Vehicle and Charging Method

Abstract

The present invention provides a vehicle and a charging method. A control device (150) that controls charging of a power storage device (130) in a vehicle (50) includes: an acquisition unit (501) that acquires a cost table showing charging cost information of respective maximum supply powers of a plurality of power supply devices (40) outside the vehicle before starting charging of the power storage device (130) using the power supply device (40) outside the vehicle; a setting unit (502) that sets a reference for selecting the maximum supply power of the power supply device; a selection unit (503) that selects one maximum supply power from the cost table according to the reference set by the setting unit; and a notification unit (504) that notifies the power supply device (40) of the maximum supply power selected by the selection unit (503).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a vehicle and a method for charging a power storage device mounted on the vehicle. Background Art

[0002] In Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2018-74673, a method for charging a power storage device mounted on a vehicle using a power supply device that charges according to the usage time is disclosed. In the charging method disclosed in Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2018-74673, the cost performance (charge amount per unit cost) is predicted, and when the cost performance is poor, it is reported to the user. Summary of the Invention

[0003] However, the larger the maximum supply power of the power supply device, the shorter the charging time. However, depending on the specifications or state of the vehicle, the vehicle may not be able to handle a large-power power supply. Therefore, it is expected that a power supply device configured to be able to change the maximum supply power will be popularized in the future. In addition, the maximum supply power is the maximum power value of the power supplied from the power supply device to the vehicle during the charging process.

[0004] However, when the maximum supply power of the power supply device increases, the power consumption of the power grid that supplies power to the power supply device temporarily increases, and the power supply-demand balance of the power grid is likely to collapse. In order to ensure both user convenience and power grid energy management, a cost system in which the charging cost changes according to the maximum supply power of the power supply device is considered. Specifically, it is considered to make adjustments as follows: the larger the maximum supply power of the power supply device, the higher the charging cost (for example, the charging rate per unit time) is increased, thereby preventing the power consumption of the power grid from increasing excessively.

[0005] In the case of adopting the cost system as described above, it is expected that the maximum supply power desired by the user will change according to the situation. However, there has not been sufficient research on selecting an appropriate maximum supply power in such a charging system.

[0006] The present disclosure has been made to solve the above problems, and an object thereof is to provide a vehicle and a charging method that can select an appropriate maximum supply power when charging using a cost system in which the charging cost changes according to the maximum supply power of the power supply device.

[0007] The vehicle according to the first aspect of the present disclosure includes a power storage device and a control device that controls the charging of the power storage device. Further, the control device includes an acquisition unit, a setting unit, a selection unit, and a notification unit as shown below.

[0008] The acquisition unit is configured to acquire a cost table showing the charging cost information of each of the multiple maximum supply powers of the power supply device before starting the charging of the energy storage device using the power supply device outside the vehicle. The setting unit is configured to set a criterion for selecting the maximum supply power of the power supply device. The selection unit is configured to select one maximum supply power from the cost table according to the criterion set by the setting unit. The notification unit is configured to notify the power supply device of the maximum supply power selected by the selection unit.

[0009] The maximum supply power is the maximum power value of the power supplied from the power supply device to the vehicle during the charging process. The charging cost information can be either information indicating the charging rate or information indicating the charging cost for one charging.

[0010] In the above vehicle, an appropriate maximum supply power is selected according to the criterion set by the setting unit. Therefore, an appropriate maximum supply power can be selected and notified to the power supply device.

[0011] The above setting unit may also be configured to set one criterion from a predetermined option according to an input from the user. In a vehicle having such a structure, the user can select the criterion. Therefore, a maximum supply power that matches the user's expectation can be selected and notified to the power supply device.

[0012] The above cost table may also show a cost system in which the higher the maximum supply power of the power supply device, the higher the charging rate. And the above predetermined options may also include: a first criterion for selecting the maximum supply power of the power supply device with the shortest charging time of the energy storage device; and a second criterion for selecting the maximum supply power of the power supply device with the cheapest charging cost of the energy storage device.

[0013] According to the above structure, the user can shorten the charging time or reduce the charging cost according to the situation. The charging rate shown in the cost table can be either the charging rate per unit time or the charging rate per unit supply power.

[0014] The above predetermined options may also further include a third criterion for selecting the maximum supply power of the power supply device with the best comprehensive evaluation of the charging time and charging cost of the energy storage device. According to such a structure, the user can select a maximum supply power that balances the charging time and charging cost.

[0015] The charging rate shown in the above cost table can also be the charging rate per unit time. The above selection unit may also be configured to predict the charging time using the cost table, and calculate the charging cost using the predicted charging time and the charging rate per unit time.

[0016] According to the above structure, it is easy to appropriately evaluate the charging time and charging cost of each maximum supply power. The selection unit may also predict that the longer the maximum supply power, the shorter the charging time.

[0017] The above power supply device may also be a common power supply device. The above setting unit may also be configured to set a reference using the position of the power supply device. In a vehicle having such a structure, the reference is automatically set according to the position of the power supply device. The common power supply device exists in various places. According to the above structure, the maximum supply power matching the position of the power supply device can be selected and notified to the power supply device.

[0018] The above power supply device may also be configured to supply DC power.

[0019] When charging the vehicle's energy storage device using an AC power supply device (AC power supply method) that supplies AC power, generally, the vehicle converts the AC power supplied from the AC power supply device into DC power and supplies the DC power to the energy storage device. In addition, in an AC power supply device, the maximum supply power is often determined by the capacity of the charging cable. On the other hand, when charging the vehicle's energy storage device using a DC power supply device (DC power supply method) that supplies DC power, there is no need for AC / DC conversion (power conversion from AC to DC) in the vehicle. Therefore, by notifying the appropriate maximum supply power from the vehicle to the DC power supply device, there is no need for power conversion in the vehicle, and the DC power supplied from the DC power supply device can be directly supplied to the vehicle's energy storage device.

[0020] The above selection unit may also be configured to, when the input power of the energy storage device is limited to be below the input upper limit value, remove the maximum supply power among the multiple maximum supply powers shown in the cost table for which the input power of the energy storage device exceeds the input upper limit value, and select one maximum supply power from at least one of the remaining maximum supply powers that have not been removed among the multiple maximum supply powers.

[0021] For example, in order to protect the energy storage device or its peripheral components, the input power of the energy storage device is sometimes limited to be below the input upper limit value. According to the above structure, the maximum supply power matching the input upper limit value of the energy storage device can be selected and notified to the power supply device.

[0022] The above acquisition unit may also be configured to send determination information for determining the power supply device to a server outside the vehicle, and request the server to send the cost table of the power supply device determined according to the determination information.

[0023] According to the above structure, the cost table of the target power supply device (i.e., the power supply device used in this charging) can be obtained from a server outside the vehicle. In addition, the above server may also be a computer that manages the information of multiple power supply devices one-dimensionally.

[0024] The above-mentioned determined information may also include an identification code for identifying the power supply device and the location of the power supply device.

[0025] According to the above structure, it is easy to determine the power supply device that becomes the object. For example, even in one country, the power supply device can be determined only by the identification code. However, from the perspective of the whole world including all countries, there may be multiple power supply devices using the same identification code. In addition, even for power supply devices of the same model, the charging cost sometimes changes according to the installation location (for example, the country where it is installed). In the above structure, by using the location of the power supply device, the power supply device can be determined more appropriately. In addition, the vehicle can also obtain the identification code from the power supply device. The identification code may be composed of at least one of numbers, symbols, and letters.

[0026] Any of the above-mentioned vehicles may also be an electric vehicle that uses the power stored in the above-mentioned energy storage device to run. In electric vehicles, in addition to BEV (battery electric vehicle) and PHEV (plug-in hybrid vehicle), it also includes FCEV (fuel cell vehicle), range extender EV, etc.

[0027] In the charging method according to the second aspect of the present disclosure, a power supply device whose charging cost varies according to the maximum supply power is used to charge the energy storage device mounted on the vehicle. And this charging method includes the following processes A to E. In process A, the vehicle sets a criterion for selecting the maximum supply power of the power supply device. In process B, before starting to charge the energy storage device using the power supply device, the vehicle obtains a cost table showing the charging cost information of each of the multiple maximum supply powers of the power supply device. In process C, the vehicle selects one maximum supply power from the cost table according to the set criterion. In process D, the vehicle notifies the selected maximum supply power to the power supply device. In process E, the power supply device charges according to the charging cost information corresponding to the notified maximum supply power in accordance with the cost table, and at the same time supplies the power for charging the energy storage device to the vehicle under the power supply conditions according to the notified maximum supply power.

[0028] Through the above charging method, when charging is carried out in a cost system where the charging cost varies according to the maximum supply power of the power supply device, an appropriate maximum supply power can also be selected in the same way as the above-mentioned vehicle.

[0029] The above and other objects, features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become clear from the following detailed description of the present invention understood in association with the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0030] Figure 1It is a diagram showing a charging system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] Figure 2 It is a diagram showing the transition of supply power when a power supply device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure supplies power with five maximum supply powers respectively.

[0032] Figure 3 It is a functional block diagram showing the components of an ECU (a control device mounted on a vehicle) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure by function.

[0033] Figure 4 It is a diagram showing a cost table of a power supply device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0034] Figure 5 It is a flowchart showing a process related to the setting of a reference executed by a setting unit according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0035] Figure 6 It is shown in Figure 5 a diagram showing an example of an input screen displayed in the process shown.

[0036] Figure 7 It is a flowchart showing a charging method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0037] Figure 8 It is a diagram for explaining a method by which a selection unit predicts a charging time and a charging cost according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0038] Figure 9 It is a diagram for explaining a method of evaluating a charging time and a charging cost in a third reference (balance mode) in an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0039] Figure 10 It is a diagram showing an example of a map for setting an input upper limit value of a power storage device.

[0040] Figure 11 It is shown in Figure 7 a diagram showing a modification example of the process shown.

[0041] Figure 12 It is shown in Figure 5 a flowchart showing a modification example of the process shown. Detailed Description of the Embodiment

[0042] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, the same or corresponding parts are denoted by the same reference numerals and their description will not be repeated.

[0043] Figure 1 It is a diagram showing the charging system according to the present embodiment. Refer toFigure 1 The charging system includes a server 30, an EVSE 40, and a vehicle 50. The vehicle 50 is equipped with a storage battery 130 for storing the power for driving. The vehicle 50 is configured to be able to drive using the power stored in the storage battery 130. The vehicle 50 according to the present embodiment is an electric vehicle (BEV) that does not have an engine (internal combustion engine).

[0044] The vehicle 50 is equipped with an electronic control unit (hereinafter referred to as "ECU (Electronic Control Unit)") 150. The ECU 150 is configured to perform charging control and discharging control of the storage battery 130. In addition, the ECU 150 is configured to control communication with the outside of the vehicle 50.

[0045] The storage battery 130 is configured to include a secondary battery such as a lithium-ion battery or a nickel-metal hydride battery. In the present embodiment, as the secondary battery, a battery module including a plurality of lithium-ion batteries is adopted. The battery module is formed by electrically connecting a plurality of secondary batteries (generally also referred to as "battery cells") to each other. In addition, other power storage devices such as an electric double layer capacitor may be adopted instead of the secondary battery. The storage battery 130 according to the present embodiment corresponds to an example of the "power storage device" according to the present disclosure.

[0046] The vehicle 50 further includes: an insertion port 110 that receives power supplied from the outside of the vehicle 50; a monitoring module 131 that monitors the state of the storage battery 130; and a charging relay 120 that is located between the storage battery 130 and the insertion port 110.

[0047] The monitoring module 131 includes various sensors that detect the state of the storage battery 130 (such as voltage, current, and temperature), and outputs the detection results to the ECU 150. The monitoring module 131 may be a BMS (Battery Management System) that has, in addition to the above sensor functions, an SOC (State Of Charge) estimation function, an SOH (State of Health) estimation function, an equalization function of battery cell voltages, a diagnosis function, and a communication function. The ECU 150 can obtain the state of the storage battery 130 (such as temperature, current, voltage, SOC, and internal resistance) based on the output of the monitoring module 131.

[0048] The insertion port 110 is configured to be able to connect to a connector 43 of a charging cable 42 of the EVSE 40 described later. The charging relay 120 is configured to switch the connection / cutoff of the power path from the insertion port 110 to the storage battery 130.

[0049] EVSE40 is an example of an EVSE (Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment). The EVSE is a power supply device outside the vehicle. EVSE40 is, for example, a public EVSE that can be used by an unspecified number of users. EVSE40 is configured to be electrically connectable to an external power source PG. The external power source PG may also be a power grid provided by an electric power company. The external power source PG may be a large-scale power grid equipped as infrastructure or a microgrid. The external power source PG supplies AC power to EVSE40.

[0050] EVSE40 is a DC power supply device (DC power supply device in DC mode) that provides DC power. EVSE40 includes a control device 41, a charging cable 42, a power conversion circuit 421, a monitoring module 422 that monitors the state of the power conversion circuit 421, and a touch panel display 44. The charging cable 42 is connected to the main body of EVSE40. The charging cable 42 may also be attachable and detachable with respect to the main body of EVSE40. The charging cable 42 has a connector 43 at the front end and includes a power line and a communication line inside.

[0051] The control device 41 may also be a computer. The control device 41 is configured to include a processor and controls the power conversion circuit 421 and the touch panel display 44. The touch panel display 44 outputs information (including instructions) input by the user to the control device 41 or displays information according to instructions from the control device 41.

[0052] The power conversion circuit 421 converts the AC power supplied from the external power source PG into DC power and outputs it to the connector 43. The power conversion circuit 421 includes, for example, an inverter. The power conversion circuit 421 may also further include at least one of a rectifier circuit, a power factor correction (Power Factor Correction) circuit, an insulation circuit, a transformer (such as an isolation transformer), and a filter circuit. The power conversion circuit 421 is controlled by the control device 41.

[0053] The monitoring module 422 includes various sensors that detect the state of the power conversion circuit 421 and outputs the detection results to the control device 41. In the present embodiment, the monitoring module 422 is configured to detect the voltage and current input to the power conversion circuit 421 and the voltage and current output from the power conversion circuit 421. The monitoring module 422 is configured to be able to detect the supply power of EVSE40.

[0054] The vehicle 50 is provided with an insertion port 110 for contact charging. By connecting (inserting) the connector 43 of the charging cable 42 connected to the main body of the EVSE 40 to the insertion port 110 of the vehicle 50, the vehicle 50 is in an inserted state. In the inserted state, communication between the vehicle 50 and the EVSE 40 can be performed, and power can be exchanged between the EVSE 40 and the vehicle 50. In the vehicle 50 in the inserted state, external charging can be performed (that is, the battery 130 can be charged using the power supplied from the EVSE 40). Power for external charging is supplied from the EVSE 40 to the insertion port 110 via the charging cable 42. When external charging is executed, the charging relay 120 is in a closed state (connected state), and when external charging is not executed, the charging relay 120 is in an open state (cut-off state).

[0055] The communication method between the ECU 150 (vehicle 50) and the control device 41 (EVSE 40) is arbitrary. For example, it can be CAN (Controller Area Network), or it can be PLC. In addition, Figure 1 only the insertion port 110 corresponding to the power supply method of the EVSE 40 is shown, but the vehicle 50 may be provided with a plurality of insertion ports in order to be able to cope with multiple power supply methods (for example, AC method and DC method).

[0056] In the present embodiment, the EVSE 40 is configured to be able to change the maximum supply power in five stages. That is, the EVSE 40 is configured to be able to supply power with five maximum supply powers. Figure 2 is a diagram showing the transition of the supply power when the EVSE 40 supplies power with five maximum supply powers respectively.

[0057] Referring to Figure 1 and Figure 2 , the lines L1, L2, L3, L4, and L5 respectively represent the transition of the supply power when the EVSE 40 supplies power under the conditions of the maximum supply powers of 150 kW, 125 kW, 100 kW, 75 kW, and 50 kW. Figure 2 The supply power shown is the power supplied by the EVSE 40, which is, for example, the power supplied from the EVSE 40 to the vehicle 50. The maximum supply power is, for example, the maximum value of the power supplied from the EVSE 40 to the vehicle 50 during the charging process of the battery 130. As shown by the lines L1 to L5, the supply power of the EVSE 40 rises at the start of charging, is maintained at the maximum supply power when it reaches the maximum supply power, and gradually decreases from the maximum supply power when approaching the end of charging. However, the transition of the supply power of the EVSE 40 is not limited to Figure 2 the example shown.

[0058] Referring again to Figure 1, the ECU 150 is configured to include a processor 151, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 152, a storage device 153, and a timer 154. The ECU 150 can also be a computer. The processor 151 can also be a CPU (Central Processing Unit). The RAM 152 functions as a working memory for temporarily storing data processed by the processor 151. The storage device 153 is configured to be able to store the stored information. The storage device 153 includes, for example, a ROM (Read Only Memory) and a rewritable non-volatile memory. In the storage device 153, in addition to programs, information used in the programs (such as maps, mathematical formulas, and various parameters) is also stored. In the present embodiment, by the processor 151 executing the program stored in the storage device 153, various controls in the ECU 150 are executed. However, various controls in the ECU 150 are not limited to being executed by software, but can also be executed by dedicated hardware (electronic circuits). In addition, the number of processors included in the ECU 150 is arbitrary, and processors can also be prepared for each predetermined control.

[0059] The vehicle 50 further includes a driving unit 140, an input device 161, an instrument panel 162, a navigation system (hereinafter referred to as "NAVI") 170, and a communication device 180.

[0060] The driving unit 140 is configured to include a PCU (Power Control Unit, not shown) and an MG (Motor Generator), and drives the vehicle 50 using the electric power stored in the battery 130. The PCU is configured to include, for example, an inverter, a converter, and a relay (hereinafter referred to as "SMR (System Main Relay)") (all not shown). The PCU is controlled by the ECU 150. The MG is, for example, a three-phase AC motor generator. The MG is configured to be driven by the PCU to rotate the drive wheels of the vehicle 50. The PCU drives the MG using the electric power supplied from the battery 130. In addition, the MG is configured to perform regenerative power generation and supply the generated electric power to the battery 130. The SMR is configured to switch the connection / cutoff of the power path from the battery 130 to the MG. The SMR is in a closed state (connected state) when the vehicle 50 is running.

[0061] The input device 161 is a device that accepts input from the user. The input device 161 is operated by the user and outputs a signal corresponding to the user's operation to the ECU 150. Examples of the input device 161 include various switches, various indicating devices, keyboards, and touch panels. The input device 161 may also include a smart speaker that accepts voice input.

[0062] The instrument panel 162 is configured to display information related to the vehicle 50. The instrument panel 162 displays, for example, various information related to the vehicle 50 measured by various sensors mounted on the vehicle 50. The information displayed on the instrument panel 162 may also include at least one of the outside air temperature, the traveling speed of the vehicle 50, the SOC of the battery 130, the electricity cost of the vehicle 50, and the traveling distance of the vehicle 50. The instrument panel 162 may also be a touch panel display. The instrument panel 162 is controlled by the ECU 150. The ECU 150 may also cause a message or warning light for the user to be displayed on the instrument panel 162 when a predetermined condition is satisfied.

[0063] The NAVI 170 is configured to include a processor, a storage device, a touch panel display, and a GPS (Global Positioning System) module (all not shown). The storage device stores map information. The touch panel display accepts input from the user or displays a map and other information. The GPS module is configured to receive signals from GPS satellites (hereinafter referred to as "GPS signals"). The NAVI 170 can use the GPS signals to determine the position of the vehicle 50. The NAVI 170 is configured to perform a route search for finding a driving route (e.g., the shortest route) from the current position of the vehicle 50 to the destination based on the input from the user and display the driving route found by the route search on the map.

[0064] The communication device 180 is configured to include various communication I / Fs (interfaces). The communication device 180 may also include a DCM (Data Communication Module). The communication device 180 may also include a communication I / F corresponding to 5G (the 5th generation mobile communication system). The ECU 150 is configured to perform wireless communication with a communication device outside the vehicle via the communication device 180.

[0065] The communication device 180 mounted on the vehicle 50 is configured to be able to perform wireless communication with the portable terminal 80 and the server 30, respectively. The server 30 includes a control device 31 and a communication device 32. The control device 31 may also be a computer. The communication device 32 includes various communication I / Fs. The control device 31 is configured to include a processor, perform predetermined information processing, and communicate with the outside via the communication device 32.

[0066] The server 30 provides cloud services. The server 30 is configured to manage information of a plurality of EVSEs one-dimensionally. The cloud CL provided by the server 30 holds information (including cost information) of each EVSE. The server 30 can extract information (such as a cost table described later) of the target EVSE from various information in the cloud CL by performing a search using the identification code and location information of the target EVSE. The server 30 is an example of the "server outside the vehicle" related to the present disclosure.

[0067] The ECU 150 can control the portable terminal 80 through wireless communication to cause the portable terminal 80 to make a report to the user. The communication between the communication device 180 and the portable terminal 80 may also be short-range communication such as Bluetooth (registered trademark in Japan), for example, direct communication within the vehicle and in the vicinity of the vehicle.

[0068] Figure 3 is a functional block diagram showing the constituent elements of the ECU 150 by function. Refer to Figure 3 , the ECU 150 includes an acquisition unit 501, a setting unit 502, a selection unit 503, and a notification unit 504. In the present embodiment, the above-described respective parts are embodied by the processor 151 shown in Figure 1 and a program executed by the processor 151. However, it is not limited thereto, and these respective parts may also be embodied by dedicated hardware (electronic circuit). The ECU 150 is an example of the "control device" related to the present disclosure.

[0069] The acquisition unit 501 is configured to acquire a cost table showing charging cost information of the maximum supply power of each of the power supply devices (for example, EVSE 40) before starting the charging of the battery 130 by the power supply device. As will be described in detail later, the acquisition unit 501 according to the present embodiment acquires the cost table from the Figure 1 server 30 shown in Figure 4 is a diagram showing an example of the cost table. Figure 4 The cost table shown in

[0070] Refer to Figure 4 , this cost table shows a cost system in which the higher the maximum supply power, the higher the charging rate. The charging rate is equivalent to the unit price of the charging cost in usage-based pricing. In this example, as a charging method, a usage-based charging method that charges according to the charging time is adopted. Figure 4 The charging rate shown in Figure 4 is an example of the "charging cost information" related to the present disclosure.

[0071] InFigure 4 In the shown cost table, the charging rates are respectively shown for the five maximum supply powers (50 kW, 75 kW, 100 kW, 125 kW, and 150 kW) that can be switched for the EVSE40. Specifically, when power supply is performed under the condition of a maximum supply power of 50 kW or 75 kW, a charging rate of $0.25 per minute is adopted. When power supply is performed under the condition of a maximum supply power of 100 kW or 125 kW, a charging rate of $0.69 per minute is adopted. When power supply is performed under the condition of a maximum supply power of 150 kW, a charging rate of $0.99 per minute is adopted. Thus, Figure 4 the shown cost table shows the charging rates (charging cost information) for each maximum supply power of the EVSE40.

[0072] Referring again to Figure 3 , the setting unit 502 is configured to set a reference for selecting the maximum supply power (hereinafter also referred to as the "selection reference"). Specifically, the setting unit 502 is configured to select one selection reference from predetermined options according to an input from the user. In the present embodiment, the setting unit 502 performs the Figure 5 processing described below.

[0073] Figure 5 is a flowchart showing the processing related to the setting of the selection reference. For example, the processing shown in this flowchart is started according to a request from the user. The user can operate, for example, the input device 161 or the portable terminal 80 to request the ECU150 to start the processing. Hereinafter, each step in the flowchart will be abbreviated as "S".

[0074] Referring to Figure 3 and Figure 5 , in S11, the setting unit 502 causes an input screen to be displayed on a predetermined display device. The input screen is a screen for accepting an input from the user. In S12, the setting unit 502 determines whether the user has made an input to the input screen. Then, S11 and S12 are repeated until the user makes an input to the input screen. In the present embodiment, the Figure 1 shown instrument panel 162 (for example, a touch panel display) is set as the predetermined display device. However, it is not limited thereto, and the predetermined display device may also be the NAVI170 or the portable terminal 80.

[0075] Figure 6 is a diagram showing an example of the input screen displayed in Figure 5 S11. Referring to Figure 6, the input screen includes a "time priority mode" button M11, a "cost priority mode" button M12, and a "balance mode" button M13. The user can select the mode corresponding to each button (cost priority mode / time priority mode / balance mode) through button operations. When the user operates a certain button, in Figure 5 , it is determined as "yes" in S12 of

[0076] , and the process proceeds to S13. In the present embodiment, as the button for the user to select the mode, a virtual button displayed on the touch panel display is adopted, but a physical button can also be adopted instead of the virtual button. Figure 3 and Figure 5 , in S13, the setting unit 502 sets a selection criterion corresponding to the mode selected by the user for the selection unit 503. For example, when the user operates the "time priority mode" button M11 for the input screen shown in Figure 6 , the first criterion is set for the selection unit 503. The first criterion determines the maximum supply power with the shortest charging time. The charging time is the time from the start of charging to the completion of charging. In addition, when the user operates the "cost priority mode" button M12 for the input screen shown in Figure 6 , the second criterion is set for the selection unit 503. The second criterion determines the maximum supply power with the cheapest charging cost. The charging cost is the cost (amount) charged for one charging (the charging to be targeted). In addition, when the user operates the "balance mode" button M13 for the input screen shown in Figure 6 , the third criterion is set for the selection unit 503. The third criterion determines the maximum supply power with the best comprehensive evaluation of the charging time and the charging cost. The evaluation methods for the charging time and the charging cost will be described later.

[0077] As described above, in the present embodiment, the setting unit 502 sets one selection criterion from the first to the third criteria according to the input from the user. In the present embodiment, the user makes an input related to the setting of the selection criterion through the dashboard 162 (touch panel display). However, it is not limited thereto, and the user can also operate the input device 161, NAVI 170, or the portable terminal 80 instead of the dashboard 162 to make the above input.

[0078] , referring again to Figure 3 , the selection unit 503 selects one maximum supply power from the cost table (specifically, the cost table obtained by the acquisition unit 501) according to the selection criterion (any of the above first to third criteria) set by the setting unit 502. Then, the notification unit 504 notifies the power supply device (that is, the power supply device used in the current charging) of the maximum supply power selected by the selection unit 503.

[0079] Figure 7 is a flowchart showing the processes executed in the vehicle 50 and the EVSE 40 during charging. The processes shown in this flowchart start, for example, when the vehicle 50 and the EVSE 40 are connected via the charging cable 42 and the vehicle 50 is in the plugged-in state.

[0080] Referring to Figure 1 and Figure 3 and Figure 7 , in S31, the control device 41 of the EVSE 40 determines whether a predetermined start operation has been performed by the user. In the present embodiment, the operation of the user pressing the start switch provided in the EVSE 40 is set as the predetermined start operation. The start switch may be a virtual button displayed on the touch panel display 44 or a physical button.

[0081] When a predetermined start operation has been performed by the user (Yes in S31), the control device 41 of the EVSE 40 starts communicating with the vehicle 50 in S32. Correspondingly, the ECU 150 of the vehicle 50 also starts communicating with the EVSE 40 in S21. Thereby, the communication between the control device 41 (EVSE 40) and the ECU 150 (vehicle 50) is started.

[0082] Next, the control device 41 sends the identification information of the EVSE 40 to the ECU 150 in S33. The control device 41 may send the identification information according to a request from the ECU 150 or may send the identification information spontaneously. The identification information of the EVSE 40 is information for identifying the EVSE 40. In the present embodiment, the control device 41 sends the identification code of the EVSE 40 as the identification information in S33. The identification code of the EVSE 40 may also be the identification number of the EVSE 40.

[0083] The ECU 150 receives the above-mentioned identification code sent by the EVSE 40 in S22. In addition, the ECU 150 uses the position detection function of the NAVI 170 to detect the position of the vehicle 50 (for example, latitude and longitude). Since the vehicle 50 is connected to the EVSE 40, the position of the vehicle 50 can be regarded as the position of the EVSE 40. The position of the EVSE 40 obtained in this way also corresponds to the identification information of the EVSE 40. In the present embodiment, the ECU 150 obtains the position information of the EVSE 40 from the NAVI 170, but the ECU 150 may also obtain the position information of the EVSE 40 from the EVSE 40 together with the identification code of the EVSE 40.

[0084] Next, the acquisition unit 501 of the ECU 150 ( Figure 3)In S23, the above determination information is sent to the server 30, and a request is sent to the server 30 to send a cost table of the power supply device determined according to the determination information. In the present embodiment, the acquisition unit 501 queries the server 30 for the cost table of the EVSE 40 based on the determination information of the EVSE 40 (i.e., the identification code and the location information). The server 30, according to the request from the acquisition unit 501 (the vehicle 50), extracts the cost table of the EVSE 40 from various information in the cloud CL based on the determination information of the EVSE 40, and sends the cost table of the EVSE 40 to the vehicle 50. The acquisition unit 501 receives the cost table of the EVSE 40 sent from the server 30. In this way, when the vehicle 50 uses the EVSE 40 to charge the battery 130, before the start of charging, the acquisition unit 501 acquires the cost table of the EVSE 40 (refer to Figure 4 ).

[0085] Next, the selection unit 503 of the ECU 150 ( Figure 3 ) in S24 selects one maximum supply power from the maximum supply powers (50 kW, 75 kW, 100 kW, 125 kW, and 150 kW) shown in the cost table of the EVSE 40 in accordance with the selection criterion set by the setting unit 502 (refer to Figure 5 ). In the present embodiment, the selection unit 503 uses the cost table to predict the charging time, and calculates the charging cost using the predicted charging time and the charging rate per unit time corresponding to the maximum supply power. Figure 8 FIG. is an example showing the charging time and the charging cost predicted by the selection unit 503. In Figure 8 , the line graph represents the charging cost, and the bar graph represents the charging time.

[0086] Refer to Figure 4 and Figure 8 , the selection unit 503 predicts that the larger the maximum supply power, the shorter the charging time. In the example shown in Figure 8 , the charging times for the cases where the maximum supply powers are 50 kW, 75 kW, 100 kW, 125 kW, and 150 kW are predicted to be 55 minutes, 38 minutes, 31 minutes, 28 minutes, and 26 minutes, respectively. Then, the selection unit 503 calculates the charging cost by multiplying the predicted charging time by the charging rate shown in the cost table (refer to Figure 4 ). For example, according to Figure 4In the shown cost table, when the maximum supply power is 100 kW, a charging rate of $0.69 per minute is adopted. Therefore, according to the formula "charging cost = 31 minutes × $0.69 / minute", the charging cost in the case where the maximum supply power is 100 kW is calculated to be $21. Similarly, the charging costs in the cases where the maximum supply power is 50 kW, 75 kW, 125 kW, and 150 kW are calculated to be $14, $10, $19, and $26 respectively.

[0087] When the selection criterion set by the setting unit 502 is the first criterion (time priority mode), the selection unit 503 Figure 7 selects 150 kW with the shortest charging time as the maximum supply power in S24 of Figure 7 . When the selection criterion set by the setting unit 502 is the second criterion (cost priority mode), the selection unit 503

[0088] Figure 9 selects 75 kW with the cheapest charging cost as the maximum supply power in S24 of Figure 9 . In addition, when the selection criterion set by the setting unit 502 is the third criterion (balance mode), the selection unit 503 comprehensively evaluates the charging time and charging cost of each maximum supply power by, for example, the method described below. Figure 9 is a diagram for explaining the evaluation method of the charging time and charging cost under the third criterion (balance mode). Referring to Figure 7 , the selection unit 503 sets 1 minute as 1 point and converts the charging time into an evaluation value, and sets $1 as 1 point and converts the charging cost into an evaluation value. Then, by adding the evaluation value of the charging time and the evaluation value of the charging cost, the comprehensive evaluation value of each maximum supply power is obtained. As

[0089] shown again, the comprehensive evaluation values (points) of the maximum supply powers of 50 kW, 75 kW, 100 kW, 125 kW, and 150 kW are calculated to be 69, 48, 52, 47, and 52 respectively. In this evaluation method, the smaller the point (pt), the better the evaluation. Therefore, when the selection criterion set by the setting unit 502 is the third criterion (balance mode), the selection unit 503 Figure 1 selects 125 kW with the best comprehensive evaluation of the charging time and charging cost as the maximum supply power in S24 of Figure 3 and Figure 7 . Figure 3 In S25, the notification unit 504 ( ) of the ECU 150 notifies the control device 41 (EVSE 40) of the maximum supply power selected by the selection unit 503 in the above S24. Then, the control device 41 receives the above maximum supply power sent by the ECU 150 in S34.

[0090] Next, in S35, the control device 41 of the EVSE 40 charges according to the charging rate corresponding to the maximum supply power received in S34 in accordance with the charge table of the EVSE 40 ( Figure 4 ), and supplies the power for charging the storage battery 130 to the vehicle 50 under the power supply conditions in accordance with the maximum supply power received in S34. The control device 41 controls the power conversion circuit 421 to increase the supply power until it reaches the maximum supply power received in S34 (refer to Figure 2 ). Then, in S36, the control device 41 determines whether to end the power supply. The control device 41 continues the power supply and charging (S35) until it determines "Yes" (power supply ended) in S36. The control device 41 determines "Yes" in S36 when it receives a notification of charging completion from the ECU 150 (vehicle 50).

[0091] On the other hand, in S26, the ECU 150 of the vehicle 50 closes the charging relay 120 and performs external charging of the storage battery 130 using the power supplied from the EVSE 40 (DC power in this embodiment). Then, in S27, the ECU 150 determines whether the charging is completed. The ECU 150 continues the external charging (S26) until it determines "Yes" (charging completed) in S27. The ECU 150 determines "Yes" in S27 when the SOC (State Of Charge) of the storage battery 130 becomes equal to or higher than a predetermined SOC value (for example, the SOC value indicating full charge). In this embodiment, the external charging continues until the storage battery 130 is fully charged. During the charging process, the control device 41 (EVSE 40) controls the supply power according to the SOC of the storage battery 130 while communicating with the ECU 150 (vehicle 50) (refer to Figure 2 ).

[0092] When it is determined that the charging of the storage battery 130 is completed (Yes in S27), in S28, the ECU 150 notifies the control device 41 of the charging completion and opens the charging relay 120. Thereby, the charging of the storage battery 130 ends.

[0093] In addition, when the control device 41 of the EVSE 40 receives a notification of charging completion from the ECU 150, it determines "Yes" in S36 and advances the process to S37. In S37, the control device 41 controls the power conversion circuit 421 to stop the power supply to the vehicle 50. Thereby, the power supply by the EVSE 40 ends. Further, after the power supply ends, the control device 41 requests the user of the vehicle 50 for the cost of this charging (power supply) (i.e., the charging cost charged in S35). The control device 41 may also notify at least one of the ECU 150 and the portable terminal 80 of the request for the charging cost.

[0094] As described above, in the charging method according to the present embodiment, the EVSE 40 (refer to Figure 4 ) in which the charging cost varies according to the maximum supply power is used to charge the power storage device (battery 130) mounted on the vehicle 50. And, the charging method according to the present embodiment includes Figure 5 the processes shown in Figure 7 and Figure 5 the processes shown in Figure 7 . In the process shown in Figure 4 , the vehicle 50 sets a reference (selection reference) for selecting the maximum supply power. In S23 of Figure 7 , before starting the charging of the battery 130 using the EVSE 40, the vehicle 50 acquires a cost table ( Figure 4 ) showing the charging rates (charging cost information) for each maximum supply power of the EVSE 40. In S24 of Figure 7 , the vehicle 50 selects one maximum supply power from the above cost table according to the set selection reference. In S25 of Figure 7 , the vehicle 50 notifies the selected maximum supply power to the EVSE 40. In S35 of Figure 7 , the EVSE 40 charges according to the charging rate (charging cost information) corresponding to the notified maximum supply power in accordance with the above cost table, and at the same time supplies the power for charging the battery 130 to the vehicle 50 under the power supply conditions of the notified maximum supply power.

[0095] According to the above charging method, when charging is performed with a cost system in which the charging cost varies according to the maximum supply power of the power supply device, an appropriate maximum supply power can be selected. And, the vehicle 50 can receive power supply with an appropriate maximum supply power to charge the battery 130.

[0096] The selection unit 503 may also be configured to, when the input power of the storage battery 130 is limited to be equal to or lower than the input upper limit value, remove the maximum supply power among the maximum supply powers shown in the cost table, where the input power of the storage battery 130 exceeds the input upper limit value, and select one maximum supply power from the remaining maximum supply powers. For example, the ECU 150 may also set the input upper limit value of the storage battery 130 according to a predetermined map, and limit the input power of the storage battery 130 to be equal to or lower than the set input upper limit value. Figure 10 FIG. is an example of a map for setting the input upper limit value of the storage battery 130. Refer to Figure 10 , in this map, the input upper limit value of the storage battery 130 varies according to the temperature of the storage battery 130. The input upper limit value represents the power that can be input to the storage battery 130 (i.e., the maximum value of the input power). During the driving of the vehicle 50, the ECU 150 controls the driving unit 140, for example, to prevent power exceeding the input upper limit value from being input to the storage battery 130. For example, the input upper limit value of the storage battery 130 is set to protect the storage battery 130 or its peripheral components.

[0097] Figure 11 FIG. shows Figure 7 a modification example of the process shown in. Instead of Figure 7 S24, S24A and S24B shown in Figure 11 may be adopted. Refer to Figure 1 and Figure 3 and Figure 11 , in S24A, the selection unit 503 of the ECU 150 removes the maximum supply power among the maximum supply powers shown in the cost table of the EVSE 40, where the input power of the storage battery 130 exceeds the input upper limit value. For example, when it is assumed that 150 kW of power is supplied to the vehicle 50 from the EVSE 40 and the input power of the storage battery 130 exceeds the input upper limit value, the selection unit 503 removes 150 kW from the options of the maximum supply power.

[0098] Then, after the process of S24A, the selection unit 503 selects one maximum supply power from the remaining options of the maximum supply power in S24B. For example, when 150 kW is removed in S24A, the selection unit 503 selects one maximum supply power from 50 kW, 75 kW, 100 kW, and 125 kW in S24B. In this case, 75 kW is selected in the second criterion (cost priority mode), and 125 kW is selected in each of the first criterion (time priority mode) and the third criterion (balance mode).

[0099] According to the selection unit 503 according to the above modification example, it is possible to select the maximum supply power that matches the input upper limit value of the storage battery 130 and notify the EVSE 40.

[0100] In the above-described embodiment, the first to third criteria are adopted. However, the options for selecting the criteria can be appropriately changed. For example, any two of the first to third criteria can be selected.

[0101] In addition, the evaluation methods for the charging time and charging cost in the third criterion are not limited to Figure 9 the method shown and can be appropriately changed. For example, the selection unit 503 can convert the charging time into an evaluation value by multiplying the charging time by a coefficient k1, and convert the charging cost into an evaluation value by multiplying the charging cost by a coefficient k2. Also, the comprehensive evaluation value of each maximum supply power can be obtained by adding the evaluation value of the charging time and the evaluation value of the charging cost. The selection unit 503 can also set the coefficients k1 and k2 according to an input from the user. For example, when the user desires a time-priority-biased balance mode, the selection unit 503 can set the coefficient k1 to 1.0 and the coefficient k2 to less than 1.0 (e.g., 0.5). Thus, compared to the above balance mode (k1 = 1.0, k2 = 1.0), it is easier to select the maximum supply power with a short charging time. In addition, when the user desires a cost-priority-biased balance mode, the selection unit 503 can set the coefficient k1 to less than 1.0 (e.g., 0.5) and the coefficient k2 to 1.0. Thus, compared to the above balance mode (k1 = 1.0, k2 = 1.0), it is easier to select the maximum supply power with a low charging cost.

[0102] Can be appropriately changed Figure 5 the execution timing of the process shown. For example, the process shown can also be started when the vehicle 50 becomes in an inserted state. Figure 5 The process shown can also be executed Figure 7 before S21 of Figure 5 the process shown.

[0103] In the above-described embodiment, the setting unit 502 is configured to set the selected criteria according to an input from the user. However, it is not limited thereto, and the setting unit 502 can also be configured to set the selected criteria using the position of the power supply device. The setting unit 502 can also execute the process described below instead of Figure 5 the process shown. Figure 12 the process shown.

[0104] Figure 12 is a flowchart showing a modified example of Figure 5 the process shown. For example, when the vehicle 50 and the EVSE 40 are connected via the charging cable 42 and the vehicle 50 becomes in an inserted state, the process shown in this flowchart is started. The process shown can also be executed before S21 of Figure 7 the process shown. Figure 12 the process shown.

[0105] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 3 and Figure 12 , in S51, the setting unit 502 acquires the position of the EVSE 40. The acquisition method may also be the same as that of Figure 7 S22 above. In the following S52, the setting unit 502 determines whether the EVSE 40 is close to the user's own residence. For example, if the position of the EVSE 40 is within a predetermined distance from the user's own residence, the setting unit 502 determines that the EVSE 40 is close to the user's own residence ( "Yes" in S52), and if the position of the EVSE 40 is not within a predetermined distance from the user's own residence, the setting unit 502 determines that the EVSE 40 is not close to the user's own residence ( "No" in S52). The setting unit 502 may also cooperate with the NAVI 170 to make the determination in S52.

[0106] When the EVSE 40 is close to the user's own residence ( "Yes" in S52), the setting unit 502 sets the second criterion for the selection unit 503 in S53. Thus, in Figure 7 S24, it is easy to select the maximum supply power with a cheap charging cost. When the EVSE 40 is not close to the user's own residence ( "No" in S52), the setting unit 502 sets the first criterion for the selection unit 503 in S54. Thus, in Figure 7 S24, it is easy to select the maximum supply power with a short charging time.

[0107] According to the setting unit 502 according to the above modification example, the vehicle 50 can select the maximum supply power matching the position of the power supply device and notify the power supply device.

[0108] The setting unit 502 may also be configured to use the position of the power supply device to predict the number of users of the power supply device, set the first criterion (time priority mode) when predicting that the number of users of the power supply device is large, and set the second criterion (cost priority mode) when predicting that the number of users of the power supply device is small. For example, when the position of the power supply device is within the foundation of a commercial facility, the setting unit 502 may predict that the number of users of the power supply device is large. In addition, the setting unit 502 may predict that the number of users of the power supply device is small if the position of the power supply device is within a predetermined range, and predict that the number of users of the power supply device is large if the position of the power supply device is outside the predetermined range. The user may also set the area with a small number of users of the power supply device as the above-mentioned predetermined range. In addition, the area with a small number of users of the power supply device may be set as the above-mentioned predetermined range by machine learning using AI (artificial intelligence) and big data.

[0109] In the above-described embodiment, the EVSE 40 is configured to be able to change the maximum supply power in five stages. However, it is not limited thereto, and the method of changing the maximum supply power can be appropriately changed. For example, the EVSE 40 may also be configured to be able to change the maximum supply power in a more detailed manner. For example, the EVSE 40 may also be configured to be able to change the maximum supply power in increments of every 10 W.

[0110] The structure of the power supply device is not limited to Figure 1 the structure shown. For example, a disconnector for switching the presence or absence of power supply may be provided between the external power supply PG and the power conversion circuit 421. In addition, the power supply device is not limited to a DC power supply device, and may also be an AC power supply device that performs HLC (high layer compatibility) communication.

[0111] The structure of the vehicle is not limited to Figure 1 the structure shown. For example, the vehicle may also be configured for wireless charging. The vehicle is not limited to a BEV, and may also be a PHEV. The vehicle is not limited to a passenger car, and may also be a bus or a truck. The vehicle may also be configured to be able to perform autonomous driving, and may also have a flight function. The vehicle may also be a vehicle capable of unmanned driving (such as an automated guided vehicle or an agricultural machine).

[0112] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described, it should be understood that the embodiments disclosed this time are illustrative only and not restrictive in all respects. The scope of the present invention is shown by the claims, and is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope equivalent to the claims.

Claims

1. A vehicle, comprising: a power storage device; and a control device configured to perform charge control of the power storage device, wherein the control device includes: an acquisition unit configured to acquire a cost table showing charge cost information for each of a plurality of maximum supply powers of the power supply device before starting charging of the power storage device using a power supply device outside the vehicle; a setting unit configured to set a criterion for selecting the maximum supply power of the power supply device; a selection unit configured to select one maximum supply power from the cost table in accordance with the criterion set by the setting unit; and a notification unit configured to notify the power supply device of the maximum supply power selected by the selection unit, the setting unit is configured to set one of the criteria from a predetermined option according to an input from a user, the cost table shows a cost system in which the higher the maximum supply power of the power supply device, the higher the charging rate, the predetermined options include: a first criterion for selecting the maximum supply power of the power supply device with the shortest charging time of the power storage device; a second criterion for selecting the maximum supply power of the power supply device with the cheapest charging cost of the power storage device; and a third criterion for selecting the maximum supply power of the power supply device with the best comprehensive evaluation of the charging time and charging cost of the power storage device, in a case where the third criterion is set from the predetermined options, the selection unit converts the charging time into a first evaluation value by multiplying the charging time of the power storage device by a first coefficient, converts the charging cost into a second evaluation value by multiplying the charging cost of the power storage device by a second coefficient, and obtains a comprehensive evaluation value representing the comprehensive evaluation of the charging time and charging cost of the power storage device by adding the first evaluation value and the second evaluation value, the third criterion includes a balance mode biased towards time priority and a balance mode biased towards cost priority. In a case where the user selects the balance mode biased towards time priority, the selection unit sets the first coefficient to 1.0 and the second coefficient to less than 1.

0. In a case where the user selects the balance mode biased towards cost priority, the selection unit sets the first coefficient to less than 1.0 and the second coefficient to 1.

0.

2. The vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the charging rate shown in the cost table is a charging rate per unit time, the selection unit is configured to predict the charging time using the cost table, and calculate the charging cost using the predicted charging time and the charging rate per unit time.

3. The vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the power supply device is a public power supply device, the setting unit is configured to set the criterion using the location of the power supply device.

4. The vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the power supply device is configured to supply DC power.

5. The vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein The selection unit is configured to, when the input power of the power storage device is limited to be equal to or lower than the input upper limit value, remove the maximum supply power among the plurality of maximum supply powers shown in the cost table, where the input power of the power storage device exceeds the input upper limit value, and select one maximum supply power from at least one of the plurality of maximum supply powers that has not been removed.

6. The vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the acquisition unit is configured to send determination information for determining the power supply device to a server outside the vehicle, and request the server to send the cost table of the power supply device determined according to the determination information.

7. The vehicle according to claim 6, wherein the determination information includes an identification code for identifying the power supply device and the location of the power supply device.

8. A charging method is a method of charging a power storage device mounted on a vehicle using a power supply device whose charging cost varies according to the maximum supply power, including: the vehicle sets a criterion for selecting the maximum supply power of the power supply device; before starting charging of the power storage device using the power supply device, the vehicle acquires a cost table showing the charging cost information of each of the plurality of maximum supply powers of the power supply device; the vehicle selects one maximum supply power from the cost table according to the set criterion; the vehicle notifies the selected maximum supply power to the power supply device; and the power supply device charges according to the charging cost information corresponding to the notified maximum supply power according to the cost table, and supplies power for charging the power storage device to the vehicle under the power supply condition according to the notified maximum supply power, the vehicle sets one of the criteria from predetermined options according to an input from a user, the cost table shows a cost system in which the higher the maximum supply power of the power supply device, the higher the charging rate, the predetermined options include: a first criterion, selecting the maximum supply power of the power supply device with the shortest charging time of the power storage device; a second criterion, selecting the maximum supply power of the power supply device with the cheapest charging cost of the power storage device; and a third criterion, selecting the maximum supply power of the power supply device with the best comprehensive evaluation of the charging time and charging cost of the power storage device, when the third criterion is set from the predetermined options, the vehicle converts the charging time of the power storage device into a first evaluation value by multiplying the charging time by a first coefficient, converts the charging cost of the power storage device into a second evaluation value by multiplying the charging cost by a second coefficient, and obtains a comprehensive evaluation value representing the comprehensive evaluation of the charging time and charging cost of the power storage device by adding the first evaluation value and the second evaluation value. The third reference includes a balance mode biased towards time priority and a balance mode biased towards cost priority. When the user selects the balance mode biased towards time priority, the first coefficient is set to 1.0 and the second coefficient is set to less than 1.

0. When the user selects the balance mode biased towards cost priority, the first coefficient is set to less than 1.0 and the second coefficient is set to 1.0.

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