Vehicle-mounted device, vehicle-mounted communication system, and communication control method

Abstract

The vehicle-mounted device is connected to other vehicle-mounted devices via different types of transmission paths, namely a first transmission path and a second transmission path, and has a control unit and a sending unit that sends communication information to the other vehicle-mounted devices. The control unit selects at least one of the first transmission path and the second transmission path as the transmission path for sending the communication information based on the content of the communication information, so that the sending unit sends the communication information via the selected transmission path.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a vehicle-mounted device, a vehicle-mounted communication system, and a communication control method.

[0002] This application claims the benefit of priority based on Japanese patent application No. 2020-101979, filed on June 12, 2020, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein in its entirety. Background Art

[0003] In patent document 1 (Japanese Patent Publication No. 2019-186644), the following vehicle-mounted communication system is disclosed. That is, the vehicle-mounted communication system has a plurality of connection parts respectively connected to communication lines, and has two vehicle-mounted relay devices that relay the transmission and reception of messages via the plurality of communication lines connected to the connection parts, the two vehicle-mounted relay devices are connected via two or more communication lines, and the vehicle-mounted relay device has a message sending part, which selects one communication line from the two or more communication lines in a predetermined order to send a message to be sent to other vehicle-mounted relay devices.

[0004] Prior art literature

[0005] Patent Literature

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-186644 Summary of the invention

[0007] (1) The vehicle-mounted device of the present invention is connected to other vehicle-mounted devices via different types of transmission paths, namely, a first transmission path and a second transmission path. The vehicle-mounted device includes a control unit and a sending unit that sends communication information to the other vehicle-mounted devices. The control unit selects at least one of the first transmission path and the second transmission path as the transmission path for sending the communication information based on the content of the communication information, so that the sending unit sends the communication information via the selected transmission path.

[0008] (8) The vehicle-mounted communication system disclosed in the present invention comprises a central vehicle-mounted device and a plurality of peripheral vehicle-mounted devices connected to the central vehicle-mounted device via different types of transmission paths, namely, a first transmission path and a second transmission path. The plurality of peripheral vehicle-mounted devices are connected to the central vehicle-mounted device one-to-one via the first transmission path, respectively, and at least a portion of the plurality of peripheral vehicle-mounted devices are connected to the central vehicle-mounted device via the second transmission path in a bus-type connection manner.

[0009] (10) The communication control method disclosed in the present invention is a communication control method for a vehicle-mounted device connected to other vehicle-mounted devices via different types of transmission paths, namely, a first transmission path and a second transmission path. The communication control method includes the following steps: based on the content of the communication information to be sent to the other vehicle-mounted device, selecting at least one of the first transmission path and the second transmission path as the transmission path for sending the communication information; and sending the communication information to the other vehicle-mounted device via the selected transmission path.

[0010] One aspect of the present disclosure can be realized not only as an in-vehicle device having such a characteristic processing unit, but also as a program for causing a computer to execute the steps of the characteristic processing, or as a semiconductor integrated circuit that realizes a part or all of the in-vehicle device. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] Figure 1 It is a diagram showing a configuration of an in-vehicle communication system according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0012] Figure 2 It is a diagram showing the configuration of a zone ECU according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0013] Figure 3 It is a diagram showing the configuration of an integrated ECU according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0014] Figure 4 This is a flowchart that defines an example of an operation procedure when the zone ECU according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure transmits communication information to the integrated ECU.

[0015] Figure 5 This is a flowchart that defines an example of an operation procedure when the integrated ECU according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure transmits communication information to the zone ECUs.

[0016] Figure 6 This is a diagram showing an example of a sequence of communication processing in the in-vehicle communication system according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0017] Figure 7 It is a diagram showing an example of a configuration of an in-vehicle communication system according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] Figure 8 It is a diagram showing another example of the configuration of the vehicle-mounted communication system according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0019] Conventionally, there has been proposed an in-vehicle communication system including two in-vehicle devices that are connected via a plurality of communication lines and transmit and receive messages via the plurality of communication lines.

[0020] [Problems to be Solved by the Present Disclosure]

[0021] In the technology described in Patent Document 1, the communication load can be reduced by using a plurality of communication lines. However, in future in-vehicle networks where a variety of communication information may be sent and received, a technology that more effectively uses a plurality of transmission paths is desired.

[0022] The present disclosure has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and an object of the present disclosure is to provide an in-vehicle device, an in-vehicle communication system, and a communication control method that can more effectively utilize a plurality of transmission paths in an in-vehicle network.

[0023] [Effects of the present disclosure]

[0024] According to the present disclosure, multiple transmission paths can be used more effectively in an in-vehicle network.

[0025] [Description of Embodiments of the Present Disclosure]

[0026] First, the contents of the embodiments of the present disclosure will be described by way of examples.

[0027] (1) The vehicle-mounted device involved in the embodiment of the present disclosure is connected to other vehicle-mounted devices via different types of transmission paths, namely, a first transmission path and a second transmission path. The vehicle-mounted device includes a control unit and a sending unit that sends communication information to the other vehicle-mounted devices. The control unit selects at least one of the first transmission path and the second transmission path as the transmission path for sending the communication information based on the content of the communication information, so that the sending unit sends the communication information via the selected transmission path.

[0028] In this way, by selecting a transmission path according to the content of the communication information to be sent and sending the communication information via the selected transmission path, it is possible to consider the characteristics of each transmission path and send the communication information via a more preferred transmission path for each communication information, so that, for example, it is possible to reduce the communication load and improve the reliability of communication when an abnormality occurs. Therefore, multiple transmission paths can be used more effectively in the vehicle network.

[0029] (2) Preferably, the time required for the second transmission path to be able to communicate after it changes from a sleep state or a stop state to a start state is shorter than that of the first transmission path, and the control unit selects the second transmission path as the transmission path for sending startup communication information, and the startup communication information is the communication information used to start the other vehicle-mounted devices.

[0030] With such a configuration, the time until other in-vehicle devices are activated can be shortened, so that, for example, in an in-vehicle communication system having a sleep function, the response performance at the time of activation can be improved.

[0031] (3) More preferably, the control unit selects the second transmission path as the transmission path for transmitting the communication information to the other vehicle-mounted device immediately after startup.

[0032] With such a configuration, communication information can be sent to other vehicle-mounted devices without waiting until the first transmission path becomes capable of communication, thereby further improving response performance.

[0033] (4) Preferably, the second transmission path has a lower throughput than the first transmission path, and the control unit selects the first transmission path instead of the second transmission path as the transmission path for transmitting the communication information of a specific type.

[0034] With such a configuration, the communication load on the second transmission path can be reduced compared to the case where both the first transmission path and the second transmission path are selected in transmission of all communication information.

[0035] (5) Preferably, the control unit selects whether to use both the first transmission path and the second transmission path for sending the communication information, or to use only one of the first transmission path and the second transmission path for sending the communication information, based on the priority of the communication information to be sent to the other vehicle-mounted device.

[0036] Through such a structure, for example, one of the first transmission path and the second transmission path is used in sending low-priority communication information, and both of the first transmission path are used in sending high-priority communication information, so that high-priority communication information can be sent to other vehicle-mounted devices more reliably and the communication load can be reduced.

[0037] (6) It is more preferred that the control unit selects both the first transmission path and the second transmission path as the transmission path for sending at least one of the communication information for causing the vehicle to avoid driving and the communication information that should be sent when other vehicle-mounted devices fail, selects the first transmission path as the transmission path for sending at least one of the communication information that should be sent when the vehicle is driving normally and the communication information for performing driving assistance control of the vehicle, and selects the second transmission path as the transmission path for sending the communication information for fault diagnosis of other vehicle-mounted devices.

[0038] With such a configuration, it is possible to transmit communication information via a more preferred transmission path in consideration of the characteristics of the communication of the first transmission path and the second transmission path and the states of the vehicle and the vehicle-mounted device.

[0039] (7) Preferably, the first transmission path is a transmission path in accordance with Ethernet (registered trademark) standards, and the second transmission path is a transmission path in accordance with CAN (Controller Area Network) (registered trademark) standards.

[0040] With such a configuration, in an in-vehicle network constituted by a transmission path conforming to the Ethernet standard and a transmission path conforming to the CAN standard, a plurality of transmission paths can be used more effectively.

[0041] (8) The vehicle-mounted communication system involved in the embodiment of the present disclosure includes a central vehicle-mounted device and a plurality of peripheral vehicle-mounted devices connected to the central vehicle-mounted device via different types of transmission paths, namely a first transmission path and a second transmission path. The plurality of peripheral vehicle-mounted devices are connected to the central vehicle-mounted device one-to-one via the first transmission path, respectively, and at least a portion of the plurality of peripheral vehicle-mounted devices are connected to the central vehicle-mounted device in a bus-type connection manner via the second transmission path.

[0042] In this way, by connecting a plurality of peripheral on-board devices to the central on-board device via the second transmission path in a bus-type connection, the number of components required for communication using the second transmission path, such as a communication port connected to the second transmission path and a communication IC, can be reduced in the central on-board device, compared with a structure in which peripheral on-board devices are connected to the central on-board device one-to-one via the second transmission path. Therefore, a plurality of transmission paths can be used more effectively in the on-board network.

[0043] (9) Preferably, all of the plurality of peripheral vehicle-mounted devices are connected to the central vehicle-mounted device via one second transmission path in a bus-type connection manner.

[0044] With such a configuration, in the central vehicle-mounted device, the number of components required for communication using the second transmission path, such as a communication port connected to the second transmission path and a communication IC, can be further reduced.

[0045] (10) The communication control method involved in the embodiment of the present disclosure is a communication control method for a vehicle-mounted device connected to other vehicle-mounted devices via different types of transmission paths, namely, a first transmission path and a second transmission path, and the communication control method includes the following steps: based on the content of the communication information to be sent to the other vehicle-mounted device, selecting at least one of the first transmission path and the second transmission path as the transmission path for sending the communication information; and sending the communication information to the other vehicle-mounted device via the selected transmission path.

[0046] In this way, by selecting a transmission path according to the content of the communication information to be sent and sending the communication information via the selected transmission path, the characteristics of each transmission path can be considered, and the communication information can be sent via a more preferred transmission path for each communication information, so that, for example, the communication load can be reduced and the reliability of communication when an abnormality occurs can be improved. Therefore, multiple transmission paths can be used more effectively in the vehicle network.

[0047] The following are embodiments of the present disclosure using the accompanying drawings. In addition, the same reference numerals are added to the same or equivalent parts in the drawings, and their descriptions are not repeated. In addition, at least a part of the embodiments described below can also be arbitrarily combined.

[0048] [Structure and basic movements]

[0049] Figure 1 1 is a diagram showing a configuration of an in-vehicle communication system according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 1 The vehicle communication system 301 includes an integrated ECU (Electronic Control Unit) 201, area ECUs 101A, 101B, 101C, 101D, 101E, terminal ECUs 71A, 71B, 71C, 71D, 71E, 71F, sensors 81A, 81B, 81C, 81D, 81E, 81F, and actuators 91A, 91B, 91C, 91D, 91E, 91F. The vehicle communication system 301 is mounted on the vehicle 1.

[0050] Hereinafter, each of the regional ECUs 101A, 101B, 101C, 101D, and 101E is also referred to as a regional ECU 101, and each of the terminal ECUs 71A, 71B, 71C, 71D, 71E, and 71F is also referred to as a terminal ECU 71. The integrated ECU 201 is an example of an onboard device and an example of a central onboard device. The regional ECU 101 is an example of an onboard device and an example of a peripheral onboard device.

[0051] The regional ECU 101 is connected to the integrated ECU 201 via the transmission line 3. More specifically, the regional ECU 101 is connected to the integrated ECU 201 via the transmission line 3 on a one-to-one basis. In addition, the regional ECU 101 is connected to the integrated ECU 201 via the transmission line 5. More specifically, the regional ECU 101 is connected to the integrated ECU 201 via the transmission line 5 on a one-to-one basis.

[0052] The terminal ECUs 71A and 71F are connected to the regional ECU 101A via the corresponding transmission lines 5. The terminal ECU 71B is connected to the regional ECU 101B via the transmission line 5. The terminal ECU 71C is connected to the regional ECU 101C via the transmission line 5. The terminal ECU 71D is connected to the regional ECU 101D via the transmission line 5. The terminal ECU 71E is connected to the regional ECU 101E via the transmission line 5.

[0053] The sensor 81A and the actuator 91A are connected to the terminal ECU 71A via the corresponding transmission line 7, respectively. The sensor 81B and the actuator 91B are connected to the terminal ECU 71B via the corresponding transmission line 7, respectively. The sensor 81C and the actuator 91C are connected to the terminal ECU 71C via the corresponding transmission line 7, respectively. The sensor 81D and the actuator 91D are connected to the terminal ECU 71D via the corresponding transmission line 7, respectively. The sensor 81E and the actuator 91E are connected to the terminal ECU 71E via the corresponding transmission line 7, respectively. The sensor 81F and the actuator 91F are connected to the terminal ECU 71F via the corresponding transmission line 7, respectively. Hereinafter, each sensor among the sensors 81A, 81B, 81C, 81D, 81E, and 81F is also referred to as the sensor 81, and each actuator among the actuators 91A, 91B, 91C, 91D, 91E, and 91F is also referred to as the actuator 91.

[0054] The transmission lines 3 and 5 are transmission paths conforming to any standard such as CAN, FlexRay (registered trademark), MOST (Media Oriented Systems Transport) (registered trademark), Ethernet, and LIN (Local Interconnect Network). The transmission line 7 is a signal line capable of transmitting analog signals, for example.

[0055] Transmission line 3 and transmission line 5 are different types of transmission paths. Transmission line 3 is an example of a first transmission path. Transmission line 5 is an example of a second transmission path. In the following, it is assumed that transmission line 3 is a transmission path in accordance with Ethernet standards, and transmission line 5 is a transmission path in accordance with CAN standards.

[0056] In addition, the in-vehicle communication system 301 may be configured to include two or more integrated ECUs 201. In addition, the in-vehicle communication system 301 may be configured to include one, two, three, four, or six or more regional ECUs 101.

[0057] The terminal ECU 71 obtains the measurement results obtained by the sensor 81 connected to itself. For example, the sensor 81 is a variety of measuring devices such as a camera, an illumination sensor, a vehicle speed sensor, and a smart key sensor. The sensor 81 performs measurement regularly or irregularly, and sends an analog signal representing the measurement result to the corresponding terminal ECU 71 via the transmission line 7. The terminal ECU 71 receives the analog signal from the sensor 81 connected to itself, performs AD (Analog Digital) conversion on the analog signal according to a predetermined sampling period, and thus generates measurement information representing the measurement result. For example, the terminal ECU 71 periodically sends the generated measurement information to the regional ECU 101 connected to itself. Alternatively, when the generated measurement information meets a predetermined condition, the terminal ECU 71 generates detection information and sends the generated detection information to the regional ECU 101 connected to itself. In more detail, the terminal ECU 71 stores the generated measurement information or detection information in a CAN frame and sends it to the corresponding regional ECU 101 via the transmission line 5.

[0058] For example, the sensor 81A is a smart key sensor capable of measuring radio waves output from the smart key. The terminal ECU 71A obtains the measurement result from the sensor 81A and generates measurement information indicating the obtained measurement result. For example, when the generated measurement information satisfies a predetermined condition, the terminal ECU 71A generates detection information indicating that the smart key exists next to the vehicle 1, i.e., key detection information, and sends the generated key detection information to the regional ECU 101A.

[0059] For example, the sensor 81F is a vehicle speed sensor. The terminal ECU 71F acquires the measurement result from the sensor 81F and generates vehicle speed information which is measurement information indicating the acquired measurement result. For example, the terminal ECU 71F periodically transmits the generated measurement information to the area ECU 101F.

[0060] In addition, the terminal ECU 71 drives the actuator 91 connected to itself. More specifically, the area ECU 101 stores the control information for controlling the actuator 91 in the CAN frame and transmits it to the corresponding terminal ECU 71 via the transmission line 5. The terminal ECU 71 generates a drive signal based on the received control information, and transmits the generated drive signal to the corresponding actuator 91 via the transmission line 7. The actuator 91 operates according to the drive signal received from the terminal ECU 71.

[0061] For example, the actuator 91E is a door lock actuator, and the actuator 91E receives a drive signal from the terminal ECU 71E, and locks or unlocks the door according to the received drive signal.

[0062] The network structure of the vehicle communication system 301 is a central area type. In more detail, each regional ECU 101 sends the measurement information or detection information received from the terminal ECU 71 connected to itself to the integrated ECU 201. The integrated ECU 201 is a central device that processes the measurement information and detection information received from the regional ECU 101. The integrated ECU 201 generates control information for controlling the actuator 91 and sends the generated control information to the regional ECU 101. The regional ECU 101 sends the control information received from the integrated ECU 201 to the terminal ECU 71 connected to itself. The measurement information, detection information and control information are examples of communication information. In the central area type network structure, new functions can be added to the vehicle communication system 301 by simple methods such as updating the firmware of the integrated ECU 201, so it is possible to flexibly respond to the need to add functions to the vehicle communication system 301.

[0063] [Regional ECU]

[0064] Figure 2 2 is a diagram showing a configuration of a zone ECU according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2 The regional ECU 101 includes communication ports 13 and 15, a communication unit 30, a storage unit 50, and a control unit 60. The communication unit 30 includes an Ethernet communication unit 33 and a CAN communication unit 35. The control unit 60 includes an acquisition unit 10, a selection unit 20, and a drive unit 40. The communication unit 30 and the control unit 60 are implemented by processors such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and a DSP (Digital Signal Processor). The Ethernet communication unit 33 and the CAN communication unit 35 are, for example, communication ICs (Integrated Circuits). The storage unit 50 is, for example, a nonvolatile memory. The communication unit 30 is an example of a sending unit.

[0065] The communication port 13 is connected to the integrated ECU 201 via a transmission line 3 , and the communication port 15 is connected to the integrated ECU 201 via a transmission line 5 .

[0066] The communication unit 30 receives control information from the integrated ECU 201. More specifically, the Ethernet communication unit 33 in the communication unit 30 receives an Ethernet frame storing control information from the integrated ECU 201 via the transmission line 3 and the communication port 13. The Ethernet communication unit 33 obtains control information from the received Ethernet frame and stores it in the storage unit 50. In addition, the CAN communication unit 35 in the communication unit 30 receives a CAN frame storing control information from the integrated ECU 201 via the transmission line 5 and the communication port 15. The CAN communication unit 35 obtains control information from the received CAN frame and stores it in the storage unit 50.

[0067] After the communication unit 30 stores the control information in the storage unit 50 , the drive unit 40 acquires the control information from the storage unit 50 , stores the acquired control information in a CAN frame, and transmits the acquired control information to the corresponding terminal ECU 71 via the transmission line 5 .

[0068] The acquisition unit 10 receives the detection information or the measurement information from the terminal ECU 71. The acquisition unit 10 stores the received detection information or the measurement information in the storage unit 50. For example, the acquisition unit 10 in the area ECU 101A receives the vehicle speed information from the terminal ECU 71F, and stores the received vehicle speed information in the storage unit 50. In addition, for example, the acquisition unit 10 in the area ECU 101A receives the key detection information from the terminal ECU 71A, and stores the received key detection information in the storage unit 50.

[0069] The communication unit 30 transmits communication information such as detection information or measurement information to the integrated ECU 201. The control unit 60 selects at least one of the transmission line 3 and the transmission line 5 as a transmission path for transmitting the communication information according to the content of the communication information, and causes the communication unit 30 to transmit the communication information via the selected transmission path.

[0070] More specifically, the selection unit 20 in the control unit 60 obtains communication information such as detection information or measurement information from the storage unit 50, and outputs the obtained communication information to the communication unit 30. The communication unit 30 transmits the communication information received from the selection unit 20 to the integrated ECU 201. The selection unit 20 selects at least one of the transmission line 3 in accordance with the Ethernet standard and the transmission line 5 in accordance with the CAN standard as a transmission path for transmitting the communication information, based on the content of the communication information to be transmitted to the integrated ECU 201.

[0071] For example, when the selection unit 20 selects only the transmission line 3 as the transmission path for sending communication information, the communication information is output only to the Ethernet communication unit 33 in the communication unit 30. Also, for example, when the selection unit 20 selects only the transmission line 5 as the transmission path for sending communication information, the communication information is output only to the CAN communication unit 35 in the communication unit 30. Also, for example, when the selection unit 20 selects both the transmission line 3 and the transmission line 5 as the transmission paths for sending communication information, the communication information is output to both the Ethernet communication unit 33 and the CAN communication unit 35.

[0072] When the Ethernet communication unit 33 in the communication unit 30 receives the communication information from the selection unit 20, it generates an Ethernet frame including the communication information as a message and the MAC address of the integrated ECU 201 as a target MAC address, and sends the generated Ethernet frame to the integrated ECU 201 via the communication port 13 and the transmission line 3. In addition, when the CAN communication unit 35 in the communication unit 30 receives the communication information from the selection unit 20, it generates a CAN frame including the communication information as a message, and sends the generated CAN frame to the integrated ECU 201 via the communication port 15 and the transmission line 5.

[0073] [Comprehensive ECU]

[0074] Figure 3 1 is a diagram showing the structure of an integrated ECU according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 3 The integrated ECU 201 includes communication ports 23A, 23B, 23C, 23D, 23E, communication ports 25A, 25B, 25C, 25D, 25E, a communication unit 110, a storage unit 140, and a control unit 150. The control unit 150 includes a processing unit 120 and a selection unit 130. The communication unit 110, the processing unit 120, and the selection unit 130 are implemented by processors such as a CPU and a DSP. The storage unit 140 is, for example, a non-volatile memory. The communication unit 110 includes a plurality of Ethernet communication units (not shown) provided for each communication port 23 and a plurality of CAN communication units (not shown) provided for each communication port 25. The plurality of Ethernet communication units and the plurality of CAN communication units are, for example, communication ICs. The communication unit 110 is an example of a sending unit.

[0075] The communication port 23A is connected to the regional ECU 101A via the transmission line 3, and the communication port 25A is connected to the regional ECU 101A via the transmission line 5. The communication port 23B is connected to the regional ECU 101B via the transmission line 3, and the communication port 25B is connected to the regional ECU 101B via the transmission line 5. The communication port 23C is connected to the regional ECU 101C via the transmission line 3, and the communication port 25C is connected to the regional ECU 101C via the transmission line 5. The communication port 23D is connected to the regional ECU 101D via the transmission line 3, and the communication port 25D is connected to the regional ECU 101D via the transmission line 5. The communication port 23E is connected to the regional ECU 101E via the transmission line 3, and the communication port 25E is connected to the regional ECU 101E via the transmission line 5. Hereinafter, each of the communication ports 23A, 23B, 23C, 23D, and 23E is also referred to as the communication port 23, and each of the communication ports 25A, 25B, 25C, 25D, and 25E is also referred to as the communication port 25.

[0076] The communication unit 110 receives communication information from the regional ECU 101. More specifically, the Ethernet communication unit in the communication unit 110 receives an Ethernet frame storing communication information from the corresponding regional ECU 101 via the transmission line 3 and the communication port 23, obtains detection information or measurement information from the received Ethernet frame, and stores it in the storage unit 140. In addition, the CAN communication unit in the communication unit 110 receives a CAN frame storing detection information or measurement information from the corresponding regional ECU 101 via the transmission line 5 and the communication port 25, obtains detection information or measurement information from the received CAN frame, and stores it in the storage unit 140.

[0077] For example, the communication unit 110 receives vehicle speed information from the regional ECU 101A and stores the received vehicle speed information in the storage unit 140. Also, for example, the communication unit 110 receives key detection information from the regional ECU 101A and stores the received key detection information in the storage unit 50.

[0078] The processing unit 120 obtains the detection information or the measurement information from the storage unit 140, processes the obtained detection information or the measurement information, and generates control information for controlling the actuator 91. The processing unit 120 outputs the generated control information and the target information indicating the MAC address of the target regional ECU 101 to the selection unit 130. For example, the processing unit 120 obtains the key detection information from the storage unit 140, processes the obtained key detection information, and generates control information for controlling the door lock actuator, that is, the actuator 91E. Then, the processing unit 120 outputs the generated control information and the target information indicating the MAC address of the regional ECU 101E to the selection unit 130.

[0079] The processing unit 120 may obtain the detection information or the measurement information from the storage unit 140 and output the obtained detection information or the measurement information as it is to the selection unit 130. Specifically, the processing unit 120 obtains the key detection information from the storage unit 140 and outputs the obtained key detection information and the target information to the selection unit 130.

[0080] The communication unit 110 transmits communication information to the regional ECU 101. The control unit 150 selects at least one of the transmission line 3 and the transmission line 5 as a transmission path for transmitting the communication information according to the content of the communication information, and causes the communication unit 110 to transmit the communication information via the selected transmission path.

[0081] More specifically, the selection unit 130 in the control unit 60 receives communication information such as control information, detection information, and measurement information, and target information from the processing unit 120, and outputs the received communication information and target information to the communication unit 110. The communication unit 110 transmits the communication information received from the selection unit 130 to the regional ECU 101 indicated by the target information. The selection unit 130 selects at least one of the transmission line 3 in accordance with the Ethernet standard and the transmission line 5 in accordance with the CAN standard as a transmission path for transmitting the communication information, based on the content of the communication information to be transmitted to the regional ECU 101.

[0082] For example, when the selection unit 130 selects only the transmission line 3 as the transmission path for sending the communication information, the communication information and the target information are output only to the Ethernet communication unit in the communication unit 110. Also, for example, when the selection unit 130 selects only the transmission line 5 as the transmission path for sending the communication information, the communication information and the target information are output only to the CAN communication unit in the communication unit 110. Also, for example, when the selection unit 130 selects the transmission line 3 and the transmission line 5 as the transmission paths for sending the communication information, the communication information and the target information are output to both the Ethernet communication unit and the CAN communication unit.

[0083] When the Ethernet communication unit in the communication unit 110 receives the communication information and the target information from the selection unit 130, it generates an Ethernet frame including the communication information as a message and the MAC address indicated by the target information as the target MAC address, and sends the generated Ethernet frame to the target regional ECU 101 via the communication port 23 and the transmission line 3. In addition, when the CAN communication unit in the communication unit 110 receives the communication information and the target information from the selection unit 130, it generates a CAN frame including the communication information as a message, and sends the generated CAN frame to the target regional ECU 101 via the communication port 25 and the transmission line 5.

[0084] (Selection Example 1 by the Selection Unit)

[0085] The time required for the transmission line 5 conforming to the CAN standard to become capable of communication after the transmission line 5 is switched from the sleep state or the stop state to the start state is shorter than that of the transmission line 3 conforming to the Ethernet standard.

[0086] For example, the communication unit 30 in the area ECU 101 and the communication unit 110 in the integrated ECU 201 are in a sleep state or a stopped state when the ignition power of the vehicle 1 is off.

[0087] (Selection section in regional ECU)

[0088] The selection unit 20 in the zone ECU 101 selects the transmission line 5 as a transmission path for transmitting the key detection information which is communication information for starting the integrated ECU 201 .

[0089] More specifically, when the key detection information is stored in the storage unit 50 by the acquisition unit 10, the selection unit 20 outputs the activation information for activating the communication unit 30 to the Ethernet communication unit 33 and the CAN communication unit 35. In addition, the selection unit 20 monitors the communication unit 30, and when, for example, the CAN communication unit 35 is activated and becomes capable of sending communication information, the key detection information is acquired from the storage unit 50 and output to the CAN communication unit 35. The key detection information is an example of the activation communication information.

[0090] (Selection section in integrated ECU)

[0091] The selection unit 130 in the integrated ECU 201 selects the transmission line 5 as a transmission path for transmitting the key detection information which is the communication information for starting the zone ECU 101 .

[0092] More specifically, when the selection unit 130 receives the key detection information from the processing unit 120, it outputs the activation information for activating the communication unit 110 to the Ethernet communication unit and the CAN communication unit in the communication unit 110. In addition, the selection unit 130 monitors the communication unit 110, and when the CAN communication unit is activated and becomes capable of sending communication information, for example, the key detection information is output to the CAN communication unit.

[0093] (Selection Example 2 by the Selection Unit)

[0094] (Selection section in regional ECU)

[0095] The selection unit 20 selects the transmission line 5 as a transmission path for transmitting communication information to the integrated ECU 201 immediately after startup.

[0096] When the selection unit 20 in the area ECU 101A acquires the vehicle speed information from the storage unit 50 during the period from when the key detection information is transmitted to the integrated ECU 201 via the CAN communication unit 35 until a predetermined time has passed, the selection unit 20 outputs the acquired vehicle speed information to the CAN communication unit 35 .

[0097] After the integrated ECU 201 that has received the key detection information changes from the sleep state or the stop state to the start state, the selection unit 20 acquires the vehicle speed information from the storage unit 50 and outputs it to the CAN communication unit 35 .

[0098] For example, when the communication unit 110 in the integrated ECU 201 changes from the sleep state or the stop state to the start state due to the key detection information received from the regional ECU 101 by the CAN communication unit in the communication unit 110, the start completion information is sent to the regional ECU 101 via the transmission line 5 in response to the key detection information. When the CAN communication unit 35 in the communication unit 30 of the regional ECU 101 receives the start completion information from the integrated ECU 201 via the communication port 15, the received start completion information is stored in the storage unit 50. When the start completion information is stored in the storage unit 50 by the CAN communication unit 35, the selection unit 20 recognizes that the integrated ECU 201 has been started, obtains the vehicle speed information from the storage unit 50, and outputs it to the CAN communication unit 35.

[0099] Alternatively, the selection unit 20 determines that the integrated ECU 201 is activated after a predetermined period has passed since the key detection information was transmitted to the integrated ECU 201 via the CAN communication unit 35 in the communication unit 30 , acquires the vehicle speed information from the storage unit 50 , and outputs it to the CAN communication unit 35 .

[0100] (Selection section in integrated ECU)

[0101] The selection unit 130 selects the transmission line 5 as a transmission path for transmitting communication information to the regional ECU 101 immediately after startup.

[0102] When receiving vehicle speed information from the processing unit 120 during the period from when the key detection information is transmitted to the zone ECU 101 via the CAN communication unit in the communication unit 110 until a predetermined time has passed, the selection unit 130 in the integrated ECU 201 outputs the received vehicle speed information to the CAN communication unit in the communication unit 110 .

[0103] The selection unit 130 outputs the vehicle speed information to the CAN communication unit after the zone ECU 101 that has received the key detection information shifts from the sleep state or the stop state to the activation state.

[0104] For example, when the communication unit 30 in the regional ECU 101 changes from the sleep state or the stop state to the start state by receiving the key detection information from the integrated ECU 201 through the CAN communication unit 35, the communication unit 30 transmits the start completion information to the integrated ECU 201 through the transmission line 5 as a response to the key detection information. When the CAN communication unit in the communication unit 110 of the integrated ECU 201 receives the start completion information from the regional ECU 101 through the communication port 25, the CAN communication unit stores the received start completion information in the storage unit 140. When the CAN communication unit stores the start completion information in the storage unit 140, the selection unit 130 recognizes that the regional ECU 101 has been started, and outputs the vehicle speed information received from the processing unit 120 to the CAN communication unit.

[0105] Alternatively, after a predetermined period has passed since the key detection information was transmitted to the regional ECU 101 via the CAN communication unit in the communication unit 110 , the selection unit 130 considers that the regional ECU 101 is activated and outputs the vehicle speed information received from the processing unit 120 to the CAN communication unit.

[0106] (Selection Example 3 by the Selection Unit)

[0107] For example, the transmission line 5 conforming to the CAN standard has a lower throughput than the transmission line 3 conforming to the Ethernet standard. The selection unit 20, 130 selects the transmission line 3 instead of the transmission line 5 as a transmission path for transmitting a specific type of communication information.

[0108] (Selection section in regional ECU)

[0109] When acquiring a specific type of communication information from the storage unit 50 , the selection unit 20 in the zone ECU 101 outputs the acquired communication information to the Ethernet communication unit 33 instead of outputting it to the CAN communication unit 35 .

[0110] For example, the selection unit 20 selects whether to use both the transmission line 3 and the transmission line 5 for transmitting the communication information or to use only one of the transmission line 3 and the transmission line 5 for transmitting the communication information, based on the priority of the communication information to be transmitted to the integrated ECU 201 .

[0111] More specifically, a priority corresponding to the type of communication information is set for the communication information sent to the integrated ECU 201. For example, when the selection unit 20 obtains communication information with a priority of a predetermined value or more from the storage unit 50, the transmission line 3 and the transmission line 5 are selected as the transmission path for sending the obtained communication information, and the communication information is output to both the Ethernet communication unit 33 and the CAN communication unit 35. On the other hand, when the selection unit 20 obtains communication information with a priority lower than the predetermined value from the storage unit 50, the transmission line 3 and the transmission line 5 are selected as the transmission path for sending the obtained communication information, and the communication information is output to the selected one.

[0112] For example, the selection unit 20 selects both the transmission line 3 and the transmission line 5 as the transmission path for transmitting at least one of the communication information C1 for causing the vehicle 1 to make an evasive travel and the communication information C2 to be transmitted when a failure occurs in other vehicle-mounted devices. More specifically, a high priority is set for the communication information C1 for causing the vehicle 1 to make an evasive travel and the communication information C2 to be transmitted when a failure occurs in other vehicle-mounted devices. When the selection unit 20 obtains the communication information C1 or the communication information C2 from the storage unit 50, it outputs the obtained communication information to both the Ethernet communication unit 33 and the CAN communication unit 35.

[0113] In addition, for example, the selection unit 20 selects the transmission line 3 as a transmission path for transmitting at least one of the communication information C3 to be transmitted when the vehicle 1 is traveling normally and the communication information C4 for performing driving assistance control of the vehicle 1. More specifically, a low priority is set for the communication information C3 to be transmitted during normal traveling and the communication information C4 for performing driving assistance control. When the selection unit 20 obtains the communication information C3 or the communication information C4 from the storage unit 50, the obtained communication information is output to the Ethernet communication unit 33. Specifically, when the selection unit 20 obtains the communication information related to the advanced driver assistance (ADAS: Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) function as an example of the communication information C4 from the storage unit 50, the obtained communication information is output to the Ethernet communication unit 33.

[0114] In addition, for example, the selection unit 20 selects the transmission line 5 as the transmission path for transmitting the communication information C5 for fault diagnosis of other vehicle-mounted devices. More specifically, a low priority is set for the communication information C5 for fault diagnosis of other vehicle-mounted devices. When the selection unit 20 obtains the communication information C5 from the storage unit 50, it outputs the obtained communication information C5 to the CAN communication unit 35.

[0115] Furthermore, the selection unit 20 may be configured to select one of the transmission line 3 and the transmission line 5 as the transmission path for transmitting the communication information C1 and C2. Furthermore, the selection unit 20 may be configured to select the transmission line 5 as the transmission path for transmitting the communication information C3 and C4. Furthermore, the selection unit 20 may be configured to select the transmission line 3 as the transmission path for transmitting the communication information C5.

[0116] (Selection section in integrated ECU)

[0117] When receiving a specific type of communication information from the processing unit 120 , the selection unit 130 in the integrated ECU 201 outputs the acquired communication information to the Ethernet communication unit instead of to the CAN communication unit.

[0118] For example, the selection unit 130 selects whether to use both the transmission line 3 and the transmission line 5 for transmitting the communication information or to use only one of the transmission line 3 and the transmission line 5 for transmitting the communication information, based on the priority of the communication information to be transmitted to the zone ECU 101 .

[0119] More specifically, a priority corresponding to the type of communication information is set for the communication information sent to the zone ECU 101. For example, when the selection unit 130 receives communication information with a priority of a predetermined value or more from the processing unit 120, the selection unit 130 selects both the transmission line 3 and the transmission line 5 as the transmission path for sending the received communication information, and outputs the communication information to both the Ethernet communication unit and the CAN communication unit in the communication unit 110. On the other hand, when the selection unit 130 receives communication information with a priority lower than the predetermined value from the processing unit 120, the selection unit 130 selects one of the Ethernet communication unit and the CAN communication unit as the transmission path for sending the received communication information, and outputs the communication information to the one of the two.

[0120] For example, the selection unit 130 selects both the transmission line 3 and the transmission line 5 as the transmission path for transmitting at least one of the communication information C11 for causing the vehicle 1 to make an evasive travel and the communication information C12 to be transmitted when a failure occurs in other vehicle-mounted devices. More specifically, a high priority is set for the communication information C11 for causing the vehicle 1 to make an evasive travel and the communication information C12 to be transmitted when a failure occurs in other vehicle-mounted devices. When the selection unit 130 receives the communication information C11 or the communication information C12 from the processing unit 120, it outputs the received communication information to both the Ethernet communication unit and the CAN communication unit.

[0121] In addition, for example, the selection unit 130 selects the transmission line 3 as a transmission path for transmitting at least one of the communication information C13 to be transmitted when the vehicle 1 is traveling normally and the communication information C14 for performing the driving assistance control of the vehicle 1. More specifically, a low priority is set for the communication information C13 to be transmitted when traveling normally and the communication information C14 for performing the driving assistance control. When the selection unit 130 receives the communication information C13 or the communication information C14 from the processing unit 120, the selection unit 130 outputs the received communication information to the Ethernet communication unit. Specifically, when the selection unit 130 receives the communication information related to the advanced driving assistance function as an example of the communication information C14 from the processing unit 120, the selection unit 130 outputs the received communication information to the Ethernet communication unit.

[0122] In addition, for example, the selection unit 130 selects the transmission line 5 as the transmission path for transmitting the communication information C15 for fault diagnosis of other vehicle-mounted devices. More specifically, a low priority is set for the communication information C15 for fault diagnosis of other vehicle-mounted devices. When the selection unit 130 receives the communication information C15 from the processing unit 120, it outputs the received communication information C15 to the CAN communication unit.

[0123] Furthermore, the selection unit 130 may be configured to select one of the transmission line 3 and the transmission line 5 as the transmission path for transmitting the communication information C11 and C12. Furthermore, the selection unit 130 may be configured to select the transmission line 5 as the transmission path for transmitting the communication information C13 and C14. Furthermore, the selection unit 130 may be configured to select the transmission line 3 as the transmission path for transmitting the communication information C15.

[0124] [Flow of Action]

[0125] Each device in the vehicle communication system involved in the embodiment of the present disclosure has a computer including a memory, and a CPU or other computing processing unit in the computer reads a program including a part or all of each step of the following flowchart and sequence from the memory for execution. The programs of these multiple devices can be installed from the outside. The programs of these multiple devices are stored in a recording medium or circulated via a communication line.

[0126] Figure 4 This is a flowchart that defines an example of an operation procedure when the zone ECU according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure transmits communication information to the integrated ECU.

[0127] Reference Figure 4First, the regional ECU 101 waits for communication information from the terminal ECU 71 ("No" in step S102). When the communication information is received from the terminal ECU 71 ("Yes" in step S102), based on the content of the received communication information, at least one of the transmission line 3 according to the Ethernet standard and the transmission line 5 according to the CAN standard is selected as the transmission path for sending the communication information (step S104).

[0128] Next, the area ECU 101 transmits communication information to the integrated ECU 201 via the selected transmission line (step S106 ).

[0129] Next, the area ECU 101 waits for new communication information from the terminal ECU 71 (NO in step S102 ).

[0130] Figure 5 This is a flowchart that defines an example of an operation procedure when the integrated ECU according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure transmits communication information to the regional ECUs.

[0131] Reference Figure 5 First, the integrated ECU 201 waits for communication information from the regional ECU 101 ("No" in step S202). When communication information is received from the regional ECU 101 ("Yes" in step S202), the integrated ECU 201 processes the received communication information to generate control information for controlling the actuator 91, i.e., communication information sent to the regional ECU 101 (step S204).

[0132] Next, the integrated ECU 201 selects at least one of the transmission line 3 conforming to the Ethernet standard and the transmission line 5 conforming to the CAN standard as a transmission path for transmitting the communication information, based on the content of the generated communication information (step S206 ).

[0133] Next, the integrated ECU 201 transmits communication information to the regional ECU 101 via the selected transmission line (step S208 ).

[0134] Next, the integrated ECU 201 waits for new communication information from the area ECU 101 (NO in step S202 ).

[0135] Figure 6 This is a diagram showing an example of a sequence of communication processing in the in-vehicle communication system according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0136] Reference Figure 6First, the area ECUs 101A and 101E and the integrated ECU 201 are switched from the activation state to the sleep state by, for example, switching off the ignition power of the vehicle 1 (step S302).

[0137] Next, for example, the area ECU 101A receives key detection information from the terminal ECU 71A (step S304 ).

[0138] Next, the area ECU 101A selects the transmission line 5 in accordance with the CAN standard as a transmission path for transmitting the key detection information (step S306).

[0139] Next, when the CAN communication unit 35 in the communication unit 30 is activated and becomes capable of transmitting communication information, the area ECU 101A transmits the key detection information to the integrated ECU 201 via the transmission line 5 (step S308 ).

[0140] Next, when receiving the key detection information from the area ECU 101A, the integrated ECU 201 selects the transmission line 5 conforming to the CAN standard as a transmission path for transmitting the key detection information (step S310 ).

[0141] Next, when the CAN communication unit in the communication unit 110 is activated and becomes capable of transmitting communication information, the integrated ECU 201 transmits the key detection information to the area ECU 101E via the transmission line 5 (step S312 ).

[0142] Furthermore, the integrated ECU 201 transmits activation completion information to the regional ECU 101A via the transmission line 5 (step S314 ).

[0143] Next, the integrated ECU 201 generates control information for controlling the actuator 91E which is a door lock actuator by processing the key detection information (step S316 ).

[0144] Next, when the CAN communication unit 35 in the communication unit 30 is activated and becomes capable of transmitting communication information, the area ECU 101E transmits activation completion information to the integrated ECU 201 via the transmission line 5 (step S318 ).

[0145] Next, the integrated ECU 201 receives the activation completion information from the regional ECU 101E, thereby recognizing that the regional ECU 101E has been activated, and transmits control information to the regional ECU 101E via the transmission line 5 (step S320 ).

[0146] Next, when receiving the control information from the integrated ECU 201 , the area ECU 101E transmits the control information to the terminal ECU 71E in order to cause the terminal ECU 71E to unlock the door using the actuator 91E (step S322 ).

[0147] Next, for example, the area ECU 101A receives the vehicle speed information from the terminal ECU 71F (step S324 ).

[0148] Next, the area ECU 101A selects both the transmission line 3 in accordance with the Ethernet standard and the transmission line 5 in accordance with the CAN standard as the transmission path for transmitting the vehicle speed information (step S326 ).

[0149] Next, the area ECU 101A transmits the vehicle speed information to the integrated ECU 201 via the transmission lines 3 and 5 (step S328 ).

[0150] In addition, in the vehicle communication system 301 involved in the embodiment of the present disclosure, the selection unit 20 in the regional ECU 101 is configured to select the transmission line 5 as the transmission path for sending the key detection information, but the present invention is not limited to this. The selection unit 20 may also be configured to select the transmission line 3 as the transmission path for sending the key detection information. In addition, in the vehicle communication system 301 involved in the embodiment of the present disclosure, the selection unit 130 in the integrated ECU 201 is configured to select the transmission line 5 as the transmission path for sending the key detection information, but the present invention is not limited to this. The selection unit 130 may also be configured to select the transmission line 3 as the transmission path for sending the key detection information.

[0151] In addition, in the vehicle communication system 301 involved in the embodiment of the present disclosure, the selection unit 20 in the regional ECU 101 is configured to select the transmission line 5 as the transmission path for sending communication information to the integrated ECU 201 just after startup, but the present invention is not limited to this. The selection unit 20 may also be configured to select the transmission line 3 as the transmission path for sending communication information to the integrated ECU 201 just after startup. In addition, in the vehicle communication system 301 involved in the embodiment of the present disclosure, the selection unit 130 in the integrated ECU 201 is configured to select the transmission line 5 as the transmission path for sending communication information to the regional ECU 101 just after startup, but the present invention is not limited to this. The selection unit 130 may also be configured to select the transmission line 3 as the transmission path for sending communication information to the regional ECU 101 just after startup.

[0152] In addition, in the vehicle communication system 301 involved in the embodiment of the present disclosure, the selection unit 20 in the regional ECU 101 is configured not to select the transmission line 5 as a transmission path for transmitting a specific type of communication information, but the present invention is not limited to this. The selection unit 20 may also be configured to select the transmission line 5 as a transmission path for transmitting all types of communication information. In addition, in the vehicle communication system 301 involved in the embodiment of the present disclosure, the selection unit 130 in the integrated ECU 201 is configured not to select the transmission line 5 as a transmission path for transmitting a specific type of communication information, but the present invention is not limited to this. The selection unit 130 may also be configured to select the transmission line 5 as a transmission path for transmitting all types of communication information.

[0153] In addition, in the vehicle communication system 301 involved in the embodiment of the present disclosure, the selection unit 20 in the regional ECU 101 is configured to select whether to use both the transmission line 3 and the transmission line 5 for transmitting the communication information or to use one of the transmission line 3 and the transmission line 5 for transmitting the communication information according to the priority of the communication information to be transmitted to the integrated ECU 201, but the present invention is not limited to this. The selection unit 20 may be configured to use both the transmission line 3 and the transmission line 5 for transmitting the communication information or to use one of the transmission line 3 and the transmission line 5 for transmitting the communication information regardless of the priority of the communication information to be transmitted. In addition, in the vehicle communication system 301 involved in the embodiment of the present disclosure, the selection unit 130 in the integrated ECU 201 is configured to select whether to use both the transmission line 3 and the transmission line 5 for transmitting the communication information or to use one of the transmission line 3 and the transmission line 5 for transmitting the communication information according to the priority of the communication information to be transmitted to the regional ECU 101, but the present invention is not limited to this. The selection unit 130 may be configured to use both the transmission line 3 and the transmission line 5 to transmit the communication information, or to use either the transmission line 3 or the transmission line 5 to transmit the communication information, regardless of the priority of the communication information to be transmitted.

[0154] However, a technology capable of more effectively utilizing multiple transmission paths in an in-vehicle network is desired.

[0155] In this regard, the regional ECU 101 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure is connected to the integrated ECU 201 via different types of transmission paths, namely, the transmission line 3 and the transmission line 5. In the regional ECU 101, the communication unit 30 transmits communication information to the integrated ECU 201. The control unit 60 selects at least one of the transmission line 3 and the transmission line 5 as a transmission path for transmitting the communication information according to the content of the communication information, and causes the communication unit 30 to transmit the communication information via the selected transmission path.

[0156] In addition, the integrated ECU 201 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure is connected to the regional ECU 101 via different types of transmission paths, namely, the transmission line 3 and the transmission line 5. In the integrated ECU 201, the communication unit 110 transmits communication information to the regional ECU 101. The control unit 150 selects at least one of the transmission line 3 and the transmission line 5 as a transmission path for transmitting the communication information according to the content of the communication information, and causes the communication unit 110 to transmit the communication information via the selected transmission path.

[0157] In addition, the communication control method according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure is a communication control method for a regional ECU 101 connected to the integrated ECU 201 via different types of transmission paths, namely, the transmission line 3 and the transmission line 5. In the communication control method, first, the regional ECU 101 selects at least one of the transmission line 3 and the transmission line 5 as a transmission path for transmitting communication information according to the content of the communication information to be transmitted to the integrated ECU 201. Next, the regional ECU 101 transmits the communication information to the integrated ECU 201 via the selected transmission path.

[0158] In addition, the communication control method according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure is a communication control method for the integrated ECU 201 connected to the regional ECU 101 via different types of transmission paths, namely, the transmission line 3 and the transmission line 5. In the communication control method, first, the integrated ECU 201 selects at least one of the transmission line 3 and the transmission line 5 as a transmission path for transmitting communication information according to the content of the communication information to be transmitted to the regional ECU 101. Next, the integrated ECU 201 transmits the communication information to the regional ECU 101 via the selected transmission path.

[0159] In this way, by selecting a transmission path based on the content of the communication information to be sent and sending the communication information via the selected transmission path, the structure and method can take into account the characteristics of each transmission path and send the communication information via a more preferred transmission path for each communication information. Therefore, for example, it is possible to reduce the communication load and improve the reliability of communication when an abnormality occurs.

[0160] Therefore, in the area ECU 101 and the integrated ECU 201 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure, a plurality of transmission paths can be used more effectively in the in-vehicle network.

[0161] Next, other embodiments of the present disclosure will be described using the drawings. In addition, the same reference numerals are attached to the same or corresponding parts in the drawings, and their description will not be repeated.

[0162] <Second embodiment>

[0163] Compared with the vehicle communication system 301 of the first embodiment, the present embodiment relates to a vehicle communication system 302 in which at least a part of the regional ECU 101 is connected to the integrated ECU 201 in a bus-type manner via the transmission line 5. Except for the following contents, the present embodiment is the same as the vehicle communication system 301 of the first embodiment.

[0164] Figure 7 2 is a diagram showing an example of a configuration of an in-vehicle communication system according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 7 The regional ECU 101 is connected to the integrated ECU 201 in a one-to-one manner via the transmission line 3. In addition, the regional ECUs 101A and 101B are connected to the integrated ECU 201 in a bus-type connection manner via the transmission line 5A as the transmission line 5. In addition, the regional ECUs 101C, 101D, and 101E are connected to the integrated ECU 201 in a bus-type connection manner via the transmission line 5B as the transmission line 5.

[0165] Figure 8 FIG. 2 is a diagram showing another example of the configuration of the vehicle-mounted communication system according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 8 All the regional ECUs 101 are connected to the integrated ECU 201 via the transmission line 5 in a bus-type connection manner.

[0166] As described above, in the vehicle communication system 302 according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure, the regional ECU 101 is connected to the integrated ECU 201 in a one-to-one manner via the transmission line 3. The regional ECUs 101A and 101B are connected to the integrated ECU 201 in a bus-type connection manner via the transmission line 5A. The regional ECUs 101C, 101D, and 101E are connected to the integrated ECU 201 in a bus-type connection manner via the transmission line 5B.

[0167] In this way, the structure in which multiple regional ECUs 101 are connected to the integrated ECU 201 in a bus-type connection manner via the transmission line 5 can reduce the number of components required for communication utilizing the transmission line 5, such as the communication port connected to the transmission line 5 and the communication IC, in the integrated ECU 201, compared with the structure in which the regional ECU 101 is connected to the integrated ECU 201 one-to-one via the transmission line 5.

[0168] Therefore, in the in-vehicle communication system according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure, a plurality of transmission paths can be more effectively utilized in the in-vehicle network.

[0169] It should be understood that the above embodiments are exemplary in all aspects and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is indicated by the claims rather than the above description, and is intended to include all changes within the meaning and scope equivalent to the claims.

[0170] The above description includes the features noted below.

[0171] [Note 1]

[0172] A vehicle-mounted device is connected to other vehicle-mounted devices via different types of transmission paths, namely a first transmission path and a second transmission path. The vehicle-mounted device is characterized in that it comprises: a control unit; and a sending unit, which sends communication information to the other vehicle-mounted devices. The control unit selects at least one of the first transmission path and the second transmission path as the transmission path for sending the communication information based on the content of the communication information, so that the sending unit sends the communication information via the selected transmission path. The first transmission path is a transmission path in accordance with Ethernet standards, and the second transmission path is a transmission path in accordance with CAN standards. The vehicle-mounted device is connected to the other vehicle-mounted devices in a bus-type connection manner via the second transmission path.

[0173] [Note 2]

[0174] A vehicle-mounted device is connected to other vehicle-mounted devices via different types of transmission paths, namely a first transmission path and a second transmission path. The vehicle-mounted device is characterized in that it comprises: a control unit; and a sending unit, which sends communication information to the other vehicle-mounted devices. The control unit selects at least one of the first transmission path and the second transmission path as the transmission path for sending the communication information based on the content of the communication information, so that the sending unit sends the communication information via the selected transmission path. The control unit and the sending unit are implemented by a processor.

[0175] [Note 3]

[0176] A vehicle-mounted communication system comprises: a central vehicle-mounted device; and a plurality of peripheral vehicle-mounted devices, which are connected to the central vehicle-mounted device via different types of transmission paths, namely a first transmission path and a second transmission path, wherein the plurality of peripheral vehicle-mounted devices are connected to the central vehicle-mounted device one-to-one via the first transmission path, at least a portion of the plurality of peripheral vehicle-mounted devices are connected to the central vehicle-mounted device via the second transmission path in a bus-type connection manner, the first transmission path is a transmission path in accordance with Ethernet standards, and the second transmission path is a transmission path in accordance with CAN standards, the peripheral vehicle-mounted devices send measurement information indicating a measurement result obtained by a sensor or detection information indicating that the measurement information satisfies a predetermined condition to the central vehicle-mounted device, and the central vehicle-mounted device generates control information for controlling an actuator based on at least one of the measurement information and the detection information received from the peripheral vehicle-mounted devices, and sends the generated control information to the peripheral vehicle-mounted devices.

[0177] [Note 4]

[0178] A vehicle communication system comprises: a central vehicle device; and a plurality of peripheral vehicle devices, which are connected to the central vehicle device via different types of transmission paths, namely a first transmission path and a second transmission path, wherein the plurality of peripheral vehicle devices are connected to the central vehicle device one-to-one via the first transmission path, at least a portion of the plurality of peripheral vehicle devices are connected to the central vehicle device via the second transmission path in a bus-type connection manner, the first transmission path is a transmission path in accordance with Ethernet standards, the second transmission path is a transmission path in accordance with CAN standards, the central vehicle device is an integrated ECU, and the peripheral vehicle devices are regional ECUs.

[0179] Description of Reference Numerals

[0180] 1 Vehicle

[0181] 3, 5, 7 Transmission Lines

[0182] 10 Acquisition

[0183] 13, 15 Communication ports

[0184] 20 Selection Department

[0185] 23, 25 Communication ports

[0186] 30 Ministry of Communications

[0187] 33 Ethernet Communication Department

[0188] 35 CAN Communication Department

[0189] 40 Drive unit

[0190] 50 Storage

[0191] 60 Control Department

[0192] 71 Terminal ECU

[0193] 81 Sensors

[0194] 91 Actuator

[0195] 101 Regional ECU

[0196] 110 Ministry of Communications

[0197] 120 Processing Department

[0198] 130 Selection Department

[0199] 140 Storage

[0200] 150 Control Department

[0201] 201 Comprehensive ECU

[0202] 301, 302 Vehicle communication system.

Claims

1. A vehicle-mounted device connected to another vehicle-mounted device via different types of transmission paths, namely a first transmission path and a second transmission path, The vehicle-mounted device comprises: Control Unit; and a sending unit, for sending communication information to the other vehicle-mounted device, The control unit selects at least one of the first transmission path and the second transmission path as the transmission path for sending the communication information according to the content of the communication information, and causes the sending unit to send the communication information via the selected transmission path. The time required for the second transmission path to be able to communicate after the second transmission path changes from a dormant state or a stopped state to an activated state is shorter than that of the first transmission path. The control unit selects the second transmission path as the transmission path for transmitting activation communication information, the activation communication information being the communication information for activating the other in-vehicle device.

2. The vehicle-mounted device according to claim 1, wherein: The control unit selects the second transmission path as the transmission path for transmitting the communication information to the other vehicle-mounted device immediately after startup.

3. The vehicle-mounted device according to claim 1, wherein: The second transmission path has a lower throughput than the first transmission path, The control unit selects the first transmission path instead of the second transmission path as the transmission path for transmitting the communication information of a set type.

4. The vehicle-mounted device according to claim 3, wherein: The control unit selects whether to use both the first transmission path and the second transmission path for transmitting the communication information or to use only one of the first transmission path and the second transmission path for transmitting the communication information, based on the priority of the communication information to be transmitted to the other vehicle-mounted device.

5. The vehicle-mounted device according to claim 3, wherein: the control unit selects both the first transmission path and the second transmission path as the transmission path for transmitting at least one of the communication information for causing the vehicle to make evasive travel and the communication information to be transmitted when another vehicle-mounted device fails, the control unit selects the first transmission path as the transmission path for transmitting at least one of the communication information to be transmitted when the vehicle is traveling normally and the communication information for performing driving assistance control of the vehicle, The control unit selects the second transmission path as the transmission path for transmitting the communication information for fault diagnosis of another in-vehicle device.

6. The vehicle-mounted device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein: The first transmission path is a transmission path in accordance with Ethernet standards, The second transmission path is a transmission path in accordance with the CAN standard, ie, the Controller Area Network standard.

7. A vehicle communication system comprising: Central vehicle mounted unit; and A plurality of peripheral vehicle-mounted devices are connected to the central vehicle-mounted device via different types of transmission paths, namely a first transmission path and a second transmission path, The plurality of peripheral vehicle-mounted devices are connected to the central vehicle-mounted device one-to-one via the first transmission path, respectively. At least part of the plurality of peripheral vehicle-mounted devices are connected to the central vehicle-mounted device in a bus-type connection manner via the second transmission path, The time required for the second transmission path to be able to communicate after the second transmission path changes from a dormant state or a stopped state to an activated state is shorter than that of the first transmission path. The central vehicle-mounted device selects the second transmission path as the transmission path for transmitting activation communication information, the activation communication information being the communication information for activating the plurality of peripheral vehicle-mounted devices.

8. The vehicle-mounted communication system according to claim 7, wherein: All of the plurality of peripheral vehicle-mounted devices are connected to the central vehicle-mounted device via one second transmission path in a bus-type connection manner.

9. A communication control method for a vehicle-mounted device connected to another vehicle-mounted device via different types of transmission paths, namely, a first transmission path and a second transmission path, The communication control method comprises the following steps: selecting at least one of the first transmission path and the second transmission path as the transmission path for transmitting the communication information according to the content of the communication information transmitted to the other vehicle-mounted device; and sending the communication information to the other vehicle-mounted device via the selected transmission path, The time required for the second transmission path to be able to communicate after the second transmission path changes from a dormant state or a stopped state to an activated state is shorter than that of the first transmission path. The communication control method further includes the step of selecting the second transmission path as the transmission path for transmitting activation communication information, wherein the activation communication information is the communication information for activating the other vehicle-mounted device.

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