In-vehicle network system, gateway device, and communication method

Abstract

The invention relates to an in-vehicle network system, a gateway device, and a communication method. This in-vehicle network system is provided with: a plurality of networks each including a plurality of electronic control devices and a communication bus that connects the plurality of electronic control devices to each other; and a gateway device to which a plurality of networks are connected, the gateway device being configured so as to enable the plurality of electronic control devices to communicate with each other in accordance with a CAN protocol. A processing device provided in a gateway device is configured to determine a transmission destination of an activation request message so that the gateway device only transmits the activation request message to a network including the electronic control device to be activated by referring to a frame included in the activation request message for specifying the electronic control device to be activated.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an in-vehicle network system, a gateway device, and a communication method. Background Art

[0002] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2017-144893 discloses an in-vehicle network system in which a plurality of electronic control devices mounted on a vehicle communicate with each other. The CAN (Controller Area Network) protocol is applied to the communication via a communication bus in the in-vehicle network system.

[0003] A partial network is known that activates only some of the electronic control devices in a vehicle-mounted network system and maintains the remaining electronic control devices in a sleep state. The partial network can reduce the power consumption of the vehicle-mounted network system.

[0004] The electronic control device adapted to the local network is activated upon receiving an activation request message including a specific frame independently allocated to each device, and moves to an active state. The active state is a state in which the electronic control device can execute an application.

[0005] When receiving a startup request message that does not include a specific frame assigned to the electronic control device, the electronic control device for the local network ignores the startup request message. As a result, the electronic control device maintains a sleep state. The sleep state is a state in which the function of executing an application is stopped to reduce power consumption.

[0006] The electronic control device not suitable for the local network does not have a structure for ignoring the activation request message for activating other electronic control devices. Therefore, if the electronic control device not suitable for the local network receives the activation request message for activating other electronic control devices, it will be activated even if it is not necessary. Summary of the invention

[0007] The vehicle network system involved in one embodiment of the present disclosure comprises: a plurality of networks, each network including a plurality of electronic control devices and a communication bus connecting the plurality of electronic control devices to each other; and a gateway device for connecting the plurality of networks, configured to enable the plurality of electronic control devices to communicate with each other according to the CAN protocol. The gateway device comprises a processing device. The processing device is configured to determine the sending target of the startup request message when the gateway device receives a startup request message including a frame for determining the electronic control device that should be started. The processing device is configured to determine the sending target of the startup request message by referring to the frame included in the startup request message, so that the gateway device does not send the startup request message to the network that does not include the electronic control device that should be started, but sends the startup request message to the network that includes the electronic control device that should be started.

[0008] The gateway device involved in one embodiment of the present disclosure is applied to an in-vehicle network system. The in-vehicle network system includes a plurality of networks, and the plurality of networks are connected to the gateway device, and each of the plurality of networks includes a plurality of electronic control devices and a communication bus that connects the plurality of electronic control devices to each other. The gateway device is configured to relay the communication between the plurality of electronic control devices so that the plurality of electronic control devices can communicate with each other according to the CAN protocol. The gateway device includes a processing device. The processing device is configured to determine the sending target of the startup request message when the gateway device receives a startup request message including a frame for determining the electronic control device that should be started. The processing device is configured to determine the sending target of the startup request message by referring to the frame included in the startup request message, so that the gateway device does not send the startup request message to the network that does not include the electronic control device that should be started, but sends the startup request message to the network that includes the electronic control device that should be started.

[0009] A communication method according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is a communication method in an in-vehicle network system, the in-vehicle network system comprising: a plurality of networks, each network including a plurality of electronic control devices and a communication bus connecting the plurality of electronic control devices to each other; and a gateway device connected to the plurality of networks, configured to relay the communication between the plurality of electronic control devices so that the plurality of electronic control devices can communicate with each other according to the CAN protocol. The communication method comprises: the gateway device receives a start request message including a frame for determining the electronic control device to be started from at least one of the electronic control devices. The communication method comprises: the gateway device refers to the frame included in the received start request message, and determines the sending destination of the start request message in a manner that the start request message is not sent to the network that does not include the electronic control device to be started, but is sent to the network that includes the electronic control device to be started. The communication method comprises: the gateway device sends the start request message only to the determined sending destination network. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] Figure 1 It is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of an in-vehicle network system according to an embodiment.

[0011] Figure 2 Yes Figure 1 A table showing in a comprehensive manner the relationship between combinations of applications that are executed simultaneously in order to operate various functional systems and networks to which electronic control devices including the applications belong in an in-vehicle network system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0012] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram showing which electronic control device is activated in the case of the first comparative example.

[0013] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram showing which electronic control device is activated in the case of the second example in the first comparative example.

[0014] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram showing which electronic control device is activated in the case of Case 3 in the first comparative example.

[0015] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram showing which electronic control device is activated in the case of Case 4 in the first comparative example.

[0016] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram showing which electronic control device is activated in the case of the first example in the second comparative example.

[0017] Figure 8This is a schematic diagram showing which electronic control device is activated in the case of Example 2 in the second comparative example.

[0018] Fig. 9 This is a schematic diagram showing which electronic control device is activated in the case of Case 3 in the second comparative example.

[0019] Fig.10 This is a schematic diagram showing which electronic control device is activated in the case of Case 4 in the second comparative example.

[0020] Fig.11 It means that when receiving the start request message Figure 1 A flowchart of a series of processing steps performed by a processing device of a gateway device.

[0021] Fig.12 It means in Figure 1 A schematic diagram showing which electronic control device is activated in case 1 in the vehicle network system of an embodiment.

[0022] Fig.13 It means in Figure 1 A schematic diagram showing which electronic control device is activated in case 2 in the vehicle network system of an embodiment.

[0023] Fig.14 It means in Figure 1 A schematic diagram showing which electronic control device is activated in case 3 in the vehicle network system of an embodiment.

[0024] Fig.15 It means in Figure 1 A schematic diagram showing which electronic control device is activated in case 4 in the vehicle network system of an embodiment.

[0025] Fig.16 This is a table that collectively shows the combination of electronic control devices that are to be operated simultaneously in order to operate each functional system in the in-vehicle network system of the modified example and the relationship between the network in which each electronic control device is arranged. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0026] Below, refer to Figure 1 to Figure 15 An embodiment of the in-vehicle network system will be described.

[0027] <In-vehicle network system configuration>

[0028] Figure 1 The configuration of the vehicle network system of the embodiment is shown. Figure 1As shown, the vehicle-mounted network system includes a gateway device 100. The vehicle-mounted network system includes a plurality of electronic control units ECU. The plurality of electronic control unit ECUs are connected to the gateway device 100 via a plurality of communication buses BUS. Some of the plurality of electronic control unit ECUs are connected to each other via a communication bus BUS and are connected to the gateway device 100. In the vehicle-mounted network system, a plurality of electronic control unit ECUs connected to each other via a communication bus BUS constitute a network.

[0029] For example, Figure 1 As shown, the first communication bus BUS_1 and the second communication bus BUS_2 are connected to the gateway device 100. The first electronic control unit ECU_1 and the second electronic control unit ECU_2 are connected to the first communication bus BUS_1. The third electronic control unit ECU_3, the fourth electronic control unit ECU_4 and the fifth electronic control unit ECU_5 are connected to the second communication bus BUS_2. The first electronic control unit ECU_1 and the second electronic control unit ECU_2 are connected to the gateway device 100 via the first communication bus BUS_1. The third electronic control unit ECU_3 to the fifth electronic control unit ECU_5 are connected to the gateway device 100 via the second communication bus BUS_2. The first electronic control unit ECU_1 and the second electronic control unit ECU_2 constitute a network connected via the first communication bus BUS_1, and the third electronic control unit ECU_3 to the fifth electronic control unit ECU_5 constitute a network connected via the second communication bus BUS_2.

[0030] Each electronic control unit ECU includes at least one application APL to be executed by the electronic control unit ECU. Figure 1 As shown, the first electronic control unit ECU_1 includes a first application APL_1. The second electronic control unit ECU_2 includes a second application APL_2. The third electronic control unit ECU_3 includes a third application APL_3. The fourth electronic control unit ECU_4 includes a fourth application APL_4 and a fifth application APL_5. The fifth electronic control unit ECU_5 includes a sixth application APL_6.

[0031] In a vehicle equipped with the in-vehicle network system, various functions are realized by combining and simultaneously executing two or more of a plurality of applications APLs provided in a plurality of electronic control units ECU.

[0032] Figure 2 It means that Figure 1 The table shows a combination of multiple applications APL executed in the vehicle network system to realize various functions. The functions realized are various, such as automatic parking function, automatic braking function, remote door lock function, remote air conditioning function, and security function.

[0033] exist Figure 2 In the example shown, the vehicle includes a first functional system, a second functional system, and a third functional system that respectively realize different functions. Figure 2 As shown, the first functional system realizes the corresponding function by combining the first application APL_1, the fourth application APL_4, and the sixth application APL_6 and executing them simultaneously. The second functional system realizes the corresponding function by combining the third application APL_3 and the sixth application APL_6 and executing them simultaneously. The third functional system realizes the corresponding function by combining the first application APL_1 and the second application APL_2 and executing them simultaneously.

[0034] A plurality of electronic control units ECU communicate with each other via the gateway device 100 in accordance with a CAN (Controller Area Network) protocol.

[0035] The gateway device 100 includes a processing device 110, a storage device 120, and a transceiver 130. The transceiver 130 functions as a communication interface with a communication bus BUS.

[0036] The in-vehicle network system is configured as a partial network capable of realizing a partial network that activates only some of the plurality of electronic control units ECU and maintains the remaining electronic control units ECU in a sleep state. The in-vehicle network system can reduce power consumption through the partial network.

[0037] Each electronic control unit ECU is equipped with a timer 220 and a transceiver 230. The vehicle network system moves the unused electronic control unit ECU to a sleep state in order to reduce power consumption. The timer 220 controls the count value used to move the electronic control unit ECU to a sleep state. For example, the timer 220 regularly counts up the count value when the electronic control unit ECU equipped with the timer 220 is in an activated state. The timer 220 resets the count value when the electronic control unit ECU equipped with the timer 220 receives a start request message described later. The electronic control unit ECU moves to a sleep state when the count value reaches a predetermined value. That is, the electronic control unit ECU automatically moves to a sleep state when the state of not receiving a start request message continues for a certain period of time. The start request message is sent, for example, by any electronic control unit ECU.

[0038] The transceiver 230 functions as a communication interface with the communication bus BUS. The transceiver 230 includes a transceiver 230A suitable for a local network and a transceiver 230B not suitable for a local network. Figure 1In the in-vehicle network system shown, the first electronic control unit ECU_1, the second electronic control unit ECU_2, and the third electronic control unit ECU_3 each have a transceiver 230A suitable for a local network. On the other hand, the fourth electronic control unit ECU_4 and the fifth electronic control unit ECU_5 each have a transceiver 230B that is not suitable for a local network. That is, the first electronic control unit ECU_1, the second electronic control unit ECU_2, and the third electronic control unit ECU_3 are electronic control unit ECUs suitable for a local network. The fourth electronic control unit ECU_4 and the fifth electronic control unit ECU_5 are electronic control unit ECUs that are not suitable for a local network. In the accompanying drawings, the reference numerals of the electronic control unit ECUs suitable for a local network are marked with "PN" in brackets to indicate that they are electronic control unit ECUs suitable for a local network.

[0039] <About Local Network>

[0040] The electronic control unit ECU adapted to the local network is activated upon receiving an activation request message including a specific frame independently allocated to each of the electronic control units, and moves to an active state. The active state is a state in which the electronic control unit ECU can execute the application APL.

[0041] When receiving a startup request message that does not include a specific frame assigned to the electronic control unit ECU, the electronic control unit ECU for the local network ignores the startup request message. As a result, the electronic control unit ECU maintains a sleep state. The sleep state is a state in which the function of executing the application APL is stopped to reduce power consumption.

[0042] The transceiver 230B of the electronic control unit ECU that is not suitable for the local network does not have the function of ignoring the startup request message that does not include the specific frame assigned to the electronic control unit ECU. Therefore, if the electronic control unit ECU that is not suitable for the local network receives a startup request message for starting another electronic control unit ECU, it will start even though it does not need to start. Figures 3 to 10 Specific examples 1 to 4 will be described below.

[0043] Figures 3 to 10 The vehicle network system shown has Figure 1 The same network structure as the vehicle network system shown in the figure. Figure 1 Similarly, in the illustrated in-vehicle network system, each of the first electronic control unit ECU_1 to the fifth electronic control unit ECU_5 includes at least one of the first application APL_1 to the sixth application APL_6.

[0044] exist Figure 3 to Figure 6 In the in-vehicle network system of the first comparative example shown in FIG. Figure 1 Unlike the in-vehicle network system shown, all of the first electronic control unit ECU_1 to the fifth electronic control unit ECU_5 are suitable for a local network. Figure 7 to Figure 10 The in-vehicle network system of the second comparative example shown in FIG. Figure 1 In the illustrated in-vehicle network system, the fourth electronic control unit ECU_4 and the fifth electronic control unit ECU_5 are also not suitable for the local network.

[0045] <Case 1 in the first comparative example>

[0046] like Figure 2 As shown, "2" is assigned as the group ID to the first functional system. "3" is assigned as the group ID to the second functional system. "4" is assigned as the group ID to the third functional system. The start request message sent by the transceiver 230A of the electronic control unit ECU suitable for the local network includes a frame indicating the group ID as a frame for determining the electronic control unit ECU to be started. The transceiver 230A of the electronic control unit ECU suitable for the local network refers to the frame included in the start request message to determine whether to ignore the start request message. The group ID of the start request message to be followed instead of ignored is assigned to each electronic control unit ECU suitable for the local network. Each transceiver 230A refers to the frame included in the received start request message. Each transceiver 230A accepts the start request message when the group ID indicated by the frame is consistent with the assigned group ID. Each transceiver 230A also accepts the start request message when the start request message does not include a frame indicating the group ID. The electronic control unit ECU that receives the activation request message is activated from the sleep state to the active state. If the group ID indicated by the frame does not match the assigned group ID, each transceiver 230A does not receive and ignores the activation request message. In this case, the electronic control unit ECU maintains the sleep state.

[0047] like Figure 2 As shown, in order to realize the function of the first functional system, the first application APL_1, the fourth application APL_4 and the sixth application APL_6 are executed. In the case of the first comparative example, the first electronic control unit ECU_1, the fourth electronic control unit ECU_4 and the fifth electronic control unit ECU_5 respectively having these applications APL are assigned "2" as the group ID of the startup request message to be followed without being ignored.

[0048] In order to realize the function of the second functional system, the third application APL_3 and the sixth application APL_6 are executed. Therefore, in the first comparative example, the third electronic control unit ECU_3 and the fifth electronic control unit ECU_5 having these applications APL are assigned "3" as the group ID of the activation request message to be followed without being ignored.

[0049] In order to realize the function of the third functional system, the first application APL_1 and the second application APL_2 are executed. Therefore, in the first comparative example, the first electronic control unit ECU_1 and the second electronic control unit ECU_2 each having these applications APL are assigned "4" as the group ID of the activation request message to be followed without being ignored.

[0050] That is, Figure 3 to Figure 6 As shown, in the case of the first comparative example, the first electronic control unit ECU_1 is assigned "2" and "4" as the group ID of the startup request message that is not ignored but to be followed. The second electronic control unit ECU_2 is assigned "4" as the group ID of the startup request message that is not ignored but to be followed. The third electronic control unit ECU_3 is assigned "3" as the group ID of the startup request message that is not ignored but to be followed. The fourth electronic control unit ECU_4 is assigned "2" as the group ID of the startup request message that is not ignored but to be followed. The fifth electronic control unit ECU_5 is assigned "2" and "3" as the group ID of the startup request message that is not ignored but to be followed.

[0051] The activation request message transmitted from each electronic control unit ECU is relayed by the gateway device 100 and transmitted to all other electronic control units ECU. The processing device 110 of the gateway device 100 refers to the activation request message to understand which electronic control unit ECU is in an active state.

[0052] Case 1 is an example for explaining the behavior of each electronic control unit ECU when the first electronic control unit ECU_1 sends an activation request message in order to operate the first functional system. Figure 3 As shown, in the case of case 1 in the first comparative example, an activation request message is transmitted to each electronic control unit ECU other than the first electronic control unit ECU_1 via the gateway device 100. The activation request message includes a frame indicating "2" as the group ID.

[0053] like Figure 3 As shown in FIG. 1 , the second electronic control unit ECU_2 is not assigned "2" as the group ID. Therefore, the transceiver 230A of the second electronic control unit ECU_2 that receives the start request message ignores the start request message and does not accept it. The second electronic control unit ECU_2 does not start and remains in the sleep state. Figures 3 to 10 In FIG. 1 , the electronic control unit ECU that maintains a sleep state is indicated by a dotted line. Figures 3 to 10 In FIG. 1 , the electronic control unit ECU which is started and shifted to an active state is indicated by a solid line.

[0054] like Figure 3As shown, "2" is not assigned as the group ID to the third electronic control unit ECU_3. Therefore, the transceiver 230A of the third electronic control unit ECU_3 that has received the activation request message ignores the activation request message and does not accept it. The third electronic control unit ECU_3 does not activate but remains in the sleep state.

[0055] like Figure 3 As shown, "2" is assigned to the fourth electronic control unit ECU_4 as the group ID. Therefore, the transceiver 230A of the fourth electronic control unit ECU_4 that has received the activation request message accepts the activation request message. The fourth electronic control unit ECU_4 is activated and shifts to an active state.

[0056] like Figure 3 As shown, "2" is assigned to the fifth electronic control unit ECU_5 as the group ID. Therefore, the transceiver 230A of the fifth electronic control unit ECU_5 that has received the activation request message accepts the activation request message. The fifth electronic control unit ECU_5 is activated and shifts to an active state.

[0057] Thus, in the case of Example 1 in the first comparative example, the first electronic control unit ECU_1, the fourth electronic control unit ECU_4, and the fifth electronic control unit ECU_5, each of which has the application APL executed to realize the function of the first functional system, are activated. On the other hand, the second electronic control unit ECU_2 and the third electronic control unit ECU_3, which do not have the application APL executed to realize the function of the first functional system, maintain the sleep state.

[0058] <Case 2 in Comparative Example 1>

[0059] Case 2 is an example for explaining the behavior of each electronic control unit ECU when the fourth electronic control unit ECU_4 transmits an activation request message in order to operate the first functional system.

[0060] like Figure 4 As shown, in the case of the second example in the first comparative example, an activation request message is transmitted to each electronic control unit ECU other than the fourth electronic control unit ECU_4 via the gateway device 100. The activation request message includes a frame indicating "2" as the group ID.

[0061] like Figure 4 As shown, "2" is assigned to the first electronic control unit ECU_1 as the group ID. Therefore, the transceiver 230A of the first electronic control unit ECU_1 that has received the activation request message accepts the activation request message. The first electronic control unit ECU_1 is activated and shifts to an active state.

[0062] like Figure 4As shown, "2" is not assigned as the group ID to the second electronic control unit ECU_2. Therefore, the transceiver 230A of the second electronic control unit ECU_2 that has received the activation request message ignores the activation request message and does not accept it. The second electronic control unit ECU_2 does not activate but remains in the sleep state.

[0063] like Figure 4 As shown, "2" is not assigned as the group ID to the third electronic control unit ECU_3. Therefore, the transceiver 230A of the third electronic control unit ECU_3 that has received the activation request message ignores the activation request message and does not accept it. The third electronic control unit ECU_3 does not activate but remains in the sleep state.

[0064] like Figure 4 As shown, "2" is assigned to the fifth electronic control unit ECU_5 as the group ID. Therefore, the transceiver 230A of the fifth electronic control unit ECU_5 that has received the activation request message accepts the activation request message. The fifth electronic control unit ECU_5 is activated and shifts to an active state.

[0065] In this way, Figure 4 In the case of case 2 in the first comparative example shown, the first electronic control unit ECU_1, the fourth electronic control unit ECU_4, and the fifth electronic control unit ECU_5, each of which has an application APL executed to realize the function of the first functional system, are also activated. On the other hand, the second electronic control unit ECU_2 and the third electronic control unit ECU_3, which do not have an application APL executed to realize the function of the first functional system, remain in a dormant state.

[0066] <Case 3 in Comparative Example 1>

[0067] Case 3 is an example for explaining the behavior of each electronic control unit ECU when the second electronic control unit ECU_2 transmits an activation request message in order to operate the third functional system.

[0068] like Figure 5 As shown, in the case of case 3 in the first comparative example, an activation request message is transmitted to each electronic control unit ECU other than the second electronic control unit ECU_2 via the gateway device 100. The activation request message includes a frame indicating "4" as the group ID.

[0069] like Figure 5 As shown, "4" is allocated as the group ID to the first electronic control unit ECU_1. Therefore, the transceiver 230A of the first electronic control unit ECU_1 that has received the activation request message accepts the activation request message. The first electronic control unit ECU_1 is activated and shifts to an active state.

[0070] like Figure 5 As shown, "4" is not assigned as the group ID to the third electronic control unit ECU_3. Therefore, the transceiver 230A of the third electronic control unit ECU_3 that has received the activation request message ignores the activation request message and does not accept it. The third electronic control unit ECU_3 does not activate but remains in the sleep state.

[0071] like Figure 5 As shown, "4" is not assigned as the group ID to the fourth electronic control unit ECU_4. Therefore, the transceiver 230A of the fourth electronic control unit ECU_4 that has received the activation request message ignores the activation request message and does not accept it. The fourth electronic control unit ECU_4 does not activate but remains in the sleep state.

[0072] like Figure 5 As shown, "4" is not assigned as the group ID to the fifth electronic control unit ECU_5. Therefore, the transceiver 230A of the fifth electronic control unit ECU_5 that has received the activation request message ignores the activation request message and does not accept it. The fifth electronic control unit ECU_5 does not activate but remains in the sleep state.

[0073] In this way, Figure 5 In the case of case 3 in the first comparative example shown, the first electronic control unit ECU_1 and the second electronic control unit ECU_2, each of which has an application APL executed to realize the function of the third functional system, are activated. On the other hand, the third electronic control unit ECU_3, the fourth electronic control unit ECU_4, and the fifth electronic control unit ECU_5, which do not have an application APL executed to realize the function of the third functional system, remain in a dormant state.

[0074] <Case 4 in the first comparative example>

[0075] Case 4 is an example for explaining the behavior of each electronic control unit ECU when the third electronic control unit ECU_3 transmits an activation request message in order to operate the second functional system.

[0076] like Figure 6 As shown, in the case of case 4 in the first comparative example, an activation request message is transmitted to each electronic control unit ECU other than the third electronic control unit ECU_3 via the gateway device 100. The activation request message includes a frame indicating "3" as the group ID.

[0077] like Figure 6 As shown, "3" is not assigned as the group ID to the first electronic control unit ECU_1. Therefore, the transceiver 230A of the first electronic control unit ECU_1 that has received the activation request message ignores the activation request message and does not accept it. The first electronic control unit ECU_1 does not activate but remains in the sleep state.

[0078] like Figure 6 As shown, "3" is not assigned as the group ID to the second electronic control unit ECU_2. Therefore, the transceiver 230A of the second electronic control unit ECU_2 that receives the activation request message ignores the activation request message and does not accept it. The second electronic control unit ECU_2 does not activate but remains in the sleep state.

[0079] like Figure 6 As shown, "3" is not assigned as the group ID to the fourth electronic control unit ECU_4. Therefore, the transceiver 230A of the fourth electronic control unit ECU_4 that has received the activation request message ignores the activation request message and does not accept it. The fourth electronic control unit ECU_4 does not activate but remains in the sleep state.

[0080] like Figure 6 As shown, "3" is assigned to the fifth electronic control unit ECU_5 as the group ID. Therefore, the transceiver 230A of the fifth electronic control unit ECU_5 that has received the activation request message accepts the activation request message. The fifth electronic control unit ECU_5 is activated and shifts to an active state.

[0081] In this way, Figure 6 In the case of case 4 in the first comparative example shown, the third electronic control unit ECU_3 and the fifth electronic control unit ECU_5, each of which has an application APL executed to realize the function of the second functional system, are activated. On the other hand, the first electronic control unit ECU_1, the second electronic control unit ECU_2, and the fourth electronic control unit ECU_4, which do not have an application APL executed to realize the function of the second functional system, remain in a dormant state.

[0082] Thus, in the first comparative example in which all electronic control units ECU are adapted to the local network, in any case, only the electronic control unit ECUs having the application APL executed to realize the functions of each functional system are activated. That is, the vehicle network system of the first comparative example in which all electronic control units ECU are adapted to the local network can reduce power consumption by activating only the minimum number of electronic control units ECUs.

[0083] <Case 1 in the second comparative example>

[0084] As described above, in the in-vehicle network system of the second comparative example, the fourth electronic control unit ECU_4 and the fifth electronic control unit ECU_5 are not suitable for the local network. As described above, case 1 is an example for explaining the behavior of each electronic control unit ECU when the first electronic control unit ECU_1 sends a start request message to operate the first functional system.

[0085] like Figure 7As shown, in the case 1, the activation request message is transmitted to each electronic control unit ECU other than the first electronic control unit ECU_1 via the gateway device 100. The activation request message includes a frame indicating "2" as the group ID.

[0086] like Figure 7 As shown, "2" is not assigned as the group ID to the second electronic control unit ECU_2. Therefore, the transceiver 230A of the second electronic control unit ECU_2 that has received the activation request message ignores the activation request message and does not accept it. The second electronic control unit ECU_2 does not activate but remains in the sleep state.

[0087] like Figure 7 As shown, "2" is not assigned as the group ID to the third electronic control unit ECU_3. Therefore, the transceiver 230A of the third electronic control unit ECU_3 that has received the activation request message ignores the activation request message and does not accept it. The third electronic control unit ECU_3 does not activate but remains in the sleep state.

[0088] The fourth electronic control unit ECU_4 in the second comparative example is not suitable for the local network. The transceiver 230B mounted on the electronic control unit ECU that is not suitable for the local network does not have the function of confirming the frame included in the start request message and ignoring the start request message used to start other electronic control units ECU. Therefore, the transceiver 230B of the fourth electronic control unit ECU_4 that receives the start request message accepts the start request message. As a result, Figure 7 As shown, the fourth electronic control unit ECU_4 is started up and shifted to an active state.

[0089] The fifth electronic control unit ECU_5 is also not suitable for the local network. Therefore, the transceiver 230B of the fifth electronic control unit ECU_5 that has received the start request message also accepts the start request message. As a result, Figure 7 As shown, the fifth electronic control unit ECU_5 is also started up and shifted to the active state.

[0090] In this way, Figure 7 In the case of Example 1 in the second comparative example shown, the first electronic control unit ECU_1, the fourth electronic control unit ECU_4, and the fifth electronic control unit ECU_5, each of which has an application APL executed to realize the function of the first functional system, are activated. On the other hand, the second electronic control unit ECU_2 and the third electronic control unit ECU_3, which do not have an application APL executed to realize the function of the first functional system, remain in a dormant state.

[0091] <Case 2 in the second comparative example>

[0092] As described above, Case 2 is an example for explaining the behavior of each electronic control unit ECU when the fourth electronic control unit ECU_4 transmits an activation request message in order to operate the first functional system.

[0093] As described above, the fourth electronic control unit ECU_4 in the second comparative example is not suitable for a local network. The transceiver 230B does not have a function of transmitting a start request message including information indicating a group ID indicating which functional system is to be started. Figure 8 As shown, the start request message sent from the fourth electronic control unit ECU_4 does not include a frame indicating the group ID. Therefore, in the case of Example 2 in the second comparative example, a start request message not including a frame indicating the group ID is sent to each electronic control unit ECU other than the fourth electronic control unit ECU_4 via the gateway device 100.

[0094] As described above, the transceiver 230A accepts the activation request message when the activation request message does not include a frame indicating the group ID. The transceiver 230B accepts the activation request message regardless of whether the frame including the group ID is included.

[0095] Therefore, if Figure 8 As shown, in the case of the second comparative example, the first electronic control unit ECU_1, the second electronic control unit ECU_2, the third electronic control unit ECU_3, and the fifth electronic control unit ECU_5 that have received the start request message are all started.

[0096] like Figure 4 As shown, in the case of Example 2 in the first comparative example, the second electronic control unit ECU_2 and the third electronic control unit ECU_3 which do not have the application APL required for the operation of the first functional system can be maintained in a dormant state. In contrast, in the case of Example 2 in the second comparative example, as Figure 8 As shown by the two-dot chain line in the figure, the second electronic control unit ECU_2 and the third electronic control unit ECU_3 are also started up and shifted to the active state.

[0097] <Case 3 in the second comparative example>

[0098] As described above, Case 3 is an example for explaining the behavior of each electronic control unit ECU when the second electronic control unit ECU_2 transmits the activation request message in order to operate the third functional system.

[0099] like Fig. 9As shown, in the case of case 3, an activation request message is transmitted to each electronic control unit ECU other than the second electronic control unit ECU_2 via the gateway device 100. The activation request message includes a frame indicating "4" as the group ID.

[0100] like Fig. 9 As shown, "4" is allocated as the group ID to the first electronic control unit ECU_1. Therefore, the transceiver 230A of the first electronic control unit ECU_1 that has received the activation request message accepts the activation request message. The first electronic control unit ECU_1 is activated and shifts to an active state.

[0101] like Fig. 9 As shown, "4" is not assigned as the group ID to the third electronic control unit ECU_3. Therefore, the transceiver 230A of the third electronic control unit ECU_3 that has received the activation request message ignores the activation request message and does not accept it. The third electronic control unit ECU_3 does not activate but remains in the sleep state.

[0102] like Fig. 9 As shown, the fourth electronic control unit ECU_4 in the second comparative example is not suitable for the local network. Therefore, the transceiver 230B of the fourth electronic control unit ECU_4 that has received the activation request message accepts the activation request message. The fourth electronic control unit ECU_4 is activated and shifts to the active state.

[0103] The fifth electronic control unit ECU_5 is also not suitable for the local network. Therefore, the transceiver 230B of the fifth electronic control unit ECU_5 that has received the activation request message also accepts the activation request message. The fifth electronic control unit ECU_5 is also activated and shifts to the active state.

[0104] like Figure 5 As shown, in the case of case 3 in the first comparative example, the electronic control unit ECU that does not have the application APL executed to realize the function of the third functional system can be maintained in a dormant state. That is, in comparative example 1, the third electronic control unit ECU_3, the fourth electronic control unit ECU_4, and the fifth electronic control unit ECU_5 can be maintained in a dormant state. In contrast, in the case of case 3 in the second comparative example, as Fig. 9 As shown by the two-dot chain line in the figure, the fourth electronic control unit ECU_4 and the fifth electronic control unit ECU_5 are started up and shifted to the active state.

[0105] <Case 4 in the second comparative example>

[0106] As described above, Case 4 is an example for explaining the behavior of each electronic control unit ECU when the third electronic control unit ECU_3 transmits the activation request message in order to operate the second functional system.

[0107] like Fig.10 As shown, in the case of case 4, an activation request message is transmitted to each electronic control unit ECU other than the third electronic control unit ECU_3 via the gateway device 100. The activation request message includes a frame indicating "3" as the group ID.

[0108] like Fig.10 As shown, "3" is not assigned as the group ID to the first electronic control unit ECU_1. Therefore, the transceiver 230A of the first electronic control unit ECU_1 that has received the activation request message ignores the activation request message and does not accept it. The first electronic control unit ECU_1 does not activate but remains in the sleep state.

[0109] like Fig.10 As shown, "3" is not assigned as the group ID to the second electronic control unit ECU_2. Therefore, the transceiver 230A of the second electronic control unit ECU_2 that receives the activation request message ignores the activation request message and does not accept it. The second electronic control unit ECU_2 does not activate but remains in the sleep state.

[0110] Since the transceiver 230B accepts the start request message, Fig.10 As shown, the fourth electronic control unit ECU_4 and the fifth electronic control unit ECU_5 which have received the start request message are started up and shifted to the active state.

[0111] like Figure 6 As shown, in the case of Example 4 in the first comparative example, the electronic control unit ECU that does not have the application APL executed to realize the function of the second functional system can be maintained in a dormant state. That is, in Comparative Example 1, the first electronic control unit ECU_1, the second electronic control unit ECU_2, and the fourth electronic control unit ECU_4 can be maintained in a dormant state. In contrast, in the case of Example 4 in the second comparative example, as Fig.10 As shown by the double-dashed line in FIG. 8 , the fourth electronic control unit ECU_4 is started up and shifted to an active state.

[0112] In this way, when the in-vehicle network system includes an electronic control unit ECU that is not suitable for the local network, the electronic control unit ECU that does not need to be activated may be activated.

[0113] <Processing in the In-Vehicle Network System of the Present Embodiment>

[0114] In the in-vehicle network system of this embodiment, the gateway device 100 refers to the frame included in the startup request message and sends the startup request message only to the network where the electronic control unit ECU to be started is configured. Figure 1As shown, a first database 121 and a second database 122 are stored in the storage device 120 of the gateway device 100 .

[0115] The first database 121 is a database that summarizes the combinations of multiple application APLs executed to achieve various functions. That is, the first database 121 is a database that represents the correspondence between the combinations of multiple application APLs executed simultaneously, that is, multiple groups and the application APLs belonging to each group. Figure 1 The first database 121 of the vehicle network system shown in FIG. 1 stores Figure 2 The information shown in the part surrounded by dotted lines.

[0116] The second database 122 is a database showing the correspondence between a plurality of networks in the vehicle network system and the application APL executed by the electronic control unit ECU belonging to each network. Figure 1 The second database 122 of the vehicle network system shown in FIG. 1 stores Figure 2 The information shown in the part surrounded by a solid line.

[0117] Fig.11 1 shows the flow of a series of processes in a routine executed by the processing device 110 of the gateway device 100. The processing device 110 executes this routine every time a start request message is received from each electronic control unit ECU.

[0118] like Fig.11 As shown in FIG. 1 , if the routine is started, the processing device 110 obtains the group ID included in the startup request message in the process of step S100. Specifically, the processing device 110 obtains the group ID by referring to the frame indicating the group ID included in the startup request message. If the startup request message does not include a frame indicating the group ID, the processing device 110 cannot obtain the group ID. In this case, the processing device 110 directly proceeds to the process of the next step S110.

[0119] In the next step S110, the processing device 110 determines the destination of the start request message. Specifically, the processing device 110 refers to the acquired group ID, the first database 121, and the second database 122 to determine the network where the electronic control unit ECU to be started is configured. Furthermore, the processing device 110 determines the destination of the start request message in such a manner that the start request message is sent only to the network where the electronic control unit ECU to be started is configured.

[0120] like Figure 2 As shown, by combining the information of the first database 121 and the information of the second database 122 , the processing device 110 can identify the network in which the ECU to be activated is arranged based on the group ID.

[0121] For example, when the obtained group ID is "4", Figure 2 As shown, it can be seen that the required applications APL are the first application APL_1 and the second application APL_2. Moreover, it can be seen that the first electronic control unit ECU_1 executing the first application APL_1 and the second electronic control unit ECU_2 executing the second application APL_2 both belong to the network formed by the first communication bus BUS_1. Thus, the processing device 110 recognizes that the network in which the electronic control unit ECU that should be started is configured is the network formed by the first communication bus BUS_1. The processing device 110 recognizes that the network in which the electronic control unit ECU that should be started is not configured is the network formed by the second communication bus BUS_2.

[0122] When the group ID cannot be acquired, the processing device 110 determines the destination of the activation request message so as to transmit the activation request message to all networks.

[0123] In the process of the next step S120, the processing device 110 transmits a start request message to the network of the transmission destination.

[0124] As described above, in the vehicle network system of the present embodiment, the processing device 110 determines the sending target of the start request message by referring to the frame included in the start request message. The processing device 110 determines the sending target by sending the start request message to the network configured with the electronic control unit ECU that should be started instead of sending the start request message to the network that is not configured with the electronic control unit ECU that should be started. The processing device 110 determines the sending target of the start request message by referring to the frame included in the start request message. Moreover, the gateway device 100 sends the start request message only to the network that is configured with the electronic control unit ECU that should be started.

[0125] If the group ID cannot be acquired, the processing device 110 determines the destination of the activation request message so that the activation request message is transmitted to all networks. Then, the gateway device 100 transmits the activation request message to all networks.

[0126] <Function of this embodiment>

[0127] Next, refer to Figure 12 to Figure 15 The effect of this embodiment will be described by applying it to the above-mentioned Examples 1 to 4.

[0128] <Case 1 of the In-Vehicle Network System of the Present Embodiment>

[0129] In the vehicle network system of this embodiment, similarly to the second comparative example, the fourth electronic control unit ECU_4 and the fifth electronic control unit ECU_5 are not suitable for the local network. As described above, Example 1 is an example for explaining the behavior of each electronic control unit ECU when the first electronic control unit ECU_1 sends a start request message in order to operate the first functional system.

[0130] like Fig.12 As shown, in the case 1, the first electronic control unit ECU_1 transmits an activation request message to the gateway device 100. The activation request message includes a frame indicating "2" as the group ID.

[0131] The gateway device 100 receives the activation request message and obtains the group ID ( S100 ). The gateway device 100 refers to the frame included in the received activation request message, the first database 121 , and the second database 122 to determine the destination of the activation request message ( S110 ).

[0132] like Figure 2 As shown, the application APLs corresponding to the group ID "2" are the first application APL_1, the fourth application APL_4, and the sixth application APL_6. The first electronic control unit ECU_1 executing the first application APL_1 belongs to the network formed by the first communication bus BUS_1. The fourth electronic control unit ECU_4 executing the fourth application APL_4 and the fifth electronic control unit ECU_5 executing the sixth application APL_6 both belong to the network formed by the second communication bus BUS_2. That is, at this time, both the network based on the first communication bus BUS_1 and the network based on the second communication bus BUS_2 are equivalent to networks configured with electronic control units ECU that should be started. Therefore, the processing device 110 sets both the network formed by the first communication bus BUS_1 and the network formed by the second communication bus BUS_2 as the sending targets of the start request message.

[0133] like Fig.12 As indicated by arrows in FIG. 1 , the gateway device 100 transmits a start request message to both the network formed by the first communication bus BUS_1 and the network formed by the second communication bus BUS_2 ( S120 ).

[0134] like Fig.12 As shown, "2" is not assigned as the group ID to the second electronic control unit ECU_2. Therefore, the transceiver 230A of the second electronic control unit ECU_2 that has received the activation request message ignores the activation request message and does not accept it. The second electronic control unit ECU_2 does not activate but remains in the sleep state.

[0135] like Fig.12As shown, "2" is not assigned as the group ID to the third electronic control unit ECU_3. Therefore, the transceiver 230A of the third electronic control unit ECU_3 that has received the activation request message ignores the activation request message and does not accept it. The third electronic control unit ECU_3 does not activate but remains in the sleep state.

[0136] The fourth electronic control unit ECU_4 in the vehicle network system of this embodiment is not suitable for a local network. As described above, the transceiver 230B mounted on the electronic control unit ECU that is not suitable for a local network does not have the function of confirming the frame included in the startup request message to ignore the startup request message for starting other electronic control units ECU. Therefore, the transceiver 230B of the fourth electronic control unit ECU_4 that receives the startup request message accepts the startup request message. As a result, Fig.12 As shown, the fourth electronic control unit ECU_4 is started up and shifted to an active state.

[0137] The fifth electronic control unit ECU_5 is also not suitable for the local network. Therefore, the transceiver 230B of the fifth electronic control unit ECU_5 that has received the start request message also accepts the start request message. As a result, Fig.12 As shown, the fifth electronic control unit ECU_5 is also started up and shifted to the active state.

[0138] In this way, Fig.12 In the case of Example 1 in the present embodiment shown, the first electronic control unit ECU_1, the fourth electronic control unit ECU_4, and the fifth electronic control unit ECU_5, which have the application APL executed to realize the function of the first functional system, are activated. On the other hand, the second electronic control unit ECU_2 and the third electronic control unit ECU_3, which do not have the application APL executed to realize the function of the first functional system, remain in a dormant state.

[0139] <Case 2 in the in-vehicle network system of the present embodiment>

[0140] As described above, Example 2 is an example for explaining the behavior of each electronic control unit ECU when the fourth electronic control unit ECU_4 sends a start request message in order to operate the first functional system. Fig.13 As shown, the fourth electronic control unit ECU_4 sends a start request message to the gateway device 100.

[0141] The fourth electronic control unit ECU_4 in the vehicle network system of this embodiment is not suitable for a local network. The transceiver 230B does not have a function of sending a start request message including information indicating a group ID indicating which functional system is to be started. Fig.13As shown, the activation request message transmitted from the fourth electronic control unit ECU_4 does not include a frame indicating the group ID.

[0142] The gateway device 100 receives the startup request message. The startup request message does not include a frame indicating the group ID. Therefore, the gateway device 100 cannot obtain the group ID (S100). Therefore, the gateway device 100 sets both the network composed of the first communication bus BUS_1 and the network composed of the second communication bus BUS_2 as the sending destination of the startup request message (S110).

[0143] like Fig.13 As indicated by arrows in FIG. 1 , the gateway device 100 transmits a start request message to both the network formed by the first communication bus BUS_1 and the network formed by the second communication bus BUS_2 ( S120 ).

[0144] As described above, the transceiver 230A accepts the activation request message when the activation request message does not include a frame indicating the group ID. The transceiver 230B accepts the activation request message regardless of whether the frame including the group ID is included.

[0145] Therefore, if Fig.13 As shown, in the case of Example 2 in this embodiment, Figure 8 As in the case of Example 2 in Comparative Example 2 shown above, all the electronic control units ECU are activated.

[0146] like Figure 4 As shown, in the case of Example 2 in the first comparative example, the second electronic control unit ECU_2 and the third electronic control unit ECU_3 which do not have the application APL required for the first functional system to operate can be maintained in a dormant state. In contrast, in the case of Example 2 of the comparative example 2, as Figure 8 As shown by the double-dashed line in FIG. 1 , the second electronic control unit ECU_2 and the third electronic control unit ECU_3 are also started and moved to the active state. Fig.13 As shown by the two-dot chain line in the figure, the second electronic control unit ECU_2 and the third electronic control unit ECU_3 are also started up and shifted to the active state.

[0147] <Case 3 in the in-vehicle network system of the present embodiment>

[0148] As described above, Case 3 is an example for explaining the behavior of each electronic control unit ECU when the second electronic control unit ECU_2 transmits the activation request message in order to operate the third functional system.

[0149] like Fig.14As shown, in the case of case 3, the second electronic control unit ECU_2 transmits an activation request message to the gateway device 100. The activation request message includes a frame indicating "4" as the group ID.

[0150] The gateway device 100 receives the activation request message and acquires the group ID ( S100 ). The gateway device 100 refers to the frame included in the received activation request message, the first database 121 , and the second database 122 to determine the destination of the activation request message ( S110 ).

[0151] like Figure 2 As shown, the application APLs corresponding to the group ID "4" are the first application APL_1 and the second application APL_2. The first electronic control unit ECU_1 executing the first application APL_1 belongs to the network formed by the first communication bus BUS_1. The second electronic control unit ECU_2 executing the second application APL_2 also belongs to the network formed by the first communication bus BUS_1. That is, at this time, the network formed by the first communication bus BUS_1 is a network configured with the electronic control unit ECU that should be started. Therefore, the processing unit 110 sets the network formed by the first communication bus BUS_1 as the sending target of the start request message.

[0152] like Fig.14 As indicated by an arrow in FIG. 1 , the gateway device 100 transmits a startup request message only to the network formed by the first communication bus BUS_1 ( S120 ).

[0153] like Fig.14 As shown, "4" is assigned to the first electronic control unit ECU_1 as the group ID. Therefore, the transceiver 230A of the first electronic control unit ECU_1 that has received the activation request message accepts the activation request message. The first electronic control unit ECU_1 is activated and shifts to an active state.

[0154] like Fig.14 As indicated by the dotted line in FIG. 1 , the activation request message is not sent to the network formed by the second communication bus BUS_2 . Therefore, the third electronic control unit ECU_3 , the fourth electronic control unit ECU_4 , and the fifth electronic control unit ECU_5 are not activated but remain in the sleep state.

[0155] In the case of Example 3 of the second comparative example, if Fig. 9As shown by the double-dashed line in the figure, the fourth electronic control unit ECU_4 and the fifth electronic control unit ECU_5 are started and moved to the active state. In contrast, in the case of Example 3 of the present embodiment, the vehicle network system can keep the third electronic control unit ECU_3, the fourth electronic control unit ECU_4 and the fifth electronic control unit ECU_5, which do not need to be started, from being started and maintained in the dormant state.

[0156] <Case 4 in the in-vehicle network system of the present embodiment>

[0157] As described above, Case 4 is an example for explaining the behavior of each electronic control unit ECU when the third electronic control unit ECU_3 transmits the activation request message in order to operate the second functional system.

[0158] like Fig.15 As shown, in the case of case 4, the third electronic control unit ECU_3 transmits an activation request message to the gateway device 100. The activation request message includes a frame indicating "3" as the group ID.

[0159] The gateway device 100 receives the activation request message and acquires the group ID ( S100 ). The gateway device 100 refers to the frame included in the received activation request message, the first database 121 , and the second database 122 to determine the destination of the activation request message ( S110 ).

[0160] like Figure 2 As shown, the application APLs corresponding to the group ID "3" are the third application APL_3 and the sixth application APL_6. The third electronic control unit ECU_3 executing the third application APL_3 belongs to the network formed by the second communication bus BUS_2. The fifth electronic control unit ECU_5 executing the sixth application APL_6 also belongs to the network formed by the second communication bus BUS_2. That is, at this time, the network formed by the second communication bus BUS_2 is a network configured with the electronic control unit ECU that should be started. Therefore, the processing unit 110 sets the network formed by the second communication bus BUS_2 as the sending target of the start request message.

[0161] like Fig.15 As indicated by the arrow in FIG. 1 , the gateway device 100 transmits a startup request message only to the network formed by the second communication bus BUS_2 ( S120 ).

[0162] Since the transceiver 230B accepts the start request message, Fig.10 As shown, the fourth electronic control unit ECU_4 and the fifth electronic control unit ECU_5 which have received the start request message are started up and shifted to the active state.

[0163] like Fig.15 As indicated by the dotted line in FIG. 1 , the activation request message is not sent to the network formed by the first communication bus BUS_1 . Therefore, the first electronic control unit ECU_1 and the second electronic control unit ECU_2 are not activated and remain in the sleep state.

[0164] like Figure 6 As shown, in the case of Example 4 in the first comparative example, the electronic control unit ECU that does not have the application APL executed to realize the function of the second functional system can be maintained in a dormant state. That is, in Comparative Example 1, the first electronic control unit ECU_1, the second electronic control unit ECU_2, and the fourth electronic control unit ECU_4 can be maintained in a dormant state. In contrast, in the case of Example 4 in the second comparative example, as Fig.10 As shown by the double-dashed line in FIG. 1 , the fourth electronic control unit ECU_4 is started and shifted to the active state. Fig.15 As shown by the two-dot chain line in the figure, the fourth electronic control unit ECU_4 is also started up and shifted to the active state.

[0165] <Effects of the present embodiment>

[0166] (1) The vehicle network system of the present embodiment is a vehicle network system that performs communication based on the CAN protocol. In the case of the CAN protocol, the electronic control unit ECU suitable for the local network ignores the start request message when the received start request message does not include a frame requesting the start of the electronic control unit ECU. That is, the electronic control unit ECU maintains a sleep state. On the other hand, the electronic control unit ECU not suitable for the local network does not have the function of ignoring the start request message. Therefore, regardless of whether the received start request message includes a frame requesting the start of the electronic control unit ECU, the electronic control unit ECU not suitable for the local network is started from the sleep state and moves to the active state.

[0167] In contrast, in the vehicle network system of the present embodiment, the processing device 110 of the gateway device 100 determines the sending target of the start request message with reference to the frame included in the start request message. The gateway device 100 does not send a start request message to a network that is not configured with an electronic control unit ECU to be started, but sends a start request message to a network that is configured with an electronic control unit ECU that should be started. As a result, the vehicle network system of the present embodiment can suppress the startup of an electronic control unit ECU that is not suitable for a local network and is located on a network that is not configured with an electronic control unit ECU that should be started. For example, as shown in FIG. Fig.14 As in the case 3 described above, it is possible to suppress the activation of the electronic control unit ECU that is not suitable for the local network.

[0168] (2) Even if an electronic control unit ECU is added to any network, the in-vehicle network system of the above-described embodiment can cope with changes in the configuration of the network by updating the second database 122 .

[0169] (3) Even if a functional system is added and an application APL executed by the electronic control unit ECU is added, the in-vehicle network system of the above embodiment can cope with the addition of the application APL by updating the first database 121 .

[0170] (4) Each ECU includes a timer 220 that counts up when the ECU is in the active state and resets the count when the ECU receives an activation request message. The ECU shifts to the sleep state when the count reaches a predetermined value.

[0171] In the vehicle network system composed of the electronic control unit ECU having the timer 220 as described above, if the electronic control unit ECU receives a start request message, the count value is reset. The electronic control unit ECU not suitable for the local network does not have a structure to ignore the start request message. Therefore, if the electronic control unit ECU not suitable for the local network is started and moved to the active state, the count value is reset every time the start request message is received, and it is difficult to move to the sleep state.

[0172] In the vehicle network system of this embodiment, a startup request message is not sent to a network where an electronic control unit ECU to be started is not configured. Therefore, the count value of the timer 220 of the electronic control unit ECU that is not suitable for the local network can be suppressed from being reset due to the startup request message for starting other electronic control units ECU. Therefore, the vehicle network system of this embodiment can ensure the opportunity for the electronic control unit ECU that is not suitable for the local network to move to the sleep state and reduce power consumption.

[0173] (5) The gateway device 100 is applied to the following in-vehicle network system: a network that constitutes several electronic control units ECU that are interconnected via one of a plurality of communication buses BUS, and the plurality of electronic control units ECU communicate with each other via the gateway device 100 in accordance with the CAN protocol. The gateway device 100 connects the plurality of networks to relay the communication between the plurality of electronic control units ECU. The gateway device 100 includes a processing device 110. When the gateway device 100 receives a startup request message including a frame for determining the electronic control unit ECU that should be started, the processing device 110 determines the sending target of the startup request message with reference to the frame included in the startup request message. The processing device 110 determines the sending target of the startup request message in a manner that the startup request message is not sent to a network that is not configured with the electronic control unit ECU that should be started, but is sent to a network that is configured with the electronic control unit ECU that should be started.

[0174] Therefore, if the gateway device 100 is applied to such an in-vehicle network system, even if the configuration is different from that of the in-vehicle network system of the above-mentioned embodiment, it is possible to suppress the startup of an electronic control unit ECU that is not suitable for a local network, as in the in-vehicle network system of the above-mentioned embodiment. That is, the gateway device 100 can suppress the startup of an electronic control unit ECU that is not suitable for a local network and reduce the power consumption of the in-vehicle network system.

[0175] (6) The communication method in the vehicle-mounted network system of the present embodiment includes the following first to third steps.

[0176] Step 1 is equivalent to Fig.11 The first step is a step in which the gateway device 100 receives, from the electronic control unit ECU, an activation request message including a frame for specifying the electronic control unit ECU to be activated.

[0177] Step 2 is equivalent to Fig.11 The first step is step S110 in the flowchart. The second step is a step in which the gateway device 100 determines the sending target of the start request message with reference to the frame included in the received start request message. In the second step, the gateway device 100 determines the sending target in a manner that the start request message is not sent to a network that does not have an electronic control unit ECU that should be started, but is sent to a network that has an electronic control unit ECU that should be started.

[0178] The third step is a step in which the gateway device 100 transmits the activation request message only to the above-mentioned network as the transmission destination determined in the second step.

[0179] According to this communication method, it is possible to suppress the activation of an electronic control unit ECU that is not suitable for a local network.

[0180] <Change Example>

[0181] This embodiment can be implemented by being modified as follows. This embodiment and the following modified examples can be implemented in combination with each other within the range that there is no technical contradiction.

[0182] The first database 121 and the second database 122 are not limited to those exemplified in the above-mentioned embodiment. For example, the storage device 120 of the gateway device 100 may store the following first database 121 and second database 122 .

[0183] The first database 121 in the modified example is a database that shows the correspondence between a combination of a plurality of electronic control units ECU that are operated simultaneously, that is, a plurality of groups and the electronic control units ECU belonging to each group. Fig.16 The information shown in the part surrounded by dotted lines.

[0184] The second database 122 in the modified example is a database that indicates the correspondence between a plurality of networks and the electronic control units ECU belonging to each network. Fig.16 The information shown in the part surrounded by a solid line.

[0185] In the in-vehicle network system of the modified example, the processing device 110 refers to the frame included in the activation request message, the first database 121 , and the second database 122 to determine the destination of the activation request message.

[0186] According to the in-vehicle network system of this modified example, each electronic control unit ECU is also connected to the reference Figure 12 to Figure 15 Therefore, the in-vehicle network system of this modified example can also obtain the same effects as those of the above-mentioned embodiment.

[0187] · An embodiment is illustrated in which each electronic control unit ECU includes a timer 220 and each electronic control unit ECU shifts to a sleep state when a count value controlled by the timer 220 reaches a predetermined value. The condition for each electronic control unit ECU to shift to a sleep state is not limited to such a condition. Therefore, each electronic control unit ECU may not include a timer 220.

[0188] The processing device 110 may include: 1) a processing circuit including one or more processors that execute various processes according to a computer program (software); 2) a processing circuit including one or more dedicated hardware circuits such as an integrated circuit (ASIC) for a specific purpose that executes at least a part of the various processes; or 3) a processing circuit including a combination thereof. The processor includes a CPU and a memory such as a RAM and a ROM. The memory stores program codes or instructions configured to cause the CPU to execute a process. The memory, i.e., the computer-readable medium, includes all available media that can be accessed by a general-purpose or special-purpose computer.

Claims

1. A vehicle network system comprising: a plurality of networks, each network including a plurality of electronic control devices and a communication bus interconnecting the plurality of electronic control devices; and a gateway device for connecting the plurality of networks and configured to enable the plurality of electronic control devices to communicate with each other according to the CAN protocol; in, The gateway device comprises a processing device, The processing device is configured to determine a destination of the activation request message when the gateway device receives the activation request message including a frame for identifying the electronic control device to be activated. The processing device is configured to determine the sending target of the startup request message with reference to the frame included in the startup request message, so that the gateway device does not send the startup request message to the network that does not include the electronic control device that should be started, but sends the startup request message to the network that includes the electronic control device that should be started.

2. The in-vehicle network system according to claim 1, wherein: Each of the plurality of electronic control devices includes at least one of the plurality of applications, and two or more of the plurality of applications are combined and executed simultaneously in order to realize each of the plurality of functions. The gateway device comprises a storage device, The storage device stores a first database and a second database, The first database indicates a correspondence between a plurality of groups and the applications belonging to each group, each group being a combination of two or more applications executed simultaneously. The second database indicates a correspondence between the plurality of networks and the applications executed by the electronic control devices belonging to the respective networks. The frame included in the launch request message indicates the group of applications that should be executed, The processing device is configured to refer to the frame included in the activation request message, the first database, and the second database to determine the transmission destination of the activation request message, and to identify the network that does not include the electronic control device to be activated.

3. The in-vehicle network system according to claim 1, wherein: The gateway device comprises a storage device, The storage device stores a first database and a second database, The first database indicates a correspondence between a plurality of groups and the electronic control devices belonging to each group, each group being a combination of a plurality of the electronic control devices that are operated simultaneously. The second database indicates a correspondence between the plurality of networks and the electronic control devices belonging to each network. The frame included in the activation request message indicates the group of the electronic control devices that should be activated, The processing device is configured to refer to the frame included in the activation request message, the first database, and the second database to determine the transmission destination of the activation request message, and to identify the network that does not include the electronic control device to be activated.

4. The in-vehicle network system according to claim 1, wherein: Each electronic control device includes a timer configured to count up a count value when the electronic control device is in an activated state, and to reset the count value when the electronic control device receives the activation request message. The electronic control device is configured to shift to a sleep state when the count value reaches a predetermined value.

5. A gateway device is applied to a vehicle network system, wherein: The vehicle network system includes a plurality of networks connected to the gateway device, each network including a plurality of electronic control devices and a communication bus interconnecting the plurality of electronic control devices. The gateway device is configured to relay communication between the plurality of electronic control devices so that the plurality of electronic control devices can communicate with each other according to a CAN protocol. The gateway device comprises a processing device, The processing device is configured to determine a destination of the activation request message when the gateway device receives the activation request message including a frame for identifying the electronic control device to be activated. The processing device is configured to determine the sending target of the startup request message with reference to the frame included in the startup request message, so that the gateway device does not send the startup request message to the network that does not include the electronic control device that should be started, but sends the startup request message to the network that includes the electronic control device that should be started.

6. A communication method, which is a communication method in an in-vehicle network system, the in-vehicle network system comprising: a plurality of networks, each network including a plurality of electronic control devices and a communication bus interconnecting the plurality of electronic control devices; and a gateway device for connecting the plurality of networks and configured to relay the communication between the plurality of electronic control devices so that the plurality of electronic control devices can communicate with each other according to the CAN protocol, in, The communication method comprises: The gateway device receives, from at least one of the electronic control devices, an activation request message including a frame for identifying the electronic control device to be activated; The gateway device refers to the frame included in the received activation request message to determine the transmission destination of the activation request message in such a manner that the activation request message is not transmitted to the network that does not include the electronic control device that should be activated, but the activation request message is transmitted to the network that includes the electronic control device that should be activated; and The gateway device transmits the activation request message only to the determined network as the transmission destination.

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