Vehicle circuit body

Abstract

A vehicle circuit body is equipped with: a backbone bus line (BB_LM) extending at least in a front-rear direction of a vehicle; a plurality of control boxes (CB) provided on the backbone bus line; and a branch line (LS) connecting the control boxes with accessories (AE). The backbone bus line and the branch line (LS) are each provided with a power line (L1, L2B) having a predetermined current capacity and a communication line (Lx) having a predetermined communication capacity. The control boxes are provided with a switching circuit (CBb), a bridging circuit (CBc), and a connection portion (Cnx) serving as a branch line connection portion connected to the branch line, and a microcomputer (CBa) that distributes power from the backbone bus line to the branch line by controlling the branch line connection portion in accordance with a control program. The control program is capable of being changed from the outside based on the accessories connected to the branch line.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application based on patent application No. 201780039122.3 (PCT / JP2017 / 023306) filed on June 23, 2017, entitled "Vehicle Circuit System" (entry into the Chinese national phase on December 24, 2018). Technical Field

[0002] This invention relates to a vehicle electrical circuit installed in a vehicle. Background Technology

[0003] In vehicles, for example, it is necessary to properly supply power from an alternator (generator) or battery, which serves as the main power source, to a large number of various electrical components. It is also required that the system used to supply such power has the function of switching the power supply on and off as needed, or the function of cutting off the current to each system in the event of an overcurrent flowing through the electrical components.

[0004] In a typical vehicle, a wiring harness, consisting of multiple wires, is laid out throughout the vehicle. The main power supply connects to electrical components in various locations via the wiring harness, thereby supplying power to them. Typically, terminal blocks are used to distribute power to multiple systems, relay boxes are used to control the switching on and off of power supply to each system, or fuse boxes are used to protect the individual wires or loads within the wiring harness.

[0005] The vehicle is equipped with multiple control units for controlling electrical components, and the control units and electrical components are communicatively connected to each other via wiring harnesses.

[0006] For example, the wiring harness disclosed in Patent Document 1 includes a network transmission path and circuitry for providing power, GND, and other signals. The wiring harness includes a wiring harness trunk, sub-wiring harnesses, optional sub-wiring harnesses, and a network hub device.

[0007] Reference List

[0008] Patent documents

[0009] [Patent Document 1] JP-A-2005-78962 Summary of the Invention

[0010] Technical issues

[0011] In recent years, vehicle systems, including such power or communication systems, have evolved due to the increased number of electrical components and the complexity of control. Autonomous driving technology is developing rapidly, and to address this, the safety requirements for various functions are also increasing.

[0012] At the same time, the structure of wiring harnesses installed on the vehicle body tends to be more complex. Therefore, for example, as in Patent Document 1, wiring harnesses with complex overall shapes are formed by combining main wiring harnesses, sub-wiring harnesses, and optional sub-wiring harnesses, and thus connections to various electrical components installed in various parts of the vehicle body can be made.

[0013] Because the diameter or number of individual wires forming a wiring harness increases with the number of electrical components installed in the vehicle, there is a trend towards an increase in the overall size and weight of the wiring harness. Differences between vehicle models with wiring harnesses or the increase in the types of optional electrical components installed in the vehicle lead to an increase in the types and number of wiring harnesses to be manufactured, making it difficult to standardize the components forming the wiring harness and increasing component or manufacturing costs.

[0014] In the process of manufacturing wire harnesses, in order to achieve the desired layout shape, the bundles of multiple wires forming the harness are dragged a long distance along a pre-specified path, thus requiring a significant amount of operation time. Since almost all the wires are concentrated in the trunk section of the harness, the number of bundled wires increases, thereby increasing its weight.

[0015] For example, when new electrical components not anticipated in the initial design are installed on a vehicle, new wires need to be added to the wiring harness to ensure a path for transmitting specific signals between these components and other electrical components, or to supply power to them. However, wiring harnesses have complex structures or shapes, and it is very difficult to add other wires to existing wiring harnesses in the future. Therefore, it is necessary to design new wiring harnesses of different types or part numbers to manufacture them as independent products.

[0016] In vehicles, due to differences in vehicle type, class, destination, and optional equipment, different numbers or types of electrical components (accessories) are connected for each vehicle. If the number or type of electrical components changes, the wiring harness configuration can be altered. New types of electrical components not anticipated during the vehicle's design may be added to the vehicle in the future. In this case, preferably, the added electrical components can be used simply by connecting to existing wiring harnesses already installed in the vehicle. Preferably, the connection locations of the individual electrical components can be varied as needed. Preferably, even if the type of vehicle, the number or type of electrical components to be connected changes, the wiring harnesses can be configured using universal components.

[0017] The present invention was made with the above considerations in mind, and the object of the present invention is to provide a vehicle electrical system in which the structure of electrical connections between various electrical components and the power supply on the vehicle, as well as between electrical components, is simplified, particularly the structure of the trunk section, and new wires can be easily added.

[0018] Solution to the problem

[0019] In order to achieve the above objectives, the characteristics of the vehicle circuit body according to the present invention are as follows (1) and (2).

[0020] (1) A vehicle electrical circuit installed in a vehicle, comprising:

[0021] The trunk line extends at least in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle;

[0022] Multiple control boxes are disposed in the main line; and

[0023] A branch line connects the control box to the accessory.

[0024] Both the trunk line and the branch line include a power line with a predetermined current capacity and a communication line with a predetermined communication capacity.

[0025] The control box includes: a branch line connector connected to the branch line; and a branch line control unit that distributes power from the trunk line to the branch line by controlling the branch line connector according to a control program.

[0026] The control program can be modified externally based on the accessories connected to the branch line.

[0027] This configuration allows for the supply of appropriate power from the main line to the accessories via branch lines by changing the control program, regardless of the type of accessory connected to the branch line.

[0028] (2) In the vehicle circuit body according to (1) above, the branch connection includes a plurality of connectors respectively connected to the ends of the branch, and the plurality of connectors have the same shape.

[0029] With this configuration, the connectors connected to the branch lines do not need to vary depending on the accessories, thus making it easy to increase the number of accessories or easily change the accessories.

[0030] Advantages and effects of the invention

[0031] It is possible to provide a vehicle electrical system in which the main wiring section has a simplified structure and new wires can be easily added.

[0032] As described above, the invention has been briefly described. The details of the invention will become clearer by reading the embodiments described below (hereinafter referred to as "Examples") for carrying out the invention with reference to the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0033] Figure 1This is an exploded perspective view showing the layout and connection state of the various parts of the vehicle electrical circuit system as it is laid out on the vehicle body according to the first embodiment of the present invention, as well as an outline of the various modules installed on the vehicle body.

[0034] Figure 2 It is shown in the figure. Figure 1 The diagram shows the various modules mounted on the vehicle body in a 3D view.

[0035] Figure 3 (a) is a diagram showing Figure 1 The diagram shows a perspective view of the supply-side control box, and Figure 3 (b) is along Figure 3 (a) is a cross-sectional view taken by line AA.

[0036] Figure 4 (a) to 4(c) are the diagrams shown Figure 3 A perspective view showing the assembly steps of the supply-side control box.

[0037] Figure 5 (a) and (b) are perspective views illustrating the circuit board according to this embodiment.

[0038] Figure 6 (a) is a diagram showing Figure 1 A 3D view of the branch control box shown; Figure 6 (b) is a diagram showing Figure 1 A perspective view of the control box shown; and Figure 6 (c) is a diagram showing Figure 1 A 3D view of the intermediate control box shown.

[0039] Figure 7 It is used for explanation Figure 2 An enlarged 3D view of the main parts of the dashboard module shown.

[0040] Figure 8 This is a schematic structural diagram illustrating the branch box according to this embodiment.

[0041] Figure 9 (a) to 9(c) are for illustration Figure 8 A three-dimensional view of the branch box structure shown.

[0042] Figure 10 This is an exploded perspective view showing a modified example of the material laid according to this embodiment.

[0043] Figure 11 This is a perspective view of the main parts of a modified example of a flat conductor according to this embodiment.

[0044] Figure 12 This is a perspective view illustrating a fuse installed in a flat conductor according to this embodiment.

[0045] Figure 13 (a) is a perspective view illustrating an example of a power line and a ground line formed by a flat conductor according to this embodiment being connected to a battery, and Figure 13 (b) is along Figure 13 (a) is a cross-sectional view taken by line BB.

[0046] Figure 14 This is a perspective view illustrating an example of a connection structure for a fabrication material formed from a flat conductor according to this embodiment.

[0047] Figure 15 (a) to 15(c) are perspective views illustrating the arrangement of the power lines according to this embodiment.

[0048] Figure 16 (a) to 16(d) are cross-sectional views illustrating the arrangement of the laying material according to this embodiment.

[0049] Figure 17 (a) to 17(e) are cross-sectional views illustrating the arrangement of the laying material according to this embodiment.

[0050] Figure 18 (a) and (b) are cross-sectional views illustrating the arrangement of the laying materials according to this embodiment.

[0051] Figure 19 (a) and 19(b) are cross-sectional views illustrating the plate connection structure of the round rod conductor according to this embodiment.

[0052] Figure 20 This is a perspective view illustrating the structure of a terminal formed by using stranded wires according to this embodiment.

[0053] Figure 21 (a) to 21(d) are enlarged views of the main parts used to illustrate an example of the terminal structure of the power cord according to this embodiment.

[0054] Figure 22 This is a perspective view illustrating an example of forming a round rod conductor according to this embodiment.

[0055] Figure 23 This is an explanatory diagram comparing the cross-sectional area of ​​the wire harness in the prior art with the cross-sectional area of ​​the fabrication material according to this embodiment.

[0056] Figure 24 (a) and (b) are perspective and cross-sectional views illustrating the main parts of the terminal connection structure of the round rod conductor according to this embodiment.

[0057] Figure 25(a) and (b) are perspective and cross-sectional views illustrating the main parts of the control box connection structure of the round rod conductor according to this embodiment.

[0058] Figure 26 (a) and (b) are perspective views illustrating the main parts of a modified example of a round rod conductor according to this embodiment.

[0059] Figure 27 This is a cross-sectional view used to illustrate a modified example of the material arrangement according to this embodiment.

[0060] Figure 28 This is a cross-sectional view used to illustrate a modified example of the material arrangement according to this embodiment.

[0061] Figure 29 (a) is a longitudinal cross-sectional view illustrating a variation example of the material arrangement according to this embodiment, and Figure 29 (b) is along Figure 29 (a) is a cross-sectional view taken by line CC.

[0062] Figure 30 (a) to 30(d) are cross-sectional views illustrating variations of the material laid according to this embodiment.

[0063] Figure 31 (a) is a longitudinal cross-sectional view illustrating a variation example of the material arrangement according to this embodiment, and Figure 31 (b) is along Figure 31 (a) is a cross-sectional view taken by line DD.

[0064] Figure 32 This is a plan view used to illustrate a modified example of the material arrangement according to this embodiment.

[0065] Figure 33 (a) to 33(c) are partial perspective views and cross-sectional views illustrating examples of the layout of the laying material according to this embodiment.

[0066] Figure 34 This is a partial cross-sectional perspective view used to illustrate a modified example of the vehicle circuitry according to this embodiment.

[0067] Figure 35 This is a perspective view illustrating the main part of an example of the joining form of the laid material according to this embodiment.

[0068] Figure 36 This is a perspective view illustrating the main part of an example of the joining form of the laid material according to this embodiment.

[0069] Figure 37 (a) and 37(b) are exploded perspective views illustrating the main parts of a modified example of the control box according to this embodiment.

[0070] Figure 38 (a) and (b) are partial cross-sectional perspective views illustrating a modified example of the material arrangement according to this embodiment.

[0071] Figure 39 (a) and 39(b) are perspective views illustrating examples of the layout of the laying material according to this embodiment.

[0072] Figure 40 This is a schematic plan view used to illustrate a modified example of the vehicle circuitry according to this embodiment.

[0073] Figure 41 (a) to 41(e) are schematic plan views illustrating modified examples of the vehicle circuitry according to this embodiment.

[0074] Figure 42 This is a schematic configuration diagram used to illustrate a modified example of the vehicle circuitry according to this embodiment.

[0075] Figure 43 This is a schematic configuration diagram used to illustrate a modified example of the vehicle circuitry according to this embodiment.

[0076] Figure 44 This is a schematic configuration diagram used to illustrate a modified example of the vehicle circuitry according to this embodiment.

[0077] Figure 45 This is a schematic perspective view showing the layout and connection state of the various parts of the vehicle circuitry in a modified example according to this embodiment, with the circuitry laid out on the vehicle body.

[0078] Figure 46 It is used for explanation Figure 45 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of the main part of the through-type structure of the front bulkhead of the trunk line.

[0079] Figure 47 This is a schematic plan view showing the layout and connection state of the various parts of the vehicle electrical circuit system as it is installed on the vehicle body according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0080] Figure 48 This is a perspective view illustrating an example configuration of the main components of an on-board device including the vehicle circuitry of the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0081] Figure 49 This is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of an in-vehicle system.

[0082] Figure 50 (a) and (b) are circuit diagrams illustrating configuration examples of backbone trunk lines.

[0083] Figure 51 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the circuitry configuration within the control box.

[0084] Figure 52 This is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of the control box's functions.

[0085] Figure 53 This is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a communication system in an in-vehicle system.

[0086] Figure 54 This is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a communication system in an in-vehicle system, including a gateway.

[0087] Figure 55 (a), 55(b) and 55(c) are perspective views illustrating examples of configurations of unused connectors in the connection section for physically protecting the control box.

[0088] Figure 56 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process that controls the protection of unused connectors.

[0089] Figure 57 This is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of the communication system within the control box.

[0090] Figure 58 This is a circuit diagram illustrating an example of a circuit configuration used to supply power to the various communication systems within the control box.

[0091] Figure 59 This is an exploded view illustrating an example of a wiring harness configuration obtained by combining a printed circuit board with wires.

[0092] Figure 60 This is a perspective view showing an example of the exterior of a control box with a USB port.

[0093] Figure 61 (a), 61(b) and 61(c) are plan views illustrating three configuration examples of circuit boards built into control boxes, etc.

[0094] Figure 62 This is a perspective view illustrating an example of the configuration of the connection points of the layout components that form the trunk line.

[0095] Figure 63 This is a plan view illustrating an example of the connection between the control box and the branch sub-harness on the main line.

[0096] Figure 64 This is a plan view illustrating an example of the connection between the control box and the branch sub-harness on the main line.

[0097] Figure 65(a) and 65(b) are plan views illustrating examples of connections between trunk lines and branch sub-harnesses.

[0098] Figure 66 This is a perspective view illustrating an example of the connection between the control box and the branch sub-harness on the main line.

[0099] Figure 67 It is a perspective view showing an example of the arrangement of main lines and multiple branch sub-wiring harnesses laid on the vehicle body.

[0100] Figure 68 (a) and 68(b) are block diagrams illustrating multiple control boxes and the communication trunk lines that connect the control boxes to each other.

[0101] Figure 69 This is a circuit diagram illustrating a configuration example of a control box with a recovery function.

[0102] Figure 70 (a) and (b) are block diagrams illustrating examples of connections between a harness and a load.

[0103] Figure 71 It is a perspective view showing a specific example of the arrangement and connection of various components on the vehicle body.

[0104] Figure 72 (a), 72(b) and 72(c) are block diagrams illustrating specific examples of the connection states of trunk lines, control boxes, batteries, etc.

[0105] Figure 73 (a), 73(b), 73(c), 73(d) and 73(e) are block diagrams illustrating specific examples of the connection states of the trunk line with more than one battery.

[0106] Figure 74 It is a block diagram illustrating a specific example of the connection status of the trunk line and multiple batteries.

[0107] Figure 75 This is a circuit diagram illustrating an example configuration of the power system in an onboard system.

[0108] Figure 76 (a) is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of an in-vehicle system, and Figure 76 (b) is a perspective view illustrating an example of the appearance of the vehicle system.

[0109] Figure 77 (a) and 77(b) are longitudinal cross-sectional views illustrating different configuration examples of backbone trunk lines.

[0110] Figure 78This is a timing diagram illustrating an example of the relationship between power supply current and power supply voltage under specific power supply control conditions.

[0111] Figure 79 (a), 79(b) and 79(c) are longitudinal cross-sectional views illustrating different configuration examples of backbone trunk lines.

[0112] Figure 80 This is a circuit diagram illustrating an example configuration of the power system in an onboard system.

[0113] Figure 81 This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view illustrating an example of a communication cable configuration.

[0114] Figure 82 This is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a communication system in an in-vehicle system.

[0115] Figure 83 This is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a communication system in an in-vehicle system where the communication system is connected in a ring.

[0116] Figure 84 This is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a communication system in a vehicle-mounted system where the communication system is connected in a star topology.

[0117] Figure 85 Figures (a), (b), and (c) illustrate the communication connection status between devices under different conditions, where... Figure 85 (a) is a 3D diagram, and Figure 85 (b) and 85(c) are block diagrams.

[0118] Figure 86 This is a circuit diagram illustrating an example configuration of the power system in an onboard system.

[0119] Figure 87 This is a circuit diagram illustrating an example configuration of the power system in an onboard system.

[0120] Figure 88 This is a circuit diagram illustrating an example configuration of a backup power supply circuit.

[0121] Figure 89 This is a circuit diagram illustrating an example configuration of a power supply circuit for an electrical load.

[0122] Figure 90 This is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of an in-vehicle system.

[0123] Figure 91 This is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a control box capable of switching between multiple communication protocols.

[0124] Figure 92This is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of the control box.

[0125] Figure 93 (a) and 93(b) are block diagrams illustrating configuration examples of in-vehicle systems.

[0126] Figure 94 This is a block diagram illustrating an example configuration of a circuit module installed in the driver's side door panel.

[0127] Figure 95 This is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a circuit module installed in the passenger-side door panel.

[0128] Figure 96 This is a block diagram illustrating an example configuration of the circuit modules installed in the rear seat door panel.

[0129] Figure 97 This is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a circuit module installed in the roof of a vehicle.

[0130] Figure 98 This is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a smart connector.

[0131] Figure 99 (a) and (b) are block diagrams illustrating configuration examples of communication systems in different in-vehicle systems.

[0132] Figure 100 This is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a communication system in an in-vehicle system.

[0133] Figure 101 This is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a communication system in an in-vehicle system.

[0134] Figure 102 This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view showing a configuration example of the communication trunk BB_LC.

[0135] Figure 103 This is a timing diagram illustrating an example of configuring optical signals for wavelength division multiplexing and time division multiplexing.

[0136] Figure 104 This is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a communication system in a vehicle-mounted system that performs optical multiplexing communication.

[0137] Figure 105 This is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example within the control box.

[0138] Figure 106 This is a front view illustrating a specific example of a screen displayed during a power outage.

[0139] Figure 107This is a flowchart illustrating an example of a user's process for selecting which device to use during a power outage.

[0140] Figure 108 (a), 108(b) and 108(c) are block diagrams illustrating the configuration of the three backbone lines corresponding to different levels.

[0141] Figure 109 (a) and 109(b) are block diagrams illustrating different configuration examples of in-vehicle systems.

[0142] Figure 110 This is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of an in-vehicle system.

[0143] Figure 111 It is a block diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of power lines included in the backbone and the connection status of various devices.

[0144] Figure 112 This is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of an in-vehicle system.

[0145] Figure 113 This is a schematic plan view illustrating the layout of the backbone wiring of a vehicle circuit according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0146] Figure 114 (a) is a diagram showing Figure 113 The diagram shows a perspective view of the main components of the dashboard backbone section, and... Figure 114 (b) is a diagram showing Figure 113 A perspective view of the main parts of the floor skeletal trunk section shown.

[0147] Figure 115 (a) to 115(c) are respectively shown in the figure Figure 114 (a) shows the front view, bottom view, and left side view of the supply-side control box.

[0148] Figure 116 (a) to 116 (b) are shown in the diagram Figure 114 (a) shows a perspective view and a bottom view of the branch control box.

[0149] Figure 117 It is used for explanation Figure 116 An exploded perspective view of the main part of an example of the connection structure between the dashboard backbone and the floor backbone in the branch control box shown.

[0150] Figure 118 (a) is along Figure 117 The cross-sectional view taken from line FF in the image, and Figure 118 (b) is along Figure 117The cross-sectional view of line GG.

[0151] Figure 119 (a) and 119(b) are Figure 114 (a) shows a perspective view and front view of the multi-connector.

[0152] Figure 120 (a) is along Figure 116 The cross-sectional view of line EE in the diagram, and Figure 120 (b) is along Figure 120 (a) is a cross-sectional view taken by line HH.

[0153] Figure 121 The diagram illustrates multiple connectors connected to... Figure 120 (a) is a cross-sectional view of the state of the branch control box.

[0154] Figure 122 (a) and 122(b) are Figure 114 (a) shows a perspective view and a bottom view of the control box.

[0155] Figure 123 It is shown in the figure. Figure 114 (b) is a perspective view of the upper shell of the intermediate control box in the open state.

[0156] Figure 124 It is used for explanation Figure 123 An exploded perspective view of the main part of an example of the connection structure between the circuit board in the intermediate control box and the floor backbone.

[0157] Figure 125 It is along Figure 124 The cross-sectional view taken from line JJ in the diagram.

[0158] Figure 126 (a) and 126(b) are along Figure 123 The cross-sectional view taken from line II in the figure shows the circuit board in both its separated and assembled states.

[0159] Figure 127 This is a plan view illustrating another embodiment of the backbone control box and its adjacent objects.

[0160] Figure 128 This is a plan view illustrating a configuration example of the main components of an onboard device, including the vehicle's electrical circuitry.

[0161] Reference tag list

[0162] 10 Vehicle electrical circuits

[0163] 15. Backbone and Main Lines (Main Lines)

[0164] 21 power cord

[0165] 21a, 21b, 21c and 21d thin plate-shaped fabric

[0166] 27 Ground wire

[0167] 29 Communication lines

[0168] 31 Instrument panel branch wiring harness (branch line)

[0169] 51 Supply-side control box

[0170] 53 Branch Control Box

[0171] 57. Intermediate Control Box

[0172] 55 Control Box

[0173] 59 Control Box

[0174] 63 Front door branch wiring harness (branch line)

[0175] 65 Rear Door Branch Cable Harness (Branch Cable)

[0176] 66. Center console branch wiring harness (branch cable)

[0177] 67 Front seat branch cable sub-harness (branch cable)

[0178] 68 rear seat branch cable harness (branch cable)

[0179] 69. Luggage compartment branch line harness (branch line)

[0180] 100 flat conductor

[0181] 2021, 2022 and 2023 backbone trunk lines

[0182] 2031, 2032 and 2033 backbone control boxes

[0183] 2101 Power Control Unit

[0184] 2102 Communication Control Unit

[0185] 2111 Gateway Control Circuit

[0186] 2112 Power supply circuit

[0187] 2113 Voltage monitoring circuit

[0188] 2114 Battery reverse connection protection circuit

[0189] 2115 Control Circuit Monitor

[0190] 2116 Power Output Circuit Section

[0191] 2200 display screen

[0192] 2201 Target Device List Display Unit

[0193] 2202 Cursor Display Section

[0194] 2203 Operation Limitation Display Unit

[0195] 2204 Operation Guidance Display Unit

[0196] 2205 Remaining Battery Capacity Display

[0197] 2211 Power Abnormality Detection Unit

[0198] 2212 Control Signal

[0199] 2213 Main Power Supply Section

[0200] 2214 Normal Load

[0201] 2215 Standby Load

[0202] Communication terminals 2221 to 2226

[0203] Communication terminals 2231 to 2233 with relay function

[0204] 2241 Luggage

[0205] AE accessories

[0206] ALT alternator

[0207] MB Main Battery

[0208] BB_LM backbone

[0209] CB control box

[0210] LS branch sub-harness

[0211] Cnx connector

[0212] L1, L2 and L2B power lines

[0213] L3 ground wire

[0214] L4, L5 and Lx communication lines

[0215] DT diagnostic tools

[0216] CBa Microcomputer

[0217] CBb switching circuit

[0218] CBc bridge circuit

[0219] BB_LC communication trunk

[0220] AR1, AR2 and AR3 areas

[0221] CBd circuit board

[0222] Locked covers for Kc1 and Kc2

[0223] Kk Unlock Key

[0224] Ks sealing elements

[0225] GW gateway

[0226] CB01 power supply circuit

[0227] CB02 Gateway Control Circuit

[0228] CB03, CB04, CB05, and CB06 PHY circuits; CB07 and CB08 network switches

[0229] CB09 and CB10 transceivers

[0230] CB11 switching circuit

[0231] CP11 and CP12 power connectors

[0232] CP13 to CP20 communication port connectors; CP1 to CP8 communication port connectors

[0233] LPP1 and LPP2 communication lines

[0234] FBC1 and FBC2 fiber optic cables

[0235] FB11 and FB12 fiber optic cables Detailed Implementation

[0236] Specific embodiments of the invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0237] <Disclosure of the Invention and Potential Claims>

[0238] [Form-1]

[0239] (1) A vehicle electrical circuit, comprising:

[0240] The trunk line includes a power line with a predetermined current capacity and a communication line with a predetermined communication capacity, and the trunk line is installed in the vehicle body.

[0241] Branch line, which is directly or indirectly connected to the fitting; and

[0242] Multiple control boxes are arranged in a distributed manner along the trunk line, and each control box includes a control unit that distributes at least one of the power supplied to the trunk line from the power supply line and the signal from the communication line to the branch lines connected to the trunk line.

[0243] The trunk line is formed of a laying material, which has at least one type of conductor among flat conductors, round rod conductors, and stranded wires.

[0244] According to the vehicle circuit having the above (1) configuration, the vehicle circuit can be provided in a simple structure by using the following components: a main line having a predetermined current capacity and a predetermined communication capacity and being laid in the vehicle body; and a branch line connecting accessories to the main line via a plurality of control boxes arranged in a distributed manner along the main line.

[0245] The vehicle electrical system is formed by separate trunk lines and branch lines. The trunk lines are applicable to multiple vehicle models, grades, or options, while the branch lines vary depending on the vehicle model, grade, or option. Therefore, even if the number of vehicle models, grades, or options increases, only branch lines with different wiring need to be prepared for each vehicle model, grade, or option, which facilitates the manufacturing of the vehicle electrical system and helps reduce costs.

[0246] The power lines of the trunk line require a large cross-sectional area to ensure the predetermined current capacity. Therefore, when the power lines are formed from a laying material with a flat conductor having a flat, strip-like cross-sectional shape, bending in the thickness direction is facilitated, thus aiding in the laying operation of the power lines along a predetermined laying path. When the power lines are formed from a laying material with highly versatile round rod conductors or stranded wires, the power lines can be easily manufactured and freely bent in all directions. This improves laying performance.

[0247] (2) In the vehicle circuit according to (1) above, the laying material is formed of a variety of conductors combined with each other.

[0248] According to the vehicle circuit body with the above-described (2) configuration, the laying material is formed by a suitable combination of flat conductors, round rod conductors and stranded wires, thereby enabling the provision of a trunk line that has good laying performance along the laying path of the vehicle and is easy to manufacture.

[0249] (3) In the vehicle circuit according to (1) or (2) above, the trunk line between the plurality of control boxes is formed of a laying material with different types of conductors.

[0250] Based on the vehicle circuit body with the above (3) configuration, for each main line between multiple control boxes, it is possible to use a wiring material with a conductor having a wiring path suitable for the vehicle.

[0251] (4) In the vehicle circuitry according to any one of (1) to (3) above, the trunk line includes a branch that branches at least one of the power line and the communication line into separate lines.

[0252] According to the vehicle circuit system with the above configuration (4), since the main line branches into multiple main lines in the branch section, the control box, which is distributed in each main line, can be installed in various parts of the vehicle. Therefore, power can be easily supplied to the accessories installed in various parts of the vehicle via the branch line connected to the control box, or communication data (signals) can be easily sent to the accessories and received from the accessories.

[0253] (5) In the vehicle circuit body according to any one of (1) to (4) above, the trunk line is connected to an auxiliary power source different from the main power source of the power supply line.

[0254] According to the vehicle circuit system with the above configuration (5), the main power supply and the auxiliary power supply are arranged in a manner distributed in the power lines of the main line. Therefore, voltage fluctuations can be reduced when the power required in each component is high by supplying current from each power supply. In the event that the power supply from one power supply is interrupted due to a vehicle collision, power can be supplied from another power supply, and thus an uninterrupted power line can be configured.

[0255] Since the main power supply and auxiliary power supply are distributed throughout the vehicle and interconnected via trunk power lines, renewable energy can be easily recovered in electric vehicles or hybrid vehicles, thus improving the energy recovery rate.

[0256] Because multiple power supplies are provided, power backup can be implemented, thus reducing the impact of power failures.

[0257] (6) In the vehicle circuit according to any one of (1) to (5) above, the main line further includes a ground wire having a predetermined current capacity.

[0258] According to the vehicle circuit body with the above (6) configuration, the ground wire in the trunk extends parallel to the power line, and thus can prevent power noise from creeping into the communication line.

[0259] Power and ground lines, formed of a fabric material with flat conductors, are stacked to increase the surface area of ​​their facing surfaces and reduce the gap between them, thereby further improving noise immunity.

[0260] [Power Supply - 1]

[0261] In vehicles, for example, autonomous driving technologies require improved reliability of the wiring harness power system. For instance, even during a vehicle collision due to a traffic accident, it is preferable to maintain power supply to critical onboard equipment and to be able to resolve the issue solely through the vehicle itself. In vehicle electrical systems such as wiring harnesses, there is a need to reduce component or manufacturing costs through simplified configuration, or to reduce the number of components by using components common to various vehicle types.

[0262] Therefore, the vehicle circuit is configured as described in (1) to (7) below.

[0263] (1) A vehicle electrical circuit installed in a vehicle, comprising:

[0264] A trunk line that extends at least in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle; and

[0265] Multiple control boxes are installed in the main line.

[0266] The trunk line includes communication lines and power lines for both systems.

[0267] With this configuration, since the power lines for the two systems are formed between the control box, and one power line is used as a backup, the possibility of power supply interruption is reduced, or power can be supplied stably by increasing the voltage of one system as needed.

[0268] (2) In the vehicle circuit according to (1) above, the power lines of the two systems transmit power at the same voltage.

[0269] With this configuration, depending on the situation, it is possible to use the power cords of both systems together, or to use one power cord as a backup.

[0270] (3) In the vehicle circuit according to (1) above, the power lines of the two systems transmit power at different voltages.

[0271] With this configuration, when connecting loads with high power consumption, a large power supply current flows, thus increasing the voltage drop in the supply line. Therefore, it is possible to prevent increased power loss by selecting a higher power supply voltage.

[0272] (4) According to the vehicle circuitry of (1) to (3) above, the plurality of control boxes include a first control box and a second control box, the second control box being located downstream of the power source than the first control box, and wherein the first control box transmits power to the second control box by using only one of the power lines of the two systems.

[0273] With this configuration, one of the power lines of the two systems is ensured to be the backup power system, and in the event of an anomaly in the power line in use, a switchover to the backup power system can be performed.

[0274] (5) In any of the above (1) to (4), the vehicle circuit further includes a branch line connected to an accessory provided in the vehicle.

[0275] This configuration allows power to be supplied from a central power source to the main line, and power from the main line to various components to be distributed.

[0276] (6) In the vehicle circuit according to (5) above, one end of the branch line is connected to the control box.

[0277] This configuration allows for the distribution of power from the control box to the accessories.

[0278] (7) In the vehicle circuit body according to (1) to (6) above, the power lines of the two systems are arranged to extend in parallel.

[0279] Using this configuration, the power lines of the two systems can be set together by connecting the control boxes to each other via a single trunk line.

[0280] [Power Supply - 2]

[0281] In vehicles, due to differences in vehicle type, class, destination, and optional equipment, different numbers or types of electrical components (accessories) are connected for each vehicle. If the number or type of electrical components changes, the wiring harness configuration can be altered. New types of electrical components not anticipated during the vehicle's design may be added to the vehicle in the future. In this case, preferably, the added electrical components can be used simply by connecting to existing wiring harnesses already installed in the vehicle. Preferably, the connection locations of the individual electrical components can be varied as needed. Preferably, even if the type of vehicle, the number or type of electrical components to be connected changes, the wiring harnesses can be configured using universal components.

[0282] Therefore, the vehicle circuit is configured as described in (1) to (2) below.

[0283] (1) A vehicle electrical circuit installed in a vehicle, comprising:

[0284] The trunk line extends at least in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle;

[0285] Multiple control boxes are disposed in the main line; and

[0286] A branch line connects the control box to the accessory.

[0287] Both the trunk line and the branch line include power lines and communication lines.

[0288] Each of the plurality of control boxes includes: a branch line connector connected to the branch line; and a branch line control unit that controls the branch line connector according to a control program to distribute power from the trunk line to the branch line.

[0289] The control program can be changed externally depending on the accessories connected to the branch line.

[0290] This configuration allows for the supply of appropriate power from the main line to the accessories via branch lines by changing the control program, regardless of the type of accessory connected to the branch line.

[0291] (2) In the vehicle circuit body according to (1) above, the branch line connection includes a plurality of connectors connected to the end of the branch line, the plurality of connectors having the same shape.

[0292] With this configuration, the connectors connected to the branch lines do not need to vary depending on the accessories, thus making it easy to increase the number of accessories or easily change the accessories.

[0293] [Communication-1]

[0294] In vehicles, for example, autonomous driving technologies require improved reliability of communication systems, such as wiring harnesses. Ideally, even during a vehicle collision due to a traffic accident, the communication systems used to control critical onboard equipment should remain communicable and function normally under vehicle control. In vehicle electrical systems such as wiring harnesses that serve as communication paths, there is a need to reduce component or manufacturing costs through simplified configuration, and a need to reduce the number of components by using components common to various vehicle types.

[0295] Therefore, the vehicle circuit is configured as described in (1).

[0296] (1) A vehicle electrical circuit installed in a vehicle, comprising:

[0297] A trunk line that extends at least in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle; and

[0298] Multiple control boxes are located in the main line.

[0299] The trunk line includes power lines and communication lines.

[0300] The communication lines are arranged such that the plurality of control boxes are connected in a ring shape.

[0301] This configuration allows communication to continue even if a fault occurs in any communication line connecting multiple control boxes, using a path in the opposite direction to the location of the fault. Therefore, the reliability of communication on the vehicle's electrical mains can be improved.

[0302] [Communication-2]

[0303] Various electrical components can be connected to the vehicle's wiring harness. It is preferable to use universal components, or connectors and the like that allow for flexible changes in their connection positions. Thus, it is desirable to employ universal communication standards, or to fabricate multiple connectors with conventional shapes on the vehicle's wiring harness. However, for example, from a safety perspective, there are situations where some connectors must not be freely used by the vehicle's users or third parties unless specifically permitted. However, when using standards-based communication methods or standards-based connectors, users can freely use connectors in an unused state, thus causing problems such as safety issues.

[0304] Therefore, the vehicle circuit is configured as described in (1) to (5) below.

[0305] (1) A vehicle electrical circuit installed in a vehicle, comprising:

[0306] Multiple control boxes;

[0307] A trunk line, which interconnects the plurality of control boxes; and

[0308] Branch line, which connects the control box directly or indirectly to the accessory.

[0309] Both the trunk line and the branch line include power lines and communication lines.

[0310] Each of the control boxes includes multiple branch connection points, the communication lines of which can be attached to and detached from the branch connection points.

[0311] The plurality of branch connection parts are provided with a locking function part, which physically or electrically enters a locked state when the branch is not connected to the branch connection part.

[0312] Using this configuration, even if a larger number of branch connection sections than currently connected are located in the control box, allowing for future additional branch connections, it prevents unauthorized branch lines from being connected to branch connection sections not currently connected to any branch lines. Therefore, for example, it can prevent a program rewriting device from being connected to a branch connection section not currently connected to any branch lines, thus preventing malicious rewriting of the control unit's program.

[0313] (2) In the vehicle circuit according to (1), each of the plurality of branch connection portions includes a connector, the end of the communication line being able to be attached to and detached from the connector, and wherein the locking function includes: a cover member that collectively covers the openings of the plurality of connectors; and a locking portion that prevents the cover member from detaching from the connector in a locked state.

[0314] With this configuration, when branch lines are not required to connect to any branch line connectors, all connectors at the branch line connectors are covered by the cover component, and the cover component cannot be detached due to the locking mechanism. This prevents branch lines from being incorrectly or maliciously connected to the connectors.

[0315] (3) In the vehicle circuitry according to (1) above, each of the plurality of branch connection portions includes a connector, the end of a communication line being able to be attached to and detached from the connector. The locking function includes: a cover member that covers at least a portion of the opening of any one of the connectors; and a locking portion that prevents the cover member from detaching from the connector in the locked state.

[0316] With this configuration, the cover component can be attached to only the necessary connectors among multiple connectors without detaching. Therefore, even if a branch line is not connected to some of the multiple connectors, the cover component is attached to the connector, thus preventing the branch line from being mistakenly or maliciously connected to the connector.

[0317] (4) In the vehicle circuit according to (1) above, each of the plurality of branch connection portions includes a connector to which the end of a communication line can be attached and detached, and wherein the locking function portion is a sealing member that covers the opening of at least one connector, and the sealing member includes an unsealed display device for identifying unsealed parts.

[0318] This configuration prevents malicious connection of branch lines to the connector because the sealing component has an unsealed indicator. In the event of an unauthorized connection, it is easy for distributors or similar entities to detect the situation.

[0319] (5) In the vehicle circuit according to (1) above, each of the plurality of branch connection parts sends a signal to the connected target object, and determines whether to allow sending a signal to the target object or receiving a signal from the target object based on the response to the signal from the target object.

[0320] With this configuration, even if a branch line that should not be connected to the branch line connector is connected to the branch line connector, it cannot communicate with the target object connected to the branch line. Therefore, it is possible to prevent unauthorized communication from adversely affecting the function of the control box or accessories connected to the branch line.

[0321] [Communication-3]

[0322] Regarding vehicle communication, interfaces based on multiple standards such as CAN, CXPI, and Ethernet (registered trademark) can be used. Connected electrical components can employ different communication standards for each type of vehicle, each class of vehicle, or even each area of ​​the vehicle body. Because wiring harness configuration can be complex and connection operations can be cumbersome, as separate devices such as special communication cables, connectors, or communication interfaces are prepared to interconnect communication devices based on different standards.

[0323] Therefore, the vehicle circuit is configured as described in (1) to (2) below.

[0324] (1) A vehicle electrical circuit installed in a vehicle, comprising:

[0325] The trunk line extends at least in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle;

[0326] Multiple control boxes are disposed in the main line; and

[0327] A branch line connects the control box directly or indirectly to the accessory.

[0328] Both the trunk line and the branch line include power lines and communication lines.

[0329] The vehicles are divided into multiple areas.

[0330] At least two of the control boxes are located in different areas from each other, and each control box includes a gateway that converts the communication methods used for the communication lines of the branch line and the communication lines of the trunk line.

[0331] Multiple gateways can communicate with each other via the communication lines of the trunk.

[0332] With this configuration, since gateways that convert the communication methods of the communication lines used for the main line and the branch line are set in each area of ​​the vehicle, accessories located in one area are connected to the control box located in that area via branch lines, thus enabling signal transmission and reception between the accessories and the main line.

[0333] (2) In the vehicle circuit according to (1) above, the gateway changes the communication method to correspond to the communication method used in the accessory connected to the gateway via the branch line.

[0334] Using this configuration, various types of accessories can be connected to a control box located in the same area as the area where the accessory is located, regardless of the communication method.

[0335] [Communication-4]

[0336] In vehicles, for example, it is desirable to interconnect multiple devices that transmit large amounts of data, such as video signals captured by various cameras. In such environments, optical communication can be used, enabling high-speed, high-capacity communication. However, if the entire vehicle system is connected using an optical communication network, the system will inevitably be very expensive.

[0337] Therefore, the vehicle circuit is configured as described in (1) to (2) below.

[0338] (1) A vehicle electrical circuit installed in a vehicle, comprising:

[0339] The trunk line extends at least in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle;

[0340] Multiple control boxes are disposed in the main line; and

[0341] A branch line connects the control box directly or indirectly to the accessory.

[0342] The trunk line includes power lines and communication lines.

[0343] The branch line includes at least one of a power line and a communication line.

[0344] The trunk communication line has a transmission path for optical signals, and the branch communication line has a transmission path for electrical signals.

[0345] This configuration increases the transmission capacity between control boxes because the trunk connecting them has a path for optical signal transmission. Furthermore, the use of optical signals makes them less susceptible to electromagnetic noise generated in the trunk's power lines or external devices, thus enhancing communication reliability.

[0346] (2) In the vehicle circuit according to (1) above, at least one communication line of the trunk line directly connects two of the plurality of control boxes to each other.

[0347] With this configuration, the two control boxes are directly connected to each other via a transmission path for optical signals, thus enabling high-speed signal transmission and reception.

[0348] <Description of the Implementation>

[0349] Specific embodiments of the vehicle circuitry of the present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0350] <First Embodiment>

[0351] (Vehicle electrical system)

[0352] First, the basic configuration of the vehicle's electrical system will be described.

[0353] Figure 1 The figure illustrates the layout and connection state of the various parts of the vehicle circuit 10 as it is laid out on the vehicle body according to the first embodiment of the present invention, as well as an outline of the various modules installed on the vehicle body.

[0354] The vehicle circuitry of this invention is used to supply power from a main power source, such as a vehicle battery, to accessories (electrical components) located in various parts of the vehicle body, or to serve as a transmission path required for sending and receiving signals between electrical components (see reference). Figure 1 In other words, the vehicle circuit of the first embodiment functions the same as a conventional wiring harness installed in a vehicle; however, the shape or structure of the vehicle circuit is significantly different from that of a conventional wiring harness.

[0355] Specifically, to simplify the structure, the trunk line is formed of a laying material 20 with a simple shape, such as a backbone, and includes a power line with a predetermined current capacity, a communication line with a predetermined communication capacity, and a ground wire. The "predetermined current capacity" is, for example, sufficient current capacity required when all electrical components that can be installed on the target vehicle are installed and used, and the "predetermined communication capacity" is, for example, sufficient communication capacity required when all electrical components that can be installed on the target vehicle are installed and used. Various accessories (electrical components) can be connected via branch lines to multiple control boxes arranged in a distributed manner along the trunk line.

[0356] Figure 1 and 2The vehicle circuit 10 according to the first embodiment shown includes, as basic components: a trunk line (backbone trunk line 15) which is laid in the vehicle body 1 and has a power line 21 and a communication line 29; branch lines (instrument panel branch line sub-harness 31, front door branch line sub-harness 63, rear door branch line sub-harness 65, center console branch line sub-harness 66, front seat branch line sub-harness 67, rear seat branch line sub-harness 68 and luggage compartment branch line sub-harness 69) which are connected to electrical components at various parts of the vehicle body; and a plurality of control boxes (supply-side control box 51, branch control box 53, intermediate control box 57 and control boxes 55 and 59) which are arranged in a manner distributed along the trunk line and have control units that distribute the power supplied to the trunk line from the power line 21 and the signals from the communication line 29 to the branch lines connected to the trunk line.

[0357] According to the first embodiment, the backbone wiring section 15 of the vehicle circuit 10 is generally divided into the dashboard backbone wiring section 11 and the floor backbone wiring section 13.

[0358] The instrument panel backbone section 11 is arranged linearly in the left-right direction along the surface of the front bulkhead 50, and is substantially parallel to the reinforcement (not shown) at a position above the reinforcement. The instrument panel backbone section 11 can be fixed to the reinforcement.

[0359] The floor backbone section 13 is configured to extend along the interior floor of the vehicle body 1 in the longitudinal direction at approximately the center in the left-right direction, and extends linearly in the vertical direction along the surface of the front bulkhead 50, such that the tip of the floor backbone section 13 connects to the middle of the instrument panel backbone section 11. The connection between the instrument panel backbone section 11 and the floor backbone section 13 is such that they can be electrically connected to each other via a branch of the branch control box 53, which will be described later. In other words, the backbone section 15 is constructed in a T-shaped configuration by the instrument panel backbone section 11 and the floor backbone section 13.

[0360] The instrument panel backbone wiring harness 11 is connected to the engine compartment sub-wiring harness 61 via a supply-side control box 51, which is located on the left side of the vehicle body 1, upstream of the backbone wiring harness 15. The engine compartment sub-wiring harness 61 has a main power cable 81, which electrically connects the main battery 5, which serves as the main power source in the engine compartment 41, to the alternator 3.

[0361] Here, the front bulkhead 50 is positioned at the boundary between the engine compartment 41 and the vehicle interior 43, and it is required to properly seal the portion through which electrical connection components pass. In other words, the front bulkhead 50 is required to isolate vibrations from the engine compartment 41, reduce vibrations or noise from the suspension, and block heat, noise, and odors to maintain the comfort of the vehicle interior 43. Furthermore, the penetration points of electrical connection components must be adequately considered to prevent impairment of these functions.

[0362] As described above, the main components of the vehicle electrical system 10 according to the first embodiment, namely the instrument panel backbone wiring section 11, the floor backbone wiring section 13, the supply-side control box 51, the branch control box 53, the intermediate control box 57, and the control boxes 55 and 59, are all disposed in the space on the vehicle interior 43 side. The main power cable 81, which is connected to the supply-side control box 51 located at the left end of the instrument panel backbone wiring section 11, is routed by passing through a loop 85 fitted into a through hole in the front bulkhead 50, thereby connecting to the engine compartment wiring harness 61 in the engine compartment 41. Therefore, power from the main power supply can be supplied to the supply-side control box 51. Since a flexible material can be used for the main power cable 81, the cross-sectional shape of the main power cable 81 can be circular, or its cross-sectional area can be smaller than that of the instrument panel backbone wiring section 11, which helps to seal the cable using the loop 85, thereby preventing a decrease in operability during the installation operation.

[0363] When various electrical components in the engine compartment 41 need to be connected to the dashboard backbone wiring section 11 in the vehicle interior 43, for example, the sub-harness 71 connected to the supply-side control box 51 is configured to pass through the front bulkhead 50, or the sub-harness 73 connected to the control box 55 is configured to pass through the front bulkhead 50, thereby enabling the desired electrical connection path. In this case, since the sub-harnesses 71 and 73 have small cross-sectional areas and are easy to bend, the portions where the sub-harnesses pass through the front bulkhead 50 can be easily sealed.

[0364] The instrument panel backbone wiring section 11 is connected to the instrument panel branch wiring harness (branch line) 31 and the front door branch wiring harness (branch line) 63 via the supply side control box 51 and control box 55.

[0365] Each instrument panel branch sub-harness 31 is electrically connected via module connector C to module driver 30b of instrument panel harness 30a, which is electrically connected to control unit of electrical component such as instrument panel or air conditioner installed on instrument panel module 30.

[0366] Each front door branch sub-harness 63 is preferably connected to the module driver 33b of the front door harness 33a, which is electrically connected to the control unit of an electrical component such as a door lock or power window mounted on the front door 33, enabling contactless power supply and near-field wireless communication.

[0367] The floor trunk line 13 is connected via the central control box 57 to the rear door branch line sub-harness 65, the center console branch line sub-harness 66, the front seat branch line sub-harness 67, the rear seat branch line sub-harness 68, and the auxiliary battery 7.

[0368] Each rear door branch sub-harness 65 is preferably connected to the module driver 35b of the rear door sub-harness 35a, which is electrically connected to the control unit of an electrical component such as a door lock or power window mounted on the rear door 35, enabling contactless power supply and near-field wireless communication.

[0369] The center console branch sub-wiring harness 66 is electrically connected via module connector C to the module driver 39b of the center console wiring harness 39a, which is electrically connected to the control unit of an electrical component such as an air conditioning or audio control panel mounted on the center console 39.

[0370] Each front seat branch sub-harness 67 is electrically connected via module connector C to the module driver 37b of the front seat harness 37a, which is electrically connected to the control unit of an electrical component such as an electric tilt adjuster or a seat heater installed in the front seat 37.

[0371] Each rear seat branch sub-harness 68 is electrically connected via a module connector C to a module driver 38b of the rear seat harness 38a, which is electrically connected to a control unit of an electrical component such as an electric tilt adjuster or a seat heater installed in the rear seat 38.

[0372] The floor backbone trunk line 13 is connected to the luggage compartment branch line sub-harness (branch line) 69 via a control box 59, which is located on the rear side of the vehicle body 1, which is the downstream side of the trunk line.

[0373] The luggage compartment branch sub-harness 69 is electrically connected via module connector C to the module driver (not shown) of the luggage compartment harness, which is electrically connected to the control unit of various electrical components in the luggage compartment.

[0374] The module connector C enables the power and ground to be connected to the control box, thereby efficiently transmitting power and signals to the backbone section 15 and various accessories.

[0375] (Materials to be laid out)

[0376] According to the first embodiment, the backbone section 15 of the vehicle circuit 10 has a power line 21, a communication line 29 and a ground line 27, all of which are formed of a laying material 20 including a flat conductor 100.

[0377] exist Figure 1 In the configuration shown, it is assumed that there is a secondary battery (secondary power supply) 7, so the backbone section 15 of the vehicle circuit 10 includes a main power system (power line) 23 and a secondary power system (power line) 25 as power lines 21.

[0378] For the power lines 21, ground lines 27, and communication lines 29 of the backbone trunk section 15, the laying material 20 according to the first embodiment is a flat conductor 100 made of a metal material (e.g., copper alloy or aluminum) with a flat strip cross-sectional shape, and is formed by stacking the flat conductor 100, the outer periphery of which is covered by an insulating coating 110, in the thickness direction (see...). Figure 1 In other words, the main power system 23 is stacked on the auxiliary power system 25 that forms the power line 21, and for example, a pair of flat conductors of communication line 29 arranged side by side are stacked on the ground line 27 stacked on the main power system 23.

[0379] Therefore, the fabrication material 20 allows for the passage of large currents and is more conducive to bending processes in the thickness direction. The fabrication material 20 can be arranged such that the power line 21 and the ground line 27 extend parallel to each other, and since the ground line 27 is stacked between the communication line 29 and the power line 21, it can prevent the creeping of power supply noise.

[0380] The power line 21 of the backbone section 15 requires a large cross-sectional area to ensure the predetermined current capacity. In this embodiment, the power line 21 is formed of a laying material 20 having a flat conductor 100 with a flat strip cross-sectional shape, which facilitates bending in the thickness direction and thus facilitates the operation of laying the power line 21 along a predetermined laying path.

[0381] (Control box)

[0382] According to the first embodiment, the vehicle circuit 10 is provided with five control boxes: a supply-side control box 51, which is located at the upstream end of the backbone section 15 (the left end of the instrument panel backbone section 11); a branch control box 53, which is located in the branch section (the connection between the instrument panel backbone section 11 and the floor backbone section 13) at the middle of the backbone section 15; an intermediate control box 57, which is located at the middle of the backbone section 15 (the middle part of the floor backbone section 13); and control boxes 55 and 59, which are located at the downstream end of the backbone section 15 (the right end of the instrument panel backbone section 11 and the rear end of the floor backbone section 13).

[0383] like Figure 3 As shown in (a), the supply-side control box 51 is provided with: a main power connection 120, which connects the main power cable 81 to the instrument panel backbone trunk line 11; and a branch connection 121, which connects the front door branch sub-wiring harness 63 or sub-wiring harness 71 to the instrument panel backbone trunk line 11. The supply-side control box 51 can interconnect the power supply system, ground system, and communication system of each circuit between the main power cable 81, the instrument panel backbone trunk line 11, and the front door branch sub-wiring harness 63 and sub-wiring harness 71.

[0384] like Figure 3 As shown in (b), the supply-side control box 51 houses the circuit board 125 within a housing formed by the lower housing 122 and the upper housing 124. Male terminals 130, electrically connected to the respective flat conductors 100 of the auxiliary power system 25, the main power system 23, and the ground wire 27, mate with three female terminals 127 mounted on the circuit board 125. The auxiliary power system 25, the main power system 23, the ground wire 27, and the communication line 29 in the instrument panel backbone 11 are electrically branched via circuits or busbars formed on the substrate to multiple board connectors 131 located at one end edge of the circuit board 125 to form branch connection sections 121.

[0385] The main power connection 120 includes: a power connection 133, which is connected to the power line 82 of the main power cable 81; and a ground connection 135, which is connected to the ground line 84 of the main power cable 81.

[0386] like Figure 4 As shown in (a), the flat conductor 100 of the main power system 23 is connected to the double-ended bolt (power input terminal) 141 of the power connection portion 133 embedded in the lower housing 122. The flat conductor 100 of the ground wire 27 is connected to the double-ended bolt (power input terminal) 143 of the ground connection portion 135 embedded in the lower housing 122. The communication line 29 is connected to the circuit board 125 via, for example, a board connector (not shown).

[0387] like Figure 4 As shown in (b), the circuit board 125 is fixed to the lower housing 122 such that each female terminal 127 mates with a male terminal 130, which is electrically connected to the flat conductor 100. The circuit board 125 is equipped with a control unit 151, which distributes power from the power line 21 and signals from the communication line 29 to the engine compartment sub-harness 61, the front door branch sub-harness 63, or the sub-harness 71. The circuit board 125 is also equipped with multiple electrical components (accessories) and a switching circuit 153, which includes a field-programmable gate array (FPGA) device and a circuit module as constituent elements required for switching the connection states of the electrical components.

[0388] like Figure 4 As shown in (c), in the power connection section 133, the terminal 86 nut crimped to the end of the power line 82 of the main power cable 81 is fastened to the flat conductor 100 of the main power system 23. In the ground connection section 135, the terminal 86 nut crimped to the end of the ground wire 84 of the main power cable 81 is fastened to the flat conductor 100 of the ground wire 27. In this manner, the main power cable 81 can be connected and fixed to the instrument panel backbone section 11.

[0389] The board connector 131 of the branch connection section 121 is connected to the dashboard branch sub-wiring harness 31, the front door straight sub-wiring harness 63, and the module connector C connected to the end of the sub-wiring harness 71. The module connector C is capable of transmitting power from the power line 21 and the ground line 27, as well as signals from the communication line 29, to the various electrical components.

[0390] like Figure 6 As shown in (a), the branch control box 53 is located at the branch point in the middle of the backbone section 15, namely at the connection point between the instrument panel backbone section 11 and the floor backbone section 13, and includes a branch connection section 121 for connecting sub-wiring harnesses (branch lines) connected to electrical components (not shown). The branch control box 53 enables interconnection of the power supply system, ground system, and communication system of each circuit between the instrument panel backbone section 11, the floor backbone section 13, and the sub-wiring harnesses.

[0391] Similar to the supply-side control box 51, the branch control box 53 houses the circuit board 125 within a housing formed by the lower housing 122 and the upper housing 124. The auxiliary power system 25, main power system 23, ground wire 27, and communication line 29 in the instrument panel backbone 11 are electrically branched to multiple board connectors 131 located at one end edge of the circuit board 125 via circuits or busbars formed on the substrate.

[0392] The auxiliary power system 25, main power system 23, and ground wire 27 in the dashboard backbone section 11 and floor backbone section 13 can be secured to their flat conductors 100 by means of welding or bolting (see...). Figure 14 The communication lines 29 in the dashboard backbone section 11 and the floor backbone section 13 can be electrically connected and fixed to each other, for example, by connecting with a connector.

[0393] like Figure 6As shown in (b), the control box 55 is located at the downstream end of the backbone section 15, i.e., at the right end of the instrument panel backbone section 11, and includes a branch connection section 121 for connecting to the front door branch sub-wiring harness 63 or sub-wiring harness 73. The control box 55 can interconnect the power supply system, ground system, and communication system of the respective circuits between the instrument panel backbone section 11, the front door branch sub-wiring harness 63, and the sub-wiring harness 73.

[0394] Similar to the supply-side control box 51, the control box 55 houses the circuit board 125 within a housing formed by the lower housing 122 and the upper housing 124. The male terminals 130, electrically connected to the respective flat conductors 100 of the auxiliary power system 25, the main power system 23, and the ground wire 27, mate with the three female terminals 127 mounted on the circuit board 125 (see [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 3 (b) The auxiliary power system 25, main power system 23, ground wire 27 and communication line 29 in the instrument panel backbone section 11 are electrically branched to a plurality of board connectors 131 provided at one end edge of the circuit board 125 via circuits or busbars formed on the substrate to form a branch connection section 121.

[0395] The control box 59, located at the rear end of the floor slab trunk line 13, has the same configuration as the control box 55.

[0396] like Figure 6 As shown in (c), the intermediate control box 57 is located in the middle of the backbone wiring section 15, i.e., the middle of the floor backbone wiring section 13, and includes a branch connection section 121 for connecting to the rear door branch wiring harness 65, the center console branch wiring harness 66, the front seat branch wiring harness 67, the rear seat branch wiring harness 68, and the auxiliary battery 7. The intermediate control box 57 can interconnect the power supply system, ground system, and communication system of the respective circuits of the floor backbone wiring section 13, the rear door branch wiring harness 65, the center console branch wiring harness 66, the front seat branch wiring harness 67, the rear seat branch wiring harness 68, and the auxiliary battery 7.

[0397] Similar to the supply-side control box 51, the intermediate control box 57 houses the circuit board 125 within a housing formed by the lower shell 122 and the upper shell 124. The auxiliary power system 25, the main power system 23, the ground wire 27, and the communication line 29 in the floor backbone trunk section 13 are electrically branched to multiple board connectors 131 located at one end edge of the circuit board 125 via circuits or busbars formed on the substrate.

[0398] By appropriately modifying the various types of circuit boards 125 that have branch connection parts 121 corresponding to the grade or target specifications of the target vehicle, the aforementioned control boxes (supply-side control box 51, branch control box 53, intermediate control box 57, and control boxes 55 and 59) can accommodate most vehicle models, thus reducing the number of parts by using common components.

[0399] For example, Figure 5 (a) The circuit board 126 shown includes three board connectors 131 forming a branch connection 121, a control unit 151, and a single switching circuit 153.

[0400] In comparison, Figure 5 (b) The circuit board 125 shown includes six board connectors 131 forming a branch connection 121, a control unit 151 and three switching circuits 153.

[0401] Circuit board 126 and circuit board 125 can be housed in a common housing formed by lower housing 122 and upper housing 124.

[0402] (Module)

[0403] In the vehicle circuit 10 according to the first embodiment, the instrument panel branch line sub-wiring harness 31, front door branch line sub-wiring harness 63, rear door branch line sub-wiring harness 65, center console branch line sub-wiring harness 66, front seat branch line sub-wiring harness 67, rear seat branch line sub-wiring harness 68, etc., which are connected as branch lines and backbone lines 15, are configured as modules integrated with the instrument panel module 30, front door 33, rear door 35, center console 39, front seat 37, rear seat 38, etc.

[0404] In other words, the instrument panel branch sub-harness 31 is connected to the module driver 30b of the instrument panel harness 30a, which is electrically connected to the control unit of the electrical components mounted on the instrument panel module 30, and can therefore be configured as a module integrated with the instrument panel module 30.

[0405] Each front door branch sub-harness 63 is connected to a module driver 33b of the front door harness 33a, which is electrically connected to the control unit of the electrical components mounted on the front door 33, enabling contactless power supply and near-field wireless communication, and thus can be configured as a module integrated with the front door 33.

[0406] Each rear door branch sub-harness 65 is connected to a module driver 35b of the rear door sub-harness 35a, which is electrically connected to the control unit of the electrical components mounted on the rear door 35, enabling contactless power supply and near-field wireless communication, and thus can be configured as a module integrated with the rear door 35.

[0407] The center console branch wiring harness 66 is electrically connected to the module driver 39b of the center console wiring harness 39a, which is electrically connected to the control unit of the electrical components mounted on the center console 39, and thus can be configured as a module integrated with the instrument panel module 30.

[0408] Each front seat branch sub-wiring harness 67 is electrically connected to the module driver 37b of the front seat wiring harness 37a, which is electrically connected to the control unit of the electrical components mounted on the front seat 37, and thus can be configured as a module integrated with the front seat 37.

[0409] Each rear seat branch sub-harness 68 is electrically connected to a module driver 38b of the rear seat harness 38a, which is electrically connected to the control unit of the electrical components installed in the rear seat 38, and thus can be configured as a module integrated with the rear seat 38.

[0410] like Figure 1 As shown, the dashboard module 30 according to this embodiment is formed by multiple dashboard sub-modules such as glove box 32, central instrument cluster 34 and steering wheel 36, as well as the dashboard body.

[0411] like Figure 7 As shown, the supply-side control box 51, located on the left side of the instrument panel backbone section 11, is located on the left side of the body 1 of the instrument panel module 30 to which the glove box 32 is attached.

[0412] Therefore, when the mechanical relays or mechanical fuses used for power distribution are installed in the supply-side control box 51 which is electrically connected to the main battery 5 via the main power cable 81, the mechanical relays or mechanical fuses in the supply-side control box 51 can be easily accessed by removing the storage box, thus facilitating the maintenance of replacing the mechanical relays or mechanical fuses.

[0413] (Branch Box)

[0414] According to this embodiment, the vehicle circuit 10 may have a branch box 161 provided at the middle of the backbone section 15 (for example, at the middle of the floor backbone section 13), such as... Figure 8 As shown. Branch box 161 is connected to, for example, secondary battery 7.

[0415] In order to install a branch box 161 in the middle of the floor slab trunk line 13, firstly, as Figure 9 As shown in (a), the insulation cover 110 is stripped at predetermined locations of the auxiliary power system 25, the main power system 23 and the ground wire 27 to expose the flat conductor 100, and the connecting terminals 171, 172 and 173 are respectively connected to the flat conductor 100 by soldering or the like.

[0416] Next, as Figure 9As shown in (b), the secondary power system 25, the main power system 23 and the ground wire 27 are stacked so that the connection terminals 171, 172 and 173 are arranged side by side.

[0417] like Figure 9 As shown in (c), the portion of the insulation covering 110 of the floor backbone trunk section 13 that has been stripped is covered by a housing 162 with three double-ended bolts 167 screwed on, and the double-ended bolts 167 are respectively connected to the connecting terminals 171, 172 and 173, thereby passing through the through holes of the connecting terminals 171, 172 and 173.

[0418] like Figure 8 As shown, the LA terminal 166 is inserted through the double-ended bolt 167 and secured to the double-ended bolt 167 with a nut, wherein the LA terminal 166 is crimped to the ends of the power cables 163, 164, and 165 connected to the secondary battery 7. Therefore, the secondary power system 25 and the main power system 23 are connected to the positive terminal of the secondary battery 7 via power cables 163 and 164, and the ground wire 27 is connected to the negative terminal of the secondary battery 7 via power cable 165.

[0419] As described above, the branch box 161 is located in the middle of the floor backbone trunk section 13, so that the auxiliary battery 7 can be reliably and easily connected to the floor backbone trunk section 13.

[0420] (Effects of vehicle electrical systems)

[0421] As described above, the vehicle circuit 10 according to the first embodiment can provide a vehicle circuit with a simple structure by using a backbone section 15 and branch lines. The backbone section 15 has a predetermined current capacity and a predetermined communication capacity and is laid in the vehicle body 1. The branch lines (instrument panel branch line sub-harness 31, front door branch line sub-harness 63, rear door branch line sub-harness 65, center console branch line sub-harness 66, front seat branch line sub-harness 67, rear seat branch line sub-harness 68, luggage compartment branch line sub-harness 69, etc.) connect electrical components at various parts of the vehicle body to the backbone section 15 via five control boxes (supply-side control box 51, branch control box 53, intermediate control box 57, and control boxes 55 and 59). The five control boxes are arranged in a distributed manner along the backbone section 15.

[0422] In other words, it becomes easier to manufacture the backbone trunk line 15, which has a simple overall structure and is formed by the following components: an instrument panel backbone trunk line 11, which extends in the left-right direction of the vehicle body 1; and a floor backbone trunk line 13, which extends in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body 1 at approximately the center of the vehicle body 1. The backbone trunk line 15 has a segmented structure that can be divided into multiple parts between control boxes, and the parts can be interconnected via the control boxes.

[0423] By subdividing the various areas of the vehicle body, branch lines (instrument panel branch line sub-harness 31, front door branch line sub-harness 63, rear door branch line sub-harness 65, center console branch line sub-harness 66, front seat branch line sub-harness 67, rear seat branch line sub-harness 68, luggage compartment branch line sub-harness 69, etc.) are obtained, which are distributed along the main line section 15. Furthermore, because the differences in circuit specifications between the various areas are dispersed, the length of the wires can be reduced. Therefore, productivity can be improved, and transportation costs can be reduced due to the increased packaging rate of the miniaturized branch lines obtained through subdivision.

[0424] The vehicle electrical system 10 is formed separately from the backbone wiring section 15 and branch wiring. The backbone wiring section 15 is applicable to multiple vehicle models, grades, or options; the branch wiring (instrument panel branch wiring harness 31, front door branch wiring harness 63, rear door branch wiring harness 65, center console branch wiring harness 66, front seat branch wiring harness 67, rear seat branch wiring harness 68, luggage compartment branch wiring harness 69, etc.) varies based on multiple vehicle models, grades, or optional accessories. Therefore, even if the number of vehicle models, grades, or optional accessories increases, only branch wiring with different wiring needs to be prepared according to the vehicle model, grade, or optional accessory, which helps in the manufacturing of the vehicle electrical system 10 and helps reduce costs.

[0425] According to the first embodiment, the backbone trunk section 15 is formed in a T-shape, wherein the power line 21 and the communication line 29 branch at a branch section where a branch control box 53 is provided and serves as a connection between the instrument panel backbone trunk section 11 and the floor backbone trunk section 13. Therefore, since the backbone trunk section 15 branches into multiple parts at the branch section, multiple control boxes (supply-side control box 51, branch control box 53, intermediate control box 57, and control boxes 55 and 59) provided in a distributed manner in the instrument panel backbone trunk section 11 and the floor backbone trunk section 13 can be provided at various parts of the vehicle body 1. Therefore, power can be easily supplied to accessories located in various parts of the vehicle body 1 via branch lines connected to the control box (instrument panel branch line sub-harness 31, front door branch line sub-harness 63, rear door branch line sub-harness 65, center console branch line sub-harness 66, front seat branch line sub-harness 67, rear seat branch line sub-harness 68, luggage compartment branch line sub-harness 69, etc.), or communication data (signals) can be easily sent to or received from accessories. This allows for shorter branch lines.

[0426] The trunk line of the present invention is not limited to the T-shape formed by the dashboard backbone trunk line 11 and the floor backbone trunk line 13, but can take various forms such as I-shape or H-shape.

[0427] According to the vehicle circuit 10 of the first embodiment, the main battery (main power supply) 5 and the auxiliary battery (auxiliary power supply) 7 are distributed in the power lines 21 of the backbone wiring section 15. Therefore, voltage fluctuations can be reduced when the power required by each component (electrical component) is high by supplying current from each power source. In the event that the power supply from one power source is interrupted due to a vehicle collision, power can be supplied from the other power source, thus enabling the configuration of uninterrupted power lines 21.

[0428] Since the main battery 5 and the auxiliary battery 7, which are distributed in the vehicle, are interconnected via the power line 21 of the backbone section 15, regenerative energy can be easily restored in electric vehicles or hybrid vehicles, thereby improving the energy recovery rate.

[0429] Because multiple power supplies are provided, power backup can be implemented, thus reducing the impact of power failures.

[0430] (Modified Example)

[0431] The following text will describe in detail various modifications of the configuration of the vehicle circuit 10 according to the first embodiment.

[0432] Figure 10 This is an exploded perspective view showing a modified example of the material laid according to this embodiment.

[0433] The backbone wiring material 180 is provided with a power line 181 and a ground line 183 formed of aluminum flat conductors, and a communication line 185 formed of flexible printed circuit (FPC).

[0434] Therefore, the laying material 180 can be laid in a state where the power line 181 and the ground line 183 are parallel and adjacent to each other, and since the ground line 183 is stacked between the communication line 185 and the power line 181, the creeping of power noise can be prevented.

[0435] Since the power line 181 and ground line 183 in the wiring material 180 are formed of aluminum flat conductors and the communication line 185 is formed of FPC, a lightweight and thin backbone section can be provided.

[0436] Figure 11 This is a perspective view showing the main part of a modified example of a flat conductor according to this embodiment.

[0437] like Figure 11 As shown, the flat conductor 190 used to form a power line or ground line has a thin plate portion 191, which is suitably formed at a portion of the length direction of the flat conductor 190.

[0438] Therefore, the flat conductor 190 can easily be bent in the thickness direction at the thin plate portion 191, so that when the backbone section is laid in the vehicle body 1, it can easily be bent along the shape of the vehicle body. Thus, the laying performance of the backbone section can be improved.

[0439] Figure 12 This is a perspective view illustrating a fuse installed in a flat conductor according to this embodiment.

[0440] The power cord 193 connected to the battery is formed of a flat conductor, and a mounting hole 197 for the battery terminals to fit into is formed at the tip of the power cord 193.

[0441] The fuse 195 is integrally formed on the base end side of the mounting hole 197. The fuse 195 is obtained by setting a fusible part 199 made of a low melting point metal in a small diameter portion of a flat conductor with a reduced width. The fuse 195 is covered by a fuse housing 192 having a transparent cover 194.

[0442] Since the power cord 193 has an integrated fuse 195, when the power cord is connected to the battery, it is not necessary to install a separate fuse, and the number of components can be prevented from increasing.

[0443] Figure 13 A perspective view and a cross-sectional view are shown to illustrate an example of a power line and a ground line formed by a flat conductor according to this embodiment being connected to a battery.

[0444] like Figure 13 As shown, the power supply 201 and ground wire 203 in the backbone section are formed of flat conductors and have through holes formed at the tip of the flat conductors.

[0445] An inwardly curved L-shaped busbar 217 is electrically connected to and fixed to the positive terminal 213 of the battery 210, and an inwardly curved L-shaped busbar 215 is electrically connected to and fixed to the negative terminal 211. Through holes formed at the tips of the intersecting busbars 215 and 217 are concentrically arranged so that a bolt 221 can pass through the through holes.

[0446] The power cord 201 overlaps with the upper surface of the busbar 217, and the ground wire 203 overlaps with the lower surface of the busbar 215. A perforated insulating sheet 219 is sandwiched between the leading ends of the busbars 215 and 217, and in this state, the bolt 221 passing through it is tightened and fixed by the nut 223.

[0447] As a result, the power line 201 is connected to the positive terminal 213 of the battery 210 via the busbar 217, and the ground line 203 is connected to the negative terminal 211 of the battery 210 via the busbar 215, without the need for a complex connection structure.

[0448] According to this battery connection structure, since the power line 201 and ground line 203 formed by flat conductors can be connected to the battery 210 separately in a parallel arrangement, noise immunity can be improved.

[0449] Figure 14 This is a perspective view illustrating an example of a connection structure for a fabrication material formed from a flat conductor according to this embodiment.

[0450] exist Figure 14 In the connection structure shown, for example, in Figure 6 In the branch control box 53 shown in (a), the flat conductors 100 of the auxiliary power system 25, the main power system 23 and the ground wire 27 in the instrument panel backbone trunk section 11 and the floor backbone trunk section 13 are electrically connected and fixed to each other by bolts.

[0451] First, a portion of the insulation coating 110 of the auxiliary power system 25, main power system 23, and ground wire 27 in the dashboard backbone section 11 is stripped to expose the flat conductor 100, and a through hole is formed in said portion. Similarly, a portion of the insulation coating 110 of the auxiliary power system 25, main power system 23, and ground wire 27 in the floor backbone section 13 is stripped to expose the flat conductor 100, and a through hole is formed in said portion.

[0452] Next, the flat conductors 100 of the auxiliary power system 25, the main power system 23 and the ground wire 27 in the floor backbone section 13 are overlapped with the flat conductors 100 of the auxiliary power system 25, the main power system 23 and the ground wire 27 in the instrument panel backbone section 11.

[0453] A perforated insulating plate 237 is sandwiched between the overlapping secondary power supply system 25 and the overlapping main power supply system 23, and between the overlapping main power supply system 23 and the overlapping ground wire 27. In this state, an insulating bolt 238 passing through the perforated plate is tightened and secured with an insulating nut 239. The insulating bolt 238 and the insulating nut 239 are preferably made of electrically insulating engineering plastic or ceramic.

[0454] As a result, the flat conductors 100 of the auxiliary power system 25, the main power system 23, and the ground wire 27 in the instrument panel backbone section 11 and the floor backbone section 13 can be securely fastened to each other by bolts.

[0455] Figure 15 A perspective view is shown to illustrate the arrangement of the power cords according to this embodiment.

[0456] Figure 15The wiring material 240 shown in (a) includes: a secondary power system 241, a main power system 243, a ground wire 245, and a communication line 247, which are each formed by wires with twisted wires.

[0457] The laying material 240 is formed from stranded wire with high versatility, thus it can be easily manufactured and freely bent in all directions. Therefore, the laying performance is improved.

[0458] Assuming that the installation material 240 has sufficient current capacity to be used in a backbone section such as 12V or 48V, therefore, when the 12V voltage is supplied to the backbone section during normal operation and the power consumption of the accessories is high, the voltage is boosted to 48V by a DC / DC converter (high voltage / low voltage converter) and supplied to the backbone section. As described above, the backbone section is used while switching between 12V and 48V, thus easily compensating for the power supply voltage of the accessories.

[0459] Figure 15 (b) The laying material 250 shown has a 12V power system 251, a 12V ground wire 255, a 48V power system 253, and a 48V ground wire 257 arranged side by side, each formed by a wire with twisted wires.

[0460] Therefore, the backbone section, including the laying material 250, is used while switching between 12V and 48V, thus making it easy to compensate for the power supply voltage of the accessories.

[0461] Figure 15 (c) The laying material 260 shown has a 12V power system 251, a ground wire 259 shared by 12V and 48V, and a 48V power system 253 arranged side by side, each formed by wires with twisted wires.

[0462] Therefore, by using a backbone section including laying material 260, space or weight can be reduced by reducing the number of wires.

[0463] Figure 16 A perspective view is shown to illustrate the arrangement of the laying materials according to this embodiment.

[0464] Figure 16 The laying material 270 shown in (a) has the following configuration: the twisted wires of the main power system 272 and the ground wire 274 overlap the twisted wires of the auxiliary power system 271 and the ground wire 273, and the twisted wires of the communication lines 275 and 276 overlap the twisted wires of the main power system 272 and the ground wire 274.

[0465] Therefore, in the fabric 270, noise resistance can be improved by interlocking the noise.

[0466] Figure 16 (b) shows the following configuration of the layout material 280: the ground wire 283, the main power system 282, the ground wire 283 and the communication line 285 are stacked sequentially on the auxiliary power system 281 formed by flat conductors.

[0467] Therefore, in the laying material 280, the noise reduction performance can be improved by distributing the ground wire 283 in a distributed manner.

[0468] Figure 16 (c) The fabric 290 shown has the following configuration: the secondary power system 291 and the main power system 292 formed by flat conductors are covered by braids 293 and 294 on their outer peripheries, respectively, and then the secondary power system 291 and the main power system 292 overlap each other in the thickness direction, and the communication line 285 is stacked on it.

[0469] Therefore, in the fabric 290, the braided fabrics 293 and 294 achieve both grounding and shielding, thus improving noise immunity.

[0470] exist Figure 16 In the layout material 300 shown in (d), the ground wire 303 is sandwiched between the noise-containing auxiliary power system 301 and the communication line 305, and the ground wire 304 is sandwiched between the main power system 302 and the communication line 305, thereby shielding the communication line 305.

[0471] Ground wires 304 and 303 are positioned above and below communication line 305, thereby improving shielding performance.

[0472] Since the auxiliary power system 301, the main power system 302, and the ground wires 303 and 304 are formed by flat conductors and stacked on top of each other, the face-to-face area between the power system and the ground wire is large and the gap between them is small, which improves the shielding performance.

[0473] Figure 17 This is a perspective view illustrating the arrangement of the laying materials according to this embodiment.

[0474] Figure 17 (a) to 17(d) are cross-sectional views illustrating the layout patterns of laying materials 310, 320, 330 and 340, which respectively include: a main power system 311 and a secondary power system 312, which are formed by stranded wires; a ground wire 313, which is formed by stranded wires; and a communication line 314, which is formed by plastic optical fiber.

[0475] The use of noise-resistant optical communication on the respective communication lines 314 of the laying materials 310, 320, 330 and 340 increases the flexibility of the backbone network layout.

[0476] Figure 17 The installation material 350 shown in (e) has the following configuration: a main power system 351 and an auxiliary power system 352 formed by aluminum round rod conductors, a pair of ground wires 313 formed by stranded wires, and a communication line 314 formed by plastic optical fiber are bundled together.

[0477] Therefore, damage to the communication line 314, which is located in the gap between the auxiliary power system 352 formed by the round rod conductor and the pair of ground wires 313, is prevented, and the communication line is easy to lay in the vehicle body 1.

[0478] Figure 18 This is a cross-sectional view used to illustrate the arrangement of the laying materials according to this embodiment.

[0479] like Figure 18 As shown in (a), the laying material 360 has the following configuration: wherein a 12V main power supply system 361 and a main ground wire 362, a 12V auxiliary power supply system 365 and a auxiliary ground wire 366, a 48V main ground wire 363 and a main power supply system 364, and a 48V auxiliary ground wire 367 and an auxiliary power supply system 368 are alternately arranged.

[0480] Therefore, the material 360 has improved shielding performance, thus eliminating the need for shielding components and further noise suppression filters.

[0481] like Figure 18 As shown in (b), the laying material 370 has the following configuration: the main power system 371 and the auxiliary power system 373, the ground wires 375 and 377, and a pair of communication lines 376 and 378 are arranged parallel to each other. The main power system 371 and the auxiliary power system 373 are formed by wires with twisted wires and are arranged side by side. The ground wires 375 and 377 are formed by braided wires covering the outer peripheral surfaces of the main power system 371 and the auxiliary power system 373. The pair of communication lines 376 and 378 are arranged in the vertical gap between the main power system 371 and the auxiliary power system 373 arranged side by side.

[0482] Therefore, in the laying material 370, the outer peripheral surfaces of the main power system 371 and the auxiliary power system 373 are covered by ground wires 375 and 377, respectively, which can reduce the impact of noise on communication lines 376 and 378.

[0483] Space is saved because both shielding and grounding are implemented, and communication lines 376 and 378 are located in the vertical gap between the main power system 371 and the auxiliary power system 373.

[0484] Figure 19 A cross-sectional view is shown to illustrate the plate connection structure of the round rod conductor according to this embodiment.

[0485] like Figure 19 As shown in (a), for example, when the fabric 401 having a round rod conductor 403 is electrically connected to the circuit board 411 in the control box, firstly, the insulating cover 404 at the connection point of the fabric 401 is peeled off, so that the round rod conductor 403 is exposed.

[0486] The crimp terminal 405, made of copper alloy, includes a pair of crimp tabs 407 and a pair of leads 409, which are inserted into the through holes 413 of the circuit board 411.

[0487] The crimping tab 407 of the crimping terminal 405 is crimped and fixed to the exposed round rod conductor 403 of the fabric material 401, and then, as Figure 19 As shown in (b), the lead 409 of the crimp terminal 405 is inserted into the through hole 413 of the circuit board 411 for soldering. As a result, the round rod conductor 403 of the fabric material 401 is electrically connected to the predetermined circuit of the circuit board 411.

[0488] Therefore, the board connection structure of the round rod conductor 403 according to this embodiment eliminates the need to process the round rod conductor 403 for connection to the circuit board 411, and eliminates the need for specialized processing equipment such as dedicated stamping devices or stamping dies. This reduces processing costs. In other words, in the prior art, the connecting portion needs to be processed into a flat shape and welded or bolted to connect the round rod conductor to the mating terminal or wire, thus increasing processing costs.

[0489] Since the round rod conductor 403 is exposed by peeling off the insulating cover 404 at any position of the laying material 401, the crimp terminal 405 can be installed at any position of the round rod conductor 403, thereby increasing the freedom of layout of the laying material 401.

[0490] Figure 20 This is a perspective view illustrating the structure of a terminal formed by using stranded wire according to the present embodiment.

[0491] like Figure 20 As shown, when a fabrication material 420 formed of an electric wire having, for example, an aluminum alloy stranded wire 421 is fixed to a double-ended bolt such as a battery terminal, the stranded wire 421 exposed at the end of the fabrication material 420 by peeling off the insulation coating 404 is stamped into an LA terminal shape, thereby forming an LA terminal portion 425.

[0492] Therefore, it is not necessary to connect the LA terminal to the end of the fabric 420, thus reducing the number of parts.

[0493] Figure 21An enlarged view of the main parts is shown to illustrate an example of the terminal structure of the power cord according to this embodiment.

[0494] As the connection terminals for the power lines in the backbone section according to this embodiment, for example, connection terminals with a terminal size called "1.5 terminal" and connection terminals with a terminal size called "4.8 terminal" are used.

[0495] like Figure 21 As shown in (a), the male tab terminal 430, referred to as the “4.8 terminal”, has a terminal width W of 4.8 mm, which makes the mating female terminal larger.

[0496] Therefore, the terminal connection portion is formed to have such Figure 21 (b) shows a three-dimensional U-shaped cross-section similar to the male terminal 431, thus enabling a structure that can handle large currents even with a small size by increasing the surface area (contact area with the mating terminal).

[0497] The terminal connection portion is formed as follows Figure 21 (c) shows a three-dimensional rectangular tubular shape similar to the male terminal 433, thus providing a structure that can handle large currents even with small size by increasing the surface area.

[0498] The terminal connection portion is formed as follows Figure 21 (d) shows a three-dimensional cylindrical shape similar to the male terminal 435, thus providing a structure that can handle large currents even with small size by increasing the surface area.

[0499] Figure 22 This is a perspective view illustrating an example of forming a round rod conductor according to this embodiment.

[0500] exist Figure 22 In the fabrication material 401 shown, an aluminum round rod conductor 403 is formed by using a secondary intermediate 445 obtained when manufacturing the core wire 447 of an aluminum wire.

[0501] In other words, for example, a cylindrical primary intermediate 443 is formed from an aluminum ingot 441, and then a long secondary intermediate 445 is formed by extending the primary intermediate 443, and then the secondary intermediate 445 is stretched to have a small diameter, thereby forming a core wire 447 in a known aluminum wire.

[0502] Therefore, by forming an insulating coating 404 only on the circumference of the secondary intermediate 445 used as the round rod conductor 403, the processing cost of the round rod conductor 403 can be reduced compared to the case where the round rod conductor is specially processed and manufactured.

[0503] Figure 23This is an explanatory diagram comparing the cross-sectional area of ​​the wire harness in the prior art with the cross-sectional area of ​​the fabrication material according to this embodiment.

[0504] like Figure 23 As shown on the left, the existing wiring harness W / H, which includes power lines, ground lines, and communication lines laid in the vehicle body, is a wiring harness formed by multiple wires 452, and there is a trend of increasing cross-sectional diameter.

[0505] In contrast, Figure 23 In the right part of the diagram, according to this embodiment, the power line 451, the ground line 453, and the communication line 456 are integrally held by a clamp 455. In the power line 451 and the ground line 453, an insulating coating 404 is formed on the outer periphery of the aluminum round rod conductor 403. The communication line 456 is formed of a plastic optical fiber 454. The clamp 455 is formed at predetermined intervals along the length direction.

[0506] Therefore, when comparing the cross-sectional area of ​​the insulation sheath R and conductor M in the wire harness W / H with that in the laying material 450, although the cross-sectional area of ​​conductor M is the same, the cross-sectional area of ​​the insulation sheath R in the wire harness W / H is larger than that in the laying material 450. In other words, in the prior art wire harness W / H, each of the multiple wires 452 has an insulation sheath, while in the laying material 450, the wires are unified into a single power line 451, a single ground line 453, and a single communication line 456, which allows for a reduction in the cross-sectional area of ​​the insulation sheath R, and as a result, allows the laying material 450 to be very thin.

[0507] In the clamp 455, which is integrally molded to the fabric 450, the engaging clips 459 protrude from both ends of the clamp body 457. Therefore, the engaging clips 459 are inserted into and engaged with through holes in the body panel or the like, thereby making it easy to lay the fabric 450 in the body and fix it to the body.

[0508] Figure 24 A perspective view and a cross-sectional view are shown to illustrate the main parts of the terminal connection structure of the round rod conductor according to this embodiment.

[0509] For example, when the fabric 401 with the round rod conductor 403 is electrically connected to the circuit board in the control box, firstly, the insulating cover 404 at the connection point of the fabric 401 is partially peeled off, so that the round rod conductor 403 is exposed.

[0510] The connecting terminal 461, made of copper alloy, includes: a fixing portion 463 having a cylindrical inner surface that contacts the outer surface of the round rod conductor 403; and a tab terminal portion 465 that protrudes outward from the fixing portion 463.

[0511] The fixing portion 463 of the connecting terminal 461 is fixed to the exposed round rod conductor 403 of the fabric material 401 by welding or by using ultrasonic waves. The tab terminal portion 465 mates with a mating terminal provided on the circuit board, so that the round rod conductor 403 of the fabric material 401 is electrically connected to a predetermined circuit of the circuit board. Since the fixing portion 463 has a cylindrical inner surface that contacts the outer surface of the round rod conductor 403, the connecting terminal 461 ensures sufficient contact area with respect to the round rod conductor 403, thereby ensuring reliable connection.

[0512] like Figure 24 As shown in (a), in the backbone section 460 constructed by arranging multiple fabric materials 401 side by side, each tab terminal portion 465 is fitted to a mating terminal in a state where it protrudes outward in the diametrical direction of the fabric material 401 parallel to each other. Therefore, the tab terminal portion 465 can be fitted to the mating terminal relative to the multiple fabric materials 401 arranged side by side without changing the arrangement interval.

[0513] Figure 25 A perspective view and a cross-sectional view are shown to illustrate the main parts of the control box connection structure for the round rod conductor according to this embodiment.

[0514] like Figure 25 As shown in (a) and 25(b), when the main power system, auxiliary power system and ground wire forming the backbone are formed by aluminum round rod conductors 473, a terminal connection portion 475 with a small diameter is formed at the tip of each round rod conductor 473, and a mating female terminal 477 made of aluminum alloy to be fitted to the terminal connection portion 475 is provided in each terminal receiving chamber 471.

[0515] If the tip of the round conductor 473 is inserted into the terminal receiving chamber 471 of the control box 470, which serves as the male terminal, the backbone section is electrically connected to the control box 470.

[0516] Therefore, it is not necessary to separately connect the connection terminals to the tips of each round rod conductor 473 that is electrically connected to the control box 470, thus reducing the number of parts.

[0517] Figure 26 A perspective view is shown illustrating the main parts of a modified example of a round rod conductor according to this embodiment.

[0518] form Figure 26 (a) shows the layout material 480, wherein the circular cross-section portion 481 formed by the aluminum round rod conductor, the plate-shaped portion 483 formed by the thick aluminum flat conductor, and the thin plate-shaped portion 485 formed by the thin aluminum flat conductor are connected to each other so that their shapes change seamlessly along the length direction.

[0519] The plate-shaped portion 483 is easy to bend in the thickness direction, and the thin plate-shaped portion 485 is even easier to bend. The circular cross-section portion 481 is more difficult to bend than the plate-shaped portion 483 or the thin plate-shaped portion 485, but it can bend freely in all directions.

[0520] Therefore, the backbone section formed by the laying material 480 can be laid out in a three-dimensional manner corresponding to the laying path of the vehicle body.

[0521] form Figure 26 (a) shows the layout material 490, wherein the plate-shaped portion 493 formed by a thick aluminum flat conductor and the circular cross-section portion 495 formed by an aluminum round rod conductor are connected to each other, so that their shapes change seamlessly along the length direction.

[0522] The plate-shaped portion 493 has a smaller height than the circular cross-section portion 495, and is used in parts where a reduced height is required.

[0523] Therefore, since the plate-shaped portion 493 is used in the part where a reduced height is required, and the circular cross-section portion 495 is used in the part that facilitates the layout of the three-dimensional path, the backbone portion formed by stacking multiple layout materials 490 can be easily laid out in a three-dimensional manner corresponding to the layout path of the vehicle body.

[0524] The fabrication materials 480 and 490 can be formed by using aluminum round or rectangular rods without the need for aluminum strands, thereby reducing manufacturing costs.

[0525] Figure 27 This is a cross-sectional view used to illustrate a modified example of the material arrangement according to this embodiment.

[0526] Figure 27 The fabrication material 500 shown is a coaxial cable, including: a center conductor 501; an insulation layer 505, which is coaxially disposed outside the center conductor 501; and a ground wire 503, which is formed by braided wires covering the outer peripheral surface of the insulation layer 505.

[0527] Current flows through the center conductor 501, which serves as the power supply line, and signals flow through the center conductor 501 according to power line communication (PLC) technology.

[0528] Therefore, in the laying material 500, two constituent elements such as the center conductor 501 and the ground wire 503 can handle three functions such as power line, ground wire and signal line, and are formed into a thick coaxial cable by using a coaxial structure, thereby enabling the flow of large current.

[0529] Figure 28 This is a cross-sectional view used to illustrate a modified example of the material arrangement according to this embodiment.

[0530] Figure 28 The wiring material 510 shown includes: a power cord 515, which is formed by a plurality of stranded Litz wires (electric wires) 511; and a ground wire 513, which is configured as a braided wire surrounding the outside of the power cord 515.

[0531] Therefore, the wiring material 510 is a compact wire that resists noise.

[0532] Figure 29 A cross-sectional view is shown to illustrate a modified example of the material arrangement according to this embodiment.

[0533] like Figure 29 As shown, the laying material 520 has the following configuration: a power line 521 formed by multiple core wires 524 and a ground wire 522 formed by multiple core wires 524 are arranged in parallel at predetermined intervals, and in this state are covered by an insulating cover 523 having an elliptical cross section.

[0534] The two ends of the power line 521 and the ground line 522 are respectively connected to the terminal 525, and the terminal 525 is housed in the connector housing 527.

[0535] Therefore, in the wiring material 520, the power line 521 and the ground line 522 can be covered by a single insulation sheath 523, thereby reducing the wiring space and manufacturing costs compared to the prior art wire harnesses where each of the multiple core wires is covered by an insulation sheath.

[0536] Figure 30 A cross-sectional view is shown to illustrate a modified example of the material arrangement according to this embodiment.

[0537] Figure 30 The laying material 530 shown in (a) has the following configuration: a power line 531 formed by multiple Litz wires (enameled wires) 533 and a ground wire 532 formed by multiple Litz wires (enameled wires) 533 are covered by an insulating cover 534 with an elliptical cross section while in close proximity to each other.

[0538] In other words, the power line 531 and the ground line 532 do not have a sheath, but are formed by Litz wire 533, so that they do not short-circuit with each other even when they are close to each other. The power line 531 and the ground line 532, which do not have a sheath, are covered by an insulating sheath 534 when they are close to each other, so that the layout material 530 can be compact.

[0539] Figure 30 (b) The laying material 540 shown has the following configuration: the power line 531 formed by multiple Litz wires 533 and the ground wire 532 formed by multiple Litz wires 533 are covered by an insulating cover 543 with a circular cross-section while in close proximity to each other.

[0540] Figure 30 (c) The laying material 550 shown has the following configuration: a power line 551 with a semi-circular cross-section formed by multiple Litz wires 533 and a ground wire 553 with a semi-circular cross-section formed by multiple Litz wires 533 are covered by an insulating cover 554 with a circular cross-section when they are combined with each other to have a circular cross-section.

[0541] Figure 30 The laying material 560 shown in (d) has the following configuration: the auxiliary power line 561 formed by multiple Litz wires 533, the main power line 562 formed by multiple Litz wires 533, and the ground wire 563 formed by multiple Litz wires 533 are covered by an insulating cover 564 with an elliptical cross section while in close proximity to each other.

[0542] Figure 31 A cross-sectional view is shown to illustrate a modified example of the material arrangement according to this embodiment.

[0543] like Figure 31 As shown, the laying material 570 has the following configuration: a power line 571 formed by multiple Litz wires 533 and a ground wire 573 formed by multiple Litz wires 533 are covered by an insulating cover 574 with an elliptical cross section in a twisted state to improve the noise cancellation effect.

[0544] The two ends of the power line 571 and the ground line 573 are respectively connected to the terminal 578, and the terminal 578 is housed in the connector housing 579.

[0545] Therefore, in the wiring material 570, the stranded power wire 571 and ground wire 573 can be covered by a single insulation sheath 574, thereby reducing the wiring space compared to prior art wire harnesses where each of multiple core wires is covered by an insulation sheath. In the wiring material 570, the Litz wires 533 can be in close contact with each other, effectively reducing noise. In the wiring material 570, the insulation sheath 574 can be formed simultaneously with the stranding of the power wire 571 and ground wire 573, thus allowing manufacturing in a single wire manufacturing process, thereby reducing processing costs.

[0546] Figure 32 This is a plan view used to illustrate a modified example of the material arrangement according to this embodiment.

[0547] Figure 32The fabric material 580 shown has a configuration such as braided wire, wherein a power line 581 formed by multiple Litz wires 584 and a ground line 583 formed by multiple Litz wires 584 are braided together. The two ends of the power line 581 and the ground line 583 are connected to terminals 585 by soldering or ultrasonic welding, respectively. Because the Litz wires 584 are not conductive to each other, the braided power line 581 and ground line 583 can maintain independent circuit paths.

[0548] Therefore, in the laying material 580, the power line 581 and the ground line 583 are interwoven, so that the Litz wire 584 are in close contact with each other, thus effectively reducing noise.

[0549] Figure 33 Partial perspective and cross-sectional views are shown to illustrate examples of the layout of the laying material according to this embodiment.

[0550] like Figure 33 As shown in (a), the fabrication material 590 is integrally arranged to overlap with the reinforcing portion 597 having a semi-circular cross-sectional shape. In this fabrication material 590, the power line 591, ground line 593, and communication line 595 are covered by an insulating coating 596 having a semi-circular cross-sectional shape. Therefore, the fabrication material 590 can be miniaturized by improving space efficiency.

[0551] like Figure 33 As shown in (b), with the auxiliary power system 25, the main power system 23, the ground wire 27 and the communication line 29 stacked, the laying material 600 is laid in the reinforcing part 601 with a rectangular cross-section shape. Therefore, the laying material 600 can be miniaturized by improving space efficiency.

[0552] like Figure 33 As shown in (c), the deployment material 610 has the following configuration: a ground wire 617 is stacked on a communication line 619, and a power line 611 formed by a main power system 613 and a secondary power system 615 stacked on top of the main power system 613 is stacked on the ground wire 617. A sheath 612 covers the perimeter to bring the system together.

[0553] Therefore, the laying material 610 is shielded by the ground wire 617 and can prevent the noise of the power line 611 from creeping in.

[0554] Figure 34 This is a partial cross-sectional perspective view used to illustrate a modified example of the vehicle circuitry according to this embodiment.

[0555] exist Figure 34 In the backbone section 620 shown, the trunk line between the multiple control boxes 621, 623 and 625 is formed by a laying material 627 having round rod conductors and a laying material 629 having flat conductors.

[0556] According to the backbone section 620 of this embodiment, the laying materials 627 and 629, which have conductors suitable for the laying path of vehicles, can be used for each trunk line between multiple control boxes 621, 623 and 625, thereby further improving the laying performance.

[0557] Figure 35 This is a perspective view illustrating the main part of an example of the joining form of the laid material according to this embodiment.

[0558] like Figure 35 As shown, the fabric material 630 has the following configuration: two sheet-like fabric materials 631 and 632 are connected to each other by abutting their facing surfaces, thereby becoming integrated. Specifically, a protrusion 634 is formed on the right end surface of the fabric material 631, and a recess 636 having a shape complementary to the shape of the protrusion 634 is formed on the left end surface of the fabric material 632.

[0559] The electrodes of the power line 633, ground line 635, and signal line 637 are respectively arranged to expose to the right end surface of the fabric 631. Although not shown, similarly, electrodes capable of contacting the power line 633, ground line 635, and signal line 637 are also provided on the left end surface of the fabric 632.

[0560] As described above, by selecting types of pre-standardized layout materials 631 and 632 with pre-defined shapes and electrode specifications for the connection points, and by combining the selected components, it becomes possible to configure layout materials 630 corresponding to various specifications. In this case, the number of types of standard layout materials 630 can be reduced, and the number of components can also be reduced.

[0561] Figure 36 This is a perspective view illustrating the main part of an example of the joining form of the laid material according to this embodiment.

[0562] like Figure 36 As shown, the fabric material 640 has the following configuration: two sheet-like fabric materials 642 and 646 are connected to each other by abutting their facing surfaces, thereby becoming integrated. Specifically, a plurality of recesses 636 are formed at predetermined intervals along the length direction on the right side surface of the fabric material 642, and a plurality of protrusions 648 having shapes complementary to the shapes of the recesses 636 are formed at predetermined intervals along the length direction on the left side surface of the fabric material 646.

[0563] In the laying material 642, the 12V main power system 641, the 12V auxiliary power system 643, the 12V ground wire 645 and the signal line 647 are arranged side by side and are each formed by wires with twisted wires.

[0564] In the laying material 646, the 48V power supply system 651 and the 48V ground wire 649 are arranged side by side and are each formed by wires with twisted wires.

[0565] As described above, according to this embodiment, the fabric materials 642 and 646 with voltage difference are combined with each other to serve as a single fabric material 640. Fabric materials with voltage difference can be easily added in the future. Fabric materials 642 and 646 can be fixed to each other by a simple operation of engaging the protrusion 648 with the recess 636.

[0566] Figure 37 An exploded perspective view is shown illustrating the main parts of a modified example of the control box according to this embodiment.

[0567] like Figure 37 As shown in (a), the control box 650 disposed along the backbone section 661 includes: a control box body 658 connected to the backbone section 661; and card holders 653 and 655, which can be attached to and detached from the tab terminal 656 of the control box body 658.

[0568] Card holder 653 has four connector ports 652, which form a branch line connection portion for connection with a branch line module connector (not shown). Card holder 655 has six connector ports 652, which form a branch line connection portion for connection with a branch line module connector (not shown).

[0569] Therefore, by appropriately selecting card boxes 653 and 655 and installing the card boxes in a common control box body 658, the control box 650 has a varying number of modules to be connected, and the control box at the vehicle equipment level can be easily set in the backbone section 661.

[0570] like Figure 37 As shown in (b), the control box 660 disposed along the backbone section 661 includes: a control box body 658 connected to the backbone section 661; and card holders 657 and 659 which can be attached to the control box body 658 and detached from the control box body 658.

[0571] Card holder 657 has a configuration corresponding to a 48V power supply, which has a connector port 654 corresponding to a "4.8 terminal", etc. Card holder 659 has a configuration corresponding to a 12V power supply, which has a connector port 652 corresponding to a "1.5 terminal", etc.

[0572] Therefore, the control box 660 can accommodate 12V power supply, 48V power supply, and both power supply variations by selecting card holders 657 and 659 and installing them in a common control box body 658. Consequently, the backbone unit 661 with the control box 660 can accommodate devices with different voltages by boosting or bucking a single voltage.

[0573] Figure 38 A partial cross-sectional perspective view is shown to illustrate a modified example of the material arrangement according to this embodiment.

[0574] like Figure 38 As shown in (a), the laying material 670 includes: a ground wire 671, which is formed of a flat conductor; and a main power system 673 and a secondary power system 675, which are formed of round rod conductors disposed on both sides of the ground wire 671. The ground wire 671 has a concave surface 672, which has a semi-circular shape on the surface facing the main power system 673 and the secondary power system 675 to increase the facing area with the main power system 673 and the secondary power system 675.

[0575] Therefore, the noise resistance of the fabric 670 is improved due to the increased facing area with the main power system 673 and the auxiliary power system 675.

[0576] Ground wire 671 faces the main power system 673 and auxiliary power system 675, which are formed by round conductors, and therefore has a semi-circular concave surface 672. However, when the main power system 673 and auxiliary power system 675 are formed by flat conductors, ground wire 671 has a flat surface. In other words, the facing surface of ground wire 671 has a shape that is complementary to the shape of the main power system 673 and auxiliary power system 675.

[0577] like Figure 38 As shown in (b), the laying material 674 has the following configuration: the main power system 677 and the auxiliary power system 678, a pair of ground wires 676 and 676, and a pair of communication lines 679 and 679 are arranged parallel to each other. The main power system 677 and the auxiliary power system 678 are formed by stranded wires and are arranged side by side so as to be close to each other. The pair of ground wires 676 and 676 are formed by flat conductors and are arranged above and below the main power system 677 and the auxiliary power system 678, parallel to the arrangement direction of the main power system 677 and the auxiliary power system 678. The pair of communication lines 679 and 679 are formed by stranded wires and are arranged in the vertical gap between the flat ground wire 676 and the adjacent main power system 677 or auxiliary power system 678.

[0578] Therefore, the upper or lower side of the main power system 677 or the auxiliary power system 678 is covered by a pair of ground wires 676 formed by flat conductors, so the laying material 674 can prevent the communication lines 679 and 679 from being affected by noise.

[0579] Because communication lines 679 and 679 are located in the vertical gap between the flat ground wire 676 and the adjacent main power system 677 or auxiliary power system 678, space can be saved.

[0580] Figure 39 A perspective view is shown to illustrate an example of the layout of the laying material according to this embodiment.

[0581] like Figure 39 As shown in (a), the fabric 680, in which the main power system 681, ground wire 683, and auxiliary power system 685 arranged side by side are covered by an insulating cover 687, is capable of bending in the thickness direction. However, when this fabric 680 is laid in the vehicle body, it tends to return to a straight shape due to elastic repulsion, making it difficult to lay the fabric 680 at corners or other locations.

[0582] Therefore, as Figure 39 As shown in (b), clamping members 682 and 684, having shapes bent at predetermined angles, are provided on the front and back sides of the fabric 680, thus enabling the fabric 680 to be maintained in the desired shape along its laying path. Therefore, the laying operability of the fabric 680 is improved.

[0583] Figure 40 This is a schematic plan view used to illustrate a modified example of the vehicle circuitry according to this embodiment.

[0584] like Figure 40 As shown, the backbone section 700, including power line 711 and ground line 713, is connected to the battery 706 and alternator 707, which serve as power sources. Multiple control boxes 701, 703, and 705 are distributed within the backbone section 700. Accessories 715 and motors 717 are connected to control boxes 701, 703, and 705.

[0585] Multiple auxiliary batteries 720 are connected to the power lines 711 and ground lines 713 inside and near the respective control boxes 701, 703 and 705.

[0586] Therefore, in the backbone section 700, the auxiliary battery 720 is located near the noise source, which makes it easy to absorb noise and thus prevents noise from entering the ECU.

[0587] Since the multiple control boxes 701, 703 and 705 are arranged in a distributed manner, there is no problem even if the noise emission device or the noise-affected device is located at any position in the backbone section 700, thus improving noise immunity.

[0588] Figure 41 A schematic plan view is shown to illustrate a modified example of the vehicle circuitry according to this embodiment.

[0589] As in Figure 41 In the backbone wiring sections 730, 740, 750, and 760 shown in (a) to 41(d), the battery 732 can be connected to any location in the backbone wiring section depending on the vehicle's condition. In this case, to eliminate the effects of voltage fluctuations or noise, it is preferable to use low-impedance wiring materials (power line 735 and ground line 737) as the wiring materials for the backbone wiring sections 730, 740, 750, and 760 between control box 731 and control box 733.

[0590] As in Figure 41 The backbone section 770 shown in (e) may have a battery 732 housed in the control box 771.

[0591] Figure 42 This is a schematic configuration diagram used to illustrate a modified example of the vehicle circuitry according to this embodiment.

[0592] like Figure 42 As shown, a backbone section 780 with a power line 782 and a ground line 784 is connected to a battery 790 and an alternator 791, which serve as power sources. Multiple control boxes 781, 783, and 785 are distributed within the backbone section 780. Accessories 787, 788, and 789 are connected to control boxes 781, 783, and 785, respectively. A secondary battery can be connected to the backbone section 780 at the rearmost side.

[0593] Battery 790 and alternator 791 are grounded to vehicle body 792. High-current system accessories 788 and 789 are also grounded to vehicle body 792. Accessory 788 is grounded to vehicle body 792 via ground wire 793, and accessory 789 is grounded to vehicle body 792 via bracket 794 that secures the housing to vehicle body 792.

[0594] In other words, the high-current system components 788 and 789 are grounded to the vehicle body, thereby reducing the impact of noise and thus reducing ground voltage fluctuations or the noise of the alternator 791.

[0595] Figure 43 This is a schematic configuration diagram used to illustrate a modified example of the vehicle circuitry according to this embodiment.

[0596] like Figure 43As shown, the backbone trunk section 800 includes a laying material 810 in which power lines 811 and ground lines 813, formed of, for example, aluminum round rod conductors or stranded wires, are twisted together. The laying material 810 is connected to a battery 790 and an alternator 791, which serve as power sources. Multiple control boxes 801, 803, and 805 are distributed throughout the backbone trunk section 800.

[0597] Because the power line 811 and the ground line 813 are twisted together, the noise cancellation effect can be improved, thus enhancing the resistance to external noise.

[0598] Figure 44 This is a schematic configuration diagram used to illustrate a modified example of the vehicle circuitry according to this embodiment.

[0599] like Figure 44 As shown, the backbone section 820, which has a power line 828 and a ground line 829, is connected to the battery 790 and the alternator 791, which serve as power sources. Multiple control boxes 821, 823, 825, and 827 are distributed within the backbone section 820. Accessories 833 are each connected to control boxes 821, 823, and 825.

[0600] The annular ferrite 830 is connected to the backbone section 820 between control boxes 821, 823, 825 and 827.

[0601] Therefore, it is possible to prevent noise from the downstream side of each control box 821, 823, 825 and 827 from spreading through the backbone section 820.

[0602] Figure 45 This is a schematic perspective view showing the layout and connection state of the various parts of the vehicle circuitry in a modified example according to this embodiment, with the circuitry laid out on the vehicle body.

[0603] Figure 45 The vehicle electrical system 900 shown includes the following basic components: a trunk line (backbone trunk line 915) which is laid in the body 901 and has a power line 931, a ground line 933 and a communication line 935; branch lines (instrument panel branch line sub-harness 965, front door branch line sub-harness 963, rear door branch line sub-harness 977 and luggage compartment branch line sub-harness 979) which are connected to electrical components at various parts of the body; and a plurality of control boxes (supply-side control box 951, branch control box 953, intermediate control box 961 and control boxes 955, 957, 959 and 966) which are arranged in a manner that spreads along the trunk line and have control units for distributing the power supplied to the trunk line from the power line 931 and the signals from the communication line 935 to the branch lines connected to the trunk line.

[0604] The backbone wiring section 915 of the vehicle electrical system 900 is generally divided into the instrument panel backbone wiring section 911, the floor backbone wiring section 913 and the engine compartment backbone wiring section 919.

[0605] The instrument panel backbone section 911 is arranged linearly in the left-right direction along the surface of the front bulkhead 950, and is substantially parallel to the reinforcing section (not shown) at a position above it. The instrument panel backbone section 911 can be fixed to the reinforcing section.

[0606] The floor backbone trunk line 913 is configured to extend along the interior floor of the vehicle in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle body 901 at approximately the center in the left-right direction, and the tip of an upright portion 917 extending vertically along the surface of the front bulkhead 950 is connected to a junction box 920 installed in a through hole in the front bulkhead 950. The tip of an upright portion 918 branching off from the floor backbone trunk line 913 is connected to the middle portion of the instrument panel backbone trunk line 911.

[0607] The engine compartment backbone trunk line 919 is connected to the floor backbone trunk line 913 via a junction box 920 installed in a through hole in the front bulkhead 950.

[0608] The engine compartment backbone wiring section 919, located in the engine compartment 41 of the vehicle, is connected to the main battery 5, which serves as the main power source, via a branch sub-wiring harness 975 connected to the supply-side control box 951. The supply-side control box 951 and control box 959 are connected to branch sub-wiring harnesses 971 and 973.

[0609] Here, the front bulkhead 950 is positioned at the boundary between the engine compartment 41 and the vehicle interior 43, and it is required to completely seal the portion through which electrical connection components pass. In other words, the front bulkhead 950 is required to isolate vibrations from the engine compartment 41, reduce vibrations and noise from the suspension, and block heat, noise, and odors to maintain the comfort of the vehicle interior 43. Furthermore, the penetration points of electrical connection components must be adequately considered to prevent impairment of these functions.

[0610] like Figure 46 As shown, junction box 920 includes: relay terminals 923, 925 and 927 that penetrate housing 921; and sealing ring 922 that seals the gap with front panel 950.

[0611] The power lines 931, ground lines 933, and communication lines 935 at the upright section 917 of the floor backbone trunk section 913 are connected to the power lines 931, ground lines 933, and communication lines 935 at the engine compartment backbone trunk section 919 by bolting them at both ends of the relay terminals 923, 925, and 927 with bolts 941 and by connecting them with connectors 943.

[0612] Therefore, the floor backbone trunk section 913 and the engine compartment backbone trunk section 919 are interconnected in a watertight manner via a junction box 920 installed in a through hole in the front bulkhead 950.

[0613] <Second Embodiment>

[0614] Figure 47 This is a schematic plan view showing the layout and connection state of the various parts of the vehicle electrical circuit system as it is installed on the vehicle body according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0615] Figure 47 The vehicle electrical system 1000 shown includes the following basic components: a backbone trunk line 1015, which is a trunk line laid in the body 1001 of a so-called plug-in hybrid electric vehicle; branch lines (front door branch line sub-harness 1063, rear door branch line sub-harness 1065, etc.), which connect to electrical components at various parts of the body; multiple control boxes (supply-side control box 1051, branch control box 1053, intermediate control box 1057, and control boxes 1055 and 1059), which are arranged in a distributed manner along the trunk line, and each control box has a control unit that distributes the power supplied to the trunk line from the power line and the signals from the communication line to the branch lines connected to the trunk line; and a high-voltage cable 1300, which is located at the lower part of the body to connect the high-voltage battery pack 1110 to the power control unit 1220.

[0616] High-voltage battery pack 1110 transmits high-voltage power from high-voltage battery 1130 to high-voltage cable 1300 via high-voltage J / B 1140. Power transmitted from high-voltage cable 1300 to power control unit 1220 is then transmitted to electric generator and motor 1210 via DC / DC converter 1230.

[0617] The floor backbone section 1013 and the instrument panel backbone section 1011 of the backbone section 1015 are connected to the high voltage J / B1140 via a DC / DC converter 1120.

[0618] The power cable connected to the supply-side control box 1051 is connected to the main battery 1005 via fuse 1020. The main battery 1005 is also connected to the DC / DC converter 1230 of the power control unit 1220 via fuse 1022.

[0619] In the vehicle circuit 1000, DC / DC converter 1230 and DC / DC converter 1120 are respectively located at the front and rear of the vehicle, thus enabling power redundancy.

[0620] Therefore, the power from the high-voltage battery pack 1110 can be stepped down in the DC / DC converter 1120 and supplied as a secondary power source to the backbone trunk section 1015.

[0621] In other words, fuses 1020 and 1022 are located at the ends of the backbone section 1015 and disconnect the circuit when a short circuit occurs at the front and rear, thereby enabling a continuous (backup) power supply from one of the DC / DC converters 1230 and 1120.

[0622] Therefore, according to the above-mentioned vehicle circuits 10, 900 and 1000, by simplifying the structure of the electrical connections between various electrical components and the power supply on the vehicle, as well as between electrical components, especially the configuration of the trunk section, it is possible to easily add new wires and achieve miniaturization and weight reduction.

[0623] <Third Embodiment>

[0624] <Configuration Examples of the Main Section>

[0625] Figure 48 The figure illustrates a configuration example of the main parts of an on-board device including the vehicle circuitry of the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0626] Figure 48 The vehicle circuit diagram shown serves as a transmission line, required to supply power from a main power source such as the vehicle battery to accessories in various parts of the vehicle body, i.e., various electrical components, or to facilitate the exchange of signals between electrical components. In other words, the function of the vehicle circuit diagram in the third embodiment is the same as that of a conventional wiring harness; however, the structure of the vehicle circuit diagram differs significantly from that of a conventional wiring harness.

[0627] Figure 48 The illustrated vehicle-mounted equipment is positioned inside the vehicle near the front bulkhead 2016, which divides the vehicle body into an engine compartment 2011 and the vehicle interior (passenger compartment) 2013. (As shown) Figure 48 As shown, a reinforcing section (not shown) is provided on the dashboard section located slightly behind the front bulkhead 2016, extending in the left-right direction of the vehicle body. The main components of the vehicle electrical system are located near the reinforcing section. The vehicle electrical system extending in the left-right direction of the vehicle body can be fixed to the reinforcing section, fixed to the front bulkhead 2016, or fixed to a special fixing tool.

[0628] Figure 48The illustrated vehicle electrical system includes multiple backbone bus sections 2021, 2022, and 2023, and multiple backbone control boxes 2031, 2032, and 2033. Each backbone bus section 2021, 2022, and 2023 includes wires such as power lines, ground lines, and communication lines. The power lines and ground lines of each backbone bus section are configured to use strips of metal material (e.g., copper or aluminum) with a flat cross-sectional shape, and these metal materials are stacked in the thickness direction while being electrically insulated from each other. This allows for the flow of large currents and relatively facilitates bending processing in the thickness direction.

[0629] The main line sections 2021 and 2022 are arranged linearly in the left-right direction along the surface of the front bulkhead 2016, thus being substantially parallel to the reinforcing section above it. The main line section 2023 is basically located at the center of the vehicle body in the left-right direction and extends linearly in the up-down direction along the surface of the front bulkhead 2016. The main line section 2023 bends at approximately 90 degrees in the thickness direction near the boundary between the front bulkhead 2016 and the vehicle interior floor, and is configured to extend along the vehicle interior floor in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body.

[0630] The backbone control box 2032 is located in the general center of the vehicle body in the left-right direction, the backbone control box 2031 is located near the left end in the left-right direction, and the backbone control box 2033 is located near the right end in the left-right direction.

[0631] The left end of the backbone trunk section 2021 is connected to the right end of the backbone control box 2031, and the right end of the backbone trunk section 2021 is connected to the left end of the backbone control box 2032. The left end of the backbone trunk section 2022 is connected to the right end of the backbone control box 2032, and the right end of the backbone trunk section 2022 is connected to the left end of the backbone control box 2033. The tip of the backbone trunk section 2023 is connected to the lower end of the backbone control box 2032.

[0632] In other words, the backbone trunk sections 2021 to 2023 and the backbone control boxes 2031 to 2033 are formed into a T-shaped configuration, such as... Figure 48 As shown. The internal circuits of the backbone trunk sections 2021 to 2023 are in a state where they can be electrically connected to each other via the backbone control box 2032.

[0633] <Details of the backbone control box>

[0634] The backbone control box 2031, located on the left side of the vehicle body, includes a main power connection 2031a, a trunk line connection 2031b, and a branch line connection 2031c. For example... Figure 48As shown, the main power connection 2031a of the backbone control box 2031 is connected to the main power cable 2041, the trunk connection 2031b is connected to the left end of the backbone trunk section 2021, and the branch connection 2031c is connected to multiple branch sub-wire harnesses 2042.

[0635] Although Figure 48 Although not shown, the power lines, ground lines, and communication lines of both systems are located inside the backbone section 2021. The main power connection section 2031a is provided with two connection terminals for the power line and ground line connected to the main power cable 2041.

[0636] For example, in the power lines of the two systems included in the backbone section 2021, one power line serves as a path for supplying power from the main power source. The other power line serves as a path for supplying backup power, for example, in the event of an anomaly.

[0637] A circuit board for interconnecting the power supply system, ground system, and communication system of each circuit between the main power cable 2041, the backbone trunk section 2021, and the branch sub-wiring harness 2042 is installed in the backbone control box 2031.

[0638] Regarding the main power cable 2041, the terminals connected to the leading ends of the power line and the ground line are connected to the terminals of the main power connection part 2031a and are fixed by using bolts and nuts, thereby enabling the circuits to be interconnected.

[0639] Regarding the branch sub-harness 2042, the connectors located at each end of the branch sub-harness 2042 can be connected to and detached from the branch connection portion 2031c, thereby allowing the circuits to be interconnected as needed. The branch sub-harness 2042 is configured to include all or part of power lines, ground lines, and communication lines. Figure 48 In the backbone control box 2031 shown, the branch connection part 2031c is provided with six connectors, so it can be connected to a maximum of six branch sub-harnesses 2042.

[0640] like Figure 48 As shown, the backbone trunk sections 2021 to 2023 and the backbone control boxes 2031 to 2033 are combined, and various branch sub-wire harnesses 2042 to 2044 are connected to the backbone control boxes 2031 to 2033, thus enabling the deployment of various transmission lines using a simple structure similar to the backbone.

[0641] For example, additional options or various electrical components installed on the vehicle can be handled simply by adding or changing the branch sub-harnesses 2042 to 2044 connected to any of the backbone control boxes 2031 to 2033, thus without needing to change the structure of the vehicle's main wiring. In this embodiment, it is assumed that the branch sub-harnesses 2042 to 2044 are connected to the backbone control boxes 2031 to 2033, while other branch sub-harnesses (not shown) can be connected to, for example, appropriate relay points on the backbone trunk sections 2021 to 2023.

[0642] In actual vehicle-mounted devices, for example, such as Figure 48 As shown, the Electronic Control Unit (ECU) 2051 installed in the vehicle can be connected to the backbone control box 2031 or other electrical components via branch sub-harness 2042. The backbone control box 2032 can be connected to the ECUs 2051, 2052, and 2053 or other electrical components via branch sub-harness 2043. The backbone control box 2033 can be connected to various electrical components via branch sub-harness 2044. Each ECU 2051, 2052, and 2053 can control various electrical components in the vehicle via the communication lines of branch sub-harnesses 2042, 2043, and 2044, and the backbone control boxes 2031 to 2033.

[0643] On the other hand, requirements Figure 48 The vehicle electrical system shown not only connects electrical components within the vehicle interior 2013 but also connects the main power supply and electrical components within the engine compartment 2011. The front bulkhead 2016 is located at the boundary between the engine compartment 2011 and the vehicle interior 2013, and it is required to properly seal the portions through which electrical connection components penetrate the front bulkhead 2016. In other words, the front bulkhead is required to isolate vibrations from the engine compartment, reduce vibrations or noise from the suspension, and block heat, noise, and odors to maintain vehicle interior comfort. Furthermore, the portions through which electrical connection components penetrate must be adequately considered to prevent damage to these functions.

[0644] However, for example, if a component with a large cross-sectional area, such as the backbone section 2021 to 2023, which is difficult to bend in any direction other than a specific direction, is configured to pass through the front bulkhead 2016, it is very difficult to seal the through section, and therefore it is also difficult to carry out the installation of the vehicle's electrical circuits.

[0645] exist Figure 48 In the vehicle circuit shown, the backbone trunk lines 2021 to 2023 and the backbone control boxes 2031 to 2033, which are the main components, are all located in the space on the side of the vehicle interior 2013, thus easily solving the problem of the through part in the front bulkhead 2016.

[0646] In fact, such as Figure 48 As shown, the main power cable 2041, connected to the left end of the backbone control box 2031, is routed through a through hole 2016a in the front bulkhead 2016, and the main power circuit in the engine compartment 2011 is connected to the power circuit of the backbone control box 2031 via the main power cable 2041. Therefore, power from the autonomous power source can be supplied to the backbone control box 2031 in the future. Because a flexible material can be used for the main power cable 2041, its cross-sectional shape can be circular, and its cross-sectional area can be small, which helps to seal the through hole 2016a, thereby preventing reduced operability during installation.

[0647] When various electrical components in the engine compartment 2011 are connected to the vehicle electrical system in the vehicle interior 2013, for example, a portion of the branch sub-harness 2042 connected to the backbone control box 2031 is configured to pass through the front bulkhead 2016, or a portion of the branch sub-harness 2044 connected to the backbone control box 2033 is configured to pass through the front bulkhead 2016, thereby enabling the desired electrical connection path. In this case, since the branch sub-harnesses 2042 and 2044 have small cross-sectional areas and are easily bent, the portions of the branch sub-harnesses passing through the front bulkhead 2016 can be easily sealed.

[0648] Since the main power supply is located on the engine compartment 2011 side, the power or ground wire can be omitted from the branch sub-harness located at the through section of the front bulkhead 2016, and only the communication line can be installed therein. Such a special branch sub-harness can be configured as a communication trunk line independent of the branch sub-harnesses 2042 to 2044 branching from the main trunk line.

[0649] The vehicle-mounted device in this embodiment has the following features: Figure 48 The basic configuration shown above can be further improved by making various changes and additions to the configuration or operation as described below.

[0650] <Characteristic Technologies of Electricity Supply>

[0651] <System Configuration Example>

[0652] Figure 49 The system shown includes a backbone bus BB_LM to ensure the main path for power supply and communication. Multiple control boxes CB(1) and CB(2) are connected in the middle of the backbone bus BB_LM. The main battery MB, which serves as the main power source for the vehicle side, and the alternator ALT are connected to the upstream side of the backbone bus BB_LM.

[0653] Control boxes CB(1) and CB(2) are each provided with a connection part Cnx for connecting to various accessory AEs. Each accessory AE corresponds to an electrical component such as a load installed on a vehicle or an electronic control unit (ECU).

[0654] exist Figure 49 In the configuration shown, accessory AE(1) is connected to a single connector in the connection section Cnx of the control box CB(1) via branch sub-harness LS(1). Accessory AE(2) is connected to a single connector in the connection section Cnx of the control box CB(1) via branch sub-harness LS(2). Similarly, accessories AE(3) and AE(4) are connected to single connectors in the connection section Cnx of the control box CB(2) via their respective branch sub-harnesses LS(3) and LS(4).

[0655] Each control box CB has multiple connectors at its connection point Cnx. Figure 49 (Not shown in the image), and multiple connectors have the same shape, size, and configuration. Therefore, when each branch sub-harness LS is connected to the connector of the connection section Cnx, any one of the multiple connectors can be selected.

[0656] Therefore, the power supplied from the main power supply to the backbone BB_LM is branched at the control box CB(1) or CB(2), and the power is supplied to each accessory AE via the branch sub-harness LS connected to the branch location.

[0657] <Trunk Line Configuration Example>

[0658] Figure 50 Figures (a) and (b) illustrate configuration examples of the backbone BB_LM. Figure 50 In the example shown in (a), the backbone BB_LM includes power lines L1 and L2 for two independent systems, a ground line L3, and communication lines L4 and L5 formed by two wires. The power lines L1 and L2, the ground line L3, and the communication lines L4 and L5 are configured to extend parallel to each other. In environments where individual components (AEs) can be connected to the ground line of the power supply along other paths such as the vehicle body floor, the ground line L3 can be omitted from the components of the backbone BB_LM.

[0659] exist Figure 50In the example shown in (a), both power lines L1 and L2 of the two systems are configured to handle a general-purpose DC power supply voltage of 12V. The control box CB has the function of selecting one of the power lines L1 and L2 of the two systems and supplying power to the downstream side. Therefore, for example, in the event that only one of the power lines L1 and L2 is disconnected in the middle of the backbone BB_LM, each control box CB can be continuously powered by using the remaining normal path.

[0660] exist Figure 50 In the example shown in (b), the backbone BB_LM includes power lines L1 and L2B for two independent systems, a ground line L3, and communication lines L4 and L5 formed by two wires. One of the power lines L1 and L2B, L1, is configured to handle a 12V DC power supply voltage. The other power line L2B is configured to handle a 48V DC power supply voltage.

[0661] Therefore, in Figure 50 In the configuration shown in (b), the control box CB can select one of two types of power supply voltages and, under the control of the control box, supply the selected voltage to the accessory AE. Thus, an appropriate power supply voltage can be automatically selected based on, for example, the characteristics or conditions of the load. For instance, when the load has high power consumption, a large power current flows through it, and the voltage drop in the supply path increases; therefore, selecting a higher power supply voltage can prevent increased power loss. Figure 50 In the example shown in (b), if only one of the power lines L1 and L2B is disconnected, each control box CB can be continuously powered by using the remaining normal path.

[0662] When using two types of power supply voltages, the voltage on the main power supply side can be boosted from 12V to 48V to supply the backbone BB_LM, and the 12V power supplied from the backbone BB_LM can be boosted in either control box CB to generate 48V power.

[0663] <Circuit Configuration Examples of Power Supply Systems>

[0664] Figure 51 The diagram illustrates a specific configuration example of the power system within the control box CB. In this configuration, the microcomputer (CPU) CBa, the switching circuit CBb, and the bridging circuit CBc are located within the control box CB.

[0665] The microcomputer CBa is configured using a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), and therefore its configuration and operation can be reconfigured by rewriting instructions (reprogramming) according to an external control program. The FPGA configuration under the current specification is only an example.

[0666] The microcomputer CBa is connected to the designated diagnostic tool DT via the communication line Lx. In practice, there are situations where the diagnostic tool DT is only connected when adjustments or repairs are performed at the vehicle factory, and there are also situations where the diagnostic tool DT is routinely installed on the vehicle to automatically resolve problems by performing diagnostics at any time.

[0667] As the communication line Lx, communication lines L4 and L5 of the backbone BB_LM can be used without modification, or a dedicated communication line can be fabricated separately. If the intended administrator issues instructions using the diagnostic tool DT or executes a predetermined recovery procedure, the diagnostic tool DT can rewrite the control programs related to the configuration and operation of the microcomputer CBa.

[0668] The switching circuit CBb includes multiple switching elements that distribute power from the DC power supply voltage (+B) supplied from the power lines L1 or L2 of the backbone BB_LM to multiple output systems, and switch the power on and off of each output system. Figure 51 In the example shown, six power field-effect transistors (FETs) are used as switching elements. Each switching element is configured to turn on and off according to the output from the microcomputer CBa. Regarding the operation of the switching elements, in addition to simple on / off switching, output power regulation can be provided, for example, by using pulse width control (PWM) to enable on / off switching. Furthermore, although the +B load, ACC load, and IG load must be connected separately according to the conventional structure, since the power FETs can be reprogrammed to have the same function as ACC and IG relays, the +B load, ACC load, and IG load can be connected to any part of the circuit.

[0669] The bridging circuit CBc includes multiple switching elements serving as a bridge, used to interconnect multiple output systems located on the output side of the switching circuit CBb. Each switching element is also configured to be switched on and off according to the output from the microcomputer CBa.

[0670] The branch connection includes a switching circuit CBb, a bridging circuit CBc, and a connection part Cnx. The branch connection is connected to the accessory AE via a branch line LS and is controlled by a microcomputer CBa.

[0671] <Configuration Example of Power Control Function>

[0672] Figure 52 The diagram illustrates a specific example of the power control function CBx of the control box CB. In this example, the control box CB has representative power control functions. Figure 52The six types of functions shown are CBx0, CBx1, CBx2, CBx3, CBx4, and CBx5. These functions are implemented by processing using a microcomputer CBa.

[0673] Function CBx0: The microcomputer CBa detects various conditions and, based on the detected conditions, supplies power from all systems in multiple systems supplied by the backbone BB_LM to the downstream side, i.e., the accessory AE side, or selectively supplies power from only one system to the downstream side. For example, in the backbone BB_LM having Figure 50 In the configuration shown in (a), if a power line disconnection is detected in either power line L1 or L2, only the power supplied from the normal path in power lines L1 and L2 will be supplied to the output path. For example, in the backbone BB_LM with Figure 50 In the configuration shown in (b), based on specifications, it is preferable to select and output power at a higher voltage (48V) supplied from the power line L2B, or preferably to select and output to an output system connected to an accessory AE with a large actual load current.

[0674] Function CBx1: The microcomputer CBa identifies the type of power to be supplied to each branch. Specifically, regarding the power type, there is a continuously supplied "+B" power, an "ACC" power supplied in conjunction with the on / off state of the accessory switch, and an "IG" power supplied in conjunction with the on / off state of the ignition switch. The microcomputer CBa identifies the type of accessory AE connected to and controlled by it, and selectively supplies the more suitable type of power ("+B," "ACC," and "IG") to the corresponding branch. The type of power supplied to each branch can be predetermined based on program-defined constant data, and information such as the ID can be obtained from the actually connected accessory AE, enabling the identification of the power type.

[0675] Function CBx2: The microcomputer CBa monitors the on / off states of the accessory switch and ignition switch on the vehicle side, and controls the power supply to and from each type of output system. In other words, power is supplied only when the accessory switch is on, through the ignition switch circuit CBb, to the branch of the output system for which "ACC: Accessory" is designated as the power type; power is not supplied when the accessory switch is off. Similarly, power is supplied only when the ignition switch is on, through the ignition switch circuit CBb, to the branch of the output system for which "IG: Switch" is designated as the power type; power is not supplied when the ignition switch is off.

[0676] Function CBx3: The microcomputer CBa changes (reprograms) the type of power supplied to each branch line, "+B, ACC, and IG," in response to instructions from the diagnostic tool DT. For example, the type of power output from component "FET4" in the switching circuit CBb is normally specified as "IG." When a change is required, the type of power output from component "FET4" is changed to "ACC" by reprogramming the microcomputer CBa. This change affects the control conditions of the control signals assigned to component "FET4" by the microcomputer CBa. In other words, when "IG" is specified as the power type, the control signals for component "FET4" change according to the state of the ignition switch. When "ACC" is specified as the power type, the control signals for component "FET4" change according to the state of the accessory switch.

[0677] Function CBx4: The microcomputer CBa protects the corresponding wires connected to each branch on the outside. Specifically, it measures the actual current flowing through each output system, calculates the heat based on the current, and interrupts the corresponding system of the switching circuit CBb before the temperature rises above a predetermined level.

[0678] Function CBx5: The microcomputer CBa detects faults in each switching circuit CBb and automatically avoids faults to maintain functionality. Specifically, adjacent output systems are interconnected using a bridging circuit CBc, and power is continuously supplied to the output side by temporarily using a path that does not pass through the faulty component.

[0679] The new classifications of electrical types, "+BA," "IGP," and "IGR," can replace the previous "+B," "ACC," and "IG." "+BA" indicates electrical power to the system when the user approaches the vehicle. "IGP" indicates electrical power to the system when the ignition switch is turned on and the engine is fully loaded. "IGR" indicates electrical power to the system when the wheels are turning. Even with the new electrical type classifications, the same functionality can be achieved by acquiring the necessary control information. Figure 52 The functions CBx1 and CBx2 are shown.

[0680] <Technical Characteristics of Communication>

[0681] Uninterrupted communication technology

[0682] Figure 53 The diagram illustrates a configuration example of a communication system installed on a vehicle. Figure 53 The configuration shown uses a communication trunk BB_LC formed in a ring. Although Figure 53Not shown, but the communication trunk BB_LC is integrally formed with the wiring harness for power supply or the backbone trunk including specially configured power lines.

[0683] exist Figure 53 In the configuration shown, multiple control boxes CB(1) to CB(4) are distributed and connected in the middle of the communication trunk line BB_LC. Accessories AE(1) to AE(4) are connected to control boxes CB(1) to CB(4) via branch sub-harnesses LS(1) to LS(4) respectively, and are under the control of control boxes CB(1) to CB(4). Accessories AE correspond to electrical components such as various loads or electronic control units (ECUs) installed in the vehicle.

[0684] Each of the multiple control boxes CB(1) to CB(4) has the function of supplying power from the trunk branch to the accessory AE via the branch sub-harness LS, or branching the communication path via the communication trunk BB_LC. Each branch sub-harness LS includes a power line and a communication line. The branch sub-harness LS may include a ground wire.

[0685] In having Figure 53 In the system configuration shown, it is assumed that communication takes place between accessory AE(1) and accessory AE(2). In this case, the path between control box CB(1) and control box CB(2) is used in the ring-shaped communication trunk BB_LC, thus enabling communication along the shortest path.

[0686] Furthermore, a portion of the communication trunk BB_LC can be disconnected. However, even if the communication trunk BB_LC is disconnected on the path between control box CB(1) and control box CB(2), other paths can be used because the entire path is looped. In other words, the communication path from control box CB(1) via control box CB(4) and control box CB(3) to control box CB(2) can be used, thus not interrupting the communication path between accessory AE(1) and accessory AE(2).

[0687] like Figure 53 The loop-shaped communication trunk BB_LC shown can also be applied to communication systems with straight paths, such as... Figure 49 The backbone BB_LM shown can be used without modification. For example, two trunks, such as a communication trunk BB_LC for the forward path and a communication trunk BB_LC for the reverse path, can be arranged in parallel on a straight backbone BB_LM, and the ends of the communication trunks BB_LC for the forward and reverse paths can be connected to each other, thus enabling the configuration of a ring-shaped, i.e., a closed-loop communication path.

[0688] <Safety Technology for Connection Parts>

[0689] <Protection using physical methods>

[0690] Figure 55 Figures (a), (b), and (c) illustrate specific examples of techniques used for the physical protection of the connection points CBx of each control box CB. Figure 55 The circuit boards CBd shown in (a), 55(b) and 55(c) are installed in each control box CB.

[0691] Each control box CB(1) to CB(4) has a connection section Cnx, which includes multiple connectors for connection to various accessories AE via branch sub-harnesses LS, etc. The connectors are configured to be compatible with predetermined standards such as Universal Serial Bus (USB), and the multiple connectors are arranged side by side to connect to multiple devices.

[0692] However, in a specific control box CB, due to differences in vehicle model, class, destination, and the options selected by the vehicle purchaser, the connectors of the connecting part Cnx may not be used, or some connectors of the connecting part Cnx may not be used. If the configuration of each control box CB is changed to reflect the differences in vehicle model, class, destination, etc., the configuration of each control box CB cannot be used interchangeably, thus increasing the number of control boxes CB and consequently increasing manufacturing costs.

[0693] On the other hand, if there is an empty connector in the connection part Cnx that is not connected to the branch sub-wiring harness LS or the like in the state specified when the vehicle leaves the factory, the user or a third party can freely and illegally connect a specific device to the empty connector. Figure 55 The physical configurations shown in (a), 55(b) and 55(c) prevent users from engaging in such illegal activities.

[0694] exist Figure 55 In the configuration shown in (a), it is assumed that none of the six connectors of the connection section Cnx are in use. Therefore, by closing the openings of all connectors using the locking physical cover Kc1, it is impossible to freely use any connector of the connection section Cnx.

[0695] The locking cover Kc1 is a cover that covers the outside of the connector Cnx and can be properly secured to the connector Cnx. The locking cover Kc1 has a locking mechanism built into it and a structure that prevents the locking cover Kc1 from being unlocked unless operated with a pre-prepared physical unlocking key Kk. Therefore, a person without the unlocking key Kk cannot illegally connect any device to the connector of the connector Cnx.

[0696] exist Figure 55In the configuration shown in (b), it is assumed that the predetermined branch sub-harnesses LS, etc., are connected to certain connectors in the connection section Cnx, and the remaining connectors are empty. Therefore, in the connection section Cnx, the openings of the empty connectors are individually closed by using a locking physical cover Kc2, making it impossible to freely use these connectors.

[0697] The locked cover Kc2 is fixed to one of six connectors having the same shape and size as the connecting part Cnx, thus structurally securing it to the connector with the corresponding single opening closed. Similar to the locked cover Kc1, the locked cover Kc2 has a built-in locking mechanism and a fixed structure that prevents it from being unlocked unless operated using a pre-prepared physical unlocking key Kk.

[0698] exist Figure 55 In the configuration shown in (c), it is assumed that: predetermined branch sub-harnesses LS, etc., are connected to certain connectors in the connection section Cnx, and the remaining connectors are empty. Therefore, in the connection section Cnx, the openings of the empty connectors are individually sealed by using a physical sealing element Ks, making it impossible to freely use the connectors. A configuration may exist in which the openings of multiple connectors are collectively covered by a single sealing element Ks.

[0699] For example, the sealing element Ks for sealing is formed into an elongated strip shape and is made of resin. For example, a specific pattern is formed on the surface of the sealing element Ks by printing, thereby clearly distinguishing it from other commercially available sealing elements. The two ends of the sealing element Ks in the longitudinal direction are fixed to the connecting part Cnx by adhesive or the like.

[0700] In cases where a user or other individual illegally uses a connector whose opening is covered by a sealing element Ks, rendering it unusable, the sealing element Ks may be damaged or the adhesive portion may be torn, thus physically leaving traces of the seal being removed. In other words, after illegal use, designated managers or other personnel can easily confirm the illegal use of the connector.

[0701] Control-based protection

[0702] Figure 56 The diagram illustrates a specific example of a technology based on the connection point Cnx of each control box CB for electrical control and protection. In other words, a microcomputer (not shown) mounted on the circuit board CBd performs... Figure 56 The control shown protects the unused connectors of the Cnx connection from unauthorized use.

[0703] The microcomputer on the CBd circuit board uses diagnostic tools to identify whether each connector in the Cnx connection section, managed by the microcomputer, is in use, based on pre-written programs and constant data. The microcomputer monitors the voltage at multiple terminals in each connector and is therefore able to actually detect whether a particular device is connected to the connector.

[0704] In step S11, the microcomputer monitors whether each communication port connector is connected for each connector. If a new connection to each connector is detected in step S12, the process proceeds to step S13. If the connector with the detected new connection is registered as an unused connector, the process proceeds to the next step S14, and illegal connection detection is performed.

[0705] Through the processing in step S14, for example, data indicating unauthorized use is stored in non-volatile memory, or an abnormal display regarding unauthorized use is shown on a display such as an instrument unit. Communication using the corresponding connector can be automatically interrupted, thereby preventing unauthorized use of the device.

[0706] <Technologies for interconnecting communication networks and communication equipment based on various standards>

[0707] Figure 54 The diagram illustrates a configuration example of a communication system installed on a vehicle. Figure 54 The communication system shown includes the communication trunk BB_LC. Although Figure 54 Not shown, but the communication trunk BB_LC is integrally formed with the wiring harness used for power supply or the backbone trunk including specially configured power lines. The backbone trunk is provided with a ground wire as needed.

[0708] exist Figure 54 In the configuration shown, multiple control boxes CB(1), CB(2), and CB(3) are connected to a common communication trunk line BB_LC, distributed across multiple areas AR1, AR2, and AR3. Specific examples of areas AR1, AR2, and AR3 may include the engine room, instrument panel area, floor area, and luggage compartment.

[0709] Each control box CB(1) to CB(3) has the function of dividing the power supply to the trunk line to supply power to the accessory AE, or branching the communication line path to ensure the connection path. Figure 54 In the configuration shown, each of the multiple control boxes CB(1), CB(2) and CB(3) includes a gateway GW.

[0710] Figure 54Each of the multiple gateways GW(1) to GW(3) shown basically has the function of interconnecting networks or devices based on different specifications such as communication protocols.

[0711] For example, in vehicle systems, various communication devices or networks based on different standards and specifications can be used for different areas and vehicle models. These include Controller Area Network (CAN), CAN with Flexible Data Rate (CAN_FD), Clock Extension Peripheral Interface (CXPI), Ethernet, and optical communication networks. The gateway (GW) absorbs these differences, allowing devices with different specifications to communicate with each other.

[0712] exist Figure 54 In the configuration shown, the gateway GW is set in the control box CB of each area, so even if the communication standards of each area are different, the communication lines can be connected to each other by using the gateway GW.

[0713] <Technologies for achieving high-speed communication and gateway technologies>

[0714] Figure 57 The diagram illustrates a configuration example of a communication system consisting of a control box CB with optical communication and gateway functions, and a backbone line BB_LM. Figure 58 The diagram illustrates a configuration example of supplying power to a communication system.

[0715] Moreover, in Figure 57 In the system shown, the control box CB is connected to the backbone trunk line BB_LM. Figure 57 The backbone line BB_LM shown includes power lines L1 and L2, ground line L3, and communication lines L4B and L5B. Figure 57 In this context, GND represents the earth, or the land.

[0716] exist Figure 57 In the example shown, power line L1 is connected to the vehicle's main battery (BATT), and power line L2 is connected to the auxiliary battery. Communication lines L4B and L5B are formed from optical fibers to handle optical communication. Using optical communication in the trunk enables high-speed communication at various points throughout the vehicle. Furthermore, it is less susceptible to noise interference.

[0717] Figure 57The control box CB shown handles various communication functions in addition to optical communication, including Ethernet (registered trademark), CAN_FD, and CXPI. Specifically, eight communication port connectors CP1 to CP8 are located within the control box CB. Communication port connectors CP1 and CP2 are Ethernet (registered trademark) communication ports only, while communication port connectors CP3 to CP8 are selectable communication ports for specifications such as CAN_FD and CXPI. Each of the eight communication port connectors CP1 to CP8 has specifications corresponding to metal communication cables. The cables have metal specifications, thus reducing component costs.

[0718] like Figure 57 As shown, the control box CB includes a power supply circuit CB01, a gateway control circuit CB02, PHY circuits CB03, CB04, CB05 and CB06, network switches CB07 and CB08, transceivers CB09 and CB10, and a switching circuit CB11.

[0719] The power supply circuit CB01 is connected to power lines L1 and L2 and ground line L3, and generates, for example, a "+5V" power supply voltage required in various circuits such as the gateway control circuit CB02 based on the power supplied from the backbone line BB_LM.

[0720] The gateway control circuit CB02 is formed by a microcomputer and implements the functions of a gateway (GW). In other words, it performs protocol conversion between communications based on different standards or performs signal switching control. It also generates control signals for switching in the switching circuit CB11.

[0721] PHY circuits CB03, CB04, CB05, and CB06 provide the physical layer interface functionality in Ethernet (registered trademark). PHY circuits CB03 and CB04 are respectively capable of converting between optical and electrical signals or between digital and analog signals to correspond to two wavelengths of optical signals. PHY circuits CB05 and CB06 are respectively capable of converting between digital and analog signals to correspond to signals based on the Ethernet (registered trademark) metal standard.

[0722] Network switches CB07 and CB08 are switching circuits corresponding to the Ethernet (registered trademark) standard and have the function of determining whether to transmit to each connected device by considering the destination of the received data.

[0723] exist Figure 57In the configuration shown, network switch CB07 controls the chassis and transmission systems of the vehicle system. Network switch CB08 controls the body system, entertainment system, driver assistance system, and advanced driver assistance system of the vehicle system. Network switch CB07 is connected between PHY circuits CB03 and CB04 and gateway control circuit CB02. Network switch CB08 is connected between PHY circuits CB03 to CB06 and gateway control circuit CB02.

[0724] Transceivers CB09 and CB10 are connected between the gateway control circuit CB02 and the switching circuit CB11. Transceiver CB09 is capable of transmitting and receiving signals corresponding to the CAN_FD standard. Transceiver CB10 is capable of transmitting and receiving signals corresponding to the CXPI standard.

[0725] The switching circuit CB11 has a switching function that allows CAN_FD (using two communication lines) and CXPI (using a single communication line) to be used by common communication port connectors CP3 to CP8. Specifically, the switching circuit CB11 has 12 switching elements for switching between signals input to each communication port connector CP3 to CP8. The switching elements are turned on and off based on control signals output from the gateway control circuit CB02, and therefore, communication port connectors CP3 to CP8 can use signals suitable for either CAN_FD or CXPI.

[0726] For example, when an accessory AE requiring high communication speeds, such as a camera or various sensors, is connected to and controlled by the control box CB, the specifications required for high-speed communication can be met by using, for example, communication port connectors CP1 or CP2. When connecting an accessory AE that performs relatively low-speed communication, the necessary minimum communication functionality can be ensured by using communication port connectors CP3 to CP8.

[0727] Figure 58 The diagram illustrates an example of a circuit configuration that supplies power to the communication port connectors CP1 through CP8. Figure 58 In the configuration shown, terminals CBz1 and CBz2, located in the control box CB, are connected to the main power supply. Specifically, terminal CBz1 is connected to the positive terminal of the main battery MB via a fuse FL built into the main battery MB. Terminal CBz2 of the control box CB is connected to the negative terminal of the main battery MB. Terminals CBz1 and CBz2 are respectively connected to the power line L1 and ground line L3 of the backbone line BB_LM. The power line L2 of the backbone line BB_LM is connected to the positive terminal of the auxiliary battery (not shown).

[0728] The power supply circuit CB01a, which supplies power to the various communication port connectors CP1 through CP8 of the eight systems, is built into the control box CB. The power supply circuit CB01a includes switching circuits SW01 and SW02 for each system associated with the communication port connector, as well as diodes D1 and D2.

[0729] Switching circuits SW01 and SW02 are configured as follows: In this circuit, a switching element, whose on / off state can be controlled by the control circuit of control box CB, is connected in series with a fuse. Diodes D1 and D2 have the function of preventing reverse current.

[0730] Therefore, if only switch circuit SW01 is turned on among switch circuits SW01 and SW02, power from the main power supply can be supplied to each communication port connector CP1 to CP8. If only switch circuit SW02 is turned on among switch circuits SW01 and SW02, power from the auxiliary power supply can be supplied to each communication port connector CP1 to CP8.

[0731] Special optical communication technology

[0732] <Combination of multiple communication paths>

[0733] Figure 101 The diagram illustrates a configuration example of the communication system of an in-vehicle system. Figure 101 The illustrated vehicle system comprises five control boxes CB(1) to CB(5). Three control boxes CB(1), CB(2), and CB(3) are interconnected via a communication trunk BB_LC configured as a ring. A peer-to-peer (P2P) communication line LPP1 connects control box CB(1) and control box CB(4), and a P2P communication line LPP2 connects control box CB(1) and control box CB(5). Optical communication is used for all communication trunks BB_LC and communication lines LPP1 and LPP2.

[0734] In optical communication, each relay point on the communication path corresponding to the control box CB performs a process of converting the received optical signal into an electrical signal, converting the electrical signal back into an optical signal, and then sending the optical signal to the transmission path. Therefore, optical signal delay occurs at each relay point. When the communication path of the entire system is configured in a ring, the optical signal delay increases due to the increased number of connected relay points.

[0735] On the other hand, due to Figure 101In the illustrated vehicle-mounted system, a ring-shaped communication trunk BB_LC and P2P communication lines LPP1 and LPP2 are combined to reduce signal delay and enable high-speed communication. In other words, because there are three nodes on the ring-shaped communication trunk BB_LC, the delay occurring on the ring can be minimized.

[0736] Therefore, for example, in the case of optical communication between control box CB(3) and control box CB(4), the signal delay is reduced compared to the case where the entire communication path is configured as a ring, and thus high-speed communication is possible.

[0737] Because a ring-shaped communication trunk BB_LC is used, redundancy in the communication path exists, thus improving communication reliability. In other words, even if a break occurs at a single point on the communication trunk BB_LC, communication can still be maintained using other unbroken paths. The trunk can be formed by transmission paths for optical communication, and the branches can be formed by transmission paths for electrical signals, and these can be combined with each other.

[0738] <Simultaneous use of optical signals with multiple wavelengths>

[0739] Figure 102 The diagram shows... Figure 101 The diagram shows a configuration example of the cross-section of the communication trunk BB_LC in the vehicular system. In other words, as shown... Figure 102 As shown, Figure 101 The communication trunk line BB_LC shown includes fiber optic cable FBC1 forming the forward path and fiber optic cable FBC2 forming the reverse path. Fiber optic cables FBC1 and FBC2 each have two embedded optical fibers FB11 and FB12.

[0740] In the current embodiment, both a specific wavelength λ1 and a wavelength λ2 different from wavelength λ1 are used for the optical signal to be processed. For example... Figure 102 As shown, one optical fiber cable FBC1 transmits an optical signal with wavelength λ1, and another optical fiber cable FBC2 transmits an optical signal with wavelength λ2.

[0741] Therefore, by using optical signals corresponding to two wavelengths on the communication trunk BB_LC, both communication paths can be ensured together, thus providing redundancy. This improves communication reliability.

[0742] As a concrete example, optical signals corresponding to two different wavelengths are used based on importance or priority. For instance, signals used to control important loads on a vehicle are assigned an optical signal with wavelength λ1, while signals used to control loads of lower importance are assigned an optical signal corresponding to wavelength λ2. In the event of a communication interruption using the optical signal with wavelength λ1 assigned to the important load, the information to be transmitted is automatically transmitted using the optical signal with wavelength λ2. Therefore, a continuous communication path can be ensured. This control can be performed using a microcomputer on each control box (CB).

[0743] <Use of Wavelength Division Multiplexing / Time Division Multiplexing (TDM)>

[0744] Figure 103 The figure illustrates a configuration example of optical signals undergoing wavelength division multiplexing and time division multiplexing. Figure 104 The figure shows a configuration example of a communication system for a vehicle-mounted system performing optical wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) communication.

[0745] For example, when using an optical signal with wavelength λ1 and an optical signal with wavelength λ2 together, the wavelengths of the two optical signals are different from each other, so they can be used as follows: Figure 103 Wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) uses a single optical fiber to transmit signals.

[0746] Therefore, it can be omitted Figure 102 Either of the two optical fibers FB11 and FB12 is shown. Higher priority signals can be assigned to optical signals with wavelength λ1, and lower priority signals can be assigned to optical signals with wavelength λ2. The optical signals are time-division multiplexed, thus enabling transmission over a single communication line. Figure 103 The optical signals ch1, ch2 and ch3 of multiple channels are transmitted sequentially as shown.

[0747] exist Figure 104 In the vehicle system shown, the three control boxes CB(1), CB(2) and CB(3) are interconnected via the communication trunk CB_LC. Figure 104 The communication trunk BB_LC shown is formed by optical fibers for the forward path and optical fibers for the reverse path, and is configured as a ring.

[0748] The optical signal, after wavelength division multiplexing and time division multiplexing, is transmitted to a single optical fiber of the communication trunk BB_LC, such as Figure 103 As shown, it is capable of optical communication between control box CB(1) and control box CB(3).

[0749] Figure 104The control boxes CB(1) to CB(3) shown include receiver-side circuitry and transmitter-side circuitry, respectively. The receiver-side circuitry includes splitter 2057-1, optical / electrical conversion units (O / E) 2057-2 and 2057-3, branch units (DROP) 2057-4 and 2057-5, and time-division multiplexer 2057-6. The transmitter-side circuitry includes time-division multiplexer 2057-7, insertion units (ADD) 2057-8 and 2057-9, and electrical / optical conversion units (E / O) 2057-10 and 2057-11.

[0750] In other words, in control boxes CB(1) to CB(3), the optical signal is incident from a single optical fiber of the communication trunk BB_LC to the receiving-side circuit. The optical signal is split into two optical signals with wavelengths λ1 and λ2 respectively in splitter 2057-1. The split optical signal with wavelength λ1 is converted into an electrical signal by optical / electrical conversion unit 2057-2, and then branched into two systems in branching unit 2057-4. The electrical signal of one branch is input to time demultiplexer 2057-6, and the other electrical signal is input to transmitting-side circuit.

[0751] Similarly, the separated optical signal with wavelength λ2 is converted into an electrical signal by the optical-to-electrical conversion unit 2057-3, and then branched into two systems in the branching unit 2057-5. The electrical signal from one branch is input to the time-demultiplexer 2057-6, and the other electrical signal is input to the transmitting side circuit. The time-demultiplexer 2057-6 splits the input electrical signals output from the branching units 2057-4 and 2057-5 each time, thereby generating signals for multiple channels (ch1, ch2, and ch3).

[0752] For example, control box CB(1) sends the received signal from the first channel output from time demultiplexer 2057-6 to accessory AE11 (ADAS ECU). Control box CB(2) can use the received signal from the second channel output from time demultiplexer 2057-6. Control box CB(3) sends the received signal from the third channel output from time demultiplexer 2057-6 to accessory AE31 (rear monitor).

[0753] In the transmitting side circuit of the control box CB(1), the signal for accessory AE12 (rider) is input to time division multiplexer 2057-7 as a high-priority signal using the channel (ch1) assigned to the control box CB, and the signal for accessory AE13 (DVD player) is input to time division multiplexer 2057-7 as a low-priority signal. Time division multiplexer 2057-7 assigns the input signals of the two systems to the corresponding time points of the channel, thereby generating time-division multiplexed electrical signals. The high-priority signal and the low-priority signal are input from time division multiplexer 2057-7 to insertion units 2057-8 and 2057-9, respectively.

[0754] Insertion unit 2057-8 generates a signal for each channel for high-priority signals by combining the received signal with the output of time-division multiplexer 2057-7. Insertion unit 2057-9 generates a signal for each channel for low-priority signals by combining the received signal with the output of time-division multiplexer 2057-7.

[0755] The output signal from insertion unit 2057-8 is converted into an optical signal with wavelength λ1 by electro-optical conversion unit 2057-10. The output signal from insertion unit 2057-9 is converted into an optical signal with wavelength λ2 by electro-optical conversion unit 2057-11. The optical signal with wavelength λ1 output from electro-optical conversion unit 2057-10 and the optical signal with wavelength λ2 output from electro-optical conversion unit 2057-11 are simultaneously fed into a single shared optical fiber of the communication trunk BB_LC and transmitted as wavelength division multiplexed optical signals.

[0756] Similarly, in the transmit-side circuit of control box CB(2), the signal for accessory AE21 (camera) is input to time-division multiplexer 2057-7 as a high-priority signal using the channel (ch2) allocated to control box CB, and the signal for accessory AE22 (camera) is input to time-division multiplexer 2057-7 as a low-priority signal. In the transmit-side circuit of control box CB(3), the signal for accessory AE32 (camera) is input to time-division multiplexer 2057-7 as a high-priority signal using the channel (ch3) allocated to control box CB.

[0757] In any case, Figure 104 In the communication system of the vehicle-mounted system shown, through, as Figure 103 The single optical fiber used in the communication trunk BB_LC shown can transmit optical signals that have undergone wavelength division multiplexing and time division multiplexing.

[0758] exist Figure 104The illustrated vehicle-mounted system uses two wavelengths, λ1 and λ2, and performs signal processing separately for each wavelength. The difference between the wavelengths is correlated with the difference in priority. Therefore, in the event of a failure in communication using either wavelength λ1 or λ2, for example, switching control can be implemented to transmit the high-priority signal using the normal communication line. This allows the communication path to be secured using only a single optical fiber.

[0759] <Other Features and Technologies>

[0760] <Techniques for reducing the number of components in a wiring harness>

[0761] Figure 59 This is an exploded view illustrating an example of a wiring harness configuration obtained by combining a printed circuit board with wires.

[0762] The configuration of wiring harnesses can vary depending on vehicle model, class, destination, and options. If the configuration changes, a part number needs to be assigned to each component for each configuration. If the number of configuration types increases, the number of components increases, and therefore the manufacturing process also becomes more complex.

[0763] Therefore, the components of a wire harness are divided into a basic part with an unchanged configuration and an additional part with a changing configuration. For example... Figure 59 In the backbone component 2012-1 shown, the circuit formed on the printed circuit board (PCB) serves as an additional element of the wire harness, the sub-wire harness 2012-2 formed by wires serves as a base element of the wire harness, and the entire wire harness is configured by combining the additional element and the base element.

[0764] Here, the circuitry formed on the printed circuit board is easily configured as an electronic circuit and has, for example, a field-programmable gate array (FPGA) device built into it, allowing the control program to be rewritten and thus enabling easy changes to the circuit configuration. Consequently, hardware common to all components can be used in the backbone component 2012-1, and the increase in the number of components can be prevented.

[0765] <Techniques for handling connections with post-installed or brought-in devices>

[0766] Figure 60 This is a perspective view showing an example of the exterior of a control box with a USB port.

[0767] Figure 60The control box 2013-1 shown is connected to the backbone line 2012-0 and includes multiple standard communication ports 2013-2 connected to predetermined branch harnesses. Specifically, multiple connectors with communication capabilities based on the Universal Serial Bus (USB) standard are provided in the standard communication ports 2013-2. Therefore, various devices can be connected to the backbone line 2012-0 via the control box 2013-1, provided that the device has a standardized communication port. In other words, it facilitates the retrofitting of various devices or the connection of devices brought into the vehicle by the user.

[0768] <Technologies that enable the multifunctionality of control boxes, etc.>

[0769] Figure 61 (a), 61(b) and 61(c) are plan views of three configuration examples of circuit boards built into control boxes, etc.

[0770] The functions that need to be supported in vehicle wiring harnesses vary significantly depending on the vehicle type, class, destination, and options. For example, the number of circuits, current capacity, processing speed, and processing volume handled by each control box on the backbone vary depending on the vehicle class. If all required functions are installed in control boxes for all classes, the minimum cost increases, thus preventing the provision of low-cost vehicles. However, if a control box is manufactured with an optimal configuration for various combinations of vehicle type, class, destination, and options, the number of components increases significantly, thus increasing costs.

[0771] Therefore, as Figure 61 As shown in (a), 61(b) and 61(c), the increase in the number of components is prevented by using common components. Specifically, the necessary circuit functions are achieved by combining three types of standardized circuit boards 2014-1A, 2014-1B and 2014-1C with a microcomputer 2014-2 formed by an FPGA.

[0772] Circuit board 2014-1A is used for Grade A, the highest of the three grades. Circuit board 2014-1B is used for Grade B, the second highest of the three grades. Circuit board 2014-1C is used for Grade C, the lowest of the three grades. The three circuit boards 2014-1A, 2014-1B, and 2014-1C have different sizes (large, medium, and small) and can handle changes in the number of circuits by selecting the substrate. To handle changes in the number of circuits, the number of microcomputers 2014-2 is changed.

[0773] In other words, because the number of circuits to be processed is small in lower-level vehicles, a small-sized circuit board 2014-1C is combined with a single microcomputer 2014-2 to achieve the necessary functions, such as... Figure 61 As shown in (c). Since the number of circuits to be processed is moderate in the case of intermediate-level vehicles, a medium-sized circuit board 2014-1B is combined with two microcomputers 2014-2 to achieve the necessary functions, such as... Figure 61 As shown in (b). Due to the large number of circuits to be processed in high-grade vehicles, a large-size circuit board 2014-1A is combined with three microcomputers 2014-2 to achieve the necessary functions, such as... Figure 61 As shown in (a).

[0774] Each of the 2014-2 microcomputers is an FPGA, and its program is easy to rewrite. Therefore, the programs of each 2014-2 microcomputer were rewritten to handle the differences between various specifications, such as vehicle grades.

[0775] Therefore, in adopting Figure 61 In the configurations shown in (a), 61(b) and 61(c), only one of the three circuit boards 2014-1A, 2014-1B and 2014-1C and a microcomputer 2014-2 need to be manufactured, thus preventing an increase in the number of types of components and an increase in the number of components.

[0776] <Technologies for reducing the number of components such as trunk lines>

[0777] Figure 62 This is a perspective view illustrating an example of the configuration of the connection points of the layout components that form the trunk line.

[0778] For example, in forming such as Figure 48 In the case of large-sized layout components such as the backbone trunk sections 2021, 2022 and 2023 shown, a single layout component can be configured by combining multiple interchangeable components to prevent an increase in the number of component types or components due to differences in specifications such as configuration or shape.

[0779] exist Figure 62 In the configuration example shown, two thin-plate-shaped installation components 2015-1 and 2015-2 are connected to each other by mating their facing surfaces, thus forming a single unit. Specifically, as... Figure 62 As shown, a protrusion 2015-1a is formed on the right end surface of the laying member 2015-1, and a recess 2015-2a, whose shape is complementary to that of the protrusion 2015-1a, is formed on the left end surface of the laying member 2015-2.

[0780] Multiple electrodes 2015-3, respectively connected to the power supply line (+12V), the ground line (GND), and a predetermined signal line, are positioned to be exposed on the right end surface of the mounting component 2015-1. Similarly, although not shown, electrodes capable of contacting the electrodes 2015-3 are also provided on the left end surface of the mounting component 2015-2.

[0781] As described above, the types of pre-standardized layout components 2015-1 and 2015-2, such as the shape of the connection part and the electrode specifications, are selected, and the selected components are combined with each other to enable the configuration of layout components corresponding to various specifications. In this case, the number of types of standardized layout components can be reduced, and the number of components can also be reduced.

[0782] <Techniques for handling changes in connection specifications>

[0783] Figure 63 This is a plan view illustrating an example of the connection between the control box and the branch sub-harness on the main line.

[0784] Figure 63 The control box 2016-1 shown is connected to, for example... Figure 48 The backbone wiring harnesses 2021, 2022, and 2023 are shown. The overall function or specifications of the wiring harness are determined according to the instructions of the user who has ordered the vehicle, and the pre-ordered branch sub-wiring harnesses 2016-2A, 2016-2B, 2016-2C, and 2016-2D are connected to the connection part of the control box 2016-1.

[0785] A microcomputer with easily rewritable programming is installed on the control box 2016-1. When manufacturing such a wiring harness, a continuity checker 2016-3 is prepared to check whether continuity occurs through actual connection between the terminals of branch sub-harnesses 2016-2A, 2016-2B, 2016-2C, and 2016-2D and the terminals of the control box 2016-1. When the program of the microcomputer on the control box 2016-1 is rewritten using a predetermined tool, the program content is rewritten to reflect the actual continuity status in conjunction with the continuity checker 2016-3.

[0786] Therefore, by appropriately rewriting the program to reflect the types of branch sub-harnesses 2016-2A, 2016-2B, 2016-2C, and 2016-2D assembled into control box 2016-1, or the differences between connection positions, the operator can automatically switch between the circuit connection states in the actual control box 2016-1. This improves the productivity of the harnesses.

[0787] <Techniques for handling changes in connection specifications>

[0788] Figure 64This is a plan view illustrating an example of the connection between the control box and the branch sub-harness on the main line.

[0789] Figure 64 The control box 2017-1 shown is connected to, for example... Figure 48 The backbone wiring harnesses 2021, 2022, and 2023 are shown. The overall function or specifications of the wiring harness are determined according to the instructions of the user who has ordered the vehicle, and the pre-ordered branch sub-wiring harnesses 2017-2A, 2017-2B, 2017-2C, and 2017-2D are connected to the connection part of the control box 2017-1.

[0790] Here, branch sub-harnesses 2017-2A, 2017-2B, 2017-2C, and 2017-2D each have communication lines and send pre-assigned unique identification information (ID) to the microcomputer in control box 2017-1, which is the connection destination. The microcomputer recognizes, for example, any one of “ABCD,” “ABDC,” and “ACDB” as a combination of IDs sent from branch sub-harnesses 2017-2A, 2017-2B, 2017-2C, and 2017-2D, which are actually connected to the microcomputer, and therefore automatically selects the mode of software to be applied to the connection destination of each branch.

[0791] Therefore, operators can freely select the respective connection positions of various branch sub-harnesses 2017-2A, 2017-2B, 2017-2C, and 2017-2D, thereby improving productivity. Even if any accessories are installed later, the microcomputer can automatically process the accessories if it has pre-identified them.

[0792] <Techniques for handling changes in connection specifications>

[0793] Figure 65 (a) and 65(b) are plan views illustrating examples of connections between trunk lines and branch sub-harnesses.

[0794] like Figure 65 As shown in (a), when the backbone formed by the trunk line 2018-1 and multiple control boxes 2018-2 and 2018-3 is connected to various accessories via various branch sub-harnesses 2018-4 and 2018-5, the position of the connector for connecting the branch sub-harnesses 2018-4 and 2018-5 can be changed, or the pin arrangement of the connector can be altered.

[0795] For example, in Figure 65In the example shown in (b), it is assumed that either the automatic air conditioner 2018-6A or the manual air conditioner 2018-6B, as accessories, is selectively connected to connector 2018-2b of the control box 2018-2 according to a change in specifications. In this case, the pin arrangement of the connector for the automatic air conditioner 2018-6A is different from that of the connector for the manual air conditioner 2018-6B.

[0796] To address this change, a microcomputer 2018-2a, formed by an FPGA, is installed on control box 2018-2, and a microcomputer 2018-3a, also formed by an FPGA, is installed on control box 2018-3. The microcomputer 2018-2a formed by an FPGA is installed on... Figure 65 (b) The main body or connector of the automatic air conditioner 2018-6A and the manual air conditioner 2018-6B shown.

[0797] The microcomputers 2018-2a and 2018-3a, whose programs are rewritten according to the specifications of each circuit in the connected branch sub-harnesses 2018-4 and 2018-5, appropriately select each connection destination. Figure 65 As shown in (b), a microcomputer located in the branch sub-harness or its connector on the accessory side controls the process to absorb specification differences such as connector pin arrangement differences. Therefore, when each accessory is connected to the control boxes 2018-2 and 2018-3, the accessory side can absorb the connection specifications and can use the specifications of the backbone side in a common manner.

[0798] <Techniques for handling changes in connection specifications>

[0799] Figure 66 This is a perspective view illustrating an example of the connection between the control box and the branch sub-harness on the main line.

[0800] Multiple connectors 2019-1a, 2019-1b, 2019-1c, 2019-1d, 2019-1e, and 2019-1f with the same size or shape are configured in... Figure 66 The control box 2019-1 shown is arranged side by side for connecting various branch lines and accessories. When accessories are connected to the control box 2019-1, select any one of the multiple connectors 2019-1a to 2019-1f and connect the branch sub-harnesses 2019-2A, 2019-2B and 2019-2C respectively.

[0801] Here, during vehicle production, the operator can freely select the connector positions as the connection destinations for each branch sub-harness 2019-2A, 2019-2B, and 2019-2C as needed. The changes in connector positions as connection destinations for branch sub-harnesses 2019-2A, 2019-2B, and 2019-2C are handled by automatically changing the circuit connection states in the control box 2019-1 using a microcomputer formed by an FPGA within the control box 2019-1, which is built into the rewrite program.

[0802] Therefore, operators can freely choose the location of the connectors as the connection destinations for each branch sub-harness 2019-2A, 2019-2B, and 2019-2C, thus improving productivity. The number of parts can be reduced by using common functions.

[0803] <Technologies that use alternating current>

[0804] Figure 67 It is a perspective view showing an example of the arrangement of main lines and multiple branch sub-wiring harnesses laid on the vehicle body.

[0805] Figure 67 The vehicle-mounted system shown includes: a backbone bus 2020-1, which is linearly arranged along the front-rear direction of the vehicle body; and multiple branch sub-harnesses 2020-2A, 2020-2B, and 2020-2C, which are connected to various parts of the backbone bus 2020-1. Each branch sub-harness 2020-2A, 2020-2B, and 2020-2C is connected to a control box located on the backbone bus 2020-1.

[0806] As a characteristic feature, AC power is supplied to the backbone line 2020-1. Specifically, approximately 200V AC voltage is used. Each control box is equipped with a transformer and AC / DC converter, which transforms the AC power and converts it to a predetermined DC voltage before supplying it to the branch sub-harnesses 2020-2A, 2020-2B, and 2020-2C. Figure 67 In the example shown, DC voltages such as 5V, 48V, and 12V are supplied to branch sub-harnesses 2020-2A, 2020-2B, and 2020-2C, respectively.

[0807] As described above, by channeling alternating current through the backbone 2020-1, power losses in the backbone are reduced compared to direct current. The system cost is lowered due to its simple configuration and the ability to convert voltage using inexpensive transformers. Reduced power losses also improve vehicle fuel efficiency.

[0808] <Techniques using multiplexing>

[0809] Figure 68 (a) and 68(b) are block diagrams illustrating multiple control boxes and the communication trunk lines that connect the control boxes to each other.

[0810] exist Figure 68 In the configuration shown in (a), the communication line 2021-3 of the backbone connecting the two control boxes 2021-1 and 2021-2 is formed by a group of multiple wires. In other words, in order to ensure the communication path, the same number of separate communication lines as the number of signals to be transmitted needs to be prepared, so if the number of signals increases, the number of communication lines also increases.

[0811] On the other hand, Figure 68 In the configuration shown in (b), the communication line 2021-3B of the backbone connecting the two control boxes 2021-1B and 2021-2B is formed by only one or two communication lines.

[0812] In other words, in Figure 68 In the configuration shown in (b), because the signals from multiple systems are superimposed on a single communication line using techniques such as Time Division Multiplexing (TDM), the number of communication lines can be significantly reduced as the number of signals to be transmitted increases. Techniques such as Frequency Division Multiplexing (FDM) can be used instead of Time Division Multiplexing (TDM).

[0813] In such Figure 68 (a) shows a situation where the number of communication lines is large, it may be necessary to split the communication lines in the middle of the trunk line. However, by reducing the number of communication lines, it is not necessary to split the communication lines, thus simplifying the configuration. Therefore, the number of circuits and components is reduced.

[0814] Techniques for recovery during anomalies

[0815] Figure 69 This is a circuit diagram illustrating a configuration example of a control box with a recovery function.

[0816] Anomalies such as circuit breaks can occur in the backbone or control box. If such an anomaly occurs, the intended power supply cannot be provided to the branch sub-harnesses or load side, thus halting the operation of various load components. To prevent this, a recovery function is provided.

[0817] exist Figure 69In the configuration shown, the following assumptions are made: Power supplied from the vehicle's main power source 2022-2 is supplied to two loads 2022-3 and 2022-4 via control box 2022-1. If switch 2022-1a is closed, power can be supplied to load 2022-3. If switch 2022-1b is closed, power can be supplied to load 2022-4.

[0818] However, if a fault such as disconnection occurs in the line connected to switch 2022-1b, an abnormal state occurs where power is not supplied to load 2022-4 even when switch 2022-1b is closed. Therefore, assuming load 2022-4 is a load with a fairly high priority, then... Figure 69 In the configuration shown, the backup path 2022-1c is connected in parallel with the path of switch 2022-1b. The backup path 2022-1c is connected to a relay 2022-1d that can be switched on and off via a microcomputer 2022-1e.

[0819] If an anomaly is detected in the power path of switch 2022-1b, microcomputer 2022-1e automatically activates relay 2022-1d to restore power supply to load 2022-4 via backup path 2022-1c. Microcomputer 2022-1e controls the warning display in the vehicle's instrument cluster to indicate the occurrence of a fault. This recovery function improves reliability related to the operation of wiring harnesses and various accessories.

[0820] Near-field wireless communication technology for vehicles

[0821] Figure 70 (a) and (b) are block diagrams illustrating examples of connections between a harness and a load. Figure 71 It is a perspective view showing a specific example of the arrangement and connection of various components on the vehicle body.

[0822] like Figure 70 As shown in (a), when various accessories installed in the vehicle door 2023-3 are connected to the wiring harness 2023-1 inside the vehicle via a wiring harness, the wire harness at the bend where it typically bends with the opening and closing of the door is placed in a cable loop 2023-2, thus providing functions such as wire protection, waterproofing, dustproofing, and sound insulation. However, using a cable loop makes wiring harness installation difficult and also increases component costs.

[0823] Therefore, in Figure 70In the configuration shown in (b), near-field wireless communication units 2023-5 and 2023-6 are used to connect the control box 2023-4 on the backbone inside the vehicle to various accessories located in the vehicle doors 2023-7. Near-field wireless communication units 2023-5 and 2023-6 not only have communication functions but also the function of wirelessly supplying power. Therefore, in use... Figure 70 In the configuration shown in (b), no cable rings are required, and the installation of the fittings is also very simplified.

[0824] This will illustrate more realistic configuration examples on the vehicle. Figure 71 In the configuration shown, the main trunk line 2024-1, the instrument panel trunk line 2024-2, the engine compartment trunk line 2024-3, etc., are laid out as trunk lines at various locations on the vehicle body. Control boxes 2024-41, 2024-42, 2024-43, 2024-44, and 2024-45 are located at various locations on these trunk lines.

[0825] exist Figure 71 In the configuration shown, the steering module 2024-5 and the control box 2024-41 are wirelessly interconnected via near-field communication. The various control boxes and accessories in the doors are also wirelessly interconnected via near-field communication. Accessories located in the luggage compartment, such as sensors 2024-7 and antennas 2024-8, are also wirelessly interconnected with the control box 2024-45 via near-field communication.

[0826] Noise Reduction Techniques

[0827] Figure 72 (a), 72(b) and 72(c) are block diagrams illustrating specific examples of the connection states of trunk lines, control boxes, batteries, etc.

[0828] exist Figure 72 In the configuration example shown in (a), a single main battery 2025-1 and alternator 2025-2 are connected to the vicinity of the end of wiring harness 2025-3 in the same manner as in a conventional vehicle. Various parts of wiring harness 2025-3 are connected to accessories such as electronic control units (ECUs) 2025-4 and 2025-5 and electric motor 2025-6.

[0829] exist Figure 72 In the configuration shown in (a), devices such as alternator 2025-2 or motor 2025-6 are sources of noise, and the electromagnetic noise generated from them may adversely affect electronic control units 2025-4 and 2025-5 located nearby.

[0830] Therefore, to reduce the impact of noise, the following countermeasures are adopted. In other words, multiple batteries are fabricated and distributed along the backbone near the noise source. This allows the batteries to easily absorb the generated noise, preventing noise from seeping into the electronic control units. The noise problem is solved regardless of the connection location of the noise source and noise-sensitive devices along the backbone.

[0831] exist Figure 72 In the configuration example shown in (b), in addition to the main battery 2025-1, the auxiliary batteries 2025-1B and 2025-1C are connected to the backbone of the wiring harness 2025-3 in a distributed manner. Therefore, the noise generated from the motor 2025-6, which is a noise source, is absorbed by the auxiliary batteries 2025-1B and 2025-1C connected nearby.

[0832] The noise-sensitive electronic control units 2025-4 and 2025-5 are located further away from the noise source than the secondary batteries 2025-1B and 2025-1C, and are therefore almost unaffected by noise.

[0833] exist Figure 72 In the configuration example shown in (c), in addition to the main battery 2025-1, six auxiliary batteries 2025-1B, 2025-1C, 2025-1D, 2025-1E, 2025-1F, and 2025-1G are connected to the backbone of wiring harness 2025-3 in a distributed manner. Auxiliary battery 2025-1B is connected to the trunk line 2025-3A between the main battery 2025-1 and the control box 2025-7A. Auxiliary battery 2025-1C is connected to the internal circuitry of the control box 2025-7A.

[0834] Sub-battery 2025-1D is connected to the main line 2025-3B between the two control boxes 2025-7A and 2025-7B. Sub-battery 2025-1E is connected to the internal circuitry of control box 2025-7B. Sub-battery 2025-1F is connected to the main line 2025-3C between the two control boxes 2025-7B and 2025-7C. Sub-battery 2025-1G is connected to the internal circuitry of control box 2025-7C.

[0835] As in Figure 72 In the configuration shown in (c), when multiple auxiliary batteries are connected, each auxiliary battery can be connected to any location. Since each auxiliary battery acts as a noise filter, connecting multiple auxiliary batteries improves the noise absorption performance in the power line.

[0836] Noise Reduction Techniques

[0837] Figure 73(a), 73(b), 73(c), 73(d) and 73(e) are block diagrams illustrating specific examples of the connection states of the trunk line with more than one battery.

[0838] In this technology, the following resistance measures (1), (2) and (3) are adopted.

[0839] (1) Batteries with noise absorption properties are configured to be connected to the backbone at any location. (2) To eliminate the effects of voltage fluctuations or noise, low-impedance wiring materials are used as the wiring materials for the backbone. (3) The configuration of the backbone is universal, and the battery mounting position is changed according to the conditions of each vehicle.

[0840] exist Figure 73 In the configuration shown in (a), control boxes 2026-4A, 2026-4B, 2026-4C, and 2026-4D are connected to the four ends of the backbone 2026-3, respectively. The main battery 2026-1 is connected to the backbone 2026-3 at the location of control box 2026-4A, and the secondary battery 2026-2 is connected to the backbone 2026-3 at the location of control box 2026-4D. Even if the main battery 2026-1 and the secondary battery 2026-2 are connected to the backbone 2026-3 at any of the locations of control boxes 2026-4A, 2026-4B, 2026-4C, and 2026-4D, a universally configured backbone 2026-3 can still be used.

[0841] exist Figure 73 In the configuration shown in (b), only the main battery 2026-1 is connected to the front end of the backbone 2026-3 located at the front of the vehicle via the control box 2026-4A.

[0842] exist Figure 73 In the configuration shown in (c), only the auxiliary battery 2026-2 is connected to the rear end of the backbone 2026-3 located at the rear of the vehicle via the control box 2026-4D.

[0843] exist Figure 73 In the configuration shown in (d), the main battery 2026-1 is connected to the front end of the backbone 2026-3 located at the front of the vehicle via the control box 2026-4A, and the auxiliary battery 2026-2 is connected to the rear end of the backbone 2026-3 located at the rear of the vehicle via the control box 2026-4D.

[0844] exist Figure 73 In the configuration shown in (e), the auxiliary battery 2026-2 is located near the center of the vehicle and is directly connected to the center of the backbone 2026-3.

[0845] Noise Reduction Techniques

[0846] Figure 74 It is a block diagram illustrating a specific example of the connection status of the trunk line and multiple batteries.

[0847] exist Figure 74 In the configuration shown, control boxes 2027-2, 2027-3, 2027-4, and 2027-5 are connected to the four ends of the backbone line 2027-1, respectively. Each of the multiple control boxes 2027-2, 2027-3, 2027-4, and 2027-5 has a small-sized auxiliary battery (secondary battery) built into it. Each auxiliary battery is connected to the power line of the backbone line 2027-1. A main power supply, such as a main battery (not shown), is also connected to the backbone line 2027-1. Therefore, the following (1) to (4) are achieved.

[0848] (1) Multiple batteries can be distributed at various parts of the backbone 2027-1. Therefore, voltage fluctuations can be suppressed when the required voltage in the load is high by supplying current from each battery.

[0849] (2) The multiple batteries installed can be conventionally connected to various parts of the backbone 2027-1 in a distributed manner. Therefore, when regenerative electrical energy is generated on the backbone 2027-1, this energy can be effectively recovered through the multiple batteries at each part. Thus, the recovery rate of regenerative energy is improved.

[0850] (3) Because multiple batteries are provided, backup power can be supplied from multiple auxiliary batteries in the event of an anomaly in the main power source, such as the main battery. Such power backup control can be performed automatically by using microcomputers installed in control boxes 2027-2, 2027-3, 2027-4 and 2027-5.

[0851] (4) Since the battery is located in various areas of the vehicle, even if part of the main line 2027-1 is disconnected due to a vehicle collision, power can be supplied from the battery located near the accessory installation area, thus enabling a safe power supply without interruption.

[0852] Noise Reduction Techniques

[0853] Figure 75 This is a circuit diagram illustrating an example of the power system configuration in an in-vehicle system.

[0854] Figure 75The illustrated setup includes an alternator 2028-1, a main battery 2028-2, a backbone bus 2028-3, a vehicle body ground 2028-4, accessories 2028-5A to 2028-5D, and branch sub-harnesses 2028-6A to 2028-6D. The backbone bus 2028-3 includes a power line 2028-3a and a ground (GND) line 2028-3b. The vehicle body ground 2028-4 is a grounding path using the metal forming the vehicle body.

[0855] exist Figure 75 In the configuration shown, alternator 2028-1 and main battery 2028-2 are connected to the upstream side of backbone line 2028-3. Sections of backbone line 2028-3 are connected to accessories 2028-5A to 2028-5D via branch sub-harnesses 2028-6A to 2028-6D.

[0856] The negative terminals of alternator 2028-1 and main battery 2028-2 are respectively connected to the ground wire 2028-3b of the backbone 2028-3 and the vehicle body ground 2028-4. The ground terminals of the power supplies of accessories 2028-5A and 2028-5B are connected only to the ground wire 2028-3b of the backbone 2028-3 via branch sub-harnesses 2028-6A and 2028-6B. The ground terminals of the power supplies of accessories 2028-5C and 2028-5D are connected only to the vehicle body ground 2028-4 via a dedicated ground wire or housing ground.

[0857] The impedance of the wiring when using the vehicle body ground 2028-4 is very small, for example, about 0.7mΩ. However, the impedance is relatively larger when using the ground wire 2028-3b of the backbone 2028-3.

[0858] Because the ground wire 2028-3b of the backbone line 2028-3 has a relatively large impedance value, ground potential fluctuations may occur due to voltage drops caused by the impedance of the line if a large current flows through it. However, if the vehicle body ground 2028-4 is used, its impedance value is small, so ground potential fluctuations hardly occur.

[0859] exist Figure 75 In the configuration shown, since it is assumed that the power current consumed in parts 2028-5A and 2028-5B is relatively small, their grounding terminals are connected to the ground wire 2028-3b of the backbone line 2028-3. Conversely, since it is assumed that the power current consumed in parts 2028-5C and 2028-5D is relatively large, their grounding terminals are connected to the vehicle body ground 2028-4. This connection method reduces ground potential fluctuations.

[0860] The 2028-1 alternator has built-in switching circuitry such as a DC / DC converter, thus presenting a high possibility of noise generation due to switching. However, as... Figure 75 As shown, the negative terminal of the alternator 2028-1 is connected to the vehicle body ground 2028-4. Therefore, since the impedance of the line is small, the generated noise can be absorbed by using the main battery 2028-2, etc.

[0861] <Technologies for communication between vehicles and external parts of the vehicle>

[0862] Figure 76 (a) is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of an in-vehicle system, and Figure 76 (b) is a perspective view showing an example of the exterior of the same vehicle system.

[0863] Figure 76 (b) The vehicle system shown includes: multiple control boxes 2029-1; a backbone line 2029-4 that connects the control boxes to each other; and multiple branch sub-harnesses 2029-5 that are connected to the backbone line 2029-4 via the control boxes.

[0864] like Figure 76 As shown in (a), accessories 2029-3A and 2029-3B are connected to and controlled by branch sub-harness 2029-5. Specific examples of accessories 2029-3A and 2029-3B include, for example, connections to audio devices or electronic control units (ECUs). Figure 76 As shown in (b), in this example, the data communication module (DCM) 2029-1a is located in one of the multiple control boxes 2029-1.

[0865] In conventional vehicles, each component is connected separately to the DCM (Digital Control Center), enabling various types of components to communicate wirelessly with the outside of the vehicle. Consequently, the connection points for various circuits are concentrated on the DCM. If too many circuits are concentrated, the number of wires handled in the wiring harness increases, leading to larger connectors and thus reduced wiring harness productivity.

[0866] Therefore, as Figure 76 In the configuration shown in (a), the DCM2029-1a is built into a single control box 2029-1, and various accessories 2029-3A and 2029-3B are connected to the common control box 2029-1.

[0867] because Figure 76(a) The control box 2029-1 shown is connected to the backbone line 2029-4, so various types of accessories located in various positions on the vehicle are connected to the backbone line 2029-4, thus enabling easy use of the wireless communication function of DCM2029-1a via the backbone line. Therefore, the number of circuits in the wiring harness can be reduced, thereby reducing the component cost and manufacturing cost of the wiring harness.

[0868] <Technical considerations regarding voltage and current consumption in main lines>

[0869] Figure 77 (a) and 77(b) are longitudinal cross-sectional views illustrating different configuration examples of backbone trunk lines. Figure 78 This is a timing diagram illustrating an example of the relationship between power supply current and power supply voltage under specific power supply control conditions.

[0870] In automotive systems, if the current consumption of components connected to the wiring harness increases, the voltage drop will increase due to the high impedance of the ground wire, and the ground potential will be prone to fluctuation. The grounding terminal of the component may float away from the ground wire. There is a possibility that the power supply voltage to the component will decrease due to the voltage drop in the power supply line.

[0871] Therefore, in this embodiment, two types of power supply voltages, such as +12V and +48V, are configured to be used together in a shared backbone, and the two types of power supply voltages are used as appropriate.

[0872] Figure 77 The backbone line 2030-1 shown in (a) and 77(b) includes two power lines 2030-1a and 2030-1b, a ground line 2030-1c, and a communication line 2030-1d. In this embodiment, it is possible to switch between the power supply voltages supplied to at least one power line 2030-1a and 2030-1b. In other words, when selecting a +12V power supply voltage, as... Figure 77 As shown in (a), a +12V power supply voltage is supplied to power line 2030-1a or 2030-1b. When selecting a +48V power supply voltage, as... Figure 77 As shown in (b), a +48V power supply voltage is supplied to power line 2030-1a or 2030-1b.

[0873] For example, DC power supplied from a main power source such as a main battery is stepped up or down in a control box located on the backbone 2030-1, thus enabling switching between +12V and +48V.

[0874] Control is achieved through a microcomputer within the control box, enabling automatic switching between +12V and +48V. For example, if the microcomputer monitors the load's required current or actual current consumption, it will adjust the voltage based on the current magnitude. Figure 78 The example shown demonstrates automatic switching between voltages.

[0875] In other words, when the load current consumption is high, the voltage supplied by the control box changes from +12V to +48V, thus reducing the impact of the voltage drop supplied to the load.

[0876] <Technical aspects of trunk line configuration>

[0877] Figure 79 (a), 79(b) and 79(c) are longitudinal cross-sectional views illustrating different configuration examples of backbone trunk lines.

[0878] In typical vehicles, +12V is used as the power supply voltage. However, if the load current consumption increases, problems arise such as voltage drops in the wiring harness. If the diameter of the wires in the harness is increased to reduce the voltage drop, the harness becomes too large, thus increasing its weight.

[0879] Therefore, in addition to +12V, the power supply voltage used in the wiring harness is also configured to use +48V.

[0880] exist Figure 79 In the configuration shown in (a), the backbone is formed by four laying materials (wires, busbars, etc.). Two of the four laying materials are used as the +12V power supply line and the ground (GND) line, and the other two remaining laying materials are used as the +48V power supply line and the ground line.

[0881] exist Figure 79 In the configuration shown in (b), the backbone is formed by three fabrication materials. One of the fabrication materials is used as a 12V power supply line, another is used as a ground (GND) line, and the remaining fabrication material is used as a +48V power supply line.

[0882] exist Figure 79 In the configuration shown in (c), the backbone cabling is formed by two cabling materials. One of the cabling materials serves as a common power supply line for +12V or +48V, and the other cabling material serves as the ground (GND) line. In use Figure 79 In the configuration shown in (c), for example, voltage switching between +12V and +48V is performed in the control box on the backbone.

[0883] <Technology for Power Saving Control>

[0884] For example, reducing the power supply to low-priority loads, or temporarily stopping power to low-priority loads, can reduce the overall power consumption of the vehicle, leading to improved power efficiency and smaller battery sizes. However, if such power-saving controls are maintained continuously, users may not be comfortable using low-priority loads.

[0885] Therefore, assume the following scenario: the normal mode is switched to the power-saving mode only when a specific condition occurs, and the aforementioned power-saving control is performed. Here, it is important to define the criteria used to determine whether to switch from the normal mode to the power-saving mode.

[0886] In this embodiment, to determine the switch from normal mode to power-saving mode, past data DA and expected data DB for the next day are prepared. The past data DA is compared with the expected data DB, the power consumption forecast for today is presented to the user, and the vehicle-side control device automatically selects the power-saving mode.

[0887] As a concrete example of past data DA, conditional patterns such as daily, seasonal, and environmental conditions such as weather, temperature, and humidity are considered, and electricity consumption for each conditional pattern is measured and generated as data. This data is then optimized using a learning function.

[0888] Specific examples of expected data databases include predicted car air conditioning usage based on the day's weather forecast, user schedule data recorded on smartphones, and destination information input into car navigation devices. Specific conditional patterns are extracted from specific data, thus enabling the creation of an appropriate expected data database.

[0889] <Technology to prevent battery depletion>

[0890] For example, when a vehicle is parked and not connected to an external power source, most of its components are inactive and consume very little power stored in the battery. However, because certain loads, such as anti-theft devices, consume power even when the vehicle is parked, the battery can run out if the parking status remains for an extended period, preventing the vehicle from starting.

[0891] Therefore, in this embodiment, the vehicle's control device performs special control to prevent battery depletion in advance. In other words, the control device identifies the remaining power capacity in a power source such as the main battery, measures the current flowing out of the battery (either current or dead current), and predicts the number of days remaining until battery depletion occurs based on this information. If the remaining days are short, the battery's power supply is automatically stopped. This can be controlled to reduce the power supply in stages.

[0892] <Technology related to disconnection detection>

[0893] Figure 80 This is a circuit diagram illustrating an example of the power system configuration in an in-vehicle system.

[0894] exist Figure 80 In the vehicle system shown, the alternator 2033-1 and the main battery 2033-2, which serve as the main power source, are connected to the front end of the backbone line 2033-4, and the auxiliary battery 2033-2B is connected to the rear end of the backbone line 2033-4 via the switch 2033-5.

[0895] Multiple control boxes 2033-3A, 2033-3B, and 2033-3C are connected to the middle section of the backbone 2033-4 in a distributed manner. Components of the backbone 2033-4 include power lines and ground lines. The power lines of the backbone 2033-4 are configured not only for power supply but also for communication. In other words, using existing power line communication (PLC) technology, DC power and AC signals for communication are transmitted in a superimposed state on the power lines.

[0896] Therefore, each of the multiple control boxes 2033-3A, 2033-3B and 2033-3C has a built-in PLC communication interface, and thus the multiple control boxes 2033-3A, 2033-3B and 2033-3C can communicate with each other via PLC.

[0897] In this configuration, for example, if the backbone line 2033-4 between the two control boxes 2033-3A and 2033-3B is disconnected, PLC communication between the two control boxes 2033-3A and 2033-3B is not possible. Therefore, control boxes 2033-3A and 2033-3B can recognize the disconnection of the backbone line 2033-4 when PLC communication is not possible. Furthermore, the location where the disconnection occurred can be specified. Each of the multiple control boxes 2033-3A, 2033-3B, and 2033-3C has short-range wireless communication capabilities, enabling communication even when the backbone line 2033-4 is disconnected.

[0898] In the event of the aforementioned disconnection, power restoration control is performed based on the fail-safe function of any one of the detected disconnected control boxes 2033-3A, 2033-3B, and 2033-3C. In other words, if switch 2033-5 is closed, power is supplied to the backbone line 2033-4 from both the main battery 2033-2 and the auxiliary battery 2033-2B. Switch 2033-5 remains closed. Therefore, power is supplied to each circuit from the main battery 2033-2 upstream of the disconnected position, and power is supplied to each circuit from the auxiliary battery 2033-2B downstream of the disconnected position. In the event of a disconnection, PLC communication is stopped, and a communication path between control boxes 2033-3A, 2033-3B, and 2033-3C is ensured by using limited wireless communication.

[0899] <Technology of Shared Communication Systems>

[0900] Figure 81 This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view illustrating an example of a communication cable configuration.

[0901] Multiple standards, such as CAN and CCP1, exist for communication in vehicles. Therefore, due to differences in vehicle specifications, different areas within vehicles, and different vehicle classes, it is possible to combine communication interfaces based on multiple standards. This involves using components, such as communication cables, with different configurations for each standard. Because these configurations differ, components based on multiple standards are not interchangeable.

[0902] Figure 81 The communication cable 2034-1 shown is configured to be used for both CAN-based and CXPI-based communication. The communication cable 2034-1 consists of four wires: a power line 2034-1a, a ground (GND) line 2034-1b, a high-side communication line 2034-1c, and a low-side communication line 2034-1d.

[0903] When communicating based on the CAN standard, both the high-side communication cable 2034-1c and the low-side communication cable 2034-1d are used; when communicating based on the CXPI standard, only the high-side communication cable 2034-1c is used. Therefore, the universally configured communication cable 2034-1 can be used regardless of whether it is connected to a communication interface based on either the CAN or CXPI standard. This universality facilitates the manufacturing of the wiring harness and thus makes it easier to install various accessories later.

[0904] As mentioned above, in Figure 57 The diagram shows the configuration of the switching circuit CB11 used to switch between two types of interface connections based on CAN and CXPI.

[0905] <Generalized Configuration Techniques>

[0906] Figure 82 This is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a communication system in an in-vehicle system.

[0907] For example, various accessories are connected to, such as, branch sub-harnesses. Figure 48 When using control boxes 2031 to 2033 as shown, and when under the control of control boxes 2031 to 2033, it is difficult to use large-sized control boxes, and the number of connectors for connecting branch sub-harnesses may be limited. Therefore, when multiple accessories need to be connected to a single control box, the number of connectors may be insufficient. In other words, the width of the control box is small, so there are situations where multiple connectors cannot be installed within the control box.

[0908] Therefore, in this embodiment, the preparation Figure 82 The module connection connector (JC) 2035-1 shown is similar in construction to a table tap, with its upstream side connected to a single branch sub-harness 2035-5, and its downstream connection portion 2035-1a provided with multiple connectors for connecting multiple devices.

[0909] like Figure 82 As shown, for example, the branch sub-harness 2035-5 of the module connection connector 2035-1 is connected as a branch to the connector of the individual control box 2035-2C. Figure 82 As shown, the module connector 2035-1 includes two PHY circuits, a network switch (switch), a gateway (GW), a processing unit, a CAN-FD interface, a CXPI interface, and a standard function driver.

[0910] exist Figure 82 In the configuration shown, a PHY circuit of the module connector 2035-1 is connected to the camera and sensor system device 2035-7 via communication line 2035-8. Two loads are connected to and controlled by a standard function driver.

[0911] The downstream connection portion 2035-1a of the module connection connector 2035-1 is provided with multiple connectors, thus allowing multiple accessories to be connected to this connection portion as needed. For example, as Figure 82 As shown, a DCM and antenna can be connected, or the load 6 can be connected via an electronic control unit (ECU). Alternatively, the load can be connected via a connector (E connector) with simple communication or output control functions.

[0912] Another module connector 2035-1 can be connected in series to the downstream connector 2035-1a of the module connector 2035-1, thus increasing the number of connectable devices as needed. Details such as... will be described in detail later. Figure 82 The ECU box 2035-3 shown is a component of this type.

[0913] <Technology for integrating optical communication paths into backbone networks>

[0914] As mentioned above Figure 57 As shown, fiber optic cables are used as the two communication lines L4B and L5B of the backbone BB_LM, and therefore the control box CB has optical communication capabilities. Thus, it can be used for communication in high-end vehicles due to the ability to perform high-capacity or high-speed communication via the backbone. Specifically, since a maximum communication speed of approximately 10Gbps can be ensured, it can also be applied to applications requiring the transmission of high-resolution video data without time lag.

[0915] <Technology for processing optical signals in a control box>

[0916] The functions for processing optical signals are installed in the control box. For example, as in... Figure 57 In the vehicle system shown, PHY circuits CB03 and CB04 are integrated into the control box CB, enabling electrical signals to be converted into optical signals to be transmitted, and the received optical signals to be converted into electrical signals for receiving and processing.

[0917] More specifically, such as Figure 104 In the control box CB(1) shown, optical / electric conversion units 2057-2 and 2057-3 and electrical / optical conversion units 2057-10 and 2057-11 are incorporated into the control box, thus enabling the mutual conversion between optical signals and electrical signals.

[0918] <Technical aspects regarding the connection methods of communication system backbones>

[0919] Figure 83 This is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a communication system in an in-vehicle system where communication systems are connected in a ring. Figure 84 This is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a communication system in an in-vehicle system with a star-connected communication system.

[0920] exist Figure 83 In the vehicle system shown, four control boxes 2036-1, 2036-2, 2036-3 and 2036-4 are interconnected via a backbone communication line 2036-5, and this connection is configured as a ring.

[0921] In other words, the signal transmitted from control box 2036-1 reaches the next control box 2036-2 via communication trunk line 2036-5, and the signal relayed inside control box 2036-2 is transmitted from control box 2036-2 to communication trunk line 2036-5, and then to the next control box 2036-3. Similarly, the signal received and relayed by control box 2036-3 is transmitted to communication trunk line 2036-5, and then to the next control box 2036-4. The signal received and relayed by control box 2036-4 is transmitted to communication trunk line 2036-5, and then to the next control box 2036-1. In this manner, the signal on communication trunk line 2036-5 is transmitted sequentially while being relayed along the loop path.

[0922] Therefore, it is possible to achieve the same Figure 53 The illustrated vehicle system has the same communication functions. If the communication trunk line 2036-5 is dualized, even if an anomaly occurs in one communication path, the remaining normal path can be used to ensure communication, thereby improving reliability. Communication speed can be doubled by using both paths simultaneously.

[0923] On the other hand, Figure 84 In the illustrated vehicle system, five control boxes 2037-1, 2037-2, 2037-3, 2037-4, and 2037-5 are connected to communication trunk lines 2037-5a and 2037-5b, and this connection configuration is a star topology. In other words, a single control box 2037-1 is in the center, and the other four control boxes 2037-2 to 2037-5 are connected to control box 2037-1 via independent paths.

[0924] exist Figure 84 In the configuration shown, each communication path is dualized. For example, control box 2037-1 and control box 2037-3 are interconnected via two independent communication trunks 2037-5a and 2037-5b.

[0925] Each of the dual communication paths can be used individually based on differences in communication priority, importance, and security level. Specifically, a high-priority communication path is used for communication related to vehicle movement, while a low-priority communication path is used for other general communication. In the event of a communication failure, one of the dual communication paths can be used as a backup path. Security levels can be categorized, for example, as private and public.

[0926] In the center of the star, the control box 2037-1 selectively determines the destination of the next data packet to be transmitted from among the four control boxes 2037-2 to 2037-5, and determines the communication path along which the data packet is transmitted in the communication path between the two systems.

[0927] When determining the priority of communications in an in-vehicle system, priorities are typically assigned to each component in advance, and information processed by, for example, the engine ECU is considered high-priority. However, in reality, there are many situations where low-priority information is processed by the engine ECU.

[0928] Therefore, an ID indicating importance is assigned to each piece of information, the importance of the information is identified based on the ID, and the communication path is automatically selected. In other words, information with high importance is transmitted along communication trunk 2037-5a in the dualized communication trunk of the backbone, and information with low importance is transmitted along its communication trunk 2037-5b.

[0929] <Technology for using wireless communication in vehicle systems>

[0930] Figure 85 Figures (a), (b), and (c) illustrate the communication connection status between devices under different conditions, where... Figure 85 (a) is a 3D diagram, and Figure 85 (b) and 85(c) are block diagrams.

[0931] For example, in the communication line contained Figure 85 In the case of the backbone line 2038-1 shown in (a), wired communication is possible between multiple control boxes 2038-2 and 2038-3 connected to the backbone line 2038-1. However, the backbone line 2038-1 may be damaged during a vehicle collision or other event, and the communication line may therefore be disconnected.

[0932] Therefore, to provide redundancy in the communication path, short-range wireless communication functionality is installed in each control box 2038-2 and 2038-3. Therefore, in Figure 85 In the configuration shown in (a), even if the communication line between control boxes 2038-2 and 2038-3 is disconnected, a communication path between multiple control boxes 2038-2 and 2038-3 can be ensured via a wireless communication line. At locations where the connection is not made, a communication path between the control boxes is ensured via the communication line of the backbone line 2038-1.

[0933] like Figure 85 As shown in (b), even if the communication line between control boxes 2038-4 and 2038-5 is disconnected, and the communication line between control boxes 2038-5 and 2038-6 is also disconnected, a communication path can still be ensured by using wireless communication. Therefore, as Figure 85As shown in (c), communication is possible between control boxes 2038-4 and 2038-5, between control boxes 2038-5 and 2038-6, and between control boxes 2038-4 and 2038-6. Therefore, the reliability of the communication path can be ensured.

[0934] <Techniques for reducing the diameter of the bony trunk line>

[0935] Figure 86 This is a circuit diagram illustrating an example of the power system configuration in an in-vehicle system.

[0936] exist Figure 86 In the vehicle system shown, the alternator (alternator: ALT) 2039-1 is connected to one end of the backbone 2039-3 (e.g., the front side of the vehicle body), and the main battery 2039-2 is connected to the other end of the backbone 2039-3 (e.g., the rear side of the vehicle body).

[0937] Loads 2039-4A, 2039-4B, and 2039-4C are connected to various parts of the middle section of the backbone 2039-3 via predetermined branch sub-harnesses. Figure 86 In the diagram, the voltage of the backbone line 2039-3 at each connection point of loads 2039-4A, 2039-4B, and 2039-4C is represented by V1, V2, and V3.

[0938] Typically, the DC output voltage of the alternator 2039-1 is higher than the voltage between the terminals of the main battery 2039-2. Therefore, as Figure 86 As shown, the relationship "V1 > V2 > V3" is satisfied. Here, we assume the following: No effect is placed on the main battery 2039-2, and load currents i1, i2, and i3 flow through loads 2039-4A, 2039-4B, and 2039-4C, respectively. In this case, as... Figure 86 As shown, the output current I of the alternator 2039-1 flows to the right through the backbone line 2039-3, and the current is shunt at the connection points of each load. Therefore, as Figure 86 As shown, currents “I”, “I-i1”, and “I-i1-i2” flow at various locations on the backbone line 2039-3. A voltage drop caused by the current occurs on the backbone line 2039-3, thus satisfying the relationship “V1>V2>V3”. Therefore, the effect of the voltage drop increases at locations far from the alternator 2039-1 and the load 2039-4C. Therefore, the backbone line 2039-3 needs to be thicker to reduce the impedance value. When using a standard wiring harness to route the power lines, the voltage drop can be reduced by routing the power lines that branch into multiple wires at the root of the power source to independent loads, but this increases the number of wires.

[0939] However, in Figure 86 In the configuration shown, since the main battery 2039-2 is connected to the right end of the backbone 2039-3, current can flow from the main battery 2039-2 through the load 2039-4C. In this case, because the distance between the main battery 2039-2 and the load 2039-4C is short, power can be supplied from the main battery 2039-2 to the load 2039-4C without causing a large voltage drop. At least some of the power required by the load 2039-4C is supplied from the main battery 2039-2 side, thus reducing the current I flowing from the alternator 2039-1 to the right through the backbone 2039-3. Therefore, the voltage drop occurring at various locations on the backbone 2039-3 can be reduced, and thus the diameter of the backbone 2039-3 can be reduced.

[0940] Even when power is supplied to a load requiring high current from both the alternator 2039-1 and the main battery 2039-2, the current from the alternator 2039-1 and the main battery 2039-2 flows through different parts, preventing current from concentrating at the same location on the backbone 2039-3. As a result, the maximum rated current flowing through each part of the backbone 2039-3 is reduced, and therefore the diameter of the busbars and other components of the backbone 2039-3 can be reduced.

[0941] <Technical aspects regarding the arrangement of multiple loads>

[0942] Figure 87 This is a circuit diagram illustrating an example of the power system configuration in an in-vehicle system.

[0943] exist Figure 87 In the vehicle system shown, the backbone line 2040-3 is laid out in a straight line from the engine compartment (engine room) area 2040-2 of the vehicle body to the interior area 2040-1. The backbone line 2040-3 is connected to the alternator (ALT) 2040-4, which serves as the main power source, and the power source 2040-5 formed by the main battery.

[0944] Various types of loads 2040-6A, 2040-6B, 2040-6C and 2040-6D on the vehicle are connected to various parts of the backbone 2040-3 via predetermined branch sub-harnesses.

[0945] In this example, load 2040-6A consumes high power. Load 2040-6B consumes low power, such as an ECU, switch, sensor, or lighting device. Load 2040-6C consumes medium power, such as a lamp or an electric motor located in the body system. Load 2040-6D consumes high power, such as an electric motor located in the chassis system.

[0946] like Figure 87 As shown, in this configuration, the low-power load 2040-6B is connected closer to the power supply 2040-5, and the high-power load 2040-6D is connected further away from the power supply 2040-5. Connecting the loads based on this positional relationship reduces the voltage drop at the end of the backbone line 2040-3.

[0947] In other words, such as Figure 87 As shown, if the currents flowing through loads 2040-6A, 2040-6D, 2040-6C, and 2040-6B are represented by i1, i2, i3, and i4 respectively, then the relationship "i2>i3>i4" is established. For example... Figure 87 As shown, if the voltage drops on the backbone line 2040-3 at the corresponding intervals of loads 2040-6D, 2040-6C, 2040-6B and power supply are represented by ΔV2, ΔV3 and ΔV4 respectively, then the relationship "ΔV2 > ΔV3 > ΔV4" is established.

[0948] <Technology for preventing unauthorized device connections>

[0949] In situations where common connection ports used for connecting various devices, such as USB-based connection ports, are not necessarily present in the aforementioned control box CB, unauthorized devices may connect to unused empty ports. For example, a third party could potentially compromise the vehicle and connect unauthorized devices to empty ports without the vehicle's user's knowledge.

[0950] Therefore, a function is provided to prevent intruders from connecting unauthorized devices to the unused port. Specifically, an intrusion sensor is installed on the vehicle and takes action such that, upon detecting an intrusion, the unauthorized device is prevented from operating under the control of a microcomputer located in a control box (CB, etc.). In other words, the microcomputer controls the automatic interruption of power and communication lines corresponding to the unused port.

[0951] A microcomputer can identify whether a port is in use or not by monitoring the current flowing through each port, for example. Whenever the vehicle's ignition switch is turned on, the connection to each port is checked, thus enabling the identification of whether a port is in use.

[0952] <Technology regarding power backup and fuses>

[0953] Figure 88 This is a circuit diagram illustrating an example configuration of a backup power supply circuit.

[0954] Figure 88The backup power circuit 2041-1 shown is located in the control box CB and can be used to supply power to most types of accessories. For example... Figure 88 As shown, the circuit includes a main power line 2041-2, a secondary power line 2041-3, two switching elements 2041-5, two diodes 2041-6, a power output section 2041-7, and a ground line 2041-9. The power output section 2041-7 is connected to a portion of the connector 2041-8 of the control box CB, which is provided for connecting predetermined branch sub-wiring harnesses.

[0955] Connector 2041-8 has four terminals 2041-8a, 2041-8b, 2041-8c, and 2041-8d. Terminals 2041-8a and 2041-8d are connected to the ground (GND) line and power line of the power output section 2041-7, respectively. Terminals 2041-8b and 2041-8c are connected to two communication lines. The dimensions of terminals 2041-8a, 2041-8b, 2041-8c, and 2041-8d are assumed to be 1.5, 0.5, 0.5, and 1.5, respectively.

[0956] DC power from the vehicle's main battery, etc., is supplied via the backbone to the main power line 2041-2 of the backup power circuit 2041-1. DC power from a predetermined auxiliary battery, etc., is supplied via the backbone to the auxiliary power line 2041-3. Power from the high-voltage battery pack used to drive the vehicle can be stepped down by a DC / DC converter, thereby supplying it as auxiliary power to at least one of the auxiliary power line and the main power line of the backbone.

[0957] A control signal 2041-4 for controlling the on and off of the two switching elements 2041-5 is fed from a microcomputer (not shown) located in the control box CB. The microcomputer appropriately controls the control signal 2041-4 and is therefore able to perform the functions described in (1), (2) and (3) below.

[0958] (1) Electronic fuse function: Monitors the load current and automatically disconnects the power path when an excessive current exceeding a predetermined level is detected. Reconnects the power path when the system returns to normal.

[0959] (2) Automatic switching function between main power supply and auxiliary power supply: For example, during normal operation, power is supplied to the load only from the main power supply line 2041-2. Upon detection of a fault in the main power supply line 2041-2, automatic switching occurs, allowing power to be supplied to the load from the auxiliary power supply line 2041-3. In other words, the auxiliary power supply line 2041-3 serves as a backup power supply path. When connecting loads with relatively high power consumption, power is supplied to the same load from both the main power supply line 2041-2 and the auxiliary power supply line 2041-3. This allows for compensation of power capacity shortages on the power supply side.

[0960] (3) Switching function between power types (+B, +BA, IG, etc.): The microcomputer automatically switches between the types of power supplied from the backup power circuit 2041-1 to the power output unit 2041-7. The power types include "+B", "ACC", "IG", "+BA", "IGP", "IGR", etc.

[0961] "+B" indicates power from the system normally supplied by the battery. "ACC" indicates power from the system that supplies power in conjunction with the vehicle's Accessory Control (ACC) switch. "IG" indicates power from the system that supplies power in conjunction with the vehicle's Ignition (IG) switch. "+BA" indicates power from the system that supplies power when a user approaches the vehicle. "IGP" indicates power from the system that supplies power when the ignition switch is on and the engine is fully loaded. "IGR" indicates power from the system that supplies necessary power in emergency situations and supplies power when the wheels are turning.

[0962] The microcomputer processes the data and controls the switching on and off of the two switching elements 2041-5 as needed, thus enabling the supply of various types of power to the load side.

[0963] <Technical aspects of power supply circuits for electrical loads>

[0964] Figure 89 This is a circuit diagram illustrating an example configuration of a power supply circuit for an electrical load.

[0965] Figure 89 The power supply circuit 2042-1 for electrical loads shown is located in each control box CB and can be used to supply power to loads that require, for example, particularly large amounts of power. Figure 89 As shown, the circuit includes a main power line 2042-2, a switching element 2042-5, a power output section 2042-6, and a ground line 2042-3. The power output section 2042-6 is connected to a connector 2042-7 of a control box CB, which is provided for connecting predetermined branch sub-wiring harnesses.

[0966] Connector 2042-7 is provided with two terminals 2042-7a and 2042-7b. Terminals 2042-7a and 2042-7b are connected to the ground (GND) line and power line of the power output section 2042-6, respectively. The dimensions of both terminals 2042-7a and 2042-7b are assumed to be 4.8 mm. For example, the vehicle's blower generator is connected to connector 2042-7 via a predetermined power cable.

[0967] DC power from the vehicle's main battery, etc., is supplied via the backbone to the main power line 2042-2 of the power circuit 2042-1 used for electrical loads. The ground wire 2042-3 is connected to the ground wire of the backbone or the ground of the vehicle body.

[0968] A control signal 2042-4 for controlling the on and off of the switching element 2042-5 is fed from a microcomputer (not shown) located in the control box CB. The microcomputer appropriately controls the control signal 2042-4, thus enabling the aforementioned "electronic fuse function." The time for supplying power to the load can be appropriately controlled. For example, the control time can be determined by reflecting the remaining power capacity of the main battery, or power-saving time control can be performed.

[0969] <Technologies for handling multiple communication protocols>

[0970] Figure 91 This is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a control box capable of switching between multiple communication protocols.

[0971] In vehicle communication systems, various types of communication interfaces can be used, for example, those applicable to standards such as Controller Area Network (CAN) or Clock Extended Peripheral Interface (CXPI). If the communication interfaces of the communicating parties use different standards, their communication specifications or protocols differ, thus preventing them from communicating with each other. Therefore, the communication system needs to be configured to allow communication interfaces based on the same standard to interconnect.

[0972] Therefore, for each communication standard regarding connectors or connecting cables, it is necessary not only to prepare communication interfaces but also to prepare different components, which leads to an increase in the number of components or an increase in manufacturing costs.

[0973] Therefore, in order to cope with protocols based on both CAN and CXPI standards, Figure 91 The control boxes 2044-1 and 2044-2 shown enable component standardization and allow automatic switching between protocols.

[0974] Figure 91The control box 2044-1 shown features four PHY circuits controlled by a microcomputer, two network switches (switch), and a gateway (GW). The gateway supports communication protocols based on the CAN-FD and CXPI standards.

[0975] The CAN-FD standard-based communication interface and the CXPI standard-based communication interface are built into the control box 2044-1, and four independent connectors are located in the connection part 2044-1a of the control box 2044-1. A control box 2044-1 also includes a wireless PHY circuit.

[0976] Each connector in the connection section 2044-1a has a built-in switching circuit 2044-4. The CAN connection section 2044-4a of the switching circuit 2044-4 connects to a communication interface based on the CAN-FD standard and is capable of handling a set of communication signals on the "+" and "-" sides of the CAN-FD standard. The CXPI connection section 2044-4b of the switching circuit 2044-4 connects to a communication interface based on the CXPI standard and is capable of handling a single communication signal based on the CXPI standard. The signal paths of the CAN connection section 2044-4a and the CXPI connection section 2044-4b of the switching circuit 2044-4 are connected to the two terminals of the universal connection section 2044-4c via an internal controllable switch. The switch is controlled by an internal gateway (GW).

[0977] Control boxes 2044-1 and 2044-2 are each provided with a universal connector including four terminals, which include two terminals of the universal connection part 2044-4c, a power line and a ground line.

[0978] In order to cope with signals based on the CAN standard, Figure 91 The illustrated module cable 2044-5 includes four terminals: "GND", "CAN FD-", "CAN FD+", and "Power", as well as four wires. To accommodate signals based on the CXPI standard, module cable 2044-6 includes four terminals: "GND", "CXPI", "GND", and "Power", as well as four wires. In other words, both module cables 2044-5 and 2044-6 have the same number of terminals and the same number of wires, and therefore can be used as universal components.

[0979] The module cable 2044-5 or module cable 2044-6 with a common configuration connects to the universal connector of the control box 2044-1, thus enabling it to handle any communication based on the CAN-FD and CXPI standards.

[0980] In practice, under the control of the microcomputer in control box 2044-1, communication is initially selected based on the CAN-FD standard. Upon connection of a CXPI-based communication device to the other side, an automatic switch to CXPI-based communication occurs. Specifically, when the other side's communication device is connected via module cable 2044-5 or 2044-6, the microcomputer performs a signal scan to identify requests from the other side. If communication cannot be established using the CAN-based protocol, an attempt is made to establish communication by switching to the CXPI-based protocol. At this time, the microcomputer changes the switch of switching circuit 2044-4, thereby switching the signal path in switching circuit 2044-4, thus changing the form of the signal flowing through each terminal of the connector from CXPI form (single signal line) to CAN form (two signal lines).

[0981] <Technical aspects regarding the layout of the control box and ECU>

[0982] Figure 90 This is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of an in-vehicle system.

[0983] exist Figure 90 In the vehicle system shown, two control boxes 2043-1 and 2043-2 are interconnected via a backbone line 2043-4. ECU box 2043-3 is connected to control box 2043-1 via a backbone line 2043-5.

[0984] The electronic control unit (ECU) used to control the air conditioning and several other ECUs is built into the ECU box 2043-3. The control box 2043-1 is located, for example, in the dashboard of a vehicle.

[0985] Connector 2043-7 and ECU 2043-6 are connected to and controlled by control box 2043-2 via two module cables 2043-8, which serve as branch lines. PTC heater 2043-9 is also connected to and controlled by control box 2043-2 via another branch line. Multiple loads 2043-10 are connected to the output terminals of ECU 2043-6. Connector 2043-7 has built-in electronic circuitry and functions to communicate with control box 2043-2 and control the energization of the loads.

[0986] exist Figure 90In the illustrated vehicle system, when the air conditioner, acting as a load 2043-10, is connected to and controlled by the control box 2043-2, the microcomputer in the control box 2043-2 can control the air conditioner, replacing the ECU in the ECU box 2043-3 that controls the air conditioner. In this case, the ECU in the ECU box 2043-3 that controls the air conditioner can be omitted.

[0987] On the other hand, Figure 82 In the illustrated vehicle system, the control box 2035-2A is connected to the ECU box 2035-3 via a communication cable 2035-6 based on the Ethernet (registered trademark) standard. For example, up to 10 independent ECUs can be housed within the ECU box 2035-3. Therefore, multiple ECUs can be clustered together in a single location. Various loads can be connected to and controlled by the individual ECUs within the ECU box 2035-3.

[0988] The ECU box 2035-3 is equipped with a CAN-FD standard-based communication interface, gateway (GW), and PHY circuitry. Therefore, each ECU in the ECU box 2035-3 can communicate with various devices on the vehicle via control boxes 2035-2A to 2035-2E. The ECUs built into the ECU box 2035-3 are mountable and removable, and can be replaced as needed. The mounting position of each ECU can also be changed.

[0989] <Technology for Duplication in Communication Systems>

[0990] Figure 93 (a) and 93(b) are block diagrams illustrating configuration examples of in-vehicle systems.

[0991] In the event of a malfunction or if the communication line is broken due to a vehicle collision, communication between devices cannot be achieved. However, for example, in the case of technologies such as autonomous driving installed in vehicles, high reliability of the communication system is required, and therefore it is necessary to consider ensuring that the communication path is not interrupted.

[0992] Therefore, in Figure 93 In the vehicle systems shown in (a) and 93(b), the power supply path and communication path are configured to be dualized at least at locations of high importance to improve reliability.

[0993] exist Figure 93 In the configuration shown in (a), control box 2046-1 and control box 2046-2 are interconnected via backbone line 2046-4, and control box 2046-1 and control box 2046-3 are interconnected via backbone line 2046-5. Although Figure 93Not shown, but backbone lines 2046-4 and 2046-5 include power lines, ground lines and communication lines respectively, and the power lines and communication lines each have two independent lines.

[0994] Control unit 2046-6 is connected to control box 2046-2 via module cable 2046-7 (as a branch line) and is under the control of control box 2046-2. Control unit 2046-6 is connected to control box 2046-3 via module cable 2046-8 (as a branch line) and is under the control of control box 2046-3. Multiple loads 2046-9 are connected to control unit 2046-6 via branch sub-harness 2046-10 and are under the control of control box 2043-6.

[0995] Each module cable 2046-7 and 2046-8 includes power lines, ground lines, and communication lines for both systems. The ground line can be formed by both systems.

[0996] For example, when commands are sent from control box 2046-1 to control unit 2046-6 via backbone line 2046-4, control box 2046-2, and module cable 2046-7, the communication and power supply paths are dualized. Similarly, when commands are sent from control box 2046-1 to control unit 2046-6 via backbone line 2046-5, control box 2046-3, and module cable 2046-8, the communication and power supply paths are dualized.

[0997] Thus, for example, even if the communication line of one of the backbone trunks 2046-4 and 2046-5 or one of the module cables 2046-7 and 2046-8 is disconnected, the communication path can be ensured by using the communication line of the other system that is not disconnected.

[0998] For example, even if the communication lines of the two systems in the backbone 2046-4 or the module cable 2046-7 are disconnected at the same time, a switch occurs from the control box 2046-1 to the communication path through the backbone 2046-5, control box 2046-3 and module cable 2046-8, thus ensuring the communication path required by the control unit 2046-6.

[0999] On the other hand, Figure 93 In the vehicle system shown in (b), the central control box 2046-12 is connected to multiple control boxes 2046-11, 2046-13, 2046-14, and 2046-15 via independent backbone lines 2046-17, 2046-16, and 2046-18. Control units or loads are connected to each control box via branch lines and are under the control of each control box.

[1000] For example, control unit 2046-21A is connected to central control box 2046-12 via branch line 2046-22, and control unit 2046-21A is connected to control box 2046-14 via branch line 2046-23.

[1001] Therefore, when the control box 2046-12 issues a command to the control unit 2046-21A, any one of the communication paths can be used: the communication path via branch line 2046-22 and the communication path via backbone line 2046-18, control box 2046-14, and branch line 2046-23. In other words, even if one of the multiple paths is broken, the required communication path can be ensured by using the remaining normal communication lines.

[1002] <Technology regarding connection methods for modular devices>

[1003] Figure 94 This is a block diagram illustrating an example configuration of a circuit module installed in the driver's side door panel.

[1004] Figure 94 The circuit module 2047-4 shown is installed in the driver's side door panel and is connected to the control box 2047-1 located on the side of the vehicle body via branch sub-harnesses 2047-2 and 2047-3. Branch sub-harnesses 2047-2 and 2047-3 are arranged as a partition wall that runs through the connection between the vehicle body and the driver's side door.

[1005] The communication line of branch sub-harness 2047-2 is connected to a standard communication interface (CXPI, etc.), and the communication line of branch sub-harness 2047-3 is connected to an Ethernet-based (registered trademark) communication interface.

[1006] Circuit module 2047-4 not only includes module connection connector 2047-8, but also multiple electronic control units (ECUs) 2047-10 and 2047-11 as accessories with standard interfaces, as well as a side television 2047-9. It also includes an antenna 2047-5, a speaker 2047-6, a sensor 2047-7, a universal communication connector 2047-12, etc.

[1007] The Module Connector 2047-8 incorporates three standard communication interfaces based on the CXPI standard and a standard (STD) driver circuit. Each standard communication interface in the Module Connector 2047-8 has the function of ensuring that received signals pass through and are transmitted to the output side.

[1008] Electronic control units 2047-10 and 2047-11, and universal communication connector 2047-12, are connected to the standard communication interface of module connector 2047-8. Universal communication connector 2047-12 has built-in electronic circuitry, enabling communication, load control, and signal input. The output terminals of the standard drive circuitry of module connector 2047-8 are connected to the door lock motor 2047-17 and various lighting devices 2047-18 in the door.

[1009] The electronic control unit 2047-10 includes a microcomputer that performs the processing required to control the power window, and the output terminals of the electronic control unit 2047-10 are connected to the motor (P / W MTR) of the power window.

[1010] The electronic control unit 2047-11 includes a microcomputer that controls the rearview mirror installed in the door. The output terminals of the electronic control unit 2047-11 are connected to the mirror's constituent elements 2047-14 and 2047-15. The output terminals of the universal communication connector 2047-12 are connected to the mirror heater 2047-16 and the memory switch 2047-19, etc.

[1011] Figure 95 This is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of the circuit modules installed in the passenger seat door panel.

[1012] Figure 95 The circuit module 2048-4 shown is installed in the passenger seat door panel and is connected to the control box 2048-1 located on the side of the vehicle body via branch sub-harnesses 2048-2 and 2048-3. Branch sub-harnesses 2048-2 and 2048-3 are arranged as a partition wall at the connection between the vehicle body and the passenger seat door.

[1013] The communication line of branch sub-harness 2048-2 is connected to a standard communication interface (CXPI, etc.), and the communication line of branch sub-harness 2048-3 is connected to an Ethernet-based (registered trademark) communication interface.

[1014] Circuit module 2048-4 not only includes module connection connector 2048-8, but also multiple electronic control units (ECUs) 2048-10 and 2048-11 as accessories with standard interfaces, as well as a side television 2048-9. It also includes an antenna 2048-5, a speaker 2048-6, a sensor 2048-7, a universal communication connector 2048-12, etc.

[1015] The modular connector 2048-8 integrates three standard communication interfaces based on the CXPI standard and a standard (STD) drive circuit. Electronic control units 2048-10 and 2048-11, and the universal communication connector 2048-12, are connected to the standard communication interfaces of the modular connector 2048-8. The universal communication connector 2048-12 has built-in electronic circuitry, enabling communication, load control, and signal input. The output terminals of the standard drive circuitry of the modular connector 2048-8 are connected to the door lock motor 2048-17 and various lighting devices 2048-18 in the door.

[1016] The electronic control unit 2048-10 includes a microcomputer that performs the processing required to control the power window, and the output terminals of the electronic control unit 2048-10 are connected to the motor (P / W MTR) of the power window.

[1017] The electronic control unit 2048-11 includes a microcomputer that controls the rearview mirror installed in the door. The output terminals of the electronic control unit 2048-11 are connected to the mirror's constituent elements 2048-14 and 2048-15. The output terminals of the universal communication connector 2048-12 are connected to the mirror heater 2048-16 and the lamp 2048-19.

[1018] Figure 96 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the circuit modules installed in the rear seat door panel. The left rear seat door panel has the same configuration as the right rear seat door panel.

[1019] Figure 96 The circuit module 2049-3 shown is installed in the rear door panels (each of the left and right door panels) and connected to the control box 2049-1 located on the side of the vehicle body via branch sub-harness 2049-2. Branch sub-harness 2049-2 is routed as a partition wall running through the connection between the vehicle body and the rear door. The communication line of branch sub-harness 2049-2 is connected to a standard communication interface (CXPI, etc.).

[1020] Circuit module 2049-3 includes not only module connector 2049-4, but also electronic control unit (ECU) 2049-5 as an accessory with a standard interface. Module connector 2049-4 has three standard communication interfaces based on the CXPI standard and a standard (STD) drive circuit built in. Electronic control unit 2049-5 connects to the standard communication interface of module connector 2049-4.

[1021] The output terminals of the standard drive circuit of the module connector 2049-4 are connected to the door lock motor 2049-7 in the door and various lighting devices 2049-8, 2049-9 and 2049-10.

[1022] The electronic control unit 2049-5 includes a microcomputer that performs the processing required to control the power window, and the output terminals of the electronic control unit 2049-5 are connected to the power window motor (P / W MTR) 2049-6.

[1023] Figure 97 This is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a circuit module installed in the roof of a vehicle.

[1024] Figure 97 The circuit module 2050-3 shown is located in the top of the vehicle body and is connected to the control box 2050-1 located inside the vehicle via a branch sub-harness 2050-2. The branch sub-harness 2050-2 is arranged as a partition wall running through the connection between the vehicle body and the roof. The communication line of the branch sub-harness 2050-2 is connected to a standard communication interface (CXPI, etc.).

[1025] Circuit module 2050-3 not only includes module connection connector 2050-4, but also electronic control unit (ECU) 2050-6 and rain sensor 2050-14, which are accessories with standard interfaces. It also includes microphone 2050-5 and universal communication connector 2050-7.

[1026] The Module Connector 2050-4 incorporates three standard communication interfaces based on the CXPI standard and a standard (STD) driver circuit. Each standard communication interface in the Module Connector 2050-4 has the function of allowing received signals to pass through and sending the signal to the output side.

[1027] The electronic control unit 2050-6, rain sensor 2050-14, and universal communication connector 2050-7 are connected to the standard communication interface of module connector 2050-4. Universal communication connector 2050-7 has built-in electronic circuitry, enabling communication, load control, and signal input. The output terminals of the standard drive circuitry of module connector 2050-4 are connected to various lamp loads 2050-12 and 2050-13.

[1028] The electronic control unit 2050-6 includes a microcomputer that performs the processing required for drive control, such as opening and closing the sliding roof, and its output terminals are connected to the sliding roof switch 2050-8 and the drive motor 2050-9. The output terminals of the universal communication connector 2050-7 are connected to the radio distress signal (Mayday) switch 2050-10 and the interior rearview mirror 2050-11.

[1029] Figure 98 This is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a smart connector.

[1030] Figure 98 The smart connector 2051-3 shown is a component that provides connectivity in a universal manner at various locations on a vehicle and can be connected to the desired control box via branch sub-harness 2051-2 and standard interface 2051-1.

[1031] like Figure 98 As shown, the output side connector 2051-7 of the intelligent connection connector 2051-3 can be connected to the door lock motor switch 2051-8, various lighting devices 2051-9, 2051-10 and 2051-11, door lock motor 2051-12, etc.

[1032] The control circuit 2051-4 is located in the smart connector 2051-3. The control circuit 2051-4 includes a standard communication interface 2051-4a, a power supply circuit 2051-4b, a microcomputer (CPU) 2051-4c, a signal processing circuit (STRB) 2051-4d, an input circuit 2051-4e, a smart power device (IPD) 2051-4f, and a motor driver 2051-4g.

[1033] The output-side connector 2051-7 of the intelligent connection connector 2051-3 is provided with terminals for outputting various types of power, communication terminals, terminals for inputting signals to the input circuit 2051-4e, terminals for connecting loads driven by IPD 2051-4f, and terminals for connecting motors.

[1034] The power output from the output connector 2051-7 is used to operate the electronic fuse or switch between power types (+B, +BA, IG, etc.) through processing in the microcomputer 2051-4c. For this control, switching elements are connected between the terminals of the output connector 2051-7 and the input power lines. The microcomputer 2051-4c controls the switching elements to turn on and off.

[1035] <Techniques for adding functionality by adding new units>

[1036] In this embodiment, system-side control is implemented when functionality is added by connecting a new unit to a common interface of the vehicle system. For example, in Figure 49 In the system shown, it is assumed that a new accessory AE is connected to the connector of the connection section Cnx of each control box CB via a branch sub-harness LS. However, it cannot be said that the newly connected unit is a legitimate unit; therefore, special controls are required to ensure the security of the entire system.

[1037] Although not shown, a specific example of the steps performed in this case is as follows.

[1038] Step S50: At the vehicle operator's location, the operator connects the corresponding new unit (accessory) to the connection part Cnx of the control box CB via the branch sub-wiring harness LS.

[1039] Step S51: At the vehicle operator's office, etc., the operator connects a vehicle-specific diagnostic tool (e.g., "TaSCAN") provided by the vehicle manufacturer to the vehicle's system and executes a scan command to diagnose the connected unit.

[1040] Step S52: The microcomputer of the control box CB begins scanning processing in response to a command from the diagnostic tool. First, power is supplied to the first standard interface initially connected to the connector Cnx, and the microcomputer automatically identifies whether CAN standard communication is possible for communication using that standard interface.

[1041] Step S53: If CAN standard communication cannot be established in step S52, the microcomputer switches the communication standard from CAN to CXPI and identifies whether CXPI standard communication is possible.

[1042] Step S54: If neither CAN standard communication nor CXPI standard communication is established in steps S52 and S53, the microcomputer stops supplying power to the standard interface.

[1043] Step S55: If CAN standard communication or CXPI standard communication is established in steps S52 and S53, communication is established between the diagnostic tool, the microcomputer of the control box CB, and the accessory (new unit, etc.) as the connection destination. The diagnostic tool performs predetermined processing to authenticate the accessory. The content of the authentication process is standardized in advance.

[1044] Step S56: If authentication is successful in step S55, the microcomputer of the control box CB will record the power supply to the accessory based on the standard interface in the microcomputer's storage device. For example, based on the type or ID information of the certified accessory, it will automatically identify that the type of power to be supplied is any one of "+B, +BA, IG, and IGP", and record the identification result.

[1045] Step S57: Repeat the processing in steps S52 to S56 for the second and subsequent standard interfaces in sequence.

[1046] Step S58: After completing the scanning process of all standard interfaces, the diagnostic tool or the microcomputer of the control box CB displays messages, allowing the user (or operator) to confirm the addition of functions to the new unit. This display is made using, for example, the display unit of an instrument cluster in a vehicle.

[1047] Step S59: The microcomputer of the control box CB stores information in its storage device for transferring the function confirmed by the user in step S58 to an environment in which the function can actually be used.

[1048] Therefore, for example, even if a user or a third party attempts to connect an illegal device that is not permitted by the vehicle manufacturer to the vehicle system, the illegal device cannot communicate with the legitimate vehicle system, nor can it be powered via the communication connector, and thus the illegal device cannot function at all.

[1049] <Technical information regarding the connection methods of communication systems in in-vehicle systems>

[1050] Figure 99 (a) and 99(b) and Figure 100 These are block diagrams illustrating configuration examples of communication systems in different in-vehicle systems.

[1051] Figure 99 The vehicle system shown in (a) includes three interconnected communication networks, V2-CAN, V1-CAN, and MS-CAN, which are connected via a gateway. The V2-CAN communication network is assigned to devices in the engine compartment (engine room), the V1-CAN communication network is assigned to devices in the engine system (including the instrument unit), and the MS-CAN communication network is assigned to devices in the body system (doors, power seats, etc.).

[1052] The MS-CAN communication network is set up as a domain throughout the vehicle, and each communication network, V1-CAN and V2-CAN, is divided for specific areas on the vehicle body. Various accessories connect to and are controlled by the respective MS-CAN, V1-CAN, and V2-CAN communication networks.

[1053] exist Figure 99 (b) shows the in-vehicle system in which multiple communication networks are interconnected, each responsible for a different domain, which is assigned to the driver assistance system, transmission system, chassis system, body system, and multimedia system. Each communication network uses a CAN-based communication interface. These communication networks are deployed in parallel throughout the entire vehicle.

[1054] exist Figure 100 In the illustrated vehicle-mounted system, the domain is divided into various zones such as "Zone 1", "Zone 2", "Zone 3", "Zone 4", and "Zone 5", and a communication network is formed in each zone. An optical communication network is used for the trunk lines connecting the zones to each other to achieve high-speed communication.

[1055] By using optical communication networks, high-speed communication, such as approximately 1Gbps, is possible between regions. The communication capacity of the optical communication network is distributed among multiple systems in the communication networks of various regions, thereby allocating communication to various components. Communication priorities are pre-determined based on the specific ID information assigned to each device, such as the component.

[1056] <Technical details regarding the internal configuration of the control box>

[1057] Figure 92 This is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of the control box.

[1058] Figure 92 The vehicle system shown includes five control boxes 2045-1, 2045-2, 2045-3, 2045-4 and 2045-5, and an ECU box 2045-6, which are interconnected via backbone lines 2045-7 and 2045-8.

[1059] like Figure 92 As shown, backbone line 2045-7 includes power lines and ground lines for both systems. Backbone line 2045-8 includes communication lines for both systems.

[1060] The control box 2045-1 is equipped with a power supply unit 2045-10 for two systems, two sets of network (Ethernet: registered trademark) hubs 2045-11 and 2045-12, a communication control unit 2045-13 for a gateway (GW), a WiFi communication module 2045-14, a network (Ethernet: registered trademark) hub 2045-15, a power control unit 2045-16, switching circuits 2045-17A, 2045-17B and 2045-17C, and connectors 2045-21, 2045-22, 2045-23 and 2045-24.

[1061] One of the communication lines of the two systems included in the backbone line 2045-8 is connected to network hub 2045-11, and the other communication line is connected to network hub 2045-12. The communication system on the network hub 2045-11 side is allocated for the vehicle's drivetrain and chassis systems, and the communication system on the network hub 2045-12 side is allocated for the vehicle's body system and multimedia system.

[1062] The communication control unit 2045-13 of the gateway (GW) is a functional unit implemented under the control of a microcomputer (not shown) installed in the control box 2045-1, and has the following functions.

[1063] (1) Interconnection between multiple networks based on different standards, such as protocols;

[1064] (2) Reception of relevant data packets;

[1065] (3) Signal transmission;

[1066] (4) Classification of communication in control systems and communication in driver assistance systems; and

[1067] (5) Bypass communication of advanced information.

[1068] The WiFi communication module 2045-14 is used to wirelessly connect the control box 2045-1 to other devices installed in the vehicle or devices carried by the user.

[1069] The network hub 2045-15 has the function of branching off one communication path of the communication control unit 2045-13 to connect to any one of the communication paths of connectors 2045-21, 2045-22 and 2045-23.

[1070] The power control unit 2045-16 is a functional unit implemented under the control of a microcomputer (not shown) installed in the control box 2045-1, and has the power control function as described below.

[1071] (1) The function of an electronic fuse to block the path when an overcurrent flows;

[1072] (2) Functions th...

Claims

1. A vehicle electrical circuit installed in a vehicle, comprising: The trunk line extends at least in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle; A control box is located on the main line; as well as A branch line connects the control box to the accessory. The control box includes: The control box body, which is connected to the trunk line and has tab terminals; and A card holder, which can be attached to and detached from the tab terminal of the control box body, allows for the interchangeable installation of various card holders corresponding to different vehicle equipment classes onto the control box body. The card holder includes a connector port, which forms a branch connection portion that connects to the module connector of the branch line.

2. The vehicle electrical circuit according to claim 1, wherein The main body of the control box is configured to accommodate such a card box: The card holder is selected from card holders with a different number of the connector ports.

3. The vehicle electrical circuit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein The main body of the control box is configured to accommodate such a card box: The card holder is selected from those corresponding to power supplies of different voltages.

4. The vehicle electrical circuit according to claim 3, wherein The card holders corresponding to different voltage power supplies include: a card holder with a connector port corresponding to a 48V power supply; and a card holder with a connector port corresponding to a 12V power supply.

5. The vehicle electrical circuit according to claim 3, wherein The card holders corresponding to power supplies of different voltages include: a card holder having a connector port corresponding to a 4.8 terminal; and a card holder having a connector port corresponding to a 1.5 terminal.

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