In-vehicle device and control method

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to an in-vehicle device and a control method, which improve convenience for a user who rides in a vehicle. The in-vehicle device has an operator as a hardware interface, and outputs a signal for supplying power to an accessory power system of the vehicle in accordance with an operation performed on the operator.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to power supply control of a vehicle. BACKGROUND

[0002] In recent years, a vehicle in which starting of a system is performed by pressing a push button switch has been popularized. In this regard, for example, in Patent Literature 1, an invention related to a vehicle in which starting of an engine and supply of power are performed by a push button switch is disclosed.

[0003] PRIOR ART DOCUMENTS

[0004] PATENT LITERATURE

[0005] Patent Literature 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2003-301764 SUMMARY

[0006] An object of the present disclosure is to improve convenience of a user who rides a vehicle.

[0007] One aspect of an embodiment of the present disclosure provides an in-vehicle device that provides a predetermined function to an occupant of a vehicle, in which there are: an operator that is a hardware interface; and a control section that outputs a signal for supplying power to an accessory power system of the vehicle in a case where an operation is performed with respect to the operator.

[0008] One aspect of an embodiment of the present disclosure provides a control method of controlling a vehicle, in which there are: a step of acquiring an operation with respect to an operator that is a hardware interface; and a step of outputting a signal for supplying power to an accessory power system of the vehicle in a case where an operation is performed with respect to the operator, the operator being possessed by an in-vehicle device that provides a predetermined function to an occupant of the vehicle.

[0009] Further, as other aspects, there can be mentioned a program for causing a computer to execute the above-described control method, or a computer-readable storage medium in which the program is non-transitorily stored.

[0010] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to improve convenience of a user who rides a vehicle. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0011] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a vehicle system to which the first embodiment relates.

[0012] Figure 2 is a diagram that explains constituent elements that the vehicle according to the first embodiment has.

[0013] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram that explains functional modules that the control device 201 has.

[0014] Figure 4is a diagram illustrating migration of the power mode when getting on the vehicle.

[0015] Figure 5 is a diagram illustrating migration of the power mode when getting off the vehicle.

[0016] Figure 6 is a diagram showing the appearance of the in-vehicle device 200.

[0017] Figure 7 is a diagram illustrating a circuit for performing supply of power.

[0018] Figure 8 is a flowchart of the processing performed by the in-vehicle device 200.

[0019] Figure 9 is a flowchart of the processing performed by the in-vehicle device 200.

[0020] Figure 10 is a flowchart of the processing performed by the in-vehicle device 200.

[0021] (Symbol Explanation)

[0022] 10: vehicle; 100: DCM; 200: in-vehicle device; 300A: comparison ECU; 300B: body ECU; 101, 201: control device; 102, 202: storage device; 103, 203: CAN communication module; 104, 204: input / output device; 105, 205: wireless communication module; 106: GPS module; 206: operator. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0023] In a general automobile, as the power mode, there are three modes of a mode in which the power is cut off, a mode in which only the accessory power is turned on, and a mode in which all the power is turned on. The accessory power system is a power system for operating peripheral devices that have no direct relation to the running of the vehicle. In general, in a case where there is an operation (ignition operation) of a system for starting the vehicle, the supply of power to these power systems is started.

[0024] On the other hand, there is a desire to use an electronic device (for example, a multimedia terminal) possessed by the vehicle in a state in which the vehicle is not running. In such a case, it is necessary to specify a mode in which power is supplied only to the accessory power system and start the vehicle system. However, the operation for supplying power only to the accessory power system is different from the usual start operation, and thus there is a problem that it causes trouble for the user.

[0025] The information processing device according to the present disclosure solves the above problem.

[0026] One aspect of the present disclosure provides an in-vehicle device that provides a predetermined function to an occupant of a vehicle, in which there are an operator that is a hardware interface, and a control section that outputs a signal for supplying power to an accessory power system of the vehicle in a case where an operation is performed on the operator.

[0027] An in-vehicle device is a device that is mounted on a vehicle and provides a predetermined function to an occupant. The in-vehicle device is typically called a car navigation device, a multimedia terminal, an infotainment terminal, a head unit, or the like. The predetermined function refers to, for example, a car navigation function, a music playback function, a moving image playback function, a network function, a television / radio function, or the like. These functions are implemented by, for example, software.

[0028] The in-vehicle device has an operator that is a hardware interface. The operator is, for example, a push button for requesting the provision of these functions to the in-vehicle device. In a case where the functions are implemented by software, these software can be started in accordance with an operation performed on the operator. The operator can also be disposed in the vicinity of a display device (screen) that the in-vehicle device has.

[0029] The in-vehicle device according to the present embodiment detects that an operation is performed on such an operator and outputs a signal for supplying power to an accessory power system of the vehicle. For example, in a case where a user performs an operation on the operator in a state where the system of the vehicle is stopped, the in-vehicle device supplies an operation signal to a power supply relay for supplying power to the accessory power system of the vehicle.

[0030] Generally, the power supply relay supplies power to the accessory power system in conjunction with an operation on a main switch. In contrast, in the present embodiment, the in-vehicle device supplies a signal that instructs the supply of power to the accessory power system to the power supply relay, and thus can supply power to the accessory power system without passing through the main switch. In other words, by performing an operation on the operator that the in-vehicle device has, the power supply to the in-vehicle device can be turned on. Thus, the use of the in-vehicle device can be started by a more intuitive operation.

[0031] Further, in a case where power is already supplied to the accessory power system, the operator can function as an interface for starting (or ending) the predetermined function as in the past.

[0032] Hereinafter, specific embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. The hardware structure, module structure, functional structure, and the like described in each of the embodiments are not intended to limit the technical scope of the disclosure to these unless otherwise specified.

[0033] (First Embodiment)

[0034] Reference Signs List Figure 1, which explains an outline of the vehicle system according to the first embodiment. The vehicle system according to the present embodiment is configured to include a vehicle 10.

[0035] The vehicle 10 is a connected car having a communication function with an external network. The vehicle 10 is configured to include a DCM (Data Communication Module) 100, an in-vehicle device 200, and an electronic control component 300 (Electronic Control Unit, also referred to as ECU). In addition, in the present embodiment, a single ECU 300 is exemplified, but the vehicle 10 can include a plurality of ECUs 300. Figure 1

[0036] The DCM 100 is a device that performs wireless communication with an external network. The DCM 100 functions as a gateway for connecting components (hereinafter, vehicle components) that the vehicle 10 has to the external network. For example, the DCM 100 provides access to the external network with respect to the in-vehicle device 200 and the ECU 300 that the vehicle 10 has. Thereby, the in-vehicle device 200 and the ECU 300 can communicate with external devices connected to the network via the DCM 100.

[0037] The in-vehicle device 200 is a device that provides information to an occupant of the vehicle (for example, a vehicle navigation device). The in-vehicle device 200 is also referred to as a vehicle navigation device, an infotainment device, a car audio main unit. It is possible to provide navigation, entertainment with respect to an occupant of the vehicle through the in-vehicle device 200. The in-vehicle device 200 can also download traffic information, road map data, music, moving images, and the like via the DCM 100.

[0038] Figure 2 is a diagram that explains constituent elements that the vehicle 10 according to the present embodiment has. The vehicle 10 according to the present embodiment is configured to include the DCM 100, the in-vehicle device 200, and a plurality of ECUs 300A, 300B,... (hereinafter, collectively referred to as ECU 300).

[0039] The ECU 300 can include a plurality of ECUs that govern different vehicle components. As the plurality of ECUs, for example, a body ECU, an engine ECU, a hybrid ECU, a drive train ECU, and the like can be exemplified. In addition, the ECU 300 can be divided in a functional unit. For example, it is also possible to distinguish an ECU that executes a safety function, an ECU that executes an automatic parking function, an ECU that executes a remote control function.

[0040] ​In the present embodiment, as the ECU 300, a control ECU 300A and a body ECU 300B are exemplified. The control ECU 300A is an ECU that governs the safety of the vehicle. The control ECU 300A generates a signal that permits the locking and unlocking of the vehicle, and the starting of the vehicle system, by communicating with a smart key (key card) held by the user of the vehicle.

[0041] The body ECU 300B is an ECU that governs various components possessed by the vehicle body. In the present embodiment, the body ECU 300B can perform the locking and unlocking of the doors possessed by the vehicle 10, in accordance with the signal transmitted from the control ECU 300A.

[0042] First, the DCM 100 will be described.

[0043] The DCM 100 is configured to have a control device 101, a storage device 102, a CAN communication module 103, an input / output device 104, a wireless communication module 105, and a GPS module 106.

[0044] The control device 101 is an arithmetic unit that realizes various functions of the DCM 100 by executing a predetermined program. The control device 101 can also be realized by a CPU or the like, for example.

[0045] The control device 101 performs a function of relaying communication between an external network and a component (vehicle component) possessed by the vehicle 10. For example, in a case where a certain vehicle component needs to communicate with the external network, the control device 101 performs a function of relaying data transmitted from the vehicle component to the external network. In addition, a function of receiving data transmitted from the external network and transferring the data to an appropriate vehicle component is performed.

[0046] Further, the control device 101 can perform a function unique to the device. For example, the control device 101 is configured to be able to perform a monitoring function of a safety system, a talk function, and can perform a safety notification, an emergency notification, or the like in accordance with a trigger occurring in the vehicle.

[0047] Here, the functions performed by the control device 101 will be described. The control device 101 is configured to be able to perform the functions exemplified below. Each function can be realized by the control device 101 executing a program stored in a ROM or the like.

[0048] (1) Data Relay Function

[0049] The control device 101 can relay data transmitted and received between vehicle components. For example, a process of receiving a message sent out by a first device connected to the in-vehicle network and transferring the message to a second device connected to the in-vehicle network as needed is performed. The first and second devices can be the ECU 300 or other vehicle components.

[0050] In addition, in a case where a message is received from a vehicle component as a destination of an external network, the message is relayed to the external network. In addition, data transmitted from the external network is received, and the data is transmitted to an appropriate vehicle component.

[0051] (2) Emergency notification function

[0052] The control device 101 is capable of making an emergency notification to an operator outside the vehicle 10 in a case where an abnormal situation occurs in the vehicle 10. As one example of the abnormal situation, a traffic accident or a vehicle breakdown can be given. The control device 101 is capable of starting contact with the operator and making a conversation between an occupant of the vehicle and the operator, for example, in a case where a predetermined trigger such as a press of a call button provided in the vehicle or deployment of an airbag occurs. In addition, the control device 101 can transmit position information of the vehicle to the operator at the time of the emergency notification. The position information of the vehicle can be acquired from the GPS module 106.

[0053] (3) Safety monitoring function

[0054] The control device 101 is capable of making a safety notification to a predetermined device in a case where the vehicle is unlocked without following a legal procedure, for example, on the basis of data received from the ECU 300 that governs an electronic lock of the vehicle. In addition, the position information of the vehicle can be included in the safety notification. The position information of the vehicle can be acquired from the GPS module 106.

[0055] In addition, three functions are exemplified herein as the functions provided by the DCM 100, but the DCM 100 can provide functions other than these.

[0056] The storage device 102 is a memory device including a main storage device and an auxiliary storage device. In the auxiliary storage device, an operating system (OS), various programs, various tables, and the like are stored, and each function in accordance with a predetermined purpose as described later can be realized by loading the program stored therein to the main storage device and executing it.

[0057] The CAN communication module 103 is an interface component for connecting the DCM 100 to a vehicle-mounted network. In the present embodiment, a plurality of vehicle components including the vehicle-mounted device 200 and the ECU 300 are connected to each other via a bus of the vehicle-mounted network. As a specification of the vehicle-mounted network, for example, a CAN (Controller Area Network) can be exemplified. In addition, in a case where the vehicle-mounted network is a network using a plurality of specifications, the CAN communication module 103 can have a plurality of interface devices in accordance with the specification of the communication destination. As a communication specification other than the CAN, for example, an Ethernet (registered trademark) or the like can be exemplified.

[0058] The input / output device 104 is a component that performs input and output of information. Specifically, it is configured to include a help button that is pressed in an emergency, a microphone, a speaker, and the like.

[0059] The wireless communication module 105 includes an antenna and a communication module for performing wireless communication. The antenna is an antenna element that performs input and output of wireless signals. In the present embodiment, the antenna is suitable for mobile body communication (for example, 3G, LTE, 5G, or the like). In addition, the antenna can also be configured to include a plurality of physical antennas. For example, in the case of mobile body communication using microwaves, millimeter waves, or the like, in order to achieve stabilization of communication, a plurality of antennas can also be dispersedly arranged. The communication module is a module for performing mobile body communication.

[0060] The GPS module 106 includes a GPS antenna and a positioning module for performing positioning of position information. The GPS antenna is an antenna that receives a positioning signal transmitted from a positioning satellite (also referred to as a GNSS satellite). The positioning module is a module that calculates position information based on a signal received by the GPS antenna.

[0061] In addition, the DCM 100 can also be configured to be able to act independently of other components possessed by the vehicle 10. For example, an auxiliary battery can also be built into the DCM 100, and it can act independently of an external power source. According to the above-described structure, even in the case where other components of the vehicle 10 are inoperable (for example, power supply is poor, or the like) due to a traffic accident or the like, emergency notification or the like can be performed.

[0062] Next, the on-vehicle device 200 will be described.

[0063] The on-vehicle device 200 is a device that provides information to an occupant of the vehicle 10, and is also referred to as a vehicle navigation system, an infotainment system, or a car audio main unit. The on-vehicle device 200 can provide navigation and entertainment to an occupant of the vehicle. In addition, the on-vehicle device 200 can also have a function of downloading traffic information, road map data, music, moving images, or the like by communicating with an external network of the vehicle 10. In addition, the on-vehicle device 200 can also be a device that cooperates with a smartphone or the like.

[0064] In addition, the on-vehicle device 200 also functions as a front end of the DCM 100. For example, the on-vehicle device 200 performs input and output of information associated with a predetermined process (for example, display of a calling situation of an operator, or the like) when the DCM 100 performs the predetermined process (for example, emergency notification).

[0065] The in-vehicle device 200 can be constituted by a general-purpose computer. That is, the in-vehicle device 200 can be constituted as a computer having a processor such as a CPU, a GPU, a main storage device such as a RAM, a ROM, an auxiliary storage device such as an EPROM, a hard disk drive, and a removable medium. In the auxiliary storage device, an operating system (OS), various programs, various tables, and the like are stored, and by executing the programs stored therein, each function in accordance with a predetermined purpose as described later can be realized. However, a part or all of the functions can also be realized by a hardware circuit such as an ASIC or an FPGA.

[0066] The in-vehicle device 200 is constituted to have a control device 201, a storage device 202, a CAN communication module 203, an input / output device 204, a wireless communication module 205, and an operator 206.

[0067] The control device 201 is an arithmetic unit that realizes various functions of the in-vehicle device 200 by executing a predetermined program. The control device 201 can also be realized by a CPU or the like, for example.

[0068] Figure 3 is a diagram showing the structure of a functional module that the control device 201 has.

[0069] The control device 201 is constituted to have two functional modules, a power management unit 2011 and a function execution unit 2012. Each functional module can also be realized by executing a stored program by a CPU.

[0070] The power management unit 2011 performs control relating to power supply.

[0071] Here, the problems of the related art and the solution in the present embodiment relating to power supply will be described. Further, in the following description, an accessory power system refers to a power system for operating peripheral devices that have no direct relation to the running of the vehicle. For example, the accessory power system is supplied with power in a state where the engine is stopped. In addition, an ignition power system refers to a power system that is supplied with power during the operation of the vehicle (for example, during the operation of the engine). Each power system is supplied with power through a power line of a different system.

[0072] Further, in the following description, a power mode refers to a mode for supplying power to a plurality of vehicle components. The power modes in the related art vehicle are the following three.

[0073] 1. Parking mode

[0074] 2. Accessory mode

[0075] 3. Normal mode

[0076] The parking mode is a power supply mode in a state where the vehicle is parked, that is, a state where the running system of the vehicle is shut down and the doors are locked. In the parking mode, power is not supplied to vehicle components other than those that always need to be supplied with power (for example, a DRAM for memory backup, a DCM for wireless communication, a module that performs CAN communication, and the like).

[0077] The accessory mode is a power supply mode in which power is supplied only to the accessory power system. For example, by a predetermined operation by the user of the vehicle, it is possible to shift to the accessory mode.

[0078] The normal mode is a power supply mode in which power is supplied to both the accessory power system and the ignition power system. In a case where the vehicle 10 is running, the power supply mode becomes the normal mode.

[0079] Figure 4 (A) is a diagram illustrating power supply control in a vehicle according to the related art. In the vehicle according to the related art, before a passenger gets in the vehicle and a start operation of the vehicle system is performed (for example, an ignition operation of an ignition, a push operation of a main switch, and the like), the power supply mode remains the parking mode as it is. That is, during this period, power is not supplied to most of the vehicle components.

[0080] When the passenger performs a start operation of the vehicle system (for example, an operation of pressing down the main switch while the brake pedal is depressed), the power supply mode becomes the normal mode. This mode is a mode for running the vehicle. On the other hand, in a case where it is intended to use only electronic devices in a state where the vehicle is not running, it is necessary to start the vehicle system by a power supply mode in which power is supplied only to the accessory power system (the accessory mode). As such an operation, for example, there is an example of "pressing down the main switch without depressing the brake pedal". However, the operation of supplying power only to the accessory power system is different from a normal operation, and thus the user sometimes does not know the operation method.

[0081] Therefore, in the present embodiment, the on-vehicle device 200 also has a function for starting supply of power to the accessory power system. Specifically, a structure in which "in a case where a predetermined operation is performed with respect to the on-vehicle device in a state where the vehicle system is stopped, supply of power to the accessory power system of the vehicle is started" is introduced.

[0082] Figure 4(B) is a diagram illustrating the migration of the power mode in this embodiment. The in-vehicle device 200 (power management section 2011) according to this embodiment outputs a signal for supplying power to the accessory power system while there is an operation with respect to the device, and the vehicle starts supplying power to the accessory power system in correspondence therewith. Thereby, during the period until the operation of starting the vehicle system is performed, the electronic equipment of the vehicle 10 can be used. Further, in the case where there is a starting operation of the vehicle system, power is supplied to the accessory power system and the ignition power system as in the past.

[0083] Further, the in-vehicle device 200 according to this embodiment controls the accessory power system also at the time when the occupant gets off. Figure 5 (A) is a diagram illustrating the power mode at the time of getting off.

[0084] For example, in the case where the occupant performs an operation of cutting off the power of the vehicle system, the power mode is migrated to the parking mode, and the power supply with respect to most of the vehicle components is stopped. Therefore, during the period from stopping the vehicle system to the occupant getting off, the in-vehicle device 200 cannot be used. That is, the user's expectation that entertainment or information is provided even after the vehicle system is stopped cannot be dealt with.

[0085] Therefore, in this embodiment, the in-vehicle device 200 performs control to maintain the supply of power to the accessory power system during the period from the operation of cutting off the power of the vehicle system to the occurrence of a trigger relating to the occupant getting off.

[0086] Figure 5 (B) is a diagram illustrating the migration of the power mode in this embodiment. As illustrated in the figure, the in-vehicle device 200 (power management section 2011) according to this embodiment also maintains the supply of power to the accessory power system after the occupant performs an operation of cutting off the power of the vehicle system. The supply of power to the accessory power system is continued until the occupant gets off the vehicle. The end of this period can be set to, for example, the timing at which the door of the vehicle is opened (or the timing at which an operation of locking the door of the vehicle is performed).

[0087] Further, the power management section 2011 is configured to be able to operate with low power by means of a power system that is independent of the accessory power system (for example, a power system directly connected to a battery). The in-vehicle device 200 can receive an operation for turning on the accessory power using this battery power even in a state where the vehicle system is stopped, and output a signal for supplying power to the accessory power system. Further, in the operation of the function execution section 2012, power needs to be supplied from the accessory power system.

[0088] Returning to Figure 3 , the explanation will be continued.

[0089] The function execution unit 2012 executes various functions provided by the in-vehicle device 200. As the functions provided by the in-vehicle device 200, for example, there are, for example, the following examples.

[0090] • Terminal linking function

[0091] A function of connecting with a terminal (smartphone or the like) possessed by an occupant of the vehicle, and playing music or animation, mirroring a screen, and the like.

[0092] • Getting-off support function

[0093] A function of detecting another vehicle approaching from behind the vehicle 10 based on sensor data output from a sensor possessed by the vehicle 10, and outputting an alarm when a door is opened. The sensor can be, for example, a radar sensor or the like disposed toward the rear of the vehicle.

[0094] • Audio function

[0095] A function of playing a musical piece stored in a storage device.

[0096] • Television / radio function

[0097] A function of receiving radio broadcast, digital television broadcast.

[0098] • Navigation function

[0099] A function of providing route guidance based on map data stored in a storage device.

[0100] These functions can be started, for example, in accordance with operation of the operator 206 and the input / output device 204 (touch panel).

[0101] Returning to Figure 2 , the description will continue.

[0102] The storage device 202 is a unit that stores information, and is constituted by a RAM, a disk, a flash memory, or the like. In the storage device 202, various programs executed by the control device 201, data used by the programs, and the like are stored.

[0103] The CAN communication module 203 is a communication interface that connects the in-vehicle device 200 to a bus of an in-vehicle network.

[0104] The input / output device 204 is a unit that accepts an input operation performed by a user, and that prompts information to the user. Specifically, it is constituted by a touch panel and a control unit thereof, a liquid crystal display and a control unit thereof. The touch panel and the liquid crystal display are constituted by one touch panel display in the present embodiment.

[0105] The input / output device 204 can also include a component that outputs sound (amplifier, speaker), a component that inputs sound (microphone), and the like.

[0106] The wireless communication module 205 is a module that communicates with a portable terminal (smartphone or the like) held by an occupant of the vehicle. The wireless communication module 205 is capable of communicating, for example, using a wireless communication standard such as Bluetooth (registered trademark), Wi-Fi (registered trademark), or the like.

[0107] The operator 206 is a hardware switch (physical switch) provided to the in-vehicle device 200. The in-vehicle device 200 according to the present embodiment is capable of being operated using the hardware switch in addition to the touch panel. The operator 206 includes, for example, a keyboard, a cursor key, a rotary encoder, a linear encoder, or the like. Figure 6 FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of the operator 206, and is a diagram in which a panel provided to the in-vehicle device 200 is viewed from the front.

[0108] The symbol 601 is a rotary selector that operates a dial-shaped operator in a circumferential direction. An encoder is connected to the selector, and is configured to be capable of acquiring an operation direction (direction of rotation) and an operation amount (for example, rotation angle, number of clicks). According to this configuration, value change and cursor movement can be smoothly performed.

[0109] The symbol 602 is an on / off switching switch for switching a state. By moving the switch, for example, it is possible to change an operating state of a defroster, a rearview mirror heater, a steering wheel heater, a seat heater, or the like.

[0110] The symbol 603 is a switch that is a combination of both a rotary selector and a key switch. In the present embodiment, the symbol 603 is a switch (hereinafter, a function switch) that is required to provide a predetermined function to the in-vehicle device 200. For example, the function switch can be a switch that starts and ends software that provides an audiovisual function. For example, when the function switch is pressed, software that performs music playback, image playback, television / radio reception, or the like is started.

[0111] Further, by rotating the function switch in the circumferential direction, it is possible to notify the control device 201 of a value change. Thereby, for example, it is possible to use the function switch as an interface for adjusting a volume, an interface for performing function selection. For example, it is also possible to start software that provides an audiovisual function by pressing the function switch, and then perform switching of a function by rotating the function switch.

[0112] The operator in the present disclosure refers to the switch illustrated by the symbol 603.

[0113] Next, the ECU 300 and its peripheral components will be described.

[0114] The ECU 300 is an electronic control unit that controls components of the vehicle 10. The ECU 300 included in the vehicle 10 can also be plural. The plural ECUs 300 control components of different systems, such as an engine system, an electronic device system, a drive system, and the like, respectively. The ECU 300 has a function of generating a predetermined message and transmitting and receiving the message periodically via an in-vehicle network.

[0115] The ECU 300 can be configured as a computer having a CPU, a GPU, or the like, a main storage device such as a RAM, a ROM, and the like, an auxiliary storage device such as an EPROM, a disk drive, a removable medium, and the like, similarly to the DCM 100.

[0116] The vehicle 10 according to the present embodiment includes a contrast ECU 300A and a body ECU 300B.

[0117] The body ECU 300B is a computer that performs body control of the vehicle. The body ECU 300B has a function of performing unlocking and locking of a door of the vehicle by controlling a door lock motor 303 described later. Further, the body ECU 300B can also have a function of performing control of elements associated with the vehicle body, such as power window control, seat adjustment, theft prevention, seat belt control, headlight control, and the like. In addition, the body ECU 300B can acquire an open / close state of a door of the vehicle 10 via a door sensor 304 described later.

[0118] The door lock motor 303 is an actuator that locks and unlocks a door (including a trunk in addition to a door for getting on and off the vehicle and a rear door) of the vehicle 10. The door lock motor 303 operates according to a signal transmitted from the body ECU 300B.

[0119] The door sensor 304 is a sensor that senses an open / close state of a plurality of doors of the vehicle 10.

[0120] The contrast ECU 300A communicates with a smart key (a key card) held by an occupant of the vehicle and determines whether a person with a legitimate authority wants to get on the vehicle. The contrast ECU 300A is connected to a main switch 301 and a transceiver 302.

[0121] The main switch 301 is a hardware switch for starting a vehicle system, and is typically a push button switch. The main switch 301 is also referred to as an ignition switch.

[0122] The transceiver 302 includes a unit that receives an electric wave of a high frequency band (RF band) transmitted from the smart key, and a unit that transmits an electric wave of a low frequency band (LF band) for searching (inquiring) the smart key. The RF band is, for example, a frequency of 100 MHz to 1 GHz. In addition, the LF band is, for example, a frequency of 100 kHz to 300 kHz. The unit that receives the electric wave of the RF band is built in an arbitrary place in the vehicle cabin. In addition, the unit that transmits the electric wave of the LF band is, for example, built in the vicinity of the center console, the steering wheel in the vehicle cabin.

[0123] In a case where the smart key transmits a signal for causing the vehicle door to be locked or unlocked (lock / unlock signal), the lock / unlock signal is received by the matching ECU 300A via the transceiver 302, and authentication is performed. Specifically, it is determined whether the key ID included in the lock / unlock signal coincides with the key ID stored in advance in the matching ECU 300A. In a case where the authentication is successful, the matching ECU 300A transmits a signal for causing the lock or the unlock of the vehicle door to the body ECU 200B in accordance with the lock / unlock signal.

[0124] In addition, in a case where the lock / unlock switch provided to the vehicle door of the vehicle 10 is pressed, the matching ECU 300A performs inquiring via the transceiver 302, confirms the presence of the key, and performs authentication. In a case where the authentication is successful, the matching ECU 300A transmits a signal for causing the lock or the unlock of the vehicle door to the body ECU 200B.

[0125] In a case where the main switch 301 is pressed, the matching ECU 300A performs inquiring via the transceiver 302, confirms the presence of the key, and performs authentication. In a case where the authentication is successful, the matching ECU 300A transmits a signal indicating the start of the system to an ECU (engine ECU, hybrid ECU, or the like. Hereinafter, referred to as a main ECU) that governs the running system. Thereby, the start of the hybrid system, the start of the engine, or the like is performed.

[0126] The network bus is a communication bus that constitutes the in-vehicle network. Furthermore, in this example, one bus is exemplified, but the vehicle 10 can have two or more communication buses. The plurality of communication buses can be connected to each other by the DCM 100, a gateway that concentrates the plurality of communication buses.

[0127] Next, a method in which the in-vehicle device 200 (the power supply management unit 2011) controls the accessory power supply system will be described. Figure 7 is a diagram that exemplifies a plurality of power supply systems that the vehicle 10 has, and a structure for applying a voltage to these power supply systems.

[0128] The vehicle 10 has three power supply systems, a battery power supply system, an accessory power supply system, and an ignition power supply system. Any one of the systems is supplied with power by the battery 400 mounted on the vehicle 10.

[0129] The battery power supply system is a system to which power is supplied from the battery 400.

[0130] The accessory power supply system is a system to which power is supplied in the case where the power supply mode is the accessory mode or the normal mode. The supply of power to the accessory power supply system is controlled by the ACC relay 400A.

[0131] The ignition power supply system is a system to which power is supplied in the case where the power supply mode is the normal mode. The supply of power to the ignition power supply system is controlled by the IG relay 400B.

[0132] The method of controlling the ACC relay 400A and the IG relay 400B will be described.

[0133] As described above, a person who has a legitimate authority in view of the ECU 300A wants to get on the vehicle. In the case where the main switch 301 is pressed down, the ECU 300A authenticates the smart key by wireless communication, and in the case where the authentication is successful, switches the power supply mode to one of the accessory mode or the normal mode.

[0134] In the case where the power supply mode is switched to the accessory mode, the ECU 300A supplies an operation signal to the ACC relay 400A, and causes the relay to operate. Thereby, the power from the battery is supplied to the accessory power supply system.

[0135] In the case where the power supply mode is switched to the normal mode, the ECU 300A supplies operation signals to both the ACC relay 400A and the IG relay 400B, and causes the relays to operate. Thereby, the power from the battery is supplied to the accessory power supply system and the ignition power supply system.

[0136] These operations are operations in the vehicle related to the related art.

[0137] On the other hand, in the present embodiment, as shown by a dashed line in the figure, the on-vehicle device 200 is configured to be able to supply an operation signal to the ACC relay 400A.

[0138] The on-vehicle device 200 supplies an operation signal to the ACC relay 400A in the case where there is an operation to the operator 206, and causes the relay to operate. Thereby, it is possible to supply power to the accessory power supply system in response to the operation to the on-vehicle device 200. Further, it is possible to detect the operation to the operator 206 and the output of the operation signal by the battery power supply system with low power.

[0139] Next, the processing by the on-vehicle device 200 and the authentication ECU 300A will be described.

[0140] Figure 8 is a flowchart of the process executed by the in-vehicle device 200 (the power management section 2011). The illustrated process starts when the operator 206 (the function switch) is pressed down.

[0141] First, in step Sll, it is determined whether or not the power source is supplied from the accessory power system possessed by the vehicle 10. In the case where the power source is supplied to the in-vehicle device 200 from the accessory power system, affirmative determination is made in this step. In the case where the in-vehicle device 200 is operated by the power from the battery power system, not the power from the accessory power system, negative determination is made in this step.

[0142] In step S12, the operation signal is supplied to the ACC relay 400A, and the relay is operated. Thereby, the power source is supplied from the accessory power system. When the power source is supplied to the in-vehicle device 200 from the accessory power system, the function execution section 2012 can be operated, and various functions can be provided.

[0143] In the case where the function switch is pressed down in the state where the power source is supplied from the accessory power system of the vehicle, the process proceeds to step S13, and the in-vehicle device 200 switches ON / OFF of a predetermined function (for example, the audiovisual function).

[0144] Figure 9 is a flowchart of the process executed by the ECU 300A in the case where the main switch 301 is pressed down.

[0145] First, in step S21, it is determined whether or not the vehicle 10 is in the state of parking (that is, whether or not the vehicle system is in the state of stop). In the case where negative determination is made in this step (that is, in the case where the vehicle system is in the state of start), the process proceeds to step S22.

[0146] In step S22, the main ECU for the running system is instructed to shut down the running system, and the operation signal is stopped from being supplied to the IG relay 400B. Thereby, the ignition power system is cut off.

[0147] Further, in this step, the ECU 300A also stops the operation signal from being supplied to the ACC relay 400A. However, in the case where the in-vehicle device 200 is in use, the operation signal is supplied to the ACC relay 400A from the in-vehicle device 200, so as a result, the power supply to the accessory power system is maintained. The power supply to the accessory power system is continued until the occupant gets off (described later).

[0148] In the case where affirmative determination is made in step S21, the process proceeds to step S23.

[0149] In step S23, the control ECU 300A determines whether the smart key is detected in the vehicle. In the case where the smart key is not detected in the vehicle, the process ends. In the case where the smart key is detected in the vehicle, the process proceeds to step S24.

[0150] In step S24, it is determined whether the process of supplying power to the accessory power system is in progress. In the case where power is supplied to the control ECU 300A from the accessory power system, affirmative determination is made in this step, and the process proceeds to step S25. In the case where the control ECU 300A is not operated by power from the accessory power system but by power from the battery power system, negative determination is made, and the process proceeds to step S26.

[0151] The case where the process proceeds to step S25 is the case where the main switch 301 is pressed in the state where power is supplied to the accessory power system. In the above case, the control ECU 300A instructs the main ECU to start the running system, and at the same time, supplies an operation signal to the IG relay 400B. Thereby, the supply of power to the ignition power system is started.

[0152] The case where the process proceeds to step S26 is the case where the main switch 301 is pressed in the state where power is not supplied to the accessory power system. In the above case, the control ECU 300A instructs the main ECU to start the running system. Also, at the same time, an operation signal is supplied to the ACC relay 400A and the IG relay 400B. Thereby, the supply of power to the accessory power system and the ignition power system is started.

[0153] On the other hand, the in-vehicle device 200 continues to supply power to the accessory power system (in other words, continues to supply an operation signal to the ACC relay 400A) during the period in which the predetermined function is operating. The supply of the operation signal is continued until the function switch is pressed (in order to stop the function of the in-vehicle device 200) or the occupant gets out of the vehicle.

[0154] Figure 10 This is a flowchart of the process performed by the in-vehicle device 200 (the power management section 2011) in the state where power is supplied only to the accessory power system.

[0155] In step S31, it is determined whether a predetermined time (for example, 3 minutes) has elapsed in the state where power is supplied only to the accessory power system. In the case where affirmative determination is made in this step, the process proceeds to step S32, and the power saving mode is shifted to. The power saving mode is a mode for suppressing power consumption. In the power saving mode, for example, the accessory power system is shut off. The reason for this is that, in the case where a certain time has elapsed in the state where power is supplied only to the accessory power system, it is preferable to stop the supply of power to the accessory power system in order to suppress the power consumption of the battery.

[0156] In step S33, it is determined whether the door of the vehicle is open. The door of the vehicle can be determined to be open in accordance with the door open / close signal output from the body ECU 300B. In the case where affirmative determination is made in this step, the process moves to step S34. In the case where negative determination is made, the process returns to step S31.

[0157] In step S34, the supply of the operation signal to the ACC relay 400A is stopped. Thereby, the supply of power to the accessory power system ends.

[0158] As explained above, the in-vehicle device 200 according to the present embodiment can supply the signal for supplying power to the accessory power system of the vehicle to the ACC relay 400A without passing through the main switch 301. Thereby, the power can be supplied to the accessory power system of the vehicle only by the occupant of the vehicle pressing the operation of the switch provided in the in-vehicle device 200. For example, by pressing the switch for starting the audiovisual function of the in-vehicle device 200, the power can be supplied to the accessory power system, so intuitive operation can be performed.

[0159] (Modified Example of First Embodiment)

[0160] In the first embodiment, in the case where the door of the vehicle 10 is open, it is determined that the occupant gets off the vehicle, but the getting-off of the occupant can be detected by other methods. For example, the getting-off or the intention of getting-off of the occupant from the vehicle can be detected by a sensor, a camera, or the like. Further, it can be determined that the occupant gets off the vehicle in the case where the door of the vehicle 10 is locked.

[0161] (Other Modified Examples)

[0162] The above-described embodiments are merely examples, and the present disclosure can be implemented with appropriate modifications without departing from the gist thereof.

[0163] For example, the processes and units explained in the present disclosure can be freely combined and implemented as long as there is no technical contradiction.

[0164] Further, the processes explained as being performed by one device can be executed by a plurality of devices in a shared manner. Alternatively, the processes explained as being performed by different devices can be executed by one device. In a computer system, each function can be implemented by a flexible hardware structure (server structure).

[0165] The present disclosure can also be realized by supplying a computer program installed with the functions described in the above-described embodiments to a computer, the computer reading and executing the program with one or more processors possessed by the computer. Such a computer program can be supplied to the computer through a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium connectable to a system bus of the computer, or can be supplied to the computer via a network. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium includes, for example, any type of disk (floppy disk (registered trademark), hard disk drive (HDD), etc.), optical disk (CD-ROM, DVD disk, Blu-ray (registered trademark) disk, etc.), and the like, read only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), EPROM, EEPROM, magnetic card, flash memory, optical card, and any type of medium suitable for storing electronic commands.

Claims

1. An in-vehicle device that provides predetermined functions for vehicle occupants, wherein, have: As an operator for a hardware interface; and The control unit, when the occupants of the vehicle enter the vehicle and before the ignition switch of the vehicle is pressed, outputs a signal to the ACC relay to activate the ACC relay to supply power to the vehicle's accessory power system, thereby providing the predetermined function, after the occupants of the vehicle turn off the ignition switch; and when the vehicle door is opened, stops supplying the signal to the ACC relay.

2. The vehicle-mounted device according to claim 1, wherein, The actuator is a button used to request the provision of the predetermined function.

3. The vehicle-mounted device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The predetermined functions include at least audio functions.

4. The vehicle-mounted device according to claim 1, wherein, The ACC relay is a relay that applies a predetermined voltage to a power system used to operate predetermined accessories of the vehicle.

5. The vehicle-mounted device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The ACC relay is a relay that supplies power to the vehicle's accessory power system in conjunction with the operation of the vehicle's start switch.

6. The vehicle-mounted device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, When the vehicle's accessory power system has been powered and the operator has been operated, the control unit provides the predetermined function.

7. The vehicle-mounted device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, If the vehicle's accessory power system is not powered and the operator is operated, the control unit outputs the signal. When the vehicle's accessory power system has been powered and the operator has been operated, the control unit provides the predetermined function.

8. The vehicle-mounted device according to claim 6, wherein, If the operator is operated during the provision of the predetermined function, the control unit terminates the provision of the predetermined function.

9. The vehicle-mounted device according to claim 6, wherein, The control unit provides the predetermined function using power from the accessory power supply system.

10. A control method for controlling a vehicle, wherein, include: Obtain the steps for operating the actuator that serves as the hardware interface; Before the ignition switch of the vehicle is pressed after the occupants have entered the vehicle, and if the operator has been activated, a signal is output to the ACC relay to activate it and supply power to the vehicle's accessory power system, thereby providing a predetermined function; after the occupants turn off the ignition switch, the output of the signal to the ACC relay to activate it and supply power to the vehicle's accessory power system continues, thereby providing the predetermined function; when the vehicle door is opened, the supply of the signal to the ACC relay is stopped. The operator is provided by an onboard device that offers predetermined functions to the occupants of the vehicle.

11. The control method according to claim 10, wherein, The actuator is a button used to request the provision of the predetermined function.

12. The control method according to claim 10 or 11, wherein, The predetermined functions include at least audio functions.

13. The control method according to claim 10, wherein, The ACC relay is a relay that applies a predetermined voltage to a power system used to operate predetermined accessories of the vehicle.

14. The control method according to claim 10 or 11, wherein, The ACC relay is a relay that supplies power to the vehicle's accessory power system in conjunction with the operation of the vehicle's start switch.

15. The control method according to claim 10 or 11, wherein, The predetermined function is provided when the vehicle's accessory power system has been powered and the operator has been operated.

16. The control method according to claim 10 or 11, wherein, The signal is output when the vehicle's accessory power system is not powered and the operator is operated. The predetermined function is provided when the vehicle's accessory power system has been powered and the operator has been operated.

17. The control method according to claim 15, wherein, If the operator is operated during the provision of the predetermined function, the provision of the predetermined function shall be terminated.

18. The control method according to claim 15, wherein, The predetermined function is provided by power from the power supply system of the accessory.

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