Electric vehicle and electric vehicle system

Abstract

The invention discloses an electric vehicle and an electric vehicle system. Provided are an electric vehicle capable of power control including at least one of charging from a power station corresponding to at least one version of a predetermined communication standard and power supply to the power station, and a system of the electric vehicle. The electric vehicle is provided with a communication unit corresponding to a plurality of versions of a predetermined communication standard. Furthermore, the electric vehicle is provided with a control unit that controls the communication unit such that power control protocol communication between the electric vehicle and the power station is performed using the predetermined communication standard. The plurality of versions are provided with priorities in advance. The control unit determines a version to be used for power control protocol communication on the basis of the priority.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of application number 202211532088.2, filed on December 1, 2022, entitled "Electric Vehicle and Electric Vehicle System". Technical Field

[0002] This disclosure relates to electric vehicles and electric vehicle systems. Background Technology

[0003] For example, the charging system described in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2020-127296 includes a vehicle and a charger that are electrically connected to each other. The vehicle has a CPU that controls the sending and receiving of messages according to a predetermined communication sequence to charge the battery. When the CPU receives a message from the charger that is a predetermined specific signal, it proceeds with the communication sequence regardless of the content represented by the specific signal. Summary of the Invention

[0004] As described above, in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2020-127296, the vehicle's CPU proceeds with the communication sequence regardless of the content represented by the predetermined specific signal received from the charger. However, Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2020-127296 does not consider the communication standard used in the charging protocol communication between the vehicle and the charger. For example, if the vehicle can be compatible with multiple versions of a predetermined communication standard, one of the multiple versions is randomly selected. As a result, sometimes an unsuitable version for the charging protocol communication is used. In such cases, it is considered difficult to charge the vehicle. Therefore, it is desirable to obtain an electric vehicle that can perform appropriate power control, such as charging, when the electric vehicle is compatible with multiple versions of a predetermined communication standard.

[0005] This disclosure provides an electric vehicle and an electric vehicle system that can appropriately perform power control, such as charging, when the electric vehicle corresponds to multiple versions of a predetermined communication standard.

[0006] The first aspect of this disclosure relates to an electric vehicle equipped with a communication unit and a control unit. The electric vehicle is capable of power control, which includes at least one of charging from a power station corresponding to at least one version of a predetermined communication standard and supplying power to the power station. The communication unit is configured to correspond to multiple versions of the predetermined communication standard. The control unit is configured to control the communication unit to ensure that power control protocol communication between the electric vehicle and the power station uses the predetermined communication standard. Furthermore, the multiple versions are pre-prioritized. The control unit is configured to determine the version used for power control protocol communication based on the aforementioned priorities. Here, the electric vehicle may also be any one of a hybrid vehicle, a plug-in hybrid vehicle, an electric vehicle, or a fuel cell vehicle.

[0007] In electric vehicles using the above-described method, the control unit determines the version used for power control protocol communication based on the aforementioned priority. Therefore, by selecting a version of a predetermined communication standard according to this priority, the possibility of randomly selecting a version unsuitable for power control protocol communication can be easily reduced. Thus, when the electric vehicle corresponds to multiple versions of a predetermined communication standard, a suitable version can be easily selected, and appropriate power control can be performed.

[0008] In the electric vehicle described above, multiple versions may include a first version and a second version with a lower priority than the first version. The control unit may also be configured to switch to using the second version of communication if communication using the first version fails in the power control protocol communication. According to the electric vehicle described above, even if communication using the higher-priority first version fails, communication using the second version is still possible, thus more reliably suppressing power control protocol communication failures compared to attempting communication solely with the first version.

[0009] In the electric vehicle with the above-described structure, the control unit can also be configured to switch to a second version of communication, which has a lower priority than the first version, in the event of a communication failure using the first version of the power control protocol. According to the electric vehicle with the above structure, it is possible to prioritize determining whether communication using the second version, which has a higher priority than the first version, can be performed.

[0010] In the electric vehicle described above, the communication unit can also be configured to acquire information related to past performance records of power control protocol communication corresponding to various versions of multiple versions. The control unit can also be configured to determine the version used for power control protocol communication based on the performance-related information and priority. The electric vehicle according to the above method can determine the version used for power control protocol communication by considering both priority and past performance records. As a result, compared to the case where the version used for power control protocol communication is determined solely based on priority, power control protocol communication failures can be suppressed more reliably.

[0011] In the electric vehicle with the above-described structure, the information related to the aforementioned performance may also include information related to whether past power control protocol communication was possible. Multiple versions may include versions that were previously capable of power control protocol communication and versions that were previously incapable of power control protocol communication. The control unit may also be configured to determine the version that was previously capable of power control protocol communication as the version used for power control protocol communication. According to the electric vehicle with the above-described structure, the selection of versions that were previously incapable of power control protocol communication can be suppressed, thus further reliably suppressing power control protocol communication failures.

[0012] In the electric vehicle described above, the control unit can also be configured to, when multiple versions capable of past power control protocol communication exist, determine the version with the highest priority among these versions as the version used for power control protocol communication. According to the electric vehicle with the above structure, the version most suitable for power control protocol communication among the multiple versions capable of past power control protocol communication can be used for power control protocol communication.

[0013] In the electric vehicle described above, the control unit can also be configured to switch to a version of the power control protocol that was previously not capable of power control protocol communication if all previous versions of power control protocol communication fail. Electric vehicles with this structure can increase the likelihood of successful power control protocol communication compared to vehicles that do not switch to a previously incapable version.

[0014] In the electric vehicle with the above-described structure, when switching to a version of the power control protocol that was previously unable to communicate, the control unit may be configured to, upon successful communication using the previously incompatible version, control the communication unit to update information related to the capability of power control protocol communication corresponding to the version that successfully communicated. According to this structure, in the next power control protocol communication, the version of the power control protocol used for communication can be determined based on the latest information related to the capability of power control protocol communication.

[0015] In the electric vehicle described above, the communication unit can also be configured to communicate with a first server that stores information related to the performance of communication with the power control protocol. The control unit can also be configured to control the communication unit to obtain the information related to the performance of communication with the power control protocol from the first server. According to the electric vehicle with the above structure, it is not necessary to store the information related to the performance in the electric vehicle itself. As a result, the effort of storing the information related to the performance in the electric vehicle's storage devices or the like can be eliminated. Furthermore, the data capacity stored in the electric vehicle's storage devices or the like can be reduced.

[0016] In the electric vehicle with the above-described structure, the communication unit can also be configured to communicate with a second server storing priority-related information, and the control unit can also be configured to control the communication unit to obtain the priority-related information from the second server. According to the electric vehicle with the above-described structure, it is not necessary to store the priority-related information in the electric vehicle itself. As a result, the effort of storing the priority-related information in the electric vehicle's storage devices or the like can be eliminated. Furthermore, the data capacity stored in the electric vehicle's storage devices or the like can be further reduced.

[0017] The second aspect of this disclosure relates to an electric vehicle system comprising a power station and an electric vehicle. The power station is configured to correspond to at least one version of a predetermined communication standard. The electric vehicle is configured to perform power control, which includes at least one of charging from the power station and supplying power to the power station. The electric vehicle comprises a communication unit and a control unit. The communication unit is configured to correspond to multiple versions of the predetermined communication standard. The control unit is configured to control the communication unit to perform power control protocol communication between the electric vehicle and the power station using the predetermined communication standard. Furthermore, the multiple versions are pre-prioritized, and the control unit is configured to determine the version used for power control protocol communication based on the priority.

[0018] In the electric vehicle system described above, the control unit determines the version used for power control protocol communication based on the aforementioned priority. Therefore, by selecting a version of a predetermined communication standard according to this priority, the possibility of randomly selecting a version unsuitable for power control protocol communication can be easily reduced. Thus, an electric vehicle system can be provided that allows for easy selection of a suitable version and appropriate power control when multiple versions of a predetermined communication standard are compatible with the electric vehicle.

[0019] According to the electric vehicle and electric vehicle system disclosed herein, when the electric vehicle corresponds to multiple versions of a predetermined communication standard, appropriate power control, such as charging, can be performed. Attached Figure Description

[0020] The features, advantages, and technical and industrial significance of exemplary embodiments of the present invention are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which similar reference numerals denote similar elements, wherein:

[0021] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating the structure of the electric vehicle, EVSE, and server according to the first embodiment of this disclosure.

[0022] Figure 2 This is a diagram illustrating the relationship between the versions and priorities of the predetermined communication standards involved in the first and second embodiments of this disclosure.

[0023] Figure 3 This is a diagram illustrating the sequence control between the electric vehicle, EVSE, and server involved in the first embodiment.

[0024] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating the structure of the electric vehicle, EVSE, and server involved in the second embodiment.

[0025] Figure 5This is a diagram showing the relationship between various versions of the predetermined communication standard involved in the second embodiment and the actual performance of the power control protocol communication.

[0026] Figure 6 This is a diagram illustrating the sequence control between the electric vehicle, EVSE, and server involved in the second embodiment.

[0027] Figure 7 This is a diagram illustrating the updated relationship between the various versions of the predetermined communication standard involved in the second embodiment and the actual performance of the power control protocol communication. Detailed Implementation

[0028] The embodiments of this disclosure will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, identical or equivalent parts in the drawings will be labeled with the same reference numerals, and their descriptions will not be repeated.

[0029] [First Implementation Method]

[0030] Figure 1 This is a diagram showing the schematic structure of the electric vehicle 10 and the electric vehicle system 1 according to the first embodiment of this disclosure.

[0031] The electric vehicle system 1 includes an electric vehicle 10 and an EVSE (Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment) 20. The EVSE 20 is an example of the "power station" disclosed herein.

[0032] The electric vehicle 10 is configured to communicate with the EVSE20 via a predetermined communication standard. The predetermined communication standard includes, for example, the CHAdeMO standard, the GB / T standard, or the CSS (Communications Standards Summary) standard.

[0033] Server 100 is a server that manages communication between electric vehicle 10 and EVSE20. Server 100 is configured to communicate with electric vehicle 10 and EVSE20 separately. In addition, server 100 is an example of a "second server" of this disclosure.

[0034] Server 100 includes a processor 101, a memory 102, and a communication unit 103. The processor 101 performs predetermined information processing. The memory 102 is configured to store various types of information. In addition to storing the program executed by the processor 101, the memory 102 also stores information used in the program (e.g., mappings, mathematical expressions, and various parameters). The communication unit 103 includes various communication I / Fs.

[0035] In addition, server 100 is configured to manage information of the registered multiple electric vehicles 10 (hereinafter also referred to as "vehicle information"), information of each registered user (hereinafter also referred to as "user information"), and information of the registered EVSE 20 (hereinafter also referred to as "EVSE information"). User information, vehicle information, and EVSE information are distinguished by identification information (ID) and stored in memory 102.

[0036] The user ID is identification information used to identify the user, and also functions as information (terminal ID) to identify the portable terminal 16 carried by the user. The server 100 is configured to store information received from the portable terminal 16 separately for each user ID. The user information includes the communication address of the portable terminal 16 carried by the user and the vehicle ID of the electric vehicle 10 belonging to the user.

[0037] The vehicle ID is identification information used to identify the electric vehicle 10. The vehicle ID can be a license plate number or a VIN (Vehicle Identification Number). The vehicle information includes the planned movement of each electric vehicle 10.

[0038] EVSE-ID is identification information used to identify EVSE20. EVSE information includes the communication address of each EVSE20 and the status of the electric vehicle 10 connected to each EVSE20. Additionally, EVSE information also includes information representing the combination of interconnected electric vehicles 10 and EVSE20 (e.g., a combination of EVSE-ID and vehicle ID).

[0039] Electric vehicle 10 is configured to perform electrical control including charging from EVSE 20 (external charging) and supplying power to EVSE 20 (external power supply). Electric vehicle 10 includes, for example, a hybrid electric vehicle (HEV), a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), a battery electric vehicle (BEV), and a fuel cell electric vehicle (FCeV). Additionally, electric vehicle 10 may include at least one of a personally owned vehicle (POV) and a vehicle managed by a MaaS (Mobility as a Service) operator (MaaS vehicle). Furthermore, electric vehicle 10 may also be configured to be capable only of either external power supply or external charging.

[0040] The electric vehicle 10 includes a driving motor 11, a battery 12, a communication unit 13, an ECU (Electronic Control Unit) 14, and a charger 15.

[0041] The storage battery 12 supplies power to the motor 11 for driving. The storage battery 12 includes a secondary battery that stores power for driving. The secondary battery is a battery pack consisting of multiple lithium-ion batteries or multiple nickel-metal hydride batteries. Alternatively, other energy storage devices such as double-layer capacitors may be used instead of secondary batteries.

[0042] In addition, the communication unit 13 communicates with the server 100 and the EVSE20 respectively. The communication unit 13 may also include communication I / F corresponding to DCM (Data Communication Module) or 5G (Fifth Generation Mobile Communication System).

[0043] ECU 14 performs power control (charging and discharging control) of battery 12. ECU 14 includes processor 14a and storage device 14b. ECU 14 can be a computer or CPU (Central Processing Unit). Storage device 14b is configured to store information. In addition to storing programs, storage device 14b also stores information used in the programs (e.g., mappings, mathematical expressions, and various parameters). Various controls in ECU 14 are executed by processor 14a executing the programs stored in storage device 14b. Furthermore, processor 14a is an example of the "control unit" of this disclosure.

[0044] EVSE20 refers to a vehicle power supply device. The electric vehicle 10 is configured to be electrically connected to the EVSE20. For example, by connecting the charging cable 30 to the EVSE20 to the socket of the electric vehicle 10, power can be transferred between the EVSE20 and the electric vehicle 10. The number of EVSE20s managed in the electric vehicle system 1 is arbitrary; it can be around 5, more than 10, or even more than 100.

[0045] EVSE20 includes a DC-mode EVSE. Therefore, DC power is supplied from electric vehicle 10 to EVSE20, and DC / AC conversion is performed via an inverter built into EVSE20. The charger 15, which regulates the charging and discharging power of the battery 12 of electric vehicle 10, is configured, for example, to regulate the charging and discharging power via a DC / DC converter. However, EVSE20 is not necessarily DC-mode; it can also be AC-mode.

[0046] Furthermore, EVSE20 corresponds to at least one version of the aforementioned predetermined communication standard. In the first embodiment, EVSE20 corresponds to versions A, B, and C of the aforementioned predetermined communication standard. Additionally, in the first embodiment, the versions are newer versions in the order of A, B, and C.

[0047] Furthermore, the communication unit 13 of the electric vehicle 10 corresponds to multiple versions of the aforementioned predetermined communication standard. In the first embodiment, the communication unit 13 of the electric vehicle 10 corresponds to version A, version B, and version C of the aforementioned predetermined communication standard. Additionally, examples are described where the versions corresponding to the electric vehicle 10 and EVSE20 are identical, but the corresponding versions may also be different.

[0048] Furthermore, the processor 14a of the electric vehicle 10 controls the communication unit 13 to conduct power control protocol communication between the electric vehicle 10 and the EVSE 20 using the aforementioned predetermined communication standard. Specifically, the processor 14a controls the determination of the version of the aforementioned predetermined communication standard used in the power control protocol communication between the communication unit 13 and the EVSE 20. The method for determining the version will be described in detail later. In addition, the power control protocol communication in the first embodiment refers to communication between the electric vehicle 10 and the EVSE 20 for determining the protocol required to initiate power control.

[0049] Furthermore, the multiple versions (A to C) of the aforementioned predetermined communication standard are pre-set with priorities (priority order). For example, the priority is set higher according to the order of the new versions (i.e., the order of A, B, C). Information related to the aforementioned priorities is stored in the memory 102 of the server 100. Specifically, the memory 102 stores the relationship between priorities and versions of the predetermined communication standard. The memory 102 may also store a table corresponding to priorities and versions of the predetermined communication standard.

[0050] A known charging system includes an electric vehicle that, when receiving a predetermined specific signal from an EVSE (Electric Vehicle SE), proceeds with a communication sequence regardless of the signal's content. However, this system does not consider the communication standard used in the charging protocol communication between the electric vehicle and the EVSE. For example, if the vehicle can be compatible with multiple versions of a predetermined communication standard, one version may be randomly selected, sometimes resulting in the use of an unsuitable version for the charging protocol communication. In such cases, charging the vehicle is considered difficult. Therefore, a power control system for an electric vehicle (electric vehicle system) that can appropriately perform charging and other functions when the electric vehicle is compatible with multiple versions of a predetermined communication standard is desired.

[0051] Therefore, in the first embodiment, the processor 14a of the electric vehicle 10 determines the version used for power control protocol communication based on the aforementioned priority. Specifically, the processor 14a controls the communication unit 13 to obtain information related to the aforementioned priority from the server 100 (memory 102). Then, the processor 14a selects the version used for power control protocol communication based on the obtained information related to the priority and the relationship between multiple versions (A to C).

[0052] In detail, the processor 14a (initially) selects version A, which has the highest priority among multiple versions (A to C), as the version used for power control protocol communication.

[0053] Furthermore, in the first embodiment, if communication using version A in the power control protocol communication fails, the processor 14a controls the switching to communication using version B, which has a lower priority than version A. Version A and version B in this case are examples of the "first version" and "second version" of this disclosure, respectively. Moreover, communication "failure" includes, for example, situations where a response signal is not returned from the EVSE within a predetermined period for a request signal from the vehicle, or situations where there is no response from the EVSE even after a retry.

[0054] Subsequently, if communication using version B in the power control protocol communication also fails, the processor 14a controls the switch to communication using version C, which has a lower priority than version B. Version B and version C in this case are examples of the "first version" and "second version" of this disclosure, respectively.

[0055] (Sequence control)

[0056] Next, refer to Figure 3 The sequence diagram illustrates the method for determining the version of the predetermined communication standard used for power control protocol communication. Furthermore, Figure 3 This is a diagram illustrating the method for determining the version of the protocol used in communication prior to the commencement of power control.

[0057] First, in step S1, server 100 sends information related to the aforementioned priority to electric vehicle 10 (communication unit 13) (information related to the relationship between priority and the version of the predetermined communication standard, see [reference]). Figure 2 At this time, the electric vehicle 10 (processor 14a) controls the communication unit 13 to obtain information related to the aforementioned priority from the server 100 (memory 102).

[0058] Next, in step S2, the processor 14a selects the version with the highest priority (version A) as the version to be used in communication with EVSE20 based on the priority-related information obtained in step S1.

[0059] Therefore, in step S3, communication using version A is initiated between electric vehicle 10 (communication unit 13) and EVSE20. As a result, electric vehicle 10 and EVSE20 are able to exchange information with each other.

[0060] Next, in step S4, the electric vehicle 10 (communication unit 13) sends information about the version used for communication to the EVSE20. Specifically, the communication unit 13 conveys to the EVSE20 the use of version A in the communication with the EVSE20.

[0061] Next, in step S5, based on the information transmitted from electric vehicle 10 to EVSE20 in step S4, the version used for power control protocol communication is determined. For example, electric vehicle 10 and EVSE20 may decide to communicate with each other using version A selected in step S2.

[0062] Next, in step S6, the processor 14a determines whether communication using the power control protocol version A has failed (determines communication compatibility). Specifically, the determination may also include an adhesion check phase, an insulation test phase, a handshake phase, and a power control specification configuration phase.

[0063] During the adhesion inspection phase, it is determined whether the contactors installed on the electric vehicle 10 are adhered. During the insulation test phase, the insulation between the wiring of the electrically connected electric vehicle 10 and EVSE20 is determined. During the handshake phase, charging (discharging) compatibility information and identification messages are exchanged between the electric vehicle 10 and EVSE20. During the power control specification configuration phase, the electric vehicle 10 and EVSE20 send and receive various charging (discharging) specification messages to determine whether charging (discharging) can be performed on each other.

[0064] If the power control protocol communication fails in step S6 (S6 is marked "Yes"), proceed to step S61. If the power control protocol communication succeeds in step S6 (S6 is marked "No"), proceed to step S7.

[0065] In step S61, processor 14a determines whether there is a version for which power control protocol communication cannot be confirmed. If it is determined in step S61 that a version for which power control protocol communication cannot be confirmed exists (S61 is "Yes"), the process proceeds to step S62. If it is determined in step S61 that no version for which power control protocol communication cannot be confirmed exists (S61 is "No"), the process ends. Specifically, at the time of the first step S61, it is not confirmed whether power control protocol communication using versions B and C can be performed. Therefore, the process proceeds from step S61 to step S62.

[0066] In step S62, processor 14a switches the version used for power control protocol communication to a version with a lower priority among the versions for which power control protocol communication has not been confirmed. That is, processor 14a switches the version used for power control protocol communication to the highest priority version among the versions for which power control protocol communication has not been confirmed. Specifically, if it is determined in step S6 that power control protocol communication using version A has failed, the version used for power control protocol communication is switched to version B, which has a higher priority than version A.

[0067] Then, the process returns to the interval between steps S2 and S3, repeating the process after step S3. Specifically, in the second step S6, it is determined whether the power control protocol communication using version B, which was switched in step S62, has failed. Then, if the process enters step S62, the version used for power control protocol communication is switched to version C, which has a higher priority than version B.

[0068] Then, the process returns to steps S2 and S3. In the third step, S6, it is determined whether communication using the power control protocol C switched in step S62 has failed. Then, if the process proceeds to step S61, it is determined that there is no version for which power control protocol communication has not been confirmed ("No" in S61), therefore the process ends.

[0069] On the other hand, in step S7, based on the version of the power control protocol that was determined in step S6 to be capable of power control protocol communication, power control between electric vehicle 10 and EVSE20 is initiated.

[0070] [Second Implementation]

[0071] Next, the control in the electric vehicle 110 (electric vehicle system 21) according to the second embodiment of this disclosure will be described. In the second embodiment, unlike the first embodiment described above which only determines the version of the predetermined communication standard used for power control protocol communication based on the aforementioned priority, the version is determined based on both the aforementioned priority and the actual performance of the power control protocol communication. Furthermore, for structures identical to those in the first embodiment, the same reference numerals are used as in the first embodiment, and detailed descriptions are not repeated.

[0072] Figure 4 This is a diagram showing a schematic structure of the electric vehicle 110 and the electric vehicle system 21 according to the second embodiment of this disclosure.

[0073] The electric vehicle system 21 includes electric vehicle 110 and EVSE20.

[0074] Server 200 is a server that manages communication between electric vehicle 110 and EVSE 20. Server 200 is configured to communicate with electric vehicle 110 and EVSE 20 respectively. Furthermore, server 200 is an example of the "first server" and "second server" of this disclosure.

[0075] Server 200 includes a processor 201, a memory 202, and a communication unit 203. The processor 201 performs predetermined information processing. The memory 202 is configured to store various types of information. In addition to storing the program executed by the processor 201, the memory 202 also stores information used in the program (e.g., mappings, mathematical expressions, and various parameters). The communication unit 203 includes various communication I / Fs.

[0076] In the memory 202 of server 200, in addition to storing information related to the priority of the first embodiment described above, information related to the performance of power control protocol communication is also stored. The information related to the performance of power control protocol communication includes information related to whether past (last) power control protocol communication could be performed. Specifically, such as... Figure 5 As shown, memory 202 stores information related to whether past (last) power control protocol communication could be performed, corresponding to versions A through C. For example, memory 202 may also store a table corresponding to the aforementioned performance with priority and version information. Furthermore, in the second embodiment, as an example, it is assumed that past power control protocol communication using version A failed, while past power control protocol communication using versions B and C succeeded.

[0077] like Figure 4 As shown, the electric vehicle 110 includes a communication unit 113 and an ECU 114. The communication unit 113 communicates with the server 200 and the EVSE 20, respectively. The ECU 114 includes a processor 114a and a storage device 114b. Various controls in the ECU 114 are executed by the processor 114a executing programs stored in the storage device 114b. Furthermore, the processor 114a is an example of the "control unit" of this disclosure.

[0078] Processor 114a controls communication unit 113 to obtain information related to the performance of communication with the aforementioned power control protocol from server 200 (memory 202) (see reference). Figure 5 That is, the communication unit 113, according to the control (instructions) of the processor 114a, retrieves from the memory 202 information related to the actual performance of communication with the past power control protocol corresponding to each of versions A to C.

[0079] In the second embodiment, the processor 114a determines the version used for power control protocol communication based on information related to the aforementioned performance and the aforementioned priority. That is, the processor 114a determines the version used for power control protocol communication based on the aforementioned priority and information related to whether past (last) power control protocol communication can be performed.

[0080] Specifically, processor 114a determines the version that was previously (last time) capable of power control protocol communication (hereinafter referred to as the version with a "capable" record) as the version used for power control protocol communication. More specifically, when there are multiple versions with a "capable" record, processor 114a determines the version with the highest priority among the multiple versions with a "capable" record as the version used for power control protocol communication. In the second embodiment, as described above, since versions B and C have a "capable" record, the higher-priority version B (initially) is determined as the version used for power control protocol communication.

[0081] Furthermore, if communication using the version of the power control protocol with a performance rating of "enabled" fails, the processor 114a switches to communication using a version with a lower priority than the failed version. That is, if communication using version B of the power control protocol fails, the processor 114a selects version C as the next version for power control protocol communication.

[0082] Furthermore, if all communication using multiple versions with a "can" rating fails in the power control protocol communication, the processor 114a controls the switching to communication using a version that was previously unable to perform power control protocol communication (hereinafter referred to as a "cannot" version). Specifically, if power control protocol communication using versions B and C fails, the processor 114a selects version A as the next version for power control protocol communication. Moreover, if there are multiple "cannot" versions, the processor 114a checks whether communication based on each of the multiple "cannot" versions can be performed, in descending order of priority.

[0083] Furthermore, if the processor 114a successfully communicates using a version of the power control protocol with a record of "cannot", it controls the communication unit 113 to update the information related to whether power control protocol communication can be performed, corresponding to the successful version. Specifically, if communication using version A of the power control protocol is successful, the record (cannot) corresponding to version A stored in the memory 202 of the server 200 is changed to "can".

[0084] Furthermore, if the processor 114a fails to communicate using the power control protocol version with a record of "Yes", it controls the communication unit 113 to update the information related to whether power control protocol communication can be performed, corresponding to the failed version. Specifically, if communication using version B (C) fails, the record (Yes) corresponding to version B (C) stored in the memory 202 of the server 200 is changed to "No".

[0085] (Sequence control)

[0086] Next, refer to Figure 6 The sequence diagram illustrates the method for determining the version of the predetermined communication standard used for power control protocol communication. Furthermore, Figure 6 This is a diagram illustrating the method for determining the version of the protocol used in communication prior to the commencement of power control.

[0087] Steps S11 to S13 are respectively the same as steps S1 to S3 of the first embodiment described above (refer to...). Figure 3 Similarly, this will not be repeated here.

[0088] In step S14, the electric vehicle 110 (processor 114a) determines the EVSE20 for which power control is performed. For example, the processor 114a may also determine the EVSE20 based on the EVSE-ID sent from the EVSE20, the model information of the EVSE20, or GPS (Global Positioning System) functionality.

[0089] Next, in step S15, the server 200 will send information related to whether past (last) power control protocol communication can be performed, corresponding to the EVSE20 determined by the processor 114a in step S14 (see reference). Figure 5 The processor 114a sends the information to the communication unit 113. That is, the processor 114a controls the communication unit 113 to obtain information from the server 200 (memory 202) related to whether power control protocol communication can be performed, corresponding to the EVSE20 determined in step S14.

[0090] Next, in step S16, the processor 114a determines the version to be used for power control protocol communication based on the information obtained in step S15 related to whether past (last) power control protocol communication can be performed and the aforementioned priority. Specifically, the processor 114a determines version B, which has the highest priority among versions B and C with a result of "able", as the version to be used for power control protocol communication. Furthermore, if there is no version with a result of "able" at the time of step S16, the processor 114a may also determine the version with the highest priority among versions with a result of "cannot" as the version to be used for power control protocol communication.

[0091] Next, in step S17, communication between the electric vehicle 10 (communication unit 113) and the EVSE20 is started using the version determined in step S16.

[0092] The following steps S18 and S19 are respectively related to steps S4 and S5 of the first embodiment described above (see...). Figure 3 Similarly, this will not be repeated here.

[0093] Next, in step S20, the processor 114a determines whether communication using the power control protocol version B has failed (determines communication compatibility). The specific example of this determination is the same as in the first embodiment described above, and therefore will not be repeated here.

[0094] In step S20, if the power control protocol communication fails (S20 indicates "Yes"), the process proceeds to step S201. In step S20, if the power control protocol communication succeeds (S20 indicates "No"), the process proceeds to step S21.

[0095] In step S201, processor 114a determines whether a version exists that is "capable" but whose ability to perform power control protocol communication is not confirmed. If, in step S201, it is determined that a version exists that is "capable" but whose ability to perform power control protocol communication is not confirmed (S201 is "Yes"), the process proceeds to step S202. If, in step S201, it is determined that a version does not exist that is "capable" but whose ability to perform power control protocol communication is not confirmed (S201 is "No"), the process proceeds to step S203.

[0096] Specifically, at the time point of the first step S201, it is confirmed whether power control protocol communication using only version B in versions B and C (with a result of "Yes") can be performed. That is, it is not confirmed whether power control protocol communication using version C can be performed. Therefore, the process proceeds from step S201 to step S202.

[0097] In step S202, processor 114a switches the version used for power control protocol communication to a version with a lower priority among those versions whose performance is "capable" but whose ability to perform power control protocol communication is not confirmed. That is, in step S202, processor 114a switches the version used for power control protocol communication to the highest priority version among those versions whose performance is "capable" but whose ability to perform power control protocol communication is not confirmed. Specifically, if it is determined in step S20 that power control protocol communication using version B has failed, in step S202, the version used for power control protocol communication is switched from version B to version C. Versions B and C in this case are examples of the "first version" and "second version" of this disclosure, respectively.

[0098] Then, in step S205, processor 114a controls communication unit 113 to update the performance record of power control protocol communication stored in memory 202 of server 200. Specifically, the performance record of power control protocol communication using version B is changed to "No".

[0099] Then, the process returns to steps S16 and S17, repeating the process after step S17. At this point, in step S17, communication using the version switched in step 202 begins. Specifically, in the second step S17, communication using version C begins. Furthermore, in the second step S20, it is determined whether communication using the power control protocol of version C has failed.

[0100] In the second step S201, it is determined that there is no version with the actual performance of "yes" and it is not confirmed whether power control protocol communication can be performed (in S201 it is "no"), so the process proceeds to step S203.

[0101] In step S203, processor 114a determines whether there exists a version with a past (previous) record of "cannot" and where the ability to perform power control protocol communication has not been confirmed. If, in step S203, it is determined that there exists a version with a past record of "cannot" and where the ability to perform power control protocol communication has not been confirmed (S203 is "Yes"), the process proceeds to step 204. If, in step S203, it is determined that there is no version with a past record of "cannot" and where the ability to perform power control protocol communication has not been confirmed (S203 is "No"), the process ends.

[0102] In step S204, processor 114a switches the version used for power control protocol communication to the highest priority version among the versions that previously (last time) had a record of "cannot" and whose ability to perform power control protocol communication was not confirmed. Specifically, in step S204, processor 114a switches the version used for power control protocol communication from version C to version A.

[0103] Then, the process proceeds to step S205, where the performance of communicating using the power control protocol of version C is changed to "No".

[0104] Then, the process returns to steps S16 and S17, repeating the process after step S17. This time, in step S17, communication using the version switched in step 204 begins. Specifically, in the third step S17, communication using version A begins. Furthermore, in the third step S20, it is determined whether communication using the power control protocol of version A has failed.

[0105] In the third step S201, it is determined that there is no version with a performance of "Yes" and an unconfirmed ability to perform power control protocol communication (in step S201, it is "No"), so the process proceeds to step S203. Furthermore, in the second step S203, it is determined that there is no version with a performance of "No" and an unconfirmed ability to perform power control protocol communication (in step S203, it is "No"), so the process ends.

[0106] Furthermore, if in the second step S203 there is a version where the result is "cannot" and it is not confirmed whether power control protocol communication can be performed (let's say version D) (in step S203 it is "yes"), the process proceeds to step S204. In this case, versions A and D are examples of the "first version" and "second version" of this disclosure, respectively.

[0107] On the other hand, in step S21, based on the version of the power control protocol that was confirmed in step S20, power control between electric vehicle 110 and EVSE20 is initiated.

[0108] Then, in step S22, processor 114a controls communication unit 113 to update the performance of power control protocol communication stored in memory 202 of server 200. Specifically, if power control protocol communication using version A, which previously had a performance of "cannot," is determined to be successful in step S20 ("no" in S20), the performance of power control protocol communication using version A is changed to "can" (see reference). Figure 7 ).

[0109] Furthermore, the other structures of the second embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment described above.

[0110] As described above, in the first and second embodiments, the processor 14a (114a) determines the version used for power control protocol communication based on the aforementioned priority. This allows for the suppression, as far as possible, of versions with low priority and unsuitable for power control protocol communication from being used in power control protocol communication.

[0111] Furthermore, in the first and second embodiments described above, an example of switching control to use a lower-priority version is shown in the event of power control protocol communication failure, but this disclosure is not limited thereto. Processing can also be terminated directly if power control protocol communication fails with the version initially selected based on priority.

[0112] Furthermore, in the first and second embodiments described above, examples of switching control to use a version with a lower priority level are shown in the event of power control protocol communication failure, but this disclosure is not limited thereto. Switching control to use a version with a lower priority level of two or more levels is also possible in the event of power control protocol communication failure.

[0113] Furthermore, in the second embodiment described above, an example was shown where the version of the power control protocol communication was determined based on whether the previous power control protocol communication could be performed; however, this disclosure is not limited to this. For example, the version of the power control protocol communication could also be determined based on whether the success rate of the power control protocol communication up to the last time was above a predetermined value.

[0114] Furthermore, in the second embodiment described above, an example was shown where communication using multiple versions with a performance rating of "capable" fails, but this disclosure is not limited to this. It is also possible to avoid switching to communication using the version with a performance rating of "capable".

[0115] Furthermore, in the second embodiment described above, an example is shown where priority-related information and performance-related information related to power control protocol communication are stored on server 200, but this disclosure is not limited thereto. Priority-related information and performance-related information related to power control protocol communication may also be stored on different servers.

[0116] Furthermore, in the first and second embodiments described above, examples were shown where the communication unit 13 (113) and EVSE20 correspond to three versions (A to C), respectively, but this disclosure is not limited thereto. The communication unit 13 (113) may also correspond to two or more versions. In addition, the EVSE20 may also correspond to one, two, or more versions.

[0117] Furthermore, in the first and second embodiments described above, an example is shown of determining the version used in power control protocol communication for initiating power control based on priority; however, this disclosure is not limited thereto. The version used in power control protocol communication during power control can also be determined based on priority.

[0118] The above variations can also be implemented in any combination.

[0119] The embodiments disclosed herein should be considered illustrative rather than restrictive in all respects. The scope of this disclosure is set forth in the claims, rather than in the description of the foregoing embodiments, and is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope equivalent to the claims.

Claims

1. An electric vehicle capable of power control, the power control comprising at least one of charging from a power station corresponding to at least one version of a predetermined communication standard and supplying power to the power station, wherein, The electric vehicles include: The communication unit corresponds to multiple versions of the predetermined communication standard; and The control unit controls the communication unit to ensure that power control protocol communication between the electric vehicle and the power station uses the predetermined communication standard, wherein... The communication unit acquires information related to past communication performance of the power control protocol corresponding to each of the multiple versions. The control unit determines the version used for the power control protocol communication based on information related to the actual performance. Information related to the performance record includes information related to past ability to communicate using the power control protocol. The multiple versions include versions that were previously able to communicate using the power control protocol and versions that were previously unable to communicate using the power control protocol. The control unit determines the version that was previously capable of performing the power control protocol communication as the version used for the power control protocol communication. If all versions of the power control protocol communication that were previously capable of performing such communication fail, the control unit controls the switching to the version that was previously incapable of performing such communication.

2. The electric vehicle according to claim 1, wherein, If the control unit successfully communicates with a version of the power control protocol that previously could not, it controls the communication unit to update information related to whether or not the power control protocol communication can be performed, corresponding to the version that successfully communicated with the power control protocol.

3. The electric vehicle according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The communication unit is configured to communicate with a server that stores information related to the performance of the communication with the power control protocol. The control unit controls the communication unit to obtain information related to the performance of the communication with the power control protocol from the server.

4. An electric vehicle system, comprising: The power station corresponds to at least one version of the predetermined communication standard; An electric vehicle capable of electrical control, the electrical control including at least one of charging from the power station and supplying power to the power station, wherein... The electric vehicle includes a communication unit and a control unit. The communication unit corresponds to multiple versions of the predetermined communication standard, and the control unit controls the communication unit to ensure that power control protocol communication between the electric vehicle and the power station uses the predetermined communication standard. The communication unit acquires information related to past communication performance of the power control protocol corresponding to each of the multiple versions. The control unit determines the version used for the power control protocol communication based on information related to the actual performance. Information related to the performance record includes information related to past ability to communicate using the power control protocol. The multiple versions include versions that were previously able to communicate using the power control protocol and versions that were previously unable to communicate using the power control protocol. The control unit determines the version that was previously capable of performing the power control protocol communication as the version used for the power control protocol communication. If all versions of the power control protocol communication that were previously capable of performing such communication fail, the control unit controls the switching to the version that was previously incapable of performing such communication.

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