Power supply system, control device, and non-transitory storage medium

Abstract

The invention relates to a power supply system, a control device, and a non-transitory storage medium. The power supply system comprises a solar panel, a solar converter, an auxiliary unit, a battery, a bidirectional converter and a control device. The control device is configured to control the bidirectional converter. The control device is configured to execute specific control during a period in which the variation condition is satisfied. The variation condition indicates that at least one of the output power of the solar panel and the power consumption of the auxiliary unit has a large variation. The specific control is configured to control one or more selected from the solar converter, the auxiliary unit, and the bidirectional converter so as to maintain the magnitude relationship between the output power of the solar converter and the power consumption of the auxiliary unit to be the same.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a power supply system, a control device, and a non-transitory storage medium. Background Art

[0002] The vehicle disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2021-083248 includes solar panels, auxiliary machinery, a driving battery, and a control device. The auxiliary machinery receives power generated by the solar panels. The driving battery is a high-voltage battery that supplies power to the vehicle's drive source. The driving battery is located on a branch path that branches off from the power supply path from the solar panels to the auxiliary machinery. When the solar panels generate a large amount of power, the control device switches the power supply path so that the power generated by the solar panels is supplied not only to the auxiliary machinery but also to the driving battery.

[0003] In a technique such as Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2021-083248, a bidirectional converter capable of switching the direction of power supply is sometimes used just before reaching the driving battery in the branch path mentioned above. Moreover, the bidirectional converter is sometimes controlled as follows based on the magnitude of the power generated by the solar panel and the power consumed by the auxiliary machine. That is, when the power generated by the solar panel is in excess of the power consumed by the auxiliary machine, the power generated by the solar panel is supplied to the driving battery. On the other hand, when the power generated by the solar panel is insufficient relative to the power consumed by the auxiliary machine, power is supplied from the driving battery to the auxiliary machine. When such a control method is adopted, it is possible that the magnitude relationship between the power generated by the solar panel and the power consumed by the auxiliary machine changes frequently due to fluctuations in the power generated by the solar panel or the power consumed by the auxiliary machine. In this case, since the power supply direction of the bidirectional converter is frequently switched, a burden is placed on the bidirectional converter. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The first embodiment of the present disclosure is a power supply system. The power supply system includes: a solar panel; a solar converter capable of converting the power output by the solar panel and outputting the power; an auxiliary unit receiving the power output by the solar converter; a bidirectional converter capable of converting the voltage of the power output by the battery and supplying the power to the auxiliary unit, and capable of converting the voltage of the power output by the solar converter and supplying the power to the battery; and a control device configured to control the solar converter, the auxiliary unit, and the bidirectional converter. As a switching control, the control device is configured to control the bidirectional converter so that the power is directed from the solar converter to the battery when a first condition is satisfied, and to control the bidirectional converter so that the power is directed from the battery to the auxiliary unit when a second condition is satisfied.

[0005] The first condition is that the power output by the solar power converter is greater than the power consumed by the auxiliary unit. The second condition is that the power output by the solar power converter is less than the power consumed by the auxiliary unit. During the period in which the variation condition is satisfied, the control device is configured to perform specific control. The variation condition is a condition predetermined as a condition indicating a large variation in at least one of the power output by the solar panel and the power consumed by the auxiliary unit. The specific control is configured to control one or more selected from the solar power converter, the auxiliary unit, and the bidirectional converter so as to maintain the same magnitude relationship between the power output by the solar power converter and the power consumed by the auxiliary unit.

[0006] In the power supply system according to the first aspect of the present disclosure, the fluctuation condition may be a condition that a difference between a maximum value and a minimum value of the power consumed by the auxiliary unit in a unit period is equal to or greater than a predetermined value.

[0007] The power supply system according to the first aspect of the present disclosure may include: a second battery capable of charging and discharging the power output by the solar inverter; and a temperature sensor configured to detect the temperature of the second battery. The battery may be the first battery. The control device may be configured to execute the specific control based on the requirement that the temperature of the second battery is outside a predetermined range.

[0008] In the power supply system according to the first aspect of the present disclosure, when the first condition is satisfied at a predetermined timing, the control device may control the bidirectional converter during the specific control so that the power supplied from the bidirectional converter to the battery is smaller than when the variation condition is not satisfied. The predetermined timing may be a timing when the state switches from not satisfying the variation condition to satisfying the variation condition.

[0009] In the power supply system according to the first aspect of the present disclosure, when the first condition is satisfied at a predetermined timing, the auxiliary unit may be controlled in the specific control so that power consumption of the auxiliary unit is reduced compared to a state in which the change condition is not satisfied. The predetermined timing is a timing at which the state switches from not satisfying the change condition to satisfying the change condition.

[0010] In the power supply system according to the first aspect of the present disclosure, when the second condition is satisfied at a predetermined timing, the control device may control the solar power converter during the specific control so that the power output by the solar power converter is lower than when the variation condition is not satisfied. The predetermined timing may be a timing when the state switches from not satisfying the variation condition to satisfying the variation condition.

[0011] In the power supply system according to the first aspect of the present disclosure, when the second condition is satisfied at a predetermined timing, the auxiliary unit may be controlled during the specific control so that the power consumed by the auxiliary unit is greater than in a state where the change condition is not satisfied. The predetermined timing may be a timing at which the state switches from not satisfying the change condition to satisfying the change condition.

[0012] A second aspect of the present disclosure is a control device configured to control a solar power converter, an auxiliary unit, and a bidirectional converter by having a processor execute commands stored in a storage medium. The control device includes the processor. The control device is configured to apply the control to a vehicle. The vehicle includes: a solar panel; a solar power converter capable of converting and outputting power output by the solar panel; an auxiliary unit receiving power from the solar power converter; a battery; and a bidirectional converter capable of converting the voltage of power output by the battery and supplying the power to the auxiliary unit, and also capable of converting the voltage of power output by the solar power converter and supplying the power to the battery. As switching control, the control device is configured to control the bidirectional converter to direct power from the solar power converter to the battery when the power output by the solar power converter is greater than the power consumed by the auxiliary unit, and to control the bidirectional converter to direct power from the battery to the auxiliary unit when the power output by the solar power converter is less than the power consumed by the auxiliary unit. The control device is configured to execute specific control while a change condition is satisfied. The fluctuation condition is a condition predetermined to indicate a significant fluctuation in at least one of the output power of the solar panel and the power consumed by the auxiliary equipment group. The specific control is configured to control one or more selected from the solar power converter, the auxiliary equipment group, and the bidirectional converter so as to maintain a constant magnitude relationship between the power output by the solar power converter and the power consumed by the auxiliary equipment group.

[0013] A third aspect of the present disclosure is a non-transitory storage medium storing instructions executable by one or more processors, which cause the one or more processors of a control device to perform the following functions. These functions include: executing switching control to control the bidirectional converter to direct power from the solar converter to a battery when the power output by the solar converter is greater than the power consumed by the auxiliary machinery; and controlling the bidirectional converter to direct power from the battery to the auxiliary machinery when the power output by the solar converter is less than the power consumed by the auxiliary machinery; and executing specific control while a fluctuation condition is satisfied. The fluctuation condition is a predetermined condition indicating a significant fluctuation in at least one of the power output by the solar panel and the power consumed by the auxiliary machinery. The specific control is control of one or more selected from the solar converter, the auxiliary machinery, and the bidirectional converter to maintain a constant magnitude relationship between the power output by the solar converter and the power consumed by the auxiliary machinery. These functions are applicable to vehicles. The vehicle comprises: the solar panel; the solar converter, which is capable of converting the electric power outputted by the solar panel and outputting the electric power; the auxiliary unit, which receives the electric power outputted by the solar converter; the battery; the bidirectional converter, which is capable of converting the voltage of the electric power outputted by the battery and supplying the electric power to the auxiliary unit, and is capable of converting the voltage of the electric power outputted by the solar converter and supplying the electric power to the battery; and the control device, which is configured to control the solar converter, the auxiliary unit and the bidirectional converter.

[0014] According to the above-mentioned technical concepts, the burden on the bidirectional converter can be suppressed. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0015] Hereinafter, features, advantages, technical and industrial significance of exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals represent like elements, and in which:

[0016] Figure 1 It is a diagram schematically showing the general structure of a vehicle.

[0017] Figure 2 This is a flowchart showing a processing routine executed by the control device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0018] Hereinafter, one embodiment of a power supply system, a vehicle control device, and a vehicle program will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0019] Overall Structure

[0020] like Figure 1 As shown, the vehicle 10 includes a power supply system 10A. The power supply system 10A includes a first battery 60 , a second battery 40 , a solar panel 20 , a solar converter 30 , a bidirectional converter 50 , and an auxiliary unit 70 .

[0021] The first battery 60 is a secondary battery. The first battery 60 is a high-voltage battery for driving the vehicle 10. The first battery 60 supplies power to one or more motors for driving the vehicle 10. The rated voltage of the first battery 60 is, for example, approximately 200 to 250 V.

[0022] The second battery 40 is a secondary battery. The second battery 40 is a battery for the auxiliary unit 70. The rated voltage of the second battery 40 is lower than that of the first battery 60. The rated voltage of the second battery 40 is, for example, approximately 12 [V] to 48 [V].

[0023] The solar panel 20 is a panel-shaped structure in which a plurality of solar cells that generate electricity by being irradiated with sunlight are arranged. The solar panel 20 is installed on the roof of the vehicle 10, for example.

[0024] The solar power converter 30 is electrically connected to the solar panel 20. The solar power converter 30 is a circuit that converts the voltage of the DC power input from the solar panel 20 and outputs the converted DC power. The solar power converter 30 sometimes steps down the voltage of the output power of the solar panel 20 and sometimes steps up the voltage of the output power of the solar panel 20.

[0025] The auxiliary machine group 70 is a group of multiple auxiliary machines 71. Figure 1 1 represents one of the plurality of auxiliary machines 71. The auxiliary machine 71 will be described in detail later. The auxiliary machine group 70 is electrically connected to the solar power converter 30. The auxiliary machine group 70 receives the output power of the solar power converter 30.

[0026] The power path from the solar panel 20 through the solar power converter 30 to the auxiliary unit 70 is referred to as the first path L1. The first battery 60 is located on the second path L2, which branches off from the first path L1. The second battery 40 is located on the third path L3, which branches off from the first path L1. Specifically, the second battery 40 is electrically connected to both the solar power converter 30 and the auxiliary unit 70. The second battery 40 can charge the output power of the solar power converter 30. The second battery 40 can also discharge its stored power to the auxiliary unit 70.

[0027] The bidirectional converter 50 is located midway along the second path L2. That is, the bidirectional converter 50 is electrically connected to both the solar power converter 30 and the auxiliary unit 70. Furthermore, the bidirectional converter 50 is also electrically connected to the first battery 60. The bidirectional converter 50 is a circuit that converts the voltage of DC power input to itself and outputs it. Furthermore, the bidirectional converter 50 is a circuit that can switch the direction of power supply. The bidirectional converter 50 can convert the voltage of the output power of the solar power converter 30 and supply it to the first battery 60. Specifically, the bidirectional converter 50 can boost the voltage of the output power of the solar power converter 30 and supply it to the first battery 60. Furthermore, the bidirectional converter 50 can convert the voltage of the output power of the first battery 60 and supply it to the auxiliary unit 70. Specifically, the bidirectional converter 50 can step down the voltage of the output power of the first battery 60 and supply it to the auxiliary unit 70.

[0028] <Auxiliary equipment>

[0029] The auxiliary machine 71 is a device that does not require a voltage as high as the output voltage of the first battery 60 when operating. The auxiliary machine 71 includes an auxiliary machine ECU 71A and a target device 71B that operates in response to a command signal from the auxiliary machine ECU 71A. An example of the auxiliary machine 71 is an electric power steering device that adjusts the steering angle of the steering wheels of the vehicle 10. Other examples of the auxiliary machine 71 include a display device, an audio device, an air conditioning device, lighting devices such as interior lights and headlights, a wiper device, and peripheral monitoring devices such as cameras and radar. Furthermore, depending on the type of auxiliary machine 71, some may include an input device, such as an input switch, for the user to instruct the operation of the auxiliary machine 71. The input device outputs a signal corresponding to the user's operation to the control device 90, which will be described later.

[0030] The auxiliary ECU 71A is a computer equipped with a processing circuit. The processing circuit includes a CPU and memory. The memory pre-stores various programs describing the processes to be performed by the CPU and various data required for the CPU to execute the programs. The auxiliary ECU 71A controls the target device 71B based on command signals from the control device 90, described later. The auxiliary ECU 71A switches between a sleep state and an active state. The sleep state is a state in which various processes are stopped and the system awaits an activation command from the control device 90. In the sleep state, the auxiliary ECU 71A consumes less power per unit time than in the active state. The auxiliary ECU 71A controls the target device 71B while in the active state. Some auxiliary ECUs 71A can cause the target device 71B to operate in different power modes. The power modes include normal power mode and power saving mode. In power saving mode, the target device 71B consumes less power per unit time than in normal power mode. Hereinafter, the auxiliary machines 71 in the auxiliary machine group 70 that can switch power modes are referred to as switchable auxiliary machines.

[0031] Some of the auxiliary devices 71 are various sensors. Examples of the various sensors are the first sensor 101, the second sensors 102, and the temperature sensor 103. Figure 1 In the figure, one of the plurality of second sensors 102 is representatively shown. The first sensor 101 repeatedly detects the output current and output voltage of the solar converter 30 according to a predetermined detection cycle. A second sensor 102 is provided for each auxiliary machine 71. The second sensor 102 repeatedly detects the current flowing to the auxiliary machine 71 as the target and the voltage applied to the auxiliary machine 71 as the target according to a predetermined detection cycle. The temperature sensor 103 repeatedly detects the temperature of the second battery 40 according to a predetermined detection cycle. Among them, there are various other sensors as sensors of the auxiliary machine 71. An example of another sensor is a sensor that detects the steering angle of the steering wheel. Various sensors repeatedly output signals corresponding to the information detected by themselves to the control device 90 described later.

[0032] <Control device>

[0033] The power supply system 10A includes a control device 90. The control device 90 is a computer including a processing circuit. The processing circuit includes a CPU 91 and a memory 92. The memory 92 pre-stores various programs W for the vehicle that describe the processing to be performed by the CPU 91, and various data required for the CPU 91 to execute the programs W. The control device 90 obtains signals from the various sensors and input devices mentioned above at any time. The control device 90 calculates the necessary parameters based on the obtained information. For example, the control device 90 calculates the output power of the solar power converter 30 based on the detection signal of the first sensor 101. In addition, the control device 90 calculates the power consumption of the auxiliary unit 70 based on the detection signals of the plurality of second sensors 102. The power consumption of the auxiliary unit 70 refers to the sum of the power consumption of all the auxiliary units 71. The control device 90 repeatedly calculates the output power of these solar power converters 30 and the power consumption of the auxiliary unit 70 according to a predetermined calculation cycle.

[0034] The control device 90 controls the solar energy converter 30, the bidirectional converter 50, and the auxiliary unit 70 by having the CPU 91 execute a program W stored in the memory 92. When controlling the solar energy converter 30, the bidirectional converter 50, and the auxiliary unit 70, the control device 90 basically performs the dedicated basic control described below.

[0035] Basic control for solar converters

[0036] First, the PV characteristic line, which forms the premise for basic control of the solar power converter 30, will be explained. Consider an orthogonal coordinate system with the output voltage of the solar power converter 30 as the X-axis and the output power of the solar power converter 30 as the Y-axis. In this orthogonal coordinate system, the line representing the correspondence between the output voltage and output power of the solar power converter 30, which can be achieved by the solar power converter 30 based on the current power generation status of the solar panel 20, is the PV characteristic line. The PV characteristic line generally follows a parabolic distribution. Specifically, the PV characteristic line has a maximum point where the output power of the solar power converter 30 transitions from increasing to decreasing as the output voltage of the solar power converter 30 increases. The output power at this maximum point is referred to as the maximum power. In basic control of the solar power converter 30, the control device 90 controls the solar power converter 30 so that its output power reaches the maximum power. Specifically, the control device 90 detects the output voltage that currently produces the maximum power at a predetermined period, such as one minute. The control device 90 then controls the solar power converter 30 for a predetermined period so that it outputs this output voltage, and thus the maximum power. The control device 90 repeatedly detects the maximum power and controls the solar energy converter 30 according to the detection result.

[0037] <Basic control for bidirectional converters>

[0038] The basic control for the bidirectional converter 50 is related to the output voltage of the bidirectional converter 50. In this basic control, when the power supplied by the bidirectional converter 50 is to the first battery 60, the control device 90 boosts the output voltage of the solar power converter 30 to a voltage approximately equal to the rated voltage of the first battery 60 and outputs the voltage to the first battery 60. On the other hand, when the power supplied by the bidirectional converter 50 is to the auxiliary unit 70, the control device 90 steps down the output voltage of the first battery 60 to a voltage approximately equal to the rated voltage of the second battery 40 and outputs the voltage to the auxiliary unit 70.

[0039] <Basic control for auxiliary equipment>

[0040] The control device 90 can determine the currently requested auxiliary machine 71 and the designated power mode based on signals from various input devices and sensors. In basic control of the auxiliary machines 71, the control device 90 controls the currently requested auxiliary machine 71 using the designated power mode. The control device 90 actually controls each auxiliary machine 71 by outputting a command signal to the currently requested auxiliary machine 71. However, detailed descriptions of the output of command signals by the control device 90 when controlling each auxiliary machine 71 will be omitted.

[0041] <Switching control for bidirectional converters>

[0042] The control device 90 constantly performs switching control when controlling the bidirectional converter 50. Switching control is used to switch the direction of power supply from the bidirectional converter 50. During switching control, the control device 90 switches the direction of power supply from the bidirectional converter 50 based on the current magnitude relationship between the output power of the solar power converter 30 and the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70. When the output power of the solar power converter 30 is greater than the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70, the control device 90 controls the bidirectional converter 50 so that power is transferred from the solar power converter 30 to the first battery 60. On the other hand, when the output power of the solar power converter 30 is less than the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70, the control device 90 controls the bidirectional converter 50 so that power is transferred from the first battery 60 to the auxiliary machinery group 70.

[0043] <Specific Control>

[0044] The control device 90 can perform specific control independently of the basic control for each device. The control device 90 performs specific control during periods when predetermined fluctuation conditions are met. While performing specific control, the control device 90 interrupts basic control for the solar power converter 30 or the auxiliary equipment 71 as needed. However, even during periods when fluctuation conditions are met, the control device 90 continues switching control and basic control for the bidirectional converter 50. The fluctuation condition in this embodiment is predetermined to indicate significant fluctuations in the power consumption of the auxiliary equipment group 70. Specifically, the fluctuation condition is that the difference between the maximum and minimum power consumption of the auxiliary equipment group 70 within a unit period is greater than a predetermined value. The unit period is predetermined. For example, a unit period can be several seconds. The predetermined value is also predetermined. The predetermined value is determined to indicate that the power consumption of the auxiliary equipment group 70 is so high that the relationship between the output power of the solar power converter 30 and the power consumption of the auxiliary equipment group 70 changes. The control device 90 pre-stores the unit period and the predetermined value.

[0045] During the specific control, the control device 90 controls the solar power converter 30, the auxiliary unit 70, and the bidirectional converter 50 so as to maintain the same magnitude relationship between the output power of the solar power converter 30 and the power consumption of the auxiliary unit 70. In this embodiment, the control device 90 executes the specific control with the temperature of the second battery 40 being outside a specified range as a prerequisite. The specified range is predetermined as a temperature range within which the charge and discharge performance of the second battery 40 does not deteriorate. The control device 90 pre-stores a permissible lower limit value as the lower limit of the specified range and a permissible upper limit value as the upper limit of the specified range. For example, the permissible lower limit value can be a temperature below freezing. For example, the permissible upper limit value can be a temperature above 50 degrees Celsius.

[0046] There are first and second specific controls. When the output power of the solar power converter 30 exceeds the power consumption of the auxiliary equipment 70 at the time of switching from a state where the change conditions are not satisfied to a state where the change conditions are satisfied, the control device 90 performs the first specific control. The first specific control is used to maintain the state where the output power of the solar power converter 30 exceeds the power consumption of the auxiliary equipment 70. On the other hand, when the output power of the solar power converter 30 falls below the power consumption of the auxiliary equipment 70 at the time of switching from a state where the change conditions are not satisfied to a state where the change conditions are satisfied, the control device 90 performs the second specific control. The second specific control is used to maintain the state where the output power of the solar power converter 30 falls below the power consumption of the auxiliary equipment 70.

[0047] The first specific control includes the first specific control for the bidirectional converter 50 and the first specific control for the auxiliary equipment 71. During the first specific control for the bidirectional converter 50, the control device 90 controls the bidirectional converter 50 to maintain the output voltage control associated with the basic control for the bidirectional converter 50 described above, while reducing the power supplied from the bidirectional converter 50 to the first battery 60 compared to a state where the fluctuation condition is not satisfied. During the first specific control for the auxiliary equipment 71, the control device 90 controls the auxiliary equipment group 70 to reduce the power consumption of the auxiliary equipment group 70 compared to a state where the fluctuation condition is not satisfied. Specifically, during the execution of the first specific control for the bidirectional converter 50, the power supplied from the bidirectional converter 50 to the first battery 60 is reduced compared to a state where the first specific control for the bidirectional converter 50 is not executed. Furthermore, during the execution of the first specific control for the auxiliary equipment 71, the power consumption of the auxiliary equipment group 70 is reduced compared to a state where the basic control for the auxiliary equipment 71 described above is executed.

[0048] The second specific control includes the second specific control for the solar power converter 30 and the second specific control for the auxiliary equipment 71. In the second specific control for the solar power converter 30, the control device 90 controls the solar power converter 30 so that the output power of the solar power converter 30 is lower than when the fluctuation condition is not satisfied. In the second specific control for the auxiliary equipment 71, the control device 90 controls the auxiliary equipment group 70 so that the power consumption of the auxiliary equipment group 70 is higher than when the fluctuation condition is not satisfied. In other words, during the execution of the second specific control for the solar power converter 30, the output power of the solar power converter 30 is lower than during the execution of the basic control for the solar power converter 30 described above. Furthermore, during the execution of the second specific control for the auxiliary equipment 71, the power consumption of the auxiliary equipment group 70 is higher than when the basic control for the auxiliary equipment 71 described above is executed.

[0049] <Processing routine>

[0050] The control device 90 repeatedly performs a series of processing routines described below by executing program W. Thus, the control device 90 performs specific control as needed. This processing routine is repeatedly executed while the control device 90 is being driven. Therefore, even when the vehicle 10 is stopped or parked, as long as sufficient power is supplied to the control device 90 to drive it, the following series of processing routines are repeatedly executed.

[0051] like Figure 2 As shown, when the control device 90 starts the processing routine, it first executes the processing of step S10. In step S10, the control device 90 determines whether the change condition is satisfied. Specifically, the control device 90 monitors the change in power consumption of the auxiliary unit 70 until a unit period has passed since the start of the processing of step S10. Furthermore, the control device 90 determines the maximum and minimum values of the power consumption in the unit period. Furthermore, the control device 90 determines whether the value obtained by subtracting the minimum value from the maximum value, that is, the difference, is greater than a specified value. If the difference is less than the specified value, the control device 90 determines that the change condition is not satisfied (step S10: No). In this case, the control device 90 executes the processing of step S10 again. The control device 90 repeats the processing of step S10 until the difference becomes greater than the specified value, that is, until the change condition is satisfied. If the change condition is satisfied (step S10: Yes), the control device 90 advances the processing to step S20. The situation where the determination of step S10 becomes “YES” is a situation where the state switches from a state that does not satisfy the change condition to a state that satisfies the change condition.

[0052] In step S20, the control device 90 determines whether the temperature of the second battery 40 is outside a predetermined range. The control device 90 compares the latest temperature value of the second battery 40 with the allowable lower limit value and the allowable upper limit value. If the temperature of the second battery 40 is above the allowable lower limit value and below the allowable upper limit value (step S20: No), the control device 90 returns to the process of step S10.

[0053] On the other hand, if the temperature of the second battery 40 is lower than the permissible lower limit or higher than the permissible upper limit (step S20: YES), the control device 90 advances the process to step S30. If the determination in step S20 is YES, the necessary conditions for executing the specific control are met.

[0054] In step S30, the control device 90 determines whether the output power of the solar power converter 30 is greater than the power consumption of the auxiliary unit 70. The control device 90 compares the latest value of the output power of the solar power converter 30 with the latest value of the power consumption of the auxiliary unit 70. At the time of step S30, the control device 90 performs basic control of the solar power converter 30. Therefore, the output power of the solar power converter 30 at that moment is the maximum power of the PV characteristic line at that moment. If the output power of the solar power converter 30 is greater than the power consumption of the auxiliary unit 70 (step S30: Yes), the control device 90 proceeds to step S40. After the determination of step S10 is "Yes," the control device 90 promptly performs the processing of step S20 and this step S30. In other words, the timing at which the control device 90 performs this step S30 corresponds to the time when the state that does not satisfy the change condition switches to the state that satisfies the change condition.

[0055] In step S40, the control device 90 starts the first specific control for the bidirectional converter 50. When the process proceeds to step S40, the power supplied to the bidirectional converter 50 is supplied to the first battery 60 to accommodate the switching control for the bidirectional converter 50. During the first specific control for the bidirectional converter 50, the control device 90 controls the bidirectional converter 50 so that the power supplied from the bidirectional converter 50 to the first battery 60 is less than before the execution of the first specific control, and therefore less than when the fluctuation condition is not satisfied. Once the first specific control for the bidirectional converter 50 is started in step S40, the control device 90 proceeds to step S50.

[0056] In step S50, the control device 90 determines whether the difference calculated in the most recent step S10 is greater than or equal to a set value. The set value is predetermined to indicate that the power consumption of the auxiliary unit 70 has significantly fluctuated. The control device 90 stores the set value in advance. If the difference is less than the set value (step S50: No), the control device 90 skips step S60, described later, and proceeds to step S70. On the other hand, if the difference is greater than or equal to the set value (step S50: Yes), the control device 90 proceeds to step S60.

[0057] In step S60, the control device 90 starts the first specific control for the auxiliary machines 71. At this point, the control device 90 interrupts the basic control for the auxiliary machines 71. During the first specific control for the auxiliary machines 71, the control device 90 controls all switchable auxiliary machines among the auxiliary machines 71 currently requested to operate in power-saving mode. Furthermore, during the first specific control for the auxiliary machines 71, the control device 90 controls all auxiliary machines 71 other than the switchable auxiliary machines among the auxiliary machines 71 currently requested to operate as normal. When the control device 90 starts the first specific control for the auxiliary machines 71, the switchable auxiliary machines switch from normal power mode to power-saving mode. Consequently, the power consumption of the auxiliary machine group 70 decreases by the number of auxiliary machines 71 switched to power-saving mode. As a result, during the execution of the first specific control for the auxiliary machines 71, the power consumption of the auxiliary machine group 70 decreases compared to before the execution of the first specific control, and compared to a state where the change condition is not satisfied. Specifically, during the first specific control for the auxiliary machines 71, the control device 90 controls the auxiliary machine group 70 so that the power consumption of the auxiliary machine group 70 is reduced compared to a state where the fluctuation condition is not satisfied. During the execution of the first specific control for the auxiliary machines 71, the control device 90 causes the display device to display that each auxiliary machine 71 is operating in a power-saving mode for component protection. Once the first specific control for the auxiliary machines 71 is initiated in step S60, the control device 90 proceeds to step S70.

[0058] In step S70, the control device 90 determines whether the termination condition is satisfied. The termination condition is that the difference between the maximum and minimum power consumption of the auxiliary unit group 70 during the unit period is less than a predetermined value. The control device 90 switches the determination of the process in step S10 between affirmative and negative, depending on the relationship between the termination condition and the variable condition. Similar to step S10, the control device 90 monitors the change in power consumption of the auxiliary unit group 70 from the time the process enters step S70 until the unit period has elapsed. Based on the difference between the maximum and minimum power consumption values ascertained from this change, the control device 90 determines whether the termination condition has been satisfied. If the termination condition is not satisfied (step S70: No), the control device 90 performs the process in step S70 again. The control device 90 repeats the process in step S70 until the termination condition is satisfied. If the termination condition is satisfied (step S70: Yes), the control device 90 proceeds to step S80. A situation in which the determination of step S70 is “YES” is a situation in which the state in which the change condition is satisfied switches to a state in which the change condition is not satisfied.

[0059] In step S80, the control device 90 terminates all currently executed special controls. Furthermore, the control device 90 restarts each basic control that was interrupted during the execution of the special controls. Thereafter, the control device 90 executes the process of step S10 again.

[0060] In step S30 , when the output power of the solar power converter 30 is equal to or less than the power consumption of the auxiliary unit 70 (step S30 : No), the control device 90 advances the process to step S140 .

[0061] In step S140, the control device 90 starts the second specific control for the solar energy converter 30. At this point, the control device 90 interrupts the basic control for the solar energy converter 30. During the second specific control for the solar energy converter 30, the control device 90 controls the solar energy converter 30 so that its output power reaches a specific power. In this embodiment, the specific power is half the maximum power associated with the previously executed basic control for the solar energy converter 30. The relationship between the maximum power and the specific power indicates that during the second specific control for the solar energy converter 30, the control device 90 controls the solar energy converter 30 so that its output power is lower than before the execution of the second specific control, and therefore lower than when the fluctuation condition is not satisfied. Once the second specific control for the solar energy converter 30 is started in step S140, the control device 90 proceeds to step S150.

[0062] In step S150, the control device 90 performs the same process as step S50. If the difference is less than the set value (step S150: No), the control device 90 skips the process of step S160, which will be described later, and proceeds to step S70. On the other hand, if the difference is greater than the set value (step S150: Yes), the control device 90 proceeds to step S160.

[0063] In step S160, the control device 90 initiates the second specific control for the auxiliary machines 71. At this point, the control device 90 interrupts the basic control for the auxiliary machines 71. During the second specific control for the auxiliary machines 71, the control device 90 not only controls the auxiliary machines 71 currently requested to operate but also activates the auxiliary machine ECUs 71A of all auxiliary machines 71 that are not requested to operate. In other words, when the control device 90 initiates the second specific control for the auxiliary machines 71, all the auxiliary machine ECUs 71A that are in a dormant state are activated. Consequently, the power consumption of the auxiliary machine group 70 increases in proportion to the number of auxiliary machine ECUs 71A activated. As a result, during the execution of the second specific control for the auxiliary machines 71, the power consumption of the auxiliary machine group 70 increases compared to before the execution of the second specific control, and therefore compared to a state where the change condition is not satisfied. Specifically, during the second specific control for the auxiliary machinery 71, the control device 90 controls the auxiliary machinery group 70 so that the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70 is greater than that in a state where the fluctuation condition is not satisfied. In step S160, when the second specific control for the auxiliary machinery 71 is initiated, the control device 90 proceeds to step S70. The control device 90 then performs steps S70 and S80.

[0064] <Effects of implementation methods>

[0065] By the control device 90 executing the above-mentioned processing routine, the following first embodiment or second embodiment can be realized.

[0066] The first embodiment will be described. Now, assume that the temperature of the second battery 40 is outside a predetermined range, and the system switches from a state not satisfying the fluctuation condition to a state satisfying the fluctuation condition (step S10: Yes, step S20: Yes). Furthermore, assume that the output power of the solar power converter 30 exceeds the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70 (step S30: Yes). In this case, the switching control settings for the bidirectional converter 50 indicate that the power supply destination for the bidirectional converter 50 is the first battery 60. In this situation, the control device 90 performs a first specific control for the bidirectional converter 50 (step S40). Specifically, the control device 90 reduces the power supplied from the bidirectional converter 50 to the first battery 60. This results in power accumulation between the solar power converter 30 and the bidirectional converter 50, leaving room for additional power supply to the auxiliary machinery group 70. Furthermore, if the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70 fluctuates significantly (step S50: Yes), the control device 90 performs a first specific control for the auxiliary machinery 71 (step S60). Specifically, the control device 90 switches the auxiliary unit 71, which can switch power modes, to power-saving mode. Consequently, the power consumption of the auxiliary unit 70 decreases. Thus, by performing each first specific control, the scope for additional power supply to the auxiliary unit 70 is increased, while at the same time, the power consumption of the auxiliary unit 70 is reduced. Furthermore, as a result, the difference between the output power of the solar power converter 30 and the power consumption of the auxiliary unit 70 increases to a level that prevents the magnitude relationship between the output power and the power consumption of the auxiliary unit 70 from reversing even if the power consumption of the auxiliary unit 70 fluctuates. Therefore, while the fluctuation condition is met, the output power of the solar power converter 30 is maintained greater than the power consumption of the auxiliary unit 70. Furthermore, in the settings for the switching control of the bidirectional converter 50, the power supply target for the bidirectional converter 50 is maintained at the first battery 60. If the determination in step S50 is "No," the control device 90 performs only the first specific control for the bidirectional converter 50, out of the first specific control for the bidirectional converter 50 and the first specific control for the auxiliary equipment 71. This allows the following to be achieved: Specifically, the difference between the output power of the solar power converter 30 and the power consumption of the auxiliary equipment 70 is increased to such an extent that the magnitude relationship between the output power and the power consumption does not reverse even if the power consumption of the auxiliary equipment 70 fluctuates.

[0067] The second embodiment will be described. Now, assume that the temperature of the second battery 40 is outside the specified range, and the state switches from a state not satisfying the fluctuation condition to a state satisfying the fluctuation condition (step S10: Yes, step S20: Yes). Furthermore, assume that the output power of the solar power converter 30 is less than the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70 (step S30: No). In this case, the setting for the switching control of the bidirectional converter 50 sets the power supply target of the bidirectional converter 50 to be the auxiliary machinery group 70. In this situation, the control device 90 performs the second specific control for the solar power converter 30 (step S140). Specifically, the control device 90 reduces the output power of the solar power converter 30 to less than the maximum power of the PV characteristic line. Furthermore, if the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70 fluctuates significantly (step S150: Yes), the control device 90 performs the second specific control for the auxiliary machinery 71 (step S160). Specifically, the control device 90 activates each auxiliary machinery ECU 71A that is in a sleep state. Consequently, the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70 increases. In this way, by performing each second specific control, the output power of the solar power converter 30 decreases, while the power consumption of the auxiliary unit 70 increases. Furthermore, the difference between the output power of the solar power converter 30 and the power consumption of the auxiliary unit 70 increases to a level where the magnitude relationship between the output power and the power consumption of the auxiliary unit 70 does not reverse even if the power consumption of the auxiliary unit 70 fluctuates. Therefore, while the fluctuation conditions are met, the output power of the solar power converter 30 is maintained at a level less than the power consumption of the auxiliary unit 70. Furthermore, in the switching control settings for the bidirectional converter 50, the power supply target for the bidirectional converter 50 is maintained at the auxiliary unit 70. If the determination in step S150 is "No," the control device 90 performs only the second specific control for the solar power converter 30, out of the second specific control for the solar power converter 30 and the second specific control for the auxiliary unit 71, thereby achieving the following. That is, the difference between the output power of the solar power converter 30 and the power consumption of the auxiliary unit 70 becomes large enough that the magnitude relationship between the output power and the power consumption does not reverse even if the power consumption of the auxiliary unit 70 fluctuates.

[0068] <Effects of implementation>

[0069] (1) As described in the operation of the above-mentioned embodiment, in the configuration of this embodiment, while the variable conditions are satisfied, each device is controlled so as to maintain the magnitude relationship between the output power of the solar power converter 30 and the power consumption of the auxiliary unit 70. Therefore, while the variable conditions are satisfied, the likelihood of maintaining the same power supply target for the bidirectional converter 50 is increased. Consequently, even in situations where the power supply target for the bidirectional converter 50 might have been frequently switched, the burden on the bidirectional converter 50 can be minimized.

[0070] (2) For example, when there are repeated straight roads and curves on the driving path of the vehicle 10, the electric power steering device is repeatedly driven and stopped. In this case, the power consumption of the auxiliary unit 70 may fluctuate significantly. In addition, for example, the power consumption of the auxiliary unit 70 may also fluctuate significantly due to repeated turning on and off of the air conditioner or turning on and off of the headlights. As in the present embodiment, if a change condition is adopted with the degree of change of the power consumption of the auxiliary unit 70 as an indicator, it is possible to capture the above-mentioned situation where the power consumption of the auxiliary unit 70 fluctuates significantly. Moreover, the burden on the bidirectional converter 50 under the condition where the power consumption of the auxiliary unit 70 fluctuates significantly can be suppressed to a minimum.

[0071] (3) When the temperature of the second battery 40 is within the specified range, the second battery 40 performs sufficient charging and discharging functions. In this case, when the power consumption of the auxiliary unit 70 fluctuates, the excess or shortage of power supplied from the solar power converter 30 relative to the power consumption of the auxiliary unit 70 can be compensated by the charging and discharging of the second battery 40. In addition, the magnitude relationship between the output power of the solar power converter 30 and the power consumption of the auxiliary unit 70 can be maintained. On the other hand, if the temperature of the second battery 40 is excessively low or high, the charging and discharging performance of the second battery 40 may be reduced. In such a situation, there is a concern that the charging and discharging of the second battery 40 may not be able to fully compensate for the excess or shortage of power as described above due to the fluctuation of the power consumption of the auxiliary unit 70. In this embodiment, each specific control is performed only in such a situation. Here, when each specific control is performed, since different control constraints are imposed from the normal control, there may be various effects such as changes in other controls performed in conjunction with the basic control. With the configuration of this embodiment, the number of opportunities for performing specific controls can be increased without exceeding the need.

[0072] (4) As described in the first mode of operation of the above embodiment, in the configuration of this embodiment, when the output power of the solar power converter 30 is greater than the power consumption of the auxiliary unit 70 at the moment of switching to a state that satisfies the variable condition, the power supplied from the bidirectional converter 50 to the first battery 60 is reduced. Thus, as described in the operation of the above embodiment, the margin for additional power supply to the auxiliary unit 70 is increased. Here, since the solar power converter 30 outputs the maximum power of the PV characteristic line, it is difficult to increase the output power of the solar power converter 30 itself. In the configuration of this embodiment, even in this situation, by adjusting the output power of the bidirectional converter 50, the margin for power supply to the auxiliary unit 70 can be increased. This configuration of this embodiment is preferable for maintaining a state in which the output power of the solar power converter 30 is greater than the power consumption of the auxiliary unit 70.

[0073] (5) As described in the first aspect of the operation of the above-mentioned embodiment, in the configuration of this embodiment, when the output power of the solar power converter 30 is greater than the power consumption of the auxiliary unit 70 at the time of switching to a state that satisfies the fluctuation condition, and the fluctuation in the power consumption of the auxiliary unit 70 is significant, the auxiliary unit 71, which can switch power modes, is switched to the power saving mode. Consequently, the power consumption of the auxiliary unit 70 is reduced. In this configuration of this embodiment, even when the power consumption of the auxiliary unit 70 fluctuates significantly, the state in which the output power of the solar power converter 30 is greater than the power consumption of the auxiliary unit 70 can be reliably maintained. Furthermore, by switching the auxiliary unit 71 to the power saving mode only when the power consumption of the auxiliary unit 70 fluctuates significantly, the chances of forcibly changing the operating mode of the auxiliary unit 71 can be minimized.

[0074] (6) As described in the second aspect of the operation of the above embodiment, in the configuration of this embodiment, when the output power of the solar power converter 30 is less than the power consumption of the auxiliary unit 70 at the time of switching to a state that satisfies the change condition, the output power of the solar power converter 30 is reduced. This configuration of the present embodiment is preferable for maintaining the output power of the solar power converter 30 less than the power consumption of the auxiliary unit 70.

[0075] (7) As described in the second aspect of the operation of the above-mentioned embodiment, in the configuration of this embodiment, when the output power of the solar power converter 30 is less than the power consumption of the auxiliary unit 70 at the time of switching to a state that satisfies the fluctuation condition, and when the power consumption of the auxiliary unit 70 fluctuates significantly, the auxiliary unit ECU 71A, which is in a sleep state, is activated. Consequently, the power consumption of the auxiliary unit 70 increases. With this configuration of this embodiment, even when the power consumption of the auxiliary unit 70 fluctuates significantly, the state in which the output power of the solar power converter 30 is less than the power consumption of the auxiliary unit 70 can be reliably maintained. Furthermore, as a measure to maintain this magnitude relationship, if only the auxiliary unit ECU 71A is activated, the target device 71B is not activated, nor is the operating mode of the target device 71B changed, so there is no actual change in the behavior of the vehicle 10. Therefore, there is no impact on the user.

[0076] <Change Example>

[0077] The above-mentioned embodiment can be implemented by modifying as follows: The above-mentioned embodiment and the following modification examples can be implemented by combining with each other within the scope of no technical contradiction.

[0078] Regarding step S40, the details of the first specific control of the bidirectional converter 50 are not limited to the examples in the above-described embodiment. The first specific control of the bidirectional converter 50 only requires that the bidirectional converter 50 be controlled so that the power supplied from the bidirectional converter 50 to the first battery 60 is less than that in a state where the fluctuation condition is not satisfied. The first specific control of the bidirectional converter 50 only requires that one or more selected from the current and voltage supplied from the bidirectional converter 50 to the first battery 60 be reduced.

[0079] Regarding step S60, the content of the first specific control for the auxiliary machine 71 is not limited to the example of the above-described embodiment. In the first specific control for the auxiliary machine 71, it is sufficient as long as the auxiliary machine group 70 can be controlled so that the power consumption of the auxiliary machine group 70 is lower than that in a state where the change condition is not satisfied. For example, at the time of execution of step S60, a switchable auxiliary machine to be switched to power-saving mode can be selected from among multiple switchable auxiliary machines in operation. At this time, the power consumption of each auxiliary machine 71 can be taken into consideration. If a switchable auxiliary machine with high power consumption is selected as the target for switching to power-saving mode, it is suitable to suppress the power consumption of the auxiliary machine group 70. In addition, for example, the number of auxiliary machines 71 controlled to power-saving mode can be increased or decreased during the execution of the first specific control for the auxiliary machine 71.

[0080] During the first specific control for the auxiliary device 71, the operation of the auxiliary device 71 itself may be stopped. For example, the first specific control for the auxiliary device 71 may be performed while the vehicle is parked. In such a situation, monitoring of the exterior or interior of the vehicle by the camera may not be necessary. In such a situation, the camera may be stopped.

[0081] The order of the processes in step S40 and step S60 can be reversed. Furthermore, the process in step S50 can be eliminated. In addition to eliminating the process in step S50, either the process in step S40 or the process in step S60 can be eliminated. In short, if the determination in step S30 is "yes," the combined processes can be performed to maintain a state where the output power of the solar power converter 30 is greater than the power consumption of the auxiliary unit 70.

[0082] Regarding the processing after a "Yes" determination in step S30, when maintaining a state in which the output power of the solar power converter 30 is greater than the power consumption of the auxiliary unit 70, the solar power converter 30 may be controlled instead of, or in addition to, controlling the bidirectional converter 50 and the auxiliary unit 70. For example, in the basic control of the solar power converter 30, a method may be employed in which the output power of the solar power converter 30 is set to a value lower than the maximum power on the PV characteristic line. In this case, further increasing the output power of the solar power converter 30 is permitted. In this case, increasing the output power of the solar power converter 30 maintains the magnitude relationship between the output power of the solar power converter 30 and the power consumption of the auxiliary unit 70. This type of control of the solar power converter 30 may be employed as the first specific control. That is, the first specific control is not limited to the example in the above embodiment. The first specific control may be any control capable of maintaining a state in which the output power of the solar power converter 30 is greater than the power consumption of the auxiliary unit 70. Furthermore, the first specific control only needs to control one or more selected from the solar power converter 30 , the auxiliary unit 70 , and the bidirectional converter 50 so as to maintain the magnitude relationship between the output power of the solar power converter 30 and the power consumption of the auxiliary unit 70 while the fluctuation condition is satisfied.

[0083] Regarding step S140, the details of the second specific control for the solar energy converter 30 are not limited to the examples in the above-described embodiment. The second specific control for the solar energy converter 30 only requires that the solar energy converter 30 be controlled so that the output power of the solar energy converter 30 is less than a state where the fluctuation condition is not satisfied. The specific power involved in the second specific control for the solar energy converter 30 may be set to a value other than half the maximum power of the PV characteristic line. Similar to the above-described variation of step S60, the specific power may be increased or decreased during the execution of the second specific control for the solar energy converter 30.

[0084] Regarding step S160, the details of the second specific control for the auxiliary machines 71 are not limited to the examples in the above-described embodiment. In the second specific control for the auxiliary machines 71, it is sufficient that the auxiliary machine group 70 can be controlled so that the power consumption of the auxiliary machine group 70 is greater than that in a state where the change condition is not satisfied. For example, among the switchable auxiliary machines currently operating in power-saving mode at the time of step S160, it is possible to switch to normal power mode. Furthermore, similar to the above-described modified example of step S60, the number of auxiliary machine ECUs 71A controlled to be active can be increased or decreased during the execution of the second specific control for the auxiliary machines 71.

[0085] The order of the processes in step S140 and step S160 may be reversed. Furthermore, the process in step S150 may be omitted. In addition to the process in step S150, either the process in step S140 or the process in step S160 may be omitted. In short, if the determination in step S30 is "No," the combined processes may be such that the output power of the solar power converter 30 is maintained below the power consumption of the auxiliary unit 70.

[0086] Regarding the processing after the determination of "No" in step S30, when maintaining a state in which the output power of the solar power converter 30 is less than the power consumption of the auxiliary unit 70, the bidirectional converter 50 may be controlled instead of, or in addition to, controlling the solar power converter 30 and the auxiliary unit 70. Furthermore, control of the bidirectional converter 50 may be employed as the second specific control. That is, as with the first specific control, the second specific control is not limited to the example in the above embodiment. The second specific control only needs to maintain a state in which the output power of the solar power converter 30 is less than the power consumption of the auxiliary unit 70. Furthermore, the second specific control only needs to control one or more selected from the solar power converter 30, the auxiliary unit 70, and the bidirectional converter 50 so as to maintain the magnitude relationship between the output power of the solar power converter 30 and the power consumption of the auxiliary unit 70 while the fluctuation condition is satisfied.

[0087] The determination in step S30 is not limited to the example in the above-described embodiment. In other words, the method for determining which of the first and second specific controls to execute is not limited to the example in the above-described embodiment. For example, in step S30, the determination of which of the first and second specific controls to execute may be based on the time of day. Here, at night, the vehicle 10 travels with the headlights on. Therefore, at night, the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70 is likely to increase. From this perspective, at night, the output power of the solar power converter 30 is more likely to be less than the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70. Therefore, when executing specific control, even if the control content is not significantly changed from the basic control, the output power of the solar power converter 30 is likely to be maintained less than the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70. Therefore, in step S30, it is possible to determine whether it is nighttime or daytime. Furthermore, the second specific control may be executed during nighttime, while the first specific control may be executed during daytime. Based on the same idea, in step S30, for example, a decision can be made based on the weather to determine which of the first specific control and the second specific control to execute. Specifically, on rainy days, the wipers are activated to drive the vehicle 10, and the power consumption of the auxiliary unit 70 is likely to increase. Therefore, in step S30, a determination method can be adopted such that the second specific control is executed on rainy days and the first specific control is executed on sunny days. In this way, the determination content of step S30 can be appropriately changed. Regardless of the determination method used in step S30, as long as only one of the first specific control and the second specific control is continued during the period in which the change condition is satisfied, the power supply direction of the bidirectional converter 50 can be maintained the same during that period. Therefore, the burden on the bidirectional converter 50 can be reduced.

[0088] The processing of step S30 can be canceled. Furthermore, if the determination in steps S10 and S20 is "yes," the first specific control can be performed without fail. Even in this case, if the first specific control is continued until the determination in step S70 is "yes," that is, while the change condition is satisfied, the power supply direction of the bidirectional converter 50 can be maintained the same. Based on the same viewpoint, if the determination in steps S10 and S20 is "yes," the second specific control can be performed without fail. In short, while the change condition is satisfied, it is sufficient to continue only one of the first specific control and the second specific control.

[0089] The processing of step S20 may be omitted. For example, if the capacity of the second battery 40 is relatively small, when the determination of step S10 is "yes," the first specific control or the second specific control may be performed regardless of the temperature of the second battery 40.

[0090] If the process of step S20 is canceled, the temperature sensor 103 can be canceled.

[0091] Regarding step S10, the change condition is not limited to the example in the above embodiment. After detecting a significant fluctuation in the power consumption of the auxiliary unit 70, a change condition different from that in the above embodiment may be adopted. Furthermore, for example, due to fluctuations in solar insolation, the power generated by the solar panel 20, and therefore the output power of the solar panel 20, may fluctuate over a short period of time. To address this, a condition indicating significant fluctuation in the output power of the solar panel 20 may be adopted as the change condition. When adopting a change condition related to the solar panel 20, for example, a condition indicating that the difference between the maximum and minimum output power of the solar panel 20 during a unit period is greater than a predetermined threshold value may be considered. The change condition may consider both the output power of the solar panel 20 and the power consumption of the auxiliary unit 70, or only one of these. The change condition only needs to indicate significant fluctuation in at least one of the output power of the solar panel 20 or the power consumption of the auxiliary unit 70. If the change condition is modified from the example in the above embodiment, the termination condition may be modified accordingly.

[0092] The content of each basic control is not limited to the examples in the above embodiment. The first specific control and the second specific control may be configured to maintain the same magnitude relationship between the output power of the solar power converter 30 and the power consumption of the auxiliary unit 70 regardless of the content of the basic control.

[0093] To limit the charge and discharge amount of the second battery 40 based on the temperature of the second battery 40, it is also possible to set limits on the output power of the solar power converter 30 when the temperature of the second battery 40 is outside a specified range. Under these limits, basic control, first specific control, and second specific control can be performed.

[0094] The configuration of the auxiliary machine 71 is not limited to the example of the above embodiment. For example, the auxiliary machine 71 may be capable of switching the power mode to three or more levels. The auxiliary machine 71 may be configured to operate by receiving the output power of the solar power converter 30 .

[0095] Depending on the configuration of the path from the solar panel 20 to the solar power converter 30, AC power may be input to the solar power converter 30. In this case, the solar power converter 30 can be configured to convert AC to DC and output the power. In other words, the solar power converter 30 is not limited to a voltage conversion configuration; it can also be configured to convert DC / AC in conjunction with the circuitry surrounding the solar power converter 30, or to rectify voltage or current.

[0096] The bidirectional converter 50 may be composed of a plurality of converters, and a set of these converters may realize the functions of converting voltage between the first battery 60 , the auxiliary unit 70 , and the solar power converter 30 and switching the direction of power supply.

[0097] The overall structure of the vehicle 10 and the power supply system 10A is not limited to the above-described embodiment. For example, the second battery 40 may be eliminated.

[0098] The control device 90 may be comprised of multiple information processing devices that independently control various devices, such as the auxiliary unit 70, the solar power converter 30, and the bidirectional converter 50. An information processing device is a computer equipped with processing circuitry including a CPU and memory. Even when the control device 90 is comprised of multiple information processing devices, as long as these multiple information processing devices can exchange information with each other, the various processes and controls described in the above-described embodiment and modifications can be implemented.

[0099] The configuration of the processing circuit of the control device 90 is not limited to the example of the above embodiment. The processing circuit may have any of the following configurations (a) to (c).

[0100] (a) The processing circuit includes one or more processors that execute various processes according to a computer program. The processor includes a CPU and memory such as RAM and ROM. The memory stores program code or instructions configured to cause the CPU to execute the processes. Memory, or computer-readable media, includes all available media that can be accessed by a general-purpose or special-purpose computer.

[0101] (b) The processing circuit includes one or more dedicated hardware circuits that execute various processes. Examples of the dedicated hardware circuits include application-specific integrated circuits, namely, ASICs and FPGAs.

[0102] (c) The processing circuit includes a processor that executes a part of various processes according to a computer program and a dedicated hardware circuit that executes the remaining processes among the various processes.

[0103] <Note>

[0104] The above-described embodiment and modified examples include the configurations described in the following supplementary notes.

[0105] [Supplementary Note 1] A power supply system comprising: a solar panel; a solar converter capable of converting the output power of the solar panel and outputting it; an auxiliary unit receiving the output power of the solar converter; a battery; a bidirectional converter capable of converting the voltage of the output power of the battery and supplying it to the auxiliary unit, and capable of converting the voltage of the output power of the solar converter and supplying it to the battery; and a control device for controlling the solar converter, the auxiliary unit, and the bidirectional converter, wherein the control device performs the following switching control: when the output power of the solar converter is greater than the power consumption of the auxiliary unit, the bidirectional converter is controlled to The invention further comprises the steps of: directing electric power from the solar energy converter to the battery; on the other hand, when the output power of the solar energy converter is less than the power consumption of the auxiliary unit, controlling the bidirectional converter to direct electric power from the battery to the auxiliary unit; and performing specific control during a period in which a variation condition is satisfied. The variation condition is a condition predetermined as a condition indicating a large variation in at least one of the output power of the solar panel and the power consumption of the auxiliary unit. The specific control is to control one or more selected from the solar energy converter, the auxiliary unit, and the bidirectional converter so as to maintain the same magnitude relationship between the output power of the solar energy converter and the power consumption of the auxiliary unit.

[0106] [Supplementary Note 2] The power supply system according to [Supplementary Note 1], wherein the variation condition is that the difference between the maximum value and the minimum value of the power consumption of the auxiliary unit in a unit period is greater than a predetermined value.

[0107] [Supplementary Note 3] According to the power supply system described in [Supplementary Note 1] or [Supplementary Note 2], when the above-mentioned battery is set as the first battery, it is provided with a second battery capable of charging and discharging the output power of the above-mentioned solar converter and a temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the above-mentioned second battery, and the above-mentioned control device executes the above-mentioned specific control with the temperature of the above-mentioned second battery being outside a predetermined specified range as a necessary condition.

[0108] [Note 4] An electric power supply system according to any one of [Note 1] to [Note 3], wherein, at the time of switching from a state that does not satisfy the above-mentioned change conditions to a state that satisfies the above-mentioned change conditions, when the output power of the above-mentioned solar converter is greater than the power consumption of the above-mentioned auxiliary unit, the above-mentioned bidirectional converter is controlled in the above-mentioned specific control so that the power supplied from the above-mentioned bidirectional converter to the above-mentioned battery is smaller than that in the state that does not satisfy the above-mentioned change conditions.

[0109] [Supplementary Note 5] An electric power supply system according to any one of [Supplementary Note 1] to [Supplementary Note 4], wherein, at the time of switching from a state not satisfying the above-mentioned change conditions to a state satisfying the above-mentioned change conditions, when the output power of the above-mentioned solar converter is greater than the power consumption of the above-mentioned auxiliary group, the above-mentioned auxiliary group is controlled in the above-mentioned specific control so that the power consumption of the above-mentioned auxiliary group is smaller than that in the state not satisfying the above-mentioned change conditions.

[0110] [Supplementary Note 6] The power supply system according to any one of [Supplementary Note 1] to [Supplementary Note 5], wherein, when the output power of the solar energy converter is less than the power consumption of the auxiliary unit at the time of switching from a state that does not satisfy the above-mentioned change condition to a state that satisfies the above-mentioned change condition, the solar energy converter is controlled in the above-mentioned specific control so that the output power of the solar energy converter is smaller than that in the state that does not satisfy the above-mentioned change condition.

[0111] [Supplement 7] An electric power supply system according to any one of [Supplement 1] to [Supplement 6], wherein, at the time of switching from a state not satisfying the above-mentioned change conditions to a state satisfying the above-mentioned change conditions, when the output power of the above-mentioned solar converter is less than the power consumption of the above-mentioned auxiliary group, the above-mentioned auxiliary group is controlled in the above-mentioned specific control so that the power consumption of the above-mentioned auxiliary group is greater than that in the state not satisfying the above-mentioned change conditions.

Claims

1. A power supply system, characterized in that: include: solar panels; a solar power converter capable of converting the power outputted by the solar panel and outputting the power; an auxiliary unit receiving the power output by the solar energy converter; Battery; a bidirectional converter capable of converting the voltage of the electric power output by the battery and supplying the electric power to the auxiliary unit, and capable of converting the voltage of the electric power output by the solar power converter and supplying the electric power to the battery; as well as a control device configured to control the solar energy converter, the auxiliary unit, and the bidirectional converter; in, The control device is configured to perform the following control as switching control: When a first condition is satisfied, the bidirectional converter is controlled so that the electric power flows from the solar converter to the battery. When a second condition is satisfied, the bidirectional converter is controlled so that the electric power flows from the battery to the auxiliary unit. The first condition is that the power output by the solar power converter is greater than the power consumed by the auxiliary unit. The second condition is that the power output by the solar power converter is smaller than the power consumed by the auxiliary unit. The control device is configured to execute specific control while the change condition is satisfied. The fluctuation condition is a condition predetermined as a condition indicating that fluctuation in at least one of the power output by the solar panel and the power consumed by the auxiliary unit is large. The specific control is configured to control one or more selected from the solar power converter, the auxiliary unit, and the bidirectional converter so as to maintain the same magnitude relationship between the power output by the solar power converter and the power consumed by the auxiliary unit.

2. The power supply system according to claim 1, wherein: The fluctuation condition is a condition that the difference between the maximum value and the minimum value of the electric power consumed by the auxiliary unit in a unit period is equal to or greater than a predetermined value.

3. The power supply system according to claim 1, wherein: Also includes: a second battery capable of charging and discharging the electric power output by the solar converter; and a temperature sensor configured to detect the temperature of the second battery, in, The battery is the first battery, The control device is configured to execute the specific control based on a necessary condition that the temperature of the second battery is outside a predetermined range.

4. The power supply system according to claim 1, wherein: When the first condition is satisfied at a predetermined timing, the control device controls the bidirectional converter in the specific control so that the power supplied from the bidirectional converter to the battery is smaller than when the fluctuation condition is not satisfied. The predetermined timing is a timing of switching from a state that does not satisfy the change condition to a state that satisfies the change condition.

5. The power supply system according to claim 1, wherein: When the first condition is satisfied at a predetermined timing, the specific control is configured to control the auxiliary machine group so that the power consumption of the auxiliary machine group is lower than that in a state where the fluctuation condition is not satisfied. The predetermined timing is a timing of switching from a state that does not satisfy the change condition to a state that satisfies the change condition.

6. The power supply system according to claim 1, wherein: When the second condition is satisfied at a predetermined timing, the control device controls the solar power converter in the specific control so that the power output by the solar power converter is smaller than that in a state where the fluctuation condition is not satisfied. The predetermined timing is a timing of switching from a state that does not satisfy the change condition to a state that satisfies the change condition.

7. The power supply system according to claim 1, wherein: When the second condition is satisfied at a predetermined timing, the specific control is configured to control the auxiliary unit so that the power consumed by the auxiliary unit is greater than when the fluctuation condition is not satisfied. The predetermined timing is a timing of switching from a state that does not satisfy the change condition to a state that satisfies the change condition.

8. A control device configured to control a solar power converter, an auxiliary unit, and a bidirectional converter by executing commands stored in a storage medium by a processor, wherein: comprising the processor, wherein, The control device is configured to apply the control to a vehicle. The vehicle has: solar panels; The solar power converter is capable of converting the power output by the solar panel to output the power; an auxiliary unit receiving a supply of electric power output by the solar energy converter; Batteries; and The bidirectional converter is capable of converting the voltage of the power output from the battery and supplying the power to the auxiliary unit, and is capable of converting the voltage of the power output from the solar power converter and supplying the power to the battery. The control device is configured to perform the following control as switching control: When the power output by the solar power converter is greater than the power consumed by the auxiliary unit, the bidirectional converter is controlled to direct the power from the solar power converter to the battery. When the power output by the solar power converter is less than the power consumed by the auxiliary unit, the bidirectional converter is controlled to direct power from the battery to the auxiliary unit. During a period in which the change condition is satisfied, the control device is configured to execute specific control. The fluctuation condition is a condition predetermined as a condition indicating that fluctuation in at least one of the output power of the solar panel and the power consumption of the auxiliary unit is large. The specific control is configured to control one or more selected from the solar power converter, the auxiliary unit, and the bidirectional converter so as to maintain the same magnitude relationship between the power output by the solar power converter and the power consumed by the auxiliary unit.

9. A non-transitory storage medium storing instructions executable by one or more processors and causing the one or more processors of a control device to perform the following functions, characterized in that: include: performing switching control as follows: when the power output by the solar power converter is greater than the power consumed by the auxiliary power unit, controlling the bidirectional converter so that the power flows from the solar power converter to the battery; and when the power output by the solar power converter is less than the power consumed by the auxiliary power unit, controlling the bidirectional converter so that the power flows from the battery to the auxiliary power unit; and During the period when the change conditions are met, specific control is performed. in, The fluctuation condition is a condition predetermined as a condition indicating that fluctuation in at least one of the power output by the solar panel and the power consumed by the auxiliary unit is large. The specific control is to control one or more selected from the solar power converter, the auxiliary unit, and the bidirectional converter so as to maintain the same magnitude relationship between the power output by the solar power converter and the power consumed by the auxiliary unit. The function is applied to the vehicle, The vehicle has: the solar panels; The solar power converter is capable of converting the power output by the solar panel and outputting the power; The auxiliary unit receives the power output by the solar power converter; the battery; the bidirectional converter being capable of converting the voltage of the electric power output from the battery and supplying the electric power to the auxiliary unit, and being capable of converting the voltage of the electric power output from the solar power converter and supplying the electric power to the battery; and The control device is configured to control the solar power converter, the auxiliary unit, and the bidirectional converter.

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