Power supply device

Abstract

A power supply device (10) is included in a vehicle system (100). The power supply device (10) is provided with: a first switch unit (81) provided in a first conductive path (80E) between a load (70) and a first power supply unit (90) including a battery among conductive paths (80); a second switch unit (82) provided in a second conductive path (80F) between the second power supply unit (91) and the load (70) among the conductive paths (80); an electrical connection box (85) that accommodates the first switch unit (81) and the second switch unit (82); and a power consumption unit (84) housed in the electrical connection box (85). A first power consumption unit (84A) of the power consumption unit (84) is electrically connected to a first power source-side conductive path (80A) between the first power source unit (90) and the first switch unit (81) among the first conductive paths (80E), and consumes power supplied from the first power source-side conductive path (80A).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to power supply equipment. Background Technology

[0002] The power supply system of Patent Document 1 includes a main battery and a secondary battery, and operates by switching the power supply source to the load from the main battery to the secondary battery when the power supply from the main battery is interrupted. In the power supply system of Patent Document 1, the switch between the secondary battery and the load is set to the open state. When the power from the main battery is interrupted, power is supplied to the load from the secondary battery via the body diode of the switch, so the power supply is not interrupted.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2020-182318 Summary of the Invention

[0006] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0007] For example, in the structure of Patent Document 1, a structure is considered for detecting open-circuit faults in the auxiliary battery by utilizing changes in the voltage of the conductive path. For instance, when an open-circuit fault occurs in the auxiliary battery, regardless of whether the switch on the auxiliary battery side is turned on or off, the charge accumulated in the conductive path between the auxiliary battery and the switch on the auxiliary battery side, due to the continued power supply from the main battery side, has nowhere to escape and remains in the conductive path. Therefore, the voltage in the conductive path between the auxiliary battery and the switch on the auxiliary battery side does not drop. In the structure of Patent Document 1, it may be impossible to detect open-circuit faults in the auxiliary battery by utilizing changes in the voltage of the conductive path. Here, an open-circuit fault refers to a state where the connection between the guiding circuit and the positive terminal of the battery is disconnected, or the connection between the negative terminal of the battery and the vehicle's ground is disconnected, etc.

[0008] This disclosure is made based on the above circumstances, and its purpose is to provide a power supply device capable of detecting open-circuit faults in a battery based on the voltage of the conductive circuit.

[0009] Methods for solving problems

[0010] The power supply device disclosed herein is included in a vehicle system, the vehicle system comprising: a first power supply unit including a battery; a second power supply unit; a conductive circuit disposed between the first power supply unit and the second power supply unit; and a load electrically connected to the conductive circuit, wherein... The power supply device has: A first switching section is provided in the first conductive path between the first power supply section and the load in the conductive path; A second switching section is provided in the second conductive path between the second power supply section and the load in the conductive path; An electrical connection box is provided to house the first switch section and the second switch section; and The power consumption unit is housed in the electrical connection box. The power-consuming part is electrically connected to the first power supply side conductor between the first power supply part and the first switch part in the first conductive circuit and consumes the power supplied from the first power supply side conductor.

[0011] Invention Effects

[0012] According to this disclosure, it is possible to detect open-circuit faults in a battery by utilizing the voltage of a conductive circuit. Attached Figure Description

[0013] Figure 1 This is a circuit diagram that roughly represents the structure of the vehicle system in Embodiment 1.

[0014] Figure 2 This is a timing diagram illustrating an example of determining an open-circuit fault in the control unit of Embodiment 1.

[0015] Figure 3 This is a circuit diagram that roughly represents the structure of the vehicle system in Embodiment 2.

[0016] Figure 4 This is a circuit diagram that roughly represents the structure of the vehicle system in Embodiment 3.

[0017] Figure 5 This is a circuit diagram that roughly represents the structure of the vehicle system in embodiment 4. Detailed Implementation

[0018] [Description of embodiments of this disclosure]

[0019] The following are examples and illustrations of embodiments of this disclosure.

[0020] (1) A power supply device included in a vehicle system, the vehicle system comprising: a first power supply unit including a battery; a second power supply unit; a conductive circuit disposed between the first power supply unit and the second power supply unit; and a load electrically connected to the conductive circuit, wherein... The power supply device has: A first switching section is provided in the first conductive path between the first power supply section and the load in the conductive path; A second switching section is provided in the second conductive path between the second power supply section and the load in the conductive path; An electrical connection box is provided to house the first switch section and the second switch section; and The power consumption unit is housed in the electrical connection box. The power-consuming part is electrically connected to the first power supply side conductor between the first power supply part and the first switch part in the first conductive circuit and consumes the power supplied from the first power supply side conductor.

[0021] (1) In the event of an open-circuit fault in the first power supply unit when the first switch and the second switch are in the on state, the power supply unit releases the charge accumulated in the first power supply side conductor to the outside via the power consumption unit, thereby reducing the voltage of the first power supply side conductor. Thus, a structure can be constructed in which an open-circuit fault in the first power supply unit can be determined based on the change in voltage of the first power supply side conductor when the first switch is switched to the off state.

[0022] (2) The power supply device according to (1), wherein, The power consumption unit is a voltage detection unit installed in the conductive circuit on the first power supply side. The voltage detection unit has a voltage divider resistor, which divides the voltage of the first power supply side conductive circuit and outputs it.

[0023] (2) The power supply device can utilize the voltage detection unit as a power consumption unit, thus simplifying the structure.

[0024] (3) The power supply device according to (1), wherein, The power supply device has a voltage detection unit disposed in the conductive circuit on the first power supply side. The power consumption unit and the voltage detection unit are set up independently.

[0025] (3) The power supply device is easily configured such that the structure of the power consumption section is dedicated to consuming the power supplied from the first power supply side circuit.

[0026] (4) The power supply device according to any one of (1) to (3), wherein, The power supply device has a control unit that controls the first switching unit. The control unit periodically switches the first switch to the off state.

[0027] (4) The power supply device can frequently determine whether the voltage of the first power supply side conductive circuit drops by periodically switching the first switch section to the off state, thereby constructing a structure that can meticulously detect open circuit faults in the first power supply section.

[0028] (5) The power supply device according to (1) or (3), wherein, The power supply device has a control unit that controls the first switching unit. The control unit switches the first switch to the off state based on the current flowing through the first conductive circuit.

[0029] Structures for detecting the current in a conductive circuit are frequently used. Therefore, the power supply device of (5) is easy to implement.

[0030] (6) The power supply device according to (1) or (3), wherein, The power supply device has a control unit that controls the first switching unit. The control unit switches the first switch to the off state based on the temperature of the second power supply unit or the temperature of the second switch unit.

[0031] (6) The power supply device is structured to switch the first switch to the off state based on the temperature of the second power supply unit or the temperature of the second switch unit. Therefore, compared with the case of detecting voltage and current, it is possible to easily control the first switch to the off state.

[0032] (7) The power supply device according to any one of (1) to (3), wherein, The power supply device has a control unit that controls the first switching unit. When the first fault determination condition is met, the control unit switches the first switch to the off state and determines whether the first power supply unit has an open circuit fault based on the voltage of the first power supply side conductive circuit.

[0033] (7) The power supply device is a structure that determines whether the first power supply unit has an open circuit fault, regardless of whether the first power supply unit has an open circuit fault, if the first fault determination condition is met. Therefore, it is easy to detect open circuit faults in the first power supply unit in detail.

[0034] (8) The power supply device according to (7), wherein, The control unit controls the second switching unit. When the second fault determination condition is met, the control unit switches the second switch to the off state and determines whether the second power supply unit has an open circuit fault based on the voltage of the second power supply side conductive circuit between the second power supply unit and the second switch unit in the second conductive circuit.

[0035] (8) The power supply device is a structure that determines whether the second power supply unit has an open circuit fault, regardless of whether the second power supply unit has an open circuit fault, if the second fault determination condition is met. Therefore, it is easy to detect open circuit faults in the second power supply unit in detail.

[0036] <Implementation Method 1>

[0037] [Structure of the vehicle system]

[0038] Figure 1 The vehicle system 100 shown is a system mounted on a vehicle. The vehicle system 100 includes a first power supply unit 90, a second power supply unit 91, a conductive circuit 80, a load 70, and a power supply device 10. The vehicle system 100 supplies power from the first power supply unit 90 and the second power supply unit 91 to the load 70 via the conductive circuit 80.

[0039] The first power supply unit 90 is, for example, a battery pack composed of multiple individual cells such as lithium-ion batteries or nickel-metal hydride batteries connected in series. That is, the first power supply unit 90 includes a rechargeable battery. The second power supply unit 91 can, for example, use a lead-acid battery or an individual cell of the same type as the first power supply unit 90. That is, the second power supply unit 91 includes a rechargeable battery. The output voltage of the second power supply unit 91 is equal to the output voltage of the first power supply unit 90.

[0040] A conductive path 80 is provided between the first power supply section 90 and the second power supply section 91. A load 70 is electrically connected to the conductive path 80. The electrical path between the first power supply section 90 and the load 70 in the conductive path 80 is the first conductive path 80E. The electrical path between the second power supply section 91 and the load 70 in the conductive path 80 is the second conductive path 80F.

[0041] In this disclosure, the "electrical connection" is preferably a structure in which the potentials of both connected objects are equal and they are connected in a mutually conductive state (a state in which current flows). However, it is not limited to this structure. For example, the "electrical connection" may also be a structure in which an electrical component is sandwiched between two connected objects and the two connected objects are connected in a conductive state.

[0042] Load 70 includes, for example, the ECU (Electronic Control Unit) of the electric braking device, the ECU of the shift-by-wire device, the ECU of the door lock device, the display device, the ECU of the airbag device, the DCM (Data Communication Module), etc.

[0043] [Structure of power supply equipment]

[0044] The power supply device 10 is included in the vehicle system 100. The power supply device 10 includes a first switch section 81, a second switch section 82, a power consumption section 84, a control section 83, and an electrical connection box 85.

[0045] The first switching section 81 is disposed in the first conductive path 80E between the first power supply section 90 and the load 70 in the conductive path 80. The first switching section 81 uses a switching element such as a FET (Field Effect Transistor). The conductive path 80 between the first switching section 81 and the first power supply section 90 is the first power supply side conductive path 80A between the first power supply section 90 and the first switching section 81 in the first conductive path 80E. The conductive path 80 between the first switching section 81 and the load 70 is the first load side conductive path 80B. That is, the first switching section 81 is disposed between the first power supply side conductive path 80A and the first load side conductive path 80B. The anode of the body diode of the first switching section 81 is connected to the first power supply side conductive path 80A, and the cathode of the body diode of the first switching section 81 is connected to the first load side conductive path 80B. The first switching section 81 switches between an on state and an off state. The on state allows bidirectional current flow through the first switching section 81 between the first power supply side conductive path 80A and the first load side conductive path 80B. The off state cuts off the current flowing from the first load side conductive path 80B to the first power supply side conductive path 80A.

[0046] A second switching section 82 is disposed in a conductive path 80 (second conductive path 80F) between the second power supply section 91 and the load 70. The second switching section 82 uses a switching element such as a FET. The conductive path 80 between the second switching section 82 and the second power supply section 91 is the second power supply side conductive path 80C between the second power supply section 91 and the second switching section 82 in the second conductive path 80F. The conductive path 80 between the second switching section 82 and the load 70 is the second load side conductive path 80D. That is, the second switching section 82 is disposed between the second power supply side conductive path 80C and the second load side conductive path 80D. The anode of the body diode of the second switching section 82 is connected to the second power supply side conductive path 80C, and the cathode of the body diode of the second switching section 82 is connected to the second load side conductive path 80D. The second switch section 82 switches between an on state and an off state. The on state allows bidirectional current flow through the second switch section 82 between the second power supply side conductive path 80C and the second load side conductive path 80D. The off state cuts off the current flowing from the second load side conductive path 80D to the second power supply side conductive path 80C.

[0047] The power consumption unit 84 includes a first power consumption unit 84A, a second power consumption unit 84B, and a third power consumption unit 84C. The first power consumption unit 84A is provided in the first power supply side conductive path 80A. The first power consumption unit 84A has a first voltage divider resistor 84D and a second voltage divider resistor 84E, which are voltage divider resistors. The first voltage divider resistor 84D and the second voltage divider resistor 84E are connected in series. Specifically, one end of the first voltage divider resistor 84D is electrically connected to the first power supply side conductive path 80A. One end of the second voltage divider resistor 84E is electrically connected to the other end of the first voltage divider resistor 84D. The other end of the second voltage divider resistor 84E is electrically connected to the ground wire 84F.

[0048] The potential at the first connection point P1, where the other end of the first voltage divider resistor 84D is electrically connected to one end of the second voltage divider resistor 84E, is obtained by dividing the potential of the first power supply side conductive circuit 80A by the first voltage divider resistor 84D and the second voltage divider resistor 84E. This potential is configured as a signal V1 that can determine the potential of the first power supply side conductive circuit 80A and is input to the control unit 83. That is, the first power consumption unit 84A functions as the first voltage detection unit 87A in the voltage detection unit 87 that detects the potential of the first power supply side conductive circuit 80A and inputs it to the control unit 83. In other words, the first power consumption unit 84A is the first voltage detection unit 87A provided in the first power supply side conductive circuit 80A. Furthermore, the first voltage detection unit 87A has a first voltage divider resistor 84D and a second voltage divider resistor 84E, which divide the voltage of the first power supply side conductive circuit 80A and output it as signal V1 from the first connection point P1.

[0049] A second power consumption unit 84B is provided in the second power supply side conductive path 80C. The second power consumption unit 84B has a first voltage divider resistor 84G and a second voltage divider resistor 84H, which are connected in series. Specifically, one end of the first voltage divider resistor 84G is electrically connected to the second power supply side conductive path 80C. One end of the second voltage divider resistor 84H is electrically connected to the other end of the first voltage divider resistor 84G. The other end of the second voltage divider resistor 84H is electrically connected to the ground wire 84F.

[0050] The potential at the second connection point P2, where the other end of the first voltage divider resistor 84G is electrically connected to one end of the second voltage divider resistor 84H, is obtained by dividing the potential of the second power supply side conductive circuit 80C by the first voltage divider resistor 84G and the second voltage divider resistor 84H. This potential is configured as a signal V2 that can determine the potential of the second power supply side conductive circuit 80C and is input to the control unit 83. That is, the second power consumption unit 84B functions as the second voltage detection unit 87B in the voltage detection unit 87 that detects the potential of the second power supply side conductive circuit 80C and inputs it to the control unit 83. In other words, the second power consumption unit 84B is the second voltage detection unit 87B provided in the second power supply side conductive circuit 80C. Furthermore, the second voltage detection unit 87B has a first voltage divider resistor 84G and a second voltage divider resistor 84H, which divide the voltage of the second power supply side conductive circuit 80C and output it as signal V2 from the second connection point P2.

[0051] A third power consumption unit 84C is provided in the first load-side conductive path 80B. The third power consumption unit 84C has a first voltage divider resistor 84J and a second voltage divider resistor 84K, which are connected in series. Specifically, one end of the first voltage divider resistor 84J is electrically connected to the first load-side conductive path 80B. One end of the second voltage divider resistor 84K is electrically connected to the other end of the first voltage divider resistor 84J. The other end of the second voltage divider resistor 84K is electrically connected to the ground wire 84F.

[0052] The potential at the third connection point P3, where the other end of the first voltage divider resistor 84J is electrically connected to one end of the second voltage divider resistor 84K, is obtained by dividing the potential of the first load-side conductive circuit 80B by the first voltage divider resistor 84J and the second voltage divider resistor 84K. This potential is configured as a signal V3 that can determine the potential of the first load-side conductive circuit 80B and is input to the control unit 83. That is, the third power consumption unit 84C functions as the third voltage detection unit 87C in the voltage detection unit 87 that detects the potential of the first load-side conductive circuit 80B and inputs it to the control unit 83.

[0053] The control unit 83 has the function of controlling the first switch unit 81 and the second switch unit 82. The control unit 83 is, for example, composed of an MCU (Micro Controller Unit).

[0054] For example, when the vehicle's start switch (e.g., ignition switch) is switched to the ON state, the control unit 83 begins to output an ON signal to the first switch unit 81 and the second switch unit 82. As a result, the first switch unit 81 and the second switch unit 82 switch from the OFF state to the ON state and maintain the ON state.

[0055] Furthermore, when the first fault determination condition is met, the control unit 83 performs intermittent cut-off control to switch the first switch unit 81 to the off state, and when the second fault determination condition is met, it performs intermittent cut-off control to switch the second switch unit 82 to the off state. Specifically, the first fault determination condition and the second fault determination condition are conditions that are met at predetermined intervals. The control unit 83 is configured to perform intermittent cut-off control, which, when the vehicle's start switch is on, switches from an on signal to a off signal at predetermined intervals (whenever the first fault determination condition or the second fault determination condition is met), and maintains the output of the off signal. Thus, the first switch unit 81 and the second switch unit 82 switch from the on state to the off state at predetermined intervals. That is, the first fault determination condition and the second fault determination condition are conditions that are met periodically. In addition, in order not to interrupt the power supply to the load 70, it is preferable that the periods for performing intermittent cut-off control on the first switch unit 81 and the second switch unit 82 are different in a non-overlapping manner.

[0056] During the period when the first switch section 81 and the second switch section 82 are kept in the open state by the intermittent cut-off control of the control unit 83, an open circuit fault determination operation is performed in the control unit 83. In the open circuit fault determination operation, based on the voltage of the first power supply side conductor 80A and the first load side conductor 80B, it is determined whether an open circuit fault has occurred in the first power supply section 90, and based on the voltage of the second power supply side conductor 80C and the first load side conductor 80B, it is determined whether an open circuit fault has occurred in the second power supply section 91.

[0057] Specifically, in the open-circuit fault determination operation, it is determined whether the difference between the voltage (signal V1) of the first power supply side conductor 80A and the voltage (signal V3) of the first load side conductor 80B is below the difference threshold ThP. Simultaneously, in the open-circuit fault determination operation, it is determined whether the difference between the voltage (signal V2) of the second power supply side conductor 80C and the voltage (signal V3) of the first load side conductor 80B is below the difference threshold ThP. For example, the difference threshold ThP is stored as a constant in the memory of the control unit 83.

[0058] During the open-circuit fault determination operation, when the control unit 83 determines that the difference between signal V1 and signal V3 is below the difference threshold ThP, it ends the intermittent cut-off control and begins outputting an on signal On to the first switch unit 81. When the difference between signal V1 and signal V3 is greater than the difference threshold ThP, the control unit 83 determines that an open-circuit fault has occurred in the first power supply unit 90, continues to execute the intermittent cut-off control, and maintains the output of the cut-off signal Off to the first switch unit 81.

[0059] Furthermore, during the open-circuit fault determination operation, when the control unit 83 determines that the difference between signal V2 and signal V3 is below the difference threshold ThP, it ends the intermittent cut-off control and begins outputting an on signal On to the second switch unit 82. If the difference between signal V2 and signal V3 is greater than the difference threshold ThP, the control unit 83 determines that an open-circuit fault has occurred in the second power supply unit 91, continues to execute the intermittent cut-off control, and maintains the output of the cut-off signal Off to the second switch unit 82.

[0060] The electrical connection box 85 functions as a housing, accommodating the first switch section 81, the second switch section 82, the power consumption section 84, and the control section 83. A plurality of terminals 86 are provided in the electrical connection box 85. The terminals 86 include a first terminal 86A, a second terminal 86B, a third terminal 86C, and a fourth terminal 86D. These terminals 86 are arranged on the walls forming the electrical connection box 85, facing both the inner and outer sides of the electrical connection box 85.

[0061] A first power supply unit 90 is electrically connected to the first terminal 86A, and a first power supply side conductive path 80A is also electrically connected thereto. A second power supply unit 91 is electrically connected to the second terminal 86B, and a second power supply side conductive path 80C is also electrically connected thereto. A load 70 is electrically connected to the third terminal 86C, and a first load side conductive path 80B and a second load side conductive path 80D are also electrically connected thereto. The load 70 is located outside the electrical connection box 85. A reference conductive path G, which serves as the ground for the vehicle, is electrically connected to the fourth terminal 86D, and a grounding wire 84F is also electrically connected thereto.

[0062] [An example of the operation of a power supply unit]

[0063] Reference Figure 2 An example of the operation of the power supply device 10 will be described. For example, in a vehicle equipped with the vehicle system 100, when the start switch is switched to the ON state, the first switch section 81 and the second switch section 82 are controlled to remain ON by the ON signal On output from the control section 83. During the period when the start switch is ON, the control section 83 performs intermittent cut-off control at predetermined intervals. The periods during which the intermittent cut-off control is performed on the first switch section 81 and the second switch section 82 are different in a non-overlapping manner. When the start switch is ON, the control section 83 periodically monitors signals V1, V2, and V3.

[0064] [In the event of an open circuit fault in the first or second power supply section]

[0065] For example, when the first switch section 81 and the second switch section 82 are in the ON state, if the first fault determination condition is met at time T1, the control section 83 performs intermittent cut-off control and outputs a cut-off signal Off to the first switch section 81, thereby switching the first switch section 81 to the OFF state. Then, in the open circuit fault determination operation, when the control section 83 determines that the difference between signal V1 and signal V3 is below the difference threshold ThP and the first power supply section 90 has not experienced an open circuit fault ( Figure 2 When the signal is "No" in the command, at time T2, the intermittent cut-off control ends and the first switch unit 81 begins to output an on signal. Thus, the first switch unit 81 switches to the on state.

[0066] When the first switch section 81 and the second switch section 82 are in the ON state, an open-circuit fault occurs in the first power supply section 90 at time T3. At this time, since the first switch section 81 is in the ON state, the potential (signal V3) of the first load-side conductive circuit 80B and the potential (signal V1) of the first power supply-side conductive circuit 80A are the same. In this state, at time T4, the first fault determination condition is met again, and the control section 83 performs intermittent cut-off control and outputs a cut-off signal Off to the first switch section 81 again, thereby switching the first switch section 81 to the OFF state.

[0067] Therefore, the charge accumulated in the first power supply side conductive circuit 80A is discharged to the reference conductive circuit G via the first voltage divider resistor 84D, the second voltage divider resistor 84E, the ground wire 84F, and the fourth terminal 86D (refer to...). Figure 1 That is, the first power consumption unit 84A is electrically connected to the first power supply side conductive circuit 80A and consumes the power supplied from the first power supply side conductive circuit 80A. Therefore, the potential (signal V1) of the first power supply side conductive circuit 80A is smaller than the potential (signal V3) of the first load side conductive circuit 80B. Then, at time T5, during the open-circuit fault determination operation, the control unit 83 detects that the difference between signal V1 and signal V3 exceeds the difference threshold ThP. Therefore, the control unit 83 determines that an open-circuit fault has occurred in the first power supply unit 90. Figure 2 If the "is" in the code indicates that the intermittent cut-off control continues to be executed, the cut-off signal Off will continue to be output to the first switch section 81.

[0068] Furthermore, when the first switch section 81 and the second switch section 82 are in the ON state, if the second fault determination condition is met at time T1, the control section 83 executes intermittent cut-off control to output a cut-off signal Off to the second switch section 82, thereby switching the second switch section 82 to the OFF state. Then, in the open-circuit fault determination operation, when the control section 83 determines that the difference between signal V2 and signal V3 is below the difference threshold ThP and the second power supply section 91 has not experienced an open-circuit fault ( Figure 2When the signal is "No" in the command, at time T2, the intermittent cut-off control ends and the second switch section 82 begins to output an on signal. Thus, the second switch section 82 switches to the on state.

[0069] When the first switch section 81 and the second switch section 82 are in the ON state, an open-circuit fault occurs in the second power supply section 91 at time T3. At this time, since the second switch section 82 is in the ON state, the potential (signal V3) of the first load-side conductive circuit 80B and the potential (signal V2) of the second power supply-side conductive circuit 80C are the same. In this state, at time T4, the first fault determination condition is met again, and the control section 83 performs intermittent cut-off control, outputting the cut-off signal Off to the second switch section 82 again, thereby switching the second switch section 82 to the OFF state.

[0070] Therefore, the charge accumulated in the second power supply side conductive circuit 80C is discharged to the reference conductive circuit G via the first voltage divider resistor 84G, the second voltage divider resistor 84H, the ground wire 84F, and the fourth terminal 86D (see reference). Figure 1 That is, the second power consumption unit 84B is electrically connected to the second power supply side conductor 80C and consumes the power supplied from the second power supply side conductor 80C. Therefore, the potential (signal V2) of the second power supply side conductor 80C is smaller than the potential (signal V3) of the first load side conductor 80B. Then, at time T5, during the open-circuit fault determination operation, the control unit 83 detects that the difference between signal V2 and signal V3 exceeds the difference threshold ThP. Therefore, the control unit 83 determines that an open-circuit fault has occurred in the second power supply unit 91. Figure 2 If the "Yes" is selected, the intermittent cut-off control continues to be executed, and the cut-off signal Off is maintained to be output to the second switch section 82. In addition, the difference threshold ThP used in the open circuit fault determination operation of the first power supply section 90 can be the same as or different from the difference threshold ThP used in the open circuit fault determination operation of the second power supply section 91.

[0071] Thus, when an open-circuit fault occurs in the first power supply section 90 during intermittent disconnection control executed in the control unit 83 when the first fault determination condition is met, the power supply device 10 discharges the charge in the first power supply side conductive path 80A through the first power consumption section 84A. Furthermore, during the open-circuit fault determination operation of the control unit 83, if the difference between the potential (signal V1) of the first power supply side conductive path 80A and the potential (signal V3) of the first load side conductive path 80B is detected to be greater than the difference threshold ThP. Additionally, when an open-circuit fault occurs in the second power supply section 91 during intermittent disconnection control executed in the control unit 83 when the second fault determination condition is met, the power supply device 10 discharges the charge in the second power supply side conductive path 80C through the second power consumption section 84B. Furthermore, during the open-circuit fault determination operation of the control unit 83, if the difference between the potential (signal V2) of the second power supply side conductive path 80C and the potential (signal V3) of the first load side conductive path 80B is detected to be greater than the difference threshold ThP.

[0072] Next, the effect of this structure will be illustrated.

[0073] A power supply device 10 is included in a vehicle system 100, which includes a first power supply unit 90, a second power supply unit 91, a conductive path 80, and a load 70. The first power supply unit 90 includes a battery, the conductive path 80 is disposed between the first power supply unit 90 and the second power supply unit 91, and the load 70 is electrically connected to the conductive path 80. The power supply device 10 includes: a first switch unit 81, a first conductive path 80E disposed between the first power supply unit 90 and the load 70 in the conductive path 80; a second switch unit 82, a second conductive path 80F disposed between the second power supply unit 91 and the load 70 in the conductive path 80; an electrical connection box 85, which houses the first switch unit 81 and the second switch unit 82; and a power consumption unit 84, which is housed in the electrical connection box 85. The first power consumption unit 84A of the power consumption unit 84 is electrically connected to the first power-side conductive path 80A between the first power supply unit 90 and the first switch unit 81 in the first conductive path 80E and consumes the power supplied from the first power-side conductive path 80A.

[0074] According to this structure, for example, if an open-circuit fault occurs in the first power supply unit 90 when the first switch unit 81 and the second switch unit 82 are in the ON state, the charge accumulated in the first power supply side conductive circuit 80A is released to the outside via the first power consumption unit 84A of the power consumption unit 84, thereby reducing the voltage of the first power supply side conductive circuit 80A. Therefore, a structure can be constructed such that an open-circuit fault in the first power supply unit 90 can be determined based on the change in voltage of the first power supply side conductive circuit 80A when the first switch unit 81 is switched to the OFF state.

[0075] The first power consumption unit 84A of the power consumption unit 84 is a first voltage detection unit 87A provided in the first power supply side conductive circuit 80A. The first voltage detection unit 87A has a first voltage dividing resistor 84D and a second voltage dividing resistor 84E that divide and output the voltage of the first power supply side conductive circuit 80A. According to this structure, the voltage detection unit 87 can be used as the power consumption unit 84, thus simplifying the construction.

[0076] The power supply device 10 has a control unit 83 that controls the first switch section 81, and the control unit 83 periodically switches the first switch section 81 to an open state. According to this structure, by periodically switching the first switch section 81 to an open state, it is possible to frequently determine whether the voltage of the first power supply side conductive circuit 80A has dropped, thereby enabling the construction of a structure for detailed detection of open circuit faults in the first power supply section 90.

[0077] The system includes a control unit 83 that controls the first switch unit 81. When a first fault determination condition is met, the control unit 83 switches the first switch unit 81 to an open state and determines whether an open-circuit fault has occurred in the first power supply unit 90 based on the voltage of the first power supply side conductive circuit 80A. With this structure, since the system determines whether an open-circuit fault has occurred in the first power supply unit 90 is detected only when the first fault determination condition is met, regardless of whether an open-circuit fault has occurred in the first power supply unit 90, it is easy to detect open-circuit faults in the first power supply unit 90 in detail.

[0078] The control unit 83 controls the second switch unit 82. When the second fault determination condition is met, the control unit 83 switches the second switch unit 82 to the off state and determines whether an open-circuit fault has occurred in the second power supply unit 91 based on the voltage of the second power supply side conductor 80C between the second power supply unit 91 in the second conductor 80F and the second switch unit 82. According to this structure, regardless of whether an open-circuit fault has occurred in the second power supply unit 91, the determination of whether an open-circuit fault has occurred in the second power supply unit 91 is made when the second fault determination condition is met, thus facilitating detailed detection of open-circuit faults in the second power supply unit 91.

[0079] <Implementation Method 2>

[0080] Figure 3 The power supply device 20 of the vehicle system 200 shown differs from that of Embodiment 1 in that it has a power consumption unit 184 provided independently of the voltage detection unit 87; otherwise, they are the same. Detailed descriptions of structures identical to those in Embodiment 1 are omitted. The internal structure of the voltage detection unit 87 is the same as that in Embodiment 1, and is omitted from the illustration for convenience.

[0081] The power consumption unit 184 includes a first power consumption unit 184A and a second power consumption unit 184B. The first power consumption unit 184A and the second power consumption unit 184B may use resistors, inductors, etc. The resistance value of the first power consumption unit 184A is preferably greater than that of the first voltage divider resistor 84D and the second voltage divider resistor 84E provided in the first voltage detection unit 87A of the first power supply side conductive circuit 80A (see reference). Figure 1 The total resistance value of the second power consumption unit 184B is smaller than that of the first voltage divider resistor 84G and the second voltage divider resistor 84H provided in the second voltage detection unit 87B of the second power supply side conductive circuit 80C (refer to...). Figure 1 The total resistance value is small. The first power consumption unit 184A and the second power consumption unit 184B are housed in the electrical connection box 85. The first power consumption unit 184A is disposed between the first power supply side conductive path 80A and the grounding wire 84F. The second power consumption unit 184B is disposed between the second power supply side conductive path 80C and the grounding wire 84F.

[0082] [An example of the operation of a power supply unit in the event of an open-circuit fault in the first or second power supply section]

[0083] If an open-circuit fault occurs in the first power supply unit 90 when the first switch unit 81 and the second switch unit 82 are in the ON state, the potential (signal V3) of the first load-side conductive path 80B and the potential (signal V1) of the first power supply-side conductive path 80A remain the same. In this state, the first fault determination condition is met, and the control unit 83 executes intermittent cut-off control and outputs a cut-off signal Off to the first switch unit 81, thereby switching the first switch unit 81 to the OFF state. Then, the charge accumulated in the first power supply-side conductive path 80A is discharged to the reference conductive path G via the first power consumption unit 184A, the ground wire 84F, and the fourth terminal 86D. As a result, the potential (signal V1) of the first power supply-side conductive path 80A is smaller than the potential (signal V3) of the first load-side conductive path 80B. During the open-circuit fault determination operation, when the difference between signal V1 and signal V3 exceeds the difference threshold ThP, the control unit 83 determines that an open-circuit fault has occurred in the first power supply unit 90, continues to execute intermittent cut-off control, and maintains the output of the cut-off signal Off to the first switch unit 81.

[0084] Furthermore, if an open-circuit fault occurs in the second power supply unit 91 when the first switch unit 81 and the second switch unit 82 are in the ON state, the potential (signal V3) of the first load-side conductive circuit 80B and the potential (signal V2) of the second power supply-side conductive circuit 80C remain at the same magnitude. In this state, the second fault determination condition is met, and the control unit 83 performs intermittent cut-off control and outputs a cut-off signal Off to the second switch unit 82, thereby switching the second switch unit 82 to the OFF state. Then, the charge accumulated in the second power supply-side conductive circuit 80C is discharged to the reference conductive circuit G via the second power consumption unit 184B, the ground wire 84F, and the fourth terminal 86D. Therefore, the potential (signal V2) of the second power supply-side conductive circuit 80C is smaller than the potential (signal V3) of the first load-side conductive circuit 80B. During the open circuit fault determination operation, when the difference between signal V2 and signal V3 exceeds the difference threshold ThP, the control unit 83 determines that an open circuit fault has occurred in the second power supply unit 91, continues to perform intermittent cut-off control, and maintains the output of the cut-off signal Off to the second switch unit 82.

[0085] The power supply device 20 has a voltage detection unit 87 provided in the first power supply side conductive circuit 80A, and the first power consumption unit 184A of the power consumption unit 184 is provided independently of the voltage detection unit 87. According to this structure, it is easy to configure the structure of the first power consumption unit 184A of the power consumption unit 184 as a structure dedicated to consuming the power supplied from the first power supply side conductive circuit 80A.

[0086] <Implementation Method 3>

[0087] Figure 4 The vehicle system 300 shown differs from Embodiment 2 in that it has a current detection unit 94 and operates in the control unit 83, but is otherwise similar. In the following description, detailed descriptions of structures identical to those in Embodiment 2 will be omitted.

[0088] The current detection unit 94 includes a first current detection unit 94A and a second current detection unit 94B. The first current detection unit 94A and the second current detection unit 94B can be configured, for example, as a known current detection circuit using a current transformer and a shunt resistor. The first current detection unit 94A and the second current detection unit 94B are housed in an electrical connection box 85. The first current detection unit 94A is provided in the first load-side conductive path 80B. The first current detection unit 94A outputs a signal A1 to the control unit 83, which determines the direction and magnitude of the current flowing through the first load-side conductive path 80B (first conductive path 80E). The second current detection unit 94B is provided in the second load-side conductive path 80D. The second current detection unit 94B outputs a signal A2 to the control unit 83, which determines the direction and magnitude of the current flowing through the second load-side conductive path 80D (second conductive path 80F).

[0089] The control unit 83 is configured to perform control that switches the first switch unit 81 or the second switch unit 82 to an open state based on the current flowing through the first conductive path 80E and the current flowing through the second conductive path 80F. The control unit 83 switches the first switch unit 81 to an open state when a first fault determination condition is met. Specifically, when the first fault determination condition is met, such as the magnitude of the current in signal A1 being less than a current threshold, or signal A1 being less than signal A2 and the difference between signal A1 and signal A2 being greater than a current difference threshold, the control unit 83 outputs a cut-off signal Off to the first switch unit 81. Thus, the first switch unit 81 is switched to an open state. For example, the current threshold and the current difference threshold are stored as constants in the memory of the control unit 83.

[0090] The first fault determination condition is based on the following situation: due to an open-circuit fault in the first power supply unit 90, current does not flow through the first switch unit 81, and instead, current from the second power supply unit 91 begins to flow through the second switch unit 82. Furthermore, the conditions that the magnitude of the current in signal A1 is less than a current threshold, and that signal A1 is less than signal A2 and the difference between signal A1 and signal A2 is greater than a current difference threshold, are equivalent to the power supply from the first power supply unit 90 becoming abnormal. In other words, the first fault determination condition is established when the power supply from the first power supply unit 90 stops (abnormal state).

[0091] If an open-circuit fault occurs in the first power supply unit 90 and the first fault determination condition is met, and the first switch unit 81 switches to the off state, the charge accumulated in the first power supply side conductive circuit 80A is discharged to the reference conductive circuit G through the first power consumption unit 184A, the ground wire 84F, and the fourth terminal 86D. The signal V1 is smaller than the signal V3. During the open-circuit fault determination operation, when the difference between the signal V1 and the signal V3 exceeds the difference threshold ThP, the control unit 83 determines that an open-circuit fault has occurred in the first power supply unit 90 and maintains the output of the cut-off signal Off to the first switch unit 81.

[0092] Furthermore, if the second fault determination condition is met, the control unit 83 switches the second switch unit 82 to the off state. Specifically, when the conditions that serve as the second fault determination condition—namely, the magnitude of the current in signal A2 being less than a current threshold, or signal A2 being less than signal A1 and the difference between signal A1 and signal A2 being greater than a current difference threshold—are met, the control unit 83 outputs a cut-off signal Off to the second switch unit 82. Thus, the second switch unit 82 is switched to the off state.

[0093] The second fault determination condition is based on the following situation: due to an open-circuit fault in the second power supply unit 91, current does not flow through the second conductive path 80F; instead, the current flowing through the first conductive path 80E from the first power supply unit 90 can increase. Furthermore, the conditions that the magnitude of the current in signal A2 is less than a current threshold, and that signal A2 is less than signal A1 and the difference between signal A1 and signal A2 is greater than a current difference threshold, are equivalent to the power supply from the second power supply unit 91 becoming abnormal. In other words, the second fault determination condition is established when the current supply from the second power supply unit 91 stops (abnormal state).

[0094] If an open-circuit fault occurs in the second power supply unit 91, and the second fault determination condition is met, and the second switch unit 82 switches to the off state, the charge accumulated in the second power supply side conductive circuit 80C is discharged to the reference conductive circuit G via the second power consumption unit 184B, the ground wire 84F, and the fourth terminal 86D. Signal V2 is smaller than signal V3. During the open-circuit fault determination operation, the control unit 83 determines that an open-circuit fault has occurred in the second power supply unit 91 when the difference between signal V2 and signal V3 exceeds the difference threshold ThP, and maintains the output of the cut-off signal Off to the second switch unit 82. The current thresholds included in the first fault determination condition and the second fault determination condition can be the same or different. The current difference thresholds included in the first fault determination condition and the second fault determination condition can be the same or different.

[0095] The power supply device 30 includes a control unit 83 that controls the first switch section 81. The control unit 83 switches the first switch section 81 to an open state based on the current flowing through the first conductive path 80E. Structures that detect the current in the conductive path 80 are commonly used. Therefore, it is easy to implement a structure that switches the first switch section 81 to an open state based on the current flowing through the first conductive path 80E.

[0096] <Implementation Method 4>

[0097] Figure 5 The vehicle system 400 shown differs from Embodiment 3 in that it has a temperature detection unit 93 instead of a current detection unit 94, and in the operation of the control unit 83, but is otherwise similar. In the following description, detailed descriptions of structures identical to those in Embodiment 3 will be omitted.

[0098] The temperature detection unit 93 includes a first temperature detection unit 93A and a second temperature detection unit 93B. The first temperature detection unit 93A and the second temperature detection unit 93B can be configured as, for example, a thermistor or a temperature-sensing resistor. The first temperature detection unit 93A and the second temperature detection unit 93B are configured to output a temperature signal indicating the ambient temperature of their respective positions. The first temperature detection unit 93A and the second temperature detection unit 93B are housed in an electrical connection box 85. The first temperature detection unit 93A is located near the first switch unit 81. The first temperature detection unit 93A outputs a signal T1 (hereinafter, also simply referred to as signal T1) that determines the temperature of the first switch unit 81. The second temperature detection unit 93B is located near the second switch unit 82. The second temperature detection unit 93B outputs a signal T2 (hereinafter, also simply referred to as signal T2) that determines the temperature of the second switch unit 82.

[0099] The control unit 83 is configured to perform control that switches the first switch unit 81 to the off state based on the temperature (signal T2) of the second switch unit 82, and switches the second switch unit 82 to the off state based on the temperature (signal T1) of the first switch unit 81. The control unit 83 switches the first switch unit 81 to the off state when a first fault determination condition is met. Specifically, as the first fault determination condition, when the magnitude of signal T2 is greater than a temperature threshold, or when signal T2 is greater than signal T1 and the difference between signal T1 and signal T2 is greater than a temperature difference threshold, a cut-off signal Off is output to the first switch unit 81. Thus, the first switch unit 81 switches to the off state. For example, the temperature threshold and the temperature difference threshold are stored as constants in the memory of the control unit 83, etc.

[0100] The first fault determination condition is based on the following situation: due to an open-circuit fault in the first power supply unit 90, current does not flow through the first switch unit 81. Instead, current from the second power supply unit 91 begins to flow through the second switch unit 82, thereby causing the temperature of the first switch unit 81 to decrease and the temperature of the second switch unit 82 to increase. Furthermore, the conditions that the magnitude of signal T2 is greater than a temperature threshold, and that signal T2 is greater than signal T1 and the difference between signal T1 and signal T2 is greater than a temperature difference threshold, are equivalent to the power supply from the first power supply unit 90 becoming abnormal. In other words, the first fault determination condition is established when the power supply from the first power supply unit 90 stops (abnormal state).

[0101] If an open-circuit fault occurs in the first power supply unit 90 and the first fault determination condition is met, and the first switch unit 81 switches to the off state, the charge accumulated in the first power supply side conductive circuit 80A is discharged to the reference conductive circuit G through the first power consumption unit 184A, the ground wire 84F, and the fourth terminal 86D. The signal V1 is smaller than the signal V3. During the open-circuit fault determination operation, when the difference between the signal V1 and the signal V3 exceeds the difference threshold ThP, the control unit 83 determines that an open-circuit fault has occurred in the first power supply unit 90 and maintains the output of the cut-off signal Off to the first switch unit 81.

[0102] Furthermore, if the second fault determination condition is met, the control unit 83 switches the second switch unit 82 to the off state. Specifically, as the second fault determination condition, the control unit 83 outputs a cut-off signal Off to the second switch unit 82 when the following conditions are met: the magnitude of signal T1 is greater than a temperature threshold, or signal T1 is greater than signal T2 and the difference between signal T1 and signal T2 is greater than a temperature difference threshold. Thus, the second switch unit 82 is switched to the off state.

[0103] The second fault determination condition is based on the following situation: due to an open-circuit fault in the second power supply unit 91, current does not flow through the second switch unit 82. Instead, the current flowing from the first power supply unit 90 to the first switch unit 81 increases, thereby causing the temperature of the first switch unit 81 to rise and the temperature of the second switch unit 82 to fall. Furthermore, the conditions that signal T1 is greater than a temperature threshold, and that signal T1 is greater than signal T2 and the difference between signal T1 and signal T2 is greater than a temperature difference threshold, are equivalent to the power supply from the second power supply unit 91 becoming abnormal. In other words, the second fault determination condition is established when the power supply from the second power supply unit 91 stops (abnormal state).

[0104] If an open-circuit fault occurs in the second power supply unit 91, and the second fault determination condition is met, and the second switch unit 82 switches to the off state, the charge accumulated in the second power supply side conductive circuit 80C is discharged to the reference conductive circuit G via the second power consumption unit 184B, the ground wire 84F, and the fourth terminal 86D. Signal V2 is smaller than signal V3. During the open-circuit fault determination operation, when the difference between signal V2 and signal V3 exceeds the difference threshold ThP, the control unit 83 determines that an open-circuit fault has occurred in the second power supply unit 91 and maintains the output of the cut-off signal Off to the second switch unit 82. The temperature thresholds included in the first fault determination condition and the second fault determination condition can be the same or different. The temperature difference thresholds included in the first fault determination condition and the second fault determination condition can be the same or different.

[0105] The power supply device 40 has a control unit 83 that controls the first switch section 81. The control unit 83 switches the first switch section 81 to an open state based on the temperature of the second switch section 82. According to this structure, since the first switch section 81 is switched to an open state based on the temperature of the second switch section 82, the control of switching the first switch section 81 to an open state can be performed more simply compared to the case of detecting voltage or current.

[0106] <Other Implementation Methods>

[0107] The embodiments disclosed herein should be considered illustrative rather than restrictive in all respects. The scope of the invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed herein, but is shown by the claims and is intended to include all modifications with the same meaning and scope as the claims.

[0108] Alternatively, unlike embodiments 1, 2, 3, and 4, the control unit can be located outside the electrical connection box. Alternatively, it can be configured such that an external ECU functions as the control unit, and the power supply device does not include a control unit.

[0109] Alternatively, unlike implementation methods 1, 2, 3, and 4, the control unit may consist of multiple hardware circuits other than the MCU.

[0110] Alternatively, unlike embodiment 4, the temperature detection unit can be positioned near both the first power supply unit and the second power supply unit. It can also be configured such that a signal representing the temperature of the first and second power supply units is input from the temperature detection unit to the control unit, and the control unit switches the first switch unit to an off state based on the temperature of the second power supply unit, and switches the second switch unit to an off state based on the temperature of the first power supply unit.

[0111] Unlike embodiments 1, 2, 3, and 4, the configuration can be a structure using a pair of FETs in each switching section, or a structure combining a pair of FETs and a single FET in the switch. For example, when a pair of FETs is used in the first switching section, the body diodes are connected with opposite orientations to switch between an on and off state. The on state allows bidirectional current flow through the first switching section between the first power supply side conductor and the first load side conductor, while the off state blocks the current flowing between the first load side conductor and the first power supply side conductor. Similarly, when a pair of FETs is used in the second switching section, the body diodes are connected with opposite orientations to switch between an on and off state. The on state allows bidirectional current flow through the second switching section between the second power supply side conductor and the second load side conductor, while the off state blocks the current flowing between the second load side conductor and the second power supply side conductor. Furthermore, when using a pair of FETs, the connection is not limited to a single FET.

[0112] Alternatively, unlike embodiment 4, the first fault determination condition can be supplemented with a condition that the temperature change per unit time in the second switch unit is greater than a temperature change threshold, and a cut-off signal can be output to the first switch unit when the first fault determination condition is met. Alternatively, the second fault determination condition can be supplemented with a condition that the temperature change per unit time in the first switch unit is greater than a temperature change threshold, and a cut-off signal can be output to the second switch unit when the second fault determination condition is met.

[0113] Alternatively, unlike embodiments 1, 2, 3, and 4, the third voltage detection unit may be located in the second load-side conductive circuit.

[0114] Alternatively, unlike embodiments 1, 2, 3, and 4, the first power supply unit can be configured as a structure that connects a battery and a DC-DC converter. For example, the DC-DC converter can be connected to the first terminal, and power based on the output voltage of the battery can be supplied to the power supply device from the DC-DC converter.

[0115] Unlike implementation method 1, a third power consumption unit may not be provided.

[0116] Label Explanation

[0117] 10, 20, 30, 40: Power supply devices

[0118] 70: Load

[0119] 80: Electrical Conductive Circuit

[0120] 80A: First power supply side conductive path (conductive path)

[0121] 80B: First load-side conductive path (conductive path)

[0122] 80C: Second power supply side conductive path (conductive path)

[0123] 80D: Second load-side conductive path (conductive path)

[0124] 80E: First conductive path (conductive path)

[0125] 80F: Second conductive path (conductive path)

[0126] 81: First Switch Section

[0127] 82: Second Switch Section

[0128] 83: Control Department

[0129] 84, 184: Electricity Consumption Department

[0130] 84A, 184A: First Power Consumption Unit

[0131] 84B, 184B: Second Power Consumption Department

[0132] 84C: Third Electricity Consumption Department

[0133] 84D, 84G, 84J: First voltage divider resistor (voltage divider resistor)

[0134] 84E, 84H, 84K: Second voltage divider resistor (voltage divider resistor)

[0135] 84F: Grounding wire

[0136] 85: Electrical connection box

[0137] 86: Terminal

[0138] 86A: First terminal

[0139] 86B: Second terminal

[0140] 86C: Third terminal

[0141] 86D: Fourth terminal

[0142] 87: Voltage Detection Section

[0143] 87A: First Voltage Detection Unit

[0144] 87B: Second Voltage Battery Section

[0145] 87C: Third Voltage Detection Unit

[0146] 90: First Power Supply Section

[0147] 91: Second Power Supply Section

[0148] 93: Temperature Detection Department

[0149] 93A: First Temperature Detection Department

[0150] 93B: Second Temperature Detection Unit

[0151] 94: Current Detection Section

[0152] 94A: First Current Detection Unit

[0153] 94B: Second Current Detection Unit

[0154] 100, 200, 300, 400: Vehicle system

[0155] A1, A2, T1, T2, V1, V2, V3: Signals

[0156] G: Reference conductive circuit

[0157] Off: Signal cutoff

[0158] On: Conduction signal

[0159] P1: First connection point

[0160] P2: Second connection point

[0161] P3: Third connection point

[0162] ThP: Difference threshold. Claims (as amended under Article 19 of the Treaty) 1. A power supply device included in a vehicle system, the vehicle system comprising: a first power supply unit including a battery; a second power supply unit; a conductive circuit disposed between the first power supply unit and the second power supply unit; and a load electrically connected to the conductive circuit, wherein... The power supply device has: A first switching section, a first conductive path disposed between the first power supply section and the load in the conductive path; and Department of Electricity Consumption The power-consuming part is electrically connected to the first power supply side conductor between the first power supply part and the first switch part in the first conductive circuit and consumes the power supplied from the first power supply side conductor. 2. The power supply device according to claim 1, wherein, The power supply device has: A second switching section, a second conductive path disposed between the second power supply section and the load in the conductive path; and The electrical connection box houses the first switch section and the second switch section. The power consumption unit is housed in the electrical connection box. 3. The power supply device according to claim 2, wherein, The power consumption unit is a voltage detection unit installed in the conductive circuit on the first power supply side. The voltage detection unit has a voltage divider resistor, which divides the voltage of the first power supply side conductive circuit and outputs it. 4. The power supply device according to claim 2, wherein, The power supply device has a voltage detection unit disposed in the conductive circuit on the first power supply side. The power consumption unit and the voltage detection unit are set up independently. 5. The power supply device according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein, The power supply device has a control unit that controls the first switching unit. The control unit periodically switches the first switch to the off state. 6. The power supply device according to claim 2 or claim 4, wherein, The power supply device has a control unit that controls the first switching unit. The control unit switches the first switch to the off state based on the current flowing through the first conductive circuit. 7. The power supply device according to claim 2 or claim 4, wherein, The power supply device has a control unit that controls the first switching unit. The control unit switches the first switch to the off state based on the temperature of the second power supply unit or the temperature of the second switch unit. 8. The power supply device according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein, The power supply device has a control unit that controls the first switching unit. When the first fault determination condition is met, the control unit switches the first switch to the off state and determines whether the first power supply unit has an open circuit fault based on the voltage of the first power supply side conductive circuit. 9. The power supply device according to claim 8, wherein, The control unit controls the second switching unit. When the second fault determination condition is met, the control unit switches the second switch to the off state and determines whether the second power supply unit has an open circuit fault based on the voltage of the second power supply side conductive circuit between the second power supply unit and the second switch unit in the second conductive circuit.

Claims

1. A power supply device included in a vehicle system, the vehicle system comprising: a first power supply unit including a battery; a second power supply unit; a conductive circuit disposed between the first power supply unit and the second power supply unit; and a load electrically connected to the conductive circuit, wherein... The power supply device has: A first switching section is provided in the first conductive path between the first power supply section and the load in the conductive path; A second switching section is provided in the second conductive path between the second power supply section and the load in the conductive path; An electrical connection box is provided to house the first switch section and the second switch section; and The power consumption unit is housed in the electrical connection box. The power-consuming part is electrically connected to the first power supply side conductor between the first power supply part and the first switch part in the first conductive circuit and consumes the power supplied from the first power supply side conductor.

2. The power supply device according to claim 1, wherein, The power consumption unit is a voltage detection unit installed in the conductive circuit on the first power supply side. The voltage detection unit has a voltage divider resistor, which divides the voltage of the first power supply side conductive circuit and outputs it.

3. The power supply device according to claim 1, wherein, The power supply device has a voltage detection unit disposed in the conductive circuit on the first power supply side. The power consumption unit and the voltage detection unit are set up independently.

4. The power supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The power supply device has a control unit that controls the first switching unit. The control unit periodically switches the first switch to the off state.

5. The power supply device according to claim 1 or claim 3, wherein, The power supply device has a control unit that controls the first switching unit. The control unit switches the first switch to the off state based on the current flowing through the first conductive circuit.

6. The power supply device according to claim 1 or claim 3, wherein, The power supply device has a control unit that controls the first switching unit. The control unit switches the first switch to the off state based on the temperature of the second power supply unit or the temperature of the second switch unit.

7. The power supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The power supply device has a control unit that controls the first switching unit. When the first fault determination condition is met, the control unit switches the first switch to the off state and determines whether the first power supply unit has an open circuit fault based on the voltage of the first power supply side conductive circuit.

8. The power supply device according to claim 7, wherein, The control unit controls the second switching unit. When the second fault determination condition is met, the control unit switches the second switch to the off state and determines whether the second power supply unit has an open circuit fault based on the voltage of the second power supply side conductive circuit between the second power supply unit and the second switch unit in the second conductive circuit.

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