guidance information (step S212). For example, the ECU 230 determines the path to the charging station 300 indicated by the location information included in the guidance information, and performs automatic driving control in a manner such that the vehicle 200 travels along the path. If the guidance information contains information indicating the path to the charging station 300, the ECU 230 performs automatic driving control in a manner such that the vehicle 200 travels along the path indicated by the information included in the guidance information.

[0063] In the server 600, the CPU 610 determines whether a guidance request from the user's vehicle 200 to the idle charging pile 300 is received through the communication unit 640 (step S621). In the vehicle 200, the guidance request is input to the ECU 230 by operating the touch panel display 250, for example. In addition, the guidance request is not limited to being received from the user's vehicle 200, but can also be received from other devices (for example, the user's portable terminal). When it is determined that the guidance request has been received (yes in step S621), the CPU 610 determines whether the position of the vehicle 200 is near any entrance of any of the multiple sites 40A and 40B where multiple charging piles 300 are set (step S622).

[0064] If the vehicle 200 is determined to be near the entrance of a site where any charging station 300 is located (yes in step S622), the CPU 610 searches for a usable charging station 300 at that site (step S623). Similar to step S613, the CPU 610 controls the communication unit 640 to transmit guidance information to the vehicle 200 for autonomously guiding the vehicle 200 to the searched charging station 300 (step S624). Upon receiving the guidance information, the vehicle 200 executes autonomous driving control as described in steps S211 and S212 above.

[0065] In the vehicle 200, if it is determined that the guidance information has not been received (No in step S211), or after step S212, the ECU 230 of the vehicle 200 determines whether the vehicle 200 has reached a specified distance from the charging pile 300 (step S213). The specified distance is, for example, an approximate distance at which the user can visually see the charging pile 300, specifically, tens of meters. In addition, here, the ECU 230 determines whether the vehicle 200 has reached a specified distance from the charging pile 300, but is not limited to this. It can also be determined whether the vehicle 200 has reached the entrance 41A, 41B of the land 40A, 40B where the charging pile 300 is set. If it is the entrance 41A, 41B of the land 40A, 40B where the charging pile 300 is set, it is considered that the charging pile 300 can be visually seen in most cases.

[0066] When it is determined that vehicle 200 has reached the predetermined distance from charging station 300 (YES in step S213 ), arrival information indicating the arrival is transmitted to server 600 (step S214 ).

[0067] In server 600, CPU 610 determines whether arrival information has been received from vehicle 200 via communication unit 640 (step S631). If arrival information has been received (yes in step S631), CPU 610 controls communication unit 640 to transmit an instruction to raise movable unit 301 to charging station 300, which is the guidance destination of vehicle 200 (step S632).

[0068] In charging station 300, processor 331 of control device 330 determines whether a lift instruction has been received from server 600 via communication device 341 and communication unit 335 (step S311). If it is determined that a lift instruction has been received (yes in step S311), processor 331 controls actuator 320 to start lift control of movable unit 301 (step S312).

[0069] In vehicle 200, ECU 230 determines whether vehicle 200 has reached the position for starting parking in the parking space of charging station 300 specified by the guidance information (step S215). If it is determined that vehicle 200 has reached the position for starting parking (step S215), ECU 230 starts automatic parking control for the parking space (step S216).

[0070] From the autonomously operated vehicle 200, the user can visually confirm that the movable portion 301 of the charging pile 300 has risen from the moment it reaches a predetermined distance from the charging pile 300. When the automated parking is complete, the movable portion 301 of the charging pile 300 is raised. The user exits the vehicle 200 and performs the charging operation as described above.

[0071] [Second embodiment] In the first embodiment, as Figure 5 As shown, the server 600 searches for available charging piles 300 within the parking lot where the charging piles 300 are installed, and guides passengers within the parking lot to the charging piles 300. In the second embodiment, the server 600 searches for available charging piles 300 within the parking lot where the charging piles 300 are installed, and guides passengers within the parking lot to the charging piles 300.

[0072] Figure 6 Flowchart 1 is a flowchart showing the flow of processing executed in the power supply system 1 according to the second embodiment until the vehicle 200 reaches the charging station 300. Figure 6 ,and Figure 5 The same step number is processed as Figure 5 The descriptions are the same, so duplicate descriptions are omitted.

[0073] In server 600 , CPU 610 controls communication unit 640 to transmit guidance information for automatically guiding vehicle 200 to the parking lot where charging station 300 is located, which is retrieved in step S612 (step S613A).

[0074] In vehicle 200, ECU 230 determines whether vehicle 200 has arrived at the location of charging station 300 designated as the guidance destination (step S213A). If vehicle 200 has arrived at the location (yes in step S213A), ECU 230 sends a guidance request to the primary charging station 300 at the location (step S214A). This guidance request is for guidance to the charging station 300 specified in the guidance information received in step S211.

[0075] The processor 331 of the control device 330 determines whether a guidance request has been received from the vehicle 200 among the primary charging stations 300 at the site (step S301). If it is determined to have been received (yes in step S301), the processor 331 searches for a charging station 300 available at the site (step S302). If the charging station 300 indicated by the guidance request is available, the charging station 300 indicated by the guidance request is selected as the search result.

[0076] The processor 331 controls the communication unit 335 to transmit guidance information for guiding the vehicle 200 to the retrieved charging station 300 in an automatic driving manner to the vehicle 200 using the communication device 341 (step S303). In the vehicle 200, when the guidance information is received, as described above, Figure 5 As explained in steps S211 and S212, automatic driving control is performed.

[0077] The processor 331 controls the communication unit 335 to send an instruction to raise the movable unit 301 to the retrieved charging station 300 using the communication device 341 (step S304). Figure 5 As described in step S311 and step S312 , the ascending control of the movable part 301 of the charging pile 300 is executed.

[0078] [Modification] (1) In the above embodiment, in the first embodiment Figure 5 The timing when the vehicle 200 reaches the predetermined distance from the charging station 300, or the ... Figure 6 In the illustrated example, actuator 320 is controlled so that movable portion 301 of charging pile 300 is displaced to the upper limit position at a predetermined timing related to parking toward a parking space located at a site for charging pile 300, such as the timing at which vehicle 200 arrives at the site for charging pile 300. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the predetermined timing may be any timing related to parking toward a power supply location of power supply equipment, such as charging pile 300. For example, it may be the timing at which vehicle 200 begins automatic parking toward the power supply location of power supply equipment, or it may be the timing at which vehicle 200 arrives at a predetermined position for each charging pile 300.

[0079] (2) As shown in the above embodiment, the guidance information for guiding the target vehicle 200 to the specified charging station in an autonomous driving manner may also be Figure 5 and Figure 6 The information of the charging pile 300 that can be used for guiding to the destination set by the user shown in step S613 may also be Figure 5 Step S624 and Figure 6 The information shown in step S303 is used to guide the user from the entrance of the site where the charging station 300 is installed to the charging station 300 that can be used.

[0080] (3) In the above embodiment, if Figure 5 As shown in step S622 and step S624, when the vehicle 200 arrives at the entrance of the charging station 300, the guidance information is sent to the vehicle 200. Figure 6 As shown in steps S213A and S303, guidance information is transmitted to vehicle 200 when vehicle 200 arrives at the location of charging station 300. However, this is not limiting, and the timing of transmitting guidance information to vehicle 200 can be any timing as long as the target vehicle 200 arrives at a predetermined location associated with power supply equipment such as charging station 300. For example, it can be the timing when vehicle 200 arrives at a location a predetermined distance from the power supply equipment, or it can be the timing when vehicle 200 arrives at a predetermined location for each power supply equipment.

[0081] (4) In the above embodiment, the electric power supplied to the vehicle 200 by the power supply equipment such as the charging station 300 may be either AC power or DC power.

[0082] (5) In the above embodiment, the power supply target of the power supply equipment such as the charging station 300 is an electric vehicle such as the vehicle 200. However, this is not limiting. The power supply target of the power supply equipment can be any vehicle that has a battery 210 and requires power, or other devices such as drones or mobile robots, and can also be a plug-in hybrid vehicle (PHV).

[0083] (6) The above-mentioned embodiments can be understood as the disclosure of the power supply system 1, the disclosure of the power supply equipment such as the charging pile 300, the server 600 or the vehicle 200, and the disclosure of the control method of the power supply system 1, the power supply equipment, the server 600 or the vehicle 200.

[0084] [Summary](1) Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the power supply system 1 includes a plurality of charging piles 300 that can be stored under the ground. Figure 1 、 Figure 2 、 Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the power supply system 1 includes a determining unit (for example, a controller) for determining power supply equipment that can be used for power supply to the target vehicle 200. Figure 5 Step S612, step S623 and Figure 6 The CPU 610 of the server 600 executes step S612 Figure 6 The processor 331 of the control device 330 of the charging pile 300 in step S302), the sending unit (for example, executing the execution unit) of sending the guidance information for guiding the target vehicle 200 to the determined charging pile 300 in an automatic driving manner to the target vehicle 200. Figure 5 The CPU 610 and the communication unit 640 of the server 600 in step S613 and step S624 execute Figure 6 The processor 331 and the communication unit 335 of the control device 330 of the charging pile 300 in step S303).

[0085] As a result, a charging station 300 capable of supplying power to the target vehicle 200 is identified, and guidance information is sent to the target vehicle 200 to guide the target vehicle 200 to the identified charging station 300 in an autonomous driving manner. As a result, the target vehicle 200 is guided to the available charging station 300 in an autonomous driving manner. As a result, the user can reach an available charging station 300 without searching for it.

[0086] (2) Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the charging pile 300 has a movable part 301, an actuator 320 that moves the movable part 301, and a control device 330 that controls the actuator 320. The movable part 301 is configured to have a power supply port (for example, a connector 311, a connector for the power supply cable 312 as a part for installing the power supply cable 312) and to be displaced within a movable range including a first position where the power supply port is stored under the ground (for example, a position in a stored state, a lower limit position P1) and a second position where the power supply port is exposed on the ground (for example, an upper limit position P2).

[0087] like Figures 3 to 6 As shown, the control device 330 of the charging pile 300 determined by the determination unit is configured to stop the target vehicle 200 at a predetermined timing (e.g., in the first embodiment) in relation to the parking space 400, 410 of the charging pile 300. Figure 5 In the second embodiment, the vehicle 200 reaches a predetermined distance from the charging station 300 in step S213 as a condition, and the charging station 300 receives the timing of the rising instruction. Figure 6 In step S213A, the vehicle 200 arrives at the site of the charging station 300 as a condition, and the charging station 300 receives the timing of the rising instruction. ) The movable part 301 is displaced to the second position, and the actuator 320 is controlled in this way.

[0088] Thus, at a predetermined timing associated with the parking of the target vehicle 200 toward the designated parking space 400, 410 of the charging pile 300, the movable portion 301 of the charging pile 300 moves to the second position where the power supply port is exposed above the ground. As a result, the user can visually confirm the upward movement of the movable portion 301 of the charging pile 300, which conveys a sense of welcome to the user and improves user satisfaction.

[0089] (3) Figure 1 、 Figure 2 as well as Figure 6 As shown, the charging pile 300 may also have a determination unit (for example, executing Figure 6 The processor 331 of the control device 330 of the charging pile 300 and the sending unit (for example, the execution unit 331 of the control device 330 of the charging pile 300) of step S302 Figure 6 The processor 331 and the communication unit 335 of the control device 330 of the charging pile 300 in step S303 are used.

[0090] (4) Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the power supply system 1 further includes a server 600 capable of communicating with the charging pile 300. Figure 1 、 Figure 2 、 Figure 5 as well as Figure 6 As shown, the server 600 may also have a determination unit (for example, an execution Figure 5 Step S612, step S623 and Figure 6 The CPU 610 of the server 600 in step S612) and the sending unit (for example, executing Figure 5 (Step S613, step S624 of the CPU 610 and the communication unit 640 of the server 600).

[0091] (5) Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the determination unit may also determine the charging station 300 that can be used for power supply near the destination of the target vehicle 200 (for example, Figure 5 and Figure 6 Step S612).

[0092] (6) Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the sending unit may also send guidance information (for example, Figure 5 Step S613, Figure 6 Step S613A).

[0093] (7) Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the sending unit sends a signal when the target vehicle reaches a predetermined position related to the charging pile 300 determined by the determining unit (for example, at Figure 5 In step S622, it is determined that the vehicle 200 has arrived at the entrance of the charging station 300. Figure 6 At the timing when it is determined in step S213A that the vehicle 200 has arrived at the site of the charging station 300), guidance information is sent to the target vehicle 200 (for example, Figure 5 Step S624, Figure 6 Step S303).

[0094] While the embodiments of the present invention have been described, they should be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is indicated by the claims, and all modifications within the meaning and scope of the claims are intended to be encompassed.

Claims

1. A power supply system comprising a plurality of power supply devices that can be stored underground, comprising: a server capable of communicating with each of the plurality of power supply devices, The server has: a determination unit that determines power supply equipment that can be used to supply power to the target vehicle; a transmitting unit configured to transmit guidance information to the target vehicle, wherein the guidance information is used to guide the target vehicle to the determined power supply equipment in an automatic driving manner; When the transmitting unit transmits guidance information to the target vehicle, the server transmits reservation information to the guided power supply equipment, the reservation information including information for determining a charging period, namely, the SOC of the battery of the target vehicle at that moment and a user's desired charging period. In the power supply facility, when the charging period desired by the user is received, it is possible to understand the scheduled use of the power supply facility by the target vehicle before the scheduled charging end time obtained by adding the received charging period to the scheduled arrival time of the target vehicle. The power supply device, upon receiving the SOC of the battery of the target vehicle at that time, can predict the SOC of the battery when the target vehicle arrives at the power supply device, calculate the charging period until the battery is fully charged at the predicted SOC, and understand the target vehicle's scheduled use of the power supply device before the scheduled charging end time, which is calculated by adding the calculated charging period to the scheduled arrival time of the target vehicle. Each of the plurality of power supply devices includes a movable portion, an actuator, and a control device. The movable portion is configured to have a power supply port and to be displaced within a movable range including a first position and a second position, wherein the first position is a position where the power supply port is stored under the ground, and the second position is a position where the power supply port is exposed above the ground. The actuator moves the movable portion, The control device controls the actuator. The control device of the power supply facility identified by the identification unit controls the actuator so as to move the movable portion to the second position at a predetermined timing before the target vehicle stops toward the power supply position of the power supply facility. In response to the target vehicle approaching a parking space near the power supply position of the power supply equipment in an autonomous manner, the movable portion starts to rise to the second position.

2. The power supply system according to claim 1, wherein: The identification unit identifies power supply facilities that can be used for power supply near a destination of the target vehicle.

3. The power supply system according to claim 2, wherein: The transmitting unit transmits the guidance information to the target vehicle at a timing when the power supply facility is identified.

4. The power supply system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The transmitting unit transmits the guidance information to the target vehicle when the target vehicle arrives at a predetermined position related to the power supply facility identified by the identifying unit.

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