Vehicle mode control device, vehicle mode control method, and computer program product

Abstract

The present application relates to a vehicle mode control device, a vehicle mode control method, and a computer program product. A vehicle mode in which operation of an air conditioner and a display is maintained during parking of the vehicle is ended against the user's intention of the vehicle. The vehicle mode control device includes a mode setting section (34) that sets a mode of the vehicle to a state-maintaining mode based on an instruction by a user of the vehicle (1), the state-maintaining mode maintaining a vehicle state in which power is supplied to an air conditioner (7) of the vehicle and a display (6) in the vehicle but power is not supplied to a drive system of the vehicle, and a threshold setting section (35) that sets a threshold value of a parameter related to a remaining amount of a main storage battery (14) of the vehicle based on an input by the user. The mode setting section ends the state-maintaining mode when the parameter decreases to the threshold value.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a vehicle mode control device, a vehicle mode control method, and a computer program product. Background Technology

[0002] Patent document 1 discloses a method for controlling the vehicle's air conditioning system (air conditioner) to a state suitable for napping when a napping state is detected, so that the vehicle user can get a comfortable sleep in the vehicle.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2023-031630 Summary of the Invention

[0006] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0007] However, aside from napping inside the car, there is a need to keep the air conditioner and display functioning in a parked vehicle. Therefore, a vehicle mode that allows the vehicle user to select to keep the air conditioner and display functioning is preferred.

[0008] In this situation, to avoid vehicle power depletion caused by continuous use of the air conditioner and display, it is considered to terminate the vehicle mode when the vehicle battery's remaining charge decreases. However, if such termination control is implemented, the vehicle mode may terminate against the user's will.

[0009] Therefore, in view of the above-mentioned issues, the object of the present invention is to end the vehicle mode that prevents the air conditioner and display from operating while the vehicle is parked, thus preventing it from going against the wishes of the vehicle user.

[0010] Technical solutions for solving the problem

[0011] The main points of this disclosure are as follows.

[0012] (1) A vehicle mode control device for controlling the mode of a vehicle, wherein the vehicle mode control device comprises: a mode setting unit that sets the mode of the vehicle to a state holding mode based on an instruction from a user of the vehicle, wherein the state holding mode maintains a vehicle state in which power is supplied to the air conditioner of the vehicle and the display in the vehicle but not to the drive system of the vehicle; and a threshold setting unit that sets a threshold value of a parameter related to the remaining charge of the main battery of the vehicle based on an input from the user, wherein the mode setting unit terminates the state holding mode when the parameter decreases to the threshold value.

[0013] (2) The vehicle mode control device according to (1) above, wherein the parameter is the SOC of the host battery.

[0014] (3) The vehicle mode control device according to (1) above, wherein the parameter is the drivable distance of the vehicle.

[0015] (4) The vehicle mode control device according to any one of (1) to (3) above, wherein the threshold setting unit displays the parameter operation unit that inputs the threshold on the display before the state holding mode begins.

[0016] (5) According to the vehicle mode control device described in (4) above, the threshold setting unit displays the parameter operation unit and the start button of the state holding mode together on the display.

[0017] (6) According to the vehicle mode control device described in (4) or (5) above, the threshold setting unit displays the value that was previously set as the threshold as the initial value of the threshold in the parameter operation unit.

[0018] (7) The vehicle mode control device according to any one of (1) to (6) above, wherein the threshold setting unit prohibits inputting a value greater than the current value of the parameter as the threshold during the execution of the state holding mode.

[0019] (8) The vehicle mode control device according to any one of (1) to (7) above, wherein the threshold setting unit calculates an estimated value of the duration of the state holding mode based on the current value of the parameter and the threshold, and displays the estimated value on the display.

[0020] (9) The vehicle mode control device according to any one of (1) to (8) above, wherein the mode setting unit temporarily sets the vehicle mode to a transfer mode before disconnecting the power supply to the vehicle at the end of the state holding mode, wherein in the transfer mode, power is supplied to the display and the display is turned off.

[0021] (10) The vehicle mode control device according to any one of (1) to (9) above, wherein the threshold setting unit displays the current value of the parameter and the threshold on the display when the state holding mode is executed.

[0022] (11) A vehicle mode control method executed by a computer, the vehicle mode control method comprising: setting the vehicle mode to a state holding mode based on an instruction from a user of the vehicle, wherein the state holding mode maintains a vehicle state in which power is supplied to the air conditioner and the display in the vehicle but not to the drive system of the vehicle; setting a threshold value of a parameter related to the remaining charge of the main battery of the vehicle based on input from the user; and ending the state holding mode when the parameter decreases to the threshold value.

[0023] (12) A computer program product comprising a computer program that causes a computer to perform: setting the vehicle's mode to a state-holding mode based on an instruction from a user of the vehicle, the state-holding mode maintaining a vehicle state in which power is supplied to the vehicle's air conditioner and the in-vehicle display but not to the vehicle's drive system; setting a threshold value for a parameter related to the remaining charge of the vehicle's main battery based on input from the user; and ending the state-holding mode when the parameter decreases to the threshold value.

[0024] Invention Effects

[0025] According to this disclosure, a vehicle mode that can suppress the operation of the air conditioner and display while the vehicle is parked will end against the wishes of the vehicle user. Attached Figure Description

[0026] Figure 1 This is a schematic structural diagram of a connection system including a vehicle equipped with the vehicle mode control device according to this embodiment.

[0027] Figure 2 This is a schematic structural diagram of a vehicle mode control system including the vehicle mode control device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] Figure 3 It is a diagram that roughly shows the interior of the vehicle in front of the driver's seat and the front passenger seat.

[0029] Figure 4 It is a diagram that roughly shows the flow of electricity between the electrical components of a vehicle.

[0030] Figure 5 It is a diagram showing the transition of the power state in a vehicle.

[0031] Figure 6 This is a functional block diagram of the ECU's processor.

[0032] Figure 7 This is an example of a confirmation screen indicating whether the status hold mode can be ended.

[0033] Figure 8 This is an example of a confirmation screen that asks whether the power status can be changed.

[0034] Figure 9 This is a flowchart illustrating the control routine for starting the mode processing in the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] Figure 10 This is an example of a screen showing the settings for the state retention mode.

[0036] Figure 11 This is an example of a screen showing the execution of a state-preserving mode.

[0037] Figure 12 This is another example of a screen showing the settings for the state retention mode.

[0038] Figure 13 This is another example of a screen showing the settings for the state retention mode.

[0039] Figure 14 This is a flowchart illustrating the control routine for mode termination processing in the second embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0040] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, in the following description, the same structural elements will be labeled with the same reference numerals.

[0041] <First Implementation Method>

[0042] Figure 1 This is a schematic structural diagram of a connection system 1000 including a vehicle 1 equipped with the vehicle mode control device according to this embodiment. The connection system 1000 includes a vehicle 1, a portable terminal 200, and a server 300. The vehicle 1 and the portable terminal 200 each communicate with the server 300 via a wireless base station 400 and a communication network 500. In this embodiment, the vehicle 1 is a four-wheeled automobile.

[0043] The portable terminal 200 is owned by a user of vehicle 1, and may include at least one of a smartphone, tablet, smartwatch, or smart glasses. The portable terminal 200 includes a processor for various processing tasks, input devices (touch panel, operation buttons, microphone, etc.), output devices (display, speaker, etc.), and a communication module. The communication module of the portable terminal 200 connects the portable terminal 200 to the communication network 500 via the wireless base station 400. Communication between the portable terminal 200 and the wireless base station 400 is based on known wireless communication standards (e.g., 3G, LTE, 4G, 5G, 6G, etc.).

[0044] Server 300 is located externally to vehicle 1 and includes a communication interface, storage device, memory, processor, etc. Furthermore, server 300 can also be composed of multiple computers. Server 300, for example, is operated by the manufacturer of vehicle 1 and is also referred to as a center.

[0045] Figure 2 This is a schematic structural diagram of a vehicle mode control system 100 including the vehicle mode control device according to an embodiment of the present invention. The vehicle mode control system 100 is mounted on a vehicle 1.

[0046] like Figure 2 As shown, the vehicle mode control system 100 includes a wide-area communication module 2, a short-range communication module 3, a brake operation detection sensor 4, a start switch 5, a human-machine interface (HMI) 6, an air conditioner 7, a power control unit (PCU) 8, a battery management system (BMS) 9, and an electronic control unit (ECU) 30. The wide-area communication module 2, short-range communication module 3, brake operation detection sensor 4, start switch 5, HMI 6, air conditioner 7, PCU 8, and BMS 9 are electrically connected to the ECU 30 via an in-vehicle network conforming to standards such as CAN (Controller Area Network) or Ethernet.

[0047] ECU30 performs various controls on vehicle 1. For example... Figure 2 As shown, the ECU 30 includes a communication interface 31, a memory 32, and a processor 33. The communication interface 31 and the memory 32 are connected to the processor 33 via signal lines. In this embodiment, only one ECU 30 is provided, but multiple ECUs may be provided for each function. Furthermore, the communication interface 31, the memory 32, and the processor 33 can be configured as a single integrated circuit, or they can be configured as separate circuits.

[0048] The communication interface 31 has an interface circuit for connecting the ECU 30 to the in-vehicle network. The ECU 30 connects to other in-vehicle devices via the communication interface 31. In this embodiment, the communication interface 31 transmits signals received from the wide area communication module 2, the short-range communication module 3, the brake operation detection sensor 4, the start switch 5, the HMI 6, the PCU 8, and the BMS 9 to the processor 33. Additionally, the communication interface 31 transmits signals output from the processor 33 to the wide area communication module 2, the short-range communication module 3, the HMI 6, the air conditioner 7, the PCU 8, and the BMS 9.

[0049] The memory 32 may be a volatile semiconductor memory (e.g., DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory), SRAM (Static Random Access Memory), etc.) or a non-volatile semiconductor memory (e.g., ROM (Read Only Memory), EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory), flash memory, etc.). The memory 32 stores temporary data, computer programs (control programs for ECU 30) used for various processes performed by the processor 33, ECU 30 setting data, log data, vehicle information, etc. The memory 32 is an example of a storage unit.

[0050] The processor 33 has one or more CPUs (Central Processing Units) and their peripheral circuitry. The processor 33 executes computer programs stored in the memory 32. Furthermore, the processor 33 may also have other arithmetic circuits such as logic units, numerical processing units, or graphics processing units. The following describes the vehicle-mounted components connected to the ECU 30.

[0051] Wide-area communication module 2 enables wide-area wireless communication between vehicle 1 and external devices (e.g., server 300). Wide-area communication module 2 connects vehicle 1 to communication network 500 via wireless base station 400. Communication between vehicle 1 and wireless base station 400 is based on known wireless communication standards (e.g., 3G, LTE (Long Term Evolution), 4G, 5G, 6G, etc.). Wide-area communication module 2 is, for example, a data communication module (DCM).

[0052] The short-range communication module 3 enables short-range wireless communication between vehicle 1 and the portable terminal 200 of the user of vehicle 1. The short-range communication module is a wireless module conforming to short-range communication standards such as BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) and NFC (Near Field Communication). The portable terminal 200 can function as a digital key for vehicle 1 by communicating directly with vehicle 1 via the short-range communication module 3. That is, the user of vehicle 1 can use the portable terminal 200 to control the door locks of vehicle 1.

[0053] A brake operation detection sensor 4 is installed on the brake pedal 41 of vehicle 1 to detect the user's operation of the brake pedal 41. For example, the brake operation detection sensor 4 can be configured as a pressure sensor to detect the pressure applied to the brake pedal 41, an angle sensor to detect the rotation angle or displacement of the brake pedal 41, or an electrical switch that generates an on / off signal based on the braking operation of the brake pedal 41. Alternatively, the brake operation detection sensor 4 can also be configured as a non-contact sensor such as an optical sensor or a magnetic sensor. The output of the brake operation detection sensor 4 is sent to the ECU 30.

[0054] Figure 3 This is a diagram that roughly shows the interior of vehicle 1 in front of the driver's and passenger's seats. Figure 3 The image shows vehicle 1 with a right-hand drive. (Example) Figure 3 As shown, the start switch 5 is located on the dashboard 22 below the windshield 21. For example, the start switch 5 is positioned near the driver's seat so that it can be operated by a user of the vehicle 1 (e.g., the driver), specifically near the steering wheel 23. Figure 3 In this example, the left side of the steering wheel 23 is used. The start switch 5 is, for example, a push-button switch. When the start switch 5 is pressed by the user of vehicle 1, it outputs a signal corresponding to the user's pressing operation. The output of the start switch 5 is sent to the ECU 30.

[0055] HMI6 is located inside the vehicle interior and facilitates the exchange of information between vehicle 1 and its user. HMI6 includes input devices for receiving input from the user of vehicle 1 and output devices for notifying the user of vehicle 1. Input devices include, for example, at least one of a touch panel, operation buttons, operation switches, and a microphone. Information input to HMI6 by the user of vehicle 1 is sent to ECU 30. Output devices include at least one of a display device (e.g., a monitor), warning lights, a speaker, a buzzer, and a vibration unit. HMI6's output devices notify the user of vehicle 1 of information corresponding to signals sent from ECU 30.

[0056] like Figure 3 As shown, in this embodiment, the HMI6 includes a multimedia display (hereinafter referred to as the "MM display") 61, an instrument display 62, a left-side operation display 63, and a right-side operation display 64. These displays are respectively arranged in the vehicle interior (specifically near the driver's seat) in a manner that can be visually confirmed by the user of the vehicle 1, and display various information to the user of the vehicle 1 based on signals sent from the ECU 30.

[0057] In this embodiment, the MM display 61 is mounted in the portion of the instrument panel 22 between the driver's seat and the passenger seat, i.e., the center console. In this case, the MM display 61 is also referred to as the central display. The MM display 61 is the largest display in the vehicle interior, displaying multimedia information, map information, and various settings for the vehicle 1. The MM display 61 is configured as a touch panel type liquid crystal display (LCD) or organic EL (electroluminescence) display that can be operated by the user of the vehicle 1. Therefore, the MM display 61 functions as both an input device and an output device.

[0058] The instrument display 62 is positioned in a location easily visible to the user of vehicle 1 during driving. Specifically, the instrument display 62 is mounted as an instrument panel on the dashboard 22 in front of the steering wheel 23, i.e., the dashboard 22 in front of the driver's seat. The instrument display 62 displays vehicle 1 status information, specifically, vehicle speed, the SOC (State of Charge) of the main battery (described later), warning lights, and other information necessary for driving vehicle 1. The instrument display 62 functions as an output device, for example, configured as an LCD or OLED display. Furthermore, the instrument display 62 can be configured as a user-operable touch panel LCD or OLED display, and can also function as both an input and output device.

[0059] The left-side operation display 63 is positioned so that it is easily operated by the left hand of the user of vehicle 1 while driving, and the right-side operation display 64 is positioned so that it is easily operated by the right hand of the user of vehicle 1 while driving. The left-side operation display 63 and the right-side operation display 64 are positioned on both sides of the instrument display 62, symmetrically positioned with respect to the line that divides the steering wheel 23 into left and right parts.

[0060] The left-side operation display 63 is positioned adjacent to the instrument cluster display 62 on the left side of the steering wheel 23. In this embodiment, the left-side operation display 63 displays multimedia operation screens (e.g., audio setting screens). The left-side operation display 63 is configured as a touch panel-type LCD or OLED display operable by the user of the vehicle 1. Therefore, the left-side operation display 63 functions as both an input and output device.

[0061] The right-side operation display 64 is positioned adjacent to the instrument cluster display 62 on the right side of the steering wheel 23. In this embodiment, the right-side operation display 64 displays the operation screen of driver assistance functions (e.g., the setting screen for Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)). The right-side operation display 64 is configured as a touch panel-type LCD or OLED display operable by the user of the vehicle 1. Therefore, the right-side operation display 64 functions as both an input and output device.

[0062] In this embodiment, the left operation display 63 is connected to the left end of the instrument display 62, and the right operation display 64 is connected to the right end of the instrument display 62. That is, the left operation display 63 and the right operation display 64 are integrally formed with the instrument display 62. However, the left operation display 63 and the right operation display 64 may also be separate from the instrument display 62.

[0063] The air conditioner (hereinafter referred to as "air conditioner") 7 includes an electric compressor and provides cooling and heating functions. When providing cooling function, the air conditioner 7 lowers the temperature inside the vehicle by using a heat exchange process of refrigerant; when providing heating function, it raises the temperature inside the vehicle by using heat pump technology.

[0064] like Figure 2 As shown, PCU8 and BMS9 are electrically connected and can communicate with each other using communication protocols such as CAN. (Refer to...) Figure 4 The structure and function of PCU8 and BMS9 are explained.

[0065] Figure 4 This is a diagram that roughly represents the flow of electricity between the electrical components of vehicle 1. (Example) Figure 4 As shown, vehicle 1 also includes an electric motor 10, a reducer 11, an axle 12, wheels 13, a main battery 14, a charging port 15, a charger 16, an auxiliary battery 17, auxiliary equipment 18, an auxiliary relay 19, and a main relay 20.

[0066] In this embodiment, vehicle 1 is a so-called battery electric vehicle (BEV), where only the electric motor 10 functions as the drive unit. The electric motor 10 is connected to a reduction gear 11, and the output of the electric motor 10 is supplied to the reduction gear 11. The output of the electric motor 10 supplied to the reduction gear 11 is transmitted to the wheels 13 via the axle 12, driving the wheels 13. Therefore, the electric motor 10 is able to output the power for driving vehicle 1.

[0067] The main battery 14 is a rechargeable secondary battery, such as a lithium-ion battery, nickel-metal hydride battery, all-solid-state battery, or sodium-ion battery. The main battery 14 is a high-voltage battery that outputs high-voltage (e.g., 200V–800V) DC power. The main battery 14 is charged by power supplied from an external power source such as a household power supply or a charging station, or by regenerative power generated when the vehicle 1 decelerates. The charging port 15 is configured to receive power from an external power source, and the charger 16 converts the power supplied from the external power source to the charging port 15 into power that can be supplied to the main battery 14. The main battery 14 is also referred to as a drive battery or a high-voltage battery.

[0068] When the electric motor 10 outputs power for driving, the power stored in the main battery 14 is supplied to the electric motor 10 via the PCU8. That is, the main battery 14 functions as the drive source of the vehicle 1. In addition, the main battery 14 is connected to the air conditioner 7, and the electric compressor of the air conditioner 7 operates by means of the high-voltage power supplied from the main battery 14.

[0069] The BMS9 monitors and manages the main battery 14, including sensor modules and control circuitry. The sensor modules include: a voltage sensor to detect the voltage of each cell in the main battery 14; a current sensor to detect the charging and discharging current of the main battery 14; and a temperature sensor to detect the temperature of the main battery 14. The control circuitry performs state estimation and charging / discharging control of the main battery 14. For example, the control circuitry calculates the SOC (State of Charge), SOH (State of Health), and SOP (State of Power) of the main battery 14 based on the output of the sensor modules.

[0070] Auxiliary battery 17 is a rechargeable secondary battery, such as a lead-acid battery or a lithium-ion battery. Auxiliary battery 17 is a low-voltage battery that outputs low-voltage (e.g., 12V) DC power. That is, auxiliary battery 17 outputs power at a voltage lower than that of main battery 14. Auxiliary battery 17 is charged using power supplied from main battery 14. Auxiliary battery 17 is also referred to as a low-voltage battery.

[0071] Auxiliary battery 17 is connected to auxiliary unit 18, which operates by receiving low-voltage power from auxiliary battery 17. Auxiliary unit 18 includes communication modules such as wide-area communication module 2 and short-range communication module 3, sensor types such as brake operation detection sensor 4, start switch 5, HMI 6, lighting devices (headlights, taillights, etc.), power windows, etc.

[0072] An auxiliary relay 19 is provided between the auxiliary battery 17 and the auxiliary unit 18. That is, the auxiliary unit 18 is connected to the auxiliary battery 17 via the auxiliary relay 19. When the auxiliary relay 19 is closed, the auxiliary battery 17 and the auxiliary unit 18 are energized. As a result, power can be supplied from the auxiliary battery 17 to the auxiliary unit 18.

[0073] PCU8 performs power control of vehicle 1, including a converter, DC-DC converter, boost converter, and control circuitry. The converter is connected to the main battery 14 and the electric motor 10, with the main battery 14 supplying power to the electric motor 10 via the converter. When supplying power from the main battery 14 to the electric motor 10, the converter converts the DC power supplied from the main battery 14 into AC power. Furthermore, the converter controls the speed and output torque of the electric motor 10 by adjusting the voltage and frequency of the AC power supplied to the electric motor 10. Conversely, when regenerated power is supplied from the electric motor 10 to the main battery 14, the converter converts the AC power supplied from the electric motor 10 into DC power.

[0074] The DC-DC converter is connected to the main battery 14 and the auxiliary battery 17. The main battery 14 supplies power to the auxiliary battery 17 via the DC-DC converter. When supplying power from the main battery 14 to the auxiliary battery 17, the DC-DC converter converts high-voltage (e.g., 200V–800V) power to low-voltage (e.g., 12V) power. A boost converter boosts the output of the main battery 14 as needed. The control circuit performs converter control, regenerative braking control, etc.

[0075] A main relay 20 is provided between the main battery 14 and the PCU8. That is, the PCU8 is connected to the main battery 14 via the main relay 20. When the main relay 20 is closed, the main battery 14 and the PCU8 are energized. As a result, power can be supplied from the main battery 14 to the PCU8. When power is supplied from the main battery 14 to the PCU8, the DC-DC converter of the PCU8 operates, enabling power to be supplied from the main battery 14 to the auxiliary battery 17 via the PCU8. That is, the auxiliary battery 17 can be charged based on the output power of the main battery 14.

[0076] Figure 5 This is a diagram showing the transitions in the power supply state within vehicle 1. (Example) Figure 5 As shown, the power state of vehicle 1 includes three states: power off, in the vehicle, and Ready on. Furthermore, as will be explained below, the power state of "in the vehicle" does not necessarily require the user of vehicle 1 (hereinafter referred to as "user") to be present inside the vehicle.

[0077] When the power supply is off, the low-voltage power supply, high-voltage power supply, and drive force are all disconnected. When the low-voltage power supply is off, auxiliary relay 19 disconnects, cutting off the power supply between auxiliary battery 17 and auxiliary motor 18. When the high-voltage power supply is off, main relay 20 disconnects, cutting off the power supply between main battery 14 and PCU8. When the drive force is off, the initialization actions of the drive system performed by PCU8 (system self-diagnosis, converter initialization, etc.) are not completed, and the power supply from main battery 14 to motor 10 has not started.

[0078] When the first trigger occurs while the power is off, the power state changes from off to in-vehicle. In this embodiment, the first trigger is the opening of the vehicle 1 door. Therefore, when a user unlocks the vehicle 1 door and opens the vehicle 1 door to enter the vehicle 1, the power state of the vehicle 1 changes from off to in-vehicle.

[0079] When the power supply is in operation, both the low-voltage and high-voltage power supplies are switched on, while the driving force remains switched off. When the low-voltage power supply is switched on, i.e., when the low-voltage power supply is activated, the ECU 30 uses the output power of the auxiliary battery 17 to close the auxiliary relay 19. As a result, power supply from the auxiliary battery 17 to the auxiliary unit 18 begins.

[0080] When the high-voltage power supply is turned on, i.e., when the high-voltage power supply is activated, the BMS9 performs an initialization operation, including confirming the status of the main battery 14. After the initialization operation is completed, the main relay 20 is closed using the output power of the auxiliary battery 17. As a result, power supply from the main battery 14 to the PCU8 begins.

[0081] In addition, such as Figure 4 As shown, since the air conditioner 7 is directly connected to the main unit battery 14, power supply from the main unit battery 14 to the air conditioner 7 begins when the high-voltage power is turned on. Furthermore, if the user sets the air conditioner 7 to the off state, power supply from the main unit battery 14 to the air conditioner 7 will stop even when the high-voltage power is turned on.

[0082] When the second trigger occurs while the vehicle is in a powered state (in a passenger position), the power state changes from "in a passenger position" to "Readyon." In this embodiment, the second trigger is the user's action to start the vehicle 1, and two options are provided for the start operation. The first option is a composite operation combining the pressing of the brake pedal 41 and the pressing of the start switch 5, and the second option is a single operation of pressing the brake pedal 41. The user selects either the first option or the second option via the HMI 6 (e.g., MM display 61) as the start operation for starting the vehicle 1. In this embodiment, in the initial state of the vehicle 1 (e.g., the vehicle 1 at the time of manufacture), the start operation is set to the first option.

[0083] When the first option is set as the start operation, if the user performs a combined operation of the first option, the power status changes from "in motion" to "Ready on". On the other hand, when the second option is set as the start operation, if the user performs a single operation of the second option, the power status changes from "in motion" to "Ready on". Furthermore, as the start operation of vehicle 1, only one operation method (e.g., the first option or the second option) may be set.

[0084] When the power state is Ready on, both the low-voltage and high-voltage power supplies are connected, and the drive force is in standby mode. Therefore, in order to change the power state of vehicle 1 to Ready on, PCU8 performs the drive system initialization action and puts the drive force into standby mode. When the drive force is in standby mode, the drive system initialization action performed by PCU8 is completed, but the power supply from the main battery 14 to the motor 10 has not yet started. In this state, if the user depresses the brake pedal 41 and sets the vehicle 1's shift gear to drive (D) mode or reverse (R) mode, the drive force is activated, and the power supply from the main battery 14 to the motor 10 begins.

[0085] On the other hand, if the user sets the gear shift of vehicle 1 to parking (P) mode after the vehicle 1 has been driven, the driving force changes from on to standby, and the power supply from the main battery 14 to the motor 10 stops. In this state, if a third trigger occurs, the driving force changes from standby to off, and the power state changes from Ready on to in operation. That is, when the third trigger occurs while the power state is Ready on, the power state changes from Ready on to in operation. In this embodiment, the third trigger is triggered by the user pressing the start switch 5. Therefore, when the user presses the start switch 5 after setting the gear shift of vehicle 1 to parking mode, the power state changes from Ready on to in operation.

[0086] When the fourth trigger occurs while the vehicle is in a powered state (in the vehicle), the power state changes from "in the vehicle" to "power off". In this embodiment, the fourth trigger is when the door of vehicle 1 is locked from the outside of vehicle 1, or when vehicle 1 is in an inactive state for more than a threshold time. Therefore, when a user locks the door of vehicle 1 after exiting vehicle 1, the power state changes from "in the vehicle" to "power off". Additionally, the power state also changes from "in the vehicle" to "power off" when vehicle 1 is left unlocked, or when a user is dozing off in a parked vehicle. Furthermore, the threshold time (e.g., 30 to 80 minutes) when the key to vehicle 1 is inside vehicle 1 and the threshold time (e.g., 3 to 10 minutes) when the key to vehicle 1 is outside vehicle 1 can also be different.

[0087] When the vehicle 1 is powered off, the user cannot use the HMI 6 and air conditioning 7 inside the vehicle. On the other hand, when the vehicle is powered on, the power consumption for driving the vehicle 1 can be avoided, and the HMI 6 and air conditioning 7 can be used. Therefore, it is considered that in several scenarios where the vehicle 1 is parked, the user would prefer to keep the power status fixed as if the vehicle is in motion. Examples of such scenarios include the user watching or listening to desired content on the MM display 61, the user using the vehicle 1 as a place of accommodation, and the user camping outside the vehicle 1. In these scenarios, it is preferable to maintain the air conditioning 7 while keeping the vehicle 1 powered on to maintain a comfortable temperature inside the vehicle.

[0088] Therefore, in this embodiment, as a mode of vehicle 1 selectable by the user, a state-maintaining mode is prepared to keep power supplied to the air conditioning and displays inside the vehicle 1, but not to the drive system of the vehicle 1. This allows the user to enjoy the aforementioned scenario in a comfortable cabin environment, improving the usability of vehicle 1.

[0089] In this embodiment, the power state is set to a vehicle state where the vehicle is in motion, which is equivalent to supplying power to the air conditioning and displays in the vehicle 1, but not to the drive system of the vehicle 1. That is, in the state holding mode, the power state is fixed as in motion, and even if the fourth trigger occurs, the power state does not change from in motion to power off. In other words, in the state holding mode, the transition of the power state from in motion to power off is invalid. Furthermore, the displays of the HMI6 (in this embodiment, MM display 61, instrument display 62, left-side operation display 63, and right-side operation display 64) are examples of displays in the vehicle 1.

[0090] In this embodiment, ECU30 functions as a vehicle mode control device that controls the mode of vehicle 1. Figure 6This is a functional block diagram of processor 33 in ECU30. (Example) Figure 6 As shown, the processor 33 includes a mode setting unit 34 and a threshold setting unit 35. The mode setting unit 34 and the threshold setting unit 35 are functional modules implemented by the processor 33 of the ECU 30 executing a computer program stored in the memory 32 of the ECU 30. Furthermore, these functional modules can also be implemented using dedicated arithmetic circuits provided in the processor 33. The ECU 30 is an example of a vehicle mode control device.

[0091] The mode setting unit 34 sets the mode of vehicle 1. In particular, in this embodiment, the mode setting unit 34 sets the mode of vehicle 1 to a state-holding mode based on the user's instruction, keeping the power state of vehicle 1 set to the state of being in a vehicle. For example, the user instructs the mode of vehicle 1 via HMI6. When the user requests the start of the state-holding mode, the mode setting unit 34 sets the mode of vehicle 1 to the state-holding mode.

[0092] On the other hand, the mode setting unit 34 terminates the state holding mode when a specified condition is met in the state holding mode. In this embodiment, the specified conditions include the following first to fifth termination conditions, and the mode setting unit 34 terminates the state holding mode when any one of the first to fifth termination conditions is met.

[0093] The first termination condition is that a parameter related to the remaining charge level of the main battery 14 decreases to a predetermined threshold. In this embodiment, the parameter related to the remaining charge level of the main battery 14 is the State of Charge (SOC) of the main battery 14. In this case, the mode setting unit 34 terminates the state holding mode when the SOC of the main battery 14 calculated by the BMS9 decreases to the predetermined threshold. By setting the first termination condition as the termination condition for the state holding mode, it is possible to suppress the vehicle 1 from running out of power due to the continuous implementation of the state holding mode.

[0094] The second termination condition is the detection of an anomaly in vehicle 1. In this case, the mode setting unit 34 terminates the state holding mode when an anomaly is detected in vehicle 1. Anomalies in vehicle 1 include, for example, anomalies detected by the vehicle 1's self-diagnosis, communication interruptions, etc. By setting the second termination condition as the termination condition for the state holding mode, it is possible to prevent the continuation of the state holding mode in an abnormal state of vehicle 1.

[0095] The third termination condition is that the user requests the end of the state-holding mode via HMI6. In this case, the mode setting unit 34 terminates the state-holding mode when the user requests its termination via HMI6. For example, the user requests the end of the state-holding mode by operating the MM display 61 of the HMI6 (e.g., selecting the end button displayed on the MM display 61). Alternatively, the third termination condition can also be that the user requests the end of the state-holding mode via the portable terminal 200. In this case, the termination request notification is sent from the portable terminal 200 to the vehicle 1 via the server 300.

[0096] The fourth termination condition is that the user presses the start switch 5. In this case, the mode setting unit 34 terminates the state holding mode when the user presses the start switch 5. Furthermore, to avoid unwanted mode termination due to accidental operation of the start switch 5, the fourth termination condition can also be that the user presses the start switch 5 and the user agrees to terminate the state holding mode. In this case, the user agrees to terminate the state holding mode via the HMI 6. As a specific example, when the start switch 5 is pressed, the mode setting unit 34 displays a confirmation screen on the HMI 6 (e.g., MM display 61) to confirm whether the state holding mode can be terminated, and the user selects whether to terminate via the HMI 6. Figure 7 This is an example of a confirmation screen indicating whether the status hold mode can be ended.

[0097] The fifth termination condition is that the user performs a start operation on vehicle 1. In this case, the mode setting unit 34 terminates the state holding mode when the user performs the start operation. When the first option is set to start operation, the user performs both pressing the brake pedal 41 and pressing the start switch 5; when the second option is set to start operation, the user only presses the brake pedal 41.

[0098] Furthermore, when the second option is set to start operation, to avoid unwanted mode termination due to accidental operation of the brake pedal 41, the fifth termination condition can also be that the user presses the brake pedal 41 and the user agrees to the change of power state. In this case, the user agrees to the change of power state from being in the vehicle to being ready on via the HMI6. As a specific example, when the brake pedal 41 is pressed, the mode setting unit 34 displays a confirmation screen on the HMI6 (e.g., MM display 61) to confirm whether the power state can be changed, and the user selects whether the power state can be changed via the HMI6. Figure 8 This is an example of a confirmation screen that asks whether the power status can be changed.

[0099] As described above, the first termination condition is established when a parameter related to the remaining charge of the main unit battery 14 (in this embodiment, the SOC of the main unit battery 14) decreases to a predetermined threshold. That is, the mode setting unit 34 terminates the state holding mode when the parameter related to the remaining charge of the main unit battery 14 decreases to the threshold. However, if the threshold is set to a predetermined fixed value, the state holding mode may terminate against the user's wishes.

[0100] Therefore, in this embodiment, the threshold setting unit 35 sets a threshold value for a parameter related to the remaining charge capacity of the host battery 14 based on user input. That is, the threshold setting unit 35 sets the threshold value of the parameter to the value input by the user. This prevents the state-holding mode from ending against the user's will. For example, the threshold setting unit 35 sets the threshold value of the parameter based on user input to the HMI6.

[0101] The following is for reference Figure 9 The process of handling the control that initiates the state-maintaining mode is explained. Figure 9 This is a flowchart illustrating the control routine for starting the mode processing in the first embodiment of the present invention. This control routine is repeatedly executed by the processor 33 of the ECU 30 according to a computer program stored in the memory 32 of the ECU 30.

[0102] First, in step S101, the threshold setting unit 35 of the processor 33 determines whether the user has requested the setting of the state holding mode. For example, when the normal screen displaying various information of the vehicle 1 is displayed on the HMI 6 (e.g., MM display 61), if the user selects an item in the state holding mode on the normal screen, the threshold setting unit 35 determines that the setting of the state holding mode has been requested.

[0103] If it is determined in step S101 that no request has been made to set the state maintenance mode, this control routine proceeds to step S102. In this case, the display of HMI6 is maintained, and in step S102, the threshold setting unit 35 displays the normal screen on HMI6. After step S102, this control routine ends.

[0104] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S101 that a request has been made to set the state holding mode, this control routine proceeds to step S103. In step S103, the threshold setting unit 35 displays the state holding mode setting screen on the HMI6 (e.g., MM display 61).

[0105] Figure 10 This is an example of a screen showing the settings for the state-holding mode. Figure 10In the example, the setting screen for the state hold mode includes a parameter operation unit 611 for inputting a threshold, a start button 612 for starting the state hold mode, and a return button 613 for returning to the normal screen.

[0106] The parameter operation unit 611 includes the current value of a parameter (in this embodiment, the SOC of the host battery 14) and a threshold display, for example, in the form of a slider. In this case, the user inputs a threshold to the HMI 6 by changing the position of the threshold on the slider in the parameter operation unit 611. In this embodiment, the threshold setting unit 35 displays the value that was last set as the threshold, as the initial value of the threshold in the parameter operation unit 611. This saves users who do not want to change the threshold from the last setting value the effort of resetting the threshold.

[0107] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the threshold setting unit 35 displays the parameter operation unit 611 on the HMI 6 before starting the state holding mode. This prevents the state holding mode from starting when the threshold is set to a value the user does not want (e.g., the initial value of the threshold). In particular, in this embodiment, as... Figure 10 As shown, the threshold setting unit 35 displays the parameter operation unit 611 and the start button 612 for the status hold mode on the HMI 6. This makes it easy for the user to set the threshold when they want to start the status hold mode.

[0108] Following step S103, in step S104, the threshold setting unit 35 determines whether a user has requested a transition to the normal screen. For example, if the user selects the return button 613, the threshold setting unit 35 determines that a transition to the normal screen has been requested. If it is determined that no transition to the normal screen has been requested, the control routine proceeds to step S105.

[0109] In step S105, the threshold setting unit 35 determines whether a user has requested a change to the threshold. For example, if the threshold setting unit 35 inputs an operation to change the threshold to the HMI 6, such as when the position of the threshold on the slider in the parameter operation unit 611 of the setting screen in the status holding mode is changed, it determines that a threshold change has been requested. If it is determined that a threshold change has been requested, this control routine proceeds to step S106.

[0110] In step S106, the threshold setting unit 35 changes the threshold based on input from the user. Assuming the user inputs a value higher than the current value of the parameter as the threshold, the threshold setting unit 35 prevents the start of the state-holding mode. In this case, for example, the threshold setting unit 35 prevents the start of the state-holding mode by graying out the start button 612 on the setting screen. Alternatively, the threshold setting unit 35 can also prevent the start of the state-holding mode by not displaying the start button 612.

[0111] After step S106, this control routine proceeds to step S107. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S105 that no change to the threshold has been requested, this control routine skips step S106 and proceeds to step S107.

[0112] In step S107, the mode setting unit 34 of the processor 33 determines whether the user has requested the start of the state holding mode. For example, when the user selects the start button 612 on the setting screen, the mode setting unit 34 determines that the start of the state holding mode has been requested. If it is determined that the start of the state holding mode has not been requested, the control routine returns to step S103. On the other hand, if it is determined that the start of the state holding mode has been requested, the control routine proceeds to step S108.

[0113] In step S108, the mode setting unit 34 executes the state holding mode, changing the mode of vehicle 1 from the normal mode to the state holding mode. Furthermore, in the normal mode, refer to... Figure 5 The power state of vehicle 1 is set according to the power state transitions described above. For example, if the fourth trigger occurs while the power state is "in motion", the power state changes from "in motion" to "power off". On the other hand, in the state holding mode, even if the fourth trigger occurs, the power state does not change from "in motion" to "power off".

[0114] Next, in step S109, the threshold setting unit 35 displays the execution screen of the state holding mode on the HMI6. That is, the screen displayed on the HMI6 by the threshold setting unit 35 changes from the state holding mode setting screen to the state holding mode execution screen. The threshold setting unit 35 displays the state holding mode setting screen on the HMI6 before starting the state holding mode, and displays the state holding mode execution screen on the HMI6 when executing the state holding mode.

[0115] Figure 11 This is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen displaying the state-preserving mode. Figure 11 In the example, the execution screen of the state holding mode includes a parameter operation unit 611 for inputting a threshold, an end button 614 for ending the state holding mode, and a return button 613 for returning to the normal screen.

[0116] As described above, the parameter operation unit 611 includes the display of the current value of the parameter and the threshold. Therefore, when the state hold mode is executed, the threshold setting unit 35 displays the current value of the parameter and the threshold on the HMI 6. As a result, the user can predict the possible duration of the state hold mode.

[0117] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the threshold setting unit 35 prohibits values ​​above the current value of the input parameter from being used as thresholds during the execution of the state holding mode. This prevents the state holding mode from immediately ending due to user error. For example, if the threshold setting unit 35 performs an operation to change the threshold to a value above the current value in the parameter operation unit 611 of the execution screen, this operation is invalidated. In addition, the threshold setting unit 35 can also notify the user of a warning via the HMI 6 in this case.

[0118] When the return button 613 is selected on the execution screen of the status hold mode, the mode setting unit 34 changes the display of HMI6 from the status hold mode execution screen to the normal screen. Alternatively, when HMI6 is displaying the normal screen during status hold mode execution, the mode setting unit 34 can also display an icon indicating the execution of status hold mode on the normal screen of HMI6. Therefore, even if user operations are performed on the normal screen, the user can easily identify that status hold mode is being executed. After step S109, this control routine ends.

[0119] Furthermore, if it is determined in step S104 that a request has been made to switch to a normal screen, this control routine proceeds to step S102. In step S102, the threshold setting unit 35 changes the display of HMI6 from the status holding mode setting screen to the normal screen, and displays the normal screen on HMI6. After step S102, this control routine ends.

[0120] Furthermore, the parameter related to the remaining charge capacity of the main battery 14 can also be the driving range of the vehicle 1. In this case, the current value of the parameter, i.e., the current value of the driving range of the vehicle 1, is calculated, for example, based on the SOC of the main battery 14 calculated by the BMS9 and the energy consumption of the vehicle 1 calculated based on the driving history of the vehicle 1. Figure 12 This example shows a setting screen for the state-holding mode when the parameter is the drivable distance of vehicle 1. Furthermore, in this modified example, Figure 11 The execution screen for the state preservation mode also changes accordingly.

[0121] Additionally, the threshold setting unit 35 can also display an estimated value of the duration of the state-holding mode on the HMI6. This allows the user to set a threshold considering the duration. For example, the threshold setting unit 35 calculates the estimated duration of the state-holding mode based on the current value of the parameter and the parameter's threshold value. At this time, the power consumption of vehicle 1 in the state-holding mode is calculated using the vehicle 1's current power consumption, the average power consumption in past state-holding modes, a predetermined fixed value, etc. Figure 13 An example of a setting screen showing the state-holding mode under conditions of duration is shown. Furthermore, in this variant example, Figure 11 The execution screen of the state preservation mode and Figure 12 The settings screen for the status hold mode has also changed accordingly.

[0122] <Second Implementation Method>

[0123] The structure and control of the vehicle mode control device according to the second embodiment are basically the same as those of the vehicle mode control device according to the first embodiment, except for the points described below. Therefore, the second embodiment of the present invention will be described below focusing on the parts that differ from the first embodiment.

[0124] As described above, the first termination condition is triggered by a decrease in the State of Charge (SOC) of the main battery 14, and the second termination condition is triggered by an abnormality in the vehicle 1. That is, both the first and second termination conditions are triggered by factors other than the user's termination operation. When the first termination condition is triggered, to prevent a further decrease in the SOC of the main battery 14, it is preferable to disconnect the power supply to the vehicle 1 after the state-holding mode ends. Similarly, when the second termination condition is triggered, to prevent the occurrence of an abnormal state, it is preferable to disconnect the power supply to the vehicle 1 after the state-holding mode ends.

[0125] When the power state changes from "in motion" to "power off," from the viewpoint of power system protection, it is preferable to maintain the "in motion" state for a few minutes before disconnecting the power to vehicle 1. However, if the display inside vehicle 1 is maintained after the first or second termination condition is met and the state holding mode ends, it may seem strange to the user.

[0126] Therefore, in the second embodiment, when the state holding mode ends due to the fulfillment of the first or second end condition, the mode setting unit 34 temporarily sets the mode of the vehicle 1 to a transfer mode before disconnecting the power supply to the vehicle 1. In the transfer mode, power is supplied to the display inside the vehicle 1 and the display is turned off. This avoids the user feeling confused about the state of the vehicle 1 after the state holding mode ends.

[0127] In the transfer mode, the power supply state in vehicle 1 is set to the state of being in the vehicle. The mode setting unit 34 achieves the state of supplying power to the display and turning off the display by setting the brightness of the backlight of the display in vehicle 1 (the display of HMI6 in this embodiment) to the minimum or zero.

[0128] The following is for reference Figure 14 The process of handling the execution of control that terminates the state-maintaining mode is explained. Figure 14This is a flowchart illustrating the control routine for mode termination processing in the second embodiment of the present invention. This control routine is repeatedly executed by the processor 33 of the ECU 30 according to a computer program stored in the memory 32 of the ECU 30.

[0129] First, in step S201, the mode setting unit 34 of the processor 33 determines whether the mode of the vehicle 1 is set to the state holding mode. If it is determined that the mode of the vehicle 1 is not set to the state holding mode, this control routine ends. On the other hand, if it is determined that the mode of the vehicle 1 is set to the state holding mode, this control routine proceeds to step S202.

[0130] In step S202, the threshold setting unit 35 of the processor 33 determines whether a user has requested a change to the threshold. For example, if the threshold setting unit 35 inputs an operation to change the threshold to the HMI 6, such as when the position of the threshold on the slider in the parameter operation unit 611 of the execution screen in state holding mode is changed, it determines that a threshold change has been requested. If it is determined that a threshold change has been requested, the control routine proceeds to step S203.

[0131] In step S203, the threshold setting unit 35 changes the threshold based on input from the user. This operation is ineffective if the user sets a value higher than the current SOC value as the threshold.

[0132] After step S203, this control routine proceeds to step S204. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S202 that no change to the threshold has been requested, this control routine skips step S203 and proceeds to step S204.

[0133] In step S204, the mode setting unit 34 determines whether the specified conditions are met. In this embodiment, the mode setting unit 34 determines whether any one of the first to fifth end conditions is met. If all the conditions that are determined to be the first to fifth end conditions are not met, the control routine ends. On the other hand, if any one of the first to fifth end conditions is determined to be met, the control routine proceeds to step S205.

[0134] In step S205, the mode setting unit 34 determines whether the specified condition is a first end condition or a second end condition. If the specified condition is determined to be a first end condition or a second end condition, that is, if the first end condition or the second end condition is met, the control routine proceeds to step S206.

[0135] In step S206, the mode setting unit 34 ends the state holding mode and changes the mode of vehicle 1 from the state holding mode to the transfer mode. The mode setting unit 34 maintains the transfer mode for a predetermined time (e.g., 3 to 5 minutes), and then disconnects the power supply to vehicle 1 after the transfer mode ends. In the transfer mode, the mode setting unit 34 supplies power to the display in vehicle 1 and turns off the display. After step S206, this control routine ends.

[0136] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S205 that the specified condition is not the first or second termination condition, that is, if the third, fourth or fifth termination condition is met, this control routine proceeds to step S207.

[0137] In step S207, the mode setting unit 34 ends the state holding mode and changes the mode of vehicle 1 from the state holding mode to the normal mode. In the normal mode, refer to Figure 5 The power state of vehicle 1 is set according to the power state transition described above. For example, if the fourth trigger occurs while the power state is "in the vehicle", the power state changes from "in the vehicle" to "power off".

[0138] Next, in step S208, the mode setting unit 34 determines whether the specified condition is the fifth end condition. If the specified condition is determined to be the fifth end condition, that is, if the fifth end condition is met, the control routine proceeds to step S209.

[0139] In step S209, a startup operation is performed as an operation to end the state holding mode, therefore the mode setting unit 34 changes the power state from "in motion" to "Ready on". After step S209, this control routine ends.

[0140] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S208 that the specified condition is not the fifth termination condition, that is, if it is determined that the state holding mode ends due to the fulfillment of the third or fourth termination condition, this control routine ends.

[0141] <Other Implementation Methods>

[0142] The preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described above, but the present invention is not limited to these embodiments, and various modifications and alterations can be made within the scope of the claims. For example, the air conditioner 7 may also be included in the auxiliary unit 18, and power is supplied from the auxiliary unit battery 17.

[0143] Alternatively, vehicle 1 can also be a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) equipped with an electric motor and an engine as drive units. Furthermore, vehicle 1 can also be an autonomous vehicle that automatically performs at least a portion of its acceleration, braking, and steering.

[0144] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the description assumes that the screen related to the status holding mode is displayed on the MM display 61 in vehicle 1, but this screen can also be displayed on other displays in vehicle 1 (e.g., instrument display 62, left-side operation display 63, right-side operation display 64, or a head-up display (HUD, not shown). Alternatively, at least one of the left-side operation display 63 and the right-side operation display 64 may be omitted from vehicle 1.

[0145] Alternatively, the first to fourth triggers that change the power state of vehicle 1 can be other conditions. For example, the first trigger that changes the power state of vehicle 1 from power off to in-vehicle state could be pressing the start switch 5. Furthermore, at least one of the second to fifth termination conditions can be omitted.

[0146] Alternatively, the threshold setting unit 35 can also set the threshold of the parameter based on user input to the portable terminal 200. In this case, a setting screen or execution screen of the state holding mode is displayed on the portable terminal 200, and the user inputs the operation of changing the threshold on the setting screen or execution screen to the portable terminal 200. In this case, the threshold setting unit 35 communicates with the portable terminal 200 via the server 300 using the wide area communication module 2. Furthermore, the threshold setting unit 35 can also communicate directly with the portable terminal 200 using the short-range communication module 3.

[0147] Alternatively, a server 300 or similar device located outside the vehicle 1 can also function as a vehicle mode control device. In this case, the vehicle 1 sends the required information to the server 300, and the ECU 30 of the vehicle 1 performs vehicle control related to the mode setting of the vehicle 1 according to the instructions from the server 300.

[0148] Furthermore, the computer program that enables the computer to perform the functions of the processor 33 of the ECU 30 or the processor of the server can also be provided as a recording medium that can be read by a computer, or as a computer program product. The recording medium that can be read by a computer is, for example, a magnetic recording medium, an optical recording medium, or a semiconductor memory.

[0149] Marker description

[0150] 1 vehicle; 6HMI; 7 air conditioners; 14. Main unit battery; 30. Electronic Control Unit (ECU); 33 processors; 34. Mode Setting Department; 35 Threshold setting section.

Claims

1. A vehicle mode control device for controlling the vehicle mode, wherein, The vehicle mode control device includes: The mode setting unit sets the vehicle's mode to a state holding mode based on the user's instruction. In this state holding mode, the vehicle maintains a state in which it supplies power to the vehicle's air conditioner and the in-vehicle display but not to the vehicle's drive system. as well as The threshold setting unit sets a threshold value for a parameter related to the remaining charge capacity of the vehicle's main battery based on input from the user. When the parameter decreases to the threshold, the mode setting unit terminates the state holding mode.

2. The vehicle mode control device according to claim 1, wherein, The parameter is the state of charge (SOC) of the host battery.

3. The vehicle mode control device according to claim 1, wherein, The parameter is the vehicle's drivable distance.

4. The vehicle mode control device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, Before the state holding mode begins, the threshold setting unit displays the parameter operation unit for inputting the threshold on the display.

5. The vehicle mode control device according to claim 4, wherein, The threshold setting unit displays the parameter operation unit and the start button of the state holding mode together on the display.

6. The vehicle mode control device according to claim 4 or 5, wherein, The threshold setting unit displays the value that was previously set as the threshold as the initial value of the threshold in the parameter operation unit.

7. The vehicle mode control device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein, During the execution of the state-maintaining mode, the threshold setting unit prohibits inputting values ​​greater than the current value of the parameter as the threshold.

8. The vehicle mode control device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein, The threshold setting unit calculates an estimated value for the duration of the state holding mode based on the current value of the parameter and the threshold, and displays the estimated value on the display.

9. The vehicle mode control device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein, When the state holding mode ends, the mode setting unit temporarily sets the vehicle's mode to a transfer mode before disconnecting the vehicle's power supply. In the transfer mode, power is supplied to the display and the display is turned off.

10. The vehicle mode control device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein, When the state holding mode is executed, the threshold setting unit displays the current value of the parameter and the threshold on the display.

11. A vehicle mode control method, executed by a computer, wherein, The vehicle mode control method includes: Based on the user's instructions, the vehicle's mode is set to a state-holding mode, in which the vehicle maintains a state in which power is supplied to the vehicle's air conditioner and the in-vehicle display but not to the vehicle's drive system. Based on input from the user, a threshold value for a parameter related to the remaining charge capacity of the vehicle's main battery is set; and When the parameter decreases to the threshold, the state hold mode ends.

12. A computer program product comprising a computer program that causes a computer to perform: Based on the user's instructions, the vehicle's mode is set to a state-holding mode, which maintains a vehicle state that supplies power to the vehicle's air conditioner and in-vehicle displays but not to the vehicle's drive system. Based on the input provided by the user, a threshold value for a parameter related to the remaining charge capacity of the vehicle's main battery is set. as well as When the parameter decreases to the threshold, the state hold mode ends.

Images