Vehicle and control procedures for the vehicle

Abstract

Vehicle, characterized by a machine (160); an electric motor (130, 135) configured to generate electrical power by using the driving force of the machine (160); an electrical storage device (110); and a control device (300) configured to control the supply of electrical power, which is a first and / or a second electrical power, to outside the vehicle, wherein the first electrical power is electrical power generated by the electric motor (130, 135), and the second electrical power is electrical power stored in the electrical storage device (110), and based on a setting implemented by a user, to select whether the generation of electrical power by using the driving force of the machine (160) is to be permitted or prevented, wherein the vehicle further comprising an operating unit (180) configured to be operated by the user to select whether to allow or prevent the generation of electrical power by using the driving force of the machine (160), wherein the control device (300) is configured, based on a state of the operating unit (180), to set whether the generation of electrical power by using the driving force of the machine (160) is to be allowed or prevented, wherein the vehicle is configured to be operated while switching between a first operating mode and a second operating mode, wherein the first operating mode is an operating mode in which the vehicle preferably drives by using only the electric motor (130, 135) while the machine (160) is stopped, the second operating mode is an operating mode in which the vehicle maintains a state variable of the electrical storage device at a predetermined setpoint by operating the machine (160), wherein the state variable is a quantity that indicates a state of charge of the electrical storage device (110), the operating unit (180) is a switch which is operated by the user to select the first operating mode or the second operating mode, and the control device (300) is configured when the second operating mode is selected for supplying electrical power outside the vehicle to allow the generation of electrical power by using the motive power of the machine (160), wherein the control device (300) is further configured to allow the user to preset a period of time during which the generation of electrical power by using the driving force of the machine (160) is prevented, and the control device (300) is configured to control a state of charge of the electrical storage device (110) such that a state variable of the electrical storage device (110) assumes a setpoint value, wherein when the time duration is set, the target value is set before the start of the time duration, and The target value at the time when the time duration is set is set in such a way that it is higher than the target value at the time when the time duration is not set.

Description

TECHNICAL AREA

[0001] The invention relates to a vehicle and a control method for a vehicle, and more precisely to a vehicle and a control method for a vehicle that are capable of supplying electrical power generated by a driving force of a machine (internal combustion engine) to the outside. STATE OF THE ART

[0002] Japanese patent application publication no. JP 2007-236 023 A (patent document 1) describes a power supply system for a house. This system supplies electrical loads in the house with electrical power from a hybrid vehicle. In this system, when the remaining charge of the battery in the hybrid vehicle is high, electrical power stored in the battery is supplied to the house. Conversely, when the remaining charge is low, electrical power generated by the vehicle's drive system is supplied to the house (see patent document 1). DOCUMENT ACCORDING TO THE STATE OF THE TECHNOLOGY PATENT DOCUMENT Patent document 1: JP 2007- 236 023 A Patent document 2: JP 2009- 278 776 A

[0003] US patent 2011 / 0140660A1 discloses a battery charging system for hybrid vehicles which includes a user-operated switch to allow a generator to be used to charge a battery while the vehicle is parked.

[0004] The KR 10 2007 0 066 201 A discloses a remote control for a vehicle using a telematics system.

[0005] DE 10 2007 004 172 A1 discloses a motor vehicle with at least one traction battery, a traction inverter, an electric drive motor, and an internal combustion engine-driven generator. The internal combustion engine-driven generator can be activated and / or deactivated by a signal when the motor vehicle is switched off. Upon activation, the internal combustion engine is started and the traction battery is charged. Upon deactivation, the internal combustion engine drive of the generator is switched off.

[0006] WO 2012 / 101 735 A1 discloses a hybrid vehicle capable of supplying power stored in a battery device to the outside via a plug.

[0007] US Patent 2010 / 0 100 264 A1 discloses a power supply system for a vehicle in which an electrical power allocation ratio to be used during CD (Continuous Decay) operation is calculated between a first energy storage device and a second energy storage device connected to a second converter, based on the remaining electrical energy of each energy storage device. Furthermore, a deviation between the state of charge (SOC) of each of the first energy storage devices and the second energy storage device connected to the second converter, and a target value thereof, is calculated, and an electrical power allocation ratio to be used during CS (Common Decay) operation is calculated based on the calculated deviation. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED BY THE INVENTION

[0008] In the power supply system described above, when the remaining charge of the battery decreases, the machine is automatically started (activated) and electrical power is generated. However, there is a case in which starting the machine is not desirable, even if the remaining charge of the battery decreases.

[0009] For example, if the hybrid vehicle is parked in an indoor garage, or if electrical power is supplied from the hybrid vehicle in the middle of the night, there is a situation in which operating the machine is undesirable with regard to emissions, operating noise, and the like resulting from its operation. This point was not specifically investigated in the power supply system described in the preceding publication.

[0010] The invention was conceived to solve such an inconvenience, and it is an object of the invention to determine, in a vehicle that is capable of supplying electrical power generated by a driving force of a machine to the outside, according to a mode of use of the vehicle, whether it is permitted to operate the machine. MEANS TO SOLVE THE PROBLEM

[0011] This problem is solved by a vehicle as specified in claim 1, and alternatively by a method as specified in claim 19.

[0012] Advantageous embodiments are specified in the dependent patent claims. IMPACT OF THE INVENTION

[0013] According to the invention, in a vehicle capable of supplying electrical power generated by the use of a drive force from a machine to the outside, a user is permitted to determine, according to a usage mode of the vehicle, whether the machine is to be operated. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Fig. Figure 1 shows an overall block diagram of a vehicle according to a first embodiment of the invention. Fig. Figure 2 shows a functional block diagram relating to a power supply control of a [system / device] in [a specific location / system]. Fig. 1 control device shown. Fig. Figure 3 shows a flowchart to illustrate a process relating to the power input control of the in Fig. 1 control device shown. Fig. Figure 4 shows an overall block diagram of a vehicle according to a second embodiment of the invention. Fig. Figure 5 shows a time history diagram that depicts the operating state of a machine in relation to a change in a SOC of a machine in Fig. 4 illustrated electrical storage device. Fig. Figure 6 shows a flowchart illustrating a process related to power input control of a [system / device]. Fig. 4 control device shown. Fig. Figure 7 shows a time history diagram illustrating an operating state of a machine with respect to a change in a SOC of an electrical storage device according to a third embodiment of the invention. Fig. Figure 8 shows a flowchart to illustrate a process relating to a power supply control of a control device according to the third embodiment of the invention. Fig. Figure 9 shows a flowchart to illustrate a process relating to a power supply control of a control device according to a fourth embodiment of the invention. Fig. Figure 10 shows a flowchart to illustrate a process relating to a power supply control of a control device according to an alternative embodiment to the fourth embodiment of the invention. Fig. Figure 11 shows a time history diagram illustrating an operating state of a machine with respect to a change in a SOC of an electrical storage device according to a fifth embodiment of the invention. Fig. Figure 12 shows a flowchart to illustrate a process relating to a power supply control of a control device according to the fifth embodiment of the invention. WAYS TO IMPLEMENT THE INVENTION

[0014] Exemplary embodiments of the invention are described in detail below with reference to the drawings. Identical reference numerals denote the same or corresponding sections in the drawings, and their descriptions will not be repeated. First embodiment

[0015] Fig. Figure 1 shows a complete block diagram of a vehicle according to a first embodiment of the invention. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, the vehicle 100 comprises an electrical storage device 110, a system main relay (SMR) 115, a power control unit (PCU) 120, which serves as a drive unit, motor generators 130, 135, a power transmission gearbox 140, a drive wheel 50, a machine 160, which serves as an internal combustion engine, and an electronic control unit (ECU) 300, which serves as a control device. The PCU 120 comprises a converter 121, inverters 122, 123, and capacitors C1, C2.

[0016] The electrical storage device 110 is an electrical power storage element configured to be rechargeable and dischargeable. The electrical storage device 110 is formed, for example, from a secondary battery such as a lithium-ion battery, a nickel-metal hydride battery, or a lead-acid battery, or from an electrical storage element such as an electrical double-layer capacitor.

[0017] The electrical storage device 110 is connected to the PCU 120 via power lines PL1 and NL1. The electrical storage device 110 supplies the PCU 120 with electrical power to generate motive power for the vehicle 100. The electrical storage device 110 stores electrical power generated by the motor generators 130 and 135. The output of the electrical storage device 110 is, for example, approximately 200 volts.

[0018] The electrical storage device 110 has a voltage sensor and a current sensor (neither of which are shown). The voltage VB and the current IB of the electrical storage device 110, as detected by these sensors, are output to the ECU 300.

[0019] The SMR 115 has one relay connected to power line PL1 and another relay connected to the negative electrode terminal of the electrical storage device 110 and power line NL1. Power line PL1 is connected to the positive electrode terminal of the electrical storage device 110 and the PCU 120. The SMR 115 switches between supplying and interrupting electrical power between the electrical storage device 110 and the PCU 120 based on a control signal SE1 from the ECU 300.

[0020] The converter 121 converts voltage between the pair of power lines PL1, NL1 and the pair of power lines PL2, NL2 based on a control signal PWC from the ECU 300.

[0021] Inverters 122 and 123 are connected in parallel to each other via power lines PL2 and NL2. Each inverter 122 and 123 converts DC power from converter 121 into AC power based on corresponding control signals PWI1 and PWI2 from ECU 300 and drives one of the corresponding motor generators 130 and 135.

[0022] Capacitor C1 is placed between power lines PL1 and NL1 and reduces voltage fluctuations between these two lines. Capacitor C2 is placed between power lines PL2 and NL2 and also reduces voltage fluctuations between these two lines.

[0023] Each of the motor generators 130, 135 is a rotating electric alternating current machine and is, for example, a permanent magnet synchronous motor with a rotor in which permanent magnets are embedded.

[0024] The output torque of each of the motor generators 130, 135 is transmitted via the power transmission gearbox 140 to the drive wheel 150, propelling the vehicle 100. The power transmission gearbox 140 includes a reduction gear and a power-sharing device. Each of the motor generators 130, 135 is capable of generating electrical power by utilizing the torque of the drive wheel 150 during regenerative braking of the vehicle 100. The generated electrical power is converted by the power control unit 120 into electrical power for charging the electrical storage device 110.

[0025] The motor generators 130 and 135 are also coupled to the machine 160 via the power transmission gearbox 140. The required vehicle tractive force is generated by the coordinated operation of the motor generators 130 and 135 and the machine 160 by the ECU 300. Additionally, each of the motor generators 130 and 135 is capable of generating electrical power by utilizing the rotation of the machine 160 and is capable of charging the electrical storage device 110 with the generated electrical power. According to the present embodiment, the motor generator 135 is used exclusively as an electric motor to drive the drive wheel 150, and the motor generator 130 is used exclusively as a generator driven by the machine 160.

[0026] In Fig. Figure 1 is a configuration showing two motor-generators as an example; however, the number of motor-generators is not limited to two. The number of motor-generators can be any number, or the number of motor-generators can be more than two.

[0027] The vehicle 100 has a charging device 200, a relay 210 and an inlet 220, which serves as a connecting section, as a configuration for charging the electrical storage device 110 with electrical power from an external power supply 500.

[0028] A connector 510 of the external power supply 500 is connected to the inlet 220. Electrical power from the external power supply 500 is transferred to the vehicle 100.

[0029] The charging device 200 is connected to the inlet 220 via power lines ACL1 and ACL2. The charging device 200 is connected to the electrical storage device 110 via power lines PL3 and NL3 through relay 210.

[0030] The charging device 200 is controlled by a control signal PWD1 from the ECU 300 and converts alternating current power supplied from the inlet 220 into electrical power for charging the electrical storage device 110.

[0031] The relay 210 is controlled by a control signal SE2 from the ECU 300 and switches between supply and interruption of electrical power between the charging device 200 and the electrical storage device 110.

[0032] The vehicle 100 has an electrical power converter 250, a relay 260 and a socket 270 as a configuration for converting direct current power from the electrical storage device 110 or direct current power generated by the motor generators 130, 135 and converted by the PCU 120 into alternating current power and supplying electrical power to outside the vehicle.

[0033] The relay 260 is controlled by a control signal SE3 from the ECU 300 and switches between supply and interruption of electrical power between the electrical power converter 250 and the electrical storage device 110.

[0034] The electrical power converter 250 is connected to the electrical storage device 110 via power lines PL4 and NL4 through relay 260. The electrical power converter 250 is connected to the socket 270 via power lines ACL3 and ACL4.

[0035] The electrical power converter 250 is controlled by a control signal PWD2 from the ECU 300 and converts direct current power supplied from the electrical storage device 210 or the PCU 120 into alternating current power.

[0036] An external electrical device (not shown) is connected to socket 270. Electrical power from the vehicle 100 is transferred to the external electrical device.

[0037] According to Fig. 1. The charging device 200 and the electrical power converter 250 are provided. Instead, a single electrical power converter capable of bidirectionally converting electrical power can have the function of the charging device and the function of the electrical power converter 250.

[0038] The ECU 300 features a central processing unit (CPU), a memory device, and an input / output buffer (all of which are not included). Fig. (as shown in Figure 1). The ECU 300 receives signals from sensors or similar devices and outputs control signals to devices. The ECU 300 controls the electrical storage device 110 and the vehicle devices 100. These controls are not limited to software processing but can be processed by dedicated hardware (electronic circuits).

[0039] According to Fig. 1 is a single control unit such as the ECU 300. Instead, individual control units for functions or controlled devices may be provided, such as a control unit for the PCU 120, a control unit for the electrical storage device 110, and the like.

[0040] The ECU 300 calculates a state of charge (SOC) of the electrical storage device 110 based on the detected values ​​of the voltage VB and the current IB from the electrical storage device 110.

[0041] The vehicle 100 is capable of operating in either a charge depletion (CD) or charge sustaining (CS) mode. The CD mode is an operating mode in which the vehicle preferably operates using only the motor-generator 135, while the machine 160 is stopped. The CS mode is an operating mode in which the vehicle maintains the state of charge (SOC) of the electrical storage device 110 at a predetermined setpoint by operating the machine 160. The ECU 300 controls changes to the vehicle's drive mode based on the SOC.

[0042] CS mode is a drive mode in which, when necessary, electrical power is generated by the motor-generator 130 by operating the machine 160 in order to maintain the state of charge (SOC) of the electrical storage device 110 at the predetermined setpoint. CS mode is not limited to a mode in which the vehicle is driven with constant operation of the machine 160. In contrast, even in CD mode, operation of the machine 160 is permitted if the accelerator pedal is depressed to a high degree by the driver, during the operation of an air conditioning system of a machine-driven type, during engine warm-up, or similar situations.The CD operating mode is a drive mode in which the vehicle is essentially caused to operate by using electrical power stored in the electrical storage device 110 as an energy source, without maintaining the state of charge (SOC) of the electrical storage device 110 at a predetermined setpoint. During the CD operating mode, the proportion of discharge is usually relatively larger than the proportion of charge.

[0043] This means that even if the drive mode is CD mode, but the accelerator pedal is depressed significantly and high vehicle power is required, the machine 160 will operate. Even if the drive mode is CS mode, but the state of charge (SOC) exceeds the setpoint, the machine 160 will stop. Therefore, regardless of the drive mode, driving using only the motor generator 135 while the machine 160 stops is referred to as "EV driving," and driving using both the motor generator 135 and the machine 160 is referred to as "HV driving."

[0044] The ECU 300 receives a signal SW from a switch 180, which is an operating element. The SW signal indicates the state of switch 180. A user is permitted to select the drive operating mode by operating switch 180. The ECU 300 obtains the drive operating mode selected by the user based on the SW signal. The ECU 300 controls the machine 160 using a control signal DRV.

[0045] In the vehicle described above, as found in a smart grid or similar system, the concept was studied that a vehicle is considered an electrical power source, and electrical power from the vehicle is supplied to a general electrical device outside the vehicle. There is also a case where the vehicle is used as a power source when an electrical device is used while camping, working outdoors, or similar activities.

[0046] When electrical power is supplied from a vehicle in this manner, most cases generally assume that electrical power stored in an electrical storage device is being supplied. As the remaining charge of the electrical storage device decreases, the operating mode is changed to supply electrical power generated by the motive force of the machine 160. However, there are situations, such as when a vehicle is parked in an indoor garage or when electrical power is supplied from the vehicle in the middle of the night, where operating the machine is undesirable due to emissions, operating noise, and the like resulting from its operation.

[0047] Therefore, according to the first embodiment, a power supply control is implemented. In the power supply control, the generation of electrical power by using the drive force of the machine 160 is permitted or prevented based on the drive operating mode selected by the user.

[0048] Fig. Figure 2 shows a functional block diagram relating to the power supply control of the ECU 300 according to Fig. 1. As it is in Fig. As shown in Figure 2, the ECU 300 has an input unit 310, a destination unit 320 and a control unit 330.

[0049] The input unit 310 receives the SW signal from switch 180. The SW signal indicates the state of switch 180. Based on the SW signal, the input unit 310 determines the drive operating mode selected by the user. The input unit 310 outputs the drive operating mode MODE selected by the user to the destination unit 320.

[0050] The determining unit 320, based on the drive operating mode MODUS received from the input unit 310, determines whether the generation of electrical power by using the drive force of the machine 160 is permitted. Specifically, if the drive operating mode MODUS is CS mode, the determining unit 320 permits the generation of electrical power by using the drive force of the machine 160. If the drive operating mode MODUS is CD mode, the determining unit 320 prevents the generation of electrical power by using the drive force of the machine 160. The determining unit 320 outputs a signal SIG to the control unit 330. The signal SIG indicates whether the generation of electrical power by using the drive force of the machine 160 is permitted.

[0051] The control unit 330 controls the operation of the machine 160, the PCU 120, and the electrical power converter 250 based on the signal SIG received from the destination unit 320. Specifically, if the generation of electrical power using the drive force of the machine 160 is permitted, the control unit 330 starts the machine 160 when the state of charge (SOC) of the electrical storage device 110 decreases. The control unit 330 controls the machine 160 and the PCU 120 such that the motor-generator 130 generates electrical power using the drive force of the machine 160. The control unit 330 controls the electrical power converter 250 such that the generated electrical power is supplied from the socket 270 to the external electrical device.In contrast, if the generation of electrical power by using the driving force of the machine 160 is prevented, the control unit 330 does not start the machine 160, even if the SOC of the electrical storage device 110 decreases, and stops the supply of electrical power to the external electrical device.

[0052] Fig. Figure 3 shows a flowchart to illustrate a process relating to the power supply control of the ECU 300 according to Fig. 1. Each of the steps in the flowcharts that are in Fig. 3, Fig. 6, Fig. 8 to Fig. 10 and Fig. The process shown in Figure 12 is implemented as described below. A program pre-stored in the ECU 300 is called from a main routine and executed at predetermined intervals or in response to the fulfillment of a predetermined condition. Alternatively, some of the steps can be implemented as a process by constructing special hardware (electronic circuitry).

[0053] As it is in Fig. As shown in Figure 3, in step 100 (hereinafter abbreviated as "S"), the ECU 300 determines, based on the SW signal from switch 180, whether the drive mode selected by the user is the CS mode. If the drive mode selected by the user is the CS mode (YES in S100), the ECU 300 allows the generation of electrical power by using the drive force of machine 160 (S200).

[0054] If, on the other hand, the drive mode selected by the user is not the CS mode (NO in S100), the ECU 300 prevents the generation of electrical power by using the drive force of the machine 160 (S300).

[0055] Subsequently, in S400, if the generation of electrical power by using the driving force of machine 160 is permitted, the ECU 300 supplies electrical power to the electrical storage device 110 and electrical power generated by using machine 160 to the external electrical device. Conversely, if the generation of electrical power by using the driving force of machine 160 is prevented, the ECU 300 supplies only the electrical power from the electrical storage device 110 to the external electrical device.

[0056] As described above, according to the first embodiment, the user is allowed to determine, according to a usage mode of the vehicle 100, whether the machine 160 is to be operated.

[0057] According to this first embodiment, the user is permitted to select, by operating switch 180, whether the generation of electrical power by using the drive force of the machine 160 is to be allowed or prevented. Thus, the user is allowed, with a simple operation similar to parking a vehicle or the like, to select whether the generation of electrical power by using the drive force of the machine 160 is to be allowed or prevented.

[0058] According to this first embodiment, the switch for selecting the drive mode of the vehicle 100 can be used as a switch to select whether the generation of electrical power using the drive force of the machine 160 is to be permitted or prevented. Thus, it is not necessary to provide a separate switch for selecting whether the generation of electrical power using the drive force of the machine 160 is to be permitted or prevented, thereby reducing costs.

[0059] According to this first embodiment, when the CS operating mode is selected by the user as the drive operating mode, the generation of electrical power through the use of the drive force of the machine 160 is permitted. Conversely, when the CD operating mode is selected by the user as the drive operating mode, the generation of electrical power through the use of the drive force of the machine 160 is prevented. Thus, it is possible to configure, in conjunction with the drive operating mode of the vehicle 100, whether the generation of electrical power through the use of the drive force of the machine 160 is permitted or prevented. This makes it possible to improve user comfort. Second embodiment

[0060] According to the first embodiment, the case is described in which the generation of electrical power by using the driving force of the machine 160 is permitted or prevented based on the drive operating mode selected by the user.

[0061] According to a second embodiment, the case is described in which the generation of electrical power by using the driving force of the machine 160 is permitted or prevented on the basis of the operation of a communication terminal device carried by a user.

[0062] Fig. Figure 4 shows a complete block diagram of a vehicle according to the second embodiment of the invention. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, the vehicle 100A also has a communication device 170 in addition to the configuration according to the first embodiment.

[0063] The communication device 170 is connected to the ECU 300. The communication device 170 is configured to communicate with the communication terminal 900 carried by the user. The communication device 170 wirelessly exchanges data with the communication terminal 900 via an antenna 175. The communication terminal 900 is, for example, a mobile device such as a smartphone.

[0064] Fig. Figure 5 shows a time history diagram illustrating the operating state of machine 160 with respect to a change in the SOC of the electrical storage device 110 according to Fig. 4 illustrates.

[0065] As it is in Fig. As shown in Figure 5, when the state of charge (SOC) falls below a threshold value X as a result of the vehicle supplying 100 A of electrical power to an external electrical device, the communication device 170, based on a command from the ECU 300, sends a signal to the communication terminal 900 requesting a selection as to whether the generation of electrical power using the motive power of the machine 160 should be permitted or prevented. The threshold value X is, for example, a lower limit voltage value of the electrical storage device 110. The threshold value X can be a value for switching between CD and CS operating modes. Upon receiving the request, the user determines, by operating the communication terminal 900, whether the generation of electrical power using the motive power of the machine 160 should be permitted or prevented.

[0066] The communication device 170 receives information from the communication terminal 900 regarding whether the generation of electrical power using the drive force of the machine 160 is to be permitted or prevented, as determined by the user, and transmits the information to the ECU 300. If the user permits the generation of electrical power using the drive force of the machine 160, the ECU 300 starts the generation of electrical power by starting the machine 160. Conversely, if the user does not permit the generation of electrical power using the drive force of the machine 160, the ECU 300 stops the supply of electrical power to the external electrical device without starting the machine 160 when the state of charge (SOC) of the electrical storage device 110 reaches its lower limit.

[0067] At time t2, when the SOC exceeds a setpoint A as a result of the generation of electrical power, the ECU 300 stops the operation of the machine 160.

[0068] Fig. Figure 6 shows a flowchart to illustrate a process relating to the power supply control of the ECU 300 according to Fig. 4. S200 to S400 are similar to those according to the first embodiment, so their description will not be repeated.

[0069] As it is in Fig. As shown in Figure 6, the ECU 300 determines in S110 whether the state of charge (SOC) of the electrical storage device 110 is lower than the threshold value X. If the SOC of the electrical storage device 110 is lower than the threshold value X (YES in S110), the ECU 300 controls the communication device 170 such that a signal is sent to the communication terminal 900 (S112) requesting a selection as to whether the generation of electrical power by using the driving force of the machine 160 is to be allowed or prevented.

[0070] Subsequently, in S114, the ECU 300 determines, based on the signal received by the communication device 170, whether the user permits the generation of electrical power by using the drive force of the machine 160. If the user permits the generation of electrical power by using the drive force of the machine 160 (YES in S114), the process proceeds to S200. If, on the other hand, the user does not permit the generation of electrical power by using the drive force of the machine 160 (NO in S114), the process proceeds to S300.

[0071] If the SOC of the electrical storage device 110 is not lower than the threshold X (NO in S110), the process proceeds to S300.

[0072] As described above, according to this second embodiment, the generation of electrical power by using the drive force of the machine 160 is enabled or disabled based on the operation of the communication terminal 900 carried by the user. Thus, the user is allowed to select the operation or the stop of the machine 160, even if the user is located at a distance from the vehicle 100A.

[0073] According to this second embodiment, when the SOC falls below the threshold value X, the user is prompted to select whether to allow or prevent the generation of electrical power by using the drive force of the machine 160. Thus, before starting the machine 160, the user is allowed to select whether to operate or stop the machine 160.

[0074] According to this second embodiment, the prompt described above can be provided to the user not by the communication device 170, but by a buzzer, a light, or the like provided in the vehicle 100A. In this case, the user selects whether to operate or stop the machine by using a button, a control screen of a navigation system, or the like provided in the vehicle 100A.

[0075] According to this second embodiment, the communication device 170 can be configured to communicate with a power receiver that receives electrical power from the vehicle 100A instead of with the communication terminal 900. In this case, the user is allowed to select, by operating the power receiver, whether to permit or prevent the generation of electrical power by using the driving force of the machine 160. The power receiver is used, for example, to form a home energy management system (HEMS). Communication between the communication device 170 and the power receiver is not limited to wireless communication and can be wired communication. Third example

[0076] According to the second embodiment, the user must operate their personal communication device every time the vehicle's communication system prompts them to do so. However, the user may not be able to operate their communication device promptly when the vehicle's communication system prompts them to do so.

[0077] According to the third embodiment, a configuration is described in which a user is allowed to preset a suppression period during which the generation of electrical power by using the driving force of the machine is prevented, and any operation by the user is suppressed.

[0078] Fig. Figure 7 shows a time history diagram showing the operating state of the machine with respect to a change in the SOC of the electrical storage device 110 according to the third embodiment of the invention.

[0079] As it is in Fig. As shown in Figure 7, the user pre-sets a time period between time t10 and time t11 and a time period between time t12 and time t13 as a suppression period in the ECU 300. The suppression period is set, for example, using the communication device carried by the user, the operating screen of the navigation system, or similar devices.

[0080] At time t10, the ECU 300 starts supplying electrical power from the electrical storage device 110 to the external electrical device. When the interruption period ends at time t11, the ECU 300 starts generating electrical power by starting the machine 160.

[0081] When the shutdown period begins at time t12, the ECU 300 stops the operation of machine 160. If a shutdown period is set, the ECU 300 sets the setpoint of the state of charge (SOC) to a setpoint B. If, on the other hand, no shutdown period is set, the ECU 300 sets the setpoint of the SOC to a setpoint C. Setpoint B is a value that is higher than setpoint C. In this way, by setting the setpoint SOC such that it is high when a shutdown period is set, it is possible to ensure the amount of electrical power that can be discharged from the electrical storage device 110 during the shutdown period.

[0082] Fig. Figure 8 shows a flowchart illustrating a process relating to power supply control of the ECU 300 according to the third embodiment of the invention. S200 to S400 are similar to those according to the first embodiment, so their description will not be repeated.

[0083] As it is in Fig. As shown in Figure 8, the ECU 300 in S120 sets the suppression time duration based on input from the user.

[0084] Subsequently, ECU 300 determines in S122 whether the current time is included in the suppression duration. If the current time is not included in the suppression duration (NO in S122), the process proceeds to S200. Conversely, if the current time is included in the suppression duration (YES in S122), the process proceeds to S300.

[0085] As described above, this third embodiment allows the user to preset the inhibition time. This makes it possible to automatically switch between operation and stop of machine 160 according to the inhibition time set by the user.

[0086] According to this third embodiment, the setpoint B, in the case where the interruption time is set, is adjusted such that it is higher than the setpoint C in the case where no interruption time is set. Thus, it is possible to ensure the magnitude of the electrical power supplied by the electrical storage device 110 during the interruption time.

[0087] According to this third embodiment, the following configuration can be applied. This means that the generation of electrical power using the driving force of the machine 160 is initiated in response to the fact that the state of charge (SOC) of the electrical storage device 110 falls below a threshold Y. This threshold Y1, when a shutdown time is set, is configured to be higher than a threshold Y2 when no shutdown time is set. In this case, it is also possible to ensure the amount of electrical power supplied from the electrical storage device 110 during the shutdown time.

[0088] According to the third embodiment, the following alternative embodiment can be used as a specific method for ensuring the state of charge (SOC). For example, according to a first alternative embodiment of the third embodiment, when the shutdown period is set, the generation of electrical power is carried out by using the drive force of the machine 160 before the start of the shutdown period. In this case, it is also possible to ensure the magnitude of the electrical power supplied from the electrical storage device 110 during the shutdown period.

[0089] According to a second alternative embodiment of the third embodiment, the electrical power generated when the interruption time is set is configured to be greater than the electrical power generated when no interruption time is set. In this case, since the state of charge (SOC) rises rapidly as a result of the electrical power generation, even if the duration other than the interruption time is short, it is possible to ensure the magnitude of electrical power supplied from the electrical storage device 110 during the interruption time.

[0090] According to a third alternative embodiment of the third embodiment, instead of the interruption period, the user is permitted to preset a period during which the setpoint value of the state of charge (SOC) of the electrical storage device 110 is increased. In this case, the user is permitted to maintain the SOC by generating electrical power using the drive force of the machine 160 for a period during which the operation of the machine 160 is permitted.

[0091] According to a fourth alternative embodiment of the third embodiment, the generation of electrical power by using the driving force of the machine 160 can be initiated in response to the fact that the state of charge (SOC) of the electrical storage device 110 falls below a predetermined value. Instead of a suppression period, a period during which the predetermined value is increased can be preset by the user. In this case, the user is also permitted to maintain the SOC by generating electrical power using the driving force of the machine 160 for a period during which the operation of the machine 160 is permitted.

[0092] According to a fifth alternative embodiment of the third embodiment, instead of the interruption period, a period during which the generation of electrical power by using the driving force of the machine 160 is carried out irrespective of the state of charge (SOC) of the electrical storage device 110 can be preset by the user. In this case, the user is also permitted to maintain the SOC by generating electrical power using the driving force of the machine 160 for a period during which the operation of the machine 160 is permitted. Fourth embodiment

[0093] According to a fourth embodiment, a configuration is described in which, based on a selection made by the user and a result of a determination such as a preset determination condition, it is set whether the generation of electrical power by using the driving force of the machine is to be allowed or prevented.

[0094] Fig. Figure 9 shows a flowchart illustrating a process relating to power supply control of the ECU 300 according to the fourth embodiment of the invention. S200 to S400 are similar to those according to the first embodiment, so their description is not repeated.

[0095] As it is in Fig. As shown in Figure 9, the ECU 300 in S130 determines, based on the preset operating condition, whether the generation of electrical power by using the machine is permitted. The preset operating condition is based on information acquired by the vehicle and includes one operating condition that the user is allowed to set and one that the user is not. For example, the operating condition that the user is allowed to set is based on information regarding the electrical charge. The operating condition that the user is not allowed to set includes the vehicle's state, the region in which the vehicle is traveling, and / or the environment in which the vehicle is located.The vehicle's condition, for example, could be a situation where a machine cooling temperature exceeds a certain upper limit. The region in which the vehicle is traveling could indicate, for example, that the position obtained from GPS navigation information or similar falls within a predetermined range. The vehicle's environment could be, for example, a situation where the vehicle is in an indoor garage without exhaust extraction equipment, or where flammable material is present around the vehicle, or similar conditions.

[0096] If the generation of electrical power through the use of the machine is permitted (YES in S130), the process proceeds to S132. If, on the other hand, the generation of electrical power through the use of the machine is not permitted (NO in S130), the process proceeds to S300.

[0097] In S132, the ECU 300 determines whether the user's selection permits the generation of electrical power by using the machine. The user makes a selection, for example, by using switch 180 or communication terminal 900. If the user's selection permits the generation of electrical power by using the machine (YES in S132), the process proceeds to S200. Conversely, if the user's selection does not permit the generation of electrical power by using the machine (NO in S132), the process proceeds to S300.

[0098] As described above, according to this fourth embodiment, if the user's selection deviates from the result of the determination with respect to the preset determination condition, the ECU 300 determines whether the generation of electrical power using the machine's drive force is to be permitted or prevented by assigning a higher priority to the result of the determination. Thus, it is possible to ensure safety even if the user has made an erroneous operation. Alternative example

[0099] According to an alternative embodiment of the fourth embodiment, as well as according to the fourth embodiment, the system determines whether the generation of electrical power by using the machine's drive force is to be permitted or prevented, based on the user's selection and the result of the determination with respect to the preset determination condition. Additionally, according to the alternative embodiment of the fourth embodiment, if the user's selection differs from the result of the determination with respect to the preset determination condition, information is provided to the user to prompt them to confirm their selection.

[0100] Fig. Figure 10 shows a flowchart illustrating a process relating to the power supply control of the ECU 300 according to the alternative embodiment of the fourth embodiment of the invention. S130 and S200 to S400 are similar to those according to the fourth embodiment, so their description will not be repeated.

[0101] As it is in Fig. As shown in Figure 10, the ECU 300 determines in S134 whether the user's selection permits the generation of electrical power by using the machine. The user makes this selection, for example, by using switch 180 or the communication terminal. If the user's selection permits the generation of electrical power by using the machine (YES in S134), the process proceeds to S200. Conversely, if the user's selection does not permit the generation of electrical power by using the machine (NO in S134), the process proceeds to S136.

[0102] In S136, the ECU 300 provides the user with a notification that the selection made by the user differs from the result of the determination with regard to the preset determination condition.

[0103] Subsequently, when ECU 300 receives a user-selected choice in S138, it determines whether this choice permits the generation of electrical power by using the machine. If the user-selected choice permits the generation of electrical power by using the machine (YES in S138), the process proceeds to S200. Conversely, if the user-selected choice does not permit the generation of electrical power by using the machine (NO in S138), the process proceeds to S300.

[0104] As described above, according to this alternative embodiment of the fourth embodiment, if the selection made by the user deviates from the result of the determination with respect to the preset determination condition, the ECU 300 provides the user with information prompting them to confirm their selection. Thus, as in the case of the fourth embodiment, it is possible to ensure safety even if the user has made an erroneous operation. Fifth embodiment

[0105] In a fifth embodiment, a configuration is described that allows the user to set the SOC at which the machine starts.

[0106] Fig. Figure 11 shows a time-series diagram illustrating the operating state of the machine with respect to a change in the state of charge (SOC) of the electrical storage device 110 according to the fifth embodiment of the invention. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 11, the user pre-sets a threshold value Z in the ECU 300. This threshold value Z is used to initiate the generation of electrical power by utilizing the drive force of the machine 160. The threshold value Z is set, for example, using the communication device carried by the user, the navigation system's control screen, or similar devices. If, as a result, the electrical power supplied from the vehicle 100 to the external electrical device falls below the threshold value Z at time t20, the ECU 300 initiates the generation of electrical power by starting the machine 160.

[0107] If, as a result of the generation of electrical power, the SOC exceeds a setpoint D at time t21, the ECU 300 stops the operation of machine 160.

[0108] Fig. Figure 12 shows a flowchart illustrating a process relating to the power supply control of the ECU 300 according to the fifth embodiment of the invention. S200 to S400 are similar to those according to the first embodiment, so the description will not be repeated.

[0109] As it is in Fig. As shown in Figure 12, the ECU 300 in S140 sets the threshold Z based on input from the user.

[0110] Subsequently, ECU 300 determines in S142 whether the SOC is lower than the threshold Z. If the SOC is lower than the threshold Z (YES in S142), the process transitions to S200. Conversely, if the SOC is not lower than the threshold Z (NO in S142), the process transitions to S300.

[0111] As described above, this fifth embodiment allows the user to set the state of charge (SOC) at which the machine starts. By increasing the SOC at which the machine starts, it is possible to maintain a high SOC even when electrical power is being supplied to the external electrical device. This ensures that even after the supply of electrical power to the external electrical device has ceased, sufficient electrical power is available to perform an EV drive.

[0112] In the foregoing description, the motor generators 130 and 135 each correspond to an embodiment of an "electric motor" according to the invention, and the switch 180 corresponds to an embodiment of an "operating unit" according to the invention. The CD operating mode corresponds to an embodiment of a "first drive operating mode" according to the invention. The CS operating mode corresponds to an embodiment of a "second drive operating mode" according to the invention. DESCRIPTION OF REFERENCE MARKS

[0113] 100, 100A vehicle, 110 electrical storage device, 120 PCU, 121 converter, 122, 123 inverter, 130, 135 motor generator, 140 power transmission gearbox, 150 drive wheel, 160 machine, 170 communication device, 175 antenna, 180 switch, 200 charging device, 210, 260 relay, 220 inlet, 250 electrical power converter, 270 socket, 500 external power supply, 510 plug, 900 communication terminal

Claims

Vehicle characterized by a machine (160); an electric motor (130, 135) configured to generate electrical power by using the motive power of the machine (160); an electrical storage device (110); and a control device (300) configured to control the supply of electrical power, which is a first and / or a second electrical power, to the outside of the vehicle, wherein the first electrical power is electrical power generated by the electric motor (130, 135) and the second electrical power is electrical power stored in the electrical storage device (110), and to select, based on a setting made by a user, whether to allow or prevent the generation of electrical power by using the motive power of the machine (160), wherein the vehicle further comprises an operating unit (180) configured toto be operated by the user to select whether the generation of electrical power by using the drive force of the machine (160) is to be permitted or prevented, wherein the control device (300) is configured to set, based on a state of the operating unit (180), whether the generation of electrical power by using the drive force of the machine (160) is to be permitted or prevented, wherein the vehicle is configured to be operated while switching between a first operating mode and a second operating mode, wherein the first operating mode is an operating mode in which the vehicle preferably drives by using only the electric motor (130, 135) while the machine (160) is stopped, and the second operating mode is an operating mode in which the vehicle maintains a state variable of the electrical storage device at a predetermined setpoint by operating the machine (160).wherein the state variable is a quantity indicating a state of charge of the electrical storage device (110), the operating unit (180) is a switch operated by the user to select the first operating mode or the second operating mode, and the control device (300) is configured, when the second operating mode is selected for the supply of electrical power outside the vehicle, to allow the generation of electrical power by using the motive power of the machine (160), wherein the control device (300) is further configured to allow the user to preset a period of time during which the generation of electrical power by using the motive power of the machine (160) is prevented, and the control device (300) is configured to control a state of charge of the electrical storage device (110) such thatthat a state variable of the electrical storage device (110) assumes a setpoint, wherein, when the time duration is set, the setpoint is set before the start of the time duration, and the setpoint at the time when the time duration is set is set such that it is higher than the setpoint at the time when the time duration is not set. Vehicle according to claim 1, characterized in that the control unit (180) is a switch by which an operating mode of the vehicle is selected by operation by the user. Vehicle according to claim 1, characterized in that the control device (300) is configured, when the first operating mode is selected for supplying electrical power to outside the vehicle, to prevent the generation of electrical power by using the driving force of the machine (160). Vehicle according to claim 1, further characterized by a communication device (170) configured to send a signal, wherein the signal is a signal to request selection as to whether the generation of electrical power by using the driving force of the machine (160) is to be permitted or prevented, and to receive first information, wherein the first information is information determined by the user regarding whether the generation of electrical power by using the driving force of the machine (160) is to be permitted or prevented, and the control device (300) is configured to adjust, on the basis of the first information, whether the generation of electrical power by using the driving force of the machine (160) is to be permitted or prevented. Vehicle according to claim 4, characterized in that the communication device (170) is configured to communicate with a communication terminal carried by the user, the communication device (170) is configured to send the signal to the communication terminal, the communication device (170) is configured to receive the first information from the communication terminal, wherein the first information is information determined by the user. Vehicle according to claim 4, characterized in that the communication device (170) is configured to send the signal to a communication terminal device when the charge level of the electrical storage device (110) falls below a threshold. Vehicle according to claim 4, characterized in that the communication device (170) is configured to communicate with a power receiving device, wherein the power receiving device is configured to receive electrical power from the vehicle, wherein the communication device (170) is configured to send the signal to the power receiving device, and the communication device (170) is configured to receive the first information from the power receiving device, wherein the first information is information that is determined by the user. Vehicle according to claim 7, characterized in that the communication device (170) is configured to send the signal to the power receiving device when the charge level of the electrical storage device (110) falls below a threshold value. Vehicle according to claim 1, characterized in that the control device (300) is configured to control a state of charge of the electrical storage device (110) such that a state variable of the electrical storage device (110) assumes a setpoint value, wherein the state variable is a quantity that indicates the state of charge of the electrical storage device (110), and a time period during which the setpoint value is increased is preset by the user. Vehicle according to claim 1, characterized in that the control device (300) is configured to start the generation of electrical power by using the driving force of the machine (160) in response to the fact that a charge level of the electrical storage device (110) becomes lower than a predetermined value, and a duration during which the predetermined value is increased is preset by the user. Vehicle according to claim 1, characterized in that the control device (300) is configured to allow the user to preset a time period during which the generation of electrical power using the driving force of the machine (160) is carried out regardless of the charge level of the electrical storage device (110). Vehicle according to claim 1, characterized in that the control device (300) is configured to start the generation of electrical power by using the driving force of the machine (160) in response to the fact that a charge state of the electrical storage device (110) becomes lower than a threshold value, and the threshold value at the time when the time duration is set is set such that it is higher than the threshold value at the time when the time duration is not set. Vehicle according to claim 1, characterized in that the control device (300) is configured, when the time period is set, to generate electrical power by using the driving force of the machine (160) before the start of the time period. Vehicle according to claim 1, characterized in that the control device (300) is configured to determine, on the basis of a preset determination condition, whether the generation of electrical power by using the driving force of the machine (160) is to be permitted or prevented, and, if a selection made by the user differs from the result of the determination, to set whether the generation of electrical power by using the driving force of the machine (160) is to be permitted or prevented by assigning a higher priority to the result of the determination, wherein the selection is a selection by the user as to whether the generation of electrical power by using the driving force of the machine (160) is to be permitted or prevented. Vehicle according to claim 1, characterized in that the control device (300) is configured to determine, on the basis of a preset determination condition, whether the generation of electrical power by using the driving force of the machine (160) is to be permitted or prevented, and, if a selection made by the user deviates from a result of the determination, to provide the user with second information, wherein the second information is information that prompts a confirmation of the selection made by the user, wherein the selection is a selection by the user as to whether the generation of electrical power by using the driving force of the machine (160) is to be permitted or prevented. Vehicle according to claim 14 or 15, characterized in that the determining condition comprises a determining condition that is set by the user and a determining condition that is not set by the user. Vehicle according to claim 16, characterized in that the determining condition, which is not set by the user, comprises a state of the vehicle, a region in which the vehicle is driving, and / or an environment in which the vehicle is located. Vehicle according to claim 1, characterized in that the control device (300) is configured to start the generation of electrical power by using the driving force of the machine (160) in response to the fact that a charge level of the electrical storage device (110) becomes lower than a threshold set by the user. Control method for a vehicle, wherein the vehicle comprises a machine (160), an electric motor (130, 135), an electrical storage device (110), and a control device (300), wherein the electric motor (130, 135) is configured to generate electrical power by using motive power from the machine (160), the control method being characterized by: controlling, by the control device (300), a supply of electrical power, which is a first electrical power and / or a second electrical power, to the outside of the vehicle, wherein the first electrical power is electrical power generated by the electric motor (130, 135), and the second electrical power is electrical power stored in the electrical storage device (110); and selecting, by the control device (300), based on a setting performed by a user,whether the generation of electrical power by using the motive power of the machine (160) is to be permitted or prevented, wherein the vehicle further comprises an operating unit (180) configured to be operated by the user to select whether the generation of electrical power by using the motive power of the machine (160) is to be permitted or prevented, wherein the control method further comprises: setting, based on a state of the operating unit (180), whether the generation of electrical power by using the motive power of the machine (160) is to be permitted or prevented, wherein the vehicle is configured to be operated while switching between a first operating mode and a second operating mode, wherein the first operating mode is an operating mode in which the vehicle preferably drives by using only the electric motor (130, 135) while the machine (160) is stopped,The second operating mode is an operating mode in which the vehicle maintains a state variable of the electrical storage device at a predetermined setpoint by operating the machine (160), wherein the state variable is a quantity indicating a state of charge of the electrical storage device (110), the control unit (180) is a switch that is operated by the user to select the first operating mode or the second operating mode, and the control method further comprises: allowing the generation of electrical power by using the motive power of the machine (160) when the second operating mode is selected for the supply of electrical power outside the vehicle, wherein the control method further comprises: allowing the user to preset a time period during which the generation of electrical power by using the motive power of the machine (160) is prevented.and controlling a state of charge of the electrical storage device (110) such that a state variable of the electrical storage device (110) assumes a setpoint, wherein, if the time duration is set, the setpoint is set before the start of the time duration, and the setpoint at the time when the time duration is set is set such that it is higher than the setpoint at the time when the time duration is not set.

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