Vehicle-mounted system, relay device, and central relay device

Abstract

This vehicle-mounted system is provided with: a first relay device that, when receiving a first activation signal, executes a first activation process for activating the first relay device, and that, when receiving a second activation signal, executes a second activation process for activating the third relay device; and a transmission unit that transmits, to the central relay device, a second activation signal requesting activation of the central relay device, the central relay device executing a second activation process for activating the central relay device when receiving the second activation signal, and transmitting, to the central relay device, a second activation process for activating the central relay device when receiving the second activation signal. After transmitting the second activation signal to the central relay device, the first relay device notifies the central relay device of the main cause of activation of the first relay device, and the central relay device transmits the second activation signal to the central relay device on the basis of the main cause of activation notified from the first relay device. And determining a device which needs to be started in the second relay device and the third relay device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to vehicle-mounted systems, relay devices, and central relay devices. This application claims priority based on Japanese Application No. 2023-171813, filed on October 3, 2023, and incorporates the entire contents of the aforementioned Japanese application. Background Technology

[0002] Vehicles are equipped with various in-vehicle devices, including ECUs (Electronic Control Units) for controlling the engine, transmission, etc.; ECUs for controlling the body system, such as headlights and power windows; and ECUs for information systems such as navigation devices and multimedia equipment. These in-vehicle devices are connected to the vehicle network and can communicate with each other.

[0003] Patent Document 1 discloses a vehicle control system that implements intelligent entry functionality. In this vehicle control system, in advance start mode, when a touch sensor detects a touch on the vehicle's door handle, the entry ECU receives identification information from a portable device such as an FOB located outside the vehicle and sends a first start request to the central ECU. The entry ECU performs a first authentication process, which is executed before the first start request is sent in normal mode, but after the first start request is sent in advance start mode. Upon receiving the first start request, the central ECU performs start processing, transitioning from a dormant state to a normal operating state. After completing the start processing, the central ECU sends a second start request to the door control ECU. After sending the second start request, the central ECU performs gateway processing based on the result of the first authentication process. Upon receiving the second start request, the door control ECU performs start processing, transitioning from a dormant state to a normal operating state. In the normal operating state, the door control ECU performs door unlocking processing based on the result of the first authentication process transmitted from the central ECU. In the vehicle control system disclosed in Patent Document 1, this advance start mode improves the responsiveness from the door unlocking indication to unlocking completion.

[0004] Existing technical documents

[0005] Patent documents

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2022-118509 Summary of the Invention

[0007] One aspect of the vehicle-mounted system disclosed herein includes: a first relay device, a second relay device, and a third relay device for relaying communication between devices connected to a vehicle-mounted network; and a central relay device for relaying communication between the first relay device, the second relay device, and the third relay device. Upon receiving a first start signal from a device connected to the first relay device, the first relay device executes a first start process to start the first relay device and sends a second start signal to the central relay device. The first start signal requests the start of the first relay device, and the second start signal requests the start of the central relay device. Upon receiving the second start signal, the central relay device executes a first start process to start the first relay device. In the second startup process for activating the central relay device, after the first relay device sends the second startup signal to the central relay device, it performs a startup main reason determination process to determine the main reason for the startup of the first relay device. If the main reason for startup is determined, the main reason for startup is notified to the central relay device. Based on the main reason for startup notified from the first relay device, the central relay device determines which device among the second relay device and the third relay device needs to be activated. If the activation of the second relay device is required but the activation of the third relay device is not required, the central relay device sends a third startup signal to the second relay device, and the third startup signal requests the activation of the second relay device. Attached Figure Description

[0008] Figure 1 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the structure of an in-vehicle system according to an implementation method.

[0009] Figure 2 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the hardware structure of a central relay device in an implementation scheme.

[0010] Figure 3 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the hardware structure of a relay device in an implementation.

[0011] Figure 4 This is a diagram showing the connection method between the central relay device and the relay device in the implementation method.

[0012] Figure 5 This is a functional block diagram illustrating an example of a central relay device and the functions of the relay device in an embodiment.

[0013] Figure 6 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the central relay device and the startup sequence of the relay device in the vehicle system of this embodiment.

[0014] Figure 7This is a timing diagram illustrating an example of a central relay device and the start-up timing of the relay device in a conventional vehicle system.

[0015] Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the startup sequence of a relay device in an implementation method.

[0016] Figure 9 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the startup sequence of a central relay device in an implementation method.

[0017] Figure 10A This is a timing diagram illustrating an example of the central relay device and the start-up timing of the relay device in the vehicle system of this embodiment.

[0018] Figure 10B This is a timing diagram illustrating an example of the central relay device and the start-up timing of the relay device in the vehicle system of this embodiment.

[0019] Figure 11 This is a diagram illustrating a variation of the connection method between the central relay device and the relay device in the implementation embodiment.

[0020] Figure 12 This is a timing diagram illustrating an example of a central relay device and the start-up timing of the relay device in a modified vehicle-mounted system. Detailed Implementation

[0021] <The problem this disclosure aims to solve>

[0022] To provide a certain service (function) to a user, it is sufficient to activate the on-board unit used to provide that service; sometimes, it is not necessary to activate other on-board units. However, in the vehicle control system disclosed in Patent Document 1, it is impossible to distinguish between on-board units that need to be activated and those that do not, based on the situation.

[0023] <Effects of this disclosure>

[0024] According to this disclosure, it is possible to distinguish between vehicle-mounted devices that need to be started and vehicle-mounted devices that do not need to be started, and to start the vehicle-mounted devices that need to be started.

[0025] <Summary of embodiments of this disclosure>

[0026] Hereinafter, a summary of the embodiments of this disclosure will be described.

[0027] (1) The vehicle-mounted system of this embodiment includes: a first relay device, a second relay device, and a third relay device for relaying communication between devices connected to a vehicle network; and a central relay device for relaying communication between the first relay device, the second relay device, and the third relay device. When the first relay device receives a first start signal from a device connected to the first relay device, it executes a first start process to start the first relay device and sends a second start signal to the central relay device. The first start signal requests the start of the first relay device, and the second start signal requests the start of the central relay device. When the central relay device receives the second start signal, it executes... A second startup process for activating the central relay device involves the first relay device, after sending the second startup signal to the central relay device, performing a startup main reason determination process to determine the main reason for the startup of the first relay device. If the main reason for startup is determined, it is notified to the central relay device. Based on the startup main reason notified from the first relay device, the central relay device determines which of the second and third relay devices needs to be activated. If the activation of the second relay device is required but the activation of the third relay device is not required, a third startup signal is sent to the second relay device requesting its activation. This allows for the differentiation between the second relay device that needs to be activated and the third relay device that does not need to be activated, enabling the second relay device that needs to be activated to be activated.

[0028] (2) In (1) above, the central relay device may also include a first processing circuit and a second processing circuit, and the second startup process is a process that starts the first processing circuit but does not start the second processing circuit. Thus, in the second startup process, the power consumption of the central relay device can be suppressed.

[0029] (3) In (1) above, the central relay device may also include a first processing circuit and a second processing circuit, and the second startup process is a process that starts the first processing circuit and the second processing circuit respectively. Thus, the central relay device after startup can perform the functions performed by the first processing circuit and the second processing circuit respectively.

[0030] (4) In (2) or (3) above, the first processing circuit may also perform a startup object determination process based on the main startup reason, which determines the device that needs to be started in the second relay device and the third relay device. Thus, the startup object determination process can be performed by the first processing circuit that is started by the second startup process.

[0031] (5) In any of (2) to (4) above, the first startup time required for the first processing circuit to start is shorter than the second startup time required for the second processing circuit to start. Thus, the function executed by the first processing circuit can be performed in advance.

[0032] (6) In any of (2) to (5) above, the power consumption of the first processing circuit is lower than that of the second processing circuit. Thus, when the first processing circuit is started but the second processing circuit is not started, the overall power consumption of the central relay device can be suppressed.

[0033] (7) In (3) above, the first processing circuit may also be connected to the first relay device via a first communication line, connected to the second relay device via a second communication line, and connected to the third relay device via a third communication line. The first, second, and third communication lines may branch off, and each branch end of the first, second, and third communication lines may be connected to the second processing circuit. Thus, the first and second processing circuits can respectively receive a second start signal from the first relay device, enabling them to start.

[0034] (8) In any of (2) to (6) above, the first processing circuit may be connected to the first relay device via a first communication line, the first processing circuit may be connected to the second relay device via a second communication line, the first processing circuit may be connected to the third relay device via a third communication line, and the second processing circuit may be connected to the first processing circuit via a fourth communication line. Thus, the first processing circuit can receive a second start signal from the first relay device, thereby activating the first processing circuit.

[0035] (9) In any of (2) to (8) above, the first processing circuit may also perform the functions used in the operation of the first relay device, the second relay device, and the third relay device. Thus, the relay device that needs to be activated can be activated by the first processing circuit.

[0036] (10) The relay device of this embodiment relays communication between devices connected to a vehicle network. The relay device includes: a receiving unit that receives a first start signal from the device, the first start signal requesting the relay device to start; a start unit that, upon receiving the first start signal, performs a start process to start the relay device; a sending unit that sends a second start signal to a central relay device, the second start signal requesting the central relay device to start, which relays communication between multiple relay devices; a determining unit that, after sending the second start signal to the central relay device, performs a start main cause determining process to determine the main cause of the relay device's start; and a notification unit that, if the start main cause is determined by the start main cause determining process, notifies the central relay device of the start main cause. This allows the central relay device to start earlier.

[0037] (11) The central relay device of this embodiment is connected to a first relay device, a second relay device, and a third relay device. The central relay device includes: a start signal receiving unit that receives a second start signal from the first relay device, which is started by a first start signal, the second start signal requesting the start of the central relay device; a start unit that, upon receiving the second start signal from the start signal receiving unit, performs a start process to start the central relay device; a notification receiving unit that, after starting the start process, receives a notification from the first relay device of a primary reason for the start of the first relay device; a determination unit that, based on the primary reason for the start notification from the first relay device, performs a start target determination process, the start target determination process determining which device among the second relay device and the third relay device needs to be started; and a sending unit that, if the result of the start target determination process is that the second relay device needs to be started but the third relay device does not need to be started, sends a third start signal to the second relay device, the third start signal requesting the start of the second relay device. Thus, it is possible to distinguish between the second relay device that needs to be started and the third relay device that does not need to be started, and to start the second relay device that needs to be started.

[0038] This disclosure can be implemented not only as an in-vehicle system having the aforementioned characteristic structure, a relay device included in an in-vehicle system, and a central relay device included in an in-vehicle system, but also as a relay method including characteristic steps performed in an in-vehicle system, or as a program for causing the relay device to perform characteristic processing, or as a program for causing the central relay device to perform characteristic processing, or as a part or all of the relay device as a semiconductor integrated circuit, or as a part or all of the central relay device as a semiconductor integrated circuit.

[0039] <Detailed description of the embodiments of this disclosure>

[0040] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, at least a portion of the embodiments described below may be combined in any manner.

[0041] [1. In-vehicle system]

[0042] Figure 1 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the structure of an in-vehicle system according to an implementation method.

[0043] The vehicle system 10 is mounted on a vehicle. The vehicle system 10 includes a central relay device 100 and relay devices 200_1, 200_2, 200_3, and 200_4.

[0044] The central relay device 100 relays communication between relay devices 200_1, 200_2, 200_3, and 200_4. The central relay device 100 includes four communication ports, with relay devices 200_1, 200_2, 200_3, and 200_4 connected to each port. Specifically, relay device 200_1 is connected to communication port 150_1 via communication line 400_1; relay device 200_2 is connected to communication port 150_2 via communication line 400_2; relay device 200_3 is connected to communication port 150_3 via communication line 400_3; and relay device 200_4 is connected to communication port 150_4 via communication line 400_4.

[0045] The vehicle system 10 in this embodiment is composed of a vehicle network using a specific communication protocol. The communication protocol is, for example, CAN (Controller Area Network), CAN FD (CAN with Flexible Data Rate), or Ethernet (“Ethernet” is a registered trademark). The central relay device 100 and relay devices 200_1, 200_2, 200_3, and 200_4 are, for example, a gateway ECU that relays CAN frames, an Ethernet switch that relays Ethernet frames, etc.

[0046] Relay devices 200_1, 200_2, 200_3, and 200_4 are each connected to one or more devices. Figure 1 In this example, relay device 200_1 is connected to ECU (Electronic Control Unit) 301_1, sensor 302_1, and actuator 303_1. Relay device 200_2 is connected to ECU 301_2, sensor 302_2, and actuator 303_2. Relay device 200_3 is connected to ECU 301_3, sensor 302_3, and actuator 303_3. Relay device 200_4 is connected to ECU 301_4, sensor 302_4, and actuator 303_4.

[0047] Furthermore, in the following description, relay devices 200_1, 200_2, 200_3, and 200_4 will be collectively referred to as "relay device 200". ECUs 301_1, 301_2, 301_3, and 301_4 will be collectively referred to as "ECU 301". Sensors 302_1, 302_2, 302_3, and 302_4 will be collectively referred to as "sensor 302". Actuators 303_1, 303_2, 303_3, and 303_4 will be collectively referred to as "actuator 303".

[0048] The relay device 200 relays communication between multiple ECUs 301, multiple sensors 302, and multiple actuators 303. Furthermore, the relay device 200 can also have functions for controlling various parts of the vehicle. For example, relay device 200_1 has the function of controlling door locks. For example, relay device 200_2 has the function of controlling side markers. For example, relay device 200_3 has the function of controlling the engine. For example, relay device 200_4 has the function of controlling transmission. Thus, the relay device 200 functions as an ECU.

[0049] The central relay device 100 may also have functions for controlling various parts of the vehicle. For example, the central relay device 100 may have an automatic driving function.

[0050] The central relay device 100 and the relay device 200 can also function as multiple ECUs. For example, the central relay device 100 can also have automatic driving functions and collision avoidance assistance functions.

[0051] For example, ECU 301_1 is the ECU used for authentication. When the portable device (FOB key) enters the radio wave receiving range around the vehicle, ECU 301_1 wirelessly communicates with the portable device and receives the authentication code from it. ECU 301_1 performs electronic authentication by comparing the authentication code. For example, sensor 302_1 is a touch sensor installed on the door handle. Sensor 302_1 outputs a detection signal when it detects that the user (driver) has touched the door handle. For example, actuator 303_1 is a motor that drives the door lock. For example, relay device 200_1 controls actuator 303_1 to unlock the door when authentication based on ECU 201_1 is successful and the touch of the door handle is detected by sensor 302_1.

[0052] For example, actuator 303_2 is an LED (Light Emitting Diode) for side markers. For example, sensor 302_2 is a position sensor mounted on the vehicle's turn signal stalk. For example, when sensor 302_2 detects operation of the turn signal stalk, relay device 200_2 controls actuator 303_2 to cause the LED for side markers to flash.

[0053] For example, sensor 302_3 is an engine speed sensor, and sensor 302_4 is a gear position sensor. For example, relay device 200_3 uses the detected engine speed value output from sensor 302_3 to control the engine. For example, relay device 200_4 uses the detected gear position value output from sensor 302_4 to control the transmission. For example, relay device 200_3 relays the detected engine speed value output from sensor 302_3 to central relay device 100. Relay device 200_4 relays the detected gear position value output from sensor 302_4 to central relay device 100. Central relay device 100 uses the received engine speed and gear position detection values ​​to perform automatic driving processing.

[0054] The central relay device 100 and each relay device 200 have a low-power sleep function. That is, the central relay device 100 and the relay device 200 switch between a sleep state (hereinafter also referred to as the "stopped state") where some functions (except for the function of receiving the start signal) are stopped, and an operating state where the device is working (hereinafter also referred to as the "started state"). Specifically, the central relay device 100 and the relay device 200 are woken up (started) by receiving a start signal in the stop state, and switch from the stop state to the start state.

[0055] [2. Hardware Structure of the Central Relay Device]

[0056] Figure 2 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the hardware structure of the central relay device according to this embodiment. The central relay device 100 includes a first processing circuit 110 and a second processing circuit 120.

[0057] The first processing circuit 110 is, for example, a single-chip semiconductor integrated circuit, and in a specific example, a microcontroller. The first processing circuit 110 includes a processor 111, a non-volatile memory 112, a volatile memory 113, peripheral circuitry 114, and an interface (I / F) 115.

[0058] Volatile memory 113 is, for example, semiconductor memory such as SRAM (Static Random Access Memory) and DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory). Non-volatile memory 112 is, for example, semiconductor memory such as flash memory, ROM (Read Only Memory), EPROM (Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory), and EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory).

[0059] Processor 111 is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit). However, processor 111 is not limited to a CPU. Processor 111 can also be a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit). Processor 111 is configured to execute computer programs. However, processor 111 may, for example, partially include an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or partially include a programmable logic device such as a FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array).

[0060] The non-volatile memory 112 stores a first control program 130, which is a computer program, and the data used for executing the first control program 130. The first control program 130 can be stored in a recording medium such as flash memory, ROM, or CD-ROM. The processor 111 implements part of the functions of the central relay device 100 through the first control program 130.

[0061] Peripheral circuitry 114 is used to enable the first processing circuitry 110 to perform various functions. For example, peripheral circuitry 114 includes general purpose input / output ports (GPIO), analog-to-digital converters, timers, serial communication circuits, etc. Serial communication circuits may be based on standards such as UART (Universal Asynchronous Receiver / Transmitter), I2C (Inter-Integrated Circuit), and SPI (Serial Peripheral Interface).

[0062] Interface 115 includes input / output interfaces and communication interfaces. Specifically, interface 115 of the first processing circuit 110 includes at least four communication interfaces. Each communication interface includes a communication port. That is, interface 115 includes four communication ports 150_1, 150_2, 150_3, and 150_4 (refer to...). Figure 1 ).

[0063] The second processing circuit 120 is, for example, a single-chip semiconductor integrated circuit, specifically a SoC (System-on-a-Chip). The second processing circuit 120 includes a processor 121, non-volatile memory 122, volatile memory 123, peripheral circuitry 124, and an interface 125. The basic structures of the processor 121, non-volatile memory 122, volatile memory 123, peripheral circuitry 124, and interface 125 are the same as those of the processor 111, non-volatile memory 112, volatile memory 113, peripheral circuitry 114, and interface 115, and therefore their descriptions are omitted.

[0064] The non-volatile memory 122 stores the second control program 140, which is a computer program, and the data used for the execution of the second control program 140. The second control program 140 can be stored in a recording medium such as flash memory, ROM, or CD-ROM. The processor 121 implements the functions of the central relay device 100, other than those provided by the first control program 130, through the second control program 140.

[0065] Interface 125 includes, for example, at least four communication interfaces. Each communication interface includes a communication port. In this embodiment, no communication line is connected to the communication port of interface 125.

[0066] As described above, in this embodiment, the first processing circuit 110 is a microcontroller, and the second processing circuit 120 is a SoC (System-on-a-Chip). The second processing circuit 120 has a larger circuit scale than the first processing circuit 110 and is capable of performing complex processing. For example, the first processing circuit 110 operates using a real-time operating system (OS), while the second processing circuit 120 operates using a high-performance general-purpose OS (such as Linux).

[0067] For example, the startup time (first startup time) required for the first processing circuit 110 to start is shorter than the startup time (second startup time) required for the second processing circuit 120 to start. The first processing circuit 110 is capable of performing real-time processing (processing subject to time constraints). However, the functions that the first processing circuit 110 can perform are limited. In contrast, the second processing circuit 120 is equipped with a high-performance OS and is capable of performing processing for various purposes. However, the second processing circuit 120 cannot guarantee real-time responsiveness.

[0068] For example, the power consumption of the first processing circuit 110 is lower than that of the second processing circuit 120. Therefore, when only the function of the first processing circuit 110 is requested, by starting the first processing circuit 110 and stopping the second processing circuit 120, the overall power consumption of the central relay device 100 can be suppressed.

[0069] The first processing circuit 110 executes a first function used in the operation of each of the relay devices 200_1, 200_2, 200_3, and 200_4. That is, the first function is the basis for the operation of each of the relay devices 200_1, 200_2, 200_3, and 200_4. The second processing circuit 120 executes a second function not used in the operation of each of the relay devices 200_1, 200_2, 200_3, and 200_4. The first control program 130 provides the first function. The second control program 140 provides the second function. The first function may be, for example, a relay function for communication using the aforementioned communication protocol, a power management function for the entire vehicle system 10, or a function for accepting user operations. The second function may be, for example, an automatic driving function or a collision avoidance assist function.

[0070] [3. Hardware structure of the relay device]

[0071] Figure 3This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the hardware structure of the relay device according to this embodiment. The relay device 200 includes, for example, a processor 201, a non-volatile memory 202, a volatile memory 203, peripheral circuitry 204, and an interface 205. The basic structures of the processor 201, non-volatile memory 202, volatile memory 203, peripheral circuitry 204, and interface 205 are the same as the basic structures of the processor 111, non-volatile memory 112, volatile memory 113, peripheral circuitry 114, and interface 115, therefore, descriptions are omitted.

[0072] The non-volatile memory 202 stores the control program 210, which is a computer program, and the data used for executing the control program 210. The control program 210 can be stored in a recording medium such as flash memory, ROM, or CD-ROM. The processor 201 performs the function of a relay device 200 through the control program 210.

[0073] Control program 210 may provide, for example, a relay function for communication using the aforementioned communication protocol. Control program 210 may also provide functions as an ECU, such as door lock control, side marker control, engine control, or transmission control.

[0074] Interface 205 includes, for example, at least four communication interfaces. Each communication interface includes a communication port. In this embodiment, interface 205 includes a communication port connected to the central relay device 100, a communication port connected to the ECU 301, a communication port connected to the sensor 302, and a communication port connected to the actuator 303.

[0075] [4. Connection method between central relay device and relay device]

[0076] The connection method between the central relay device 100 and the relay devices 200_1, 200_2, 200_3, and 200_4 in this embodiment will be described below. Figure 4 This diagram illustrates the connection method between the central relay device 100 and the relay devices 200_1, 200_2, 200_3, and 200_4 in the embodiment.

[0077] In this embodiment, relay device 200_1 is connected to the first processing circuit 110 (interface 115) via communication line 400_1. Relay device 200_2 is connected to the first processing circuit 110 via communication line 400_2. Relay device 200_3 is connected to the first processing circuit 110 via communication line 400_3. Relay device 200_4 is connected to the first processing circuit 110 via communication line 400_4.

[0078] The first processing circuit 110 and the second processing circuit 120 are connected via a communication line 410. More specifically, the interface 115 of the first processing circuit 110 and the interface 125 of the second processing circuit 120 are connected via the communication line 410 (see reference). Figure 2 ).

[0079] In this embodiment, relay devices 200_1, 200_2, 200_3, and 200_4 are not directly connected to the second processing circuit 120. Therefore, signals or frames sent from relay devices 200 to communication lines 400 are received by the first processing circuit 110, and not by the second processing circuit 120.

[0080] [5. Central relay device and its functions]

[0081] Figure 5 This is a functional block diagram illustrating an example of the central relay device and the function of the relay device in this embodiment.

[0082] The central relay device 100 has the functions of a start signal receiving unit 131, a start unit 132, a notification receiving unit 133, a determination unit 134, and a transmission unit 135. The relay device 200 has the functions of a receiving unit 211, a start unit 212, a transmission unit 213, a determination unit 214, and a notification unit 215.

[0083] The start signal receiving unit 131 and the start unit 132 are provided by the operating system of the interface 115 or the first processing circuit 110. The notification receiving unit 133, the determination unit 134, and the sending unit 135 are provided by the processor 111 executing the first control program 130. The receiving unit 211 and the start unit 212 are provided by the operating system of the interface 205 or the relay device 200. The sending unit 213, the determination unit 214, and the notification unit 215 are provided by the processor 201 executing the control program 210.

[0084] The receiving unit 211 receives a start signal (first start signal) from peripheral devices connected to the relay device 200. The peripheral devices are ECU 301, sensor 302, and actuator 303 connected to the relay device 200, and are examples of "devices". The first start signal is a signal requesting the relay device 200 to start. For example, in the case of CAN or CAN FD, the start signal is dominant; in the case of Ethernet, the start signal is a magic packet.

[0085] When the receiving unit 211 receives the first start signal, the starting unit 212 performs a start-up process to start the relay device 200.

[0086] Figure 6 This diagram illustrates an example of the central relay device and the startup sequence of the relay device in the vehicle-mounted system of this embodiment. Figure 6In the example shown, ECU 301_1, acting as a peripheral device of relay device 200_1, sends a first start signal. Relay device 200_1 receives the first start signal and starts.

[0087] return Figure 5 When the relay device 200 is started, that is, when the start-up process is completed, the transmitting unit 213 sends a start signal (second start signal) to the central relay device 100. The second start signal is a signal requesting the central relay device 100 to start.

[0088] The start signal receiving unit 131 receives the second start signal. When the start signal receiving unit 131 receives the second start signal, the start unit 132 performs start-up processing to start the central relay device 100.

[0089] Reference Figure 6 The activated relay device 200_1 sends a second activation signal to the central relay device 100. The central relay device 100 receives the second activation signal and activates.

[0090] return Figure 5 After the transmitting unit 213 sends the second start signal to the central relay device 100, the determining unit 214 performs a start-up main cause determination process to determine the main cause of the relay device 200's start. For example, if the authentication code based on the key FOB of ECU 301_1 is successfully matched, the relay device 200_1 with door lock control function receives the first start signal from ECU 301_1 and starts. In this example, the main cause of the relay device 200_1's start is the receipt of the first start signal from ECU 301_1, and the determining unit determines the main cause of the start by judging the source of the first start signal.

[0091] For example, during the main cause determination process, the relay device 200 that needs to be activated can also be identified. In the example described above, when the door lock is released, the side indicator flashes a predetermined number of times to notify the driver that the door lock has been released. Therefore, in preparation for the door lock release, the relay device 200_2, which has a side indicator control function, needs to be activated in advance. During the main cause determination process, the determination unit 214 can identify the relay device 200_2 as the target for activation.

[0092] If the main cause of startup is determined through the main cause determination process, the notification unit 215 notifies the central relay device 100 of the determined main cause of startup.

[0093] Before the main cause determination process begins, a second start signal is sent to the central relay device 100. Therefore, when the main cause of startup is determined, the central relay device 100 (first processing circuit 110) has completed startup or is close to completing startup. Thus, the main cause of startup can be notified to the central relay device 100 in advance after it has been determined.

[0094] After the startup unit 132 starts the startup process, the notification receiving unit 133 of the central relay device 100 receives a notification of the main reason for the startup of the relay device 200 from the relay device 200.

[0095] The determination unit 134 performs a startup target determination process based on the primary startup reason notified from the relay device 200. The startup target determination process determines the relay device 200 that needs to be started. In the example above, the primary startup reason is that the source of the first startup signal is ECU 301_1. In this case, since the source of the first startup signal is ECU 301_1 in the primary startup reason determination process, the determination unit 214 can determine the relay device 200_2 as the target for startup.

[0096] For example, a correspondence table showing the correspondence between the source of the first start signal, which is the main reason for starting, and the relay device 200 that is the target for starting is stored in the non-volatile memory 112, and the determination unit 134 can also determine the target for starting by comparing the notified main reason for starting with the main reason for starting in the correspondence table.

[0097] The transmitting unit 135 sends a start signal (third start signal) to the relay device 200, which has been determined by the start target determination process. (See reference...) Figure 6 In the example above, if the result of the start-up target determination process is that the start-up of relay device 200_2 (the second vehicle-mounted device) is required but the start-up of relay devices 200_3 and 200_4 (the third vehicle-mounted device) is not required, the transmitting unit 135 sends a third start signal to relay device 200_2, but does not send a third start signal to relay devices 200_3 and 200_4. Thus, relay device 200_2 starts, while relay devices 200_3 and 200_4 remain in a stopped state.

[0098] [6. Operation of the vehicle system]

[0099] The following uses Figure 6 The example illustrates the operation of the vehicle system 10.

[0100] Figure 7 This is a timing diagram illustrating an example of a central relay device and the start-up timing of the relay device in an existing vehicle system.

[0101] The central relay device 100 and all relay devices 200 of the vehicle system 10 are in a stopped state. In this state, when the key FOB enters the vehicle's radio wave receiving range, the ECU 301_1 receives the authentication code sent from the key FOB. When the ECU 301_1 successfully verifies the authentication code received from the key FOB, it sends a first start signal to the relay device 200_1 (time t0).

[0102] At the moment t0 when the relay device 200_1 receives the first start signal, the relay device 200_1 begins the start process (first start process).

[0103] At time t1, the first startup process ends, and relay device 200_1 starts the main cause determination process.

[0104] At time t2, the process of determining the primary cause of startup ends. At time t2, relay device 200_1 sends a startup signal (second startup signal) and the determined primary cause of startup to central relay device 100.

[0105] At time t2 when the central relay device 100 receives the second start signal, the central relay device 100 begins the start process (second start process). When the second start process ends, the central relay device 100 performs the start target determination process.

[0106] At time t3, the process of determining the target device for startup ends, and relay device 200_2 is determined to be the target device for startup. At time t3, the central relay device 100 sends a startup signal (third startup signal) and the main reason for startup to the relay device 200_2 of the target device for startup.

[0107] At time t3, relay device 200_2 receives the third start signal and the main start reason, and executes the start process. When the start process ends, relay device 200_2 executes the start target determination process. For example, in this start target determination process, the notified main start reason can be used. In this start target determination process, if relay device 200_2 is not the start target, relay device 200_2 transitions from the start state to the stop state.

[0108] Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the startup sequence of the relay device in this embodiment. Figure 8 The flowchart shows the initially activated relay device 200 ( Figure 6 The startup sequence of the relay device 200_1 in the example.

[0109] The relay device 200 receives a first start signal from the peripheral device (step S101). When the reception of the first start signal is detected, the processor 201 executes the start process (step S102).

[0110] When the startup process is completed, the processor 201 sends a second startup signal to the central relay device 100 (step S103).

[0111] After the second startup signal is sent, the processor 201 executes the startup primary cause determination process (step S104). The processor 201 notifies (sends) the determined startup primary cause to the central relay device 100 (step S105). The startup sequence of the relay device 200 then ends.

[0112] Figure 9 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the startup sequence of the central relay device in this embodiment.

[0113] The central relay device 100 receives a second start signal from the previously started relay device 200 (step S201). When the reception of the second start signal is detected, the processor 111 of the first processing circuit 110 executes the start process (step S202).

[0114] Processor 111 receives the primary reason for startup sent from relay device 200 (step S203). Processor 111 performs startup object determination processing based on the notified primary reason for startup (step S204).

[0115] When the processor 111 determines the target to be started, it sends a third start signal and the main reason for starting to the relay device 200 of the target to be started (step S205). The start sequence of the central relay device 100 ends here.

[0116] Figure 10A and Figure 10B This is a timing diagram illustrating an example of the central relay device and the start-up timing of the relay device in the vehicle system of this embodiment. Figure 10A This indicates the time progression of the overall status of the central relay device 100. Figure 10B The time progression represents the state of the first processing circuit 110 and the second processing circuit 120, respectively.

[0117] and Figure 7 Similarly, at time t0, ECU301_1 sends the first start signal to relay device 200_1.

[0118] At time t0, relay device 200_1 receives the first start signal and begins the start process (first start process).

[0119] When the first startup process ends at time t1, the relay device 200_1 sends a second startup signal to the central relay device 100.

[0120] like Figure 10AAs shown, at time t1, the central relay device 100 receives the second start signal and the central relay device 100 starts the start process (second start process).

[0121] Specifically, such as Figure 10B As shown, at time t1, the first processing circuit 110 receives the second start signal and begins the second start process.

[0122] After the second start signal is sent, the relay device 200_1 starts the main cause determination process.

[0123] At time t2, the primary cause determination process ends. Relay device 200_1 notifies the central relay device 100 (first processing circuit 110) of the determined primary cause of startup. When the second startup process ends, the central relay device 100 (first processing circuit 110) performs a startup object determination process based on the notified primary cause of startup. Furthermore, in this example, the timing for relay device 200_1 to end the primary cause determination process and the timing for the central relay device 100 to end the second startup process are set to the same, but the two timings can also be different.

[0124] At time t31, the object determination process ends. This time t31 is compared to... Figure 7 In the example, the starting object determines the time t3 earlier than (t2-t1) the time of the processing end (i.e., the time of processing is determined based on the main reason for the start of relay device 200_1).

[0125] At time t31, the central relay device 100 sends a start signal (third start signal) and the main reason for start to the start target.

[0126] Assume that the second processing circuit 120 and the relay device 200_2 are identified as the startup targets. In this case, such as Figure 10B As shown, the first processing circuit 110 sends the third start signal and the main reason for start-up to the second processing circuit 120 and the relay device 200_2, respectively. Thus, the second processing circuit 120 and the relay device 200_2 are started.

[0127] [7. Variations]

[0128] Figure 11 This is a diagram showing a modified example of the connection method between the central relay device 100 and the relay devices 200_1, 200_2, 200_3, and 200_4 in the embodiment.

[0129] In this modified example, relay device 200_1 is connected to the first processing circuit 110 (interface 115) via communication line 401_1. Relay device 200_2 is connected to the first processing circuit 110 via communication line 401_2. Relay device 200_3 is connected to the first processing circuit 110 via communication line 401_3. Relay device 200_4 is connected to the first processing circuit 110 via communication line 401_4.

[0130] The first processing circuit 110 and the second processing circuit 120 are connected by a communication line 410.

[0131] In this modified example, communication lines 401_1, 401_2, 401_3, and 401_4 branch off midway. Branch line 402_1 extends midway from communication line 401_1 and connects to the second processing circuit 120 (interface 125). Branch line 402_2 extends midway from communication line 401_2 and connects to the second processing circuit 120. Branch line 402_3 extends midway from communication line 401_3 and connects to the second processing circuit 120. Branch line 402_4 extends midway from communication line 401_4 and connects to the second processing circuit 120.

[0132] Figure 12 This is a timing diagram illustrating an example of the central relay device and the start-up timing of the relay device in the vehicle-mounted system of this variant.

[0133] At time t0, ECU301_1 sends the first start signal to relay device 200_1.

[0134] At time t0, relay device 200_1 receives the first start signal and begins the start process (first start process).

[0135] When the first startup process ends at time t1, the relay device 200_1 sends a second startup signal to the central relay device 100.

[0136] In this modified example, at time t1, the first processing circuit 110 and the second processing circuit 120 respectively receive the second start signal. The first processing circuit 110 and the second processing circuit 120 start processing upon receiving the second start signal.

[0137] After sending the start signal, relay device 200_1 begins the main cause determination process.

[0138] At time t2, the process of determining the primary cause of startup is complete. Relay device 200_1 notifies the central relay device 100 of the determined primary cause of startup.

[0139] In this modified example, using the connection method described above, the first processing circuit 110 and the second processing circuit 120 respectively receive the main startup reason sent from the relay device 200_1. The first processing circuit 110 and the second processing circuit 120 respectively perform startup object determination processing based on the notified main startup reason.

[0140] At time t31, the startup target determination process of the first processing circuit 110 and the second processing circuit 120 ends. Furthermore, for the sake of simplicity, it is assumed that the startup target determination processes of the first processing circuit 110 and the second processing circuit 120 end at the same timing, but this is not a limitation. The startup target determination processes of the first processing circuit 110 and the second processing circuit 120 may also end at different timings.

[0141] At time t31, the central relay device 100 sends a start signal (third start signal) and the main reason for start to the relay device 200_2 (and the second processing circuit 120) that is to be started.

[0142] [8. Other variations]

[0143] In the above-described embodiment, the initially activated relay device 200_1 determines the primary reason for activation, and the central relay device 100 determines the activation target based on the primary reason for activation notified from the relay device 200_1, but is not limited thereto. For example, the relay device 200_1 may also determine the activation target based on the primary reason for activation and notify the central relay device 100 of the activation target. In this case, the activation target determination process of the central relay device 100 (and the subsequently activated relay device 200_2) may be omitted.

[0144] In the above embodiment, the first processing circuit 110 is composed of a microcontroller and the second processing circuit 120 is composed of a SoC, but it is not limited thereto. The first processing circuit 110 and the second processing circuit 120 can be composed of microcontrollers respectively, or the first processing circuit 110 and the second processing circuit 120 can be composed of SoCs respectively.

[0145] The central relay device 100 is composed of the first processing circuit 110 and the second processing circuit 120, but is not limited thereto. For example, the central relay device 100 may also be composed of only the first processing circuit 110.

[0146] [9. Postscript]

[0147] [Postscript 1]

[0148] A control program, used by a relay device, which relays communication between devices connected to an onboard network, wherein... The control program is used to cause the computer to perform the following steps: When the relay device receives a first start signal from the device and performs a start-up process to start the relay device, a second start signal is sent to the central relay device. The first start signal requests the start of the relay device, and the second start signal requests the start of the central relay device that relays communication between multiple relay devices. After sending the second start signal to the central relay device, a start-up main cause determination process is performed to determine the main cause of the relay device's start-up; and If the primary cause of startup is determined through the primary cause determination process, the primary cause of startup is notified to the central relay device.

[0149] [Postscript 2]

[0150] A control program is used by a central relay device, which is connected to a first relay device, a second relay device, and a third relay device, wherein... The control program is used to cause the computer to perform the following steps: When the central relay device receives a second start signal from the first relay device that was started by a first start signal and performs a start-up process to start the central relay device, after the start-up process begins, it receives a notification from the first relay device of the main reason for the start of the first relay device, and the second start signal requests the start of the central relay device. Based on the primary reason for startup notified from the first relay device, a startup object determination process is performed, which determines the device that needs to be started in the second relay device and the third relay device; and If the result of the activation object determination process is that the activation of the second relay device is required but the activation of the third relay device is not required, a third activation signal is sent to the second relay device, the third activation signal requesting the activation of the second relay device.

[0151] [Postscript 3]

[0152] A relay method, wherein the relay device relays communication between devices connected to a vehicle network, wherein... The relay method includes the following steps: When the relay device receives a first start signal from the device and performs a start-up process to start the relay device, a second start signal is sent to the central relay device. The first start signal requests the start of the relay device, and the second start signal requests the start of the central relay device that relays communication between multiple relay devices. After sending the second start signal to the central relay device, a start-up main cause determination process is performed to determine the main cause of the relay device's start-up; and If the primary cause of startup is determined through the primary cause determination process, the primary cause of startup is notified to the central relay device.

[0153] [Postscript 4]

[0154] A relay method is provided, wherein the relay method is performed by a central relay device, the central relay device being connected to a first relay device, a second relay device, and a third relay device, wherein... The relay method includes the following steps: When the central relay device receives a second start signal from the first relay device that was started by a first start signal and performs a start-up process to start the central relay device, after the start-up process begins, it receives a notification from the first relay device of the main reason for the start of the first relay device, and the second start signal requests the start of the central relay device. Based on the primary reason for startup notified from the first relay device, a startup object determination process is performed, which determines the device that needs to be started in the second relay device and the third relay device; and If the result of the activation object determination process is that the activation of the second relay device is required but the activation of the third relay device is not required, a third activation signal is sent to the second relay device, the third activation signal requesting the activation of the second relay device.

[0155] [Postscript 5]

[0156] A relay method is provided for a vehicle-mounted system, the vehicle-mounted system including a first relay device, a second relay device, a third relay device, and a central relay device. The first, second, and third relay devices relay communication between devices connected to the vehicle-mounted network, and the central relay device relays communication between the first, second, and third relay devices. The relay method includes the following steps: When the first relay device receives a first start signal from the device connected to the first relay device, it performs a first start process to start the first relay device and sends a second start signal to the central relay device, wherein the first start signal requests the start of the first relay device and the second start signal requests the start of the central relay device. Upon receiving the second start signal, the central relay device performs a second start-up process to start the central relay device. After the first relay device sends the second start signal to the central relay device, a start main cause determination process is performed to determine the start main cause of the first relay device, and if the start main cause is determined, the start main cause is notified to the central relay device. Based on the primary reason for activation notified from the first relay device, the central relay device determines which device among the second and third relay devices needs to be activated. If the activation of the second relay device is required but the activation of the third relay device is not required, the central relay device sends a third activation signal to the second relay device, the third activation signal requesting the activation of the second relay device.

[0157] [10. Postscript]

[0158] The embodiments disclosed herein are illustrative in all respects and are not restrictive. The scope of the invention is defined not by the above embodiments, but by the claims, including all modifications within the scope and equivalent meaning of the claims.

[0159] Label Explanation

[0160] 10. Vehicle-mounted systems

[0161] 100 Central Relay Device

[0162] 110 First Processing Circuit

[0163] 111 processor

[0164] 112 Non-volatile memory

[0165] 113 Volatile Memory

[0166] 114 Peripheral Circuits

[0167] 115 Interface (I / F)

[0168] 120 Second Processing Circuit

[0169] 121 processor

[0170] 122 Non-volatile memory

[0171] 123 Volatile Memory

[0172] 124 Peripheral Circuits

[0173] 125 Interface (I / F)

[0174] 130 First Control Procedure

[0175] 131 Start Signal Receiving Unit

[0176] 132 Start-up Section

[0177] 133 Notification Receiving Department

[0178] 134 Determination Department

[0179] 135 Sending Department

[0180] 140 Second Control Procedure

[0181] Communication ports 150_1, 150_2, 150_3, and 150_4

[0182] 200, 200_1, 200_2, 200_3, 200_4 relay devices

[0183] 201 processor

[0184] 202 Non-volatile memory

[0185] 203 Volatile Memory

[0186] 204 Peripheral Circuits

[0187] 205 interface

[0188] 210 Control Program

[0189] 211 Receiving Department

[0190] 212 Start-up Section

[0191] 213 Sending Department

[0192] 214 Determination Department

[0193] 215 Notification Department

[0194] 301, 301_1, 301_2, 301_3, 301_4 ECU

[0195] Sensors 302, 302_1, 302_2, 302_3, and 302_4

[0196] Actuators 303, 303_1, 303_2, 303_3, and 303_4

[0197] 400, 400_1, 400_2, 400_3, 400_4 communication lines

[0198] Communication lines 401_1, 401_2, 401_3, and 401_4

[0199] Branch lines 402_1, 402_2, 402_3, and 402_4

[0200] 410 Communication line.

Claims

1. A vehicle-mounted system, wherein, The vehicle-mounted system includes: The first, second, and third relay devices relay communication between devices connected to the vehicle network; and The central relay device relays communication between the first relay device, the second relay device, and the third relay device. Upon receiving a first start signal from the device connected to it, the first relay device executes a first start process to start the first relay device and sends a second start signal to the central relay device. The first start signal requests the start of the first relay device, and the second start signal requests the start of the central relay device. Upon receiving the second start signal, the central relay device executes a second start-up process to activate the central relay device. After sending the second activation signal to the central relay device, the first relay device performs a activation main cause determination process to determine the main cause of activation of the first relay device. If the main cause of activation is determined, the main cause of activation is notified to the central relay device. Based on the primary reason for activation notified from the first relay device, the central relay device determines which device among the second and third relay devices needs to be activated. If the activation of the second relay device is required but the activation of the third relay device is not required, the central relay device sends a third activation signal to the second relay device, the third activation signal requesting the activation of the second relay device.

2. The vehicle-mounted system according to claim 1, wherein, The central relay device includes a first processing circuit and a second processing circuit. The second startup process is a process that starts the first processing circuit but does not start the second processing circuit.

3. The vehicle-mounted system according to claim 1, wherein, The central relay device includes a first processing circuit and a second processing circuit. The second startup process is a process that starts the first processing circuit and the second processing circuit respectively.

4. The vehicle-mounted system according to claim 2 or claim 3, wherein, The first processing circuit performs a startup object determination process based on the main startup reason, which determines the device that needs to be started in the second relay device and the third relay device.

5. The vehicle-mounted system according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein, The first startup time required for the first processing circuit to start is shorter than the second startup time required for the second processing circuit to start.

6. The vehicle-mounted system according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein, The first processing circuit consumes less power than the second processing circuit.

7. The vehicle-mounted system according to claim 3, wherein, The first processing circuit is connected to the first relay device via a first communication line. The first processing circuit is connected to the second relay device via the second communication line. The first processing circuit is connected to the third relay device via a third communication line. The first communication line, the second communication line, and the third communication line each branch, and each branch end of the first communication line, the second communication line, and the third communication line is connected to the second processing circuit.

8. The vehicle-mounted system according to any one of claims 2 to 6, wherein, The first processing circuit is connected to the first relay device via a first communication line. The first processing circuit is connected to the second relay device via the second communication line. The first processing circuit is connected to the third relay device via a third communication line. The second processing circuit is connected to the first processing circuit via a fourth communication line.

9. The vehicle-mounted system according to any one of claims 2 to 8, wherein, The first processing circuit performs the functions used in the respective operations of the first relay device, the second relay device, and the third relay device.

10. A relay device for relaying communication between devices connected to a vehicle network, wherein, The relay device includes: The receiving unit receives a first start signal from the device, the first start signal requesting the relay device to start; The starting unit executes a starting process to start the relay device when the receiving unit receives the first starting signal. The transmitting unit sends a second activation signal to the central relay device, the second activation signal requesting the activation of the central relay device to relay communication between multiple relay devices; The determination unit, after sending the second start signal to the central relay device, performs a start-up main cause determination process to determine the main cause of the relay device's start-up; and The notification department, upon determining the primary cause of startup through the aforementioned primary cause determination process, notifies the central relay device of the primary cause of startup.

11. A central relay device, connected to a first relay device, a second relay device, and a third relay device, wherein, The central relay device includes: The activation signal receiving unit receives a second activation signal from the first relay device activated by the first activation signal, the second activation signal requesting the activation of the central relay device; The start-up unit executes a start-up process to start the central relay device when the start-up signal receiving unit receives the second start-up signal. The receiving unit is notified that after the startup process begins, it receives a notification from the first relay device regarding the main reason for the startup of the first relay device. The determination unit performs a startup object determination process based on the startup main reason notified from the first relay device, the startup object determination process determining the device that needs to be started in the second relay device and the third relay device; and If the result of the activation target determination process is that the activation of the second relay device is required but the activation of the third relay device is not required, the sending unit sends a third activation signal to the second relay device, the third activation signal requesting the activation of the second relay device.

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