Connector device

Abstract

The invention provides a connector device. The connector device includes: a connector including a first end, the first end being provided with a fitting portion to be fitted into an insertion port and a locking portion to lock the fitting portion; an AC charging cable that can be attached to and detached from the second end of the connector and that can be electrically connected to an external power source; and an AC discharge connector that can be attached to and detached from the second end of the connector and that can be electrically connected to an electrical device. The AC charging cable transmits power from an external power source to the connector in a state of being electrically connected to the external power source and electrically connected to the second end. The AC discharge connector transmits power from the connector to the electrical device in a state of being electrically connected to the electrical device and connected to the second end.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to connector devices. Background Technology

[0002] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2013-211146 discloses a power connector that can supply power to an external load through an insertion port installed in a vehicle. Summary of the Invention

[0003] Although not explicitly described in the aforementioned Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2013-211146, the power supply connector has a different structure from the charging connector installed in the insertion port when charging the vehicle's electrical storage device. Therefore, vehicle users need to change the connector used depending on their purpose. Consequently, users who both supply and charge power sometimes possess both a power supply connector and a charging connector. In this case, it is considered that the space available for configuring the power supply connector and the charging connector becomes larger.

[0004] This disclosure was made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and its purpose is to provide a connector device that can suppress the increase of configuration space.

[0005] One aspect of this disclosure relates to a connector device comprising:

[0006] A connector component includes a first side portion and a second side portion. The first side portion is provided with an insertion port connection portion capable of connecting to an insertion port of a vehicle and a locking portion for locking the insertion port connection portion connected to the insertion port. The second side portion is provided at a different position from the first side portion.

[0007] The first connecting member is detachable from the second side portion and can be electrically connected to an external power source; and

[0008] The second connecting member is detachable from the second side portion and can be electrically connected to external equipment.

[0009] The first connecting member is configured to transmit power from the external power source to the connector member when it is electrically connected to an external power source and partially connected to the second side.

[0010] The second connecting member is configured to transmit power from the connector member to the external device when it is electrically connected to the external device and connected to the second side portion.

[0011] As described above, one aspect of the connector device according to the present invention includes: a connector member; a first connecting member detachable from the connector member and electrically connected to an external power source; and a second connecting member detachable from the connector member and electrically connected to an external device. Therefore, compared to a charging connector where the connector member and the first connecting member are integrated, and a discharging connector where the connector member and the second connecting member are integrated, the structure of the connector device can be simplified by using only one connector member. As a result, the need for a larger configuration space for the connector device can be prevented.

[0012] Furthermore, since the connector assembly, the first connecting member, and the second connecting member are independent components, in the event of a malfunction in any of them, the faulty component can be repaired or replaced independently. This simplifies the maintenance of the connection device.

[0013] Alternatively, the first connecting member may include:

[0014] The first connector connecting part is capable of connecting to the second side part; and

[0015] The first plug, located in a different position from the first connector connection part, can be connected to the first socket of an external power source.

[0016] Alternatively, the second connecting member may include:

[0017] A second connector connecting part capable of connecting to the second side portion; and

[0018] The second socket is located at a different position from the second connector connection part and can be connected to the second plug of an external device.

[0019] With this structure, the first connecting member can be easily electrically connected to the connector member and the external power supply, respectively. Furthermore, the second connecting member can be easily electrically connected to the connector member and the external device, respectively.

[0020] Alternatively, the connector component may include a first resistive element portion, which is electrically connected to the vehicle when the insertion connection portion is connected to the insertion port.

[0021] The first connecting member is not electrically connected to the first resistive element when it is connected to the second side portion.

[0022] The second connecting member includes a second resistive element portion, which is electrically connected to the first resistive element portion when the second connecting member is connected to the second side portion.

[0023] Based on this structure, the vehicle can detect which of the first and second connecting members is connected to the connector member (i.e., which one is being charged or discharged) based on the change in resistance value.

[0024] The first resistive element may also include:

[0025] The first resistive element; and

[0026] In a parallel circuit, the second resistor and the first switch are connected in parallel, and the second switch is connected in series with the first resistor.

[0027] The connector component includes an operable first operating part.

[0028] By operating the first operating unit, the locking action performed by the locking unit is released, and the first switch is turned off.

[0029] The second resistor element section includes:

[0030] A series circuit in which the second switch and the third resistive element are connected in series; and

[0031] The fourth resistive element is connected in parallel with the series circuit.

[0032] The second connecting member includes an operable second operating part.

[0033] By operating the second operating unit, the second switch is made to be in the closed state.

[0034] With this structure, the second switch closes when the second operating unit is operated, causing a change in the resistance value of the connector device. Therefore, the vehicle can change the discharge sequence (e.g., start a discharge sequence) based on this change in resistance. Conversely, the first switch opens when the first operating unit is operated, causing a change in the resistance value of the connector device. Therefore, the vehicle can change the charging sequence (e.g., stop a charging sequence) based on this change in resistance. Furthermore, by opening the first switch and releasing the locking mechanism, the connector member can be removed from the insertion port while the first switch is in the open state.

[0035] Furthermore, since the first operating unit and the second operating unit can be disposed on different components, it is possible to suppress the user from misoperating the first operating unit and the second operating unit (for example, mistakenly operating the second operating unit when releasing the locking part) compared to the case where the first operating unit and the second operating unit are disposed on the same component.

[0036] The connector components may also include pilot wiring for transmitting pilot signals.

[0037] The second connecting member is not electrically connected to the pilot wiring when it is connected to the connector member.

[0038] The first connecting member includes a signal generating unit that is electrically connected to the pilot wiring and generates a pilot signal when the first connecting member and the connector member are connected.

[0039] Based on this structure, the vehicle can detect which of the first and second connecting members is connected to the connector member (i.e., which one is being charged or discharged) based on whether a pilot signal has been sent from the connector device.

[0040] According to the present invention, it is possible to prevent the configuration space of the connector device from becoming too large. Attached Figure Description

[0041] The features, advantages, and technical and industrial significance of exemplary embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which the same reference numerals denote the same elements, and wherein:

[0042] Figure 1 This is a diagram showing the structure of the connector device and the vehicle according to this embodiment.

[0043] Figure 2 This is a partial enlarged view of the connection between the connector and the insertion port of the connector assembly.

[0044] Figure 3 This is a diagram showing the circuit structure when the connector with the AC charging cable is connected to the insertion port.

[0045] Figure 4 This is a diagram showing the circuit structure when a connector with an AC discharge connector is connected to the insertion port. Detailed Implementation

[0046] In the following description, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, identical or equivalent parts in the drawings will be labeled with the same reference numerals, and their descriptions will not be repeated.

[0047] The structure of the connector device 100 according to this embodiment will be described below. Figure 1 The image shows a connector device 100 and a vehicle 200 connected to the connector device 100. The vehicle 200 is, for example, a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle and a battery electric vehicle.

[0048] like Figure 1 As shown, the connector assembly 100 includes a connector 10, an AC charging cable 20, and an AC discharging connector 30. The connector 10 is an example of a "connector component" of this disclosure. Furthermore, the AC charging cable 20 and the AC discharging connector 30 are examples of a "first connecting component" and a "second connecting component" of this disclosure, respectively.

[0049] The vehicle 200 includes an ECU (electronic control unit) 210, an insertion port 220, a power conversion device 230, a locking mechanism 240, and a battery 250.

[0050] The connector 10 is configured to connect to the insertion port 220 of the vehicle 200. The connector 10 includes a first end 11, a second end 12, a mating portion 13, a locking portion 14, and a switch 15. The second end 12 is located on the opposite side of the first end 11. The mating portion 13 and the locking portion 14 are respectively located on the first end 11. Furthermore, the first end 11 and the second end 12 are examples of the "first side portion" and "second side portion" of this disclosure, respectively. Additionally, the mating portion 13 and the switch 15 are examples of the "insertion port connection portion" and "first operating portion" of this disclosure, respectively.

[0051] The fitting part 13 is configured to connect (fit) with the insertion port 220. The locking part 14 locks the fitting part 13 in the insertion port 220.

[0052] Figure 2 This is a close-up view of the insertion port 220 and the vicinity of assembly part 13. At switch 15 ( Figure 2 When 15A and 15B are not operated (pressed) by the user, the fitting part 13 that fits into the insertion port 220 is locked by the locking part 14. Figure 2 The locking part 13 is prevented from being removed from the insertion port 220 by engaging the stepped portion 220a provided on the insertion port 220 and the top end of the locking portion 14. Furthermore, in Figure 2 In the diagram, the switch 15 in the non-operating state and the locking part 14 when the switch 15 is in the non-operating state are respectively marked with symbols such as switch 15A and locking part 14A.

[0053] When switch 15 is pressed, the locking part 14 is released from engagement with the step part 220a by lifting the top of the locking part 14. This allows the fitting part 13 to be removed from the insertion port 220. Furthermore, in Figure 2 In the diagram, the switch 15 in the operating state and the locking part 14 when the switch 15 is in the operating state are respectively marked with symbols such as switch 15B and locking part 14B.

[0054] Refer again Figure 1The AC charging cable 20 is detachable from the connector 10. Specifically, the AC charging cable 20 includes a connector 21, a CCID (Charging Circuit Interruption Device) 22, a plug 23, and a cable 24. The connector 21 is disposed at a first end of the AC charging cable 20. The plug 23 is disposed at a second end of the AC charging cable 20 on the side opposite to the connector 21. The CCID 22 is disposed between the connector 21 and the plug 23. The cable 24 connects the connector 21, the CCID 22, and the plug 23. The connector 21 is configured to be detachable from the second end 12 of the connector 10. The connector 21 and the plug 23 are examples of the "first connector connection" and "first plug" of this disclosure, respectively.

[0055] The AC charging cable 20 can be electrically connected to an external power source 300. Specifically, the plug 23 of the AC charging cable 20 can be connected to the socket 310 of the external power source 300. By connecting the plug 23 to the socket 310, the external power source 300 and the AC charging cable 20 are electrically connected. Alternatively, the external power source 300 can also be a charging station that receives power from a power system (not shown). Furthermore, the socket 310 is an example of the "first socket" of this disclosure.

[0056] The AC discharge connector 30 is detachable from the connector 10. Specifically, the AC discharge connector 30 includes a connector 31, a socket 32, and a switch 33. The connector 31 is disposed at a first end of the AC discharge connector 30. The socket 32 ​​is disposed at a second end of the AC discharge connector 30 on the side opposite to the connector 31. The connector 31 is configured to be detachable from the second end 12 of the connector 10. The connector 31 and the socket 32 ​​are examples of the "second connector connection portion" and "second socket" of this disclosure, respectively. Furthermore, the switch 33 is an example of the "second operating portion" of this disclosure.

[0057] The AC discharge connector 30 is capable of electrical connection with the electrical device 400. Specifically, the plug 410 provided in the electrical device 400 can be connected to the socket 32 ​​of the AC discharge connector 30. By connecting the plug 410 to the socket 32, the AC discharge connector 30 is electrically connected to the electrical device 400. Furthermore, the electrical device 400 may include, for example, household appliances operating at AC 100V. The electrical device 400 may also be a device other than a household appliance (e.g., an energy storage device and a power station). Additionally, the electrical device 400 and the plug 410 are examples of "external device" and "second plug" respectively in this disclosure.

[0058] Furthermore, the AC charging cable 20 does not have a locking part for preventing the connection between connector 10 and connector 21. Connector 21 is stably fixed to connector 10 by engaging with the second end 12 of connector 10. Similarly, the AC discharging connector 30 does not have a locking part for preventing the connection between connector 10 and connector 31. Connector 31 is stably fixed to connector 10 by engaging with the second end 12 of connector 10.

[0059] In existing connector systems, the power supply connector and the charging connector have different structures, requiring vehicle users to change the connector used depending on their purpose. Therefore, users who need to both supply power and charge sometimes have both a power supply connector and a charging connector. In this case, the space required to configure the power supply connector and the charging connector is considered to be larger.

[0060] Therefore, in this embodiment, the AC charging cable 20 transmits power from the external power source 300 to the connector 10 when it is electrically connected to the external power source 300 and connected to the connector 10. The AC discharging connector 30 transmits power from the connector 10 (battery 250) to the electrical device 400 when it is electrically connected to the electrical device 400 and connected to the connector 10.

[0061] Therefore, connector 10 can be used as a common component in both charging and discharging scenarios. As a result, compared to the case where multiple components corresponding to connector 10 are provided, the structural redundancy of connector device 100 can be suppressed. Thus, the configuration space of connector device 100 can be prevented from increasing.

[0062] Battery 250 may be configured as a rechargeable energy storage element, such as a nickel-metal hydride battery or a lithium-ion battery with a solid or liquid electrolyte. Alternatively, battery 250 may simply be an energy storage device capable of storing electricity; for example, a large-capacity capacitor may be used instead of battery 250.

[0063] For battery 250, external charging is performed using power supplied from external power source 300. External charging includes AC charging, which uses AC power supplied from external power source 300 to insertion port 220 and converted into DC power in power conversion device 230.

[0064] The insertion port 220, together with a cover (not shown) such as a lid, is located on the exterior of the vehicle 200. The insertion port 220 is capable of receiving power from an external power source 300 for charging the battery 250. Furthermore, the insertion port 220 enables the supply of power from the battery 250 to the electrical equipment 400 (AC discharge). AC discharge refers to the external discharge of alternating current (AC) power from the vehicle 200 to the electrical equipment 400.

[0065] The insertion port 220 includes AC connection parts 221 and 222 and communication parts 223, 224 and 225.

[0066] When connector 10 is connected to insertion port 220, the AC connection portion of connector 10 (refer to...) Figure 3 The connector 10 is electrically connected to the AC connection portions 221 and 222 of the insertion port 220, and the communication portion (see reference) of the connector 10 is also electrically connected to the AC connection portions 221 and 222 of the insertion port 220. Figure 3 It is connected to the communication section 223-225 of the insertion port 220.

[0067] The power conversion device 230 performs power conversion between the battery 250 and the insertion port 220 according to the control signal from the ECU 210.

[0068] When the battery 250 is AC charged with the connector 10 connected to the insertion port 220 and connected to the AC charging cable 20, the power conversion device 230 converts the AC power supplied from the AC charging cable 20 into DC power and uses the converted DC power to charge the battery 250.

[0069] Furthermore, when AC discharge of the battery 250 is performed with the connector 10 connected to the AC discharge connector 30 connected to the insertion port 220 and the plug 410 of the electrical device 400 connected to the socket 32 ​​of the AC discharge connector 30, the power conversion device 230 converts the DC power supplied from the battery 250 into AC power and supplies the converted AC power (e.g., AC 100V) to the electrical device 400.

[0070] The locking mechanism 240 can restrict the removal of the connector 10 installed in the insertion port 220, setting it to a state of being fixed to the insertion port 220 (locked state), or release the restriction on the removal of the connector 10, setting it to a state of being removed from the insertion port 220 (unlocked state). The locking mechanism 240 may be provided with an actuator, for example, which moves a component to a position restricting the movement of the connector 10 installed in the insertion port 220 to achieve the locked state, or moves the component to a position allowing the movement of the connector 10 installed in the insertion port 220 to achieve the unlocked state. That is, the locking mechanism 240 switches from either the locked state or the unlocked state to the other state based on a control signal from the ECU 210.

[0071] The ECU 210 has a built-in CPU (Central Processing Unit) 211 and a memory (e.g., including ROM (Read Only Memory), RAM (Random Access Memory)) 212. Based on the mapping and program information stored in the memory 212 and information from various sensors, it controls various devices (e.g., power conversion device 230, locking mechanism 240) in a way that makes the vehicle 200 reach the desired state. In addition, the various controls performed by the ECU 210 are not limited to software processing and can be executed by constructing dedicated hardware (electronic circuits).

[0072] Furthermore, when connector 10 (connector 10 that connects to AC charging cable 20 or AC discharging connector 30) is installed into insertion port 220, ECU 210 performs communication processing to receive predetermined information from the device on the connector side. The predetermined information includes, for example, information related to power that can be exchanged between external power source 300 and battery 250 (e.g., connector connection signal PISW, described later).

[0073] For example, when connector 10 is installed into insertion port 220, ECU 210 will connect the communication unit of connector 10 (see...) Figure 3 The connector 10 is connected to communication units 223, 224, and 225 of the insertion port 220 and receives information about the power exchanged between the installed connector 10 and the insertion port 220. This information indicates whether the exchanged power is AC power, charging power, or discharging power, etc.

[0074] Figure 3 An example of a circuit structure is shown where the connector 10, connected to the AC charging cable 20, is connected to the insertion port 220. (Refer to...) Figure 3 The following description describes the structure of the connector 10 connected to the AC charging cable 20 in the state where the insertion port 220 is connected.

[0075] AC charging cable 20 includes voltage line L10, voltage line N10, and grounding line PE10. Voltage line L10, voltage line N10, and grounding line PE10 are connected to terminals 23a, 23b, and 23c of plug 23, respectively. Terminal 23c (grounding line PE10) is grounded.

[0076] CCID22 includes relays K1 and K2, a control device 22a, and an oscillation circuit 22b. Relays K1 and K2 are respectively disposed on voltage line L10 and voltage line N10. The control device 22a and the oscillation circuit 22b constitute a signal generation unit 22c. The signal generation unit 22c (oscillation circuit 22b) is electrically connected to the signal line L1 (described later) of connector 10 when connector 21 is connected to connector 10 (second terminal 12). Furthermore, when relays K1 and K2 are in the open state, the power supply path is cut off. Additionally, when relays K1 and K2 are in the closed state, power is supplied from external power source 300 (…). Figure 1 The AC power can be supplied to the vehicle 200 via AC charging cable 20, connector 10 and insertion port 220.

[0077] The oscillation circuit 22b outputs a pilot signal CPLT to the ECU 210 via connector 10 and insertion port 220. The potential of the pilot signal CPLT is operated by the ECU 210, and the pilot signal CPLT is used as a signal for remotely operating relays K1 and K2 from the ECU 210.

[0078] The control device 22a controls the relays K1 and K2 based on the pilot signal CPLT. Additionally, the pilot signal CPLT is used as a signal to notify the ECU 210 of the rated current during AC charging from the oscillation circuit 22b.

[0079] The control device 22a includes a CPU and a memory (not shown). The control device 22a detects the potential of the pilot signal CPLT output by the oscillation circuit 22b, and controls the operation of the oscillation circuit 22b based on the detected potential of the pilot signal CPLT.

[0080] When the connector 10 is not connected to the insertion port 220, the control device 22a controls the operation of the oscillation circuit 22b to output a pilot signal CPLT with a potential of V0 (e.g., +12V) and no oscillation.

[0081] Specifically, the oscillation circuit 22b includes, for example, a switch S1 and a resistor R1. The first terminal of the resistor R1 is connected to the switch S1. The switch S1 is positioned between the resistor R1 and the control device 22a.

[0082] Switch S1 is configured to connect either the +12V power supply of control device 22a or the oscillation mechanism of control device 22a to resistor R1. When connector 10 is not connected to insertion port 220, control device 22a controls switch S1, causing the +12V power supply to be connected to resistor R1. Therefore, oscillation circuit 22b outputs a +12V, non-oscillating pilot signal CPLT to terminal 21a (described later).

[0083] When connector 10 is connected to insertion port 220, control device 22a controls the operation of oscillator circuit 22b, causing the output to oscillate a pilot signal CPLT at a specified frequency and duty cycle.

[0084] Specifically, for example, when connector 10 is connected to insertion port 220, resistor R1 and resistor R3 (described later) on the vehicle 200 side enter the conducting state, and the potential of pilot signal CPLT drops to V1, which is lower than V0. Therefore, control device 22a controls switch S1 to make the oscillator connected to resistor R1. Therefore, oscillation circuit 22b outputs pilot signal CPLT, which has an upper limit of potential V1 and oscillates at a specified frequency and duty cycle, to terminal 21a (described later).

[0085] When the upper limit of the pilot signal CPLT's potential decreases to V2 (< V1), control device 22a controls relays K1 and K2 to close. Power from external power source 300 is then supplied to insertion port 220 via AC charging cable 20 and connector 10. The upper limit of the pilot signal CPLT's potential decreases to V2, for example, because switch S2 (described later) becomes active.

[0086] Connector 10 includes signal lines L1 to L5. Signal lines L1 to L5 are respectively located in mating portion 13 ( Figure 1 When engaged in the insertion port 220, it is electrically connected to the vehicle 200. Signal line L1 is an example of the "pilot wiring" of this disclosure.

[0087] The connector 10 includes a resistive element section 16. The resistive element section 16 includes a resistor R4, a resistor RC, and a switch S3. Furthermore, the resistive element section 16 is an example of a "first resistive element section" according to this disclosure. Additionally, the resistor RC is an example of a "first resistive element" according to this disclosure. Moreover, the resistor R4 and the switch S3 are examples of a "second resistive element" and a "first switch" according to this disclosure, respectively.

[0088] Resistor R4 and switch S3 are connected in parallel to form parallel circuit 16a. Resistor RC is connected in series with parallel circuit 16a. With connector 10 connected to insertion port 220, resistor RC is positioned between parallel circuit 16a and communication unit 224.

[0089] The resistance of resistor RC is smaller than that of resistor R4. For example, the resistance of resistor RC can also be less than half the resistance of resistor R4.

[0090] In addition, switch S3 is the switch corresponding to switch 15. Specifically, when switch 15 is operated (pressed), switch S3 is in the open state, and when switch 15 is not operated (pressed), switch S3 is in the closed state.

[0091] The combined resistance value of the resistor element 16 when switch S3 is in the open state is different from the combined resistance value of the resistor element 16 when switch S3 is closed.

[0092] Connector 21 has terminals 21a to 21e. Signal line L1 electrically connects the communication section 225 of insertion port 220 to terminal 21a of connector 21. Terminal 21a is electrically connected to control device 22a and oscillation circuit 22b.

[0093] Signal line L2 electrically connects the communication section 224 of the insertion port 220 and the terminal 21b of the connector 21. Resistor element 16 is disposed on signal line L2. The AC charging cable 20 does not have wiring that is electrically connected to signal line L2 when the AC charging cable 20 is connected to the second end 12 of the connector 10. Additionally, switch S3 and resistor R4 are connected to ground line L3.

[0094] Grounding wire L3 electrically connects the communication section 223 of the insertion port 220 to terminal 21c of the connector 21. Grounding wire PE10 is connected to terminal 21c.

[0095] Signal line L4 electrically connects the AC connection portion 222 of the insertion port 220 and the terminal 21d of the connector 21. Additionally, voltage line N10 is connected to terminal 21d.

[0096] Signal line L5 electrically connects the AC connection portion 221 of the insertion port 220 and the terminal 21e of the connector 21. Additionally, voltage line L10 is connected to terminal 21e.

[0097] The vehicle 200 also includes a resistor circuit 260 comprising a switch S2 and a resistor R3. Additionally, the vehicle 200 includes a signal line L1a connected to the communication unit 225, a signal line L2a connected to the communication unit 224, and a ground line L3a connected to the communication unit 223. The ground line L3a is grounded. The resistor circuit 260 is a circuit used to operate on the potential of the pilot signal CPLT generated on the signal line L1. Furthermore, a diode D1 is disposed on the signal line L1a, and this diode D1 is positively oriented from the communication unit 225 side toward the resistor R2 (R3) side.

[0098] Resistor R2's first terminal is connected to ground line L3a via switch S2. Resistor R2's second terminal is connected to signal line L1a, which generates the pilot signal CPLT. Resistor R3 is connected between signal line L1a and ground line L3a. That is, resistor R3's first terminal is connected to ground line L3a, and resistor R3's second terminal is connected to signal line L1a. Switch S2 is turned on / off according to the control signal from ECU210.

[0099] When connector 10 is connected to insertion port 220, and switch S2 is set to the open state (cut-off state), the potential of pilot signal CPLT becomes the potential (V1) determined by resistors R1 and R3. When connector 10 is connected to insertion port 220, and switch S2 is set to the closed state (conduction state), the potential of pilot signal CPLT becomes the potential (V2) determined by resistors R1, R2, and R3.

[0100] When connector 10 is connected to insertion port 220, ECU 210 changes the potential of pilot signal CPLT by turning switch S2 on / off, thereby requesting power from AC charging cable 20 and stopping power supply.

[0101] Specifically, the ECU210 requests power to the AC charging cable 20, for example, by setting switch S2 to the ON state to change the potential of the pilot signal CPLT from V1 to V2. Alternatively, the ECU210 requests the AC charging cable 20 to stop supplying power, for example, by setting switch S2 to the OFF state to change the potential of the pilot signal CPLT from V2 to V1.

[0102] When the control device 22a closes the relays K1 and K2 by turning the switch S2 on, AC power is supplied from the AC charging cable 20 to the power conversion device 230 via the insertion port 220. After the prescribed charging preparation process is completed, the ECU 210 activates the power conversion device 230 to convert the AC power into DC power to charge the battery 250.

[0103] Vehicle 200 includes resistor R5 and power supply Vsmp. The first terminal of resistor R5 is connected to communication unit 224, and the second terminal of resistor R5 is connected to power supply Vsmp. ECU 210 is configured to acquire the potential between resistor R5 and communication unit 224. A connection detection circuit, consisting of resistor RC, resistor R4, resistor R5, switch S3, and power supply Vsmp, detects the connection status between connector 10 and insertion port 220.

[0104] When connector 10 is not connected to insertion port 220, a potential (V3) signal is generated on signal line L2a, which is determined by the voltage of power supply Vsmp and the resistance value of resistor R5, as the connector connection signal PISW.

[0105] When the insertion port 220 is connected to the connector 10 and the switch 15 is in the non-operating state, a signal is generated on the signal line L2a, which is a potential (V4) determined by the voltage of the power supply Vsmp, the resistance R5, and the resistance RC, as the connector connection signal PISW.

[0106] When the connector 10 is connected to the insertion port 220 and the switch 15 is operated, a signal PISW is generated on the signal line L2a, which is a potential (V5) determined by the voltage of the power supply Vsmp, the resistor R4, the resistor R5, and the resistor RC.

[0107] Figure 4 This diagram shows an example of a circuit structure indicating that the connector 10, which is connected to the AC discharge connector 30, is connected to the insertion port 220. (Refer to...) Figure 4 The following description pertains to the structure of the connector 10 connected to the AC discharge connector 30 in the state of being connected to the insertion port 220.

[0108] The AC discharge connector 30 includes a voltage line L11, a voltage line N11, and a ground line PE11. Voltage lines L11, N11, and PE11 are connected to terminals 32a, 32b, and 32c of the socket 32, respectively. Terminal 32c (ground line PE11) is grounded.

[0109] The AC discharge connector 30 includes a resistive element section 34. The resistive element section 34 includes resistors R6 and R7, and a switch S4. Switch S4 and resistor R7 are respectively connected to the ground wire PE11. Furthermore, the resistive element section 34 and resistor R6 are examples of the "second resistive element section" and "third resistive element" of this disclosure, respectively. Additionally, resistor R7 and switch S4 are examples of the "fourth resistive element" and "second switch" of this disclosure, respectively.

[0110] Resistor R6 and switch S4 are connected in series. Resistor R6 and switch S4 form series circuit 34a. Resistor R7 is connected in parallel with series circuit 34a. Resistor R6 is connected to terminal 31b, described later.

[0111] The resistance of resistor R6 is smaller than that of resistor R7. For example, the resistance of resistor R6 can be less than half the resistance of resistor R7. Alternatively, resistor R6 can be less than the resistance RC of connector 10. Resistor R7 can also be larger than resistance RC and less than resistance R4.

[0112] Additionally, switch S4 is the switch corresponding to switch 33. Specifically, when switch 33 is operated (pressed), switch S3 becomes closed. Furthermore, when switch S3 is closed, switch S4 can also change to the open state after multiple consecutive operations of switch 33.

[0113] The combined resistance value of the resistor element 34 when switch S4 is in the open state is different from the combined resistance value of the resistor element 34 when switch S4 is in the closed state.

[0114] Connector 31 has terminals 31a to 31e. Signal line L1 electrically connects the communication section 225 of insertion port 220 and terminal 31a of connector 31. The wiring within AC discharge connector 30 is not connected to terminal 31a. That is, AC discharge connector 30 is not electrically connected to signal line L1 when connected to connector 10.

[0115] Signal line L2 electrically connects the communication section 224 of the insertion port 220 and the terminal 31b of the connector 31. Terminal 31b is connected to the resistor element section 34. That is, the resistor element section 34 is electrically connected to the resistor element section 16 when the AC discharge connector 30 is connected to the connector 10 (second end 12). Thus, the resistor element section 16 and the resistor element section 34 are connected in series.

[0116] Grounding wire L3 electrically connects the communication section 223 of the insertion port 220 to terminal 31c of the connector 31. Grounding wire PE11 is connected to terminal 31c.

[0117] Signal line L4 electrically connects the AC connection portion 222 of the insertion port 220 and the terminal 31d of the connector 31. Additionally, voltage line N11 is connected to terminal 31d.

[0118] Signal line L5 electrically connects the AC connection portion 221 of the insertion port 220 to the terminal 31e of the connector 31. Additionally, voltage line L11 is connected to terminal 31e.

[0119] When switch 15 and switch 33 are in the non-operating state, switch S3 is in the closed state and switch S4 is in the open state. In this case, a potential (V6) determined by the voltage of power supply Vsmp, resistor R5, resistor RC, and resistor R7 is generated on signal line L2a as the connector connection signal PISW.

[0120] When switch 15 is operated and switch 33 is in the non-operating state, switch S3 is in the open state and switch S4 is in the open state. In this case, a signal is generated on signal line L2a, which is a potential (V7) determined by the voltage of power supply Vsmp, resistor R5, resistor RC, resistor R4, and resistor R7, as the connector connection signal PISW.

[0121] When switch 15 is in the non-operating state and switch 33 is operated, switch S3 and switch S4 are both closed. In this case, a signal is generated on signal line L2a, which is a potential (V8) determined by the voltage of power supply Vsmp, resistors R5, RC, R6, and R7, as the connector connection signal PISW.

[0122] When both operation switch 15 and operation switch 33 are operated, switch S3 is in the open state and switch S4 is in the closed state. In this case, a signal is generated on signal line L2a, which is a potential (V9) determined by the voltage of power supply Vsmp, resistors R5, R4, RC, R6, and R7, as the connector connection signal PISW.

[0123] By acquiring the potential of the connector connection signal PISW, ECU210 can determine whether a connector device 100 is connected to the insertion port 220, and the state of the connector device 100 connected to the insertion port 220. Specifically, ECU210 calculates the resistance value (the resistance value of the circuit connected to the power supply Vsmp) based on the potential of the connector connection signal PISW, and performs the above determination based on the calculated resistance value. ECU210 calculates the resistance values ​​of the circuits other than resistor R5 in the circuit.

[0124] The resistance values ​​of the aforementioned resistors (R4, R5, R6, R7, RC) are set such that potentials V3 to V9 are different from each other (voltage ranges). Furthermore, information corresponding to the resistance values ​​for potentials V3 to V9 is stored in the memory 212 of the ECU 210. The ECU 210 performs the aforementioned determination by comparing the resistance values ​​calculated based on the potential of the connector connection signal PISW with the resistance values ​​stored in the memory 212. Additionally, the resistance values ​​corresponding to potentials V4 and V5 can be values ​​determined by the SAE-J1772 standard. The resistance values ​​corresponding to potentials V6 to V9 can be values ​​determined by guidelines such as EVPS-003. Furthermore, the resistance value corresponding to potential V3 is 0.

[0125] For example, if the calculated resistance value corresponds to the potential V4, the ECU210 can request power from the AC charging cable 20 by setting the switch S2 to the ON state (conducting state).

[0126] Furthermore, when the calculated resistance value is the same as the resistance value corresponding to potential V8, ECU210 can start the discharge sequence of battery 250.

[0127] (Modified Example)

[0128] In the above embodiments, an example is shown where the AC charging cable 20 and the AC discharging connector 30 can be connected to the connector 10, but this disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, instead of the AC charging cable 20, DC charging components (connectors, cables, etc.) can be connected to the connector 10. Furthermore, the AC charging cable 20, the AC discharging connector 30, and the DC charging components can be connected to the connector 10.

[0129] The embodiments disclosed herein should be considered illustrative rather than restrictive in all respects. The scope of this disclosure is set forth in the claims rather than by the foregoing description and is intended to include all modifications equivalent to and within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A connector device, wherein, The connector device includes: A connector component includes a first side portion and a second side portion. The first side portion is provided with an insertion port connection portion capable of connecting to an insertion port of a vehicle and a locking portion for locking the insertion port connection portion connected to the insertion port. The second side portion is provided at a different position from the first side portion. The first connecting member is detachable from the second side portion and can be electrically connected to an external power source; as well as The second connecting member is detachable from the second side portion and can be electrically connected to an external device. The first connecting member is configured to transmit power from the external power source to the connector member when it is electrically connected to the external power source and connected to the second side portion. The second connecting member is configured to transmit power from the connector member to the external device when it is electrically connected to the external device and connected to the second side portion.

2. The connector device according to claim 1, wherein, The first connecting member includes: A first connector connection portion capable of connecting to the second side portion; and The first plug is located at a different position from the first connector connection portion, and can be connected to the first socket of the external power supply. The second connecting member includes: A second connector connection portion capable of connecting to the second side portion; and The second socket is located at a different position from the second connector connection portion and can be connected to the second plug of the external device.

3. The connector device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The connector component includes a first resistive element portion, which is electrically connected to the vehicle when the insertion port connection portion is connected to the insertion port. The first connecting member is not electrically connected to the first resistive element when it is connected to the second side portion. The second connecting member includes a second resistive element portion, which is electrically connected to the first resistive element portion when the second connecting member is connected to the second side portion.

4. The connector device according to claim 3, wherein, The first resistive element includes: The first resistive element; and In a parallel circuit, the second resistive element and the first switch are connected in parallel, and the second switch is connected in series with the first resistive element. The connector component includes an operable first operating part. By operating the first operating unit, the locking action performed by the locking unit is released, and the first switch is turned off. The second resistive element includes: A series circuit in which the second switch and the third resistive element are connected in series; and The fourth resistive element is connected in parallel with the series circuit. The second connecting member includes an operable second operating part. By operating the second operating unit, the second switch is made to be in a closed state.

5. The connector device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The connector component includes pilot wiring for transmitting pilot signals. The second connecting member is not electrically connected to the pilot wiring when it is connected to the connector member. The first connecting member includes a signal generating unit, which is electrically connected to the pilot wiring and generates the pilot signal when the first connecting member and the connector member are connected.

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