Driving device for a wound-field rotary electric machine

Abstract

Provided is a driving device for a wound-field rotary electric machine, which can perform various discharge controls corresponding to various states. A driving device for a wound-field rotary electric machine includes a control device that controls a circuit portion including a smoothing capacitor, a power conversion circuit portion, and a power supply circuit portion electrically connected to both ends of the smoothing capacitor in parallel with the power conversion circuit portion and supplying power to a rotor winding. The control device includes a first control portion that drives both the power conversion circuit portion and the power supply circuit portion when the smoothing capacitor is discharged, a second control portion that drives only one of the power conversion circuit portion and the power supply circuit portion when the smoothing capacitor is discharged, and a selection portion that selectively causes one of the first control portion and the second control portion to function based on a predetermined condition.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a drive device for a winding-excited rotating electric motor. Background Technology

[0002] As a structure included in a vehicle drive device equipped with a power conversion device, a type of rapid discharge is known, which involves turning on a switching element that is connected in parallel with a smoothing capacitor under specified conditions, thereby allowing the charge stored in the smoothing capacitor to flow to the ground via a discharge resistor (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

[0003] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2016-86578

[0004] However, in a winding-excited rotating motor in which the rotor winding is wound on the rotor core, it is also possible to achieve discharge control by driving the power supply circuit that supplies power to the rotor winding, so that the two ends of the smoothing capacitor are connected through the rotor winding.

[0005] However, the existing technologies described above suffer from the problem that the discharge control method is singular and cannot perform discharge control corresponding to various states. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Therefore, in one respect, the purpose of this disclosure is to enable various discharge controls to be performed in accordance with various states.

[0007] In one aspect, a drive device for a wound-excited rotating electric motor is provided, which drives a wound-excited rotating electric motor in which rotor windings are wound around a rotor core. The drive device includes: a circuit section between the rotating electric motor and a power source; and a control device for controlling the circuit section. The circuit section includes: a smoothing capacitor located between a high-potential side line and a low-potential side line of the power source; a power conversion circuit section electrically connected to both ends of the smoothing capacitor and supplying alternating current to the stator windings of the rotating electric motor; and a power supply circuit section electrically connected to both ends of the smoothing capacitor in parallel with the power conversion circuit section and supplying power to the rotor windings. The control device includes: a first control section that drives both the power conversion circuit section and the power supply circuit section when the smoothing capacitor discharges; a second control section that drives only one of the power conversion circuit section and the power supply circuit section when the smoothing capacitor discharges; and a selection section that selectively functions one of the first control section and the second control section based on predetermined conditions.

[0008] In one respect, according to this disclosure, various discharge controls can be performed in accordance with various states. Attached Figure Description

[0009] Figure 1 This is a structural diagram showing a vehicle drive system including the drive device for the rotary motor in this embodiment.

[0010] Figure 1A It is Figure 1 The diagram is obtained by extracting the main circuit components of the vehicle drive system, excluding control devices such as microcomputers.

[0011] Figure 2 It is a rough cross-sectional view showing a portion of the cross-section of a rotating electric machine.

[0012] Figure 3 This is a simplified flowchart illustrating an example of a microcomputer-based process associated with the rapid discharge of a smoothing capacitor.

[0013] Figure 3A This represents the implementation of a microcomputer. Figure 3 A block diagram of the processing functions.

[0014] Figure 4 This is a simplified flowchart representing an example of a discharge process corresponding to the system state (the process implemented by the selection unit).

[0015] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 The diagram is an explanatory diagram, and it is an explanatory diagram of various specified conditions.

[0016] Figure 6 This is an explanatory diagram of a discharge state (1) formed by the selection unit and the first and second control units.

[0017] Figure 7 This is an explanatory diagram of the discharge state (2) formed by the selection unit and the first control unit and the second control unit.

[0018] Figure 8 This is an explanatory diagram of the discharge state (3) formed by the selection unit and the first and second control units.

[0019] Figure 9 This is an explanatory diagram of the discharge state (4) formed by the selection unit and the first and second control units.

[0020] Figure 10 This is a simplified flowchart illustrating another example of a microcomputer's processing associated with the rapid discharge of a smoothing capacitor.

[0021] Figure 10A This represents the implementation of a microcomputer. Figure 10 A block diagram of the processing functions.

[0022] Figure 11 yes Figure 10The diagram is an explanatory diagram, and it is an explanatory diagram of various specified conditions.

[0023] Figure 12 This is a flowchart illustrating a more detailed control example of the microcomputer in Embodiment 2.

[0024] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0025] 3... Rotary electric machine; 312... Rotor core; 316... Rotor winding; 321... Stator core; 322... Stator winding; 5... Drive unit (drive unit for rotating electric machine); 150... Microcomputer (control unit); 151... First acquisition unit; 152... Second acquisition unit; 153... Third acquisition unit; 154... Selection unit; 155... First control unit; 156... Second control unit; 62... Smoothing capacitor; 63... Power conversion circuit unit; 64... Power supply circuit unit. Detailed Implementation

[0026] Hereinafter, each embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that the dimensions in the drawings are merely examples and are not limiting; furthermore, shapes and other details in the drawings may be exaggerated for ease of explanation. Additionally, in the drawings, for ease of observation, some parts with multiple identical properties may be labeled with reference to the accompanying drawings only. Furthermore, in the following description, "specified" refers to a pre-defined term.

[0027] Figure 1 This is a structural diagram showing the vehicle drive system 1 including the drive device 5 for the rotary motor in this embodiment. Figure 1A It is Figure 1 The diagram is obtained by extracting the main circuit components of the vehicle drive system 1, excluding the microcomputer 150 and other control devices. Figure 2 This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a portion of the cross-section of the rotary motor 3.

[0028] The vehicle drive system 1 is a dual power supply structure including a low-voltage battery 2A and a high-voltage battery 2B, and includes a rotary motor 3 and a drive unit 5.

[0029] The low-voltage battery 2A is, for example, a lead-acid battery with a rated voltage of, for example, 12V.

[0030] The high-voltage battery 2B is, for example, a lithium-ion battery with a rated voltage significantly higher than that of the low-voltage battery 2A, for example, a rated voltage of 40V or higher. In this embodiment, as an example, the rated voltage of the high-voltage battery 2B is 300V or higher. Alternatively, the high-voltage battery 2B could also be a fuel cell or the like. Figure 1A (The following is a summary) Figure 6In the diagram (which is also the same), for convenience, the high-voltage battery 2B is shown separately on the left and right, but it is actually a shared component. Alternatively, the high-voltage battery 2B may be formed by multiple battery cells.

[0031] The rotary electric motor 3 is a winding-excited type and includes a rotor 310 formed by winding a rotor winding 316 around a rotor core 312. Additionally, as... Figure 2 As shown, the rotor core 312 has teeth 3122 protruding radially outward, on which conductor wires forming the rotor winding 316 are wound. A stator 320 is disposed radially outward of the rotor 310. (As shown...) Figure 2 As shown, the stator winding 322 is wound around the toothed portion 3210 of the stator core 321.

[0032] The drive unit 5 includes a microcomputer 150 (hereinafter referred to as "microcomputer 150") (an example of a control unit) and a circuit section 60.

[0033] The microcomputer 150 can be implemented, for example, in the form of an ECU (Electronic Control Unit). The microcomputer 150 is connected to various electronic components (other ECUs, sensors) in the vehicle via a network 6 such as CAN (controller area network).

[0034] Furthermore, the microcomputer 150 can be implemented by any computer, and its hardware architecture is arbitrary. Alternatively, the functions implemented by the microcomputer 150 (for example, as described later) can also be... Figure 3A A processor is installed in a circuitry or processing circuitry, including general-purpose processors, special-purpose processors, integrated circuits, ASICs (Application Specific Integrated Circuits), CPUs (Central Processing Units), conventional circuits, and / or combinations thereof, which are programmed in a manner to implement the functions described herein. A processor includes transistors and other circuitry, and is considered part of the circuitry or processing circuitry. A processor can also be a programmed processor that executes a program stored in memory.

[0035] The microcomputer 150 receives various commands, including control commands and rapid discharge commands (described later), from a host ECU (not shown) via network 6. Based on the control commands, the microcomputer 150 controls the rotary motor 3 via the circuit unit 60. Furthermore, based on the rapid discharge commands, the microcomputer 150 performs the rapid discharge process of the smoothing capacitor 62 (described later).

[0036] The microprocessor 150 operates based on power from the low-voltage battery 2A. Specifically, the microprocessor power supply IC (not shown) generates the power supply voltage for the operation of the microprocessor 150 based on power from the low-voltage battery 2A.

[0037] The circuit section 60 includes a smoothing capacitor 62, a power conversion circuit section 63, and a power supply circuit section 64. Additionally, Figure 1A (The following is a summary) Figure 6 In the same way, for convenience, the smoothing capacitor 62 is shown separately on the left and right, but in fact it is a shared component.

[0038] A smoothing capacitor 62 is disposed between the high-potential side line 20 and the low-potential side line 22 of the high-voltage battery 2B. Alternatively, a passive discharge resistor R0 may be connected across the two ends of the smoothing capacitor 62. The passive discharge resistor R0 functions to release the charge from the smoothing capacitor 62 when the dealer or user is maintaining the vehicle, in cases where the rapid discharge described later is ineffective. Furthermore, the discharge achieved by the passive discharge resistor R0 requires a significantly longer discharge time than the rapid discharge described later.

[0039] The power conversion circuit section 63 is an inverter, for example, forming a three-phase bridge circuit. The power conversion circuit section 63 is connected in parallel with the smoothing capacitor 62 between the high-potential side line 20 and the low-potential side line 22. The power conversion circuit section 63 includes switching elements SW3 on the high-potential side arm and switching elements SW4 on the low-potential side arm. The microcomputer 150 controls the energization of the stator winding 322 by controlling the on / off state of the switching elements SW3 and SW4 of the power conversion circuit section 63 via the gate drive circuit 52.

[0040] The power supply circuit section 64 includes a bridge circuit section 641 and a drive circuit section 642.

[0041] The bridge circuit section 641 is connected in parallel with the smoothing capacitor 62 and the passive discharge resistor R0 between the high-potential side line 20 and the low-potential side line 22. The bridge circuit section 641 includes a pair of switching elements SW1 and SW2 and a pair of diodes D1 and D2. Switching element SW1 is connected in series with diode D1, with the cathode of the high-potential side connected to it. One end of the rotor winding 316 is connected between switching element SW1 and diode D1. Furthermore, switching element SW2 is connected in series with diode D2, with the anode of the low-potential side connected to it. The other end of the rotor winding 316 is connected between switching element SW2 and diode D2. Hereinafter, for the sake of distinction, switching element SW1 and its associated structure will be described as having a "high-potential side," while switching element SW2 and its associated structure will be described as having a "low-potential side."

[0042] The paired switching elements SW1 and SW2 are switched between on / off states via the drive circuit section 642. Under the control of the drive circuit section 642, the paired switching elements SW1 and SW2 change the energizing state of the rotor winding 316. The switching elements SW1 and SW2 are, for example, IGBTs (Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistors), but can also be other types such as MOSFETs (Metal Oxide Semiconductor Field-Effect Transistors). In this embodiment, the rotor winding 316 is electrically connected to the power supply circuit section 64 via a contact method based on slip rings 317 and brushes (not shown), but a transformer or the like can also be used for a non-contact electrical connection.

[0043] The driving circuit section 642 includes a pair of gate driver ICs (Integrated Circuits) 6421 and 6422. The pair of gate driver ICs 6421 and 6422 are disposed between the microcomputer 150 and the pair of switching elements SW1 and SW2. The gate driver IC 6421 on the high-potential side drives the gate of the high-potential switching element SW1 based on a control signal from the microcomputer 150, and the gate driver IC 6422 on the low-potential side drives the gate of the low-potential switching element SW2 based on a control signal from the microcomputer 150.

[0044] Next, an example of the operation of the vehicle drive system 1 associated with the rapid discharge of the smoothing capacitor 62 will be described.

[0045] The rapid discharge of the smoothing capacitor 62 is achieved by discharging the charge (from the high-voltage battery 2B) stored in the smoothing capacitor 62 within a predetermined short time ΔT. Furthermore, during the operation of the rotary motor 3, the smoothing capacitor 62 retains a charge corresponding to the voltage across the high-voltage battery 2B. The short time ΔT can be approximately 1 second or 2 seconds, corresponding to existing requirements. The termination time of the rapid discharge can be the moment when the voltage across the smoothing capacitor 62 falls below a reference voltage (e.g., 60V). By achieving such rapid discharge of the smoothing capacitor 62 when the rapid discharge conditions are met, vehicle safety can be improved.

[0046] Figure 3 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating an example of the processing of a microcomputer 150 associated with the rapid discharge of a smoothing capacitor 62. Figure 3A It means to realize Figure 3 A block diagram of the functions of the microcomputer 150.

[0047] In step S300, the microcomputer 150 determines whether the rapid discharge condition (denoted as "discharge condition" in the figure) is met. The rapid discharge condition can be any condition; for example, it can be satisfied when an anomaly, as described below, occurs. Alternatively, the rapid discharge condition can be satisfied when a vehicle collision event or an unavoidable collision event occurs. The vehicle collision event can be detected based on information obtainable via network 6 (e.g., information indicating the activation of an irreversible occupant protection assist device such as an airbag). Furthermore, the unavoidable collision event can be detected based on information obtainable via network 6 (e.g., information indicating that the TTC (Time To Collision) has fallen below a specified time, information indicating the operation of the automatic braking device, etc.). Alternatively, the rapid discharge condition can be satisfied when a rapid discharge command is received via network 6. Alternatively, the rapid discharge condition can be satisfied when the system main relay SMR (see reference...) Figure 1 The condition is met if the main system relay SMR is disconnected. Alternatively, the system main relay SMR may be disconnected in the event of a vehicle collision. If the main system relay SMR is disconnected, the system is electrically disconnected relative to the high-voltage battery 2B.

[0048] In step S302, the microcomputer 150 acquires (masters) the states of the stator 320 and the rotor 310. This can be achieved by determining (mastering) the states of the stator 320 and the rotor 310 based on sensor information from various sensors used in the control of the stator 320 and the rotor 310.

[0049] In this embodiment, the microcomputer 150 acquires sensor information (hereinafter also referred to as stator-side sensor information) used in the control of the stator 320 (i.e., the control of the power conversion circuit section 63). The stator-side sensor information may include sensor information from sources such as the current sensor 400 and the position (angle) sensor 402 used in the control of the stator 320. The current sensor 400 may be provided for each phase to detect the current flowing in each phase of the rotating motor 3. The position sensor 402 may be a rotary transformer or the like. Furthermore, the stator-side sensor information may include sensor information used to detect anomalies (significant errors, malfunctions) in the power conversion circuit section 63. In this case, the microcomputer 150 implements a first acquisition unit 151 for acquiring stator-side sensor information (see reference 151). Figure 3A An example of ).

[0050] Furthermore, the microcomputer 150 acquires sensor information (hereinafter also referred to as rotor-side sensor information) used in the energization control of the rotor winding 316. This rotor-side sensor information may include sensor information used to detect anomalies (significant errors, faults) in the bridge circuit section 641 and the drive circuit section 642. In this case, the microcomputer 150 implements a second acquisition unit 152 for acquiring rotor-side sensor information (see reference 152). Figure 3A An example of ).

[0051] In step S304, the microcomputer 150 executes a discharge process corresponding to the system state based on the states (hereinafter also referred to as "system states") obtained in step S302. Specifically, the microcomputer 150 executes one of a variety of discharge processes. At this time, which discharge process to execute is determined (selected) based on the system state. In this case, the microcomputer 150 implements the selection unit 154 (see reference 154). Figure 3A An example of this. (See reference...) Figure 4 An example of the discharge treatment corresponding to each state is described in detail.

[0052] Thus, according to Figure 3 The processing shown can execute various discharge controls in accordance with the system state.

[0053] Figure 4 This is a schematic flowchart representing an example of a discharge process corresponding to the system state (the process implemented by the selection unit 154). Figure 5 yes Figure 4 The diagram is an explanatory diagram, and it is an explanatory diagram of various specified conditions. Figures 6 to 9 It is via the selection unit 154 and by the first control unit 155 (see reference). Figure 3A ) and the second control unit 156 (see reference) Figure 3A A diagram illustrating the discharge state formed. (In...) Figures 6 to 9 In the middle, with the aforementioned Figure 1A As a foundation, the flow of current is schematically shown through arrows such as R61, and the circuit status is schematically shown through the words "ASC" and "SDN". "ASC" is an abbreviation for "Active Short Circuit", and SDN is an abbreviation for "Shut Down".

[0054] In this embodiment, the selection unit 154 selectively enables one of the first control unit 155 and the second control unit 156 to function based on predetermined conditions. Figure 4 In the example shown, the specified condition is a combination of the first to the fourth specified conditions.

[0055] Specifically, if the first specified condition is met ("Yes" in step S400), the selection unit 154 causes the first control unit 155 to function and achieve the first discharge state. Figure 6 (The discharge state shown) (step S402).

[0056] like Figure 5 As shown, the first specified condition is met when the system state is determined to be normal. Alternatively, the determination of whether the system state is normal can be based on the stator-side sensor information and / or rotor-side sensor information mentioned above.

[0057] like Figure 6 As schematically shown, the first discharge state corresponds to the state in which both the power conversion circuit section 63 and the bridge circuit section 641 operate in a manner that makes the voltage across the smoothing capacitor 62 below the reference voltage. Specifically, the first control unit 155 controls the power conversion circuit section 63 in a manner that achieves the usual rapid discharge based on the power conversion circuit section 63. At this time, the first control unit 155 allows only the d-axis current to flow in a manner that does not generate torque on the rotary motor 3. Figure 6 (arrow R61) (an example of the first driving state). Thus, the charge on the positive side of the smoothing capacitor 62 flows to the ground via the power conversion circuit section 63, achieving rapid discharge. Hereinafter, this energizing method, in which only the d-axis current flows, will also be referred to as "d-axis energizing".

[0058] More specifically, the first control unit 155 performs a rapid discharge process by causing the voltage across the smoothing capacitor 62 to fall below the reference voltage within a predetermined short time ΔT. Alternatively, the time ΔT may correspond to a time specified by the vehicle manufacturer (e.g., 1 second, 2 seconds). In this case, the first control unit 155 controls the on / off state of each switching element SW3, SW4 of the power conversion circuit unit 63 to make the torque generated by the rotary motor 3 zero [N]. For example, the first control unit 155 may control the torque generated by the rotary motor 3 to be zero by setting the q-axis current command value to "0". Hereinafter, for distinction, this rapid discharge will also be referred to as "normal rapid discharge on the stator 320 side".

[0059] Furthermore, the first control unit 155 operates by controlling the bridge circuit unit 641 to allow current to flow through the rotor winding 316, thereby discharging the smoothing capacitor 62. Specifically, the first control unit 155 turns on the switching elements SW1 and SW2 and maintains them in the on state (an example of the first drive state). When the switching elements SW1 and SW2 are turned on, the high-potential side line 20 and the low-potential side line 22 are connected via the rotor winding 316. That is, the two ends of the smoothing capacitor 62 are connected via the rotor winding 316. Figure 6 (arrow R62). As a result, the smoothing capacitor 62 is rapidly discharged via the rotor winding 316. Hereinafter, in order to distinguish it from the usual rapid discharge on the stator 320 side described above, the rapid discharge achieved in this way via the rotor winding 316 is also referred to as "rapid discharge via rotor winding 316".

[0060] Based on this first discharge state, both the normal fast discharge on the stator 320 side and the fast discharge obtained via the rotor winding 316 are performed. Therefore, compared with the case of performing only one, the time required for discharge can be significantly reduced.

[0061] If the second specified condition is met ("Yes" in step S404), the selection unit 154 causes the second control unit 156 to function and achieve the second discharge state. Figure 7 (The discharge state shown) (step S406).

[0062] like Figure 5 As shown, the second condition is satisfied when the system state is abnormal and the cause of the abnormality is determined to be on the stator 320 side (i.e., there is an abnormality in the sensor information on the stator side). In this embodiment, as an example, the second condition is satisfied when the current sensor 400, which detects the current flowing in the rotating motor 3, is detected to be abnormal.

[0063] like Figure 7As schematically shown, the second discharge state corresponds to the state in which only the power conversion circuit section 63 and the bridge circuit section 641 of the bridge circuit section 641 are operated in such a way that the voltage across the smoothing capacitor 62 becomes below the reference voltage.

[0064] In this configuration, the second control unit 156 operates by controlling the bridge circuit unit 641 to allow current to flow through the rotor winding 316, thereby discharging the smoothing capacitor 62. Specifically, the second control unit 156 turns on the switching elements SW1 and SW2 and maintains them in an on state (an example of the third drive state). Furthermore, "maintaining an on state" includes the concept of being set to an on state through PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) operation (i.e., maintaining a duty cycle significantly greater than 0). When the switching elements SW1 and SW2 are turned on, the high-potential side line 20 and the low-potential side line 22 are connected via the rotor winding 316. That is, rapid discharge via the rotor winding 316 is achieved.

[0065] At this time, the second control unit 156 stops (closes) the power conversion circuit unit 63 (an example of the third drive state). That is, in the second discharge state, the second control unit 156 does not control the switching elements SW3 and SW4 to turn on / off. Furthermore, if rapid discharge is achieved via the rotor winding 316, the current flowing in the rotor winding 316 ( Figure 7 Arrow R72), induced current is generated through stator winding 322 ( Figure 7 (arrow R71). The induced current flows in the direction of charging the smoothing capacitor 62, but the smoothing capacitor 62 is discharged because the rapid discharge obtained through the rotor winding 316 dominates.

[0066] Based on this second discharge state, even if an abnormality is detected on the stator 320 side, the smoothing capacitor 62 can still be discharged through rapid discharge via the rotor winding 316. That is, in the case where current management on the stator 320 side is impossible due to an abnormality in the current sensor 400, normal rapid discharge on the stator 320 side can be prevented, and the smoothing capacitor 62 can still be discharged on the rotor 310 side.

[0067] However, for the typical rapid discharge on the stator 320 side described above, if the d-axis cannot be accurately identified due to an anomaly (error, malfunction) in the position sensor 402, the q-axis component may be unexpectedly included, posing a risk of torque generation due to energization. In this regard, by stopping the power conversion circuit 63 according to the second discharge state, such a risk can be avoided.

[0068] If the third specified condition is met ("Yes" in step S408), the selection unit 154 causes the first control unit 155 to function and achieve the third discharge state. Figure 8 (The discharge state shown) (step S410).

[0069] like Figure 5 As shown, the third condition is satisfied when the system state is abnormal and the cause of the abnormality is determined to be on the stator 320 side (i.e., the rotor-side sensor information is abnormal). In this embodiment, the third condition is satisfied when the position sensor 402, which detects the rotation angle of the rotary motor 3, is detected to be abnormal.

[0070] like Figure 8 As schematically shown, the third discharge state corresponds to the state in which only the power conversion circuit section 63 and the bridge circuit section 641 of the bridge circuit section 641 are operated in such a way that the voltage across the smoothing capacitor 62 becomes below the reference voltage.

[0071] In this configuration, the first control unit 155 operates by controlling the bridge circuit unit 641 to allow current to flow through the rotor winding 316 (an example of the second drive state), thereby discharging the smoothing capacitor 62. Specifically, the first control unit 155 turns on and maintains the switching elements SW1 and SW2 in the on state. When the switching elements SW1 and SW2 are on, the high-potential side line 20 and the low-potential side line 22 are connected via the rotor winding 316. That is, rapid discharge is achieved via the rotor winding 316.

[0072] At this time, the first control unit 155 controls the power conversion circuit unit 63 in an ASC state. Specifically, the first control unit 155 turns all the switches on the upper-side switch SW3 connected to the positive side and the lower-side switch SW4 connected to the negative side of the power conversion circuit unit 63 onto the positive side and turns all the switches on the other side off (an example of the second drive state). In addition, such an ASC state can also be achieved when the position sensor 40 malfunctions.

[0073] Here, if rapid discharge is achieved via rotor winding 316, then due to the current flowing at rotor winding 316 ( Figure 8 Arrow R82) and induced current is generated in stator winding 322 ( Figure 8 (arrow R81). If an ASC state is formed in this state, the induced current circulates between the stator winding 322 and the power conversion circuit section 63. Therefore, compared with the second discharge state described above, it is also possible to prevent the smoothing capacitor 62 from being charged by the induced current.

[0074] Based on this third discharge state, even if an abnormality is detected in the position sensor 40 on the stator 320 side, the smoothing capacitor 62 can be discharged through rapid discharge via the rotor winding 316. At this time, by forming an ASC state, charging on the stator 320 side can be prevented, and the smoothing capacitor 62 can be discharged efficiently on the rotor 310 side.

[0075] If the fourth specified condition is met ("Yes" in step S412), the selection unit 154 causes the second control unit 156 to function and achieve the fourth discharge state. Figure 9 (The discharge state shown) (step S414).

[0076] Items Figure 5 As shown, the fourth provision is satisfied when the system state is abnormal and the cause of the abnormality is determined to be on the rotor 310 side, which includes the power supply circuit section 64 (i.e., there is an abnormality in the rotor-side sensor information).

[0077] like Figure 9 As schematically shown, the fourth discharge state corresponds to the state in which only the power conversion circuit section 63 in the power conversion circuit section 63 and the bridge circuit section 641 are operated in such a way that the voltage across the smoothing capacitor 62 becomes below the reference voltage.

[0078] In this case, the second control unit 156 performs a rapid discharge process such that the voltage across the smoothing capacitor 62 becomes below the reference voltage within a predetermined short time ΔT. That is, it performs the normal rapid discharge on the stator 320 side (refer to arrow R91) (an example of the fourth drive state).

[0079] At this time, the second control unit 156 stops (closes) the bridge circuit unit 641. That is, in the fourth discharge state, the second control unit 156 does not turn on the switching elements SW1 and SW2, but keeps them in the open state (an example of the fourth drive state).

[0080] Based on this fourth discharge state, even if an abnormality is determined to exist on the rotor 310 side, which includes the power supply circuit section 64, the smoothing capacitor 62 can still be discharged. Here, if a normal rapid discharge is achieved on the stator 320 side, an induced current may be generated in the rotor winding 316 due to the current flowing in the stator winding 322. In particular, the d-axis energization brings a magnetic flux orthogonal to the rotor magnetic flux, maximizing the generation of induced current on the rotor side. In this embodiment, by stopping (closing) the rotor 310 side, the influence of such induced current generated in the rotor winding 316 can be reduced or eliminated.

[0081] in addition, Figure 4The processing order shown is just an example and can be changed appropriately. That is, the order in which the first to the fourth specified conditions are determined is arbitrary. For example, whether the third specified condition is true (step S408) can be determined before whether the second specified condition is true (step S404).

[0082] Next, refer to Figure 10 and Figure 11 Other embodiments will be described below. Hereinafter, for the sake of distinction, the above-described embodiments will also be referred to as "Embodiment 1", and the other embodiments below will also be referred to as "Embodiment 2".

[0083] Figure 10 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating another example of the processing associated with the rapid discharge of the smoothing capacitor 62 by the microcomputer 150A. Figure 10A This indicates the implementation of the microcomputer 150A. Figure 10 A block diagram of the processing functions. Figure 11 yes Figure 10 The diagram is an explanatory diagram, and it is an explanatory diagram of various specified conditions.

[0084] Example 2 Figure 10 As shown, compared to Embodiment 1 described above, the difference lies in the addition of step S1002.

[0085] In step S1002, the microcomputer 150A acquires (masters) the vehicle's driving status. For example, the microcomputer 150A acquires vehicle speed information from wheel speed sensors (or the ECU that calculates vehicle speed) via a suitable bus such as CAN (Controller Area Network). Alternatively, the microcomputer 150A may acquire information indicating braking status (e.g., sensor information from master cylinder pressure and pedal force sensors) in addition to vehicle speed information. In this case, the microcomputer 150A implements the third acquisition unit 153 for acquiring the vehicle's driving status (see...). Figure 10A An example of ).

[0086] Furthermore, in step S1006, the microcomputer 150A performs a discharge process corresponding to the vehicle's driving state and the system state based on these conditions. Specifically, as follows... Figure 11 As shown, any of the above-mentioned first to fourth discharge states are executed based on various specified conditions related to the vehicle's driving state and system state.

[0087] More specifically, on the one hand, when the vehicle's driving status is "stationary," refer to Figure 5Based on various specified conditions, and with the same correspondence as in Embodiment 1 above, any one of the first to fourth discharge states described above can be achieved. Furthermore, the method for determining whether the vehicle's driving state is "stopped" is arbitrary, but for example, when the vehicle speed is 0 or at an extremely low speed, it can be determined that the vehicle's driving state is "stopped".

[0088] On the other hand, when the vehicle is in a "driving" state, such as Figure 11 As shown, depending on the different correspondences with the stop state, either the third or fourth discharge state described above can be achieved based on various specified conditions. Specifically, similar to the case where the third specified condition is met, the third discharge state is formed when the second specified condition is met.

[0089] Furthermore, even when the first specified condition is met while driving, the first discharge state is not formed (no special discharge state is formed). This is because there is no need to discharge while driving.

[0090] Thus, according to Figure 10 The processing shown can perform various discharge controls in accordance with the vehicle's driving state and system state.

[0091] Figure 12 This is a flowchart illustrating a more detailed control example of the microcomputer 150A in Embodiment 2.

[0092] In step S1200, the microcomputer 150A determines whether the operating mode is a discharge control mode. This discharge control mode can be formed, for example, when the aforementioned rapid discharge conditions are met. If the determination result is "yes," the process proceeds to step S1202; otherwise, it terminates.

[0093] In step S1202, the microcomputer 150A determines whether the rotor power supply circuit side system is normal. This determination can be based on the rotor side sensor information mentioned above. For example, if the rotor side sensor information shows an abnormal value in a prescribed manner, it can be determined that the rotor power supply circuit side system is abnormal. If the determination result is "yes", proceed to step S1204; otherwise, proceed to step S1206.

[0094] In step S1204, the microcomputer 150A sets the rotor state to "energized" during discharge. That is, the microcomputer 150A turns on the switching elements SW1 and SW2 and maintains the on state of the switching elements SW1 and SW2.

[0095] In step S1206, the microcomputer 150A sets the rotor state during discharge to "SDN". That is, the microcomputer 150A disconnects the switching elements SW1 and SW2 and maintains the disconnected state of the switching elements SW1 and SW2.

[0096] In step S1208, the microcomputer 150A determines whether the position sensor 402 is functioning properly. Alternatively, the determination of whether the position sensor 402 is functioning properly can be based on diagnostic information, etc. If the determination result is "yes", proceed to step S1210; otherwise, proceed to step S1218.

[0097] In step S1210, the microcomputer 150A determines whether the current sensor 400 is functioning properly. Alternatively, the determination of whether the current sensor 400 is functioning properly can be based on diagnostic information, etc. If the determination result is "yes", proceed to step S1216; otherwise, proceed to step S1212.

[0098] In step S1212, the microcomputer 150A determines whether the vehicle is in a stopped driving state. If the determination result is "yes", it proceeds to step S1214; otherwise, it proceeds to step S1218.

[0099] In step S1214, the microcomputer 150A sets the stator state to "SDN" during discharge. That is, the microcomputer 150A makes all the switching elements SW3 and SW4 of the power conversion circuit section 63 open. If step S1214 terminates, then proceed to step S1222.

[0100] In step S1216, the microcomputer 150A determines whether the vehicle is in motion and whether the rotor power supply circuit system is functioning normally. If the determination result is "yes", the process terminates; otherwise, it proceeds to step S1220.

[0101] In step S1218, the microcomputer 150A sets the stator state during discharge to "ASC". That is, for each of the switching elements SW3 and SW4 in the power conversion circuit section 63, the microcomputer 150A makes all the switching elements on one side of the upper-side switching element SW3 connected to the positive side and the lower-side switching element SW4 connected to the negative side turn on, and makes all the switching elements on the other side turn off.

[0102] In step S1220, the microcomputer 150A sets the stator state during discharge to "d-axis energized". That is, the microcomputer 150A controls the power conversion circuit 63 to allow only the d-axis current to flow in a manner that does not generate torque of the rotary motor 3.

[0103] In step S1222, the microcomputer 150A determines whether to transition to a discharge state. That is, the microcomputer 150A determines whether the rotor state is "energized" or whether the stator state is "d-axis energized" during discharge. If the determination result is "yes", the process proceeds to step S1224; otherwise, it terminates.

[0104] In step S1224, the microcomputer 150A checks whether the smoothing capacitor 62 has any residual charge. Figure 12 The presence or absence of charge on the smoothing capacitor 62 can also be determined based on the voltage across the smoothing capacitor 62. If the determination result is "yes", the system enters a standby state until the charge on the smoothing capacitor 62 disappears; otherwise, the process terminates.

[0105] In step S1226, the microcomputer 150A executes and continues the discharge corresponding to each of the set states (each set state of rotor state and stator state during discharge).

[0106] According to Example 2, the same effect as in Example 1 described above is obtained. In particular, according to Example 2, since the vehicle's driving state is taken into account, a discharge state corresponding to the vehicle's driving state can be formed.

[0107] The embodiments have been described in detail above, but are not limited to specific embodiments. Various modifications and alterations can be made within the scope of the claims. Furthermore, all or more of the structural elements of the foregoing embodiments can be combined.

[0108] The following notes further disclose the above embodiments.

[0109] [Appendix 1]

[0110] A drive device for a wound-excited rotating electric motor is provided for driving a wound-excited rotating electric motor in which rotor windings are wound around a rotor core. The drive device includes: a circuit section between the rotating electric motor and a power source; and a control device for controlling the circuit section. The circuit section includes: a smoothing capacitor located between a high-potential side line and a low-potential side line of the power source; a power conversion circuit section electrically connected to the two ends of the smoothing capacitor and supplying AC power to the stator windings of the rotating electric motor; and a power supply circuit section electrically connected to the two ends of the smoothing capacitor in parallel with the power conversion circuit section and supplying power to the rotor windings. The control device includes: a first control section that drives both the power conversion circuit section and the power supply circuit section when the smoothing capacitor discharges; a second control section that drives only one of the power conversion circuit section and the power supply circuit section when the smoothing capacitor discharges; and a selection section that selectively enables one of the first control section and the second control section to function based on predetermined conditions.

[0111] [Appendix 2]

[0112] In the drive device for the winding-excited rotating electric motor described in Appendix 1, the control device further includes: a first acquisition unit that acquires stator-side sensor information from a first sensor as sensor information used in the control of the power conversion circuit section; and a second acquisition unit that acquires rotor-side sensor information from a second sensor as sensor information used in the control of the power supply circuit section, wherein the specified conditions include conditions related to the state of at least one of the first sensor and the second sensor.

[0113] [Appendix 3]

[0114] In the drive device for the winding-excited rotating electric motor described in Appendix 2, the control device further includes a third acquisition unit for acquiring the driving state of the vehicle, and the specified conditions also include conditions related to the driving state of the vehicle.

[0115] [Appendix 4]

[0116] In the drive device for a winding-excited rotating electric machine as described in any one of Appendices 1 to 3, the first control unit can selectively form a first drive state and a second drive state. The first drive state is a state in which the two ends of the smoothing capacitor are turned on through the rotor winding by the power supply circuit unit and the smoothing capacitor is rapidly discharged through the power conversion circuit unit. The second drive state is a state in which the two ends of the smoothing capacitor are turned on through the rotor winding by the power supply circuit unit and the current induced by the stator winding circulates in the power conversion circuit unit. When the selection unit selectively enables the first control unit to function based on the aforementioned predetermined conditions, it selectively forms one of the first drive state and the second drive state.

[0117] [Appendix 5]

[0118] In the drive device for a winding-excited rotating electric machine as described in any one of Appendices 1 to 4, the second control unit can selectively form a third drive state that drives only the power supply circuit section and only the power conversion circuit section, and a fourth drive state that drives only the power conversion circuit section. When the selection unit selectively enables the second control unit to function based on the aforementioned predetermined conditions, it selectively forms one of the third drive state and the fourth drive state.

Claims

1. A drive device for a wound-excited rotating electric motor, which drives a wound-excited rotating electric motor in which rotor windings are wound around a rotor core, characterized in that... have: The circuit section between the rotary motor and the power supply; as well as A control device for controlling the circuit section. The circuit section includes: A smoothing capacitor is located between the high-potential side line and the low-potential side line of the power supply. A power conversion circuit section, electrically connected to both ends of the smoothing capacitor, supplies alternating current to the stator windings of the rotating motor; and The power supply circuit section is electrically connected to the two ends of the smoothing capacitor in parallel with the power conversion circuit section, and supplies power to the rotor winding. The control device includes: The first control unit drives both the power conversion circuit unit and the power supply circuit unit when the smoothing capacitor is discharged. The second control unit drives only one of the power conversion circuit and the power supply circuit during the discharge of the smoothing capacitor; and The selection unit, based on predetermined conditions, selectively enables one of the first control unit and the second control unit to function.

2. The drive device for a winding-excited rotating electric motor according to claim 1, characterized in that, The control device further includes: The first acquisition unit acquires stator-side sensor information from the first sensor, which is used as sensor information in the control of the power conversion circuit unit; and The second acquisition unit acquires rotor-side sensor information from the second sensor, which is used as sensor information in the control of the power supply circuit unit. The specified conditions include conditions related to the state of at least one of the first and second sensors.

3. The drive device for a winding-excited rotating electric motor according to claim 2, characterized in that, The control device also includes a third acquisition unit for acquiring the vehicle's driving status. The specified conditions also include conditions related to the vehicle's driving status.

4. The drive device for a winding-excited rotating electric motor according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The first control unit can selectively form a first driving state and a second driving state. The first driving state is a state in which the two ends of the smoothing capacitor are turned on through the rotor winding by the power supply circuit unit and the smoothing capacitor is rapidly discharged through the power conversion circuit unit. The second driving state is a state in which the two ends of the smoothing capacitor are turned on through the rotor winding by the power supply circuit unit and the current induced by the stator winding is circulated within the power conversion circuit unit. When the selection unit selectively enables the first control unit to function based on the specified conditions, it selectively forms one of the first driving state and the second driving state.

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